National parks of the United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is home to some stunning national parks, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor recreational opportunities (hiking, wildlife watching, cycling, boating, rock climbing). At the time of writing this post, there are 15 national parks in the UK, spanning England, Scotland and Wales.
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National Parks in England
England's national parks are some of the country’s most treasured landscapes, offering a mix of natural beauty, history and outdoor adventure. From the rugged peaks and stunning lakes of the Lake District to the rolling hills of the South Downs, each national park showcases a unique blend of stunning scenery, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Take a look.
Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor National Park, located in Devon, is a wild and rugged landscape known for its vast moorlands, granite tors and rich history.
The terrain of Dartmoor is its USP and is characterised by rolling hills, exposed granite outcrops known as 'tors', and deep river valleys. The area’s unique geology and climate create a landscape that is both beautiful and mysterious, often shrouded in mist.
The moors in Dartmoor are covered in heather, gorse and bog plants, while the rivers and streams support diverse aquatic life. Wildlife hat you can spot in this national park include the famous Dartmoor ponies, which roam freely across the moors plus deer, foxes and a wide range of bird species, including buzzards and skylarks.
Hiking is extremely popular in Dartmoor, with numerous trails that lead to the park’s famous tors, such as Haytor and Hound Tor (pictured below). The park is also known for its archaeological sites, including Bronze Age stone circles, ancient burial mounds, and the remains of medieval villages.
Cycling, rock climbing and horseback riding are other popular activities. For those who enjoy wild landscapes, we recommend a visit to the Foggintor Quarry (pictured below). It is a fascinating historical site located within the national park. Once a bustling granite quarry, the quarry is surrounded by steep granite cliffs, giving it a rugged, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The quarry floor has filled with rainwater over the years, forming a small, tranquil lake that adds to the site's beauty. We love this place.
Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park, located in southwest England, was officially designated as a national park in 1954. It spans across parts of Somerset and Devon, covering over 690 square kilometers. The park was established to protect its unique landscape and to provide opportunities for public enjoyment and outdoor recreation.
The landscape of Exmoor is incredibly diverse, featuring rolling moorlands, deep wooded valleys, dramatic coastal cliffs and fast-flowing rivers. One of its most iconic features is the high, open moorland that offers expansive views and is home to herds of wild Exmoor ponies. The park also boasts the highest sea cliffs in England at Great Hangman (part of Hangman Cliffs), providing breathtaking coastal scenery.
People visit Exmoor for its natural beauty, outdoor activities and wildlife. Key attractions include the picturesque village of Dunster with its medieval castle, the stunning Valley of Rocks near Lynton and Tarr Steps, an ancient clapper bridge (across the River Barle). The park is also a designated Dark Sky Reserve because of its unpolluted night sky thus making it a fantastic spot for stargazing.
Whether you're hiking, cycling, wildlife-watching, or simply enjoying the tranquil environment, Exmoor offers something special for everyone.
Lake District National Park
People visit the Lake District for many reasons. It's the largest national park in England, covers around 2362 square kilometres and is a fantastic place for outdoor activities.
There are 16 main lakes here, including the famous Windermere, Coniston Water, Ullswater, Derwentwater, Wastwater (the deepest lake in England at 243 feet) and Buttermere. These lakes are perfect for boating, fishing and kayaking. Windermere, the largest lake, is especially popular for cruises and water sports.
Besides the lakes, the park offers numerous trails for hiking and cycling. And there are numerous scenic driving routes like the Keswick - Buttermere - Keswick route which is aorund 30-35 miles and includes some of the Lake District's popular attractions.
The scenery is spectacular, with views that can inspire anyone. It's also a great spot for those who love photography or simply want to relax and enjoy nature. Whether you're an adventurer or someone seeking peace and beauty, the Lake District has something special to offer.
New Forest National Park
New Forest National Park was officially designated as a national park in 2005 and covers an area of about 566 square kilometers. It is one of the newest national parks in the UK but its history dates back over a thousand years, when it was established as a royal hunting ground by William the Conqueror in 1079.
The park’s landscape is a unique mix of ancient woodlands, open heathlands, grasslands and wetlands. This diverse environment is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including the famous New Forest ponies, deer and numerous bird species. The area is also dotted with charming villages, thatched cottages, and historical sites, giving it a distinctively English countryside feel.
