Christmas holidays can be a great way to spend some time with the family.

But hopping on a plane and enjoying a two week holiday just isn't feasible for most with time constraints over the festive period. 

Alas, all is not lost. A mini break can be the perfect way to spend a few days away from home, either in the UK or abroad, without breaking the bank.

The best time to book is between Christmas and New Years with these beautiful spots on offer.

UK: 

The Nest, Canterbury, Kent

The first-floor apartment is just a few minutes from the high street and is perfect for a romantic retreat.

Canterbury offers a relaxing break visiting the famous cathedral, punting down the River Stour or exploring the medieval city.

Luckily there is a range of trendy cocktail bars and restaurants a stone's throw away for the colder nights.

£500, 26-30 December. 

Cranmer Hall Barn, North & South Creake, Norfolk

Built in the 1800's, the four sleeping barn with marble bathrooms and Swedish wood burner is a stylish yet cosy break away.

Explore Burnham Market and the sandy beaches in Thornham, despite the cooler weather, or stay warm in the royal estate of Sandringham.

Cycling enthusiasts can also explore the surrounding Area of Natural Beauty (AONB). 

£1,261, 26-30 December. 

Balmer Lawn hotel and Spa, New Forest

The four-star former hunting lodge is surrounded by the open forest and wild ponies and horses to visit.

With its own microbrewery, homemade artisan food as well as two swimming pools, a spa, sauna and sports courts, the luxury retreat offers everything for anyone.

Being dog-friendly means all the family can join for some peace and quiet away from the busy life.

£289 per night incl bed and breakfast, 26-30 December.

EUROPE: 

Garbi Millenni Hotel, Barcelona, Spain

Located in the heart of Barcelona, the Garbi Millenni Hotel is a short walk from Port Vell and the city's shopping and historical centre.

Park Guell and Las Ramblas are likely to be much quieter offseason and great to be explored in the lower climate.

Otherwise, the hotel offers a rooftop terrace and jacuzzi for the darker evenings to be spent inside.

£333.98 incl flights, 27-30 December. 

Torassieppi, Lapland, Finland

Torassieppi, a a heavily-forested area located on the edge of Torasjarvi Lake has nearly no light pollution, meaning a great chance to see the Northern Lights.

The four-night break includes a stay at the Lainio Snow Hotel, which is rebuilt every year, as well as a visit to a reindeer farm, Finnish cooking lessons, skiing and other snowy expeditions.

Being home to the indigenous Sami people, the back to nature break feels worlds away from the bustling UK.

£1,755 incl flights, transfers, four nights’ full board accommodation, activities, guides and cold weather clothing, 26-29 December.

Galo BodyBreak, Portugal

For anyone who overindulged on Christmas, a fitness mini-break is a great alternative holiday choice.

The luxury wellness Galo Resort on the island of Madeira has championship level golf courses. fitness centres and exercises including yoga, paddle boarding or even triathlon training

Otherwise, the spa does everything from massages and facials to beauty treatments and therapeutic cures for a post-holiday treat to welcome in the new year.

£580 incl flights, transfers and daily breakfast, three nights.