As the cold winter days settle in, it’s hard not to dream about the sunnier days. The UK offers many locations that are perfect for a short winter getaway. There are many wonderful surroundings to explore around the UK, despite the lack of sunshine during winter. Why not take some time off work to go on a little winter getaway?
Here, with Lookers, who sell a range of cars including the all-new Vauxhall Corsa, we discuss some of the best destinations to visit this winter:
Edinburgh
The capital city of Scotland really comes alive during winter. Edinburgh Castle should be at the top of your list when visiting the vibrant city. Known as one of the most important landmarks in Edinburgh, this castle sits right at the centre of the city. Edinburgh can get really cold during the winter months so visiting the National Museum of Scotland, right at the centre of the city, can be a great indoor activity to do. This is a fantastic museum and is completely free. You could also give shopping a go and visit the emphatically decorated shops in the city’s centre.
It’s also worth paying Edinburgh a visit late in January for “Burns Night”. This event is in honour of famous Scottish poet Robert Burns and it’s celebrated across the county every year. If you decide to visit Edinburgh later on in February, you might find the city covered in snow. February is considered one of the best months for skiing in Scotland, so the city really has something to offer in every season.
Melrose, Scottish Borders
Melrose, known as the pick of the border’s market towns, has links to Robert the Bruce — his heart is in the romantically ruined Cistercian abbey! With many amazing hiking routes and an awash of cosy public houses, this town also offers a line of beautiful independent shops. In the winter, the scenery is likely to be even more eye-catching with the nearby hills often sporting a dusting of snow, making views very picturesque.
The birthplace of Rugby Sevens can be both relaxing and active as you want it to be. Cyclists can enjoy the four Abbeys circular cycle route where they can link all four Border abbeys, while walkers can head up the Eildon Hills and Scott’s View.
Corbridge, Northumberland
Made up of stone houses, market cross, shops, and pubs this idyllic Northumberland village is perfect for a winter getaway. Its infrastructure and quaint design mean that it’s an ideal spot for a brisk walk in the wintry air. With a bunch of shops that allow Corbridge to punch above its weight on the retail front, there’s a host of antiques, fashion, shoes, kitchenware and jewellery abodes to choose from. The benefits of going in the winter is the fact that shops stay open later as of 5th December, and the Market Place sees stalls jostle for space and custom.
It’s very well connected to Newcastle (only half an hour away), and Edinburgh (two hours away) and Leeds (also two hours away).
South Cornwall
The beautiful South Cornwall could be a great option for a UK winter getaway if you love beaches. Often, you’ll find the daffodils flowering in December and camellias blooming at Christmas time. But it’s not just the cooler climes that make South Cornwall a great getaway.
You could take a relaxing walk at the National Trust beaches between St Mawes and Veryan Bay. If the winter weather lets you down, there are many indoor activities to tickle your fancy, including the Blue Reef Aquarium, Bodmin & Wenford Railway, and Bodmin Jail.
East Anglia
East Anglia is a very popular destination during the summer months, with tourists filling each corner. However, it does get quieter in the winter, so this little gem can be your perfect quiet getaway. Head to the frost-covered banks and you may be lucky enough to partake in a bit of otter spotting! Mussels are also available in many of the area’s coastal pubs, so there are plenty of local delicacies to delve into.
There are many other attractions to visit across the region all-year-round to help you escape the low temperatures. This could include tasting Norfolk’s history by visiting its medieval castle or Norman cathedral. There’s also the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts at the University of East Anglia to make sure you stay busy.
The UK definitely has a great variety of stunning locations that you could explore in the winter and all-year-round. With a bit of planning, you could find that a winter holiday can blow away any negative feelings brought on by the cold and dark nights. Above are just five of many options available to take advantage of.
