December Holidays in the UK

Whether you need to round off your Christmas shopping or catch up on the sights, a December visit to London has plenty to offer. You can shop at Harrods or on Oxford Street before hitting the theatres of the West End. There are Premier League matches throughout the month, and the capital's historical attractions are endless.

Scotland's capital is an appealing place to be in December, especially just after Christmas. Hogmanay (as it's called in Scotland) is a massive party in Edinburgh, bringing spectacular fireworks and filling the pubs and streets with revellers. Add shopping in Princes Street and you have a great festive destination.

Although beach season is a distant memory, Cornwall's coast is an inspiring place to be in the winter months. The Gulf Stream ensures relatively mild temperatures, while cosy gastropubs combine with stunning scenery to offer a great December refuge.

Merseyside is an excellent place to be in December, with dazzling Christmas lights adorning the city centre. Visit attractions such as the Tate Gallery and the Liverpool Horse Show, which takes place at the end of the month.

Come mid-December, the students have departed and the ancient university city of Cambridge becomes a fascinating place to explore. The colleges are usually open for visitors, and if you plan ahead, you can reserve seats for Christmas carols at King's Chapel - a wonderful festive experience.