National parks in the UK: National parks are protected areas and these areas are protected by the laws made by the government. These laws are made to protect the natural environment. National parks are special because they preserve stunning landscapes and wildlife for everyone to enjoy. In the UK there are 15 national parks of which England has 10, Wales has 3, and Scotland has 2 national parks.
Check the list of National Parks in UK below.
List of National Parks in UK
| Sl No | Park Name | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dartmoor National Park | England |
| 2 | New Forest National Park | England |
| 3 | South Downs National Park | England |
| 4 | Exmoor National Park | England |
| 5 | Broads National Park | England |
| 6 | Peak District National Park | England |
| 7 | Yorkshire Dales National Park | England |
| 8 | North York Moors National Park | England |
| 9 | Lake District National Park | England |
| 10 | Northumberland National Park | England |
| 11 | Brecon Beacons National Park | Wales |
| 12 | Pembrokeshire Coast National Park | Wales |
| 13 | Snowdonia National Park | Wales |
| 14 | Loch Lomond & the Trossachs | Scotland |
| 15 | Cairngorms National Park | Scotland |
Dartmoor National Park, England
Dartmoor National Park is a large park in Devon, England. this Park was established in 1951. This Park covers an area of 954 square kilometers. This national park has wide-open spaces with wild, hilly landscapes where Dartmoor ponies live.
This park is a perfect holiday destination and even more if you are interested in history because here you can see old castles, tombs, and farmhouses. There are many things to do in the Dartmoor National Park including kayaking, biking, walking, and riding horses.
Things to do in Dartmoor Park
- Take a refreshing swim in a natural pool at Haytor Quarry.
- Visit the unique rock formation made of granite called Bowerman’s Nose.
- Walk across an ancient bridge made of large stones at Postbridge.
- Take a refreshing dip in a hidden waterfall called Venford Falls.
- Visit villages in Widecombe-in-the-Moor known for its thatched-roof cottages and narrow lanes.
- Visit the ruins of a medieval village located at Hound Tor.
- Visit a historic castle, Castle Drogoand.
- Walk through the quaint village of Lustleigh, surrounded by scenic landscapes.
- Enjoy a walk around the picturesque Meldon Reservoir, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
New Forest National Park, England
New Forest National Park is known for its ancient woodland, heathland, open moors and wandering ponies. New Forest park is situated in southern England. It covers an area of 566 square kilometres. It became national park in 2005.
A unique landscape consisting of
- Broadleaved woodland (146 square kilometres)
- Heathland and grassland (118 square kilometres)
- Wet heathland (33 square kilometres)
- Tree plantations (84 square kilometres)
New Forest Park is also called the “world capital” for wildlife due to the diversity of rare plants and animals.
Things to do in New Forest National Park
- Visit the beautiful castle built on the seashore
- Visit the deer sanctuary and see these beautiful creatures.
- Have a walk on the Beaulieu River Trail.
- Do cycling in Rhinefield Ornamental Woodland.
- Roam around the Hengistbury Head
- Have a horse ride at Burley Villa School
- Visit the New Forest Otter, Owl and Wildlife Park
South Downs National Park, England
This is the newest national park in England and got the title of a national park in 2010. The area of this park is 140 kilometres and it stretches from Winchester in the west to Eastbourne in the east, crossing the counties of Hampshire, West Sussex, and East Sussex. This park is known for its beautiful rolling hills, chalk cliffs, and river valleys. The highest point in the park is Beacon Hill, at 290 meters (950 ft).
The South Downs is home to a variety of wildlife, including butterflies, birds of prey, deer, and bats. There are many things to do in the South Downs National Park, including hiking, cycling, horse riding, and fishing.
Things to do in South Downs National Park
- Take a walk around the pretty village of Amberley
- Hike on the Seven Sisters cliffs for amazing sea views
- Climb to see the beautiful hills of Butser Hill
- Visit the grand Arundel Castle
- Visit the Devil’s Dyke
- Enjoy the beach of of Brighton
Exmoor National Park, England
Exmoor National Park is situated in Southwest England and spans over Somerset and Devon. The area of this park is 693 square kilometres. It became national park in 1954. This national park is rich in prehistoric sites, medieval villages, and ancient castles. There are many things to do in Exmoor National Park including hiking, horseback riding, cycling, wildlife watching, and exploring historical sites. This national park is designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve and is perfect for stargazing.
Things to do in Exmoor National Park
- Travel on cliff railways and see the amazing views
- Enjoy your meal at Tarr Farm Inn
- Hike up to the top of the Dunkery Beacon
- Do stargazing
- Visit the Valley of Rocks.
- Visit the villages of Dunster
- Cross the historic Tarr Steps clapper bridge
- Take a trip to Lundy Island and spot some wildlife
Broads National Park, England
This national park is situated in England and spans over Norfolk and Suffolk. The area of this park is 303 square kilometres. It got the official title of a national park in 2015. Rarest species like the Swallowtail Butterfly and the Norfolk hawker dragonfly are found in Broads National Park. There are many things to do in Broads National Park like boating, walking, cycling, wildlife watching, and fishing.
