With the temperature starting to warm up, lighter evenings, and summer just around the corner, many of us have been thinking about where to spend our holidays. According to research, almost three in five Brits opt to spend their annual summer break in the UK – a 2% increase on last years figures. So, what makes the UK so special as a holiday destination?
The UK is home to many areas of stunning natural beauty which can be enjoyed at some of the countries National Parks. The UK has 15 National Parks in total, and no matter what your interests are, you’ll always be able to find something for the whole family to enjoy. Whether it’s peaceful walks in the countryside, fun-filled trips to the beach, or hiking up in the mountains, you’ll never run out of outdoor activities to keep you busy. To help you decide where to spend your summer staycation, Motorparks Citoren Oldham have put together this helpful guide to all of the best National Parks that the UK has to offer.
Northumberland
Northumberland National park is a top choice for those of you who are looking to get away from it all in a peaceful countryside location. Located between the Scottish border and the industrial North East of England, it’s home to the remains of the famous Hadrian’s Wall which date back to Roman times. You can take a stroll along the Hadrian’s Wall path and walk amongst the wild goats which still roam the landscape.
Stargazers can take in the beauty of the night sky here, as Northumberland is home to the largest area of natural ‘dark sky’ in all of the UK. Its Dark Sky Park is protected from forms of artificial light to provide the truest stargazing experience – promoting astronomy in the region.
Dartmoor
Dartmoor National Park is the only park of its kind in the whole of the UK that allows ‘wild camping’. With an array of walking and cycling routes available, there are plenty of opportunities for you to make the most of everything the National Park has to offer whilst taking in breath-taking views of vast moorland and discovering the area’s rich military history. Providing a wild space to camp, you can pitch your tent in a space that’s perfect for your needs – something different to other National Parks, offering an opportunity to experience and discover new wildlife.
Cairngorms
Cairngorms is the largest National Park in the UK and is home to five of the highest mountains in Scotland. With 55 peaks standing over 900 metres, hikers will be in their element with the dramatic mountain landscapes – there’s plenty of walking routes available to choose from that showcase some of Scotland’s beautiful scenery.
With large areas of dense forest, the park is also home to a variety of interesting plants and wildlife. When visiting Cairngorms, you can expect to come across a quarter of the UK’s rare and endangered species, including the wildcat, the capercaillie and the mountain hare.
Lake District
The Lake District is officially the UK’s most popular National Park and World Heritage site – and for good reason. Home to the England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, the Lake District boasts tremendous views of some the most popular locations, such as Keswick, Derwentwater and Windermere. It’s no surprise it is the most visited National Park in the UK, with over 15.8 million annual visitors.
The Lake District is top of many peoples ‘must-visit’ lists. With around 16 main lakes, you can take to the water on your canoes and kayaks, or go scrambling down some of their waterfalls. If the water isn’t for you, then give one of their walks a go – there are a selection of routes suitable for all ages and skill levels. If camping in the great outdoors isn’t your thing, we recommend checking out the Cragwood Hotel. Located on the shores of Lake Windemere and surrounded by natural beauty, you’ll be well situated to enjoy the very best that this region has to offer.
Snowdonia
Snowdonia National Park is home to the tallest mountain in Wales, as well as more than 23 miles of stunning coastline. You’ll never be stuck for things to do, with sand dune backed beaches and rocky coves close-by to the impressive coastline, as well as steep river gorges and waterfalls. As a living working area, Snowdonia is steeped with culture and local history. The National Park houses picturesque villages with 26,000 local people – and over half of the population speak the Welsh language.
