It may be small, but the UK is packed with plenty of marvels courtesy of Mother Nature. From soaring peaks and sprawling caverns to towering sea stacks and shimmering lochs, these are the most breathtaking natural wonders in the UK, ranked by our team of travel lovers. While any such ranking is, of course, subjective, we think you'll agree that these beauty spots are the best in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Click through this gallery to see the UK's 50 greatest natural wonders, ranked from amazing to downright jaw-dropping...
Situated right in the middle of London, Hyde Park feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Dating back hundreds of years, the parkland was seized by King Henry VIII from monks in the 16th century to create his own private hunting ground, which it remained until Charles I opened it to the public in 1637. Today, with its acres upon acres of vast greenery, historic monuments and ornamental flower gardens, it is the largest park in central London.
Lying near the fringes of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Aysgarth Falls is one of Yorkshire’s most famous attractions. Stretching for about a mile, the falls consist of three glorious cascades that were carved out by the River Ure. Bordered by tranquil forest and pretty farmland, the falls are best known for being featured in the Kevin Costner film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
Soaring high over Edinburgh’s urban sprawl, Arthur’s Seat is an iconic feature of the city skyline. Sat on the edge of Holyrood Park, the grassy hill forms part of the remains of an extinct volcano that erupted roughly 350 million years ago. Measuring a mighty 823 feet (251m) above sea level, its rocky peak is the highest point of the park and provides spectacular views across the Scottish capital.
Found on the western edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, with a drop of roughly 90 feet (27m), Henrhyd Falls is the highest waterfall in South Wales. Plunging into a scenic wooded gorge, the falls are surrounded by picturesque woodland that is known for its abundance of wildlife. With its sheltered location, Henrhyd Falls doubled as the famous Batcave in Christopher Nolan’s film The Dark Knight Rises.
Often regarded as one of the most enchanting places in Northern Ireland, this mythical tunnel of beech trees looks like a doorway into another world. Planted by the Stuart family in the 18th century as an impressive entrance for their Georgian mansion, today the trees are one of the country’s most photographed natural wonders. Avid fans of the HBO series Game of Thrones may recognise the Dark Hedges as the location for the Kingsroad.
In a scenic corner of the Highlands, the legendary Loch Ness is one of Scotland’s most mysterious places. Holding more water than all the lakes of England and Wales combined, Loch Ness is the most voluminous lake in the UK. The elusive Loch Ness Monster, or Nessie, is thought to be lurking within its deep waters. The loch draws visitors from all over the world hoping to catch a glimpse of the mythical creature.
Framing Northern Ireland’s southeast, the Mourne Mountains are undoubtedly one of the country’s most picturesque places. Located in County Down, the granite range includes the Slieve Donard summit, which, at 2,789 feet (850m) high, is the tallest mountain in Northern Ireland. With its craggy peaks, shimmering lakes and incredible views, the Mourne landscape is thought to have inspired CS Lewis, author of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, when creating his magical land of Narnia.
Characterised by its limestone ravines, ancient woodland and pretty slopes dotted with wildflowers, Dovedale could be a landscape straight from a Romantic painting. Nestled near the southwest fringes of the Peak District, the valley sits between the hamlet of Milldale and Thorpe Cloud hill in Derbyshire. Flanked by steep cliffs, the River Dove slices through the valley, while its famous Stepping Stones provide a picturesque route across the water.
Rising from the sea at the Isle of Wight’s most western point, this trio of white chalk stacks is the island’s best-known attraction. Set against a gorgeous coastal backdrop within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the striking rock formation is a truly magnificent sight.
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Deep below the Brecon Beacons National Park, this Welsh wonder is one of Britain’s most complex cave systems. Home to rock formations dating back millions of years, the caves were first discovered in 1921 by local brothers, Tommy, Edwin and Jeff Morgan. Alongside the unusual rocks, the River Llynfi winds through the caves forming the jaw-dropping 40-foot-high (12m) underground waterfalls in the cavern known as ‘The Dome of St Paul's’.
This pretty tree-lined ravine can be found on the outskirts of the Welsh village of Betws-y-Coed. Known as Ffos Noddun in Welsh which means 'deep ditch', the rocky gorge was carved out by the River Conwy creating its tumbling rapids and cascades. Hidden near a winding creek surrounded by peaceful woodland, the mythical natural wonder is thought to be the home of magical spirits.
Shrouded by the ancient pine trees of Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park, An Lochan Uaine is a mythical loch of Aviemore. Named the ‘Green Loch’ for its gorgeous turquoise waters, its bold green hue is said to be caused by the fairies of Glenmore washing their clothes in the loch’s waters. Sitting at the foot of Angel’s Peak and fringed by forest, it’s no surprise that the enchanting loch is linked with mythical creatures.
