Even while the UK is a stunning destination year-round, there is something about Winter Tourist Locations that brings out its full brilliance. In the winter, everything feels festive and enjoyable thanks to the thatched roofs covered in snow, the frost-covered meadows, and the outdoor skating rinks.
Explore the Christmas markets in London, climb the snow-covered tors in the Dartmoor National Park in Devon, or go sledding in the Scottish Highlands. In the UK, there are so many wonderful Winter Tourist Locations to travel to during the winter. Additionally, you won’t have to battle springtime crowds or object to summer’s exorbitant rates.
While it would be lovely if there were always beautiful blue skies and fluffy white snow in the UK throughout the winter, that isn’t always the case. Pack an umbrella, waterproof shoes (also known as wellies), and layers of clothing because its renowned rainy countries are frequently troubled by chilly drizzle.
Now that you are prepared, use our list of the top UK Winter Tourist locations to plan your brisk but enjoyable trip.
1. York, England
Similar to Edinburgh, York hosts merry Christmas markets. The majority of the city’s streets are occupied by the renowned and award-winning St. Nicholas Fair. Along Parliament Street and St. Sampson’s Square, there is a huge market with 100 wooden chalets, an outdoor ice rink, carol singers, a gigantic illuminated tree, and other festive activities.
Settle in with hot cocoa and explore the ancient Shambles, which will take you to the 13th century. It is a charming, narrow street surrounded by timber-frame medieval buildings that are lined with a variety of unique stores and a Yuletide Village that sells regional arts and crafts.
When you’ve had your fill of holiday cheer, visit the Gothic York Minster, the jewel in the town’s crown. For this top site, you won’t have to fight through crowds to enjoy the revered walls. Then, avoid the crowded sidewalks of the warmer months by ascending the city’s historic walls to take in unrivaled views.
2. The Cotswolds, England
The Cotswolds are among the most alluringly gorgeous places on earth, especially when the quaint, historic towns are covered with snow. Grab a sled and race down the hills near Broadway Tower, or put on your hiking boots and take in the Malvern Hills’ glistening meadows.
Then, proceed to the region’s fairytale villages, which are the genuine highlights. Each village has cobblestone lanes, honey-colored stone structures, and cute thatched-roof cottages, which greatly increase its beauty. You won’t be able to help taking pictures of it or saying an audible “ahh” (or 20) at how adorable it is.
Popular towns like Castle Combe, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Painswick are charming all year round, but without the throngs of tourists that clog their narrow streets in the spring and summer, they appear even more amazing.
Contact Arctic Quest to schedule a husky ride. This innovative Tewkesbury-based business offers unforgettable sled dog excursions. Get the complete mush experience by being drawn by a team of huskies. Warm yourself with hot chocolate by the campfire after your ride.
3. Canterbury, England
Henry VIII referred to County Kent as the “Garden of England” because of how beautiful it is. Even in the winter, this Winter Tourist Locations is not to be missed because of the rolling hills, stunning cliffs, and historic towns. Canterbury is the most alluring of the region’s lovely cities.
Canterbury, like other major English cities, hosts Christmas markets in late November through December and features holiday lighting that is kept up much longer to accentuate the picturesque cobblestone streets.
The Canterbury Cathedral must be visited. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is decorated with Gothic towers that tower over the streets, making it difficult to miss. Its shadow is cast by King’s Mile, a network of twisting alleyways lined with boutique stores and restaurants serving anything from cheese to fine art.
4. Edinburgh, Scotland
The capital of Scotland is magnificent all year round. Romance can be found when you mix historic structures and cobbled streets with a dusting of snow and holiday lights. Were the imposing Edinburgh Castle and its hilltop location mentioned? I warned you it was a special Winter Tourist Locations, especially in the winter.
If you go right before the holidays, the lovely streets will be lined with adorable Christmas markets, lavish lights, and seasonal music. St. Andrew Square and Murrayfield Ice Rink are among the best outdoor ice rinks to explore while wearing a pair of rental skates.
