England loves Christmas, and the entire country gets decked out for the holidays in December, adding some much-needed atmosphere to the shortest days of the year. If London is too crowded for your taste—and it will be busy—consider other great cities, like Manchester, as well as charming towns and villages where there will be plenty of festivities, plus close proximity to cultural attractions and nature walks.
England in December: A Comprehensive Guide
## Weather
As with everywhere else in the northern hemisphere, the month of December in England signifies the heart of winter, marked by the winter solstice occurring around December 21st. This astronomical event brings with it the shortest days of the year, resulting in the earliest sunsets. In England, you can expect the sun to dip below the horizon before 4 pm, particularly in the earlier part of the month. Therefore, meticulous planning is paramount when considering any daylight-dependent activities or excursions. Embrace the opportunity to experience England’s festive illuminations, which are at their most dazzling during these extended evenings.
Moreover, December necessitates dressing for the season. Embrace the chill and prepare to bundle up in warm layers. In the capital city of **London**, daily high temperatures average around 48°F (9°C), while lows typically hover around 41°F (5°C). Venturing further north to cities such as **Newcastle** and **York**, you can anticipate temperatures that are generally a few degrees colder, emphasizing the need for even warmer attire. However, the southwest coast, particularly in **Cornwall**, benefits from the influence of the Gulf Stream, resulting in slightly milder temperatures during this time of year. While not balmy, the coastal areas offer a respite from the harsher conditions further inland.
Unsurprisingly, gloomy skies and rain are commonplace throughout England in December, creating a quintessential winter ambiance. The possibility of sleet and even light snow adds to the seasonal charm. On average, the country experiences approximately 3.4 inches (8.7 cm) of rainfall this month, with the south and west coasts typically receiving a higher concentration of precipitation. The northeast coast, while experiencing less rainfall, can often feel quite brisk due to winds originating from the North Sea. Regardless of your chosen destination within England during this time of year, it’s essential to pack an array of warm layers to adapt to fluctuating temperatures, a durable winter coat that can effectively repel moisture, and a reliable umbrella, fondly referred to as a *brolly*, to shield yourself from the elements.
## Crowds & Costs
If your holiday itinerary includes a visit to **London**, be prepared for the city to be particularly vibrant and bustling throughout December. The iconic markets and renowned shopping streets are thronged with locals and tourists alike, all eager to experience the spectacular lighting displays and festive decorations. People from all corners of England, as well as visitors from around the globe, converge on **London** during this period to soak up the holiday atmosphere. Given the high demand, it’s crucial to plan ahead and make reservations for hotels, restaurants, and tours well in advance, especially if you intend to arrive during the peak of the season, spanning from mid-December through New Year’s Eve.
For the rest of the country, December generally presents a more relaxed and affordable travel experience. With fewer tourists at the various attractions, you’ll have more space to explore at your own pace. However, the Christmas markets do draw a significant number of locals, particularly during evenings and weekends, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere. It’s also worth noting that some rural businesses may choose to close for the low season, so it’s advisable to verify the hours of operation beforehand if you’re planning a self-guided road trip through the countryside. Being prepared will allow you to fully appreciate the scenic beauty of England.
## Where to Go
**London** frequently serves as the initial point of entry for travelers arriving at Heathrow, the nation’s busiest airport, and December is no exception. Upon arrival, you’ll find a variety of transportation options available to reach **Central London**. Consider a ride in a *hackney carriage*, or black cab, a quintessential choice if you wish to enjoy the street scenery and engage with the knowledgeable driver, who has successfully completed the rigorous “The Knowledge” examination. Alternatively, you can opt for the *Tube*, or London Underground, the most economical option, which typically takes around an hour with approximately 20 stops.
For the quickest route from Heathrow, consider taking an express train to **Paddington Station**, conveniently located just north of **Hyde Park**. The journey typically takes around 15 minutes, allowing you to quickly reach your destination. From **Paddington Station**, you’ll have easy access to several desirable neighborhoods within walking distance, including **Notting Hill**, **Mayfair**, **Marylebone**, and **Maida Vale**. These neighborhoods boast a diverse selection of hotels and convenient transportation options, making it easy to navigate the city and explore its many attractions.
