Both Ireland and the UK are known for great cities, a high sense of culture, fascinating historical sites, and gorgeous cityscapes. However, a massive part of the appeal is their natural grounds and endless miles of greenery. Sure, you can observe it from afar, but if you want the best, national and natural parks are the way to go!
So for your next vacation, check out our top 5 stunning parks to visit in the UK and Ireland – we guarantee the best time!
- South Downs National Park
We have a new one on the block! South Downs was only founded in 2010, making it England’s newest national park. Set in southern England, the area is nothing but gorgeous sights and impressive panoramas!
The park covers over 1,500 square kilometers, stretching across the counties of Hampshire, West Sussex, and East Sussex, so you have a better chance of access! The terrain is an extremely popular location, mainly for its wide variety of rare animal species and wild plants. You can even see the Adonis Blue Butterfly, a gorgeous little creature if you are lucky enough!
Adonis Blue Butterfly:
- Fairy Glen Valley
A bit smaller on the scale, Fairy Glen Valley park, located on the side of Parbold Hill, is still a great location to visit and more easily reachable than you might think. You would just have to get the train from London to Liverpool and carry on by public transport from there.
You will not find it overcrowded since Fairy Glen Valley park mostly appeals to residents as a great strolling and hiking trek. The terrain is very charming, with small cliffs and refreshing waterfalls. Combined together with ancient flora and fauna, it makes for the perfect afternoon destination, especially once you wish to distance yourself from the city noise.
We suggest setting some time aside just for Fairy Glen; upon closer inspection, you might recognize such woodland as the bluebells, wild garlic, ferns, and red campion. The vast biodiversity and comforting surroundings make the park one of the coziest ones in England!
Bluebells:
- Cairngorms National Park
Scotland has only two national parks, but they were plenty blessed! Cairngorms, the biggest national park in the UK, is not only impressive in size but also mindblowing panoramas, wildlife, and greenery!
It probably comes as no surprise that Cairngorms is a part of the Scottish Highlands – nothing can compare to the endless terrains of the most fantastic natural grounds in the UK. Even if Scotland was not on your primary itinerary, you might as well add it now! The national park serves as a complete disconnect from the outer world.
Deemed one of the top 20 places to visit in the world by National Geographic Traveller Magazine, Cairngorms National Park has everything a tourist could wish for. From castles to outdoor treks and expansive green lands to deers, it remains one of the best holiday locations in the UK.
Stag:
- Snowdonia National Park
Coming in hot at number four, we have the famous Snowdonia National Park. Officially a part of Wales, the park is one of the best places to visit for adventure-seekers and outdoorsy people!
Unlike other national parks in the UK, Snowdonia is made up of both private and public lands, so you will not be able to get absolutely everywhere. Do not worry, however, there is plenty to do as it is! Home to over 26 thousand people, the park is Welsh culture, heritage, and nature combined together.
If you enjoy trekking, we suggest some of the many deep, gorgeous valleys, scattered mountain peaks, animal-watching, or a simple walk around the area. If you are up for some numbers, we can provide you with these: 1497 miles of the route, 11 thousand hectares of nature, 23 miles of coastline, and 9 mountain ranges! If you are impressed now, just wait till you get there!
Snowdonia National Park:
- Connemara National Park
Lastly, let’s explore the legendary natural terrain that brings people to their knees, an Irish signature mark, a part of all top-rated tours to Ireland, and every traveler’s dream!
In one word – stunning. Connemara covers more than 2000 hectares of scenic mountains, the most beautiful hiking trails, an impressive variety of plants and animals, and clean, crisp air. Really, even the air up there feels differently!
Opened to the public in the 1980s, the national park only increased in terms of popularity and tourism. Certainly, the best part of County Galway, Connemara, is a Pinterest-worthy picture of endless woodlands, grasslands, wild animals, and the most beautiful oasis.
Whatever you do, do not miss it. The sights are incomparable, and you will never feel freer!
Connemara National Park:
See these five beauties found in Ireland and the UK and remember to take pictures! While an image could never compare to the real thing, it might be nice to bring back some memories from the most beautiful places in Ireland and the UK. So, pack your bags and a nice pair of hiking shoes, and off on a journey!