The festive season is a time for magic, memories, and a well-deserved rest. Instead of the usual routine, why not whisk your loved ones away on one of the UK's enchanting Christmas short breaks? From the twinkling lights of a bustling city market to the quiet serenity of a snow-dusted forest cabin, there's a perfect festive escape waiting for every type of traveller. This guide is designed to help you navigate the best options available, ensuring your holiday planning is filled with joy, not stress.
We'll explore a variety of getaways tailored to different tastes and budgets, whether you're organising a romantic retreat for two, a fun-filled family adventure, or a peaceful solo trip to recharge. Forget endless searching; this comprehensive roundup presents the top destinations and providers for unforgettable Christmas short breaks. We will delve into specific itineraries, highlight family-friendly features, and offer practical booking tips to help you craft an unforgettable holiday experience with minimal hassle.
For those seeking a truly unique and cosy experience, a more intimate and traditional short break might be found in a charming Bed and Breakfast, offering a personal touch to your festive getaway. Throughout this guide, we will cover everything from action-packed holiday parks and luxurious adult-only hotels to secluded countryside cottages. Let's unwrap the best festive breaks the UK has to offer, helping you find the perfect setting to make lasting memories this winter.
1. Short Breaks & Weekends Away by Activity Superstore
For those seeking both variety and convenience when planning festive getaways, Activity Superstore’s dedicated short breaks hub stands out as a premier destination. It masterfully consolidates a vast portfolio of UK-based escapes, transforming the often-complex process of booking a memorable Christmas short break into a streamlined, gift-ready experience. Rather than being just a booking platform, it functions as a curated marketplace of experiences, ideal for both personal travel and gifting.
The platform’s core strength lies in its exceptional breadth and thoughtful organisation. It moves beyond standard hotel stays to offer a diverse range of getaways, ensuring there’s an option perfectly suited to any festive mood or recipient. Whether you envision a cosy countryside retreat surrounded by frosty landscapes, a vibrant city break exploring Christmas markets, or a rejuvenating spa weekend, the selection is both extensive and easy to navigate.
Why It Excels for Christmas Breaks
Activity Superstore is engineered for effortless discovery and gifting, a feature that becomes particularly valuable during the busy festive season. The user interface allows for intuitive filtering by region, budget, and break type, enabling you to quickly pinpoint the perfect escape.
- Exceptional Gifting Functionality: The platform’s voucher system is a key differentiator. You can purchase a specific break or opt for a "Mega Choice" voucher, which allows the recipient to choose their own adventure from a wide selection. This flexibility removes the guesswork and stress from gift-giving. Features like instant eVouchers are a lifesaver for last-minute presents.
- Curated and Vetted Selection: Confidence in quality is paramount when booking a break. Activity Superstore addresses this by featuring staff-tested recommendations and working with a broad network of partner venues. This curation helps ensure that the experiences meet a consistent standard of quality and enjoyment.
- UK-Wide Coverage: From the Scottish Highlands to the Cornish coast, the platform provides comprehensive coverage across the UK. This makes it easy to find a convenient Christmas short break close to home or to explore a new region entirely.
- Themed and Inclusive Packages: Many options are more than just a room for the night. You can easily find packages that include dinner, spa treatments, or other activities, creating a complete and hassle-free getaway. For a great example of a flexible and popular option, you can learn more about their Two Night Hotel Escape voucher here.
Practical Tips for Booking
To make the most of the platform, especially for a Christmas trip, it’s wise to book in advance. Popular venues and peak festive dates can get snapped up quickly. When browsing, pay close attention to the details of what’s included with each voucher, as extras like meals or specific room types can vary between partner hotels. Finally, keep an eye out for seasonal promotions, which often provide excellent value.
Website: https://www.activitysuperstore.com/short-breaks
| Feature Analysis | Key Advantages |
|---|---|
| Variety of Stays | Huge selection of city, countryside, spa, and glamping breaks. |
| Gifting System | Flexible vouchers, "Mega Choice" options, and instant eVouchers. |
| User Experience | Intuitive filters for location, price, and recipient. |
| Booking Flexibility | Vouchers offer extended validity, allowing recipients to book at their convenience. |
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Huge variety of break styles across the UK, designed specifically for easy gifting, and includes vetted and recommended venues.
