BEST PLACES FOR OUTDOOR WINTER ACTIVITIES IN THE UK
The UK offers several incredible locations for outdoor winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding and winter hiking. Here are some of the best places to visit for those and other types winter activities.
Hit the slopes and enjoy unforgettable ski and snowboarding adventures.
SCOTLAND
Cairngorms National Park
Activities: Skiing, Snowboarding, Winter Hiking
Cairngorms National Park has three ski resorts: Cairngorm Mountain, Lecht and Glenshee.
Cairngorm Mountain Resort: Scotland’s highest mountain ski resort, located in the beautiful Cairngorms National Park, is a top destination for winter sports and outdoor adventures. With a funicular railway offering stunning panoramic views, it caters to all skill levels. Here, skiers and snowboarders can enjoy well maintained slopes, a café with picturesque views, equipment rentals, and lessons, with tubing and guided mountain tours, adding extra options for family friendly fun.
All three resorts within Cairngorms National Park has a range of slopes to suit all ages and abilities.
Lecht Ski Centre: Nestled in the Eastern Cairngorms, the Lecht Ski Centre is a welcoming, family friendly ski destination known for its accessible slopes and relaxed atmosphere. At 645 meters high in altitude, this small resort caters to all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. Visitors can enjoy ski and snowboard rentals, lessons from the on-site ski school, and a café with scenic views. With its easy to navigate slopes and supportive environment, the Lecht Ski Centre is a favourite for those seeking a laid-back winter sports experience.
Family friendly resorts within Cairngorms National Park, each with their own ski school and café.
Glenshee Ski Centre: Located in the Scottish Highlands, Glenshee is the UK’s largest ski area that runs across an expansive landscape of four mountains and three valleys. Known as the "Scottish Three Valleys," Glenshee offers diverse terrain for every skill level, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging red and black runs, including the renowned Tiger Run, one of Scotland’s steepest descents. With altitudes spanning 650 to 1,070 meters, the resort promises superb winter sports conditions and panoramic views of the Cairngorms. Glenshee is also well equipped with facilities such as ski & snowboard rentals, a ski school, and cosy cafés to recharge after an exhilarating day on the slopes.
For Hikers: Cairngorms National Park transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-covered trails and breathtaking snowy peaks, ideal for all levels of winter hiking. Known for its dramatic scenery and accessible trails, the park offers a variety of paths, including popular routes around Loch Morlich. This area is especially scenic in winter, with frozen lake views and forested trails, and provides excellent low level options for beginners looking to explore the beauty of the Highlands. Visitors can also explore snowshoeing and cross-country trails, making it a perfect winter destination for families, groups, and solo travellers alike. Its convenient location near major scottish cities such as Perth & Dundee, and with Edinburgh airport being the closest major airport, makes it one of the most accessible and popular ski destinations in the UK.
https://www.cairngormmountain.co.uk/the-ski-area/
https://www.ski-glenshee.co.uk/Winter
https://www.visitcairngorms.com/5-of-the-best-winter-walks-in-the-cairngorms-warming-cafe-included/
Snowshoeing along a scenic snow covered trail.
Ben Nevis
Activities: Winter Hiking, Ice Climbing, Winter Biking (Skiing & Snowboarding are at the nearby Nevis Range Resort)
Ben Nevis, towering at 1,345 meters (4,413 feet) near Fort William in the Scottish Highlands, holds the title of the UK's highest peak. Affectionately known as "The Ben," it draws thousands of hikers, climbers, and adventure seekers all year round. Its rugged paths offer spectacular views and a range of challenges, from the well travelled “Pony Track” for hikers to the demanding North Face routes favoured by seasoned climbers. In winter, Ben Nevis becomes a prime destination for snow sports enthusiasts, offering thrilling experiences in winter hiking, ice climbing, and ski touring amidst breathtaking alpine scenery.
