best places to visit uk in summer

The 9 Best Places to Visit in the UK for Summer

The UK might not be the first place people think of when it comes to summer vacations but it should never be discounted. There are some pretty incredible places to visit in the UK during the summer. From the sunny coast of Cornwall to the dramatic and rugged landscape of Scotland. When it comes to escaping the daily grind, the UK offers some truly spectacular sites you just won’t find anywhere else.

Whether you’re planning a romantic couples retreat, a family adventure holiday, or as a trial run for when you decide to find the cheapest places to live in the UK . The UK offers it all. Although you can visit at any time of the year, we personally recommend the summer as it truly showcases just how beautiful this country can be. 

We’ve put together a guide to nine of the best places to visit in the UK for summer and what you can expect to find in each place. Expect history, culture, beaches, and delicious traditional food.

Table of Contents

Those that have visited Cornwall before will agree that it’s hard not to fall in love with its dramatic coastline, captivating fishing harbors, spectacular beaches, epic surf, and endless amounts of cream teas. It’s a part of England where you can indulge your inner water lover, walker, or foodie. 

Located in the west of Great Britain, almost completely surrounded by sea, Cornwall has almost 300 miles of coastline. This is one of the best places to visit in the UK summer simply for the fact that there is so much here to surprise you. From the marvelous Eden project to the natural wonders of the Lost Gardens of Heligan. 

For outdoor lovers, there are plenty of bike routes and walking routes to explore. For the foodies, there’s a multitude of award-winning restaurants to delight your taste buds. And for the history buffs, there’s a tremendous amount of history and heritage across many Cornwall villages. 

You won’t need to visit the Med once you’ve taken a trip to Cornwall as its stunning beaches and glorious weather will captivate your heart. It’s the one place in the UK where you won’t really feel like you are in the UK. The picturesque harbor villages of St Ives and Padstow are perfect for a real cornish feel and the larger towns of Newquay and Falmouth are more tourist orientated and are often very popular with families.

Devon is often referred to as Mother Nature’s playground due to its sweeping moors and dramatic coastal cliffs. Just like its neighbor Cornwall, Devon has so much to offer visitors. Whether you’re searching for adventure, culture, history, or some simple R&R, Devon has it all. Stretching from Ilfracombe in the North to Plymouth in the South, you’ll find numerous sandy beaches, cliffside restaurants, and some perfect waves for a surf.

Encompassing Dartmoor National Park and the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty you’ll find copious amounts of walking trails, biking trails, wildlife, fauna, and so much more. It offers the best of both worlds, providing a great seaside family holiday destination or a countryside retreat. 

Due to its diverse landscape Devon’s restaurants, hotels, cafes, and tearooms have menus packed with locally sourced, fresh, seasonal food and drink. Offering some truly sensational fish and chips as well as other seafood dishes and lavish cream teas – it’s a foodies destination for sure. One that might just rival that of London . 

It may come as a surprise to know that the Devonshire coast enjoys more hours of sunshine than anywhere else on the British Mainland. This is why it makes our list of the best places to visit in the UK for summer. Taking a ride on the Lynton and Lynmouth Funicular Railway is a must as is feeling the sand between your toes at the award-winning sands of Woolacombe Beach.

Home to the iconic Jurassic coast and the infamous Durdle Door, Dorset boasts some truly incredible coast and countryside. There really is no bad time to visit but to make the most of the outdoor wonders this part of England has to offer you’ll want to visit in the summer. From spring breaks, summer vacations, dog-friendly getaways, and family getaways you’ll find it all here. 

Stretching from Bournemouth in the South East to Lyme Regis in the West, Dorset has a wide expanse of coastline and rolling hills. While spring brings with it some beautiful new foliage and cute baby animals, the summer brings good weather and mass crowds. The summer also sees the Bournemouth Air Festival bring crowds from miles around as they watch the Red Arrows, wing walkers, Chinnock’s, typhoons, and more fly overhead, giving a show to awe-struck onlookers. It really is a spectacle you cannot afford to miss. 

One of Dorset’s major draws is the World Heritage Site of Durdle door – a natural limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth. The attraction features a pebble beach and a stunning coastal walk along the South West Coast path. But that’s not all. 

Explore castle ruins, walk along the sandy shores of countless beaches, and marvel at the sight of rare and endangered wildlife in its natural habitat. Camping, hotels, and resorts are in abundance along with shops for some retail therapy. A trip to Dorset will always bring happy memories to you and your family.

Pembrokeshire

The western tip of west Wales is capped off by the UK’s only fully coastal national park: The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. It’s a stunner. White-sand beaches that would look right at home in the Caribbean meet puffin-stalked rocks out at sea, there are quaint Celtic fishing villages with hearty pubs and, inland, forests that roll over soft hills for as far as the eye can see.

The region is split into three main peninsulas. Northern Pembrokeshire is rugged and wild, with high cliffs and bald fells. It comes together in the ancient pilgrimage town of St David’s, where you can visit a grand cathedral and get lost in a maze-like old town laden with chocolatiers and craft beer. Middle Pembrokeshire finishes at the glorious but remote sands of Marloes. It’s a quieter area, with a few campsites and small towns like Little Haven.

The best for families and summer trips is probably the slightly-busier south Pembrokeshire peninsula. That begins in the gorgeous resort of Tenby, where you’ll see ice-cream-colored cottages fringing the docks. Head out from there to find handsome bays like Barafundle and the lily ponds of Bosherston.

From wildflower meadows, ancient wells, jaw-dropping gorges, lush green spaces and woodlands, and shimmering lakes, Somerset will leave you enchanted by its beauty. Somerset includes the historic city of Bath, the seaside resort town of Weston Supermere, and the coastal town of Minehead. 

Whenever someone says Somerset they adopt a semi-pirate accent and we’ll bet that you’ll be repeating it over and over to the annoyance of your fellow friends, family members, and travelers. The name itself should be reason enough to visit, that and the fact its one of the warmest and sunniest places in the UK. 

With Exmoor National Park, Cheddar Gorge, Glastonbury festival, and some of England’s loveliest beaches, you’ll be spoilt for choice of things to do and places to see. If you’re looking for a good nightout, Bath is the place to go. Exploring the beautiful countryside in Somerset is a must, with plenty of caves, underground rivers, various hills, and more, so be sure to bring your walking boots.

Lake District

An outdoor adventurer’s paradise, the Lake District is one of the first places, besides London,  people think of for a British vacation. With rolling green hills, vast expanses of lakes, and stunning views, it’s no wonder travelers vote this as one of the best places to visit in the UK for summer. Whether it’s your first time or 50th time, the Lake District keeps on giving. 

Most travelers advise that three to five days in the Lake District is the optimal amount of time to explore some of its many natural wonders, however, you can also spend a lot longer here without getting bored. There’s plenty of accommodation to suit every type of visitor, whether you’re looking for a hot tub getaway, a romantic break, or even a dog-friendly cabin with lakeside views. 

Cumbria is England’s nature playground with an inexhaustible list of experiences for all ages and interests. One day you could be flying through Grizedale Forest on a zip-wire and paddleboarding on Lake Windermere. Another day you could be fell walking or scaling some rocks followed by playing a round of golf or wild swimming in crystal clear waters. Those that live in the Lake District are proud of their world-class cultural heritage including world-renowned artists, poets, and writers.

Northumberland

Whether it’s your first trip or you’ve visited before, Northumberland offers you big adventures, endless possibilities, and breathtaking scenery. Visit barely touched beaches, romantic castle ruins, quaint market towns, and fishing villages as well as lush green forests. Its coastline is just as rugged as its mainland. 

Sitting on the Scottish Border means you’re not restricted to staying solely within England. So why not make a day of it and cross the border for a day in Edinburgh? It’s only a two-hour drive. From Alnwick Castle to Bamburgh Castle, from Northumberland National Park to bird watching on Farne Islands, and everything in between. 

For any Harry Potter fans, you’ll love the village of Alnwick where you can walk in the steps of Harry, Hermione, and Ron at The Outer Bailey where they learned to fly their broomsticks and play quidditch. Or take a walk around Bamburgh Castle, one of England’s finest, and discover its deep and fascinating history.

A firm favorite among many is star gazing and since the night skies in Northumberland Dark Sky Park are darker than anywhere else in the UK, you can understand why others love it. Due to the lack of night pollution, it’s an amazing place to take that stary nighttime photograph you’ve been trying to take for years. The park is also home to Kielder Observatory where you can participate in numerous stargazing events held there.