New Forest National Park is for those who enjoy natural beauty, outdoor activities and cultural heritage. Key attractions within the park include scenic walking and cycling trails, the Beaulieu Estate with its historic house and motor museum and the beautiful Exbury Gardens. The best time to visit is in late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild, the landscapes are lush and green, and many of the park’s outdoor activities and events are in full swing.
Northumberland National Park
Northumberland National Park, located in the northernmost part of England, is the least populated of all the UK’s national parks. It offers vast, unspoiled landscapes and a sense of true wilderness. The park stretches from the Scottish border to just south of Hadrian’s Wall, encompassing a diverse range of environments.
The landscape of Northumberland National Park is incredibly varied, featuring rolling hills, ancient woodlands, rugged moorlands and dramatic river valleys. One of its most striking features is the Cheviot Hills, a range of high, rounded hills that provide sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The park is also known for its dark skies, being part of the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, the largest of its kind in Europe, making it an ideal location for stargazing.
Key attractions in this national park include Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that runs along the southern boundary of the park, and the historic forts and ruins associated with it. The park is also home to stunning natural sites like the Simonside Hills, and the picturesque village of Rothbury. The best time to visit the Northumberland National Park is late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild, the landscapes are lush and green and the conditions are perfect for hiking, cycling, and exploring the historical sites.
North York Moors National Park
Spread over 1,400 sq kms, North York Moors National Park in northern England was designated as a national park in 1952. It is renowned for its vast heather moorlands, which transform into a sea of purple during late summer. What a stunning sight it is! The park also features dramatic coastal cliffs, ancient woodlands and picturesque villages, making it one of the most diverse and beautiful landscapes in the UK.
This diversity of landscape offers a variety of experiences, from peaceful walks through serene forests to challenging hikes across windswept moors. The area is also rich in history, with ancient ruins, historic abbeys and old stone crosses scattered throughout the park.
Key attractions within the national park include the historic coastal town of Whitby, famous for the Whitby Abbey (explore the ruins and take in the beautiful coastal views) and connections to Bram Stoker’s 'Dracula', the steam-powered North Yorkshire Moors Railway and the enchanting village of Goathland, known to many as the setting for the TV series 'Heartbeat'. The best time to visit is late summer, particularly in August, when the heather is in full bloom, creating a spectacular purple landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see.
Peak District National Park
The Peak District National Park is located in central England, primarily covering parts of Derbyshire, but also extending into Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, and South Yorkshire. It was the first national park to be designated in the United Kingdom, on 17 April 1951.
The Peak District is characterised by its diverse and dramatic landscapes, including rugged moorland, rolling hills, limestone dales, gritstone edges, and picturesque valleys. It is divided into two main areas: the Dark Peak, characterised by its wild, open moorland and gritstone edges, and the White Peak, known for its limestone valleys, dales, and caves.
The park is home to a wide range of attractions, including stunning natural landmarks such as Kinder Scout (the highest point in the Peak District), Mam Tor, Lud's Church, Winnats Pass, Stanage Edge, Chee Dale and Dovedale. These landmarks offer breathtaking views, excellent hiking opportunities, and chances to explore the unique geology of the area.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including red deer, mountain hares, peregrine falcons, and rare species such as the Derbyshire Dales Whitebeam and the Bilberry Bumblebee (Bombus monticola). The park's diverse habitats support a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The Peak District National Park Authority operates several visitor centers and information points throughout the park, providing maps, guides, and advice to visitors. There are also facilities such as car parks, picnic areas, and toilets located at popular sites and trailheads.
There are loads of options to stay within the national park but if you are planning to head on an adults-only break to the Peak District, then we recommend checking out Longnor Wood Holiday Park. It is a 5-star adults-only lodge site with hot hubs in the Peak District.
The Broads National Park
In 1988, the Norfolk Broads were granted a status equivalent to a national park by use of the National Park and Access to the Countryside Act 1949. This also led to the creation of the Broads Authority, who became the equivalent of a National Park Authority but with some additional powers and responsibilities which included the management of the waterways.
Today, the Broads National Park attracts millions of visitors every year who come to enjoy its cultural and natural heritage as well as to enjoy UK's wildlife (a large proportion of which calls the Broads their home).
The Norfolk Broads National Park has a unique and captivating landscape. It has a vast network of rivers, lakes and wetlands where the surrounding terrain has been shaped over centuries by both natural processes and human activity. The Broads are home to a huge variety of plant life, including rare species of orchids, marshland grasses and water lilies. The area is also a haven for wildlife, with many species of birds, such as bitterns, kingfishers and marsh harriers, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Boating is one of the most popular activities here. The interconnected rivers and lakes are perfect for sailing, canoeing and cruising. A few years back we enjoyed a four day boating holiday on the Norfolk Broads and enjoyed every minute of it. Since then, I never fail to recommend this to friends and family. It makes for a wonderful and peaceful holiday.
