The Brecon Beacons could be an ideal holiday destination for both walkers and families at any time of the year.

Anyone that enjoys walking in the Lake District or other rambling hotspots throughout the country might like to visit the Brecon Beacons in the near future as the Welsh national park has something to suit all tastes.

But the stunningly scenic location has much more to offer than just great walking trails and therefore could be ideal for either an action-packed family holiday or a peaceful and idyllic weekend staycation break.

Indeed, Wyn Morgan, warden and walk leader for the Brecon Beacons national park, has told the region’s official website that he wants people to understand the work of the national park and also how beautiful the countryside there is.

He went on to state that the area’s purpose is to be enjoyed by visitors and commented that “it’s the people who live here and work the land that make these places so beautiful” before advising anyone going to the park: “If they could remember one thing, it would be how exciting and wonderful a walk in the countryside can be”.

Despite the fact that there are many other attractions and activities within the boundaries of the Brecon Beacons to keep visitors of any age entertained and content on their holiday, the region’s walking routes are what it is most well-known for.

With various high peaks, the park offers expert walkers some of the UK’s most challenging trails. But, in equal measure, there are also easier and slightly less daunting rambling options open to those who are either not as experienced or confident enough to attempt to scale some of Britain’s toughest – yet most rewarding – paths.

Furthermore, in terms of walking, the Brecon Beacons affords visitors plenty of flexibility and freedom when it comes to selecting their chosen routes as it seeks to allow people the opportunity to choose individually how they spend their well-earned time away.

For example, guided walks – which are quite similar to taking a guided tour when you visit a city – involve a highly-trained expert accompanying ramblers on their trek in order to provide them with their knowledge and experience of the best routes and places to visit.

Meanwhile, the park’s authorities have made it easier for people unsure about how far or difficult they want their walk to be by splitting these guided walks into three categories – moderate, energetic and strenuous.

However, for any visitors who prefer to go it alone, the Brecon Beacons has also developed a wide range of self-guided walks on popular trails such as Abergavenny to Llanfoist Wharf, Cwm Gwdi to Pen y Fan and Cribyn and Abergavenny to The Sugar Loaf. 

But, as was mentioned previously, the Brecon Beacons is about much more than just walking.

Visitors are able to spot some of Britain’s rarest wildlife within the park’s boundaries, meaning that lovers of nature, as well as the outdoors, could enjoy a break there.

Also, there are many traditional Welsh pubs and eateries dotted around the park, so whatever you have been doing during the day time, there are plenty of excellent options for food and drink of an evening in the Brecon Beacons.

The Peak District may also be ideal for holidays, as well as top class walking breaks.

Walking in the Peak District has long been one of many British ramblers’ favourite activities as the area offers some of the country’s best and most breathtaking natural scenery.

Situated in the centre of England, the Peak District was, according to its official tourism website, the first region in the UK to be granted National Park status. And it is clear when you visit the area that this award was not given out lightly, as its dramatic moorland and picturesque, rolling hills are enough to impress anybody.

However, despite its well-earned reputation as one of the leading destinations for ramblers of all ages and abilities across the country due to its wide range of different paths and trails of all difficulties, the Peak District could also be an ideal place to visit for a family holiday at any time of year.

“With a fascinating historical and cultural heritage, this unique and diverse region is home to some of the country’s finest stately homes [and] enchanting market towns,” the web page continued, meaning that the region may have something to keep everyone content and amused during a holiday there.

Any taste, budget and interest is catered for in this tourist hub at the heart of the country, which means that it could be ideal for breaks ranging from romantic getaways to fun family holidays.

For example, people who are interested in the history of the region might like to visit Derby’s Silk Mill, which is the city’s museum of industry and history and is renowned as the origin of the country’s Industrial Revolution, which changed the face of manufacturing and business across the globe in the 19^th century.

The Heage Windmill could also be another unmissable attraction as the sight of it is like taking a trip down memory lane due to its status as the country’s only remaining stone towered windmill.

Castles are a prevalent attraction in the Peak District, with Bolsover Castle – which is owned by the English Heritage organisation – providing re-enactments of battles and jousts between knights for the entertainment of visitors.

For those tourists who prefer more contemporary activities, nearby urban areas and conurbations such as Derby, Buxton, Matlock Bath and Ashbourne could be perfect alternatives while the history buffs among the party soak up sights such as the Bolsover Castle.

Meanwhile, any children – or adults who are simply young at heart – seeking an adrenaline rush and a fun day out might appreciate a trip to the country’s largest theme park, Alton Towers, which is also near to the Peak District.

And walkers who might want to diversify somewhat from a normal walk around the green open spaces of one of Britain’s most renowned rambling destinations may be interested to note that there are a number of official trails that take in some of the region’s towns.