Nevis Range Resort: The Nevis Range Resort, located just outside of Fort William in the Scottish Highlands, is an all year round destination for adventure lovers and families alike. Set against the stunning backdrop of Aonach Mòr, Scotland's eighth highest mountain. In winter, the resort offers a range of ski and snowboarding runs suitable for all abilities, along with the UK’s only mountain gondola, which gives delightful views of the surrounding Highlands.
In addition to winter sports, Nevis Range boasts a world-class mountain bike park, with trails from beginner to expert level. The resort is also known for its hiking trails, including routes leading to the neighbouring Ben Nevis. With cafés, rental shops, and a variety of guided experiences, Nevis Range is the ideal hub for exploring the wild beauty of Scotland.
https://www.visitscotland.com/things-to-do/outdoor-activities/skiing-snowsports
Ski and Snowboarding runs are offered at Nevis Range Resort for all abilities.
Glencoe Mountain Resort
Activities: Skiing, Snowboarding, Winter Hiking
Glencoe, Scotland’s oldest ski resort, is renowned for its steep slopes and outstanding skiing and snowboarding conditions. The resort caters to everyone from beginners to advanced skiers. Beyond skiing, Glencoe is a superb spot for winter walking and hiking, offering stunning views of iconic sites such as the Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) and the Pap of Glencoe.
Nestled in the dramatic Scottish Highlands, Glencoe is celebrated for its rugged landscapes, deep valleys, and towering peaks. Outdoor enthusiasts flock here all year round, drawn by the breathtaking scenery and Scotland’s longest, steepest run—the Flypaper. Winter visitors can enjoy a range of slopes suited to all abilities at Glencoe Mountain Resort, while non-skiers can explore scenic trails or enjoy photography against the backdrop of Buachaille Etive Mòr and surrounding ridges.
Steeped in history, Glencoe is also a fascinating location for those interested in Scottish heritage. With a blend of adventure and tranquillity, Glencoe provides an immersive Highland experience that captivates visitors with its beauty and cultural significance.
A skier carefully descending a steep mountain slope.
Torridon
Activities: Winter Hiking, Climbers, Winter Biking
Torridon, located in the remote Northwest Highlands of Scotland, is a haven for those in search of untamed landscapes and challenging outdoor pursuits. Renowned for its rugged peaks, including Liathach, Beinn Alligin, and Beinn Eighe, Torridon is a top destination for hikers climbers, and mountain bikers to name a few. The area's dramatic scenery features towering mountains, ancient glacial valleys, and serene lochs, making it one of Scotland’s most visually striking and secluded regions.
Torridon is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, such as the red deer, golden eagles, and rare plant species. It offers a variety of walking trails for all skill levels, from iconic hill climbs to coastal paths. Whether exploring the famous Torridon hills or taking in the stunning village and seafront views, visitors will be captivated by the region’s natural beauty, peaceful solitude, and boundless adventure opportunities. Torridon is the epitome of raw, unspoiled nature, offering an authentic Highland experience for those seeking true wilderness.
https://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/torridon-p235981
Small group of winter hikers following a mountain trail.
Winter hikers beside a frozen lake and surrounded by the rugged snow dusted mountains.
WALES
Snowdonia National Park
Activities: Winter Hiking
The snow-capped peaks are perfect for experienced hikers who want challenging winter adventures. Though it’s not a ski destination, Snowdonia offers some of the most beautiful and rugged winter hikes in the UK.
Llanberis Path: The Llanberis Path is one of the most popular and scenic routes to the summit of Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales. Renowned for its accessibility, this path provides a steady, gradual climb, making it a great option for both beginners and advanced hikers. The 9-mile round-trip route begins in the picturesque village of Llanberis, meandering through rolling hills, rugged terrain, and offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys. As you ascend, the path unveils stunning panoramas of the Gwynedd countryside, tranquil lakes, and the dramatic landscapes of Snowdonia National Park.
