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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Travel
Rosaleen Fenton

Stunning secret UK holiday spots to visit that could be mistaken for being abroad

Thousands of Brits could be heard sighing earlier this week when Health Secretary Matt Hancock made the gloomy pronouncement that holidays abroad are unlikely.

Whilst the news was expected, it's disappointing for millions of people who had hoped that lockdown restrictions may be relaxed before the end of summer.

But to make up for the bad news - researchers at Faraway Furniture have proven that Britain really is blessed with some stunning locations.

And many of these spots could trick you into believing you are abroad - and you don't have to pack your passport.

So here's some inspiration for when lockdown loosens - but note that driving to beauty spots in Scotland and Wales is currently not allowed.

West Voe Beach in the Shetlands  - instead of West Voe Beach in the Shetlands

It's hard to believe you're in Scotland with such a jawdropping, even if the weather might give it away. Wildlife is one of the main draws - with puffins, otters, pods of whales and dolphins.

Observatory Gully, Ben Nevis, Scottish Highlands - instead of Mont Blanc in the French Alps

For the experienced and brave amongst us, a climb up Britain's highest mountain offers an opportunity to gaze at some of Scotland's natural grandeur.

It stands 1,344m above sea level, near Fort William in Scotland, which is packed with brilliant walks and stunning scenery.

Ben Nevis is hugely popular with rock climbers and mountaineers, and attracts around 100,000 ascents a year.

Elegug Stacks, Pembrokeshire - instead of Nusa Penida, in Bali

These incredible sea stacks can be found in Wales. The incredible rock formations rise steeply from the sea, worn away by erosion. They are situated just to the east of the Green Bridge of Wales, a beautiful example of our evolving coastline

It's also an excellent place for birds to nest in spring - so twitchers flock here.
 

High Force Waterfalls, Durham - instead of Nauyaca Waterfalls in Costa Rica

Although it cannot compare with the world wonder of Niagara but in the gorgeous green Durham Dales, High Force waterfalls is still a spectacular delight.

They are just one of the highlights of the 280-mile Pennine Way, which links the Peak District with the Scottish Borders.

Langamull Beach, Isle of Mull, Scotland - instead of Crane Beach in Barbados

The jaw-dropping beach is often introduced as the Isle of Mull’s best kept secret.

Whilst it can't match warmer temperatures abroad, this beaches stunning views will leave your friends convinced that you've been abroad, whilst the shallow sea makes it ideal for snorkelling.

And the crystal clear waters and white sand make it a perfect spot for family holidays.

Norfolk lavender fields - instead of  lavender fields in Provence

These 100 acres of lavender don't look too dissimilar from the highly-desirable Provence Vineyards of France.

If you close your eyes, the scent of lavender hanging heavy in the air whilst butterflies dance above fields of purple flowers could trick you into thinking you were overseas.

Visit in summer and embrace the flora-fest.

Mealt falls, Isle of Skye - instead of Háifoss waterfall in Iceland

Whilst Iceland is famous for its eyecatching waterfalls, but the Isle of Skye in Scotland will also make your jaw drop as you embrace the majesty of nature.

The 55m plunging waters of Mealt Falls will hopefully halt your wanderlust, even just for a moment, and offer a moment of tranquility.

Bidean nam Bian, Scotland - instead of peaks on the Himalayas

Taken from the summit of Beinn a'Chrulaiste with Bidean nam Bian in the distance (Getty Images)

It's no secret that Scotland boasts some of the finest scenery in the world.

Thanks to the country's stunning natural beauty, the Three Sisters of Glen Coe, part of the mountain Bidean nam Bian in Argyll has previously been voted Scotland's best view.

So whilst it's not on the same scale of some of Norway's mountains, you'll still get an out of this world view.

Cockington village, Devon - instead of French village of Veules-les-Roses

Come to breathe in the salty sea air, share your chips with a and apply lashings of cream to your traditional scone in Torquay's picture postcard village.

There's no reason to miss that Normandy village when you can enjoy mouthwatering freshly caught seafood and an astonishing coastal view here.

Just like a character in an Agatha Christie story, there is far more to this geologically gifted area than what meets the eye, meaning you won't have time to pine for the abroad.

Sgwd Yr Eira Waterfall, Brecon Beacons, Wales - instead of Mae Tad waterfall in Chiang Mai, Thailand

It is not every day that you can walk behind a waterfall, making it an unforgettable experience.

You won't have to travel as far as you would to visit Mae Tad waterfall in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and you can still ensure excellent photographs as you slip behind a 20ft curtain of water.

And the stunning moorland offers plenty of opportunity for gorgeous walks - and a chance to visit some of the best pubs in Britain.

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