British staycations continue to soar in popularity, with 78 per cent of UK adults planning to take at least one overnight domestic trip over the next 12 months, according to new research.
To help holidaymakers venture beyond Britain’s busiest tourist hotspots, experts named spectacular places that remain largely undiscovered online despite their stunning scenery.
Car rental experts at SIXT analysed hidden destinations across all 108 UK counties, examining Google search volumes and social media coverage to unveil the country’s most “gatekept” destinations.
Leading the ranking is Yesnaby Sea Stacks in Orkney, Scotland, which was named the UK’s best hidden gem that virtually no one is searching for.
Hidden gems averaging no monthly Google searches
Yesnaby Sea Stacks — Orkney, ScotlandLud’s Church Chasm — Staffordshire, EnglandTrottick Mill Ponds — Dundee, ScotlandLittle Orme and Angel Bay — Conwy, WalesBraan Gorge — Perth and Kinross, ScotlandWorld’s End Valley — Wrexham, WalesWadenhoe Circular — Northamptonshire, EnglandHanningfield Reservoir Nature Reserve — Essex, EnglandGilmour’s Linn and Charlie’s Cave — Stirling, Scotland
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While the dramatic coastal landmark is definitely worth seeing, Yesnaby Sea Stacks records no average monthly Google searches, making it one of Britain’s best-kept secrets.
Situated on Orkney’s rugged west coast, Yesnaby Sea Stacks is known for its towering sandstone pillars, sheer cliffs and sweeping Atlantic Ocean views.
Visitors can enjoy spectacular coastal walks, spot seabirds and experience some of Scotland’s wildest landscapes, all without the crowds found at many of the country’s better-known beauty spots.
Second on the list is Lud’s Church Chasm in Staffordshire, an atmospheric moss-covered gorge hidden within the Peak District. The deep natural chasm, with its towering rock walls and lush greenery, has earned a reputation as one of England’s most magical walking locations and is even said to have inspired scenes in Arthurian legend.
The surrounding Peak District also offers picturesque villages, scenic hiking routes and cosy country pubs, making it an ideal weekend staycation destination.
Completing the top three is Trottick Mill Ponds near Dundee in Scotland. This peaceful nature reserve provides tranquil walking trails, freshwater ponds and plenty of wildlife to spot.
Its location also makes it easy to combine with a city break in Dundee, where visitors can explore the waterfront, museums, independent cafés and nearby coastline.
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