1. South West Coast Path, England

Spanning 630 miles from Somerset to Dorset, the South West Coast Path is the UK’s longest waymarked footpath. Whether walking a short section or tackling a multi-day trek, adventurers are rewarded with awe-inspiring sea cliffs, hidden coves, and historic lighthouses.

Why It’s Special:

• Offers panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Features ancient fishing villages like Clovelly and Boscastle

• Ideal for coastal photography and spotting seals or dolphins offshore

Best Time to Visit: April to October for drier weather and longer days

2. Brecon Beacons Caving, Wales

The Brecon Beacons aren’t just for hikers - beneath the rolling hills lies a world of limestone caves and underground rivers. Guided caving expeditions here offer a mix of adventure and geology, with routes suitable for beginners and experts.

Why It’s Special:

• Explore Dan-yr-Ogof, one of Europe’s most spectacular cave systems

• Navigate waterfalls, tunnels, and fascinating rock formations

• Great for thrill-seekers wanting something beyond hiking

Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though summer offers the most comfortable temperatures

3. The Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland’s Mourne Mountains combine rugged peaks with serene forest trails, creating a hiker’s paradise. The range’s highest point, Slieve Donard, offers challenging hikes and stunning views of the Irish Sea.

Why It’s Special:

• Diverse landscapes including granite tors, lakes, and coastal views

• The Mourne Wall, a 22-mile stone wall crossing 15 peaks

• Peaceful and less crowded than mainland UK hiking destinations

Best Time to Visit: May to September for clear skies and warmer weather

4. Coasteering in Pembrokeshire, Wales

For adrenaline lovers, coasteering in Pembrokeshire is the ultimate wild coastal adventure. This activity blends swimming, cliff jumping, and scrambling along sea cliffs - all while surrounded by the raw beauty of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Why It’s Special:

• Navigate sea caves, rocky inlets, and tidal currents with expert guides

• See seabirds and marine life up close

• Pembrokeshire was the birthplace of coasteering and remains one of the best places to try it

Best Time to Visit: June to September, when sea temperatures are warmer

5. Glen Coe Valley, Scotland

Glen Coe is a glacial valley famed for its dramatic beauty and tragic history. Towering peaks and steep-sided cliffs make it one of the most photogenic places in the UK, and it's ideal for both leisurely walks and challenging ridge scrambles.

Why It’s Special:

• Walk the Lost Valley or tackle the Aonach Eagach ridge

• Breathtaking landscapes featured in films like Skyfall and Harry Potter

• Rich in Scottish heritage and folklore

Best Time to Visit: May to October for pleasant hiking weather

6. Giant’s Causeway Coastal Walk, Northern Ireland

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its surreal basalt columns, but the surrounding coastal trail is equally spectacular. The Giant’s Causeway walk connects cliffs, beaches, and folklore-rich landscapes.

Why It’s Special:

• See the Giant’s Boot and the Wishing Chair

• Learn about the volcanic origins and the mythical stories tied to the formation

• Excellent birdwatching and photography opportunities

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for milder weather and fewer tourists

7. The Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

The UK’s largest national park is a vast, untamed playground for year-round adventure. From snow sports in winter to mountain biking and wildlife spotting in summer, the Cairngorms offer something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Why It’s Special:

• Spot rare species like red squirrels, ospreys, and reindeer

• Hike to Loch Morlich or summit Cairn Gorm

• Enjoy stargazing in one of the UK’s designated Dark Sky Parks

Best Time to Visit:

• Summer (June to August) for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching

• Winter (December to March) for skiing and snowboarding