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9 brrrilliant winter day trips from London

From majestic light shows to new steam-train rides, here are the best winter day trips from London

While there are always more than enough fun things to do in London on any given week, sometimes we all need a little break from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Away from the noise, smog, crowded commuter trains and tourist hordes.

Feel in dire need of some crisp country air, a stiff walk or a serene spa day ? Here are our fave day trips from London to enjoy this winter, all under two hours from Zone 1.

RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from London

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9 cool winter day trips from London

1. For frustrated commuters

Is there anything more magical than a train journey? Okay commuters, let’s rephrase that. Is there anything more magical than an old-fashioned steam locomotive? There are steam-powered train routes across the country, and one of the closest and most charming is the Kent & East Sussex Railway – a route which runs from picture-perfect Tenterden to the small village of Bodiam. All aboard!

Kent and East Sussex Railway . Tenterden, Kent. Trains only run on select dates during the winter months, so be sure to c heck the website for details of departures before setting off.

Get there: 57 minutes by train from London Bridge to Headcorn, then 20 minutes by bus.

2. For the fuzzy-headed

If walking is your thing, make the trip to Oxford for this gorgeous stroll over ancient meadows. Spot ponies, wildflowers and the River Thames looking pretty on this tranquil stretch of common land. And city folk relax: it’s reassuringly close to civilisation and the quaint streets of the university city. After stretching your legs and admiring the views, find a spot by the fire at The Perch, at seventeenth-century thatch-roofed pub framed by an old willow tree. Their mulled cider is worth the trip alone.

Port Meadow , Oxford. Free.

Get there: Around one hour by train from Paddington Station to Oxford.

3. For dedicated drinkers

Warming your toes by a proper fire is one of the best things to do in the chillier months, and nowhere does roaring blazes better than a country pub. Spend an afternoon hopping from one cosy boozer to another along Rye’s cobbled streets. Grab a log-side seat and a Sussex real ale in The George (High Street) before heading to the Globe Inn Marsh (Military Road) for a toasty hour or two with a warming glass of red in hand. As the temperature plummets, trot back into town and pull up a chair beside the ancient Mermaid Inn’s enormous fireplace (Mermaid Street). Fun fact: it comes complete with priest’s hole (no sniggering, please) and is where local smugglers used to hang out in the 1700s.

Rye , East Sussex.

Get there : around one hour 30 minutes by train from London St Pancras International; around two hours 30 minutes by car.

4. For the always-peckish

We’d have to concede that here aren’t many British winemakers who can hold a candle (or a flute?) to our cousins across the Channel, but the fizz fanatics at Chapel Down are a celebrated exception. Skip the trip to Bordeaux and instead head out on a tour of this Kentish vineyard to whet your appetite, before settling down for a tutored wine tasting. Each glass of vino will be paired with an English cheese – we’re talking hard, full-flavoured rounds and seriously strong blue stuff with grapes and crackers. Be sure to chuck on your stretchiest trousers.

Chapel Down Cheese and Wine Pairing . Tenterden, Kent. Various dates. £65 per person.

Get there: 55 minutes by train from London Bridge to Headcorn then taxi; around one hour 45 minutes by car.

5. For the bold and the brave

Stripping down to your swimmers might not seem like an obvious wintertime activity, but Thames Lido is a real delight, whatever the season. Brave the chill in the air to spend a softly lit evening in this whimsical, Grade II-listed stunner. The pool, heated to around 23 degrees, might feel a little fresh, but you’ll soon warm up after a turn in the open-air hot tub and colourful sauna. Your post-swim reward is a festive two-course dinner in the twinkly poolside restaurant. Who said lidos are just for summer?

Swim . Reading, Berkshire. Starts at £20.

Get there : 25 minutes by train from London Paddington to Reading; around one hour 15 minutes by car.

6. For Dry January conquerors

Reckon you deserve a special treat after making it through the whole of Dry January? Brush up on your cocktail-mixing skills at the Bombay Sapphire Distillery, where you can earn all about the gin-making process and explore its botanical glasshouses. Take an hour-long tutored cocktail masterclass to learn how to shake up (and then sample) fruity blends and perfect gin martinis.

Cocktail-making masterclass . Whitchurch, Hampshire. £45.

Get there: 55 minutes by train from London Waterloo to Overton, then bus; around one hour 30 minutes by car.

7. For burnt out art lovers

A windswept seaside town might not be an obvious choice of destination during the coldest months of the year, but there’s nothing quite like a bracing stroll across an empty beach to jolt you out of a winter slump. Combine it with a trip to one of the UK’s best contemporary art galleries, which is usually blissfully quiet at this time of year (just take note of its Wednesday to Sunday opening hours.) Afterwards, head to nearby restaurant Buoy & Oyster to feast on fish and chips while staring out over the starkly beautiful winter seascape, or grab a warming pint of real ale at cosy, CAMRA-lauded micropub The Two Halves.

Turner Contemporary Gallery . Margate, Kent. Free.

Get there : One hour 56 minutes by train from London Victoria to Margate; around two hrs 40 minutes by car.

8. For crowd haters

When the crowds in central London get too much, ditch Zone 1 for a field in the middle of nowhere. For a day of wintry repose, head to the Cotswolds and stride across some frosty fields. The village of Broadway, with its honey-coloured cottages, sweet shopfronts and rustic pubs, is an excellent place to start. Earn a pub lunch by strolling up to the grand turrets of Broadway Tower and admiring the view or, if you’re feeling energetic, hike part of the bucolic Cotswolds Way from Broadway to pretty market town Chipping Campden. Last one to the pub gets the first round in, yeah?

Broadway , Worcestershire.

Get there : One hour 35 minutes by train from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh then bus to Broadway; around two hours by car.

9. For washing-up avoiders

Home cooks beware: a trip to this humble pub will put your roast dinner to shame. It’s worth it though, just to say you’ve been to the only pub in the UK with two Michelin stars: Tom Kerridge’s The Hand and Flowers. There’s no dry Sunday roast here, more like loin of Cotswold venison with maple-roast pumpkin or beer-roast chicken with salt-baked celeriac. And if all that sounds catastrophically out of your budget, pull up a stool at Kerridge’s pub The Butcher’s Tap, scoff a pork pie and take on the locals at the weekly pub quiz.

The Hand and Flowers. Marlow, Buckinghamshire.

Get there: One hour 30 minutes from Paddington to Marlow, changing at Slough and Maidenhead; one hour 20 minutes by car.

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10 wonderful winter day trips from London

By Emma Love

CANTERBURY, KENT

Reason to go: to see Britain’s most famous cathedral Train time from London: one hour 40 minutes

The winding, medieval streets that surround Canterbury Cathedral are not just preposterously picturesque – they also hide smart restaurants, boutiques and a smattering of lovely pubs to wait out chilly afternoons by the fire. Surrounded by city walls, Canterbury has been drawing pilgrims for centuries. Now it’s a hub for history-loving travellers, with even more making the journey following the opening of The Pig at Bridge Place . This smart, red-brick hotel set in five rolling acres is Kent’s most coveted hideout.

CASTLE COMBE, COTSWOLDS

Reason to go: for wintry walks Train time from London: two hours 30 minutes

Randomly pick out a spot on a map and you’ll be hard-pressed to happen upon a village in the Cotswolds that isn’t a chocolate-box delight in the winter. But sleepy Castle Combe is one of the loveliest of them all. The cobblestone streets run alongside the Bybrook River and there’s a bracing five-and-a-half-mile walking route for tramping across the countryside in muddy wellingtons. The town even appears as a backdrop for period dramas including Downton Abbey and War Horse .

YORK, YORKSHIRE

Reason to go: to discover this old-meets-new city of the north Train time from London: one hour 52 minutes

York is one of those cities that somehow manages to balance its historic past with of-the-moment independent vintage fashion boutiques, cool neighbourhood coffee shops and interesting art galleries, all within its 13th-century walls. Stroll through narrow streets such as The Shambles, lined with over-hanging timber-framed buildings and gawp at the stained glass windows in the magnificent Gothic York Minster cathedral. And no visit is complete without sitting down for proper afternoon tea at the institution that is Bettys.

BRUTON, SOMERSET

**Reason to go:**this is the coolest corner of Somerset Train time from London: two hours nine minutes – more like two hours 30 minutes

The West Country home of art venue Hauser & Wirth is also the location of The Newt , a hotel on an extraordinary restored estate. Visiting after all the excitement of the summer season means you’re more likely to have all those glorious woodland paths, still ponds and apple orchards to yourself (plus, imagine the pretty Narnia-like landscapes, all dusted in snow). Warm up over lunch in the restaurant (menus are dictated by produce from the garden) or for world-class art , head to the Hauser & Wirth gallery a 10-minute drive down the road.

RYE, EAST SUSSEX

Reason to go: curio hunting in bric-a-brac shops Train time from London: one hour six minutes

This pretty town is ridiculously charming, all cobbled streets and wonky timbered medieval houses. And there’s nothing more satisfying than a few hours spent rootling through the quirky bric-a-brac shops and interior stores (McCully and Crane, The Confit Pot) for one-off finds before settling down for an afternoon film in the timber-clad former Victorian school turned two-screen Kino Cinema. A 15-minute bus ride away, Camber Sands is the seaside spot for a blustery coastal walk besides crashing waves.

BATH, SOMERSET

Reason to go: for a dip in the thermal baths Train time from London: one hour 30 minutes

The entire city of Bath is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which goes some way to explaining its sheer charm. Even in winter, the swathes of honeyed-limestone buildings stacked neatly into crescents are lovely to wander along on a bundled-up stroll. Warm up afterwards with a dip in one of the city’s natural hot springs, which were developed by the Romans thousands of years ago – most have been given slick makeovers and are now surrounded by concrete and glass. We particularly like Thermae Bath Spa for its heated rooftop pool.

WINCHESTER, HAMPSHIRE

Reason to go: for a spin around the ice-rink Train time from London: 57 minutes

Sure, there are plenty of pop-up ice skating rinks in London to entice skaters each winter but none has a backdrop quite as special as Winchester Cathedral. Set up in Cathedral Close, surrounded by one of the best Christmas markets in the UK , the rink is decorated with festive strings of white festoon lights and a huge bauble-and-bow-laden tree in the centre. There’s a clear roof too, so you can lace up your skates for a whirl around the ice whatever the weather. Pre-booking is essential, especially at weekends.

STRATFORD, WARWICKSHIRE

Reason to go: to watch new plays in the Bard’s home town Train time from London: two hours three minutes

Swap children’s panto for the Royal Shakespeare Company with a jaunt to Stratford-upon-Avon . The town has three theatres, including The Swan, by the river. While you’re there, be sure to visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, family home and the gorgeous 500-year-old thatched cottage where his wife, Anne Hathaway, grew up. There’s a sculpture trail and nine acres of woodland gardens, too.

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MARGATE, KENT

Reason to go: nothing beats a day by the sea Train time from London: one hour 28 minutes

Margate is a seaside town that promises fun, fun, fun (even in dreary mid-winter) whether you fancy the retro roller disco at Dreamland amusement park or renting a bicycle to pedal breezily along the promenade. For out-of-the-ordinary gifts check out Mor, which sells cherry-picked homeware and Haeckels, known for its natural skincare products. Down by the harbour, don’t miss the Turner Contemporary art gallery or Peter’s Fish factory, which serves up the best cod-and-chip takeaway in town.

OXFORD, OXFORDSHIRE

Reason to go: the atmospheric architecture and rainy-day museums Train time from London: one hour

When the fog rolls in and the church bells peal, wandering along Oxford’s narrow alleyways surrounded by golden stone buildings and soaring spires feels like stepping into a Dickensian novel. As well as the university colleges and the Bodleian Library (one of the oldest in Europe ), the biggest draw is the museums. First up is the Ashmolean, where art and archaeological treasures range from Islamic lamps to Egyptian mummies and an original, well-preserved Stradivarius violin; then there’s the Pitt Rivers Museum, stuffed with South American shrunken heads, Mexican masks and Nigerian headdresses.

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Visiting the UK in winter (Ultimate guide + top tips)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 8, 2023

Are you visiting the UK in winter (or considering it!) and want to know the best places to visit and must-do experiences? We have you covered with UK winter travel inspiration plus practical tips to make the most of your trip wherever you go.

Many people assume that the UK is nothing but rain and chilly weather during winter. However, it’s actually one of the best times to visit. The UK in the colder months of winter can be magical with picture-perfect landscapes, festive activities and cosy pubs where you can warm up with a hot drink or enjoy a delicious meal after spending the day making the most of your UK holiday.

In this article, discover the advantages (and disadvantages) of planning a winter vacation in the UK, the best places to visit (and must-do experiences to include in your UK itinerary), the best places to stay plus answers to frequently answered questions. We have also included practical tips to ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible.

Advantages of visiting the UK in winter

Disadvantages of visiting the uk in winter, the lake district , peak district, scottish highlands, the cotswolds.

Bannau Brycheiniog (formally known as the Brecon Beacons)

Northumberland

Dartmoor national park, when is winter in the uk, how many hours of daylight are there in the uk in winter, is it better to visit the uk in winter or during other times of the year, how cold is the uk in winter, what to pack for the uk in winter, how can i travel around the uk in winter.

If you're planning a trip to the UK in winter add these experiences to your bucket list.

Planning your UK trip

Visiting the uk in winter.

For those on a budget visiting the UK during the winter months is ideal. From about November through to February (excluding December, Christmas, and New Year) is considered low season with accommodation cheaper than at other times of the year.
In the winter major attractions are not as busy. For example, you’ll often be able to enjoy iconic London attractions such as the London Eye or Buckingham Palace without the long queues.
Many UK cities, towns and villages have a festive feel with Christmas lights, decorations and other seasonal treats including traditional foods such as mince pies which you can enjoy without the hustle and bustle of large crowds.
Many towns and cities in the United Kingdom hold specific activities to celebrate the festive season. York, Edinburgh, and Birmingham are among the numerous cities that feature an annual Christmas market where you can sample traditional cuisine, crafts, and entertainment.
You can cosy up in a friendly fire-lit pub with a glass of mulled wine or craft beer.
If you want to experience a genuine English Christmas with roast dinners, family time walks in the snow, and seasonal markets, visiting the UK during the winter is a must.
The winter months provide a unique atmosphere to the countryside, with frost-covered fields and often clear bright blue skies.
There is the possibility of taking part in special events such as Hogmanay in Edinburgh.
The days are shorter. If you don’t like getting up early or staying out late, then visiting during the winter period (November – February) may not be for you. In addition, many attractions (including National Trust properties ) close or have shorter opening hours. This means you may not be able to see and do as much as you want.
The weather can be cold especially if you are visiting places in northern England, Scotland or other parts of the UK where snowfalls are common during winter.
Winter is the rainiest season of the year so car journeys can take longer due to poor visibility.
Snow and ice make road travel more challenging and may make it harder for you to get around.

Best places to visit in the UK in winter

Edinburgh fireworks at Hogmanay is a popular event in the UK in winter.

Edinburgh is one of the best destinations to visit in the UK in winter and particularly during the festive period. The Scottish capital hosts numerous events and activities in the build-up to Christmas including a fantastic light show on Princes Street Gardens where more than 1,000 fairy lights are switched on for the Festival of Lights.

Every year in early December the Edinburgh International Christmas Market in nearby George Street welcomes visitors from all over Europe to sample a variety of festive treats and enjoy live entertainment.

In addition, the city’s streets are adorned with beautiful wreaths and garlands, while families travel from far and wide to see one of the largest decorated trees in the UK in the centre of the city.

The start of a new year is heralded with one of the best street parties on earth at Hogmanay, the world-renowned Scottish New Year.

The city centre is closed to traffic for the huge street party on 31 December where up to 100,000 people join in a mass rendition of Auld Lang Syne (the New Year song) at the stroke of midnight.

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations continue until mid-morning with a family fireworks display and live music.

Bannau Brycheiniog ( formally known as the Brecon Beacons )

Bannau Brycheiniog in Wales is one of the UK’s top walking destinations and with over 900 miles of footpaths visitors can enjoy exploring the beautiful countryside on foot. Well-maintained trails include the popular Beacons Way which follows the path of a disused railway line and takes about 6 days to complete.

There are also numerous activities offered in the region including mountain biking, caving, kayaking and canoeing. Visitors can enjoy New Year’s Eve at Cardiff City Hall with an evening of food and entertainment followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the bay.

Winter view over Northumberland landscape.

Northumberland National Park is England’s largest national park covering some 21% of this north eastern county of England. Visitors come to enjoy its stunning scenery, dramatic coastline and peaceful rural villages .

The park is perfect for outdoor activities including walking, cycling (road or mountain), climbing, running or horse riding across the beautiful landscape. The area also has a vibrant culture and tradition with numerous creative industries on offer throughout the winter including art, craft and music plus an exciting calendar of festive events.

Take a drive along the Northumberland coastal route and stop along the way at some of the beautiful seaside towns, villages and castles. Pop into the famous Barter Books in Alnwick with its open fires and comfy chairs – perfect on a cold winter’s day.

Northern Ireland is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the whole of the UK with rolling hills, coastal shores and lush countryside.

In Belfast, visitors can enjoy celebrations such as festivals, markets and events over the festive period including ice skating at City Hall Square (Boutique Winter Festival), Belfast’s Christmas boat parade on the River Lagan and a spectacular firework display at Titanic Slipways.

In winter, Belfast has a packed events calendar with everything from live entertainment, markets and food festivals to culture and theatre.

Dartmoor is a vast expanse of unspoilt and stunning countryside in South Devon. Visitors enjoy walking, cycling and horseriding over the rolling landscape as well as exploring local villages and towns including historic Okehampton and picturesque Tavistock.

The area is also home to Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre which offers award-winning exhibitions about Dartmoor’s fascinating wildlife (including the famous ponies which roam Dartmoor), landscapes and cultural heritage. The site boasts a café, shop and free exhibition galleries packed with interactive exhibits for all the family to enjoy.

For an unforgettable New Year celebration in Dartmoor why not join one of the Bronze Age Nights themed events where guests can enjoy storytelling around a campfire, horseriding and marshmallow toasting. These events take place throughout the winter season so visitors can enjoy experiencing time-honoured festivities from years gone by!

FAQs – Visiting the UK in winter

Red phone boxes covered in snow in London.

Winter officially runs from 1 December to 31 March. During December, January and February you are more likely to experience colder weather than at other times of the year.

During December the UK gets an average of only 8 hours of daylight. In Scotland, the shortest day has just under 7 hours of daylight.

It depends on what you want your holiday experience to be like. Travelling during summer will give you a chance to enjoy warm temperatures and take advantage of long sunny days.

Visiting between spring and autumn provides a better chance of nice weather and you’ll avoid the crowds. But there’s something truly special about visiting the UK at Christmas time plus of course it has the added benefits of lower costs and fewer tourists!

Read more – When is the best time to visit the UK?

If you’re visiting the United Kingdom in the winter (the coldest months), you should prepare for cold and damp with temperatures averaging around 5°C (41°F) but as low as -4°C (25°F) in northern parts of Scotland.

Expect more than the odd rainy day (after all it is the UK!)

“There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes.” (Alfred Wainwright) It can get pretty chilly in the UK in winter so packing a waterproof winter coat and boots, warm clothes and a hat, scarf and gloves are all recommended.

We recommend wearing layers so you can adjust your clothing to suit the environment as it can be stifling in shops and on public transport in winter.

Read more – What to pack for the UK (all seasons)

If you’re planning to hire a car for your UK winter visit, check the weather forecast beforehand so that you know what conditions to expect. Driving in winter can be challenging especially on wet roads or if there’s ice and snow.

If you are travelling by train and there is an adverse weather forecast check the status of your train on the National Rail Enquiries website.

If you’re planning a trip to the UK in winter add these experiences to your bucket list.

See a pantomime dame perform as your favourite festive character. There are pantomimes at theatres across the country, from London’s West End to small village halls.
Take a walk in one of England’s national parks: choose Snowdonia in Wales or the Peak District and Yorkshire Dales in northern England for snowy landscapes and mountains capped with white snow – perfect if you like walking and winter sports.
Spend Boxing Day (Dec 26) shopping in the sales. If you’re a fan of bargain hunting and limited edition, luxury pieces – it’s the one day to take advantage of great discounts.
Try out your ice skating skills at Somerset House in London, Manchester’s Platt Fields Park or Hyde Park in Leeds.
Visit the world’s most festive capital city, where everything is beautifully lit up with Christmas lights. Spend an afternoon wandering around Oxford Street to see the window displays in department stores.
Visit some of the UK’s Christmas markets for local crafts, food and gifts for family and friends.
Try mulled wine or hot chocolate with homemade mince pies.
Snuggle up in a warm cosy pub with an open fire.
Go to a carol service or even sing in one if you are brave enough. Singing is not mandatory but it does add to the festive spirit of the occasion!
Go to the New Year’s Eve party in Edinburgh.
See Edinburgh, Bath, York or other UK cities illuminated with festive lights.

Night in London with snow and twinkling lights in the trees.

If you want to drink mulled cider (or wine) in a cosy pub, toast marshmallows over an open fire and enjoy some festive cheer then the winter (and especially December) is the perfect time to visit the UK!

When to visit – Guide to UK seasons
UK travel inspiration – Staycation guide
Planning – Plan your UK trip in 10 easy steps
Accommodation – Where to stay
Book your trip – Best UK booking sites

Visiting the UK (seasonal guides)

UK in autumn (fall)
UK in summer
UK in spring

Visiting London (monthly & seasonal guides)

London in winter
London in spring
London in December (and podcast)
London in January
London in February
London in March
London in April

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Best Day Trips from London in Winter (Cities and Castles!)

Are you looking for the best day trips from London in winter? Here’s a full list!

The charming city of London has so much to offer tourists, whatever the season.

Enjoy attractions like Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and the incredible London Eye, where you can take in panoramic vistas of the city centre.

Plus, London at Christmas is really something special.

However, there are plenty of winter day trips to take from London as well.

From historic cities like Bath, Oxford and Exeter to the UK’s most epic castles, this blog post lists all of the best day trips from London that you can take in the cooler months!

You could even take a hop across the channel and visit the French capital, Paris! Here’s my list of the best.

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips from London in Winter

This is one of the best winter day trips that you can take from London.

Not only does it have lots of indoor attractions like the Thermae Bath Spa and the Jane Austen Museum , but the glorious cobblestone streets are incredibly charming to walk around in the cooler months.

Plus, Bath is the only spa town in the country with natural warm waters. Bath Thermae Spa is the ideal space to soak in after a day’s exploring in the cold!

There are also many charming historic pubs to enjoy a pint in at the end of the day.

And, if you’re visiting during the festive period, Bath Christmas market is one of the best in the UK.

You can easily reach Bath Spa Railway Station from London Paddington Station, or there are National Express coaches.

Alternatively, you can click here to book a day tour that takes you from London to Stonehenge and then to Bath!

While Bristol isn’t as well known as nearby Bath, the British city is still a great day trip in both the winter and summer months.

There are so many things to do in Bristol in the winter, including the SS Great Britain boat which was made in the city, the world-famous Clifton Suspension Bridge and the outdoor art gallery of street art at Stokes Croft and Southville.

As some of Bristol’s attractions are outside, you might want to wrap up in a warm coat to explore, but this is very feasible throughout the winter!

If the weather isn’t so kind, there are hundreds of incredible pubs, cafes and restaurants in Bristol – I’m a bit biased (I lived there for six years and it’s my favourite city), but I think it has the best food scene in the UK.

At Christmas, there’s a festive market in Cabot Circus, with lots of stalls selling local handicrafts and food vendors.

To get to Bristol from London, you can take a train from London Paddington Station. It takes around one hour 45 minutes.

The charming Cotswold villages are what spring to many people’s minds when they think of the UK.

While they are popular in the summer, they’re especially charming in the winter months.

Imagine gorgeous chocolate-box villages sprinkled with a dusting of frost, with charming pubs and boutique stores.

There are so many amazing villages to visit in the Cotswolds.

Enjoy Stow on the Wold with a charming Medieval church built into a tree, Tetbury which is the home of HRH Prince Charles and the charming canals of Bourton on the Water.

Public transport isn’t great in the Costwolds.

The best way to visit the region is either to drive yourself or book a tour. You can browse tours here.

Hever Castle

Hever Castle is one of my favourite London day trips, and it’s open throughout the winter.

It was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s second wife. After she was executed, it came under the control of Henry VIII, and eventually was owned by his fourth wife, Anne of Cleves!

Nowadays, you can enjoy a water maze, a normal maze and landscaped gardens which were created by a Victorian botanist.

To reach it, you can take a train from London Bridge directly to Hever and then either walk for 20 minutes or take a local taxi. Here’s a local taxi number .

Windsor Castle

This is another incredible castle to visit near London – and as it’s open all year round, it’s perfect to add to your itinerary for London in winter !

Windsor Castle is the Queen’s current residence, and it’s the oldest inhabited castle in the world!

There are so many incredible spots in Windsor Castle. Explore the State Rooms, see St George’s Chapel where Meghan Markle and Prince Harry got married.

It’s also worth wrapping up warm and walking down the long walk, where you can get an epic vista of the castle, and in the deer park.

You can purchase your ticket to Windsor Castle here.

Windsor town is also worth walking around – don’t miss Queen Charlotte Street, which is just 52 metres long and is apparently the shortest street in England!

You can take a direct train to Windsor from London Waterloo Station.

The beautiful city of Oxford is one of the best places in the country to visit on a day trip. While in warmer weather you can go punting on the river, there’s still plenty to do in Oxford in winter too.

It’s home to one of the oldest universities in the world, which dates back to 1096.

For starters, walk around the town centre and admire the University of Oxford ‘s buildings like the Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Library.

You can do a creepy tour around Oxford Prison (the perfect winter activity when the nights are dark!) or explore the many museums, including the Oxford University Museum of Natural History and the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology .

When you get cold, drop into some of Oxford’s cosy cafes and historical pubs like the Turf Tavern , which dates back to 1381.

Just out of town, you’ll find Blenheim Palace, which is the only non-royal palace in the country. It was where Winston Churchill, one of Britain’s most famous and controversial prime ministers was born.

Home to beautiful gardens and magnificent rooms, it’s a snapshot of Britain’s historical country estate culture.

You can easily take a train from Oxford to London Paddington. The cities are also connected by the Oxford Tube, a regular bus that takes around 90 minutes. To reach Blenheim Palace without a car, you can take the number 7 bus from central Oxford.

Oxford’s rival university town, the ancient city of Cambridge is an alternative day trip.

Like Oxford, it has a historic university spread over the city centre, and you can go on campus tours to learn all about its history.

Other attractions include the Fitzwilliam Museum , which is an art gallery, and the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology .

Like Oxford, there are also plenty of historic pubs to shelter in if the weather isn’t so kind when you visit! Try The Eagle, which dates back to the 14th century.

To reach Cambridge, take a train from King’s Cross. There are also National Express coaches available.

It’s potentially the most loved coastal town near London – but is it worth visiting in the winter months? Absolutely yes!

While the seaside is a lot chillier – and I doubt you’ll be taking a dip in the sea – you can explore areas like the Brighton Laines, see the beautiful Brighton Pavilion, take in coastal views and take in its incredible food scene.

Somewhere I really want to visit (and a must if you’re veggie) is the No Catch vegan fish and chip restaurant there. The reviews are incredible!

Of course, if you eat fish, there are plenty of fish and chip restaurants (we call them “chippys” in the UK) that are open year-round.

To reach Brighton, it’s an easy train journey from either London Bridge or London Victoria. Coach routes are also available.

Other seaside towns close to London include Eastbourne, Margate and Herne Bay.

Harry Potter Warner Bros

The Harry Potter Studios are a must-visit day trip, and because they’re all indoors, they’re great for the winter season!

In fact, the studios have themes throughout the year – if you’re visiting during the festive months, don’t miss Hogwarts at Christmas for epic decorations.

You’ll see the classic settings like Gryffindor Common Room, the Forbidden Forest and Gringotts Bank. There’s so much to explore here!

You have to book your ticket in advance before heading to the studio tours – if you can’t get them in time, you can book a tour which includes transport from London. Click here to read more about this.

Plus, if you’re a Harry Potter fan, don’t miss seeing platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross and doing a Harry Potter tour around the famous sights of London!

Stonehenge

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stonehenge is a bucket list destination in Wiltshire.

The ancient stone circle has Pagan traditions, and nobody’s completely sure how they actually got there, as they came a few hundred miles away in Wales.

Nowadays, it’s potentially the most popular attraction in England outside of London, and if there’s one place that you can’t miss in the country, it’s here!

While it is open year-round, it’s located on a plain, and in bad weather it can be quite inhospitable. We went on the 2nd January last year and it was freezing!

However, it would be lovely on a crisp winters day.

You can get to Stonehenge by driving, but if you don’t have a car, the best way to go is by taking a tour. You can book these on Get Your Guide. Click here to read more about it.

Most people think that Exeter is a bit too far to go for a day trip from London, but it’s actually only 2 hours 10 minutes on the train.

I live down the road in Exmouth and all my family live in London, so I take this journey a lot !

I think Exeter is a really underrated city, and there’s plenty to offer in the winter months as well.

