Advertisement

With more and more people choosing to holiday in the UK right now, there is certainly no shortage of spectacular destinations to visit. Devon and Cornwall have always been popular, as has the South Coast and it is easy to see why as these and other hotspots, combine beautiful scenery with a warm, friendly welcome.

Sometimes it is nice to discover somewhere a little off the beaten track and the UK is full of interesting and often little known places, many of which are largely unexplored by the tourist masses. One such place is Norfolk, a rural haven with plenty to offer the visitor. From charming and historic towns and villages to glorious beaches and rugged countryside, the county benefits from little rainfall and vast expanses of sky, making it the perfect place to blow away the cobwebs. Here you can discover the proud city of Norwich, or historic Holt, or perhaps take some time to walk around one of the many nature reserves or stately homes. Holkham Hall is one such option and this sprawling grand home offers extensive grounds, an onsite museum and one of the country`s best beaches, Holkham Beach, within easy reach.

Another great area to explore at leisure is the region surrounding the North Yorkshire Moors. With its unique and haunting beauty, this great spot is largely unknown outside the area and boasts much wildlife and breathtaking views. The Dalby Forest is also situated here and with it is a haven for native animals attracted to its mature woodlands. To fully enjoy this area, head to one of the many surrounding villages, one of the nearest being traditional Levisham, with its atmospheric steam train, old watermill and delightful scenery. In fact this place is so beautiful that it has featured in many famous TV productions including Brideshead Revisited, Poirot and All Creatures Great and Small.

If you fancy some quiet contemplation in a peaceful, remote setting, there is no better place than Dartmoor in South Devon. With distinct scenery, the dramatic granite terrain is both bleak and beautiful and seems as if no other place on earth could rival it. With its unnerving mass of sparsely populated land, it is easy to see why ghost stories, myths and legends abound here and have long enthralled visitors and ignited in them a sense of true mystery and intrigue. As well as ghostly happenings, this area is famous for its National Park and the watersports available, which make the most of the rivers running through the area which have shaped the land over centuries.

Of course the Lake District will always attract the crowds, but within this large and often busy tourist destination it is easy to find your own little slice of heaven. Away from the well known lakes, places such as Esthwaite are little known pockets of peace and quiet, yet still offer much do see and do, from local museums to outdoor pursuits such as fishing and hiking. With a huge choice of Lake District cottages available, the region is ripe for discovery and practically insists that visitors relax, unwind and enjoy the UK in all its splendour and glory.

Advertisement
Advertisement