12 Dreamy Winter Destinations in the UK That Feel Straight Out of a Storybook

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Whether you’re looking for picturesque landscapes to explore, somewhere to try winter sports, cozy cafes serving hot chocolate, or a city break jam-packed with Christmas markets, the best winter destinations in the UK have what you’re looking for. In fact, there are so many exciting places to visit that deciding where to go is challenging.

However, some places stand out more than others. Below, you’ll find 12 of the best places in the UK for a winter vacation. The selected destinations are renowned for having many things to see and do. As someone born and raised in the UK, I’m ideally placed to show you the best places to visit.

London

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In London, you’ll never struggle to find something to do, especially in the winter. England’s capital transforms into a winter wonderland brimming with exciting attractions and activities. London is one of the best winter destinations in the UK because it offers something for everyone, no matter what you like to do.

Festive travelers can spend the winter exploring the Christmas markets, shopping enthusiasts can shop until they drop in Harrods, history lovers can visit iconic attractions like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, and families with children can have fun getting trapped in London Dungeons.

Meanwhile, big foodies will quickly fall in love with the sights, smells, and tastes of London’s many food markets. I highly recommend visiting Camden and Borough markets.

York

Head to York, one of Europe’s most spectacular medieval cities, for a more magical winter vacation in the United Kingdom. York is a marvelous place to visit year-round, but the city is especially impressive in winter when the festive season descends and a thick morning fog blankets the city. You’ll never struggle to find something to do in York, so be prepared to do plenty of walking.

When you’re not exploring the quaint shops down the Shambles, a 14th-century narrow street lined with timber-framed buildings, admire the beauty of the 1st-century Minster, learn about the Vikings in the Jorvik Viking Centre, and walk the city walls. After a busy day of exploring, enjoy a hot chocolate in a cozy cafe or sip mulled wine at the Christmas markets.

Edinburgh

Another magical winter destination in the UK is Edinburgh, Scotland’s breathtaking capital. Edinburgh is famed worldwide for its medieval cobblestone streets, picturesque scenery, and historical landmarks. Edinburgh is well-versed in winter weather, so there is plenty to do, even when the weather is unfavorable. You should start with a crisp morning walk up Arthur’s Seat.

Arthur’s Seat offers impressive city views, so don’t forget your camera. After, explore the medieval Old Town before crossing the North Bridge to the New Town. Must-visit attractions during your visit include the Grassmarket, Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Princes Street Gardens, and Calton Hill. You can also visit the annual Christmas market near Scott Monument between late November and December.

Glencoe

Glencoe, a village in Western Scotland, is one of the best winter destinations in the UK for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities and enjoy time exploring the great outdoors. This part of Scotland is best known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.

You can expect beautiful lakes, rugged mountains, woodland trails, deep valleys, and diverse wildlife. You’ll likely spend most of your time in Glencoe hiking, but skiing and snowboarding are also popular, especially in winter when the ground is covered in frost and snow. However, there are several attractions to visit, too, such as the Glencoe Folk Museum, Glencoe Mountain Resort, and the Glencoe Visitor Centre.

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond sits in the heart of the Trossachs National Park, surrounded by an awe-inspiring landscape featuring snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and rolling hills. Its proximity to Glasgow (a 30-minute drive) makes it one of the easiest-to-reach winter destinations in the UK. There is something extra special about Loch Lomond in winter.

It may be cold, but the serene winter landscape offers the perfect getaway from the daily grind. Like in Glencoe, you’ll spend most of your time at Loch Lomond exploring the great outdoors. Enjoy snowy morning walks around the loch. Other popular things to do include flying in a seaplane, spotting winter wildlife, and hunting the Northern Lights.

Portstewart

Portstewart is one of the best winter destinations in the UK for travelers who’ve always dreamt of exploring Northern Ireland’s iconic tourist attractions. This beautiful coastal town is an excellent place to base yourself for visiting famous places like the Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges, Carrick-A-Rede, and Benone Beach.