If you like Cathedrals, Exeter’s is one of the most impressive in the country, with the longest uninterrupted Medieval gothic vaulting in the world.

There’s also a fantastic museum called the RAMM, and Gandy Street which is said to be part of JK Rowling’s inspiration for Diagon Alley.

Plus, if it’s dry, Exeter Quay is lovely to walk around. (And if it starts raining, pop into Exeter Quayside Distillery and try some of their gins!).

You can easily take a train from London Paddington to Exeter. The coach option might be a little too long for a day trip (it can take four hours).

Leeds Castle

Once said to be “the most beautiful castle in the world”, Leeds Castle is, contrary to popular belief, not in Leeds but in Kent!

The castle was first built as a Norman fortification and was then owned by queens in Medieval times.

It fell into the ownership of Henry VIII for a while, and was lived in by him and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon.

As well as taking in the historical features of the castle, you can walk around the gorgeous gardens and kids will love the playground. The castle and gardens are open year-round, with slightly shorter hours.

To reach Leeds Castle, take a train from London Victoria Station to Hollingbourne. Then, connect by bus 13 to Penfold Hill, from which is a six minute walk to the castle.

Canterbury

Canterbury is another incredible city to visit from London, and as it’s located in Kent (a county that neighbours the capital), it’s super easy to get to!

Attraction-wise, Canterbury Cathedral has been a site of pilgrimage for centuries, ever since Thomas Beckett was murdered there.

There’s also St Augustine’s Abbey, St Martin’s Church and Westgate Towers Museum. You can also see remnants of the city walls.

You can reach Canterbury by taking a train from St Pancras International, or there are National Express buses available. It’s called the 007 bus, which James Bond was named after!

Stratford on Avon

Stratford on Avon is the perfect day trip if you’re a fan of literature; it’s the birthplace of Shakespeare!

Unsurprisingly, the best attraction is Shakespeare’s House . There’s also the Anne Hathaway Cottage (she was Shakespeare’s wife!).

Stratford on Avon is a pleasant enough town, but there’s not a crazy amount of things to do otherwise. So I’d recommend combining a day trip here with a tour around the Cotswolds. You can either self drive or check out this tour.

Highclere Castle

If you’re a Downton Abbey fan, this day trip is a must!

Highclere Castle is Downton Abbey, the family stately home that features in the episodes and films.

The castle isn’t open year-round, and in the winter, you need to visit on a guided tour over Christmas and the wintertime.

You need to book these tickets way in advance – the castle has always been popular, but it’s even more so after the last movie was released!

It’s around a two-hour drive to Highclere Castle, or you can take a bus or taxi from Newbury.

Bicester Village

If you want to shop while you’re in London, head to Bicester Village, an outlet park that offers some incredible designer products at bargain prices.

It’s located in the county of Oxfordshire, a short train ride from the capital.

There’s not a huge amount of other things to do in the direct area, so if you don’t have a car you will be going to Bicester just to shop and then return.

However, it’s worth visiting if you want to check out some of the bargain brands!

You can either travel their independently or do a tour like this one.

This is one of the best UK day trips in November or December when you’re doing your Christmas shopping!

Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace sits just on the outskirts of London, but it’s another castle that is well worth visiting when you’re in the capital.

In fact, this is potentially the most historically significant one in London, the perfect day trip for any history fans!

Hampton Court Palace was the residence of Henry VIII, and nowadays you can explore Henry VIII’s apartments, the Tudor Kitchens and the Chapel Royal.

Plus, it’s open all year round and it’s easy to get to by public transportation.

La Belle Paris! It’s entirely possible to hop across the channel for a day and enjoy a winter day trip to the French capital.

You can do this by hopping on the Eurostar from London St Pancras, which takes you right to the Gare du Nord in Paris.

In the winter season, tickets can be very cheap and the journey time is just 2 hours 17 minutes. So you can literally hop on the first train of the day and be in the French capital enjoying pastries for breakfast by 9am!

The main tourist sites of France don’t need an introduction, but most of them, including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and the Musee d’Orsay are all open in the winter.

Packing list for London winter day trips

Wherever you are going from London, make sure that you bring these items!

Prepare for winter weather, which in the UK is anything from freezing to around 10 ° C (50 ° F) – or possibly a little warmer.

Snow is rare in England in winter , but make sure that you have a thick coat , gloves and a scarf .

Also, don’t forget a water bottle – I love my chillies bottle which keeps cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot! Tap water is usually drinkable in the UK.

Pack a battery pack to ensure that your phone stays charged all day.

Last tips for taking a wintery London day trip

Book train tickets in advance if you can – this will ensure that you get the lowest price. You can use the National Rail website or Trainline.
If you’re taking the coach (which is often a much more economical choice), it’s also a good deal to buy these in advance for the cheapest prices!
If you want to save money, there’s no better lunch in the UK than a meal deal . These are on offer at all supermarkets (such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Co-op and others!). You can get a sandwich/ salad/ pasta, a snack and a drink for just £3!
Wetherspoons pubs also do great budget meals.

From the charming historical cities of Oxford and Bath some of England’s best castles, these are without a doubt the best winter day trips from London. There’s so much on offer just a drive or train ride away, so make sure you factor some of these into your winter trip to the capital!

Claire Martin

Claire is an expert in exploring Europe in the winter! She's from the UK and has been to over 20 countries on the continent in the winter season. She loves every bit of Europe in the cooler months, including finding winter sunshine in Spain, skiing in the Alps and the charm of the Nordic countries in the festive season.

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16 Best Places to Visit in Winter in the UK

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Nov 13, 2023

The UK is a beautiful place to visit at any time of year, but there's something about winter that brings out its true magic. Thatched roofs loaded with snow, frost-laden meadows, and outdoor skating rinks make everything feel festive and fun in winter.

Climb the snow-covered tors in Devon's Dartmoor National Park , browse London's Christmas markets , or sled through the Scottish Highlands . There are so many great places to visit in winter in the UK. Plus, you won't have to fight the spring crowds or balk at summer's high prices.

While it would be nice if the UK was all fluffy white flakes and bright blue skies during winter, that's not always the case. More often than not, its famously rainy countries will be plagued by cold drizzle, so pack an umbrella, waterproof boots (a.k.a. wellies), and a few extra layers of clothing.

Now that you know what to pack, plan your chilly but fun journey with our list of the best places to visit in winter in the UK.

1. Edinburgh, Scotland

2. york, england, 3. isle of skye, scotland, 4. the cotswolds, england, 5. london, england, 6. canterbury, england, 7. bath, england, 8. dartmoor national park, england, 9. cairngorms national park, scotland, 10. oxford, england, 11. the lake district, england, 12. brecon beacons, wales, 13. cambridge, england, 14. the new forest national park, hampshire, england, 15. isle of rona, scotland, 16. st. ives, cornwall, map of places to visit in winter in the uk.

Scotland's capital is majestic in every season. Add a sprinkling of snow and festive lights to the mix of ancient buildings and cobbled streets, and you've got yourself some romance. Did we mention the towering Edinburgh Castle perched atop a hill? Told you it was a magical setting, especially in winter.

Visit before the holidays and you'll be treated to the adorable Christmas markets, extravagant lights, and festive music on offer as part of the Edinburgh Winter Festival . This multi-day extravaganza lights up the city's already charming streets and boasts a fair-like festive atmosphere that draws crowds from across the UK. Lace-up a pair of rental skates and swirl your way around an outdoor ice rink, with St. Andrew Square and Murrayfield Ice Rink top of the list.

Those who visit for New Year's (a.k.a. Hogmanay ), one of the most popular holidays in the country, are in for a treat. Edinburgh celebrates the first of January with a three-day event. We're talking street parties, torchlight processions, and concerts. It ends with a bang fireworks style on the 31 st .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Edinburgh

Like Edinburgh, York also plays host to festive Christmas markets. The famous and award-winning St. Nicholas Fair takes up most of the city's streets, runs from mid-November through to Christmas, and regularly attracts upwards of a million visitors each season. An outdoor ice rink, carol singers, a giant lighted tree, and a vast market featuring 100 wooden chalets line Parliament Street and St. Sampson's Square .

Grab a hot chocolate and wander around the historic Shambles , where you'll be transported to the 13 th century. A narrow street lined by medieval buildings made of timber, it is perfectly captivating and boasts a wide selection of eclectic shops and a Yuletide Village featuring local arts and crafts.

When you've had enough festive cheer, head to the town's crown jewel: the Gothic York Minster. You won't have to jostle through crowds to enjoy the hallowed walls of this top attraction. If you can, try to make it one of the Minster's wonderful Christmas Carol Concerts , as well as the York Minster Christmas Tree Festival.

Another fun thing to do in York in winter is to walk atop the city's ancient walls to enjoy unbeatable vistas without the foot traffic that plagues warmer months.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England

The Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye backed by the snowcapped Black Cuillin Mountains

Scotland's Isle of Skye is one of the most enchanting places in the UK, and possibly the world. This star of the inner Hebrides region has everything you'd hope for in a Scottish vacation, including castles, mountains, and fairy glens. As long as you dress warmly, you can enjoy them all.

Slip on a warm coat and waterproofs for a trip to the Fairy Pools . While you won't want to jump in for a swim (even in summer they're freezing), these lovely pools are worthy of a visit.

Bring your camera, as you'll want to snap a zillion photos of the warm winter light reflecting off the pools and the snowcapped Black Cuillin Mountains towering above them. Speaking of light, winter visitors get an added bonus: it's much easier to catch a sunrise at this time of year.

During summer, the sun makes an appearance at 4am (talk about early!). In winter, it doesn't rise until a more acceptable 9am. The sun begins to set around 3:30pm, showering the sky with remarkable pink hues and sometimes rainbows. If you're lucky, you may spot the northern lights .

While winter may not be the most popular or best time to visit Scotland, it is the cheapest, so you'll be saving a pretty penny when traveling at this time.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in the Isle of Skye

Snow-covered Castle Combe village in the Cotswolds

You'll be hard-pressed to find a more entrancingly beautiful place than the Cotswolds, especially when the region's tiny ancient towns are blanketed with snow. Grab a sled and hurl yourself down the hills near Broadway Tower or don hiking boots to marvel at the shimmering meadows of the Malvern Hills.

Then, head to the area's real showstoppers: its storybook villages . Cobblestone laneways, honey-colored stone buildings, and quaint thatched-roof cottages pepper each town, upping the charm factor dramatically. You won't be able to stop yourself from taking photographs and uttering an audible "ahh" (or 20) over its overt loveliness.

Popular towns like Castle Combe , Bibury , Bourton-on-the-Water , and Painswick are charming at all times but look even more phenomenal without the hordes of tourists that bombard their tiny streets in spring and summer.

Book a husky ride with Arctic Quest Sled Dog Adventures . Based in Tewkesbury , this creative company offers exciting sled dog adventures you won't forget. No snow? No problem. Arctic Quest also has unique sleds with wheels, so you'll get a full "mush" experience (where you're pulled behind a team of huskies) whatever the weather. After your ride, warm up at the campfire with a hot chocolate.

There are many reasons to visit London in winter. The city is adorned with festiveness, stretching from the banks of the Thames River to the vibrant streets near Trafalgar Square . Once it snows, which happens rarely, the city becomes a unique utopia made even more beautiful by the recent dusting.

Take the opportunity to enjoy an empty Tower of London , and snap selfies on the now much quieter streets near Westminster Abbey and Big Ben . Then, skate outside the Natural History Museum or book tickets to a pantomime (a.k.a. "panto") for extra fun.

London's biggest (and busiest) celebration of the season is the spectacular Hyde Park Winter Wonderland . Set in the city's largest green space, this unique take on a Christmas Market runs for six weeks from mid-November through to New Year's Day and features everything from fairground rides to entertainment, shopping, and countless food experiences.

Shoppers unite at Covent Garden , which is peppered with local artisans selling their unique wares. Stick around for one of the impromptu concerts and prepare to be entertained (whether you want to or not) by the numerous buskers.

Those hoping for more highbrow finds head to the city's most celebrated and impressively decorated shopping district found along Regent and Oxford Streets . Snap photos of the adorable window decorations on Carnaby Street (just east of Regent Street) on your way to Hamley's , the city's best toy shop.

The county of Kent is so attractive it was dubbed the "Garden of England" by Henry VIII. Rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and medieval towns make this an unmissable locale, even in winter. Of all the region's beautiful cities, Canterbury is the most captivating.

Like most large English cities, Canterbury plays host to Christmas markets in late November through December and boasts festive lights that stay up much longer to enhance the charming cobblestone streets.

A trip to Canterbury Cathedral is a must. Gothic towers adorn this UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretching so high above the streets that they're impossible to miss. In its shadow lies King's Mile , a collection of winding streets spotted with independent shops and eateries selling everything from cheese to art.

The Pulteney bridge over the Avon River in Bath

Arguably one of England's most elegant and gorgeous cities, Bath thrives during the winter months. The town's Christmas Market has been voted one of the best in the country and features over 170 chalets selling unique gifts and tasty treats set within ancient streets lined by Georgian buildings.

Every November, the city hosts the annual Bath Mozartfest , a nine-day festival honoring the famed composer as well as his contemporaries like Beethoven and Schubert. Over 16 concerts are performed by world-class musicians in some of the town's most beautiful venues.

Bath's main attraction is over 2,000 years old and a perfect place to warm up. Established in 75 BCE, the award-winning Roman Baths boast ancient hot springs and an enviable spa. They also stay open for twilight hours and offer special three-course holiday meals in the on-site Pump Room Restaurant .

Bath Abbey is particularly enchanting when draped with snow. Head inside for some warmth, and admire the stained-glass windows (the King Edgar Window is incredibly intricate) and carved angels found throughout the building.

Visiting nearby Longleat (a stately home with its own safari park) is a must. Each winter, they decorate the home and park with dazzling outdoor exhibits, including an amazing display of Chinese lanterns as part of the Festival of Light .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bath

Sunrise on a snowy morning in Dartmoor National Park

Moody and romantic, England's moors are the stuff of dreams and fairy tales: just read a novel by Emily Brontë!

A sprinkling of snow on Dartmoor National Park transforms this beautiful landscape into a magical winter wonderland. Add roaming ponies, sheep, and cows to the scenery, and you've got a wonderfully bucolic setting.

Located in Devon, a beautiful county on England's west coast , Dartmoor is beloved by outdoor adventurists. Deep river valleys, towering tors, and golden heaths mark this rugged landscape, inviting visitors to bike, hike, raft, or climb its granite boulders. Some even pack a sled (or sledge, as it's known in the UK).

Pack warm, waterproof layers and be prepared to encounter all types of precipitation during your winter visit. Everything from heavy mist to pounding rain to sleet to snow to ice can envelop the area within a day.

River Luineag flowing into Loch Morlich in the Cairngorms National Park

Sometimes you come upon a place so beautiful, it takes your breath away. Cairngorms National Park is one of these places. While beautiful in all seasons, there's something about winter that ups the picturesque qualities, not to mention the tranquillity, of this Scottish gem.

Located in the Scottish Highlands , Cairngorms National Park presents visitors with a slew of things to do. Its high elevation almost ensures enough snow to ski, sled, or snowshoe during the winter months. Plus, the lack of leaves at this time makes it easier to spot the incredible wildlife.

Enjoy skiing? Hit the slopes at one of the area's three ski resorts: CairnGorm Mountain , Lecht , or Glenshee .

Oxford is one of the oldest and most majestic cities in England. History seeps from every crevice of this famed university town, which is spotted with some of the country's most impressive architecture.

It's best to visit the spectacular medieval buildings on foot. Walking tours of all types, including sightseeing tours and those aimed at fans of J.R.R. Tolkien and Harry Potter movie buffs, are available to book at the Visitor Information Center on Broad Street .

On your journey, you'll pass iconic structures like the Bodleian Library and Christ Church Cathedral , which are made even more stunning when sprinkled with snow. For a bird's-eye view, visit Carfax Tower in the center of town before being tempted by the shops and restaurants lining the pretty High Street .

Or climb the tower at the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin. It boasts impressive city and countryside vistas. At night, catch a concert or play at the Sheldonian Theater on Broad Street .

Read More: Top-Rated Places to Visit in Oxford

A winter morning at Rydal in the English Lake District

Cumbria is home to a truly phenomenal area of natural beauty: The Lake District . In addition to the 16 lakes that inspired the region's name, there are majestic mountains, the tallest of which is Scafell Pike ; verdant valleys; and romantic moors. But the fun doesn't stop there.

The towns of the Lake District put on a wonderful show at this time of year. Christmas markets filled with independent booths selling unique gifts spring up all over, including the towns of Windermere , Ambleside , Hawkshead , and Cockermouth .

Ulverston brings life to the classic Charles Dicken's holiday tale, A Christmas Carol . Each year, this historic market town transforms its streets into Dickensian-era markets featuring street performances and residents roaming the area in period costumes at the Ulverston Dickensian Christmas Festival .

Snowcapped mountains in the Brecon Beacons, Wales

Winter really is the best season to see a mountain range, and the Brecon Beacons are more than worthy of a visit during the coldest months. One of the best tourist attractions in South Wales , this dramatic range is breathtakingly beautiful, and it covers over 46,000 hectares.

If you're hoping to hike (which is the best way to experience these peaks), we suggest gearing up properly and pre-planning your route. Don't head out if the weather is bad, tell a friend where you're going, and be aware of the tide schedule so you don't get caught.

Now that you're ready, head to the Begwyns . An easy 3.2-kilometer walking trail offers unsurpassable views without the need to hike up mountains. Plus, it only takes about an hour, so you won't get too cold.

Hoping for a more difficult trek? The Cwm Llwch from Cwm Gwdi Walk is a challenging way to summit Britain's highest mountain, Pen y Fan . It's almost 13 kilometers long, involves a climb of 576 meters, and will take about five hours to complete.

Wonderful things happen in Cambridge, and we're not just talking about the discoveries made by the city's talented university scholars. Punting along the River Cam is one of the most popular activities in Cambridge , even during the winter.

Each year, the city hosts the Big Christmas Lights Switch On , which happens in mid-November. A couple of weeks later, visitors are presented with the Mill Road Winter Fair . Here, they are treated to festive music, tasty treats, and even dancing in the streets.

Join in the fun in Parker's Piece Park , where you can show off your skating skills on the covered outdoor ice rink. When you've had enough, warm up at a cozy cafe with a hot chocolate topped with marshmallows.

Horses grazing in New Forest National Park

England's New Forest National Park is a magical place filled with wild ponies, winding nature trails, and vast fields. The best thing to do in the New Forest is wander, exploring this natural wonderland either on foot or on a bicycle.

Set aside three hours (or two if you prefer walking at a faster pace) and head to Brockenhurst . From here, pick up the Buckland Rings Trail . It will guide you through the dense Roydon Woods nature reserve and over Setley Plain . Finally, you'll arrive at Buckland Rings, a historic site that served as a hill fort during the Iron Age.

Who says you can't enjoy water-based activities in the winter? Certainly not the New Forest Activities center. They boast kayaking, canoeing, and other fun adventures (including land-based activities) throughout the year. No matter what activities you choose, you'll be in awe of the winter landscape in the New Forest.

When it's time to warm your toes by a fire and enjoy a toasty stew, head to Lyndhurst. One of the best small towns in England , this little charmer lies in the heart of the New Forest.

A winter vacation to the Isle of Rona is about as cozy and romantic as you can get in the UK. A small and remote island located between the Isle of Skye and western Scotland, this teeny isle (it's only five miles long) is home to only two permanent residents and four cottages; three of which can be rented.

The cottages are lovely, fronted with stone and topped with slate. They boast underfloor heating and wood burners, so you'll easily beat the chill of a Scottish winter. With no shops or even roads on the island, be prepared to go off grid. You'll have to bring your food and drink with you. Think of it like camping but in luxurious accommodations.

The island itself is what people gravitate towards. It's peppered with varied terrain so beautiful that you'll forget about feeling wet and cold. Secret lochs and coves, rocky outcroppings, mossy woodlands, and of course, the dramatic Sound of Raasay . Wild animals like the red deer, otter, and seals populate the island, and various species of birds can be spotted.

Getting here isn't easy. You'll have to board a boat in Portree, and it only runs once a week. The trip takes about an hour and the walk to your cottage is about a kilometer away.

The charming seaside town of St. Ives in Cornwall is not only one of the best places to visit in winter in the UK for its stunning scenery, but it's also one of the mildest spots in the country at this time of year . Temperatures in this most south-westerly corner of the UK are generally a few degrees warmer, with snow a rarity. It also experiences less rainfall, too, which makes getting outdoors and exploring this lovely coastal town a pleasure at any time of year.

If you can visit in the lead-up to Christmas and New Year, so much the better. December brings with it a wide array of fun things to do in St. Ives, from a lovely lantern parade to a Christmas Market showcasing gifts and crafts made by local artisans. You'll also want to attend a pantomime. These family-friendly sendups of famous fairy tales are held at St. Ives Theatre and are a hoot for all ages, with plenty of jeering and booing expected from the audience.

The post-Christmas period is another good time to visit, with polar dips on Boxing Day for hardy types not averse to a cold swim. New Year's Eve is also fun, with a carnival and parade attracting residents and visitors dressed up in colorful costumes.

Even if you miss the festive season, the stunning coastline around St. Ives offers up memorable experiences of its own. Coastal walks , especially around the South West Coast Path, can be exceptionally atmospheric and beautiful during the winter months.

10 Best Day Trips from London in the Winter

London is one of my favorite cities in the world, but there is much more to the United Kingdom than just London. That’s why I encourage you to do at least one day trip to get a better sense of the country.

In the winter, when it’s cold, you may be tempted to stay in London and visit some of the museums. That’s not the only option. There are some fabulous winter day trips from London that are worth the extra travel time.

In this post, I will share a little more about winters in London and details of the ten best day trips from London in the winter. The hardest thing may be choosing only one.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. Please see the disclosure for more information.

Winter Weather in London

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In general, I prefer warm climates, so the weather in London during the winter leaves much to be desired. It can be cold, gray, windy, and wet. On the bright side, snow is rare.

The other thing you need to keep in mind is that it does get dark early in England during the winter. Once it starts getting dark it does get colder. For the most part, the weather shouldn’t stop you from seeing places as long as you dress appropriately for the cold weather.

The Best Winter Day Trips from London

There are lots of day trips within easy reach of London. Since it is the hub of the rail network, you can get to a lot of places fast. Keep in mind, train tickets can be expensive so you will want to book in advance and buy a specific train time.

In the winter, you do need to think about the weather when deciding where to go for a day trip. Most of the places on this list of day trips from London to do in the winter have indoor attractions.

While England may not have Christmas Markets that are as iconic as ones in Germany and other parts of Europe, there are definitely a few that are worth visiting. I have included those on this list.

In general, since Winter is not the peak tourist season in England, attractions will be less crowded so it’s a great opportunity to see more. Christmas markets are the exception to this rule. Expect them to be busy, especially on weekends.

Also, most of these winter day trips have day tour options. Those are perfect for people who don’t want to deal with public transportation on their own. If you are tight on time, check out these half day trips from London .

If you are interested in art, history, or the Royal Family, then a visit to Windsor is a must. Unlike Buckingham Palace , which is only open for a few months each year, Windsor Castle, where Queen Elizabeth spends most of her weekends, is open year around. It’s a perfect day trip for the winter because you can spend most of your time inside the Castle.

Make sure to get your ticket in advance though. Otherwise, you will be waiting in a long line outside in the cold. If you are planning on doing a day trip to Windsor to see the castle, consider getting the London Pass. It includes both admission to Windsor Castle and your train ticket from London to Windsor. Click here to learn more about the London Pass.

If you don’t have the London Pass, click here to buy your ticket to Windsor Castle in advance .

Windsor Castle is one of the best day trips from London in the winter

Things to do during a Winter Day Trip to Windsor

Arrive early to catch the changing of the guard at 11:00 am.
Do the audio tour (included in your admission price) of Windsor Castle. It will guide you through the Castle including the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel. During December, the castle is all decked out for Christmas.
If you have time after touring Windsor Castle, check out the Windsor Royal Shopping Center , an old Victorian train station now filled with shops and restaurants. It’s nice they still kept many original features including the Jubilee arch, the cobbled stones, and Queen Victoria’s Royal Waiting Room.

How to Get to Windsor from London

It’s easy to get to Windsor from London. It’s a little more than an hour on the train from London Waterloo station. Buy your train ticket in advance to get the best deal. Click here to check the pricing and schedule.

For those that don’t want to venture to Windsor on their own, there are several guided tour options:

Half-day Windsor Castle tour from London
Windsor Castle Tour and Traditional Lunch
London: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Full-Day Tour
Windsor, Oxford and Stonehenge Day Tour from London

Cambridge is a beautiful city that has lots to offer in both the winter and summer. Of course, there is the famous university, but there is much more to see when you visit Cambridge for a day .

What to do on a Winter Day Trip to Cambridge

Go punting on the Cam . In case you haven’t heard the term “punting” before, it is similar to boating on a gondola but with a pole (called a punt) rather than a stick. While you may think of punting in Cambridge as a summer activity, it is actually offered all year. If you do one of the punting tours , they will provide blankets.
Tour one of the colleges. Some of the most popular are King’s College, St. John’s College, and Trinity College (don’t miss the Wren Library). You could also take a tour of the university led by a graduate like this one .
Visit one of the beautiful churches. The stained glass and ceiling of King’s College Chapel are breathtaking.
Check out one of the interesting museums in Cambridge. The Fitzwilliam is the most popular but there are other smaller museums for archeology, art, and history. All the museums are free to visit.

How to Get from London to Cambridge

To get to Cambridge from London, take the train from either London’s King Cross or Liverpool Street Stations. It takes about an hour to get there. Click here to check pricing and schedules.

If you want a cheaper transportation option, there are National Express buses that leave from the London Victoria Coach Station and take about two hours. Get more information about the buses to Cambridge here.

If you don’t want to venture to Cambridge on your own, there are some guided tours like this one .

Bath is one of the most popular day trips from London. The city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its Roman ruins, the 18th-century architecture, hot springs, and landscape setting.

What to do on a Winter Day Trip to Bath

You can’t say you have visited Bath without going to see the Roman Baths, so start your day trip to Bath there.
Book lovers will also want to visit the Jane Austen Centre to learn more about the author who lived in Bath.
It’s also worth visiting the Bath Abbey which is more like a cathedral. This church dates back to the 11th century, but it’s not in ruins like other English abbeys (i.e. Whitby and Fountains Abbey ).
Take a boat ride in a traditional 1960’s small river cruiser. Get more info here .
Architecture fans should make sure to also see the Royal Crescent which was completed in 1767.
In addition to the historic sites, Bath has a popular Christmas Market, it is one of the best Christmas markets in England . The city is even prettier in the winter with all the Christmas decorations. You can also go ice skating at the rink in Royal Victoria Park .

How to Get from London to Bath

To get to Bath from London, the train from Paddington Station will be your fastest option. It only takes an hour and a half. Click here to check pricing and schedules.

If you are looking for a cheaper way to get to Bath, then there is the National Express bus from Victoria station, but that will take three hours. Get more information about the buses to Bath here .

If you prefer, there are many guided Bath day trip tours. There are several options that include visits to other popular attractions like Stonehenge, Avebury , Windsor Castle, and Lacock:

London: Stonehenge and Bath Full-Day Tour
London: Stonehenge, Bath & West Country Day Trip
Bath, Avebury & Lacock Village Small Group Day Tour from London

Hampton Court was one of Henry VIII’s favorite residences, and it’s definitely worth a visit at any time of the year. It’s the best place to learn more about one of England’s most influential kings.

Be sure to get your tickets to Hampton Court in advance. You can save money by purchasing a family ticket (if appropriate) here .

Hampton Court Palace is also included on the London Pass. Click here for more information on the London Pass .

What to Do on a Winter Day Trip to Hampton Court

Tour the Palace – highlights include the lavish State Rooms, Great Hall, and the Tudor Kitchen.
Visit the Hampton Court gardens, which are open in the winter. If you dress warmly, you can still enjoy the famous hedge-maze which is the oldest surviving one in the world.
During the Christmas season, the Palace has an ice skating rink, Christmas Fayre, and evening carol singing.

How to Get from London to Hampton Court

It’s not far to travel to Hampton Court from London. From London Waterloo station, it’s less than an hour on the train and then a short walk to the palace. Click here to check pricing and schedules .

If you prefer there are private tours to Hampton Court that include transportation and also a visit to Windsor Castle. Click here for more information .

The Harry Potter Studio tour is a must for any serious Potterhead. You get to go behind-the-scenes of the Harry Potter films including visiting the sets for the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s Office, and Diagon Alley.

During the winter season, the Studio is transformed into what is called “ Hogwarts in the Snow .” All the famous movie sets are decorated for the season – fires roar in the fireplaces, the Gryffindor common room is filled with Christmas treats, and the Hogwarts castle model is covered in a blanket of snow.

Like other Harry Potter attractions, the Studio Tour is popular, so it’s best to buy your tickets in advance here . Also, Harry Potter fans should consider doing a Harry Potter walking tour while in London .

