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Colder temperatures usually send the population into hibernation mode, dreaming about when summer next rolls around. But winter needn’t be all doom and gloom, with the right bobble hat and a clear plan in mind, a holiday during the colder months can be a magical experience and you don’t need to go far to reap the benefits. The scenery changes dramatically and is beautiful in its own unique way. Not to mention that Christmas is the season’s biggest event, with festivities aplenty.
Here are five of the best reasons to take a winter break in the UK:
1. Icy scenes and Winter Wildlife
Britain is lucky to benefit from very distinguishable seasons. There is a distinctive spring, summer autumn and of course, winter. With these colder months come spectacular changes to the scenery. From snow-topped mountains to frozen lakes, the UK has a range of beautiful sights to offer. You will also find that these beauty spots are quieter during the winter. A national park may be bustling during the hotter months, full of every man, woman, child and their dog; in the winter, however, the children are back at school and many shy away from the plummeting temperatures. Throw on a pair of wellies and a scarf and enjoy the peace the British countryside has to offer.
If you are a wildlife fan you will be pleasantly surprised by the volume of critters you will see when you venture out. Birdwatchers will be pleased to spot birds such as winter wildfowl, roosting birds, visitors from colder climes and woodpeckers.
2. ‘Tis the Season
You can’t mention holidaying in winter without considering the jolliest time of the year, Christmas. The festive season has an abundance of amazing events happening up and down the country, including Christmas markets. Treat yourself to freshly baked mince pies and mulled wine while perusing stalls of handmade gifts and decorations. These markets also often offer festive entertainment such as Santa’s grotto, choirs and lights being switched on, an amazing day out, especially with excited little ones.
If the busy markets aren’t your thing you could always look for Christmas events at stately homes close to where you are staying, such as the Beaulieu Palace House if you are planning a staycation in the New Forest, or Forde Abbey if in Somerset. These events are usually ticketed meaning that attendance is limited to a manageable number.
3. Celebrate Everything British
Perhaps the biggest benefit of staying in the UK is getting to appreciate the best of what Britain has to offer. Seamlessly travel from major cities to serene countryside in less than an hour, exploring heritage sites and landmarks in between. Do not feel as if you are restricted by the mainland’s border, the UK has many islands off its coast which give the feel of a holiday abroad without the cost and having to travel too far.
The Isle of Wight, off the south coast is steeped in British history as well as amazing winter events, but a trip to it doesn’t have to be expensive. A quick ferry ride and a stay at an Isle of Wight caravan park provides a reasonably priced holiday in a place with so much to do for all the family. Whether you are a dinosaur fanatic looking to explore one of the richest places in Europe for dinosaur heritage or you fancy a ride on a hovercraft, this island will ensure you have a holiday to remember, no matter the weather.
4. Spark Romance
There is little that is more romantic than having an excuse to cosy up with a loved one in front of a log burning fire with a glass of wine, and of course winter is the time to do it. A romantic luxury lodge stay can offer the perfect excuse to get close to the one you love and enjoy time some quality time together.
Days spent having romantic walks through frosty forests ending with a soak in a hot tub under the stars can be as an idyllic getaway as a stay in the city of love itself, Paris, but with the added benefit of not having streets and restaurants that are crowded by Christmas shoppers.
Peace and quiet at its best.
5. Grab a Bargain
An obvious reason to take a short break in the UK is to save money. The cost of travelling abroad continues to rise year on year and, according The Guardian this sharp rise in the cost of holidays abroad has led to a staycation boom. The lower cost of holidays in the UK is made lower still by deciding to take it in winter, which can cost up to 50% less than it would in summer.
This means that families who otherwise would have to forgo a holiday can enjoy a getaway that is not only fun and free of crowds but is kinder on the bank balance as well.