These paths offer something a bit different to just walking in the countryside and trails through locations such as Derby, Swadlincote, Bakewell and Castleton give visitors the chance to see the Peak District from a different angle.

The New Forest National Park could be an ideal destination for both keen ramblers who are intent on treading some of the country’s scenic routes as well as families seeking an idyllic and peaceful getaway at any time of the year.

As a walking location, the New Forest is up there with the likes of the Peak District, the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales in terms of popularity as it offers a wide range of trails and paths of varying levels of difficulty and length to suit ramblers of all ages and abilities.

However, the Hampshire region could also be considered as a primary location for any family or party of friends wanting to get away from it all at any stage of the year thanks to its vast array of activities and amenities.

According to the Hampshire County Council’s website, the area offers visitors the opportunity to explore “heathland, ancient woodland, wetlands and grassy plains”, meaning that it caters for all types of walkers. It also features both “deciduous and coniferous” woodland, the website adds.

New-forest-national-park.com states that there are “potentially countless” walks for people to take on and enjoy throughout the year in the New Forest because it is one of the few national parks where there are very few restrictions in place on rambling in the region. 

The advisory website goes on to state that walking in the New Forest is an “excellent way to enjoy the scenery and atmosphere” of the tranquil area, as it combines long, winding Forestry Commission gravel tracks with grassy and sandy alternatives, meaning that most parts of the woodland are comfortably accessible.

In terms of the best walking routes to sample over the course of a stay in the New Forest, the page goes on to suggest numerous trails that could be suitable for both enthusiasts and families alike.

For example, the Acres Down walk, which is situated near the heart of the forest, could be ideal for visitors with children as it is just 2.5 miles in length so should take around one hour to complete. The route passes through a traditional hamlet named Minstead, which could be a great place to stop for a drink and a bite to eat as it features a rural pub.

Another popular path to take within the woodland is the Matley Walk, the portal notes. Situated to the east of Lyndhurst, the unofficial capital of the New Forest, the trail is a little more challenging than Acres Down as it is some 4.5 miles in length.

However, the effort of completing this walk is well worth it as it offers a true glimpse of the forest because it almost acts as a tour of the region.

Despite being one of the country’s best spots for walking, the New Forest also has much more to offer.

For instance, the woodland has many pubs dotted throughout its vast area, ranging from small, independent houses to large family-oriented chains the portal notes.

Also, animal fans are unlikely to be disappointed by the New Forest as it is almost certain that visitors will see New Forest ponies – all of which are owned and kept by locals – roaming free in the area.

Pembrokeshire’s Preseli Hills offer ramblers the ideal destination for a walking holiday at all times and for all ages thanks to its vast array of activity options 12 months a year.

According to travelbite.co.uk, the region can be enjoyed by walkers of any age group and ability thanks to the fact that it has trails and peaks ranging from difficulties that would challenge the most experienced rambler or fellwalker to more gentle options that can be easily negotiated by children and adults alike.

The range of mountains and hills form part of the northern area of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and rise to a point of 1758 feet above sea level at their highest point, which is known as Foel Cwmcerwyn, information-britain.org notes.

They represent one of Britain’s most historically significant mountain ranges as they were a major contributor to Wales’ slate industry and were extensively quarried at the time when the nation was at its industrial peak.

Remnants of the area’s slate industry can still be found throughout the region, with old quarries found regularly across the landscape. Meanwhile, Pembrokeshire offers a nod to its past by maintaining a slate workshop in the Llangolman region which still manufactures craft items using the material that, along with industries such as coal, formed the backbone of the Welsh economy in years gone by.

In fact, the Preseli Hills have a major claim to fame in so far as the bluestone rocks form the world-renowned Wiltshire landmark Stonehenge are known to originate from there.

Today, the hills are a magnificent sight and offer a genuine taste of true British scenic beauty.

Travelbite.co.uk goes on to state that, on a clear day, views from the summit of the peaks stretch as far as the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland, as well as Snowdonia, the Brecon Beacons and the Bristol Channel.

If it’s breathtaking sights you’re after, the Preseli Hills could be your dream walking destination.

Other must-see parts of the area include the several burial cairns and earthworks in the Hills that date back to the Iron Age, as well as the many standing stones and forts.

The region is laced with history as well as walking charm, making it a very good option for families who enjoy both a relaxing stroll as well as sampling interesting facts and items that are thought to be from as far back as prehistoric times.

Also, the Golden Road ancient path – which was originally forged as a route for tradesmen when dangerous animals still roamed the hills – is well worth a visit as it is thought that the Carn Menyn tor nearby is the source of the aforementioned Stonehenge material.

On top of the fantastic walking options and history, the Preseli Hills can also be said to be one of the country’s primary hotspots for spotting wildlife – particularly in the winter season.

Birds such as sparrow hawks, buzzards, kestrels and skylarks are regular visitors to the region, meaning that walkers might be advised to take a pair of binoculars with them to the Hills.

