The UK's best winter road trips

Winter is coming to a close and spring is on the horizon. You may be waiting for the weather to warm up before you start thinking about 2023 holiday plans. However, February can be an excellent time of year to travel – especially in the UK – and can provide a much-needed respite from those winter blues. 

Think about it. Fewer crowds, beautiful sunsets, and – if you're lucky – snowfall. It's a romantic time of year – the days are short, the nights are long and the promise of spring is calling. It's the perfect time of year to explore the countries' rich heritage and engross yourself in local culture. We're all for it!

(There's even talk in the news that a winter vacation could be cheaper than heating your house! Just saying…)

So pack your woollies and grab a flask of coffee.  We've put together three memorable excursions to make before the season draws to a close.

Trust us – you'll be warming to the idea in no time. 

1. North Yorkshire – from Pickering to Whitby

Yorkshire is home to some of the most memorable landscapes in the UK. And while you might be tempted to hibernate through the winter, it's a fantastic time of year to visit this beautiful part of the UK.

This trip begins at the southern perimeter of the North York Moors and the North Riding Forest Park in a town called Pickering. This quaint market town boasts some impressive mediaeval history.

Examples include the 12th-century Parish Church decorated with 15th-century wall paintings, as well as Pickering Castle, which was built to fend off the Scots and the Danish Vikings. 

Next, head up towards Dalby Forest via Thornton Dale on the A170 to view its picturesque thatched cottage the Beck Isle. Once in Dalby Forest (part of the broader North Riding Forest Park) you can explore thousands of acres of thicket packed with walking trails and activities.

Providing you don't get lost in the arboreal expanse, head north towards Goathland – the set for Aidensfield in the TV show Heartbeat – and its eccentric railway station where Harry Potter's Hogwarts Express completes its journey from Platform 9¾.

Finally, make your way towards Whitby beach at the mouth of the River Esk. After all that walking and driving, treat yourself to some fish and chips and a donkey ride. Relax and soak in the views of the lighthouses – as well as Whitby Abbey, which was famously visited by Dracula in Bram Stoker's classic horror novel.

2. Brighton and Sussex

Brighton is a top destination for weekend trips in the sun, but it's an underrated winter wonder too. We suggest you combine it with a mini road trip around Sussex to catch the natural beauty of the south.

In Brighton, you'll find plenty to do, from walking along the beach to exploring the north and south lanes and the Royal Pavilion. There's a range of excellent cafes and restaurants to rival any major city, hence the slogan "London by the sea".

Travel east along the coastline to Saltdean which sits on the crest of the South Downs. Walk down to the shingle beach for breathtaking views of the salt cliffs overhanging the promenade. 

From there, drive up to Lewes and visit Lewes castle and Barbican House Museum. Make sure to take a camera as the views from the castle are amazing. Finally, stop at the Pelham Arms for a locally sourced burger and a pint of their locally brewed ale, Abyss. Heaven!

To top it all off, strap on your walking boots and ramble through the South Downs. The Sussex Downs is listed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and it's easy to see why.

On your walk you may come across the Devil's Dyke, a dry valley formation shrouded in folklore but – in reality – caused by extremely cold temperatures 14,000 years ago!

3. The west coast of Scotland – from Glasgow to the Isle of Skye

Let's be honest, it's practically winter all year round in Scotland. Anytime is a good time to visit this beautiful part of the UK and the world. 

If you're the adventurous type and enjoy camping, this dramatic trip along the west coast of Scotland will no doubt take your fancy. 

The trip begins in Glasgow, from where you head towards Glencoe. Glencoe is recognised as the beginning of the highlands, so if you're into hiking it's a great place to stop off and really appreciate the jaw-dropping views.

Next, head northwest towards Arisaig via Fort William on the A830 – the "Road to the Isles". 

Arisaig is a small settlement with a population of 300. There's very little to do (in a good way), except take in the sea air and greet the locals. Why not take a walk around the idyllic village? It's spotted with pretty white houses set upon white sand.

Next, continue on the A830 past Morar and head to Mallaig, a commercial fishing port. From there you can catch a ferry (with or without your car) over to the Isle of Skye.

Once on the Isle of Skye, you'll be spoiled with stunning scenery and a rich local culture.

You might want to sample their whisky, go kayaking or spot some sea eagles. Or you could take a visit to the Dunvegan castle, the home of the Clan Macleod. Or scale the northeast of the island and visit the Old Man of Storr – a large pillar of rock that affords spectacular views of the island.

Setting off in the winter months might be cold, but Skye is very popular in the summer months, so you'll benefit from smaller crowds and easier access to sites. 

Thinking of bracing the cold this month and taking a trip away? We don't blame you. If you don't own a car – or want to give it a break – you could consider renting a car. Metro Vehicle Hire is situated in the northeast and offers a friendly and professional service. Why not contact us for a quick quote?