How many National Parks are there in the UK?
National Parks in the UK are located in England, Wales, and Scotland. Overall, there are 15 such parks in the country. Out of these, 10 are the national parks in England, three are in Wales, and the remaining national parks are in Scotland.The List of National Parks in the UK
The significance of a national park in the UK goes beyond the beauty of nature. It is also about other aspects such as history, conservation, and science. Whether it is your first visit or not, visiting the following national parks in the UK will give you an invaluable experience:1. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Wales is popular among nature lovers for its stunning landscapes. Pembrokeshire is one of its hidden gems. The striking view of Pembrokeshire Coastline captures the heart and mind of nature lovers at first sight. Two hallmark features that set Pembrokeshire Coast National Park apart from other national parks are St. Govan’s Chapel and puffins. If you love fishing, you can consider going to the small town, namely Tenby, which is close to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
2. Exmoor National Park
If you go to North Devon, Exmoor National Park is a must-visit spot for its lush valleys, moor, and woodlands. It was the hunting place of kings and queens at one point in time. However, it is one of the star attractions among the top national parks in the UK at present. Two things that you would not want to miss on your visit to this park are the deer and the Tarr Steps that were built in the medieval age.
3. North York Moors National Park
The North York Moors wears a picturesque look in winter. In the winter months, it becomes the perfect spot for strolling. It is the ideal destination for those fond of walking on moorland and hills. While strolling is the best option to explore the National Park, you can also consider other options, such as biking or riding a horse. When you pay a visit to North York Moors National Park, another place worth checking out is Whitby for the quaint charm of Robin Hood’s Bay.
4. South Downs National Park
Do you like to go for long walks in the countryside, just for pleasure? If yes, South Down National Park is the place where you would want to be. Its terrain extends up to hundreds of miles and leads to the beach of Eastbourne. Cuckmere Valley and Seven Sisters chalk cliffs are located in proximity to it, and checking out both these places will meet your expectations. You can also have Arundel Castle and Amberley Castle on your bucket list, as they have historical significance.
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5. Northumberland National Park
Northumberland National Park has the highest number of castles. All of them are important from the archaeological standpoint. If you have an interest for visiting archaeological sites, this place has several spots worth checking out. These include Turf Knowe and Bamburgh, which is historically linked with the start of the Viking Age.
6. New Forest National Park
This is one of the best national parks in the UK. You can reach here with ease from the southern part of England. With firs and redwoods all around, it looks visually pleasing to the eye. Among other things, it presents the best opportunity to get close to nature. One of the hallmark features of this national park is its trails, especially the Sensory Trail. Besides, catching sight of a Forest Pony is another exciting possibility for which you might want to visit New Forest National Park.
7. Cairngorms National Park
This is the biggest national park in the UK. Wilderness and chilly weather conditions aside, the mountain range located in the central part of the Highlands is the centre of several highest peaks of Scotland. It houses 5 out of the six highest peaks in Scotland. Apart from exploring a wide variety of flora and fauna at Cairngorms National Park, you can also indulge in skiing. The mountain ranges remain covered in snow for the major part of the year, allowing visitors to put their ice skiing skills to the test.
8. Yorkshire Dales
Yorkshire Dales is replete with interesting features like stone villages, tumbling waterfalls, rushing rivers, and valleys with gentle slopes. It is surrounded by hills featuring limestone. Interestingly, the hills and other landmarks of the park are natural and have come into being due to the action of nature. Malham Cove, which is 70 metres high, constitutes one of the star attractions of Yorkshire Hills. Additionally, you can also pay a visit to Ribblehead Viaduct, which presents the engineering genius of the Victorian Era.