The Best Twixmas Breaks in the UK 2024
What is Twixmas? | Twixmas UK breaks
The lead-up to Christmas is exciting, with loads to do, from visiting Santa’s grotto to strolling through the Christmas markets or marvelling at the twinkling lights. But once Christmas Day has passed, what’s next? Instead of letting the days slip by, consider a Twixmas camping break in the UK. Relax and recover before the new year at one of these incredible UK destinations. We’ve listed some beautiful winter locations as well as affordable campsites which are open all year round.
Cumbria
Cumbria is the third largest county in the UK and home to the phenomenal Lake District. The county has a bit of everything, from picturesque landscapes and a breathtaking coastline to quaint villages and charming towns.
Popular activities to enjoy in Cumbria during Twixmas include,
- Visiting the Lake District
- Driving on Britain's best road
- Exploring family-friendly attractions
The Lake District is a beautiful camping destination year-round, with plenty to enjoy even in winter. Take a peaceful stroll or challenge yourself with an uphill hike—either way, you’ll encounter spectacular views and beautiful wildlife. Check out these Lake District walks to find a trail that suits you. Afterwards, relax and recharge at one of the many cosy Lake District pubs.
There’s also a lot of history to uncover and quaint towns to explore, like Keswick, Windermere, and Kendal. For more tips on how to make the most of your Twixmas in the Lake District, check out our ultimate guide to the Lake District.
The A591, which stretches for approximately 30 miles across the county, is often hailed as one of the best roads to drive in Britain. It connects Kendal to Keswick and features a series of twists and turns, offering stunning views of the Lakeland fells, as well as access to beautiful locations like Lake Windermere and Lake Thirlmere.
Cumbria is home to many family-friendly attractions, including Castlerigg Stone Circle, Wastwater, The World of Beatrix Potter, The Puzzling Place and the Lakes Aquarium.
Nearby campsites:
- Bowness on Windermere Club Site
- Braithwaite Village Club Site
- Derwentwater Club Site
- Keswick Club Site
- Windermere Club Site
Click here for more information on camping in Cumbria.
East and West Midlands
A Twixmas break in the Midlands is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape in the countryside with easy access to lively cities. Whether exploring the Peak District National Park in Derbyshire or finding things to do in Birmingham, a winter camping getaway offers a refreshing escape.
Popular activities to enjoy in the Midlands during Twixmas include:
- Exploring National Landscapes (AONBs) and National Parks
- Enjoying family-friendly attractions
- Visiting castles and stately homes
The Peak District is a popular National Park in Derbyshire. There’s plenty to do while visiting, including walking, cycling, wildlife watching, rock climbing, and fishing.
Cannock Chase and Malvern Hills, both designated as National Landscapes (AONBs), are also fantastic places to explore in the Midlands. Cannock Chase is well known for its forests, walking trails, and abundant wildlife, while the Malvern Hills is appreciated for its panoramic views, hiking paths, and scenic hilltops.
For those who enjoy scenic walks, Bredon Hill, part of the Cotswolds AONB, is renowned for its sweeping views, historic sites, and diverse wildlife.
The Worcestershire Way is another excellent walking route. Stretching across 31 miles of Worcestershire countryside, it’s perfect for nature lovers looking to experience the area’s beauty.
The Midlands has a range of fun, family-friendly attractions that are open during Twixmas. Visit the animals at the West Midlands Safari Park and Twycross Zoo, or head on down for a thrill-seeking adventure at Alton Towers and Drayton Manor. If you’re not sick of all the festive chocolate you’ve had, pick some more up from the famous Cadbury World.
If you’d rather stay indoors over Twixmas, visit a castle or stately homes. Popular castles in the Midlands include Warwick Castle, Kenilworth Castle and Belvoir Castle. Chatsworth House is also a great place to visit, with a phenomenal art collection and breathtaking gardens. Many of these locations have Christmas lights on throughout December and up until the new year, so book in advance to see them.
