AdventuresNW
The UK is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, from mountains to rivers and rolling countryside. With such a range of beautiful destinations on offer, it’s the perfect place for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re into running, cycling, hiking, or wild water swimming, there’s somewhere in the UK to suit every preference. Dive in to discover our top pics and recommendations for a fun-filled escape!
The Scottish Highlands
The Highlands are a historical region in the northernmost part of Scotland, stretching from Fort William to Inverness. Filled with towering mountains, various lochs, and lush green glens, the highlands offer plenty of fun outdoor activities.
Home to over 30,000 freshwater lochs, the Scottish Highlands are a hotspot for watersports. Loch Ness is perhaps the most famous of them all, located in the southwest of Inverness. This loch is famed for its myths and legends, and offers a peaceful stretch of water to kayak, swim, or enjoy a scenic boat ride.
For those who love to hike, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles, and a must for mountaineering enthusiasts. Whilst this hike is certainly a challenge, the panoramic views that reward you at the top certainly make it worthwhile!
Cairngorms National Park is the largest in the UK, offering stunning scenery, many diverse outdoor activities ,and unique wildlife experiences. Here, you can explore various forest paths, rivers, lochs, and friendly villages, spotting iconic highland cows along the way.
Wales
Wales is a haven for adrenaline junkies, offering everything from zip lining to hiking and trail running. Home to Snowdonia National Park, the Pembrokeshire Coast, and the Brecon Beacons, the country is teeming with heritage sites and opportunities for exploration.
Hiking is especially popular in Wales thanks to its range of mountains and coastal paths. Snowdonia National Park is one of the most popular sites, known for its rugged terrain and iconic Snowdon Mountain, which offers incredible views after a challenging 5-8 hour hike.
For those seeking a unique experience, try trail running in Wales, where an expert coach will guide you through the incredible Trans Wales route. This 100 kilometre trail from the English Border at Newton passes through the Cambrian mountains towards Aberystwyth on the west coast.
If you want a high-altitude adventure, explore the various attractions at Zip World Penrhyn Quarry, one of Wales’ most popular outdoor adventure parks. Set in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, Zip World boasts the world’s fastest zip line, sending you flying over the bright blue waters at super speeds!
The Lake District
The Lake District is an area of unparalleled natural beauty in the north west of England. Covering over 2,362 square kilometres, England’s largest national park is known for its scenic beauty thanks to the many lakes, mountains, and countryside pathways.
If you’re searching for the best places to stay in the Lake District, there are plenty of options to choose from. There are many charming villages dotted throughout the region, which are perfect for relaxing stays and coffee breaks between adventures. From the literary history of Grasmere to the charming markets of Keswick and the historic railway of Ravenglass, there are many places to explore.
There are countless hikes and walking routes to choose from in the Lakes, ranging from peaceful strolls to challenging multi-day treks. The Grasmere loop is a 3.6-mile flat walk around the lake with stunning views, or the 2-mile Buttermere Lake loop is another good option if you’re traveling with children for an easy day out.
For those who love a challenge, the Stickle Tarn and Langdale Pike offer a 5-hour journey up 500 metres of elevation to see expansive views of the landscape. Helyvellyn, Scafell Pike, and Skiddaw are also known for their difficult terrain and impressive panoramas.
Cornwall
Cornwall is a county in the South West Peninsula of England. Boasting exceptional coastal scenery, including white sand beaches, rolling green cliffs, and hilltop castles, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Surfing culture is especially popular in Cornwall, particularly in Newquay. Often considered the birthplace of surfing in the UK, Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay are the go-to spots for incredible waves. Try out a surf school here to learn the basics, or show off your skills in the annual summer competition!
The Eden Project in Cornwall is a popular attraction for visitors, offering a fun day out for the whole family. This man-made biosphere is home to botanical gardens, an indoor rainforest that replicates the tropics of South East Asia, and a sensory playground for kids.
If you’re seeking group accommodation in the UK, there are many incredible options to choose from in Cornwall. From beach houses to cottages and stately homes, there’s a property in Cornwall for every type of getaway.
The Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales is a National Park in northern England, home to a range of undulating landscapes. From waterfalls to rolling valleys and dark sky reserves, there are endless places to explore here for a run-filled escape.
The Ingleton Waterfall Trail is a fantastic day out in the Yorkshire countryside. Following a 7 km looping route, visitors will make their way through woodland, farmland, and dramatic limestone gorges, all while passing by a series of cascading waterfalls. It’s a scenic and moderately challenging walk, perfect for families and solo hikers looking for a mix of nature and tranquillity.
For cyclists, the Yorkshire Dales offer winding country roads and challenging climbs. The area has even featured in the Tour de France, so it’s no surprise that cycling here is both demanding and rewarding. Malham Cove, with its unique limestone formation, is a must-see whether you hike or ride there.
The Yorkshire Dales is a designated Dark Sky reserve, meaning its one of the best spots in the UK for star gazing. Pack a blanket, find a quiet spot away from the light pollution, and enjoy uninterrupted views of the cosmos!
Summary
The UK is a beautiful and diverse region, home to stunning landscapes and incredible scenery. With such a range of destinations to visit, it can be hard to choose where to go! We hope this article has inspired you to get out there and discover all the amazing places that the UK has to offer.