The Yorkshire Dales have been a favoured retreat for visitors seeking an idyllic and peaceful walking holiday for many years and the area remains one of Britain’s most prominent destinations for ramblers and holidaymakers alike.

The effects of the global economic downturn has caused many people to reconsider whether they want to head abroad for their summer holidays or not, meaning that national parks such as the Dales and the Peak District are bound to become more popular over the coming months and years.

However, the Yorkshire Dales, with some of the most stunning scenery in the north of England, is suitable for visitors all year round.

The park – which covers a total area of 1,762 sq km – is located in the central Pennines area and covers areas of both north Yorkshire and Cumbria. It was founded in 1954 and offers a wide range of rare wildlife habitats and a heritage and history that is almost unparalleled in Britain, its official website states.

In terms of exact location, the Dales are easily accessible from several major northern cities. They lie just north of Leeds and Bradford and around 80.5 kilometres north-east of Manchester, with Darlington to their east and Kendal to their west.

In terms of events, the Dales offer a rich array of attractions regardless of the weather and the time of year. There really is something for everyone all the time at the Park.

The more active and adrenaline-seeking visitor could opt for the hundreds of kilometres worth of footpaths and bridges that offer unrivalled access to acres of truly unspoilt open land.

Walking is a popular method of taking in these pathways and country roads, but anyone looking to get around a little quicker could opt to take a mountain bike or even take in the trek on horseback.

The park allows visitors the chance to take in and experience many different types of terrain, ranging from flat country roads to narrow, winding footpaths. Meanwhile, visitors who prefer extreme activities, the Dales has some of the country’s most-renowned and popular caving and climbing hotspots hidden within its boundaries.

However, activity-based holidays aren’t for everyone and some members of a travelling party could instead wish to relax and soak up the local atmosphere in one of the many traditional and picturesque Yorkshire villages that surround the park.

These villages and hamlets may be small in terms of size and population, but they more than make up for that by offering a genuine taste of life in the Dales. Galas and agricultural shows regularly take place in such destinations, particularly in the summer months.

Meanwhile, the local pubs, inns and tea shops offer a real glimpse of the way of life in the tranquil surroundings of the Dales. Why not sample some of the finest Yorkshire traditions – excellent ale and tea – in order to help you wind down after an exerting day spent trekking this magnificent part of the country?

The West Midlands county of Shropshire offers an ideal getaway retreat for lovers of the outdoors all year round.

With its rolling hills, picturesque scenery, medieval architecture and a wide range of outdoor walking activities available to ramblers of all ages and abilities, the region is a great option for a weekend or week away at any time of year.

However, during the summer months in particular, Shropshire becomes a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international holidaymakers.

The famous Shrewsbury Flower Show, which is renowned as one of Britain’s finest summer events, takes place in August and attracts visitors from all around the continent.

The traditional exhibition has been running since the mid 19^th century and features one of the most competitive horticultural displays for both professionals and amateurs alike.

However, the show is not just all about flowers as it also offers stands and stalls with some of the region’s best homemade food and produce, as well as gift stalls in the Home & Craft marquee and fun activities for children, meaning that the two-day convention is a real family-friendly affair.

And the Flower Show is not the only reason to visit the town of Shrewsbury. The destination, which sits on the banks of the River Severn, is an ideal location for those looking for some traditional culture and architecture.

The medieval urban area is steeped in history with buildings dating back to the Tudor period. It has many winding and narrow backstreets and is a favourite for lovers of long-established beers and ales with pubs and old inns aplenty in the town centre.

The town’s Campaign for Real Ale beer festival – which takes place in September – is another essential attraction for grown-up visitors.

Arguably Shrewsbury’s most renowned feature is its Town Walls watchtower – which is the last remaining14th-century tower of its once-fortified defensive walls – and is completely intact. The tower offers stunning views across the whole town and beyond on clear days.

Away from Shropshire’s most popular tourist hub, people looking for an opportunity to ramble on their holiday should look no further than the Long Mynd, which is an area of outstanding natural beauty and is situated south of Shrewsbury.

The Long Mynd offers fascinating walking attractions such as nationally-significant archaeology and geology, as well as stunning views across the nearby Welsh border of both the Brecon Beacons and Welsh Hills and also the Malvern Hills.

It offers superb walking, mountain biking and horse riding facilities, as well as the chance to see some of Britain’s rarest and most amazing rural wildlife in the flesh and superb visitor facilities including a traditional Shropshire tea-room and shop.

Meanwhile, close to the Long Mynd in the small town of Church Stretton, which is around ten miles south of Shrewsbury, is the county’s Carding Mill Valley.

The Valley – another official area of outstanding natural beauty – is well-known in walking circles and offers around 5,000 acres of pure, unspoilt heather-covered hills that features the opportunity of rambling across several different terrains.