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West Yorkshire’s Colne Valley is one of the region’s best-kept secrets for tourists and locals alike, with its scenic canal, artisan shops and traditional British pubs making it a real hidden gem to explore

Nestled in West Yorkshire’s Colne Valley, this delightful village boasts a well-deserved reputation for its scenic artisan boutiques, coffee shops, bars and selection of classic British pubs.

The canal-side mill village of Slaithwaite, locally pronounced as Slawit, is regarded as one of Yorkshire’s best-kept secrets – a genuine hidden treasure that largely remains undiscovered.

Despite being relatively unknown, it’s far from quiet; indeed, independent businesses flourish in this tight-knit community.

Originally established on the foundations of the textiles trade, a strong sense of craftsmanship still lies at the village’s core.

Thanks to its strategic position alongside the River Colne and Huddersfield Narrow Canal, it experienced significant growth during the nation’s 19th-century industrial revolution, with particular emphasis on wool and cotton manufacturing.

What attracts visitors to this quaint village is its diverse collection of unique shops and dining establishments.

The vibrant high street features Cobweb Antiques shop alongside an antiques warehouse and charming independent boutiques including Otso Clothing, Acorn and Pip, Every Cloud and SOS Interior and Gifts – providing an unparalleled shopping experience.

When you’ve had your fill of browsing, there are numerous spots to take a break and grab something to eat – you’ll be spoilt for choice in the village centre.

Whether it’s independent eateries such as Nom, Ruddi’s and the Cookhouse or classic boozers like the Old Mill and the Rose and Crown, visitors could easily while away an entire day sampling the culinary delights of Slaithwaite.

Based on TripAdvisor feedback, Vanilla Bean should top your list – a charming little café dishing up homemade sandwiches, quality coffees and artisan ice cream. One satisfied customer said: “I love Vanilla Bean. The staff are welcoming, friendly and helpful.

“The food is excellent, and the prices are affordable. The menu has plenty of choice, all of which is superb. “Really, one is spoilt for choice.”

The Black Bull, meanwhile, attracts locals and visitors alike with its traditional charm and inviting ambience.

A visitor said: “Called in for a bite to eat and at the outset, received a very warm and friendly welcome. This was entirely matched by the quality of the hand-pulled beers on offer, demonstrating that someone knew how to keep a good cellar. The delight continued when the meals arrived.”

Once a crucial artery of the Industrial Revolution, the village’s canal served to transport goods between the mills.

Today it provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely summer walk as it winds gently through the village, whilst the historic mills stand as lasting reminders of its prosperous past.

The Spa Mill on New Street remains a striking landmark, towering over the area since 1907, whilst Globe Mills on Bridge Street stands as an abandoned but intact mill complex.

Swaithwaite boasts several other listed structures, including a church dating back to the 13th century and an array of fascinating stone-built farmhouses and cottages scattered throughout the village.

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This charming village has been dubbed a ‘hidden gem’ by travellers and it’s packed with historic sites and highly-rated cosy food spots serving some of the best treats.

Positioned along the St Oswald’s Way walking route, between Rothbury and Warkworth, lies a delightful hidden gem village that ranks among Northumberland’s best-kept secrets.

Tucked away beside the River Coquet, this small village gained fame for accommodating Oliver Cromwell during his journey to the Battle of Dunbar. It sits 8.9 miles from Alnwick and 12 miles from Morpeth, just 37 miles south of the Scottish border.

Felton village offers an ideal blend of historic and modern elements, particularly around its centre. Two distinct bridges, positioned close together, link Felton with the opposite bank of the River Coquet.

The historic stone crossing originates from the 15th century and remains closed to vehicles, whilst the more recent concrete structure was constructed in 1926 – both hold Grade II Listed status and draw considerable interest from residents and visitors.

The older crossing – recognised for its historical and architectural significance – regularly hosts key village gatherings, including the beloved wassailing tradition at Christmas, reports Chronicle Live.

Additional historical treasures in this picturesque settlement include the Grade I listed St Michael and All Angels church, constructed around 1200, which appears almost enclosed within another structure due to numerous extensions and modifications over the centuries.

Rambling and angling represent two favourite pastimes for both locals and tourists in Felton, with the River Coquet readily reachable via the village centre. Beyond that, Felton boasts two highly-regarded food and drink destinations.

