Off the Beaten Path: Secret UK Winter Destinations to Visit Now
GUEST POST.
Image Photo by Donna Elliot on Unsplash
Winter provides a great opportunity to enjoy a little bit of time away with the family. Whether you’re going for a long weekend, or just a day trip to a nearby attraction, the time can be used to refresh yourself after a hectic Christmas period.
If you’re planning on a road trip, it’s usually a good idea to check that your car is in good working order before setting out. For minimal hassle, you can book an MOT online, so that you know that your car is legally roadworthy before setting out. If it’s due during winter anyway, this might make even more sense.
Hawes, Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales National Park is stunningly beautiful throughout the year – but it’s particularly captivating during winter. There are a number of things to do in this part of the country, but hikers will find it particularly appealing. The famous ‘Three Peaks’ of Pen-y-ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside are waiting to be conquered – and certain landmarks, like Hardew Force, really come to life during winter. When the temperature really drops, the largest single-drop waterfall in the UK can actually freeze solid.
The picturesque little market town of Hawes is a great staging ground for your adventures in the Dales. It’s within a short drive of Wensleydale Creamery, where you’ll be able to enjoy a fantastic cheese-tasting experience.
Mousehole, Cornwall
Cornwall is another part of the UK that’s known for rolling, untamed countryside. Among the lesser-known draws for tourists is Mousehole. It’s a tiny fishing village nestled just a short drive from Land’s End. The source of the village’s name is a subject of some dispute among locals. Some say it comes from a Cornish term; others say that it’s a reference to the tiny little harbour, or to a nearby mountain cave.
What makes the village especially attractive during winter are the fantastic harbour lights, which have been an annual Christmas tradition since 1963. There are a number of excellent restaurants and gastropubs nearby, where you’ll be able to enjoy amazing Cornish seafood. The crowds tend to be thinner during winter, too – which makes it easier to enjoy some of the country’s most inspiring coastline.
Plockton, Scottish Highlands
A trip to the Scottish Highlands will appeal for a wide range of reasons. But Plockton, on the banks of Loch Carron, offers a kind of natural beauty that’s perfect for those looking for an escape during winter. You can enjoy long hikes along the shore, enjoy the local cuisine at the Plockton Inn, and visit the nearby castle, Eilean Donan, which provides stunning views at this time of year. If you’re planning a longer tour of the Highlands, this is a stop not to be missed!
Bibury, Cotswolds
Situated in the River Coln, Bibury in Gloucestershire is a pretty village with lots to explore. From Bibury Roman Villa to the Church of St Mary there's plenty of history to uncover, as well as taking a step back in time on a visit to the row of tenanted 17th-century weavers' cottages owned by the National Trust at Arlington Row – which were originally built in the 14th century. Or why not simply take a stroll alongisde the river with it's beautiful views? Don't forget to take your camera whilst on a trip to this village, as Bibury makes a picture perfect setting for some great memories to keep.
Brecon Beacons, Wales
If you enjoy crisp walks in the winter air followed by warming up by a roaring fire in the friendly pub then the Brecon Beacons is the destination for you. With more than 1,200 miles of public rights of way in the National Park, you will not be short of routes to explore, plus there are lots of activities – from cycling and watersports to caving and rockclimbing, to name a few – should you wish to get even more active. There's also plenty of high street shops and cafes for when you want a slightly slower pace on your trip.
This is a guest post and therefore these are not necessarily the views of Index Digital.
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