Waterscape reveals the top waterside beauty spots
4th Jul 2003
Waterscape.com has revealed Britain's top five waterside beauty spots - and you can visit them all this weekend.
A recent survey commissioned by Waterscape, the Water For Life Report, revealed that most people were dissatisfied with their weekend leisure time - and that pursuits such as DIY and shopping left them more frustrated than they were before the weekend. Psychologist Dr Aric Sigman reported that spending time by the water could be an answer to such concerns, saying: "Water activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms and relaxes us."
The five waterside beauty spots identified by Waterscape.com span the country, from the River Thames to Loch Ness. Crucially, though a boating holiday or waterside cottage offers the ultimate way of "getting away from it all", all these places can be experienced by day visitors on foot or even by car.
Lune Aqueduct, near Lancaster
Graceful and elegant, Lune Aqueduct is even more stunning on a bright evening, when the five golden arches of the aqueduct are reflected almost perfectly on the surface of the water. Carrying the Lancaster Canal above the River Lune, near the city of Lancaster, this architectural treasure of the waterways is the perfect place to take in the peaceful British countryside at its best.
- //Enjoy the countryside around the Lune Aqueduct
The Broads
The Norfolk Broads are a beautiful mosaic of rivers linking shallow lakes which arose from peat diggings in medieval times. Today the Broads are the same as they were hundreds of years ago - a labyrinth of waterways surrounded by vast tracts of melancholy marsh and huge open skies. There is nothing more tranquil than anchoring at dusk in the middle of a Broad with just the lapping of the water and distant village lights for company.
- Enjoy a walk through the Broads on the .//
- //Find out more about the Broads in
Loch Ness, Caledonian Canal
Everyone has heard of the Loch Ness Monster, but not everyone knows just how beautiful and awe-inspiring the rugged countryside that lies by the side of the Loch really is. The Scottish highlands meet the deep, unfathomable water to provide a scene which is second to none. Add in the ruins of Castle Urquhart and you have one of the most spectacular places on earth.
- Go mountain biking at Loch Ness on the Great Glen Cycle Route.
- Read about .
Temple Island, River Thames
Just over a mile outside the picturesque town of Henley, Temple Island is on one of the most beautiful reaches on the River Thames. Although not open to the public, you can get married on this most romantic of islands, which sits serenely opposite peaceful water meadows.
St Cyr's Church, Cotswold Canals
Pretty St Cyr’s Church stands looking over the Stroudwater Navigation deep in the heart of the Cotswolds. Surrounded by gentle undulating countryside, this beauty spot really is a haven for the soul.
What's your favourite?
If you have a favourite waterside spot, tell us about it.
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