13 Unusual Places to Visit UK + Hotels • from a local!

England isn’t just London – there are so many gorgeous hidden gems to explore. Let us guide you through the most unusual spots for a true adventure.

Looking for epic days out in the UK, a weekend away, or just a change of scenery? I’ve gathered the TOP most unusual places to visit in the UK for every occasion and taste!

I was born and bred in the UK, and I love to explore the country and find weird and wonderful places to visit. 

Forget the tourist spots – take the road less traveled by and follow me on a journey through the most unique and unusual places to visit, from romantic getaways and haunted castles to cave art and a paradise for foodies.

Here are my favorite unique spots – click the links to take you straight down to the heading:

1. Knaresborough – for ancient legends

Located in North Yorkshire, Knaresborough is pretty special. And if you’re a lover of all things legendary, you’re in the right place!

If you’re looking for a market town with plenty of activities and cute boutique shops, Knaresborough is a winner. You can spend a few days here getting immersed in Yorkshire life, relaxing, and enjoying the countryside!

Knaresborough is a traditional place full of medieval streets, historical landmarks, and most importantly, Mother Shipton’s Cave!

Mother Shipton’s cave is an ancient attraction that follows the story of England’s most famous prophetess. Akin to the likes of Nostradamus, she predicted the Great Fire of London in 1666 among many other historical events!

Of course, who’s to say any of her predictions were real? Go find out for yourself and see the cave where she was born!

Unusual things to do in Knaresborough

• Visit Mother Shipton’s Cave
• Tour around Knaresborough Castle & Courthouse Museum
• Take a stroll around Allerton Castle (map)
• Have a piece of cake at Scarlett’s Vintage Tea rooms (map)
• Rent a rowing boat at the riverside

Fancy a tour around North Wales and Yorkshire? This 5-day tour includes a driver, transportation, and 4 nights accommodation for a journey around the UK you won’t forget! You’ll go to Stratford-upon-Avon, Snowdonia, York, Knaresborough, Lincoln, and Cambridge (+more!), so it’s well worth the price for an exploration deep into England!

NOTE: boat rentals in Knaresborough are only available March through October.

Where to stay in Knaresborough

If you’re not taking a tour, you’ll need to find a cute place to stay! Here are my favorites for all budgets:

Lux

Goldsborough Hall – fancy feeling like royalty? Four-poster beds await in this stately manor that was once the home of Princess Mary, great aunt of King Charles III! It’s grand, unspoilt, and even has his-and-hers sinks in the ensuite bathrooms. ~£150 p/night

Mid-range

The Knaresborough Inn – this gorgeous hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway! Think: lounge fireplaces, cozy rooms, stunning grounds, and an on-site bar. ~£100 p/night

Budget

The Kestrel – just a 10-minute drive from Knaresborough, this traditional hotel is super charming, cozy, and the best pub food around! ~£60 p/night

Airbnb

Guest house – if you want your own space, this is a fab option. It’s one of the most loved homes on Airbnb, and it has the most incredible views from the terrace! ~160 p/night

2. Kelburn Castle – for art lovers

If you haven’t seen Kelburn Castle before, you’re missing out!

Kelburn Castle, also known as the Graffiti Castle, is thought to have been built around 1143. Located right between Fairlie and Largs, it’s renowned for its graffitied walls!

The graffiti is a testament to Brazilian graffiti art, and the entire south side of the structure is covered! 

It’s truly a sight to see – but there are also plenty of things to do around the castle grounds, such as a secret forest, a campsite, a ton of wildlife, and even pony rides!

Kelburn Castle is home to 2 absolutely spectacular yew trees inside the walled garden. These trees are over 1,000 years old!

The nearest place to stay is Fairlie, which is a small but interesting village right on the seafront. There is a sandy beach there (but it does rain a lot in Scotland) and you can also visit the waterfalls! You can also stay in Largs, which is just north of the castle.

You can get to Fairlie or Largs easily by train from Glasgow. 

Unusual things to do in Fairlie & Largs

• Go for a hike along Fairlie Glens & Waterfalls Circular
• Enjoy fresh seafood at The Catch at Fins Restaurant (map) 
• Book an alpaca walk at Kelburn Castle
• Take a tour around Hunterston Castle

Where to stay in Fairlie

Here are the TOP places to stay near Kelburn Castle – bear in mind that it’s pretty rural around here, so you will probably need a car for a couple of these!

