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Winter holidays are often an unexpected bonus and a wonderful time to slow down and engage with special places away from the crowd. With our knowledge of the grand array of historic and cultural gems in Britain, we have created a small selection of breaks that we feel are perfect for the winter season. They blend short, fascinating walks with our favourite inspirational places.

With cosy pubs, delicious afternoon teas and stays in warm, friendly boutique hotels and inns, these short winter walking holidays will warm the cockles of your heart. The footpaths we have chosen are largely hard surfaced and sheltered for most of their length. All trips include substantial time indoors be it in a castle, a workshop, a palace or a glasshouse. And we have included transfers in many cases, should the weather not be to your liking! They are available from November to 31 March. We are sure you will have a brilliant time.

Winter warmers in England

Potter and paint in the Cotswolds Cotswolds

History and 'her' story Thames

Culture,countryside and couture Oxford

The Cotswolds tour

This combines countryside walks with a little history and the chance to develop your creative talents at a painting, craft or cookery workshop at Daylesford Organic Farm. We have planned this break with some lovely winter walks but also optional transfers and indoor activities - just in case the weather decides to be unkind! This tour includes some of our favourite places such as Sudeley Castle and Bourton on the Water, with a chance to embrace the views and fresh air with shorter walks that end in cosy hostelries. You will also have the opportunity to explore some of the history that abounds in case the weather is not so kind. The routes follow a few well worn Cotswold walks as well as lesser known tracks - our speciality. We have also included a workshop - choose from painting, calligraphy, floristry, or cookery and spend a few hours indulging your passion or trying something completely new! Tell us what you would like to do or the dates that suit and we will do our best to find the perfect match.

The Thames tour

This a remarkable short walk along this famous river exploring some of the fantastic history of England from a female perspective - from present day with the fairytale marriage in Windsor of our present Queen's grandson to a beautiful American Actress back in time to all 6 of Henry VIII's wives at Hampton Court, and on to Kew Gardens the site of Kew Palace. Here is a celebration of royal history. Monarchs built their palaces and planted their gardens along the banks of the River Thames. They hunted on the vast tracts of land surrounding these palaces which remain today as unspoilt royal parks. We have arranged a series of shorter walks so you can experience the sights and smells of quintessential England, as this great river threads its way through sleepy rural villages, pretty landscapes and through the heart of bustling historic towns such as Windsor, Richmond and London, but also with plenty of opportunity for indoor exploring if the weather is unco-operative! Royalty and history beckon, whilst water meadows, old inns, wildlife and weirs lead you serenely on.

The Oxford tour

A feast for all the senses whether you are a connoisseur of history, culture, wildlife or the more material pleasures of luxury shopping. This winter walking holiday covers it all! Start off in Oxford where there is so much to explore from the world renowned university - the oldest in the English speaking world; the one thousand year old Oxford Castle; and Museums and galleries galore with plenty of cafes and hostelries for refreshment. We have included a city tour to help you get the most from your visit. The next day get away from from the bustle with a surprisingly rural walk along the canal and river with lunch at one of our favourite pubs. After a second night in Oxford we will take you to Woodstock for the next two nights and a day exploring Blenheim Palace with a choice of outdoor walks in the grounds and indoor discovery in the Palace. On your last day it's time for a little retail therapy. Our driver will take you to Bicester Village - Britain's leading designer shopping outlet and return you to your hotel for a last night in Woodstock.

Hello and welcome to the third installment of our blog series, where we profile the brilliant people who act as 'hosts' on Carter Company cycling and walking holidays across the UK and Europe. It's the host's job to look after you from the very moment you arrive to the moment you leave, from briefing your route at the start of your trip to answering any questions you might have on the tour, as well as leading any guided days of walking or cycling that might be included in the itinerary. Our hosts are really our superstars and we want to champion them more. They are also full of interesting stories and the kind of people who like adventures, so we hope you enjoy getting to know them a little better through these interviews...

Today we meet Rob (pictured above). Rob is the host for many of our cycling and walking holidays in the Cotswolds and along the Thames. Born and brought up in Oxfordshire, Rob has a huge spirit of adventure and spent a number of years in the RAF where he lived and worked in several far flung locations across the globe. He is a very keen (some would say over keen) cyclist and adores bikes; he is passionate about history and meeting interesting people is what makes him tick. As a previous Operations Manager with The Carter Company, he knows all our tours and routes inside out, as he does Oxford where he lives.

Wendy: Rob, hello! Can you tell us a little about your role as a host in the Cotswolds and Thames? How did you end up becoming a Carter Company walking and cycling holiday host?

Rob: Being a fan of landscape and history, I wanted to share the amazing variety and wealth this area I love, has to offer in these respects. And sharing it with people who come from all over the world to this area I'm so proud of is very rewarding. I find the questions I get asked before they set out are fascinating: is there any danger from wildlife? (none at all!) Will we be cycling on busy roads or walking on paved paths? (no to both). How can I achieve the comfiest saddle? (I lend them a gel cover!) We only have trainers to walk in, is this OK? (not the best!)

