City
Experience a distinctive mix of old and new, traditional and cutting edge in a host of ever-evolving English cities. Browse streets full-to-bursting with boutiques that boast the latest fashions and admire futuristic architecture towering above medieval monuments. Be dazzled by modern musicals, much-loved plays and works of art by the likes of Turner, Emin and Banksy. As day melts into night, indulge in Michelin-starred dishes and tongue-tingling curries before ordering a gin and tonic at a late-night museum event or throwing your best shapes at one of many buzzing cocktail bars and nightclubs. City breaks have never been so exciting.
October events: Experience Leicester's Festival of Light
Wrap up warm for Leicester’s spectacular Diwali lights switch on, or join in with a wealth of activities and celebrations leading up to the epic finale on Diwali Day.
Location: Leicester, Leicestershire
See how the Chinese party as they usher in the New Year
Manchester’s Chinatown is transformed as lanterns, food stalls and a Dragon Parade take over the streets of the city.
Location: Manchester, Greater Manchester
December events: Grab yourself a festive bargain at Bath Christmas Market
Bath Christmas Market is a magical festive shopping experience, set against the city centre’s stunning backdrop of historic buildings.
Location: Bath, Somerset
December events: Enjoy a city Christmas festival with a difference
Experience the timeless beauty of Durham City as you explore the traditional Durham Christmas festival this winter.
Location: Durham City, Durham
December events: Visit Hyde Park at Christmas and witness a Winter Wonderland
Gather the family and get your skates on for the UK’s biggest outdoor ice rink at London’s Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.
Location: London
December events: Start off your Christmas season in Chester
Visit Santa, sip on mulled wine and spend the weekend celebrating all things festive in the beautiful city of Chester.
Location: Chester, Cheshire
December events: Walk in Nottingham's magical Winter Wonderland
A traditional Christmas-card scene is recreated in Nottingham's Old Market Square every winter – the perfect place to get into the festival spirit.
Location: Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
November events: Enjoy a festive shopping experience at Derby Roundhouse
Buy perfect festive gifts at the fabulous Christmas Fair held in the stunning Derby Roundhouse, a beautiful building offering a magical atmosphere.
Location: Derby, Derbyshire
December events: Find the perfect gift at the Exeter Christmas Market
The Exeter Christmas Market represents the best of what Britain, the South West and the rest of Europe has to offer – with a mix of great food, excellent crafts, unique gifts and decorations.
Location: Exeter
Enjoy a festive day out to one of Europe's biggest Christmas markets
Wrap up warm and head down to the Manchester Christmas markets this winter to experience a festive array of sights, smells and sounds.
Location: Manchester