Discovering the UK's Best Hidden Gems
Stonehenge, Big Ben and London Eye are usually the first places to spring to mind when thinking about the UK. But what if we told you that there are hundreds of beautiful hidden gems all around the country? Whether you’re camping in the remote Scottish Highlands or you’re touring the quaint English villages, there are hidden gems near you waiting to be explored.
Discover our list of hidden gems in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Hidden gems in England
England is brimming with hidden gems scattered throughout the country. From picturesque valleys and dramatic gorges to magnificent caves and serene beaches, there is so much to discover. Here are some incredible hidden gems in England waiting to be explored.
Cheddar Gorge, Somerset
Cheddar Gorge is a magnificent limestone gorge located in Somerset’s Mendip Hills. During your visit, you can drive through the valley and marvel at the stunning rock formations, hike up the surrounding hills to enjoy spectacular views from the top, explore the caves within the gorge, or test your bravery and try rock climbing or bouldering.
Nearby campsite: Cheddar Mendip Heights Club Site (10-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites near Cheddar.
Clovelly Village, North Devon
Escape to Clovelly, a charming, picturesque fishing village with a stunning atmosphere. The village has been privately owned by influential families for centuries, but now it’s open to the public. Today, visitors of this hidden gem can stroll through the cobbled streets, enjoy coastal walks, have a relaxing fishing trip (permit required), or meet the Clovelly donkeys.
Nearby campsite: Bude Club Site (40-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in Devon.
Hodge Close Quarry and Skull Cave, Coniston
Nestled in the Lake District National Park is the picturesque Hodge Close Quarry. The quarry is a large green slate quarry which was created to extract slate up until the 1960s. Now, it’s flooded with water and appears turquoise due to the high mineral content of rocks falling into it. Fans of the popular Netflix show ‘The Witcher’ may recognise the Hodge Close Quarry and Skull Cave as it appeared in season 2.
The Skull Cave is a hidden gem within a gem. The cave is tucked away in the depths of Hodge Close Quarry, and it has been given its frightening name due to the skull rock formation found at the entrance.
Nearby campsite: Bowness on Windermere (35-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in the Lake District.
Thors Cave, Peak District
If you’re camping in the Peak District, a beautiful hidden gem you must visit is Thors Cave. This natural cavern set in a steep limestone crag is a tough walk up but worth the view. Make sure you’re wearing sensible walking shoes if you want to view the cave from the inside, as it is a bit of a climb.
Nearby campsite: Leek Club Site (24-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in the Peak District.
Tintagel Haven Beach, Cornwall
Located near Merlins Cave and Tintagel Castle, Tintagel Haven Beach is a quaint beach hidden at the bottom of the valley. It’s a bit of a struggle to reach as there’s a steep rocky path leading to it, but it’s well worth the trek. At low tide, you can relax on the sandy shores, enjoy a quiet picnic or read a good book. The water is a clear blue, so you can enjoy a little paddle or snorkel, but as there's no lifeguard, it’s best not to swim too far into the water.
Nearby campsite: Bude Club Site (22-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in Cornwall.
Winnats Pass, Derbyshire
Winnats Pass is a driving haven for driving fanatics, but it’s also a beautiful walk. Nestled in the heart of the Peak District, the hilly pass with high rising limestone gorge is an incredible hidden gem in England.
Nearby campsite: Hayfield Club Site (20-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in Derbyshire.
Minack Theatre, Cornwall
Experience a trip to Greece without leaving the UK. Minack Theatre is a large open-air theatre carved into the granite cliffs and set in gardens overlooking Porthcurno Bay. If you’re visiting between Easter and October, book a show and experience the magic of live entertainment in this breathtaking location. Discover what’s on in Minack Theatre here, and book your tickets in advance to secure your seats.
Nearby campsite: Sennen Cove Club Site (16-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in Cornwall.
Druids Temple, Ripon
Steeped in history, Druids Temple is a 19th-century stone circle built to resemble ancient sites like Stonehenge. On your visit, you can pack a picnic or enjoy a quiet stroll. If you’re into the supernatural, Druids Temple is surrounded by spine-tingling myths and rumours of mystical practices. Today, it’s a popular spot for those looking to experience a spooky night away.
