The UK's National Landscapes

Our favourite National Landscapes

Spending time in nature is more than a getaway – it’s a way to reconnect with something essential. Be it wandering quiet woodlands, kayaking along glassy waterways, or walking through fields of wildflowers, escaping to nature has a unique power to restore us. In these spaces, we find a sense of calm and renewal that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Thankfully, there are landscapes across the UK that feel as if they were crafted just for this purpose, where beauty and tranquillity are cherished and protected for us all. Formerly known as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, these National Landscapes play a vital role not only in our country’s heritage, but in our own wellbeing too.

In this guide, we share some of our favourite National Landscapes and nearby hideaways that offer perfect opportunities for wild escapism – where nature surrounds and a feeling of peace is only a step outside the door.

What is a National Landscape?

There are 46 designated National Landscapes in the UK, recognised for their breathtaking beauty and rich history. Formerly known as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, their status as designated National Landscapes helps to preserve important scenic, ecological, and cultural characteristics and connect all generations with the outdoors.

Located across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, each National Landscape is celebrated for unique features and traits, from striking geology and biodiversity to distinct microclimates. Often, these elements intertwine with local industry, heritage, and, in some cases, even dialects - creating uniquely captivating destinations for soul-soothing hideaways throughout the year.

Why are they important?

National Landscapes play an important role in preserving the UK’s countryside and coast, ensuring their health long into the future. From farmland to salt marsh to moor, they are often rich in wildlife and support both local ecosystems and agriculture.

As well as protecting native flora and fauna, National Landscapes can also contribute to climate change mitigation by rewilding areas and creating natural solutions, from managing flood risks to sequestering carbon.

On a community level, National Landscapes encourage access to green spaces and immersion in nature, positively impacting wellbeing and promoting a connection to the environment - from salt-kissed coastal swathes to snow-capped fells.

North Pennines National Landscape, Yorkshire

Best for: Wildflower Meadows

Nestled between the Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland National Parks, the North Pennines is the second largest National Landscape in the UK and perfect for wilderness escapes. Calling to keen hikers, its miles of public pathways promise everything from serene meadow walks and secluded picnic spots to abundant wildlife encounters and hilltop views. One of its most beautiful landmarks, High Force is celebrated as one of the biggest waterfalls in England and paints a beautiful backdrop for riverside rambles.

A haven for wildlife, the North Pennines is home to 40% of the UK’s upland hay meadows and also provides sanctuary for an array of rare wildlife, including breeding wading birds, red squirrels, otters, and Arctic-alpine plants. Loved for its exceptionally dark skies, it’s also known as one of the best places to stargaze in the UK. Head out and explore the landscapes by day, before bundling up in the cosiest layers and venturing out under starlight, ready to enjoy the magically clear skies for space station-spotting and comet-catching.

Where to stay: Sammi's Freight Train | This stunning upcycled railway carriage sits on the edge of a working farm, with tranquil views of green pastures and an outdoor hot tub for soaking up the scenery.

Dorset National Landscape, Dorset

Best for: Wildlife Watching

Dubbed the ‘wildlife capital of England’ and one of the most famous fossil troves in the UK, Dorset National Landscape is one of the best places imaginable for exploring the great outdoors. For the nature lovers, 83% of British mammal, 48% of bird, and 70% of butterfly species can all be found in Dorset. Meanwhile, its remarkable geology and Jurassic Coast reveal the region’s rich diversity of life across 185 million years (and three geological periods in time).

With such a fascinating past and boundless natural beauty, this enchanting landscape has unsurprisingly inspired artists and writers for centuries, from Thomas Hardy to JMW Turner. Discover its breathtaking coastlines, rolling hills, and lush woodlands for yourself, ready to find inspiration at every turn as you write the pages of your own adventure.

Where to stay: Toby's Hut | This colourful shepherd’s hut has unspoilt views of the gentle rolling hills of Dorset. Perfect for a romantic, rural getaway, it even comes with an open fire and an outdoor bathtub.

Isle of Wight National Landscape, Isle of Wight

Best for: Rural Escapes

The Isle of Wight is a picture of pastoral paradise, with sheep and cattle grazing across verdant landscapes, framed by patches of forestry and an endless coastline. With over half of the island designated as a National Landscape, it’s truly one of the best places to go for scenic escapes and a hearty dose of rejuvenating island living.

To wend past some of the island’s most mesmeric scenery, follow the King Charles III Coastal Path and drink in the views of rolling chalk grassland, untamed salt marsh, and striking cliffs overlooking the vast ocean. Particularly inviting, the unique microclimate of Ventnor brings warmer temperatures year-round, while the towering cliffs of Compton Bay rank amongst the top stargazing spots in the UK. By day, this stretch is equally popular with bathers and surfers, drawing salt-tousled pros to its waves and beachgoers to its golden sands.

