THE Yorkshire Dales has been named Europe's top National Park by users of Tripadvisor.

In the first year that the website has included National Parks in its awards, which are based on visitor reviews, the Yorkshire Dales takes the title of Europe's best and 11th in the world.

The Peak District is placed fourth in Europe and 24th in the world, while the New Forest is placed fifth amongst Europe's best.

The Travellers' Choice Best of the Best Awards are based on reviews and ratings for hotels, restaurants, and things to do in destinations worldwide over a 12-month period from Tripadvisor travellers.

Hayley Coleman, spokesperson for Tripadvisor, said: “With indoor activities mostly off the table in 2020, travellers headed for the great outdoors and according to a recent survey of Tripadvisor travellers more than half - 52 per cent - say they are more likely to take an outdoor or nature trip than they were before the pandemic.

"With this in mind, it seemed timely to introduce this year’s new category, 'national parks'.

"While the pandemic has been incredibly tough in lots of ways, one positive that we can take away is that it has unleashed a new found love of getting back to nature for many of us."