Nearby campsite: Boroughbridge Club Site (37-minute drive*)
Blackchurch Rock, Bideford
Blackchurch Rock is a striking natural rock formation situated on the North Devon coast. If you enjoy walking, you can take a relaxing stroll along the South West Coast Path to reach Blackchurch Rock, where you’ll be rewarded with beautiful coastal scenery and incredible wildlife.
Nearby campsite: Bude Club Site (39-minute drive*)
Gaping Gill, North Yorkshire
Nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales lies Gaping Gill, a breathtaking cave renowned as one of the largest underground chambers in Britain. This natural wonder is among the most expansive and intricate cave systems in the UK, estimated at 129 meters in length, 31 meters in height, and 25 meters in width. Typically accessed from Clapham, the journey to Gaping Gill takes you past the scenic Ingleborough Cave and up the slopes of Ingleborough. For a seamless experience, consider booking a guided tour with an expert, and don’t forget your camera—this is a memory you'll want to capture.
Nearby campsite: Kendal Club Site (50-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in North Yorkshire.
Hidden gems in Scotland
Scotland is also a haven for beautiful hidden gems. Whether you’re looking for remote forests, secret caves or magnificent sculptures, Scotland has some wonderful hidden gems to explore.
Fairy Glen, Isle of Skye
A visit to Fairy Glen is sure to leave you enchanted! This magical landscape, shaped by post-glacial landslides and erosion over thousands of years, features intriguing geological formations like cone-shaped craggy hillocks, scattered boulders, serene lochans, and even a natural structure often called a 'basalt castle'.
Nearby campsite: Skye Club Site (33 minute-drive*)
Click here for more campsites in the Isle of Skye.
Fingal’s Cave, Isle of Staffa
Fingals Cave is a geological wonder located on the uninhabited island of Staffa in Scotland. The cave is famous for its extraordinary hexagonal basalt columns, which were formed around 60 million years ago when volcanic lava cooled and fractured. To visit the cave, you can book a boat tour from Oban, which will take you to the island, or, for the thrill seekers, you can book a unique tour where you’ll get to swim, snorkel, or kayak into the cave.
Nearby campsite: Oban Club Site (22-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in Oban.
The Kelpies, Falkirk and Grangemouth
If you enjoy sculpture trails or parks, you must visit The Kelpies in Helix Park. The two horse statues are 100ft tall and weigh more than 300 tonnes each. They are the largest equine sculptures in the world. During your visit, you can learn about their history and take a tour of the inside.
Nearby campsite: Lauder Club Site (55-minute drive*)
Wailing Widow Falls, Scottish Highlands
If you’re looking for a picture-perfect waterfall, visit Wailing Widow Falls. This hidden gem is often bypassed by many as they make their way around the NC500. However, if you make your way to the small parking space near Loch na Gainmhich, there is a rough track that takes you to the bottom of the waterfall, where you’ll be greeted by sensational views.
Clachtoll, Highlands
Perched on Scotland's edge, Clachtoll is a picturesque coastal fishing village flooded with things to do. Spend the day relaxing on the golden sandy beach, stretch your legs by walking along the coast or try catching your dinner by fishing. Wild swimming and surfing are also popular in Clachtoll.
Smoo Cave, Durness
If you're taking on the NC500, a stop at the incredible Smoo Cave is a must. This hidden gem, shaped over millions of years by marine erosion and freshwater action, features the Allt Smoo stream weaving through it, creating a stunning waterfall inside. Book a tour to delve deeper into the cave's history and uncover the incredible stories it holds.
Clashnessie Falls, Sutherland
Another stunning hidden gem in Scotland is Clashnessie Falls. This waterfall, located in a remote area, offers incredible views. While visiting, you can get close to the waterfall, but it's recommended to avoid getting too near after heavy rainfall, as it can be dangerous.
For places to stay nearby, discover our campsites in Scotland.
Hidden gems in Wales
Wales has some beautiful hidden gems you must explore during your visit. Discover some of our favourite hidden gems in Wales below and some nearby Welsh campsites where you can rest.
The Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire
Yes, you read that right. Wales has its very own Blue Lagoon, which sits near Abereiddy Beach on the north coast of Pembrokeshire National Park. What was once a quarry is now a popular location for water sport enthusiasts as it's great for swimming, paddleboarding, coasteering and cliff diving. The stunning turquoise blue colour of the water stems from its high mineral content from the slate – making it stunning to capture on camera and see with the naked eye. Alongside watersport activities, the Blue Lagoon is also great for nature enthusiasts as you’ll get the chance to spot incredible wildlife, including wild seals.
Nearby campsite: St Davids Club Site (6-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in Pembrokeshire.
Portmeirion, Gwynedd
If Iceland isn't your cup of tea, why not be transported to a quaint village that resembles an Italian fishing town? Portmeirion is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and there’s plenty to do on your visit. You can explore the exhibitions, dive into the town's history, capture the stunning landscapes, or wander around and enjoy the naturally beautiful scenery.
Nearby campsite: Llanystumdwy Club Site (23-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in Gwynedd.
Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall, Powys
Come face to face with Britain's tallest single-drop waterfall. At 240ft (80m) high, Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall is said to bring peace and serenity to visitors. During your visit, you can explore the Berwyn Mountains and surrounding hills, as well as Tan-y-Pistyll, a quaint tearoom where you can get a snack or drink and watch the waterfall.
Nearby campsite: Bala Club Site (50-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in Powys.
Church Doors Cove, Pembrokeshire
Church Doors Cove is a small sand rocky cove with phenomenal towering cliffs that have been shaped through weathering and moulded to look like a huge door. Not only is this a great photographic spot, it’s also perfect for nature lovers and those who want to relax on the beach which appears when the tide is low.
Nearby campsite: St Davids Club Site (50-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in Pembrokeshire.
Dinorwic Quarry, Gwynedd
Located near Snowdonia National Park is a spectacular hidden gem, Dinorwic Quarry. The former slate quarry was once the second-largest slate quarry in the world. Now, you can visit the quarry and marvel at the incredible landscape. At the foot of the quarry is the National Slate Museum, where you can learn all about the slate industry and the history of the quarry.
Nearby campsite: Llanystumdwy Club Site (45-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in Gwynedd.
Witches Cauldron, Pembrokeshire
Witches Cauldron is a hidden gem that can only be accessed by kayaking or a long walk along the coastal path from Ceibwr Bay. If you choose to kayak through the bright turquoise green waters, you can enjoy beautiful scenery as well as intricate tunnels from the sea into the cave. If you're walking, you can capture the views from above as you walk along the path.
Nearby campsite: St Davids Club Site (50-minute drive*)
Click here for more campsites in Pembrokeshire.
Porth Wen Brickworks, Anglesey
If you're looking for a hidden gen that's a little different, Porth Wen Brickworks is an abandoned brick factory on the coast of Anglesey. The scenes look like something out of a horror film as you see the scattered bricks, machinery, old kilns and massive chimneys fused with nature reclaiming its territory. Porth Wen Brickworks is far from a tourist attraction, but it’s definitely something spectacular. As you wander around, watch your step because there are random holes and ditches that can cause some serious harm if you fall in.
Nearby campsite: Llanystumdwy Club Site (1 hour, 5 minutes drive*)
Click here for more campsites in Anglesey.
Hidden gems in Northern Ireland
If you’re camping in Northern Ireland, take some time out of your day to visit these incredible hidden gems.
Delamont Country Park
Connect with nature and visit Delamont Country Park. There’s plenty to do at the park as you walk, cycle, or horseback ride around. On your journey, check out the Strangford Stone, the tallest megalith in Ireland.
Nearby campsite: Delamont Country Park Club Site (adjacent to the park)
Mourne Mountain
If you’re an early riser, you’ll fall in love with the sunrise views at Mourne Mountain. The mountains are a great spot to enjoy different walking trails, rock climbing or cycling. Pack a picnic and some games, and enjoy the views with your loved ones.
Nearby campsite: Delamont Country Park Club Site (40-minute drive*)
Have you visited any of these hidden gems in the UK? Tag us on Instagram or Facebook and share your favourite memories or recommend your own spectacular hidden gem.
*Drive times may vary