Great Britain has no shortage of outdoor adventures. While the land mass is relatively small, it is amazing how many incredibly beautiful outdoor places there are to discover on this island. You can hike, kayak, cycle, climb and fly your way around the country and have your breath taken away around every turn. Here are just a few of the highlights you must visit.
England
Glastonbury Tor. For a true workout of the glutes and epic sightseeing (what could be a more harmonious pair?), check out this isolated sandstone hill overlooking the Somerset Levels. Climb the steps up 158 meters to the roofless St. Michael’s Tower, which is the last vestige of a 14-century church toppled during the Dissolution of the Monasteries. This iconic landmark is rich in legend and mythological tales, and was a place of pilgrimage for Catholics in medieval times. It has been recognized as a holy hill for millennia. After your uplifting climb to the top, stop by the nearby town of Glastonbury for a hearty meal and a pint.
Yorkshire. With four, count ‘em, four National Trails, Norman castles and medieval abbeys, there is much treasure to experience. The Roman and Viking heritage is evident here, with many outdoor adventures to behold. One of the best things about these trails, other than the amazing scenery, is that you can hike them in sections with ease.
- The Cleveland Way is a 109-mile trail that snakes around the North York Moors from Helmsley to the coast at Filey Brigg. Along the way, there is much history and heritage to enjoy. The Tabular Hills Walk is a 48-mile section of the trail that is particularly challenging. If one were to do the entire trail, 9 days is recommended.
- Pennine Way is a 270-mile trail that begins in the Peak District and ends at Kirk Yetholm along the Scottish border. Trek through fantastic views, including the Yorkshire Dales, and through isolated countryside that requires careful planning and a knack for navigation if done all the way through.
- Pennine Bridleway is still being worked on and will be a whopping 350 miles when completed. It is the newest national trail, built especially for horse riders, off-road cyclists and walkers. Currently, the open sections includes 73 miles through Derbyshire to the South Pennines, the Mary Towneley Loop at 47 miles, and the 10-mile Settle Loop in the Yorkshire Dales.
- The Yorkshire Wolds makes its way through quiet fields over rolling hills. At 79 miles, it takes about 6 days to do the entire length. This trail is not too strenuous and is the easiest of the four national trails.
Where to Eat Along the Way. In Glastonbury, check out Bocabar, Who’d a Thought It Inn or Blue Note Café as a vegetarian option. All are cozy English pubs serving traditional British fare.
In Yorkshire, check out the website for accommodations and places to eat along the way.
Wales
Ziplining. You may have already tried ziplining, but chances are you have not ziplined as fast as 100mph. Zip World in Wales is home to Europe’s longest zipline – and the world’s fastest – all set against the Snowdonia mountain range. Here you will assume Superman position and get one of the best thrills of your life as you hurtle above the striking turquoise Penrhyn Quarry.
The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is another shining gem. Created specifically to showcase the dramatic coastline, here you can hike along rugged cliffs, wooded estuaries and inland hills. And oh, the puffins! There is a long-distance footpath that follows the coastline, but pace yourself! It is a whopping 870 miles long. Choose from over 200 circular walks and explore amazing wildlife throughout the journey.
Where to Eat Along the Way. At Zip World, recharge your batteries at the Bwyty Blondin Restaurant, which serves locally-sourced delights in a modern, bistro-style atmosphere. At Pembrokeshire, choose from fish shacks to fine dining, all serving the freshest produce and seafood.
Scotland
Scottish Highlands. Grab a mountain bike and pedal your way from coast to coast – a 249-mile adventure across the Highlands makes for an epic outdoor vacation. Make it a week-long expedition and wind your way through mountain passes, dense pine forests and stop for a hearty meal and a brew at a friendly pub. Then end the journey with a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean. The Hebridean Way Cycling Route spans the length of the Outer Hebrides island chain, and to do the entire route requires about 6 days, with places to eat and stay along the way. There are several cycling routes throughout the Highlands that each have their own breathtaking charm.
The Isle of Skye. Connected by a bridge to the mainland, this is an amazing landscape, ripe for exploring. Add some medieval castles and a charming lighthouse to the mix, and you have one heck of an outdoor adventure. The Isle invites the explorer in all of us. With guided safari hikes through the most scenic and remote areas of Skye, it is easy to check this one off your list. Take a wildlife tour and see eagles, red deer, otters, Pine Marten and seals. Or paddle board your way around the coastline and the infamous Eilean Donan Castle and other stunning locations.
Where to Eat Along the Way. Check out The restaurant at Uig Hotel at Isle of Skye offers an inviting atmosphere and locally-sourced food.
The whole of Great Britain is a veritable playground for the outdoor lover. This is just a small sample of the life-changing experiences you can have in her gorgeous countryside.