Howick Bathing House, a historic holiday cottage perched on a clifftop in Northumberland, has been named the second-best hidden gem staycation destination in Northern England. The ranking comes from car rental experts SIXT, who identified top hidden spots in each northern county based on accessibility, weather, pollution, and visitor reviews.
Historical landmark with coastal views
Built in the early 19th century by Charles Grey, the 2nd Earl Grey and British Prime Minister from 1830 to 1834, the Grade II listed cottage sits near Howick Hall, the ancestral home of the Grey family. The seaside retreat offers views of Craster and Dunstanburgh Castle to the north, and is located within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
The property lies within 100 miles of protected coast running from Berwick in the north to the mouth of the River Coquet in the south. It has been transformed into a luxury three-bedroom stay for up to six people and two dogs, with an open-plan living room, kitchen, and dining area downstairs.
Popularity and demand
The bathing house typically has year-long waiting lists due to its popularity. The research found that 78% of UK adults plan to take at least one domestic overnight trip in the next 12 months, with the North of England expected to attract 45% of travellers.
Anna Golding, Head of Marketing & PR at SIXT, said: "One of the main things that makes the North of England such an ideal place for a staycation is how much variety you can pack into one trip. You don't have to travel far to experience something completely different, whether that's walking along a sweeping coastline, exploring peaceful woodland, or discovering a hidden waterfall in the hills."
Other top spots
Wasdale Emerald Pool in Cumbria took the top spot, while Cauldron Snout Waterfall in County Durham was third. St. Mary's Lighthouse in Whitley Bay ranked ninth, and Hardcastle Crags in West Yorkshire completed the top 10.