Nearby campsites:
- Conkers Club Site
- Nottingham Club Site
- Kingsbury Water Park Club Site
- Blackmore Club Site
- Wolverley Club Site
London
The capital is always worth visiting over the festive period, especially during Twixmas when the streets are still lined with beautiful lights and incredible entertainment. Not only can you bag yourself some excellent Boxing Day sale deals, but you can also explore the city and see what it has to offer.
Popular activities to enjoy in London during Twixmas include:
- Ice skating
- Pantomimes
- Visiting iconic attractions
- Shopping
Every winter, an ice rink is set up in Canary Wharf to bring everyone some festive cheer and create magical memories. This year is no different. Put on your skates and dance around to catchy songs before treating yourself to warm hot chocolate and tasty snacks at the Oasis Bar & Terrace.
You can’t visit London during Twixmas without experiencing one of the city’s incredible pantomimes. Whether it's a classic fairy tale or one with a modern twist, London's theatres come to life during the winter, and they're great for the whole family.
It’s no secret that London is well known for some of its landmarks. Why not visit them while they’re dressed up for Christmas and New Year's? Some iconic landmarks include Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the London Eye, the British Museum, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, the Tower of London, and the Warner Bros Studio.
Christmas can be a costly time of year, so why not set aside a little extra to treat yourself afterwards? London’s Boxing Day sales offer unbeatable discounts, making it the ultimate destination for a bit of retail therapy. Re-energize after the holiday rush by exploring shopping spots like Harrods, Covent Garden, and Westfield London, where you can indulge in everything you’ve been eyeing—all at fantastic prices. It’s the perfect way to start the New Year.
Nearby campsites:
Click here for more campsites in London.
Wiltshire
If you’re a history fanatic, why not spend Twixmas in Wiltshire? This county, nestled in the South West of England, is renowned for its rich archaeological heritage, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. With its strong Roman history, quaint towns and villages, and family-friendly attractions, Wiltshire is a brilliant place to unwind after Christmas.
Popular activities to enjoy in Wiltshire during Twixmas include:
- Visiting historical attractions
- Taking in nature
- Exploring towns and villages
Stonehenge, one of the UK’s most famous tourist attractions, is located in Wiltshire, just an 18-minute drive from our Salisbury Club Site. This prehistoric stone circle is believed to have been constructed between 3000 BC and 2000 BC. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a spiritual landmark for some and a mystery for most.
Other historical attractions to visit in Wiltshire include Avebury, Salisbury Cathedral, Wilton House and Durrington Walls.
Nothing feels more refreshing than wrapping up in layers, going outdoors, and letting that winter breeze brush past you. Exploring Wiltshire’s countryside is an incredible way to do just that during your Twixmas break.
The Wiltshire Way stretches across the picturesque countryside for approximately 100 miles, offering hikers views of charming villages, rolling hills, and stunning landscapes. The North Wessex Downs, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), is another great spot where you can observe beautiful wildlife and breathtaking scenery.
For those interested in watersports, the Cotswold Water Park is an ideal location for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. It’s also fantastic for wildlife watching, walking, and cycling. The Kennet and Avon Canal is a popular boating location and is great for walking and cycling.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly outdoor adventure, visit Longleat Safari Park. During your visit, you’ll see animals from around the world, take part in feeding some animals, and tour Longleat House and Gardens, which features a maze and adventure playground.
Wiltshire is well known for its charming towns and villages, which are steeped in rich history and surrounded by incredible countryside views. Popular cities to visit include Salisbury, Bradford-on-Avon, Lacock, Castle Combe, and Devizes.
Nearby campsites:
Click here for more campsites in Wiltshire.
Scotland
Whether you want to spend Twixmas in the mountains or the brightly lit cities, Scotland is an incredible destination for a relaxing trip. Popular things to do in Scotland during Twixmas include,
- Scotland road trip
- Spot the Loch Ness Monster
- Scotland's mountains, waterfalls and castles
- See the Northern Lights
The famous NC500 is just one of the spectacular Scottish road trips to enjoy. The country has plenty of routes where you can see picturesque landscapes, drive on breathtaking roads, and visit iconic landmarks. Check out our guide to the best Scottish road trips and book an unmissable adventure.
