Aside from the obvious perks of lower prices and fewer crowds, there are lots of reasons why you might choose to head out for a camping or caravanning break at this time of year. Allow us to share a few of our favourites with you.
In his acclaimed novel, Stardust, Neil Gaiman wrote, “A philosopher once asked, ‘Are we human because we gaze at the stars, or do we gaze at the stars because we are human?’” Whichever you believe, there aren’t many of us who don’t enjoy a spot of stargazing, and a winter holiday is the ideal time to do it. The nights set in earlier, which means the sky is fully dark by around 7pm, and the rural location of many campsites means there’s less light pollution to hide the stars.
Thanks to sky map apps, constellation spotting is easier than ever, and thanks to three and four season sleeping bags, there’s no need to freeze while you’re doing it.
Those who love the outdoors will already know that there is something profoundly beautiful about the winter world. The bare trees cut precise silhouettes against the sky, a lower sun makes the light softer and if there’s snow on the ground, untouched landscapes look truly magical. Walking or cycling soon warms the body up and there’s nothing better than finishing up a winter walk with a hearty meal in a local pub and perhaps a glass or two of mulled cider.
There’s no reason why you have to stay in the UK for your winter break. Plenty of campers and caravannners head for southern France, Spain or Portugal when the cold weather sets in at home. You won’t be sitting by the campsite pool in a bikini, but you’re also less likely to be facing the low temperatures we see in Britain, at least during the day.
We've discussed the health benefits of camping holidays before, and these don’t change depending on the season. Being away from the stresses and strains of everyday life relaxes you, and being outdoors and in the fresh air ticks all sorts of boxes when it comes to fitness, cardio-respiratory health and resetting your body clock.
Inspired to try winter camping? Here is a list of campsites that are open all year round.
Rob Fearn
Editor - Alan Rogers Guides
Rob is the General Manager at Alan Rogers Travel Group, he is responsible for the ongoing development of the Alan Rogers website and publication of the Alan Rogers Guides.
He has been involved in the leisure industry since completing a BTEC in Travel & Tourism in 1993. Previous roles have included the promotion of tourism in Yorkshire and running a motorcycle touring company in the Australian Outback.