Lux

Beach House No2 – this place is right on the beach! You’ll have AMAZING views and can enjoy your own unit with a fully-equipped kitchen, dining space, and a terrace. It’s perfect for couples! ~£220 p/night

Mid-range

Haylie Hotel – this hotel is super cute, and it’s right in the center of Largs! It’s along the beachfront so it’s perfect for watersports, and the terrace overlooking the bay is just stunning. ~£135 p/night

Budget

Dawn Break Guest House – a cozy stay in Largs, this hotel is just a short walk from the beach. It’s quiet and charming, and close to shops and restaurants. You can enjoy a lovely Scottish breakfast here! ~£80 p/night

Airbnb

Fairlie Cottage – ideal for a small family, this Victorian cottage is great for hikers and anyone who loves the countryside! It has 3 beds and it’s so cozy! ~£80 p/night

3. Bardsey Island, Gwynedd – for watersports

Bardsey Island in North Wales is a super remote, mysterious place to visit in the UK. Fantastic for hikers and those who love to explore the wilderness, Bardsey Island will steal your heart in no time.

The coastline around here is absolutely breathtaking, and it’s now a Special Area of Conservation for the wildlife residing there, so if you love birdwatching, this is the spot for you!

Open from March through October, you can book day trips or even weekly stays with the Bardsey Island Trust. Day trips are around 3-4 hours – take a look at the boat times here, they leave from Uwchmynydd.

The best watersports on offer will be around Llyn Padarn and Abersoch, not too far from Bardsey! You can go surfing, jet skiing, kayaking, and so much more.

Snowdonia in general is full of the most amazing adventures. I highly recommend staying a couple of days on the island, then head out into Snowdonia to finish your trip on a high! 

NOTE: Bardsey Island itself is not dog-friendly.

Unusual things to do in Gwynedd

• Walk around the Llyn coastal path (and stop off at Caffi Porthor for breakfast! Map)
• Go kayaking at Llyn Padarn
• Experience a thrill with extreme canyoning!
• Hike to the top of Mount Snowdon with a guide for epic views and insider pathways!

PRO TIP: I seriously recommend driving around here! Don’t rely on public transport 🚌

Where to stay in Gwynedd

I highly recommend staying on Bardsey Island itself – you can book a cottage or loft here!

Want more options or prefer to stay in civilization? Here’s the best of the best in the area:

Lux

3-Bed Cottage – located in Mynytho, this cottage is perfect for a family or a group of friends. It’s huge, with gorgeous grounds and a lovely little terrace with fairy lights for the ultimate ambience! It’s just a 25 min drive from Uwchmynydd. ~£300 p/night

Mid-range

Aberdaron Lodge – for a super cozy stay with a fireplace in the dining room, BBQ facilities, and an amazing view of the seafront, this place is IT. It can house up to 6 people + a baby, and Mount Snowdon is just an hour’s drive away. ~£170 p/night (3 night minimum stay)

Budget

The Ship Hotel – located in Aberdaron, The Ship has everything you need with extra coziness added! The breakfast is amazing, and it’s also a pub, so that glass of wine you’ve been craving is just downstairs! ~£130 p/night

Airbnb

Cottage in Pwllheli – guys, book up quickly, I might come here myself! This is perfect for a couple, and it’s one of the most loved homes on Airbnb! It’s a total paradise with direct views onto coastal scenery and endless stargazing opportunities. ~£70 p/night

4. Creswell Crags, Worksop – for Ice Age cave art

The Peak District National Park is one of Britain’s most beautiful areas. Located between Manchester and Nottingham, you can do SO many things there, from hiking and camping to seeing historical sites and museums. 

If you’re looking for unique and unusual things to do in the Peak District, Creswell Crags is totally worth a visit. 

Creswell Crags is the perfect spot for history buffs looking for a sneak peek into Britain’s prehistoric past! First discovered in the 19th century, it’s even older than Stonehenge!

The cave art is pretty cool, and you can learn all about life in the ice age with a tour through the caves! Check out the tours on the official website here.

