#winter

Used electric cars look cheap, but battery health, range in winter, warranty terms and where you’ll charge decide whether you’ve got a bargain. Here are the checks to do first.

Venice in winter has fog, quiet canals, cheaper hotels and no day-tripper fee. Here’s when to go, what to pack, and how high water and new border checks affect British visitors.

Low vitamin D is common in UK winters and is often blamed for tiredness in midlife. Here’s what the NHS recommends, what the evidence says and when to see your GP.

Dark evenings and wet roads need not end your riding. Set up your bike for British weather, make indoor sessions count and know when to stay off the road.

Forget the expensive spa itinerary. Reykjavík’s winter-bathing ritual is cheaper, more sociable and occasionally much colder: here’s where to try it, and when to stay warm.

Longer days, high pistes and lunch without a race against the clock: here’s how to make a spring ski trip with friends worth the journey.

Forget the beach-club Algarve. In winter, southern Portugal offers long walks, working towns and room to breathe — provided you pack for the weather you’ll actually get.

The first cold morning is a rotten time to discover your boiler has packed in. September’s advantage may be availability, not a cheaper service.