The UK is renowned for its rural landscapes, consisting of rolling hills, sprawling fields and dramatic coastlines. Its quaint hamlets, sleepy villages and secluded farmhouses provide the perfect escape for those wishing to swap the stress and noise of city life for a slower, more relaxed pace.
If you’re considering relocating to a remote part of the UK, you will be spoilt for choice. From the countryside to the coast, there are many rural locations where you can enjoy scenic walks, have a closer connection to nature and be part of a tight-knit community where people look out for one another.
Keep reading to discover five of our favourite remote locations in the UK…
1. Isle of Skye, Scotland
Quaint stone cottage on the Isle of Skye
If you’re a fan of rugged landscapes and mystical charm, look no further than the Isle of Skye in Scotland.
Spanning around 639 square miles, it is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides, boasting dramatic mountain ranges like the Cuillin Hills to impressive landmarks such as the Fairy Pools and the Old Man of Storr.
With trails for all levels, hiking is a popular activity on Skye, and there’s ample opportunity for kayaking, fishing and exploring ancient castles, too.
The Skye Bridge connects the island to mainland Scotland, making it more accessible than the country’s other islands. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that public transport is limited and there are occasional disruptions due to the weather.
Homes on the Isle of Skye range from quaint stone cottages to eco-friendly new builds, many of which offer panoramic views of the sea or mountains.
2. The Lake District, England
A whitewashed cottage in the Lake District countryside
Located in northwest England, the Lake District covers about 912 square miles of rolling hills, sparkling lakes and ‘chocolate box’ villages.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Lake District is a top choice if you love nature and being outdoors. You can explore the fells (hills), sail on famous lakes like Windermere and Ullswater or simply while away the hours in a cosy pub.
Although the Lake District is a remote part of the UK, it is relatively well-connected, with towns like Penrith and Kendal providing easy rail and road access to the UK’s largest cities.
The Lake District is known for its stone cottages and historic homes, many of which are nestled in picturesque valleys.
3. Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales
The pretty fishing village of Tenby, Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire’s rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, medieval castles and pretty seaside villages make it one of the most beautiful parts of the UK.
Rock-climbing, caving and surfing are popular in the area, with simpler activities including wildlife watching and walking along the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
In Pembrokeshire, you have the best of both worlds, as it feels wonderfully remote, but is easily accessible via train to cities like Cardiff and Swansea. You will find life easier if you have a car, though, as local transport can be limited.
Generally, property prices in Pembrokeshire are reasonable compared to remote regions in England – especially in smaller villages.
4. Northumberland, England
Historic stone cottage in Northumberland at dawn
In the northeast of England, you will find Northumberland – an area that’s known for its wide-open moorlands, magnificent castles and vast, unspoilt beaches. Covering roughly 1,936 square miles, the county offers both coastal beauty and inland wilderness.
Northumberland National Park is popular with hikers and cyclists, while the coast is ideal for birdwatching and peaceful strolls along the beach. The county’s most famous landmarks include Hadrian’s Wall, Alnwick Castle and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.
Newcastle-upon-Tyne is the nearest major city, providing fantastic connections via train, plane and boat. But again, in certain rural areas, you may benefit from having your own means of transport.
Compared to southern England, house prices in Northumberland are relatively affordable, with property types ranging from historic stone cottages to new builds.
5. Orkney Islands, Scotland
Coastal houses on South Ronaldsay, Orkney Islands
The Orkney Islands are made up of 70 islands off Scotland’s northern coast, 20 of which are permanently inhabited.
Covering about 382 square miles, Orkney is steeped in history, from Viking settlements to Neolithic ruins like the UNESCO World Heritage site Skara Brae. Aside from visiting historical sites, the Orkney Islands are great for birdwatching and spotting other types of wildlife like killer whales, grey seals and sea otters, as well as admiring views along windswept coastlines and attending community gatherings and festivals.
Orkney is connected to mainland Scotland via ferries and flights, however, bad weather and tides can occasionally disrupt travel.
In Orkney, your new home could be a traditional stone cottage, a renovated farmhouse or an eco-friendly new build. While property is generally affordable, availability may be limited on smaller islands.
Considerations for remote living in the UK
Remote living is an attractive lifestyle choice, however, there are several practical considerations to keep in mind before you make the move:
- Healthcare and services: Access to healthcare can vary. In really remote areas, hospitals may be hours away and some islands rely on air or sea transport for emergencies. It is essential to understand the local healthcare system and register with a doctor as soon as you arrive.
- Supermarkets and supplies: Remote locations often have fewer large supermarkets. Many communities rely on local shops, so you may need to adjust your shopping habits. Alternatively, you might be lucky enough to have home delivery options in your area; if not, and you can’t live without something, you will need to be prepared to travel further.
- Internet connectivity: Reliable internet can also be a challenge in rural or island areas. Before moving, it is wise to research providers in the area, or consider satellite or mobile broadband as alternatives.
- Weather and accessibility: Harsh winters, heavy rainfall and strong tides can make rural areas harder to access. Stocking up on supplies and being prepared for weather-related disruptions is crucial.
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