uk place to visit in winter

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

These Are The 12 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In The UK For A Magical Winter Vacation

Have an unforgettable time visiting the UK this winter by adding some of these destinations in England, Scotland, and Wales to your itinerary.

Read update

Winter is a whimsical time to visit the United Kingdom. Whether traveling through Scotland, England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, the beauty of a frosted landscape surrounding historical castles is indescribable. Christmas and New Year's Eve are popular times to visit the UK because of the many celebrations and markets. See the most stunning locations in the UK this winter and stay at some dreamy, high-end hotels for the best experience.

UPDATE: 2023/01/18 16:03 EST BY KAT BELLO

There's no denying the stunning scenery of the United Kingdom, which becomes even more magical during the winter months. To continue helping readers plan a perfect vacation into the UK's many winter wonderlands, this article has been expanded and updated.

12 Edinburgh, Scotland

When visiting the UK during winter, Edinburgh, Scotland, should be on the top of travelers’ lists. This beautiful Scottish city has cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and an old-world charm. Visiting in winter, as Edinburgh becomes even more magical, is an excellent choice. The old town lights up for the winter months, and drinking a good Scottish whiskey in one of Edinburgh's famous and traditional bars should warm any traveler right up. Edinburgh is also perfect for the holidays; the city lights up during winter, and National Geographic named the Edinburgh Christmas Market the best festive market in Europe . Stay at the Brewdog Doghouse Edinburgh to make use of its outdoor seating, complete with fireplaces to keep warm.

Accommodation: Brewdog Doghouse Edinburgh
Address: 5 New Street, Edinburgh, EH8 8BH
Amenities: Restaurant, Free WiFi, Bar/Lounge

Related: Visit These 10 Unique UK Towns For Charming Fall Colors

11 London, England

No trip to the UK is complete without spending at least one or two days exploring England’s capital, London. Although London is busy and touristy, there’s a reason for its popularity. It’s politically and historically significant, dotted with landmarks, has a lively theater scene, a bustling nightlife, and world-class restaurants to choose from. With a ton of fun winter activities to choose from, spending a chilly time in London is always a good idea. Choose a high-end hotel like Hotel 41 for its sustainability and location close to Buckingham Palace.

Accommodation: Hotel 41
Address: 41 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0PS
Amenities: Restaurant, Free WiFi, Free Parking

10 Inverness, Scotland

Travelers can head to the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands this winter for a charming and peaceful experience in the UK. Inverness is on the country’s Northeast Coast and boasts a historic old town with an impressive 19th-century cathedral and an indoor Victorian Market. It’s the perfect place to do some holiday shopping before flying home for Christmas. Choose central accommodations like the Highland Apartments By Mansley , which are just 5 minutes away from the area’s major attractions.

Accommodation: Highland Apartments By Mansley
Address: Bridge House, 21-23 Bridge St, Inverness IV1 1HD, United Kingdom
Amenities: City View, River View, Terrace/Patio

9 The Cotswolds, England

In central and southwest England, there is a quaint region called The Cotswolds . It covers nearly 800 square miles and encompasses five counties: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, and Worcestershire. When travelers imagine a traditional English village, they are likely picturing the many charming towns of The Cotswolds. Experience luxury in the English countryside with a high-end hotel like The Hare & Hounds Hotel in Tetbury.

Accommodation: The Hare & Hounds Hotel
Address: Westonbirt, Tetbury, En, Gl8 8Ql, Gb, Tetbury, GL8 8QL

Related: These Are The UK’s Poshest Tea Experiences

8 Snowdonia National Park, Wales

Adventurous travelers will fall in love with Wales when visiting Snowdonia National Park during the winter. Located in the northwest of the country, this mountainous region is full of hiking trails and breathtaking viewpoints. Some visitors climb Mount Snowdon, which can be challenging during the winter. However, a successful ascent during this season is even more special when conditions are right. Stay just 10 minutes away from Snowdonia National Park at the charming Plas Yn Dre in Bala.

Accommodation: Plas Yn Dre
Address: 23 High Street, Bala, LL23 7LU
Amenities: Free WiFi, Complimentary Breakfast, Restaurant

7 Isle Of Skye, Scotland

The Isle of Skye is a must-visit spot on any trip to Scotland. This island is connected to mainland Scotland on the northwest coast by a bridge. Travelers will want to stay in Portree, a town with quaint boutiques and pubs, at a charming hotel like the Cuillin Hills Hotel. The island has some of the most beautiful landscapes in Scotland and is home to many beautiful fishing villages as well.

Accommodation: Cuillin Hills Hotel
Address: Scorrybrec Road, Portree, IV51 9QU
Amenities: Restaurant, Free Parking, Free WiFi

6 Bath, England

Travelers who want a city experience in the UK during winter but don’t want to stay in main tourist hubs like London or Edinburgh will enjoy a visit to Bath in Somerset County. This city is best known for its historic Roman Baths, which are even more appealing in winter. Enhance the luxury of the experience by staying near the Thermae Bath Spa at the Bathen House.

Accommodation: Bathen House Boutique Hotel
Address: 88 Newbridge Hill, Bath, BA1 3QA
Amenities: Restaurant, Bar & Lounge, Laundry Service, Free WiFi

5 Swansea, Wales

Most people visit Cardiff when traveling to Wales, but Swansea is a fantastic alternative, especially leading up to the holidays, and is a delightful winter adventure in Wales. Swansea Market is the biggest indoor market in Wales, perfect for doing some shopping on a chilly winter day. Swansea is also generally more affordable than Cardiff and offers scenic waterfront views. Stay close to the ocean at Patrick’s Boathouse.

Accommodation: Patrick’s Boathouse
Address: 642 Mumbles Road, Swansea, SA3 4EA
Amenities: Free WiFi, Pets Allowed on Request, Private Bathroom

4 Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland belongs to the UK rather than the Republic of Ireland, so travelers exploring the UK this winter can venture over this beautiful area with fascinating castles and otherworldly landscapes. The Giant’s Causeway is a unique natural wonder of more than 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. Stay near this UNESCO World Heritage Site at The Causeway Hotel.

Accommodation: Causeway Hotel
Address: 40 Causeway Road, Bushmills

3 Cambridge, England

During winter, Cambridge, England, is one of the most charming spots to visit in the UK. A light dusting of snow covering the courtyards of historic buildings like the University of Cambridge, Ely Cathedral, or Houghton Mill only makes the experience more magical. Travelers can appreciate artwork at the Kettle’s Yard or tour museums like the Fitzwilliam Museum. The Gonville Hotel is a great choice of accommodation for its location and amenities.

Accommodation: Gonville Hotel
Address: Gonville Place, Cambridge
Amenities: Spa and Wellness Center, Restaurant, Free WiFi

2 Derry, Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland's most well-preserved walled city, Derry, or Londonderry, is a vibrant town teeming with history. Known for its stunning murals and exciting festivals, there is hardly a bad time to travel to Derry. In winter, the 17th-century walls that once protected the city center feel like a magical pathway through Derry's long history, and the Love LegenDerry food festival closes winter off by celebrating the best of Derry's flavors. Stay right at the heart of the city at Bishop's Gate Hotel .

Accommodation: Bishop's Gate Hotel
Address: 24 Bishop Street, Londonderry, BT48 6PP
Amenities: Fitness Center, Restaurant, Bar & Lounge, Valet Parking, Free WiFi

1 Betws-y-Coed

Known as a gateway to Snowdonia National Park, this village in Wales has much more to offer than park-goer accommodation. Located within the Gwydyr Forest, this village is a picture-perfect stage for a wintry fairy-tale vacation. Whether hiking the scenic woods, hunting icy waterfalls, or getting to know the village's fantastic medieval landmarks, Betws-y-Coed is a perfect place for a magical winter vacation. Stay next to the gold court and enjoy the best of Betws-y-Coed's quaint charm at The Courthouse.

Accommodation: The Courthouse
Address: Old Church Road, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0AL
Amenities: Hot Tub, Complimentary Breakfast, Free WiFi, Fireplace

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The 14 most brrrilliant winter getaways in the UK

Reindeer, Rick Stein and the aurora borealis: check out our top picks for the best winter getaways in the UK for 2023

It's time to wrap up, folks: winter is just around the corner, and to the eternally optimistic folks here at Time Out, it means rosy cheeks, romantic walks and zip-lining through massive caves in North Wales . We never claimed to be normal.

Don those extra layers, hats, scarves and gloves, and get ready to enjoy all the glorious winteriness that the UK has to offer. You can head out in search of the Northern Lights , reindeer, Rick Stein’s finest creations and more — there is a lot to love in the UK, but winter shimmers brightest in these spots. Check out our top picks for the best winter getaways in the UK.

RECOMMENDED: 🌳The most amazing treehouses in the UK you can actually stay in 🚘 The best road trips in the UK 🏰The best castles in the UK 🧙‍♂️The best magical places to visit in the UK

At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines .

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Best winter getaways in the UK

1. Cornwall

Make plans for a Cornwall road trip this winter, and your heart will almost certainly grow in size. Not literally, that would be dangerous, but the procession of quaint fishing villages and sweeping walks are the stuff winter dreams are made of. Indulge in all the Rick Stein food you can find in Padstow before falling head over heels in love with St Ives , Mousehole and the rest.

📍 Check out the best things to do in Cornwall

2. North Wales

One way to keep warm during the winter months is to get the adrenaline flowing, and there are plenty of opportunities to do just that. North Wales offers a cavalcade of the things, from underground zip-lining in Llechwedd to rugged mountain biking in the wilds of Snowdonia National Park. The northern coast is gorgeous during the winter months, and towns like Conwy, Wrexham and Bangor come alive with frenzied conversation and plenty of pints.

📍Check out t he best things to do in North Wales

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 Museum is arguably the best travel-centric museum in the country, while York ’s Viking history is most alive at this time of year. Hit up the Jorvik Viking Centre and learn about those brutal times, before heading on an evening ghost tour of this most fascinating city.

📍Check out the best things to do in York

4. Bath

Bath is one of the most architecturally delightful cities in England, but there is something about a thin layer of snow that brings new characters out of the many constructions here. The Somerset stunner embraces the festive period like few other places, with a packed calendar of events and more romance than you can shake your fist at. Bath is plenty romantic all year round, but the feeling is taken to a new level during winter. The Christmas Market in Bath opens on November 24 and runs until December 11, so don’t miss that.

📍Check out the best things to do in Bath

5. Giant’s Causeway

The epic nature of the Giant’s Causeway shouldn’t lend itself to a simple experience, right? Visit Northern Ireland ’s legendary interlocking columns when the air is crisp, the winds high and the temperature low, and put yourself in the boots of a hardy warrior from years gone by. Watch your step, obviously, and visit safe knowing that the warmth of the Bushmills distillery is only a couple of miles down the road.

📍Check out the best things to do in Northern Ireland

6. Glasgow

The best music scene in the UK? Many cities will put their hands up with that one, but Glasgow might just pip them all to the prize. The gigs ramp up during the colder months as music fans across the city head for the warmth of the venues in search of the next Mogwai, Primal Scream or Belle & Sebastian. Hardy souls with excellent hats and scarves can take advantage of the idyllic green spaces, and the Glasgow Botanic Gardens are a celebration of flora that rival anything across the country.

📍Check out the best things to do in Glasgow

7. Orkney Islands

Of course, there is no guarantee when it comes to seeing the Northern Lights , but you still need to put yourself in the best position to see the phenomenon. In the UK, that means a trip to the stunning Orkney Islands, where the lights are referred to as the Merry Dancers. The aurora borealis is a fixture on many a bucket list, so head north during the colder months and hope the space particles are moving in your favour. Even if the colourful sky doesn’t materialise, the peace and tranquillity of Orkney is something to behold.

8. Pembrokeshire

No, you won’t find scorching winter temperatures anywhere during the winter here, but that doesn’t mean you should avoid the beach. Something is soothing about a beach during winter, and nowhere is this more apparent than in Pembrokeshire. This region in West Wales is all quaint villages and sweeping views, with brilliant walks and cosy pubs all over the place. If you’ve ever wanted to have an entire beach to yourself, Pembrokeshire in winter offers just that.

9. Cairngorms National Park

Is there an animal more tied to winter than the magnificent reindeer? Santa’s faithful chauffeurs can be seen in several places across the UK, but Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park is the only place where they run free as nature intended. You can see the handsome beasts all year round, but, come on, reindeer and Christmas are a match made in heaven. The national park is a stunner in its own right. Be sure to read Nan Shepherd’s ‘The Living Mountain’ before you go to amp up the excitement.

📍Check out the most beautiful national parks in the UK

10. Norwich

It always feels somewhat dangerous to throw such accolades around, but Norwich might be the most underrated city in the UK. A fabulous collection of bars and restaurants accentuate a long history and an atmosphere that is all of its own. It also makes a great base for exploring the Norfolk coast, where seals come to rest in winter. Blakeney Point Nature Reserve (a 40-minute drive from Norwich) is the place to see those beauties.

📍Check out the best things to do in Norwich

11. Ards Peninsula

Peace, tranquillity, serenity. Yes, they all essentially mean the same thing, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be seeking them out at every turn. Northern Ireland ’s Ards Peninsula is a hub of quietude in winter, with a wide range of beautiful walking spots that reward the hardy ambler with stunning views and all the romance one could need. Just wear a decent windbreaker because the winds get pretty rambunctious in these parts.

12. Hay-on-Wye

Book lovers have long known that Hay-on-Wye is the place to be, but even literary cynics will find plenty to sink their teeth into here during winter. The Hay Festival Winter Weekend takes place at the end of November (24 to 27 this year), and the entire extravaganza is a celebration of storytelling that will breathe new life into sceptical souls. The festival coincides with turning on the Christmas lights in town, which is always a cheerful occasion.

13. New Forest

Ponies racing over crackling leaves and snow-covered ground will never not be a gorgeous image, and New Forest National Park is the place to go for such scenes. You’ll have to find the ponies first, of course, and treat them with the utmost respect, but there is plenty more to entice when the temperature is low. The park is at its quietest during the winter months, with fewer cars and general traffic, making for beautiful strolls and some of the finest sunsets the UK has to offer.

📍Check out the best things to do in the New Forest

14. Ayr

Burns Night is a big deal, but where is the best place to celebrate it? Right in the heart of Burns Country, of course. Robert Burns was born in the village of Alloway, and the nearby town of Ayr is a hive of activity when the Scottish poet’s night comes along. That is January 25, for the record. Ayr is a medium-sized town with fewer than 50,000 people, but the appreciation of Burns here is second to none. You might as well make the pilgrimage to Alloway for the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum while in the area.

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Wonderful places to Visit in England in Winter (local tips!)

London symbols with BIG BEN, DOUBLE DECKER BUSES and Red Phone Booth in England, UK

Are you planning on visiting England in winter? There are lots of reasons to come to our little island in the cooler months, despite unpredictable weather!

The small country of England might not have the warmest weather, but we more than make up for it in history, beautiful landscapes and a unique culture.

The home of endless mugs of warm tea, roast dinners, Harry Potter, red buses, the Beatles, and so many more iconic things, there are endless things to do on this island, whatever the weather.

In England, the weather’s never that reliable anyway, which makes many attractions all-weather. Plus, visiting the country’s top tourist spots is much more enjoyable out of busy season (the summer).

What’s more, if you’re used to cold weather (hello Canadians, people from north USA and people from Central and Eastern Europe!), England’s winter weather will feel mild in comparison.

I grew up in London, but I moved to the West Country of England as an adult, living first in Bristol, then Bath and now Devon. I also have family in Cornwall and in Derbyshire, and have explored the length and breadth of this country in all seasons!

So, what are the best places to visit in England in winter?

We’ll go into them all in this blog post, which will help you plan your England winter trip!

Table of Contents

Reasons to visit England in the winter

So, why would you choose to visit England in the winter months? I can think of a few reasons:

England can be grey and rainy in the wintertime, but it’s often very atmospheric. I love a gloomy walk around Dartmoor on January’s day!

Plus, we get beautiful crisp, clear winter days too – and occasionally there’s even some snow. T here was tonnes of snow in the South East and north parts of the country in December 2022 (in the South West we didn’t get much, but it was very frosty!).

It’s rarely too cold, and while it can be rainy, most tourists find they can still get out and explore!

Attractions

Because good weather is never guaranteed in England – even in the summertime – we have plenty of all-weather attractions.

Cosmopolitan cities like London, Manchester and Birmingham have a huge array of museums and other top-rated tourist attractions, inside and outside.

Or, if you are lucky and get some warmer weather, you can enjoy hikes around the coastline or through our national parks.

Fewer tourists

Summer in England can be heaving, especially in the South West which is known for its beaches. But visit in winter, and you’ll be virtually the only tourist!

Cheaper prices

And with fewer tourists, prices can be much cheaper! You’ll find deals for flights and accommodations and even some restaurants offer deals in January or February (if you visit over Christmas, prices are likely to be inflated).

Hearty food

Whether you want to tuck into a roast dinner in a warm pub or enjoy a fish and chip takeaway after a bracing coastal walk, England’s food is instantly warming. Plus, we’re the home of English breakfast tea – and we serve it more or less everywhere!

Places to visit in England in winter

There are plenty of places to visit in England in the winter season – which runs from November to March. Here are some of the best!

London is a surprisingly excellent European winter city break .

Any time of year, you can enjoy iconic attractions like the Tower of London or the London Eye , and you might find that they are much quieter in the cooler months.

At Christmas , the place comes alive with festive cheer.

Enjoy the magical Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park or Christmas in Covent Garden.

With festive lights and plenty of chances to grab a mulled wine or hot chocolate, London in December has so many allures.

But there are also plenty of reasons to visit London in November , January and February too.

There are plenty of indoor attractions, including free museums like the Natural History Museum and V&A.

If you’ve got little ones in tow, you can take them to places like M&M world or the Science Museum.

London is also one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, with restaurants from all corners of the globe.

You can enjoy this glorious food scene – dining on anything from a falafel wrap to a steaming hot bowl of ramen – any time of year!

Thanks to London’s great connections to the rest of England, there are even a number of winter day trips that you can enjoy – some of these head to other destinations I’ve recommended in this guide, like Bath and the Cotswolds.

Wrap up warm, and you’ll love London in winter – you can see my full guide to the city here .

Bath is a gorgeous spa city and UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s perfect to visit in the winter months.

With historic buildings lining the streets, plenty of independent shops to browse and tea rooms to cosy up in, you’ll have an idyllic time here.

Bath was a prosperous Georgian town , and you can see that reflected in the beautiful city today. But its history stretches back even further.

It was founded by the Romans and enjoyed a prestigious status as a spa town. You can relish this in the city today, as there’s a Thermae spa with a rooftop pool with steam rooms and other spa facilities.

Or, visit the Roman Baths and Museum and finish with afternoon tea in the Pump Room where you can try the fresh spring water.

There are plenty of other indoor attractions in Bath as well. Visit the Jane Austen Museum, the Museum of East Asian Art and the Fashion Museum; or head to the newest exhibition, Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein (I visited this on a recent trip to Bath and absolutely loved it!).

February 19th. 2017 Broadway Village, Cotswolds, Worcestershire, Midlands, England, UK. This is the High Street in the famous and much visited tourist Costwolds village of Broadway. The road is lined on either side with honey coloured limestone buildings, traditional to the area. It is a bright warm afternoon in late winter. There are tourists and visitors in the picture.

The beautiful Cotswolds AONB is the perfect place for your winter holidays.

This vast area is home to an abundance of historic villages, interspersed with the rugged beauty of the English countryside.

It’s hard to say which is the prettiest village in the Cotswolds, but people often think that it’s Bourton on the Water . Sometimes known as ‘The Venice of the Cotswolds’, think of gorgeous cottages lining canals when visiting.

The cute village of Stow-on-the-Wold has one of the country’s oldest pubs and a beautiful church with a door that is framed by two trees.

The historic market town of Tetbury (which is the home of Prince Charles) is another lovely place to visit in the colder months, with lots of independent shops and restaurants and a few interesting museums.

The York Minster in the United Kingdom, taken in the evening from the city wall.

It can get cold up north, but York is the perfect place for a winter break.

With a labyrinth of charismatic streets winding through a charming city centre, there are plenty of all-weather attractions including the cosy Betty’s Tea Room and countless museums.

Learn about Vikings at the JORVIK Viking Centre and visit the National Railway Museum, where you can read about all things trains.

You can even walk around York’s city walls all year round!

Canterbury, UK - Jan 29 2018. A view of Canterbury Cathedral at the bottom of the cobbled Butchery Lane. The cathedral is the Mother Church of the Anglican Communion and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury

Canterbury is a cathedral city in the southeast of England. My sister went to university here, and it’s a beautiful historical place with charming buildings that transport you back centuries.

If you’re looking for somewhere that feels quintessentially British and is just a short journey from London, I’d definitely recommend Canterbury.

Famous for being the centre of the Church of England for centuries, Canterbury cathedral is worth a visit if you’re interested in history or religion.

Other attractions in Canterbury include various museums, St Augustines Abbey, Westgate Gardens and plenty of independent restaurants and fun bars.

You’re also not far from the coast here, so if you get a pleasant winter’s day, you could road trip to Herne Bay (this is where my dad lives, so I know the coastal town quite well!) or Whitstable.

Oxford

Oxford is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK.

Famous as the home of Oxford University (which is one of the most prestigious education institutions in the world!) Oxford University has historic buildings, an abundance of museums and university campuses to tour.

In the winter, Oxford has a fraction of the tourists compared to the summer – so you can explore without hundreds of other tourists around you!

Oxford is an expensive city, but you might experience a reduction in prices during the winter.

Again, it’s easy to reach from London; you can get the Oxford Tube (which confusingly, is a bus and not a train!) which costs just £12 one way and £18 for a return.

Lake District

The incredible landscapes of the Lake District are worth visiting any time of year.

In the winter, there are fewer tourists and brisk days have a magical feel about them. It could just be you and the lakes!

There are plenty of winter walks if you get the opportunity, where you can enjoy the peaceful serenity of the area.

Also, visit traditional towns and villages like Hawkshead, Koniton and Keswick where you can shelter for a cup of tea if needed.

There are beautiful places to stay all over the Lake District, from spa hotels to cosy cottages where you can stay warm all winter!

Dartmoor National Park

With wild landscapes and looming tors, Dartmoor National Park is the largest in England and is a wonderful place for a wintery walk.

Although it’s not always accessible due to rainy or potentially snowy weather, Dartmoor’s natural beauty makes it the ideal place for wintery walks.

I live close to Dartmoor, and my favourite spots are Hay Tor, Brent Tor (this one’s my favourite, it has a church on top of a hill with a sweeping view of the moorland!), the ancient ruins of Grimspound and the scenic Burrator Reservoir.

Don’t miss charming towns like Widecombe in the Moor (literally a village in the midst of Dartmoor!) and Ashburton (famous for antique shops and colourful houses!), and I’d also highly recommend dining at The Highwayman Inn , which has been called “ the weirdest pub in the UK “.

Dartmoor National Park is close to places like the coastal towns of Salcombe and Brixham and it’s not far from Exeter, Exmouth and Plymouth too.

I write travel guides to South West England on my other blog, Go South West England – it’s the biggest blog focusing solely on the West Country. You can check out my Dartmoor travel guide here .

Peak District

The Peak District is one of the most atmospheric landscapes in the country; a huge expanse of countryside with plenty of hills to climb up!

Situated mainly in Derbyshire, a midlands region, the Peak District extends into Yorkshire and other counties.