Buried deep underground near the Northern Irish town of Florencecourt is a magnificent network of limestone caves. Formed over millions of years and named after a nearby limestone arch, the Marble Arch Caves were first discovered by two explorers in 1895. Featuring striking rock formations, a tranquil cave river and a sandy underground beach, the caves have become a much-loved tourist hotspot.
One of England’s biggest waterfalls, High Force crashes into a rocky gorge that crowns the Upper Teesdale valley in County Durham. Fed by the River Tee, the waterfall drops an incredible 70 feet (21m) into a plunge pool below, slicing through rock dating back millions of years. Surrounded by the gorgeous North Pennines, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty known for its wildlife and plants, High Force is a sight to behold.
Tucked inside a scenic pocket of North London, Hampstead Heath offers unbeatable views of the city skyline. Sprawling across over 800 acres, the wild park is thought to date back as far as the 16th century. Home to a mix of lush woodland, picturesque meadows and swimming ponds, the heath showcases some of London’s most gorgeous natural scenery.
Considered one of Scotland’s most impressive stretches of water, Loch Lomond is the shining centrepiece of Scotland’s first national park. Covering around 24 miles (37km), the freshwater loch is best known for featuring in the classic Scottish song The Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond. Surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque countryside, and studded with pretty islands and islets, the loch is a breathtaking sight.
Set within Somerset’s gorgeous countryside, Cheddar Gorge is one of the UK’s most unique natural landscapes. Measuring an impressive 400 feet (122m) deep and three miles long (5km), it is the largest gorge in England. Characterised by its limestone cliffs, its steep slopes were formed around one million years ago when melting glaciers carved out the rocks during the last Ice Age. The gorge was also where Britain’s oldest complete skeleton was found.
This awe-inspiring limestone cliff in the Yorkshire Dales National Park has wowed tourists for decades. Shaped by water and ice during the last Ice Age, the 260-foot-high (80m) curve is one of the park’s most stunning features. With its sheer drop and unparalleled views across the Dales from its limestone pavement at the top (pictured), the Cove is popular with climbers and hikers.
Dartmoor has plenty of stunning scenery, but nothing quite like the mysterious trees of Wistman’s Wood. A twisted tangle of gnarled dwarf oak trees and moss-covered boulders, the ancient forest is thought to be one of the highest and oldest oak woodlands in the country. With its tranquil location among Dartmoor’s wild landscape, the eerie green canopy is home to a large population of adders, one of Britain’s only native snakes.
Rising high above the Lake District at an eye-watering 3,209 feet (978m), Scafell Pike holds the title of England’s tallest mountain. With its steep hills, rugged cliffs and formidable summit, Scafell Pike is part of the National Three Peaks Challenge, where climbers take on the three highest mountains in the UK. It is also home to England's highest war memorial, commemorating the men who perished in the First World War. Its lofty summit provides panoramic views of the area’s most spectacular scenery.
Shaped over centuries by the elements, these unusual rock formations decorate Brimham Moor in North Yorkshire. During the 18th century, the unusually shaped rocks were thought to have been made by druids and were a popular attraction for Victorians to visit. Ice, water and wind carving away at the rocks millions of years ago are what actually caused the formations, leaving behind the bizarre geological wonder that can be seen today.
A highlight of the Isle of Skye, the Fairy Pools are as enchanting as their name suggests. Sitting at the foot of the Black Cuillin range in Glenbrittle, the rock pools are fed by a string of shimmering waterfalls trailing spring water from the mountains above. With its vibrant blue and green shades of impossibly clear water, the Fairy Pools look heavenly.
Nestled on Wales’ southwest coast in Abereiddy, this is a sparkling wonder of Pembrokeshire. The Blue Lagoon is the remains of an abandoned slate quarry that was flooded by the sea after its outer wall eroded. Named after the beautiful waters, its brilliant blue colour was caused by minerals from the submerged slate. Bordered by stunning dark sandy beaches and craggy rocks, the lagoon is a hub for water sports.
Lying just off the coast of Cornwall, this gorgeous archipelago looks a world away from mainland Britain. Characterised by its pristine sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, sub-tropical gardens and blue waters, the spectacular islands look like a tropical sanctuary. With only five of the islands being inhabited, the majority are filled with unspoilt scenery, providing a safe haven for wildlife and seabirds.
The Yorkshire Dales are littered with some truly incredible natural wonders, but Gaping Gill is surely among the most breathtaking. Home to the largest underground cave chamber in Britain, its main chamber measures a staggering 423 feet (129m) long and 102 feet (31m) high. The spectacular Fell Beck stream trickles into the cave from Ingleborough (the second highest mountain in the Yorkshire Dales), forming a pretty underground waterfall.
