Britain’s Best National Parks & Scenic Countryside to Visit
Britain is blessed with breath-taking landscapes, from rolling hills to rugged peaks, tranquil lakes to dramatic coastlines. As a passionate traveller and storyteller, I’ve had the joy of exploring many of these cherished locations—but there’s still more to see! While I’ve ventured through England and Wales, Scotland’s wild beauty remains firmly on my hit list.
Please see list below;
Lake District National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Lake District is England’s largest national park, covering 912 square miles of breathtaking scenery. It’s home to Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, and Wastwater, its deepest lake. The region is famous for its literary connections, inspiring poets like William Wordsworth and writers such as Beatrix Potter.
Top Outdoor Attractions & Hikes
- Scafell Pike – England’s highest mountain, offering breathtaking summit views.
- Helvellyn via Striding Edge – A thrilling ridge walk for experienced hikers.
- Catbells – A family-friendly hike with stunning views over Derwentwater.
- Buttermere Circular – A scenic and relatively easy lakeside walk.
Find the best hikes in the Lake District
Scottish Highlands (Yet to explore—on my list!)
The Scottish Highlands are the epitome of untamed beauty, covering vast glens, towering mountains, and legendary lochs. The region is steeped in history, from Glen Coe, known for its dramatic landscapes and tragic past, to Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak. The Highlands are also home to Loch Ness, famous for its mythical monster.
Top Outdoor Attractions & Hikes
- Ben Nevis – The UK’s highest peak, a challenging but rewarding climb.
- Steall Waterfall – Scotland’s second-highest waterfall, accessible via a scenic gorge walk.
- Buachaille Etive Mòr – One of Scotland’s most iconic mountains, perfect for photography.
- Loch an Eilein – A stunning loch with a picturesque castle ruin.
Cotswolds National Landscape
The Cotswolds are the definition of idyllic countryside—rolling hills, honey-colored stone cottages, and historic market towns. This 790-square-mile Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty stretches across multiple counties, offering quaint villages, historic sites, and lush meadows.
Top Outdoor Attractions & Hikes
- Cotswold Way – A 102-mile trail offering stunning countryside views.
- Broadway Tower Walk – A short but rewarding hike with panoramic vistas.
- Castle Combe Circular – A picturesque walk through one of England’s prettiest villages.
- The Rollright Stones – A historic walk featuring ancient stone circles.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
The Yorkshire Dales offer a stunning mix of limestone valleys, waterfalls, and picturesque villages. Covering 841 square miles, this national park is known for its rugged beauty, historic ruins, and quaint market towns.
Top Outdoor Attractions & Hikes
- Malham Cove & Gordale Scar – A dramatic limestone cliff and gorge.
- Yorkshire Three Peaks – A challenging but iconic hike covering Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough.
- Aysgarth Falls – A series of stunning waterfalls, perfect for a scenic walk.
- Bolton Abbey – A historic site with beautiful riverside trails.
Peak District National Park
Britain’s first national park, the Peak District, is a playground for adventurers. Covering 555 square miles, it boasts rolling hills, dramatic rock formations, and charming villages.
Top Outdoor Attractions & Hikes
- Mam Tor & The Great Ridge – One of the most famous hikes in the Peak District.
- Kinder Scout & Kinder Downfall – A historic and challenging route.
- The Roaches & Lud’s Church – A mystical woodland walk with dramatic rock formations.
- Monsal Trail – A scenic cycling and walking route through limestone dales.
Brecon Beacons National Park
The Brecon Beacons boast rolling hills, mystical waterfalls, and some of the best stargazing in the UK. Covering 519 square miles, this Welsh gem is full of adventure, from rugged peaks to hidden caves.
Top Outdoor Attractions & Hikes
- Pen y Fan – The highest peak in South Wales, offering stunning views.
- The Waterfall Circuit – A magical trail featuring multiple waterfalls.
- The Beacons Way – A long-distance route showcasing the best of the national park.
- Llyn y Fan Fach – A scenic lake walk steeped in Welsh folklore.
Snowdonia National Park
Home to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Wales’ highest peak, Snowdonia is a land of dramatic landscapes and rich history. Covering 823 square miles, it features rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and historic castles.
Top Outdoor Attractions & Hikes
- Snowdon via Pyg & Miners Track – The most popular route to the summit.
- Watkins Path Waterfalls – A hidden gem with stunning pools and cascades.
- Gwydir Forest Park – A beautiful woodland area with scenic trails.
- Betws-y-Coed – A charming village surrounded by fantastic walking routes.
