This land is our land

Charlie Bullough looks at a poll to find Britain's most picturesque views

T he UK is blessed with some stunning scenery and how we have missed those beautiful sights over the last 12 months. From the white cliffs of Dover to the summit of Ben Nevis, we all have a particular view that is our favourite vantage point. Government ‘stay at home’ guidance may have opened our eyes as to what is on our own doorstep, but many have been yearning to be allowed to explore our national treasures once more. The road map out of lockdown may feel like a long and winding road but the prospect of safe domestic travel looks to be on the horizon. Train operator LNER (London North Eastern Railway) has been canvassing this feeling of what we have been missing and it has conducted a poll to discover Britain’s most stunning views. Its top 30 results confirm just what a rich tapestry of history, countryside, cityscapes and calming waterways we possess. At the top of the list were Loch Ness and Lake Windermere, which both polled 27 per cent of the vote. Snapping at their heels were the London Eye (26 per cent), the Tower of London, St Ives Bay in Cornwall and Ingleton in the Yorkshire Dales, which all scored 24 per cent. David Horne, managing director at LNER, said: “It’s clear to see that as a nation we’re proud to be home to some amazing views, ranging from natural beauty like Loch Ness and the Yorkshire Dales to great cities like London and York. Although restrictions are in place for now, it is not difficult to see why so many of us will be looking to explore the beauty of Britain once it is safe to do so.” According to the research, two thirds of Britons have desperately missed being able to visit UK beauty spots during the past year. While 58 percent hope to visit their favourite UK destinations as soon as restrictions are lifted, and it is safe to do so. The best view chart reveals a plethora of places which people long to see again. The Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, which was a striking backdrop to the Game of Thrones TV saga, is one such example. Coastal locations such as Durdle Door in Dorset, St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall and Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland also figured prominently. But the seaside was just one aspect of our admiration. Some of the other best views included Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh (15 per cent), Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland (12 per cent) and the Three Sisters in Glencoe Valley, Scotland (11 per cent). Nearly half of those polled believe Britain has some of the most beautiful views in the world. And two thirds of the nation have British beauty spots and destinations on their travel bucket lists. The research also showed that 77 percent of Brits hoping to holiday this summer are intending to take a UK staycation first before planning a trip abroad. LNER boss Mr Horne added: “When people can travel again, it is pleasing to see that the staycation should return thanks to the ease of travelling around the UK, and an enjoyable, safe journey being a key priority. “We are not surprised to see destinations on the LNER route feature highly in the popular vote as we are blessed with some of the most picturesque spots in the UK. With over 900 miles of track to explore, we’re looking forward to helping people discover their favourite views again soon.” So where will you be making a beeline for?

Clockwise from top left: St Michael’s Mount by christelgraceroche; Stonehenge by Zainehsannn; Loch Ness by Camilla Marcon; Bamburgh Castle by Alan Howe and The Giant’s Causeway by Jackie Hide.