By Sukriti Wahi Entertainment 08.04.2025

8 Underrated Villages in the UK and Ireland for Your Next Weekend Away

From quiet mountain towns in Wales to seaside escapes on the Cornish coast.

While the rest of Europe may be at our doorstep, there’s something to be said about the novelty of holidaying somewhere a little closer to home from time to time.

After all, the windswept islands of Ireland and the UK are hardly in short supply when it comes to quaint stays and storybook scenery. Although it’s easy to overlook them when they're, well, right there.

Due for a weekend away? Consider this our case for a sojourn close to home, with a selection of underrated villages worthy of your attention.

Read on and ready the itinerary.

1. Ledbury, Herefordshire, England

A medieval market town dating back to 690 AD, Ledbury is just under three hours’ drive from London in Herefordshire – a county once called England’s “most under-the-radar” by Condé Nast Traveller. Wander its high street lined with timber-framed buildings, browse for hours in myriad independent boutiques and galleries, and be sure to snap a photo of the famously stilted Market Hall in the centre of the town. Less than 10 minutes by car from town in Malvern Hills, add Eastnor Castle – an incredible château on a 5,000-acre estate boasting a lake, deer park and yew maze – to the agenda. Fun fact? It featured onscreen as the Roy family’s stately home in season one of Succession.

2. St Mawes, Cornwall, England

With its whitewashed cottages and bright blue waters, St Mawes could be mistaken for somewhere on the Mediterranean at first glance, but the seaside town is a true Cornish gem. Located at the end of the Roseland Peninsula, this former fishing village is ideal for vacationers seeking a coastal escape without the crowds. Slow down for a spot of sailing, visit one of its beaches – Summers Beach has great rock pools to explore at low tide – and savour locally sourced seafood with water views at the luxurious Idle Rocks hotel.

3. Roundstone, Connemara, Ireland

One of the oldest fishing villages on the west coast of Ireland, Rounstone in the heart of the Connemara region of County Galway is just an hour and 15 minutes’ by car from Galway city. Known for its traditional arts scene, cosy pubs and postcard-worthy landscapes – spanning both secluded beaches and rugged mountains – there’s something here for all travellers’ tastes. Fans of Irish folk music should be sure to pop into Malachy Kearns’ music and crafts store, Roundstone Musical Instruments, in an old Franciscan monastery. A renowned Roundstone local and master craftsman of Ireland’s oldest hand-held drum, the Bodhrán, he’s likely to regale you with a town tale or two over a cup of tea.

4. Dunkeld, Perth and Kinross, Scotland

A historic town on the banks of the River Tay, Dunkeld is often dubbed the “Gateway to the Highlands”. With roots stretching back to the 7th century, when it emerged as a centre for Christianity. It’s famous for the Dunkeld cathedral, which today lies in majestic ruins (and is particularly picturesque on a misty day). Part of Scotland’s “Big Tree Country”, it’s ideal for nature-lovers and worth a trip during autumn, when the ancient forests that fringe the river turn vibrant shades of gold and copper. When you’re done meandering one of its many charming woodland trails, head back into town for a hearty pub meal or consider a local whisky and truffle tasting.

5. Amersham, Buckinghamshire, England

Although not entirely unknown, you could be forgiven for forgetting about Amersham, thanks to its proximity to London. Just over half’n’hour’s train ride from the English capital, the market town has two distinct personalities. Surrounded by rolling hills, there’s Old Amersham, boasting over 150 nationally Listed Buildings (including the 14th-century King’s Arms Hotel, which made a cameo in Four Weddings and a Funeral). Then there’s the modern Amersham-on-the-Hill, which came about in the early 20th century after the arrival of the railway, featuring a slew of high street shops and independent boutiques. With its charming mix of country and city, The Times even named Amersham as one of the best places to live in 2025.

6. Beddgelert, Gwynedd, Wales

Hidden in the heart of Snowdonia National Park among rugged peaks and winding rivers, you’ll find the stone-built village of Beddgelert. Less visited than the nearby Betws-y-Coed, the storybook-worthy town has a local population of just 460 people. It’s not short on charm, however, with scenic nature walks along the Glaslyn River, quaint cafés and lore-steeped historical sites to visit (be sure to stop at Gelert’s Grave, named after a legendary dog who saved Prince Llywelyn’s infant from a wolf).

7. Ennistymon, Clare, Ireland

Tucked away in County Clare, Ennistymon is a market town where traditional Irish culture meets natural beauty. Cascading waterfalls rush through the centre of town, while colourful shopfronts and lively pubs offer warm hospitality (Cooley’s House is a must for an Irish coffee by the fire and some live traditional music). Centrally located along the Wild Atlantic Way – over 1500 miles of dramatic western coastline – it’s the perfect base for exploring the Cliffs of Moher and beyond.

8. Tenby, Pembrokeshire, Wales

Touted as the “Jewel in Pembrokeshire’s Crown”, Tenby is a pastel-hued harbour town on Wales’ southwestern coast. With a mélange of golden sand beaches, medieval walls, and cobbled streets, you won’t even need a car to enjoy this walkable village. There’s plenty to do to suit all tastes, including visiting 12th-century castle ruins, fishing, swimming, people-watching along the port and sailing out to the nearby Caldey Island. Have a sweet tooth? Pop into Roly’s Fudge Pantry for a decadent sea salt or Baileys-flavoured slice.