Reddit users have been frantically scouring Google Maps using the street view tool to find the most picturesque spots in the UK. 

In a thread entitled, “Who can find the most uplifting picture of the United Kingdom on Google Street view?” one user challenged the Reddit community to “try get some positivity”.

“Sure, there are some s**holes but also some beautiful places,” Mafihi continues: “What’s your favourite?”

With news that millions of UK workers are failing to use their accrued annual leave and 49% of us feeling that we’re “too busy” to take a holiday, this pocket of inspiration couldn’t have come at a better time. 

Although we love the idea of jetting abroad to an idyllic island (like this one in Japan which has just been named TripAdvisor’s 2018 trending destination) as much as the next person, we’re not exactly feeling flush in the throes of January. Which is where the underrated staycation comes in. 

As the pictures below show, you don’t need to go far afield to enjoy some breathtaking scenery or charming coastlines, and thanks to the host of budget-friendly boutique hotels scattered around the country, you can take a little break without breaking the bank. 

If you’re lucky enough to live near one of these beauties, get yourself on a train and breath in some of that fresh air with a country walk (of which we’ve got a few recommended routes). 

Portheras Cove, Cornwall 

One Reddit user captured this unbelievable snap of Portheras Cove in Cornwall, writing, “The Cornish coastline can look really nice at certain times of the year”. With it’s turquoise blue waters and white sand beaches, we can absolutely see why this one’s on the list.

Hope Valley, Peak District 

“Welcome to the Peak Distract, one of my favourite places in the entire country. Go down the road on street view, the views never cease to amaze”, says one user who posted a link to Hope Valley in the Peak District. 

Ben Lomond, Scotland 

With no explanation needed, one user posted a link to this picture of the summit of Ben Lomond, a mountain in the Scottish Highlands, known for its stretching views.   

Wast Water, Lake District National Park

Wast Water is a three mile long lake located in Wasdale, a valley in the western part of the Lake District National Park. It’s lush greenery is reason enough to put it on your list of must-visit places, following in the footsteps of the user that suggested it. 

St Bernard’s Crescent, Edinburgh 

The historic city of Edinburgh is home to many a quaint street like this one and plenty of gorgeous architecture. One user suggested this particular gem. 

Tombland, Norwich

The historic, and eerily named, area of Tombland in the heart of Norwich is “quaint as f***”, according to one Reddit user. 

Ashley Heath, Dorset

This hauntingly beautiful, woodland road in Ashley Heath in Dorset suggested by one user looks like a scene from Lord of the Rings. 

Summer Lane, New Forest 

Summer Lane is a charming, winding lane through the Exbury area of New Forest. We’re captivated by the vivid, purple blossoms and its very fitting name, as is this Reddit user.

Little Horwood, Milton Keynes

About this classic English countryside view, one user said, “I went down here the other day - when I looked it up on Maps I couldn’t believe what a glorious day it was”. Another Redditer agreed, writing, “I love this kind of countryside - lowland farmland but with trees and hedges. I live in the Scottish Highlands but I actually find that kind of traditional farmland countryside more beautiful. It’s so lush looking!” 

Panorama Walk, Barmouth

What a sight for sore eyes this corner of the world is. Panorama Walk is the perfectly named view point in Barmouth, Wales, as suggested by one Reddit user. Visitors are said to have been enjoying the views since Victorian times, which look out to the Mawddach estuary, of the Cader Idris range and of the Cardigan Bay.

Water-break-its-neck, Radnor Forest

Despite having a slightly terrifying name, this waterfall could be from a fairy-tale and according to one Reddit user, is one of the prettiest sights to see in mid-wales. 

We love that even from these non-professional shots from Google Maps it’s hard to argue with the beauty we have sitting right on our doorstep, here’s to making the most of it.

Images: Google Maps / Julien Laurent