Wendy: What's your favourite thing about being a host in the Cotswolds and Thames?

Rob: I think the excitement of clients! Both before their impending adventure and at the end of their trip when I often meet clients,as they are so happy and full of tales. They are always surprised at the number of villages they went through every day, the charming quirkiness of the accommodation and those staying in classic hotels comment on them exceeding their expectations. They are full of the special things they have discovered about the area for themselves.This is what makes my job so worthwhile!

Wendy: Everyone has their favourite spots in the Cotswolds and along the Thames. Some are more crowded than others (!). In fact, getting away from the crowds is one of the big challenges for visitors during peak season. Can you recommend anywhere quiet in high season?

Rob: Kingham is a delightful village where you can sit in the village pub looking over the green. Its peaceful and quiet and feels a million miles away from crowds or bustle. Along the river, I just adore the village of Kelmscott; again it has a characterful inn as well as the fascinating manor house where William Morris chose to live.

Wendy: Do you have any advice for our readers who are thinking of visiting the Cotswolds or the Thames?

Rob: Come in June and July when the summer is fresh. Don't rush - enjoy the journey and take all day as there's just so much to see. In the Cotswolds, remember that wolds means hills - not mountains, but the terrain is rolling.

Wendy: And finally, if you could go walking or cycling anywhere else in the world, where would you choose and why?

Rob: It has to be China!, the whole experience is so alien and utterly fascinating. And there's great history too. Nearer to home, I'd like to cycle in the Netherlands, just to experience their amazing network of bike paths and the cycling infrastructure they've built up.

The UK is a truly unique place, and our ancient heritage often leaves strange reminders of the past. Amusing hang-overs from history often come in the form of names - here are our picks for Britain's funniest place names.

Once Brewed/Twice Brewed

With a different name depending on whether you are entering from the East or the West, this little village supposedly got its name in the 1400s after Yorkist soldiers insisted their beer be brewed again to make it, and them, stronger for battle. Despite being very small, theres a lot of history here. The village is a stop along our Hadrian’s Wall Walk, so remember to pop into the inn for some of the famous ale.

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch

With the longest place name in Europe, this small Welsh town has become rather famous for being near unpronounceable. Unsurprisingly, as you need a good grasp of the language to even attempt to say it, Llanfair has one of the highest percentage of fluent Welsh speakers in Britain. Taron Egerton, star of Kingsman, comes from Llanfair, and if you want to hear the name pronounced correctly, look him up on YouTube. Visit on our walking holiday

Upton Snodsbury

Nestled in sleepy Worcestershire, Upton Snodsbury is a sweet little village easily mocked for its silly name. When it was founded, almost a thousand years ago, it probably seemed quite sensible.

Boggy Bottom

Recently crowned Britain’s third funniest place name, Boggy Bottom is a neat hamlet in Hertfordshire. ‘Bottom’ is of course a common name for places in valleys, or for road ends. Bogs too are common, and yet the name rarely fails to prompt a giggle. It’s the wonderful combination of the two that make this such a special place to live! Try our Chiltern cycling trip and you'll be a stone's throw away.

Droop

Down in Dorset you will find the amusing village of Droop. If you are on our Ramble and ride in Dorset, you will be lucky enough to pass through Droop, and have a good laugh at its expense. The name really just means ‘outlying farm’, but that’s not very funny.

Giggleswick

Yorkshire has some great spots, but one of our favourites is Giggleswick – what a name! Found in West Yorkshire, near to the Lancashire border, this town is actually quite lovely, and has plenty of heritage. It is also the home town of several famous faces, including Richard Whitely and Anthony Daniels (C3-PO). Stay here on our Dales Way walking holiday

Rest and Be Thankful

While barely a hamlet, Rest and Be Thankful in Scotland is a very special place. Theres an Inn and a postbox, but the real reason to Be Thankful is the phenomenal view. The picture above is of that very scene. As it’s difficult to give directions to places with such strange names, you are likely to have the view all to yourself. For more scenes like this, check out Scotland sea to Skye walking trip.

Beer

Beer is a village in Devon, situated on Lyme’s Bay. While the name isn’t actually derived from the drink, this hasn’t stopped the villagers from celebrating the supposed connection. Beer is really famous for stone, and stone taken from the quarries has been used to build some of the most incredible buildings in the UK, including St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Here is our guide to British regional food. Whether you are cycling or walking in Britain this summer, you should definitely give some of these a try. Complete your picnic with a nice flask of tea, or a bottle of English sparkling wine...

Savoury

Scotch Eggs – A delicious savoury Scottish invention, the ‘Scotch Egg’ consists of a hardboiled egg encased in sausage meat and breadcrumbs. Today, they are a national favourite and can be found in pretty much every grocery shop – they also come in all sorts of varieties and sizes. If you want to try a more traditional one, we recommend seeking out a local farmshop.

Ploughman’s – this traditional English lunch is simple but satisfying. As the name suggests, this is the typical country man’s meal, and has been for centuries. The ploughman’s is usually made up of celery, tomatoes and pickled onions, alongside fresh bread and butter. There is often a cold meat, hardboiled egg and local cheeses. As a platter of local prides, it’s pretty hard to go wrong with a Ploughman’s.

