The best UK spots to watch the sunrise

Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door

Set in 20 square miles of rolling countryside right in the heart of Dorset, you’ll find the Lulworth Estate. With five miles of World Heritage Jurassic Coast to explore, including the world-famous Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, the estate makes for one of the best UK spots to watch the sunrise.

Formed by the combined forces of the sea and a river swollen by melting ice at the end of the last Ice Age, Lulworth Cove boasts beautifully clear blue waters and stunning panoramic views – especially at sunrise and sunset. Durdle Door, one of the most famous stone arches in the world, was created around 10,000 years ago when the sea pierced through the Portland limestone.

Seven Sisters Country Park

Situated in the South Downs National Park, you’ll find the breathtaking Seven Sisters chalk cliffs, one of the longest stretches of undeveloped coastline on the south coast. Loved by photographers, families and dog walkers alike, it’s a really popular park but there are plenty of quieter spots to stop and enjoy the open skies, stunning seascapes and changing landscapes.

Check the weather forecast before you set off as access to the beach is limited in bad weather or due to cliff falls. On a clear day, few other dog walks can rival the views of the iconic Seven Sisters. The National Trust has put together some wonderful walks that encompass both the Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters.

Cleeve Common

At over 1,000 acres, Cleeve Common is Gloucestershire’s largest common and home to the highest point in the Cotswolds. So, it’s no surprise that the common is not only heaven for dogs, but boasts spectacular views over Cheltenham, the Vale of Evesham, the Malvern Hills, and as far as the Black Mountains in Wales and the Shropshire Hills to the north. We also think it offers arguably the best sunrise views in the Cotswolds.

Even better, with visitors having the right to roam across the whole common, Cleeve Hill never feels too crowded and due to the limestone grassland that it’s built on, never gets too muddy. A win-win in our eyes!

Carding Mill Valley & The Long Mynd

With almost 7 miles of heathland plateau, wild ponies, rocky climbs, incredible views and wild swimming spots, we think Carding Mill Valley and The Long Mynd are a perfect introduction to all that the Shropshire Hills have to offer.

Park at the National Trust car park at Carding Mill Valley and then follow the signs for Lightspout Waterfall. Continue on past it and you’ll reach the vast plateau at the top. Once you’ve got your breath back, it feels like stepping into true wilderness with miles of moorland stretching in each direction. It truly is one of the best UK spots to watch the sunrise.

Llanddwyn Island, Anglesey

A hidden gem located on a small tidal island off the coast of Anglesey in North Wales, Llanddwyn Island is rated as one of the best days out in Wales as well as one of the best walks in the whole of Britain.

While Llanddwyn is probably best known for its iconic lighthouse, there’s plenty more to explore including pilots’ cottages, a huge stone cross, and the breathtaking views of Snowdonia, especially with the glow from the early morning sun hitting the peaks of the mountain range. Walk back to your car via Newborough Beach, a three-and-a-half-mile clean beach with golden sand dunes.

The Lake District

Yes, we’re aware that the Lake District is a very large place but providing the weather plays ball and there’s not too much cloud coverage, there’s an abundance of of vantage spots to appreciate the dawn of a new day. Woodlands, fells, valleys and lakes, take your pick.

Wastwater is favourite of ours for iconic views. The awe-inspiring lake is surrounded by mountains – Red Pike, Kirk Fell, Great Gable and Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain – and as the sun slinks across the water and lights up the screes, it’s a truly spectacular sight.

The walk from Craster to the Dunstanburgh Castle

An incredibly busy walk, if you’re happy to set your alarm, you’ll be treated to a reasonably clear pathway as well as the most amazing skies.

Park up at Craster Tourist Information Centre; there should be plenty of space early in the morning. From there, it’s simply a short stroll through the village, on to the picturesque harbour and then along the seafront towards Dunstanburgh Castle.

There’s grazing sheep and cattle along the way so keep your dog on a lead if they’re likely to cause any mischief.

Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh

A top spot offering panoramic views over Edinburgh and out to the coast, if you’re ever in Scotland’s capital, take the time to enjoy up sunrise stroll up Salisbury Crags to the extinct volcano, Arthur’s Seat. Sturdy footwear and warm clothing is a must, especially on a windy day. Afterwards, head to The Pantry for brunch and treat yourself to a freshly poured coffee and a Sunshine on Stockbridge, a feast of sweet potato, plum tomatoes, grilled courgette, guacasaca, free range poached eggs and poblanos. Dogs will wag their tails for the jar of treats just for them or perhaps add an extra rasher of bacon to your order if the smell proves too tempting for your pooch.