Experience Majestic Landscapes of the UK | Top-10 Places to Explore

When people think about visiting the UK, images of London with its red-painted double-deckers, wonderful museums, perfectly manicured gardens, world-class restaurants, international music festivals, imposing palaces and buildings and of course numerous royal attractions immediately come to mind. But far away from the hustle and bustle of big cities and all the iconic landmarks they offer, the UK is also home to some of the most beautiful natural sceneries in the world.

From majestic cliffs and lush woodlands to picturesque meadows, rolling green hills and serene beaches, the UK boasts an array of diverse landscapes and is packed with gorgeous natural wonders. So, if you want to explore UK’s wild side and bask in the most spectacular views that the kingdom has to offer, here are the top places you should visit. 

Loch Ness

If you’re a fan of unexplained mysteries, you surely know about the legend of the Loch Ness monster, the mystical marine creature that is believed to inhabit the deep waters of Loch Ness, a freshwater lake near Inverness, and the largest one in the UK. Well, you can take a trip to the Scottish Highlands and see for yourself if there are any monsters roaming around.

And if you’re not going to spot the legendary creature, at least you’re going to revel in the dramatic scenery that the lake and its surroundings offer. If you happen to be in the capital, you can jump on the London to Edinburgh train, and then continue your explorations up north until your reach the Highlands, as you’ll be met with breathtaking sceneries along the way.

Snowdonia

The UK is renowned for its beautifully preserved natural parks, having no less than 15 such areas – ten in England, three in Wales, and two in Scotland – that combined cover nearly 10% of its surface. But since you can’t visit them all in one go, we suggest you start your natural park explorations with Snowdonia.

Snowdonia or Eryri is a region and a national park in northwest Wales, popular among hikers, cyclists and backpackers, as it features the highest mountain peaks in the country, steep river gorges, green valleys, and stretches of sandy beaches.

The Jurassic Coast

One of the most popular destinations in the UK will take you far back in history, 185 million years to be more exact, to the Jurassic and Cretaceous time periods. Located in Dorset and stretching over 95 miles between Old Harry Rocks and Exmouth, the Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where archeologic research has unravelled fascinating prehistoric remains, turning it into a hot spot for fossil hunting. But beyond the rich historic heritage, this geological marvel also surprises with its outstanding landforms and unique coastal views. 

The White Cliffs of Dover

Leaving Dorset behind, we head straight to Dover, to the White Cliffs more precisely, which offer an equally impressive scenery as the Jurassic Coast. The White Cliffs of Dover are not only famous for their spectacular natural features given by the solid wall of white rock with horizontal bands of dark-coloured flint. The striking views they offer are also a symbol of hope and peace, standing witness to some of the most significant moments in English history such as the return of British soldiers evacuated from Dunkirk in WWII.

Ben Nevis

When you think of the UK, snowy mountains are not exactly the first thing that comes to mind. However, if you venture northwest of the Scottish Highlands until you reach the town of Fort William, you’ll come across a magnificent peak that dominates all the land.

Rising 4,411 feet (1,345 m) above sea level, Ben Nevis is the highest peak in the UK and a magnet for tourists and locals alike. From its rocky routes to the stunning Steall Ban waterfall, exploring Ben Nevis will give you the opportunity to walk through the clouds and experience UK from high above.

The Quiraing

This next location will take you to the wild and wonderful Isle of Skye which you’ll find included in most Scotland tours, and for good reason. This quaint little island situated off the West Coast of mainland Scotland is dotted with medieval castles and picturesque villages and offers some of the best natural sceneries in the region. If you venture to the north part of the island, you’re going to come across the spectacular Quiraing. This ancient landslide that is still geologically active makes for an unusual landscape with breathtaking ranging from flat valleys to steep pinnacles.

Stonehenge

This list would not be complete without mentioning Stonehenge. Although this prehistoric monument requires no introduction as most people are familiar with it and its significance, it’s worth noting that it stands at the centre of one of the most remarkable archaeological regions in the world. So, it’s not just about seeing some massive rocks put together for some yet-unknow reason, but about stepping into a unique landscape with numerous ancient landmarks that will take you back in time.

Cornwall coastline

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters and sandy beaches, you don’t need to book a trip to the Mediterranean. You can have all that and more in the UK, in the beautiful county of Cornwall. Located in South West England and almost completely surrounded by waters, Cornwall boasts a splendid coastline that is no less spectacular than the Spanish or French Rivieras, with its rugged cliffs, scenic coves and superb beaches beloved by surfers and tourists from all over the world.

Cheddar Gorge

Measuring over three miles in length with a depth of 400 feet, Cheddar Gorge in Somerset, England, is a stunning limestone gorge and one of UK’s most outstanding natural landmarks. This unique natural formation is home to and wide range of plant species and wildlife, and beyond its majestic cliffs, it features an impressive network of subterranean stalactite show caves that are worth exploring.

Mayfield Lavender

Our final destination is just a short trip from London, near Epsom, and can be reached by car or public transport. But despite its proximity to the capital, Mayfield Lavender will have you wondering if you’re still in the UK or if you have somehow landed in the picturesque south of France. With infinite stretches of fragrant lavender fields, Mayfield Lavender will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a purple paradise.