7 Hidden Gems To Visit In The North Of England

The North of England is full of surprises for some amazing days out. While cities like Manchester and Newcastle tend to steal the spotlight, beyond the main tourist trails lie countless wild landscapes, and places so rich in character they feel like they’ve been plucked straight from a storybook. Whether you’re chasing quirky adventures or a taste of old-world charm, the North offers a world of discovery for those who wander off the beaten path. Finding hidden gems is becoming so popular that many sites are dedicated to showcasing them as online side hustles.

Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire

Tucked between cliffs on the Yorkshire coast, Robin Hood’s Bay truly feels like stepping back in time. This once-bustling village is now a maze of narrow, cobbled streets that twist and tumble down to the sea. Tiny cottages cling to the hillsides, painted in pastel tones that glow in the seaside air.

Spend the day exploring rock pools at low tide or enjoying fish and chips with a sea view. There’s a rich sense of history here; legend has it that contraband once passed through secret tunnels connecting the houses. As evening falls, the light over the bay turns golden, and the sound of waves against the harbour wall creates a calm that’s impossible to find anywhere else.

Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

A creative haven nestled in the Calder Valley, Hebden Bridge is a small town with a big personality. It’s known for its independent shops and thriving arts scene. Every corner seems to have a story,  from canal-side bookshops to vibrant street markets and cosy vegetarian cafés.

Surrounded by steep, green hills, it’s also a walker’s paradise. You can hike along the Pennine Way or take a gentler stroll by the River Calder, where old mills are now house studios and galleries. Hebden Bridge has a spirit of community that’s hard to describe but instantly felt, a place that welcomes dreamers and anyone looking to slow down and breathe.

Rievaulx Abbey, North Yorkshire Moors

Hidden in a tranquil valley near Helmsley, Rievaulx Abbey is one of the most breathtaking ruins in England. Once home to Cistercian monks, the setting is utterly peaceful, surrounded by forest and the sound of the River Rye.

It’s the kind of place that makes you stop, exhale, and feel small in the best possible way. Bring a book, wander among the ruins, and let time slow down. A nearby tearoom offers the perfect spot for relaxation with a pot of tea and a slice of cake, looking out across centuries of history.

Alnmouth, Northumberland

While nearby Alnwick Castle tends to draw the crowds, the tiny coastal village of Alnmouth remains delightfully under the radar. Set where the River Aln meets the North Sea, it’s a postcard-perfect spot of colourful cottages, quiet beaches, and sweeping dunes.

It’s ideal for a long walk along the sand, followed by a pint in one of its traditional pubs. Birdwatchers will love the nearby estuary, where wading birds and seals are a common sight. Despite its beauty, Alnmouth has managed to keep its peaceful charm, a place where time seems to drift as slowly as the tide.

Hawes, North Yorkshire Dales

Deep in Wensleydale lies the small, friendly market town of Hawes, surrounded by spectacular scenery. It’s best known as the home of Wensleydale cheese (yes, the one Wallace and Gromit adore), and you can visit the creamery to see how it’s made, and, of course, taste it fresh.

But Hawes is more than cheese. The Dales Countryside Museum, housed in an old station, offers a fascinating glimpse into rural life, and the surrounding hills are crisscrossed with walking trails that lead to waterfalls, limestone pavements, and heather-covered moorland. It’s a place where the pace of life slows and where simple pleasures are found.

Arnside, Cumbria

While the Lake District often takes the limelight, the neighbouring Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a quiet revelation. Arnside sits on the edge of Morecambe Bay, with sweeping coastal views and one of the most spectacular sunsets in the country.

It’s perfect for those who love the outdoors but prefer a gentler pace. Wander the shoreline, climb Arnside Knott for panoramic views across the bay, or simply sit with a coffee and watch the world go by. At low tide, you can see the famous tidal bore sweeping in, a reminder of nature’s power and rhythm.

Staithes, North Yorkshire Coast

Just up the coast from Whitby lies Staithes, a tiny fishing village full of charm and character. Once home to Captain Cook, its steep streets lead down to a small harbour dotted with colourful boats. The old cottages are tightly packed, their red rooftops forming a patchwork against the cliffs.

Staithes has long attracted artists, drawn by its unique light and dramatic coastline. Today, the Staithes Festival of Arts and Heritage celebrates that creative spirit by having locals open their homes as galleries. Even if you visit outside the festival, there’s magic in wandering through its winding alleys, stopping for a cream tea, or exploring the rocky beach. It’s the kind of place that draws out emotion and is full of heart.