You don’t have to travel very far in the UK to find a wealth of gorgeous scenery and fascinating history to explore and enjoy in our National Parks, says Marcus Leach

One of my abiding memories from a childhood that was full of outdoor adventures is weekends spent romping all over the Peak District National Park, often chasing after our Jack Russell as she disappeared along trails and tracks leading over all manner of hills.

Little did I know it at the time, but those escapades were the foundation for the life I have gone on to lead, with the outdoors very much at its heart.

Not only that, but those trips were my first experiences of the pleasures of visiting a National Park – in fact, the very first one to be designated as such anywhere in the UK.

The Peak District was recognised as our first National Park 70 years ago, in 1951, and since then, 14 more of these wonderful places have joined the list.

The great outdoors

These days, with touring abroad still something of an uncertainty, there has never been a better time to explore one or more of our National Parks.

In their different ways, these glorious regions simply encapsulate the history and character of the place we call home – its hills, woodlands, lochs, ancient forests, coasts and mountains.

Gorgeous to look at and fascinating to explore, our National Parks are full of possibilities for adventure, and the perfect way to reconnect with the great outdoors. Read on to find out more about what they have to offer!

1 South Downs

It’s strange to think the South Downs, ‘the gateway to England’, are a short journey from bustling central London, such is the contrast between the two worlds.

Famed for the dazzling white chalk cliffs, topped by rolling fields studded with an array of wildflowers, it’s easy to overlook the region’s many other attractions.

With an abundance of ancient woodland, some of our finest vineyards, heathland on the western Weald and plenty of pretty villages, there’s a lot more to the area than just the cliffs. There’s walking galore, no matter what your level of fitness might be.

Where to stay Slindon C&CC Site (campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk)

What to do Take a walk, ideally at sunset, along the coastal path to enjoy the iconic view. Stretching along the coast to the Seven Sisters, the rippling walls of chalk are a must-see.

Did you know? The most recent of the UK National Parks, South Downs was designated in 2010. It contains 1813km of footpaths and 1213km of bridleways.

Find out more www.southdowns.gov.uk

2 New Forest

Steeped in history and home to swathes of ancient woodland, the New Forest was William the Conqueror’s hunting ground. Better known today for the abundance of animals – New Forest ponies, donkeys, pigs and cattle – that roam freely here, the area played a vital part in both World Wars, as well as providing inspiration for Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Surrounded by bustling towns and cities, this region is still a haven of tranquillity.