North Wales

North Wales is a majorly popular summer destination. Close enough to the big cities of Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool to make it a quick drive across the English border for millions of domestic travelers, it’s been something of a vacation hub for families for since the 1950s. Resort towns like Rhyll and Llandudno are testament to that. They have Victorian buildings lining their foreshore and vintage attractions like the Great Orme and its cable car.

But there’s more to just North Wales than cotton candy on the seafront. There are soaring peaks here – the highest in all of Wales. Drive down through the Snowdonia National Park and you’ll be faced with the sleeping summits of Glyder Fawr and the Crib Goch, all watched over by Yr Wyddfa, the highest of all. Beneath them are charming glamping sites with hot tubs and mythical villages like lovely Beddgelert.

If you manage to make it out to the western coast of North Wales, then there are more treats. Hit the mighty castle at Harlech to channel your inner Norman invader. Skirt down the Llŷn Peninsula to find dune-backed beaches like Pwllheli. Cross to Anglesey to witness the Holyhead writhed in salt mists and waves.

Scottish Highlands

One of the best places to visit in the UK for the summer are the Scottish Highlands . They’re the Scotland of your imagination and house the Cairngorms, Britain’s largest National Park; Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountains; and Loch Ness, one of Britain’s most famous lakes and the birthplace of the mythical Loch Ness monster. 

This vast and sparsely populated UK vacation destination is known for its remarkable castles, friendly locals, traditional Scottish clan history, and whiskey. If you love walking and whisky, then you’re in for a real treat as it not only offers truly breathtaking scenery but it also offers tours around some of the world’s best malt and whiskey factories. 

Hop over to the Isle of Skye for everything from wildlife viewing to fossil discovery. It sits on the northwest of the Scottish Highlands and is connected to the mainland of Scotland by a bridge. It’s the largest of the Inner Hebrides and has a number of small villages scattered throughout the peninsulas. The scenery across the Isle is some of the most awe-inspiring scenery around and will leave a permanent impression on your heart. 

If you’re looking for a little less action, take a look at the Fairy Pools where you can swim in beautiful blue waters under the cascading falls, but be warned it will be a dip that’s far from warm. The Scottish Highlands are filled to the brim with adventure, so be sure to book a summer vacation here.

The best places to visit in the UK for summer – our conclusion

There are plenty of beaches and coastal destinations on our list of the best places to visit in the UK for summer, ranging from the sunny shores of southern Dorset to the wave-lashed edges of West Wales. You’re not guaranteed to have beach weather – this is Britain, remember? However, you are guaranteed some seriously jaw-dropping natural landscapes, from white-sand bays to craggy cliff scapes. Venture inland and the mountain regions really come into their own during the warmer months. Trails open and the likes of the Cairngorms in the Scottish Highlands and the Lake District over in England really shine at their best.

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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UK in Summer: The 18 Best Places to Visit

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There are many places around the world that I consider fantastic destinations to visit in summer and the UK is one of them. If you’ve visited this blog before, then you probably know that I’m not a huge fan of summer travel. It’s noisy, busy, expensive, and altogether not particularly enticing. However, I actually love the UK in summer – well, certain parts of it anyway!

Admittedly, the cities are still very busy, as are many of the beaches. But if you know where to look and find those hidden gems, you can discover a beautiful summer spot that’s both peaceful and perfect. 

So, if you’re looking for a summer escape, here are the best places to visit in the UK in summer.

Average summer temperature : 20°C / 68°F

Let’s start with one of my favourite places to visit in the UK. Dorset is stunning . With its wild coastline, rich history, and natural wonders, Dorset is a great place to visit in the summer months. 

One of the highlights of the area is, of course, the Jurassic Coast. And when in Dorset , it would be silly not to visit the infamous Durdle Door. As well as the coastline, Dorset also has a collection of adorable villages, beautiful castles, wonderful national parks, and great hiking trails. 

You can find a beautiful beach to explore one minute and be strolling along the South West Coast Path the next! From the rolling hills of the Jurassic Coast to the timeless beauty of places like Portland , Weymouth , and Corfe Castle, Dorset is spectacular in summer.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Dorset

2. Cornwall

Average summer temperature : 19°C / 66°F

While summer is easily the busiest period in Cornwall, there’s something undeniably charming about the coastal county during this season. 

Sure, the popular spots might see their fair share of visitors. But, if you navigate the nooks and crannies, you’ll find hidden coves, historic sites, and breathtaking landscapes. Plus, there’s so much history in Cornwall. 

If you’ve ever spent an afternoon enjoying the sunny days, wandering the walls of Tintagel Castle, the Minack Theatre, or the Lost Gardens of Heligan, you’ll honestly never want to leave. 

From the artistic charm of St Ives to the rugged beauty of the Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall in summer is a surprising gem for those seeking a British coastal escape.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Cornwall

3. Cambridge

Average summer temperature : 23°C / 73°F

Cambridge is (and probably will always be) one of my favourite cities in the world. It’s so pretty with the architecture, the universities, and the river running through the centre. And, once the flowers are all in bloom and the sun is shining, it’s one of the most beautiful cities in England. 

There’s plenty to keep you busy in Cambridge . Go punting on the River Cam, climb St Mary’s Church for wonderful views over the city, explore the famous universities, or visit some of the museums Don’t forget to check out the central market for a collection of wonderful food stalls!

As well as this, the areas surrounding the city are ideal to explore in the summer months too. You’ve got a great range of parks and green spaces, ideal for walks , picnics, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

Head to Paradise Nature Reserve, go for a picnic in Grantchester Meadows or even head to one of the nearby villages for a walk and a coffee and scone by the river. 

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Cambridge

Average summer temperature : 21°C / 69°F

Possibly one of the most underrated parts of the UK, Devon is ideal to visit in the UK in summer. It’s breathtaking – and I don’t say this lightly.

There honestly is so much to see in this pretty county. It’s the only county in the UK to have two coastlines and two national parks – so, safe to say, there’s lots to explore!

My personal favourite place to visit in Devon is Dartmoor National Park. It’s honestly so pretty and has so many hiking trails, waterfalls, and hidden gems that you could stay near Dartmoor for a week and still not see everything there is to see there. 

On top of the National Parks, Devon also has some stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and gorgeous towns. Be sure to visit the historic town of Totnes , wander around Salcombe, and explore Plymouth and Torquay – you won’t be able to get enough of Devon in summer, trust me!

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Devon

5. Yorkshire

Another spot that has the ideal blend of big cities and stunning natural scenery is Yorkshire. The country in the north of England is mostly known for the bustling city of York .

It’s one of the most historic cities in the UK with its infamous Minster, picturesque Shambles Street (a Harry Potter fan’s dream ), and hilltop castles. However, there’s plenty more to Yorkshire than just York . 

You also have got to head to the Yorkshire Dales. Featuring more Harry Potter influences (did you know they filmed a scene from The Deathly Hallows here?), some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the UK,  and some utterly fantastic hiking trails, it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer. 

Also in Yorkshire, the North York Moors are also worth a visit for more hiking and wild moorland. Plus, on the east side of Yorkshire, you’ll be within easy reach of the coastal towns of Whitby and Scarborough and picturesque spots like Robin Hood’s Bay. 

Whether you’re hiking through the lush greenery of the Dales or savouring a traditional Yorkshire pudding wrap at a street market, Yorkshire in summer is unforgettable.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Yorkshire

6. Snowdonia

Average summer temperature : 18°C / 64°F

If you’ve dreamed of climbing the UK’s highest mountain but the prospect of doing so under the near-constant cover of rain that north Wales is blessed with. You might want to consider visiting Snowdonia in the summer. 

The rugged beauty of Snowdonia National Park takes on a softer, more inviting vibe during the warmer months. Its majestic peaks, peaceful lakes, and lush valleys are practically asking to be explored.

Hiking enthusiasts can attempt to climb Mount Snowdon, while those seeking a more leisurely pace can meander through other enchanting trails in the National Park, discovering hidden waterfalls and ancient woodlands. 

The quaint villages and coastal towns like Llandudno nestled at the foothills offer a warm Welsh welcome. You’ll find cosy pubs, fish and chip shops, and charming cottages.

Whether you’re conquering summits or enjoying a leisurely lakeside picnic, summer in Snowdonia is both invigorating and soul-soothing. Snowdonia is perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Snowdonia

7. Edinburgh

Edinburgh in summer is both charming and a little hectic. I’ve utterly loved visiting Edinburgh in the winter months and summer is a completely different vibe. However, that doesn’t make it any less worth it. 

