village

This village in Derbyshire is known as the “seaside town without the sea” but its beloved fish and chip shops, cable car rides and theme park make it a quintessentially British holiday destination

This famous town in Derbyshire has all the makings of a great seaside town, except the sea. Located 94.4 miles away from Skegness, this unique destination still has plenty to offer, including fish and chip shops, cable car rides and an exciting theme park.

The official Visit Peak District & Derbyshire TikTok account posted a video spotlighting the town of Matlock Bath, referred to affectionately as the “seaside town without the sea”. The video documents how visitors can spend a day in the colourful and charming town.

The TikTok video reveals that Matlock Bath is “known for its colourful shops and fish and ships restaurants”. One must stop destination highlighted is Halls of Derbyshire, the traditional ice cream and confectionery shop.

READ MORE: UK fishing town named one of Europe’s ‘hidden gems’ that many don’t know about

Halls is a must-visit stop for anyone passing through the area, easy enough to spot with colourful balloons outside and a window full of cotton candy. Another spot highlighted in the video is Kostas Fish Bar, which happens to be right next door.

Despite not being particularly close to the sea, Kostas’ over 50 years of combined history in the fish and chip industry means that the menu is sufficient to satisfy your seafood craving. According to the video, Matlock Bath has a “seaside vibe despite being landlocked”.

This is most likely due to its position along the River Derwent. The 66-mile long river flows between Matlock Bath and Derby, with Matlock Bath situated in the middle of the river’s path.

Visitors to the area can enjoy a stroll along the river’s path or opt for an elevated view of the town by taking a cable car ride up to the Heights of Abraham. As documented in Visit Peak District’s TikTok video, visitors can take a cable car up to the clifftop country park to enjoy picturesque views.

There are also caverns, trails and playgrounds to explore for those who make it to the hilltop park. Those interested in more family-friendly activities can also check out Gulliver’s Kingdom – a small theme park located on the edge of the Peak District National Park.

Gulliver’s Kingdom is ideal for a short-term break, full of kid-safe rides and attractions. Matlock Bath’s Explorer Package might be a cost-effective option for those planning to visit both the theme park and the hilltop park, as both are included in the cost of some accommodation bookings.

READ MORE: ‘Underrated’ UK seaside spot everyone should visit is ‘cleanest and happiest place’

That said, you can probably enjoy much of the town in an afternoon and staying overnight isn’t necessary given the convenience of its transport options. As shared in the TikTok video, Matlock Bath is easy to get to by bus or train.

If you’re looking to explore more of Derbyshire, another stop to add to your list is Castleton – considered one of the “prettiest” villages in the Peak District. Despite its small population – less than 700 residents – the village draws plenty of tourists each year with its quaint pubs, tea rooms and stunning stone architecture.

In 2017, the US dropped the “mother of all bombs” in a remote village in Afghanistan’s Achin district. Al Jazeera made the journey to see what’s left: homes destroyed, health problems mounting, and no accountability in sight.

The village of Dionysos close to Sitia in Crete has slowly emptied of its residents and is now empty and abandoned but for a handful of families and squatters who remain there

An eerie abandoned village where something feels “not quite right” sits empty and crumbling, but for a handful of remaining residents.

The abandoned Dionysos village sits along the coast from Sitia in Crete. As you approach the flock of buildings on the hillside you will notice that it “looks different somehow. Something looks wrong, somehow lost,” an explorer for We Travel wrote recently.

Until the mid 2010s, the village was a thriving holiday destination. It has a prime location on the coastline scorched by summer sun. To the untrained eye, there is nothing amiss about the cluster of holiday homes and hotels that sit at the foot of the parched, dusty hillside.

Indeed, what is and what went wrong is something of a mystery. At some point in the last decade people stopped coming to Dionysos.

READ MORE: Brits warned of holiday islands summer of chaos as hotel staff plan mass walk-out in days

Some claim that the resort village was built on the wrong part of Crete, away from any nightlife and too far from the airport. When certain sea currents begin to flow, rubbish is washed onto the beach – not something sunseekers want to deal with.

