With all the talk of Freedom Day we thought we’d take a look at a few of the awesome places to explore in the UK. As lovers of the outdoors we’ve always felt free to explore, even during the strictest of lockdowns we were still permitted to go outside to exercise and even that gave us a chance to explore our own area, walk down that road we never had, take in a view we’d always drove past but never had time to look at.
Many of us don’t fancy a flight this year, we respect those that do but many are staying put and it’s all about the big UK Staycation this year and what a fabulous place to explore.
Head south and you’ll find the Jurassic Coast England’s only natural World Heritage Site and features rocks and fossils dating back 185 million years, but this unspoilt coastline also offers unmissable natural features such as Chesil Beach. You’ll find a rich variety of food, pretty coastal towns, castles and scenic coastal paths. The Dorset Travel Guide highlights 19 must visit spots including Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch over the sea and if you fancy glamping, they got that covered too!
If you head east you’ll find the Norfolk Broads including the National Park which is home to an enormous variety of birdlife, especially at migration times. The best way to explore the Broads is by boat but also on offer are museums, stately homes, quaint villages and market towns, ancient churches and much, much more. Prepare to be inspired!
If ancient Roman sites are your thing then Hadrian’s Wall is a must and probably the most famous of all the UK sites. Emperor Hadrian had this 73-mile-long wall built in 122 AD to defend the Roman province of Britannia from the barbarians. Keen hikers can walk it in six or seven days but there is always the AD122 hop-on-hop-off bus!
Many of us love a garden to explore and Cumbria has something special in Levens Hall, home to the world’s oldest topiary garden. Established by Guillaume Beaumont, King James II’s gardener, the estate contains more than 100 examples of topiary — including what looks like giant chess pieces.
You could also opt for a moonlight walk in Snowdon - Mountain Walks offer a small group climb at dusk, enjoy the sunset (if weather allows) on the summit and then descend in the dark. Not for everyone but we are sure it’s spectacular for those who enjoy a spot of climbing.
Whatever you choose and this is just a small selection of what the UK has to offer, why not add on a night away. We always look for something a little different so love Quirky Accommodation. It's our go to if we want something a little different from shepherd’s huts to converted trucks, they have loads on offer to tempt you.
Of course, it goes without saying, if you are off exploring you need to be prepared and we suggest the following:
- Comfortable shoes
- The right outdoor clothing (we suggest our walking trousers, don’t worry we have you covered!)
- A good rucksack
- Your hat and sunblock
- Plenty of water and snacks,
- A first aid kit
- Map or GPS
Need a t-shirt? Head over to our Instagram page and get involved in this month’s competition to win a Wild at Heart tee for you and a friend - we’ve also thrown in some gorgeous lip balm from our friends Albus & Flora.
Don’t forget, the right attitude too and a dollop of curiosity and mindfulness, your camera and maybe even a journal because if you feel inspired why not stop and write a poem or note ideas that come to mind.