National Parks are a wonderful thing, and we’re lucky in the UK to have some of the most beautiful ones in the world. Now, one National Park has been named the most picturesque in the world, and would you believe it? It’s under two hours from Manchester.
According to a new study by Travelbag, 66% of Brits say they travel to explore new places, and there’s no better place to do that than in a National Park. These natural wonders offer the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, giving travellers the chance to unwind, reconnect with nature, and witness some truly unforgettable sights.
To uncover the most Instagrammable National Parks, the long-haul travel specialists analysed 98 parks, ranking them using a combined score based on Instagram hashtags and TikTok posts to reveal the ones offering the most breathtaking views.
The Lake District is the most picturesque National Park in the world
England’s largest National Park, the Lake District, is the world’s most Instagrammable national park, with 4.6 million hashtags on Instagram and 247,400 TikTok posts. Nestled in our neck of the woods, it’s well known for its stunning landscapes, lakes (obviously), and charming villages, making it a haven for hikers and photographers seeking a peaceful escape with a view.
Luckily for us, the Lake District is pretty easy to reach from the Manchester area. Once you’re on the M6 to the west, it’s a straight shot for about 1.5 hours, depending on your destination. If you’re aiming for the likes of Newby Bridge or Kendal, you’re talking the lower end, but if you fancy other spots like Keswick, Coniston or the challenge of Scafell Pike, it’ll be more like 2.5 hours – give or take.
The Peak District also appeared in the rankings
What’s more, our very own Peak District ranks sixth among the world’s most picturesque. Renowned for its rolling hills, dramatic gritstone edges, and charming villages, it has racked up 2.4 million Instagram hashtags and over 132,000 TikTok posts, cementing its place as a favourite for walkers, cyclists, and photographers alike.
Other National Parks that were named most picturesque
Tied for second place is the Grand Canyon, an Arizona landmark carved by the Colorado River, stretching 277 miles long and over a mile deep – a must-see for dramatic views, sunrise hikes, and epic white-water rafting.
Indonesia’s awe-inspiring Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park also secures second place. This unique volcanic landscape is home to Mount Semeru, Indonesia’s tallest active volcano, which is still often seen letting off steam.
Banff National Park in Canada is the third most Instagrammable national park, boasting Alpine landscapes with emerald lakes, wildflower meadows, the Icefields Parkway, and opportunities for hiking, canoeing, or simply enjoying the mountain air.
The most picturesque National Parks in the world
- Lake District National Park, UK
- Grand Canyon National Park, US = Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Indonesia
- Banff National Park, Canada
- Yosemite National Park, US
- Rocky Mountain National Park, US
- Pyrénées National Park, France = Peak District National Park, UK
- Joshua Tree National Park, US
- Blue Mountains National Park, Australia
- Zion National Park, US
- Yellowstone National Park, US = Table Mountain National Park, South Africa