breathtaking

Seaside town with breathtaking views feels like ‘a glimpse of Switzerland’

It’s hard to believe this stunning town is within the UK, and it’s the perfect place for Brits to get away

Tucked away in North Devon, this charming town offers a seaside escape with views so breathtaking it’s been likened to Switzerland.

Lynton & Lynmouth is famed for its awe-inspiring natural beauty, attracting Brits who are keen to experience its unique environment, which feels worlds away from the rest of England. Indeed, its spectacular waterfalls and expansive landscapes could easily be mistaken for those found in a mountainous European town, rather than a British coastal resort.

These vistas can be admired from the famous Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway, offering families the opportunity to ascend high into the mountains. This isn’t your average railway – it’s multi-award-winning, having first opened its doors in 1890 as the steepest and highest entirely water-powered railway in the world.

The cliff railway itself is a major draw for tourists, nestled in the heart of Exmoor National Park. It seamlessly connects the towns of Lynton and Lynmouth, providing unforgettable coastal views that will stay etched in your memory forever.

Its iconic structure is one of only three of its kind globally and remains a grade II listed building. With regular services throughout the day, waiting times are typically short, and prices are reasonable at just £3.75 for adults and £2.25 for children, reports the Express.

One holidaymaker took to TripAdvisor to share their delightful experience, writing: “Had an amazing time here, Lynton is a town with shops and beautiful scenery. You have the cliff railway to Lynmouth village that took my breath away. It was an overwhelmingly little village that definitely had little Switzerland feel.”

Another traveller added: “Excellent village and fantastic view; you can feel like you’re in a small village in Switzerland, and the village is absolutely free compared with Clovelly, where you have to pay to see the village.

“When you get to Lynton, you have to go by Cliff Railway, which will cost you around 11 pounds for a family of four but is absolutely worth it.”

The charming twin villages are nestled within Exmoor National Park, a haven of tranquillity and serenity. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views of babbling brooks and deep valleys or yearning for a sense of adventure, the national park caters to all.

Tucked away within the park are several stunning waterfalls, reminiscent of those found across the picturesque landscapes in Switzerland. Two particularly renowned ones are Watersmeet, nestled quietly within woodland and coastal trails.

However, to witness them in their full splendour, it’s best to visit after a heavy downpour.

A visitor shared on TripAdvisor: “A walk down steeply wooded paths, with many seats along the way to stop and admire the place, to a magical meeting of two rivers and waterfalls. A charming house, now a cafe, offers delicious food, and there are many trails to explore.”

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Little-known breathtaking real-life UK waterfall used in huge Hollywood blockbuster

For fans of the director, one iconic location lies much closer to home and it is guaranteed to take your breath away

When you think of Christopher Nolan’s films, your mind might wander to the Parisian boulevards from Inception, New York’s skyscrapers doubling as Gotham in Batman, or even the expansive New Mexico desert featured in Oppenheimer.

However, for devotees of the groundbreaking British director, one iconic location is much closer to home and it’s sure to leave you breathless.

Nestled deep within a wooded gorge on the fringes of the Brecon Beacons, there lies a waterfall so spectacular that it was chosen as a filming location for a major Hollywood blockbuster.

Yet, many Welsh locals may not even be aware of its existence.

Henrhyd Falls, the tallest waterfall in South Wales, was selected by Christopher Nolan as the entrance to the Batcave in his entire The Dark Knight trilogy. Scenes featuring the Black Tumbler – the massive tank-like Batmobile – soaring through the Welsh waters into the superhero’s clandestine lair were filmed here, reports the Express.

But fear not, you don’t need to be the Caped Crusader to visit this waterfall. There’s no need for any of Bruce Wayne’s gadgets, perhaps just a sturdy pair of boots will do.

Your journey begins with a walk along a path through verdant woodland near the village of Coelbren. Here, you can already hear the sound of rushing water in the distance.

A steep yet well-maintained footpath then guides you down into the gorge, winding towards the waters.

After a 20-minute stroll, you’re greeted by the breathtaking sight of a 27-metre waterfall cascading into a moss-lined gorge.

