Escape from the busy city life of London to a cosy Christmas retreat; here are the best countryside destinations for your family this festive season 

Amazing countryside destinations to check out during the holidays…

There is simply nothing better than taking off on a long countryside break at this time of year in the UK. The British scenery is nothing short of magnificent with the cold crisp air nipping at your nose and everyone getting excited over the prospect of wrapping up warm to go on long country rambles. With Christmas around the corner, there is no better time than the present to head off on a countryside retreat with the family and getting some real R&R. Our friends over at Wilderness Reserve have listed their five top cosy countryside locations to escape to this Christmas. 

COTSWOLD’S

The Cotswold’s is one of the most visited and most loved countryside destinations in the UK – and it’s easy to see why. With the beautifully quaint towns and villages nestled across this countryside, it really feels as though you have stepped back in time and can fully relax and enjoy this area without the pressures of daily life. There are a number of lovely country pubs which offer a Christmas Dinner set around a roaring fire, so you don’t have to slave over the kitchen stove.

 SUFFOLK

Suffolk is known for its wonderfully English houses and quaint villages and towns – set near the coast you can also take a trip to the beach which offers some stunning coastal walks. Why not head to Lavenham and explore the history of this fabulous village, or head to Southwold coast for a real Christmas sea-side experience complete with fantastic fish and chip restaurants sprinkled along the coastline, that’s if you don’t fancy a turkey dinner.

DEVON

Devon is a county of great contrasts, with two stunning coastlines, two National Parks and five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty- you will hardly be stuck for things to do with the family over the Christmas break. Why not visit the historic village of Croyde which is located close to some fantastic farmland cosy pubs and historic places of interest.

CUMBRIA

Located north-west and famous for the fabulous Lake District National park, Cumbria offers so much to visitors that you really will be stunned by the natural beauty of this place. Cumbria offers something to all visitors young and old, those seeking adventure or peace and quiet- with its history, the landscape of mountains and lakes and much more.

HARROGATE, YORKSHIRE

Harrogate is a beautiful town located in the rugged county of Yorkshire where a short drive away are some fantastic rural countryside walks through rock formations, the famous moors and many more Yorkshire destinations. Harrogate itself boasts some fantastic attractions such as the Harrogate Turkish baths, the famous Bettys Tearoom for some delicious cakes and then there’s also an assortment of other pubs, restaurants and bistros to take your fancy.