My mum grew up in Baslow, a Peak District village, and when we used to go and visit family, we enjoyed lots of walks like this one to Curbar Edge .

You can road trip through this natural landscape, stopping off in beautiful villages like Bakewell and Baslow, doing plenty of hikes if you get the weather for it!

If not, it’s the perfect place to rent a cosy cottage and hole up for the winter!

Winchester Cathedral and First World War soldier statue bathed in gorgeous light

With the backdrop of the 900-year-old Winchester Cathedral , this city has one of the best festive markets in the country.

If you’re looking for places to visit in England at Christmas, head to Winchester!

Winchester is a deeply historic place, and along with the cathedral you can enjoy the Old Bishop’s Palace, the City Mill and the museum.

Plus, here you’re in gorgeous Hampshire countryside – perfect for a wintery walk.

Back in Winchester, enjoy plenty of locally-run restaurants made with fresh seasonal produce.

Cornwall is home to beautiful seaside towns and charming local culture. In the summertime, this region of the UK is heaving with tourists.

But in the winter, there are barely any other tourists!

If you have crisp, sunny weather, you can enjoy hiking on the epic South West Coast Path and exploring Cornwall’s many botanical gardens and other outdoor attractions.

Plus, there are loads of museums in Cornwall.

Visit the Geevor Tin Mine museum to learn about Cornwall’s historic mining heritage, Jamaica Inn for smuggling history, the Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro for the most comprehensive look into Cornish history and culture, and lots of English Heritage and National Trust properties.

During Christmastime, Cornwall comes alive.

There are incredible Christmas lights in Mousehole and festivals and traditions all over the region!

My other blog, Go South West England, has the most comprehensive resource on Cornwall on the internet; you can check out my full Cornwall travel guide here , which links to hundreds of posts about the region.

Things to do in winter in England

Make sure you tick off the following on your England winter bucket list!

Visit charming towns and cities

One thing that England does very well is beautiful historical cities .

These cities are stunning any time of year, and in the winter you’ll find there are far fewer tourists.

Enjoy epic architecture spanning through centuries as you’ll feel like you’re taking a walk through the past.

Many of these cities have fascinating museums and historic restaurants, tea rooms, pubs and coffee houses for you to enjoy!

Some of the best cities are Bath, Oxford, Canterbury and York.

Charming towns include anywhere in the Cotswolds, Port Isaac and Cornwall’s fishing villages, Rye, Sandwich, Holmbury St Mary (where The Holiday was filmed!) and plenty of places in the Peak and Lake Districts.

Spend some time inside museums

There are dozens of amazing museums in England in winter!

Even better, many are free – including some of the best and most famous museums in London.

Visit the Natural History Museum, the V&A, the British Museum and the TATE Art Gallery, all without spending a dime.

Many other museums, including the Bristol Museum and the RAMM in Exeter, are completely free of charge.

There are hundreds of other museums in every city in the country too – from the Viking Museum in York to the SS Great Britain in Bristol!

Warm up in a cosy tea room

It’s a British stereotype that’s completely true – we really love tea!

Tea rooms are dotted all over England – you’ll find one in virtually every town and village in the country!

Here, you can enjoy some of England’s staples, like cream teas, delicious cakes and dainty sandwiches.

They’ve got a wonderful atmosphere and, in the winter, are the perfect places to warm up from the cold and shelter from the rain.

Road trip around quaint villages

The charming countryside of England is dotted with picturesque villages with quaint houses and cobbled streets.

Many of these villages can get too over-touristy in the summer months, but there’s plenty of room in the wintertime.

You can bundle up and stroll around the charming streets, feeling like you’ve gone back in time.

One of my favourite places in England is the cute village of Mousehole in West Cornwall. While the weather can be dramatic here in the winter, there are barely any tourists!

Go for a brisk coastal walk

There are some beautiful coastal walks in England – an entire coast path runs the whole way around the country and takes in some of the most incredible landscapes in Europe.

We don’t get rain all year round in England – sometimes we even get clear, brisk days in the winter.

Although the days can be short, you can fit in some great hikes in cool weather, while taking in some of the most incredible views in the country.

Visit one of England’s spa towns

Fancy a soak in the spa? There are plenty of spa towns and cities in England , where you can pamper yourself to your heart’s content!

Bath is the obvious one, but you could also visit Harrogate or Buxton for interesting history and plenty of spas.

Enjoy England’s Christmas markets

While England isn’t quite the same as traditional Bavaria, there are plenty of beautiful Christmas markets around the country.

Here, you can go Christmas shopping, sip on mulled wine and even enjoy rides!

Popular Christmas markets are in Bath, Winchester, Nottingham and of course, Winter Wonderland in London.

Enjoy a pub lunch with a roaring fire

A lot of English society revolves around pubs.

Fancy lunch? Head to the pub. Evening drinks? Visit the pub. Catch up with mates? Pub.

In the winter, pub lunches are gloriously hearty, and you can often sit right by a roaring fire.

Plus, you can enjoy pints of beer or wine as you unwind!

What is the weather like in England during winter?

England can be cold in winter, but it rarely snows. The temperature can drop into the low single digits, or even below freezing, frequently, but it’s not often prime snowing conditions.

Check out my full article that answers “does it snow in England?” by clicking here.

Expect average temperatures ranging from 15°C/ 60°F on either side of winter to 0°C/ 32°F – 5°C/ 41°F in the midst of winter!

It can also rain quite a lot – England is rather famous for its cold drizzle – but sometimes we have brisk days with clear skies.

Basically, prepare for all eventualities!

One of the most important things to remember is that it gets dark early.

Winter solstice is on 21st December when the sun sets before 4:00pm.

After this date, the nights start drawing out.

What to pack for a winter trip to England

Most locals wear scarves , hats and gloves during winter in England.

If you are used to cooler temperatures, you might not need them.

You also may need a heavy coat and sturdy boots to stay warm.

Definitely take a cosy jumper (or a few!) – you’ll need them!

Also, it rains a lot in England in the winter – so don’t forget your waterproofs !

Other things that you might need are an unlocked smartphone , a kindle or other e-reader and an adapter (we use a three-prong plug in England).

How to get around England in the winter

You can get around England by bus, train or car.

If you’re driving yourself, take care on the roads, as they can be icy (especially during the nighttime). Be particularly careful if you’re going down any quiet or country roads.

Trains and coaches can be subject to cancellations because of adverse weather during these times. However, they are a safe way of exploring the country.

Coaches are much cheaper than trains in summer and winter! Book trains early for more affordable prices.

Tips for visiting England in winter

Some attractions, like English Heritage or National Trust properties, are closed during the winter (particularly on weekdays). Factor this into your plans before heading out.
If the weather is particularly bad, s trike up a conversation about it with a loca l. We love moaning about the rain!
I’ve mentioned this earlier in the post, but if you have bad weather, head to the pub . This is what the locals do! Plus, there are some incredible pubs in the UK, many of which have associated stories and legends.

Claire Martin

Claire is an expert in exploring Europe in the winter! She's from the UK and has been to over 20 countries on the continent in the winter season. She loves every bit of Europe in the cooler months, including finding winter sunshine in Spain, skiing in the Alps and the charm of the Nordic countries in the festive season.

Where to go for a winter holiday in the UK

By Emma Love and Olivia Morelli

The prettiest places to go for a winter break in the UK

Once the picnic hampers and swimwear from our summer beach breaks have been safely stowed away and we’re fairly sure that all the sand has drained from our suitcase, we can finally let our minds drift to the cosiest of all getaways: a UK winter holiday. Cashmere blankets, hot chocolates and Hunter wellies at the ready, when it comes to a break in the cooler climes, we’re all in for as much mud as we can get outside and as many logs as we can get on the fire inside. In short, ramp up the cottagecore atmosphere (a world of slow living, thatched roofs and bliss in domesticity), and we’re on our way.

And to help you work out where to hang your hat (and your coat, scarf and gloves), we’ve rounded up the best places to visit, and to stay, for a UK winter holiday, whether you’re after bracing walks on crisp and frosty mornings, icy lakes that glisten in the sun or picturesque snow-covered mountain peaks. Vive l'escapade cosy, right?

Broadway, Worcestershire

Best for: a fairytale winter escape

Perfectly placed among the Cotswolds' prettiest villages , Broadway is a storybook setting for a festive holiday. Come for cottagecore to the extreme – thatched roofs glistening with frost, chimneys puffing out the excess of roaring fires and endless rolling hills covered in a blanket of thick, soft snow. Spend mornings hiking along the Cotswolds Way walking route, and afternoons cosying up in some of England's best country pubs where roasts are piled high with all the trimmings and strolls home are best accompanied by a takeaway mulled wine while watching the festive lights twinkle away on the high street.

Where to stay: Right in the middle of the high street sits the Lygon Arms , a classic Cotswold getaway. James Martin has just opened two restaurants inside (the Grill and the Tavern), and the afternoon tea is a welcome warm-up routine post-walk. There is a spa, too, with a selection of treatments to choose from (the Warm Oil massage sounds like a perfect winter treat) and a sauna, steam room and 14-metre swimming pool.

Braemar, Scotland

Best for: your nature fix

In Scotland's Cairngorms National Park, Braemar is a cutesy village surrounded by endless greenery waiting to be explored. There are plenty of walking routes which are magical in the winter – think frosted branches, icy lochs and snow-heaped munros. Nearby, the royal castle of Balmoral is a must, while Braemar Castle is also a point of interest for history buffs. Out in the sticks, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife: red squirrels, deer, mountain hares and pine martens roam the grounds, while eagles and ospreys soar through the skies.

Where to stay: Since art dealers Ivan and Manuela Wirth opened The Fife Arms in 2018, the hotel quickly became one of Scotland's most iconic stays. Huddle up by the fire to gaze at the art adorning the wall (there's pieces by Picasso, Man Ray, Louise Bourgeois, Lucian Freud and Pieter Brueghel the Younger strewn around the place), or hunker down in the Clunie Dining Room where wood-fired cooking is the only thing that could tear eyes away from the bespoke wall paintings by artist Guillermo Kuitca.

Castle Combe, Wiltshire

Best for: scenes straight out of a Christmas movie

This sleepy town is no stranger to the limelight. It's been used for a host of different film and TV projects from Doctor Dolittle and War Horse to Stardust, Downton Abbey and Bridgerton . And the 16th-century hamlet isn't one to hunker down for the cold season – the village takes on a new leading role come winter. Amble through winding streets sprinkled with a thin layer of snow, stop by the village hall to see if there are any Christmas markets popping up and go on long, mucky walks through the surrounding hillsides.

Where to stay: Lucknam Park is a country-house hotel just a 10-minute drive from Castle Combe. After a day spent exploring the village, pull up to this grand estate where you'll be swept away by the perfectly pretty gardens, stunning bedrooms and old-school dining areas.

Bath, Somerset

Best for: leisurely cobblestone strolls

Positioned at the heart of the Somerset countryside and surrounded by the Avon river, Bath is one of England’s most well-known and well-loved city breaks all year round, though in the winter it really comes into its own. For among the grand Regency façades and scores of honey-hued streets lined with independent shops and delis, lie many opportunities to warm up in true Bath-style: in the thermae spas that it’s so famed for. Convalescing in the steaming waters here is a must-do experience that has enchanted humans through the ages, from the Romans to the petticoat-clad women of the Regency era and now, the solace-seeking visitors of the 21st century.

Where to stay: From its regal perch in the middle of the Royal Crescent arc, the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is one of the most famous hotels in Bath , fronted by manicured green gardens and boasting views down and over the city. For an authentic taste of Bath life, the handsome villa – enchantingly named ‘ Georgian Blushes ’ by Plum Guide sits in the well-heeled residential district of Bathwick. Commanding incredible views of the city of Bath, just a 20-minute walk away, it's easy to see why this neighbourhood is so sought-after. For more private stays, see our pick of the best Airbnbs in Bath .

Beaulieu, New Forest

Best for: kayaking in a private estuary

Beaulieu River is the idyllic location for invigorating two-hour guided ‘winter paddling’ sessions with New Forest Activities : choose from either open-top Canadian canoes or typical stable touring kayaks and push off from Baileys Hard. Large sections of the river are part of the North Solent Nature Reserve, which means plenty of birds flitting along the reed-covered banks to distract from any aching arms. Just remember to bring a flask of steaming hot chocolate to help you warm up afterwards.

Where to stay: One of our favourite hotels in the New Forest , The Montagu Arms Hotel , is idyllically placed on a corner in Beaulieu, sandwiched between the high street and the river. Another option is Chewton Glen , a classic English country hotel with a brilliant spa.

Ullswater, Lake District

Best for: scenic hikes

The setting for William Wordsworth’s famous poem Daffodils has much more to recommend than just that which would entice literary buffs. Ullswater - the second largest lake in the Lake District - ripples on the border between the historic counties of Cumberland and Westmorland, and is encircled by moor-covered fells and off-grid Airbnbs and guest houses that invite cosy nightcaps after a day’s thermal-clad explorations. The lake itself was scooped out by a glacier in the Last Ice Age and so it’s an area already au-fait with cold and so it will come as little surprise that chilly staycations here are well-catered for, with enchanting hiking trails matched by equally as enchanting stately homes and gardens for anyone wanting a respite from the crisp climate.

Where to stay: Another Place , with its infinity pool basking in the imposing shadow of the mountain range beyond, is an 18th-century lakeside home turned upmarket hotel & spa, while this traditional boathouse on the shore of the lake itself offers a romantic hideaway for those wanting a front-row seat to the action. See our pick of the best Airbnbs in the Lake District for more options.

Salisbury, Wiltshire

Best for: a cultural fix

The medieval cathedral city of Salisbury in Wiltshire sprawls out from the ornate, 13th-century cathedral (which holds the original copy of the Magna Carta from 1215 A.D) and along the banks of the River Avon. Its rich and storied history never fails to enchant and delight those who visit, with the centre notable for its checkerboard layout, with enclosed gardens squeezed between the houses. Stonehenge on the Salisbury Plains is just nine miles from the middle of the city, though closer to its nucleus, a clutch of boutiques, first-rate eateries and museums are enough to keep those who visit well-entertained, both indoors and out.

Where to stay: for self-catering, this newly converted barn with breathtaking views over the picturesque Chalke Valley is dog-friendly and has a farm shop on-site, or the country-chic quarters of Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa feature a glass-fronted restaurant and a spa.

Woodstock, The Cotswolds

Best for: fabulously festive illuminations

The illuminated light trail is always a highlight of the Christmas celebrations at Blenheim Palace , from the vaulted Tunnel of Light that twinkles with more than 100,000 white bulbs to the futuristic woodland Laser Garden and the Water Terrace pièce de résistance, where coloured lights are projected onto the palace’s façade. Sip a cup of mulled cider as you explore the grounds, and afterwards toast marshmallows around the fire pit.

Where to stay: The Swan Inn , a smart pub with rooms in Chipping Norton, or take over one of our favourite Airbnbs in the Cotswolds .

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York, North Yorkshire

Best for: exploring the medieval streets

There is something distinctively special about York in the winter, its grand cathedrals, ramshackle labyrinth of shopping streets and Bohemian spirit wrapped in a quilt of frost, the Great Bundled-up milling within its ancient walls. Originally a Roman and then Viking settlement, history is woven into every structure and street within its old centre, though the outskirts are now peppered with quirky boutiques, lively student haunts and an inventive foodie scene. Ghost tours are a hot ticket here, as is any sort of tour that affords a slightly off-beat take on the culture, and the Viking museum of Jorvik is a hit with visitors young and old.

Where to stay: Part of a convent that is still in operation, historic The Bar Convent (inventive, we know) is one of Britain's more unusual guest-houses and offers a thoughtful antidote to the pricier properties that well-heeled travellers tend to opt for. Sleeping four, The Grand Old Duchess sits on the right-hand side of the River Ouse close to the locally loved Bishopthorpe Road – a street given the nickname 'The Notting Hill of the North'.

Cley Marshes, Norfolk

Best for: bird spotting and boat trips

You know winter is on its way when thousands of pink-footed geese migrate to the UK. Each year these pink-grey birds swap their breeding grounds in Greenland and Iceland for the mudflats and salt marshes of Norfolk (most arrive by the end of November), where they spend their days feeding on the tops and tails of sugar beet left in the fields by farmers. The sight, as the flocks fly back to their roosts at dusk, is extraordinary. December and January are also peak months for grey seals to give birth to their pups: head out on boat trips from Morston Quay for an up-close look at these inquisitive creatures swimming in the water and lolling on the beaches.

Where to stay: The Victoria Inn, Holkham , a 19th-century hotel surrounded by acres of parkland. See our edit of the best hotels in Norfolk for more options.

Hay-on-Wye, Wales

Best for: a bookish weekend break in the UK

In normal years, the main difference between the annual Winter Weekend festival in Hay-on-Wye and its longer literary counterpart in May is that while the talks – by writers, artists, academics, thinkers – still take place in a tent, there’s a real focus on events in the town too. In 2020, the event will be streamed digitally – but visiting the town in winter to leaf through the many bookshops is still a wonderful low-key day trip.

Where to stay: Cheese Market Flats , which occupy a splendid vantage point in the historic market opposite the castle.

Newquay, Cornwall

Best for: surfing big breaks without the crowds

The water might be icy but there’s no need to hang up your wetsuit: winter surfing in Cornwall is mercifully crowd free apart from a handful of hardcore locals who turn out in all weathers to make the most of the swells (during the colder months, low-pressure systems build up in the Atlantic, driving surf towards the west coast). And there are plenty of sweet spots to choose from, whether it’s Newquay’s legendary Fistral beach or protected Praa Sands, an hour’s drive away near Porthleven, where the northwest to northeast winds create hollow, fast waves.

Where to stay: Watergate Bay , a renowned beachside hotel with eco-friendly self-catering accommodation. For more options, see our edit of the best hotels in Cornwall .

Lode, Cambridgeshire

Best for: a mindful meander in winter gardens

There’s something rather wonderful about crunching along the frosty narrow path at Anglesey Abbey , just outside Cambridge , on a freezing sunny morning. Here, the Winter Garden has been specially designed with plants that are at their most vibrant in the colder months: flaming scarlet willow and red-barked dogwood, the Killarney strawberry tree, which bears fruit just before Christmas, and the grove of Himalayan silver birch trees with their stark white trunks. Snowdrops bloom in January and February, and the scent of winter–flowering honeysuckle and Christmas box fills the air. Those who want to make it more of a ‘mindful meander’ can pick up a sensory trail map from reception, which marks the most peaceful spots for contemplation.

Where to stay: The University Arms , a Victorian hotel transformed by Royal Family-approved classical architect John Simpson.

The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Best for: a glimpse of the northern lights

Instead of hopping on a plane to the Arctic Circle to see the northern lights, rent a car and drive a section of the Wild Atlantic Way , which stretches 1,500 miles along the west coast of Ireland . With secluded bays, rocky headlands and sheep-dotted hills, it’s pretty magical at any time of year but brave the changeable weather and there’s a chance of witnessing the Aurora Borealis too. The unpolluted skies of the unspoilt Northern Headlands at the tip of the route are your best bet for a clear sighting.

Where to stay: The Wild Honey Inn , an old-school restaurant with rooms.

The Lake District, Cumbria

Best for: wild walking in the hills

Whether strolling the length of the seven-mile Borrowdale Valley or yomping up the steep path to Tarn Hows, through woodland and past gushing waterfalls, the possibilities for wild winter walking in the Lake District are endless. Yes it’s glorious in the summer sun but it’s equally atmospheric in the off-season mist and drizzle, when there are far fewer walkers and the solitude of the mountains acts like a soulful reset. Pack waterproofs and sturdy boots, and plot your path so there’s a rewarding tea shop or cosy pub at the end.

Where to stay: The Kirkstile Inn , a handsome, traditional 16th-century inn.

Best for allaction winter sports Forget Switzerland Scotland has skiing much closer to home. The varied terrain at...

Cairngorms, The Scottish Highlands

Best for: all-action winter sports (and reindeer)

Forget Switzerland , Scotland has skiing much closer to home. The varied terrain at Glenshee , in the Cairngorms National Park, makes it one of the best options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Runs extend across three valleys and several mountains, including Glas Maol, which offers access to some of the best off-piste slopes. While you’re in the Highlands , don’t miss the chance to visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd that roams the mountains .

Where to stay: Killiehuntly Farmhouse , an impeccably renovated 17th-century farmhouse.

Canterbury, Kent

Best for: a button-busting foodie break

From Michelin-starred gastropubs – think chef-owner Daniel Smith’s refurbished riverside pub The Fordwich Arms in Fordwich and Stephen Harris’ The Sportsman in Seasalter – to the Goods Shed farmers market and food hall in Canterbury, the foodie buzz about this corner of the UK has been growing for some time. Plan a weekend around a list of must-try restaurants and, in between meal times, cycle off what you eat along the Viking Coastal Trail, which takes in of-the-moment seaside towns such as Margate , Broadstairs and Ramsgate.

Where to stay: The Pig at Bridge Place , a foodie hideaway set in a 17th-century manor.

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Step into a fairytale: The UK's 13 most magical villages and towns to visit this winter

Discover Britain's prettiest villages, towns and cities for a winter break, each packed with cosy pubs and hotels, festive activities and magical winter walks.

Paul Richardson

Winter holidays are all the more rewarding with a cosy base, somewhere to warm up and relax with friends and family after a cold day exploring the British countryside – and all the spectacular wildlife spectacles that can be found within it.

Here are some of our favourite cities, towns and villages to visit in the winter months, from the Scottish Highlands and Dorset hills to Northern Ireland's spectacular coastline and the great mountains of Wales.

Each winter holiday idea has its own selection of warm, comfortable pubs and pretty places to stay, as well as suggested locations for nearby walks and activities.

Looking for more winter inspiration? Check out our guides to Britain's most magical winter walks , the best places to go skiing in the UK and stunning winter beaches to visit .

Coastal fishing village harbour at night in mist

Best winter holiday destinations in England

Ironbridge, shropshire.

The Iron Bridge, spanning the River Severn just south of Telford, appears frozen in time when covered in snow and ice. The town is a tribute to our industrial heritage. Visit the Ironbridge Gorge Museums for a lesson in local history, and a chance to escape from the cold.

Castle Combe, Wiltshire

In certain places, the centuries seem to pass by with barely a ripple of change. The Cotswold village of Castle Combe – a living antique adrift in the Wiltshire countryside – is one of them. It looks no less exquisite today than it did when its weavers played their part in the medieval wool industry: think narrow lanes, a meandering brook, and storybook cottages with tile-stone roofs. The last new house? Built in the 1600s. In winter, Castle Combe's charm is accentuated, and the surrounding valley with its gorgeous woodland become a magical playground.

Shaftesbury, Dorset

At 215 metres above sea level, this is one of the highest towns in England. Snow on the steep cobbles of Gold Hill increases the dramatic effect of the street, still remembered for 1973’s romantic Hovis advert. The are lots of opportunities for walking in Dorset , and some 10 miles north of Shaftesbury are Stourhead ’s spectacular winter gardens.

Bowness-on-Windemere, Lake District

Fuel up on coffee and cake in the town of Bowness-on-Windermere then make for the Cumbrian hills . There's plenty to explore within a few minutes of the town, including a moderate-level walk to the Kennel Wood oak , and a mini mountain climb from Hawkshead – another ice town – to the summit of Latrigg .

