The Telegraph has compiled a list of the 30 best British villages untouched by mass tourism, and at number one is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Yorkshire hidden gem
Tucked away from the relentless crowds which have sucked the charm out of many a Cotswolds village and other tourist-swamped destinations lies a Yorkshire village that has, so far, managed to avoid becoming a major hotspot.
For those yearning for a bit of peace and quiet away from the chaos of city life, a rural village getaway seems like the ideal escape. Yet these days, even the most secluded spots are popping up on travellers' bucket lists, largely thanks to their viral appearances on social media.
In a bid to highlight true tranquillity, the Telegraph has put together a list of what it considers to be the top 30 best British villages – crucially, those that remain 'untouched by mass tourism'. The carefully curated selection spans a wealth of locations scattered across the country's varied regions, with a Yorkshire gem claiming the coveted top spot.
Saltaire Village, nestled on the outskirts of Bradford in West Yorkshire, is regarded as a genuinely stunning British village that, unless you're a local, you've probably never thought to visit – until now. The village takes its name from Sir Titus Salt, who constructed a textile mill, known as Salts Mill, which remains the vibrant heart of the area.
The village is filled with striking buildings, meticulously designed by architects Lockwood and Mawson, boasting Italianate features steeped in rich history. To safeguard this remarkable heritage, it was awarded World Heritage Site status by UNESCO in 2001 and remains protected to this day.
Saltaire remains a living, breathing village, so there's no need to book ahead — you can simply stroll the streets just like a local. Packed into this delightful space are shops, restaurants and parks, while the iconic Salts Mill is completely free to visit.
One visitor shared their thoughts on Tripadvisor, writing: "Hidden gem. Lucky to have worked in the area for many, many years (NHS). Great cafes/bars/walks/places of interest, definitely! Everyone should visit at some stage."
Salts Mill remains the beating heart of the village, spanning several floors with a wealth of attractions to discover. On the ground floor sits the 1853 Gallery, which houses the world's largest permanent collection of work by Bradford-born artist David Hockney.
Visitors can head up to the second floor to browse the wonderful Salts Book and Poster Shop, which stocks an impressive range of items, before stopping off at Salts Diner, which is open daily from 10:00am.
The remaining floors are home to Gallery Three, featuring The Arrival of Spring by David Hockney, as well as a café in the Opera, where light bites and lunches are served amid a striking mural by David Hockney.
Just across the River Aire lies the stunning Roberts Park. This expansive Victorian park is brimming with lush green spaces, cricket pitches and picturesque pathways, perfect for a leisurely walk while soaking up the remarkable architecture.
A leisurely 10-minute walk along the towpath leads you to a striking seven-arch aqueduct, which carries the Leeds and Liverpool Canal over the River Aire.
Getting to this charming piece of British history, nestled within a stunning setting, couldn't be easier, as you can hop on a train directly to the site. Saltaire boasts its very own railway station on the Airedale Line, with regular services running direct from both nearby Bradford city centre and Leeds.