The festive season is fast approaching and the shops are filling their shelves with gift sets! To beat the December rush, we’ve rounded up five fabulous shopping destinations in the UK, which are guaranteed to add magic and sparkle to this year’s present searching!
Oxford Street, London
A must for those who love the ultimate shopping experience, and not just for Christmas, but all year round! Last year, 40 million shoppers made their pilgrimage to Oxford Street to shop for Christmas presents and there’s no surprise given the sheer variety this famous shopping area has to offer those looking for the perfect gift!
It’s not just about shopping in London; some say it’s the city that never sleeps! The Oxford Street Christmas lights and vibrant atmosphere all add to the excitement of this shopping location! Plus it’s just a short tube ride from Oxford Street to the famous Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park – offering family fun for all! Experience drinking in the ice bar, browsing the traditional Christmas Markets and then end your night with a trip on the Ferris wheel!
If that wasn’t enough to tempt you, the famous Harrods in Knights Bridge is another must-see store during Christmas time with the chance to meet Santa!
For the perfect place to stay after a long day shopping in London, click here.
Brighton and Hove
On a slightly smaller scale than London, Brighton and Hove have a diverse range of shops for you to browse during the festive season! Start your trip with a stroll down The Lanes – narrow streets in Brighton known for a range of shops, including small boutiques, independent shops and bespoke jewellers! It is a great place to go if you are stuck for gift ideas and are looking for something unique! Plus, well known high street stores in Churchill Square, such as Topshop and Debenhams, are also nearby!
Not forgetting, if you are looking to late night shop, the pebble beach is near and offers the perfect opportunity to wander along the promenade and take in the gorgeous Christmas lights! Complete your experience with a warm beverage from one of the local beach cafes!
During a day of intense Christmas shopping, food is a must! Visit the award winning ‘Terre a Terre’, voted best Vegetarian food in the UK. This place offers versatile menus from quirky sharing plates to multi-course set menus. Alternatively, if you have more of a sweet tooth, Brighton is home to the famous Choccywoccydoodah; boasting a selection of chocolate creations for you to taste! If you like what you try, visit the shop downstairs and take some weird but wonderful chocolate treats home!
For a quirky place to rest, browse accommodation in Brighton click here.
Edinburgh
A beautiful city and a great place to shop! Braving the cold is totally worth it to experience the ultimate Scottish Christmas tradition! Edinburgh has so much to see and do with an incredible selection of shops from high street to designer.
Spot designer names like Stella McCartney, Louis Vuitton and Prada or if you prefer more unusual gift ideas then there is a selection of small boutique shops too. Not forgetting the staple high street stores open all year round!
When you’ve ticked Christmas shopping from your to-do-list, enjoy the Edinburgh Christmas Fair hosting a large selection of Christmas rides and a magical Christmas Market, located on East Princes Street Gardens. The fun continues with an ice skating rink and a Christmas Tree Maze. Finish the night with a slice of pizza or churros with melted chocolate sauce from the food market!
After a day of festive fun, find your preferred place to stay! For hotels in Edinburgh, click here.
Bath
If you prefer a traditional Christmas shopping experience then Bath’s selection of markets ticks all the boxes! Twinkling lights and seasonal smells greet shoppers to Bath Christmas Market, while the Christmas Craft Fair at the American Museum is known for selling ceramics, textiles, jewellery and prints! Plus you have the choice between high street shops and independent and boutique style stores! You’re bound to find the perfect gift in this city.
If you are a bit of a self confessed foodie fan then it’s time to treat yourself and book a tour called Savouring Bath, which runs on a Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday! Following the tour guide, you’ll learn about the history of Bath and the places to eat! You’ll visit attractions such as tea houses, farmers markets and hidden gems!
After a day of exploring and shopping, you’ll need somewhere great to stay. To browse accommodation in Bath, click here.
Cardiff
The capital city of Wales is a must for finding the perfect present and it’s known as one of the top ten destinations in Britain for shopping! Following a £675 million extension and refurbishment, the new St. David’s Shopping centre boasts shops such as Apple, Disney Store, and Yankee Candle! The Cardiff Market, established in the 1700s, is another alternative, along with the six Victorian arcades which offer something a little different to high street shopping!
If you have time to explore more of the city and the local attractions, the New Theatre in Park Place is showing Beauty and the Beast from the 8 December to 13 January. The cast features ex Wales rugby captain Gareth Thomas, Lisa Riley, Ben Richards and many more! For a Michelin star experience, The Park House Restaurant and Wine is a grade I listed building and offers guests the ultimate food experience in Cardiff.
To make the most of your visit, turn it into an overnight stay and browse Cardiff accommodation here.
Take the stress out of Christmas shopping and remove any time constraints with help from the team at Infotel! We have a variety of hotels around the UK and are eager to help assist with finding the perfect place to stay. Call the team on 01775 843417 from Monday to Friday during 9:00am until 5:30pm.