Less obvious UK destinations?!

[42notTrendy]

We are thinking of a uk break for Oct half term. We've done the well known uk holiday places: Devon, Cornwall, Norfolk, Suffolk, Lakes, Yorkshire, Northumberland and lots of places in Scotland.

What gems are still awaiting us?! What places in the UK warrant a few days exploring with a 7yr old ds?

What about the Kent coast? Broadstairs is lovely and very child friendly. We spent most of the week in the fantastic old-fashioned Italian coffee shop on the front!

I am being drawn to Kent/Sussex by your suggestions. I have never been (apart from driving to Chunnel once years ago). I've also heard that Wye Valley/Forest of Dean is lovely. And also I've never explored that part of the UK.
We don't want to fly as that's why we thought UK, I find flying quite stressful these days so like the idea of throwing everything in the car. Means sacrificing the sun though!