Dreaming of a Cosy Christmas Getaway? Magical UK Destinations to Book Now

There’s something truly special about escaping for a few days over Christmas, whether you’re after a snug cottage with a log fire, a festive market town twinkling with lights, or a grand hotel serving up all the trimmings. 

If you’ve been dreaming of a Christmas holiday that’s merry, bright, and stress-free, now’s the perfect time to book your festive break.

Why a Christmas Staycation is So Special

The UK does Christmas like nowhere else. From centuries-old traditions to roaring fires and frosty landscapes, there’s a kind of charm that’s hard to beat. 

A winter getaway offers the perfect mix of comfort, nostalgia, and indulgence, plus, you get to skip the airport queues and potential weather chaos abroad.

Top Cosy UK Christmas Destinations

The Cotswolds: Quintessentially British Charm

Think honey-coloured stone cottages, traditional pubs with mulled wine on tap, and streets strung with fairy lights. Many villages host Christmas markets and carol services, and you can even book a thatched cottage with an open fire for a storybook Christmas retreat.

The Lake District: Snow-Dusted Serenity

If your idea of Christmas is waking up to mountain views and crisp winter walks, head to the Lakes. Cosy inns like those around Ambleside and Grasmere offer festive packages with roaring log fires, hearty roasts, and local ales. Bonus: the landscape is even more magical under a light dusting of snow.

Edinburgh: A Capital Christmas Celebration

Edinburgh’s Christmas festival is world-famous, and for good reason. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with its market, ice rink, light trails, and fairground rides. Stay in a boutique hotel near Princes Street for easy access to the festive magic — and don’t miss the fireworks on Hogmanay.

York: History, Hot Chocolate and Holiday Cheer

York’s medieval streets, illuminated by festive lights, make for a truly atmospheric Christmas break. The St Nicholas Fair fills the Shambles with stalls selling gifts, food, and mulled wine. Wrap up warm, wander through history, and enjoy the city’s enchanting Christmas atmosphere.

Snowdonia or the Scottish Highlands: Wilderness and Wonder

For those who prefer peace and space, a remote cabin or cottage surrounded by snowy peaks or pine forests offers pure Christmas calm. Picture waking to silence, walking through frost-covered trails, then returning to hot chocolate by the fire. Bliss.

Tips for Booking Your Christmas Holiday

Book early: The best cottages and festive hotel packages often sell out by late autumn.

Check for festive extras: Look for Christmas dinners, carol concerts, or holiday hampers included in your stay.

Pack for the season: Cosy jumpers, walking boots, and maybe a Santa hat or two.

Travel smart: Trains and roads can be busy near Christmas, plan ahead, or arrive a few days early to unwind.

Make This Christmas Magical

Whether it’s a quiet country cottage, a lakeside lodge, or a bustling festive city break, the UK is full of enchanting places to make your Christmas unforgettable. So light a candle, pour a glass of something warming, and start planning your festive escape today.

Top Christmas Films to Watch on a Cosy Winter Night

There’s nothing quite like curling up under a blanket with a hot drink, the glow of fairy lights, and a Christmas film playing in the background. 

Whether you’re after heartwarming classics, festive comedies, or magical tales, there’s something for everyone. 

Here’s our pick of the best Christmas films to watch on a cosy winter night.

1. Home Alone (1990)

A true Christmas staple, Home Alone follows young Kevin McCallister as he’s accidentally left behind when his family heads off on holiday. Chaos ensues when he must defend his home from two hapless burglars. Full of slapstick comedy and festive charm, this film is a must-watch.

2. The Holiday (2006)

If you’re in the mood for a romantic Christmas film, The Holiday is the perfect pick. Starring Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, and Jack Black, this cosy romcom follows two women who swap homes for the holidays and find unexpected romance. It’s a feel-good film full of charm and snowy scenery.

3. Love Actually (2003)

A Christmas favourite in the UK, Love Actually weaves together multiple love stories set during the festive season. With a stellar British cast, including Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, and Alan Rickman, it’s a heartwarming film that balances romance, comedy, and emotional moments beautifully.

4. Elf (2003)

Will Ferrell’s Elf is a hilarious and wholesome Christmas film that never gets old. The story of Buddy, a human raised as an elf in the North Pole, who travels to New York to find his real father, is packed with laughs, festive cheer, and plenty of quotable lines.

5. The Polar Express (2004)

For a dose of animated Christmas magic, The Polar Express is a beautiful, whimsical adventure about a boy who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole. With stunning visuals and a touching story about belief and wonder, it’s a great choice for a cosy night in.

