british towns to visit

A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

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.

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.

Find this post helpful? Buy me a coffee!

New here? Join thousands of others and subscribe to the A Lady in London blog via email .

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.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

© Copyright A Lady in London 2007 - 2024. Privacy Policy.

15 UK market towns you’ll want to discover

These lovely and lively towns – for a day trip or spring getaway – also make great bases for exploring the nearby countryside

Ludlow, Shropshire

As one of the country’s celebrated foodie hubs, Ludlow will become a battle zone for outdoor table slots now that lockdown has relaxed.

In a region famed for its wealth of local produce though, even low-key venues pack a flavour into every dish. Opt for takeaway salad boxes or cook-at-home three-course-meal kits from The Green Cafe , grab a box of nibbles go from Cicchetti Bar Ludlow or fine fare from Harp Lane Deli , where ingredients such as Amalfi lemons, n’duja and cognac are used as commonly as salt and butter by most of us.

Along with the medieval streets of black- and-white buildings, this town is particularly ogle-able thanks to the sight of Ludlow Castle (adult £8, child £3.50) rising above the River Teme in the centre. It’s just reopened for tours.

Like many of the country’s small museums, the pandemic left the Land of Lost Content (adult £8, child £4, book ahead ) in nearby market town Craven Arms, desperate for visitors. This one’s as quirky as they come, a trove of the nostalgic ephemera of everyday life. Accommodation options left with Sykes for the next month include the black-and-white half-timbered Stone House (sleeps four, £555 for seven nights in May) in the village of Caynham three miles away, which has its own bronze and iron age earthworks.

Glossop, Peak District

Name the key towns around the fringes of the Peak District national park and you’re likely to think of Bakewell, Buxton and Matlock first, but Glossop, to the north-west of the park not far from Manchester, has plenty going for it. Its oldest parts date from the 12th century, cotton mills have been transformed into shops and pubs, and pre-pandemic there was a growing creative community of musicians, artists, makers and founders of independent stores and venues.

Pick up healthy picnic stuff from zero waste-focused Glossop Wholefoods and head out on the many walking and cycling trails into the Dark Peak region – that’s the wilder, higher moorland and gritstone area of the Peak District (as opposed to the lower White Peak limestone plateau).

Options include the seven-mile Longdendale Trail cycle route along an old railway trackbed to five reservoirs, the Pennine Way or the Pennine Bridleway National Trail. Drivers or cyclists could follow the A57 Snake Pass across the park to Ladybower Reservoir, Edale and the Hope valley for more outdoorsy shenanigans. Polish off your day with a superior pint from Glossop’s Howard Town Brewery , whose tap beer garden has just reopened.

If you fancy staying over, cottages.com offers the smart Kinder Apartment (sleeps two, from £435 in May). Gorgeous options with availability later in the year include rustic Allmans Heath Cottage Byre (sleeps two, from £80 a night) and Woodcock Farm , a design-led barn conversion with two cottages each sleeping two (from £110 a night).

Wetherby, West Yorkshire

On the banks of the River Wharfe, within easy reach of Leeds, York and Harrogate, the market town of Wetherby is a reet nice spot. The compact centre looks like Elton John’s dressing table in spring and summer, when this “floral town” is bedecked in blooms. Wetherby’s old-school cinema won’t reopen until mid- May, but outdoor attractions include the Jubilee Gardens and Grade II-listed Georgian Bath House , the attractive Church Street and Shambles – with shops under the arches – and a farmers’ market on the second Sunday of the month.

Passing through Wetherby, the easy Harland Way cycle track follows a disused railway line to 14th-century Spofforth Castle, and a local team of mountain-biking volunteers have been busy creating a series of tracks for Wetherby Bike Trails , including a new section of berms and banks cheekily named Lateral Flow.

“Very generous portions” are served in the beer garden of The Windmill Inn in Linton. And just outside in Clifford, Westwood Cottage (sleeps four, from £415 for six nights in May) is one of a few round these parts from Yorkshire Cottages .

Alresford, Hampshire

Quiet, a little chichi, with a gorgeous Georgian high street of colourful buildings housing independent shops and cafes, the market town of Alresford, 7½ miles from Winchester, is perfect for a relaxed escape. You’re not going to be winkling out edgy neighbourhoods here, just wandering beside the river on the Alre Valley Trail , tackling the Pilgrims Way, Watercress Way or Itchen Way , eating picnics supplied by Heidi’s Patisserie or Long Barn Cafe , which has a garden shop. Make sure you ask for watercress with that.

The town and surrounding area are famed for growing and trading the highly nutritious leafy green. It is with regret I write that this year’s Watercress festival (usually in May) has been cancelled, but – exhale – it’s going to hold the “first ever” virtual Watercress festival instead (nothing says “I’ve exhausted Netflix” like signing up for this one).

The Watercress Line (single tickets £16 adult, £8 child, book ahead), a heritage steam railway that once connected to London, is now open again, with spring events set to go ahead including a Day Out With Thomas for kids (£65 for four people, from 29 May), complete with live Fat Controller.

For a quirky accommodation option, Watercress Lodges and Campsite overlooks the railway, with six lodges styled to look like railway cottages (sleep six, from £100 a night, campsite and tipis open later in May).

Good pubs include the Bush Inn in neighbouring Ovington, with a waterside garden by the River Itchen. And Hattingley Valley Wines in the nearby village of Lower Wield is an eco-friendly vineyard specialising in sparkling whites, where tours (£17.50, book ahead) with tastings have resumed.

Ramsbottom, Greater Manchester

On the edge of the West Pennine Moors to the north of Manchester, this market town is fast becoming one of the trendier and desirable parts of the city’s outer reaches thanks to its music scene, independent shops and restaurants. Get back into the swing of raising pint glass to lips at great pubs such as the Eagle + Child , with a huge beer garden set among the pots and vegetable patches of the pub’s allotment, and try to bag an outdoor table at pintxo bar Baratxuri and/or its sister restaurant Levanter .

Hopefully the weather will play ball for walks into the Irwell valley to the Irwell Sculpture Trail , or for exploring the Forest of Bowland or Peak District national park, each a 30 minute drive away. The East Lancashire Steam Train (adult £13 round-trip, child £8.50, book ahead) reopens on 1 May.

Move fast to bag Springfield (sleeps six, £339 for two nights in May or June), a gorgeous white Victorian house with rooms painted grey and blue, near paths into the National Trust’s Stubbins Estate , where the tall Peel Tower tops the wooded hillsides and moorland overlooking the town.

Saffron Walden, Essex

Colourful half-timbered buildings overhang sloping medieval streets in this genteel hub in the Essex countryside. Until indoor life resumes, spend time in the wealth of fancy gardens nearby, not least Capability Brown’s at Audley End (£19 adult, £11.40 child, English Heritage members free, book ahead), the grandest of grand country mansions. Quirkier plantings include the humpy bumpy Turf Maze on the town common, the largest example of its type in the world. At the end of May, the free Fry Art Gallery should reopen, showing work by Eric Ravilious, John Aldridge, Grayson Perry and more.

Embrace reopening at The Cricketers , Jamie Oliver’s parents’ 16th-century pub, in the nearby village of Clavering, for cask ales and seasonal fare in the fairy-lit “spring garden tipi”.

A smattering of places to stay in or near the town remain for April/May on cottages.com , including Ivy Todd Barn (sleeps six, from £785 for seven nights in April or May), a converted barn with exposed beams.

Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland

Fancy a beach break? Turn your eyes from booked-up Cornwall to the other end of the country, where a visit to the old shipbuilding border town of Berwick-upon-Tweed can be combined with the wide-open sands of the Northumberland coast.

Start by walking round Berwick on its mile-long Elizabethan town walls, then cross the River Tweed to Spittal beach, a typical Victorian seaside resort with promenade, lighthouse and children’s splash park. From here the Northumberland Coastal Path leads south towards Holy Island, or you can join the Sandstone Way , a new long-distance mountain biking route. Four miles south, the vast beach at Cocklawburn has rock pools and grassy dunes.

Back in town, many pubs and restaurants have embraced the slow food movement, including Foxton’s Wine Bar , serving moules- frîtes and roasts again in its garden marquees.

Self-catering options include Bankhill Cottage (sleeps four, from £982 a week in May), and “ secret cottage ” (sleeping two from £117 a night in April and May), both on Airbnb.

Wareham, Dorset

Threaded through by the rivers Frome and Piddle, pretty Wareham has all of classic Dorset within reach while remaining far less touristy than many places in the county. Most of the action is outdoors- focused, from Ammonite-inspired fossil-finding fun on the Jurassic Coast and walking in the Purbeck Hills to taking towels to the enormous sandy beach at Studland Bay.

Worth a trip, too, is the Blue Pool nature reserve , around a deep rain-filled clay pit that is turned a vibrant shade by suspended clay particles. The surrounding heathland is home to rare green sand lizards, buzzards and sika deer. It also has a super tearoom.

If it’s real ale, curry, pies and squid rings you’ve been missing, go to the garden of the Horse and Groom . Also open again are the independent homeware stores, delis and zero-plastic food shops that line South Street down to the Quay, where boat trips run up the River Frome and to Poole Harbour – you can also hire your own boats and kayaks.

Attractions-wise there’s Corfe Castle (£10 adult, £5 child, National Trust members free, book ahead), from where you could walk the stunning Purbeck Ridgeway to the coast, returning aboard the Swanage Railway steam train (single ticket £9 adult and £5.50 child, book ahead); and the blossom-filled gardens of Venetian-style-swank-palace Kingston Lacey (£13 adult, £6.50 child, NT members free, book ahead).

Dream Cottages has a few Wareham pads left including the Old Post Office (sleeps eight, from £887 a week in April), and light, bright Elm Villa (sleeps six, from £1,342 a week in June).

Midhurst, West Sussex

In the centre of the South Downs national park and home to its official visitor centre, Midhurst combines gorgeously buxom countryside with a wealth of cutesy stores. While neighbouring Petworth is tumbling with antiques shops, Midhurst is all posh-boho independents, for all your bunting and billowing-cotton-dress needs.

The Crafty Pint shop will do you for unusual bottles of beer to take on picnics by the River Rother, which runs through town and through the nearby Woolbeding Estate, with accompanying footpaths . Or order a picnic hamper or wood-fired pizza from the farm shop of the Cowdray Estate.

From here it’s easy to make trips to Chichester, Arundel Castle (garden entry £12 adult, £6 child, book ahead) for its spectacular flowers, or the Weald and Downland Museum (adult £15.50, child £7.50, book ahead), an outdoor heritage site collating rescued rural buildings spanning 1,000 years of history.

Like everywhere, self-catering accommodation is heavily booked for the coming months, but Airbnb has a few flats available in April and May from around £100-160 a night for two people.

Monmouth, Monmouthshire

As a busy market town in the ridiculously picturesque lower part of the Wye valley and at the confluence of the rivers Wye and Monnow, Monmouth is a gorgeous base for canoeing (try Monmouth Canoe for hires) and walking the Offa’s Dyke Path.

Even closer points of interest worth wandering to are the ruins of Monmouth Castle (free and open to wander into) and, a little way upriver, the triple-arched Monnow Bridge, the last remaining medieval fortified bridge in the UK, with its gate tower still intact. Atop the hillside Kymin nearby is a white tower built in 1794 for a group of local gentlemen to dine in – like a prototype man shed for nobles. Also look out for the blue plaques of the Monmouth Heritage Trail, indicating 24 of the town’s most interesting historic sites.

Now shops are open again, you can browse the many independents here, and 10 minutes’ walk from the centre is the Secret Walled Garden, a Tudor garden with a perfume workshop, Monmouth Botanicals , and two glamping cabins , including Apple Tree, which has a hot tub (sleeps two, from £200 a night in May).

If you don’t fancy cooking over fire, procure some fragrant Thai takeaway from the raved-about Whole Earth Cafe and Bistro .

Machynlleth, Powys

A little bit arty, a little bit eco, pretty outdoorsy and very quaint, Machynlleth is a mid-Wales market town with everything going for it. Surrounded by glorious countryside and with southern Snowdonia to the north, it’s well-placed for hikes along the Glyndwr Way long-distance trail and mountain biking on well-kept trails through the nearby Dyfi Forest . Investigate vintage shops and book stores, pick up bara brith bread and local cheese from Cletwr and, when it reopens, pop into the Museum of Modern Art to check out its strong collection.

Sustainable living is rife here, not just a fad – after all it’s where the Centre for Alternative Technology was established in the 1970s, in an old slate quarry. Hopefully its courses and exhibitions will resume shortly. Nature lovers will want to visit the RSPB Ynys-hir nature reserve and get the binocs out to spy migrating ospreys returning to the Cors Dyfi nature reserve.

Near Machynlleth, Under The Thatch offers an off-grid, pink walled converted barn, Ysgubor Dyfi (sleeps eight, £694 for four nights in April, but from £469 if there’s only two of you) in an isolated position in the Dyfi valley. Or there’s Llwydiarth Hall (sleeps 14, £1,710 for seven nights in May), a huge period house surrounded by mountains.

Chepstow, Monmouthshire

It’s not only the racecourse that brings folk to Chepstow in south Wales. Walking in the Lower Wye valley and a glut of historic attractions mean there’s loads to do, even if the wide variety of music festivals usually held here don’t go ahead this year.

Focusing on outdoors attractions, Chepstow Castle ( currently free but book ahead) is most visitors’ first port of call, but don’t miss the Dewstow Gardens and Grottoes (adult £7.50, child from £2.50, book ahead), a moss-dripping, fern-wafting verdant wonderland of tunnels and caves and tropical planting, or the graceful Gothic ruin of Tintern Abbey (free, book ahead).

Castle House Apartment 1 (sleeps two, from £635 for seven nights in April) is one of several here with cottages.com , or hire a yurt on a farm at Hidden Valley Yurts (each sleeping seven from £839 for three nights in April).

Linlithgow, West Lothian

Less than 30 minutes by rail from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, the small and picturesque town of Linlithgow is a winsome spot for exploring a side of Scotland away from the Highlands. Here hikes follow the Linlithgow Canal, the river Avon and circumnavigate the town loch, which only takes an hour.

The most famous attraction is Linlithgow Royal Palace (adult £7.20, child £4.30, reopens 30 April), birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots and home to many other Scottish kings and queens, now a dramatic shell of a building that overlooks the loch. The town’s history as a Royal Burgh is told in the free Linlithgow Museum .

