Christmas is nearly over for another year, and the prospect of a long and cold January is enough to make anyone miserable. But getting out and about in the fresh air can make a massive difference, and there are plenty of gorgeous UK spots to visit that are sure to blow the cobwebs off. 

There’s one particular location I’ve visited since childhood that draws crowds in the summer but is often overlooked during winter. However, after spending a rain-soaked weekend there, I can confirm it’s just as great. And maybe even more so, as it has a much cosier vibe.

Largs, a quaint coastal town in western Scotland approximately an hour from Glasgow, is the place to be. Renowned for its Viking museum, nostalgic amusement arcades, and ferry trips to the Isle of Cumbrae, it’s a destination many Scots will have enjoyed during the balmy summer season.

It’s one of those places that I remember so fondly that I thought it couldn’t possibly be as good as I remembered, especially on cold grey days.

However, I was so wrong. During a recent family trip, we enjoyed plenty of rainy strolls along the beach, ate some delicious food, and even spotted a couple of Vikings – all without a hint of sunshine.

This charming town, nestled beside the Firth of Clyde, offers everything you could want from a coastal retreat, including an array of lovely hotels and accommodation options.

We stayed at the Old Rectory, a stunning holiday home that comfortably sleeps up to 14 guests, complete with a hot tub in the garden and loads of space for relaxation.

One of the highlights of Largs is its proximity to the seafront, regardless of where you’re staying. The Victorian-style promenade is brimming with attractions, not to mention an impressive selection of food and drink establishments serving everything from traditional fish and chips to mouth-watering Thai cuisine.

Largs holds huge historical significance as the site of a pivotal battle in 1263, which signalled the end of Viking dominance in Scotland. The Vikingar museum provides an insightful look into this era, or for those seeking a more immersive experience, the annual Largs Viking Festival is a must-visit.

Coincidentally, the festival was taking place during our visit, featuring battle re-enactments, live music, and some intriguing costumes.

Beyond its Viking heritage, Largs is also famous for its art deco ice cream parlour, a long-standing attraction that continues to draw visitors year after year.

Nardini’s, affectionately hailed as Scotland’s most renowned cafe, has earned its popularity through its invitingly warm and cosy interior, not to mention the irresistible ice cream.

Its prime location on the waterfront, like Vikingar, makes it an idyllic spot to enjoy a scoop or two of your preferred ice cream flavour.

With an extensive selection of cakes and light bites on offer, it’s the perfect destination for lunch or a quick snack to energise your seaside strolls.

Venture into the heart of the town and you’ll discover quaint winding streets brimming with independent gift shops, eateries and even more ice cream.

One morning, we opted for brunch at Perk – a vibrant cafe adorned with plants and books, boasting an impressive menu. The vanilla matcha was divine, and I couldn’t resist ordering the delicious feta and avocado waffles on offer.

And if you’re still feeling peckish after your meal, there’s a cake cabinet bursting with pastries and other treats available for takeaway.

While Largs may lack the presence of high street giants, it more than compensates with an array of independent vendors showcasing their unique products.

A large market tent houses retailers offering everything from organic dog food to wooden lamps, jewellery, soaps and even tarot-reading – it’s a place where you could wander for hours. 

For those looking for more exploration, a short ferry ride from the port will transport you to the Isle of Cumbrae, home to the lively town of Millport.

The island’s compact size allows for a complete cycling tour in just a few hours, with the reward of a refreshing pint awaiting at journey’s end before a swift 10-minute return sail to the mainland.

Nearby lies the stunning Kelburn Castle, a beautiful park and estate that hosts its own music festival during the summer months. It’s an ideal spot for families, boasting numerous playparks, waterfalls and much more to discover – all conveniently located less than 10 minutes away from Largs.

However, rest assured that Largs itself offers ample entertainment to fill a day or even an entire weekend. Don’t be deterred by the typical Scottish weather; the occasional grey and drizzly conditions only serve to enhance the invigorating seafront walks and make the local ice-cream parlours feel even cosier.