Travelling the world is the ultimate dream. Yet, we all know that booking a flight to the other side of the world isn’t always possible.
So, what do you do if you can’t go to far-off destinations? You find similar places nearby, of course.
Today, I share some of my favourite places in the UK that look like abroad. I have no doubt that you’ll be surprised by the many hidden gems on your doorstep!
Author Bio: Jessie Moore
Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.
This post contains affiliate links.
1. Portmeirion in Wales // Portofino in Italy
Portmeirion is a quaint village along the coast of Northern Wales where you can experience an Italianate lifestyle. It’s the perfect place for those seeking a fairytale-like weekend trip.
Portmeirion boasts 70 acres of woodland, gardens, and a private beach resort.
You can take in the fantastic views of the Snowdonia mountains as you indulge in homemade gelato at the city centre.
Make sure you leave time to explore the secret coves and ancient castles that Portmeirion has to offer!
Discover more fairytale towns in the UK.
2. Isle of Skye in Scotland // New Zealand
The Isle of Skye is a dreamy destination where you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a mystical landscape.
Located on Scotland’s coast, this place has rugged mountains, mediaeval castles, and dramatic cliffs.
Be sure to visit the Fairy Pools, a series of crystal-clear lagoons streaming down the hillside of Coire na Creiche.
Afterwards, walk along the iconic Storr, a towering basalt rock formation where you can become immersed in the landscape.
3. St. Michael’s Mount in Cornwall // Mont Saint-Michel in France
St. Michael’s Mount is a historic island 365 metres off of Mount’s Bay.
Here, you can walk along a cobblestone path that pilgrims, nobles, and traders used to tread hundreds of years ago.
Once you reach the end, you’ll discover a magical castle amidst a garden paradise!
4. Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland // Reynisfjara in Iceland
You may think that the rock formations at Reynisfjara in Iceland are unique. Yet, you can get the same spectacular experience on Northern Island.
The Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 40,000 polygonal columns. These are the rock formations that inspired stories of giants walking over the sea of Scotland!
Discover more ideas for your UK travel bucket list.
5. Isle of Scilly near Cornwall // The Caribbean
One of my go-to holiday destinations is the Isles of Scilly, a group of islets off the coast of Cornwall. This is because coming here is like travelling to the Caribbean – almost!
The Isle of Scilly is an enchanting and unspoilt beauty where you can island hop and relax on a white sand beach. There’s no place else in the UK quite like it.
6. Blenheim Palace in The Cotswolds // Versailles Palace in France
If you’ve always wanted to visit Versailles Palace, check out the beautiful Blenheim Palace in the Cotswolds.
Blenheim Palace is a masterpiece featuring intricate interiors, a garden maze, and 2000 acres of parkland.
It houses some of the finest antiques and is the best example of Baroque architecture in the UK.
Discover more of the best things to do in the Cotswolds.
Get access to my Cotswolds travel guide
I have curated all of my Cotswolds knowledge and recommendations into one comprehensive guide, complete with an interactive map, filtering options and itineraries.
It’s available to buy through Rexby and you can preview parts of it for free. Get in touch if you have any questions about my Cotswolds guide!
7. Castle Farm in Kent // Provence in France
Castle Farm is a breathtaking (and award-winning) lavender farm in the heart of Northern Kent. It sits in a pretty little village with beautiful clear skies reminiscent of Provence in France.
When you come here, be prepared to shop for apples, honey, and various lavender products.
The farm’s owners also craft beverages and other seasonal decorations, so forget to stop by their souvenir shop!
Discover more of the best things to do in Kent, or read my guide to nearby Sevenoaks.
8. Durdle Door in Dorset // Lagos in Portugal
Lagos in Portugal holds a special place in my heart for its rich culture and coastal beauty. That said, if I can’t travel to the Lusitanian Country, then Durdle Door is my next go-to.
Located in Dorset, Durdle Door’s highlights are its limestone arch and beach. The natural rock formations resulted from thousands of years of sea erosion.
Because of its stunning landscape, it’s no surprise that Durdle Door is popular amongst photographers and hikers.
9. St. Ives in Cornwall // Dubrovnik in Croatia
St. Ives is an idyllic seaside town with the same coastal charm as Dubrovnik in Croatia. I love it for its picturesque sandy beaches and vibrant art scene.
Here, you can explore caves and cliffs or ride a zipline to appreciate the panoramic views of Cornwall. Afterwards, stop by the shops for some of the local produce!
Discover more of the best towns in Cornwall.
10. Royal Pavilion in Brighton // Taj Mahal in India
You may think that the Taj Mahal is a unique architectural wonder. However, did you know you can experience the same exotic beauty in Brighton?
The Royal Pavilion is an Indian-inspired seaside palace that once belonged to King George IV. It’s a pleasure home for royalty, featuring eccentric but intricate interiors.
Truly, the Royal Pavillon’s grandeur is unlike anything else in the UK!
11. Castell Coch in Wales // Transylvania in Romania
Castell Coch is a castle teeming with history. It was built in the Victorian period but was inspired by the Middle Ages.
Hence, the Castell Coch is an eclectic mix of different eras similar to the ones you’ll find in Romania.
What makes the Castell Coch stand out are its dazzling ceilings and opulent bedrooms. It’s well worth stopping by for a quick view and some afternoon tea.
12. Minack Theatre in Cornwall // Kourion Amphitheatre in Cyprus
The Minack Theatre is a remarkable open-air amphitheatre carved into the cliffs of Cornwall. When I first saw it, it immediately reminded me of the Kourion Amphitheatre in Cyprus.
Coming here means you’ll be treated to a stunning coastal backdrop as you enjoy one of the live performances.
What’s more, you can explore the gardens and various exhibitions around the site. A visit to the Minack Theatre is one of the best attractions in Cornwall if you ask me!
Countless places in the UK offer the same beautiful scenery as destinations abroad. All you have to do is look for some of the best hidden gems on your doorstep!
Do you know of any places in the UK that look like abroad? Let me know in the comments below!
For more UK inspiration, you may also like:
- 30 ideas for your UK travel bucket list
- 12 must-visit hidden gems in the UK
- 12 amazing foodie breaks in the UK
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