The Team’s Favourite Ways To Spend Winter
The winter brings its own magic with it – whether it’s long walks in Hampstead Heath, cosy Sunday roasts in your favourite pub or some cold water swimming for the brave-hearted. To take you from Christmas week to the New Year, here are some ways The Handbook team likes to spend winter in and around London:
A walk in the countryside
There’s nothing quite like a long walk on a crisp winter’s day – Especially when it ends with a glass of red in a cosy country pub and a game of backgammon.
Harriet, Head Of Partnerships
Sunday roast
In the winter months, there’s nothing I enjoy more than a Sunday roast. Escaping the cold for a classic meal (complete with plenty of gravy, of course), often with a roaring fire nearby, is the perfect way to recharge.
Natasha, Digital Editor
Rowing on the Thames
I’ve been loving my winter rowing sessions at TopRow. Especially on a Sunday morning when the sun is out – we row from Putney Pier to Hammersmith bridge and it’s my favourite view of London. I head to Fulham Pier afterwards for a coffee and it’s the ideal Sunday for me.
Andrea, Contributing Food, Culture & Lifestyle Editor
A visit to Hampstead Heath
A pub walk through Hampstead Heath always helps starting with soup or coffee in the village, then heading up to Hollybush and through the park. Ending the evening with a cosy dinner at The Spaniards Inn always lifts my spirits.
Caitlin, Senior Campaign Success Manager
Cold water swimming
When I go home to Brighton, I love going for the coldest sea swim! Just down from Brighton is Shoreham beach, which is lovely and sandy and has clear water. It’s a shock to the system but you feel so good after, and it’s great to do something good for your body in a season where I normally want to stay wrapped up instead of being active.
Kitty, Social Media Manager & Content Creator
Bangers and mash at the pub
When it gets cold, I end up at The Cow for bangers and mash more often than I’d like to admit. It’s comforting, unfussy and one of my favourite winter meals in the city. Plus, it always promises a fun (sometimes unexpected) night out.
Mallory, Food & Lifestyle Writer/Creator
A family day out at Kenwood Park
One of my favourite winter rituals is taking the family for a walk through Kenwood Park and into the woods — crisp air, muddy boots and guaranteed moaning from all five kids! We always end the walk with hot chocolate, which magically restores everyone’s enthusiasm (and patience). It’s simple, chaotic and very us.
Tamara, Contributing Beauty Editor
