W ith the colder weather on our horizon, your summer holiday may now be a distant memory. Whilst you may have had fun in the sun, it’s time, however, to cast your thoughts ahead to the coming months and how you’re going to spend your winter. Although it may be tempting to stay indoors, seeking refuge in a blanket beside the fire, there’s a number of different places for you to travel to along the south west coast this winter.

The South of England has a reputation for being a gorgeous holiday destination, specifically throughout the summer. However, it is just as beautiful in the winter, with a touch of frost enchanting those who visit. So, as the seasons begin to change, cast your thoughts ahead to planning a cheap winter getaway in the South West, with this helpful guide offering you some inspiration for your next break!

The South West is notorious for its plethora of walks, whether that be circular routes, clifftop footpaths or meanders through the lush woodland. You may have become familiar with these walks during the summer, enjoying the leaves fluttering on the trees due to the warm breeze and the sight of the flowers growing in amongst the green grass. However, the cooler climate that accompanies winter means that your surroundings will also begin to change. So, winter is a fantastic time to reacquaint yourself with the South West landscape.

Walks are a wonderful activity, especially if you’re looking at visiting the South West. From National Trust routes around the grounds of a stately home to uncovering ruins after a scramble up the hill, a walk is a great, free way to spend an afternoon. During the colder months, wrap up warm and choose a pair of sturdy boots in case you face some adverse weather conditions, but also make sure to take your time to soak up the beauty that the South West has to offer.

Organisations such as the Torbay Coast & Countryside Trust arrange organised walks throughout the year, offering you the opportunity to look at some of the local wildlife during winter . Whereas resources such as the South West Coast Path offer you guidance on routes if you’re looking to have a little more freedom whilst roaming the countryside!

There’s no better way to pursue protection from the unpredictable British weather than seeking solace in a cosy pub or restaurant. Fortunately, the South West has a large range of these, each offering something slightly special. Whether you decide to dip into one of these establishments following a walk, or because you’re after a hearty bite to eat, you’ll be able to find comfort in one of these places during winter in the South West.

Nestled on the outskirts of Dartmoor National Park, The Cott Inn has a delicious menu, packed with offerings such as comforting pies, sumptuous beef brisket burgers and fresh filets of pan-fried sea bream. The thatched roofed building is packed with charm, making this the perfect destination to spend a cold, winter’s evening.

Nothing screams quaint, countryside pub more than The Three Horseshoes Inn . Here, not only do they offer a selection of delicate, lighter bites such as a mouth-watering Somerset pear, blue cheese and walnut salad, but also a range of main meals to satisfy the insatiable, using a range of locally-sourced ingredients.

It should come as no surprise that one of the biggest reasons that people flock to the South West during the warmer months is to relax on one of the many beautiful beaches that this area has to offer. However, if it’s the waves that you’re interested in catching, then there is no better time to don your wetsuit than in winter! Despite the weather being a bit chillier, you’ll be able to enjoy a surf without the crowds of holidaymakers on the sands.

If you’re just starting out, book a lesson to learn the basics of the water sport. A favourite spot amongst the locals, Fistral Beach is home to the Newquay Activity Centre Surf School , where you can rent out everything you’ll need for an hour on the water. The activity centre has over 20 years of experience in the industry and an award-winning status. Aside from surf lessons, the activity centre also offers bodyboarding, coasteering, SUP and kayaking lessons, allowing you to feel proficient on the water. Elsewhere, the neighbouring beach of Perranporth has a fantastic school. “Surfing is an invigorating and exhilarating sport and, with the right tuition, can be easy and incredibly enjoyable to learn!” they tell us. Plus, Perranporth’s surf school is long-established, so you’ll feel safe knowing that you’re in good hands.