One of Britain’s most recognised landmarks, the White Cliffs frame Dover’s famous coastline. Dating back millions of years, the remains of ocean creatures and algae that sank to the bottom of the sea are what formed the iconic white cliffs. With their spectacular position overlooking the English Channel and distant French coast, the chalk cliffs are a huge symbol of national pride.
Set within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, this spectacular sea arch punctures the Welsh coastline. Named after the green vegetation that covers its surface, the Green Bridge of Wales was formed by years of erosion, causing the solid rock to collapse and create its dramatic shape. Measuring roughly 80 feet (24m) high, and extending into the bay against a beautiful backdrop of coastal scenery, the bridge is an impressive landmark of the southwest coast.
This stunning string of white chalk cliffs forms part of Southeast England's unspoilt coastline. Sat between the towns of Eastbourne and Seaford, the Seven Sisters get their bold white colour from the sea, which is eroding the cliffs at a rapid rate. The gorgeous coastline and surrounding countryside can be found within the spectacular South Downs National Park.
A beauty of Dorset’s famous Jurassic Coast, Lulworth Cove is a scallop-shaped slice of paradise. Formed by seawater eating into the shore thousands of years ago, it is one of the finest examples of a natural cove in the world. Home to shimmery blue waters, a white pebble beach and rock pools teeming with sea life, it is a real highlight of the region.
Possibly Orkney’s most famous attraction, the Old Man of Hoy sits just off Scotland’s west coast. Soaring high at around 450 feet (137m), the red sandstone rock column is one of the tallest sea stacks in the British Isles. First conquered by mountaineers in 1966, the stack quickly became a climbing haven for thrill-seekers. The fragile nature of the rock can make it a difficult task, but with its unparalleled views across the Atlantic Ocean it continues to attract climbers from around the world.
Hidden in County Antrim’s Glenariff Nature Reserve is one of Northern Ireland’s most picturesque series of waterfalls. With its rocky gorges, tumbling cascades and peaceful rivers that trail through the surrounding woodland, it's clear why part of the glen has been designated as a National Nature Reserve. A timber boardwalk winds through the landscape, providing plenty of viewpoints to enjoy the beauty of the falls.
Situated right off the coast of the Scottish island of Staffa, Fingal’s Cave is an otherworldly sight. Formed millions of years ago by the same lava flow that carved out the famous Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, its symmetrical hexagonal basalt columns are so perfect that many struggle to believe that they aren't man-made. Towering 227 feet (69m) over the ocean, the spectacular sea cave is one of Scotland’s most mesmerising natural features.
Named one of the Seven Wonders of Wales, this beautiful cascade can be found nestled near the English border. Fed by the Berwyn Mountains and falling from 240 feet (73m) high, Pistyll Rhaeadr is the tallest single-drop waterfall in the UK. With its sheer beauty and peaceful surroundings, the falls are a remarkable sight.
Perched on the Isle of Skye, just off Scotland’s northwestern coast, this jagged rock formation is shrouded in myth. According to Scottish folklore, the Old Man was a giant and, after being buried in the earth, his thumb was left visible above ground. With its rugged pinnacles of rock looming over the hills of the Trotternish Ridge, it is one of the most famous landscapes in Scotland.
Located at John O’Groats, the most northeastern tip of mainland Britain, Duncansby Head is home to some of the finest sea stacks in the UK. Towering an estimated 197 feet (60m) high just off the coast, the jagged rocks are thought to date back thousands of years, and are slowly being worn away by water. With their formidable appearance looming above the North Sea, the stacks are thought to guard the Scottish shores against its unpredictable and often perilous tides.
A renowned beauty spot in the South Downs, Devil’s Dyke is a real gem of West Sussex. Stretching for almost a mile, it is the longest, deepest and widest ‘dry’ valley in the UK. Steeped in myths and legends, some believe that the devil himself dug up the valley to wipe out Christianity, hence the name. Set against rolling hills and dotted with scenic trails, including the famous South Downs Way, Devil’s Dyke features some of the prettiest landscapes in the southeast.
Tangled in folklore, the tales of Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire have drawn visitors for centuries. Home to nearly 1,000 ancient oak trees, the forest is best known for its most famous resident, Robin Hood. According to folklore, the legendary outlaw would hide among the trees with his merry men as they stole from the rich and gave to the poor. With its legendary past and enchanting trees, Sherwood Forest continues to be one of England's most magical destinations.
