There’s something magical about winter get‑aways. The air’s crisp, the streets are quieter, pubs are warm, lights twinkle in unexpected places, and warm dishes hit differently. If you’re after a short trip this winter, whether it’s a change of scene for a few days, or just a weekend reset, we’ve got some favourite destinations, plus ideas and tips for making the most of them.
Why Winter Short Trips Are Special
The crowds thin out. Whether it’s coastal towns or busy cities, you get more breathing space, fewer queues, and often more charm. Things feel more intimate too, like roaring fires, hot chocolate (or mulled wine), and candlelit dinners. Lower prices can mean better value, whether that’s on travel, places to stay, or eating out.
While seasonal events like Christmas markets, winter walks, light trails and festivals give the season its own kind of adventure. And the outdoors have their own charm. Silver skies, dew-covered evergreens, and the beauty of snow-covered landscapes simply can’t be beaten by the most glorious summer.
Top UK Short Trip Ideas
Here are places that tend to shine in winter — for the views, for the atmosphere, things to do, and that feeling of having escaped routine for a few days.
- Edinburgh – Historic streets, festive lights, warm whisky bars, and just enough bustle to keep it lively without feeling crowded. Why not catch a 6 Nations rugby 2026 game while you’re there? When Murrayfield host rivals England, the atmosphere is palpable.
- Loch Lomond & The Trossachs – Quiet lochs, snow-dusted hills, and peaceful walking trails. Ideal if you want to clear your head and get outside.
- The Cotswolds – Chocolate-box villages, roaring pub fires, and slow mornings browsing indie shops. Broadway and Stow-on-the-Wold are especially lovely.
- The Lake District – Misty lakes, dramatic hills, and cosy inns. Ambleside or Keswick make great bases for walking and eating well.
- York – Compact, atmospheric, and full of character. The medieval walls, local markets, and proper old pubs make it perfect for a two-night escape. The Christmas markets make it extra special.
- Isle of Skye – Rugged, remote, and completely cinematic. Wild weather only adds to the mood (just pack your waterproofs).
- Norfolk coast – Thousands of grey seal pups are born at Blakeney Point, and you can watch them from the dunes with a flask of tea. Add in seaside spots like Cromer and Cley-next-the-Sea and it’s a quiet, chilly dream.
Ideas for a Winter Weekend Abroad (Still Short, Still Sweet)
If you fancy hopping across the Channel or taking a short flight, here are a few places that feel like a proper break — even if you’re only there two or three nights.
- Copenhagen, Denmark – Twinkling lights, Christmas markets, and the kind of cafés you’ll want to spend hours in. Wrap up warm and wander Nyhavn with a hot drink in hand.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands – Peaceful canals, crisp air, and world-class museums. Fewer crowds than summer, but just as much charm.
- Reykjavík, Iceland – A proper winter escape. Go for the Northern Lights, geothermal pools, and moody, unforgettable landscapes. Even in a long weekend, you’ll feel like you’ve been away for ages.
- Vienna, Austria – Elegant, festive, and surprisingly cosy. Think classical music, steaming mugs of punch, and grand cafés you’ll never want to leave.
- Bruges, Belgium – Like stepping into a snow globe. Cobbled streets, fairy lights, canals, and more chocolate and waffles than is probably sensible.
- Zermatt, Switzerland (or other Alpine villages) – Head just before or after peak ski season for snowy views, mountain walks, and peaceful evenings by the fire. All without the lift pass chaos
What to Pack / Plan For
To make sure your short winter break feels restorative instead of stressful:
- Layer up: warm base layers, waterproof outerwear, good boots. The weather can change fast.
- Flexibility: weather may disrupt plans (fog, snow, early dark) so keep your schedule light.
- Book the cosy stuff ahead: a good hotel with heating/fireplace; one or two special meals; maybe a spa or warm‑up spot (café, museum).
- Travel smart: earlier sunsets, so plan daylight activities accordingly. Use afternoons for exploring, evenings for rest.
- Lean into local treats: cheese, beer, locally made chocolates make winter feel magical.
Getaway This Winter
Winter doesn’t mean that travel plans have to stop. Sometimes the best memories come from those un‑rushed, frost‑edged days away. Whether you stay in the UK or go a bit further, just a short change of place often resets more than we expect. Life doesn’t have to stop just because it’s winter.