Recharge and Unwind in the Best National Parks in the UK
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Reconnect with nature by visiting some of the best national parks in the UK. From the rugged Scottish Highlands to the lush English Lowlands, these parks are perfect for stretching your legs, breathing in fresh air, and admiring the UK’s stunning natural beauty. Remember to respect these precious green spaces by being responsible and considerate during your visit.
Whether you’re seeking a quiet rural retreat, an action-packed adventure, or something in between, these are the best national parks in the UK, as recommended by global travelers.
Best National Parks in the UK: New Forest National Park, England
Nestled between Southampton and Bournemouth on England’s southern coast, New Forest National Park stands out as one of the best national parks in the UK. This park showcases ancient oak trees, historic Elizabethan manors, and other significant sites. Its natural beauty and diverse wildlife truly captivate visitors.Discover the mushroom-picking paths and walking trails that weave through forests of birch and beech trees and heathlands dotted with wildflowers. Along these trails, you’ll find charming country pubs, perfect for a cozy break.
This lush landscape is home to a variety of wildlife, including rabbits, birds, badgers, herds of fallow deer, and the iconic New Forest ponies. To avoid the frequently busy main roads into the park, consider staying local at the grand Burley Manor, a perfect base for your adventures. Experience the exceptional blend of history and natural splendor at New Forest National Park, one of the best national parks in the UK.
Location
New Forest National Park is located in the southern part of England, nestled between the cities of Southampton and Bournemouth. It’s easily accessible and makes for a fantastic destination to explore the rich history and natural beauty of the region. If you’re planning a visit, consider staying at Burley Manor, a grand local accommodation that’s perfect for your adventures in the park.
Opening Hours
The New Forest National Park is always open and can be explored during daylight hours, 365 days a year. However, some forest car parks may have barriers that are closed at dusk to protect ground-nesting birds, during forestry operations, or in winter months.
Getting Here
Getting to New Forest National Park is quite straightforward! Here are some options:
BY CAR: From Southampton: Take the M27 and exit at Junction 1 (Cadnam), then head southwards into the New Forest. From Bournemouth: Use the A31 to reach the park. From the North: Take the A338 from Salisbury to Ringwood, or the A36 to Totton in the east.
BY TRAIN: The New Forest is well-connected by rail. Trains from London Waterloo, Southampton, Bournemouth, and other locations stop at stations like Ashurst, Beaulieu Road, Brockenhurst, and Sway1. The journey from London takes about 1.5 hours.
BY FERRY: You can take a scenic ferry journey from Hythe to Southampton or from Lymington to the Isle of Wight.
BY BUS: The New Forest is served by a public bus network, with routes connecting major towns and cities.
Where to Stay
Plan your trip in New Forest National Park, England.
Best National Parks in the UK: Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales
Discover why the Brecon Beacons is considered one of the Best National Parks in the UK. With its striking red sandstone mountains, ancient caves, and breathtaking waterfalls, this destination is truly awe-inspiring. The park’s grassy moors and limited woodlands provide uninterrupted views of the stunning Welsh countryside. One of the must-visit highlights is Pen y Fan, the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons, offering spectacular hikes and panoramic vistas. Popular walking trails lead to the rushing cascades of Waterfall Country and the historic castles dotting the landscape. During your exploration, don’t forget to savor the sweet delight of bara brith bread from the park’s charming cottage tea rooms.
For those craving more adventure, the vast caves and eerie chambers of Dan-yr-Ogof await your discovery. End your day by stargazing under the clear night sky and then retreat to the cozy Cribyn Lodge in Brecon town. This welcoming accommodation is the perfect way to conclude a day filled with the beauty and wonders of the Brecon Beacons. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or historic landmarks, the Brecon Beacons National Park stands out as one of the best national parks in the UK, offering something for every traveler.
Location
The Brecon Beacons National Park is located in South Wales, United Kingdom. It spans across the counties of Powys, Carmarthenshire, and Monmouthshire, covering an area of about 1,344 square kilometers (519 square miles). The park is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, rugged mountains, and serene waterfalls. It’s a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Whether you’re hiking up Pen y Fan or exploring the ancient caves, the Brecon Beacons has something to offer everyone.
Opening Hours
The park is accessible 24/7, 365 days a year. The Brecon Beacons National Park Visitor Centre, often referred to as the Mountain Centre, is open every day from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, except for Christmas Day when it is closed. On Christmas Eve, the centre closes at 3 PM.
Getting Here
BY BUS: From Cardiff to Newtown: The T4 bus runs daily. From Swansea to Brecon: The T6 bus runs daily. From Swansea and Neath to Pontneddfechan: The X55 Cymru Clipper service provides access to Waterfall Country.
BY TRAIN: Trains to Abergavenny: There are hourly direct trains from Cardiff on the Cardiff-Manchester line. Trains to Merthyr Tydfil: Trains run from Cardiff and Pontypridd every half hour, taking about an hour. Trains to Llandovery: Trains from Llanelli, Swansea, and Shrewsbury run four times a day on the Heart of Wales line.
BY CAR: From South Wales and Hereford: The park is within easy reach of the M4, M50, and A40. Use a route planner like the AA journey planner for directions and estimated travel times. From Outside the UK: Fly into Cardiff International Airport, which is about an hour away. If you’re flying into London Gatwick or Heathrow, you can continue your journey by train or road.
BY FERRY: From Ireland: Regular ferry services run to Holyhead, Fishguard, and Swansea
Where to Stay
Plan your trip in Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales.
