United Kingdom in December
Christmas markets and pantomime season fill the cities for three weeks, then the country closes entirely for one day and reopens for Hogmanay.
Is December a good time to visit the United Kingdom?
December sits mid-range in the United Kingdom — around 65/100 nationally. February is noticeably calmer.
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United Kingdom: tours and tickets in London, Edinburgh, from our booking partner.
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Free cancellationWhat closes and what fills up in December
- Christmas Day, 25 December — total national shutdown
- Boxing Day, 26 December
- Hogmanay in Scotland
United Kingdom city by city in December
The same month can feel very different depending where you are.
More tours and tickets
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How December compares across the year
Frequently asked questions
Is December a good month to visit the United Kingdom?
December sits mid-range in the United Kingdom — around 65/100 nationally. February is noticeably calmer.
How busy is the United Kingdom in December?
Averaged across the destinations we track, the United Kingdom sits near 65/100 in December. The calmest of them is Edinburgh.
What is the weather like in the United Kingdom in December?
Expect average highs near 8°C and lows near 3°C, with roughly 12 wet days — though the United Kingdom varies by region.