Winter Days in Great Britain

A surprising number of Americans go out of season to visit Great Britain,  and if you are prepared for the nippy weather, there is certainly lots to do.  Many places put their shutters up and close for the winter season.  I rather enjoy the shorter, colder days and we have countless places of interest, be it a stately home, historic building, museum, wildlife centre or a beauty spa.   Here are some of my suggestions and of course, you must always carry a brolly  (umbrella).  

I wouldn’t drive – petrol is $10.00 a gallon.  Do Great Britain by rail and you see something of the British countryside.  British Railways was broken up and sold to 25 different companies.  Up the West Coast, is now operated by Virgin Rail, and up the East Coast, the Northern Company.  Both do a good job, but I prefer Virgin which is the one I use to go home on.   I would rail one way on an itinerary, and fly back, or go up and down both coasts.  You must reserve a seat otherwise it’s a-free-for-all trying to get one.  Travel first class if you can afford it and remember that the best price is when you book way ahead. Book last minute and you pay through the nose.

Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh

Go on the train from London, a lovely journey.  This is closed when the Queen is in residence so check before you go.  Stay overnight and visit York on the way back south.

The Castle Museum, York

Outstanding folk museum of Yorkshire life over the last four centuries.  This remains a wonderful medieval town.  Attend a service in the cathedral which is 1000 years old.  Keep in mind that there are cobblestone streets so ladies, wear flat shoes.

Jodrell Bank, Cheshire

Cheshire is the home of the first and largest of the two giant radio telescopes which came into operation in 1957 to track Russian and American satellites and space probes.   Fascinating space and astronomy exhibition with working models are available to visit.

Durham Castle and Cathedral

The castle and cathedral together are a magnificent sight.  The castle was the Bishop of Durham’s fortress until 1831 and it now houses University College.  The little Norman chapel is lovely and royalty has been entertained there since 1322.  The cathedral is the finest Norman building in Europe.

Hadrian’s Wall, Northumbria

The famous 73 mile long northern bastion of the Roman Empire built in the second century as a defense against the fierce Scots across the border is known as Hadrian's Wall. This runs right across England, from Wallsend near the mouth of the Tyne to Bowness on the Solway Firth.  

St. Michael’s Mount, Cornwall

Half a mile from the shore at Marazion and connected by a causeway at low tide lies St. Michael's Mount.  This was built as a monastery by Benedictine monks from Brittany and it bears a striking resemblance to Mont Saint Michel off the coast of France.

Althorp, Northampton

Althorp has been home of the Spencers since 1508. The Earl Spencer is the father of Princess Diana. Fabulous collection of old masters paintings, priceless china and furniture are available here to see.   The tea room serves wonderful scones and home-made cakes.

Wisley Garden, Near Ripley, Surrey

This is the gem of the Royal Horticultural Society.  This garden demonstrates the best of British design, rock gardens, pools, waterfalls, fruit and vegetable gardens, greenhouse displays - lots to see even in winter.  If you are a gardener, this is a must see as they have great tours and classes.

Eton College, Berkshire

The ancient town of Eton revolves around the school founded by Henry VI in 1440.  Visitors can visit the Lower School and the Chapel, and the Upper School where various famous scholars have carved their names on the desks.  People put their son’s name on the waiting list for admission before the child is even born.  

The Devon Shire Horse Centre, Yealmpton, near Plymouth

Life on a traditional Devon livestock farm worked with shire horses is demonstrated on this 60 acre farm. The shires and their foals are splendid to watch, and a great place to take children.  Lovely garden and produce centre, and cream teas.

Slimbridge Wildfowl Trust, Gloucester.

The Severn Wildfowl Trust is home to the largest and most comprehensive collection of wildfowl in the world, some reside all year with others coming and going. Some 73 acres of landscaped ponds, lakes and paddocks, observation towers and hides give you a close look at the more wary bird species.  There is a permanent exhibition centre for visitors.

Great Britain has a great train and bus system so you don’t need a car for most of the excursions.     Just remember that in Winter, we only get 5 hours of daylight, so you must plan your trips with this in mind.  It is always grey and gloomy skies. 

Maureen Jones

Maureen Jones is president of All Horizons Travel at 160 Main Street. Members of her staff are experts in business travel, cruises, and all types of leisure.