As Britain’s largest National Park, the Cairngorns has something for everyone.

Whether you’re an expert walker seeking the adrenaline-rush of climbing some of the country’s most challenging peaks, or simply looking for a location to get away from it all in idyllic and tranquil surroundings, the Cairngorns can cater for all holidaying wants and needs for all ages.

The serene region, which is situated in northern Scotland, covers a total area of 3,800 sq km of unspoilt and picturesque British countryside. It is some 40 per cent larger in area than another of the country’s most popular outdoor locations – the Lake District – and is around twice as big as the Trossachs and Loch Lomond.

For those after an active walking holiday, the National Park offers four of the largest five mountains in Scotland, with its highest peak being the 4,296 feet-tall Ben Macdui, which is second only to Ben Nevis in terms of highest mountains in the British Isles.

Meanwhile, there are more than 50 summits above 900 metres tall and 68 per cent of the total land area of the park is over 400 metres above sea level.

Also, novices and experts alike are sure to want to experience the most diverse array of different landforms anywhere in Europe, as the Cairngorns offers land ranging from Ice Age glaciers to granite tors and heavings. The park features its very own arctic wilderness – known at the Montane Zone – which is 600 metres above sea level and is the country’s largest such area.

The Cairngorns is not just an attractive holiday resort, however. Some 16,000 people live in substantially-sized towns, villages and hamlets within the park’s boundaries. However, with just one person per 4.2 sq km, the population density is among the lowest in the country and you could quite easily spend a day in the park without so much as seeing a local.

Major towns within the park include Aviemore, Ballater, Braemar and Kingussie, but it is estimated that tourists visiting the area and partaking in activities such as fishing, shooting and skiing account for around 80 per cent of its economic income.

Perhaps the best way to navigate around the vast expanse is to head off on a ranger-led group tour. This way, visitors will be guided around areas of the huge park by people who know it like the back of their hand and will have the opportunity to learn about the region’s plants, native pine woods and wildlife.

Around 25 per cent of the UK’s threatened bird, animal and plant species – including Golden Eagles, Ospreys, Dotterrills and Crested Tits – as well as being the primary place in the country to spot the Scottish Crossbill.

People eager to stretch their legs and exercise while on holiday, but do not want to go as far as attempting to scale a mountain, may be interested in activities such as mountain biking and canoeing. These sports can be great ways to see areas of the park that are not accessible by foot.

The Lake District has long been one of Britain’s most popular regions for ramblers – and with very good reason.

It offers a wide array of options for walking enthusiasts throughout the year, from the challenge of scaling the likes of Scaffell Peak and Skiddaw to taking a stroll around breathtaking lakes such as Bassenthwaite and Windermere.

The region caters for walkers of all ages and skill, and is also a fantastic option for a family holiday due to the number of festivals and events taking place throughout the grounds of the national park.

For example, June marks the beginning of the summer festival period in the region, with the Appleby Horse Fair kicking things off for a week at the beginning of the month. The Keswick Beer Festival is a traditional favourite for people visiting the Lake District and takes place in the early part of June, along with the Holker Garden Festival.

July is always the Lake District’s busiest period for events as the summer season attracts more visitors to the region than at any other time of the year. Highlights include the Lakeland Rose Show near Kendal in mid-July and the Barrow Walking Festival, which traditionally begins at the start of July. Meanwhile the Cumberland County Show is also a popular option for all ages.

August features events such as the Hawkshead Show at the end of the month and the Ambleside Flower Show, which runs over the weekend in the early stages of August.

One of the region’s most well-known event doesn’t come round until November. The Kendal Mountain Festival is Europe’s largest festival of its type and remains one of the leading social events for outdoor enthusiasts in the UK.

It is like the outdoor version of the Cannes film festival, as more than 50 movies are screened – many for the very first time – as they compete for prizes dished out by a judging panel.

Also, special art and book awards are also given out over the course of the three-day event, which runs in mid-November.  

For the more adventurous and experienced walkers, a crack at the famous Wainwright coast-to-coast route can also be partly completed in the Lake District. Devised by legendary rambler Alfred Wainwright, the walk is the longest unofficial footpath in the north of England as it stretches across the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors.

Although not for the fainthearted – the walk totals an estimated distance of 220 miles – it could be worth the effort, as the Wainwright Society website states that it was named the second-best walk in the world in a survey of experts in 2004.

Wainwright himself suggested that the walk be completed in stages over the course of a two-week break, so if you’re keen to add this accomplishment to your walking CV, a lengthy holiday may be required.

The Lake District is one of the country’s best options for a walking holiday at any time of the year, but it is the summer when it really comes alive.

