Peer out of the window as snowflakes tumble through the cold winter air – it’s up there with waking up on your birthday and going on holiday. There’s nothing quite like the excitement of the first flurries of snow.
But with the powder also come the difficulties. How will we get into work? Where is the sledge? Will the kids over the road let me get to the car before hailing snowballs down on me?
So why not take the hassle out of the winter weather and have some snowy escapades on your terms? The UK has some of the best indoor snow domes in Europe and whatever your level of ability, there’s something to keep you entertained.
So without further ado, here are a few places that could give the Alps a run for their money (cheaper too!)
1. SnowDome, Tamworth
Perfect for beginners, but with plenty of room for those further up the sporty chain, the SnowDome in Tamworth is the ideal option for the whole family.
Offering proper snow and a 170-metre slope, it makes both skiers and snowboarders feel well at home. Need lessons? Professionally qualified instructors will teach beginners young and old.
They’ve even got the UK’s only ice track. Better than rollerskating!
And for the little ‘uns you can hire sledges and have snowball fights in the kids’ area. What’s more, from 21st November Father Christmas will be in the SnowDome’s very own Winter Wonderland. And he’s bringing real animals and a fantastic festive show.
Why not crash in our Birmingham Travelodge after a hard day on the slopes, and check out the Bull Ring if you’re up for a bit of après ski!
2. The Snow Centre, Hemel Hempstead
If it’s good enough for the celebrities on Channel 4’s The Jump, then The Snow Centre, Hemel Hempstead is the perfect place for winter sports enthusiasts of all types.
A 160-metre real-snow slope, lessons for those just starting their downhill adventures, and boxes, rails and kickers for those who are further down the route to snowy greatness means The Snow Centre has a little something for everyone.
So book your lift passes and get out there. You can even check what level you’re at online, before you choose a lesson.
Our Hemel Hempstead Travelodge offers the ideal place to rest your weary limbs. And (big plus), it’s close enough to London for long-weekend ski trips!
3. Chill Factor-e, Manchester
Not only does the Chill Factor-e (as in Factory) have the coolest name in the UK snow dome business, it also boasts this isle’s longest real-snow slope at 180-metres.
Great for those who want to learn to ski or snowboard before taking to the Alps, this dome’s a pleasure for you sometime-pros who want to refresh your memories on the slopes – or just have a bit of fun. Even better, the Chill Factor is also the HQ for charity Disability Snowsport UK, which helps disabled people get out and share the fun of snowy activities.
Chill Factor-e’s less than 5 miles from central Manchester, so why not stay in our Manchester Travelodge and check out Almost Famous for dinner? It’s the place to munch on one of the best burgers in the UK – after all, you’ll have earned it!
