Up until a “penny drop moment” last year, we’d been so obsessed with the idea of trying to see as much of the world as possible (outside of the UK) that we’d completely overlooked what was in our own “back garden”. The UK is a treasure trove of amazing sights to see, things to do and even arguably, foods to eat.
From that point onwards, however, we’ve actively looked out for new experiences to be had, right here at home! We’ll cut to the chase shall we and cover some unique experiences that you can have right here in the Great British countryside.
Take a look, below, at the best experience to have in the British countryside.
Experiences To Have In The British Countryside
1.) Go zip-lining down Mount Snowdon
Mount Snowdon is the tallest mountain in England and Wales and the zip-line here is also the longest in Europe. The views are stunning from the top and get even better as you zip past the mountain and the stunning British scenery. We loved it!
Then there’s also the adrenaline rush that comes with zip-lining too.
2.) Go hot air ballooning across the British countryside
While it’s great to rent a little cottage somewhere and an absolutely must-do, you also need to put on your wellies and get lost in the countryside, there’s no better way to get the best view of the British countryside than from high up in a hot air balloon.
The view is definitely unparalleled and one that you’ll remember for quite some time to come.
3.) Visit a little bit of Italy in Wales
The journey here on the train is rather scenic to start with and you can even stop off at Harlech castle, which although is impressive in its own rights, you still need to say farewell to and finally end up at Portmeirion.
Portmeirion was built over 50 years in the style of a traditional Italian village and is an impressive place to spend a day in. It’s even got its own cute beach to go with beautiful colourful houses.
Read more: Best things to do in Wales
4.) Travel aboard the Hogwarts Express
The real train from the Harry Potter movies (along with the route) is actually the Jacobite Express which travels along some of the most scenic routes in not only Scotland but across all of the UK.
It also has pit stops in some of the most beautiful places in Scotland and is definitely worth exploring in the UK.
Read more: Best things to do in the Highlands
5.) See Puffins, Seals and Whales
Seriously, it’s so good that William and Kate (yes, the very same Royal couple) used to head out here during their St Andrews days (as did Camilla when she visited) come to think of it, so did Tom Hanks (whose daughter studied at St Andrews) and Robert De Niro. Celebrities aside though, when you head over to Anstruther, you’ll understand what all the hype is about.
Now in Anstruther, you can catch a boat to Isle of May where you’ll have the opportunity to see one of the UK’s most prized birds – the Puffin, amongst grey seals, the odd Minke whales and many other beautiful birds. Definitely a magnificent day out in Scotland.
Read more: Best things to do in Fife
6.) Experience the Edinburgh Fringe Festival
This is the exception on the list as it’s actually a city but I just couldn’t resist putting this in there.
This month-long event in Edinburgh is definitely one of a kind. It’s the biggest arts festival in the world and it’s one of the most exciting places to be in the UK come summertime.
Edinburgh comes alive (though the price of accommodation skyrockets) and all the best comedians, actors and performers roam the Scottish capital just to make sure you have a brilliant time!
Read more: Best things to do in Edinburgh
7.) Visit the UK’s ‘tropical’ Islands – The Isles of Scilly
This set of islands off the coast of Cornwall is like a little slice of the Caribbean in the UK.
The clear blue waters, beautiful scenery and fantastic weather make this a must-visit in the UK. (See our posts on the Isles of Scilly here for more details).
Read more: Best places to visit in the UK