The cobbled streets of the Old Town come alive with the buzz of festivals and street performers – the iconic Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes place every August attracting a load of people from all over the world. It’s truly an electric vibe and well worth the visit.

As well as the events in the city, some of the classics are still worth a visit. The iconic Edinburgh Castle towers proudly over the city. From the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Edinburgh below.

Princes Street Gardens is alive with a riot of colours and is the ideal place for an afternoon stroll among the flowers. The Royal Mile also becomes a bustling thoroughfare, lined with quirky shops, charming cafes, and lively pubs. 

From the lively chaos of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe to the beautiful views from Arthur’s Seat, the city offers a delightful mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty.

Whether enjoying a panoramic sunset from Calton Hill or sipping whisky in a cosy pub, Edinburgh is one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Edinburgh

8. Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight was one of my favourite places to visit as a child. My parents took me there and it was the first time I’d ever left mainland England . Safe to say, it’s left a pretty lasting impression.

In the summer months, it’s nothing short of stunning. This peaceful little island off the southern coast of England has so much coastal beauty and lush landscapes during the warmer months.

The sandy shores, like those at Shanklin and Sandown, are ideal for relaxing and catching a tan, while the dramatic cliffs of the Needles add a touch of awe to the scenery. Meanwhile, quaint villages such as Godshill and Ventnor exude a timeless charm, with their thatched cottages and vibrant gardens. 

You can also find the festival atmosphere on the Isle of Wight as well as in Edinburgh, especially during the Isle of Wight Festival , which brings a lively energy to the island.

Whether exploring the historical Osborne House, embarking on scenic coastal walks, or exploring the stunning Blackgang Chine, the Isle of Wight in summer is the ideal island escape, without leaving the UK.

✅ Discover the best places to stay on the Isle of Wight

One of the UK’s most picturesque cities , Bath is easily one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer. The historic centre will undoubtedly be busy, but with warm weather, gorgeous historic sites, and plenty of hidden gems, there’s a lot to see in Bath.

Bath in summer is an exquisite blend of history and natural beauty, with its Georgian architecture and lush greenery creating a picture-perfect English escape. The lush greenery of the Royal Victoria Park provides the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.

The River Avon weaves its way through the city, creating picturesque scenes along the Pulteney Bridge and the tranquil Kennet and Avon Canal. 

You absolutely have to visit the iconic Roman Baths. A trip here is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history. The vibrant energy of Bath Abbey Square is infectious too, with street performers and alfresco diners creating a lively atmosphere. 

Bath in summer is captivating. A perfect combination of past and present and an ideal English city to visit during the warmer months.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Bath

10. Norfolk

Average summer temperature : 22°C / 71°F

Norfolk is easily a hidden gem in England . It’s one of those places where you don’t quite expect there to be so much beauty, but you end up running into pretty places at every turn. 

First, visit the vast Norfolk Broads. Dotted with picturesque windmills and meandering waterways, they provide a peaceful setting for boating and birdwatching. 

Next, the North Norfolk Coast reveals its unspoiled charm, with beautiful beaches stretching along the coastline. I personally love the cliffs at Hunstanton and think the colours here are stunning.

Then, quaint villages like Blakeney and Burnham Market provide the charming side of Norfolk, with cobblestone streets, little cottages, and historic architecture. 

There are so many nature reserves in Norfolk which makes it ideal for those who love the outdoors. Plus, many of the beaches are so vast that they’re never too crowded, from Hunstanton down to Cromer.

But, if you prefer things a little more lively, head to Great Yarmouth for the typical British seaside town vibe.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Norfolk  

Oxford is a fantastic place to visit in the British summer time. With a similar academic charm to Cambridge, you’ll find a plethora of universities, stunning architecture, and history.

But you’ll also find castles, splendid museums, iconic spires, and historic landmarks, such as the Radcliffe Camera 

The tranquil meadows along the River Cherwell beckon with the promise of lazy punting afternoons, while the floral wonders of the University of Oxford Botanic Garden burst into vibrant bloom. 

You can practically taste the city’s vibrant energy down the bustling streets surrounding the Covered Market, where you can browse the various shops and open-air cafes until your heart’s content. 

From the beauty of the Magdalen College grounds to the intellectual atmosphere of the Bodleian Library, Oxford is one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Oxford

12. The Lake District

If you love hiking trails and beautiful scenery, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the Lake District. Easily one of the most picturesque parts of the UK, the Lake District in summer is a stunning combination of rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and quaint villages. 

The landscapes are their greenest in the summer months, which makes the whole region a haven for nature enthusiasts. A few of the must-visit spots include Lake Windermere and Lake Derwentwater, the ideal spots for leisurely boat rides and lakeside strolls.

If you like hiking, you could even attempt England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike. Or try other trails such as Cat Bells for stunning panoramic views. 

As well as rolling hills and lakes, you also have charming towns like Ambleside and Keswick, which are super cute with their cobbled streets and pretty tearooms. 

From the historic charm of Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top to the peaceful serenity of Grasmere, the Lake District is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the beauty of England’s countryside.

✅  Discover the best places to stay in the Lake District

13. Bristol

Bristol is one of the most captivating cities in the UK, yet somehow many people always seem to skip it. With the surrounding natural beauty and vibrant city centre, Bristol has a range of things to keep you busy.

There are historic museums, thought-provoking street art, cosy cafes, and picturesque viewpoints.

In the summer months, the harborside, with its vibrant cafes and bustling waterfront, becomes a focal point for both locals and visitors. It’s the perfect backdrop for leisurely walks and alfresco dining.

The colourful houses of Clifton and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge are well worth a visit. The views across the Avon Gorge are truly stunning.

The city’s street art scene comes alive with the vivid colours of festivals like Upfest, transforming the streets into an open-air gallery.

Parks and green spaces, such as Ashton Court Estate are the ideal places for picnics and outdoor activities. Meanwhile, the historic SS Great Britain is a must-visit for history lovers.

Bristol in summer seamlessly combines its rich maritime history with a contemporary cultural flair, making it a wonderful place to explore.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Bristol

14. The Cotswolds

From bustling cities to charming little villages, the Cotswolds are picture-perfect in the summer months. Admittedly, my personal favourite time of year to visit them is in the autumn once the leaves change colour.

But it’s much cooler then, and if you love floral blooms and sunny streets, summer is perfect. 

A few of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds include Bibury (named the most beautiful village in England ), Castle Combe, Upper and Lower Slaughter, Cirencester and Bourton-on-the-Water. The villages come alive with floral displays, and their limestone cottages are some of the prettiest in the country.

The scent of blooming flowers fills the air as you wander through the meticulously maintained gardens of Hidcote Manor or stroll along the peaceful banks of the River Windrush.

The Cotswold Way offers scenic walking trails, while cosy tearooms are perfect for grabbing a cream tea and relaxing by little streams.

If you’re after historic market towns that capture the essence of rural England, the Cotswolds is one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Cotswolds

I couldn’t write a list of places to visit in the UK in summer and not mention London now, could I? The bustling capital city is certainly not the most peaceful place to explore during the summer months. But, it has a certain charm to it when the days are warmer. 

It’s the best time to visit some of the city’s iconic landmarks : Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge. Plus, you can explore some of the city’s parks and gardens.

Holland Park and St James’s Park are really beautiful in summer. You can’t beat the music festivals going on in Hyde Park either. 

The South Bank along the River Thames comes alive with street performers, food markets, and cultural events. Rooftop bars offer panoramic views of the city skyline. And vibrant neighbourhoods like Notting Hill and Shoreditch are full of summer festivals and al fresco dining. 

It really is the perfect time of year to visit London and experience British culture. However, be warned, prices do shoot up during summer. And there’s still always the chance of rain!

✅ Discover the best places to stay in London

16. Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is a gem in the summertime. The captivating blend of dramatic coastlines and emerald-green scenery comes alive and it’s a great time of year to explore.

The Causeway Coast, with its rugged cliffs and the iconic Giant’s Causeway, offers a breathtaking and incredibly photogenic backdrop.

The vibrant city of Belfast buzzes with cultural events and lively festivals, while the Mourne Mountains provide the perfect spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Coastal villages like Ballintoy and Cushendun are completely charming, their harbours and traditional pubs well worth exploring. 

From the enchanting Dark Hedges to the medieval castles like Dunluce Castle, Northern Ireland is the ideal blend of history and natural beauty.

