The UK is a great place to visit in December because of its cold climate and several Christmas-themed events. Wintertime in the UK can be enchanting, with picturesque scenery, lively events, and welcoming pubs where you can warm up with a hot beverage or savor a delectable meal after a day of exploring the country. Learn more about traveling to UK in December.
December Weather in the United Kingdom
The temperature in early December fluctuates between 4 and 9 degrees Celsius. In the latter half of the month, it declines. London in December experiences eight hours of daylight. Snowfall is uncommon, with fewer than two snowy days on average.
- Average High – 9 degrees Celsius
- Average low – 3 degrees Celsius
- Rainfall – Light to moderate
Things to Do in the UK in December
Here are some top things to do in the UK in December.
- Go for a stroll to one of the national parks in England.
- Shop during the sales on Boxing Day.
- Explore the Must See Christmas Light Trails in UK.
- Watch a pantomime lady portray your favourite holiday figure. Pantomimes are performed in theatres, from little village halls to the West End in London.
- Have fun engaging in ice skating at Hyde Park in Leeds, Platt Fields Park in Manchester, or Somerset House in London.
- Shop for regional foods, crafts, and presents for loved ones at some of the Christmas Markets in Edinburgh.
- Take a trip to the most joyous capital city on earth, where Christmas lights adorn every corner. Explore Oxford Street on an afternoon or appreciate the department shop window decorations.
- Attend a carol service or participate in singing.
- Try hot chocolate or mulled wine with homemade mince pies.
- Take a seat by an open fire in a cozy bar.
- Visit one of the warmer places in UK in December to attend the New Years Eve celebration.
Places to Visit in UK in December
1) Edinburgh
Edinburgh is one of the best places to visit in UK in December. A spectacular light show featuring over a thousand fairy lights turned on for the Festival of Lights takes place at Princes Street Gardens. Beautiful wreaths and garlands cover the streets. The city centre is closed to traffic for Hogmanay, a massive street festival on December 31.
2) London
The Tower of London, Kensington Palace, the Natural History Museum, ZSL London Zoo, and Kew Gardens are among the winter attractions in the UK capital. There are also a lot of events like the festive Christmas Day Parade and Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park. The famous Oxford Street features a magnificent display of over eighty thousand Christmas lights. See a show, reserve an afternoon tea, or engage in some shopping therapy at some of the most renowned stores in London. These are some of the most well-liked things to do in London in December.
3) Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands attract many tourists in the winter. The region is a haven for nature lovers, with breathtaking mountain views, lochs, glens, and moorland, ideal for leisurely bike rides or treks. Visitors to Cairngorms National Park can experience snow. The Scottish Highlands is an ideal location to see the northern lights in the winter.
4) York
Tourists visiting York can see the Jorvik Viking Centre, York Minister, Shambles, cobbled lanes, and stunning medieval structures. There is an amazing schedule of events and activities, such as the well-known Christmas Market in Shambles. It features over two hundred stalls selling food, beverages, handicrafts, and festive gifts. Entertainment options and kid-friendly rides make it enjoyable for the entire family.
5) The Lake District
William Wordsworth has immortalized the Lake District in his poetry. Famous writers including Beatrix Potter and Arthur Ransome have visited the area. Beautiful walk and bike trails and fantastic pubs for winter evenings can all be found in the Lake District. Another way for visitors to experience the region is by boat on one of its many lakes. They can taste classic English ales at one of the top breweries in the nation.
6) Bath
Bath is one of the most romantic places to visit in UK in winter. Bath is a Roman spa city constructed on naturally occurring hot springs that erupted up from the earth. Visitors can also take a dip in the warm springs today. The Jane Austen Center, the Fashion Museum, and the Royal Crescent are open to visitors in the winter.
7) Belfast
Northern Ireland boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United Kingdom. The Christmas boat parade on the River Lagan, ice skating in City Hall Square, and a firework show at Titanic Slipways are a few of the festivities to enjoy. Belfast hosts a wide range of activities throughout the winter, including live performances, food festivals, markets, and cultural and theatrical events.
Festivals and Events in the UK in December
1) Costa Winter Festival
Enjoy delectable food and beverages, excellent service from our on-site staff, lively live music from our amazing lineup, and lots of new friendships formed. The 2025 lineup features Winter Wilson, Jim Causley and Miranda Sykes, Joe Broughton’s Conservatoire Folk Ensemble, A Winter Union, The Demon Barbers, and St Agnes Foundation. Christmas sing-alongs, workshops, dancing, mulled wine, Christmas jumpers, Secret Santa, a themed Christmas Party Night, and much more are all part of the event.
