3 Places To Visit In The UK During Winter

A lot of people assume that the UK is nothing but rain and dreary weather during the winter months. However, visiting the UK during the winter stretch is perhaps the best time of year to explore. In the colder months, the UK is a magical place and is home to picturesque winter-scapes, festive activities and plenty of places you can enjoy warming up with a nice drink and relaxing. Unlike the unpredictable UK summer weather, you know what to expect with the winter and this means that you can plan and prepare much better.

There are so many different places to visit in the UK and your trip can be tailored to suit your travel needs and requirements. Whether you fancy hiring a campervan and exploring the coastline or prefer more of a city escape, there are plenty of options to choose from. Let’s take a look at 3 of the best places to visit in the UK during the winter to help you plan and refine your trip!

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is up there with one of the best places to visit in the UK year-round, but during the winter months, it takes on a whole other persona. The city is home to numerous different events and activities to do during the festive season, from a Christmas light show where 1,000 lights are switched on, to the international Christmas Market which welcomes visitors from all over Europe.

As well as this, the city streets are decorated with festive wreaths and garlands and host one of the best street parties in the world to celebrate Hogmanay at New Year's. Edinburgh has plenty to see and do, whether you enjoy a delicious festive afternoon tea at Edinburgh Castle, a chilly, refreshing walk up Arthur’s Seat or a show at one of the many theatres around the city.

The Lake District

The Lake District welcomes an estimated 15 million visitors per year, however, over the winter months, the area becomes quieter and more laid back. If you’re looking for a relaxing winter break, or perhaps want to try and attempt a new winter walk, then a visit to the Lake District is a must. There are plenty of quaint and cosy AirBnBs, as well as luxury hotels fully equipped with roaring fires, to choose from depending on what you want from your trip.

Many of the towns and villages around the Lake District are beautifully festive with their Christmas decorations, offering a snug and welcoming atmosphere. You can warm up by the fire in charming country inns, enjoying a hot chocolate or a warm spiced apple drink. Combined with the breathtaking scenery and landscape, it’s the perfect spot for a winter getaway.

Yorkshire

Yorkshire becomes a region transformed during the winter. The rolling hills take on a frosted appearance and the busy summer beaches become almost deserted, making way for calm and chilly winter walks along the coast. If you’re not looking to spend loads of time outdoors, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, too.

York is home to historic activities such as the JORVIK Centre and York Dungeons. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, then a walk down the Shambles, exploring the different shops can make you feel as though you’re experiencing the franchise in real life - be sure to visit Monk Bar Chocolatiers for a shot of warm, melted chocolate to warm you up!

Over in Leeds, this is the perfect place to catch up on your Christmas shopping, with plenty of high street brands and unique, one-of-a-kind shops. Be sure to pay a visit to Victoria Leeds - a stunning shopping centre in Leeds, for your designer goods and to explore the Victorian Quarter for memorable gifts!