Britain might not be the warmest place to spend your winter holidays, with temperatures rarely hitting double figures during the winter months. But, there are many great destinations to visit around the UK even when the weather isn’t the best.

In this short guide, we’re going to show you some amazing local British Getaways so you can relax and escape the stresses of day-to-day life. From Shetland to Dartmoor, we’ve covered the length and breadth of the nation to find you the best winter escapes!

Lake District

The Lake District is beautiful at any time of year. Although it might be cold in winter, you can enjoy a relaxing soak in a hot tub with incredible views of the hills and lakes sprawling out in front of you. And, many holiday rentals in the area also feature open fires so you can warm up after a day out exploring the beautiful countryside.

You’ll find plenty of holiday cottages for rent in the Lake District, whether you are a couple looking for some quality time together or need something larger for the whole extended family to meet up. You might even find that prices are not as high during the winter as they are in the peak summer months.

The range of scenery in the Lake District means every walk you go on is sure to be stunning. From rivers and waterfalls to thick woodland, there’s so much more to see than the lakes! There are also plenty of towns and villages in the area, so if you need to stop in for a warming drink after a chilly walk, there is an abundance of tearooms and coffee shops to choose from.

New Forest

The New Forest National Park is another perfect countryside escape for couples to enjoy this winter. Don your walking boots and explore miles of uninterrupted woodland, or head out to the open moorland, where you might be lucky enough to spot some of the free-roaming New Forest ponies.

If you need a break from walking, wrap up warm and find a spot to enjoy some stargazing. The New Forest National Park enjoys some of the darkest skies in the country, thanks to the lack of light pollution, so it’s the perfect place to spot constellations and planets.

From holiday cottages to country hotels, there’s accommodation to suit everyone in the New Forest. And, if you are looking for more of an adrenaline-packed break, why not try a kayaking adventure or a challenging high ropes course?

Yorkshire

Yorkshire offers plenty of entertainment for couples and families alike, and it is relatively easy to access from most of the UK. So whether you want to relax in a hotel in town or escape to the country in a remote lodge or cottage, Yorkshire offers up something for everyone.

If you want to soak in the beautiful winter scenes in comfort, why not book a lodge with a hot tub? You might even find a hammock and an open fire to relax around whilst you wrap up and enjoy the view.

Head out into the countryside for a walk, and you might be lucky enough to spot some rare wildlife. Or, if you prefer to stay warm indoors, visit one of the area’s stately homes or their tearooms. However, double-check before you go, as not all are open during the winter months.

Dartmoor

Dartmoor National Park is ideal for exploring during the winter when there are fewer crowds than in the busy summer months. There are countless walks to explore around the area, varying in difficulty so you can find something to suit your group and the weather conditions.

From heritage trails to historic railway lines, every walking route offers something different. You can even take a stroll around the stunning Fernworthy Reservoir, where you might be lucky enough to spot some wildlife.

Like the New Forest, Dartmoor National Park has some of the darkest night skies in Britain, making it another perfect spot for stargazing.

Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands is a beautiful place to explore at any time of year, but winter is a great time to visit the area if you can brave the cold. There’s always a good chance of snow in the Highlands during winter, so it’s the perfect holiday destination if you are hoping to see some dramatic wintry landscapes.

As a result, the area is also perfect for a UK ski break – the Cairngorms National Park is home to the UK’s only natural ski slopes. However, if you don’t consider yourself much of an adrenaline-seeker, the Highlands also boasts hundreds of stunning walking trails.

Valley view below the mountains of Glencoe, Lochaber, HIghlands, Scotland, UK

So,  you can enjoy hours of peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And, while you’re in the Cairngorms National Park, keep your eyes peeled for the area’s free-roaming reindeer herd!

There are countless holiday cottages to rent in the area, whether you are looking for something small and intimate with your partner or a large house with en suite rooms for the whole family. And, many also have open fires and hot tubs so you can warm up after a day exploring in the cold!