The UK's National Park Secrets

Where to go and where to stay in Britain's wilderness treasures

With meadows, mountains and miles and miles of natural beauty, the UK has it all in its 15 national parks, and they all recommend the use of public transport to conserve the beautiful landscapes and protect the endangered wildlife. Next time you head towards the parks, however, why not use our insider knowledge to get to their best, most remote and secret corners? WideWorld gets out into the fresh air to find out where to head, sleep and explore as summer creeps into autumn.

Brecon Beacons National Park

When to go

With many festivals and events taking place during the summer months, heading there from mid September will be less crowded

Where to head

The Brecon Beacons National Park is located in the southern districts of Wales, an area renowned for calm and serene surroundings. Within the park, cycling the Taff Trail is one of the many suggested scenic routes. There is also a wildlife walk through the woodland of Coed Tregib, near Llandeilo.

Where to sleep

Beili Helyg Brecon Beacons Guest House (01685 813609) is a luxurious four star B&B in a secluded area of the Brecons.  For camping, Priory Mill Farm (01874 611609) has some very competitive rates in a fantastic location.

The Broads National Park

When to go

The Broads attracts over 2 million visitors every year, but things quieten down in September and October, just in time to see the leaves start to fall. For bird watchers, winter is the best season to pay them a visit.

Where to head

With its unique wildlife and 2000km of lock-free tidal rivers, you need to get on the water to truly appreciate the remoteness of the Broads. Aside from exploring on a sailing boat, you can also get around on canoe, bike or foot. On land, Hickling Broad is one of the most remote valleys. For a fantastic day out on the water, hire a sailing boat from Hunters Yard.

Where to sleep

Broadland B&B (01692 678420) is just a short stroll from the riverbanks and sand dunes. Overlooking the River Bure, Hotel Wroxham (01603 782061) is based in one of the main tourist areas.

Cairngorms National Park

When to go

With the wildlife being a particular highlight, spring or summer would be the best time to go along.

Where to head

With its natural cultural heritage, this home to 25% of the UK’s threatened wildlife and plant species is the largest of Britain’s national parks. So there are plenty of opportunities to lose yourself in the 3800 square km of unspoilt countryside. The Spey, Dee and Don valleys are all easily accessible and definitely worth a look.

Where to sleep

Muchrach Lodge (0845 012 1589) is a small Victorian hotel, offering special offers up until December.

Dartmoor National Park

When to go

Stretching 954 square km, the deep wooded gorges, calm reservoirs and rocky rivers make for a serene setting, particularly towards October and the winter months.

Where to head

The moor can be divided into three areas, with the south of Princetown being the most gentle and tranquil location. For a more rugged environment however, hike up to the Northern moor. Becky Falls and Lydford Gorge are two of the main tourist attractions.

Where to sleep

The Warren House Inn (01822 880208) is located smack bang in the middle of the park and nearby to all popular sites. Slightly further north, the Sandy Park Inn (01647 433267) is a thatched Devonshire cottage with a relaxed country atmosphere.

Exmoor National Park

When to go

To experience the rural landscapes of Exmoor National Park without the crowds, January and February are the best months. Though beautiful in all seasons, thick mist can often descend on the park, so make sure you check out the forecast before you head out.

Where to head

Whether you’re exploring on foot, horseback or mountain bike, the most popular places are Dunster, Lynmouth, Tarr Steps, Selworthy and Porlock. So avoid these areas if you’re looking for a bit of me time. For an instant dose of solitude, visit Challacombe Common, Cheriton Ridge and in particular, the Exmoor section of the South West Coast Path.

Where to sleep

Burrowhayes C&C (01643 862463) is idyllic for campers and those fond of a holiday park atmosphere. Knowle Manor (01643 841 342), also located within the park, is a family run manor house with an informal and refreshing feel.

Lake District National Park

When to go

Attracting over 8 million visitors a year, it’s hard to believe that there are quiet times, but there are, particularly during the winter season. 

Where to head

With Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, and Wastwater, its deepest lake, this national park is crammed full of fascinating sights.

Where to sleep

Swinside Farmhouse (01768 778363) near the Newlands Valley, just three miles from Keswick, adds a modern twist to the Lakes. For something more traditional however, try the Queens Head Hotel (01539 432174) in Troutbeck.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

When to go

Being just 40 minutes from Glasgow and 90 minutes from Edinburgh, it’s busy all year round, with things settling down at the end of September.

Where to head

Within the 720 square miles, the most remote parts are within the Cowal area or the Trossachs. Golf, canoeing and boating are just some of the activities to do against the incredible mountain backdrop.
Where to sleep

Airlie House B&B (01877 384247) is in a beautiful spot, with the rural Gart Caravan Park (01877 330002) located within the park itself.

