10 great outdoor destinations – and their British twins

10 great outdoor destinations – and their British twins

From Alpine-like peaks to the beauty of the Basque Country, there is a world of wonder here at home

It's strange that we Brits like to be self-deprecating in a place literally called Great. We as a nation tend to view blind ambition and ostentatious success with slight disdain. We value modesty and restraint and rarely shout about our strengths.

It's understandable why so many of us forget the vast and diverse beauty here at home. From clear mornings on snow-capped peaks to fiery sunsets within reach, the UK can rival some iconic outdoor destinations.

Whether you choose camping, glamping or holiday cottages in the UK, there's a mini-adventure that's almost certain to surprise you. The hardest part is choosing.

1. Alpine views in North Wales

Dramatic mountains and majestic lakes dominate the landscape of North Wales. Towering peaks offer breathtaking views, while the Dragon's Backbone of the Cambrian Way offers hundreds of kilometers of sweeping seascapes.

Gail Johnson/ShutterstockSnowdonia is one of the best outdoor destinations in the UK

Head to Snowdonia in the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, the heroic mountaineers who trained in Wales for the ultimate adventure: the 1953 British Everest expedition. These may not be the real Alps, but their story is just as compelling and their views captivating.

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2. Mediterranean charm in Dorset

The Mediterranean is famous for its rugged coastline and clear blue sea. Luckily, Dorset's weather-carved coves and dramatic cliffs are equally exquisite. The coastline here is part of the Jurassic Coast, one of Britain's four World Heritage Sites.

Billy Stock/ShutterstockDurdle Door on the Jurassic Coast

Explore the stretch between Charmouth and Lyme Regis, where dinosaur fossils line the coast. Take time to see the dramatic rock formations of Old Harry Rocks, Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove and take a walk through the fossil forest to the magnificent Stair Hole.

Add chocolate villages, literary landmarks, fairytale castles and huge Iron Age fortresses and you have a worthy alternative to a Mediterranean break.

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3. Icelandic Drama in Lancashire

The wild valleys of Lancashire offer an untouched beauty akin to Iceland. Vast landscapes, untamed moorlands and endless waterways also offer a lot to climbers, skiers and sailors.

J Ellison Photography//ShutterstockAnglezarke Moor in Lancashire

Walkers will enjoy a varied landscape, from the flat plains in the west to the peaks and valleys of the West Pennine Moors and the Forest of Bowland.

Several long-distance walks are available, as well as the famous Pendle Witch Way, inspired by the Pendle Witches who were executed on the moors in 1612.

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4. Swedish loneliness in Northumberland

The Swedish wilderness speaks of myth, magic and lore, and Northumberland is no different. Here you will find a vast and remote interior with inland lakes, ancient castles and the famous Hadrian's Wall.

alt="Kielder Forest in Northumberland is a great outdoor destination in the UK">YoudDesign//ShutterstockKielder Forest in Northumberland offers a touch of Swedish solitude

The sprawling Northumberland National Park is considered England's last great wilderness, with 1,049 km2 of natural wonderland stretching to the Cheviot Hills on the Scottish border. It is the least populated national park in the country, which explains why it is also certified as an International Dark Sky Park, making it the perfect spot for stargazing.

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5. Californian dreams in Devon

We won't pretend to compete with California weather, but when it comes to surfing beaches, Devon is a great place to start.

Monicami//ShutterstockSurfers stroll on a beach in Devon

Head to the north coast village of Croyde for a break or two. All skill levels are catered for - from small waves for beginners to fast hollow tubes. Woolacombe also offers a gentle environment for those new to surfing.

Other outdoor activities include cycling, kayaking, horse riding and hiking in the more remote areas of Dartmoor, where large granite massifs offer peace and solitude.

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6. Basque Beauty in the Lake District

Rugged hilltops, mountain lakes and lakes of the same name characterize this picturesque part of England. Reminiscent of the Basque Country, the Lake District is by far Britain's most popular national park.

Stewart Smith//ShutterstockMorning light over Ullswater and the Helvellyn Range

Choose a Windermere Lake Cruise or explore the surrounding mountains, forests and open spaces on foot.

The Lake District is also known for its literary history. Among the many writers who found inspiration here are William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Arthur Ransome and Beatrix Potter, who used the proceeds from her first book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, to buy a 17th-century farmhouse on Hill Top.

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7. A touch of Tuscany in Suffolk

Tuscany is the epitome of the good life and is known for leisurely walks, good food and a rich artistic heritage. Suffolk, on the east coast of England, has a similar ethos, with picturesque villages that seem lost in time.

Nigel Wallace/ShutterstockThe sun sets over a grain field in Suffolk

Like Tuscany, Constable Country inspires artists and tourists alike. Emerald trees dot the county, bordered by 80km of magnificent coastline. Magnificent churches and stately mansions testify to its rich past, while the wool town of Lavenham offers particular interest to keen Harry Potter fans.

Walk the endless sandy beaches of Southwold, photograph the colorful cottages in Lowestoft and explore the county's wildlife paradise at RSPB Minsmere, the former home of BBC Springwatch.

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8. Beaches on the Gold Coast in Norfolk

With big skies, big dunes and wide open seas, the Norfolk coast resembles the beaches of the Gold Coast on a sunny day.

Masik0553/ShutterstockExpect extensive sandy beaches in Norfolk

It is said that locals here have “one foot on the land and one in the sea,” and that may be true for tourists too. From meandering inland waters to bird-filled coastal sandy beaches, you're never far from the water here. Surf, swim or sail in the sea or paddle through canals under cloudless skies.

The Norfolk Coast Path offers beautiful walking opportunities, while some of the UK's darkest skies provide excellent stargazing spots.

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9. Danish meadows in Yorkshire

Vast heathland and pristine starry skies give the Yorkshire hills a touch of Danish charm.

JaneHYork//ShutterstockPurple heather in bloom on the North York Moors

Optionally, climb the Yorkshire Three Peaks – Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-Ghent – ​​or take the steam train through the North York Moors.

In addition to verdant valleys and brooding moors, visitors will find an impressive range of history from Roman times to the 21st century, evident in abbey ruins, rugged castles and atmospheric towns and villages.

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10. Bordeaux vineyards in Kent

Bordeaux may be more wine than walk, but the views of the vineyards are worth a stop for even the most hardened hiker. In the heart of Kent lies Britain's answer to France's Bordeaux. Here you'll find picturesque rivers, historic houses and cathedrals and of course some of Britain's best wine.

Fair useBiddenden vineyards in Kent

The soil here is said to be similar to that of Champagne in France and is used for the production of a variety of grape varieties. As well as the wonders of winemaking, the 'Garden of England' offers two areas of outstanding natural beauty and some of the country's oldest castles, as well as the opportunity to visit golden sandy beaches in nearby seaside towns.

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Lonely Planet Great Britain is a comprehensive travel guide to the country, ideal for those who want to both explore the top attractions and take the road less traveled.

Lead image: Billy Stock/Shutterstock

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