several cities in the UK are frequently ignored by tourists and travelers, from the northernmost tip of Scotland to the southernmost coast of England. These undiscovered treasures come in a variety of forms. From frantic cities to serene beach havens, each has its own distinct personality.
These undervalued UK vacation spots are just waiting to be found, whether you favor isolated staycations or yearn for adventure on less frequented destinations.
Ullswater – Lake District
The largest natural lake in England, Windermere, is located in the Lake District. This also happens to be the national park of the Uk that receives the most visitors and tourists yearly. Try Ullswater if you want to get away from the crowds and the traffic and get involved in sporting activities.
Ullswater is a great place for paddleboarding, canoeing and windsurfing and has numerous marinas. However, a boat is the ideal way to tour the lake. Hire a guide or board one of the Ullswater “Steamers,” which offer easy access to some of the best walking paths in the area.
Norwich
The picturesque city of Norwich, which is in the eastern part of England, is sometimes disregarded and undervalued by visitors and travelers to the UK. Numerous locations across the city offer evidence of Norwich’s long history, which extends back to the Roman era. Norwich Castle, which was constructed more than 900 years ago and is still standing tall, is the most noteworthy example.
Inside its walls is an art gallery featuring creations by some of the best sculptors and painters in Britain. Additionally, there is a museum chock full of intriguing relics that depict local life through the ages.
Shrewsbury
One of England’s gorgeous cities, Shrewsbury also has one of the best preserved medieval cores. The city center is home to a staggering amount of very gorgeous Tudor-style buildings. While everyone suggests going to Chester, I would strongly suggest that you go to Shrewsbury instead (but I don’t see any reason why you shouldn’t go to both, if you can only see one).
Charles Darwin was born at Shrewsbury, which also boasts a magnificent castle right in the center of the city. Shrewsbury is an excellent day trip (or even a weekend trip destination) because there are many places to dine and shop!
Birmingham
Although Birmingham is one of the most populous cities in the UK, it is frequently disregarded by tourists. But this metropolis is considerably bigger than it first appears!
There is a lot to discover, from well-known sites like the Bullring shopping hub to ancient treasures like St. Philip’s Cathedral or Soho House. Some of the best jewelers in Europe can be found in the Jewellery Quarter, where they produce one-of-a-kind creations that have been crafted for centuries. In the meanwhile, the free exhibits at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery provide access to more than 3,500 years of global culture and history.
Falmouth
Although it may not receive as much publicity as Padstow or St. Ives, the sleepy seaside town of Falmouth is just as deserving of a visit.
Falmouth, which has the third-deepest natural harbor in the world, drew a lot of pirates. Henry VIII erected the fortification of Pendennis Castle nearby and in 1668 the Royal Mail began operating there.
There is still a lot to do today. The community is well-known for its events, which range from beer and sea shanty singing to fish and oyster shucking.
Derry
Northern Ireland boasts several charming cities and towns, yet they often remain overshadowed by their more famous counterparts. Among these underappreciated gems lies Derry, the second-largest city in Northern Ireland, also known as Londonderry.
Derry holds a rich historical and cultural heritage that is worth exploring. The city’s remarkably preserved 17th-century walls stand proudly as the only fully intact city walls in all of Ireland, offering a unique glimpse into the area’s past.
Derry/Londonderry boasts a vibrant music and cultural scene. This city hosts one of the largest Halloween festivals in Europe that attracts global tourists annually.
Dundee
Dundee remains largely undiscovered. Its existence often slips under the radar of many, yet its offerings for tourists are plentiful. Rich with intriguing history and providing a unique Scottish-city lifestyle experience, Dundee certainly justifies exploration.
Dundee boasts beautiful Victorian-era architecture that lines the streets near City Square. The town’s center is dominated by St. Mary’s Church, an impressive structure that stands as a symbol of the city’s history. Tayside offers numerous captivating landmarks and buildings including a castle with ties to William Wallace himself!
Conclusion
Consider these alternative UK vacation destinations if you’re looking for staycation inspiration but don’t want to fall victim to the more well-known tourist traps.
The UK caters to diverse tourists and offers various hidden gems for those ready to explore. Regardless of the trip duration or preference for relaxation or action opportunities abound!