best cities to visit in uk 2020

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Lady’s 25 Best Cities in England

Today I want to share my guide to the best cities in England with you. From the capital to the smaller urban centers, they’re some of the top places to visit in the UK .

Best Cities in England

These English cities have all won my heart with their beauty, history, or unique charm. From stunning cathedrals to secret passageways, universities to beaches, every one of the places on this list has something special about it.

I’ve visited all of these cities, so can personally attest to how much they have going for them. If you get a chance to go, I hope you’ll agree.

I couldn’t write about the best cities in England without starting with London . The UK capital is one of the most exciting and diverse cities in the world.

With a great mix of historic and contemporary, big attractions and secret places , London has something for everyone. Add to that great restaurants, markets, and nightlife, and it’s hard to beat.

When it comes to history and aesthetics, Chester is one of the best cities in England. With Roman walls, medieval churches, and a half-timbered high street, every inch of Chester is picture pretty.

Add to that charming side streets, colorful doors, and an amazing cathedral, and Chester is one of the most beautiful places in England .

Next on my list of the best cities in England is Bath . With beautiful Georgian architecture and golden Cotswold stone buildings, it’s one of the prettiest places in the UK.

The city also has ancient Roman baths, Jane Austen sites , and great independent shops and restaurants. Bath is hard to beat when it comes to English cities.

4. Cambridge

As far as university cities go, Cambridge tops my list. The heritage buildings and bucolic river scenery make Cambridge one of the best cities in England.

I can’t get enough of the Gothic chapel interiors, riverside pubs, and colleges in Cambridge. Being here is like stepping into a painting.

Up north, Durham is another university city that deserves a place on my list of the best cities in England.

Durham is worth a trip for its cobblestone streets, impressive cathedral, and historic castle. Rich in history, the side streets around the university are great places to get a glimpse into Britain’s past.

Back down south, Oxford is another university city in England that deserves a place on my list. The colleges in Oxford have gorgeous heritage architecture and the city is rife with historic pubs, museums, and markets.

Oxford is famous for its Harry Potter and Alice in Wonderland connections, too. It’s fun to visit and discover the filming locations from the former and the places that inspired the latter.

7. Canterbury

When it comes to cathedral cities, Canterbury is hard to beat. It’s one of the best cities in England for its mix of religious importance and charming atmosphere.

Canterbury Cathedral is one of the oldest and most important Christian buildings in England, and has layers of history and beauty to discover.

Canterbury also has an abundance of historic streets with chocolate-box atmosphere. There are narrow lanes with shops dotted throughout the city center, and they’re worth taking the time to explore.

8. Winchester

Speaking of cathedral cities, Winchester is another of my favorites. Winchester Cathedral is not only stunning to see, but also the burial place of Jane Austen.

But it’s not just the cathedral in Winchester. This city in Hampshire is home to a peaceful river walk, secret gardens, and heritage architecture galore.

The Round Table of King Arthur fame is here, as are a stunning medieval almshouse and the haunting ruins of an old bishop’s palace.

Up north, York is another city with an important cathedral. But there’s a lot more this place than York Minster. It’s one of the best cities in England for its old-world charm.

From the medieval city walls to the passages and Snickelways, there’s something beautiful around every corner in York.

Add to that a river, a lot of great shops, and a castle, and York is a real treat. The annual York Christmas markets are worth a special trip, too.

10. Newcastle

Not far from York, Newcastle is another of the best cities in England. From Grey Street, which was once voted the finest street in Britain by BBC Radio 4 listeners, to contemporary art museums like BALTIC, Newcastle has a good mix of historic and contemporary.

And that’s to say nothing of the bridges, which span both the River Tyne and the centuries. Then come Newcastle’s pubs, many of which have stunning historic interiors and lively atmospheres. The nightlife is legendary, too.

Gateshead Millennium Bridge in Newcastle, England

11. Birmingham

In the Midlands, Birmingham has everything from centuries-old pubs to colorful creative districts.

Its contemporary library gets my inner architecture (and book) lover excited every time, and I love the pre-Raphaelite masterpieces in the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.

The city first won me over when I visited for the famous Birmingham Christmas markets . Since then, it’s lured me back to see its beautiful historic buildings, shopping arcades, canals, and streets.

12. Brighton

On the south coast in East Sussex, Brighton is one of the best cities in England when it comes to seaside appeal.

With its pebble shoreline and pleasure pier, it’s the quintessential British beach city. But there’s more than just sun and fun here (and this being England, “sun” can be a relative term).

The Royal Pavilion is a whimsical 18th-century pleasure palace with opulent interiors, and the shops in The Lanes and North Laine are great for retail therapy. Brighton’s nightlife scene is one of the best in the UK, too.

Out in Somerset, Wells often gets overlooked, but this tiny gem deserves a place on my list of the best cities in England. This is not least because Wells is home to a huge cathedral and lots of charming streets.

Wandering along the high street in Wells and taking in the little lanes is fun. Vicars’ Close is one of the most beautiful streets in England, what with its stunning rows of original 14th-century residential buildings.

Back up north in Yorkshire, Leeds is another of the most exciting cities in England. From Victorian shopping arcades like the County Arcade to art galleries and museums like the Henry Moore Institute, there’s a lot to see and do here.

I could spend ages exploring the streets, ducking down alleys, and taking in the cultural treasures at the Leeds Art Gallery. But this city is really known for its shopping, and institutions like Harvey Nichols attest to it.

15. Norwich

Over in Norfolk, Norwich is one of the best cities in England for its mix of cathedral, market square, hilltop castle, and pretty streets. They all combine to make it easy on the eyes and alluring to the camera.

Norwich Cathedral is the most complete Norman cathedral in England and one of the best examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe.

Elm Hill is replete with Tudor buildings, and Norwich Market is one of the oldest and largest outdoor markets in Britain. Add to that bright pink and orange houses, and there’s a lot to love about this city.

16. Nottingham

When it comes to legendary places, Nottingham is one of my favorite cities in Britain. From castles to pubs, old English streets to secret lanes, Nottingham has everything I look for in one urban center.

With the Robin Hood legend, great shopping, and one of the oldest pubs in England—you have to see the Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem— it’s hard to find a more exciting city to discover in England.

17. Leicester

Nobody ever believes me when I say Leicester is one of the best cities in England. But this is one of the most underrated cities in Britain , and my first visit impressed me so much that I went back for a second.

Leicester has ancient Roman ruins, a 900-year-old cathedral built on the site of a Roman temple, and a Richard III museum that follows the miraculous story of the discovery of the king’s remains.

As if that’s not enough, it has a museum with a world-class Arts and Crafts Movement collection and a city center bursting with beautiful historic buildings. It’s worth a visit.

18. Liverpool

Liverpool is another underrated city that deserves a special trip. A historic maritime center where the River Mersey meets the Irish Sea, Liverpool has reinvented itself in recent years.

The home of The Beatles, it’s one of the best cities in England for its cultural heritage and attractions. It has great museums like Tate Liverpool, which sits in the historic-meets-contemporary Albert Dock area.

Bars like The Cavern Club, the birthplace of The Beatles, are great for live music, too.

19. Manchester

Not far from Liverpool, Manchester is another of the best cities in England. There are great restaurants, shops, and nightlife venues in Manchester, and beautiful streets to explore.

The Castlefield neighborhood’s 18th-century canal system is a great place to take in Manchester’s textile history.

The Salford Quays dockyards are home to the Daniel Libeskind-designed Imperial War Museum North and The Lowry arts center, too.

20. Bristol

Back down south, Bristol is one of the best cities in England for its independent spirit and riverside attractions.

The Harbourside area is home to the contemporary M Shed museum, which explores the city’s social and industrial heritage.

Converted 19th-century waterfront warehouses shelter lively restaurants, shops, and art galleries, and Clifton is rife with Georgian townhouses, beautiful crescents, and the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Back to cathedral cities , under-the-radar Ely is one of my favorite cities in England for its magnificent cathedral, bucolic riverfront, and rich history.

Ely Cathedral traces its origins back to 672. Its historic interiors are stunning, and its exterior can be seen from all over the surrounding area in Cambridgeshire.

Outside the cathedral, Ely is brimming with pretty streets, great shops, and bustling markets.

Out in Devon, Exeter is another cathedral number that deserves a place on my list of the best cities in England. Exeter Cathedral dates back nearly 1,000 years and is one of the oldest and most beautiful of its kind in the UK.

Beyond the cathedral, Exeter is home to ancient Roman walls, pretty Georgian streets, a castle, and a system of vaulted medieval subterranean passageways visitors can explore.

23. St Albans

So close to London it’s practically in walking distance, St Albans is one of the best cities in England for its ancient Roman history and historic cathedral.

St Albans has an impressive array of Roman ruins, from a wall to a theater. The Verulamium Museum is a great place to explore the remains of the ancient Roman town in Verulamium Park, too.

There are a lot of other things to do in St Albans , too. The city has bustling street markets and farmers’ markets. Timing a day trip to coincide with them is a good way to take in the local scene.

24. Lincoln

Also home to a stunning cathedral, Lincoln is replete with chocolate-box streets, a Norman castle, and lots of shops and cafes.

This is one of the best cities in England for history lovers. From streets dripping with heritage details to a medieval cathedral and a castle with an original 1215 Magna Carta, Lincoln has a lot to take in.

25. City of London

I’ll end my list of the best cities in England where I started. I’ve always loved the UK capital’s history, and the fact that the historic heart of London is its own city has always fascinated me.

The City of London is not only home to big London landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral, but also little passageways and historic pubs with warrens of wood-paneled rooms. It offers a great mix of everything I love about the city I call home.

Cities in England

My list could go on, but I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about these cities and that you get a chance to visit them all someday. They’re really some of the best cities in England. And the world, for that matter.

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6 Comments on Lady’s 25 Best Cities in England

Hoping to visit England, Wales and Scotland in the next couple of years, so this information is excellent. Thank you.

You’re welcome!

Definitely some of the best cities of England to travel to. But Oxford is my favorite. Which of these cities is your favorite?

I couldn’t possibly choose! There are so many great cities in England.

I´m from Brazil, and i´m dreamming with the idea to finally know England. I hope use this post to guide me when it happens. Thank you for sharing all this experiences. 🙂

You’re welcome! I’m so glad to hear that.

15 Absolute Best Cities to Visit in the UK (+Map & Travel Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

15 Absolute Best Cities to Visit in the UK (+Map & Travel Tips)

The United Kingdom’s rich and vibrant culture make its cities among the most fascinating to visit in the world. Whether you’re looking for stunning architecture, world-class museums, or the cool vibe of contemporary art and music, you’ll find it all in the best UK cities.

However, with so many great cities throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (the four countries of the UK) it can be difficult to decide which ones to visit in a limited amount of time.

So in this guide, we list the very best cities to visit in the UK that are worth your time the most . For each city, we include the main attractions that you simply must see. We also listed a few extras that are well worth visiting if you have enough time. For each town, we also indicate how much time you need for a visit.

Good to know: The great thing about visiting the UK is its small size and good transport links. This makes it quite easy to travel from one part of the country to another. Furthermore, quite a few of these cities can also be visited with organized tours from London (or other nearby towns). So if you plan well, you can visit several of these UK towns in one trip.

To help you plan your trip and see several of the nicest cities and towns in Great Britain, we asked our writer Christine, a UK local, to share the best places and tips for your visit. We also created a map indicating each town. That way, you have a better idea of where everything is and can plan your trip accordingly. Take a look!

How to use this map: Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

These are the most beautiful cities in the UK that are worth a visit the most:

London really has to be number one on any list of the best places in the UK! And there are so many reasons to visit the nation’s capital. Located on the banks of the River Thames, London is the country’s financial center, the seat of the Government of the United Kingdom, and home to the Royal Family.

All of this is reflected in its magnificent and historic architecture and a huge variety of things to see and do.

The diversity of London’s population is evident in its wonderful food scene. From traditional British food in local pubs, the finest cuisine in world-famous restaurants, to the ethnic street food in its many markets, London has it all. London also offers some of the very best shopping in the world. You’ll find designer stores, vintage boutiques, eclectic craft fairs, and quirky markets all over the city.

If you want to escape the bustling streets, museums, and galleries, London has some very beautiful and tranquil green spaces too. Don’t miss the scenic Hyde Park! If you have more time, visit the lesser-known Kew Gardens, with its stunning collection of tropical flora and fauna. London is truly a city that offers something for everyone.

Must see: The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace (don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ), Westminster (including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament), Tower Bridge, the London Eye , the British Museum, St Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square (home to Nelson’s Column), and Piccadilly Circus. Thames Cruise is also a must.

Nice to see: Greenwich , Hyde Park, Covent Garden, Kew Gardens, Borough Market, Camden Town & Camden Lock Market , National Gallery, Harrods, and Oxford Street. If you are visiting London with kids , don’t miss Madame Tussauds , the Natural History Museum, Leicester Square stores, and the Royal Mews. Also, don’t miss at least some of the best views in London !

How much time do you need. You can quickly see the major sites with just one day in London . However, if you want to be able to visit a few places inside and get a good feeling of the city you really need two days in London . To fully appreciate all of London’s major sights, visit a few of them inside, and check out a few different neighborhoods, you will need at least 3 to 4 days.

If you want to experience the diversity of attractions across the city, discover some of London’s hidden gems , or take a day tour to Windsor Castle or a day trip to other popular places near London , you can easily spend a week or even more.

Where to stay: Best areas to stay in London for first time .

Travel tips: Please see London travel tips for more information for planning your trip.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in London (Must-See!)

2. Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh is truly a tale of two cities! It has a New Town – packed with modern shops and trendy eateries – on one side, and a historic Old Town on the other.

The imposing Edinburgh Castle – one of Europe’s oldest fortified places – overlooks the entire city. Surrounding it are rolling green hills which often draw a comparison with Rome. Indeed Italy’s capital, like Edinburgh, was said to have been built on seven hills. Its neoclassical architecture, along with its reputation for philosophy and learning, have earned Edinburgh the nickname of the ‘Athens of the North’.

Edinburgh has a rich history, awesome views, incredible green spaces, and several world-class museums and galleries. In contrast, it also has an intriguingly dark past that you can learn more about by exploring its creepy kirkyards (churchyards) and a fascinating underground street that shows you just what life used to be like in the city.

Scotland’s capital is also known for its many festivals, including the world-famous Hogmanay at New Year.

Edinburgh - one of the most beautiful cities in the UK

Must see: Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat (for the views), the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, National Museum of Scotland, and Royal Yacht Britannia.

Nice to see: Royal Botanic Gardens, St Giles’ Cathedral, Princes Street Gardens, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions (nice views of the city), Scottish National Gallery, The Real Mary King’s Close.

How much time do you need. Given the city’s relatively small size, it’s possible to see the main sights of Edinburgh in 1 day , but it would be quite a rush. We recommend 2-3 days to take in and fully appreciate everything the city has to offer.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

3. Cambridge

Cambridge is probably best known for its University (the world’s 4th oldest surviving university). Which is home to more winners of the Nobel prize than any other university in the UK.

Cambridge is also a beautiful town, with lots of well-preserved historic buildings that are mostly centered around its 31 (!) colleges. Cambridge has some world-famous Alumni too. 14 British Prime Ministers studied here, world-famous physicist Stephen Hawking, and many others who have made a real impact on the world.

A must-do in Cambridge is taking a punt tour along the beautiful River Cam. Punt is a traditional flat bottomed boat and a very typical thing to do here. The river runs through the heart of the city offering great views of the ancient architecture of the city.

Being a student town, this medieval city still has a very modern vibe too. So there’s plenty of music, festivals, and a strong performing arts scene. There are several art galleries exhibiting everything from the classics to contemporary works. And you’ll find some lovely, quirky shops to buy souvenirs.

Must see: King’s College Chapel, Queen’s College and the Mathematical Bridge (built without nails), Trinity College (and other collages if you have more time), Fitzwilliam Museum, Great St Mary’s Church (climb to the top of the tower for incredible city views), the River Cam and punting tours .

Nice to see: The Botanic Garden, Angelsey Abbey, Wren Library (the Trinity College Library where you can see Newton’s “Principia Mathematica”; it’s only open between noon and 2 pm on weekdays, and Saturday morning), the Round Church, the Bridge of Sighs, The Backs (behind the colleges).

How much time do you need. You can see much of Cambridge within one full day, and it’s also possible to visit with a tour from the capital . But to give yourself time to browse the main museum and to go punting along the River Cam, it’s worth planning two days for your visit.

Of all the cities in the UK, the wonderful, walled city of York boasts the most attractions per square mile. Although it has all the modern shops and amenities you’d expect from a major UK city, the main appeal of York is in fascinating history.

As you wander the cobbled, medieval streets – some with beautifully preserved buildings from the 14th and 15th centuries – you can also see hints of its Roman roots and signs of Viking influence.

Among its many attractions, York has 30 museums, the UK’s best racecourse, and festivals on an almost monthly basis.

The city’s Cathedral – York Minster – is one of the largest in Europe. You can enjoy some incredible views of the city from the top. You can also view the city from the water by taking a boat trip along River Ouse or on Foss River. Another fun thing to do is learn about the history of chocolate-making at the place where the famous UK confectioners Terry’s and Rowntree were founded.

Must see: York Minster (formally known as the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter in York), the 14th century City Walls (you can walk along the top), National Railway Museum, the Shambles (one of the world’s best-preserved medieval streets), views along the River Ouse and river cruises .

Nice to see: York Maze, York Castle Museum, Castle Howard, York’s Chocolate Story, Clifford’s Tower (great views), York Racecourse.

How much time do you need. You can see the highlights of York in a day, but we recommend 2 full days to see things at a more leisurely pace. If you want to also explore the Yorkshire region, plan a few days extra. See the best suggestions for places to see via the link below.

8. Liverpool

Liverpool’s main claim to fame is as the birthplace of the Beatles. If you’re a fan, it’s a great place to visit the city where the band started and drew their inspiration. But there’s so much more to this city that makes it a fantastic place for anyone!

Liverpool is located on the River Mersey. One of the nicest things to do is walk around the docks, which are teeming with cool boutiques, fantastic eateries, and lively bars. The streets of the modern city center are filled with shoppers and street entertainers. But there is lots of history and culture to explore too, with more museums and galleries than you’ll find anywhere else outside London.

Liverpool really comes alive at night! So make sure to stay the night. Dine at one of the many fine restaurants, ending the evening with live music at the iconic Cavern Club. This is the venue at which the Beatles performed nearly 300 times.

READ ALSO: The Beatles in Liverpool (Best Places to See)

Must see: The Cavern Club, the Beatles Story , the Royal Albert Dock, World Museum, Liverpool Cathedral, Mersey River Cruises .

Nice to see: Tate Liverpool, Anfield Stadium , Sefton Park, Western Approaches WWII Museum , Liverpool Library, British Music Experience , Museum of Liverpool, Strawberry Field , and the views from Royal Liver Building 360 .

How much time do you need. You will need 1-2 days to see Liverpool’s main sights. If you are a Beatles fan and want to be sure to see all the Beatles-related exhibitions and tours, then you may even need 3 days in the city.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & How to visit Liverpool from London (travel info & 1-day itinerary)

Oxford is best known for its university which was established in the 12th century. It’s one of the oldest and most famous universities in the world, and so many of the city’s attractions are related to it.

There are 38 separate college buildings and their architecture is incredible! You should definitely see the Christ Church with its impressive Hall (Harry Potter fans will instantly recognize it!) and Cathedral. The gardens of this cathedral are said to have inspired Lewis Carroll’s ‘Alice in Wonderland’.

This beautiful English city was also used as a filming location for some scenes in the Harry Potter movies. While you can probably spot a few of them on your own, fans should really consider a walking tour of the filming locations .

Oxford also has a few interesting museums, a nice riverside ( sightseeing cruises are available), and even its own ‘Bridge of Sighs’, Hertford Bridge. It connects two parts of Hertford College allowing students and professors to quicker travel between different parts of the university.

Oxford - one of the nicest towns in the UK

Must see: Oxford University with the Bodleian Library and some of the oldest colleges (Christ Church College, All Souls College, Magdalen College, Keble College), Radcliffe Camera, Ashmolean Museum, and Hertford Bridge.

Nice to see: Oxford University Museum of Natural History, University Church, Sheldonian Theater, Oxford Castle and Prison, The Pett Rivers Museum. Boat trips are also nice to do, especially in the warmest months.

How much time do you need. You can see many of the main landmarks in Oxford in half a day to a day. With two days, you should be able to cover most of the best attractions in Oxford.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Tips for Traveling to Europe

The Hall at Oxford Christ Church College.

10. Cardiff

The Welsh capital, Cardiff is quite small in size. It only takes about 15 minutes to cycle from one side to the other. But it has a lot to offer its visitors! With a 2000-year-old castle and more green space per capita than any other UK city, it offers lots of opportunities for scenic strolls. Make sure to explore the banks of the River Taff which runs through its beautiful Bute Park.

Just outside the city center is Cardiff Bay. Here, you can visit the seat of the Welsh Government or enjoy everything from cultural attractions to boat trips. Cardiff is a quirky, vibrant, and creative city with numerous music and arts venues and an up and coming culinary scene.

Cardiff is also known to sports fans for its world-famous stadium, the home of Welsh rugby, and the venue for Britain’s Speedway Grand Prix. You can enjoy a meal and a drink at a sports bar and restaurant Elevens Bar And Grill, which is owned by professional footballer Gareth Bale.

Cardiff Wales - one of the best cities in the UK

Must see: Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Bay, Principality Stadium, St Fagans National Museum of History, National Museum, Wales Millenium Centre.

Nice to see: Bute Park, Roath Park, Castell Coch, Cardiff International White Water Centre, the Senedd (the main building for the National Assembly of Wales), Spillers Records (the oldest record shop in the world). Doctor Who tours (popular TV series filming locations) are also very popular.

How much time do you need. Because of Cardiff’s compact size, you can see the best of its attractions in 1-2 days. But there is much worth exploring on its outskirts. So you might want to give yourself an extra day to venture outside the city center.

Pierhead and Wales Millennium Centre at Cardiff pier

11. Nottingham

Nottingham is another really nice city that’s worth your time when touring the UK! This city’s imposing, wide streets and scenic parks have earned it the nickname of the ‘Queen of the Midlands’. However, to most of us, Nottingham will always be the home of the legendary outlaw Robin Hood!

Boasting its own castle, a magnificent cathedral, a network of underground caves, and the vibrant Lace Market – teeming with independent cafes, restaurants, and bars – Nottingham is a city with something for everyone.

Yet just minutes away from its center you can enjoy the serenity and beauty of its green spaces. You can also venture a little further into the enormous Sherwood Forest, home to Robin Hood and his Merry Men.

Must see: Nottingham Castle , Wollaton Hall and Park, City of Caves, Old Market Square (Slab Square), Robin Hood Way & the Sherwood Forest.

Nice to see: National Justice Museum, the Arboretum, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem (believed to be England’s oldest pub), Nottingham Contemporary Art Gallery, Highfields Park, D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum.

How much time do you need. You can see most of Nottingham’s main sights in one full day. For a more relaxed experience (especially if you plan to include a trip out to Sherwood Forest), plan two days for your visit.

Nottingham Old Market Square and City Council

12. Manchester

Probably best known for its Premier League football teams, Manchester has a lot more going on than football! Located in the northwest of England, the city has a rich industrial past, but nowadays, you’ll find a vibrant place where history and modern-day life go hand in hand.

Manchester is a lively city with a warm atmosphere and plenty to see and do to suit all interests. You’ll find some world-class museums, beautiful architecture, great dining and shopping, and lots of fun activities for young and old.

Be sure to explore the city center and visit some of its historic landmarks! Manchester Cathedral is an absolute must-see, just as John Rylands Library. For contemporary architecture, head to the Quays, where you’ll find the impressive Imperial War Museum North and The Lowry cultural center. River cruises are a great way to explore this part of town as well!

It would be unthinkable to visit Manchester and not check out at least one of its major football stadiums – Old Trafford, home to Manchester United F.C. or Etihad Stadium, home to Manchester City F.C. In addition, the city is also home to the National Football Museum, the largest football museum in the world.

Must see: City center, Manchester Cathedral, one of the football stadiums , John Rylands Library, and Science and Industry Museum.

Nice to see: National Football Museum , Imperial War Museum North, Salford Quays, river cruises , People’s History Museum, Manchester Art Gallery, and Castlefield conservation area.