6. A Christmas Carol (Various Adaptations)

Charles Dickens' timeless story has been adapted many times, and there are plenty of great versions to choose from. The 1951 version, The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) brings a fun, musical twist with Michael Caine as Scrooge, while Scrooged (1988), starring Bill Murray, offers a modern, comedic take.

7. The Snowman (1982)

This short, animated film based on Raymond Briggs’ book is a Christmas tradition in the UK. With no dialogue and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, including Walking in the Air, The Snowman captures the magic and melancholy of the season perfectly.

8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Jim Carrey brings Dr Seuss’ classic character to life in this festive comedy about the Grinch, a grumpy recluse who tries to ruin Christmas for the residents of Whoville. With dazzling visuals and plenty of heart, it’s a great watch for the whole family.

9. Miracle on 34th Street (1994)

A heartwarming tale about a little girl who learns to believe in Santa Claus, this remake of the 1947 classic is full of Christmas spirit. Richard Attenborough’s portrayal of Kris Kringle is charming, making it a must-watch for fans of sentimental holiday films.

10. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

No Christmas film list would be complete without this classic. It’s a Wonderful Life tells the story of George Bailey, a man who learns just how much he has to be thankful for with the help of an angel. Uplifting and poignant, this film reminds us of the true meaning of the season.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for nostalgia, laughter, romance, or a good cry, these Christmas films are perfect for a cosy night in. So grab a mug of hot chocolate, wrap yourself in a blanket, and let the festive magic begin!

What are your favourite Christmas films? Let us know in the comments!

The Perfect Comforting Christmas Gift: A Weighted Blanket – For Cosy and Calming Winter Evenings

As the winter nights grow colder and the festive season approaches, there’s no better time to indulge in a little extra comfort. 

Christmas is the season of giving, and this year, why not treat someone special (or yourself!) to the ultimate cosy gift: a weighted blanket. 

Whether you're winding down after a busy day or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, a weighted blanket offers a soothing and calming experience that is perfect for the colder months. Here's why it makes the ideal Christmas gift.

What is a Weighted Blanket?

A weighted blanket is a therapeutic blanket filled with materials like glass beads or plastic pellets, designed to provide gentle, even pressure across the body. This sensation, known as deep touch pressure (DPT), mimics the feeling of being held or hugged, which can help trigger the release of serotonin and melatonin – two key hormones that regulate mood and sleep. The result? A sense of calm, relaxation, and comfort that can be especially helpful during the winter months.

The Perfect Gift for Cosy Winter Evenings

When the weather outside is frightful, there’s nothing quite like curling up on the sofa with a soft, warm blanket. A weighted blanket takes that comfort to the next level, offering a calming embrace that helps you unwind after a long day. Whether you're reading a book, watching a Christmas movie, or simply enjoying a hot drink, a weighted blanket adds an extra layer of warmth and relaxation.

Why a Weighted Blanket Makes the Perfect Christmas Gift

A Calming Experience: Winter can bring about feelings of stress or anxiety, and the holiday season, while joyful, can also be overwhelming. A weighted blanket can help ease these feelings by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. It’s like receiving a comforting hug whenever you need it most.

Improved Sleep: Many people struggle with sleep during the colder months, especially when the days are shorter. The gentle pressure of a weighted blanket can improve sleep quality by encouraging the production of melatonin, the hormone that helps regulate sleep. This makes it an excellent gift for anyone who could use a little extra help getting a good night’s rest.

Versatility and Style: Available in a variety of colours, textures, and sizes, weighted blankets can complement any home décor. Whether you’re looking for a chic, modern design or a more traditional, cosy look, there’s a weighted blanket to suit every taste. Plus, they’re available in different weights, allowing you to choose the perfect one for the recipient’s needs.

Year-Round Comfort: While a weighted blanket is particularly soothing during the colder months, it’s a gift that can be enjoyed year-round. The calming effects of deep touch pressure are beneficial in all seasons, making it a thoughtful and practical present that keeps giving long after Christmas is over.

A Thoughtful, Self-Care Gift: In today’s busy world, self-care is more important than ever. A weighted blanket encourages moments of relaxation and mindfulness, helping the recipient to unwind and recharge. It’s a gift that shows you care about their well-being and want them to experience moments of peace and comfort.

How to Choose the Right Weighted Blanket

When selecting a weighted blanket as a Christmas gift, consider the following:

Weight: A general rule of thumb is to choose a blanket that is around 10% of the recipient's body weight. However, personal preference plays a role too, so it’s worth asking the recipient about their preferences if you’re unsure.

