The UK has gone through what can only be described as a tourism renaissance these past few years – while it’s always been one of the world’s most coveted hotspots, it’s never seen the level of interest and popularity it’s experiencing right now.
Unfortunately, that also means that some of our all-time favorite hubs (especially London) are getting a bit too crowded for comfort, which is why those looking for the ultimate relaxing and authentic experience across the Atlantic this year need to think a bit out of the box when it comes to choosing a destination.
And what better way to find a place just like that than to figure out where the locals themselves are heading off to this summer?
That’s where the newest Sykes Cottages study can come in handy.
The short-term rental company polled over 2000 Brits on their travel plans this upcoming season, and their answers unveiled some of the UK’s most underrated destinations that you should definitely add to your bucket list:
5. Windermere, Cumbria
Cumbria has emerged as the place to be this summer, with its first (out of three) entry on today’s list being none other than Windermere.
Nestled in the heart of the Lake District National Park, this fairytale-like town promises everything a nature lover could want, from guided cruises and water sports to jaw-dropping hiking trails like the Orrest Head Walk that cater to visitors of all fitness levels.
The views are far from the only thing drawing in so many Brits to Windermere, though.
Here, people can take in the grandeur and history of places like the Wray Castle or Blackwell, all while indulging in some traditional Herdwick lamb or locally sourced fish – if that doesn’t seem like the perfect countryside getaway, I don’t know what does.
4. Ambleside, Cumbria
The second Cumbria gem we have today is Ambleside, yet another charming town that’s located just a 12-minute drive away from Windermere.
Here, you’ll get to see the historic Rydal Mount and Gardens, marvel at the Stock Ghyll Force waterfall, follow the footsteps of ancient Romans in the Ambleside Fort, and soak in the local literary past through the Armitt Museum and Library.
Between Windermere’s incredible natural sights and Ambleside’s fantastic cultural scene, you’ll get the experience of a lifetime, so if you’re ever in Cumbria, making the 12-minute drive between the two is a must.
3. Keswick, Cumbria
If you have some room in your itinerary for a third destination, you’ll be happy to learn that Keswick is just 40 minutes away from Windermere and 30 minutes away from Ambleside – a bit further, sure, but still nothing that would derail your schedule too much.
The trip will seem especially worth it once you actually get here and see that the bustling market town surrounded by the dramatic peaks of Skiddaw is surprisingly different than everything you’ve seen so far.
In Keswick, you’ll get to actually enjoy a more typical summery experience, complete with sunbathing, rowboat rentals, and unreal views from Friar’s Crag.
City trippers will fall in love with Theatre by the Lake and Keswick Museum, whereas those looking for something more physical can always hike through Catbells or try their hand at climbing, paragliding, or even mine touring over at the Honister Slate Mine.
2. Whitby, North Yorkshire
As far as scenic seaside towns go, Whitby might as well be the poster child.
Just take a look at these views and tell me this doesn’t look like something straight out of a book or movie.
The building you’ll see dominating the skyline is the iconic Whitby Abbey, which, along with the beach that goes by the same name, creates the most incredible, otherworldly vibe.
While here, you also won’t want to miss out on the Captain Cook Memorial Museum or the amazing North York Moors National Park where you can just sit back and enjoy some takeout fish and chips from either Magpie Café or Trenchers.
1. Weymouth, Dorset
The top UK destination of the summer according to Skyes Cottages is a seaside town in the stunning Dorset district.
Weymouth is guaranteed to amaze you not only with its sandy beaches and colorful buildings, but also its incredible array of attractions, including (but not limited to) Jurassic Skyline, Nothe Fort, Sea Life Adventure Park, and the historic town harbor.
If you have a bit of leeway in your itinerary, I can’t recommend timing your visit so it coincides with either the Weymouth Carnival or the Pommery Dorset Seafood Festival enough.
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