Britain is home to some fabulous countryside but the jewels in its crown are undoubtedly its 15 National Parks, the country's 'breathing spaces' – areas of mountains, moorland, wetlands and coast where the environment enjoys protected status. The annual National Parks Week is a celebration of the Parks' natural bounty, and an invitation to experience them first-hand with a host of events and activities. So, here's a slightly random list of some of our favourite places to visit in Britain's wonderful national parks.
Aysgarth Falls
As Yorkshire Dales waterfalls go, these are not so much high and dramatic as wide and picturesque – plus they were the backdrop for one of the fights in Kevin Costner's 1990s Robin Hood romp.
Barafundle Bay
A bit of a schlep to get there, but this beach in Pembrokeshire is probably our favourite in the UK. Indeed it's sometimes hard to believe such a beach exists in the UK. The waters are as clear and ranked as highly as they come, and the surrounding pine trees and sand dunes give it an intimate, isolated feel.
Cairngorm Reindeer Centre
The only herd of reindeer in the UK who have free reign to roam around in their natural habitat – and because they're busy in December with important duties, it's best to plan your visit to the Cairngorms in the warmer months!
Climbing Wild
The views of the South Downs, one of Britain's best "breathing spaces", from the top of the tree canopy are fabulous, and you can even take a picnic up into the treetops for a lunch you’ll never forget.
Experience Exmoor
Outdoor activities to help tourists and locals discover the magical area around Exmoor and the North Devon Coast. They have an exclusive licence to access some of the trust's more remote tracks, exploring gorgeous landscapes, intriguing wildlife and rugged coastlines in a 4x4, with a luxury picnic en route.
Helm Crag
New to the Lakes? Then climb this dramatic rock path known as the “Lion and the Lamb” from Grasmere to a summit that's made for clambering about and shouting into the wind.
Hole of Horcum
An enormous amphitheatre on the North York Moors, several hundred feet deep and a mile across, boasting magnificent views. It's easily accessed from a nearby car park, but what any decent day demands is a walk right around The Hole, through heather moorland that bursts into a purple blaze in summer.
How Hill
A beautiful spot from which to explore the Norfolk Broads' quiet, hard-to-get-to corners, on various marked paths, and onboard the nearby national park-run Electric Eel – a boat whose regular trips among the high reeds and narrow channel are truly magical.
Mam Tor
known as the Shivering Mountain, this is one of the Peak District's most romantically dramatic hills, with an impressive approach through the steep, deep Winnats Pass.
The New Forest Tour
Who needs a car when the best way to get around the New Forest is by bike or on this environmentally friendly series of three circular summer bus routes? The Red route runs from Ashurst to Lyndhurst, Burley, Ringwood and Fordingbridge, Green goes from Brockenhurst to Lymington, Beaulieu and Lyndhurst, and Blue runs from Brockenhurst to Lymington, Keyhaven, Barton-on-Sea and Burley.
Browse some of our other guides and posts for great places to stay in or around the UK's national parks:
