Sitting by a fire after a long day zipping downhill, cheeks pleasantly ruddy as you sip a steaming toddy… you can’t beat the cosy feeling of an authentic alpine holiday, but you can come pretty close to it in the UK. And skiing, skating and embracing the cold a little closer to home still includes plenty of cockle-warming après options and snug places to stay. Here’s where to find your dream winter holiday in the UK.
Lace up your skates in London

No cold-weather holiday is complete without a spin on some ice. Henry VIII’s historic Tudor home, Hampton Court Palace, forms the backdrop for one of London’s favourite skating rinks, which pops up annually for six weeks from 20 November. There are skates available to rent for kids and adults, and children who need a little help can opt for an adorable penguin- or dolphin-shaped skate aid. Book online to guarantee a place; each session lasts 45 minutes.
For after: When only ooey-gooey fondue will do, head into town to St Moritz restaurant on Wardour Street. Decorated with kitschy Swiss-chalet paraphernalia, this popular Soho spot specialises in bubbling cauldrons of the good stuff, plus hefty bratwurst and other hearty Swiss faves.
Stay here: Take shelter at the Thistle Hyde Park, where a crackling fire in the bar makes for a warm welcome after a red-nosed day out.