We're so lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world, and although the UK might not offer the best weather all year round, there are so many special spots here in Britain that are well worth a visit.
There are 46 areas of natural beauty (or AONB's) here in the UK covering just under 1/5th of the UK. These very special areas are safeguarded for all our enjoyment and are on par with the National Parks.
So what are you waiting for? Wrap up warm, grab your walking bootsand a rain coat (just in case) and start exploring all the wonders right here on our doorstep.
Surrey Hills
The Surrey Hills was one of the first areas to be given an AONB stamp of approval in 1958. With hills and valleys, woodland, farming plus picturesque villages and market towns, the Surrey landscape is varies and diverse.
With plenty of walking routes and things to do and see, a little break in the Surrey Hills makes for the perfect countryside break or day out in the great outdoors.
Find out more and play your day at surreyhills.org
East Devon
From walking to running, cycling and dog walking, there are plenty of places to explore in East Devon to help you get closer to nature.
Within East Devon, you'll find adorable villages and towns, walking trails, historic buildings and tranquil nature reserves which are a haven for wildlife.
Find out more and play your day at eastdevonaonb.org.uk
Malvern Hills
With forts and castles to hills and ancient woodland, you've probably heard of the pure spring water that flows though the Malvern Hills, but this stunning AONB offers so much more.
There are loads of walking and cycling routes to do, no matter what your ability, as well as small cafes to get a refreshment while you're exploring.
Find out more and play your day at malvernhillsaonb.org.uk
Cotswolds
If you've ever had the pleasure of visiting the Cotswolds, you'll know why it's considered so beautiful. From cosy country pubs to walks around farmland and some of the best spas in the UK, the Cotswold's is the perfect place for a quiet little break in the UK.
The Cotswolds covers a huge area – almost 800 square miles – and runs through five counties (Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire).
Find out more and play your day at cotswolds.com
Isles of Scilly
Can you believe this photo was taken just off the coast of mainland UK in the picturesque Isle's of Scilly? With white sandy beaches and blue seas, it feels like a real holiday destination.
You can get there by plane or by ferry and there are five different islands to choose from; St Mary's, Tresco, St Martin's, Bryher and St Agnes.
Find out more and play your trip at islesofscilly-travel.co.uk
North Pennines
The Pennines are perhaps one of the most peaceful areas in the UK. With stunning waterfalls and breathtaking views, the North Pennines is perfect for the more experienced walker looking for more of a challenge in a picture perfect setting.
Not only is the landscape amazing, the North Pennines is full of wildlife too, from Red Squirrels to otters and rare species of birds.
Find out more and play your trip at northpennines.org.uk
Antrim close and glens
Designated as an AONB in 1988, Northern Ireland's Antrim close and glens. This area covers Rathlin Island, the Glens of Antrim and the coastal area between Larne and Ballycastle.
There's plenty to see and do too, from exploring on foot or by car as well as delicious fish restaurants for foodies!
Find out more and play your trip at antrimcoastandglensaonb.ccght.org
Norfolk coast
If you want to be beside the seaside, head to the picturesque Norfolk Coast. With cliffs, beaches, dunes and marshes to be admired plus plenty of historic parks and houses, there's so much to do in this part of the world.
Find out more and play your trip at norfolkcoastaonb.org.uk
The Northumberland coast
Head up north for the ultimate country escape at the glorious Northumberland coast. There's so much to do here, from star gazing to wildlife watching, water sports and walking, it's perfect for the whole family.
The Northumberland Coast was designated as an AONB in 1958, covering the area of coastline between Berwick-upon-Tweed and the Coquet Estuary.
Find out more and play your trip at northumberlandcoastaonb.org
The Chilterns
The Chilterns stretches from the River Thames in southern Oxfordshire up through Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire to Hitchin in Hertfordshire.
Its rich farmland and woodland as well as the quaint villages attract tourists year round and there are plenty of walking and cycling routes to explore while you're here.
Find out more and play your trip at chilternsaonb.org
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