“It was and remains the worst beach in the Mediterranean,” a local source told Greek outlet B2 Green. According to the publication, the owner’s unstable finances eventually led to the collapse of the settlement, with only three-quarters of the 470 properties built there ever sold.

For a period, the 200 or so families who lived there turned Dionysos into a relatively buzzy resort town which welcomed in guests during the summer months. Slowly however, the communal areas around the properties began to crumble when responsibility to manage them was moved from the developer to the villagers. As more people left, things became more unkempt.

Today plants are growing through cracks in the rocks and the streets are untidy. A large central swimming pool is empty of water but increasingly full of dust. Now, just 10 families call Dionysos their fulltime home.

Recently, photographer Marco Petrini visited the “nearly deserted” village where some apparent squatters are now occupying some buildings.

“Upon my arrival, I began to wander around, and the sound of distant voices and some old, rusty cars parked here and there, indicated the presence of people, but I wasn’t sure about my safety, since I was alone and I had my gear with me (camera, lenses, drone, etc.)” Marco explained.

“Believe it or not, it turned out some of these houses (although very few) were still inhabited, and I didn’t want to intrude too heavily. Therefore, although I would have loved to set up my tripod and capture multiple exposures and different compositions, I opted for handheld photography.

“At one point, I noticed someone approaching me, but I couldn’t decipher her intentions… She began to talk to me in Greek, and while I couldn’t understand what she was saying, from the tone of her voice it was clear that I was not welcome there, prompting my decision to leave.”

Journalist Lexi Taciak described the village as having an “uncanny valley” feel to it. “From far away the village looks pretty normal, but the closer you look the more clues you see that it is deserted and that something is not quite right. The juxtaposition between the cheerful colors, playful lines, dynamic light, and the conditions of the village is really interesting to see,” she added.

Have you been to an abandoned place you think we should cover? Email [email protected]

This ancient fishing village in Devon was relatively unknown to the world before the mid-1800s, but today its draws tourists with seafood festivals and elegant cottages

If you’re looking to escape the sounds of heavy city traffic, a trip to Devon may be the answer.

One car-free haven in particular is being hailed as the ‘dreamiest’ spot in the country on social media. Clovelly Village in North Devon was highlighted by the TikTok account @storky_adventures, who described it as “one of the most beautiful spots in the UK”.

In a video showing off the cobblestone streets and picturesque cottages of the town, the influencer says being there was like “stepping back in time”. Anyone that has visited Clovelly can attest to its transformative atmosphere. The fishing village rests atop a 400-foot cliff and offers unbelievable views overlooking the seas, though there is an entrance fee.

There has always been a charge to visit Clovelly. The village relies on entrance fees to upkeep the ancient village. The standard admission charge of £9.90 for adults and £5.75 for children 7-16 includes a free return visit within 7 days. You can also purchase a £26 family pass that includes entrance for two adults and two children over 7 – children under 7 and dogs are welcome without charge. As well, if you stay at one of the village’s two historic hotels, entrance to Clovelly is included.

The ancient village was once owned by the Queen of England and has been privately held since Elizabethan times. Originally the estate was owned by William the Conqueror who gifted it to his wife before it was eventually acquired by the Giffard family in 1242.

Until the mid 19th century Clovelly was unknown to the outside world but today it is a well-preserved gem for travellers – with plenty of fishing and architectural points of interest.

The village’s fishing quay is one of its most popular attractions. To get to the 14th-century harbour you will need to take the iconic “Up-a-long” or “Down-a-long” – the village’s cobbled streets – given the absence of cars.

The car-free atmosphere means that you can enjoy the area without the noise pollution and traffic typical of other UK destinations. Strolling through the village on foot also gives travellers the opportunity to explore hidden passageways and see the notable cottages up close and at leisure.

Instead of a flood of cars and trucks, travellers will see donkeys and sledges being used to transport goods. The village even has a donkey adoption program to help keep their beloved mules happy and healthy.

Fishing is still a key part of life in Clovelly and the port remains well-known for its lobsters, crabs and mackerel. Seafood lovers will be happy to know that Clovelly’s restaurants offer locally sourced food, serving the freshest in-season catch daily.

