Winter Fun for Adults and Kids
The post-holiday winter days in January may be chilly, but the UK offers a range of activities for both adults and kids to make the most of the season. From magical light shows to cosy indoor experiences and invigorating outdoor adventures, here are some great ways to enjoy January in the UK.
1. Alton Towers Lightopia Festival
Alton Towers Resort, normally quiet in winter, comes alive with its magical Lightopia festival, a trail of impressive light installations that immerse visitors in an enchanted world. Lightopia is particularly popular with families, offering a fantastical experience that’s perfect for kids and equally enjoyable for adults. The event typically includes themed displays and light shows synced to music, making it a memorable winter night out.
2. Winter Walks in National Trust Gardens and Parks
The UK’s National Trust properties stay open year-round, offering tranquil walks through historical gardens and parks. Many estates, like Stourhead in Wiltshire and Tatton Park in Cheshire, are transformed by the frost, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. Some sites even host guided winter walks, perfect for families looking to explore the outdoors. These walks offer the chance to enjoy crisp fresh air, discover wildlife, and visit cosy on-site cafes for a warm treat afterward.
3. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay (Into January)
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, one of the largest New Year celebrations in the world, spills into early January with vibrant events that are great for all ages. Adults can enjoy traditional Scottish music, ceilidh dancing, and whiskey tasting events, while families will appreciate the children’s light parade and fireworks. It’s an immersive experience that embraces Scottish culture, providing a fantastic start to the new year.
4. Harry Potter Studio Tour – Hogwarts in the Snow
For a magical winter outing, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter decorates its sets to recreate “Hogwarts in the Snow.” This family-friendly attraction is perfect for Harry Potter fans of all ages, with decorated sets, costumes, and props. Visitors can see the Great Hall decked out in holiday style, watch artificial snow fall over Diagon Alley, and learn about how the magical effects were created.
5. Explore the Science Museum and Natural History Museum, London
London’s Science Museum and Natural History Museum are perfect January destinations, offering free entry and countless exhibits for adults and kids alike. The Science Museum offers interactive displays and IMAX movies that engage visitors of all ages, while the Natural History Museum showcases everything from dinosaurs to deep-sea creatures. January is a good time to visit, as post-holiday crowds are smaller, allowing a more leisurely experience through the exhibits.
6. Ice Skating Rinks in Iconic Locations
In cities across the UK, January is one of the last chances to enjoy seasonal ice skating. Many iconic venues, like the Tower of London, Somerset House in London, and Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens, host temporary ice rinks that stay open until mid-to-late January. Skating in these beautiful surroundings makes for a memorable winter activity, and there are often cosy cafes nearby for hot chocolate and snacks.
7. Visit the Eden Project, Cornwall
The Eden Project in Cornwall offers a unique experience for nature lovers in winter. This indoor tropical paradise is housed in two large biomes, allowing visitors to escape the winter chill and explore the world’s largest indoor rainforest and Mediterranean gardens. January at Eden Project is also a quieter month, making it an excellent time for families and adults to enjoy the educational exhibits, sensory experiences, and seasonal events.
8. York’s Viking Festival
York hosts the Jorvik Viking Festival in late January and early February, a family-friendly event celebrating Viking history. Kids and adults alike can enjoy costumed parades, historical reenactments, and storytelling events. For adults, there are workshops on Viking weaponry and combat, while kids will love the interactive exhibits and storytelling sessions.
9. Seal Spotting in Norfolk and Lincolnshire
January is an excellent month for wildlife lovers to see seals along the Norfolk and Lincolnshire coastlines. At places like Blakeney Point in Norfolk, visitors can take seal-watching boat tours to see these adorable animals and their pups in their natural habitat. It’s a wonderful outdoor activity for families and couples, offering a rare look at wildlife in the colder months.
10. Visit an Indoor Trampoline Park
If the weather is keeping you indoors, a visit to a trampoline park can be a great way for kids (and adults) to burn off energy. Parks like Flip Out and Jump In have locations across the UK and feature interconnected trampolines, foam pits, and obstacle courses. These are ideal for family outings, offering high-energy fun in a safe, indoor environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after outdoor adventures, magical experiences, or cosy indoor escapes, January in the UK has plenty to offer. The quieter post-holiday period allows for more relaxed visits to popular attractions, and many sites offer special winter rates. Embrace the cold with scenic walks and ice skating, or stay warm with indoor activities that are perfect for family fun.