So long Cornwall, Cheddar and the Cotswolds: discover the UK ‘destination dupes’ to beat the crowds

02.04.2024 - 11:27 / theguardian.com

You’re probably already familiar with the concept of the fashion or beauty dupe: a piece of clothing or a product which is similar to the original must-have item you’re swapping it for, in form and function, but which often costs significantly less without compromising on quality. This trend has swept TikTok (of course), and has now extended into the realm of travel. The idea is to exchange a popular destination for one that has similar qualities but is often overlooked, and which fewer people know about.

In this climate of over-tourism, “destination dupes” are absolutely to be encouraged: who wants to battle through crowds to get to a particular sight or restaurant, or even just to walk down the street? Destination dupes, then, are just as trip-worthy as their tried and tested doppelgangers, but you’re more likely to have them to yourself – and, ideally, because they’re off the beaten track, they might not be as expensive. So, why not take a chance on somewhere unexpected, which promises to be every bit as fascinating as the place it’s doubling for?

Boasting medieval market towns, ancient castles and even Roman villas, the Cotswolds, in south-west England, has a rightful reputation as one of the most charming regions in the UK. Chocolate-box-pretty villages come as standard, with the likes of Bourton-on-the-Water, Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold and Castle Combe seducing visitors with their cricket greens, duck ponds, tearooms and antique shops.

Buildings are constructed from honey-hued local stone, which lends them a hallowed, golden glow. But such beauty comes at a cost, meaning that on weekends, bank holidays and half-terms, these small places can get choked with traffic and people, making finding a parking space nigh on impossible, and leading to queues around the block for a cream tea.

Swap these oversubscribed communities for the handsome market town of Tewkesbury, in Gloucestershire, but just outside the boundary of the Cotswolds. Located where the rivers Severn and Avon meet, you’ll notice lots of original black and white half-timbered buildings, many of them listed. You can stroll along historic narrow, winding alleyways, take a walk along the riverbanks, or board a boat for a cruise along the Avon. There’s also a beautiful Norman abbey, dating from the 12th century, a sprawling nature reserve, and a museum that tells the story of the town’s fascinating past. This includes the Battle of Tewkesbury in 1471, a decisive part of the Wars of the Roses. Time your visit for July and you’ll catch the town’s internationally renowned Medieval festival, which has a major re-enactment of this famous scuffle, as well as entertainment, food and music.

Where to stay
Hilton Puckrup Hall, which sits amid 56