With places like London, Stonehenge or Oxford, England is without a doubt one of the most visited European destinations all year round. But there is much more to it. With its rich history, beautiful nature and cultural diversity, there is something interesting to visit everywhere, but finding a place off the tourist track is a challenge.
But if you’re looking for the less traditional sights, you’ve come to the right place. We have searched every corner of this beautiful country to deliver the list 8 Best Hidden Gems in England to Visit in 2024.
So pack your bags (and raincoat) and start your trip immediately, because your itinerary is ready.
Kynance Cove
Kynance Cove is another breathtaking seaside destination in Cornwall. It is known for its dramatic landscapes, turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and striking rock formations – ideal for relaxing in natural surroundings and taking photos.
At low tide you can take out your sunbed and get a little tan or observe sea creatures in the rock pools. Swimming is even allowed in front of the rocks. However, be careful and always ask your travel buddy or another visitor to watch over you. The more adventurous among you can bring a snorkel.
Wistmans Hout
England also has something for nature lovers. Wistman’s Wood is an ancient woodland located in Devon. It offers a mix of breathtaking nature, fantastic hiking trails and a mythical atmosphere that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
It has appeared in writings for centuries and some of the oldest oaks are between 400 and 500 years old. In addition to the majestic trees, the site is covered with mosses, lichens and ferns that provide a natural habitat for many birds and insects.
Make sure you stick to the paths or you may damage the moss and lichen. If you are enchanted by its charm, you can stay overnight in a cozy hotel at Two Bridges.
Gaping Gill Cave, North Yorkshire
Are natural wonders your thing? Head to Gaping Gill Cave in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This stunner is one of the largest underground cave chambers in Britain, so big it could fit the entire St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Looks scary? You don’t have to be an experienced climber to go inside. You can join one local club or a qualified guide and they will help you with the equipment and the descent. Make sure you book your visit in advance. To preserve the unique atmosphere of the cave, the number of places is very limited.
Suffolk
Can’t choose between the countryside and the beach? This hidden gem on the east coast of England combines both. On the one hand it is filled with medieval towns and quaint villages, ideal for walks or discovering the traditional British pubs and vibrant food scene.
On the other hand, it has a beautiful coastline full of cute beach towns, boardwalks, boutiques and piers. If you can, plan your visit for June, when the city of Aldeburg comes alive with internationally recognized sights Festival of music and art. You get a very unique experience.
Knaresborough, North Yorkshire
Knaresborough is a picturesque market town in Yorkshire. But even though it is small, it offers plenty of attractions to take part in. Rowing on the River Nidd and taking a photo of the iconic Knaresborough Railway Viaduct is an absolute must. Several companies offer boat rentals and operate from spring to fall.
The views from the River Nidd Waterside Walk are also very beautiful. If you walk all the way to the back you will reach Mother Shipton’s Cave – the famous residence of the prophetess and one of England’s oldest tourist attractions.
To stretch your legs a little more and reconnect with nature, hike the Nidd Gorge. It is approximately 6 miles long and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. After you get back to the city, have a coffee and a snack at one of the riverside cafes.
Cotswolds
It’s hard to resist the iconic rural landscape when watching an English movie. But when it comes to finding it, it’s not that easy. Luckily for you, we know of one region that’s famous for its bucolic countryside. It’s called the Cotswolds and is located about 80 miles west of London. That makes it perfect for a day out.
It is dotted with charming villages and stone-house towns such as Bourton-on-the-Water and Cheltenham. As well as fairytale architecture, you can also look forward to stylish tearooms, traditional pubs, antique shops and beautiful natural walks.
The area is also linked to many authors, such as Jane Austen, Lewis Carol and JRR Tolkien. Those who know their work will certainly find some connections.
St Dunstan’s in the East (London)
The City of London is one of the oldest parts of the metropolis. And while tall skyscrapers are more prominent than anything else here, there are still a few places where you can soak up the atmosphere of yesteryear, such as St Dunstan’s to the east.
This church was originally built around 1100, but was badly damaged in the Great London Fire of 1666 and bombed during the Blitz of 1941. The church fell into disrepair. However, Londoners knew it would be a shame to demolish such a gem, so they turned it into a public garden and park in 1970.
Feel free to drop by to enjoy the peace and quiet or to take some romantic photos. You might not be alone: London City guys often take their lunch breaks there.
St Ives
If finding inspiration and sparking creativity is what you’re looking for on your travels, there’s no better place to do it than St Ives. This charming Cornish seaside town is reputed to have been home to many artists, including Ben Nicholson and Barbara Hepworth. Plus, it has some of the best galleries in the country, such as Tate St Ives.
Apart from the amazing art scene and heritage, the beaches are another reason to fall in love with it. They are simply breathtaking and with the white sand and crystal clear water they make you forget you are in England. They also offer excellent surfing conditions.