PRO TIP: I recommend driving if you’re heading into the Peak District! Public transport isn’t amazing in the most rural spots and you’ll have a lot more freedom if you drive.

Unusual things to do in the Peak District

• Discover Britain’s most gorgeous pubs (+inclusive drinks!)
• Adventure through the Peak District with these self-guided hiking routes & local recs
• Visit the Heights of Abraham in a bubble car (tickets)
• Take the kids to Buxton Opera House for events & quirky movies

Where to stay in the Peak District

If you’re heading to the caves, I recommend staying in and around Worksop, the closest town. It’s so pretty! Here are the TOP hotels in Worksop:

Lux

Pringles Orchard – a couple of mins drive north of Worksop, this holiday home is GORGEOUS. There’s a lovely garden, 3 bedrooms, and super quiet country vibes. Epic choice for a family – you’d better beat me to it! ~£300 p/night

Mid-range

Clumber Lane End Farm – this B&B is so cute! There’s plenty of activities around, such as golfing and horse riding, and there’s even a watersports park nearby! The setting is so beautiful, you won’t want to leave! NOTE: there’s a 2-night minimum stay. ~£115 p/night

Budget

Lion Hotel – right in the town center and close to the bus station for those who don’t have a car, this place is basic but has everything you need, including super comfy beds! Staff are really helpful and apparently the breakfast is amazing! ~£72 p/night

Airbnb

Homely House – if you love your own space, this home is right in the town center and has amazing reviews. There are 2 bedrooms and space for a family with 2 kids. There’s even a fireplace to cozy up your adventure! ~£60 p/night

5. Alnwick – for Harry Potter enthusiasts

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland is pretty special! Aside from its stunning location, it’s a haven for Harry Potter AND Downton Abbey fans! 

Alnwick was the filming location for the Philosopher’s Stone and the Chamber of Secrets – walking around, you’ll probably recognise where Harry learned to play Quidditch!

The former home of Jane Percy, it’s the second largest still-inhabited castle in the UK. The Percy family still live there today! Get tickets here.

The grounds are also home to the Alnwick Poison Garden, where you can explore some of the most poisonous plants on earth! There’s also a fine-dining treehouse which is the most romantic way to end a poisonous day 🪴

I absolutely LOVED Alnwick, it’s so quaint and pretty. Being a Harry Potter fan myself, it really was a trip to remember!

Unusual things to do in Alnwick

• Take the stress out of your trip with a tour of Northumberland + Alnwick from Edinburgh!
• Get your bookworm on at Barter Books, Alnwick’s quirky bookstore
• See a play at the Alnwick Playhouse (see what’s on here)
• Head over to Alnmouth Beach (map) for a kid-friendly day trip 

Where to stay in Alnwick

Lux

The Cookie Jar – right in the heart of the town, The Cookie Jar is gorgeous. Rainfall showers, complimentary cookies, a beautiful terrace, library room, AND pet-friendly rooms? Yes please! ~£220 p/night

Mid-range

The Hog’s Head Inn – if you’re a fan of classic English pubs, this is perfect for you. It’s traditionally decorated with super homey rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a lovely full English breakfast every morning. They’re also famous for their steaks! ~£125 p/night 

Budget

Oronsay Guest House – great for budgeteers who want to stay close to the castle, Oronsay is super cute! There’s a lovely inner courtyard and free chocolates in your room. A real home away from home! ~£90 p/night

Airbnb

Puddleduck Cottage – fancy your own Northumberland cottage? This place is SO cozy, with a working fireplace and a little garden right in the center of Alnwick. There are 2 bedrooms (perfect for 2-3 people) and it’s one of the most loved homes on Airbnb! ~£100 p/night

6. Sandwich – for history buffs

Sandwich, a market town in Kent, is SO pretty. Known as one of the most well-preserved medieval towns in the country, it’s a haven for those who love to step back in history and enjoy a quiet getaway weekend. 

The town is full of lovely old pubs, like The Red Cow, George & Dragon, and The Crispin Inn. If you’re a fan of traditional English pubs, you’ll love it here!

But Sandwich isn’t just any old town with nothing to do. You can take a fun town tour with the Local History Society! It’s only £2 p/person – call Mike Elmes on +447773 335612 for bookings. 

