21 UK Bucket List Ideas
It’s easy to forget that a wide array of attractive destinations lie just a few miles from your doorstep. Dawdle through a hushed forest, sink your feet into golden sand or ascend a towering mountain in this remarkably unique pocket of the world.
With such a wide variety of diverse destinations within arm’s length, it can be difficult to know where to start. We’ve compiled a list of essential additions to your UK bucket list to help inspire your next trip.
1. Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim
Situated on the Northern Irish coastline, the Giant’s Causeway is a dramatic landscape of jagged cliffs and interlocking basalt columns. For centuries, the Giant’s Causeway has inspired artists, enchanted visitors and spurred mystical mythology.
According to local folklore, the Giant’s Causeway was carved from the coast by mighty giant Finn McCool. However, science informs us that the causeway was created from volcanic eruptions, burning and cooling over 60 million years.
Take a tour of the Giant’s Causeway with one of the knowledgeable tour guides, or climb the Shepherd’s Steps to the cliff-top for spectacular views of the coastline. Visit the award-winning visitor centre and learn about the legendary lore surrounding the area.
Where to stay?
Thinking of camping in Northern Ireland? Our Delamont Country Park Club Site is the perfect place to explore from.
2. Lake Windermere, Cumbria
Stretching over 10 miles long and 219 feet deep, Lake Windermere is England’s largest natural lake. Nestled between fells in the Lake District National Park, Windermere has inspired countless artists, poets and writers for centuries.
Boasting breath-taking views, glistening water and a host of adventurous activities, it’s not difficult to understand why this stretch of water is popular with tourists.
Hop on a bike, climb aboard a boat or strap on your walking boots and explore this spectacular lake in a picturesque part of the Lake District.
Where to stay?
Pitch your tent at our Windermere Club Site, situated just under 8 miles from Bowness-on-Windermere - a tourist hot-spot on the banks of the lake.
3. Stonehenge, Wiltshire
Dating all the way back to c.3000BC, Stonehenge offers the opportunity to experience life vicariously through our Neolithic ancestors.
Stonehenge stood proudly atop a hill in rural Wiltshire and has sparked debates among historians and scientists as to how and why the stones were erected.
Take a trip to this idyllic area of South West England and explore the fascinating folklore surrounding Stonehenge. Don’t forget to pay a visit to nearby Avebury Henge, the largest prehistoric stone circle in the world.
Where to stay?
Considering a trip to Stonehenge? Stay nearby at either our Salisbury Club Site or Devizes Club Site.
4. Climb Mount Snowdon, Gwynedd
Towering above the soaring peaks and glistening lakes of the Snowdonia National Park, Mount Snowdon is the biggest mountain in England and Wales.
Ascend to the summit of Snowdon and be rewarded with some of Britain’s most spectacular, panoramic views.
Climbing Snowdon is an incredibly challenging feat - consider riding the Snowdon Mountain Railway if the task feels too daunting.
The Snowdonia National Park is home to a multitude of other activities including walking trails, caverns and boat trips.
Where to stay?
Our Bala Club Site is the perfect base from which to explore Wales’ first and largest national park. Our Llanystumdwy Club Site is a coastal campsite on the edge of Snowdonia.
5. Cheddar Gorge, Somerset
Plunging almost 400ft deep and stretching over 3 miles long, Cheddar Gorge is England’s largest gorge and a fascinating day out.
Situated in Somerset’s rolling Mendip Hills, the gorge is one of Britain’s most remarkable natural wonders.Cheddar Gorge
Take a trip to Bough’s Cave, where in 1903, Britain’s oldest complete human skeleton was discovered. Climb 274 steps to the Lookout Tower for spectacular views across Cheddar Gorge and the Mendip Hills.
Keep an eye out for the bustling wildlife that inhabits the gorge, including herds of feral goats and sheep.
Where to stay?
Thinking of taking a trip to Cheddar Gorge? Our Cheddar Mendip Hills Club Site is perfectly located to explore the gorge and surrounding Somerset area.
6. See the Northern Lights from the Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands
Standing beneath a starry sky and gazing up at the Northern Lights is usually a staple of most people’s bucket lists.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to travel to Scandinavia to experience the natural wonder of Aurora Borealis.
The Isle of Skye, the largest island in the Inner Hebrides, offers a fantastic opportunity to see the Northern Lights during the winter months.
