NatureViews, Haverfordwest

Whiteford is a quiet, family orientated leisure park with a large children’s adventure playground, site shop and a laundrette. There is no ‘club-house’ or bar on the premises in keeping with the charm and grace of the area http://tourismswanseabay.co.uk/swansea-tourism/whiteford-bay-leisure-park

Rhossili Bay is the first beach to be awarded Britain’s Best Beach by TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice for the second year running, not to mention the 3rd best beach in Europe and 9th best in the world! Rhossili has also been described as ‘The supermodel of British beaches’ by The Independent and has also won accolades from UK Travel Writers and awards for being the best spot to have a picnic! And The Times nominated Rhossili as ‘The UK's No.1 dog-friendly beach’. At low tide, there is a huge expanse of beach. It is possible to walk across the bay to Llangennith or even cross onto the Worms Head. When crossing over to Worm's Head, please report to the Coastwatch Centre before you go. If your return journey is cut off by the high tide, it is very important that you do not attempt to swim back to shore. There is always some sand, even at high tide. It is very popular with surfers. Many different birds nest on the cliffs, so don't forget your binoculars. https://www.visitwales.com/product/1843187

Penllergare Valley Woods is a picturesque landscape hidden away in a steep valley just a stone's throw, yet a world away, from the M4 in north Swansea. With its lakes and waterfalls, terraces, panoramic views, and exotic trees and shrubs, this forgotten Victorian paradise is being slowly restored and brought back to life by The Penllergare Trust. The car park and visitor centre are located just off J47 of the M4. Visitors can enjoy a drink at our Woodland Coffee Shop, with views from the terrace over our Woodland Garden and towards the Upper Lake. From here, visitors can enjoy over 12km of walks, including a stroll along the old Carriage Drive, and also down into the Llan valley where the Dillwyn Llewlyn family, who lived on the estate in the 19th century, created the Upper Lake and the stunning man-made waterfall. Paths and tracks lead on down alongside the afon Llan as it meanders its way to Fforestfach. https://www.visitswanseabay.com/listings/penllergare-valley-woods/

The Gardens at Clyne were established by Admiral Algernon Walker-Heneage-Vivian who owned Clyne from 1921 until his death in 1952. He sponsored plant collecting expeditions overseas, and many of Clynes rhododendrons still bear their original collector's numbers. The Admiral's influence can also be seen in the landscaping, which includes a Japanese Bridge, the Admirals Tower and the Gazebo. https://www.visitwales.com/product/516445

There is something to see throughout the year in the Botanical Gardens. The herbaceous borders are a fantastic sight from late March until mid-October and the variety of glasshouses offer shelter in inclement weather. So even during the harsh winter months, the garden has lots to offer. In 1919 the private estate of the wealthy Vivian family was bought by the Swansea Corporation for use as a public park. In 1926 the Educational Gardens were officially opened as a “collection of economic plants and British flora”. Renamed in 1991 as the Botanical Gardens they contain a renowned double herbaceous border and many mature trees of national importance. In addition, there are fine specimens of rare and exotic plants from around the world as well as a rock garden, herb garden, and the new wildflower garden which opened in 2017. The 40 metre double herbaceous borders were part of the original Educational Gardens created in the 1920’s and their layout is little changed since those times. It is entirely possible that some of the plants found here are divisions of those originally planted. The large aluminium glasshouses were constructed in the early 1990s on the site of the original wooden Tropical and Show glasshouses which had become unsafe. They include a Cactus House with succulents from the desert regions, a Temperate House with plants from Mediterranean-like areas of the world, an Economic House containing plants from around world with various economic uses, and finally a Tropical House with plants from the jungles and rainforests of the world, planted to give a naturalistic setting and kept warm at temperatures above 12° C. https://www.visitswanseabay.com/listings/the-friends-of-the-city-of-swansea-botanical-complex/

