places to visit uk january

13 things to do and places to visit in the UK in January

Not many of us would vote January as our favourite month. But it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom once the festive season has come to an end.

The days might still be dark and chilly, but January marks the beginning of a new year and there are plenty of things that you can do to make it a month as exciting and enjoyable as the next.

With this in mind, here are 13 things to do and places to visit in the UK in January that’ll hopefully get you excited about the new year. From music and food, to stargazing and wildlife watching, we hope these ideas leave you feeling inspired.

1. Lose yourself in music at Celtic Connections, Glasgow

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According to The Guardian, “If there’s something that makes wintertime in Glasgow great, it’s Celtic Connections” . Celtic Connections is an annual folk, roots, and world music festival that celebrates Glasgow’s links to other cultures across the globe.

With over 2,100 musicians covering more than 300 events across multiple genres of music, the city is brought to life for 18 magical days.

As well as world-class concerts, you can also expect talks, art exhibitions, workshops, and ceilidhs (traditional music, singing, dancing, and storytelling events).

Celtic Connections will run from 18th January to 4th February 2024.

2. Go wildlife watching, UK-wide

Winter is a wonderful time to immerse yourself in nature and do some wildlife watching.

The bare trees make woodland creatures easier to spot; birds begin to arrive for the winter months; and a number of unique creatures appear on the coast. Plus, with fewer crowds than during the summer months, you’re likely to get a better view.

Here in the UK, we’re blessed with beautiful landscapes that are home to amazing wildlife. And while some winter wildlife only appears in specific areas – for example, migrant coastal birds – you may be pleasantly surprised just how much nature can be found on your doorstep.

To see what’s near you, check out the National Trust’s list of best places to spot winter wildlife . Whether you head to Norfolk’s Blakeney National Nature Reserve to spot grey seal pups; go birdwatching in Wembury , Devon; or try and spot the elusive pine marten in Crom , County Fermanagh – wildlife watching is a fun and highly-rewarding winter activity.

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3. Immerse yourself in art at the London Art Fair, London

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If you have a passion for art, you might be interested in attending the London Art Fair this January.

Each year, the London Art Fair welcomes over 100 leading galleries specialising in modern and contemporary art. Selected from both the UK and abroad, these galleries represent some of the best established and emerging artists in this field.

Expect to see works by internationally renowned artists like Andy Warhol, Charlotte Keates, and David Hockey; as well as a rising collection of new talent.

The 2024 programme promises to bring visitors into conversation with the art world, featuring everything from live performances to immersive installations and a captivating lineup of talks and tours. You can find out more in the London Art Fair 2024 programme .

The London Art Fair is held at Islington’s Business Design Centre and will take place between 17th and 21st January 2024.

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4. Browse the stalls at the award-winning St George’s Market, Belfast

If you’re in the mood to shop and eat good food this January, why not head to the award-winning St George’s Market in Belfast?

Built between 1890 and 1896, St George’s Market is the last surviving Victorian market in Belfast. It’s won awards for its fresh, local produce, and buzzing atmosphere – and was voted the UK’s best large indoor market in 2023.

With around 300 traders, food vendors, and an electric atmosphere, it’s the ideal location for foodies and creatives alike.

St George’s Market is open to the public every week from Friday to Sunday, and each day has a different offering. Friday’s variety market, which dates back to 1604, hosts around 200 market stalls selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to books, antiques, and clothes. Saturday is a city food and craft market; and, on Sundays, you can enjoy live music as you browse the stalls of local craftsmen.

The Belfast Food Tours also begin at the market and take you on a four-hour food-filled tour of some of the best food and drink spots in the city.

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5. Stargaze at Kynance Cove, Cornwall

Stargaze at Kynance Cove, Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula

Located on the west side of the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall, Kynance Cove is a National Trust Go Stargazing Site.

Due to its low light pollution levels and distance from nearby cities and towns, Kynance Cove is an excellent location to spot stars.

It’s usually extremely busy during the summer months, so why not skip the crowds and take a trip in January instead?

Alternatively, if Kynance Cove is too far away from you, there are plenty of other fantastic stargazing spots to enjoy across the UK. And for guidance on what to look out for, our introduction to stargazing is worth a read.

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6. Celebrate Hen Galan, North Pembrokeshire

While the rest of us celebrate the New Year on 1st January, for those in Cwm Gwaun, a small wooded valley near Fishguard, Pembrokeshire, ‘Hen Galan’ falls on 13th January. In Welsh, hen means ‘old’ and calan means ‘first day of the month’.

When the ancient Julian calendar was formally abolished in 1752 and replaced with the Gregorian calendar, the people of Gwaun Valley resisted the change – a tradition kept alive to this day.

For many in the area, Hen Galan today is a celebration to rival Christmas – with singing, gift-giving, and a delicious feast – often at a pub. So if you’re looking for another round of celebrations to lift your spirits this January, why not immerse yourself in Welsh culture and take a trip to Pembrokeshire for Hen Galan?

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7. Discover the City of Caves, Nottingham

Hidden deep below the streets of Nottingham is the UK’s largest network of caves.

Here, you can soak in the extraordinary atmosphere of over 800 ancient caves, which were first recorded during the ninth-century Viking occupation. They also went on to serve as a medieval tannery and World War II air raid shelter, and you can really feel the history here.

Due to the confined nature of the caves, entry times are staggered, so it’s advisable to book tickets ahead of time.

8. Go skiing in the Cairngorms, Scottish Highlands

Cairngorm Mountain, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park , is Scotland’s favourite mountain destination – and the ski area here is the ultimate winter playground.

With over 30km of piste runs, 10 surface lifts, and freestyle terrain, the Cairngorms are the perfect place for beginners and experts alike to enjoy an unforgettable winter snowsports experience.

Alternatively, if skiing isn’t for you, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy your time here. From picturesque walking trails to the Mountain Garden, which offers spectacular viewpoints for spotting local wildlife, it’s a great chance to breathe in some fresh January air.

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9. Enjoy a day out at Immersive Gamebox, UK-wide

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If you’d prefer to do an indoor activity this winter, why not head to Immersive Gamebox?

Here you can try your hand at a range of hi-tech arcade-style games and challenges that will test your memory and trivia knowledge, and pit you in a race against time. With motion tracking, projection mapping, a surround sound system, and touch screens, this is a one-of-a-kind sensory experience.

Immersive Gamebox is perfect for families, groups of friends, and couples – just remember, you’ll have to work as a team!

Immersive Gamebox has locations in London, Essex, Manchester, and Yorkshire, which you can browse here . Alternatively, if none of these locations work for you, Otherworld offers very similar experiences. Otherworld currently has locations in London and Birmingham, and will be opening in Manchester, Edinburgh, and Dublin soon.

10. Take a trip to Thermae Bath Spa, Bath

Thermae Bath Spa is Britain’s only natural thermal spa. The baths continue to flow with natural hot water throughout winter – which can offer a welcome dose of warmth during the colder months.

With a luxury spa, peaceful cafe, and rooftop pool, a trip to Thermae Bath Spa is an excellent way to kick back and enjoy something a bit different this winter – whether you decide to book a relaxing massage, enjoy the naturally warm and mineral-rich waters, or marvel at the breathtaking views across Bath’s skyline.

Note: Thermae Bath Spa will be closed for maintenance from Thursday 4th to Friday 12th January 2023.

11. Visit a cosy pub, UK-wide

Pubs are a cherished part of the UK landscape – and during the winter months, they offer an especially welcome place to cosy up, enjoy a hearty meal, and chat over a drink or two.

You could set a particular pub as the end-point of a brisk winter’s walk, or plan a trip to one which has great reviews for their Sunday roast.

If you’re not sure where to go, why not try one of the pubs listed in our article; 12 historic pubs to visit across the UK ?

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12. Get involved with celebrations for Burns Night, UK-wide

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Burns Night is one of Scotland’s most cherished celebrations, held in honour of famous Scottish poet, Robert Burns.

Burns was born on 25th January 1759, so Burns Night is held on this date each year. It typically involves a ‘Burns supper’ where you can expect to enjoy plenty of poetry, haggis, and whisky tasting – and, of course, lots of fun and laughter.

You can find out more about what to expect from celebrating Burns Night on the Visit Scotland website .

If Scotland is too far afield for you, Burns Night celebrations are held across the UK too. Some of the best places to celebrate are London , Manchester , and Birmingham .

Alternatively, if you’d prefer to stay home, check out this guide to celebrating Burns Night at home from Taste Talk, which covers everything from food and drink to music.

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13. Make a New Year’s resolution vision board

January marks the beginning of a new year – a time when many of us like to set goals for the months ahead.

However, with surveys revealing that less than 30% of us manage to keep our resolutions up for the year, it’s worth considering what you can do to stay motivated.

Some people find it useful to make a New Year’s resolution vision board. Studies have found that writing down and visualising our goals can lead to a greater belief that we’ll succeed. Vision boards are also a fantastic way to get creative and spend a cosy day indoors. Check out our article, How to create an inspiring vision board , for ideas on how to get started.

If you’re not sure what resolutions to make, our article, 12 New Year’s resolutions that aren’t just for January , might give you some ideas. From setting physical and mental health goals, to decluttering your home and learning a new skill – stick to some of these and 2024 could be your best year yet.

Final thoughts…

Because it marks the end of the festive season, January is sometimes given a bad wrap. But with so many fun things to do this month, there’s plenty of ways to start the beginning of 2024 on a high note.

From wildlife watching and relaxing spas to food markets and art fairs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month.

For more inspiration, check out our collection of ideas for days out in the UK in the travel section of our website.

What plans do you have for January? Have any of the ideas from our list taken your fancy? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Francesca Williams is a lifestyle writer at Rest Less. She joined Rest Less in early 2021 after achieving a first-class degree in History at the University of Sheffield and qualifying as an NCTJ Gold Standard Journalist. Francesca writes across a range of lifestyle topics, specialising in health, history, and art and culture. In her spare time, Francesca likes to keep herself busy and enjoys going on walks, playing netball, going to the gym, getting involved with her local church, and socialising with friends and family.

* Links with an * by them are affiliate links which help Rest Less stay free to use as they can result in a payment or benefit to us. You can read more on how we make money here .

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10 Best Places to Visit in the UK in January

Near year, new journey! Start the year fresh by exploring these best places to visit in the UK in January. We’ve rounded up a list of activities and fun things to do in winter in beautiful — and crisp — corners of the UK, so if you’re wondering where to go on holiday in January, you’ve come to the right place. Hire a winter-proof motorhome with your loved ones and get cosy in the fresh air until those cheeks turn rosy.

1. Stargazing in the Brecon Beacons

In January the nights are longer, darker, colder and… clearer. This is why this month just so happens to be an excellent (if not the best) time of year to dust off the binoculars or telescope, fill the thermos and go stargazing. In winter you can spot many prominent constellations, such as Orion, Gemini, Taurus, The Great Bear, The Little Bear and Cassiopeia. In areas with little light pollution, you may even spot the entire Milky Way stretching across the sky.

And the fun doesn’t end there! In early January, a phenomenon called the Quandratid meteor shower occurs, which can produce a high number of bright meteors or ‘shooting stars’. Furthermore, clear winter skies offer incredible views of the moon, with a higher chance of spotting its craters and mountains. In January, several planets such as Venus, Jupiter and Saturn can even be observed with the naked eye.

Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Scotland See Northern Lights UK

2. Woodland walking in Marshham Heath

A walk in the woods is a joy in every season, but surely a forest becomes even more enchanting in wintertime. Maybe it’s the way the bare branches cast a complex shadow on the forest floor. Or the crisp rustle of frost-covered leaves under your heavy winter boots. Or the way in which even the thinnest layer of snow mutes all forest sounds to a state of muffled silence. Whatever it is, a stroll over a meandering forest track in the wintertime is an ethereal experience, so get amongst it!

Best places to visit in the UK in January Where to go on holiday in January

3. Beachcombing on the Isle of Wight

There are few activities as meditative as scouring a shoreline for treasures that nature has left behind. Whether you’re looking for shells, driftwood, sea glass or a message in a bottle, winter is by far the best time of year to go beachcombing. Mainly because the often relentless coastal weather means fewer people head out to brave the cold, which leaves the UK’s beaches empty and pristine. Head out at first light to really beat the crowds and increase your chances of finding real gems.

If you’re looking for the perfect destination for your beachcombing holiday in January, hop on the ferry across The Solent to the Isle of Wight. The Isle’s milder and more forgiving winter climate makes for the perfect beachcoming circumstances. The bravest may even take their shoes off for the real experience, toes in the sand! The Isle of Wight is a real treasure trove for beachcombers, as the island’s remarkable geological history makes for a very high chance of finding fossils among other collectables. The island's maritime heritage and shipwrecks further add the allure.

4. Celebrate Celtic music in Glasgow

If you’re looking for a more festive type of winter fun, head north to Glasgow this winter. The Scottish city has well and truly earned its place on this list of best places to visit in the UK in January, as on January 18th the Celtic Connections festival kicks off. This annual folk, roots, indie, world and traditional music festival celebrates the connection between Celtic music and cultures across the world.

5. Skiing in the Cairngorms

Whilst you’re up in Scotland, why not head for the slopes? It may not have crossed your mind, but there’s ample opportunity for some skiing and snowboarding action right here on the isle of Great Britain. One of the best places to ski in Scotland is typically the Cairngorms National Park due to its higher elevations and colder temperatures during the winter months. At Goboony we have a tendency to rave on and on about this fantastic road trip destination, there’s simply nothing but great things to say about the Cairngorms. So if you haven’t made it up there yet, you might want to make the trip this year.

The primary ski resort in the Cairngorms is Cairngorm Mountain near Aviemore, where there’s a range of runs suitable for all levels of skiers. Even though the resort is known for its stunning alpine-like scenery, keep in mind that the conditions might not be as predictable or consistent as in major European ski destinations. Even so, the views from the slopes in Cairngorm Mountain are to die for, and it tends to have better snow cover than other Scottish ski resorts.

6. Ice skating in Brighton

7. Whisky tasting on the Isle of Islay

Exploring a Scottish Isle exposed to the roaring northern Atlantic in the height of winter may not sound like an alluring experience. But what if you get to warm your old bones by guzzling some of the country’s most exquisite water of life afterwards? If the thought suddenly became a whole lot more enticing, then head to Islay.

8. Birdwatching on Lundy

Are you committing to dry January and planning to stay as far away from any kind of alcoholic festival as possible? Or just craving some serenity and solitude after the end of December madness? In either case, we have just the place for you. Next up on the list of best places to go on holiday in January is Lundy Island off the coast of Devon. The stunning Lundy Heritage Coast sees fewer visitors in winter, which leaves the destination more tranquil and peaceful than any other time of year.

Just being able to take in the island’s natural beauty undisturbed is reason enough to ferry across, but there are more arguments for a January visit. When tourists scurry away from the windswept isle, birds flock to it! Lundy Island becomes a temporary refuge for various migrant bird species in January. Birdwatchers can spot waders such as curlews and oystercatchers, as well as waterfowl like ducks and geese, which all use the island’s estuaries and shores as their feeding grounds.

9. Coastal walking on the Jurassic Coast

10. Winter camping, wherever you like!

Don’t let the chill be the limiting factor to your adventure. On Goboony you can hire plenty of vehicles that are winter-proof, complete with a heater, hot water and other amenities.

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Visiting the UK in winter (Ultimate guide + top tips)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 8, 2023

Are you visiting the UK in winter (or considering it!) and want to know the best places to visit and must-do experiences? We have you covered with UK winter travel inspiration plus practical tips to make the most of your trip wherever you go.

Many people assume that the UK is nothing but rain and chilly weather during winter. However, it’s actually one of the best times to visit. The UK in the colder months of winter can be magical with picture-perfect landscapes, festive activities and cosy pubs where you can warm up with a hot drink or enjoy a delicious meal after spending the day making the most of your UK holiday.

In this article, discover the advantages (and disadvantages) of planning a winter vacation in the UK, the best places to visit (and must-do experiences to include in your UK itinerary), the best places to stay plus answers to frequently answered questions. We have also included practical tips to ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible.

Advantages of visiting the UK in winter

Disadvantages of visiting the uk in winter, the lake district , peak district, scottish highlands, the cotswolds.

Bannau Brycheiniog (formally known as the Brecon Beacons)

Northumberland

Dartmoor national park, when is winter in the uk, how many hours of daylight are there in the uk in winter, is it better to visit the uk in winter or during other times of the year, how cold is the uk in winter, what to pack for the uk in winter, how can i travel around the uk in winter.

If you're planning a trip to the UK in winter add these experiences to your bucket list.

Planning your UK trip

Visiting the uk in winter.

For those on a budget visiting the UK during the winter months is ideal. From about November through to February (excluding December, Christmas, and New Year) is considered low season with accommodation cheaper than at other times of the year.
In the winter major attractions are not as busy. For example, you’ll often be able to enjoy iconic London attractions such as the London Eye or Buckingham Palace without the long queues.
Many UK cities, towns and villages have a festive feel with Christmas lights, decorations and other seasonal treats including traditional foods such as mince pies which you can enjoy without the hustle and bustle of large crowds.
Many towns and cities in the United Kingdom hold specific activities to celebrate the festive season. York, Edinburgh, and Birmingham are among the numerous cities that feature an annual Christmas market where you can sample traditional cuisine, crafts, and entertainment.
You can cosy up in a friendly fire-lit pub with a glass of mulled wine or craft beer.
If you want to experience a genuine English Christmas with roast dinners, family time walks in the snow, and seasonal markets, visiting the UK during the winter is a must.
The winter months provide a unique atmosphere to the countryside, with frost-covered fields and often clear bright blue skies.
There is the possibility of taking part in special events such as Hogmanay in Edinburgh.
The days are shorter. If you don’t like getting up early or staying out late, then visiting during the winter period (November – February) may not be for you. In addition, many attractions (including National Trust properties ) close or have shorter opening hours. This means you may not be able to see and do as much as you want.
The weather can be cold especially if you are visiting places in northern England, Scotland or other parts of the UK where snowfalls are common during winter.
Winter is the rainiest season of the year so car journeys can take longer due to poor visibility.
Snow and ice make road travel more challenging and may make it harder for you to get around.

Best places to visit in the UK in winter

Edinburgh fireworks at Hogmanay is a popular event in the UK in winter.

Edinburgh is one of the best destinations to visit in the UK in winter and particularly during the festive period. The Scottish capital hosts numerous events and activities in the build-up to Christmas including a fantastic light show on Princes Street Gardens where more than 1,000 fairy lights are switched on for the Festival of Lights.

Every year in early December the Edinburgh International Christmas Market in nearby George Street welcomes visitors from all over Europe to sample a variety of festive treats and enjoy live entertainment.

In addition, the city’s streets are adorned with beautiful wreaths and garlands, while families travel from far and wide to see one of the largest decorated trees in the UK in the centre of the city.

The start of a new year is heralded with one of the best street parties on earth at Hogmanay, the world-renowned Scottish New Year.

The city centre is closed to traffic for the huge street party on 31 December where up to 100,000 people join in a mass rendition of Auld Lang Syne (the New Year song) at the stroke of midnight.

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations continue until mid-morning with a family fireworks display and live music.

Bannau Brycheiniog ( formally known as the Brecon Beacons )

Bannau Brycheiniog in Wales is one of the UK’s top walking destinations and with over 900 miles of footpaths visitors can enjoy exploring the beautiful countryside on foot. Well-maintained trails include the popular Beacons Way which follows the path of a disused railway line and takes about 6 days to complete.

There are also numerous activities offered in the region including mountain biking, caving, kayaking and canoeing. Visitors can enjoy New Year’s Eve at Cardiff City Hall with an evening of food and entertainment followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the bay.

Winter view over Northumberland landscape.

Northumberland National Park is England’s largest national park covering some 21% of this north eastern county of England. Visitors come to enjoy its stunning scenery, dramatic coastline and peaceful rural villages .

The park is perfect for outdoor activities including walking, cycling (road or mountain), climbing, running or horse riding across the beautiful landscape. The area also has a vibrant culture and tradition with numerous creative industries on offer throughout the winter including art, craft and music plus an exciting calendar of festive events.

Take a drive along the Northumberland coastal route and stop along the way at some of the beautiful seaside towns, villages and castles. Pop into the famous Barter Books in Alnwick with its open fires and comfy chairs – perfect on a cold winter’s day.

Northern Ireland is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the whole of the UK with rolling hills, coastal shores and lush countryside.

In Belfast, visitors can enjoy celebrations such as festivals, markets and events over the festive period including ice skating at City Hall Square (Boutique Winter Festival), Belfast’s Christmas boat parade on the River Lagan and a spectacular firework display at Titanic Slipways.

In winter, Belfast has a packed events calendar with everything from live entertainment, markets and food festivals to culture and theatre.

Dartmoor is a vast expanse of unspoilt and stunning countryside in South Devon. Visitors enjoy walking, cycling and horseriding over the rolling landscape as well as exploring local villages and towns including historic Okehampton and picturesque Tavistock.

The area is also home to Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre which offers award-winning exhibitions about Dartmoor’s fascinating wildlife (including the famous ponies which roam Dartmoor), landscapes and cultural heritage. The site boasts a café, shop and free exhibition galleries packed with interactive exhibits for all the family to enjoy.

For an unforgettable New Year celebration in Dartmoor why not join one of the Bronze Age Nights themed events where guests can enjoy storytelling around a campfire, horseriding and marshmallow toasting. These events take place throughout the winter season so visitors can enjoy experiencing time-honoured festivities from years gone by!

FAQs – Visiting the UK in winter

Red phone boxes covered in snow in London.

Winter officially runs from 1 December to 31 March. During December, January and February you are more likely to experience colder weather than at other times of the year.

During December the UK gets an average of only 8 hours of daylight. In Scotland, the shortest day has just under 7 hours of daylight.

It depends on what you want your holiday experience to be like. Travelling during summer will give you a chance to enjoy warm temperatures and take advantage of long sunny days.

Visiting between spring and autumn provides a better chance of nice weather and you’ll avoid the crowds. But there’s something truly special about visiting the UK at Christmas time plus of course it has the added benefits of lower costs and fewer tourists!

Read more – When is the best time to visit the UK?

If you’re visiting the United Kingdom in the winter (the coldest months), you should prepare for cold and damp with temperatures averaging around 5°C (41°F) but as low as -4°C (25°F) in northern parts of Scotland.

Expect more than the odd rainy day (after all it is the UK!)

“There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes.” (Alfred Wainwright) It can get pretty chilly in the UK in winter so packing a waterproof winter coat and boots, warm clothes and a hat, scarf and gloves are all recommended.

We recommend wearing layers so you can adjust your clothing to suit the environment as it can be stifling in shops and on public transport in winter.

Read more – What to pack for the UK (all seasons)

If you’re planning to hire a car for your UK winter visit, check the weather forecast beforehand so that you know what conditions to expect. Driving in winter can be challenging especially on wet roads or if there’s ice and snow.

If you are travelling by train and there is an adverse weather forecast check the status of your train on the National Rail Enquiries website.

If you’re planning a trip to the UK in winter add these experiences to your bucket list.

See a pantomime dame perform as your favourite festive character. There are pantomimes at theatres across the country, from London’s West End to small village halls.
Take a walk in one of England’s national parks: choose Snowdonia in Wales or the Peak District and Yorkshire Dales in northern England for snowy landscapes and mountains capped with white snow – perfect if you like walking and winter sports.
Spend Boxing Day (Dec 26) shopping in the sales. If you’re a fan of bargain hunting and limited edition, luxury pieces – it’s the one day to take advantage of great discounts.
Try out your ice skating skills at Somerset House in London, Manchester’s Platt Fields Park or Hyde Park in Leeds.
Visit the world’s most festive capital city, where everything is beautifully lit up with Christmas lights. Spend an afternoon wandering around Oxford Street to see the window displays in department stores.
Visit some of the UK’s Christmas markets for local crafts, food and gifts for family and friends.
Try mulled wine or hot chocolate with homemade mince pies.
Snuggle up in a warm cosy pub with an open fire.
Go to a carol service or even sing in one if you are brave enough. Singing is not mandatory but it does add to the festive spirit of the occasion!
Go to the New Year’s Eve party in Edinburgh.
See Edinburgh, Bath, York or other UK cities illuminated with festive lights.

Night in London with snow and twinkling lights in the trees.

If you want to drink mulled cider (or wine) in a cosy pub, toast marshmallows over an open fire and enjoy some festive cheer then the winter (and especially December) is the perfect time to visit the UK!

When to visit – Guide to UK seasons
UK travel inspiration – Staycation guide
Planning – Plan your UK trip in 10 easy steps
Accommodation – Where to stay
Book your trip – Best UK booking sites

Visiting the UK (seasonal guides)

UK in autumn (fall)
UK in summer
UK in spring

Visiting London (monthly & seasonal guides)

London in winter
London in spring
London in December (and podcast)
London in January
London in February
London in March
London in April

16 Best Places to Visit in Winter in the UK

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Nov 13, 2023

The UK is a beautiful place to visit at any time of year, but there's something about winter that brings out its true magic. Thatched roofs loaded with snow, frost-laden meadows, and outdoor skating rinks make everything feel festive and fun in winter.

Climb the snow-covered tors in Devon's Dartmoor National Park , browse London's Christmas markets , or sled through the Scottish Highlands . There are so many great places to visit in winter in the UK. Plus, you won't have to fight the spring crowds or balk at summer's high prices.

While it would be nice if the UK was all fluffy white flakes and bright blue skies during winter, that's not always the case. More often than not, its famously rainy countries will be plagued by cold drizzle, so pack an umbrella, waterproof boots (a.k.a. wellies), and a few extra layers of clothing.

Now that you know what to pack, plan your chilly but fun journey with our list of the best places to visit in winter in the UK.

1. Edinburgh, Scotland

2. york, england, 3. isle of skye, scotland, 4. the cotswolds, england, 5. london, england, 6. canterbury, england, 7. bath, england, 8. dartmoor national park, england, 9. cairngorms national park, scotland, 10. oxford, england, 11. the lake district, england, 12. brecon beacons, wales, 13. cambridge, england, 14. the new forest national park, hampshire, england, 15. isle of rona, scotland, 16. st. ives, cornwall, map of places to visit in winter in the uk.

Scotland's capital is majestic in every season. Add a sprinkling of snow and festive lights to the mix of ancient buildings and cobbled streets, and you've got yourself some romance. Did we mention the towering Edinburgh Castle perched atop a hill? Told you it was a magical setting, especially in winter.

