Exploring Northern England and Wales Without a Car: A Perfect Outdoor Adventure
As a seasoned traveler, I’ve had my share of experiences roaming the vibrant cities and attractions of Southern England during my studies in London. However, it’s the call of the wild and the natural beauty of Northern England and Wales that have recently captured my imagination. With a high-energy spirit and a yearning for outdoor adventures, I’ve been planning a trip that promises to be both invigorating and scenic.
The Journey Begins
My adventure kicks off with a flight to either Edinburgh or Manchester, from where I intend to travel south using the extensive network of trains and buses. My itinerary includes bustling cities like Edinburgh, Liverpool, and London, though I won’t be spending too much time in urban areas. Instead, I’m eager to plunge into outdoor pursuits.
The Challenge
This trip is technically nine days long, but I will be tied up with work commitments on days two, three, and four, from 2 PM to 10 PM. This time constraint boils my exploration window down to a brisk six full days and three mornings. As I map out my itinerary, I’m faced with the delightful yet daunting task of prioritizing my destinations.
A Dream Itinerary
Ideally, I would love to explore the following during my adventure:
- Northern Airport: Fly into an airport in the region.
- Loch Lomond: Visit the stunning landscapes, possibly via Glasgow or Balloch.
- Hadrian’s Wall: Explore this iconic landmark, perhaps travelling through Carlisle.
- Lake District National Park: Immerse myself in the beauty of Keswick or Oxenholme.
- York Moors National Park: Discover the breathtaking scenery from York.
- Northern Wales: Experience the charm of Conwy or Chester.
- Snowdon: Hike the majestic peaks around Aberystwyth.
- Pembrokeshire Coast: Enjoy the coastal beauty in Tenby or St. David’s.
- Brecon Beacons National Park: Conclude the outdoor journey around Swansea or Cardiff.
- London: Fly out from the capital city.
Reality Check
Admittedly, this ambitious list might be overly optimistic. With limited time and the added constraint of working from a single location during three of my days, I’m trying to strike a balance between exploring and unwinding. Ideally, I would like to base myself somewhere where I can embark on half