Considered by Cadw to be the best Edwardian gardens in Wales, the National Trust’s Dyffryn Gardens comprises of intimate garden rooms, formal lawns and a glasshouse showcasing impressive cacti and orchid collection. Standing at the heart of the estate is the magnificent Dyffryn House, where everyone can play the pianos, enjoy a game of billiards or sit down and admire the breath-taking views. The property has been a popular filming location for Casualty and Dr Who and was featured in the BBC’s 2017 production of ‘Decline and Fall’ starring Eva Longoria and Jack Whitehall. Dyffryn’s arboretum on the east side of the garden is a wild and exotic area, holding one of the most significant collections of trees in the National Trust. Covering 22 acres, there is plenty to discover, with all year round colour and 17 Champion Trees, the largest of their kind in the British Isles. https://www.visitcardiff.com/highlights/dyffryn-gardens/

Perfect for a relaxing stroll or bike ride, the Barrage embankment is situated in a stunning maritime setting and offers spectacular views over Cardiff Bay and the Severn Estuary. Thanks to its flat gradient and lack of steps, it’s accessible for all visitors. A variety of leisure activities take place along the Barrage embankment at the children’s play area, Skate Plaza and adiZone outdoor gym. Visitors can also peruse the free exhibitions, have a sit-down and selfie with The Enormous Crocodile, and take a pit-stop at the RSPB-run Hafren Café. https://www.visitcardiff.com/highlights/cardiff-bay-barrage/

Not strictly in Cardiff, but just five miles off the coast, the stunning island of Flat Holm is a different world with a wealth of history and wildlife. You’ll be amazed at how much there is to discover… Since the Dark Ages, Flat Holm has been a retreat for monks and acted as a sanctuary for Vikings, Anglo-Saxons, silver miners and smugglers. Fortified in Victorian times and again in World War II, it’s perhaps most famous for receiving the first-ever radio message across the water by Guglielmo Marconi in 1897. A day visit by a boat provides you with three to six hours on the island, where you can purchase a self-guided tour pack or go on a free guided tour on certain dates. You can relax and soak up the island’s tranquil atmosphere and spectacular views, and also enjoy a drink at The Gull and Leek, Wales’ most southerly pub. There will also be an opportunity to visit the gift shop, where you can buy postcards, Fairtrade snacks, and a range of souvenirs as a memento of your island experience. https://www.visitcardiff.com/highlights/flat-holm-island/

Take a 12-mile ride, from the coast to the slopes of Snowdon, on North Wales' newest railway. Enjoy the spectacular scenery while our massive locomotives take you past lakes, mountains and forest as they twist and turn on their way to the very heart of Snowdonia itself. http://www.caernarfon.com/place/2/102/

A family home and a great estate. Glorious landscape garden surrounded by parkland with fine 18th-century house Would you give away your family home for your political beliefs? Sir Richard Acland did just that with his Killerton Estate when he gave it to the National Trust in 1944. Today, you'll find a friendly Georgian house set in 2,600 hectares (6,400 acres) of working farmland, woods, parkland, cottages and orchards. There's plenty of calm space in the glorious garden, beautiful year-round with rhododendrons, magnolias, champion trees and formal lawns. You can explore winding paths, climb an extinct volcano, discover an Iron Age hill fort and take in distant views towards Dartmoor. Off the beaten track, you can discover three of Killerton's hidden gems. Nestled by the River Clyst sits Clyston Mill, a working watermill. In the heart of Broadclyst you'll find Marker's, a medieval house steeped in history, and just a stone's throw away from Killerton House is a 1950's post office with a charming cottage garden. https://www.visitexeter.com/things-to-do/national-trust-killerton-house-and-gardens-p131423