- Cons: Availability for popular hotels can be limited during peak times; check specific voucher terms as supplements may apply at some venues.
2. Center Parcs
For families seeking an all-in-one, weather-proof festive getaway, Center Parcs is an institution. Its UK villages transform into magical Winter Wonderlands from early November to early January, making it a prime destination for a Christmas short break where everything you need is conveniently located on-site. The entire experience is tailored for families, especially those with young children or multigenerational groups, ensuring the festive spirit is alive and well, regardless of the British weather.
The core of the Center Parcs festive offering is its immersive atmosphere. Villages are adorned with enchanting light displays, festive decorations, and even Santa's Woodland Village, complete with elves and a grotto experience. The platform allows you to book self-catering accommodation ranging from comfortable woodland lodges and modern apartments to spectacular, luxurious treehouses.
Key Features & Booking Tips
The Center Parcs website is the central hub for planning your entire trip. It clearly outlines the specific dates for its dedicated Christmas breaks (typically around 19th–27th December) and New Year breaks (27th December–2nd January). Beyond accommodation, you can pre-book a vast array of festive activities directly through their portal.
- Festive Activities: Options often include festive pottery painting, horse and carriage rides, and meeting Santa and his reindeer.
- Core Attractions: All breaks include access to the famous Subtropical Swimming Paradise, a huge indoor water park heated to a balmy 29.5°C year-round.
- Booking Strategy: The dynamic pricing model means that costs escalate significantly closer to the date, especially for peak Christmas week. Booking well in advance (often up to a year ahead) is crucial to secure availability and better pricing. Activity slots, particularly for Santa's Grotto, also fill up fast, so book these as soon as they become available. To make the stay even more magical, consider how you can bring the festive spirit into your lodge; preparing the best Christmas gift for kids to be discovered on Christmas morning can create an unforgettable memory.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| One-stop Destination: Everything is on-site, from activities to restaurants. | High Peak-Season Cost: Christmas week breaks are a significant investment and can be very expensive. |
| Weather-Proof Fun: Extensive indoor facilities ensure a great time whatever the weather. | Advance Booking Essential: Popular activities and accommodation sell out months, sometimes a year, in advance. |
| Multigenerational Appeal: Activities and accommodation cater to all ages. | Additional Costs: While the accommodation price is fixed, most activities come at an extra cost. |
Center Parcs excels at creating a self-contained, hassle-free festive bubble, perfect for families who want to park the car and simply enjoy a curated Christmas short break without the stress of external planning.
Website: https://www.centerparcs.co.uk/breaks-we-offer/winter-and-festive-breaks.html
3. Butlin's
For families looking for an action-packed and entertainment-filled festive holiday, Butlin's offers a high-energy alternative for a Christmas short break. Its three seaside resorts in Bognor Regis, Minehead, and Skegness transform into bustling winter wonderlands, specifically designed for families who want non-stop fun and a schedule bursting with live shows, character appearances, and festive activities, all included in the price. This makes it an excellent value-for-money option for those with children to keep entertained.
The entire Butlin's experience is centred around a lively, entertainment-led atmosphere. From late November through to the New Year, the resorts are alive with festive cheer, featuring spectacular Christmas shows, meet-and-greets with characters like Father Christmas, and plenty of seasonal arts and crafts. Accommodation options range from practical self-catering apartments to hotel rooms and dining plans, allowing families to choose the style that best suits their needs and budget.
Key Features & Booking Tips
The Butlin's website is the go-to place for organising your festive break, offering clear details on their "Christmas Fantasy," "Festive Fun," and "Twixmas" breaks. These breaks are typically available for three, four, or seven nights, providing flexibility. The platform allows you to see the full entertainment schedule and book your accommodation and dining plan in one simple process.
- All-Inclusive Entertainment: The core appeal is the sheer volume of included entertainment. Your break price covers dazzling festive-themed stage shows, family films, access to the indoor Splash Waterworld, and unlimited rides on the traditional fairground.
- Flexible Stays: You can choose from various break lengths, including the popular "Twixmas" period between Christmas and New Year, which is perfect for extending the festive celebrations.