This might trigger memories of Batman’s secret lair from The Dark Knight Rises, as this very waterfall was featured prominently when John Blake, aka Robin, stumbles upon the hidden entrance to the Batcave.

What transforms Henrhyd from just a picturesque scene to a location with Hollywood status is its inherent drama. The waterfall tumbles over a hard sandstone ledge, known locally as the “Farewell Rock”, into a narrow gorge enveloped by dense forest.

It’s slightly off the beaten path, giving it that elusive “hidden lair” feel.

One recent visitor was utterly captivated by the experience, leaving a glowing review: “Henrhyd Falls is absolutely stunning – a hidden gem surrounded by beautiful nature. The walk down to the waterfall is scenic and peaceful, and standing behind the falls is an unforgettable experience. The sound of the rushing water and the lush greenery make it feel magical.”

The optimal time to visit is after a light rain shower, when the waterfall is at its most dramatic, although the paths can be slippery, particularly if you venture behind the curtain of water.

Early mornings are usually quieter, and sturdy footwear is essential – along with a waterproof if you plan to get close enough to feel the spray.

Henrhyd Falls is a must-visit for nature lovers and Batman enthusiasts alike. Even if the Batmobile isn’t spotted in the shadows, visitors will undoubtedly leave with the sense of having uncovered one of Wales’s most captivating hidden gems.

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UK’s most ‘terrifying’ walk edges along sheer cliff but with breathtaking views

The UK is full of beautiful walks, but none of them are quite as terrifying as this one. It’s a narrow path hewn into the side of a cliff, and it’s known as Giddy Edge.

If you fancy yourself as something of a thrill-seeker, then one of the most heart-stopping adventures can be discovered right here in the UK. It’s not bungee jumping or skydiving – this is a simple stroll with a spine-chilling twist.

Towering above the town of Matlock Bath lies a slender pathway carved into the cliff face.

It’s called Giddy Edge, but you’d be wise not to feel dizzy whilst traversing it, as it’s an extremely, extremely long way down.

One man tackled this frightening route and documented the entire experience on TikTok, reports the Express.

Phil, renowned for his travel content, shared his journey along Giddy Edge on TikTok and described it as “absolutely terrifying”.

“The camera does not do justice to either the narrowness of the path or the height of the drop”, he explained in his video, via voiceover.

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Phil revealed he had to add voiceover to his footage because it would have taken him far too long to censor all the profanities he was uttering as he navigated the cliff’s edge.

“It’s bringing me no joy at all; in fact, it’s bringing me genuine terror. I don’t like it.”

The route sits directly on the brink of a 300-foot vertical plunge down to the town beneath, and the most perilous section features a metal handrail fixed into the cliff so you can grip onto it as you inch your way across the most terrifying part of the trek.

After you’ve conquered this stomach-churning elevated point, the remainder of the trail remains just as lofty.

There’s no barrier separating you from the precipice, but there are several benches where you can perch and recover your composure. Giddy Path also operates a one-way system to prevent gridlock on the perilously narrow route.

However, if you’d rather not crawl along Britain’s most spine-chilling pathway, alternative routes exist – though they’re equally lofty.

Despite the path being absolutely terrifying, the panoramic views across Matlock Bath are genuinely stunning – just ensure you’re careful if you fancy a peek.

The route should be steered clear of during any wet or blustery conditions to prevent serious harm or fatality.

Phil remarked: “For me, it’s not about how lethal Giddy Edge is, and it is lethal. Do not go and mess around up there.

“It’s about how accessible it is – yes, there are lethal paths in Wales and the Lake District, but you have to put some work in, you have to walk a few miles to risk your mortality for them.”

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‘I found the world’s most breath-taking landscapes with four seasons in a day’

We discovered unforgettable scenery, culture and cuisine on a trip to the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador’s western coast, with glacier-carved fjords and the Earth’s mantle

Majestic mountains, ancient glaciers and miles of untouched landscapes where moose and caribou thrive are just part of what makes Western Newfoundland so spectacular. With a rich history filled with Indigenous, English, Irish and French influences, this region in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador is a place of pure beauty, with a charm echoed by its residents.