How much time do you need. It’s possible to see the main sights of Manchester in a day , but you won’t be able to explore much deeper. If you want to visit a few museums and do some shopping as well, you could easily spend 2-3 days here.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Manchester

Manchester Castlefield conservation area

13. Norwich

Norwich is a historic city in the heart of rural East Anglia. It was medieval England’s largest walled town. Because of its isolated location, Norwich was virtually bypassed by the Industrial Revolution. So the town has retained many of its medieval Churches and Tudor architecture. All this makes it a truly fascinating place to visit!

A UNESCO City of Literature, Norwich is also the only city in England to be located in a national park (the Norfolk Broads). It boasts a beautiful nature reserve with a river running through the city and an impressive Romanesque cathedral with scenic, peaceful grounds.

Thatched buildings and brightly colored merchant’s houses are just some of the historic sights that give the city its unique and ancient character. You’ll also find cozy pubs dotted everywhere, serving the finest craft beers and ales.

Must see: Norwich Cathedral, Norwich Castle, Norwich Market. Norwich Quayside. Outside the city – Blickling Estate.

Nice to see: The Forum, Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Plantation Garden, Strangers Hall, City of Norwich Aviation Museum, Norwich Guildhall.

How much time do you need. You can see the main sights of Norwich in one day.

14. Bristol

Bristol in the southwest of England is one of the country’s coolest cities. The home town of famed UK street artist Banksy has a strong reputation for creativity. Ultra-modern museums and trendy restaurants make it a fun and lively place to visit, particularly around the port and harbor area which is full of bars and cafes.

But the city has an interesting history, too, with stunning ancient churches, a cathedral, and galleries. Perhaps most fascinating of all is Bristol’s seafaring links. It was the birthplace of the notorious pirate Blackbeard and inspired parts of the famous maritime novels Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe.

There are some lovely green spaces to explore in the city. Or you can choose to get away from the crowds by taking a boat trip along the River Avon. from the water, you can admire the unusually brightly colored buildings and houses that overlook it.

Statue of Ram Mohan Roy and Bristol Cathedral in the UK

Must see: Bristol Cathedral, Waterfront, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, Clifton Suspension Bridge (looks great at night too), SS Great Britain, Brandon Hill Park & Cabot Tower (great views from the top).

Nice to see: St Mary Redcliffe church, Bristol Zoo Gardens (the 5th oldest zoo in the world), At-Bristol Science Centre, Queen Square. Also, Avon Valley Railway and Blaise Castle Estate (outside the city).

How much time do you need. Bristol is a relatively small city but has lots to see and do. You can cover the highlights in a day, but you need at least 2 days to enjoy it properly.

15. Brighton

The coastal city of Brighton is one of the UK’s most diverse places to visit. It offers everything from vintage seaside attractions to Bohemian markets and Victorian architecture. The city has Britain’s biggest gay scene and some of the best independent shops and boutiques, largely concentrated around the iconic Lanes.

Its pier – packed with rides and entertainment – is one of the biggest attractions in the southeast of England. Brighton even has an exotic palace, Royal Pavilion, that would look more at home in India or China than on the UK’s south coast!

Brighton is also a great UK city for foodies. You’ll find everything from traditional British fish & chips to the finest cuisine at gourmet restaurants. There are lots of bars and eateries lining the pebbled beach, which immediately gives you a vacation feel.

You are never far away from the raw beauty of nature either. Brighton is perfectly positioned to enjoy stunning walks along the England Coast Path. Be sure to visit the white cliffs of Seven Sisters and South Downs nearby!

Must see: Brighton Palace Pier, Brighton Royal Pavilion and Gardens, Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, British Airways i360 Viewing Tower, The Lanes, North Laine.

Nice to see: Regency Square, Brighton Marina, Brighton Toy and Model Museum, Brighton Beach and Promenade, Old Steine Gardens, Brighton Festival (3 weeks every May).

How much time do you need. You will definitely need at least 3 days in Brighton. There is so much to do in Brighton that you could easily spend 5 days in the city, especially in summer.

So, this is our guide to the best, most beautiful cities in the UK.

As you can see, there’s so much more to the UK than just its cities! But even if you visit just a few of these, you’ll get to know a very different country than just by visiting London!

TIP: If you are looking for a more ‘local’ city/ beach holiday in the UK, check out Blackpool . It’s one of the most popular seaside resorts in the UK! Here you can learn all about what there is to see and do in Blackpool . Check it out!

More travel tips and inspiration for all over the UK:

Must-see in London: Top London Attractions
Different London : Hidden Gems of London & Best Views in London
Good to know: London Travel Tips & Best Areas to Stay in London
With kids: London with Kids & Family Afternoon Tea in London
Greenwich: Best Things to Do in Greenwich
Cornwall: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall
Yorkshire: Yorkshire Day Trips
Blackpool: Best Things to Do in Blackpool & Tips for Visiting Blackpool & Best Day Trips from Blackpool
Scotland: Isle of Skye & Scotland Whisky Tour
Edinburgh: Top Edinburgh Attractions & One Day in Edinburgh
Glasgow: One Day in Glasgow

READ ALSO: Traditional British Food & Where to Try It in the UK

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Photos: Personal collection and Depositphotos.com. Additional credits: Featured image: TTstudio/Shutterstock.com// Cardiff Bay – photo by phil_bird/Depositphotos.com// Belfast Titanic – photo by zhuzhu/Depositphotos.com// Beatles – gianliguori/Depositphotos.com// Cambridge Bridge of Sighs – chrisdorney/Depositphotos.com// Cambridge University – Umdash9/Depositphotos.com// Manchester Castlefield – cowardlion /Depositphotos.com//.

Best cities to visit in the United Kingdom

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Thursday 21st of September 2023

Go to Southampton if you want to see nice cruiseships and the New Forest is very close too.

Tuesday 1st of August 2023

Thank you for sharing useful information ...

Saturday 5th of August 2023

Glad to help. Have a great trip!

Saturday 11th of February 2023

I can't believe Birmingham is not on the list, it's the most underrated city in the UK, perhaps it's because once the heart of the Indudtrial Revolution the slums of back to back houses were there until the 1970's, and its maze of run down underground canals. Most canals have now been restored with many nice bars and restaurants on the side of the canals, in and outside the City. It's a compact City Centre that is easy to walk around. The Art Gallery is one of the best I have ever been in, and each time I'm in the City I can't resist going in there, and it is free to go around, unlike in Venice where you have to pay and is nowhere near as interesting as Brums Art Gallery. For those who like to shop it is a City Centre renown for its Bull Ring Shopping Centre. Eating and enjoying Asian food, there is no-where better in Europe. But go and see the City for yourself. The only thing is traveling into the City by train looks awful, but don't judge the book by its cover. Brum has everything, and is a multi cultural City. I live in Spain these days but my heart is in Birmingham, and it's surroundings Remember Stratford upon Avon is only 20 miles away. 👍👍

Sunday 12th of February 2023

Thanks for your suggestions and tips. I'm sure it can be helpful for some of our readers who are looking for even more cities to explore in the UK. Happy travels!

Jessica Fletcher

Sunday 22nd of January 2023

London does not belong on any list of good cities, end of story. Miserable people, ugly buildings, expensive, nothing worthwhile to see except contrived tourist fodder and obscene wealth. One of the worst cities I've ever been to and I've been to most of the major towns and cities in the UK. Otherwise a great list! Glasgow is one that surprised me a lot, considering its bad reputation but it was surprisingly beautiful and the people were very friendly and down to Earth.

@Jessica Fletcher, Jessica you need to use the underground and look around different parts of the City. London is steeped in history and has something for all tastes..Dont be put off by being expensive. There are a lot of reasonably priced places just be adventurous and seek them out. Including places to stay.

Friday 10th of February 2023

@Jurga, now you know second person 😅 as I just hate London, anytime I have to go there it is a nightmare for me.

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Wow, that's a strong opinion about London, Jessica. You are literally the first person I ever 'met' who doesn't like London. I guess that just proves that everyone is different and likes different things. And that's ok. We all have our experiences and our opinions. For us, London is one of the most interesting cities in the world. No matter how many times we go back, there's always something new and exciting to discover, and so many amazing places everywhere you look. Perhaps you should give London a second chance and look beyond the main tourist attractions... We have a 'hidden gems' guide with some suggestions ;). Happy travels!

Friday 13th of January 2023

cardiff and Oxford do not deserve to be in that list, no where near as good as the others!

Sunday 15th of January 2023

Ha ha, we literally just added Oxford to this list because quite a few people thought it deserved a mention. :) And many of our American readers absolutely love it as a day trip from London too. I guess everybody has their own opinion and I'm sure our readers can make their own decisions on which places look the most interesting to them. Happy travels!

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

14 Best Cities to Visit in England

England is a richly historic country, and one that is packed with fascinating destinations. From the mystery of ancient Stonehenge to the modern architecture along the Thames River, England has a wide range of appeal to visitors from around the world.

To make the most of a trip to England, don’t spend all your time in a single destination. Be sure to explore as many of the best cities to visit in England as your itinerary and travel plans will allow.

14. Cambridge

There is no question that the main attraction in the city of Cambridge is the University of Cambridge, a campus with hundreds of years of history. The university is made up of several colleges, some of the most famous of which include King’s College, Queen’s College and Trinity College.

Perhaps the best way to see Cambridge is just to stroll through the campus architecture, peeking into halls and admiring the Backs, a park located on the banks of the river.

Just as Cambridge is known for its university, so too is Oxford. Since Oxford University was established in the 12th century, however, its provenance dates even further back, making it the oldest English-speaking campus in the world.

If you only get the chance to see one building in Oxford , make it the breathtaking Bodleian Library. Established in 1601, the library is home to more than 11 million volumes. Film buffs will appreciate that it has served as the backdrop for countless movies, including several from the Harry Potter series.

12. Brighton

Brighton is another historic university town in England, but it is best known for its location on the coast and its fantastic beaches. Since it is just an hour from London by train, it is a popular day trip destination as well as a beloved summer getaway spot.

When you visit, take time to explore the iconic Palace Pier, which is a boardwalk stretching along the beach. The Palace Pier is where you’ll find rides, attractions and vendors selling everything from ice cream cones to fish and chips.

11. Manchester

Manchester is one of the biggest cities in England, and it is sometimes known as the Capital of the North. While certainly not as large or as busy as London, Manchester does give the capital city a good run for its money.

Architecture fans may want to check out the impressive Manchester Cathedral, located in the Millennium Quarter, which also boasts a visitor’s center and guided tours. For some international cuisine, head to Manchester’s Chinatown and dig into some tasty Cantonese and Mandarin fare.

As the name implies, Bath is a spa town. This destination in England’s West Country has Roman roots, and many of its ancient Roman baths and structures still stand and are available for tours.

Arguably the most picture-worthy landmark in Bath is the Royal Crescent, a curved structure erected in the 18th century with a sprawling garden out front. Of course, no trip to Bath would be complete without visiting the namesake Roman Baths, which are hot springs that are over 2,000 years old.

9. Liverpool

Many travelers know of Liverpool because of the Beatles, but the thriving, vibrant city has a lot more to offer than its musical heritage. Liverpool is home to two major soccer teams, Everton FC and Liverpool FC.

Even if you can’t catch a home game played by either team, you can tour both of the stadiums and embrace the “football” culture in Liverpool. You can also hang with the Liverpudlians at one of the many pubs and bars on nocturnally popular Wood Street.

8. Nottingham

Nicknamed the Queen of the Midlands, Nottingham is an underrated and scenic city in the heart of England. Whether you’re a history fan or an architectural enthusiast, the 11th century Nottingham Castle is certainly worth a visit.

The famous Robin Hood statue is located just outside the castle walls. Whet your whistle at Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem Inn, a pub that is more than 800 years old and claims to be one of the oldest in all of Britain.

7. Newcastle

The port city of Newcastle is located on the banks of the Tyne River, and it is best known for the strong accents of its residents, known as Geordies. Built as a Roman fort more than 2,000 years ago, Newcastle is yet another in a long line of historic cities in England.

Spanning the river is the impressive Gateshead Millennium Bridge, a landmark of the city. If the weather isn’t quite right for a stroll along the river’s banks, head indoors to the Victorian Central Arcade to explore the quaint shops and the local tourism center.

In the Southwest of England is a district called Cornwall, where residents are fiercely proud of their heritage, their beaches and the culture. One of the biggest Cornish cities is St. Ives, a relatively small destination that is packed with culture.

In St. Ives, visitors won’t want to miss the amazing art collection at the Tate St. Ives, which rivals some of the most popular art museums in London. You can follow it up with a stroll along Porthminster Beach, which boasts great swimming potential and even views of a nearby lighthouse.

In 1155, Bristol was founded, and in the centuries since it has amassed a sizable collection of architectural landmarks, attractions and museums. Start your visit in the Old City, where some of the medieval city walls still stand.

Of particular note is St Nicholas Market, where you can shop for local produce and delicious international fare in a glass-covered historic market. If you’re a fan of culture, don’t miss a show at the historic Old Vic, arguably one of the best-known theaters in all of England.

In Northwest England is Chester , a charming city with Roman origins and a location just on the Welsh border. Its biggest attraction might just be the Chester Cathedral, a stunning structure that was one of the few to survive under Henry VIII because it was simply too beautiful to tear down.

Travel back even further in time by exploring some of the Roman Chester landmarks, such as the ancient walls or the ruins of an enormous amphitheater. Just across the street from the Roman amphitheater is Grosvenor Park, a traditional 19th century Victorian garden perfect for picnics, strolls or people watching.

The English city of Durham is known for its beautiful university campus and its Roman architecture, and the two are clearly linked. Durham Castle, which was constructed in the 11th century, now serves as the oldest student accommodation in the world.

Also worth touring is the Durham Cathedral, which boasts a stunning tower, striking Norman design and free admission for all visitors. The nearby Botanical Gardens are also a favorite attraction for nature lovers, and the manicured gardens boast a stunning array of plant life throughout the year.

The city of York is a truly ancient destination, and it boasts an impressive collection of architectural remains that date to Roman, medieval and even viking times. A tour of the many ruins is a great way to experience the history of York, and one of the top tourist attractions is the York Minster, a cathedral whose origins date to the eighth century.

If you want to bring some of the culture of the past to life, check out the incredible collection at the JORVIK Viking Centre, where you can see recreations of viking life in the area.

London is the center of politics, finance, shopping and culture in England, and remains the best city to visit in England. It is hard to pin down just one must-see attraction in London , but first-time visitors might want to make Westminster a priority.

Westminster is home to Downing Street, the residence of the Prime Minister, as well as the Houses of Parliament and the famed Westminster Abbey. Also in Westminster, and perhaps one of the best-known structures in the world, is Buckingham Palace.

Map of cities in England

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28 Top Attractions & Things to Do in England

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Reader interactions.

March 5, 2024 at 11:35 pm

I completely agree! I’ve been to a few of these cities and they are all amazing. London is definitely a must-see, but I also loved Bath and Oxford. The history and architecture are just incredible. I can’t wait to visit the rest of these cities and experience the unique culture and charm of each one.

December 18, 2020 at 10:44 am

No mention of Norwich I see…. That’s fine, we want the capital of East Anglia with its castle, cathedral, market, lanes, shopping, university, museums and gorgeous people all to ourselves!

April 7, 2020 at 6:43 pm

Nightlife: Newcastle, Manchester, Nottingham, Bristol, London (in that order) “Olde Worlde” buildings: York, Chester, Oxford Cambridge, Bath St Ives is great, but is not a “city” – it is more of a village – population 11,000. And if you want to get out, get to the Lake District (the most beautiful part of England without question) or the Peak District, Exmoor/Dartmoor or – best of all – do a “super North” trip of the Lake District, Hadrian’s Wall and Northumberland Coast, which can be combined with a trip to Newcastle and Durham, and – even though further from London – will be distinctly cheaper than the cities further South.

July 18, 2018 at 5:26 am

Nottingham is great destination and it is true that it’s underrated. I visited last year advised by a friend and the town is definitely worth the ride.

17 Best Cities in the UK to Visit Right Now

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United Kingdom

Updated On: February 8, 2024

The UK is not short on incredible cities to visit. England , Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have fascinating cultures that you can experience through their cities’ architecture, attractions, and hospitality.

We’ll cover the finest in the United Kingdom – from major cities like London and Edinburgh to lesser-visited cities like Inverness, Bristol, and York. When planning a trip to the United Kingdom, these are the places that you should be adding to your itinerary.

Table of Contents

Top Cities in the UK

The UK includes some of the best countries to visit in the world, and each city reflects a unique culture and identity.

Whether you want to visit a lesser-known city or join the masses of tourists visiting major cities that have been darlings for decades, this list will give you plenty of choices.

1. London (Largest City)

As the capital of England and the country’s largest, London was always going to be on this list. It is one of the greatest arts and cultural hubs in both Europe and the rest of the world.

London is easily the most popular and famous to visit in England, and for many good reasons. London is full of attractions, including historical sites, landmarks , art galleries, theatres, and museums. Your days visiting London will be varied and action-packed. For example, you may spend a morning at the Natural History Museum, an afternoon grabbing lunch and shopping at the market in Camden Borough, and an evening watching a West End show.

If you are a first-time visitor to the UK, prioritize a visit to London. Not only does the city give you a broad impression of England, but London is also very accessible.

You’ll be bowled over by the number of things to do and see; just do some research and choose where to stay carefully beforehand to maximize your time when you arrive. If you need some extra guidance, you can read our 3-day itinerary for more information. Read More: 38 Best Things to do in London, England In 2023

2. Manchester

Manchester is one of the best cities in Northern England. Its flamboyant urban area and nightlife make it popular with university students, and visitors can expect a fun, friendly atmosphere.

Manchester was massively shaped by the Industrial Revolution and is widely claimed to be the world’s first industrial city. Manchester was once famous for textile production, the wealth from which was reinvested in the city’s development and into wealthy families. However, Manchester has outgrown its Revolution associations nowadays and is now known as an entertaining weekend getaway and sought-after place to live.

You can learn about the Industrial Revolution at Manchester’s Science & Industry Museum. We’d recommend also allowing time to visit the Manchester Art Gallery and the National Football Museum. The Manchester Art Gallery showcases artworks from over six centuries, and the football museum is a must for Premier League fans.

In the evening, head to The Gay Village or Spinningfields for a few drinks at the best pubs and clubs. The Manchester dress code is retro and indie regardless of the venue, so come prepared with your trendiest outfits.

If Manchester is one of the greatest cities in Northern England, Leeds is not far behind.

Like Manchester, Leeds was also massively influenced by the Industrial Revolution, and you’ll notice converted mill and factory buildings in many of the nearby areas. Leeds is the third biggest in England and is known for its hospitality, small city center, and proximity to the Yorkshire Dales.

Leeds is favored amongst university students – meaning you’ll enjoy a friendly atmosphere and lots of cheap eateries. The center is small, easily walkable, and perfect for a weekend of shopping, wining, and dining. We’d recommend allowing time to take a day trip to Yorkshire Dales National Park, visit the Industrial Museum, and Kirkstall Abbey.

If you want a drink, don an embarrassing fancy dress costume for the Otley Run (a famous local pub crawl) or head to The Calls for photogenic venues along the river.

4. Edinburgh

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit. As the Scottish capital, it attracts millions of tourists and, honestly, you should join the crowd.

Edinburgh is famed for its Old Town, which has those dreamy cobbled streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Some of the buildings in the Old Town are 500 years old, and the architecture gives the neighborhood a time capsule effect – especially with Edinburgh Castle and the sound of bagpipes in the background.

Edinburgh Castle is easily one of the best things to do , although you should also visit the National Museum, climb the Scott Monument, and walk the Royal Mile. Edinburgh excellently encapsulates Scottish culture, history, and identity.

As a first-time visitor to Scotland, we’d highly recommend visiting Edinburgh.

Of course, just because Edinburgh is fantastic doesn’t mean you should skip visiting Glasgow.

Glasgow is a great city to visit, and you’ll find lots of things to do and see. It has a slightly more modern feel than Edinburgh and lots of public green space to enjoy in the summer. Of course, Glasgow has two very passionate rival football teams, and fans should try to attend a Celtic or Rangers game to experience the sporting passion firsthand.

You should prioritize visiting the Glasgow Necropolis, People’s Palace, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and Pollok Country Park. Pollok Country Park is particularly popular amongst tourists wanting to see Highland Cattle. The park has a herd that lives on-site, so note it down if you want to meet one.

Glasgow is widely known as the country’s second city, but we think it ranks just as highly as Edinburgh.

The Northern Irish capital is well-deserving of a place on our list; Belfast has a lot going for it.

Belfast is easily added to a trip to England. You can catch a ferry from Liverpool or a domestic flight from any UK airport – sometimes costing less than $15 when booked in advance.

Belfast has a vibrant feel, with plenty of new developments like Castle Court Shopping Center. However, there is also a lot of history. You can learn about The Troubles by touring Belfast’s political murals, visiting the Titanic Belfast Museum, touring Crumlin Road Gaol, or walking up to Stormont – the home of the NI government.

From the city, there are hundreds of things to do , including visiting The Giant’s Causeway and the Mourne Mountains. Belfast is a fantastic base if you want to experience Northern Ireland for the first or millionth time.

While not one of the most famous cities in Great Britain, Bristol is easily one of the best cities for tourists.

Over the years, Bristol has transformed from a port town to a thriving city – highly sought after to visit, study, and live. Bristol is located along the Bristol Channel, an inlet from the Atlantic Ocean, so it is close to beaches should you want a sunbathe or swim. However, most impressively, Bristol is divided by a deep river gorge. Visitors entering Bristol cross over suspension bridges – making a scenic and memorable start to a holiday.

Bristol’s attractions include the SS Great Britain. SS Great Britain is an 1843 restored passenger liner. The ship is revered as the world’s first great ocean liner and has two museums, refurbished ship areas, and dockyards. The ship also houses many artifacts from its sister ship, The Royal Charter, which sailed around the world before her shipwreck.

For more naval history, you can stop by the nearby Underfall Yard Visitor Center to visit its popular maritime museum. Bristol is a fascinating place in England for those interested in maritime stories.

8. Liverpool

Liverpool is cool. Birthplace of the Beatles, dockside bar hopping, and the home of the huge Liverpool Cathedral, Liverpool is easily one of the most entertaining cities in England.

If you are traveling north of London, we recommend visiting Liverpool. The Liverpool atmosphere is down-to-earth and friendly, and it is the sort of place where you could go for a drink alone and leave to the next bar with twenty new friends.

Visiting the Beatles Story is a number one recommendation of things to do in Liverpool and is a world-famous attraction. But the British Music Experience, World Museum, and Port Sunlight Museum are all also worth visiting.

Music is at the heart of Liverpool’s identity, so we highly suggest watching some live music at Cavern Club during your stay. Cavern Club is a popular venue in Liverpool and specializes in tribute performances that run day and night.

If you want to experience music culture in England, look no further than Liverpool.

Unlike Liverpool, York is a quiet city surrounded mostly by country towns and villages. It may not be a popular destination for first-time travelers to the UK, but York does provide an idyllic introduction to England.

York is in the county of North Yorkshire and, despite its city status, has more of a town feel than a metropolitan one. York has incredible architecture, with its walls dating back to the 13th century and its narrowing shopping street, The Shambles, widely hailed as one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe.

York Minster Cathedral is beautiful to visit, while the York Dungeons and Jorvik Viking Center are immersive historical attractions to enjoy. Since York is located near both the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors National Parks, we’d suggest allowing time for a day trip in your itinerary.

For a laidback trip to Britain, York provides a relaxing experience with world-renowned, stunning medieval architecture.

10. Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle is a famously fun city with outrageous nightlife and plenty of culture. Newcastle is split in two by the River Tyne, with several footbridges and suspension bridges connecting either side of the city. Metropolitan but pretty (especially at night by the river), Newcastle has a lot to offer.

The city’s nightlife reputation was rocketed to fame by the reality TV program Geordie Shore, and it is also a popular choice amongst university students. The city’s popularity is well deserved, as you’ll find many pubs, clubs, and bars. However, the city isn’t just where you go for a party in the north of England.

Newcastle is fantastic for tourism, with lots of museums and art galleries. You should prioritize visiting Great North Museum: Hancock, Laing Art Gallery, and Discovery Museum. Newcastle Castle is also a great attraction to visit and doesn’t hold back on telling some of the most gruesome stories from history in England.

