Making the most of Winter in the UK
Snowdonia
Boasting the highest mountain in England and Wales at 3,560ft, Snowdon is a great adventure and quite an achievement if you can scale the summit on foot. This hike is unique in that a train can also take you to the top making this a fantastic activity for people of all abilities. Within Snowdonia there are over 200 activity providers and more than 100 attractions so whether you want to escape for a weekend or an extended trip there is everything to keep a family entertained. Be sure to wrap up warm in layers and take sunscreen as it can be bright, even in Winter.
Click here to go to Snowdonia Tourism website
Bumble through the Lake District
Busy communities mixed with complete tranquility surrounded by hills and lakes that will take the breath of even a seasoned traveler. Now a World Heritage Site, the Lake District has walks and hikes suitable for the whole family with many places accessible by car. Push yourself to the limit or bumble through the hills taking in all the wonders. Well broken in footwear and extra waterproofs are essential and, providing you dress for the occasion, there is no reason you can’t enjoy this place even in snow and rain. Have you ever sat by the side of a lake and listened to the rain hitting the water? Or watched as the birds dart around preparing their nests for the impending frost?
Click here to go to Lake District National Park website
Pen-Y-Fan
Just over an hour from Purple Turtle HQ and a bucket list must do. The walk will take you across three mountains; Pen-Y-Fan is 886m followed by Corn Du at 873m and finally Cribyn at 795m. A hike that promises an opportunity for reflection at the top as you soak in the Black Mountains. With a clear path to the summit of Pen-Y-Fan this can be undertaken by even the most inexperienced walker, however exercise caution as the conditions can change quickly and all too often mountain rescue are called for people who underestimate the weather.
Click here to go to The National Trust website
Skiing in Scotland
Scotland boasts five ski resorts offering some of the best slopes in the UK, set in the highlands surrounded by Aberdeenshire scenery. There are fully qualified coaches offering tailored sessions to beginners and professionals alike meaning the whole family can get involved. To get around in the snow don’t forget your poles and grippers together with extra fleecy layers and hats to combat the icy winds.
Click here to go to Visit Scotland site
Go Glamping
Camping is a firm favourite with many Britons however during the Winter months it can be a bit much particularly with wet fields and cold winds ripping through the tree lines. There is a solution of course and that is the modern ‘glamping’ pods that seem to be popping up all over – from the Forest of Dean to the West of Wales to the Lochs of Scotland. Glamping is certainly better suited for winter than the trusty tent and for one you will be toasty warm without sleeping in boggy fields. Make the most of the dark nights with scented candles to have on the porch of your pod to add a romantic touch to your break.
Click here to go to Go Glamping
Christmas Markets
Personally Christmas Markets are a must visit attraction in the Winter. Halloween has passed and the nights are getting darker and colder but the spirit of Christmas starts to creep in. Every year these markets seem to get bigger and brighter and manage to lift the spirits quicker. From Bath to Birmingham and London to Leeds these markets vary from German inspired to traditional Georgian backdrops with carollers, musicians and seasonal food to warm the soul. Wrap up snug and be safe in busy crowds with concealed money pouches, whilst not very festive, big crowds do unfortunately attract pickpockets.
Click here to go to Wanderlust Travel
Cornish Coastal Walks
A brisk walk taking in the sea air has to be one of the best ways to keep the winter blues at bay. Cornwall has some of the most beautiful coastal walks that are just as enjoyable when the colder weather creeps in. Don’t forget your walking poles to help on the slippy paths and bridleways and take a woolly hat to keep the wind from your ears.
Click here to go to The National Trust website
Welsh Waterfalls
There is something magical about waterfalls – particularly in the winter when they can create some amazing sculptures. For the tallest waterfall at 80m head to Pistyll Rhaeadr in Powys, it rarely freezes and is just a short walk from the car park, although for those who enjoy a stroll you can walk to the top in 20 minutes. If you would prefer to enjoy more than one waterfall at once why not head between the villages of Pontneddfechan and Ystradfellte in the Fforest Fawr Geopark which has that many it is aptly named Waterfall Country. Don’t forget your walking shoes to ensure plenty of grip on the sometimes slippery rocks and maybe waterproofs – Wales is notoriously wet!
Click here to go to Visit Wales