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The Best Places to Connect with Nature in the UK

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Whether you’re looking for family days at the beach, hill walking or romantic landscapes, the UK has them all.  We’ve put together a list of some of the best nature places in the UK for you.

The stunning South-West of England

No visit to the UK is complete without a trip to the South-West. Famous for its rugged Cornish beaches (perfect for surfing!), the beautiful landscapes of Dartmoor and Exmoor and some incredible natural wonders (Durdle Door on the Jurassic coast of Dorset), the South-West has something for everyone.

Whether a family day out to Cheddar Gorge, formed over a million years ago, a discovery trip to the Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall or a day at one of the many beaches in Devon, Cornwall or Dorset, the day has to finish with a Cornish cream tea or a glass of Somerset cider!

Wales – rugged and wild

It’s easy to visit Wales from the South-West. Just 30 minutes’ drive from Bristol, the gateway to South Wales, the spectacular Severn Bridge, is a tourist attraction itself. 

Once you’ve discovered the sandy beaches of the south, from Swansea to Fishguard, it’s time to head north to visit Wales’ magnificent Snowdonia National Park. This dramatic natural park is home to Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales. And if you or the kids don´t fancy walking up Snowdon you can always hop on the mountain railway that runs to the summit. 

If you like culture and want to impress the kids, take a trip to Llechwedd Slate Caverns. This catacomb of caves lies deep beneath the Snowdonian mountains and will take your breath away.

Explore the Peak District

A 2 ½ hour drive from Snowdonia, another stunning National Park, the Peak District lies in the heart of the Derbyshire countryside. Walks, bike hire, horse riding, a visit to the caves of Poole’s cavern are just a selection of the things you can do with the kids to get close to nature. 

A peaceful meander around the beautiful gardens of the many stately homes in this area offers an insight into how the rich used to live. And for a touch of romance combined with keeping the kids amused, Haddon Hall, where Harry Potter was filmed, is a divine location to relax and enjoy the views of the Peak District.

The beauty of the Lake District

Heading north from the Peak District for 1 ½ hours will take you to the peaceful lakes of the Lake District. The inspiration for many famous artists and poets, this area of outstanding natural beauty is a wondrous sight. 

Lake Windemere, the largest lake, is spectacular and the perfect site for a family picnic or romantic stroll. If you love walking and amazing scenery then why not take a hike up Scafell Pike, the tallest mountain in England? If you’re not feeling energetic you can still enjoy the immense aura of Scafell Pike from the comfort of your hire car.

The Lake District is the perfect location to hire a bike with friends or family and explore the tranquillity of the English countryside. You can stop at the many picturesque villages and shouldn´t miss the World of Beatrix Potter. This character-themed attraction will delight both kids and adults alike!

Visit the wilds of Scotland

Head north and in a couple of hours, you’ll reach Scotland. From vast lochs to isolated castles and spectacular scenery, Scotland offers a range of natural attractions.

Loch Ness is home to the legend of the Loch Ness monster, Nessie, which many Scots believe lives in the depths of the loch. If you’re brave enough, you can take a boat trip on the lake, but beware – Nessie may be lurking!

For more outstanding scenery, Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK is an amazing sight. Often shrouded in mist and snow-capped, Ben Nevis was an active volcano that crumbled in on itself millions of years ago. 

Another of Scotland’s gems is the Isle of Skye. This enchanting island has a magical air and is perfect for a romantic day exploring. With rugged landscapes, dramatic clifftops, the crystal-clear waters of the Fairy Pools and the magical enchantment of the Fairy Glen, the Isle of Skye is unforgettable.

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Enjoy the outstanding beauty of the UK countryside when you hire a car and explore. You’ll find plenty of pubs and bed and breakfasts to stay in, so you wake refreshed and ready for the next leg of your journey.

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