What to do on a Harry Potter Studio Winter Day Trip

Climb aboard the original Hogwarts Express, learn about the effects and animatronics, and fly on a broomstick.
Drink some delicious Butterbeer .
Don’t miss the glittering Christmas trees and flaming Christmas puddings in the Great Hall.
Learn how different types of artificial snow, ice, and fires were created and used in the films!

How to Get to the Harry Potter Studios from London

Take the train from London Euston Station 20 minutes to Watford Junction where regular shuttle buses will take you directly to the Studio. Click here to check pricing and schedules.

If don’t want to take the train to Watford, check out these tour option from Kings Cross Station here or from Victoria Station here . Both include a bus to the Harry Potter Studios.

You could also do this tour that combines your visit to the Harry Potter Studios with a visit to Oxford.

Oxford is the city of dreaming spires and is worth visiting all year around. Like Cambridge, Oxford is home to a famous university and world-class museums so there are several options if you want to be inside. However, unlike Cambridge, they do not offer punting in December or January.

Oxford England another fabulous winter day trip from London

What to do on a Winter Day Trip to Oxford

Tour one or more of the colleges. Harry Potter fans will want to visit Christ Church College where a few scenes from the movies were filmed. To learn more about the university’s history, a guided tour like this one is ideal.
The most popular museum in Oxford is the Ashmolean . It’s free to visit and has an interesting mix of everything.
You could also visit the Bodleian libraries (the second largest in the UK).
Stop in at the world-famous The Eagle and The Child a favorite spot for the Inklings, who were an informal group of writers, including C.S. Lewis (the author of the Chronicles of Narnia children’s books), J.R.R. Tolkien (who wrote Lord of the Rings), Charles Williams, and Hugo Dyson.
While Oxford is not considered a top Christmas destination, they do have a small Christmas market or you could probably find some unique gifts at the Covered Market .

How to Get from London to Oxford

To get to Oxford, you can take trains from either London Paddington or Marylebone. It takes around an hour. Check the train schedules and pricing here.

National Express provides 24-hour service to Oxford from London Victoria Station. Check schedules and pricing with National Express here .

There is also a bus service called the Oxford Tube, which runs frequently from Victoria Station and has a few other stops in London. Find more information about the Oxford Tube here .

You can also visit Oxford on a tour from London. There are several options, some of which include other popular attractions nearby as well:

Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds: Day Trip from London

Manchester is one of the biggest cities in the UK. You will find plenty to do on a day trip whether it is winter or summer. It is also a fun place to celebrate the Christmas season, New Year’s Eve, and the Chinese New Year.

What to do on a Winter Day Trip to Manchester

Football (soccer) fans will be in heaven as Manchester is home to two of the most iconic teams in the English Premier League . You can visit the National Football Museum or tour either of the team’s stadiums (book a Manchester City Stadium Tour here or a tour of Old Trafford, Manchester United’s Stadium here ).
If you want to attend one of the football games, you will need to plan ahead as games are always sold out. Don’t attempt to buy tickets from a third-party unless they are licensed. Stubhub could be a good option, since they offer a guarantee, but tickets are not cheap.
If you are interested in art, be sure to visit the Manchester Art Gallery or the Whitworth Art Gallery . Near the Whitworth, you will find the Manchester Museum , which is known for its Egyptian collection. (Those interested in learning more about ancient Egypt should be sure to visit the British Museum in London too.) All these museums offer free entry.
In Manchester, they make a big deal out of Christmas. The season kicks off with a Lights Switch-On event complete with fireworks. The Christmas Markets have more than 300 stalls throughout the city center. They also have a big fireworks display on New Year’s Eve.
Since Manchester has the largest Chinatown in Europe, they also make a big deal out of the Chinese New Year. There is a huge, three-day Chinese New Year festival across much of the city center with food and craft fairs, plenty of noise, and a big dragon parade.

How to Get from London to Manchester

To get to Manchester from London for a day trip you will need to either take a train or fly. The train leaves from London Euston Station and takes a little more than two hours to get to Manchester Piccadilly Station. Check the pricing and schedules here .

You can fly from Heathrow to Manchester airport on British Airways in about an hour but it will be more expensive and also not as environmentally friendly. There are buses from London Victoria which would be your cheapest option but it will take 4 ½ – 6 ½ hours so it is not practical for a day trip.

In my opinion, York is the prettiest city in England and I wouldn’t want to let the cold weather stop you from seeing it. I feel like I have gone back in time walking around some of the streets in York.

What to Do on a Winter Day Trip to York

Spend some of the day inside at the York Minster , the National Railway Museum , the York Castle Museum , the York Dungeon , or the York Chocolate Story . If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, you can probably save money by purchasing the York Pass. Get more info about the York Pass here .
If you plan ahead, you could have afternoon tea at Betty’s .
Don’t miss the Shambles, it’s arguably the prettiest street in England.
If the weather isn’t too bad, do the city wall walk. You can also visit St. Mary’s Abbey which is now in ruins and climb up Clifford’s Tower for some amazing views. Note: Clifford’s Tower is an English Heritage Site. English Heritage members and those with the English Heritage Visitor’s Pass can visit for free.
If you happen to be visiting in December during the St.Nicholas Christmas Market , then plan on spending some time there. When you need a break from shopping, step inside Thor’s Teepee for some warm drinks. York is even prettier during the Christmas season, the city goes all out with the decorations.

How to Get from London to York

To get to York from London, take the East Coast Main Line train from King’s Cross. After about two hours, you will arrive at York Station. Click here to check pricing and schedules.

There are buses from London Victoria to York but they take over five hours, so it’s not practical for a day trip.

Birmingham is often overlooked as a place to visit in England, but during Christmas time it is one of the best places to be. The Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market is the largest Christmas market found outside Germany and Austria.

What to Do on a Winter Day Trip to Birmingham

At the Christmas Market, there is plenty of German food, mulled wine, and Christmas Carols. Don’t miss the singing Christmas moose (known as Chris Moose) who is located in front of the Council House entrance. The Christmas Market opens in early November and runs until December 23rd.
The Birmingham Library is a stunning work of modern architecture. It is worth a visit to see the largest collection of Shakespeare’s works in the UK and also the outdoor garden which has impressive views over the city.
A short walk from the library is the Birmingham Museum . The art gallery has the largest public Pre-Raphaelite collection in the world. There is also a dedicated gallery for the Staffordshire Hoard, the largest find of Anglo-Saxon gold ever.

How to Get to Birmingham from London

The best way to get from London to Birmingham is to take the train. There are frequent trains from London Euston and London Marylebone to Birmingham New Street Station. The journey takes about an hour and a half. Click here to check prices and schedule.

There is also a bus option but it takes around three hours. Not sure that is a good idea if you are only doing a day trip.

Winchester is one of those quintessential picturesque English cities, which seems fitting for a city that was the first capital of England. In addition to the historic sites which can be visited all year, in December the city hosts a popular Christmas Market.

What to Do on a Winter Day Trip to Winchester

A visit to Winchester would not be complete without stopping inside Winchester Cathedral . You can see Jane Austen’s grave and the Winchester Bible, the largest 12th-century English bible. In the crypt, you will find an interesting modern sculpture from Antony Gormley.
It’s also worth visiting the Great Hall , which is the only building remaining of Winchester Castle. You can see the famous Round Table, Gates commemorating the marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and a statue of Queen Victoria.
Visit the Christmas Market in the Cathedral Close. Take a picture by nativity scene in the British Craft Villages. You can also go ice skating.

How to Get From London to Winchester

To get to Winchester, catch the direct train from London Waterloo station. After approximately an hour, you will arrive at Winchester Station. Click here to check pricing and schedules .

You can also take a bus from Victoria Station which will be cheaper than the train but takes an hour and a half. Click here to check pricing and schedules.

Other London Winter Day Trips to Consider

If you don’t mind being outside in the cold in the winter, there are a few other days trips to consider:

Stonehenge needs no introduction, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in England and open year round. During the winter months, Stonehenge is far less crowded. I hesitate to say that it is one of the best winter day trips to London because the attraction is pretty much all outside.

Many people just visit the stone circle but to truly appreciate the site, you need to see at least some of the other Neolithic sites in the area, which requires a bit of walking, which could be uncomfortable depending on the weather. However, on the Winter Solstice , it might be worth visiting because it is free, but keep in mind there will be bigger crowds.

If you are not visiting on the Solstice, you should book your ticket in advance here . If you are an English Heritage or National Trust Member, you can visit Stonehenge for free. For overseas visitors, it is also included in both the English Heritage Visitor’s Pass and the National Trust Touring Pass .

How to Get to Stonehenge from London

Stonehenge is not the easiest place to get to from London on public transportation. If you can, consider driving to Stonehenge since there is so much to see in the area that tours won’t take you.

If you are not driving, then take the train from London Waterloo Station to Salisbury, which will take about an hour and a half. ( Click here to check pricing and schedules ). From the Salisbury Train Station, you will need to catch the Stonehenge Tour bus. The bus to Stonehenge runs hourly during the winter and takes about 40 minutes.

You can buy tickets for the Stonehenge Tour Bus online in advance or on the bus. If you decide to go this route, I recommend that you also buy your Stonehenge admission with your bus ticket. Tickets bought with the bus fare are not subject to the timed entry. That way even if there are train or bus delays you don’t have to worry about missing your time slot. It’s also slightly cheaper than paying for the bus and Stonehenge tickets separately.

For those not comfortable navigating to Stonehenge independently or wanting to save time, there are plenty of tours to Stonehenge to choose from like these:

London: Stonehenge Half-Day Morning or Afternoon Tour
Stonehenge Express Half-Day Tour from London

England may not be known as a beach destination but there are plenty of beautiful beaches not too far from London.

The beaches will be less crowded. The water will be too cold to swim, but in my opinion, it’s too cold to swim even in the summer. Keep in mind, some local businesses (i.e. shops and restaurants) may close for the off-season.

Some beach options that can be easily reached by train from London are:

Brighton – In addition to the beach, be sure to visit the famous pier. To get to Brighton, take the train from London Bridge or London Victoria. It takes about an hour to get to Brighton.

Whitstable – Known for its seafood and its beaches. It takes about 1.5 hours to get to Whitstable. You can catch the train from London St Pancras, Cannon Street, or Victoria Stations

Bournemouth – The beach here is eleven miles long and you will also find shops, gardens, hotels, and restaurants. To get to Bournemouth, take the train from Waterloo. In about two hours you will arrive in Bournemouth.

Eastbourne – A favorite Victorian seaside retreat with a historic pier. To get to Eastbourne, take the train from London Bridge or London Victoria. It takes about an hour and a half to get to Eastbourne.

Camber Sands – Regularly voted as one of the best beaches in England, it’s even been featured in Hollywood films. To get to Camber Sands, take the train from London St Pancras to Rye – it will take about an hour.

If you choose one of these options, be sure to check out my ultimate packing list for the beach for ideas on what to bring along.

Yes. It’s a great way to see more of England, don’t let the weather stop you since you can spend most of the day inside.

As I mentioned there are countless places to visit around London in winter. If a destination did not make my list, it does not mean it’s a bad choice. However, there are a few things you should take into consideration when deciding if you should do the day trip from London in the Winter.

Will the main attractions be open?

Since winter is the low season for tourism in England some attraction do close for the season. For example, the Deep Fan Bay Shelter at the Dover Cliffs closes for the season and Dover Castle is only open on the weekends during the winter. A day trip to Dover in the winter doesn’t make much sense.

How long does it take to get there from London?

Some attractions in England aren’t very easy to get to. When you only have one day you need to make sure the travel time is reasonable. For me, I like to keep it to around two hours or less.

How Much Time Will You Spend Outside?

I know some people like the cold weather, but not me. During the winter, I tend to prefer indoor attractions.

When it is cold it is easy to want to lay low and take it easy. That being said, the winter weather shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying a day trip from London. There are plenty of winter day trip options where you can spend most of your time inside.

England has a lot to offer outside of London, so take advantage of your time here. Winter can be a good time to see top attractions with less crowds. Trust me, a winter day trip from London is worth it.

Which day trip from London would you like to do during the winter?

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the Shard building in london in the winter with text overlay

Make sure to dress according to the weather so that you will be comfortable when you are out.
While crowds will be less than the summer months, there are still some attractions for which you should buy the tickets in advance (i.e. Windsor Castle and Harry Potter Studios)
If you will be traveling by train, be sure to book your train tickets in advance and choose specific train times to get the best price.
If you purchase the London Pass, your admission to Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle are included. Get more information about the London Pass here.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means we will receive a small commission for some purchases made using links in our blog with no additional cost to you. Please be assured we would not promote any product unless we believe that our readers will also benefit. The commission does not influence the editorial content of this site.

Last Updated on May 3, 2023

About the Author

Anisa

Anisa is an experienced international traveler with extra pages in her passport and stamps from 41 different countries across 5 continents (and counting). She was born and raised in Texas. After a 13 year stint in NYC, she moved to England to live with her husband.

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Winter Day Trips From London

Make sure to include Bourton on Water, Burford, Castle Combe, Stanton, and more in your itinerary to witness the Cotswold villages in their winter fairytale charm, especially in December when the Christmas lights are aglow. To stay warm, there are plenty of cozy cafés where you can enjoy tea and lunch. And of course, don’t forget to indulge in some scones with jam and cream!

How to get to the Cotswolds from London?

To reach the Cotswolds from London, having a car makes it much easier as it allows you to hop around the villages. Public transport options are more limited, so having your own transportation offers more flexibility. If you don’t have access to a car, one of the most popular ways to reach the Cotswolds from London is by joining a tour, such as this Full-Day Cotswolds Small-Group Tour . This option includes transportation, and your guide will be well-versed in taking you to the best places to explore in the Cotswolds during the winter season. It’s a convenient and hassle-free way to experience the beauty of the region.

Winter Day Trips From London: Oxford City Centre

How to get to Oxford from London?

To get from London to Oxford, the most efficient and quickest method is by taking a direct train. You can board the train from London Paddington Station to Oxford Station, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour. For ticket purchases, you can visit The Train Line website .

Things To Do in Oxford

Windsor is a conveniently close day trip from London, just a one-hour train ride away. The highlight of Windsor is undoubtedly Windsor Castle, where most of the sightseeing takes place indoors, making it an excellent choice for a winter excursion. While Windsor is a popular destination, it experiences fewer tourists in the winter months compared to the bustling summer season. This means you can enjoy a more serene experience exploring Windsor Castle and strolling through the charming lanes of the town. However, it’s important to note that Windsor Castle can still be quite busy in winter, especially on weekends, so it’s advisable to purchase tickets in advance .

For an iconic experience, take a leisurely 5km walk through the Castle Park from the Castle itself. To navigate Windsor, especially on a chilly and damp day, consider hopping on the hop-on-hop-off bus. This way, you can learn about the city’s history while staying warm inside the bus. If you’re seeking a festive atmosphere, Windsor is a fantastic option for day trips from London in December. The town is adorned with beautiful Christmas trees and twinkling lights, creating a magical ambiance.

How to get to Windsor from London?

To reach Windsor from London, taking the train from London Paddington Station to Windsor and Eton Riverside Station is the most convenient option. This one-hour train ride makes it one of the best day trips from London by train in winter. It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance for the best prices. You can do so on The Train Line website .

Things To Do in Windsor

Winter Day Trips from London: Bath City Centre

How to get to Bath from London?

To embark on a day trip from London to Bath, the most convenient mode of transportation is by train. Catch a train departing from London Paddington Station and arrive at Bath Station in approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. For ticket purchases, you can visit The Train Line website .

Things To Do in Bath

One of the standout attractions in Birmingham during winter is the renowned Birmingham Christmas Market. It holds the distinction of being the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria, known as the Frankfurt Christmas Market Birmingham. This impressive market makes Birmingham a top choice for a winter day trip from London. Given the early start to Christmas festivities in the UK, the market runs from November through December, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a festive experience in both November and December. In addition to the Christmas market, Birmingham offers indoor attractions such as the Birmingham Library, Birmingham Museum, and the expansive shopping center known as The Bull Ring. You can also try to go on a tour through their city centre ! Weather permitting, you can also take a leisurely stroll along the canals in Birmingham.

How to get to Birmingham from London?

Birmingham is easily accessible and ranks among the most convenient day trips from London by train. The most efficient way to embark on this winter day trip from London is by train. Birmingham, located in the heart of the UK, is just a 1 hour and 20-minute journey from London Euston to Birmingham New Street. To secure the best prices, it’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance through The Train Line website .

Things To Do in Birmingham

Winter Day Trips From London: The Shambles in York

How to get to York from London?

The most practical way to reach Northern England from London on a day trip is by train. Thanks to a high-speed train, the journey takes just 1 hour and 50 minutes, making it perfect for a day trip from London in winter. For the best prices, it’s advisable to purchase tickets in advance through The Train Line website .

Things To Do in York

The Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market has earned acclaim as one of the finest Christmas markets in Europe, making it a standout choice for a UK Christmas market experience. Its proximity to London and accessibility by train make it an attractive option for day trips from London, particularly in December. Take to the ice at the Winchester Christmas Market and seek refuge from the cold at The Old Vine Pub and Restaurant, where you can warm up by a cozy fire while enjoying hearty food in the midst of this charming, ancient city. Beyond the festive season, Winchester Cathedral remains a top draw, and the city boasts numerous traditional pubs for a leisurely stroll through its historic streets. Consider joining a walking tour ! Due to Winchester’s southerly location in the UK, visitors are likely to encounter milder weather compared to northern destinations for day trips from London in winter.

How to get to Winchester from London?

The train journey from London to Winchester is just 1 hour, making it the most convenient way to embark on this winter day trip. The route from London Waterloo Station to Winchester Station is the one to take. Tickets can be purchased through The Train Line website .

For a unique day trip from London, consider adding Norwich to your winter itinerary. Norwich offers a range of indoor attractions that provide respite from the cold and rain. It stands out as one of the few cities in the UK with two cathedrals, both of which are worth a visit during your day trip. Additionally, you can embark on an underground tour of Norwich, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the city’s history while staying comfortably indoors.

After exploring Norwich’s historic sites and gaining new insights, make a pitstop at the Adam & Eve Pub to warm up with its comforting food. This establishment has been serving customers since 1249 and is housed in a former monastery.

How to get to Norwich from London?

Another convenient way to embark on this winter day trip from London is by train. In less than 2 hours and at an affordable price, you can travel from London Liverpool Station to Norwich Station by train. Book your train tickets on The Train Line website for the best deals.

Hampton Court Palace

How to get to Hampton Court from London?

Hampton Court has its own train station, and the journey from London Waterloo station to Hampton Court station takes just 30 minutes, as Hampton is situated on the outskirts of London. Book your train tickets through The Train Line website for the best prices.

Harry Potter Studio Tour

How to get to the Harry Potter Studio from London?

You can catch a train from London Euston Station to Watford Junction Station in as little as 20 minutes, making it one of the best day trips from London by train in winter. At Watford Junction train station, clear signs guide you to the bus that will take you to the Studio. Purchase your train tickets here ! Alternatively, if you prefer to go in a group with a guide, you can book a guided tour from Central London that includes transportation .

As winter blankets the capital, these day trips offer a delightful respite, revealing a different side to the UK’s vibrant scenery and cultural offerings. Whether you’re strolling through historic towns, immersing yourself in holiday cheer, or uncovering hidden gems, these adventures promise cherished memories and a welcome break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Embrace the magic of the season with these unforgettable winter day trips from London.

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Best Winter Day Trips from London You Simply HAVE to Take!

By: Author Wandermust Mummy

No matter what time of year you visit London I think a day trip is an essential part of your London itinerary. But what are the best day trips from London in winter to take? In this guide we round up the best Winter day trips from London including the best day trips from London in December to get into the festive spirit to day trips that work even in the snow or in the rain to make sure your trip to London in Winter is a fantastic one.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

If you are looking at doing some London Winter day trips be sure to check out our London Winter Packing List .

Table of Contents

Best Winter Day Trips from London

Harry potter studio tour – one of the best winter day trips from london.

If you are travelling to London with kids then you are bound to have a Harry Potter fan in your group. London is a great place to visit for the Harry Potter fan and top of any fan’s London bucket list is likely doing the Harry Potter studio tour.

If you are doing a day trip from London in Winter – particularly in the period from Late November to early January you will be visiting the studio during the period they call Hogwarts in the Snow. This is meant to be the most magical time of year to visit the Studio as the whole place is transformed into a Winter Wonderland.

From the large model of Hogwarts you see upon entering that is for this limited period covered in snow, to the Great Hall being decorated in the same manner as the Yule Ball from the fourth film in the franchise – The Goblet of Fire, to Christmas trees roaring fireplaces, festive feasts and of course fake snow across the whole of the studio. This is sure to transport you to Harry Potter winter. It truly is one of the best winter day trips from London you can take.

It is always essential to book your studio tour months in advance but Hogwarts in Winter is particularly popular so do be sure to book the tickets in advance.

To find out availability and book your tickets online CLICK HERE!

Windsor in Winter

Windsor Day Trip from London – one of the best winter day trips from london

Whenever we would have guests from out of town when we were living in London and we would ask them what day trip they wanted to do nine times out of ten they would answer Windsor. Windsor is one of the best day trips from London in winter especially. During the summer months Windsor is usually heaving with tourists and there are queues all around the town – especially at the castle – the main draw for tourists visiting the town. However in Winter the crowds have faded away making it easier and more pleasant to visit Windsor in Winter.

As an added bonus if you are visiting the Windsor castle in the run up to Christmas you will find the castle decorated for the season with beautiful Christmas trees. It is a great place to see a traditional British Christmas setting.

How to get to Windsor in Winter:

By Train : You catch the train from either Waterloo or Paddington dependent on where in the city you are staying. Both of these trains are direct which means you don’t have to navigate any changes. Of the two the Paddington train is the quickest but factor in the added time it will take you to get there if you are closer to Waterloo.

By Car: We have once travelled to Windsor by car rather than train and it is doable but if you plan to take the car then you will need to arrive at Windsor very early as there is limited parking near the town centre and this fills up very early. It is easier to get to Windsor by car in Winter as opposed to summer but for most I would still recommend taking the train from London.

From The Airport : If you have a short stopover in Heathrow (enough time to leave the airport) then you could consider visiting Windsor. However be sure to factor in enough time to get through customs, leave the airport, explore, travel back and check in with enough time.

For a full guide on visiting Windsor on a day trip from London click here!

Hampton court Palace – one of the best day trips from London in december

Hampton Court - perfect winter day trips from London - day trips from london in winter

Hampton Court is one of my favourite places in the UK full stop but it is one of the best day trips from London in December due to the wealth of festive activities on offer.

Hampton Court Palace was the favourite palace of Henry VIII having seized the palace from Cardinal Wolsey. It is a great place to learn about the history of the Tudor King. Highlights of a visit to the palace include stepping inside the Tudor kitchens where you can see how feasts on the time we’re prepared. It is extra special at Christmas when these events take on a festive touch.

Next Read : Things to do on a Hampton Court Palace Day Trip

On top of the live Christmas cooking demonstrations the palace also have special events including carolling, Christmas markets and one of the best ice rinks in all of London.

How to get to Hampton Court Palace in Winter :

Getting to Hampton Court Palace from central London is easy and best done by train. There is a direct train from Waterloo Station.

We recommend buying your tickets online in advance to save queuing on arrival!

Kew Gardens –

Although in London this is out at the end of the District Line and really deserves one whole day of your London itinerary to do it probably but for those with limited time you could just spend half a day there or if you are travelling in Winter before Christmas travel for the evening to see the absolutely spectacular Kew Gardens Illuminated.

This special pre Christmas even involves laser projections, light shows singing Holly Buses, Christmas markets and spectacular light displays on the Palm House. This will delight even if you are taking a winter holiday with a baby or are visiting London with a toddler .

Tickets for this event are timed so be sure to book your tickets well in advance to be sure to get your desired time slot.

If you want to visit in the day there is no need to worry that there won’t be much to see in the gardens as no matter what time of year there is something to see in the Gardens. Be warned even in the Winter the Kew Garden palm houses get hot.

For more details on what to do at Kew Gardens check out this post!

Another of the iconic London day trips, Stonehenge seems to be on many people’s UK bucket lists. Visiting Stonehenge in summer can be a bit of a battle, the roads to it have single file traffic and can get easily congested especially when you are battling with summer holiday tourists but in Winter the journey will be much easier and there will be far fewer crowds at this UNESCO World Heritage site itself.

Stonehenge dates back to Neolithic times and to this day it is not full understood why they were built and by whom. Depending on your ticket will depend on how close you can get to the stones but it is possible to get quite close although of course no touching is allowed.

If you are worried about how much there is to do on site, there is also a museum and a reconstructed neolithic village which means you can easily spend a few hours to half a day on site depending on your interests. If you want a full Winter day trip rather than a half day trip from London then there are lots of tours that combine a visit to Stonehenge with nearby attractions or alternatively you could head into the nearby beautiful town of Salisbury.

How to Get to Stonehenge in Winter :

It is possible to reach Stone henge via public transport. You can take a train from Waterloo to Salisbury and from there you transfer to a bus that will take you directly to the site. In my opinion out of all the day trips listed in this guide this is my least favourite to do via public transport. The alternatives are driving or taking an organised excursion.

By car: It is a relatively easy drive from London out to Stonehenge and there is parking nearby.

If you don’t fancy hiring a car to do a day trip then there are plenty of tours from London that just do Stonehenge or that combine Stonehenge with other attractions such as:

Stonehenge Day Tour
Stonehenge and Bath
Stonehenge, Windsor and Bath
Oxford, Windsor and Stonehenge

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle – Best Winter Day Trip from London – day trips from london in december

Another great day trip for castle fans. Leeds castle is often called the Prettiest Castle in the world and take one look at it and it is easy to see why. Again, the castle is brilliant to visit whatever time of year you are travelling to London but the castle really goes to town in the run up to Christmas.

The last time we visited was at Christmas and in each room we entered in the castle had a differently and very ornately decorated Christmas tree. I love that the Christmas celebration here are quite traditional and not the commercialised Christmas you see elsewhere.

For a full review of Leeds Castle at Christmas click here!

How to get to Leeds Castle in Winter:

To get to Leeds Castle from London you take the train from London Victoria Station to Bearsted and then take a private transfer to the castle itself.

Oxford is a great city to visit on a Winter day trip from London and in fact is a place that suits visiting in Winter over summer. Summer is exceptionally crowded in the city and even in the shoulder seasons the town is busy with both tourists and students but the Winter period tends of be more quiet.

Highlights of a an Oxford Winter day from London include:

Visiting the Oxford University Colleges – depending on the day you are visiting will depend on what colleges are open to the public. Our favourites include Christ College, New College and Magdalen College.
Walking around the Oxford University Botanic Gardens – even in Winter these botanic gardens are a treat
Enjoying one of the many many Oxford museums which make this perfect for a rainy day day trip from London.

How to get to Oxford in Winter : You can catch the train from both Paddington and Marylebone stations but check before boarding whether your train goes direct or if you will need to change trains at Reading.

There is also a bus service that does transfers to and from Oxford and for those that wish to visit Oxford via car I would recommend using the very efficient park and ride service.

York Winter Day Trip from London

York in Winter - the perfect Winter day trip from London

My favourite city in the whole of the UK. If you have time in your itinerary then I would recommend visiting York for a weekend but it is totally doable in one day if that is all the time your London itinerary allow s for.

York is a beautiful city in Winter as there are usually great Christmas markets, an ice sculpture festival and even some amazing Christmas illuminations at the York Museum Gardens.

The mix of great indoor activities (such as the National Railway Museum, York Museum and the Castle Museum and of course the stunning York Minster) alongside great outdoor activities means that this day trip is great whatever the weather. Other favourite places to visit in Winter especially if you are visiting York with kids is the York Chocolate Story which tells the story (and gives samples) of York’s history with chocolate and no visit to the city is complete without learning about the city’s Viking history at the Jorvik Viking Centre which kids will adore.

My favourite thing to do in York is to visit the historic shopping street the Shambles. In Summer this street is heaving with tourists but in Winter the street is far quieter and much more enjoyable and is a great place to pick up souvenirs and Christmas gifts.

How to Get to York in Winter: The easiest way to get to York from London whatever time of year you are travelling is via train. The trains to York run regularly from London King’s Cross Station and take around two hours.

Manchester – best day trip from London in December

Manchester is the England’s second city and is a vibrant city full of culture and should definitely be on your UK Bucket List. Winter is out favourite time to visit Manchester as in our opinion it has some of the best Christmas Markets in the whole of the UK (You can read our full Manchester Christmas market review here ).

Manchester is also a great city for those that love both sport and music and no matter what time of year you visit there is sure to be an event on. And if football is your bag then be sure to stop oil the UKs only football museum.

Other great museums in the city include the MOSI (Science Museum), the Manchester Art Gallery and the People’s History Museum.

How to get to Manchester From London:

The easiest way to get to Manchester from London is by train. Trains depart from Euston station every 20 minutes to 30 minutes throughout the day. It will take roughly 2 hours each way. We recommend buying your tickets as early as possible as tickets get more and more expensive the closer you get to the travel date.

Canterbury Day Trip From London

The historic city of Canterbury is a great place to visit in Winter, especially if you want to go inside Canterbuty Cathedral as in December all Christmas preparations are underway and the Cathedral is dressed for Christmas. We loved learning about the history of the cathedral especially learning about the martyrdom of Thomas Beckett. With the size of the cathedral and the tour options it is very easy to spend half a day in the Cathedral itself.