- Booking Strategy: Butlin's often runs early booking offers that can provide significant savings. Booking well in advance is highly recommended, not just for the best price but also to secure your preferred accommodation type, especially during the school holidays. While much of the entertainment is walk-in, check the schedule upon arrival for any high-demand shows that might require you to arrive early to get a good seat.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent Value: A huge amount of entertainment and activities are included. | Very Family-Focused: The lively atmosphere may not suit couples or those seeking a quiet escape. |
| Multiple UK Locations: Resorts in Bognor, Minehead, and Skegness offer choice. | Can Be Crowded: Peak dates are very busy, and popular shows and venues can get crowded. |
| Flexible Packages: Choice of self-catering or dining plans to suit budgets. | Planning Needed for Shows: Securing good seats for the most popular performances may require queuing. |
Butlin's excels at delivering a vibrant, hassle-free festive package where entertainment is the star. It's the ideal choice for families wanting a fun-filled Christmas short break without the worry of planning daily activities or the burden of extra costs.
Website: https://www.butlins.com/breaks/2025-breaks/christmas
4. Warner Hotels
For adults seeking a festive escape without the family hustle and bustle, Warner Hotels offers a sophisticated and all-inclusive alternative. Specialising in adults-only short breaks, their country estates and coastal properties across England and Wales provide a refined setting for a Christmas celebration. The entire experience is curated for couples or groups of friends who want a pre-planned, stress-free festive break where dining, entertainment, and yuletide cheer are all bundled into one seamless package.
The appeal of a Warner Hotels Christmas break lies in its combination of classic festive traditions and relaxing, grown-up fun. Properties are beautifully decorated, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy carol singing, gala dinners, and live evening entertainment, all included in the price. The platform allows you to book specific festive packages, such as dedicated 4-night Christmas breaks, "Twixmas" stays, or early "Turkey & Tinsel" themed getaways.
Key Features & Booking Tips
The Warner Hotels website is designed for easy navigation, allowing you to filter by hotel location, date, and type of festive break. The all-inclusive nature of their packages makes planning remarkably straightforward, as the core elements of your holiday are sorted in a single booking.
- Inclusive Packages: Most festive breaks include accommodation, breakfast and three-course evening meals, and a full programme of live music, shows, and daytime activities.
- Clearly Defined Calendars: The site clearly outlines the different festive options, including the main Christmas break (typically 23rd–27th December) and New Year celebrations, helping you choose the perfect dates.
- Booking Strategy: While last-minute deals can sometimes appear, the best-located rooms in the most popular hotels for Christmas week get booked up months in advance. Booking early is recommended to secure your preferred property and room type. Check the specific itinerary for your chosen hotel, as entertainment and activities can vary between locations.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adults-Only Environment: Perfect for couples and friends seeking a quiet, child-free Christmas. | Excludes Families: The strict adults-only policy means it is not an option for those with children. |
| Budgeting is Simple: The inclusive nature of the packages means fewer unexpected costs. | Less Flexibility: The fixed itinerary and dining times may not suit travellers who prefer spontaneity. |
| Stress-Free Planning: Everything from meals to entertainment is organised for you. | Popularity: Prime locations for the key Christmas dates can sell out very quickly. |
Warner Hotels excels at delivering a polished, relaxing, and entertaining Christmas short break for an adult audience. It is the ideal choice for anyone looking to be completely taken care of, enjoying festive food and fun in a comfortable and scenic setting.
Website: https://www.warnerhotels.co.uk/breaks/festive-breaks/christmas-breaks
5. Forest Holidays
For those dreaming of a peaceful, nature-immersed festive escape, Forest Holidays offers the perfect antidote to the high-energy buzz of larger resorts. It provides a quieter, more intimate setting for a Christmas short break, focusing on cosy woodland cabins nestled within 13 stunning UK forest locations. This option is ideal for couples, families, and small groups who want to reconnect with nature and each other, with the forest itself as the main attraction.
The experience centres around stylish, self-catering cabins that blend seamlessly into their surroundings, complete with private hot tubs for stargazing on crisp winter nights. The platform allows you to book your stay and enhance it with charming festive extras, creating a personalised and magical retreat away from the crowds. From waking up to frosty forest views to enjoying a walk amongst the pines, it’s a truly restorative Christmas getaway.