Broadway, Worcestershire

The picturesque village of Broadway , with its warm, honey-hued cottages, is the perfect base for a wintry stroll. Take time to meander along the high street past pubs, cafés, tea rooms and shops – offering art and antiques, country clothing and gifts – then head into the Cotswold hills.

Settle, Yorkshire

From this small town in the south-west corner of the Yorkshire Dales follow the icy waters of the River Ribble northwards for about two miles to the glorious waterfall of Stainforth Force. Ye Olde Naked Man Café is a firm favourite for a daytime snack. There are lots of options for walking in the area, including an 8.5-mile circular walk from Settle to Stainforth .

Beer, Devon

Three fishing boats on the beach at Beer in Devon

The small village of Beer, sheltered by white chalky cliffs above a steep shingle beach, sits on the Jurassic Coast near Lyme Regis. Along this stretch of the Devon coastline, the rocks provide a haven for wildlife, even in winter, and it’s a site of geological and historical interest, too.

Despite its popularity in the summer months, Beer is a peaceful spot in winter, somewhere to while away the hours watching fishing boats boat and and foaming waves crashing onto the beach. Walk the coast from nearby Branscombe to Beer , then relax with a pint at the Anchor Inn , the Barrel of Beer or the Dolphin Hotel .

Best winter holiday destinations in Wales

Beddgelert, snowdonia.

The breathtaking village of Beddgelert is situated in the Snowdonia national park . Nestled in a valley dominated by mountains it sits at the convergence of two rivers, the Glaslyn and Colwyn. Attractive bridges cross the water and lead to many captivating walks in Snowdonia . If pure luxury is what you’re after to warm your sole on a snowy winter's day, then the Sygun Fawr hotel is the place for you.

Best winter holiday destinations in Scotland

Stirling, stirlingshire.

Picture-postcard Stirling, built on the banks of the River Forth in central Scotland, is particularly magical in winter. The castle watches over the city, while the snow-covered summits of Stuc a’Chroin and Ben Vorlich dominate the landscape beyond. There are plenty of places to stay, including Willy Wallace Hostel and The Stirling Highland Hotel .

Lochinver, Highland

Scottish village of Lochinver on a sunny spring day with Suilven behind

The rugged setting of this picturesque west-coast village 30 miles north of Ullapool contributes to its icy conditions. The mountain peak of Suilven provides the perfect snowy backdrop to the village. Hike up it, or simply marvel at it, then head to the harbourside, where Peet’s Restaurant serves locally produced food with bonus views across the loch.

Aviemore, Highland

The Strathspey steam train prepares for the nostalgic day ahead travelling from Aviemore to Broomhill ©Getty

Excitement abounds when looking out from the Highland town of Aviemore to the mighty Cairngorms mountains, beloved by snowboarders, skiers and winter climbers. It’s the visceral reaction to the size and rawness of these granite giants that makes this landscape such a compelling place for all nature lovers. Bustling Aviemore, with its choice of hip or traditional bars, a good Italian restaurant and swish, hotel-run wooden cabins, is the ideal base for a wintry foray around the northern fringes of the park and its most beautiful lochs .

Best winter holiday destinations in Northern Ireland

Newcastle, county down.

The coastal town of Newcastle in County Down offers a quiet escape on what is often a busy time of year for holidaying. To the norther of the town is Murlough National Nature Reserve , a wildlife-watchers’ dream, while behind it sits the mighty Mourne Mountains – a true winter playground after a night of snowfall.

Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

This historic market town, built on an island between Upper and Lower Lough Erne, is the ideal base for exploring Fermanagh in winter. It’s the county’s largest and most vibrant settlement, where pretty townhouses rub shoulders with traditional pubs and vivacious cafés. For beer, drop into traditional pub Blakes of the Hollow , then head downstairs for fine dining at Café Merlot.

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16 UK Winter holiday destinations: best places to visit in UK in Winter

Looking for the best UK Winter holiday destinations? In this post, we’ll dive (or sleigh) right into the best places to visit in UK in Winter so you can plan your perfect festive getaway.

Please note that this blog post most likely contains affiliate links to products or services I use and love! If you click on the links, it means I get a little extra pocket money at no additional cost to you. This is what keeps my website ticking over – thank you!

There are some beautiful places to visit in UK in Winter! Whether you’re looking for a cosy staycation or an enchanting Winter holiday, the United Kingdom has some fantastic destinations to choose from. In this travel guide, we explore some of the best.

As a Brit who had most of my holidays within the UK until my late-20s, I’m a big fan of ‘Winter staycations’. While you’ll definitely need a waterproof Winter coat, gloves and some thick boots, much of the UK – particularly Southern England – remains relatively mild, at least in comparison to other parts of the world, which require a lot more planning to travel through the Winter Season.

That said, as you go further North, there are some beautiful places to see snow and white-tipped mountain ranges too. And, if you’re lucky, you may see snow throughout the UK. Below, our recommendations for the best UK Winter holiday destinations are as varied as they are beautiful.

I’ve also included places to visit in UK in December, so you can finish of your year with a warm dose of festive sparkling. From historical towns decorated with twinkling festive lights and traditional European Christmas markets to incredible natural scenery that breathes new life into the coldest season, there are many splendid locations to choose from for your seasonal vacation.

Read on to discover the best places to visit in Winter in the UK.

Table of Contents

1. MOURNE MOUNTAINS

by Allan from It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor

It’s relatively rare to get heavy snow on the island of Ireland, and more so in the low-lying coastal regions. So in Northern Ireland, the best place to find winter scenery is in the Mourne Mountains, the country’s highest mountain range, where the tallest peak of Slieve Donard will have snow even in the cooler months. The region is also well known for its natural beauty and was the inspiration for the Chronicles of Narnia as C.S Lewis would almost expect a “giant might raise his head over the next ridge”.

Walking Wild from Ben Crom Reservoir to Silent Valley on the Mourne Mountains 1

There is a lot to explore in the Mourne region, with wintery walks crisscrossing the various peaks, including some standalone attractions such as the Silent Valley and the Bloody Bridge. There are also famous parks, such as Tollymore Forest Park (which is also stunning in Autumn ) and Castlewellan. Camping is also popular, although the heated Glamping pods may be a better option, and it is best to have personal transport. Otherwise, the seaside town of Newcastle makes an excellent base, and it’s just a short journey by bus (around 1 hour) from Belfast City Centre. Walking directly from the town centre to the highest peak at Slieve Donard is also possible.

So if you’re looking for UK Winter destinations that promise Narnia-worthy views and a healthy sprinkle of snow, then the Mourne Mountains is an ideal option.

Mourne Mountains uk winter holiday destinations

by Faith from Xyu and Beyond

Belfast in Winter is a magical place, especially around Christmas. The city is full of sparkling lights, gourmet dining and brilliant Christmas markets.

You can step back in time and enjoy The Old Curiosity Shop at Titanic Belfast while visiting Father Christmas and enjoying a luxury High Tea. Then head to Belfast City Hall to shop and eat at the Belfast Christmas Market, which takes place every evening in the run-up to Christmas.

The Belfast Christmas Market offer crafts, artwork, superb street food, and rides for the kids on heritage fairground attractions like a beautiful old carousel. Or you could head to the Christmas Market at Castle Ward (the site of the Game of Thrones Winterfell) and enjoy an 18th-century Georgian Christmas. St George’s market is the last-surviving covered market in Belfast and offers a twilight Christmas celebration and shopping experience.

These days Belfast has some of the finest chefs in the world presenting food fit for a queen. If you want a true luxury stay, why not book into the 5-star Merchant Hotel? The Merchant is a stunning Georgian Italianate building from the 1800s and is located in the heart of the Cathedral District – the place for dining and celebrating. These days, it is an opulent hotel with many luxuries, including a fabulous cocktail bar and a rooftop hot tub.

The city is full of winter activities, such as the usual lighting of the Christmas lights, a Santa Claus parade, and beautiful choirs in the cathedral. If you want something a little more athletic, why not take in a hockey game at the Belfast arena, or how about some horseracing in Co Down?

Belfast is a safe and welcoming city that will surprise you with its many amenities and fascinating historical sites – which can be easily visited on this hop on hop off tour – alongside designer shopping and as we say in Ireland some great craic.

With sparkling Christmas markets, plenty of festive activities, and historic pubs to warm up in, Belfast undoubtedly one of the best places to see in UK in Winter.

3. CAIRNGORMS

by Kat from Wandering Bird

If you want to get away from crowds and enjoy the most breathtaking winter scenery, head to the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland. This is the largest National Park in the UK and is so beautiful that National Geographic voted it one of the top 20 places to visit IN THE WORLD.

The park is 4500 square km and contains a mix of mountains, valleys, castles and whiskey distilleries. Although the Cairngorms are famous for hiking and summer outdoor pursuits, there is plenty to entertain you during the cold winter months.

For a start, it snows. A lot. This is one of the few places in the UK where you can enjoy decent skiing. There are a couple of areas to choose from, although Aviemore is by far the most famous. Here, you can enjoy European-type chalets, ski shops, and decent slopes once the snow sets in.

Despite the snow, it’s still reasonably easy to travel around and explore the Cairngorms in winter – especially if you have your own vehicle. Many hotels stay open- particularly near the big resorts- or, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, go campervanning in Scotland and stay in your van (make sure there’s heating!)

Many of the hikes are still open, but you must be prepared- layers, safety gear, and decent crampons are essential.

After all that cold outdoors, you can warm up in one of the whiskey distilleries in the area- nothing like a hot toddy to warm you from the inside out during a chilly UK Winter!

cairngorms mountains beautiful Scottish winter destinations

4. EDINBURGH

by Tracy from Tracy’s Travels in Time

Edinburgh is a wonderful winter destination to visit in the UK. Edinburgh has so many things to offer in the winter season it’s impossible to list everything. Highlights include the Edinburgh Christmas markets, which kick off the festive season, Hogmanay to welcome in the New Year and Burns night at the end of January.

The Edinburgh Christmas markets are a must-visit in the winter. Around 40 stalls sell festive gifts , food, and drinks, including many types of mulled wines. Traditional German bratwurst and hot chestnuts all make for an enjoyable experience.

Hogmanay celebrations commence on the 30th of December and last 3 days. This celebration has three main components: Torchlight Procession, Concert in the Gardens and Ceilidh (traditional Scottish dance party with live music). It is a massive event with thousands of people enjoying the spectacular fireworks and ceilidh.

The highlight of Edinburgh winter celebrations is Burns night (25th January). Throughout the month of January, many places such as restaurants and pubs host “Burns Suppers”. This includes a three-course meal with haggis, neeps and tatties, a recital of Robbie Burns’ poetry and a toast with champagne.

Edinburgh in winter is an experience not to be missed!

Edinburgh uk winter holiday destinations

5. HARROGATE

by Coralie from Grey Globetrotters

The elegant spa town of Harrogate in the beautiful English county of North Yorkshire is an exceptional place to visit for a winter break. Just 40 minutes away from Leeds and York, Harrogate town is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, foodies, and discerning shoppers to enjoy.

Take a tour of the intact Royal Turkish Baths, loved by European royalty, then indulge in a luxurious spa treatment too. Moments away, you’ll find the legendary Betty’s tearoom – the ultimate place to stop for silver service afternoon tea or maybe just a “fat rascal”. The stylish independent shops and restaurants in the Montpellier Quarter are the perfect place to browse for something special, dine-in outstanding restaurants and visit the Christmas market that attracts visitors from miles around.

Harrogate is a very green town, with 200 acres of protected parkland known as the Stray, plus the fabulous Valley Gardens Park and the stunning RHS gardens of Harlow Carr offering attractive opportunities for a leisurely wander.

Moments from the town itself, the wider Harrogate area is simply beautiful, with myriad things to see and do. Ripley Village and Castle. Knaresborough Town and the ancient city of Ripon are moments away, as is the magnificent must-see UNESCO World Heritage site of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, all of which are exquisite in the winter.

Keen walkers and climbers flock to Harrogate as it is on the doorstep of the glorious Yorkshire Dales. It is the perfect base to return to and relax after an exhilarating day out exploring the countryside. Pop into the Fat Badger or Major Tom’s Social for a pre-dinner drink, dine in style at the Ivy and then retire in sublime luxury at Rudding Park for the ultimate winter treat.

With so much to explore both indoors and out, Harrogate easily makes our list of best places to visit in England in December.

6. PEAK DISTRICT

by Jenny from Peak District Kids

Winter in the Peak District can feel like you’ve stepped into a Dickens novel; quaint limestone villages decorated in festive cheer, the warm, inviting glow from the local pub with holly framing the log fire, and a covering of snow on the hilltops and escarpments. Honestly, what could be better for a UK Winter staycation?

Peak District best UK destinations for a Winter Holiday

If you’re looking for snow, best to head to the Dark Peak (the Northern side) of the Peak District, as this is higher ground. If there’s going to be snow anywhere, you’ll find it on this Mam Tor walk or upon the Kinder Plateau, and the views are absolutely incredible.

However, please take care. When visibility is low, it’s very easy to get lost up there (make sure you are confident in navigation and don’t rely on your phone), and footpaths can be very icy (we advise taking slip-on crampons). As these areas are exposed, the temperature will also feel much lower than in the valleys, so dress accordingly. Head back to a pub for a hot chocolate by the fire to warm up again.

And if you’re visiting over Christmas, go to the markets and festive displays at Chatsworth House, one of the grandest estates in the UK. Nearby, Matlock, Bakewell, and Buxton also run Winter markets.

And if you’re looking for a longer England Winter holiday to see the best of the British mountains, extend your trip with a visit to the Lake District National Park, less than 2 hours drive away.

Peak District beautiful Winter holidays in England

7. SHEFFIELD

by Dan from Urban Abroad

If you are looking for the best places in Winter in UK for a memorable festive escape, whether alone or with the family, what could be better than a UK Winter city break visiting the Winter Gardens? Based in Sheffield city centre, across from the world-famous Crucible Theatre, you’ll find an indoor plant garden that allows you to escape the chilly daytime breeze and connect yourself with one of the largest temperate glasshouses ever designed in the UK. As one of the most visited free things to do in Sheffield here, you can connect yourself with the collection of more than 2,000 plants on display.

If you visit in November or December, the Christmas markets are open on the nearby Fargate. There you’ll have the opportunity to browse one of the many traditional wooden cottages where you can purchase a plethora of Christmasy treats such as hot Mulled Wine, Christmas puddings, or even treat a loved one to some of the lovely local produce on offer.

8. SNOWDONIA

by Kat from Biker Girl Life

For places to visit in Winter in the UK focused on the outdoors, head to Snowdonia National Park in Wales.

Snowdonia is home to some of the highest peaks in the UK, including the famous Mount Snowdon, and it was the first established National Park in Wales. There is generally a decent snowfall during winter, although there isn’t the same level of skiing or snow activities that you find in the Scottish Highlands.

As well as mountains, the park contains open land and over 30 miles of dramatic coastline and beaches. There are also lakes, rivers and villages within the park’s boundaries, and plenty of places remain open during winter.

If you enjoy hiking, it’s still possible to climb Mount Snowdon during winter, and there are some really clear days where you can see Ireland from the top, but please check the weather carefully and carry appropriate safety gear- the clouds and fog can come in very quickly, not to mention the effect of the cold!

History lovers will enjoy the impressive Caernarfon Castle- one of the best castles in the UK- and plenty of award-winning restaurants to appeal to foodies.

Snowdonia Wales beautiful British destinations

by Zoe from Together In Transit

Norwich is definitely one of the best places to visit in UK in Winter if you need a city break. Located North of London in Norfolk County, it’s easy to get to by car, train and even possible to fly to Norwich airport.

During the winter period, the city centre and large shopping mall are lit up with cute Christmas decorations from themed window stores, hanging decorations and decorations throughout the walkways. There are lights everywhere, too; for example, you can find yourself walking in a beautifully lit Tunnel of Light made up of over 50,000 lights. The city also organises a show of projections on Norwich Castle. So it’s well worth a walk here!

Norwich Winter holiday destinations in Britain

Another beautiful festive event is the local festivities at Norwich Cathedral. Spread over many days, you can shop at the fayre and stalls before enjoying the warm food and drinks served. Else you can see some farm animals that will stay here for those who will visit with children. Lastly, listen to one of the many Choir sessions held here over Christmas.

For a wintery walk, head out to the coast for a walk at the dunes or pier. Here it’s perfect for getting a little windswept with some of the fresh sea air – perfect for getting away from the city for an afternoon. There is even a little cafe for a warm drink or a piece of cake to warm up with afterwards.

10. CAMBRIDGE

by Alice from Adventures of Alice

Cambridge is beautiful all year round and the winter is no exception. Although Cambridge isn’t quite as busy as cities such as London, there are plenty of fun activities to participate in.

This includes the North Pole at Parkers Piece, which is Cambridge’s own Winter Wonderland. Here, they have an outdoor ice rink and an outdoor bar serving delicious ales, beers and cider. There’s plenty there for children too.

Another fun Christmas activity is the Christmas light switch-on, which is usually done by a minor celebrity. The event is held in Market Square, generally starting at 11 am, and includes rides, games, and stalls with food, drinks and gifts. For a peaceful stroll away from the crowds, you can visit Cambridge University – a beautiful, historical set of buildings – or the Botanic Gardens.

Cambridge is fantastic in winter and definitely well worth adding to your list of places to visit in UK in Winter. If you plan on driving there, it might be worth researching off-street parking or park and ride beforehand, as there is often not much on-street parking available.

by Paul from Anywhere We Roam

Having educated 28 prime ministers, a few US presidents, 12 saints and Kate Beckinsale, there’s no denying that history oozes from the wonky laneways of Oxford. But the honey-hued old centre takes on a magical ambience when frosted in snow, making it a superb winter escape in the UK.

There’s a host of beautiful things to do in Oxford that are even more atmospheric in winter. Visit one of the many colleges, quiet from the lack of visitors and the absence of students. Stroll the Christmas markets; shop in the Covered Market; or visit a world-class museum such as the Ashmolean.

Oxford in Winter beautiful UK holiday locations

Have a pint in a traditional old English pub – The Turf Tavern was a favourite of Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke – and cosy up to an open fireplace as dusk descends on the city. Before hitting Oxford’s fabulous nightlife, experience Evensong in the grandeur of a college chapel.

Oxford takes on something of a hibernation in the middle of winter, but it’s still one of the best places to visit in UK in January or February. The top-quality attractions remain open so that you can enjoy the best of the charming city at your own pace, without the crowds.

12. THE COTSWOLDS

by Tracy from UK Travel Planning

The Cotswolds is one of the most beautiful regions in England, so there’s no question of it being among the top UK Winter holiday destinations.

It’s not just because it’s so picturesque – with its rolling hills and quaint villages, each one more lovely than the last. Nor is it just because you can indulge your love for cosy pubs and fresh cream teas. The real reason to visit this time of year? The snow!

It may be cold outside, but there’s nothing like a walk through the frost-covered countryside or a cosy night by an open fire. And the Cotswolds are just waiting for you to discover them.

The beautiful villages of Stanton, Bourton-on-the-Water and Moreton-in-Marsh are the perfect places to visit as winter sets in. Each has a character all of its own – from quaint boutiques to old coaching inns – and some have lovely walking trails right on their doorstep.

The Cotswolds has something for everyone – from families and couples to foodies and history buffs. And there’s no question that it’s one of the best UK Winter breaks. During the winter, the Cotswolds are quieter, making it the perfect time to book a stay and get a real glimpse of what makes this place so special.

by Claire from Go South West England

With stunning buildings and buzzing Christmas markets, Bath is one of the best places to visit in England in winter. This Somerset city is popular all year round – it is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Status, Roman Baths and Georgian buildings – but there’s something special about Bath in winter.

You can still enjoy all of Bath’s main attractions, including the Roman Baths, afternoon tea at the Pump House, and the historic cathedral, in the winter, and if you get a brisk sunny day, it’s perfect for a walk to see the iconic crescent and circus roads. You could also walk up to the Bath Skyline to get an epic view of the city.

In November and December, the Bath Christmas markets descend on the town. The city is lit up in gorgeous Christmassy scenes, and you can purchase plenty of Christmas presents from the local vendors – and warm up afterwards with a mug of mulled wine!

Another way to warm up is in the fabulous Bath Thermae Spa. This spa features three pools, four different types of steam rooms and the famous heated rooftop pool, where you can catch a lovely view over the city centre.

Bath no longer has its famous Christmas market in January and February, but it has fewer tourists, and all the attractions are open. So it’s well worth spending a wintery weekend in Bath !

by Sophie Nadeau from solosophie.com

Exeter can be found in the county of Devon and is actually the capital city of this English region! Home to a Norman cathedral, lovely quay, and plenty of historic streets, the Devonian city is most famous for its location close to the beach and the ancient Dartmoor National Park, as well as its plethora of wonderful eateries and pubs.

As such, the city makes for a great base from which to explore the wider region. Some of the best day trips from Exeter include heading to the seaside resort towns of Teignmouth and Sheldon or alternatively heading inland towards the quaint market town of Topsham.

Those searching for a cosy England winter getaway will surely find it in one of the many boutique hotels and comfortable cottages in and around Exeter. Not to mention that the green in front of the cathedral is home to the Exeter Christmas Market each winter during the festive season.

The annual event is touted as one of the best Christmas markets in the UK and sees dozens of stalls set up on Cathedral Green, selling everything from hot snacks and toasty beverages to bespoke and unique Christmas gifts.

Elsewhere in the city, renovations (particularly at the Guildhall and Princesshay shopping areas) mean that the city is fantastic for Christmas shopping, whether you’re searching for a gift for a loved one or a treat for yourself.

Exeter beautiful Christmas Markets in the UK

15. RYE AND CAMBER SANDS

by Annabel from Smudged Passport

The characterful East Sussex town of Rye is lovely to visit at any time of the year but visit in midwinter for maximum atmosphere.

The narrow cobblestone lanes are often shrouded with mist from the nearby sea, and it’s easy to imagine smugglers sneaking into the timber-framed old inns which line some of the streets. Ensure you stop for a drink at the Mermaid Inn, dating back to the 15th century. It’s the type of old English pub you’d imagine spotting ghosts in.

If the weather is fine, there’s no better place for a winter walk than Camber Sands, which is just a five-minute drive from Rye. This vast expanse of sand offers far-reaching coastal views, and the beach is backed by sand dunes.

Back in Rye, following a walk along the beach, the best place to warm up is Knoops – a shop and café dedicated to hot chocolate. There’s a great range of other shops to explore and plenty of cute cafes and restaurants.

If you’d like to learn more about the history of Rye and how it was once an important harbour – but is now surrounded by land – head to the little museum at Ypres Tower. Part of the original defensive walls, there’s a good view from here and exciting artefacts.

Mermaid Inn best places to stay in Winter UK

16. WHITSTABLE

by Joanna from The World in my Pocket

Whitstable is one of the most beautiful destinations on the coast of Kent. It’s one of the best winter destinations UK offers because the number of tourists in the cold season is relatively low, and you can explore the town in its quiet time.

Whitstable is famous all over the country for its fresh oysters, but few people know that the season for native oysters is actually Winter. The native oyster season starts at the end of September and ends in early April.

One of the best things to do in Whitstable during a staycation is exploring the harbour. Being a working harbour, you can see the local fishermen bringing in the catch of the day in the morning before tasting the fresh fish cooked at the restaurants around the water.

Whitstable is also a pretty bohemian town, with many galleries displaying the work of local artists. You can visit the galleries and buy a painting if you want a unique souvenir. In Whitstable, you will also find several independent shops where local producers and crafters display and sell their work.

