11 winter holiday destinations in the UK
Most of us go on holiday during the summer months, however winter in Britain can be stunning and in many cases more exciting. Below are some of the best places to visit during the winter months in the UK.
1. Woodstock
Location: Oxfordshire
Best for: A winter wonderland
Woodstock in Oxfordshire is a quaint market town known for its countryside charm and being the location of Blenheim Palace. This town has a selection of flourishing independent shops and boutiques. The town is a peaceful place to visit in the winter because of its cosy pubs and stunning winter walks.
Place to stay: Blenheim Edge is a stunning Oxfordshire holiday cottage. It sleeps four and is only five minutes walk from the grounds of Blenheim Palace.
If you do one thing: Try to book your visit when Blenheim Palace has its Illuminated Light Trail, a fantastic family adventure or day trip.
2. Bath
Location: Somerset
Best for: Christmas market
Bath in Somerset at any time of year is an incredible city to visit. With ancient Roman baths and incredible Georgian architecture, this city stands out. In winter the city comes to life with a famous Christmas market, lights, music and everything to make your winter a special one.
Place to stay: 35 Hope Place sleeps two in a Grade II listed building located at the heart of the city of Bath.
If you do one thing: Visit the Bath Christmas Market. With more than 150 decorated market huts, this market is one of the very best.
3. Bamburgh
Location: Northumberland
Best for: Winter castles
If you’re a beach lover or perhaps have a furry friend who enjoys the sea, then Bamburgh in Northumberland is a great choice. The bracing west coast winter wind wakes you up, and the imposing Bamburgh Castle holds a wide selection of winter and Christmas events.
Place to stay: Norcot Cottage in Bamburgh sleeps six in a coastal property, with views of the sea and Bamburgh Castle from an enclosed garden.
If you do one thing: Visit Bamburgh Castle over the winter period, there is lots to see and do, particularly nearer the Christmas holidays.
4. Cairngorms
Location: Scottish Highlands
Best for: Winter woodlands
The Cairngorms is a truly beautiful place to visit in the winter months. With snow almost guaranteed, the Scottish Highland forests and mountains put on a wonderful display of winter colours. This location is for lovers of the outdoors and adventurers as it can be a harsh environment.
Place to stay: Cottage in the Highlands is a traditional cottage that sleeps two, it’s perfect a romantic getaway.
If you do one thing: Go for an adventure in the Cairngorms National Park, with mountains, forest and rivers hidden from the rest of the world. Don’t forget to look up at the night’s dark sky littered with stars and planets.
5. Brecon Beacons
Location: Brecon Beacons
Best for: Bracing the winter weather
The Brecon Beacons in Wales is well known for its harsh winter weather and natural beauty. This location is for eager hikers and climbers but also for those who like a quaint village nestled away in the mountains.
Place to stay: Barn in Mid Wales is located just outside the village of Llanfihangel Talyllyn and sleeps five people. It’s a perfect break to cosy up to a hot chocolate and warm fire.
If you do one thing: Walk one of the well-marked trails along The Beacons Way. They range from easy to hard and take you through some stunning Welsh scenery.
6. Lake District
Location: Cumbria
Best for: Winter hiking
The Lake District in Cumbria is one of the most popular summer holiday visits in the UK. However, the numbers dwindle in winter and it becomes a far more atmospheric and personal trip. Take a morning walk around a misty lake or tackle one of the many snowy peaks.
Place to stay: The classic country Craftsman Cottage near Lake Windermere boasts characterful wooden-beamed ceilings and a cosy rustic feel.
If you do one thing: Try some serious hiking in the Lake District with a hike up Skiddaw, prepare for high altitudes and lots of snow.
7. West Lulworth
Location: Dorset
Best for: Rustic coastal village
West Lulworth is a lovely little village split into two in Dorset. With half of the village right next to Lulworth Cove. The village has some beautiful cottages and pubs, perfect for snuggling up during the winter months.
Place to stay: Sink into the bubbling hot tub while soaking up the countryside and sea views at the Cottage in Dorset.
If you do one thing: Tackle the coastal winds and walk cross country to Durdle Door, where you can enjoy a coastal winter view.
8. Wild Atlantic Way
Location: County Mayo
Best for: Wild winter adventures
The Wild Atlantic Way is a wet and windy adventure that stretches over 2,500 kilometres from Donegal to Kinsale. Along the way is County Mayo, a county with some breathtaking scenery and coastal walks, as well as the lively town of Westport.
Place to stay: 6 Strand Cottages sleeps eight people and is only one hundred meters from a lovely beach, perfect for a coastal winter break.
If you do one thing: Visit Keem Bay. A short drive across Achill Island will take you to this Blue Flag beach.
9. Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Best for: Hogmanay
Edinburgh is a magical place during the winter, with snow frequently covering the city in a veil of white. Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) is a moment when Edinburgh springs to life in the darkest months and the city comes out to celebrate.
Place to stay: 3 Lynedoch Place sleeps two people and is situated in Edinburgh’s luxurious New Town area.
If you do one thing: Take part in the Hogmanay celebrations; these can range from street processions to hundreds of drones lighting up the sky.
10. Peak District
Location: Peak District
Best for: Adventure
The Peak District is an area full of adventure. It has fantastic outdoor activities such as caving, climbing, abseiling, horse riding and even snowboarding. If you’re looking for a winter adventure holiday, then this is the place to be.
Place to stay: Cottage in Derbyshire sleeps three people and is located in the market town of Bakewell, the home of Bakewell Tart.
If you do one thing: Try out Go Caving as you plunge deep underground and explore the unknown.
11. Norfolk Broads
Location: Norfolk Broads
Best for: Winter wildlife
The Norfolk Broads are a lot quieter in the winter and make it a peaceful place to go and watch some wildlife. Norfolk can also be a great place to get away from busy everyday life and relax in the beautiful countryside.
Place to stay: Cottage in Norfolk which sleeps four is located near Eccles on Sea and offers a cosy lounge with a wood burner and a pretty garden filled with foliage and flowers.
If you do one thing: Go on the Winter Birdwatching Tour in the Norfolk Broads and see everything from geese and cranes to owls and birds of prey.
