Discover Hidden Gems in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is GoTravelDaily’s Destination of the Year for 2023. With a nation so rich in culture and history, the possibilities for exploration are endless. This article highlights some exceptional and lesser-known destinations across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

1. ScotlandShop, Edinburgh

“Can one have too much plaid? I say, never! The beauty of the ScotlandShop is that you can order tartan pieces online to ship to the United States and visit its brick-and-mortar location in Edinburgh. Before my family’s spring trip, we researched our history (the Giffords are from the Hay clan) and ordered custom sneakers, ideal for walking the city’s cobblestoned streets. Then we visited the flagship store on Queensferry Street and picked up colorful blazers, vests, and accessories that bring out the maximalist in all of us.” — Jacqueline Gifford, Editor in Chief

2. Bridport, Dorset

“I grew up on the southern coast of England, and a few years ago my parents moved back to Bridport, Dorset, about a half-hour from my childhood home. The first time I took my (quite well-traveled) American husband to the area, I was surprised to hear him say it was one of the most beautiful places he’d ever been. However, the more I go back to visit, the more I realize what I took for granted as a kid: there are few stretches of shoreline as dramatic as the cliffs and beaches around Charmouth, Eype, and Burton Bradstock. Stay at the Seaside Boarding House for ravishing views and world-class fish and seafood. Another favorite, the Bull Inn, in Bridport, is especially cozy around the holidays.” — Flora Stubbs, Executive Editor

3. Berts Jazz Bar, Belfast, Northern Ireland

“Step back in time at the 1930s-inspired Berts Jazz Bar at the Merchant Hotel, in Belfast. The passport-themed cocktail menu is designed to transport you to the great jazz capitals of the world, like Havana, New Orleans, and Paris.” — Alessandra Amodio, Associate Digital Photo Editor

4. The Distillery, London

“Get acquainted with a quintessentially British spirit through the “Ginstitute” at the Distillery, in London’s Notting Hill. The three-hour experience dives into the history of gin — you’re served cocktails that evoke various eras, starting with the 17th century — and culminates with a lesson inside the production facility, where you’ll sample different botanicals and bottle a custom blend to take home.” — Hannah Walhout, Senior Editor

5. Beale’s, Porthcawl, Wales

“Nothing beats the crispy batter on a piece of flaky white fish, served with a heap of perfectly salted chips, at Beale’s in the Welsh seaside town of Porthcawl. Get a takeaway box and enjoy it while you sit and watch surfers brave the Bristol Channel’s icy waves.” — Nina Ruggiero, Digital Editorial Director

6. The Prince’s Head Pub, Richmond

“TV bingers will recognize the Prince’s Head, in the mellowed enclave of Richmond, as the pub on Ted Lasso. It’s a great place to people-watch and have yet another pint.” — Tim Latterner, Senior Editor