Visit before the holidays and you'll be treated to the adorable Christmas markets, extravagant lights, and festive music on offer as part of the Edinburgh Winter Festival . This multi-day extravaganza lights up the city's already charming streets and boasts a fair-like festive atmosphere that draws crowds from across the UK. Lace-up a pair of rental skates and swirl your way around an outdoor ice rink, with St. Andrew Square and Murrayfield Ice Rink top of the list.

Those who visit for New Year's (a.k.a. Hogmanay ), one of the most popular holidays in the country, are in for a treat. Edinburgh celebrates the first of January with a three-day event. We're talking street parties, torchlight processions, and concerts. It ends with a bang fireworks style on the 31 st .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Edinburgh

Like Edinburgh, York also plays host to festive Christmas markets. The famous and award-winning St. Nicholas Fair takes up most of the city's streets, runs from mid-November through to Christmas, and regularly attracts upwards of a million visitors each season. An outdoor ice rink, carol singers, a giant lighted tree, and a vast market featuring 100 wooden chalets line Parliament Street and St. Sampson's Square .

Grab a hot chocolate and wander around the historic Shambles , where you'll be transported to the 13 th century. A narrow street lined by medieval buildings made of timber, it is perfectly captivating and boasts a wide selection of eclectic shops and a Yuletide Village featuring local arts and crafts.

When you've had enough festive cheer, head to the town's crown jewel: the Gothic York Minster. You won't have to jostle through crowds to enjoy the hallowed walls of this top attraction. If you can, try to make it one of the Minster's wonderful Christmas Carol Concerts , as well as the York Minster Christmas Tree Festival.

Another fun thing to do in York in winter is to walk atop the city's ancient walls to enjoy unbeatable vistas without the foot traffic that plagues warmer months.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England

The Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye backed by the snowcapped Black Cuillin Mountains

Scotland's Isle of Skye is one of the most enchanting places in the UK, and possibly the world. This star of the inner Hebrides region has everything you'd hope for in a Scottish vacation, including castles, mountains, and fairy glens. As long as you dress warmly, you can enjoy them all.

Slip on a warm coat and waterproofs for a trip to the Fairy Pools . While you won't want to jump in for a swim (even in summer they're freezing), these lovely pools are worthy of a visit.

Bring your camera, as you'll want to snap a zillion photos of the warm winter light reflecting off the pools and the snowcapped Black Cuillin Mountains towering above them. Speaking of light, winter visitors get an added bonus: it's much easier to catch a sunrise at this time of year.

During summer, the sun makes an appearance at 4am (talk about early!). In winter, it doesn't rise until a more acceptable 9am. The sun begins to set around 3:30pm, showering the sky with remarkable pink hues and sometimes rainbows. If you're lucky, you may spot the northern lights .

While winter may not be the most popular or best time to visit Scotland, it is the cheapest, so you'll be saving a pretty penny when traveling at this time.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in the Isle of Skye

Snow-covered Castle Combe village in the Cotswolds

You'll be hard-pressed to find a more entrancingly beautiful place than the Cotswolds, especially when the region's tiny ancient towns are blanketed with snow. Grab a sled and hurl yourself down the hills near Broadway Tower or don hiking boots to marvel at the shimmering meadows of the Malvern Hills.

Then, head to the area's real showstoppers: its storybook villages . Cobblestone laneways, honey-colored stone buildings, and quaint thatched-roof cottages pepper each town, upping the charm factor dramatically. You won't be able to stop yourself from taking photographs and uttering an audible "ahh" (or 20) over its overt loveliness.

Popular towns like Castle Combe , Bibury , Bourton-on-the-Water , and Painswick are charming at all times but look even more phenomenal without the hordes of tourists that bombard their tiny streets in spring and summer.

Book a husky ride with Arctic Quest Sled Dog Adventures . Based in Tewkesbury , this creative company offers exciting sled dog adventures you won't forget. No snow? No problem. Arctic Quest also has unique sleds with wheels, so you'll get a full "mush" experience (where you're pulled behind a team of huskies) whatever the weather. After your ride, warm up at the campfire with a hot chocolate.

There are many reasons to visit London in winter. The city is adorned with festiveness, stretching from the banks of the Thames River to the vibrant streets near Trafalgar Square . Once it snows, which happens rarely, the city becomes a unique utopia made even more beautiful by the recent dusting.

Take the opportunity to enjoy an empty Tower of London , and snap selfies on the now much quieter streets near Westminster Abbey and Big Ben . Then, skate outside the Natural History Museum or book tickets to a pantomime (a.k.a. "panto") for extra fun.

London's biggest (and busiest) celebration of the season is the spectacular Hyde Park Winter Wonderland . Set in the city's largest green space, this unique take on a Christmas Market runs for six weeks from mid-November through to New Year's Day and features everything from fairground rides to entertainment, shopping, and countless food experiences.

Shoppers unite at Covent Garden , which is peppered with local artisans selling their unique wares. Stick around for one of the impromptu concerts and prepare to be entertained (whether you want to or not) by the numerous buskers.

Those hoping for more highbrow finds head to the city's most celebrated and impressively decorated shopping district found along Regent and Oxford Streets . Snap photos of the adorable window decorations on Carnaby Street (just east of Regent Street) on your way to Hamley's , the city's best toy shop.

The county of Kent is so attractive it was dubbed the "Garden of England" by Henry VIII. Rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and medieval towns make this an unmissable locale, even in winter. Of all the region's beautiful cities, Canterbury is the most captivating.

Like most large English cities, Canterbury plays host to Christmas markets in late November through December and boasts festive lights that stay up much longer to enhance the charming cobblestone streets.

A trip to Canterbury Cathedral is a must. Gothic towers adorn this UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretching so high above the streets that they're impossible to miss. In its shadow lies King's Mile , a collection of winding streets spotted with independent shops and eateries selling everything from cheese to art.

The Pulteney bridge over the Avon River in Bath

Arguably one of England's most elegant and gorgeous cities, Bath thrives during the winter months. The town's Christmas Market has been voted one of the best in the country and features over 170 chalets selling unique gifts and tasty treats set within ancient streets lined by Georgian buildings.

Every November, the city hosts the annual Bath Mozartfest , a nine-day festival honoring the famed composer as well as his contemporaries like Beethoven and Schubert. Over 16 concerts are performed by world-class musicians in some of the town's most beautiful venues.

Bath's main attraction is over 2,000 years old and a perfect place to warm up. Established in 75 BCE, the award-winning Roman Baths boast ancient hot springs and an enviable spa. They also stay open for twilight hours and offer special three-course holiday meals in the on-site Pump Room Restaurant .

Bath Abbey is particularly enchanting when draped with snow. Head inside for some warmth, and admire the stained-glass windows (the King Edgar Window is incredibly intricate) and carved angels found throughout the building.

Visiting nearby Longleat (a stately home with its own safari park) is a must. Each winter, they decorate the home and park with dazzling outdoor exhibits, including an amazing display of Chinese lanterns as part of the Festival of Light .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bath

Sunrise on a snowy morning in Dartmoor National Park

Moody and romantic, England's moors are the stuff of dreams and fairy tales: just read a novel by Emily Brontë!

A sprinkling of snow on Dartmoor National Park transforms this beautiful landscape into a magical winter wonderland. Add roaming ponies, sheep, and cows to the scenery, and you've got a wonderfully bucolic setting.

Located in Devon, a beautiful county on England's west coast , Dartmoor is beloved by outdoor adventurists. Deep river valleys, towering tors, and golden heaths mark this rugged landscape, inviting visitors to bike, hike, raft, or climb its granite boulders. Some even pack a sled (or sledge, as it's known in the UK).

Pack warm, waterproof layers and be prepared to encounter all types of precipitation during your winter visit. Everything from heavy mist to pounding rain to sleet to snow to ice can envelop the area within a day.

River Luineag flowing into Loch Morlich in the Cairngorms National Park

Sometimes you come upon a place so beautiful, it takes your breath away. Cairngorms National Park is one of these places. While beautiful in all seasons, there's something about winter that ups the picturesque qualities, not to mention the tranquillity, of this Scottish gem.

Located in the Scottish Highlands , Cairngorms National Park presents visitors with a slew of things to do. Its high elevation almost ensures enough snow to ski, sled, or snowshoe during the winter months. Plus, the lack of leaves at this time makes it easier to spot the incredible wildlife.

Enjoy skiing? Hit the slopes at one of the area's three ski resorts: CairnGorm Mountain , Lecht , or Glenshee .

Oxford is one of the oldest and most majestic cities in England. History seeps from every crevice of this famed university town, which is spotted with some of the country's most impressive architecture.

It's best to visit the spectacular medieval buildings on foot. Walking tours of all types, including sightseeing tours and those aimed at fans of J.R.R. Tolkien and Harry Potter movie buffs, are available to book at the Visitor Information Center on Broad Street .

On your journey, you'll pass iconic structures like the Bodleian Library and Christ Church Cathedral , which are made even more stunning when sprinkled with snow. For a bird's-eye view, visit Carfax Tower in the center of town before being tempted by the shops and restaurants lining the pretty High Street .

Or climb the tower at the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin. It boasts impressive city and countryside vistas. At night, catch a concert or play at the Sheldonian Theater on Broad Street .

Read More: Top-Rated Places to Visit in Oxford

A winter morning at Rydal in the English Lake District

Cumbria is home to a truly phenomenal area of natural beauty: The Lake District . In addition to the 16 lakes that inspired the region's name, there are majestic mountains, the tallest of which is Scafell Pike ; verdant valleys; and romantic moors. But the fun doesn't stop there.

The towns of the Lake District put on a wonderful show at this time of year. Christmas markets filled with independent booths selling unique gifts spring up all over, including the towns of Windermere , Ambleside , Hawkshead , and Cockermouth .

Ulverston brings life to the classic Charles Dicken's holiday tale, A Christmas Carol . Each year, this historic market town transforms its streets into Dickensian-era markets featuring street performances and residents roaming the area in period costumes at the Ulverston Dickensian Christmas Festival .

Snowcapped mountains in the Brecon Beacons, Wales

Winter really is the best season to see a mountain range, and the Brecon Beacons are more than worthy of a visit during the coldest months. One of the best tourist attractions in South Wales , this dramatic range is breathtakingly beautiful, and it covers over 46,000 hectares.

If you're hoping to hike (which is the best way to experience these peaks), we suggest gearing up properly and pre-planning your route. Don't head out if the weather is bad, tell a friend where you're going, and be aware of the tide schedule so you don't get caught.

Now that you're ready, head to the Begwyns . An easy 3.2-kilometer walking trail offers unsurpassable views without the need to hike up mountains. Plus, it only takes about an hour, so you won't get too cold.

Hoping for a more difficult trek? The Cwm Llwch from Cwm Gwdi Walk is a challenging way to summit Britain's highest mountain, Pen y Fan . It's almost 13 kilometers long, involves a climb of 576 meters, and will take about five hours to complete.

Wonderful things happen in Cambridge, and we're not just talking about the discoveries made by the city's talented university scholars. Punting along the River Cam is one of the most popular activities in Cambridge , even during the winter.

Each year, the city hosts the Big Christmas Lights Switch On , which happens in mid-November. A couple of weeks later, visitors are presented with the Mill Road Winter Fair . Here, they are treated to festive music, tasty treats, and even dancing in the streets.

Join in the fun in Parker's Piece Park , where you can show off your skating skills on the covered outdoor ice rink. When you've had enough, warm up at a cozy cafe with a hot chocolate topped with marshmallows.

Horses grazing in New Forest National Park

England's New Forest National Park is a magical place filled with wild ponies, winding nature trails, and vast fields. The best thing to do in the New Forest is wander, exploring this natural wonderland either on foot or on a bicycle.

Set aside three hours (or two if you prefer walking at a faster pace) and head to Brockenhurst . From here, pick up the Buckland Rings Trail . It will guide you through the dense Roydon Woods nature reserve and over Setley Plain . Finally, you'll arrive at Buckland Rings, a historic site that served as a hill fort during the Iron Age.

Who says you can't enjoy water-based activities in the winter? Certainly not the New Forest Activities center. They boast kayaking, canoeing, and other fun adventures (including land-based activities) throughout the year. No matter what activities you choose, you'll be in awe of the winter landscape in the New Forest.

When it's time to warm your toes by a fire and enjoy a toasty stew, head to Lyndhurst. One of the best small towns in England , this little charmer lies in the heart of the New Forest.

A winter vacation to the Isle of Rona is about as cozy and romantic as you can get in the UK. A small and remote island located between the Isle of Skye and western Scotland, this teeny isle (it's only five miles long) is home to only two permanent residents and four cottages; three of which can be rented.

The cottages are lovely, fronted with stone and topped with slate. They boast underfloor heating and wood burners, so you'll easily beat the chill of a Scottish winter. With no shops or even roads on the island, be prepared to go off grid. You'll have to bring your food and drink with you. Think of it like camping but in luxurious accommodations.

The island itself is what people gravitate towards. It's peppered with varied terrain so beautiful that you'll forget about feeling wet and cold. Secret lochs and coves, rocky outcroppings, mossy woodlands, and of course, the dramatic Sound of Raasay . Wild animals like the red deer, otter, and seals populate the island, and various species of birds can be spotted.

Getting here isn't easy. You'll have to board a boat in Portree, and it only runs once a week. The trip takes about an hour and the walk to your cottage is about a kilometer away.

The charming seaside town of St. Ives in Cornwall is not only one of the best places to visit in winter in the UK for its stunning scenery, but it's also one of the mildest spots in the country at this time of year . Temperatures in this most south-westerly corner of the UK are generally a few degrees warmer, with snow a rarity. It also experiences less rainfall, too, which makes getting outdoors and exploring this lovely coastal town a pleasure at any time of year.

If you can visit in the lead-up to Christmas and New Year, so much the better. December brings with it a wide array of fun things to do in St. Ives, from a lovely lantern parade to a Christmas Market showcasing gifts and crafts made by local artisans. You'll also want to attend a pantomime. These family-friendly sendups of famous fairy tales are held at St. Ives Theatre and are a hoot for all ages, with plenty of jeering and booing expected from the audience.

The post-Christmas period is another good time to visit, with polar dips on Boxing Day for hardy types not averse to a cold swim. New Year's Eve is also fun, with a carnival and parade attracting residents and visitors dressed up in colorful costumes.

Even if you miss the festive season, the stunning coastline around St. Ives offers up memorable experiences of its own. Coastal walks , especially around the South West Coast Path, can be exceptionally atmospheric and beautiful during the winter months.

More on England

Top Things to Do in London in January

Just because the festive season is over doesn’t mean the fun has to stop in London. With January comes a plethora of different activities to get stuck into, from nabbing a bargain in the New Year sales to exploring contemporary art at The London Art Fair. Here’s our list of the top things to do in London in January.

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Women cheerleading at the London New Years Day Parade. Attending this event is one of the top things to do in London in January

Image Courtesy of NYDP

Continue the celebrations at London’s New Year’s Day Parade

The New Year’s Eve celebrations might be over, but the festivities continue. Every year, while many Londoners are likely nursing a horrific hangover, there’s a dazzling London New Year’s Day Parade that’s taken place every year since 1987 in the heart of the city (except for during Covid times). This year, the celebrations kick off at noon and include a variety of floats and performances, including marching bands, live music, choirs, Samba dancing, car shows, and much more. The parade starts outside of the Ritz at Piccadilly and meanders down Regents Street, St James’s, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square and Whitehall. Find a spot along the route or splash the cash on a grandstand ticket.

London New Year’s Day Parade | Central London | WA | 1st January 2024

A traditional Scottish meal served for Burns Nights

Feast your way through Burns Night

Every year in Scotland and across the UK, Burns Night is celebrated to mark the anniversary of one of Scotland’s most famous poets, Robert Burns. It’s usually commemorated by enjoying a traditional Scottish supper and listening to music. There are plenty of restaurants in London that host Burns Night events, including The Fentiman Arms (WA) , a pub located between Oval, Vauxhall and Kennington. They’re serving a classic menu of Scottish food, usually consisting of things like haggis – sheep’s or calf’s offal – and neeps and tatties – swede and potatoes, served in their stunning Refectory room with a welcome drink. There’s also the modern restaurant Rotunda (WA) , who are hosting an evening of whisky tasting and traditional dishes.

Attending the London Short Film Festival like the audience in the image is on e of the top things to do in London in January

Image Courtesy of London Short Film Festival

Get stuck into the The London Short Film Festival

Next on our list of things to do in London in January is for those who consider themselves a bit of a film buff. The London Short Film Festival , founded in 2003 and running for 20 years since, is a festival that includes ten days of short films, Q&As, multidisciplinary curation and live events. Expect to see between 250-500 British and international films that have all been carefully picked from more than 5000 submissions. It’s a great opportunity for those in independent filmmaking to get their work seen.

London Short Film Festival | Various Locations | WA | 19th – 28th January 2024

A visitor on a shopping spree at Oxford Street

Image Courtesy of Oxford Street

Go shopping in the New Year sales

Every year, shops all over London and the UK erupt into New Year sales, turning the city into a shopper’s paradise. From the iconic streets of Oxford Street to the trendy boutiques of Covent Garden , you’ll discover unbeatable deals on everything from fashion and electronics to homeware and more. It’s the perfect chance to snag a bargain. Although Oxford Street is the obvious shopping destination in London, it can get super crowded and overwhelming. Head to Marylebone High Street for the best independent shops, ranging from quirky boutiques to tucked-away hidden gems. There’s also Carnaby Street , a pedestrianised shopping street lined with independent boutiques and more than 100 international and British heritage labels. Other places to shop if you want to avoid crowds and explore boutique brands include Broadway Market in London Fields, Church Street in Stoke Newington, Camden Passage in Islington and Redchurch Street in Shoreditch. If you’d rather shop second-hand and hunt for discounted vintage treasures and unique gifts, a venture to Brick Lane and Shoreditch is a must.

For more second hand shops, check our favourites here .

Visitors attending the London Art Festival, which is one of the things to do in London in January

Image Courtesy of London Art Fair

Discover modern art at The London Art Fair

Explore the best of modern and contemporary art galleries from around the world at the London Art Fair , taking place in Islington’s Business Design Centre in January. Expect a timetable of captivating talks and events alongside a line-up of more than 100 leading galleries from around the world, as well as thousands of British artworks by renowned and emerging artists, curated by some of the leading galleries in the UK. From immersive installations to tours and talks, this event is a must for any avid art lover (and read this article next for more art-themed things to do around London ).

London Art Fair | Islington | WA | 17th – 21st January 2024

Vendors serving the customers at Borough Market

Image Courtesy of Eating Europe

Wander around a covered food market

Strolling through the bustling aisles of a covered London food market in January is a tasty adventure that offers respite from the winter chill. Take in the aromas of street food from around the world and peruse the stalls of artisanal cheeses, aromatic spices, freshly baked pastries, and more, all under shelter. Mercato Mayfair (WA) is an indoor food hall located in a stunning Grade-I listed Church with striking stained glass windows and stone columns. There’s also Borough Market that’s outside but covered. It’s one of London’s oldest food markets and is best explored on the Eating Europe Borough Market Tour . You’ll be taken around the market with a local foodie guide who will take you to taste all the classic British drinks and dishes, like fish and chips and a pint at a beloved English boozer. You’ll meet local vendors and get to know the artisans behind many of the stalls.

Participants running a 3k in Hyde Park for the Serpentine New Years Day Fun Run

Image Courtesy of Serpentine Running Club

Start as you mean to go on at The Serpentine New Year’s Day Fun Run

If your New Year’s resolution is to get fit, why not kick-start the year by participating in The Serpentine 3K Fun Run on New Year’s Day? Held in the picturesque surroundings of Hyde Park, this fun run invites participants of all ages and fitness levels to join in the celebration of health, community, and the fresh start of a new year. The scenic route takes you around the iconic Serpentine Lake, offering a refreshing experience amidst the crisp winter air. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or simply looking for a lighthearted way to begin the year, The Serpentine New Year’s Day Fun Run is the perfect way to launch into the new year.

The Serpentine New Year’s Day Fun Run | Kensington Gardens | WA | 1st January 2024

Primrose Hill on a sunny day in winter; visiting parks for brisk walks is one of the things to do in London in January

Enjoy a wintry walk around one of London’s lush parks

Last on our list of things to do in London in January includes getting a good dose of fresh air. London’s parks are as lush as it gets and there are more than eight million trees scattered around the city, making it one of the world’s largest urban forests. A brisk winter walk is a must in January, from the swan-dotted lake in Victoria Park (WA) to the Buddhist peace pagoda in Battersea Park (WA), each park offers something different. Stroll to the very top of Primrose Hill (WA) for epic city views, or walk along an abandoned railway line from Finsbury Park .

Feeling overwhelmed trying to make your London itinerary? It’s SO hard to do, since the city is SO big and there’s too many things to choose from (plus how do you fit them all together?) Luckily, we’ve made your itinerary for you so you can make the most of your limited time. Grab one of our London itineraries ASAP .

Things to Do in London when it’s Raining
Things to Do in London in Winter
Things to Do in London if you’re an Art Lover

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Jessica Dellow

Jessica Dellow is an East Londoner who loves to travel the world and eat her way around the city. When she's not eating, cooking or hanging out in the local pub, you’ll probably find her walking one of her BorrowMyDoggy dogs in Victoria Park with a coffee in hand.

Jess Dante - Founder

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Visit The Cotswolds

The UK’s number one guide to the Cotswolds.

November 30, 2023

What is there to do in the Cotswolds in January?

As winter’s chill sets in and the Cotswolds dons a frosty, picturesque cloak, it’s the perfect time to discover the hidden treasures and cosy delights that this enchanting region has to offer.

While January may be known for its colder temperatures and shorter days, it’s also a time when the Cotswolds come alive with unique experiences and a charm all its own. From idyllic villages nestled among rolling hills to roaring fires in centuries-old pubs, the Cotswolds in January promises an unforgettable journey through quintessential English countryside.

Join us as we explore the best things to do (and find events here !) in the Cotswolds during this magical winter month, where every quaint corner reveals a story waiting to be told and a warm welcome to be received.

So, bundle up, grab a hot cup of tea, and let’s embark on an adventure through the Cotswolds in January like no other!

Things to do in the Cotswolds in January

If you’re considering a trip to the UK or specifically the Cotswolds in January, our blog post is here to make it easier than ever to plan your trip.

While warm-weather travel might be the preference for many, there are numerous benefits to embarking on a winter journey. Maybe you prefer the cooler months, have a little holiday time to use up, or simply prefer the quieter months!

What to expect in the Cotswolds in January

If you feel like soaking up a little winter sun in the Cotswolds this January, there are a few things you should know before booking your trip…

1. The Cotswolds in January is pretty quiet

Visiting the Cotswolds in January holds a distinct advantage—while everyone else flocks here during the summer, in the winter you’ll have these picturesque villages all to yourself (mostly!).

You may also like: Christmas In The Cotswolds: Ultimate Guide

Indeed, January in the Cotswolds is a far quieter period for tourists, granting you the rare opportunity to explore the streets of Bibury in solitude, pop into a Stow-on-the-Wold shop without enduring long lines, and savour the unspoiled beauty of Dover’s Hill with no one else to disturb your view.

2. Expect cold weather!

For some, the Cotswolds can be pretty damn cold, but what you consider ‘cold’ can depend greatly on where you’re travelling from! However, in the UK, January is typically the coolest time of the year. During this month, the Cotswolds experience an average temperature ranging from approximately 1-6°C.

It’s the perfect weather for bundling up warmly and embarking on a tour of the exquisite Cotswold villages!

3. Expect short, dark (ish) days

It’s important to note that January can still be quite dim with just an average of 54 hours of sunshine for the whole of January. So, make sure you soak up the sunshine while you can!

When you plan your visit to the Cotswolds in January, keep in mind that the days are comparatively short.

So, what should you add to your bucket list for the Cotswolds in January? Well, let’s take a closer look…

What to do in the Cotswolds in January

Cheltenham racecourse

Frequent Cotswolds visitors are likely aware that ringing in the New Year at the Cheltenham Races on New Year’s Day is one of the most exhilarating ways to commence the year. However, there are numerous other winter events to enjoy as well. Tickets are now available for Festival Trials Day on Saturday, January 27, 2024, with prices starting at just £10 for entry to the Best Mate Enclosure and £25 for the Club/Tatts Enclosure.

Visit the oldest pubs in England

Embarking on a winter pub crawl in the Cotswolds is a pub crawl like no other. The reason lies in the fact that our region is home to some of the world’s most ancient pubs. As you step inside, anticipate the welcoming embrace of roaring fires, low-hanging beams, medieval stone walls, and an authentic ambience that transports you to a bygone era.

You may also like: Embracing The English Weather: Rainy Day Activities In The Cotswolds

There’s an undeniable romantic charm to our cherished haunts, where every dish is crafted with locally sourced ingredients and infused with the love of the Cotswolds. Among the top-notch pubs where you can warm your soul is The Swan at Southrop, Red Lion Inn at Chipping Campden, The Swan Hotel at Bibury, and The Castle Inn at Castle Combe. If you’re seeking a nearby gem, don’t miss The Wild Duck at Ewen or The Potting Shed at Crudwell.

Enjoy stargazing

Nestled within the enchanting Cotswolds are some of the most pristine night skies in England, owing to the region’s minimal light pollution and splendidly secluded locations.

Bundle up all cosy and venture out to Aunt Phoebe’s Recreation Ground, South Park, Painswick Beacon, or the Rollright Stones Ancient Monuments on a crisp, clear night to witness the splendour of stars and constellations illuminating the heavens.

Go for a winter ramble

In this corner of the world, winter strolls and discovering cosy local pubs are a harmonious pair. We wholeheartedly endorse the idea of blending the two experiences. There’s nothing quite like a brisk walk to balance out a hearty lunch, just as there’s nothing like a refreshing pint to soothe your soul after a lengthy jaunt.

In the Cotswolds, you’ll find hiking getaways tailored to every type of explorer, so don your warm and comfy clothes (and shoes!), bring along your four-legged companion if you wish (as there are plenty of dog-friendly hotels !), and prepare to embark on an enchanting adventure through the Cotswold winter wonderland.

Spent time at Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

If you’re eager to have a close encounter with rhinos, meerkats, penguins, and an array of wildlife, look no further than this expansive 160-acre park. Here, you’ll encounter over 260 species of animals, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Additionally, it boasts one of the UK’s most extensive collections of reptiles, where you can marvel at the likes of crocodiles, lizards, frogs, and various snakes, including formidable green anacondas and venomous species like black mambas.

