Remote and Remarkable: The UK’s Least-Touristy Hidden Gems
Off the beaten path
Tired of crowds and queues? While the UK’s iconic sights are popular for good reason, there’s a quieter, more intimate version of Britain waiting just off the beaten path. From secret beaches to windswept ruins, here are some of the UK’s most remote and remarkable hidden gems — perfect for your next escape.
Llyn y Fan Fach, Brecon Beacons (Wales)
- Why Go: A glacial lake surrounded by dramatic peaks, steeped in the Welsh legend of the Lady of the Lake.
- What to Expect: Wild ponies, wide skies, and total tranquillity.
- Don’t Miss: The easy walk to the lake for breathtaking views and a sense of isolation.
St Kilda, Outer Hebrides (Scotland)
- Why Go: Britain’s most remote inhabited islands, now uninhabited but rich in history and wildlife.
- What to Expect: Towering sea cliffs, abandoned stone houses, and Europe’s largest gannet colony.
- Don’t Miss: A boat trip to experience the raw, untamed beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dunwich, Suffolk
- Why Go: A once-thriving medieval port now lost to the sea, with eerie tales of a submerged city.
- What to Expect: Shingle beaches, heathland trails, and the ruins of Greyfriars Monastery.
- Don’t Miss: A visit to the tiny museum and a quiet walk through Dunwich Forest.
Blakeney Point, Norfolk
- Why Go: A remote shingle spit perfect for seal watching and coastal exploration.
- What to Expect: Wild dunes, salt marshes, and hundreds of grey seals during pupping season.
- Don’t Miss: A boat trip or long walk to experience the untouched beauty of the reserve.
Easdale Island, Argyll and Bute (Scotland)
- Why Go: A car-free island with a laid-back charm and a history of slate quarrying.
- What to Expect: Peaceful walks, sea kayaking, and quirky local events like the World Stone Skimming Championships.
- Don’t Miss: The short ferry ride to this tiny, otherworldly escape.
Strumble Head, Pembrokeshire
- Why Go: Stunning coastal views and a lighthouse perched on an offshore islet.
- What to Expect: Dramatic cliffs, porpoise sightings, and incredible sunsets.
- Don’t Miss: A quiet coastal walk and some birdwatching along the rugged paths.
Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria
- Why Go: A charming market town with cobbled streets and a timeless feel.
- What to Expect: Independent shops, cosy cafés, and the famous Ruskin’s View.
- Don’t Miss: Using it as a peaceful base to explore both the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales.
Ynys Llanddwyn, Anglesey (Wales)
- Why Go: A tidal island steeped in romance and Welsh mythology.
- What to Expect: Ruined chapels, sandy beaches, and panoramic views of Snowdonia.
- Don’t Miss: Checking tide times before your visit to ensure safe access.
Discover a Quieter Britain with Great British Trips
At Great British Trips, we specialise in crafting journeys to Britain’s lesser-known treasures. Whether you’re seeking windswept walks, wild island escapes, or peaceful moments far from the crowds, we’ll help you create an itinerary full of quiet wonder and unforgettable experiences.
Let us guide you down the road less travelled.