Whilst you won’t be able to sunbathe in winter, you can still walk along the beautiful Whitstable beach and enjoy the pretty old fishermen’s houses along the promenade.

Whitstable sunny Winter holidays in England

Read more: The best places to visit in Winter in Europe

There are so many beautiful UK Winter holiday destinations to choose from, and I hope this list of the best places to visit in the UK in Winter helped inspire your next staycation! Happy travels!

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Christmas markets in Bath or Belfast would be fun to check out. Christmas in Edinburgh also sounds amazing!

Love this curated list of the best UK destinations for a winter holiday! All of them look fabulous!

Oxford and the Cotswolds are my favorite 🤩 so beautiful. And, I can’t wait to get back to England and explore more. Thanks for all these brilliant ideas

I love a good winter beach day so I think I’d head straight to Rye if I were in the UK in the winter! (Especially if there’s rye bread too!)

This is a great selection of places to visit. I particularly enjoyed the Cairngorms one winter – the area is so wild and cold! Loved it. Thanks for all the inspiration.

I love that you shared a mix of nature and cities in this list of winter destinations in the UK! So many beautiful places to explore!

This year is my first time spending winter in the UK so I’ll definitely be checking some of these out! Thanks for putting this together 🙂

Such a great selection of places to visit in the UK. Your pictures are so pretty I’m almost convinced that winter is a good time to visit the UK but I’d be coming from a hot Sydney summer? Airfares are cheap that time of year & a white Christmas would be fun. Dublin, Bath & Harrowgate are especially appealing!

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 11 Places to Visit in the UK in Winter

When people think of winter travel, the UK isn’t usually the first country that comes to mind. But there are a lot of places that come into their own in the cooler months, and many advantages to visiting at this time of year. If you’re open to the idea, read on for A Lady in London’s best places to visit in the UK in winter.

Visiting the UK in Winter

One of the great things about visiting the UK in winter is that not many people do. The prospect of fewer crowds is a prime benefit, not to mention shorter wait times, better deals, and easier booking opportunities.

Furthermore, as overtourism becomes an increasing problem around the world, visiting in the winter months is a good sustainable travel practice.

And if you’re worried about the weather, you shouldn’t be. The British weather is unpredictable year-round, so you’re just as likely to get caught in a downpour in July as in December.

If you have the right clothes (my winter packing list can help), you’ll be fine in the cold.

To top it off, there are better travel deals and discounts. Winter means more attractive prices on everything from transport to accommodation, and there’s often increased availability and sweeter last-minute deals than in the high season.

Places to Visit in the UK in Winter

My list of places to visit in the UK in winter comes from personal experience. I’ve visited all of the places on this list in winter, and can personally vouch for how much I enjoyed them. If you go, I hope you will as well.

First on my list is York . This city in the north of England is one of the prettiest in the UK at any time of year. But it’s particularly good to visit in the winter for a few reasons.

First, York is home to some amazing Christmas markets . From St Sampson’s Square to Coppergate and the Shambles, the city is packed with chalets selling all kinds of Christmas gifts and food.

Second, York gets crowded at other times of year, and winter is a good time to go to avoid the summer throngs.

Walking the city walls, exploring the narrow Snickelways, and taking in York Minster are all easier to do in the winter when there are fewer people around.

Third, York looks magical in winter light. Between all the Christmas lights and the soft sunlight, the city glows in winter.

2. Isle of Skye

Next up is Scotland’s Isle of Skye . This island in the Hebrides is one of the best places to visit in the UK in winter for many reasons.

One is that sunrise takes place late enough that you don’t have to set an early alarm to see it. With deep pinks and purples and the backdrop of snow-capped Cuillin Hills, it’s spectacular.

Another great thing about visiting the Isle of Skye in winter is that there’s beautiful light. From the Fairy Pools to Talisker Bay, it makes visiting and photographing the island a treat.

Seasonal scenery is another reason to visit in winter. The Black Cuillins are atmospheric with a dusting of snow on top, and thick frost on the ground looks like shimmering diamonds when the sun hits it.

Add to that the fact that in the summer months the Isle of Skye suffers from insects like midges and issues like overtourism, and winter is the time to go.

3. Birmingham

Birmingham is another of the best places to visit in the UK in winter. This underrated city in England is home to beautiful historic and contemporary architecture, a world-class art museum, and good shopping.

But there are a few things that make it more attractive to visit in winter than at other times of year.

I’ll start with the Birmingham Christmas markets . These festive markets fill all the main streets and squares in the city center and bring Birmingham to life with chalets, gifts, giant Christmas pyramids, Santas, and more.

There’s also a great ice skating rink in Birmingham. Set against the backdrop of the stunning contemporary library, it’s a fun place to get out and embrace the winter spirit.

For something calmer, Rye is one of my favorite places to visit in the UK in winter. This town in England’s East Sussex is not only one of the prettiest towns in Britain , but also a cozy retreat in the colder months.

Winter is a great time to be in Rye because there are fewer people around, the town’s pretty streets are easier to explore and photograph, and there are lots of warming pubs to tuck into.

On top of that, the Mermaid Inn in Rye is rumored to be haunted, so it’s the perfect place to indulge in a winter ghost story or two.

Rye is also near beaches like Camber Sands, and on a clear day it’s fun to take a winter walk along the shore.

5. Edinburgh

Back to cities, Edinburgh is one of the top places to visit in the UK in winter. The Scottish capital is full of festive cheer during the colder months, and it has one of the biggest and best New Year’s Eve celebrations in Britain.

Edinburgh also has great Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and seasonal decorations in the winter. From Princes Street Gardens to George Street and St Andrew Square, the city center fills with the sights and sounds of the season.

But back to New Year’s Eve. The Edinburgh Hogmanay celebrations ring in the new year with a multi-day extravaganza that includes fireworks, a torchlight procession, a street party, and more.

6. Brecon Beacons

Out in the countryside, the Brecon Beacons are an ideal place to go for a winter weekend in Wales . This area and its national park are perfect for long winter walks that culminate in cozy pubs.

There are lots of walking and hiking trails around the area, and the scenery is as full of adorable sheep and ponies as it is waterfalls and spectacular peaks.

Winter is a great time to go to the Brecon Beacons because it’s far less crowded than summer and there’s something extra rewarding about taking a long country walk in the cold and coming home to a warm fire.

Over in Northern Ireland, Belfast is one of the ideal places to visit in the UK in winter. This city has a lot to see and do, and plenty of beautiful countryside around it.

Belfast itself is great in winter for its lively pubs and museums like the Titanic Belfast. There are also lots of cozy restaurants and cafes to warm up in.

Outside the city, the Causeway Coastal Route is good in winter. Places like the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Old Bushmills Distillery are less crowded than in summer months.

And that’s to say nothing of the stunning Dark Hedges, which can be overrun in busier periods.

Back in England, Bath is one of the best places to visit in the UK in winter.

This city is famous for its history as a Roman spa town, and visitors can still take the waters today. It’s a great way to warm up in winter and get into the city’s spirit at the same time.

But there’s more to do in Bath in winter than going to the spa. The city has a beautiful Christmas market, and it’s lovely against the backdrop of the abbey.

There are also a lot of independent shops , restaurants, and cafes in Bath that make perfect places to warm up when it’s cold outside.

And don’t forget the Pump Room. Jane Austen fans will welcome the chance to have tea in the historic surroundings her heroines once frequented.

Bath is also great in winter for the same reason a lot of the other places on my list are: it gets incredibly busy in the summer.

Visiting in winter means fewer crowds and easier conditions for photographing the famous Bath stone buildings around the city.

9. Dartmoor

For someplace moody, look no further than Dartmoor. This national park in England’s Devon is known for its atmospheric fog. The heavy mists that blanket the hillsides are stuff of legends, and visiting in the winter months adds ambiance.

Dartmoor National Park features an ancient landscape with stunning valleys, granite tors, rushing rivers, and rugged scenery.

The area is also famous for its ponies, which have lived in the park for centuries and are part of the fabric of the land.

10. Cotswolds

I love the Cotswolds at any time of year, but this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is one of the best places to visit in the UK in winter for several reasons.

One is that it’s less overrun with crowds than in the summer. Places like Arlington Row in Bibury get extremely busy in July and August, but in December I’ve had the whole street to myself.

Beyond that, the Cotswolds villages are atmospheric in winter. From the larger-than-life topiary hedges in Painswick to the cozy pub in Sapperton, the area exudes charm at this time of year.

And that’s to say nothing of the landscapes, which are moody and atmospheric with everything from mist to morning light.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t include London on my list. The UK capital is a great place to visit in winter.

London comes alive at Christmas , and the city lights up with markets , ice skating rinks , lights , decorations, performances, and more. It’s an amazing place to be during the festive season.

But even after the new year has begun, there are advantages to visiting London in winter .

It’s less crowded, so things like getting theater tickets, booking restaurant reservations, and watching the Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace are much easier.

Attractions are less busy, so there are fewer (if any) waits to get into or onto them. And places like Borough Market are more enjoyable to explore with fewer people around.

Best Places to Visit in the UK in Winter

I hope my list of the best places to visit in the UK in winter has inspired you to get out and see more of the country in the off-season.

I’ve enjoyed my visits to all of these places and I have a feeling you will, too. So wrap up warm and have fun exploring.

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Best Places to Visit in Winter in the UK

Winter in the United Kingdom transforms the landscape into a magical wonderland, offering visitors a unique and enchanting experience. From snow-covered mountains to charming historic towns, the UK has a diverse range of destinations that come alive during the winter season. In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the best places to visit in the UK during the winter, ensuring you have a memorable and unforgettable experience.

1. Isle of Skye

One of the best places to travel in the UK during the winter is this island in the Hebrides, for a variety of reasons.

One of them is that sunrise happens at a time when you don’t need to set an early alarm to observe it. It’s breathtaking with its vivid pinks and purples and the snow-capped Cuillin Hills in the background.

The Isle of Skye is fantastic to visit in the winter because of the gorgeous light. It makes traveling to and taking pictures of the island a joy, from the fairy pools to Talisker Bay.

Winter travel is also recommended for the seasonal scenery. With a light covering of snow on top, the black cuillins are ethereal. When the sun shines on thick frost on the ground, it resembles sparkling diamonds.

2. Peak District

The UK’s first national park, one of the most naturally stunning locations to visit in England, is a great spot to get some exercise during the chilly winter months. Avoid the summer crowds and enter an enchanted winter paradise instead.

Many outdoor winter sports, including snowboarding, are available at this national park, but most visitors come to take advantage of the tranquil walks through the Peak District’s world-famous landscape.

Additionally, this region is home to numerous cozy cottages and quaint pubs that are perfect for warming up after a stroll across the Peak District’s hills and valleys.

3. The Pentland Hills

Scald Law is one of numerous peaks that reach a height of 579 meters in this region, which extends south-west from Edinburgh in Europe. Skiing, mountain biking, hillwalking, horseback riding, and even golfing are among the various leisure activities available here. How would I get there? using a bus to travel from the city. Many of them lead to various entrances.

4. Edinburgh, Scotland:

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is a city that truly comes alive in the winter months. The historic streets are adorned with twinkling lights, and the famous Edinburgh Castle stands proudly against the winter sky. The Royal Mile, lined with boutiques and cafes, exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. Don’t miss the world-renowned Hogmanay celebrations, a grand New Year’s festival that includes concerts, street parties, and a spectacular firework display. If you have been to Edinburgh, you must visit Howies Restaurant located next to it.

5. The Lake District, England:

The Lake District, known for its stunning landscapes and picturesque lakes, takes on a different kind of beauty in the winter. Snow-capped peaks, frosty forests, and glistening lakes create a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy activities such as winter walks, exploring charming villages like Ambleside, and savoring local cuisine by cozy firesides.

6. York, England:

The historic city of York is a delight to visit during the winter season. The medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and the iconic York Minster cathedral create a fairytale-like ambiance. Wander through the Shambles, a narrow, timber-framed street that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook. The Christmas markets in York are a must-visit, offering handmade crafts and delicious festive treats.

7. Bath, England:

Bath, with its elegant Georgian architecture and natural hot springs, is a city that oozes charm in the winter. The Roman Baths, where steam rises from the ancient pools, take on an ethereal quality when surrounded by frost-kissed gardens. Enjoy a soak at the Thermae Bath Spa for a truly relaxing experience. The Bath Christmas Market, set against the backdrop of the Bath Abbey, is one of the most picturesque in the country.

8. Snowdonia National Park, Wales:

For those seeking a winter adventure, Snowdonia National Park in Wales offers a breathtaking backdrop. Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, is a popular destination for winter hiking and snow sports. The rugged terrain and stunning vistas provide a unique and invigorating experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

9. Stratford-upon-Avon, England:

The birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon, is a delightful town to explore in winter. The picturesque Tudor-style buildings, the tranquil River Avon, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Attend a Shakespearean play or stroll along the riverbanks for a quintessentially English experience.

Devon is a great spot to travel to in the UK during the winter because of its range of locations. It boasts two coastlines, not just one. Additionally, there are two national parks nearby that offer breathtaking views in every direction.

The best place to take brisk winter hikes and see the park’s wild ponies is Exmoor. The North Devon shoreline also extends within the national park. Here, the charming towns of Lynton and Lynmouth are surrounded by lush emerald woods, rocky walking paths, and cafés and stores that face out onto the sea. The best winter destination is Exeter, a city located in Devon. The yearly Christmas markets draw visitors from all over. Additionally, the church exudes holiday warmth and carols.

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Winter Destinations UK: 14 Best Places To Visit

The days are shorter and the temperatures are dropping, but that doesn’t mean you have to hide away indoors until spring. There are plenty of amazing winter destinations in the UK to explore.

From scenic mountain ranges to lively cities, here are some of the best places to visit during winter.

Bundle up and get ready for an adventure!

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Best place to visit in December

Belfast city at night, Northern Ireland, UK

If you’re looking for a fun-filled destination to travel to in December then the Northern Ireland city of Belfast may be right up your street.

Brimming with lively pubs and bars with fantastic attractions, Belfast is a great location to celebrate the festive season. With temperatures as low as 5 degrees, packing your thermals instead of your bikini is recommended!

Visit Belfast Christmas market for a mulled wine and a browse around the vast array of Alpine-style wooden huts selling handmade Yuletide gifts and home accessories.

Shop for last minute gifts at Victoria Square where you can find popular high street stores such as Mango, Goldsmiths and Tommy Hilfiger. It is also home to Belfast’s one and only Apple store which may come in handy when looking for that perfect present.

The infamous Titanic Belfast museum is worth a visit. Explore the iconic building and dive into the history of Titanic and all those onboard the ship during that fateful time. With places to eat and shop along the way, Titanic Belfast is a great day out for all the family.

Belfast is jam-packed with things to do socially, however the countryside here is simply unmatched. So throw on a pair of hiking boots and explore this beautiful land.

Best Place For Winter Sun

sunset over The Rumps and Pentire Head on the North Coast of Cornwall

Even during the hottest months of the year, the sun is never guaranteed anywhere in the UK, and even more so in the winter. But if you are going to find the sun anywhere in December your best bet is to travel down south.

Cornwall is known for reaching high temperatures during the summer months and even though it will be cold in December, that little bit of sun is good for the soul.

You will find that Newquay is generally a lot quieter than it is in the summer months. The bars and clubs are not as busy and there are less people out and about. But don’t let that stop you from exploring this charming corner of the UK.

Take a wintry walk along iconic Fistral Beach which is known across Europe for its ridiculously good waves. The beach takes on a different persona in the colder months as it changes from a jam-packed tourist spot to an eerily quiet spot paired with harsh winds and crashing waves. An afternoon stroll across this terrifyingly electric beach will most definitely blow away the cobwebs!

Warm yourself up with some delicious pub grub from Lanherne pub and restaurant , serving traditional home cooked food in a friendly setting.

Keep the children entertained with a trip to Blue Reef Aquarium where they will find loggerhead sea turtles, blacktip reef sharks and thousands of vibrant shoals of fish. Book ahead to reserve your spots.

Overall Best Place To Visit in Winter

York is a beautiful place to visit at any time of year. With its stunning architecture, ancient Shambles and sheer selection of pubs, bars and restaurants, you can’t go wrong.

Most people avoid travelling at this time of year so the town is less crowded which is great for visitors as they avoid the hustle and bustle of the busy streets.

Firstly, the York Christmas Markets are a must-do. Begin the festivities with a delicious hog roast bap washed down with a pint of spiced mulled cider before perusing the adorable wooden chalets for unique trinkets and handmade decorations.

Pay a visit to the breathtaking York Minster to see the jaw-dropping interiors of this historic cathedral. The Shambles is possibly the most visited attraction in york in which some buildings date back as far as the 13th century. Dive into the history of these timber-framed buildings that are arguably the best preserved in the world.

Hungry? Have a pit stop at one of the oldest pubs in York, The Old White Swan . The building dates back to the 16th century and is said to be haunted. The tallest man in the world, who stood at a whopping 8 feet tall, was also exhibited here in 1781.

Best Place For A January Break

Lower Slaughter, Gloucestershire, England

When the festive period is over and done with, it is time to get back to reality before the “January Blues” kicks in. And when they do, just book a getaway to the picturesque Cotswolds!

Start the New Year with a mini break to this remarkable area of the UK known for its picture perfect landscape and long, scenic walking trails.

Walking through the Cotswolds is like being in a fairytale with its charming little villages and adorable bridges that cross over miniature waterways. It is a bit like Venice but on a much smaller scale.

Visit Churchill’s birthplace at the outstanding Blenheim Palace. Featured in the popular James Bond film, Spectre , this historic building is filled with lavish interiors and ancient ornaments. Explore the exquisite gardens adorned with climbing roses and ancient trees as you take in the splendour of this magnificent landmark.

Whether you have donned your thermals for a wintry walk or you have spent the day exploring local attractions , there is always time for a spot of Afternoon Tea. The Old Bakery Tea Room offers a wide selection of food and drinks to keep those hunger pangs at bay. Warm your hands with a creamy Belgian hot chocolate or followed by homemade scones with a generous helping of Cornish clotted cream and jam.

Best Place For A Winter City Break

Edinburgh city skyline and castle at night, Scotland

Edinburgh is the perfect place for a fun-filled city break, particularly during the winter months as there is so much to see and do.

Known for its sheer amount of festive activities and wild Hogmanay celebrations, the city of Edinburgh is a great choice if you are looking for an action-packed break.

Visit the Christmas markets at Princes Street Gardens where you will find plenty of festive food and drink, an ice rink, Santa’s Grotto and an exciting children’s funfair. The streets are layered with glamorous decorations and twinkling lights which can be observed while strolling through the cobbled streets. George Street has produced some amazing light displays over the years which are always worth seeing.

Winter isn’t just about Christmas though, so why not dig deep into the fascinating history of the Scottish capital, by enjoying a day out at Edinburgh Castle. There is so much to see here including The Great Hall, the 12th century chapel, the cannons and the dazzling Scottish Crown Jewels. Other Royal attractions include Royal Yacht Britannia and Holyrood Palace. Booking your tickets in advance is strongly advised as these attractions are busy all year round.

Put on your bobble hat and gloves to take a walk along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Attractions include the Museum of Edinburgh and the Scotch Whisky tasting museum – that will warm you up!

Whether you need to shop for Christmas presents or to hit up the January sales, Edinburgh has you covered. With a vast amount of designer and high street stores, you are sure to find what you are looking for. There is no shortage of pubs, bars and restaurants either so treat yourself to a well-deserved meal to celebrate your memorable city break in Edinburgh.

Outdoor Activities

The temperature may be close to freezing but that shouldn’t stop you from getting outdoors to take part in some utterly thrilling activities.

Hike in the Lake District

Derwent Water from Keswick, Lake District National Park

The best things in life really are free. At least they are if you love hiking!

With plenty of marked routes, the Lake District is the perfect place for both experienced and amateur hikers. Whether you are looking for an intense hike or a leisurely stroll, there is a walk for everyone in this picture perfect haven.

Glenridding will take you on a 6.5 mile journey to Howtown where you can see great views of Ullswater and scenic fields and hills. Alternatively, the route from Aira Force to Glenridding will take you on a much shorter walk where you will pass by a stone arch bridge, a waterfall and ancient trees.

The beauty of hiking is that it is enjoyable whatever the weather. Breathing in the fresh countryside air does wonders for the mind and doesn’t cost a penny!

Surf down South

You may need more than just a pair of swimming shorts to go surfing in these sub zero temperatures. Cornwall is renowned for having some of the best waves along the English coastline due to the build-up of low pressure from the Arctic and Atlantic.

Croyde Bay is one of the most popular surfing destinations in the UK where you will find plenty of other surfers as well as surfing lessons and some great local pubs for a spot of lunch afterwards.

Snowboard in Scotland

For a spot of snowboarding, head to Nevis Range Mountain for some serious downhill action. Located in The Highlands, these slopes have 35 ski runs which cross over Britain’s tallest mountain, Ben Nevis.

The most popular ski resort can be found at Cairngorms Mountain. This ski resort has 23 ski runs and can be found in Cairngorms National Park which spans over 1400 square miles and is Britain’s largest National Park.

You don’t have to be an experienced skier to take part as lessons are available at most resorts to teach you the basics. You will probably get a laugh out of it too!

Climb Snowdon

Snowdonia snowcapped mountains and sunset

Snowden is one of the most popular mountains to climb in the UK and is visited all year round. There are six possible routes that will take you to the top of the 1,085 metre summit and the views from the top are definitely worth the climb.

Each route is around seven to nine miles to the top so be prepared for a full day of hiking. Children can take part however, it may not be too enjoyable for them, particularly in low temperatures.

You do not need to have any previous hiking experience and remember to pack a bag with food, drinks, a compass and a map.

Go for a Wintry Dip in Derry

Will you be daring enough to take a dip in the icy waters of Portnahapple? We didn’t think so!

Portnahapple can be found along the scenic coastline of County Derry when taking a walk down Port Path . Here you will find an old natural swimming cove which is sometimes used by visitors in the warmer months.

Port Path is a 6.5 mile trail where you will come across national treasures such as St. Patrick’s Well which according to history, was used to store Holy Water in the Stone Age. You may also stumble upon small stone houses in which ice was once stored during the colder months to preserve salmon when temperatures increased.

National Parks

Booking a winter destination near a National Park ensures you will make the most out of your mini break away from reality. Many parks are open all year round with some great activities for thrillseekers and adrenaline junkies.

The Peak District National Park

Best for: caving.

The Peak District is where you will find the highest natural cavern in the UK. Titan Cave in Castleton was discovered by local pot-holers in 2000 and is a whopping 464 feet from top to bottom. Caving is one of the most popular things to do in Derbyshire and it’s easy to see why.

You can try your hand at caving under the guidance of an expert and all the necessary equipment will be provided for you. All you need to do is join in!

Alternatively, there are many underground formations dotted around the Peak District which you can see by visiting a show cavern. These safe and well-lit caves make for a memorable and informative experience.

Exmoor National Park

Best for: stargazing.

Well known for its vast amount of walking trails, Exmoor National Park has dozens of paths that cater to all fitness levels and is the best place for stargazing.

Exmoor has some of the darkest skies due to minimal light pollution. If you look closely on a cloudless night, you will see the milky way along with magnificent astronomical sights and thousands of twinkling stars.