Location – Alvaston Hall, Crewe, EN
Date – Starts 1 December 2025 to 5 December 2025
Time – 1.30 pm
Ticket Price – NA
2) Hyde Park Winter Wonderland 2025
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is back for 2025, promising a festive extravaganza of holiday cheer, family fun, and magical attractions. It features an ice rink, roller coaster rides, live music, and mouthwatering street food. Bring the kids to Santaland to see classic fairground attractions including the Santaland Express train, a carousel, and vintage games. This annual event has become a must-visit holiday destination, drawing both locals and tourists eager to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit.
Location – Hyde Park, London
Date – November 2025 to January 2026 (Exact dates to be confirmed)
Time – 10 am to 10 pm
Ticket Price – Free
3) Christmas at Kew
Follow a specifically designated trail that is roughly 3 kilometres long. The palm house and fire garden will be illuminated with projections, light tunnels, and gigantic illuminations. Youngsters may enjoy the Victorian fairground, toast marshmallows over a fire with a hot cup of cocoa, and see Santa and his elves at North Pole Village.
Location – Royal Botanic Kew, London
Date – 14 November 2025 to 04 January 2026
Time – 4.20 pm to 10 pm
Ticket Price – Starting from £ 54
4) National Robin Day
National Robin Day was established by the nonprofit organization Songbird Survival and is observed annually on December 21. Raising awareness of the difficulties that birds, including robins, and other wildlife encounter during the chilly winter months is the primary goal of National Robin Day.We can learn more about how to help birds and other species endure the harsh winter weather in the UK thanks to National Robin Day.
Location – Countrywide
Date – 21 December 2025
Timing – Anytime
Ticket Price – Free
5) Edinburgh Hogamay Festival 2025
Thousands of people travel from all over the world to Edinburgh to take in the distinctive ambiance during its renowned Hogmanay events. It began as a casual get-together on the Royal Mile to hear the Tron Kirk’s bells ring in the New Year, but it has since grown into a free street celebration that also includes Princes Street. You can participate in the customary Torchlight Procession, which turns the Old Town into a river of fire.
Location – Edinburgh, Scotland
Date – 29 December 2025 to 1 January 2026
Timing – The concert starts at 8.50 pm and ends at 12.45 am.
Ticket Price – Tickets for a torch and entry are priced at £18, plus a £2 booking fee. A ticket without a torch will cost £6.50 plus a £1 booking fee.
Travel Advice for December Visits to the UK
Consider these travel suggestions for your trip to the UK in December.
- Bring a winter coat, waterproof jacket, gloves, scarf, walking boots, long-sleeved shirts, jeans, and warm sweaters.
- December is a well-liked month for travel for the Christmas and New Year holidays. To prevent disappointment, reserve lodging, tickets, and activities in advance.
- The public transit system in the UK is well-established and effective. For easy city navigation, take the London Tube, buses, and trains. Services may be limited on Christmas Day.
- Schedule outdoor activities during the morning or early afternoon. Revel in the seasonal lights and indoor attractions.
- Many attractions can close or have shortened hours around Christmas and New Year. Be sure to check in advance and make plans appropriately.
Things to Consider Before Traveling to the UK in December
Here are some more tips for a hassle-free December vacation in the UK.
- Keep cash on hand for shopping at small stores and markets.
- Carry an adapter because the UK uses a three-pin plug.
- Tipping in restaurants is appreciated. It is expected to tip between 10 and 15 per cent of the total bill.
- Christmas Day and Boxing Day are official holidays. There will be closures and limited public transportation.
December is a great month to visit the United Kingdom. For a memorable winter travel, remember to plan well in advance, pack for the weather, and embrace the Christmas spirit. Stay informed about recent UK visa changes to ensure a smooth travel experience if you are planning to visit the UK in December.
Discover the UK Through the Year
FAQs for the UK in December
1) Which activities are the most popular in the UK in December?
Visit Christmas markets in places like Bath, Edinburgh, and London. Go ice skating at famous venues like Somerset House in London. Visit ancient cathedrals for carol services and seasonal concerts. Eat at British eateries and pubs. Hike in the Lake District during the winter or take a train ride across snowy terrain.
2) Are UK stores and attractions open on Christmas Day?
The UK closes on Christmas Day with almost all restaurants, stores, and attractions closed. There is also very limited public transportation.
3) Which UK destinations are a must-see for visitors in December?
Many locations in the UK provide unforgettable experiences in December. London, Edinburgh, York, Lake District, and Bath are popular places to go for Christmas and New Year.
4) What are the traditional foods to taste in the UK during December?
Traditional British cuisine is best enjoyed around December. Festive foods to try across the UK include gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, Christmas pudding, Yorkshire pudding, mince pies, and turkey.
5) Is the UK overcrowded in December?
The non-peak months for travel to the UK are November to April. A large number of tourists visit London and Edinburgh, in December and early January.