✅ Discover the best place to stay in Northern Ireland

17. The Peak District

Another of England’s most stunning National Parks, the Peak District is a perfect place to explore in the UK in summer. Featuring rolling hills, meandering rivers, and charming stone villages, the Peak District is an enchanting landscape ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Visit the iconic Chatsworth House, nestled amidst manicured gardens. Go for walks along the Monsal Trail or the Tissington Trail, both offering stunning panoramic views of the countryside.

Or, explore quaint market towns like Bakewell and Buxton for a taste of local charm, with historic marketplaces and welcoming pubs.

In the heart of summer, the Peak District is the ideal peaceful escape in the United Kingdom, full of meadows, woods, and craggy peaks, and ideal for those who love the great outdoors .

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Peak District

18. Scottish Highlands

Last but not least, if you want one of the best places for hiking and outdoor adventure, all while exploring one of the most remote parts of the UK, you have to visit the Scottish Highlands .

There’s so much beauty here from the heather-clad hills to the breathtaking clifftop panoramas. You can visit tranquil lochs, such as Loch Ness and Loch Lomond, explore breathtaking isles, and even drive one of the most famous road trips in the UK – the NC500. 

The weather during the summer holidays is certainly the best you’re likely to find in northern Scotland. The air is crisp, and the sun is warm, creating the perfect atmosphere for exploring the outdoors. 

The hiking trails, like those in Glen Coe and the Cairngorms, offer unparalleled views of towering peaks and lush valleys, beckoning adventurers to embrace the untamed beauty. 

As well as natural beauty, you’ll also find ancient castles and ruins dot the landscape, and remote villages like Plockton and Ullapool exude a charm as timeless as the Cotswolds. It’s easily one of the most beautiful places to explore in the UK in summer. You’ll probably fall in love with it.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Scottish Highlands

Final Thoughts on Visiting the UK in Summer

Overall, the UK in summer can give you a bit of everything. You’ll have a much higher chance of good weather. In fact, you’ll find the best weather of the year no matter where you go! Although it’s the UK, so rain is still possible pretty much everywhere!

But, it’s more than ideal for exploring hidden glens, National Parks, hidden beachside coves, beautiful cities, and charming woodlands. The UK is so stunning in summer and I hope this has inspired your perfect getaway.

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• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
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• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
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Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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Visiting the UK in Summer [Everything you need to know]

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 1, 2023

Are you thinking of visiting the UK in Summer? Then this comprehensive guide to the best places to visit and the best festivals, sporting events and festivals to attend in the UK in Summer is perfect for you. 

Summer is a lively and vibrant time in the UK. The country comes alive with festivals and outdoor events and both UK cities and countryside locations are busy with vacationing families. 

The UK will undoubtedly be busy at this time but dealing with crowds will be offset by warm, sunny days with daylight late into balmy summer evenings.

Advantages of visiting UK in Summer

Disadvantages of visiting uk in summer, places to visit in summer, events in summer, sports events in summer, festivals in summer, when is the best time to visit in summer, what is the weather like in summer , how many daylight hours are there in summer, what should i pack for visiting the uk in summer.

The main advantage of visiting the UK in summer is the weather. You will have long, warm light days to maximise your sightseeing. All attractions will be open and many will have extended opening hours. 

You have the chance to attend outdoor events such as sporting fixtures, concerts, theatre plays and festivals. The UK comes alive in summer with locals and tourists alike enjoying al fresco dining and beer gardens in country pubs. 

The main disadvantage of visiting the UK in Summer is the crowds. This is the peak tourist season for international and domestic tourists. 

UK schools will be on their summer break. Schools in Scotland break up in mid-June returning to school in mid-August. Schools in the rest of the UK finish in late July and return at the beginning of September. 

Wherever you visit and whichever form of transport you use, you can expect everywhere and everything to be busy! 

Things to do in the UK in Summer

As so many Scottish attractions are outdoors, the summer is the best time to visit Scotland. You can travel all over Scotland by train visiting iconic outdoor landmarks such as Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Isle of Skye . 

Enjoy a hiking trail in the Scottish Highlands , see The Kelpies , take a boat trip on a Scottish Loch, go whisky tasting in a distillery or explore one of Scotland’s 500 castles . 

Derbyshire is an often overlooked destination in the UK but it offers charming market towns, pretty villages, impressive stately homes and fantastic hiking in the Peak District . 

Base yourself in Bakewell and spend your summer days exploring Chatsworth House, cycling the Monsal Trail, hiking to the top of Mam Tor or along Stanage Edge or going underground in Blue John Cavern in Castleton. 

The Cotswolds

A trip to the Cotswolds is all about getting out of your car and wandering around the picture perfect villages of this area, so summer is an ideal time to visit the Cotswolds. 

Make a stop at Bibury, Upper or Lower Slaughter or the idyllic Bourton on the Water. Enjoy a cream tea in a pub garden, walk the Cotswolds Way or explore Warwick or Sudeley Castles. 

Summer in the UK is a busy time and you will be spoilt for choice as to which event or festival to attend. 

Trooping of the Colour

• Where – London
• When – Saturday in mid-June (17th June 2023)

The Trooping of the Colour marks the official birthday of the British Sovereign. It is usually held on a Saturday in mid-June and has been held annually for over 260 years. If you are visiting the UK in the hope of seeing some pomp and pageantry, this is the event to watch. 

The Trooping of the Colour consists of a parade of around 1400 uniformed soldiers, 400 marching musicians and 200 horses. The parade slowly proceeds from Buckingham Palace along The Mall to Horse Guards Parade. Among the parade are members of the Royal Family riding horses, marching or travelling in cars.

The grand procession is free to watch but you will need to arrive at The Mall early if you want to secure a good viewing spot. After the ceremony on Horse Guards Parade, the procession returns along The Mall to Buckingham Palace where the Royal Family usually come out onto the famous palace balcony to watch a fly past by RAF aircraft.

If you are lucky enough to be in London for the Trooping of the Colour, this historic ceremonial event is not to be missed.

Jane Austen Regency Week

• Where – Alton and Chawton, Hampshire
• When – June

This nine day festival celebrates all things Austen. It takes place in Alton and Chawton in Hampshire where Jane Austen lived and wrote her novels. 

The festival includes book readings, dramatic performances, guided walks, costumed parades, fan picnics and book discussion groups. It is a must for any Jane Austen fan. 

Tickets for Jane Austen Regency Week can be bought online in advance of your visit. 

Stonehenge Summer Solstice

• Where – Stonehenge
• When – June 21st

At sunrise on the 21st June each year, crowds gather at Stonehenge to celebrate the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. 

On this day, the sun rises directly behind the Heel Stone of Stonehenge, the entrance to the stone circle and demonstrates how Stonehenge was designed to align with the summer and winter solstices. 

You do not need a ticket to the solstice, just turn up and join the thousands of other people who trudge to Stonehenge from various car parks in the area. 

Note that the summer solstice is a significant ceremony for some people so there are rules on noise to keep the atmosphere as peaceful as possible. 

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

• Where – Edinburgh
• When – August

This rousing, military themed outdoor show takes place in Edinburgh Castle esplanade with Edinburgh Castle as a spectacular backdrop.

The Tattoo is performed every night for three weeks and consists of marching bands, bagpipers, dancers, military parades from the UK and from around the Commonwealth. The two hour show ends with a fireworks display. It is a hugely enjoyable event which sells out every year. 

Tickets are available in advance online from the Tattoo website. Note that this is an outdoor event with no protection from the weather so make sure you check the weather forecast before you go. 

• When – July

The Wimbledon Tennis Championships are known simply as ‘Wimbledon’ due to its location in the south west London suburb of the same name.

It is the world’s oldest tennis tournament and takes place in the first two weeks of July each year. Wimbledon is a fixture in the British summer calendar when even non tennis fans tune in to watch the action. 

Tickets for Wimbledon are allocated to UK tennis clubs via a lottery system. However, a number of tickets are held back each year for on the day sales. 

To get one of these tickets you must arrive at Wimbledon early in the day and be prepared to queue. In fact, the Wimbledon ticket queue is known as The Queue with some people camping out overnight to secure the best tickets. 

Royal Ascot

• Where – Ascot, Berkshire

Royal Ascot is the most famous event in the UK horseracing calendar. It is held over four days and is as famous for its fashion as it is for its horse racing.

Tickets can be bought online in advance from the Royal Ascot website and vary in price according to where on the racecourse you wish to access. Note that some Royal Ascot days have a strict dress code!  

If you want to see horse racing in a less formal atmosphere, race courses throughout the UK hold race meets during the summer. Many racecourses have a festival-like atmosphere with fun fair rides and music concerts in the evening after the racing has finished. 

