This is a post about UK city breaks for the perfect cosy weekend.
This website contains affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them at no extra cost to you. Using these links helps support our work, so we truly appreciate it if you choose to do so. Thank you for your support!
I know summer gets a lot of hype when it comes to travelling. Longer days, warmer temperatures which make it easier to be outside and, well, pack! But I’m here to make the case for winter travelling with a few suggested UK city breaks. There are good things about winter too… log fires, cosy ambience, hot drinks, comfort food and, best of all, smaller crowds! =)
Winter in the UK offers the perfect opportunity to escape to charming cities with cosy atmospheres, rich history and possibly still some festive vibes. Here are seven idyllic places for a snug winter weekend city break in the UK:
Winchester, Hampshire
Famed for its Christmas market and stunning cathedral, Winchester is a quintessential winter destination.
- Explore the Winchester Cathedral and its atmospheric Christmas services.
- Visit the Great Hall, home to King Arthur’s Round Table.
- Enjoy warm drinks in cosy pubs like The Wykeham Arms.
- Stay at The Winchester Hotel & Spa for some added relaxation or Hotel du Vin & Bistro for an upscale, city centre choice.
York, North Yorkshire
York transforms into a Dickensian wonderland during winter.
- Stroll along The Shambles, one of the UK’s most picturesque streets.
- Experience York Minster’s winter light displays.
- Visit Bishopthorpe Road for boutique shops and artisan cafés.
- If you’re got some time on your hands and, like me, have a penchant for bookish vibes, hop on a train to Haworth for the Brontë sisters’ museum and more.
- Stays in York don’t come cheap but some of them are absolutely beautiful! Like the Judges Lodgings or the Nº1 by GuestHouse. Both right in the centre by York Minster.
- If you’re able to, take a walk on the city walls. Yep, you read correctly. You can walk ON the walls!
- And if you’re into Korean food, Bulgogi Korean & BBQ is a great choice!
Canterbury, Kent
This UNESCO-listed city offers a medieval charm perfect for winter escapes.
- Visit Canterbury Cathedral for its stunning architecture and history.
- Explore the quaint streets of Westgate Gardens.
- Cosy up in a historic pub like The Parrot, which dates back to the 14th century.
- Learn about the local Roman history by literally going down to their level at the Canterbury Roman Museum
- City centre hotels include the ABode Canterbury, Hampton by Hilton and Cathedral Gate House.
Peak District
The Peak District offers quaint towns and breathtaking countryside perfect for frosty hikes.
- Stay in Bakewell and try the famous Bakewell tart.
- Explore the stunning Chatsworth House
- For relaxation, visit the Buxton Crescent Spa Hotel.
- If you’re after a really special, celebratory stay, look no further than the remote Losehill House Hotel & Spa. Or go for the Old Hall Hotel for a more affordable option in the centre of Buxton.
- Great spot for hikers!
Bath, Somerset
Bath is ideal for combining historical exploration with luxury.
- Unwind at the Thermae Bath Spa, complete with rooftop pools.
- Tour the Roman Baths by torchlight for a unique winter experience.
- Admire Georgian architecture at the Royal Crescent. You can actually stay there at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
- Literature fans might be interested in the Jane Austen Centre.
- As the thermal baths capital of the UK, there’s obviously no shortage of spas in town. Such as The Bath Priory and Spa. But if you’re just looking to rest your head, how about the boutique Hotel Indigo or The Queensberry.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Winter in Edinburgh is magical, with the backdrop of its historic castle and festive markets. Although, like I said in so many posts, Edinburgh is a top choice all year round!
- Wander through the Royal Mile and surroundings. Especially Cockburn St (it’s pronounced “Coburn” 😅), Cowgate and Grassmarket.
- Take a possibly snowy walk up Arthur’s Seat for breathtaking views.
- Warm up with whisky tastings at the Scotch Whisky Experience. Grab your ticket here if you want to skip the queue.
- Head to Thomas J Walls for brunch/coffee before or after a visit to the super cool National Museum of Scotland. Don’t forget to stop by Mary’s Milk Bar on Grassmarket where you can have THE best ice cream while looking up at the Edinburgh Castle.
Oxford, Oxfordshire
Known for its dreamy spires, Oxford feels enchanting in the wintertime.
- Wander the grounds of Christ Church College.
- Take a peaceful winter walk along the River Thames.
- Explore the Ashmolean Museum for some indoor culture.
- Potterheads might want to join a Harry Potter tour
These city breaks are perfect for embracing the beauty and charm of the UK during the colder months. With a mix of cosy cafés, historic sites and winter activities, you’ll find each destination an ideal retreat for a weekend escape. But if you’re really looking to ESCAPE the winter vibes, check out our list of winter sun destinations.
