With the announcement that lockdown measures are set to relax in the UK in time for the summer, it’s little wonder that hopeful travellers are anxious to get their summer holidays booked. With foreign travel still uncertain, it seems safest to plan for a UK staycation, so with that in mind we wanted to showcase some of the most magical places to stay in Great Britain.
Where are the most beautiful views in Great Britain?
Researchers from LNER asked the British public to vote on the most stunning views in the UK. We’ve included a list of the top 10 below, and it’s interesting to see that as well as land and seascapes, some of our cities’ iconic buildings have also made the cut.
- Loch Ness – Scotland
- Lake Windermere – Lake District
- The London Eye
- The Tower of London
- St Ives Bay, Cornwall
- Ingleton, The Yorkshire Dales
- Snowdonia, Wales
- Man O’War beach, The Jurassic Coast
- The White Cliffs of Dover
- Stonehenge, Salisbury
Two thirds of the nation have British beauty spots and destinations on their own personal travel bucket lists, so we decided to canvass some of the UK’s top travel bloggers for their favourites, to help you decide where to book for a UK holiday this year. Scroll down for their recommendations.
UK staycations recommended by travel bloggers
Soar Mill Cove, Devon
If you’re in the market for utter relaxation within beautiful surroundings and gorgeous views, Soar Mill Cove Hotel is well worth a visit. The hotel is located in the South Hams, near Salcombe and is tucked away on a rural Devon hillside with spectacular views over the sea. A National Trust coastal path is right in front of the grounds and it’s just a ten or fifteen-minute amble to get to the beach.
Jenny and her three boys had a great time enjoying the hotel facilities while we grown ups made the most of relaxing, enjoying a glass of fizz and gazing out over the stunning views from our sea-facing family suite.
Exciting views in Norfolk
From the Broads to the picturesque backstreets of Norwich, Norfolk is packed with wonderful views, but Cathy’s favourite part of the county is its coast. Huge open beaches, wild cliffs made for ambling along and what seems like twice as much sky as anywhere else in the UK, not to mention the chance to spot seals lolling and basking at certain times of the year.
Hidden beaches in Devon
With two coastlines, a national park and more than 450 miles of beaches, secluded coves and picturesque seaside towns you’d be hard pressed not to find a beautiful view in Devon, and this one at Scabbacombe Sands, Brixham is a belter! It’s a paradise for families who enjoy spending time with nature. Click on the link to find more secluded spots away from the crowds to enjoy a sea view and maybe a dip.
Baslow Edge, Peak District
With it’s green rolling dales and dramatic escarpments, a visit to the Peak District is all about the views. But what’s especially fantastic for families, is that you often don’t need to walk too far (or uphill) for a spectacular views, as many view points have a car park close by.
Jennyt says her favourite has to be the Baslow Edge walk where you can see down to the Chatsworth Estate on one side, and over to the Kinder Plateau on the other. Plus, the loop walk is only 1.6 miles and relatively flat.
Whitby is gorgeous for families
There are so many stunning things for families to see and do in Whitby, not least of which is Whitby Abbey. Erin says the English Heritage site is a ‘must visit’ when you’re in Whitby. The Abbey often have great activities on during school holidays as well. Read Erin’s post to find out exactly how much there is to do in Whitby for families.
Chocolate box villages and dramatic coastlines in Dorset
Dorset’s an amazing county to visit – of course it’s known for the miles of Jurassic coast (take your pick from smooth sandy bays or wild rocky coves for rockpooling). But head inland and you find the folded hills of the rural heartland where motorways don’t exist. Chocolate box villages, ancient market towns and thriving rural communities – something for every family. Check out Laura’s post on Dorset gems you might not know about.
Probably the most famous view in Dorset is Durdle Door. Coming in 17th in the UK’s favourite beauty spots, it certainly doesn’t disappoint.
Devil’s Bridge, Ceredigion
The first episode of Hinterland was filmed here, an incredible place full of ancient legend. The River Mynach crashes through the deep ravine of ferns and ancient oaks, so it is dramatic too.
Race down Jacob’s ladder, 100 crooked old steps, learn about how Devil’s Bridge got its name, and watch a 300 ft waterfall.
Conygar Tower, Dunster
As well as having the best views in Dunster – including the castle – Conygar Tower is home to some of the loveliest poetry. Simply scan the QR codes next to the tower for words written by local schoolchildren about the elements they live amongst. My kids loved the novelty of scanning to read the words.
More UK beauty spots to consider
Ben Nevis came in 11th on the list of the UK’s most beautiful views. Whilst no one could argue against its beauty however, it might be a trip best to reserve for when your children are a little older. Although there are plenty of things to do with younger children in the town, the views involve some serious hill-climbing!
More child-friendly – but equally stunning – views might be found at Cheddar Gorge, where families will find incredible caves to amuse children, or Robin Hood’s Bay on the Dinosaur Coast, both also on the public’s list of the best views in the UK.
Which cities have the best views in the UK?
Not surprisingly London holds two of the top ten spots, with the London Eye and the Tower of London at numbers 3 and 4. But one of the best views we’ve seen in London is from Tower Bridge. Not only do you get panoramic views of the capital, you also get to see what London’s streets look like right beneath your feet! Check out this post by Helen for more on what to expect from a trip up the towers.
Other beautiful city views making the list were York Minster, Westminster Bridge, and The Angel of the North in Gateshead.
Where are you planning to staycation this year?