underrated

A market town in Worcestershire has been crowned as one of the top three happiest places to live thanks to its scenic beauty, accessibility and community charm

The happiest places to live in Britain have been ranked and a little-known gem has cracked the top three. The medieval market town beat out beloved cities like Lewes, Perth and Aberystwyth with its charming atmosphere and architectural feats.

Evesham is the second happiest place to live in Britain, according to the Guardian. The town in Worcestershire comes in just behind Berwick-upon-Tweed which snagged the first place spot and before Caernarfon in Wales in the third spot.

Evesham is known as the “asparagus capital of the UK” – an odd moniker to be sure, but one it holds proudly as the host of the annual British Asparagus festival. In fact for centuries, the Vale of Evesham has been considered the fruit and vegetable basket of England.

Visitors will have plenty of opportunity to sample the highest quality produce and can stop by a pick-your-own-fruit and vegetable field. One of the best-known farms in the area is Oaklands Fruit Farm.

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The farm was established over a decade ago and specialised in the production of high-quality strawberries. The production season starts in April and runs through to October so you’ll have ample time to try its daily-picked produce.

Sitting on the banks of the River Avon, Evesham is also renowned for its impressive landscape. According to Country Living the town is “full of charm and beautiful scenery” which explains why it’s such a great place to live.

Evesham is also home to the award-winning Abbey Park – the site where Evesham Abbey once stood as the third largest Abbey in England. From here, visitors will be within walking distance to the joint Almonry Museum and Tourist Information Centre.

The information centre is housed within a 14th century building and details the rich history of the town. The building was once home to the Almoner (chaplain or church officer), who was one of the monks of the Benedictine Abbey.

Today, the Almonry is a great place for families and friends to sit in the beautiful garden or take in one of the exciting children’s workshops or exhibitions that are hosted year-round. These family-friendly fixtures are a key factor that makes the area so distinctly enjoyable for residents.

If that’s not enough to convince you, Evesham is only a bus ride away from Stratford-upon-Avon. The town’s close proximity to Stratford means locals – and visitors – can enjoy many of the Shakespearean attractions and events that take place each year.

25 happiest places to live in Britain

• Berwick-upon-Tweed, England
• Evesham, England
• Caernarfon, Wales
• Durham, England
• York, England
• Padiham, England
• Devizes, England
• Lewes, England
• Newport, Isle of Wight, England
• Exeter, England
• Penzance, England
• Chichester, England
• Cirencester, England
• Aylesbury, England
• Chesterfield, England
• Shrewsbury, England
• Worcester, England
• Perth, Scotland
• Haddington, Scotland
• Aberystwyth, Wales
• The Ridgeway, Enfield, London
• Surbiton North, London
• Clapham Junction, London
• Bounds Green, London
• Bromley, London

This seaside town in Yorkshire is home to an award-winning beach and newly rebuilt promenade, though it is unfortunately overlooked by flashier resort towns

You may not have heard of this charming seaside town, but that’s exactly why it should be the setting of your next staycation. Often overlooked by Brits who beeline for destinations like Filey and Scarborough, this Yorkshire town is ideal for a quiet, cultural escape.

Withernsea has all the landmarks of a classic British seaside resort, except for the massive crowds. Travellers can peruse the local fish and chip shops and arcades without the long queues and exceptional mark-ups, and also enjoy an award-winning beach in peace.

Withernsea’s beach stretches for miles along the clear waters of the North Sea. The beach has managed to keep its Blue Flag status by maintaining exceptional water quality standards and shore cleanliness, going above and beyond to ensure its facilities are well managed.

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The seaside town also recently redesigned and rebuilt its promenade and now boasts garden and play areas, as well as an open-air stage for summer entertainment. On the promenade, the Pier Towers are now the last surviving parts of the once-thriving 19th century pier.

Withernsea’s wide promenade reaches north and south from Pier Towers, the historic entrance to a once 1,200-foot long pier, built in 1877. The pier was continually reduced in length after consistent damage from ships before it was eventually removed in full.

While the pier is no longer there, the Pier Towers mark the place where it once stood and a model of the pier stands on the promenade close to the towers with plaques that describe its gradual demise. The Towers were fully restored in 2019 and are currently operated by the Withernsea Pier and Promenade Association.

