The UK’s winter season brings with it the perfect opportunity for a cosy getaway, whether you prefer snow-covered landscapes, festive city breaks, or relaxing coastal escapes. Winter is an ideal time to explore quieter destinations and experience the beauty of the UK in a different light.
From mountainous adventures to charming towns, here are some of the best UK destinations for a winter break.
The Lake District
The Lake District is one of the UK’s most breathtaking regions, and in winter, it transforms into a peaceful wonderland. The usual crowds thin out, leaving the dramatic scenery of snow-dusted peaks and glassy lakes to be explored in tranquillity.
With its array of walking trails, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventure, even in the colder months.
Spend your days enjoying bracing hikes around spots like Derwentwater or Grasmere before heading indoors to warm up by the fire in one of the Lake District’s many welcoming pubs.
If you prefer a more leisurely experience, stay in a lakeside cabin or hotel and take in the stunning views from the comfort of your room.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a magical city to visit in the winter, particularly if you go in December when the streets are lit up for the holidays.
The city’s Christmas market is one of the best in the UK, and the medieval architecture of Edinburgh Old Town, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, creates a picturesque festive atmosphere.
Edinburgh’s famous Hogmanay celebrations are another winter highlight, drawing visitors from around the world for New Year’s Eve. Even if you visit after the festive season, Edinburgh’s winter charm remains, with cosy cafés, grand museums, and the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city, providing plenty to explore.
Bath
Bath is a lovely destination at any time of year, but during winter, the city takes on an extra layer of charm.
The Georgian architecture looks particularly beautiful when dusted with frost, and the thermal baths at Thermae Bath Spa offer a wonderfully relaxing way to warm up on a cold day.
For history lovers, winter is an excellent time to visit the Roman Baths, as they are quieter than in the summer months.
Bath’s compact city centre makes it easy to explore on foot, whether you’re browsing the independent shops or enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea at one of the elegant cafés.
Cornwall
While Cornwall may be most famous for its summer beaches, it’s also a fantastic winter destination. Coastal walks are bracing and beautiful, with rugged cliffs, dramatic seas, and windswept beaches offering a different side to this popular region. Winter is a time to see Cornwall’s natural beauty at its wildest.
The towns of St Ives and Padstow are particularly enchanting in the winter, with galleries, restaurants, and pubs offering warmth and shelter after a day spent exploring the coastline. Plus, winter is a great time to enjoy the local seafood in quieter surroundings, away from the summer crowds.
Snowdonia
For those seeking a more adventurous winter escape, Snowdonia in North Wales offers some of the best winter hiking and outdoor experiences in the UK. The rugged mountains are often blanketed in snow, making for spectacular views and challenging hikes.
If hiking isn’t your style, there are scenic drives and short walks that offer panoramic views of the mountains and lakes without too much exertion.
Winter is also an excellent time to explore Snowdonia’s charming villages, such as Betws-y-Coed, where you can stay in a cosy cottage or B&B and enjoy local Welsh food.
York
York is a top destination for a winter break, especially for those who enjoy history and culture. The medieval city, with its winding streets and gothic architecture, is particularly atmospheric in the winter months. York Minster, one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe, is a must-see, and winter is the perfect time to explore it without the crowds.
York also boasts a number of traditional tearooms, where you can warm up after walking along the ancient city walls or visiting the famous Shambles.
The city’s compact size and rich history make it an ideal winter city break destination.
Isle of Skye
For those who want to escape completely and immerse themselves in nature, the Isle of Skye is a stunning winter destination. Known for its rugged landscapes, the island’s dramatic cliffs, mountains, and lochs are particularly striking in winter, with snow often covering the peaks of the Cuillin Mountains.
The quiet season means you can explore famous sites like the Fairy Pools, Quiraing, and Neist Point Lighthouse with far fewer tourists around. With plenty of remote cottages and lodges available to rent, Skye is perfect for a peaceful, scenic winter retreat.