There is plenty to see on the walking trails such as vast bodies of water and lush countryside. Wildlife such as Red Deer and Ponies can be seen in their natural habitat, grazing lazily and resting. Be careful not to startle these enchanting creatures.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

Best for: coastline walks.

Broadhaven Bay beach on Pembrokeshire Coast in Wales

Get ready for some phenomenal seaside scenery by visiting the Pembrokeshire Coast. Take in the wintry Welsh sun and fresh sea air with a walk along this fantastic trail.

If you look closely you will be able to spot Whales and Dolphins in the ferocious sea below. The cliff tops are great for birdwatching and witnessing the striking sunsets in the early evening.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is one of the smallest in the UK, but don’t let that stop you from exploring the wonderful scenic landscape and magnificent sea views.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

Best for: boating.

In 2002, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs became the first of two Scottish National Parks established by the Scottish parliament.

Rent a boat and cruise the icy waters of Loch Lomond to take in the stunning natural beauty of the Scottish landscape. There are over 30 islands dotted around the loch, so feel free to pay a visit to any one.

“The Trossachs” refers to a romantic area of mysterious woodland, rocky hills and views of the glittering lochs. Enjoy a wintry walk with the wind in your face which shares a link with some of the most famous poets in history including Sir Walter Scott, Coleridge and Wordsworth.

Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve is hauntingly beautiful in the winter months. The bare branches give way to breathtaking views of the surrounding area and you will hear the distinctive call of geese flying high above in the wintry skies.

Winter is a great time to visit for admiring the waddling ducks and elegant swans. There may not be much colour during this time of the year, but the impressive snow-capped mountains and piercing blue skies are enough to make your visit to this National Park an unforgettable experience.

Kat Hi, I'm Kat, an Australian that moved to London in 2013 to start a new adventure. What a roller-coaster that was! I love helping others move to the UK and people explore the world ! I’d be honoured if you’d say, “Thanks!” with a £3 coffee on Ko-fi.

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10 of the best small UK towns for winter breaks

The historic buildings, modern restaurants, cosy pubs and independent shops of these towns banish any notions of a backwater. And they sparkle in the Christmas season – perfect for a weekend break or day trip

Bakewell, Derbyshire

You’d expect the home of the Bakewell pudding to know a thing or two about keeping its visitors cosy and well-fed, and in this attractive market town, you’re never more than a few steps away from a tea room or pub. And to walk off all the cake and ale, the spectacular Peak District is on the doorstep. In the run-up to Christmas, the town will be hosting a traditional Christmas market to coincide with its lights switch-on (26 & 27 Nov) and, new for 2016, a Winter Wonderland event (18-20 Nov and 9-11 Dec, advance tickets £5, under-fives free, bakewellshow.org ), at the Bakewell Showground, with Christmas grotto, craft marquee, reindeer, market stalls, ice rink, funfair and fireworks. For something more sedate, check out the candlelit tours of Haddon Hall (selected dates 7–13 Dec, £22pp), a romantic medieval manor house which has starred in countless films. The nearby Chatsworth Estate (chatsworth.org) always puts on a good display for Christmas, with beautiful Nutcracker-themed decorations in the house, special evening openings and, until 30 Nov, a Christmas market.

Eat/drink The Manners is a traditional stone-built pub a few minutes’ walk from the town centre, serving well-executed pub fare such as local venison with root veg and red wine sauce, and apple and plum crumble. Wyes Waters (Unit 8, Granby Road)is a charming little cafe with gingham table cloths and a great-value menu of homemade pies, sandwiches and cakes.

Shopping Bakewell’s thriving Monday market is always popular and its attractive cobbled courtyards and market square are home to independent shops and galleries. And of course, no visit to Bakewell is complete without a visit to the Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop which will gift-wrap and post sweet treats to anywhere in the world. Out of town, the excellent Chatsworth Estate farm shop is the place to stock up on Derbyshire specialities such as oatcakes, handmade chocolates from family-run business Holdsworth, and bottled ales brewed on the estate.

Stay On the river in the centre of Bakewell, One Castle Street (doubles from £90 B&B), is a quaint B&B in a Grade II listed building, where substantial breakfasts will set you up for a day exploring. Alternatively, three miles out of town, Haddon Grove Farm has 11 attractive holiday cottages in converted farm buildings (from £490 for a four night December break in a cottage for four). There’s a communal games room and indoor heated pool, making it a perfect winter escape for families. Cottages sleep between two and 10. Joanne O’Connor

Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire

Bradford on Avon, the town bridge over the river Avon in the quaint Wiltshire town

This pint-size town deserves more attention than it gets. Its pretty Georgian houses and former textile mills frame streets lined with small independent shops and cafes. An ancient bridge straddles the Avon at its heart and, just beyond the town’s striking Tithe Barn, a towpath follows one of the prettiest stretches of canal in the country. It’s a half-hour walk to Avoncliff, with its 18th-century aqueduct or a longer nine-mile hike to Bath, but there are trains back to Bradford from both. The first weekend in December sees a Christmas Floating Market (on Facebook) along the Bradford stretch of the canal (expect local crafts, carols, mulled wine and roast chestnuts). For evening entertainment the Wiltshire Music Centre puts on quality classical, jazz and folk concerts: December’s performers include Swedish-Brazilian-Slovenian trio Elda .

Eat/drink Dining pubs are the order of the day in Bradford, with several cosy firesides to choose from. The best is the chic Bunch of Grapes , whose owners have brought the concept of village bar bistros from south-west France to south-west England. Smoked and brined poussin cooked in a beer can is a speciality, but there’s also a feast of small plates: cheese beignets, homemade Charentais sausage, rabbit rillettes, and mixed leaves with preserved lemon, mint, toasted hazelnuts and feta. For a more Spanish accent, Pablo’s Tapas has good jamón, manchego and gambas. For a pint of Rusty Lane ale (from the Kennet & Avon Brewery ) in eccentric but cosy surroundings, head to the Lock Inn and sup by the fire surrounded by a squall of vintage advertising signs.

Shopping Start at just-opened Silver Street Studio (on Facebook) for scarves, ceramics and spoons from British makers. Further down the road, independent wine store Ruby Red sells Somerset Pomona (a moreish cider brandy) and beers from local microbrewery Kettlesmith. Then wander through the quaint Shambles, past posh pet shop Fetch , to The Cheese Shop at 5 Market Street for chutneys and cheeses from local maker In a Pickle . Finally, stroll past arts co-operative Made in Bradford , over the bridge and right along the towpath to the art, pottery and antiques stores of Tithebarn Workshops (tithebarnartscrafts.co.uk).

Stay Timbrells Yard (doubles from £95 B&B) calls itself a gastropub with rooms but feels more like a cool provincial hotel, with a cafe-bar, a restaurant overseen by ex-River Cottage chef Tom Blake, and chic bedrooms. It’s a five-minute walk from the station. The foodie George pub is a 15-minute walk out of town and has two one-bedroom flats (from £110 B&B). Families might prefer the Georgian Lodge (sleeps four from £110 a night), a two-bedroom flat beside the town’s bridge, with green velvet sofas, painted shutters and free parking. Rhiannon Batten

Shrewsbury, Shropshire

Shrewsbury offers a good idea of what London might have looked like without the ravages of the Great Fire. Almost looped by the river Severn, Shropshire’s county town (and birthplace of Charles Darwin) is home to more than 650 listed buildings, many of them half-timbered Tudor or Jacobean marvels, some of them – including its castle – medieval. Its higgledy-piggledy streets and elegant riverside parks aren’t stuck in the past, however. A vibrant music and arts scene makes this compact town a dynamic weekend destination. On the second weekend of December, Shrewsbury Winterfest will involve festive crafts and carols in the Quarry park, a gingerbread-spiced food trail around the market and a ring of Christmas trees at the circular St Chads church.

Eat/drink Shrewsbury’s culinary influences are surprisingly diverse. Ramen bar Momo No Ki does a peppy line in noodles, from a Japanese-inspired miso-crusted salmon version to a Korean BBQ rice noodle salad. Also good is House of Yum , a Thai streetfood cafe in the covered market that vies with neighbour The Bird’s Nest to be the town’s best lunch spot. For veggie comfort food (parsnip and butterbean soup, beetroot and chocolate cake) there’s The Good Life in Barracks Passage, off Wyle Cop. The Bakehouse does spiced plum danishes and other seasonal pastries, while Avatar serves refined Indian and Nepalese food courtesy of a chef formerly from the Oberoi and Taj Hotels. Chicken momos come with tomato and sesame dipping sauce, and Gurkha lamb is spiked with red chilli, shallots, ginger and coriander. For more local flavours, head just out of town for a steak and oxtail pie or trio of pork with black kale at the Haughmond Hotel in Upton Magna, which also has a small farm shop and cafe. On Friday and Saturday nights, there’s a pop-up supper at coffee shop Ginger & Co (message for bookings) in the town centre. Or hunker by the open fire at the Golden Cross . With its mullioned windows, damson walls, theatrical table settings and soft lighting, this “oldest pub in Shrewsbury” is magical in winter and the cooking is adept. Classic dishes include confit duck and venison fillet. For a pint The Three Fishes is a good bet: stop in at neighbouring Pengwern Books (1 Fish Street) then enjoy your purchases over a guest ale from the Salopian Brewery or the Three Tuns.

Shopping The main road , Wyle Cop, sweeps into town with a flourish of independent stores in overhanging Tudor buildings. They include Appleyards deli (at no 85), kitchenware shop Cooking Kneads (no 3), wine store Tanners (no 26) and clothing and accessories stores Oberon and Hibiscus . The town’s market hall on Claremont Street is far more impressive than its brutal 1960s exterior promises, with great local produce.

Stay The Lion & Pheasant (doubles from £115 B&B) breathed new life into Shrewsbury’s hotel scene when it opened, bringing a dose of soft-edged Scandi style, with exposed timbers, pale grey paint and glowing candles – to what had once been a car dealer’s depot. Still going strong six years on, it offers self-catering as well as rooms and a stylish restaurant – ideal if you want a cocktails-and-gin-cured-salmon kind of evening. Cheaper is B&B Hardwick House (doubles from £85 B&B), a fine Georgian home just inside the town walls with wood panelling, dainty antique armchairs and a peaceful walled garden (have afternoon tea by the fire in the summerhouse). RB

Corbridge, Northumberland

Corbridge, a small, popular town on the banks of the River Tyne in Northumberland

With its ancient stone houses, market cross, shops, pubs and banks, this Northumberland village, should surely be reclassified as a town. The fact it has so much infrastructure is thanks to its past as a crossroads on busy north-south and east-west routes, from coaching days to the later half of the 20th century. Though the busiest roads now bypass its heart, Corbridge (see visitcorbridge.co.uk ) is very well-connected: half an hour by car (or train) from Newcastle, 50 minutes from Carlisle and two hours from Edinburgh and Leeds. Following serious flooding last winter, much repair work has been done to restore the village’s spirit as well as its bones. There’s good walking along the banks of the Tyne, and trips back in time at Coria, the remains of Corbridge Roman Town just south of Hadrian’s Wall. Medieval Aydon Castle is also worth seeing on summer visits (it closes October-April).

Eat/drink Restaurant Il Piccolo is known for its pizzas and gelato, though you can go the full Italian hog, from pan-fried sardines to spaghetti with homemade meatballs. For coffee and a slice of homemade treacle tart, there’s Watling Coffee House , while the coffee shop up the road at Activ Cycles (both on Facebook) is a great spot for breakfast or lunch (bacon and cheese crumpets, Moroccan lamb wraps, coconut and butternut squash soup). Walkers could pick up a beetroot bread sandwich or Northumbrian pasty from Grants Bakery , or a DIY deli lunch from The Corbridge Larder . For dinner by the fire, head to the Angel of Corbridge for potted shrimp, wood pigeon or venison ragu. There’s also a fish and chip shop, Angelfish , in the courtyard behind.

RE store from counter, RE Found Objects, Corbridge, Northumberland

Shopping Corbridge punches above its weight when it comes to shopping, with kitchenware, antiques, fashion, shoe and jewellery shops. Two of the best are dynamic independent Forum Books (8 Market Place, children’s books at 20 Watling Street), and the only walk-in branch of the cult mail-order homewares store RE in Bishop’s Yard. From tiny spoons in a rainbow of shades to kitsch pompom Christmas decorations and light shades made from recycled jelly moulds, it’s perfect present-hunting territory. The village shops stay open late on 5 Dec for Corbridge Christmas Late Night Shopping and stalls jostle for space in Market Place alongside carol singers.

Stay A minute’s walk from the railway station (which is over the river half a mile from the village), dog-friendly Dyvels Inn (doubles from £75 B&B) was refurbished after the flooding and now has four comfortable guest rooms. In the evening, order a pint of Pennine Pale (from nearby Allendale Brewery), a trio of Northumberland sausages with mash and onion gravy and dine by the open range. Or, try 22a Hill Street (from £220 for two nights), a two-bedroom self-catering apartment above a shop in the centre of town. RB

Melrose, Scottish Borders

Last year’s rebirth of the Borders Railway has opened up an easy, not to mention scenic, route to Melrose, the pick of the trim Borders market towns. Melrose’s lineage stretches back to the Romans and its romantically ruined Cistercian abbey is home to Robert the Bruce’s heart. It’s a place for hikes in the Eildon Hills , frost-kissed strolls along the salmon-rich Tweed and a visit to Abbotsford the remarkable home Sir Walter Scott built on its banks. Melrose also does a good line in independent shops, cosy pubs and, if you are lucky, the hills that Scott so loved will be sporting a dusting of snow.

Eat/drink Foodie specialities include Borders lamb, smoked Tweed salmon (local producer Teviot is superb) and the sweet, fruity Selkirk bannock. The Henderson family runs Burts , a hotel on the Market Square with a relaxed bistro and a more formal restaurant. Borders lamb is the star in both. The cafe at Scott’s house, Abbotsford, is an ideal lunch option, with braised brisket or smoked salmon on the menu, as well as views down to the writer’s grand mansion.

Shopping The villagers who flock from Melrose’s hinterland to do their shopping are catered for with a brace of butchers, a fishmonger, antique shops and a sprinkling of other small independent businesses. A cosy jumper or cashmere scarf from Abbey Mill makes a good Christmas present. Abbey Wines (17 Market Square) is the place for a special bottle of whisky (Glenkinchie is the local malt), while the Country Kitchen offers great additions to a festive cheeseboard from Kelso’s Brenda Leddy (of Stichill Jerseys , a runner-up in BBC Radio 4’s Food and Farming Awards).

Stay Burts (see above) is also a good stylish bolthole with a roaring fire to sip a wee dram by. It is offering a winter special for £146pp for a two-night break including dinner each night . A fun option for those with a car or bikes is Roulotte Retreat (two-night stay for two is £250). This adults-only glampsite has seven gloriously furnished Gypsy-style caravans dotted around a meadow. All have wood-burning stoves and two also have wood-fired hot tubs, for cosy readings of Scott’s Waverley novels – despite your frosty hair. Robin McKelvie

Totnes, Devon

This riverside town, on the Great Western Railway main line and National Express’s Plymouth coach route, has a glut of independent shops and cafes and more listed (Norman, medieval and Tudor) buildings than any town of comparable size. These make a photogenic backdrop for its Christmas street markets (Tuesdays 6, 13 and 20 Dec, till late). Dining options are not extensive, but a handful of newish openings have raised the bar for beer, coffee and gastronomy.

Eat/drink The best coffee is found at The Curator (2 The Plains), where baristas serve single-estate brews and wholemeal, fruity, not-too-sweet cakes. Upstairs is Curator Kitchen , a “modern osteria” opened in March 2015 and offering excellent Italian fare (set dinner £30). Ten minutes’ walk up Fore Street is family-run Jano , another Italian restaurant, which makes its own pastas, imports fine meats and cheeses, and does set menus from £13. Rumour boasts a family-friendly atmosphere and good burgers. The Totnes Brewing Company , which opened late in 2015 and recently expanded, is the cosiest drinking den in town, with a dozen draught and lots of bottled craft beers. Look out for New Lion ales, a local venture that resuscitated an extinct brand. The Pandit IPA is fruity.

Shopping Totnes is a good place for Christmas food shopping. Riverford Farm , the award-winning organic producer, recently opened a shop at 8 High Street for fruit and veg, plus local salmon, crab, hams and Sharpham wines. Butcher AW Luscombe has been selling quality Devon lamb and beef since 1788; down the road at no 5, CM McCabe is known for its game. For prezzies, the High Street has enough “stuff” shops to service a city. Standouts include Little Blue Budgie for arty crockery and home furnishings, Greenfibres for pricey, but ethical woollens, Drift for cool vinyl and the Devon Harp Centre if you need a new hobby.

Stay Totnes lacks a boutique hotel. The Royal Seven Stars hotel (doubles from £100 B&B) has homely rooms, is dog-friendly and close to everything. A mile away in Dartington, the 14th-century thatched-roofed Cott Inn (doubles from £95 B&B) is known for its pub grub and has three snug bedrooms (weekend availability limited). Chris Moss

Holt, Norfolk

Light trails from cars passing through the Georgian market town of Holt at Christmas

In summer, this handsome Georgian town heaves with holidaymakers who use it as a base for exploring the beaches of north Norfolk. But in winter, when the crowds are gone and the attractive high street is lit by thousands of fairy lights, it takes on an entirely different character. Shop for presents in the town’s many independent shops, wrap up warm for walks on the seafront at nearby Sheringham, and see thousands of overwintering birds gather on the saltmarshes at Cley and Blakeney. Families might like a steam trip on the North Norfolk Railway, which runs Santa Specials on selected dates in December, or a boat trip to see the seal pups at Blakeney .

Eat/drink The Folly Tea Room in Hoppers Yard serves delicious sandwiches and cream teas in a cosy, vintage-themed setting. The Kings Head pub on the High Street is the place to go for pub classics, such as sausage and mash, slow-roast pork belly and steak-and-ale stew with dumplings.

Shopping Holt is renowned for its independent shops and galleries, many of which are in yards and alleys off the High Street. Don’t miss the excellent Holt Bookshop (10 Appleyard) and the food hall at Bakers & Larners (8 Market Place, ), a family-run department store which has been trading since 1770. Shop for local crafts, gourmet foods and unusual gifts at the Christmas Fair in Holt Hall (26-27 Nov, booking recommended, £2, ), where there will be more than 50 stalls, a huge Christmas tree and a log fire.

Stay Byfords Posh B&B (doubles from £155 B&B) offers 16 comfy and characterful bedrooms (exposed brick-and-flint walls, wooden floors and ceiling beams) above the town’s popular deli and bakery. For stylish and cosy self-catering, the four Cartshed Cottages in the grounds of Sharrington Hall (from £450 for three nights, sleep 4), a Jacobean manor house two miles from the centre of Holt, are hard to beat, with log-burners, roll-top baths and four-poster beds. JO’C

Wells, Somerset

Wells Cathedral with St Cuthbert’s church

OK, one city has snuck into this list, but compact Wells is the smallest city in England, with a small-town feel. It’s gorgeous at any time of year, but in winter it really turns on the charm, with tasteful twinkling lights, a towering Christmas tree and, for the first time this year, a four-day Christmas market with stalls selling gifts, local produce and mulled wine (Market Place, 21-24 Dec). The candlelit carol service at the medieval cathedral (27 Nov) is one of the highlights of the local calendar. The moated Bishop’s Palace and Gardens , which has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years, will also be getting into the Christmas spirit, with workshops on creative gift-wrapping and wreath-making. Wander around the medieval streets, including the perfectly preserved Vicar’s Close, or for something more energetic, climb Tor Hill and join the East Mendip Way for a bracing walk across the hills.

Eat/drink The Good Earth offers wholesome lunches as well as gifts such as Neal’s Yard toiletries and St Eval scented candles from Cornwall. Ensemble , the newest addition to Wells’ dining scene, has already proved a big hit with locals for its simple but well-executed menu with its emphasis on local produce . The two/three-course set lunch for £15/£17.50 is particularly good value.

Shopping As you’d expect from a well-heeled cathedral city with a healthy tourist trade, Wells has more than its share of chichi shops and galleries. Stock up on Somerset cheeses and chutneys at the Queen Street Deli at number 14, last-minute presents and traditional children’s toys at Cadeaux & Co (5 High Street), and retro and vintage clothes, trinkets and furniture at the Wells Trading Post in the 12th-century Priory Mill. In addition to the Christmas market, there will be a Christmas brocante fair in the Market Place (11 Dec) selling antiques, crafts and unusual gifts.

Stay Don’t be put off by the name: Beryl (from £110 B&B) is a gem of a B&B in a Victorian gothic mansion set in parkland on the outskirts of town. Guests are greeted by roaring open fires, old-fashioned (in a good way) hospitality and huge bedrooms that ooze character. JO’C

Saffron Walden, Essex

This medieval market town offers the perfect antidote to the pre-Christmas frenzy. Locals start getting into the spirit on 2 Dec, when the Christmas lights are switched on and Santa takes up residence in his town hall grotto. The beautiful 15th-century parish church, St Mary’s, is the largest in Essex and a suitably atmospheric setting for a carol service (27 Nov). Pack your wellies for walks from the town into the rolling parkland surrounding Audley End , a beautiful Jacobean country house which will be hosting seasonal events, from wreath-making to carol concerts. At Saffron Hall, author Michael Morpurgo will be narrating his Christmas story, The Best of Times , (11 Dec). And if that’s not enough to get you in the mood for Christmas, the Saffron Screen , the town’s indie cinema, will be showing festive classics such as Elf, The Polar Express and It’s a Wonderful Life throughout December

Eat/drink Bicicletta – Coffee con Velo is the town’s first cycling cafe and the perfect pitstop, offering great coffee, wholesome food (poached eggs and avocado on toasted sourdough is a house speciality) and the chance to browse top-brand bikes and cycling gear. The Eight Bells is a cosy pub with log fires, chesterfield sofas, real ales on tap and a dining room in a beautiful 16th-century timber-framed barn.

Cross Keys Hotel, Saffron Walden, Essex.

Shopping Saffron Walden’s twice-weekly market (Tues and Sat) has been held in the town since the 12th century and has stalls selling everything from artisan cheese to vintage tools. Hart’s Books (26 King Street), the town’s much-loved independent bookshop, recently reopened in new premises after an absence of several years.

Stay The Cross Keys restaurant-with-rooms (doubles from £110 B&B) may be housed in a building which dates back some 850 years, but the nine en suite bedrooms are kitted out in a contemporary style, with comfortable beds, iPod docks and freestanding baths or monsoon showers. JO’C

Abergavenny, Monmouthshire

Arts and Crafts market, Abergavenny Market Hall.

At the junction of the rivers Usk and Gavenny, beneath the mountain peaks of Blorenge and Sugar Loaf, near the border between England and Wales, the market town of Abergavenny is a particularly picturesque spot to hole up for a weekend. It’s easy to get to, too, with good road and rail links – and once you’re there, everywhere’s walkable. Without a massive “to-do” list of attractions to tick off, it’s a perfect place to really get away from it all. Wander around the atmospheric ruins of the castle and small museum and climb one of the neighbouring hills to sharpen the appetite and savour some of the finest views in southern Britain.