11. Birmingham (Second Largest City)

Birmingham is the second-largest city in England and has a massive population of over a million people. Visitors will find restaurants, attractions, and hotels at every step – a benefit of choosing such a major city to visit in England.

You can choose to visit popular attractions like Cadbury World, Legoland, and Sea Life. Or, visit some of Birmingham’s unique attractions like The Coffin Works, which runs tours explaining the process of coffin making and telling stories about the funerals of famous people. If you want diversity, Birmingham is one of the best cities in England.

Is Birmingham a little rough around the edges? Yes, in parts. Birmingham is best suited to people who want to experience a supercity in England and have already experienced other cities in the country. Birmingham is a destination for travelers who know exactly what they want and have a solid grasp on traveling in the UK.

12. Brighton

Brighton is a seaside city with a big personality. While only just south of London, Brighton has a strong identity and boldly stands as a destination in its own right. You’ll see plenty of young families and couples commuting to Brighton from London and teenagers traveling with friends from neighboring towns.

Located on the south coast of England, Brighton is lined by beaches and overlooks the English Channel. There’s a mix of cheesy seaside attractions, a twisting maze of shopping alleys called The Lanes that were built from the 1500s, and an eccentrically placed Royal Pavilion – a palace constructed with Asian architecture.

A medieval town? Seaside resort? City of luxurious architectural follies? Who knows. Brighton denies a category, which definitely adds to the city’s tourism appeal. If you want a memorable seaside city in England, Brighton is a good choice. Brighton constantly remixes any expectations you might have of English cities, meaning you’ll never get bored.

13. Cardiff

Cardiff is the largest city and capital of Wales. As far as Welsh cities go, Cardiff is the main celebrity and one of the best places to visit .

Located just south of the Brecon Beacons National Park, Cardiff is a riverside city famous for television production, sports, museums, and nightlife. Unfortunately, as many people rush to the coast or National Parks in Wales, Cardiff is often overlooked as a city break.

What’s Cardiff got? In short, everything that you need. You’ll find green space to sunbathe in summer, nearby beaches if you want to brave a swim, and indoor activities if you get unlucky with the weather.

We suggest planning a stay in Cardiff, even if you continue to the Welsh countryside. There is the Museum of Cardiff, Cardiff Castle, and even a White Water Rafting Center to challenge yourself with rapids. The castle is around 2,000 years old, so there is no denying that the Cardiff has substance and plenty of stories to tell.

Book a hotel, slow down, and enjoy the capital before rushing off around Wales.

14. Cambridge

Cambridge is a prestigious university city – perfect for getting a taste of the elite student experience in England. The city is classy to the core, and you can fill your days with punting on the River Cam and visiting its many museums.

Aside from museums, Cambridge is home to many churches and the Ely Cathedral. The Ely Cathedral is a classic gothic cathedral and a popular religious site to experience on a booked tour. The Round Church is also worth visiting and dates back to the 12th century. The medieval church has a distinctive rounded shape and is a fun bit of architecture to visit.

Cambridge is easily one of the best cities in England to experience southern Englishness firsthand.

Speaking of elite universities, Oxford is Cambridge’s rival city. Oxford is home to Oxford University, which was established in the 12th century and is renowned across the world.

Like Cambridge, Oxford is a city where you go to experience southern Englishness. The city center is full of gothic architecture, and the buildings are typically made from pale cream clipsham stone. Oxford has a definite aesthetic, and it is easy to imagine yourself stepping back a hundred years.

Oxford also has a beautiful cathedral and is famous for its arts. Literature lovers should prioritize visiting the Bodleian Library, the UK’s second-largest library and containing over 11 million texts.

Bath is a Georgian-styled city, with lots of terrace buildings cut from pale yellow Bath Stone. Like Oxford, Bath has an aesthetic feel, and the uniformed buildings cut from the same stone make you feel like you are stepping out from the 18th century.

If you are a history lover, we especially suggest considering Bath, as it is one of the best cities to visit in England for literary and Roman history.

Bath has a Mary Shelley and a Jane Austen museum. The city also has The Roman Baths, where you can tour the preserved ruins, learn from the interactive exhibits, and observe original Roman artifacts. Next door to the Roman Baths, you can actually bathe in the UK’s only natural thermal baths. The Thermae Bath Spa uses natural spring water to heat a rooftop pool and multi-level spa.

17. Inverness

Inverness is heaven. The Scottish Highlands are understandably popular and a stunning region of the UK to visit, and Inverness provides a city base in their center.

While Edinburgh and Glasgow get the brunt of tourist attention, those that venture further north are greatly rewarded. Known as the gateway to the Highlands, Inverness is a pocket of city life in a dramatic natural setting.

Just outside of the city, you can pay your respects at Culloden Battlefield – the final battle site of the Jacobite Rising. While in the city, you can visit St Andrew’s Cathedral, visit the Inverness Museum, or walk around Ness Islands. Inverness is a lesser-visited but fantastic Scottish city You can expect lots of exciting and inspiring things to do.

Cities in the United Kingdom FAQ

When Is The Best Time To Visit The UK?

The best time to visit the UK is in spring or summer. The UK will be warmer and have longer daylight hours during these months, and outdoor activities will be more enjoyable.

Keep in mind that there are school holidays in April and between July and August. School holidays may impact hotel availability and the busyness of tours and attractions.

What are the Largest Cities in the UK by population?

London has the largest population in the UK and has over seven million people. Birmingham, Leeds, then Glasgow follow closely behind.

What city in the UK should I visit first?

It might seem obvious, but you should visit London first. London is an amazing city with lots to see and do, but it is also the most accessible city for those flying into the UK. You should find the cheapest flights and a higher likelihood of direct flight routes.

Those wanting to combine visiting Britain and Europe should also consider taking the train to or from France. The Eurostar takes less than two and a half hours to reach Paris from London – which doesn’t get much easier.

What is the most beautiful city in the UK?

The most beautiful city in the UK is Bath. The bath stone color, Georgian street style, and general architecture make Bath a beautiful place.

What are the most popular cities in the UK?

The most popular cities in the UK are London, Edinburgh, Belfast, Liverpool, and Manchester.

These are thriving cities with plenty of arts, transport links, and things to do. Most people visiting the UK for the first time choose one of these cities.

The United Kingdom has a lot of beautiful cities that you should add to your bucket list. From incredible history and architecture to famous landmarks and tasty food, all of these cities in the UK offer something different depending on what you are looking for. If you are planning a trip to the UK anytime soon then make sure to add a few of these cities to your itinerary.

Plan Your Next Trip to The UK With These Resources

Amazing Places to Visit in the UK
10 Fun Facts About England That You Don’t Already Know
British Food: 23 Best UK Dishes to Try at Home or Abroad
What to Expect when Coasteering in Wales
North Coast 500 – The Ultimate Trip Guide to Scotland’s Epic Drive

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO .

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

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12 Very Best Cities in England to visit

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 31, 2023

A guide to Englands most beautiful cities

Do you enjoy culture, history, architecture, art, food and shopping? You will find all this and more on offer in England’s cities. This guide provides an introduction to 12 of the very best cities in England- an essential read when planning a visit.

While England’s pretty market towns and chocolate box villages may dominate bucket lists there are many cities also worth exploring.

If you are unsure which cities to include in your itinerary this article will help by introducing you to 12 of the very best English cities located across the 9 regions of the country. You will find information about some of the top things to see and do in each city as well as a brief overview of what each city is known for.

These English cities are all accessible by train from London so can be easily included in your UK travel plans if you are based in the capital. To help you plan your trip I have included the logistics of how to get to each city from London.

You will find a map showing the various locations of these best of English cities at the bottom of the post.

Which of these best cities in England will you visit next?

Cities to visit in North West England

Think of Liverpool and the Beatles or football will probably spring to mind.

With numerous restaurants, bars, and museums Liverpool is just one of many cities in England that is the perfect destination for a weekend trip. While it is possible to see the highlights of Liverpool in one day (if you plan well) I would recommend at least 2 days to really explore.

Liverpool is a walkable city and there are good public transport links to and from major destinations across the UK.

What to see and do in Liverpool

Royal Albert Dock Liverpool

The docks and warehouses which were opened in 1846 now form part of the former UNESCO World Heritage-listed ‘Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City’

With numerous bars, restaurants, museums and shops the Albert Dock is one of the best places to visit in Liverpool.

Tate Liverpool

Also situated at the Royal Albert Dock is the Tate Liverpool which houses a collection of modern art.

The museum is open Monday to Sunday between 10.00 and 17.50. Entry is free except for special exhibitions.

Love the Beatles?

It’s been a hard day’s night … head to the Cavern Club arguably (as it states on their website) the most famous club in the world.

The Royal Albert Dock is also home to the Beatles Story an exhibition all about Liverpool’s most famous sons. And while at the waterfront don’t forget to take a selfie of yourself posing with the statues of Ringo, John, Paul and George!

More ideas for your visit can be found in my complete Liverpool Itinerary for fans of the Beatles

Click to buy tickets for the Beatles story

Another Place

If you are looking for something different to do in Liverpool why not head to nearby Crosby to see Anthony Gormley’s Another Place ? Consisting of 100 cast iron life size figures standing along a 3 km stretch of Crosby beach they are worth the short train journey from Liverpool.

Read more – Complete guide to visiting the city of Liverpool

How to travel to Liverpool from London by train

Distance from London: 178 miles
Time taken by train: 2 hours 30 mins
Leave from: London Euston to Liverpool Lime Street (hourly direct service)

Where to stay in Liverpool

There are accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets in Liverpool. I recommend staying in the centre of the city within walking distance of Albert Docks and the main train station.

BEST – Hard Day’s Night Hotel

This Beatles themed hotel is round the corner from the Cavern Club and is our number one choice of accommodation in Liverpool. Close to all the main sights, this 5* hotel is decorated with Beatles memorabilia and decor.

MID-RANGE – The Liner Hotel

The Liner Hotel is a 3-star ocean liner themed hotel with modern rooms, an on-site brasserie and a cocktail lounge.

BUDGET – The Z Hotel

The Z Hotel in Liverpool is an excellent budget option. The rooms are compact but there is a cafe and free WiFi for guests.

Read more – My Liverpool Travel Guide contains everything you need to know to plan your visit to the city

⭐️ CLICK TO BUY

Manchester in the North West of England is often called the Capital of the North and is the 5th largest city in the UK.

It has an outstanding music legacy (it is the home of bands such as Oasis, the Stone Rose and the Smiths) and is world-famous for its football team.

Manchester offers culture, sporting venues, nightclubs, shopping districts and restaurants which make it the perfect weekend break destination.

The city of Manchester in England one of the best cities in England to visit

What to see and do in Manchester

Northern Quarter

Explore the Northern Quarter a trendy neighbourhood of Manchester with street art, bars and cafes. Pop into Federal for brunch and then Afflecks for cocktails and drinks.

Salford Quays

The Lowry is a theatre and gallery complex situated in the Salford Quays area of Manchester. Take in a show or browse the art.

The second largest Chinatown in the UK with lots of great restaurants and shops. Head there for Chinese New Year celebrations and the best bubble tea anywhere.

How to get to Manchester from London by train

Distance from London: 163 miles
Leave from: London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly

Where to stay in Manchester

These are my recommended accommodation options for Manchester.

BEST – The Edwardian Manchester

MID-RANGE – The Midland

BUDGET – Ibis Styles Manchester Portland Hotel

Chester, like York is a walled Medieval city with its roots in Roman England. It is a pretty city with loads of character and boasts preserved historic buildings including the most complete city walls as well as the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain.

Don’t miss the beautiful half-timbered houses on Watergate Street and Lower Bridge Street during your visit.

What to see and do in Chester

The Rows are galleries that form the second row of shops above those at street level. They have to be reached by steps and are the only shops built like this in the world. They are found along the main city centre streets and contain shops, bars and restaurants.

Chester’s city walls

Walk the 2-mile circuit around the city and spot many historically significant sites along the way including the four main gates into Chester.

Chester Cathedral in particular the Cathedral Choir

Don’t miss the beautiful 14th-century stalls in the choir area of the Cathedral.

Read more about Chester in my complete Chester Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

How to travel to Chester from London

Time taken by train: 2 hours
Leave from: London Euston to Chester

Where to stay in Chester

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Chester. These are my top selections:

BEST – The Chester Grosvenor

This 5* luxury hotel is located in the heart of Chester and offers visitors a luxury experience including a Michelin starred restaurant.

MID -RANGE – Mill Hotel and Spa

Enjoy views of the Shropshire Union Canal while you dine in one of the 4 hotel eateries. Alternatively, take a meal and a cruise on the hotel’s Restaurant Cruise or enjoy the hotel’s spa facilities after a day of sightseeing in Chester.

BUDGET – The Saddle Inn

Located in the city centre this hotel offers guests a comfortable stay with free WiFi. Pets are allowed at no extra cost.

Read more – What to do and see in North West England

Cities to visit in North East England

Situated in the ceremonial county of Tyne and Wear (and the historic county of Northumberland ) Newcastle with its industrial heritage, lively nightlife, great shopping, restaurants, bars and museums are the perfect starting point to explore the North East.

If you are not from the UK you may find the distinctive regional accent – Geordie – a little difficult to understand but the warmth and friendliness of the people will easily make up for any difficulties.

Spend a day or two exploring the city then embark on a road trip along the Northumberland Coast . With more castles than any other county and the remains of the Roman Wall stretching from Wallsend in the east to Cumbria in the west, it is easy to spend a week or more exploring the sights of Northumberland .

What to see and do in Newcastle

Tyne Bridge

The iconic structure and symbol of Newcastle the Tyne Bridge was opened in 1928. It is strikingly similar to the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia although is 3 times shorter and half the height of its Aussie twin! The bridges were designed and built by the same company which goes a long way to explain their similarities.

The Angel of the North

Although technically in Gateshead (a town located on the southern bank of the River Tyne) the Angel of the North cannot be missed when visiting Newcastle.

Created by the sculptor Anthony Gormley and standing on a hill overlooking the A1 motorway this beautiful landmark welcomes visitors to the region.

At 20 meters high and with a wingspan of 54 meters the Angel of the North is reputed to be the largest angel sculpture in the world. It is accessible by both car and public transport.

The Quayside

With great restaurants and bars, The Quayside is the place to head for a night out in Newcastle. It is also home to the Gateshead Millennium Bridge (the world’s only tilting bridge and yes another iconic bridge spanning the Tyne river)

If you enjoy modern art the BALTIC art gallery can be found on the opposite bank or if markets are more your thing the Quayside market on a Sunday sells local produce and crafts.

Segedunum Roman Fort and Museum

If you have an interest in Roman history a visit to Segedunum Roman Fort and Museum in Wallsend shouldn’t be missed. Here you will discover all about Roman Britain and many other places the Romans have left their mark in Northumberland.

How to get to Newcastle from London by train

Distance from London: 247 miles

Time taken by train: 3 hours

Leave from: London Kings Cross to Newcastle Central Station

Where to stay in Newcastle

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Newcastle. These are my top selections:

BEST – The Vermont Hotel

Set in a fabulous location this hotel and former County Hall offers river views, bars, restaurants and is within walking distance of the Quayside.

MID -RANGE – Cairn Hotel

Enjoy a stay in one of Newcastle’s most hip and stylish establishments. The hotel’s Thai restaurant is not to be missed.

BUDGET – Motel One Newcastle

The centrally located chain hotel offers affordable luxury and a central location.

The Angel of the North can be seen on the drive up to Newcastle one of the best cities in England to visit

The university town of Durham with its historic centre, castle and cathedral (which are also jointly a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is one of England’s most beautiful cities.

An easy day trip from London, especially during the long sunny days of summer, Durham is an excellent destination for those travelling to Edinburgh from London.

Make sure to head up the hill to the cathedral and castle and enjoy beautiful views over the River Wear.

Good to know – If you are driving to Durham do not attempt to park in the city. There are three Park and Ride services on the key routes into Durham. Taking one of these options will avoid the stress of attempting to find a parking spot in the city. You can find out more about Durham’s Park and Ride scheme here.

What to see and do in Durham

Durham Cathedral

Built in the Norman style with huge stone pillars supporting a stone ceiling construction of the cathedral started in 1093. Home of the Shrine of St Cuthbert the cathedral also contains the remains of two saints – St Cuthbert and St Bede.

Unfortunately, the stained glass which filled the cathedral was destroyed during the Reformation. All is not lost however as the cathedral boasts a stunning 18th century Rose window.

Durham Castle

Durham Castle is located opposite the cathedral and has, since 1837, belonged to the city’s prestigious university.

The castle was built by the Normans to display the power of William the Conqueror over the rebellious natives who lived in the north of England.

If staying in an English castle is on your bucket list you may be interested to know that you can book a stay at Durham castle . Though not the luxury experience you may dream of the university-style student accommodation is great for the budget-conscious traveller.

Beamish Museum

If you are spending a few days in Durham or road tripping around the north of England I would highly recommend a visit to Beamish Open Air Museum just outside Durham. The museum gives visitors a taste of life in the North East of England during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Read more about Durham in my complete Durham Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

How to get to Durham from London by train

Distance from London: 234 miles

Time taken by train: 2 hours 50 mins

Leave from: London Kings Cross to Durham

Where to stay in Durham

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Durham. These are my top selections:

BEST – The Kings Lodge Inn

Offering free car parking and located only a short walk from the centre the Kings Lodge Inn offers visitors a comfortable stay with free wi-fi, a cosy bar and a restaurant on site.

MID -RANGE – Radisson Blu Hotel

Centrally located near to the train station the Radisson Blu offers visitors fantastic views of Durham Cathedral.

BUDGET – Durham Castle

Perfect budget accommodation in the heart of the city – spend the night in a castle and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Read more – What to do and see in North East England

Cities to visit in Yorkshire

The beautiful walled city of York located in North Yorkshire is the perfect destination for a city break, weekend getaway or stop off if you are taking the train from London to Edinburgh in Scotland.

With its beautiful Minster, cobbled streets and links to Roman and Viking Britain York has something for all the family. Its medieval city walls offer great views over the city too.

Easily accessible by train it is a compact and walkable city with great restaurants, quirky shops and lots of museums.

York Minster in the background with the walls of York

What to see and do in York

York Minster

The Minster which dates back to the 7th century dominates the York skyline. Climb the Central Tower for great views of the city or take a journey through its interactive underground chambers and find out more about the history of York and the Minster.

National Railway Museum

If you are a fan of trains and train travel a visit to the railway museum in York is highly recommended. Entrance is free and there are some great trains to explore including the Mallard, a Japanese bullet train and Queen Victoria’s favourite saloon. The National Railway Museum in York is perfect to explore on a rainy day!

The Shambles

Taking a stroll down the cobble-stoned Shambles is like stepping back in time. Dating back to Medieval England the street with its overhanging wooden buildings is filled with quirky and original shops.

Take afternoon tea at Bettys Tea Rooms!

You really can’t visit England (or York) without experiencing a traditional afternoon tea. Bettys Tea Rooms are the perfect destination for tea lovers but make sure you book well in advance as they are very popular. Open since 1936 enjoy tea and cakes in the beautiful art deco surroundings.

Read more about Oxford in my complete York Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

How to get to York from London by train

Distance from London: 174 miles

Leave from: London Kings Cross to York

Where to stay in York

There are lots of 11 Best places to stay in York (for all budgets & travel styles) accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets in York. These are my top selections:

BEST – Grays Court

Located between York Minster and the city walls this hotel offers guests the perfect luxury accommodation. Stroll the gardens, enjoy a drink at the bar or a traditional afternoon tea in the hotel’s award-wining restaurant.

MID -RANGE – Hotel Indigo York

Spacious and stylish rooms in the heart of York with excellent amenities including a rainfall shower, mini-fridge and 32-inch flat-screen TV.

BUDGET – The Bar Convent

Offering a historic and quirky stay in York this hotel is ideally located near the station and city centre. An excellent breakfast is included.

York Minster in York one of the best cities in England to visit

Read more – What to do and see in Yorkshire

Cities to visit in the East of England

The university city of Cambridge is located only 55 miles from London which makes it the perfect destination for a day trip.

Dating back to the 13th century the university is recognised as one of the and best in the world. There is a friendly rivalry with the equally famous (and slightly older) Oxford University. Don’t miss the Oxford and Cambridge boat race which has been held along a 4 mile stretch of the River Thames in London since 1829. Both these cities in England are worth a visit if you can fit them into your itinerary.

A punt along the river cam in cambridge in one of the best cities in England to visit

What to do and see in Cambridge

Cambridge University

Among the most beautiful of the University’s 31 colleges are King’s College and King’s College Chapel, Queens College and the Mathematical Bridge, Trinity College, Corpus Christi College, St John’s College and Peterhouse College.

I recommend booking a walking tour to find out more about the history of the colleges (and to ensure you don’t miss anything)

The Fitzwilliam Museum

A must-visit in Cambridge is the famous Fitzwilliam Museum. Containing antiquities from around the globe as well as numerous artworks by Turner, Gainsborough, Rubens, Picasso amongst others admission to the museum is free.

Take a punt along the River Cam

The perfect activity for an English summer’s day! A punt is a flat bottomed boat that is propelled by pushing a pole against the river bed. Book a tour and relax and enjoy the sights of Cambridge from the River Cam.

Read more about Oxford in my complete Cambridge Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

How to get to Cambridge from London

Distance from London: 55 miles

Time taken by train: 50 mins to 1 hour 50 depending on the route

Leave from: London St Pancras International to Cambridge is the quickest route

Where to stay in Cambridge

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Cambridge. These are my top selections:

BEST – University Arms

Situated in the heart of Cambridge the University Arms offers guests top-notch hospitality. Excellent food and drink are on offer and free WiFi is available for guests.

MID -RANGE – Gonville Hotel

Overlooking Parker’s Piece (famous as the birthplace of modern football) the Gonville Hotel is a 4* hotel with exceptional service and amenities. Enjoy the complimentary bike hire and take a cycle tour of the city.

BUDGET – Leverton House

Located just outside Cambridge Leverton House offers guests free parking, WiFi and an excellent breakfast.

Cities to visit in South West England

The beautiful city of Bath is one of the most popular tourist destinations and cities to visit in England and is worth visiting at any time of year.

With its stunning architecture, quintessentially English character and Roman legacy (don’t miss the Ancient Roman baths) plan a few days to fully explore this stunning city. It is also an excellent base for exploring one of England’s most beautiful areas – the Cotswolds.

What to see and do in Bath

There are lots of places to visit and things to do and see in Bath. Here are my top choices – for more itinerary suggestions read my guide to places to visit in Bath.

The Roman Baths

Built over 2000 years ago the Roman Baths attract over 1.2 million visitors a year.

Plan at least 2 hours to explore the Roman Temple, Bath House, Sacred Spring and museum. Head to the Grand Pump Room for a refreshment break or afternoon tea.

Admire the Royal Crescent

The Royal Crescent is a row of 30 houses laid out in a crescent shape. Built between 1767 and 1774 they are a beautiful example of Georgian architecture.

Take a selfie at the crescent then head over to the park for ice cream and a stroll in the beautiful gardens.

Pulteney Bridge

Dating back to 1774 the bridge spans the River Avon. The bridge is one of only 4 in the world with shops across both spans. As well as housing many independent shops there are also a variety of restaurants located on the bridge.

How to travel to Bath from London

Distance from London: 94 miles / 152 km

Time taken by train: 2 hours 28

Leave from: London Paddington

Where to stay in Bath

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Bath . Bath is one of the most popular cities in England for visitors from overseas so make sure to book well in advance especially in the summer. These are my top selections:

BEST – The Gainsborough Bath Spa

Located only 100 meters from Bath Abbey and accessing heated thermal waters in its spa the Gainsborough is a fabulous luxury hotel offering visitors the perfect stay in Bath.

MID -RANGE – The Bird

Boutique hotel offering stylish and quirky accommodation in the centre of Bath.

BUDGET – Z Hotel Bath

Modern centrally located budget hotel with excellent facilities and stylish decor.

Read more about Bath in my complete Bath Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

The Royal Crescent in Bath one of the best cities in England to visit

A cultural hub offering visitors great shopping, live music, wining and dining opportunities Bristol is the largest city in South West England.

Bath is only 12 miles to the east of Bristol and 120 miles west of London. Street artist Banksy is from Bristol and works can be found around the city.