The new Towers were opened to the public in June 2020 and contain several exhibitions and art and craft stalls. Within the structure, visitors can read the plans for the new Withernsea Pier, the Coastal Change Observatory, Windmills of Holderness and historic pictures of Withernsea.

Today, the Towers also represent the town’s maritime history, which can be explored at the museum located in the inland lighthouse. The famous lighthouse towers 127 feet above the beach and is the home of the Lighthouse Museum.

The distinct serenity of the area has made the town particularly popular with retirees looking to escape the chaos of the city. Though there are growing concerns among residents about the local economy with a high turnover of independent businesses on the high street.

Valley Gardens is a must-visit spot, defined by its beautifully landscaped open space with ample seating. The Valley Gardens is the venue for the popular annual Summertime Special, and throughout the season its a hub for events in Withernsea.

Another annual event to keep an eye out for is Withernsea’s Blue Light Weekend. The event pays tribute to the emergency services and safety forces with a host of demonstrations from emergency teams.

The festival also has live entertainment, interactive exhibitions, games and food stalls. In 2025, the festival will run from August 2 to August 3.

Setenil de las Bodegas is a stunning Andalusian town where whitewashed homes are built into cliffs – offering history, charm, and unforgettable Spanish scenery

Spain has long been a favourite holiday destination for British travellers, with sun-drenched beaches, vibrant cities, and rich culture drawing millions of visitors each year. Yet, for all the allure of hotspots like Barcelona, the Costa del Sol, and the Balearic Islands, many tourists tend to flock to the same familiar places, often overlooking the country’s lesser-known treasures.

One of the most enchanting – and often missed – regions is Andalusia, a diverse and culturally rich area in southern Spain. While iconic cities such as Seville, Granada, and Malaga attract much of the attention, Andalusia hides within its vast and varied landscape a collection of charming, off-the-beaten-track towns that offer something truly extraordinary.

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Setenil de las Bodegas is one such hidden gem. Nestled in the province of Cádiz, roughly equidistant between Seville and Malaga, this small but unforgettable town has been voted one of the most beautiful in all of Spain. And for good reason – Setenil’s claim to fame is its jaw-dropping integration with nature: it is literally built into the side of a cliff.

Locally known as “abrigos bajo las rocas”, or “shelters beneath the rocks”, Setenil’s whitewashed homes are carved directly into massive rock overhangs, creating surreal, shaded streets where stone ceilings loom above you like giant natural canopies. Some streets even feel as though the sky has been replaced with solid rock – a surreal and awe-inspiring sight that leaves visitors speechless.

This unusual construction isn’t just for show – it’s also functional. The rock naturally insulates the houses, keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer. It’s an ingenious example of architecture working in harmony with the landscape, and it’s one of the most photogenic towns in the region.

Despite its global appeal, Setenil is still home to a modest population of around 3,000 people, giving it an authentic, laid-back feel. But don’t be fooled by its quiet charm – this place has a deep and fascinating history.

The name Setenil de las Bodegas has historical roots that go back centuries. “Setenil” is believed to come from the Latin phrase “Septem Nihil”, meaning “seven times nothing.” It refers to the town’s legendary resistance during the Reconquista, the Christian reconquest of Spain from Muslim rule. According to legend, it took the Christians seven attempts and fifteen days to capture Setenil’s fortress, the Nazari castle, perched above the town.

The second part of the name, “de las Bodegas”, translates to “of the wineries,” a nod to the town’s once-thriving wine industry. While vineyards are less prominent today, the area remains renowned for its local almonds, olives, and olive oil, thanks to the rolling fields of olive trees and fertile surrounding land.

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Although Setenil feels worlds away from the tourist trail, it’s relatively easy to reach. The nearest major airport is Malaga, which offers extensive international connections. From there, the drive takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, the smaller Jerez Airport is closer but mostly serves domestic flights. If you’re planning to visit nearby Ronda, another famous white town perched dramatically on a cliff, Setenil is just 30 minutes away by car.

Hiring a car is highly recommended—not just for convenience, but because the drive itself is part of the experience. The route from Olvera to Setenil is particularly stunning, winding through sunflower fields, rolling hills, and endless groves of olive trees. The scenic countryside alone makes the trip worthwhile.