It’s important to note that during the final three weeks of January, the park operates on weekends only.

Visit the miniature village in Bourton-on-the-Water

Nestled in Bourton-on-the-Water, this remarkable attraction stands out as one of the finest family-friendly destinations in the area. It’s a one-ninth-scale replica of the village and holds the unique distinction of being the sole Grade II-listed model village in the entire country.

Notable features of this miniature marvel encompass meticulously crafted tiny trees, miniature structures constructed from authentic Cotswold stone, a true-to-life replica of the River Windrush complete with flowing water, and a petite model church where you can even listen to the choir’s melodious voices.

Enjoy the views from Broadway Tower

Though its beauty endures throughout the year, there’s a certain enchantment in trekking around this folly, perched high on the escarpment above the picturesque village of Broadway , especially on a clear January day.

Ascend to the rooftop viewing platform, which happens to be the Cotswolds’ highest point officially recognised, and be treated to awe-inspiring vistas that stretch across 16 counties, spanning an impressive 62 miles in every direction.

Marvel at the Painswick Rococo Gardens

Crafted in the 1740s as an extravagant pleasure garden for the proprietor of Painswick House and his visitors, this site stands today as the nation’s sole fully preserved rococo garden.

Whether adorned with a delicate blanket of snow in January or not, Painswick serves as an ideal winter destination for savouring panoramic vistas of the neighbouring countryside, leisurely strolls, navigating the heart of the maze, and savouring delectable homemade fare at the inviting café.

Go for afternoon tea

January might not be your typical time to indulge in an afternoon tea, but rest assured the Cotswolds’ delights are well worth it! Sit back and enjoy a selection of sweet and savoury treats, whether you opt for afternoon tea at Dormy House , The Frog Mill or Burleigh Court.

Find our personal favourite places to enjoy afternoon tea!

Common questions about winter in the Cotswolds

When is the winter solstice.

The winter solstice marks an astronomical event, signifying the year’s shortest day, typically occurring on December 21st, although this year it falls on December 22nd. In the days leading up to the solstice, the sun gradually approaches the horizon with each passing day, resulting in weaker daylight, shorter days, and longer nights.

You may also like: The Best Dog Friendly Cottages In The Cotswolds

What about New Year’s Eve in the Cotswolds?

If you’re looking to visit the Cotswolds this New Year’s Eve, there’s plenty to do and more than enough places to stay to see in the New Year. Plenty of pubs and restaurants host special events, including live music alongside their delicious food and drink offerings.

Take a look at the best places to stay this New Year’s Eve.

Ready to visit the Cotswolds in January?

No matter what you feel like getting up to in the Cotswolds in January, it’s the perfect time of year to explore this beautiful region. Whether you’re looking for a little winter sun, fancy planning some winter walks or even indulging in some private tours – there’s more than enough to do! Check out our Cotswolds events page for more information.

So grab yourself a hot chocolate, and take advantage of the short daylight hours during this rather cold month! Looking for somewhere to stay? Take a look at our places to stay page for the perfect home away from home accommodation.

With thanks to Go Cotswolds.

More to explore...

Visiting The Cotswolds or ‘The Cotswalds’!

Things to do in Painswick: Making the most out of your visit

Top 5 Cotswolds Activities for Families

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34 Best Countries to Visit in January (Perfect for Relaxation & Adventure)

Posted on Published: September 3, 2022 - Last updated: January 5, 2024

Dreaming of a January getaway? From amazing beach vacations to exploring winter wonderlands, the winter is a fantastic time to travel! So if you’ve ever wondered what are the best countries to visit in January – here’s your list.

best countries to visit in January view of longboats in Thailand on beach

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my disclosures .

Whether your idea of the best place to visit in January is to escape the cold and look for sun or the beach, or you’re wishing for snowy adventures like skiing and ice castles, this list has a little bit of everything.

Some of these destinations are in the shoulder season, so you’ll find affordable pricing, which is always a bonus, too! From experiencing destinations with tons of culture to cities with amazing food scenes, you’ll find the perfect spot for your vacation in January.

Covering countries from all over the world, this list is going to inspire you to start searching for flights! Let’s dive in!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Map of the best countries to visit in January

From the Alps to the Caribbean and some underrated spots you haven’t thought of, this list covers a lot! Use this map as a visual to help you plan your vacation in January.

Pinch and zoom in to narrow down on a region that you’re considering, then check out the descriptions below.

Oh, and by the way, since I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list but haven’t been everywhere yet, I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help with this list. I think you’re gonna love it.😉

Best countries to visit in January

January is a fabulous time to travel! Whether you’re looking to escape the winter cold and hit the beach, you’re up for adventure in a new city, or you’re wishing for a winter wonderland to enjoy, here’s some amazing destinations.

1. Costa Rica (one of the best places to visit in January for sun)

view from above beach in Costa Rica teal water white beaches trees

Average temp: high 78, low 64 (varied by region) Fly into: Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose

If you’re looking for the best countries to visit in January, then Costa Rica absolutely needs to be on your radar! Zipline through cloud forests, watch monkeys and toucans dance around in the trees, dip your toes into luxurious sandy beaches and enjoy great food, Costa Rica has so much to offer visitors.

December through April is dry season, as it’s when you’ll see the best weather in Costa Rica. Although the temperatures vary based on which region you travel to, it’s still a great getaway than being stuck in the cold back home.

Visit the famous Arenal Volcano and enjoy the hot springs in La Fortuna. Still in the mountainous region, there are plenty of things to do in Monteverde , including ziplining and walking the suspension bridges through the cloud forests.

For a perfect beach getaway, head west to Tamarindo, where you can hit the water surfing, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. With hotels and restaurants sprinkled throughout the beach, it’s a great spot to spend a few days.

If you’re looking for more adventure, head to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can witness monkeys and sloths hanging about!

Be sure to spend some time at the best beaches in Manuel Antonio , including my favorite, Playa Espadilla Sur. There’s so many things to do in Manuel Antonio , you could spend an entire vacation just in this area.

Costa Rica is definitely one of the best places to visit in January for sun, and a destination you’ll love!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Best countries to visit in January view of ski slopes and snowy mountains

Average temp: high 37, low 27 (varies by region) Fly into: Vienna International Airport, Schwechat

Austria is a landlocked country between Germany and Italy, located in Central Europe. The alps extend from the west to the east and create a perfect winter wonderland every year.

People come from all over the world to enjoy the warm and fun ski resort experience in the Austrian mountains. There is something for everyone, from skiing, ski touring, snowboarding, ice skating, snow walking, sledging to country cross skiing.

A mulled wine or a Jagertee warm up every cold heart! Villages and cities are decorated with wonderful lights, creating a magical dreamy environment, the perfect place for a vacation in January. This is the best time to relax body and soul in some of the most remarkable thermal baths and sauna villages in Central Europe.

Old traditions make Austria a unique place to be in January. They can still be experienced at the beginning of January, the Perchten run in the Tyrol region and the Glöckler run in Styria. The capital city Vienna, as well as other well-known cities such as Salzburg and Innsbruck, are for all those looking for classic inspiration and the vibes of a long gone empire.

Curious travelers can discover more top places in Austria . Definitely check out Vorarlberg, a mountainous state in the west, including the charming Bregenzerwald, Austria .

The weather in Austria in January is usually between 0 and 50 Fahrenheit. The higher one travels, the colder it gets.

The best way to get to Austria is via the Vienna airport, located in the east. Other options include the Salzburg airport, Innsbruck airport or even the much larger Munich airport in Germany.

The Austria Trend Hotels provide the most comfortable and memorable stays in Austria. Budget-travelers will want to look out for homely vacation rental properties. Things can be a bit expensive in Austria in January, but your journey will be less costly than a stay in neighboring Switzerland.

Recommended by Paul of Paulmarina

3. Colombia

view of multicolored Colombia street buildings best places to visit in January

Average temp: high 66, low 45 Fly into: El Dorado International Airport, Bogota

The South American country of Colombia is a great destination in January – in fact, it’s one of the best weather times to visit of the entire year! In January, the sun is shining, the weather is warm (though there is a huge variety of average temperatures throughout the country), and the rain is low.

In general, Colombia is a great place to visit, no matter the time of year. It’s a very inexpensive country to travel to, and there’s a wide variety of things to see and do. The capital city of Bogota has an old town filled with colonial architecture, cobblestoned streets, and a wide variety of historical buildings and world class museums.

Or, you can visit the Coffee Region of Colombia, such as the little, colorful town of Salento. Here, you can visit the coffee farms of Colombia or go hiking in the Cocora Valley, a magical hike into the mountains, where you can see the famous wax palms of Colombia – the tallest palms in the world that grow up to 200 feet high!

Finally, a must visit spot in Colombia is the coastal city of Cartagena, a photogenic, absolutely gorgeous colonial walled city with colorful buildings covered in plants and flowers.

As you travel throughout Colombia, you’ll likely take a quick plane ride between the different cities. Many people choose to start their Colombia adventure by flying into the El Dorado International Airport in Bogota, and staying in Bogota at the Magdalena Guest House is a perfectly located spot to start your exploration of this gorgeous and varied country in South America.

Colombia is one of the best places to visit in January for sun, culture and history!

Recommended by Stephanie of The Unknown Enthusiast

4. Aruba (a favorite on this list of best countries to visit in January)

best place to vacation in January pic of white beach, rocky shore and catamaran in distance

Average temp: high 86, low 76 Fly into: Queen Beatrix International Airport, Oranjestad

If you’re looking for a beachy escape from the clutches of old man winter, look no further than gorgeous Aruba! January is a fantastic time to visit not only to enjoy sunny skies and 80-degree weather, but it’s also a unique place to ring in the New Year .

Typically, New Year’s Eve is kicked off with loads of fireworks throughout the city (if you were planning to sleep – good luck 😉), from large displays over the water to traditional Pagara (long strings of Chinese firecrackers) throughout the streets; there’s no end to colorful and fiery displays.

After that, the party doesn’t stop! Throughout January and into February, there are countless parades like the nighttime Torch Light Parade and other festivities in honor of Carnival . The official start of Carnival is in November, but most of the festivities happen in January and February.

Because of these fun festivities, you should expect to pay a little more for accommodations. To get the best deal, book early!

Aside from a colorful party scene, Aruba is also known for mesmerizing white sand beaches like Palm and Eagle Beach. These are 2 great spots to kick back and relax with a fruity cocktail. They’re some of the best beaches in Aruba !

After relaxing, you’ll have an endless selection of dining options, including Dutch, Asian, African and it’s even one of the most vegan-friendly Caribbean Islands!

Aruba is one of the best beach vacations in January, and a destination you’ll love.

Recommended by Rebecca of Veggies Abroad

rocky shore of Iceland ocean on sunny day best countries to visit in January

Average temp: high 37, low 26 (varies by region) Fly into: Keflavík International Airport, Keflavik

If you’re looking for an epic winter adventure, consider visiting Iceland in January.

While the days may be short here, you’ll get to enjoy Iceland’s spectacular scenery to yourself, given that the summer crowds have long departed. Better yet, you’ll likely get to see Iceland covered with glistening snow. This is a fantastic time to explore the country’s ice caves or go on a glacier hike!

People travel from all over the world to Iceland in January, given that it’s one of the absolute best months to see the spectacular Northern Lights, thanks to the long, dark nights.

You can either book a guided tour to try to find the lights or drive outside of major cities, away from light pollution, to spot them yourself. Patience is key- seeing the lights depends on whether there’s solar activity, as well as whether there’s clouds obscuring the night sky.

Another excellent winter activity here is taking advantage of any of the geothermal hot springs you’ll find scattered throughout the country. The springs may be more natural, like the Hellulaug Hot Pool, which is just an organically-formed pool overlooking the ocean, or can be straight up swanky, like the recently opened Sky Lagoon, with an infinity pool and sauna with stunning views of Kársnes Harbour.

The easiest way to reach this tiny island country is to fly into Reykjavik’s Keflavik International Airport. Iceland’s weather in January is cold, but not as chilly as its Northern location might suggest, thanks to the relatively warm water from the gulf stream- you can expect temperatures to generally range from 26 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit.

So be sure to include lots of warm layers on your Iceland packing list , like a base layer, parka, and gloves so you can actually enjoy exploring Iceland’s incredible landscape.

You’ll love visiting Iceland – perhaps absolute best place to vacation in January for adventure!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

6. Thailand

Average temp: high 89, low 73 Fly into: Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok / Phuket International Airport, Phuket

Thailand is an incredible place, and one of the best countries to visit in January. With a large variety of destinations to see within Thailand, you’ll need to decide what kind of experience you want to have, and plan your vacation accordingly.

If you’re looking for beautiful temples, rich in historic architecture loaded with history, then Bangkok or Chiang Mai might be the right spot for you. Stay in the city a few days to soak in the sights. Be sure to take a food tour, and if your’e in Bangkok, visit the floating markets.

If a beach getaway is what you’re after, you have a variety of choices as well. The Phi Phi Islands offer some of the most pristine beaches in all of Thailand. Or, you can opt for Krabi, where there’s a mix of beaches and historical sights to explore.

Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, and for good reason. With beautiful white sand beaches and plenty of amenities and accommodations, there’s something for everyone.

Take a snorkeling tour or day trip to Coral Island Phuket to see the area. And with an international airport, it’s easier to get to Phuket than some of the other islands in Thailand.

January is a fabulous time to visit Thailand because it’s the dry season. With plenty of sunshine, culture, food and activities, you’re sure to have a great time in Thailand!

7. France (one of the best places to visit in January Europe)

French Riviera in January view of flowers overlooking bay with buildings in distance

Average temp: high 56, low 37 (varies by region) Fly into: Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur, Nice

The month of January is a great time to visit France because it is less crowded. Since it’s part of the low season, hotel and flight prices are more affordable.

Outside of the capital, Strasbourg in the north is a fantastic alternative. The Cathedral, art galleries, and taverns serving hearty plates of sauerkraut and local wines await visitors to this peaceful and unhurried city.

However, the French Riviera may be the best choice for people who prefer a warmer vacation in January. Also known as La Côte d’Azur (Azure Coast), it is accessible via the Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur which is the second busiest international airport in France next to Paris. The French Riviera is a good option for those who prefer milder temperatures.

Visiting the French Riviera in January will show you a more laid-back side of France, free of curious tourists and offering more affordable rates. Fewer visitors mean you get a good deal in even the more expensive hotel rooms, as well as cheaper meals in the area’s top restaurants.

A highly recommended place to stay in the Royal Antibes , a stylish modern hotel with a prime location on the beach. The price of a room with huge glass windows and great views starts at slightly over €100.

You can spend your days touring the Côte d’Azur in between taking in the breathtaking vistas of the sea and basking in the mild Mediterranean weather . Enjoy the crisp winter days hiking the French Riviera’s beautiful trails, including the spectacular route over Èze-village or the Baou above St. Jeannet, with superb views over the Var Valley.

You might also find mimosas in the village of Tanneron, which is also home to Europe’s largest mimosa forest, the Massif de Tanneron.

The town of Menton, meanwhile, is known for its beautiful gardens and well-preserved old town center. The ancient walled city of Antibes is also well worth exploring. And if you want to experience a winter vacation like celebrities, you can also explore Cannes.

Recommended by Christine of Journey To France

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

antigua warm vacation in January white sand beach teal water blue sky

Average temp: high 82, low 71 Fly into:

Situated in the middle of the Leeward Islands, part of the Lesser Antilles, in the American West Indies, Antigua is arguably one of the prettiest Caribbean islands.

Although it is a favorite destination for honeymoons and romantic escapes, it makes a perfect vacation for any kind of traveler that is not on a budget.

It is in fact quite an expensive destination, especially if you choose to stay at one of the beautiful Antigua all inclusive resorts on the pristine Caribbean coast, which is very much recommended if you want to enjoy the island at its best.

Antigua and Barbuda is actually made of the 2 namesake islands and many small islets, some of which are great snorkeling spots that you can visit by joining one of the boat tours available.

Antigua is one of the best countries to visit in January because it’s dry season with less risk of rain. So expect a lot of sunshine and blue sky. But also it’s the most expensive time of the year to travel to Antigua, for the same reason, which is something to keep in mind as well.

Antigua is renowned for its incredible beaches (they say there are 365, one for each day of the year) and spectacular landscapes. Its home to gorgeous scenery with lush hills tumbling over the white sand beaches and the turquoise Caribbean sea.

Among the things you shouldn’t miss in Antigua, besides getting pampered in your gorgeous luxury hotel, are:

Rent a car to explore all the spectacular beaches, including Darkwood beach, Dickenson bay and Half Moon Bay
Dance at the sound of calypso music at Shirley Heights on a Sunday while watching the sun going down
Try the local cuisine in one of the delicious restaurants on the beach
Take a walk around the historical site of Nelson Dockyard at English Harbour and join one of the boat tours around the island.

If you’re traveling on a budget you can also find more modest accommodations but keep in mind that the overall cost of living in the island is high.

Recommended by Isabella of Boundless Roads

Best place to vacation in January

Can you believe this list? And we’re just getting started! Let’s keep exploring all the amazing winter getaways!

Average temp: high 72, low 41 (varies by region) Fly into: Benito Juárez International Airport, Mexico City

If you’re looking for a sunny getaway this January, take a trip adventuring around Mexico. As a massive country, enjoy everything from the vibrant Mexico City to the stunning cenotes of the Riviera Maya to colonial cultural towns and ancient ruins.

With its close proximity to the equator, Mexico enjoys year-round warm weather, making it the perfect place to escape the cold. One of the best months to visit the country, January is in the midst of Mexico’s dry season when temperatures are excellent and rain levels are low.

Average daytime temperature hovers between 75°F-85°F, but differs from region to region. At this time, colder winds and temperatures hit northern Mexico compared to the higher humidity in the south.

Everyone celebrates Christmas in Mexico, and even though January is a bit late for the festivities, enjoy strolling around every town decorated to the brim with holiday decor. January also signals the start of amazing festivals like Merida Fest, Fiesta Grande de Chiapa de Corzo, and Carnaval Jiutepec in Cuernavaca.

Most international flights will land you in the capital Mexico City or other popular tourist hotspots like Cancun or Cabo San Lucas. From there, a fantastic public transportation system can bring you to any neighboring cities and tourist attractions.

For those landing in Mexico City, book a stay in Hotel MX Centro as a starting point for your Mexico adventure!

Recommended by Catherine of Nomadicated

view of malaga Spain from above city buildings with blue sky best countries to visit in January

Average temp: high 62, low 46 (varies by region) Fly into: Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, Malaga

If you are looking for a warm winter destination, the south of Spain and the Spanish islands are excellent options. Enjoy the mild temperatures and sunny days, discover beautiful landmarks and landscapes and immerse yourself in the food culture.

Travelling to the south of Spain or the Spanish islands in January is a smart choice to avoid crowds, extreme heat and high prices on flights and accommodation.

There are many incredible destinations in these parts of Spain, but a popular choice in the south of Spain is Malaga, the best destination for anyone that wants to escape the cold and rainy winter.

Many people believe that Malaga is a summer getaway, however, there are many reasons to visit Malaga in winter .

One of the reasons is the weather. Temperatures are mild and most days are sunny. The average maximum temperature in January is 16.8°C (62.24°F) which is ideal to do outdoor activities.

This time of the year is fantastic for sightseeing and exploring as the heat and humidity in the summer months don’t allow you to do so. When visiting Malaga, you can’t miss attractions like the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress palace, the cathedral and Picasso Museum.

However, if you love nature, you can also enjoy going on beautiful hiking trails. One of the best places to go hiking is Montes de Malaga Nature Park.

Another good reason to visit Malaga in January is to experience the festive period as Christmas ends on the 6th of January. If you are in the city on the 5th, don’t miss the Three Kings Parade.

Last but not least, January is the cheapest month to visit Malaga. If you travel from a European country, you will find amazing and budget-friendly flight fares and good accommodation rates too.

The nearest airport to travel to Malaga is Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) which is 15 minutes from the city centre, and if you are looking for a hotel, Room Mate Valeria offers beautiful and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.

Southern Spain is a lovely winter getaway, and Spain is one of the best countries to visit in Europe in January.

Recommended by Cristina of The Little World of Travelling

Want more Spain travel inspiration? Check out a week in Mallorca – stunning!

11. Belize (another favorite for best beach vacations in January)

belize in January view of boat on the beach with colorful buildings

Average temp: high 83, low 68 Fly into: Goldson International Airport, Belize City

The small Central American country of Belize is a dream to visit if you’re looking for a sunny vacation in January. Offering a variety of things to do in Belize from picturesque islands to fun beach towns and ancient ruins to explore, there’s so much to experience!

January is a great time to travel to Belize because many of the holiday tourists are gone and it’s the dry season, so you’ll have gorgeous weather for exploring.

For a beach vacation, head to Ambergris Caye or Placencia. You’ll find beautiful beaches that aren’t overcrowded like they can be in Florida or other spots in the Caribbean.

If you’re looking for history and culture, head inland to San Ignacio and visit the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins . Learn the fascinating history of how the Mayans lived and operated their stone structures while climbing atop the largest in the complex, El Castillo.

Whether you’re looking for a vacation where golf cart is the preferred method to get around or you’re up for chasing waterfalls and seeing monkeys roam through the jungles, Belize has a destination perfect for you!

12. Maldives

Maldives in January beautiful beach palm tree and pier in distance over ocean

Average temp: high 80, low 77 Fly into: Velana International Airport, Male

If you’re thinking of starting the New Year with a bang, what better way to do this than laying on a dreamy beach, with white powdered sand and sone of the clearest water in the world? A trip to the Maldives should be on everyone’s bucket list , and January is the perfect time to do it.

Although it’s right in the middle of the season, January is perfect for a trip to the Maldives as it’s right after the holidays and just before Valentine’s Day, so the prices are really great during these times. You can even find some affordable water villas if you dig enough, and you can maybe score a nice room at this resort that I’m sure you’ve seen on Instagram already.

Getting there is easy, as there’s one main airport used as a hub, located next to the Capital city of Male. From here, you reach your resort island by either speed boat, seaplane, or a combination of the two, but this is handled by the accommodation itself so you really don’t have to worry about anything while on your trip.

And if you usually have a long list of activities to do while on vacation, you’ll have to adjust when in the Maldives: here, you can only lay on a beach or float in the water.

Of course, you can do various water activities like snorkeling, diving, or going on sunset cruises, or you can lay on a sunbed, hammock, or on a massage table, but you get the point. There’s really no better place in the world to relax than this tropical paradise!

Maldives easily earns a spot on this list of the best countries to visit in January!

Recommended by Cristina of Honest Travel Stories

13. Singapore

view of two towers lush foliage with buildings in distance best countries to visit in January Singapore

Average temp: high 87, low 75 Fly into: Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

Singapore is one of the best countries to visit in January for those looking for a warm and sunny getaway. The weather is hot and humid year round but January is one of the cooler months making it a great time to visit.

The temperature will still be hot so it is best to see indoor attractions during midday and early afternoon. The evening is a great time to walk around and explore as Singapore is considered one of the safest countries in the world.

One of the top and most unique Singapore attractions is Gardens by the Bay, a large nature park with both outdoor and indoor gardens and conservatories. Don’t miss Supertree Grove, made up of huge tree-shaped vertical gardens, that puts on free light and music shows every night.

Another must do is to walk along the waterfront promenade while enjoying skyline views and passing by landmarks including the ArtScience Museum, Helix Bridge and the Merlion statue . Explore and dine at one of the many interesting city neighborhoods such as Kampong Glam, Little India, and Chinatown.

The beautiful Singapore Botanic Gardens is also worth visiting. R ide the cable car to Sentosa Island for family friendly attractions and beaches.

Singapore is very easy to reach by air as it is home to Changi Airport, which is considered an attraction itself. Consider staying at a hotel with a rooftop pool such as the Marina Bay Sands , the iconic hotel known for its long rooftop infinity pool.

Recommended by Matilda of The Travel Sisters

14. Switzerland

best places to visit in January Europe view of Switzerland snow with mountains in distance

Average temp: high 38, low 28 Fly into: Zurich International Airport, Zurich

Switzerland is definitely one of the best places to visit in Europe in January if you like snow!

Since 60% of the country consists of the Alps, it’s designed for winter sport activities. Switzerland has an incredible number of famous ski resorts with a high amount of lifts and gondolas to take you into the beautiful winter wonderland.

Impressive landscapes, exemplary service and snow reliability, you can expect great skiing and snowboarding in Switzerland. The Alpine country has a lot to offer when it comes to winter sports.

The mountain village of Zermatt, for example, impresses with a total of 360 kilometers (223+ miles) of slopes and over 60 lifts. It’s the largest ski area in Switzerland and one of the best ski resorts in the world.

Enjoy a little less hustle and bustle, a smaller but just as beautiful is Flumserberg in central Switzerland or Samnaun in the east. No matter which of Switzerland’s many standout spots you choose, t raditional cheese fondue is available almost everywhere , often served in small, beautiful chalets or under open starry skies.

South of the Alps, in Ticino, snow may not be guaranteed in January, but this region scores with the sunniest days in the country. So, if it’s raining or snowing elsewhere in the country in January, you can take a beautiful walk along Lake Lugano and enjoy the snow-covered Alpine peaks through your sunglasses in the bright and warm sun.

Pro tip: come to Switzerland in January and bypass the school winter vacations, the country’s slopes are a little less busy.

The biggest airport in Switzerland is Zurich and thanks to a great developed railroad network, you can reach almost any place in the country from Zurich in 3 hours.

Recommended by Linda of Hiking the Alps

15. Guatemala (perfect for a low-key January getaway)

Best countries to visit in January- Guatemala street art murals colorful buildings with mountain in background

Average temp: high 75, low 54 Fly into: La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City

Guatemala is a great vacation in January as it’s the peak dry season. Enjoy warm weather, great culture and amazing adventures.

It’s a budget destination, so your money will stretch further here than in nearby countries such as Costa Rica and Panama.

Top travel destinations in Guatemala include Antigua and Lake Atitlan. Antigua is a beautiful Spanish colonial city with many things to do. In fact, it’s one of the best tropical Christmas destinations in the Americas.

The #1 attraction near Antigua is climbing Acatenango Volcano and witnessing its’ neighbour, Fuego (Fire) Volcano, erupting every 30-40 minutes. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed!

A 3 hour drive from Antigua will take you to the central highlands and Lake Atitlan . The lake is a magical place with a near-perfect mid-20s temperature (mid-70’s in Fahrenheit) all year round. Surrounded by 3 volcanoes, the views from Lake Atitlan are something special!

