In recent years, savvy travellers have embraced a fresh approach to exploring the world – taking them away from bustling tourist hotspots and into the heart of lesser-known gems. This trend, known as Detour Destinations, prioritises unique, quieter spots that reveal the beauty of local charm and overcrowded attractions.
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The Ultimate Holiday Guide
Whether you’re in need of a peaceful retreat or simply want to get more bang for your buck on your holiday, these detour destinations offer top-notch experiences at a fraction of the cost. As Expedia and other travel news sources report, these locales are on the rise, as holidaymakers are increasingly looking to make their trips more memorable without breaking the bank.
Plan a Trip with Expedia
Booking a hotel via Expedia is a seamless experience that offers convenience and choice at your fingertips. With just a few clicks, you can browse through a wide array of cosy boutique hotels to luxurious resorts, tailored to your preferences and budget. Compare prices, read reviews from fellow travellers, and explore amenities, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay for your trip.
What is a Detour Destination?
Detour Destinations are all about the road less travelled, from secluded rural hideaways to undiscovered coastal towns. This trend is rapidly gaining momentum as travellers seek a break from the ordinary. Instead of flocking to the usual tourist hotspots, detour travel invites you to explore the allure of quieter, offbeat locations brimming with charm and devoid of overwhelming crowds.
Playing into this idea, detour destinations often star local attractions, reveal stunning natural landscapes, and celebrate the hidden history sometimes overlooked in traditional holiday itineraries.
Detour destinations are about taking a step back to immerse yourself in the local world, where quieter corners offer authentic experiences. So, whether you’re exploring tranquil waters, strolling through historic streets, or diving into regional dishes, detouring leads you to new, refreshing travel experiences without the rush of peak tourism.
Benefits of Choosing Detour Destinations
The key advantages of opting for a detour destination include:
– Cost Savings: Often, these less-popular spots have lower prices, so you can enjoy superior experiences for less.
– Reduced Crowds: A quieter trip makes relaxing and connecting with your surroundings easier.
– Local Charm: Detour destinations let you experience local culture in a way that’s hard to find in busier areas.
– Unique Experiences: Discover places with remarkable character that are off the beaten path.
Top Detour Destinations in the UK
Here’s a list of some detour destinations in the UK that offer the perfect balance of serenity, culture, and natural beauty.
1. Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
Nestled in the Pennine hills, Hebden Bridge offers charming streets, independent shops, and a lively arts scene. Known as the “coolest place to live” in recent travel news, this Yorkshire town has a unique vibe with a local community feel that draws travellers seeking an alternative city break. Hebden Bridge is ideal for quiet riverside walks and independent galleries.
See More of Yorkshire
Embarking on a tour with Viator promises an enriching and hassle-free experience that’s hard to beat. You’re not just booking a tour; it’s an expertly crafted itinerary curated by locals and seasoned travellers, ensuring you uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions. From walking tours to culinary adventures and everything in between, Viator offers an extensive range of options tailored to diverse interests and budgets.
2. Anglesey, North Wales
Anglesey is a must for a coastal escape brimming with beauty. From scenic coastal paths to lesser-known beaches like Llanddwyn Island, it’s perfect for travellers in search of tranquil waters and gorgeous landscapes without the crowds. North Wales is also a star spot for water sports enthusiasts, offering kayaking, windsurfing, and other adventures.
National Trust Holidays
National Trust Holidays offers a selection of holiday cottages, campsites and bunkhouses set in spectacular locations. They have everything you need for a night away, from kitchen facilities to cosy gardens to relax in during warmer weather.
Or, get 35% off when booking 10 nights or more in Cornwall, Devon, Wales and Northern Ireland. Bookings are for stays between 1 October and 30 November 2024 and 1 January to 28 February 2025. Use discount code 10NAF.
3. Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland
This Scottish gem is ideal for nature lovers, with stunning coastlines, lush woodlands, and charming villages. Dumfries and Galloway is known for its tranquillity, and it’s less frequented than more famous destinations like Edinburgh or Glasgow, making it an excellent detour destination for those seeking peace and quiet.
Best Western Hotels
Best Western has over 250 hotels throughout the UK, each with its own charm, character and personality – including the Best Western Station Hotel in Dumfries. There are so many choices, from being by the coast to a rural retreat or a city break. Many of them have free parking and free WiFi, and you can even take your pet for a small additional fee.
4. Margate, Kent
Margate may not be a secret, but it’s an excellent detour from London’s more crowded beach towns. It has a thriving art scene and a fascinating blend of vintage shops, quirky cafes, and sandy beaches. A city break here combines a bit of history with the sea, allowing visitors to experience Margate’s bohemian vibe and storied seaside charm.