Dartmoor National Park is one of the last great wildernesses in the UK with an inspirational landscape of heather-clad moors and rugged tors. Dartmoor was designated as a National Park in 1951, a vast tract of the largely untamed countryside of huge richness and diversity stretching across 368 square miles. It's a landscape quite unlike any other, populated by lofty granite tors, mysterious hut circles and standing stones, ancient woodlands, sturdy clapper bridges, rushing streams, Dartmoor ponies, bustling stannary towns and secluded villages. This unique area has so much to see and do, but first of all, you must experience Dartmoor by actually getting out onto it, the National Park is most easily accessed by car, although there are options by bus if it’s a particular village you would like to see in general there is little public transport on to the moors. Walk, ride, cycle, canoe or even fish once you are on Dartmoor so that you can soak up its very special atmosphere. Another Dartmoor activity that has become very popular with families is letterboxing - you can find out more about this unique activity at the High Moorland Visitor Centre at Princetown. Dartmoor is also a wonderful landscape for you to enjoy Geocaching, https://www.visitexeter.com/things-to-do/dartmoor-national-park-p234193

Pinces Gardens stands on the site of William Lucombe's nursery founded in 1720, most famous for his development of the Lucombe Oak. The nursery became Lucombe, Pince & Co. in the 1820s. By the 1880s the nurserymen had established the 45-yard long wisteria arch as the centrepiece of the garden, and a position that it retains today. Exeter City Council has managed the site since 1912. Today, the site is home to Pinces Gardens Bowling Club and the Pinces Gardens Croquet Club. The annual blossom of the wisteria arch attracts visitors every spring. The rose garden, planted in 2008, continues the Victorian theme of the garden. https://www.visitexeter.com/things-to-do/pinces-gardens-p763593

Devon Sculpture Park is the UK's leading smaller-scale rewilding project and environmental art centre, just a few miles south of Exeter City. Capability Brown gardens & main exhibition open Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am - 4 pm. https://www.visitexeter.com/things-to-do/devon-sculpture-park-p2720143

Bovisand beach is a sheltered bay of yellow sand with cliffs either side. Located within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is popular with locals and families. There is a large expanse of flat sand when the tide is out, ideal for ball games and warms the water with the incoming tide, and is perfect for swimming and snorkelling. On a good day, you can see across to Plymouth sound, and there are plenty of walks to enjoy along the coastline. The beach is situated on the South West Coast Path. Walk north walk to Plymouth (5 miles) or, a little further, walk south-east to the River Yealm passing other beautiful bays - Heybrook and Wembury. https://www.visitplymouth.co.uk/things-to-do/bovisand-beach-p432713

No trip to Devon is complete without visiting The Donkey Sanctuary. There’s a tranquil corner of the Jurassic Coast near Sidmouth that hundreds of donkeys call home, and they’re all waiting to meet you. This free-to-visit, the award-wining attraction has something special to offer, whether you’re looking for quality time with the kids, or somewhere calming to kick back with coffee and cake. Explore everything the sanctuary has to offer, from award-winning gardens and scenic coast path walks to engaging exhibits and losing yourself in the maze - all year round, whatever the weather. With activities, trails, tours, talks and demonstrations, there’s so much to explore with your own herd. Friendly dogs on leads are welcome too! And there are lots of family events and donkey experiences throughout the year, including overnight camping if you fancy a ‘Bray and Stay’! Take sanctuary in the Taste of the West award-winning restaurant and enjoy fresh, local, seasonal produce while soaking in the unparalleled coast and country views. Hearty breakfasts, luscious lunches and tempting afternoon treats are dished up daily - best served with friends, family and fabulous views. https://www.visitexeter.com/things-to-do/the-donkey-sanctuary-p125753

The Quarry is Shrewsbury's beautiful, 29-acre parkland, encircled by the majestic loop of the River Severn. The Quarry has been Shrewsbury's most important site for recreation since the 16th Century. It still provides the perfect place to relax, enjoy walks, picnic, fish along the banks of the River Severn, or just let off steam. At the heart of the Quarry lies the Dingle, a floral masterpiece cultivated by world-renowned gardener Percy Thrower, who served as Parks Superintendent for 28 years. It's a delightful sunken garden landscaped with alpine borders, brilliant bedding plants, shrubbery and charming water features. For two days each August The Quarry comes alive with more than 3 million blooms, as the park hosts Shrewsbury Flower Show. There is also show jumping, arena entertainment and top military bands, as well as a spectacular firework display. https://originalshrewsbury.co.uk/visit/quarry-park

Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens’ dramatic landscape, combined with large-scale exotic, sub-tropical planting, provides the backdrop to contemplative and inspiring art by internationally renowned artists. A major attraction near Penzance in West Cornwall, Tremenheere can be found in a beautiful sheltered valley, overlooking St Michael’s Mount, with woods and a stream, interwoven with an evolving programme of contemporary artwork. The creations of artists such as James Turrell, David Nash, Richard Long, Tim Shaw and Peter Randall-Page interact with the setting to create site-specific permanent work, which harmonises with the landscape. Within this breath-taking location, Tremenheere hosts its sculpture garden, gallery, shop, nursery and restaurant. Tremenheere is one of the most unique all-year-round gardens to visit in Cornwall. The very favoured microclimate of kindly winter temperatures and shelter from the wind allow exotic and half-hardy plants to flourish. The planting schemes are appropriate to the varying individual habitats, but carry a unifying theme of sculptural forms, textures and colours, which complement what nature has already provided. https://www.visitcornwall.com/attraction/tremenheere-sculpture-gardens

At low tide access to St Michael's Mount is by way of a granite causeway, once walked by pilgrims. Whilst at high tide a gentle boat ride takes visitors to the historic castle on the island. Simply relaxing and soaking up the atmosphere of this enchanting beach is pleasant enough but with windsurfing, kitesurfing, jet skiing and sailing all on offer there is plenty to keep even the most energetic busy. The long sandy beach is very safe, and a short walk along the sand dunes will enable you to find a private sun trap. There are rock pools to explore around Chapel Rock and Marazion Harbour, and a well-equipped play park is situated just above the beach. Facilities for sailing and windsurfing are available, with a windsurfing school situated at the far end of Marazion beach. https://www.visitcornwall.com/beaches/lifeguards-seasonal/west-cornwall/marazion/marazion-beach

Stroll across the granite causeway where a legendary giant once walked and follow the footsteps of pilgrims. Boat hop to an island where modern life meets layers of history, discover a medieval castle, a sub-tropical paradise and a close-knit island community. Delve into the history of a fortress, a priory, a harbour and a home. Stray from the mainland on foot or by boat and get up close to the beguiling beauty of the castle-topped isle standing proud in Mount’s Bay. Come ashore for a family outing, a tour of the castle or a garden visit. Scale the fairytale turrets for dazzling views. Listen to live music on the village green and tuck into fresh local food in the Island Café or the Sail Loft Restaurant. Infuse your senses with colour and scent in the unique sub-tropical gardens basking in the mild climate and salty breeze. Clinging to granite slopes the terraced beds tier steeply down to the ocean’s edge, boasting tender exotics from places such as Mexico, the Canary Islands and South Africa. https://www.visitcornwall.com/things-to-do/attractions/west-cornwall/marazion/st-michaels-mount

Perranuthnoe beach is located on the south coast around a mile to the east of Marazion, with fine views of Cornwall's jewel, St Michael's Mount. At low tide Perranuthnoe is a sandy beach with some shingle and at high tide, the beach is mostly claimed by the sea. The beach is a popular one with surfers. Known by locals as Perran Sands, the beach can be confused with the beach of the same name at Perranporth on the north coast. https://www.visitcornwall.com/beaches/good-beach-guide/west-cornwall/penzance/perranuthnoe-beach

For those of you with a nose for gardening, this horticultural hotspot is home to walled gardens that are crammed with tender exotic plants from all over the globe and five sections of a productive kitchen garden. This historical garden was once residence to the Cornish Arundell family but was landscaped by Sir Rose Price of Penzance. Price planted conifers with elm, oak, ash and beech, as well as nine-walled gardens whose ramped beds remain a feature to this day. When the estate came into the hands of the Bolitho family, they built the present carriageway and developed the gardens with the help of their cousins, the Caerhays. Seeds sent back from plant-hunting missions were expertly hybridised by the head gardener, Alfred Creek, who was responsible for planting a stunning series of rhododendrons. Alongside the intriguing evidence of yesteryear, now you can follow a stream garden through the valley, which was planted later in the 1950s with skunk cabbage, meconopsis, primulas and other bog plants. Escape to the intimate tranquillity of this woodland garden, and from the rich collection of rhododendrons, magnolias and camellias, meander up to a terrace boasting beautiful views of Mount's Bay to The Lizard. https://www.visitcornwall.com/things-to-do/attractions/west-cornwall/penzance/trengwainton-garden