Best National Parks in the UK: Lake District National Park, England
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District, ranked among the best national parks in the UK. This picturesque haven has inspired famous writers, painters, and poets like William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. Explore tree-lined lakes, majestic mountains, and nearly 100 lakes, tarns, and reservoirs, including Windermere, England’s largest lake. Whether you’re fishing, canoeing, or taking a wild swim in the chilly waters, the Lake District offers endless aquatic adventures. Prefer dry land? Enjoy leisurely walks around Tarn Hows, tackle Blencathra’s challenging ascent, or bike through the scenic Whinlatter Forest. For a cozy stay, consider Newby Town’s Knoll Country House, located right within the national park. Your unforgettable Lake District adventure awaits in one of the best national parks in the UK.
Location
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is located in Scotland, stretching across the regions of Argyll and Bute to the west and Stirling to the east. It is accessible from major cities such as Glasgow (about an hour’s drive) and Edinburgh (about two hours’ drive). This park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. For a more precise location, you can use the following coordinates: 56.2372° N, 4.7860° W.
Opening Hours
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. However, some visitor centers and facilities within the park have specific opening hours.
Getting Here
BY BUS: Buses and coaches are a great way to explore the area. Many bus services run in popular valleys like Borrowdale, Langdale, Grasmere, and Coniston. There are also shuttle buses from places like Keswick to Derwentwater and Cockermouth to Buttermere.
BY TRAIN: Mainline trains connect Oxenholme, Penrith, and Carlisle with London and Glasgow. From Oxenholme, local trains stop at Kendal, Staveley, and Windermere. There’s also a direct train from Manchester to Windermere.
BY CAR: If you prefer driving, the Lake District is accessible by car. However, parking can be limited in popular areas, so consider using park and ride options3.
BY BOAT: You can also enjoy the lakes by taking a steamer or launch boat cruise on Windermere, Ullswater, Coniston, Derwentwater, and more.
Where to Stay
Plan your trip in Lake District National Park, England.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Scotland
Experience one of the best national parks in the UK at Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, a true gem in Scotland’s landscape. This stunning park provides a wealth of activities for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring the lush woodland trails, paddling in the serene freshwater lochs, or enjoying the crisp Highland air, there’s something for everyone to appreciate. Be sure to look out for vibrant bluebells, majestic red deer, and soaring golden eagles within this verdant paradise.
After a day of adventure, rest and recharge at the charming Loch Lomond Arms Hotel located in the picturesque village of Luss. Embrace the tranquility and natural beauty that make this destination one of the finest national parks in the UK.
Location
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is located in Scotland, straddling the regions of Argyll and Bute to the west and Stirlingshire to the east. It is easily accessible from major cities like Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Stirling from the south, and Fort William and Oban from the north. The park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Opening Hours
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. However, some visitor centers and facilities within the park have specific opening hours.
Getting Here
BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT: There are regular bus services from Glasgow and other nearby towns. You can also take a train to stations like Balloch or Crianlarich and then use local transport or taxis to reach the park.
BY CAR: The park is accessible from major cities like Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Stirling. Follow the signs for Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park once you’re in the area.
BY BOAT: If you’re coming from the west, you can take a boat across Loch Lomond from places like Tarbet or Arrochar.
BY BIKE: The park is part of the National Cycle Network, so you can cycle to various parts of the park.
Where to Stay
Plan your trip in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Scotland.
Best National Parks in the UK: Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
Discover one of the Best National Parks in the UK by visiting the Cairngorms in the Scottish Highlands. As the largest national park in the UK, the Cairngorms offers a stunning landscape of lush woodlands, serene wetlands, towering mountains, and picturesque valleys. This expansive park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as watersports, cycling, skiing, golf, and the unique challenge of Munro bagging, where adventurers climb mountains over 914 meters high. Be on the lookout for rare wildlife, including Scottish wildcats, golden eagles, and possibly even wolves. If the weather isn’t ideal, you can take refuge in the cozy bakeries of nearby villages or explore the Royal Lochnagar whisky distillery.
Start your Cairngorms adventure in Carrbridge, a popular entry point just over an hour’s drive from The Highland Club by Loch Ness. Immerse yourself in this natural wonderland for an unforgettable experience in one of the Best National Parks in the UK.
Location
The Cairngorms National Park is located in the Scottish Highlands. It spans across Aberdeenshire, Moray, Highland, Angus, and Perth and Kinross. The area is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse outdoor activities, making it one of the best national parks in the UK. If you’re looking to start your adventure, Carrbridge is a popular entry point, and it’s just over an hour’s drive from The Highland Club by Loch Ness. Enjoy your exploration in this beautiful part of Scotland!
Opening Hours
Cairngorms National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. However, similar to other parks, some visitor centers and facilities within the park have specific opening hours.
Getting Here
Getting to Cairngorms National Park is quite accessible by various modes of transport:
BUS: With Local Buses: Various bus services connect major cities to the park, especially from Inverness and Aberdeen.
BY TRAIN: Inverness to Aviemore: The nearest train station to the park is in Aviemore, from where you can access various parts of the park.
BY CAR: Wih the A9 Highway: The most popular route, connecting the park from the south. A93 (Old Military Road): An alternative scenic route from Perth or Dundee. A95: From Moray, leading to Grantown-on-Spey. A90 and B966: From Aberdeen, heading towards Glen Esk. From Carrbridge: A popular starting point, just over an hour’s drive from The Highland Club by Loch Ness.
BICYCLE: Whit the National Cycle Routes: The Deeside Way and sections of the Speyside Way offer scenic routes into the park.
Where to Stay
Plan your trip in Cairngorms National Park, Scotland.
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