The UK is full of magical places just waiting to be explored. Over the years, this small country has inspired stories of mystery and adventure, captivating readers from across the globe. From hobbits to dragons, ghosts to fairies, the UK is the land of all manner of mythical creatures which have become embedded in British folklore.
Some of the most magical places to visit in the UK include:
If you fancy exploring fairy-tale landscapes and learning more about the UK’s myths and legends, these locations are the perfect spot for a mini-break.
Located on the coast of North Cornwall, Tintagel is one of the most magical places to visit in the UK. This charming village was the birthplace of fabled medieval monarch King Arthur, who was supposedly born in Tintagel Castle. Spend a weekend in Tintagel and become engrossed in tales of heroic battles and brave knights.
Stroll around Tintagel Castle, learn about the legend of King Arthur and find out why this location has fuelled the imaginations of writers and artists for hundreds of years. The castle is surrounded by picturesque views of the rugged Cornish coastline, which is home to various wildlife including birds and seals.
Venture down into Merlin’s Cave, a 330-foot-long sea cave that stretches all the way along the piece of land on which Tintagel Castle stands. This atmospheric cave was made famous by English poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson, who described Merlin carrying King Arthur to safety after being washed ashore onto the beach as a baby. Learn more about the legend of King Arthur and experience the blend of magic and history which makes this historical site so unique.
Nestled behind a small metal gate in the town of Pittenweem, St Fillan’s Cave has a fascinating history. According to legend, this dark cave was inhabited by a 7th-century miracle-working Irish missionary, who composed his writings by the light of his luminous arm. In the following centuries, St Fillan’s Cave was used as a smuggler’s den, and as a prison during the 17th and 18th-century witch hunts.
Visitors can explore the cave and witness a holy well that was thought to contain healing properties during medieval times. St Fillan’s Cave is still a minor pilgrimage site, and Christian services are sometimes held under the rock roof. The cave entrance is located on Cove Wynd, an idyllic lane that leads down to Pittenweem Harbour.
Situated on the western side of the Quantock Hills in Somerset, Shervage Wood is rumoured to have been home to a fire-breathing dragon named the Gurt Wurm. Legend has it that an enormous dragon once lived in the woods, preying on livestock and wildlife.
The dragon was supposedly killed by woodcutter Joe Tottle, who split the creature in two with three blows of an axe. Some believe that before the dragon died, it laid an egg in Shervage Wood which is still yet to hatch. Others believe that the two halves of the dragon formed the Quantock Hills.
Explore Shervage Wood for yourself and learn more about the interesting tale of the Gurt Wurm.
Mermaid’s Pool is a small pool on Kinder Scout in Derbyshire, famed for the legend that surrounds it. It is believed that the pool is home to a beautiful mermaid, who can be seen if you look into the water at sunrise on Easter Sunday. The waters of the Mermaid’s Pool are also said to provide healing qualities to those who bathe in it.
Whether you believe the tale or not, Derbyshire’s Mermaid’s Pool is a spectacular place to visit. Once you’ve witnessed the pool, take a relaxed walk over the surrounding hilly terrain and enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery.
Looking for a place to stay near Mermaid’s Pool? Our Leonardo Hotel Sheffield is only a short drive from this unmissable attraction and is the ideal place to rest your feet after a busy day. Boasting spacious rooms, a stylish bar and an outstanding restaurant, our Sheffield Hotel offers total luxury.
Visiting Gloucestershire’s Puzzlewood is like stepping into an enchanted world. This area of woodland is thought to have inspired the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, author of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Puzzlewood is also a popular film location and has featured in works such as Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Secret Garden (2020). It’s also been used as a setting for various television programmes such as BBC’s Merlin and Doctor Who.
Situated in the Forest of Dean, Puzzlewood boasts plenty of charm and character. It features a vibrant combination of moss, lichen, rocks and old trees, which gives the landscape a middle-Earth effect. Here, you can wander along a mile of pathways that wind their way through deep gullies and unique tree and rock formations.
Cumbria used to be part of an ancient Celtic kingdom, and themes of Celtic legends and folklore are still evident throughout the area today. One of the most prominent themes is fairies. Elva Hill means ‘place of elves’, a name which most likely comes from an old Viking definition – the place of the elves. Head over to the southern side of Elva Hill to see if you can spot some of these fabled fairies for yourself. The hill is also home to a mysterious Neolithic stone circle consisting of 15 stones.
Planning a short break in the UK? Discover our complete list of Leonardo Hotels UK and find the perfect hotel for your getaway.
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