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Wooden stile over drystone wall amongst fields. Winter frost in Bristol, Somerset, England

Winter experiences

Embrace the magic of a UK winter with crisp air, frosted fields, illuminated streets and centuries-old traditions, that all come alive during the colder months. Discover the best winter activities, from ice skating in historic locations to exploring festive markets brimming with seasonal treats. Whether you’re wandering through candle-lit and choir-adorned cathedrals, or exploring outdoor winter activities in wintry countryside landscapes, the UK offers moments of wonder at every turn. Families will find plenty to do with the kids in the winter, with festive shows and fun-filled indoor activities to keep them cosy and out of the cold. Discover unforgettable experiences across the country and let us help you make the most of this special season.

Winter experiences in the UK

We’ve handpicked our most-loved winter experiences to bring you the very best of the season. Whether you’re planning a family adventure, a romantic getaway or a festive outing with friends, savour each moment and create heartwarming memories this winter season.
 

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Experience the best of London at your own pace as you jump on a sightseeing bus with over 40 stops...

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From:
€49.00
London
Big Bus London London Eye

Explore three of the UK’s most popular attractions on this day tour

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From:
€131.00
London
A family visiting the Roman Baths during Golden Tours' Windsor Castle, Bath and Stonehenge tour

See Scotland's top three royal attractions - including Edinburgh Castle - with one great-value pass

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From:
€92.00
Scotland
Bestseller
Edinburgh Castle

Immerse yourself in 42 masterpieces from 29 of the world's most iconic artists, each reimagined...

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From:
€34.00
London
Framless beyond reality where a painting takes the shape of an entire room

Discover the charms of England’s largest, grandest Tudor palace and home to the notorious Henry VIII

From:
€34.00
London
Bestseller
Exterior shot of Hampton Court Palace entrance

Unmissable musical adaptation of Victor Hugo's 1862 novel Les Misérables, the world's longest...

From:
€43.00
London
Award winning production of Les Miserables is playing in London

Explore St Paul’s, the national cathedral and architectural masterpiece, where Londoners come...

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From:
€31.00
London
Bestseller
St Paul's Cathedral _ Golden Tours _ 1

Experience the magic of a night ride across the bustling city and rediscover the most iconic sights...

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From:
€37.00
London
London by Night Open Top Bus Tour - Golden Tours 01.jpg

Winter experiences in the UK

A winter spent in the UK is a truly magical one. Peaceful and frosty landscapes, cosy British pubs with roaring fireplaces, twinkling Christmas lights illuminating the misty, cold nights - and of course, it’s all topped off with a healthy dollop of festive cheer.

London shines bright in the winter fog, with its bucket-list landmarks getting suitably dressed up for the occasion, as well as famous department stores like Harrods putting on grand displays of yuletide delight.

Those looking to escape the city will find solace in countryside retreats in natural wonders like the Scottish Highlands and Snowdonia, where you can find snowy cottage retreats where you can live your “Cameron Diaz in The Holiday” fantasy.

Mother Nature’s masterpieces shine even brighter in the winter, where you can enjoy outdoor winter activities like winter hiking, wildlife watching and sledding, all in bewitching snow-capped settings.

Whether you’re dreaming of city lights or countryside tranquillity, there’s no shortage of activities to do in the UK this winter. Let us help you make the most of this enchanting season - check out our winter experiences in the VisitBritain Shop.

A snowy village in Britain with a dog walker

Things to do for families in winter in the UK

Create magical family memories in the UK this winter! Take a scenic woodland walk, discover historic castles decked out for the season, or try a winter wildlife tour where the little ones can spot local animals in their frosty habitats.

Find things to do with the kids during December half term, to make the season as enchanting as can be.

With so many things to do, winter in the UK is the perfect time to make memories that kids and adults alike will cherish.

A mum with her two kids on the beach during winter
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Enjoy a family fun day at this popular attraction based in the village of Bournville, near...

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From:
€27.50
England
Bestseller
Cadbury World - Merlin 01.jpg

Join the Paddington Tour to delve into the world of your favorite children's book character

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From:
€22.00
London
Paddington Bear™ London Walking Tour _ Brit Movie Tours

Experience a festive day out at Warwick Castle and tour its grand State Rooms and Hall, all...

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England
Warwick Castle during the winter on a frosty day

See what happened to the universally known characters of The Wizard of Oz in this magically stunning...

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€35.00
London
Bestseller
Glinda whispers something into The Wicked Witch of the West's ear in Wicked

Winter trips and tours in the UK

Our trips and tours reveal the true magic of winter in the UK. From guided tours of cities when they’re illuminated in Christmas lights, to countryside excursions around frosted wintry landscapes, these winter tours in the UK help you make the most of the season.

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Feel the magic of Christmas invading London’s most famous landmarks and see how the skyline shines...

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London
London by Night with Christmas Lights Tour - Golden Tours 01.jpg

Discover the enchantment of a Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich tour with a delightful traditional...

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England
Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich Tour with Christmas Lunch _ Golden Tours _ Dover in winter

Indulge in a sumptuous Christmas lunch while immersing yourself in the rich history and picturesque...

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London
Oxford, Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon Tour with Christmas Lunch _ Golden Tours 4 _ anne hathaways cottage through willow.

Embark on a one-of-a-kind holiday adventure with our Salisbury, Stonehenge, Bath and Windsor Tour...

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South West England
Salisbury, Stonehenge and Windsor Tour with Christmas Lunch _ Golden Tours 5

Travel back in time on this state-of-the-art steam train while discovering the fascinating Scottish...

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Scotland
jacobite_steam_train_passing_over_the_glenfinnan_viaduct

Kickstart your festive celebrations with an unforgettable journey through the enchanting beauty of...

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London
Illuminations of London on Christmas Eve Tour _ Golden Tours 5

Christmas in the UK

From cosy village pubs to bustling city festivities, Christmas in the UK is truly delightful.

Wander through Christmas markets with a mulled wine in hand, and peruse handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats, or visit the UK’s heritage sites when they’re dressed in their Christmas finery.

You can find the best things to do in the UK during the Christmas season on our Christmas shop page.