The village is also part of a sustainable fishing partnership to ensure lobsters thrive in the nearby waters for years to come. Consider planning a trip for May to enjoy the Seaweed Festival which celebrates the coast’s natural bounty.

Another big festival for food-focused travellers to keep an eye out for its the Lobster and Crab Feast that takes place in August. The annual event showcases the village’s famous seafood. There’s also the Herring Festival in November to honour the village’s fishing heritage.

If you’re wondering where to stay in the village, there are two historic hotels to choose from. The New Inn is a historic gem sitting in the heart of the village. The 400 year-old property has 11 ensuite rooms across two buildings and has stunning views across Bideford Bay.

Another great and historically significant accommodation option is The Red Lion. The 18th-century four-star inn is set just along the ancient harbour so it has impressive sea views. It is also home to the reputable Harbour Restaurant and stay at The Red Lion includes entrance to The Clovelly Court Gardens.

The spot is everything you’d want from a fishing village – tiny, charming, and always serving up the catch of the day

Nestled in a picturesque crevice of Wales’ rugged coastline, Little Haven doesn’t strive to impress, but that’s precisely why it does. This quaint fishing village in Pembrokeshire exudes a certain charm with its delightful pubs, authentic seafood sandwiches, and a charming cove that ebbs and flows with the tide.

During the warmer months, locals and tourists alike flock to the slipway with ice creams and pints, creating a relaxed atmosphere. But there’s more to Little Haven than seafood sandwiches and seaside pints. The village has a deep-rooted lifeboat heritage.

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In 1882, the RNLI established a base beneath Goldtrop Head, launching lifeboats directly from the water.

This changed in 1903 when proper facilities were finally constructed. The station shut down in the ’20s, but by 1967, lifeboats returned, this time darting out from the newly christened Little and Broad Haven Lifeboat Station, reports Wales Online.

In addition to its maritime history, Little Haven is situated along Pembrokeshire’s enchanting coastline and serves as an idyllic location for a refreshing swim or coastal walk.

Little Haven’s beach may be small, but it boasts layers of rock pools, soft sand and a changing shoreline that unveils routes to adjacent coves at low tide. It forms part of a stretch of coastline designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its intriguing geology and marine life.

The surrounding cliffs and rock formations enhance the picturesque beauty, offering ideal spots for picnics, sunbathing, and coastal strolls. The beach also provides excellent conditions for water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing.

It’s also increasingly become a favourite spot for wild swimming, though you should always be careful and follow Adventure Smart guidance when taking a dip.

For walkers, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path cuts straight through the heart of Little Haven, so if you’ve packed your boots and your waterproofs, you’re in the right place.

Jump on the trail and stride in either direction to enjoy secluded coves, sandy bays and you might even spot a seal if you’re lucky. Head north for a hike to Broad Haven or Nolton Haven, or swing south past The Swan Inn to reach The Point, a cracking clifftop lookout.

Little Haven has also emerged as a small foodie hotspot, thanks to a popular seafood deli and a seaside pub serving home-cooked food.

Seafood in Little Haven and the wider Pembrokeshire area is a culinary highlight, with its coastal offerings reflecting the village’s rich maritime heritage. Pembrokeshire has a growing reputation for fresh produce and coastal cuisine supplied by an emerging wave of independent producers and dining establishments.

Lobster and MôR have become a popular feature in Little Haven, attracting people from miles around to enjoy a fresh roll smothered with Welsh seaweed butter and filled with succulent crab meat or lobster meat. Freshly caught, whole lobster can also be bought alongside Caws Cenarth cheese, ice cream and their locally distilled Tir and Môr gin.

A trip to this deli is a must when visiting Little Haven. Here, local produce merges effortlessly with nautical gifts, picnic essentials and delicious deli items.

If you’re not in the mood for a lobster roll, other sandwich options like smoked salmon and cream cheese are also on offer and go perfectly with their takeaway coffee or, if you’re feeling indulgent, a bottle of their seaweed and spice gin.

For those looking for a pint with a view, there are several pubs in and around Little Haven that serve a range of home-cooked dishes and seafood specials.