The high street is lined with 17th-century pubs and independent shops; locally grown produce and organic groceries come from Grow Wild ; and places to hire bikes and electric bikes include Easygo and Elevation Cycles . You could take them up to Beescraigs Country Park , a free, 369-hectare space in the Bathgate Hills.

You’ve missed the Linlithgow Distillery ’s special Easter gin, but other unusual flavours can be ordered ahead for collection, for nightcaps in your bolthole. Perhaps a kooky triangular wooden cabin with veranda at Craigs Lodges (sleeps five, from £173 for three nights in May).

Forres, Moray

One of Scotland’s oldest towns, Forres, 25 miles north-east of Inverness and almost on the Moray Firth, is as lovely and off-radar as they come. A creative streak runs through it, with galleries and craft shops adding interest to the centre, and a little way north you can walk around the bay of Findhorn to the splendid fishing village of the same name for seafood, a long sandy beach and handmade ceramics at the Findhorn Pottery .

A few miles away is rose-coloured Brodie Castle (£5 for garden, NTS members free) where bloom-filled gardens feature great swathes of daffodils – 400 species of them– in spring; the evocative ruins of Elgin Cathedral (reopens 30 April, adult £9, child £5.40); and along the coast is Nairn, with opportunities for spotting dolphins and minke whales. That’s without even mentioning all the wonders of the nearby Highlands.

As to where to stay, Easter Wood (sleeping two from £50 a night in May and June) is a simple studio annexe attached to an eco-house. Holiday Lettings and Eco Holiday Shop have a few properties in the town; and if you happen to have a huge household and bubble, there’s Dalvey House (sleeps 18, from £2,647 a week in May), a grand mansion with vast grounds – though perhaps this is a better option for a big party once the rules are fully relaxed.

Coleraine, County Derry

As a base for exploring the Causeway Coast, making trips to the amazing wide sandy Atlantic beaches a few miles to the north, and visiting Bushmills , with its famous distillery and inn (pubs in Northern Ireland are still closed and the region’s roadmap does not have specific dates), you could do worse than Coleraine. This small but affluent town on the River Bann has a few interesting sites of its own, too, particularly the Mountsandel Fort (free), a Mesolithic site dating to 7000BC, now mainly grassy lumps and bumps, in the Mountsandel Forest. Also close is the medieval Dunluce Castle (adult £4.50, child £4), dramatically poised on an outcrop above the sea, sure to be a victim of coastal erosion before too many more centuries pass by.

You’re spoiled for choice of beaches, with Portrush, Portstewart and Benone nearby. When it reopens, the Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills Railway (return £6 adult, £4 child) is a charming way to tour the coast, in vintage red carriages on a narrow-gauge track.

Kings Country Cottages (from £440 a week for a cottage sleeping six) is a collection of properties of various sizes attached to a farm with goats, lambs and llamas.

Or if that’s full on your dates, Holiday Lettings has a supply of – it has to be said – fairly basic self-catering places in the town, of which Quiet Waters Cottage (sleeping six from £112 a night) is the sweetest-looking. Opening details, accommodation availability and prices correct at the time of going to press

• United Kingdom holidays
• Short breaks
• Weekend breaks
• Rest and relaxation

Most viewed

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

8 Picturesque Small Towns in England

These delightful small towns in England offer everything from craggy coves and cream teas to hillside picnics and frothing pints.

Mandy Haakenson/Travel + Leisure

Nowhere else in the world does "quaint" quite like England. Go beyond the main urban hubs like London , Birmingham, and Manchester, and you'll discover hundreds of picturesque smaller towns that have inspired poets, painters, and playwrights with their beauty.

From historic fishing hamlets to idyllic country villages, England's green and pleasant land is teeming with charm. Even better, it's all incredibly well connected via national rail links. If you're planning a trip across the pond, read on for the rural change of pace your itinerary needs. These are eight of the best small towns in England, all packed with delightful scenery, fascinating history, delicious food, and more.

Avebury, Wiltshire

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Many people have likely heard of Stonehenge, but few know of Avebury, a delightful village under an hour from the mighty monoliths. While nowhere near as old as its Neolithic neighbor, Avebury still has plenty of its own history to show off, as the town dates back more than 1,000 years. Much of the village is surrounded by another ancient stone circle, while more modern highlights include the grand 16th-century Avebury Manor and Garden and glorious village pub, Red Lion , which is famed for its roaring fire and warming comfort food.

Tintagel, Cornwall

Situated on Cornwall's dramatic Atlantic coast, Tintagel is heavily entwined with the legend of King Arthur, who supposedly ruled from his stronghold here. As a result, the craggy cliffside castle ruins are a popular tourist attraction, as is Merlin's Cave, a natural cavern at the base of the cliffs, where the wizard allegedly lived. In town, grab a steaming hot Cornish pasty from the appropriately named Cornish Bakery and a cream tea from King Arthur's Café before sourcing dessert from the town's famous fudge shop, Roly's Fudge Pantry . If you're up for a short hike, St. Nectan's Glen is a magnificent spot just outside of town, with its own deep legends and a dramatic 60-foot waterfall at its heart.

Bakewell, Derbyshire

Anooj Vedd/Travel + Leisure

This pretty northern town with its stone houses straight out of a storybook is synonymous with the Bakewell tart, a delicious jam pudding invented here about 200 years ago. Aside from sampling the best tarts the local bakeries have to offer, visitors can check out several fantastic pubs, including The Manners and The Red Lion . It's easy to walk off the pudding and pints afterward, too, as Bakewell sits in the heart of England's spectacular Peak District National Park , stuffed with excellent hiking trails. Just save enough time to visit the iconic Chatsworth House while you're in town — it's one of the finest country estates in Europe.

Lavenham, Suffolk

RORY FULLER/TRAVEL + LEISURE

During the 15th century, Lavenham was one of the wealthiest towns in England, thanks to a roaring wool trade. But cheaper imports from Europe saw workers leave in droves, and the town lay frozen in time. Today, it looks very much as it did then: quaint medieval buildings leaning haphazardly into one another in a riot of drunken pastels and timbers. As a result, strolling down the high street feels like walking through a fairy tale — or a Hollywood movie, as Lavenham has appeared in plenty of the latter, most famously doubling as Harry Potter's birthplace in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One." Behind the higgledy-piggledy facades are several excellent eateries, but first-time visitors should make a beeline for the extraordinary Lavenham Guildhall , where you can sip tea in a remarkably well-preserved Tudor room.

Shaftesbury, Dorset

Home to Gold Hill, the steep, cobblestone street dubbed "one of the most romantic sights in England," Shaftesbury is a major charmer. The tiny Dorset town is also home to the ruins of Shaftesbury Abbey , built in 888 AD by King Alfred, the man credited with creating England. Shaftesbury is also surrounded by a wealth of incredible countryside rich in picnicking potential, including Fontmell Down , Duncliffe Wood , and Melbury Beacon — a hilltop that was part of the chain of beacons linking London to Plymouth in 1588 to warn of the approach of the Spanish Armada.

Rye, East Sussex

Mandy Haakenson/Travel + Leisure

Perched two miles from the sea at the confluence of three rivers, ancient Rye has deep maritime roots dating back to the Roman era, but its center is very much medieval, with twisting cobblestone streets and charmingly crooked houses. The most famous of these is The Mermaid Inn , established in 1156. A notorious smuggling den in the 18th century, this spot is now one of the most charming pubs in southern England. (Tip: Don't miss the superb Sunday roast dinner.)

Rye is riddled with secret passages and ancient alleyways that are a pleasure to explore, but you can gain a bird's-eye view over the warren from the climbable 12th-century bell tower of St. Mary's Church . After hiking and climbing above this picturesque destination, seek out Simon the Pieman on Lion Street for delicious scones served with strawberry jam and clotted cream.

St. Ives, Cornwall

Tucked on the rugged coast of the Celtic Sea, St. Ives used to be little more than a traditional fishing village, but this gorgeous coastal town has evolved into one of Britain's most popular seaside destinations. Its soft, sandy beaches regularly win awards, and there's also a decent surf and plenty of excellent seafood dining options. The town has even forged a reputation as a serious arts hub, with a cluster of outstanding galleries led by the seafront Tate St. Ives , which features rotating modern art exhibitions focusing on British artists.

Castle Combe, Wiltshire

Garnering the nickname of " prettiest village in England " is a tricky feat, particularly when the competition is so ferocious, but Castle Combe, a beautiful spot in the impossibly photogenic Cotswolds region, has managed it, and few would argue. Its handsome honey-hued stone houses and flower-lined lanes have graced countless postcards and magazine covers over the years, not to mention TV series like Downton Abbey and Hollywood movies such as "Stardust" and Steven Spielberg's "War Horse." If you're planning to head out on one of the many footpaths spiraling into the spectacular surrounding countryside, grab some fresh produce from the many honesty boxes placed outside local homes for a picnic. This is a town as generous and welcoming as it is picturesque.

12 Very Best Cities in England to visit

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 31, 2023

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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)

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.

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.

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.

15 of the best things to do in England

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Experience the best of England with these top things to do © SolStock / Getty Images

With its wild coastline, ancient history and cultural contributions that have left a mark around the world, England is one of the world’s most alluring destinations.

And while the famous landmarks and 24/7 buzz of London will always seduce first-time visitors , there are a ton of unique attractions outside the capital that deserve your attention.

From almost-cinematic hikes in the Lake District to the jaunty street art of Bristol, amazing adventures can be had up and down this green and pleasant land. The weather is always changeable, but England’s status as a world-class destination is never in doubt. Here are the best things to do in England.

1. Walk the magnificent medieval walls of York

Many historic cities in Europe retain their original city walls, but few are in as good condition as the 4m (13ft) stone walls surrounding the English city of York . Though the first fortifications were built by the Romans, the current walls are around 700 years old and date back to the medieval period. Stroll atop the walls, and you'll get some stunning views of this city’s soaring spires and crooked rooftops, especially the section behind the grandiose York Minster .

2. Discover the street art of Banksy’s old neighborhood in Bristol

Take a walk through the colorful streets of Bristol’s Stokes Croft neighborhood to see the city’s creative spirit in full flow. The former hometown of enigmatic artist Banksy, Stokes Croft was also his original canvas, and many of his works can still be seen amid the area’s quirky pubs, cool cafes and vintage boutiques.

From classics such as Mild Mild West (with its Molotov-cocktail toting teddy bear) to lesser-known works such as The Rose Trap on Thomas Street North, Banksy’s influence is indelible.

Local tip: Explore more of Banksy's oeuvre on a superbly detailed tour by Where The Wall .

3. Make like a druid and catch the sunrise at Stonehenge

Bizarre and mysterious, the prehistoric stone circle at Stonehenge is one of England’s most evocative sights and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – befitting a site said to date back as far as 3000 BCE. Most visitors gaze at the 50-tonne stones from behind the perimeter fence, but with enough planning, you can arrange an early-morning or evening tour of Stonehenge and gain access to the inner ring itself. The site takes on an ethereal quality as the golden morning sunlight slants between the stones. 

Planning tip: You can enter the circle for a sunrise ceremony for the summer or winter solstice for free as part of the Managed Open Access days.

4. Hit the world’s greatest museums in London

Working out how to spend your time in London when you only have a few days is an almost impossible task as there’s so much to see and do , but it would be remiss to not visit some of its many remarkable museums. Best of all, the majority can be visited free of charge .

From big-hitters such as the British Museum and Kensington greats including the Natural History Museum  and Science Museum to uniquely London-centric spaces such as Covent Garden ’s London Transport Museum , you’ll never be bored on a rainy afternoon in the English capital.

5. Cycle through the heart of England 

The Cotswolds are lush Olde England at its quaint best, and there are few better ways to explore this patchwork of chocolate-box villages than on two wheels on a warm summer’s day. Spread out over six English counties, this expanse of rolling hills features meandering roads, bucolic landscapes and hundreds of cozy country pubs where you can relax with a pint of real ale at the end of a long ride. For a deep dive into this quintessentially English corner of Britain, hire a bike and tackle the 102-mile Cotswold Way from Chipping Campden to Bath.

6. Catch a play in Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare's hometown

The famous-name theaters of London’s West End are the place to catch all the latest shows, but for a true taste of English drama, head up to Stratford-upon-Avon , the one-time home of William Shakespeare himself. Not only is this quaint riverside town a lovely place to explore, but it’s also the official home of the Royal Shakespeare Company , which stages consistently excellent interpretations of The Bard’s most well-known and not-so-well-known works.

7. Surf the waves of Cornwall's wild coastline

While it might not have the sun-kissed tropical scenes of the Gold Coast or Hawaii , Cornwall’s ragged coastline attracts thousands of surfers every summer, drawn by England’s biggest waves. Fistral Beach in Newquay is the epicenter of English surfing life, and its beach breaks produce powerful, hollow waves under a wide range of conditions. Newquay is also Cornwall’s biggest party town, so after a day of surfing, you can let your hair down in one of its many thumping pubs, clubs and bars. 

Detour:  If time and budget allow, consider exploring further with a visit to the Isles of Scilly . St Mary’s (the biggest of the 140 tiny islands) is accessible by ferry (or helicopter) on a day trip.

8. Take a sea-sprayed train ride in Devon

England was the birthplace of rail travel, and its historic rail lines provide some spectacular opportunities to see the country at its best. For a quick taste, take the Riviera Line from Exeter to Teignmouth, a journey of just over an hour that passes by some of Devon’s most beautiful coastal scenery.

The highlight is the stretch by the Regency resort town of Dawlish, where the train hugs the seafront so closely you can almost taste the spray of the waves as they roll back and forth against the shore. Afterward, settle in on the beach in Teignmouth and dip your toes in the English Channel.

9. See Nelson’s famous flagship up close in Portsmouth

England is home to some of the world’s most famous cathedrals, castles and mansions, but one of its most breathtaking artificial sites is a ship that’s been sitting in dry dock for over 100 years. HMS Victory was Lord Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar – arguably the Royal Navy’s greatest-ever maritime victory – and you can explore its enormous wooden frame at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard . The Victory first launched in 1765, and it’s amazing that this 250-year-old ship still exists.

Planning tip:  The engaging audio guide telling the story of Nelson’s final moments is highly recommended.

