Off-grid destinations to visit this Easter

When the promise of early spring sunshine starts teasing us out of winter coats, the Easter weekend becomes an ideal chance to hit the road, breathe fresh air and explore parts of Britain that feel a world away. With the school holidays, it can feel hard to break away from the queues and crowds, which means it’s time to explore lesser-known corners of the UK where scenic beauty, charming villages and hidden coastlines await.

Here’s our list of off-the-beaten-track destinations across the UK – each offering peaceful walks, authentic local experiences and a slower pace that’s perfect for a short but unforgettable Easter break.

Northumberland Coast & Alnmouth

Stretching across the far northeast of England, the Northumberland Coast is one of Britain’s best-kept secrets. Think wide-open skies, windswept beaches and castles that feel as old as the sea mist itself. While spots like Bamburgh and Alnwick have their own draw, the nearby village of Alnmouth feels beautifully unhurried, with pastel houses perched above vast sandy shores and river estuaries that are ideal for quiet coastal walks. From cosy pubs to sandy strolls at sunset, this stretch of shoreline is nature-rich and wonderfully crowd-free, especially compared with southern equivalents.

Place to stay:

Huffy House is a cute hideaway for two located just outside Alnmouth and a short drive from the coast. The views and traditional interiors make it a special spot.

Elterwater, Lake District

The Lake District has its famous hubs – but escape to Elterwater, tucked in a quieter corner of the national park, and you’ll find classic Lakeland landscapes with far fewer visitors. With stone cottages, gentle walking trails and views of small fells reflecting in serene waters, Elterwater is a delightful base for exploring the quieter side of this iconic region – perfect for slow hikes or lazy afternoons in a country pub.

Place to stay:

This utterly charming cottage in Kentmere is perfect for a romantic escape – surrounded by beautiful countryside, you’ll feel a million miles from anywhere.

Cley-next-the-Sea & North Norfolk Coast

If it’s coastal calm you’re after, then this stretch of the North Norfolk Coast delivers big skies, tranquil shingle beaches and beautiful birdlife. Cley-next-the-Sea is a small village surrounded by marshland and part of the Norfolk Coast Path, making it an ideal destination for coastal walks and nature watching. Far from the bustle of southern beaches at Easter, this understated spot invites you to slow down and listen to the wind and wildlife.

Place to stay

Pick the Old Mealhouse Cottage, dating back to the 1800s, for its utterly charming interiors (think exposed beams and woodburning stove) and great location just steps from the coast in beautiful Blakeney.

Hutton-le-Hole & Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire

The North York Moors, in Yorkshire, is a treasure chest of hidden spots, but few are as charming as Hutton-le-Hole, a tiny village known for its postcard-perfect green and traditional stone cottages. It’s ideal for gentle moorland walks and local pubs, and makes a great base for exploring the nearby coast. A short drive away, Robin Hood’s Bay clings dramatically to red cliffs, with winding alleyways and fossil-strewn beaches that reward exploration – especially enjoyable when spring tides leave treasure on the sand.

Place to stay:

For breathtaking coastal views and characterful interiors, Rokeby House, a four-bedroom house is an unbeatable option in Robin Hood’s Bay.

Exmoor National Park, Somerset & Devon

For rolling hills, dramatic coastlines and secret valleys, Exmoor delivers in spades. Quiet lanes thread through woodland, rivers, deep valleys and open moorland in west Somerset and north Devon. And, luckily, there are still plenty of hidden spots like Porlock Weir and Tarr Steps to discover. It’s a great choice if you want outdoor freedom – rambling trails, quaint villages and wild beauty – with a fraction of the visitors you might find in the more famous national parks.

Place to stay:

Little Silver Owl is a chic shepherd’s hut with unbeatable views – best enjoyed from the hot tub. Romantic and utterly remote.

Suffolk Coastal District

The east of England is often overlooked by travellers, but Suffolk’s coast and countryside are an absolute treat for those seeking peace. From windswept sands at Dunwich and Covehithe to the small riverside charm of Walberswick, this region’s quiet beaches, nature reserves and honey-coloured lanes are made for slow walks and lazy café stops. Pair coastal exploration with visits to tiny market towns and you’ll feel a million miles from the urban rush.

Place to stay:

Twosome has bags of historic charm with its exposed beams, slanting rooms and woodburning stove. It’s in a handy spot for exploring Suffolk’s coastal region, too.

Romney Marsh, Kent & East Sussex

Close to the southeast corner of England lies a landscape that feels almost forgotten: Romney Marsh. A tapestry of wetland, isolated farms and small communities, this area offers expansive skies, quiet roads and the kind of peace that’s rare in the UK. It’s a wonderful stop if you’re weaving through the south after exploring Kent’s gardens or heading west toward the downs.

Place to stay:

Despite its name, The Old Piggery, is anything but. Sleek, modern and very chic, this is one for the style conscious.

We’ve got all kinds of off-grid escapes on our books – browse our coastal cottages and properties in the countryside today.