Winter in the national parks

The UK’s national parks provide a great backdrop for your festive celebrations

- Kate Simon

YORKSHIRE DALES

This is prime trekking country. It’s a joy to crunch snow underfoot on bright winter-day walk – and find a snug pub amid the handsome towns and villages. In this official Dark Sky Reserve, on cold clear nights you’ll see the planets, the Milky Way, and even sometimes the Northern Lights. Off the fells, visit the medieval ruins of Fountains Abbey. Go to yorkshiredales.org.uk.

FESTIVE FUN

Askrigg village was the location for the 1970s BBC series of All Creatures Great and Small. Wander the cobbled streets in December, when the locals unveil advent scenes in the windows of 24 cottages.

WHERE TO STAY

Enjoy Michelin-star fare at The Angel at Hetton. The fresh, contemporary styling of its 15 rooms is enhanced by original quirks, such as crooked oak beams. From £360pn, DB&B; angelhetton.co.uk.