Beautiful UK city is just a short trip from London and the perfect winter break
It's home to a stunning cathedral, a variety of restaurants and shops and even a luxury woodland resort - the charming city is a must-visit this winter
If you're thinking of a short hop to the UK this winter but are tired of the old favourites, look no further.
The historic gem of Winchester comes to life in the wintertime, offering an idyllic setting for a festive escape, brimming with charm and history.
Nestled beside its legendary medieval Cathedral, the town bursts into a yuletide celebration that is simply irresistible, according to Country and Townhouse.
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Crowds flock to its Christmas Market yearly, enchanted by the quaint backdrop of this age-old township, enhancing the fairytale experience. With origins tracing back as one of the UK's most ancient settlements, every stroll through Winchester unveils remarkable buildings and storied streets steeped in time.
The Cathedral itself, a treasure of heritage, never fails to captivate visitors and locals with its stunning interior - catching the eye and earning acclaim on TripAdvisor: "The visit to this cathedral was the highlight of the day made all the better by having a guided tour."
Thrifty visitors benefit as well, with one sharing, "I booked tickets in advance through their website, saving £1 each - this ticket is valid for return visits for a year from date of purchase. When we arrived a guide was available pointing out many things we would have missed had we just walked round on our own."
For those keen on immersing fully in nature, Blackwood Forest beckons – Imagine lodging amid the woods, where 60 cabins feature grand windows revealing nothing but the majestic beech trees, as noted by Time Out.
One holidaymaker raved about their stay in Blackwood forest, Hampshire, gushing: "We have recently returned from our mid-week stay at Blackwood forest Hampshire, wow such a lovely peaceful place to stay the cabins actually look like they do on the website - clean, tidy, spacious and homely."
They added: "The hot tub was a huge hit especially on the day it poured with rain! The staff were efficient and friendly and the woodland walks were beautifully set out. We will definitely be coming back - I can't recommend enough."
Back in Winchester, city life offers plenty of buzz with streets lined with an exciting variety of restaurants and shops. When the weather turns chillier, visitors can duck into cosy cafes, providing the perfect escape to warm up and take a breather from sightseeing.
For those considering a weekend getaway within the UK this winter, charming Winchester is shaping up to be an enticing destination.
How to get to Winchester
After arriving into London, take a train from London Paddington to Winchester via Reading. A direct coach service also operates from London Victoria to Winchester, Park & Ride (St Catherines).
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