Bonjour lecteurs! When you grow up in the Bordeaux countryside or the coastlines of Normandy, you soon get used to its beauté. But what we often forget is that the UK is very close and culturally quite similar to France. Many French expats and travellers think you need to head south, or east, to find soul-stirring landscapes. But c’est une erreur! Over the years, I have discovered that British countryside has its unique charm, yet one that can often feel uncannily like France (especially northern France, unsurprisingly). If you want to find the UK equivalents to some of France’s best landscapes, here are some suggestions.
The French-Approved Charm in the British Countryside
The secret to exploring the UK like a true European is to swap the busy tourist hubs for the ancient winding trails. C’est simple as that, and they’re crisscrossing all through the island.
Walking is a national pastime in the UK, in part because the infrastructure is there. No, not just the nature, but the literal laws and national walking paths are uniquely protecting the rights of the foot passenger. You have very little to worry about, even if you do veer into a private farm for a bit.
Before looking at exact routes, it’s worth pointing out that one of the best ways to enjoy walking holidays in England is to use a service like Orbis Ways, which has luggage transfer. This way, you can spend your days leisurely stopping off at scenic points for photographs without worrying too much about the weight on your back. En plus, you can find pre-made routes, and they handpick cosy inns for you (and handle the booking).
British Alternatives to the Rugged Cliffs of Brittany
If you love the wave-battered cliffs and sea air of Brittany, you’re not far away from the English equivalent. Walking along the historic Cleveland Way is a 9 to 11 day trip that has a similar coastal drama. It’s ruthless, in the best way possible.
The route takes you along the North Yorkshire coastline, where you see heather-covered moorlands and vast cliffs. It’s great for birding because of this mix. Plus, you’ll see the typical stone-built fishing villages that have all the old signage and architecture intact.
Mountain Views
C’est difficile to replace the clear alpine waters of Lake Annecy or the peaks of the French Alps. There isn’t a like-for-life alternative, but the Lake District is one of Europe’s most scenic national parks. It has the postcard-perfect mountain views that you want for pictures, with glassy waters all around. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Did you know? If you go off-season, you can even get away with some wild camping.
You’ll see waterfalls and so much more. Be rassured that while there are impressively stunning peaks, none will likely be outside of your ability to climb as they don’t come too tall. The tranquil lakes have a lot of history behind them, inspiring famous writers and poets for centuries. And if you’re into climbing, Kendall is the capital of bouldering and climbing for the UK, just nearby, with a buzzing community.
So, my dear lecteurs, there is no need to catch a flight to a far-flung European national park to find great nature. As long as you pack walking boots suitable for some bog and embrace the wind a little, you will see the British greenery and its surrounding pubs.
Looking for some good spots to see in the UK?
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