The UK's Best Kept Secrets: 6 Hidden-Gems You Must See

London has plenty of must-see sights and instantly recognisable landmarks, but sometimes it's nice to get off the beaten path and explore places less well-known. Whether you're after seaside escapes, historic monuments or cultural excursions, the UK has an abundance of hidden gems. And the best part is you don't have to travel too far to enjoy them.

Hire a car from any of our UK locations and explore these best-kept secrets for yourself!

1. Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, Cornwall

One look at this spectacular open-air theatre and it’s easy to understand why it’s on our list. Carved into the granite cliffs and set in glorious gardens overlooking Porthcurno Bay, it’s easy to see why this theatre is so unique. Minack Theatre welcomes more than 80,000 people to watch musicals, concerts and plays in the summer season as well as those who just want to take a glimpse at the beautiful coastline and architecture all year round

2. John O’Groats, Scotland

This small Scottish village in the highlands is famous for being Britain’s most north-eastern point. Take a break from your Scottish road trip and jump out of the car for a walk up to Duncansby Head to view the Stacks of Duncansby rising up from the ocean floor, standing like sentinels guarding the land.

3. Blackpool Sands, South Hams, Devon

There are much more well-known spots around Devon, however, Blackpool Sands beach is a must-visit. Family-friendly and with fewer crowds, this sheltered bay sits among evergreen and pine trees. On a clear, sunny day you can easily mistake this for a Mediterranean hot spot! Better yet, hire the sporty Jaguar F-Type Coupe and head to the beach in style.

4. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Neasden 

Popularly known as the ‘Neasden Temple’ it is a sanctuary of vibrant Hindu worship. Each piece of the temple was hand-crafted in India before being transported and assembled in England. Take a moment from a hectic travel schedule and find peace among the intricately carved marble. 

5. Ely Cathedral, Cambridgeshire

Jump in your hire car and head out of the city to Cambridgeshire and visit Ely Cathedral, a great day trip from London. Originally built as an abbey church in AD 672, the present building dates back to 1083. The spectacular stunning octogen-shaped ceiling brings people from far and wide – it’s truly remarkable. 

6. Cragside House, Northumberland

This fascinating Victorian country house located 2 hours south of our Edinburgh location, is full of wonder and amusement. Built in the 1880s, it is the first house to be lit by hydroelectricity, Craigside house is crammed full of ingenious gadgets. As if that wasn’t enough, the grounds will keep you and your family busy with more than 30 miles of footpaths and lakeside walks. 

Explore Hidden Gems with Avis Prestige 

The UK is a very popular tourist attraction – from the hustle and bustle of London to the charm of Edinburgh. However, most tourists and locals alike don’t realise that there are many hidden gems scattered around the UK. Hire a car from any of our UK locations and explore those on our list as well as the many villages, secret gardens, spooky pubs and more.