The UK has three National Parks in Europe’s top five!
We’ve been pretty effusive in our praise of the UK’s National Parks in the past – and why wouldn’t we? Soaring peaks, dramatic waterfalls, mystic woodlands, and windswept moors all mark the nation’s National Parks out as bucket list destinations. Happily, we’re not the only ones who think so, as TripAdvisor has revealed their list of the best National Parks in Europe, as part of their Traveller’s Choice Awards.
It’s the first time they’ve had a Traveller’s Choice category for National Parks, and whilst a National Park is about the only thing Bristol lacks, we can be rightfully proud of the UK’s success. Topping the list as the best park in Europe is the Yorkshire Dales, which may only be the third-biggest park in the UK, but nonetheless stands alone as the TripAdvisor champion. The dramatic limestone cliff of Malham Cove, the three-tiered waterfall of Aysgarth Falls, and a train trip across the Ribblehead Viaduct are just some of the delights you can enjoy here.
Second place belonged to the stark, icy beauty of Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland, whilst the stunning turquoise waters of Plitviče Lakes National Park in Croatia proved a worthy third. However, the UK rebounded to claim the fourth and fifth spots, capping an excellent effort. In fourth place was the Peak District, where the sheer number of activities on offer helped visitors fall in love with it. (See our guide on the best places to visit in the Peak District here.) Finally, fifth place belongs to the New Forest.
The results mark a fine month for UK National Parks, whose beauty also allowed the nation to nab a spot on a list as one of the best countries for National Parks. Maybe time to get planning your next staycation, then?