St Stephen’s Green Park is a historical park and garden, located in the centre of Dublin city. Cared for by the Office of Public Works, the park is an important public resource in the area, and provides an oasis of green calm in the middle of a bustling city. Its four centuries of history are eventful and complex, involving such important figures as Arthur Guinness, 1st Baron Ardilaun, and Countess Constance Markievicz. The park itself hosts a large number of important sculptural monuments to Irish history. Many species of birds and plants also call the park their home. Public facilities at St Stephen’s Green Park include a playground and a garden for the visually impaired. http://ststephensgreenpark.ie

Lamorna is the place where the 2013 movie Summer in February was filmed. The cove has a small pebble beach beside the harbour and quay with lots of large boulders, especially at low tide. The cove is on the South West Coast Path between Porthcurno and Mousehole. A nice quiet spot for swimming and a good spot for scuba diving, though no lifeguard cover provided. https://www.visitcornwall.com/beaches/west-cornwall/lands-end/lamorna-cove-beach

The gardens cover 15 acres. The Tropical House has a lily pool and lush tropical vegetation. Palms, tree ferns and orchids are displayed in the Sub-tropical House. Outside there is colourful bedding on the Terrace and a tour of the Gardens includes: Rhododendron walks, Rose Garden, Rock Garden, a collection of over 200 trees, Herb and Cottage Gardens, Museum, children's adventure playground, children's discovery garden, aviaries and National Bonsai collection. Sculpture Trail, plant centre, gift shop and refreshment pavilion. https://visitbirmingham.com/things-to-see-and-do/birmingham-botanical-gardens-and-glasshouses-p209761

See the best views of the Liverpool Waterfront on the world famous Mersey Ferry with our 50-minute River Explorer Cruise. Guided by expert commentary throughout the cruise you can sit back, relax and take in the captivating views of the UNESCO World Heritage waterfront. River Explorer Cruise tickets also include admission to U-boat Story at Woodside terminal. Plus, when you buy a combined River Explorer Cruise and Spaceport ticket you can hop off the ferry at Seacombe Ferry Terminal and visit Spaceport. Here you can enjoy our Sci-Fi Icons exhibition- a private collection of Star Wars memorabilia from one of the UK's biggest collectors and experience our amazing 360° dome show. Following your visit to Spaceport, a short hop back on the River Explorer Cruise takes you to Woodside Ferry Terminal to visit the fantastic U-boat Story. Discover an amazing and unique insight into life on-board U-534 through the exhibition's interactive and audio-visual exhibits. https://www.visitliverpool.com/things-to-do/mersey-ferries-p408461

Upton Country Park in Poole has over 140 acres of beautiful award-winning gardens, open parkland, woodland and shoreline, with stunning Georgian Grade II* listed Upton House as the centrepiece. Something for everyone to enjoy, whatever the season, so come along and see what has made Upton Country Park one of Poole’s premier attractions! The Country Park is open seven days a week from 8 am – 6 pm (winter timetable) or 8 am – 9 pm (summer timetable). Winners of two Dorset Tourism Awards 2017 - Venue & Busines of the Year and Dog-Friendly Business of the Year. https://www.bournemouth.co.uk/things-to-do/upton-country-park-p140023