Where to stay: Stargazer’s Retreat | Nestled on the southerly tip of the Isle of Wight, with elevated views over the ocean, this cosy yurt is an enchanting haven no matter the season.

High Weald National Landscape, Sussex, Kent and Surrey

Best for: mediaeval history

The High Weald National Landscape is a spectacular region in Sussex, Kent, and Surrey. Featuring a picturesque patchwork of fields and woodlands, it encompasses a wealth of open grassland, hummocky hills, serene river valleys and broadleaf woodlands. In fact, so dense are its woodland swathes that the Weald is renowned as one of the most wooded areas in the country.

Considered one of the best-preserved mediaeval landscapes in Europe, the High Weald National Landscape is especially celebrated for its captivating past. Embrace a journey through history as you wander its enchanting sites, discovering the remnants of ancient communities and medieval happenings. Offering an unmissable window through time, the Wonders of the Weald are bucketlist musts and feature castles, vineyards, historic spa towns and more.

Where to stay: Matilda | This mediaeval-inspired hideout helps you to connect to the unique landscape, including folklore tales, a vibrant colour palette and cosy rustic features.

Quantock Hills National Landscape, Somerset

Best for: Birdwatching

As England’s first designated National Landscape, Somerset’s Quantock Hills weave a tapestry of wild beauty. From deep, wooded valleys (or combes) to wildflower heathlands and ancient woodlands, its habitats are as gorgeous as they are diverse. Having once inspired the Romantic poets with its dramatic landscapes, the area continues to present an unrivalled muse for creative expression and wilderness immersion.

One of the best activities to enjoy in the Quantocks is birdwatching. A dedicated Important Bird Area (IBA) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), it is well-known for its visiting and resident dwellers. When the elements align, birdwatchers can enjoy the chance to see yellowhammer, stonechat, pied flycatcher, and nightjar. If you’re lucky, you may also catch sight of peregrine falcons, as well as charming bats in the evening’s dusky glow.

Where to stay: Lamb’s Tale | Nestled in the beautiful Quantock Hills, this hygge-filled, dog-friendly hideaway for two is the perfect base for exploring acres of quiet woodland and ancient moorland - all before relaxing in the alfresco hot tub.

Tamar Valley National Landscape, Devon and Cornwall

Best for: peaceful river walks

One of the newest National Landscapes, the Tamar Valley straddles the border of Devon and Cornwall and beckons for exploration. Comprising quintessential countryside and valley scenes and woven with rivers flowing gracefully to the sea, it offers something to see at every turn. Amble along the Landscapes’ many pathways or make your way around its cycleways to discover a multitude of sights and sites.

Along the way, wind through ancient woodland and countryside to catch glimpses of disused copper mines, mediaeval stone bridges, charming farmsteads, and grand estates. Ensure you also keep your eyes peeled as you pass the riverbanks for the resident wildlife, such as prehistoric-looking egrets and spoonbills.

Where to stay: Nellie's Nook | This pretty shepherd’s hut is perfectly positioned between the Tamar Valley and Dartmoor National Park. Enjoy moonlit dips in the hot tub, a sense of tranquillity, and plenty of open scenery.

Cornwall National Landscape, Cornwall

Best for: outdoor activities

The Cornwall National Landscape is a diverse region divided into twelve distinct sections, each showcasing the unique beauty of this southern county. The rugged north coast features towering cliffs, stunning golden sunsets, and the UNESCO-listed Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape.

In contrast, the south offers sheltered coves, ancient wooded riverbanks perfect for swimming, and charming fishing villages that reflect Cornwall’s rich maritime history. This area is renowned for its geology, including serpentine on the Lizard Peninsula and mineral-rich granite intrusions around Land’s End. Bodmin Moor presents a wild landscape dotted with ancient stone tors, offering solitude and natural beauty around every wind-hewn corner.

With abundant outdoor activities and historical sites, the Cornwall National Landscape is a favourite destination for walking, cycling, swimming, surfing, and relaxation - from ocean gazing in sheltered bays to watching sunsets sink over fairytale castles.

Where to stay: Henrosa | This luxury, cedar-clad hideout, is just a stone’s throw from Cornwall’s beautiful north coast. It’s also dog-friendly meaning the whole family can come along.

Ready to explore some of the most stunning parts of the UK? Many of our hideaways are located next to or within National Landscapes for unforgettable holidays in nature.