The best views in the UK: 11 stunning sites
On the search for the best views in the UK? From dramatic mountain vistas to the glittering lights of the city, there’s a whole host of gorgeous places across England and Wales. To give you some inspiration for your travels, here are 11 of our favourite locations that are well worth ticking off your ‘must-see’ list when you get the chance!
1. Lake Windermere
Location: Cumbria
Best for: Enjoying the sights while on a relaxing lake cruise
First up on our list is possibly the most gorgeous lake in the entire Lake District. Spanning across ten miles, it’s the largest natural lake in the whole of England, let alone Cumbria, making it a popular choice for scenic cruises and boat tours on its calm waters.
2. Pen y Fan
Location: Brecon Beacons
Best for: Soaking up the awe-inspiring panoramas of the Brecon Beacons National Park
Discover the natural beauty of Mid Wales from the summit of Pen y Fan. Translating to ‘top spot’, this aptly-named peak is the tallest in the Brecon Beacons. From the top, you’ll get to enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding fields and valleys – a patchwork of verdant greens as far as the eye can see.
3. St Ives
Location: Cornwall
Best for: Gazing across the sweeping sea vistas of the Cornish coast
The Cornish coastline is our little slice of paradise, right here in the UK. With its dreamy coastlines, sandy beaches and lovely seaside towns – it’s the perfect place for a summer holiday. Cornwall’s St Ives is among the most iconic of them all; a buzzing town full of art galleries, restaurants, and most importantly – gorgeous sea views.
4. Loch Ness
Location: Scottish Highlands
Best for: Keeping an eye out for old Nessie!
A huge, freshwater loch nestled within the wild and wonderful surroundings of the Scottish Highlands, the Loch Ness has become a folklore legend across the world. While we can’t promise you any sightings of the Loch Ness Monster, the magnificent views across its waters more than make up for the lack of Nessie!
5. The London Eye
Location: London
Best for: Enjoying the views before heading into the city streets
For those who prefer cityscapes over the sights of rolling hills, then the panoramic views from the London Eye are sure to please. The amazing scenery only seems to get even better at night, when London is illuminated by millions of twinkling lights. Other notable viewpoints in the city include the Tower of London and the spectacular skyline from the top of Parliament Hill.
6. Durdle Door
Location: Dorset
Best for: Discovering the prehistoric Jurassic Coast
A World Heritage Site stretching from East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset, the Jurassic Coast is full to the brim with breathtaking coastal sights. One of the most photographed of all is Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch created more than 10,000 years ago. Found just off of Lulworth Cove, this impressive landmark sees over 500,000 visitors a year.
7. Cheddar Gorge
Location: Somerset
Best for: Exploring the ancient caves within the gorge
A dramatic limestone gorge set within the stunning Mendip Hills, Cheddar Gorge is best known for its towering cliffs and stalactite caverns that lie beneath. Starting from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, a narrow road leads you further up into its cliffs – with various parking and viewing areas along the way so visitors can stop and soak up the spectacular views at their leisure.
If you’d like to learn more about Cheddar Gorge’s caves, as well as caving in general, find out more in our guide on caving in the UK.
8. Mam Tor
Location: Derbyshire
Best for: Making the most of the Peak District National Park
Often regarded as one of the most scenic hills in the entire Peak District National Park, Mam Tor boasts the most idyllic views across the rolling hillsides and valleys of Derbyshire. It’s become quite a hotspot, so you’ll need to head up early if you prefer to avoid the crowds.
9. Ben Nevis
Location: Scottish Highlands
Best for: Rewarding yourself with panoramic views after a challenging hike
Yet another breathtaking sight in the Highlands! The view from the summit of Ben Nevis definitely makes the climb worth it. On clear days, you can even see glimpses of Northern Ireland in the distance. If you’re in the area, you’ll find plenty more awe-inspiring views in the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park.
10. The Ribblehead Viaduct
Location: Yorkshire
Best for: Having a picnic while making the most of the views
Crossing between Cumbria and the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the Ribblehead Viaduct is part of the Settle-Carlisle Railway in Yorkshire. Spanning 28 miles, this impressive Grade II* listed structure was first opened in 1875 and continues to serve the railway line to this day.
11. Mount Snowdon
Location: Snowdonia
Best for: Visiting in the winter and seeing its snow-capped peaks
It will probably come as no surprise to see Mount Snowdon on our list. This mighty peak stands at 1,085 metres above sea level, making it the highest point in the British Isles. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear day, you’ll be able to experience the most incredible views across the surrounding valleys and mountain tops of Snowdonia.
