Wherever you stay in the United Kingdom, you are never far from truly breath-taking scenery. There are some places, though, that are particularly commanding – from the UK’s longest lakes to the highest mountains to the deepest gorges. Sometimes brooding, sometimes mysterious and always utterly magical, these must-see natural attractions will leave you spellbound.
For the ultimate luxury road trip, here are the UK’s must-see natural landmarks:
Ben Nevis
At 1,345m above sea level, the staggering Ben Nevis the highest mountain in the British Isles. Located in Inverness-shire in the Highlands of Scotland, it is one of the UK’s most stunning natural attractions and one that lures many seasoned hikers each year. If you don’t feel like scaling the mountain yourself, there are lots of places to go where you can enjoy great views of her, including Loch Linnhe at Corpach.
Wastwater
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Lake District lies Wastwater, the deepest lake in England. Filling the bottom of a beautiful horse-shoe basin overlooked by England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, the inky hues of Wastwater transform into glass on calm days to perfectly mirror the jaw-dropping surroundings.
Cheddar Gorge
No trip around the UK’s must-see natural attractions would be complete without a visit to the million-year-old Cheddar Gorge. The largest gorge in the United Kingdom at 3 miles long and 137m deep, it is nothing but impressive. For added intrigue, Cheddar Gorge is also where Britain’s oldest skeleton was found in 1903, dating from 7,150BC.
Loch Ness
The longest lake in the UK, Loch Ness is a must-visit natural attraction in Scotland. Full to the brim with stories and legends (some fact, some fiction, but we’ll leave you to decide!) it is awash with intrigue. At 22.5 miles long, the picnic and photo opportunities here are rife too. Just remember to keep your eyes peeled for the resident water-dwelling beastie!
Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove
Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are two of Dorset’s most beautiful beaches and iconic landmarks – and for good reason. A natural limestone arch, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durdle Door is the result of millions of years of coastal erosion. A natural work of wonder, it’s also pretty darn photogenic - perfect for picnics and sundowners in summer. Just around the corner, Lulworth Cove is equally as picturesque with a large natural harbour and crystal-clear waters.
Aber Falls
Located a little off the beaten track 2 miles from Abergwyngregyn village, the beautiful Aber Falls in Wales had to make it onto our list. Tumbling over cliffs of solidified magma millions of years old, this 40m waterfall makes for spectacular viewing – especially on a day after heavy rain. Accessible via a short walk, you can also visit nearby Rhaeadr-bach (“Little waterfall”).
The Giant’s Causeway
The Giant's Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, encompasses an area of around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. The fascinating result of ancient volcanic activity (or giants, if you believe local legend), this amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world’s most famous natural attractions and one that wows countless visitors each year.
Gaping Gill
In the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, you will find one of the country's most famous caves: Gaping Gill. At 100m deep, the cave holds the record for both the highest unbroken waterfall in England as well as the largest open-roofed underground chamber. Not for the faint of heart, the Bradford Pothole Club and the Craven Pothole Club organise a winch a couple of times a year to lower members of the public to the bottom of the cave and back.
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our luxury cottages around the UK here.
