We often take for granted how spectacular the British countryside is. There are picturesque hills, lakes and national parks right here on our doorstep. But have you ever visited them?
We can get so caught up in our routines that we forget to get out and explore. But with staycations on the rise, this is the perfect time to discover everything nature has to offer. It’s great for our mental wellbeing as well! Being amongst greenery, plants and animals can help reduce stress and make us feel more relaxed. So what are you waiting for?
There are 15 UK national parks in total. We’ve rounded up this list of UK national parks for you to visit this summer. All you need to do is pack your favourite Nakd snacks for the road, whether our new Almond Macroon Bar or Raspberry Chocolish, and take a bottle of water and you’re good to go!
Wales has some of the most stunning national parks in the United Kingdom. The Brecon Beacons are a mountain range in South Wales that has great walking trails. Each trail is given a grade to determine the conditions and difficulty of the walk so that you can choose the route that’s right for you.
For a really magical day be sure to visit the Black Mountains. Here you can explore the majestic caves and waterfalls that Wales has to offer. Or for a more tranquil day, there’s plenty of woodland and garden areas to relax and unwind. It’s pet friendly as well so be sure to bring the dogs!
Next on our list is the Norfolk Broads – the UK’s largest wetlands. This unique waterway is home to some of Britain’s richest wildlife so don’t forget to pack your binoculars.
There are plenty of boat rides you can book to enjoy the Broads. You could even hire a private boat and discover the national park for yourself. Pack a picnic with one of our Nakd Mixed Cases, make some non-alcoholic cocktails, and set sail for the perfect day with your family or friends!
The mountain range of Cairngorms is one of the most beautiful in the UK.They’re located in the eastern Highlands of Scotland and are associated with the mountain Cairn Gorm in the heart of this national park. Although this mountain is the namesake of the national park, it also boasts other mountain ranges such as the Angus Glens and Monadhliath. You can see all kinds of wildlife in this national park including birds such as the raptor and even red deer!
Devon is already a staycation hotspot thanks to its beautiful beaches, but it’s also home to Dartmoor national park. A stunning moorland, full of deep river valleys and forests landscapes, it’s a must see for any visitor. And if that wasn’t enough, it’s one for the history buffs! On these trails you will find Neolithic tombs, Bronze Age stones and medieval farmhouses, so you can pretend to be Indianna Jones for the day.
Exmoor is an extensive, scenic moorland that runs from west Dorset to north Devon and is one of the most visited moors in the country. Known for its gorgeous scenery, it’s a regular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike. It runs all the way to the sea where it is cut into ravines and glorious waterfalls. With its wide range of wildlife to observe such as otters and rare butterflies, it’s a great place to take family and immerse yourself in nature.
Often thought of as the Peak District’s wet counterpart, the Lake District is perfect for water lovers everywhere. Located at the heart of North Cumbria, the Lake District has long been a top British holiday destination. With gorgeous lakes, relaxing boat rides, spectacular mountains and quaint market towns, it’s no wonder tourists just keep coming back.
But did you know that it’s the UK’s largest national park? Home to famous mountains like Scafell Pike, and deep lakes like Wastwater, this World Heritage site has something for every land or sea lover to enjoy!
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs was the first national park in Scotland. It’s renowned for its special landscape that has lochs, coastlines and forests – something for everyone to see! The Trossachs is also home to a wide range of British wildlife including red deer and water voles.
If you want to use your sea legs then kayaking is a must do in these parts. What better way to view the landscape than from the calming, still lochs? Or take a gentle stroll up to the stunning Falls of Dochart to see the best of Scotland’s waterfalls in all its glory.
The New Forest is a great holiday destination for families and couples alike. Due to its cosy cabins, set in a beautiful forest backdrop, it’s the ultimate nature getaway. Perfect if you’re looking to escape the fast-paced city life – only 89 minutes on the train from London Waterloo.
In this UK national park you can see the horses, walk one of the 40 nature trails or cycle through the glorious hillsides. Located in Hampshire, it’s also home to some quaint villages and beaches so you’re never short of finding something to do.
The North York Moors are situated in north-eastern Yorkshire and have the biggest expanse of heather moorland in the UK. These moorlands have three rivers running through them: the Esk, Leven and Derwent so there’s plenty of river-based wildlife to look out for. The edge of the national park ends at the North Sea so you can take a dip in the sea after a long days walk – you’ll probably want your wetsuit though!
Northumberland national park is located in the North of England. So far north in fact that you can visit Hadrian’s Wall – a roman wall on the border between England and Scotland. These ancient ruins and historical sites are scattered all throughout Northumberland just waiting to be discovered. You get to walk through stunning scenery and rolling green hills to find them!
The Peak District was the first national park in the UK. If it’s an adventure you’re after then this is the place for you. Hiking, rock climbing, cycling, camping, caves and even alpacas, there’s so much to see and do. But of course, if it’s a relaxing stroll through nature you’re after then they’re are lots of hiking trails and guided walks you can explore at your own pace.
The Peak District is split into the ‘Dark Peak’ and the ‘White Peak’. The Dark Peak consists of moorland and gritstone, whereas the White Peak is full of bright white limestone. No matter what route you take, the scenery is sure to be stunning!
The Pembrokeshire Coast is a national park in Wales. Its name is a little clue to the amazing coastline you can visit. Sandy beach, blue sea, what more could you ask for? It’s the perfect place to relax, unwind and take in the sights. Or if you fancy a walk there are a number of local attractions. From Carew Castle, to Castell Henllys Iron Age Village and Tidal Mill, you are spoilt for things to do.
Another famous Welsh national park – Snowdonia. At the heart of a vibrant welsh community are rugged mountain ranges, beautiful lakes and even a medieval castle! If you want a little break from walking, you can hop on the Snowdon Mountain Railway and visit the must-see Mount Snowdon. Here you’ll see panoramic views of Snowdonia itself. It doesn’t get better than that!
Unsurprisingly you can find the South Downs on the South-East coast. This national park boasts a stunning hillside landscape, but is most known for its chalky white cliffs. These white cliffs typically overlook the sea, meaning you can combine a beach day with visiting a national park. Now that’s a fun day out!
Last in our list of UK national parks, we’re heading to the North of England. Yorkshire is renowned for its stunning wildlife and farmlands – as seen on Emmerdale! But, nothing gets more impressive then the Yorkshire Dales.
Made up of over 20 individual dales there’s plenty to see! You could explore every inch of one dale or stay for longer and see them all. These include popular destinations such as Wensleydale (famous for its cheese) and lesser known destinations like Ingleton Glens – home to a stunning waterfall. Whatever you fancy, this woodland wonder is sure to have it all!
There we have it! The 15 UK national parks for you to explore this summer. Whether you’re going on a staycation, or taking the time to rediscover your area, they are local gems hidden everywhere. So put your comfortable shoes on and get exploring! Then you can reap all the physical and mental health benefits nature has to offer.
If nature is your thing then checkout some of our other Nakd Blogs like how to grow your own fruit and veg without a garden. Or, if you’re looking for some more things to do at the weekend, see our date night ideas.