There are also plenty of museums, including an old courtroom, the Guildhall history museum, and the restored Miller’s Cottage at White Mill Heritage Centre. 

River tours are also really popular here in Sandwich – the River Runner is your best bet! You can spot seals along the River Stour and take in the fresh air. I’m not kidding when I say those seals are seriously cute. Get your tickets here!

Unusual things to do in Sandwich

• Grab a sandwich at No Name Shop (map)
• Head over to the Richborough Roman Fort & Amphitheatre
• Climb to the top of St. Peter’s Church for epic views
• Take a stroll through Gazen Salts Nature Reserve

Where to stay in Sandwich

Lux

Luxury 3-Bed Home – perfect for a family, this lovely home is close to the center of Sandwich and even has a little picnic area! It’s clean, comfortable, and the owner leaves a little gift for anyone staying! ~£200 p/night

Mid-range

The Bell Hotel – located right on the quayside, this place has four poster beds and gorgeous views! It’s excellent value for money and you can enjoy local meat and seafood in their restaurant! ~£125 p/night

Budget

The New Inn – a classic English pub with live music on Thursdays and Saturdays, this budget option is just a few steps from the train station. Breakfast is hearty and delicious, and the beds are super comfy! ~£85 p/night 

Airbnb

Cottage with Zen Garden – love a cozy English cottage? This place is really popular, so book in advance! The garden is quiet and pretty, and there are 3 bedrooms. There’s even a snug little library room! ~£86 p/night

7. Forbidden Corner, Middleham – strangest place in the world

Known as the strangest place in the world, Forbidden Corner is a vast labyrinth of tunnels, caves, weird structures, and full of surprises at every turn!

Deep in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, Forbidden Corner is a fab choice for families looking for unique things to do with kids in the UK. 

It’s such a cool day out, and you can even stay in one of the 7 cottages on the grounds. 

PRO TIP: don’t forget to buy the Yorkshire Dales Monopoly board at their gift shop!

NOTE: You’ll need to pre-book your tickets in advance – find your tickets here. 

While you’re there, I highly recommend visiting Middleham’s Harmby Waterfall. It’s super peaceful there, perfect right after it’s rained. So if you’re in for a gentle hike with the family, this is perfect – and there’s a great pub opposite the entrance!

Unusual things to do around Middleham

• Visit the ruins of Jervaulx Abbey
• Grab a classic fish & chips at Middleham Fish Bar (map)
• Shop for little treasures at Country Cupboard Antiques
• Drive down to Wensleydale to try some famous cheese (map)

Where to stay around Middleham

If the main reason for coming is Forbidden Corner, stay there! Check out the cottages here. Otherwise, here are the best places to stay in the area:

Lux

Eastfield Glamping Farm – up for a luxury adventure? Get your own chalet for 2-4 people! Perfect for romance and surrounded by gorgeous countryside, get ready for the most peaceful stay of your life. ~£210 p/night

Mid-range

The Saddle Room – right next to Forbidden Corner, this place has rustic rooms with wooden floors and romantic bay windows. I’m in love! ~£145 p/night

Budget

Cow Close Camping Pods – looking for cool places to stay on a budget? These little pods are seriously budget-friendly and basic amenities are available there. The pods are really warm, cozy, and clean, and they’re right in nature! ~£80 p/night

Airbnb

Hideaway Cottage – a guest favorite, this cottage is so homey! Think: original wooden beams, warm fireplaces, cozy chairs, and rustic charm. It’s just a few steps from the local pub (win) and pets are welcome. Suitable for 2 people. ~£120 p/night

8. Cheddar Gorge – for a family-friendly break

Cheddar Gorge is a childhood favorite of mine. We used to go there as a family all the time, and honestly, it was so much fun!

Deep in the Mendip Hills, Somerset, Cheddar Gorge is absolutely iconic. If you’re a fan of stalactite caves, wildlife, and ancient history, this is the spot for you. 

If you’re a real adventurer, you’ll probably love their caving and rock climbing activities! The caving may not be for the faint of heart, but it’ll be a story to remember. 

If you’re a hiker, you’ll love the cliff-top walk – a 3-mile exploration and some of the most incredible views in Somerset!

