UK's best 'hidden gem' for a road trip with 'white sand' and seal spotting
Get the car and the kids ready as these are the best road trip destinations to visit this summer.
The school summer holidays are soon approaching but do you plan to go away this year with the kids?
Well, if you're looking for some inspiration then why not look for somewhere closer to home?
As many popular road trip destinations continue to be overrun with tourists why not go for a hidden spot that many people are unaware of?
Now, research from those at Hippo Leasing has named the top 10 hidden spots in the UK for a road trip destination.
The team analysed hashtag data on Instagram and TikTok for 173 road trip destinations in the UK by focusing on the number of posts. They then identified the least documented yet most picturesque spots that offer a tranquil experience.
Here are the top 10 hidden gem road trip destinations in the UK, according to Hippo Leasing.
10. East Gill Force, Yorkshire Dales, England
East Gill Force, with 346 posts, is nestled in a secluded location amongst the stunning landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It is the seventh waterfall to make it into the top 10. East Gill Force is one of four waterfalls in the Keld area and forms part of the Coast to Coast walk intersect. To access East Gill Force, park in the village and enjoy the short, scenic walk to this secluded waterfall.
(Image: Getty)9. Ritson’s Force - Lake District
Ritson’s Force in the Lake District claims the ninth spot as a hidden gem UK road trip destination, with 299 posts across Instagram and TikTok. This incredible turquoise waterfall which flows into a series of swimming holes, is located next to the village of Wasdale Head. Ideal for wild swimming in summer, it’s best accessed by parking in the village and walking to the site.
(Image: Getty)8. Pollnagollum Cave - Enniskillen, Northern Ireland
Any Game of Thrones fans here? You’ll probably have heard of this one. Famous among fans of the show, Pollnagollum Cave is used as the hideout of the Brotherhood Without Banners and has 274 combined posts. In the area, Irish hare can be found! Larger than rabbits, adult hares have black tips on their ears and their long legs give them a recognisable lope. If the time of year is right, keep an eye out for bats and birds around the cave entrance.
(Image: Getty)7. Rhaeadr Dyserth, Dyserth, North Wales
Rhaeadr Dyserth, the only Welsh spot in the top 10, boasts 246 posts. This 70-foot waterfall, formed by the River Ffyddion, is surrounded by caves and woodland trails.
In the 1880s, mining in the area caused the waterfall to dry up, however, when the mining stopped, the waterfall resumed its full flow for visitors to enjoy once more. For those interested, the caves still remain from the mining days and are also accessible. So, bring a torch and go exploring! There is free parking available at the waterfall and a suggested donation of just 50p.
(Image: Getty)6. Rutter Force - Lake District, England
Rutter Force, with 226 combined posts, is a 30-foot waterfall nestled beneath the North Pennine hills, away from the busier areas of the Lake District located near Appleby-in-Westermorland.
Rutter Force is located next to a picturesque old mill that was once used to grind corn. From 1926 to 1052, the mill was the only source of electricity for the village! For the hikers here, this is an easy, low-level walk. For those wanting to drive the full way, there is a small parking area nearby but it only accommodates around three to four cars, so ensure you get there early to secure your spot!
(Image: Getty)