New Forest National Park

When to go

Late September sees the heathland covered in scented purple heather, while visiting in October and November makes for a relaxing autumn break. Head to the park towards the end of the year if you’re a fan of frosty winter mornings.

Where to head

The ancient woodland have made this a popular choice for many, with over 13 million visitors flocking here to appreciate the stunning wildlife and picturesque villages every year. The most peaceful areas however, are within the enclosures.

Where to sleep

In the area, the Forest Park Hotel (01590 622 844) has a fantastic reputation and on-site facilities. The New Forest Lodge Hotel (01794 390 999) is one mile out, but a great budget option.

Northumberland National Park

When to go

The wind down at the end of the summer will ease the most hyper of spirits, with enough space to appreciate the beauty of the park all year round.

Where to head

With centuries of war behind it, this national park, located on the Scottish border, is steeped in history. The northern end of the Cheviot Hills, though strenuous to hike, is the most remote part. In the southern part of the park however, heading slightly north of Hadrian’s Wall has some breathtaking views.

Where to sleep

Two B&B’s in the north of the park come highly recommended. One is Gibbs Hill (01434 344030). The other is Saughy Rigg (01434 344120). Wooler and Haltwhistle are two towns nearby enough to the main areas.

North York Moors National Park

When to go

With sea cliffs and sandy beaches to rival some of the UK’s favourite seaside destinations, September would be an ideal time to pay a visit.

Where to head

The strong presence of tradition and culture is evident here, as honey sandstone villages scatter the vast open moorlands and grassy dales. Robin Hoods Bay, just outside Whitby, is a lovely coastline walk. Sandsend, a seaside village within the park, is a fantastic location for a sunset stroll.

Where to sleep

For an authentic country experience, Barker Stakes Farmhouse (01751 47675) is a beautiful 18th century property in the area of Pickering.

Peak District National Park

When to go

Speculated to cater for every taste, the Peak District National Park is the most accessible. Within around four hours of most of the UK, this was Britain’s first national park. Though busy in all seasons, the end of the year sees the park at its quietest.

Where to head

The most popular places are Bakewell, Castleton, Chatsworth and the Derwent Dams, so those after a bit of time out should avoid these areas. 58 miles of off-road cycle trails and placid reservoirs allow for a tranquil getaway.

Where to sleep

The Old Farmhouse in Darley Moor (01629 733838) is a fantastic self-catering option, but for maximum luxury, the four star East Lodge Country House Hotel (01629 734474) offers an incredible high standard of service.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

When to go

Heading to the park in early autumn will ensure a warm and peaceful break.

Where to head

With the north offering a more rugged setting, the west has stunning views of the islands. Nearby, St David’s, Britain’s smallest city, is brimming with Welsh charm and character.

Where to sleep

Both the Poppit Sands Youth Hostel (01239 612936) and Argo Villa B&B (01239 613031) are within two miles of the coastal path and suit any budget.

Snowdonia National Park

When to go

Like many of the other parks, autumn is a good time to visit. Despite it being quieter, most places are still open until winter approaches.

Where to head

Within the 823 square miles of unspoilt North Wales countryside, there are an incredible nine mountains to venture up, giving visitors plenty opportunity for solitude and exploration.

Where to sleep

The Royal Oak Hotel (01690 710 219) overlooks the River Llugwy and is ideally located in the village of Betws-y-Coed. If camping is more your style, try the Tan-y-Fron Guest House (01341 422 638), just half a mile from Dolgellau.

South Downs National Park

When to go

September and October are some of the quietest months, so if country pubs and tumbling countryside appeals to you, this is the place.

Where to head

In stark contrast to the serene atmospheres of surrounding national parks, South Downs is a thrill-seekers paradise. Para-gliding and hand-gliding are some of the activities, with golf, horse riding and fishing to suit the more faint hearted. For a challenging but rewarding hike, Blackdown is one of the highest points in the park. Kingley Vale, just north of Chichester, has an ancient forest with some bizarre looking trees. An unmissable attraction!

Where to sleep

Gumber Campsite (01243 814730) is under a mile from the park, but there’s no need to head too far out if something a little less rustic is preferred. The Jack & Jill Inn (01273 843595) is only half a mile away.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

When to go

From late September, the park is less crowded, but it’s a beautiful place to be with or without the sunshine.

Where to head

In the north of England, covering 1762 square km, the Yorkshire Dales National Park has been a favourite among renowned poets and artists for decades. Unveiling some of the UK’s most beautiful walking trails, exploring on mountain bikes is said to be a fantastic way of getting around. Kettlewell Village is one of the best places to visit, with plenty hill walking to observe the surrounding areas.

Where to sleep

The Wensleydale Heifer (01969 622322) is an upmarket hotel with very favorable reviews. Also located in the park, Talbot House (01423 711597) is for the more budget conscious.