Phew, it’s scorchio! Our top five places to keep cool in the UK this summer
It’s hot. It’s sweaty. It’s only the start of July. If, like us, you’re sweltering in the heat and wondering how you’re going to get through the rest of the summer, let us point you in the right direction.
Here are our top five places to keep cool in the UK throughout the summer months – and we’re not talking about the freezer section of your local supermarket.
1. Marble Arch Caves, Enniskillen
A short drive from Enniskillen and you’re out in the proper countryside of Northern Ireland – all rolling green hills dotted with sheep and fenced by weather-gnarled hedges.
If the scenery so far isn’t breathtaking enough, it certainly will be when you hit Marble Arch Caves, at Cuilcagh Mountain.
Tiptoe down a set of steep stone stairs and head underground into a world of stalactites and stalagmites. Board a boat and you’ll be led along a river that takes in waterfalls and cave chambers all in the cool subterranean surroundings.
2. Thomason Foss, Yorkshire
Sneak in a pint of real ale at the Beck Hole pub, then hunt down this little-known gem for a quick dip. It’s a plunge pool at the base of a waterfall, with woodland all around.
Beck Hole is along the well-trod (and easy) walking route between Goathland and Grosmont. Catch a steam train on the North York Moors Railway one way, and walk back – making sure to have a quick cool down en route.
3. Alton Towers Waterpark
We couldn’t do a feature on keeping cool without mentioning what we think is the biggest and best water park in the UK.
From a huge water coaster that sends you hurtling around the water park at crazy speeds, to bubble pools made for pure relaxation, this is a great place to take the family to cool down. There’s even the aptly named ‘Little Leaks’ – a special water play area for little ones.
4. Abereiddy Blue Lagoon
To the north of Abereiddy beach (another simply stunning place to keep cool) is Abereiddy blue lagoon, and boy is it blue!
It’s the kind of place you imagine you’d never find in the UK – azure blue water that’s surrounded by cliffs of grey slate. Jump in from the platforms and make a splash.
5. River Trent, Anchor Church, Derbyshire
For a seriously magical spot of water, check out Derbyshire’s River Trent near Ingleby.
Swim in a lagoon that’s safe, quiet and perfect if you’ve got kids, then feast your eyes on the wonderful rock grottoes at Anchor Church – they were first inhabited in the sixth century!
Photo credit: “Thomason Foss” by Matt Neale is licensed under CC BY 2.0