While you’re there, don’t forget to visit the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Co, the manufacturer of the only cheddar actually made in Cheddar! (map)

Unusual things to do in Cheddar

• Head up to Lion Rock Tea Rooms for classic British afternoon tea and cakes
• Rent a bike from Wedmore (map) and cycle down the Strawberry Line
• Visit Gough’s Cave, where the UK’s oldest complete skeleton was discovered
• Drive down to Wookey Hole for more caving excitement

Where to stay in Cheddar

Lux

The Bath Arms Hotel – an epic choice for those who want to be close to the caves, this hotel is simple, clean, and beautiful. The rooms are modern and people rave about the food! ~£135 p/night

Mid-range

Gordons – a fab option for couples, this place is in the perfect location for the cliff-top walk! If you’re traveling in the summer, you’ll love the outdoor pool. The hosts will also give you local recs to make your stay even better! ~£110 p/night

Budget

Wassells House – if you love to have your own unit, this B&B offers rooms with cute little kitchenettes with complimentary food! Located right on the outskirts of Cheddar, it’s amazing value for money. ~£90 p/night

Airbnb

Cozy Cottage – literally a few minutes’ walk from the caves, this cottage with a real fireplace will be your home away from home. Perfect for a couple or a small family, it’s also pet-friendly so you can bring your pooch! ~£80 p/night

9. Glastonbury – for witchcraft lovers

Feeling witchy? Glastonbury it is!

You probably know all about Glastonbury’s world-renowned music Festival, but how much do you know about Glastonbury itself?

Known as the quirkiest town in England, Glastonbury is steeped in history. Its unusual corner shops are filled with witchy crystals and knick knacks, and you’ll also find local soothsayers, a goddess temple, and sacred healing spaces.

There are also TONS of vegan/vegetarian restaurants in Glastonbury! Rainbows End Cafe (map) is my personal favorite, with the most amazing salads, cakes, and mezze. 

Glastonbury Abbey, Britain’s oldest Christian structure, is linked to the Gospels and King Arthur! It’s said to be his final resting place, and although there is some doubt as to whether King Arthur really existed, you can see his alleged tomb in the grounds of the Abbey!

The great thing about this unusual place to visit is that it’s not far from Cheddar! You can spend a day in Cheddar and then make the short drive down to end your trip in Glastonbury. Win-win!

Unusual things to do in Glastonbury

• See Glastonbury AND Cheddar Gorge in this all-in-one day trip from London!
• Take a spiritual walking tour up to Glastonbury Tor with a shaman guide
• Go to The King Arthur pub for open mic nights & live music
• Have a quiet moment at the Glastonbury Goddess Temple (map)
• Self-reflect at a silent retreat at The Sacred Garden

Where to stay in Glastonbury

Lux

The Covenstead – as one reviewer put it, it’s like stepping into a museum of witchcraft! The rooms here are cozy and unusual. It’s right in the center of Glastonbury so you’ll be close to everything, and all the rooms have a little kitchenette. ~£220 p/night

Mid-range

The Overlook Bed & Breakfast – spotlessly clean and right in the center of everything! The breakfasts here are lovely and you can enjoy them in your room. It’s a real home away from home! ~£150 p/night

Budget

Starlight Cottage Room – with epic views and just a 30-min walk from the summit of Glastonbury Tor, this place is perfect for a couple or solo traveler. Great for those who want to wake up to nature! ~£68 p/night

Airbnb

Flying Dragon’s Nest – fancy amazing views from your own little terrace? Yes please! This 1-bed apartment can comfortably accommodate 2-3 people and you can spend your evenings watching the sunsets. ~£78 p/night

10. Lyme Regis – for fossil hunting

Love a bit of paleontology? The seaside town of Lyme Regis is a goldmine!

Aside from being absolutely stunning and a popular vacation destination for beach lovers, it’s a haven for prehistoric fossils.

Lyme Regis is known as the Pearl of Dorset, and with good reason! Right on the Jurassic Coast, it’s a place to relax, rewind, and recharge.

The best spots for fossil hunting around here are Monmouth Beach (where ammonites abound, map) and East Cliff Beach. Just be careful at East Cliff and don’t go too far against the cliffs! 

Anything you find on these beaches, you’re allowed to keep! 