Stand amidst wild heather moorland and marvel at the iridescent flashes of green swirling above you.
Where to stay?
Thinking of camping beneath the Northern Lights? Our Skye Club Site is situated in a beautiful Highland setting.
7. Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland
Stretching from coast to coast, west to east for 73 miles across Northern Britain, Hadrian’s Wall is an iconic landmark and an important part of our national history.
In 122AD, Roman emperor Hadrian began construction on the wall in a bid to keep the Barbarians out of his empire. The wall was finished less than six months later.
Take a walk alongside the wall and immerse yourself in a combination of fascinating Roman history and breath-taking landscapes near the Anglo-Scottish border.
Take a trip to one of the many impressive locations along the wall, including the 30 mile long Birdoswald Trail, boasting the longest continuous stretch of wall, a fort and a priory.
Where to stay?
Explore the length of this wonderful wall when staying at either our Haltwhistle Club Site or our Bellingham Club Site.
8. Beachy Head, East Sussex
Standing proudly on the East Sussex coastline, Beachy Head is a grass-topped chalk cliff and one of Britain’s most iconic landscapes.
Take a walk over Britain’s highest chalk sea cliff, rising 531ft above sea level, and offering panoramic views of the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park and the glistening waves of the English Channel.
Where to stay?
Thinking of spending a few days in East Sussex? Pitch your tent at our Normans Bay Club Site, located a few miles along the coast from Beachy Head.
9. Tintagel Castle, Cornwall
Perched on the edge of a dramatic Cornish cliff, Tintagel Castle is a medieval fortress steeped in folklore. Reputedly the location of King Arthur’s elusive Camelot, Tintagel Castle makes for a theatrical landscape on the Cornish coast.
Wander around the ancient fortress and immerse yourself in fascinating history, mystical mythology and spectacular scenery.
Where to stay?
Take a few days to explore Cornwall and Tintagel Castle when staying at our beautiful Bude Club Site.
10. Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, London
One of London’s oldest and most recognisable traditions, the Changing of the Guard is a traditional ceremony that takes place outside Buckingham Palace. Occurring on various days during the week, this display sees the old guarding exchanging duty with new.
Make your way to the palace early to attain a good view and watch this royal spectacle that dates back to the reign of 17th century monarch, Charles II. Watch as soldiers march in unison, followed by a regimental band playing a selection of regal music.
Where to stay?
Do you want to explore the city during the day but camp in the countryside at night? Our Theobalds Park Club Site and Walton on Thames Club Site are perfectly located on the outskirts of London, with simple transport to and from the city.
11. Windsor Castle, Berkshire
The world’s largest and oldest occupied castle, Windsor Castle is one of Britain’s most iconic historical landmarks. Founded in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, the castle has homed around 40 monarchs including Queen Elizabeth II.
Explore the lavish state rooms and marvel at the Classical architecture, extravagant décor and fascinating royal history. Let the expertly-informed tour guides take you on a tour through the castle’s 1000 year history.
Where to stay?
Thinking of staying near Windsor Castle? Our Chertsey Club Site is a short distance from the royal residence.
12. Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands
Scotland’s most famous loch, Loch Ness, is steeped in mythological folklore and legend. Reputedly the home of the elusive Loch Ness Monster, this loch is the Highlands’ most visited tourist attraction.
Wander around this serene stretch of lake, taking in the spectacular views of the glistening water and snowy peaks. Explore the ruined 13th century fortress, Urquhart Castle, and learn about the history of the Loch Ness Monster at the Visitor Centre and Exhibition.
Where to stay?
Pitch your tent on the shores of Loch Ness and keep an eye out for a glimpse of the elusive monster at our Loch Ness Shores Club Site.
13. The Roman Baths, Somerset
First used by Roman soldiers around 60AD, the Roman Baths in Somerset are a complex of baths originally built for public bathing. Situated in the heart of the historical city of Bath, the Roman Baths are incredibly well-preserved and draw tourists from all over the world.
Embark on a tour led by expert tour guides around the Roman Baths and through centuries of fascinating Roman history.
Immerse yourself in Roman culture and envisage the lives led by locals nearly 2000 years ago. Don’t forget to taste the natural spa water at the end of your visit.
Where to stay?
Thinking of taking a trip to beautiful Bath? Our Devizes Club Site is a short distance outside of the city and our Cheddar Mendip Heights Club Site is a perfect base from which to explore Somerset.
