Roald Dahl’s magical books were always my go-to favourites as a child, as his stories always reached out to the young adventurer in me.
From the unforgettable adventures of James’ transatlantic flights in a giant peach, to Charlie’s surreal travels in a glass elevator, each of Dahl’s tales would take readers on a memorable journey of fantasy, exploration and fulfilment of dreams.
This week sees the DVD release of Disney’s version of the BFG – an exciting tale of Sophie, a young girl from London, who is taken by a mysterious giant and introduced to the many wonders and perils of Giant Country.
This much-loved novel has been warming the hearts of readers of all ages for over 30 years (including mine) and I have to say, Disney’s adaptation was not a disappointment.
Many of Dahl’s stories were greatly inspired by nature, and the film certainly stayed true to this. The use of dramatic, rugged scenery invites us into the mind of Dahl – a place where these very landscapes evoke our sense of adventure in a world where almost anything is possible.
So in honour of this week’s DVD release, and the year of Dahl’s centenary, why not recreate your own Giant Country with these other-worldly British staycation ideas…
Stonehenge, Wiltshire
Here you can follow in the footsteps of our ancient ancestors and discover prehistoric monuments that fill the vast landscape surrounding Stonehenge. Most notably is The Stone Circle – one of Britain’s most iconic symbols. Named one of the wonders of the world, Stonehenge is a spiritual location with a mysterious history spanning 4,500 years.
The Lake District, Cumbria
As England’s largest national park, the Lake District is an adventurer’s paradise and (in my opinion) has some of the best views of Britain. And with 16 lakes surrounded by vast rolling hills, there are plenty of opportunities to do some exploring on either foot or water!
The Peak District, Derbyshire
Located in the very heart of England, the Peak District’s mesmerising landscapes are testimony to the remarkable power of nature. Forged over millions of years, the scenery here really does take your breath away!
Brecon Beacons National Park, South Wales
Grab your boots and explore the upland trails, because the Brecon Beacons is one of Britain’s best places for reconnecting with nature. From its pretty waterfalls and craggy caves to its quaint market towns and medieval castles – this part of South Wales has something for every kind of explorer.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Last, but certainly not least, is Scotland’s stunning Isle of Skye. These mystical lands were the prime filming location for Disney’s BFG and you only have to look around at it’s raw beauty and rugged landscapes to see why. With dramatic mountainous ranges dotted with islands, the Isle of Skye is a place of wonder and awe – much like how I imagine Giant’s Country.
What are your favourite outdoor staycations in Britain? Let us know in the comments below!
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14 Comments
Iris
November 27, 2016 at 8:48 amThanks Nikki for sharing! I love Britain:) Visited many times! This movie must be nice! I read Ronald Dahl too when I was young, he is Dutch too:)
Nikki Godwin
April 11, 2017 at 8:13 amThanks Iris! Good to hear that you like my home country! It has many beautiful spots 🙂
Michelle D.
November 30, 2016 at 2:01 pmThanks for sharing! I’m currently studying in Britain and have personally been to both Stonehenge and Wales and it is beautiful. Didn’t know about Isle of Skye though, I’ll have to make a trip there! Xx
Nikki Godwin
April 11, 2017 at 8:14 amThanks Michelle! Being half Welsh, I have to agree that it’s beautiful!
Kristine
November 30, 2016 at 3:17 pmThanks for sharing this wonderful post. Growing up, I was a big fan of Roald Dahl’s books and Big Friendly Giant was definitely one of my favorites. I’d love to visit all these locations. Stonehenge has been on my bucket list for so long already 🙂
Nikki Godwin
April 11, 2017 at 8:15 amMe too! Roald Dahl’s stories have a way of leaving an imprint on your heart 🙂
Faith Coates
November 30, 2016 at 3:21 pmA great couple of spots to staycation – may I also suggest hitting the Avebury Henge as well. Unlike Stonehenge you can actually get close to the stones and wander among them, much cooler. The village also has the coolest shop ever the Henge Shop to visit and pick up your little momentos.
Nikki Godwin
April 11, 2017 at 8:16 amThanks for the additional tip Faith! I’ll have to look into this 🙂
Katharina
December 2, 2016 at 1:43 pmI absolutely love this post1 what a brilliant idea. As a kid I really enjoyed reading Roald Dahl’s books and in particular the BFG. I have been to a couple of these locations but not all of them.
Nikki Godwin
April 11, 2017 at 8:17 amThanks for reading Katharina! Hope it’s inspired you to visit some of these places if you get the chance 🙂
Carmy
December 5, 2016 at 6:10 pmThe Lake District looks beautiful! I would love to visit! I loved the BFG book and need to watch the movie so I can visit all of these places!
Nikki Godwin
April 11, 2017 at 8:18 amThe Lake District is such a pretty place if you ever get the chance to visit 🙂
Vyjay
December 7, 2016 at 7:15 amBritain is so lovely and inviting. All these staycation ideas are so tempting. My favourite would be Scotland. Always dreamt about the wonderful landscapes of Scotland.
Nikki Godwin
April 11, 2017 at 8:18 amVery true! There’s so much of Scotland I am yet to explore 🙂