city breaks

British Attractions in the Winter

As the nights grow longer and the cold weather begins to draw in, you might be tempted to bolt the doors, stoke the fire, and settle down indoors for the winter. However, there are many top attractions around Great Britain that burst into activity over the winter months – making this the perfect time to get out and about, and enjoy a British weekend break.

Historic Sites

Institutions such as the National Trust often come to life in the Winter, with theatrical events, markets and performers of all varieties. Anyone with a keen interest in the culinary arts should consider a trip to the stately Hampton Court. Food historian Annie Gray offers a series of talks, charting the development of fine dining throughout the ages. From the many traditions that surround Christmas dinner, to the curious gastronomic experiments of the Victorians! Nothing is left out, and the evening culminates in a lavish, gourmet banquet.

Alternatively, visit Stratford-Upon-Avon, for a candlelit Shakespeare Tour around the bard’s hometown. With performances of the playwright’s best-loved works taking place all around the town, it’s sure to be a colourful evening of mince pies, minstrels and mirth!

At Kenilworth Castle, visitors will be treated to a ‘Birds of Prey Festival’ – hawks, falcons and buzzards will all be in attendance, for an evening of fine dining, as you learn about the fascinating royal heritage of these noble birds. Meanwhile, up north in Cumbria, the 13th century Muncaster Castle is the scene for a magical Victorian festival – take the candlelit tour around this breathtaking building, or settle down in front of a roaring log fire, with a glass of mulled wine!

What we recommend for Winter 2012!

Visit Stratford and see the Olympic Site Early

The 2012 London Olympics will be one of the most anticipated and busiest events of 2012, but is of course a must see for much of the nation. There has been much controversy over the allocation of tickets and if you are not a lucky ticket holder, we have a solution. Avoid the crowds by taking an early visit to the Olympic site in Stratford East London, and take in all the grandeur of the venue without the hustle and bustle. Adjacent to the site is the newly built Westfield shopping centre, which has a retail space of 1,883,770 metres. With 300 stores, 70 restaurants, a cinema and a bowling alley it will provide a visit to Stratford will provide a fantastic day out.

Science Museum- Camp at the Science Museum

We love it when you can combine education and a good time, and that is exactly what you get with a trip to the Science Museum in London. This unique event gives visitors the chance to camp in the museum overnight, and enjoy an evening of Science related extravaganza. Excited children (both big and small) will enjoy hands on workshops, the chance to see a 3d film and the unforgettable experience of sleeping next to the exhibits. Visit the Science Museum for further details. If you don't fancy spending the night next to the attractions visit our site for Hotels in London.

Visit Your Local Beach this winter!

The beach is not only for the summer, and can be just as glorious in the winter chill. The major benefit of visiting your beach in the winter will be the reduced crowds, giving you complete freedom to explore and play. We recommend taking the dog for a walk along the coast and giving them the chance to enjoy the open space, and maybe a quick dip. The British winter also provides fantastic conditions for water sports, making for bigger waves and more wind for the surfers out there. But be warned the water will be slightly colder!

See for yourself!

So, there’s an overview of just some of the things worth seeing in Britain over the winter months. From Shakespearean performances to tap dancing Turkeys, and more mulled wine than you can shake a sprig of mistletoe at! There really is no better season to get out and about, and visit some Great British attractions.