gem

This peaceful South Lakes village offers a quieter alternative with River Brathay access, kayaking, Loughrigg walks, and family activities

Millions flock to the Lake District annually seeking respite from the chaos of daily life. Yet, countless holidaymakers gravitate towards the crowded hotspots of Windermere, Kendal, and Ambleside, which means their walks may prove less tranquil than anticipated, whilst they overlook some of the more hidden corners that the national park boasts.

One such secret treasure nestled in the South Lakes region is Clappersgate, a tranquil village situated on the fringes of Ambleside. Jerry Rebbeck, a regional specialist at Wheelwrights Holiday Cottages, has championed the settlement’s appeal, suggesting it as an ideal base for those exploring the vicinity.

He said: “Clappersgate has great access to the River Brathay, making it a great spot for adventurous visitors who want to paddleboard or kayak towards Waterhead or further onto Windermere.

“If you are not the adventurous type, you can enjoy the majestic riverside setting, taking in the views with a tipple of your choice or a book in a more secluded area.”

For those who prefer rambling, there are excellent routes directly from Clappersgate leading up to the Loughrigg Circular, which offers stunning panoramas across Windermere, and serves as an ideal lower-altitude trek when weather obscures the loftier peaks.

Despite being a compact settlement, Clappersgate brims with heritage, boasting numerous period buildings, including the remarkable Clappersgate Bridge.

The Grade II listed bridge, dating back to the 17th century, is a favourite spot for walkers in the area, owing to its views over the river and surrounding greenery.

Jerry added: “Clappersgate also has convenient access to nearby indoor activities, making it a brilliant place for families to stay in case of those unexpected rainy days, including the Lake District Aquarium and a neo-gothic Wray Castle.

“There are lovely historic houses and holiday cottages in Clappersgate for those wishing to stay in the area.

“The village is tucked away from the crowds, yet within easy reach of numerous landmarks and boasts stunning scenery – offering the perfect balance between relaxation and exploring the Lakes.”

STARGAZE for days at this island gem, says Associate Editor Sarah Barns.

The Pad

With a slipper bath, outdoor shower and a cloud-like king-size bed, Glamping The Wight Way’s four plush safari tents are ideal for giving off-grid life a go.

Set in lush meadows between Yarmouth and Freshwater, expect solar-panel lighting and USB charging points, plus three spacious bedrooms, a sofa bed, a well-equipped kitchen and a wood burner.

We loved toasting marshmallows on the fire bowl overlooking the River Yar – one of the best paddleboarding spots in the UK – and gazing at the starry night skies.

There are also countryside walks, cycling trails and horse-riding opportunities, as well as binoculars in the dresser for spotting red squirrels and an Isle of Wight edition of Monopoly.

Nab the swing chair and watch the kids run around with the rounders set as the fairy lights twinkle.

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I drove Irish Route 66 with deserted golden beaches and pirate-like islands

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Explore

The golden beaches at Freshwater Bay, Compton Bay and Colwell Bay are nearby, and you’re only five minutes’ drive from Tapnell Farm Park with its go-karts, jumping pillows, sledge slides, soft play and an array of animals.

The Wallaby Walkabout, where you get to feed the marsupials, is a particular hit.

Entry costs from £8 per adult, £10 per child (Tapnellfarm.com).

Robin Hill is a 30-minute drive away, offering 88 acres of adventure, with 35 rides, treetop walks, climbing walls, mini diggers and electric boats.

The exhilarating quarter-mile downhill toboggan ride will have even the big kids screaming.

Entry costs from £16.49 per person over 1m (Robin-hill.com).

No trip to the island is complete without a visit to The Needles, just 10 minutes’ drive from your tent.

Take a breathtaking chairlift down to Alum Bay beach to see the famous cliffs up close, from £6 one way, then putt your way around the 11-hole Jurassic Adventure Golf course or hop on the traditional horse carousel (Theneedles.co.uk).

Refuel

Follow in Kate Winslet and Benedict Cumberbatch’s footsteps and dine at The Hut in Colwell Bay, a beachfront restaurant dubbed the Chiltern Firehouse of the Solent.

The restaurant’s branded Jeep will pick you up in Yarmouth harbour, so you can enjoy a glass (or three) of Mirabello rosé, £37 a bottle.