Things to do in Broads National Park
- Take a boat trip to the rivers of this park
- Visit Horsey to see the wildlife
- Visit beautiful Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden
- Visit the historic Thurne Windmill
- Visit the St Helen’s church
- Visit the beautiful villages of Broads
- Take a ride on Bure Valley Railway
- Hike on the Wherryman’s Way for scenic views
Peak District National Park, England
Peak District Park is an oldest national park in the UK, established in 1951. It covers an area of 1438 square kilometres. The park is divided into two contrasting areas: the White Peak and the Dark Peak.
- The White Peak is located in the southern part of the park and this park includes limestone valleys like Dovedale, with its famed stepping stones, and Lathkill Dale.
- The Dark Peak is located in the northern part of the park and this park includes dramatic gritstone ridges stark moorland plateaus, and Kinder Scout.
The Peak District is easily accessible from many major cities in England, including Manchester, Sheffield, and Leeds. There are many things to do in the Peak District park including hiking, biking, climbing, caving, and camping.
Things to do in Peak District National Park
- Visit the beautiful villages of Edensor
- Take a walk on Mam Tor and see the amazing views of the hills
- Visit the town of Bakewell, famous for its delicious Bakewell pudding
- Climb up on the Bamford Edge
- Discover the dramatic Winnat Pass
- Go for a hike in the beautiful Cave Dale
- Take a wild swim at Three Shires Head
Yorkshire Dales National Park, England
Yorkshire Dales National Park is located in the Yorkshire Dales region and it is known for its beautiful valleys (dales) and rolling hills. This park was established in 1954. This park covers an area of 2179 square kilometres. There are many things to do in this national park including hiking, walking, cycling, mountain biking, and horse riding.
Things to do in Yorkshire Dales National Park
- Visit and experience the view of Malham cove
- Visit the beautiful Swaledale area, known for its rolling hills and sheep farms
- Visit the Bolton Abbey Estate
- Discover the underground caves of Yorkshire Dales Park
- Hike on the Yorkshire Three Peaks for stunning views
- Visit the Ribblehead Viaduct, a long railway bridge
- Drive through the Buttertubs Pass
- Explore the ruins of Fountains Abbey
- Walk on the Brimham Rocks
North York Moors National Park, England
This park is located in North-eastern Yorkshire, England. This park covers an area of 1,430 square kilometres. It was designated as a National Park in 1952. North York Park also boasts dramatic cliffs along the North Sea coast, rolling hills, and pockets of woodland. Species like Merlin, golden plover, and the Duke of Burgundy butterfly are found in this park.
There are many things to do in this park including hiking, cycling, horse riding, and exploring historical sites like ancient boundary stones and medieval villages.
Things to do in the North York National Park
- Hike in the mountains and see the sights
- Ride the North York Moors Railway steam train for a fun experience
- Visit the historic Rievaulx Abbey ruins
- Visit the fishing village of that area
- Relax and enjoy at the seaside in Scarborough
- Visit the Ryedale Folk Museum
- From the top of Sutton Bank see the amazing views
Lake District National Park, England
This park is located in Cumbria, northwest England. This park was designated as a national park in 1951. This park covers an area of 2,362 square kilometres. This park is known for its iconic glacial lakes that include Windermere one of the largest natural lakes in England. This park is home to a variety of birds like red kites and ospreys, red squirrels, and various wetland species.
There are many things to do in Lake District Natural Park including hiking, particularly challenging climbs like Scafell Pike, cycling, boating on the lakes, and exploring historical sites like Roman forts and medieval villages.
Things to do in the Lake District Natural Park
- Explore the beautiful Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in England
- Take a ride on the Ullswater steamer boat
- Hike up Scafell Pike, the highest mountain peak in England (for experienced hikers only)
- Walk around the Buttermere Lake
- Visit the town of Ambleside
- Visit the Whinlatter Forest Park, a vast area of woodland
- Hike to the historic Castlerigg Stone Circle
- Go for a swim in Blea Tarn
- Enjoy kayaking on Derwentwater Lake
- Enjoy your picnic at the beautiful Tarn Hows
Northumberland National Park, England
This park is located in England and bordering Scotland. This park was designated as a National Park in 1956. This park covers an area of 1,050 square kilometres. Northumberland has a diverse landscape including the Cheviot Hills, rolling moorland with Kielder Forest, and dramatic sections of Hadrian’s Wall. Birds like curlews, red squirrels, and various wetland species are found in this national park.
There are many things to do in the Northumberland National Park including hiking, particularly in the Cheviot Hills cycling, exploring historical sites, birdwatching, and horse riding.
