Appreciation reflections
As 2020 draws to a close, I’ve been thinking about what things I’ve really come to appreciate during this eventful year. Exploring the UK was one, especially discovering parks, forests and beaches (some for the first time). In this post, I’ll be sharing some spots I managed to visit (& I would highly recommend) adding to your own lists for 2021 — if you enjoy travelling of course!
The New Forest, Hampshire/ Wiltshire
Sometimes I find it hard to describe the New Forest because it depends where you are / or go. My bestie and I drove through the villages of Burley, Sway and Brockenhurst and we noticed the large expanses of open heathland (‘sandy land covered in heather and low scrub’ New Forest National Park, n.d). There were plenty of walking paths (accessible mainly via car) to explore.
My fave moment has to be watching the sunset, along a horizon of so many trees. And also, spending a few hours on the coast at Milford-on-Sea.
What surprised me most on this trip was the free-roaming horses on the roadside. So be just be mindful when you are driving or walking…
Bournemouth, Dorset
Again travelling with my bestie, we decided to head to the beach one hot summers day. But we wanted to go somewhere a bit quiet, so we headed to Alum Chine beach which was perfect!
My fave moment was when my bestie spotted signs to a Tropical Garden, where we could pretend for a moment we were abroad. The surrounding palm trees and other foliage gave off tropical vibes.
What surprised me most on this trip was that Old Harry’s Rock walk was only 30 mins away! We didn’t have time to go there on our day trip but it’s good to know for next time I’m in Bournemouth!
Brecon Beacons, South Wales
As my friend and I were planning our trip to Brecon, we both decided that we wanted to see a waterfall. We ended up going to Henrhyd Falls, the highest waterfall in South Wales!
My fave moment was when we found some benches in the village of Coelbren and just chilled in the sun!
What surprised me most was that there’s only one route from Cardiff to Henryhd Falls, so just be mindful of this if you are visiting on a busy day.
Malham Cove, Yorkshire Dales
One of my friends convinced me to head North for a camping trip. And if I ignore the daddy longlegs, it was quite positive a first time experience.
My fave moment was when we were trapped on a road because a herd of cows had escaped from their farm. There was literally no escape for us, as we were surrounded by private farmland. Luckily the farmer arrived shortly to guide the cows back onto the farm.
What surprised me most was the importance of having good direction (or being with someone who does!). Because I’m not sure I would’ve made it to Malham Cove haha
Happisburgh, Norfolk
I was only in Happisburgh for a few hours with my sis but it was lovely to be on a more secluded beach.
My fave moment was when my sis noticed a seal in the water!
What surprised me most was how friendly people were. Everyone we passed said hello. Although, I’m not sure if that’s the norm there or because we looked like tourists.
As much as I enjoy travelling abroad, I’ve realised over this year that there are some gems in the UK that I shouldn’t overlook. Here’s to another year of seeing more of the UK…