Eat/drink The Abergavenny Food Festival hosts a one-day Christmas Fair on 11 Dec, with local producers selling their wares, workshops for kids (from Christmas tree decorations to lantern making) plus a musical procession, carol singing and a light parade after dark. The legacy of the renowned food festival may not be obvious on the town’s high street at first glance, but there are some interesting places to eat. For lunch, try the Art Shop and Chapel ; the menu changes, but salmon fishcake, spinach and lovage sauce, and caramelised onion, pea, chorizo and anya potato frittata are favourites. If you’d rather pack a snack and go for a hike, there is an excellent selection of local cheeses (try Gorwydd Caerphilly and Golden Cenarth) and real ales at Marches Delicatessen . For dinner, tuck yourself away in a corner of the Foxhunter’s Bar at the Angel Hotel and watch the locals parade in and out for such delights as glass noodle, pawpaw and peanut salad or Lancashire hot-pot with braised red cabbage. And if you would rather make your food than eat it, spend a day learning to bake with the Abergavenny Baker .

The Angel Hotel (and Foxhunter Bar), Abergavenny

Shopping There’s a decent mix of independent shops dotted between the high-street names, offering some inspired Christmas shopping. Try the Art Shop (8 Cross Street) for everything from drawing accessories to lino-cutting tools, then head next door to the Wool Croft for yarns and fine Welsh wool. The Model Centre (1 Brecon Road) might just have the radio-controlled plane you always wanted. For couture hats, visit Alison Todd ’s award-winning millinery shop (13 Cross Street), and for beautiful Italian shoes try Amanda Jayne ) up the street at no 16. There is also the excellent Cooks Galley (6 Nevill Street) for stylish kitchen supplies.

Stay The Angel Hotel (doubles from £95 room-only) is a historic coaching inn and now the chic heartbeat of the town, with a range of rooms and several neighbouring cottages. Rob Penn

United Kingdom holidays
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10 Best Places to Visit in the UK in Winter

For too long, we’ve mainly thought of travel in terms of summer. But the UK is filled with incredible places to visit, too many to fit into just the summer months. Additionally, travelling in winter is often more budget-friendly and ensures you avoid the crowds and traffic jams. So if you can travel outside of summer, then we strongly urge you to consider it!

Best places to visit in the UK in winter where to go in winter in the UK

1. Lewes, England

Winter in the UK usually peeks around the corner properly for the first time in November. That’s why the charming town of Lewes is first on the list of best places to visit in the UK in November. The town in East Sussex is known mostly for its beautifully preserved medieval streets, historic architecture and rich cultural heritage. The latter is exactly the reason why you should pay this spot a visit in November, as Lewes is mostly famous for its unique and elaborate Bonfire Night celebrations, which are the most renowned in all of the UK.

The town of Lewes is home to multiple Sussex Bonfire Societies, each with its own parade, bonfire and firework display. It's a place with a vibrant and slightly eccentric atmosphere. The people of Lewes take great pride in Bonfire Night and are great at making it quite the spectacle without the event losing its authenticity. So if you’ve always wanted to take part in a deeply rooted British tradition, Bonfire Night in Lewes is the time and the place.

2. The Cotswolds, England

Once Bonfire Night is done and quite literally dusted, pretty much the whole of the UK leaps into the Christmas countdown. That’s why you’re probably looking for the best places to visit in the UK in December next, so you can start soaking up the Christmas atmosphere as soon as possible. You’ve come to the right place! Trying to figure out where to go in winter in the UK, especially in December? The answer is The Cotswolds.

You’re probably familiar with the classic Christmas film ‘The Holiday’, which — let’s be honest — you likely watch each year. This year, why not take a real-life winter stroll past cottages to the likes of the cosy one in which Cameron Diaz bunks up with Jude Law? England doesn’t get cuter than the Cotswolds. Imagine rolling hills, picturesque villages and traditional English pubs, all covered by a little layer of winter frost. There’s nothing quite like warming in front of a roaring log fire with a cup of tea or pint in hand, but doing it in the Cotswolds just adds a little extra charm to the experience.

3. Birmingham, England

Gluhwein, pretzels, flammkuchen and cinnamon sprinkled on literally everything… German Christmas markets really are the best. Here’s a sentence we’d never think we’d write, but you may well find the best Christmas bratwurst in… Birmingham. That’s right, the biggest German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria is found on Victoria Square: the Frankfurt Christmas Market .

4. Bath, England

Can’t get enough of the Christmas glee? Head to the next city that starts with a b! If you’d like to behold the city of Bath in all its glory, then December is the month. If only to catch a glimpse of the enormous Christmas tree right next to the beautifully lit abbey. But the whole city is quite a feast for the eyes, and its golden limestone buildings take on an extra warm glow in the winter light. We highly recommend a little trip to the Thermae Bath Spa in particular. It has an open-air rooftop pool that’s been heated to a lush temperature with thermal springs straight from the earth. Warm up your cold bones in natural warmth, and take in the winter night sky, and the stunning city below.

If soaking under the stars has left you with quite the appetite, move straight from the spa to the grub! Bath is home to numerous cosy tea rooms, cafes and traditional English pubs that form an inviting refuge from the winter chill. Our personal favourite is the classic pie and mash, for which you won't have to look far.

5. Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

We wouldn’t dare leave Cairngorms National Park off a list of best places to visit in the UK in winter. It’s also on our list of the best places to visit in the UK in autumn , so if you’re up to date on those then we’re sorry to repeat ourselves, but boy do we love this place! Cairngorms National Park is a stunning destination throughout the whole year, but it holds a particular charm during the winter months.

The quaint village of Braemar is the heart of the park and a wonderful base from which to embark on winter activities such as winter hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Warm right back up in the village’s cosy pubs, in which you can enjoy traditional Scottish cuisine and locally brewed ales in front of the fire.

Check out our itinerary for driving the snow roads scenic route whilst in the Cairngorms. As the name of this itinerary suggests, winter is the best time to get the best views on this drive. It’s then that the park's peaks are mostly likely to be covered in a thin layer of snow, making the contrast with the dark rock formations of the surroundings truly striking. If you’re on a road trip, you’ll also find ample options for pitching your motorhome here. Especially as we’ve rounded up the best campsites in the Cairngorms for you.

Photo by Jonatan Pie on Unsplash

6. Cambridge, England

Speaking of light shows, the beauty of the darker months is that in Britain, we love lighting them right back up again. In many cities, this is done in quite an artful way, such as light shows or even light festivals. One we’d like to highlight, pun intended, in particular, is Cambridge Botanical Lights .

7. The Isle of Skye, Scotland

That the Isle of Skye is beautiful isn’t up for debate. But if you haven’t seen it in winter, you have seen nothing yet. The Isle of Skye is one of the best places to visit in the UK in December, as its natural beauty is amplified in the winter. Rugged mountains, dramatic cliffs and serene lochs really do look even more stunning against a backdrop of snow and frost. If you’re into winter photography, then this is the place for you. There’s something magical and enchanting about Scottish landscapes in winter light — but do plan your trip well, as there’s not a lot of it in wintertime.

Photo by K B on Unsplash

8. Dartmoor National Park, England

The only place in England that officially allows wild camping, that’s what Dartmoor National Park was long known as. Wild camping in Dartmoor has always been a key driver for lovers of the outdoors to visit the area, until a wealthy local landowner won a court case on the quest to ban it earlier this year. Luckily the national park authority won a widely supported court appeal which allowed wild camping in Dartmoor once again .

9. Isle of Wight, England

The Isle of Wight is a captivating destination for many, and a long-time favourite for those seeking a relaxed retreat to escape the bustle of the British mainland. But even on the diamond-shaped isle, the crowds can add up in the summertime, which can result in quite the opposite experience. In winter, however, the thinning crowds make way for one specific kind of visitor: wildlife enthusiasts.

And with good reason. The island is a haven for birdwatchers in winter, as many migratory birds flock to the island in search of a milder climate. The island experiences a gentler winter than many other parts of the UK due to several geographical and meteorological factors, making it a comfortable place to visit in wintertime for people as well. Thanks to its sunny, warmer-than-average weather the island’s also home to plenty of exotic plants, which is why it is often nicknamed the ‘Garden Isle’. Winter is also the best time to spot seals, dolphins and other marine life from the shores, or from the water on a guided boat tour.

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

10. Pembrokeshire, Wales

The UK coastline spans more than 11,000 miles, so it wouldn’t be right to conclude this list of best places to visit in the UK in winter without mentioning another proper coastal destination. If we had to choose one of our favourite coastal destinations to visit in wintertime specifically, it would have to be Pembrokeshire. This wild stretch of Welsh land is dotted with some of the most charming villages. They have a completely different feel to them when they’re not overflowing with summer crowds, and the same goes for some of the most noteworthy historic sites in the country. The region is especially known for its warm and welcoming hospitality, and it’s very unlikely you’ll meet a local who isn’t eager to share their love for the region.

Photo by Carl Jorgensen on Unsplash

Travel shouldn’t be restricted to summer, and with these 10 best destinations to visit in the UK in winter, it doesn’t have to be. Experience the joy of travelling outside of peak season, and we promise, you’ll never look back. Don’t let the cold hold you back. On Goboony you can hire plenty of vehicles that are winter-proof, complete with a heater and hot water.

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11 of Britain’s best winter beaches for a bracingly beautiful break

Experience the magic of Britain's wildly beautiful coastline without the crowds

Turn your collars up to the wind, wrap up warm and explore silky sands, rugged coastlines, clifftop views, wildlife-rich rock pools and picturesque coastal paths – all with the added drama and atmospheric beauty of unpredictable weather.

The UK's beaches boast another level of stirring beauty in winter, and there's nothing like the promise of a post-walk local ale or warming hot chocolate at a cosy old pub to enhance the trip.

Head to Northumberland for stretches of dune-backed golden sands overlooked by medieval castles and ruins for a romantic, far-flung and magically eerie escape; the beauty of Bamburgh is almost unsurpassed. Cornwall is king for blending soft sands and clifftop vistas with foodie heaven; Harbour Cove near Padstow is especially pretty in winter.

There's fossil-hunting and quiet coves galore over at North Yorkshire 's sweeping Robin Hood's Bay. And in Wales , one of the UK's most beautiful beaches, Rhossili Bay, truly comes to life in winter's bleak beauty.

From Suffolk to Scotland , we've picked out Britain's best winter beaches - and where to stay while you're there. Who said summer had to hog all the fun?

Durdle Door, Lulworth, Dorset

The Jurassic Coast is a 95-mile long World Heritage Site stretching from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset. One of the most breathtakingly beautiful sections is the natural limestone arch and beach at Durdle Door.

Catch epic sunsets and sunrises and, around two weeks either side of the winter solstice, you can even see the sun emerging on the horizon right through the arch. Don't forget to take the 2km walk along the cliffs to another epic UK winter beach, Lulworth Cove.

Where to stay: Drop your bags off look forward to a spot of luxury at the Summer Lodge Country Hotel , around a 40-minute drive inland.

Robin Hood's Bay, North Yorkshire

Yorkshire makes for a revitalising getaway at any time of the year, but it really comes to life in winter. One of Britain's best winter beaches has to be Robin Hood's Bay, offering panoramic clifftop views. It's also a brilliant spot for fossil-hunting, and exploring the rock pools looking for little signs of life, like crabs and shrimps. If you're feeling brave, wait until the tide is out and visit the hidden cove of Boggle Hole.

Where to stay: The homely Victoria Hotel offers clifftop views over the bay, where you can enjoy local ales or afternoon tea with an ocean vista. It's also just 10 minutes' drive from historic Whitby for a varied winter break.

Bamburgh Beach, Bamburgh, Northumberland

This wild stretch of white sand is even more captivating in winter. Overlooked by the awe-inspiring presence of Bamburgh Castle on one side, and views out to the Farne Islands (home to puffins and grey seals) on the other, it's surrounded by intoxicating views. The stunning stretch of sand is also dog-friendly, perfect for wow-factor walks.

Where to stay: Bamburgh Castle Inn at nearby Seahouses is a cosy spot to warm up after a salty sea air stroll, just 10 minutes from Bamburgh Castle.

Looe Beach, Looe, Cornwall

This charming old town is home to narrow lanes packed with quaint shops that would have been frequented by smugglers back in the 18th century bringing rum to the craggy coastline. The East Looe Beach is a beauty that sits right in front of the old town. It's a fantastic UK winter beach in a scenically-blessed area, which also offers fabulous walks thanks to a chunk of the South West Coast Path passing through.

Where to stay: Talland Bay Hotel is a dreamy place to relax, offering clifftop views, overlooking pretty Talland Bay. It's a mere 10 minutes' drive to Looe, but you can walk there along the coastal path in around 40 minutes. The hotel is also close to the charming town of Polperro.

READ OUR REVIEW AND BOOK

Holkham Beach, Norfolk

The magic of Holkham Beach lies in its endless swathes of golden sand backed by pine-clad dunes. Rich in wildlife and welcoming to four-legged friends, it's an animal-lover's paradise. A visit in winter is a life-affirming affair, filled with wind-whipped walks and big skies that seemingly go on forever. Head to the Holkham Beach Cafe for heart - and hand- warming hot chocolates with a view.

Where to stay: Set up base at The Hoste Arms , a cosy outpost in the beautiful Georgian town of Burnham Market, just a 20 minute drive from Holkham.

Rhossili Bay, Gower Peninsula, Wales

Often featuring high on many best beaches in the world lists, Rhossili Bay is certainly one of Britain's top winter beaches. Three miles of flour-fine beach sand encompass the famous Worms Head landmark. Rhossili Bay is part of the Gower Coast Path, so expect excellent routes with captivating views - and do bring the dog. And, if you're lucky you may even dolphins or basking seals enjoying the area too.

Where to stay: The King's Head Inn is close to the beach and is a comfortable base for walkers.

Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth, Cornwall

This popular Blue Flag beach is a wide arc of golden sand that nabs itself a place on the UK's best winter beaches list for a number of reasons. Firstly, escape the crowds in winter for a more tranquil experience; secondly, the wonderful Gylly Beach Cafe, offering soulful views and seasonal produce, is open all year round; it's just 15 minutes' walk from Falmouth for easy access to its bric-a-brac stores and tea rooms; and it offers a lovely walk along the South West Coast Path to Swanpool Beach and Nature Reserve.

Where to stay: St Michaels Resort overlooks Gyllyngvase beach, and is a dog-friendly spa hotel offering coastal-chic interiors and a contemporary finish.

Southwold, Suffolk

Charming Southwold makes a great winter break, where a golden-sand beach lined with pastel-hued huts and seaside cafes meets a quintessential resort town. Crafty shops, an award-winning pier, locally brewed beer and bustling harbour all combine to make this one of Britain's best winter beaches. While you're here, also make sure to discover Covehithe Beach - a remote and unspoilt stretch of sand nearby.

Where to stay: Drop anchor at The Sail Loft , a beachside restaurant with rooms serving up the freshest catch of the day, and the chance to dip your toes in the sea before brekkie.

Camber Sands, East Sussex

If rolling sand dunes and pristine water is your thing, the two miles of beautiful beach at Camber Sands will definitely tickle your fancy. With unspoilt views and the only sand dune system in East Sussex, it's hard not to fall for its coastal charms. It's also on the doorstep of nearby Rye, a medieval town with cobbled lanes and half-timbered houses.

Where to stay: Cosy up in front of a crackling fire at the 15th-century Mermaid Inn in Rye.

Machir Bay, Isle of Islay, Scotland

Head to Scotland's whisky island for a winter-warming break with a difference. Islay boasts no less than nine distilleries to warm your cockles after a stroll on the breathtakingly beautiful beach at Machir Bay. Enjoy windswept walks on the dune-backed fine sand and clifftop nature reserves before thawing out with a wee dram in front of a roaring fire. Ferries run from Oban or Kennacraig.

Where to stay: The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links is a great blend of country-contemporary and cosy accommodation.

Harbour Cove, Padstow, Cornwall

Considering Padstow is a veritable foodie hotspot, the wide stretch of sandy beach at nearby Harbour Cove (also known as Tregirls Beach) remains relatively quiet - even more so in winter. Looking out over the mouth of the Camel Estuary, it's one of the UK's best winter beaches for a dog-friendly walk, and is half an hour along the South West Coast Path to vibrant, bustling Padstow, where you can tuck into the freshest seafood at trendy eateries like Stein's Fish & Chips and Paul Ainsworth at No.6.

Where to stay: Check into Paul Ainsworth's Padstow Townhouse for luxurious interior design and a boutique vibe.

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19 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jun 8, 2023

Consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom (UK) has long been one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. For most travelers, like me, the country's appeal has as much to do with its diverse scenery as it does its rich cultural heritage. In fact, the best places to visit in the UK include everything from beautifully preserved country estates and picturesque castles to its many big city art galleries and museums.

You'll find one of the greatest pleasures of a UK vacation, however, is just how easy it is for you to explore this fascinating, diverse, and relatively small country. The UK could easily fit into the state of Texas with room to spare, so you can base yourself in a couple of cities and simply take a train, bus, or ferry to explore other areas.

One of my favorite day trips from London , for example, is to take the 90-minute train ride to beautiful Salisbury . Once there, you're only a short bus ride or tour away from one of the country's most recognizable attractions, Stonehenge. Want to hop between the Scottish cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow ? A one-hour train ride will deposit you in the heart of either city.

Sure, the UK can seem like a very busy travel destination. But plan your sightseeing adventures carefully with my list of the best places to visit in the UK and you'll have no problem making the most of your time.

1. London: The UK's All-in-One Destination

2. edinburgh: scotland's capital, 3. roman-era bath, 4. ancient stonehenge and medieval salisbury, 5. royal windsor, 6. idyllic england: the cotswolds, 7. the magical lake district, 8. medieval york and its minster, 9. the university towns of cambridge & oxford, 10. england's pilgrimage city: canterbury, 11. loch ness and inverness, 12. northern ireland's giant's causeway, 13. liverpool: home of the beatles, 14. manchester: england's football mad city, 15. cardiff: the capital of wales, 16. the channel islands, 17. glasgow & loch lomond, 18. snowdonia: wales' biggest mountains, 19. belfast.

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament on the banks of the River Thames

While it's possible to plan a trip to the UK without actually visiting London, it's certainly not a recommendation I'd make. I typically begin my UK visits by spending a few days in the nation's sprawling capital while getting over my jet lag before venturing out to my planned final destination (or destinations).

There are plenty of attractions to keep you busy. Want to learn more about the UK's rich history? You're literally spoiled for choice here as London boasts more than 200 world-class museums and art galleries to explore.

In the City of London, the heart of the old Roman city, you'll find evidence of pretty much every period in history ever since. Some of the top attractions in London are located here, including the Tower of London .

Located beside the spectacular Tower Bridge on the banks of the River Thames , this former palace and prison includes highlights such as the iconic 1,000-year-old White Tower, with its fascinating displays of armor and weaponry, and the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels. I always make a return visit at sunrise or sunset to grab an iconic photo of the Tower of London framed by Tower Bridge.

If you're a fan of Britain's Royal Family, you'll want to head to Buckingham Palace , London's Royal home since Queen Victoria's reign. Here, you can enjoy the colorful pomp of the Changing of the Guard or even take a tour of the Palace's State Rooms. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book in advance as they're only open for a few weeks each year.

From here you can wander along the Thames to the city's Whitehall Road area. Here you'll find Big Ben and the Parliament Buildings , as well as Westminster Abbey, the scene of many a royal wedding.

Another area to visit in London is South Kensington, home to the city's best museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum , as well as the famous Harrods department store. Also check out Trafalgar Square , home to the iconic Nelson's Column and the National Portrait Gallery.

And be sure to make the most of London's excellent transport system. Whether you go by bus or by underground, the system's now so good that you can simply use a debit or credit card to tap in and out as you go. It really is very easy, and once you've mastered that famous map of the city's "Tube" network you'll be traveling like a Londoner.

One of the UK's most attractive cities, the capital city of Edinburgh is also one of the UK's most visited destinations. Popular for its many well-preserved historic buildings, Edinburgh is perhaps best known as the home of the majestic Edinburgh Castle .

Perched high above the old city on a rocky promontory, this 13th-century royal fortress includes highlights such as the famous One O'Clock Salute, held daily at Half Moon Battery, as well as the Scottish Crown Jewels in the Royal Palace . Also worth seeing are the Scottish National War Memorial and the famous Stone of Destiny , the Stone of Scone, which only returned to Scotland after being held for 700 years in London.

From the castle, I always find it easy to explore the other most important historic sites in the city. Follow your nose downhill from the castle to the Old Town via the famous Royal Mile , a delightful medieval cobbled street that's immensely fun to walk. Sure, there are plenty of the usual tacky tourist and souvenir shops, but skip these and look out for the area's fine old architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants, as well as trendy art galleries and studios.

Edinburgh Old Town is also where you'll find the splendid old Palace of Holyroodhouse . From here, I usually make my way to Princes Street and New Town before looping back around to the castle. This broad, more modern avenue was planned in the late 18th century and is extremely popular for its shopping and dining opportunities. It's also where you'll find attractions such as the Royal Botanical Garden and the National Gallery of Scotland.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Edinburgh

Although one of the UK's smaller cities, Bath more than makes up for its diminutive size with a multitude of things to see and do . Named after its famous Roman Baths, this beautiful city has been luring visitors like you and me to its healing waters for more than 2,000 years.

Gushing from three hot springs, the water-known to consist of 43 different minerals, hence its curative properties-travels upwards some 3,048 meters at a rate of 275,000 gallons per day, before spilling out at a consistent 46.5 degrees Celsius. It's a truly awesome sight, and also a little eerie to think that you're standing just feet away from the very hot springs that Romans and early Britons enjoyed some 2,000 years before you got here.

While it's not possible to bathe in the original Roman Baths (try it and you'll be arrested!), a number of nearby spas, most notably the modern Thermae Bath Spa , offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the city's famous waters. This must-do experience features a stunning rooftop pool using the same waters as the Roman Baths, and all with incredible views of city landmarks such as Bath Abbey .

In addition to its ancient history, Bath is also famous for its lovely Georgian architecture. The best examples can be seen along the magnificent, curved Royal Crescent, with its palatial townhomes. One of them, No.1 Royal Crescent , is now a museum that offers a fascinating peek into life during Georgian times.

While Bath is served by the same London rail service as the neighboring port city of Bristol , it's one of those increasingly forward-thinking cities that makes it easy for car drivers, too. My most recent visit in the summer of 2022 was via car, and I avoided traffic and hassle by parking at the extremely affordable Landsdowne Park and Ride facility on the outskirts of the city. Not only is it inexpensive with plenty of availability, but regular bus services will also whisk you away to the heart of the city in just 10 minutes.

Read More: From London to Bath: Best Ways to Get There

One of the planet's oldest World Heritage Sites , Stonehenge has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 4,500 years. It was believed to have been erected as a place of worship, but these days, the crowds consist of tourists drawn by the sheer scale of this magnificent monument to mankind's ingenuity.

It's a sprawling site, covering an area of more than 20 square kilometers and boasting a state-of-the-art visitor center. Here, you can catch a fascinating glimpse not only into the construction of Stonehenge but also its history since then.

But it does get busy, so be sure to plan well ahead and purchase a timed ticket for the day of your visit. Better still, splurge a little on one of the attraction's new VIP admission packages . This unforgettable experience guarantees your spot on a fun "Stone Circle Experience" that includes free time to wander the site on your own. The verdict? It's a must-do.

Be sure to also spend time exploring the nearby medieval city of Salisbury , located just 16 kilometers south of Stonehenge. You'll be rewarded with a chance to visit one of the country's most famous cathedrals, dating back to 1220 and home to an original Magna Carta .

