Christmas can be a stressful time, especially if you have left your Christmas shopping to the last minute. These days the post can be unreliable and waiting for an on-line delivery can sometimes take weeks. To help you with your shopping here are the best towns in the united kingdom (whether you are just visiting or a local) to head out to this year. If you get there early you might even bag yourself a few bargains!

1. Manchester - England's unofficial second city is a shoppers paradise - filled to the brim with cool funky boutiques, retro/vintage shops and chic clothing stores. For the more mainstream shopper there is also all the usual high street stores in the huge shopping mall the Arndale Centre. Head to the city's Northern Quarter for all the independent stores and the Castlefield area for designer luxury. You certainly won't be stuck for choice in Manchester - just remember to wear your warmest clothes and bring an umbrella!

2. Brighton - The small seaside city of Brighton and Hove is another shoppers paradise. The wide range of shops offer everything from chic boutiques and contemporary unique fashions to antiques, original art and stylish jewellery. Head for the famous North and South Laines for more trendier offerings, vegetarian food outlets and vintage kitsch. Designer outlet store bargains can be found in Brighton Marina and the big high street name stores are located in Churchill Square shopping centre.

3. Bath - The beautiful spa city of Bath is perfect for a quintessential English Christmas shopping experience. The historical city is well known for its grand Georgian streets, Roman baths and beautiful abbey and here even the most discerning shopper is well catered for. Bath offers all the familiar big name stores, a wide range of independent shops, stylish boutiques and a popular seasonal market.

4. Cardiff - The Welsh city of Cardiff makes for one of the best shopping experiences in the UK, thanks to the newly completed multi-million pound extension to the St. David's shopping centre. Every major high street name features in the grand 'St. David's 2' development, but if you're after a more relaxing shopping experience, why not try the enchanting Morgan and Castle shopping arcades, complete with Victorian and Edwardian features.

5. Newcastle - If you like to shop on a large scale Newcastle is a great place to visit. The enormous Metrocentre is one of the largest shopping and leisure centres in Europe and attracts thousands of Christmas shoppers every year. In Newcastle you can also find all the usual high street favourites, a good selection of independent shops and a popular art and craft market. - 39969