Winter in the UK is a little misunderstood. In fact, we’d like to argue that it has a lot more to offer than it’s given credit for. It just takes a bit of mental re-framing and forward planning (e.g. don’t forget your layers!) to fully appreciate the beauty of the season that everyone loves to hate. That’s why we’ve partnered with Corona Cero to share some of our favourite winter activities in London – designed to help you reconnect with nature, and ensure you enjoy the first quarter of the year to the absolute fullest.
A global study showed that Britain is one of the least nature-connected nations in the world. And whilst winter is often a time where many of us shy away from the great outdoors, the Winter Olympics (starting today!) is the perfect reminder of how much fun can be had when you embrace the seasons and the elements. And nobody loves winter like the Winter Olympians, so Corona Cero joined forces with them to capture this connection and persuade us all that there’s golden moments to be found, if we just change our mindset.
Whether it’s an early morning walk, an invigorating cold plunge, or a delicious Corona Cero in one of the city’s best pubs, these outdoor activities are sure to make you fall in love with winter.
1. Sip a Corona Cero in one of these pubs
Sitting in a pub garden is a ritual that few Londoners will forgo, whatever season it is. And if you love an al fresco drink, then we guarantee sipping a crisp Corona Cero with the winter sun on your face, after a walk or an invigorating dip, will make it taste even better. Some of our top pub gardens for a cosy Corona Cero in London are the Northcote in Clapham, The Woolpack in Bermondsey, and The Scolt Head in Dalston.
2. Feast your eyes on nature’s beauty on a wintery walk
If you time it right, a wintry walk can be one of the most incredible ways to experience nature. The combination of beaming sunshine and crisp air on your cheeks is a guaranteed serotonin hit – with the chance of spotting some wildlife as an added bonus. From free roaming deer in Richmond Park and peacocks in Holland Park, to birdlife and reptiles in the Epping Forest, and tawny owls and hedgehogs Sydenham Hill Wood, there’s always something exciting to see, turning every walk into an invitation to reconnect with the outdoors.
3. Take a quick al fresco dip
No matter how daunted you might feel about submerging yourself in un-heated water during the winter months, we’ve got some news for you: the rumours are all true. The surge of endorphins you experience after even the shortest cold water plunge is absolutely unparalleled. Not only does it come with tons of health benefits that make you feel physically amazing, it also brings a huge sense of achievement – so you and your cold plunge companions can treat yourself to a Corona Cero in the pub after. West Reservoir Centre, Hampstead Heath Ponds, Beckenham Place Park, and the Serpentine Lido are four fantastic options if you’re wanting to give it a try.