Although the winter solstice (and the shortest day of the year) has come and gone, midwinter can still feel a little bleak.
It's no surprise that a lack of sunlight and cold temperatures – as well as the so-called Blue Monday – can lead to the winter blues. But while staying in and taking some time to hibernate can help, it's also been proven that vitamin D, aka the 'sunshine vitamin' can help with mood regulation.
So head outside and enjoy the wild and wonderful landscape. Whether you prefer coastlines or mountain peaks, be inspired by these rejuvenating places to help you shake off that midwinter lethargy.
- Science proves listening to nature boosts your wellbeing and happiness. Here's why...
- Half of dog owners say their mental health has soared thanks to their canine companions
- The world’s best cure for mind and body is all around us – it’s water, say scientists
Best UK destinations to beat the winter blues
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Wales
On sunny winter days, the brightness of the ocean is almost blinding, rejuvenating the light-starved body. Long walks along clifftops and across wide sandy beaches help blow the winter blues away.
Atlantic grey seals are plentiful along this coast – 5,000 thereabouts (find out how to watch them safely with our seal watching guide). From Pen Cemaes to Strumble Head and Marloes Bay, observing them is an exercise in mindfulness.
The Lizard, Cornwall, England
This wild and exhilarating place is Britain’s most southerly peninsula; the next landfall due west is Newfoundland. In storms, the Atlantic crashes on rocky headlands and spills over harbour walls with thrilling force.
Winter storms transmit their energy to the human body, dispelling lethargy. Taste the sea salt and feel the damp spume on your face. The winds and foaming seas will shake you alive.
Get active in the outdoors this winter
- What muscles does walking tone?
- Considering Couch to 5K? Here’s everything you ACTUALLY need to get started
- Why is the first part of a run the hardest?
Cairngorms, Scotland
For the best chance of finding light-giving snow, head for the Cairngorms National Park in the north of Scotland. Its soaring peaks are often covered in snow or at least marbled in frost in winter. It's no surprise that it's one of the UK's best destinations for snowsports and winter wildlife watching.
With snow-bright mountains falling away at your feet and nothing above your head but a block of blue, you’ll feel utterly alive.
The Mournes, County Down, Northern Ireland
CS Lewis claimed the otherworldly Mourne Mountains inspired Narnia. Heading through Donard Forest alongside Glen River and up to Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland’s highest mountain, you can forest bathe, breathe in the ozone of tumbling water, see the light of the Irish Sea and, perhaps, a covering of ‘Narnian’ snow.
- Best walks in Northern Ireland
- Virtual escapes: the most spectacular and inspiring outdoor films about the UK's mountains
Peak District, Derbyshire, England
Seek out the stone circles, chambered tombs and bowl barrows of the Peak and sit a while with our ancient ancestors.
- Best walks in the Peak District
- Fairytale villages of the Peak District – the 10 prettiest places in Britain's most popular national park
The Neolithic and Bronze Age people sought out high places with panoramic views – The Nine Ladies at Stanton Moor, Minninglow and Arbor Low – and their stone circles pay homage to the circular nature of life.
Rimac Nature Reserve, Lincolnshire, England
Rimac is a place of winter joy. The great expanse of sea, sand and dunes feel desert-like; distant Lowry stick-figures are silhouetted against sparkling water on bright days.
The dazzling orange of sea buckthorn fills the backshore with colour. Pale geese pass over in formation, calling into the yellow light of dusk. It’s a place to lose yourself in the winter seascape.
More outdoor inspiration