10. Get lost in the lanes of Brighton

Brighton is unashamedly alternative, and it’s hard not to fall in love with the place when you enter the quirky warren of roads known as the Lanes. Nearby, the North Laine district is the bohemian heart of Brighton, and its vibrant streets are packed with vegan cafes, espresso bars, chaotic pubs, record stores, bric-a-brac shops and vintage clothing boutiques. Spend an afternoon perusing the dusty shelves of Snoopers Paradise before ordering a local cask ale from the Great Eastern’s narrow and always-lively bar.

11. See a gig in Manchester, England's indie music capital

From Oasis to Joy Division and The Smiths, Manchester  has produced some of the UK’s most iconic bands, and the city's musical heritage is still very much alive today. You'll find a plethora of fabulous venues for live music dotted around the city, so be sure to catch a show when evening comes. From the sweat-soaked backrooms of the Eagle Inn to the ornate Albert Hall , you're guaranteed to find a spot to tune into your fave musical genre.

Local tip: Manchester's latest cultural center, Aviva Studios, is the home of Factory International , which opened in mid-2023 with a vision for reinvigorating the city's creative energy.

12. Hike England’s biggest mountain in the Lake District

William Wordsworth wrote many wonderful words about the Lake District , but it’s unlikely that he ever scaled Scafell Pike (unlike his sister, Dorothy). Rising to 978m (3209ft) above sea level, this is England’s highest mountain, and it offers panoramic views from its craggy summit. You can see the peaks of Yr Wyddfa (Mt Snowdon) in Wales and the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland on a clear day. The rocky Wasdale path is the most popular route to the top, and the 4.2km (2.6-mile) journey should take around three hours to complete.

Planning tip: Hikers and peak baggers should plan on sticking around for a bit – the Lake District has some of the best hikes in the UK .

13. Go for a pint in England’s most remote pub in the Yorkshire Dales

England is one of Europe’s most densely packed countries, and locals place a lot of value on unwinding with a quiet pint. Few places are better for that than the Tan Hill Inn on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park . At 1732ft (528m) above sea level, it’s the highest pub in the British Isles and has been known to be completely snowed in during winter blizzards. Still, the surrounding North Yorkshire landscape has a bleak beauty about it, and this remote spot is a perfect place to get away from it all. 

14. Eat fish and chips on the harbor at Whitby

There are few more English experiences than eating fish and chips in a seaside town. And while the northern fishing village of Whitby is more famous for its connections to Bram Stoker and Dracula , it’s also home to some of the finest and freshest fish and chips in the country.

Order a fresh haddock and chips from Quayside or the Magpie Cafe and sit back and admire Whitby’s famous harbor, which sweeps from a cluster of 18th-century fishing cottages along the East Cliff up to the town's famous ruined hilltop Abbey . Just watch out for mischievous seagulls who'll always have an eye on your food.

Planning tip:  Buying an on-the-spot membership to a heritage organization like English Heritage or the National Trust is good value if you plan to visit lots of historic sites. It includes free admission, as well as information handbooks and car parking.

15. Embrace Beatlemania in Liverpool

Yes, there’s a whole lot more to Liverpool than the Fab Four, but the city is stuffed with myriad museums, pop culture landmarks and subtle references to what was arguably the world’s greatest ever band. Start with the Beatles Story followed by a night at the legendary Cavern Club to get your Fab on. Don’t forget that some of the most unique Beatles sites are out of the city center.

Detour: Check out the real-life Penny Lane on the Magical Mystery Tour or, even better, take a tour of the basement of the Casbah Coffee Club to see where the Beatles played their very first gig in 1959.

This article was first published June 2022 and updated March 2024

Explore related stories

Apr 5, 2024 • 8 min read

From its iconic Victorian pier to its independent shops and LGBTQIA-friendly pubs and bars, here are the best things to do in the seaside city of Brighton.

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Feb 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Feb 25, 2024 • 13 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 5 min read

Nov 2, 2023 • 13 min read

Nov 1, 2023 • 15 min read

Oct 6, 2023 • 15 min read

Sep 22, 2023 • 11 min read

Aug 11, 2023 • 8 min read

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

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.

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.

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from York

Whilst it may have an interesting history and plenty of period architecture to admire, Glasgow is hip and happening. So much so that it is sometimes referred to as ‘Scotland’s city of cool!’.

A mecca for creativity, Glasgow has a strong art scene. You’ll find unique and original products sold everywhere from the city center to its cobbled lanes. You’ll also see impressive murals on walls throughout the city, depicting various figures who have played a large part in Glasgow’s culture.

There are several excellent museums, an architecturally stunning Cathedral, and a full-size sailing ship to explore. Many of Glasgow’s attractions are free to visit, making a visit here much more affordable than in many other UK cities.

There are also some beautiful green spaces throughout Glasgow to sit and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find that locals are more than happy to share stories with you of their beloved home. In fact, Time Out magazine once named Glasgow as ‘first for friendliness’. The warmth it extends to its visitors is the reason that Glasgow remains one of the UK’s most popular destinations.

Must see: Glasgow Cathedral and the adjacent Necropolis, Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery, Riverside Museum, and The Tall Ship.

Nice to see: George Square, Gallery of Modern Art, Scotland Street School Museum, Botanic Gardens, Celtic Park Stadium , the Science Museum, University of Glasgow, Hunterian Art Gallery & Museum.

How much time do you need. Glasgow is relatively compact and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. So you can see the very best of Glasgow in a day (see below for more information). But because there is so much to see and do in the city, we recommend planning 2-3 days here. If you have a day to spare, you can also make some really nice day trips to Loch Ness and see some of the Scottish Highlands.

READ ALSO: How to See the Best of Glasgow in One Day

Located in the county of Somerset in south-west England, Bath is famous for its Roman ruins. The city is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bath grew around its ancient Roman baths. Nowadays, you can still experience bathing in Britain’s only natural thermal hot springs at the modern Thermae Bath Spa.

In addition to museums and galleries, there is a great deal of beautiful architecture to enjoy in the city. From the individual honey-colored Georgian buildings to the neo-Classical style of many of its public buildings, Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK!

Bath’s iconic sights, such as the Circus and the Royal Cresent, have become world-famous thanks to TV and film. Some of Jane Austen’s works discussing city life were based on the five years she spent here. Much of the architecture is still just as she described it. A visit to Bath truly feels like taking a step back into history.

Must see: The Roman Baths, Bath Abbey (take the Tower Tour and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city), Royal Crescent park, The Circus, Pulteney Bridge.

Nice to see: River cruises , Thermae Bath Spa, the Jane Austen Centre , No. 1 Royal Crescent (museum), Fashion Museum, Royal Victoria Park, The Museum of Bath Architecture.

How much time do you need . It is possible to see all the main sights of Bath in half a day to a day. This makes Bath one of the most popular day trips from London , often in combination with Stonehenge and Windsor Castle . However, a lot of the city’s charm is to be found in the evening. So if you have the time, stay a little longer and include an overnight stay in your visit.

Belfast is Northern Ireland’s capital and largest city, but it is still relatively small compared to the other capitals. Nevertheless, there is a lot to see and do here. The close proximity of all its attractions makes it easy to see Belfast’s main sights in a short amount of time.

The city where the Titanic was built, Belfast has several excellent museums that look back over its shipbuilding past. You’ll also find museums celebrating its connection to the linen industry. And – more recently – Belfast’s time of political upheaval (known as The Troubles).

Alternatively, you can head to the lively Cathedral quarter with its lovely Victorian architecture and cobbled streets. It’s a popular place with an ever-developing pub and restaurant scene.

Belfast’s historic market gives you the opportunity to buy some authentic arts, crafts, and souvenirs whilst enjoying some stirring live music. Throughout the city, you can see some incredible street art, with hundreds of murals depicting all sorts of key moments in Belfast’s past.

Must see: Titanic Belfast , St George’s Market (every Friday/Saturday/Sunday), Belfast City Hall, Crumlin Road Gaol, Ulster Museum.

Nice to see: Stormont (the home of Northern Ireland’s Parliament), Queens University, Botanic Gardens, C.S Lewis Square, St. Anne’s Cathedral, Cave Hill Country Park (for the excellent views).

How much time do you need. We recommend planning 2 days in order to see all of Belfast’s main attractions. In addition, you can take a day tour to Giant’s Causeway , which is not to be missed when visiting here!

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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//.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

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

15 Most Charming Small Towns In England

England is known the world over for looking like a Christmas card or something from The Hobbit. And it’s not a false image: you just have to look past the large towns and cities of the country to discover it. These are England’s small towns and villages.

You’ll find them neatly tucked away, on rugged cliffs, in rolling green hills, near forests, on moorland, with beaches, by rivers, and despite the weather you’ll find warmth – even if there’s no one around there is something about the quintessential English town that is friendly and homely.

Seeing a picturesque row of cottages is like getting a cosy hug from the countryside. Steeped in sometimes ancient history, and packed with sometimes ancient pubs, here is a rundown of the most charming small towns in England.

15. Southwold

Situated within Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Southwold is a lovely English seaside town comprising village greens, pebble-clad cottages and sandy beaches. Its 190-meter (620-foot) pier (built 1900) is a fantastic example of what the heyday of English seaside entertainment looked like; unlike others, thanks to the introduction of retro-style coin machine games, the English seaside holiday of yesteryear is alive and well on Southwold Pier.

Like most English towns it’s not without history: 6 18-pound cannons line the cliff, used during a battle against the Dutch in 1672. And George Orwell lived here during his thirties, when he wrote Burmese Days.

14. Bakewell

Stone buildings straight out of a storybook populate this northern town with a name that’s known by most in association with its most famous product: Bakewell pudding, a pastry casing with a bottom layer of jam and a frangipane filling.

Aside from food, and like many in England, the town is very old, dating from Anglo-Saxon times – the Grade I listed Bakewell Parish Church was founded in 920 AD. Located in the heart of the Derbyshire Dales, the surrounding area is filled with well-trod hiking trails.

13. Berwick-upon-Tweed

The most fought-over town in European history: it changed hands 14 times from England to Scotland between 1174 and 1482. Eventually England prevailed – though interestingly the local dialect shares similarities with Scots, and its football team is the only English side to play in the Scottish League.

Nowadays Berwick-upon-Tweed is much-visited for its highly visible history: medieval town walls, Elizabethan ramparts, 13th century castle ruins, its 17th century ‘Old Bridge’, town hall, Britain’s earliest army barracks, England’s northernmost hotel, among others. Now that’s a lot of history.

The earliest recorded permanent settlement dates back to 656 when a monastery was founded by King Oswy of Northumbria. The iconic ruins of the 14th century Whitby Abbey now stand in its place. It majorly inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula, partly set here, drawing tourists and goths alike – the Whitby Goth Festival is held in the town twice-yearly.

And as you look out to sea from these gothic stones of East Cliff you can think about fellow travellers like Captain James Cook and arctic explorer William Scoresby, who once called this historic fishing port home.

Ancient Rye is all cobbled streets and tumbledown rows of houses by the sea. Originally part of the Cinque Ports Confederation, five strategic towns important for trade and military purposes in medieval times, today Rye is practically a living museum.

Rye Castle, popularly known as Ypres Tower, was built in 1249 by Henry III to protect against frequent raids by the French; even older, the Norman-era St. Mary’s Church looks over the town. Rye is also just a few minutes away from one of England’s most famous beaches, Camber Sands, a two-mile-long playground for kitesurfers and beachlovers.

10. Tintagel

This Cornish town is world renowned for being the (alleged) location of King Arthur’s stronghold: Tintagel Castle. The castle ruins are a destination in themselves, set just outside town on a craggy collection of typically Cornish cliffs; wandering around this cinematic landscape with the legend – or history? – of King Arthur in mind is simply dreamy.

Back up the hill in town is a famous fudge shop, the Old Post Office – an exquisite 14th century building, and more Cornish pasties, fish & chips shops and pubs than you would think necessary in such a tiny town.

9. Lynton and Lynmouth

It’s two-for-one here with Lynton looking down on the harbour village of Lynmouth. Set in dramatic Exmoor, nearby is the Valley of the Rocks, a twisting landscape of ancient geology, and Glen Lyn Gorge, a magical slice of nature which is like walking through a fantasy novel. The two are linked by Lynmouth Cliff Railway, a water-powered funicular opened in 1890, which is a fun way to get your fill of the rugged North Devon coastline below.

8. Shaftesbury

This Dorset town is a definite charmer. One of its streets, Gold Hill, was featured in the iconic “Boy on Bike” TV advert directed by Ridley Scott for Hovis (a brand of bread in the UK) and you can see why: the steep, cobbled street is lined with rustic cottages on a backdrop of lush English countryside.

It has been dubbed “one of the most romantic sights in England.” Adjacent to this picturesque street are the ruins of Shaftesbury Abbey, built in 888 AD by King Alfred.

7. Upper and Lower Slaughter

The name has nothing to do with killing! Slohtre is Old English for “muddy place” – though nothing is further from the truth today. These tiny twin towns are the epitome of pastoral, chocolate-box Cotswolds beauty. A walk along the River Eye that links the two is a stroll through idyllic riverside scenes, and goes past a 14th century building aptly named The Old Mill.

Narrow lanes, fresh seafood, pubs galore, Cornish pasties and cream tea all add up to make this town on the north Cornwall coast a must-visit destination. When you’re not wandering around with an ice cream or sitting on one of the town’s two beaches, you might want to check out the Tate St Ives, a comprehensive art gallery.

Art plays a huge part in St Ives, and everyone from casual visitor to art buff will take an interest in the selection of art on sale in the town’s varied art galleries, ranging from the whole interiors of old churches to rooms in centuries-old, wood-beam houses.

5. Castle Combe

The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has a lot to answer for when it comes to beautiful English towns to match. Castle Combe is one of them. Claiming to be “the prettiest English town,” the rest of the world has listened: various movies and TV series have been filmed here, including Steven Spielberg’s War Horse and Downton Abbey.

Historical as ever, the imposing 15th century St Andrew’s Church reflects the former prosperity of the Cotswolds’ textile industry. There’s even some historical five-star accommodation: the 14th century Manor House Hotel.

4. Lavenham

Medieval buildings lean higgledy-piggledy in Lavenham like something from another time. In the 15th and 16th centuries the town was famous for its wool, and one of the richest settlements in Britain because of it, but fell into decline with cheaper exports from Europe.

Now it’s like walking through a fairytale: hundreds of half-timbered buildings spell out the past, with a contemporary infusion of eateries and places to stay. You can even sip tea in the Tudor tea-room at the Lavenham Guildhall, one of the finest examples of Lavenham’s heyday.

