Ever visited somewhere for the day and been really disappointed?

[Summerhouse2013]

We travelled to Yeovil in Somerset yesterday for the day, wow, we were so disappointed.

It was like a ghost town. Most of the shops were shut, only a handful were open. And towards the bottom area of the town most of the shops were completely closed down.

I'd always got the impression there was a lot more to Yeovil.

We left after an hour as there was nothing to do.

The incredibly beautiful medieval town of Bruges? That Bruges? It's flippin gorgeous!

Tower of London.
We took grandkids there - admittedly over 1/2 term and the thing we thought they'd really like and remember, the crown jewels, had a miles long queue.
We looked at a lot of other things, but didn't make up for the long queues for each.

Longstone Island in the Farne Islands
Lundy Island
Newquay
Nottingham
The Vatican

Another one for Dublin - found it dated and depressing
Amsterdam
New York - we really enjoyed Washington DC
Pisa, Naples and was slightly disappointed with Florence (yes we loved Sienna too and loads of other places in Italy)

Although Niagara Falls is amazing, the towns there are tacky especially on the US side.

I don't think it's just down to what's there and what's open but also the vibe you get and the rudeness v friendliness of people there, how busy generally it is and the weather when you visit

I visited Yeovil about 15 years ago and all I remember was it was almost impossible to walk around without stepping in dog poop! It was everywhere! None of us could believe how much if an issue it was. Forever known as dog poop town now.

I agree, I was a tourist guide 30 years ago for students to visit Bath, I always hated it there, very overrated tbh.

Castle Coombe, bugger all there

Kidzania… wtf is that all about? I didn’t even understand what the kids were supposed to be doing, the staff didnt seem to know either. The kids were all just wandering around looking lost.
Everyone I know who’s taken the kids there loved it.
I found it totally underwhelming 🤷🏼‍♀️🤣.

We had a thoroughly miserable day out at Beamish.
Hated it!

You're right sadly

I Blame the council!

Got rid of a lot of history & buildings surrounding styles wouldn't have been allowed in other areas.
So yes but it used to be....still some interesting stuff but not a unplanned visit

Brighton…dirty, homelessness and extortionate parking fees.

I love Brighton, go there several times a year but it is hideous to drive and park in for sure @dontdillydallytoolong

The isle of wight back in the 80's...... before Sunday shopping was a thing!!! Just a few tourist attractions and that was it. It also rained most of the day 😂😂

We went at half term too and loved it. Didn't bother with the queue for the jewels tho. I thought the displays and information were pitched just right and quite a few hands on bits for the kids

I think we demand more of places we visit than we do of the places we live in/work in. If you don't like museums or modern art then you're not going to enjoy visiting them when you're in a new place either. If you don't like nature/conservation or loads of people then the Eden Project is not for you.

You obviously didn't try a deep-fried Mars Bar.

Scotland - it rained the whole time we were there, it was very grey and the food was awful

This is where research comes into its own. There are strong foodie scenes in Glasgow and Edinburgh and even places like Skye. Lots of good independent cafes and coffee shops, sometimes in very remote locations. Amazing seafood stalls. But you need to kind of know in advance unless you get lucky.

The weather though, yeah.

I start off reading these threads with mild amusement but the more i read the more depressing I find it. Some people should not leave home!

I've travelled a lot. To all sorts of places.. according to the Been App its over 30 countries & about 180 cities & I've found something to appreciate or admire everywhere I've been lucky enough to go.

That list doesn't include the fact I've visited some places many many times (Venice at least 12, Paris about 8 etc) over the years.

It truly baffles me how someone can literally hate the entire city of Paris or Venice or Bruges...!

I think I don't understand what people expect or want when they visit a city..because i don't understand how anyone can make a statement like we couldn't find a single thing to do in Dublin apart from try to enter one small antique shop...! Etc

We do loads of travelling in the country we live in too & love finding favourite spots for coffee or lunch or a drink in various towns & cities.

I agree Old House..
I love nearly every place mentioned on here! Dublin, Edinburgh, Bath, Bristol..Amsterdam etc. The whole thing about visiting places is exploring!
I did mention Oxford upthread, but only because of the boring shops and vibe. There are some beautiful places to see there.
Have to say the worst place, for me, is Weston Super Mare. Just grot! The beach is a mud pit with the sea about 100 miles out!

Completely agree.

@BillyAteMyChips Today 19:22
Scotland - it rained the whole time we were there, it was very grey and the food was awful.

I know, it’s awful, the sun literally never shines here. All grey: people, food, buildings. I’m interested to know which bits you got to on your day trip.

Still amazed at how far people are going on their day trips!

Have you never gone on a day trip while you have been on holiday somewhere?

I’ve had a look for any mention of Shetland, but you’d be hard pushed to make a day trip here. Two nights on the ferry, or take your chances with unreliable Loganair!

I’m not sure my experiences count for this thread cos I can’t make a day trip anywhere. But I did spend two weeks driving around England and Wales last year, and loved Hay on Wye. Dusty bookshops where I found some gems, and lovely little cafes! Also loved Bath, beautiful buildings and nice bookshops, I’d go just for Persephone Books.

I’d also just say that if you live in England or Wales you’re lucky to be able to do any of these towns or cities as a day trip! I’m envious! So envious!

You found Kidzania underwhelming 😂
You were probably at least twenty years too old 🤷🏻‍♀️ Bet you don't particularly enjoy soft play either, it's for kids.

Doesn't matter. Scotland is all one big joined up bit that's basically Mordor with lots of ginger-haired people.

(I am Scottish. I only post this kind of pish for the bants.)