The seafood is all sourced from the south coast – we devoured lemon sole, £36, with fries and tomato salad, £6 each, followed by banoffee pie, £10 (Thehutcolwell.co.uk).

Harbourside restaurant The Terrace in Yarmouth is another popular spot.

Order the divine Cornish cod with pea fritter and potato rosti, £27, and the rich dark chocolate mousse with salted chocolate crumble, £11 (Theterraceiow.co.uk).

For quick bites, Off The Rails, set on the old railway line in Yarmouth, does a cracking bacon sandwich, £8 (Offtherailsyarmouth.co.uk).

And PO41 Coffee House serves up island-brewed teas, home-made cake and delicious picnic essentials – we loved the orange and almond loaf, £8.75 (Po41coffeehouse.com).

Book It

Two-night stays for up to eight people at Glamping The Wight Way cost from £650 (Glampingthewightway.co.uk).

This is the only UK destination that has perfectly preserved city walls – and you can follow them all the way around

Tourists have hailed this city as a hidden gem brimming with breathtaking scenery and vibrant heritage, whilst being steeped in Roman, Norman and English history. A brief train ride from Manchester, Liverpool and North Wales, this city ranks amongst Britain’s most picturesque cities.

Chester has claimed the top spot for UK city breaks in 2026, and it’s easy to see why. The historic walled city offers an impressive 71% of its attractions rated four stars or above on TripAdvisor, paired with hotel prices averaging just £80 per night.

At £66 for a meal for two and £2.38 for a pint, it delivers a genuinely affordable weekend away without skimping on things to see and do. Roman ruins, Tudor-era architecture, and excellent shopping along the famous Rows make Chester a destination that punches well above its weight.

Its city walls provide a beautiful 45-minute walk around the city. The fortifications are the oldest, longest and most complete in Britain, parts of which are almost 2,000 years old.

The walk gives enchanting views into the city and gives a fantastic insight into Chester’s long history.

Visitors can journey through centuries past whilst strolling the city’s meandering streets and Roman Walls – Britain’s most intact example. No stranger to accolades, Chester additionally features the nation’s largest outlet village on its periphery, with vendors operating from a delightful 700-year-old medieval gallery.

Chester Cathedral exceeds 1,000 years in age, showcasing remarkable period architecture and exceptional medieval mosaics. The award-winning Tower Tour can gives stunning panoramic Cathedral vistas from its view points.

The tour revolves around climbing the Cathedral’s tower, which looks out over five counties – you can even see Wales on a clear day.

Families looking for an entertaining day trip can explore Chester Zoo, home to 35,000 creatures distributed throughout 128 acres of rainforests, caverns and marshlands. The zoo lately unveiled sunrise-view safari lodges for visitors wanting a more long-term experience.

The city’s stunning meandering lanes also boast a thriving café culture, with numerous independent establishments on offer. Venues such as Bean & Cole and Jaunty Goat serve as popular destinations for speciality coffee, whilst The Hollies Farm Shop stocks delicious regional fare.

For those considering a summer trip, Chester’s prize-winning racecourse hosts meetings between May and October, providing an excellent choice for some spirited entertainment.

Chester also serves as the backdrop for renowned soap Hollyoaks, with unforgettable moments like the heartbreaking death of Lily McQueen captured at Chester railway station. Devotees of the programme can enjoy guided walking tours for photography opportunities.

The city originated in AD 79 as a Roman fortress, and prospered through commerce along the River Dee. Today, visitors can enjoy a more leisurely evening on a sightseeing cruise of Chester by boat, or participate in a themed evening voyage down the Dee.

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This town has been named among “Spain’s most secret destinations” by European Best Destinations, with colourful houses, fresh seafood and vibrant festivals

Tucked away between verdant rolling hills and the Cantabrian Sea lies a hidden gem of a village that European Best Destinations has crowned amongst “Spain’s most secret destinations”. Cudillero, situated in the Asturias region, is celebrated for its enchanting winding alleyways, vibrant houses down the slopes, and thriving fishing harbour.

Fishing has long been the lifeblood of the village’s economy, and today you can still observe fishermen carrying out their age-old routines along the waterside. Tourists can meander along the harbour, observe the fishing vessels gently rocking in the water, and savour fresh seafood and traditional northern specialities in the village’s eateries.

