Want to actually enjoy your break? Avoid the big names. Look at Norfolk, Suffolk, or the Yorkshire Wolds—places everyone forgets exist. They’re cheaper, less crowded, and often have better cosy pubs.
Consider a house swap with a friend who lives in a different city. It’s chaotic, but you get a fully stocked kitchen and insider tips. Just don’t judge their towel choices.
Or go full weird: book a narrowboat for the night. You’ll freeze, but you’ll also have a story about almost capsizing while opening a bottle of cheap Cava.
What About The Weather? (The Elephant In The Room)
Look, it’s the UK in winter. The weather will be mediocre at best. Expect rain, fog, and the kind of wind that makes you question God’s plan. But here’s the trick: lean into it.
Pack a waterproof coat with pockets for hand warmers. Find a pub with a real fire. Accept that your “sunrise hike” will be a grey mist of regret. Once you stop fighting the drizzle, it actually gets cosy.
Irony note: the best New Year I ever had was spent in a leaky barn in Wales, playing board games with strangers. Britishness is just making do, isn’t it?
Best New Year breaks for families – celebrate 31 December with the kids
