village

The town is a haven for those who enjoy a countryside walk as well as fans of this famous sitcom and it’s easy to see why – with stunning views of Yorkshire

If autumn leaves you yearning for a countryside stroll whilst getting up close with nature, this charming town nestled in the Holme Valley provides the ideal getaway.

Famous for its breathtaking panoramic views stretching across Yorkshire, Holmfirth brims with year-round festivities and endless discoveries waiting to be made. Those unfamiliar with this picturesque spot may have actually glimpsed it from their own living rooms whilst tuning into the beloved sitcom Last of the Summer Wine.

This delightful town served as the setting for the characters’ adventures and continues to attract devoted fans of the series, eager to step into what feels like a make-believe world. Yet it’s wonderfully authentic, enveloped by verdant landscapes and positioned merely six miles south of Huddersfield and 14 miles west of Barnsley.

Holmfirth actually houses a dedicated exhibition celebrating the much-loved programme. One visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor, writing: “The building itself is Compo’s house from the series, which is extra special; there are lots of memories, pictures and extras from episodes from the show.

“The visit brought back many childhood memories of something I used to enjoy watching. Well worth a visit, and you have Nora Batty’s house above to grab a photo on the steps.”

The boundary of the Peak District National Park sits merely two miles distant, making Holmfirth a natural pit stop for enthusiastic ramblers and hiking enthusiasts passing through the area. The renowned Holmfirth Circular trail begins in the town centre, winding through the picturesque Hope Valley before returning visitors to the charming cobbled streets where they started.

The stunning circular route takes approximately two to two and a half hours to finish and boasts an excellent 4.6 rating from experienced walkers. Spanning roughly 7.2km in total, the path is considered suitable for people of all fitness levels and walking abilities.

The town’s very own vineyard proves a major attraction, offering visitors hours of wine tasting and sampling premium local vintages. Holmfirth Vineyard provides guests with comprehensive guided tours explaining the wine-making process, culminating in tastings of varieties produced on-site.

Alternatively, many travellers simply call in for a delightful breakfast whilst taking in views across the Yorkshire countryside. One visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “Spent the day at Holmfirth Vineyard and Restaurant, and what an experience!

“We were treated to a fascinating insight into the history of the business; it’s amazing to see the passion and dedication that goes into every bottle. The wine tasting was a treat, and it all wrapped up beautifully with a delicious Sunday dinner!”

Another visitor said: “The view on arriving was spectacular, and afternoon tea was delightful and filling. The wine tour and tasting were interesting, knowledgeable and entertaining; we all enjoyed it.”

Holmfirth thrives on festivities, hosting the annual Holmfirth Film Festival each year – a celebration featuring an extensive range of films from neighbourhood creators to global cinema, all within this compact town. The area also stages a yearly Arts Festival alongside a community market that presently operates on both Thursdays and Sundays.

THE UK village that was recently named the world’s most beautiful could soon introduce a new ban that would impact tourists.

Bibury in the Cotswolds managed to beat other pretty destinations around the globe to be named the most beautiful village in the world.

However, the quaint village has been struggling with a major issue with tourists for a while now, and soon it could introduce a ban on coaches visiting to help curb this.

A new proposal has been introduced to permanently reduce traffic to the popular village.

This comes after 20,000 people visited Bibury during one weekend this year.

As a result, residents started to campaign for a ban on coaches from driving through the centre.

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Then in May, a trial where coach bays were temporarily shut and buses were only allowed to use designated drop-off and pick-up zones was implemented.

Gloucestershire Council is now suggesting to make this permanent.

Under the new ban, there are also plans to extend yellow lines to prevent parking issues, introduce a new pay-and-display system and improve access near a school and church, with short-term parking.

There would also be a number of new seating areas and raised kerbs.

If approved, the new measures will be introduced by early summer next year.

One resident previously told The Sun that the village had gone from “10 to 90 coaches a day”.

Councillor Lisa Spivey, leader of Gloucestershire County Council, said: “Bibury is one of the Cotswolds’ most iconic destinations, but its popularity has created real challenges for residents and visitors alike.

“These proposals aim to make the village safer, reduce congestion, and protect its unique character, while supporting a sustainable visitor economy.

“We want to hear from everyone affected by these changes, so please take part in the consultation and help us deliver a solution that works for the whole community.”

