Book of the Month

February 2026

February brings that peculiar restlessness that only the depths of winter can inspire. The days are lengthening, snowdrops are emerging, and thoughts inevitably turn to the year's adventures ahead. It's the perfect month for planning, dreaming, and letting your imagination roam far beyond these grey British skies.

This month's selections reflect that forward-looking spirit. Whether you're plotting a grand American road trip, seeking inspiration from the natural world, or simply craving escapism through brilliant travel writing, we've curated picks that will satisfy your wanderlust whilst keeping you warm indoors.

Our Book of the Month is Lonely Planet USA, the comprehensive guide that's essential reading for anyone planning stateside adventures. With Route 66 calling and national parks waiting to be explored, February is precisely when you should be mapping out that summer journey across the pond. This latest edition brings fresh perspectives from local experts who know America's hidden corners as well as its iconic landmarks.

We've also selected outstanding titles across our core categories – each chosen because it speaks to this moment when winter's grip is loosening and possibilities seem endless. These are books to fuel your planning, inspire your creativity, and remind you why the outdoor world matters so deeply. Pour yourself something warming, settle in, and let these pages transport you.

Our Top Pick

Lonely Planet USA

by Lonely Planet, Regis St Louis, Ann Babe, Amy C Balfour, Sarah Etinas, Mary Fitzpatrick, John Garry, Anthony Ham, Lauren Keith, Amelia Mularz

Paperback

Lonely Planet's USA guide claims our top spot this month because February is planning season for summer adventures, and few destinations offer the scope and variety of the United States. This latest edition distinguishes itself through genuine local expertise – contributors like Regis St Louis and Anthony Ham bring insider knowledge that transforms this from mere guidebook to essential companion. What makes it particularly valuable is the balance between iconic experiences and lesser-known treasures. Yes, you'll find the Grand Canyon and New York City, but you'll also discover why a particular stretch of Oklahoma's Route 66 matters, or which hidden coastal towns deserve your attention. For British travellers contemplating their first American odyssey or seasoned visitors seeking fresh perspectives, this comprehensive volume provides the practical detail and inspirational spark needed to craft something truly memorable. It's planning and dreaming combined in one indispensable package.

Our Picks by Category

Lonely Planet Western USA

Lonely Planet, Amelia Mularz, Amy C Balfour, Margot Bigg, Sarah Etinas, Anthony Ham, Lauren Keith, Liza Prado, Helena Smith, Regis St Louis

Paperback

This category naturally goes to our overall winner this month. The USA remains enduringly popular with British travellers, yet its sheer scale can ...

The Last Navigator : A Young Man, an Ancient Mariner, the Secrets of the Sea

Steve Thomas

Paperback

Travel writing selection pending for February 2026. We're currently reviewing several exceptional narratives that capture the essence of adventure ...

Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises of North America

Mark Carwardine

Paperback

Our nature writing pick for February awaits final selection. This month we're particularly drawn to works that explore seasonal transition – that l...

Precision Cruising

Arthur F. Chace

Paperback

February might seem an unlikely month to highlight water sports literature, but for the dedicated paddler, sailor, or swimmer, winter is when skill...