If you have an interest in history the name Isambard Kingdom Brunel may be familiar. The Clifton Suspension Bridge and Brunel’s SS Great Britain were both created by the genius Victorian engineer and are monuments to his talent.

Balloons over the Bristol Suspension Bridge

What to see and do in Bristol

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Designed by Brunel this 150-year-old suspension bridge is a toll bridge linking Clifton in Bristol with Leigh Woods in North Somerset. There are free tours available at 3 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays between Easter and October for those of you with an interest in engineering!

Bristol Shopping Quarter

For serious shoppers, the Bristol Shopping Quarte r is home to hundreds of shops, restaurants, cafes and attractions.

Discover Bristol’s street art

Take a self-guided walking tour of Bristol and discover street artist Banksy’s most famous local works.

Read more about Bristol in my complete Bristol Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

How to travel to Bristol from London

Distance from London: 104 miles / 167 km

Time taken by train: 1 h 49

Leave from: London Paddington

Where to stay in Bristol

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Bristol. These are my top selections:

BEST – Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel

Located next to Bristol Cathedral and the historic waterfront the Royal Hotel offers guests a comfortable stay in a beautiful Victorian setting.

MID -RANGE – Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City

Perfectly located next to the main shopping area and Bristol Temple Meads train station the Hilton Garden Inn offers guests free WiFi, a cosy lounge bar and restaurant options.

BUDGET – Mercure Bristol Grand Hote l

Good location in the heart of Bristol with ensuite rooms, free WiFi and parking available (for a daily charge)

Banksy design of a girl holding a balloon in a coffee cup

The compact and walkable city of Oxford is home to one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities.

The 38 colleges which comprise Oxford University offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into English traditions and a way of life dating back hundreds of years. Nicknamed the ‘City of Dreaming Spires” the city is the perfect day trip destination from London.

Oxford one of the best cities in England to visit

What to see and do in Oxford

Explore Oxford University

Founded in the 13th century Oxford University’s alumni include international heads of state including numerous British Prime Ministers, Nobel prize winners, famous authors, and many well-known actors.

Wander the colleges and soak in the scholarly atmosphere of this famous seat of learning. Don’t miss the Bodleian Library and Redcliffe Camera at the university.

The Covered Market

Opened in 1774 browse the market’s many shops and stalls before enjoying a refreshment break in one of the many eateries.

Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is located only 20 minutes from the city of Oxford. The present home of the Duke of Marlborough Blenheim is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Read more about Oxford in my complete Oxford Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

How to travel to Oxford from London

Distance from London: 52 miles / 83 km

Time taken by train: 1 hour

Leave from: London Paddington/ London Marylebone

Where to stay in Oxford

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Oxford. These are my top selections:

BEST – Old Parsonage Hotel

Dating back to 1660 this boutique hotel in the centre of Oxford offers outstanding accommodation for guests.

MID -RANGE – Head of the River

Great views of the river and an excellent hearty breakfast make this the perfect choice for visitors looking for a more traditional stay in Oxford.

BUDGET – Heather House Bed and Breakfast

With off road parking, the choice of a continental or full English breakfast this cosy and friendly B&B is the perfect budget option.

Read more – What to do and see in South West England

Cities to visit in South East England

Located on the south coast of England is the charming seaside city of Brighton.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the city was a popular destination for wealthy Londoners (including King George IV during his time as Prince Regent)

Boasting stunning Regency architecture, beautiful parks and a laid-back atmosphere Brighton is the perfect weekend destination or day trip from London.

Read more about Brighton in my complete Brighton Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

Brighton Pier can be seen in Brighton one of the best cities in England

What to see and do in Brighton

The Brighton Pavilion

The opulently decorated Brighton Pavilion is a must-visit. Built by King George IV when he was Prince Regent (at enormous expense to the country) you will discover a home filled to the brim with exquisite furnishings.

Brighton Palace Pier

Brighton’s famous pier was opened in 1899. It is a Grade II listed structure and an iconic symbol of the city.

Packed with restaurants, tea rooms, pubs and shops these narrow alleyways are a shopper’s paradise.

How to travel to Brighton from London

Distance from London: 47 miles (75 km)

Time taken by train: 1 hour 22

Leave from: London Blackfriars/ London Victoria

Where to stay in Brighton

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Brighton. These are my top selections:

BEST – The Grand Brighton

Relax with views overlooking the sea at the sumptuous Renaissance style iconic Grand Hotel in Brighton. With high-quality furnishings, free WiFi and a stylish cocktail bar on offer this is the perfect accommodation for that special stay in Brighton.

MID -RANGE – The Charm Brighton Boutique Hotel and Spa

A luxury, grade II boutique hotel offering guests comfortable and elegantly furnished rooms.

BUDGET – Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront

An excellent budget option the Jurys Inn is well located and is near pubs, bars and restaurants and across the road from the beach.

Read more – What to do and see in South East England

No list of the best cities to visit in England would be complete without including the capital!

If London is your first UK destination you will find that a few days may not be enough to see and do everything you want. I recommend prioritising your must-sees and building your itinerary from there – you can find ideas to help you in my London Travel Planning Guide .

What to see and do in London

There is far too much to do and see in London to include in this short paragraph but here are a few ideas for your London bucket list:

Love Botanical Gardens? Head to Kew Gardens
Love history? Head to the Tower of London
Love the Royal Family? Head to Buckingham Palace
Love shopping? Head to Oxford Street, Covent Garden and Harrods
Love museums? Head to some of the fabulous free museums such as the British Museum or the Natural History Museum
Love art? Head to the Tate Modern
Love markets? Head to Borough Market
Love Harry Potter? Head to Leadenhall Market (Diagon Alley) and Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross Station. There are also lots of Harry Potter themed tours available or take a trip to Harry Potter Studios (an hour from London)

You can find more about planning your visit to London in my London Travel Planning Guide here

If you are planning to visit these cities in England by train don’t miss our comprehensive guid e to train travel or our pick of the top 10 rail journeys to take across the UK.

Other cities to visit which made the shortlist include

If you have questions why not join my free UK travel planning group on Facebook – it is a great place to chat and find out more about what there is to see and do in the UK as well as providing practical advice and tips to help you make the most of your trip.

Planning an England trip in 2024? Consider these 16 top places to visit

Feb 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Gracious Bath is an excellent place to immerse yourself in England’s history and beauty © gowithstock / Shutterstock

The story of England stretches back more than 5000 years (and likely many more). Which means its impossible to escape the past here.

As you wander its historic urban centers, mysterious monoliths, misty landscapes and rugged coastlines and national parks , you’ll discover a country filled with unparalleled places to visit that are are the more compelling thanks to all those who have visited them before.

As you plan a trip to England this year, here’s our list of 16 historic, exciting and all-around fabulous highlights to consider.

The Coast Guard Cottages and Seven Sisters chalk cliffs, Eastbourne, Sussex, England, UK

1. The Seven Sisters

While Dover ’s iconic white cliffs grab the most attention, the colossal chalky walls of the Seven Sisters are a more spectacular affair, a four-mile roller-coaster of sheer white rock stretching along the Sussex shore and overlooking the waters of the English Channel. It forms an impressive southern border to the South Downs National Park , and is most dramatic at the towering headland of Beachy Head . Hikes through the grassy clifftop fields provide wide sea views, breathtaking in every sense.

Local tip: Stop for a breather at the tiny seaside hamlet of Birling Gap, where the secluded beach is a sun trap popular with locals and walkers.

The great hall of Christ Church, University of Oxford, Oxford, England, United Kingdom

Oxford lets visitors feel close to the brilliant minds and august institutions that have made this city famous across the globe. This rarefied world comes to life in the cobbled lanes and ancient quads where cycling students and eccentric academics roam. The beautiful college buildings and stunning architecture have changed little over the centuries, coexisting with a lively, modern, working city. As befits a city of students and professors, Oxford is one of the last bastions of the great British pub, with irresistible old watering holes dotted all over its central lanes and alleyways.

A view of King’s College and King’s College Chapel seen from The Backs, Cambridge, England, United Kingdom

3. Cambridge

In England’s other great historic university city, Cambridge , you can tour a college , and spend time marveling at the intricate vaulting of King’s College Chapel . But no trip to Cambridge is complete without an attempt to take a punt (flat-bottomed boat) along the River Cam by the picturesque Backs , the leafy, green lawns behind the city's finest colleges – an experience that offers the best views of the exquisite architecture. Polish off the day with a pint at one of Cambridge’s many rustic pubs.

People walk by an arcade in in Bath, Somerset, England, United Kingdom

In a nation packed with pretty cities, Bath stands out as the belle of the ball. Founded by the Romans, who established the spa resort of Aquae Sulis to take advantage of the area’s hot springs , Bath hit its stride in the 18th century, when the rich industrialist Ralph Allen and architects John Wood the Elder and John Wood the Younger oversaw the city’s transformation into a model of Georgian architecture at its most refined . Bath is awash with golden stone townhouses, sweeping green crescents and Palladian mansions, along with appealing pubs and restaurants, and you’ll take great pleasure in plunging in.

A hiker walking alongside Hadrian’s Wall near Crag Lough in Northumberland, England, UK

5. Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the country's most dramatic Roman ruins, a 2000-year-old procession of abandoned forts, garrisons, towers and milecastles marching across the wild and lonely landscape of northern England. While the Romans built the fortification to defend and control its territory, this edge-of-empire barrier also symbolized the boundary of civilized order in the ancient world: to the north of the Roman settlement lay the unruly land of the marauding Celts. Near Newcastle you can visit Segedunum , the wall’s last stronghold, for an insight into life during Roman times.

Planning tip: Hiking the full 84-mile distance coast to coast along the national trail takes around a week. If you have less time and your own car, you may want to select from a few of the wall's highlights .

People walking the city walls in York, with a view towards the Gothic Minster

With its Roman and Viking heritage, ancient city walls and maze of cobbled streets, York is a living record of English history. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider’s web of “snickelways” (narrow alleys), each one the focus of a ghost story or historical character. At the city’s heart lies the immense, awe-inspiring York Minster , the biggest medieval cathedral in all of northern Europe, and one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world. Admire feats of engineering of a more recent vintage at the National Railway Museum , the world’s largest collection of historic locomotives.

York’s long history and rich heritage are woven into virtually every brick and beam, and the modern, tourist-oriented city – with its myriad museums, restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs – is a carefully maintained showcase of that heritage.

Local tip: You’ll find some of the finest views of York from its old city walls, particularly the bucolic section behind the Minster.

Aerial view of people riding across a viaduct in the Peak District National Park, England, United Kingdom

7. The Peak District

Curiously, you won’t find many peaks in the Peak District . You will find blissful miles of tumbling moorland, plunging valleys, eroded gritstone crags, lush farmland and ancient pocket-sized villages. This beautiful landscape attracts a veritable army of outdoor enthusiasts – cyclists, hikers, cavers and rock climbers – on summer weekends, while those seeking more relaxing enjoyment can admire the rural market and famous puddings of Bakewell, the Victorian pavilions of spa-town Buxton, and the architectural drama of Chatsworth House – the “Palace of the Peak.”

People enjoying the Brighton Pride Parade, Brighton, Sussex, England, United Kingdom

8. Brighton

Barely an hour’s train ride from the capital, the seaside city of Brighton has a quirky character that’s completely its own. Overlooking the English Channel on England’s pebbly south coast, this is a city that's long been known for its oddball, alternative character. The warren of streets known as the Lanes is a good place to soak up the vibe, with vegan cafes, espresso bars, chaotic pubs, record stores and bric-a-brac shops. (Browsers will be in heaven at local institution Snooper’s Paradise .) You'll also find the UK ’s biggest queer scene here, and the region’s best small clubs. The highlight for the sightseeing visitor is the Royal Pavilion , a 19th-century party palace built by the Prince Regent, who kicked off Brighton’s love of the outlandish.

Revellers gather for the Summer Solstice at Stonehenge, Wiltshire, England, United Kingdom

9. Stonehenge

Mysterious and compelling, Stonehenge is England’s most famous ancient site . Even though people have been drawn to this myth-laden ring of boulders for more than 5000 years, we still don’t know quite why it was built. An ultramodern makeover at the ancient site has brought an impressive visitor center and the closure of an intrusive road (now restored to grassland). The result is a strong sense of historical context, with dignity and mystery returned to an archaeological gem.

Most visitors gaze at the approximately 25-ton stones from behind the perimeter fence, yet with enough planning, you can arrange an early-morning or evening tour and gain access to the inner ring itself. In the slanting sunlight, away from the crowds, it’s an ethereal place. This is an experience that stays with you.

Actors perform pieces of Shakespeare’s plays in his birth house in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, United Kingdom

10. Stratford-upon-Avon

The pretty town of Stratford-upon-Avon is where William Shakespeare was born and later shuffled off this mortal coil. Today, its tight knot of Tudor streets form a living map of Shakespeare’s life. Huge crowds of thespians and theater lovers come to take in a play at the famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre . Bard fans will love visiting the five historic houses owned by Shakespeare and his relatives and the schoolroom where he was educated, before taking a respectful detour to the old stone church where he was laid to rest.

Buildings along the waterfront by the River Mersey, Liverpool, England, United Kingdom

11. Liverpool

It’s hard not to be infected by Liverpudlians’ love for their hometown. The love endured despite decades of decay and all manner of social ills – finding its expression in a renowned gallows humor and an obsession with football. With some of the most passionate crowds in the country, taking in a game at either Liverpool FC or Everton FC is a rite of passage here.

Outside of the stadium, the rejuvenated waterfront is once again the heart of Liverpool . The focal point is Albert Dock, an iconic docklands flanked by protected buildings, including a batch of top museums. The Merseyside Maritime Museum and the International Slavery Museum ensure the good and bad sides of Liverpool’s history are explored in equal measure, while the Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Story museum celebrate popular culture and the city’s most famous musical sons (still).

A group of older walkers on the Cotswold Way near Broadway, England, UK

12. The Cotswolds

A tangle of impossibly quaint villages of rose-clad cottages and honey-colored stone, The Cotswolds is a region that spreads over six English counties. It’s a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and its most wonderful quality is that no matter where you go or how lost you get, you’ll still end up in a spot with a charming village green, a pub with sloping floors and fine ales, and a view of the lush green hills. Crisscrossed by long-distance trails including the 102-mile Cotswold Way , these gentle yet dramatic hills are perfect for walking, cycling and horse-riding.

Local tip: It’s easy to leave the crowds behind and find your very own slice of medieval England here – and some of the best boutique hotels in the country.

People braving the rain as they attend the Whitby Goth Weekend in Whitby, Yorkshire, England, United Kingdom

A little weird, occasionally weather-beaten and all-around wonderful, the classic northern seaside town of Whitby has haunted lanes, fossil-hunting and arguably England’s finest fish-and-chips. The huddle of 18th-century fisher’s cottages along the East Cliff are testament to its longtime role as a busy commercial and fishing port: it was here that 18th-century explorer Captain James Cook earned his sea legs. Atop the West Cliff, a sandy beach, amusement arcades and promenading holidaymakers show Whitby’s beach-resort side.

Keeping a watchful eye over the town and the River Esk that divides it is an atmospheric ruined abbey , the inspiration and setting for part of Bram Stoker’s Gothic horror story Dracula . But tales of witchery and ghostly legends have haunted Whitby ever since Anglo-Saxon St Hilda landed here to found a monastic community in 657 CE.

Planning tip: The town embraces its pseudo-sinister reputation, which culminates in two hugely successful Goth Weekends each year.

Grandparents cross a stream with their grandchildren, Lake District, England, United Kingdom

14. The Lake District

William Wordsworth and his Romantic friends were the first to champion the charms of the Lake District – and it's not hard to see what stirred them. Already the UK’s most popular national park, the Lake District also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, in recognition of its long history of hill-farming. But for most people it’s the chance to hike the humpbacked fells and drink in the gorgeous scenery that keeps them returning year after year.

The region is filled with outdoor pursuits, from lake cruises to mountain walks – excursions that help reveal why the region has such deep literary connections. In addition to Wordsworth, writers who found inspiration here include Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Arthur Ransome and Beatrix Potter.

People visit the Mediterranean biome at the Eden Project, Cornwall, England, UK

15. The Eden Project

A cross between a lunar landing station and a James Bond villain’s lair, the gigantic hemispherical greenhouses of the Eden Project have become a symbol of Cornwall ’s renaissance. Built in an abandoned clay pit near St Austell to mark the start of the new millennium, and now considered one of Britain’s modern architectural wonders, the Eden Project aims to explore issues of environment and conservation, and point the way to a cleaner, greener future for us all.

Exhibits cover everything from global warming to rubber production and chocolate-making. The glass-domed “biomes” recreate major world climate systems in microcosm, from the lush jungles of the Amazon rainforest (complete with treetop walkway winding through the canopy) to the olive trees, citrus groves and colorful flowers of the Mediterranean, South Africa and California. It’s incredibly impressive – not to mention educational, and inspiring, too.

A young couple enjoying each others company outdoors in London, England, United Kingdom

Shoulder-deep in history, London ’s rich seams of eye-opening antiquity appear at every turn. The city’s architecture pens a beguiling biography, and a multitude of buildings – the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey , Big Ben – are internationally recognizable landmarks. It’s also a tireless innovator of art and culture, a city of ideas and imagination. This legacy is enshrined at world-class institutions such as the British Museum , Natural History Museum and the Science Museum , as well as such world-leading art galleries as the Tate Modern , Tate Britain , the National Gallery and the recently reopened National Portrait Gallery , all of which are free to visit.

Local tip: However you budget your time and money in London, make sure you take in a show. Big names perform on the West End (London’s equivalent of Broadway), and on the South Bank at the National Theatre and the Old Vic . Smaller theaters from the Almeida to the Lyric Hammersmith are places to discover up-an-coming talent.

This article was first published April 2021 and updated February 2024

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The 19 Best Cities to Visit in the UK

The United Kingdom, made up of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, has so much to offer as a travel destination, from historic attractions to stunning natural wonders. This article is going to focus specifically on the cities where you can experience the rich heritage and dynamic cultures of these four countries. Here is the list of the best cities to visit in the UK, from tourist favourites to lesser-known gems.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. Please note, I only recommend products and services that I know and love. Read full Privacy Policy here .

London is the most popular city to visit in the UK

London is a city that needs no introduction. The UK capital, this city is brimming with rich history, beautiful architecture and numerous activities waiting to be discovered. One trip is rarely enough to experience everything that London has to offer . There is an endless choice of fun events, amazing museums, beautiful parks, theatre shows, historic pubs, shopping opportunities and more.

London is truly vast, so it is easy to feel overwhelmed when visiting. The best way to tackle it is to approach it as a collection of towns and villages with unique personalities. Select the ones that sound the most appealing to you and start exploring from there. This blog on the best things to do in London for first timers is a great source of ideas if you are visiting the capital for the first time.

Brighton

Located on England’s south coast, bohemian Brighton brings together progressive culture, fun attractions and miles of sandy beaches. The city began its life as a fishing village. However, in the late 18 th century, King George IV fell in love with the location and made it his home. As a result, the town’s popularity increased, and economic growth ensued.

Present day visitors can experience the history of Brighton by admiring its regency architecture, visiting aristocratic mansions and heading to the historic Palace Pier to get a taste of traditional seaside fun. Brighton offers many modern activities too, from vintage shopping and independent eateries to endless gigs, comedy shows and festivals. If you’d like to get away from all the craziness, there are plenty of coastal and countryside walks right on Brighton’s doorstep.

A popular tourist destination, Cambridge is most famous for being the home of the prestigious University of Cambridge. However, the city is a great place to visit even if you’re not a student or academic. Just a one-hour train ride away from central London, this historic city founded back in 875 oozes charm and sophistication.

Explore its heritage and beautiful architecture on a walking tour, go punting on the river Cam, visit some of the famous university buildings and museums and unwind in traditional pubs and tearooms. Cambridge certainly has plenty to keep you busy.

Oxford is another historic treasure trove amongst the best cities to visit in the UK. Also called the City of Dreaming Spires, it is home to Oxford University, the oldest university in Britain. Some of the biggest names in British politics, science and culture received their education there.

Oxford has a beautiful city centre adorned with architectural masterpieces from various historic periods. Visitors to the city can tour Oxford University’s historic buildings, explore excellent museums and enjoy a pint at some of the oldest pubs in the country. Complete your experience with a trip on a punt along the idyllic River Cherwell.

Bath - arguably one of the most beautiful cities to visit in the UK

Located in the south-west of England, Bath is a small but perfectly formed city famous for its elegant Georgian architecture, Roman Baths, and connections to Jane Austen. The entire city was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, reinforcing its historic and cultural importance.

Bath offers plenty of activities for visitors. From unwinding at a spa and exploring numerous museums to savouring delicious treats at historic tea rooms and enjoying its tranquil green spaces, you are not at risk of running out of things to do.

Nestled among the green hills of South West England, Bristol is famous for its alternative vibe and creative spirit. Over the centuries, the city has played an important role in maritime trade, and at one point was England’s second city. Today, Bristol is a lively university city with a cosmopolitan identity with plenty of fun things to do.

A trip to Bristol would not be complete without experiencing its famous street art. Join a guided tour to see the works of Banksy, arguably one of the most famous street artists in the world. Many other emerging and established artists have also left their mark on Bristol. Aside from street art, Bristol is also home to fascinating historic attractions, fun festivals, burgeoning dining scene and tranquil green spaces.

Located in the county of Norfolk in Eastern England, Norwich will transport you back in time. It is an ancient city that has seen Roman and Viking invasions, an economic boom during the Middle Ages and a rise of new industries during the Industrial Revolution. More recently, in 2012, Norwich was named as England’s first UNESCO City of Literature, acknowledging its literary heritage.

Visitors to Norwich can roam cobbled lanes and alleys, admire Medieval architecture, experience a historic castle and marvel at stunning cathedrals. There are plenty of dining options for when you need to refuel. From street food at Norwich Market to fine dining establishments, there are options for every taste and budget. If you are looking to indulge in retail therapy, Norwich offers a good mix of high street retailers and independent shops.

The Midlands city of Nottingham is firmly associated with the legend of Robin Hood. You can immerse yourself in the stories of this Medieval hero by visiting the historic Nottingham Castle, taking a selfie with the famous Robin Hood statue, taking a fun guided tour or exploring the trails of the Sherwood Forest.

However, the legendary outlaw is not the only reason to visit Nottingham. Explore a fascinating network of caves that lie beneath the city, have a pint at one of the oldest pubs in England or learn about the city’s history in one of its museums. There is also plenty of independent cafes, restaurants and breweries for when you need to re-fuel.

Located in the Northwest of England, Manchester is the third largest urban area in the UK. The city has a rich history of science, innovation, the arts, and civil thought. Manchester saw the dawn of the industrial revolution and inspired political changes including the Suffragette movement and communist theories.

The Manchester of today is proud of its heritage but looking towards the future. Major investment is transforming the city making it an even more exciting place to visit. From traditional art galleries and historic sights to a vibrant music scene and a dining renaissance, there is lots to see and do in Manchester.

To find out more about this ever-evolving city, check out this article on how to spend the perfect weekend in Manchester .

Thinking about relocating to Manchester? This guide to living in Manchester will give you the lowdown on life in this dynamic city.

Ksenia standing outside just outside Eastgate with the Eastgate Clock in the background.

A charming Cheshire gem, Chester is amongst the best cities to visit in the UK for a short break, with plenty of attractions, events and dining options waiting to be discovered. Just over an hour’s drive from Manchester, the city boasts a unique blend of different historic periods, from Roman times to modern comforts.

Chester was founded by the Romans over 2,000 years ago and their presence is still evident in the impressive city walls and the largest amphitheatre in Britain. You can experience the city’s Medieval side by visiting its majestic cathedral and exploring the Rows – historic two-tiered structures with covered walkways featuring shops, bars and eateries.

If you are heading to Chester for a day trip, check out this itinerary that will help you to make the most of everything the city has to offer.

Liverpool is one of the most popular cities to visit in the UK and with good reason. Firmly associated with the Beatles, fans can connect with the band in many ways. You can learn more about the history of the Fab Four at the Beatles Story, catch a gig at the legendary Cavern Club and even visit Paul McCartney’s and John Lennon’s childhood homes.