The Swan Inn, a 200-year-old pub with a waterside location, focuses on local diver-caught scallops and St Brides Bay crab.

St Brides is another popular pub in the centre of the village, serving Welsh and local Pembrokeshire ales.

This family-run establishment is full of charm and even has a unique secret – behind a door in the bar is one of Little Haven’s original freshwater wells. Opposite the pub, there’s a sun-soaked beer garden perfect for lazy lunches and relaxed weekend sessions.

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A beautiful UK seaside village has been named the best staycation destination for Brits this spring – but it’s not just the charming streets and pubs that keep visitors coming back

A charming village in Cornwall has been named the UK’s best staycation destination for spring, and it’s not difficult to see why.

Nestled amidst green hills and boasting a sandy beach, Port Isaac in Cornwall is already a firm favourite with tourists wanting to make the most of the Cornish coast, away from some of the larger beachside spots that can become home to large crowds during the summer.

Research conducted by Sykes Holiday Cottages unveiled the fishing village as Brits’ top must-visit for a staycation in spring 2025, thanks to its picturesque location, great eateries and abundance of accommodation. Although it’s no hidden hotspot – there are plenty of visitors who flock there during the summer months – in spring and autumn it can be a little quieter, making it ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle found in other holiday spots.

Known for its narrow and winding streets (keep an eye out for Squeezy Belly Alley – one of the narrowest passageways in the UK, measuring only 18 inches wide), you’ll find plenty of charming boutiques, pottery shops, pubs and restaurants tucked away amidst the whitewashed cottages that the village is renowned for, not to mention everything is a short walk away so you can make the most of a short break. That’s no doubt one of its selling points, as the research revealed that 22% of Brits are generally looking to make the most of their limited annual leave by taking shorter, more frequent trips in the UK.

TV fans may also recognise the quaint spot as it doubled up as Port Wenn in BBC show Doc Martin. Visit Cornwall has a useful guide to some of the main locations such as Fern Cottage, aka Doctor Ellingham’s surgery, the Liberal Club which served as the location for the local shop, and the Golden Lion Pub which doubled up as the Crab & Lobster in the series. You can even take a guided walking tour of the village that ensures you won’t miss the highlights, not to mention you can learn plenty of fun behind-the-scenes tidbits.

As for those all-important coastal walks, Port Isaac boasts a location right on the South West Coast Path, with a few shorter walks for those who don’t want to have to grab all of their hiking gear, but would still like to enjoy a leisurely stroll to take in the views.

Sykes Holiday Cottages’ Short Breaks Tester, Charlotte, headed to the breathtaking destination to see if it lived up to the hype, and was clearly enthralled by what she found. “I gave up counting how many times we said, ‘Wow’ – every angle in Port Isaac is picture perfect,” she explained. “We headed up the other side of the harbour and into the fields that lead to the South West Coast Path.”

The swan fountain and the Mistley Towers are the only remaining physical reminders of an ambitious plan to turn the town of Mistley into a saltwater spa in the 18th century

At first glance, the charming riverside town of Mistley in Essex might not seem particularly remarkable. However, two enduring symbols of an ambitious yet ultimately failed 18th-century project to transform the town into a saltwater spa still exist – the swan fountain and the Mistley Towers.

According to English Heritage, Richard Rigby’s father accumulated significant wealth and influence when he was appointed Paymaster General of the Forces by George III in 1786. Back then, the village of Mistley consisted of warehouses, a granary, a malting office, quays and a medieval church – only the porch of which survives to this day.

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There was also a more recent church, built to the north of the village in 1735 at the request of Rigby’s father. However, when Rigby dreamt up his grand plan to turn Mistley into a fashionable spa, the simple brick structure of the church didn’t fit with his vision.

Initially, Rigby commissioned Robert Adam to design a saltwater bath by the river, but this idea never materialised. Instead, the architect was assigned to work on the church around 1776, reports Essex Live.

In a departure from the norm, Adam’s design broke away from the traditional 18th-century parish church blueprint, featuring towers at both the east and west ends and semi-circular porticoes to the north and south.

