Winter RETREATS

There’s something special about a cosy UK getaway, with stunning walks followed by warm luxury. Here are our favourites

- KATY HOLLAND

County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland

WHERE TO STAY

A National Trust cottage on a nature reserve in County Fermanagh, aka Northern Ireland’s Lake District, is an idyllic venue in one the country’s most scenic counties. The Crom Estate nature reserve on the shores of Upper Lough Erne boasts wonderful views and teems with year-round wildlife. Stay at one of seven National Trust loughside cottages gathered around a courtyard, all with open fires and comfy furnishings. Two nights start at £251 at Alder Cottage (sleeps two); nationaltrust.org.uk/holidays

WHAT TO DO

Spot winter wildlife around the reserve; look out for pine martens, fallow deer and red squirrels. Vast numbers of whooper swans arrive from Iceland every winter. For a day out, visit the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark and be guided through an underworld of rivers, waterfalls, passages and stalactite covered chambers. Entry £11; marblearchcavesgeopark.com

The Scottish Highlands

WHERE TO STAY