Places to go

The nation’s favourite places

By OS Team

Published on October 6, 2023

16 min read

We asked you to share your special place and what it means to you. Discover the nation’s favourites outdoor spots and visit somewhere new!

Where’s your precious place? Maybe it’s a sunrise spot on your favourite summit or a peaceful park bench in your local town. It might be a place that provides a daily dose of fresh air, or somewhere you’ve enjoyed special holidays. Perhaps a location steeped in precious childhood memories?

Precious places near and far, provide experiences for so many of us and help us make lasting memories outdoors. We asked the nation to tell us about their favourite place to encourage people to find and discover somewhere new. We also asked some of our friends in the outdoor industry to share with us their top places to get outside.

Here is a snapshot of the nation’s favourite places! Is yours in there?

Holcombe Hill, Bury

Recommended by Georgie Eastabrook, Senior Content Executive at GO Outdoors

Georgie and her friend up Holcombe Hill

“Holcombe Hill is special to me as it’s in my hometown, the lovely Ramsbottom, where I have lived all my life. I have walked up the hill countless times and each time it still brings me a wholesome feeling and a sense of accomplishment when I reach the top and take in the beautiful views. I love getting outside to tackle the hill on a Sunday morning and finishing off the walk with a hot chocolate or bite to eat in the centre of Ramsbottom!”

Holcombe Hill in OS Maps

Brant Fell, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria

Recommended by Lee

Brant Fell

Fantastic views over lake Windemere as you can see from the photos. There’s a nice walk to the top starting from the centre of Bowness which can be quite steep in places. On to of Brant Fell you’re rewarded with some incredible Lake District scenery. Below you’ll see the town you’ve just come from and across you’ll see the surrounding mountains. We use the AR viewfinder in OS Maps to see what’s on the horizon. This spot is the perfect place for a picnic on a fine day.

Brant Fell in OS Maps

Cape Wrath, Scotland

Recommended by Sam Jones, Cycling UK’s Cape Wrath Custodian

Sam cycle touring in Cape Wrath

“This rugged, windswept headland is renown for its natural beauty and challenging coastal paths. The most north westerly point on the British mainland, it’s also one of the most inaccessible, and rewarding to reach. If you can make the journey by cycling there, you’re also eligible to join the 74 year-old Cape Wrath Fellowship – a fellowship set up in celebration of those who revel in reaching the wild places by pedal power. Find out more and how to join here.”

Cape Wrath in OS Maps

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Shingle Street, Suffolk

Recommended by Ann

Shingle Street, Suffolk

An area of outstanding beauty, Shingle Street and its naturally occurring lagoon is my precious place. A sunrise swim there is like being on another planet, peaceful and perfect. The best place to unwind.

Shingle Street in OS Maps

Venn Ottery Common, East Devon

Recommended by Alex Deakin, Senior Weather Presenter at the Met Office

Alex enjoying Venn Ottery Common

“My precious place is a short walk up a hill across a little stream, it’s always so peaceful. But it’s the views I come for…. the 360 degrees of the whole sky make cloud spotting immense!On different days, I can see weather fronts coming from the southwest or convergence thunderstorms to the north. The Otter Valley frequently harbours mysteriously atmospheric fog and I’ve even seen snow on East Hill Ridge. To the southeast I regularly see the stratus clouds and mist rolling in from the sea. More often than not, it’s just me and the cumulus clouds and it’s wonderful.”

Venn Ottery Common in OS Maps

Gift Ideas for Hikers (that they’ll really love!)

Seaton Park, Aberdeen

Recommended by Guy

Seaton Park, Aberdeen

My special place is the bloomin’ brilliant Seaton park in sunny Aberdeen. Seaton Park has everything you could want and more from a park including formal and walled gardens, a wetland area, wildflower meadows, a fantastic play space and it even has the beautiful river Don running through it. It’s also a Local Nature Conservation Site and an important green space for the city.

Seaton Park in OS Maps

The Knoll, Puncknowle

Recommended by Carmen Spiers, Corporate Partnerships Manager at the Ramblers

Carmen and The Knoll (credit: Geograph, N Chadwick)

“My precious place would be The Knoll near Puncknowle in Dorset. My family have camped in the small village for many years and every year we climb up the steep path to The Knoll, an old 17th century coastguard lookout. From this vantage point you get the most fantastic views along the Jurassic Coast from Portland in the east to Golden Cap in the west.”

