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NINE OF THE UK’S MOST EPIC ADVENTURE SPOTS

Chosen by some of our favourite outdoor photographers

PEN Y FAN, Wales

Chosen by Tyler Mills

Why do you love this place?

“The main reason I love Pen Y Fan is the view. It’s incredible – as one of the tallest mountains in Wales, on a clear day you can see as far as the Bristol Channel and Gower Peninsula. And, if you’re lucky enough, you’ll also see the roaming wild ponies.”

What’s your favourite way to explore it?

“I love to summit Pen Y fan via the Horseshoe Trail. I’ve taken several routes up to the summit, but this walk offers a more scenic experience, especially as you pass through the Upper Neuadd Reservoir.  The walk takes around five hours from start to finish.”

What about for first-timers?

“Hands down, it has to be from Storey Arms and Pont Ar Daf carpark. This is the classic route up to PYF and is a very manageable four-mile round. Although it’s the easiest and quickest way up to the summit, it’s still packed with plenty of ‘wow factor’ views too. For example, when you hit the ridgeline and home-straight to PYF, you’re met with a stunning panoramic.”

What to pack for your adventure?

“If, like me, you’re setting off before sunrise to get the best of Pen Y Fan, pack some gloves. When you sit and watch the sun come up, you’ll really feel the temperature in your fingers. And given that most of your hike will be in the dark, bring a torch too. Lastly, stick a carrot or two in your pocket. For the horses, of course.”

Best photo opportunity?

“The classic shot is from the summit looking towards Cribyn – another one of the tallest mountains in South Wales – as the sun rises. The best advice I can give you is to arrive earlier than you think. You’ll appreciate the extra time when setting up and finding a composition that works. A popular composition to start with is using the trail down as a leading line, just as morning is breaking.”

Favourite place for a bite to eat afterwards?

“If you’re a burger person, get yourself to HILLS in Brecon. I’m yet to see or hear a bad review.”

 

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BEN A'AN, TROSSACHS, SCOTLAND

Chosen by Daryl Walker

Why do you love this place?

“This wee hill isn't a mountain, but damn it’s a tough wake-up call! A little effort here gives you a great reward.”

What’s your favourite way to explore it?

“I like exploring here at sunrise - being one of Scotland’s favourite hikes, it’s the best way to avoid the crowds. Start out from Loch Achray and park in the designated car park (charges apply), then head north and begin your gruelling 40-minute leg workout as you ascend hundreds of steps to the summit.”

What about for first-timers?

“Unfortunately, there is only one trail up to Ben A'an, but at only 340m, it’s relatively accessible to most. Take your time on the steps and stop to reap the rewards at the top – I can’t think of many better views after such a short hike. To descend, you simply follow the trail you came up, but take your time to admire the views across Loch Katrine and Loch Achray on your way.”

What to pack for your adventure? 

“A flask of water, a supportive pair of hiking shoes and good spirits for taking on the many steps to the summit. It's also always best to bring a waterproof no matter the weather – you’re in Scotland, after all…”

Best photo opportunity?

“The most popular photo is of the triangular rocky summit. Standing on this peak is an effort and you need to take care, but in light winds, it is pretty easy. For me, the best view is taken with a drone, where you frame yourself inside the Loch.”

Favourite place for a bite to eat afterwards?

“You don’t have many pubs and restaurants out here, so it is best to bring your own lunch. Leave your sandwiches in the car and enjoy the views of Loch Katrine or Loch Achray with them in hand once you’re back at the car park. The views are better there than in any pub I know.”

 

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LOUGHRIGG FELL, LAKE DISTRICT, ENGLAND

Chosen by Amelia Le Brun

Why do you love this place?

“Even if you head up there and get nothing but full sunshine, or solid wind and rain, I think it just sums up the Lakes so perfectly. A few tarns, picture-perfect country cottages and the distant view of rolling fells and peaks - what’s not to love. This was the first sunrise I ever got when I lived in the Lake District, and with the dreamiest conditions. A still and clear autumnal morning saw the most stunning inversion that seemed to last for ages.”

