Christmas staycations: check out the UK’s best Christmas markets with a festive home swap

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland in London:

Stylish flat: https://www.lovehomeswap.com/home-exchange/united-kingdom/marylebone-architect-designed-family-flat-in-marylebone

Located in central Marylebone, this stylish flat is only a ten-minute walk to Oxford Street, Regent’s Park and the world-renowned Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. During the winter period, Hyde Park is transformed into a magical utopia with sparkling lights and festive cheer. Take your pick from a huge choice of activities including ice-skating, roller-coaster rides, street food, festive bars and live music… and join in the yuletide shenanigans!

Manchester Christmas Market:

Beautiful four-bedroom home: https://www.lovehomeswap.com/home-exchange/united-kingdom/stylish-house-in-trendy-neighbourhood

This recently renovated 1930’s home is set in front of a 20-acre country park, with its own private access and unobstructed woodland views. Only a six-minute train ride to Manchester city centre, you can discover the city’s festive food stalls, bars and market, as well as a giant Santa and the Christmas light trail. As this is the homeowners’ first place together, their efforts in turning this house into a home has been a labour of love – and with its brand-new luxury bathroom and a large open-plan kitchen, you won’t find a better base for your festive fun.

Belfast City Hall Christmas Market:

Town house with a river view: https://www.lovehomeswap.com/home-exchange/united-kingdom/stunning-river-and-samson-and-goliath-tranquil-view

Peacefully located adjacent to the Ormeau Embankment and within walking-distance of the City Hall Christmas Market, you’re bound to feel festive as you wander the streets of Belfast. Grab a crêpe and mulled wine via the much-loved carousel, then meander back to your home swap to experience the absolute tranquillity of this unique townhouse. Make yourself at home with a festive movie – though you might be distracted by the serene views of the River Lagan.

Bristol Christmas Market:

Contemporary Georgian villa: https://www.lovehomeswap.com/home-exchange/united-kingdom/contemporary-georgian-villa-in-clifton-village

Nestled in the heart of the city is where you’ll find this stunning family home. Just a short walk from the vast array of delicious food and drink options that are available at Bristol’s Christmas Market, this is a great chance to let your hair down for some Christmassy fun. Back at home, this contemporary villa oozes class throughout, with authentic Georgian features, natural-light-filled rooms and a cosy log burner.

Edinburgh Princes Street Gardens Market:

Central apartment: https://www.lovehomeswap.com/home-exchange/united-kingdom/edinburgh-apartment-with-views

Crank up the ambience and let the festivities roll when you enter the Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market. With its classic fairground rides, sweet crêpes and famous scotch at the Johnnie Walker whisky bar, you’re sure to have a grand time. If you’re feeling particularly merry, take some time to explore local hotspots including Edinburgh Castle and multiple museums, before heading back to the balcony of this central apartment where you can soak up the views of the beautifully-lit city.

Winter Wonderland in Nottingham:

Traditional detached house: https://www.lovehomeswap.com/home-exchange/united-kingdom/traditional-city-detached-house

Nottingham is a glorious city in which history seamlessly blends with modern culture – which makes for a great festive break. You can discover the wonders of Nottingham straight from this traditional home which is situated within walking distance of the infamous Winter Wonderland. Let your taste buds run riot with countless festive cuisines on offer, including bratwursts, crêpes and Bailey’s hot chocolate! With customary Christmas features such as a gorgeous open fireplace, this home truly makes for a cosy staycation.

York Christmas Market:

Town house: https://www.lovehomeswap.com/home-exchange/united-kingdom/modern-comfortable-town-house-in-the-centre-york

Situated down a peaceful road, this stunning townhouse is just a five-minute walk from the city centre which holds the famous York Christmas Market. Here, you can experience the buzz of the city, while enjoying the assortment of local produce and international street food on offer – top your exploration off with a hand-warming hot chocolate or a mug of mulled wine.