Winter Days Out

Winter's here again and we know you may be feeling the pinch- both on the toes and in the wallets! While it certainly may be tempting to stay indoors, you don't have to hibernate- we've got some great ideas for fun days out that all the family can enjoy whatever the weather. What's even better? They're kind on the pocket too! So why not wrap up warm, venture out on one of our seven daily services and do something different this winter.

LONDON

Frostival: Until January 5

If you get your skates on there's still time to catch Frostival at the EDF Energy London Eye. Whether you're showing off skills on Eyeskate, the fantastic open-air ice rink beneath the eye, or hopping on board one of the specially themed capsules for a mulled wine or cocktail experience, there's something for everyone. Come down in the next two weekends and you'll also see some amazing ice sculpture demonstrations- watch out for carvings of famous London landmarks!

The Winter Festival: Until Friday 10 January 2014

Once you've checked out the eye, why not head on down to London's Southbank which has also been transformed for the festive season. Wander along the riverside through the bustling Christmas markets and catch exhibitions by Ana Mendieta and Dayanita Singh at the Hayward Gallery. Feeling peckish? Stop by one of the many cafes, restaurants and bars, or sample cheese, chocolate and wine in Southbank Centre Square. If that isn't enough there are also some fantastic shows for all the family to enjoy. Discover the sparkling world of white, created especially for 2-4 year olds, or marvel at incredible acrobats "Folds" as they tumble through an amazing set made entirely of cardboard and paper.

New Year's Eve 2013 Firework Display: December 31 2013

All bright sparks know that the London Eye is the place to be on New Year's Eve. The official fireworks display from barges on the Thames is definitely not to be missed. Make sure you have the best view of this amazing show by getting there in good time- designated viewing areas along the Thames fill up by around 9pm.

DONCASTER

Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Branton, Doncaster

A visit to the UK's No1 Walkthrough Wildlife Adventure makes a brilliant day out for all the family. Winner of the prestigious award of 'Yorkshire's Most Magnificent Attraction', the park boasts the world's largest leopard enclosure and is also home to giraffes, lions, tigers and much more. You'll find plenty of places to grab a drink and a bite to eat, and for rainy days out with the kids there's also a 600 square metre play barn complete with climbing frames, towers, dens, slides, swings and rope bridges. What's even better? Entry prices are discounted in the winter. We think it's a winner!

GRANTHAM

Belton House

A visit to this picture-perfect English country estate makes for a great day out, whatever the weather. Enjoy a stroll around the gardens past the mirror pond and boat house, admire stags as you explore the fallow deer park and stop for lunch at The Stables restaurant. Though the main house showrooms are closed in the winter, it's a great time of year to take one of the 'Below-Stairs' tours where you can discover how Belton's servants lived and worked in the 1900s. There are also gift, book and garden shops.

HULL

The Deep

The world's only submarium, The Deep, takes you on an interactive journey to discover the amazing story of the world's oceans and see over 3,500 fish including sharks, rays and Europe's only pair of green sawfish. There are daily dive shows, lagoon feeds and touch-pool sessions, and a visit to the acclaimed Two Rivers Restaurant really is a must to enjoy top quality meals in a stunning setting.