Besides boating, visitors can also enjoy walking and cycling along the many trails that wind through the countryside, offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding wetlands. The Broads are also rich in history, with charming villages, windmills, and churches dotting the landscape. Whether you're exploring by boat, foot or bike, the Norfolk Broads offer a peaceful retreat into nature's beauty.
The South Downs National Park
South Downs National Park, located in southern England, stretches across Hampshire, West Sussex and East Sussex, offering a diverse landscape that blends rolling hills, ancient woodlands and chalk cliffs. The park is a natural haven in a region known for its bustling cities, providing a peaceful retreat for both locals and visitors.
South Downs is perhaps most famous for the dramatic white cliffs of Seven Sisters and Beachy Head, which provide breathtaking views of the English Channel. The area is also rich in history, with ancient hill forts, historic market towns and centuries-old farmsteads dotting the countryside.
For nature enthusiasts, there is lots to do in the park including the South Downs Way, a long-distance trail that spans 160 kilometers from Winchester to Eastbourne, offering spectacular views and a variety of walking, cycling and horseback riding opportunities. Other highlights include the medieval Arundel Castle, the vibrant town of Lewes, and the stunning Kingley Vale, home to some of the oldest yew trees in Europe. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild, the landscapes are green and blooming, and the conditions are perfect for exploring the great outdoors.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Yorkshire Dales National Park, located in northern England, is known for its picturesque scenery which is a mix of lush valleys, dramatic limestone formations and quaint villages. The park extends across North Yorkshire, Cumbria and Lancashire, offering a diverse range of landscapes that are both beautiful and historically significant.
The Yorkshire Dales is dotted with dry stone walls and traditional stone barns, which are iconic features of the Dales. One of the most famous geological attractions is Malham Cove, a large, curved limestone cliff that offers spectacular views. The park is also home to a number of waterfalls, including the stunning Aysgarth Falls and Hardraw Force, the tallest single-drop waterfall in England.
Popular activities in the Yorkshire Dales National Park include hiking, cycling and caving, with numerous trails like the Pennine Way and the Dales Way providing access to some of the most scenic parts of the park. Other attractions to visit include the historic Bolton Abbey, the Ribblehead Viaduct and the charming villages of Grassington and Hawes.
National Parks in Wales
Wales' national parks are a gateway to adventure and tranquility. From the towering peaks of Snowdonia to the coastal beauty of Pembrokeshire, and the rolling hills of the Brecon Beacons, these parks capture the diverse natural wonders of the country.
Brecon Beacons National Park
Brecon Beacons National Park in the UK is like a small paradise tucked away in the heart of Wales. Its USP is its diverse landscape, offering a mix of mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and open moorland all in one place. This variety means there's something for everyone, whether you're a hardcore hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll.
The geography here is fascinating. Picture rolling green hills that give way to rugged peaks, with picturesque valleys carved out by ancient glaciers. The park's highest point, Pen y Fan, stands proudly at 886 meters, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
As for flora and fauna, the Beacons are a haven for nature lovers. You'll find an array of wildflowers painting the landscape in vibrant hues during the warmer months, while rare plants like the iconic bluebell thrive in the woodland areas. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife too, from elusive red kites soaring overhead to playful otters frolicking in the streams.
Let's not forget the activities. Hiking is undoubtedly the main draw here, with trails ranging from gentle paths suitable for families to challenging routes that will test even the most seasoned adventurer. But that's not all – you can also try your hand at mountain biking, horse riding, or even caving for the more adventurous souls.
Personally, hiking in Brecon Beacons was a great experience - we loved the Pen y Fan and Corn Du Trail. There's something magical about being surrounded by such raw natural beauty, feeling the crisp mountain air fill your lungs as you climb the peak. It's a place that rejuvenates you and leaves you longing to return time and time again.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park boasts a diverse landscape. Along the coastline, you'll find rugged cliffs that plunge into the sea, sandy beaches perfect for a stroll, and hidden coves waiting to be discovered. Inland, the terrain transforms into lush green valleys and rocky outcrops, offering endless opportunities for exploration.
Tip: The best areas to spot the Peregrine falcons are the Castlemartin and Marloes peninsulas and the St Bride's Bay.
