Why you shouldn’t stay inside this winter
As the nights draw in and the nation makes a collective decision to crank up the central heating, many of us are choosing an afternoon of mince pies and movies over spending our time outdoors. It may be tempting to stay bundled up inside during the colder months, but heading out into the wintery weather can actually be one of the best ways to ignite your festive spirit.
It may be cold outside, but that’s no reason to stay tucked up indoors. From weekends away in the countryside to exploring Britain’s many bustling retail hubs, there are plenty of reasons to embrace the outdoors this festive season – and we’re breaking some of them down for you today.
1. Make the most of your time off with a weekend away
Whether you’re embarking on a mini weekend break or taking some well-earned annual leave during the Christmas period, there’s no better way to make the most of your days off than with a city getaway. From family city breaks in Newcastle to shopping holidays in London or Edinburgh, exploring popular UK cities at Christmastime gives you an opportunity to be a part of the festivities and make your trip truly special, with a cosy home from home as your base.
2. Get fit and feel festive
For those of us looking forward to a season of mince pies and mulled wine, it can be all too easy to fall out of an exercise routine. Heading out for a run on the frost-lined streets is a less than appealing idea for some, but that’s not to say that winter weather should stop you from staying fit this season. Whether you wrap up warm for a seasonal walk with the family or you try your hand at outdoor ice skating, a winter workout combines fitness with that all-important festive feeling.
3. Explore exciting shopping opportunities
From London’s world-famous Oxford Street to the country’s huge number of exotic open air markets, Britain is a shopper’s paradise. Retail therapy is the perfect way to destress during the busy festive season, and there’s nothing like the excitement that comes with finding that perfect gift. For an indulgent weekend dedicated entirely to Christmas shopping, make the most of the season and head out onto the high street this winter.
4. Experience an authentic Christmas market
German Christkindelmarkts are a tradition the UK has happily adopted in recent years, meaning a visit to these markets is now considered by many Brits to be one of the definitive pre-Christmas activities. With many traders travelling across Europe to bring you the most authentic experiences, wrapping up and heading to a nearby Christmas market promises the next best thing to the original. With streets lined with traditional wooden chalets and colourful fairy lights, you’ll love browsing the broad selection of artisan foods and handcrafted gifts in this festive setting. You can even enjoy a taste of Germany with traditionally made Lebkuchen, and warm up those freezing fingers with a mug of mulled wine!
Bundling up in your finest festive jumper marks the start of Christmas, and exploring the range of seasonal sights, events and activities on offer throughout the UK is the best way to make this Christmas count.
By: Jess Sheldon
Jess Sheldon is a blogger for City Breaks in Newcastle, an avid reader, writer and lover of cocktails and peppermint tea.