The best locations for nature lovers revealed

The UK’s best cities for nature lovers have been revealed, proving that city-dwellers don’t have to look far to experience some of Britain’s best natural offerings.

While major cities may seem worlds apart from the slower pace and greener pastures of the countryside, research by McCarthy Stone has found that numerous UK cities have an array of natural wonder right on their doorstep.

The study saw Plymouth top the rankings, with the city scoring 345 points out of a possible 500. The scoring system combined five factors including rare species of animals, stargazing spots, National Trust sites, and outdoor activities nearby, with each city being awarded points out of 100 per ranking.

The results reveal that the South Coast’s outdoor offerings make the region a hotbed for nature-seekers. Top-scoring Plymouth (345 points) boasts 10 National Trust sites and four National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty on its doorstep. Southampton follows in second, with the coastal city earning 297 points, thanks to a number of nearby nature spots.

With more remote working opportunities, many Londoners swapped city living for the countryside following lockdown. However, the study shows that London is ranked third, scoring 255 points out of 500. This is thanks to the capital’s 240 outdoor activities, making it one of the greenest cities on the list.

Bristol came fourth with 242 points, followed by Newcastle and Swansea with both cities picking up 206 points to come joint fifth.

Table of top 10 UK cities for nature

Best cities for nearby stargazing spots revealed

Budding astronomers may also consider the southwest region when looking for a new home, after the research found Bristol to be the UK’s star city. Fourth in the overall nature rankings with 242 points, Bristol boasts four major stargazing spots and has some of the lowest light pollution levels in the country.

Nearby Cardiff followed closely behind as the second-best city for stargazing, with London securing third place. London scored 255 points in the overall ranking and boasts sites like Morden Hall Park, hailed as perfect for stargazing by the National Trust.