Top locations to experience nature with your child

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There’s nothing better than getting outside and enjoying your surroundings with your child. But sometimes, the back garden or the local park can get a bit boring, or you’ve exhausted all the possible activities at these places. Sound familiar? Then we have the solution for you!  

Whether you’ve been inspired to explore nature by your local community, or your child’s nursery or school, such as the Kiddi Caru gardening blogs and activities, then you may just want to venture further afield to see the glorious natural sights that the rest of the UK has to offer. 

If that’s the case, then let us guide you through some of the best locations in the UK, where you can fully experience nature at its finest, with your family. 

1. Cornwall

As a county right on the British coast, there are plenty of breath-taking beaches that you can go to as a family and explore the wonders of sea and sand — perfect to both enjoy nature and take time to relax. 

But the real joy of this location is that you can experience the diverse range of plants from around the globe, in the magnificent biomes of the Eden Project. It is the largest rainforest in captivity in the world, and plays host to a variety of beautiful plants, exhibitions and contemporary gardens. Why not make things more exciting by creating a checklist of things for your little one to spot, such as the bananas or waterfall in the Rainforest Biome. The aim of the Eden Project is to connect us with each other and the living world, so what better location to explore nature with your family. 

2. Dorset 

Another coastal location, Dorset is the perfect place for outdoor explorers, and of course, is home to the amazing Jurassic Coast, an English Natural World Heritage Site. 

Spanning from Exmouth in Devon, all the way to Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage in Dorset, you’ll be blown away by the outstanding rocks, fossils and landforms, whichever section you decide to discover. And there are plenty of walking trails you can choose from, including different lengths and easier ones for smaller children, all starting in the heart of West Dorset. You could also venture to the famous rock arch of Durdle Door and witness a fascinating feat of nature, where the waves have eroded a hole through the middle of the rock to form an arch.

Not only will you experience the stunning scenery of the Jurassic Coast in this visit, but your child can explore nature whilst learning about the Earth’s history, evolution, and how natural processes shape the world we live in.

3. The Lake District 

There are so many things that make the Lake District special — the mountains, the lakes, the woods — all of which will allow you and your little one to connect with nature. The area is made up of 16 stunning lakes, but there are also countless walking trails and adventures that range in difficulty, so are ideal whether you’ve got small children or teenagers. Not to worry if you have a pushchair or wheelchair in your party, as the National Park has safe routes to accommodate this, known as Miles without Stiles. 

It’s Windermere though that is the location of choice for families, where you can fully appreciate the wonder of the outdoors, and is home to one of the biggest lakes in the Lake District. Here, you can even walk in the footsteps of Beatrix Potter, as it’s this landscape that inspired her to create some of her famous tales. You can also visit The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction — nestled in the countryside of the Lake District, it recreates the magical and enchanting stories of Beatrix Potter, with lots of exhibitions and activities for all of the family to enjoy. 

4. Northumberland 

Travel to North East England, and discover Kielder Water and Forest Park, home to northern Europe's largest man-made lake and England's largest forest. The perfect location for nature lovers, you and your little ones can experience an abundance of wildlife, from badgers to bats, red squirrels to birds of prey. 

There are plenty of walking routes that offer some stunning scenery along the way, where you can take in the beauty of the outdoors. But that’s not all — if you wait till it’s dark, this area is known for its minimal light pollution, meaning it is the top spot for stargazing, and an amazing experience in itself. The nights are the darkest here compared to anywhere else in the country, and aren't imposed by the man-made light of any nearby cities. Discover the beauty of the stars, as they seem to shine brighter in this wonderful part of the country. 

5. Isle of Wight 

Another family destination that is jam-packed with both nature and geological history is the Isle of Wight. In 2019, it will become a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural (UNESCO) Biosphere Reserve, meaning the area promotes the conservation of biodiversity with its sustainability. This recognition from UNESCO highlights the isle’s natural beauty and the diverse range of wildlife that can be discovered. 

The fun starts as you venture to the isle via ferry, and glorious, idyllic, and most importantly child-friendly, beaches await you. Admire the calming waters, as you and your family relax on the likes of Shanklin, Sandown and Ventnor beach. 

But it’s not just the nature of the seaside that you can admire, as the Isle of Wight is also home to an 88-acre natural parkland, Robin Hill Park. The Park is surrounded by open rolling countryside, with a stunning woodland and curated water gardens for you and your family to explore. 

6. Devon 

Experience the best the area has to offer, when you visit North Devon. Another coastal town, you can of course expect stunning beaches on your to-do list. If you want to experience more of nature, then you should try the Tarka Trail, inspired by the route taken by Tarka the otter. 

The 180-mile trail is fun for all the family, as you can either walk or cycle to discover the unspoiled countryside, dramatic sea cliffs and beautiful beaches on offer for your delight. Feel truly connected to all aspects of nature, with this diverse and unique trail.