5 Incredible Adventures in the British Isles
As travel restrictions gradually begin to ease, we’re all fervently plotting our post-covid adventures. And, if we have learned anything in the past 12 months, it’s that some of the best adventures can be found just outside our front door. So while we wait for the world to continue opening up, we’ve asked our Ambassadors to share their favourite British adventures...
1. A sunrise summit in Snowdonia
Recommended by Jack Williams (@jackwilliams.adventurer)
“While it may not have the same grandeur of the Himalayas, Snowdonia is perfect for micro-adventures. You can climb, scramble, trek, swim, mountain bike and SUP all in one day! One of the best adventures to be had is hiking in the Carneddau. This incredible mountain range not only offers views across most of Snowdonia but is also a great way to leave the crowds behind as very few tend to wander into this imposing collection of peaks. I'd recommend setting the alarm early and heading up to the summit of Y Garn in the Glyderau where you will experience one of the most incredible sunrise views in the UK! Once you're done with your adventure, there's nowhere better than Moel Siabod Cafe in Capel Curig for winding down. This cafe is a hotspot for satisfied hikers sharing stories of the day's adventures!”
2. Scaling the Causeway Coast
Recommended by Neruja Srikantharajah (@so_little_a_time)
“A hiker's heaven, Northern Ireland is full of untouched beauty. Like the rest of the UK, the summer months of July and August are your best bet for sunshine but the country remains beautiful all year round. My favourite spot, the Causeway Coast, is full of adventures to be had, whether it’s riding a wave at Benone Strand, cruising your kayak down the River Roe, or coasteering around the Giant’s Causeway. Hikers can tackle the stunning Causeway Coast Way, whilst climbers can trad climb at the renowned Fairhead Crag or boulder at the picturesque Murlough Bay - whilst the country may appear small, it’s definitely one packed full of adventure!”
3. Cold Water Surfing in Scotland
Recommended by Rhys Smith (@rhyssmth)
“The North West of Scotland has some of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen. Remote white-sand bays, clear blue water and every kind of wave you could want. The water is only a couple of degrees above freezing, so my biggest tip is to make sure you have the proper gear out there. Waking up on the beach to an empty line up is the best feeling there is and there are waves all year round, just keep an eye on the charts as the forecast can change pretty fast. There are some great self-catering places near Sandwood Bay to stay, and the craft village in Durness has some incredible local artists, cafes and sustainable business owners. The beaches on the west coast are spotless, and there’s ongoing research done by local groups on the quantity of shoreline plastic waste - which they then make into sustainable products!”
4. Kitesurfing in the Isle of Wight
Recommended by Tom Court (@courtintheact)
"I have kitesurfed all around the world, but nowhere is better than the Isle of Wight in my opinion - if you can brave the cold! My favourite place to be is Brook Bay, which is not for the faint-hearted, but once you get out on the water, the open reefs and big waves will keep you bussed long after the session! The island is an advanced playground so it’s advisable to come with some experience but Wight Waters Watersports centre in Sandown or Wind Stalker in Seaview both have excellent facilities to learn! For accommodation, I would look at Airbnb as there are some amazing countryside spots to stay. Quite simply, the IOW ticks every box for me and the fact that it’s only accessible by ferry means the crowds never get too large either!”
5. Get Lost in the Lake District
Recommended by Charlotte Smith (@charlottegetsaround)
“While I love travelling abroad as much as the next person, there is something magical about the Lakes. They have this unique sense of calm with an undertone of adventure that I have yet to experience anywhere else. To avoid the crowds, arrive early, get up high and lose yourself in the breathtakingly beautiful landscape. What I love most is that you can feel miles from anywhere and anyone, but still make it back to the pub for dinner! I guess there is a reason so many poets and authors have found their way to these fells looking for inspiration. While Buttermere is my favourite place to spend the day, no long weekend in the Lakes would be complete without watching the sunset over Derwent Water. Sitting on the east shore, you can watch the sky fade into beautiful pinks and purples behind Cat Bells and marvel at how high you climbed during the day...”
Having been so limited in our adventuring up until now, the motivation and desire for it has never been stronger. And, as we’ve been saying continually throughout this past year we know our best adventures are yet to come – where will your adventures take you this summer?