What’s your favourite way to explore it?

“There are a couple of car parks suitable for starting this hike - both White Moss car park and Rydal Water car park work fine. From both of these, there is a small gap in the wall along the road with a path down to River Rothay. Head through the woods and follow the path until you break through. From here, head right and start following the track and steps up the side of the fell. Then you just have to keep walking until you reach the summit. At the summit it’s really up to you as to where you head from here, but it’s well worth taking the time to explore the variety of views from the top.”

What about for first-timers?
“This is undoubtedly one of the best hikes for beginners. It’s tough on the legs and has a couple of false summits (which can be killer if you’re racing up for sunrise) but other than that, it isn’t technical and is mostly paved. The views are surprisingly good for a fell with less than 500 metres of elevation.”

What to pack for your adventure? 

“I always take a down jacket – honestly, the amount of times I have gone up sweating, only to freeze at the top. Layering is super important, and a decent down jacket makes for a much happier morning. A decent pair of hiking boots is essential too. You can hike up in trainers and I have done before, but the many hidden bogs and tiny ponds have tripped me up in the past. As well as this, the rocks can get very slippery. No one wants to fall on their ass do they. Lastly, take a flask of coffee. When I hike a fell or mountain, I’m going up for photos, but also to take some time to admire and enjoy the views. After you’ve run around getting your shots it’s nice to have a hot mug to warm your hands on and relax with whilst looking over the view.”

Best photo opportunity?

“The one shot that is an absolute must is the view stretching over to Elterwater and Loughrigg Tarn, nestled at the bottom of the fell with the surrounding mountains beyond, is the Lake District summarised in one photo. Not everyone is a morning person, I get that, but my best advice is to get out there on a clear cold morning for the best chance of a cloud inversion. It’ll add a certain type of magic to your photo and time there.”

Favourite place for a bite to eat after the descent?

“When I took my girlfriend up last autumn, I introduced her to Chesters By The River. This is honestly the best place for a cracking breakfast, brunch, lunch or coffee. Nestled by the river in Skelwith Bridge, they serve delicious vegetarian food and cakes. The food is off the charts! A stone’s throw from Ambleside, it’s very popular so be prepared to wait, but it is well worth it.”

PIXIES COVE, CORNWALL, ENGLAND

Chosen by Tom Young

Why do you love this place?

“A huge chunk of my childhood was spent exploring the south coast of Cornwall, and this spot in particular is one that I still head for throughout the year, every year. It’s a magical place, and an adventure wonderland.”

What’s your favourite way to explore it?

“Chucking on a wetsuit and exploring the coastline by swimming and climbing your way around.”

What about for first-timers?

“Pixies Cove is on the South West Coast Path, so it’s relatively accessible with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the surroundings if you’re starting to feel it in your legs.”

What to pack for your adventure?

“A wetsuit for sure - the crystal blue sea is way too inviting in the sunnier months. A decent pair of walking boots will help you stay upright on the rugged - and depending on how close to the sea you get, slippery - terrain. Lastly, a camera to capture the memories you make here.”

Best photo opportunity?

“The view is stunning in every direction, especially towards the world-famous St Michael’s Mount.”

Favourite place for a bite to eat afterwards?

“The Victoria Inn in Perranuthnoe. Really, really decent tucker in a wicked old pub.”

SLIEVE BEARNAGH, MOURNE MOUNTAINS, NORTHERN IRELAND

Chosen by Joe Ladrigan

Why do you love this place?

“Slieve Bearnagh is certainly one of the most interesting summits in the Mournes. It’s crowned by a large granite tor that makes for a great summit scramble for those so inclined. I have spent time up here in all weather conditions, but it was a summer camp with my brother and friends for a sunrise shoot that was the most memorable.”

What’s your favourite way to explore it?

“Start at the Trassey Car Park and head for the saddle known as Hare’s Gap, which is bisected by the Mourne Wall. From here begin the steep and continuous climb, following the wall right to the huge summit tor. It’s an enjoyable walk, but the steep and rugged terrain and six-mile distance makes it one for those with a bit of hill-walking experience and a good level of fitness.”