Brownsea Island is a wildlife sanctuary that’s easy to reach but feels like another world from the moment you step ashore. There is wildlife to spot and woodland to explore; outdoor activities to try and beaches to picnic on; birds to watch and trails to wander. Sample the scouting life at the Outdoor Centre; spend a night under the stars on our Eco Adventure Camping experience, or learn about intriguing tales of survival and adventure at the Trading Post. Wildlife spotters can follow waymarked routes through a wealth of different habitats from the sheltered lagoon and sweeping shorelines, to woodlands and heathland. As you wander, keep an eye out for the famous red squirrel. https://www.bournemouth.co.uk/things-to-do/brownsea-island-national-trust-p2360813

This 21-acre park was acquired as a gift from Alderman Fletcher Moss in 1914. Renowned for their botanical beauty, the gardens contain many antiquated and unusual plants and flowers. The park has retained many of its original features such as the rock and heather gardens, and there is an Alpine house in the gardens adjacent to Fletcher Moss. Together they form a picturesque, tranquil haven for visitors. The park also provides an excellent setting for the annual summer Park Play Performance. https://www.visitmanchester.com/things-to-see-and-do/fletcher-moss-park-p84881

There’s nothing quite like a day at the seaside, and Blackpool is one of the best beach resorts you will find in the UK. It was even recently awarded its first ever Blue Flag, putting it on par with other world renowned sites including the Mediterranean Sea and the Pacific coastline. http://www.visitblackpool.com/detail/blackpool-beach-275980/

The 390-acre Stanley Park is a landmark in its own right, with a magical blend of architecture, horticulture and recreation. Stanley Park abounds in wildlife and its features appeal to the naturalist, the plant lover or one who would do nothing more than relax in elegant surroundings. Delightful horticultural displays can be found throughout the park. Don’t miss the Italian gardens, water fountains, statues, rose gardens and Remembrance Garden. Admire the impressive Cocker Tower - a memorial to Blackpool’s first Mayor Dr William Cocker, the bandstand and ornamental bridges over the lake. Stanley Park has a long sporting history and offers the best facilities in resort from a game of pitch and putt to a round of golf, a trim trail, athletic arena and a sports club for all keep-fit enthusiasts, plus play facilities for the children. http://www.visitblackpool.com/detail/stanley-park-17396/

Bradgate Park was first enclosed as a deer park around 800 years ago. It provides 830 acres of publicly accessible countryside close to Leicester City Centre. The Park offers a wild and rugged landscape with dramatic rocky outcrops and gnarled old oak trees, many of which are well over 500 years old. The landscape offers some of the finest views, and is rich in change throughout the seasons. https://www.bradgatepark.org/bradgate-park

Victoria Park is a fine green space next to the University of Leicester campus. The centrepiece of the park is the magnificent memorial arch, built to commemorate the dead of the First World War. The arch was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, as were the beautiful wrought iron gates at the parks Peace Walk and London Road entrances. The area served as the city's racecourse until 1883; upon the racing find a new home at Leicester Racecourse in Oadby, the area was transformed and is now a peaceful retreat from the buzz of the city. The park has areas of formal flowerbeds as well as winding pathways shaded by avenues of trees– perfect for finding some shade and enjoying a picnic or a good book on a summer’s day. For more active visitors, the park is home to a bowling green, croquet area, 4 tennis courts, football and rugby pitches, a floodlit Astro pitch and an outdoor gym. https://www.visitleicester.info/see-and-do/victoria-park-p708151

Here you will find the UK's only double track, main line heritage railway – and the only place in the world where full size steam engines can be seen passing each other! Trains run every weekend of the year, bank holidays and selected week days in the summer months. There are four stations on the line, all of which have are wheelchair accessible: Loughborough Central Station (LE11 1RW), Quorn & Woodhouse Station (LE12 8AG), Rothley Station (LE7 7LD) and Leicester North Station (LE4 3BR). For a first class experience, why book onto the restaurant car service which provides a five course meal whilst travelling between Loughborough and Leicester? Or you can make your childhood dreams come true and try out the ‘Drive a Locomotive’ experience, where you can take the regulator on a mighty steam locomotive or notch up on a powerful diesel. With all this as well as special events, Great Central Railway is a great day out for all the family! https://www.visitleicester.info/see-and-do/great-central-railway-p710541