Northumberland Coast

Oh, the beauty of this coast: fine sand beaches arc along the North Sea; spectacular castles stand guard on the shoreline; natural glories, pretty villages and jolly pubs abound. Puffins and seals enthrall visitors on the Farne Islands, and frazzled urbanites unwind while inhaling the calming monastic airs of Lindisfarne. A magical mix of mystery and merriment.

Second place: Mull, Inner Hebrides

For those seeking remote wildlife wonders, this is the real deal. The second-largest island of the Inner Hebrides offers gorgeous bays, rocky peaks and verdant slopes. It’s home to white-tailed eagles, red deer, and otters. Dolphins, minke whales and basking sharks can all be sighted in its waters.