W inter in the UK is almost magical - think frosted landscapes, twinkling fairy lights and brisk walks through stunning scenery. While larger towns and cities bustle with shoppers and tourists, smaller villages offer a quiet, serene escape, perfect for a winter wander.

With picturesque views, characterful charm and welcoming pubs, these villages are especially enchanting in the winter, inviting you to warm up after a crisp walk with a comforting drink by the fire.

Just a few minutes' drive from Carnoustie, Barry Village is a charming coastal spot with traditional stone cottages, quiet lanes, and scenic beaches. Winter walks along the coast are invigorating, and the village feels peaceful and welcoming with local pubs featuring roaring fires and local Scottish charm.

After spending the day exploring, retreat to the Carnoustie Hotel and Spa , where comfort, warmth and seasonal dining await.

Hawkshead, Lake District

Recommended Package - Lake Windermere Spa Hotel Stay

Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, Hawkshead charms with cobbled streets, traditional cottages and scenic walking paths that set the scene in the winter. With Lake Windermere just a short distance away, the village is the perfect base for a day out, offering cosy pubs and cafes to warm up after a crisp walk.

Like something out of a watercolour, Hawkshead is wonderfully photogenic, so don't forget your camera! Make a break of it with our stays at the Lakeside Hotel and Spa , just a stone's throw away.

Step back in time in the medieval village of Lavenham, Suffolk, where crooked timber-framed houses and quiet streets create a storybook winter scene. Wander through the lanes dusted with frost, pop into local tea rooms or enjoy a cosy lunch in a traditional pub.

Just a short drive away, we offer great little breaks at The Mill Hotel in Sudbury, making it easy to combine a restful countryside escape with a visit to this charming village.

Have you ever experienced the seaside in winter? Shanklin, on the Isle of Wight, is a coastal village brimming with charm. Swap countryside walks for seaside strolls, roast dinners for warming local fish suppers, and rolling hills for frosty sea views.

A truly atmospheric experience, a winter coastal break is not to be missed. At Great Little Breaks, we make it easy with stays at Luccombe Manor Country House Hotel , including ferry access and dinner packages, so you can focus on exploring the local area.

A short stroll away from the Cotswold House Hotel and Spa , Chipping Campden is a beautiful historic market village with golden-stone cottages, an old-world high street, and plenty of character. In winter, the quiet streets, festive lights and welcoming local shops and tearooms make it perfect for relaxing strolls and cosy afternoons.

After a day of exploring the village and surrounding countryside, return to Cotswold House Hotel and Spa to enjoy hearty dining, wellness facilities and the warmth of a country-house retreat.

Clovelly, North Devon

Recommended Package - Devonshire Retreat

Clovelly, within easy reach of the Saunton Sands Hotel in North Devon, is a dramatic, cobbled fishing village on the cliffs of the coastline. Winter brings crisp sea air, fewer crowds, and the perfect opportunity to wander the streets, watch the waves and soak in the views.

After a day or exploring the coast, retreat to Saunton Sands Hotel for coastal comfort, seasonal meals and a peaceful evening by the fire.

Castleton, Peak District

Recommended Package - Country House Stay in Cheshire

Nestled in Hope Valley, Castleton is a quintessential Peak District village with stone-built cottages, narrow lanes and moorland hills all around, which is especially magical in the winter when light snow dusts the landscape.

After your countryside adventures, unwind at the nearby Hollin House Hotel and Restaurant , where comfort, good food and warmth await after a chilly day out.

Skipton, North Yorkshire

Recommended Package - Skipton Yorkshire Market Town Stay

With its historic castle, market streets, canal and old-town charm, Skipton makes a lovely winter base. A town, not a village, it doesn't miss out on any of the peace and character, combining heritage, scenic riverside and rural areas.

Stay at the Skipton Hotel to enjoy comfortable accommodation, hearty meals, and a convenient base for exploring both town and countryside on a UK winter break.

Hay-on-Wye, Powys

Recommended Package - Brecon Beacons Market Town Stay

Set on the edge of the Brecon Beacons, Hay-on-Wye is a charming Welsh village best knwon as the UK's "town of books." In the winter, its narrow streets lined with independent bookshops, antique stores and cafes glow with a welcoming warmth, while riverside walks add a peaceful atmosphere.

After a day browsing books or exploring the countryside, cosy up at The Swan at Hay for a restful stay combining culture, nature and charm.

Portloe, Cornwall

Recommended Package - 5 Star Cornish Walking Break

Portloe is a beautifully unspoilt fishing village on Cornwall's south coast, tucked into a steep, sheltered cove that feels wonderfully peaceful in winter. With traditional cottages, dramatic coastal scenery and cliffside paths, it's the perfect place for wintery seaside walks.

The village's timeless charm makes it an ideal winter escape. Stay at The Lugger Hotel , set right beside the water, where warm hospitality and coastal dining provide the perfect base.

From peaceful countryside walks to frosty seaside breaks, these quintessential UK villages sparkle under the winter sun with the promise of characteer, charm and roaring fires in local pubs. Make your next Great Little Break the epitome of cosy adventure with a trip away to one of these wonderful UK villages.