Limerick - an overlooked Irish gem, Betjeman's Metro-land and UK lakeside winter stays
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Good evening. Santa arriving on a tractor, decorated stately homes, roasting chestnuts and medieval fire festivals … towns around the UK are definitely gearing up for Christmas. Whether it’s a sneaky last-minute break or a sparkly day trip that’s required, our writers have a stocking-full of suggestions of where to head for some Yuletide cheer. Dinky Dunkeld in Perth and Kinross is Christmas-card pretty and offers a wood-fired sauna by the river (“sure to be this season’s hottest hangout”) or a candlelit shopping trail; choirs belt out carols in Arundel’s main square, and visitors flock to the Sussex town’s antique shops, art galleries and independent stores; Cambridge University Botanic Garden has its first ever light trail this year, with illuminated fountains, lakes and trees; while Totnes’ Christmas market includes a vintage carousel, mulled cider and a ukulele singalong. Time to deck the halls and be merry!

Andy Pietrasik
Head of Travel

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Story of the week

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Twinkle towns: eight great places in the UK for a festive getaway. Read more

 

Our travel picks of the week

1

Limerick | The not-so-gritty city is one of Ireland’s overlooked gems. Read more

2

Grand metropolitan | A return trip to John Betjeman’s Metro-land, 50 years on from his classic TV documentary. Read more  

3

Waterfront wonders | 10 glorious lakeside winter stays around the UK. Read more  

 

Featured trip

Umbria, Perugia and Assisi

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Visit the green heart of Italy to discover unspoilt Umbria where archaeological treasures, hearty cuisine and historic sights await.

 

In other news

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Hilly horizons and shooting stars: a car-free adventure across Coniston and south Cumbria

Read more

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This week's favourite trips

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The Ring of Kerry
Discover the lakes and mountains of the Ring of Kerry along with the highlights of south west Ireland from Cork to Bantry House.

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Treasures of Morocco
Journey from Casablanca to Marrakech on this premium adventure exploring diverse cities, the Sahara and the Atlas mountains.

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Christmas in the Norwegian fjords
Explore the beautiful scenery by train and catamaran, enjoy a traditional Norwegian Christmas meal and more…

 

Readers tips

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‘The old town is adorned with twinkling lights’: readers’ favourite Christmas breaks in Europe

Read more

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Deal of the week

Save up to 10% on Wimbledon 2024 breaks

Get ahead of the crowds and book your spot at Wimbledon 2024 and save up to 10% when you book by 22 December 2023 and quote EVENTS10. Prices shown include the discount.

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Image of the week

Highland refuge: Scotland’s serene, socially-conscious hideaway

 
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