As the temperatures drop and woodlands turn frosty, there’s no better time to pull on your jackets, lace up your walking boots, and set off in search of the UK’s most magical winter destinations.
With snow-covered Highland hikes and festive streets lined with twinkling market stalls, this season is full of outdoor adventures.
GO Outdoors reveal where in the UK offers the best escape for snowfall, woodland walks, log-fire pubs, cabins, and Christmas cheer.
These getaway destinations have something to offer for every type of traveller, so what are you waiting for?
- Key findings
- Where is the best place in the UK to spend winter?
- Where are the best Christmas markets in the UK?
- Where are you most likely to see snow in the UK?
- Methodology
Key findings
- Inverness is the UK’s ultimate winter destination for the second year in a row
- Manchester makes its way into the top three, ranking second, thanks to its huge Christmas market
- Edinburgh takes the third spot for the second consecutive year, boasting historic scenery and plenty of easy walking trails
- Inverness is also the place you’re most likely to see snow this year
- Birmingham hosts the UK’s longest-running Christmas market, with 54 days of fun
Where is the best place in the UK to spend winter?
Across the UK, each destination provides its own take on a winter escape.
Oxford has more than five times as many pubs with real fires as Inverness, making it perfect for cosy evenings in historic inns.
Manchester’s world-famous Christmas Market outshines the rest with nearly four times as many stalls as Newcastle or Nottingham, and more than three times as many as Edinburgh.
Meanwhile, Sheffield’s location on the edge of the Peak District gives it more than double the woodland cover of Oxford, Cambridge, or Birmingham, and makes it a paradise for winter walkers.
But when all factors are combined, from snow days and cabin stays to hikes and festive markets, Inverness takes the top spot as the UK’s ultimate winter adventure.
| Rank | Area | Cabins with 2+ bedrooms per 50km² | October – December snowfall (cm) | October – December snow days | Pubs with a real fire per 50km² | Local authority woodland cover | Easy hikes per 50km² | Christmas market stalls | Christmas market days | Winter adventure score/10 |
| 1 | Inverness | 227.8 | 17.6 | 15 | 12.43 | 16% | 45.6 | 100 | 3 | 9.81 |
| 2 | Manchester | 133.7 | 3.2 | 4 | 30.28 | 7% | 24.2 | 200 | 46 | 9.39 |
| 3 | Edinburgh | 35.0 | 1.5 | 4 | 14.64 | 11% | 27.9 | 70 | 51 | 8.43 |
| 4 | Birmingham | 76.2 | 1.2 | 6 | 13.63 | 6% | 11.8 | 100 | 54 | 8.27 |
| 5 | Nottingham | 90.5 | 2.6 | 5 | 55.62 | 5% | 24.1 | 60 | 49 | 8.06 |
| 6 | Newcastle | 112.0 | 1.6 | 7 | 35.71 | 6% | 13.2 | 53 | 39 | 7.89 |
| 7 | Sheffield | 14.9 | 8.1 | 4 | 7.75 | 13% | 10.6 | 60 | 51 | 7.67 |
| 8 | Bath | 58.6 | 0.1 | 2 | 47.98 | 8% | 27.5 | 180 | 18 | 7.39 |
| 9 | Cambridge | 45.5 | 0.2 | 3 | 46.68 | 5% | 66.3 | TBC | 49 | 7.33 |
| 10 | Oxford | 94.3 | 0.1 | 3 | 64.69 | 6% | 31.8 | 50 | 39 | 6.85 |
- Inverness – Winter adventure score: 9.81/10
Inverness is the ideal location for a winter getaway for the second year in a row. Staying here comes with crisp Highland mornings where you can see frost-covered trees, rolling hills, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the River Ness.
Inverness may host a Christmas Market for only three days, but this brief window adds to its charm. Compared to the busy, larger city markets, visitors can enjoy a more intimate, low-key festive atmosphere, with artisanal stalls set against the backdrop of stunning Highland scenery.
The Scottish city stands out with more winter cabins nearby than any other UK location we looked at, with over 200, including one cabin just a five-minute walk from the city centre, located in the grounds of Ardentorrie House. The quaint stay overlooks the city and Inverness Castle with Ben Wyvis in the distance.
There is also a good chance of seeing snow over the winter, with the city averaging 15 days of snowfall from October to December.
The snowy setting makes for the perfect backdrop for hiking a scenic loop beneath snowy pines, taking advantage of Inverness’s many easy hikes compared to almost any other city in our study.