• Where – all over the UK
• When – all summer

Cricket is known as the quintessential British summer sport and you will see it played in parks and on village greens throughout the summer. 

International matches (known as Test Cricket) take place each summer in large stadiums around the country so wherever you are you will not be far from a cricket match. 

Cricket stadiums in the UK include Old Trafford in Manchester, Edgbaston in Birmingham, Headingley in Leeds and Trent Bridge in Nottingham as well as the famous home of cricket, The Oval and Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. 

Summer is the season for festivals in the UK. There will be outdoor music festivals up and down the country, plus science, theatre, international themed and ‘green’ festivals.

Well dressing festivals

• Where – Derbyshire
• When – May to September

Well dressing is the tradition of decorating wells and natural springs in towns and villages throughout Derbyshire. 

Large elaborate pictorial scenes are created using only natural materials such as flowers, petals, seeds, beans and moss on a bed of clay. Each well dressing takes a group of volunteers around one week to complete. 

The erection of the well dressing art starts with a blessing ceremony which is usually followed by a village festival or fun fair. 

You can find a list of upcoming well-dressing events on the Peak District website. 

Highland Games

• Where – Scotland
• When – July and August

The Highland Games are a sporting and cultural event held in towns all over Scotland between May and September each year. The majority of the festivals take place in July and August.

The Highland Games showcase a variety of feats of strength games such as tossing the caber, the sheaf toss and the hammer throw. The all day event also includes food, drink and craft stalls plus drumming, Scottish dancing and piping displays and craft and food competitions. 

The largest Highland Games in Scotland are the Cowal Games which are held each August in Dunoon with over 3,500 competitors taking part. Many Highland games finish with an evening music concert or a traditional ceilidh dance. 

Tickets to Highlands Games are very affordable considering the range of attractions on offer and can be purchased from individual town and village games websites, details of which can be found here . 

The Edinburgh Fringe

This music, drama and comedy festival attracts big names and new artists from all over the world as well as tens of thousands of spectators. It is the world’s largest performance arts festival and lasts for three weeks each August. 

Thousands of performance events take place in hundreds of venues across Edinburgh. There is something for all ages and tastes from spoken word performances to stand up comedy to musical theatre to opera. 

Tickets can be bought in advance from the Fringe website . Any spare tickets for shows are sold from the Half Price Hut in Edinburgh city centre  on the day of performances. 

You can expect Edinburgh to be very busy during this time with high accommodation prices but it will have a fantastic festival atmosphere. 

FAQs about the UK in Summer

If you have to choose between June, July or August, choose June before UK schools break up for the summer.  June is a great time to visit England because it is warm but while busy not as crowded as it can be during July and August.

The average daily temperature in June is 18 degrees C / 64 degrees F with an average rainfall of 77 mm. 

July sees an average temperature of 20 degrees C or 67 F with a rainfall of 82 mm. 

August has a pleasant average temperature of 19 degrees C or 67 degrees F with an average rainfall of 94 mm.

There are an average of 17 hours of daylight per day in June and July and just under 16 daylight hours per day in August. 

Most days should have pleasantly warm summer temperatures so you should pack T-shirts, light tops and trousers and open-toed sandals. 

However, due to the unpredictable nature of the UK weather, it would be worth packing a lightweight jumper, a raincoat and a pair of closed-toe shoes or trainers – just in case! 

For more ideas and help planning your perfect UK summer trip, check out our essential step-by-step planning guide here.

• UK in spring
• UK in winter
• UK in autumn
• Scotland in winter
• London in Fall

13 BEST Things to do in England in Summer

Looking for the best things to do in england in summer from glastonbury to visiting beautiful beaches, this is all about summer holidays in england.

Whether you’re looking for fun in the sun, cultural events, or amazing outdoor excursions, England in Summer has it all.

With some of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of the United Kingdom like Newquay , and awesome festivals happening throughout the summer months, such as Glastonbury and Notting Hill Carnival, there’s a lot to love about this time of year.

Personally, I love to get outside and explore during summer. The trails in the national parks might be a bit busier, but the weather conditions are perfect to appreciate all that English natural beauty. And everything is so bright and green!

From the Peak District to the Jurassic Coast to just wandering around cities that I love in beautiful conditions, it’s the ideal time to visit England and see this country in all its glory.

As there are so many summer activities in England to enjoy, I’ve narrowed down my favourites to help shape your next itinerary. Hopefully this blog post will help plan your summer holidays in England!

And if there’s anything I’ve missed, just ask me in the questions below and hopefully I can hep!

England summer weather 

On average, the temperatures in England in summer are anywhere between 15 to 25°C (59° – 77°F). In recent years, we’ve seen a number of heatwaves hitting the mid-30s, but it’s definitely not the norm, and as a nation I’m not sure we’re prepared for those tropical heights!

Famously, UK weather is unreliable. With this in mind, you might find a few showers during the summer months, but nothing too dramatical. Normally, it’s warm, dry, and very pleasant. 

That being said, I would recommend that you bring a decent jacket, especially if you’re hitting the trails. The weather can turn in a moment and you don’t want to be caught out!

Best things to do in England in summer

Check out the beach at newquay.

In my mind, summer in England means just one thing: going to the beach. Fistral Beach at Newquay in Cornwall is one of the best beaches in the country and is super popular. 

The town itself is very much a surf town, with great bars and restaurants full of fresh seafood. Spend your days out on Blue Flag beaches before hitting up the nightlife. 

You can read more about what to do here in our Cornwall travel guide .

Embrace music and culture at Glastonbury

Is there a more iconic music festival in the world than Glastonbury ? Held in the south west of England in June, Glastonbury is the most sought-after festival ticket in the world. 

With past headliners including the Rolling Stones, Beyonce, Arctic Monkeys and Elton John, and the legend slot including Diana Ross, Dolly Parton, Lionel Richie, and more, it’s a summer event that’s on a lot of bucket lists. 

Honestly, I can’t rave about this festival enough. It is definitely one of my happy places that’s for sure.

Explore the vineyards of the South East

Now, English wine might not be super famous yet, but I really think it’s coming up fast. In the south east of England, especially in Sussex and Kent, you’ll find a ton of great vineyards .

Predominantly specialising in white and sparkling wines, it’s the most refreshing way to enjoy England in summer. Head to a tasting, take a tour of the vineyard, and grab a few bottles for the road.

Dive into history at Alnwick Castle

England has plenty of beautiful castles, but Alnwick Castle in the north east is stunning. With summer activities that include longbow demonstrations and opportunities to use crossbows, it’s a really fun and educational day out.

If the place looks familiar, it might be because a lot of the Harry Potter films were actually filmed on the grounds of Alnwick Castle, so you can live out all your Hogwarts fantasies. It’s a great place to spend a summer day due to the expansive grounds where kiddos can roam and explore. 

You can discover some of the best things to do in Alnwick here!

Enjoy Big Screen on the Beach in Brighton

If you love spending your time watching movies but don’t want to waste your summer holiday inside, you need to check out the Big Screen on the Beach in Brighton. 

Located on Brighton’s iconic beachfront, this summer activity involves a giant outdoor cinema experience. With past films including family favourites, cult classics, and Oscar winners, there’s a little something for everyone. Remember to bring plenty of popcorn!

Feel cultured at Henley Royal Regatta

Want to feel quintessentially English during your summer trip? Get yourself a ticket to the famous Henley Royal Regatta and make sure you dress accordingly. It’s a royal event for a reason! 

This famous rowing regatta brings together the very best schools and teams from all around the world over the course of a few days. Held at the start of the summer, it’s a great way to kick off the season. The Pimms and champagne are definitely flowing, so come prepared!

Check out Notting Hill Carnival

If you’re in London on August Bank Holiday weekend, you’re definitely going to want to check out the party vibe of Notting Hill Carnival . This legendary Caribbean festival has been happening every year since 1966 and it’s amazing. 

The streets are full of parades, music, dancing, and huge carnival costumes with feathers and headdresses – it’s amazing. And don’t even get me started on the food and drink! Delicious curries, plantain fries, and plenty of rum punch that helps get the party going! 

Get your thrills at Blackpool Pleasure Beach

One of the best summer activities in England is to load the family into the car and head up to Blackpool Pleasure Beach . This north west theme park is a huge family favourite and is full of rides and amusements. 

The Blackpool area is popular in the summertime due to its beachfront, promenade, arcades, and general summer tourism vibe. There are also plenty of events and shows on throughout the summer, so check out what’s on before you travel. Don’t forget to get plenty of Blackpool rock to take home!

