Planning a staycation? If it’s nature on the agenda, there are a few UK regions that are known for their breathtaking beauty.

According to a recent survey by the expert team at Which?Travel, the Antrim Coast and Glens in Northern Ireland is the UK’s third prettiest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

While the Isles of Scilly and the Northumberland Coast took the top spot, the Antrim Coast is an incredibly gorgeous place.

The Antrim Coast and Glens scored five stars for scenery while it took four stars for wildlife, peace and quiet and attractions.

Rathlin Island sits just off the coast of County Antrim and it’s home to tens of thousands of seabirds including puffins and common guillemots.

‘Brad’ wrote on Tripadvisor: “A jewel! We rented bikes and explored the lower portions of the island. Head off the main roads to find the hiking trails – they are worth it!”

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Inland, the Glenariff Forest Park has waterfalls, woodland and lakes and is the ideal place for a scenic walk. Lizziebrown56’ wrote on Tripadvisor: “Beautiful and not to be missed on the Causeway Coastal Route.”

‘Sandi172’ said: “An astonishingly beautiful part of Ireland’s coastal causeway route. Stunning!”

Just outside the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is one of the wider region’s top attractions, the Carrick a Rede rope bridge. But it’s not for the fainthearted. The rope bridge hangs between two cliffs.

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‘Debra W’ wrote on Tripadvisor: “Unbelievably fun! I thought there was no way I was doing this and I did! Amazing and incredible and I didn’t feel unsafe!”

‘M G’ said: “A brilliant but daunting challenge. The bridge is high, the coastline is windy but it’s exhilarating and definitely worth it.”

‘Mike B’ said: “We thoroughly enjoyed our day at Carrick a Rede yesterday and would highly recommend time here to see the spectacular coastal scenery.”

Always check the weather forecast before heading out on a coastal walk and make sure to follow the signs and stay away from the cliff edge.

Prefer to explore a seaside town? Check out the most beautiful seaside town in the UK in winter.

Looking to escape the UK? Why not visit one of Spain’s best beach resorts for the colder season?

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