You’ll be welcomed with open arms and told, “It’s the people that you’re going to meet that will make your experience.” The uncrowded paradise stretches 750 kilometres and is one of the rare places in the world you can walk on the Earth’s mantle and gaze at glacier-carved fjords. The area is known to experience four seasons in a day, as locals told us, “If you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes!”

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Cosy cabins

Our first stop was family-run Shallow Bay Motel & Cabins in the small fishing village of Cow Head. Our room was cosy and comforting with views out to the serene waters. The inviting wooden porch was the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee in the morning, and the motel also offers guests a dip in its outdoor heated pool or hot tub overlooking the sea.

Our next stay was further down the coast in the town of Norris Point. Sugar Hill Inn is set on a hillside and has generously sized rooms and wrap-around porches. Our room had charming wooden floors and interiors, and an outside entrance led to our decking area with wooden Adirondack chairs for lounging.

Natural wonders

Carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age more than 10,000 years ago, the landlocked fjord of Western Brook Pond is one of the most popular places to visit in Newfoundland. Located in Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has towering cliffs, misty waterfalls cascading from 2,000-feet high and a pristine freshwater lake. We marvelled at this breathtaking fjord with its picture-postcard views during a two-hour boat trip, complete with insightful commentary from a friendly Bontours crew member. Keep an eye out for the hidden face in the rocks, naturally chiseled by time and weather, known as the Tin Man.

The Tablelands in Gros Morne National Park is one of the few places in the world where you can encounter the Earth’s mantle – the layer of silicate rock between the crust and the outer core. In an experience we won’t forget in a hurry, we walked on the exposed ground – which we were told is similar to that on Mars – along a 4km trail through the striking valleys.

Cultural tour

In Norris Point, we threw ourselves into the local culture and journeyed back in time on an Indigenous Tour with Gros Morne Adventures, experiencing life through the eyes of the first inhabitants. Starting in a canoe, we paddled across serene waters as bald eagles flew above to Bonne Bay, where colourful cabins decorate the shoreline. A speed boat then took us to Gadd’s Harbour where we disembarked to hike through woodland, following moose trails while passing wildflowers, raspberry shrubs and squash berries.

We learnt how locals had a“boil up”, making a campfire to serve tea while out in the wilderness – a tradition many still hold today. We also made Lu’skinikin (bannock), a traditional Indigenous bread, before trying our hand at creating a fire using Stone Age tools.

We also took a stroll around Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse, which once guided fishermen and sailing vessels into Bonne Bay, and sampled local honey during a tour at the Cormack Bee Company. We couldn’t resist buying their red Thai chilli-infused honey to bring back home.

For a night like no other, we attended the annual Writers at Woody Point Literary Festival, where we enjoyed live music from the likes of Ed Robertson, frontman of the band Barenaked Ladies, and who wrote the theme song for sitcom The Big Bang Theory. It was an evening we’ll remember forever.

Coastal cuisine

We discovered a thriving food scene in Newfoundland, with nods to Indigenous dishes while paying homage to its European influences, and a strong focus on fresh fish and seafood. At the Buoy & Arrow Restaurant in Rocky Harbour, we had our first taste of moose in a soup, before sharing a snow crab Nmjinikej dip with salted flatbread chips. A visit here wouldn’t be complete without ordering their signature lobster roll.

Shallow Bay Family Restaurant in Cow Head saw us dine on fresh salmon from their menu of local favourites and sip refreshing beer, brewed with iceberg water, while admiring the views of the bay through their panoramic windows.

Another highlight was Chanterelles at Sugar Hill Inn, which offers a fine dining experience in an intimate yet relaxed setting. We started with the seafood cakes with shrimp, salmon and cod, before relishing the succulent roasted duck breast with partridgeberry and orange gastrique and roasted garlic mash.

The Black Spruce at Neddies Harbour Inn was nothing short of perfection too – even our freshly baked bread with molasses butter to start left us speechless. Some favourites on the menu include the seafood chowder and the Atlantic beef tenderloin.

