Are you looking for the best Christmas day trips near Sheffield? If you’ve exhausted all the Christmas events on offer in Sheffield, from carols to lights, then why not venture further afield. We’ve lined up the best day trips just a train ride away from the Steel City.

York, day trips near Sheffield

1.York 

York is a great day trip destination for many Sheff students, especially at Christmas time. The cobbled, winding streets are adorned with fairy lights and Christmas trees so you feel like the main character in your favourite festive film. 

Check out the Christmas market in St Sampsons square (open until December 23rd) with loads of stalls so you can find the perfect gift for your loved ones. There’s also a Tipi bar just by the station for that last glass of mulled wine before you hop on the train.

Manchester day trips near Sheffield

2.Manchester

Manchester is famous for its Christmas market which will run in Piccadilly Gardens until January 3rd. Dubbed the ‘capital of Christmas’ this market has everything you could want. 

There are a total of 7 more markets expanding across the whole of Manchester so it’s hard to escape the Christmas spirit even for the biggest of scrooges. 

Finally, check out Escape to Freight Island for an ice rink, so you can skate off all the treats you’ve had at the markets.

Leeds day trips near Sheffield

3.Leeds 

Although the famous Christmas market will not be returning to Leeds this year, in its place there will be festive activities for everyone. In Millenium Square, you can find a huge ice rink, igloo bar, food, drinks, and more. 

If you venture further into the centre, it’s worth checking out the Christmas lights in the Victoria Centre, the Arcades and the Corn Exchange.  The combination of the lights with the beautiful architecture creates a spectacular effect.  

Nottingham day trips near Sheffield

4.Nottingham

Take a trip to the Peaks to enjoy the rural Christmas vibes a la Cameron Diaz’s retreat in ‘The Holiday’.  We love Bakewell or Castleton for a day trip, whose cobbled streets and independent shops will be lined with Christmas trees. Maybe take a ramble in the country and finish it up with a well-deserved roast for the ultimate day out.

The Peak District; day trips near Sheffield

5.The Peak District 

After overcrowding saw the market closed after just one day last year, Nottingham’s Christmas market is back with a bang. There’s an Après Ski Bar, the 33m big wheel, a helter skelter, and an igloo village across Old Market square and Trinity Square.

There’s plenty to explore this festive season in and around Sheffield from Nottinghamshire to Derbyshire and beyond, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.