An extended layover in one of London’s major airports does not constitute a visit to the British Isles. Countless destinations outside the nation’s capital city offer remarkable adventures for visitors of all ages.
Culture, arts, sports and natural beauty are available for anyone who dares to schedule a train ride to one of these unforgettable locales. From north to south, Britain has extreme climate differences that leave some areas unreachable during the winter months. Picture The UK says that seasons offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy each destination at its peak. Beauty is the keyword, so make sure to bring your camera.
1. Scotland – Cairngorms National Park
Every year, according to Picture The UK, nearly 1.5 million people visit Cairngorms National Park, which is the largest national park in Scotland. Within the boundaries, the Cairngorms mountain range create panoramic views. Wildlife roams freely across farmed and managed landscapes where tourists are encouraged to visit. Historic buildings tell the rich history of Scotland’s past.
Located in the Moray, Angus, Highland, Aberdeenshire, Perth and Kinross regions, this park spans and area of 1,748 square miles. Surrounding towns offer excellent places to stay while making day trips into the park. Aviemore, Ballater, Grantown-on-Spey, Braemar, Newtonmore, Kingussie and Tomintoul offer many accommodations for visitors of all ages.
Cairngorms National Park is home to some of the highest mountain peaks in the United Kingdom. The largest area of arctic wilderness and mountain landscape lies within the boundaries of Cairngorms. Ben Macdhui, Cairn Toul, Braeriach, SgoranLochainUaine, and Cairn Gorm, which is the mountain after which the park was named, all stand proudly awaiting the arrival visitors.
The Cairngorm Mountain Range is part of the Grampian Mountains, which run between the Great Glen Fault and the Highland Boundary Fault. All of this forested area provides the perfect habitat for wild reindeer, golden eagles, wolves, bison, arctic fox and polar bears. Visitors will see many different species of wildlife throughout various seasons.
Historians love to visit Balmoral Castle, Ruthven Barracks and Corgaff Castle. Each structure has a rich Scottish history based on the many conquerors who came and went in the face of stark resistance from the Scottish people according to Picture the UK.
Whisky has always been part of Scottish existence. The River Spey flows from Loch Spey through Speyside, which is famous for whisky distilleries and salmon fishing. Every visitor should make time to visit the Glenlivet Distillery. No trip to Scotland is complete without experiencing sip of Scottish whisky.