Size: Weighted blankets come in various sizes, from single to king-size. Choose a size that suits the recipient’s bed or preferred lounging space.

Material: Look for a blanket made from soft, breathable materials like cotton or bamboo, which are comfortable and easy to care for.

The Ultimate Christmas Gift for Comfort and Calm

This Christmas, give the gift of relaxation with a weighted blanket. Whether you’re shopping for a loved one or treating yourself, it’s a thoughtful, practical, and incredibly comforting present that’s perfect for the chilly winter evenings ahead. Cozy up, unwind, and enjoy the calming embrace of a weighted blanket – the ultimate gift for a peaceful and restful Christmas season.

Wishing you a warm and restful Christmas!

Cosy Christmas Décor for Compact Spaces: Designing a Festive Apartment or flat

The Christmas seasons is galloping toward us, and it's getting to be the time to deck the halls with boughs of holly, or in this case, transform your small apartment or flat into a winter wonderland. Limited space doesn't mean you have to compromise on the Festive cheer. With a little ingenuity some creativity and a dash of festive spirit, you can create a cosy and enchanting Christmas theme that perfectly suits your compact living space. 

In this blog post, we'll share some practical tips on designing a Christmas theme for your small apartment or flat.

Plan Your Space

Before you dive into the decorations, take a moment to assess your space. Measure the areas you want to decorate, including your living room, dining area, kitchen (if you have a separate kitchen) and any nooks or corners you'd like to accentuate. This will help you avoid overloading the space and ensure your decorations fit comfortably.

Opt for a Minimalistic Approach

In a small apartment, less is often more. Choose a colour scheme that complements your existing décor to create a cohesive look. Classic Christmas colours like red, green, gold, and silver can be incorporated in small details, such as with throw pillows, table runners, and small ornaments. Consider a neutral base, like white or silver, to make your space feel more open and airy.

Choose Space-Saving Decorations

Small apartments require a creative approach to decorations. Go for slimline Christmas trees, wall-mounted or tabletop options, instead of large, floor-standing trees. Hang wreaths and garlands to make use of vertical space, and select decorations that don't take up much room, such as mini ornaments or fairy lights.

Embrace the Power of Lights

Christmas lights add a warm and magical touch to any space. Use fairy lights, string lights, and LED candles to create a cosy ambiance. Hang them along your windows, drape them on your walls, or place them in glass jars for a subtle, yet charming, effect.

DIY Ornaments and Décor

Get creative with DIY ornaments and décor. Craft your own paper snowflakes, garlands, or personalised ornaments. Not only will this add a unique and personal touch to your decorations, but it's also a fun and budget-friendly way to get into the holiday spirit. (That's Christmas has covered personalised ornaments and we'll refer back to the blogpost at the end of this post.)

Space-Conscious Tree Decorations

If you have a small tree, be selective with your ornaments. Use lightweight and smaller decorations to avoid weighing down the branches. Consider using a tree topper that won't overwhelm your tree, like a delicate star or a mini angel.

Multi-Purpose Furniture

Select furniture that serves a dual purpose. A foldable dining table can be a fantastic addition to your apartment, allowing you to host festive gatherings when it's required. Also, consider furniture with built-in storage for stashing away your decorations after the Christmas and New Year period is oved.

Festive Table Setting

Create a festive table setting with holiday-themed dinnerware, napkins, and placemats. Utilise candles (real or electric)  small centrepieces, and personalised name cards to make your dining area feel extra special.

Incorporate Seasonal Scents

Enhance the holiday ambiance by introducing seasonal scents. Scented candles, essential oil diffusers, or potpourri with cinnamon, pine, or gingerbread fragrances will make your apartment feel even more festive. But do be cautious as some guests might be allergic to some scents.

Personal Touch

Lastly, add your personal touch to your Christmas theme. Display cherished family ornaments or mementos, and don't forget to hang stockings for Santa's visit!

Designing a Christmas theme for a small apartment or flat can be a delightful and creative endeavour. By planning your space, embracing a minimalistic approach, utilizing space-saving decorations, and adding your personal touch, you can create a coy and festive atmosphere that makes your compact living space feel like a winter wonderland. 

With the right mix of creativity and holiday spirit, you'll be ready to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in style, no matter how small your space may be.

We feel that you will find these links to previous blogposts on That's Christmas to help you make your apartment or flat feel really Christmassy:-

https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2023/10/11-unique-and-budget-friendly-christmas.html

https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2023/08/why-not-try-crafting-for-christmas.html