16 Locales in the United Kingdom That Are Calling Your Name
The Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Abereiddy Beach consists of pebbles and exceptionally dark sand made up of pounded grey slate — it’s this slate that provides the intense deep blue color of the waters in the Blue Lagoon that sits just north of the beach. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a little quiet contemplation and fresh air, or perhaps even a swim on a warm summer day.
In fact, jumping into the brilliantly hued lagoon is what most people come here for, hurling themselves off the blackened walls of the old quarry and into the refreshing, clear, deep water.
If you’re in the mood for a walk, the lagoon can be reached via a four-mile circular route that begins at the south side of Porthgain Harbour, exploring some of the region’s finest coastal scenery as well as its industrial past. To reach the coastal path, walk just below the brick hoppers on the south side of the harbor and climb the steps next to a white building.
After following the sharp left-hand bend at the corner of a field, the tower above Abereiddy Beach will come into view as the path continues along a section of dramatic, high cliffs. Follow it on across the open grassland to the beach, where you’ll continue to enjoy more spectacular views and the Blue Lagoon.
Bath, England
One of the must-see places in England, Bath is one of its most picturesque cities, named for the natural hot springs that were used as ancient Roman baths some 2,000 years ago. Today it’s the only place in the entire United Kingdom where you can soak in naturally warm, mineral-rich spa waters just like the Romans during their time.
The Georgian city is jam-packed with magnificent architecture, award-winning eateries, romantic B&Bs, luxurious hotels and rooftop spas that provide gorgeous views over the cityscape. And the best part may be that it’s one of the most budget-friendly destinations in the UK.
In addition to soaking, you can take a self-guided tour of the baths that still bubble with the same water from ancient times and check out multiple museums, including the Jane Austen Centre — a shrine to Bath’s most famous resident — and the Bath Aqua Theatre of Glass.
Planning a Southern Oregon road trip? These kids-friendly attractions will give you plenty of fun-filled experiences in between time on the road.
The Cotswolds, England
One of the prettiest regions in Europe, The Cotswolds are made up of a vast expanse of emerald hills and ancient villages that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. Located in West-Central and Southwestern England, this is one of the largest of the nearly 40 areas of “Outstanding Natural Beauty” in Wales and England.
The region is dotted with storybook towns and countless sheep. The little villages of Stanton, Snowshill and Stanway are often crowd-free, as most visitors head to more famous destinations like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold.
While it’s beautiful in every season, the fall brings fantastic foliage for leaf-peeping. In winter, it’s wonderfully uncrowded, and finds visitors enjoying breaks in the pubs, cozying up to the warmth of a fire.