But the city of Canterbury is much more than just the Cathedral though and the streets are filled with great and unique shops and boutiques that make it a great place to go shopping for souvenirs and Christmas gifts.

Have you taken a Winter Day Trip From London? What is your favourite day trip to take from London in Winter? We’d love to hear in the comments?

Best Day Trips From London in Winter / London Winter Day Trips / Winter london day trips / best things to do in london in winter / what to do in london in winter / london at christmas / things to do at christmas in london / things to do in london at christmas / hogwarts in the snow / hogwarts in snow / harry potter london studio / london in snow / london bad weather / best day trips from london with kids / london travel / london winter travel / winter day trips from london

Best Winter Day Trips to Take from London! Best day trips to take from london in winter

11 Fantastic UK Winter Road Trip Itineraries

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Are you dreaming of a UK winter road trip? The moody skies, the snowcapped peaks , the dreamy Christmas markets…if these things are making you itch to hit the open road, then these itineraries will be perfect for you!

Whether you want to see the northern lights, hit up as many Christmas markets as you can, or crave some castles , I’ve got you covered! Here are 11 of the best road trip itineraries for exploring the United Kingdom in the winter!

11 UK winter road trip itineraries

Duncansby Head along the NC500 in Northern Scotland

1. Northern Scotland

Suggested length: 5-6 days Perfect for: northern lights and adventurous travelers

For those who are itching to see the northern lights, you’ll want to head as far north as you can, which means taking a road trip along the NC500 is a perfect choice.

The NC500 is a spectacular route, traversing along the A9 from Inverness and then hugging the coast all the way around the top part of the country. You can visit places like Tain , Ebenezer Place (the world’s shortest street), John O’Groats (the most northern tip of mainland UK), various castles, and breathtaking views around every turn.

If you’re even more adventurous, you could head even further north to the Orkneys or the Shetland Islands and experience an even more remote part of the country.

The best time to see the northern lights is from November to February , so if this is on your bucket list, make sure you plan this trip during these months. While there’s definitely no guarantee they will make an appearance, you’ll have a much better chance the further north you can get.

The Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye are a great place to visit on your UK winter road trip

2. Scotland Highlands

Suggested length: 7+ days Perfect for: breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities

The Scottish Highlands are a perfect UK winter road trip destination in every season. From stunning Glencoe to the otherworldly Isle of Skye , to the depths of Loch Ness and the mountains of the Cairngorms , there’s is so much to do that you’ll never experience it all in one trip.

I have two fantastic itinerary options below for you that include the Scottish Highlands. We did our Scotland trip in November and December and we thought it was the perfect time of year to experience this part of the country.

The Best 7-Day Scotland Road Trip For First-Timers The Ultimate 10-Day Scotland Highlands Road Trip Itinerary

If you are interested in skiing, there are also some great locations in the Highlands. Two options are Glencoe Mountain Resort & Nevis Range .

The Edinburgh Christmas Market is a must-see when visiting the city in the wintertime

3. Scotland Cities & Lowlands

Suggested length: 5+ days Perfect for: Christmas markets and city vibes

If Christmas markets are a big item on your winter wish list, exploring the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow might be a great choice for you.

The cities are only a little over an hour away from each other, making them easy to reach no matter where you want to base yourself. This road trip is best completed in late November through mid-December when the Christmas markets are open.

The Edinburgh Christmas Market is absolutely fantastic, and the city is beyond charming. In fact, Edinburgh is probably my favorite city! You definitely want to spend several days here to get a good feel of the place. Some can’t-miss places include Edinburgh Castle , the Royal Mile , National Museum of Scotland , and Holyrood Park .

You can also head to Glasgow and check out their Christmas market as well. Make some time to visit some other sites as well if you have the time, like Glasgow Cathedral & Necropolis and the Gallery of Modern Art .

If you want to spend some time outside the cities, check out some attractions to the south, such as Melrose Abbey , Tantallon Castle , and Rosslyn Chapel .

You can also do day trips into the Highlands if desired. In this case, I’d recommend booking a tour so you can see as much as possible in one day. Here’s a great option , or you can check out all the choices on Viator .

Stonehenge is a popular tourist attraction in Southcentral England and well worth a stop on a UK winter road trip

4. Southcentral England

Suggested length: 4-5 days Perfect for: history buffs and architecture lovers

England is an amazing place to take a UK winter road trip. There are so many fantastic places to visit that narrowing down the options is difficult! However, if you really enjoy history and architecture, this southcentral England road trip will be a solid choice.

The Winchester Christmas Market is considered one of the best in the entire country, so if you are visiting from late November to mid-December, you should definitely make a stop here! From there you can head to Salisbury Cathedral , a stunning church that has an original copy of the 1215 Magna Carta.

The Cotswolds are also a great place to spend a few days. Explore the charming villages and just slow down and enjoy the small-town life. You can also take a trip to Bath , and if it’s your thing, enjoy a few hours at the Thermae Bath Spa and take the chill away!

For Downton Abbey fans, Highclere Castle is a must. However, there are limited Christmas and wintertime tours and events, so if this is something you really want to do, check into this ahead of time. And you also can’t forget Stonehenge , one of the most famous English attractions of all time.

5. Cornwall, England

Suggested length: 6+ days Perfect for: ocean views and unique attractions

Ah, Cornwall. This part of England is definitely one of my favorites, although it really is hard to choose! I spent about 6 days exploring this region and I would have loved to have had more time!

There is so much to do here so you definitely won’t run out of choices. Explore Tintagel Castle , marvel at St. Nectans Glen , wander around the Bodmin Moor , discover the fantastic Eden Project , gaze in awe at St Michael’s Mount , take a hike around Lizard Point , and take a tour around Minack Theatre . There is definitely a little something for everyone in this part of the country.

A fantastic drive to take to/from this area is the Atlantic Highway , which goes from Cornwall to Devon. It hugs the western coastline of the county and offers spectacular views.

Durdle Door along the Jurassic Coast of England

6. Jurassic Coast, England

Suggested length: 3-4 days Perfect for: ocean views and walks

If you love to take walks with spectacular ocean views and scenery, then the Jurassic Coast is the place for you. This whole area is connected by the South West Coast Path , a 630-mile trail across the coast of England. While you probably won’t have time to do the entire path, there are plenty of great areas to section hike and see some of the highlights.

Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are two such landmarks that are definitely worth the hike. Other popular ones include Butter Rock , Mupe Bay Beach , and Tyneham Cap and Village .

If you want to do more than just hiking, there are lots of choices. Corfe Castle is really neat to see, and the train station reminds me so much of Hogsmeade Station from Harry Potter! If you’ve got a few rainy days, there are a couple of museums in Dorchester that are worth visiting, including The Tutankhamun Exhibition and the Terracotta Warrior Museum .

The Lake District in England is a great place for a UK winter road trip

7. Lake District, England

Suggested length: 3-4 days Perfect for: landscape views and small villages

The Lake District is one of the most beautiful places in England. Whether you’d rather spend your time relaxing in the various towns and eating all the good pub grub, or if hiking and being outside as much as possible is your cup of tea, the Lake District is a great choice.

Make sure you drive around Windermere , England’s largest lake. Experience all the scenery, take a hike or two in the national park, and just enjoy. You should also spend some time exploring the villages and eating all the good food.

8. Central England

Suggested length: 7+ days Perfect for: cities & Christmas markets

You could spend months in just the central part of England and not even scratch the surface, but if you want to see as many Christmas markets as possible and would rather experience city life, then Central England is for you.

If there’s one city you cannot miss, it’s Birmingham for their Frankfurt Christmas Market . It’s the biggest German Christmas market outside Germany or Austria, and if you’re traveling in the winter months, this is a bucket list item for sure. While you’re there, you can also check out Symphony Hall , Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery , and Cadbury World .

From there, some other cities you can consider include Lincoln , Leeds , York , Manchester , and Liverpool . Each city has its own feel and claim to fame. If you make it all the way up to York, take a day trip out to North York Moors National Park . On the way, check out Castle Howard . They put on a tremendous Christmas display for the holidays that is worth seeing if you’re visiting at the right time of year.

Suggested length: 4+ days Perfect for: city lovers

Wait, a road trip in London? OK, so maybe London isn’t the best city to explore by car, especially since the public transportation system will get you everywhere you need to go. But even if you want to do a road trip, a few days in London before or after is still worth it, especially if you are flying in and out of the city.

You can also base yourself in the London area and do day trips from there if you feel the need to get out of the city. Places like Brighton , Oxford , Cambridge , Canterbury , or Dover would all be good options if you’re itching to hit the road.

While you’re in the city, there are so many things to see! Some can’t-miss places include the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey , St. Paul’s Cathedral , Big Ben , and Buckingham Palace . There are also so many museums! Plus if you’re there during Christmastime, the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is supposed to be spectacular!

Northern Ireland is one of the best places for a UK winter road trip. You'll get to see places like Giants Causeway

10. Northern Ireland

Suggested length: 4-5 days Perfect for: photographers and movie buffs

Northern Ireland is a perfect UK winter road trip destination. The Causeway Coastal Route , which is a 120-mile drive from Belfast to Derry, is a prime road trip route. It’s well maintained in the winter months and has so much to see in such a short distance, including some sites featured in popular movies and TV shows.

Start in Belfast , where you can’t miss the Titanic Museum . Other notable attractions include City Hall , St. Anne’s Cathedral , and Belfast Castle .

As you make your way along the coastal route, there are dozens of places you can stop depending on your interests. Some of the highlights are the Giant’s Causeway , the Dark Hedges (made famous from “Game of Thrones”), Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge , Old Bushmills Distillery , and Gobbins Cliff Path .

You can easily drive the entire route in 2 days, but take your time and see as many of the sights as you can. This whole area of Northern Ireland is jaw-dropping, and once you’re here, you’ll have a hard time leaving!

Suggested length: 5+ days Perfect for: hiking and fun driving roads

Wales is a country that often gets overlooked for its bigger siblings, Scotland and England. But Wales has SO much to offer, and even though you’ll only get a taste of it on this 5+ day road trip, it will leave you wanting to come back ASAP!

For outdoor lovers, Snowdonia is a paradise. With so many hiking trails and stunning views of Snowdon practically everywhere you go, you could spend days here and never get bored.

If you’re a driving enthusiast, Black Mountain Road in Brecon Beacons National Park is perfect for you. This road was featured in “Top Gear” and is full of twists, turns, and dips. Its official name is A4069, but how boring is that? Just be extra careful in the winter in case there is snow or ice on the road.

Other places in Wales that are worth visiting include Cardiff , St Davids , Tenby , and Portmeirion .

Why should I take a UK winter road trip?

If you’re wondering why you should even consider taking a road trip in the UK during the cold, rainy winter months, I think there are plenty of reasons! My husband and I have visited the UK during the off-season several times, and every trip has been fantastic and well worth it.

Less traffic and fewer tourists

One of the biggest selling points for me is the fact that there are way fewer tourists around. Oftentimes, I would get an entire attraction to myself, or at least only have a few other people around. You’ll experience a much quieter, authentic experience and have very few people in your photos.

Plus, if you aren’t used to driving on the narrow lanes and on the other side of the car and road, having fewer vehicles on the road will be a lot less stressful too.

Cheaper prices

The off-season also means cheaper prices. If you’re on a tighter budget, your money will go a heck of a lot farther in the winter than in the busy summer months. This includes accommodations, food, ticket prices, and even airfare.

The only exception to this is the holidays – prices over Christmas and New Year can be pretty expensive, so keep that in mind when deciding when you want to visit.

Stunning snow-covered scenery

While snow isn’t always guaranteed, how beautiful does everything look under a coating of white? To me, it makes everything seem just a bit more magical, and if you’re looking for a way to get into the Christmas spirit, what better way than a drive through a magical winter wonderland?

Christmas markets

And of course, who can resist a good Christmas market? These markets usually only run from late November up through Christmas and sometimes into January, but every one is different. So if you plan to visit the UK in the winter but after Christmas, you may miss these events. Do some research before you plan your trip if this is something you really want to experience.

Tyneham Cap along the Jurassic Coast in England

How long should my UK winter road trip be?

The short answer: however long you’d like!

Just like with any road trip, there are a few factors when considering how long your road trip should be . But ultimately, you can do any of these road trips in any time frame you’d like as long as you make a good plan and know how much you can really see in that amount of time.

You could even string several of these road trips together to create your perfect itinerary if you’ve got a longer period of time. I mean, that’s the dream, right?

How do you plan a UK winter road trip?

Planning any road trip takes a bit of time, but here are the basics you’ll need to consider.

Pick an area or the type of road trip you’d like to do. Would you rather spend more time outside, or does seeing the city sights excite you more? Have you been dying to see a particular part of the UK? Check out all the options above to find the road trip that appeals to you.
Figure out your desired length of time. Do you have an entire week at your disposal, or can you only manage 4-5 days? Know exactly how many days you’ll have to explore so you can continue planning.
Determine your budget. You can’t continue planning your road trip if you don’t know how much money you have to spend. This will help you figure out the rest of your plans, like where you can stay and how many attraction tickets you can realistically afford.
Research, research, research! I personally think this is the best part of the trip-planning phase. You get to figure out what you want to see and it will get you really excited to actually experience these places for yourself! This is also where you will find out what places are open at the time of year you are visiting. However, if researching all the things to do is too overwhelming for you, have someone else do it!
Pick your major points of interest. Once you’ve figured out your options, now you can narrow down and determine what your top choices are. You probably can’t fit everything in, so decide what are the top priorities and filter down from there.
Plan your route. Once you know what you want to see, determine the route you’ll take to get to each place. I’m not saying you have to plan everything out to a T, but knowing the approximate route can help you see as much as possible in the time frame you have. This will also help you with the next step in finding places to stay .
Start booking! Accommodations, car rental , flights, you name it – this is the time when you’ll start committing to your plan. Also, see if it’s worth buying certain attraction tickets ahead of time as the prices are sometimes cheaper if you book in advance.
Pack appropriately. Winters in the UK are pretty cold and rainy, so make sure you’ve got everything you need, including warm clothing, lots of layers, rain gear, and waterproof shoes. Here’s a list of everything to consider packing for a road trip!
Have a fantastic trip! Enjoy every minute of it and take lots of photos!

What will the weather be like on my UK winter road trip?

Just like most of the year, winter weather in the UK will be unpredictable. However, you can expect it to be cold, cloudy, and rainy most days. You may experience some snow, with it being more likely in the higher elevations and the further north you go.

Ultimately, plan for everything and you’ll be set!

UK winter road trip tips & tricks

Make sure the vehicle’s tires are in good condition and suitable for winter driving. If you are renting the car, give them a good inspection before leaving.
Make sure the windshield wipers are in good shape.
Have blankets, extra warm clothing, food, and water with you in case you get stuck somewhere. It’s better to be extra prepared than not prepared enough!
Consider upgrading to a 4WD vehicle if your budget allows – if not, make sure you have some experience driving in winter conditions with a 2WD vehicle. The majority of the time, any car should be fine to drive in the winter in the UK, but if you are uncomfortable with winter driving, a 4WD will give you better piece of mind.
Check the weather and be flexible if you need to adjust your plans. Safety should be the #1 priority. Don’t continue your trip if the roads are dangerous.
There will be some attractions and restaurants that are closed this time of year. Make sure you do your research so you aren’t disappointed.
The days will be shorter than you may be used to if you live further south in the hemisphere. You may only get about 7-8 hours of daylight depending on when and where you are visiting ( you can check sunrise and sunset times for your destination here ). Keep this in mind for outdoor activities and make sure you are mindful of when the sun goes down if you plan to be out hiking and exploring.

UK winter road trip car rentals

If you are not local and are coming into the UK from another country, you’ll need to rent a vehicle. I highly recommend using Discovercars.com to book your car rental.

It’s very easy to use and search for what you want, the customer service is fantastic and available 24/7, and you’ll always get free cancellations. Plus, they have the best prices, so you really can’t go wrong.

Conclusion: UK winter road trip itineraries

A UK winter road trip will be a vacation you won’t soon forget. I hope these 11 itinerary options were helpful in helping you decide and plan your next road trip!

Your turn: which of these road trips do you plan on taking next? Let me know in the comments!

Stefanie Henne is an experienced road trip travel blogger who specializes in helping others plan their dream vacation, no matter their budget or time restraints. Go here to read more about Stef's story. If you want to send Stef a message, visit her contact page here.

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Lady’s 7 Best Christmas Day Trips from London

Today I want to share about the best Christmas day trips from London. From cities and towns with famous Christmas markets to medieval castles with Christmas-themed events and activities, there are a lot of great winter day trips from London you can take during the festive season. Whether you love snowy chalets selling handmade gifts or an outdoor winter wonderland, there’s something for you.

Best Christmas Day Trips from London

The best Christmas day trips from London range from urban centers to towns and places in the countryside. Some are home to famous British Christmas markets , while others are known for British Christmas food or festive seasonal events.

Whatever your interests, these winter day trips from London are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Christmas Market in York, one of the best Christmas day trips from London

1. York Christmas Day Trip

York tops my list of the best Christmas day trips from London. This city in the north of England is famous for its markets, of which there are many dotted throughout the center.

I once took a York day trip to discover the top York Christmas markets , and I was impressed by the size and variety of the city’s offerings.

Beyond markets, York’s shops and restaurants are full of Christmas cheer. From decorations on facades to special foods and drinks like mince pies and mulled wine, there’s a lot to get excited about here.

The city is also home to Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland, an annual winter experience featuring the north of England’s largest outdoor ice skating rink, a vintage funfair, a Santa’s Grotto, and an alpine cafe. It’s a great place to get into the Yuletide spirit.

2. Bath Christmas Day Trip

Bath is next on my list of the best Christmas day trips from London. The city is stunning at any time of year, but it really comes alive with markets and magic during the festive season. A Bath day trip is a great way to take it all in.

Bath has a lot of unique events and markets on offer during the season.

There’s an independent Bath artisan market in Queen Square, traditional Christmas celebrations around the Abbey Quarter, and an illumination trail of the city’s iconic heritage buildings.

There are also festive market stalls in Kingston Parade and Abbey Green, a Victorian carousel outside the Roman Baths, and lots of street performances and carol singing. Most years there’s a big Christmas market in the city center, too.

Additionally, many of the best independent shops in Bath go all-out for Christmas. From outdoor lights adorning the streets to twinkling ones inside the stores, the decorations are top-notch.

The seasonal goods on offer in the shops make perfect Christmas gifts for family, friends, colleagues, and other important people in your life, too.

3. Birmingham Christmas Day Trip

Next on my list of the best Christmas day trips from London is Birmingham . One of the best cities in England , this Midlands powerhouse is packed with Christmas markets and other festive fun throughout the Yuletide season.

I once took a day trip to visit the Birmingham Christmas markets and I loved everything from the gift-laden chalets to the sizzling sausages and other seasonal fare on offer.

From the lights on New Street to the carols in Victoria Square, there’s always a lot going on.

For ice skaters, the Ice Skate Birmingham rink in Centenary Square is a great place to glide through the winter air. The views of it from the contemporary Library of Birmingham are great, too.

Snowman and Reindeer at the Birmingham Christmas Markets

4. Canterbury Christmas Day Trip

Canterbury is another of the best Christmas day trips from London. This city in Kent is known for being home to Canterbury Cathedral, which is one of the most important churches in the UK.

It puts on everything from the Cathedral Carol Service to the Christmas Eve Choral Evensong with Carols and the Christmas Day Sung Eucharist with the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Outside the cathedral, a day trip to Canterbury is a great way to take in the the city’s Christmas festivities.

The Canterbury Christmas market in Whitefriars Shopping Centre and St George’s St features festive chalets rife with gifts and seasonal food and drinks. There’s also a Visit Santa experience for children and a Santa Paws experience for dogs.

Add to that live music every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoon during the season, and there’s a lot to love about a Christmas day trip from London to Canterbury.

5. Windsor Castle Christmas Day Trip

Windsor Castle is next on my list of the best Christmas day trips from London. One of the most famous castles near London , it’s not only a great place to get into all things royal, but also a fun place to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit.

That’s because Windsor Castle has beautiful Christmas decorations. From the special exhibitions to the festive garlands and twinkling lights throughout the halls, it’s magnificent to see.

The piece de resistance is the huge Christmas tree in St George’s Hall. It’s decorated with beautiful ornaments and lights.

There are other Christmas trees dotted throughout the State Rooms, including the Semi-State Rooms, which are only open to visitors in the winter.

There are also special events on at Windsor Castle during the Christmas season.

From themed activities around the castle to arts and crafts workshops and festive storytelling in the State Apartments, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on a Christmas day trip to Windsor Castle .

6. Exeter Christmas Day Trip

Exeter is another of the best Christmas day trips from London. Down in Devon, this cathedral city in the UK comes alive with seasonal festivities in the winter.

One of the best is the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market on Cathedral Green. It features a labyrinth of winding lanes lined with chalets packed with handmade gifts, Christmas foods and drinks, and seasonal decorations. There’s live entertainment, too.

Exeter Cathedral itself does a lot as well. It hosts carol services, concerts, events, and tours throughout the run-up to Christmas.

Elsewhere in the city, there are twinkling lights, festive decorations, and Christmas trees in Princesshay and Roman Walk. Shops and restaurants are decked out in seasonal decor, and there are pop-up markets and bars throughout the city center.

7. Hever Castle Christmas Day Trip

Last on my list of the best Christmas day trips from London is Hever Castle . This moated beauty in Kent dives deep into the Christmas spirit each year, offering visitors a range of festive activities to choose from.

Hever Castle has a themed Christmas Trail visitors can follow, a festive fairground with rides, Christmas gifts and food in the shops and restaurants, a Santa’s Grotto, and a magical Christmas Light Trail experience around the gardens and lake.

Inside the castle, there are traditionally decorated rooms, warm log fires, and bright Christmas trees galore. They bring the interiors alive with festive atmosphere and eye-catching surprises.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of Christmas day trips from London and that it’s inspired you to get out and discover some of the best places to visit in the UK in winter . I’m sure they’ll help you get into the seasonal spirit as much as they’ve helped me.

If you want to travel further afield, the Scotland has a lot of great options as well. There are plenty of fun things to do in Edinburgh at Christmas , and cities like Glasgow and Inverness have markets and more. Happy travels!

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10 London in Winter Tips For How To Enjoy It & Prepare For It!

Categories London

Should you visit London in Winter?? Yes! Just because you have heard that Winter in London is wet and cold, firstly it doesn’t mean that it’s like this all through the wintertime in London, and secondly, that isn’t a bad thing and doesn’t have to ruin your trip!

There are lots of things to do in London in winter, lots of things to do when it rains in London , and visiting London in December for Christmas in London is particularly amazing.

In this London blog post, I’m going to go through my top tips for London in Winter after living in London for a few years!

These London in Winter tips will be particularly helpful if you are travelling from overseas to the UK, but also if you live in the UK and are on a winter trip to London!

London in Winter Tips!

If you’re visiting London from elsewhere in the U.K or flying into London. Be sure to check The Train Line to find the best deals on train tickets to London and London’s Airports! I use The Train Line all the time to compare the best times, routes and prices!

1 – Embrace the Things To Do in London in Winter.

First off, the best tip for London is to work out what to do in London in winter.

This will depend on the weather during the London winter months of course because if the weather is nice with chilly but blue skies you can do everything you would do in London any other time of the year like in Autumn and Spring in London but when it’s wet and grey in London in Winter, you’ll want winter activities.

Things to do in London inside

Staying inside and visiting some of London’s museums would be a top recommendation for many when it comes to things to do in London in Winter, but to see more of the city than the inside of the museum I suggest sightseeing inside .

For example, you can take a boat ride along the River Thames and you will be able to see London from the inside of the boat and pop outside if the weather is ok.

You can even make this a whole event by going for Afternoon Tea on the Thames , or you can simply jump on a Hop on Hop Off Boat Tour like this .

London in Winter, boat cruise on river thames

And what about the streets of London? You can see them from a bus too, I went out for Afternoon Tea on a Double Becker Bus in the summer, it started raining despite being August and it made me think how cosy it would be for a Winter activity in London. The food was great and it was an easy way to see the streets of London.

For the best view of London, you need to be inside anyway, so that’s ok if it’s winter. Whether you go on the London Eye , to the top of The Shard , or if you’re on a budget in London, head to the Sky Garden and Tate Modern Museum which offer free viewpoints in London, you will be sure to stay dry and warm whilst appreciating London’s incredible skyline!

London in Winter, Afternoon tea on double decker bus with clouds

If you’re visiting London when it rains, here’s another blog post of mine with things to do when it rains in London which will, in turn, give you even more ideas of winter things to do in London!

London Pass in Winter!

The London Pass offers access into 80+ of the top London attractions . If you plan on going on the London Eye, taking Boat Trips, going into Tower Bridge and St Pauls Cathedral and even plan on going outside of London to Windsor Castle or Hampton Court Palace, it would be cheaper to buy the London Pass so you save money on entrance fee’s and get fast track entry , perfect for if you only have a few days in London!

The London Pass is valid for 2 years once purchased and you can buy a 1, 2, 3, 6 or 10 day pass so you can visit so many of London’s best attractions in the cheapest possible way !

Click here to look into the options and to buy your pass now while you’re thinking about it!

2 – Find Places to Eat & Drink Inside in London.

Another way to enjoy London during wintertime is to make sure you plan your meals and drinks inside!

The seasons in London offer different places to go for a meal and drink, there’s nothing worse than being outside in freezing temperatures trying to eat and drink!

Luckily, London becomes really cosy in Winter.

Winter rooftop bars in London

There are lots of Winter rooftop bars in London like The Trafalgar in St James , Golden Bee in Shoreditch , Pergola in Paddington and FEST in Camden . These London rooftop bars will keep you warm with blankets and outdoor heaters so they are perfect bars in London to visit during the day and in the evening.

Indoor food markets in London

There are also plenty of food markets in London . Some will be London winter markets that are set up purely for winter and Christmas specifically like Covent Garden, Leicester Square and the Southbank Christmas market. Other markets will be open all year round.

Some markets in London are better than others in winter, for example, Camden Food Market is not a good market to go to in winter in London because it’s all outside with limited indoor areas whereas Borough Market, Greenwich Market and cool food markets like Dinerama and are indoor with indoor seating.

These are my 5 favourite street food markets in London !

London in Winter, Greenwich market stalls

3 – Visit London at Christmas.

Visiting London in December is the best month to visit London I think because the whole city lights up and there are so many things to do in London at Christmas!

London Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is the most visited and most popular place to visit in London in December. Winter Wonderland London is full of rides, food stalls, shops and bars.

London in Winter, winter wonderland sunset and wheel in hype park

Christmas Markets in London

London in December also comes alive with more Christmas markets than any other city I think. On top of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, head down to the Southbank for the Southbank Christmas Markets , Leicester Square and Covent Garden Christmas Market.

Here’s my post on how to see the best Christmas lights and Christmas markets in London to help you see them all in one day in London!

Other things to do in London in December include ice-skating in the many rinks that are put up around the city and Christmas shows in the theatre.

London in Winter, Oxford Street Christmas Light

4 – What to Wear in London in Winter.

They say that there is no bad weather, only bad outfits and I agree. It can be hard to plan your London winter outfits because it’s not always really cold, some days during the London winter time the weather can be quite mild.

Clothes for London in Winter

When it comes to what to wear in London winter I’d say that layers are key so you can take them off and put them on. Jeans are the best trousers to wear to keep you warm, I even wear tights under my jeans sometimes in winter, especially in January and February. Boots are needed too whether they are walking boots or Chelsea boots.

Wear a tank top or t-shirt with a jumper, a warm coat on top and a hat and scarf.

If you’re struggling with Winter in London what to wear then know that all the London winter clothes you need can be purchased when you get to London.

I suggest heading to Oxford Street first if you need to go winter clothes shopping in London and go to the high street stores like Primark, H&M, Newlook, Next, Marks and Spencers and Uniqlo.

Another reason layers are best is because it may be cold outside but as soon as you get inside a cafe or restaurant, you’ll quickly warm up due to the central heating, and as soon as you reach the tube platform and get on the London tube, especially if it’s busy, you’ll be sweating in no time!

London in Winter, ellie quinn in woolly hat with street art

5 – Use London’s Public Transport.

On the note of the London tube, use it because it really is the best way to get around London and especially in London Winter weather!

The London underground may seem scary or hard to navigate if it’s your first time in London but it really isn’t. The coloured lines are easy to work out and the platforms and trains provide well-needed warmth from London’s winter weather. In fact, you may even get too hot on the tube even if it’s 0c outside!

Another way to get around London is on the buses, these are regular so you won’t have to wait outside at the bus stops for long and they are a great way to see the city of London as you get from A to B rather than going underground.

I’d suggest downloading the app City Mapper to help you work out which buses and trains to get in London.

Related Post: What to see in London in 2 Days | London Itinerary!

6 – Winter Day Trips from London.

London is great but it’s also a great place to base yourself and see more of England from!

Generally, the further south you go in England, the warmer and drier it is. London is of course already pretty Southern but you can go a little bit further down for chances of slightly better weather.

