January Staycations: Quiet, Good-Value Breaks After Christmas

January has a bad reputation. The money has gone on Christmas, the days are short and the weather is at its least inviting. But for a staycation, January has real advantages: it is the quietest month of the year almost everywhere, accommodation is often at its cheapest, and the places that are crowded the rest of the year have room to breathe.

At a glance

Good for: low prices, empty streets, spas, cities and coastal walks. Watch for: attractions closed for the winter, short days and changeable weather. Book: flexibly, and midweek if you can.

Why January works

Prices fall

Once New Year is over, demand drops sharply. Hotels and cottages that are full for most of the year often cut prices in January and February, and midweek rates fall furthest.

The crowds disappear

Places like Bath, York and the Lake District are transformed out of season. You can walk the streets, see the sights and eat where you like without queuing or booking weeks ahead.

What to watch out for

Seasonal closures

Many visitor attractions close or cut back in January. Some historic houses close their interiors over winter while keeping gardens open, and theme parks and seasonal boat trips may not run. Check before building a trip around any one attraction.

Short days

Daylight runs to roughly eight hours in the south and less in the north. Plan walks and outdoor sightseeing for the middle of the day and keep evenings for food, pubs and indoor plans.

Breaks that work well in January

City breaks

Cities do not close for winter. Museums, galleries, restaurants and theatres keep going, and many of the biggest museums are free. Our guide to city staycations has ideas.

Spa breaks

A spa hotel is ideal for a cold month, and January deals are common once the Christmas packages finish. See spa staycations.

Coastal walks

The coast in January is empty, bracing and often beautiful, especially on a clear, cold day. Pick somewhere with a good pub and a sheltered walk in case the weather turns.

A cottage with a fire

Self-catering cottages are often at their best value in January, and a log burner makes up for a lot of weather. See our guide to hot tub staycations if you want one with extras.

Getting around in winter

Snow and ice can close high roads at short notice in January, including well-known routes such as the Snake Pass in the Peak District and the Kirkstone Pass in the Lakes. Check road conditions before setting off, and choose a base you can reach by main roads or by train if you are travelling in a cold spell.

Late January ideas

The end of the month brings Burns Night in Scotland on 25 January, and in Shetland the Up Helly Aa fire festival on the last Tuesday of the month. In February, snowdrop gardens open and York's Viking festival arrives. See our guides to Burns Night, snowdrop walks and winter staycations.