Our National Parks really are our national treasures. Combine lavish landscapes, pretty panoramic views, wondrous wildlife, and hey presto — you’ve got an unbeatable recipe for a magical staycation.
Come rain or shine, National Parks offer the ultimate adventure for all walks of life. In the summer, these precious pockets of untouched beauty are perfect for a full day of heavenly hiking. During more drizzly months, thrill-seekers can grab their raincoats and explore these majestic areas on foot before refuelling at a cosy local pub.
And the icing on the cake is that many of these seriously stunning National Parks across England and Wales are right on the doorstep of our hostels.
South Downs National Park
Beautiful butterflies, regal robins and wild woodlands — you’ll find it all here in the splendid South Downs National Park.
The lush green wave of hills is surrounded by enchanting forests, lowland pastures and a vibrant variety of glistening rivers. Described as Europe’s ‘rainforest in miniature’ the park’s famous grass chalkland is also dotted with Iron Age hillforts, grassy ramparts and Bronze Age barrows. It’s steeped in history.
Fancy a bit of bubbly? Wine-lovers have been known to raise a glass to the glorious grapes at one of the 51 sun-soaked vineyards within the park, crafted by award-winning producers.
An area of careful conservation, the park’s lowland heaths are a precious haven for all 12 of Britain’s native reptile and amphibian species. Marvel at the sea of pinks and purples while spotting some of the country’s most weird and wonderful creatures.
Bed down at YHA South Downs, a Sussex farmhouse that dates back to 1300s and is nestled on the South Downs Way. It’s just 25 minutes from Brighton but set with the National Park.
If you’re feeling up to an active break, we have plenty of self-guided maps for you to download. The routes range from easy to severe, depending on your ability and what you feel capable of tackling on the day.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Seek out a new voyage with this unaltered beauty of the Earth spanning 240 spectacular miles across the Welsh coast. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is one of stunning scenery, sleek sands and special species.
The crinkled coastline is a top spot for beach-lovers, with its jagged cliffs, sweeping shores, secret coves and radiant rock pools. Here land, sea and sky meet in one fantastic fusion which is a perfect paradise for walkers, surfers, kayakers and sailors.
Feel your heart skip a beat when watching the butterflies glide through the honeysuckle vines in summer while spotting crickets and ladybirds. Blow away the cobwebs in autumn and winter with an invigorating cliff walk, rewarded by a pint in a snug nearby pub. Wildlife-watchers will be in their element with puffin-spotting on the nearby islands or be lucky enough to spot a pod of frolicking dolphins.
YHA Broad Haven is a perfect location, perched on the cliffs and overlooking the magnificent Pembrokeshire coastline. Or why not experience the magic of beautiful bays, beaches and hills at YHA St Davids. Check out our other hostels located in and around the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
Both of these fantastic hostels have plenty of walking opportunities that allow you to soak up some truly breathtaking views whilst on your travels.
YHA Broad Haven moderate route
Northumberland National Park
Welcome to England’s northernmost National Park. Here, at Northumberland National Park, you’ll find some of the country’s cleanest rivers, clearest air and darkest skies.
Come midnight, this amazing area is every astronomer’s dream, with the most pristine dark skies in England. On a clear night, you can see the far reaches of the Universe with the naked eye. Marvel at the Milky Way and even the astonishing Andromeda Galaxy.
Connect with nature when hiking along Hadrian’s Wall and discover monumental waterfalls, remarkable wildlife and epic landmarks. There’s plenty of walks to suit everyone, from gentle trials for first-time trekkers to rigorous routes for hardened hikers.
Make your trip away one to remember by stopping by YHA The Sill at Hadrian’s Wall which is located in the beautiful countryside of the Northumberland National Park and the ideal base to star gaze. Or explore the delights of Northumberland from quirky YHA Wooler that sits just on the edge of the park.
We have some fantastic routes heading out from the hostel that offer fantastic views the Northumberland landscape has to offer.
YHA The Sill at Hadrian’s Wall moderate route 1
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Photo credit: gfdunt / Phil / Paul / Adobe Stock
