TWO magical locations in Scotland have been named among the best places in the UK to visit this Christmas.

The iconic spots were featured alongside places across the country like Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire and Bath in Somerset.

Introducing the list, the prestigious travel magazine Time Out said: "When it comes to Christmassy destinations, the UK is packed fuller than a stocking on Christmas morning."

The publication added that the country has everything lovers of all things festive could ever want, including "ridiculously pretty" palaces to "joy-filled" cities.

Edinburgh was said to be magical at the 'best of times'Edinburgh was said to be 'magical at the best of times' (Image: Getty Images)

Why these Scottish spots are among the best places to visit this Christmas

Edinburgh and the Cairngorms were the two Scottish locations named among the best places to visit at Christmas by Time Out.

Edinburgh, which took the top spot, was praised for its centuries-old network of spiralling hills, cobbled streets and "Hogwarts-like" architecture which help to make the city feel "magical at the best of times".

The magazine highlighted various festive spots, including Princes Street Gardens where the "world-famous" Christmas market "enchants" visitors with its local crafts and joyous fairground rides.

The Cairngorms was also featured because of its free-roaming reindeer herd introduced in 1952 by Mikel Utsi and his wife Dr. Ethel Lindgren.

Reindeers were introduced to the Cairngorms in 1952Reindeers were introduced to the Cairngorms in 1952 (Image: Getty Images)

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The herd are said to be thriving in what is the only subarctic wilderness anywhere in the UK, reaching a number of 150 strong.

Guided tours depart from Glenmore and are a particularly festive experience from October onwards.

During the tours, you'll have the chance to learn their names and get the opportunity to feed them.

The publication notes that the tours are "weather-permitting" and that advance booking in the winter months is "essential".