Wondering about the best thing in the UK? Well, it’s, without a doubt, the myriad of hidden gems!
Sure, you might know about the hidden beaches, in-the-know hiking spots and even those postcard-pretty gardens, but have you ever thought of exploring those top spots offering a picturesque landscape?
In this article, from river swimming in Oxfordshire to quad biking in Leicester, we’ll be sharing the country’s most incredible sporting destinations with you. By visiting these glorious sporting spots, you’re sure to experience views that are nothing less than a paradise!
Let’s dive right in!
1. River Swimming, Oxfordshire
If you’re looking to dip your toe in a water sport, then a river swimming trip in clean and calm water flanked along the countryside could be a tempting prospect.
Unlike the case with sea swimming, this sport happens in sheltered water; it uncovers from the riverbank of Buscot Lock near Lechlade and moves towards Buckland Marsh near Faringdon, alongside England’s famous waterway. This means, you’re in for an amazing time all while enjoying the beautiful landscape surrounding it.
To participate in this sport though, you need to have some basic knowledge of open-water swimming and ensure that you’ll be able to complete the distance of 6km (this is divided in smaller sections, of course!).
Note – With a safety team to guide you throughout the course, you’ll be in safe hands!
2. Quad Biking, Leicestershire
Fancy zooming up and down on muddy terrain while sitting atop an ATV? A quad bike safari with tracks through farmlands and woodlands is just the sport you’re looking for!
Offering you some breathtaking views of English wildlife and countryside, quad biking at Avalanche Adventure is perfect for every adventure lover. Not only does it let you experience the thrill of driving on hills but also enables you to explore inaccessible spots.
What’s more, it makes for one of the best outdoor adventures to indulge in with your group of friends.
3. Wild Camping, Cairngorms
If you’re in search of a true sense of freedom, then nothing can beat the sport of wild camping.
Sure, camping away from designated sites is considered illegal in most of England and Wales, but in Scotland it’s very much legal. That said, if you’re planning to go on a wild camping trip (alone or with your group), Glenfeshie, Cairngorms is the best spot.
Offering a beautiful night life experience under canvas along with mountain vistas and tumbling waterfalls surrounding the spot, this place is truly magical and helps you uplift the sense of remoteness.
Additionally, this spot is home to the country’s most successful rewilding project and the starting point for several walking routes meaning you get to hike straight from your tent. While at it though, do map out the potential pitch and try to stay away from bogs and paths.
4. Windsurfing, Norfolk
Embellished by gold sand beaches, Norfolk’s north coast boasts a breathtaking windsurfing spot which stretches from Hunstanton to Great Yarmouth.
Not only is this sport perfect for professionals but beginners can also participate in it – thanks to the safe and shallow waters in Hunstanton Watersports where the very first lesson is conducted on a sheltered lake before moving to the sea.
The best part about this sport is that its half-day, group sessions cover all the basics which includes launching, turning around, sailing across the wind and landing – this means, you’ll be properly trained before you move onto the next level.
5. Foraging Courses, Different Locations
Nibbling leaves, snapping stems and exploring spots where things grow… this is what a foraging course is all about. In fact, this sport helps you understand the difference in taste that wild food has to offer when compared to the dishes you eat at restaurants.
If you wish to indulge in this experience, then foraging courses are available in various locations like Wiltshire, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Suffolk and Kent.
Through this sport, you can learn how to identify edible flowers, plants and shoots in your surroundings before cooking and transforming them into dishes like elderflower champagne, mushroom pasta, wild garlic pesto and more!
To Sum Up
These are some of the top sports in the UK that not only help you indulge in various experiences but also let you explore several picturesque landscapes that you’re sure to remember forever.
Why not choose one of these sports and explore the hidden gems that the UK has to offer?
