When planning a UK summer holiday, the same few destinations always seem to crop up at the top of the list. And while they’re a popular choice for a reason, sometimes you want to go somewhere that’s a little more off the beaten path.
That’s why we’ve highlighted three locations that might not have crossed your path while planning your summer holidays in the UK. These three destinations don’t draw in the same crowds as some of the more popular choices, but they’ve still got plenty to offer any visitors.
Northumberland
Tucked away in the north of England, Northumberland is a county that often gets overlooked in favour of other destinations around the UK. But the region’s coastline is not to be missed, dotted with lovely seaside towns and impressive cliffs that look out over the North Sea.
Bamburgh Castle is a particular highlight of the area, perching on a rocky outcrop against the backdrop of the sea. The tidal island of Holy Island has a rich history dating back to the 6th century that’s just waiting to be explored.
The moorlands of the Northumberland National Park are also an incredible sight, as well as a great place to indulge in a spot of hiking or cycling. But perhaps the biggest draw of all is Hadrian’s Wall, which runs along the former northern border of the Roman empire and features a wealth of ancient fortifications.
Pembrokeshire
Other areas of Wales tend to steal the limelight, leaving Pembrokeshire behind in terms of visitor numbers. This coastal region has such stunning scenery that it’s hard to believe that it isn’t one of the premier destinations in the whole of Wales.
The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is full of awe-inspiring views and landscapes, stretching for 186 miles along the coastline. There are so many opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching and water sports to be found here that you can easily fill a summer holiday with activities.
You can also find some great surfing spots along the Pembrokeshire coast, with beaches that rival others throughout the rest of the country. Whether you want to take to the waves, explore some rock pools or simply sunbathe, you’ll find the chance here.
Heading inland, there are woodlands and winding rivers to explore, allowing visitors to experience the wild beauty of nature. The stunning Gwaun Valley is a must-visit, with its traditional Welsh villages and abundance of scenic walking trails.
The Isle of Skye
As plenty of summer holiday-goers head south, some of the most northern areas of the UK go underappreciated. Further afield than most, the Isle of Skye is a remote and breathtaking island that sits off the northwestern coast of Scotland.
With dramatic landscapes to match the best of the country, the Isle of Skye is filled with towering mountains, clear lochs, thundering waterfalls and hidden coves. A week is hardly enough time to explore everything that the island has to offer, from iconic landmarks like the rock formation of the Old Man of Storr to the positively magical pools and waterfalls of the Fairy Pools.
Skye is no slouch when it comes to culture and history, bursting with ancient lore and legends. Dunvegan Castle is the oldest, continuously inhabited castle in Scotland – an impressive feat in a land with so many. The Skye Museum of Island Life will help to walk you through the island’s heritage, letting you experience how life on the island would have looked centuries ago.
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If you’re looking to spice up your summer holiday with a trip to a part of the UK you’ve never visited before, then consider making the trip to one of these three underrated spots.