Asturian gastronomy, originating from the Asturias region in northern Spain, is celebrated for its robust and richly flavoured fare that frequently showcases fresh seafood, substantial stews, and locally procured produce, reports the Express.

Arguably its most iconic offering, the Fabada Asturiana, is a sumptuous and soul-warming bean casserole prepared with large white beans (fabes), chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), and pork.

Another comforting treat worth sampling during the chillier seasons is the Caldereta de Pescado, an Asturian seafood casserole that highlights the region’s maritime treasures.

It comprises an assortment of fish and seafood including hake, monkfish, prawns, and clams, simmered in a richly flavoured stock with tomatoes, onions, and garlic.

The Empanada Asturiana, a savoury pastry filled with tuna, chorizo, or other ingredients is a beloved snack in Asturias and often taken on picnic trips and to family events by locals.

Visitors to this corner of Spain simply must sample the traditional Asturian Cider, known locally as Sidra Asturiana, which is customarily poured from a considerable height to oxygenate it and amplify its taste.

Cudillero is a village that invites discovery, boasting a historic quarter resembling a labyrinth of narrow, twisting lanes flanked by quintessential Asturian dwellings, many decorated with vibrant balconies with pots brimming with flowers.

Perched atop the village on a clifftop commanding views of the ocean sits the Church of Santa María, providing sweeping vistas across the vegetation-clad surrounding landscape.

Nature lovers will find Cudillero offers abundant opportunities for adventure, with neighbouring walking routes winding through dramatic coastal terrain and lush woodland.

Beyond its scenic splendour and seafaring character, Cudillero is also celebrated for its lively festivals held year-round, including L’Amuravela, which occurs every June 29th and commences with a local resident delivering, in rhyme and “pixueto” dialect, a sermon wittily recapping the year’s events whilst seeking divine protection for the 12 months ahead.

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People are raving on about the drama series which is believed to be a ‘hidden gem’ and it’s available on a number of TV networks, including Disney+. So have you seen this before?

Looking for the next big TV series to binge-watch? It can be hard finding a new show to watch, especially if you’ve just finished something decent on Netflix or Amazon Prime.

Now people are raving on about a ‘hidden gem’ they found – and it’s available on a number of TV networks, including Disney+. After one TV fan asked for recommendations in a popular thread, many people flooded the comments section where they offered a number of suggestions, one of them being Will Trent, a American police TV drama. The series follows a Special Agent of the Georgia Bureau of Investigations.

As a child, Trent was abandoned and forced to endure a harsh coming-of-age in Atlanta’s overwhelmed foster care system. It was based on one of prolific New York Times author Karin Slaughter’s bestselling books.

The Reddit post read: “Any current network (CBS, ABC, NBC, etc.) TV shows that are any good? Most of the shows I currently watch are on streaming services and I’m wondering if there’s any hidden gems I’m missing out on.”

Many people shared their suggestions, including High Potential and The Rookie.

But plenty of viewers labelled Will Trent as a must-see. The series, which is also available on other network channels, can be streamed on Disney+ for subscribers.

The series was developed by Liz Heldens and Daniel T. Thomsen which stars Ramón Rodríguez and premiered on January 3, 2023, on ABC.

A year later in April, the series was renewed for a third season which landed on January 7, 2025. Then months later, the series was given the green light for a fourth season which finally premiered on January 6, this year.

The series follows Will who grew up in the Atlanta foster care system after being abandoned as a child. Despite being dyslexic and his upbringing having a lasting effect on him, he became a Special Agent in the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI).

Will, a highly observant character, had been assigned a corruption case involving the Atlanta Police Department which shares an office building with the GBI.

The story also shows his on-again off-again relationship with APD Detective Angie Polaski, a childhood friend from the foster care system.

Will Trent has a 7.7 out of 10 rating on IMDb and 83% on Rotten Tomatoes. To watch it on Disney+, you must have a subscription on the streaming platform.

This tiny European island is a spectacular gem hidden in plain sight boasting incredible food, breathtaking views and fun activities for travellers to indulge in without breaking the bank.

While most Brits will have heard of the island nation of Malta, relatively few are aware of its sister island, accessible via a short ferry journey.

A more tranquil, less touristy and altogether more laid-back option compared to mainland Malta, this tiny island is a spectacular gem hidden in plain view.

Despite its modest size, Gozo delivers an impressive array of attractions, with diverse sites, pursuits and scenery simply crying out to be discovered.

