I am contemplating a visit to the UK the second half of December. My husband passed away on Dec. 29, 2023 and I would like to be away then. Sitting in my home on New Year Eve was dreadful. My sister will be in London on business and suggested I meet her there. I have been to England several times. I would like to see things away from London, Bath, and Oxford as I have been there. I will also have to depend on public transportation. I was wondering if seeing sights in the Peak District would be possible. Any suggestions for sights and itineraries would be appreciated.
Posted by
Bristol, UK
1454 posts
This sounds like a very good plan, especially as you will be with your sister.
It is winter so bear in mind that it gets dark at 4pm and it could be cold, wet, snowy or icy. With that in mind I would probably not plan to be in the countryside. It’s pretty rare that the weather here is too bad for rural travel but it’s just with the short amount of daylight you will have a lot of time after dark where you might not have much to do. In a town you can enjoy the lights and attractions.
Posted by
Lake District, England
8136 posts
The Peak District might be a good idea, but you might find it a good idea to base in Manchester (where there will be a lot seasonally happening) and use the Manchester to Buxton rail line to go up into the Peak daily then local buses.
There is a day ticket called the Greater Manchester Wayfarer which lets you do that- https://tfgm.com/tickets-and-passes/wayfarer-adult
There is another current thread on the Peak District but I would especially note that Chatsworth House opens specially for the season
Looking at your posting history I am not sure if Cornwall (staying somewhere like Truro or Penzance) may be helpful, or may be the opposite. I am thinking especially of the famous Mousehole Harbour Christmas lights.
Posted by
Yorkshire
1359 posts
Christmas Day ,25th
Boxing Day. 26th
And Jan 1st are public holidays so expect no services on those days.
I see Chatsworth appears to be open.
Theres a ticket called Derbyshire Wayfarer which covers all the local buses and trains within the Park ( and some connections to towns outside) that might be usefull.
Buxton Opera House I would think might have show on .
Pretty short days in December be dark by 4.30pm
Sunrise 8.15am
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
33994 posts
I am sorry for your so recent loss. Your needs are very reasonable.
Maybe stay within touching distance of your sister.
Do be prepared for bad weather and slippery surfaces, but maybe you will be lucky.
Once again, my condolences