Key Features & Booking Tips
The Forest Holidays website makes it easy to find your ideal woodland retreat, with clear pricing and availability for its locations, which stretch from Loch Long in Scotland to Deerpark in Cornwall. The platform is designed to help you tailor your break, offering a range of cabin sizes (sleeping 2–10 guests) and optional festive add-ons to make your stay special.
- Festive Add-ons: You can pre-book extras like an in-cabin Christmas tree and decorations, festive craft kits, and guided winter walks with a Forest Ranger.
- Core Attractions: Every cabin includes its own private outdoor hot tub. Many also feature a classic log-burning stove for the ultimate cosy atmosphere. Pet-friendly cabins are widely available.
- Booking Strategy: Peak Christmas dates (e.g., a 4-night break from 23rd December) carry premium pricing and book up quickly. Booking several months in advance is recommended to secure your preferred cabin and location. Keep an eye on the website for seasonal offers, such as discounts on winter bike hire, which are clearly communicated. If you're seeking a similar back-to-nature escape, you might also be interested in a family glamping pod experience for another short break.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quiet, Back-to-Nature Escape: Perfect for a peaceful, restorative break. | Low-key On-site Entertainment: Fewer scheduled activities compared to larger resort parks. |
| Private Hot Tubs: A luxurious feature included with every cabin. | Car Often Recommended: Locations are often rural, making a car useful for exploring the area. |
| Festive Add-Ons: Easy to create a personalised Christmas experience. | Variable Pricing: Costs can differ significantly between locations and cabin grades. |
Forest Holidays excels at delivering a serene and magical Christmas short break, allowing you to create your own festive traditions in the heart of the UK's beautiful woodlands.
Website: https://www.forestholidays.co.uk/whats-on/christmas-breaks/
6. Sykes Holiday Cottages
For those who dream of a bespoke, self-catered Christmas in a home-away-from-home setting, Sykes Holiday Cottages is an essential resource. It operates as a vast online marketplace, offering thousands of independent cottages, lodges, and holiday homes across the UK. This platform excels at giving you the freedom to design your perfect festive escape, whether you envision a cosy coastal retreat with bracing walks, a secluded rural hideaway with a roaring fire, or a luxurious modern barn conversion for the whole family.
The core strength of Sykes is the sheer variety and granular search functionality it provides. You can easily filter through an extensive inventory to find properties available specifically for Christmas and New Year. The platform allows you to handpick a property that matches your exact needs, from dog-friendly cottages to homes with bubbling hot tubs, games rooms, or stunning countryside views, making it a go-to for planning a personalised Christmas short break.
Key Features & Booking Tips
The Sykes Holiday Cottages website is designed for easy navigation, with dedicated sections for Christmas and New Year bookings. Live pricing and availability are clearly displayed, and the platform allows for flexible stay durations, often from three to seven nights, which is ideal for a short break.
- Extensive Filtering: Search for properties based on location, party size, and crucial festive amenities like an open fire, hot tub, or enclosed garden for pets.
- User Reviews: Each listing features detailed reviews and ratings from previous guests, which are invaluable for gauging the quality and real-life experience of a property.
- Booking Strategy: Christmas week is the most sought-after period. Book as early as possible (many properties are booked 9-12 months in advance) to secure the best homes. Use the map view to check a property's proximity to local pubs, shops, or walking trails. Always read the full description to understand what's included and what isn't, as amenities vary significantly between properties.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unrivalled Choice: Huge inventory of unique properties in every corner of the UK. | Quality is Variable: As properties are individually owned, standards can differ. Reviews are essential. |
| Bespoke Experience: Total freedom to create your own schedule and festive traditions. | Hidden Extras: Be mindful of potential extra costs like cleaning fees or charges for pets, which vary by owner. |
| Transparent Reviews: User ratings and detailed feedback help you make an informed decision. | Minimum Stays: Some owners may enforce a minimum 7-night stay over the peak Christmas period. |
Sykes Holiday Cottages empowers you to find and book a unique private space, offering the ultimate in flexibility for a self-directed Christmas short break tailored precisely to your tastes and needs.
