Christmas in England

You're probably better being in the UK in the run-up to Christmas rather than Christmas itself. Christmas Day is all about family. Everything closes, we spend time with our nearest and dearest etc...

However from late November onwards you'll find Christmas markets (Lincoln's is especially picturesque with the cathedral & castle as a backdrop - it usually takes place during the first or second weekend of December.)

Some National Trust & English Heritage properties have special events/lighting/decorations in the run-up to Christmas - but check winter opening times and don't expect this on Christmas Day itself.

Churches and cathedrals will have carol services and Christingle services.

Shopping streets have special lights & displays.

For the most Christmassy feeling, I'd pick one of the beautiful cathedral cities like Lincoln or Winchester. I'd find a good pub that serves a traditional Christmas meal - but eat it a week or two ahead of Christmas, because on Christmas Day itself most pubs & restaurants will either be closed or very expensive.

Oh, and there won't be snow.

You might consider The Landmark Trust properties.

No public transport on Christmas Day and limited service on Boxing Day.

Look at the National Trust website for their upcoming Christmas activities. Most all will be beautifully decorated and have lots of special activities. See what appeals to you.

I totally agree with Emma. I have been in Winchester on Christmas Day and I can tell you that nothing, absolutely nothing is taking place. A few people may be seen walking their dogs but no other activity is to be seen. The highlight of the day for us, apart from the food and wine, was a walk on a hill close by. Can't remember the name ... St, Margatet's Hill, perhaps. We did go to Christmas Carol service at the Cathedral a few days before, which was stunning, and a reading of Christmas poetry at the Vicar's house (maybe not the Vicar's but a Cathedral "Person of Importance" at any rate.)

I second everything above, and would add I did have a lovely Xmas in England once (when i wasn't at home) by the expedient of booking a hotel that offered a whole package -- it was on the North York Moors and offered most meals for 3 days or so, plus carols, a nearby church, etc. In our case it was the White Swan Inn in Pickering, but doubtless other ''country'' hotels will do similar. I doubt National Trust properties woudl be open on Christmas Eve/Day/Boxing Day in most cases. I know it is hard for people from other countries to believe, but England really does shut down for those few days. I've had the experience of having to drive over half the country to collect a family member arriving on a late flight on Christmas Eve, because there were no more trains or buses.