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City Break

Where’s Best for a UK City Break in Winter?

Many of us spend our winter’s weekends cosied up at home watching films and dreaming of summer; it can be difficult to summon your adventurous side when the nights are dark and the mornings cold. Before you dive under the duvet, take a minute and discover what the nation has on offer. With so many bustling, culture-rich cities in the UK, there’s no reason the colder months shouldn’t be just as exciting as the warmer. Here are three of our favourite destinations for a winter UK city breaks

Oxford in Winter

Oxford
Oxford is world-famous for its prestigious University, which is the oldest in the English-speaking world and has been the study place of many famous scholars and philosophers. Independent colleges are spread across the city, and visitors are welcome to explore the gardens, buildings and chapels of many of these for a few hours each day. Some colleges, including Wadham and Christ Church (the Great Hall in the Harry Potter films), also open their dining halls to the public. 
If you’re looking for a cultural fix, catch a performance at one of Oxford’s many iconic theatres. The New Theatre Oxford hosts Broadway shows regularly, while the Oxford Playhouse is known for its showings of fantastic drama, family shows, dance, live music and more. 
Stay in the heart of the excitement at the Mercure Oxford Eastgate Hotel, which is set inside a beautiful 17th-century coaching inn right in the centre of Oxford. The hotel is practically bursting with heart-warming traditional English features, much like the city itself – what better way to escape the chill of winter?
York
The historic city of York is an excellent choice for a city break any time of year, but the mood is magical in winter. Stroll along Victorian cobbles and discover the majesty of York Minster, the city’s iconic 7th-century cathedral. The cathedral boasts the most extensive collection of medieval stained glass in England – a sight not to be missed!
York is home to some fantastic eateries. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite at lunchtime or a fantastic fine-dining experience you’re sure to find something that suits within the city walls. Winter is the season of eating and drinking, so treat yourself. If the cold is getting the better of you, don’t think twice about hopping into one of many traditional pubs for a specialty cask ale and a spell by the fire.  
If you’re planning a winter break in York and you’re looking for somewhere to stay, there’s nowhere more convenient than the Novotel York Centre Hotel, which sits within a mile of York Minster and the central railway station. After a busy day in the city, guests can warm up with a dip in the heated indoor pool before sinking into a soft bed for a great night’s sleep. 
Bristol
Whether you’re looking for market stalls, crackling log fires or brisk outdoor walks, there’s something for everyone to discover on a wintery weekend break in Bristol.
If you’re planning a trip to Bristol, don’t miss Clifton Village – home to independent shops, cafés, restaurants and a traditional Victorian shopping arcade. Pick up an antique or a piece of handmade jewellery and take in the beautiful architecture.
Embrace the cold with a walk around Castle Park and stop to appreciate the ruins of St Peter’s Church. The park sits on the edge of the river so you can stretch your legs further with a stroll along the water’s edge. There are plenty of spots to stop at in the area, so find somewhere cosy and warm up after your walk. 
If you feel like getting out of the city, cross over Bristol’s iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and head into Leigh Woods National Nature Reserve. The National Trust spot boasts spectacular views across the city and has wide, easy to navigate trails, making it a great option for the whole family.
For modern luxury and convenience during your winter city break, book a stay at the Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel. Set inside a historic Grade II listed building, this hotel boasts an unbeatable city centre location and locally-inspired décor throughout.
Wherever you choose for your UK city break this winter, be sure to check out the Accor Hotels website for all the best deals on excellent hotels. 

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