Top Winter Weekend Breaks in the UK
It’s fair to say the winter blues are in full effect but here we have a collection of some of the best winter weekend breaks UK. Despite the plummeting temperatures, short days and long nights, winter is still the perfect time for a staycation. Imagine snuggling up in soft sheepskins, toasting toes in front of warming log burners and sipping bubbles in the hot tub with the cool winter air kissing your cheek – there are plenty of idyllic places for cosy winter weekends away in December in the UK.
From dog-friendly log cabins in the Scottish Highlands, to luxury holiday cottages, to lodges with hot tubs for Christmas, read on for our pick of the best Winter weekend breaks in the UK. Along with some amazing places you could visit during your stay. That’s if you can drag yourself away from the snuggly blankets of course!
A Welsh Winter Wonderland
The Willow Hill, Aberdovey, Gwynedd
Overview: Beautiful views over Aberdovey, a perfect grown up escape in the Welsh countryside
Sleeps: 4
Key info: Self-catering | Sea Views | Parking | WiFi | Hot Tub
Summary: Escape to Wales in this hidden gem beside the sea. The Willow Hill is nestled into the landscape but with large, airy open plan rooms. There are two bedrooms and an open plan kitchen / living space with beautiful far reaching views over Aberdovey and towards the Cambrian Mountains. Outside there is a private seating area to enjoy dining al fresco and a glorious hot tub to sink into.
Things to do and places to visit nearby:
The village of Aberdovey will be your first port of call. With a beautiful four mile stretch of sand, plus water sports for H2O enthusiasts. Try your hand at paddleboarding, kayaking, rowing and windsurfing. And further out into the estuary, you can even try deep sea fishing. Your pod is ideally located for exploring Southern Snowdonia. Your hiking boots are a must here. Scale the area’s tallest peak, Cadair Idris. You could travel by steam train by hopping aboard Talyllyn at nearby Tywyn, and seeing scenic sights such as Dalgoch Falls.
Book your stay at The Willow Hill
A Magical Winter Break Under the Stars
Overview: Idyllic Roundhouses with hot tubs on a cool glamping site in Cornwall. What a place for a winter break!
Sleeps: 2-6
Key info: Self-catering | By the Coast | Hot Tubs | Rural Retreat | Parking | WiFi | Dog friendly
Summary: This would be one of the most perfect places to stay in Cornwall at Christmas. Embrace a slower pace of life and immerse yourself in East Thorne retreat. This delightful Cornish retreat has a selection of super-luxurious larch-cladded Roundhouses for you to choose from. This wonderful Glamping site is where memories are made. Make the most of the extra facilities provided such as pizza ovens, treatment rooms, communal campfires and of course the on site street food van.
Things to do and places to visit nearby
East Thorne isn’t just a quirky place to stay, think of it more as an experience. Climbing frames (big kids allowed also), farm animals and plenty of walking routes are right on your doorstep. Signature massage treatments are also offered onsite, make your festive break even more special by booking one of those treatments. Just a few minutes away from the roundhouses there are plenty of beaches to be explored, there is something special about walking on a beach on a cool crisp day. The picturesque harbour village of Clovelly is just a short drive away. If you are staying in late November, you may just be able to watch the Christmas lights being turned on and the procession down to the harbour, one of the reasons why these idyllic Roundhouses are perfect for winter breaks in the UK for a family!
Book your stay at East Thorne >>
A Romantic Winter Getaway for Two – Hot Tub Included!
Overview: Bursting with luxury and style, The Piglet Pod firmly places the glam into glamping!
Sleeps: 2
Price: From £145 a night
Key info: Self-catering | Rural Retreat | Hot tub | Coffee Machine | Parking | WiFi
Summary:  Idyllically situated beside a natural pond on a working farm. The Piglet Pod offers the perfect winter lodge holidays in the UK for couples in search of a romantic glamping spot in Wales with a hot tub. A rural sanctuary, this is one impressive property with homely touches merged effortlessly with an exacting design. A king-size bed forms the focal point of the living area. Positioned for prime in-bed countryside views, it also faces the Smart TV, perfect for enjoying late-night movies beneath the duvet. Throw open the glass doors and step out onto your very own decking (don’t forget to say hello to the Alpacas!) then slip into the warm bubbles of the sunken hot tub.
