There is no need to travel outside of the UK to have a good time. There are so many things to see and do and some of those things may be right in your backyard. You may already know that the United Kingdom is home to many adventurous places, but this guide will help you find some hidden gems near you.
1. Minack Theatre
This outdoor theatre is one of the world’s most famous theatres. It started in 1929 when some local drama enthusiasts decided to have an outdoor performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream in a grassy meadow that was about a mile from the Minack. The theatre has changed over the past 80 years and has developed into today’s professionally-equipped venue. It brings professional and amateur theatre to the west of Cornwall. If you are looking for the right place to spend a beautiful evening, then you may want to experience one of the magical theatre performances here.
Phone: +44-1736-81018
Address: Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, Penzance TR19 6JU, United
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2. Porthcurno
If you are looking for something to do with the family, then Porthcurno might be a great option to spend the day or evening on a beautiful beach. You will find this stunning paradise located just west of Cornwall. It is a great place for the family to paddle around the cliffs, while taking in the beautiful scenery. Or it can be the best place to take your significant other to enjoy the mesmerizing sunset. You will find Logan Rock, which is an 80-ton granite rocking stone. The Telegraph Museum is also located nearby that tells the story of Cornwall’s role in the pioneering days of global communications.
Address: Porthcurno, Cornwall TR19 6JX, United Kingdom
3. Shell Grotto
If you’ve never been to Shell Grotto, this is one place you need to visit. Locals know this place as Santa’s Grotto. The history of Shell Grotto is truly amazing. It is said that in 1835, Mr. James Newlove sent his son, Joshua, into a hole that appeared during the digging of Duck Pond. When the kid emerged, he said that he found tunnels covered with shells. That was when Shell Grotto (or Santa’s Grotto) was discovered. The walls were decorated with symbols mosaiced in millions of shells. The grotto opened to the public in 1838, which was a surprise to the people of Margate. No one knows the truth about how these mosaics appeared, but one fact is that it should be preserved because it is a unique work of art.
Phone: +44 1843-220008
Address: Grotto Hill, Margate CT9 2BU, United Kingdom
4. Hever Castle and Gardens
At Hever Castle, you can take guided tours of the castle and even enjoy a luxurious overnight stay. The castle was built in 1270 and was owned by many different families before William Waldorf Astor invested his time, money and imagination into restoring the castle. He built the ‘Tudor Village’ and also created the gardens, lake and golf club. It is currently owned by the Guthries who are committed to the future of the castle and has invested greatly in the historical integrity of the estate, trying to make it more environmentally friendly. This is an amazing castle that you may want to visit if you are ever in Kent, UK.
Phone: +44 1732-865224
Address: Hever Rd, Hever, Edenbridge TN8 7NG, United Kingdom
5. Blakeney Point
This reserve is located at the heart of Norfolk Coast Area and is internationally significant. It consists of wide-open spaces with spectacular views of the North Folk coastline. It is also a great habitat for residential and migratory wildlife. England’s largest grey seal colony is located here, so this is the perfect place to see seals in the winter. One of the best ways to experience Blakeney Point is to take a ferry trip. You may have the opportunity to visit the Lifeboat House. This is an amazing place to visit if you are near Norfolk Coast Area.
Phone: +44 1263 740241
Address: Blakeney, Holt NR25 7BE, United Kingdom
6. BeWILDerwood
If you are looking for some fun that the whole family can enjoy, look no further. BeWILDerwood is what you are looking for. This family adventure park takes adventure to the next level with this outdoor experience. This is a great opportunity to play with your little ones. There is a place recommended just for the little ones on the Hill and Tiptoe Valley which is safely enclosed. This is a magical place for the little ones to let their imaginations run wild.
Phone: +44 1692-633033
Address: Horning Rd, Hoveton, Norwich NR12 8JW, United Kingdom
7. Rievaulx Terrace
The Rievaulx Terrace is known as one of Yorkshire’s finest 18th-century landscape gardens. This is one of Ryedale’s “true gems.” You will see some of the most stunning views. If you are searching for the perfect place to have a nice picnic, this is where you want to be. In the spring, you will see the wild flowers in full bloom, while later in the year, the beech woods are full of the colors of autumn. Rievaulx Terrace is near Nunnington Hall, which makes this place ideal for a double visit. This is one amazing place you will want to discover.
Phone: +44 1439 748283
Address: Rievaulx, Helmsley, York YO62 5LJ, United Kingdom
8. Whitby Abbey
This is an incredible gothic ruin where you can uncover centuries of history. You can enjoy a guided tour and discover how the abbey inspired Caedmon, the first named English poet and Bram Stoker, the author of ‘Dracula’. Being here is like taking a trip through history. This is an amazing ruin that you will want to visit.
Phone: +44 370 333 1181
Address: Abbey Ln, Whitby YO22 4JT, United Kingdom
9. Bodnant Gardens
This is a beautiful 80-acre horticultural paradise of plants from around the world. Here you will find grand terraces, beautiful lawns, and romantic scenery around every corner. You will see many different gardens at Bodnant. This garden has year-round color and can serve as the perfect place to relax in a stress-free environment, but it is also bustling with activity. There is something here for all ages.
Phone: +44 1492-650460
Address: Bodnant Rd, Tal-y-cafn, Colwyn Bay LL28 5RE, United Kingdom
10. Snowdonia National Park
This National Park is home to the highest mountain in England and Wales. There are some stunning landscapes to enjoy at this 823 square mile park, making it the largest National Park in Wales. Enhance yourself in the natural beauty and enjoy the special qualities that this park has to offer. Experience wildlife and cultural heritage at this breath-taking place. This is one of the wonderous places that the UK has to offer.
Phone: +44 1766-770274
Address: LL48 6LF, United Kingdom
Conclusion:
There are many hidden gems located in the United Kingdom. There is an amazing history that goes along with each place you visit here. There is no need to even travel out of the UK to have the time of your life. There are so many things to see and do that it can be overwhelming. This guide is sure to help you find the right places to visit in the UK.
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