There is plenty to explore beyond the Beatles though. From world-class museums and art galleries to excellent dining and famous cathedrals, Liverpool has something for everyone. If you are planning to spend a couple of days in the city, this article on the best things to do in Liverpool is the perfect starting point for creating your itinerary.

Another Yorkshire gem, Leeds is a great UK city break destination offering shopping, dining and cultural attractions. Between the 17 th and mid-20 th century Leeds was an industrial powerhouse. Unfortunately, centuries of prosperity and growth were followed by significant decline.

Thankfully, through investment and re-invention, Leeds is now an educational and cultural centre with its fortunes, once again, being on the up. From art galleries and historic architecture to designer boutiques and independent restaurants, the city has something for everyone. It is also a great starting point for exploring the spectacular Yorkshire countryside.

If you’re considering a trip to this city, check out this guide on how to spend one day in Leeds .

Add picturesque York you your list of the best historic cities to visit in the UK.

Without a doubt, York is a must-visit UK city for history lovers. Located in Yorkshire, the early history of the city was shaped by the Romans, Vikings and Normans. Thanks to trade and political significance, the city enjoyed a growth in prosperity in the Middle Ages. Visitors can get a sense of what life would have been like then by visiting York’s well-preserved city centre.

With its cobbled lanes, medieval architecture and imposing protective walls, York invites visitors to travel back in time. To learn about the city’s past, visit York’s famous gothic cathedral, explore its world-class museums or join one of the many guided tours. Along the way, check out traditional shop fronts on The Shambles, one of Britain’s most beautiful streets. In-between sight-seeing, enjoy excellent dining at independent restaurants and cafes scattered around the city.

Learn more about the best things to do in York in this guide .

Located in northeast England, the city of Durham is famous for its 11 th century cathedral and castle that make up Durham UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was founded by the monks of Lindisfarne in 995. They chose the location where the city now stands as the final resting place of Saint Cuthbert, the patron saint of Northern England. They first built a wooden church that eventually became the site of the famous cathedral that we can see today.

However, Durham’s heritage attractions do not end there. History lovers can wander its cobbled medieval lanes, visit a host of fascinating museums and explore beautiful historic houses. Film buffs can enjoy spotting filming locations from famous movies and TV programmes, including Harry Potter films, Downton Abbey and Victoria.

Edinburgh - one of the most popular cities to visit in the UK.

With its stunning architecture, fascinating history and rich cultural offerings, it is not surprising that the capital of Scotland is one the most well-known cities to visit in the UK. Walk the cobbled alleyways of medieval Old Town, admire beautiful Georgian architecture in New Town, and visit Edinburgh’s many world-class attractions.

On your visit to Edinburgh, you can marvel at an iconic castle, climb an ancient volcano, descend into the city’s underground vaults to learn about the darker side of its history, and explore excellent museums and art galleries. The city’s cosy cafes, historic pubs and inviting restaurants are a great place to unwind and re-fuel.

When it comes to tourist destinations, Scotland’s biggest city, Glasgow is often overshadowed by Edinburgh. However, that doesn’t mean that this gritty city is not worth a visit. Glasgow has a rich history that can be traced back all the way to the 6 th century. Visitors can experience it through the many museums and historic sites that the city has to offer.

Glasgow also boasts a vibrant nightlife, excellent shopping, acclaimed street art and an ever-growing selection of trendy restaurants and bars. To top this off, the city is a great gateway for Scotland’s natural beauty spots. The iconic Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is just over an hour’s drive away.

Inverness - the capital of the Scottish Highlands

Located in the northeast of Scotland, Inverness is the capital of the Scottish Highlands. With the famous Loch Ness and the natural wonders of the Highlands right on its doorstep, it is no surprise that it is considered one of the best cities to visit in the UK. It is a great option for a weekend break or as a base for a longer holiday.

There is plenty to see and do in Inverness itself. Explore the historic city centre complete with a neo-Norman Castle, visit museums and art galleries or relax in the beautiful Botanic Gardens. Inverness is also home to a raft of restaurant and pubs perfect for those who would like to try the best of Scottish fare.

The capital of Wales, Cardiff was once a small port town. It was transformed during the Industrial Revolution with the development of coal and iron ore mining. These industries fuelled the expansion of the city. Eventually it became the largest city in Wales and recognised as the capital in 1955.

Present day Cardiff is a compact city brimming with activities and events. From ancient castles to elegant shopping arcades to famous sporting grounds, Cardiff has something for every traveller. The city also has a vibrant music scene with its various venues hosting rising stars, international legends and everything in-between.

Stunning architecture of Belfast, a rising star amongst the best cities to visit in the UK.

Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, has a troubled past. Its modern history began in the 17 th century when Baron Chichester built a castle there. The town around it quickly grew, eventually becoming a busy port and the centre of the global linen trade. In the late 20 th century, these industries declined and the city experienced decades of political and religious strife.

Today, Belfast is re-emerging as one of the best cities to visit in the UK. The city has a rich heritage that you can experience in one of its many museums. Belfast is also the birthplace of Titanic. You can learn about the history of this ill-fated ship at the Belfast Titanic Museum. Fans of the Game of Thrones TV series can explore the filming locations scattered in and around Belfast. When you need to take a break, there is a myriad of pubs, cafes and restaurants serving up delicious fare.

Final Thoughts

This list of the best cities to visit in the UK is by no means exhaustive. However, it is a great starting point for planning your own UK adventure.

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The 24 best cities to visit in the UK

Updated On 23rd May, 2022

If you’re on the lookout for the best cities to visit in the UK, you’ve come to the right place. There are so many beautiful places to visit in the UK , and even with the amount of nature and stunning views on offer in the UK National Parks , the cities are still a great place to spend a weekend. In this post, we highlight our top cities to visit in the UK, across England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .

The UK is home to 76 cities, with 55 in England , eight in Scotland , seven in Wales and six in Northern Ireland. There are cities to visit in the UK whether you’re looking for a full weekend away, a day trip, places to visit in the UK as a couple, as a solo traveller, or with friends.

If you’re visiting the UK for the first time, sightseeing in some of the UK’s more popular cities such as London , Cambridge and York is bound to be on your UK bucket list. However, if you live in the UK or you’ve been multiple times, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t explore some of the best cities in the UK too. In short… there are loads of awesome places to visit in the UK , and there really is something for everyone!

Think of this blog post as the ultimate cities in the UK bucket list. If you’re looking for the top things to do in the UK , this is the post for you. We’ve taken all the highlights from our UK blog posts and created a best cities in the UK travel guide for you which will give you some of the best places to visit in the UK .

Other travel guides you might find useful…

England Travel Guide
30 of the best places to visit in the UK
The ultimate guide to planning a UK road trip
A UK road trip checklist: Things to remember
The best things to do in Scotland
The best things to do in England
Top 15 things to do in Wales
The best places to visit in Northern Ireland
Europe: The Ultimate Travel Guide
22 top tips for travelling in Europe

The best cities to visit in the UK...

1. bangor, northern ireland.

Bangor is one of the newest cities in the UK, having been awarded city status as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022. It’s one of the most popular places to visit in Northern Ireland and is known for being a lovely seaside city. You’ve got Bangor Marina and the seaside promenade for a wander and a coffee, Bangor Castle and the Walled Garden for spring-time exploring, and the nice coastal path between Bangor and Holyhead, which all make for a lovely weekend away!

Did you know that there is also a town in Wales called Bangor? Here’s our weekend guide to Bangor, Wales.

2. Bath, England

Bath is definitely one of the prettiest places to visit in the UK and one of the best cities to spend a weekend in. It’s particularly lovely at Christmas, where you have some of the best Christmas markets in the UK . Don’t fret if you want to visit at a different time of year though, as there is still plenty of things to do in Bath for a weekend: the Thermae Bath Spa and the Roman baths, Bath Abbey, as well as museums, galleries and plenty of afternoon tea.

Check out these 18 unique things to do in England.

3. Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast is a stunning port city with a troubled past, but worthy of a place on this list of the best cities to visit in the UK. With a great food scene and nightlife, as well as plenty of history to learn (don’t miss seeing the Peace Walls), there’s plenty to do in the capital of Northern Ireland.

See all the best things to do in Belfast here.

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4. Brighton, England

Brighton has got to be one of the best cities to visit in the UK, with its colourful streets , awesome nightlife, inclusive community (it’s one of the best LGBTQ+ destinations ) and wonderful seaside city vibe. As well as the usual fish and chips on the pier and arcade games, when you’re in Brighton don’t miss shopping in the lanes, checking out the music scene, cycling along the coast ad checking out any pop up events that are going on.

A weekend guide to Brighton
The most colourful streets in Brighton

A Weekend Guide To Brighton, England: The best things to do in Brighton

5. Bristol, England

Bristol is an epicentre of creativity and one of the best cities to visit in the UK if you love the arts. Home to a fascinating but important history, here you can see some of Banksy’s best street art, take in the stunning views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and attend the annual balloon fiesta as well as enjoying the food scene and admiring the beautiful architecture.

See all the best things to do in Bristol here.

The best things to do in Bristol, England

6. Cambridge, England

Known all over the world for the famous university, you must visit Cambridge if you are visiting England. From punting on the river to a guided tour of one of the university colleges, there are plenty of things to do in one of the best cities to visit in the UK. There are also museums to visit, as well as there being wonderful architecture to look at and independent cafes to enjoy a cuppa in.

Check out the best things to do in Cambridge in this blog post.

The best things to do and see in Cambridge

7. Cardiff, Wales

Cardiff is the capital of Wales and definitely one of the best cities to visit in the UK for a weekend away. It’s got a buzzing sports culture, with football, rugby and ice hockey matches on regularly, as well as thriving art and food scenes. For those of you who love castles, Cardiff is one of the best places to visit in the UK ; Caerphilly Castle, the second largest castle in Britain, is on the outskirts of Cardiff, as it Castell Coch, and both are worth a visit. The fun doesn’t stop there… if you love being active, Cardiff is the place for you. You can do everything from a gentle walk around Cardiff Bay to getting your adrenaline running at Cardiff International White Water.

See all the best things to do in Wales here.

8. Coventry, England

One of the most underrated cities in the UK, it’s not somewhere you see often on lists of the best cities to visit in the UK. However, it’s worth a trip! Coventry is the UK City of Culture 2021 and it’s just one hour from London by train, making it one of the best day trips from London . With an up-and-coming arts and culture scene, a rich Medieval history and the stunning Coventry Cathedral, there’s plenty to see and do.

Check out our travel guide on the best places to visit in England here.

9. Derry-Londonderry, Northern Ireland

Fans of Derry Girls , this is the place for you. Derry-Londonderry is the only completely walled city in the UK, and it was the first UK City of Culture. Add this to some very important history (don’t miss the symbolic Peace Bridge or the city walls) and some “legenderry” food, there are plenty of reasons why Derry-Londonderry is one of the best cities to visit in the UK.

See all the best places to visit in Northern Ireland here.

10. Edinburgh, Scotland

Hiking up an ancient volcano (Arthur’s Seat), exploring the Dungeons and the Castle, wandering around the streets of the Old Town… What’s not to love about Edinburgh?! All of this plus the museums, shopping and food on offer here make Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, one of the best cities to visit in the UK! Visit in the summer and you get the added fun of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival too!

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Edinburgh.

Scotland Google Map Legend

With this Google Map, you can have all my tips and recommendations at the touch of your fingertips. These are all the things I wish I knew and spent a lot of time researching before my 4-week adventure. This Google Map Legend includes:

Best walks, hikes, viewpoints, beaches and activities
Lochs and waterfalls to visit
Road trip tips (campsites, laundrettes, lunch spots)
My favourite places for coffee, brunch and dinner
Things you must add to your bucket list!
Travel guide links within each location

11. Exeter, England

Exeter is right in the heart of Devon , with easy transport links to Dartmoor National Park , Exmoor National Park and the coast. This makes it the perfect weekend break in the UK! Close to some of the best beaches in England and some of the best walks and hikes in England , full of Norman history and beautiful places such as Exeter Cathedral and the Historic Quayside, and home to a buzzing arts, culture and music scene, there are many reasons why Exeter is one of the best cities to visit in the UK.

The best things to do in Devon
A complete guide to Dartmoor National Park
A complete guide to Exmoor National Park

12. Glasgow, Scotland

Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music, so if that doesn’t make it one of the best cities to visit in the UK, I don’t know what does! It’s also home to some world-class museums, over 90 parks and green spaces, and it’s a great base for visiting other areas on a West Scotland road trip! It might not be the capital, but it’s still one of the best places to visit in Scotland .

Check out our weekend guide to Glasgow here.

13. Leeds, England

Restaurants, art, theatre, music, shopping, nightlife and festivals… these are just some of the things that make Leeds such a vibrant city. It’s a hubbub of creativity, and a student city, so great for those of you travelling on a budget. Don’t miss heading to Kirkgate Market (home to the first Marks & Spencer), enjoying the amazing food scene, or exploring the independent boutiques in the Arcades. And hey, if you love outdoors activities, Leeds is really close to the Yorkshire Dales so you can extend your weekend break there!

The best things to do in Leeds
A weekend guide to Leeds

14. Liverpool, England

Home to The Beatles, a great football team and a vibrant waterfront area, there are many reasons to visit Liverpool, a UNESCO World Heritage listed city. It might feel a little rough around the edges and have a grungy charm, but it’s arty, it’s liberal and here you’ll find some of the friendliest people in England. And you can’t miss the cathedral: the largest church in the UK by area, and the longest cathedral in the world.

See the best things to do in England here.

15. London, England

Where to start with London… there are so many things to see and do here that it can’t not be on this list of the best cities to visit in the UK. World-famous landmarks and museums, great restaurants, awesome London markets to explore and lots of places for cocktails , there’s lots of choice. Whether you’re looking for things to do in London in summer , things to do in London in winter , things to do in London when it’s raining , and even free things to do in London , there’s something for everyone here. If it’s your first visit, start with this sightseeing walk around London so that you see the all the main landmarks such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge and Westminster Abbey. Then treat yourself to afternoon tea in London !

See all the best things to do in London here.

A complete guide to exploring London during Winter

London Google Map Legend

With this Google Map, you can have all my tips and recommendations at the touch of your fingertips. These are all the things I wish I knew and spent a lot of time researching before my adventure. You’re welcome.

This Google Map Legend includes:

Best walks, viewpoints and activities
Best things to do in Summer and Winter in London
Free things to do in the city
The best markets, shopping areas, parks and galleries to visit
Our favourite places for coffee, brunch and dinner
Travel tips to help you on the go

16. Manchester, England

Manchester is one of the most exciting cities to visit in the UK at the moment. Famous for it’s football team, it’s also home to a great music scene and nightlife, beautiful architecture, creativity and culture. It’s a city where old meets new: old Victorian markets are Instagram-friendly food halls, and the infamous red-brick mills have now become independent art hubs. From the creative Northern Quarter to the foodie centre of Ancoats, as well as lots of independent shops and cafes to explore, there are lots of things to do in Manchester for a weekend.

17. Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Another city that is passionate about football, Newcastle is also worth exploring! In the city centre you can have dinner on the Quayside, visit the landmarks such as the Tyne Bridge and the castle, spend a day exploring the museums, and then enjoy the nightlife after dark. Outside the city, Newcastle is just a short drive from the Northumberland Coast AONB and Northumberland National Park , so you can plan a trip that includes city fun and nature!

18. Norwich, England

Norwich is the gateway to The Broads National Park , so it’s no surprise that it’s one of the best cities to visit in the UK. As well as the breathtaking Norwich Cathedral, there are lots of other pretty churches to see, and lots of pubs to visit for lunch. The saying goes that Norwich has a church for every week, but a pub for every day! You can also have lunch and coffee at Norwich Market, or take a picnic to Eaton Park.

19. Oxford, England

Full of interesting culture, history and architecture, the world-famous university is not the only reason to visit Oxford. From punting on the river to dipping in and out of independent bookshops, or exploring the museums. This is one of the best cities to visit in the UK for Harry Potter fans, who might recognise lots of the landmarks from the films!

20. Southampton, England

Best known for its ties to the Titanic, Southampton is an underrated port city in the UK that you must visit. It’s great for shopping, walks along the river, learning about UK naval history, and visiting the large variety of art exhibitions on offer here. It’s also one of the cities in the UK that you catch the ferry to the Isle of Wight from, another of the best places to visit in the UK .

21. Swansea, Wales

Seaside charm, plenty of culture, and loads of surround natural beauty, Swansea is one of the best cities to visit in the UK. It’s a waterfront city so you can enjoy fish and chips on the pier, but you can also escape to the beach at The Mumbles and explore more of the Gower Peninsula if you want more than the numerous green spaces on offer in town. In Swansea you can also get some great fresh seafood, and explore Swansea Market, the largest indoor market in Wales.

See all the best things to do in Swansea Bay here.

The best things to do in Swansea | Planning your trip to Wales | Where's Mollie? A travel and adventure lifestyle blog

Wales Google Map Legend

With this Google Map, you can have all my tips and recommendations at the touch of your fingertips. These are all the things I wish I knew and spent a lot of time researching before my Wales adventures. This Google Map Legend includes:

Best walks, hikes, viewpoints and activities
Best waterfalls, beaches and coves to visit

22. Truro, England

Truro is the southernmost city on the British mainland, and the perfect base for exploring Cornwall . Home to a Gothic Revival cathedral, it’s one of the best cities in the UK to enjoy a relaxing day wandering around town, doing a bit of shopping and cafe hopping. Take a boat trip between Truro and Falmouth or go hiking in the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Beauty once you’ve explored the city.

See all the best things to do in Cornwall here.

Cornwall Google Map Legend

With this Google Map, you can have all my tips and recommendations at the touch of your fingertips. These are all the things I wish I knew and spent a lot of time researching before my Cornwall adventures. This Google Map Legend includes:

Best beaches and coves to visit

23. Winchester, England

Winchester used to be the capital of England, and it’s the perfect place to visit in the UK if you’re looking for a good day trip. Famous for the 11th century cathedral, the Great Hall which has housed King Arthur’s Round Table for over 700 years, as well as for being the home of cricket, hosting the country’s largest farmer’s market and being the resting place for Jane Austen, there are many reasons why Winchester is one of the best cities to visit in the UK.

Winchester is also right on the edge of the South Downs, making it the perfect base for exploring here too. See the best things to do in South Downs National Park in this blog post.

24. York, England

Roman ruins and a medieval cathedral – York is just full of history and one of the best cities to visit in the UK if you are a history buff. Wander around the cobbled streets, marvel at York Minster, go shopping along The Shambles, walk around the city walls, all topped off with afternoon tea at Betty’s… there are so many things to do in York. York is also a great base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales or the North York Moors .

What are your favourite cities in the UK?

Where are your favourite places to visit in the UK ? Anything you’d add to this best cities to visit in the UK travel guide?

Passionate about adventure and creativity. Currently enjoying the sunshine while teaching English in southern Italy.

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IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE.

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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8 best cities to visit in England and what you can do in each

Planning a trip to England ? Don’t just dip your toes into London . While the English capital is certainly a treat to explore, England has so much more to offer. From wild moors to football stadiums, England’s cities boast a wide variety of landscapes, attractions, and cultural experiences. We’ve narrowed down a list of eight top cities in England that you should add to your itinerary.

1. Brighton

Described as the U.K.’s hippest city, Brighto n is a seaside resort on the south coast of England. The pebbled Brighton Beach may deter some sunbathers, but there’s plenty to do at Brighton Palace Pier , from amusement rides to restaurants. Join a walking tour to explore the rest of the city, from the quirky Royal Pavilion to the eclectic independent shops in The Lanes and North Laine . This food tour will introduce you to more hidden gems and local hotspots.

When to visit: May to September for warmer and drier weather. Avoid July and August, when it’s peak tourist season.

Getting here: Traveling by train is usually the fastest way to get to Brighton from London. If you’re flying, Gatwick Airport is a 20-minute train journey from Brighton Railway Station .

Where to stay:

Beachside relaxation: A Room With A View
City living: Ibis Brighton City Center

2. Manchester

Located in northwest England, Manchester is a city of many talents. Not only is it the world’s first industrial city , but Manchester is also home to a thriving arts and music scene as well as two major English football teams. Immerse yourself in Manchester’s culture on this walking tour , or learn more about the city’s long history through its food . Football fans, don’t miss out on the National Football Museum and the Manchester City Stadium Tour at Etihad Stadium . The John Rylands Library is also worth a visit—its stunning Gothic architecture will make you feel like you’re in Hogwarts.

When to visit: June to August for festivals and fine weather; September to December for football season.

Getting here: Land in Manchester International Airport , or take the train from London to Manchester Piccadilly or Victoria .

Sophisticated boutique hotel: Dakota Manchester
Fully-equipped apartments: Roomzzz Aparthotel Manchester Victoria

Clifton Suspension Bridge with hot air balloons in Bristol

Bristol is a quirky port city situated on the River Avon with a hilly landscape. It was a key city during the Industrial Revolution when engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel built and designed the Great Western Railway, the world’s first great ocean liner , and the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol. Today, you can still visit many of these Victorian-era landmarks and learn more about the historical figures who put Bristol on the map. Sail around the Bristol Harbor on a ferry boat , enjoy a night of magic and comedy at Smoke & Mirrors , or soar over the countryside on a hot air balloon —you’ll quickly understand why Bristol has been named one of the best places to live in the U.K.

When to visit: Late spring and early fall for comfortable weather.

Getting here: Bristol Temple Meads is the largest rail hub in west England, and Bristol Airport welcomes flights across Europe.

Quayside views: The Bristol
Victorian glamor: Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel

History buffs might know York as the ancient Roman city of Eboracum. Today, York is one of the most popular cities in England, with people all over the world traveling here to admire its medieval buildings. Stroll through York’s historic streets with a guide or embark on a hop-on hop-off bus tour to conveniently explore sights like York Minster , Shambles , and the York City Walls . For an alternative history of York, this award-winning tou r will regale you with tales of witches, queens, and murderers.

When to visit: York sees maximum sunshine from May through July. If you can put up with random cold snaps, the city is also exceptionally stunning in spring.

Getting here: The closest international airport is Leeds Bradford International Airport, but it’s far more convenient to travel from Manchester Airport via the TransPennine Express.

Five-star historic hotel: The Grand
Affordable bed and breakfast: B+B York

Umbrellas hanging in the streets of Durham

Nestled on the River Wear , Durham is a charming small city in northeast England. Discover how Durham rose to spiritual prominence and visit Durham Cathedral , which has been a center of pilgrimage for close to a thousand years. This self-guided audio tour is also an easy and convenient way to explore Durham’s highlights and history. Durham Castle , built by William the Conqueror, served as a strategic stronghold to defend England from Scottish armies. Today, the castle is home to Durham University, the third-oldest university in England.

When to visit: Temperatures in Durham are cold for most of the year, so it’s best to visit between June and September when it’s comfortably warm.

Getting here: Durham station is situated on the East Coast Main Line, while Newcastle Airport is 30 minutes away from Durham.

Romantic neighborhood: Hotel Indigo Durham
Buzzing university town: Premier Inn Hotel Durham City Centre (Walkergate)

People siting on green grass field in Dover

With natural landscapes and historic architecture, Dover is one of the most scenic cities in England. Known as the “key to England,” Dover Castle was founded in the 11th century and has stood tall through multiple wars. Explore the ferry port on a minibus tour , take a breezy walk along St Margaret’s Bay Beach , and hike the magnificent White Cliffs of Dover , where you can spot the iconic South Foreland Lighthouse and discover the cliffs’ hidden tunnels .

When to visit: Avoid autumn and winter, when rain and wind will prevent you from venturing outdoors.

Getting here: Direct trains lead from London to Dover in just 55 minutes, and cruise ships and ferries dock at the Port of Dover.

Cozy bed and breakfast: Bleriot’s
Sea views: Best Western Plus Dover Marina Hotel & Spa

7. Liverpool

“ Penny Lane is in my ears and in my eyes…” In the 1960s, the Beatles catapulted Liverpool into international fame. Today, visitors can walk in the Fab Four’s footsteps , pose for a picture by their iconic statue , and dive into the story of the band’s rise to fame . This award-winning hop-on hop-off bus tour will also take you to sights like Strawberry Field and John Lennon’s childhood home . But there’s more to Liverpool than just the Beatles. Learn about the city’s vast history on a guided tour around Royal Albert Dock , admire the grand Liverpool Cathedral , and join the LFC stadium tour of Anfield Stadium .

