Best Must Try Winter Activities in the UK
Winter is the perfect time to embrace the season's charm, whether you're braving the chill outdoors or prefer to stay cosy indoors. If a trip to a luxury mountain ski resort abroad isn’t on the cards this year, don’t worry, there are plenty of exciting winter activities to enjoy closer to home. From indoor skiing and snowboarding to outdoor skating and hiking, we've got just a few ideas to help you make the most of winter. Dive in and discover fun ways to keep active and enjoy the season!
1. SNOWBOARDING AND SKIING AT INDOOR SNOW CENTRES
If the mountains are out of reach, indoor slopes like The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead, the Chill Factore in Manchester, and the Norfolk Snowsports Club in Norwich, will bring the snow to you, with skiing and snowboarding lessons.
https://www.thesnowcentre.com/
https://www.norfolksnowsports.com/
2. INDOOR SNOW TUBING
A super fun, low-skill activity for everyone to enjoy. Indoor snow centres like Snozone based in Milton Keynes and Castleford West Yorkshire, and Norfolk Snowsports Club in Norwich, have snow tubing sessions where you can have a blast without much equipment.
3. WINTER HIKING AND PHOTOGRAPHY ADVENTURES
Snow-dusted trails in breathtaking locations like the Brecon Beacons, Snowdonia, or the Lake District offer stunning winter hikes and picture perfect scenery, ideal for creating unforgettable memories and Instagram worthy shots.
https://www.breconbeacons.org/things-to-do/walking
https://www.breconbeacons.org/blog/great-activities-to-do-in-winter
4. INDOOR ICE CLIMBING
Try ice climbing at an indoor centre like Kinlochleven’s Ice Factor in Scotland. It’s one of the UK’s few indoor ice walls and a thrilling way to enjoy a unique winter sport safely.
5. ZIP LINING AND AERIAL PARKS
Challenge yourself with aerial adventure courses and zip lines at Zip World in North Wales, home to Europe’s longest zip line—a thrilling ride high above scenic, snow-dusted landscapes. With additional locations across the UK, Zip World offers an adrenaline-packed winter experience wherever you go.
7. CAVING AND GORGE WALKING
Caving in the Brecon Beacons or Gorge walking in the Yorkshire Dales combines adventure and exploration, perfect for thrill-seekers who want something different this season.
https://www.breconbeacons.org/things-to-do/activities/underground-adventures
https://www.howstean.co.uk/outdoor-activities/gorge-walking/
8. FOREST CABIN STAYS WITH STARGAZING
Renting a cabin with friends in the forests of the UK for a cosy stay can be a great experience, especially if the area is known for clear skies and stargazing. Galloway Forest and Snowdonia National Park, are just a couple of places in the UK that offers fantastic views of the night sky.
https://gostargazing.co.uk/regions/dark-sky-park/snowdonia-dark-sky-reserve/
https://www.gloriousgalloway.org/stargazing-in-the-galloway-forest-dark-sky-park
9. MOUNTAIN BIKING ON WINTER TRAILS
Forests like Grizedale in the Lake District or Afan Forest Park in Wales offer thrilling mountain bike trails that are even more exciting in winter.
https://www.forestryengland.uk/grizedale/cycling-and-mountain-biking-trails-grizedale
10. WINTER SURFING IN CORNWALL
Yes, surfing in winter! With proper wetsuits, places like Fistral Beach in Cornwall stay popular with surfers all year round and offer a unique take on a winter adventure.
https://fistralbeach.co.uk/the-surfing-guide-to-newquay/
https://newquayactivitycentre.co.uk/blog/surfing-into-autumn-and-winter/
MAKE THIS WINTER UNFORGETTABLE!
As the chill of winter settles in, the UK transforms into a playground for exciting seasonal activities. From adrenaline pumping adventures such as indoor snowboarding and ziplining, to serene experiences like stargazing in dark sky reserves or even surfing if you dare. There’s something to captivate every kind of adventurer. Whether you're seeking thrilling pursuits or tranquil escapes, these must-try winter activities promise unforgettable memories. So, embrace the season, and make the most of what the UK winter has to offer and let this guide inspire your next adventure.
Have fun. Stay safe!
