There are many reasons to choose an off-peak break in the UK. Not only are attractions and beauty spots quieter, so you can appreciate your surroundings in a more relaxed way, but it’s also a more cost-effective time of year to go on holiday.
While we appreciate that families are tied to term times, post-Christmas, winter and pre-Easter are prime times for couples and groups of friends to bag a bargain when booking a holiday. January in particular is worth considering. The Isle of Wight, Somerset and Devon are among the best places to make an off-peak saving.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the best places to visit in the UK off peak, delving into what makes them so special. Once you have chosen where you’d like to go, click the button below to browse the cottages we have available.
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New Forest: Lyndhurst
Our data identifies the New Forest as the most popular region for an off-peak break. The blend of coast and countryside means there are many lovely places to stay in the New Forest any time of year, but there is something special about the glorious heathland, woodland and coastline in the cooler days of autumn and winter. Set out on a bracing winter walk and encounter deer and ponies roaming free or explore the area’s enchanting towns and villages. May we recommend Lyndhurst as your base? Known as the capital of the New Forest, the village has hosted kings and queens on numerous occasions.
Lyndhurst cottages
Peak District: Bakewell
The Peak District and Bakewell ranked as the second most popular region and town for an off-peak holiday – and it’s easy to see why. The Peak District offers so many wonderful places to stay and there is plenty to attract the outdoor activities enthusiast, with walking, cycling and climbing opportunities in abundance. The breathtaking landscape provides some excellent photo ops! History fans are well catered for, with all manner of historic buildings and museums to visit, including the parish church in Bakewell. Be sure to add Chatsworth House to your itinerary. It’s especially magical from November to January when Christmas comes to Chatsworth.
Cottages in Bakewell
Somerset: Bath
Rich in sweeping vistas, from high cliffs and golden beaches to glorious, rolling countryside, Somerset is a treat. The sheer variety of places to visit and things to see in Somerset makes it a wonderful off-peak destination. From dog-friendly Dunster, with its castle and beach, to Cheddar with its awe-inspiring gorge and caves, there is something to appeal to everyone. Perhaps you might like to explore Wells, with its listed buildings and stunning cathedral? No trip to Somerset would be complete without a visit to Bath. It’s a treasure trove of attractions, from the Roman Baths to the Royal Crescent.
Stay in Bath
Isle of Wight: Newport
Our data shows that the Isle of Wight is the most cost-effective place for an off-peak break. It’s a tranquil haven during the spring and winter. In spring, it’s popular for orchard blossom walks. It's great for wildlife watching as migrant species of birds such as the swallow, willow warbler, and chiffchaff return. In winter, the weather on the island is milder than on the mainland. Off-peak adventures could include visiting Osborne House, the house and estate created by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. There are many lovely places to stay on the Isle of Wight, including Newport.
Newport cottages
Devon: Dartmouth
Given its year-round popularity, it’s worth noting that Devon comes in as the second most cost-effective region for out-of-season holidays. So, if you’re seeking a saving when booking your break, consider an off-peak stay in Devon. The county boasts two gorgeous and distinct coastlines, two national parks (Dartmoor and Exmoor) and characterful towns and villages aplenty. Meanwhile, the cities of Exeter and Plymouth are prime locations for culture, history and entertainment any time of year. Dartmouth in South Devon makes the perfect place to stay with lots to keep visitors entertained, including Dartmouth Steam Railway and Dartmouth Castle.
Stay in Dartmouth
Kent: Broadstairs
Affectionately known as the Garden of England, thanks to its mouthwatering local produce and thriving wine industry, Kent is a joy to visit out of season. It is home to one of England’s most famous landmarks – the White Cliffs of Dover – and sites of historic interest including Hever Castle and Chartwell. How about viewing Canterbury from the water on a trip along the River Stour? The charming seaside resort of Broadstairs is a gem during the quieter months; you’ve got the chance to explore the epic coastline without having to deal with crowds of other visitors.
Cottages in Broadstairs
Isle of Skye: Portree
The breathtaking Isle of Skye is 50 miles long, perfectly proportioned for an off-peak holiday – and easily accessible by ferry or car via the Skye Bridge from the Kyle of Lochalsh. It’s a haven for wildlife, and you might spot sea eagles, red deer, otters, dolphins, whales and seals during your visit to the isle’s beaches. If walking or climbing is your thing, Skye has the Trotternish Ridge and the formidable Cuillin Range. Be sure to visit Dunvegan Castle and Staffin Dinosaur Museum to find out more about the area. When looking for somewhere to stay on the Isle of Skye during your off-peak holiday, consider Portree, the capital of Skye.
Portree cottages
North Yorkshire: Hawes
Is there anywhere that conveys the picture-postcard rural idyll of England better than North Yorkshire? Steeped in pastoral charm, it’s a great place to recharge on an off-peak getaway. Whether you want a seaside sojourn or desire a dose of history and culture, North Yorkshire fits the bill. The market town of Hawes, set within Yorkshire Dales National Park, is well placed for getting a flavour of everything the area offers. You can find out more about life in the Dales at the Dales Countryside Museum, visit Wensleydale Creamery or go squirrel spotting at Snaizeholme.
