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n alluring mixture of the fascinating old and the crackling new, England’s cities must have been created with a fun-packed Christmas shopping city breaks in mind! World-renowned brands, elegant boutiques and unusual independent outlets sit side-by-side, creating a pulsating synergy among grand old architecture and top quality contemporary design.

Lively Christmas cheer in Liverpool

Head to Liverpool for an energetic and abundant a pre-Christmas shopping spree. You’ll find world-class shopping in brand new outlets and stylish boutiques throughout this lively and welcoming city. The sparkling new designer Liverpool ONE is right in the city’s heart and is home to more than 160 famous brands like Apple, Cath Kidston and John Lewis. Take a wintry wander through the bohemian streets, browse the shop window Christmas displays in the old arcades, and pay a visit to the Farmers Market. Thanks to Liverpool’s grand old architecture, unique charm and energy you will be able to pick up all the presents you need while treating yourself to an unforgettable city break.

Getting there: Liverpool John Lennon Airport is only seven miles from the city centre. Liverpool Lime Street train station, in the city centre, is just over two hours from London.

Boutique Christmas shopping in Bristol

Bristol is a treasure chest of unique experiences all year long, but at Christmas time it really comes alive. With a magical German Market offering all kinds of gifts and mouthwatering delights in the city centre and an intriguing array of alternate shops and boutiques, Bristol makes the perfect shopping short break. A thriving arts scene, maritime heritage, colourful variety of bohemian bars and cosy old pubs sit side by side among the city’s intriguing mix of old and new architecture.

Getting there: Bristol Airport is eight miles south of the city centre. The city is served by two main stations: Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway, each served by direct trains from London.

Award-winning Christmas market in Manchester

A festive Christmas shopping break in Manchester’s award-winning Christmas market is an experience not soon forgotten. Considered to be among the best Christmas markets in Europe, the traditional wooden chalets transform the city centre. Ablaze with twinkling lights and holly the bustling market stalls offer everything from jewellery to bonsai trees. Big brand high-street names bustle in a city centre characterised by grand old architecture and cutting edge style.

Getting there: Manchester Airport is 10 miles southwest of the city. Manchester has excellent rail links with four main stations, of which Piccadilly is the busiest and most central.

A Christmas shopping treat in York

York at Christmas is a real treat. This spectacular medieval city’s historic architecture and twisting cobbled streets ooze elegance and charm. Vibrant Christmas markets, carol singers, roasting chestnuts and sprinkles of twinkling lights set the picture-perfect Christmas scene. With an array of independent boutiques, leading high street names and antique shops, a shopping break in York is a Christmas gift to yourself! After a long day of present picking, sit by a roaring open fire in a cosy old pub or indulge in one of York’s many fine dining experiences.

Getting there: York is less than two hours from London by rail and only two and a half from Edinburgh. Leeds Bradford International Airport is a 45 minute drive from York. There's a regular daily coach shuttle service to London's Heathrow Airport.

Leeds Winter Wonderland

In the north of England, Leeds shines brightly as a magical winter wonderland ideal for a family Christmas shopping and festive fun. The largest winter illuminations display in the UK uses a staggering 12,000 lamps and 3,000 hand-crafted motifs all spun throughout the city and radiating festive joy onto the bustling streets below. Some of the best shopping in the UK can be found right here in Harvey Nichols, Apple Store and the wonderful assortment of boutique and vintage shops. A German Christmas market adds to the family fun with music and treats to delight all ages.

Getting there: Leeds is easily reachable by coach and is only around two hours by train from London. The city is served by Leeds Bradford International Airport.

A regency Christmas in Bath

With the aroma of hot roasted chestnuts and the singing of carollers gently drifting together through the graceful streets of this UNESCO World Heritage City, Bath is a magical setting for Christmas every year. The Bath Christmas Market sets up camp right next to the ancient Roman Baths and gives shoppers the chance to pick up an array of handcrafted items and tasty wintry delicacies like mulled wine and hot minced pies. High-end shops and tastefully decorated displays line the resplendent regency streets to create a stunning Christmas shopping experience in what we think is one of the most beautiful cities on earth!

Getting there: Bristol Airport is just 20 miles from Bath. Bath Spa train station is less than two hours from London and is within easy reach of the city centre attractions.

Food, nightlife and endless Christmas stalls in Birmingham

Each Christmas the largest German market outside of Germany and Austria sets up home in Birmingham bringing with it an infectious feeling of celebration. Come with an empty stomach as the scent of hearty winter food will tempt you to gorge yourself! The Christmas market combines with Birmingham’s Christmas Craft Fair to offer over 180 stalls. With thousands of big-name shops and independent stores in the city make sure you don’t shop yourself out because you won’t want to miss out on Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife and renowned cuisine.

Getting there: Birmingham has great transport links with its own international airport which is serviced by regular coach shuttles. England’s second city is just 90 minutes by train from London.