When to visit: January for snow; April to August for festivals and warm weather.

Getting here: Liverpool’s main station is Lime Street station . Cruises dock at the Port of Liverpool , and the Liverpool John Lennon Airport connects the city to the rest of Europe.

By the docks: Staybridge Suites
Surrounded by bars and restaurants: The Resident

Whether you’re on a solo trip or traveling with family , you’ll never feel bored in London. The biggest and most populous city in England, London is a diverse metropolis that celebrates its past while racing towards the future.

Where else can you explore a 1000-year fortress and climb a skyscraper all on the same day? And if you ever feel like getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city, there are plenty of other sights in the vicinity . You can even see Windsor Castle , Stonehenge , and Oxford in a single day on this guided tour .

When to visit: Check out our guide to the best times to visit London and plan your itinerary around these annual events .

Getting here: Most international flights land at Heathrow Airport or Gatwick Airport . London is also the center of the National Rail network, connecting to the rest of England via King’s Cross and Euston .

Unparalleled luxury: Hotel 41
Prime location: The Resident Covent Garden
Discover the 6 best neighborhoods to stay in London

Recommended tours and activities

The best UK city breaks to take in 2024

By Rick Jordan

UK city breaks the 13 best to take in 2024

So many places to visit in the UK , so little time. For a quick trip, we've rounded up the best UK city breaks to take in 2024, in no particular order, as selected by the editors of Condé Nast Traveller . Thankfully, the UK is flecked with diverse cities packed with world-class museums, some of the world's best restaurants and bars, cute bakeries, beautiful parks and gorgeous shops. Think weekenders in Edinburgh for incredible food and a serious culture hit; short hops to quirky Bristol or honey-hued Bath ; or fast-paced overnight stays in gritty Birmingham or artsy Manchester . Below, we've also recommended the Traveller team's places to bed down while on one of our 13 favourite UK city breaks – to make planning your next jaunt away as simple as possible. Now you just have to decide which to do first.

Which UK city break is best?

There are 76 cities in the UK – 55 in England, eight in Scotland, seven in Wales and six in Northern Ireland. Here, we recommend our 13 favourites for a break. We like Edinburgh and Glasgow in Scotland, Belfast in Northern Ireland and Swansea in Wales, as well as Bristol, Birmingham, Bath and beyond in England.

1. Edinburgh

The beautiful city

After almost two years of muted activity, it’s heartening to see that the pandemic hasn’t affected Edinburgh ’s ability to wow visitors. After a long period of darkness, theatres and venues are back in business, with the Gallery of Modern Art showcasing new acquisitions including Dali’s famous lobster telephone and works from Sarah Lucas. There’s brilliant food at West End bistro The Palmerston, which elevates comfort food – roast partridge, crispy pig’s head croquettes – to a whole new level (its owners previously worked at Skye Gyngell ’s Spring and The Harwood Arms), while Edinburgh veggie legend Henderson’s has reopened at Bruntsfield Links, doing wonderful things with cauliflower, roasted carrots, pumpkin and sage. And you can carry on till the wee hours at Casablanca Cocktail Club in the House of Gods hotel on Cowgate. Owned by Glasgow-born hotelier Mike Baxter, this outrageously decadent venture is inspired by 1970s maximalism and makes Studio 54 look like a village hall. “After 11.30pm, when the pubs close, we’re letting the party carry on,” Baxter says over its signature cocktail, a mix of gin, pomegranate, hibiscus and citrus, served in a Chanel No. 5 bottle with a silver straw. “There’s this idea that we’re coming into the Roaring Twenties, and I think that’s true.” If it is true, a dramatic city like Edinburgh might just be the place to usher them in.

Where to stay: The Observatory House , a grand, astronomical observatory perched on Calton Hill and owned by the Collective Art Gallery, is set to be Edinburgh’s most impressive Airbnb . Inside are paintings and sculptures from Edinburgh contemporary artists Rabiya Choudhry and Rachel Adams – as well as a circular Gothic tower with 360-degree views of the city. For something more down to earth, Cheval Old Town Chambers are a collection of chic, family-friendly serviced apartments with an airy, laidback new restaurant , Luckenbooth’s, named after the wooden booths which once housed The Royal Mile’s shops. To be where it's buzzing, the city's most exciting newcomer is Gleneagles Townhouse , the little sister hotel and members club to beloved Gleneagles in rural Perthshire. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Edinburgh . By Lucy Sweet

The wide-awake city

While it might not have Edinburgh’s chiselled profile, Glasgow ’s wide-open outdoor spaces, architecture and full-throttle nightlife could still steal your heart in 2024. It shone as host of the UN’s climate-change summit in November 2021 so there’s a hopeful feeling in the air. Glasgow was built to survive hard knocks, even Covid-shaped ones, and continues to flourish with some wildly creative plans in the works. SWG3, a sprawling events and arts complex in the west of the city, is at the centre of a new multimillion-pound project to redevelop the neglected Clydeside. A rooftop restaurant, sculpture garden and street-art-and-graffiti district are set to transform the area. “The night-time economy is still really important, but there’s so much more daytime activity now,” says SWG3 founder Andrew Fleming-Brown. “We’re interested in food, workspaces, community gardens and growing space.”

Food and drink are also taking centre stage. ("People used to want to be on the guest list for the venue," says Fleming-Brown, “now they want the food.”) Artisan bakeries and coffee shops abound, putting those lazy deep-fried stereotypes to rest. And the city got a Michelin star – the first restaurant in Glasgow for almost two decades – for well-established West End restaurant Cail Bruich, where chef Lorna McNee spins Scottish produce into gold. Also in the West End, an ornate renovated Victorian garage on Vinicombe Street is now a foodie hub – it’s home to South-east Asian favourite Ka Pao, with Glasgow seafood legends Crabshakk also touted to move in. Round the corner, Six by Nico took over the former Fopp record shop on Byres Road. As for that night-time economy, in the Southside, Luchador is a new restaurant inspired by Mexican wrestling, with a speakeasy in the basement.

Then of course, there’s Finnieston, the ever-evolving area close to the proposed Clydeside development. Here, the Kelvingrove Café, a cocktail and brunch spot serving DIY Bloody Mary kits, slap-up brunches and wood-fired pizza, has recently undergone a huge refurbishment. General manager Kirstie Addis is optimistic: “Glasgow’s the most open, honest and friendly city with such a thriving social scene. It’s often eclipsed by Edinburgh, but it’s got so much more to offer.” By Lucy Sweet

Where to stay: No other hotel in Glasgow is more intimately connected to the city than Voco Grand Central Hotel Glasgow – even its walls form two sides of the Central Station. Rooms here are comfortable and contemporary yet retain enough of their Victorian swank (and quirks) to lift them out of the ordinary. For something cheap and cheerful, Yotel Glasgow is hard to beat in terms of price (low), convenience (high) and style (quirky but fine if it is the kind of quirkiness that makes you happy).

The screen-favourite city

Where once bright young things absconded to bigger cities, those same locals are now driving a wave of indie restaurants, pop-ups and creative ventures. A relatively small city, Belfast is becoming increasingly cosmopolitan while retaining its soul. To get a sense of it, a Black Taxi Tour will give you the lay of the land, while climbing the mighty Cavehill in the country park just outside town will give you a different slant on the city. The Cathedral Quarter has been the scene for many a bar crawl – try The John Hewitt, named for the much-loved local poet, The Duke of York with its mural walls or the Sunflower – but there are other reasons to wander the streets. We like Rollerboy for elevated sausage rolls, while eclectic deli Sawers is known for its cheese counter and traybakes.

Outside the centre, Belfast’s suburbs have blossomed. In East, Boundary Brewery ferments its own craft beers on-site, while Freight serves brunch and themed dinner menus with a view of CS Lewis Square, which a local market and skaters call home. Along South Belfast’s Ormeau Road, there are bulbous bomboloni at Bread and Banjo bakery and vegan goodies at the 387 café. Fruit Shop café is a not-so-secret gem – seeded by local eco-artists intent on grassroots growing initiatives, its menu includes local lovelies such as fermented rhubarb tonics, Bara Bakehouse sourdough and aubergine galettes made with Cavehill wild garlic. The Dublin Road and Botanic areas traverse a global palate: The Chilli House, Cuban Sandwich Factory, Madame Pho and the recently refurbished Nora’s Palace with falafel the size of your head. Award-winning chef Marty Murphy’s latest venture, tapas restaurant Ora, has natural wines and plates such as pickled chilli crab and Manchego Caesar tacos.

With the local film and TV industry booming – there were whispers of Nicole Kidman 'gramming her morning coffee outside the City Hall – Belfast draws in location-hunters seeking a Netflix or Hollywood fix. Catch the best independent films at the Queen’s Film Theatre, contemporary art at the Golden Thread Gallery, photography at Belfast Exposed, comedy and improv at Accidental Theatre and The Black Box, poetry readings at the No Alibis bookshop – and annual gatherings such as the electronic music and arts AVA Festival in September and the Belfast International Arts Festival in October. Above all, Belfast has kept its counter-culture spirit, rooted in punk and a thriving techno scene. Dress the part by browsing Young Savage vintage shop, and stop in at Voodoo Soup for vinyl, before heading to LGBTQ+ haven Kremlin. Belfast is a city moving to its own beat. By Anna Cafolla

Where to stay: Housed in sublimely restored Victorian merchants' residence, The Harrison 's 16 rooms have distinct personalities, all oozing character and fun from bathtubs in the bedrooms, thick velvet curtains, and dramatic antique furnishings. We also rate the Bullitt Hotel , a hip hotel upstart in the city centre that offers a no-nonsense, no-frills, yet still fun and stylish stay. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Belfast .

The independent city

The biggest splash for Bristol is The Wave, an incredible man-made surfing lagoon that's the first of its kind in England, casting out more than 1,000 waves an hour across its 200-metre surface. It opened in 2018 and the city has been busy surfing other scenes ever since.

As for places to eat, one of the best restaurants in Bristol is the innovative, vegetable-centric Root in Wapping Wharf, and zero-waste café Vegetable Diva opened on Brandon Quay, set up by local food nutritionist Sonya Devi-Clarke – try her beet bourguignon and citrus-and-fennel salad. And in Clifton, there's the Spanish-themed Bar 44, while Koocha Mezze Bar has brought a Persian-style concept to Stokes Croft.

Bristol also has some of the best small-scale breweries in the UK – aficionados attend the Bristol Craft Beer Festival in June. And you can map out a museum tour all year round – making sure to visit Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, and Being Brunel museum, which includes the great Victorian's last cigar and original dock office. More showmanship can be found at the Bristol Old Vic, which reopened in 2018 with a new foyer and a programme. By Annabel Herrick

Where to stay: New boutique accommodation includes Avon Gorge in Clifton, overlooking Bristol’s famous suspension bridge, while Artist Residence opened in 2021 in a converted boot factory, following other outposts in Oxfordshire, Penzance and London.

5. Cambridge

The architectural city

The idea of Cambridge as being more fashionable in 2022 than in any other year since, say, 1219 – that is, 10 years after a few ratbag scholar-monks who had just been booted out of Oxford pitched their mead-soaked encampments on the banks of the River Cam – is, on the one hand, frankly risible. Cambridge does not do fashionable. Never has. Never will. It is not that kind of place.

On the other hand, there are two very good reasons why Cambridge is a comfortable UK city breaks right now. First among them is the reopening of the University Arms hotel a few years ago, which has been given a new lease of life by architect John Simpson and interiors guru Martin Brudnizki. By coincidence, Kettle’s Yard gallery, a 10-minute walk from the hotel, has also reopened after a dramatic expansion at roughly the same time as the University Arms. Which is the second reason why 2023 will be such a good year for visitors to Cambridge. Kettle’s Yard, with its exceptional collection of 20th-century British and European art, is one of the most intimate, idiosyncratic and moving exhibition spaces in the UK – quite as marvellous, in its one-of-a-kind way, as Cambridge itself. And not even remotely fashionable. By Steve King

Where to stay: Just off Mill Road, Vaiva’s chic Victorian terrace Airbnb has space for six guests and a sunny garden , so make the most of the bright, minimalist property by gathering a group of friends and renting bikes to freewheel along the River Cam. For a hotel stay, University Arms Hotel is the best in the city. The rooms, particularly the signature suites, named after famous Cambridge alumni, are wonderful; and the playful, sexy, buzzy bar-restaurant combo on the ground floor, Parker’s Tavern, is utterly ravishing.

6. Manchester

The foodie city

The city has upped its foodie game over the past few years. Recent openings include Dishoom, the four-storey Ivy Spinningfields, with a rare rooftop bar and separate Asian restaurant, and Mana, from ex- Noma chef Simon Martin, with reindeer moss and bark on the menu. And one of the region's most switched-on vegan restaurants, Allotment, recently moved here from nearby Stockport – a town that has just unveiled The Produce Hall in its Victorian market (and remains a foodie destination for the wonderful, tasting-menu-only When The Light Gets In).

Where to stay: The city's recent biggest openings include the Dakota Manchester hotel , dressed in designer black near Piccadilly, with a seriously grown-up bar and restaurant and terrace views of the canal, and Ducie Street Warehouse, on the edge of the Northern Quarter. A former goods warehouse that's also home to Native Manchester hotel , it’s an ambitious space with 166 apartments, including 8 penthouses with private terraces. For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Manchester . By Rick Jordan

7. Newcastle

The riverside revival city

The city’s Quayside, once a tumultuous clank of coal and steamships, has been on the rise since the Millennium as a reimagined riverside for urban escapism. But if you want to catch the next wave of the city’s resurgence, head to Ouseburn, once one of Newcastle ’s roughest, toughest industrial areas, home to a whaling dock and a bleach factory. While relics of the past remain, it’s now one of the city’s most rapidly evolving neighbourhoods, clustered around the well-established Cluny music venue and Seven Stories, the national centre for children’s books. The Ship serves some of the best vegetarian food on Tyneside, the Kiln does great breakfasts, while the subterranean Brinkburn Street Bar & Kitchen has more than a dozen cask beers plus small dishes such as vindaloo Scotch egg and Hasselback potatoes. And for smart dining with a spin, try Anna Hedworth’s superb Cook House.

In the city centre, Spanish food specialist Kaltur now has a restaurant in Dean Street to complement its tiny tapas place in High Bridge. Huddled on the other side of the Tyne in Gateshead is another container community: the excellent By The River Brew Co, with open-fire cooking and a bike café. By Harry Pearson

Where to stay: Check in to Jesmond Dene House , a neighbourhood boutique hotel set within a historic mansion.

8. Birmingham

The design city

Britain’s second city is enjoying a remarkable renaissance, and it's not just down to the continuing success of Peaky Blinders . An industrial blackspot has become a dynamic cultural and commercial hub as its old factories have been transformed into shopping centres and galleries – such as the Odox, an artist-run space in former brass workshop. The Roundhouse, red-brick stables and stores from the 19th century, is being transformed into a canalside hub by the National Trust – you can see it with a gin and tonic from The Distillery next door, with its open kitchen and pizza oven.

But the best thing about Birmingham is its lively street life, which you can sample all year round. Take a walk along the rejuvenated canal, and check out the quirky shops and cafés in the Jewellery Quarter and the Custard Factory in Digbeth – one of the hottest neighbourhoods in town, with highlights including Baked in Brick for pizzas, and The Clean Kilo supermarket for zero-waste everything.

The best restaurants in Birmingham include Adam Stokes' seafood restaurant, The Oyster Club, which opened in April 2021 close to the chef's Michelin-starred place, Adam's, and the city's first taste of Hawaii , Kuula Poké, which opened on a corner of the beautiful Great Western Arcade. By William Cook

Where to stay: Following a 20-year hiatus to undergo a £50 million facelift, The Grand Hotel Birmingham is back to take the crown as best place to stay in the city.

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The new foodie city

The city has dined out for centuries on its association with Jane Austen and its Georgian crescents, along with the Roman Baths that were deep-cleansed and given a Bill Bryson audio commentary a few years ago. But just as Bristol’s foodie scene has taken root and scattered seeds around the city in the past few years, near neighbour Bath is showing an appetite for more than Mrs Bennet-themed scones and tea.

Tapas and small plates, street food, supper clubs, vegan menus and cooking classes are gathering momentum with the best restaurants in Bath , from the hole-in-the-wall Chai Walla to the Vietnamese-flavoured Noya’s Kitchen, whose supper club gets booked six months in advance. A local pioneer was the Corkage wine bar, which now has a sibling; but other highlights include Beneath, a bar underneath the Botanist restaurant, and the Beckford bottle shop. Elsewhere, there’s Francis Gallery, created by Cereal co-founder Rosa Parks and with interiors inspired by Korean ceramics, and the boutique Tivoli cinema, with armchairs and sofas to watch movies from.

Where to stay: The Gainsborough Bath Hotel , which opened in 2015, is still the most dramatic place to stay, but other projects are afoot. Hotel Indigo recently opened, taking over a honey-stoned Georgian terrace house on South Parade. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Bath . By Rick Jordan

10. Liverpool

The music city

Liverpool ’s Docks continue to thrive as a heartland for the arts. Following Liverpool's year as UNESCO City of Music, the nearby Baltic Triangle hosted Liverpool Sound City in October 2021 after a successful 6 Music weekend. Digital and tech businesses thrive here too, next to street-food mecca Camp and Furnace and quirky bars such as Hobo Kiosk. And in 2023, the city will host the Eurovision Song Contest.

Go a mile-and-a-half out of town, too, to Granby Street in Toxteth, a road transformed by the community in collaboration with Turner Prize-winning architecture firm Assemble. The Granby Workshop sells groundbreaking architectural ceramics, while the Granby Winter Garden opened this spring. A creative space transformed from two derelict terraces, its urban indoor garden grows toward its glass roof, and hosts artists-in-residence. See our guide to the best things to do in Liverpool for more. By Jude Rogers

Where to stay: For a smart stay with a view, ALoft Liverpool sits within the Grade II-listed Royal Insurance Building, perfectly placed near Moorfields Railway Station.

11. Brighton

The seaside-escape city

Ever since the Prince Regent pulled on his woolly bathing costume here in the 18th century, Brighton has had a certain cachet. There are now as many individually minded hotels and bars to be seen in within the BN1 postcode as there are fortune-tellers and fish-and-chip shops, and several recent new additions make the trip even more worthwhile.

For Brighton restaurants , the Hanningtons Estate development is in The Lanes, and combines smart shopping with foodie opportunities. The Flint House, a new restaurant from local kitchen hero Ben McKellar of The Gingerman Group, is particularly anticipated. And just a pebble’s throw away, the Brighton Dome café on New Road will provide latté-sippers with an on-street space in which to enjoy the buzz of North Laine.

Where to stay: For those planning to stay the night, 12-room ‘self-service’ hotel One Broad Street is open in Kemptown, and blends clean-eating urban style – exposed brickwork and faux greenery – with an innovative, digital-only approach that allows guests to be masters of their own mini-break destiny. See our pick of the best hotels in Brighton for more. By Rufus Purdy

The Scottish renaissance city

Dundee ’s ascendance as one of the UK’s must-visit cultural destinations continues unabated after the opening of the dramatic waterside V&A, Scotland ’s first design museum.

As for food, there's exciting Scottish cuisine by Masterchef winner Jamie Scott at waterfront restaurant The Newport, where you can see beautiful sunsets over the River Tay from its windows (and stay the night in one of its four bedrooms). Explore the town on one of the 300 new e-bikes which were installed across the city from July 2021 – keep an eye out for the West Ward Works, a print factory that made DC Thomson’s Beano and Dandy annuals, that will host live performances, festivals and exhibitions, and become a base for designers, artists and other creative workers and companies.

Where to stay: Try the recently-opened Staybridge Suites , in a cleverly-converted former jute mill. By Giovanna Dunmall

13. Swansea

The Welsh arts city

Swansea has stealthily become the new hothouse for culture in Wales . The city’s high street is at the heart of it, where derelict units have become thriving artist and theatre spaces. A new permanent home for Elysium, an artist-led social enterprise comprising more than 83 studio spaces, opened in summer 2020, while local dynamo Jane Simpson, a Swansea-born Young British Artist, curates probing exhibitions and talks from the GS Artists gallery.

The Volcano Theatre in a former supermarket also runs shows all summer – you’ll recognise it from the huge mural of a weeping Elizabeth Taylor outside. Experimental music and spoken-word gigs run by the brilliant NAWR collective are also constantly curious, thrilling nights. The Swansea Museum runs immersive, challenging exhibitions, such as the one on the history of the town’s asylum that ran in summer 2020, and the recent £6-million restoration of the town’s stunning Glynn Vivian Art Gallery is spearheading one-off residencies. By Jude Rogers

Where to stay: This Plum Guide penthouse makes the most of its coastal views via floor-to-ceiling windows, while Swansea Beach is a 10 minute stroll away.

19 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jun 8, 2023

Consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom (UK) has long been one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. For most travelers, like me, the country's appeal has as much to do with its diverse scenery as it does its rich cultural heritage. In fact, the best places to visit in the UK include everything from beautifully preserved country estates and picturesque castles to its many big city art galleries and museums.

You'll find one of the greatest pleasures of a UK vacation, however, is just how easy it is for you to explore this fascinating, diverse, and relatively small country. The UK could easily fit into the state of Texas with room to spare, so you can base yourself in a couple of cities and simply take a train, bus, or ferry to explore other areas.

One of my favorite day trips from London , for example, is to take the 90-minute train ride to beautiful Salisbury . Once there, you're only a short bus ride or tour away from one of the country's most recognizable attractions, Stonehenge. Want to hop between the Scottish cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow ? A one-hour train ride will deposit you in the heart of either city.

Sure, the UK can seem like a very busy travel destination. But plan your sightseeing adventures carefully with my list of the best places to visit in the UK and you'll have no problem making the most of your time.

1. London: The UK's All-in-One Destination

2. edinburgh: scotland's capital, 3. roman-era bath, 4. ancient stonehenge and medieval salisbury, 5. royal windsor, 6. idyllic england: the cotswolds, 7. the magical lake district, 8. medieval york and its minster, 9. the university towns of cambridge & oxford, 10. england's pilgrimage city: canterbury, 11. loch ness and inverness, 12. northern ireland's giant's causeway, 13. liverpool: home of the beatles, 14. manchester: england's football mad city, 15. cardiff: the capital of wales, 16. the channel islands, 17. glasgow & loch lomond, 18. snowdonia: wales' biggest mountains, 19. belfast.

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament on the banks of the River Thames

While it's possible to plan a trip to the UK without actually visiting London, it's certainly not a recommendation I'd make. I typically begin my UK visits by spending a few days in the nation's sprawling capital while getting over my jet lag before venturing out to my planned final destination (or destinations).

There are plenty of attractions to keep you busy. Want to learn more about the UK's rich history? You're literally spoiled for choice here as London boasts more than 200 world-class museums and art galleries to explore.

In the City of London, the heart of the old Roman city, you'll find evidence of pretty much every period in history ever since. Some of the top attractions in London are located here, including the Tower of London .

Located beside the spectacular Tower Bridge on the banks of the River Thames , this former palace and prison includes highlights such as the iconic 1,000-year-old White Tower, with its fascinating displays of armor and weaponry, and the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels. I always make a return visit at sunrise or sunset to grab an iconic photo of the Tower of London framed by Tower Bridge.

If you're a fan of Britain's Royal Family, you'll want to head to Buckingham Palace , London's Royal home since Queen Victoria's reign. Here, you can enjoy the colorful pomp of the Changing of the Guard or even take a tour of the Palace's State Rooms. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book in advance as they're only open for a few weeks each year.

From here you can wander along the Thames to the city's Whitehall Road area. Here you'll find Big Ben and the Parliament Buildings , as well as Westminster Abbey, the scene of many a royal wedding.

Another area to visit in London is South Kensington, home to the city's best museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum , as well as the famous Harrods department store. Also check out Trafalgar Square , home to the iconic Nelson's Column and the National Portrait Gallery.

And be sure to make the most of London's excellent transport system. Whether you go by bus or by underground, the system's now so good that you can simply use a debit or credit card to tap in and out as you go. It really is very easy, and once you've mastered that famous map of the city's "Tube" network you'll be traveling like a Londoner.

One of the UK's most attractive cities, the capital city of Edinburgh is also one of the UK's most visited destinations. Popular for its many well-preserved historic buildings, Edinburgh is perhaps best known as the home of the majestic Edinburgh Castle .

