Seasonal Motorhome Adventures: Markets, Lights and Winter Scenery

Whether you prefer traditional markets, quiet countryside or light displays at heritage sites, winter mini-breaks are a great way to get in the festive mood and pick up some unique christmas gifts for friends and family.

In this guide we highlight some fantastic festive destinations that might be closer than you think...

Seasonal Stops in UK Cities

York: The medieval centre glows with warm lights and wooden stalls. Wander narrow lanes, enjoy local produce and visit the Minster for carols.

Edinburgh: With a market beneath the castle and festive music echoing across Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh offers history and winter excitement. Stay a little longer for Hogmanay celebrations.

London: The capital transforms at Christmastime with a wide range of markets and festive landmarks appearing across the city.

From Hyde Park’s famous funfair to riverside food stalls on the Southbank and twinkling West End squares, we've collated a few of our favourites:

Bath: One of the UK’s favourite Christmas settings. Georgian terraces, illuminated chalets and hot springs give Bath a restful festive atmosphere.

Continental Highlights Within Easy Reach

If you’re keen to venture further afield, or you’re a motorhome tourer planning to cross the Channel — there are plenty of wonderful Christmas markets within easy reach.

Cologne delights with its traditional wooden huts and a wide range of themed markets spread across the city.
Strasbourg, known as the Capital of Christmas, enchants visitors with fairy-lit timber houses and historic squares.
Bruges feels like a Christmas card come to life, with its canals, storybook buildings, ice rink, and irresistible chocolate shops.
Vienna captivates with elegant squares, grand palaces, classical winter concerts, and a Christkindlmarkt that’s truly magical.

Winter Nature Escapes

For motorhome owners, Christmas markets aren't the only way to go. Snow-kissed hills and quiet lake shores make winter touring extremely appealing.

Visit the Scottish Highlands for sweeping mountain views, frosty glens, winter wildlife, and cosy Highland inns complete with roaring fires.
Enjoy crisp morning walks in the Lake District, then explore its many village pubs for local ales and relaxed fireside evenings.
The quieter winter season is the perfect time to visit Snowdonia, offering crisp hikes, dramatic scenery, and star-filled nights.
And for those up for a serious road trip, Norway or Lapland delivers breathtaking Northern Lights and true deep-winter landscapes.

Touring Experiences That Bring the Season to Life

The festive season brings countless ways to make your touring adventures feel truly special. From illuminated gardens and nostalgic steam journeys to New Year celebrations in vibrant cities or peaceful countryside retreats, these experiences add a touch of magic to every mile.

Dazzling Light Trails: Throughout December, many stately homes and gardens transform with spectacular illuminated trails. Highlights include:
Christmas at Kew
Blenheim Palace Lights
Longleat Festival of Light
Santa Steam Trains: All aboard for festive nostalgia. Lines such as the Watercress Line offer Christmas journeys complete with Santa visits, decorations, and seasonal treats. Explore more options in the UK Santa Steam Train Guide.
New Year Road Trips: Keep the adventure going into January with a seasonal road trip. Celebrate in style at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, one of the world’s most iconic New Year festivals. Or, choose a peaceful countryside escape. National Trust locations offer tranquil settings perfect for seeing in the New Year under the stars.

Touring Travel Tips for a Smooth Festive Break

Whether you're exploring Christmas markets, heading into the hills, or taking a festive road trip abroad, a little preparation goes a long way. Winter touring comes with its own set of considerations, so keeping a few practical tips in mind will help ensure your festive break is safe, comfortable, and stress-free.

Check campsite winter opening schedules
Carry warm bedding and heating fuel
Monitor weather and road conditions
Plan secure parking near city centres
Abroad: carry required winter kit and documents

Make the Most of Your Grove & Dean Cover This Christmas

From Christmas markets and illuminated gardens to peaceful winter landscapes and lively New Year celebrations, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy a festive escape. Whether you choose a buzzing city break, a quiet countryside retreat, or a road trip across Europe, winter touring offers atmosphere, adventure, and the chance to discover somewhere new. And with your Grove & Dean insurance policy including 90 days of EU cover, there’s never been a better time to make the most of the season and explore a little further afield this Christmas.