There are some truly breathtaking destinations scattered across the United Kingdom that can easily be mistaken for far-flung international locales. From natural wonders to vibrant urban centres, these spots offer a passport-free journey to the likes of Italy, France, New Zealand, and Japan.
12 beautiful places in the UK that leave you feeling like you're abroad
The UK is brimming with stunning destinations that do not require any travel documents. From picturesque towns and historical structures to vibrant hubs and natural marvels, there is a whole catalogue of locations right on our doorstep that could easily be confused with another country. Some British destinations have drawn comparisons to Italy and Switzerland, while others boast features reminiscent of Japan and China. Not to mention the breathtaking landscapes that resemble New Zealand and the islands that transport us to France without ever boarding a ferry or plane. What is more, you do not need guaranteed sunshine to enjoy these spectacular UK sights, as they are just as beautiful, come rain or shine. So if you are in need of a little UK escape or a memorable day out, these might be the perfect spots to explore.
1. Portmeirion, Gwynedd, Wales
One of the most stunning locations in Wales is Portmeirion in Gwynedd, where you will feel as though you have been whisked away to Italy. The village boasts Italianate architecture, vibrant colours that fill the streets, and quaint cobbled lanes that add an unmistakably Italian charm. Additionally, the picturesque village is just a 40-minute drive from Snowdonia, another breathtaking UK destination where you can tackle the formidable climb up Snowdon, standing at a whopping 3,560 feet. The awe-inspiring views from the summit are worth every step, or you can take it easy by catching the train to the top.
2. St. Michael's Mount, Cornwall
Cornwall has always been a hit with holidaymakers, and St. Michael's Mount brings a taste of France right to our doorstep. Much like Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy, both feature an island encircled by a tidal sea that unveils a path at low tide and a single steep hill on the island. Small boats ferry people from the mainland to the mount, or if you are fortunate enough to visit when the tide is out, you can walk the path. But be careful not to cross when the tide is coming in, or you might find yourself swimming part of the way.
3. Kyoto and Fukushima gardens, London
Nestled within Holland Park's 22-hectare gardens is a slice of traditional Japanese tranquillity, complete with serene waterfalls, calm ponds, stone lanterns, maple trees, and the occasional peacock wandering through. The gardens also feature an open-air theatre, a cafe, a restaurant, and sports facilities, serving as a vast park for locals and visitors alike. First opened in 1991, the gardens were a gift from Kyoto, Japan, symbolising and celebrating the friendship between Japan and Great Britain.
4. Cheddar Gorge, Somerset
Take a stroll around the Mendip Hills, marvel at Britain's largest limestone gorges, and delve into the Cheddar caves, and suddenly New Zealand does not seem so far away. Keep your eyes peeled for a roaming herd of wild goats, embark on lengthy walks to take in the quarry vistas, and marvel at the 450-foot cliffs during a clifftop stroll. Alternatively, amble along the base of the gorge for a leisurely walk, gazing up at the towering cliffs and soaking in the surrounding scenery. Cheddar Gorge also boasts shops where you can sample locally produced cheese, perfectly paired with a pint of local brew.
5. Royal Pavilion, Brighton
For a taste of southern Asia without the long-haul flight, look no further than the stunning Royal Pavilion in the heart of Brighton. The Pavilion, a historic landmark, began its life as an 18th-century lodging house before being transformed into an Indian-style residence for George IV, with the renovations completed in 1823. During World War I, the Pavilion served as a hospital for Indian servicemen. With its blend of Indian, Chinese, Victorian, and Mughal architectural influences, this Pavilion is as awe-inspiring as a visit to the Taj Mahal. You can admire the Pavilion from the outside or buy a ticket to explore the interior decor and furnishings, including the banqueting room, the grand kitchen, and the music room.
6. Little Venice, London
The canals, narrowboats, and bridges of West London will transport you straight to the heart of Venice or Amsterdam. Stroll along the point where the Grand Union Canal meets the Regent's Canal and discover a host of unique waterside cafes, restaurants, local pubs, and even floating businesses, including a hotel on water. Little Venice boasts its own independent theatre venues where you can enjoy a show at the Canal Cafe Theatre or a puppet performance at the Puppet Theatre Barge. You will soon forget you are in London.
7. Minack Theatre, Cornwall
This renowned open-air theatre in Cornwall is stunningly carved into the cliffs, overlooking the breathtaking Porthcurno Bay. Theatre performances run from May to September, featuring drama, musicals, and opera set against this spectacular backdrop. The theatre's architecture echoes that of the famous Theatre of Dionysus, and on a clear, sunny day with the azure sea stretching out before you, it is easy to imagine you are in Greece.
8. Isle of Skye, Scotland
The largest of the Inner Hebrides, Scotland's iconic Isle of Skye offers breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, quaint villages, and medieval castles. The Isle of Skye is famed for its Fairy Pools, crystal clear bodies of water nestled among rocks and waterfalls. In certain areas of the Isle of Skye, you can even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, a mesmerising display that lights up the sky in a kaleidoscope of colours. The breathtaking landscape will quickly whisk you away to Iceland.
9. Lynton and Lynmouth, Devon
The picturesque landscape around Lynton and Lynmouth in Devon has been given the nickname 'Little Switzerland' due to its striking resemblance to an alpine wonderland. In the early 1800s, when the Napoleonic Wars made travel to mainland Europe impossible, holidays in Little Switzerland became a hit among the British upper class. Today, visitors can wander through independent shops, meander down narrow lanes, traverse coastal paths, and explore the charming village of Lynmouth nestled at sea level. With rivers, coastal paths, lanes, hills, and beaches to discover, it is a walker's paradise.
10. Bude Sea Pool, Cornwall
Another Cornish gem that will make you feel like you have been whisked away to Sydney, Australia, is the Bude Sea Pool. Perhaps one for the warmer months, the man-made and natural element pool is situated on the beachfront at Summerleaze Beach, offering a lido experience nestled between the rocks. Refreshed by the tide daily, the pool is available for everyone to enjoy every day of the year, free of charge. It is the perfect spot to soak up the sun when visiting Cornwall.
11. Chinatown, Liverpool
Home to the oldest and largest Chinese community in the UK, Liverpool is steeped in history, and Chinatown is no exception. The traditional Chinese arch, standing at 13.5 metres high and the largest in Europe, commemorates the twinning of Liverpool and Shanghai. It was imported from Shanghai and assembled by skilled Chinese craftsmen. Throughout Chinatown, you will discover a variety of mouth-watering, authentic Chinese dishes that will leave you craving more.
12. Bath, Somerset
As the largest city in Somerset, Bath boasts the renowned Roman Baths, elegant Georgian townhouses, expansive parks, and the famous Pulteney Bridge. Spend your days ambling around the city, sampling cuisine from independent eateries or cafes, unwinding in the thermal spa baths, or hopping on an open-top bus tour.
