The UK’s best hidden gems
With staycations as popular as ever this year, Booking.com reveals some of the UK’s best hidden gems and new trending destinations, ideal for enjoying a holiday closer to home without the crowds.
Whether it’s swapping Blackpool’s busy beaches for calmer Lytham St Anne’s, or trading a stroll down Brighton Pier for up-and-coming Hastings, there’s something to help every type of traveller get away from the hustle and bustle and explore somewhere new.
Swap the Norfolk Broads for Tattershall, Lincolnshire
Swap the increasingly popular Norfolk Broads for the picturesque countryside of Tattershall, Lincolnshire. Home to Tattershall Castle, Tom Thumb's house (and grave!), and Tattershall Farm Park, there’s plenty to do – including a petting zoo and adventure playground – a firm favourite with the kids. For those looking to explore further, Skegness beach and Lincoln Castle are both under an hour’s drive away!
Stay at: Bear Lodge – Travel Sustainable property
Bear Lodge is a holiday chalet with a rooftop terrace, patio and impressive lake views. The lodge contains everything you need for a family home from home. Go for a dip in the swimming pool, have a soak in your own personal hot tub or hire bikes – if you fancy a more energetic activity! The lodge contains a fully equipped kitchen, but if you don’t feel like cooking, there’s an onsite restaurant too.
Swap Blackpool Beach for Lytham St Annes, Lancashire
Why not replace the bright lights of Blackpool Beach with the neighbouring calm of St Anne’s Beach in Lytham St Annes? A seaside town in Borough of Fylde, Lytham St Annes is almost contiguous with Blackpool, but is far enough away to escape the crowds during peak seasons. When you’re not relaxing on the beach, head down to Fairhaven Lake and get out on the water with motorboats, canoes and rowing boats on offer, or enjoy the many gardens and golf course nearby.
Stay at: The Old School House
Originally a Victorian school, The Old School House has since embarked on a complete refurbishment, whist retaining its old-world charm. Situated close to both the famous beach and promenade with all of its extensive entertainment and leisure facilities, as well as walking distance to the vibrant town centre of St Annes on Sea with its vast array of shops, bars and restaurants, the perfect getaway.
Swap ‘Capital of the Highlands’ Inverness for Pitlochry, Perthshire
In need of a Scottish expedition? Switch the bustling city streets of Inverness for the serene Pitlochry, Perthshire. Enjoy the stunning mountain and woodland scenery with its many lochs, rivers and waterfalls, well mapped for walkers and mountain-bikers. If you’re after some culture, check out the Pitlochry Festival Theatre, historic attractions and awe-inspiring castles.
Stay at: Knockendarroch Hotel
Set in a magnificent stone-built Victorian building and just a 5 minutes’ walk from Pitlochry town centre, this welcoming period property boasts original features and traditional charm. Enjoy the wonderful views of Tummel Valley, Ben Vrackie and the stunning views of Pitlochry from the comfort of your room, or venture down to the lounge for cosy log fires and a selection of malt whiskies, gins and wines. The perfect setting for a relaxing staycation.
Swap Brighton for Hastings, East Sussex
Swap the hustle and bustle of Brighton for its quieter cousin, Hastings. Dubbed ‘Dalston on Sea’ the seaside town, has all the makings of a great coastal break – from beaches, bars and restaurants, to castles, history and museums, there are activities to entertain all the family.
Stay at: 15 Grosvenor
Just two-minutes’ walk from the beach is the 15 Grosvenor B&B – your home from home in Hastings. Smart, well-appointed rooms in this stunning period townhouse are spacious and stylish. When you’ve had your fill of Hastings’ history and beaches for the day, mingle with other guests over a drink in the lounge, or hit the town for bars and restaurants in the lively town-centre.
Swap Bournemouth for Lyme Regis, Dorset
If you’re after something more chilled out, swap Dorset’s busier Bournemouth with a trip to Lyme Regis. Westcountry seaside town, Lyme Regis is a stunning town on the Jurassic Coast, boasting beautiful beaches, a picturesque harbour and fossil-hunting galore! Whether you’re there for a short break or a longer stay, there’s plenty to do including water sports, hiking, relaxing on the beaches, and sampling the local cuisine.
Stay at: The Pilot Boat
The Pilot Boat is your home away from home, set at the edge of the beach where you can relax and unwind. The iconic grade II listed building has been given a second life and now offers adults-only accommodation featuring a bar, restaurant and water sport facilities. The family-owned hotel is centrally located, with the beach only a few steps from your front door, and close to the bars, restaurants and attractions of Lyme Regis.