5 OF THE UK’S BEST DESTINATIONS TO TRAVEL TO IN THE WINTER

The summer is over, the cold days are setting in, and all eyes are on our next sunny holiday. However, there are many locations in the UK that are perfect for a winter getaway. We may not get much sunshine during the winter months in the UK, but that doesn’t mean we can’t venture out and make the most of our wonderful surroundings. If you’re lucky enough to have a break from work over the festive period — sorry retail workers — then why not think about a small getaway?

The following guide, compiled by used Vauxhall Corsa dealers, Lookers, provides a selection of 5 of the best places to explore in Britain over the winter months:

Edinburgh

The Scottish capital really comes alive in December. From the Christmas market on George Street, to the, erm, Christmas market in East Princes Street Gardens and the ice rink that’s set up in St Andrew Square, Edinburgh is a great place to head in the coldest of months. If speed skating and mulled wine doesn’t warm you up, give shopping a go and visit the emphatically decorated shops in the city’s centre.

If you don’t get to visit before Christmas, why not head to Edinburgh over Hogmanay? It’s known to be one of the best New Year celebrations, with many street parties, official and unofficial, scattering the city.

Melrose, Scottish Borders

Viewed as many as being the pick of the border’s market towns, Melrose 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 as relaxing or active as you want it to be. Cyclists can enjoy the 4 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

This idyllic Northumberland village is made up of stone houses, market cross, shops and pubs and makes for the perfect 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 too, with Newcastle only half an hour away, and Edinburgh and Leeds both taking two hours.

South Cornwall

If cold weather isn’t really for you, South Cornwall is one of your best options for a UK winter getaway. 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.

Although the National Trust beaches between St Mawes and Veryan Bay may not be top of your to-do list, if you get a crisp day, this desolate walkway could be a relaxing jaunt. 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

In the summer months, tourists flock to East Anglia, but not many choose to revel in its beauty in the colder periods — meaning 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! And with turkey a prominent Christmas feature, why not try a prized Norfolk Black from Peele’s farm? Mussels are also available in many of the area’s coastal pubs, so there are plenty of local delicacies to delve into.

Other ways to get out of the cold is by visiting the region’s abundance of all-year-round attractions. 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 really is a beautiful place and has an array of luxurious locations to take a trip at any point of the year. 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.