There are 12 towns surrounding Lake Atitlan, each offering something a little different and unique. San Pedro is a favorite for backpackers and San Marcos is a favorite for the hippy crowd. Wherever you end up visiting, travel between towns is quick and easy.

Travel between towns across the lake on little boats , known locally as Lanchas. The longest journey will be about 30 minutes and the cost less than $2.

Free Cerveza in Santa Cruz La Laguna is an interesting place to stay. A glamping site with private eco-lodges and tee-pee style tents, there is always something going on.

Enjoy complimentary use of the facilities, such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Santa Cruz is one of the best places on the lake to swim and offers fantastic views of the volcanoes in the distance.

Go for something a little different on your next holiday, go to Guatemala!

Recommended by Wes of Walk About Wes

ice castle sitting on snow in front of snowy trees in Canada

Average temp: high 30, low 13 (varies by region) Fly into: Calgary International Airport, Alberta

So many destinations in Canada turn into the most magical winter wonderland during the month of January, and are sure to cure anyone’s post-holiday blues.

One of the most exciting places to visit is the Canadian Rockies region and Banff National Park. At Lake Louise, you’ll have the chance to skate across the frozen lake with a backdrop of the snow-capped mountains.

This outdoor ice rink has even been named the world’s best by CNN ! During the month of January, the entrance to the lake is surrounded by a beautiful ice castle , which will have you feeling like you’re in a snow globe in no time.

Through most of January, Canyon Lights puts on an amazing display at the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver. This bridge is one of the most scenic places to visit in Canada year-round, but when the bridge and surrounding park are aglow with thousands of twinkling lights, it’s even more amazing to experience.

Heading over to the East Coast side of Canada, the best place to vacation in January is Old Quebec, a historic section of Quebec city. This area has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and will have you feeling you’ve been transported to Europe.

Many of the picturesque streets will still have their holiday decor and lights up through most of January, and are especially magical after a snowfall. Visitors can enjoy rides down a toboggan chute, which has been operating for the last 135 years.

To visit Banff National Park and Lake Louise, you’ll want to fly into Calgary, and from there, you’ll need to rent a car to get around. If you want to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge’s Canyon Lights display, you can fly right into Vancouver, and rely on public transportation and ride share services to get around. Then to visit Old Quebec, the best airport to fly into is Quebec City Airport.

Canada offers a variety of experiences, and it’s definitely one of the best countries to visit in January.

Recommended by Sam of New England Wanderlust

More of the best countries to visit in January

Not even half done with the list. Do you have your January getaway picked out yet? Here’s more fabulous ideas ahead…

17. Australia

Sydney skyline view of harbor bridge and buildings in distance with blue sky one of the best countries to visit in January

Average temp: high 79, low 66 (varies by region) Fly into: Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport, Sydney

One of the best countries to visit in January for sun is Australia . On the other side of the hemisphere, January is one of the warmest summer months.

Australia is an enormous country which means that temperatures can vary depending on where you go. From as warm as 89 F(32 C) degrees in Perth to as “cold” as 79 F (26 C) in Melbourne.

Besides the sunny weather, Australia has a lot more to offer. With a 21,126 miles (34,000 KM) long coastline, you can find beautiful beaches and cliffs all around the country. This makes beach hopping and surfing 2 of the most popular things to do in the country.

Nature lovers will have no shortage of green scenery as Australia is the number one country when it comes to the most national parks worldwide (over 650).

A good place to start your Australian vacation is Sydney. It’s home to the largest airport that has the most international flight connections. On top of that, Sydney is also just a beautiful and lively city with amazing beaches.

For outdoor lovers, its close proximity to the Blue Mountains National Park is perfect . And wine lovers will enjoy a day trip to the Hunter Valley to try some Australian wine and bring home a unique Australian souvenir .

For solo travelers, The Wake-Up Bondi hostel is a great place to stay. If you’re looking for a hotel, the Travelodge Hotel Sydney Martin Place is a good option too.

Recommended by Lara of The Best Travel Gifts

best places to visit in January for sun view of the desert with pillow sand at sunset

Average temp: high 75, low 59 Fly into: Dubai International Airport, Dubai / Abu Dhabi International Airport, Abu Dhabi

If you’re looking to soak in the warm winter sun, then the UAE makes for an amazing destination. This Middle Eastern country is home to 7 Emirates, Dubai and Abu Dhabi being the most popular ones.

Both these glamorous Emirates have their own international airport and an array of hotels to choose from. From ultra-luxurious to boutique properties, from business hotels to glamping sites and from desert retreats to oceanfront suites, the accommodation offer is downright dazzling.

With daytime temperatures averaging 24°C or 75°F and nighttime temperatures averaging 15°C or 59°F, January is an excellent month to spend your vacation days outdoors without suffering from the scorching heat that affects the UAE most of the year .

You could choose to spend your days relaxing at a soft white sand beach, admire the view from the observation deck at the world’s tallest building, take an adventurous desert safari from Dubai , soak up the atmosphere of the souks, visit the mesmerizing Abu Dhabi mosque , cruise the Arabian Gulf by speedboat, kayak through the mangroves or zipline between the most spectacular mountainscapes.

And fashionistas will certainly appreciate the Dubai Shopping Festival that takes place in January. So, when an action-packed winter vacation with a touch of glamour is what you’re looking for, then the UAE will not disappoint!

The UAE is one of the best places to visit in January for sun and adventure!

Recommended by Sarah of CosmopoliClan

19. Portugal

vacation in January to Portugal view of bridge pier boats street vendors

Average temp: high 59, low 47 (varies by region) Fly into: Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport, Porto

Portugal is a charming winter destination and is one of the top warm European places to visit in January. Portugal’s temperate climate is perfect for a wonderful vacation across the country.

Start your Portuguese adventure with the second-largest city in Portugal, Porto. It’s a city famous for its association with port wine.

From boat trips on the Douro River to discovering hidden architectural gems, there are plenty of places to visit in Porto . The old Historic Centre of Porto, alongside the nearby Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Rumoured to be the inspiration behind the Harry Potter books, Livraria Lello is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and one of the must-visit attractions in Porto.

Next, climb the Clerigos Tower for a stunning view over the city skyline. No visit to Porto is complete without taking a tour of its famous port wine cellars. You’ll find many of them in Gaia, on the other side of the Douro River.

Finally, head down to Matosinhos beach and Foz do Douro promenade for a day out by the beach. The closest airport to the city is the Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, which is well-connected to the city by public transport.

You can also add the vibrant capital city of Lisbon to your holiday itinerary. Lisbon is one of Europe’s sunniest cities, having received more days of sunshine than any other European capital.

When visiting Lisbon, be sure to check out the best things to do in Almada , too. You’ll love visiting Portugal. It’s deserving of a spot on this list of best places to visit in January (Europe).

Recommended by Moumita & Sankha of Chasing the Long Road

20. USA (so many can’t miss destinations for a vacation in January)

best place to vacation in January view of bay with pier palm trees and mountains surrounding

Average temp: high 68, low 46 (in the southern region – varies greatly throughout) Fly into: Denver International Airport, Denver / Kahului Airport, Maui / Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, San Juan

Similar to Canada, Mexico and Australia, the USA has a variety of climates and destinations perfect for January. And although it’s impossible to choose just one, these popular January destinations in the USA are all great for wintertime travel.

Vail or Breckenridge , Colorado offer some of the best ski resorts in the world! If you’re looking for a perfect winter getaway with fluffy white snow, consider the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

Hawaii is an obvious choice if you’re looking for warm vacations in January in the US, since it’s average high temperatures hover around 80 degrees throughout the islands.

Watch the sunset on Haleakala in Maui , take a helicopter ride over the NaPali Coast in Kauai, visit the impressive Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, or hike to the top of Diamond Head to overlook Waikiki Beach in Oahu. Hawaii is full of adventure!

Another hot spot for a best place to vacation in January is Puerto Rico . There’s so many things to do in Old San Juan , including visiting the 500+ year old fort, El Morro. And if you’re looking for a perfect beach, head to Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico on the nearby island of Culebra.

Without a doubt, the USA offers some spectacular January getaways!

21. El Salvador

beach in El Salvador with black sand palm trees and buildings with reflection in waves

Average temp: high 85, low 64 Fly into: San Salvador Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport, San Luis Talpa

El Salvador is an underrated destination in Central America, and one of the best countries to visit in January. A great spot to visit in El Salvador is the town of El Tunco.

Located on the Pacific coast, El Tunco, El Salvador , is a great getaway in the middle of winter. The weather is hot and sunny, with temperatures averaging in the high 80s. January is one of the best times to visit El Tunco because it’s the middle of the dry season, so the chance of a downpour is minimal.

The best things to see and do in El Tunco involve enjoying its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for swimming and surfing. You can also sunbathe but some of the beach areas are a bit pebbly, especially right after high tide.

If you want a chill vibe, you can take some yoga classes and relax in a beach hammock. Or if you’re up for some adventure, you can explore the beach caves (low tide only) or go waterfall hiking.

There are also a number of restaurants and bars in the town. The best thing to eat in El Tunco is pupusas, the national food of El Salvador! These thick corn tortillas are filled with meat, cheese, and/or beans.

If you want to party 24/7, there are a number of party-focused hostels in town. If you want to get a good night’s sleep after going out but still be close to the action, stay at Eco del Mar Hotel .

El Tunco is easy to get to from the San Salvador airport. It’s just a short drive to the coast on well-paved highways. You can hire a driver in advance, rent a car, or just call an Uber at the airport.

If you’re looking for a fun, affordable vacation destination in January, El Tunco is definitely worth considering.

Recommended by Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

visiting belgrade serbia in the winter view of large church with snow on ground and white clouds

Average temp: high 39, low 28 Fly into: Nikola Tesla International Airport, Belgrade

Serbia is the best place to vacation in January if you love Christmas and lengthened holiday seasons. As a country with Christian Orthodox as its major population, Serbia celebrates Christmas on January 7th. And on top of that, in addition to the New Year on January 1st, they also celebrate Serbian New Year based on the Julian calendar on the 15th.

The best way to visit Serbia is to fly to Nikola Tesla International Airport in Belgrade, or you can easily travel by car from the neighboring countries in Balkan .

Serbia is quite small, so you can easily travel from the north to the south of the country for a week or two. Depending on the location, there are many things to do in Serbia in January. From enjoying the nightlife scene in Belgrade to spending your winter wonderland in popular ski resorts like Zlatibor or Kopaonik, there is always something for everyone!

For accommodation, you can easily find budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals in each city. If you have a little extra budget for your accommodation, take a chance to stay at the Moskva Hotel in the heart of Belgrade. One of the most important landmarks in Serbia, the hotel has become a cultural heritage in the capital city since 1968.

Recommended by Marya of The BeauTraveler

23. Philippines

view of best places to visit in January for sun Philippines boat on blue water with rocky cliffs nearby

Average temp: high 86, low 74 Fly into: El Nido Lio Airport, Palawan / Puerto Princesa International Airport, Puerto Princesa

With the dry season in full swing, the Philippines is one of the best places to visit in January for sun . You can expect the weather to be hot and humid, yet there will always be a beach nearby when you feel the need to cool off.

One of the best places to visit is the island of Palawan, which has been voted to be “the most beautiful island in the world” multiple times by Travel + Leisure’s Best of Awards .

Once you’re there, it’s easy to see why. In the northern part of the Palawan near El Nido you’ll find beautiful islands, turquoise-blue lagoons, and jagged limestone cliffs. Thus, island hopping is one of the best things to do in Palawan !

If you don’t want to take the detour through Puerto Princesa – the capital of Palawan – you can fly to El Nido directly via Airswift from Manila. Some of the best places to stay in El Nido are Frendz Hostel and Blue Mango .

If you’re adventurous, you can also venture out to other places on the island, like San Vicente and Port Barton. San Vicente is known for its 14-kilometer-long beach, whereas Port Barton is a small, laid-back town attracting travelers from all over the world. From here, you can hike through the jungle to get to low-key beaches and even a picturesque waterfall, kayak around the bay, or go snorkeling for sea turtles.

As you can see, no matter where you go in Palawan, you can’t go wrong! You’ll have a wonderful vacation, perfect for a January getaway!

Recommended by Lena of Not Another Backpacker

24. Jamaica (another favorite on this list of best countries to visit in January)

jamaica shoreline view of turquoise water rocks and cliffs best countries to visit in January

Average temp: high 83, low 74 Fly into: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

One of the best beach vacations in January is Jamaica. In the middle of the Caribbean Sea, the hurricane season is over and the rush of holiday travelers is gone. However, January is one of the busiest months for visitors to the island, as many are trying to escape the winter back home.

Relax and rest in luxury at an all-inclusive resort in Montego Bay, Negril or Ocho Rios. From family friendly options to adults-only resorts, there’s something for everyone. Although, make sure to save up for it in advance, as January has some of the highest prices.

Venture off the resort on a day trip to Dunn’s River Falls, ziplining, bamboo rafting, take a sunset cruise or Blue Hole, Negril , amongst many others.

Or, rent a car and explore for yourself. Just be sure to ask your hotel which nearby areas to avoid, as there is some gang crime in Jamaica. And definitely get back before dark.

By the way, Jamaica is a great stop on some of the best young adult cruises , since it’s a destination with so much action and culture.

Whether you’re looking to sit on the beach for a week or soak in the amazing Jamaican food and culture, you’ll love a trip to this tropical paradise!

25. Morocco

Morocco best countries to visit in January view of buildings with green mossy water in foreground

Average temp: high 66, low 45 Fly into: Marrakesh Menara Airport, Marrakesh

January might just be the best time of year for a trip to Morocco. Avoid the hot sticky summer, avoid the busy season and make the most of the moderate temperatures in Morocco during winter.

Marrakech, Essaouira and the Sahara Desert are just some of the destinations you’ll want to add to your Morocco itinerary.

The beautiful chaos synonymous with Morocco is found right in the heart of the medinas of Marrakech. And you can start your journey here with a flight into Marrakech Menara Airport.

Book the Riad Tizwa in Marrakech for a stay to remember, wander Jemaa el-Fna Square in the early evening, shop in the labyrinth of souks and stroll through the Jardin Majorelle. And be sure to dine at all the best restaurants in Marrakech while you’re in town.

But don’t forget to see what else Morocco has to offer in winter. Marrakech is the perfect base to arrange a Sahara Desert tour or a beach adventure to Essaouira.

Book a visit to Merzouga or M’hamid, to see the rolling sand dunes of the Sahara. And on your way include a visit to Ouarzazate to admire the incredible kasbahs of this region. The Kasbah Aït Benhaddou is possibly the most magnificent, made famous by the many movies filmed here.

And finally, don’t miss a couple of days stay in Essaouira to finish your Moroccan adventure. This beach destination is a great little medina town that impresses all. Book a beautiful riad for a true Moroccan experience, ride horses on the beach, walk the ramparts and book a surf.

Morocco vacation in January is always a good idea!

Recommended by Sharon of My Free Range Family

Best countries to visit in January – continued

In the final stretch of this epic list! A few more fun cities and some of the best beach vacations in January yet, let’s wrap up this list with a bang!💥

reflective buildings in pond in Stockholm Sweden

Average temp: high 33, low 26 Fly into: Stockholm Arlanda Airport, Stockholm-Arlanda

If you’re looking for a vacation in January, then the beautiful country of Sweden is a fantastic option! With spectacular cities, unspoiled forests, and breathtaking lakes, it’s no surprise that over 7.5 million people visit every year.

Sweden will take your breath away no matter what time of year you visit, but there’s something special about visiting in January!

During this time of year, the ground is often covered in snow and temperatures will be well below freezing, although that’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a hot chocolate and a Fika!

Sweden is one of the best places to visit in January to extend that ‘festive feeling’ as many of the winter palaces might still be running, especially earlier in the month.

Sweden’s largest airport is Stockholm Arlanda which is just 39 km (24 miles) from the capital city. This often means Stockholm is the first port of call, and you’ll find tons of fascinating things to do here – especially in January!

First of all, you’ll have plenty of ice skating opportunities but the main spot to visit is Kungsträdgården ! Then, you can head to Hammarbybacken if you’re looking to ski or head out on a winter cruise of the archipelago!

If you’re staying in the capital, there’s no shortage of accommodation options but one of the best hotels in the city is Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel .

Other fantastic places to visit in Sweden during January include Swedish Lapland, Abisko National Park, Gothenburg, and Salen.

Just keep in mind that if you’re traveling through Sweden during this time of year, you’ll need plenty of layers . You’ll also want to indulge in a warm drink at every opportunity and fill your belly with delicious Swedish meatballs!

Recommended by Jack & Abbie of A Couples Calling

27. Grenada (another awesome contender for best place to vacation in January)

best countries to visit in January beach with palm trees blue ocean white sand

Average temp: high 86, low 74 Fly into: Maurice Bishop International Airport, Grenada

The island of Grenada in the Caribbean is one of the best islands to visit in January. Located at the southern end of the chain of Caribbean islands, Grenada is still rooted deeply in culture and nature to experience, without a whole lot of big chain influences.

January is an amazing time to visit, as the temperature is roughly 86 degrees year round during the day, and the water stays nice and warm too! It’s the perfect getaway from the winter cold to enjoy warm water, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, a tropical climate and Caribbean culture.

The easiest way to get to Grenada is by flying into Maurice Bishop International Airport. Once you arrive, you can either grab a taxi (they look like small buses) or make your way to a shuttle if your accommodation offers transportation.

There’s a huge range of accommodation options, including many homestay options, more casual resorts, all the way to luxury all inclusives. My recommendation for an eco-friendly boutique hotel is the True Blue Bay Resort , while if you’re looking for something all inclusive, Spice Island Beach Resort .

January does fall within Grenada’s high season, so be prepared for more crowds than if you went during the rainy season (summer months).

Definitely visit one of Grenada’s Best Beaches while there, and try to take an island wide guided tour to experience waterfalls, sulphur springs, cocoa farms, local distilleries or more! Plus, the world-famous underwater attraction, snorkeling the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park is a must-do while visiting the island.

You’ll want to stay in Grenada at least a week to experience all there is to see and do! Grenada is one of the best countries to visit in January. It’s an amazing destination with the welcoming and vibrant Caribbean culture that you don’t want to miss!

Recommended by Taylor of Tea N’ Sea Travel

28. South Africa

view of mountain ridge with town near coast perfect vacation in january

Average temp: high 83, low 63 Fly into: Cape Town International Airport, Cape Town

South Africa is one of the best countries in the world for a January vacation. It’s the ideal spot to take a breath and enjoy life.

January in South Africa sees the weather at its best, particularly in the western regions. Summer below the equator is in full swing, and the air is warm and dry.

However you dream of spending your time, this sizable country is teeming with great adventures and awe-inspiring beauty just for you! Come to South Africa to see the iconic wildlife, enjoy the most picturesque road trips of your life, or explore its astounding urban highlights.

Or try a shark-cage dive off the coast! Whichever activity you choose, your options are countless.

If this abundance of activities doesn’t earn South Africa a vote for the best countries to visit in January, maybe this will: all of these remarkable activities are accessible from the spectacular city of Cape Town. It’s the ultimate base for your South African vacation.

January in Cape Town provides you with the opportunity to attend the Kaapse Klopse . This colorful January 2nd street festival will give you stories to tell! You can also visit famous local treasures such as Table Mountain, the V & A Waterfront, and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, right in Cape Town .

The Cape Town International Airport is just 20 km from the city centre, and services airlines that connect with all parts of the world.

Finding the best home away from home for you is as easy as amazing vacation rental options. How does a seaview apartment or a country cottage sound? It’s all waiting for you!

Recommended by DJ of Introvert with Itchy Feet

29. England

view of England stone bridge over water fountain and building on sunny day

Average temp: high 45, low 35 (varies by region) Fly into: London Heathrow Airport, London

England is an underrated country to visit in January. It’s the perfect mix of winter wonderland and mild temperatures, depending on where you visit.

For example, Oxford and Birmingham typically see dustings of snow throughout January. You may even find enough snow a few days a year to build a small snowman!

But places like Brighton Beach will remain snow-less. There are even days London will be as sunny as in summer!

The mild temperatures attract visitors who are looking to escape the freezing cold of Canada or Scandinavia, but don’t want to pay the inflated prices of a beach vacation. Temperatures average 5C (41F).

Don’t forget to pack a light coat and some waterproof boots , as it can drizzle throughout January.

Luckily, the best things to do in the UK aren’t summer-based.

Having high tea in Covent Garden, touring Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford upon Avon, listening to live music at a pub, and enjoying British stand-up at local comedy houses are all great indoor activities to take advantage of.

There are plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying everything the country has to offer. For starters, take advantage of the many free museums and galleries.

You can also find cheap eats by avoiding tourist traps and sticking to local pubs. And finally, take advantage of the many cheap or free walking tours available in most cities.

The UK is easily accessible from anywhere in the world.

Major airports include London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW). Stanstead is another option, but then you’ll need to take a long train journey.

To get around, take trains for cheap day trips from London to places like Bath and Oxford.

Recommended by Nina of Nina Out and About

30. India (an underrated one on this guide for warm vacations in January)

bangalore palace brick and green palace with formal gardens in front India best countries to visit in January

Average temp: high 83, low 60 (varies by region) Fly into: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi / Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, Bengaluru

While India may be on your travel bucket list , January is also a great time to cross it off!

January in India means it’s dry season, so you don’t need to worry about rain like you do during monsoon season. While India is a large country, narrowing down what you want to see and do will help determine what weather you’ll face and where to fly into .

The northern part of India is home to the famous Taj Mahal. Located in Agra, the Taj Mahal can be visited via day trip from Delhi. One of the new 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal’s grand and impressive architecture is stunning in real life!

In southern India, the popular towns of Bengaluru (aka Bangalore) is a busy city with so many things to do. Bangalore is famous for the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, the Bengaluru Palace, Bull Temple and Cuban Park. Nearby Mysuru (aka Mysore) is a great day trip or weekend getaway from Bangalore. Be sure to watch the lighting of the Mysore Palace – stunning!

If you’re looking for a beach destination in India, Goa is the place to be. With gentle waves, swaying palm trees and beautiful, relaxing hotels, Goa is a great spot to relax and unwind in India. It’s truly a great destination, and one of the best countries to visit in January.

31. The Gambia

Average temp: high 91, low 65 Fly into: Banjul International Airport, Banjul

Perched on the west coast of Africa is a small but charming country known as The Gambia. The Gambia is renowned for its lengthy swathes of golden sand beaches, freshly caught fish and smiling locals.

The Gambia has 2 distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The dry season runs from November to May and is the best time to visit. The temperature at this time of year is pleasant – roughly 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) – and you can expect bright sunshine on most days.

January is also a great time of year to visit due to the country’s annual Banjul Demba Cultural Festival. Here, you’ll witness traditional music and dance performances in the country’s capital city.

The Gambia is a very small country and so only houses one international airport: Banjul International Airport.

Most visitors to The Gambia choose to base themselves in Serrekunda, a vibrant town set behind a glorious stretch of beach, fringed by lazy palm trees.

Serrekunda is a mere 30 minute drive from the airport. It’s easy to grab a taxi from the airport, or you can pre-arrange a taxi with your hotel or via a taxi company beforehand.

Alternatively, you can hire a car in The Gambia . I’d personally recommend pre-booking a taxi from a reputable company as some taxis at the airport are in questionable condition.

There are numerous hotels in Serrekunda for you to choose from but a personal favourite of mine is Luigi’s Complex. It has a very friendly and laid-back vibe and is only a short walk from the beach.

Recommended by Ella of Ella McKendrick

32. New Zealand (by far one of the best countries to visit in January)

New Zealand best countries to visit in January view of landscape with people repelling down cliff with valley in distance

Average temp: high 77, low 53 (varies by region) Fly into: Auckland International Airport, Auckland

A bucket-list destination for many, New Zealand is at the top of its game in January. This summer month brings some of the warmest temperatures in the country, delighting visitors that enjoy sunny days at the beach.

New Zealand is a surprisingly large country – a fact that many people underestimate when planning a vacation. The amount of time you have will affect the places you are able to visit, however, these are some amazing summer spots in Aotearoa.

If you’re able to include them in your itinerary, you’ll be sure to come away happy. After all, New Zealand is one of the best countries to visit in January!

Paihia is located in the Bay of Islands, and though it is beautiful at any time of year, it’s particularly vibrant during the summer season. Known for its stunning beaches, uninhabited islands, settled weather and marine life, this is a must-see in January. Kerikeri is the closest airport to Paihia, but many choose to fly into Auckland and drive up.

Moving down the North Island, the Coromandel Peninsula is another summer-time favourite for locals and visitors alike . Significant highlights include Hot Water Beach (where you can dig your own natural hot pool in the sand), Cathedral Cove and New Chums Beach, all of which are best enjoyed in the warmth of the summer season. Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga airports all service this region.

Finally, a summertime trip to Fiordland should be on your radar. Though this area experiences a lot of rain right throughout the year, this will be your best chance at seeing it on a nice day.

When the weather is still, the mirror reflection of Milford Sound on the water really is incomparable. Queenstown is the closest airport to Milford Sound, though many choose to stay in Te Anau.

Haere mai and welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand.

Recommended by Sarah of New Zealand Travel Tips

Malta buildings with flags concrete plaza

Average temp: high 60, low 49 Fly into: Malta International Airport, Malta

One of the best places to visit in January for sun is the European island of Malta . Actually, Malta is made up of 3 islands, Malta, Gozo, and Comino.

Compared to other European countries, Malta in winter is usually very sunny and in January temperatures can go up to 20 degrees Celsius which on a sunny day feels very pleasant.

One of the best things about going in January is that fewer tourists venture to the island which is mainly considered a summer destination. But what most people fail to realize is that it is the best time for going hiking and exploring the ancient towns.

Malta has a long history, and if you get rainy or windy days it’s perfect to explore underground where you can walk through the World War Two Shelters or discover the old catacombs in Rabat. On the other hand, if the weather is nice, you can easily go for a quick dip in the crystal-clear water.

There are numerous flights connecting Malta with the rest of Europe. In addition, you can take the boat directly from Sicily in Italy.

Getting around Malta by bus is easy, it costs 1.50 Euros for a ticket that lasts you for 2 hours (including bus changes.) On top of that, they have tap and pay so there is no need for cash.