Have you heard about the Loch Ness Monster? The mythical creature in Scottish folklore is said to inhabit Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands. Just minutes away sits the Loch Ness Shores Club Site, which is open throughout Twixmas and the perfect place to rest up before you continue on your quest to find the creature or explore the highlands.
Whether you’re camping in the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, or you prefer to be hidden in the Highlands, there are many breathtaking mountains to climb, waterfalls to see and castles to explore.
Did you know you can see the Northern Lights in the UK? The lights are occasionally visible in certain parts of the country, particularly in Scotland. They typically occur during intense solar storms, when charged particles from the Sun interact with Earth’s atmosphere, and the skies are clear. While the Northern Lights can sometimes be seen in Scotland throughout the year, they are especially vivid and more frequent during the winter months, making them a spectacular sight well worth capturing.
Nearby campsites:
Click here for more campsites in Scotland.
Norfolk
Discover miles of unspoilt coastline, spectacular wildlife and bustling market towns in Norfolk this Twixmas. Popular things to do in Norfolk during Twixmas include,
- Visiting historical sites
- Exploring the Norfolk Coast
- Enjoying family fun attractions
- Sandringham Estate
Norwich Castle provides an incredible glimpse into the city's past. Wander through the Norman keep and see the ancient artefacts or discover the dark tales of the castle's prison. Norwich Cathedral is also worth the visit. Admire the architecture and stained glass windows as you walk around or meditate in the peaceful gardens surrounded by beautiful wildlife.
It might not be the ideal weather to lounge around on the beach and jump in the clear waters, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a relaxing walk down by the coast, capture stunning views and spot wildlife.
Keep the children (and adults) entertained during Twixmas at one of the many family-friendly attractions in Norfolk. Visit Banham Zoo, Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens, Pensthorpe Natural Park or Amazona Zoo to spend time with stunning animals. For mini thrill seekers, BeWILDerwood is a great visit.
Sandringham Estate is a historic royal residence where Queen Elizabeth II traditionally spent Christmas. While visiting, explore the house as well as the stunning gardens with beautiful landscapes, sculptures, and fountains. You’ll also find a museum, church, and a country park featuring scenic walking trails, children’s play areas, and plenty of wildlife to explore. Our Sandringham Club Site is located on the estate and is open throughout Twixmas, making it the ideal spot to rest and recover.
Nearby campsite: Sandringham Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Norfolk.
Kent
Tick the White Cliffs of Dover off your bucket list this Twixmas and discover everything Kent has to offer. Explore its incredible castles, stroll along the scenic coastline, capture stunning landscapes, and enjoy a wonderful getaway. Some popular things to do in Kent over Twixmas include:
- White Cliffs of Dover
- Explore castles
- Discover the outdoors
Rising 350 feet above the English Channel, the White Cliffs of Dover are a striking British landmark that never fails to impress visitors. During your visit, you can learn about this historic site and its vital role in protecting England throughout numerous wars. As you explore the area, you’ll discover scenic walking and cycling paths, visit the historic South Foreland Lighthouse, and wander through Samphire Hoe Nature Reserve, where you can encounter an array of fascinating wildlife.
Kent is home to many spectacular castles steeped in rich history, famous residents and brilliant views. Popular castles to visit include Dover Castle, Leeds Castle, Rochester Castle, and Hever Castle.
While Kent is famous for its Blue Flag beaches, the county offers much more to explore in winter. Enjoy wildlife spotting at Port Lympne Reserve, Howletts Wild Animal Park, or Kent Life Heritage Farm Park. You can also discover stunning walking paths in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Samphire Hoe, Scotney Castle and Gardens, and Mote Park.
Nearby campsite: Canterbury Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Kent.
Cheshire
If you’re looking for a lovely Twixmas break for the whole family, Cheshire is a great county to visit. Popular things to do in Cheshire include:
- Visiting historic attraction
- Going on a family-friendly adventure
- Escaping into the outdoors
Chester Cathedral is a wonderful example of mediaeval architecture with impressive stained glass windows. Another famous historical attraction in Cheshire is the Chester City Walls, where you can see panoramic views of the city as you walk along the well-preserved Roman walls. Nantwich Museum, Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker, and Beeston Castle are also brilliant places to visit for history fanatics.
