Despite the chill, Brits are gearing up for winter trips across the UK, with Airbnb’s expert travel team revealing the hottest spots for a seasonal staycation.

As Christmas approaches, it’s prime time for a snug getaway, and Brighton has emerged as a top pick for a wintry retreat.

Renowned for its vibrant seafront, Brighton also boasts the title of the UK’s most walkable seaside city, perfect for those keen on bracing winter strolls.

A must-see is the Royal Pavilion, an opulent former royal residence that opens its doors from 10am to 5.15pm during the colder months, with the last entry at 4:30pm.

Visitors have praised the Pavilion on Tripadvisor, with one saying: “What a fantastic experience. The Royal Pavilion was so exotic and full of splendour.”

Another one commented: “It must have been stunning when it was first built as it took our breath away. It has aged very elegantly due to the hard work of all the staff concerned.”

Brighton’s Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is open from October 26, 2024, to January 5, 2025, and is a fantastic experience to enjoy with friends and family.

When the weather turns sour, Brighton Lanes offer a treasure trove of shops and boutiques for some festive shopping, or simply to enjoy a warming cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine in a cosy cafe.

Take a rejuvenating stroll along the seafront if the weather’s on your side, and keep an eye out for the remains of the old pier – a survivor of past flames.

Locals and visitors took to Tripadvisor to explain why everyone should visit Brighton at least once in the winter. One said: “A weekend in Brighton is rarely regretted. Beach fronts can be quite exhilarating on a cold, windy day, then retreat to a nice bar, and there are great choices for dinner!”

Another one explained that Brighton in winter may be “the best time to visit”. They continued: “The summer crowds have long gone but the city stays open, a time to enjoy it with the locals and those that do make the effort. Obviously, the weather will be a little fresher but that makes for a cleaner and healthier air to breathe in.

“The restaurants will be a little less busy, but still book a table for a weekend evening, better and more attentive service. The Museum is less crowded, the shops a little more relaxed, and the pubs, clubs and bars friendlier.

“Dark and gloomy, no way – the white winter light on the Regency architecture is one of the magical features of Brighton and one of the main reasons why artists such as Turner & Canaletto chose to paint the town in more ways than one.”