Did you know there are 15 national parks in the UK and 10 national parks in England?
There are so many stunning national parks in the UK, all of which are worth exploring. In fact, we would recommend using our downloadable bucket list for you to use.
In this blog post, we run through all 15 national parks in the UK (including the 10 national parks in England) and give you an overview of what you can expect from each one.
So, let’s go! Here is our guide to the 15 national parks in UK….
Image from Pixabay
How many National Parks in the UK are there?
*UK national parks list in no particular order
England has 10 national parks, Wales has three national parks and Scotland has two national parks.
Our list of national parks in the UK.
- Exmoor
- Dartmoor
- The Broads
- South Downs
- New Forest
- Peak District
- Lake District
- North York Moors
- Yorkshire Dales
- Northumberland
- Pembrokeshire
- Brecon Beacons
- Snowdonia
- Loch Lomond and the Trossachs
- Cairngorms
But of these national parks in the UK is the best to visit?
Map of national parks UK
Credit: OS Get Outside
Here are the best national parks in the UK.
Exmoor
The first on our list of national parks in UK is Exmoor national park, one of the UK’s smallest national parks. It has a beautiful coastline and open moorland, and the coastline sits 314 metres above sea level, meaning it offers spectacular views of the cliffs and beaches, just waiting to be explored.
Dartmoor
For many centuries Dartmoor national park has been an inspiration for several famous authors and once you see it for yourself you will understand why. This beautiful national park is steeped in history with vast open moorland and miles of hiking trail.
The Broads
Next up on our list of national parks in UK is the lesser-known Broads national park. This area forms the UK’s largest protected wetland with hundreds of miles to explore, riverside paths and beautiful wildlife.
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Image from Pixabay
South Downs
As well-known for being the UK’s newest national park, the South Downs offers grassland, woodland and chalk cliffs. It is also the most populated national park making it one of the more accessible places to explore in the UK.
New Forest
Next up on our list of national parks in UK is The New Forest national park is perfect for nature lovers, with an abundance of wildlife in the unique ecosystem; from the ancient woodland to heathland and coastline there is something for everyone to explore.
Peak District
Famous for being the ‘original national park’ the Peak District is amazing national park and well worth a visit!! This OG national park is a great choice for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy the countryside, with so many accessible trails.
Image from Pixabay
North York Moors
The North York moors boast over 1,500 ancient boundary stones and crosses as well as 800 schedules monuments around historical villages and enchanting forest ready to be explored. This is an under-rated and often forgotten national park in England which is well worth a visit!
Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales offers a great escape into the English countryside, with meadows, lots of sheep and even more amazing hikes and walks for all abilities. It is also home to the famous Yorkshire three peaks which we will be doing in August as a group for OAG!!! Come and join us HERE.
Lake District
Next up on our list of national parks in UK is one of the most iconic…. Lake District and our founder Sophie’s personal favourite. It boasts amazing hikes, including one of the most famous Scafell, as well as stunning scenery, wildlife, and culture.
Image from Pixabay
Northumberland
Northumberland national park is the UK’s least populated national park making it the perfect escape for those looking to get away from the crowds. It is also one of the best places in the UK to go star-gazing! Our founder went to Durham in 2022 to go star-gazing and loved it, check it out HERE.
Pembrokeshire
Known for being the UK’s only park focused on coastline, Pembrokeshire coast national park is a beauty. It’s location on the coast makes it perfect for anyone who loves to be by the ocean.
Brecon Beacons
OAG is heading here in 2023 and we cannot wait to explore this amazing national park. The Brecon Beacons is one of the most accessible national parks in UK situated only 3 hours from London and 1 hour from Cardiff. It is an area of outstanding natural beauty with waterfalls, woodlands, and heathlands.
Image from Pixabay
Snowdonia
Our favourite and next up on our list of national parks in UK is Snowdonia national park. It is also where we held our third UK weekend trip back in April 2022. Located in Wales it is the highest national park and home to the highest mountain in England and Wales. This national park is perfect for those seeking adventure.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs national park is where the lowlands meet the highlands. The south offers varied scenery with different moor and lochs whilst the North marks the start of the mountains.
Cairngorms
The Cairngorms is the UK’s biggest national park encompassing so many adventures to be had, including the highest range of mountains in the UK and the highest mountain in the UK, Ben Nevis. Located in the Scottish Highlands and established in 2003, this national park is a beast and best explored over the space of a week!
