Wrap up warm and feel the fresh air on your face (Image: Getty Images)
As the new year unfolds, it brings with it a sense of new beginnings and the chance to explore. For those who thrive on discovering nature’s beauty across the British Isles, the possibilities are endless.
From Lake Windermere to the peaks of Eyryi, from the Scottish Highlands to the beaches of Cornwall, the UK is full of stunning hiking trails, coastlines and countryside.
If you’re looking for somewhere different to get your steps up this winter, how about exploring lesser-known destinations for a peaceful walk away from the crowds?
Heading out in winter is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the crisp, refreshing air and the serene beauty of frosty landscapes. Uncrowded beaches and deserted trails can also help to boost your mood and blow away the cobwebs after Christmas.
We’ve gathered 10 hidden gems, hailed as the best spots for adventure by Tripadvisor reviewers.
Derwent Damn is an impressive place for a country walk (Image: Getty Images)
1. Derwent Damn
The Derwent Dam is a historic dam located in Derbyshire, England, within the Peak District National Park. Offering a stunning blend of history, nature, and breathtaking scenery, it’s a fantastic destination for walkers, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The area also has a rich historic as a training site for the legendary RAF 617 Squadron during World War II and the The dam itself is an impressive example of early 20th century century stone construction, complete with neo-Gothic architecture.
Visitors on Tripadvisor have given it an overall 4.3 out of 5 rating, calling it “One of the nicest spots in England” that “offers beautiful walks all year round.”
Beddgelert is a beautiful Welsh village (Image: Getty Images)
2. Beddgelert
Beddgelert is a charming village located in North Wales, nestled within the Snowdonia National Park.
Visitors come to explore the stunning walking trails around the village, including those that lead to the summit of Moel Hebog or follow the riverside paths.
Then there is also the infamous Gelert’s Grave, where you can learn about the touching local legend of the faithful hound, Gelert, after whom the village is said to be named.
Visitors love the small but perfectly formed traditional Welsh village. A Tripadvisor user called KarenT left a five-star review that said: “Excellent place. Relaxing with fabulous views and scenery.
“Lovely river walks with the story of Gelert! Great Ice cream shop too. The steam train is also a bonus. We love visiting this little village.”
The Jacobite Steam Train (“Harry Potter train”) crossing on Glenfinnan Viaduct (Image: Getty Images)
3. Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is an iconic railway bridge located in the Scottish Highlands, near the village of Glenfinnan. It is renowned for its impressive structure and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including Loch Shiel and the iconic mountains beyond.
Completed in 1901, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is a 19-arched concrete bridge, standing 30 metres tall and 380 metres long. Famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films, it serves as the route of the Hogwarts Express.
With a 4.5 out of 5 score on Tripadvisor, visits are impressed with the iconic railway bridge and the Jacobite Steam traing, calling it “a must-visit,”a classic Harry Potter location” and “a bucket list destination.”
4. St Michael’s Mount
St Michael’s Mount is a small tidal island located off the coast of Marazion, in Cornwall, England. It is connected to the mainland by a causeway that becomes accessible at low tide.
Home to a medieval castle and a church, both of which are open to the public, the island is surrounded by stunning sea views. The picture perfect gardens and rocky outcrops make it a popular site for tourists and nature lovers alike.
An excellent choice for visitors to the West Country looking to do more than just relax on the beach, the historic island has an overall score of 4.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor.
LisaCloveHolidays left one of many five-star reviews. She said: “This is a must do day out!! What a wonderful place…It is a beautiful place, very calming and so well kept.”
St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall (Image: Getty Images)
The rugged landscape at Orford Ness (Image: Getty Images)
5. Orford Ness Nature Reserve
Orford Ness Nature Reserve combines rugged beauty with fascinating history making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, history buffs and outdoor adventurers alike.
Tucked away on the Suffolk coastline, the reserve is home to the UK’s largest vegetated shingle spit as well as rare birds and plants.. It also has an intriguing military history which can still be seen in the abandoned radar stations, Cold War pagodas and former RAF buildings.
Visitors are enchanted with the bleak landscape and fascinating history of the area. Only accessible by a dedicated ferry service, which helps to limit the number of visitors at any one time.
The Reserve has a 4.5 out of 5 rating on Trip advisor, with one reviewer saying: “Orford Ness is a fascinating place to visit. It is both bleak and awe inspiring and made special by the limited number of visitors.”
Other great places to explore include:
6. The Cwm Idwal Loop, North Wales
This stunning circular trail in Snowdonia National Park offers breathtaking views of Llyn Idwal, dramatic cliffs and rugged mountain scenery.
7. Blakeney Coast
The North Norfolk coastline is a tranquil haven of salt marshes, sand dunes, and tidal creeks. It’s also home to England’s largest grey seal colony.
Visit the seal colony in Blakeney (Image: Getty Images)
8. Robin Hood’s Bay
This breathtaking North Yorkshire coastline is far quieter in the winter, inviting visitors to brave the weather with its peaceful, cobbled streets, dramatic coastal views and cosy pubs with roaring fires.
9. Tintagel Castle
The Devon landmark is striking all year round, but bleak winter weather adds depth to the mystical allure of King Arthur’s legend and rugged coastal beauty.
10. Wotton under Edge
While the Cotswold are a magnet for tourists whatever the weather, this ‘hidden gem’ is known for charming Cotswold stone streets, warm local tearooms and picturesque countryside walks that feel magical in the crisp, frosty air.