The Inverness Castle and River Circular takes around an hour to complete and offers magical views of Inverness Castle and quiet riverside paths.
- Manchester – Winter adventure score: 9.39/10
From the buzzing city centre to the quiet of the surrounding natural landscapes, Manchester offers something for everyone this winter. The northern English city takes the second spot in our ranking, away from Glasgow, which ranked second last year.
While you are unlikely to see as much snowfall as further up north in the UK, Manchester averages 3.2 cm of snow in winter over four days.
The sheer scale of its festive market is unmatched. With 200 stalls open for 46 days this winter, it has secured its spot as one of the most festive destinations.
Wandering through wooden huts under twinkling fairy lights in a buzzing atmosphere will undoubtedly bring that winter charm. The German Pancake House is a must-visit stall, serving fresh waffles and sweet pancakes to keep you warm.
Just a short drive away, you’ll find quiet woodland patches and almost 25 easy walking trails per 50 km². A scenic walk is ideal for resetting and finding a peaceful atmosphere. Heaton Park Circular takes less than an hour and a half to walk, and you can spot wildlife like squirrels and birds.
Post-hike, you’re spoilt for choice with over 30 pubs per 50 km² boasting roaring fires, for that perfect warming or festive drink. Peveril of the Peak is a city centre pub with a warming fire and cosy vibe.
- Edinburgh – Winter adventure score: 8.43/10
Winter in Edinburgh offers a timeless festive experience, maintaining its third-place spot from last year. Cobblestones, frosty ancient architecture, and views over the city from the Salisbury Crags trail make this city one of the most ideal places to spend winter.
While snow is rare, averaging just 1.5 cm over four days, Edinburgh’s location is ideal for winter walks.
You can start your day with a morning hike up Arthur’s Seat, breathe in the crisp air, and see unmatched views of the city.
Later, explore the 70-stall Christmas market, open for 51 days, and browse artisan gifts while sipping hot chocolate and taking in the historic charm.
End the day in a pub with a real fire and a warming evening meal. With almost 15 to choose from per 50 km², there are plenty of options. The Castle Arms is the perfect choice, with a kitchen that uses fresh, locally purchased ingredients to create classic Scottish dishes.
Where are the best Christmas markets in the UK?
| Rank | Area | Christmas market stalls | Christmas market days | Christmas market score/10 |
| 1 | Birmingham | 100 | 54 | 9.50 |
| 2 | Manchester | 200 | 46 | 9.18 |
| 3 | Canterbury | 172 | 43 | 8.46 |
| 4 | Edinburgh | 70 | 51 | 8.07 |
| 5 | Cambridge | 49 | 7.82 | |
| 6 | Sheffield | 60 | 51 | 7.07 |
| 6 | Cotswolds | 60 | 51 | 7.07 |
| 8 | Bath | 180 | 18 | 6.66 |
| 9 | Winchester | 128 | 32 | 6.62 |
| 10 | Belfast | 100 | 38 | 6.55 |
- Birmingham – Christmas market score: 9.50/10
Saturday, 1st November to Wednesday, 24th December 2025
Home to the Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham has 100 stalls open for a record-breaking 54 days.
It has the largest authentic German market outside Germany and Austria, filling Victoria Square with bratwurst grills, gingerbread hearts, and wooden craft huts.
You can try a stein of Bavarian beer under the glowing lights or watch live music from the traditional live band.
Just a short walk away, Cathedral Square market is perfect for handmade gifts and local bites.
- Manchester – Christmas market score: 9.18/10
Friday, 7th November to Monday, 22nd December 2025 | Albert Square stalls open until Sunday, 4th January
After a long wait, Manchester’s Christmas Market returns to Albert Square, reclaiming its place in front of the newly restored Town Hall. The festive hub now stretches across Piccadilly Gardens, Exchange Square, and St Ann’s Square. It’s a shopper’s paradise with 200 stalls and 46 days of fun.
The Albert Square market is set to have a 50-foot Ferris wheel overlooking rows of twinkling wooden chalets.
The Northern Quarter’s Makers’ Market, where local artists sell pottery, prints, and handmade decorations, is a must-visit for anyone on the hunt for one-of-a-kind trinkets and gifts.
For foodies, there’s vegan street food like gyros and halloumi wraps, Dutch mini-pancakes, and Hungarian chimney cakes.
The whole experience includes music, lights, and mulled cider on tap, making it one of the UK’s most vibrant Christmas destinations. An insulated flask can help keep your festive drinks (comforting hot cocoa…or a cheeky mulled wine) warm while you explore.
