There are so many beautiful cities in the UK for a romantic, wintery weekend away. Having just come back from a year travelling the world - I'm fully embracing winter this year, as having spent last year in the southern hemisphere, it was all cider and BBQs last Christmas.
This year I want lots of snow, a big coat, a wooly scarf and mittens. I want warm cider and mulled wine - and definitely a few Christmas markets too.
I've already started planning where I'm going to visit in the next few months - so here's the final cut:
GLASGOW
More info: www.peoplemakeglasgow.com
Apart from the awesome Christmas shopping on the famous "style mile" - Glasgow also has lots of lovely festivities on offer. I like getting away from London, and a weekend in Glasgow feels like a proper little weekend break (it is a whole different country after all). There is a Christmas market on offer in St Enoch's Square, an open-air ice rink opening on 23rd November and even a big Christmas lights switch on - so all my boxes are ticked. And don't forget all those lovely men with Scottish accents!
BIRMINGHAM
More info: www.visitbirmingham.com
Birmingham might not be the most obvious choice for a weekend break, but the city has some great indoor shopping facilities (oh hello there, Bullring!) and they put on a pretty fantastic Christmas market, that lasts about a month. Birmingham is also pretty cheap compared to nearby southern cities, so you can treat yourself to a 4* or 5* hotel at a fraction of the price you'd pay in other nearby cities.... which means it's a pretty easy option.
LONDON
More info: www.visitlondon.com
I couldn't make a list of festive destinations without mentioning my hometown, London. This is where I'll be spending the most time this winter, so I'll be taking complete advantage of everything this wonderful city has to offer. I'm particularly excited for Hyde Park Winter Wonderland (it's always been one of my favourites!) and the hot cider they have on sale there. When the snow starts falling, a simple walk around the Embankment is just stunning.