Things to do and places to visit nearby
Within walking distance you’ll find the village of Llanarth, with a pub, and a small but well stocked shop. The village farm shop/butcher is also a must-visit if you’re keen to sample local produce.
A short drive away, is the harbour town of Aberaeron, named as one of the best seaside towns to visit in the UK by a Which reader survey. Iconic pastel houses peer across the picturesque harbour, the town embodying a traditional coastal town vibe. Wrap up warm and spend the afternoon crabbing on the harbour walls with a competition to see who can catch the most! Another option is the popular seaside town of New Quay. Treat yourself to fish and chips and browse the lovely shops. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins! And that’s just the beginning. The West Coast of Wales has so much natural beauty to explore, all right on your doorstep, whatever the weather!
Book your stay at The Piglet Pod >>
Luxury Lodges with Jacuzzi Hot Tubs!
Bowland Retreat Lodges, Lancashire
Overview: Luxury Lodges with Hot Tubs, oh yes, this will do nicely!
Sleeps: 2-6
Key info: Self-catering | Family-friendly | Luxurious interiors | Hot Tub | No pets
Summary:  Make here one of your ‘must-dos’ for winter weekend breaks in the UK. Nothing screams luxury more than Bowland Retreat Lodges. Each timber lodge has been carefully designed to make the most of the wonderful space. Situated in the heart of the Ribble Valley, near Clitheroe, Bowland Retreat Lodges offers a stylish retreat perfect for December short breaks in the UK. Not to mention the lodges boast Jacuzzi Hot Tubs! This has to be one of the most luxurious and best winter getaways.
Things to do and places to visit nearby
During your stay at Bowland Retreat Lodges you could head on over to Holmes Mill, a former textile Mill that is now the perfect place to explore and sample some of the best food, drink and entertainment Lancashire has to offer. From late November onwards the venue is also home to a wonderful Christmas market. With live music, delicious hog roasts, mulled wine and cider all on offer. For those with a sweeter tooth, treat yourself to a delicious Hot chocolate from The Chocolate Works then take a nice walk around Clitheroe Castle ground.
Book your stay at Bowland Retreat Lodges >>
A Wintery Hideout on the Lake
Browning Bros Secret Escapes, Essex
Overview: Two luxurious lakeside hideouts for Winter escapes in the UK.
Sleeps: 2-6
Price: From £200 a night
Key info: Self-catering | Family Getaway | Hot tub | Indoor Bath | Parking | WiFi | Dog Friendly
Summary:  The ultimate retreat for winter weekend breaks in the UK for couples or family holidays. Kingfisher’s Nest sleeps two and Water Lily Lodge can sleep up to six. The interiors inside are simply divine with all the home comforts and added luxuries you could ever need. Offering beautiful views across the lake and a perfect star-gazing spot in the hot tub. This is a winter getaway not to be missed!
Things to do and places to visit nearby
There’s plenty to do (or not do!) near Browning Bros Secret Escapes such as a visit to Colchester Zoo, Markshall Estate, Colchester Castle and Colchester Leisure World. Or, perhaps you’re in desperate need of retail therapy or some urgent Christmas shopping, in this case hop on the train to the beloved Oxford Street in London.
Book your stay at Browning Bros Secret Escapes >>
Winter Adventures With Friends
Overview: The generous space and sleeping areas downstairs can be booked for a family of four or for large groups of up to fourteen, add the ten comfy beds in the lofty bunk room above.
Sleeps: 4-14
Price: From £450 a night
Key info: Self-catering | Family Getaway | Hot Tub Breaks North Yorkshire | Indoor Bath | Parking | WiFi
Summary: The best of the best of Winter lodges in the UK. An immaculate barn conversion in a splendid spot for exploring Yorkshire, this bunk house is in a class all of its own.  Beds can make way for a dance floor for parties or a pop-up yoga studio should it take your fancy! Handcrafted bespoke and original woodwork and a hearty wood burning stove downstairs create cosiness. Beanbags and a sumptuous super-sofa allow for everyone to settle in for an evening of games or chatter, and to eagerly lay plans for the next day of adventure.
