Hidden Gems in the UK: What’s Worth Visiting Beyond London?

[shahrukhkhan]

Hi everyone,

Most first-time travelers to the UK spend all their time in London, but I’ve heard there’s so much more to explore across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. From charming villages to rugged coastlines and historic towns, the UK seems packed with hidden gems.

For those who’ve traveled around the UK:

• Which places left a lasting impression on you outside of the capital?
• Any recommendations for scenic countryside drives, unique local festivals, or underrated towns worth visiting?
• Did you find any lesser-known cultural spots, castles, or walking trails that stood out?

I’m planning a trip soon and would love to hear your suggestions so I can see a side of the UK that goes beyond the typical tourist checklist.

 

[Meoncoast]

I would say follow the coast.
Wales.
Northumberland.
then you have inland
North Yorkshire Moors
Yorkshire Dales.

 

[KevH]

Assuming you mean places to visit in a Cali, then the list suggested by @Meoncoast would tick most people boxes, with the addition of the Scottish isles and coastal areas, in my opinion.

 

[Hawthorn37]

There are masses of places to visit, and lovely Cali friendly routes that avoid motorways. I recommend that you look at the “Take The Slow Road” books written by Martin Dorey for inspiration. Three books cover the British Isles and Ireland - Scotland, England and Wales, Ireland (north and south). They provide routes, scenic spots, good stop offs and campsites.

 

[The Tall Luthier]

Peak District
Lake District
Cornwall
Oxford
Cambridge
The Black Sabbath Bridge in Birmingham.

There’s loads

 

[SamSara]

Just as an aside, I suggest you remove your full address from the location section of your profile, especially if you start to tell us when you are going on holiday.

 

[KevH]

Just as an aside, I suggest you remove your full address from the location section of your profile, especially if you start to tell us when you are going on holiday.

Well said. I tried to send a pm but couldn’t get past a blip in the forum software.

 

[WelshGas]

Well said. I tried to send a pm but couldn’t get past a blip in the forum software.

There is No Blip. Both Forum members have to be paid up VIP members to exchange PM's.

 

[colintfcolintf]

I could never drive past this to go to the big smoke Cornish beach this bank holiday weekend just gone.