United Kingdom - Nature and Wildlife
In regards to nature, what Britain lacks in large mammals, it more than makes up for in stunning scenery and landscapes. The largest mammals found in Britain are the red deer and the indigenous roe deer. Smaller mammals like hedgehogs, moles, hares, badgers and otters are very common. As an island nation, the waters around Britain are teeming with marine life including dolphins and orcas, depending on the time of year. In fact, the seas around Scotland are among the most biologically productive in the world.
There are three national parks in Wales that protect approximately 20% of the country. One of the most well known of the parks is Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Established in 1952, it is the only UK park to be designated completely because of its coast. The park is home to many rare birds and its waters host the likes of Atlantic grey seals, dolphins and porpoises. Within this one protected area are seven special areas of conservation, a marine nature reserve, six national nature reserves and seventy-five sites of specific scientific interest.
While there are currently no official national parks in Northern Ireland, there are eight recognized areas known as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Of these areas, the Causeway Coast is one of the most famous. The coast extends for 30 km along the North Antrim Coast. Designated as a World Heritage Site in 1986, Giant’s Causeway is an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that were the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. These columns form a path, or “highway”, that disappears under the sea, lending itself to the legend that it was used by giants.
There are ten national parks in England that provide conservation for many different landscapes across the country. Lake District National Park, designated in May 1951 is the second largest national park in Britain, and is the most visited. The park hosts Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England and Wast Water Lake, the deepest lake in Britain. The mountains, known locally as “fells” are popular amongst hill walkers and nature lovers. The area contains a vast history and a rich literary past that includes the likes of William Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter, Alfred Wainwright and more.
Scotland has two national parks including Cairngorms National Park, located in the northeastern part of the country. Covering 4,500 square kilometres, it is the largest national park in Britain. It became Scotland’s second national park in 2003, following the designation of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park the year before. There are many opportunities to view wildlife in the park as it lays claim to Britain’s highest and biggest mountain range.
United Kingdom Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy to navigate travel information section dedicated to United Kingdom.
Learn about the history and culture of United Kingdom, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about United Kingdom's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering United Kingdom for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our United Kingdom tours today!
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