After a week in London and another week in Manchester, now you want to explore the hidden gems of England. Well, you’re in luck! In this blog post, we’ll uncover some of the cutest spots in England that you’ve probably never heard of. These charming, off-the-beaten-path locations offer the perfect mix of beauty and tranquillity, away from the crowds. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, these delightful destinations are sure to enchant you. Join us as we explore England’s best-kept secrets, where every visit promises a unique and memorable experience.
Staithes
Located on the North Yorkshire coast, Staithes is a charming fishing village that feels like stepping back in time. Its cosy streets wind around colourful cottages perched on the cliffs. You can stroll through these lanes and find hidden spots like the Captain Cook and Staithes Heritage Centre, which tells stories about the village’s past and its connection to the famous explorer. With its tall cliffs, calm harbour, and scenic walks along the coast, Staithes is a peaceful place to escape from busy life and enjoy the beauty of the Yorkshire coast.
Whitby
Whitby is a cool little town on the coast of Yorkshire, England. It’s got everything you could want for a fun day out – beaches, history, and great fish and chips! The town is famous for its beautiful abbey, Whitby Abbey. Plus, there’s a harbour where you can watch fishing boats come and go, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some seals bobbing in the water. I love Whitby beach and the colourful beach houses lining the beach, which is so cute and great background for a picture. Whitby’s got loads of quirky shops and cafes to explore, so you can spend hours wandering around and soaking up the relaxed seaside vibes.
Robin Hood’s Bay
Robin Hood’s Bay is like something straight out of a storybook – it’s a super charming village perched on the cliffs of the Yorkshire coast. It’s not the most well-known village ever by people who are not local. I only heard of it from my ex-manager who loves this place SO MUCH he comes here every year. I went there the moment I got my car (public transport is difficult) and I can understand why. The narrow streets wind down towards the sea, and the old buildings look like they’re leaning over each other!
It’s a great place to explore if you love adventure and history – you can go rock pooling on the beach, hunt for fossils (yep, it’s almost the Jurassic Coast of the North!), or wander along the coast path for amazing views. Plus, there are some cosy pubs and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat and soak up the relaxed atmosphere. When I was dating my now husband, we had dinner at the hotel with a spectacular view of sunset for his birthday after a day of exploring. He still remembers it fondly to this day. Robin Hood’s Bay is a real hidden gem, and once you’ve visited, you’ll definitely want to come back again and again!
Chester
Chester is a super cool city in England that’s got a ton of history and charm. It’s famous for its ancient city walls, which you can actually walk around – how cool is that? There are points to get on and off along the walls, and one of them is the Chester Cathedral Falconry Centre. I remembered it as I loved seeing the birds! It’s a shame they don’t reopen after lockdown according to the news. Though, there’s still the cathedral that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale.
You can wander through the cute little streets lined with quirky shops and cafes, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some Roman ruins poking out from beneath the pavement! Chester is also home to a bunch of fun events and festivals throughout the year, so there’s always something exciting happening. Whether you’re into history, shopping, or just soaking up the vibes, Chester has got something for everyone.
Cambridge
Cambridge might be famous for its prestigious university, but it also has some lesser-known cute spots that are worth discovering. You could also visit the university, as they look really cool too. Wander down the cobbled streets to find charming independent cafes and boutique shops tucked away from the main tourist areas. Explore the hidden gardens and peaceful riverbanks, where you can enjoy a relaxing punt on the River Cam without the usual crowds. Well, I think relaxing only if you pay for those boats where there is punter included, which I did. The ones where you have to punt yourselves look less relaxing to me. I did spot one of them falling down to the river! I have never been, but there are recommendations about the quaint village feel of Grantchester, which is within walking or cycling distance from the city centre, where you can have a delightful afternoon tea by the river. Cambridge is full of delightful surprises that make it a perfect addition to your list of cute spots in England.
Hebden Bridge
Hebden Bridge is a super cool spot in Yorkshire, England, with tons of character and charm. It’s surrounded by lush green hills and sits on the banks of a babbling river – talk about picturesque! The town itself is like something out of a storybook, with quirky shops, colorful buildings, and cozy cafes lining the narrow streets. There’s always something going on, whether it’s a local market, live music in the pubs, or a fun festival. I was quite surprised actually to find an Indonesian cafe there. I mean, it’s Hebden Bridge! It’s not London, but it’s full of life still. Plus, there are loads of scenic walks and bike rides to do in the surrounding countryside, so it’s the perfect spot for nature lovers too. If you’re looking for a laid-back vibe and some seriously good vibes, Hebden Bridge is the place to be!
We hope you’ve enjoyed this journey through some of England’s cutest spots that you might not have heard of before. From the historic charm of Chester and the hidden gems of Cambridge to the coastal beauty of Staithes and Robin Hood’s Bay, and the artistic allure of Hebden Bridge, each destination offers its own unique appeal. These delightful places, tucked away from the usual tourist paths, provide perfect escapes for those looking to explore England’s rich and varied landscape. So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider visiting these enchanting spots for an unforgettable experience. Happy travels!