Whether you dream of strolling through charming streets adorned with twinkling lights or immersing yourself in the wonder of interactive light festivals. The UK offers an array of enchanting destinations to make your Christmas truly magical. From historic cities aglow with festive displays to hidden gems that sparkle with seasonal charm, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Bundle up in your cosiest scarf, grab a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate. Prepare to be dazzled by the breathtaking displays that illuminate the festive season when witnessing the the Winter lights and Christmas Illuminations of 2024. Here are just a few of our favourite places that promise to make your holiday season unforgettable.
The Best Places to See Winter Lights and Christmas Illuminations in 2024
Enlightened – Castle Park Christmas Lights
Head to Colchester to enjoy a magical light trail in the grounds of Colchester Castle Park. Taking a stroll through the Castle Park grounds will be the perfect way to kick off your Christmas celebrations this December. With enchanting illuminations in such a beautiful setting, it will be perfect for couples and families alike.
Where to stay?
Gladwins Farm is located approximately 20 minutes from Colchester Castle Park, so whether you are a couple, small family or looking to stay as a group, there are multiple lodges to choose between. And with great facilities on site including coffee hut to keep warm whilst petting the animals on site. Don’t forget to pack your costume and trainers, there is a tennis court and heated indoor pool if you fancy staying active!
Gladwins Farm, Suffolk
Sleeps 2 – 16 | Hot tub | Farm stay | Accessible break | From £250 per night
Edinburgh’s Light Trail
Edinburgh’s Christmas market, located in East Princes Street Gardens, is a must-see, with beautifully lit trees and festive stalls. For a truly magical experience, check out the “Edinburgh’s Christmas Light Trail” which winds through the Royal Botanic Garden and features stunning light installations.
Where to stay?
We recommend staying at the Stylish Rock & Castle Escape, just 45 minutes from the city of Edinburgh, here you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Enjoy going into the city for a day and viewing the spectacular Christmas markets and light trail before heading back into the countryside.
Rock & Castle Escapes, East Lothian
Sleeps 2 | Coastal | Romantic escape | From £125 per night
Rock & Castle Escapes – Take me there
Christmas Light Trail at Dunham Massey
New for 2024, The National Trust house and grounds of Dunham Massey will be filled with festive cheer. With new light installations throughout the grounds, this ticketed event will be sure to put your family into the Christmas spirit. Enjoy twinkling light tunnels, glittering display of lights across the lake and a glimpse of Father Christmas himself!
Where to stay?
Head to New Farm Glamping for a cosy romantic pre-Christmas break, with a bubbling hot tub overlooking the lake this glamping retreat will recharge your batteries before the big day!
New Farm Glamping, Cheshire
Sleeps 2 | Hot tub | Lakeside views | From £165 per night
New Farm Glamping – Take me there
Christmas at Bute Park, Cardiff
Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland is a family favourite, with ice skating, fairground rides, and charming light displays. The city’s main shopping streets are also lined with glowing festive decorations, creating a bright and cheerful atmosphere. But don’t forget to visit Christmas at Bute Park, with 15 zones of amazing illuminations this Welsh light show will be one to remember for years to come.
Where to stay?
The Celtic Manor Farmhouse is ideally located just of the M4 and only 30 minutes from Cardiff. The Farmhouse is a spacious place, perfect for large families or friends to gather and even better you can make use of the fabulous facilities on the Celtic Manor site including luxury spa and golf course.
Celtic Manor Farmhouse, Gwent
Sleeps 8 | Family friendly | Access to spa & golf course | From £364 per night
Celtic Manor Farmhouse – Take me there
Festival of Light at Longleat, Wiltshire
Head to Wiltshire where Longleat is celebrating 10 years of their iconic lantern event. Expect spectacular colours and illuminations as you quite literally ‘journey through time’ as they showcase the evolution of the earth starting from the age of dinosaurs to the present day.
Where to stay?
Slumber down at the Korkhouse which is just under 30 minutes from Longleat house. Korkhouse is an off-grid romantic retreat. Specifically, located to explore quaint villages and town with plenty delicious places to eat to choose from. Furthermore, head back to your little retreat for a cosy place to rest within a secluded woodland which would no doubt become a wintery oasis with a touch of frost.
Korkhouse, Dorset
Sleeps 2 | Romantic | Idyllic setting | From £130 per night
York’s Winter Lights
Head to York to view their Winter Lights and simply enjoy the city’s welcoming ambiance of warm festive lights, brightening up the streets during the winter months. Set to switched on during the Saint Nicholas Christmas Fair, York will become a glow. Therefore, if you don’t fancy heading to an illuminated event, visit York and enjoy the twinkling lights lining the streets to bring you Christmas cheer as you shop.
Where to stay?
Rufus’s Roost at Baxby Manor is a cosy and welcoming treehouse found in North Yorkshire. The treehouse sleeps up to 6 so perfect for a gathering of friends or a pre Christmas treat for the family. Importantly, enjoy a warm bubbling hot tub overlooking the surrounding countryside.
Rufus’s Roost Treehouse at Baxby Manor, North Yorkshire
Photo credit: Jack Boothby
Sleeps 6 | Hot tub | Wood burner | Family friendly | From £295 per night
This is our roundup of some of the UK’s best destinations for Winter Lights and Christmas Illuminations 2024 displays, from magical trails at Longleat and Castle Park to festive markets in York and Edinburgh. These enchanting experiences are complemented by cosy accommodation recommendations nearby. As winter transforms the UK into a wonderland of lights and festive cheer, there’s no better time to explore these incredible destinations. Whether you’re seeking family fun or a romantic getaway, these illuminated experiences will add sparkle to your holiday season. So, wrap up, step into the magic, and make lasting memories this Christmas!
