Must-Visit Destinations for Unforgettable Experiences

Discover charming countryside escapes, unique attractions, and memorable adventures to add to your travel plans this year.

Jan 19, 2025

This week, I’m excited to share a handpicked selection of delightful places that I think are absolute must-visits for your 2025 activity list. Each destination promises a brilliant experience, and if you’re fond of gardens, nature, animals, or antiques, you’ll find these spots are perfectly up your alley.

1. Renishaw Hall and Gardens

It’s no secret that this is one of my favourite places. Renishaw Hall and Gardens in Derbyshire is a fantastic day out. I’ve written an entire post on this beautiful home but in short, this historic estate features an enchanting Italianate garden, immaculate lawns, and serene woodland paths. Perfect for history and horticulture enthusiasts, the hall's centuries-old architecture tells the story of the Sitwell family still residing here. Art and artefacts within the hall provide a glimpse into a bygone era. Seasonal events and guided tours enhance the experience, making it ideal for visitors of all ages. Renishaw Hall offers an idyllic retreat in the heart of the countryside for those seeking tranquillity, inspiration, or a connection to English heritage.

2. Holly Hagg Farm Alpaca Walking

I popped over to Holly Hagg Farm for an alpaca trekking experience, which my sister and I had cunningly arranged as a birthday surprise for Mum. And let me tell you, it was a brilliant laugh! There are alpaca experiences dotted all over the country, and if you’ve never tried it, I’d wholeheartedly suggest you book yourself in. Who knew these fluffy creatures were such characters?

I was paired up with Santiago, a cheeky little troublemaker with a taste for mischief. He dove into bushes, snagged snacks along the way (strictly against the rules, the rascal!), and was more than happy to pose for a selfie or two. Honestly, every time I pulled out my phone, he was right there, nosing around to see what I was up to. I reckon he’s a seasoned pro when it comes to photos—an absolute natural.

Our trek took us through woodlands, over rocky paths, and, in a rather surreal twist, right through a housing estate. Just picture it: a pack of alpacas casually strolling past someone’s front window while they’re tucking into their Sunday roast.

All in all, a cracking day out with a gang of charming, mischievous alpacas.

3. Yorkshire Wildlife Park

I hadn’t been to Yorkshire Wildlife Park in years, so I decided to book it as a birthday outing for my sister. The weather nearly threw a spanner in the works, but we powered through and ended up having a fabulous day.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park is an absolute gem for animal lovers, blending conservation with a bit of adventure. It’s home to over 400 animals, including polar bears and tigers, both endangered species. The park is all about preserving biodiversity, and the expansive enclosures are designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitats, which makes for an immersive experience.

I did wonder for a moment if three adults wandering about a wildlife park might feel a bit odd, it’s easy to assume these places are geared towards children, but honestly, it’s brilliant for all ages. There are fascinating talks and up-close animal experiences to enjoy, so there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.

What’s more, a visit to Yorkshire Wildlife Park supports important conservation work, which makes the whole day feel even more worthwhile. If you fancy a visit, I’d recommend keeping an eye on their website or social media for any deals on entry. It’s well worth it!

4. Clumber Park – The National Trust

The National Trust has many parks scattered across the country, and I enjoy visiting our local park for dog walks in all seasons but spring has to be my favourite. It’s a place I’ve visited countless times, yet it never fails to feel like a new adventure. The moment I step out of the car, I am greeted by beautiful scenery.

The park is dotted with families, dog walkers, and the occasional solitary stroller like myself. My usual route winds through woodland, past a serene lake, and towards a breathtaking viewpoint of the church. The scenery is picture-perfect. Visiting the park always leaves me feeling refreshed and grounded.

5. Newark Antiques Fair

I visited The Newark Antiques Fair for the first time last year, and it truly is a treasure trove for collectors, decorators, and history enthusiasts. Held at the Newark Showground, this internationally renowned event draws buyers and sellers from all over the globe—including little old me. I believe an episode of Flog It! and Bargain Hunt was filmed here at some point too.

The site was massive, with over 2,000 stalls offering an eclectic mix of antiques, vintage items, and collectables, ranging from fine art to quirky curiosities. It’s easy to appreciate the fair’s diverse offerings and its vibrant atmosphere. It took us about three hours to explore the entire fair, though we did notice that some stalls tend to sell up and pack up early.

If you’re planning a visit, I’d recommend having a good look around before settling down at a food stall. We made the mistake of plonking ourselves at the first food van we came across, only to later discover much better food with a wider variety deeper into the fair.

I’ll definitely plan another visit this year - it was absolutely brilliant. I managed to pick up some lovely antique trinket boxes and a beautiful vase.

This is just a small selection of places I’ve loved visiting and would happily return to. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about them and perhaps discovered somewhere new to add to your own list—or even a gem closer to home. I’m always on the lookout for new places to visit so feel free to add your own recommendations in the comments.

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