There is so much that the UK has to offer tourists from its unique culture to the sheer amount of things to do. While most people visit the UK to travel to one of the big cities like London or Manchester, there are so many other smaller places that tourists don’t seem to know about. Sometimes the most obscure places can be the best to explore, as they offer a more unique experience that not many others would have had.

The UK is blessed with beautiful places to explore in both secluded areas and more popular areas with hidden treats. Whether you’re looking for the best hidden coves and lakes or you want to enjoy some of the lesser-known shopping experiences in the country, you will find everything you need in this guide.

Continue reading to see some of the hidden gems that you should consider visiting during your exploration of the UK.

UK’s Hidden Gems

Gaping Gill Cove

The Gaping Gill Cave is arguably the most spectacular feature of the Yorkshire Dales. Few people travel to the cave since it can only be accessed by winch during specific periods of the year. For true adventurers searching for something different to do, it’s a worthwhile experience. Local groups will host activities in May or August to provide the public with an opportunity to see the cave up close.

Tyneham Ghost Town

This haunting relic of World War II is nestled in the Dorset countryside and allows tourists to experience something hard to find elsewhere. Tyneshaw Ghost Town was evacuated in 1943 to make way for military training grounds and even though residents were promised an eventual return, nobody was ever able to return. It has empty cottages, abandoned churches and overgrown gardens can be quite eerie at times. However, it is worth a visit as it is truly fascinating.

Loch Awe

With beautiful landscapes from every direction, Scotland’s third-largest freshwater loch is among the most picturesque that you will ever come across. The lake has a distinctly fantastical atmosphere thanks to the several castle ruins nearby, including Kilchurn Castle. May through September is the ideal season to explore Loch Awe since it offers the best possibility of pleasant weather and bright sunshine.

Victoria Leeds

One of the most underrated shopping experiences in the UK, Victoria Shopping Centre in Leeds offers customers a unique experience that combines retail therapy with pleasant eateries and captivating entertainment. There are many high-end stores like Mulberry and Calvin Klein to give customers a luxury shopping experience. It’s not just great for shopping though as they have their own Boom Battle Bar and other amenities that give hours of fun for visitors. There is also a nearby car park in Leeds for ease of access to the shopping centre.

St Michael’s Mount

The St. Michaels Mount, located in Cornwall, offers one of the most distinctive walking experiences. When the tide is out, tourists can cross the causeway to the mount, which is perched on an ancient tidal island and home to an ancient castle. The view is stunning when the tide is in and needs to be seen to be believed. The greatest time to stroll over the causeway is during the driest months of April through September. However, during the other months, you can get to the island by boat which is a great experience in itself.