United Kingdom

United Kingdom in December

Europe Updated 2026-07-01

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 United Kingdom?

December sits mid-range in United Kingdom — around 65/100 nationally. February is noticeably calmer.

What 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.

City Crowd High Wet days
Edinburgh 62 7°C 12
London 68 9°C 11

How December compares across the year

Book things to do

United Kingdom: tours and tickets in London, Edinburgh, from our booking partner.

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Frequently asked questions

Is December a good month to visit United Kingdom?

December sits mid-range in United Kingdom — around 65/100 nationally. February is noticeably calmer.

How busy is United Kingdom in December?

Averaged across the destinations we track, United Kingdom sits near 65/100 in December. The calmest of them is Edinburgh.

What is the weather like in United Kingdom in December?

Expect average highs near 8°C and lows near 3°C, with roughly 12 wet days — though United Kingdom varies by region.

Other months in United Kingdom