Travel Influencer Highlights Overrated UK Tourist Spots and Quieter Alternatives
You don't need to journey to exotic foreign locations to witness breathtaking sights, as the United Kingdom boasts an abundance of stunning destinations right on its doorstep. However, one prominent travel influencer has sparked debate by asserting that some of the UK's most famous tourist attractions might not live up to their hype. Instead, she recommends lesser-known alternatives that offer comparable beauty without the crowds.
Apryl's Critical Perspective on Popular UK Destinations
Apryl, who hails from Manchester and has amassed 42,500 followers on Instagram under the handle aprylwanders, recently shared her unconventional views on three iconic UK locations. In a detailed post, she explained that based on her personal experiences, she would not revisit these spots and proposed better options for travellers. "Unpopular opinion… some of England’s most famous spots aren’t actually the best ones," she wrote. "These are just based on my experience, and what I’d do differently if I planned my trip again." She emphasised that England is filled with beautiful places, but quieter alternatives often exist.
Stonehenge Versus Avebury: A Prehistoric Swap
The first destination Apryl advises skipping is Stonehenge, the prehistoric megalithic structure on Salisbury Plain that attracts over one million visitors annually. She described it as "iconic, but disappointing in person," noting that visitors cannot get close, tours and tickets are expensive, and crowds are always present. Instead, she recommends travelling just 25 miles north to Avebury, home to the world's largest stone circle. Apryl highlighted that Avebury is older than Stonehenge, allows visitors to walk among the stones, is free to visit, and lacks the overwhelming crowds.
Bourton-on-the-Water Versus the Slaughters: A Cotswolds Alternative
Apryl's second suggested avoidance is the Cotswolds village of Bourton-on-the-Water, renowned for its chocolate-box architecture and picturesque Gloucestershire surroundings. She called it "charming, but can feel overcrowded," labelling it the busiest spot in the Cotswolds, very touristy, and difficult to enjoy at a leisurely pace. As an alternative, she proposes visiting the nearby villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter, which she described as quieter, just as scenic, and ideal for a relaxing walk.
Seven Sisters Cliffs Versus Birling Gap: A Coastal Recommendation
The third location Apryl suggests bypassing, particularly in spring, is the Seven Sisters and Beach Head cliffs in East Sussex, part of the iconic White Cliffs of Dover. She warned that these cliffs involve longer hikes than many expect, are very weather-dependent, and not the easiest to access. Instead, she advises sightseers to head slightly up the coast to Birling Gap, which offers views of the same cliffs, easier access, no hiking requirement, and is just as stunning. She clarified that she would still recommend the Seven Sisters lighthouse walk in calmer weather conditions.
Mixed Reactions from the Public
Responses to Apryl's recommendations varied widely in the comments section. One individual defended Stonehenge, stating, "I thought Stonehenge was super cool!! Yes it’s crowded and you can’t walk up to them normally, but I thought the audio guide was really interesting and the museum and all the information was really cool, so I loved it!" Another shared a different approach to the Seven Sisters, saying, "I did Seven Sisters both ways! Parked at Birling Gap and then walked to the lighthouse along the cliffs and loved it! I thought that’s what you were meant to do to reach it??" A third commenter offered a seasonal solution, suggesting, "I suggest you don’t skip these spots. Just go off season. We had Bourton on the water to ourselves in December."
This discussion underscores the ongoing debate in travel circles about balancing popularity with authenticity, as influencers like Apryl encourage exploring beyond the well-trodden paths to discover hidden gems across the UK.
