Tourists and influencers have taken over the Cotswolds - these are the spectacular alternatives to visit instead

Published: 08:01 BST, 30 June 2026 | Updated: 08:02 BST, 30 June 2026

Once the jewel of the English countryside, the Cotswolds has become a victim of its own success.

Drawn by social media and millions of visitors each year, the honey-coloured villages that once felt like hidden gems are now among Britain’s busiest tourist destinations.

Nowhere is this more obvious than Bourton-on-the-Water. Once a sleepy riverside village, it has become synonymous with packed streets, traffic jams and crowds of selfie-takers during the peak summer months.

The issue isn’t that people are visiting the Cotswolds: it’s the sheer scale of tourism.

Some of the region’s most famous villages have become overcrowded, more expensive and increasingly difficult to enjoy at the height of the season.

Last year, some even introduced new measures, including visitor charges , to help manage the influx.

So rather than searching for an untouched corner of the Cotswolds this summer, why not head somewhere different?

From rolling hills and picturesque market towns to spectacular coastlines and mountain landscapes, these destinations offer all the beauty of the UK countryside, without the crowds.

The old church square in Market Harborough provides a historical picturesque backdrop

You've heard of the Cotswolds, of course - but what about the 'Notswolds'?

The Welland Valley, on the border of Leicestershire and Northamptonshire, has gained this comical nickname due to its beauty as well as its much more budget-friendly price tag.

Market Harborough, right in the heart of this region, is a standout destination to visit, with many of the same attractions you'd find in the Cotswolds.

There's no shortage of things to do outside. Check out Wistow Maze for a family-friendly day out, or visit the canals. Adrenaline junkies can also enjoy quad biking, off-road driving and clay pigeon shooting at Avalanche Adventure.

For the vast countryside of the Cotswolds but a quieter ambience, try out the Shropshire Hills

The Shropshire Hills may not have the same ring to it as the Cotswolds.

But towns such as Church Stretton, Bishop’s Castle, Craven Arms, Clun, Much Wenlock and Cleobury Mortimer have just the same English feel to them as many alternatives.

No convincing is required of the beauty of the surrounding countryside, either - the Shropshire Hills National Landscape is one of the best in the UK.

It was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1958 (now known as a National Landscape).

In September, check out Ludlow's food festival, too, for a taste of independent products and a congenial vibe.

The Black Mountains, on the England, Wales border, are another excellent choice

The Black Mountains, the easternmost of the four mountain ranges of hills comprising the Brecon Beacons National Park, provide some of the UK's most exquisite views.

Check out the nearby towns of Abergavenny, Crickhowell and Talgarth for a new spot to explore.

Waun Fach is the highest point of the Black Mountains - an ideal hike for avid walkers - but other key peaks include Hay Bluff, Sugar Loaf and Twmpa, also known as Lord Hereford’s Knob.

Monmouth Viaduct on the river Wye rivals the beaty of the Cotswolds

Whether you stay in Ross-on-Wye, Hay-on-Wye or somewhere in between, this section of the UK countryside is well worth a look.

Some spots - such as Symonds Yat, of Sex Education fame - lure in more tourists than others, but much of this region is taken up by the sort of countryside pubs, long walks, forested paths and riverside scenery many of us seek during the warmer months.

It's perfect for outdoorsy types, too, with canoe hire available as well as a nearby Go Ape.

For culture vultures, you can visit Goodrich Castle, the ruins of Wigmore Castle and plenty of small villages for a mooch.

Clappersgate is an excellent central base for exploring the Lake District

Around 18 million visitors come to the Lake District every year to enjoy the beautiful scenery, wildlife, and outdoor activities.

But many stick to the busy areas of Windermere, Kendal, and Ambleside, missing out on the beauty of lesser-known areas that the national park has to offer.

One hidden gem nestled in the South Lakes area is Clappersgate, according to Lake District local Jerry Rebbeck from Wheelwrights Cottages.

It's a peaceful village located on the outskirts of Ambleside, making it an ideal base for those wanting to explore the national park while avoiding the busy areas.

It may be a small village, but it boasts a rich history with many historic structures, including the notable Clappersgate Bridge.

Opt for the Peak District if the great outdoors is up your street, with walks galore

The Lake District may be stunning - but the Peak District has all of the magnificent scenery, and nowhere near as many crowds.

For a standout stay, opt for Swinney Wood Log Cabins, right on the edge of the Peak District - it was voted Europe's Most Romantic Resort 2025 in the World Travel Awards.

And while it might not possess the glitz and glam of places like the Ritz in London or Paris's elegant five-star hotels, it has one key advantage: it's entirely crowd-free.

The cabins have sweeping views of the spectacular Derwent Valley, a World Heritage site recognised by UNESCO for its outstanding international importance.