Hike the Pennine Way 

I absolutely love hiking in England in the summer months. Although the trails tend to get a bit busier, it’s worth the trade-off for clear views and great weather. One of my favourite hikes is along the Pennine Way in the Peak District .

Although the Pennine Way spans most of the country, you can easily go on a day hike anywhere along this ancient trail. See waterfalls, valleys, English wildlife, and more!

I’d recommend a day hike around the Edale area, this way you can hike to Kinder Scout, the highest point in the Peak District!

Paddleboard in the Lake District National Park

If hitting the water is more your thing, I’d definitely recommend heading up to the Lake District National Park . As the name suggests, the area is full of exquisite lakes, perfect for exploring by boat or by paddleboard.

You can easily hire paddleboards and kayaks from many of the towns around the lakes such as Windermere, Keswick, or Ambleside. It’s a super outdoorsy area, so if you need a lesson, this is the place to get one.

You can even join day tours, paddle around the area, learning about the landscape and history of the national park.

Go punting on the River Cam

Sticking with the watery theme, if you’re in the stunning city of Cambridge, there’s a tradition that you need to try. Punting on the River Cam is like taking a gondola ride in Venice, and it’s a great way to see the city in summer.

As many students have left for the holidays, it’s pretty easy to turn up and get on a tour, or self-hire a punting boat and go off on your own little adventure! I have to say, bring a camera because these things might look easy to manoeuvre, but it definitely takes some time to get used to!

Get Centre Court ready at Wimbledon

If you’re into tennis, there’s only one place you need to be in summer and that’s in SW19, otherwise known as Wimbledon . As one of the four tennis Grand Slams, this historic tennis tournament brings all the big names from across the world.

There are a few ways to get tickets, including the iconic queue that winds around Wimbledon Common, and ground passes start at just £30 so if you can get tickets, it can be a cost-effective way to see some legendary sports stars. 

Check out the views across the Jurassic Coast

Want to check out some of the best coastal hiking in the UK? Head down to the Jurassic Coast. With mighty cliff faces looking out over the water and both multi-day and single-day hike itineraries available, it’s a beautiful part of the country. 

If you’re interested in archaeology and fossils, this area, as the name suggests, is famous for them. As you walk, you’ll be able to spot different rock formations and fossils that indicate just how ancient this landscape is!

So, if you’re looking for some amazing things to do in England in summer, there you have it! What are your favourite things to do in the summer months in England? Let me know in the comments below and I’ll make sure to check them out!

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

Feb 26, 2024 • 10 min read

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

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

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

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

1. The Seven Sisters 

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

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

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

3. Cambridge

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

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

5. Hadrian’s Wall

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

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

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

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

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

7. The Peak District

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

8. Brighton

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

9. Stonehenge

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

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

10. Stratford-upon-Avon

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

11. Liverpool

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

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

12. The Cotswolds

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

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

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

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

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

14. The Lake District

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

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

15. The Eden Project

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

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

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

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

This article was first published Apr 13, 2021 and updated Feb 26, 2024.

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 11 Places to Visit in the UK in Summer

Today I want to bring you A Lady in London’s guide to the best places to visit in the UK in summer. Whether you go this summer or in a future year, these British destinations are perfect spots to soak up the season in the warmer months.

Visiting the UK in Summer

One of the best things about visiting the UK in summer is that the weather is at its best. The prospect of warm weather (or as warm as it gets in Britain) and long daylight hours is a big draw.

That said, the British weather is unpredictable at the best of times, so make sure to come prepared. If you have the right clothes, you’ll be set, rain or shine. My summer packing list can help.

Places to Visit in the UK in Summer

I’ve drawn up my list of places to visit in the UK in summer from my personal experiences. I’ve traveled to all these places in the warmer months and can personally attest to how much I enjoyed them.

If you go to any or all of them, I hope you’ll love them as much as I have.

1. Scottish Hebrides

First on my list is the Scottish Hebrides. These islands off the west coast of Scotland are not only some of the most beautiful places in the UK , but also some of the best for getting away from the summer crowds.

I’ve taken two sailing trips in the Inner Hebrides, and both took me to islands that most visitors don’t get to. That means that even in peak summer season you can feel like you have the islands all to yourself.

My week sailing in the Scottish Hebrides took me everywhere from Mull to Iona, Lunga, Coll, and Ulva. It was magical to see all the puffins and other wildlife with nobody else around.

My 7 days sailing in the Scottish Hebrides took me to Rum, Muck, Canna, and a secluded loch on the Isle of Skye. It even brought me to Inverie on the Knoydart Peninsula, which is often considered the most remote place in the UK .

If you want more inspiration, you can watch my Scottish Hebrides video to see all the places I went on my first trip.

2. Isles of Scilly

Next on my list of places to visit in the UK in summer are the Isles of Scilly . These islands off the southwest coast of Cornwall are some of the most beautiful places in England .

This archipelago is a treasure trove of natural and human-made wonders alike. From stunning beaches to colorful harbors, it’s a great place to get into nature.

From the Tresco Abbey Garden with its plant species from five continents and enchanted ruined arches to the coastal walking paths and great local seafood, there’s a lot to love about this part of England.

Summer is the perfect time to visit the Isles of Scilly to enjoy the long days, beautiful light, and outdoor activities the islands offer.

Sark is another of the best places to visit in the UK in summer. Located in the Channel Islands off the coast of Normandy in France, it feels like another world.

With no cars on the island and a feudal past that reached well into the modern era, visiting Sark feels like stepping back in time.

Renting bicycles and cycling to beaches, gardens, and other local highlights is one of the top things to do in Sark .

As is eating. The seafood on the island is some of the best I’ve had on my travels, and eating fresh lobster and scallops here is a must.

Summer is a great time to visit Sark because the days are long and the weather fine for cycling, walking, and water activities. It’s also great because it’s easy to take a day trip to Guernsey to see more of the Channel Islands.

4. North Berwick

Back up in Scotland, North Berwick is one of my favorite places to visit in the UK in summer. This coastal gem near Edinburgh has a great mix of beach and town, not to mention a hill with spectacular views.

North Berwick is home to wide sandy stretches that run up and down the coast. Behind them are pretty streets packed with great shops, cafes, and restaurants. Colorful houses round out the scene, and it’s a photographer’s dream.

Berwick Law sits above the town and is a great hill for a hike. The views from the top reveal everything from the Isle of May to the Firth of Forth in the distance.

North Berwick is a great place to visit in summer because it comes alive with seaside fun.

Getting fish and chips from a beachfront vendor and enjoying an al fresco lunch on the water is the perfect way to enjoy an afternoon in the warmer months.

5. Northumberland Coast

Just over the border in the north of England, Northumberland is one of the most underrated places in Britain and one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer.

The coast in Northumberland is littered with castles, packed with beaches, and full of great seafood restaurants.

From Bamburgh Castle to Dunstanburgh Castle, there are fortresses to delight any history lover. And just inland is Alnwick, home to one of the most famous castles in England .

Craster is renowned for its kippers, Berwick-upon-Tweed for its bridges, the Farne Islands for their wildlife, and Holy Island for its hilltop Lindisfarne Castle.

If you want to explore this area, you can follow my Northumberland itinerary to see the highlights.

6. Llandudno

On the Welsh coast, Llandudno is another of the great places to visit in the UK in summer. This seaside town in North Wales has everything from a historic pier to fish and chips and beaches galore.

Llandudno is famous for its Victorian architecture, which graces the town with eye-catching architectural details and the longest pleasure pier in Wales.

It’s also home to the Great Orme, a hill packed with hiking trails and activities for adventure enthusiasts. There are great views of the town and coast from the top, too.

And speaking of the coast, Llandudno is the ideal place to visit in the summer because it has beaches on multiple sides. From north to west, there’s beautiful coastline to enjoy. Some of it comes complete with views of Anglesey , too.

7. Isle of Wight

Down south, the Isle of Wight is one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer for a number of reasons. Not only is it a great place for sailing and sunbathing, but also full of royal residences and a coastal path.

The Isle of Wight is famous for being home to Osborne House, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s family home. Not only is the house impressive to see, but the gardens, grounds, and beach are also perfect for exploring in the summer months.

The Isle of Wight Coastal Path is also great for country walks on long, warm days. This circular long-distance footpath runs for 70 miles (113 kilometers) around the perimeter and is a great way to see one of the best islands in the UK on foot.

If you like a good regatta, you can visit during Cowes Week on the Isle of Wight . This regatta takes place over eight days in August and is a great reason to visit the island in summer.

8. Brighton

Down on the south coast, Brighton is one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer. This city is famous for its history as a center of hedonism, its pebble beaches, and its pleasure pier.