Website: https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottages-for-christmas.html
7. National Holidays
For those who prefer a completely hassle-free festive experience without the need to drive, National Holidays offers an excellent solution. This platform specialises in coach-inclusive UK Christmas short breaks, packaging transport, hotel stays, some meals, and organised excursions into one convenient booking. It’s an ideal choice for solo travellers, couples, or groups who enjoy structured itineraries and the social aspect of group travel, removing all logistical stress from the holiday planning.
The core appeal of National Holidays is its "door-to-tour" convenience. The website allows you to find festive getaways departing from a huge network of local pickup points across the UK. You can browse a wide array of break types, from 'Turkey & Tinsel' themed stays in classic seaside resorts to city breaks timed to coincide with major Christmas markets and events. The packages often include festive dinners, live entertainment, and guided day trips, ensuring a full and varied itinerary from the moment you step on the coach.
Key Features & Booking Tips
The National Holidays website is designed for straightforward booking. Users can easily filter their search by departure region, duration (typically from 2 to 6 days), and specific dates to find the perfect Christmas short break. The platform clearly details what is included in the price, such as half-board accommodation, festive meals, and all scheduled excursions.
- All-Inclusive Packages: Most breaks include return coach travel, hotel accommodation, specified meals (like breakfast and a festive evening dinner), and a full excursion programme.
- Variety of Destinations: Options range from the festive lights of Blackpool and the charm of the Cotswolds to city trips exploring historic towns and cities. Many travellers enjoy these organised trips as they get to discover a historic town or city break for two without any of the usual travel planning.
- Booking Strategy: Popular destinations and key Christmas dates can sell out quickly due to the limited seats per coach. Booking a few months in advance is recommended to secure your preferred itinerary and departure point. Keep an eye out for special offers, but be aware that availability is tied to scheduled tour dates.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Door-to-Tour Convenience: Transport, hotel, and excursions are all packaged together. | Fixed Itineraries: Less flexibility compared to self-drive breaks, with set schedules and departure points. |
| Great for Non-Drivers: Removes the stress of driving, parking, and navigating. | Limited Availability: Trips are tied to regional pickups and specific scheduled dates, which can fill up fast. |
| Social and Organised: An excellent option for solo travellers or those who enjoy group tours. | Group Travel Format: The pace and activities are set for the group, which may not suit all travel styles. |
National Holidays excels at delivering stress-free, value-for-money Christmas short breaks for travellers who want every detail taken care of, allowing them to simply sit back, relax, and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Website: https://www.nationalholidays.com/britain/christmas
Christmas Short Breaks — 7-Provider Comparison
| Option | Implementation Complexity 🔄 | Resource Requirements ⚡ | Expected Outcomes 📊 | Ideal Use Cases 💡 | Key Advantages ⭐ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short Breaks & Weekends Away (Activity Superstore) | Low 🔄 — simple voucher purchase & redemption | Medium ⚡ — travel varies; flexible booking windows | 📊 Broad choice, giftable convenience; ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Last-minute gifts; varied recipient tastes; regional short breaks | ⭐ Wide selection, gifting features (eVouchers, Mega Choice), vetted venues |
| Center Parcs | Medium 🔄 — package + activity pre-booking often required | High ⚡ — peak pricing; many on-site paid activities | 📊 Weather‑proof, activity‑dense family breaks; ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Multigenerational families; festive, indoor-focused holidays | ⭐ Extensive on-site facilities, festive theming, indoor pools |
| Butlin's | Low–Medium 🔄 — straightforward booking; show seating may need planning | Medium ⚡ — family budgets; travel to resorts | 📊 High included entertainment; lively atmosphere; ⭐⭐⭐ | Families seeking value-packed entertainment and child‑focused fun | ⭐ Strong value for families, lots of included shows and rides |
| Warner Hotels | Low 🔄 — packaged, inclusive bookings are simple | Medium ⚡ — all-inclusive pricing but adults‑only policy | 📊 Quiet, bundled festive experience; budgeting ease; ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Couples or adult groups wanting relaxed, all‑inclusive stays | ⭐ Adults‑only environment, inclusive meals and entertainment |
