Unseasonably mild weather for this time of year means that so many more people will be able to enjoy the great outdoors. In contrast to last Christmas when temperatures dipped below freezing, this Christmas Day the thermometer registered between 11C and 14C across Britain. Even the mountains in Scotland have mostly escaped snow during the festivities.

It has been revealed that temperatures are close to the warmest ever recorded for this time of year, 15.6C (60F) on December 25, 1896 and 1920. And it means that London had milder weather than the Greek capital Athens, as well as the Spanish city of Barcelona.

A Met Office forecaster said: “It’s a stark contrast to last year. Temperatures are mild for all parts of the UK. It is cloudy but dry due to a milder air mass. We’re likely to keep this general pattern through to the New Year and then there are likely to be some colder snaps.”

Perfect time to get outdoors

So why not take advantage of this amazingly warm weather during your time off from work and get out into the countryside with friends or family?

With mild temperatures and less chance of rain than usual a walk offers the perfect pursuit for burning off some excess calories. Having spent days indoors with the family, a walk is also a great way to re-energise and blow away the festive cobwebs. Choosing a route with lots of uphills will help to burn more calories – and if you’re keen to see off all of the excesses of the festive dinner why not head out for a couple of days of challenging walking?

What to wear for winter walking

You should still be prepared for a range of weathers. It’s winter and conditions can change from one hour to the next so make sure you choose the right walking clothing. It might be that a couple of baselayers and a waterproof jacket will be the ideal choice for a lower-level walk, but if you’re planning to head higher remember that temperatures quickly drop. Even if it feels mild when you start out on your walk, you should pack a few extra layers for higher climes.

At higher levels, rain is much more likely, and the ground will be sodden. Pack a waterproof jacket and waterproof over-trousers. It’s really important that you wear waterproof walking boots, too. Wet feet, whatever the weather, make for a walk far less enjoyable!

Add winter walking clothing essentials including a hat and gloves and don’t forget a compass, map, snacks and fluids in case the clouds come down and you find yourself walking for longer – and in murkier conditions.

Milder weather suits all the family

While the festive season of 2010 might not have suited a walk with younger members of the family, this year the temperatures are perfect for a family ramble. Generous outdoor loving parents will surely have popped a few new outdoor clothing gifts for their kids beneath the Christmas tree!

This week is a great time to get the children kitted out in their walking boots or shoes (or even wellington if the walk isn’t too far or strenuous), fleeces and waterproof jackets, hats and gloves for an energetic stroll.

After days of being cooped up indoors with relatives, a walk is guaranteed to lift everyone’s spirits.