Vacation Outside the Norm
The United Kingdom is full of popular cities like London, Glasgow, or Edinburgh, but there are many other lesser-known areas that offer a different view of the beautiful island nation. Here, our Philly Airport parking company shares some great places to visit if you’re planning a trip to the U.K.:
Lake District National Park, England
Located in Cumbria, this national park is the second largest in the U.K. As its name suggests, the area is filled with beautiful lakes as well as mountains and hills carved by the natural erosion of glaciers. It’s a great place to hike and climb as well as simply take in the inspirational views. Once you’re done, head to the small village for some shopping and dining.
The Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
For a big dose of natural wonder, head to just outside the town of Bushmills. There, you’ll find a marvel made of more than 40,000 basalt columns, all of which are a result of lava eruptions from around 60 million years ago. Pack a lunch and sit among the columns as you enjoy the views of the North Atlantic Ocean.
Chester, England
About 20 miles south of Liverpool lies the charming city of Chester that was first founded as a Roman fortress in the 1st century A.D. This quaint area along the River Dee is known for its medieval sandstone walls, 19th century revival architecture, and Tudor-style half-timber buildings - all of which are nestled among restaurants, shops, parks, and more.
The Isle of Skye, Scotland
Off the west coast of Scotland lies the archipelago of the Inner Hebrides; the Isle of Skye is the largest and most northernly and boasts landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a painting. With rolling green hills, white sand beaches, and stunning rock formations, there’s plenty to look at along with plenty to do.
Conwy, North Wales
If relaxation is what you’re looking for, you’ll find it in the beautiful harbor town of Conwy. From the stately 13th-century medieval Conwy Castle to the old town walls to the waterfront of Conwy Bay, it’s almost too easy to relax. As our Philly Airport parking company suggests, don’t forget about the delicious food, quaint sweet shops, and hole-in-the-wall pubs.
Stonehenge, Wiltshire, England
If you’re anywhere near Wiltshire, you can’t miss seeing one of most famous and mysterious sites in the world. The ring of stones, each standing around 13 feet high and 6 feet wide, is set within earthworks and is believed to have been constructed in 3000 or 2000 B.C. While no one is quite sure what the monument is, many believe it was a burial ground.
The Scottish Highlands, Scotland
If you’ve ever seen the movie Rob Roy, Braveheart, or Harry Potter, you’ve seen the Scottish Highlands. The rugged area encompasses the northwestern part of the country and boasts a variety of mountain ranges, including Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain. You’ll also find the beautiful Eilean Donan Castle and the famed Loch Ness.
Peak District National Park, England
This 555 square-mile area spans parts of Cheshire, Staffordshire, Derbyshire, and Yorkshire and offers breathtakingly beautiful landscapes as well and tons of wilderness. There’s plenty to explore on bike, horseback, or even foot and when you’re done taking in the views, you can head into town for some delicious food or a brew.
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland’s capital city is unique in that it’s divided into four “quarters.” Stroll through the Cathedral Quarter to get a good dose of culture including great bars, restaurants, and cobblestone streets, or head to the Titanic Quarter to see where the Titanic was built in 1912. Just don’t forget to take in the stunning site of Belfast Castle on the slopes of Cavehill Country Park.
No matter where you go on your trip to the U.K., be sure to park with our Philly Airport parking company. We’ll make your trip even more enjoyable!