Eat Out and Save Money
We all need to refuel and rehydrate. If you love food and drink, do you have a Tastecard? You get 25% off the food bill or two meals for the price of one. There are over six thousand participating restaurants across the UK. Get a 60-day free trial here:
5. The Black Mountains, Brecon Beacons, South Wales
This less-visited part of Wales is a beautiful detour from the busier peaks of Snowdonia. The Black Mountains feature rolling hills, hidden valleys, and charming villages such as Hay-on-Wye, known for its bookstores and literary festivals. Perfect for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, it offers ample opportunities to escape the rush of modern life and immerse in nature.
Skyes Holiday Cottages
The award-winning business has cottages across the UK and Ireland. From cosy lodges with traditional woodburning stoves to contemporary accommodation with a hot tub. With all the amenities you could need, including parking, WiFi and many dog-friendly places, check out Sykes Holiday Cottages.
6. Isle of Skye, Scotland
While Scotland is home to many popular tourist areas, the Isle of Skye’s quieter villages, hidden waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs are a detour worth taking. Beyond the more frequented spots, places like Elgol and the Quiraing show Skye’s untouched beauty, making for an unforgettable holiday with extraordinary landscapes over crystal-clear waters.
Unique Activities
Are you looking for exciting and unique activities? Whether you’re a wine or local cuisine lover, a fan of unusual guided tours, or an adventure seeker looking for thrills, the list of activities on Tiqets is designed to meet all desires whilst travelling.
Tiqets Discount Code
Get 5% off activities this summer by using the Tiqets Promo Code SUMMER25. It’s valid until 31 August 2025.
7. Norfolk Coast, England
Known for its wide, sweeping beaches and historic villages, the Norfolk Coast offers a peaceful and scenic destination. It’s a brilliant alternative for those looking to avoid the more crowded beaches further south. Norfolk has star quality for its quaint towns like Cromer and Wells-next-the-Sea, making it a go-to for slow-paced city breaks and countryside escapes.
Travel by Train
Travelling to the Norfolk train with Trainline is a breeze, letting you skip the hassle of driving and fully relax from the start. With scenic views and frequent connections, you’ll arrive in Norwich ready to explore the waterways, peaceful villages, and stunning landscapes.
8. Northumberland, England
This county near the Scottish border has vast open spaces, castles, and one of the UK’s most stunning coastlines. A detour to Northumberland means experiencing history, beauty, and quiet in one package. Hadrian’s Wall and unspoilt beaches make it ideal for anyone keen to explore ancient history without the usual rush.
Walk-Inn Breaks with The Inn Collection
The two-night bed and breakfast break includes dinner on the first night and a complimentary walking pack. It has a range of classic walks at various lengths and for different abilities. Plus, dogs stay free. Inn Collection is in Yorkshire, Northumberland, County Durham, Tyne and Wear, the Lake District, Lancashire and North Wales.
9. Pembrokeshire Coast, West Wales
The Pembrokeshire Coast is an incredible choice for a detour destination, combining rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and quaint coastal villages. With its stunning landscapes and less-crowded spaces, Pembrokeshire offers a peaceful retreat where you can explore iconic spots like St. David’s, the UK’s smallest city, and its magnificent cathedral.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path reveals breathtaking views, perfect for travellers looking to immerse themselves in natural beauty away from the busier spots over in the more popular areas of Wales.
Breaks in West Wales
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book in advance and as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets, from hotels to valley holiday parks. Find great places to stay on booking.com:
10. Dartmoor, Devon
For those craving dramatic moorland and a touch of mystery, Dartmoor is a wonderful detour. Known for its wild beauty, it’s a fantastic option for anyone wanting to wander among ancient stone circles, climb tors, or spot the famous Dartmoor ponies. Dartmoor’s charming villages, like Widecombe-in-the-Moor, and hidden nooks like Wistman’s Wood are enchanting experiences, giving travellers a unique holiday away from the tourist hubs of Devon.
Devon Hampers
Food, drink, and the West Country are close to my heart. Devon Hampers sends the best of the South West to your front door. The cream tea and afternoon tea hampers include scones, clotted cream, and jam. There are also cheese hampers, chocolate, cider, and BBQ hampers.
Get 10% off hampers or create your own. Order anything from a clotted cream tea for two or a large hamper full of goodies. Use DEVON10 at the checkout on orders over £50.
Why Detour Destinations Are the Future of Travel
As the demand for unique travel experiences grows, detour destinations are becoming increasingly attractive to travellers. With global travel trends shifting, these spots offer a balance of relaxation, authenticity, and memorable landscapes that traditional holiday locations often lack.
For travellers looking to see the world in a new way, these destinations offer a different perspective, showcasing the UK as a place full of lesser-known treasures and hidden beauty. Incorporating detour destinations into your travel plans is a chance to break from the ordinary and delve deeper into the UK’s hidden gems.
So, on your next trip, why not detour and discover the star quality in the less travelled places? After all, the best city breaks often lie just a little off the beaten path.
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