As we’re in the heart of the winter season and spring is still months away, it’s best not to let the winter blues grip you and make to most out of choice of winter retreats the country offers. With cosy cabins and luxury hotels about, there’s no reason why we can’t enjoy ourselves during this cold time of the year.

This guide advises on the best winter staycation locations!

Escape the winter cities
If you want a break away from the busy cities, then seek refuge in on of many amazing forests in the UK.

Hide away from the busy built up cities and enjoy the warmth of log burner in a wood cabin. Stroll through beautiful forest and enjoy a winter meal without sweating in the kitchen. Forest Holidays also offer secluded cabins with your very own hot tub, in case you wanted to bring a little summer vibe to your holiday.

Price: The starting price for Thorpe Forest is £695.00 and that covers 2 adults sharing 1 room at Golden Oak Hideaways for 3 nights. Please note there are a number of locations available up and down the UK.

Edinburgh
if you do prefer cities, then consider Edinburgh as offers so much all year round. It’s compact with so much to see and do, it has a medieval Older Old Town and Elegant Georgian New Town with neoclassical buildings, and looming over the city is Edinburgh Castle, which tourists can visit between 9:30am – 5pm. The city also offers a lot of tourist attractions such it’s very own Zoo that play’s host to the Giant Panda, and you can enjoy a great shopping experience with plenty of unique bars and restaurants to encounter.

Staying in Edinburgh

The Cairn Collection
Close to Edinburgh Waverly Station, The Cairn Collection is great for getting settled soon after your train journey. It’s just a ten-minute walk from the hotel to Princes Street Gardens, and less than a 20-minute drive to Edinburgh Zoo. With free Wi-Fi in all rooms, you’ll be able to upload all your captured photos of the great city.

Perks include:

  • En-suite bathroom
  • TV
  • Complimentary snacks and bottled water
  • Tea and coffee making facilities
  • Hairdryer

Price: Small double room from £243.00* based on 2 adults for 2 nights.

Belfast
Capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast was the birthplace of the RMS Titanic, which the legacy of the famous ship is showcased at its museum located on the docks of where it was built and set sail. That’s just one of many exciting discoveries in Belfast. The city is alive with music, street theatre and festivals. You can discover unique shops and shop at your favourite high street retailers along with dining at award winning restaurants.

  • Game of Thrones Tours
    Winter definitely comes here. If you’re a loyal to the King in the North, then this route is for you. You’ll see sets and settings for scenes from Robb’s Camp to the fateful spot where the Starks found their Direwolf Pups.
  • Giant’s Causeway, Rope Bridge and Iron Islands – this route will see you cover everything in its title, as well as settings used for Arya in Braavos and the Red Lady’s Cave. Plus, you’ll get to explore the natural formation of The Dark Hedges. These beech trees were planted in the 18th century and form a beautifully haunting tunnel. It is even said that the famous Grey Lady wanders through the road…

Staying in Belfast
Jury’s Inn, Great Victoria Street
Jury’s Inn offers the best place to warm up in after a day out in the winter’s chill. Plus, if you’re heading out for the Game of Thrones Tours, the coach arrives outside this hotel at 8:15am. Upgrade your whole stay with the Superior Package at Jury’s Inn, featuring:

  • Air conditioning
  • Complimentary mineral water and biscuits
  • Newspaper
  • 10% lunch and dinner discount
  • Daily complimentary Costa coffee per guest

Price: Double Room with Superior Package from £283.50* for 2 adults for 2 nights.