Many locals blame social media for the rise in visitor numbers and over the years pictures have circulated of visitors climbing over walls into private property and cars parking illegally.

Tourists flock to Bibury for a number of reasons including seeing the famous Arlington Row which is said to have inspired Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings.

The village was also used as a filming location for Bridget Jones’s Diary and Stardust.

And William Morris even called it the “most beautiful village in England“.

The village is also home to St Mary’s Church, which dates back to 899 and is Grade I listed.

Inside the Anglo-Saxon church, visitors can see Norman doorway arches, a 13th century font, and 17th century table tombs.

You can also visit Bibury Trout Farm, which is one of the oldest in the country dating back to 1902.

Visitors can see the trout as they are fed and there are a number of other animals to spot at the farm, like ducks, swans and even kingfishers.

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There are plenty of other places to explore in the Cotswolds including a village with its own sandy beach and lagoon – miles from the English seaside.

Plus, ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ is one of UK’s most romantic villages – thanks to riverside restaurants and stargazing hotspot.

EVER wanted to step into your TV screen when watching a Christmas movie? Well, one village in the UK feels just like doing that.

Located in the Lake District National Park, the quaint and charming village of Hawkshead is full of old cottages and has a charming community feel.

Jerry Rebbeck, a local expert at Wheelwrights Holiday Cottages, said: “It’s like something out of a Hallmark Christmas movie.”

This small village becomes the ultimate festive spot thanks to its Christmas fair, which takes place between December 6 and 7.

Jerry said: “The fair takes place across one weekend every year, taking over the centre of the village with stalls, full of local produce, food and drink.

“This tiny village of around 500 people comes alive, with street performers, carol singing and even a lantern parade.

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“It’s a fabulous thing to visit and be a part of.”

But it isn’t just the Christmas fair that is worth heading to in the village.

Hawkshead is also home to a number of businesses with vintage shop fronts, which then in the lead up to Christmas create festive window displays.

Jerry shared: “Add that to the cobbled streets, and the village that look like they’re straight out of a Christmas fairytale.”

For those with a sweet tooth, head to the Chocolate Factory Hawkshead – which is a shop and cafe that hosts Christmas chocolate making workshops.

“It’s a great place to source stocking fillers, and makes for a great rainy day festive activity for families,” said Jerry.

The village also features a pretty church called St. Michael’s and All Angels.

It was built in around 1300 on the site of a Norse Chapel and what visitors see today mostly dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries.

Jerry said: “The view of the village from the 12th century churchyard is beautiful, with an easy walk back down to get a hot chocolate from quaint cafes such as The Minstrels Gallery Tea Room, or a glass of mulled wine in pubs such as The Red Lion Inn.”

Just a seven minute drive away or a 55 minute walk, visitors can also explore Hill Top Beatrix Potter House, which is a National Trust property.

The house is believed to be the place that inspired a lot of Beatrix Potter’s stories, and it has a cottage-garden, small cafe and shop and a second hand book-nook.

It costs £18.70 per person to visit, but will be closed from November 17 for the winter season.

Visitors can choose to stay in Hawkshead or in the surrounding areas.

Jerry shared: “In the surrounding area, only a mile away you can find holiday cottages in Outgate, as well as Ambleside, around five miles away.”

The small village also just 22 minutes from Lake Windermere, which is where the closest train station can be found and it is just a 30 minute drive from Grasmere.

If you also want to tie in a nearby city, then Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds are all between one hour and 55 minutes and two hours and 22 minutes away.

For a slightly smaller city, head to Lancaster, which is just an hour away.

There are a number of quaint villages that are pretty to visit around the festive period.

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For example, you could also head to another village that was made famous by three Hollywood movies is perfect for feeling Christmassy.

Plus, the UK’s ‘most beautiful town’ set to star in huge new Christmas movie with Hollywood stars.

WOULD you believe it that one village in Suffolk used to be as big as London, and just as important?

On the east coast of England is a village that years ago used to be one of the country’s biggest trade hubs, but due to coastal erosion has been lost to the sea.

Dunwich in Suffolk sits 13 miles down the coast from Lowestoft, and in recent history has been called the ‘Lost City of England‘ or even Suffolk’s answer to Atlantis.

During the medieval period, Dunwich had a main port which was a huge hub for international trade in what was the Kingdom of East Anglia.