It’s been suggested that Adam may have drawn inspiration from Roman tombs, giving the structure an unusual flair. Regrettably, Rigby’s grand plans to turn Mistley into a bustling spa destination never came to fruition.

The central part of the church was demolished in 1870, making way for a newer, trendier place of worship nearby.

Despite the original plans falling through, the remaining towers found a new purpose as a “seamark” and were sold off to local families who had aspirations of converting them into opulent mausoleums.

Yet, this idea too did not take hold, and over time, the towers were left to deteriorate. It wasn’t until the 1950s that the towers saw a revival, thanks to architect Raymond Erith and the efforts of the Georgian Group, who meticulously restored them.

The surrounding churchyard is peppered with monuments dating from the early to mid-18th century, including an eye-catching polished black granite mausoleum in the Egyptian style, erected in memory of the Norman family.

One seaside town has been ranked the best in the country, receiving five-star ratings for its impressive views of the Northumberland coastline and serene atmosphere.

One Northumberland village has been named the best seaside town in the UK four years in a row. The UK’s top consumer champion, Which?, conducted its annual seaside survey of over 120 UK towns and villages across the UK and the results reveal a clear winner.

Bamburgh is the landslide victor, retaining its title as the most beloved seaside town among travellers. According to the results of Which’s survey, Bamburgh received five-star ratings across the board for its beach, seafront, scenery, tourist attraction and its tranquil atmosphere.

The village achieved an 86% overall destination score in the recent survey, which was the consumer group’s biggest seaside survey to date. The results reflect the opinions of 5,000 Which members, many of whom cited the spectacular views of Bamburgh Castle in their reviews.

READ MORE: Charming UK market town with no tourists ‘perfect for a staycation’

Bamburgh is situated within the Northumberland countryside, at the midway point between Berwick upon Tweed and Alnwick. Part of the reason it’s so popular among British holidaymakers is due to its close proximity to Newcastle airport and the Chathill train station (only a 30-minute train ride).

The most famous fixture of Bamburgh is, naturally, its namesake landmark: Bamburgh Castle. Even if you haven’t visited the castle in-person, you may have seen the iconic fortress in television shows or films like The Last Kingdom, Transformer: The Last Knight, or Frontier.

The award-winning castle is hailed as “the real Last Kingdom of Bebbanburg”. Today, the Anglo-Saxon citadel is owned by the Armstrong family, and their love of pets is the reason the grounds are now dog-friendly.

The Castle has become a huge attraction for the area, hosting a range of activities including Dragon Hunts, Ghost Tours and Outdoor Cinema Screenings. Fans of the Netflix series The Last Kingdom can also partake in the Uhtred of Babbenburgh Tour which runs between February and November to learn about the castle’s history.

Bamburgh Castle has become a distinguishing feature of the Northumberland coast and is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country. Not only is the fortress filled with 3,000 years of history and tales of Vikings and The Last Kingdom, but it also offers stunning views of the sea beyond.

Bamburgh Beach sits just beyond Bamburgh Castle and is notable both for its sand dunes and sea views. The beach has also become a huge draw for surfers, considered one of the most consistent spots along the coast. For those interested in learning, there are multiple surf schools operating on the north end of the beach from spring until autumn.

Travellers venturing north along the beach will come across the famous ‘Stag’ Rocks. This coastal landmark gets its name from the white stag painted on the rocks. While the origin of the painting is unknown – some locals say it appeared after a stag jumped into the sea – today, the rocks are regularly painted to keep up the local history.

Stag Rocks have also become a popular vantage point for birdwatching. This portion of the coast also offers unique views of the protected Farne Islands – a small group of islands a few miles off the coast of the Northumberland between Bamburgh and Seahouses.

If you’re in the area, a visit to the nearby fishing village of Seahouses is certainly a must. Regular boat tours leave from Seahouses’ harbour to the Farne Islands where travellers can see puffins and a large colony of grey seals.

Travellers can even walk straight from Seahouses harbour to Bamburgh Castle to enjoy a stunning stretch of the Northumberland coastline. The roughly three-mile walk is predominantly on golden sand.

