Top 5 UK Destinations for Adventure

When you think of going on an adventure, a lot of us might think of exotic destinations in the four corners or the world. Perhaps canoeing in the Amazon or hiking across Asia is what you think of when you hear the word ‘adventure’. However, the word ‘adventure’ is simply defined as “an exciting experience”, and you certainly don’t have to travel across the globe to have one of those.

Right here in the United Kingdom there are plenty of destinations you can explore and activities you can do that will give you a sense of adventure. We look at the top five places in the UK you can go to have an adventure:

Lake District

Not only is this one of the UK’s most loved National Parks, with its stunning landscapes and glacial waters cutting through the enchanting woodland, it’s also a fantastic place to have some great adventures. Hike up Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain or take a trip across its deepest lake, Wastwater. As well as the stunning scenery you can explore, there are plenty of activities you can do to keep you busy. Learn how to use an ice axe and crampons in a winter skills course or experience a new water sport like paddle-boarding or windsurfing across one of the 16 lakes found in the National Park. Windermere is, of course, the most well-known, and there are plenty of things to do whilst you’re there.

The Lake District has plenty to offer for those of you who love the outdoors, especially those of you looking for an adventure and to try something new. If this fantastic part of the UK is ticking your boxes, perhaps consider taking your next holiday there. Holidaycottages.co.uk offer a wide range of holiday cottages across the Lake District, whatever your needs are.

Devon

Forming a large part of Southwest England, Devon is a very popular destination for holidaymakers, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you choose the North or South coast, this county is brimming with things to do and places to explore. Let’s start by looking at the North.

If you’re really for adventure, how about swimming with seals? Known as the UK’s Galapagos (you’ll have to use your imagination a bit), Lundy Island is home to an abundance of wildlife. Just off the coast you will find sea grey seals. Renowned for getting up close and personal with snorkelers, swimming with these creatures is an experience not to be missed. If you would rather stay above the water, then head to the sandy beaches of Croyde and Woolacombe to try your hand at surfing or several other water sports.

The South coast has equally as many things to do to stoke your adventurous fire. Head over to Go Ape! in Haldon Forest to zipline through the trees or enjoy a fun day out for all the family at Woodlands Family Theme Park. Whether you choose North or South coast, you won’t be disappointed.

Hertfordshire

Perhaps a surprise entry onto the list, Hertfordshire is one of our picks for just three words; white water rafting. It doesn’t get more adventurous than facing the tidal rapids in an inflatable raft with nothing more than a paddle and sheer bravery. While for some the thought of this sends shivers down the spine, for others it is an adrenaline rush like no other. If it is for you, why not compare yourself to the very best?

Lee Valley White Water Centre is home to the rapids built for the canoe slalom at the London 2012 Olympic Games, meaning you can see if you’ve got what it takes to tackle the course like a pro. Being just 17 miles from central London, the centre is within very easy reach from the capital.

Scotland

A majestic part of the UK, Scotland is a land of pure unrivaled beauty. It is a land of mountain wildernesses, stunning lochs and glacial valleys intertwined with mystical woodland. For all of Scotland’s beauty, there is a bountiful selection of things to do during your Scottish adventure. Take a scuba diving trip in the Orkneys and explore the sunken shipwrecks that lurk beneath or explore the Outer Hebrides on an island cycle tour. The 185-miles Hebridean Way takes in 10 islands and spectacular views.

While perhaps not so much an adventure, St Andrews is certainly worth a visit for golf enthusiasts. Scotland has so much to explore that you can make your own adventure. Hundreds of walkways and cycling routes mean you can explore this wonderful region in your own pace.

Wales

Like Scotland, Wales is another beautiful part of the UK and s perfectly suited for those who like to adventure as well as those who like to relax. The Brecon Beacons are a great place to start your adventure. Hike some of the many walking routes and explore the beauty of this area, or perhaps explore it on two wheels with a downhill mountain biking experience.

However, if you really want to experience an adventure, there is only one place you can do it. Zip World is a place to go to fulfill your adventurous spirit. Fly 500ft high across the countryside on Europe’s longest zip line, giving you panoramic views of a skate quarry. If you suffer from acrophobia, then head underground into the underground trampoline experience and bounce around inside caves and caverns. For the speed freaks, there is the Forest Coaster, a seated roller coaster than accelerates the forest. There really is nowhere else like Zip World in the UK.

So, as you can see, you really don’t need to travel far and wide to find adventure. Sometimes it is right on your doorstep.

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