Yes, in Devon there is a town called Beer – unfortunately it’s named after Old English word bearu, meaning grove. Nevertheless there’s a disproportionate amount of pubs in this seaside town, all serving excellent local ales as well as the local speciality of crab. Steeped in tales of smuggling, the meandering hike down Hooken Cliffs to the west of town is great for imagining yourself as a smuggler of old.

Just out of town are the 2,000-year-old Beer Quarry Caves, famous for its ‘beer stone’ – fine-textured limestone that was used in Westminster Abbey, among other places. Sitting on Beer’s pebble beach looking out to sea with an ice cream after a pub lunch is a fine example of English summer holidays.

2. Hawkshead

Carefully preserved Hawkshead was once home to William Wordsworth, who described it in his poem The Prelude. Beatrix Potter also lived here. Her former residence now open to the public – a great opportunity to feel snug inside a real English cottage.

Hawkshead is a tourist mecca not only for its whitewashed cottages, old pubs and cobbled streets, but also for its location: the Lake District. A beautiful English town famous for its lakes, fells and forests, hiking in English countryside is supremely idyllic here.

Quintessential English towns means bucolic scenes of tiny cottages in rolling green hills. That is the essence of Bibury. Arlington Row, a particularly picturesque section of protected houses in the town, features on the inside cover of all UK passports.

Strolling around Bibury and falling in love with the place is the main past-time here, a center for countryside walks and tearooms. Located in the Cotswolds, a region renowned for quaint towns and lovely countryside, it doesn’t get more charming than this quiet slice of pastoral England.

Map of Small Towns in England

Share this post:

25 Most Beautiful Castles in England

17 Best Places to Visit in England

28 Top Attractions & Things to Do in England

14 Best Cities to Visit in England

12 Best Things to do in Bath, UK

15 Best Things to Do in Oxford, England

12 Best Things to Do in Chester, England

12 Best Things to Do in York, England

10 Best Places to Visit in Wales

18 Most Beautiful Castles in Wales

Reader interactions.

October 29, 2018 at 11:36 am

I was born and raised in Fairford one of the Cotswold villages, still miss it, the area is beyond beautiful

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

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.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

How To Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

38 Best Things to Do in Belfast, Northern Ireland

15 Best London Foods and Where To Get Them

About ThePlanetD Team

Guest writers for The Planet D offer insider tips and information on destinations that they are experts in. We can't be everywhere at once, and it is important to have the highest level of travel information from local writers and experienced travelers.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Three Days In England: 10 Cities You Can Explore In Only 72 Hours

• Explore England's iconic destinations in just three days, maximizing your time through point-to-point travel and train rides.
• From the regal splendor of London to the literary legacy of Stratford-upon-Avon, immerse yourself in the culture, cuisine, and history of England's vibrant urban highlights.
• Experience renowned sights like Buckingham Palace, the Roman Baths, Oxford University, and the Beatles landmarks in Liverpool, creating an unforgettable whirlwind overview of England's top attractions.

England offers visitors a treasure trove of iconic destinations that can be seen on a fast-paced three-day itinerary. By traveling point-to-point, mainly by train, travelers can maximize their time to experience the regal splendor of London, the literary legacy of Stratford-upon-Avon, the medieval charm of York, the seaside fun of Brighton, and more.

This 12-stop self-guided tour packs in the country’s most renowned sights, from Windsor Castle and Roman Baths to Liverpool’s Beatles landmarks and punting in Cambridge. While an extended trip allows for more in-depth exploration, this itinerary provides a whirlwind overview of England’s vibrant urban highlights. With thoughtful planning, travelers can immerse themselves in the culture, cuisine, and history when exploring the best cities to visit in three days in England, exploring some of the top attractions in the UK along the way.

RELATED: 10 Oldest Historic Towns In England To Visit In 2023

London’s calling with iconic sights like the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. Afternoon tea at Harrod's or Fortnum & Mason fuels visitors before a West End musical or Shakespeare play.

Don't miss the best London museums like the British Museum's artifacts, the National Gallery's paintings, and shopping on Oxford Street. Visitors can also enjoy the spectacular views from the tallest buildings in London . As the day bids goodbye, travelers can explore spectacular spots in London to watch the sunset .

• Landmarks: Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, London Eye
• Best Time to Visit: Avoid summer crowds by visiting in spring or fall
• Top Attractions: British Museum, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey

RELATED: Discover The 10 Best London Tours That Offer Unforgettable Adventures

Known for the prestigious Oxford University, visitors can tour historic colleges like Christ Church and visit the Bodleian Library. Climbing the tower of the Church of St Mary the Virgin allows for views of the Radcliffe Camera and spires.

Meanwhile, punting tours in Oxford on the River Cherwell and strolling through the Botanic Gardens provide relaxation.

• Top Attractions: Oxford University colleges, Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera
• Things to Do: Punting on the River Cherwell, Oxford Botanic Garden

RELATED: Oxford: Discover The Most Historic University Town With These Tours

Admire the Bath’s grand Georgian architecture and tour the Roman Baths to see the green-hued spring waters. Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, and the Royal Crescent are prime for photos.

Afternoon tea at the Pump Room precedes boutique shopping. Thermae Bath Spa’s rooftop pool provides relaxation.

• Top Attractions: Roman Baths, Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge
• Best Time to Visit: Summer to enjoy the outdoor baths and parks

Stratford-upon-Avon

Spend a day in William Shakespeare's birthplace and hometown of Straford-upon-Avon , which enables visitors to tour his home and Anne Hathaway's cottage to learn about his life.

Seeing a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre brings his works alive. Falstaff's walking tours or boat rides on the River Avon provide insight into the Bard. Boutiques, cafes, and medieval buildings on Henley Street entice visitors.

• Landmarks: Shakespeare's Birthplace, Anne Hathaway's Cottage
• Top Attractions: Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Mary Arden's Farm
• Things to Do: Walking tour, punt ride on the River Avon

RELATED: 14 Ways To Spend The Perfect Day In Stratford Upon Avon

Discover the home of the iconic band The Beatles in the bustling northwest city of Liverpool. The Beatles Story Museum and landmarks like Penny Lane, Strawberry Fields, and The Cavern Club educate visitors about the Fab Four.

Albert Dock, the ferry across the Mersey, and the Liver Building captivate tourists. The Walker Art Gallery, World Museum, and Liverpool Cathedral (the largest cathedral in the UK) warrant a visit.

• Landmarks: Albert Dock, The Beatles Story, Anfield Stadium
• Top Attractions: The Cavern Club, Walker Art Gallery
• Things to Do: Ferry across the Mersey, Beatles Magical Mystery Tour

Another one of the most famous cities in England to visit is Manchester up in the north. Old Trafford, home of Manchester United, or the Etihad Stadium gives sports fans their fix. The Science and Industry Museum, National Football Museum, and Imperial War Museum North fulfill other interests.

Castlefield's canals or shopping sprees at the Manchester Arndale, immerse visitors in city life. Visitors can also experience an exciting road trip from London to Manchester with scenic stops .

• Landmarks: Old Trafford Stadium, Imperial War Museum North
• Top Attractions: Museum of Science & Industry, Manchester Art Gallery
• Things to Do: Canal boat tour, shopping at the Arndale Centre

York is among the most historic cities in the UK and is full of old-world streets, buildings, and attractions.

York Minster astounds while walking the ancient city walls, transports visitors to the past. Climbing 275 steps of Clifford's Tower reveals panoramic views. Learning about Viking history at Jorvik Viking Centre precedes walking the Shambles' narrow medieval streets.

• Top Attractions: York Minster, City Walls, The Shambles
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for festivals and beer gardens
• Things to Do: Walking ghost tour, Jorvik Viking Centre

Cambridge is one of the most beautiful cities in England to visit and is the home of the prestigious Cambridge University.

Punting along the River Cam and touring colleges like King's College Chapel is a must. The Wren Library, Cambridge University Botanic Gardens, and the Fitzwilliam Museum educate visitors. Afternoon tea at Fitzbillies and browsing boutiques on Rose Crescent provides whimsy.

• Landmarks: King's College, Mathematical Bridge
• Top Attractions: Wren Library, Fitzwilliam Museum
• Things to Do : Punting on the River Cam, Walk along The Backs

Brighton is one of the top coastal destinations in the UK, located in the south of the country. It's an ideal family-friendly spot full of wide beaches and kid-friendly attractions and activities.

Riding Brighton Pier's amusement rides and playing beach games along the lively promenade entertain visitors. Boutique shopping in the Lanes and dining in the trendy North Laine area satiates one's urban cravings. Meanwhile, The Royal Pavilion’s exotic architecture astounds while the Sea Life Centre educates about marine life.

• Landmarks: Royal Pavilion, Brighton Pier, Brighton Beach
• Things to Do: Beach volleyball, Sea Life Centre
• Top Attractions: The Lanes, North Laine

Visiting Windsor Castle and marveling at its staterooms and St George's Chapel gives insight into the royal residence of the British royal family. Watching the Changing of the Guard and strolling the Long Walk creates memories.

Outside the castle walls, Legoland Windsor and Eton College deserve exploration for a well-rounded experience.

• Landmarks: Windsor Castle, Eton College
• Best Time to Visit: April-July when Queen in residence
• Top Attractions: State Apartments, St George's

• United Kingdom
• Beautiful Towns And Villages You...

10 Beautiful Towns and Villages You Must Visit in Britain

Senior Commercial Content Editor

Away from the main tourist trails, Britain’s picturesque towns and villages offer a unique insight into its astonishing history, culture and landscapes.

Britain’s most charming spots are within easy reach of major cities, but provide an escape from the hustle and bustle. Many remain relatively untouched, and as such offer up stories of the past in their perfectly preserved castles, ancient monuments and dramatic ruins. Here are some of the most stunning hidden gems in Britain.

Broadway, Worcestershire

Not too far from Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon , Broadway is the ultimate chocolate-box Cotswolds village, packed with traditional pubs and tearooms. King Charles I fought the English Civil War from here – you can still sleep in his room in the Lygon Arms – while Oliver Cromwell later stayed at the hotel before the Battle of Worcester. Climb Broadway Tower to try and glimpse 16 counties from the top.

Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Upmarket spa town Harrogate has attracted visitors since Georgian times, when well-heeled types flocked to try its health-giving natural mineral water. Now its chic boutiques, Turkish baths, pristine parkland and the famous Bettys tearoom make it a great base from which to explore the hidden waterfalls, windswept hills and ancient castles of the Yorkshire Dales.

Woodbridge, Suffolk

Nine miles from bustling Ipswich, picture-perfect Woodbridge is a paradise for devoted shoppers and foodies thanks to its independent boutiques, thriving markets and charming riverside cafés. Try a cruise down the River Deben (watch for passing seals), step back in time at the Tide Mill Living Museum or visit the extraordinary Anglo-Saxon burial site at Sutton Hoo.

Hambledon, Hampshire

Cricket fans, wine lovers and history buffs should make a beeline for Hambledon, home to both the UK’s oldest commercial vineyard and one of the world’s oldest cricket clubs. Easily reached from Portsmouth, the idyllic countryside village in the heart of the South Downs dates back 3,000 years and still features Roman remains, a Saxon church and Norman buildings.

Inveraray, Argyll

Renowned for its handsome Georgian streets, world-class seafood and romantic loch-side views, Inveraray is the gateway to the Highlands near Argyll on the shores of Loch Fyne. Tour the magnificent Inveraray Castle, the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, then follow the steep trail up Dun na Cuaiche watchtower for breathtaking views back over the town and the loch beyond.

Wycoller, Lancashire

With its rushing river, stone bridges and car-free streets, Wycoller is a tranquil hamlet where it is believed people have settled since the Stone Age. One 1,000-year old bridge is even officially listed as an Ancient Monument. Often visited by the Brontës, Wycoller Hall – now an eerie ruin – is considered to have been the inspiration for the manor house in Jane Eyre.

Beddgelert, Snowdonia

Outdoor types heading to the towering mountains of Snowdonia should not miss pretty Beddgelert, a tiny stone village dating back to the 12th century. Visit the Victorian copper mine and superb ice-cream parlour, then walk the easy riverside path to the rumoured grave of Gelert, the faithful dog of medieval Welsh prince Llywelyn the Great.

Melrose, Scottish Borders

Surrounded by ruggedly beautiful hills, Melrose is famous for its walled gardens, Abbotsford – the art-filled home of writer Sir Walter Scott – and its imposing Gothic abbey ruins where Scottish national hero Robert the Bruce’s heart is buried. Once the site of a Roman fort called Trimontium, this tiny town later became the birthplace of rugby sevens when a local butcher invented the game in 1883.

Lacock, Wiltshire

Travel back in time in this unspoilt Wiltshire village, which is owned by the National Trust. The village’s narrow streets and traditional stone cottages look exactly as they would have 200 years ago when the town thrived in the wool trade, while the abbey dates back to the 13th century. Eagle-eyed Harry Potter and Downton Abbey fans may also recognise it as a filming location.

Higher Bockhampton, Dorset

Literary lovers will be enchanted by this blissful rural hamlet in Dorset where author Thomas Hardy was born and raised. Visit the thatched cottage where Hardy lived then wander through the ancient Thorncombe Woods that inspired several of his novels. Pass an original Roman road, wild heathlands and the serene Rushy Pond, where you might spot resident Dartmoor ponies grazing.

Ready to explore your passions and discover the unexpected? Find your Great Britain at visitbritain.com . This branded content article was published as part of a commercial campaign that has now ended.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

A Guide to English Proverbs and What They Mean

Food & Drink

Find your inner glow with the bright side spritz, culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1001285839
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

More on England

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

8 Friendliest Towns To Visit In England

• Destinations
• United Kingdom

I do, of course, consider my home country as a very friendly one, but even I have to admit there are some places in the UK that are just that little bit more friendly than others. When it comes to the friendliest places, the small, out-of-the-way, lesser-visited, towns are certainly up there. These are the kinds of places where everyone you encounter on the street says hello, where the staff in stores, cafes, restaurants, and bars, go out of their way to make you feel welcome. These are the places you want to go back to again and again. From the north to the south, here’s my pick of the friendliest towns to visit in England . 

1. Boston, Lincolnshire 

This modest Lincolnshire town was once a giant amongst other towns, a very important and a very wealthy town. Although today it’s a quiet market town with a close community living there, its position close to the sea made it a strategic port town and an ideal place for trade and the movement of people to and from Europe. It’s hard to imagine its former glory now, but nip into the Guildhall and you’ll be regaled with tales of the history of the town. Now a museum and a venue for private functions, this incredible building was erected in 1390 and housed the town’s courts. The small cells beneath the courtroom are still accessible today. The museum has a fascinating collection and the staff will happily talk to you about the artifacts and show you around the building, complete with sloping floors and wonky walls! 