The Knoll in OS Maps

Marcross, Vale of Glamorgan

Recommended by Alun

Vale of Glamorgan

Marcross in the Vale of Glamorgan is on the edge of the sea cliffs facing out to the Bristol Channel. There are two lighthouses there and you can hear the mournful sound of a a bell on a buoy out in the seaway.

Vale of Glamorgan is OS Maps

Simonside Hills, Northumberland

Recommended by Fran Wilson, Digital Marketing Manager at Montane

Simonside Hills, Northumberland

“Simonside is super accessible and there are loads of options to mix up your route. There are always amazing views too, whether it’s dramatic skies, a nice sunset, or deep snow! It’s a precious place in Northumberland for a run or walk.”

Simonside Hills in OS Maps

Winspit, Dorset

Recommended by Nick

Winspit, Dorset

Along the beautiful Jurassic Coast this gem is a great detour from the path. There are caves to explore, cliffs to climb (please be safe and follow local guidance) and if you venture towards the sea dolphins to spot. A special place with special memories.

Winspit in OS Maps

Dochfour, Invernessshire

Recommended by Bill

A friend from university in Edinburgh and I attended a Scout weekend here sailing on Loch Ness and kayaking on the canal. The Saturday night was a beautiful evening, so we went for a walk along the canal. The walk lasted about four hours and we came back holding hands. We were engaged six days later and married twelve weeks later. That was in 1978.

Dochfour in OS Maps

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Cwmbran Boating Lake, Torfaen

Recommended by Lauren Heath, Sport and Physical Activity Coordinator South Wales at Sense

Cwmbran Boating Lake, Torfaen

“I love visiting this spot for a walk, it’s incredibly sensory. Within my role I’m always looking to find new spots that are suitable for people with disabilities to access. The boating lake has a lot to explore and you can choose to be around the vibrant sounds of the playground or relax in a quiet area feeding the ducks. It’s a very accessible spot with flat wide paths and you can never go wrong by ending the walk with a visit to the café. A perfect place for a Sensory Walk“

Cwmbran Boating Lake in OS Maps

Lizard point, Cornwall

Recommended by Nicoletta

Lizard point, Cornwall

Lizard Point is a beautiful part of the Cornish coast with some stunning walks along the South West Coastal path. Even in peak season it’s a fairly quiet spot making it perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle of some of the more popular parts of Cornwall. And, there’s lots of benches along the cliff to sit and watch the sunset.

Lizard point in OS Maps

Firemore, Scottish Highlands

Recommended by Hayley

Firemore, Scottish Highlands

Being by the sea instantly makes me feel calm, I am lucky enough to live on the South Coast but Scotland holds a special place in my heart, being home to lots of my family, and has some of the most beautiful beaches! I love this peaceful spot at Firemore Beach near Poolewe, looking out at the Isle of Ewe. This photo was taken during a trip around the Highlands with family, when I was pregnant with my first baby and thinking about future trips with our own little family!

Firemore in OS Maps

Ardnave Point, Island of Islay in the The Hebrides

Recommended by Andrew Denton, CEO at OIA

Ardnave Point, Island of Islay

“We were touring the western islands of Scotland this summer and trying to ‘wild swim’ every day. Someone recommended Ardnave Point on the north end of Islay – itself a stunning remote Scottish Island with amazing outdoor opportunities. We drove to the end of a gravel track then got on the mountain bikes. 3km of rough remote riding saw us reach the north end and a stunning white sand beach stretched out before us. Turquoise blue waters shelved gently down and sunning themselves on the rocks, a huge group of seals. As we swam in the (freezing cold!) calm ocean the seals bobbed up and down around us, inquisitive and engaged. A Very Precious Place!”

Ardnave Point in OS Maps

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Spyway Footprints, Dorset

Recommended by Alice

Spyway Footprints, Dorset

Spyway Footprints preserves over 100 dinosaur footprints in an old limestone quarry, now cared for by the National Trust. 140 million years ago this location was a coastal lagoon, where dinosaurs gathered at a watering hole. The site may be accessed for free from the village of Langton Matravers, a great day out for young dinosaur enthusiasts!