While Setenil can be explored in a day, many travellers choose to stay overnight in one of the charming guesthouses or cave-style homes available on platforms like Airbnb. Dining under the rock-covered streets – especially in one of the local tapas bars or cafés – is an experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

In an age where travel is often about seeking the extraordinary, Setenil de las Bodegas offers exactly that. It’s a place where history, nature, and human ingenuity blend seamlessly into a setting so unique, it feels almost otherworldly.

So if you’re planning your next trip to Spain and looking to go beyond the usual suspects, skip the crowds and take a detour to Setenil – one of Andalusia’s best-kept secrets, and truly one of Spain’s most spectacular small towns.

Brits looking for a city break with gorgeous beaches, amazing food and budget-friendly accommodation may want to check out one underrated gem that travel experts love

Greece is a firm favourite with Brits looking for sun-soaked holidays including gorgeous beaches, swim-friendly waters and amazing food; but its popularity can mean that getaways can be crowded and expensive.

However, there’s one lesser-known spot on the mainland that travel insiders have praised for offering all the above, “without tourist price hikes” that you’d find at hotspots like Athens, or islands like Rhodes, Crete and Mykonos.

The experts at Ski Vertigo have named Nafplio as one of their go-to underrated spots, adding that while most tourists will miss it, it remains a firm favourite with locals thanks to its beautiful coastal views and lack of larger crowds.

“Often overshadowed by island resorts, Nafplio on the mainland is a favourite among Greeks themselves,” they explained. “Expect great food, romantic alleyways, and sea views – without tourist price hikes”.

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Nafplio has everything you could want for a mix of city break and beach holiday. The city’s cobbled streets are home to heaps of shops, hotels and of course restaurants where you can tuck into some of that world-famous Greek cuisine. (In fact, you can also find some brilliant bakeries serving up some classic Greek pastries that are sure to appeal to anyone with a sweet tooth!).

It’s also worth a stroll to the marina and harbour from which you can take in some gorgeous coastal views, or you can go exploring thanks to the plethora of historic castles, churches and neoclassical architecture, as well as a range of museums where you can learn more about Greece’s fascinating history.

Meanwhile, sun-seekers who’d like to spend a day on the beach won’t be disappointed. For a start there’s Nafplio’s city beach, a small pebbled bay right on the edge of the city, and by the crystalline waters. However if it’s sand you’re after, then you may want to head over to Karathona beach which is always a hit with visitors thanks to its eucalyptus tree-lined sandy shores and amenities including watersports facilities.

It’s also worth leaving space on the itinerary to visit the nearby fishing village of Tolo, which boasts a postcard-worthy golden sandy beach that’s ideal for families thanks to the swim-friendly waters, and a few eateries where you can pick up a snack or use the loos. Tolo also has plenty of hotels and campsites right by the beach for those wanting to spend a bit more time exploring the area.

Although there are no direct flights to Nafplio from the UK, it’s still fairly easy for Brits to visit. One of the easiest routes is to fly to Athens – for which there are plenty of direct flights with the likes of Jet2, easyJet, British Airways and Ryanair – and then to get the ferry across, which takes just over two hours. The ferry between the two cities runs multiple times a day, so there’s plenty of opportunity to either explore Athens and travel on a later day, or grab an early flight and be at Nafplio in time for some sunset cocktails overlooking the harbour!

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TikTok users are raving about this ‘underrated’ UK seaside town – and it’s no wonder why. The destination boasts two beaches, a charming lighthouse and an award-winning bakery

The prospect of a sunny summer has many Brits contemplating a staycation this year instead of jetting off overseas. Staycations, which became exceedingly popular during the Covid pandemic, are proving to be just as enjoyable and sun-soaked as trips abroad – and they often come with less hassle and a smaller price tag.

With summer around the corner, it’s the perfect time to discover some of Britain’s finest beaches, perhaps visiting a coastal town that’s new to you? TikTok influencer and travel expert @lotteboo3 took to the platform to shine a light on what she considers an “underrated” seaside treasure.

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Southwold, hailed as a “classic seaside town” by the Express, is nestled in Suffolk and ticks all the boxes for a quintessential British staycation.

The town is home to two inviting beaches, Southwold Pier Beach to the north and Southwold Denes Beach to the south. Holiday-goers will be greeted by rows of quaint, brightly coloured beach huts that line the shore, injecting vibrant butter yellows, whites, and blues into the scenery.

