When you’re planning your holiday, what’s on your “must have” list? Is it a beach; is it adults-only or does it have to be somewhere that you haven’t been before?
I know when I’m booking a holiday I like to go somewhere new to me, somewhere that gives me a chance to explore. I’m an avid fantasy reader and a fantasy author, so I love to find out about the magical past of wherever I’m visiting.
That’s why this month I’ve compiled a list of holiday destinations around the UK, in the hope that authors can get inspiration and fantasy readers can immerse themselves in the mythical, the magical and the downright beautiful.
Magical holiday destinations in the UK
The Fairy Glen, Scotland
If you’re a fan of the mystical and everything the image of fairies conjures up, then The Fairy Glen in Scotland is a must-visit.
Located on the Isle of Sky on the west coast of Scotland, this location doesn’t actually have any legends of stories involving fairies, but its unusual location and stunning scenery do make you start thinking that magical folk and their kin are hiding away in the rocks and local flora.
St. Nectan’s Glen, Cornwall
Surrounded by nature and the wilderness, you might mistake St. Nectan’s Glen for a location straight out of a novel.
With a fantastic waterfall and walls of prehistoric slate, legend says that King Arthur’s knights used to purify themselves in the waters before they set out to find the Holy Grail. You’ll find that visitors have left wishes, ribbons, crystals and prayers, giving an overall sense of magic and wonder.
Puzzlewood, Gloucestershire
Fans of Doctor Who and Merlin will recognise the Puzzlewood in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire.
With maze-like pathways running through moss-covered gulleys or the twisted roots of the trees, Puzzlewood is spread over 14 acres of ancient woodland, perfect for those looking for an immersive “research trip”, or those that fancy a taste of the mystical outdoors.
Mermaid’s Pool, Derbyshire
Situated just below Kinder Scout in the High Peaks of the Peak District, the Mermaid’s Pool is the ideal destination if you’re reading (or writing) about local folklore and want to explore somewhere beautiful.
The waters of the Mermaid’s Pool are rumoured to have healing qualities if you’re brave enough to swim around in the ice-cold waters. Good luck with that!
Lud’s Church, Staffordshire
Also known as Ludchurch, the walking route in Lud’s Church is cool, even on the hottest days. The sides of the chasm are covered in moss, giving it an eerie, mythical feel.
If you love the outdoors, or you’re writing a fantasy novel that needs a lot of natural world building then Lud’s Church will give you all the inspiration you need. It doesn’t take long to explore the area, but since it’s steeped in history and myth, there’s plenty for you to discover.
St Fillan’s Cave, Fife
Do you read a lot of fantasy novels that have a healer who lives in a cave? Then St Fillan’s Cave in Fife brings that mystery to life.
According to legend, the Scottish saint who lived in this cave completed his work with the help of his glowing left arm. Whether this is true or not, the cave’s been used as a smuggler’s den and a prison during the 17th and 18th century witch hunts, so make sure you take a camera, you never know what you might discover.
The Shell Grotto, Margate
For those of you who love to read fantasy fiction with mazes and labyrinths, then the Shell Grotto in Margate should be on your holiday bucket-list.
Discovered in the 1800s by a father and son digging a duck pond, this maze of underground tunnels still remains a mystery. With over 4.6 million shells adorning the walls, no one has ever discovered by the Shell Grotto was made. Maybe it’s time for you to decide?
So there we have it, a round up of some of the magical holiday destinations in the UK. I hope that they’ve given you some inspiration for your next holiday, and if you think there’s anywhere that I’ve missed, then let me know in the comments below.
If you’re interested in learning more about what’s inspired my debut fantasy novel, then take a look at my posts on “a walk in the woods” and “sailing the Fjords”. Remember, you can always connect with me on Instagram and Twitter too.
Speak to you soon!
