7 Northern England Destinations That Bring You Close to Wildlife

Northern England offers a wealth of destinations where adventure, tranquillity, and wildlife encounters come together in perfect harmony. If you are looking to escape into the wild and witness nature at its most vibrant, there are many places that you can discover here.

From rolling hills and ancient woodlands to rugged coastlines and serene lakes, this region is alive with foxes, badgers, deer, and countless bird species, waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re trekking through national parks, exploring hidden valleys, or wandering along windswept shores, Northern England’s landscapes provide a playground for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.

With guided tours and expert-led experiences, these wildlife holidays in Northern England would bring you closer to the animals. As you do that, you also get to explore charming villages and cosy inns to make your journey as comfortable as it is exhilarating.

Lake District National Park

Covering parts of historic counties such as Cumberland, Westmorland, and Lancashire, the Lake District is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This is a great place for those who want to enjoy nature and wildlife. Here you can find rolling hills, serene lakes, and ancient woodlands creating a patchwork of habitats teeming with life.

While you are here, you can spot red deer wandering the valleys to ospreys nesting along lakeshores. Waterfowl, foxes, and a variety of bird species complete the picture, making it a paradise for photographers and wildlife watchers.

If you are looking for assistance, you can always find guided walks and boat tours that provide intimate encounters with the landscape and its inhabitants. At the same time, expert naturalists offer insights into the region’s ecology and history. After the exploration, visitors can relax in charming village inns or country lodges, where comfort and local cuisine perfectly complement the wild adventure outside.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

Nestled in North Yorkshire, the Yorkshire Dales is a stunning mix of rolling moorlands, limestone cliffs, and winding valleys, offering a rich playground for wildlife enthusiasts. Hence, if you are looking for an outdoor nature activity, you can have a great time here.

As you explore this park, you can spot red foxes and badgers roaming the hillsides. Bird enthusiasts can spot skylarks and curlews filling the skies with their calls, and deer can often be spotted grazing in the quieter valleys. The geography of stone walls, rivers, and meadows adds a charming backdrop to every encounter.

The best part is that there are plenty of things to do in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. On the other hand, you can always find guided walks and wildlife tours to explore the hidden corners of the Dales.

Ribble Valley & Forest of Bowland

Lancashire offers some amazing green landscapes with abundant natural beauty and wildlife. Ribble Valley and the Forest of Bowland offer a serene escape into Lancashire’s lush countryside, where rolling hills, dense woodlands, and winding rivers create diverse habitats for wildlife.

As you explore this place, you can spot red deer, foxes, badgers, and elusive otters that inhabit the forests and valleys. You can also spot birds of prey, including buzzards and owls, soaring overhead. The combination of open farmland and ancient woodland makes this region ideal for both wildlife spotting and scenic photography.

This is an excellent place for those who seek deeper insights into the local flora and fauna, from the delicate balance of woodland ecosystems to the habits of its resident wildlife. You can look out for expert guides and tours to help you find hidden valleys and tranquil forests for a truly immersive wildlife adventure.

North York Moors National Park

The North York Moors is a sweeping expanse of heather-clad moorlands, deep valleys, and ancient woodlands, offering an ideal playground for wildlife enthusiasts. This makes it one of the best places in Northern England for combining nature and wildlife.

As you explore the park, you can see peregrine falcons and buzzards patrol the skies, while red squirrels, roe deer, and badgers inhabit the quieter woodlands. Seasonal wildflowers and coastal proximity add bursts of colour and life, creating a diverse environment for both wildlife and photographers.

You can always look out for various guided walks and wildlife tours that bring visitors closer to the park’s hidden corners, revealing the delicate ecosystems and fascinating behaviours of its inhabitants.

Pendle Hill

If you are somewhere in Lancashire, you can explore this space for wildlife experiences. Pendle Hill rises dramatically above the Lancashire countryside, offering sweeping views and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

The surrounding woodlands and meadows are home to red deer, foxes, and badgers. Similarly, you can spot birds such as kestrels and buzzards patrolling the skies. You can also enjoy the seasonal wildflowers that add colour to the hillsides, and the mix of open uplands and wooded areas creates diverse habitats for both animals and keen photographers.

Also, if you have spare time, you can spend a day in Manchester, where you can enjoy waterside walks, spend time at lively bars and enjoy exciting street art. Guided walks and local wildlife tours offer an intimate look at the hill’s flora and fauna and share the area’s rich history and folklore.

Peak District National Park

While you are exploring Northern England, you can also explore the Peak District National Park. This park offers a beautiful blend of rugged moorlands, limestone dales, and rolling hills, offering abundant opportunities for wildlife spotting and outdoor adventure.

As you walk through the landscape, you can spot peregrine falcons patrolling the cliffs, curlews and lapwings fill the skies, and red deer roam the quieter valleys, while wildflowers and heather add bursts of colour throughout the seasons. The varied landscapes create a rich tapestry of habitats, perfect for photographers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

You can choose from a range of expert-led tours to discover hidden corners, observe wildlife up close, and learn about the delicate ecosystems that thrive in this iconic national park. After a day of exploration, you can settle down in charming inns and country lodges for a Peak District style relaxation.

Northumberland National Park

There are plenty of things to do in Northumberland, and one of them is exploring this park. Northumberland National Park stretches across moorlands, forests, and rolling hills, offering a peaceful sanctuary for wildlife and visitors alike. Hence, it has always remained one of the top choices for those interested in nature and wildlife experiences.

While you are here, you can spot red squirrels darting through ancient woodlands, while wild goats, roe deer, and a variety of bird species thrive across the open moors. The park’s rivers and streams provide habitats for otters and kingfishers, creating a diverse ecosystem that captivates nature enthusiasts.

You can also find plenty of guides who offer informative excursions and take you to hidden corners that reveal the delicate balance of its habitats and the behaviours of its resident animals.