Dunwich was even the capital of the Kingdom of the East Angles in the Anglo-Saxon period.

At that time, Dunwich was home to around 3,000 people – the same number that were in London.

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It would trade goods like wool, grain and fish, but problems began in the 14th century after a number of huge storms.

Significant storms in 1286, 1328 and 1362 caused a huge amount of damage, destroying buildings.

It washed the port and a large amount of the town into the sea, including around 400 houses and eight churches.

Sonar images have even revealed a number of old buildings and streets sitting 30 feet below the sea.

After this, the medieval port was lost and so Dunwich became what it’s known as now, a coastal village.

There’s very little of the original Dunwich left now, but one ruin that’s still on land is the Greyfriars Monastery.

This isn’t the original though as that was also destroyed by a storm in 1286, the ruins visible today are from the “new” friary that was rebuilt in the late 13th century.

These are reportedly haunted with some visitors saying they spotted mysterious lights, and even ghosts at the friary.

If you want to learn more about Dunwich’s rich history, there’s even a museum dedicated to telling the history of the village from Roman times to the present day.

But today, most people visit Dunwich to spend time on its stretching beach which in 2021 was named as one of the UK’s best-kept secrets.

Just down the coast is Dunwich Heath, known for its wildlife like Dartford warblers, woodlarks, adders and antlions.

The beach and surrounding countryside are owned by the National Trust, which runs a beachside tearoom called Coastguard Cottages where you can pick up hot and cold drinks, snacks and light meals.

There’s also a children’s play area on the beach, and cafes and pubs in the nearby village.

Favourites on Tripadvisor include The Ship Inn Restaurant, Flora Tea Rooms and The 12 Lost Churches.

For more exploration, further up the coast is the pretty seaside town of Southwold, or travel south to Leiston and Aldeburgh.

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The English seaside town with no arcades or rides but named the best in the UK…

Aldeburgh in Suffolk doesn’t have any arcades, but instead is littered with pastel-coloured holiday villas and fisherman’s huts selling the daily catch.

Today, the town still celebrates its rich history and has a literary festival each year.

Locals also boast about the town’s fish and chips, with The Suffolk recommended by Michelin.

Along the high street, instead of arcades you will find clothes boutiques, antiques shops and independent book stores.

One stop to head to is O&C Butcher – a 130-year-old clothes store selling top brands including Barbour and Gant. The town is also known for being the home of famous composer, Benjamin Britten.

Today, during the summer months, visitors can head to his home, The Red House. Britten shared the home with Peter Pears and it is nestled in a five acre garden, with a farmhouse, gallery space, shop and cafe. And there is a historic cinema in the town too.

It doesn’t look like your average cinema from the outside, as it features timber framing.

The beach itself boasts both shingle and sand and backs onto the town, making it the ideal spot for adventuring to after exploring the town.

On the beach you will also find The Scallop – a sculpture that is a tribute to Benjamin Britten.

The Times recently named the seaside town the best in the UK.

For a place to stay in Dunwich, discover what one writer made of the Smugglers Inn.

And hear more from Jimmy Doherty who lives in Suffolk or as he called it, the ‘undiscovered gem of England’.

If traditional British cuisine is your thing, you might want to head to this pretty village in the north east

Tucked away in the northeast of England lies one of Britain’s most picturesque villages.

Sitting high above the North Yorkshire Moors, the seaside treasure of Staithes was formerly a thriving fishing harbour in the North East.

Rich in heritage, Staithes is also home to one of the area’s best Sunday roasts, dished up at The Captain Cook Inn.

The Captain Cook Inn boasts an enviable location, set amongst the clifftops with sweeping views across the charming cobbled lanes and peaceful shoreline beneath.

Customers have flocked to Tripadvisor to sing the praises of the pub’s roast dinners, reports the Express.

One delighted customer declared: “Had a fabulous Sunday Roast, plenty of it and the beef was so tender and very moreish!”.

Sharing this view, another guest commented: “The meal was absolutely delicious. The meat was so tender and the vegetables were al dente. Just how we like them. Big fluffy Yorkshire and rich gravy. Could have eaten a whole plate of their roast potatoes.”

Alongside the celebrated roast, the establishment serves traditional favourites including steak pie, scampi and chips, and golden whitebait for starters.

