Our best bets for a Christmas holiday
It's not easy to know what sort of Christmastime getaway will be possible this year, but we're keeping a close eye on restrictions so you don't have to. Below you'll find our best bets for a winter slow travel break and a few ideas for spring.
All of our UK departure cities are currently under strict travel restrictions and from 6pm yesterday a travel ban came into force between Scotland and the rest of the UK until at least early December. If you’re in Wales, though, you can travel to other parts of Wales (local restrictions permitting). It still looks like the national lockdown in England will lift on 2nd December as planned. We expect to have better visibility soon, and we'll keep you posted.
All of our trips are 100% refundable if restrictions mean they can't go ahead, and protected by ABTA. We can't wait to take you away.
Our best bets for a winter escape
Starry skies in Scotland
There's nowhere better in the UK to settle in for a night of stargazing than remote parts of Scotland. Clean, clear skies and the long, dark nights of winter are perfect for bundling up and settling down with a steaming flask under the Milky Way. In winter it's often possible to see the Northern Lights, which put on entrancing nighttime performances until March. The Isle of Skye is our favourite spot to catch them.
Photo: Gorton Bothy by John Stoddard
Mulled Wine in the West Country
Sheltered in the rolling hills of the West Country are sleepy country villages and cosy pubs. Bath is the perfect place to soak up some festive cheer this December. Independent shops and cafes abound, and Christmastime sees outdoor stalls selling mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
Midwinter on the Moors
For a change of air this winter, the sweeping North York
Moors offer wild, bracing walks and cosy evenings tucked up in front of the fire. Our favourite shepherd's hut on the edge of the enchanting Dalby Forest is the ideal place to stay.
Looking to spring and summer
Almond blossom in Provence
It's warm and bright in Nice in the spring. Provence's countryside is filled with almond and cherry blossom, the fruit is ripening and it's noticeably sunnier and warmer than the UK. Walk in the hills overlooking the coast and swim in the clear blue mediterranean sea.
Sunshine in the Scillies
The laid-back lifestyle in the beautiful Scilly isles makes you feel a million miles from home. There are only a few shops, couple of pubs, a vineyard and a flower farm. Pause in Western Cornwall on your travels to the Isles and back, where wide beaches, rambling cliffs and pretty towns make for the perfect UK break.