Although considered one of the easier routes to the summit, the Llanberis Path still requires careful preparation, as the weather in the mountains can change rapidly. The well-maintained path includes several resting points, including the famous Halfway House Café where you can refuel. Upon reaching the summit, hikers are rewarded with spectacular views and the Snowdon Visitor Centre (Hafod Eryri), where you can relax and take in the scenery. Whether you're a first-time adventurer or an experienced mountaineer, the Llanberis Path offers a memorable journey to the top of Wales.
Glyder Fawr: Glyder Fawr, standing at 1,001 meters (3,284 feet) in Snowdonia National Park, is a remarkable mountain ideal for experienced hikers and climbers. Renowned for its rugged beauty and dramatic rock formations, it offers one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in Wales. The mountain’s jagged rock pinnacles and challenging terrain provide a rewarding adventure for those seeking a strenuous climb. At the summit, hikers are treated to panoramic views that stretch across Snowdonia, including stunning vistas of Llyn Ogwen, Tryfan, and even Snowdon itself. It’s a must do for those looking to experience the raw beauty of the Welsh wilderness.
Hikers making their way up through heavy snow.
Tryfan: A challenging adventure for experienced hikers who are well-equipped, Tryfan is one of Wales' most iconic peaks, rising to 918 meters (3,010 feet) in Snowdonia National Park. Known for its rugged character and thrilling routes, Tryfan attracts climbers and hikers alike, offering a unique and exhilarating mountain experience. The mountain’s jagged summit is famous for the twin rock pillars, known as "Adam and Eve" which are a famous feature at Tryfan's summit, where adventurous climbers traditionally leap between them in a ritual said to bestow the "Freedom of Tryfan." This challenging feat is reserved for experienced climbers, as it’s not suitable for beginners.
With no clear path to the summit, the ascent requires scrambling and hands-on climbing, making it one of the few mountains in the UK that demands technical skills. The North Ridge and South Ridge offer varied levels of challenge, both providing beautiful views over the Ogwen Valley and beyond. The North Ridge, in particular, is a favourite for its dramatic exposure and awe-inspiring landscapes. Tryfan is an essential climb for adventurous hikers seeking to experience the raw beauty of Snowdonia and a true sense of achievement.
https://snowdonia.gov.wales/walk/llanberis-path/
https://www.komoot.com/highlight/278122
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/carneddau-and-glyderau/walking-and-climbing-on-tryfan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Y1-cBWlG48
Brecon Beacons National Park
Activities: Winter Hiking and Stargazing
Snow dusted peaks, mist shrouded valleys, and expansive vistas turn this Welsh national park into a serene winter escape, drawing outdoor enthusiasts and seasoned hikers alike. Trails like the challenging Pen y Fan, South Wales’ highest peak, are particularly captivating in the colder months, with crisp air, frost-covered paths, and a peaceful, crowd-free atmosphere.
As an International Dark Sky Reserve, stargazing in the Brecon Beacons offers crystal clear views of constellations, planets and the Milky Way and with minimal light pollution designated stargazing spots such as Usk Reservoir, and The National Park Visitor Centre, makes this a top destination for those wanting to experience the beauty of the night sky in it’s full natural brilliance.
Winter hiking in the Brecon Beacons presents more challenges due to unpredictable weather, colder temperatures, and shorter daylight hours, making preparation essential. Trails can become icy, and visibility can change quickly, so it's important to wear the right clothing, carry navigation tools, and familiarize yourself with your route. Popular trails like the Four Falls Trail and Fan Frynych offer dramatic snow-clad landscapes and breathtaking views. For those seeking a rewarding winter adventure, the Brecon Beacons is a must visit destination.
https://www.breconbeacons.org/blog/great-activities-to-do-in-winter
https://www.breconbeacons.org/things-to-do/activities/stargazing
Rope support enables safer movement across challenging or unstable snow conditions.
ENGLAND
Skiers on the slopes surrounded by pristine snow.