PRO TIP: if you’re going fossil hunting, wear good shoes! The rocks are super slippery and accidents do happen, so tread carefully.

NOTE: check the tide timings before you go! I was almost engulfed by the tide coming in when I visited 😂don’t be like me, plan ahead!

Unusual things to do in Lyme Regis

• Grab a bite to eat at Tom’s (map) and watch the sunset!
• Take the kids to the Dinosaurland Fossil Museum
• Try a yoga class on the beach with Maitri Yoga (book here)
• Go to The Sanctuary for cheap, cozy literature (map)

Where to stay in Lyme Regis

Lux

Rock Point Inn – right in front of Lyme Regis Beach, this place is epic. The terrace has absolutely incredible views, and it’s also a pub, so you can take a load off after a day of fossil hunting! I stayed here when I visited, and I have to say the beds were SO comfy! ~£180 p/night

Mid-range

Period Seaside Flat – this flat is so cute! There’s an adorable little turret (just like a princess house) and a direct view of the seafront. It’s a 1-bed apartment perfect for a couple looking for some quiet romance ~£170 p/night

Budget

Clovelly Guest House – people are raving about the breakfast here! Think: classic English breakfast, with porridge, crumpets, toast, eggs, and more – great to fill those bellies before a day of exploring! ~£110 p/night

Airbnb

Cottage in Uplyme – I LOVE this place, the French doors are calling out to me! You can sit here in the evenings with the doors open to the garden and feel the sea breeze on your face. Sigh. Great for a couple! ~£120 p/night

11. The Garlic Farm, Isle of Wight – for foodies

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This might be my favorite place on the earth. It’s a farm shop, restaurant, and homestay – and I’m literally obsessed!

The shop itself is famous, and a really REALLY good reason to visit the Isle of Wight. There’s no other farm shop quite like it!

Sadly, my husband is allergic to garlic. But that just means there’s more for me! I LOVE their chutneys!

You can take long walks on the farm, hang out in their restaurant, learn all about the farm, and even stay in one of their cottages! 

The Garlic Farm is one of the most family-friendly (and the tastiest) visits on this list. They even have fun events and live music on Sundays. You really could spend an entire weekend here – and I seriously recommend it!

Unusual things to do on the Isle of Wight

• Visit Osborne House, the former vacation home of Queen Victoria (tickets)
• Go birdwatching (try to spot the White-Tailed Eagle!)
• Trek with alpacas with West Wight Alpacas & Llamas
• Hire a beach hut and have a picnic on the beach (bookings here)

Where to stay on the Isle of Wight

Heading to the Isle of Wight for the Garlic Farm? I recommend staying right on the farm itself! 

They have self-catering accommodation (cottages and yurts) in a beautiful setting. See the options here. 

12. Blists Hill – for an immersive Victorian experience

I went to Blists Hill in Shropshire for the first time on a school trip, and going back as an adult was just as much fun – if not more!

If you didn’t already know, Blists Hill is a Victorian Town! Every aspect of Victorian life has been preserved in this open-air museum, and it’s a real gem. 

You can even visit old Victorian shops, cottages, pharmacies, sweet shops – the list is neverending! 

It’s a small thing, but I really loved the fact that you have to exchange your money for shillings and pence in the bank! It really brought the experience to life, and you can get as much as your shillings will buy!

While you’re there, don’t forget to stop by the bakery! Their shortbread is UNBELIEVABLY good, you’d be a fool to miss it!

This place is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it’s a must-visit. Buy your tickets online here. 

Unusual things to do in Blists Hill

• Check out the view from the Iron Bridge
• Try some Victorian rock sweets (they’ll break your teeth, eat with caution! 🤪)
• Decorate china flowers at the Coalport China Museum
• Go glamping at Iron Gorge Camping

Where to stay near Blists Hill

Don’t fancy glamping? That’s ok, here are the top places to stay for your Victorian break!

