In our fast-paced and hectic lives, sometimes we just need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. And what better way to do that than to escape to a secluded spot in the beautiful countryside of southern England? With its rolling hills, picturesque villages, and stunning coastline, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These secluded spots offer peace, tranquility, and a chance to get away from it all. So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and let’s take a journey to 6 secluded spots in southern England that will transport you to another world.
1. The Cotswolds: An Idyllic Countryside Escape
Nestled in the heart of England, the Cotswolds is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This stunning region covers six counties including Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and Warwickshire. It’s known for its rolling hills, quaint villages, and honey-colored stone cottages that make it look like a scene straight out of a fairytale.
Discovering the Hidden Villages
The Cotswolds is home to some of the most charming and picturesque villages in England. One of the best ways to explore this region is by taking a leisurely drive through these villages, stopping to explore and soak in their beauty.
Some must-visit villages in the Cotswolds include Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Castle Combe. Bourton-on-the-Water is often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” due to its series of small bridges over the River Windrush. Bibury is famous for its row of 17th-century stone cottages known as Arlington Row, which has been featured in many postcards and travel magazines. And Castle Combe is often described as one of the prettiest villages in England with its winding streets, historic buildings, and peaceful setting.
Apart from these popular villages, there are also many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Some examples include the village of Painswick, known for its impressive church with a yew tree-filled churchyard, and the village of Broadway, which is dotted with independent shops, cafes, and galleries.
Immersing Yourself in Nature
Apart from its charming villages, the Cotswolds is also home to stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. The Cotswold Way National Trail offers over 100 miles of walking paths, showcasing the best of the region’s countryside. You can also go cycling, horseback riding or even hot air ballooning to take in the breathtaking views from above.
If you’re more of a nature lover, then a visit to the Cotswolds Wildlife Park and Gardens is a must. This park is home to a wide range of animals, from giraffes and rhinos to red pandas and lemurs. It’s a great place to spend a day immersed in nature.
Indulging in Local Delights
No trip to the Cotswolds is complete without trying some of the local delicacies. The region is known for its delicious locally-produced food and drink. From traditional cream teas to hearty pub meals, there’s something for everyone here. You can also visit local farms and producers to pick up fresh produce, cheese, and baked goods. And if you’re a fan of gin, make sure to stop by the Cotswolds Distillery for a tour and a tasting session.
2. Dartmoor: A Wild and Remote Landscape
Located in the county of Devon, Dartmoor National Park is a vast and rugged landscape that covers over 368 square miles. It’s known for its wild ponies, granite tors, and ancient ruins, making it a favorite among hikers, nature lovers, and history buffs.
Exploring the Tors
One of the highlights of Dartmoor is its granite tors, which are rocky outcrops that dot the landscape. These tors were formed by weathering over millions of years and are a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing. Some of the most popular tors include Haytor, Hound Tor, and Great Staple Tor.
Apart from their natural beauty, many of these tors also have fascinating legends and stories attached to them. For example, it’s believed that Jay’s Grave on Dartmoor is the burial site of a young girl who died of a broken heart, while Bowerman’s Nose is said to be the petrified remains of a hunter who was turned into stone by a witch.
Discovering the Historic Sites
Dartmoor is also home to a wealth of historic sites dating back to the Neolithic period. One of the most well-known is Grimspound, an ancient village that consists of 24 hut circles surrounded by a low stone wall. Other interesting sites include the Merrivale Stone Rows, a Bronze Age ceremonial complex, and the Dartmoor Longhouses, which are traditional houses made of granite and thatched roofs.
If you’re a fan of spooky tales, then make sure to visit the notorious Dartmoor Prison. This former prison is said to be haunted by the ghosts of former inmates, making it a popular spot for ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts.
Experiencing the Wildlife
Dartmoor is also home to a variety of wildlife, including ponies, sheep, and birds of prey. These animals can often be seen grazing on the moorland and add to the unique charm of this remote landscape. To get a closer look at the wildlife, you can join a guided wildlife tour or simply go for a walk along one of the many nature trails in the park.
3. New Forest: A Magical Woodland Escape
Located in the county of Hampshire, the New Forest is a magical woodland that covers over 220 square miles. It’s home to ancient woodlands, heathland, and a stunning coastline, making it a diverse and enchanting destination.
Walking Among Ancient Trees
The New Forest has been designated as a National Park since the early 2000s, but its history dates back much further. The forest was created as a royal hunting ground by William the Conqueror in 1079, and many of the ancient trees you see today are over 500 years old.
One of the best ways to explore the New Forest is by taking a walk through its ancient woodlands. There are a variety of walking trails available, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. You can also join a guided walk to learn more about the history and wildlife of the forest.
Discovering Hidden Villages
Apart from its natural beauty, the New Forest is also home to some charming villages that offer a glimpse into traditional English life. Some popular villages to visit include Beaulieu, Lyndhurst, and Brockenhurst. Beaulieu is famous for its 13th-century abbey and motor museum, while Lyndhurst is known as the “capital” of the New Forest and has several quaint shops and cafes. And Brockenhurst is a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts, with its resident herd of wild ponies.
Apart from these popular villages, there are also many smaller, lesser-known villages that are worth exploring. These include Burley, which is known for its witchcraft legends, and Buckler’s Hard, an 18th-century shipbuilding village that now serves as a maritime museum.