You can't visit Cheshire without going to Chester Zoo. This is one of the UK’s largest zoos, with over 21,000 animals who call it home. Other fun family activities include visiting the Blue Planet Aquarium, Gulliver's World and the Cotswold Wildlife Park.
A relaxing walk in nature is just what you’ll need to wind down and burn off all the festive treats. Tatton Park, a grand estate with beautiful gardens and a deer park, is perfect for a relaxing walk. Rode Hall and Gardens, Arley Hall and Gardens, Dunham Massey, Cheshire Gardens of Distinction and Anderton Boat Lift, are also scenic places to walk or cycle and clear your mind.
Nearby campsite: Delamere Forest Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Cheshire.
Devon
Devon, home to the iconic Jurassic Coast, is definitely worth the visit any time of year. Whether you’re looking to lounge around, plunge into cold waters or take on thrilling hikes, Devon is a great place to visit during Twixmas. Popular things to do in Devon during Twixmas include,
- Visit the Jurassic Coast
- Discover national parks
- Enjoy family fun attractions
This UNESCO World Heritage Site stretches from Exmouth in East Devon to Old Harry Rocks in Dorset. It's a 95-mile-long beautiful coastline renowned for its geological formations, fossils, and paleontological history. On your visit, you can explore the waters or walk along the coastline and perhaps go fossil hunting yourself.
There are plenty of outdoor spaces to explore on your Twixmas break in Devon. Dartmoor National Park has rugged moorlands, granite tors and pretty valleys. Exmoor National Park, which is nestled in North Devon, offers beautiful coastal scenery and rolling hills. Both national parks are great for walking, cycling and wildlife spotting. Another location for seeing dramatic cliffs, wildlife and enjoying different walking routes is Berry Head National Nature Reserve.
Devon is a great camping destination for children as plenty of family friendly activities are available. Crealy Theme Park is an award-winning theme park with many rides for different ages. Paignton Zoo and Dartmoor Zoo are brilliant for animal lovers as they look after animals from around the world and educate visitors on each species. Another theme park in Devon is The Milky Way Adventure Park, which has a variety of rides, indoor play areas and live entertainment throughout the day.
Nearby campsites: Tavistock Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Devon.
Gloucestershire
Explore the Cotswolds and more by booking a Twixmas break in Gloucestershire. Nestled in the southwest of England, the county has a rich history, breathtaking greenery, and a variety of charming villages that offer a cosy atmosphere during the festive season. Here are some popular things to do in Gloucestershire.
- Explore the Cotswolds
- Forest of Dean
- Water Sports on the River Wye
The Cotswolds is a Natural Landscape (AONB) that stretches over several counties, its main one being Gloucestershire. You’ll find plenty to do in the Cotswolds, including visiting quaint villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Chipping Campden. If you're a history fanatic, historical landmarks and gardens to visit include Sudeley Castle, Snowshill Manor and Garden, and Hidcote Manor Garden.
Twixmas is a great time to wrap up warm and go for a stroll in the fresh outdoors, so make sure you visit Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens and the Slimbridge Wetland Centre, where you can enjoy a lovely hike, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.
Perfect for walkers and cyclists, the Forest of Dean has plenty of varying trails to take on, from sculpture trails with phenomenal art installations to trails that twist and turn through trees and caves.
Fans of Harry Potter and Star Wars can visit Puzzleworld, the enchanting forest which has been a filming location for the two incredible movies.
Thrill seekers will love the incredible water sports activities on the River Wye. This river winds through Wye Valley and offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, rowing, sailing, swimming, and fishing. Make sure you’re well prepared for the cold, though, as it will be freezing!
Nearby campsite: Winchcombe Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Gloucestershire.
What is Twixmas?
Twixmas is a term coined from ‘Christmas’ and ‘betwixt’, meaning the period between Christmas and New Year's. During this time, children have broken up from school, and many people in the UK take time off from work to celebrate the festive period with their loved ones.