Wainwright himself suggested that the walk be completed in stages over the course of a two-week holiday, so if you’re keen to add this accomplishment to your walking CV, a lengthy holiday may be required.

The Lake District is one of the country’s best options for a walking holiday at any time of the year, but it is the summer when it really comes alive.

If ever there was a part of the UK which can leave one speechless, it is the majestic mountain Ben Nevis.

The highest peak in the British Isles, it is both a challenge and a wonderful example of natural beauty.

Those enjoying walks at Ben Nevis can make the most of it by exploring it in different ways, each offering a unique slant on this majestic feature of the Scottish Highlands.

Go by gondola

Walking Ben Nevis is a great way to enjoy its ruggedness and beauty but as with all mountains, the top offers the best view.

Ben Nevis walks are challenging at the best of times and those who prefer can enjoy it from Britain’s only mountain gondola.

Visitors can sit back and relax as the gondola lifts them 650m into the air, meandering through mountain trails and offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.

A camera is an absolute must, with many of the sights people will see deserving of being caught on film so the memories can last a lifetime.

The gondolas do not actually transport visitors to the top of Ben Nevis but to the north face of Aonach Mor.

If anything though, this allows those on Ben Nevis walks to witness its majesty even more, as the views of the great mountain are nothing short of outstanding.

Explore on a bike

Ben Nevis is also a popular location for cycling enthusiasts.

Thousands of cyclists of all levels travel to the mountain each year to tackle the various twists and turns it has to offer.

Those on walks at Ben Nevis need not worry however, as the walking routes and cycle paths are separate, meaning walking enthusiasts will not have to dodge speeding cyclists while they amble along.

They could even take to two wheels themselves, as there are numerous paths offering different views of the mountain which can be explored.

Again, taking a camera is recommended, as just about every angle of this marvellous feat of nature is worth capturing on film.

Slip on some skis

Brave walking enthusiasts could also take the chance to do some skiing while there.

Ben Nevis is a popular haunt for snowboard and skiing fans and those who have always wanted to try could take taster lessons in either discipline and experience the mountain another way.

The surrounding area

Set in the shadow of Ben Nevis is Fort William, the capital of Lochaber and one of the highlands’ most buzzing resorts.

After exploring Ben Nevis, visitors can enjoy walks in Fort William and see what the area has to offer.

One notable attraction is the Jacobite Steam train, which has been going for nearly three decades.

Running from Fort William to Mallaig, it is a must-see for those on holiday in the area.

So special are the views and the experience as a whole that Wanderlust magazine named it the Top Railway Journey in the World in 2009.

There is also a number of pubs, restaurants and hotels to enjoy after a long walk in Fort William.

Visitors could take in the Grog and Gruel before settling down to a good night’s rest at the Clan Macduff motel or one of the many other places to stay.

With 680 miles of outstanding scenery, wildlife habitats and a rich cultural heritage, there is plenty to discover on walks in the Yorkshire Dales.

Designated a national park in 1954, the area is one of the most beautiful in the UK and a shining example of the country’s natural beauty.

Lush green valleys were formed as a result of erosion by a glacier and the weathering of limestone, sandstone, shale and grit more than 300 million years ago is responsible for some of the dramatic scenery which can be enjoyed today.

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Limestone country.

Outdoor adventure

The beauty of the Yorkshire Dales is that it is not only a place to see – it is a place to do.

Thousands of visitors flock here every year, from horse riders and outdoor adventure lovers to those who simply enjoy the walking routes which run throughout the countryside.

Whether it is a gentle bike ride, hill climbing or relaxing, the Yorkshire Dales has it all.

Visitors enjoying walks in the Yorkshire Dales can also explore its many limestone caves, which offer wonderful opportunities for photographs and paintings.

One of the highlights is the Ingleborough Cave – part of the Gaping Hill system – that served as an outflow for streams until the main stream abandoned it.

Those on walks in the Yorkshire Dales will be glad it did, as it is now one of the biggest attractions in the UK, with a solid concrete path allowing safe access to the many wonders hidden within.

There is also White Scar cave, the longest show cave in Britain.

A subterranean landscape complete with streams and waterfalls, this is another must see while enjoying Yorkshire Dales walks.

Fabulous flora and fauna

The Yorkshire Dales has one of the richest collections of wildlife in the UK and one of the main reasons people enjoy walks in the Yorkshire Dales so much is the abundance of colour and life which light up the area.

A visit to the Moorland and Moorland Fringe will see merlin and golden plover soar above the endless expanses of purple heather which bring the countryside to life.

Woodland is scarce in the Yorkshire Dales but what is present plays a significant part in the survival of many different species of plant and animal life.

