Compared to other travel destinations, danger doesn’t come to mind when you think of the UK. It’s probably the lack of venomous animals and relatively stable crime rate but you might be surprised to know that the island has its fair share of dangerous natural attractions.
Every destination featured on this list has stunning views or other charming qualities, from picturesque views to exciting activities, but all have severe risks that could potentially put a dampener on your staycation.
It’s important wherever you go on holiday that you’re aware of potential hazards and risks to your safety. Tour operators and tourist organisations have a duty of care to keep you safe. If you’ve experienced an injury from visiting a dangerous tourist attraction and you think that it was due to their negligence, you can contact a personal injury solicitor to see if you have the right to claim compensation.
Here are three examples of the most dangerous travel destinations in the UK:
The Lake District
The Lake District is one of Britain’s most popular tourist destinations but one of it’s also one the most perilous. There were over 25 deaths in the Lakes in 2022, a number that has more than doubled in the last three years. This is typically due to tourists becoming stuck in the snow, mountain falls, lost walkers, and drowning accidents.
This district is home to the UK’s deepest lake and has exciting hiking, boating, and mountaineering opportunities. These activities can become dangerous in certain conditions so the best way to stay safe is to think about whether you have the right gear, as well as consider if the weather conditions are optimum.
Powys, Wales
An often-forgotten danger when you’re on holiday is how dangerous roads are. Powys is a scenic market town in mid-Wales and offers its visitors plenty of cycling and walking adventures. However, Powys is also home to the most dangerous roads in Britain, with 135 people being killed or seriously injured in 2021.
This high number can be attributed to the higher percentage of rural roads in the area paired with poor drivers. To ensure your safety when travelling around Powys on your holiday, you should plan out your routes and give yourself generous time to get there. Always stay aware of any signage on the road and stick to the speed limits.
Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis is the highest mountain of the British Isles and is in the Highland area of Scotland. Its summit reaches an elevation of 4,406 ft, so naturally, it provides visitors with some of the best views and climbing opportunities in the UK.
Over 130,000 people make the climb every year but you’ll experience some of the most unpredictable and harshest weather conditions on the island on its summit. It’s recorded that 6 people a year die on Ben Nevis due to avalanches and exposure.