Reaching Gozo is straightforward – begin by flying into Malta’s principal international airport, then hop aboard either a brief but picturesque 25-minute ferry from the Cirkewwa terminal in Malta’s north or a 45-minute crossing from the gorgeous capital Valletta to Gozo.

UK flights to Malta are reasonably priced at present – merely £35 one-way at the time of writing for a direct service from London Stansted Airport to Malta International Airport on February 26, with complimentary allowance for one cabin bag included, reports the Express.

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Another advantage of visiting Gozo during the February/March period is its climate – a pleasant range spanning 16C to 20C, offering classic Mediterranean sunshine and gentle breezes to keep you perfectly comfortable on a bright, sunny afternoon.

The icing on the cake? Beverages in Gozo are inexpensive – refreshing cold pints of excellent local beer for £1.80 – every traveller’s fantasy.

Things to do in Gozo

Gozo boasts an abundance of pristine beaches, nestled away from the tourist bustle. The island’s crystal-clear, azure waters and distinctive red-tinged sands create an enchanting atmosphere, ideal for snorkelling, taking a dip, or simply unwinding beneath the Mediterranean sun.

Ramla Bay, one of Gozo’s finest beaches, has been rightfully designated as a Natura 2000 protected site. Visit Gozo, the island’s official tourism authority, notes: “Despite its popularity, Ramla Bay remains wonderfully undeveloped, preserving its natural charm.

“There are a few cafes and a small stall set back from the beach, providing refreshments without compromising the area’s serene atmosphere.”

Brimming with experiences and activities for visitors to enjoy, Gozo presents a wealth of distinctive attractions.

The Ġgantija temples in Gozo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, rank amongst the planet’s oldest and most excellently preserved free-standing structures. This magnificent site is enveloped by verdant countryside and features two colossal temples awaiting discovery.

Indeed, according to local legend, the enormous rocks forming these temples led inhabitants to believe they had been constructed by giants.

The Ta’ Kola Windmill represents another jewel of the island, offering guests a fascinating glimpse into how Gozitans traditionally ground wheat to produce bread and other baked delicacies in bygone times. Dubbed the ‘island of the three hills’, Gozo’s landscape is characterised by distinctive flat-topped elevations that prove absolutely mesmerising.

The trio of most notable peaks are widely recognised as Xagħra hill, the Nadur hill, and Żebbuġ.

Additionally, there’s the Cittadella, Gozo’s freshly renovated historic settlement nestled within the island’s capital, Victoria (Rabat), representing another essential destination should you venture to this magnificent haven.

However, Gozo offers far more than scenic attractions – the island features four Michelin guide establishments – Tmun, Level Nine at The Grand, Al Sale, and Ta’ Frenc – poised to whisk you away on an exquisite gastronomic adventure.

Gozo’s culinary and viticulture offerings are practically unrivalled, with the island’s nutrient-dense terrain and distinctive microclimate yielding some of the finest wines globally. Food and wine excursions have naturally become hugely popular amongst tourists, and understandably so.

Those seeking unconventional experiences need look no further than the age-old practice of milking sheep and goats in Gozo, subsequently crafted into authentic Gozitan cheese. For energetic pursuits, clifftop rambles, kayaking and cycling present excellent choices for an ideal outing.

Mountain biking, kayaking and clifftop trekking all await active travellers, whilst Gozo’s food and wine culture emphasises premium locally-sourced ingredients and ocean-fresh seafood.

Regardless of your preferences, this Maltese gem is genuinely exceptional, and the limited tourist numbers make exploration all the more delightful.

At one of the most popular tourist destinations, which dates back more than 5,000 years, visitors throw coins into a toilet in what they believe is a wishing well

The UK’s ‘lost city’ has been attracting tourists from around the world – but most of them want to toss pennies into a toilet.

Skara Brae, on the Orkney archipelago in Scotland, is a preserved Neolithic village that was inhabited by a farming community around 5,000 years ago. It stands as one of the finest-preserved farming settlements across the British Isles and is known as the “Scottish Pompeii”.

The village was inhabited between 3100 and 2500 BC, and its close proximity to the sea allowed its residents to easily hunt for fish while also growing crops and tending to their various animals. It isn’t exactly clear why Skara Brae was abandoned, but it’s thought to have become uninhabitable due to climate change and severe weather.

