From walking in a winter wonderland to taking in the sheer beauty of snowy and frosty landscapes, ‘tis the season to wrap up warm and enjoy nature’s latest show.
So, for those keen to explore wintry wonders, here are a few suggestions for some top spots for a winter visit.
Ponies in the Snow…
Explore the New Forest National Park, in Hampshire, and Lyndhurst the ‘capital’ of the National Park on the Lyndhurst Parish Walk, a 8.4-mile circular route. Stop off at the iconic Bolton’s Bench where you will be welcomed by the famous New Forest wild ponies. Elsewhere in the New Forest, Whitefield Moor offers some spectacular seasonal scenery during the winter months with two trails from the car park.
Clifftop rambles and winter wildlife in East Yorkshire
Summer sees the coastal cliffs of East Yorkshire come alive with nesting sea birds, earning the RSPB Bempton Cliffs nature reserve the nickname of “Seabird City’. With seabirds largely departed, the coastal clifftop paths may not seem like the place to be for a winter wander, but while a quiet time of year, the bracing cliff top walks are probably the best in Yorkshire. Along with great views, there is winter wildlife to spot, too, including short-eared and barn owls on the nearby fields. Further south Flamborough Head, with its spectacular chalk cliffs, arches and caves, is also a great place for a coastal stroll and a spot of sea-watching.
Winter Wanderlust
Head for almost anywhere in the Lincolnshire Wolds, and you’ll be hard pressed not to find a walk to suit, whatever the season, but a dusting of snow, or a frosty morning, certainly adds to the charm. There are plenty of trails to choose from, including these top six suggestions, or simply take time to enjoy gentle rolling hills and hidden valleys.
And finally… plan some festive footsteps
It’s never too early to start seasonal planning, and for those looking to blow away the Christmas cobwebs and get outdoors during the festivities, Visit Hampshire has put its own spin on the famous The Twelve Days of Christmas song by coming up with The Twelve Walks of Christmas. From ‘On the twelfth day of Christmas Visit Hampshire gave to me… 12 Deer are Grazing’ to ‘6 Jane Austen Novels…’, walks range from flat circular pushchair friendly routes to more adventurous routes offering hilly climbs and stunning views.