Spyway Footprints in OS Maps

Langdale Rigg End, North York Moors

Recommended by Jamie

A quiet and isolated hill, that overlooks the stunning North York Moors National Park. It is flanked by Langdale Forest to the west, with uninterrupted views across Harwood Dale and Fylingdales Moor to the north, with the deep wooded valley of Lang Dale skirting alongside the eastern edge.

Langdale Rigg End in OS Maps

Red Pike, High Stile, High Crag Ridge, Cumbria

Recommended by Mike Park, CEO of Mountain Rescue England and Wales

Views to Red Pike, High Stile, High Crag Ridge

“For me this is the best high-level ridge walk in the country, in that it packs so much into what is a comfortable 4-5 hour walk across “my backyard”. I usually set off from Buttermere, head across the bottom end (west) of the lake before heading up the path to Bleaberry Tarn. The path (or Yellow Brick Road as it’s known locally) quickly gains you height before taking the balcony along the lip of Bleaberry Tarn Coombe. A gentle walk to the shores of Bleaberry Tarn leads onto the final climb up the Elephant and onto the summit of Red Pike. A quick breather before setting off on the roller coaster 2-mile ridge, calling at the summits of High Stile and High Crag.

Why is this such a precious place for me? Well, it’s a route that just keeps giving…you are walking on what is probably the highest continuous ridge in the Lakes, looking over at both the picturesque Buttermere valley and the quiet remote Ennerdale Valley, constantly staring at Pillar and Pillar Rock the largest cliff/rock monolith in the Lakes. Every twist and turn along the ridge leaves you staring down gullies and screes to little visited patches of Lakeland.I find this place different every time I walk or run it, a gem in all seasons and all weathers…..it never fails to put a smile on my face and remind me what life is really all about!”

Red Pike in OS Maps

University of Stirling, Scotland

Recommended by Jennifer

University of Stirling, Scotland

It is where I got married, sadly I lost my husband to cancer. We had our wedding photos there and I attended the university. Subsequently I have had two children and we love walking there and exploring the great outdoors.

University of Stirling in OS Maps

Portsdown Hill, Hampshire

Recommended by Alex

Portsdown Hill, Hampshire

Portsdown Hill is a brilliantly well-conserved green space with incredible biodiversity right on the edge of Portsmouth. We love being within a few minutes walk from the hill to see rabbits, foxes, badgers, many butterflies, kestrel, woodpeckers. Our kids love stomping through the grass and finding their own paths.

Portsdown Hill in OS Maps

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Porthtowan Beach, Cornwall

Recommended by Elise Anstey, Partnerships Executive at Mental Health UK

Porthtowan Beach, Cornwall

“At Mental Health UK we promote the ‘5 ways to wellbeing’ which are a set of pillars that are key to improving our mental health. When visiting Porthtowan, two of these pillars in particular resonate with me; Be Active and Take Notice. I always walk along the coastal path down to the beach and really take in my surroundings. Whether that’s the feeling of fresh sea air, the smell of fish and chips, the sound of the seagulls or watching the waves crash as the sun sets. Porthtowan is so special to me because of these reasons, it allows me to feel relaxed and have a few hours of calm and stillness within an otherwise rather busy world.”

Porthtowan Beach in OS Maps

Janet’s Foss, Malham, Yorkshire Dales

Recommended by Kay

Janet’s Foss, Malham

The magic starts when passing through the kissing gate and meandering through the trees. You can easily imagine fairies and sprits dancing about the stones and branches here. A playground for the imagination. Janet’s Foss waterfall is nature showing off! ‘Look at my power and beauty’. Whether you sit with a sarnie, paddle, bathe or capture each moment through a lens. Janet’s Foss will have you captivated. Rooted with nature. Thank full and at peace. Her spell is extraordinary.

