See the best of Britain in its National Parks

As well as diverse and ancient landscapes, the National Parks tell the stories of the communities that have lived within them for thousands of years, leaving a unique and indelible mark on each park’s character. It’s just over 70 years since Britain founded its first National Parks, opening up breathtaking vistas, rolling hills and tranquil lakes across England, Scotland and Wales. Even better, all are within easy reach.  

While some of Britain’s National Parks get all the headlines, if you go off the beaten path, you can discover magical landscapes and experiences, like these hidden gems…

Loch Lomond and Trossachs secret spot: Loch Katrine

While everyone has heard of Scotland’s Loch Lomond, don’t miss Loch Katrine, in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Enjoy a stunning waterside vista from the banks of this eight-mile (13km) loch, with the mountains reflected in its peaceful waters. Whether enjoyed on foot, by bike or by boat, this picturesque spot is a tranquil gem.

Lake District secret spot: Ennerdale Water

While everyone flocks to Lake Windermere or Coniston Water, Ennerdale Water is the Lake District’s most remote lake. Expect crystal-clear waters, wonderful forest walks and outstanding views. It can’t be reached by road, but a 10-mile (16-km) cycle path which connects it to Whitehaven.

Peak District secret spot: Thor’s Cave

The Peak District is one of the most popular National Parks, but you would never know when you’re standing at Thor’s Cave. Hidden behind the Staffordshire village of Wetton, it’s a grand finale to a countryside walk. Reached by a stepped path, the natural limestone cavern has an inviting entrance and stunning views of the valley below.

Snowdonia (Eryri) secret spot: Castell y Bere

As the home of the highest mountain in England and Wales, Snowdonia is one of the nation’s most popular National Parks. Leave the crowds and walk to the remote ruins of the medieval castle Castell y Bere. A wild, rugged beauty spot within Snowdonia National Park, the castle walls rise from a rocky outcrop in the Dysynni Valley, offering a chance to retrace the footsteps of Welsh kings of the past.

North York Moors secret spot: Hayburn Wyke

The North York Moors has rolling hills, deep wooded dales, captivating coasts, ancient abbeys, tumbling streams and timeless villages. Found along the Cleveland Way National Trail, hidden beyond deer-dwelling woodland, is the cove of Hayburn Wyke. It is a pebbled paradise, home to a host of shallow rock pools at the foot of dramatic cliffs.

Broads secret spot: Winterton-On-Sea

While Norfolk and Suffolk are popular holiday spots, the Broads National Park, with its 125 miles (200km) of idyllic waterways and endless skies, is extremely peaceful. Winterton-On-Sea is a picturesque British seaside village ideal for those longing for a taste of the quiet life, complete with sand dunes, seals and traditional thatched cottages.

Dartmoor secret spot: Wistman’s Wood

From its vast wild moorlands to imposing rock formations and river valleys that cut deep through the landscape, dramatic Dartmoor is a nature-lover’s dream. Within it, you’ll find Wistman’s Wood, an enchanting wood that belongs in a fairy-tale. Home to a carpet of deep green moss and finger-like branches of dwarf oak trees, it is a National Nature Reserve.

The Yorkshire Dales secret spot: Crackpot Hall

The Yorkshire Dales National Park is famous for its Three Peaks – Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough – popular with hikers. But for epic scenery with a side of local history, walk to Crackpot Hall. Tucked away at the foot of rolling hills, Crackpot Hall is the ruins of an 18th-century smallholding and offers staggering views.

The Pembrokeshire Coast secret spot: Marloes Sands

The whole of the Pembrokeshire Coast, with its towering cliffs and golden beaches, offers unforgettable views and experiences. But for a real slice of tranquillity, head to Wales’ best-kept secret, Marloes Sands. Enjoy its rock pools, crystal-clear waters and inviting sandy beach and climb over the rocks to Albion Sands, where a shipwreck emerges at low tide.

Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) secret spot: Sgwd yr Eira 

Do go chasing waterfalls in Waterfall Country, tucked away in the wild south-west of the Brecon Beacons. Sgwd yr Eira – meaning ‘falls of the snow’ in the local lingo – is one of the area’s most dramatic cascades and is steeped in legend. Hike the Four Falls Trail to reach it – you’ll pass Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn and Sgwd y Pannwr along the way. 

New Forest secret spot: Hordle Cliffs 

It’s not all about those glorious woodlands and heaths in the New Forest – did you know there’s over 40 miles (64km) of coastline to explore here too? Follow the accessible clifftop path from Milford on Sea to Hordle Cliffs for jaw-dropping views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. Bring a picnic for lunch with a view. 

Cairngorms secret spot: An Lochan Uaine 

Look out for fairies on your adventure to An Lochan Uaine, or the Green Loch. The lake’s emerald waters are rumoured to be thanks to fairies washing their clothes at night. Or, it’s because of algae or tree reflections… But we’ll stick with the more magical explanation. It’s a leisurely stroll here from the Allt Mor Car Park through Glenmore Forest. 

South Downs secret spot: Black Down Temple of the Winds trail 

Named after a Bronze Age bank, the Temple of the Winds trail takes you from Haslemere to the highest point in the South Downs National Park, following in the footsteps of Alfred Lord Tennyson. The Victorian poet loved these landscapes, and you might find creative inspiration from them too. Look out for the lovely beech hangar on your way back. 

Northumberland secret spot: Hareshaw Linn 

It’s hard to believe that there was once a bustling ironworks at Hareshaw Linn, with two blast furnaces, 70 coke ovens, 24 roasting kilns and other industrial buildings. Today, the sound of woodpeckers and squirrels is about as noisy as it gets, as you’ll discover on this peaceful stroll through ancient woodland. Look out for the rare ferns and lichen surrounding the waterfall, which have seen it designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. 

Exmoor secret spot: Bats Castle 

The climb up to this Iron Age hill fort is rewarded with stunning views across the Bristol Channel. It’s a well-signposted, four-mile (6km) walk from Dunster, with the chance to spot Exmoor’s famous four-legged residents, the Exmoor pony, along the way. You’ll also pass the medieval Gallox Bridge, once used by packhorses.