We've written a few posts about the Midlands (my area of birth) in the past: Stonehenge and neighbouring Neolithic sites, some of my favourite walks and footpaths in the UK... today, we bring you a post about the North! While London has long been the favoured destination for international visitors and ‘staycationers’ in the United Kingdom, the North of England is becoming increasingly prevalent as a hotspot for tourists. From diverse local cultures, friendly people and stunning scenery to world-class food, nightlife and attractions, the North has got a lot to offer - but what are the best places to visit?
#1. The Lake District
With more than 19 million tourists visiting in 2018, the Lake District is a prime location for tourists looking to get away from it all. Situated in Cumbria in North-West England, the Lake District is famous for its outstanding natural beauty and is listed as a World Heritage Site. Whether you want to go climbing, hiking, open-water swimming or canoeing, the Lake District is perfectly suited to an adventurous getaway with the family or a solo idyllic getaway. The area is easily accessible by train, with journeys from London and Manchester taking approximately 2.5 hours and 1.5 hours respectively.
#2. Whitby
As one of the most iconic and picturesque seaside towns in the UK, there are plenty of reasons to visit Whitby. With a rich sea-faring history, this beautiful town is home to a mix of stunning natural beauty, gothic architecture, and traditional coastal culture.
If you’re interested in the gothic history of Whitby, consider walking up the cliff to Whitby Abbey and St Mary’s Churchyard, which offers stunning overhead views of the town and is notable for being a key inspiration for the novel Dracula - you can even have fish and chips on the bench where Bram Stoker made his notes for the book!
#3. Peak District
Located in the heart of England and covering 550 miles, the Peak District was the first national park to be established in England. Home to diverse natural landscapes incorporating vast networks of cycleways, viaducts, reservoirs and wildlife habitats, the Peak District is worth visiting for its breathtaking views alone. Because over a third of the park is protected as an area for national conservation, tourists will be able to savour the sights of this beautiful region for many years to come.
#4. Liverpool
While this iconic Northern city may be best known for footie and the Fab Four, there’s much more to Liverpool than just sports and music. Easily accessible from London in around 2 hours by train, Liverpool is a rapidly growing city that’s home to a diverse population of locals, students and international residents. Notable attractions available to enjoy in this tourist-friendly town include buzzing nightlife, the Velocity Widnes inflatable park, the historic Williamson Tunnels, St George’s Hall, and the Royal Albert Docks - check out the Cavern Club or the British Music Experience to learn more about The Beatles and the city’s rich association with pop music.
What about you, what are your favourite places in the North of England? Feel free to share with us below!
Share this:
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
Disqus Comment
Facebook Comment