Perched high above the old city on a rocky promontory, this 13th-century royal fortress includes highlights such as the famous One O'Clock Salute, held daily at Half Moon Battery, as well as the Scottish Crown Jewels in the Royal Palace . Also worth seeing are the Scottish National War Memorial and the famous Stone of Destiny , the Stone of Scone, which only returned to Scotland after being held for 700 years in London.

From the castle, I always find it easy to explore the other most important historic sites in the city. Follow your nose downhill from the castle to the Old Town via the famous Royal Mile , a delightful medieval cobbled street that's immensely fun to walk. Sure, there are plenty of the usual tacky tourist and souvenir shops, but skip these and look out for the area's fine old architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants, as well as trendy art galleries and studios.

Edinburgh Old Town is also where you'll find the splendid old Palace of Holyroodhouse . From here, I usually make my way to Princes Street and New Town before looping back around to the castle. This broad, more modern avenue was planned in the late 18th century and is extremely popular for its shopping and dining opportunities. It's also where you'll find attractions such as the Royal Botanical Garden and the National Gallery of Scotland.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Edinburgh

Although one of the UK's smaller cities, Bath more than makes up for its diminutive size with a multitude of things to see and do . Named after its famous Roman Baths, this beautiful city has been luring visitors like you and me to its healing waters for more than 2,000 years.

Gushing from three hot springs, the water-known to consist of 43 different minerals, hence its curative properties-travels upwards some 3,048 meters at a rate of 275,000 gallons per day, before spilling out at a consistent 46.5 degrees Celsius. It's a truly awesome sight, and also a little eerie to think that you're standing just feet away from the very hot springs that Romans and early Britons enjoyed some 2,000 years before you got here.

While it's not possible to bathe in the original Roman Baths (try it and you'll be arrested!), a number of nearby spas, most notably the modern Thermae Bath Spa , offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the city's famous waters. This must-do experience features a stunning rooftop pool using the same waters as the Roman Baths, and all with incredible views of city landmarks such as Bath Abbey .

In addition to its ancient history, Bath is also famous for its lovely Georgian architecture. The best examples can be seen along the magnificent, curved Royal Crescent, with its palatial townhomes. One of them, No.1 Royal Crescent , is now a museum that offers a fascinating peek into life during Georgian times.

While Bath is served by the same London rail service as the neighboring port city of Bristol , it's one of those increasingly forward-thinking cities that makes it easy for car drivers, too. My most recent visit in the summer of 2022 was via car, and I avoided traffic and hassle by parking at the extremely affordable Landsdowne Park and Ride facility on the outskirts of the city. Not only is it inexpensive with plenty of availability, but regular bus services will also whisk you away to the heart of the city in just 10 minutes.

Read More: From London to Bath: Best Ways to Get There

One of the planet's oldest World Heritage Sites , Stonehenge has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 4,500 years. It was believed to have been erected as a place of worship, but these days, the crowds consist of tourists drawn by the sheer scale of this magnificent monument to mankind's ingenuity.

It's a sprawling site, covering an area of more than 20 square kilometers and boasting a state-of-the-art visitor center. Here, you can catch a fascinating glimpse not only into the construction of Stonehenge but also its history since then.

But it does get busy, so be sure to plan well ahead and purchase a timed ticket for the day of your visit. Better still, splurge a little on one of the attraction's new VIP admission packages . This unforgettable experience guarantees your spot on a fun "Stone Circle Experience" that includes free time to wander the site on your own. The verdict? It's a must-do.

Be sure to also spend time exploring the nearby medieval city of Salisbury , located just 16 kilometers south of Stonehenge. You'll be rewarded with a chance to visit one of the country's most famous cathedrals, dating back to 1220 and home to an original Magna Carta .

Afterward, spend time wandering the old city center with its many fine churches and historic medieval architecture. Not only are there a number of first-rate places to stay here (I'm partial to the Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel for its central location and 4-star quality and cleanliness), but great little intimate eateries like the Cosy Club on Crane Street. The food here is home-cooked, locally sourced, tasty... and served in an extremely patriotic British setting.

Read More: From London to Stonehenge: Best Ways to Get There

The historic town of Windsor, conveniently located a short train ride west of Central London, offers plenty of fun attractions for tourists . In addition to its lovely Thames-side setting and the many medieval half-timbered buildings along its quaint old cobblestone laneways, it's also home to spectacular Windsor Castle , the most famous of the UK's royal castles.

This grand old castle has served as the summer residence of British royalty for more than a millennium. It was started by William the Conqueror in 1078 and is the world's largest inhabited castle. Highlights include the splendid State Apartments containing the Queen's Gallery and dining hall, each with magnificently painted ceilings and woodcarvings, and St. George's Chapel, famous as the home of the Knights and Ladies of the ancient Order of the Garter.

When you've had your fill of these historic buildings, be sure to also spend time exploring the castle's large and beautiful grounds, almost 10 kilometers long. You'll enjoy some truly memorable panoramic views over Windsor and its castle, and a number of picnic areas, some with barbecue grills, are available if you want to stop awhile.

Traveling with kids? Another area attraction worth visiting is Legoland Windsor . This fun family resort, set on 150 acres of parkland and just a short bus ride from Windsor town center, even boats a modern Lego-themed hotel if you're looking to make a weekend of it.

Also worth seeing is Royal Ascot , the UK's most famous horse-racing venue. While you might want to try to time your trip to coincide with the Royal Meeting held each June, you'll find yourself fighting often huge crowds, all dressed to the nines, here for what is after all one of the most important events on the country's social calendar.

Read More: From London to Windsor: Best Ways to Get There

Village of Castle Combe in the Cotswolds

Covering almost 1,287 square kilometers of charming countryside, the beautiful Cotswolds is undoubtedly one of the most photographed corners of England. Its unrivaled pastoral scenery has earned it a reputation as one of the most beautiful places in the UK, ranking highly on many a traveler's bucket list.

Easy to get to from London and close to the popular tourist attractions of Bath and Bristol , the Cotswolds includes some of the best parts of the counties of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire.

Why visit? Well, if you're anything like me, you're here to experience a true taste of rural English life and explore its many quaint villages . You'll want to include the idyllic village of Bourton-on-the-Water on your Cotswolds itinerary. Nicknamed the "Venice of the Cotswolds," this popular vacation spot boasts a charming river setting and countless well-preserved cottages, some dating back to the 15th century, and all just begging to be photographed.

One of the most popular ways to do this is via the area's extensive trail network, including the excellent 164-kilometer-long Cotswold Way. Other fun things to do include horseback riding and biking, or simply soaking up the history of popular market towns such as Castle Combe or Tetbury.

Located in the northeast of England not far from the border with Scotland , the spectacular Lake District in Cumbria covers an area of 1,448 square kilometers. Not only is it considered one of the most magical places to visit in the UK for its beautiful scenery, its reputation as a place of romance and great culture will forever be associated with its most famous former resident, Beatrix Potter.

It was Potter who in fact led the way with the conservation efforts that have preserved so much of the Lake District when she bequeathed her estate to the National Trust. Her one-time home near Sawrey, Hill Top , can and should be visited for its exhibits and artifacts.

Her legacy also set the stage for the establishment of Lake District National Park . Encompassing 12 of the country's largest lakes including Windermere and Ullswater, the two biggest and best known, this beautiful region is another famous place in the UK that's great to explore on foot. All told the park boasts more than 3,218 kilometers of hiking and walking trails, so be sure to pack your hiking boots.

Other things to do in the Lake District include visiting Scafell Pike , at 978 meters the highest mountain in England. And, of course, there is no end of picturesque towns and villages to explore, including Grasmere .

Read More: From London to the Lake District: Best Ways to Get There

One of northern England's most popular tourist destinations, the medieval city of York, long the ecclesiastical capital of the Church of England, boasts one of the country's most magnificent cathedrals. The country's largest medieval church, York Minster can trace its roots back to the spread of Christianity in the 3rd century, although the splendid present Gothic structure was built almost 1,000 years later.

One of the best ways to get to see this historic landmark is via an official guided tour . I recommend you book in advance, and spend a little time reviewing the available choices to find one best suited to your interests. I opted for the fascinating "Tower Trip" option, a little more expensive but well worth the cost for the magnificent city views.

Other highlights of a visit to York Minster include seeing its spectacular 14th-century stained glass windows, plus the richly decorated interiors of the choir and north transept. You'll also want to visit the crypt, which contains parts of the original 11th-century church the cathedral now stands on.

Another York landmark worth exploring is the historic City Walls . I make a point of strolling this nearly five-kilometer-long structure each and every time I visit the city. Not only is it good exercise, but it's also a fun way to circle around the old medieval city center without the crowds.

Along the way, you'll enjoy excellent views over The Shambles , a narrow 14th-century roadway that's famous for its fine old timber-framed buildings, many of which hang over the street below. It's also an area known for its many restaurants and tearooms, as well as its many boutique shops and galleries.

York also boasts a number of major museums, the most popular being the National Railway Museum . Highlights of this museum's vast collection include many fine old steam engines dating as far back as 1820, plus a unique collection of Royal Trains. The museum also offers an excellent afternoon tea experience in the historic Countess of York railway carriage, bookable in advance.

Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England
From London to York: Best Ways to Get There

The UK has long been a center of learning, with two of its most famous university towns also ranking highly as tourist destinations. An easy commute north of London and just 128 kilometers apart, Cambridge and Oxford have for centuries been rivals for the title of the country's top academic establishment, a rivalry celebrated during the famous rowing event, The Boat Race , which takes place each spring on the River Thames .

Despite this generally good-spirited rivalry, each location offers plenty of attractions to make them worthwhile additions to your UK travel itinerary. Highlights of a visit to Cambridge include the chance to wander the UK's largest collection of preserved historic buildings, many of them located within an easy walk of Cambridge University ' s 31 colleges, the oldest of which was founded in 1284.

In addition to touring the stunning college grounds (only a handful of the university's buildings offer tours), you should also take a punt along the River Cam. This must-do activity is something of a Cambridge ritual, and chances are you'll even be "punted" along by a university student willing to share a little of their college experiences.

As with most popular tourist destinations, however, a little advance planning will ensure you find a reputable company for your punting tour. Licensed operators to consider include Cambridge Punt Company , which also offers a private romantic evening tour; and Scholars Punting , which features a fun picnic hamper package worth considering. In both cases, you can keep the cost down by joining a shared tour.

Oxford University's 38 colleges are equally fun to explore. These historic old places of learning are each set around a quadrangle and several inner courtyards along with chapels, dining halls, libraries, and student residences, some of which offer unique tourist accommodation packages, too. Like most UK tourist sites, they do get extremely busy in summer so be sure to book your visit in advance if you can to avoid disappointment.

Other Oxford highlights include the Carfax Tower, with its fine views over the city center, and the many fine old buildings of the town's High Street .

Pay a visit to historic Canterbury in Kent, and you'll soon discover why this beautiful city continues to be such a draw for visitors to the UK.

An easy hour's train ride from central London, Canterbury has been a draw for visitors for centuries. The first visitors were religious pilgrims who have in fact been visiting for more than 1,500 years, ever since St. Augustine first started converting pagan Anglo-Saxons to Christianity here in AD 597.

The city's most famous attraction is Canterbury Cathedral , the home church of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning cathedral offers plenty to see, from the intricately carved masonry of its exterior to its magnificent interior, a highlight of which is the beautiful choir with its statues of six English kings. Also of note are the exquisite Miracle Windows, dating from the 12th century and depicting scenes from the life of murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket .

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the pedestrianized area of Old City Canterbury with its many preserved, historic timber-framed buildings, particularly along Mercery Lane. Be sure to include the excellent Canterbury Roman Museum on your itinerary. It was built around the remains of an original Roman townhouse and its unique mosaic.

Read More: From London to Canterbury: Best Ways to Get There

The ruins of Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness

Despite the fact that the legends of mythical monsters have largely been debunked (just don't tell the locals), spectacular Loch Ness remains an extremely popular tourist attraction for travelers heading to Scotland. While it's unlikely you'll encounter any monsters, you will, however, be rewarded with seeing some of the UK's most beautiful scenery.

Highlights of Loch Ness include the ruins of Urquhart Castle . Set overlooking the loch, it's one of Scotland's largest fortifications, with the current structure dating from the 14th century. For those wanting to learn more about the area's many legends, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition recounts its history, along with that of its monster, including details of ongoing searches for the elusive creature.

A little farther north is Inverness. This lovely city boasts numerous excellent attractions, including Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and the late 19th-century St. Andrew's Cathedral.

History buffs should also check out the Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre . It was in Culloden in 1746 that the English and Scots fought their last battle and where the fate of Scotland as a British dominion was determined. Also of interest are the gravestones of warriors from the Scottish clans, as well as the six-meter-high Memorial Cairn erected in 1881 to commemorate the battle.

From Glasgow to Loch Ness: Best Way to Get There
From Edinburgh to Loch Ness: Best Ways to Get There

It's sometimes a little too easy to forget that the UK includes a tiny little piece of Ireland . Northern Ireland, consisting of the northeast corner of the "Emerald Isle," can easily be included on a trip to either country and is well worth taking the time to explore.

My favorite among the many Northern Ireland attractions worth visiting is the magnificent Giant's Causeway, a stunningly beautiful natural feature that looks anything but natural. Just a short drive from the capital of Belfast , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of unusual columns of layered basalt that jut upwards out of the sea and shoreline like some giant's staircase, hence their name.

All told, there are some 4,000 of these polygonal-shaped steps to see and clamber over. Formed over 60 million years ago during a period of intense volcanic activity, it's a truly impressive sight, and easy to see how local legends of giants could so easily have sprung up as a result.

A modern visitor center has been opened here and provides fascinating details about the reality and the myths behind this bucket-list attraction. Guided tours can be arranged, and be sure to make use of the audio guides that are provided with admission. Tickets can be booked online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Read More: From Dublin to Giant's Causeway: Best Ways to Get There

Liverpool , under three hours away from London by rail, offers plenty of cultural excitement for the curious traveler. It's also well-known for its role in giving rise to the English music legacy, not least because of its association with the Beatles .

Music fans are drawn here first and foremost for "Fab Four"-related attractions, such as The Beatles Story located in the renovated Albert Docks area. Also worth seeing are the famous Cavern Club, where the band made its debut in 1961, as well as the former homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Numerous walking tours and bus tours of Beatles sites are also readily available.

Other great reasons to visit Liverpool include its many historic buildings, lovely gardens, and parks, as well as great museums such as the Merseyside Maritime Museum , the Museum of Liverpool , and world-class art galleries like the Walker Art Gallery and the Tate Gallery . These are all located in the city's revitalized Royal Albert Dock area, an historic area enjoyed exploring on foot.

Thanks to its international airport, Manchester is often the first stop for many visitors from North America planning to explore northern England, Scotland, or Wales. It's especially popular for fans of the sport of football (that's soccer to those from the US, including Ted Lasso!).

Manchester is, in fact, home to two top football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. Both are well represented in the must-visit National Football Museum , as are other popular teams from around the UK. Along with displays of memorabilia, trophies, and clothing, fun short movies explain the history of the sport and capture many of its defining moments.

Be sure to also visit at least one Manchester club's stadium, too. The best known is Manchester United's Old Trafford grounds, though Manchester City's Etihad Stadium is also worth seeing. Both offer fascinating tours and behind-the-scenes access. Better still, try to visit when there's a game on!

Other notable places to visit in Manchester include Castlefield , popular for its well-preserved Victorian houses, canals, and Roman ruins. It's also popular to explore on foot for its many old warehouses now serving as trendy shops, hotels, and restaurants.

If you've got time left in your Manchester itinerary, be sure to include Manchester Cathedral and the historic Town Hall. There's also a rich cultural scene that includes museums (Museum of Science and Industry), galleries (Manchester Art Gallery), and entertainment (Chinatown).

Despite being much smaller than both Scotland and England, Wales is home to some of the UK's top attractions. Interesting things to do here range from exploring the breathtaking scenery and enjoying outdoor adventures in its national parks to visiting its historic castles.

One of the best places to sample a little of everything that Wales has to offer is the country's capital, Cardiff , with most travelers beginning their visit at Cardiff Castle . Located in the middle of the city and built on the ruins of an ancient Roman fort, parts of the current structure date as far back as 1090, with much of it restored in the 1800s. Highlights include the State Apartments, the Clock Tower, the Chapel, and a spectacular Banqueting Hall with its fine murals.

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the city's many old Victorian shopping arcades, the best of which can be found around The Hayes. You'll find everything from second-hand record stores to boutique clothing shops and custom jewelers to browse.

Also worth checking out is Cardiff Bay. One of the UK's largest redevelopment projects, this vast area is now home to numerous fine restaurants, theaters, galleries, and shopping opportunities, many of them housed in former warehouses on lovely Mermaid Quay.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

Gorey Castle in Saint Martin, Jersey, Channel Islands

Although just 14 miles away from mainland France , the Channel Islands have been a British territory since 1066. One of the most picture-perfect destinations in the country, these attractive small islands not only boast a milder climate but offer great places to visit that don't get the large crowds like other parts of the country.

The Channel Islands comprise Jersey (the largest island), Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and Herm (the smallest), along with numerous even tinier islands. The intrepid traveler will also be rewarded with everything from quaint seaside towns and villages to explore, historic castles and ruins (sometimes one and the same), as well as outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting.

As for getting here, the Channel Islands are well served by ferries from mainland England, as well as short flights from most major British airports.

Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

Aerial view of Balmaha village on Loch Lomond

The Scottish city of Glasgow is a great place to visit for those who enjoy a mix of cultural attractions and the great outdoors. Once you've had your fix of historic sites such as Glasgow Cathedral and the museums of the University of Glasgow, among others, head out to explore nearby Loch Lomond .

Loch Lomond was dubbed "The Queen of Scottish Lakes" by famed writer Walter Scott, and it's here you'll see Ben Lomond and the beautiful Trossachs countryside. Trossachs National Park now includes Loch Lomond itself and covers some 720 square miles of prime hiking and biking country.

It's also popular for its fishing and boating, including sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. For true outdoor enthusiasts, Loch Lomond is the perfect spot for a "wild camping" adventure. Not only is it safe, you're never too far away from people if you need them. And, of course, you'll agree that the scenery here is even more beautiful when you have it all to yourself.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Glasgow

Not only does the Snowdonia region of Wales boast some of the country's most remarkable scenery — and that's saying something, as it really is a beautiful country — it's also home to the UK's second largest national park: Snowdonia National Park. Spread across nearly 830 square miles, the park is as big a draw for adventurers as it is for those seeking a pleasant and not-too-exhausting day trip.

If you're a hiker you can choose from a variety of trails that wind their way up (and down) Mount Snowdon itself, spending a full day tackling as difficult a route to the top as you desire. And those like me who want to see the spectacular views from the top without all the hard work can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway .

Considered one of the world's top scenic railways, the journey starts in Llanberis before tackling steep inclines up to the "Eryri" visitor center at the top of Snowdon.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Snowdonia

Once omitted from the itineraries of most travelers to the UK, Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, has in recent years become something of a must-see destination. Not only are there numerous historic attractions and cultural experiences to enjoy, but the city's people have the same welcoming attitude that the European nation of Ireland to the south is known for.

One of the city's top claims to fame was its role in the building of the ill-fated ocean liner, RMS Titanic . This connection is celebrated and memorialized in the city's Titanic Quarter , home to the impressive Titanic Belfast attraction. Here, you can explore interactive exhibits that deal not only with the vessel, but the thousands of people involved in its construction and, ultimately, its sinking.

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20 Best Cities to Visit in the UK

12 Jul, 2023 | Blog Articles , Get the Edge

4. Cambridge

Oxford’s counterpart, the city of Cambridge has a truly unique beauty and incredible history. The picturesque colleges of Cambridge University are scattered throughout the city – and many are open to visitors!

Small but perfectly formed, it’s easy to take in the best sights Cambridge has to offer, like King’s College Chapel , the Mathematical Bridge and the Cambridge Backs , in a day. The Fitzwilliam Museum houses a stunning collection, with plenty of free exhibitions and activities. However, the idyllic setting of the city is best appreciated by punting through it on the river.

Perhaps you can finish off by trying the Cambridge speciality of a Chelsea Bun from Fitzbillies!

A favourite for visitors to the UK since Roman times, Bath is the perfect day trip. With its elegant Georgian architecture, famous Roman Baths and showstopping Bath Abbey , the city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The stately buildings and quaint shopping streets give Bath an individuality that has been captured in novels, poetry and film for centuries. Famous spots like the Royal Crescent, Abbey Green and Beauford Square have appeared in all sorts of media, from Jane Austen to Bridgerton. The Jane Austen Centre pays homage to the literary heritage of the city, best enjoyed after a trip to Sally Lunn’s tea shop for a Bath Bun.

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Nestled in a bend of the Great Ouse River, York is a medieval gem. The city and its magnificent York Minster cathedral have hosted some of the most important moments in British history.

The rich heritage stretches from the Viking invasions to the present day, and there are plenty of ways to explore like walking along the well-preserved city walls, following in the footsteps of Roman guards and Civil War infantrymen. The Jorvik Viking Centre offers a taste of life in Viking York, while at the York Castle Museum you can walk through an exact replica of the Victorian streets.

The National Railway Museum pays homage to British railway engineering, while the Barley Hall offers a glimpse of Tudor life. York is a foodie city, and there are lots of shops and outdoor markets to tickle your tastebuds, from the famous Yorkshire Pudding wrap to a traditional afternoon tea at Betty’s.

7. Manchester

Manchester is a cultural hub in the UK. Flourishing as a centre for global trade and industry during the Industrial Revolution, Manchester has always been at the forefront of technology, media and pop culture. You can explore this amazing heritage at the Manchester Museum or the Science and Industry Museum .

The city is a home for musical and theatrical performance in the UK, from Manchester Arena to the Royal Exchange Theatre . It’s the birthplace of famous British bands like Oasis, the Smiths and Joy Division. Manchester’s vibrant, modern character is captured in the colourful streets of the Northern Quarter, where you can find the city’s liveliest restaurants, shops and entertainment venues.

8. Liverpool

Built on maritime heritage and world trade influence, Liverpool is another UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history. The docklands that initially put Liverpool on the map have been refurbished into the Royal Albert Dock and waterfront, home to museums, galleries, restaurants and shops.

You can find plenty of amazing galleries elsewhere, including the Tate Liverpool , Sudley House and Walker Art Gallery . Like Manchester, Liverpool is another musical gem in the North-West, most famously known as the birthplace of the Beatles. The Beatles Story Museum documents the swinging sixties and this vibrant city that produced one of the most successful bands of all time.

The Beatles statue in Liverpool, a famous UK city.

9. Birmingham

Birmingham is a dynamic and multicultural city, home to a diverse and vibrant community which prides itself on its cultural offerings, particularly its culinary scene.

A major city of the Industrial Revolution, Birmingham’s foundries and factories now house museums, galleries, restaurants, shops like the Bullring shopping centre , and entertainment venues like Symphony Hall . The historic jewellery quarter is home to over a hundred retailers, diamond dealers and workshops – perfect for some window-shopping!

Birmingham doesn’t just produce precious metal, it’s also the reputed home of heavy metal music, with bands like Black Sabbath, Judas Priest and members of Led Zeppelin hailing from the city.

10. Glasgow

On the banks of the River Clyde in Scotland, Glasgow is known as the “World’s Friendliest City”. The historic second city of the British Empire due to its shipbuilding heritage, it’s also home to the world’s oldest football team.

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum , the Riverside Museum , and the Glasgow Science Centre pay homage to this city’s unique place in world history. Glasgow’s incredible architecture features the amazing buildings of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a leader in the Arts and Crafts movement, as well as medieval gems like Glasgow Cathedral , Provan Hall and Tolbooth Steeple.

The city also has a reputation for excellent shopping and dining, so there’s something for everyone!

11. Winchester

Winchester is a city of myth and legend. Home to the earliest kings of England, it’s also believed to have been home to King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.

Winchester Cathedral , Winchester College and the bustling high street, are all exceptional examples of early medieval architecture.

The city hosts local art, music and theatre events, and the local shops and cafés represent local independent skill, passion and produce. Once you’ve finished with the winding streets, you’re just a stone’s throw away from the stunning landscape of the South Downs for a breath of fresh air.

