5 UK Rural Break Dupes for Calm in the Countryside

Nothing quite refreshes like a countryside escape, but certain rural spots in the UK are getting as packed as city centres. And with 78% of people intending to take an overnight domestic trip over the next 12 months, some popular destinations may find it tough to accommodate too many holidaymakers.

While there’s no shortage of scenic beauty, the surge in visitors means that places like the Cotswolds, the Lake District, and the Yorkshire Dales are facing a surprising level of crowding and price hikes.

This is where a travel “dupe” — or less-travelled alternative — can be the magic ticket. With similar landscapes, a slower pace, and often friendlier prices, a few tucked-away UK locations rival famous countryside destinations for peace and charm.

Here, we explore some overlooked rural gems where you can unwind without elbowing through crowds, enjoy stunning countryside views, with touches of authenticity, all at a lower cost.

Swap Yorkshire Dales for the Forest of Bowland

Photo by Amit Jagnade on Unsplash

The Yorkshire Dales are legendary, but if you’re after that same rolling green countryside minus the jostling, then the Forest of Bowland in Lancashire is your answer. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) remains one of the North West’s hidden treasures.

Ben Mercer of Leisure Lakes Bikes, the UK’s leading mountain bikes supplier, says: “The Forest of Bowland has some of the best, lesser-known routes. You’ll find gravel tracks through quiet woodland and highland ridges with barely another soul in sight. For cyclists, there’s a blend of challenging climbs and scenic descents. And for walkers, the Pendle Hill loop offers striking moorland views with a rich history, not to mention plenty of spots to rest and picnic. If you’re drawn to the Yorkshire feel without the hefty price tag, Bowland’s simple, timeless beauty offers the perfect dupe.”

Skip the Cotswolds, head to the Wye Valley

Photo by Hayley Wild on Unsplash

The honey-coloured villages of the Cotswolds have put it firmly on the map, but they’ve also brought in throngs of visitors and high prices. Wye Valley, which runs along the England-Wales border, offers scenic hills and winding rivers that create a setting that’s equally fairytale-like, but with fewer teashops crammed with tourists.

Hiking and cycling trails abound, with hidden pathways that lead you past ancient woodlands, ruined abbeys, and riverside views — all without needing to wrestle for a spot on the trail. The Wye Valley is also known for its quaint, welcoming villages, like Ross-on-Wye and Tintern, where local artisans are more likely to strike up a chat than upsell you on souvenirs. Plus, you can often grab a B&B or local inn for much less than in the Cotswolds, where accommodation prices are soaring.

Swap the Lake District for the Ribble Valley

While the Lake District usually gets all the attention, the Ribble Valley in Lancashire has just as much charm, with fewer crowds and a rich sense of heritage. Known for its beautiful landscapes and timeless villages, this area is a hidden slice of paradise. The valley features lush rolling hills, dense woodlands, and the winding River Ribble — all with fewer tourists snapping photos on every corner.

The Ribble Valley has some of the best, lesser-known cycling routes in the North West. You’ve got hilly climbs for a bit of a challenge and gentle, scenic lanes through historic villages like Whalley and Clitheroe. It’s ideal if you want that Lake District scenery without the hustle.

Escape to Loch Awe instead of Loch Lomond

Photo by Damien Ramage on Unsplash

Scotland’s Loch Lomond is a beloved destination, attracting crowds for its dreamy landscapes and easy reach from Glasgow. But a few hours north, Loch Awe provides a similarly serene escape. Here, you’ll find sweeping hills, pine forests, and one of Scotland’s best castle ruins: Kilchurn Castle, perched dramatically on the loch’s edge. It’s the kind of wild beauty that fills the soul, and the quiet waters are ideal for kayaking, fishing, or just taking in the view with a hot cuppa in hand.

Because it’s a bit more remote, Loch Awe doesn’t pull in the same numbers, making it a haven for anyone wanting to enjoy Scotland’s famous lochs without bustling car parks. Accommodation around here is friendly on the wallet too, especially if you’re open to rustic lodges or camping by the water’s edge.

Opt for The Clwydian Range instead of The Peak District

While the Peak District holds iconic status, the Clwydian Range in North Wales is equally awe-inspiring yet far less crowded. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers a similar landscape, with rolling hills, open fields, and limestone cliffs that are perfect for hikers and mountain bikers alike.

Photo by Mitchell Orr on Unsplash

The Clwydians have these incredible ridgeline trails, and the views stretch on for miles. It’s a great alternative if you’re after that Peak District feeling but want fewer cars and coach groups clogging the paths. Llandegla Forest also has excellent mountain biking trails, and the local hospitality in North Wales can be a pleasant surprise, with friendly pub owners and affordable stays that make this dupe a steal.

No matter what’s the destination for your next staycation, there’s no shortage of UK countryside dupes that bring relaxation, scenery, and savings in one package. If you’re open to venturing just off the beaten path, you’ll find quieter spots that feel refreshingly authentic.

Top photo by Jamie on Unsplash

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