Ale lovers can enjoy a range of brews, including the signature tipple, Northern Navigator, produced specially for the inn by the North Yorkshire Brewery, just 15 miles down the road.

Little wonder that The Captain Cook Inn received Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award. Visitors to the village can delve into its rich history, which is dominated by its most famous historical figure – Captain James Cook.

The Staithes Heritage Centre and Captain Cook Museum offer a trip back in time, recreating the shop where the famed explorer once worked as a grocer’s apprentice.

This delightful centre is filled with a collection that includes books, letters, and medals, transporting visitors back to the era of Captain Cook.

Staithes, also known for its vibrant artistic heritage, was once home to a significant group of artists known as the “Staithes group” or the “Northern Impressionists”.

Today, the pride of the village, the Staithes Gallery, showcases an impressive range of contemporary artwork, including paintings, photographs, and sculptures, all inspired by the charming village and its scenic surroundings.

For those interested in prehistoric discoveries, Staithes sits on the renowned Dinosaur Coast, offering plenty of opportunities for uncovering the past.

Tucked away within the village’s harbour is the sheltered Staithes Beach; when the tide goes out, it reveals a captivating world of rockpools filled with fossils and tiny sea creatures, providing endless fascination for any keen fossil hunter.

Further escapades await along the Cleveland Way National Trail, a 109-mile stretch that offers breathtaking views, from dramatic moorlands to historic coastal castles and quaint fishing villages, running from Filey to Helmsley.

After your adventures, relax at the quayside at the Cod and Lobster pub, renowned for its extensive seafood menu including its signature dish: a delicious pan-fried Cod Fillet served with a rich Lobster Bisque, homemade Potato Rosti and spinach, topped with a juicy Lobster tail or Claw.

Not to be overlooked, the Cod and Lobster also serve up mouth-watering hot and cold sandwiches alongside traditional pub favourites.

Finally, end your day with a visit to Dotty’s Vintage Tearoom, where you can enjoy a taste of yesteryear with their delightful homemade cheese or fruit scones, hearty toasties, and a comforting brew.

Staithes, while being acknowledged as one of the most picturesque villages, also boasts a rich history, exciting adventures, and first-rate cuisine.

Lustleigh is a stunning village that you’ve likely never heard of – unless you live in South Devon, that is. The hidden gem is a perfect destination to visit this autumn

Lustleigh is a breathtaking village you’ve probably never come across – unless you happen to live in South Devon. This tucked-away treasure makes for an ideal autumn getaway, with its charming thatched cottages and meandering lanes creating the sensation of having travelled back through the centuries.

Nestled within Dartmoor National Park’s boundaries, Lustleigh radiates “timeless charm and natural beauty,” the Visit South Devon website states. It’s not difficult to understand why, given the village regularly features on countless lists celebrating Britain’s most picturesque settlements.

The surrounding area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with historians and archaeologists unearthing stone hut circle remnants and evidence of Stone Age occupation.

Some historians suggest the settlement appeared under the name Suðeswyrðe in Alfred the Great’s will, where he bequeathed the town to his youngest son Æthelweard. It subsequently appeared in the Domesday Book as Sutreworde in 1086.

Nevertheless, others contend that Sutreworde wasn’t today’s Lustleigh, but rather existed at a neighbouring location. Regardless, the village’s heritage clearly extends far into the past, reports the Express.

During the 19th century, the neighbouring settlement of Wrayland merged with Lustleigh, and the magnificent Grade-II listed Wreyland Manor has stayed within the village’s boundaries ever since.

Those keen to explore Lustleigh’s heritage should head straight for the beautiful church of St. John the Baptist and the renowned Primrose Tea Rooms.

The tea rooms occupy one of the village’s historic thatched properties and have earned praise from TripAdvisor visitors.

One reviewer remarked: “Beautiful place to visit. Excellent food and service.

“Everything is to such a high standard and so delicious. I can’t wait to visit again. The afternoon tea is fantastic!”.

Another guest commented: “My first visit and I was very pleased with the outstanding service and the wonderful cream tea. The tea room was bright and airy with lovely decor.”

The establishment operates seasonally from spring through late autumn, so visitors are advised to confirm opening times before travelling.

Whilst the tearoom closes during winter months, the area remains an attractive destination year-round. Christmas visitors shouldn’t miss the beloved Boxing Day duck race at Lustleigh Park, which has become a cherished annual tradition.

