Who says you have to wait until summer to start planning a holiday in the UK? Admittedly, outdoor adventures aren’t as appealing when the skies are grey and temperatures plummet. However, many destinations in the UK reach their peak of beauty during winter. In those places, outdoor walks across white-covered fields can be a pleasure, even if it does require wrapping up. And if you don’t want to face the outdoors until spring, you’ll find plenty of indoor activities in these top winter destinations. How to plan a winter holiday in the UK
Edinburgh
With its hilltop castle overlooking the city, Edinburgh is a truly magical place at any time of the year. In winter, snow-covered roofs and cobble-stoned streets make the Scottish capital appear even more enchanting.
Regarding things to do, a tour of Edinburgh Castle always goes down a treat. But if you want to embrace the season, you might want to give some winter sports a go. Ice skating is very popular with the locals at venues such as St. Andrew Square and the Murrayfield Ice Rink.
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds draws visitors from all over the UK thanks to its beautiful countryside vistas and storybook villages, which look even better underneath a blanket of snow. If you want to make the most of the outdoors here, you can sled down the hills near Broadway Tower. Or, you can go hiking to take in the views of the Malvern Hills meadows. Even husky rides are on offer during winter.
Some of the most popular towns in the Cotswolds include Bibury, Castle Combe and Bourton-on-the-Water. If you’re interested in a husky ride, head over to Tewkesbury.
York
If you fancy a journey back in time this winter, pay a visit to York, where you can walk down cobbled-stone streets such as the historic Shambles with a hot chocolate. Major tourist attractions include the monumental York Minster, the York City Walls and the National Railway Museum. Throughout winter, you can take part in activities such as outdoor ice skating and shopping at festive markets.
Brecon Beacons
Of all the countryside destinations that we love during winter, Brecon Beacons in Wales has to be one of our favourites. This mountain range spans an area of around 46,000 hectares, and the sight of its snow-capped peaks is breath-taking. Provided you remember to pack your winter gear, hiking is great fun during the colder months at Brecon Beacons. If you want to cosy up in an urban centre after a day of exploration, you can book a hotel at a nearby major city such as Swansea, Cardiff or Newport.
Cambridge
Home to one of the UK’s most famous universities, Cambridge really is a spectacle regardless of the weather. During winter, frosted buildings look as if they have come straight from a fairy tale, while markets, fairs and festive celebrations take over greenspaces such as Parker’s Pierce.
London
Last but certainly not least, London is a fantastic UK winter destination. The Capital attracts tourists in their masses every season, and it’s no wonder when you consider how many things there are to do that don’t depend on the weather. There are free museums, architectural wonders, historic streets and attractions such as the London Eye. And, of course, there are lots and lots of tours available.
If you’re thinking of planning a holiday to London this year, check out our range of guided tours that can help you truly get to know the city.