How to book

Rooms at Shallow Bay Motel start from £87, and at Sugar Hill Inn from £134 per night, based on two sharing. Air Canada offers return flights from London Heathrow to Deer Lake, Newfoundland and Labrador (via Halifax, Nova Scotia) from £587pp. See newfoundlandlabrador.com and atlanticcanadaholiday.co.uk for more details.

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‘Breathtaking’ UK town with ‘fairytale’ cottages and ‘delightful’ market

The market town of Minchinhampton is a hidden gem in the Cotswolds, with its pretty cottages, country market and ‘breathtaking’ views making it a must-visit for those exploring the area

The Cotswolds, renowned for its charm, is home to a lesser-known gem that you might not have considered visiting but is definitely worth exploring.

Tucked away on the edge of Stroud and Nailsworth, just south of the Cotswolds, lies the small yet delightful market town of Minchinhampton. Much like its neighbours, this charming town boasts an array of picturesque cottages and buildings that seem straight out of a storybook.

History

The architecture of Minchinhampton tells a tale of times gone by, with many buildings dating back to the 17th century and the mediaeval wool trade. Interestingly, much of the town’s history is steeped in beer, specifically, West Country Ales.

Several of the town’s notable pubs proudly display a plaque reading ‘West Country Ales – Best in the West – 1760’, a nod to their connection with the Stroud Brewery. These plaques can be spotted outside establishments such as The Crown and the Market Place, as well as other pubs that have since shut up shop, reports the Express.

Views

What draws visitors to Minchinhampton from all corners of the globe are the awe-inspiring views of the Stroud Valleys surrounding the Common. The vistas are wide-ranging and often described as ‘breathtaking’, with the west side offering views over the Severn estuary into Wales and the east overlooking the Golden Valley and the rest of the Cotswolds.

The area is recognised as a significant archaeological landscape, meticulously managed under the National Trust. When motoring across the common, visitors should keep their eyes peeled for cows, and they can also anticipate spotting free-roaming horses, rare orchids, and stunning butterflies.

Market

One of Minchinhampton’s key attractions is its wholesome weekly country market, complemented by an excellent array of local cafes and farm shops. The market hall, a quaint 17th-century building adored by locals, serves the community from the town centre.

Minchinhampton Market operates every Wednesday from 8.30am to 11.30am, according to a local events forum. Here, you’ll discover stalls selling cakes, plants, preserves, and seasonal fruit and vegetables, along with a broad selection of glassware, pottery and other crafts.

Thanks to its idyllic setting, the town served as the backdrop for a BBC TV adaptation of J. K. Rowling’s Casual Vacancy. Much like its Cotswolds counterparts, plenty of filming took place in and around the town.

Other activities in Minchinhampton include numerous walking routes, horse-riding, golfing and even paragliding from the common for the more adventurous. The town famously hosts an annual circus known as Giffords Circus throughout the summer, so for those seeking a unique experience, it might be worth visiting during this time of year.

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Dreamy ‘fairytale’ UK village with breathtaking views gets mistaken for Italy

Tourists have been raving about a picturesque UK village that could make you believe you are in Italy. It boasts colourful buildings, secret gardens and so much more

This beautiful village is in the UK
This beautiful village is in the UK(Image: Ian Cooper/North Wales Live)

People have been wowed by this beautiful village said to be “like walking though a storybook” which is often mistaken for Italy – but it’s in the UK. While travelling abroad is amazing, it can be expensive, especially in popular tourists spots in Italy. However, just a train ride away or short flight is the peaceful village of Portmeirion in Gwynedd, north Wales, that looks like Lake Como.

The amazing spot, which has been inundated with five star reviews on Tripadvisor, boasts breathtaking scenery, sub-tropical gardens and adorable cottages as well as plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants – and even an authentic Italian-style gelato shop.

The hidden gem boasts colourful buildings, palm trees, and plenty of outdoor seating and hospitality spots overlooking the beautiful seafront.

Tripadvisor describes the spot as a “dreamlike world, full of surprises” full of rich history. The picturesque location has been used as a backdrop for a number of films and TV shows.

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The welsh village boasts beautiful, peaceful gardens
The welsh village boasts beautiful, peaceful gardens(Image: ITV)

A couple, who call themselves Cez and Gaz and love travelling, shared a viral video of the spot and their review on TikTok recently. Cez said: “Would you believe me if I told you this isn’t an Italian village but it’s actually somewhere in the UK.”

