Hidden holiday gems in the UK
If your resolution for 2019 was to have more fun and be more active then keep reading; we are uncovering seven stunning hidden holiday gems to see this year.
There are all kinds of attractions in some of the UK’s most stunning settings. The only thing more fun than discovering them is sharing them with others!
The Valley of the Rocks, Lymington, Devon
A simply stunning location close to the village of Lymington. Running parallel to the North Devon coast – and offering amazing views in every direction – the Valley was formed thousands of years ago.
Though it offers peace and stunning scenery in any weather, you may not find yourself alone as you wander in complete tranquillity; the Valley is host to a herd of feral goats. After all, a unique place deserves unique company!
Hellfire Caves, Buckinghamshire
This network of underground chalk caverns was the meeting place for the notorious Hellfire Club. A high society 18th century organisation, the club received visits from Benjamin Franklin and counted numerous Earls, Dukes and Lords amongst its members.
Their meeting place has been open to visitors since 1951. Located above West Wycombe village in Buckinghamshire and directly beneath St Lawrence’s Church and Mausoleum, the caverns offer a one-of-a-kind setting and a truly unique visitor experience.
Smoo Cave, Durness
A mile to the east of the Highland village of Durness, this stunning sea cave offers an unforgettable experience to visitors.
A 50 foot entrance leads to a floodlit interior made of freshwater caverns. Take a tour inside and enjoy a river raft through a lake chamber, under natural arches and deep into the otherworldly surrounds of the cave. It’s a truly one-off experience and the definition of a hidden holiday gem.
Pistyll Rhaeadr, Powys
Wales’ tallest waterfall, and one of its seven wonders, Pistyll Rhaeadr offers a fall of nearly 250 feet. It’s an incredible sight and, thanks to the surrounding scenery of the Berwyn Mountains, a perfect place for a wander in Wales.
A small tea room offers a comfortable place to sit and admire the surroundings – as well as offering a great view of the falls too.
The Sands of Forvie, Aberdeenshire
The shifting dunes at Forvie National Nature Reserve are some of the largest in the UK. Reaching up to 20 feet tall, they have been compared to the Sahara Desert (though the Aberdeenshire climate can be a little more bracing!).
In recent years the sands revealed the remains of its 12th century church amongst other things. Take a trail from the village or the Forvie Centre and discover this unforgettable attraction for yourself.
Clevedon Pier, Somerset
Once a mainstay of a seaside break, piers have been enjoying a comeback in recent years. And when you see settings as beautiful as this Grade I listed pier in Somerset, you will soon see why.
Built to receive paddle steamer passengers from Devon and Wales, Clevedon Pier today combines heritage (you can still catch a steamer!) with modern day comfort. Explore the pier’s history through interactive exhibits, dine in the gorgeous glass fronted restaurant or rent a rod, drop a line and catch dinner.
Norfolk Lavender Fields, Heacham
Your mind may wander to Provence when you think of lavender fields, but you can find just as much floral beauty in the Norfolk countryside.
Located in Heacham, the Norfolk lavender fields are not just a treat for the senses. You can buy a range of fragrant products in the on-site shop and enjoy tea and cake too.
