The United Kingdom is infamous for its diverse landscapes. For such a small place, we are host to a wide range of terrains that other countries can only dream of. The icy mountain tops of Scotland, deep valleys and waterfalls of Wales, enchanting forests of the English countryside and ancient, Celtic caverns of Northern Ireland all make up some of the most stunning natural wonders of the world. There may not be any Great Pyramids or Hanging Gardens of Babylon, but the United Kingdom offers lesser known places that are just as impressive.
Here, Independent Cottages gives you the ultimate guide to the UK’s top ten natural wonders:
- Cheddar Gorge in Somerset – This limestone gorge is found in the Mendip Hills, near the village of Cheddar in Somerset. Home to many caves, filled with stalactites and stalagmites, the mystery of the gorge leaves visitors in awe. The cliffs at either side offer an unbelievable sight, with the gorge reminding us just how amazing nature can be.
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Lulworth Cove in Dorset
Lulworth Cove in Dorset – Found on Dorset’s coastline, the arc of the cove is stunning in shape and perfectly balanced. As part of the Jurassic Coast (a natural wonder in itself!), a World Heritage Site along the shores of the English Channel, the cove is rich in history, boasting over 180 million years of geology along its shoreline. The natural limestone arch of Durdle Door is close by; it’s shape offering a key-hole glimpse of the beautiful horizon.
- Scafell Pike in the Lake District – As the highest mountain in England, Scafell Pike is found within the hills and mountainous terrain of the Lake District. From the top of the summit, the views of the English countryside are phenomenal. Many climb to the top, while others prefer to gaze up at its seemingly never-ending height.
- Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim – Myth and legend surround this natural wonder of Northern Ireland. As the result of a volcanic eruption, these extraordinary basalt columns form an impressive structure upon County Antrim’s coastline. Other structures can be found within the Causeway, each with their own legendary Celtic story.
- Pistyll Rhaeadr in Powys – This spectacular Welsh waterfall tumbles down in
Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall in Powys
three stages over a towering 73 metre cliff face. Wildlife is rich in this area and natural arches have formed in the rock, producing a magical view. Visitors to the waterfall are left inspired by its height, beauty and abundance of surrounding nature.
- High Force in Durham – High Force is a powerful waterfall with a fall of 71 metres. Found in the North Pennines, High Force drops from its great height into the River Tees. A woodland walk leads the way to the site, where you can hear the powerful roar of the water as you edge closer to the cascade.
- The Needles off the Isle of Wight – The Needles are a row of three towering stalks of chalk in the sea, off the Isle of Wight. A scenic boat trip to The Needles, and neighbouring lighthouse, is a great way to experience these structures close up. Dotting out into the sea, they provide an unusual and fascinating view from the shoreline.
- Fingal’s Cave on the Isle of Staffa – This sea cave lies on the mystical and uninhibited Isle of Staffa. Its naturally arched roof and hexagonal-columned structure combine with the power of the waves to create eerie sounds. Known as An Uaimh Bhinn, the melodious cave, this ancient Gaelic structure is a truly impressive natural wonder.
- Northern Lights seen from the Shetland Isles – The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a colourful display that light up the night sky in the North. The best time to see the lights is in the cold winter months, especially January. The Shetland Isles are an ideal place to see this amazing theatrical display of nature. However, the Isle of Skye also offers a great chance of witnessing The Northern Lights, without travelling quiet so far!
- Malham Cove in the Yorkshire Dales – Malham Cove is featured in our Guide to the Yorkshire Dales and can be found in North Yorkshire. The striking limestone of the cliff faces are mirrored by the limestone pavement which appears to stretch for miles across its top. Within the cove is a beautiful green landscape, made more noticeable against the white backdrop. Malham Cove is also famous for being featured in the film, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows!
The limestone pavement at the top of Malham Cove
These are just a few of the natural wonders available to you when visiting the United Kingdom. The beauty of the land and sea hold no bounds, with personal adventures worthwhile for uncovering unique, natural treasures. From the majestic White Cliffs of Dover in the south, to the dazzling Northern Lights of the north, there are a plethora of natural wonders dotted throughout the UK just waiting to impress you.
The Jurassic Coast runs from Exmouth in the west to Lyme Regis in the east and surrounds all of Lyme Bay. A World Heritage coastline made up of tall sandstone cliffs, famous for fossils and dinosaur pieces.
Towns along the coastline are Sidmouth, Seaton, Branscombe, Beer, Exmouth (all east devon) and Lyme Regis and Charmouth (west dorset). Slightly inland are Honiton, Axminster, Ottery St Mary. The coastal path also runs along the top of these famous cliffs.