UK city named best to visit this winter with ‘must-see’ Christmas market – see full list

Christmas is soon approaching and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit by booking a last-minute . Never mind a somewhere hot, travellers who want to embrace the chilly weather, there are plenty of great spots in the UK that are even more beautiful this time of year.

UK holiday experts have analysed the best UK towns and cities for a winter break.

The study examined hotel prices, average snowfall during winter, affordability of local restaurants, popularity according to seasonal posts, and Google searches for people inquiring about visiting the location during the winter.

Each factor was assigned a score out of 10, with zero being the worst for winter breaks and 10 being the best. Then, an overall index score out of 100 was calculated to produce a ranking of the areas.

Charlie Howes, director at Hot Tub Breaks said: “While it may be tempting to escape the cold weather and book a last-minute trip abroad, it can be costly or require too much time off work for many people – and most of us want to be close to home with loved ones during the holiday.

“There are many magnificent towns and cities to choose from, and you are likely to have a wonderful time with friends or family wherever you go.”

The best UK winter breaks and total index score out of 100:

Snow over the Sheffield city center and Town Hall

10. Sheffield – 54.50

Sheffield followed in tenth, with an index score of 54.5 out of 100. Sheffield is an excellent base for Brits wanting to celebrate in a welcoming city while venturing out to nearby attractions. Chatsworth House is just a few miles away and provides a relaxed, cosy day out.

(Image: Getty)

York outdoor Christmas Market with crowds of people and shoppers

9. York – 55.21

Placing ninth was York, with an index score of 55.21 out of 100. If you opt to visit York, you could enjoy some candlelit carols at York Minster or venture down the beloved cobbled streets, which are even more magical at Christmas.

(Image: Getty)

Streetlamp and Christmas tree in the background

8. Aberdeen – 56.96

Ranking eighth was Aberdeen, with an overall index score of 56.96 out of 100. The Aberdeen Christmas Village offers everything tourists and residents alike could need over Christmas, plus the newly introduced Christmas Light-up trail is an exquisite way to explore the city.

(Image: Getty)

Liverpool, Christmas Market in St George's Plateau (England, UK)

7. Liverpool – 57.40

Taking the seventh spot was Liverpool, with an overall index score of 57.4 out of 100. Bar Hütte is a highlight of the port city over Christmas – situated in Chavasse Park, it has a range of entertainment, treats and alpine-themed drinks available.

(Image: Getty)

Nottingham Christmas Market (England, UK)

6. Nottingham – 58

Nottingham ranked sixth, generating an index score of 58 out of 100. Nottingham performed well in both hotel and meal affordability, with scores of 8.77 and 9.75 out of 10, respectively. This equated to average costs of £90.95 per night for a room and £45 for a 3-course meal for two.

(Image: Getty)

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