What about for first-timers?

“The walk into the Hare’s Gap is relatively moderate for most walkers, up to the stile at the Mourne Wall. Alternatively, the nearby Tollymore Forest is must-see for anyone visiting the area.”

What to pack for your adventure?

“On top of the essential food and drink, and safety, navigation and waterproof gear, just below the summit and in the shelter of the large summit tor is a magnificent camping spot. It’s more than worth carrying the extra camping gear up for a sunrise breakfast, surrounded by sea and rounded peaks looking down on the sleepy towns below. Good gloves are a must too.”

Best photo opportunity?

“From the summit of Slieve Bearnagh looking across beautiful views as far as the eye can see, before the land melts into Irish Sea in the distance. If possible, a strategically placed mate on top of the lower tor will really show off the scale, too.”

Favourite place for a bite to eat afterwards?

Café Mauds or The Strand in Newcastle Town, where you’re getting great views of the surrounding beach and summit of Slieve Donard to go with your great food.”

OLD MAN OF STORR, ISLE OF SKYE, SCOTLAND

Chosen by Danielle Siobhan

Why do you love this place?

“This amazing rock formation was created by an ancient landslide, leaving one of the most photographed and iconic landscapes in the world. It’s also by far one of the most beautiful places that I’ve ever seen the sun rise. Even though the cutting wind nearly blew us off the slippery sections of the trail on our last visit, as soon as the sun started to rise and the views start to appear, we forgot all about how numb our faces felt.”

What’s your favourite way to explore it?

“In October 2019, I took the main route with five other photographers from the roadside car park to catch the sunrise from the summit. We started walking at 3am in the pitch dark, but as the track is very clear we found our way to the top within an hour, leaving us more than enough time for us to find perfect spots for our tripods.”

What about for first-timers?

“This trip had been my first time visiting the Old Man of Storr, so I can highly recommend the same trail we took. Given its short distance many people agree that this hike is doable in trainers, but the wind can be strong and tracks can get slippery, so I would always recommend hiking shoes.”

What to pack for your adventure? 

“Water and snacks are a must. It won’t take you long to get there but once you arrive, you’ll want to stay for a long as possible. It’s the same reason I always take more clothing than I need too – I don’t want to feel cold or uncomfortable when I’m enjoying the view! Finally, obviously, a camera. I can promise you the views are worth capturing, whether you’re a photographer or not.”

Best photo opportunity?

“The Old Man of Storr is as beautiful up close as it is from afar. One of my favourite images was shot using a 70-200mm lens at 200mm. I have always loved details and I’m probably better known for my more abstract landscape photography. While other photographers like to focus on the Old Man of Storr within the wider landscape, I chose to shoot on a telephoto lens to compress the image, drawing the distant mountains closer to the foreground, creating a beautiful layered effect.”

Favourite place for a bite to eat afterwards?

“The Skye Blue Gallery for tea, coffee and cakes. We sat here for a quick bite and chatted with a fellow photographer who sells her prints there. Worth a visit to support the local businesses!”

Portrait credit to: Abe Neihum & Brian Riley Troy

HELVELLYN, LAKE DISTRICT, ENGLAND

Chosen by Ryan Lomas

Why do you love this place?

“I love to chase rugged and intimidating landscapes and, in my opinion, there is no other mountain in the Lake District that brings such an other-worldly feeling like Helvellyn. The best thing you can take away from a mountain is the appreciation of how small you are, and Helvellyn is great at emphasising this level insignificance through its scale and age.”

What’s your favourite way to explore it?

If you're looking for phenomenal views, a good challenge and an unforgettable day out on the hills, Helvellyn will always deliver. My favourite way to summit is via Striding Edge. It’s a must-do route, and the most popular Grade 1 scramble in the Lakes for good reason – it’s an exhilarating knife edge that’s only for those with a head for heights.”

What about for first-timers?

