Hoping to escape somewhere for a brief autumn or winter break? The chillier months of the year are considered low season (in places that don't cater for winter sports afficionados) when less people choose to travel, saving their holiday allowance for spring or summer instead. Therefore prices are often considerably lower and last minute deals at posh hotels and holiday rental properties can be snapped up at really affordable prices. Travel mid-week instead of at weekends and you could save even more money.

Whether it's a couple of days of peace and quiet you're seeking, or an action-packed week in the great outdoors, autumn and winter are actually great seasons for a spot of travelling. Autumnal colours provide for beautiful scenery and views, as do snow-covered tree tops and rolling hills.

There's nothing like curling up in front of a fireplace with a book, a loved one and a steaming mug of stew, tea or hot toddy.

City Escapes

In the run up to the big occasions that are Halloween, Christmas and New Year's Eve, many British cities are decorated and strewn with colourful lighting. Towards the middle or end of November, many a central city square will also become host to German-style Christmas markets.

Seasonal hits include the beautiful Scottish capital city of Edinburgh. Not only are the city's restaurants and pubs very inviting (with hearty treats such as haggis and fresh seafood on the menu), but also its seasonal markets and pop-up shops. The German Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens is a must-see and all visitors should try some of the delicious goodies on sale, such as bratwurst, crepes and mulled wine.

Other seasonal favourites include London, Manchester, Glasgow, Cheltenham, Portsmouth and Newcastle. Here, hotels are likely to boast seasonal offers with discounted room rates and meals included in the price.

Outdoor Adventures

If you're looking to spend time in the outdoors, a holiday rental or country hotel are your best bets. Most will come complete with blazing fireplaces! You'll also have the luxury of thick duvets to get tucked up in.

Areas such as the Lake District, the Cotswolds, and Cairngorm National Park are perfect for outdoor escapes at any time of year. You can venture out to enjoy the fresh air by strolling along the miles and miles of country lanes and paths, stopping off for warming lunchtime soups and stews, or cheeky wee drams.

Stop hesitating and book yourself and end-of-year holiday now, whether it's a Halloween-themed weekend, an outdoor escape or a classy Christmas break. Everyone deserves a rest after a hard year at work.