If you’re not ready for Christmas to end in December, Albert Square’s stalls stay open until 4th January, offering one last winter warm-up to carry you into the new year.
- Canterbury – Christmas market score: 8.46/10
Wednesday, November 12th to Wednesday, 24th December 2025
With the backdrop of the famous cathedral, Canterbury’s Christmas Market is one of the most magical places to visit this winter.
Its 172 stalls are open for 43 days, filling the medieval streets with festive cheer.
You can find Kentish cheeses such as Kentish Blue and locally made goat’s cheese to buy and gift. Other gift options include candles and woollen knits.
If sampling sweet treats is more your thing, international flavours, like Belgian waffles and Spanish churros, will satisfy your craving.
Families can also visit Santa’s Grotto in Whitefriars Square, while carol singers bring the old city’s cobbled streets to life.
Where are you most likely to see snow in the UK?
| Rank | Area | October – December snowfall (cm) | October – December snow days |
| 1 | Inverness | 17.6 | 15 |
| 2 | Cheshire West and Chester | 3.5 | 5 |
| 3 | Sheffield | 8.1 | 4 |
| 4 | Newcastle | 1.6 | 7 |
| 5 | Glasgow | 2.8 | 5 |
| 6 | Manchester | 3.2 | 4 |
| 6 | Nottingham | 2.6 | 5 |
| 8 | Belfast | 1.6 | 5 |
| 9 | Birmingham | 1.2 | 6 |
| 10 | Edinburgh | 1.5 | 4 |
- Inverness – 17.6 cm of winter snow | 15 winter snow days
Inverness claims the top spot, with an average of 17.6 cm of snowfall and 15 snow days between October and December.
The Highland destination is the perfect base for winter sports, with nearby Cairngorm Mountain Resort and Glenshee Ski Centre offering skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoe trails for all levels.
For families looking for a white winter or adventurous visitors seeking a snow sports getaway, Inverness delivers the perfect experience. Make sure you prepare well for icy trips to the Cairngorms, with walking poles and suitable footwear, such as mountain boots.
- Cheshire West and Chester – 3.5 cm of winter snow | 5 winter snow days
Cheshire West and Chester records 3.5 cm of snowfall and five snow days through winter, making it a charming and often overlooked winter destination.
The rolling hills around Delamere Forest look breathtaking under a dusting of snow, and the area’s many walking trails (10 per 50 km²) make it ideal for families.
One scenic route is the Old Pale Trail, a short circular walk that climbs to the summit of Old Pale Hill. From the top, you can see views of the Cheshire Plain, the Welsh hills, and even the Pennines in the distance, making for a magical experience.
- Sheffield – 8.1 cm of winter snow | 4 winter snow days
Sheffield’s location on the edge of the Peak District, with its high elevation and exposure to weather conditions, gives it an advantage in snowy weather.
On average, there is 8.1 cm of winter snow and four snow days. The Porter Valley trail offers a beautiful winter walk, with frosted trees and quiet streams leading to the edge of the city.
In the centre, you can cosy up at The Broadfield Ale House beside its open fire, or explore the nearby Kelham Island Christmas Market, where independent makers sell crafts, jewellery, and seasonal treats.
Methodology
To find the ultimate winter adventures, each location was ranked on the following factors:
- Cabins with two or more bedrooms sourced using Airbnb on 26th September 2025
- Average winter snowfall days sourced using World Weather Online on 29th September 2025
- Average winter snowfall (cm) sourced using World Weather Online on 29th September 2025
- Pubs with a real fire sourced using Use Your Local on 26th September 2025
- Woodland cover in the local authority sourced using the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs: Map of % woodland on 26th September 2025
- The number of easy hikes within 10 kilometres of the city/town sourced using All Trails on 26th September 2025
- The number of Christmas market days sourced using the official website of each event holder, where possible, on 29th September 2025
- The number of Christmas market stalls sourced using the official website of each event holder, where possible, on 29th September 2025
We calculated a normalised score out of 10 for each factor in each location, with each factor given equal weighting.
To determine the best Christmas markets, we calculated a normalised score out of 10, considering the number of stalls and the duration of each location’s market, with each factor given equal weighting.
To determine the best places to see snow in winter, we calculated a normalised score out of 10 for snowfall (cm) and snow days in each location, with each factor given equal weighting. This was used to rank each location on the likelihood of seeing snow.
