ENGLAND

The Cotswolds countryside is known for honey-stone villages, but the real magic often starts where the crowds stop. Beyond the postcard streets, quiet footpaths weave through fields, woodland, and hidden valleys that feel wonderfully untouched. These secret walks in the Cotswolds are perfect for anyone who wants peaceful scenery, fresh air, and routes that still feel like a discovery. Along the way you will pass mossy dry-stone walls, hear birds calling from thick hedgerows,

If The Holiday is your favourite Christmas film, there is a lovely UK town you will want to add to your bucket list, as it lets you feel a bit like Cameron Diaz on a festive escape, even if meeting Jude Law is very unlikely. We recently spent a weekend in this pretty town in Yorkshire with friends, and straight away it felt like stepping into a scene from the much loved Christmas film, especially the sweet village where Cameron Diaz’s character stays. The main cobbled street

Walk through the small streets of this lovely Yorkshire town and you will soon feel surrounded by the influence of writers and artists who helped shape it during the 1970s and 1980s. Set between Halifax and Todmorden, this hidden gem is known for its free spirited feel. It is also a popular place for commuters who work in bigger cities like Manchester and Leeds, bringing in a mix of people that makes it different from many other Yorkshire towns. Photo © Christopher Hilton (

The walk after Christmas Day has become a tradition of its own. It is a great reason to get outside, let children burn off energy, and for adults, a breath of fresh air can help clear tired heads. There are lots of brilliant walks across the UK, but this festive season there is one in particular that is worth knowing about, whether for Christmas time or a peaceful walk later in winter. This hidden gem has everything you could ask for, with lovely woodland views, a range of tr

Tucked away beside the upper stretches of the River Ure, this lovely village is a perfect spot for people who enjoy good food and peaceful surroundings. While many people instantly think of Wensleydale cheese, this charming Yorkshire village has much more to offer visitors than just its famous food. Interestingly, it is one of the few dales that is not named after its river. Instead, it takes its name from the historic market town of Wensley. Photo © Julian Paren ( cc-by-sa

A pretty town in the Cotswolds has introduced new rules to deal with too many visitors. In this town, parking charges have been extended until 8pm to help local people find spaces and to raise extra money from tourists. The village sits beside the River Windrush and is famous for its stone bridges and honey coloured houses. Located in the heart of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the village is also home to a well known model village, the Cotswold Motoring Mu

If you are looking for your next seaside break, this lovely village could be just what you are searching for. Set between Saltburn and Whitby, this historic fishing village is ideal for anyone who enjoys a slow and peaceful walk. With winding cobbled streets leading down to the harbour and rows of cosy cottages painted in red and cream, almost every corner of this beautiful Yorkshire village feels picture perfect. Photo © T Eyre ( cc-by-sa/2.0 ) Once a busy fishing port, th

A Boxing Day walk is a much loved festive tradition for many people, with families wrapped up warm, enjoying winter views and wishing each other Merry Christmas along the way. It is a lovely chance to enjoy the festive feeling before the New Year arrives, while walking past houses decorated with wreaths and glowing fairy lights. Villages feel extra magical at this time of year, and there is one in Greater Manchester that offers some lovely walks during the festive season. Pho

Set at the very northern edge of the Yorkshire Dales, this valley is rich in history, especially stories linked to mining, and is full of interesting tales waiting to be explored. This hidden gem is a beautiful part of the Dales and is home to the River Swale, which is known as the fastest flowing river in England as it winds through green fields and countryside. Hidden within this peaceful landscape is the Tan Hill Inn, the highest pub in England, welcoming walkers and visit

A seaside walking route in Wales has been named the UK’s best Christmas walk, thanks to its beautiful mountain views and nearby cosy pubs. The ranking was created by GO Outdoors using TripAdvisor reviews, average December snowfall figures and festive touches like how close the walks are to welcoming pubs. Using this information, the outdoor retailer produced a list of the top ten places for a refreshing December walk or a gentle stroll after Christmas lunch. Photo © Jeff Buc