The British countryside is a much-romanticised treasure trove of stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and timeless, rustic charm. Escaping to the country is a great British pastime providing a respite from city life, whether one looks for adventure or relaxation from everyday life.
The UK is filled with limitless options for countryside getaways – from the Cotswolds' rolling hills to the Norfolk Broads' serene waterways – some of which we uncover below, as the finest destinations to escape to.
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is one of the most well-known and beloved countryside destinations in the UK. Whilst the region's name allegedly means “sheep enclosure in rolling hills sides”, what it’s most celebrated for is beautiful cottages nestled in charming villages, and twisting country lanes that wind through lush green hills. Stretching across Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and several other counties, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty perfectly encapsulates the charm of the British countryside.
Picturesque towns like Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” and Castle Combe, famed for its antique shops and cosy tea rooms, are hotspots for visitors all year round. History enthusiasts love to explore the incredible Blenheim Palace, the birthplace and family home of former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill.
For nature lovers, the Cotswold Way offers miles of scenic walking trails that weave through the countryside. Sudeley Castle is famous for its beautiful grounds and “secret garden”, in addition to being the only private castle in the world with a Queen of England buried in its grounds – Catherine Parr, the final wife of the notorious King Henry VIII of England.
Norfolk
For those who prefer tranquil walks along beautiful waterways, the Norfolk Broads is an ideal countryside getaway. This unique network of rivers and lakes amidst rolling countryside is perfect for boating, fishing, and wildlife spotting. Renting a traditional narrowboat is an idyllic way to explore the Broads winding waterways, with opportunities to moor up and explore the many charming villages and waterside pubs dotted throughout the area.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of wildlife the Broads’ offer, from otters to rare birds, particularly in reserves like Hickling Broad as they boat their way around the area. However, options remain for land lovers to explore the Broads on foot, with many scenic walking and cycling routes, including trails that pass through historic sites like Norwich Cathedral or the picturesque windmills that dot the landscape.
One popular attraction in the area which maintains year-round interest, is Sandringham House, which is an official Royal Residence of the King of England. It’s especially popular during the Winter as members of the British Royal Family often stay at the house over the Christmas holidays, as well as visit the local chapel in the nearby village of the same name for mass on Christmas Day.
Yorkshire
Yorkshire is one of the UK’s most stunning counties. The Yorkshire Wolds offers gentle, rolling hills, patchwork fields, and picturesque villages, which inspired the works of famous English artist, David Hockney. By contrast, the brown, rocky valleys of the Yorkshire Moors are moody and carry an intense natural beauty which is very unlike other parts of the UK.
The Wolds Way, a scenic walking trail, takes visitors through some of the region’s most enchanting landscapes. There are many hidden gems and secret trails to find rambling around the Dales. Bolton Abbey is the gateway to a stunning valley walk that follows the River Wharfe up to a churning cross-section of fast, deep river rapids known as “The Strid”.
There are many incredible towns and villages to visit throughout the county. The historic town of Malton, known as Yorkshire’s food capital, is a must-visit for its artisan producers and bustling food markets. Harrogate is famous for its Spas, Knarsborough has a beautiful viaduct and scenic river walks, whilst the city of York, is not one to miss with its medieval market squares and Viking heritage.
Sussex
Sussex, famous for it’s chalk-white cliffs rolling hills, and fantastic vineyards, offers a delightful blend of rural and coastal charm. The South Downs National Park stretches across the region, providing stunning landscapes and endless opportunities for walking, cycling, and chances to visit a few of those vineyards. The Cuckmere Valley brings walkers to the majestic Seven Sisters cliffs, giving breathtaking views to a day’s exploration.
There are many quaint villages like Alfriston to explore that captivate visitors with their thatched cottages and warm and welcoming pubs. Historic landmarks such as Arundel Castle, Petworth House, and the Cowdray Estate are must-visits both for their local significance and fantastic local walks.
Food lovers will appreciate the abundance of farm shops and artisanal producers, while vineyards such as NyeTimber, Wiston, and Albourne showcase Sussex’s growing reputation for exceptional English sparkling wine, and are easily reached on foot via the South Downs.
Pembrokeshire
Placed on the south coast of Wales, Pembrokeshire offers a stunning blend of countryside and coastal charm. This region is renowned for walks along dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and through tranquil farmland. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a fantastic starting point for adventure. But for those looking to discover more of the countryside, there are hidden gems such as the Gwaun Valley, a serene wooded area that feels untouched by time.
Coastal towns like Tenby and Saundersfoot have bright, colourful harbours and a welcoming atmosphere, which make them perfect places to rest at the end of a long day's walk. The area has a fascinating history, with many notable shipwrecks along the Pembroke Coast, including a wrecked Viking longboat off the coast of The Smalls.
The region is also a haven for wildlife lovers, offering boat trips to nearby islands like Skomer and Ramsey, where visitors can spot puffins, seals, and dolphins. If travellers journey to the Preseli Mountains to the North of Pembrokeshire, they can find the same bluestones used to build England's most famous Stone Age landmark, Stone Henge, along with stunning views of the coastline and moors.
The Scottish Borders
The Scottish Borders, located just south of Edinburgh, is an outstanding countryside region filled with lush valleys, gentle hills, and historic charm. This area is perfect for those seeking a quieter countryside getaway with a touch of history and culture. Nature lovers can enjoy the rolling landscapes of the Eildon Hills or riverside walks along the Tweed, one of Scotland’s most famous fishing salmon spots.
The Borders’ many small towns and villages, such as Melrose, Kelso, and Peebles, are steeped in heritage and feature medieval abbeys, charming independent shops, and cosy inns serving up Scottish staples. For a touch of history, visit Abbotsford, the former home of Sir Walter Scott, or explore the ruins of the iconic Borders Abbeys.
The region is also known for its textile heritage, with mills in places like Hawick offering high-quality tweeds and cashmere that have been at work for centuries. With its mix of scenic beauty and cultural riches, the Scottish Borders provides an enchanting countryside escape.
The UK offers a wealth of countryside getaways. Steeped in history, charm, and natural beauty, these destinations provide the perfect setting for either relaxation or exploration. Whether you’re wandering through a medieval village, cycling along serene waterways, or savouring local delicacies in a traditional pub, the British countryside is the ultimate escape, where time seems to have stopped in its tracks.
