Road trip for the festive season is the perfect time for scenic Christmas destinations. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or simply looking for Instagram-worthy destinations, the UK has plenty of magical towns to explore. Experts at Tempcover, specialists in temporary car insurance, have uncovered the top 10 most Instagrammable Christmas towns for road trippers this year.
Rye tops the list of festive road trip gems
Rye in East Sussex takes the crown as the UK’s most Instagrammable Christmas town, with nearly 1.7 million posts on Instagram. This picturesque destination offers cobbled streets, charming boutique shops, and a vibrant Christmas Festival. It’s a must-visit for holidaymakers seeking a perfect blend of festive cheer and scenic beauty.
Whitby and Harrogate follow closely for a road trip
Whitby, with over 1.6 million Instagram posts, secures second place. The coastal town boasts a unique Krampus Run in December and a lively Christmas Festival, featuring festive food, live entertainment, and enchanting lights.
Harrogate comes in third with over one million posts. This Yorkshire town transforms into a winter wonderland with its Christmas Fayre and the Glow light trail at RHS Harlow Carr, where illuminated gardens create a magical evening experience.
More festive destinations to visit
Other Instagrammable towns include:
- Shrewsbury – Famous for its historic streets and cosy Christmas vibes.
- Keswick – Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, it’s a haven for nature lovers during winter.
- Stratford-upon-Avon – Offers a mix of Tudor charm and festive markets.
For the full list of top destinations, visit Tempcover’s guide.
Tips for a safe and festive road trip
Adam Craddock from Tempcover shares essential road trip tips:
- Plan your route: Identify key stops to make the most of your journey.
- Prepare for winter weather: Ensure your car is winter-ready with antifreeze, properly inflated tyres, and a full tank of petrol.
- Get temporary car insurance: If you’re borrowing a car or sharing driving duties, temporary car insurance ensures peace of mind.
Explore the best temporary insurance deals at Tempcover.
| Rank | UK Town | Total Number of Instagram Posts |
| 1 | Rye | 1,699,041 |
| 2 | Whitby | 1,611,486 |
| 3 | Harrogate | 1,025,193 |
| 4 | Shrewsbury | 871,164 |
| 5 | Dover | 737,112 |
| 6 | Keswick | 566,099 |
| 7 | Stratford-upon-Avon | 510,426 |
| 8 | Llandudno | 422,700 |
| 9 | Buxton | 341,934 |
| 10 | Oban | 329,518 |
Parents News UK has an article on road trips with children
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