Given its reputation as a seaside resort, Brighton comes into its own in the warmer months. The beaches are perfect on sunny afternoons, and it’s fun to walk out on the pier and take in the views from the end.

But it’s not just seaside in Brighton. The Lanes and North Laine are great areas for shopping. They have lots of independent shops and are colorful places to wander in their own right.

Not far from them, my favorite place in Brighton is the Royal Pavilion. This pleasure palace was built by King George IV when he was Prince Regent.

Its opulence and over-the-top grandeur are awe-inspiring both inside and out, and it’s a fun place to visit to see royal Brighton .

9. Cornwall

For those that want less opulence and more coast, Cornwall is the perfect place to go in the UK in summer. Jutting out into the sea, this is just the part of England to indulge your inner water lover, walker, or foodie.

From St Ives with its artistic scene to Newquay with its surfing, there are a lot of great places to stay in Cornwall.

History lovers will adore St Michael’s Mount, the tidal island with a castle on top. Those who are passionate about the environment will enjoy visiting the Eden Project, which features huge biomes filled with plants from all over the world.

And that’s to say nothing of walkers, who will have no shortage of options for coastal walks and inland rambles.

One of the best is The South West Coast Path, England’s longest long-distance footpath. Running for 630 miles (1,014 kilometers) from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset , it hugs the entire coast of Cornwall.

With all the outdoor activities on offer, summer is the perfect time to travel to Cornwall.

10. Scottish Borders

Back up in Scotland, the Scottish Borders are great places to visit in the UK in summer.

This underrated area just south of Edinburgh is the perfect place to escape the summer crowds and take in a part of Britain most visitors (and Brits, for that matter) never see.

The Borders are packed with stately homes, castles, abbey ruins, seaside towns, walking paths, and other attractions. There are days out in the Scottish Borders for every taste and interest.

From Sir Walter Scott’s Abbotsford House to Melrose Abbey and Floors Castle, there’s no shortage of historic landmarks and stunning homes to get excited about.

For lovers of the outdoors, the Borders have everything from the coastal walking path to the lighthouse at St Abb’s Head to some of the best places to see heather in Scotland in summer.

And that’s to say nothing of pretty towns and villages. Kelso is a gem with its stunning abbey ruins and pretty shops.

St Boswells is a favorite for the Mainstreet Trading Company, which has everything from a bookshop to a deli and home goods store. And St Abbs is beautiful with its colorful fishing boats and delicious seafood.

As much as the Scottish Borders make for a great summer getaway, it’s also convenient that they’re close to Edinburgh.

When the Edinburgh August festivals heat up in the Scottish capital, it’s easy to take a day trip to Edinburgh to see a show and take in the scene.

I couldn’t make a list of the best places to visit in the UK in summer without including London.

The UK capital is one of my favorite places to be in the warmer months, not least because the city comes alive when the weather warms up and the daylight goes on forever.

Summer in London is packed with activities, events, festivals, and fun. Everything from riverside pubs to rooftop bars livens up the city, and the parks and summer gardens are great picnic spots .

Sure, there are crowds. But there are plenty of places to escape them if you know where to go. From summer walks in local neighborhoods to big green spaces like Hampstead Heath , there are places to find peace in the city in summer.

Best Places to Visit in the UK in Summer

I hope my list of the best places to visit in the UK in summer has inspired you to get out and see more of the country in the warmer months.

I’ve enjoyed my visits to every place on this list, and I’m guessing you will as well. Happy travels!

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Discover hundreds of summer activities and ideas for summer holidays and staycations in England. Rediscover your favourite cities, go in search of dolphins along the coast, let loose at a festival and finish off with a tall glass of something cool in a quaint country pub. 

In this section

Things to do in summer

See cities in a new light

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Plan a trip to a vineyard

Sample top notch plonk in dreamy countryside locations this summer.

Step into secret gardens

Switch off in sweet scented rose gardens and bird spot in ancient woodlands.

7 lavender fields to visit

Get lost in fields of purple and indigo on a relaxing day trip to a lavender farm.

Find family breaks

Add these child-friendly activities and places to your holiday list.

Look for beach breaks

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Where to pick your own fruit

Get your hands on fresh produce on a wholesome day out in the countryside.

Cycle your way through summer

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Explore England's National Parks

Let loose and go wild in England's 10 National Parks.

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Best things to do in the UK during summer

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written by Annie Warren

updated 15.03.2024

Find your great escape a bit closer to home and make the most of your staycation this summer, with our enticing round-up of the best things to do in the UK during summer.

1. Immerse yourself in history

2. get lost in nature, 3. encounter the local wildlife, 4. stretch your legs, 5. brave the water, 6. sample british grapes, 7. stuff yourself with seafood, 8. take the train - one of the unique things to do in the uk during summer, 9. hit up music festivals, 10. have a family day off, 11. catch some sun.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for travelling the world.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Ireland, created by local experts

11 days  / from 1926 USD

Fascinating Ireland & North Ireland

Ireland is one of the most popular destinations for tourists: its rich cultural heritage, the beautiful landscapes and the laid-back lifestyle attract many travelers. Visit the famous Giant's causeway, fascinating Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry and many more highlights.

8 days  / from 725 USD

Spectacular Ireland

This itinerary will give you a chance to discover the most spectacular places in Ireland within eight days. Visit the Killarney National Park and the South West Coast of Ireland. Travel back in time during your visit on the Aran Islands and cross the region of Connemara.

6 days  / from 486 USD

Game of Thrones – Northern Ireland

The Seven Kingdoms await you in this Game of Thrones adventure. The incredible landscapes of Northern Ireland make up an enchanting array of fortresses, heart-stopping cliffs and countless small villages steeped in history. A trip to the universe of Game of Thrones is about to begin!

One of the best things to do in the UK during summer for history buffs is a visit to Warwick Castle. This massive medieval fortress has lavish royal chambers and a tower plucked straight from a fairy tale, set against 690 acres of immaculate gardens.

Venture underground to the dungeon and torture chamber if you dare, brought to life by devilish actors – not to mention gallons of fake blood.

Considerably less gory is the Beamish open-air museum in County Durham , which showcases the years between 1825 and 1913 with painstakingly re-created streets and costumed guides driving the steam trains and serving in the sweet shop.

Changing tack again, the Birmingham back-to-backs have been carefully restored to give a fascinating insight into the industrial boom that gripped the city in the nineteenth century. Here, a guided tour wends its way through four homes full of anecdotal titbits about the inhabitants of these hastily-erected, overcrowded dwellings.

Explore the historical heritage is one of the best to do in the UK during summer /Shutterstock

You could spend hours wandering Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire . Here you can stroll the excavated Tudor cloisters and luxuriate in the zen-like calm of the hothouse, constructed from an ancient courtyard shrouded in glass and housing magnolias, orchids and palms that reach the roof.

Meanwhile, few places in Britain juxtapose so well the destructive impulses of man and the enduring richness of nature as Orford Ness Nature Reserve in Suffolk. This park was once used to conceal Britain’s darkest military secrets. Yet amid the dystopic landscape of marshes and the huddle of abandoned buildings that flank the airfield, nature thrives undisturbed. The reserve now fulfils a crucial conservation role.

For sheer otherworldliness, though, the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland with its 37,000 black basalt columns is unrivalled, each polygon the result of a subterranean explosion some sixty million years ago. This incredible scene attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, meaning the site can get crushingly busy. You'd do well to visit as early (or as late) in the day as you can.

This tailor-made trip to Scotland's wildest natural scenery is a breath of fresh air and perfect to explore the most enchanting landscapes of the Highlands. This trip will introduce you to the wildest landscapes of Scotland, its fast-paced history and its amazing traditions.

Pyg track leading to the Snowdon summit © Tamas Beck/Shutterstock

For a brush with creatures great and small, take a boat tour around the craggy archipelago of the Farne Islands. You’ll hear it before you see it. The cacophonous din of the 100,000 seabirds that nest here each year, whose ranks include puffins, guillemots, cormorants, shags and oystercatchers.

Another brilliant place from which to spot some animal antics is the ingeniously concealed hide at Devon Badger Watch. Here you'll be offered a rare chance to observe these reclusive mammals as they play. The woodland is home to woodmice, woodpeckers and tawny owls, so keep your eyes peeled!

For beasts of more exotic nature, the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust uses Jersey Zoo to provide a window into its global conservation work. The trust showcases some of the planet’s most at-risk species in habitats ranging from Madagascan dry forest to the Discovery Desert.

