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5 Underrated Destinations in the UK

Whitstable Oyster Co Boat

Whitstable Oyster Co Boat (photo: PughPugh)

As the warm weather of summer continues, there’s a good chance your thoughts are on your next trip.

Just before the start of school break in the UK, now can be an excellent time to get some last-minute deals on cheap flights and hotels.

While there is a long list of great destinations to visit across the UK if you're in the mood for a quieter holiday, why not head to one of the lesser visited destinations in the country?

We’ve teamed up with Cottages in Northumberland, a holiday cottage letting agency specializing in providing high-quality cottages in Northumberland, to look at some of the underrated destinations across the UK to consider for your next trip.

Whitstable

Located on the Kent coast, Whitstable is often forgotten about as a summer holiday destination but has plenty to offer those who do choose to visit.

A charming town less than two hours from London, Whitstable boasts a glorious coastline, narrow streets lined with traditional buildings and delicious fish and chips, not to mention the famous Whitstable oysters.

A shingle beach is great for evening walks, and a selection of restaurants serve delicious, locally sourced food.

Winnats Pass

Winnats Pass (photo: Stephen Bowler)

Sheffield

Generally not considered as a holiday destination, Sheffield could be another good option for your next trip.

Perhaps one of the biggest draws this city has is its location. It is situated right on the edge of one of the most beautiful places in the UK, the Peak District National Park.

Known for its stunning scenery and dramatic landscapes, the Peak District is a must visit for lovers of the outdoors, with walking and cycling routes throughout the region. Sheffield is the perfect base for exploring this fantastic place.

Lincolnshire Wolds

A lot of people may never have heard of the Lincolnshire Wolds, but this Area of Natural Beauty is the highest area of land in eastern England and one of the most beautiful.

Playing host to the unspoiled countryside, hidden valleys and gentle streams winding their way through the landscape, this region has some outstanding scenery all waiting to be explored.

Villages and towns throughout the region offer a vast range of places to stay in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds.

Cannock Chase, Staffordshire

A haven for mountain bikers, adventurers, and backpackers, Cannock Chase is a gem hidden away in the UK.

Forests make up a large part of this area, making it perfect for exploring, with trails winding their way throughout the woodland.

The region is also home to around 800 fallow deer, not to mention a fantastic array of rare and endangered birds. Within easy reach from Birmingham, it is the perfect place to let your adventurous spirit run wild.

Quantock Hills

Quantock Hills (photo: Sarah)

Quantock Hills

Often just driven past on the way to Exmoor or Dartmoor in Devon, the Quantock Hills is a stunning Area of Natural Beauty in Somerset oozing with stunning scenery. If asked to find the Quantocks on a map, a lot of people would struggle to find it.

As such, it’s an unspoiled area ideal for experiencing the great British countryside. The likes of Klive Beach and the Somerset Levels define this region with incredible natural beauty.

So, while popular destinations in the UK are popular for a reason, if you're open to an alternative holiday to somewhere a bit different, these destinations are perfect. Quieter, but just as beautiful, why not visit one of these five underrated places on your next holiday?

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This story was published in partnership with Cottages in Northumberland.

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