2. Keswick, Lake District 

This pretty market town is located in the north of the Lake District, amid some stunning and dramatic scenery. The old market still arrives every Saturday and Thursday in the market square, with a note that on days of “high winds” it will be absent. This tells you a lot about the kind of weather you can expect in Keswick, but the people here are exceptionally friendly, and when you pop into the cafes and small shops that line the high street, you’ll always get a welcome. This is a popular base for walkers and those wanting to attempt the nearby peaks, but it’s also a sleepy town with a settled community at its heart. It’s also a great place to stay and explore the rest of the area from. 

Pro Tip 

Take a boat out on Derwentwater or enjoy watching some Theatre by the Lake . This is one of the most incredible locations for outdoor theatre and the setting really adds an extra layer to the storytelling. The lake is a place of calm and quiet, so whether you‘re boating or watching a play, it’s a great way to relax. 

3. Tewksbury, Cotswolds 

Set in the beautiful Cotswolds, Tewkesbury is a medieval market town with Tudor buildings and an air of another time and another place. The Festival of Lights event takes place at Tewkesbury Abbey and celebrates the history of the town, which is everywhere you look. Tewkesbury is famous for its medieval heritage and Tudor architecture, along with being one of the most flooded towns in the UK, meaning it’s set amongst a fair amount of water. The town’s location, at the meeting point of the River Avon and the River Severn, is both what makes this so beautiful as a town and also what makes it most prone to flooding. More randomly, it was also voted to have the prettiest roundabout in the UK!

Considering the waterways and the flood risk here, a river cruise is perhaps the perfect way to enjoy this old town. English Holiday Cruises , based in nearby Gloucester Docks, operate a historic river cruise that cruises down the river and stops off in Tewkesbury for a number of tours, including the infamous Tewkesbury Abbey.

4. Looe, Cornwall

Looe is one of the most picturesque seaside towns you’ll find anywhere in the world, and on a good day of sunshine and pure blue skies, it wouldn’t look out of place in the Mediterranean. There’s a soft sandy beach here and clear waters, making it popular with tourists. Looe gets busy in the summer and keeps getting more and more popular year on year, but it still manages to retain its small-town charm. There are various events and festivals throughout the year, including a music festival, but visit in spring and you’ll find a quieter town that’s just waking from the winter. It makes a lovely base to explore the rest of Cornwall from, but equally, there’s enough to do here to keep visitors happy without moving much at all.

This is a working fishing port, so you can watch the fishermen bringing in their catch, see it being sold, and book a table at one of the town’s seafood restaurants to enjoy a dish of succulent fresh fish. Pick up fish and chips for lunch by the sea and you’ll have an equally amazing meal of freshly caught fish.

5. Lyme Regis, Dorset

Lyme Regis is a very special town. Situated on the “Jurassic Coast,” it’s popular with fossil hunters, and in the height of summer, the familiar sound of tools hitting rocks down on the pebble beach literally fills the air. But there’s a lot more to Lyme Regis than dinosaur fossils. I’ve stayed in this seaside town many times and the sense of community while welcoming visitors with open arms is unusual and fresh. On one of my stays, a local invited me to join their annual festival of light, the Candles on the Cobb, which involves locals walking down to the Cobb, Lyme Regis’s harbor, and placing candles all along the stone walkway. I felt so welcomed and included in this intimate local festival, it’s something I’ll never forget. On another visit, I witnessed the Easter parade, along with other tourists and locals all watching together.

6. Knaresborough, Yorkshire

The North Yorkshire town of Knaresborough feels ancient and kind of quirky, but its inhabitants are extremely friendly, perhaps because they are so happy to live here. The town itself is quaint, with a few good restaurants and some unusual little shops, mostly arts and crafts stores and all independents. The market is held every Wednesday and features produce from local farmers and makers. When it comes to eating out, it’s mostly pubs, tea rooms, and small intimate restaurants, and you’ll always find locals welcoming you. Don’t miss a visit to Mother Shipton’s Cave, an old cave supposedly once the home of Mother Shipton, a local resident, recluse, and soothsayer. This is England’s oldest visitor attraction, opening to the public in 1630!

I’d highly recommend a walk in nearby Nidd Gorge if you like hiking. You can go as far as you want and take it at your own pace, and it’s a beautiful walk through lush woods and fields by the lovely rumbling River Nidd, even if you don’t go very far. Take a picnic and enjoy the serenity; there’s plenty of open space and fresh country air.

7. Newmarket, Suffolk

The quaint town of Newmarket in Suffolk has a close-knit community and is the home of British horseracing. Located just a short distance from London, it’s the perfect weekend getaway from the city. Relax and unwind in the heart of Suffolk at Bedford Lodge Hotel. The four red star hotel is nestled in three acres of manicured gardens in Newmarket, the ancestral home of British horseracing. Offering luxury throughout, the hotel is home to an award-winning restaurant that includes a traditional bar menu, a la carte, and scrumptious afternoon teas!

One of the finest luxury spas in Suffolk, The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel has some of the best facilities and treatments available across East Anglia. Recognized by the Good Spa Guide with their highest “5 Bubble” rating for those looking for relaxation and a tranquil sanctuary after a day exploring the local area. This will make you feel right at home and give you a little insight into just why Newmarket locals are so happy.

8. Faversham, Kent 

A very friendly town to visit is Faversham , the oldest market town in Kent and steeped in history. It even has the oldest brewery in England, Shepheard Neame Brewery. Community is important in this town, and at the heart of it is Macknade. Macknade creates spaces and experiences that bring communities together around a shared love of food & drink. Encompassing retail, hospitality, events, food service, and farming, Macknade has been synonymous with quality and community since 1847. With strong roots in the garden of England and the island of Ischia in Italy, Macknade is on a mission to bring producers, suppliers, and consumers closer together in true community spirit. You can explore one of Macknade’s Kentish Food Halls or enjoy the Macknade experience from the comfort of home, with hampers & gifts delivered direct to your door. The friendliness of Faversham comes through in the produce, and also in their drive to build better community links and keep the friendliness alive.

Travel writer, author, and playwright, Samantha loves historic buildings, quirky hotels, woodland walks and literary trails, specializing in food and drink, luxury travel, retreats, spas, and anything arts based. Samantha is based in Yorkshire, the UK, where she lives with her artist partner. Learn more on her website .

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best cities in the UK: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

By Condé Nast Traveller

The survey for the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards is open, vote now for your favourite places, hotels, airports, cruise lines, travel fixers and more.

What's your favourite city in the UK? In 2023, we asked our readers just that – and your responses rank the top 10 of the UK's 51 cities in some surprising ways. There are cities from all four devolved nations represented in this list, with a new city in the top spot and two new additions of Brighton and Dundee.

Our annual Reader's Choice Awards are the biggest and most influential in the business, shining a light on the best places around the world. In collaboration with our sister title in the USA, we can now reveal the urban destinations that scored the highest marks when it comes to nightlife, restaurants and friendliness. For more inspiration, see our pick of the best places to visit in the UK .

These are the best cities in the UK, according to the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards . The scores below are percentages representing overall average levels of satisfaction.

10. Brighton. Score 80.22

This bohemian beach city has it all: a wealth of enticing restaurants , one of the UK's best LGBTQ+ scenes and – most importantly for any seaside destination – truly excellent fish and chips .

Where to stay: Bed down in elegant Regency Square in rooms filled with beautiful artworks at Artist Residence . Or opt for this sweet Airbnb in the historic Lanes . See more hotels in Brighton .

9. Dundee. Score 81.11

With its large-scale waterfront regeneration, including the architecturally impressive V&A Museum, Dundee is a thriving cultural hotspot.

Where to stay: Set in a former textile mill, Hotel Indigo has industrial interiors, a buzzy bar and is well located for exploring.

8. Belfast. Score 83.07

The Northern Irish capital is famous for being birthplace to the RMS Titanic – but also for its vibrant culture and art scene and welcoming locals, set against a backdrop of handsome cobbled streets and dapper Edwardian buildings. Check out our local's guide to Belfast to find out more.

Where to stay: At The Harrison , set in Victorian merchants' residences, given a colourful, light-hearted makeover. The hotel is close to some of the city's best cultural highlights, too. For more ideas, read our guide to the best hotels in Belfast .

7. Glasgow. Score 83.27

This buzzy Scottish city has made the list for the sixth year in a row. Read our feature on the best things to do in Glasgow to find out why, or tap into the Glaswegian food scene .

Where to stay: See our round-up of the best Airbnbs in Glasgow from which to base yourself – including this handsome studio in a classic townhouse that sleeps two.

6. Liverpool. Score 83.29

Liverpool comes in sixth place on our list this year, up a spot from last year. The once-gritty city is now a capital of cool, where vintage shops, art galleries and art venues inject a creative atmosphere into the streets – see our guide to things to do in Liverpool for ideas on how to spend a visit here.

Where to stay:

Book a room at Titanic Hotel Liverpool , converted from a soaring, cavernous former warehouse.

5. Cambridge. Score 84.16

History is woven into the medieval lanes and cloistered colleges of this free-wheeling university town. But now a perky batch of new arrivals are adding cocktail and coffee culture to the equation. Before your visit, see our pick of the best things to do in Cambridge .

Where to stay: The smartest choice in town is The University Arms , a coaching inn that’s been artfully reimagined.

4. Manchester. Score 85.36

Vibrant Manchester is packed with excellent chefs, music and culture. Grand libraries, street art, record shops and galleries are among the best things to do in the city , while excellent restaurants in Manchester range from Korean cooking to donut shops via Spanish, Italian, Vietnamese and Indian cuisine. There's a thriving LGBTQ+ scene in Manchester , too.

Where to stay: Whitworth Locke comprises apartments painted in dreamy pastels in an old cotton mill. See more of the best hotels in Manchester .

3. Edinburgh. Score 86.38

Edinburgh, famed for its festival and varied architecture, has come third in our list of the best cities in the UK. For first-time visitors, see our Edinburgh travel guide and the best things to do in the Scottish capital . In the last few years the city has developed into a foodie hotspot – these are the best restaurants in Edinburgh .

Where to stay: Gleneagles Townhouse is the most exciting newcomer on the scene. For a private stay, this loft Airbnb overlooks the city's most famous street. For more options, see our pick of the best Edinburgh hotels and the best Airbnbs in Edinburgh .

CNT Editors

Olivia Morelli , CN Traveller

2. London. Score 86.44

London is not just a major city but a thriving hub of 32 boroughs, each with their own, distinct character, from hip Dalston to colourful Notting Hill and buzzing Soho . Stay up to date with the latest happenings via our weekly roundup of the best  things to do in London this weekend , as well as our list of the best restaurants in London  (even better, sign up to our weekly newsletter on London's hottest restaurants right now too).

Where to stay: For something smart and classic, you can't get much better than Claridge's , in splashy Mayfair . For a cooler, more casual stay, look further East to One Hundred Shoreditch , which boasts a gorgeous rooftop bar. For more, see our edit of the best London hotels .

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 .

Where to stay: Take over an Airbnb in the city to live like a local and explore the Welsh capital at your own pace.

• Travel Journal
• Travel Advice
• Travel Inspiration
• Photo Diary
• Photography Tips
• Photography Inspiration
• Destinations
• Home Inspiration
• Blogging Tips
• Work With Us

17 Beautiful Towns In The UK To Visit

Okay, just putting it out there, us Brits have some great totally epic places to visit; with some of the most beautiful towns in the UK dotted all across the country. 

You see, what’s best about the UK is that we have a whole heap of diverse little towns and pretty villages spread across the country; each with their own charm.

I mean, where else can you explore bits of Scotland , England , Wales and Northern Ireland on one epic trip.

With any trip to the UK, I always say it best to explore the big-hitting places such as; London , Edinburgh or York . Then, afterwards, take a trip to some of the more regional and totally beautiful towns in the UK, too.

Take a look at these beautiful towns in the UK to visit this year. Have the best trip. 

1.) Portmeirion

I know I bang on about Portmeirion lots, but honestly, it’s a really special place.

Perched on the Welsh coastline, this gorgeous Italian-esque place is easily one of the most beautiful towns in the UK.

I promise you’ll literally feel like you’ve found a slice of Italy nestled within the hills of Wales.

It really is a special place.

Visiting Wales? Check out the top places to see

Resting within the beautiful Cotswolds , Bibury is a lovely little town that’s possibly home to (arguably) the most quaint street in the UK, Arlington Row .

Think, crooked little cottages, smoking chimneys and cosy little pubs.

Pop over to the nearby town of Cirencester for a tasty bite at The Falcon. The prices are pretty good and the food is one of the best in the region.

Read more: How to visit Bibury, Cotswold

3.) Aberaeron

Aberaeron is one little town that sits on the ancient West Wales coastline.

This historic, Welsh, fishing town is a great little spot and sees all the colourful seaside houses, gorge on some good-old fish and chips or head to the award-winning Harbourmaster.

They serve some of the tastiest locally-sourced food in West Wales .

It really is one of the beautiful towns in the UK to explore. Just make sure to explore some of that gorgeous Cambrian coastline, too. 

Read more: Best places in Wales to visit

4.) Applecross

Applecross is a tiny little place that is so gorgeous. We spent a whole day exploring the area and I just know you’ll love it.

The best thing about this Scottish Highlands fishing town is it’s great food and amazing views, especially on the drive where you’ll get to see Bealach na Ba Viewpoint and some of the prettiest, white-sandy beaches in Scotland.

Read more on visiting Applecross

5.) Knaresborough

Not too far from Harrogate is the gorgeous Yorkshire town of Knaresborough.

Every Wednesday, the town is crammed with lots of little stalls and vendors that sell the tastiest local treats.

Don’t forget to visit Knaresborough Castle, too. It really is one of the beautiful towns in the UK to explore when in the north of England .

Read more: Best places in the north of England

Situated in Wiltshire , Lacock is a village that’s a total throwback to times gone by.

Make sure to visit Lacock Abbey, pop into St Cyriac’s Church and shop for antiques in one of the many cute stores.

Best of all, stop at one of the tea rooms for some freshly baked scones, lashings of butter, jam and clotted cream. They’re so dreamy and these alone make it one of the most beautiful towns in the UK for an old-English town. 

