Breathtaking lake named UK's most beautiful has 22 islands and a charming village

The UK boasts some truly breathtaking landscapes. From forests and rivers to quaint villages and lakes, we're spoilt for choice. But new research suggests one lake in particular outshines the rest with its stunning beauty.

According to Go Outdoors, the crown for the most picturesque spot in the UK goes to Loch Lomond in Scotland, a vast lake complete with a nearby National Park and even an ancient village ripe for exploration. Tucked away in southern Scotland, Loch Lomond is the UK's most scenic lake, boasting over 600,000 social media posts.

This 22-mile-long expanse of water, the largest by surface area in Britain, is nestled amongst hills in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, making it the ideal location for that Instagram-worthy snap.

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Visitors can maximise their experience by scaling the nearby Ben Lomond mountain for even more jaw-dropping vistas.

The colossal loch is peppered with a staggering 22 islands. To get a glimpse of these islands, hopping on a boat tour is your best bet, reports the Express.

Inchcailloch is one of the most accessible islands of Loch Lomond, with a ferry service running from Balmaha. It's part of the Nature Reserve and is home to otters, deer and a plethora of bird species.

The largest island, Inchmurrin, is also reachable by ferry, with a service departing from the jetty at Arden. This island is steeped in history and hosts several intriguing ruins, including Lennox Castle and a 7th-century monastery.

Nestled on the western banks of the lake, you'll find the enchanting village of Luss, a settlement steeped in history dating back to the 11th century.

Luss is a picturesque haven of quaint stone cottages, blooming gardens and offers stunning vistas across the loch.

Beyond its medieval allure, Luss boasts an array of independent boutiques ideal for securing mementoes of your visit, along with a wealth of cafes, restaurants and pubs where you can unwind while soaking up the breathtaking scenery.

While Luss tends to draw crowds during the summer season, an early arrival can help you sidestep the throngs and fully savour your day trip.