Revealed: the UK's BEST sunrise and sunset spots
Whether you prefer sunrise to sunset, we can all agree both are considered two of Earth's most beautiful natural occurrences. Be it the warm glow, accompanied by a crisp morning freshness, or the golden blazing skies a sinking sun is about to leave behind, there's nothing quite like experiencing either, particularly in summer. Here, outdoor experts Blacks has analysed social media posts and hashtags to rank the best viewpoints in the UK to watch the sun rise or set.
Read on to find out which of the UK's best sunrise and sunset nature spot is ranked number one...
Set in the Peak District overlooking the Derbyshire countryside is Baslow Edge – an idyllic location where rugged terrain meets rolling hills and woodland. The route up there is relatively flat so it's ideal for kids as well as adults. While there are a few boulders to clamber over, keep your eyes peeled for Highland cows and as well as stunning views.
It can be quite popular during the summer months, as people head to the top for sunrise.
However, it's sunset most people want to be here for. Being less busy than its Peak District neighbours, Baslow Edge shows off sunset in a tranquil and atmospheric setting. The village of Baslow is worth a visit beforehand too, with a number of cosy pubs and cafés ready to welcome you.
Catbells is one of the most welcoming of the Lake District peaks, and at 1,480 feet (451m) high, is certainly a popular fell for hiking. A round trip takes up to three hours, so you don't have to drag yourself out of bed quite as early as you might think.
With the Cumbrian national park being one of the most beautiful places in the world, its appearance on a list of the best sunrises and sunsets shouldn't come as any surprise.
If descending Catbells at night is more your cup of tea, you'll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful sunsets of any mountain range in Britain. Epic panoramic views of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells are worth a scramble at dusk, and why not combine it with a circular walk around the base, an exploration of the nearby caves and a picnic, beforehand.
Love this? Follow our Facebook page for more travel inspiration
Named best beach in Britain two years running by Tripadvisor and ninth best in the world, Rhossili Bay is also dubbed the 'supermodel of British Beaches' by newspaper The Independent. With quite a few accolades under its belt, the Welsh coast is certainly one of the most picturesque places to watch the sunrise.
As well as enjoying the spectacular beach at Rhossili Bay, the island of Worms Head is a great place to see the sunset. Only accessible on foot, care must be taken to avoid being stranded during high tides.
Despite the crystal blue waters, the area isn't without its sunken secrets. During low tides, it is possible to see some of the remains of Norwegian vessel Helvetia, shipwrecked in 1887.
Another Peak District location popular with walkers and Instagrammers is Curbar Edge, above the village of Curbar. A major location for rock climbing, bouldering, and even hang gliding, it offers various trails with the most popular going via White and Froggatt Edge, offering stunning views of the Derwent Valley below.
The route can become quite busy during the day, so it's another good reason to go early and see the sun coming up.
As well as outdoor activities, Curbar Edge combines nature and geological interest and is rich in wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for kestrels and wild grouse. The stunning heather-covered moorland is popular all year round thanks to its ever-changing seasonal landscapes.
The colours when the sun is going down are beautiful, therefore it's no wonder this has become one of the UK's favourite sunset destinations.
This pretty bay is located just a couple of miles from Newquay, the UK's top surfing destination. Witness the sunrise before partaking in Watergate Bay's many activities. As well as traditional surfing and kite surfing, there are rock pools to explore, golden sand to bathe on and lots of tasty food options.
Nearby, there's also Blue Reef Aquarium and Newquay Zoo – home to 130 of the world's most rare and endangered animals.
Sunset at Watergate Bay is something special too. Come for the beach days, gourmet cuisine, coastal walks and surfing, and stay for the sun's spectacular finale. As the sun kisses the horizon, you'll be blessed with wonderful views of the rugged North Cornish coast.
The third Peak District entry on this list is an iconic beauty spot. With a backdrop and rock plinth to rival the sunrise from a Disney film, Bamford Edge at dawn provides the most atmospheric of settings for your Instagram selfie. You can even take a boat onto the reservoir for a spot of fishing once the sun comes up.
The beautiful village of Bamford itself has plenty going on – art events, sheepdog trials, plus award-winning pubs.
