December is here, the official countdown to Christmas is underway and households across the UK are looking for last-minute getaways for the festive season. 

Whether you are after a Christmas break or a fun-filled day trip, there are so many options to choose from.

If you are looking for some inspiration, The Guardian has come up with a list of the best festive getaways in the UK to guide you in the right direction. 

The Leader: Looking for a festive getaway this Christmas - here's a few ideas.Looking for a festive getaway this Christmas - here's a few ideas. (Image: Getty Images)

The Guardian list even features a familiar North Wales town, take a look and see.

Best Christmas getaways in the UK

The best places for a Christmas getaway in the UK, according to The Guardian, are: 

  • Buxton
  • Totnes
  • Hereford
  • Cambridge
  • Conwy
  • Dunkeld
  • Arundel
  • Malton

What makes Conwy one of the best places in the UK for a Christmas Getaway?

Conwy, The Guardian, says is "magical at Christmas". 

From its Christmas celebrations to its medieval history that oozes out of the town that "rivals Chester and York", Conwy is well worth a visit during the festive season.

Medieval history

The Guardian said: "Conwy rivals Chester and York for the title of Britain’s best-preserved medieval town, and it is magical at Christmas.

"Visitors can walk the town walls for the best views of the streets, backdropped by Conwy Castle and in the shadow of Eryri (Snowdonia).

"The unbroken fortifications stretch for three-quarters of a mile, with 21 towers and three original gateways (free entry).

"It is also possible to walk a complete circuit around the Unesco-listed castle’s battlements (adult £11.70, child £8.20, under-fives free, open daily in winter except 24-26 Dec and 1 Jan)."

The Leader: Conwy rivals Chester and York when it comes to the UK's best-preserved medieval towns, according to The Guardian.Conwy rivals Chester and York when it comes to the UK's best-preserved medieval towns, according to The Guardian. (Image: Patrick Glover)

Winterfest

Winterfest is set to take place in Conwy on Saturday (December 9) and has a little something for everyone including a range of independent shops to help you find the perfect gift for that special someone this Christmas.

The Guardian, explaining the event, said: "On 9 December, Conwy returns to its medieval roots with Winterfest.

"A jester leads a parade through town, followed by armoured knights carrying blazing torches.

"Entertainment comes from sword fighters, fire performers, Morris dancers, drummers and singers; there is street food such as roast chestnuts, and late-night shopping.

"Speaking of shopping, 92.5% of Conwy’s shops are independents with great Christmas present potential, including the Yesteryears toy emporium, Vinomondo fine wines and the Knight Shop – a historical gift shop with 40 types of sword."

Christmas Eve in Conwy

Christmas Eve is another big day on the Conwy calendar.

The Guardian added: "Christmas Eve is another big day of celebration, with carol singing in Lancaster Square, an appearance from Siôn Corn (Santa Claus) and his sleigh on the castle walls and a fireworks display.

"Children can also meet Santa at the Jester’s Tower, a cafe in a tower built for Edward I more than 700 years ago.

"The cafe’s year-round museum of curiosities, the Secret Repository, is being transformed into a grotto (weekends until 24 Dec)."

Christmas tree festival

There is a Christmas tree festival in St Mary’s Church, which is free to view.

It runs from December 4-9 and includes trees decorated by local schools, groups and businesses, and there is a carol concert on Thursday, December 7.

Winter show at the Royal Cambrian Academy of Art

There is also the annual Winter Show at the Royal Cambrian Academy of Art which spotlights seasonal paintings, prints, photographs, sculptures and textiles by artists with a connection to Wales. 

This is also free to attend and will run until December 30.

Nearby attractions

The Leader: There are plenty of other Christmas activities to enjoy in areas around Conwy including Llandudno.There are plenty of other Christmas activities to enjoy in areas around Conwy including Llandudno. (Image: Patrick Glover)

The walled town of Conwy is also close to a range of other exciting activities and things to do over the festive period. 

The Guardian said: "Llandudno, a neighbouring seaside resort, also has a packed programme for Christmas, including a parade, a 5km Santa Dash and Peter Pan panto.

"Zip World Betws-y-Coed, an attraction half an hour’s drive away, has a new Festive Forest this Christmas. It includes a Polar Coaster Express ride, Snowtop Nets in the woods and a tipi bar."

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Where to stay?

The Guardian recommended the The Castle Hotel, a 19th-century coaching inn, "built on the site of a Cistercian abbey, within the town walls".

There are 29 rooms, a bar, a restaurant and treatment rooms and during December, the hotel serves festive afternoon tea (£21.95) and Christmas dinner (three courses from £32).

Price: From £140 for a double room