Earlier in the calendar, the May Day festivities on the first Saturday in May offer another highlight. This time-honoured celebration features a village procession, traditional maypole dancing, and the ceremonial crowning of the May Queen.

A village in the UK has been hailed for its “insane” chippy and for providing visitors with an accurate taste of life in the past thanks to its “trapped in time” aesthetic and feel

A village in the north of England has been praised for its “insane” chip shop and its ability to transport visitors back in time with its “trapped in time” atmosphere. The UK is home to a wealth of scenic and historical locations that are well worth a visit.

One such place is Beamish, an open-air museum village located in County Durham, England – north-east of Stanley. It offers 350 acres of rural countryside, as well as being a “living” museum, complete with vintage shops and restaurants, Georgian gardens, historic modes of transport like trams and buses, and much more. This charming and fascinating destination has been designed to give visitors a realistic glimpse into the history of northern England, attracting hundreds of thousands of people each year who come to experience it first-hand.

The official Beamish website states: “Step into the past at Beamish, The Living Museum of the North.

“Beamish is a world famous open air museum which brings the history of North East England to life at its 1820s Pockerley, 1900s Town, 1900s Pit Village, 1940s Farm, 1950s Town and 1950s Spain’s Field Farm exhibit areas.”

It’s a mix of original buildings, replicas, and relocated structures that together create a functional “living museum” that visitors can experience as if it were the real thing.

Food content creator Callum recently embarked on a journey to the village, which look like a seemingly untouched, historic British town.

He made a stop at the renowned Davy’s Fish and Chips, known for its traditional cooking methods.

In a video tour of the chippy and the town, Callum said in a voiceover: “This is the fish and chip shop trapped in time – one of the last in the world that uses coal to heat the original 1950s fryers, with fish and chips cooked in beef dripping.”

He added: “The sweet shop makes candy by hand, the bakery makes the same cakes as a century ago. There’s no mobile phone reception up here so people actually have to talk to each other.

“A slice of England unchanged. It’s one of the most incredible fish and chips, it’s Davy’s in Beamish.”

In the caption alongside the video, he added: “Insane chippy stuck in history. Absolute scenes. Davys Fish and Chips, Beamish”.

TikTok users were quick to share their thoughts in the comments section. One user enthused: “Beamish museum if you’ve not yet been then go, it’s brilliant, them chips and fish best ever”.

Another reminisced: “We went on a school trip to Beamish when I was about 10. Loved it! I’m 57 now”.

A third said: “Wonder if no mobile reception is a specific tactic. What a world with no mobiles and social media.”

One enthusiastic fan shared: “I’ll just tell ya right now fish in beef dripping from that shop heated by coal is the BEST fried fish you will ever eat in your f***ing life”.

Another declared Beamish’s fish and chips the “best fish and chips [they] have ever had.”

While another user pleaded: “Make the WHOLE of the UK like this”.

A final commenter confessed: “Not me Googling if people live here, in attempt to escape modern society”.

ONE of the UK’s prettiest seaside villages is losing one of it’s Christmas events for good.

Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire is holding its traditional Victorian Weekend event later this year – and it’s a very important one.

For over 30 years, locals and visitors have flocked to the seaside village in their period costumes to celebrate what’s known as Victorian Weekend.

Robin Hood’s Bay completely transforms to look as if it’s in the Victorian era – and it’s free to enter.

It’s a Christmas event too, so expect big festive trees, brass bands playing Christmas tunes, and stalls selling handmade gifts, mince pies and mulled wine.

There will also be games and plenty of mini-events will take place around the village.

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Everyone gets into the spirit of it and you’ll feel like you’re in a Dickens novel seeing people dressed up as Victorian noblemen and women, to chimney sweeps.

There’s a best-dressed competition, so looks do matter on this occasion.

If you’re interested, then you need to visit this year, as unfortunately, the event will not be held again.

Over December 6-7, Robin Hood’s Bay will hold the final ever Victorian Weekend due to current organisers stepping down and there being no one to replace them.

The news was announced in October 2025 with a lengthy Facebook post that read: “After more than 30 years of tradition, fundraising, and community spirit, Victorian Weekend 2025 will mark the end of an era for Robin Hood’s Bay.”

It continued to add: “We hope you will join us to make the last Victorian Weekend truly memorable. Expect all your favourite traditions, plus some exciting new additions.”

