England is a country brimming with iconic landmarks and famous attractions, but beyond the well-trodden tourist path lie hidden gems waiting to be included in your travel planning. This gorgeous country with its lesser-known destinations including hidden coastal coves, historic sites, quaint villages, and scenic countryside, offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience to every traveler. In this blog let us look at the top hidden gems you should visit in England on your next vacation.
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Minack Theatre, Cornwall
The Minack Theatre in Cornwall is a remarkable open-air theater perched on the cliffs of Porthcurno overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The theater, undoubtedly a gem, is carved into the rocky landscape and was built by hand in the 1930s by a visionary woman named Rowena Cade. People come here from all over to experience the stunning views and see a wide range of performances, from Shakespearean plays to modern productions. The natural beauty of the setting only adds to the magic of the theater, making it an incredible place to take in some art and appreciate nature.
Avebury, Wiltshire
You have probably heard of Wiltshire’s iconic landmark Stonehenge, which has been a popular tourist destination in England for a long time. This makes a visit to the monument a crowded affair. Avebury, a lesser-known relative of Stonehenge, might be a much more appealing option for tourists who like a peaceful vacation. This group of stone circles, larger, older, and more accessible than Stonehenge, offers as much mystery as its famous cousin. They are accessible by foot, and there won’t be as many people around to block their view. While you are here, you can also explore the Avebury Manor and Garden, where you can enjoy the stunning gardens and interactive exhibits that bring the history of the area to life.
Wistman’s Wood, Devon
Nestled within Dartmoor National Park in Devon, Wistman’s Wood is a mystical and ancient woodland that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. This enchanting forest, a haven for nature lovers and photographers, is filled with gnarled oak trees covered in moss and lichens, creating an ethereal and otherworldly atmosphere. There are very few superior examples of this type of ecosystem in England, despite the fact that merely very few hectares of this old woodland remain. It is also believed to be one of the last remaining fragments of the ancient high-altitude oakwoods that once covered much of Dartmoor.
The Shell Grotto, Kent
The Shell Grotto in Kent is a fascinating and mysterious underground chamber adorned with intricate mosaics made of seashells, including mussels, whelks, scallops, cockles, limpets, and oysters. Uncovered in 1835, nobody is currently aware of the intended use of this underground passage. There is a skylight, and the mosaic is filled with stars, suns, and geometric patterns, demonstrating how far ahead of their time the designers were. With its magnificent rotunda and the altar at the center, theories vary from an ancient astronomical calendar to hidden meanings connected to the esoteric activities of Freemasons or the Knights Templar. There is also a museum, a store, and a café nearby that you can explore to shake off the place’s uncanniness after the visit.
Tyneham, Dorset
Tyneham is a ghost village located in Dorset, England, frozen in time and encapsulating a poignant history. The Domesday Book from 1086 mentions the region where this village is located, and there is proof that the area was home to people as early as the Iron Age. But it was evacuated during World War II for military purposes, and Tyneham has remained abandoned ever since. Visitors can now explore the deserted buildings including the village’s church, school, and several cottages, and gain insight into the lives of its former residents through displays and exhibitions.
Whitby, North Yorkshire
Whitby, located on the picturesque coast of North Yorkshire, is a charming seaside town steeped in history and folklore offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. The most popular landmark here is Whitby Abbey, perched on the cliffs above the town overlooking the sea. The initial monastery was established in 657 AD but was destroyed in the 9th century by Danish Vikings. Today, all that survives are the remnants of the second monastery, which was constructed in the 13th century. Visitors can climb the famous 199 steps to the abbey, which inspired Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” and enjoy panoramic views of the town and coastline.
Conclusion
England is full of incredible hidden gems, each offering a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else. From picturesque coastal towns to mysterious ancient sites, there’s something to explore for everyone. So, if you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience, going off the beaten path and discovering the hidden gems of England is the thing for you.
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