If you're looking for a real escape from all the hustle and bustle of everyday life this winter, then a family Christmas break in the UK might just be what you're in need of.
There are plenty of UK staycation options for the whole family to enjoy around this time of year that don't involve getting everyone on a busy flight Home Alone style. We're lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world, meaning the options really are endless, from cosy woodland retreats to fun theme park hotel stays.
So, whether you're in need of inspiration or need someone to do the hard work for you for a stress free Christmas, we've got you covered with plenty of family Christmas breaks in the UK to choose from. All you need to remember is the matching family Christmas pyjamas!
LEGOLAND®, Windsor, Santa Sleepovers
Christmas time is arguably the best time to enjoy LEGOLAND® with plenty of events and festive fun to keep you and your little ones entertained. Although they close on Christmas and the bank holiday's, you can enjoy a break in the run up to Christmas and the twixmas period before New Year.
As well as being able to see the giant DUPLO® Christmas Tree up close and the festive attractions, you'll also get the chance to meet Santa too.
Price for a family of 4: From £397 for a family of 4 for a Santa Sleepover and breakfast, including 1-day entry to Legoland
Age suitability: 3-12
Getting there: Parking is free at Resort Hotel, nearest train station: Windsor & Eaton Central (LEGOLAND shuttle), Windsor & Eaton Riverside (10 minute walk)
Dates: 27th – 30th December or 1st – 3rd January for New Year's breaks
Pros: Stays at the resort includes story time with Santa, access to the swimming pool and a free LEGO® set in every room.
Cons: Some rides can close in the cold or rainy weather, food isn't the best quality
Alton Towers Santa Sleepovers
There's so much going on at Alton Towers theme park at this time of year. As well as getting the chance to visit the famous CBeebies Land, there's the Lightopia Christmas Light Trail plus a Santa Sleepover where you'll get to meet the big man himself.
While most parents of younger kids opt to stay in the CBeebies Land hotel, there is also Splash Landings Hotel, Woodland Lodges and Alton Towers Hotel to choose from.
Price for a family of 4: From £415 for a family of 4 for a Santa Sleepover with breakfast and an evening meal, including entry to the park, light show, waterpark, crazy golf, Santa's Grotto.
Age suitability: 1-6
Getting there: Parking is free at the Resort Hotel, nearest train station: Uttoxeter Station (10 miles)
Dates: 2nd – 23rd December
Pros: Both evening meal and breakfast included as well as other extras including water park, light trail and crazy golf
Cons: Some rides can close in the cold or rainy weather, some parents commented that the food isn't the best quality
Centre Parcs Festive breaks
Although it's a bit more expensive than other options, a magical stay at Centre Parcs is ideal for getting larger families together. Unlike other options they open for the entire Christmas season so you can spend your actual Christmas day there.
There's plenty to do while you're there, from swimming to sports and various restaurants. There are also six different locations to choose from around the UK, meaning it's easy to find one convenient for the whole family.
In terms of accommodation, there's a huge range of options including lodges, apartments and even treehouses for your little one to explore.
Price for a family of 4: From £899 for a family of 4 for a 3-night festive break on self-catering basis. Entry to Santa’s Woodland Village and the Enchanted Light Garden, festive storytime and Santa’s Village Tour.
Age suitability: 1-10
Getting there: Car parking available at the park.
Dates: Monday November 7, 2022 until Monday January 2, 2023
Pros: Safe for the whole family, car free setting, self-catering making it great for fussy eaters.
Cons: Expensive
Warwick Castle, Santa Sleepover
Warwick Castle has a magical feel to it all year round, but especially at Christmas time, there's something so special about spending time there. On selected dates throughout the winter, you and your family can enjoy a Santa sleepover in the cosy Knight's Village with your very own elf wake up call.
During the winter months, the castle and its grounds are also transformed into a winter wonderland, with colourful lights and seasonal decorations to really get you and your family in the festive spirit.
Price for a family of 4: From £439 for a family of 4 for an overnight Santa Sleepover with two day entry to park with breakfast.
Age suitability: 1-10
Getting there: Free car parking at the resort. Warwick train station is just 1 mile away.
Dates: November 25, 2022 until December 23, 2022
Pros: Breakfast included as well as wake up to the sound of sleigh bells with your very own elf wake-up call where Santa’s cheerful elves will bring a present for little ones.
Cons: Expensive
Butlin's Christmas Festive Wonderland
We're huge fans of a Butlin's break here at Mother&Baby. Not only is it a more affordable option if you're doing Christmas on a budget (something we're all looking for in the current climate), but there is also plenty to keep our tots entertained.
Not only will there be festive themed shows on each day, there'll also be firework displays, festive cinemas, festive pottery painting and lantern making as well as Butlin's usual activities including the swimming!
Price for a family of 4: From £150 for a family of 4 for a 3-night stay with plenty of activities and things to do, and a range of food options.
Age suitability: 1-11
Getting there: Free car parking at the resort.
Dates: November 28, 2022 - January 2, 2023
Pros: Affordable, entertainment and festive activities included, waterpark entry included.
Cons: Can get busy around this time of year