Recommended by Linn of Brainy Backpackers

34. Turks and Caicos (another favorite on this list for best beach vacations in January)

turks and caicos white sand beach teal water blue sky best countries to visit in January

Average temp: high 82, low 74 Fly into: Providenciales International Airport, Turks & Caicos Islands

Last but certainly not least is the dreamy island chain of Turks and Caicos. Definitely worthy of a spot on this list of the best countries to visit in January, Turks and Caicos has unbelievable white sand beaches with the most turquoise water you’ll ever see.

A beach destination with the right mix of good food and water activities, Turks and Caicos is a laid-back island chain where the term ‘island time’ could have been created.

The whimsical nature of the island is perfect for a January getaway when all that matters is what time you should re-apply your sunblock . (By the way, be sure to use ocean-safe sunblock at all times to protect marine life.)

Staying on the main island of Providenciales doesn’t have to break the bank, either. It’s possible to do Turks and Caicos on a budget , without sacrificing a good time on the island chain.

While there, be sure to visit the best beaches on Turks and Caicos . Grace Bay Beach is the most popular, but moving away from the busy tourist spot will provide you with amazing views where you *might* just be the only one there.

Enjoy a dreamy island vacation in Turks and Caicos!

vacation in January view of palapa with chairs and beach in distance

Whew! What a list! From the best beach vacations in January to frozen winter wonderlands, this was a fun guide to put together. So….are you ready to book your flights yet?

Let’s review that list one more time, in a more succinct fashion….

Best places to vacation in January

Switzerland
El Salvador
Philippines
South Africa
New Zealand
Turks and Caicos

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34 incredible vacation spots in January view of boats on beach palm trees and boat near cliffs

Saturday 3rd of September 2022

Fabulous post Nikki! It just shows how many fantastic places there are for holidays in January. When I was younger I would have been tempted by the tropical islands... but now I have learned to ski, places like Austria and Switzerland for would be the best part - those snowy mountain views are beeeautiful!

Tuesday 6th of September 2022

Aw I love your comment, Josy! So glad you'd do a Switzerland or Austria getaway. Both looks so stunning in wintertime!

What a fantastic list! I’m lucky to live in one of the places but I’ll keep this lost for sure for winter holidays!

Ah yes Marga, I agree you're very fortunate! Glad you found some inspiration for new destination ideas, though!

Chelsea Messina

This is such a great list of places to visit in January! I have been dying to visit Costa Rica, but I live in Michigan. So I'll be ready for the Maldives by then!

Ha love it! Either of those places sound perfect during a winter in Michigan!

The Best Things to Do in Scotland in January

There are lots of reasons to visit Scotland in January, including the fact that it’s much quieter than other months and it’s also cheaper, with hotel prices falling by half compared to the summer months. Perhaps best of all, though, tourist attractions in Scotland are blissfully free of crowds during the winter, and queues are virtually non-existent.

Discover the best things to see and do in Scotland in January in this ultimate guide, which includes overviews of the top winter attractions and tips on how to make the most of your visit.

Edinburgh Castle

Out About Scotland visitor guide: Edinburgh Castle

It is a wonderful experience to travel to Edinburgh in January, especially when there’s a light dusting of snow covering the city’s historic attractions. There are so many places to visit in the city that it’s difficult to know where to start, but the ancient castle is usually the first port of call for first-time visitors.

If you have any interest in history, you should definitely visit this attraction because there has been a fort on the site for over 2,000 years, and Scotland’s royalty has used it for at least 1,000 years. The castle dominates the city skyline, where it sits perched at the very top of Castle Rock at the upper end of The Royal Mile , with the equally spectacular Holyrood Palace sitting at the bottom.

The castle encapsulates everything that’s great about the best Scottish attractions. It’s awe-inspiring, ancient, fascinating, situated in a stunning location, and has more things to see and do than you’ll be able to fit into a single visit.

The castle regularly draws more visitors per day than any other in Scotland, so in the summer the queues can be a complete nightmare, but if you visit in January, you’ll find there are hardly any queues at all.

While much of the castle is best seen from the outside there are enough rooms inside that you don’t need to brave the winter weather at all, and you could easily spend all afternoon just viewing the museums. There are interesting exhibitions to walk around, lots of artefacts to look at, cafés, a restaurant, and several gift shops. Basically, Edinburgh Castle rightly deserves its position as the nation’s number-one tourist attraction.

Holyrood Palace

Out About Scotland visitor guide: Holyrood Palace

The palace of Holyrood House (as it’s officially known) is the main residence of the British monarchy in Scotland, and it’s arguably the grandest building in Edinburgh.

The palace is located at the bottom of The Royal Mile in the centre of Edinburgh’s Old Town, and it can be easily walked to after a visit to the castle at the top, but it also has two other attractions right on its doorstep. Directly across the road sits the architectural wonder of the Scottish Parliament building which has free self-guided and guided tours, while the enormous mound of an extinct volcano can be seen in Holyrood Park just a few hundred yards to the south.

Holyrood Palace, meanwhile, has many fascinating points of interest, including the official state apartments of Mary Queen of Scots, the Throne Room, and the Great Gallery, as well as the ruins of Holyrood Abbey and the beautiful palace gardens. And on top of all that, there’s an excellent café, one of the best gift shops of any attraction in Scotland, and an exhibition of paintings from the royal’s private collection.

While the majority of your visit will be inside, there are a couple of outside areas where you can brave the cold weather if you want. First is Holyrood Abbey, which, although partly in ruin, offers a good glimpse into the grandeur that mediaeval royalty would have enjoyed for their religious ceremonies. Second are the perfectly manicured palace gardens, which are well worth a look even in winter (although they’re only open at the weekend in January).

My favourite part of a visit to Holyrood Palace has to be the Queen’s Gallery which features an ever-changing display of paintings, furniture, and photos from the royal collection, and there are also temporary exhibitions that include priceless works of art from other collections. Tickets are a wee bit on the pricey side but they include return entry for the following year, which makes them great value for money.

Glasgow Cathedral

Out About Scotland visitor guide: Glasgow Cathedral

Glasgow boasts the most complete mediaeval cathedral on the Scottish mainland, with a building that features stunning stained-glass windows and incredibly well-preserved ancient chapels. This cathedral (also called St. Kentigern’s or St. Mungo’s Cathedral) is, in my opinion, one of the top places to visit in Glasgow.

The cathedral was built in the 12th century and is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Scotland, which means it attracts hundreds of camera-wielding tourists every day. Thankfully, visitor numbers decrease substantially in January, and I personally prefer visiting it when it’s free of crowds. It’s such an atmospheric place that it deserves peace and quiet to truly enjoy it.

The cathedral is thought to have been built on the site of St. Kentigern’s tomb, which many historians consider the birthplace of Glasgow. There’s a lot to admire about this building, especially the ornate stone carvings which are remarkably well preserved considering they were made nearly one thousand years ago.

The cathedral is absolutely cavernous inside, and even if you’re not remotely religious, you can’t help but feel a wee bit awe-struck by the stained-glass windows, which are among the grandest in Britain. Other highlights include the spooky crypt that was built to house the tomb of St. Kentigern, the Blacader aisle ceiling with its beautiful carved stone bosses, and the seriously ugly gargoyles peeking out from under the rooftop.

Glasgow Cathedral is close to the city centre so it’s easy to get to either on foot or by using public transport, and because it’s so close to The Necropolis (an enormous Victorian cemetery), it’s easy to visit both attractions in a couple of hours. I’d even go so far as to say that these two historic attractions are the most atmospheric in Glasgow, so if you visit them, do yourself a favour and make sure you take your camera.

There are frequent guided tours held by local volunteers that will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about the cathedral, but if you want to wander around it at your own pace you’re completely free to do so. The only thing to remember is that church services are held on Sunday so it might not be possible to visit while they’re running.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Out About Scotland visitor guide: Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum

One of the things I love most about Glasgow’s tourist attractions is that the very best ones are completely free, and Kelvingrove, located in the heart of the city, is no exception. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is the focal point of the beautiful Kelvingrove Park , an 84-acre green space that was created in 1852 as a place of recreation for the city’s residents.

Since it first opened in 1901, this magnificent structure has mesmerised visitors to Glasgow. Inside the museum, you’ll find more than 9,000 artefacts and paintings that depict every aspect of human knowledge, from wildlife and art to Glasgow’s industrial heritage.

Designed to be informative as well as entertaining, Kelvingrove has gained a reputation for being one of the best places in Glasgow for family days out. The constantly changing exhibitions of the museum and art galleries are displayed across multiple different areas, and visitors can enjoy displays that cover themes from modern art, animals, ancient Egypt, Scottish heritage, and everything in between.

There are so many things to see and interact with at this attraction that visitors could easily spend the majority of the day there (which is why it gets so incredibly busy in summer) especially when the surrounding park attracts so many visitors as well. Thankfully, January is much quieter, although it’s still very popular with locals at the weekend.

Glencoe Mountain

Glencoe Mountain is popular with tourists at all times of the year, thanks to the fantastic walks on offer across nearby Rannoch Moor. However, it’s the winter activities that draw thousands of visitors year after year, all looking to make the most of the extreme sports available at one of Scotland’s top winter destinations.

While you probably won’t be making much use of the camping facilities in January, you can at least get involved with other activities including hillwalking, skiing, snowboarding, and sledging. Glencoe Mountain also has some of the longest ski runs in Scotland, so it’s just as well there are 8 chairlifts to take snow sports enthusiasts back to the top after each downhill race.

The resort at Glencoe is the oldest ski centre in Scotland (established in 1956) and has developed a reputation for being the country’s best destination for experienced skiers. It’s famously home to ‘The Flypaper’ – officially the UK’s steepest run – but in recent years it has become equally popular for the sledging area that allows anyone of any skill level to enjoy the snow.

The facilities on offer are pretty good, though they aren’t quite as big as the centre at Cairngorm. But even so, there are 2 on-site cafés (one with a bar), as well as micro lodges if you fancy staying overnight. The views looking out across Buchaille Etive Mor and Rannoch Moor have to be some of the best in the world to wake up to on a crisp January morning, and they make a visit to this mountain range a necessity for winter tourists.

Not far from Glencoe Mountain (around 10 miles and a 20-minute drive) lies another mountain peak that draws thousands of visitors each winter: Bidean Nam Bian . This mountain is well-known amongst Munro climbers (a Munro is a mountain over 3,000 feet) for the incredible views it offers from the ‘Three Sisters of Glen’Coe’ – the three steep ridges on the north face that extend into the Glen.

The mountain rises 1,150 metres at its highest point and has several ascent routes of varying difficulty, although even the easiest route is a bit of a scramble. You can discover more about Glencoe at The Glencoe Exhibition Centre .

The Nevis Mountain Range Experience

The Nevis Range Mountain Experience Centre , located at the foot of Aonach Mor mountain, is widely regarded as Scotland’s premier adventure destination, a claim you’ll likely find yourself agreeing with once you visit the centre for yourself.

While many people associate Ben Nevis with winter skiing and snowboarding, there are lots of other activities you can get involved with at any time of the year, although visiting this majestic mountain when it’s covered with fresh snowfall has to be at the top of most tourists’ ‘must’-do’ lists.

Ben Nevis is part of the Grampian mountain range in the Scottish Highlands , located near the town of Fort William, which is a major tourist destination itself. Over 125,000 walkers visit Ben Nevis each year to follow the mountain track to the summit, but many tourists also head to the Nevis Mountain Range Experience Centre.

The centre offers a starting point for some of the best downhill mountain bike trails in the country and features enough graded routes down Aonach Mor that visitors will find a challenge, whatever their skill level. The centre also operates a fantastic aerial adventure obstacle course at the edge of the nearby Leanachan forest where children and adults can brave tree swings, balance ropes, and zip wires from heights of just 1.5 metres up to a dizzying 10 metres.

Finally, the centre is home to the only mountain gondola in the UK, a ride that sees visitors whisked up the side of Britain’s 8th highest mountain towards incredible views at the top station, which sits 650 metres above the departure point.

My favourite part about visiting Ben Nevis (even better than the gondola ride) is the Snowgoose restaurant at the top station, which serves locally sourced food and drink from a stunning balcony viewpoint.

Cairngorm Mountain Range

The Cairngorms National Park is part of the Grampian Mountains, the Highland range that occupies nearly half of the region. The area is famous for being one of Scotland’s premier snowsports destinations, and there are lots of activities for visitors to enjoy, including the Cairngorm Mountain Funicular Railway which is the highest railway track in Britain.

A journey in one of these carriages will take you up 462 metres on a 1,970-metre track that presents unrivalled views of one of the finest mountain ranges in Scotland.

Because it’s so popular with adventure-sports enthusiasts the area gets very busy, with around 120,000 visitors enjoying the site each winter. However, numbers drop significantly in the first couple of weeks in January so it’s a great time to experience the best of Scotland’s snowsports without being plagued by crowds of people .

Once you get to the peak of the northern slope of Cairngorm Mountain, you’ll be able to enjoy the scenery that stretches for miles in all directions, with Loch Morlich clearly visible below and the mountain ranges of Cairngorm National Park stretching out into the distance.

The Top Station also has an excellent café and restaurant that serves good food, and there’s a sports outfitter and a gift shop up there as well. The restaurant is particularly noteworthy as it has a viewing terrace that provides amazing panoramic views from 1,200 metres above sea level.

In winter, the mountain is truly spectacular but very windy, and many visitors find it exciting to stand on the terrace and brace themselves against almost non-stop 50-mph winds!

The John Muir Way

Top of the list of destinations for a winter walk in Scotland has to be the coast-to-coast route of the John Muir Way which stretches 134 miles across the country’s heartland from the coastal village of Helensburgh in the west to the town of Dunbar in the east.

John Muir became famous not only for being a Scottish writer of distinction but also a conservationist, botanist, mountaineer, and explorer, and it was thanks to his work promoting the preservation of the natural world that the very first national parks were created.

This walking trail is named in his honour, and it allows everyone to experience some of the best parts of Scotland either on foot or on a bike, with the trail passing through countryside, coastal towns, villages, and cities. Although the entire route takes around 10 days on foot or 5 days on a bike, you can break it down into much smaller sections that can easily be completed in a single day.

Before you start, make sure you take a look at the official John Muir Way website which details the 10 distinct sections, with each section described alongside an accompanying map.

Winter sees some of the more remote sections of the trail turn into a wee bit of a quagmire, but the section near Edinburgh is perfect for a January walk. This part offers superb views across the Firth of Forth and the coastline at Cramond before heading inland to take in some of the sights of the capital, and it allows visitors to see parts of the city that are well off the usual tourist trails.

Best of all, it’s easy to take a diversion into the city centre if Scotland’s changeable winter weather suddenly closes in.

If you decide you’d like to experience more of the John Muir Way then you might like to think about walking the final stretch of the route from North Berwick to Dunbar which passes close to the John Muir Country Park .

This nature reserve is well-loved for the number of plant species that live in it, and to date, over 400 different varieties have been recorded. It’s also a prime site for birdwatchers thanks to the different habitats that include sand dunes, salt marshes, beaches, and woodland.

Cardrona Forest

Scotland is a fantastic place to explore, and it’s always worth leaving behind the usual tourist trails and getting out to see the places that the locals know about but tourists often miss. Sitting firmly in this category is Cardrona, a large forest close to the Scottish Borders town of Peebles that offers tranquil walks through the Tweed Valley forest park .

Although Cardrona is less than 2 hours away from the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh it has to be one of the most peaceful places in the country, although if you want to get active you’ll also find some really good mountain biking and horse riding trails cutting through the forest.

Three superb trails run through Cardrona. There’s the Burn Trail which offers an easy walk along the Kirk Burn (a river), The Kirkburn Trail which has great views of the surrounding Tweed Valley, and Wallace’s Trail which runs past Cardrona Tower. All walks come highly recommended and I guarantee they’ll make you fall in love with the Scottish Borders, especially if it’s a sunny day.

The entire Tweed Valley forest park is a nature lover’s paradise with a wealth of bird life flitting through the trees and shy red squirrels jumping between the branches. Red squirrels have had their numbers decimated in recent years due to the invasion of larger greys, but thankfully there are a few places in Scotland where their populations are strong, including Cardrona forest.

Over 75% of the UK’s entire red squirrel population lives in Scotland, so if you want to see them, the forests of Tweed Valley are a great place to visit.

One particularly interesting feature of the forest is the 16th-century Cardrona Tower, which, although in ruin, is home to a colony of bats, so if you don’t mind staying in the forest after dark, you can watch them on the hunt for food as soon as dusk settles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is january’s weather like in scotland.

Average temperatures: South 0 °C to 5 °C. North 0 °C to 5 °C. East -1 °C to 5 °C. West 1 °C to 6 °C. Average rainfall: South 19 days, 7 inches. North 20 days, 8 inches. East 16 days, 5 inches. West 19 days, 8 inches.

What are the sunrise and sunset times during January in Scotland?

January 1st: Sunrise 08:54. Sunset 16:03. Daylight hours 7 hours 9 minutes. January 15th: Sunrise 08:44. Sunset 16:25. Daylight hours 7 hours 41 minutes. January 31st: Sunrise 08:20. Sunset 16:57. Daylight hours 8 hours 37 minutes.

When is Burns Night in Scotland?

Burns Night is traditionally held annually on the 25th of January which was the birthdate of the Scottish poet Robert Burns who was born in 1759.

Is it dangerous to go mountain hiking in Scotland in January?

Hiking is possible as long as the appropriate cold-weather gear is worn and safety guidelines are adhered to. As an example, the average winter temperature on the Ben Nevis mountain range is 0 °C without taking wind chill into consideration.

Does it snow in Scotland in January?

Yes, it can snow in Scotland in January. The weather in Scotland is generally cool and wet, and snow is a common occurrence during the winter months.

The amount of snowfall can vary widely from year to year and from region to region, but it’s not uncommon for parts of Scotland (especially the Highlands) to receive significant snowfall during the winter months, including in January.

Google Maps of Scotland

The Best Beaches in Scotland

A Guide to the Best Castles to Visit in South Scotland

The Best Places to Photograph in Scotland

The Best Cheap Places to Visit in Scotland

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

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The 15 best places to visit in the UK in 2024

From charming seaside spots to bustling cities, we’ve got all the staycation inspo you need right here

For all the bucket list places around the world, it can be easy to forget that we actually have some pretty amazing places to explore right here on our doorstep. Sure, the British weather can have a mind of its own and train travel can leave a lot to be desired, but if you’re willing to put up with all of that, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what there is to discover.

From quaint coastal towns with trailblazing restaurants and bustling cities with an edge of their own, to gorgeous islands that feel nothing like the UK , these are the parts of the country that should hands-down be on your staycation wishlist for next year. These places have thriving food, drink and arts scenes, they’re home to exciting new openings and they have plenty of big events for you to scribble into your calendar, pronto.

Thinking of planning a holiday a little closer to home next year? By sifting through all of the hottest launches for next year and using our expert knowledge of cultural scenes around the country, Time Out’s UK team has curated the very best British destinations for you to plan a trip to in 2024. And the best part? Y ou can visit most of them easily, cheaply and without having to catch a flight. Time to get booking!

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in the UK 🏖️ The best seaside towns in the UK 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in the UK

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Where to visit in the UK in 2024

1. Bristol

Should we really be surprised that (apparently) everyone is moving to Bristol ? Its cultural scene is just as exciting as London ’s, but it’s still only a short coach journey away; it has picture-perfect streets and bustling, diverse nightlife. And i n 2024, its arts offering is only getting better. A musical adaptation of the 2006 film ‘ Starter for Ten ’ is coming to the renowned Old Vic theatre from February 29 to March 30, while DIASPORA! , a brand new festival showcasing BIPOC global ethnic majority artists – across theatre, dance, music, visual and digital arts, as well as poetry and spoken word – is launching in May. Undershed , a new immersive gallery, is on track to launch in Spring, and Boxhall – a street food, beer and events space by the same people who behind London’s Boxpark – will also open its doors.

The perfect day Start with grabbing a coffee from Clifton Coffee Roasters before pottering around Gloucester Road and perusing the many shops (it’s the largest strip of independent retailers in Europe). Then, hop on a Bristol Ferry water bus tour to see the city from the water . Finally, feast on a dinner of Spanish small plates at Bravas (or check out one of the city’s other excellent restaurants ), before heading out to rave the night away at one of the many DIY-style clubs .

Plan your trip The 2024 edition of Bristol’s newest music festival, Forwards , takes place on August 31 and September 1. 2023 headliners included Aphex Twin, Erykah Badu and Raye .

📍 The best things to do in Bristol 🍴 The best restaurants in Bristol

2. Hull

Hull became a surprising capital for the UK’s LGBTQ+ community in 2023. From Monroe’s to Unit 49 and Cherry’s – named after the late ‘Ru Paul’s Drag Race’ star Cherry Valentine – an influx of new gay bars and clubs means Hull’s new Freedom Quarter is slowly growing its ecosystem of queer-friendly spaces. As well as its thriving LGBTQ+ scene, in 2017 the East Yorkshire city was also named the city of culture. It’s got The Deep , an enormous aquarium with 3000 species, a picturesque old town which survived the city’s relentless WWII bombings, and lots of up and coming indie art galleries like Ground and Artlink . Don’t sleep on Hull.

The perfect day Get your caffeine fix at Still. by Two Gingers Coffee before having a wonder around Hull’s charming old town or pottering in the shops at Hepworth’s Arcade . After that, head to indie events space Ground to check out whatever arty happenings they have on. Finally, stop for a pint at Ye Olde White Hart before heading to one of the infamous 13-hour parties (yes, really) at Gate No. 5 .

Plan your visit Pride in Hull will take place on July 29, 2024.

📍 The best things to do in Hull

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3. Isles of Scilly

A lot of people say that the Isles of Scilly are the British version of the Caribbean – and you know what? We’d totally agree. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Cornwall is largely unspoilt, with white stretches of sandy beaches, turquoise waters and plenty of opportunities to go island hopping and dolphin spotting. But there’s more, too: head to the local museum to immerse yourself in the islanders’ deep sense of culture and tradition, sink yourself silly on local ales at seaside pubs or indulge your sense of adventure by snorkelling over the many under-the-sea shipwrecks. Bliss.

The perfect day Travel to the islands by Skybus from Land’s End – it only takes 20 minutes, and there’s a gorgeous view. Once you arrive, make your way over to St Mary’s Riding Centre to take in the stunning scenery on horse-back. If that’s not your thing, hire bikes and explore the coastal trails of St. Mary’s islands before taking a transfer boat to St. Agnes to visit the Turks Head for a hearty pub lunch made using local ingredients. Once your food goes down? It has to be time for a swim.

Plan your trip The Isle of Scilly food festival is a ten-day celebration of local provenance taking place in September, with mouth-watering events like beach BBQs and vineyard tours.

📍 The best places to visit in Cornwall

4. London

Ah, good old London . No matter how many times you’ve visited or how long you’ve lived there, you’ll always find new things to discover in the capital. There are a tonne of new restaurants to feast at, all sorts of gorgeous hotel openings and plenty of fresh cultural things to do. Most notably, in 2024, you can dance at Drumsheds , the mammoth warehouse club housed in a former IKEA, catch a blockbuster exhibition – like Yoko Ono at the Tate Modern or The World of Tim Burton at the Design Museum – and see epic new West End performances ( Mean Girls , anyone?).

The perfect day For lunch, grab a delicious loaded sandwich at Dom’s Subs on Hackney Road for (or treat yourself to a boujee meal out at Morito ), before perusing the cute independent shops on Columbia Road and gawking over the even cuter animals at Hackney City Farm . Head over to Soho for a late-afternoon pint at the iconic French House , then round off your day with a delicious pre-theatre dinner at the newly opened Forza Wine at the National Theatre , before catching a play.

Plan your trip Book tickets to see the stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s ‘ Spirited Away ’, taking place at the London Coliseum from April 30 until August 24.

📍 The best things to do in London 🍴 The best restaurants in London

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5. Belfast

The Norn Iron capital is criminally underrated. If you’re yet to discover its welcoming warmth and cultural vibrance, 2024 is the year to change that. Over the next twelve months Belfast has mega ambitions to deliver its biggest ever cultural celebration via a project dubbed ‘ Belfast 2024 ’. Set around the theme of ‘People, Place and Planet’, the whopping programme of 24 large-scale commissions and over 200 events, workshops and activities includes a collaboration with the Eden Project, a guerilla gardening scheme aimed at rewilding the peace walls in the west of the city and an immersive music showcase celebrating Belfast’s contemporary Black culture.

The perfect day Begin with a wholesome morning stroll through the Botanic Gardens , followed by a hefty brunch at Output . Then wander through the parliament buildings at Stormont and the monumental Titanic Belfast museum. In the evening, find your way to The Muddlers Club hidden within the historic back streets of the Cathedral Quarter, or if you’d rather eat in, order from cult favourite Mexican place Boojums . Round off the evening by grabbing a pint accompanied by some banging live music at the Dirty Onion .

Plan your trip The cultural celebrations kick off from March and will run through to November. Make sure to be in the city on March 17 for an ‘enhanced’ edition of St Patrick’s Day shindigs.

📍 The best things to do in Belfast

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6. St Andrews

Forgive us for including two Scottish seaside towns in this list (see: number 14), but it’s a good excuse to plan a road trip, right? A coastal gem in the Kingdom of Fife, St Andrews is home to an ancient university, three stunning beaches, botanic gardens, multiple pubs, a famous golf course and not much else. But it’s also beautiful, extremely walkable and very peaceful, and if you’re after a bit more action, it’s also close enough to Dundee to plan a day trip to the renowned V&A museum . St Andrews has also been tipped to be a hit set-jetting destination for 2024 with the town featuring heavily in the final season of ‘ The Crown ’, thanks to it to being where Prince William met Kate Middleton while at university. Fans, come this way.

The perfect day Line your stomach with a delicious fry up from Northpoint (which claims, like many places in town, to be where ‘Will met Kate’). Then, you’ll probably want to go for a lofty beach walk on West Sands, where ‘Chariots of Fire’ was filmed, before returning to town for some fresh fish and chips from Cromar’s (if the weather allows, eat them on another nearby beach: Castle Sands). In the evening, catch a local show at The Byre Theatre or sink some pints at one of the town’s many pubs: Aikman’s and Brew Co. are very good choices.

Plan your trip V isit in July: most of the students will have left for the summer and you might actually get to enjoy the beach with some sun.