Winter day trips from London I’d recommend would be to the coast, for example, Brighton or Hastings, or to Kent. Even though they’ll have a sea breeze, they are still nice places to visit in Winter in England.

Other day trips from London in Winter could be the popular places to visit in England like Stonehenge, Oxford, Cambridge and the Cotswolds. Here are some great options with high reviews from Get Your Guide which is a reputable online tour provider in the UK.

Here’s my post on 12 Day Trips From London in Winter To Explore And Get Cosy in!

London in Winter, margate beach with grey sky

7 – Be Prepared for all Weather.

I’ve mentioned this briefly already but I’ll say it again because this is an important London travel tip! If you’re wondering ‘what is the weather like in London in winter?’, there is no definite answer because the weather in London changes a lot !

London Winter Months

We have had extremely mild December’s in the last few years whilst March, which is technically Spring in London, has been freezing!

On your London packing list, I would add a small packable travel umbrella in case it rains, but if it doesn’t you can carry it lightly and easily. A packable rain jacket so you can keep exploring London when it rains. And layers like vest tops, t-shirts, jumpers, a coat, hat and scarf, so you can take them off and add them on when needed!

These are 20 items I always pack in my case and will help you on your London trip too!

London in Winter, three people in London wearing winter outfits

8 – Stay in a Central London Location.

London is a big city and although the tube and buses make getting around London easy, the average journey time is about 40 minutes. There is an abundance of accommodation in London including hotels, hostels and Airbnb properties!

If it’s cold and wet when you visit London, you don’t want to have to deal with an hour journey just to get back to your accommodation. Therefore I recommend the best area of London to stay in as being in Zone 1 or 2, which still gives you plenty of flexibility.

HOTELS AND HOSTELS IN LONDON

If you want a hostel in London , the YHA Hostels are good, so is Clink78 Hostel and Wombat’s London Hostel .

For cool hotels in London in a good location, have a look CitizenM in Tower Bridge, CitizenM in Shoreditch , Ace Hotel London and The Hoxton Shoreditch .

AIRBNB IN LONDON

London has some great Airbnb options like this which will make you feel like a local! To get £25.00 / $30.00 off your Airbnb stay (which is a good saving in London!), open a new account using this promo code and search for your London Airbnb below now as the good ones book out quickly!

London in Winter, V&A museum building in central London

9 – Be Flexible with When you Visit.

If you’re flexible with when you can visit London and you’re looking for the best month to visit London in winter, I would suggest December as the best time to visit London because of the buzz of Christmas and all of the Winter activities London.

Best time to visit London

I’d also recommend October and November to catch the end of Autumn in London, these months are when the weather is getting colder, the nights are getting darker but it’s not getting too cold and grey and instead, London is a beautiful golden colour.

March and late February are also great months to visit London as winter is slowly coming to a close, although it can still snow in March and has done in the last few years, but, slowly nature is coming back alive too which makes London very pretty.

London in January

January in London can be pretty bleak to be honest, so if you are flexible this is the one month I would probably recommend not visiting London because Londoners are getting over Christmas and New Year, saving money by not going out and staying in on the coldest and darkest evenings and this will affect your trip to London as a visitor I think!

view of london skyline from hampstead heath park | things to do in london in winter

10 – Note how Dark it will be!

Talking of dark nights you may be surprised by how early it gets dark in the UK during winter and what time the sunrises in London in winter!

In January, the sunrises in London at about 8:00 am and the sunsets at about 16:00 pm which doesn’t give you that many hours of daylight for sightseeing.

This isn’t a major problem as there are many winter activities in London that you can do in the dark and London is an amazing city in the dark.

Walking along the Thames is one of the best things to do in London at night. London is also very safe in the dark, but if you want to visit the best parks in London in winter, go on a London winter run, see some of London’s viewpoints, make sure you do this whilst it’s still light!

Also, we get some amazing winter sunsets in London !

Now you will be all set to visit London in Winter with these Winter in London Tips!

For more of my London posts and guides see:
2 Day London Itinerary!
3 Day London Itinerary!
Your Complete Guide To Camden Town in London!
Best Places To Visit in Shoreditch!
10 Things To Do in London When it Rains!

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The 21 Best Day Trips From London

By Condé Nast Traveller and Anna Prendergast

London ’s hustle and bustle can become overwhelming, even for the most dedicated locals—but its handy location means that day trips from London are easy for anyone who needs a quick escape, whether it be for a country walk, a seaside jaunt, or a cultural getaway. Most of our selection of the best day trips from London can be reached by train , within less than two hours—and many couldn’t be further from the busy streets and crammed schedules of the capital. Whether you’re looking for fresh air, delicious eateries or a new selection of shops, these easy-to-plan day trips should slot nicely into your schedule.

Below are 21 of our favorite day trips from London, in no particular order.

Read our complete London travel guide here .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

Canterbury, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a colorful, food-fuelled history lesson in the garden of England How to get there from London: The direct train from London St Pancras to Canterbury West can take as little as 53 minutes

Prehistoric settlements have been uncovered in this corner of Kent, and it was a popular haunt of the Romans, who surrounded the early city by constructing an earth bank and fortified walls around 130 acres of land. The story of Canterbury that schoolchildren learn, however, comes from the medieval period, courtesy of Chaucer.

The city is home to one of the UK’s most spectacular cathedrals. Pilgrims have navigated the route to this ethereal site for many centuries, and it’s here that Thomas Becket was infamously slaughtered at the order of Henry II–although this series of events has been contested by countless historians. From the cathedral, scan the selection of novels through the crooked door of the Catching Lives Charity Bookshop, before soaking up the sun in one of the city’s hidden pub gardens–The Dolphin and The Parrot are some of our favorites.

Stroll along the remnant of the ancient wall that is still accessible, or settle in for a lazy afternoon on the colorful banks of the River Stour after collecting treats from The Goods Shed. Historic river tours of the river are touristy but not overly expensive, so well worth booking ahead of a visit to uncover the secrets of these romantic, cobblestone streets.– Connor Sturges

If you decide to stay over: Parts of The Falstaff Hotel date to the 13th century, and original features such as fireplaces and oak beams are a nod to the city’s medieval history. The city’s main attractions are within walking distance, and comfortable beds, craft cocktails, and a signature afternoon tea await once you are back in the cosy setting.

Elmley Nature Reserve

The best day trip from London for: getting fully immersed in nature How to get there from London: The train from London St Pancras International to Swale takes 1 hour 50 minutes and then it’s a short taxi ride to Elmley Nature Reserve

Think of day trips to Kent and you’ll probably skip straight over the Isle of Sheppey. Just off the northern coast of Kent next to the Thames Estuary, Sheppey is an unglamorous largely industrial island that initially lacks the tourist appeal of some of its Kentish neighbours. But there’s a secret gem here right off the mainland–the bucolic Elmley Nature Reserve, 3,300 acres of wetlands and wilderness. This family-run estate is a true wildlife conservation haven and is the perfect trip for birdwatchers and nature lovers. With over forty varieties of birds raising their young at Elmley each year, there are some beautiful walking trails to spot them all, plus the other resident hares, frogs, dragonflies, cows, voles, bees and more. As soon as your taxi turns onto the long entry drive, it’s easy to see elegant birds such as egrets, lapwings and redshank happily frolicking on the flat marshlands and that’s before you’ve even started exploring. Open Wednesday to Sunday, the entry fee is £6 and that gets you access to the beautiful open landscape for a self-guided wander (although you have to stay on the paths!); they also arrange organised tours at dusk and dawn for £29.50 if you want an expert to help you spot marsh harriers, long-eared owls, sparrowhawk and peregrine falcons. It might be only 40 miles from London but it feels like another world. As well as an incredible place for a day out in nature, there’s also a lovely barn restaurant to get cosy in for toasties at lunch and more hearty evening meals, plus an impressive range of smart places to stay dotted across the reserve if you want to extend your visit.– Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over: From decked-out shepherd’s huts with outside baths to four poster beds in the grand 18th-century main house, there’s a wide range of places to stay – all with stunning views over the nature reserve.

Great Garden Escape, The Newt in Somerset

The best day trip from London for: a VIP experience How to get there: The train from London Paddington takes about 1 hour 25 minutes

If you’re not the planning type, The Newt in Somerset’s Great Garden Escape is a fun-filled organized day trip that shows off the best of the British countryside and its charming traditions. With a jam-packed schedule starting at Paddington station, day trippers travel First Class with breakfast served on-board. On arrival, they’ll be given a tour of the gardens at The Newt, which have been landscaped over hundreds of years and are now home to wildlife including deer and newts–of course. There's even an opportunity to explore the grounds with experts, along with a dive into the history and traditions of Somerset. Plus, a stopover at the incredible Roman Villa Experience.

Lunch leads into a cider tasting, made on-site using apples grown in local orchards, where you’ll undoubtedly be swayed into picking up a bottle or two to take home. When you’ve breathed in just enough country air, the train journey home serves up afternoon tea, depositing you back in the city just in time for sundowners. The whirlwind tour is the ideal tonic for shaking off burnout and reminding yourself of the beauty on your doorstep.– Abigail Malbon

If you decide to stay over : Should you choose to forego the train ride home in favor of waking up somewhere new, The Newt is a Jane Austen dream, whether you choose a room in the Georgian house or the converted outbuildings, barns and stables. Bedrooms are simple and beautiful, with a focus on relaxation, but those with a view are truly exceptional. In the morning, wake up early and treat yourself to a swim in the spa pool as the sun comes up – you’ll return to London feeling like a new person.

Clifton, Bristol

The best day trip from London for : packing a lot in How to get there from London: The train from London Paddington takes about 1 hour 35 minutes.

After hopping off the train at Bristol Temple Meads, take a stroll to Clifton–the city’s most beautiful leafy suburb. Quiet residential streets are lined with pretty Georgian townhouses, spots of greenery to wander through off the cobbled streets and an eclectic mix of independent cafés, restaurants and shops.

Start with a gander around Clifton Arcade in the heart of Clifton Village, where the 17 boutiques are filled with knick-knacks and intriguing antiques. It’s not a true shopping experience without a pit stop for coffee and cake – try one of Bristol’s top coffee spots, Spicer + Cole, or–for a 100-per-cent plant-based menu–refuel with a slice of rose and vanilla loaf and a superfood latte at East Village Café.

Pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables from the local greengrocers and head to Clifton bridge for fabulous views across the River Avon. It's one of the oldest surviving iron suspension bridges in the world. Learn about its history at the Visitor Centre, stopping off for a pint of traditional Somerset cider at the White Lion by its side. Continue the historical tour by walking up to Clifton Observatory, which has a museum featuring a Victorian-era Camera Obscura and a mythical Giant’s Cave, alongside its own rooftop café serving up breathtaking views. And don’t miss out on a walk down Royal York Crescent–one of the most expensive streets in Bristol, which was also once reputed to be the longest terrace in Europe.

Next, spend time at Bristol Lido, a restored Victorian swimming bath from the 1800s surrounded by a spa and poolside bar for the ultimate in pampering. Round off the day with a cozy pub meal at The Albion, an Indian fine-dining experience at Nutmeg or a hearty pizza at Bosco around the corner on Whiteladies Road.– Cordelia Aspinall

If you decide to stay over: Book a room at the recently refurbished Number 38 boutique hotel for a peaceful stay overlooking the Clifton Downs, perfect for your morning stroll.

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Bath, Somerset

The best day trip from London for: soaking up history How to get there from London: The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 20 minutes.

Bath is known for its history, but among the buttery-hued Georgian architecture and ancient thermal springs there’s a fresh independent spirit. When the weather is good, there are a couple of brilliant walking routes to try: the six-mile Bath Skyline, for example, is a short stroll from the city centre and tramps through woodland, meadows and orchards with views of the buildings below.

The Somerset city’s literary heritage is well documented–Jane Austen is probably the most famous one-time resident–and there’s still a thriving network of bookshops and literature festivals here, including at bookworm magnet Topping and Company, which stocks more than 55,000 titles. Restaurants are driven by excellent local produce and seasonal ingredients. Grab a traditional lunch at The Circus (we recommend the Wiltshire lamb two ways) or order bun cha at Vietnamese spot Noya’s Kitchen. After a bite, shop at clever concept stores such as Nām, which sells antique furniture and homeware curated by owner Sharan Kaur, and Found, where you can buy clothes from niche global brands, or spend an afternoon at wine bar Corkage, where about 70 bottles are available to sample by the glass.– Sarah James

If you decide to stay over: Small hotel Eight lives up to its name; there are just eight rooms, and the ground-floor restaurant always has eight dishes on the menu.

Read more about the best things to do in Bath, Somerset

The New Forest, Hampshire

The best day trip from London for : woodland walks and long pub lunches How to get there from London: The train from London Waterloo usually takes about 1 hour 45 minutes

With its purple carpets of heather, ancient woodland and England-of-yore villages, the New Forest has long been a release valve for Londoners eager to clear the cobwebs and the cortisol. The apex of its beauty has to be autumn, when its rich hues cut through morning mists and dazzle in the afternoon sun. It's best enjoyed during a long ramble, where you’re likely to meet free-roaming New Forest ponies, cattle and even pigs, followed by a hearty pub lunch with local ale and a warming log fire.

Take the train from Waterloo to Beaulieu Road station and fuel your hike with a pint of real ale at the Drift Inn. If independent shops, cafés and beaches are on the agenda, it’s best to head to Lymington instead, as this one-and-a-half-hour loop around the pub on the edge of the New Forest is blissfully rugged and remote. Having traipsed through a mixed mosaic of woodland and absorbed the silence and sweeping views across the heathland, hunker down at the Drift Inn for a Hampshire beef burger, ale-battered haddock or the pie of the day (invariably something along the lines of mud pie with mash and gravy).– Rosalyn Wikeley

If you decide to stay over : Those seeking the quintessential heather-and-wild-ponies New Forest should bed down at The Pig hotel in Brockenhurst or Limewood near Lyndhurst (about five minutes from the Drift Inn). However, the trusted favorite among New Forest devotees, Chewton Glen continues to lure weary urbanites with its coveted position – wedged between woodland and the coast – and commitment to the good, old-fashioned service and comforts of a country club. You’ll find few zeitgeisty design details or next-gen touches here. Instead, antiques, thick carpets and mahogany furniture keep this 18th-century manor house sure of its identity – save a few fun treehouse bedrooms, should privacy or the 21st century fall into your criteria. Don’t miss the fresh salads and fish lunches once you’ve been pummeled in the spa or worked up an appetite in the Grecian-style pool. The gardens are also glorious for afternoon tea after visiting Highcliffe beach.

Hertford, Hertfordshire

The best day trip from London for : pub-crawling and country walks How to get there from London: The train from Finsbury Park takes 35 minutes

With its higgledy-piggledy, pastel-colored buildings and cobbled streets, this county town serves up a slice of English antiquity that’s postcard-pretty enough to satisfy both shiny-eyed visitors from further afield and weary Londoners searching for fresher air, shorter queues and somewhere different to look at for the day. With trains running every half hour, it’s possible to find yourself marching around its 15th-century castle grounds (check ahead for cinema screenings, talks and events), net fishing from a sandy cove in Hartham Common or wandering about its dinky museum within the hour. Alternatively, if you’re feeling ambitious, you can cycle from London along the River Lea towpath.

On arrival, dip into its handful of local shops – The Women's Society Boutique has an imposing exterior but is a real treasure trove–before stopping at one of the many independent cafés and restaurants. Popular deli-bar Giambrone’s serves authentic Italian plates, while Hertford Coffee Lab makes for a cool pit-stop, and Georgian townhouse and B&B Number One Port Hill hosts occasional pop-up suppers. Plus, the artsy Dog and Whistle, once a pop-up café, has blossomed into a hipster foodie pub and music venue with rooms. Indeed, Hertford – quiet market town by day and more bustling nightspot come evening – specializes in pubs, particularly old-world ones. There's The Salisbury Arms Hotel, said to have been the place where Oliver Cromwell stayed during the Civil War and home to a number of ghosts; the 16th-century White Horse; the 17th-century Blackbirds; and the riverside Old Barge (exact age unknown, but 'old' is part of the name…). If you have time, go on the three-mile walk to Ware alongside the River Lea towpath–the neighboring town also has a plethora of pubs – and catch the train back to London from there.– Becky Lucas

If you decide to stay over: Hertford House Hotel took over the former local newspaper’s offices in pretty Parliament Square in 2006 and hasn’t stopped evolving since, with its latest restaurant and bar renovation completed in autumn 2020. Don’t miss out on brunch in the secret garden, a locally sourced roast in the restaurant and a pint in smart sister pub The Quiet Man.

The best day trip from London for: an under-the-radar getaway How to get there from London: The fast train from St Pancras International takes 1 hour 22 minutes

This hillside scribble of Georgian streets tucked behind the Kent coast really hit our radar in 2018. Nicknamed ‘Margate’s little sister’, it’s a much cosier, countryside version of its arty neighbour. And that’s exactly its appeal. Deal is less shouty than Margate, but there’s still an exciting slew of shops, cafés and galleries that have arrived over the past few years. The Saturday Market stalls are worth a rummage, but it’s the food that brings the locals back each weekend. For more of a sit-down lunch we love Frog and Scot where the chef, previously of The Sportsman in Seasalter, cooks up a daily changing menu based on hyper-local produce. Founder of Smugglers Records Will Greenham (ex singer and guitarist of the band Cocos Lovers, who’ve supported Mumford & Sons on tour) is at the heart of the town’s music scene, and in terms of art, Linden Hall Studio is a contemporary gallery in a converted chapel that wouldn’t look out of place in Mayfair.– Tabitha Joyce

If you decide to stay over: The Rose was revamped in 2018 and now there are eight cute bedrooms splashed in bold colors and filled with vintage finds. The restaurant is looked after by Rachel O’Sullivan (previously of East London’s Towpath Café) who dishes up Scandi-inspired breakfast plates of smoked salmon, avocado, soft-boiled egg, dill and whipped cream cheese.

Whitstable, Kent

The best day trip from London for: oysters on the beach How to get there from London : The train from from St Pancras takes 1hr 13 minutes

This little town on the north Kent coast isn’t quite the sort-of-secret it was back in the 1990s, when DFLs (local jargon for Londoners) rediscovered it, arriving at weekends for seafood at Wheelers on the high street and pints of Kentish ale at the beach-side Old Neptune pub. But it’s still an atmospheric place to head for a hit of vitamin B12 – via a dozen or so oysters – then a scrunch along the shingle shore, spotting Second World War sea forts across the waves and seals in the harbour. There are plenty of places to eat: avoid the overpriced Royal Native Oyster Stores and head instead to JoJo’s, just down the road in Tankerton, for mackerel fillets and Med-inspired small plates. Or Samphire, a Whitstable bistro with cuttlefish risotto and Romney Marsh lamb on the menu. There’s also a thriving micropub scene here, with The Handsome Sam, The Black Dog, and the larger Twelve Taps for hoppy experimentation. But our favorite pastime is picking up a pot of cockles and whelks from the quayside, or fish and chips and oysters from The Forge shack, and devouring them in the shade of a wooden groyne on the beach, preferably with a bottle of English fizz to hand.– Rick Jordan

If you decide to stay over: The Victorian fisherman’s huts on the beach are the best place in which to hole up, the sound of waves and boat masts jangling in the wind outside, and can be booked via Hotel Continental. Along the coast in Seasalter is the Driftwood Beach House B&B .

Rye, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : a bracingly fresh seaside getaway How to get there from London: The train from St Pancras International takes about 1 hour 10 minutes with a change at Ashford International.

Rye is home to what might just be Britain’s prettiest (and most prettily named) street, and a wave of newcomers have moved in alongside the quaint old-timers in Mermaid Street and beyond, opening smart interiors stores and artisan bakeries next to unironically vintage tea rooms and souvenir shops. After breakfast at Whitehouse Rye–order the halloumi hash–pick up a new read at The Tiny Book Store (the clue’s in the name) and window shop for that fantasy mansion at striking antiques shop Strand House Interiors. The blustery dunes and invigorating waters of Camber Sands, one of the best beach near London , are a 15 minute ride away on the local bus, but head back in time for a rustic supper at Tuscan Rye, where fresh pasta (ricotta ravioli with brown-butter sauce, potato and thyme tortellini in a rich ragu) draws loyal locals.– Sarah James

If you decide to stay over: Book a room at the lively George in Rye , which welcomes A-list guests (George Clooney and Helena Bonham Carter have both checked in for sleepovers) and smart locals in the same breath.

These are our favourite things to do in Rye

Margate, Kent

The best day trip from London for : a cultural day out How to get there from London: the fast train from London St Pancras takes 1 hour 25 minutes.

It’s no secret that this Victorian seaside town has had quite the hipster renaissance in recent years, sparked mostly by the arrival of the Turner Contemporary gallery in 2011 and spurred on by a slew of new openings and a wave of Londoners upping sticks and moving down to the Kent coast. For a cultural outing, the waterside Turner Contemporary is still a must. Entry is free so it’s worth popping in even if you’ve never heard of the artists on show, and the shop has some nice local products. For more contemporary art head to Crate, an artist-led project space in an old printworks. If you’d prefer something older–much older–wander over to the most ancient building in town, the Tudor House, a Grade II-listed 16th-century timber-framed house on King Street. It’s on your route from the seafront to the mysterious Shell Grotto, a spooky set of underground tunnels covered in more than four million shells.

A trip to Margate isn’t complete without a few hours in Dreamland, whether it’s for some spins on the rides or to see one of the amusement park’s impressive line-up of gigs in the evenings. Do take a stroll around town to hit up the vintage shops selling retro clothes, furniture and homewares, where you can still find some decent bargains. And don’t forget to head over to Cliff Terrace to visit the flagship store of cult natural skincare brand Haeckels, which makes divine-smelling beauty products using seaweed gathered on the beach nearby. Speaking of the beach, if you want to go swimming walk along the coast to Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, a man-made sea lagoon where you can find calm waters and steps for easier access. If you arrive early (or stay the night), tuck into cracking breakfast at Storeroom coffee shop or at Cliffs, where there’s also a record shop, a hair salon and a yoga studio. In fact, the whole up-and-coming area of Cliftonville is worth exploring. After all that roaming, great seafood can be found for dinner at either Angela’s or Hantverk & Found–reserve a table in advance though, as both get booked up. – Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over: The best beds in town are at The Reading Rooms , a boutique b&b in a restored Georgian townhouse a few minutes’ walk from the seafront. Be sure you don’t have to rush off in the morning as they’ll bring breakfast to your room so you can eat it overlooking the leafy square.

Read more about Margate's best things to do

Eastbourne, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : fair-weather walkers How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 30 minutes.

Eastbourne is an old-timey British seaside town with a Victorian pier, a pebble beach, and a much-loved bandstand where tribute acts reign: ‘Queen’, ‘ABBA’, ‘Frank Sinatra’ and ‘Lady Gaga’ have all played. You could spend the day taking in the town’s thriving art galleries, with plenty of opportunities for refueling stops along the way (our favorite is the stripped-back-trendy Nelson Coffee Co opposite the station) but the real draw here is enjoying the great outdoors at Beachy Head, where you’ll find the famous Seven Sisters chalk cliffs. A hike with seriously impressive views out to sea runs across the top. Wander all the way along to neighboring Seaford or make one of the secret beaches tucked away at the foot of the cliffs your way point. It’s a steep climb down, but Falling Sands Beach is quiet and sandy and well worth the adventure. Eastbourne often makes the list of the sunniest places in the UK, so don’t forget your sunglasses.– Olivia Holborow

If you decide to stay over: Book into the Beachy Head holiday cottages –there’s a choice of 8, all set around a rambling walled garden with fruit and vegetables you can help yourself to.

An insider guide to the South Downs

Brighton, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : blasting the cobwebs away by the sea How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 34 minutes.

Brighton is a brilliant mish-mash of retro, seaside fun and progressive culture. Book in advance and you can get return tickets from London for as little as £10. A maze of bunting-lined streets, The Lanes bursts at the seams with vintage shops–don’t miss Beyond Retro and Dirty Harry, and our two favorite independent boutiques, Our Daily Edit and Peggs & Son, as well as retro memorabilia (navigate the turnstile at Snoopers Paradise for collectors’ items, vinyl, and furniture). Time your day trip to include breakfast at Kensingtons – grab a table on the balcony for giant plates piled high with eggs, toast and beans. It’s not the easiest spot to find, so look out for a shop called Artemis on Kensington Gardens, which overflows with sheepskin rugs and pelts – the café is on the left; follow the smell of bacon up the stairs. Later, reserve a table at Food for Friends, a superb veggie restaurant with award-winning flavours and presentation. A short walk away is the huge 8km pebbly beach–the section near the Palace Pier is dotted with stripy deckchairs and usually buzzing from spring to autumn (and often absolutely crammed in summer). There’s something terribly British about layering up and enjoying a windswept walk in the winter months, too. Reward yourself with a bag of hot, sugary donuts from the pier.

If you decide to stay over : Walk along the seafront to The Ginger Pig, a restaurant-with-rooms with pre-mixed cocktails in the minibars and Cowshed bottles by the standalone bathtubs.

The best restaurants in Brighton

Lewes, Sussex

The best day trip from London for : history buffs and vintage hunters How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes just over 1 hour.

Lewes: the market town in the South Downs that sits against a backdrop of chalk hills and green peaks. Cobblestoned 'twittens' (narrow streets), hand-painted shop signs and crumbling tiles from the 1960s make it feel like a town time forgot, and its slower rhythm makes for a reinvigorating gear-change. The Needlemakers on West Street is home to a range of small, independent shops that sell local craftsmanship, from jewelry to books–Alexis Dove is a favorite for delicate silverware and Susie Petrou has an eye for vintage blouses and Romanian embroidery. There’s an incongruous well at the bottom by the vintage shops – throw in a penny for good luck before you start hunting through piles of clothes and bags. Lewes Flea Market is an alluring source for antique furniture and quirky homeware, and is open daily (not to be confused with the outdoor Sunday market, which is also worth a visit). At the other end of town, at the bottom of Cliffe High Street, you can find Bill Collison’s very first Bill’s restaurant, a European deli-turned-eatery, where you can get hearty dishes such as pumpkin, fig and chestnut roast, or a beef, bacon and camembert burger. After lunch, ponder the paperbacks at the Fifteenth Century Bookshop, which has been carefully restored in recent years but remains as much of a landmark as Lewes Castle. Finish the day with a pint; Harvey’s Brewery is the only independent brewery in Sussex and provides the John Harvey Tavern over the road with local cask ales (download the self-titled app to find out where you can get it in London).

If you decide to stay over : Head to Firle for a night at The Ram Inn , and enjoy crisp linen and generous breakfasts served by an open fire.

Folkestone, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a coastal up-and-comer How to get there from London : The fast train from London St Pancras to Ashford takes 40 minutes, where you can change for Folkestone Central.

The seaside town of Folkestone is mid-makeover, which is the ideal time to visit – before everything gets priced up and the place’s quirks glossed over. The appeal of Sunny Sands beach is self-explanatory – this tiny, windswept slip of sand is one of the best beaches in Kent and the ideal spot to kick off your day (unsurprisingly, it fills up with families wielding buckets and spades, sticky with sunscreen, too). A trio of swashbuckling pubs and restaurants–The Ship Inn, The Mariner, and The Captain’s Table–lines the seafront, but the real treasure can be found in the Creative Quarter. At the bottom of The Old High Street is Bounce Vintage, an open space with rails full of retro sportswear, French chore jackets and Aloha shirts. If you exchange smiles and pleasantries with the rosy-cheeked owners, they might just offer you an espresso on the house. Failing that, further up the road, Steep Street sells specialty coffee, homemade cake and books . Floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall shelves of hardbacks tower over fat leather armchairs and blackboard tables that you can doodle on in chalk. There are endless places to eat and drink around town: Rocksalt for a smart menu and sea views; Papas for old-fashioned fish’n’chips ; Beano’s for veggies; La Casa Del Bello Gelato for ice cream Follies for pizza and The Pullman for pints. The Harbour Arm, though, is where Folkestone’s own folk go – the Champagne bar hidden in the lighthouse at the end is rustic, romantic, and completely charming.

If you decide to stay over : Book a room at the Linen Shed , a dove-grey, weatherboarded house on the old Roman road to Canterbury.

The best restaurants in Kent

Oxford, Oxfordshire

The best day trip from London for : a traditional slice of British culture How to get there from London : The Oxford Tube coach service takes 1 hour 30 minutes and runs until 3am; trains also run from Paddington and Marylebone stations and take 1 hour.

In one of the most quintessentially English cities in the UK (and the most expensive to live in outside London), cream tea is not just a rite of passage – it’s a requirement. And there’s only one place to take it – The Vaults & Garden Café, signposted by the presence of an antique bicycle with a flowerbed in its basket, is a gorgeous 14th-century building surrounded by colleges (Oriel, Brasenose, Murton, All Souls), where scones come loaded with clotted cream and seasonal homemade jam (the café has serious sustainability credentials, too). Architecture is a major draw in Oxford ; the libraries, bridges and even cinemas feature Palladian domes, Norman design, ziggurat influences and listed buildings which make this a city to see on foot (Radcliffe Square is a must, and it’s worth paying £4 to climb the tower at the Church of St Mary The Virgin for the best view of Oxford). If you’re taking kids, the Pitt Rivers Museum is packed with bizarre artefacts and stories they’ll tell their friends about, and The Story Museum welcomes you through a wardrobe into Narnia and other fictional worlds of wonder. If you booked a babysitter, however, grab a drink at the brilliant Freud bar in Jericho–a stained-glass church-turned-cool-cocktail-bar that is grown-up enough to feel sophisticated but student-y enough to have plenty of atmosphere and frivolity in the air (or perhaps it’s something in the drinks).

