Hidden gems

With a little inside knowledge you can beat the crowds and discover the very best of the UK. Here’s our pick of its secret treasures

Discover the UK’s secret treasures

1 Seaside dining

Make your way to CrabShack (crabshackworthing.co.uk) in wonderful Worthing, for beachside dining that’s worth a trip to the south coast in itself. A large terrace overlooks the sea, and customers can enjoy delicious plates of the freshest fish out on the deck, or inside if the weather turns cooler. Menu favourites include a pint of Atlantic prawns, Sicilian-inspired fish stew and spicy pil pil prawn and chorizo.

Where to stay Northbrook Farm Caravan and Motorhome Club Site www.caravanclub.co.uk

2 Surf’s up

Northern Ireland’s beaches are second to none, nowhere more so than the seven miles of golden sand at Benone Strand, a European Blue Flag beach offering some wonderful views across to Donegal.

The sands are gorgeous for a stroll, but if you’re looking for a shot of adrenaline, head for the Longline Surf School (longlinesurfschool.co.uk), where you can enjoy expert tuition in surfing and stand up paddleboarding. Don’t forget to pack your wetsuit!

Where to stay Golden Sands Caravan Park facebook.com/goldensandsbenone

Falling 3 for the Pennines

Wain Wath Force, near Keld, is popular with wild swimmers, who simply can’t get enough of this wonderful waterfall on the River Swale, in the gorgeous Yorkshire Dales National Park. It only has a short drop, but is beautifully scenic. Pack a picnic and your camera. Swimmers should take local advice, particularly after heavy rain.

Where to stay Pennine View Park www.pennineviewpark.co.uk

4 A taste of Sussex

South-east England’s reputation for quality winemaking is now well established, with vineyards across Kent, Sussex and Surrey rivalling those of Champagne.

The award-winning Ridgeview (ridgeview.co.uk), near Ditchling, at the foot of the beautiful South Downs, is one such winery, where you can discover more with tours and tastings. This is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of excellent fizz in splendid countryside.

Where to stay Southdown Way Caravan & Camping www.southdown-caravancamping.org.uk

5 Forest retreat

There’s no doubting the restorative power of nature, but if forest bathing seems a bit tame, why not visit Beechenhurst, in the Forest of Dean? This activity hub is suitable for all the family and offers everything from archery to walking and cycling trails.

Run by Forestry England (www.forestryengland.uk/ beechenhurst), the centre is also a Go Ape venue, with a zipline, Segway trails and a 12m-high climbing tower.

Where to stay Greenacres Campsite www.greenacrescampsite.co.uk/camping