The large conifer plantations in and around Sedbergh, Garsdale and Widdale are home to red squirrels and visitors will find many darting around while enjoying the many walking routes.

A pair of binoculars is a must, as there are numerous species of birds which call the dales their home.

Those exploring walking routes in the Yorkshire Dales will not fail to spot the bright colours of the chaffinch, whose blue and orange plumage are unmistakable.

Skylark, lapwing and curlew are often spotted in the area as well, making the Yorkshire Dales one of the best spots for bird watching anywhere in the country.

The natural beauty is not just in the trees and skies, however, as there is a good chance one will stumble across badgers on walks in the Yorkshire Dales.

Delightful villages

Dotted throughout the Yorkshire Dales are various villages boasting quaint pubs and restaurants, comfortable hotels and beautiful architecture.

Pateley Bridge is one such place, with a whole host of interesting arts and crafts shops which offer all manner of items which would make great presents for someone special.

Here, walking enthusiasts will also find Britain’s oldest sweet shop.

After a long walk in the Yorkshire Dales, a nice relaxing drink and a plate of food at the Crown could be just what the doctor ordered before lacing up one’s walking boots and moving on.

Another village visitors must see is Aysgarth, famous for its three stunning waterfalls which have been popular with photographers and artists for years.

Located in mid-Wensleydale, it is perfect for walkers of all levels, including the Herriot Way Walk which is popular with enthusiasts.

At the end of the walk, a nice glass of bitter and a meal at the George and Dragon will round off a wonderful day out.

With dishes such as roast Nidderdale Chicken Breast with smoked Applewood risotto and escalope of salmon on the menu, visitors will not want to miss it.

With the highest mountain in Wales, the country’s largest natural lake and a wonderful collection of rare birds, it is no wonder people fall in love with Snowdonia.

It is 823 square miles of pure, unadulterated joy, with thousands of visitors descending on the area each year to enjoy its walking routes.

Snowdonia acquired national park status in 1951 and is one of the most glorious examples of the UK’s natural beauty, with its dramatic peaks and jaw-dropping waterfalls making it a vast and varied terrain.

Flora and fauna

While exploring walking routes in Snowdonia, visitors are surrounded by several hues of green, with an abundance of plant life growing all around.

Rising from the Conwy Valley and stretching to Penmachno is the Gwydir Forest.

In this dense expanse of woodland some beautiful flowers can be found, growing beneath the majestic trees which rise high into the sky.

Douglas Fir and Norwegian spruce trees are common in this area, as they are along many of the walking routes in Snowdonia.

In the spring time, swathes of bluebells stretch as far as the eye can see, adding some wonderful colour to the surroundings.

Gwydir Forest is also home to a rich variety of animal life, with grey squirrels, foxes and various birds including robins, merlins and peregrine falcons all calling this their home.

A trip to northern Snowdonia is a must as well, as this is the only place in Britain where one can find the Snowdon Lily, which grows on a few high cliffs.

There are hundreds of forests spread across this vast region, with buzzards and ravens soaring through the sky, squirrels and badgers rustling through the undergrowth and beautiful flowers in bloom, Snowdonia walks promise a very special experience.

Wonderful waterfalls and lovely lakes

There are few places in the UK way where people can lace up their walking boots and see such an array of waterfalls.

One of the most glorious examples is Swallow Falls.

Located near the village of Betws-y-Coed, this stunning series of falls has featured in films, on postcards and in paintings, with nature lovers, art enthusiasts and those enjoying walks in Snowdonia all attracted by its majesty.

Dolgoch Falls is another favourite of those on Snowdonia walks, as the route takes visitors through some of the most luscious countryside in the Tal-y-Llyn valley.

The various falls that cascade down the rocky wooded ravine make this one of the most beautiful sites and a photographer’s dream.

Snowdonia is also home to an extensive collection of lakes

Located at the very heart of the park are Llyn Padarn and Llyn Peris, two lakes separated by a narrow strip of land in the wonderful Llanberis.

Those enjoying walks in Snowdonia should also pay a visit to Lake Bala, the largest body of water in Wales and a wonderful place to sit and have a picnic or paint the wonderful landscape.

Its name in Welsh is Llyn Tegid, which translates to ‘lake of serenity’ and sums it up perfectly.

Mountain top adventures

Snowdonia’s walking routes are vast and allow visitors to take in the beautiful countryside around them.

However, there is another way to enjoy what this fantastic region has to offer – by rail.

The Snowdon Mountain Railway takes people on an adventure high into the hills and mountains and travels through some of the most spectacular greenery to be found anywhere.

Beginning at Llanberis Station, the train moves along the two viaducts crossing Afon Hwch and passes a beautiful waterfall before reaching Hebron.

