Best Family Christmas Breaks in the UK

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It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, the season for family, food, and festivity. It's also the perfect time to take a much needed break. Whether you’re looking for a city break or want to escape the hustle and bustle of the festive period, join CrossCountry as we explore our top choices for family Christmas breaks in the UK.

Darwin Forest

Darwin Forest might just be one of the most magical places to spend Christmas as a family. The resort is sprinkled with adorable log cabins, perfect for a festive evening games night or a spectacular roast dinner on the big day. There's no end of activities to get stuck into during the day too, from tennis to archery to zorbing. Visitors can even take a ride on the mini jet skis and sea scooters in the park's indoor swimming pool. During the holiday season, take a winter walk through the forest, enjoy a relaxing spa visit or beauty therapy session, or have some fun in the warm at the soft play centre. Darwin Forest often has its own festive activities too, like carol singing, festive crafts, or even visits from Santa. 
The Foresters restaurant is open seven days a week, serving up dishes to suit even picky eaters. From 10oz rump steak to herby chicken Caesar salad, visitors are sure to leave feeling happy and full. The kids' menu is equally exciting, with gooey, chocolatey desserts that are sure to be a hit.

A valid debit or credit card.
A valid passport, UK driving licence or EEA National Identity card number.
A passport-style photo.
If you are a mature student, you’ll also need to provide a Student Railcard application form that has been stamped by your place of study and your university/college photo ID.

A valid debit or credit card.
A valid passport, UK driving licence or EEA National Identity card number.

Dalhousie Castle Hotel And Spa

For a taste of real luxury this Christmas, head to Dalhousie Castle Hotel and Spa in Scotland. This 13th-century castle is everything a wintery escape should be. Spend Christmas Eve exploring the castle’s historic halls, then relax in the award-winning spa with a beauty and wellness treatment. On Christmas Day, enjoy a show-stopping Christmas lunch in the castle’s atmospheric dungeon restaurant.

The hotel offers a variety of packages around Christmas time, which often include special activities suitable for all ages, like falconry displays, archery lessons, and guided tours of the castle’s grounds. Visitors can also experience a traditional Scottish Christmas with live bagpipe performances, ceilidh dancing, and a delicious afternoon tea in the drawing room.

Gullivers Valley Theme Park

For a true family adventure, Gulliver's Valley Theme Park near Sheffield is an ideal choice. Children can visit Santa's Grotto to share their Christmas wish lists with Father Christmas himself. Alongside this, there are thrilling Christmas shows and gentle rides tailored for younger visitors. The park couldn't be better suited for families with younger kids looking for an unforgettable Christmas experience.

The entire month of December is full to the brim with festive goings on. The park's Christmas Spectacular brings holiday cheer to life with festive parades, magical story times with Santa, and a host of interactive attractions that will keep the kids entertained all day. Plus, the Twilight Christmas Adventure is perfect for families who want to experience the magic of Christmas in the evening, with pretty lights and special night-time entertainment.

Info

At time of publishing, all information given is correct. Details of events, businesses and locations included may be subject to change by third parties. Please make sure to check any details with organisers before you travel

Info

At the time of publishing, all information given is correct. Details of events, businesses, and locations included may be subject to change by third parties. Please make sure to check any details with organisers before you travel.