Janet’s Foss in OS Maps

Forsythes lock No.6, Newry Canal Towpath, County Down

Recommended by John

Forsythes disused lock and ruins of a lock-house is located on Newry Canal Towpath the walk past this location between Newry and Portadown is mystical and beautiful in all seasons

Forsythes lock in OS Maps

Croyde Bay, Devon

Recommended by Mike Oakey, Chief Marketing Officer, Holidaycottages.co.uk

Croyde Bay, Devon

“With its blend of lively energy and natural beauty, Croyde in Devon is my precious place. I’ve recently stated working in Devon having spent years living in and around London and this stunning coastal town has left a huge impression. In summer, Croyde has the bustling environment I’m used to, so I feel at home, yet it’s still a truly beautiful place. While some may find the summer crowds overwhelming, I’m drawn to the lively atmosphere. With both the energy and the stunning landscapes. Croyde, has quickly become my precious place!”

Croyde Bay in OS Maps

Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve, Milton Keynes

Recommended by Lutin

Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve is a beautiful site with various fascinating wildlife, history and architecture. I also love how passionate local residents and volunteers are about preserving this park – they are very proud to know it so well!

Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve in OS Maps

Ramps Holme Bridge, Muker, Swaledale

Recommended by Iain

Muker, Swaledale

You get to this bridge after a walk across the beautiful meadows of Muker. This is a bridge over the river Swale. In the summer, you can swim just below it in a natural pool in the river. All surrounded by magnificent Yorkshire Scenery.

Muker in OS Maps

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Isle of Sheppey

Recommended by Paula

Isle of Sheppey

A stretch of east-facing, undeveloped coastline where marsh melts into sea and skies are endless. Swim at sunrise when the water shimmers with gold and flocks of birds fill the sky. Follow a footpath to Harty through a nature reserve with Hen and Marsh Harriers, then head for the pub.

Isle of Sheppey in OS Maps

St Martha’s Hill, Surrey

Recommended by Mike Seaman, CEO at Racoon Events

St Martha’s Hill, Surrey

“Just two miles away from our office we can be stood on top of Martha’s Hill, looking at a an incredible view across eight southern counties! The trails around Martha’s are stunning and it is amazing how quickly you can be out of the town centre and immersed in nature. From our headquarters at Raccoon, there is a reasonably challenging 10k route that covers St Martha’s and also Pewley Down nearby – we run it a lot and some of the best ideas for our events have been conceived on those trails.”

St Martha’s Hill, Surrey

Farley Heath Roman Temple, Surrey

Recommended by Paul

Only 30 or so miles from Charing Cross this is a genuinely isolated spot. Precious heathland habitat with wonderful walks, churring Nightjars and this ancient site has a special atmosphere.

Farley Heath Roman Temple in OS Maps

Valley of Rocks, Exmoor

Recommended by Dan

Valley of Rocks, Exmoor

Stunning scenery where the moors of Exmoor meet the sea. And also where I got engaged.

Valley of Rocks in OS Maps

Waterford Marsh, Hertford

Recommended by Peter

Waterford Marsh is a great place to see Hertfordshire’s River Beane at its best: one of only around 200 chalk rivers in the world, with a public footpath running beside it. Watch out for the Kingfisher!

Waterford Marsh in OS Maps

Dulverton, Somerset

Recommended by Paul

Dulverton, Somerset

Dulverton is a friendly small town on the edge of Exmoor National Park which has a delightful selection of independent shops and eating/drinking places. I have been visiting it for over 40 years and it barely changes – which I think is a good thing. It has had its ups and downs but it’s definitely up at the moment!

Dulverton in OS Maps

White Nancy Monument, Cheshire

Recommended by John

White Nancy Monument

White Nancy Monument standing out clearly – this circa 18 foot high white painted Grade 2 listed landmark is visible for miles around. It’s precious to me because it presides over my small home town of Bollington, Also, its a great viewing point on the Gritstone Trail.

White Nancy Monument in OS Maps

Widford Hill Trig Point, Orkney

Recommended by Rebecca

This is where my now Fiancé proposed last year. The weather was grim, our dog was attempting to knock me off the trig point but it was the best day ever!

Widford Hill Trig Point in OS Maps

More than ever, we can’t assume that the places we find precious will be here for generations to come. We all have a responsibility to look after our outdoor spaces and follow the countryside code. It’s as simple as leaving nothing but footprints, taking nothing but memories and respecting the people, plants and animals who occupy the space too.

You may also find our handy guide on hiking for beginners useful, lots of top tips on navigation and staying safe when in the uplands and as the nights are closing in.

We hope this gives you’re a taster of some of the best places to get outside across the UK!

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By OS Team