Relaxing on the Coastline
The New Forest also boasts a beautiful coastline, with beaches like Highcliffe and Milford-on-Sea offering stunning views of the Isle of Wight and the Needles. These beaches are perfect for a relaxing day out, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and even fossil hunting.
4. Norfolk Broads: A Serene Waterway Experience
Located in the county of Norfolk, the Norfolk Broads is a network of rivers, lakes, and canals that spans over 300 square kilometers. It’s known as Britain’s largest protected wetland and is home to an abundance of wildlife and picturesque villages.
Cruising Along the Broads
The best way to experience the Norfolk Broads is by hiring a boat and cruising along its waterways. There are a variety of boats available, from traditional sailing yachts to modern motor cruisers. You can also join a guided tour or hire a skipper if you’re not comfortable navigating the waters yourself.
As you cruise along, you’ll pass through charming villages like Wroxham, Horning, and Acle. You’ll also have the opportunity to spot a variety of birdlife, including herons, kingfishers, and marsh harriers.
Exploring the Villages on Foot
Apart from cruising, there are also plenty of opportunities for walking and cycling around the Norfolk Broads. The Wherryman’s Way is a 35-mile long-distance trail that runs alongside the river Yare, while the Bure Valley Path follows the River Bure through the heart of the Broads.
Along these walking trails, you’ll come across several charming villages and market towns, each with its own unique character. Some popular ones to visit include Ranworth, known for its beautiful church with a rood screen depicting biblical scenes, and How Hill, where you can visit the Toad Hole Cottage Museum to learn about the history of the Broads.
Indulging in Local Delicacies
A visit to the Norfolk Broads wouldn’t be complete without trying some of the local delicacies. The region is known for its fresh seafood, particularly Cromer crab and shrimp. It’s also famous for its locally-grown strawberries, which are available in abundance during the summer months.
5. Jurassic Coast: A Journey Through Time
Stretching along the Dorset and East Devon coastline, the Jurassic Coast is a 95-mile long UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s known for its stunning cliffs, fossils, and incredible geological formations that tell the story of Earth’s history over the past 185 million years.
Exploring the Fossil Beaches
One of the highlights of the Jurassic Coast is its fossil beaches, where you can find evidence of ancient marine life embedded in the rocks. The most popular spot for fossil hunting is Charmouth Beach, where guided tours and fossil walks are available. You can also visit the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre to learn more about the geology of the area and how to safely hunt for fossils.
Other must-visit beaches include Lyme Regis, where you can see the iconic Ammonite Pavement, and Kimmeridge Bay, which is famous for its shale cliffs and rock pools teeming with marine life.
Witnessing Spectacular Views
Apart from its fossil beaches, the Jurassic Coast also offers stunning views of the sea, cliffs, and countryside. One of the best ways to take in these views is by walking along the South West Coast Path, which runs parallel to the coast for most of its length.
Some unmissable viewpoints along the path include the Durdle Door arch, Old Harry Rocks, and Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast of England. You can also join a sightseeing boat tour from the towns of Weymouth or Swanage to get a different perspective of the coastline.
Visiting Historic Sites
The Jurassic Coast is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its rich history. There are several historic sites to visit along the coast, including the swannery at Abbotsbury, which has been in operation since the 14th century, and Corfe Castle, a medieval fortress that was partially destroyed during the English Civil War.
Another must-visit site is the village of Beer, which is home to an underground network of smugglers’ caves. You can take a guided tour of these caves to learn about their dark history and the role they played in smuggling activities.
6. The Isle of Wight: A Charming Island Getaway
Located just off the south coast of England, the Isle of Wight is a charming island that boasts stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and a variety of outdoor activities. It’s known as the “Garden Isle” due to its mild climate, which allows for a wide range of flora and fauna to thrive.
Relaxing on the Beaches
The Isle of Wight has over 60 miles of coastline, with some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. From popular tourist spots like Sandown and Shanklin to secluded coves like Compton Bay and Colwell Bay, there’s a beach for every preference on the island.
One beach that shouldn’t be missed is the Alum Bay beach, famous for its multi-colored sand cliffs and views of the iconic Needles rocks. You can take a chairlift down to the beach or join a boat tour from Yarmouth to get a closer look at the Needles.
Hiking Along the Coastal Paths
The Isle of Wight is a paradise for hikers, with a network of over 500 miles of footpaths and trails to explore. The Isle of Wight Coastal Path runs around the entire island, providing stunning views of the sea and countryside as you go. Along the path, you’ll come across several points of interest, including the Culver Down Fort, an old military defense structure that now serves as a museum.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also join the Isle of Wight Walking Festival, which takes place in May and October each year. This festival offers a variety of guided walks, ranging from short strolls to more challenging hikes.
Indulging in Local Delights
The Isle of Wight is home to many local producers and food artisans, making it a great place to indulge in delicious locally-grown and produced food. Some must-try items include the island’s famous garlic, which is celebrated every year at the Garlic Festival, and its creamy blue cheese, known as “Isle of Wight Blue.”
Apart from food, the Isle of Wight is also known for its traditional seaside resorts like Shanklin and Ventnor, where you can enjoy fish and chips on the beach or take a leisurely stroll along the promenade.
Conclusion: A Journey to Another World
Southern England may be small in size, but it’s definitely not lacking in secluded spots that offer a chance to escape from the chaos of everyday life. From the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the rugged cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, there’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered around every corner. So next time you need a break, pack your bags and head to one of these 6 secluded spots in southern England, and let yourself be transported to another world.