The Great British landscape is more often associated with grey skies and flooding than it is with areas of outstanding natural beauty. But here, right on our doorstep, are some of the most photogenic vistas in the world. Between the rolling pastoral hills of the West Country, and the dramatic trenchant mountains of the North, our landscape has been gradually developed by the processes of time. So dust off your camera and get outside to witness some of the most photogenic destinations the UK has to offer.
Snowdonia, North Wales
The landscape of Snowdonia was carved from ice during the last glacial period, leaving behind it monstrous chasms, towering snow-capped mountains, and smooth glacial lakes.
North York Moors, Yorkshire
The bleak and rugged landscape of the North York Moors is a rare thing of beauty. Nowhere but here will you find such a great expanse of untouched, feral beauty swathed in heather and gorse.
Jurassic Coast, Dorset
Famous for its crumbling white cliffs and rich geological history, the Jurassic Coast is littered with unusual landforms, including the photogenic Durdle Door, Old Harry’s Rocks, and Lulworth Cove.
Lake District, Cumbria
Another token of the glacial period, the Lake District is renowned for its awe-inspiring landscape of cavernous u-shaped valleys and colossal freshwater lakes. It’s not hard to see why this was a popular hangout of the Romantics.
Giant’s Causeway, Northern Island
Giant’s Causeway is the stuff of fairytales, literally. Tens of thousands of basalt columns, resulting from an ancient volcanic eruption, are the causeway of a legendary giant, who crossed the channel to meet his Scottish nemesis.
Outer Hebrides, Scotland
You’d be forgiven for mistaking the white sandy beaches and glittering turquoise waters of the Outer Hebrides for somewhere more tropical than Scotland. Yet the arctic temperature means it has been left unspoilt, and you’ll be able to enjoy this paradise in peace.
Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall
An island promontory connected to the South Cornwall coast, the Lizard Peninsula has it all. Between the golden sands and shingle coves, the open heathland and the jagged cliffs, there’s plenty here to keep your camera busy.
Dartmoor, Devon
Nestled within the contours of Dartmoor’s windswept landscape are the famous Dartmoor ponies, which roam wild and free. These creatures are shy, but keep your eyes on the horizon as you traverse the rugged moorland.
Scottish Highlands, Scotland
Quite possibly the most photogenic destination in the UK, the Scottish Highlands is an amalgamation of the grand glaciated landscapes of Snowdonia and the Lake District, and the proud desolation of the North York Moors.
Peak District, North
Less popularised than the Lake District, yet every bit its equal, the Peak District offers pretty country valleys against a backdrop of formidable mountains. A highlight is the desolate moorland plateau of Kinder Scout, where the grit stone boulders inspired sculptor and artist Henry Moore.
Norfolk Broads, Norfolk
If it’s marshland rather than mountains you’re after, head to the Norfolk Broads for some of the most beautiful waterways in the country. The Broads are best navigated by boat, but there are also opportunities for walking and cycling along the rivers.
Mendip Hills, Somerset
Who knew Somerset contained such dramatic vistas? Climb to the summit of the Mendip Hills, and peer out over Cheddar Gorge for a breathtaking view onto the country lanes below.
Feature image © uppy61/iStock/Thinkstock
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas.