She added: “This dreamy village was designed in the 1920s by a Welsh architect to bring a touch of the Mediterranean to Britain and it took nearly 50 years to build. It’s tucked away on the coast, it’s full of colourful buildings, secret gardens, sandy beaches and even a giant chessboard.”

She added: “It honestly feels like walking through a storybook. It’s the perfect spot for summer photos, getting your steps in or enjoying some delicious food.”

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“My mum got married here, it was so special,” added one. “How have I never heard of this?” commented one other. “No way, really I can’t believe this,” added another.

One other said: “I had a mini holiday there last year and I stayed in the castle upon entry.” Another shared: “Well worth the entry price. We got there early and it wasn’t too busy. If it looks familiar it was the backdrop for the show The Prisoner in the ’60s.”

You have to pay to visit the village. It is priced at £20 per day for adults, £17.50 for students and visitors over 60. Children between ages five and 15 can visit for £15, while children under five can visit for free. Visitors can also get family tickets. All tickets can be purchased from the Portmeirion website.

How to get there

If you are travelling from England, a train from London will take you a minimum of five hours and 50 minutes. From Manchester it takes around five hours, and generally about four hours and 45 minutes from Birmingham on a train. Many people opt to drive or travel by coach when holidaying to Wales.

If you would prefer to fly, you can catch a plane to Anglesey Airport – 30 miles from Portmeirion. The hub hosts twice daily flights from Cardiff Airport on weekdays.

The nearest major international airports to Portmeirion are Liverpool John Lennon Airport and Manchester Airport, both approximately two hours away by road.

The journey from Manchester airport and Liverpool airport is around 100 miles, and takes about two hours. So if you live down south, it might be a good idea to fly up to northern England first if long car or train journey are not for you.

Do you have a travel-related story? Get in touch at [email protected].

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Stunning UK harbour town with ‘haunting’ castle home to breathtaking walk trail

The UK is home to some of the most beautiful walks in the world, and one in particular is a must-visit this summer – especially if you love to snap photos

Dunnottar castle
Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire boasts some gorgeous scenery and even a castle(Image: Atlantide Phototravel via Getty Images)

If you’re looking for a sign to get outside and discover the UK’s amazing landscapes, consider this your cue. A picturesque harbour town in the UK, boasting stunning coastal views and even a castle to explore, should be on your travel list, as there is so much to see and do there.

Stonehaven, located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is an ideal destination for a summer getaway. According to a recent study by CEWE experts, this charming location boasts one of the most scenic walks in the UK.

If you’ve visited before, you’ll understand why – the incredible landscape could easily have come straight from a postcard.

Each spot on the list was evaluated based on star ratings, review count, and descriptive terms such as ‘beautiful’, ‘stunning’, ‘amazing’, and ‘lovely’ – words typically linked with photogenic locations that leave lasting impressions.

The walk around Dunnottar Castle tied for second place overall with Powis Castle in Wales, surpassed only by Mount Stewart in Northern Ireland, reports the Express.

Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire stands as one of Scotland’s most precious landmarks, having shaped the nation’s story across 1,000 years of history.

Dunnottar castle
A walk around the grounds of Dunnottar Castle is a must (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Boasting dramatic clifftop panoramas, this remarkable fortress has welcomed legendary figures including Mary Queen of Scots throughout the centuries.

The castle has also served as the backdrop for numerous Hollywood productions, including Disney’s Brave and Mel Gibson’s Hamlet, with its official website noting that the ‘haunting’ castle has featured on the big screen many times.

They said: “Perched on a cliff-top amidst striking scenery with stunning seascape views, it’s not hard to understand why the beauty of this outstanding location has been captured on the silver screen on numerous occasions.”

Positioned dramatically on a towering 160-foot precipice and encircled by sparkling waters, this magnificent structure truly must be seen to be believed.

Visitors can venture to the Aberdeenshire coast to secure tickets for exploring the castle itself, or alternatively wander the surrounding grounds whilst admiring the view.

