There’s no need to go abroad to travel. The UK has a fantastic range of off the beaten track attractions. If you want to avoid the tourist traps and discover more of the UK’s green and pleasant lands, it’s time to visit some of the beautiful tourist-free destinations on your doorstep.
We’ve put together some of the best non-touristy destinations in the UK that you must see at least once. And if you’ve already visited any why not go again and see the UK through fresh eyes?
Back to nature without tourists
Who doesn´t dream of empty sandy beaches with the sea lapping the shore, where kids can run free and play to their heart’s content? There’s no need to go to the Caribbean. You’ll find a wealth of crowd-free gorgeous beaches in the UK.
The Isles of Scilly
The Isles of Scilly, south of Cornwall offer a magnificent choice of sandy beaches, including the unspoilt St. Agnes on the south-west tip of the UK.
Botany Bay
Another hidden gem is Botany Bay on the Kent Coast – perfect for water sports, collecting fossils and picnicking on a sunny day.
Balnakeil
At the top of the UK in northern Scotland you’ll find the tiny hamlet of Balnakeil. With fabulous walks and miles of white sandy beaches, you won’t want to go home.
Hawkstone Park
For a taste of unspoilt countryside, the little-known Hawkstone Park in Shropshire is a mystical collection of walks, caves, woodland and decorative buildings set in 100 acres of parkland. With activities from den building to archery and golf, there’s something for all the family.
Grey Mare’s Tail
Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall in Scotland is another unmissable remote attraction. With amazing views, rugged slopes, rare plants and even the odd wild goat, you’ll hardly meet another soul.
UK heritage far from the crowds
If you want to teach the kids about some of the UK’s rarer history, seek out the lesser-known places where you can step back in time and escape the tourists. From stately homes to quaint churches and imposing castles, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Machrie Moor Stone Circles
For something completely different the undiscovered historical attraction of the Machrie Moor Stone Circles on the Isle of Arran are a spectacular natural phenomena. You’ll be enchanted by the magical group of stone circles dating back to 1500 BC. If you can get up early enough a great time of year to visit is the summer solstice sunrise.
The Norfolk Broads
More of the UK’s history lies on the east coast in Norfolk. Originally built to pump water and grind corn, picturesque windmills dot the landscape. The ideal way to see the mills and enjoy the amazing scenery is by boat across the stunning Norfolk Broads.
The culinary delights of the UK
English vineyards
If you’re looking for something to do for adults, then an English vineyard has to be on the list. To stay away from the tourists search for some of the small independent vineyards, such as Terlingham Vineyard in Kent, Camel Valley in Cornwall or the Ryedale Vineyards in Yorkshire. Each has individual charm and tells the story of the careful working of the land to produce some of the UK’s finest wines. And of course – you’ll have to sample a drop or two on your visit!
Somerset cider
Somerset is the home of cider and offers an abundance of friendly cider farms to visit and taste the finished product. From Sheppey’s Cider near Taunton to Thatcher’s in Sandford or the Somerset Cider Brandy Company in Burrow Hill, you’re sure to find a warm welcome and few tourists.
UK farms
For a unique day out under the tourist radar why not visit one of the many farms in the UK? The smaller farms are often open to visitors and many offer the kids the chance to meet the animals while mum and dad buy goodies at the farm shop. We recommend Old Holly Farm in Lancashire, Stonebridge City Farm in Nottingham and Briarlands Farm in Stirling.
Enjoy your exploration of the secret spots of the UK, undiscovered by tourists.
