UK Places to Visit Before You Die
18th February 2014
It’s true that we very often miss something fantastic just because it’s right under our nose. Sometimes things have to be pointed out to us before we will even begin to notice them. This is why I wanted to share a few of my favourite UK places to visit before you die.
Devon
This magical county is a special brew of diverse landscapes, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, beaches and ancient buildings.
Dartmoor is a natural paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors. As well as laying claim to a UNESCO Geopark, World Heritage Site and Bisophere Reserve, it has five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The English Riviera includes Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, and it rivals the coastline of any European country. Uncover the rich maritime history or enjoy water-based activities such as canoeing and surfing. If you want some culture thrown into the mix, South Devon is alive with galleries and music festivals.
Where to stay
London
Our vibrant capital is home to one of the most iconic skylines in the world, not to mention the historic buildings, museums and beautiful parks, which are the lungs of the city. With places such as Regent’s Park, Richmond Park, Clapham Common and Hyde Park, it should come as no surprise that London is one of the greenest capital cities in the world.
It could take weeks just to visit each individual attraction, but if you are only staying for a couple of days then some of my recommended must-see sights would include the Natural History Museum, Tate Modern, The National Gallery, The Tower of London and The Royal Museums Greenwich. And, of course, no trip to London would be complete without taking in a West End Show.
Where to stay
Aberdeenshire
If you can’t get enough of dramatic coastlines, ancient fishing villages and cultural treasures, the thriving Granite City is sure to stimulate your senses. Embark on Scotland’s Castle Trail to discover some of the 17 castles and ruins that make up this inspiring route through impressive scenery.
The city of Aberdeen is a colourful and cosmopolitan hub but you will also find lots of characterful villages and towns scattered throughout the county. Royal Deeside, Banchory, and Ballater are just a few of the charming places to visit in Aberdeenshire.
Where to stay
Cornwall
Flanked by the Celtic Sea and the English Channel, Cornwall is one of the most idyllic coastal destinations in England, with miles of sun-bleached sands pounded by rolling waves. The endless beaches make Cornwall a perfect spot for water sports. One of the most popular beaches for sport is Watergate Bay, which even has its own Extreme Academy. With an exciting choice of activities to get the adrenaline pumping, no-one can deny this is one place that can’t be missed.
Where to stay
Buckinghamshire
Besides being home to the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Buckinghamshire is a typically English county that is easy to fall in love with. Stowe Landscape Gardens is an incredible historic site that is filled with temples, monuments, lakes and valleys, all wrapped up in a wealth of wildlife and secret gardens. The National Trust Cliveden is an unbelievable place to visit, with breathtaking gardens overlooking the Thames, you can explore pretty woodland trails and the giant maze.