Afterward, spend time wandering the old city center with its many fine churches and historic medieval architecture. Not only are there a number of first-rate places to stay here (I'm partial to the Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel for its central location and 4-star quality and cleanliness), but great little intimate eateries like the Cosy Club on Crane Street. The food here is home-cooked, locally sourced, tasty... and served in an extremely patriotic British setting.

Read More: From London to Stonehenge: Best Ways to Get There

The historic town of Windsor, conveniently located a short train ride west of Central London, offers plenty of fun attractions for tourists . In addition to its lovely Thames-side setting and the many medieval half-timbered buildings along its quaint old cobblestone laneways, it's also home to spectacular Windsor Castle , the most famous of the UK's royal castles.

This grand old castle has served as the summer residence of British royalty for more than a millennium. It was started by William the Conqueror in 1078 and is the world's largest inhabited castle. Highlights include the splendid State Apartments containing the Queen's Gallery and dining hall, each with magnificently painted ceilings and woodcarvings, and St. George's Chapel, famous as the home of the Knights and Ladies of the ancient Order of the Garter.

When you've had your fill of these historic buildings, be sure to also spend time exploring the castle's large and beautiful grounds, almost 10 kilometers long. You'll enjoy some truly memorable panoramic views over Windsor and its castle, and a number of picnic areas, some with barbecue grills, are available if you want to stop awhile.

Traveling with kids? Another area attraction worth visiting is Legoland Windsor . This fun family resort, set on 150 acres of parkland and just a short bus ride from Windsor town center, even boats a modern Lego-themed hotel if you're looking to make a weekend of it.

Also worth seeing is Royal Ascot , the UK's most famous horse-racing venue. While you might want to try to time your trip to coincide with the Royal Meeting held each June, you'll find yourself fighting often huge crowds, all dressed to the nines, here for what is after all one of the most important events on the country's social calendar.

Read More: From London to Windsor: Best Ways to Get There

Village of Castle Combe in the Cotswolds

Covering almost 1,287 square kilometers of charming countryside, the beautiful Cotswolds is undoubtedly one of the most photographed corners of England. Its unrivaled pastoral scenery has earned it a reputation as one of the most beautiful places in the UK, ranking highly on many a traveler's bucket list.

Easy to get to from London and close to the popular tourist attractions of Bath and Bristol , the Cotswolds includes some of the best parts of the counties of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire.

Why visit? Well, if you're anything like me, you're here to experience a true taste of rural English life and explore its many quaint villages . You'll want to include the idyllic village of Bourton-on-the-Water on your Cotswolds itinerary. Nicknamed the "Venice of the Cotswolds," this popular vacation spot boasts a charming river setting and countless well-preserved cottages, some dating back to the 15th century, and all just begging to be photographed.

One of the most popular ways to do this is via the area's extensive trail network, including the excellent 164-kilometer-long Cotswold Way. Other fun things to do include horseback riding and biking, or simply soaking up the history of popular market towns such as Castle Combe or Tetbury.

Located in the northeast of England not far from the border with Scotland , the spectacular Lake District in Cumbria covers an area of 1,448 square kilometers. Not only is it considered one of the most magical places to visit in the UK for its beautiful scenery, its reputation as a place of romance and great culture will forever be associated with its most famous former resident, Beatrix Potter.

It was Potter who in fact led the way with the conservation efforts that have preserved so much of the Lake District when she bequeathed her estate to the National Trust. Her one-time home near Sawrey, Hill Top , can and should be visited for its exhibits and artifacts.

Her legacy also set the stage for the establishment of Lake District National Park . Encompassing 12 of the country's largest lakes including Windermere and Ullswater, the two biggest and best known, this beautiful region is another famous place in the UK that's great to explore on foot. All told the park boasts more than 3,218 kilometers of hiking and walking trails, so be sure to pack your hiking boots.

Other things to do in the Lake District include visiting Scafell Pike , at 978 meters the highest mountain in England. And, of course, there is no end of picturesque towns and villages to explore, including Grasmere .

Read More: From London to the Lake District: Best Ways to Get There

One of northern England's most popular tourist destinations, the medieval city of York, long the ecclesiastical capital of the Church of England, boasts one of the country's most magnificent cathedrals. The country's largest medieval church, York Minster can trace its roots back to the spread of Christianity in the 3rd century, although the splendid present Gothic structure was built almost 1,000 years later.

One of the best ways to get to see this historic landmark is via an official guided tour . I recommend you book in advance, and spend a little time reviewing the available choices to find one best suited to your interests. I opted for the fascinating "Tower Trip" option, a little more expensive but well worth the cost for the magnificent city views.

Other highlights of a visit to York Minster include seeing its spectacular 14th-century stained glass windows, plus the richly decorated interiors of the choir and north transept. You'll also want to visit the crypt, which contains parts of the original 11th-century church the cathedral now stands on.

Another York landmark worth exploring is the historic City Walls . I make a point of strolling this nearly five-kilometer-long structure each and every time I visit the city. Not only is it good exercise, but it's also a fun way to circle around the old medieval city center without the crowds.

Along the way, you'll enjoy excellent views over The Shambles , a narrow 14th-century roadway that's famous for its fine old timber-framed buildings, many of which hang over the street below. It's also an area known for its many restaurants and tearooms, as well as its many boutique shops and galleries.

York also boasts a number of major museums, the most popular being the National Railway Museum . Highlights of this museum's vast collection include many fine old steam engines dating as far back as 1820, plus a unique collection of Royal Trains. The museum also offers an excellent afternoon tea experience in the historic Countess of York railway carriage, bookable in advance.

Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England
From London to York: Best Ways to Get There

The UK has long been a center of learning, with two of its most famous university towns also ranking highly as tourist destinations. An easy commute north of London and just 128 kilometers apart, Cambridge and Oxford have for centuries been rivals for the title of the country's top academic establishment, a rivalry celebrated during the famous rowing event, The Boat Race , which takes place each spring on the River Thames .

Despite this generally good-spirited rivalry, each location offers plenty of attractions to make them worthwhile additions to your UK travel itinerary. Highlights of a visit to Cambridge include the chance to wander the UK's largest collection of preserved historic buildings, many of them located within an easy walk of Cambridge University ' s 31 colleges, the oldest of which was founded in 1284.

In addition to touring the stunning college grounds (only a handful of the university's buildings offer tours), you should also take a punt along the River Cam. This must-do activity is something of a Cambridge ritual, and chances are you'll even be "punted" along by a university student willing to share a little of their college experiences.

As with most popular tourist destinations, however, a little advance planning will ensure you find a reputable company for your punting tour. Licensed operators to consider include Cambridge Punt Company , which also offers a private romantic evening tour; and Scholars Punting , which features a fun picnic hamper package worth considering. In both cases, you can keep the cost down by joining a shared tour.

Oxford University's 38 colleges are equally fun to explore. These historic old places of learning are each set around a quadrangle and several inner courtyards along with chapels, dining halls, libraries, and student residences, some of which offer unique tourist accommodation packages, too. Like most UK tourist sites, they do get extremely busy in summer so be sure to book your visit in advance if you can to avoid disappointment.

Other Oxford highlights include the Carfax Tower, with its fine views over the city center, and the many fine old buildings of the town's High Street .

Pay a visit to historic Canterbury in Kent, and you'll soon discover why this beautiful city continues to be such a draw for visitors to the UK.

An easy hour's train ride from central London, Canterbury has been a draw for visitors for centuries. The first visitors were religious pilgrims who have in fact been visiting for more than 1,500 years, ever since St. Augustine first started converting pagan Anglo-Saxons to Christianity here in AD 597.

The city's most famous attraction is Canterbury Cathedral , the home church of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning cathedral offers plenty to see, from the intricately carved masonry of its exterior to its magnificent interior, a highlight of which is the beautiful choir with its statues of six English kings. Also of note are the exquisite Miracle Windows, dating from the 12th century and depicting scenes from the life of murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket .

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the pedestrianized area of Old City Canterbury with its many preserved, historic timber-framed buildings, particularly along Mercery Lane. Be sure to include the excellent Canterbury Roman Museum on your itinerary. It was built around the remains of an original Roman townhouse and its unique mosaic.

Read More: From London to Canterbury: Best Ways to Get There

The ruins of Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness

Despite the fact that the legends of mythical monsters have largely been debunked (just don't tell the locals), spectacular Loch Ness remains an extremely popular tourist attraction for travelers heading to Scotland. While it's unlikely you'll encounter any monsters, you will, however, be rewarded with seeing some of the UK's most beautiful scenery.

Highlights of Loch Ness include the ruins of Urquhart Castle . Set overlooking the loch, it's one of Scotland's largest fortifications, with the current structure dating from the 14th century. For those wanting to learn more about the area's many legends, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition recounts its history, along with that of its monster, including details of ongoing searches for the elusive creature.

A little farther north is Inverness. This lovely city boasts numerous excellent attractions, including Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and the late 19th-century St. Andrew's Cathedral.

History buffs should also check out the Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre . It was in Culloden in 1746 that the English and Scots fought their last battle and where the fate of Scotland as a British dominion was determined. Also of interest are the gravestones of warriors from the Scottish clans, as well as the six-meter-high Memorial Cairn erected in 1881 to commemorate the battle.

From Glasgow to Loch Ness: Best Way to Get There
From Edinburgh to Loch Ness: Best Ways to Get There

It's sometimes a little too easy to forget that the UK includes a tiny little piece of Ireland . Northern Ireland, consisting of the northeast corner of the "Emerald Isle," can easily be included on a trip to either country and is well worth taking the time to explore.

My favorite among the many Northern Ireland attractions worth visiting is the magnificent Giant's Causeway, a stunningly beautiful natural feature that looks anything but natural. Just a short drive from the capital of Belfast , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of unusual columns of layered basalt that jut upwards out of the sea and shoreline like some giant's staircase, hence their name.

All told, there are some 4,000 of these polygonal-shaped steps to see and clamber over. Formed over 60 million years ago during a period of intense volcanic activity, it's a truly impressive sight, and easy to see how local legends of giants could so easily have sprung up as a result.

A modern visitor center has been opened here and provides fascinating details about the reality and the myths behind this bucket-list attraction. Guided tours can be arranged, and be sure to make use of the audio guides that are provided with admission. Tickets can be booked online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Read More: From Dublin to Giant's Causeway: Best Ways to Get There

Liverpool , under three hours away from London by rail, offers plenty of cultural excitement for the curious traveler. It's also well-known for its role in giving rise to the English music legacy, not least because of its association with the Beatles .

Music fans are drawn here first and foremost for "Fab Four"-related attractions, such as The Beatles Story located in the renovated Albert Docks area. Also worth seeing are the famous Cavern Club, where the band made its debut in 1961, as well as the former homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Numerous walking tours and bus tours of Beatles sites are also readily available.

Other great reasons to visit Liverpool include its many historic buildings, lovely gardens, and parks, as well as great museums such as the Merseyside Maritime Museum , the Museum of Liverpool , and world-class art galleries like the Walker Art Gallery and the Tate Gallery . These are all located in the city's revitalized Royal Albert Dock area, an historic area enjoyed exploring on foot.

Thanks to its international airport, Manchester is often the first stop for many visitors from North America planning to explore northern England, Scotland, or Wales. It's especially popular for fans of the sport of football (that's soccer to those from the US, including Ted Lasso!).

Manchester is, in fact, home to two top football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. Both are well represented in the must-visit National Football Museum , as are other popular teams from around the UK. Along with displays of memorabilia, trophies, and clothing, fun short movies explain the history of the sport and capture many of its defining moments.

Be sure to also visit at least one Manchester club's stadium, too. The best known is Manchester United's Old Trafford grounds, though Manchester City's Etihad Stadium is also worth seeing. Both offer fascinating tours and behind-the-scenes access. Better still, try to visit when there's a game on!

Other notable places to visit in Manchester include Castlefield , popular for its well-preserved Victorian houses, canals, and Roman ruins. It's also popular to explore on foot for its many old warehouses now serving as trendy shops, hotels, and restaurants.

If you've got time left in your Manchester itinerary, be sure to include Manchester Cathedral and the historic Town Hall. There's also a rich cultural scene that includes museums (Museum of Science and Industry), galleries (Manchester Art Gallery), and entertainment (Chinatown).

Despite being much smaller than both Scotland and England, Wales is home to some of the UK's top attractions. Interesting things to do here range from exploring the breathtaking scenery and enjoying outdoor adventures in its national parks to visiting its historic castles.

One of the best places to sample a little of everything that Wales has to offer is the country's capital, Cardiff , with most travelers beginning their visit at Cardiff Castle . Located in the middle of the city and built on the ruins of an ancient Roman fort, parts of the current structure date as far back as 1090, with much of it restored in the 1800s. Highlights include the State Apartments, the Clock Tower, the Chapel, and a spectacular Banqueting Hall with its fine murals.

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the city's many old Victorian shopping arcades, the best of which can be found around The Hayes. You'll find everything from second-hand record stores to boutique clothing shops and custom jewelers to browse.

Also worth checking out is Cardiff Bay. One of the UK's largest redevelopment projects, this vast area is now home to numerous fine restaurants, theaters, galleries, and shopping opportunities, many of them housed in former warehouses on lovely Mermaid Quay.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

Gorey Castle in Saint Martin, Jersey, Channel Islands

Although just 14 miles away from mainland France , the Channel Islands have been a British territory since 1066. One of the most picture-perfect destinations in the country, these attractive small islands not only boast a milder climate but offer great places to visit that don't get the large crowds like other parts of the country.

The Channel Islands comprise Jersey (the largest island), Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and Herm (the smallest), along with numerous even tinier islands. The intrepid traveler will also be rewarded with everything from quaint seaside towns and villages to explore, historic castles and ruins (sometimes one and the same), as well as outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting.

As for getting here, the Channel Islands are well served by ferries from mainland England, as well as short flights from most major British airports.

Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

Aerial view of Balmaha village on Loch Lomond

The Scottish city of Glasgow is a great place to visit for those who enjoy a mix of cultural attractions and the great outdoors. Once you've had your fix of historic sites such as Glasgow Cathedral and the museums of the University of Glasgow, among others, head out to explore nearby Loch Lomond .

Loch Lomond was dubbed "The Queen of Scottish Lakes" by famed writer Walter Scott, and it's here you'll see Ben Lomond and the beautiful Trossachs countryside. Trossachs National Park now includes Loch Lomond itself and covers some 720 square miles of prime hiking and biking country.

It's also popular for its fishing and boating, including sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. For true outdoor enthusiasts, Loch Lomond is the perfect spot for a "wild camping" adventure. Not only is it safe, you're never too far away from people if you need them. And, of course, you'll agree that the scenery here is even more beautiful when you have it all to yourself.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Glasgow

Not only does the Snowdonia region of Wales boast some of the country's most remarkable scenery — and that's saying something, as it really is a beautiful country — it's also home to the UK's second largest national park: Snowdonia National Park. Spread across nearly 830 square miles, the park is as big a draw for adventurers as it is for those seeking a pleasant and not-too-exhausting day trip.

If you're a hiker you can choose from a variety of trails that wind their way up (and down) Mount Snowdon itself, spending a full day tackling as difficult a route to the top as you desire. And those like me who want to see the spectacular views from the top without all the hard work can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway .

Considered one of the world's top scenic railways, the journey starts in Llanberis before tackling steep inclines up to the "Eryri" visitor center at the top of Snowdon.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Snowdonia

Once omitted from the itineraries of most travelers to the UK, Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, has in recent years become something of a must-see destination. Not only are there numerous historic attractions and cultural experiences to enjoy, but the city's people have the same welcoming attitude that the European nation of Ireland to the south is known for.

One of the city's top claims to fame was its role in the building of the ill-fated ocean liner, RMS Titanic . This connection is celebrated and memorialized in the city's Titanic Quarter , home to the impressive Titanic Belfast attraction. Here, you can explore interactive exhibits that deal not only with the vessel, but the thousands of people involved in its construction and, ultimately, its sinking.

More on England

Unmissable UK winter family destinations to entertain energetic kids

With a seven-year-old and a four-year-old, life can become very busy with school, clubs and endless birthday parties. But as a family, we try and make time to visit our friends dotted all over the UK—whatever the season.

I find my children need to have a run-around and burn off all that bottled up energy—so unless the weather is particularly brutal you will find us outside, exploring a place for at least part of a day. The UK has a plethora of wintery attractions for families with some great centrally located family hotels. We’ve rounded up six places guaranteed to provide the kids with a fun-filled trip.

Winchester | a family-friendly city full of historical charm and countryside fun

Picturesque Winchester is steeped in character with historical buildings, world-class attractions and countryside trails for walking and cycling. Did you know it is also the original capital of England? During winter it dazzles with festive fun—with something for all ages.

Things to do with the kids:

From December, there are the popular Santa Specials steam train rides on the Watercress Line. Travel in a festive train carriage for a magical trip where Santa and his jolly helpers pass through and give children a gift and an activity pack for the hour journey. We’ve been on a similar ride and my two enjoyed the build-up to the ride with little activities such as miniature train sets, carols being sung and moving animatronic Christmas scenes as you queue.

Once on the train, everybody gets into the spirit with festive songs, the excitement of the children is infectious with the anticipation of Father Christmas making his way through the carriages. The warming glass of mulled wine accompanied by a mince pie was much appreciated by us grown-ups too!

Journey through the Winchester Mill—a National Trust property—for a treasure hunt left by Father Christmas himself and help collect the reindeer. Treasure hunts always seem to go down a treat with our two: my eldest practises her reading and loves solving the puzzles, whilst the youngest is more motivated by finding the treasure before her sister!

Children and adults alike will enjoy ice-skating at the atmospheric open-air ice rink set up in the heart of the cathedral grounds. We all wobbled our way around and our youngest appreciated the penguins on stabilisers—which help give little ones a bit more independence. Surrounding the ice rink is one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe—full of pretty wooden chalets filled with crafts, gifts and festive food. Don’t forget a glass of warming mulled wine and of course hot chocolate topped with marshmallows!

If it’s too chilly outside, families can head to the Winchester Science Centre and planetarium. My eldest would be thrilled by the interactive games and an immersive space zone—where you can find out how to bend light, create a tornado and vortex, experiment with electronic music, see a heat-sensitive camera in action and lots more. Even the youngest tots are catered for too.

A short drive away from the city centre, set in acres of land, lies another popular attraction—Marwell Zoo. There is even a tropical house area if you need to warm up! The zoo also hosts an enchanted Christmas World: Listen to Mother Christmas as she tells stories from Neverland—inspired by Peter Pan.

Hotels - Winchester

Where to stay with kids in winchester.

Marwell Hotel , close to Marwell Zoo, is a safari-themed hotel with family rooms set in the countryside. Some family rooms come equipped with bunk beds and a double bed. All rooms have a kettle—which is useful if you need to make up a bottle of milk.

Facilities include a large indoor swimming pool, an outdoor play area, free wifi and an activity pack for kids! Older kids may enjoy the games room and movie nights. Best of all, it is walking distance to Marwell Zoo.

Marwell Hotel

London | bright lights, big city with great transport options for families..

London is a popular trip for families whatever the weather, but in winter the city truly sparkles and glistens in festive lights.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park: this yuletide winter-themed carnival opens every year in November and is home to a host of attractions including The Snowman™ Experience, Peter Pan On Ice, a new “Secret Forest” theme for The Magical Ice Kingdom, a virtual reality roller coaster, a Parade of Light. Returning favourites include shows from Zippos Christmas Circus and Cirque Berserk, a big wheel and the UK’s biggest open-air ice rink. It is free to enter but the games, rides and special attractions do require tickets.

Always a crowd-pleaser, the Natural History Museum. is a fun-filled way to spend your day and an absolute must for dinosaur fans like my pre-schooler. From October to late January, there is an ice-skating rink and a traditional carousel.

Kidzania is a miniature city for kids with over 60 real-life role-play adventures. From the moment you step into the ‘airport’ and hand over your boarding pass, you’re whisked away into a world of play. Children are able to have jobs and make money. They can be a doctor, pilot, fireman, work for the postal office, retail, learn to cook, write for the newspaper, work in broadcasting and even play on a professional football team. I am not sure who had the most fun in the pilot section—me or the girls?

For some unusual trip ideas in London, how about visiting an underground postal museum and riding on the old postal train, or explore the Museum of Childhood or even the Churchill War Rooms?

With great transport links, London can easily be used as a base to visit attractions further afield, too. For example, Muggles can walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter and explore the wonders of the Wizarding World at the Warner Brothers studio tour in Watford. This is absolutely top of our list as we are huge Harry Potter fans (even the four-year-old!)—but be warned, tickets must be bought well in advance and popular dates such as school holidays sell out quickly!

Hotels - London

Where to stay in london with kids.

Park Plaza Westminster Bridge is centrally located for many tourist attractions including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St. James Park, and Buckingham Palace. It is also very close to the London Eye. Unusually, for a centrally-based London hotel, it comes with an indoor pool.

Helpfully for families, rooms are equipped with fridges—which is incredibly useful when you are travelling with kids: mine like having fresh fruit to hand and when they were younger warm milk before bedtime. The family studio room has a double bed and a double sofa bed for children. The kitchen area has a kettle, microwave plus a mini-bar.

Just outside the hotel, you can expect great transport links for the buses, tube and even the river bus. Top tip: If you are visiting over the New Year period, ask for a room facing the London Eye to catch the fireworks!

Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London

Edinburgh | a mystical castle and family fun at a children’s market set in a friendly city.

With its majestic castle welcoming you to the city, you can’t help but be enthralled with all it has to offer—whatever the season. However, in winter especially, Edinburgh becomes rather magical indeed.

Younger kids will love Santa Land in Princes Street Gardens, a festive fairground with six fun rides and a children’s Christmas market full of gifts and toys. Try to find the Elves’ Workshop hidden in the Christmas Tree Maze, or visit Santa’s Grotto to meet the man himself! Those looking for an ice-skating rink will be happy to see the one in St Andrew Square.

For a further festive shopping experience, there are several other Christmas markets, including food and drink and traditional crafts at the Scottish Market on George Street, and the European Market in the Mound Precinct.

If you are in Edinburgh over New Year, head down to the Torchlight Procession on the 30th December. My two would be full of delight and no doubt plenty of ‘ooh’s and ahhs’ at the children’s firework display in Bairns Afore to celebrate Hogmanay.

No trip would be complete without exploring Edinburgh Castle, which hosts the Scottish crown jewels, weapons and armoury, an impressive Great Hall and much more.

Hotels - Edinburgh

Where to stay in edinburgh with kids.

Rutland Hotel is an ideal base to explore Edinburgh. For rainy days, you’ll be pleased to know your TV has Netflix—which basically makes a hotel “the best’ in my kids’ eyes! Cots and folding beds are available, plus a Nintendo Wii, free toy boxes and baby packs with monitors. Teenage girls will be pleased to hear GHD hairdryer and straighteners are provided in every room, too.

Splurge on their two bedroomed apartment—perfect for families like mine who appreciate not having to whisper in the dark whilst small ones sleep! The onsite restaurant caters for children before 6.30 p.m. Otherwise, head to the nearby “Dough” take-away pizzeria and enjoy a delicious pizza in the comfort of your hotel room.

The Rutland Hotel & Apartments

Cardiff | discover art, history and culture with kids.

Not to be outdone, Cardiff has a Winter Wonderland, too! With an indoor ice-skating rink, a funfair, seasonal activities, bars and food stalls, all against the backdrop of the iconic civic centre and spectacular lights.

