National Parks: Where To Go and How To Visit Them
National Parks. Areas of breathtaking landscapes, each boasting as many outstanding reasons to visit as the last. But with so many National Parks to choose from, which should you explore first?
In celebration of #NationalParksWeek, we asked you to share your photos of your favourite National Parks with us. We’ve selected our favourite submissions below, featuring expert advice, packing tips and secret spots written by our wonderful winners themselves.
So if you’re wondering which National Park to tick off your list first, have a read of our favourite entries and be inspired. We hope you’ll be itching to begin your next adventure immediately!
Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland National Park
submitted by Sandy Uy
Why did you choose Hadrian’s Wall?
I was on holiday in Northumberland for about a week. I have always been fascinated with great views so much more a very rich history behind it. There’s no way I could have missed the Hadrian’s wall, far from it! I see it as just as historically and architecturally of immensely important as the great wall of china!
I must say I feel humbled and lucky enough to have experienced Hadrian’s Wall. I felt that with so much joy in my heart, I thought a memorable capture at least would be my greatest homage to this stunningly beautiful piece of history and hoping I did justice to what I have come up with. I highly recommend Hadrians Wall!
Secret Spots to Explore
I did not plan to walk through end to end of the wall, it was more of a curiosity strolling, I spent more time in the ruined Roman fort called Housesteads and along the way I came across of what you actually see in the photo. Walking through it, my thoughts were with the souls who built this enormously long and fortress. The magnificent views that can be seen were a pleasurable treat such as the farming barn with quite a few herd of sheep, cows, the wild moss overgrowing on some parts of the walls, the ups and downs of the wall as it accordingly respect the land it stood on, the withered walls and steps, the mini lake not far from where the photo was taken and most of all the mist I have to go through in some parts of the wall and many more to mention!
Northumberland National Park Top Tips
Tips to get the most out of the great walk would probably be: wear a good well fitted walking shoes or boots for ease and comfort and safety. Secondly, arrive early so there’s a luxury of time to stop and enjoy the great views. Apart from the Headsteads, there’s another Roman fort that is called Vindolanda that is also great to explore.
What to pack for a visit to Hadrian’s Wall
Pack some lunch, a thermos for a nice cup of tea enjoying the break with a wonderful view! Always bring a camera and an extra battery pack for capturing stunning photos.
Sandy Uy, Merseyside
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
submitted by Sara Louise
What brought you to Torres del Paine National Park?
Cycling from Ushuaia north westwards seeing the mountains getting closer, meant we really had to cycle into Torres del Paine National Park.
Arriving via the secluded south entrance we were faced with this awesome view and a memorable photo opportunity.
Best Torres del Paine Hiking Trails
We chose two walks, to the Grey Glacier braving a choppy lake to the trailhead, seeing icebergs the size of a house was incredible. The hike up to the Torres spires and its glacial lake was a dream come true.
What were your packing essentials?
Windproof clothing is essential, warm clothes at night and a camera.
Sara Louise, Taunton
lyn Padarn, Snowdonia National Park
submitted by Karen Parker
Why Snowdonia?
lyn Padarn is a glacially formed lake & is one of the largest natural lakes in wales. I was camping opposite this lake in Llanberis which is also the start of the snowdon track up snowdon. Llyn padarn is great for kayaking and wild swimming (bring a wet suit) with amazing scenery that goes on for miles as well as great walks on well made paths around the lake great for a family picnic on many tables provided.
Snowdonia Top Tips
The views looking down the lake from the Pen y Pass (the high altitude road through Llanberis) provide some amazing views and sunsets across the lake and also the start of two of my favourite walks up Snowdon the Pyg Track & Miners track (please don’t walk up in flip flops!).
Best places to stay during your visit to Snowdonia
When visiting Snowdonia there are many towns and villages to stay Betws y Coed being the most popular and only a 20 min drive away. My advice is to come prepared I have never visited when it hasn’t rained! But that doesn’t spoil any activity you wish to do.
For something spectacular visit Cym Idwal & the Devils Kitchen again only 20 mins away and one of my favourite walks that bring me back to Snowdonia twice a year.
Snowdonia Packing Tips
Bring insect repellent, those midges like to come out and play.
Karen Parker, Stevenage
View all National Park submissions here. Thank you to everybody who entered!
Have you visited a National Park recently? We’d love to hear about it – tag us on Twitter @CraghoppersUK or Instagram @CraghoppersOfficial and use #DiscoverYourWorld. Alternatively, send your photos to us on Facebook.