From **London**, you can easily embark on day trips to various destinations within England, with several options accessible in 90 minutes or less by train. A popular choice is a visit to **Windsor Castle**, the official residence of the Queen, where you can tour parts of the largest occupied castle in the world. Alternatively, head west to **Bath** to admire its stunning Georgian architecture and explore the fascinating Roman Baths complex. The historic university cities of **Oxford** and **Cambridge** offer an engaging way to spend a day, strolling around their iconic collegiate landmarks. Similarly, **Canterbury**, a cathedral city boasting three UNESCO-listed sites, provides a captivating glimpse into England’s rich history and heritage.
Despite the limited daylight hours, travelers may opt to rent a car and venture into the tranquil countryside. Consider exploring the six counties that constitute the **Cotswolds**, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which offers picturesque walking trails and breathtaking scenery. Another appealing option is to travel south towards the English Channel, gaining access to the UNESCO-listed **Jurassic Coast**, famed for its dramatic cliffs and geological wonders. For a more extended excursion, consider heading to England’s southwestern tip in **Cornwall**, renowned for its extensive coastline and challenging winter waves, attracting experienced surfers to popular spots like **Fistral Beach** in **Newquay**.
## What to Do
The Christmas market season is in full bloom throughout most of December, with numerous enticing options offering a wide array of gifts, food, and mulled wine across the country. **London** hosts a festive winter market at the **Southbank Centre**, as well as one in **Trafalgar Square** adorned with a grand menorah. **Hyde Park** features a particularly impressive market with over 100 wooden stalls and the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink. Another notable ice skating rink is located at **Somerset House**, near the elegant **Covent Garden**, which is beautifully decorated for Christmas, showcasing specialty foods and gifts.
If you find yourself in **Bath**, be sure to visit the city’s Christmas market, which primarily features high-quality British artisan products. Meanwhile, **Manchester** arguably hosts the best Christmas market in the country, a fitting distinction as it was the first of its kind. Each year, you’ll discover around 300 stalls spread across 10 locations, offering a diverse range of gifts and international food and drinks.
These smaller cities are also excellent for exploring the local architecture and museums, and they benefit from being less crowded than **London**. In **Liverpool**, you can visit a museum dedicated to the Beatles, followed by a visit to another museum detailing the city’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. In **York**, you can choose from museums dedicated to dinosaurs, Vikings, and Romans. Additionally, you can participate in guided tours throughout England, ranging from Shakespeare-themed tours in **Stratford-upon-Avon** to tours showcasing Harry Potter locations in **Oxford University**, or a tour in **Canterbury** highlighting the introduction of Roman Christianity to Britain.
As the evenings draw in early, it’s important to plan your time wisely and secure tickets and reservations for **London’s** various offerings. You might consider a dinner cruise along the **River Thames** or booking a table at a seasonal outdoor restaurant, such as the winter domes near **London Bridge**. After dark, take a stroll through **Kew Gardens** and marvel at the Christmas display, or purchase tickets to renowned venues like **Royal Albert Hall** or theatre productions in the **West End**. On New Year’s Eve, head to **Big Ben** just before midnight to witness the spectacular fireworks display above the **London Eye**.
## Events in December
**Christmas markets, nationwide**. Starting in late November and continuing through Christmas, you’ll find a festive holiday market offering food, drinks, gifts, and live entertainment (often in the form of music and carol singers) in virtually every corner of the country.
**Christmas at Kew, Richmond**. The renowned botanic gardens become exceptionally magical during Christmastime, offering a festive trail of lights and music to follow after dark.
**Hogwarts in the Snow, London**. If you plan on visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour while in town, you can witness the iconic Harry Potter sets, including the Great Hall, transformed with impressive holiday decorations.
**Christmas Eve, Christmas, Boxing Day, nationwide**. All three days are celebrated in England. Be sure to complete your shopping early on Christmas Eve, as many businesses will be closed.
**New Year’s Eve, nationwide**. London goes all out for the final day of the year with a variety of shows, activities, and ticketed events. For a more relaxed evening, consider securing a restaurant reservation with a view, allowing you to enjoy the fireworks over the London Eye.
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