The council chairman of a popular UK tourist destination has said that introducing a new car park was “not plausible” as the village continues to struggle with overtourism

Plans for a new car and coach park in one of England’s most idyllic villages have been withdrawn to deter more tourists from visiting. While some destinations clamour to intrigue travellers, this holiday hotspot in Gloucestershire says “enough people” are already visiting.

Bibury – often called the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’ – sees thousands of tourists visit from across the world annually. But the fairytale-esque village is considered a victim of its own beauty, as hordes of tourists have been causing significant traffic and chaos in the area.

As reported by the BBC, Craig Chapman from Bibury Parish Council said that a potential proposal for a car park would have been rejected by planners had it made it to the council. While the proposal was eventually dropped, Chapman said there are “enough people coming into the village”.

READ MORE: Insanely beautiful UK village is so magical you won’t ever want to leave

He continued: “the thought of having an out of village car park with 130 cars and 10 coaches – at least 500 people shuttling down to the village or walking the narrow pavement was not plausible.”

Bibury has garnered a reputation as the ‘most beautiful village in England’ as once described by 19th century writer William Morris. Today, it is home to a few hundred residents but welcomes thousands of visitors daily, with up to 50 coach buses coming into the village a day.

Locals have grown increasingly unnerved by the massive tourist crowds descending on the area. To address the problem of overtourism, residents have formed a working group that includes councillors and police. Gloucestershire County Council has also announced plans to tackle overtourism in the village.

Early this year, reports emerged that coaches could soon be banned from stopping and parking in the village. However, less drastic measures will be implemented sooner.

Over the next few months, the layout of parking bays will be updated to prevent coaches from parking or idling in the layby on the B4425. This is next to the Swan Bridge in the centre of the village.

The second phase of plans will see the potential introduction of restrictions on coach access to the centre of Bibury. In order to move forward with this, a legal consultation process would be needed and is set to start in early summer.

Longer-term recommendations from the working group also include improving signs to direct coaches away from the village’s narrow lanes. In addition, the group wants to explore alternative parking options outside the village.

Finally, the local working group wants to encourage tourists to use other modes of transport to visit the village, including walking, cycling or using public transport. There is no direct train into Bibury, however many travellers take a direct train to Kemble from London and then get a 24-minute taxi to Bibury.

All said, there are still plenty of other villages in the Cotswolds to explore and which deserve traveller attention. Despite being slightly less popular than Bibury, Broadway is considered to be the ‘jewel of the Cotswolds’.

Located in the north of the region, the village is known for its manicured lawns, art galleries and classic tea shops. Broadway is a particular gem for art and antique lovers and collectors.

Defying the crime-riddled reputation of UK seaside resorts, this tiny coastal village – framed by its own island – has been crowned of the most relaxing spots in the country

Tucked away in the stunning South Devon coastline, where rolling countryside melts into turquoise seas – lies one huge anomaly. Bigbury-on-Sea boasts some of the UK’s very best scenery, from long stretches of golden sands to crystal clear waters. But, it was also branded one of the safest and most ‘relaxing’ resorts in the country.

The gong comes after UK holiday firm Parkdean Resorts compared coastal hotspots from across the UK, analysing factors such as cleanliness, green space, local safety, light and noise pollution, and population density. According to the Express, it crowned Bigbury-on-Sea the ultimate winner, thanks to its unspoilt nature (being surrounded by three areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty helps) and low crime rate.

READ MORE: ‘Stunning’ UK seaside town with three-mile beach sees house prices plummet by £13,000

Whether you’re after an active holiday filled with beach-side yoga, surfing, and paddle-boarding – or want to soak up the rays with a good book – this village has you sorted. There are also plenty of hiking trails of varying ability for those who can’t resist those Instagram-worthy views – or boat cruises for holidaymakers not wanting to break a sweat.

“One of the distinctive features of Bigbury-On-Sea Beach is the tidal causeway that connects the mainland to Burgh Island,” hailed Visit South Devon, the area’s official tourist board. “At low tide, visitors can walk across the sandy pathway, immersing themselves in the tranquil surroundings and enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.