The news was a sad shock to locals and visitors. In the comments, one wrote: “We’ll be deeply saddened to see it go after visiting it for 10 years or so. It’s become its own little self-contained Christmas in its own way.”

Another added: “This is such sad news. My husband and I have stayed at the Bay Inn every year for the past few years and the first time, purely by chance, it was the Victorian weekend.

“Since then we have come every year. Such huge amount of work. We love it. See you in December for the last one.”

Robin Hood’s Bay is a well-known fishing village known for being very beautiful as it sits on the edge of the water.

It has cobbled streets, that are car-free, and little stone cottages and shops.

The village has an interesting history too as during the 18th century, it was home to the busiest smuggling community on the Yorkshire coast.

Ships would stop there in the night to pass tobacco, tea and rum through secret tunnels underneath the cottages – some of which still exist today.

If you want to carry on exploring, you can head up to Whitby which is just 13 minutes away by car – and according to a UK seaside expert, is even better in winter.

Madeleine Bunting, an award-winning author and travel writer who spent last two years visiting 40 seaside towns in England, said: “Whitby is [better in the winter] too because there are fewer crowds.

“There are lots of great restaurants and lovely warm cafes in Whitby, and there’s also lots to see when you’re not battling with the crowds around the harbour.

“From long bracing walks along the beach to warm cafes and indoor attractions, there’s plenty to do in Whitby even in the winter.”

Set in Yorkshire, Whitby is known for its beaches and historical sites – although they can be quite busy during the warmer months.

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SOME places in the UK are especially memorable thanks to television series that have been filmed there, particularly in the south of England.

The pretty village of Looe is famous for being the backdrop of Beyond Paradis and Port Isaac was used for years in Martin Clunes‘ series Doc Martin – now the Lizard peninsula is set to be big thanks to the HBO Harry Potter series.

Earlier in autumn, the coastal peninsula of Lizard became a magical backdrop as actor John Lithgow who plays Albus Dumbledore, was spotted filming there.

Thanks to its location, the area is expected to soar in popularity next year, following in the footsteps of many other television series.

The Lizard peninsula is the southernmost point of the British mainland and is mostly recognisable thanks to its incredible coastline.

One of the spots where Harry Potter has been filming is in Cadgwith Cove, a small fishing village.

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The beach on the cove is split in two, one part is where you’ll find the fishing boats, and the other is where visitors and locals will go swimming, snorkelling and rock pooling.

Further around Cadgwith Cove is a 200-foot blowhole called the ‘Devil’s Frying Pan’.

The village itself is full of chocolate-box looking cottages, and anyone wanting to stay in Cadgwith Cove can do so at the local inn.

Harry Potter is also expected to film in Kynance Cove, a tidal beach famous for its white sand, turquoise sea and rock stacks.

Anyone can visit Kynance Cove, but there is a small fee for parking – unless you’re a National Trust member.

It’s worth the trip though with some visitors even describing it as “the best beach, give you Portugal vibes”.

Others describe it as a “Cornish gem”, however, there are warnings of strong waves and fast-rising tides.

Kynance Cove was even voted as being one of the World’s 50 Best Beaches in 2024.

While there aren’t many facilities, there is a cafe on the beach that serves sandwiches, salads, jacket potatoes, pasties and hot drinks.

For more budget-friendly holiday stay option on the peninsula, Brits can head to Lizard Point Holiday Park run by Parkdean Resorts.

The site is closed for the winter season, but reopens in March next year.

A five-night stay in May on a Trelan Caravan with a flatscreen TV, comfy sofas and sleeps up to six starts from £219, which is £7.30pppn.

The Compass Bungalow is the same price but sleeps up to four people; however, it is more spacious and has a brand new kitchen and bathroom.

Facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, kart and bike hire, children’s shows from PAW Patrol to Milkshake Mornings.

Kids can also check out the soft play, amusement arcade, bungee trampoline, adventure golf, high ropes, table tennis, football as well as art and craft sessions.

There are on-site bars and restaurants, an ice cream parlour, drinks van and Street Eats for takeaways.

Port Isaac further north became so well-known after being used as the filming location for the BBC Doc Martin series that ran for 18 years.

It became the fictional village of Portwenn, showing off its clusters of stone cottages and narrow streets.

