The UK’s Five Most Beautiful National Parks
The United Kingdom, though small, offers a rich diversity of landscapes. This is evident in its 15 national parks scattered across England, Scotland, and Wales. From the towering peaks of the Cairngorms to the serene waterways of the Broads, these parks showcase the country’s natural beauty. Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, which established these protected areas, we delve into the history and allure of the UK’s national parks.
A Brief History of the UK’s National Parks
The National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 led to the creation of the UK’s national parks, starting with the Peak District in 1951. This legislation ensured public access to open countryside while protecting areas of immense natural beauty and wildlife. Inspired by the United States’ Yellowstone National Park, the UK’s national parks emerged from long-standing political efforts to provide urban populations with natural retreats.
Carey Davies, hiker, naturalist, and author of “National Parks Of The United Kingdom,” emphasizes the importance of these parks. “The Industrial Revolution made the British the world’s first predominantly urban population. It’s vital that people have breathing spaces and retain our connections to the land,” he says. The aftermath of World War Two further underscored the need for such spaces, offering a respite for an exhausted population.
Today, the UK’s national parks are cherished as places for outdoor activities and wildlife preservation. Davies highlights their role in addressing challenges like biodiversity loss, climate change, and overall wellbeing. Here, we explore five of the UK’s most beautiful national parks, perfect for adventures, wildlife, and relaxation.
1. Lake District National Park, England
A Blend of Sublime and Cosy Landscapes
Northern England’s Lake District is renowned for its striking contrast between dramatic mountains and serene lakes. This UNESCO World Heritage site, the UK’s most visited park, offers a mix of natural and human-altered landscapes, including stone-walled fields and sheep farms, a tradition dating back to the Vikings.
Cultural and Literary Significance
The Lake District has inspired numerous writers, from William Wordsworth to Beatrix Potter. “We think of mountains as inspiring, rejuvenating palaces rather than hostile wastelands, and that’s an influence from the Romantics,” says Davies. Visitors can explore Beatrix Potter’s former house and enjoy boat cruises on lakes like Windermere, Ambleside, and Ullswater. For a more adventurous experience, wild swimming and stand-up paddling are popular options.
Avoiding the Crowds
Despite its popularity, the Lake District’s vast 2,362 sq km area offers plenty of secluded spots for those seeking peace and inspiration.
2. Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, Wales
Dramatic Mountain Landscapes
Eryri, formerly known as Snowdonia, in north-west Wales, is celebrated for its rugged mountain terrain, making it ideal for climbing, scrambling, and adventurous walking. The natural architecture, including Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), the Glyderau, and Cader Idris, features jagged and angular formations.
Rich Natural and Human History
Eryri is home to Celtic rainforests and unique Arctic alpine plants. The park’s human history is equally captivating, with landmarks like Harlech Castle and ties to medieval Welsh stories from “The Mabinogion.” Legends, such as the belief that sleeping on Cader Idris turns you into a poet or a madman, add to the area’s mystique.
3. Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
The UK’s Largest and Wildest Park
The Cairngorms, the UK’s largest national park, spans 4,528 sq km in north-east Scotland. Its vast scale attracts hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its austere beauty, the park features kilometre-high granite plateaus and extreme weather conditions.
Unique Flora and Fauna
Despite its harsh environment, the Cairngorms support diverse wildlife, including snow buntings, ptarmigans, and mountain hares. The park also contains remnants of the ancient Caledonian forest, offering scenic walks through native woodlands. Efforts to “rewild” the area aim to restore native species and balance the ecosystem, with ongoing debates about reintroducing lynx and wolves.
4. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Wales
Varied and Dramatic Coastline
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in south Wales is distinguished by its rocky limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters. The park’s geological features are complemented by its rich human history, including megalithic stone monuments older than the Pyramids and Stonehenge.
Birdlife and Marine Adventures
The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with islands like Skomer, Grassholm, and Ramsey hosting puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. Underwater, colorful kelp forests and diverse marine life thrive. The 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers stunning coastal views, while kayaking and boat tours provide unique perspectives on the park’s natural beauty.
5. The Broads National Park, England
Britain’s Largest Protected Wetland
The Broads, encompassing the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads, is the UK’s largest protected wetland. This network of lakes, rivers, fens, marshes, and woodlands supports a quarter of Britain’s rarest wildlife species, including common cranes and Norfolk hawker dragonflies.
Serene and Secluded Waterways
The Broads’ flat, aquatic landscape offers a tranquil escape. Visitors can kayak through marshlands, hear bitterns, and spot otters in their natural habitat. Boating is a popular activity, with 125 miles of navigable waterways providing leisurely exploration opportunities. The park’s numerous windmills, some over 200 years old, add to its picturesque charm.
Coastal Beauty
The Broads also includes a section of coastline from Sea Palling to Winterton-on-Sea, where green seals are often seen at Horsey.
Conclusion
The UK’s national parks offer a diverse range of landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage. From the Lake District’s poetic charm to the rugged beauty of Eryri and the vast wilderness of the Cairngorms, these parks provide invaluable spaces for recreation and conservation. Pembrokeshire’s dramatic coast and the serene waterways of the Broads further highlight the country’s natural richness. As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act, it’s clear that these protected areas are more vital than ever for our wellbeing and the preservation of our natural heritage.
