The UK is home to 15 stunning Ntaional Parks - spreading across England, Scotland, and Wales - each with its own unique beauty.
- 10 in England which cover 10% of the land area,
- 3 in Wales (covering 20% of the land area), and
- 2 in Scotland (7.3%). National Parks are large areas of land that are protected by law for the benefit of the nation.
Here is the full list of the UK National Parks and the year they were established (in chronological order):
1. Peak District (England) - 1951
2. Dartmoor (England) - 1951
3. The Lake District (England) - 1951
4. Snowdonia (Wales) - 1951
5. Pembrokeshire Coast (Wales) - 1952
6. North York Moors (England) - 1952
7. Yorkshire Dales (England) - 1954
8. Exmoor (England) - 1954
9. Northumberland National Park (England) - 1956
10. Brecon Beacons (Wales) - 1957
11. The Broads (England) - 1989
12. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs (Scotland) - 2002
13. Cairngorms (Scotland) - 2003
14. New Forest (England) - 2005
15. South Downs (England) - 2011
Peak District (England)
The Peak District is a true hidden gem, often overshadowed by the Lake District and Snowdonia, but it’s just as breath-taking. We highly recommend visiting Chrome & Parkhouse Hill for their unique, jagged beauty, and the dramatic landscapes of Winnats Pass, known for its steep, winding road through towering limestone cliffs. Mam Tor, with its panoramic views, is another must-see, offering a fantastic vantage point of the surrounding hills and valleys. Whether you’re hiking, cycling, or simply taking in the stunning scenery, the Peak District provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Highest point: Kinder Scout (2,087 ft / 636m)
Last visited in December 2024.
Here is our Top 3 Things to See & Do:
Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill
@TootlyTravels
One of the most photographed spots in the Peak District.
These hills - once coral reefs - have sculpted a very distinct landscape called by the locals: the ‘Dragon’s Back’.
🅿️ WHERE TO PARK?
The best place to park to hike Chrome hill is in Earl Sterndale (🆓 parking)
Postcode: SK17 0BX
Even though it's only 425 metres high, it can be somewhat challenging to hike it on rainy days due to its slippery terrain.
Details
Details
Mam Tor
@TootlyTravels
Locally known as the 'Shivering Mountain,' Mam Tor stands at 517 meters. This hill offers one of the best ridge walks in the Peak District. The circular walk from Castleton takes you over Mam Tor and along the Great Ridge, providing stunning panoramic views.
📍Castleton, Hope Valley, S33 8WA
Last visites in January 2025.
Details
If you're planning a trip to The Peaks, we have a complete map of the park with all our favourite places to visit:
Welcome to our Peak District map, your definitive guide to exploring one of England's most breath-taking national parks. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, an avid cyclist, a history enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to uncover hidden gems, this map is designed to help you make the most of your visit.
But that's not all! This is a dynamic guide, continuously updated with new places and deeper insights—all at no additional cost. Your journey keeps evolving!
Questions or feedback? DM us anytime, and be sure to tag us in your Peak District photos for a shared adventure! 📸 @Tootlytravels
📲 And it's more than just a PDF—it's an interactive guide! Click on any location to instantly access directions through your phone's Google Maps app, make restaurant reservations, or book hotels. For even more convenient access, download the free Thatch app.
Dartmoor (England) - 1951
Highest point: High Willhays (2,039 ft / 621 m)
Not yet visited (from research, this seems to be the least interesting national park in my opinion as nothing really stands out compared to a few breath-taking sites outside of the park within less than 60 minutes away like the Jurassic coast for example).
Details
Details
Details
Details
Details
The Lake District (England)
The Lake District is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning lakes, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. It's the perfect destination for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking tranquility. As England's largest national park, it is a haven for outdoor activities, from hiking to water sports. The park is also rich in literary history, having inspired famous poets like William Wordsworth.
Highest point: Scafell Pike (3,209 ft / 978 m). Last visited in November 2023.
Details
Castlerigg Stone Circle
@TootlyTravels
📍 How to Get There:
Castlerigg Stone Circle is located near the town of Keswick in the Lake District. Visitors can access the site by car via the A591 road, with parking available at a nearby layby. Alternatively, outdoor enthusiasts can embark on a scenic hike from Keswick, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding fells and valleys.
