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This tiny English seaside town is officially one of Europe’s most beautiful ‘secret destinations’

A fishing village in Yorkshire features highly in a 2024 ranking by Europe’s Best Destinations

Annie McNamee
Written by
Annie McNamee
Contributor, Time Out London and UK
Staithes, Yorkshire
Photograph: Shutterstock
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The UK gets a bit of a bad rap, particularly from people who live here. We like to complain about how rubbish things are and head off on holidays to literally anywhere else, but it’s not all that bad this side of the Channel. 

Europe’s Best Destinations (EBD), a website whose raison d’être is about as clear as its name can make it, recently released its list of Europe’s most beautiful hidden gems. The small Spanish town of Villajoyosa came in first place and you can find out more about the entire list here

Admittedly, Britain doesn’t feature heavily in the lineup – but we did manage to sneak our way into the top 20. Staithes, a small fishing village on the east Yorkshire coast, was named Europe’s 18th most beautiful hidden destination, which isn’t half bad at all.

According to EBD, Staithes is ‘a perfect destination if you’re a geologist or want to go fossil hunting with your kids or just want a foodie getaway in England’. 

If you’re not a geologist or fossil-loving child, fear not. Staithes is gorgeous to look at as well. Built like a picture-perfect toy-town, it’s the sort of place you’d expect to find Postman Pat, or get tangled up in a mystery which ends up somehow involving all 700 residents, and their dogs. Being relatively unknown also means Staithes is very cheap to stay in, with rooms in some BnBs starting at only £30 a night. In other words, it’s also ideal for a budget staycation. 

This summer, think outside the box. Think beyond the all-inclusive calling your name. Opt for a tiny fishing town and pray that it doesn’t rain the entire time.

Staycations according to Time Out

If you’re currently planning your next UK trip why not try one of our favourite cool Airbnbs in the country, or embark on one of these top rated Great British road trips? For something a bit more out there, have a look at these cool islands scattered across England, or check out these haunted places you can visit.

Did you see that one of the UK’s most legendary nightclubs is closing for good?

Plus: This British airline has been crowned the best in Europe.

Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out UK newsletter for the latest UK news and the best stuff happening across the country.

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