By Boutique Handbook writers
With travel still getting back to normal, it’s time to discover some hidden gems in Britain’s own backyard.
In these stunning shots taken on Samsung’s new Galaxy S21 5G phone, all these UK destinations could be mistaken for being abroad.
From white sandy beaches which wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean to England’s very own Taj Mahal, you won’t believe these places are in the UK.
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Places you won’t believe are in the UK
Isles of Scilly
With its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and subtropical temperatures, you could be forgiven for thinking you are in the Caribbean, but the Isles of Scilly are just 15 minutes from the Cornish coast by plane. The enchanting archipelago is made up of 140 islands, most of which are uninhabited. If you’re planning a visit, the main islands are St Mary’s, St Agnes, Bryher, St Martin’s and Tresco, the latter of which is famed for its beautiful botanical gardens.
Royal Pavilion, Brighton
Everybody knows about India’s famed Taj Mahal, but did you know there is a similar structure right here in the UK? The Royal Pavilion was built as a seaside palace for King George IV more than 200 years ago, and is where Indian architecture meets Regency grandeur. It later served as a World War I hospital, but these days it is one of Brighton’s most famous museums.
Glaslyn Lake, Snowdonia
Llyn Glaslyn, meaning ‘blue lake’ in Welsh, is one of the most spectacular spots in Snowdonia National Park. Yet this ellipse shaped glacial lake, surrounded by wild heather moorlands, wouldn’t look out of place in the dramatic landscapes of Iceland.
Ilfracombe, Devon
The picturesque town of Ilfracombe in North Devon is said to be the new St Ives due to its rising status as a cultural and foodie hotspot. Unique attractions include the Tunnel Beaches, a collection of four tunnels hand carved in the 1820s which lead to sheltered beaches and a Victorian tidal bathing pool. It’s also home to Damien Hirst’s controversial 66ft steel and bronze sculpture, Verity. But in this sunset shot, the town looks like the iconic harbour of Rio de Janeiro on a much smaller scale.
Bournemouth Beach
Bournemouth Beach is frequently voted one of the UK’s best beaches for its award-winning golden sands and clean water. Such is its appeal, it was recently ranked among the top 25 beaches in the world in the TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Awards. But this sand dune shot leading down to the sea looks very similar to another taken in the tropical Seychelles.
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