If you decide to stay over : There are plenty of lovely hotels in the Cotswolds , such as The Wild Rabbit –the latest outpost from eco-queen Carole Bamford of Daylesford Organic fame.

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

The best day trip from London for : people-watching and scenery How to get there from London : The train from London King’s Cross takes 45 minutes.

Like cycling in Amsterdam or taking trams in San Francisco , punting really is the most sophisticated way to see the city of Cambridge and the university grounds. Scudamore’s is the oldest ‘chauffeur’ company and offers a more traditional tour, but board a boat from the Garret Hostel Bridge for a younger, more humorous experience (ask your punter why the GHB is also known as Orgasm Bridge). For lunch, foodPark is a top hawker convoy of Sri Lankan curries, wood-fired pizza and open-wide burgers that sets up from 12pm until 2pm in varying locations around Cambridge from Wednesday to Friday. For something more upscale, book one of Galleria’s terrace tables on the south side of the Magdalene Bridge, with British fusion food and views of the River Cam (your gluten- and dairy-free friends will thank you, as there are two separate menus specifically catering to their diets). In the autumn, the leaf-covered colleges are particularly picturesque as they turn red and rust, and in spring, Parker’s Piece is a scenic stretch of greenery from which to navigate (spot the lamppost that supposedly inspired the post in CS Lewis’ Narnia). From here, find eccentric English shop Bowes & Co, Fitzbillies for iced buns, Aromi for Italian nibbles, Kettle’s Yard art gallery and G David for antique books. Finish your day with the choral evensong at King’s College Chapel around 5.30pm: goosebumps guaranteed. For more ideas, see our guide to the best things to do in Cambridge .

If you decide to stay over : It doesn’t get much better than the iconic University Arms hotel , reopened in 2018 after a serious reboot.

Ashdown Forest, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for: welly-wielding outdoorsy types How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour to East Grinstead (a 15-minute drive from Forest Row).

AA Milne famously wrote the stories of Winnie the Pooh while living just north of Ashdown Forest. Known as 100 Acre Wood in Pooh’s world, the forest is home to the spellbinding stories and is an enchanting place to stretch your legs for a day, easily accessible via East Grinstead station. Stretches of open heathland give way to leafy walkways and carpets of bluebells in spring, where the woods teem with wildlife (spot fallow deer, badgers and the odd friendly pheasant–no honey-eating bears, though), and the only noise is birdsong. You can even visit Pooh Bridge (for a game of Poohsticks, naturally), but be warned, it’s a prominent tourist spot. Pooh was a big fan of having ‘a little smackerel of something’, and nearby village Forest Row has plenty of places for elevenses. Taffels deli is a family-run café and much-loved lunch spot (there is nothing skinny about the skinny chips; they are double-fried and divine) and caters to all dietary requirements, while Java & Jazz serves huge hot chocolates cakes and crispy-crusted pizza. For proper pub food, the cosy Hatch Inn (one of our favorite country pubs near London) is known for roasts with all the trimmings and offers plenty of dog-patting opportunities. If you’re not in a hurry to get home, head to Linton’s car park–locally known as ‘the viewpoint’–for sunset.

If you decide to stay over : Gravetye Manor is a very English Elizabethan country-house classic and one of our favorite weekend breaks in the UK .

Dungeness, Kent

The best day trip from London for : nature enthusiasts How to get there from London : The drive to Romney Marsh via the A20 and M20 takes 2 hours.

Arriving in Dungeness from London feels a little like stepping out of a Tardis into a different time zone, where a recent apocalypse has left the landscape barren, the wildlife overrun, the buildings flattened, and the population dramatically compromised (in fact, the Dungeness Power Station appeared in Doctor Who in 1971). Unofficially known as ‘Britain’s only desert’, Dungeness has a unique environment–single-story buildings appear to have been swallowed by the shingle and plants let loose with little regard for human-imposed order. The beach resembles a mass shipwreck; abandoned fishing boats, crumbling shacks, winches and forgotten tractors coated in decades of rust sit, untouched, unmoved and as mysterious as a Russell T Davies plot. There’s not a whole lot to do here – but there’s so much to see, and so much to pique your curiosity that you’ll spend the journey back Googling the area. Kids will love the sheer strangeness of it all, and it’s impossible to resist the childlike urge to climb and run and play. Few places so close to London feel like such an adventure; the journey can take less than two hours and, if you time it right, you can order the catch of the day for lunch from roadside hut the Snack Shack, which does the freshest fish, lobster rolls and ice-cold cans of San Pellegrino.

If you decide to stay over : You’ll have to venture out of Dungeness–try The Rose in Deal , a grown-up bolthole splashed with bold colors and covetable vintage finds.

The best day trip from London for : switching off How to get there from London: The train from London Waterloo to Dorking takes 50 minutes.

Surrey’s proximity to London makes the journey a breeze–and it’s an especially astute pick if you’re likely to be coming with a car full of little ones. At Henry VIII’s home Hampton Court Palace, there are family-friendly events such as beast quests and ghost tours, as well as the famous giant hedge maze, where adventurous kids can lead the troops. In winter, an ice rink is set against the historic backdrop of the palace, a building whose grandiose architecture is shaped by both the Tudor and Baroque periods. If you’re escaping the city (and the kids), however, check in at Grayshott Health Spa, a traditional country home with cutting-edge treatments. Surrounded by 47 acres of flowering gardens, it’s a peaceful place to step back and take stock. Connect with nature at Kew, too, where the Royal Botanic Gardens are open to the public all year round. The winter light show is particularly mesmerizing, when the sun starts to sink earlier and earlier. Be sure to take cash for mince pies and mulled wine as you wander through the grounds. Having been awarded a Michelin star, Steve Drake’s restaurant Sorrel in Dorking (a market town with chocolate-box charm) is currently the county’s hottest restaurant with the most exciting ‘discovery menu’.

If you decide to stay over : Surrey is home to some of the best spas near London, such as Grayshott, where the Manor House rooms offer faded charm.

Hastings and St Leonards

The best day trip from London for: old-school seaside charm How to get there from London: The fast train from London St Pancras International takes 1 hour 32 minutes with a change at Ashford International

There’s almost too much to fit into a one-day visit to Hastings, especially if you want to pop over to the neighbouring town of St Leonards. Over the last few years, these two East Sussex enclaves have become a popular bolthole for burnt-out Londoners looking for a bohemian seaside escape. To see what all the fuss is about, head straight to explore Hasting’s quaint Old Town, a picturesque maze of streets sandwiched between two dramatic cliffs. Pedestrianised scenic George Street is where most of the action happens, with a thrum of cafés, shops and pubs, but it’s worth wandering the surrounding streets too. Seek out AG Hendy & Co on the High Street for well-curated vintage homewares and stop into The Crown for cozy pub grub made with excellent local produce. If you’re up for a wander, get the funicular up and walk along to the cliff to Fairlight Glen, a beautiful secluded beach where clothing is optional. Or if that sounds a bit much, stay in the Old Town and explore the dramatic black fisherman’s huts on Rock-A-Nore beach where there’s Hastings Contemporary art gallery, a tiny shipwreck museum, fresh seafood stalls and a very cute miniature railway. Next up, take the 40-minute amble along the beach past the pier to St Leonards and stop off for food at the fabulous seafront café, Goat Ledge. It’s worth the trip for their crispy panko fish baps and katsu curry sauce chips alone. Nearby, there are great independent shops selling everything from candles to kimonos on Norman Road and King’s Road where you can easily spend a few hours happily browsing and café hopping before settling into dinner at Michelin-recommended pub The Royal. Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over: Book into The Old Rectory , a bijou b&b in Hasting’s Old Town with treatment rooms and a walled garden.

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Winter Tours in UK & Ireland

Warm the soul with a winter tour of britain & ireland.

Crisp, cooling air on your skin and the roaring fire crackling in the corner of the local pub. This is what you can experience when you partake in a winter tour of the UK and Ireland. Our small-group tours allow you to explore the captivating scenery this land is famous for, and if you come here during cooler seasons, you’ll enjoy exploring with fewer crowds and you’ll discover our lesser-known festive traditions.

Whether you opt for a Scottish tour of the mainland, a tour of England's historic cities or a tour of Ireland's coastal landscapes, experiencing our winter holidays from November until the end of March will leave you wanting to return for the other magical seasons.

Explore our winter tours

Warm Your Soul with a Winter Private Tour

This is where you let your imagination run wild. That Scottish adventure you and your friends have always talked about? Now is the time to make it happen, and we're here to help. With our special winter offer, starting from only £35 per person per day, you can get the bespoke experience you're looking for.

Why take a tour in winter?

Yours to Explore with Less Crowds

Picture this, you roam the scenic landscape with new found friends and you soak up the mystical stories from your knowledgeable driver-guide . Capturing the moments shared on a wintery day away has never been easier. With reduced numbers of visitors, you can explore knowing there are less queues at attractions and fewer tourists to crop out of your photos. Taking a tour during the winter months is as rewarding as in a different season.

See a Different Side

We love flowers in spring. The burn of heather in autumn. The shine of the sun in summer. But the dust of snow on a wild landscape is a special kind of beauty. And it's waiting to be discovered. You might be surprised by how many tours we run throughout winter, so why not treat yourself to an adventure?

Support the Local Community

Our winter tours are vital for local communities in quieter seasons. And getting to know the locals is a chance to experience our famous warm welcome. Hear their stories, get expert insights into the best attractions to visit, and stay in comfortable travel accommodation . You'll be giving back to these families and supporting the local economies when they need it most.

Winter Traditions

We’re not going to lie. Britain receives less light in winter. But over the course of thousands of years, customs and traditions have evolved to brighten up the season in fantastic ways, from Hogmanay in Edinburgh to Guy Fawkes Night. Especially in our departure cities, our driver-guides will be on hand to point you to the best of the events.

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for motorhoming & road trips

10 EPIC UK Winter Road Trips You NEED to Drive

Planning a winter road trip in the UK? Wondering whether you should head for the Northern Lights in Scotland, the snow-capped peaks in Wales, or use the time to visit popular locations like Cornwall or the Lake District? We’ve covered the best routes to help you choose your perfect UK winter road trip.

Don’t forget to grab your FREE road trip planner below to help keep you organised.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

JUMP AHEAD TO...

Why do a winter road trip in the UK?

Most people assume that you can’t go winter motorhoming or enjoy a road trip during a UK winter. But it’s actually one of the best times to explore the British Isles- quieter roads, incredible scenery and easy access to many of the beautiful National Parks we have on our doorstep.

Even better, many motorhome sites or camp grounds have reduced prices, as do many top attractions, so it really is a great time to explore.

All you need to do is make sure your vehicle is suitable for winter road trips, dress up warmly and then head out on your winter adventure!

The best UK winter road trip routes you can’t miss

We all have different priorities. That’s one of the things I love so much about road trips- the freedom to enjoy the things you like.

Even better, the UK has LOADS to enjoy during winter, including world-class Christmas markets, winter festivals, food festivals, snow sports and fantastic walking over moors and hills.

We’ve selected a variety of winter road trip ideas to help you choose the perfect option for you. Of course, you can pick and choose or combine ones to create your perfect winter getaway.

Make planning your next road trip EASY (& fun!)

When you’re planning a road trip, keeping track & organising all your ideas is often the hardest part. Fix that TODAY with our printable pdf road trip planner. Grab yours FREE now

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Tips for driving in winter

If you’re planning a winter road trip, there’s not much difference from planning a UK road trip at any other time of the year, but you do need to make sure of a few things.

Make sure your vehicle has been checked/ serviced and is capable of dealing with colder weather
If you’re travelling in a van, make sure your motorhome heating is working.
Make sure your tyres are safe and suitable for the roads. Even if there’s no snow, you can expect to drive in heavy rain at some point on your trip
Check windscreen wipers and screenwash levels
Carry drink and snacks with you
If you’re not planning a motorhome trip , be sure to carry a thermos of hot drink or a stove and kettle, just in case you get stuck somewhere cold. Also, have a couple of blankets with you too.
Make sure your phones are charged and ideally use a proper sat-nav with traffic updates so you can see if a road becomes blocked or closed.

The best winter road trip to see the Northern Lights

One of the best-kept secrets in northern UK is that you can often see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) from up there.

Sure, they’re not as consistent as some of the other best places in Europe to see the Northern Lights , but if they’re on your bucket list, it’s time to head north during winter.

Scotland Northern Lights Winter Road Trip

Total Distance: 516 miles

Recommended No. of Days: 4-5 days

Best time to visit: December, January, February

For the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights in Scotland, you’ll want to go as far north as possible. The further north you can get on your winter road trip, the better.

If you’re driving a motorhome or campervan, you may want to combine this with a NC500 motorhome tour which goes along the northern coast.

Stop at places like Sango Sands or Dunnet Bay near John o’Groats, but ideally you’ll want to get even further north. Orkney is easily accessible on a road trip, even if you just visit for a couple of days.

The best time to see the Northern Lights is between October and March. If you’re hoping to see them from Scotland or some of the northern Isles, November to February is your best bet. Just make sure to wrap up warmly- the best nights to see them are clear and cold!

If you’re in a motorhome or campervan, these are the North Coast 500 campsites open all year.

If you’d like to explore more , here’s the only NC500 itinerary and route planner you need.

If you’re up in Scotland, you can also visit the Cairngorms, home to Aviemore- the UK’s best ski and snowboarding resort

The best UK winter road trip ideas for Christmas Markets

We’re lucky that there is a decent Christmas Market in almost every big UK town or city.

Rather than visit your local one again, why not make a weekend of it and visit some further afield?

Nearly all have a campsite open all year nearby for motorhome holidays or campervan tours, or there are bed and breakfasts in every place for you to stay on your road trip.

Most UK Christmas Markets are open from last November, but some don’t open until mid-December, so be sure to check before you start your winter road trip.

Three UK road trip routes to see Christmas Markets

SOUTH CENTRAL

Start in Winchester (the Winchester Christmas Market is one of the best in England) and enjoy exploring the city.
Then head to Salisbury, where you’ll find another fantastic Christmas Market
From here, you can head to the Cotswolds, which are some of the most picturesque villages in the UK, or you can visit Bath, which is glorious at any time but especially good at Christmas.
Start at the Christmas Market in Birmingham, which is one of the biggest Christmas markets in the UK and the biggest authentic German market outside of Austria or Germany. Don’t forget your skates so you can ice skate on one of the rinks in the city.
From here, continue your England road trip and head to Stratford upon Avon, Warwick or Royal Leamington Spa for more traditional Christmas celebrations, or head to Lincoln, home of the oldest Christmas Market in the UK.
Edinburgh is one of the best cities to visit around Christmas time- the markets here are legendary.
Although this is a great place to stop on a Scotland road trip , you could also use it as the northern point of your winter road trip route, and head south to Newcastle or Durham.
After exploring these wonderful cities, head to Leeds, Manchester or Liverpool for more huge festivities.

Of course, you could easily spend a weekend road trip just in London, exploring the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park and all the smaller Christmas Markets around the city.

Best Winter road trips for hiking and outdoors

The UK has some fabulous National Parks, which are open all year. During summer months, they can get very crowded, but during winter you can often have places all to yourself!

If you’re living in a van over winter , don’t forget that many National Parks have overnight parking restrictions, so be sure to follow those. Here’s how to find places to stay overnight.

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland Winter Road Trip

Total Distance: 220 miles

Recommended No. of Days: 2-3 days

Best time to visit: November, December, January, February, March

The Causeway Coastal Route is one of the best winter road trips in Northern Ireland. Highlights include:

Giants Causeway
Carrick-a-rede rope bridge
Dunluce Castle
Dark Hedges

Winter road trip route idea

Start your Ireland road trip by visiting the famous Giants Causeway. It’s about a 90-minute drive from Belfast and try to get there as early as possible.
Visit nearby Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. In summer the queues can be lengthy, but in winter you shouldn’t have to wait long.
Another unique stop is the clifftop ruins of Dunluce Castle which hang above the sea below.
Don’t miss the Dark Hedges. This road features in Game of Thrones and is one of the most beautiful roads in Ireland. It was surprisingly badly signposted when we visited, so don’t miss it. If you’re motorhoming in Ireland you can’t drive down it- I’m not even sure you’ll make it in a campervan!

How long does it take to drive the Causeway coastal route?

You can comfortably drive the whole route in one weekend as it’s quite a short route- only 200 miles. You can actually do it in a day if you really push. Don’t miss the Titanic museum in Belfast- it’s incredible.

Want to visit southern Ireland? See ideas for the best winter road trips in Europe

Yorkshire Moors

Yorkshire is the perfect winter road trip destination. The moors look magical covered in snow but there are still plenty of places open all year.

Highlights of a Yorkshire road trip include :

Hardraw Force- England’s highest single-drop waterfall
The longest show cave in England- White scar
Ribblehead Viaduct
Hogsmeade station (or at least the station which played it in Harry Potter!)
Numerous castles and ruins

England road trip ideas and itinerary- england to Scotland road trip yorkshire

Yorkshire Road Trip Itinerary ideas

Start your road trip in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Visit the 11th century Skipton Castle or go underground to see the formations in White Scar Caves, the longest show cave in England.

Visit the waterfalls of Ingleton, Aysgarth Falls or Hardraw Force- England’s highest single-drop waterfall. These are even more impressive in winter with the increased rainfall.

Before leaving the Dales, visit the incredible monastic ruins and landscaped gardens of Fountains Abbey.

Next, head to the city of York. You can visit Viking, Roman, Georgian and Victorian sites all in one day! Don’t miss a stroll along the cobbled Shambles, which has often been voted the ‘Best Street in Britain.’

Lastly, head out onto the moors. Stop at Goathland train station (Hogsmeade station in the Harry Potter movies.)

Alternatively, stretch your legs with a hike at the Hole of Horcum, a huge ancient natural amphitheatre.

If you’re looking for a weekend UK road trip idea, head to one of the prettiest National Parks in the UK- Snowdonia in Wales.

Snowdonia in winter- epic winter road trip ideas

Snowdonia is actually part of two of the Wales Way driving routes – North and Cambrian and it’s easy to see why.

Pretty much everything in Snowdonia involves being outdoors, so make sure you bring appropriate clothing for the time of year. In winter, you’re likely to get rain, cold and very possibly snow.

There are plenty of great roads with spectacular scenery and the stars at night are unreal, especially on a crisp Winter night.

Planning a trip to Wales?

Grab your FREE guide to the Wales Way road trip routes, including:

suggested routes around Wales
best places to see on your trip
campsites to stay at along the way
and other tips for touring Wales

The best winter road trip routes for popular UK destinations

Winter is the perfect time to visit places which are usually crazy busy.

Places like Cornwall, Devon, the Lake District and the Cotswolds are much quieter and easier to explore on the road trip.

Here are our favourite road trip ideas:

Cornwall is one of our favourite places to road trip in England. I spent 2 years living there whilst I was in the Navy, and have been back many times since. There are plenty of things to do in Cornwall , but there are some important tips you need to know before you arrive!

Why is Cornwall one of the best England road trips?

If you want cute villages, incredible beaches and more history than you can shake a stick at, Cornwall is perfect. Although some places do close in winter, many of the main attractions remain open all year, and the lack of crowds makes it even better.

How long should you spend roadtripping Cornwall?

How long is a piece of string!! But, as you can see on our Cornish road trip itinerary , we recommend 7-10 days minimum to see all the best places.

Where are the best places to visit in Cornwall on a road trip?

Some of my absolute favourite places in Cornwall include:

Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave – home of King Arthur!
Land’s End
Boscastle- the village of the witches!
Minack Theatre
St Michael’s Mount
Newquay for surfing and general coolness
St Nectan’s glen- one of the best and most beautiful waterfalls in Europe

For a full list of the best places to visit on a Cornwall road trip, visit our Cornwall Road Trip Itinerary & Guide

Even in Winter, Devon is a fantastic road trip destination. It’s still full of cute villages, beautiful hills and beaches and plenty of cafes!

Highlights and best places to visit in Devon

My parents live here, so I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the county. Some of my favourite include:

Dartmouth- one of the best towns in the county. Hire a boat and explore the river.
Paignton- the beach with the red sand
Exmouth with its beautiful painted houses
Saunton Sands
Fish and Chips from Squires in Braunton
Salcombe Harbour
Dulverton- head to the Copper Kettle tea room; you won’t regret it!

See the full list of my favourite Devon road trip ideas here.

Lake District

The Lake District National Park is a perfect UK winter road trip idea. It has some of the worlds best scenic drives and a trip along the Honister Pass and Kirkstone Pass are a must- although if it’s snowed heavily they may be closed.

The Castlerigg stone circle is also worth a stop, as are the pretty towns of Keswick and Cockermouth.

In the South Lakes, Grasmere (home of William Wordsworth) is worth visiting and if you love Beatrix Potter, you can visit her home in Hawkshead. There is also Beatrix Potter World in Bowness- on- Windermere.

Some other highlights for winter road trips include:

The largest natural lake in the UK, Lake Windermere. Some boat tours run all year but wrap up warmly
The Punch Bowl Inn in Crosthwaite.
Aira Force Waterfall
The views at Derwentwater

Cotswolds – a magical UK winter road trip

The Cotswolds is the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in England and Wales and it looks SPECTACULAR in winter.

Highlights & Best places to visit in the Cotswolds and surrounding area

The beautiful stone villages of the Cotswolds (Bourton-on-the-Water is one of my personal favourites)
visit the historic city of Bath
marvel at the mysterious ancient stones of Stonehenge
stop at the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral.

Wiltshire & Cotswolds winter road trip itinerary

Ideally, spend 3-4 days exploring as many lovely little towns and villages of the Cotswolds as you wish to. Some of the prettiest villages include Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter, Bourton-on-the-Water and Castle Combe.
The historic city of Bath is only a 30-minute drive from the village of Castle Combe- well worth a visit. Don’t miss visiting the Roman baths and having a cream tea in the tea rooms there.
If you have time, head East to Stonehenge. If you’re in a motorhome or camper, you can camp overnight at Stonehenge (This is where we saw the most INCREDIBLE sunrise we’ve EVER seen. (Seriously, watch the video. It’s breathtaking)
From Stonehenge, it’s only a 20-minute drive into the medieval town of Salisbury, where you can explore Salisbury Cathedral which has the tallest spire in all of Britain!

If you’re planning a UK road trip, you might find these posts helpful:

How to plan a UK road trip
The BEST UK road trips
17 incredible motorhome destinations in the UK
One week in England- awesome itinerary ideas

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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One comment.

I have been thinking of taking a road trip for a long time but wasn’t able to finalize it. This blog has made it easy for me. The Dales and The Lakes have impressed me a lot and I will start my journey from here.

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The best winter road trips in the UK

By Discover More UK

Published: 26 August 2022

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Love it or hate it, winter in the UK can make travelling difficult. With shorter days, biting weather and a whole load of rain (or maybe even snow!) winter road trips in the Uk might not be the first thing that comes to mind.

But thanks to the UK’s great infrastructure, some of the best road trips UK has to offer can also be completed in the winter months too.

Whether you’re looking for winter day trips from London, the best places to drive in UK winters, or just some UK in winter travel inspiration, we’ve asked travel bloggers to contribute their best winter road trips in the UK to help you decide.

A quick safety note: Being properly prepared is essential for any winter driving. You should always have your recovery and breakdown details to hand should you become stranded. Carry snow chains if necessary. Always carry extra layers, food and water. Always let someone know where you’re going and make sure your car is in good condition to travel.

Read on to discover the best road trips for winter travel in the UK.

A winding road leading through a large rocky gorge. Rocks are sharp and covered in moss

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Winter road trips in England

North yorkshire road trip.

The ruins are a large abbey, looking eerie and imposing in the sunset light, surrounded by grass

North Yorkshire is a seriously underrated option if you’re looking for fun winter road trips in the UK.

With well-maintained roads connecting major towns and the A171 connecting the coast from Scarborough to Whitby and beyond, this is a great option for seeing the delights of the North Yorkshire Coast and Moors without the summer crowds!

Start in Scarborough where you can enjoy this traditional seaside town. Although it’s a bit too cold for the beach and swimming in the sea, the coast is still beautiful and there’s plenty of family friendly indoor activities like arcades, Luna Park and Scarborough Castle.

Head up the coast and stop by the famous smuggler’s village, Robin Hoods Bay. Enjoy hot tea and scones in a cafe, or brave some fresh fish and chips by the beach which is great for a stroll when the tide is low.

From here, it’s just a short drive to Whitby, the famous inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula! The ruins of Whitby Abbey are open all year round but even if you don’t pay to go inside, the eerie silhouette at the top of the hill is spooky to see in the short winter days! Don’t miss the 199 steps, colourful beach huts and fantastic array of shops and restaurants in Whitby too.

Further up the coast you’ll also find the charming coastal town of Staithes. Or you can choose to head inland and drive through the dramatic Yorkshire Moors. Although roads are generally kept clear here, please take precautions, have car recovery options and take extra food, drinks and layers!

In the Moors you could visit Goathland Station, famous as the station from the Harry Potter movies. Or explore the charming villages in North Yorkshire too.

If you’re looking for a city base to explore the area more, or if you’re planning another stop on your journey, consider Leeds, York or Harrogate. Alternatively Durham is a beautiful stop if you continue your journey north.

Helena of Discover More UK

Dorset Jurassic Coast road trip

Looking down a grassy bank to a beach below with turquoise see and a stone archway in the water.

Known to be one of the best winter road trips in Europe thanks to its easy accessibility, dramatic coastline and variety of attractions, the Jurassic Coast is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in England in winter.

The beauty of Dorset for UK winter road trips is how easy it is to explore. Choose a base such as Swanage, Wareham, West Lulworth, Dorchester or Weymouth, and discover the many amazing Dorset day trips you can take.

Explore the Isle of Portland, enjoy fresh crab at the Crab House cafe and head to Portland Bill. Or enjoy famous spots like Durdle Door, Man O’War Beach, Lulworth Cove or Old Harry Rocks without the summer crowds.

Take shelter in the charming coastal towns of Weymouth or Swanage to enjoy great restaurants, bars or cafes.

Or if the weather is too bad, head to the world famous Tank Museum for a day out the whole family can enjoy. With spectacular displays, interactive exhibitions and plenty of history.

Helena from Discover More UK

Bath to Glastonbury road trip and the Somerset Levels

A large grassy lawn with an old stone building partially in ruins, built in red stone with large windows like a church

This road trip starts in the Georgian city of Bath and takes you across the stunning Mendip Hills and down Cheddar Gorge.

The route then follows the edge of the Somerset Levels to the smallest city in England of Wells before ending in Glastonbury.

It is then possible to return to Bath or continue to explore Somerset and further west.

The route can be completed in a day but is much better spread over two days with a night in Wells.

It is ideal for a winter road trip as it starts in an easily accessible city and while the Mendip Hills are wild and remote it is easy to adjust the route to miss any difficult road conditions.

The Mendips can be very icy in the winter and very foggy, but there are main roads to Cheddar, Wells and Glastonbury from Bath.

Along the route you will drive down Cheddar Gorge with its high cliffs and deep caves. Just a little further along from Cheddar is the Wookey Hole caves complex which is deeper than the caves at Cheddar.

Wells is a beautiful small city with the Cathedral and adjacent Bishop’s Palace. Even in the winter months the Palace gardens are worth exploring.

Glastonbury has an eclectic mix of shops and cafes as well as the well known Tor which is a good walk whatever the weather although it can be windy at the tower in the winter.

Glastonbury also has haunting abbey ruins which are believed to be the resting place of King Arthur and Guinevere.

Suzanne from Meandering Wild

Brighton winter day trip

A clear sunny day on a pier with a sign that reads 'brighton pier'. Union jack flags are flying

If you’re eager to plan a winter day trip from London, then look no further than Brighton. Which is just a short, easy drive by car or easily reached by train in just 1 hour, definitely one of the best day trips from London in winter.

With plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to suit whatever the weather, don’t miss the Brighton Pier, fish & chips on the beach (a must for any time of year!), the Royal Pavilion and the independent shops and boutiques in Brighton Lanes.

For indoor activities, don’t miss Sealife, the i360 tower’s epic views, Brighton Museum and Art Gallery and the House of Illusions.

Speaking of illusions, don’t forget to look out for the famous Brighton Upsidedown house!

If you do plan to stay in Brighton longer, it’s also a great base to see other beautiful areas of the south coast, including the Seven Sisters Cliffs, South Downs National Park, Arundel Castle, Hastings or Camber Sands.

Winter road trips in Wales

North wales expressway road trip.