Read more on visiting Lacock

7.) Cullen Bay

On the banks of Moray Firth, Cullen is a sleepy little place with a stunning beach. Findlater Castle is one highlight to see when you’re here.

Make sure to try Cullen Skink (a potato and salmon soup). It’s delicious.

Read more: Best day trips in England

8.) Robin Hood’s Bay

Possibly one of the prettiest little villages in all of Yorkshire, Robin Hood’s Bay is an old, smugglers town where time seems to have stood still.

Wander through the tiny cobbled streets, stop off at the Old Post Office for some grub and learn more about the tunnels that are hidden under the villages.

The townsfolk used to smuggle in all their brandy, whisky and contraband through these.

Read more: Visiting Robin Hood’s Bay, here

9.) Shaftesbury

Nestled within the Dorset countryside, Shaftesbury is s tannin place to visit.

About 30 Km (22 miles) from Salisbury, this market-town is perfect for a day trip in England to see one of the most beautiful towns in the UK. 

Make sure to visit the Gold Hill Museum, go up to Castle Hill and head for food at The Salt Cellar.

They serve some proper meaty pies and homemade soups. Perfect for a chilly day.

10.) Malton

Another Yorkshire gem is the market town of Malton .

If you’ve ever been to Yorkshire, you’ll know there’s a real emphasis on good, local food… and we’re not just talking pork pies of Yorkshire puds.

Over the last 10 years, or so, Malton has become a proper foody capital of Yorkshire.

After you arrive, make sure to wander the many market stalls and local traders that have everything from homemade gelato, pastries, micro-breweries and cakes galore.

It’s only about 30 minutes from the city of York and a must-visit if you’re a total foodie.

Read more on visiting Malton

11.) Portree Isle of Skye

Technically, the largest of the towns on the Isle of Skye – this Scottish gem is a lovely find. It’s the perfect place to base yourself for a bigger exploration of Skye.

Make sure you see the Old Man of Storr, the stunning beauty of Quaraing and Kilt Rock – all of which are located on the island.

For some tasty Scottish grub, head over to Sea Breezes who serve hand-picked scallops right from the shore.

Read more: Best things to do on the Isle of Skye

Imagine such a small town having such a grand castle, possibly one of the Grandest castles in Wales .

Well, Conwy has just that. Make sure to head inside Conwy Castle for a little (or big) slice of history, visit Plas Mawr and gorge on the best brunch at Amelies Restaurant.

It’s one of the beautiful towns in the UK, especially for its history.

Read more: Best castles in Wales

13.) Hathersage

Deep within the Peak District is the gorgeous little village of Hathersage. Around a 25 minute drive from Sheffield, it’s a great little spot to see.

Make sure to hop over to the nearby Stanage Edge, see Little John’s Grave and grab a local brew at The Scotsman’s Pack Bar.

14.) Brixham

A little gem of a village, Brixham is becoming even more popular in recent years. 

Head for a stroll around the historic harbour, on the English Rivera,   pop over to Berry Head and drink up at The Lusty Wench who sources seafood right from the harbour.

15.) Mevagissey

The Cornish beauty of Mevagissey was once a thriving fishing village. Nowadays, fishing still happens, just on a smaller scale.   The town itself has a huge seafaring history and they still make smaller boats in the town today.

Pop on the Fowey to Mevagissey Ferry, too. You might even spot the local pods of dolphins. It’s one of the beautiful towns in the UK you cant miss when in the region.

Read more: Best things to do in Cornwall

16.) Rathlin Island

Rathlin Island is one of Northern Ireland’s gorgeous places to visit. It’s around 5-6 miles off the coastline of Ireland and a stunning spot to visit.

Make sure to visit between April-July, when the puffins come here. The ferry runs from Ballycastle and is perfect on a summers day.

Read more: Best things to see in Northern Ireland

17.) Glenarm Village

Perched in County Antrim, Glenarm is a lovely spot to visit in Northern Ireland .

You’ve got to head into Glenarm Castle which dates back centuries. Also, make sure to wander the hiking and walking routes that surround the area. You’ll love it.

It’s one of the most beautiful towns in the UK to explore.

12 Best Day Trips In England

Check Out The Very Best Of Great Britain!

Pop Over To Our YouTube Channel For Travel Videos!

Puppy Defender. Foodie. Chocolate Fiend and Custard Lover. Dip, Cover or Wrap anything in sugar and I'm Yours!

A Weekend In New Orleans: Weddings, Jazz And Mothers

7 Ways To Become A Better Version Of Yourself

You may also like.

7 Magical Photos That Will Make You Want To Visit The Black Forest In Germany

15 Best Free Things To Do In Barcelona

Exploring Gastown And Granville Island In Vancouver, Canada

Looking for something, fellow connected travellers.

• 558k Facebook
• 0 Pinterest
• 1,202,450 TikTok
• 340,142 Instagram
• 23,800 X (Twitter)
• 33,252 Email Subscribers

Adventure Awaits!

Have You Seen These Yet?

Truffle-Hunting, Chateaus And Wine-Tasting In The Dordogne Valley, France

10 Best Places In Bolivia To Visit

Photography Hack: The Easiest Camera To Use For Professional Photos

How To See The Most Beautiful Ice Castle In Alberta, Canada

Visiting The Beautiful Tuscan Town Of San Miniato, Italy

• Privacy Policy

Email address:

• Last Minute
• TERMS OF USE
• PRIVACY POLICY

These are the most dangerous roads in the US

Islands of India you probably haven't heard of

History's most impressive sea forts

The most treacherous seas and oceans in the world

These are the coldest countries in the world

How many countries can you visit in one day?

© Shutterstock

0 / 30 Fotos

Castle Combe in Wiltshire is repeatedly voted one of the best towns in the UK for both its looks and community. It is located in the Cotswolds and is known for its signature sandy brickwork and a working medieval clock.

1 / 30 Fotos

Painswick in Gloucestershire is a true fairy-tale town with a stunning graveyard and gardens. Here are the Roccoco gardens. The town used to produce wool, and so in many of the buildings you can see doors specially made for transport donkeys.

2 / 30 Fotos

Rye in East Sussex is a great little town with beautiful 15th-century buildings with special dark wood framing. On a quaint weekend away, you can go exploring its adorable alleyways and go shopping in its well-known vintage shops.

3 / 30 Fotos

Windsor in Berkshire is the home of Windsor Castle, the largest occupied castle in the world. You probably recognize it from Harry and Meghan's wedding photograph. Aside from the castle, there is a lot to see in this town, not least some beautiful gardens. You can also visit the Ascot racecourse nearby.

4 / 30 Fotos

This bizarre little town on the coast of Wales will make you feel like you're on the Amalfi coast. The buildings are of exceptional beauty and the views are outstanding.

5 / 30 Fotos

Clovelly in Devon is a very special place to visit. It is extremely serene because no cars are allowed in the town. You can walk along the medieval port and also hike to the highest point on the hill for a spectacular view.

6 / 30 Fotos

You may think this is in the Bahamas, but it's actually St. Ives in Cornwall. This old fishing village is one of the best seaside towns in Britain owing to its wonderful shops and luxurious beaches.

7 / 30 Fotos

One of the best reasons to visit Warwick in Warwickshire is to see Warwick Castle. It is a magical place where there are lots of exciting exhibitions and interactive activities. You can also visit the Lord Leycester Hospital to learn about the area's history.

8 / 30 Fotos

Lyndhurst in Hampshire is burrowed right inside the beautiful New Forest. It is the best town to stay in if you would like to stay near nature, but not on a camping site. The town offers delicious pastry shops, cute inns, and fashionable boutiques.

9 / 30 Fotos

Far up north in Scotland lies the Isle of Skye. It is situated in the Scottish Highlands and has some of the best beaches Scotland can offer. It may not be very sunny, but the incredible views make up for this.

10 / 30 Fotos

Henley in Oxfordshire is a wonderful town based on the River Thames . Here you can see one of the best-ranked museums in the world, the River & Rowing Museum. There is also a lovely walk called the Thames Path National Trail that will take you through some beautiful spots.

11 / 30 Fotos

This Gloucestershire town is as quaint as it gets. It is built around the River Windrush and is even called the "Venice of the Costwolds." You can visit the amazing Motoring Museum as well as navigating the Dragonfly Maze.

12 / 30 Fotos

These ominous-looking stones are called Avebury's henge. The stone circles surround part of this Wiltshire village. making it a very mystical place. It is a good quick stop on the way to Salisbury.

13 / 30 Fotos

John Constable, one of the best landscape artists in history, was inspired by this gorgeous town. Dedham in Essex is the quintessential countryside town. It has very unique water meadows and stunning Georgian-fronted houses.

14 / 30 Fotos

Aberaeron is a historic Welsh fishing town where you will find charming multicolored houses and great sea views. It's a perfect place to get some high-quality fish and chips with mushy peas.

15 / 30 Fotos

Alfriston in East Sussex is located in the gorgeous South Downs National Park. It's very near the coastline, where you can see the chalky white cliffs of the Seven Sisters.

16 / 30 Fotos

This lush seaside town is known for its very colorful buildings and sweeping seascape. All of the seafood is fresh off the boat, so be sure to settle down for a delicious fish dinner when you visit Whitstable, Kent.

17 / 30 Fotos

The Cotswolds always delivers when it comes to charming towns. All of the buildings are from the Georgian era–some have tiled roofs and some are thatched. There are some great tea rooms in Burford, Oxfordshire for a delicious afternoon scone.

18 / 30 Fotos

Bilbury in Gloucestershire is another town known for its quaintness. When you are there, be sure to visit Arlington Row, one of the sweetest streets around. The town is also near Cirencester and so it makes a good pit stop on your way.

19 / 30 Fotos

Cullen Bay is a quiet place to relax if you have been out exploring around Scotland. It has great views, is very hospitable, and even has its own special soup–it's called Cullen Skink and is made from potatoes and salmon.

20 / 30 Fotos

Near Harrogate lies the town of Knaresborough, Yorkshire. It's a gorgeous market town where you can still to this day pick up little souvenirs and treats at the weekly Wednesday market. It also has a brilliant castle that you can't miss.

21 / 30 Fotos

If you really want to discover old England, then Lacock, Wiltshire is the town for you. You will find traditional bakeries, wood-paneled pubs, and endearing cobbled streets in this beautiful place.

22 / 30 Fotos

As the name would suggest, Robin Hood's Bay in Whitby is where smugglers used to come in from the sea. There are tunnels going underneath the town where the thieves used to transport brandy, whisky, and other contraband. It has a fantastic history and a very charming appearance to boot.

23 / 30 Fotos

This little town lies in the beautiful area of Dorset. It is a great place for a day trip with sights to see such as the Gold Hill Museum. They serve incredible pies and soups at The Salt Cellar.

24 / 30 Fotos

As you can see in the image, this town is exceptionally grand. The whole place is jam-packed with history and has some wonderful places to chow down.

25 / 30 Fotos

Malton is the food capital of Yorkshire. Here you will find delicious sweet bites, as well as the traditional pies and pasties. It has an impressive food market and is a wonderful place for a walk around.

26 / 30 Fotos

If you are going around the Peak District in the UK, then you must stop at the adorable town of Hathersage, Derbyshire. Surrounding it are beautiful hiking trails and some great local pubs.

27 / 30 Fotos

Brixham in Devon is situated in what is now called the "English Riviera." It offers wonderful insight into what a true fishing town is like, as well as providing lovely hotels and restaurants.

28 / 30 Fotos

Portree is one of the largest towns on the Isle of Skye and so makes a perfect base if you are going to explore the island further. It is a great town with wonderful fresh seafood and good views.

Sources: (PlanetWare) (Hand Luggage Only)

See also: Britain historic religious ruins

29 / 30 Fotos

Shutterstock

The most enticing British towns you have to visit

Your next albion adventure.

27/03/24 | StarsInsider

TRAVEL Britain

W hen you think of the UK, perhaps the words "wonderful holiday" do not spring to mind. However, the countryside and history of the UK are vastly underrated. There are countless numbers of charming towns that will transport you back to times gone by. There is such a wealth of activities to do, from trekking up tall mountain peaks to rowing in gently ebbing rivers.

On your exploration of the United Kingdom, it is important to find the right towns to stay in to make your trip as perfect as can be. Here are the towns that you won't be able to resist being charmed by. From Portmerion to Cullen Bay, click through to discover more.

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU

The best hiking trails in the USA

Visit these famous landmarks before they disappear

Missing flight MH370: what do we know 10 years on?

Europe bound: an American's handbook for living the dream abroad

Would you visit these nuclear testing sites?

Essential airplane facts you probably didn't know

The most impressive presidential burial sites

Quirky American city and town slogans

30 things to do in the US at least once in your life

The countries with the largest forests on earth

30 unforgettable weekend getaways in the USA

30 islands ranked by their highest point

These historic buildings were demolished... But why?

Countries where you have to pay to be a tourist

The best bike trails in each US state

National Geographic’s top 30 travel destinations in 2024

The most scenic roads in the US

Why are geoparks so significant?

Europe's best beaches

Google’s top travel destinations in 2024 for Americans

The least visited countries in the world

The history of road travel via motorways, highways, and freeways

Discover the highest natural elevations in each US state

Sustainable travel: tips and tricks for the eco-conscious explorer

Why it's taken over 140 years and counting to build Spain's biggest church

American cities that changed their names

The most expensive neighborhood in every state

The world's most beautiful streets

30 things to do in Europe at least once in your life

The best (and worst) airports in the world in 2024

CELEBRITY Relationships

These celebrities have dated regular people

LIFESTYLE Throwback

Which hairstyle was in fashion the year you were born?

LIFESTYLE Catholicism

Slaves who became Catholic saints

LIFESTYLE Home remedies

Can spearmint tea clear acne?

LIFESTYLE Putin

After 50 years, Lenin's body can still be seen in Moscow

FOOD Fine dining

The best restaurants in the world in 2024

LIFESTYLE Emotions

How to be more emotionally available in your relationships

TRAVEL Nations

LIFESTYLE History

The best (and worst) vice presidents in US history

LIFESTYLE Astrology chart

Were you born on the cusp?

© 2024 Stars Insider. All rights reserved..

Don’t miss out...

on the latest TV shows, movies, music, and exclusive content from the entertainment industry!