Even at dusk, we recommend completing the full circular walk on Bamford Edge – a five mile (8km) trek which includes the famous Bamford Stepping Stones and views over the Ladybower Reservoir. Take plenty of photos but remember to keep some phone charge to snap a sunset you'll never forget.
Perranporth Beach and its diverse scenery of rolling sand dunes and towering cliffs are reason enough to visit. However, combine it with watching these natural daily spectacles and it's no wonder this beauty spot ranks in the top four.
Start the day with an epic sunrise and don't worry about the crowds; the beach is so vast you'll feel like you have it all to yourself.
There's plenty to do on Perranporth Beach after sunrise. Snorkelling, surfing, seaside walks, swimming and splashing are of course what you'd expect. For the more daring, there's even skydiving.
A walk up to Ligger Point is recommended too, if the tide is out. After all that fun, you can relax, have a drink (there's a bar) and gaze at the sun setting on the Atlantic horizon.
An unspoilt coastline with many experiences for all the family, Sanbanks offers windsurfing, play areas, nature walks, island explorations and water sports. If you fancy a bit of history, Corfe Castle, nearby, is also worth a visit.
Of course, come early in the morning to witness the sensational sunrise and you can make a full day of it.
Watching the sun disappear from golden beaches and crystal clear waters is enchanting in itself. And while that's often reserved for paradisial islands such as in the Caribbean, the south coast of England has a pretty good go too. Sunset views across Poole Harbour – the second biggest natural harbour in the world – are simply stunning.
Mam Tor, or 'Mother Hill', is a fell at the edge of the Peak District and is the national park's winner when it comes to top sunrise and sunset spots. It also signals the start of the Pennine Way, and on a clear day you can see right over the 'backbone of England' all the way to Manchester.
A relatively easy ridge walk, at just 1,696 feet (517m), the summit can be reached in as little as an hour. If you fancy waking up at an ungodly hour, the sunrise is well worth it. The other misty ridges of the Peak District add an extra mystique to the breaking morning spectacle.
Nicknamed the 'Shivering Mountain' due to the frequent landslides on its steep eastern face, Mam Tor provides great views of the famous Winnats Pass – a dry gorge made up of limestone. A spectacular favourite for photographers, when the sun is setting, even amateurs can take incredible snaps.
Wales' highest mountain, and one of the most beautiful walks in Britain, Snowdon should definitely be on your sunrise or sunset bucket list. There's the cheat option of course: taking the train, which if your main purpose is to witness the view only, is understandable. We're sure you'll feel a sense of achievement should you hike it though, and the sunset or sunrise is a fitting reward.
There are six tracks up, with the Llanberis considered the easiest yet longest.
While climbing Snowdon for the sunrise is popular (certainly to see the New Year in), for those who favour a more nocturnal descent, sunset is the one. Extra care should be taken of course, Snowdon can be a difficult climb at any time of day, but especially in the dark.
Whether you decide to start the day here, or end it, it's pretty obvious why Snowdon is ranked the UK's number one natural beauty spot to see our daily spectacles in all their glory.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New York Post
15 hours ago
- New York Post
Hotel in China rapped by wildlife officials for using endangered red pandas to wake up guests
They're alarmingly cute. A hotel in China has been rapped by local wildlife officials for using endangered red pandas during wake-up calls for guests, according to a report. The Lehe Ledu Liangjiang Holiday Hotel, located in the mountains near Chongqing, offered boarders the option of a 'red panda-themed holiday,' which included bringing the endangered species into guests' rooms for wake-up calls, The Times of London reported. The hotel brought the endangered species into guests' rooms for wake-up calls. For the morning meet-ups, the adorable, furry critters would be ushered into plush hotel rooms to interact with guests who shelled out for the special treatment. The unique experience flew under the radar of wildlife officials in the Communist country — until a British tourist and YouTuber couple went viral with a panda video from Lehe Ledu. The 'On Tour With Dridgers' video showed an apparent handler lead the well-kept critter into the room and up onto the bed. Content creator Reanne Ridger fed the bushy, red beast a treat and even stole some cuddles during her brief visit, video showed. Even more eyes were drawn to the questionable practice after the publication of a feature article in a popular Chinese magazine, the Times of London reported. However, the publicity also drew the attention of local forestry officials who could barely believe their eyes. Hotel staff told the outlet that they borrowed the pandas from a local zoo. AFP via Getty Images In a statement, Chongqing Forestry Bureau ordered the hotel to immediately halt all 'close contact' between animals and guests and threatened to prosecute the hoteliers for any further infractions, the outlet reported. China's state-backed newspaper The Global Times issued their own scathing report on the panda pandering. Hotel staff told that outlet that they borrow the pandas from a local zoo and rotate which critters are called into work. They further assured that all the red pandas are vaccinated, cleaned, and cared for by dedicated staff, The Global Times reported. 'Close contact' activities have been banned in China since 2018 as the practice was a customary form of income, The Times of London reported. Despite what its name would indicate, red pandas are not bears, but are closely related to raccoons and are a nationally protected wild species in their native China.