The TikTok user posted footage of an “award-winning bakery”, overflowing with delectable sausage rolls, gingerbread men, croissants, and assorted pastries.

She also highlighted a “charming lighthouse” – perfect for those holiday photos – and a magnificent pier where visitors can leave their mark by adding personalised plaques.

The official Southwold Pier website even offers a Pier Plaque Creator, giving tourists the chance to craft their own plaque as a “great gift, a wonderful surprise or a memento of your visit”.

Holidaymakers heading to Southwold are in for a treat, with the chance to meander through its picturesque streets dotted with colourful abodes, discover distinctive independent boutiques, and relish traditional coastal pleasures such as ice cream.

Lotte’s TikTok showcase of Southwold has captured the imagination of social media users, racking up nearly 32,000 likes and over 3,200 saves.

The post has sparked some serious wanderlust, prompting more than 1,000 shares as people plot their next escape. Admiring comments flooded in from fans of the town, with one user, @Goodgriefisthatthetime, professing: “Worked at scores of seaside towns all over the UK. By far the cleanest, well looked after.”

Meanwhile, Laura Marsh joined in the chorus, saying, “We live down the road from Southwold, definitely one of our happy places. Great beer and fish and chips.”

Numerous commenters labelled Southwold as their “happy place”, including Bethany who revealed, “I absolutely love it here I go every year, it’s like a second home”.

Adding to the endorsements, Caitlin Harvey shared her six-year working experience in Southwold, concluding: “Worked here for six years. Can’t deny that it’s actually a lovely place to visit.”

Europe’s sunniest city not only boasts hot weather but it’s also got cathedrals, a gorgeous harbour and amazing food – and you can find cheap direct flights with easyJet and Ryanair

Summer is fast approaching, but Brits chasing some hot and sunny weather may want to start planning a trip to the breathtaking city of Cartagena, Spain.

That’s because the historic port city has been named Europe’s sunniest city by the travel experts over at Holidu, who have estimated that it boasts an average of 283 sunshine hours every month. Cartagena may not be a hidden gem – cruise fans will no doubt know it as one of the ports where plenty of ships dock as part of their itineraries.

However, it remains underrated as most people will then flock to nearby Alicante or Murcia for their adventures, so the sun-soaked spot doesn’t always have to deal with the big crowds during peak months.

The good news for Brits is that you won’t need to break the bank to visit either. The nearest airport is Murcia, approximately an hour’s drive away, with flights from £16.62 each way available from the likes of Ryanair and easyJet. Meanwhile Holidu has uncovered a number of holiday rentals in Cartagena starting from £30 a night, although typically the cheapest rates fall outside of the school holidays.

Those who do a bit of exploring around the city won’t be disappointed, thanks to a plethora of gorgeous architecture, fascinating museums and of course, plenty of spots to sample some of that mouthwatering Spanish fare. The Roman amphitheatre remains one of the biggest highlights for any history fan, especially with the adjacent museum that delves into Roman history, and the ongoing project and renovations to sustain the landmark.

Meanwhile the ‘Casa de la Fortuna’ aka the House of Fortunes offers another interesting glimpse into Roman life, specifically what it might have been like day-to-day for residents.

Then of course it’s well worth just having a relaxed wander through the city to take in the shops and all-important tapas bars, not to mention there are plenty of scenic walks so you can enjoy views of the ships and yachts that dock into the harbour throughout the day.

For those who want a bit of downtime on the beach, there are a few spots along the coast where you can relax on sandy and pebbled shores, but if the beaches are the main focus of your holidays, then you may want to head to the likes of Barcelona or Alicante instead, where you’ll find those picture-perfect golden sands, as well as a plethora of beachfront hotels and holiday homes.

Of course while it’s no secret that Spain is blessed with plenty of hot and sunny months, it’s definitely the European hotspot for sunseekers; the research found that the country is home to nine of the top 10 sunniest destinations on the continent! You can check out the full list below for a dose of inspiration.

Europe’s top 10 sunniest cities

1. Cartagena, Spain
2. Alicante, Spain
3. Malaga, Spain
4. Murcia, Spain
5. Granada, Spain
6. Catania, Spain
7. Seville, Spain
8. Cordoba, Spain
9. Marseille, France,
10. Madrid, Spain

You can find out more on holidu.co.uk.