By Sheilagh Larkin, Marketing & PR Assistant
Published: Aug 26, 2024More by Sheilagh
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Shoulder Season Secrets
Shoulder season is usually defined as October and late March through April. Travelling to the UK and Ireland during this time offers a unique perspective that’s often overlooked and heavily underrated. As the peak tourist crowds thin out and the landscapes take on a new, quieter beauty, the charm of these regions truly shines. Whether you’re drawn to the crisp air of early spring or the allure of uncrowded attractions, the shoulder season is an ideal time to explore the UK and Ireland.
Read on to discover just a few of the many reasons why this time of year is excellent for your clients’ next adventure, from more intimate encounters with iconic landmarks to exceptional value and a deeper connection with the local culture.
More Availability
One of the biggest advantages of travelling to the UK and Ireland off-peak is the increased availability of accommodations, attractions, and experiences. This offers clients extra flexibility that they may not receive during peak season. At Wilderness, we also have spent years building up relationships with key suppliers, allowing you and your clients to take advantage of the shoulder season and secure those popular reservations, making a high-quality trip more accessible.
Whether it’s staying in that dream castle hotel or getting a table at a sought-after local eatery, shoulder season travel opens up a world of opportunities that can be harder to come by during peak times.
Escape the Crowds
Visiting the UK and Ireland during the shoulder season means enjoying iconic attractions and stunning landscapes without the crowds. With fewer tourists around, your clients can explore popular sites like the Cliffs of Moher, Stonehenge, and Edinburgh Castle at a more leisurely pace, taking in the beauty and history. The quieter atmosphere allows for a more immersive experience, whether wandering through charming villages, strolling along scenic coastlines, or soaking up the atmosphere in bustling cities. By choosing travel during the shoulder season, you can give your clients the opportunity to connect more deeply with the culture and surroundings.
Cosy Winter Vibes
Visiting the UK and Ireland off-peak offers the chance to experience the enchanting, cosy atmosphere that these regions are known for. As the weather cools, the charm of traditional pubs with roaring fireplaces, warm beverages, and hearty comfort food becomes even more inviting. Picture evenings wrapped in a snug blanket, sips of hot tea or mulled wine in a quaint countryside cottage, or exploring historic towns with no other tourists. The shorter days and crisp air add to the ambience, creating the perfect backdrop for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous journey.
Each Season Brings Something Special
Travelling to the UK and Ireland during the shoulder season offers the chance to witness the unique beauty of seasonal changes that your clients won’t experience at any other time of year. During the first part of the year, the Welsh countryside starts to come to life with vibrant wildflowers, lush green landscapes, and the heartwarming sight of lambs frolicking in the fields. In Ireland, visiting the Burren is a must-do for those eager to see an array of native Irish wildflowers at any time of the year. The Cotswolds in England is home to fields full of sheep and other farm animals, so if your clients are looking to see cute lambs frolicking in the shoulder season, this is the place for you. Or, if your clients are looking for more wildlife, travelling to the Outer Hebrides in Scotland gives ample opportunity for that. From eagles and dolphins to basking sharks, these Scottish islands offer an abundance of fantastic creatures to spot throughout the year.
Top Tips For Travel Outside of Summer
- Embrace Local Festivals and Events
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Many towns and cities host unique seasonal events, such as spring garden shows and autumn markets. These offer a great way for your clients to experience local culture and traditions.
- Explore the Outdoors
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The shoulder season is perfect for hiking, cycling, and exploring the countryside, with trails and scenic spots being less crowded than in the height of summer.
- Indulge in Seasonal Foods
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We work closely with local suppliers to seek out local, seasonal produce and dishes that reflect the time of year, whether it’s spring lamb, autumnal root vegetables, or warming winter stews.
- Pack for Variable Weather
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The shoulder season often brings unpredictable weather, so we advise packing layers, waterproof gear, and comfortable shoes to stay warm and dry during your explorations.
- Photograph the Changing Landscape
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The softer light and changing colours of shoulder season create stunning photography opportunities, so your clients can capture the fond memories of their luxury adventure in a magical light.
- Relax and Unwind
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The slower pace of the shoulder season allows more time to relax and unwind. Our network of cosy, hand-picked accommodations, whether a countryside inn, historic country house hotel, or exclusive-use castle, offers the perfect environment to end each day of adventure.