Things to do and places to visit nearby
With lovers of the great outdoors in mind, Peddler’s Den welcomes muddy bikes and even accommodates your horses by prior arrangement. Taking in the spectacular scenery of the North York Moors and The Howardian Hills AONB is a must, followed by dinner at one of the many fantastic restaurants on the coast or historic village eateries inland.
Active families are well catered for with lots of options within easy reach. Go Ape aerial assault course, Forest Segways and Dalby Forest Cycle Hub are all ten minutes away, and winter wonderland at Flamingo Land theme park and zoo is even closer.
Book your stay at Peddlers Den >>
A Winter Wonderland in the Scottish Highlands
Overview: Eight lodges nestled in the Scottish Highlands, each offering something different depending on your accommodation needs.
Sleeps: 2-6
Price: From £150 a night
Key info: Self-catering | Family Getaway | Dog Friendly | Parking | WiFi
Summary: Banish those Winter blues and experience the beauty of the Scottish Highlands in Winter with a stay at Big Sky Lodges. With views over the snow capped mountains and Highland Cows for company, these lodges make the most enchanting winter escape. With cosy log burners and sumptuous interiors, you’ll feel right at home. Big Sky Lodges have accommodation suitable for romantic breaks, family getaways or holidays with friends, just choose the lodge that meets your needs.
Things to do and places to visit nearby
The Scottish landscapes are magical at any time of year, but Winter is a truly enchanting time to visit. With frost covered glens, snow topped mountains and glassy lochs, the scenery is breath-taking. Big Sky Lodges are a paradise for outdoor adventurers. The Black Isle is perfect for a brisk walk or mountain bike, or head to the Cairngorm mountain Ski resort for some Winter sports. Families may enjoy a fresh day on the beach at Rosemarkie. The small city of Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, is only a fifteen-minute drive away. And in under twenty five minutes you could be at Urquahart Castle, overlooking the famed Loch Ness. A boat trip on the Loch is a must! And after a day exploring you can retreat back to your cosy log cabin, snuggle in front of the log burner and play some board games. The perfect Winter escape!
Book your stay at Big Sky Lodges >>
Snuggle Up Together in Your Cosy Winter Romantic Hideaway
Rewild Things Treehouses, Gloucestershire
Overview: Six luxurious and unique treehouses tucked into a curve of the River Severn in the Gloucestershire countryside
Sleeps: 2-4
Price: From £250 a night
Key info: Self-catering | Outdoor Bath | Dog Friendly | Parking | WiFi
Summary: Â With floor-to-ceiling windows and a log burner in your bedroom, you can snuggle up and enjoy the wintery landscapes without leaving the comfort of your sumptuous super king-sized bed at Rewild Things. Each treehouse features cosy fabrics and toasty textures to keep you warm on those chilly winter nights. Head out onto the deck for a bathe beneath the moonlight amongst the trees, or light the fire and cosy up in sheepskins with a warming drink to chat the night away. The most idyllic winter weekend break in the UK if you ask us!
Things to do and places to visit nearby
If you can bring yourself to escape your cosy treehouse. There is plenty on offer! In only fifteen minutes you can find yourself in the cathedral city of Gloucester, explore its vibrant streets and historic pubs. Keen gardeners will enjoy a visit to Barnwood Park and Arboretum. Or the National Arboretum at Westonbirt, thirty-five minutes away. Or head into the Cotswolds AONB to explore the quintessential wintery wonderland that is so hard to beat here in the UK. With cobbled streets, breath-taking views and plenty of picturesque English villages to explore.
Book your stay at Rewild Things Treehouses >>
If none of these quite hit the spot, we have plenty more to tempt your taste buds! Head over to our Inspiration section to find your next weekend away in December in the UK!