📍 The essential guide to Scotland

7. Lewes

‘Like a box of toys under a great amphitheatre of chalk hills... on the whole it is set down better than any town I have seen in England’: so said William Morris about Lewes in the 1800s. The sloping Sussex town has been a favoured haunt of artsy progressives, not least Virginia Woolf, Vanessa Bell and the rest of the bohemian Bloomsbury set. In 2023, it gained a brand new cultural space in the form of Charleston in Lewes (head here in the new year to catch the ‘Bring No Clothes: Bloomsbury and Fashion’ exhibition, closing March 3). There’s more, too: as you wonder Lewes’ charming wonky streets you’ll stumble past the former home of Anne of Cleves, Lewes Castle , a hodgepodge of artisan stores and delicious foodie spots – as well as the most bonkers pub in the UK, the Lewes Arms.

The perfect day Take the brand new Sussex Art Shuttle and travel a short distance outside of town to see Charleston Farmhouse , before heading back for a veggie burger at Bun and Bean and a pastry dessert from Flint Owl Bakery . Spend the afternoon learning about the history of the castle and Lewes Priory , then browse the independent shops in The Needlemakers . Finish with a meal and a movie at Depot .

Plan your trip The stunning Glyndebourne Opera House is hosting a festival of world class opera from May 16 to August 25, while the incredible extravaganza that is Lewes Bonfire Night is taking place around November 5.

📍 The best things to do in Lewes

8. Newcastle

There’s plenty to shout about in Newcastle (and not just the nightlife, though we love that too). The city’s food scene already had a pretty good reputation, but new openings in 2023 have really seen it thrive, like natural wine and pizza spot Bawn and new brunch spot Cafeteria : a sort of posh style greasy spoon, which seem to be all the range now. Pair this with a load of great galleries and pubs, the legendary Wylam Brewery and Tyneside Cinema and seriously reasonable prices and you’ve got a cracking weekend away. Or you might just want to pack up and move there. It happens.

The perfect day Grab a coffee (with a view) at La Verne Vintage , before walking waterside and over the Quayside bridge. Head to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art and wander through whatever exhibition is on, before heading to the very top floor for fantastic views over the city. Then head to Ouseburn, Newcastle’s coolest neighbourhood, and grab a pint and a banging vegan lunch at The Ship Inn . If you’ve got an itching for more art, check out the Biscuit Factory next door. After a few more pints, hit up World Headquarters for a night on the Toon.

Plan your trip The Newcastle Fringe 2024 will run from July 18 to 29. Catch shows at the very cool Northern Stage as well as a number of pubs.

📍 The best things to do in Newcastle

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9. Falmouth

Falmouth has always been Cornwall’s cooler town. Home to Exeter and Falmouth university campuses, student life here has brought a bit of vibrancy and edge to the quiet cobbled streets – but there’s always been a glaring gap when it came to the question of nightlife. Recently, though – thanks to new music venue The Cornish Bank – its late night credentials have shot up. From Klub Nos Lowen, a cult folk music night, to up and coming indie bands, this spot is the ideal place to absorb some of the county’s best culture.

The perfect day Start with a paddle at Gyllyngvase Beach, then warm yourself up with a coffee at Gylly beach cafe . Then check out the independent boutiques and galleries on the high street. (Shout out to Mirri Damer jewellery and Wild Pony vintage.) After grabbing some grub from Harbour Lights fish and chips, head to Chain Locker for a harbourside pint before moseying on to a gig at The Cornish Bank. If you have time, pop in to Beerwolf too, a charming pub/bookshop.

Plan your visit T he annual worm charming championship (you read that right) takes place in late May every year. The Sea Shanty Festival takes place on June 14 to 16 2024, and Falmouth Week , an extravaganza of music, sailing and local culture, takes place on August 9 to 18 .

📍 The best things to do in Falmouth

10. Manchester

Manchester never fails to serve up a cultural banquet. After a huge year that saw the launch of Factory International at Aviva Studios, the rescue of grassroots gig venue, The Snug , and the long-awaited reopening of Manchester Museum , 2024 is set to be another big one. The star of the show will be the huge, innovative Co-op Live which is opening in April, backed by Bruce Springsteen and Harry Styles and already has the likes of Liam Gallagher and Oilvia Rodrigo lined up to perform. And in much-anticipated news for its food scene, L’Enclume chef Tom Barnes is opening his first solo restaurant, Skof , in the Noma district in spring.

The perfect day Swing by Idle Hands to fuel up on carbs and caffeine before perusing around the Northern Quarter’s indie shops (don’t miss Queer Lit or the Craft and Design Centre). Pick from a huge range of edible options at Mackie Mayor for lunch (or head to the Michelin-starred Where The Light Gets In , for something special) then use the new Visit Manchester Pass to check out the National Football Museum and take a craft beer tour of the city. End with a tipple and live music at YES .

Plan your trip Head up some time between October 23 and 27 to catch the Worldwide Music Expo , which is set to attract over 2,600 big guns from the global music industry.

📍 The best things to do in Manchester 🍴 The best restaurants in Manchester

11. Ramsgate

Last year it was all about Margate , but now, another neighbour has joined Kent’s roster of cosy, culture-filled seaside towns that everyone’s getting obsessed with. Enter: Ramsgate , a walkable gem with a hell of a lot of character. Check out one of its locally-run galleries and studios (including Level 11 , specialising in dog pics), and don’t miss filling up at one of its new food offerings: this year, bar/restaurant Seabird arrived on the scene , as well as new monthly pop-up Catch at the Camden Arms , serving up a delightful seafood set menu. Oh, and the world’s biggest Wetherspoons is here. You heard us.

The perfect day Pull up at Ramsgate Station and stroll towards the seafront, stopping at The Modern Boulangerie on Harbour Street for brunch and a ridiculously good cinnamon roll. Take a coffee to go and spend time checking out Ramsgate’s indie shops, from the records at Vinyl Head to the pottery, books and glass at Island Vintage . Head to the harbour and head out on a seal-spotting boat trip , before grabbing a sunset pint at the Royal Harbour Brasserie . Finally, warm up with pub grub at The Bedford Inn (top tip: you can rent a room at their brand-new hotel too).

Plan your trip Go when it’s sunny and try to catch the town’s International Film Festival in June or the Festival of Sound in August.

📍 The best things to do in Ramsgate

12. Norwich

Hugged by the marshes and woodlands of Broads National Park, Norwich brings the ancient to the contemporary — from its cobbled alleyways and two dazzling cathedrals to the modern exhibitions at the Sainsbury Centre and its Michelin-star prowess. In summer 2024, Norwich Castle (which was apparently one of Europe’s most important mediaeval fortresses) is set to reveal the results of a mighty £15m revamp, due to include redecorated rooms and the restoration of its 12th century Norman keep. As the self-proclaimed ‘City of Stories’ and England’s first UNESCO City of LIterature, you’ll be enchanted by Norwich’s tale.

The perfect day Order your morning drink of choice at Strangers Coffee then stop by the city’s 900-year old market on Gentleman’s Walk to check out the organic produce and food stalls. Save room for dessert so that you can enjoy elevenses at Figbar then take in the magnificent architecture of Norwich Cathedral and check out the curiosities hiding within the antique shops on Elm Hill. Round it all off with dinner from Grosvenor Fish Bar .

Plan your trip A c elebration of queer art and ideas, Queerfest Norwich is happening February 8 to 24.

📍 The best things to do in Norwich

13. Alnmouth

For a tranquil seaside break in 2024, the tiny fishing village of Alnmouth on the border between Scotland and England is a solid bet. Think: wild, windswept walks, pastel-coloured fisherman’s cottages, freshly-caught fish and blissful peace and quiet. Three surrounding beaches make up part of Northumberland’s 40-mile long coastal path — which happens to be a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, recently renamed ‘National Landscapes’ – and as such, there’s a delightful cluster of wildlife to look out for, including adorable puffins and grey seals.

The perfect day Sit down for an A.M. coffee and fresh kippers on toast at Bistro23 before checking out Almouth’s cluster of independent stores like Scots of Alnmouth and Jane and Harry’s. Then stop by the Ferry Hut , a bitesize museum dedicated to the ferrymen of yesteryear. Spend the afternoon adventuring along the coastal path before indulging in a well-earned dinner at The Whittling House .

Plan your trip Alnmouth Arts Festival is happening on June 15 and 16, with more than 50 designers and craftspeople exhibiting their work in venues throughout the village.

14. Ullapool

A tiny village and port around 45 miles from Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, Ullapool is well situated for walkers and cyclists to get their dose of the great outdoors: explore the nearby Corrieshalloch Falls, scramble up Stac Pollaidh mountain or to hop on a ferry to the Outer Hebrides. But there’s more to this place than just hiking boots and anoraks. Ullapool also going under something of a cultural renaissance, with Scotland’s most remote club night bringing of-the-moment electronic DJs to the area and The Seafood Shack and new 3AA Rosette restaurant The Dipping Lugger attracting foodies from far and near. The town was recently chosen as one of Time Out’s most underrated travel destinations in Europe, so get down soon.

The perfect day Wrap up warm and drive over to the foot of Stac Pollaidh mountain, with its spectacular peak of Torridonian sandstone. Reward yourself with a packed lunch on the top after a two-hour climb, before heading home and warming up in The Ferry Boat Inn where you can enjoy a slap-up dinner with some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat.

Plan your trip The next Baile/Baile club nights take place on February 3 and March 2, showcasing some of Scotland’s most exciting DJ talent.

15. Wrexham

Who’d have thought a small Welsh city would have been taken over by Hollywood celebs and become the subject of an extremely popular Disney+ documentary? Wrexham, home to the formerly flailing football club Wrexham AFC, became one of the UK’s hottest tourist destinations after A-listers Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought the club in 2020. The city is also home to St Giles’s, one of the most stunning churches in Wales. Then there’s the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – a huge 18-arched stone and cast iron structure carrying the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee – and two National Trust properties, Erddig Parkland and Chirk Castle . In 2024, the national Football Museum for Wales is also expected to open, with exhibitions on Welsh language communities, fan culture and LGBTQ+ experiences.

The perfect day Start the day at Aussi brunch spot Lot 11 . After fueling yourself, you’re obviously going to want to check out The Racecourse, the stadium that’s home to Wrexham AFC. Then you’ll need to grab a pint at The Turf , the football team’s pub of choice. For the afternoon, hop in the car for a 20 minute drive to check out the gorgeous views from the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and surrounding World Heritage Site.

Plan your trip Wrexham Feast , an annual food and drink festival, takes place in late September.

📍 The best things to do in Wrexham

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2024 travel planner: 12 of the best things to do and see in the UK this year

Top attractions from cycling, canoeing and surfing to fashion, culture and art – plus an aerial adventure on top of the Principality Stadium

Yorkshire coast on two wheels

Exploring Yorkshire’s coastline on two wheels is about to get a whole lot easier. Route YC, the organisation which promotes the Yorkshire coast, has teamed up with leading adventure cyclists to launch a series of new cycle routes in January. Ranging from nine to 260 miles, the routes are designed to help visitors of all abilities get off the beaten track on gravel, touring and road bikes.

Adventure cyclists Mark Beaumont, Markus Stitz and Jenny Graham on gravel path near sea

There’s a circular route from Scarborough, as well as several shorter day rides from the coastal towns of Whitby, Filey, Bridlington, Hornsea and Withernsea, and the North York Moors village of Grosmont. There’s also a bikepacking weekender route which starts in Whitby and a touring route which hugs the coast from the ferry terminal in Hull all the way to Staithes, north of Whitby. Route maps and accommodation details will be live on the Route YC website by 31 January

Blenheim Palace presents Icons of British Fashion, Oxfordshire

A blockbuster fashion exhibition will open at Blenheim Palace in March. Icons of British Fashion is the largest event in the palace’s 300-year history and will showcase some of Britain’s most renowned designers. Clothing, accessories, archival materials, drawings, photographs and patterns from leading lights such as Vivienne Westwood, Stella McCartney, Lulu Guinness, Bruce Oldfield and Temperley London will be on display in the state rooms alongside Blenheim’s priceless art collection. 23 March-30 June . Entry tickets to Blenheim are valid for a year and cost £38 for adults, £22 for under-16s.

Tweed Valley canoe trail

Launching in spring, the first official canoe trail in the south of Scotland will cover a tranquil 30-mile stretch of the River Tweed. Starting close to Dawyck Botanic Garden in the picturesque village of Stobo and finishing on the riverbank overlooking Sir Walter Scott’s former home Abbotsford , the route promises beautiful views of the Southern Uplands and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife such as otters, kingfishers and herons. It is designed to be paddled over two or three days and is suitable for all abilities. Trail maps, suggested itineraries and camping/accommodation information will be available online by the end of January

Distillery to open at Belfast’s Crumlin Road Gaol

A whiskey distillery will open in the 19th-century Crumlin Road Gaol in early March, following a £22 million investment. Whiskey tours, cocktail masterclasses and a tasting bar and shop will open in the former A wing of the high-security prison. Known locally as the Crum, it first opened in 1846 and took a leading role in the detainment of republican and loyalist prisoners during the Troubles. Visitors can learn about the prison’s chequered history and some of the inmates who were held here, from suffragettes to hunger strikers, on a self-guided tour. Entry from £14 adults, £7.50 children; distillery tour prices TBA

Black Country Living Museum, Dudley

The latest addition to the Black Country Living Museum ’s collection of historic buildings is a high street which recreates life in a Midlands town in the postwar era. Listen to vinyl records in a listening booth at Stanton’s Music Shop, see paper passbooks in the West Bromwich Building Society, check out the 1950s fashions on display at E. Minett’s Ladieswear and learn about the creation of the NHS. From spring, visitors will be able to explore a new industrial quarter and find out more about the working lives of Black Country people at a recreated aluminium foundry, tool makers and brickworks. And in summer, a post office, an Army & Navy Store and a replica of the Halesowen and Hasbury Co-op will open on the new high street. Adults £22.95, under-16s £11.45

T he King Charles III coastal route

The long-awaited King Charles III England Coast Path is on schedule to be fully walkable by the end of 2024. It will be the world’s longest managed coastal walking route, covering 2,700 miles and connecting communities as far apart as Bamburgh and Boscastle. More than 1,000 miles of coastal terrain have been made accessible so far, including new sections in Cumbria, Kent and Sussex, which were completed towards the end of last year. The next section to open will be from Hunstanton to Sutton Bridge in Norfolk, skirting the tidal marshes, beaches and nature reserves of the Wash estuary. It’s expected to be ready in March. New sections on the Isle of Sheppey and improvements to the existing path on the Exmoor coast will also follow in spring. The UK government website will have updates on new sections as they open

Toulouse-Lautrec in Bath

La Troupe de Mademoiselle Eglantine poster

A major new exhibition, Toulouse-Lautrec and the Masters of Montmartre , opens at Victoria Art Gallery in Bath in April. More than 30 pieces from the artist’s colourful career, including his first poster of the Moulin Rouge and the can-can dancers of La Troupe de Mademoiselle Eglantine, will be shown alongside works by other artists of the day. Steinlein’s iconic Tournée du Chat Noir, an advert for Ruinart champagne by Alphonse Mucha, and theatre posters by Jules Chéret will feature alongside work by other masters of belle époque Paris. This is the only chance to see Lautrec’s complete collection of posters in the UK before it moves to a permanent home at the Musée d’Ixelles in Belgium. 26 April-29 September , adults £10, children £3.50

Aerial adventure in home of Welsh rugby, Cardiff

A new aerial adventure will open at the home of Welsh Rugby this spring. Thrill-seekers will be able to climb to the top of the Principality Stadium in Cardiff for a bird’s eye view of the pitch and Cardiff skyline before descending via a zipwire and white-knuckle “drop”. The attraction, called Scale , is being created by urban aerial adventure expert Wire & Sky, which has worked on similar projects at Wembley, Tottenham Hotspur, the Cutty Sark and Liverpool’s Anfield. At the time of writing, tickets had not gone on sale, but fans can register interest on the website

National Gallery goes on tour

The National Gallery’s Supper at Emmaus by Caravaggio.

The National Gallery celebrates its 200th anniversary on 10 May. To mark the occasion, the gallery is lending 12 of its most iconic paintings to 12 venues across the UK . Paintings including Constable’s The Hay Wain and Monet’s The Water-Lily Pond will travel to centres from Brighton to Edinburgh, bringing a National Gallery painting to within an hour’s journey for more than half the UK population. At the Ulster Museum in Northern Ireland, visitors will be able to admire Caravaggio’s The Supper at Emmaus, while The Rokeby Venus by Velázquez will be heading north-west to the Walker Gallery in Liverpool. It will be the first time that some of the works, such as The Wilton Diptych and Botticelli’s Venus and Mars, have left the gallery since they were acquired. The paintings will all go on display on 10 May and each of the 12 venues will run complementary events, exhibitions and digital interventions to showcase its particular painting.

Back in time at Beamish, County Durham

An authentically recreated 1950s picture house at Beamish will offer visitors the chance to relive the golden age of movie-going. The cinema will be the latest addition to a “1950s Town” opened last summer at the living history museum as part of the biggest development in its history. The 50s town brings a new era to Beamish, with its meticulously recreated hairdressers, fish and chip shop and cafe, where visitors can listen to jukebox music in a vintage booth. Beamish will also be expanding its Georgian exhibits this year with an 1820s tavern serving Georgian-inspired food and drink, and a working pottery. For the first time, guests will also be able to stay overnight in original farm buildings and cottages which are being converted into self-catering accommodation. Beamish Unlimited Passes £24.95 adults, £15.45 children, £63.50 for a family of four, valid for a year

Barbie: The Exhibition, London

A 1985 Day to Night Barbie, part of the Design Museum exhibition.

If you thought Barbie had her moment in the spotlight in 2023, think again. The Design Museum in London will celebrate the doll’s 65th birthday in a new exhibition telling the story of the brand’s evolution. The museum has been granted special access to Mattel Inc’s extensive Barbie archives in California and will display dozens of rare items examining the doll’s influence on everything from fashion and furniture to architecture and vehicle design. 5 July to 23 February 2025 , ticket prices TBA

Surf’s up in Edinburgh

The Lost Shore surfing lake near Edinburgh.

Europe’s largest inland surfing destination will open near Edinburgh this autumn. The Lost Shore Surf Resort is scheduled for a September launch and will be capable of generating up to 1,000 waves an hour, suitable for beginners to pro surfers. The 160-metre surfing lake will be in a 60-acre country park, with 22 pods and lodges sleeping from two to eight, a seasonal food market showcasing chefs and street food vendors, a surf shop and a spa. The emphasis will be on accessibility, with lessons for beginners, heated changing facilities, and wetsuits and surfboards included in the cost. Visitors will also be able to try surfskating, an increasingly popular variation on skateboarding. Lost Shore is in Ratho, nine miles west of Edinburgh.

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The best holiday destinations in January

By Laura Fowler and Laura Chubb

21 best holiday destinations in January 2024

Christmas is over, the New Year’s hangover is lingering and workdays and school hours are back on. From 1 January, reality kicks in, so why not book a new year getaway and escape the January blues? Post-Christmas and pre-Valentines, it's cheap – snap up an off-peak season deal across the globe, from one of the best Caribbean islands to the sunny neighbourhoods of Sydney and LA . Here, we round up the best places to go on holiday in January 2023.

Barbados, Caribbean

Temperature in January: 29°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 8 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -4

It’s the Caribbean island’s good-time vibes that keep regulars coming. Well, that and the pirate’s bounty of bleached-white, powdery beaches. The glam west coast might be all five-star luxury, but travel slightly south and the scene quickly skews more local. Lively town Oistins’ Friday Night Fish Fry brings the community out for an open-air party, with fresh-caught fish on the barbecue and booming reggae. Or, closer still, hit St Lawrence Gap, a strip of rambunctious rum bars. On the quieter east coast, pounding Atlantic waves draw surfers: Bathsheba is the closest Barbados gets to boho, with pro boarders and tattooed artists. In January, the dawn of dry season, it’s all appealing – drenched only in a daily average nine hours of sunshine.

Sustainable travel tip: The best way to benefit the Barbados community is to leave your hotel. Give back to the community by spending tourist dollars at Oistins Fish Fry, which benefits local businesses.

Where to stay: Cobblers Cove prides itself on being quietly elegant – an intimate, stylish country-house hotel situated on a white sand beach, with 40 spacious rooms which all open on to the luscious gardens. For more, see our picks of the best hotels in Barbados .

Thailand, Asia

Temperature in January: 32°C high; 22°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT +7

Thailand is heavenly in January. Yes, it's peak season, but the mayhem of the Christmas and New Year parties are over; Bangkok is just about as pleasant as it's ever going to get, and the islands on the south-western, Andaman Coast are just lovely: Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, Koh Lanta . Over on the east side, the islands of Koh Samui, Phangan and Tao are wetter - if you're heading here, best to wait a couple of months til March ; but still, those monsoon-like rains blow in, pour themselves out, then an hour later everyone's back on the beach.

Sustainable travel tip: Thai sleeper trains are modern and comfortable, so consider an overnight rail adventure between destinations rather than internal flights. Similarly, when visiting islands, more often than not there’s a ferry option, so don’t head for the airport as a matter of course.

Where to stay: The Standard offers a peppy, high-energy experience in Bangkok’s tallest skyscraper. Families and those seeking the more serene should book into the whimsical railway-themed InterContinental Khao Yai Resort , with its charming suites all set up in vintage railway carriages, and an old-timey ticketing booth serving as a lobby. See our guide to the best hotels in Thailand for more.

Val d'Isere

Temperature in January: -1°C high; -10°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 1 hour 40 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

With New Year crowds gone and no school holidays on the horizon, January is a fine time to hit up the best ski resorts in Europe . And not only does French ski resort Val present the most reliable powder on the continent, but this St-Tropez-on-snow is only getting splashier. The spot is home to some of the best ski hotels and chalets in the region. And if Olympic downhills and Michelin-starred restaurants aren’t doing it, there are plenty more inventive ways to get your kicks. Who’s up for a circuit of BMW’s ice track?

Sustainable travel tip: Looking to offset all that Val d’Isère excess? Eurostar runs direct trains from London St Pancras to Bourg St Maurice during ski season; local buses then make the 45-minute trip from the station to Val.

Where to stay: Le Refuge de Solaise , once a cable-car station, is now a fun-loving ski hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, marking one of France’s highest places to bed down. We also love Le Yule , located right on the edge of the front de neige and the nursery slope. The rooms are decorated in minimalist Scandinavian style with natural colours, and have balconies overlooking the piste. For a private stay, seven-room Chalet Husky has a climbing wall, infinity waterfall and space for rifle shooting and archery – perhaps not so wise after a night at Dick’s Tea Bar.

Porto, Portugal

Temperature in January: 14°C high; 6°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 2 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

No doubt about it, Portugal is booming. While the country’s mild winters might not be scorching, they are quieter – and prices lower than usual, in a destination already beloved for being very affordable. Porto , Lisbon’s little sister, has undergone its own creative renewal. Once-decaying medieval streets buzz with kerbside cafés and retooled townhouses, transformed into stylish hotels by local designers. The food scene is fizzing, there’s more to Porto than sandwich shops and port wine tastings, from Michelin-starred menus to relaxed, wine-focused dining. And then there’s the terraced port vineyards of the Douro Valley, 100km inland.

Sustainable travel tip: Taking the train to Portugal is a much better idea than it might sound – and it only takes 24 hours. First, catch the Eurostar from London to Paris, then the high-speed TGV to Irun in Spain’s Basque Country, followed by the overnight Sud Express to Lisbon, which has sleeper cabins with private showers, and a cafe/bar. After a sophisticated night on the rails, there’s no shortage of direct trains to Porto. Felicidades!

Where to stay: Bijou design hotel Gran Cruz House pairs sorbet-toned rooms with a couldn’t-be-better location and a standout restaurant helmed by one of Portugal’s top chefs. On Rua das Flores, the 16th century Casa da Companhia building blends modern luxury with traditional touches, and hosts regular Port bottle ‘fire openings’ where you can learn about the city’s Port culture. See our guide to the best hotels in Porto for more.

Temperature in January: 23°C high; 8°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 11 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT -6

The coast of Mexico is everything the British winter is not: light, colour, exoticism; warm and spicy and exuberant. Parties on the beach, yoga under the trees, a dip in dappled-light cenotes. We fell for the cosmic vibes of Tulum , and the little barefoot island of Isla Holbox , off the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula. For the haciendas and smart resorts on the Riviera Maya; for colonial Mérida . And over on the west coast, sunny, surfy Sayulita . The weather on both Atlantic and Pacific coasts is wonderful in January: hot but not-too-hot, with barely any rain at all. Required holiday reading: The Lacuna , by Poisonwood Bible author Barbara Kingsolver.

Sustainable travel tip: Where Tulum’s not-so-green practices have made headlines, and the Riviera Maya’s resorts are all about opulence, Isla Holbox’s modus operandi is small-scale and local. The lack of paved roads all but mandates getting around by bicycle; the most convenient way to arrive is by 30-minute ferry from the mainland; restaurants, bars and stores are owned by islanders; and single-use plastics have been banned since 2018.

Where to stay: Near the powdery white sands of Xpu-Ha, the secluded jungle hideaway of Hotel Esencia is a reprieve from bustling resorts and hedonistic eco-hotels. Five minutes from Huanacaxtle Beach, Susurros del Corazón offers an all-inclusive experience with a boutique hotel feel. The newly-revamped Rancho Pescadero is a great choice for the eco-conscious, with an on-site solar farm and a clean-air waste incinerator for both the resort and the local area. See our guide to the best hotels in Mexico for more.

Rwanda, Africa

Temperature in January: 24°C high; 9°C low Season: First dry period Travel time from UK: 10 hours 40 minutes (indirect with Rwandair or Egyptair) Time difference: GMT +2

There are many reasons to go to Rwanda . Its vibrant Kigali exudes an air of positivity from its extraordinarily resilient people. In Akagera National Park, still off-radar on the safari scene, lion and black rhino have been reintroduced, and you’ll spot elephants, giraffes and zebras roaming the savannah – but no other safari tourists. Trek through ancient rainforests, babble with monkeys – colobus, baboon, chimpanzee. But it’s Rwanda’s mountain gorillas that are the blockbuster draw. Not even 100 people a day are permitted to trek, accompanied by trackers, into the Virunga cloud forest of Volcanoes National Park, for a close encounter with the critically endangered creatures – a moving, once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s possible any time of year – whenever you can get a coveted permit – but as the first dry period, January is one of the best months for trekking.

Sustainable travel tip : The income from carefully monitored responsible tourism funds the conservation of Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.

Where to stay: Two of Africa’s most sensational lodges are found not far from Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the gorillas: Bisate , Wilderness Safaris’ thatched, curvaceous and exquisitely designed eco-lodge and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest .