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Meanwhile, the town is a fantastic place to enjoy Northern Ireland’s scenic coastline. You can walk along the seafront admiring the spectacular coastal views, sit in a cozy cafe with a mug of hot chocolate, play a round of golf at the local golf club, and brave one of the seawater swimming pools. However, they might be too cold in the winter months.

Hay-on-Wye

If you’re looking for a lesser-visited place to visit, look no further than Hay-on-Wye, one of my all-time favorite places to spend a winter weekend in the UK. This hidden gem is a small market town in Powys, Wales, best known for its historic architecture and quaint bookstores. Its lush surroundings also add to the town’s allure.

Hay-on-Wye comes to life in winter with winter-themed events, vibrant Christmas decorations, and exciting markets. The Hay-on-Wye Christmas Fayre is a particular favorite. At this market, you can peruse market stalls run by local producers and traders, eat your body weight in delicious food, and listen to live performances. Other notable attractions in Hay-on-Wye include Hay Castle, Richard Booth’s Bookshop Cinema, and the River Wye.

Snowdonia National Park

You might call me biased because I live near Snowdonia National Park, but I firmly believe it’s the best winter destination in the UK. In Snowdonia, Wales’s largest national park, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy a winter escape. This includes traditional Welsh towns and villages, glacial lakes, and iconic mountains, such as Mount Snowdon, the tallest mountain in Wales.

Snowdonia is vast, so there are many exciting places to explore. However, some areas are more popular than others. Therefore, make sure you don’t miss Llanberis, Betws-y-Coed, Llyn Padarn, and, of course, Mount Snowdon. You could also visit Conwy, a fascinating medieval town considered the gateway to Snowdonia National Park.

Norwich

Norwich, a city in England’s Norfolk County, might be one of the United Kingdom’s most underrated winter destinations. Few people visiting the UK for the first time consider Norwich a potential destination, which is a shame because the city has much to offer. For starters, the city is home to a collection of magnificent buildings, including a medieval cathedral.

Second, the city is a hive for activity, especially in winter when the Christmas markets are in full flow. Finally, Norwich offers convenient access to the breathtaking Norfolk Coast. For example, Blakeney Point Nature Reserve is only a 40-minute drive from Norwich. You’ll find a large seal colony here in the winter. Notable attractions in Norwich include Norwich Castle, Norwich Market, and Elm Hill.

Belfast

If you’re planning a winter visit in the UK around Christmas and New Year, I recommend visiting Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. Admittedly, Belfast is a fabulous place to visit any time of the year, but it truly comes to life in winter when the Christmas spirit descends on the city.

In winter, you can expect festive Christmas markets, exciting winter events, and epic New Year celebrations. Better yet, Belfast is also home to several famous attractions, such as Titanic Belfast and St. George’s Market. Must-visit attractions and events in winter include the Christmas lights switch on, the Belfast Christmas Market, the New Year’s Eve fireworks, and various live music performances.

Cardiff

If you want to celebrate Christmas in style this year, head to Cardiff, the capital of Wales. Easily one of the UK’s best winter destinations, Cardiff is an exhilarating place to be at Christmas. At every corner of the city, you’ll find festive fun and winter wonderlands where the whole family can have fun.

I’ve been to Cardiff multiple times in the winter, and it never disappoints. The Christmas markets are brimming with unique gifts, delicious food, and mesmerizing decorations while entertaining events pop up across the capital. Of course, the city is also home to many exciting attractions, including Cardiff Castle, National Museum Cardiff, and Bute Park. What’s not to like?

Broadway

Broadway, one of the Cotswolds prettiest villages, is the perfect winter destination in the UK for travelers who dream of spending their vacation admiring traditional English cottages, exploring the breathtaking countryside along the Cotswold Way, and tucking into a roast dinner in a cozy English pub. If you’re lucky, the village might even be blanketed in snow during your visit.

I don’t know about you, but that sounds perfect. Besides the village’s apparent beauty, there is much to see and do in Broadway in winter. You shouldn’t miss the Christmas Fair, Broadway Tower, Broadway Museum & Art Gallery, and National Trust – Snowshill Manor and Garden. Families with children should also stop by Broadway Park.