Less Well-Known Places To Visit In The UK
In the last few years, the world of travel has changed a lot. If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is that we should take any opportunity we get to travel. There is an entire universe waiting for us, and an entire lifetime is also less to cover it entirely.
However, here in this article, we are going to look into those places in the United Kingdom that the country hides away. There are various unique places that you should visit and discover the hidden gems.
There are unique places that are quite well known, the iconic places where everyone visits. However, there are some that are less explored, wild, and remote.
Hidden gems to visit in the UK
Exploring the United Kingdom offers a wealth of experiences beyond the well-known tourist destinations. Whether you’re seeking tranquility in nature, exploring historic sites, or simply discovering hidden gems, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a guide to some lesser-known gems worth visiting:
1. Portmeirion, Wales
Tucked away on the coast of North Wales, Portmeirion is a picturesque Italian-inspired village designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. Its colorful buildings, stunning gardens, and panoramic views make it a pleasant destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
2. St. Nectan’s Glen, Cornwall
Hidden in a remote wooded valley near Tintagel, St. Nectan’s Glen is a mystical place shrouded in folklore and legend. Visitors can hike through ancient woodlands to discover a series of cascading waterfalls, including one that plunges into a sacred basin below.
3. Puzzlewood, Gloucestershire
Step into a fairytale realm at Puzzlewood, an enchanting forest in the Forest of Dean. Its twisted pathways, moss-covered rocks, and gnarled trees inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth and have been featured in various films and TV shows.
4. Isle of Skye, Scotland
While Skye has gained popularity in recent years, its rugged landscapes and remote charm still make it a relatively lesser-known destination. Explore dramatic cliffs, sparkling lochs, and the otherworldly rock formations of the Trotternish Peninsula.
5. Rye, East Sussex
With its cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, Rye is a quintessential English town frozen in time. Wander through its historic streets, visit the quaint shops and tearooms, and climb to the top of St. Mary’s Parish Church for breathtaking views.
6. Bristol, England
Nestled in the southwest of England, Bristol is an eclectic and vibrant city brimming with history, culture, and creativity. With its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and diverse array of attractions, Bristol offers a memorable experience for travelers wanting to explore lesser-known corners of the United Kingdom. Whether you’re wandering through its vibrant streets, admiring its historic landmarks, or soaking up its food scene at urban-tandoor.com, Bristol is sure to captivate and inspire.
7. Fingal’s Cave, Isle of Staffa, Scotland
Accessible by boat from the Isle of Mull, Fingal’s Cave is a natural wonder with hexagonal basalt columns and a cathedral-like interior. The cave’s acoustics create a hauntingly beautiful sound when the waves crash against its walls, earning it the nickname “The Cave of Melodies.”
8. Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Wales
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers 186 miles of stunning coastal scenery, secluded beaches, and diverse wildlife. Hike along rugged cliffs, through wildflower-strewn meadows, and past charming fishing villages for an unforgettable adventure.
9. The Chiltern Hills, England
Just a short distance from London, the Chiltern Hills offer a tranquil escape into nature with rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and charming villages. Explore walking trails, visit historic manor houses, and sample locally produced food and drink in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
10. Mother Shipton’s Cave, North Yorkshire
It is one of the oldest visitor attractions in England. This is the famous cave where the famous prophetess of Yorkshire, Mother Shipton, is believed to have been born. It is exactly by the petrifying well.
It is a unique phenomenon, which is known to impress visitors, as the water turns objects into stone. This park is home to this cave as well as the Petrifying Well, and this place is unspoiled and unique, which not many people visit.
11. Isle of Wight
iIf you have a liking towards prehistoric treasures, the Isle of Wight is the place for you. National Geographic has named this place as the dinosaur capital of the UK. Most of the dinosaur treasures of the island are found on the southwest coast.
You can even check the casts and footprints at Cowleaze Chine, Hanover Point, Chilton Chine, Sudmoor Point, and Compton Chine. You will find various fossils from the Lower Cretaceous period spread across the area, but if you want to see a lot of it, then you have to visit Compton Bay.
12. Pendle Hill, Lancashire
Pendle Hill is famous because it is now linked to the notorious witch trials which happened in 1612. Pendle Hill and its surroundings are known for their bewitching beauty in entire Lancashire.
History has it that ten alleged witches were buried under the hill after they were hanged at the Lancaster Castle. This place is situated over the ancient hunting grounds, and it used to be home to wild boar and wolves back in the day.
13. Alnwick Poison Garden, Northumberland
Alnwick Garden is a small but deadly poison garden. Behind those black iron gates reside various poison plants, which only open during those guided tours. Visitors are forbidden from smelling, touching, or tasting any of these hundred narcotic and toxic species.
Jane Percy, the Duchess of Northumberland, runs this property. If you want to try something ut of the ordinary than the regular tourist stuff, this is a great idea. However, make sure that you follow the guidelines you are provided.
14. Pluckley, Kent
This beautiful village in Kent is known to be the “most haunted village” in all of Britain in the Guinness Book of Records in 1989, all because of those twelve apparitions that roam around in the village.
There are different parts of the village which have a feel to it. Those are the places that are known as the most haunted parts. This village is the place where the TV series Darling Buds of May was filmed.
15. Highgate Cemetary, London
His cemetery was opened back in 1839, and since then, more than 170,000 people have been buried in this cemetery. And that includes George Eliot, the novelist; Douglas Adams, the writer; and Karl Marx, the philosopher.
There have been rumors over the years about occult meetings, Satanists, and witches meeting in the cemetery. For visits, you have to take tickets, which are available online.
Wrapping up!
These lesser-known places in the UK offer unique experiences, stunning natural beauty, and a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture away from the crowds of more popular tourist destinations.
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