Perfect places to go camping in the UK: A guide to the best National Parks

As the warmer weather and lighter evenings begin to roll in, it’s clear that summer is just around the corner in the UK. Many of us have been browsing the internet in search of our perfect summer getaway, but according to recent studies, three in five Brits opt to take at least one annual holiday in their own country. So, why are staycations so popular in the UK?

With an abundance of beautiful National Parks (15 in total), the UK isn’t short on natural beauty. Whether you enjoy going for relaxed walks in the countryside, adventure packed hiking trips, or a day at the beach, there really is something for everyone here. With so many beautiful destinations to choose from, you could end up feeling more than a little spoiled for choice. Luckily, Mototparks Citoren Oldham have created a helpful guide to the UK’s most idyllic National Parks.  

1. The Lake District

The Lake District is officially the UK’s most popular National Park and World Heritage site – and for good reason. Home to the England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, the Lake District boasts tremendous views of some the most popular locations, such as Keswick, Derwentwater and Windermere. It’s no surprise it is the most visited National Park in the UK, with over 15.8 million annual visitors.

The Lake District is top of many peoples ‘must-visit’ lists. With around 16 main lakes, you can take to the water on your canoes and kayaks, or go scrambling down some of their waterfalls. If the water isn’t for you, then give one of their walks a go – there are a selection of routes suitable for all ages and skill levels.

1. Dartmoor

Dartmoor National Park is the only park of its kind in the whole of the UK that allows ‘wild camping’. With an array of walking and cycling routes available, there are plenty of opportunities for you to make the most of everything the National Park has to offer whilst taking in breath-taking views of vast moorland and discovering the area’s rich military history. With an almost endless choice of great spaces to camp, you can pitch your camping tent in a space that’s perfect for your needs.

1. Cairngorms

Cairngorms is the largest National Park in the UK and is home to five of the highest mountains in Scotland. With 55 peaks standing over 900 metres, hikers will be in their element with the dramatic mountain landscapes – there’s plenty of walking routes available to choose from that showcase some of Scotland’s beautiful scenery.

With large areas of dense forest, the park is also home to a variety of interesting plants and wildlife. When visiting Cairngorms, you can expect to come across a quarter of the UK’s rare and endangered species, including the wildcat, the capercaillie and the mountain hare.

1. Northumberland

Northumberland National park is a top choice for those of you who are looking to get away from it all in a peaceful countryside location. Located between the Scottish border and the industrial North East of England, it’s home to the remains of the famous Hadrian’s Wall which date back to Roman times. You can take a stroll along the Hadrian’s Wall path and walk amongst the wild goats which still roam the landscape.

Stargazers can take in the beauty of the night sky here, as Northumberland is home to the largest area of natural ‘dark sky’ in all of the UK. Its Dark Sky Park is protected from forms of artificial light to provide the truest stargazing experience – promoting astronomy in the region.

 

1. Snowdonia

Snowdonia National Park is home to the tallest mountain in Wales, as well as more than 23 miles of stunning coastline. You’ll never be stuck for things to do, with sand dune backed beaches and rocky coves close-by to the impressive coastline, as well as steep river gorges and waterfalls. As a living working area, Snowdonia is steeped with culture and local history. The National Park houses picturesque villages with 26,000 local people – and over half of the population speak the Welsh language.