Exploring Hidden Gems in England: Seven Charming Regions Akin to Cornwall or Cotswolds
Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems in England
Ah, the predicament of a staycation! You want to catch a glimpse of Cornwall's coves, Kent's coastline, or Devon's scenic hills, yet the thought of battling crowds and beach queues has got you scratching your head. No worries, mate! Let's dip our toes in some less trodden waters for a change. Here are seven lesser-known, up-and-coming, or underappreciated spots in England, perfect for escaping the tourist hordes. Plus, they shine just as bright during summer as the rest of the year.
Stroud, Gloucestershire
Forget the clichéd notion of the Cotswolds – the real magic lies further south in Stroud. This place is teeming with artsy vibes: artist Damian Hirst once housed his studio in Chalford, and Jasper Conran established the nineties farmers market in the town. Summertime here is a mix of Gifford's Circus gallivanting about Fennells Farm, the revival of folk dancing with the Boss Morris, and equinoxes and green man festivals.
Herefordshire
Nestled on the edge of the Brecon Beacons, the wild beauty of Wales, and the Shropshire and Malvern Hills, Herefordshire is a veritable treasure trove. The colorful fabrics of Tinsmiths are a must-stock for interiors fanatics, while design-conscious campers will want to book a stay at the up-in-the-air Cote de Folk The Quist Treehouse. If you're in need of a foodie fix, the poppin' up scene has the Bull's Head Inn in the Black Mountains curing its own meats and cozy cabins to crash into after conquering the Cat's Back trail straddling England and Wales.
Totnes, Devon
A lesser-known riverside market town tucked away from Salcombe, Totnes is for those seeking creative flair outside the beach hopping action of the coastline. Eco warriors will delight in the zero-waste and refill pantry Earth.Food.Love, while those eager for a solar-powered stay will find solace in The Bull Inn. Can't get enough of the sourdough at The Almond Thief? Pile those morning buns in the car for a trip to Blackpool Sands.
Northumberland
Beyond its stargazing fame and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty status, Northumberland promises a vast array of adventures. Studio Fantonush has brought new life to the crumbling local pub Kirkstyle Inn, and The Old Rectory offers the only overnight accommodation in this corner of the county. Traverse the North Pennines, explore the mysterious Holy Island of Lindisfarne, or browse books in the quirky Barter Books in Alnwick. Foodies will find their fix at Michelin-starred Restaurant Hjem.
Newcastle
Look past the bustling city center of Newcastle, and you'll find the cool and creative Ouseburn neighborhood. Here, The Cluny lures night owls, Northern Rye tempts pastry lovers, The Kiln offers the perfect caffeine fix, and art aficionados will be enchanted by The Biscuit Factory Gallery and Two by Two Brewing for a taste of craft beer. Take home provisions from Ernie's before setting off for an adventure along Hadrian's Wall or Whitley Bay.
Salisbury and South Wiltshire
When Somerset is hot on everyone's travel list, consider the lesser-known gems found in Wiltshire. Messums, a tithe barn-turned gallery, set up shop in Tisbury, while the Chickpea Group's The Market Tavern serves up wood-fired pizzas in Salisbury. Book a room at their sister property The Pembroke Arms in Wilton for a comfortable night's stay.
Norwich, Norfolk
Just a train ride from London, Norwich shines as a literary haven. A thriving community of solo creatives, cooks, and coffee enthusiasts make this west coastal city their own. If you're in search of unusual museums, secret gardens, or underground nightspots, this is the place to be. Spend some quality time in Norwich Cathedral, or make reservations for a sailing adventure with the Coastal Exploration Company.
- In the hidden gem of Stroud, Gloucestershire, design enthusiasts will find delight in the colorful fabrics of Tinsmiths, perfect for their home-and-garden interiors.
- For those seeking a unique camping experience mixed with arts and crafts aesthetics, Cote de Folk's The Quist Treehouse in Herefordshire is an attractive option.
- While many flock to Salcombe's coastline in Devon, the creative flair of Totnes offers eco-friendly provisions at Earth.Food.Love and a solar-powered stay at The Bull Inn for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
