Where to get away this winter

Whether you’re a winter lover, or spend the months counting down until the UK is blessed with spring sunshine, there’s no denying there is something magical about a winter getaway.  Imagine a weekend sitting by a cosy fire in a traditional pub, sipping a glass of red wine or steamy hot chocolate, perhaps playing a board game or reading the paper. To us winter means blustery walks along the beach or in one of London’s great parks, followed by a Sunday roast in the pub so good you can’t stop thinking about for the days to follow.

A winter getaway doesn’t have to break the bank.  Thanks to its rich history and many world-famous cultural attractions, there is no end to the memorable weekend breaks on offer to couples, families and solo travellers in England.

1. Carnarvon Arms, Berkshire

The Carnarvon Arms is a glorious country pub in the heart of Berkshire, that envelops you in a traditional English setting from the moment you arrive, with it’s roaring fires, wooden floors and low beams.  A recent refurbishment means the hotel rooms are also equally as stunning as the surrounding countryside and AONB. This pub & hotel also has a rather extraordinary neighbour in Highclere Castle, known for being the location of Downton Abbey.  It is also rumoured that it’s residents Lord & Lady Carnarvon, have been seen popping by the pub from time to time!

2. The Park Hotel, Teddington

This grand, Grade II listed Victorian hotel is an iconic landmark, set in the heart of Teddington.  As one of leafy South-West London’s most chic and peaceful neighbourhoods, visitors won’t be short of things to do.  Boutique shops and cafés line the pretty streets that lead to Teddington Lock, which marks the end of the tidal River Thames, and not to forget the hotel looks onto one of London’s greatest parks.  Bushy Park; famous for being the hunting ground of Henry VIII, the grounds of Hampton Court Palace, and for it’s herd of free-roaming (and friendly) deer, provides an unbeatable day out in the fresh air this winter.

3. The Bell, Stow-on-the-Wold

Stretching across 800 square miles of bucolic hills, the Cotswolds is one of England’s most loved and visited regions, and all for good reason.  The enduring appeal of stately manor houses, castles, timeless churches and gardens is enough please any traveller, and this is personified no better than in the village of Stow-on-the-Wold, in the very heart of the Cotswolds. Perched on the edge of this village is it’s most rustic country pub and hotel, The Bell.  Picture low beames, flagstone floors and smouldering fires, creating a magical escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If sitting back and unwinding over a pint of cask ale and a freshly cooked pie is how you imagine your countryside getaway, then look no further.

4. The Seagate, Devon

Why not kick back this winter with a coastal break in the beautiful North Devon. The Seagate is located on the seafront in the pretty fishing village of Appledore and provides the perfect spot for exploring the dramatic coastline of the South West Coastal Path, whilst breathing in gallons of glorious fresh Atlantic sea air.  Their large car park means you can drive along the rugged coastal roads, or for those who want to fasten those hiking boots and explore on foot, you can head back to the pub after and indulge in well earned hearty British meal whilst cuddling up next to the fire, looking out to sea.

5. The Lamb Hindon

The quintessential British countryside doesn’t get much better than this 12th century coaching inn with an idyllic setting in the postcard village of Hindon, in the Wiltshire Downs AONB.  With stunning boutique bedrooms, an excellent Head Chef providing seasonal British menus with an innovative twist, and a bar stocked full of real cask ale and wines from around the world, you won’t ever want to leave. The local area includes the sites of Stonehenge and Longleat, perfect for family fun for all, or those oh-so-romantic trips.  Nestled between many famous sporting estates and fishing rivers, this hotel has a long history of looking after country sports participants, and even boasts having previously hosted the Prince of Wales!