14. Titanic Belfast, Northern Ireland
In 1909, construction of the world’s largest ship had begun in the Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast. Following three years of construction, the RMS Titanic set sail for New York and eventually sank in arguably the most famous marine disaster of all time.
The Titanic Belfast Experience takes you on a tour through the construction of how the Titanic was built and the impact it had on the city of Belfast. Explore the shipyard and walk the decks as the interactive galleries bring the Titanic to life.
Where to stay?
Stay at our Delamont Country Park Club Site and explore the underappreciated beauty and fascinating history of Northern Ireland.
15. Eden Project, Cornwall
The most famous gardens in Cornwall and arguably Great Britain, the Eden Project is an unforgettably informative day out. Opened in 2001, the Eden Project has been dubbed the Eighth Wonder of the World.
Wander around the world’s largest indoor rainforest, meander through 20 acres of gardens and discover over 3,000 diverse varieties of plant.
Where to stay?
Looking for somewhere to stay near the Eden Project? Our Cornish campsites Veryan Club Site and Tregurrian Club Sites are perfectly located.
16. The Broads, Norfolk
Covering over 300 square miles of East Anglian countryside, the Broads are an intricate network of rivers and lakes in Norfolk.
Since the 19th century, the Broads have been a popular destination for boating holidays. Climb aboard a boat, hop on a bike or put on your walking boots and navigate the meandering rivers and glimmering lakes in the Norfolk Broads. Pack a lunch and eat it by the riverside, watching boats float past.
Where to stay?
Our Norwich Club Site is the perfect place to explore Norfolk and the Broads. If you’d also like to explore Suffolk, our Kessingland Club Site is located close to the East-Anglian county border.
17. Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol
Spanning the Avon Gorge and River Avon, Bristol’s Clifton Suspension Bridge is an iconic piece of British engineering.
Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and opened in 1864, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is a symbol of the city of Bristol and British architecture.
Ascend the Clifton Suspension Bridge Viewpoint and take advantage of the perfect photographic opportunity. Pack a picnic and eat whilst gazing at the breath-taking views across the gorge.
Where to stay?
Our Cheddar Mendip Heights Club Site is a short distance outside Bristol and is also situated near some of the best attractions in the South West.
18. Chatsworth House, Derbyshire
One of England’s most recognisable landmarks, Chatsworth House is famous for its breath-taking landscapes and diverse collection of art. Nestled in the heart of the Peak District National Park, Chatsworth House is a 16th century stately home.
Wander in and out of Chatsworth House’s lavish rooms and gaze at the extravagant décor and extensive art collection. Explore the 1000 acre garden designed by world-renowned landscape designer Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.
Where to stay?
Looking to stay near Chatsworth House? Our Bakewell Club Site is less than 10 miles down the road, in the rolling hills of the Peak District National Park.
19. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Wales
Officially designated national park status in 1952, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is 243 square miles of golden beaches, idyllic villages, rugged cliffs and untamed moorland.
Sink your feet into golden sand, cycle beside the crashing waves and take a boat out on the glistening water. Bustle your way through countless villages, each one more picturesque than the last.
Where to stay?
Stay at our St. David’s Club Site and explore the entirety of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
20. River Cam, Cambridge
Approximately 69 miles long, the picturesque River Cam flows through the counties of Essex, Suffolk and through the heart of Cambridge in Cambridgeshire.
Punting on the River Cam is an authentic way to see famous Cambridge landmarks, such as King’s College Chapel, The Wren Library and the Bridge of Sighs.
Where to stay?
Balance the hustle and bustle of busy city life at our tranquil Cambridge Club Site, ideally located in the rural countryside but still nearby Cambridge city centre.
21. Jurassic Coast, Dorset
For all those adventure-seekers out there looking for great hiking trails with stunning views, we highly recommend visiting the Jurassic Coast. Explore the rugged coastal, hike over hills and soak in beach views on these trails:
Where to stay?
We have a number of great campsites that are perfectly situated for exploring the spectacular Jurassic Coast, including our Charmouth Club Site.
If you’re struggling to decide which area of the UK to visit first, read our full list of holiday ideas. Great Britain and Northern Ireland is teeming with fascinating landmarks and with over 100 Club Sites, you’re guaranteed to find one of our sites near your desired destination.