Brits have been warned not to get caught out as temperatures plummet and the country faces a big winter freeze.

The Met Office predicts temperatures will drop below average compared to previous years over the next three months.

See also: UK weather: 120 days of snow to hit Britain

 See also: 'Polar vortex 'could bring coldest winter for years to UK

After the recent balmy winters of the last few years, including the third warmest winter in 106 years, the chill in the air could take many by surprise.

Widespread snow, ice and road and rail chaos are expected after the winter's first snow hit northern England and Scotland this weekend.

Big winter freeze coming as -14C temperatures predicted - AOL Travel UK