The UK is one of the most diverse countries in the world. It has some of the world’s most beautiful national parks, bustling cities like London and Edinburgh, and picturesque coastal towns home to idyllic beaches. While you may have probably done the usual touristy stuff, such as visiting the Tower of London or listening to the chimes of Big Ben, there are many other ways to explore the UK in style. Here are some of them.
- Surf your way Down Cornwall
If you’re into surfing, make your way to Cornwall, a famous surfing spot not only in the country but in the rest of Europe. It juts out of the southwestern edge of the UK, dividing the Bristol Channel and the English Channel, resulting in two swell-facing coasts, each with prime conditions.
There’s no question that the most popular surfing area in Cornwall is on the northern shoreline, home to the iconic surfing towns of St Ives and Newquay. In Cornwall, you’ll find an incredible variety of waves. Newquay, the county’s surfing capital, hosts some of the country’s most prestigious surfing events. Some of the best spots for surfing in Cornwall are in the north, which includes Bude, Polzeath, Trevone, Watergate Bay, and Newquay. In the South, you’ll find Crantock, Porthtowan, and Sennen, the swell magnet of Cornwall.
Cornwall has four distinct seasons, and winter is when most surfers would come here. However, the best time to go surfing is in sunny spring, while during the hottest months, it can feel like you are riding the waves on one of the beaches of Puerto Rico!
- Follow the Canals of Warwickshire
A popular route for boating enthusiasts, the Warwickshire Ring will take you to scenic rural areas passing through famous landmarks like the Coventry Cathedral and Warwick Castle, with an option to visit the redeveloped Birmingham City Centre Canalside area.
The countryside of Warwickshire consists of a network of canals once plied by narrowboats transporting goods. Nowadays, you’ll find Warickshire narrow boats plying the canals, offering great escapes to Warwickshire’s waterways. One of the routes to take is from Wootton Wawen to Stratford-upon-Avon and back. Wootton Wawen is a beautiful village famous for its Saxon church. From here, head south to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. At 14 miles long, this southern stretch of waterway is suitable for a two to a three-day excursion, depending on how long you will stop to explore.
After departing the marina, you’ll come across some aqueducts, including Edstone Aqueduct, the longest cast-iron aqueduct in England. Then explore the tranquil waters that will take you towards the village of Wilmcote. Moor north of bridge 59 and make a short stop to stretch your legs and explore a bit.
- Take a Train Across the Highlands of Scotland
Voted as one of the UK’s best railway journeys, the West Highland Line is a scenic train route on the west coast, stretching from Glasgow to Mallaig. The stunning scenery you’ll come across along the way includes some of the UK’s highest peaks, the vast Rannoch Moor, and the silver beaches of Morar.
Harry Potter’s Hogwart’s Express appeared on parts of the West Highland Railway line in several scenes in the film, making it an exciting experience for Harry Potter fans. It passes through the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which treats passengers to the breathtaking views of Loch Shiel. Some of the last stops of this train route open to the enchanting islands of Muck, Eigg and Rum. When you take this train in summer, the journey from Fort William to Mallaig can be made more romantic by travelling on The Jacobite, a train run by a steam engine.
Consider spending overnight in Mallaig. Book a sea-facing room at the picturesque West Highland Hotel or at the Chlachain Inn where you can indulge in tasty pub grub while surrounded by beautiful views across the harbour.
- Glamping in the North Yorkshire Dales
Glamping in the Yorkshire Dales has become very popular lately. Yorkshire Dales is home to outstanding scenery, enchanting castles and abbeys set in a relaxing, laidback atmosphere. At the heart of Yorkshire Dales are specially protected areas – the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
When searching for stylish glamping in Yorkshire, the Yorkshire Dales is sure to come up in your search. The area has lots of glamping sites ready to welcome visitors who want to experience luxury while surrounded by nature. You can choose from a wide range of accommodations, from tipis to yurts, bell tents, and camping pods. There are also unique stays, such as a treehouse and a boathouse. Indeed, glamping in Yorkshire Dales is a truly unforgettable experience.
Whatever your budget, you will find a glamping site in Yorkshire that will suit your taste and preferences. Whether you’re a family seeking pet-friendly campsites or couples looking for romantic glamping accommodation in the middle of the woods, your options are limitless. What’s more, glamping is a year-round activity in Yorkshire!
- Cycle Around the Best Pubs in Wales
If there is one thing Wales is good at, it’s the pubs. Thus, one of the most unique ways to explore the UK is to cycle around the best pubs in Wales. Regardless of your preferences, you are sure to find the pub that’s right for you.
Wales may be largely rural, but thanks to its rugged terrain, it is a county full of adventures. As a result, you will find cosy pubs and accommodations along its cycling routes that not only welcome cyclists but also have a fireplace where you can warm up and relax before heading to your next destination.
Most Welsh villages typically have everything a cyclist would need for a stop-off, making it even easier to plan long-distance cycling routes. For gentle day rides, cycle along rivers through mountain valleys or explore the southern coastline, home to beautiful beaches and excellent pubs. The mountains are what entice many cyclists to explore Wales. For instance, the Brecon Beacons offer various cycling trails and terrains, from mountain passes to evergreen forests.