Quick Winter Adventures
Three seasonally appropriate day trips or easy overnighters
It’s cold, it’s still seemingly still darker than it should be and summer feels like a distant memory, nay, a dream.
And yet weekends must be filled, the children have broken for half term and there are still little adventures to be had, even if winter sun or a ski trip are not on the cards.
Here are three easy destinations in the South of England that are great for a day trip or a night away and combine blustery walks, good food and seeking out cosy corners.
Ramsgate
Hands down one of our favourite winter spots in Kent is Ramsgate. Of course you must brave the weather for a walk along the prom and around the marina before chips and a mushy pea fritter at Pete’s, but there’s also so much more to explore if you’d rather be indoors.
Treasure hunters can lose hours seeking out vintage goodies at Arch 16 and the cavernous Petticoat Lane Emporium, shop the coolest preloved clothing in Thanet at Ramsgate Thrift Store (where you’ll find everything from top end deadstock Stüssy to an amazing 50p bin) and explore the brilliant records on offer at the ever-friendly Vinyl Head.
History buffs can head to Ramsgate Tunnels for some truly unique wartime insights (you can also stay here overnight if you want to experience the tunnels in full effect). And best of all, tech geeks can have a field day by visiting Ramsgate’s TWO museums dedicated to technology and gaming- the equally wonderful This Museum is Not Obsolete and The Micro Museum, conveniently found almost next door to each other (checking opening days/times is essential for both).
Bag one of Ramsgate’s stunning airbnbs to make the most of your visit, allowing you to enjoy dinner and drinks at Seabird in the evening and a takeaway breakfast of kings in the morning from Staple’s Ramsgate outpost.
Oxford
Arguably the easiest winter getaway that involves a guaranteed-to-be-good overnight stay, is a trip to Mollie’s Motel and Diner near Oxford.
Their four person bunk rooms and frequent dinner, bed an breakfast deals make this American-influenced destination one of the simplest and most affordable ways to feel like you have gone on holiday somewhere distant (when it fact it might not be very far at all).
Of course Oxford’s lure isn’t all about Mollie’s cleverly-designed rooms and diner breakfasts… the city’s wonderful museums make it a brilliant destination even if you don’t have the time or budget for a night away.
The Oxford University Museum of Natural History is breathtaking and gives London’s Natural History Museum a serious run for its money (but fortunately isn’t half as busy), while the neighbouring Pitt Rivers Museum is home to a collection of incredible artefacts that will blow your mind. Then there’s The Ashmolean, the University of Oxford’s museum of art and archaeology founded in 1683. While it’s famed for its incredible collection of Egyptian mummies and contemporary art, there’s an almost impossible amount of exciting things to see. Our family favourite being Guy Fawkes’ Lantern, the actual iron lantern that Guy Fawkes was said to be holding when he was arrested in the cellars under the Houses of Parliament in November 1605.
Hastings
The hilly paths of Hastings Country Park make it one of my favourite places to walk on the South coast, whatever the time of year. It features brilliant views, secret beaches and the chance of some seal spotting.
You can either tackle small stretches of it (recommended with children) or walk the full loop root, with options to start from anywhere on the loop, including the main car park or the outskirts of Hastings town centre.
Combine a walk with a cosy pub meal and/or overnight stay at The Cove Fairlight, a charming little spot with a great menu just a few minutes drive (or a 30 minute walk) from the Country Park.
Head into the town Hastings for excellent antique shopping, journey along to St Leonards to enjoy an array of food traders at Heist Market or brave the seafront seating at the legendary Goat Ledge.
Don’t leave without a visit to the free, fascinating Shipwreck Museum, where the charming volunteer guides will happily talk you through the area’s dramatic maritime history.
Happy travels!