England's National Parks
If you love glorious countryside and want to find some of the best areas in England in terms of unspoilt countryside and stunning vistas then a visit to one of England's National Parks comes highly recommended. England's National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are parts of the country which have received special recognition for the qualities of the countryside, wildlife and cultural heritage that they offer and as a result have received protected status.
Anyone who has visited or holidayed in one of the National Parks in England will know that these are indeed very special places.
The 10 National Parks within England are:
In East Anglia:
The Norfolk Broads
The Broads with their wetlands and waterways are renowned for their birdlife and stunning scenery. Best explored by boat, the Broads are a special area of Norfolk well worth a visit.
Along the South Coast of England:
The New Forest
For peaceful walks through forests and heathlands, the New Forest National Park is a great place to visit. Spot wild ponies and discover charming villages and market towns whilst in this part of the country.
South Downs
Popular with walkers, the South Downs National Park covers a vast area of Sussex and Hampshire and covers a landscape of valleys, fields and woodlands. Keen walkers visiting this area can follow the South Downs Way which can guide you along the route.
In the South West of England
Dartmoor National Park
Said to be the biggest area of wild countryside in Southern England, Dartmoor National Park with its moorlands and untamed countryside is a great place for wildlife watching, walking and cycling. Discover peaceful villages and market towns oozing with character on a break in this part of the West Country.Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park covers parts of Somerset and Devon and includes areas inland as well as coastal areas. With pastures, fields, woodlands, valleys and moorlands, Exmoor is a stunningly naturally beautiful place to spend time and enjoy the wonderful outdoors. There are numerous quaint villages as well as bustling towns to discover on a visit to Exmoor National Park.
In the North of England
The Lake District National Park
One of the most stunning parks of the UK, the Lake District National Park with its Fells, mountains and lakes is a mecca for keen walkers and sightseers. Boating is another popular activity in this park. With stunning bustling towns and quaint little villages the Lake District National Park has plenty to offer visitors.Northumberland National Park
Located in the very north of England is Northumberland National Park. Home to Hadrian Wall related attractions as well as some stunning countryside this national park is a beautiful area to explore. Take note though that parking fees are charged at many of the car-parks in the national park so remember to take plenty of coins with you when exploring this area.
North Yorkshire Moors National Park
Spanning countryside, woodlands, moorlands and even part of the Yorkshire coastline, the North Yorkshire Moors National Park is a diverse area with much natural beauty. For unspoilt landscapes, walking and cycling, the North Yorkshire Moors are a great place to visit.
The Peak District National Park
Home to the White Peak and the Dark Peak, the Peak District is known for its diverse landscape. Visit the White Peak and you'll discover green valleys and limestone hills along with fascinating caverns. In the Dark Peak this is where you'll find wild heathlands and a rugged landscaped. Walking, cycling and even pot-holing are activities on offer in the Peak District National Park. Reward yourself after your activities with breaks in the many charming tea shops and cafes dotted around the Peak District's villages and towns.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
With hills, valleys and farmlands, the Yorkshire Dales is a naturally beautiful area, perfect for exploring and enjoying the great outdoors. Waterfalls and fascinating limestone structures such as Malham Cove and the Limestone Pavement can be discovered when visiting this area of England.
For walking, cycling and wildlife watching, England's National Parks are hard to beat. Many also feature historical towns and villages, making these sublime places for sightseeing and enjoying the great outdoors. Tea shops, gift shops and cafes are common features at charming market towns within the national parks and enjoying an invigorating walk followed by a rest at a tea shop or country inn can be a great way to round off a morning.
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