Charming Cotswold Cottages and Other Reasons to Visit England

Have you ever been to England? If you answered yes, hopefully you were able to explore the southwestern countryside that features charming Cotswold cottages. Much to my surprise, I was asked to go to England in July to attended a waterlily symposium. Yes, there is such a thing! Many of you know my day job involves working as a marketing communications manager for a global water gardening company. And part of that job affords me the opportunity to enjoy a few adventures, like traveling to the UK for business. I’m going to extend my trip beyond the symposium to do some sight-seeing with my daughter. I’ve already told her that traveling to the Cotswold area is top of the bucket list.

The International Waterlily and Water Gardening Society holds its waterlily symposium every year, offered in different parts of the world. A big part of the event is visiting various botanical gardens and water gardens. I’ve always loved English gardens and am super excited to visit the Royal Botanic Gardens among other gardening sites.

But back to the charming Cotswold cottages! I’m envisioning the most idyllic, rolling countryside dotted with stone cottages and sheep grazing out in the fields. I’ve already researched some of the towns in this 800 square mile area rich with history.

Castle Combe and Bibury are at the top of my list to visit. If you’ve ever been there, be sure to leave me a comment at the end of the post. I don’t know if we’ll make it out to Stonehenge since there are a lot of things my daughter and I want to see.

Thatched-roof cottages, stone houses, brick charmers, and stone fences are all things I hope to see.

I’m sure many of the Cotswold cottages are adorned with colorful front doors.

Before the symposium begins, my daughter and I are spending some time in Windsor. The Airbnb that I booked is just across the road from Windsor Castle and the Long Walk. This all feels like a dream to me. It’s my first trip to Europe and is hopefully the beginning of many more overseas trips to come.

Part of our plan is to spend a day in London. My son has been there but wasn’t particularly fond of it because it was so crowded. So we’re going on a weekday and hope to visit Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey when it’s not as busy. And of course, we’ll probably wander the streets to enjoy the historic homes.

This street in London reminds me of the scene from the musical Oliver when the vendors sing, “ Who Will Buy ” as they walk down the street selling their goods in front of the houses.

As always, I’ll take plenty of photos of historic homes and Cotswold cottages. I’ll also take pictures of the amazing waterlilies at the water gardens we’re going to see, but I’ll probably share them on my other blog, Pond and Garden (which I’ve unfortunately been neglecting). This is a Victorian waterlily which has lily pads about five feet in diameter. Isn’t it beautiful?

Let me know if there are other points of interest near Windsor and west of London you think I should visit!

Similar Posts

A Walking Tour of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Seems like I’m getting the traveling bug out of me before we hunker down for the winter. My daughters and I took a short weekend trip to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. I chose to go for a walking tour of the historic area and take some photos while they opted to nap Saturday afternoon.   I…

You’ll Love These 13 Cozy and Snowy Cottages

We head to Galena this week to enjoy our annual family Christmas together, but I don’t think we’re going to be blessed with snow. For me, it always feels a bit more festive when snow is on the ground for the holidays. To get myself in the spirit, I’ll enjoy today’s collection of 13 cozy…

Eclectic Neighborhood: Charming Homes in the Chicago ‘Burbs

You gotta love spring in Chicagoland! It’s either snowing or it’s 60 degrees. There’s no in-between. So as long as there’s snow on the ground today, let’s take another snowy walk around an eclectic neighborhood in Downers Grove. Although today’s walk actually took place several weeks ago, I took so many photos that I’m still…

Fall on the Farm in Southwest Michigan

Hello November! Although the calendar still says it’s fall, Mother Nature decided to dump a few inches of snow on us in time for Halloween. Not fun! But on a positive note, I had the pleasure of visiting my sister and enjoying fall on her farm in southwest Michigan with both my daughters and their…

Bungalow House: An American Classic

One of my favorite home exteriors is a bungalow house. The first home I ever purchased as an adult was a Sears kit catalog bungalow. The minute I stepped inside the doorway with the realtor I knew I needed to call it my own. One day I’ll go back and take a photo of it…

Scandinavian Houses: Let’s Take a Trip!

Since we won’t be able to take overseas trips anytime soon, I thought it might be fun to check out architecture from other areas. So let’s take a trip across the pond to see the exteriors of Scandinavian houses.   A cute little row of white cottages line a cobblestone street. Doesn’t it look like…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Oh how fun! I’m so happy for you and excited to hear about your trip. I’ve never been either. That’s sweet that your daughter will be with you.

I thoroughly enjoyed Cotswold tours by GoCotswolds (a sweet family-owned business) and GoTours (from London). You and your daughter will have so much fun!

I have been to the UK a couple of times and loved it! Unfortunately I never made it toCotswold. I cannot say enough about the benefits of traveling abroad. You will come home a different person. I’m so excited for you!

Wow! What wonderful memories will be made with your daughter! I have noticed in pictures of the Cotswold area, the beautiful flowers and flowering bushes. Yet, isn’t it a rather rainy and overcast area? What is your knowledge regarding that?

Cotswold is on my Bucket List! Safe travels. Enjoy!

Jennifer, have you ever read The Shell Seekers by Rosamunde Pilcher? A large portion of the book takes place in a cottage in the Cotswolds, and the descriptions of the cottages, cooking and gardens are so descriptive that you can just see them.

I’ve been to the Cotswolds and it is wonderful! The charming villages are fairy-tale like. Especially Castle Combe, where we came upon a lovely old woman selling pastries out of her Dutch door and watched the Morris dancers (a local tradition dating back hundreds of years). You will absolutely love it!

Enjoyed this and hope you and your daughter have a great time.

A trip I have always wanted to take but it looks like I never will at this point. You are a lucky women.

• Wimborne Minster
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Very enjoyable - Wimborne Model Town

• Europe    
• United Kingdom (UK)    
• England    
• Dorset    
• Wimborne Minster    
• Wimborne Minster - Things to Do    
• Wimborne Model Town

Nice little model town with interesting window displays. Perfect for smaller children as it seems... read more

A bit quirky and a reminder of how our parents entertained themselves. Maybe has more relevance if... read more

Very enjoyable

We took the grandchildren during the Easter holidays and we all had a lovely few hours. Parking is nearby or a short walk from the town. The model village is fairly small and 2 adults 2 children is £30. Your ticket turns into an annual ticket and if you live locally feel that it is good value. It is better geared for the younger guest I think but still fun. They have quiz sheets where you need to find the hidden eggs (in our case) which was a tad too difficult for the younger guest. There is also a very small play area, crazy golf, a train exhibition, Wareham bears exhibition, shop and tea room. Very pleasant staff. All in all we enjoyed our visit and were pleasantly surprised and can't wait to go back next holidays.

Nice little model town with interesting window displays. Perfect for smaller children as it seems to be themed with them in mind. Lovely that the place is run by volunteers, who all seemed very helpful. A little overpriced though at £37 for a family of 5 for a couple of hours entertainment (extra for the mini golf). Entry is valid for 12 months which is great if you are local.

A bit quirky and a reminder of how our parents entertained themselves. Maybe has more relevance if you grew up here and could remember Wimborne as it used to be. Found the indoor exhibits much more interesting than the model town, but can't fault the volunteer staff. Free return for 12 months, but not enough here to bring me back unless they put on new display/ exhibit.

Such an interesting and life like, model town and gardens. Extremely impressed with the quality of the model town. Plenty to do and see, from the model village, to a life before Lego exhibition, model railway, Wareham bears and lots more. Extremely friendly staff. Fun for children as well as adults.

A delightful classic model town with excellent visitor facilities; cafe, new toilets, model railway, teddy bears dolls houses & friendly, helpful volunteer staff. Town was constructed in 1952 and depicts Wimborne as it was then. Tickets are valid for 12 months.

Great place to go to. Lots to do for people of all ages. Good value and excellent facilities. Well worth a visit.

• 8 Towns Perfect For Retirement In New England

It is said that Maine has more trees than people, half of Rhode Island is made up of beaches, and Massachusetts ’s drivers are some of the most creative. The facts are that Vermont’s rolling green hills are incredibly beautiful and that the six New England states are often ranked among the best in the nation for healthcare access, safety, and quality of life. And while New England states are not the best for tax-friendliness (it is a mixed bag), they boast some of the best amenities of any region in the United States. If you are considering retiring in New England, we reveal below eight towns that are perfect for retirement in New England .

Yarmouth, Maine

Maine is often ranked number one in the United States for public safety and a decision to retire in the state is bound to be among the best that anyone can make. Offering residents a sparse suburban feel, Yarmouth is a cozy, welcoming town full of good people and nice neighborhoods. While the town has almost everything an old-timer will need, including access to shopping venues such as Hannaford and Rosemont Market, Portland, Maine , is a short, 15-minute drive away. Portland is home to several highly-rated hospitals, including Maine Medical Center, a 2024 recipient of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Outpatient Joint Replacement Award. The beautiful Royal River meanders through Yarmouth and gives it an added layer of rustic charm. Also, Royal River Park features a nice paved path parallel to the river and can make for an early-morning routine. Plus, your pup will run to its heart’s content at the awesome Twin Brook Recreation Area. Yarmouth’s median age is 41, a sweet blend between the young and the old. In a similar vein, residents aged 60 and above comprise 22% of the population. That said, the median listing home price in Yarmouth is $749,000.

Lincoln, Rhode Island

While the Ocean State has its ups and downs, retiring in Lincoln comes with numerous benefits. For starters, an empty nester will be just 10 minutes away from Providence, the largest city in the state. You will enjoy living in attractive neighborhoods, have access to beautiful parks, including the adventure-filled Lincoln Woods State Park, and enjoy a good quality of life. The Blackstone River is a prominent feature of the town and will come in handy for those who enjoy boating adventures. At Lincoln Woods State Park, one can swim, kayak, picnic, or just sit down and enjoy the views. Providence hosts several good hospitals, including The Miriam Hospital, a 2022 recipient of the America's 100 Best Hospitals Award. Lincoln’s median age is a sweet and calm 43, and residents aged 60 and above constitute 28% of the population. You do not have to break the bank either: The median listing home price in Lincoln is just $379,000.

Auburn, Massachusetts

One of the best places to live in Massachusetts , Auburn exemplifies the essence of a small American town. Encircled by rolling hills and lush forests, the environment here is so beautiful that a retiree will look half her age. Avid anglers will be frequent visitors to the beautiful Lake Auburn’ while hiking enthusiasts will make friends with Dr. Arthur and Dr. Martha Pappas Recreation Complex. Food lovers are not left behind, either. A delicious array of cozy cafes and family-owned restaurants dot the town. There is the Outback Steakhouse as well, a boisterous, Australian-themed eatery that serves phenomenal chicken wings. Auburn is surrounded by numerous waterbodies, including Dark Brook, which is known locally as “Electric Pond.” It is a popular fishing, boating, and kayaking destination. To spice things up, a retiree here will be just 5 miles from Worcester, New England’s second-largest city. Worcester hosts excellent hospitals, including the Saint Vincent Hospital. With a median age of 43, an empty nester’s social circle will comprise both the young and folks in the same age bracket. Finally, one does not have to splurge on a home. In March 2024, the median listing home price in Auburn was just $410,000.

New London, Connecticut

If your idea of retirement includes mingling with a whole range of different people and appreciating their varied cultures, start scoping for a home in New London. For perspective, Whites, Hispanics, and Blacks comprise 49%, 29%, and 14% of New London’s population, respectively. While the town boasts a bubbly median age of 35, residents aged 60 and above comprise 21% of the population. The Garde Arts Center, smack in the middle of downtown New London, is one of Connecticut ’s few remaining historic movie palaces. It was built in 1926. But New London is chockful of other attractions. Sites such as Ocean Beach Park ( It styles itself as New England's finest sugar sand Beach), the dog-friendly Harkness Memorial State Park, Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum, and Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park, the site of the largest Revolutionary War battle in Connecticut — will all make a year look like a weekend. The sweetest part is that New London is unbelievably affordable, especially considering what it offers. The median listing home price in New London is just $252,500. Concerning healthcare access, New London hosts the award-winning Lawrence and Memorial Hospital.

Camden, Maine

A quaint downtown area, one of the coolest libraries in the state, and the blue waters of the world’s second-largest ocean — are features that will pique the interest of any retiree. You have the Mt. Battie Trailhead as well, which offers spectacular views — even if a bit more exerting. There is the eye-catching Curtis Island Lighthouse as well. An empty nester will also fall in love with the beautiful village green, the attractive Megunticook Falls, which is unique for being right in the middle of town, and the Camden Amphitheater, a nice venue to ride bikes on a glorious Saturday afternoon. Rockport, which is a heartbeat away, hosts the highly-rated Pen Bay Medical Center. But here is the best part. Camden’s median age is 50, and residents aged 60 and above comprise 43% of the population. That said, this town is a bit affluent. Homes fetch a median listing price of 742,500.

Keene, New Hampshire

With the Asuelet River meandering through the town, the Keene State College offering seniors a broad range of interesting courses, and the Thai Garden transporting the taste buds all the way to Bangkok, Keene is not as appreciated as it should be. An empty nester will enjoy captivating shows at the majestic Redfern Arts Center and, once in a while — will want to explore the walking paths inside Robin Hood Park. For urgent medical situations, Cheshire Medical Center is right in town. While Keene’s median age is 36, residents aged 60 and above comprise 24% of the population. Then again, you do not need to deplete your savings. In March 2024, Keene's median listing home price was just $375,000.

Phippsburg, Maine

While relatively less known, Phippsburg’s retirement appeal is top-notch. As a teaser, Phippsburg’s median age is 54. Therefore, in terms of social support, it provides an unmatched experience. In a similar vein, residents aged 60 and above comprise 41% of the population. Granted, Phippsburg is tiny and boasts a population of just about 2,000. However, a retiree here will access almost all requisite necessities. Mid Coast Hospital, for instance, a 93-bed facility with a 24-hour emergency department, is just 10 miles away in Brunswick. A retiree has the Kennebec River at her doorstep — as well as Center Pond, a nice venue to paddleboard or kayak. On the flip side, avid hikers will want to make good use of the Cooley Center Pond Preserve Trailhead. Phippsburg also ticks the box, especially for those looking for budget-friendly venues. According to Zillow, the average Phippsburg home value is $487,568. That said, Phippsburg is particularly ideal for retirees who relish quiet, secluded settings. And it is not in the middle of nowhere. Portland, Maine, is just a 40-minute drive.

