From dazzling light displays and lively artisan markets to sumptuous seasonal stays and friendly reindeer, read on to discover some of our favourite festive coastal breaks this year

This is prime trekking country. It’s a joy to crunch snow underfoot on a bright winter-day walk – and find a snug pub amid the handsome towns and villages. In this official Dark Sky Reserve, on cold c

(and some you might not have thought about)

Discover the best of our coast by night with a host of incredible after-dark adventures

Amy McCormack, senior gardener at the National Trust’s Anglesey Abbey, on planting for winter colour and scent and protecting perennials from frost

For a heavenly dose of nature, head to Westonbirt. Some 18,000 trees and shrubs cover the 600-acre site, which is located three miles southwest of Tetbury. With 17 miles of paths, it’s a wonderful pla