A stretch of long sand beach and the sea at lowtide. A path runs along the right side with people walking on it

If you are looking for an amazing coastal road trip in winter, there is no better option than driving North Wales Expressway. It connects Cheshire with North Wales and offers incredible views of the beaches and surrounding mountains.

The North Wales Expressway stretches for over 80 miles and the final destination at Holy Island will take your breath away. The impressive lighthouse Goleudy Ynys Lawd looks so dramatic during winter on the Welsh coast.

This road trip is abundant not only in many natural attractions but also in historic buildings. You can visit the historic castle in Conwy or explore medieval Conwy Town Walls. There are also many other amazing castles nearby such as Penrhyn Castle & Garden.

However, a road trip in Wales without stopping at one of the most beautiful waterfalls cannot be complete. Aber Falls is just a short drive from North Wales Expressway. It is also a perfect place to visit during winter due to the easy and flat walk.

Driving this route from Chester takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, but with so many areas to explore, it is recommended to plan a longer trip. One of the best places to stay is in Conwy or Llandudno. The next day, head off to Anglesey Island where you can find cheaper accommodations during the off-season. It is a very popular destination in summer, so a UK winter road trip will allow you to save money and avoid the crowds.

If you fancy, on your way back stop at one of the beaches to admire beautiful sunsets. Whether it is Conwy Morfa Beach or Colwyn Bay Beach, both of them are set in beautiful scenery.

Paulina from UK Every Day

Pembrokeshire Coast road trip

While your instinct might be to say that this is a summer road trip, the dramatic and beautiful coastline of Pembrokeshire is just as beautiful all year round, plus it remains accessible throughout the year.

An added bonus is that you can see famous spots like St Davids, Tenby or Saundersfoot without the crowds.

Enjoy the colourful town of Tenby with its beautiful beaches and array of restaurants and independent shops and boutiques. Discover South Wales hidden gems such as St Govans Chapel or the Blue Lagoon, both easily accessible from car parks off the coastal roads.

You could choose to start in Cardiff for a longer route and include the stunning Gower Peninsula, or base yourself in Tenby to take a few day trips in the area.

Although roads in Pembrokeshire are narrow and windy, most are well-maintained for local access throughout the year.

The Wales coast path is a brilliant easy option for winter walks in Wales and the winter weather means it’s the perfect opportunity to stop by a cosy country pub for a warm meal and a drink by the fire.

Snowdonia road trip

Snowdonia National Park in North Wales is an inspiring UK destination that attracts adventure lovers, hikers and those who generally just enjoy the outdoors.

If you’re planning a Wales winter road trip around Snowdonia then choosing the right base is essential. While there are many places to choose from, one of the most popular areas is Betws-y-Coed. This start/finish point is a small village but it has trendy and traditional restaurants, bars and boutiques with ample accommodation.

A short drive away is Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales offering several challenging hiking trails. If you tackle this in winter, then you must be prepared. Take the edge of the hike with the Mountain train from Clogwyn station which will take you ¾ of the distance to the summit. Even if you don’t make it to the top, you still have stunning landscapes and viewpoints, and you can explore one of the 100 lakes or hidden waterfalls.

Next up on your road trip is the Italian-inspired village of Portmeirion. Entrance is not free but the architecture and uniqueness of this location is worth the small fee. Expect scenic walks, a visit to the estuary and lots of quirky shops. A short drive north and you can also stop in Porthmadog, a beautiful coastal town.

However, if you want a big dose of adrenaline, then enjoy the thrills of the Snowdonia Zip Wire or mountain go-karts located in Penrhyn Quarry in Bethesda. Or if conditions aren’t the best then head to Blaeneufestiniag to experience the underground Zip World Slate Caverns or ‘bounce below’ in an underground cave. If you have your family with you, the Zip Forest has other adventurous activities that are suitable for all ages. Best of all, they’re all within 30 minutes or so of your base.

Give yourself at least 3 days to do this road trip and enjoy what Wales has to offer.

Kerry Hanson from Adrenaline Junkiez

South Wales road trip

Looking down a snowy hillside in Wales. Fields and mountains in the distance

If you are looking for a safe and scenic road trip to do in the Winter in the UK, South Wales is a fantastic option.

Thanks to the M4 corridor connecting the whole of South Wales, you can see so many places, in only a few hours. To see the very best of South Wales, the Cardiff to Carmathern road trip is the best. From ancient castles to rustic pubs to escape the cold, this winter road trip offers something for everyone.

Taking a road trip in Winter can be overwhelming, especially in the harsher icy and darker conditions. This is why driving this route is great for all driving abilities. Not only is this road well maintained and well lit throughout the year but is one of the easiest routes to drive in all winter conditions.

The best way to complete this South Wales road trip is to start in Cardiff and drive along the M4 until you reach Carmarthen. There are lots of stops along the way so you can pick as many or as little as you like.

There are some great things to do on this road trip to get a taste of Wales. Cardiff itself is full of amazing things to do for every type of visitor. One great thing to do here is visit the Castle in the city centre.

As you drive from Cardiff you will have plenty of options to visit some incredible landscapes. For great beaches, you should stop off at Bridgend. If you want to see waterfalls surrounded by snow, Neath has plenty of options. Not far from Neath you will find the Black Mountain road which offers the most amazing views when it has been snowing. And for bespoke gifts and great food options, you have to visit Carmarthen town centre.

If you are looking to do a road trip in little time, this is one of the best in Wales. You could do this Wales road trip in one day or over a few if you choose to spend the night in a few places. No matter your time and budget, this UK Winter road trip is for everyone.

Lowri from Many Other Roads

Winter road trips in Scotland

Scottish highlands road trip.

Very calm surface of a lake like a mirror, trees line the right side and a mountain the distance

The Scottish highlands are beautiful all year round. But in winter, the low sun, snow-capped peaks and chill in the air really add a magical touch.

For those of you who love to make the most of your annual leave allowance, travelling around the new year is a great way to maximise leave. With the possibility of snow, Scotland is the best road trip for Christmas in the UK. And, nowhere celebrates harder than Scotland for Hogmanay (or New Year’s Eve to most of us). It’s then that these sleepy villages in the highlands come alive with street parties. Think live music, dancing, drinking and a heart-warming atmosphere.

And, for most of us Brits, the best way to get to Scotland is a good ol’ road trip. While technically this roughly 1-week Scotland road trip route starts wherever you are, Stirling and Falkirk are good first stops for history and unique sights, such as the Kelpies and Wallace Monument.

From there, continue north into the Cairngorms National Park to bear witness to the best of natural Scottish beauty. Pristine lochs, endless countryside and beautiful views.

Grantown-on-Spey is a good base here and hosts a street party on the main road for Hogmanay, although nearby Aviemore is also popular with more shops, hotels and restaurants (and tourists). Be sure to visit Loch Garten just after sunrise for a majestic view over the still water and snow-capped mountains.

When returning south, Glenfinnan is quite out of the way but is worth the visit, especially for fans of Harry Potter. Alternatively, a night or two in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is worthwhile for the cool walks, natural beauty and slow pace of life.

Even with the limited hours of daylight, you can still see and experience so much. The roads are well maintained making for easy driving even in less than ideal conditions, although breakdown cover should be considered an essential just in case!

Zoe from Zoe Goes Places

Isle of Skye road trip

Rugged coastline of Isle of Skye with orange grass, blue sea and pink sky at sunset

One of the best road trips in December has got to be to Scotland and the Scottish islands. With the magical landscape even more transformed by the good chance of snow.

Although bad weather means unreliable (or even unreachable!) crossing conditions to reach the islands, the Isle of Skye is fortunate enough to be the only island connected to the mainland in Scotland by a bridge, making it perfect for road trips in winter.

Take the Skye Bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh and explore this stunning island without the summer crowds.

Don’t miss colourful Portree, drive the Trotternish Loop, see the Fairy Glen and the famous Old Man of Storr (although don’t attempt to climb it in poor weather conditions unless you’re very well-prepared).

While it is possible to do an Isle of Skye day trip in the summer when the days are longer, in the winter it’s suggested that you stay overnight on the Isle of Skye and make the most of the quieter and cheaper accommodation!

Winter road trips in Northern Ireland

Causeway coast road trip.

hexagonal basalt columns of rock at the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland with a green cliff in the background

The Causeway Coast driving route is one of the best road trips for winter, whether you’re planning for the best road trips in February or November, this popular road is well-maintained and well-travelled throughout the year.

Being well connected to Belfast, Londonderry and many other coastal towns and villages in between, this is the perfect easygoing winter road trip UK countries have to offer!

Of course you can’t miss Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO Heritage site, the Giant’s Causeway, there’s also plenty more North Ireland attractions. Don’t miss Downhill Beach, Mussenden Temple, Portrush, Dunluce Castle ruins and the famous Dark Hedges.

You need at least a couple of days on the Causeway route, depending on how many stops you do. There are plenty of places to stay along the way, or you could base yourself in Belfast and take day trips to some of the main coastal attractions.

Summary: Winter road trips in UK

As you can see, there are plenty of good winter road trips in the UK and hopefully this guide has given you some inspiration for your UK winter trips this year as well as some ideas for places to visit in the UK in winter.

Despite the shorter days, travelling in the winter also comes with cheaper accommodation prices, less crowds and an opportunity to see landscapes in a completely new way – maybe even with snow!

Of course being properly prepared is essential for any winter driving. Make sure you have your recovery details to hand should you breakdown, always carry extra layers, food and water. Always let someone know where you’re going, carry snow chains if necessary and make sure your car is in good condition to travel.

Pin for later to plan your future trip!

Pinnable image with 4 images of Isle of Skye, North Yorkshire, Giants Causeway and Cheddar Gorge. Overlay text reads 'Top 10 UK winter road trip routes'

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10 Perfect Winter day trips from London | Discover new ideas for a city break in UK

Winter day trips from London will be your guide to the top destinations outside in UK. Where to go from London by train. Easy and cheap London one day trips

Last Update: December 4, 2023

From London, you can reach every corner of the United Kingdom and North Europe. In two hours of flight, you can reach Spain, France and even Italy. That makes London one of the best places to stay, due to the multiple options for your escape. We have focused on the best winter day trips from London, nothing that will get you on a plane, just what you can reach easily by car, train or bus.

The best way to comprehend the proper British countryside is to go away from the Capital, take a one day trip to Bath, or Windsor and uncover the best in the UK .

Cardiff | Wales

Portsmouth | london weekend breaks, windsor | winter day trips from london, bath | london breaks, york | a charming day trip from london.

Through our Post about London, we will help you with your holiday plan, and give you some more chances about your next Uk winter breaks . As you can see you can easily have nice information about winter day trips from London, London weekend breaks and general London break s . We will also you to plan about where to stay in London for a weekend

London Weekend Breaks in Winter

There are a lot of places to visit in the UK , winter day trip from London will be your travel guide for your next trip to the United Kingdom. As an ex-pat couple, we love to explore the world, and before discovering Europe we started in the UK. Based in London and going around Great Britain.

Which is the best period for a day trip from London?

Well if you love the Christmas markets, around November, December it is the best. But even this, October in the last few years has given nice and warm days out. If you are lucky and is still nice you can plan an outdoor visit in October, or postpone it to early spring. March or April, or wait for nice weather and better conditions in May, June. If you love the seaside, Portsmouth, Brighton , or Southend-on-Sea , you need to wait until Summertime or September for enjoying the best locations.

The best winter day trips in Uk are across the Xmas Period , it’s when all the cities are blinking lights.

I must say this year the winter came very late. So we can’t complain. But most of the people are asking how cold is England during the winter and usually around those months the weather is really cold in all of the UK . Be ready to put the jumpers, scarves, gloves, and hats in your luggage.

Winter day trips from London

Brighton seascape -i360 attraction in Brighton

As we love the sea, we have been to Brighton a couple of times already, during summer and even during winter.

The easiest way to reach Brighton is by train . The price is not expensive if you know where to find them. For example, during the weekends all the prices are going up as usual, but Brighton remains one of the best winter day trips from London . By train, it is only 1h and 15 minutes away. From Lon don, there are a lot of departing places such as London Bridge, London Victoria, and London Blackfriars . The departures of the trains are every 10 minutes.

Do you want to stay more in Brighton? See our post on things to do in Brighton in one day.

In Brighton, you can spend just 24hours and you will be able to see the most important attractions, like one of our favourites, is Brighton Pier, you can book a ticket in the early morning and come back in the evening or you can find cheap accommodation for only £50.

Book here your entrance to the Royal Pavilion in Brighton.

The best thing to do and we highly recommend will be staying overnight. Taking this advice you can do everything without any stress and you will enjoy more your winter day trip from London . Paying a visit to Brighton is going directly into the list of the best day trips from London by car. It is just 1 hour and a half from London. If you are planning a day trip to Brighton , you can even pass from East Sussex. As we have said before the car is not the only option to reach Brighton. You can make this trip by bus departing from Victoria Coach Station .

For more London inspiration, check our ultimate London bucket list where you will find all the experiences you have to do while in the city!

London Breaks

The beautiful view from the tower of St. Mary the Virgin Church in Oxford

Oxford is one of the best winter day trips from London. The city is not really far. The distance by bus is 2h. If you take a bus early in the morning you can be there around lunchtime and enjoy the small city. The city centre is small but it is really nice. The city is cosy especially during Christmas time. it is even more adorable as you will visit all the Xmas Markets.

We really like our journey to Oxford, I must say it was one of the best London breaks, as it is very close and in only one day we could spend some time outside our routine.

From London, you can buy the tickets online with Megabus, and you can take the bus from London Victoria and Marble Arch. With just £9 you can have your return tickets from London to Oxford. If you are planning your day trip to Oxford bear in mind that all the shops are closing early. As per our experience, we suggest booking your return ticket for around 5.30 pm or 6.00 pm, as all the shops close at that time.

Book here your full day in Oxford including the train transfer.

Also Read: Amazing free things to do in Oxford

Stepping into Cambridge you feel different emotions compared to Oxford. The small town is definitely different from the others and hosts one of the most renewed universities in the world. There are a lot of buses going from London to Cambridge . With National Express you can go from Victoria Coach Station to Cambridge Parkside. This stop in Cambridge is close to the city centre. The tickets are not expensive, but you always need to check in advance as most of the time the prices are going up when Christmas is coming.

You can plan your winter trips from London in just one day, going in the morning and coming back in the evening, but not in the late evening as, in Cambridge, like Oxford, all the shops are closing very early.

See what you can do in Cambridge in one day.

We were very surprised when around 5 pm the shops were starting to close. We are used to staying in London at the weekend when the shops are closing late.

Reserve here your full-day tour to Oxford and Cambridge.

It is really impossible, to be honest on which is a better day trip from London Oxford or Cambridge. But for sure if you are looking for a relaxing day out, meaning just to chill, you are looking where are the best places to visit for a day trip near London .

It is amazing, with nice landscapes and deep dales. The Winter in London, England, could be really cold. It doesn’t mean is not worth to be visited.

Are you planning a trip to London? See all the non-touristy things to do in the London itinerary.

Despite common sense, it will say Summer is the best time to explore and go outdoor, we will suggest you explore places near you even in winter. There is a lot of reason behind this suggestion. First of all, a day trip in winter will be less expensive. Also, do you really know what is it like to travel to London during the winter months of December January?

London weekend breaks

Cardiff, it is a good winter day trip from London , it is one of the cities which is a bit far away, by bus it will take around 3 hours. There are tickets available on the Megabus website. The best option is to take a bus which will stop halfway so you will have the opportunity to scratch your legs.

Cardiff is a really nice city, where you will be able to take some nice pictures as well.

During the day there are not too many people, but once the night is approaching everyone is going out, even if it is cold, raining, or snowing. We felt we were in London again.

There is a lot of nightlife even if it is a small city, but at least you know that you can enjoy your day out of London. Going to Cardiff by bus from London, you will pass by Bristol . This is one of the most famous cities in England. If you are trying to reach Wales by bus, car, or Train you will pass by the Cotswolds .

This track could be clearly assumed as one of the best train trips from London in winter. Call this Costwolds day trip from London as “Castle day trips from London” , and let us know if you have loved it.

READ ALSO | How to spend one day in Cardiff and 15 Free Things to do in Cardiff

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Manchester Official (@visitmanchester) on Apr 23, 2019 at 8:07am PDT

Manchester needs to be on your top list when you will decide to explore the UK. You can easily reach Manchester by train from London Euston. If you are planning your day trip to Manchester be ready to stay overnight as the journey is already long as by train it will take 4 hours. There are different trains which are going to Manchester.

There are Virgin trains , which depart every 20 minutes and the journey will take around 2h and the price is starting from £27 but it will always depend on which dates are you going and the period.

You can take the train direct to Manchester from many stations in London. The trains are departing from Euston, London Bridge, London Blackfriars.

All of those cities are the perfect deal for winter day trips from London. There is a lot to see in the UK and those are on our top list which you can’t miss if you are visiting the UK.

Lake District as the perfect summer trip from London

Things to do around Manchester | Peak District National Park

Close to Manchester, there are many wild areas. The Peak District is absolutely a stunning place where relax surrounded by nature. The National Park is full of stunning walk paths, gorgeous landscapes, green meadows, and little streams. While going to Manchester, why don’t plan a few days in the Peak District?

Visit Liverpool

Close to Manchester, there is Liverpool, it is a nice escape from London, you can reach the northern city by train from Liverpool Street Station or even by bus. The same line going to Manchester will reach before Liverpool. If you are planning a day trip from London, discovering this norther British city, you will understand that there are a lot of things to visit in Liverpool .

As you can see it is easy to reach those two northern England cities, the meeting point for the link networks is in central London, or even you can find some connections from Victoria Station and take your train ride.

Liverpool or Manchester are the classic one day trip from London by train or a 2-day trip from London. All Londoners have done it once.

Does someone say city break? Birmingham is not too far from London is only 1 h and 30 minutes. It is perfect for a small Winter day trip from London.

As Birmingham is very close to London you can think about an early train in the morning. After the visit to the city, you can come back to London in the evening. As always we suggest is to plan your journey in advance. Sometimes at the last minute, the price can be more high than usual. A book two weeks in advance will save you a lot of money.

The first impression we had about Birmingham was good. Alessia was extremely happy, because of the presence of many malls. On top of the shopping centres in Birmingham, there is the Bull Ring. This city is not just malls, there are a lot of things to see and do in Birmingham.

The most known by travellers is the Cadbury World, a chocolate factory, that has made the history of the UK.

Here you can visit the factory and watch the process. There are also great interactive exhibitions.

It is easy to reach Birmingham even by bus, thanks to multiple links to one of the biggest cities in the United Kingdom. We can clearly assume it could be a half-day trip from London. This place has a high concentration of Shopping Centres. Also, all the sightseeing is on the riverside. The city is the perfect location for winter day trips from London by train and bus.

This is the perfect place if you love the beach and the sea. It is the right city where to stay in for one night and enjoy this cute and small city close to London.

There are direct trains from London Waterloo direct to Portsmouth Harbour or Portsmouth Southsea.

The first time we have been to Portsmouth, we were a bit lost. We started just to follow our aim. Check your ticket before purchasing it. It is very important to know your final destination. Step out at Portsmouth Harbour if you are going to stay for just one day in Portsmouth. For staying for more than one day, check where is your accommodation because the stop at Southsea is in the city centre.

If you love the sea at any time of the year Portsmouth is a really cute city.

I must say during Summertime it is the best solution, but we do love going to the beach even during Wintertime as we adore to listen to the sound of the sea waves.

Portsmouth is a quiet city. You can still have a lot of people around and so many amenities, without the craziness and stress of London. We have been here during Christmas Time. It was so nice, and the best of it was the shopping centre close to the harbour. For the perfect accommodation, we suggest the Holiday Inn Express. This hotel is located in the heart of the city centre. It is close to all the shops and is not really expensive. If you don’t want to be in the central area, but want to stay in a quiet place there is the Holiday Inn. It is just a 20-minute walk in a quiet part of Portsmouth.

Windsor Castle UK - London day trips by train

Windsor was our second winter day trip from London. I was really excited as I was searching online and I saw some amazing pictures, so Toti decides to surprise me, like always, and he bought tickets to go to Windsor.

The perfect and easiest journey as Windsor is located only 45 minutes away from London by train.

Windsor is the closest winter day trip from London we can propose to you. The ticket is bookable online with Trainline . If you depart from London Paddington, there are many trains going to Windsor . Not all the trains are direct, there is the chance that you have to change the train. Usually, the changing station is at Slough Station. There are a lot of stations available from London for your day trip.

Book here your trip to Windsor, including Oxford and Stonehenge.

Planning in advance for this journey from London not only saves you a lot of money but also time.

You can skip the train change, booking a couple of weeks in advance, taking your place on the train before the others. For example from London Euston, you need to change twice before reaching Windsor.

Top Tips: There are two stations in Windsor. Windsor & Eton Central and Windsor & Eton Riverside.

Which is the difference and which one is close to Windsor Castle?

The closest one to the beautiful Castle is Windsor & Eton Central. The station is located close to all the shops and restaurants. Take a break before making your journey back to London. Have your coffee before starting exploring Windsor. The Castle is the main attraction in Windsor. You must visit it, especially after the Royal Wedding.

The tickets are available online and if you plan your winter day trips from London you can book them in advance so you can jump the queue.

The price per adult is £21.20 and for any other future information, you can visit the official website of the castle. As soon as we do have the opportunity we prepare our backpack. Ready to explore new cities and places near London.

The great capital of the Uk is a big city and offers you a lot. One of the greatest things we earn living in London is that we can travel for cheap.

Bath one day itinerary - Uk Trips from London - Europe Travel

If you are planning your winter day trips from London , Bath can be on your list. The easiest way is from Victoria coach station, as there are a lot of National Express buses going to Bath. London to Bath bus will take around 3 hours, it depends if the time that you are travelling; it can take up to 3 hours depending if you are travelling during the pick time or not.

Plan your trip to Bath in advance and you can save money as well!

We spent one day in Bath and we just pay £10 each to go and come back. I know is unbelievable, but if you check on the National Express website, you can find even £3 one way. Bath itinerary one day will be one of the best solutions to break up your routine from London as it is a small city but really nice.

Considering to visit York for a winter retreat close to London, will be the best deal. The city of York has been considered by many as the centre of the exchange routes between South England and the North of the Island.

York is just 2 hours away by train from Londo n, and from here you can reach Manchester in 1 Hour and 20 minutes, Edinburgh in 2 hours and a half and even Cardiff will take a bit longer in a train ride.

York is ideal for a UK Micro gap, an ancient environment with ancient walls dating back to the Romans roots and Viking past. Today York is a charming city in the middle of England , pulling with independent boutiques and amazing coffee shops. York is halfway between London and Edinburgh, the ideal location to unwind and chill before a business trip or right after.

The city is surrounded by the amazing Yorkshire Dales, thousands of square miles of moors, valleys, hills, and villages. If you are keen to drive, you can enjoy one of the best scenic road trips in the United Kingdom . From here is also worth visiting Leeds. Place York on your list of Day trips from London by train.

Cornwall | A break from London

On the Southern west coast of England the is Cornwall, a beautiful place filled with traditions and unique landscapes. Despite visit Cornwall can’t be included as the perfect day trip from London, this will be the ideal location to break your daily routine.

Organize your itinerary from London, discovering Cornwall by train or car. Enjoy the futuristic Eden project, marvel around St. Michael’s Mount, wander around typical Cornish houses, delve into local food or enjoy the seascape of Newquay.

Ultimate London Bucket List

More day trips ideas.

Things to do in Cheltenham

How to spend one day in Gloucester

Greenwich day out

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Hi travellers! Welcome to Italian Trip Abroad an award-winning travel blog, telling stories about our trips around the world, in search of the best destinations that tells stories. We love to offer deep guides, with the use of photos and videos. Read our story and how we got here!

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Meet the Authors: Toti and Ale

We're Toti and Ale, avid travellers, award-winning writers, and photographers living life one stamp at a time. We have been in more than 35 countries, hand in hand, offering inspiring guides on Italian Trip Abroad and other award-winning travel blogs. We are London-based, but we travel the world as Digital Nomads with a purpose: to help you travel more and better in a sustainable way . You can find us here, offering tips for backpackers, itineraries or guides to cross Italy and get on the most insane adventures. Join us as we explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, savour the beauty of slow travel, and make a positive impact on the places we visit.

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13 BEST Day Trips From York, England

From exploring the yorkshire dales to a day out at castle howard, these are the best day trips from york perfect for the whole family..

York is one of our favourite cities in Great Britain, and it’s perfect for a weekend away.

Whether it’s shopping along the Shambles, learning about York’s history (which usually involves eating a lot of chocolate), or discovering medieval pubs to cosy up in, it’s one of those cities that you’ll instantly fall in love with.

However, if you’re looking at staying in the city for more than a couple of days, then here are some of the best day trips from York. This is perfect if you want to see some more of Yorkshire (and you should because it’s beautiful).

Yorkshire is known as “God’s Own Country”, so no trip here would be complete without hiking the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Another must is the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, an old fashioned steam engine. This is one activity that’s perfect for the whole family. I’m not going to lie to you, the dad’s always seem to love it more than the kids!

I really can’t recommend York and the surrounding countryside enough though. Hopefully these York day trips will help you plan your trip here. Right, let’s get into it!

Plus, if you’re looking at treating yourself, here are the best Michelin starred restaurants in Yorkshire and the best luxury and boutique hotels in Yorkshire .

13 Amazing Day Trips from York

Located on the Yorkshire Coast, Whitby is such an amazing place to visit in Yorkshire. Check out the Pavilion where you can watch the latest films in the cinema, rock out at a gig, or grab a portion of tasty fish and chips.

Of course you’re going to want to visit the beach at Whitby. Hop on the Whitby Coastal Cruise where you can sail out into the bay and explore the Yorkshire Coastline. If you prefer to keep your feet on land, you can enjoy the open-top bus tour instead.

Fans of Dracula are going to want to try the audio-guided GeoStories where you can follow in the footsteps of Bram Stoker. Stoker was famously wrote the novel in Whitby, so if you’re a fan of the book there’s an extra special connection here.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

Known for its picturesque scenery, Yorkshire Dales National Park is the perfect choice for those who love the great outdoors. Whether you choose to go walking or to visit historical towns and castle ruins, there’s something for everyone.

The Dales are full of natural attractions, like Malham Cove and Aysgarth Falls. Will you be brave enough to tackle the Three Peaks? Take in the landscapes as you take on one peak, or conquer all three.

If you’re more into sightseeing, there’s so many quaint towns to visit. I love checking out the independent shops in Kirkby Stephen, a small market town. The Parish Church has one of two Loki stones in Europe, which depict the Norse God.

Kilburn White Horse

Located in the hills of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park is Britain’s largest white horse. Kilburn White Horse is one of the most famous landmarks and a fun day trip from York.

At a massive 318 feet long and 220 feet high, you can’t miss it! Why not take a walk down the scenic footpath to see the majestic horse up close? Did you know, the best view is from Bagby Road? Take a seat on one of the benches or capture the perfect picture to share on Instagram!

Castle Howard

Castle Howard and gardens is a unique day trip from York. The well preserved house and exquisite gardens are a must-see.

Whilst touring around the house, there are so many unique exhibits and tours to choose from. You can learn about the hidden lives of the women at Castle Howard, hidden objects, or the impact of the war. I would personally recommend visiting the chapel, with its stunning pre-Raphaelite architecture.

Castle Howard is a popular filming location. Can you spot where scenes from Bridgerton and Victoria were filmed? It was even used in the Arctic Monkeys ‘Four Out Of Five’ video!

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

For a fantastic day out, head to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway . This is an old fashioned steam train that runs from Whitby along the Yorkshire coast to Pickering.

Once a popular route, this heritage rail line was brought back to life and reopened showing what the journey would’ve once been like. Each station is a classic station from the early-mid 1900’s. The life of the railway has gone full circle, and it’s now one of the busiest steam trains again in the world!

On the train you can have afternoon tea, have a delicious decadent dinner, meet Santa during the holiday season, or our favourite, solve a murder mystery. This really is one of the best day trips from York that’s for sure!

Visit Leeds , the unofficial capital of Yorkshire, for a fantastic day out. Whether you’re a couple enjoying a date, a family looking for fun or you want to shop ‘till you drop, there’s plenty for everyone in this city.

Head to Tropical World or Meanwood Valley Urban Farm for an animal-packed day with the kids, or check out one of Leeds’ many museums for a quieter day. We love visiting the ancient Egyptian mummies at Leeds City Museum!

Don’t forget to check out the independent food scene – after all, Leeds is known as the foodie capital of the North.

Home of the Bronte sisters, Haworth is a must-visit. With a rich literary history and surrounded by the Moors, there’s so much to do in this picturesque village.

Of course you must visit the Bronte Parsonage Museum and experience how the famous sisters lived as they wrote novels which would stand the test of time. Perhaps you’d prefer to explore Haworth village and park on a short one mile walk through the cobbled streets?

Treat yourself to a delicious afternoon tea at Cobbles and Clay or head to Mrs Beighton’s Sweet Shop to choose from over 500 different varieties of sweets!

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, the charming village of Saltaire has a rich industrial past. Now it’s home to many museums, including the infamous Salts Mill.