READ MORE: Abandoned UK village left a ‘ghost town’ with 33 unfinished new build homes boarded upREAD MORE: I booked a mystery holiday for £79 and thought things couldn’t get worse — they did

It was left largely untouched until a storm in 1850 uncovered the site, revealing its fascinating past and prehistoric dwellings. Following a dig at Skara Brae, remnants of the community were further uncovered, including stone dressers and box beds, along with artefacts such as tools, gaming dice, pots and jewellery.

Together with a substantial chambered tomb (Maes Howe) and two ceremonial stone circles (the Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar), the settlement now forms part of the “Heart of Neolithic Orkney” collection of monuments, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

Dating back thousands of years, the site remains one of the island’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing crowds near and far. In a long-standing tradition, superstitious visitors have frequently thrown pennies into an ancient hole in the ground of the preserved Neolithic village, believing it to be a wishing well.

However, it’s actually a toilet – and not everyone realises. Experts have outlined that the hole in the ground is merely an “old sewer” and a network of well-constructed drains and substantial cisterns.

Local tour guide from Orkney Uncovered, Kinlay Francis, previously shared on Facebook: “For years, people have been throwing money down a subterranean hole in the Skara Brae ground, thinking they are throwing money down a well to make a wish.

“I have great delight in telling my clients and anybody who throws their money down there that they are, in fact, throwing money down a toilet.

“This is the old drain/sewer from the Skara Brae site. It is not, and I repeat, not a wishing well. So don’t go there to spend a penny.”

The post quickly amassed over 2,000 reactions and nearly 150 comments, as people couldn’t believe the hilarious mix-up. One person remarked: “Oh! So! Priceless!”, while a second said: “Really a p*****g well not a wishing well then”.

A third commented: “It’s not a wishing well…it’s a s******g well.” Yet, not everyone was prepared to ditch their beliefs, as one noted: “Still…maybe brings good luck”, and another stated: “Where there is muck, there is brass!”

The confusion hasn’t stopped visitors from marvelling at the Neolithic village, and it’s received outstanding praise on TripAdvisor. One traveller shared: “Skara Brae Prehistoric Village is a must-see if you are in the Orkney Islands. Such an interesting place. You will be blown away by how well-preserved this 5000-year-old site is.”

A second commented: “This was my second time to Skara Brae and it was just as wonderful as the first. The setting of this village is spectacular, and on this visit, the weather was outstanding. On my first visit, the rain was blowing sideways. It is fantastic to view the site and then visit the reconstructed house to see how these people lived. Not so different from us – pretty pots, stone dressers and reasonably comfortable beds with skins as duvets!”

One more noted: “A must-see bucket list experience older than the Giza pyramids. Although the museum is small, the recreated room really brings alive the site. They even had plumbing. Once you are at the site, you can tour the homes from the walkway, which shows the genius of the ancient culture. Plentiful parking with a good gift shop/cafe.”

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Directed by Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor, this “high-octane” action film with Jason Statham proved so popular it was then followed by a 2009 sequel.

An “adrenaline-fueled” action film has been praised as one of Jason Statham‘s best, and it’s now available on ITVX.

Crank, released in 2006, stars Jason Statham as Chev Chelios, a Los Angeles hitman poisoned with a synthetic drug that kills him if his heart rate drops. To survive, he must keep his adrenaline flowing through constant, violent and chaotic actions while tracking down his enemies.

It is a fast-paced film described to be like a “video game” in style, which sees action star Statham at his best as he performs all of his own fight and car stunts.

The film stars Statham in one of his typical roles as an action star, alongside Amy Smart as Eve Lydon, Jose Pablo Cantillo as Ricky Verona, Carlos Sanz as Carlito, and Dwight Yoakam as Doc Miles.

The film was considered a huge success and performed well at the box office, as it grossed $42.9 million (around £31.6 million) worldwide against a $12 million (about £.8.8 million) budget.

Directed by Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor, the film proved so popular it was then followed by a 2009 sequel, Crank: High Voltage.

On film and TV ratings website Rotten Tomatoes, it scored a moderate 62% but fans have still said it’s worth a watch. One review wrote: “Crank is a relentless, high-octane action film that thrives on its breakneck pacing, jump cuts, and kinetic cinematography – all of which are seamlessly integrated into the storytelling. As a genre piece designed to deliver a near-constant dopamine rush, it excels, offering a uniquely immersive and adrenaline-fueled experience.”

