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Whether you’re planning a weekend away in April, or just fancy a day trip to soak up the March sunshine, there are plenty of UK destinations where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of spring. Here are seven of our favourite locations you can travel to from anywhere in the country to enjoy all that springtime has to offer.
1. Winterbourne House and Garden
You wouldn’t think that this fully-restored Edwardian home is just a few minutes from the hustle and bustle of a major city centre. Set within seven acres of gardens, you’ll be instantly transported from Birmingham to the countryside as you discover over 6,000 plant species and enjoy the insects, birds and other wildlife inside the botanic gardens.
There’s also a woodland walk, a hazelnut tunnel and a 1930’s Japanese garden to explore, or, if the weather takes a turn for the worse, you can head into the house for a historical tour, or enjoy a hot drink and cake in the cafe.
2. Sefton Park
If you’re looking for an escape to the countryside in Liverpool, then Sefton Park is the perfect place to explore. If you’re looking for a sunny walking route, then the park has lots of paths for you to enjoy. Or, if you’re little ones need to let off steam, there’s plenty of wide-open spaces for them to play in, plus there are woodland and small lakes where you can do some local wildlife spotting.
During any unexpected rain shower, head to the Palm House where you can wander and discover plants from all over the world, or relax with a hot drink and enjoy a break from all your exploring.
3. Queen Elizabeth Forest Park
For a short break to get you away from it all, the rugged and beautiful landscape of Loch Lomond is a perfect place to welcome in the spring. At Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, the walks stretch from the banks of the Loch through the rolling Trossachs Hills and up the craggy hills of Strathyre.
One of the best-known forest walks near Glasgow, you can explore the many miles of this national park on foot, by bike or even on horseback. Plus, between March and September, you might be able to spot one of the Aberfoyle Ospreys that make this park their home.
4. Kensington Gardens
With London Paddington and Marylebone train stations a short walk away, Kensington Gardens mean you can escape into glorious springtime without having to leave the centre of the capital. Sat on the other side of the Serpentine Lake from Hyde Park, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of its paths and open spaces or explore is attractions. These include the statue of Peter Pan, the Albert Memorial and the Serpentine Art Gallery, making Kensington Gardens the perfect place to visit on a springtime city break.
5. Arthur’s Seat
One of the most historical parts of Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat is one of four hill forts in Holyrood Park and dates from around 2,000 years ago. As well as enjoying a relaxing spring walk, you can discover the wildlife and volcanic geology of the area, including unique habitats or special sites of scientific interest. A great place to visit in all weathers, Arthur’s Seat also gives some of the best views of this historical city.
6. Fletcher Moss and Botanical Gardens
Enjoy the first spring flowers and spot some of the local wildlife in one of Manchester’s best-loved parks. Jump off the train at East Didsbury station and explore miles of walking routes and beautiful gardens, many of which are maintained by teams of volunteers. Enjoy the setting sun behind some of England’s most beautiful Alpine trees before grabbing a coffee and wandering through the Nature trail or Wellbeing garden.
7. Bodnant Garden
A short distance from Llandudno Junction train station, this National Trust site is set at the foot of Snowdonia and has more than 80 acres of ground to explore. From huge displays of spring flowers to water gardens and giant trees, you can fill a beautiful spring day with walks through wildflower meadows and rose gardens.
Take a guided tour through the gardens, which have been established over 150 years, or take your own camera or sketchbook to capture your favourite parts of this North Wales treasure.