“The route starting from Thirlmere is a much easier, less intensive hike, in which a head for heights is not as necessary. From Thirlmere the route approaches the summit via Helvellyn Gill and Lower Man and skips out both Striding Edge and Swirral Edge.”

What to pack for your adventure?

“Being based in the Lake District and having hiked here countless times, trust me when I say safety and navigation equipment is essential. Getting caught out by the fog without it can leave you helpless and massively disorientated. Other obvious bits include your camera, food, water and a solid backpack to carry everything in, but if you’re a photographer, take a shopping bag too. It adds a layer of protection to your camera when the unexpected showers roll in and means you don’t have to miss out on those big moody Lake District landscapes.”

Best photo opportunity?

“Looking down on Striding Edge and Red Tarn from the summit is a timeless view. My advice as a photographer is to capture what stands out to you the most at that moment – you want that image to tell a thousand stories and remind you of the fun you had up there.”

Favourite place for a bite to eat afterwards?

“The White Lion in Patterdale is my top shout for some post-hike fuel.”

BEINN A’CHRULAISTE, GLENCOE, SCOTLAND

Chosen by Aimee and Sophie Mcilvennie

Why do you love this place?

“Glencoe is one of our favourite places in Scotland, offering some of the best mountains and banger shots, as well as the chance to spot the local deer. There is something for everyone. Beinn a’Chrulaiste is often overlooked, but it will give you the most incredible views of the Glencoe valley and across to the mighty Buachaille Etive Mòr.”

What’s your favourite way to explore it?

“We last hiked this mountain in February 2020, after heavy snowfall. It was a glorious day; visibility was good and there was barely any wind. We parked at the layby at Altnafeadh and heading up the north side of the mountain. It is a relatively easy climb – it’s not too steep and there’s no scrambling required. The hike in total takes around 3-4 hours and covers 11km or 6.75 miles.”

What about for first-timers?

“Beinn a'Chrulaiste stands at 857 metres making it a Corbett. It is a fairly short hill walk over mostly heathery ground, but paths are intermittent and can be boggy in places. In winter conditions crampons and ice axe are recommended so for first timers this one is best attempted in the summer months.”

What to pack for your adventure? 

“The hiking here will put your boots to the test so bring a good pair, as well as your camera for snapping all those bangers Glencoe has to offer. You might want to bring a head torch, too, in case you spend way too long at the top admiring the views!”

Best photo opportunity?

“It would have to be a shot across to Buachaille Etive Mòr! You won't get better views of this magnificent mountain than from Beinn a’Chrulaiste.”

Favourite place for a bite to eat afterwards?

“The Clachaig Inn, located in the heart of Glencoe, is the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a day of hiking. Treat yourself to some well-earned grub!”

WHINLATTER FOREST, LAKE DISTRICT, ENGLAND

Chosen by Hannah Cooke

Why do you love this place?

“Whinlatter offers everything I love on my hikes. It’s got some elevation, tall forest, alternate terrain and spectacular views. I think it’s a great route to get us back into the swing of things when we venture out once again.”

What’s your favourite way to explore it?

“The Seat How Summit Trail is a circular walk of 5.6km. It can take up to three hours at a leisurely pace, including the time spent picnicking at the viewpoint.”

What about for first-timers?

“Within the forest there are plenty of different routes for people wanting a less strenuous walk and those with children. A couple of them will lead you past small streams and a little waterfall, too.”

What to pack for your adventure?

“I always pack my camera, a snack or packed lunch to enjoy at the top. But most importantly, my dog Rango.”

Best photo opportunity?

“My favourite shots from this particular walk tend to come on the foggier days, from in amongst the tall pine trees and of the large vista you see at the viewpoint.”

Favourite place for a bite to eat afterwards?

“You can find a cafe at the car park near Whinlatter Forest, but if you’ve just finished an early-morning hike get over to Keswick Town and head for my favourite breakfast spot called The Chalet.”

 

 

If you’re up for exploring further afield, check out these hit-lists for France , the Italy and AustriaGermany and Switzerland.