In a poll by Rough Guides, Wales, England and Scotland were all ranked in the top ten most beautiful countries in the world, with Scotland claiming the top spot.
Scattered with a diverse range of beauty spots, the British Isles hosts a treasure trove of spectacular views just waiting to tantalise the eyes. Adventurers, photographers and walking enthusiasts, discover ten of Britain’s most amazing views — and how to experience them for yourself.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
A beautiful piece of architecture, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is a 100 year-old monument found in the wild Scottish Highlands. It is perhaps most famous for appearing in the Harry Potter film series.
Experiencing this Scottish wonder for yourself is simple. Located a few miles west of Ben Nevis, a number of roads converge around it. Simply drive to a nearby car park — or walk across the mountains if you are feeling adventurous — and pick your vantage point.
Scottish Munros
Speaking of Scottish mountains, views in the UK don’t come much more dramatic or impressive than from atop a mighty Munro — a mountain 3000ft or higher.
Over 200 of these beasts are found across the Scottish Highlands, with varying degrees of access. Pick your favourite and wander to the top, taking in the splendour on the way.
Green Bridge of Wales
On the Pembrokeshire coast, just south of the town of Pembroke, you’ll find one of the UK’s most impressive geological formations. The Green Bridge of Wales is an aptly titled arch sprouting from the cliffs of the country’s southern coastline.
As luck would have it, the perfect vantage point exists for visitors to sit and marvel at this Welsh wonder — as seen in the photo above.
Durdle Door
From one fabled archway to another. The Durdle Door is a natural limestone archway that sits as a gateway to the Jurassic Coast. A beautiful wonder of nature in its own right, it doesn’t hurt to be surrounded by one the UK’s most stunning beaches, too.
Edale Valley
The Peak District is renowned for its incredible countryside views, but none compare to the staggering Edale Valley. Found in the northern section of the massive national park, the rolling hillsides dotted with trees and cottages makes for a breathtaking experience.
Lake Buttermere
The lakes of the Lake District are legendary. Famous for their beauty — arguably the most beautiful spots in England — these dazzling blue gems are set between magnificent mountains and hillsides. It’s a vibrant scene to behold and one not soon forgotten.
While all lakes have their charm, Lake Buttermere is one you simply can’t visit the District without seeing.
Bamburgh Castle
Beyond the turgid waters of the North Sea, perched on the wind-battered coasts of Northumberland, sits the mighty castle of Bamburgh. An incredible sight in its own right, when combined with the coastal location, this unmissable British scene truly comes to life.
Pistyll Rhaeadr
Nothing says natural beauty like the glittering mists of a plummeting waterfall. The UK isn’t synonymous with stunning waterfalls, but we do have a couple of hidden gems. Pistyll Rhaeadr is one such gem.
Found just outside the eastern borders of Snowdonia National Park, the gorgeous Pistyll Rhaeadr offers passers by a true British treat. 72 metres high and surrounded by lush, vibrant flora, there is nowhere in the British Isles quite like it.
Stacks of Duncansby
The Stacks of Duncansby are pretty spectacular. Found near John o’ Groats, the most northerly tip of Scotland, these rough and ragged rock formations protrude, almost unnaturally, from the rough seas below.
The Old Man of Stor
We finish where we started: in the Scottish Highlands.
Located on the Isle of Skye, just off the eastern coastline, sit some jagged rock spires. A strange result of mother earth’s eternal battle to destroy what she has created, these marvellous pieces of partially eroded rock strike an unusual, yet undeniably beautiful pose against a jaw-dropping background.
Jane Livingstone, of Mountain Walking Holidays, is an adventurer, traveller and qualified international walking guide. She has travelled the length and breadth of the UK, immersing herself in all the best views on offer.
