It’s Time to Start Planning for Holidays in England

The holidays are right around the corner, and if you’re planning family travel to England, you’ll be in for a treat as you experience some of the old-world traditions and festive celebrations that make the country a magical place at Christmastime. To make sure your family has a holiday to remember, check out these great ways to celebrate the season during your travels:

Germany’s Christmas markets may be legendary, but in England, they are a force to be reckoned with. Ideally located around the country in cities worth visiting any time of year, these holiday attractions create whimsical scenes that take us back to a simpler time when twinkling lights and Christmas sweets were pure magic. Live music, seasonal treats and mulled cider are the perfect pairing for the unique and handcrafted gifts sold.

Some of the country’s best Christmas markets can be found in Newcastle, York, Nottingham and Bath. Stratford-upon-Avon hosts an annual Victorian Christmas market, while Birmingham is home to the Frankfurt Christmas market, bringing the traditions of Germany’s famed markets to England. In London, the city’s popular Hyde Park transforms into an epic holiday scene with holiday lights and carnival games. There is even a comedy club and amusement park rides to make sure there is something for everyone.

Most of England’s holiday markets start in early November and run until New Year’s Eve, and some, like the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, are so popular, advance reservations have become a necessity.

While you can spend your entire holiday traveling the country to experience the uniqueness of each market, you can also explore the wonderful holiday cheer around the city of London. One of the most popular holiday traditions is the annual lighting of the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square. This holiday tradition occurs on the first Thursday in December and is accompanied by locals singing Christmas carols to celebrate the occasion.

Locals and visitors alike enjoy strolling the streets of London all season long enjoying the twinkling holiday lights and decorations that have earned the city a name as a top holiday destination. Piccadilly, Covent Garden, Leicester Square, the South Bank area and Oxford Street are just some of the many areas going all out for the season to create a picturesque scene that welcomes children of all ages to get in the holiday spirit.