Historic attractions
History revealed. Ancient attractions.
The unique landscape of our National Parks has been shaped by people just like you and me over thousands of years and provides a rich source of inspiration for visitors. Home to a host of historic sites, castles and monuments – some dating back to the last Ice Age – it’s the perfect opportunity to step back in time and explore beautifully preserved structures charting the history of our ancient isles.
Exploring our castles and monuments.
We work with landowners to allow the public access to historical sites so please behave responsibly to protect these landmarks. Join one of our guided walks and talks to get the most out of your experience. Follow the signs and pick up the leaflets and publications charting the stories of local people.
Discover incredible castles and monuments
Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons)
You’ll find enigmatic medieval castle ruins to opulent mansions all the way from the English border to the westernmost reaches of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
This working landscape has been shaped through centuries by the people who lived and worked there. The area is steeped in history and has a wealth of cultural heritage.
North York Moors
Unlock 900 years of life at Helmsley Castle and discover how it evolved over the centuries. North York Moors allow you to chart the history of this iconic structures and the surrounding landscape.
Northumberland
Home to what must be Roman Britain’s most iconic landmark, Hadrian’s Wall running from the Solway Firth to Wallsend offers fantastic walking routes and family destinations along its 73-mile stretch.
Eryri (Snowdonia)
The changing relationship between people and nature over the centuries has produced some of the country’s most beautiful and varied landscapes. Eryri (Snowdonia) is regarded as a national asset, essential to both the identity and individual sense of place and wellbeing of local people.
Yorkshire Dales
Best known for stunning scenery and incredible natural attractions, the Dales are also home to iconic monuments and historic houses.
New Forest
With a rich history and heritage dating back to the Mesolithic times, the New Forest National Park provides a fascinating insight into our past.
National Park Experiences Collection
National Park Experiences are a great way to learn and get the most from our Monuments. Step back in time to experience the history and mystery of ancient Britain and its people in Dartmoor. Discover stunning scenery at monastic site Rievaulx Abbey hidden in a breath-taking valley in the North York Moors. Take a guided walk tour through the beautiful Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden in the heart of the Broads National Park or travel back in time with a guided tour of Hadrian’s wall in Northumberland.
National Park Experiences is a curated collection that brings the stories of our National Parks to life. Each experience offers an authentic insight into the landscape and special qualities of a National Park.
There’s something truly magical about the craft and skill of dry stone walling. 🪨
These remarkable walls still zigzag for more than 5,000 miles across the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
They’re a lasting reminder of the generations of craftsmanship that have shaped our landscapes, and of the traditional skills that continue to thrive across the UK’s National Parks.
🎥 Yorkshire Dales National Park
#ParkSpotlight #YorkshireDales
History doesn’t only live in museums.
It’s woven into the landscapes of our National Parks. From hillforts and castles to ancient pathways and drystone walls - these are places where heritage isn’t just protected - it’s still part of everyday life. 💚
When we protect these landscapes, we also protect the stories, traditions and history within them.
📍Dartmoor National Park
#NationalParksUK #UKHistory
There`s more to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park than lochs. 🌳
It`s also home to The Great Trossachs Forest – one of the UK`s largest woodland restoration projects.
So far, more than 2 million native trees have been planted, creating richer habitats for wildlife and helping shape healthier landscapes for the future.
And speaking of growing... today the National Park celebrates 24 years of protecting people, places and nature.
Happy Birthday @Lomondtrossachs! 🎉
#ParkSpotlight #UKForests
POV: One of those perfect July evenings.
🌾 Some of the best moments outdoors are the simple ones.
National Parks aren’t just places to visit on holiday. They’re where we connect with nature and ourselves, everyday.
Where’s your favourite place for a summer stroll? 💚
#Wellbeing #UKCountrySide #NationalParksUK
Wales is famous for its waterfalls 💧
Across UK National Parks, rivers have shaped the landscape over thousands of years, creating some of the UK’s most spectacular waterfalls.
From the force of the water to the life and habitats these rivers support, they’re a powerful reminder of the remarkable landscapes our National Parks protect.
📍Bannau Brycheiniog National Park
#ParkSpotlight #UKWaterfalls #BannauBrycheiniog
💭We never forget our first school trip.
For many young people, a day in a National Park is about much more than learning about nature. It`s where confidence grows and curiosity is sparked.
Every year, thousands of children and young people experience outdoor learning across the UK`s National Parks. Time spent in nature can help develop problem-solving skills that last long after the school day ends.
👉Can you remember the first time you visited a National Park?
📸Sutton Bank, North York Moors National Park. Photo by Chris J Parker.
#Education #NationalParksUK
🧠Where in nature do you find peace?
It doesn’t have to be far away.
From quiet benches to big skies, our National Parks offer space to pause, reset and reconnect.
These moments matter for our wellbeing and for the places we all care for. 💚 #NationalParks #Countryside #Wellbeing
The UK is “so boring.” 👀
Meanwhile, your National Parks…
Where nature is being restored, wildlife is returning and people are discovering the outdoors. Repost if you love the National Parks. 💚
#YourNationalParks #NationalParksUK