Yahoo
17 hours ago
- Yahoo
Listed: Five of the best Chinese restaurants and takeaways in south Essex
WITH new chains popping up left right and centre and so many different cuisines, it can be easy to forget the reliable yet delicious Chinese restaurants and takeaways that serve some of the best food in south Essex. Cooking should be a pleasure, not a chore; we all deserve a treat every now and then and supporting some of the areas family-run businesses is a great way to soothe your conscience as you scarf down yet another spring roll. So, whether it's been a long week and you don't fancy washing up, you need to keep individuals in a large group happy; or you just fancy it - here are five of the best Chinese restaurants and takeaways in south Essex according to TripAdvisor: Gold Coast – Southend (Image: Google) A firm favourite among residents noted for its exceptional service and delicious offering of Cantonese and Chinese dishes with a modern twist on Eastern Esplanade, this restaurant pairs deep flavours with a sea-view setting – what more can you ask for? Frank on TripAdvisor said: 'Had dinner here on a Thursday evening as a family, we had 3 starters and 5 mains - all of which were fantastic. 'The service was also fantastic - little things like asking if we would like some time before they brought our main course, which is basic but lost on so many other restaurants. 'We have lived in Southend for 15 years and can't believe we hadn't found this place sooner, we were really impressed.' Pearl Dragon – Southend (Image: Google) A Southend institution since 1978, this restaurant has consistently offered generous portions of exquisitely cooked family recipes with a commitment to quality in an elegant and spacious setting for you to relax in over a long evening. One TripAdvisor user said: 'I have been visiting the Pearl Dragon since 1981. I've seen some of the staff grow up and my kids have eaten in the 'Pearly D' for their whole lives. We visited today for a Sunday lunchtime treat; we were not disappointed. The food is still delicious. Read more Nationwide confirms that some customers will receive a free £200 Two boys, 13 and 15, charged after Mercedes was crashed into Tesco in Essex David Beckham spotted having pie and mash in Essex to celebrate his knighthood Long-awaited £2million revamp of ageing south Essex shopping centre is green-lit Never-photographed bird spotted in Essex for what could be the first time in UK Wings – Southend (Image: Google) Chinese food is so diverse it doesn't quite do it justice to group so many culinary styles under the same umbrella; this is one to look out for if you're keen to try some Hong Kong specialties. Well-known among locals for its lunch-time specials, tasteful décor and bold flavours; this is a true case of those who know – know. Martin on TripAdvisor said: 'We are often here for their lunch time special on a Saturday which is excellent value and as ever a very warm welcome from the staff. 'My usual huge beef brisket noodle soup bowl was, as ever, excellent. My son chose beef brisket over noodles which looked and tasted absolutely delicious. 'I already know that I am choosing this next time.' Ho Ho Chinese Takeaway – Basildon (Image: TripAdvisor) Prized among Basildon residents, Ho Ho is considered the apex of the artform when it comes to the Chinese takeaway in Basildon with a loyal customer base who swear they would not order their favourite dishes from anywhere else. In a five-star TripAdvisor review, Daniella said: 'Amazing food, it's a little different from other Chinese takeaways; but I personally think HoHo's has far much more taste. The BBQ sauce is amazing and no other Chinese place I've eaten can beat HoHo's. 'Brilliant customer service the owners are lovely people.' Yau's Chinese Restaurant – Billericay (Image: Google) Authentic, memorable and providing first-class Chinese takeaway classics; Yau's is a Billericay favourite and offering speedy delivery or a premium sit-down meal. Whatever you were planning to do this evening – maybe you should reconsider. Tracey on TripAdvisor said: 'I didn't fancy cooking this evening and so we ordered in Chinese - best Chinese meal we've ever had. The service was first class. 'Didn't have to wait to place the order and it was delivered earlier than expected and the food was piping hot. 'It was so delicious. So glad we placed the order and will definitely return to this restaurant again - thank you for making my Saturday so much better.' Tracey's got the right idea, so what are you waiting for?