Yad Moss
Activities: Skiing & Snowboarding
Yad Moss, located in the North Pennines, is a hidden gem for winter sports enthusiasts. This volunteer run ski slope offers an authentic, community driven experience for those seeking a more relaxed, off the beaten path destination for skiing and snowboarding. With its beautiful natural setting and stunning snow covered views, Yad Moss comes alive when the weather conditions are right, providing excellent runs for both beginners and more experienced skiers.
While it may not have the large-scale amenities of bigger ski resorts, Yad Moss offers a charming, laid-back vibe with affordable lift passes and a friendly atmosphere. With snow conditions varying throughout the winter, it’s essential to keep an eye on the weather, but when the snow’s good, it’s a fantastic spot for ski enthusiasts who appreciate a quieter, more intimate winter adventure. Whether you're perfecting your turns or just enjoying the crisp mountain air, Yad Moss is a wonderful winter destination in the heart of the North Pennines.
The Lake District
Activities: Winter Hiking, Ice Climbing, Snowshoeing, Winter Biking.
The Lake District, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site, transforms into a winter haven, offering a wide range of outdoor activities perfect for the colder months. Although the Lake District does not have a traditional ski resort, with snow capped peaks, serene frozen lakes, and crisp winter air, the region becomes a paradise for winter walkers, climbers, and adventurers.
Winter hiking in the Lake District is especially magical, with trails offering breathtaking views of iconic lakes like Windermere and Ullswater, framed by the rugged fells. Popular routes like Scafell Pike and England’s highest peak, Helvellyn, provides rewarding climbs with scenic winter landscapes. However, conditions can be challenging, so it's essential to be well-prepared for snowy, icy paths and rapidly changing weather.
For those looking to try something different, winter mountain biking is another exhilarating activity, with several trails open throughout the season. Snowshoeing is also available when conditions are suitable.
The region’s charm also extends beyond any outdoor pursuits. After a day of adventure, visitors can relax in cosy pubs, quaint villages, and luxury lodges, taking in the peaceful, snow dusted surroundings. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a winter enthusiast seeking tranquillity, the Lake District is the perfect destination for a memorable winter getaway.
https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/things-to-do/walking
https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/the-blog/blog-posts/top-tips-for-winter-walking
https://www.adventurehunter.co.uk/tour/winter-climbing-in-the-lake-district/
https://www.wheelwrights.com/winter-lake-district-guide/
The Yorkshire Dales
Activities: Winter Hiking, Stargazing, Caving.
The Yorkshire Dales transforms into a serene and stunning winter oasis, making it a perfect destination for a range of outdoor activities. Winter hiking in the Dales offers endless trails across snow dusted hills, scenic valleys, and rugged limestone paths, providing stunning vistas and peaceful solitude. For those interested in exploring underground, the Dales are famous for their intricate cave systems, with winter caving adventures allowing enthusiasts to discover the magical formations and caverns hidden beneath the landscape.
On clear winter nights, the Yorkshire Dales also becomes an ideal location for stargazing, especially in designated Dark Sky areas such as Malham and Hawes. The minimal light pollution reveals a sky filled with stars, planets, and constellations, creating an unforgettable experience for astronomy lovers. With activities ranging from scenic hikes and thrilling cave tours to mesmerizing stargazing opportunities, the Yorkshire Dales offers a unique winter experience for adventurers of all kinds.
https://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/things-to-do/get-outdoors/stargazing/
Skier ascending a deep snow covered slope.
Winter fun for all ages!
From exhilarating ski slopes and scenic hiking trails, to breathtaking snowboarding runs, the UK offers a wide range of winter experiences for every adventurer. Whether your a seasoned winter sports enthusiast, or a newcomer to the cold winter scene, these destinations have something memorable to offer.
So bundle up, pack your gear, and get ready to make this winter unforgettable with an adventure to the UK’s top winter spots.
Which destination will you explore?
Stay Safe - & Happy Adventuring!
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