First up is The Northumberland Arms – a beautifully restored 1820s coaching inn originally built by the 3rd Duke of Northumberland.

This delightful historic treasure sits opposite the river near Felton and boasts a River Room Conservatory alongside a bar, restaurant and six ensuite luxury bedrooms.

One delighted guest wrote on Tripadvisor: “The hotel is a lovely historic building in a great setting, easy access to river walks.

“The rooms were attractive , clean and spacious, I thought fabulous, not what I expected when I walked through the door of an old village pub.”

For visitors seeking a brief refreshment stop in Felton, there’s an ideal option available. An artisan bakery named The Running Fox, cherished by locals, has been delighting guests for years.

Since welcoming its first customers in 2011, The Running Fox has become renowned for its afternoon teas and baked goods.

Set in stunning rural surroundings, The Running Fox nestles beside the River Coquet and is encircled by numerous scenic country walks.

One satisfied customer left a glowing review on Tripadvisor for the bakery, writing: “One of the best afternoon teas. Afternoon tea, freshly made sandwiches which were delicious various fillings to choose from with home made bread, such a change from the usual pre made cardboard efforts you get in other places, choice of a wedge of pie or quiche, scones fabulously light, and a slice of cake also homemade from huge selection. Breakfast and lunch menu also looked very appealing. Service excellent, staff very friendly and helpful.”

Another visitor shared their praise, commenting: “I think that the Afternoon Tea offered at the Running Fox is outstanding – great value for money and the food; the variety and the quality are always excellent! We will be back (again!)”

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Northumberland is famed for its rugged coastline, ancient castles and unspoiled natural beauty. Sykes Cottages has a range of places to stay starting from £38 per night

This charming North Lincolnshire village offers the perfect day trip for nature lovers, with scenic estuary walks, three traditional pubs, and stunning Humber Bridge views

In the north of Lincolnshire sits a tranquil village offering the ideal retreat for waterside strolls leading towards the East Coast sea.

A gentle stream meanders through the village of Barrow upon Humber, flowing towards Barrow Haven and out into the estuary that connects to the North Sea. The charming little village is positioned just off the south bank of the Humber Estuary and is merely a quick train journey from beloved seaside spots including Cleethorpes and Grimsby.

What draws visitors to the area is the picturesque walking path, called the Barrow Haven and Humber Estuary trail. The route guides you across diverse landscapes, showcasing 1,000 years of heritage from Viking fortifications to Victorian architecture and, naturally, the updated wildlife reserve.

A tiny settlement beyond the village, Barrow Haven, is tucked along the Humber Estuary, serving as the historic ferry crossing and a location where vessels would dock.

Today it continues to be a beloved destination for wildlife enthusiasts eager to experience its thriving natural environment.

Particularly noteworthy, a favoured attraction for passionate walkers is the celebrated Humber Bridge, located just three miles away and a brief drive from Barrow upon Humber.

When it was built in 1981, the bridge represented a remarkable feat of 20th century engineering as the world’s longest single-span suspension bridge.

The sheer magnitude of the structure is hard to comprehend until you’re standing beneath it or strolling along it, a popular choice for those seeking a better view.

The iconic bridge links Barton on the South Bank with Hull on the North Bank, previously necessitating a lengthy and challenging detour.

Visitors have labelled the bridge as a “must-see”, with one individual declaring it their “favourite bridge”.

A TripAdvisor review says: “We parked at the viewing point and sat on a bench to take in the beautiful view of this bridge that crosses the Humber.

“Constructed in the 1980s, it’s possible to walk across it, and the toll for cars is £1.50. It was fascinating to see it up close and observe how quiet the traffic seemed.”

Within the village, there are three traditional pubs, all adored by locals, providing a snug spot to unwind during your Lincolnshire explorations.

The Royal Oak, Harrisons and Six Bells are practically adjacent to each other and within walking distance of The Haven Inn, nestled between the village and its neighbouring settlement, Barrow Haven.

A recent guest recounted their experience at the Inn, writing: “Lovely country pub and restaurant, excellent service and very pleasant staff who are efficient, food is hot and fresh , we all ate something different and every meal was very good, reasonably priced.”

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