The Earth is glittered with goldmines of unspoilt beauty, fascinating history and delicate habitats. Although we may be familiar with the seven wonders of the world, they’re pretty far away from Old Blighty. But you don’t have to travel overseas to be stunned, wowed and inspired, as the UK is home to some unforgettable wonders, landmarks and landscapes.
Let us take you on a tour through some of the amazing wonders of Great Britain — focussing, of course, on our beloved England and Wales.
Stonehenge, Wiltshire
Where better to start than with world-famous prehistoric monument, Stonehenge? With tonnes of stone towering 13 feet high across Salisbury Plain, this epic stone circle has stumped historians and archaeologists alike, leaving them with many questions. Why is it there? How were the gigantic stones transported? Where did the stones come from?
This must-see landmark is teaming with intriguing conspiracies relating to its origin. Some astronomers claim the site to be an observatory which determined the time of year, however others believe it was used as a burial site. But as this Stone Age miracle was built over 4,000 years ago, it’s likely this will always be one of the ancient world’s best kept secrets.
YHA Cholderton Stonehenge is perfectly located for visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it’s just 10 minutes down the road.
Malham Cove, North Yorkshire
This enormous curving amphitheatre has stunned visitors for centuries. Standing steep at 260 feet high, this white limestone cliff is a view not to be missed. Once a spectacular prehistoric waterfall, the cove has been eroded backwards by water and ice over millions of years.
Climb up the stone stairs to the top of the rock to find a large area of deeply eroded limestone pavement — an intricate pattern rarely seen in England. And while you’re up there, marvel at the unforgettable view across the Yorkshire Dales. You can see for miles across the rugged Malhamdale countryside. You might even be lucky enough to spot the majestic falcons which often nest on ledges in the cliff face.
Nestled in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales village just a short walk away is YHA Malham.
Winnats Pass, Derbyshire
This site takes the crown when it comes to prehistoric history. With evidence of fossilised sea creatures up to a staggering 350 million years old, this valley is believed to have once been under a tropical sea. Now a monumental limestone gorge due to melting glaciers, this Site of Special Scientific Interest is a popular spot for cyclists and expert walkers due to its challenging gradient and breath-taking beauty.
Winnats derives from the term ‘windy gates’ as wild gusts are often channelled at high speeds through the pass. But don’t let the wind put you off. Because the views are totally worth it. Get wrapped up and enjoy a picnic on the pass while taking in the spectacular scenery.
Drive a short 20 minutes down the road to find YHA Castletown Losehill Hall.
Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland
Walk in the shoes of Roman a soldier with this iconic stretch of stones. Spanning 73 miles, the original structure stretched from the River Tyne and the North Sea all the way west to the Irish Sea. This epic landmark was built over 1,800 years ago to guard the wild north-west frontier of the Roman Empire. Today, twinkly-eyed tourists can explore the remains of the fantastic forts and tremendous towers, turrets and towns that once kept watch over the wall.
Slicing through Northumberland, Tyne and Wear and Cumbria, this stone snake slithers through some of the country’s most staggering landscapes. History buffs can investigate ancient artefacts, while walking enthusiasts can uncover sections of the wall on impressive hiking routes. The wall is home to over 20 captivating sites, including Housesteads Roman Fort, Chesters Roman Fort and Birdoswald Roman Fort.
YHA The Sill at Hadrian’s Wall is the perfect base for exploring this World Heritage Site.
The Green Bridge of Wales, Pembrokeshire
When we think of limestone arches, Dorset’s Durdle Door always steals the crown. Albeit impressive, this grand arch has met its match with the jaw-dropping Green Bridge of Wales. Forming a beautiful frame for the Pembrokeshire coast, this 24-metre-high spectacle is formed of carboniferous limestone which is over 350 million years old. Its wonderfully unique shape is the consequence of millions of years erosion by wind and sea.
This brilliant bend of rock and its surrounding area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest thanks to its rich geological and fossil heritage. It’s no surprise the sublime spot is popular with climbers, although only certain times of the year to protect the area’s nesting seabirds. Although it is a sad fate for coastal arches, which are destined to collapse into the sea at some point. This could take thousands of years or happen tomorrow. Best take a trip there soon just in case.
Travel 30 minutes down the road to find YHA Manorbier.
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Photo credit: MindestensM / mountaintreks / Ali / Colin Ward / adrianpluskota / Pawel Pajor / Adobe Stock