Things to do in the Northumberland National Park
- Walk along a part of Hadrian’s Wall, a famous Roman wall
- Hike up the Cheviot Hills for amazing views
- Do cycling in the mountains
- Take a photo of the Sycamore Gap tree
- Enjoy the beautiful Hareshaw Linn waterfall
- Visit the Breamish Valley and discover its ancient fort
- Visit the Sill Discovery Centre to learn about the park’s history and nature
Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales
This park is located in the south Wales and considered a mountainous region. This park was designated as a National Park in 1956. Brecon beacons cover an area of 1,355 square kilometres. This park includes waterfalls, caves, valleys, plateaus, reservoirs, and sections of the Black Mountains. This park is home to species like ponies, red kites, peregrine falcons, and a diverse range of wetland birds.
There are many things to do in the Brecon beacons national park including hiking, particularly on trails like the Beacons Way and horse riding, mountain biking, exploring historical sites, and caving.
Things to do in the Brecon Beacons National Park
- Do visit Carreg Canon Castle
- Visit Waterfall Country, a land of hidden waterfalls
- Go rafting on the River Wye
- Try mountain biking on exciting trails through the hills
- Enjoy a night of stargazing(perfect on days with minimal light pollution)
Pembroke shire Coast National Park, Wales
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is the only coastal national park in the UK. This park was established in 1952. This park covers an area of 612 square kilometres of coastline, including the Preseli Hills and the Daugleddau Estuary. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is known for its beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs, and wildlife.
This park has several historical sites, including castles, forts, and prehistoric monuments. There are many things to do in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park including walking, hiking, camping, swimming, surfing, and kayaking.
Things to do in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
- Walk around the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
- Visit St Davids Cathedral
- Go surfing at Freshwater West
- Explore the beaches of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
- Skomer Island is a great place for birdwatching
- Visit the beautiful town of Tenby
- Visit the beautiful village, Laugharne also famous for being the home of the Welsh poet Dylan Thomas
Snowdonia National Park, Wales
Snowdonia National Park is a mountainous region and national park in North Wales. This park was established in 1951 and is the fourth-largest national park in the UK. This park covers an area of 2,130 square kilometres. This national park is famous for its mountains and the three famous mountain regions are the Snowdon Massif, the Glyderau, and the Carneddau.
There are many things to do in Snowdonia National Park including hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and kayaking.
Things to do in the Snowdonia National Park
- Climb Snowdon for amazing views
- Drive through Llanberis Pass for pretty sights
- Walk around Dolgellau town for shops and cafes
- Go for a walk by Llyn Ogwen Lake
- Hike Tryfan Mountain for amazing views from the top
- Take a dip in a Snowdonia lake
- Ride on the Ffestiniog train
- See animals in Ceunant Cynfal Park
Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, Scotland
Loch Lomond & the Trossachs are located in Scotland. This park was established in 2002. This park covers an area of 1865 square kilometres. The main attraction of this park is Loch Lomond, the largest lake in Great Britain by surface area. Red squirrels, deer, otters, and a variety of birds are found in this park. There are many things to do in the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs including hiking, biking, camping, sailing, fishing, or kayaking.
Things to do in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
- Take a nature walk to see the pretty mountains, lakes and forests
- Visit the beautiful town of Luss famous for its colourful houses and shops
- Try a boat ride like Kayak or paddleboard on the calm lake
- See funny animals on an island like small kangaroos called wallabies
- Find hidden waterfalls of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
- Have fun in park of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
- Cycle by the lake for pretty views and fresh air
Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
Cairngorms National Park is located in the Northeast, Scotland. Established in 2003, the second national park created in Scotland. Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the United Kingdom covers an area of 4,528 square kilometers. This national park is famous for its dramatic mountain ranges, including the Cairngorms themselves, with five of the UK’s six highest peaks exceeding 3,000 feet (Munros).
There are many things to do in the Cairngorms National Park including hiking, hillwalking, fishing, mountain biking, and stargazing.
Things to do in the Cairngorms National Park
- Take a scenic road trip for beautiful mountain views
- Explore the hidden gems like Badenoch, a lesser-known area
- Do mountain biking through forests and hills
- Visit the Highland Wildlife Park and see the scottish creatures like red deer and golden eagles
- Learn about the how scotland’s famous drink Malt Whisky Trail is made
- Visit the Ballindalloch Castle
- Cross the Old Pack Horse Bridge, a beautiful and old bridge
- Visit Rothiemurchus Forest, filled with tall trees and fresh air
Conclusion
In the United Kingdom, there are 15 beautiful national parks, each offering stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife for visitors to enjoy. From the ancient woodlands of New Forest to the dramatic mountains of Snowdonia, these parks are protected areas and they presere the natural environment for everyone to experience. Whether you enjoy hiking, cycling, wildlife watching, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, there’s something for everyone in these national parks.
People Also Read:
List of National Parks of UK
How many national parks are there in the UK?
There are 15 national parks are there in the UK
What unique landscape does New Forest National Park offer?
New Forest National Park offers ancient woodlands, heathlands, moors, and wandering ponies.
What are some activities to do in Dartmoor National Park?
Activities in Dartmoor include swimming, exploring rock formations, visiting historic sites, and enjoying outdoor adventures.
What is special about Cairngorms National Park?
Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the UK.