The Japanese Alps

Temperature in January: 3°C high; –5°C low Season: Winter Travel time from UK: 11 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT +9

Most tourists miss Honshu’s mountainous Nagano Prefecture, which rewards the more intrepid traveller with unique experiences in this eternally surprising land. It is home to the drama and forested beauty of the Japanese Alps; the Nakasendo Way winding through the Kiso Valley and Kiso Mountain peaks which, in January, are white with snow. In Joshinetsu National Park, the ski resort of Shiga Kogen is massive – 51 lifts and dozens of hotels – but still little-known to overseas visitors, its slopes uncluttered. Apres-ski here is all about sushi feasts and restorative bathing in the natural onsen baths… perhaps even, in Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, surrounded by scarlet-faced macaques who wallow in the steaming pools to keep warm.

Sustainable travel tip : Stays at Zenagi support Nagano’s rural communities and the restaurant uses ingredients grown by local suppliers.

Where to stay: In Nagano’s Kiso forest – where forest bathing is said to have originated – Zenagi is a 300-year-old Kominka house, its traditional architecture offset by the exquisite modern restoration and furniture locally made by craftsfolk.

Andaman Islands

Temperature in January: 29°C high; 21°C low Season: Dry and cool Travel time from UK: 9 hours 50 minutes to Chennai; 2 hours to Havelock Time difference: GMT +5.5

A castaway fantasy of white-sand cays and lagoons of tropical blue, the Andamans are the Indian Ocean archipelago on which few have set barefoot. Surfers and backpackers seeking next-level undiscovered make the 60-hour voyage by basic boat from Kolkata or Chennai, to stay in shacks along its pristine shores. In the past decade or so, more luxurious digs have been set up: primarily the Taj Exotica , in five-star splendour on Havelock island; and the more boutique Jalakara , set up by an Englishman and his wife.

Sustainable travel tip : Experiences here are all-natural: swimming, snorkelling, surfing, nature trails and bird walks.

Where to stay: As well as Taj Exotica and Jalakara, Barefoot at Havelock is a rustic delight.

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Temperature in January: 30°C high; 19°C low Season: Winter Travel time from UK: 9 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

Winter in Jamaica – when temperatures dip to a cool 30ºC by day – is a bright and balmy affair. This vibrant island dances to its own rhythms throughout January with music festivals from reggae (St Ann’s Rebel Salute) to rock’n’roll (Peter’s Players Winterfest). Jamaica’s music scene has always been world-leading, and never more so than right now. January is also one of the loveliest times to go for peak beach weather, the sea deliciously warm for swimming; and also for hiking – to waterfalls along the One Love Trail, or up through coffee plantations to the peak of the Blue Mountains.

Sustainable travel tip : Eco-forward Stush in the Bush serves delicious, homegrown plant-based Rastafari-Ital dishes – as well as gathering rainwater for the local community and generating solar power.

Where to stay: Ian Fleming’s former home GoldenEye is now one of several Jamaica boltholes owned by Island Records boss Chris Blackwell – and remains a legend. Its history is richly storied; Island Records brought Bob Marley to the world, and GoldenEye, in turn, has brought a string of musicians to the island, who have written songs in its waterside huts.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Temperature in January: 20°C high; 13°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 4 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

It’s no secret the Canary Islands offer reliable winter sun – but it may surprise that there’s another side to Lanzarote. Skip the east coast’s gaudy mega-hotels and you’ll discover a very cool Canary. Much of the built landscape owes a debt to local architect César Manrique, who designed many of the islands must-see architectural feats: Jardín de Cactus, his magical cactus amphitheatre; or the home he designed for himself, where cave-like rooms are carved into lava bubbles (now home to the Fundacíon César Manrique). Speaking of which, the island’s volcanic landscape is its own art project. Timanfaya National Park presents a ravishing patchwork of rainbow-hued earth. If climbing a volcano doesn’t do it for you, get wet: dive underwater through the art park Museo Atlántico, or surf local favourite Famara beach, a dramatic stretch to the north.

Sustainable travel tip: There’s no slow boat to Lanzarote, but lots of budget airlines fly here – and a few are genuinely attempting to reduce emissions. EasyJet , in fact, is rather progressive as carbon-gushing corporations go.

Where to stay: Finca Malvasia is a four-apartment hotel in Lanzarote's central La Geria wine region that's packed with funky touches such as volcanic-stone walls and cactus gardens. for a private stay, bed down in one of our favourite villas in Lanzarote .

Silver Lake, Los Angeles

Temperature in January: 20°C high; 10°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 11 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT -8

Now Venice has officially made the transition from edgy to upscale, where do you go in LA for more boho, less bling? Head east to Silver Lake. There might not be a beach, but the chilled neighbourhood vibe more than compensates. Houses spill down jungly hills to palm-lined boulevards jammed with vintage T-shirts and vinyl. Behold the surf shops and farmers' markets, street murals and food trucks, plus indie clubs that launched Foo Fighters and Foster The People. Think of it as an unending summer of hip, young cool – even in January. And, as with any self-respecting creative hub, it’s where food trends are born: see Trois Familia’s French-Mexican brunch, with beet-tartare tostada and churro French toast

Sustainable travel tip: LA traffic is notorious, and its subpar public transportation even more so, but you can do your bit by renting a hybrid car.

Where to stay: The Palihouse Santa Monica boutique beach lodge is in a Spanish Colonial Revival-style building, a range of suites with a home-from-home philosophy.

Temperature in January: 24°C high; 19°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 8 hours Time difference: GMT -1

A smattering of volcanic islands 350 miles off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde seems a lonely prospect at first look, out in the mid-Atlantic. But there’s a reason it’s fast become a fly-and-flop favourite: miles of uninterrupted ivory beaches, impossibly pure surf and an intriguing lunar landscape. Not to mention its consistently sunny disposition: January’s average temperature is 25˚C. And finally, there’s a lovely little eco lodge to rival the big hotels and budget guesthouses. Run entirely on renewable energy, Spinguera is a restored fishing village with its own private beach on the north coast of Boa Vista island (translation: good view). Think charming, stone-hewn villas with bright yellow shutters, fresh, white bedrooms and lantern-lit sunset suppers. You could while away every day right here. Or go island-hopping to explore more of Cape Verde’s craggy beauty: from Sal’s red deserts and salt pans to São Vicente, the heart of its colourful Afro-Portuguese culture.

Sustainable travel tip: Try exploring the islands by ferry. Some routes are more regular and reliable than others, such as São Vicente to lush and mountainous Santo Antão, and Santiago to rugged Fogo (where there’s a vineyard in a volcanic crater).

Where to stay: At Odjo d'Agua Hotel , a small, locally owned hotel with a garden, a pool, anachronistically decorated rooms (antiques and curios, fishing equipment and so on) and an open-air restaurant-bar jutting out into the sea, where you can dine as the Atlantic rollers crash past.

Montreal, Canada

Temperature in January: -4°C high; -12°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 7 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

If a rave in sub-zero temperatures sounds appealing, Montréal is for you. The city’s annual January Igloofest tempts parka-clad party people outside with a line-up of world-class EDM acts. Elsewhere, the French château architecture looks fabulous with frosting, and you can go snowshoeing up Mount Royal for excellent city views (it’s more of a hill, really, right in the middle of town). Mile End’s hipsters have been replaced by good-looking young families, but its food institutions remain: warm up with classic smoked-meat sandwiches at Schwartz’s Deli, or St-Viateur’s hot-out-the-oven, hand-rolled bagels (thinner and sweeter than New York ’s). For a comforting treat in the cold, poutine is considered a delicacy – try it at Au Pied de Cochon or Garnde Manger. If you need to come in from the cold, there’s the Underground City – a network of shops, museums and restaurants below downtown’s core.

Sustainable travel tip: In hip warehouse district Griffintown the Hôtel Alt Montréal , from Canadian-owned Groupe Germain, has been designed with sustainability in mind: think geothermal heating and energy-saving lighting.

Where to stay: Auberge du Vieux-Port , located on the riverfront in Vieux Montreal, has a restaurant and a rooftop terrace with views of the St-Lawrence River and the Old Port.

Temperature in January: 32°C high; 24°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: from 12 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

Finding a photograph-worthy beach in Panama – a compact country with two long coasts – is easy. Finding a suitably chic stay to match is more of a challenge. Maybe that’s why this gem gets overshadowed by its rowdy neighbours, Colombia and Costa Rica. But that’s all starting to change, now, thanks to the Islas Secas . On a remote, private archipelago of the same name, just 20 miles off Panama’s Pacific shore, this retreat leaves you marooned in luxury: it's home to four individually designed Casita sites and three Tented Casitas, all located on one of the islands and sleeping up to 24 guests. Expect expert-led excursions to uninhabited islands and jungles, and complete silence come nightfall. Changing gears, the Panama Jazz Festival makes January the best time to visit for a musical party. Hole up in Central America’s first W hotel , or head for the Casco Viejo . Once controlled by gangs, the capital’s old quarter is now flooded with cool new outfits revitalising crumbling colonial buildings, including romantic boutique bolthole La Concordia.

Sustainable travel tip: Billionaire conservation philanthropist Louis Bacon bought the Islas Secas archipelago on the condition that 13 of its 14 islands would remain undeveloped. The whole retreat runs on solar energy, plus all water used gets recycled. Alternatively, choose a completely untouched beach getaway: the Caribbean coast’s San Blas Islands are protected by an indigenous Panamanian tribe, the Guna. No hotels, no big-name restaurants: just simple huts and hammocks on deserted sands. Pass on flying here – you can catch a speedboat just outside Panama City.

Where to stay: Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo , the former Union Club of Panama, with its waterfront infinity pool, immersive spa program and spacious personal terraces that overlook the glittering downtown skyline. For a pretty retreat on a coffee farm in the mountain area of Boquete, Los Establos has spacious suites, great views and plenty of activities on offer.

Paddington, Sydney, Australia

Temperature in January: 27°C high; 20°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 22 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT +10

If Sydney is urban done right – laid-back, cosmopolitan and perpetually beachy – then Paddington is suburban perfection. Fashionable and well-heeled, it’s got all the buzz of a central district, but with the charm of a village. Colourful Victorian terrace rows flaunting wrought-iron balconies could be Notting Hill. Main promenade Oxford Street bustles with cafés, pubs and boutiques, while back alleys are home to cool galleries, design studios and cute bars. Nicky Zimmermann started out selling her designs at Paddington’s famous Saturday markets; find her spacious store on Glenmore Road. Or join the 'Paddo' foodies at Fred’s, where chef Danielle Alvarez’s kitchen cooks farm-to-table comfort food. January is quintessential Sydney summer, with balmy temperatures, and the Sydney Festival packing the city with music and art.

Sustainable travel tip: Though Qantas conducted a successful nonstop London to Sydney research flight in late 2019 – clocking in at 19 hours and 19 minutes – it isn’t yet commercially available. Which means getting to Oz still entails a carbon-heavy indirect route. But you can choose to eat and shop sustainably while you’re there. Sydney, in fact, offers a lot of innovative ways to leave a lighter footprint, from Paddington’s zero-waste fashion boutique EkoLuv, to 'rescued food' market Oz Harvest, and sustainable seafood restaurant Love Fish, in the waterfront Barangaroo development, designed to be Australia’s first carbon-neutral precinct.

Where to stay: The Dive Hotel , a groovy family-run guesthouse in Coogee, is about 8km southeast of central Sydney. A cursory glance at the crisp cotton sheets, polished floorboards and blue-tiled bathrooms reveals that this hotel doesn't live up (or down) to its name. Over in Surry Hills, Ace Hotel pays homage to the area’s creative roots with a diverse selection of music, talks, workshops and Pride parties, including a First Nations’ artist-in-residence program showcasing works from Aboriginal and other boundary-pushing artists .

Nicaragua, Central America

Temperature in January: 30°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: GMT -6

Warning: a youthful wanderlust may return when you read this feature about Nicaragua . Quite possibly the Central American country that has it all: tropical rainforests and untouched beaches, fringed with palms, distant cloud-capped volcanoes, and recently some extraordinarily special eco-lodges (see our sustainable travel tip). January has the double blessing of being the month with the best temperatures everywhere, and also the least rainfall (barely any at all) on Nicaragua's Pacific Coast.

Sustainable travel tip: Half the appeal of going to Nicaragua is losing yourself in the wild, and there are plenty of smart yet eco ways to do it. On the coast, Totoco Eco-Lodge is made up of private casitas, a pool and bougainvillaea-filled gardens but also has compost loos and works with solar power and recycled water; even your morning coffee is sourced from a neighbouring finca. Jungle-clad Jicaro Island Lodge is built from reclaimed mahogany and cedar wood, while idyllic seaside farmhouse Morgan’s Rock grows all its own food.

Where to stay: Los Patios Hotel , a five-bedroom gem with an indoor-outdoor approach to living, with scrubbed, Scandi-style interiors and open-air spaces designed for chilling out.

The coast of Brazil, South America

Temperature in January: 30°C high; 24°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 12 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT -3

Worth splurging all your annual leave in January for. Spend your New Year's Eve in Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo and then stay on for a couple more weeks and head up the coast to any number of preposterously gorgeous, barefoot-n-bikini-chic beach havens. So many thousands of miles of empty, golden sand, and beautiful people drinking caipirinhas at the coolest beach parties. The kind of places that really get our travel clichés rolling. Trancoso , in Bahia, is the original and still one of the best. Surfy Itacaré, the no-car islands of Boipeba and Tinharé. Or Sao Luís and Jericoacoara, on the wild and stunning north-east coast.

Sustainable travel tip: Carbon emissions in the Amazon forest have rocketed in recent years due to a lack of enforcement of environmental protection policies. As well as a devastating increase in deforestation in the world's largest rainforest, uncontrolled wildfires have ravaged one of the most climate-important carbon sinks in a region of rich biological and cultural diversity. Give financial support by booking nature-based activities through Indigenous-owned businesses which support the forest folk on the frontlines. To reduce your own carbon footprint, choose a direct flight route, since it’s the taking off and landing parts that burn the most fossil fuels. Choosing an energy-efficient low-cost carrier also means less kerosene combusted per passenger – consider Norwegian Air, for example, from London Gatwick to Rio.

Where to stay: Uxua Casa Hotel & Spa . A ramshackle façade disguises this utterly fabulous hotel. Ten beautiful houses are set among high-growing gardens. Bathrooms have living walls of ferns, orchids and jasmine, and there's a spa and a pool lined with green aventurine stones.

Belize, Central America

Temperature in January: 28°C high; 20°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 16 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT -6

It is hot and humid and it rains a lot in Belize, beset as it is by tropical storms and hurricanes. But don't let that put you off. It is the perfect Caribbean escape for those who like it rough and palm-fringed around the edges, with tropical jungly highlands, Mayan ruins and the most astoundingly beautiful beaches, just a handful of hippies and beach bums to share them with. January and February are the best months, only pleasantly hot and not too wet.

Sustainable travel tip: Those who sign up to a five-day diving trip with Much Better Adventures can be part of the conservation effort to protect the Belize Barrier Reef, spearing invasive lionfish, training in conservation work and helping with research.

Where to stay: Itz’ana , a hotel with a beautiful rattan- and plant-decorated restaurant and a bar with a great pool.

South Africa

Temperature in January: 26°C high; 16°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 10 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +2

So, so many reasons to go, but briefly: amazing food and wine , beaches, hotels. Sensational scenery, from the Garden Route and Western Cape to the Little Karoo . Completely thrilling wildlife encounters on safari, staying at the most incredible lodges; or along the coastline, in knock-out villas . January is one of the best months for all those things. Wine can be drunk all year round. And because it's in the same time zone, you don't even get jet lag once you're home again. Shame we can't say the same about hangovers.

Sustainable travel tip: When choosing a safari, make sure your money is poured back into supporting the park. The likes of Kruger and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, where rhino poaching is rife, need these funds for anti-poaching schemes.

Where to stay: At Silo Hotel , the best hotel in Cape Town for eclectic design and wraparound views. Its compact footprint packs a punch and includes the best rooftop bar and pool in the city.

Bruges, Belgium

Temperature in January: 6°C high; 2°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 1 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

For snow, beer and chips. The beautiful little Belgian city is one of those rare places that is just as enticing in the bleak midwinter as in summer: pretty in the snow, 'beautiful f**king fairytale stuff', to quote the film In Bruges (which is all the research you need). And the snow is an excellent excuse for holing up somewhere, because this city also has some of the most inviting reasons to stay indoors: interesting interiors, welcoming taverns full of good cheer and much Belgian beer, antiques and junk shops to poke around, gorgeous old guesthouses on the canals, candlelit bars and restaurants, moules-frites and cream-and-kirsch-laden puddings. A long weekend is enough time to see everything and put on a stone in weight.

Sustainable travel tip: Our friends in the north have an advantage when it comes to getting to Bruges sustainably – the overnight ferry from Hull. The good news for southerners: the Eurostar travels direct from London to Brussels in just two hours, and from Brussels there are trains to Bruges every 30 minutes that take just over an hour.

Where to stay: Number 11 , three 17th-century gable houses containing four wooden-floored bedrooms which combine antique and contemporary furniture, tactile fabrics, interesting prints and fresh flowers. Go for the deluxe suite, a ground-floor apartment with its own entrance, Champagne-stocked fridge and a bathtub for two.

Rajasthan, India

Temperature in January: 24°C high; 8°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 14 hours 25 minutes Time difference: GMT +5.30

India's state of princes is spectacular in January. It's pleasantly warm, the holiday crowds have vanished and you can dance through its palaces as if on your own private Bollywood set. Don't miss the jewels in its crown - pastel-hued Jaipur , turquoise-speckled Jodhpur and romantically golden Udaipur - but leave room in your itinerary for a few forgotten treasures : serene Jal Mahal or the lost city of Bhangarh. January also provides the perfect weather for an Arabian Nights-style safari in Jaisalmer, where you can traverse the desert on the back of a camel and sleep under the stars.

Sustainable travel tip: Rajasthan’s train network is excellent and largely runs on time. But reserve well in advance to secure the more comfortable cabin classes – 1AC and 2AC provide bunks with privacy curtains, towels and bedding – because they get snapped up fast. You can book through the Indian Railways site, which requires a frustrating registration process but is doable if you’re the patient type, or else use the quick and easy online agency 12go.asia .

Where to stay: Lakshaman Sagar was originally constructed in the 19th-century as a hunting lodge, and has since been converted into a luxury getaway set over 32 acres of land in Raipur. The resort features 12 villas, private dining and lounging spaces, a spa, and swimming pool.

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Where is hot in January? Best holiday destinations for winter sun

Where to go to beat the post-christmas blues, article bookmarked.

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Post-Christmas, there’s always something far less jolly waiting on the other side of the unwrapped presents – the depths of British winter.

But while the January blues are on the horizon for some, those in the know are aware that the beginning of a new year can be the best time to jet off in search of winter sun .

The southern side of the world is at the height of summer in January, with destinations like Melbourne and Zanzibar offering warm city breaks or sun-drenched beach holidays.

Cities such as Buenos Aires and Ho Chi Minh provide some South American summer flair and southeast Asian character respectively, while island favourites like Barbados and Tenerife remain the go-to for a sunny fly-and-flop holiday with just the right amount of things to see and do.

Half of the world is basking in the high 20s as we hide away in sub-zeros, so we’ve narrowed down some of the best destinations for a warm January trip.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Average temperature in January: 25C
Hours of sunshine per day: 9

Known as the ‘Paris of South America’, Buenos Aires is an eclectic capital city that still houses remnants of its country’s often complicated, sometimes sobering history. Architecturally, it is far more similar to a European city than a South American one, a characteristic seen in buildings like the Art Deco Metropolitan Theatre or the Beaux-Arts Kirchener Cultural Centre.

Culturally however, Buenos Aires is the centre of the vibrant, energetic Argentinian way of life. By day, the streets of districts like Palermo, Almagro and San Telmo hum with the chaotic activity of eager tourists, local football fans and alfresco cafe terraces, while at night the equally frenzied nightlife is on show through the Latin music blasted out of bar speakers and the proliferation of intense tango shows.

Tenerife, Spain

Average temperature in January: 19C
Hours of sunshine per day: 6

The warmest destination in Europe provides just the right amount of winter sun, with weather that will allow entire days on the beach while rarely getting too warm – average highs will be around 20C. Head to the southern coastal areas like Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas for a fly-and-flop holiday, where dozens of resorts cater to different types of holidaymaker while offering activities like watersports, snorkelling and scuba diving.

Alternatively, choose somewhere closer to Santa Cruz, the island capital, to explore the best of the island’s nature. The northern coast contains several striking black beaches, as well as the impressive artificial beach at Teresitas, while Mount Teide National Park is a land of rugged red terrain and scenic hiking trails that also contains the highest peak in the country.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Average temperature in January: 28C
Hours of sunshine per day: 8

That an island just 53 miles long can compete with Mount Kilimanjaro to be the jewel of Tanzania’s natural landscape is testament to Zanzibar’s natural beauty. This archipelago lies jut two hours from Dar es Salaam by ferry, and offers visitors from the mainland a host of pristine, paradise-like beaches, the waters of which are home to groups of dolphins and shoals of fish that live among the colourful coral reefs.

As well as exotic relaxation and world-class snorkelling, this Indian Ocean destination offers characterful towns, spice plantations and the dense, swamp-like Jozani-Chwaka National Park, where plenty of exotic animals such as red colobus monkeys live. The main islands are Pemba and Unguja, home to the island capital and its Unesco-listed Stone Town.

Average temperature in January: 20C

The UAE’s most well-known city has become a glitzy desert metropolis since the discovery of its oil reserves in 1966. It now contains a variety of modern sights – from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, to the enormous Dubai Mall or impressive built-up areas like the Marina – and extensive heritage districts such as Dubai Creek and the historic Al Fahidi neighbourhood, alongside a series of beautiful souks .

Highs in January will peak at around 24C, meaning that beach areas like Jumeirah, JBR or Kite Beach can all be enjoyed during the day without experiencing the summer’s sweltering temperatures. The surrounding desert is worth exploring too, with activities like dune buggying and camping in traditional Bedouin campsites popular among tourists.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Average temperature in January: 27C

Vietnam’s second city sits in the southern end of the country, around 1,000 miles directly south of the capital, Hanoi. Being the economic heart of the country, it has become a sprawling metropolis that is known for its lively and often hectic way of life, enticing visitors with the promise of seeing a city that combines the best bits of Vietnam’s past and present.

Whether you tour yourself on a scooter or are sampling Vietnamese delights at a street food market, the buzz of activity – and likely traffic – is palpable throughout the city. The Chinese Quarter and District 1 – where many of the main sights, such as the Opera House and Notre Dame cathedral, are located – are testament to the influence of their Asian neighbours and the colonial French period, with Dong Khoi street the city’s main thoroughfare and Bui Vien a popular area for tourists and backpackers. Attractions include the Ho Chi Minh museum, the Cao Dai Great Temple and Cold War-era Cu Chi tunnels; it is best to explore over a couple of days seeing as highs can reach 32C.

Melbourne, Australia

Average temperature in January: 21C
Hours of sunshine per day: 10

Australia’s second-largest city may be difficult to get to for Brits, but a combination of excellent January weather – you can expect highs of around 27C – and the fusion of different characteristics makes this southern city a must-visit. From sports venues and restaurants to nightlife and art galleries, Melbourne is home to some of Australia’s highlights , including the city’s Cricket Ground, the National Gallery and the region-dedicated Melbourne Museum. The Australian Open is also held here every January.

Consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities, Melbourne is underpinned by a somewhat European atmosphere, visible throughout areas like its Central Business District and the beachfront of St Kilda, with the Royal Botanic Gardens also offering a dose of UK-related history. It’s brimming with other subtle highlights, from the array of hidden bars and food spots to amazing outdoor and indoor art and a series of impressive architectural highlights, such as the towering skyscrapers that define its skyline and historic buildings like Flinders Street station.

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The best places to visit in January 2024

Nov 17, 2023 • 5 min read

Do you know when you want to travel but just can’t decide where? We’re here to break down the best places to go in each month of the year so you can find the perfect travel experience for you.

As we look forward to 2024, 366 days of epic adventures, cultural experiences, foodie forays and wondrous wildlife encounters stretch out before us. But it can be hard to know exactly where to kickstart the year of travel.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration or information, Lonely Planet has done the legwork for you, answering the travelers' perennial question: where to go when ? If you want to start the year right, these are some of the top passport-fillers for January to inspire your travels or add to your bucket list.

Where are the best places to visit in January for wildlife and nature?

A collage picturing penguins in Antarctica, gorillas in Uganda and monkeys in Japan.

Why now? Bask in near permanent daylight in this enormous white wilderness at the end of the world.

At the end of the world in Antarctica temperatures "soar" to freezing point (or a little above) and near-permanent daylight means endless, warm days (well, it’s all relative) for catching sight of the sprawling penguin colonies with their newly-hatched chicks, seal pups and whales as well as sailing between gargantuan icebergs.

Why now? Track the world’s biggest primates in the dry(ish) season.

Perhaps a thousand or so endangered mountain gorillas survive worldwide, of which nearly half roam the dense forests of Uganda ’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park . It’s an experience you’ll need to earn, tackling steep, muddy trails at altitudes up to 3000m (9483ft). But if you snag one of the limited permits available for each of the park’s 19 habituated families, the rewards are luminous.

Chūbu, Japan

Why now? Discover a winter wonderland of steaming hot springs, traditional villages and snow sports.

Winter’s a magical time to explore the historic settlements of Japan 's central Honshu region, when snow dusts temples, castles and traditional wooden houses. Outside of the ski resorts, crowds thin after the late-December holidays and before cherry-blossom season. In the Japanese Alps, “snow monkeys” (Japanese macaques) soak in hot springs near Yudanaka.

Where are the best places to visit in January for food and culture?

A collage shows Ligurian pesto, tacos in Austin, and fireworks in Sydney.

Sydney, Australia

Why now: For endless cultural experiences in the heat of the summer.

For an alternative to the seasonal celebrations, head to Australia’s largest city for the Sydney Festival, an eclectic three-week showcase of burlesque acts, circus and dance performances, art installations and family activities.

Liguria, Italy

Why now? Tramp snowy paths and munch fabulous food in the quietest season.

In winter in the Ligurian Alps, wonderfully crisp air and snowy forest trails lure snowshoers to Aveto and Antola natural regional parks and yet-more-rugged Beigua Geopark, where snowshoe hire is available and marked circular trails offer sea views. All are within touching distance of regional capital Genoa , deliciously quiet in January yet as tasty as ever with regional delicacies.