Visitors who come to the country for New Year, also known as Hogmanay, one of the most celebrated festivals, are in for a treat. Edinburgh hosts a three-day celebration on January 1st. Street celebrations, torchlight vigils, and musical performances are on the agenda. On the 31st, it concludes in dramatic fireworks fashion.
5. Bath, England
Bath, arguably one of England’s most opulent and beautiful cities, flourishes in the winter. The town’s Christmas market, which has been named one of the best in the nation, includes more than 170 chalets selling distinctive presents and delectable foods scattered around historic alleyways lined with Georgian structures.
Bath Mozartfest, a nine-day celebration of the renowned composer as well as his contemporaries Beethoven and Schubert, is held in the city every November. World-class musicians perform in over 16 performances in some of the most stunning locations in the city.
The major attraction in Bath is more than two thousand years old and a great spot to warm up. The prestigious Roman Baths, which date back to 75 BCE, are home to historic hot springs and an outstanding spa. Additionally, they remain open until dusk and provide unique three-course holiday meals at the on-site Pump Room Restaurant.
Bath Abbey is very beautiful when covered in snow. Enter the structure for some warmth and take in the carvings of angels and stained-glass windows (the King Edgar Window is very intricate).
Longleat, a nearby noble estate with a safari park, must be visited. Every winter, as part of the Festival of Light, they adorn the house and park with eye-catching outdoor displays, such as an astonishing display of Chinese lanterns.
6. Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
A location can occasionally be so breathtaking that it makes you gasp. Among them is Cairngorms National Park. Even while this Scottish treasure is lovely all year round, there’s something about winter that enhances its stunning features and tranquillity.
The Scottish Highlands’ Cairngorms National Park offers visitors a wide range of activities. In the winter, its high height nearly guarantees there will be enough snow for skiing, sledding, or snowshoeing. Additionally, the absence of leaves at this time of year makes it simpler to see the amazing animals.
Join the Cairngorm Sleddog Center in Aviemore for a dogsledding excursion. The vistas are unbeatable, and the experience is priceless. Then, head to one of the three ski resorts in the vicinity, CairnGorm Mountain, Lecht, or Glenshee, to hit the slopes.
7. Cambridge, England
Cambridge is a wonderful city, and we’re not simply referring to the accomplishments of its brilliant university researchers. Even in the winter, punting on the River Cam is one of Cambridge’s most well-liked pastimes.
The city hosts the annual Big Christmas Lights Switch On in the middle of November. The Mill Road Winter Fair is given to guests a few weeks later. They are treated to joyful music, delectable treats, and even street dance here.
Participate in the enjoyment at Parker’s Piece Park’s Winter Wonderland. You can demonstrate your skating prowess on the covered outdoor ice rink, ride a huge Ferris wheel, or go down an ice slide while you’re here. When you’ve had enough, savor a warm cup of marshmallow-topped hot chocolate.
8. Brecon Beacons, Wales
The Brecon Beacons are well worth a trip during the harshest months, as winter is the greatest time to view a mountain range. This majestic range, which spans over 46,000 hectares, is among the top tourist destinations in South Wales.
The greatest way to enjoy these peaks is by hiking, so if you plan to do so, we advise packing appropriately and preparing your itinerary in advance. In order to avoid getting caught, stay indoors if the weather is poor, tell a friend where you’re going, and pay attention to the tide schedule.
When you are prepared, proceed to the Begwyns. Without having to climb mountains, a straightforward 3.2-kilometer walking track provides breathtaking vistas. Additionally, you won’t get too cold because it only takes an hour.
Would you like a more challenging hike? A difficult route to the top of Pen y Fan, Britain’s highest peak, is the Cwm Llwch from Cwm Gwdi Walk. It will take roughly five hours to finish, be almost 13 kilometers long, and feature an ascent of 576 meters.
