Simon Walden
18 December, 2024
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Say goodbye to winter blues: Leeds Bradford Airport's top five sunny January escapes

This winter has been slightly duller than usual for the UK, with data from the Met Office revealing that the UK only experienced 145.6 hours of sunshine.

Recent data reveals that the UK only experienced 145.6 hours of sunshine this winter

As we enter January, the post-Christmas blues and lingering winter cold are leaving us dreaming of sunnier escapes to recharge and start the year on a bright note.

A short break to a sunnier destination can provide tangible health benefits, from boosting your serotonin levels to providing essential vitamin D and strengthen your immune system during the cold winter months. Plus, beyond science, there’s something undeniably uplifting about feeling warm sunshine on your face after weeks of dull skies! 

Luckily, Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has you covered with quick and easy access to numerous sunny destinations to kickstart the New Year! From the golden beaches of the Canary Islands to the warm shores of the Mediterranean, LBA offers direct flights to some of the sunniest destinations in Europe and beyond.

Here, LBA has rounded up the top five sunny getaways you can jet off to this January that will guarantee sunshine. 

1.Tenerife

With around 180 hours of sunshine in January, Tenerife is the perfect destination for anyone needing a serious dose of Vitamin D. This island offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, so whether you’re spending the day basking on sandy beaches or exploring the majestic Mount Teide, Tenerife delivers warm, sunny skies all year round. With frequent direct flights available with Jet2.com and Ryanair, your sunny escape is closer than you think! 

2. Malaga

Aptly named Costa del Sol, Malaga averages 180 hours of sunshine in January. Just a three hour flight from LBA with Jet2.com and Ryanair, Malaga provides the perfect combination of history, artisan food and sunny beaches. Wander the charming streets of Malaga’s old town or enjoy an al fresco meal by the sea as you soak up the winter sun!

3.Alicante

A haven for sunworshippers, this mediterranean city offers a mix of vibrant culture, delicious food and beautiful beaches, with just over 175 sunshine hours in January! With direct flights taking just under three hours from LBA and return flights starting at just £54 per person, Alicante is perfect for a long weekend escape in the sun. Fly direct with Jet2.com or Ryanair to make the most of the sunshine! 

4.Lanzarote

Just a 4 hour and 20 minute flight from LBA, Lanzarote boasts around 200 hours of sunshine in January. Known for its gorgeous beaches, this Canary Island is perfect for sunseekers! Both Ryanair and Jet2.com offer flights directly from LBA to Lanzarote, with return flights starting from £111 per person!

5.Faro

The Algarve region of Portugal is renowned for its stunning coastline and mild winter weather, with around 180 hours of sunshine in January. A 3 hour flight from LBA with Jet2.com, Faro offers access to picturesque villages, dramatic cliffs and sunny beaches. It’s a serene escape for those looking for some extra sunshine to end 2024 on a high! What’s more, return flights start from £44 per person, making an affordable weekend trip away. 

Tom Holdsworth, Leeds Bradford Airport’s Aviation Development Manager commented: “At Leeds Bradford Airport, we offer an incredible variety of routes to some of Europe’s sunniest and most popular destinations. As the cold winter weather sets in, we’re proud to offer flights to those in the region to ensure they have access to year-round sunshine and quick escapes from the UK’s winter gloom.”