Regional Cheeses – Of course, if you are travelling in the UK, it would be remiss to not try some of our wonderful cheese. Cheddar is a must, but you should also try Red Leicester, crumbly Wensleydale, and smoked Lancashire. If you like blue cheese, then you must try the famous Stinking Bishop. Cornish Yarg and Shropshire Blue are also very good!

Sweet

Welsh Cakes – known as Bakestones within Wales, Welsh Cakes are yummy little snacks made with cinnamon and nutmeg, and with raisins or sultanas. Though rare, they are sometimes served with butter or jam.

Eccles Cakes – these are the northern English equivalent of Welsh Cakes and are similarly packed with fruit. Unlike the Welsh Cakes, they are lighter, often with flakier pastry, and are decorated with sugar.

Bakewell Tart – invented in Derbyshire, the Bakewell Tart is made with a shortcrust pastry base, layers of jam and frangipane, topped with icing and almonds. The Bakewell Tart is the height of indulgence and is a beloved favourite around England. You can buy a big one to share, or little ones for afternoon tea. While readily available in supermarkets, you are better off visiting a good baker’s.

Scones – debate is rife across the UK as to the origins of the Scone. The scone has been claimed by practically every region down to Cornwall, with each having their own twist. It is most likely, however, that the Scone originated in Scotland, and was named after ‘Scone’, the area where monarchs were traditionally crowned. While technically Scottish, the Scone is the ultimate English afternoon tea treat, and is must when visiting the UK. If you don’t believe the controversy over scone, check out this Independent article about the Cornwall versus Devon argument, which had to be settled by the Queen!

We have picked out some of our favourite beaches from across all of our tours, to help you get more excited for the summer. If this heatwave continues, then the beach will be the place to be!

Bude, Cornwall, England

Several beaches border the Cornish town of Bude, and all have their own charms. Some stretch out, perfect for sandcastles and picnics, while others, such as Crackington Haven, attract surfers and sailors. There is no chance of disappointment here; the beaches at Bude are some of the best in the UK, and have won awards for their beauty. Widemouth Beach, a little outside the town of Bude, is perhaps the best of all. As its name suggests, this is one of the bigger beaches in the area, and rarely gets too busy. As it is a little removed from the centre, it has a wilder and more untouched feel, perfect for those who also want to spot some wildlife. Learn about our Cornwall tours on our website.

Poppit Sands, Cardigan Bay, Wales

Wales has never quite got the attention it deserves – Wales boasts some of the most beautiful beaches and bays in the UK, and yet remains relatively quiet throughout the year. Poppit Sands, one of the finest beaches in Cardigan Bay, is mostly frequented by locals, and is the perfect place to soak up some Welsh charm while enjoying the sun. One of Poppit Sands best features is the rolling sand dunes – walk along these and look out to sea, or lounge and paddle closer to the waves. The sea is fairly calm here, and while you may spot some paddleboarders, it is one of the safest beaches for children. Check out Cardigan Bay online…

Mont Saint Michel, Brittany, France

The image of Mont Saint Michel, the castle in the sea, is well known around the world. It is one of the most stunning sights, and is a world favourite. As well as great history, this area has some spectacular beaches where you can look out at the island. Famously, the island is accessible as the tide goes out, and the whole area becomes one great beach. Do be careful to check the tide times when you go out however! Our tour of Brittany’s Emerald Coast is one of the best for those searching for a calm and cultured beach trip – take a peek at the website, every stop on this tour makes for the perfect beach summer holiday.

The Nossa Senhora de Encarnação, the Algarve, Portugal

The white beach of Nossa Senhora sits at the base of the cliff fort, and is the perfect place to relax and watch the waves while working on your tan. However, the best bit of this section of the Carvoeiro coastline is the boardwalk, which will lead you along to the incredible rock formations of Algar Seco and Boneco. The walk is made up by a wooden walkway on the rocky clifftops, giving you great views over the sea and the unique geology of the area. Taking the time to walk down to Algar Seco is a must – the dramatic sea arches and stacks make for some pretty stunning photographs. Also worth exploring is the Boneco caves, which are fascinating, if a little spooky. After you have done Algar Seco, you can simply walk back to the beautiful beach, get a drink, and choose your favourite photos for Instagram! Find out more about the wonders of the Algarve on our website.

Studland Bay/Isle of Purbeck, Dorset, England

Down on the southern coast, England has some rather special rock formations of its own. The Isle of Purbeck, a rocky peninsula with the sea on three sides, is an incredible place to walk or have a picnic. Down below, you will find Studland bay with great wide beaches that stretch along the coast. Golden sands on one side, and pebbles for rock-pooling on the other, there are few spots like this. This whole stretch of coast is fairly wonderful, and if you wish to explore further afield, Lulworth Cove is another perfect holiday spot. The great gem here is Durdle Door, a natural sea arch – one of the oldest and most impressive in the world. They also do great ice cream at the café. Learn more about Dorset on our site…