Now that the clocks have gone back and our thoughts start to focus on the winter months ahead, and of course Christmas, the experts at Britain’s Finest have put together a round up of the best British winter days out and activities for everyone from families to couples, foodies to garden enthusiasts. We think you’ll enjoy these…

Best for a weekend walk

Lyveden New Bield garden – Peterborough, Northamptonshire

There is something ethereal and quite magical about the grounds and gardens of this National Trust property. The Elizabethan lodge and its moated gardens are open every weekend until 4pm to explore. Lyveden was never actually completed and remains standing as it was at the time of its founder Sir Thomas Tresham’s death in 1605. Lyveden Way is the perfect winter walk through beautiful meadows, woodland and villages. Warm up afterwards with hot chocolate in the tearooms.

Best for gardeners

The Bressingham Gardens – Diss, Norfolk

Many say these are the most inspiring gardens you can visit, with incredible variety and vast swathes of beautiful planting. With 17 acres and 8000 species to marvel over, you may want to plan your visit in advance to make sure you can fit everything in. We love Bressingham as it has a specific Winter Garden – as well as gardens for the other seasons and a stunning Fragrant Garden. The bright reds and oranges of the ‘Midwinter Fire’ are quite breath-taking – not to be missed this winter. Open year round and perfect for a full day out.

Best for families

Salcombe – Devon

One for all the family – take a winter break in Salcombe and keep the whole family happy. Start with an amazing buffet breakfast at the Winking Prawn café. Once you’re fuelled for the day, wrap up and head to the beach – we love Salcombe North Sands, which is ideal for families and allows dogs all year round. Don’t forget wellies, nets and buckets for a spot of rock pooling. Write your names in the sand and enjoy some crisp British fresh air on the coast. If you’re making a weekend or a week of it, see Britain’s Finest best places to stay in Salcombe.

Best for couples

Y Polyn – Carmarthen

Cosy up by an open fire and enjoy a glass or two of champagne at this inviting country pub turned secretly brilliant bar and restaurant. The shabby chic style is casual and inviting, and the intimate setting is perfect for a winter date night. Local, seasonal produce is the order of the day and the chef takes serious pride in his creations – no flouncy touches to be found here though, which is always a bit of a relief. The Ferryside salt marsh lamb is second to none and the homemade bread is delicious.

Best festive day out

Tower of London Outdoor Ice Rink – London

This really is the most atmospheric location for a festive outdoor ice skating experience. The rink is in what was once the tower moat. With such a historic backdrop, come at dusk for the best experience when everything is lit up and sparkling against the night sky. It’s a great place to get a group of colleagues together after work – head to the café afterwards for a warming hot chocolate or something a little stronger. Opens on 20th November and stays right through to January 3rd.

Best for foodies

JoJo’s – Whitstable, Kent

Come hungry, you’re in for a treat! And book early to avoid disappointment too – JoJo’s is a beautifully simple mix of Greek, Italian and Spanish food, with dishes perfect for sharing. Their homemade puds are sumptuous and satisfying on a cold winter day and the hospitality is equally as warming. Try the sardines with lemon and black pepper as well as the irresistible mutton and feta koftas.