7 lesser-known UK destinations for your next staycation
Visit some of the UK's 'best-kept secret' destinations.
The UK is full of hidden gems for those looking to get off the beaten path. Here are some lesser-known trip destinations that offer unique experiences and stunning landscapes:
St. Davids, Wales
St. Davids is the smallest city in the UK and is nestled in the heart of Pembrokeshire. Known for its beautiful cathedral, it's a peaceful retreat surrounded by rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and rolling hills. Ideal for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Top attractions: St. Davids Cathedral, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Whitesands Bay.
Dungeness, Kent
Dungeness is one of the most unusual landscapes in the UK. It's a desolate, otherworldly place with a stark beauty. The area is known for its distinctive black shingle beach and fascinating wildlife, both contrasting with the Dungeness Nuclear Power Station.
Top attractions: Dungeness Lighthouse, RSPB Dungeness Nature Reserve, and the unique architecture of the area.
Rye, East Sussex
This charming medieval town is often overlooked in favour of nearby Hastings and Brighton. Rye is packed with cobbled streets, antique shops, and historic buildings, making it feel like you've stepped back in time.
Top attractions: Rye Castle Museum, Mermaid Street, and nearby Camber Sands beach.
Llyn Peninsula, Wales
The Llyn Peninsula in North Wales is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It offers scenic coastal walks, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks, yet it remains relatively quiet compared to other tourist hotspots in Wales.
Top attractions: Abersoch Beach, the coastal path, and Porth Neigwl (Hell’s Mouth) for surf lovers.
Helmsley, North Yorkshire
A beautiful market town set in the heart of the North York Moors, Helmsley is a peaceful base to explore nature and history. It offers charming streets, a stunning castle, and is within easy reach of moorland walks and the famous White Horse of Kilburn.
Top attractions: Helmsley Castle, the Walled Garden, and the nearby North York Moors.
Isle of Mull, Scotland
Mull is often overshadowed by the Isle of Skye, but it offers similar natural beauty with fewer crowds. The island is a wildlife haven, perfect for birdwatching, seal watching, and enjoying its stunning coastal landscapes.
Top attractions: Duart Castle, the Treshnish Isles, and the vibrant town of Tobermory.
Orkney Islands, Scotland
Orkney is a group of islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland. Known for its ancient stone circles, Norse heritage, and dramatic landscapes, Orkney feels like stepping back in time.
Top attractions: The Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae, and the dramatic cliffs of Yesnaby.