Here, visitors will see the small ruined chapel and journey through the passing loop.

At the halfway point the steam trains will take on water before heading to Rock Valley, famous for its massive boulders.

The mountains were formed by volcanic forces nearly 450 million years ago and once stood as high as the Himalayas before the elements wore them down to their present size.

Clogwyn Station is the next port of call, where the view of Llanberis pass below is a sight to behold, with one of the world’s most spectacular panoramas at one’s feet.

Finally, the train reaches the summit, where those on board can head to the new visitor centre and enjoy the views of the surrounding area.

With its vast expanses of green fields, majestic mountains and delightful quaint villages, the Peak District has always been a favourite of walking fans and hill climbers.

The Peak District National Park, established in 1951, was Britain’s first national park, giving it an extra special place in the nation’s heart.

Luscious landscapes

Nestled on the border between the northern highlands of Britain and the southern lowland counties, the Peak District boasts some of the most luscious green landscapes to be found anywhere in the country.

With these huge green spaces as far as the eye can see, walking in the Peak District is a particularly popular pastime for many people young and old.

The beauty of the Peak District is that it has walking routes to cater to everybody’s tastes and abilities.

A favourite Peak District walk is through Deepdale.

One of the treasures of the Peak District, it takes visitors through some wonderful limestone dales and provides a real escape from the outside world.

Another must see are the monuments of Baslow Edge and Gardoms Edge, which offer some of the most stunning views of the surrounding area, making it a great sight for walkers, photographers and artists alike.

Natural wonders

Along with walking boots and other gear, visitors must bring a camera with them to capture images of the jaw-dropping scenery they will encounter.

The Dark Peak is a barren and rugged landscape where the appearance changes dramatically with the weather and light conditions and offers powerful beauty.

Within the national park walkers will find The Roaches, the v-shaped gritstone protrusions which jut out of the landscape and add to the area’s dramatic splendour.

The hills and dales are only two of the attractions of the Peak District.

What it has over many other popular walking destinations is the stunning examples of natural beauty which lie underground.

A network of caves and caverns run below its luscious green expanses, with Speedwell Cavern offering a truly amazing experience.

Visitors travel on a boat through the various tunnels of this former lead mine where they will find some stunning sights.

Another feather in the Peak District’s cap is Blue John Cavern.

Blue John Stone is only found amongst the rocks of Treak Cliff Hill in Castleton.

This highly-prized stone is simply wonderful to behold, making this a popular site with walking fans all year round.

Back at sea level, the Heights of Abraham are also a must see, offering wonderful views and great sites to enjoy a picnic.

Vibrant villages

Blue John Cavern is located in the village of Castleton and walking enthusiasts must take the opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of the Peak District.

On three sides this wonderful little village is surrounded by steep hills, with the Mam Tor the most famous of these.

While the natural splendour is a good enough reason to visit, there are various other attractions which people must see.

Ruins of an ancient hilltop fortress and the rebuilt castle originally erected by William Peverill are just two of the famous sites which should be included in any itinerary.

Nestled in a valley bordered by the River Derwent is the stone-built village of Cromford.

Steeped in industrial history, the village is most famous for its association with Sir Richard Arkwright, a leading entrepreneur of the Industrial Revolution.

Particular sites of interest include the canal system, the Cromford and High Peak Railway and Derwent Valley Heritage Trail.

The picturesque market town of Ashbourne is also worth seeing, with lovely cottages, historic buildings and wonderful surrounding countryside making it a pleasant place to spend some time.

Food and drink

While exploring the villages and walking routes in the Peak District, visitors will more than likely build up an appetite, but luckily, the Peak District is rich in the number of pubs and restaurants offering the finest quality food.

The Ladybower Inn in Bamford is one of the most famous pubs.

With a menu boasting warm crab, scallion and goats cheese tart, fresh battered haddock and creamy wild mushroom and rabbit pies, this really is a popular haunt with Peak District walking enthusiasts.

Those enjoying a walk in Ashbourne should drop in to the Dog and Partridge.

Its comfortable surroundings are a great place to enjoy a Greek salad, a selection of Italian meats or a prawn and melon salad.

Walkers enjoying some time in Birch Vale on the High Peak can settle down in the ambient surroundings of the Sycamore Inn and sample delights such as wild mushroom risotto, belly pork and black pudding salad and venison sausages.

Rest and relaxation

With many hotels, guest houses and camp sites, there is no shortage of places to stay.

The best way to explore the terrain is on foot, so many visitors pitch up tents at the camp sites and spend the night with nature.

While this option may be the most exciting, visitors must ensure they have brought all the correct gear with them so they can enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep before lacing up their walking boots and heading out into the wilderness once again.