There’s nothing better than a cosy weekend away during winter, and thanks to 2020, a staycation is the new vacation. Luckily there are an abundance of locations close to home that make for an idyllic weekend away, so pack your favourite knitwear, boots and woolly hat, because we’ve found five of the best UK breaks that will guarantee you a good time.
DUNDEE
The City of Discovery is always top of our list to explore and there’s no better time to visit. This UNESCO City of Design will forever provoke creativity and has a warm buzz to the city thanks to the beautifully colourful streets and window displays. Remember to take a walk up the multicoloured brick road that is Castle Street while you’re there.
Shop Local
Take a stroll down to V&A Dundee this winter to explore Scotland’s first design museum and enjoy the Tea Green Pop Up Design Store, featuring 30 of Scotland’s best independent designers from 19 November 2020 – 31 January 2021. There’s an array of treats for you to choose from, from ceramics and illustration to jewellery and textiles. And, if you’re on the hunt for the perfect gift, you might just find it here and be able to support some incredibly talented designers and makers at the same time.
Treat Yourself
Indulge in some Yu Time, take a dip in the pool and relax and unwind with a rejuvenating treatment at Yu Spa at Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa.
Get a Blowout
Before heading out for a delicious meal (Forgan’s in Broughty Ferry, St Andrews Brewing Co., Rancho Pancho or Rishis are always top of our list) treat yourself to the famous Haus Blowout at Haus Studio on Castle Street. Is there any better excuse to get glammed up and go out with the best-styled hair of your life? Trust us, you deserve it.
EDINBURGH
From Old Town to New Town, there’s something magical about Scotland’s capital in winter. Their famous Edinburgh’s Christmas celebrations may have gone virtual this year but there’s still plenty to enjoy when visiting the historic city.
Tantalise your taste buds
The Fudge Kitchen can be found nestled in the streets of the Royal Mile, head towards the Scottish Parliament and you’re walking in the right direction. Watch as their delicious fudge is made in the shop and take away some to enjoy later. It’s our favourite indulgent spot in the city.
Lights, Candy Canes & Penguins Rock
Yes, that’s right, Christmas Nights are back at Edinburgh Zoo until 3 January. Discover twinkling lights, candy canes, nutcrackers and stunning projections as you embark on a magical journey to the North Pole. A spectacular light trail will guide you through the zoo, taking you through Penguins Rock by moonlight and into the enchanted ice forest on your way to Santa’s workshop.
A Sunday Feast
Because who doesn’t eat a Sunday roast before 6pm? At Hawksmoor, you’ll be able to indulge on a slow roast rump served with all the trimmings - we wouldn’t go anywhere else for our Sunday roast in Edinburgh. We promise it won’t disappoint.
And, if you’re looking for somewhere to stay in the heart of Edinburgh, then our Edinburgh hotels are the perfect place to rest your head and get a dreamy night’s sleep.
GLASGOW
Voted the friendliest city in Scotland, you’ll be perfectly placed at our Apex City of Glasgow Hotel to explore Glasgow and all it has to offer this winter. Heading into the West End of Glasgow for a day of culture and a delicious brunch is always at the top of our list.
Experience some culture
Situated in the West End of Glasgow, a visit to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a must. Our favourite is Sophie Cave’s Floating Heads installation – remember to look up as you enter and don’t forget to discover Sir Rodger the elephant, who can be found within the 22 galleries. Kelvingrove is free to enter, you just need to book a ticket in advance.
Enjoy pancakes, waffles and eggs every way
Whilst in the west end The Brunch Club is the perfect pit-stop thanks to their all-day brunch menu. With waffles, granola bowls, eggs that come served every way possible and the fluffiest pancakes on the menu – we can’t think of a better place for you to recharge during your adventures!
A drive through – Christmas edition
Turn your engines off and enjoy a night of entertainment at the Parking Lot Social, bringing you all your favourite Christmas events to one socially safe place. From your favourite festive movies to party nights to that all-important panto. Christmas might be different this year, but we don’t have to miss out on all the things we love.
LONDON
There’s really nothing quite as magical as a winter city break in London. The capital becomes a beautifully twinkling city with plenty to explore and enjoy. Disclaimer - whilst there’s no ice rinks this year, and no Winter Wonderland, there’s still plenty to see, do and get you in the festive mood. Our London hotels are ideally situated in the heart of the capital and make the perfect base for your getaway.
Lights, Camera, Action
Embark on a Christmas lights trail like no other as London has had a festive makeover. Head to Oxford Circus for a nostalgic PlayStation takeover, Carnaby Street is lighting up its cobbles streets with positivity, the Regent Street Angels are back and we’ve never been happier to see them, oh and let’s not forget Covent Garden’s 60ft Christmas tree decorated in all its glory. Which display will be your favourite? Don’t forget to take a stroll past the shop windows of Harrods and Selfridges too, their window displays get more and more creative every year.
Wrap up warm
Head to Kew Gardens and discover a glittering tunnel of bells, giant illuminated seed heads and majestic trees wrapped in lights on your way to the dazzling treetop waterfall where beams of light interplay in a breath-taking aerial dance. Kew Gardens Enchanting winter trail is worth getting wrapped up for.
Dine in an Igloo
Indulge and celebrate the festive season in an igloo at Somerset House. Taking private dining to a whole new level, it’s the perfect place for some escapism this winter for lunch, afternoon tea or dinner. We recommend you book in advance because their igloos will book up fast!
BATH
This World Heritage site is full of history to soak up and enjoy. And the festive time brings an added level of beauty thanks to the twinkling lights and seasonal smells that drift through the air from the local cafes and restaurants.
The Wellbeing Destination
Designed as a destination to relax and unwind since Roman times, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some R&R time. When staying at our luxury Apex City of Bath Hotel, we highly recommend taking a dip in our heated pool before soaking up the relaxing atmosphere on our heated poolside loungers.
Explore
Take a walk around the city and you’ll find heritage attractions, iconic sights and plenty of spots to stop for a bite to eat. No visit to Bath is complete without popping into Sally Lunn’s. Just steps from the Roman Baths, Sally Lunn’s sits within one of the oldest houses in Bath and serves the famous local delicacy, the original Sally Lunn bun. Here you’ll be able to indulge in some authentic historic dishes’ morning, noon and night. Arrive before 6pm and you’ll be able to venture into the original kitchen Sally herself used to create the first Bath bun in the museum downstairs.
We hope you'll join us for a winter break in London, Bath, Edinburgh, Glasgow or Dundee soon!
