It’s often expected that you need to travel overseas to get yourself a good ski spot. However, there are many areas in the United Kingdom that offer a chance to grab your ski jackets and water resistant pants and take on the slopes, without having to go too far from home. Take a look at some of the best ski resorts that Scotland and the north of England have to offer.
Scotland
Glencoe Ski Centre houses 8 lifts and 20 runs, with a range of slope types. It is also the oldest Scottish Ski centre and the most convenient to get to, 74 miles north of Glasgow.
The Nevis Range site upon the 8th highest peak in Britain, Aonach Mor, and is 7 miles north of Fort Williams. It is surrounded by incredible scenery and there are plenty runs for all skill levels.
Glenshee resort contains 25 miles of downhill runs over the space of four mountains. There’s a wide range of terrain for all skiers and snowboarders, with a café open all year round.
Cairngorm Mountain resort is well known as one of the harder spots to ski in Scotland. There are 38 runs and 11 lifts, set over more than 30km. There is a railway that runs to the top, where glorious views are visible, making this a resort for skiers and non-skiers alike.
The Lecht 2090 Resort stands 2090 feet about sea level and is great for beginner skiers. The resort is one of the smallest in Scotland and features shorter runs. It is popular with families and is often quieter than the other resorts.
England
Located in the north of England are ski clubs that are smaller than the resorts in Scotland, but can offer you a chance to ski during season between November and April.
The Lake District ski club gets the best snow in the area and it features up to 9 pistes (weather permitting), the longest being one mile.
The Allenheads in Northumberland are a membership only ski facility but it’s easy join and is cheaper than a couple of days skiing at large resorts. They only expect a few weeks of suitable skiing in most winters.
Yad Moss is best suited to intermediate and advanced skiers. There are 8 blue/red ski runs of up to 800m in length. There is a fast Poma tow which is 600m long with a 125m vertical rise, which is only available for experienced users. As the site is run by volunteers, there is no food & drink facilities, meaning you must bring you own lunches. A day lodge is provided for warmth and shelter for your picnic.
Weardale Ski Club runs on Swinhope Moor. It has skiing days between 5-45 days a season. You can buy season tickets which allow you to ski any day they are open. Similarly to Yad Moss, they are run by volunteers and offer no food & drink services, but there is a lodge to have your packed lunch in.