**This is a collaborative post**

When it comes to planning a UK getaway, most of us are searching for the same thing: beautiful scenery, great food and plenty to see and do. Fortunately, the UK is packed with destinations that offer exactly that combination!

Recent research by Hammonds Furniture explored the places Britons consider the most picturesque and identified a number of beautiful towns and villages that offer incredible scenery without necessarily carrying the premium price tag often associated with famous beauty spots. So, whether you’re planning a family day out, a weekend escape or simply looking for inspiration for future adventures, here are some of the UK’s prettiest places where you can enjoy stunning walks, memorable attractions and excellent food along the way.

Whitby, Yorkshire: Dramatic coastline and seaside classics

Whitby regularly appears on lists of Britain’s most picturesque destinations, and it’s easy to understand why. Perched on the Yorkshire coast, this historic fishing town combines beautiful, rugged cliffs and centuries of maritime history. Start your visit with a walk up the famous 199 Steps to Whitby Abbey, whose dramatic silhouette overlooks the town below. The views across the North Sea are spectacular, particularly on a clear day! Back down in the town centre, wander through the narrow cobbled streets filled with independent shops, cafés and traditional sweet stores. Whitby is, of course, famous for its fish and chips, making a seaside lunch almost compulsory. Families will also find plenty to keep children entertained, from beachcombing and fossil hunting to boat trips around the harbour.

Portmeirion, Gwynedd: A slice of the Mediterranean in Wales

One of the most unique locations in the UK, Portmeirion looks as though it has been transported directly from the Italian Riviera and placed on the Welsh coast. The colourful village was designed by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis and features pastel-coloured buildings, elegant piazzas, subtropical gardens and beautiful estuary views. Every corner seems designed for photographs, making it one of the most distinctive destinations featured in Hammonds’ picturesque places research.

Spend the morning exploring the village itself before heading out into the surrounding woodland walks. The nearby coastal scenery offers plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs while enjoying stunning views across the Dwyryd Estuary. When it’s time to refuel, you’ll find several cafés and restaurants serving everything from light lunches to afternoon tea.

Margate, Kent: Art, beaches and retro charm

Once known primarily as a traditional seaside resort, Margate has undergone something of a renaissance in recent years. Its golden sandy beach remains a major attraction, but today visitors will also discover an impressive arts scene, independent boutiques and excellent food options. The Turner Contemporary gallery has become one of the town’s biggest draws, while the iconic Dreamland amusement park adds a nostalgic touch to any visit.

One of the joys of Margate is simply strolling along the seafront. The combination of colourful beach huts, sea views and vintage architecture creates a wonderfully photogenic setting. Food lovers are particularly well served here, with everything from fresh seafood and artisan bakeries to trendy brunch spots and independent coffee shops scattered throughout the town centre.

The Cotswolds: Storybook villages and countryside walks

The Cotswolds consistently ranks among Britain’s most beautiful regions, and a visit quickly explains why. Honey-coloured stone cottages, rolling countryside and charming village greens create the kind of scenery that seems almost too perfect to be real. Villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury and Stow-on-the-Wold attract visitors from around the world, yet still manage to retain much of their timeless appeal.

A visit to the Cotswolds is best enjoyed at a slower pace. Many of the area’s walking routes connect villages together, making it easy to combine beautiful scenery with excellent food stops along the way. Whether you’re stopping for afternoon tea, a pub lunch or locally produced ice cream, the region excels at combining countryside charm with hospitality.

Cornwall: Coastal beauty around every corner

According to Hammonds’ research, Cornwall remains one of the UK’s most admired picturesque destinations. It’s a county that seems to offer postcard-worthy views wherever you turn. From the fishing harbours of Fowey and Falmouth to dramatic landmarks such as St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall provides endless opportunities for exploration.

One of the best ways to experience the county is on foot. Sections of the South West Coast Path deliver breathtaking coastal views, while shorter family-friendly walks allow visitors to enjoy the scenery without committing to a full day’s hiking. Fresh seafood dominates many menus, but Cornwall is equally famous for its bakeries, cream teas and farm shops. A day spent exploring coastal villages is made even better when accompanied by a Cornish pasty and an ice cream overlooking the sea.

Shrewsbury: Historic streets and Riverside Strolls

Often overlooked in favour of better-known tourist hotspots, Shrewsbury is one of England’s hidden gems. The medieval market town offers more than 600 listed buildings, winding streets and beautiful riverside scenery. The River Severn loops around much of the town centre, creating a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere despite the abundance of attractions. Spend a few hours exploring the independent stores before enjoying a walk through The Quarry, a large riverside park that provides plenty of open space for families.

A picture-perfect UK adventure

The beauty of the UK is that stunning destinations can be found in every corner of the country; there is no shortage of places that combine incredible scenery with memorable experiences. As Hammonds’ research demonstrates, many of the locations Britons find most picturesque also make fantastic places to visit. Add in excellent local food, family-friendly attractions and beautiful walking routes, and it’s easy to see why these destinations continue to inspire travellers year after year – and deserve a spot on your travel list.