LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL ITINERARY INFORMATION
Itinerary: Cinderella Britain
TWO TO THREE WEEKS/Suffolk to Fife
If you don't stop much, you could see these 'hidden' areas in two weeks, covering about 900 miles. Allow three weeks or more if you plan to wear your hiking boots, or want to relax over tea and cake, and catch a little local flavour off the beaten track.
Some of Britain's best-known national parks and natural beauties are mentioned in other itineraries. This fabulous jaunt takes you through slightly less frequented (but no less scenic) countryside.
Surprisingly near London sit the tranquil counties of Suffolk and Norfolk, their coastline dotted with picturesque harbours, shingle beaches, salt marshes, bird reserves and the occasional old-fashioned seaside resort. Inland lie rivers and lakes, pretty villages and endless miles of flat countryside perfect for gentle cycling.
Between England and Wales lie The Marches, and over the border loom the Cambrian Mountains - big, wild, remote and rarely on tourist itineraries. Put them on yours!
Go north again to the North York Moors, with heather-covered hills and delightful dales. Inland sit the North Pennines, 'England's backbone' between the Yorkshire Dales and Hadrian's Wall, perfect for dramatic hiking or enjoying old pubs in sturdy hill-country towns.
Head further north to the wild and empty big-sky landscapes of the Cheviot Hills, blending into the undulating hills, green valleys, stately homes and ruined abbeys of Scotland's Southern Uplands.
If time's on your side, take in the Northumberland Coast, famous for empty beaches, dramatic castles and delicious crab sandwiches.
For a final fling, cross the Firth of Forth to reach the 'kingdom' of Fife, with lush rolling farmland ideal for cycling, and a delightful coastline peppered with quaint harbours, perfect for a postlunch stroll.
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