12. Bristol

With its colourful houses and stunning docks, Bristol is known as a hub for creative industries. With a strong industrial and shipping heritage, factories, shipyards and warehouses have been transformed into venues for the city’s buzzing music scene, galleries, and unique shops, restaurants and cafes.

There are lots of unique attractions, like the SS Great Britain , where you can get a taste of the high life exploring a real Victorian cruise ship. Bristol is home to a vibrant street art culture, and its walls are canvases for the likes of Banksy!

13. Cardiff

The capital city of Wales, Cardiff is of immense historical and cultural importance. Widely regarded as the city with the most castles in the world, there’s plenty to see! The most famous of these is Cardiff Castle , which has stood at the heart of the city for nearly 2,000 years.

Formerly a thriving dockland, Cardiff Bay once exported Welsh coal around the world. It’s now a vibrant destination for entertainment and relaxation, with stunning views across the shore. Cardiff is also famous for its sporting history, and Cardiff Arms Park has hosted many major events in rugby, football, boxing and motorsports.

Cardiff, the capital city of Wales in the UK.

14. Belfast

The capital of Northern Ireland, and once a prominent battleground during the Troubles, Belfast has been transformed into a vibrant and welcoming city. Some buildings still show the scars of Belfast’s violent past, and are a testimony to the remarkable resilience of the city and its people.

The city is famously the birthplace of the Titanic, a legacy you can explore in the dockland’s Titanic Quarter, which includes the Titanic Belfast museum. For art, culture and food, visit the Cathedral Quarter, a maze of cobblestones and warehouses that now host theatre, comedy and art shows, as well as food festivals and summer concerts.

15. Newcastle

With its bustling city centre and vibrant nightlife, Newcastle has a reputation as the party capital of the UK – but if you’re not a night owl, Newcastle still has plenty to offer!

Another important industrial city, there’s lots of attractions like the iconic Tyne Bridge or the medieval castle from which the city takes its name.

The city’s lively character is reflected in its art. It’s home to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art , with lots of internationally acclaimed modern installations.

16. Brighton

Set on the beautiful south coast, Brighton is a bohemian seaside city. It has an established reputation as an LGBTQ+ hub, hosting diverse events celebrating inclusivity all year round, culminating in the famous Brighton Pride Festival .

The city is full of iconic landmarks, like Brighton Pier and the Brighton Pavilion , or you can visit North Laine for shops full of vintage treasures, quirky cafes and restaurants.

17. Inverness

Inverness is the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands. In its stunning natural setting in the wild, Inverness has inspired artists and writers for hundreds of years.

There are plenty of beautiful walks to take in the scenery of the nearby Cairngorms National Park . Perhaps hike across Culloden Battlefield or go monster-hunting at the mysterious Loch Ness .

For literature-lovers, visit Inverness Castle , where Macbeth murders King Duncan in Shakespeare’s darkest tragedy, Macbeth.

Inverness in Scotland, one of the UK's best cities.

18. Canterbury

Canterbury is one of the oldest and most important cities in the UK, full of medieval charm, quaint streets and a vibrant art scene. As the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the city has been of religious and royal importance since its earliest history.

Attractions like St Augustine’s Abbey and the Canterbury Tales visitor attraction bring this long heritage to life, and Canterbury Cathedral remains an important site of power for the Church of England and political structures.

Leeds is a thriving city, with a unique blend of history, culture and modernity. The Leeds City Museum , the Royal Armouries Museum and the Leeds Grand Theatre, are a testimony to the storied past of this amazing metropolis.

It has become a popular shopping destination, with plenty to offer no matter your preference or budget. There are plenty of food and drink venues where you can enjoy a range of offerings while you catch your breath.

20. Norwich

The historic city of Norwich is a glimpse into the royal merchant towns of the Middle Ages. The amazing landmarks of Norwich Cathedral and Norwich Castle were built on the huge wealth of trade guilds which ran the city, and are still impressive today.

If you want to know what life was really like in its heyday, take a walk down cobbled lanes past the colourful houses of Elm Hill – the most complete medieval street in the city!

The reputation of medieval Norwich for patronage of the arts continues today, with plenty of cultural offerings including the Norwich Festival and the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts .

So, if you’re visiting the UK this summer, make sure to check out some of its best cities, and experience the history and charm that the UK has to offer!

Alice is an historian at St Anne’s College, Oxford, where she teaches undergraduate history (predominantly medieval history and historiographical theory). She is also a freelance writer and editor, and a research assistant at the Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Studies.

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migrating golden plovers at Rye Harbour, with birdwatching hide

20 new UK attractions to visit in 2020

The coming year will see a bumper crop of openings and relaunches, including adventure parks, wellbeing centres, theatres and museums

Rye Harbour Discovery Centre, East Sussex – March

The 450-hectare Rye Harbour nature reserve, with its coastal habitats of grassland, saltmarsh, and sand and shingle shoreline, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year with a new visitor centre opening in association with Sussex Wildlife Trust. It aims to help visitors better experience the area’s flora and fauna of more than 4,200 plants and animals, including 200 rare and endangered species. There’ll also be a new cafe and exhibition and education spaces, with a programme of activities, training and conservation projects. ryeharbourdiscoverycentre.org.uk

City Pool and Turkish Baths, Newcastle upon Tyne – January

City Pool and Turkish Baths, Newcastle Gateshead

The redevelopment of Newcastle’s city pool into a health and wellbeing centre has included careful restoration of original features such as 19th-century arches and alcoves, 1920s pool hall tiles (revealed beneath layers of paint), wood-panelled changing rooms and terrazzo flooring. Alongside the 25-metre pool and Turkish baths, the Grade-II listed site will also include a new spa, cafe-bistro and fitness studios. Built in 1927 and opened in 1928, the site closed because of council cuts in 2013, but sport and leisure charity Fusion Lifestyle began to redevelop it in 2017 after campaigners secured the space’s status as an asset of community value. city-baths.co.uk

Sea Lanes, East Sussex – spring

open air pool by sea and with seafront road

After a 2018 summer pop-up on Brighton seafront saw thousands of visitors taking part in guided sea swims, open water events and beachside yoga, a permanent National Open Water Swimming Centre is set to open on the same spot. Overwhelmingly positive feedback from the local community helped the Sea Lanes gain planning permission to transform the Madeira Drive site into a permanent outdoor heated pool with 39 units for small businesses. SwimTrek has already signed up to have its new headquarters here, alongside food kiosks, shops and fitness spaces. sealanesbrighton.co.uk

The Box, Devon – spring

The former museum and library buildings between Plymouth’s university and its art college are being transformed into a new cultural hub. The Grade-II listed site will be refurbished with a contemporary extension housing an archive on the marine heritage of the city and the south-west, a museum of local stories, exhibition space for contemporary art and touring shows and a study centre, plus a cafe and a new piazza. Mayflower 400: Legend and Legacy will be the first exhibition, recounting the vessel’s 1620 voyage from Plymouth to America. plymhearts.org

Bewilderwood, Cheshire – spring

The Bewilderwood treehouses and rope bridges are to be recreated at a new site in the grounds of Cholmondeley Castle in Cheshire.

Aiming to inspire creativity and play amid nature, a second Bewilderwood adventure park is opening, this time in the grounds of Cholmondeley Castle in south Cheshire. The first park, in Norfolk , was founded by children’s author Tom Blofeld in 2007. At the woodland site, ziplines, rope bridges and slides, tree houses, mazes, aerial and ground walks and interactive storytelling stages will entertain under-16s and their families. The early-19th-century Cholmondeley estate also includes floral, water and ornamental gardens, a farm shop and tearoom. bewilderwood.co.uk

Bodmin Jail, Cornwall – May

A new immersive attraction, the Dark Walk, opens in May at 18th-century Bodmin Jail, alongside renovation across the whole museum. The interactive route will take visitors on a journey through life in the 18th and 19th centuries, exploring the history of the region, the jail and its former inmates, and dark tales of highway robbers, smugglers and the Beast of Bodmin Moor. Later in the year, a hotel will open in the Grade-II listed building, with its 70 bedrooms in former cells. A bat sanctuary is also in development, to protect the nine species that have made their home locally. bodminjail.org

Tornado Springs at Paultons Park, Hampshire – May

A new 1950s Americana-themed area is opening at Paultons Park on the Southampton side of the New Forest, reimagining a Midwest desert town. New rides include a spinning roller coaster, Storm Chaser; the Buffalo Falls water raft ride; the swinging, spinning pendulum Cyclonator; Windmill Towers drop rides; Al’s Auto Academy Driving School; Trekking Tractors; and a Rio Grande Train ride. The area, like the park, is aimed at ages 3 to 14, and will also include a diner-style restaurant, a sweet shop and two playgrounds, Parking Lot Tots and Junkyard Junction. It’s the fifth themed world at Paultons, alongside Peppa Pig World, Critter Creek, Little Africa and Jurassic-themed Lost Kingdom. paultonspark.co.uk

Gulliver’s Valley, South Yorkshire – June

A 250-acre site between Sheffield and Rotherham will soon be home to the fourth family-friendly Gulliver’s theme park, loosely based on the 1726 novel by Jonathan Swift. Its largest resort to date, and will be aimed at aged 2-13-year-olds, with more than 50 rides and attractions across multiple themed areas, including Western World, Toyland, Smuggler’s Wharf, Lost Jurassic World (pictured) and, for the youngest visitors, Lilliput Land. Onsite short-break accommodation (from £199 a night for a family of four) includes self-catering lodges, treehouses and family rooms with bunk beds, all a few minutes’s drive from the nature reserves and watersports centre at Rother Valley Country Park. gulliversvalleyresort.co.uk

Dorset County Museum – summer

From the Swanage Snapper (a 140 million-year-old crocodile skull from the cretaceous period) to Thomas Hardy’s handwritten notebooks – many more of the 4 million objects in the Dorset County Museum collection will be going on display in its new extended galleries this summer. The redeveloped site, co-owned by the Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society, will also include a learning centre, research spaces, a shop, tearoom and improved archive. Dorsetcountymuseum.org

Llys-y-Frân Lake, Pembrokeshire – summer

Dragon boat race on Llys-y-Fran reservoir.

Country park and reservoir Llys-y-Frân, south of the Preseli hills in Wales, is undergoing extensive redevelopment to transform it into the “great Welsh water park”. There will be a new outdoor activity centre and waterside cabin, a bike pump skills area, 14km of cycle tracks, a refurbished visitor centre and cafe, and camping and caravan pitches. Llys-y-Frân is a significant site for fishing – hosting national and international competitions – as well as windsurfing, rowing, canoeing, sailing and the Welsh Dragon Boat Championships. Llys-y-fran.co.uk

The Museum of the Home, London – summer

A two-year project, called Unlocking the Geffrye, will be completed in 2020, when the east London museum will reopen with 80% more space for exhibitions, events and collections. The brand new Home Galleries will explore everyday experiences of making, keeping and being at home over the past 400 years. Other developments include a new cafe, library and “domestic gamechangers” exhibition, alongside renovation of the popular period rooms and gardens. museumofthehome.org.uk

The Roundhouse, Birmingham – summer

Built in 1874, the crescent-shaped Roundhouse was originally used as a canalside stables and stores. It was bought by the Canal and River Trust in 2001, which partnered with the National Trust in 2017 to renovate the Grade-II listed site. The aim is to create a new centre for exploring the area’s canal network, alongside independent shops, cafes, exhibition spaces, a cycle hire and repair workshop, boat tours and a shared working space for conservation organisations. nationaltrust.org.uk

RHS Garden Bridgewater, Manchester – summer

Tree planting in the Paradise Garden at RHS Bridgewater

More than 700 volunteers from the local community plus a herd of Berkshire pigs have helped dig over the birch glade at the new Royal Horticultural Society Garden in Salford, Greater Manchester. The Bridgewater Garden, in the grounds of the former Worsley New Hall, will be the RHS’s first new garden in 17 years – and the largest gardening project in Europe. The site will feature a kitchen garden, a learning garden, a heritage orchard, and wild woodland play structures for children. Community allotments will grow food for local food banks, and a therapeutic garden will be used in a new “social prescribing” project for people with disabilities, chronic illness and dementia. rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater

Hambledon Vineyard, Hampshire – autumn

A field of chardonnay grapes at Hambledon Vineyard.

The English sparkling wine industry has gone from strength to strength in recent years, particularly in the south-east. Hambledon Vineyard , on the edge of the South Downs national park, is one of the UK’s oldest commercial vineyards, set on 80 hectares of chalky slopes producing chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier – the three grape varieties most commonly used in champagne. Plans for development include a new tasting room and visitor centre overlooking the vineyards, new tours and increased wine storage capacity in a new underground cellar. Hambledon is the only gravity-fed winery in the UK, allowing wines to be created with minimal intervention and more energy efficient production. hambledonvineyard.co.uk

Derby Silk Mill: Museum of Making – autumn

Aiming to inspire a new generation of makers and innovators, a former silk mill at Unesco world heritage site Derwent Valley Mills is the new home of 50,000 objects from the area’s 300-year-long industrial history. Lombe’s Mill is thought to be one of the first fully mechanised factories in the world, and will be the home of the new Museum of Making. The Rolls-Royce Eagle Engine, which helped power the first transatlantic flight in 1919, will be among the exhibits, alongside significant items from railway and (more recent) gaming history, and more. The first in a series of collaborative initiatives and events, the Re:Make the Museum project invited hundreds of local community members as citizen curators and makers to form the basis of the inaugural exhibition. derbymuseums.org

Mercury Theatre, Essex – autumn

Aint Misbehavin’ at Colchester’s Mercury Theatre

Archaeological excavation in historic Colchester has so far uncovered two of the five Roman theatres in the UK. And when renovation work on the modern-day Mercury Theatre began, brightly coloured Roman plaster, a medieval hearth and an English Civil War-era musket ball were among the discoveries made under the former wardrobe department, offices and restaurant. This area will soon be home to a new production block, with two rehearsal rooms. Development of the site, which opened in 1972, will also see a bigger, brighter foyer, more seating, improved accessibility, a new cafe, revamped backstage facilities and spaces for outreach work and new talent. mercurytheatre.co.uk

Fotografiska London – late 2020

London’s largest permanent photography gallery will open in the White Chapel Building in east London later this year, with over 8,000 square metres of exhibition spaces, restaurants, bars and a photography academy, and a programme of exhibitions, talks, screenings and more. It’s the third international site (after Tallinn and New York) for the Stockholm-based Fotografiska Organisation, which opened in 2010 and has hosted exhibitions by artists including Annie Leibovitz, Sally Mann, David LaChapelle and Helmut Newton. fotografiska.com/london

Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Gloucestershire – various dates

Drawings of wildfowl heads and beaks by Nicola, daughter of Peter Scott

The 100-acre Slimbridge wetland wildlife reserve has 12 new attractions open in 2020. Already complete are a Scott-era research hut, the Scott House Museum (named after WWT founder and conservation leader Peter Scott), a Waterscapes Aviary and an estuary tower hide offering views of the Severn estuary with, often, thousands of wild birds. At Easter, the open-air Living Wetland Theatre will open, offering film screenings and interactive live shows as birds fly overhead. A new Severn estuary walkway is due to be completed in time for the summer, a place to spot amphibians, dragonflies and butterflies. wwt.org

Woolwich Works, London – late 2020

Five historic military buildings in south-east London – the Fireworks Factory, the Academy, the Cartridge Factory, the Carriageworks and the Laboratory – are being redeveloped to house theatre, art, dance, music and restaurants. New residents will include immersive theatre company Punchdrunk, dance company Protein, the Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair, and Chineke!, Europe’s first BAME orchestra. royalgreenwich.gov.uk

New bridges for Illuminated River, London – winter

Illuminated Cannon Street bridge, with St Pauls in background

With plans to light up 14 bridges along the Thames, Illuminated River will be one of the longest public art projects in the world, aiming to encourage enjoyment of the river and riverside at night, while highlighting the bridges’ historical and architectural importance. Changing sequences of LEDs have been conceived for each bridge by artist Leo Villareal. Work on London Bridge and the Cannon Street, Southwark and Millennium bridges was completed in summer 2019. Next, to be finished by autumn 2020, will be Blackfriars, Waterloo, Lambeth and Westminster bridges and the Golden Jubilee Footbridge (formerly Hungerford Bridge). Still to come are Tower Bridge plus Vauxhall, Grosvenor Railway, Chelsea and Albert bridge. Illuminatedriver.london

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The 17 Best Cities to Visit in The UK in 2020
Best Places to Visit in England
13 Absolute Best Cities to Visit in the UK (+Map & Travel Tips)
19 Absolute Best Places to Visit in the UK
Best places to visit in England
15 Of The Best Cities To Visit In England

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COMMENTS

25 Best Cities in England
6. Oxford. Back down south, Oxford is another university city in England that deserves a place on my list. The colleges in Oxford have gorgeous heritage architecture and the city is rife with historic pubs, museums, and markets. Oxford is famous for its Harry Potter and Alice in Wonderland connections, too.
15 Absolute Best Cities to Visit in the UK (+Map & Travel Tips)
1. London. London really has to be number one on any list of the best places in the UK! And there are so many reasons to visit the nation's capital. Located on the banks of the River Thames, London is the country's financial center, the seat of the Government of the United Kingdom, and home to the Royal Family.
The best cities in the UK: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards
1. Cardiff. Score 86.84. The playful Welsh capital takes the top spot for 2023 with its exciting independent restaurants, buzzy bars and up-and-coming neighbourhoods. Take a bite into the cool food scene and discover the unmissable places to visit with our guide to the best things to do in Cardiff.
25 of the best places to visit in the UK
Here are 25 of the best places to visit in the UK from Hadrian's Wall to Hull. From vibrant cities to the scenic outdoors, the United Kingdom is a diverse destination. ... 2020 Link Copied! The ...
14 Best Cities to Visit in England (+Map)
8. Nottingham. Nicknamed the Queen of the Midlands, Nottingham is an underrated and scenic city in the heart of England. Whether you're a history fan or an architectural enthusiast, the 11th century Nottingham Castle is certainly worth a visit. The famous Robin Hood statue is located just outside the castle walls.
17 Best Cities in the UK to Visit Right Now
1. London (Largest City) As the capital of England and the country's largest, London was always going to be on this list. It is one of the greatest arts and cultural hubs in both Europe and the rest of the world. London is easily the most popular and famous to visit in England, and for many good reasons.
28 best places to visit in England: the ultimate England bucket list! 2021
For 12 day trips in Dorset, check out this post. 6. Bristol. One of England's most creative cities, Bristol should definitely be on your England bucket list. The birthplace of Banksy and home to the International Balloon Fiesta, Bristol is definitely one of the coolest places to visit in England. 7.
12 Very Best Cities in England to visit
Bristol. A cultural hub offering visitors great shopping, live music, wining and dining opportunities Bristol is the largest city in South West England. Bath is only 12 miles to the east of Bristol and 120 miles west of London. Street artist Banksy is from Bristol and works can be found around the city.
16 best places to visit in England
6. York. With its Roman and Viking heritage, ancient city walls and maze of cobbled streets, York is a living record of English history. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider's web of "snickelways" (narrow alleys), each one the focus of a ghost story or historical character.
The 19 Best Cities to Visit in the UK
Inverness. Located in the northeast of Scotland, Inverness is the capital of the Scottish Highlands. With the famous Loch Ness and the natural wonders of the Highlands right on its doorstep, it is no surprise that it is considered one of the best cities to visit in the UK. It is a great option for a weekend break or as a base for a longer holiday.
30 of the best places to visit in the UK
20. Giant's Causeway. The Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland is the perfect place to visit to get those Insta-worthy photos… it's beautiful! The coastal views, the myths and legends and the friendly locals make this an amazing place to visit and one of the best places to visit in the UK for the weekend. 21.
The 24 best cities to visit in the UK
1. Bangor, Northern Ireland. Bangor is one of the newest cities in the UK, having been awarded city status as part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022. It's one of the most popular places to visit in Northern Ireland and is known for being a lovely seaside city.
8 best cities to visit in England and what you can do in each
Some of her favorite cities include Tokyo, New York, and Taipei. Amelia is fluent in English, Chinese, basic Korean, and intermediate Japanese. Immerse yourself in England's landscapes, attractions, and cultural experiences. Here are 8 top cities you need to explore in England.
25 Best Places To Visit In The UK (2024)
1 - LAKE DISTRICT, ENGLAND. The Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a national park in northwest England blessed with some of the finest mountain scenery in the country. It's a popular vacation destination in the UK with craggy hills framing ribbon lakes, connected by rivers that course through valleys.
30 Best Places to Visit in The UK (2023)
1- The Lake District, England. One of the best places to visit in the UK is, without a doubt, the incredible Lake District, the largest National Park in England and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to Scafell Pike, its highest mountain, and Wastwater, its deepest lake. Located in northwest England, this mountainous area is the ideal ...
UK city breaks: the 13 best to take in 2024
So many places to visit in the UK, so little time.For a quick trip, we've rounded up the best UK city breaks to take in 2024, in no particular order, as selected by the editors of Condé Nast Traveller.Thankfully, the UK is flecked with diverse cities packed with world-class museums, some of the world's best restaurants and bars, cute bakeries, beautiful parks and gorgeous shops.
19 Best Places to Visit in the UK
10. England's Pilgrimage City: Canterbury. Canterbury. Pay a visit to historic Canterbury in Kent, and you'll soon discover why this beautiful city continues to be such a draw for visitors to the UK. An easy hour's train ride from central London, Canterbury has been a draw for visitors for centuries.
15 Best Places to Visit in England
Here are the 15 best places to visit in England. 1. Let loose in London. As one of the most vibrant cities in the world, London is a must-see destination on a trip to England. You've probably seen its iconic red phone booths and double-decker buses, but the city has much more to offer. World-class museums and galleries, fascinating historic ...
20 Best Cities to Visit in the UK
1. London. Recently voted Europe's best city for culture, the UK capital is a must-see!Home to the royal family, London has plenty of historic attractions to visit, including the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace.For art lovers, check out the National Gallery, the Royal Academy of Arts or the Tate Modern for some of the most famous collections in the world.
10 of the UK's best hidden destinations: readers' travel tips
Thu 16 Jul 2020 01.30 EDT Last modified on Thu 16 Jul 2020 03.14 EDT Share The Guardian's product and service reviews are independent and are in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial ...
20 of the best autumn getaways around the UK
Sat 19 Sep 2020 02.00 EDT Last modified on Mon 21 Sep 2020 05.40 EDT. Share. ... the New Forest is one of Europe's best places to spot autumn fungi. ... The UK's best place to see bottlenose ...
20 new UK attractions to visit in 2020
Woolwich Works, London - late 2020. Five historic military buildings in south-east London - the Fireworks Factory, the Academy, the Cartridge Factory, the Carriageworks and the Laboratory ...
The Best Cities To Explore In The UK (Top 3 Picks for 2020)
One of the most culturally significant countries not just in Europe but also in the wider world, the UK is an excellent tourist destination, oozing culture that has influenced many different people, and with plenty of variety, too, depending on which city you choose to visit. Got a little bit...
Explore a map of the next 15 total solar eclipses
This map of eclipse paths from 2024 to 2044 reveals that Australia hit the jackpot: Over just 11 years, the continent (lower right) will see four total solar eclipses — in 2028, 2030, 2037 and 2038.

A Lady in London

Lady’s 25 Best Cities in England

Best Cities in England

4. Cambridge

7. Canterbury

8. Winchester

10. Newcastle

11. Birmingham

12. Brighton

15. Norwich

16. Nottingham

17. Leicester

18. Liverpool

19. Manchester

20. Bristol

23. St Albans

24. Lincoln

25. City of London

Cities in England

6 Comments on Lady’s 25 Best Cities in England

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15 Absolute Best Cities to Visit in the UK (+Map & Travel Tips)

2. Edinburgh

3. Cambridge

8. Liverpool

10. Cardiff

11. Nottingham

12. Manchester

13. Norwich

14. Bristol

15. Brighton

14 Best Cities to Visit in England

14. Cambridge

12. Brighton

11. Manchester

9. Liverpool

8. Nottingham

7. Newcastle

Map of cities in England

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17 Best Cities in the UK to Visit Right Now

Top Cities in the UK

1. London (Largest City)

2. Manchester

4. Edinburgh

8. Liverpool

10. Newcastle upon Tyne

11. Birmingham (Second Largest City)

12. Brighton

13. Cardiff

14. Cambridge

17. Inverness

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