“As the tide rolls in, the sea covers the causeway, creating a sense of isolation for those on Burgh Island, accessible only by sea tractor or boat. It also boasts an award-winning hotel, elegant and rather genteel; it’s an ideal romantic retreat for couples.”

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Bigbury-on-Sea is some 234 miles from London, meaning you’ll need to endure a gruelling four hour-and-a-half-hour drive to get there. However, direct trains from the Big Smoke to Totnes slash two hours from the journey time. You’ll then have to get a 41-minute taxi ride.

If you’re flexible with dates, you can grab single adult fares for as little as £44. If you have a railcard, you’ll be able to get tickets for even cheaper.

Accommodation in Bigbury-on-Sea varies depending on your budget. For example, a weekend’s stay (Friday, June 6-8) at the four-star Swallow Barn will set you back £653, based on two adults sharing a two-bedroom holiday home. However, a one-bedroom apartment at Steepfield Studio costs a much more affordable £485 on the exact same dates.

*Prices based on Trainline and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.

What’s your favourite UK seaside resort? Let us know in the comments section below

This lesser-known village is northwest Wiltshire has everything you’d expect from the Cotswolds, including mellow stone cottages, a charming 17th-century estate and a beloved local eatery

Even regular visitors to the Cotswolds may have missed the memo on this picturesque village. While buzzier destinations like Bibury and Bourton often get the most attention from tourists, heading to a new part of Wiltshire will help you enjoy the area in peace and relative quiet.

Biddestone has a reputation for being one of the best-kept secrets of the Cotswolds – which, of course, means that it is not as big a secret as it once was. Still, the village has retained a quiet charm that travellers would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.

Biddestone is a small, rural village in north west Wiltshire, England, with an incredibly modest population of only a few hundred residents. You may have even passed the village unknowingly, as it is in close proximity to many other beloved destinations; just four miles from Castle Combe and about 5 miles from Lacock, Corsham, Giddeahall and Chippenham.

READ MORE: Insanely beautiful UK village is so magical you won’t ever want to leave

The heart of Biddestone is the village green, where many community events and celebrations are hosted every year. The main open space is surrounded by grand Cotswold mellow stone homes and cottages, decreasing in size as you move away from the village centre.

The architecture of the area certainly adds to the character of the squared village, with the majority of buildings boasting picturesque Georgian facades and tiled roofs. Travellers planning an extended trip in the area can stay at one of the architectural marvels situated by the village’s large duck pond.

The Anvil Cottage and the Billiard Room are both award-winning holiday properties set on the grounds of a 17th-century estate, known as The Close. Once a working forge, Anvil Cottage has been restored beautifully and is now a five-star gold-rated luxury property.

The Billiard Room has also been masterfully restored, though it has lived many lives. Originally a blanket factory and then the village school, the property was also converted into a billiard room by the owner of the estate in the 1920s. Today, it is a luxe hideaway with all the modern conveniences of any top hotel.

The duck pond on the property also has a unique history, originally serving as a watering place for cattle from the local farms. The Close also continues to celebrate the village’s wool trading history, which is what allowed it to prosper.

Another architectural landmark of the area is the church of St. Nicholas, which dates back to Anglo-Saxon times. The church was reportedly never enlarged during the seven centuries between its Norman foundation and the late Victorian era, and visitors are welcome to explore the historical landmark daily.

The Grade II* listed Manor House is another stop worth adding to your list. When it is open to the public – dogs included – travellers can explore the five acres of beautifully manicured gardens, streams and orchards. Once you’re done strolling for the day, a trip to the local favourite pub – The White Horse – is a must. It’s easy enough to spot with it’s bright white facade.

While Biddestone has just enough to keep you entertained for a day and plenty of gorgeous accommodation options, it may be better suited for a day trip from a neighbouring base. In fact, you’re likely to meet other Cotswolds residents from Chippenham spending a day on The Green or at The White Horse.

It’s also a great starting off point for a countryside walk, another reason its so popular with Cotswolds natives.. The Wiltshire Walks website recommends a scenic four-mile walk west into the rural landscape and the deep valley of Colerne Park.