🕰️ When to Visit:
Castlerigg Stone Circle is a year-round destination, each season offering its own unique atmosphere. Visit during the spring and summer months to experience the site amidst blooming wildflowers and vibrant greenery, or visit in the autumn to witness the stunning colors of the surrounding foliage. In the winter, the site takes on a peaceful and mystical ambiance, offering a serene retreat amidst the rugged beauty of the Lake District.
💡 Good Things to Know:
Castlerigg Stone Circle is one of the oldest and most atmospheric stone circles in the UK, dating back to the Neolithic period, approximately 5,000 years ago. The site is believed to have been used for ceremonial and ritual purposes by ancient communities, and its exact purpose and significance continue to intrigue archaeologists and historians to this day.
Take a leisurely stroll around the stone circle and marvel at the impressive arrangement of 38 standing stones, carefully positioned in a circular formation against the backdrop of the surrounding fells and valleys.
Immerse yourself in the mystical ambiance of the site and let your imagination wander as you ponder the ancient origins and spiritual significance of Castlerigg Stone Circle. Take a moment to soak in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscapes and reflect on the timeless mysteries of the past.
📸 Best Spots for Photos:
Capture the timeless beauty and mystical allure of Castlerigg Stone Circle from various viewpoints around the site. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the impressive arrangement of standing stones against the backdrop of the surrounding fells and valleys, especially during sunrise or sunset when the site is bathed in golden light.
🌟 Why Visit:
Castlerigg Stone Circle offers a unique and unforgettable journey into the ancient past, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history, mystical ambiance, and breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply a nature lover seeking tranquility amidst ancient ruins, Castlerigg Stone Circle promises a memorable and enriching experience for all.
🔍 Other Facts:
Castlerigg Stone Circle is surrounded by stunning panoramic views of the Lake District's iconic peaks, including Skiddaw, Blencathra, and Helvellyn, making it a popular destination for photographers, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The site is steeped in folklore and legend, with tales of ancient rituals, mystical energies, and ghostly apparitions adding to its allure and mystique.
Castlerigg Stone Circle is a designated Scheduled Ancient Monument and is protected by law as a site of national importance, preserving its archaeological significance and cultural heritage for future generations to enjoy.
Details
Aira Force Waterfall
@TootlyTravels
📍 How to Get There:
Aira Force Waterfall is located near the village of Glenridding in the Lake District. Visitors can access the waterfall via a scenic walk from the National Trust car park, approximately a 1.5-mile hike through enchanting woodlands and alongside the picturesque Aira Beck.
🕰️ When to Visit:
The best time to experience Aira Force Waterfall is during the spring and summer months when the surrounding woodland is alive with vibrant colors and the waterfall is at its most impressive flow. However, the waterfall's beauty can be admired year-round, offering a captivating experience in every season.
💡 Good Things to Know:
Admission to Aira Force Waterfall is free for National Trust members, while non-members can purchase a parking ticket at the car park.
Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for navigating uneven terrain, as the trail to the waterfall includes some inclines and steps.
Take a moment to explore the surrounding woodland, where you'll discover ancient trees, moss-covered rocks, and hidden glens waiting to be explored. Keep an eye out for native wildlife such as red squirrels, woodland birds, and even the occasional deer that inhabit the area.
📸 Best Spots for Photos:
Capture the beauty of Aira Force Waterfall from various viewpoints along the trail. For an iconic shot, position yourself on the stone bridge that spans the cascading waters, allowing you to capture the full breadth and majesty of the waterfall framed by the lush greenery.
🌟 Why Visit:
Aira Force Waterfall offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat in nature or an exhilarating hike through stunning landscapes, Aira Force promises an unforgettable experience for all.
🔍 Other Facts:
Aira Force is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Lake District, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its beauty.
The waterfall cascades approximately 65 feet (20 meters) down a series of rocky steps, creating a mesmerizing display of cascading water and mist.
Aira Force is surrounded by ancient woodland, including stands of towering Douglas firs and majestic beech trees, adding to the area's natural charm and beauty.
Last visited in November 2023.
Details
and if you're planning a trip to the Lake District, we have a Complete 3 Days Itinerary
Embark on an unparalleled exploration of the Lake District National Park with our meticulously crafted and user-friendly Travel Guide!