Cottages in Hawes
Suffolk: Woodbridge
There are many fabulous places to stay in Suffolk in the summer but when the crowds disperse and the nights draw in, it’s just as unforgettable. Coastal destinations such as Felixstowe and Southwold provide opportunities for bracing, invigorating beach walks – and you can reward yourself with a hot chocolate in a local café or a tipple in a welcoming pub. See for yourself the magnificent landscape of Constable Country, set within Dedham Vale National Landscape, where every season offers a new perspective. The pretty market town of Woodbridge is ideally situated if you want to visit the Anglo-Saxon burial site at Sutton Hoo.
Woodbridge cottages
Inland Wales: Betws-y-Coed
The majestic, mountainous landscape of Snowdonia/Eryri is crowned by the village of Betws-y-Coed. This area is an autumnal treat, with its cascading waterfalls at the height of their powers. Popular with walkers and climbers, it is undoubtedly quieter off peak but there is still plenty to do and see. The village is a starting point for scenic walks, including the riverside walk up to Swallow Falls. To really get the adrenaline pumping, head to Zip World, where you can experience the Conwy Valley woodland via zip line safari or brave the Skyride, Europe’s highest giant swing.
Stay in Betws-y-Coed
Coastal Wales: Saundersfoot
The Welsh coastline has a dramatic beauty that is hard to beat - and you can experience it all with a walk along the Wales Coast Path. While holidaymakers flock to the fabulous beaches at places such as Tenby and along the Gower Peninsula during the traditional holiday periods, we recommend booking an off-peak holiday to fully appreciate the rugged cliffs and sandy shores. The village of Saundersfoot on the Pembrokeshire coast has the charm and good looks to appeal whatever the time of year. It sits between a golden sandy beach and rolling green hills, and has great shops and places to eat, so you're never short of things to do in Saundersfoot.
Saundersfoot cottages
Lake District: Keswick
It's hard to recommend a particular place to stay in the Lake District, because the whole are is so heavenly. Awe-inspiring in scale and natural beauty, your senses can feast on the astonishing scenery, including the legendary lakes. That said, Keswick is a good base for walking/outdoor adventures; the town itself can get busy in the summer but is much quieter during off-peak times. You can take boat trips across Derwentwater and walk around the lake with stunning viewpoints like Friar's Crag and Surprise View and there are nearby peaks like Walla Crag and Catbells. Whinlatter Forest is also nearby which is especially glorious in the autumn.
Cottages in Keswick
Northumberland: Berwick-upon-Tweed
Northumberland has it all: a National Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the largest Dark Sky Park in Europe. It’s an up-and-coming off-peak destination and worth contemplating for your next holiday. Cascading waterfalls, expansive beaches, intriguing castles and pretty gardens are all at your fingertips. That’s not forgetting Kielder Forest – a must-visit for off-peak tranquillity. The most northerly town in England, Berwick-upon-Tweed is one of the top coastal places to stay in Northumberland, with several beaches nearby. Its proximity to Scotland means it is steeped in the history of the battles between the two countries.
Berwick-upon-Tweed cottages
Cotswolds: Cheltenham
Our research identified the Cotswolds as the most popular region for a winter off-peak break. When the snow falls, you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’re in a movie when staying in a chocolate-box Cotswold cottage. Imagine a blissful January morning where you can gaze out on frost-kissed fields while enjoying a warm drink by the fire. As the leaves turn red, orange and gold, nothing beats a stay in Cheltenham, its parks and gardens in full autumnal splendour. The Regency town’s calendar is packed with events including its literature festival, Oktoberfest and the return of Cheltenham Ice Rink.
Cottages in Cheltenham
Cornwall: Porthleven
It will come as no surprise that we’d recommend visiting Cornwall, one of Cornwall, one of England’s prime holiday spots, during the off-peak months rather than in the heights of summer. Attractions such as the Eden Project and Tate St Ives will be quieter, and you’ll be able to visit Cornwall’s outstanding beaches in peace. Plus, there will be more of a chance to sample the delicious places to eat in Cornwall. Speaking of good food, Porthleven is a foodie haven. You’ll also find a vibrant arts and crafts scene, with galleries and shops galore. The harbour lends itself to a relaxing winter walk.
Porthleven cottages
Scotland: Aviemore
Rugged yet romantic, Scotland conjures up images of glassy lochs and magnificent mountains. Culture and history abound. Whether you’re seeking a coastal off-peak break, a peaceful getaway in the Highlands, or a city stay to remember, there are so many gorgeous places to stay in Scotland. Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park is an excellent choice for an off-peak holiday. The town is popular with snow sports enthusiasts, but with lochs, mountains and forests on its doorstep, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Ahead of their busy Christmas season, catch up with Rudolph and pals at the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre.
Aviemore cottages
Sussex: Rye
Rye in Sussex is a hidden gem when it comes to off-peak holiday locations and rounds off this tour of some of our favourites in the UK. The whole county lends itself to off-peak breaks; Sussex has so many lovely places to visit – who wants to share them with hordes of other people? From Battle Abbey to Ouse Valley Viaduct, Sussex isn’t short of spectacular sights – and that’s before we get into the grand coastline. The East Sussex town of Rye is especially easy on the eye. As one of England’s best-preserved medieval towns, it’s full of cobbled streets and half-timbered houses.
Cottages in Rye
Choose an off-peak stay
We hope this guide has helped convince you that off-peak holidays are the way forward. Apart from being easier on the wallet, the chance to appreciate places without the crowds is not to be underestimated. Where will you choose?
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