UK city with 'must-see' Christmas market named best place to visit in winter

As Christmas draws near, Brits are getting into the festive mood by snapping up last-minute staycations. Forget jetting off to sunnier climes; for those keen to revel in the winter wonderland vibes, the UK boasts a host of stunning locations that truly come alive during the colder months. The holiday gurus over at Hot Tub Breaks have crunched the numbers to reveal the top UK towns and cities for a cosy winter getaway.

Their study took into account hotel costs, average snowfall, dining affordability, Instagram buzz based on seasonal posts, and Google searches from folks looking to visit these spots in winter. Each aspect was rated out of 10 – with zero being a no-go for winter jaunts and 10 being peak perfection. These scores were then tallied to give an overall index out of 100, ranking the best places to hunker down this season.

Charlie Howes, director at Hot Tub Breaks, remarked: "While it may be tempting to escape the cold weather and book a last-minute trip abroad, it can be costly or require too much time off work for many people – and most of us want to be close to home with loved ones during the holiday." He added: "There are many magnificent towns and cities to choose from, and you are likely to have a wonderful time with friends or family wherever you go." Here's a rundown of the top UK winter breaks, complete with their total index score out of 100: 1.

Edinburgh - 63.70 The area that was revealed as the best for winter breaks was Edinburgh, with an overall index score of 63.7 out of 100.

Many people were interested in visiting Edinburgh over the season, and it ranked best in average monthly searches with a total of 130,000, generating a score of 7.66 out of 10 for this factor. Edinburgh is home to a host of attractions that make it the perfect place to visit during winter.

Edinburgh’s Christmas markets are a must-see, whereas the frosty Scottish weather enhances the beauty of historic sites such as Calton Hill, Arthur’s Seat and Edinburgh Castle. If you’re seeking breathtaking scenery over the Christmas period, Edinburgh is the place for you. 2.

Blackpool - 63.39 Blackpool ranked second, generating an index score of 63.39 out of 100.

Blackpool performed well in both hotel and meal affordability, with scores of 10 and 9.75 out of 10, respectively. This equated to average costs of £72.

18 for a room per night and £45 for a three-course meal for two. While a seaside town may not be the most obvious choice for a winter break, its low expense is a big draw. Plus, Blackpool’s beaches are delightful at this time of year – just remember to wrap up.

3. Glasgow - 62.92 Following in third place was Glasgow, with an index score of 62.

92 out of 100. Glasgow ranked high due to the city’s affordable hotel prices, corresponding to an average room price of £102.39 per night.

Scotland ’s biggest city is a wonderful winter destination, not only for its affordability but also for its variety of cultural attractions. A trip to the Scottish Opera, Ballet, or National Theatre would be an enchanting addition to any Christmas holiday. 4.

Manchester - 61.82 In fourth was Manchester, with an index score of 61.82 out of 100.

As a major shopping hub, Manchester is the ultimate match for shopaholics, regardless of whether you’re looking to buy locally sourced gifts for your loved ones or make the most of the Boxing Day sales. 5. Birmingham - 58.

92 Rounding out the top five was Birmingham, with an index score of 58.92 out of 100. Birmingham was deemed another hotspot for affordable hotels over the Christmas period, with an average room costing £104.

26 per night. Birmingham is bustling and full of life over the holidays, with the city offering plenty of things to do. Whether you want to go ice skating, enjoy some festive chocolate at Cadbury World with the family, or have a mulled wine down the pub, Birmingham is one of the best places to be this Christmas.

6. Nottingham - 58 Nottingham ranked sixth, generating an index score of 58 out of 100. Nottingham performed well in both hotel and meal affordability, with scores of 8.

77 and 9.75 out of 10, respectively. This equated to average costs of £90.

95 per night for a room and £45 for a 3-course meal for two. 7. Liverpool - 57.

40 Taking the seventh spot was Liverpool, with an overall index score of 57.4 out of 100. Bar Hütte is a highlight of the port city over Christmas – situated in Chavasse Park, it has a range of entertainment, treats and alpine-themed drinks available.

8. Aberdeen - 56.96 Ranking eighth was Aberdeen, with an overall index score of 56.

96 out of 100. The Aberdeen Christmas Village offers everything tourists and residents alike could need over Christmas, plus the newly introduced Christmas Light-up trail is an exquisite way to explore the city. 9.

York - 55.21 Placing ninth was York, with an index score of 55.21 out of 100.

If you opt to visit York, you could enjoy some candlelit carols at York Minster or venture down the beloved cobbled streets, which are even more magical at Christmas. 10. Sheffield - 54.

50 Sheffield followed in tenth, with an index score of 54.5 out of 100. Sheffield is an excellent base for Brits wanting to celebrate in a welcoming city while venturing out to nearby attractions.

Chatsworth House is just a few miles away and provides a relaxed, cosy day out..