A second posted: “Extremely fast-paced and action-packed psychedelic movie that really feels like a (very effective) parody of the state of modern entertainment.”

A third said: “This is a good film. Jason Statham is great and the rest of the cast is good too. The action is wild. Worth a watch if you’re a fan of Statham.”

A fourth added: “This movie is ridiculous but that is what made it a good, fun movie. It’s high-octane and over-the-top scenes made the movie such a joy to watch.”

A fifth said: “Relentlessly paced and full of ‘whoa’ moments – Crank might just be the peak Statham movie. An outlandish one vs 100 action flick that was popularised in the 80s works better here with the wink and nod to the audience that the movie is in on the gag as well.”

Another wrote: “It’s ridiculous, but highly entertaining and funny.” Another shared: “This is pure 00s action. I loved it but it took me a hot minute to appreciate the style. I can see why people wouldn’t enjoy this film but if you want an action film that doesn’t take itself seriously and has some laugh-out-loud moments, Cranks delivers.”

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With its winding cobbled streets, charming cottages and pretty harbour, it’s no wonder a quaint UK fishing village remains one of the country’s most adored coastal spots for visitors

Tucked away on the Cornish coast, about three miles south of Penzance and in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is the village and fishing port of Mousehole.

The picture-postcard hidden gem has seemingly remained unspoiled for years and is where poet and author Dylan Thomas spent significant time, including during his 1937 honeymoon. It was said he treasured the narrow, cobbled streets and fishing harbour and described it as “the loveliest village in England”.

Today, visitors still appreciate the beauty of the sleepy hideaway, with its sandy beach and calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for children to safely play in, a selection of cafes, shops, and galleries for grown-ups to explore, and “sheer beauty” that is perfect for capturing Insta-worthy memories.

READ MORE: Woman visits Victorian train station but is stunned by what’s hidden within wallsREAD MORE: Stunning island ‘bursting with colour’ still sunny in February at 30C

Mousehole, which is actually pronounced ‘Mowzel’, is steeped in history and dates back to the 1300s when it was a prominent harbour and the main port for Mount’s Bay. Pilchards were exported to France, and the trade continued until the late 1880s. Along with other villages on the coastline, Mousehole was attacked by the Spanish in 1595. The only surviving building from the raid was the local pub, the Keigwin Arms. Today, it is a private residence with a plaque in memory of the former owner, Squire Jenkyn Keigwin, who was killed defending his property.

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Famous for its rugged coastline, golden beaches, picture-perfect villages and rich maritime heritage, Cornwall is one of the most-visited corner of the UK. Sykes Cottages has a large number of holiday homes to choose from, with prices from £36 per night.

Now charming granite cottages line the maze-like winding streets, along with independent galleries, gift shops, and places to eat. The Grade II listed Lobster Pot hotel, where Thomas spent his honeymoon, is now a private residence and holiday let. Still, visitors can admire its uninterrupted sea views, which captured the poet’s imagination from other nearby pubs and restaurants.

The Ship Inn, which Thomas also frequently visited, serves seasonal, local food such as fish and chips, mussels, and Sunday roasts, and is situated directly opposite the harbour, making it the perfect spot to recharge the batteries. Inside the harbour is the small, sandy beach, lapped by crystal clear waters, where children can go crabbing or build sandcastles.

Known for its thriving sense of community, Mousehole hosts a variety of festivals and is famed for its Christmas lights during the cooler months. On 19 December every year since 1981, the lights have been turned off to commemorate the eight crew members of the lifeboat service who were lost during a rescue in hurricane-force winds. Tom Bawcock’s Eve is celebrated every 23 December to mark the end of a 16th-century famine. The festival is the birthplace of stargazy pie, which features fish heads poking out of the pastry topping.

Recent visitors to Mousehole soaked up its tranquility and charm, with one writing on Tripadvisor: “Mousehole is a very beautiful place. You can snap off photos all day and never capture all of its quirkiness, quaintness and sheer beauty. As someone with an interest in photography, I found so much to capture.”

Another added: “This village is absolutely stunning and well worth visiting, it’s truly gorgeous.” A third loved the safe beach and local amenities:: “A lovely little harbour with small sandy beach. Safe for children to play. Very picturesque with little cottages surrounding it. The Mousehole is an excellent gift shop with friendly staff. We also visited Jessica’s Dairy to get a cup of tea,” they shared.