Beyond Paradise, starring Kris Marshall and Sally Bretton, is filmed in the beautiful town of Looe, also in Cornwall.

The spin-off to Death in Paradise started in 2023 and is set in the fictional town of Shipton Abbott. The beaches of Looe and Fore Street are popular locations and the Guildhall is what they use for the Shipton Abbott Police Station.

Martha’s restaurant, The Ten Miles Kitchen, is filmed in The Stables, Port Eliot House & Gardens a cafe 20 minutes inland from Looe in the parish of St Germans.

It’s a great place to pop in for a coffee or brunch and a look over the garden estate.

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Here are five locations from popular TV shows that are free to visit…

Gavin and Stacey

Gavin and Stacey came to an end with the finale episode over Christmas, but you can still keep the show’s spirit alive with a trip to Barry, Wales.

Trinity Street in Barry is home to the homes of Gwen, Uncle Bryn, and Doris – now belonging to Gavin and Stacey.

On Barry Island itself, there’s the famous Marco’s Cafe and the Arcade where Nessa worked the slots.

Just up the road is The Colcot Arms aka Smithy’s local Essex hangout and of course the Tadross Hotel which doubles as The Dolphin – where pints cost £4, according to reviews left by guests.

Midsomer Murders

In rural Oxfordshire there is one of the deadliest villages around, Midsomer. ITV’s Midsomer Murders is filmed mostly in the quaint and historic town of Wallingford.

Wallingford isn’t the only location used. Just 30 minutes up the road is the village of Thame which also doubles as Causton village.

In Thame, the Spread Eagle, a red-brick hotel that serves up four roast mains on a Sunday, has been used for filming. They’ve also used The Black Horse, which has monthly offers from Happy Hour to deals on main courses.

Rumsey’s Chocolaterie has also appeared on-screen, and it’s worth a trip there just for the hot chocolates alone. They also offer workshops where you can make truffles and chocolate figurines.

At the Thame Museum, they offer a free Midsomer Walking Tour leaflet and there’s an opportunity to have a photo taken next to the ‘Causton Town Hall’ sign.

All Creatures Great & Small

The Yorkshire Dales is the home to beloved series All Creatures Great and Small.

Grassington becomes the fictional market town of Darrowby and there are lots of familiar sights, as most of the village is used for filming.

The production team dress up shop fronts, with The Stripey Badger Bookshop becoming G F Engleby Grocers and The Devonshire transforming into the Drovers Arms.

The traditional family pub is very highly rated and offers everything from hearty breakfasts to Sunday lunch. It even offers ‘Dining for Dogs’ with ‘Diced Chuck Steak Doggy Dinner’ or ‘Sausage Stew’ on the menu.

For the chance to spot some filming, plan a trip in late Spring, early Summer as the cast begin with the Christmas special around that time.

Call the Midwife

Call the Midwife has returned for series fourteen and there are plenty of locations from over the years to visit for free.

In the latest series, the ladies of Nonnatus house took a trip to the seaside which was filmed on West Wittering beach, in Sussex.

The cast were unlucky though, and filmed during Storm Agnes which resulted in Cliff Parisi developing hypothermia.

Another recognisable location is the lighthouse from the 2019 Christmas Special, where Nurse Val and Nurse Lucille go to Scotland.

It’s actually the Eilean Glas Lighthouse on the east coast of the island of Scalpay. To get there, park in the village of Kennavay and take the 30-minute trail. The building also operates as a small museum and serves tea and coffee during open hours.

Shetland

Talking of Scotland, Shetland is the filming location for Shetland, obviously. The TV series starring Ashley Jensen is filmed in the main town and port, Lerwick.

The most recognisable spot of Lodberries House, which was the home of former lead DI Jimmy Perez (Douglas Henshall).

Another popular location for the show is Commercial Street, which has featured in almost every single series of Shetland ever.

There are also lots of other iconic locations in Lerwick, including Lerwick Town Hall, Bain’s Beach and Lerwick Harbour.

You can get to Shetland by flying to a Scottish terminal, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and Kirkwall all have direct flights to Lerwick.

For more on Harry Potter, here’s the quaint suburb 30 minutes from central London that’s Harry Potter’s new childhood home.

Plus, the tiny pretty village in ‘trending’ English county that has its own castle and beach and is a great stop for Potterheads.