National Parks in the UK (and which you should visit)

The national parks of the UK are some of the most beautiful areas to visit, especially if you planning a camping holiday. Read on to discover how many National Parks are there in the UK and which ones you should be sure to visit. Each of our recommendations will be sure to inspire and uplift you as you take in the naturally stunning scenery around you.

England

There are 15 national parks in the UK. 10 of these are found in England, scattered from the very southern tip up to the most northern region. Let’s work our way from the top starting with Northumberland National Park. Easily reached from the A1 or by rail, Northumberland offers scenic hills and valleys that stretch right to Hadrian’s Wall on the Anglo-Scottish boarder. Here you can enjoy activities such as cycling, bird-watching and walking. There are events held in and around the park throughout the year including adventure activities such as zip-wiring, zorbing (rolling around in a giant bouncy ball!) and rock climbing that the kids are sure to enjoy.

The Lake District National Park is home to the highest peak in England and is very popular with hikers. Water sports are also high on the agenda for some holidaymakers due to the park’s number of lakes making kayaking, sailing, rowing and windsurfing great activity options. Be sure to pack waterproofs for a rainy day as the Lake District is known for its changeable weather conditions!

North York Moors National Park has some stunning gardens. The Helmsley Walled Garden is well worth a visit and the Yorkshire Lavender is an area guaranteed to take your breath away. Awarded for its natural beauty, you can enjoy the sights and smells of the purple flowers as well as admire artistic sculptures and visit the Deer Park. And be sure to enjoy a homemade lavender scone in the tearoom!

The Peak District National Park is accessible by car, but you can just as easily get the bus or train which provide suitable services to various areas of the park. There are all sorts of family-friendly events taking place year round including bush craft lessons, raft building and learning about insects. There is the annual ‘Bakewell Show’ which is the largest agricultural show in the UK. Here, children can get close to farm animals and enjoy the variety of entertainment and fairground rides.

New Forest National Park in the South of England is ideal for cyclers, walkers and horse-riders. With ample facilities for camping, the whole family can enjoy spotting wildlife in the woodlands and enjoy a steam train ride in the stunning Exbury Gardens. Dartmoor National Park in the South of England holds a number of village shows, concerts, carnivals and guided walks throughout the year with great camping options. Enjoy a ‘Bat Walk’ where you explore dark caves to catch a glimpse of thee night-time creatures. The kids will love it and it’s free of charge! Other national parks in the UK include the Yorkshire Dales, South Downs, Exmoor and Norfolk Broads National Parks.

Scotland

There are 2 national parks in Scotland. Cairngorms National Park is the largest in the UK and a wildlife hotspot. With mountains, ancient forests and moorlands, there are plenty of beautiful areas perfect for walking or cycling. You can also spot rare red squirrels or thrill-seekers can have a go at clay-pigeon shooting, archery, golf and white water rafting! As such a large park, you will find great areas to camp out. Remember to bring your walking boots, a map and suitable clothing in case the stunning mountains beckon! Loch Lomond National Park in Western Scotland is another wonderful space full of activities to enjoy a family camping holiday.

Wales

Wales has 3 beautiful national parks. As the largest and probably most well known, Snowdonia National Park is a landscape of high mountains and idyllic villages. If you don’t fancy climbing Mount Snowdon, try taking a train ride to the top-a fantastic option if you have small children. The tranquil, picturesque village of Betws-y-Coed has some great shops and places to eat. It is home to the Tree Top Adventure where the children can enjoy a variety of activities including tobogganing, kayaking and an underground mining adventure! Snowdonia is ideal for a camping holiday with plenty of sites to choose from. Wales is also home to Brecon Beacons and Pembrokeshire Coast National Parks, which are also well worth a visit if you have the time.

The national parks of the UK have some of the best open spaces with stunning natural beauty you won’t find anywhere else! A camping holiday to any of the 15 national parks will leave you and the whole family feeling refreshed and uplifted.