Discover Britain’s first nature reserve and first dark sky park – and Northern Ireland’s first Unesco world heritage site
Giant’s Causeway
The 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that make up Northern Ireland’s first Unesco world heritage site result from volcanic explosions 60m years ago. Or, if you prefer a more romantic version of events, they’re the handiwork of mythical Irish giant, Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool).
44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8SU
The Gower
In 1956, this 19-mile stretch of Welsh coastline became the first place in the UK to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The three miles of wild white sands at Rhossili, its most westerly bay, are arguably the jewel in its crown.
Rhossili, Swansea, SA3 1PR
