After years of exploring the UK with Tilly and sharing our adventures on Tillys Travelling Telegram we’ve discovered some magical places that often get overlooked. While tourists flock to London and Edinburgh, these hidden treasures offer unique family experiences without the crowds. We wanted to share some awesome seaside hidden gems to visit this year. Living by the sea is the best thing, but it is also very busy in the summer. So finding some hidden gems is a bonus for us.
The Magical Northumberland Coast
You might want to skip the busy Cornwall beaches and head to Northumberland’s pristine coastline. We discovered Alnmouth, a colourful village with rainbow-painted houses and wide, empty beaches. The nearby Dunstanburgh Castle provides dramatic photo opportunities for budding photographers especially during sunrise. You also have Berwick- Upon- Tweed where you can book a caravan for a week and just chill out in the area. Get a daily bus ticket and take a bus along the coast to see the different scenery. Northumberland always reminds me of Catherine Cookson books!
Visit The Coastline Of Wales
Instead of Snowdonia, explore the Gower Peninsula. You can discoverer Rhossili Bay, with its dramatic coastline and the iconic Worm’s Head. The less-visited autumn months offer perfect conditions for beach walks and rock pooling, activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. Bracelet Bay is surrounded by limestone cliffs and a bay that is full of pebbles and sand. Limeslade Bay is a rocky bay that can be found to the west of Bracelet Bay.
Scotland’s Hidden Gems And Forgotten Islands
Whilst Skye gets overcrowded with tourists, the Isle of Tiree offers similar beauty without the tourist buses. Tiree is the most westerly island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland and it is known as the ‘Hawaii of the North’ for its surprising number of sunny days. It’s perfect for wind-surfing lessons or simply enjoying empty beaches for relaxation, and you can always take a trip to mainland Scotland, and stay at one of the many great places, like this stylish Braemar accommodation on the way back, so you can make the most of not only the coastline but also Scotland’s many stunning mountains, lakes and cityscapes.
Visit Kent’s Coast
Firstly you should visit Whitstable for its Oysters and the Oyster festival that takes place every summer. It is a few miles away from Canterbury and the train line is one of the oldest in passenger services. Then to go along the coast is Herne Bay, where you will find the worlds first freestanding clock tower, built in 1837. It also have the second longest pier in the UK from 1837 until 1978. Lastly, Pegwell Bay is found in Thanet, where you can find a replica Viking ship. It is supposed to be a replica of the “Hugin”, a Danish longship. For bigger towns to visit pop over here.
Dorset’s Hidden Coast
Skip busy Durdle Door and head to Chapman’s Pool. This secluded bay requires a bit of a walk, so it’s probably not great for people with little mobility. But, if you can manage it, the reward is worth it. You can go fossil hunting, and paddle or swim in the crystal-clear waters. Sometimes you have the entire beach to yourself, making it an exclusive private day out for you and your family.
Practical Tips for Exploring Hidden Gems
The best way to find hidden gems is to visit during the months of March-May or September and October. These months are still warm and often dry. The kids are usually at school during this time, so you can enjoy the hidden gems in peace and quiet.
Check your local Facebook groups and posters in shop windows for authentic experiences or events in your local area. This way you support local businesses and communities. Even if you visit somewhere you don’t live, you can still support those communities with your days out.
Do your research before you visit somewhere, if you are visiting a place out of peak season, the facilities might be limited. Check car parking in the area, do you need cash or card to leave your car. Also if you are travelling by public transport, you might find they are less frequent in off seasons.
