Explore the breathtaking charm of the UK with our guide to '100 of Britain's Most Beautiful Places to Visit.' Discover the untouched countryside, ancient castles, quaint villages, and cosmopolitan cities. Learn about their rich history, unique attractions, and hidden gems.
Polperro
Nestled on Cornwall's southern coast, Polperro is a quaint fishing village renowned for its labyrinthine streets, historic harbour, and distinctive thatched abodes. Its maritime heritage is steeped in a bygone era when the pilchard fishing industry thrived. Today, the harbour teems with a modest fleet of fishing vessels alongside pleasure boats, all nestled in the shadow of verdant countryside and rugged cliffs. Polperro's allure lies in its nostalgic charm, making it a favourite among walkers and nature enthusiasts.
The Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye, set adrift off Scotland's west coast, weaves a mesmerizing narrative with its striking terrain and mystical allure. The imposing Cuillin Range reigns over the landscape, with dramatic cliffs and tumbling waterfalls forging stunning panoramas. Traditional hamlets and age-old strongholds, including Dunvegan Castle, echo the island's rich Gaelic past. Skye's enthralling ambience, intertwined with its untamed splendour, renders it a beacon for adventurers, shutterbugs, and anyone yearning for a quintessentially Scottish island odyssey.
Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle, an awe-inspiring edifice perched on Northumberland's coast, stands as a testament to the region's vibrant past. Dating back to the 11th century, the castle has been painstakingly restored and now invites explorers to navigate its formidable towers, regal halls, and breathtaking views of the North Sea. The castle grounds host a suite of beautifully manicured gardens, the crown jewel being the charming walled garden, flourishing with a colourful array of flowers and herbs.
Staithes
The historic fishing hamlet of Staithes, poised on North Yorkshire's picturesque coast, is renowned for its enchanting cobbled streets, postcard-perfect harbour, and inspiring seaside vistas. A past intertwined with medieval smugglers adds an intriguing layer to its narrative. Today, Staithes captivates visitors with its idyllic coastal trails, charming byways, and inviting pubs. As one wanders through the narrow lanes lined with traditional fishermen's cottages, the stunning North Sea views serve as a constant companion, making a visit to Staithes a truly immersive experience.
Kingham
Oxford
Oxford's acclaimed skyline is punctuated by historic spires and the Radcliffe Camera's eminent dome, a noteworthy structure of Oxford University. The city's grandeur is enthralling, with medieval lore concealed behind ancient edifice walls.
Oxford teems with an array of attractions from insightful museums to lush gardens. Venture through the Ashmolean Museum, excavate Oxford Castle and Prison's history, or admire the stunning Christ Church. Serving as muse for Hogwarts and Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland, Christ Church, Oxford's largest college, also houses the city's cathedral.
Stanage Edge
Jutting out over the Derbyshire countryside, Stanage Edge is the largest gritstone escarpment in the Peak District and reaches for four miles above the moorland. The cliff face is a distinctive part of the landscape and has become popular with hikers and rock climbers, particularly with those wanting to tackle High Neb. For anyone feeling not quite so ambitious, there are some less-challenging routes. The walk from Hathersage takes you past the Bronte Cottage and North Lees Hall, which inspired Thornfield Manor in Charlotte Bronte’s classic, Jane Eyre. At the summit of Stanage Edge, panoramic views stretch on for miles and on a clear day you can see over to Mam Tor.
Broadway
Broadway boasts one of the Cotswolds' most distinguished and historic thoroughfares, a hub of high-end boutiques, art repositories, and interior design emporiums. The town's architectural allure, characterized by honey-hued houses draped in rose and wisteria, has long attracted artists of the ilk of William Morris and John Singer Sargent. The blend of history and aesthetics makes Broadway a compelling destination for art and culture aficionados.
Hathersage
Hope Valley
Home to epic peaks such as Mam Tor, Stanage Edge and Losehill, along with mile upon mile of undulating moorland, Hope Valley is one of the finest areas in the Peak District National Park. This is a place where adventurers can revel in outdoor activities from climbing to cycling, and nature lovers can immerse themselves in beautiful scenery full of rich flora and fauna. There’s also plenty for the history buffs to enjoy too, with historical villages vying for attention. Visit Castleton to see its spectacular caverns and hilltop fort, discover the dark past of Eyam Plague Village, and see why Hathersage influenced Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre.
Overlooking theancient Aylsham market square and drenched in history, The Ironmongersoffers unique boutique accommodation.
A 16th-century village inn surrounded by the Surrey Hills, with boutique rooms and deluxe shepherds huts
With spectacular views of the Preseli Hills, Grove is a beautiful country house with a 4 AA Rosette restaurant, Fernery
With Michelin Star dining, views across the Jurassic Coast and a luxury Pool House, Lympstone is an exceptional 5 Star hotel
This historic riverside hotel stands on the banks of the Thames next to Hampton Court Palace
With a dreamy position on the banks of the River Windrush, Minster Mill provides the perfect Cotswold escape
Wrapped inside beautiful gardens and a 17th-century house, this boutique restaurant with rooms celebrates the Kent countryside and local produce