The United Kingdom is home to a hoard of natural beauty and history, but sometimes we are all a bit too busy looking abroad to realise it. Here I’ve listed some hidden gems where I love to holiday.
Holiday Inspirations Close to Home: Dorset, Scotland and Brecon
Holiday Parks in Dorset
If you’ve just about had it with gloom and rain, head for a refreshing break in Dorset. Amongst the seaside regions, Dorset has some of the lowest levels of rainfall, and -most importantly- the highest number of sunny days, making it an unmissable destination for beach lovers. You can also marvel at the breathtaking geological formations such as Lulworth Cove, Chesil Beach and Durdle Door that were formed over thousands of years along the coast.
As well as plenty to see, there is also a great deal to learn about English history in Dorset. Go fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast, explore the ruins of Corfe Castle, or gape at the intricate roof of Sherborne Abbey. And for those wanting a bit more action, you can clamber amongst the caves, go snorkelling, or tackle some of the 3,000 miles of hiking trails the region has to offer.
There is a vast and diverse range of holiday parks in Dorset, so in terms of accommodation, it’s really just down to what you’re looking for. There are seaside cottages for romantic weekends, or larger stylish apartments suitable for sharing with family or friends. Some even come with a pool! Those looking for something a bit more unusual can rent a rustic caravan.
Lakeside Cabins in Scotland
Scotland is often considered one of the most beautiful country in the world, and for good reason. You can experience the serene landscapes of the country’s many lochs by staying in a lakeside cabin. In Loch Lomond for example, the lake is reserved for private use of the resort giving you unparalleled tranquillity, not to mention first dibs on the best trout and salmon fishing. Take a jet ski out in the day, and witness the truly spectacular reflections on the water at sundown.
A bit further north, Crianlarich is home to Loch Lubhair, which is famous for its great fishing waters. Here you can settle in one of the cabins situated on the side of the valley that give impressive views to the lochs below. There are a variety of cruises that run across the lake, such as nature-spotting tours. It is also possible to take out one of the complimentary Canadian canoes and spend a lazy afternoon with a tackle.
Rural Escapes in Mid Wales
Mid Wales is home to a number of spectacular sights. Between the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia, which are linked by the Cambrian mountain range, there is plenty to see and plenty more to do. Rent a cottage in the luscious green valley and enjoy a multitude of hikes, interspersed with well-earned pub lunches (of course). The small town of Rhayader is famed for its public houses, and there is a nearby parkland of 22 acres where you can feed red kites.
The Brecon Beacons are renowned nationally as a top beauty spot. Aside from the unmissable hiking, there’s pretty much every kind of outdoor activity to be found here. From horse riding and stargazing to adrenaline-filled water sports, abseiling and mountain biking – there’s something here for everyone and all kinds of adventurers!
So whether you head to the beach in a holiday park in Dorset, seclude yourself in a lake side cabin in Scotland or plan an action packed holiday in mid Wales, I hope I’ve given you some stellar ideas. Who needs to jump on a plane and travel for miles when so many heart stopping beauties lie on your very doorstep here in Great Britain?
Martin Wynn