This hidden gem is tucked away in West Lancashire with charming attractions and breathtaking views — a truly spectacular getaway.

There’s a secret treasure of a village nestled in West Lancashire which is bursting with delightful attractions and stunning views – and it absolutely deserves a spot on your 2026 travel itinerary.

Boasting a magnificent marina, charming waterfront eateries, Tudor architecture, fantastic pubs and nearby nature reserves plus animal farms – this compact village is genuinely remarkable.

Despite sitting in a prime Lancashire location – positioned where the Leeds and Liverpool Canal meets the River Douglas, Ormskirk and Preston Railway, plus the bustling A59 – it’s frequently ignored thanks to its reputation as a ‘commuter town’, which means most folk simply drive through without giving it a second glance.

Encircled by beautiful countryside and crammed with wonderful attractions, this enchanting settlement provides visitors with far more than initially apparent.

With its distinctive white-painted properties, magnificent marina panoramas, ancient waterway, and superb retail outlets, Rufford village in Lancashire stands as the ultimate destination.

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Magnificent marina

The Leeds Liverpool canal flows directly through Rufford’s centre and connects to St Mary’s Marina plus Fetler’s Wharf Marina, both offering breathtaking panoramas and peaceful waters.

Offering a scenic retreat, Fettlers Wharf Marina sits amid verdant surroundings and creates a perfect backdrop for soaking up the peace and serenity of the local area.

This dog-friendly riverside haven provides waterside dining delights for guests, whilst nature paths and picturesque lakeside strolls enhance its appeal. The well-kept walkways give visitors fantastic chances to enjoy spotting local wildlife and plant life, reports Lancs Live.

Outstanding waterside cafés

Tastebuds at the Wharf is a charming canalside café nestled beside the picturesque Fettlers Wharf Marina.

Serving up various delights such as breakfast, lunch, afternoon teas, and an enticing selection of cakes and scones, during bright spring weather, guests can soak up the rays on the café’s terrace whilst savouring the tranquil marina panorama.

Another exceptional waterside establishment is The Boathouse Brasserie, which commands views across St Mary’s Marina.

Located within a

converted dairy farm, this family-operated venue launched in 2008 and delivers breathtaking perspectives over the thriving marina. The café showcases a delightful alfresco dining space facing the water, featuring its own pergola and cosy outdoor pods for diners to unwind in.

Things to do in Rufford

A trip to Rufford Old Hall is essential. This magnificent Tudor mansion and its colourful gardens have remained in National Trust custody since 1936.

It functioned as the Hesketh family home for more than five centuries before Rufford New Hall was built in Rufford Park.

Fascinatingly, legend has it that the Old Hall’s Great Hall once hosted a young William Shakespeare before his meteoric rise to stardom. Guests can also explore the Old Hall’s stunning Victorian and Edwardian gardens.

Meanwhile, Rufford New Hall was acquired by Lancashire County Council in 1920, before being converted into a pulmonary hospital for tuberculosis patients in 1926. It remains operational as a hospital to this day.

Another site worth discovering in Rufford is the Church of St Mary the Virgin, erected in 1869. This red brick Gothic-style parish church, complete with steeple, holds Grade II Listed status.

The Hesketh Arms, a three-storey property thought to date from the late 18th century, stands as another popular destination for visitors to the village.

This impressive historic inn boasts Grade II listed status and serves everything from traditional ales to pub favourites and dishes featuring seasonal ingredients.

It’s celebrated for welcoming guests with a warm, countryside-pub atmosphere from the moment they arrive, whilst the outside space proves equally delightful, featuring plenty of seating perfect for savouring a drink on summer days.

Situated mere moments from the village centre lies Mere Sands Wood – a nature reserve under the stewardship of the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside.

Boasting 42 hectares of wildlife observation points and walking trails, plus its own visitor centre and café, it makes for an excellent destination for an outing with loved ones.

Other attractions near Rufford include the Windmill Animal Farm, which houses numerous rare breeds of exotic farm animals and boasts indoor and outdoor play areas.

The Martin Mere Wetlands Centre also makes an excellent option for a family day out. This marshland sanctuary and nature reserve carries international significance and provides year-round family-friendly attractions.