Miami Herald
a day ago
- Miami Herald
What the food is like on a Viking Cruises ocean ship
Viking Cruises may be a luxury cruise line, but it offers laid-back luxury, at least when it comes to dining. The actual number of choices is fairly limited. There's "The Restaurant," essentially the Main Dining Room, and World Cafe, a buffet, which bother offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Those are supported by a small grill near the pool, Mamsen's, a unique Nordic-inspired spot which offers waffles, pastries, and other snacks, and a small selection of cookies, pastries, and sandwiches on the first floor at the bar in The Living Room. There's also an Italian specialty restaurants Manfredi's that's open for a dinner and a Chef's Table that serves a fixed menu which changes every three days, It's all very high quality and elegant, but also pretty chill as dress standards are casual, and you don't need reservations at The Restaurant. You won't go hungry, but you also won't find yourself regretting your dining decisions as there's much more fresh fish, chilled seafood, and nightly sushi than on many mass market cruise lines. You can eat well while staying relatively healthy (although the excellent gelato was a nightly temptation). Be the first to see the best deals on cruises, special sailings, and more. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter. What the food is like on a Viking Cruises ocean ship (2:20) Transcript: Hey there, cruisers. I am Dan Kline, Executive Editor of Come Cruise With Me. That is And I'm coming to you from my cabin in Viking Jupiter. Things are a little bit different in Viking, and I thought I would want to talk a little bit today about what the food is like. So it's not quite as expansive as if you're on a megaship. There aren't as many places to eat. But basically, there's a main dining room that serves breakfast, lunch, dinner. You do not have to make an appointment. You don't need a time. You can just show up. It might take a minute or two. There is a buffet that does breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Not quite as expansive, but absolutely top-notch. I actually think some of the best food on the ship. Dinner time, not only is there the buffet, which has many of the things the main dining room does, there's also the main dining room, which changes every night. There's an Italian specialty restaurant also included. You just have to make a reservation. And there's a chef's table. The chef's table is a different four-course meal every night. You really want to look at the menu before you go, because it's very specific. There's no substitutions other than for allergies. But everything is world-class. I would say the worst thing on the buffet is as good as any specialty restaurant I've ever been in. And there are things like king crab, shrimp cocktail, sushi every night for dinner. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next (or your first) cruise. There's also Mamsen's, which is a sort of Norwegian specialty snack place. And there's sandwiches and waffles and pastries. And it's a little bit weird. There's also tea every day at 4 o'clock, which is a drawn-out British affair. Have done it a couple of times. Absolutely lovely. And there's cookies and pastry on the first floor all day long. So it's not as much as you would eat on another wall. You'll eat plenty. It's not as many choices as the other cruise lines have. But it is all absolutely world-class. We got to tour the galley today. And honestly, I would have eaten off the floor. It was how unbelievably clean it was. And the chef tastes every meal himself. So literally goes through, tastes every single thing they have. They make every day. Chef said to me that he has not been hungry in many, many months. And he does not remember the feeling of being hungry because he has to taste so much food every day. But if you want to come on Viking, food is one of the calling cards. They pick up local ingredients in every market. And they'll do one dish. So we had Aberdeen beef the other day. They usually pick up mussels in one of the stops we were in. But they're actually out of them. That is, of course, the perils of going local. I am Dan Kline. Come cruise with me soon. (The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.) Make a free appointment with Come Cruise With Me's Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@ or call or text her at 386-383-2472. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