Cowie Harbour, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
Stonehaven is the perfect place to spend a summer staycation(Image: Getty)

Things to do in Stonehaven

Dunnottar Castle is about 1.6 miles south of Stonehaven, so it’s the perfect place to visit if you’re in the area. But aside from the castle, there are so many brilliant things to do in this town.

No trip to Stonehaven would be complete without dedicating time to the charming harbour area.

There are so many places offering the perfect spots to dine, sip drinks and unwind, whilst there’s nothing quite like observing the boats gently swaying in the water.

During your stay, make sure to explore the Tolbooth Museum, which is the town’s most ancient building and previously served as a jail many years ago.

Many original elements remain intact, including the traditional prison cell entrance. And if you’re in the mood for a bit of adventure, you could also give paddleboarding lessons a go out on the water.

However, if you’re not quite up for braving the sea, there’s an outdoor swimming pool situated along the seafront that remains open until September.

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‘Breathtaking’ UK beach with ‘beautiful blue water’ and ‘soft sand’ is ‘paradise’

The ‘beautiful’ cove has been described as a ‘hidden gem’ and the ‘perfect escape’ from tourist traps

Visitors say the 'white sand' cove is 'paradise'
Visitors say the ‘white sand’ cove is ‘paradise’(Image: Getty)

A “hidden gem” beach has been hailed as the “perfect escape”. The “magical little cove” in West Cornwall is loved for its “beautiful turquoise water and white sand.” Reviewers have described Nanjizal Beach as “very scenic,” praising the “breathtaking” views and the “unusually clear” water.

For locals, the beauty of this spot is no secret, but for those living further inland, the beach could offer a welcome respite from the usual tourist hotspots. The remote location means it’s only accessible on foot, with rocks and boulders to navigate along the way.

It’s also crucial to check the tide times before setting off, reports Cornwall Live. However, at the end of your journey, you’re greeted with “postcard” scenery, while at low tide, it’s often possible to take a dip in the tidal pool – if you’re brave enough to face the chilly water.

Blogger Lizzy Parkin, who posts on TikTok under the handle @flossys_wonderland, shared a video showcasing the “beautiful” beach. She told her followers: “I’m on a mission to find places across the UK that make people say, ‘I can’t believe this is the UK.’

“This is episode 2, and I’m sharing a stunning swimming spot, cove and natural rock pool.” Lizzy added: “The water here is a crystal turquoise colour, and these clips are completely unedited.

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“The colour really is that bright. This spot is inaccessible by car, making it even more special and uncrowded. We parked at Lands End car park and walked the coastal path for around 30 minutes, which was absolutely beautiful.

“It has cliff and ocean views all the way along. If you do decide to swim in the rock pool, please be careful when making your way over to it. You’ll need to climb over rocks which are extremely slippery, and it may be wise to bring wet shoes to make the walk over easier.

“This place is called Nanjizal Bay.” Replying to the video, one commenter said: “My favourite beach.” Another wrote: “I’ll never forget that tight little walk which nearly made me turn back but it was sooooo worth it.”

Nanjizal Beach also receives rave reviews on TrustPilot. For instance, one visitor wrote: “Hidden Gem. This beach has the most beautiful turquoise water and white sand, and is the perfect escape from the tourist traps like Land’s End. The walk around the Coast Path is incredible when the sun is shining, and you can see Nanjizal Beach glistening in the distance as you come around the headland.

The beauty of the Song of the Sea cave in the Cornish coast
The Song of the Sea cave is popular with swimmers(Image: Getty)

“This recent visit was the first time I’d been with our dog, and my only piece of advice would be just to be wary of the steps down to the beach with your 4 legged friend. My Cocker Spaniel is not the most delicate or agile so struggled a bit with the steps and the scramble to the sand, but once we were on the beach he had a lovely time!”

Someone else wrote: “Lovely beach. Very scenic.” They explained: “A lovely beach with beautiful blue water, clear pools to splash around in and a fresh water stream dropping down off the cliff. Very scenic. Large boulders scattered across the beach make it a little hard to access parts of the beach.”

