If there’s one thing the British know how to do – and do well – it’s winter. For the outdoor types, that same cold drizzle and biting wind that makes the cities seem so grey at times can also give the rugged countryside a real dramatic kick. Winter can be a great time to travel to the UK with plenty of wild, dramatic and atmospheric landscapes to choose from. Here are our favourite places to visit in the UK this winter.

Wiltshire

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One for the more hearty types, the ancient county of Wiltshire is characterized by wide valleys, dramatic architecture, and that famous ancient monument – Stonehenge. Stonehenge manages to become even more special if you’re lucky enough to see it in the snow.

North Yorkshire

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Here you’ll find the North York Moors and most of the Yorkshire Dales. This is ‘Bronte’ country known for it’s rugged beauty, most of which is protected by a national park status. Also try Whitby Abbey (the ruined Benedictine Abbey shown above)and York for it’s incredible architecture and the largest gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. All particularly beautiful in winter.

Cornwall

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Cornwall is extremely popular all year round especially the summer but the fishing is better in the winter and there are far less tourists. Make sure you make the most of the dramatic winter seascapes and also squeeze in a visit to the Eden Project, a popular all year round attraction.

London

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Where do you start? London welcomes tourists all year round and there’s still plenty to do in the UK capital in the winter. For those looking for something to do away from the cold try indoor attractions such as the Tower of London, shopping or Madame Tussauds. If you visit at Christmas the Oxford Street lights shouldn’t be missed.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a beautiful city and definitely one for fans of history and architecture. Edinburgh has been settled for over 3000 years and over 20% of the entire city is listed as in conservation areas. Don’t forget to stay on for Hogmanay probably the most famous New Year’s Eve party in the world.

Northumberland

Some Geordies would argue that summer never really starts in their corner of Britain. Picturesque Heritage Trails and some of the most breathtaking scenery  in the UK await those hearty enough to face the rain.

Bath

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Somehow, the great British winter seems that little more bearable in one of Baths ancient spas. Also try shopping and sampling some of the city’s award winning independent restaurants – you won’t regret it.

Cambridgeshire

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The ancient city of Cambridge is – of course – famed for having one of the most prestigious universities in the world. But from the dramatic flat fenlands (the marshy region in East England) to the quaint East Anglican villages, Cambridgeshire is renowned for so much more than that. A trip in winter would make it even more atmospheric.

Hampshire

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From the ancient hunting grounds of the New Forest – England’s newest national park – to the lands that inspired the works of Jane Austen, the county of Hampshire will leave your imagination running wild.

Cumbria

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The most sparsely populated counties in the UK is also home to the famous Lake District National Park. Considered to be one of England’s most outstanding areas of natural beauty it serves as an inspiration for artists, writers and musicians. Beautiful and mountainous Cumbria makes an excellent travel destination in both summer and winter.

If you want to make this a winter to remember and fancy a trip to one of the locations discussed above then try Sykes Cottages for a wide range of accommodation catering for families, couples, or large parties. 

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