With holidays abroad becoming something of a luxury for many families, now is a good time to explore the wealth of attractions on the doorstep here in the UK.
Perhaps for those used to jetting-off to warmer climates the variety that Britain has to offer might come as a surprise. But arguably the home countries have it all: from stunning landscapes to intimate villages, world-famous coastline to vibrant contemporary cities.
Durdle Door, Jurassic coast, Dorset
In Britain, it is easy to pick a holiday full with memorable and unique experiences. With a huge selection of accommodation from world-class hotels to characterful self-catering cottages, you can be sure of finding that perfect place in which to stay.
Here are ten un-missable attractions the UK has to offer:
1. Alderley Edge, Cheshire
Originally a Bronze Age burial mound and more recently the setting for Alan Garner’s timeless children’s fantasy stories, the red sandstone escarpment of Alderley Edge offers unrivalled views across the Cheshire countryside to the Pennines, while the copper mines below reveal four thousand years of mining history.
Mine, Alderley Edge
2. Beeston Castle, Cheshire
‘The Castle on the Rock’ is famous for its stunning landscape views across eight counties stretching from the Pennines to the Welsh mountains.
It’s a hefty climb to reach the top but well worth the effort and the woodlands trails around the castle are equally delightful.
Beeston Castle Gate, UK
3. The Jurassic Coast
Now a world heritage site, the Jurassic Coast spans over ninety miles of coastline from East Devon to Dorset and represents 185 million years of geological history.
From the coastal paths you can enjoy spectacular views of the coastline including the impressive arch known as Durdle Door. With peaceful bays and coves, not to mention fossil-hunting at Lyme Regis, this part of England is well-worth exploring.
Durdle Door, Jurassic Coast, England, UK
4. Lud’s Church, Staffordshire
Located in a wood known as Back Forest, Lud’s Church is an impressive one hundred metre long chasm some eighteen metres deep which was created by a landslide.
Reputedly the hiding-place of Bonnie Prince Charlie and Robin Hood, Lud’s Church is a spectacular diversion (and a place of cool relief on a searingly-hot day).
Lud’s church, Staffordshire, England
5. The Shell Grotto, Margate, Kent
Discovered in the 19th century the series of tunnels, which form the Shell Grotto, are intricately mosaicked with millions of shells.
Although the age and original purpose for the site is unknown, the magnificence of the grotto today cannot be underestimated.
Shell Grotto Margate, Kent, England, UK by Gernot Keller
6. Bodnant Garden, Conwy
Spectacular views across Snowdonia are afforded from this eighty-acre garden that is home to an extensive collection of plants from across the world.
The steep wooded valley, formal landscaped gardens, ponds and terraces make this a wonderful place to let your imagination (and the children) fly freely.
Bodnant Garden, Conwy, Wales
7. St Just in Roseland, Cornwall
A 13th century church with a 6th century Celtic history, St Just in Roseland is place of immense peace and reflection.
Set in semi-tropical gardens on the edge of a tidal creek, numerous delightful walks are available.
St Just in Roseland in Cornwall
8. Brimham Rocks, North Yorkshire
A fascinating and unique collection of rock formations forms the basis of this attraction, which also boasts stunning views over Nidderdale, and a maze of paths for walks through rural North Yorkshire.
Brimham Rocks, North Yorkshire by Rob Ellis
9. Fingal’s Cave, Isle of Staffa
The Inner Hebrides and the Isle of Staffa is home to the fascinating Fingal’s Cave, which translates from Gaelic to ‘Cave of Melody’.
Formed naturally from hexagonal columns, the cave can be visited by boat or on foot.
Fingal’s Cave, Isle of Staffa, Scotland, UK
10. Chobham Common, Surrey
A massive wildlife reserve which is home to over one hundred species of birds, twenty two species of dragonflies and endless ladybirds, butterflies and bees, not to mention foxes and deer, making this one of the finest examples of lowland heath in the world.
