A new study has identified Fife as the top UK county for scenic attractions, with one highly rated site every 4.5 square miles.
The research, conducted by the Prestigious UK Organic Estate company Rhug Estate, analysed 50 counties across the UK. Using TripAdvisor as the primary data source, the research focused on nature parks and attractions rated four stars and above by travellers. By comparing the number of these scenic locations to each county’s land area sourced from World Population Review, the study determined which counties offer the highest concentration of scenic attractions, ultimately identifying the UK’s most scenic counties.
Fife ranks first with one scenic attraction every 4.5 square miles. With 111 highly rated nature and park locations across 504 square miles, it stands out as the most picturesque county in the UK. Top-rated favourites include St. Andrews West Sands Beach, known for its sweeping coastal views and historic charm, and Falkland Palace and Garden, a Renaissance treasure nestled at the foot of the Lomond Hills.
Cornwall takes second place with one scenic attraction every 4.7 square miles. Home to 288 highly rated nature and park destinations across 1,365 square miles, the county is a haven of natural splendour and historic character. Standout spots include St. Michael’s Mount, a striking tidal island crowned with a medieval castle, and The Lost Gardens of Heligan, a celebrated botanical estate steeped in heritage and lush greenery.
Kent secures third position with one scenic attraction every 6.2 square miles. Featuring 259 highly rated nature and park locations across 1,611 square miles, the county blends coastal beauty with countryside charm. Among its standout landmarks are the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, offering dramatic views over the English Channel, and Chartwell, the historic former home of Sir Winston Churchill, surrounded by tranquil gardens and woodland.
Looking at the study, a spokesperson from Rhug Estate commented:
“This research beautifully showcases the wealth of scenic charm spread across the UK’s counties, many of which are often overlooked in favour of larger cities.”
“From Fife’s coastal beauty to Cornwall’s historic gardens and dramatic cliffs, nature lovers will find stunning landscapes just a stone’s throw from home.”
“What’s remarkable is how concentrated these highly rated natural spots are in certain areas, making it easier than ever to enjoy peaceful walks, historic landmarks, and breathtaking views without travelling far. It’s an inspiring reminder of the natural treasures right on our doorstep.”
Surrey claims fourth spot with one scenic attraction every 6.4 square miles. Boasting 118 highly rated nature and park locations across 759 square miles, the county offers a rich blend of heritage and natural beauty. Highlights include Hampton Court Palace, a grand royal residence steeped in Tudor history, and RHS Garden Wisley, a celebrated horticultural haven bursting with vibrant plant collections and tranquil pathways.
Stirlingshire lands in fifth place with one scenic attraction every 6.8 square miles. With 66 highly rated nature and park destinations spread across 447 square miles, the county combines wild beauty with family-friendly adventures. Among its most captivating spots are Loch Lomond, a vast freshwater loch known for its picturesque shores and outdoor activities, and Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, a popular destination offering close-up encounters with wildlife amid a scenic setting.
Dorset ranked sixth, featuring one scenic attraction for every 7.4 square miles. Pembrokeshire followed in seventh with a ratio of 7.6, while Hertfordshire landed eighth, offering one nature spot every 7.8 square miles. Devon secured the ninth position at 8.2 square miles per attraction, just ahead of Bedfordshire, which rounded out the top ten with one highly rated scenic site every 8.7 square miles.
Table for Extended Results:
| County | Land Area | Scenic Attractions | Sq. Miles per Scenic Attractions | Rank |
| Fife | 504 | 111 | 4.5 | 1 |
| Cornwall | 1,365 | 288 | 4.7 | 2 |
| Kent | 1,611 | 259 | 6.2 | 3 |
| Surrey | 759 | 118 | 6.4 | 4 |
| Stirlingshire | 447 | 66 | 6.8 | 5 |
| Dorset | 1,005 | 135 | 7.4 | 6 |
| Pembrokeshire | 625 | 82 | 7.6 | 7 |
| Hertfordshire | 633 | 81 | 7.8 | 8 |
| Devon | 2,621 | 321 | 8.2 | 9 |
| Bedfordshire | 468 | 54 | 8.7 | 10 |
The study was conducted by Rhug Estate, an organic farm and luxury estate in Wales, renowned for its commitment to sustainable agriculture and exceptional experiences.
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