Why not hop aboard the Saltaire Trio Boat to see the charming village in all its glory as you sail down the canal? Be sure to look out for Victoria Hall and Roberts Park. Art fans can check out the David Hockney collection at Salts Mill.

For a unique experience visit Interlude Cafe, a 1920s style tea room that specialises in a classic cream tea. Do you put jam or cream first?

The Forbidden Corner

The Forbidden Corner is one of York’s most unique attractions. Located in Tupgill Park, the labyrinth of tunnels and chambers make for a brilliant family day out.

Run through the underground dwellings and explore the stone pathways to see what surprises pop out. There are many things to see, from the Green Man and castle towers. The newest addition is the stained glass windows which have come from Carlton Church.

Don’t forget to take your picnic and enjoy the gardens and outdoors areas. I’ll be munching on fresh donuts from The Potting Shed – yum!

Durham

From museums and parks, to shopping and museums, there’s so much to do in Durham. This city is full of activities for family fun, a romantic date, or a solo adventure.

For some family fun, check out Beamish, the living museum of the north. Here you can travel back in time in this immersive experience. It’s brilliant fun!

Durham is the perfect place for shopaholics. From farmers markets and antiques, to independent boutiques and shopping centres, you’ll find exactly what you need. Pick out a new cushion with your partner or take yourself on a shopping spree.

Knaresborough

With stunning architecture surrounded by cliffs, Knaresborough is top of my list of places to visit in Yorkshire. I just love the feel of the marketplace surrounded by mediaeval streets.

Check out the mediaeval remains of Knaresborough Castle before checking out the independent shops in the traditional marketplace. I love visiting Yorkshire Mixture, where you can choose from 100 jars of traditional sweets.

If you love the great outdoors you’re going to want to visit Mother Shipton’s Cave and the Petrifying Well. The landmark is England’s oldest visitor attraction and has been open since 1630! Check out the mile-long walk along the River Nidd.

Bolton Abbey

There’s so much to see and do at Bolton Abbey making it’s place to visit. From the Priory Church and Ruins and Barden Tower, to the Valley of Desolation and The Money Tree, you’ll be entertained for hours.

Check out the stunning 12th century ruins of the Augustinian Priory before venturing through the riverside landscapes that surround it.

Why not admire the aqueduct or jump across the 60 stepping stones across the river, which were once a crossing point for workers.

Harrogate

Rounding off our list of York day trips is Harrogate , which is a fantastic year-round destination. Discover the Victorian spa town and all it has to offer.

The Turkish Baths are perfect for a romantic getaway. Offering modern treatments with the Victorian Turkish baths decor, this is the ideal location for a relaxing couples activity. Why not finish your evening with a show at one of Harrogate’s many theatres?

Our green-fingered readers are going to love the variety of gardens in Harrogate. Check out the Himalayan Gardens and Sculpture Park where you can discover over 80 sculptures and botanical masterpieces!

There are so many fantastic day trips from York to choose from! Which one of these are at the top of your list? If you have any questions at all you can let us know in the comments below!

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Everything You Need on Your UK Winter Packing List

Packing Guide for a Winter Trip to the UK

Winter in the UK brings a rush of holiday cheer, followed by the quietest months for visiting. You’ll find the coldest weather this season, as well as the least sunlight for your sightseeing. Planning out your packing list is especially important for a winter trip to the UK. Get prepared and stay warm with these winter UK packing tips!

This article contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use, and they help keep my content free – a win-win! For more information, see the affiliate disclosure .

Know before you go

💷 Currency: Great British Pound (£) is used throughout the UK.

🕰️ Time zone: The entire UK is in one time zone, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). From late March to late October, the whole country moves an hour forward to British Summer Time (BST).

🔌 Plugging in electronics: Electric sockets in the UK are unlike those in Europe or the US. If you are visiting from outside the UK, you will likely need this universal travel adaptor .

📱 Using your smartphone: If you want to use your phone data while visiting, the easiest and cheapest solution is to purchase an e-sim for your trip.

🚘 Car rentals: Americans can rent a car in the UK with a valid US driver’s license from any state. I recommend Discover Cars to find the best rental car prices. Driving in the UK is not for the faint of heart, and I recommend checking out my guide to driving in the UK before you set out!

🚊 Train booking: All major UK cities, and many other destinations in between, can be reached by train. Check train routes, ticket prices, and get your tickets directly through Trainline .

When is Winter in the UK anyway? This is how it breaks down:

Winter: December, January, February
Spring: March, April, May
Summer: June, July, August
Autumn: September, October, November

Looking for tips for another season? Check out my Autumn , Spring and Summer packing lists.

What To Expect From Winter in the UK

Christmas season kicks into high gear in the UK right as winter starts in December. Lights are at their peak and holiday events are around every corner. The festive lights usually stay up for the first few weeks of January before slowly making way for the new year’s quietest months.

December is not as busy as the peak summer months, but still brings a lot of crowds to the cities like London, Manchester and Edinburgh . Locals often head into the cities as well to take part in holiday events and celebrate the season.

January and February are ideal for avoiding crowds, though some sights away from the big cities will sometimes shut during this period.

Throughout winter, the sun departs early. Expect sunset by 4pm in southern England and as early as 3pm in Scotland. In December, this makes it easy to take in all the sparkling Christmas light displays , but it can be a little dark and dreary after the holiday decorations come down.

Snow is not common outside the Scottish Highlands region, but it still gets cold enough to justify layering up, even in the south of England. You’ll want to make it easy to add and subtract layers to match your current location. Many museums have coat checks so you can take off your heaviest items and leave them while you enjoy a more climate-controlled visit.

Let’s go over what you need to bring to stay toasty even on chilly winter night walks.

Top 5 Must-Have Items to Pack for a Winter Trip to the UK

These are the top 5 items that will make the biggest difference during your UK winter trip:

A winter coat. A wool coat will do the best job keeping you warm even when a cold wind blows. For a more casual look, a puffer coat with a hood is also a good choice and will provide double service by keeping off the rain. If you have a cute coat you’re dying to bring that might not be warm enough, look at my favorite winter packing hack in the next section below.
Warm and water resistant shoes. Lean into boot season for this trip. You don’t need to go full-hiking style (unless you’re going on a hiking holiday), but you want to pick options that are warm and comfortable for walking. Stick to flats or block heels to avoid slipping on wet or icy streets.
Thermal tops. A warming layer goes a long way to staying comfortable on a cold day. I rarely go for thermal leggings here in England, but consider them if you tend to get cold easily or are spending all of your time in Scotland.
Tights. Ok, I just said I don’t bother with thermal leggings, but do bring tights to layer under dresses or skirts. Leggings can also work for this or as a comfortable option for flight days.
A warm hat. Bring at least one to keep stashed in your bag even if you don’t think you’ll need it. You’ll probably need it.

Winter Packing Hacks

Packing hacks can help you make the most of your winter travel wardrobe. These are a few favorites to help you fit more in and stay organized!

Have a stylish coat that might not keep you as warm as you want? Pick up a slim padded puffer vest to layer underneath. It will keep your core warm and can serve as an afternoon jacket if you get a less chilly day – Get one from Amazon here or from Uniqlo here
Wear your heaviest items to the airport, like your coat and boots, if you’re short on room in your suitcase
Hats and scarves will change up your look easier than packing loads of sweaters – and will take less room in your luggage
Check for laundry services at your lodging so you can pack less clothing
Consider compression packing cubes if you’re tight on space
Soft-side luggage is lighter, meaning more usable packing space in checked bags
Stash a designated laundry bag to separate dirty and clean clothes while you’re traveling

Where To Find Inexpensive and Warm Winter Clothes While Traveling in the UK

There are many opportunities at Christmas markets and boutique shops to find unique and beautiful winter clothes across the UK. However, these are unlikely to be cheap. If you find yourself in need of a quick, inexpensive item, head to Primark. This large shop is comparable to Old Navy in the US, and will likely have whatever you need at a price that won’t cut into your travel budget too much. Primark is a nationwide brand with shops dotted all over.

How To Build A Capsule Wardrobe for Winter Travel in the UK

Travel in the winter means bulkier clothing and more layers. Putting together a capsule wardrobe for your trip will help ensure you don’t wind up with overstuffed luggage and no room for souvenirs.

The further items are from your body, the more you can rewear them. No one will care that you have on the same chunky knit sweater you wore a few days ago. Throw on a different scarf and even your travel companions won’t notice.

Layering is key to a capsule travel wardrobe. You will likely be popping into cozy pubs and heated museums, so you need to be able to adjust your outfits on the fly. If you visit London, heading to some of the Tube lines can feel like a descent into Hades during the winter months. Select clothing that you can pull on and off easily. Choosing items that compliment each other will make it easy to mix and match outfits throughout your trip.

How to Layer a Winter Look in the UK

Creating a layered look doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow this simple method for each day on your itinerary and keep in mind you can rewear items further from your body the most.

Step 1: Base layer – think a thermal shirt, fitted t-shirt, or cami top
Step 2: Add a sweater (jumper) for warmth – chunky knits are great for winter
Step 3: Consider a quilted vest for a casual outing or a blazer for a tailored look
Step 4: Loop on a scarf – blanket style scarves give that extra cozy look and feel (and can be used as a blanket on your flight)
Step 5: Throw on your coat – a wool coat is the warmest, but you’ll see plenty of puffer coats and even teddy bear fabric out and about
Step 6: Grab your hat and gloves – these touches will keep you warm on even the coldest UK days
Step 7: Slide into some sturdy boots that will keep your feet warm and dry

You don’t have to add every layer to every outfit, but this should help you pick out items that can be repurposed for multiple travel outfits.

Everything To Pack for a Winter Trip in the UK

If you run cold, then a long sleeved thermal top will be your best friend to stay toasty. This one comes in several colors and different necklines so it’s easy to pick what works best with your planned outfits.

Thermal leggings will keep you warm, and you can choose them over tights if you prefer.

Warm up your dress and skirt outfits with these snag-resistant tights .

Sweaters (jumpers)

You can make do on a one week trip with as few as two quality sweaters. Your base layers will change out more often, but those are also slimmer to pack. I like this merino wool option from Amazon that would be easy to mix and match with jeans, a skirt, or layer over a dress.

Uniqlo and Gap also have a good selection for sweaters in neutral colors and patterns that are reasonably priced.

Dress or skirt

If you’re heading to the West End for theatre in London, or if you just fancy a fancier look, then don’t be afraid to wear a dress or skirt layered up with tights.

I love the versatility of a wrap dress for travel. This dress from Amazon has a wintry feel and even has pockets!

Channeling more of a Cher from Clueless look? This mini skirt comes in a variety of prints and styles, and would look darling layered over tights.

Denim is your travel friend year-round, and winter in the UK is no exception. Don’t be afraid to rewear them on multiple days. Now, I personally tend toward skinny jeans in the winter because I prefer that look with the various boots I live in this season. If you’re dying for a wide leg jean, I get it, but pair them with fitted boots rather than with flimsy flats. Your feet will thank me for avoiding frostbite.

I love Levi’s , and these are a solid standby with a range of sizes.

Quilted vest

This is my secret weapon for making any outfit warmer in the winter. It can layer over a long-sleeve top and may be enough on its own when the weather isn’t too cold. Choose a slim padded option like this one so that it can layer under your winter coat for those days when the cold wind is really biting.

A scarf often takes less luggage space than a sweater, and can change up your looks when you’re rewearing items. You might want to also leave space to bring back a beautiful scarf from your travels. The Royal Mile in Edinburgh is lined with shops selling wool scarves, and you can often find some lovely scarves and gloves at Christmas markets.

A blanket scarf is super cozy and can be worn several ways.

Or try an infinity scarf for a slouchy cowl neck look.

I love boot season – short boots, tall boots, they all look good and work well in the winter. I recommend staying away from heels unless you are really comfortable in them. Many people underestimate how much walking you will do on a UK trip. Shoes take up a lot of valuable luggage space, so your best option is to choose a few pairs that you can wear consistently.

A Chelsea boot is a comfortable and stylish option that is easy to mix and match with your outfits.

Riding boots are also great in the winter, and these even have a faux fur lining to keep you cozy.

If you buy new boots for your trip, make sure you leave time to break them in before you travel!

Hiking boots (for country walks)

You don’t need to go full REI catalog to visit UK cities in the winter. However, if you plan on taking any walks in the countryside, then you need to plan for mud. City shoes are likely to slip, let in water, or just look trashed after a muddy hike.

These are the boots I wear for hiking , and I have subjected them to a lot of muddy, cold walks. They are waterproof and won’t fall apart after a winter walk.

Good to have, though I tend to go more for fingerless mittens because I never can find gloves that don’t render my phone useless without taking them off. Gloves are commonly sold at Christmas markets, so this is another item you can easily buy once here if you want to have them as a souvenir.

I love these arm warmers to warm up your palms and layer under your sweater.

Winter hats

It really does make a difference to keep you warm while out and about. I have a stack of winter beanie hats that always come along on winter outings.

This one is so cute and the fleece lining will keep the wind from cutting through it.

Coats and rain gear

Annoying to pack, but absolutely necessary. If you’re keeping it minimal, bring one weather-resistant puffer coat and carry it on the plane to save space. I prefer to also have a wool coat to stay warm and stylish. A collapsible travel umbrella can stow in your bag in case of unexpected showers.

This Cole Haan quilted coat with a hood is an excellent all-in-one choice to brave the elements.

This Calvin Klein wool blend coat is a classic look to dress up your outfit. This one has enough wool content to keep you warm without breaking the bank as well.

Stashing this compact windproof umbrella in your day bag will have you prepared if a storm suddenly kicks up.

Speaking of day bags, it’s best to opt for something roomy in winter. Layered clothing works best when you have somewhere to put layers you aren’t currently wearing. I usually go for a crossbody bag, but more often grab a stylish backpack for winter travels. Keep your things safe by choosing something that isn’t easy to slide open and that you can sling around under your arm or to your front in a crowd.

I really like this backpack from PacSafe . It’s super roomy and looks nice while also boasting some smart anti-theft design features.

UK travel luggage

I’ve had my Delsey carry-on luggage for years, and it’s still going strong. If you’re planning to travel with only carry-on luggage, then this is the way to go. It fits a lot in and the front opening section is a great spot for those items you know you’ll need to pull out at security.

If you plan to check a larger bag, I recommend a soft-sided bag like this SwissGear Sion Roller Luggage . Most airlines have weight limits for checked bags and hard-sided bags start off heavier. Choosing a soft-sided bag like this will ensure you can actually use the space without paying surprise overweight luggage fees or doing the last minute shuffle between bags at check-in.

Packing cubes

Compression packing cubes are great for finding extra space in your luggage, especially when you need to squish in bulky items like sweaters.

Packing cubes are also really helpful for separating your clothing items so they’re easier to find. When my daughter was younger I relied on packing cubes to separate her clothing from mine in the same suitcase. When she needed her pajamas, I didn’t have to dig through my stuff to find them.

Jewelry case

I love the flat profile of this jewelry organizer that will fit easily into your purse or carry-on luggage. Remember to not put your valuable jewelry in checked luggage.

Keep the liquids in your carry-on in these easy to fill travel sized containers. I love this kit for how easy it makes it to bring many different types of product in one bag. It also includes useful tools for filling and cleaning the containers.

Electronics

Will your US hair dryer work in the UK? I get it – in the winter, you don’t want to head out with wet hair. If you’re devoted to your hair dryer, make sure you check it for dual voltage before travel. You should see something like “INPUT AC 120V – 240V” on the label. If it only says 120V or 125V, then it is not going to be compatible with the higher voltage used in the UK and you could wind up frying it. Voltage converters can step down the voltage to make it work, but I’ve heard some horror stories when they don’t work correctly.

Most electronics like your phone or e-reader are going to be fine as long as you bring an adapter. For those, I recommend this multi-country adapter that is small and will work across Europe as well as the UK.

Enjoy your trip!

Whether you’re visiting the UK to experience Christmas festivities , or planning a quiet and cozy trip to avoid the crowds, I hope you have a wonderful time.

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Money latest: How to avoid a holiday data roaming charge (while still using the internet)

Our cost of living specialist is back with a money-saving tips for using the internet while abroad. Read all today's personal finance and consumer news - and listen to the latest Ian King Business Podcast below.

Friday 10 May 2024 07:43, UK

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The chancellor is now speaking to Sky News, reacting to the news that the UK has exited a recession.

"It's encouraging that the UK economy is growing faster over the last quarter, not just than France, Germany or Italy, but actually faster than the United States.

"But I think what's more encouraging is the longer-term data that we are now seeing about the economy," he says.

He then praises the government's handling of the economy.

"I think that for families who've been having a really tough time, this is an indication that difficult decisions that we've taken over recent years are beginning to pay off and we need to stick with them."

He references the Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey's comments made yesterday about the rate of inflation being expected to fall to 2% in the coming months.

"So we're seeing that inflation is falling faster and I think people recognise it's been a very, very challenging period."

He's then asked whether the UK can compete with the US's economy in the coming years.

Mr Hunt says he wants the UK to become "the new silicon valley" as a route into the tech sector.

"Tech is the sector that is growing the fastest and will continue to grow the fastest," he says.

Finally, he's asked when National Insurance will finally be completely abolished.

"We haven't set a date... we'll only do it when it's affordable and when we can do so without impacting on public services."

Our economics editor Ed Conway is offering some reaction to the news that the UK is no longer in recession.

"These are great numbers," he says.

"Certainly in the context of things, they are close to what we would normally historically call trend growth - a good rate of growth - and that's going back a long time.

"They're better than expected... this is definitely some good news."

The UK economy is no longer in recession, according to official figures.

Gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.6% between January and March, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.

A recession, which is defined as two consecutive three-month periods where the economy contracts, was declared in February.

It came after the ONS said that GDP, a major measure of economic growth, shrank 0.3% between October and December. It followed a contraction of 0.1% in the three months from July to September.

The slump was blamed on reduced consumer spending power amid high inflation and energy bills. Months of wet weather also contributed to keeping shoppers at home, commentators said.

We've also received some reaction from the government.

"It has been a difficult few years, but today's growth figures are proof that the economy is returning to full health for the first time since the pandemic," Chancellor Jeremy Hunt said in a statement

By Megan Harwood-Baynes , cost of living specialist

When my plane touched down on the runway of Manila airport, I was welcomed to the country with a text. Coming from Sky Mobile, the message informed me that using my phone abroad would incur hefty charges - including £2.16 for every megabyte (MB) of data I used.

One MB is equivalent to a short WhatsApp voice note message, and given my average monthly data allowance is 20GB (20,000MB), I would be quickly bankrupted if I continued to use my phone as normal. And while I love switching off from work while I am away, for me, the internet is as much a holiday essential as toothpaste and a hairbrush.

From the ability to check Google Maps when out and about, or do a quick search to check I am not being scammed, it is now something I always factor into my holiday budget.

Welcome to the world of eSims

An eSim is an industry-standard digital SIM card that allows you to activate a mobile plan on your phone without the need to install a physical SIM into your phone.

TLDR - it means you can activate a short, temporary internet plan while on holiday for a fraction of the price it would cost you through your network provider.

I used an app called Global Yo (other providers are available, but this is the one I used), which has 24-hour plans from as little as 99c (71p) for 1GB.

Once downloaded from the App Store, you can scroll through the list of countries to select your destination. Select the plan you want - while in the Philippines, I paid around £7 for a weekly plan that would give me 5GB of data. It is cheaper to do it day by day, but that also means you have to remember to top up each morning.

Once purchased, you are sent a QR code to scan - this will help you install the eSIM. The process varies by phone, but once installed, you go into the SIM manager settings on your phone. You can then toggle the settings so your calls and texts come via SIM 1 (your primary phone number), but mobile data uses the eSIM. This means you won't miss any vital text messages that come through to your phone number while on holiday.

The downsides

Not every network, or mobile phone, supports eSIMS, so check with your network provider before you shell out, and make sure your phone is unlocked. My sister, who lives in Hong Kong, wasn't able to install the eSIM on her phone but only realised this after paying £7.99 for a week's worth of data.

We also had some difficulty installing it on my mum's iPhone, but that could be because we are all Android users.

You also have to be connected to WiFi /the internet to install the eSIM in the first place, so make sure you do it while at your hotel in the morning. A few times while I was paying each day I would forget this, head out and be without internet for the day.

This wasn't exactly a hardship, but did mean I couldn't share with my Instagram followers what a great time I was having.

It can be hard to balance eating well without spending a lot.

In this series, we try to find the healthiest options in the supermarket for the best value - and have enlisted the help of Sunna Van Kampen , founder of Tonic Health, who went viral on social media for reviewing food in the search of healthier choices.

In this series we don't try to find the outright healthiest option, but help you get better nutritional value for as little money as possible.

Today we're looking at chocolate - and why, before sugar and dairy is added, it's a superfood, in Sunna's view.

A superfood is anything with a very high "nutritional density" - or lots of nutrients for few calories.

Superfoods need a high concentration of antioxidants - molecules which neutralise unstable molecules that can harm your cells.

You can get antioxidants by purchasing expensive "greens" powders, but Sunna says plenty of supermarket options can be classified as "superfood".

"Chocolate is not unhealthy, it is actually a superfood - it's the sugar we added to it that is the problem," he says.

"Chocolate in the supermarkets tends to come in at only £27.50/kg, which is almost half the price of your cheapest greens powder."

Sunna points out that cacao, from which chocolate is made, is in its own right a superfood and has more antioxidants than blueberries, acai berries and cranberries - well-known superfoods.

"Cacao actually has more than 40x the antioxidants of blueberries in its raw form," he says.

But, as he says, the added sugar is where the problems come in.

Sunna's guide to buying chocolate

Sunna recommends picking chocolate that contains a high proportion of cocoa solids - which brings down the sugar content.

Here's how the different kinds of chocolate stack up:

Milk – 25% cocoa solids, 54g of sugar per 100g.
Dark – 47% cocoa solids, 49g of sugar per 100g.
70% dark - 70% cocoa solids, 29g of sugar per 100g
85% dark - 85% cocoa solids, 15g of sugar per 100g
90% dark - 90% cocoa solids, 7g of sugar per 100g

"A typical milk chocolate only contains 25% cacao solids, and the first two ingredients are actually milk and sugar," Sunna says.

"For chocolate to be a superfood, it has to be dark chocolate - at a minimum of 70% dark ideally."

A couple of pieces after dinner each night means you'll be consuming 200g of superfood chocolate a week for £5.50.

"If you're a milk chocolate fan, don't fret," Sunna says. "It is possible to retrain your taste buds in just 10 days to get the superfood benefits of 70% and above."

That might sound easier said than done, but Sunna says the trick is to start with the lower percentages and work your way up to the higher ones.

"Get to a level you are comfortable with and then make sure you have a piece of chocolate every night for 10 days straight," he says.

"The more you train the taste buds, the less sugar you consume."

The switch from milk chocolate to 70% dark will save you 2.6kg of sugar a year, while working your way up to 90% will save you more than 4.8kg of sugar a year (assuming 200g consumption per week).

"Small chocolate changes - and a bit of work to train your tastebuds - can lead to huge sugar savings that are worth it not just for the reduction in sugar, but also the increase in antioxidants," Sunna concludes.

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UK weather: Saturday expected to be hottest day of the year with highs of 26C

8 May 2024, 17:00

The sun has finally arrived for much of the UK!

By Alice Dear

The UK is finally set to experience some hot weather, clear skies and sunshine this week before the hottest day of the year arrives this weekend.

Listen to this article

After weeks of rain, winds and relentlessly cloudy skies, the UK is expected to see some major improvements this week and over the weekend, with Saturday expected to be the hottest day of the year so far.

According to the Met Office's forecast, on Saturday 11th May, the South of England could see highs of up to 26C, with the rest of the UK also expected to be treated to settled conditions.

The hottest day of the year so far was recorded last Thursday in Santon Downham in Suffolk, with the mercury hitting 23.4C at the time of recording - but that is expected to be blown out of the water by the time next week begins.

Listen on Global Player, the official Heart App: MAFS Podcast Sit With Us

Over the course of this week, a high pressuring being pushed from the north will build temperatures over week before the hottest days arrive over the weekend.

The UK will finally experience some sunny weather this weekend, with highs of 26C expected in the South of England

"High pressure is forecast to dominate the UK for the rest of the week and into the weekend," Met Office meteorologist Amy Bokota said: "High pressure brings dry and settled weather and with warm air sat over the UK this will give some pleasant warm temperatures. There is good confidence that high pressure will last until the weekend."

She added: "Temperatures are expecting to build over the next few days, with a likely peak of Saturday."

READ MORE Will there be a UK heatwave in May? Met Office respond to reports
READ MORE Can you walk your dog in a heatwave and what are symptoms of heatstroke?
READ MORE Seven tips to keep cool at night without a fan during the heatwave

It isn't just the South of England that will see warm weather this week and into the weekend, with Glasgow forecast to see a sunny Saturday with 22C temperatures.

High pressure will dominate for many this week, bringing more settled weather than of late 🌥️ Temperatures will also rise, and by Saturday we could see a high of around 26 °C in the southeast, with several places reaching around 21 degrees further north too 🌡️📈 pic.twitter.com/DvXdA23Qwj — Met Office (@metoffice) May 7, 2024

The Northern parts of the UK, however, won't be lucky enough to share this weather, with the moving high pressure expected to cause "prolonged periods of rainfall" across Northern Ireland and North Scotland.

While many across the UK will be excited to finally see the Spring weather improve, it sadly will not last for long with the Met Office's long-range forecast predicting this Sunday "likely to be the last widely dry and fine day for a while."

Make sure you enjoy the sunny weather this weekend while it lasts!

They explained: "After Sunday, the weather is expected to switch back to become changeable across the country, with further spells of rain and showers expected.

"Rainfall amounts could be above average in most areas. It is also possible that rain will be heavy at times, and any showers could turn thundery. Temperatures are also expected to fall closer to average for May."

READ MORE What should I do if I see a dog locked in a hot car?

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UK weather: Met Office warns of heavy rain and thunderstorms

Downpours may cause flooding and travel disruption across much of the country on bank holiday Monday

Bank holiday plans for many could be ruined after forecasters warned thunderstorms and heavy downpours could cause flooding and travel disruption across the UK.

The Met Office issued yellow weather warnings for parts of central and southern Scotland , Wales and parts of England on Monday, warning that spray and sudden flooding could create difficult driving conditions.

The Met Office added there was a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly.

Forecasters said there was a small chance of fast-flowing or deep flood water causing danger to life, while power cuts were also possible and lightning strikes could damage buildings.

Warnings covering part of Scotland, northern and central England , Wales, London, the south-east and part of south-west England are in force until 9pm on Monday.

Later in the week the weather is expected to become more settled and temperatures will climb towards the weekend, possibly reaching as high as 23C or 24C in the south of England by Friday into Saturday and the high teens in Scotland.

Met Office forecaster Craig Snell said: “On Tuesday much of the UK should be dry with a mixture of cloud and sunshine, though probably cloudiest across Scotland.

“Going beyond Tuesday there will be much drier weather for much of the UK and it improves apart from the very far north and Northern Ireland.

“Away from those areas it is generally a dry picture going towards the weekend and on Friday into Saturday we are likely to see temperatures climb probably to 23C or 24C in the south.

“There will be quite warm temperatures for much of the UK, above where they should be for the time of year.

“It will not be wall-to-wall sunshine but the weather will be much more settled.”

Last Thursday, heavy thunderstorms hit southern England and Wales . Forecasters said the thunderstorms could pave the way for the hottest day of the year so far in Britain but this did not come to pass.

The first half of April was warm but that was followed by a chillier, wetter fortnight to see out the month. There was an average of 99mm of rainfall by 28 April, which is 27% higher than usual for the month. Last Wednesday was the warmest day of 2024 so far, with a peak of 22.1C in Santon Downham in Suffolk.

No warnings for the rest of the week have been put in place by the Met Office as temperatures are expected to pick up.

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9 brrrilliant winter day trips from London

9 cool winter day trips from London

1. For frustrated commuters

2. For the fuzzy-headed

3. For dedicated drinkers

4. For the always-peckish

5. For the bold and the brave

6. For Dry January conquerors

7. For burnt out art lovers

8. For crowd haters

9. For washing-up avoiders

10 wonderful winter day trips from London

CANTERBURY, KENT

CASTLE COMBE, COTSWOLDS

YORK, YORKSHIRE

BRUTON, SOMERSET

RYE, EAST SUSSEX

BATH, SOMERSET

WINCHESTER, HAMPSHIRE

STRATFORD, WARWICKSHIRE

MARGATE, KENT

OXFORD, OXFORDSHIRE

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Best places to visit in the UK in winter

Bannau Brycheiniog ( formally known as the Brecon Beacons )

FAQs – Visiting the UK in winter

If you’re planning a trip to the UK in winter add these experiences to your bucket list.

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Best Day Trips from London in Winter (Cities and Castles!)

Best Day Trips from London in Winter

Hever Castle

Windsor Castle

Harry Potter Warner Bros

Stonehenge

Leeds Castle

Canterbury

Stratford on Avon

Highclere Castle

Bicester Village

Hampton Court Palace

Packing list for London winter day trips

Last tips for taking a wintery London day trip

Claire Martin

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16 Best Places to Visit in Winter in the UK

1. Edinburgh, Scotland

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