Austin, Texas, USA

Why now? Forage and feast from food trucks in the mild Texas January.

Long famed for its barbecue and Tex-Mex, today there’s a world of cuisines to discover in Austin , from American regional classics – Philly cheesesteaks, Cajun jambalaya, fried chicken – to dishes from all corners of the globe: pick up West African jollof rice, Syrian shawarma, Venezuelan arepas, and Thai Tom Kha soup. Mild January, when temperatures hover at around 15°C (59°F), brings fine weather for alfresco eating.

Where are the best places to visit in January for adventure?

A collage shows a tent in winter, a man surfing and a woman in a car.

Canary Islands

Why now? Escape the winter with a European island break.

Escape the Northern Hemisphere’s winter climes with a surf break under the sunny skies of the Canary Islands . Kitesurfers and windsurfers are also spoilt for wave-riding hotspots; and land-lovers can simply kick back on the golden shores or hike or cycle one of the region's otherworldly volcanic landscapes.

Arizona and Utah, USA

Why now? Snap snow-dusted canyons, buttes and mesas free from crowds.

The red-rock ravines and outcrops of the region straddling the Utah and Arizona borders look even more delectable with a topping of snow – and in January you’ll share these wonders with far fewer people. Make no mistake, you’ll need to wrap up warm: temperatures dip well below freezing. But don the right clothes and boots (better still, snowshoes), and you’ll discover dramatic landscapes made even more magical in the absence of crowds.

South Island, New Zealand

Why now? To take an epic summer road trip in January.

Over in New Zealand , lap up some breathtaking scenery on a road trip through some of the South Island ’s most iconic coastal landscapes. The long summer days will give you plenty of time to explore.

Where are the best places to visit in January for relaxation?

A collage shows a boat in Thailand, a woman on a boat in Kerala, a beach in Anguilla and a thermal bath in Hungary.

Budapest, Hungary

Why now? To dip into warm waters to escape the European chill.

When the climate turns cold in the Northern Hemisphere, Budapest ’s hot springs and thermal baths are a great way to escape the chill and give yourself some much needed TLC in one fell swoop.

Why now? Chill in a quieter corner of the Caribbean.

Few travelers heading to the Caribbean find their way to long, skinny little Anguilla , which remains determinedly low-key and relatively undeveloped. But it boasts all the ingredients of the Caribbean dream: friendly folk, an uplifting reggae soundtrack and some of the region’s most beautiful palm-fringed beaches, notably lively Shoal Bay on the north coast and sleepier Rendezvous Bay in the south.

Kerala, India

Why now? Find your inner glow on a winter sun and yoga break in “God’s own country.”

Over the past couple of decades, the beaches of Varkala and Kovalam have morphed from the peaceful preserves of fishermen and Hindu devotees into backpacker hangouts and on into full blown resorts studded with exclusive hotels. But with serene stretches of sand still to be found here and there in Kerala , you can take your pick of the trance parties, hot hotels and restful homestays and yoga retreats.

Southern Thailand

Why now? Find peaceful beaches and superb snorkeling and diving in the dry season.

Phuket, Krabi and Ko Phi-Phi have long been popular sun-sea-sand destinations, particularly during the European winter. Head further south, though, to find lesser-known corners. The Trang Islands – Ko Kradan and craggy Ko Muk – have escaped large-scale development, despite their gleaming beaches, pellucid waters and the latter’s beautiful Tham Morakot (Emerald Cave). Keep going to Tarutao National Marine Park, an archipelago of 51 islands just north of the Malay border.

This article was first published November 2019 and updated November 2023

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20 magical places to visit in England

Posted: January 9, 2024 | Last updated: January 9, 2024

<p>Located near the River Cam, <a href="https://www.kings.cam.ac.uk/chapel" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">King’s College Chapel</a> is one destination you won’t want to miss if you’re passing through the university town of Cambridge. Take in one of the country’s most beautiful historic buildings and listen to the choir sing before you visit some or all of the 30 other colleges that are part of this esteemed university.</p>

Durdle Door, Dorset

Located on the Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door is a unique rock formation in the county of Dorset. Created by erosion and the power of the waves, this idyllic location is nothing like what typically comes to mind when we think of England, and it’s a magical place for anyone who loves nature.

<p>Also located in the county of Dorset, <a href="https://jurassiccoast.org/visit/attractions/old-harry-rocks/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Old Harry Rocks</a> is another breathtaking area you won’t want to miss. Its huge limestone rocks extend into the English Channel and are as impressive to see on land as they are from the sea in a kayak. A number of boat trips are also available to take you around the attractions of the Jurassic Coast.</p>

Old Harry Rocks, Dorset

Also located in the county of Dorset, Old Harry Rocks is another breathtaking area you won’t want to miss. Its huge limestone rocks extend into the English Channel and are as impressive to see on land as they are from the sea in a kayak. A number of boat trips are also available to take you around the attractions of the Jurassic Coast.

<p>The <a href="https://visitbath.co.uk/inspire-me/literary-bath/jane-austen-bath" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">city of Bath</a> is aptly named, since it started out as a thermal spa more than 2,000 years ago. It’s home to many relics from centuries past as well as many modern thermal baths, including the Thermae Bath Spa. It may be small, but Bath is considered one of the prettiest cities in England, and its quaint streets and Georgian architecture will make you feel like you’re in a <a href="https://janeausten.co.uk" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jane Austen</a> novel.</p>

Bath, Somerset

The city of Bath is aptly named, since it started out as a thermal spa more than 2,000 years ago. It’s home to many relics from centuries past as well as many modern thermal baths, including the Thermae Bath Spa. It may be small, but Bath is considered one of the prettiest cities in England, and its quaint streets and Georgian architecture will make you feel like you’re in a Jane Austen novel.

<p>Cheese lovers will probably be tempted to stop by the village of Cheddar, where cheddar cheese originated, for some gourmet tastings. If you do go there, don’t forget to visit <a href="https://www.cheddargorge.co.uk/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cheddar Gorge</a>. At close to 140 metres deep, it’s the largest gorge in the country! It harbours several underground caves and a caving centre where Britain’s oldest human skeleton was discovered.</p>

Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

Cheese lovers will probably be tempted to stop by the village of Cheddar, where cheddar cheese originated, for some gourmet tastings. If you do go there, don’t forget to visit Cheddar Gorge . At close to 140 metres deep, it’s the largest gorge in the country! It harbours several underground caves and a caving centre where Britain’s oldest human skeleton was discovered.

<p>Well known for harbouring some of the greenest scenery in England, <a href="https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lake District National Park</a> is located in the northeast of the country and covers an area of 2,362 square kilometres (912 square miles). With its lush hills and sparkling lakes, this region is guaranteed to make any nature lover’s heart dance. Bibliophiles will also be happy to learn that English author Beatrix Potter helped lead efforts to preserve this magical area.</p>

Lake District, Cumbria

Well known for harbouring some of the greenest scenery in England, Lake District National Park is located in the northeast of the country and covers an area of 2,362 square kilometres (912 square miles). With its lush hills and sparkling lakes, this region is guaranteed to make any nature lover’s heart dance. Bibliophiles will also be happy to learn that English author Beatrix Potter helped lead efforts to preserve this magical area.

<p>The beautiful and pristine cliffs of <a href="https://www.visitsoutheastengland.com/things-to-do/botany-bay-p357071" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Botany Bay</a> are nestled in the county of Kent, facing the North Sea. It’s the perfect place to explore the sea bed at low tide. You can also relax on its beautiful beach, swim, explore the area by kayak, and even find fossils. Located in the heart of the Broadstairs resort, it’s the northernmost of the region’s seven bays.</p>

Botany Bay, Kent

The beautiful and pristine cliffs of Botany Bay are nestled in the county of Kent, facing the North Sea. It’s the perfect place to explore the sea bed at low tide. You can also relax on its beautiful beach, swim, explore the area by kayak, and even find fossils. Located in the heart of the Broadstairs resort, it’s the northernmost of the region’s seven bays.

<p>Considered one of the most beautiful castles in England, <a href="https://www.visitbritainshop.com/ca/en/leeds-castle" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leeds Castle</a> started out as a fortress during the Norman Conquest before being turned into a royal residence. Its history is also marked by the passage of several influential women, including the queens Eleanor of Castile and Catherine of Aragon, as well as Lady Olive Baillie, an Anglo-American heiress who revitalized the residence in the 1930s.</p>

Leeds Castle, Kent

Considered one of the most beautiful castles in England, Leeds Castle started out as a fortress during the Norman Conquest before being turned into a royal residence. Its history is also marked by the passage of several influential women, including the queens Eleanor of Castile and Catherine of Aragon, as well as Lady Olive Baillie, an Anglo-American heiress who revitalized the residence in the 1930s.

<p>The <a href="https://www.cotswolds.com" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cotswolds</a> villages look like something straight out of an Agatha Christie novel. And if you want to be instantly transported to another era, Castle Combe is one area you won’t want to miss. Its bucolic houses and picturesque pastoral streets make it the ideal place to take it easy and stop time.</p>

Castle Combe, Cotswolds, Wiltshire

The Cotswolds villages look like something straight out of an Agatha Christie novel. And if you want to be instantly transported to another era, Castle Combe is one area you won’t want to miss. Its bucolic houses and picturesque pastoral streets make it the ideal place to take it easy and stop time.

<p>One of the oldest World Heritage Sites on the planet, <a href="https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stonehenge/things-to-do/solstice/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stonehenge</a> has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 4,500 years. This circle of mythical menhirs is the stuff of legend. It attracts major crowds every year, especially during the summer solstice, when the sun rises directly in the centre of the monument.</p>

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

One of the oldest World Heritage Sites on the planet, Stonehenge has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 4,500 years. This circle of mythical menhirs is the stuff of legend. It attracts major crowds every year, especially during the summer solstice, when the sun rises directly in the centre of the monument.

<p>This <a href="https://www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">beautiful island</a> connected to the town of Marazion also houses an old castle that has been the home of the St Aubyn family since the 1600s. At low tide, you can walk across its stone causeway to visit the castle and explore its military and historical memorabilia and family artifacts.</p>

St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall

This beautiful island connected to the town of Marazion also houses an old castle that has been the home of the St Aubyn family since the 1600s. At low tide, you can walk across its stone causeway to visit the castle and explore its military and historical memorabilia and family artifacts.

King’s College Chapel, Cambridge

Located near the River Cam, King’s College Chapel is one destination you won’t want to miss if you’re passing through the university town of Cambridge. Take in one of the country’s most beautiful historic buildings and listen to the choir sing before you visit some or all of the 30 other colleges that are part of this esteemed university.

<p>Cambridge’s main rival, <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford University</a>, boasts more than 38 striking colleges filled with romantic libraries on a historic campus. Considered one of the best universities in the world, it’s also the oldest English-language university, with evidence of teaching in some form dating as far back as 1096. Its incredible scenery was also frequently used as a <a href="https://www.experienceoxfordshire.org/oxford-harry-potter/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">backdrop</a> for the Harry Potter movies.</p>

University of Oxford, Oxfordshire

Cambridge’s main rival, Oxford University , boasts more than 38 striking colleges filled with romantic libraries on a historic campus. Considered one of the best universities in the world, it’s also the oldest English-language university, with evidence of teaching in some form dating as far back as 1096. Its incredible scenery was also frequently used as a backdrop for the Harry Potter movies.

<p>Founded in the 11th century by Roger de Montgomery, <a href="https://www.arundelcastle.org/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arundel Castle</a> was almost completely rebuilt in the late 19th century. Thanks to its incredible Gothic architecture, it is considered one of the most beautiful works of the Victorian era. If you visit Arundel Castle, you’ll also get to see an impressive collection of artworks and take a stroll through its beautiful gardens, where you can catch medieval re-enactments during the summer.</p>

Arundel Castle, West Sussex

Founded in the 11th century by Roger de Montgomery, Arundel Castle was almost completely rebuilt in the late 19th century. Thanks to its incredible Gothic architecture, it is considered one of the most beautiful works of the Victorian era. If you visit Arundel Castle, you’ll also get to see an impressive collection of artworks and take a stroll through its beautiful gardens, where you can catch medieval re-enactments during the summer.

<p>Thanks to its well-preserved medieval quarter, the university town of <a href="https://www.visitbritain.com/ca/en/england/southeast/canterbury" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Canterbury</a> is a perfect destination for tourists. It houses the ruins of Canterbury Castle, St. Augustine’s Abbey, and a gorgeous cathedral that’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also where King Henry IV is buried and where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in the 12th century.</p>

Medieval quarter of Canterbury, Kent

Thanks to its well-preserved medieval quarter, the university town of Canterbury is a perfect destination for tourists. It houses the ruins of Canterbury Castle, St. Augustine’s Abbey, and a gorgeous cathedral that’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also where King Henry IV is buried and where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in the 12th century.

<p>Although Brighton is popular for its waterfront and fun attractions, you’ll also want to visit the <a href="https://brightonmuseums.org.uk/visit/royal-pavilion-garden/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Pavilion</a>, a building inspired by a blend of Indian, Mughal, Chinese, and European architecture. Even though it diverges from other buildings we’re accustomed to seeing in England, you can still enjoy a cup of traditional afternoon tea in the tearoom.</p>

Royal Pavilion, Brighton, East Sussex

Although Brighton is popular for its waterfront and fun attractions, you’ll also want to visit the Royal Pavilion , a building inspired by a blend of Indian, Mughal, Chinese, and European architecture. Even though it diverges from other buildings we’re accustomed to seeing in England, you can still enjoy a cup of traditional afternoon tea in the tearoom.

<p>Off the coast of Devon, <a href="https://www.landmarktrust.org.uk/lundyisland/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lundy Island</a> is where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic Ocean. Once occupied by pirates, the island is now owned by the National Trust and is rich in flora and fauna. Among other wildlife, it’s populated by many adorable puffins.</p>

Lundy Island, Devon

Off the coast of Devon, Lundy Island is where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic Ocean. Once occupied by pirates, the island is now owned by the National Trust and is rich in flora and fauna. Among other wildlife, it’s populated by many adorable puffins.

<p>You can’t go to London without stopping by the <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural History Museum</a>. In addition to being one of the world’s most popular museums, it’s also a leading science research centre. It’s a great place to learn all about the planet’s biodiversity and is brimming with mind-blowing exhibits such as the <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/news/2017/july/museum-unveils-hope-the-blue-whale-skeleton.html" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">enormous blue whale skeleton</a> that’s suspended in Hintze Hall.</p>

Natural History Museum, London

You can’t go to London without stopping by the Natural History Museum . In addition to being one of the world’s most popular museums, it’s also a leading science research centre. It’s a great place to learn all about the planet’s biodiversity and is brimming with mind-blowing exhibits such as the enormous blue whale skeleton that’s suspended in Hintze Hall.

<p>Bordering hip Portobello Road, <a href="https://www.timeout.com/london/things-to-do/notting-hill-area-guide" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Notting Hill</a> is one of London’s most charming districts and is a lovely area to walk around. In addition to its distinguished colourful houses, it’s filled with cozy cafés, sophisticated shops, and inspiring bookstores (much like the one in the movie named after the area).</p>

Notting Hill, London

Bordering hip Portobello Road, Notting Hill is one of London’s most charming districts and is a lovely area to walk around. In addition to its distinguished colourful houses, it’s filled with cozy cafés, sophisticated shops, and inspiring bookstores (much like the one in the movie named after the area).

<p>The setting for every coronation since 1066, <a href="https://www.westminster-abbey.org/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Westminster Abbey</a> is also the final resting place of some of England’s most revered kings and queens as well as more than 3,000 Britons who’ve had an impact on the country, including Sir Isaac Newton, Elizabeth I, Charles Dickens, and Stephen Hawking.</p>

Westminster Abbey, London

The setting for every coronation since 1066, Westminster Abbey is also the final resting place of some of England’s most revered kings and queens as well as more than 3,000 Britons who’ve had an impact on the country, including Sir Isaac Newton, Elizabeth I, Charles Dickens, and Stephen Hawking.

<p><a href="https://www.parliament.uk/about/living-heritage/building/palace/big-ben/facts-figures/" class="atom_link atom_valid" rel="noreferrer noopener">Big Ben</a> is the most famous clock in the world, and after many years of renovations, we can now admire it in all its glory. Sounding across the streets of London since 1859, the bell inside the Elizabeth Tower weighs more than 13 tons.</p>

Big Ben, London

Big Ben is the most famous clock in the world, and after many years of renovations, we can now admire it in all its glory. Sounding across the streets of London since 1859, the bell inside the Elizabeth Tower weighs more than 13 tons.

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Best places to go in January for sun - infographic

Where to go in January for sun

Kirsten Henton

Start your new year strong with a warming winter sun escape in January . If this sounds like your kind of resolution, let us help you decide where to go with our bespoke pick of the top 10 destinations for every interest.

From richly-scented city breaks in fascinating and historic urban centres to sun-drenched coastlines with swimming pools, sun loungers and all the cocktails you could wish for, our eclectic list of places to go in January is sure to please.

Take your pick from our selection of the top 10 destinations for winter sun in January based on different interests, distances and types of weather.

Top 10 sunny holiday destinations in January

Goa , India
Phuket , Thailand
Kerala , India
Fuerteventura , Canary Islands, Spain
Cape Town , South Africa
Marrakech , Morocco

Download the top 10 >>

Sunny holiday destinations by month

Check out our top 10 sunny holiday destinations for each month of the year. Whether you're looking for summer breaks or winter sun escapes, we'll show you where to get the best weather, expected flight time and what each destination is most well-known for.

Looking for more? Check out our complete guide to the weather in January and see where we recommend that has the best weather for a holiday .

Kirsten Henton is Weather2Travel.com's editor. Kirsten writes, commissions and edits our travel features, liaising with our contributors and ensuring copy is spick-and-span. A member of the British Guild of Travel Writers, Kirsten also freelances writing articles on travel, history and the outdoors for titles such as Scotland Magazine and BBC Travel.

Article updated on Saturday 20th January 2024 in: Africa Asia Caribbean Europe Season Winter sun

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‘Dying for Sex’ Series at FX Casts Jay Duplass, Kelvin Yu (EXCLUSIVE)

By Joe Otterson

Joe Otterson

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Jay Duplass and Kelvin Yu are the latest additions to the cast of FX ‘s limited series adaptation of “Dying for Sex,” Variety has learned exclusively.

The series is based on the podcast of the same name. Duplass and Yu join previously announced series lead Michelle Williams and cast members Jenny Slate, Rob Delaney, David Rasche, and Esco Jouléy.

The official description of the series states “Molly (Williams), a woman diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, leaves her husband of 15 years and begins to explore her sexuality. She gets the courage and support to go on this adventure from her best friend (Slate), who stays by her side all the way to the very end.”

Popular on Variety

As an actor, Duplass is known for his roles in shows like “Transparent,” “The Mindy Project,” “Industry,” “The Chair,” and “Percy Jackson and the Olympians.” Behind the camera, he and his brother, Mark, co-created the HBO series “Togetherness” alongside Steve Zissis. The brothers also co-created HBO’s “Room 104” and co-wrote and directed feature films like “Baghead” and “Jeff, Who Lives at Home” among several other collaborations.

He is repped by CAA and Odenkirk Provissiero Entertainment.

Yu is a seven-time Emmy nominee for his work on the writing team of “Bob’s Burgers,” winning the award in 2017 for best animated program. He also recently created the Disney+ series “American Born Chinese.” He has appeared on shows such as “The Afterparty” and “Master of None” as well as films like “Wonder Woman 1984” and “Milk.”

He is repped by Writ Large, WME, and Yorn Levine.

Liz Meriwether and Kim Rosenstock are writers, executive producers, and showrunners on “Dying for Sex.” Williams will produce in addition to starring. Katherine Pope, Nikki Boyer, and Leslye Headland will also executive produce along with Jen Sargent, Marshall Lewy, Aaron Hart and Hernan Lopez of Wondery Inc. 20th Television is the studio.

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COMMENTS

14 Absolute Best Days Out in January in England
READ MORE: The Best Places to Visit in 2023. 3. Hogwarts in the Snow. January is the perfect time to visit Hogwarts! The castle is covered in snow, making it the perfect place to take festive photos. If you're a Harry Potter fan, this is one event you won't want to miss.
13 things to do and places to visit in the UK in January
View Holiday*. 6. Celebrate Hen Galan, North Pembrokeshire. While the rest of us celebrate the New Year on 1st January, for those in Cwm Gwaun, a small wooded valley near Fishguard, Pembrokeshire, 'Hen Galan' falls on 13th January. In Welsh, hen means 'old' and calan means 'first day of the month'.
England in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More
England has a more moderate winter than what many first-timers might think when contemplating a January visit to northern Europe. For instance, average temperatures in the nation's capital, London, typically reach daily highs of 48°F (9°C) while lows are above freezing at 39°F (4°C). There are slight variations depending on where you travel.
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3. York. The Yorkshire marvel is a fantastic city all year round, and the brilliant roster of museums, restaurants and experiences make it a top-notch spot during winter. The National Railway ...
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Nov-Jan. Cheer on runners at the Serpentine New Year's Day Races : Head to Hyde Park for the New Year's Day 10K Race or 3K Fun Run. 1 Jan. Celebrate British music and culture at the New Years Day Proms: Kick off 2024 with fantastic performances from talented artists at Barbican Hall. 1 Jan.
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4. Celebrate Celtic music in Glasgow. If you're looking for a more festive type of winter fun, head north to Glasgow this winter. The Scottish city has well and truly earned its place on this list of best places to visit in the UK in January, as on January 18th the Celtic Connections festival kicks off. This annual folk, roots, indie, world ...
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Events in January. New Year's Day, UK-wide. Welcomed throughout the UK on January 1, there are a couple of places to be on this day. New Year's Day Parade travels through London on January 1. Scotland celebrates Hogmanay on December 31 and January 1, Scots' particular way of farewelling the old year and welcoming the new. And if you're crazy ...
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Edinburgh is one of the best destinations to visit in the UK in winter and particularly during the festive period.The Scottish capital hosts numerous events and activities in the build-up to Christmas including a fantastic light show on Princes Street Gardens where more than 1,000 fairy lights are switched on for the Festival of Lights.
16 Best Places to Visit in Winter in the UK
5. London, England London in the winter. There are many reasons to visit London in winter. The city is adorned with festiveness, stretching from the banks of the Thames River to the vibrant streets near Trafalgar Square.Once it snows, which happens rarely, the city becomes a unique utopia made even more beautiful by the recent dusting.
16 best places to visit in England
6. York. With its Roman and Viking heritage, ancient city walls and maze of cobbled streets, York is a living record of English history. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider's web of "snickelways" (narrow alleys), each one the focus of a ghost story or historical character.
13 amazing days out in Britain to beat the winter blues
On Jan 22 you can join the lodge owners, James and Rebecca Allison, in their 16-bedroom Georgian home for a Burns Night celebration with Scottish supper, readings and music (tickets £65). The ...
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Expect to see between 250-500 British and international films that have all been carefully picked from more than 5000 submissions. It's a great opportunity for those in independent filmmaking to get their work seen. London Short Film Festival | Various Locations | WA | 19th - 28th January 2024. Image Courtesy of Oxford Street.
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Here are the 20 best places to visit in January…. 1. Norway. Northern Lights over Hamnoy, Norway (Shutterstock) Make no mistake: Norway is cold in January. The coldest month of all in fact, with temperatures dropping to -2°C or lower, depending on how far north you go.
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However, in the UK, January is typically the coolest time of the year. During this month, the Cotswolds experience an average temperature ranging from approximately 1-6°C. It's the perfect weather for bundling up warmly and embarking on a tour of the exquisite Cotswold villages! 3. Expect short, dark (ish) days.
Top 5 Things To Do in January
The classic horror novel Frankenstein was published anonymously by Mary Shelley on 1 January 1818. Tilbury Fort on the bank of the Thames features in the story, one of many historic places that appear in literature. Winston Churchill passed away on 24 January 1965. As a war leader, Churchill used his extraordinary energy and inspirational ...
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10. Spain. Malaga, Spain, one of the best places to visit in Europe in January. Average temp: high 62, low 46 (varies by region) Fly into: Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, Malaga. If you are looking for a warm winter destination, the south of Spain and the Spanish islands are excellent options.
The Best Things to Do in Scotland in January
Discover the best things to see and do in Scotland in January in this ultimate guide, which includes overviews of the top winter attractions and tips on how to make the most of your visit. Contents. Edinburgh Castle. Holyrood Palace. Glasgow Cathedral. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Glencoe Mountain.
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Plan your trip The Isle of Scilly food festival is a ten-day celebration of local provenance taking place in September, with mouth-watering events like beach BBQs and vineyard tours. 📍 The best ...
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This is the only chance to see Lautrec's complete collection of posters in the UK before it moves to a permanent home at the Musée d'Ixelles in Belgium. 26 April-29 September, adults £10 ...
21 best holiday destinations in January 2024
Temperature in January:-1°C high; -10°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 1 hour 40 minutes Time difference: GMT +1 With New Year crowds gone and no school holidays on the horizon, January is a fine time to hit up the best ski resorts in Europe.And not only does French ski resort Val present the most reliable powder on the continent, but this St-Tropez-on-snow is only getting splashier.
Where is hot in January? The best destinations for winter sun
Tenerife lies off the coast of Morocco (Getty Images) Average temperature in January: 19C. Hours of sunshine per day: 6. The warmest destination in Europe provides just the right amount of winter ...
The best places to travel to in January 2024
In winter in the Ligurian Alps, wonderfully crisp air and snowy forest trails lure snowshoers to Aveto and Antola natural regional parks and yet-more-rugged Beigua Geopark, where snowshoe hire is available and marked circular trails offer sea views. All are within touching distance of regional capital Genoa, deliciously quiet in January yet as ...
20 magical places to visit in England
Well known for harbouring some of the greenest scenery in England, Lake District National Park is located in the northeast of the country and covers an area of 2,362 square kilometres (912 square ...
Where to go in January for sun: Best holiday destinations
A member of the British Guild of Travel Writers, Kirsten also freelances writing articles on travel, history and the outdoors for titles such as Scotland Magazine and BBC Travel. Article updated on Saturday 20th January 2024 in: Africa Asia Caribbean Europe Season Winter sun
'Dying for Sex' Series at FX Casts Jay Duplass, Kelvin Yu ...
As an actor, Duplass is known for his roles in shows like "Transparent," "The Mindy Project," "Industry," "The Chair," and "Percy Jackson and the Olympians."