Space fans will be enthralled by seeing the spacecraft that brought British astronaut Tim Peake back to Earth from the International Space Station. Running from November to February at the National Museum Wales. We visited the exhibition during its stop at Peterborough Cathedral—which has sparked a fascination with all things space-related with my seven-year-old.

Marvel at the festive decorations at Cardiff Castle and visit Santa’s Grotto. Explore the tunnels within the walls of the Castle. Tunnels which acted as air-raid shelters during the Second World War. Alternatively, head to the historic undercroft and enjoy the underground cinema over Christmas.

Culture vultures will love the ballet shows at St David’s Hall. This year, the Russian State Ballet of Siberia is accompanied by The Russian State Ballet Orchestra return with four enchanting ballets including Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, Cinderella and the Snow Maiden.

Hotels - Cardiff

Where to stay in cardiff with kids.

Novotel Cardiff City Centre is a four-star hotel which is just a 15-minute walk from Cardiff Castle. Spacious rooms have free Wi-Fi, a mini-fridge and kettle—perfect for a hot cup of tea after exploring the city.

Children dine free at breakfast, but the hotel clearly hasn’t seen how much mine eat! Older kids will enjoy the Xbox and Apple computers in the lobby area. There is also an indoor heated pool which is a huge bonus when travelling with kids.

Novotel Cardiff Centre

Derry-londonderry | kid-friendly activities galore near the ancient city walls and river foyle.

Derry–Londonderry is the only completely walled city in Ireland and one of the finest in Europe. Fans of Horrible Histories will enjoy the fascinating stories about 17th-century sieges, starving citizens and fearsome roaring cannons.

Jungle NI in Moneymore, County Londonderry is an exciting outdoor adventure location offering paintballing, zorbing, segwaying, a high wire Tarzan treetop adventure course and much more. Over the festive period, there is also a Christmas Wonderland where children can meet and greet Santa, ride on the Jungle Express to and from Santa’s retreat in the forest, enjoy storytelling and puppetry with Mrs Claus or even ride a rodeo reindeer!

Need to entertain teens? For something a little bit different for older teens, how about riding in a hovercraft? Foylehov Activity Centre is the only Hovercrafting Centre in Northern Ireland. For those who don’t quite make the age requirements, there are family days out packages which can include archery, laser tag, football, golf and clay pigeon shooting.

Just over an hour away, lies the Giant’s Causeway, part of the National Trust and a World Heritage site. My kids would love searching for the Giant’s Boot, the Wishing Chair and the Camel!

Hotels - Derry-Londonderry

Where to stay in londonderry with kids.

The Roe Park Resort has parkland walks on your doorstep, plus it is home to an 18-hole golf course (I usually omit this sort of information to my husband!). The Giant’s Causeway and historic city of Derry-Londonderry are just minutes away and the family suites are amongst the largest family rooms in Northern Ireland.

This hotel is also equipped with an indoor pool and baby pool for smaller tots—but you do need to bring a swimming cap to use the pool and hot tub. These can be currently purchased for £2.50 in the spa reception area. An array of kid-friendly activities are put on at various times; including a kids’ disco, balloon making and face-painting.

Roe Park Resort

Windsor | a family- friendly town full of pomp, ceremony and kid friendly activities.

With two recent royal weddings, Windsor has been very much in the public eye. From the historic castle to festive theme park offerings, there is something here for kids big and small.

Windsor Castle is clearly a must-do—it is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world which has plenty of areas to see and explore for all ages. Ice skating fans will enjoy Windsor on Ice, set by the River Thames, with Windsor Castle as a backdrop. In addition, there are also children’s rides and other Christmas shows and attractions, these include a Reindeer parade, pantomimes, Christmas holiday walks and trails for all the family.

The Legoland theme park is a short distance away, with plenty of extra festive fun over winter; including creative workshops, treasure hunts, elf scavenger hunt, costumes character meet and greet. Before Christmas, kids can meet Santa and if you are good, receive a Lego gift.

For an immersive wintery trip, then consider Lapland UK. Lapland UK is just 15 minutes away in nearby Ascot and recreates Father Christmas’ arctic homeland. Make sure you book in advance—this enables you to give your child’s details to Santa, making it a unique personal visit. Children can help the elves make toys, wander through snowy woods and enjoy ice-skating.

Hotels - Windsor

Where to stay in windsor with kids.

The Holiday Inn Express is a great option for families on a budget, especially as children under-19 stay for free. It is just a few minutes from Windsor Castle and only a ten-minute drive from Legoland.

A welcome amenity are the in-room tea and coffee facilities. However, don’t expect many more frills. It is a clean, modern hotel with on-site parking (for a fee). Alternatively, there is a public car park located approximately 10-minutes walk away. Look out for the small shop nearby which sells duck and swan food: £1 for two bags, perfect for a gentle stroll to the river.

Holiday Inn Express Windsor, An Ihg Hotel

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Best places in the UK to go birding in winter

Now the cold season has arrived, visit one of these top locations to see birds in spectacular numbers.

Caerlaverock Wildflowl and Wetland Trust (WWT), Dumfries & Galloway

Some 35,000 barnacle geese spend the winter on the Solway Firth, with many thousands of those at Caerlaverock, after spending their breeding season in Arctic Svalbard.

Barnacle geese (Branta leucopsis) feeding on grazing marshes, with one bird wing stretching, Caerlaverock WWT, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, UK, December

Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland

Noted for offering a winter home to three-quarters of the world population of light-bellied brent geese, nearly 40,000 birds. Waders and wildfowl visit in huge numbers, too.

Budle Bay, Bamburgh

Large numbers of overwintering greylag and pink-footed geese, plus wildfowl such as wigeon and teal. Stag Rocks (below the lighthouse) known for its wintering divers and grebes.

RSPB Fairburn Ings , West Yorkshire

Autumn brings passage waders, while in winter you can watch goldeneye, smew and goosanders starting to pair up in preparation for the coming spring.

RSPB Parkgate / Dee Estuary, Cheshire

Autumn is a good time to see passage migrants such as black-tailed godwits and greenshank and also sees the arrival of the first pink-footed geese. Winter brings birds of prey such as hen harriers, merlin and short-eared owls.

RSPB Snettisham , Norfolk

Watch thousands of pink-foots leaving their night-time roost in The Wash any time from mid-November.

Knot Calidris canutus flock exploding from roost at Snettisham on the Wash Norfolk August

Shapwick Heath NNR , Somerset

Best-known for its starling roost – mainly visitors from continental Europe – but also an excellent place to see gadwall, shovellers and tufted ducks. Adjacent reserves such as Ham Wall worth visiting, too.

Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) flock descends to reedbed to roost at Shapwick Heath.

RSPB Pagham Harbour , West Sussex

A huge variety of birds, including large flocks of curlews, knot and bar-tailed godwits.

Dawlish Warren NNR , Devon

An impressive variety and numbers of waders spend the winter on the Exe Estuary – everything from avocets and bar and black-tailed godwits to curlews, dunlin and knot.

Sun breaking through the clouds at Dawlish Warren in winter

Stodmarsh NNR, Kent

Great flocks of wildfowl, and a spectacular starling roost. A winter visit here could also be your best chance of seeing a bittern.

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Politics latest: PM insists defence spending pledge 'fully-funded'; Angela Rayner labels Rishi Sunak a 'pint-sized loser'

The PM is in Germany for talks with Chancellor Olaf Scholz.; Oliver Dowden and Angela Rayner stand in for Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer at PMQs, with the police investigation into Labour's deputy leader featuring prominently.

Wednesday 24 April 2024 13:48, UK

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Sunak insists rise in defence spending is 'fully-funded'
Beth Rigby explains how government arrived at 2.5% figure
Rayner presses Dowden on no-fault evictions - and raises Sky News report - after joke about 'obsession' with her living arrangements
Labour deputy leader labels Sunak 'pint-sized loser'
Former Labour minister Frank Field dies
Local elections: Sam Coates on why they matter | Who can I vote for? | What Sunak and Starmer will be hoping for
Live reporting by Charlotte Chelsom-Pill

Housing Secretary Michael Gove is speaking to the Home Building Federation today, as the government's Renters (Reform) Bill returns to parliament.

In his speech, Mr Gove hints that reforming nutrient neutrality rules to increase housebuilding - a policy defeated by Labour and the Lords in parliament recently - may be in the party's next manifesto.

He is also asked by chair John Pienaar about taking on the "Nimbys" - an acronym meaning "not in my backyard".

This is a term - often used disparagingly - for people who oppose building more houses in their area.

Mr Gove says he does not believe the right course of action is to "take on" Nimbys, but rather work with them.

However, he does admit that some are "irrational" - and that he has taken on those that needed to be.

This includes those within his own party.

Mr Gove's attempts to reform renting have struggled to pass through the Commons due to opposition to government policy by backbench Conservatives.

As the press conference between the prime minister and German chancellor was taking place in Berlin, defence secretary Grant Shapps was giving a statement in the Commons about the government's pledge to increase UK defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030.

Mr Shapps says it represents the "biggest strengthening of our national defence in a generation".

He says the commitment will be "funded in full without any increases in either borrowing or debt".

As we enter a "much more dangerous period," Mr Shapps tells the Commons, "we increasingly need our armed forces and we increasingly are asking more of them".

Shadow defence secretary John Healey welcomes the statement, saying Labour shares the "same ambition as the government" to deal with growing threats.

He says Labour "will always do what's required, spend what's required, on defence".

But he says he wants the government's commitment to be "fully costed and fully funded and asks why it was not set out in last month's budget.

He asks: "If this 2030 plan had been in a budget, it would have been checked, openly costed and fully funded. So where is the additional money coming from?"

If elected, he says Labour would conduct a strategic defence review within their first year to "get to grips with the threats that we face, the capabilities that we need, the state of the armed forces and the resources available when we get to open the books".

"This is how Labour will manage the requirements for strong national security."

Mr Shapps replies that, despite welcoming the announcement, Mr Healey spent "all his time explaining or rather avoiding explaining why they themselves are not backing 2.5%".

"The last thing this country's armed forces require is yet another review, delay, disruption and obfuscation," he adds.

Giving her initial reaction to the news conference in Berlin, our political editor Beth Rigby says Rishi Sunak is a prime minister "back on the world stage".

Mr Sunak is committing to his defence budget and is arguing that funding it is in the interests of the UK's security, she adds.

"He's there making a political choice about how he wants to fund defence, lifting the target of defence spending to 2.5% from the current 2% by the end of the decade."

Beth says it is also a "political play" as a general election looms.

"He is saying in a campaigning way almost: 'this is my priority as prime minister' - challenging opponents to say why it would not necessarily be theirs."

"This is partly about framing an election as being a strong leader, if you like, a wartime prime minister prepared to defend the country," she adds.

Mr Sunak is appealing to the Tory party base who have been calling for an increase in defence spending, Beth says.

"Being strong on defence appeals to many lapsed Conservative voters."

The two leaders are asked now about the arrests of suspected Chinese spies in both Britain and Germany.

"What does it mean for relations to China and what consequences should be drawn from those cases?," they are asked.

Olaf Scholz says Germany "cannot tolerate" espionage against it "regardless of where it comes from", and adds that those responsible should be taken to court.

There should also be cross-border work to tackle spying, he adds.

Rishi Sunak says he cannot comment in detail while an investigation is live in the UK.

But he adds: "Defending our democracy, our democratic processes and institutions is an absolute priority and we won't tolerate any activity that undermines that."

He notes that a new law passed last year gave law enforcement agencies new powers to respond to threats from "hostile foreign actors".

The prime minister and his German counterpart are asked whether they believe the NATO defence spending target should increase to 2.5%.

It comes after defence secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News it would make a "real difference" if the defence spending target increased from the current 2% of gross domestic product to 2.5%.

While not answering the question directly, Mr Sunak says we do need to adjust to a "new paradigm".

"I do believe that we'll look back at this moment in time and recognise that this was an inflection point where the old paradigm is no longer the case and we have to adjust for the new paradigm," he says.

"It's clear that the world that we're living in is increasingly dangerous.... And I think it's right that in light of that we recognise that we need to do more."

He also praises Mr Scholz for the support Germany is offering Ukraine, saying he is also "very proud" of everything the UK has done.

"The key thing is we're united on wanting to support Ukraine for as long as it takes so that Putin is seeing that his aggression will end in failure," Mr Sunak says.

"And we're defending the values that are incredibly important to us.

LBC asks Rishi Sunak what is going to have to go from the government's plans to pay for the increase in defence funding, and whether tax cuts are off the cards.

The prime minister says that investment in schools is going to continue.

He goes on to say that prioritising defence is a "choice" that he has made - although he will not go into the details of what will be in the next manifesto.

Mr Sunak says he has a "strong" plan for the economy and this plan is working - and sticking to this will allow defence spending to go up.

Part of this involves cutting the civil service. These cuts will also fund investment in public services and tax cuts, the PM adds.

Mr Sunak again repeats that his plan is working and that's why he can make the commitments he has.

LBC also asked whether Germany has eyes on a plan like the Rwanda scheme to deport asylum seekers.

Mr Sunak says he and Olaf Scholz discussed law enforcement cooperation, as has been done with other EU members.

Mr Scholz says Germany and the EU have prepared legislation for a common European Asylum System - and does not mention a deportation scheme.

We're moving to a Q&A now, with the first questions each going to Olaf Scholz and Rishi Sunak.

Mr Scholz is asked whether he is "100%" convinced that Donald Trump is committed to the "central tenets" of NATO.

The prime minister is then questioned on whether he is "not entirely squaring with people" over how the projected 2.5% increase in defence spending by 2030 will be funded, and whether it will likely involve "pain" for taxpayers.

Mr Sunak says it is "not a fair characterisation", saying the plan announced yesterday is "fully funded" - predominantly with reduction in the civil service to 2019 levels.

"The chancellor has conducted a detailed exercise... that's what gives us the confidence that we can release the savings needed."

"We have an economic plan that is working," Mr Sunak adds.

Mr Scholz does not directly answer the question regarding Mr Trump, but says he is "confident" that the alliance between NATO nations "won't change" no matter who is president.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is speaking now.

He says the bond between Germany and the UK in this "dangerous moment" is "stronger than ever".

He goes on to congratulate the German chancellor for his leadership in taking the "historic decision" to increase Germany's defence spending.

"We stand here today together as the leading defence spenders in Europe. Unshakeable NATO allies and the two largest military supporters of Ukraine in Europe," the prime minister says.

"Together we will continue to provide unwavering support for our Ukrainian friends, as you [Mr Scholz] said, for as long as it takes."

He adds that the UK and Germany will continue to work closely together on other global challenges, including putting the Middle East "on a better path".

"Together, we have acted to meet this moment," he says.

"We've taken greater responsibility for our collective security.

"And today we're going even further, opening a new chapter in the security relationship between our two nations."

He concludes by saying the thing that "really unites us ... is our people", referencing the love that Liverpool has for Jurgen Klopp and that Munich has for Harry Kane.

Over to Berlin now, where Rishi Sunak and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz are holding a joint news conference during Mr Sunak's first visit to the country as prime minister.

In his opening comments, Mr Scholz marks more than two years of the Ukraine war, which he says has caused "immeasurable suffering".

He notes that Germany and the UK are Kyiv's largest supporters in Europe and should continue their support for "as long as it takes".

Mr Scholz says it is "encouraging" that US Congress has finally passed a huge security bill predominately aimed at aid for Ukraine - but that it "does not release us in Europe here from our task to further enhance our support".

Germany is deepening cooperation "in very practical terms" with the UK on a "range of projects" including a new artillery system and armoured vehicle, Mr Scholz adds.

"Both our countries, Germany and the UK, are making substantial contribution to Europe's defence industry base," he says.

To continue this, a task force will be set up to create a "well-structed" framework for security and defence cooperation, Mr Scholz announces.

He also says it's "very important" to him to create "stronger bonds" between the German and British people.

"We have many issues that we are discussing and I am delighted that we were able to do this today here in Berlin."

Oliver Dowden is now being asked whether he will apologise to unpaid carers who have been "failed" by the government.

Lib Dem MP Daisy Cooper asks whether his government will also commit to a full review of the system.

"Unpaid carers have shared heartbreaking stories of how they have been hounded by the DWP [Department for Work and Pensions] and told to pay huge fines for minor infringements on carers' allowance earning rules," she says.

"All because the government failed to do anything about a problem they have known about for years."

Mr Dowden pays tribute to those unpaid carers, saying "I know how hard they work".

He adds: "In respect of allegations of overpayment, of course appropriate discretion should be shown.

"But if it is the case that there have been erroneous overpayments, it's right on behalf of the taxpayer to be able to recuperate those."

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Spend your winter holiday in one of Britain's prettiest towns and villages with BBC Countryfile Magazine's expert guide.
16 UK Winter holiday destinations: best places to visit in UK in Winter
For places to visit in Winter in the UK focused on the outdoors, head to Snowdonia National Park in Wales. Snowdonia is home to some of the highest peaks in the UK, including the famous Mount Snowdon, and it was the first established National Park in Wales. There is generally a decent snowfall during winter, although there isn't the same ...
Places to Visit in the UK in Winter
3. Birmingham. Birmingham is another of the best places to visit in the UK in winter. This underrated city in England is home to beautiful historic and contemporary architecture, a world-class art museum, and good shopping.. But there are a few things that make it more attractive to visit in winter than at other times of year. I'll start with the Birmingham Christmas markets.
Best Places to Visit in Winter in the UK
From snow-covered mountains to charming historic towns, the UK has a diverse range of destinations that come alive during the winter season. In this article, we'll guide you through some of the best places to visit in the UK during the winter, ensuring you have a memorable and unforgettable experience. 1. Isle of Skye
Winter: Best Places to Visit in the UK 2023
Best Places To Visit In Winter In The UK. Photo 1 of . The Cotswold Christmas Fair. Grab your mistletoe and wine: it's time for The Cotswold Christmas Fair. Moving to a new venue for 2023, this annual festive shopping extravaganza promises to be bigger and better than ever this year, featuring over 220 stallholders selling everything from ...
Winter Destinations UK: 14 Best Places To Visit
Cracken Edge in The Peak District. The Peak District is where you will find the highest natural cavern in the UK. Titan Cave in Castleton was discovered by local pot-holers in 2000 and is a whopping 464 feet from top to bottom. Caving is one of the most popular things to do in Derbyshire and it's easy to see why.
10 beautiful rural places to visit in the UK during winter
Dartmoor, Devon. For sweeping views and bewitching trails, Dartmoor National Park is incredible. The vast empty landscapes of Dartmoor wear the winter well like a beautiful coat, serving to dazzle those brave enough to face the weather. Prepare and pack well before heading out into the wildernesses of Dartmoor.
The Best Places to Visit in Winter in the UK and Ireland
13. Norfolk Broads, East Anglia. Perfect for: Winter boating. Kicking off our guide to the best places to visit in the UK in Winter is the Norfolk Broads! If you're looking for a tranquil winter staycation in the UK then this 125-mile national park packed with shimmering waters that are ideal for fishing is perfect!
10 of the best small UK towns for winter breaks
Alternatively, three miles out of town, Haddon Grove Farm has 11 attractive holiday cottages in converted farm buildings (from £490 for a four night December break in a cottage for four). There ...
16 Brilliant Winter Days Out in England for 2024
Try the Scilly Isles, Lundy Island in Devon, Thorney Island in Hampshire or even a day out in Kent for some great viewing spots. 11. Visit England's best aquariums. England has some fantastic aquariums, which all provide a great solace from the perils of being outside on a wintry day out.
10 Best Places to Visit in the UK in Winter
The UK coastline spans more than 11,000 miles, so it wouldn't be right to conclude this list of best places to visit in the UK in winter without mentioning another proper coastal destination. If we had to choose one of our favourite coastal destinations to visit in wintertime specifically, it would have to be Pembrokeshire.
Britain's best winter beaches for 2024
The East Looe Beach is a beauty that sits right in front of the old town. It's a fantastic UK winter beach in a scenically-blessed area, which also offers fabulous walks thanks to a chunk of the South West Coast Path passing through. Where to stay: Talland Bay Hotel is a dreamy place to relax, offering clifftop views, overlooking pretty Talland ...
25 of the best places to visit in the UK
Galloway Forest is home to Britain's only Dark Sky Park. Arch White/Alamy. Far from the light pollution of towns and cities, Galloway Forest Park is the first Dark Sky Park in the UK. Head here ...
19 Best Places to Visit in the UK
10. England's Pilgrimage City: Canterbury. Canterbury. Pay a visit to historic Canterbury in Kent, and you'll soon discover why this beautiful city continues to be such a draw for visitors to the UK. An easy hour's train ride from central London, Canterbury has been a draw for visitors for centuries.
Unmissable UK winter family destinations to entertain ...
The UK has a plethora of wintery attractions for families with some great centrally located family hotels. We've rounded up six places guaranteed to provide the kids with a fun-filled trip. Mum and blogger Carrie Bradley loops you in on the best destinations and activities for your next UK winter family holiday.
5 Best Places to Visit in Winter in the UK
Hi, everyone!If you're looking for some great places to visit in the UK during winter, then you've come to the right video. In this video, we'll be counting ...
Best places in the UK to go birding in winter
Best places in the UK to go birding in winter - Discover Wildlife
Politics latest: UK and Germany to open 'new chapter' in defence
The government said the commitment amounted to an additional £75bn in funding over the next six years and would see the UK remain "by far the second largest defence spender in NATO after the US".

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

Advantages of visiting the UK in winter

Northumberland

Planning your UK trip

Best places to visit in the UK in winter

Bannau Brycheiniog ( formally known as the Brecon Beacons )

FAQs – Visiting the UK in winter

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

Read update

UPDATE: 2023/01/18 16:03 EST BY KAT BELLO

12 Edinburgh, Scotland

11 London, England

10 Inverness, Scotland

9 The Cotswolds, England

8 Snowdonia National Park, Wales

7 Isle Of Skye, Scotland

6 Bath, England

5 Swansea, Wales

4 Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

3 Cambridge, England

2 Derry, Northern Ireland

1 Betws-y-Coed

The 14 most brrrilliant winter getaways in the UK

Best winter getaways in the UK

1. Cornwall

2. North Wales

3. York

4. Bath

5. Giant’s Causeway

6. Glasgow

7. Orkney Islands

8. Pembrokeshire

9. Cairngorms National Park

10. Norwich

11. Ards Peninsula

12. Hay-on-Wye

13. New Forest

14. Ayr

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Wonderful places to Visit in England in Winter (local tips!)

Reasons to visit England in the winter

Attractions

Fewer tourists

Cheaper prices

Hearty food

Places to visit in England in winter

Oxford

Lake District

Dartmoor National Park

Peak District

Things to do in winter in England

Visit charming towns and cities

Spend some time inside museums

Warm up in a cosy tea room

Road trip around quaint villages

Go for a brisk coastal walk

Visit one of England’s spa towns

Enjoy England’s Christmas markets

Enjoy a pub lunch with a roaring fire

What is the weather like in England during winter?

What to pack for a winter trip to England

How to get around England in the winter

Tips for visiting England in winter

Claire Martin

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Where to go for a winter holiday in the UK

Broadway, Worcestershire

Braemar, Scotland

Castle Combe, Wiltshire

Bath, Somerset

Beaulieu, New Forest

Ullswater, Lake District

Salisbury, Wiltshire

Woodstock, The Cotswolds

York, North Yorkshire

Cley Marshes, Norfolk

Hay-on-Wye, Wales

Newquay, Cornwall

Lode, Cambridgeshire

The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland