The 7 Most Hard-To-Reach Destinations In The UK  

Finding an untouched place — a hidden gem, if you will — can be challenging, especially if you are looking for holiday destinations that are not hotspots for tourists. It begs the question, where do you begin to search for these untouched places? Well, you are in luck because we have compiled a list of hard-to-reach places across the UK.  

Sandwood Bay, Scotland

Sandwood Bay is nestled along the Scottish coastline and is located in such a remote area that many of its visitors choose to fly there via private jet charter, further adding to the area’s allure. Located northwest of the Scottish Highlands, its main attraction is its beach, which is largely untouched by locals and tourists alike. The beach is known as one of the UK’s most unspoiled beaches. The bay has no road access; however, you can access it on foot. Fun fact: The bay is part of the Sandwood Estate, which is run by the John Muir Trust.  

Sgwd Yr Eira, Wales

If you are after stunning waterfall views, this is the place for you. The Sgwd Yr Eira waterfall, located in Brecon Beacons National Park in South Wales, is a hidden gem you have to see. Sgwd Yr Eira, which translates to the “waterfall of snow”, refers to the waterfall’s spray, which resembles snow falling. Now, there is something truly unique about this place. When you walk behind the curtain of water that falls from the cliff above, you see the waterfall from a magnificent perspective. You can only access the waterfall by foot, so prepare yourself for some hiking. But trust us, it is worth it.  

St. Agnes, Isles of Scilly

This is the most south-westerly island in all of the UK. It has been described as a place where people feel right at home, which is wonderful. However, it is good to note that St. Agnes is also one of the most beautiful places in the United Kingdom. One of the prominent features of St Agnes is that it is connected to another island called Gugh — you can quite literally walk across the sand to access either island. But that’s not all — the water closest to the shore is a dreamlike experience, with boulders and touches of turquoise. And there is a cove, too! Recently, The Guardian listed St. Agnes as one of the most tranquil places to visit in the UK.

The Lost Village of Imber, England

How do you visit a place with no postcode and mobile reception? Well, go anyway because it is fun and a great time to have a technology break. But once you enter The Lost Village of Imber, you will be transported back to simpler times, featuring the old-fashioned red double-decker buses. This so-called ghost time is green, remote, and lost. But it is here where its appeal lies. There will be no other people, meaning you can explore without a care in the world.  

Orford Ness, England

Dubbed “Suffolk’s top-secret nature reserve” or Britain’s Area 51, Orford Ness is an icon everyone wants to visit. And it is largely inaccessible for most people. And soon, this is going to change with the introduction of a new ferry. Orford Ness was a military site for most parts of the 20th Century, which is why it has been kept away from the public for many decades. This was not necessarily because people could not visit it; instead, it was hard to get there. Ten out of ten would recommend it.  

Herm Island, Channel Islands

Herm Island is known for its enchanting and magical flair. If you ever want to visit Herm Island, keep in mind that it is only accessible by boat — and that’s what makes it so cool! Here, you will find beautiful beaches, vast commons, and much history. And since you are looking for a hard-to-reach place, Herm Island’s official website states that there are no cars, no crowds, and no stress. Meaning you are in for a relaxed, crowd-free experience.  

Applecross Peninsula, Scotland

Remote, isolated, and out of reach — these all come to mind when we think about the Applecross Peninsula. And if you are after wilderness and off-the-grid adventure, well, then this is it. So, what makes Applecross Peninsula exciting? The NC500 driving route and the hiking paths along the way.

Additionally, there are many beaches, including Applecross Beach, known for its pebbles that stretch six kilometres along the coast. And so much more. Fun fact: Until the 1970s, the only way to access the peninsula was via the famed single-track road, the Bealach na Bà mountain pass. While still remote today, you can access it via two routes: Applecross Pass and Shieldaig.

Wrap-Up

The United Kingdom is a melting pot of places that are hard to find, hard to reach, and sometimes hard to locate on a map. However, these remote places offer so much in terms of history, iconic sites, and scenery. If you want unspoiled beaches, Sandwood Bay is for you. Looking for a waterfall escape? Then head to Sgqa Yr Eira. Need to pick me up but without the people? Then head to St Agnes. Want to explore a forgotten town? Then The Lost Village of Imber will interest you. A top-secret location awaits you at Orford Ness. And Herm Island has no cars, while Applecross is as remote as they come. There are so many hidden gems waiting for you to discover them.