There is no shortage of places to travel to in the UK, but many people want somewhere that is scenic, yet not overrun by tourists.
If looking for an outdoor hidden gem, experts have rounded up the best 15 places to visit in England.
Blog author and outdoor enthusiast at Millets Sam Chadwick explained: "In recent years, more people have discovered the benefits of spending time outdoors, with hotspots like Mam Tor and Scafell Pike growing in popularity. We have compiled a list of England's best hidden gems, for those who want to avoid the crowds whilst enjoying the outdoors."
The compilation found 15 lesser-known locations across the country, rated by visitors on TripAdvisor. These destinations offer the same natural beauty without the bustling crowds.
Embleton Bay was at the top of the list
GETTYEmbleton Bay in Northumberland has emerged as England's highest-rated hidden gem, earning a 4.9 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor.
The secluded beach features low dunes and views of Dunstanburgh Castle ruins, located just minutes from Embleton village. Visitors have praised it as "perfection in the form of solitude" and a "must-visit" destination.
The complete list of England's top hidden outdoor gems
- Embleton Bay, Northumberland (4.9)
- Porth Joke, Cornwall (4.8)
- Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire (4.8)
- Barricane Beach, Devon (4.7)
- Kingley Vale, West Sussex (4.7)
- Norsey Wood, Essex (4.7)
- Warburg Nature Reserve, Oxfordshire (4.6)
- Portheras Cove, Cornwall (4.5)
- Lantic Bay, Cornwall (4.5)
- Cardinham Woods, Cornwall (4.5)
- RSPB Hodbarrow Nature Reserve, Cumbria (4.5)
- Forest of Bowland, Lancashire (4.5)
- Runswick Bay, Yorkshire (4.5)
- Box Hill, Surrey (4.5)
- Heartwood Forest, Hertfordshire (4.5)
Two destinations share second place with 4.8 ratings. Porth Joke, located five miles from Newquay, features rocky outcrops, cliffs and turquoise waters alongside its sandy beach.
The cove's natural walls provide shelter from coastal winds, creating a more peaceful environment than neighbouring beaches. The Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire offers a different experience entirely, with thick woodland, lakes and picturesque villages.
The forest attracts outdoor enthusiasts with its extensive walking routes, cycling paths and equestrian trails. Both locations provide tranquil alternatives to busier tourist destinations whilst maintaining accessibility for visitors seeking natural beauty without crowds.
The remaining five destinations scoring 4.5 include RSPB Hodbarrow Nature Reserve in Cumbria, the Forest of Bowland in Lancashire, Runswick Bay in Yorkshire, Box Hill in Surrey and Heartwood Forest in Hertfordshire.
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Porth Joke in Cornwall was also recommended as a lesser-known destination
GETTY
These locations span from northern England to the Home Counties, demonstrating the widespread availability of peaceful outdoor spaces.
Cornwall dominates the list with four entries, whilst destinations in traditionally busier counties like Surrey and Hertfordshire prove that tranquil spots exist even near major population centres.
The geographical diversity ensures most visitors can find a highly-rated hidden gem within a reasonable travelling distance of their location.
This comes as experts share the best walks that have "dramatic sea views and quaint coastal villages".
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