🌆Escape the hustle & bustle of the city with a weekend getaway to the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking landscapes.
In our curated guide, we'll take you on a journey through the heart of the Lake District, providing everything you need for a memorable weekend retreat, from transportation options to accommodation recs as well as a carefully crafted itinerary.
While a weekend may seem too little to explore everything the Lake District has to offer, our ultimate itinerary ensures you'll make the most of your time, allowing you to experience the best of this destination.
📜 What's in store for you:
🚆How to get there & how to get around.
✅What to see & do: fares & how to get each destination
💤Where to Stay? (Our curated list of 5 accomodations for all budgets).
4. Top 4 tips for your perfect weekend getaway,
5. Our Weekend Itinerary
. Day 1: Keswick & Windermere
. Day 2: Buttermere & beyond
. Day 3: Coastal Roadtrip
But that's not all! This is a dynamic guide, continuously updated with new places and deeper insights—all at no additional cost. Your journey keeps evolving!
Questions or feedback? DM us anytime, and be sure to tag us in your Lake District photos for a shared adventure! 📸 @Tootlytravels
📲 And it's more than just a PDF—it's an interactive guide! Click on any location to instantly access directions through your phone's Google Maps app, make restaurant reservations, or book hotels. For even more convenient access, download the free Thatch app.
Unlock the Lake District's secrets and make your trip truly extraordinary. 🎉
Snowdonia (Wales)
Highest point: Snowdon (3,560 ft / 1,085 m)
Not yet visited (planning to visit in 2025)
Known in Welsh as Eryi
Details
Details
Details
Pembrokeshire Coast (Wales)
Highest point: Foel Cwmcerwyn (1,759 ft / 536 m)
Not yet visited.
Details
North York Moors (England)
Highest point: Urra Moor – Round Hill (1,490 ft / 454 m)
Not yet visited.
Details
Yorkshire Dales (England)
Highest point: Whernside (2,415 ft / 736 m)
Not yet visited.
Details
Exmoor (England)
Highest point: Dunkery Beacon (1,700 ft / 518 m)
Last visited in April 2024.
Details
Northumberland National Park (England)
Highest point: The Cheviot (2,674 ft / 815 m)
Not yet visited.
Details
Brecon Beacons (Wales)
Highest point: Pen y Fan (2,907 ft / 886 m)
Last visited in August 2024.
Details
The Broads (England)
Highest point: Strumpshaw Hill-South Slope (131 ft (40 m)
Last visited in June 2019.
Details
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs (Scotland)
Highest point: Ben more (3,852 ft / 1,174 m)
Last visited in April 2024.
Details
Cairngorms (Scotland)
Highest point: Ben Nevis (4,413 ft / 1,345 m)
Last visited in August 2018.
Details
New Forest (England)
Located in southern England, the national park spreads across Wiltshire, Dorset and Hampshire, and is just a 2.5 hours drive from London (or 2 hours from Bristol).
Highest point: Pipers Wait (423 ft / 129 m)
Last visited in May 2024.
Our top 3 Things to See & Do in New Forest:
- See the New Forest native Ponies & horses,
- Visit the villages of Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst
- Beaulieue
Details
Details
South Downs (England)
We spent a weekend in the South Downs National Park in May 2024 and highly recommend it! This national park - just a 2 hours drive from London - offers stunning landscapes, from rolling hills to dramatic cliffs, and a highlight was the iconic Seven Sisters with its breath-taking chalk coastline. Whether hiking along scenic trails or exploring charming villages, the park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With its serene atmosphere and diverse beauty, the South Downs is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of England's natural landscapes.
Seven Sisters
@TootlyTravels
Our visit to the Seven Sisters was unforgettable, and we highly recommend it! The views from the Coastguard Cottages at Cuckmere Haven were absolutely stunning, offering a perfect vantage point of the iconic chalk cliffs. The dramatic coastline stretches out before you, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for photography or simply soaking in the natural beauty. This area near Seaford (BN25 4AR) provides some of the best views of the Seven Sisters, and the surrounding landscape is perfect for a scenic walk or a relaxing day by the sea. Don’t miss it on your visit to the South Downs!
Details
* * *
