Britain’s Hidden Treasures

The summer holidays start here, and if you’re still looking for the perfect UK staycation, we’ve got you covered. Whether you fancy exploring the beautiful British countryside, visiting some of the country’s top landmarks, or escaping to the coast, here are the places that made it onto Travelodge’s list of Britain’s Hidden Treasures for summer 2022…

Durdle Door, Dorset

Described as ‘Dorset’s most photographed and iconic landmarks,’ Durdle Door is also one of the UK’s Favourite Beaches. Part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, the beauty spot is famous for its striking stone arch rock formations, which were created when the sea pierced through the Portland limestone around 10,000 years ago.

Access Durdle Door from the South West Coast Path. The beach is a mixture of pebble and shingle and is dog-friendly throughout the year. It’s a great place to take the kids for rock pooling or try your hand at coasteering. And, of course, you can’t leave without snapping an iconic photo of the rock formations. It’s a rite of passage!

Extend your visit to Durdle Door with a stroll along the coastal path to Lulworth Cove - a sheltered white pebble haven. It’s just 30 minutes from Durdle Door and the perfect spot to watch the sunset.

Where to stay in Dorset

For cheap, cheerful and convenient accommodation for your trip to Durdle Door, look no further than Travelodge Poole. The hotel is just 18 miles (about a 35-minute drive) from Durdle Door, and you can book rooms through PlansChange.

Other popular hotels in Poole:

• HolidayInn Express Poole
• Hotel Du Vin Poole
• FJB Collection - The Haven

2. Minack Theatre, Porthcurno

While you could easily mistake the Minack Theatre as Greece or somewhere equally as exotic, you’ll actually find it in Porthcurno, Cornwall. The world-famous open-air theatre is just 4-miles from Land’s End and is perched high on the rocks, offering panoramic views of Porthcurno Bay below.

What’s great about the Minack Theatre is that it has such an eclectic programme of events, with something to suit everyone. So, whether you’re into drama, musicals, opera or comedy, you’re guaranteed a good time.

Alternatively, you can book tickets for a theatre and garden visit to explore the exhibition centre and look around the subtropical gardens. Advanced booking is essential as the Minack Theatre is a popular place to visit in summer.

Make the most of your visit to the Minack Theatre with a romantic beach walk along Porthcurno Bay. Sink your toes into the soft white-shell sands and take a refreshing dip in the calm turquoise waters.

Where to stay in Cornwall

Stay nearby at the Travelodge in Hayle. Book a room with PlansChange or take a look at some of our other hotel listings in Cornwall, from the likes of:

• Union Hotel, Penzance
• The White Hart Hotel, Hayle
• Tregenna Castle Estate
• St Ives Harbour Hotel

3. Blakeney Point, Norfolk

Fancy doing a little wildlife spotting this summer? There’s no better place than Blakeney National Nature Reserve in Norfolk. Not only is it a world-renowned breeding site for sea birds, but it’s also home to England’s largest colony of Common and Grey seals that live there all year round.

The best way to get up close and personal to the wildlife on Blakeney Point is to book a trip on one of the locally operated ferry trips from Morston Quay.

Aside from the amazing wildlife, Blakeney itself is a charming coastal village with no shortage of pretty flint cottages, shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs to enjoy. 

Where to stay in Norfolk

Book a room at Travelodge Norwich Central. It’s about an hour’s drive from Blakeney Point and the ideal base for your day trip. Alternatively, check out the availability of some of our other hotels in Norfolk, including:

• Holiday Inn, Norwich City
• George Hotel, Signature Collection
• Wellington Apartments

4. St Ives, Cornwall

We all know that Cornwall is one of the most popular UK staycation destinations, but have you ever visited the dazzling jewel of St Ives? This beautiful fishing harbour and seaside town is the ultimate destination for couples, families and friends seeking a UK beach holiday. 

Whether you’re into watersports or prefer relaxing with a book in hand, you won’t be disappointed. Head to Porthmeor beach for surfing (it’s up there as one of the best surfing beaches in West Cornwall) or Porthgwidden if you prefer to be hidden away from the hustle and bustle.

With plenty of independent and well-known stores, cafes and bars to explore, there’s all sorts to keep you occupied. Plus, if you’re an art-lover, it’s well worth a trip to the seafront Tate St Ives gallery, which has rotating modern art exhibitions focusing on well-known and upcoming British artists.

Prefer the outdoors? Hop on a boat trip to Seal Island, just west of the town, to see the seal colony. Don’t forget your camera!

Where to stay near St Ives

If you’re looking for a Travelodge hotel near St Ives, the closest are Travelodge Hayle and Travelodge Camborne Redruth. Alternatively, check out these other Cornwall hotels near St Ives:

• St Ives Harbour Hotel
• Tregenna Castle Estate
• St Ives Harbour Porthminster

5. The Shambles, York

Last but certainly not least, we have The Shambles in York. It’s one of the best-preserved mediaeval streets in Europe, famed for its cobblestones and overhanging timber-framed buildings. And if The Shambles looks a little mystical to you, it’s probably because it was the inspiration behind Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley!

Back in the day, the Shambles was lined with butchers specialising in a wide range of meats. Today, it’s known for its unique independent retailers, cheerful cafes and quirky boutiques - including a couple of Harry Potter-themed stores.

Make the most of your trip to York with a visit to the castle and top attractions like Jorvik Viking Centre, York Minster and York Dungeon. It’s one of the best family-friendly city breaks in Europe, so you’re guaranteed a great time.

Where to stay in York:

There are several Travelodge hotels in York, including York Central, York Central Micklegate and York Central Layerthorpe. Other popular York hotels include:

• Park Inn by Radisson York City Centre
• The Grand York
• Hampton by Hilton York
• No.1 York

Search for ‘York’ and your selected dates on PlansChange to find discounted hotel rooms in the city.

We hope you enjoy visiting some of Britain’s hidden treasures this summer. Don’t forget to check out our resale deals for last-minute hotel rooms at next-to-nothing prices!