For Icy Wild Swimming On A Secluded Beach: Hotel Meudon, Cornwall
If you’re keen to brave the elements whatever the season, pack your dry robe and check in to this hidden hotel perched on a clifftop not far from Falmouth. The star attraction is the hotel’s very own private beach and its eight acres of lush tropical gardens. Hardy winter guests make a beeline to kayak up the Helford to the Frenchmen’s Creek made famous by Daphne du Maurier. But what’s really magic in winter is the hotel’s traditional Boxing Day swim at its secluded cove. After the dip, hotel staff await, greeting swimmers with hot water bottles, mince pies, hot chocolate and mulled wine. Book it.
For Wintry Walks And Freestanding Baths: Artist Residence, Oxfordshire
Winter in this handsome thatched manor house is a cosy time. Whether wrapping up warm for a bracing walk around the local lakes or settling in to play boardgames by the open crackling fire in the bar, guests feel right at home here in the colder months. Interiors are on the eccentric side; think one-off artworks, vintage furniture and inglenook fireplaces. Another highlight is the freestanding bathtubs, designed for long decadent soaks in winter months. Quirky style, quality time. Book it.
For The Best Hotel To See January Snowdrops: The Painswick, Gloucestershire
There’s an awful lot to like about a wintry minibreak in the Cotswolds, especially if staying at this picture-perfect Palladian pad in the chocolate box town of Painswick. If you can, book your stay for late January and visit the Rococo Gardens when the famous snowdrops burst into flower. It’s one of the largest naturalistic plantings of snowdrops in the country and a sight to behold. The boutique hotel has 17 bedrooms, two spa treatment rooms and umpteen cosy sitting rooms with fires just made for curling up with a good book and an even better hot chocolate. Dogs welcome. Book it.
For Log Fires And Fine Dining: Grove of Narberth, Pembrokeshire
No matter how cold it is outside, there’s always a warm feeling in Grove of Narberth, the luxury hotel hidden in the peaceful rolling Narberth hills. In recent years, the estate has scooped more than its fair share of awards due to its off-the-scale food, homely atmosphere, charming staff and décor. Guests could be forgiven for just drifting between mealtimes and hunkering down under chunky blankets. It’s the perfect antidote to busy life. For those after more vigorous action, there’s plenty to explore nearby from Pembrokeshire Castle and Preseli Hills to the nearby seaside town of Tenby. Book it.
For Spoiling Festivities Over Advent: The Retreat at Elcot Park, Berkshire
Come rain or shine, there’s loads to do at this deeply civilised boutique hotel near Kintbury. Popular with well-heeled locals and Londoners, this spa hotel is where to stay (and play) whatever the weather. There are two good restaurants and a bells-and-whistles spa with both an indoor and an outdoor pool. At Christmas, the hotel’s atmosphere becomes even more magical with roaring fires aplenty, twinkly lights and a packed schedule of festivities. Among others, there is the annual Christmas market, a wreath making workshop, a black-tie winter ball, a New Year’s House Party and a Burns Night special. Never a dull moment. Book it.
