My husband and I are going to London for two days - Dec. 26th and 27th. I understand this may be a tough time of year - Boxing day, etc. Is everything closed that time of year? Is there any merit to finding a great hotel/castle outside of London and just spending the two days there? Any suggestions? <BR> <BR>This sounds silly but my husband needed 3,000 more miles on his United card to make preferred status for next year....so off to England for two days...

there are quite a lot of postings on similar topics already going round, but I think you will find London very quiet on Boxing Day. There will be shows and stuff and the sales start on Monday; but if you like the country I think your other idea is great. Go somewhere there's a real community; go to church; it will be all Christmas Carols and really nice. you're unlikely to get snow but crisp country walks, log fires and good food sound like a great break to me.

Karen, Buy the softcover book, Britain by Britrail for many helpful suggestions in case you want to do a short day trip. It lists the train stations, tourist info, etc. Well worth the reference for future use.

I've been there several times on those dates and yes, it is very quiet. Not much open on Boxing Day and the theaters are often closed on Mondays (27th) as well.

Additionally, because Christmas Day and Boxing Day are Saturday and Sunday this year Monday and Tuesday (27/28) will also be holidays 'in lieu'.

We were just in London over Thanksgiving. We spent one night outside the city at the Thornbury Castle and this was really the highlight of our trip. It was pretty east to get to- we took the train and it was about an hour and a half ride. The castle itself is beautiful- I would highly recommend it especially as it appears that most everything in London will be closed. Feel free to E:Mail me if you want more info about the castle.