Every Christmas we hear people say that they plan to go away next year and celebrate the festive season elsewhere. Making sure that Christmas Day is a success can sometimes be a hassle, so many people choose to get away from it all and head to somewhere where they can relax.
If you are planning a festive escape, Stagecoach, a national bus operator, has found the most Christmassy towns and villages in the UK where you could spend your Christmas this year:
Getting Away This Christmas – Shere, England
Shere is the idyllic village in the Christmas movie The Holiday starring Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to stay in the iconic beautiful cottage that is home to Kate Winslet’s character as it was built specially for the movie — but you might get something close to it!
Looking further than movie production value, what else does Shere have to offer visitors? Located between Guildford and Dorking, it makes the perfect Christmas retreat – especially for those wanting a quieter time away. You’ll find that it’s the little things that you do that create the most joyful memories.
From cosy tea rooms to traditional British pubs, you’ll be able to immerse yourself into this close-knit community. The Dabbling Duck tearoom is located near the river and offers both vegetarian and gluten free food along with locally baked goods. For an extra cosy experience, visit the outdoor tent fitted perfectly with a wood burning stove.
If you’re looking for something a bit stronger than tea, there are two popular pubs right in the heart of the village. The White Horse and The William Bray are down the road from each other, and are the perfect place for a Christmas tipple.
There are two B&B’s in the main part of Shere, while entire homes are available to rent on websites such as Airbnb — be quick while they’re still available!
Broadway, England
If you want to find yourself in the magical spirit, head to Broadway in Gloucestershire. Throughout late November and all of December, the village transforms into the most spectacular Christmas destination.
Perfect for any family, the village transforms into a ‘winter wonderland’ — don’t miss out on the spectacular Christmas tree lights. Don’t forget to take the little ones to Santa’s grotto to make sure they’re on the good list this Christmas.
Broadway is home to a few pubs that you could visit while you’re there. The Horse & Hound is a 17th century inn situated in a welcoming stone building or how about the family-friendly The Swan? Once you’re done, pop into Broadway Indian for some hot food to warm you up on these chilly winter nights, or Russell’s Fish & Chip shop is just up the road.
Known for being soaked in art and culture, Broadway has four different galleries for you to visit on your trip so you’ll never get bored. If you want to tackle them all in one day, they’re close by so it will be an easy walk from one to the other.
If you’re looking for a nice hotel, you’ll not have to look far as they all seem to have good reviews. Spending a night, week or fortnight in this village could make the perfect Christmas fairytale for you and your family, no stress included!
Bamburgh, England
Unlike the other villages on our list, this one is on the seafront, so you might even spot Santa’s sleigh above the ocean!
Situated in the heart of Northumberland, Bamburgh has a lot of history, reflected through the tourist hotspot that is Bamburgh Castle. It is the reason why thousands of people visit this destination every year.
If you’re in need of a hot drink on a cold winter day, there are three cafes just down from the castle and into the village. Wyndenwell, The Pantry and The Copper Kettle Tea Rooms would be the perfect place to grab a drink once you’ve finished touring the castle.
There are a few restaurants that you must go to: The Potted Lobster, The Brasserie, The Olive Tree and The Castle Inn are all located on the front road. Neighbouring village Seahouses is just a short drive away. There, you can dine at the famous Neptune Fish Restaurant or have a pint at The Olde Ship Inn, where Prince Charles once visited.
There are plenty of places for you to stop in Bamburgh, thirteen in total. Just remember to pack your woolly jumpers, hats, scarves and gloves – basically any clothing that will help protect you from the icy breeze that is coming from the sea!
What village will you be heading to this Christmas with the family? Whether you’re going away for Christmas or just sightseeing around your city, Stagecoach offers a weekly bus pass that will get you around all the best locations in no time!
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