Best Winter Destinations In The UK
Winter holidays to many are an opportunity to get away and to escape the dreaded British weather. But you shouldn’t be too quick to write off what the UK has to offer for winter travellers. The country has an amazing array of getaway destinations, which are especially perfect for pre-Christmas holidays. If you’re looking for a holiday this winter, then keep these options in mind.
Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital is a perfect winter city to visit, as it offers plenty of indoors activities and sightseeing together with cosy pubs to hide away from the breeze. The city is full of haunting architecture that looks at its best when the winter sun is setting down and the winter lights turn on. The outdoor ice rink will add an element of joy to your holiday and you have plenty of Christmas-focused activities to enjoy.
Lincoln
Another big favourite for a Christmas getaway is the medieval city of Lincoln. The town has been quietly bustling for thousands of years, offering plenty of interesting historical locations to see. The Lincoln Cathedral should definitely be on your list of things to experience and you might also want to pop into the Norman Castle. If you travel near Christmas, the market is perfect for finding unique gifts.
Hawes
Hawes is a fun winter destination, offering a multitude of culinary experiences and outdoor activities. Not only is it home to Wensleydale cheese and therefore promising to melt your heart away, but also it is nearby to one of the country’s best waterfalls. The national park offers plenty of nearby accommodation options, as well as a number of routes you can take to get rid of all those mince pies you’ve eaten over the holidays. Follow the Pennine Way to Hardraw, which will treat you with a pub and a single drop waterfall!
Southwold, Suffolk
The British winter breeze and seaside might not sound like a winning combination, but this might be because you haven’t been to Southwold. The quaint village is a definitely worth experiencing during the summer as well, but the winter weather just adds an element of drama to this quiet place. The stormy sea is extremely relaxing and the local cuisine will sweep you off your feet no matter when you visit Southwold. Many of the local restaurants and pubs have been around for hundreds of years, providing you with a beautiful, quiet spot to enjoy a meal after a brisk walk on the beach.
Bournemouth
If you are looking for a cosy city with enough energy to keep you entertained for a holiday, the Dorset countryside is the place to be. Bournemouth is typically only mentioned as a summer vacation destination, but it’s actually the hidden gem of winter holidays. The city loves Christmas, with nearby towns offering great options for hiring a cabin for your holiday. The Bournemouth Square Christmas Market is a must-see, with its stunning selection of food and gifts to take home.
The Northumberland coastline
Winter is the perfect time to turn your gaze at the night sky, as the darker and clearer night sky offers opportunities to see the stars and Aurora Borealis. While most people jet off to Finland or Iceland to see them, you could stay home as well and simply drive yourself to Northumberland. The coastal towns offer plenty of quirky destinations, with beautiful cottages, and the opportunity to see the stunning display of colour.
London
Finally, we can’t compile the list without mentioning the beautiful capital. Now it might have a reputation of being crowded and overly priced, but holidaying in London doesn’t have to cost a fortune. You can find anything from accommodation to entertainment cheaply, if you just know where to look. So, avoid the crowded tourist areas of central London and stay somewhere a bit further away like East or South London. Look for voucher codes when it comes to theatre shows and eating out to save even more.
The UK is full of fantastic holiday destinations, even in the cold winter months. You should experience the Christmas lights of medieval towns, enjoy culinary discoveries on seaside villages and shop until you drop in some of the best cities in the country. So, pick your winter destination from the above bunch and enjoy a fantastic holiday!