| Forest Holidays | Low–Medium 🔄 — cabin booking plus optional add-ons | Medium ⚡ — car often useful; pay for extras (hot tub, activities) | 📊 Quiet, nature‑based stays with private hot tubs; ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Couples or small groups seeking secluded, cosy woodland breaks | ⭐ Private hot tubs, woodland setting, clear festive add‑ons |
| Sykes Holiday Cottages | Medium 🔄 — property selection, owner rules and cleaning fees | High ⚡ — self‑catered logistics, variable extra charges | 📊 Bespoke self‑catered holidays; quality varies by property; ⭐⭐⭐ | Groups wanting a private cottage, hot tub or pet‑friendly stay | ⭐ Huge inventory, filters (hot tubs/pets), user reviews and pricing transparency |
| National Holidays | Low–Medium 🔄 — coach + hotel packaged; fixed itineraries | Low ⚡ — transport included; regional pickup points | 📊 Low‑hassle, escorted group trips; ⭐⭐⭐ | Travellers preferring not to drive, solo or senior travellers | ⭐ Transport + hotel bundled, guided excursions, door‑to‑tour convenience |
Start Planning Your Magical Christmas Escape Today
As we’ve explored, the United Kingdom transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season, offering a spectacular array of Christmas short breaks to suit every taste, budget, and travel style. From the all-action, family-centric adventures at Butlin's and Center Parcs to the tranquil, adult-only elegance of Warner Hotels, the perfect festive escape is waiting for you. Whether you envision yourself nestled in a cosy Forest Holidays cabin surrounded by snow-dusted pines or exploring a new city from a charming Sykes Holiday Cottage, the key takeaway is clear: the UK is rich with magical possibilities.
Our journey through these diverse options highlights that the "best" break is entirely personal. A family with young children will find immense value in the structured entertainment and on-site amenities of a holiday park, while a couple seeking romance and relaxation might gravitate towards a secluded countryside retreat or a sophisticated city stay. The secret to a truly memorable and stress-free festive holiday lies in thoughtful, early planning.
Making the Right Choice for Your Festive Getaway
Choosing the ideal Christmas short break requires a clear understanding of your priorities. Before you book, take a moment to reflect on what a perfect festive experience looks like for you and your travel companions.
- For Families: If your primary goal is keeping children entertained and creating lasting family memories, destinations like Center Parcs and Butlin's are unparalleled. Their packed itineraries of festive activities, from Santa's grottos to pantomimes, remove the pressure of planning and ensure non-stop fun.
- For Couples and Adults: For a more serene and sophisticated escape, Warner Hotels provides an all-inclusive, adult-only environment perfect for relaxation. Alternatively, a secluded Forest Holidays cabin offers privacy and a direct connection with nature, ideal for romantic walks and quiet evenings by the fire.
- For Group Get-Togethers: If you're organising a festive reunion with friends or extended family, the flexibility of Sykes Holiday Cottages is a significant advantage. Renting a large property allows you to create your own schedule, cook festive meals together, and enjoy a shared, private space.
- For Budget-Conscious Travellers: For those looking for an organised and affordable way to experience the UK's Christmas markets and festive lights, National Holidays offers excellent value with their coach tours, bundling transport, accommodation, and excursions into one simple price.
Remember, the most popular venues and dates, particularly those falling over Christmas week and New Year's, are often booked months in advance. To secure your preferred location and avoid disappointment, it is crucial to act decisively and book early.
Ultimately, your perfect Christmas short break is more than just a destination; it's an opportunity to pause, reconnect with loved ones, and immerse yourself in the joy of the season. By aligning your choice with your personal festive vision, you can move beyond the stress of holiday logistics and focus on what truly matters: creating cherished memories. Don't let this magical time of year slip away in a flurry of last-minute planning. Start exploring your options now, book your chosen escape, and give yourself the gift of a wonderful festive experience to look forward to.
Ready to give the gift of choice this Christmas? Explore the incredible selection of hotel breaks, getaways, and experience vouchers at Activity Superstore. With hundreds of hand-picked locations across the UK, our flexible vouchers allow your loved ones to book their own perfect Christmas short break, ensuring a memorable and personalised gift they'll treasure.