Northampton, Massachusetts

Northampton is on the edge of the Berkshires, a stunning region of Massachusettes known for superior outdoor attractions. Retiring here, therefore, comes with being close to several pristine lakes for swimming, lush vineyards for wine tasting, and a rich menu of other natural attractions. Mount Holyoke Range State Park, for instance, besides overwhelming the senses, boasts 30 miles of hiking trails. Then there is the Connecticut River, the longest river in New England. Elwell State Park, which is bounded by the river on every side, is a nice spot to fish, bike, or chat with a friend. Northampton is in the Five Colleges Community and provides convenient access to UMass Amherst, Mount Holyoke College, Hampshire College, Smith College, and Amherst College. While home to a sizable student population, Northampton’s median age is a mellow 42. Residents aged 60 and above comprise 28% of its population. Finally, the median listing home price in Northampton is $550,000.

The Takehome

If an empty nester wants to wake up to the sound of crashing waves, be close to sparkling lakes or rugged peaks, live in incredibly safe neighborhoods, and be a heartbeat away from excellent hospitals, the New England Region is simply unbeatable. For those who want to nest in New England, a good piece of advice is to identify a place beforehand so you can spend a vacation there before moving. If lost for choice, you will want to place your bet on Yarmouth, Maine; Lincoln, Rhode Island; Auburn, Massachusetts; or New London, Connecticut.

More in Places

6 Most Idyllic Small Towns In The Great Lakes

8 Cutest Small Towns In Utah To Visit In 2024

6 Most Inviting Towns In California's Sierra Nevada

7 Most Idyllic Small Towns In New Hampshire

6 Top-Ranked Towns in Colorado for Retirees

7 Most Idyllic Small Towns in Illinois

The Best Small Towns in Florida's Emerald Coast for a Weekend Retreat

7 Coolest Towns In Indiana For A Summer Vacation In 2024

Conde Nast named this MA island one of the best places in the world to travel to this May

Looking for a world class trip without having to leave New England in the next few weeks?

There's an option, and one that just so happens to be a favorite spot of President Joe Biden.

Conde Nast Traveler recently released its list of the 13 best places in the world to travel in May, and a popular New England destination made the list, alongside places like Zambia, the Cyclades, and Sicily.

May, they said,  "is one of our favorite times to roam the world because the weather is usually ideal no matter where you go—whether in the Northern Hemisphere or the Southern, and the crowds are much thinner than during the summer months when most families and their kids are off for holidays."

What New England spot landed on the Conde Nast Traveler list?

Nantucket was ranked at number five for the best places in the world to travel in the month of May, according to Conde Nast Traveler.

Why did Conde Nast Traveler say this destination is great in May ?

The Conde Nast Traveler website stated, "So much more than just a summer town,  Nantucket  is a beauty in every season. But there are a few perks to visiting in May - namely, beating the summer influx of tourists. You won’t have to dodge quite as many crowds as you bike and sail your way around the island, and you can score some unobstructed views of the three million daffodils that bloom here in late April and early May."

Other tips from Conde Nast Traveler

If you go to Nantucket in May, Condé Nast recommended adding the following to your itinerary:

• Eat seafood at the many restaurants on the island.
• Try the oysters at  Cru  (open for the season in May) or Atlantic halibut at  Dune .
• Plan your visit around the  Nantucket Wine Festival , a four-day event happening from May 15-19, 2024.
• Stay at  The Wauwinet , a five-star hotel on the island that allows visitors some quiet isolation.

Biden visits: President Biden often goes to Nantucket for Thanksgiving

What other spots made the list?

Other places on the Conde Nast Traveler list include:

• Zambia, Africa;
• The Cyclades, Greece
• Holland, Michigan
• Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
• Machu Picchu, Peru
• Louisville, Kentucky
• Healdsburg, California
• Sicily, Italy
• he Hamptons, New York
• Puebla, Mexico
• Nova Scotia, Canada
• Greenville, South Carolina.

Fun facts about this destination

The following are facts from the Nantucket Historical Association:

• While it's a tourist destination now, in the beginning sheep had the run of the island. "At the beginning of English settlement on Nantucket , most of the island was one unfenced common for the grazing of livestock, mainly sheep."
• It used to be that people used the moon to predict the weather. "In the days before modern weather forecasting, Nantucketers anticipated bad weather around the time of an underground moon. The  Inquirer and Mirror ’s 12-month calendar not only indicated the phases of the moon throughout each month but the dates on which an underground moon would occur. "
• Collecting seaweed is a right of the townspeople. "In 1904 a committee making recommendations for the management of the Cliff Bathing Beach included: 'The right to collect seaweed from the beach, subject to the direction of the Cliff Bathing Beach Commissioners, shall be reserved to the town’s people.'"
• "The first golf course was the Nantucket Golf Course on the north shore along Cliff Road." It was built in 1897, with a permanent clubhouse being built in 1899.
• One of the first industries on Nantucket  was silk, with the whaling industry taking off later that century.

9 Best Small British Cities to Visit: Off-The-Beaten-Path Gems

Grey Globetrotters contains affiliate links and is an Amazon Services LLC Associates Program member. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy  for more information.

Nowhere in the world has such quirky little cities as Britain! When you’re looking for places to visit in England other than London, you’ll find plenty of fascinating smaller British cities to visit – each one welcoming and culturally rich – perfect for your UK itinerary.

With so many small cities in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales to choose from, you might find it a little overwhelming to decide which city to explore and which places to visit in the UK for a weekend.

This collection includes 9 of the best small British cities to visit – each blessed with gorgeous scenery and fascinating history. Top travel bloggers have shared their very best tips for which small cities in the UK you should visit, including what to see and do, where to eat and where to stay:

9 Lovely Little British Cities to Visit

This article aims to inspire you to visit small cities in the UK! You’ll discover some well-known names, but there are some real hidden gems sprinkled in here too! While the City of London and the City of Westminster are both small cities, this post focuses on little cities that you can visit beyond London.

1. Wells, Somerset

Wells is the smallest city in England, located in Somerset, southwest of the larger cities of Bath and Bristol. 

The stunning 13th century Wells cathedral sits at the top of the bustling high street. Adjacent to this is the beautiful Bishop’s Palace , where the freshwater springs which give the city its name are located. 

Look out for the pretty 650 year old houses at Vicar’s Close , near the cathedral. Originally built to house the Vicar’s Choral, the close is the oldest, still inhabited street in the United Kingdom.

One of Wells’s smallest but nicest restaurants is The Courtyard – tucked away a short distance from the cathedral. 

Stay here: Beryl Country House is the perfect place for a country retreat within the city.

2. Ripon, North Yorkshire

Tiny Ripon is the perfect small British city to visit if you love history, glorious North Yorkshire countryside, quirky traditions and unique little museums.

Located in the lush green Yorkshire Dales, while Ripon has no train station, it is within 75 minutes of Leeds (by train to Harrogate and onward by comfortable bus).

Visiting the cathedral is one of the most popular things to do in Ripon . Dating back to the 11th century, Ripon Cathedral also contains the oldest building of any cathedral in England (the intact 7th century Anglo-Saxon crypt)!

Ripon also has three fascinating Victorian museums and a thriving market. If you’re in the market square at 9 pm, you can witness the Ripon Hornblower “setting the watch” – an ancient tradition dating back 1200 years!

Many visitors to Ripon use the city as a base for a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal water gardens.

Stay here: The comfortable Royal Oak Hotel  in the Market Square or, for a luxury stay, the fabulous Grantley Hall . Find more places to stay in Ripon here .

3. Stirling, Scotland

Stirling is a former capital of Scotland and one of the best small cities to visit in the UK. Stirling Castle should be on your bucket list, as many visitors say it’s better than Edinburgh Castle!

Beyond the castle, visit the National Wallace Monument to enjoy views across the valley. You can go inside the monument to see various weapons and get insights into Sir William Wallace and the fight for Scottish independence.

True history buffs should then head to the Battle of Bannockburn Experience , where the continuation of that fight under the leadership of King Robert the Bruce truly comes to life!

After exploring, grab a meal at Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy or the Settle Inn for traditional pub vibes.

In fact, Stirling is a perfect city break for all of central Scotland! It’s an easy day trip from Edinburgh by train, taking about 50 minutes, while from Glasgow Queen Street, it’s only about a 30-minute train journey.

Stay here: Hotel Colessio for a central location with a splash of opulence.

Read Next > 12 Fairytale Scottish Castles To Love

4. Bath, Somerset

Famous worldwide for magnificent golden-coloured limestone buildings and Roman influence, Bath is a vibrant small British city with over 40 museums, good restaurants, quality shopping and theatres.

The city became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 – the only city in the UK with this designation. Thanks to its heritage, Bath is widely regarded as one of the best British cities to visit.

Located in the gorgeous English countryside in Southwest England, Bath is 156km west of London and 18km south-east of Bristol, where the nearest airport is located.

There are so many incredible things to do in Bath . You can immerse yourself in history by visiting the Roman Baths and Pulteney Bridge and admiring the beautiful Georgian architecture of The Royal Crescent .

Enjoy a drink or afternoon tea in The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa , then explore the Jane Austin Museum . Be sure to also stop by Sally Lunn’s , which is in itself a museum, and try their world-famous walnut cake and milk jam.

Stay here: No.15 Great Pulteney and Abbey Hotel Bath are just perfect.

5. Derry, Northern Ireland

Derry is a lovely little city in Northern Ireland, worth visiting for its history, pretty architecture, as well as fantastic food scene. Derry has its own airport, where daily flights from London land. You can also fly to Belfast, and take a bus to Derry, for more convenient flight times and airline options.

There are plenty of things to do in Derry , starting with a tour of Free Derry , in order to understand the recent history of the city. The area has many commemorative murals that remind visitors of the Troubles and you can go to see the street art with the artists who created them.

The Peace Bridge connects the two sides of the city where the two different political supporters lived – like a handshake across the water.

Another great tour that you can join in Derry is the historical walk over the city walks . Taking you 400 years back in history, you will learn how the city managed to remain the only intact walled city in Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Stay here: City Hotel has great offers and rooms with views over the river. You also must eat at the Walled City Brewery , a restaurant and bar that doesn’t stock any commercial brands and brews everything on the premises. 

6. Lincoln, Lincolnshire

Lincoln is one of the most charming small cities in England. Its pebbled streets, historical buildings, quirky independent shops, and tea rooms make it a great destination.

When visiting Lincoln , you’ll want to visit medieval Lincoln Castle , which has beautiful grounds, an interesting prison, and is the only place in the world with an original 1215 Magna Carta. Another must-see attraction is Lincoln Cathedral, where you can book a rooftop tour for some of the best views in the city.

Other great activities in Lincoln include going to the Lincoln Museum , walking on the pier , or taking a boat tour and window shopping in Steep Hill .

Bunty’s Tea Room is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious piece of cake or afternoon tea. For dinner, head to Lincoln’s waterfront where you will find plenty of food options. However, one of the best places to have dinner is Olé Olé Tapas which offers a great selection of Spanish tapas.

Stay here: DoubleTree by Hilton situated in Brayford Waterfront. It’s not far from the city centre, has comfortable rooms and a rooftop bar overlooking the pier.

7. Salisbury, Wiltshire

Salisbury is best known for the nearby stone circle of Stonehenge . Many people arrive in Salisbury on a day trip from London by train and then immediately hop on a bus to make a beeline for Stonehenge. But the city of Salisbury is definitely worth a look around.

The main landmark in Salisbury is its amazing 13th century Gothic cathedral , which has the tallest spire in the country and quite possibly also the oldest working clock in the world . It also has the largest cloister in England, while the Chapter House hosts the best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta on display!

Stay here: Cricket Field House , a modern B&B with an impressive garden. And if you want to grab a bite, stop by Boston Tea Party , a family-owned café that serves homemade feel-good food in a building dating all the way back to the 1300s.

8. Bangor, North Wales

Picturesque little Bangor in North Wales is one of the oldest small cities in the UK and the oldest in Wales . It’s a far cry from the archetypal vision of a city, as it’s tiny yet has an international airport.

Bangor is also a bilingual city, with a large population of university students (who outnumber the city residents), mostly speaking English, while many of the city’s residents speak Welsh as a first language.

With glorious views of the Menai Straits and across to the Welsh hills, Bangor is beautifully located, and it’s also easy to explore on foot.

Don’t miss a trip to the 19th century Penrhyn Castle – a “fantasy” Welsh castle with incredible views, or down to the historic Bangor Pier, the 2nd oldest pier in Wales. You can also visit the small but stunning 6th-century Bangor Cathedral with its exquisite stained glass windows and regular organ recitals.

Stay here: The ultimate place to stay is at Bangor University !

9. Norwich, Norfolk

Norw ich  may no longer be England’s second-largest city as it was during medieval times, but it still has plenty to offer visitors. This little city in England is about a two-hour train from London’s Liverpool Street station, and you can explore the city on foot. 

Take a walk along the River Wensum, which snakes through the city centre and take a stroll down the picturesque Elm Hill , arguably one of the prettiest streets in England.  

Next, head to Norwich Market, one of t he country’s oldest and largest outdoor markets.  You must also visit Norwich Cathedral, the most complete Norman Cathedral in England and one of Europe’s finest examples of Romanesque architecture.  It is free to go inside and see the world’s largest collection of medieval roof bosses.

For a real treat, head to the Assembly House for afternoon tea . Not only is the food amazing but the setting is special too.  It’s a Grade I-listed building that hosted a Grand Ball to celebrate Lord Nelson’s victory at the Cape of Trafalgar.  They also have 15 rooms, so you can stay the night if you book in advance.

Wrap Up – Small British Cities to Visit

As you can see, there are some gorgeous little British cities to visit and, as they usually have far fewer crowds than the UK’s biggest cities, exploring them is a really attractive idea.

Whether you prefer bustling British cities, or fancy visiting small cities in England with hidden gems to discover, there are so many small cities in the UK to explore. The most difficult thing is picking just one to visit!

Like this post? Pin and save for later.

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe and bucketlist destinations with meticulously crafted guides and affordable luxury itineraries, Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems.

Similar Posts

Mistletoe Magic: 16 Best Things to Do in York at Christmas 🎁

Grey Globetrotters contains affiliate links and is an Amazon Services LLC Associates Program member. If you make a purchase using one of…

19 Fun & Unusual Things To Do In York, UK (From A Local)

6 Best Tank Museums in the UK For Military History Fans

Whispering Walls: Discover the 7 Best Ghost Walks in York 👻

Visiting Fountains Abbey (Best Things To Do + Hidden Gems)

What To Do In Durham: 21 Local Favourites & Hidden Gems 🇬🇧