Destinations
5 destinations that are just as great in winter
Who says you need to wait until summer for a relaxing break? From Bath to Edinburgh, here are 5 UK destinations that can make the short, frostier days much better.
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Winter can be a hectic time. If we’re not making our way through the Christmas to-do list, we’re catching up with friends. And if we’re not organising a new year’s party, we’re thinking of ways to keep the little ones entertained at home.
Although magical, it can get busy and repetitive, so it’s time to change it up. Escape and enjoy a winter break this year and experience the magic of the UK outside the summer months.
To help you out, here are 5 destinations that make the perfect winter getaway.
1. The Cotswolds
Swap sand and sea for lush greenery and cute cottages in the Cotswolds this winter.
A protected landscape and official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Cotswolds spans six beautiful counties in south central England, so why not see what all the fuss is about?
You can lose yourself at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Blenheim Palace, a breath-taking country house in Woodstock, or explore the picture-perfect village of Bibury.
And if you’re visiting over Christmas, the Cotswold Farm Park hosts a festive family experience that makes for the perfect day out. Children can visit Father Christmas in his grotto or get creative in the Elf Workshop while you indulge in festive treats like mulled wine and hot chocolate.
Complete your winter adventure with a relaxing stay at The Welcombe Hotel, BW Premier Collection by Best Western, an elegant country mansion that’s just two miles from another must-visit location, Stratford-upon-Avon
2. Cornwall
Cornwall is a popular spot during the summer but it’s extra special in winter too. Not only is it crowd-free, but there’s something magical about the misty mornings.
Immerse yourself in rich history and myths at Tintagel Castle or head down to Land’s End (mainland Britain's most south-westerly point) for some astonishing scenery.
Another cute option is Mousehole, one of Cornwall’s prettiest fishing villages. During the festive season, the village is lit up spectacularly, with visitors coming from miles around to take in the stunning sight. And if you really want to experience a bit of tradition, visit Mousehole on 23rd December when dinner is all about Star Gazy Pie.
3. Edinburgh
Visit Edinburgh and see how the Scots do winter. With fewer tourists around you’re free to explore Edinburgh Castle, walk along the historic Royal Mile, and hike up Arthur's Seat for panoramic views of the city. With cooler temperatures, you can do it all without breaking a sweat, too.
If you want to welcome in the new year, don’t miss out on the city’s Torchlight Procession which winds its way through the heart of Edinburgh, symbolising hope and renewal. Or if you just need some ‘me time’ before the festive period, why not do a spot of retail therapy in the Old Town?
And for those seeking a truly Scottish day out, book tickets to the Scotch Whisky Experience. Journey through the world of Scotch Whisky, see the stunning collection of 3,384 bottles of golden spirit and book a memorable private dinner or whisky tasting session.
4. Rye, East Sussex
Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the season? The charming, quaint town of Rye awaits your presence.
Stroll along the famous Mermaid Street lined with half-timbered medieval and Georgian houses or visit Ypres Tower, built in 1249 to defend Rye from invaders.
Shop in one-of-a-kind antique shops and vintage bookstores or stop by Rye Pottery, a contemporary design-led company renowned for its beautiful handmade homewares. Experience British craftsmanship at its finest and get your hands on some stunning gifts (for yourself or a loved one!). Whatever your itinerary, you can simply enjoy the slower pace of life.
After taking in the wintery beauty of Rye, head to the Best Western York House Hotel which is just an hour away. Soak up the seafront location and enjoy a wintertime walk along the pier.
5. Bath, Somerset
With its cobbled streets, mineral springs and stunning architecture, the historic city of Bath – the only UK city to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is a must-visit during winter.
An award-winning Christmas market fills the streets, with over 200 stalls selling local, handmade products, Royal Victoria Park transforms into an enormous ice-skating rink, and a magical light trail puts the spotlight on Bath’s most iconic streets and buildings.
And while you’re in one of the greatest spa towns in Europe, it makes sense to enjoy a bit of down time. Relax in the spa and reap the benefits of the town’s mineral springs and don’t forget to stop by the Roman Baths which date back to AD 43.
Literature lovers will also want to visit the Jane Austen Centre, where you can celebrate and learn more about Bath’s most famous resident in a classically decorated Georgian townhouse.
Then put your feet up during your stay at Best Western Limpley Stoke Hotel, a magnificent 18th century country house that lies just 10-minutes from the city of Bath.
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