We often look to far-flung destinations to fill our bucket list dreams, but take a step back and you’ll find a host of incredible experiences right on your doorstep that’ll keep you going until you board that flight! From hidden beaches in Devon to our favourite Cotswolds’ country pubs, this is nemo’s insider guide to the UK.
Devon
Eat & Drink
1. Crab Shed: there’s no shortage of great seafood in Devon, but this is our pick of the best
2. The White Horse Café: grab fantastic fish & chips to go and take it to the beach!
3. The Fountain Head: a proper country pub down a winding village road… what holidays are made of
Explore
1. Croyde Beach: the epic Jurassic Coast may be the most talked about, but this north Devon spot is worth the detour for both surfers and beach bums alike!
2. Lydford Gorge: the trail around the deepest gorge in the southwest and its impressive waterwall can be a little tricky to manoeuvre at times but we think the effort pays off
3. The Donkey Sanctuary: we always stop by when we’re in the area and combine it with a steep walk down to Weston Beach – a true hidden gem in this popular area
Cornwall
Eat & Drink
1. Prawn on the Lawn: on everyone’s radar and with an outpost in London, this may not be a secret spot but it is deservedly our favourite in Cornwall
2. Sea Fever: an understated restaurant that serves beautifully refined food centred around local produce
3. Temple: don’t confuse this one stop shop / restaurant for another hipster hangout, Temple are promoting local businesses and serving fabulous food besides!
Explore
1. Jubilee Pool: the crowning jewel of Penzance, this Art Deco open-air saltwater lido gives off definite holiday vibes
2. Mousehole Harbour: a picturesque fishing village, its narrow streets are packed with independent shops and galleries
3. Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden: this beautiful sculpture garden run by the Tate is where Hepsworth lived and worked for 26 years
The Cotswolds
Eat & Drink
1. The Mason Arms: the Artist Residence hotels are a firm nemo favourite and they have worked their magic again in the Cotswolds – a charming country pub with real style
2. Broadway Deli: picture postcard deli and café selling local produce and serving the absolute best scotch eggs!
3. The Stump: the restaurant at this ancient roadside inn is a local favourite; great atmosphere and fantastic pizzas
Explore
1. Picturesque villages: Stow On The Wold is our pick of the bunch – typical Cotswold style of architecture, plenty of independent shops and cafes and a lively farmer’s market every Thursday. But popular Bilbury is also not to be missed!
2. Rollright Stones: there are a number of fabulous country walks with typical Cotswolds views that lead to the magical Rollright Stones
3. Hidcote Gardens: colourful and intricately designed Arts & Crafts garden full of surprises
The Lake District
Eat & Drink
1. The Old Stamp House: Michelin starred restaurant that seats 28, the food shows off the best of the area and the experience is remarkably unfussy – a real favourite
2. Rogan & Co: another Michelin star experience with a lunch menu that is an absolute steal!
3. The Blacksmith Arms: there are many cosy pubs in the Lake District, but this one ticks all the boxes
Explore
1. Helm Crag: an adventurous half day walk that isn’t overly strenuous with perfect views over the Lake District
2. Keswick & Derwentwater: a charming and lively market town combined with a picturesque lake and mountainous scenery to explore – Lake District heaven!
3. Lake Windermere: England’s largest natural lake and the most popular attraction in the area, it is a must see and particularly fun if you’re into watersports!
The New Forest
Eat & Drink
1. The Pig: despite its success and many newer outposts around the country, the food here never disappoints (we are very keen on their Bloody Marys too)
2. Crow Farm Shop: this is the place to stock up on pork pies before heading out on a long country walk!
3. The Royal Oak: one of the many traditional pubs in the New Forest, this is a local favourite serving great ales and local ploughmans lunches
Explore
1. Country walks: the New Forest is best discovered on foot – to get a feel for the area, start with the Whitefield Moor and Blackwater trails
2. Brokenhurst Riding Stables: for a different perspective, why not explore the area on horseback?
3. Hambledon Vineyard: take a tour and taste some of the best sparkling wines England has to offer
Pembrokeshire
Eat & Drink
1. Runwayskiln: a hidden gem with delicious food and the most spectacular views
2. Stone Crab: affordable restaurant serving great local seafood with a buzzy atmosphere
3. The Haven Brasserie: more wonderful coastal views here and a particularly good Sunday roast!
Explore
1. Pembrokeshire Coast Path: stretching 186 miles, we’re not suggesting you walk the whole length, but there are plenty of opportunities for beautiful day long hikes
2. Barafundle Bay: voted one of the best beaches in the world, this remote bay of golden sand and crystal-clear waters is backed by dunes and pine trees and is an absolute must see
3. Tenby: this little harbour town is known for its 13th century town walls, pastel coloured facades and golden stretch of beach
Edinburgh
Eat & Drink
1. Timberyard: think Nordic vibes and Scottish hopsitality, inventive food using local produce and lots of delicious natural wines – perfection!
2. I.J. Mellis Cheesemongers: a very popular cheesemonger with an outstanding range of cheese from the U.K., it has expanded to several sites but we love sitting at the back of their Morningside branch with platefuls of goodies and wines to match
3. Fortitude Coffee: the best coffee in Edinburgh and also a great spot for breakfast, they have a central shop as well as another in lovely Stockbridge
Explore
1. Edinburgh Castle: visit the city’s most imposing landmark and then explore the Royal Mile, Old Town, Carlton Hill and New Town
2. Stockbridge: we love this neighbourhood; the food market on Sunday mornings is a must, and from here you can also walk into town along the footpath that follows the Water of Leith
3. Royal Botanical Garden: a green escape from the city centre, we particularly love the dramatic Victorian glasshouses, each representing a different part of the world
If this has inspired you to explore your backyard, let us know – we’re here to help!