So, why do people flock to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park? Well, besides the obvious natural beauty, there's something for everyone here. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike along the coastal path, surf the waves, or kayak around the sea caves. History buffs can explore ancient castles and archaeological sites peppered throughout the park. And let's not forget about the simple pleasure of soaking in those breathtaking views.
In a nutshell, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a haven for anyone craving a dose of nature's wonders.
Snowdonia National Park
Spread over nearly 823 square miles, Eryri (Snowdonia National Park) is Wales’ largest National Park. The park, designated in October 1951, is the first of the 3 national parks of Wales. The main draw of Snowdonia? Well, it's all about the mountains, especially the big one, Snowdon. Towering over the park at 1,085 meters (3,560 feet), it's a hiker's dream and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the country.
The terrain in Snowdonia is diverse and rugged. You've got everything from craggy peaks to deep valleys and lush forests. And let's not forget the waterfalls! They're like hidden gems sprinkled throughout the park, tumbling down moss-covered rocks with a soothing sound that's music to the ears. Some of the popular ones are Aber Falls (pictured below), Afon Cwm Llan Waterfalls, Swallow Falls and Conwy Falls (near the village of Betws y Coed).
Snowdonia is a haven for nature lovers. You'll find rare plants clinging to rocky ledges and colorful wildflowers painting the meadows in spring. Keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels darting through the trees and majestic birds of prey soaring overhead.
If you think about activities, hiking is the big one here, with trails ranging from gentle strolls to challenging scrambles. But that's not all. You can also try your hand at mountain biking, rock climbing, or even kayaking on one of the park's many lakes.
We have visited Snowdonia a few times and you can take our word for it when we say that this truly is a place where adventure awaits at every turn. During one of our trips to Snowdonia, we visited the Llanfair Slate Caverns near Harlech. It was a fun experience.
Similarly, Portmeirion Village nestled in the stunning North Wales coast makes for a great day out too.
National Parks in Scotland
Scotland’s national parks are not only havens for wildlife but also excellent destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. From the towering peaks of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs to the rugged wilderness of the Cairngorms, these parks offer a stunning mix of mountains, forests, lochs, and rivers.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is a stunning national park located in Scotland, covering an area of approximately 1,865 square kilometers (720 square miles). It was established in 2002 and is Scotland's first national park. The park is named after its two most prominent features: Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater lake in Britain by surface area, and the Trossachs, a picturesque region of hills and forests.
The park is characterised by a diverse landscape that includes rugged mountains, rolling hills, deep glens, forests, and of course, the iconic Loch Lomond. The Trossachs, often referred to as the "Highlands in Miniature", offer stunning vistas and are popular among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
We recommend visiting the village of Luss which is located on the western shores of Loch Lomond. It is a conservation village that has many picturesque cottages (some were built in the mid-19th century), a kiltmaker and a bagpipe works.
The Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. Its close proximity to major cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh makes it easily accessible for day trips or longer stays. The park offers a plethora of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. These include hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, sailing, fishing, and birdwatching. There are numerous trails and paths catering to different skill levels, allowing visitors to explore the park's natural beauty at their own pace.
The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including red deer, golden eagles, ospreys, and otters. The diverse habitats within the park support a rich biodiversity, making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
The Cairngorms National Park
Cairngorms National Park spread over 4,528 square kilometres is a national park in northeast Scotland. It was established in 2003 and is the second of two national parks established by the Scottish Parliament.
The Cairngorms National Park is renowned for its rugged mountain scenery, with four of the five highest peaks in the UK located within its boundaries. The park's namesake, the Cairngorms mountain range, boasts dramatic peaks, deep corries, and expansive plateau areas. One of its most distinctive features is the unique alpine environment found above the treeline, known as the Cairngorms plateau.
The Cairngorms National Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year. These include hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, climbing, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
The area has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, historic castles, traditional villages and heritage sites, gaining insight into the region's past and heritage.
We recommend a visit to the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve (NNR). It is located within the Cairngorms National Park and is a mosaic of wetlands, woods and moors. It's a fantastic place for wildlife sighting and also to connect with Scotland's past.
The Cairngorms National Park is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. Its breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and wealth of outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and families alike. The park offers a range of accommodation options, including campsites, B&Bs, hotels, and self-catering cottages. If you enjoy glamping, then we suggest the Wigwam® Holidays Glenlivet site which is located in the Cairngorms National Park.
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