Currently planning for a trip to Great Britain. Me, wife, son (12) daughter (11). I a wrestling with when to go. My wife and I have been (before kids) and visited for 2 weeks over Christmas & New Years in 2004 and LOVED it. Especially enjoyed Scotland and Wales. Finally ready to return and looking forward to touring with our kids. Last time we visited London, Edinburgh, York, Stirling, Bets-Y-Coed, and Portsmouth. Generally would like to do the same this trip, but add some time in the Highlands, visit Bath, Cardiff and perhaps Keswick. My original plan was to do 3 weeks (maybe 3 1/2) beginning in Mid December 2017 and returning around January 6 2018 with Christmas in London and Hogmanay in Edinburgh. I remember it being cold. I remember it getting dark early. I remember some things not being open (actually very few). Being somewhere other than home for the holidays was fun. None of that seemed to be a negative that would keep me from going again (obviously). However, as I am planning specific itinerary, I am thinking maybe it would be better go in a shoulder season like September. On first glance it might seem like a no brainer. The problem is that taking 3 weeks of vacation would be MUCH easier over the holidays because my job slows down considerably. In fact I might only be able to do 2 weeks if I go in September. We will return (perhaps 5-10 years) but like most travellers want to make the most of the time we have. So I guess the question is would it be that much better in September (scenery, prices, etc.) even if I have one less week? Has anyone been during both those times (or perhaps live there) that could weigh in?
Hoping all of that made sense. Thanks in advance for your comments!