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Are you looking for some locations off-the-beaten path to discover England? Or maybe some cute spots in famous places that you never knew existed? You’ve come to the right place!

I’ve been living in the UK since 2016 and while I enjoy discovering all the famous landmarks, I also love finding cute and unique spots that most people don’t know about.

In this article, you will find a selection of hidden gems in England that you can see or visit. This includes some hidden spots but also more underrated or remote locations.

1. Number 10 Shambles, York

The Potions Cauldron in York

This one may surprise you since I’m sure you wouldn’t expect York to make the list.

Let me reassure you, York is not a hidden gem. It’s actually very touristy.

However, it doesn’t mean that there aren’t hidden gems in the city!

If you head to the Shambles, you will find a shop named The Potions Cauldron. You can see on the door that it’s located at number 9 3/4 (a reference to Harry Potter of course).

Hidden gems in the Shambles York

Right at the bottom on the left of the door, you can find a little fairy door and that’s the actual number 10!

It’s super cute and most people visiting the Shambles don’t notice it!

2. The Bridestones, Dalby Forest, Yorkshire

bridestones in dalby forest walk

Located in the heart of the Dalby Forest, the Bridestones are beautiful natural landmarks to visit. 

The site is managed by the National Trust and can easily be accessed on foot.

You will need to drive through Dalby (meaning you will have to pay for the toll) and can leave your car in one of the two Bridestones car parks.

From there, you can start the walk. It will take you through the woods up to the moorlands where you can see the stones.

It’s a 1.9 mile circular trail that only takes 1 to 2 hours.

3. Stiperstones, Shropshire

Stiperstones in Shropshire England

If you are looking for a hidden gem in England, at the border with Wales, the Stiperstones will be the perfect place for you!

This underrated spot has loads to offer to visitors who love hiking and discovering new landscapes.

The name Stiperstones refers to both the hill and the quartz ridge present in the area.

To get to admire it, you will need to go on the Stiperstones Circular. It’s a bit over 5 miles long and will be well worth your while.

You will go through the fields before heading up to the stones and uncovering the breath-taking views over the Welsh countryside.

Make sure to visit on a sunny day so you can fully appreciate the views.

4. Little Moreton Hall, Cheshire

Little Moreton Hall Property in Cheshire

Cheshire is one of the most beautiful counties in England. Castles, forests, historical buildings, beautiful villages… it truly has it all.

And if you want to discover a cute hidden gem in Northern England, it will be the perfect place!

Little Moreton Hall is located in Congleton. It’s a National Trust property that can be visited from Wednesday to Sunday.

It’s one of the most beautiful and unique Tudor Mansions you can see in Britain. It has wanky angles which makes it even cuter (though sometimes you seriously wonder how it works).

You can visit it inside. They even set up displays so you can see what life was like here back in the days.

You will also find a small garden outside which is very cute.

5. B29 Overexposed Crash Site, Peak District

B29 overexposed site
B29 overexposed crash site

Located near Glossop, in the Peak District, the B29 Overexposed crash site is one of the most unique hidden gems in the North of England.

It’s the crash site of an US Air Force bomber. The aircraft crashed in 1948 while trying to reach the US Army base nearby and you can still see the remains of the plane.

This is quite an emotional and sad place but it’s also very unique and definitely not something you’d expect to find.

You can hike there from Glossop. The full loop takes about 4 hours. Alternatively, you can park your vehicle in the nearby carpark and walk there. This only takes about 1 hour.

6. Lundy Island, Devon 

lundy island

Lundy Island is an interesting place to visit if you are into history. Self-proclaimed king, WWII events… there is a lot to know about this little piece of land!

The only way to get there is by ferry from Ilfracombe (which is a cute seaside town to visit in Devon).

You will find a castle and a lighthouse to explore as well as numerous walking trails and some bird watching opportunities.

7. Oasis Lyrics in Manchester

cast no shadow bridge

This one is definitely one of Manchester’s best kept secrets since most locals have no idea it exists!

If you head to New Islington Marina near Ancoats in Manchester, you’ll find a bridge between Redhill Street and the Marina.

Underneath this bridge, you can see the Oasis lyrics ‘Cast No Shadow’. If you are visiting on a sunny day, you should see the reflection in the water. Otherwise, you may have to squat a little to see underneath.

8. Carn Euny, Cornwall

Located near Penzance, Carn Euny is an ancient village dating from the Iron Age.

The site is managed by the English Heritage and is open every day as long as there is daylight.

It is free to visit for both members and non members which is always a great thing!

There is something pretty mystic about this place. You will get a feeling of mystery and desertion as you visit. It’s very unique!

This hidden gem in Cornwall is a great place to visit all year round and it’s so refreshing to find a lesser-known spot in this ever-popular part of the country.

The entrance is free and dogs are welcome. It’s also a good place to visit with children.

Map of the hidden gems in England

hidden gems in england

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