Lux

Calcutts House – four poster beds in a serene setting? Yes!! Period elegance meets convenience at this 4-star hotel, and it’s right next to a lot of museums about the industrial revolution. ~£100 p/night

Mid-range

White Hart Inn – serious value for money awaits! Gastropub-meets-hotel at this romantic spot, and the beds are suuuuper comfortable. People say the food is worthy of a Michelin star! ~£80 p/night

Budget

The Swan Taphouse – this place is an 18th century malthouse, just a few minutes’ walk from the Iron Bridge. Live music is popular here, but otherwise it’s a quiet spot with friendly staff 🙂~£60 p/night

Airbnb

Off-Grid Yurt – if you’re looking for romance on your Victorian vacation, this yurt hits the spot. A guest favorite, there’s an outdoor pizza oven, a wood-fired hot tub, and fairy lights for the ultimate romantic trip! ~£112 p/night

13. The Ancient Ram Inn – for a ghostly break

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I’m not kidding when I say this place is terrifying. Known as the most haunted building in England, all sorts of creepy things take place at The Ancient Ram Inn.

Located in Wotton-Under-Edge in the heart of the Cotswolds, it’s the oldest structure in the area and has the strangest history!

I grew up in the Cotswolds just a short drive from The Ancient Ram Inn, and I’ve heard so many stories it almost put me off! But if you’re a lover of all things afterlife, definitely book an overnight ghost hunt!

NOTE: overnights are only available Fridays and Saturdays, but you can also book an afternoon tour on a Sunday afternoon. Call them to book: 07394 633 807

Unusual things to do in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is pretty big! If you’re heading around Wotton-Under-Edge, these are the best things to do within an hour’s drive:

• Take a hike on Rodborough Common to see epic views of Stroud
• See a unique and underrated movie at the Electric Cinema
• Grab a cake at the Painswick Rococo Garden (tickets here)
• Visit the Chedworth Roman Villa
• Take the kids to Pick a Pot and paint gorgeous pottery (booking essential)

Where to stay in the Cotswolds

If you’re booking an overnight haunt at The Ancient Ram Inn, you don’t need a hotel at all! Otherwise, see below for the best places to stay around Wotton-Under-Edge

Lux

The Bear of Rodborough – I grew up round the corner from The Bear, and my dad still stays here all the time when he’s traveling for work. The staff are excellent, the beds are comfy, and the grounds are beautiful. It’s just a short drive from The Ram Inn! ~£180 p/night

Mid-range

Forthay Bed & Breakfast – true Cotswolds charm reigns free here in North Nibley! The garden is stunning, it’s lovely and quiet, and there are resident dogs to play with. Yay! ~£120 p/night

Budget

The Cotswold Nook – does exactly what it says on the tin: it’s a cute little nook in the heart of Dursley! Perfect for 2 people, the landlord is so nice! They’ll provide food essentials and even a cheeky bar of chocolate. ~£99 p/night

Airbnb

Peaceful Cottage – this small, south-facing cottage is just heaven. Right on your doorstep you have miles and miles of untouched Cotswold scenery, and there’s a wood burning stove where you can sit on rainy nights and sip hot choc. Sigh. ~£128 p/night

FAQs about unusual places to visit in the UK

😛 What are some fun things to do in England for young adults?

I recommend Glastonbury if you’re looking for fun things to do for young adults! It’s full of weird wonders and magic – and hidden gems abound if you look hard enough!

💌 What are the most unique places to visit in England for couples?

If you’re looking for romance, I highly recommend Lyme Regis. It’s so beautiful and you can spend time together looking for fossils and having picnics on the beach. 

💂 What are the most unusual places to visit in London?

God’s Own Junkyard is a pretty unusual place to visit in London! Wacky memorabilia, neon signs and artwork, and weird and wonderful knick knacks await in this cool place in Walthamstow.

🦚 What is the prettiest place to visit in the UK?

The prettiest place to visit in the UK is the Cotswolds. If you’re looking for quaint, pretty spots, definitely check out Bibury! Just a few mins’ drive from Cirencester, it’s absolutely stunning – and the cottages are just so cute!!

🚡 What is the least visited place in the UK?

Among the least visited places in the UK, Berwickshire in Scotland is probably the most underrated. It’s gorgeous, and not many people go there compared to the more touristy spots like the Lake District. 

Conclusion

Phew! That was a real journey – from graffitied castles and ancient cave art, to epic paleontological escapades and haunted inns, these were some of the most unusual places to visit in the UK.

To be honest, there are many more. The UK is FULL of hidden gems, you just have to find them! 

Happy travels!

Lizzie