Another review said: “A 2-3 hour walk from Sennen Cove along a breathtaking coastal stretch, which passes a shipwreck, OR you can take a diagonal path from Land’s End across the cliffs (faster but not as breathtaking). You will pass a patch of stinging nettles, and a narrow stretch with a steep drop so keep dogs on leashes, and keep hold of kids.

“Once you get to the cove, it is literally paradise. Crystal clear water, caves, turquoise ocean, soft white sand and not many people. We were lucky enough to see Seals bathing, too! There are no kiosks, toilets or anything there so go prepared.”

According to the Cornwall Beach Guide, there is only a small strip of sand at the beach this summer. A notice on the website reads: “Usually there is plenty of sand but at times, especially after stormy weather the sand can be stripped from the beach to leave a beach consisting mainly of boulders.

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“There are no facilities or parking at Nanjizal and the beach is only accessible by walking. Update summer 2025 – this summer the beach is mainly boulders with only a small strip of sand.”

The guide adds: “Access is via the coast path from either Porthgwarra, Lands End or Sennen Cove. It takes about 30 minutes to walk from Porthgwarra to Nanjizal Beach, about 45 minutes from Lands End to Nanjizal. Final access to Nanjizal Beach is via steep steps.”

Moreover, the guide cautions that the boulders can be slippery when wet, there are reports of rip currents, and the path from Land’s End to Nanjizal has unprotected cliff edges. Visitors should always exercise caution, check the forecast, and adhere to safety guidelines when walking and swimming.

Nanjizal Beach is located near Porthgwarra, Cornwall. The beach is not accessible by car. The postcode for Porthgwarra Car Park is TR19 6JP.

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Breathtaking lake named UK’s most beautiful has 22 islands and a charming village

The UK is home to some stunning scenery, including forests, rivers and charming villages, but one lake has been named the most beautiful in the country

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park - Scotland
This is the most gorgeous place in the UK(Image: Flavio Vallenari via Getty Images)

The UK boasts some truly breathtaking landscapes. From forests and rivers to quaint villages and lakes, we’re spoilt for choice. But new research suggests one lake in particular outshines the rest with its stunning beauty.

According to Go Outdoors, the crown for the most picturesque spot in the UK goes to Loch Lomond in Scotland, a vast lake complete with a nearby National Park and even an ancient village ripe for exploration. Tucked away in southern Scotland, Loch Lomond is the UK’s most scenic lake, boasting over 600,000 social media posts.

This 22-mile-long expanse of water, the largest by surface area in Britain, is nestled amongst hills in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, making it the ideal location for that Instagram-worthy snap.

The West Highland Way is one of the most famous long distance hiking trails in the world. It is Scotland's first National Trail covering roughly 150km from Milngavie to Fort William through the beautiful Scottish highlands.
Boats on Loch Lomond(Image: by Marc Guitard via Getty Images)

Visitors can maximise their experience by scaling the nearby Ben Lomond mountain for even more jaw-dropping vistas.

The colossal loch is peppered with a staggering 22 islands. To get a glimpse of these islands, hopping on a boat tour is your best bet, reports the Express.

Inchcailloch is one of the most accessible islands of Loch Lomond, with a ferry service running from Balmaha. It’s part of the Nature Reserve and is home to otters, deer and a plethora of bird species.

Loch Lomond in the autumn, Scotland
This gorgeous spot is stunning year round (Image: Cavan Images via Getty Images)

The largest island, Inchmurrin, is also reachable by ferry, with a service departing from the jetty at Arden. This island is steeped in history and hosts several intriguing ruins, including Lennox Castle and a 7th-century monastery.

Nestled on the western banks of the lake, you’ll find the enchanting village of Luss, a settlement steeped in history dating back to the 11th century.

Luss is a picturesque haven of quaint stone cottages, blooming gardens and offers stunning vistas across the loch.

Beyond its medieval allure, Luss boasts an array of independent boutiques ideal for securing mementoes of your visit, along with a wealth of cafes, restaurants and pubs where you can unwind while soaking up the breathtaking scenery.

While Luss tends to draw crowds during the summer season, an early arrival can help you sidestep the throngs and fully savour your day trip.

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