As winter sweeps across the UK, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to help you embrace the season. From enchanting light trails and floating saunas to magical ice rinks and Christmas markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this festive season.
Dazzling Light Trails
This winter, light trails are illuminating the dark evenings, creating a spectacular sight for all ages. The Northern Light show at the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle, County Down, is an immersive light and sound experience that transports visitors to the Arctic and beyond. Tickets are priced at £35 for adults and £22 for children. Over in Cornwall, the Eden Project’s Christmas light show offers a magical Christmas party atmosphere with a carousel and theatrical performances (from £38 adults, £12 children).
In Gloucestershire, Westonbirt’s Christmas at the Arboretum features stunning neon trees, luminous birds, and tunnels of light, designed by the same team behind Christmas at Kew (from £18 adults, £12 children). For something unique, the Ancient Forest Twi-Lights at Landmark Forest Adventure Park in the Highlands offers a 1km trail through illuminated pines, complete with a treetop journey (from £15 adults, £10 children). Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly experience or a more serene stroll, there’s a light trail near you.
Floating Saunas for a Winter Retreat
Saunas are popping up across the UK, adding a relaxing twist to winter experiences. In Liverpool, the Wyld Sauna at Princes Dock offers a floating sauna experience where visitors can take a plunge in the icy docks or cool off with an ice bath (from £7 an hour).
On the Isle of Wight, the Slomo Floating Sauna features wood-fired saunas, a lake for swimming, and a cozy firepit area (£20 an hour). For a luxurious stay, Tiptoe Retreat in Northumberland offers two exclusive tree cabins with outdoor copper baths and a mirrored woodland sauna (from £390 for two nights).
Ice Rinks and Winter Fun
Ice skating is a must-do winter activity, and the UK is home to several stunning temporary rinks. Blenheim Palace, in Oxfordshire, hosts The Great Skate, a covered rink in its Great Court, with festive markets and a Neverland display (£15 adults, £10 children).
Another spectacular location is Ullswater in Cumbria, where the new rink at Another Place Hotel offers stunning views of the lake along with hot mulled wine and weekend markets (from £13 adults, £10 children). In Manchester, the Winter Assembly at Courts Club combines ice skating with karaoke, bratwurst, and festive films (£16 adults, £14 children).
Christmas Markets and Family Adventures
Winter festivals are also a highlight, with Christmas villages springing up across the country. Cambridge’s Parker’s Piece hosts a Christmas village with chalet huts, street food, and an après-ski bar with ski gondola booths. You can also explore an ice rink and curling lanes (free entry, some paid activities). Meanwhile, the Fabulously Festive Christmas Village at Hurtwood Park Polo Country Club in Surrey offers fairground rides, an ice rink, and visits to Santa (£12.50 entry).
In addition, unique attractions like the Polar Express train ride in Wales and the Star Bathing Parties at Cairngorm Bothies in Aberdeenshire offer unforgettable family experiences. Whether it’s stargazing, enjoying a festive train ride, or exploring outdoor art trails, winter in the UK promises plenty of magical memories.
Heritage and Culture this Christmas
For a dose of tradition, National Trust properties across England and Wales are hosting enchanting Christmas events. Powis Castle, in Wales, celebrates a Dickensian Christmas inspired by A Christmas Carol (from £15 adults).
Other properties, like Buckland Abbey in Devon, are embracing Viking traditions, while Nymans in West Sussex brings The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe to life (from £18 adults).
Warm Up with Winter Delights
Finally, there are plenty of cozy spots to warm up. The Polar Ice Bar in Edinburgh offers cocktails served in ice glasses within a chilling -8°C environment (from £14). Pubs across eastern England, like the Lifeboat Inn in Norfolk, are offering winter gardens with blankets, faux furs, and hearty dishes like tartiflette pizza and pretzels. For an alpine-inspired experience, the Hare & Hounds near Windermere in Cumbria offers fondue and mulled wine in a festive tipi (£45 a head, for groups).
With so many winter attractions across the UK, there’s no better time to enjoy the season with family and friends. Whether you’re seeking festive lights, winter sports, or unique cultural experiences, this winter offers something truly special for everyone.
