Hidden gems take centre stage this National Lottery Open Week

The UK’s love for discovering hidden gems is growing, with more people choosing distinctive, under-the-radar experiences over viral hotspots. At the same time, online conversations around “hidden gems” and “micro adventures” have surged in recent years, reflecting a shift towards authentic, real-life days out that offer something a little different.

The findings, released by The National Lottery to mark National Lottery Open Week 2026, show that although the UK is celebrated worldwide for its iconic cultural landmarks, a quiet travel revolution is happening beyond the main attractions.

People are turning away from viral hotspots in favour of distinctive experiences that offer something a little different; from independent cinemas and quirky museums to secret rooms in Jacobean houses and hidden wartime tunnels.

What is driving this curiosity? Many people are seeking experiences that feel different and more meaningful, from trying something new to enjoying calmer visits and discovering places that feel genuinely authentic.

Against this backdrop, National Lottery Open Week 2026 invites players to uncover hundreds of extraordinary places across the UK. Whether you want to visit local landmarks or discover the small, surprising and often overlooked hidden gems supported by National Lottery funding, there is something for everyone.

Running from 7-15 March, National Lottery Open Week offers free entry, discounted tickets and special access at hundreds of venues across the UK, unlocked with any National Lottery ticket.

From wildlife reserves nurtured through National Lottery funding to grassroots sports clubs, historic houses, community theatres and eccentric treasures tucked away across the country, National Lottery Open Week shines a light on thousands of places made possible by National Lottery players.

National Lottery Open Week ambassador, Joanna Page says:

“The best days out are always the ones you don’t see coming. I can’t wait to get out with my family and really make the most of National Lottery Open Week. Top of my list is a behind the scenes tour of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association regional training centre. It’s a really unique experience to go to a place like that - I know my kids would absolutely love it.

“And because I’m more than ready for spring, I’d also jump at the chance to visit Dyffryn Gardens in Wales to see the daffodils in bloom.

“I’m so excited to be part of National Lottery Open Week this year. For one week only, hundreds of amazing places across the UK throw open their doors - from big names to hidden gems, all made possible because of National Lottery funding. There really is something for everyone, so get involved.”

Joanna shares her top hidden gems available during National Lottery Open Week this year:

Dyffryn Gardens, Vale, Wales: Spring has officially shown up and it’s going all out - daffodils and magnolia trees burst into bloom, and the first splashes of colour appear across the gardens. Don't miss this explosion of colour. Free entry, 7–14 March.

The Hill House, Helensburgh, Scotland: Get up close to a pioneering conservation project, where a dramatic chainmail-clad structure protects Mackintosh’s masterpiece while letting in air, light and even bees. With views of the house and the return of a Charles Rennie Mackintosh desk, design fans, this is your moment. One adult free entry, 7–15 March.

RSPB Saltholme, Middlesbrough: It’s mating season and the Great Crested Grebes are putting on their best dance moves. Try to spot these majestic water birds with free entry, 7–15 March.

Food Museum, Suffolk: School dinners are back - with tasters. Comforting, confusing or mildly traumatic? You decide. Free adult entry, 7–8 March.

Coventry Peace Orchard, Coventry: An incredible orchard with an even more incredible backstory, created by D-Day veteran Dennis Davison. Quiet, moving and worth a wander. Free guided walks, 8 & 15 March.

Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire: Meet Margaret Cavendish, the 17th-century trailblazer now crowned the mother of sci-fi. Radical ideas, no time machine needed at this English Heritage gem. Free entry from 7-15 March, a special tour on 11 March and hands-on, family-friendly activities across both weekends (7-8 and 14-15 March).

Eden Project, Cornwall: Rainforests, Mediterranean vibes and jade-green flowers that glow like something from a sci-fi film. Yes, really. While you’re there, try to spot Eve, the living clay sculpture emerging from the landscape. Free entry for you and a guest, 7–15 March. 

Armagh Observatory & Planetarium: Big telescopes, mind-blowing dome shows and no excuses not to look up. Founded in 1790, it’s also home to one of the world’s longest-running weather records, proof historic science meets cosmic wonder here. Discounted shows & tours, selected dates, 7–15 March.

Harewood House, Leeds: Yorkshire gardens meet Himalayan zen, complete with a Bhutanese-built stupa, a one-of-a-kind feature among UK gardens, symbolising Harewood’s deep connection to its Himalayan influences. Unexpected. Excellent. Discounted adult & child entry, 7–8 & 13–15 March.

Whitchurch Silk Mill: A working silk mill that once supplied Burberry - proof that heritage can still be very chic. Free entry, 7–8 & 10–15 March.

Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England and Chair of the National Lottery Forum said: "We’re thrilled to bring back National Lottery Open Week 2026. This year, we’re inviting everyone to see a National Lottery ticket as more than just a chance to win. It’s a passport to discovery, unlocking joy, opportunity and possibility in communities across the UK.

“From the nation’s most-loved museums and heritage sites to grassroots projects and hidden local gems, every ticket helps create something extraordinary. National Lottery Open Week is our way of saying thank you to the players who make this possible. Because of you, an incredible £32 million is raised each week for good causes, which helps fund vital projects in arts, sport, heritage and communities nationwide. Wherever your interests lie, there’s an experience waiting to be unlocked, and we’re inviting people to follow in Joanna’s footsteps by discovering the hidden gems right on their doorstep. To find out more and start planning your visit, head to the National Lottery Open Week website.”

The full list of venues and offers is available at www.nationallotteryopenweek.com