Jutting out from England’s east coast and recognisable thanks to a stretch of soaring white cliffs, Flamborough Head is one of the most prominent spots on the Yorkshire coastline. Its famous chalk cliffs are home to one of the most important seabird colonies in Europe, including a rare colony of gannets. Beyond the cliffs, the picturesque beaches are dotted with rock pools filled with sea creatures while its Grade II-listed lighthouse watches over the North Sea.
Looming over 2,000 feet (636m) above sea level, Kinder Scout is the highest point in the Peak District. The grassy plateau was the site of the famous Mass Trespass in 1932, where walkers protested their right to access open moorland without persecution. Today, with its gentle streams, rocky expanses and unbeatable views across the park, Kinder Scout symbolises a historical turning point in the formation of national parkland.
A spectacular stretch of sand flanked by soaring sandstone cliffs, West Bay beautifully frames its namesake fishing village in West Dorset. Situated on the Jurassic Coast, the bay is home to two beaches, East Beach, a sloping sandy strip backed by sandstone cliffs, and West Beach, a smaller more peaceful beach popular with families. Some may remember East Beach as a filming location for the TV crime drama Broadchurch.
Another jewel of Dorset’s famous Jurassic Coast, this incredible natural arch would look quite at home in the Mediterranean. Carved out by the sea around 10,000 years ago, Durdle Door is a world-renowned beauty spot. With its golden stretches of sand, towering chalk cliffs and blue waters, it's easy to see why the Jurassic Coast became England's first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001.
Lying in a remote corner of Sutherland in the northwest Highlands, Suilven may not be Scotland’s biggest mountain, but its unique appearance puts it among the most impressive. Made up of three distinct peaks, its highest point, Caisteal Liath, meaning 'The Grey Castle' in Gaelic, can be found on the mountain’s rugged northwest ridge. With its peculiar policeman’s helmet-like shape dominating the Assynt’s wild landscape, Suilven is one of the most awe-inspiring mountains in the UK.
This dreamy little cove punctures Cornwall’s coastline on the west side of the Lizard Peninsula near Mount’s Bay. Famed for its pristine white sand, towering sea stacks, colourful serpentine rocks and glittering turquoise waters, Kynance Cove is among Cornwall’s most idyllic places.
Dominating the northwest Scottish Highlands, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the UK. Spiralling a staggering 4,413 feet (1,345m) above Fort William, it is characterised by its steep ridges, rocky summit and picturesque glens that slice through its sheer slopes. With its dizzying height, Ben Nevis is one of the top walking routes in the world, typically attracting around 125,000 walkers per year.
Often described as one of Britain's best beaches, Barafundle Bay is known for its remote natural beauty. With its stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, it's often compared to the beaches of the Caribbean. Sheltered by high cliffs and rugged terrain with the nearest car park half a mile away, the bay’s isolated location provides gorgeous views of the unspoilt Pembrokeshire coastline.
Located in the southeastern region of the Lake District, this vast body of water is like an inland sea in the middle of Cumbria’s countryside. Stretching an impressive 10.5 miles long (18km) and 220 feet deep (67m), Windermere is the longest and largest natural lake in England. With its miles and miles of pretty water set amongst rolling hills and tranquil woodland, the lake is a prime destination for water sports, including kayaking, canoeing and boating.
One of Snowdonia’s most famous peaks, the formidable Glyder Fawr is the tallest of the Glyderau mountain range. Measuring just over 3,284 feet (1,001m) high, it's one of the highest mountains in Wales, characterised by the series of spiky shards that rise from its peak like the back of a giant reptile. Those brave enough to climb its rocky summit are rewarded with epic views across Snowdonia’s rugged landscape.
Tucked away on the western shores of South Harris in the Outer Hebrides, Luskentyre Sands is a Scottish hidden gem. With its miles of pristine white sand and eye-popping blue waters, it is often voted the most beautiful beach in the UK. Framed by the soaring peaks of the North Harris mountain range, the beach is Scotland’s own version of an exotic paradise.
Stretching out of England’s southern coastline, the Old Harry Rocks mark the most easterly point of the Jurassic Coast. Their name comes from the single chalk stack that can be seen furthest out to sea, known as Old Harry. There was a second stack known as Harry’s Old Wife before erosion caused it to sadly tumble away in 1896. Jutting out against the turquoise sea and sky, the striking rock formations are another highlight of the famous coast.
Probably Northern Ireland’s – and the UK's – most iconic natural attraction, this mythical geographical wonder is the region’s only designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. As its name suggests, the causeway is linked to two giants, Irish Finn McCool and his enemy Benandonner from Scotland. Legend has it that the basalt steps were built by Finn as a pathway to Benandonner. The spectacular 40,000 hexagonal steps continue to wow sightseers from across the globe.