Atlantic Puffin, Fratercula arctica, Skomer Island, Pembrokeshire, West Wales © Shutterstock

The opportunities for walking in the UK are endless! Head to Malham in the Yorkshire Dales . Here you can amble through the wooded dell of Janet’s Foss, rich with the scent of wild garlic, to Gordale Scar, a deep ravine that requires a head for heights.

If you’re feeling energetic, one of the best things to do in the UK during summer is to clamber up to Malham Cove. Here you will be rewarded with magnificent views over the Dales. A further squelchy trek across the moorland beyond leads to England’s highest lake, Malham Tarn.

Another climb that is well worth the effort is the ice-age relic of Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh . The vistas from up here are intoxicating, arcing across Edinburgh’s genteel cobbles and the Forth estuary to Fife.

Less of a scramble but no less scenic is the Cotswold Way National Trail, dotted with a string of chocolate box villages and towns . The Trail makes for a gentle countryside walk with scenic picnic spots and plenty of pubs.

Visit two traditional capitals, London and Edinburgh, and enjoy a trek through the Loch Lomond national park. This tailor-made walking trip will let you discover peaceful Scottish islands on foot, with several days of detailed walking tours included.

Cityscape of Edinburgh Arthur's Seat © S-F/Shutterstock

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The timeless landscape of the Norfolk Broads is the perfect place to mess about in a boat. You don’t need any experience – at least if you opt for an engine rather than a sail. Or better yet, get out in a canoe and explore the smaller waterways. If you’d prefer to be in the water rather than on it, tarn-swimming in Snowdonia National Park might be for you; tarns are blue-green glacial lakes formed over 10,000 years ago.

It’s not just the cold water that’s breathtaking – hiking through the mountainscape is truly remarkable. However, be aware that access to isolated spots can require hours of walking on unmarked tracks.

City-dwellers will be pleased to know that there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor dips closer to home. The cherished British tradition of the lido has seen a resurgence, with faded Art Deco and modest community pools alike reopening up and down the country.

London is awash with charming swimming holes including those in Charlton, Brockwell and Parliament Hill, while outside the capital some of the most spectacular urban lidos are found in Cheltenham, Bristol and Plymouth.

A steam train passes the Settle to Carlisle railway north of Ribble Junction © Karl Weller/Shutterstock

Looking for more relaxed things to do in the UK during summer? The UK may not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of wine tasting, but in fact, the country now produces wines to rival even the most established competitors. There are over four hundred vineyards in England, many of which are open for tours and tastings.

The best of the bunch includes Kent’s oldest commercial vineyard at Biddenden, a family-run concern producing wines from ten varieties of grape. Also of note is Camel Valley in Cornwall, set up by an ex-RAF pilot and his wife. Meander through the vineyards, join a tour around neat rows of beautifully pruned vines, take part in a tasting or sit on the terrace and sip at your leisure. Roll over Bordeaux, it’s time to celebrate the English grape!

It’s never too late to develop a taste for seafood, and what better place than at the Oyster Festival in Whitstable this August? As well as bivalves you can expect to find a giant food fair, impromptu performance art, and a crab-catching competition for the kids. Or try to win the local oyster-eating contest, where iron-stomached participants race to down four oysters and half a pint of stout.

If that all sounds a bit raucous, there remain few places more idyllic than the quay at Padstow to tuck into a mountainous portion of fish and chips.

With the ocean so close, it’s little surprise that seafood is the speciality in this Cornish town. In fact, your fish might have been caught just hours before by the boats in view.

One of the best things to do in the UK during summer is to indulge in some delicious local seafood © Shutterstock

Step back in time at the Bluebell Railway in Sussex, which has one of the finest collections of vintage steam locomotives and carriages still in service. Treat yourself to the luxuries of a bygone era in the burnished lounge car of First Class. Or, enjoy the Railway’s annual calendar of platform Punch and Judy shows, Victorian picnics, brass bands and food festivals.

Another option for locomotive lovers is England’s most scenic railway, the Settle to Carlisle line, which runs from the Yorkshire Dales almost to the Irish Sea via the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct. You’ll feel like you’re flying as rivers and roads meander far below.

In stark contrast with the shining beauty of the countryside is the grim history of the railway, which was built by an army of six thousand navvies. Many were killed by accident, disease or exposure, and were buried along the route in unmarked graves.

Strathspey Railway in Scotland © Shutterstock

Music lovers will be stunned by the number of things to do in the UK during summer.

Glastonbury 's unrivalled festival has delighted audiences for decades and is the largest and most well-organised festival in England . Much more than just a music festival, large parts of the sprawling site are given over to themed “lifestyle” areas. Bands cover all musical spectrums, from up-and-coming indie groups to international superstars. Recent headliners have included the Foo Fighters, Radiohead and Ed Sheeran.

Classical music lovers will be interested in visiting Montgomeryshire in Wales . Here in the town of Newton, Gregynog Hall hosts the annual Gregynog Music Festival. This is a high-class feast of classical music.

And if your summer travel itinerary includes a visit to Scotland , don't miss the Mull of Kintyre Music Festival , which pulls in some big-name rock bands, plus some good traditional Irish and Scottish ones.

Tents on the Glastonbury music festival campsite © Shutterstock

Sometimes when travelling with children, it's hard to think of something for all the family to enjoy. Luckily, there are plenty of things to do in the UK during summer for family fun .

For example, Preseli Venture in Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire. The enthusiastic team at this outdoor adventure experience have cooked up one of the best family day trips in the UK. And what's better is that is all about getting active, getting wet and getting fully immersed in the natural environment.

Children and adults alike will thoroughly enjoy visiting the Shambala Festival . Pitch your tent, pull on some wellies, don a pair of fluorescent tights, a set of wings and some facial hair, and you're all set for four days of unabashed wackiness at Britain's most family-friendly festival.

Set in a secret location and with a line-up of undisclosed musical acts, Shambala remains small in scale and retains an inclusive ethos that embraces both families and serious partiers. It remains free of corporate sponsorship, and strongly ecologically sound.

Whitesands Bay, Nr St David's, Pembrokeshire, Wales © Peter Moulton/Shutterstock

Although the UK is not renowned for its regularly hot summers, there are a solid amount of sunny days — perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying a variety of outdoor activities.

If you're in search of a beach holiday, one of the best things to do in the UK during the summer is to visit one of the famous coastal destinations. Cornwall , Devon , and Brighton all offer stunning sandy beaches, scenic walks and a variety of water activities.

London , Edinburgh and Glasgow are each in their own right famous for their green parks and gardens. Here, you can take leisurely strolls in the sunshine and have a picnic afterwards.

For a combination of activities and enjoying the warm summer weather, head to one of Britain's beautiful national parks. The Lake District, Snowdonia , the Peak District and Scottish Highlands are just a few examples of the region's spectacular national parks. You can go camping , cycling or just find somewhere to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Brighton's Pavilion © Shutterstock

When you're ready to start planning your summer holiday trip in the UK, the fantastic Rough Guides UK Staycations guidebook series is the perfect place to start.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be .

We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image: St Michael's Mount in Cornwall © Valery Egorov/Shutterstock

Annie Warren is a Midlands-based writer, translator and editor at Rough Guides. Other than the UK, she specialises in writing about France, Italy and Austria. You can find her on Twitter as @notanniewarren or see more of her work at www.annie-warren.com .

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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.

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Sunset over Loch Lomond, near Glasgow / Image: Adobe Stock

These are the best places to visit in the UK this summer

From rolling downland to secret coves, atmospheric alfresco drinking spots and ancient sites, these are the best places to visit near easyJet airports when the season turns

• United Kingdom
• Art & Culture

Words by Tom Howells

Well, we say these are the best, but actually the UK is chock FULL of wizard stuff. For a start, why not check out our list of  the most remote places to visit in the UK if you don't know how to interact with humans anymore .

Want some solitude but not 'that' much solitude? Here are 10 of the UK's best lesser-known beaches .   

The UK capital is a grand summer city, with its provision of sun-dappled parklands dotted with languid swimming ponds (Hampstead Heath), gangs of deer (Richmond Park) and lazy-day picnic appeal (all of ‘em, really). But its airports are also in striking distance of some of England’s most bucolic sweeps: Gatwick lies just north of the rolling South Downs, as well as offering easy access to the Kent and Sussex coast’s dreamy towns (Whitstable, Margate, Deal, Hastings et al); while arrivals to Luton should make straight for the placid Fens and painterly, old-world countryside of Cambridgeshire and Suffolk.

Fly to Gatwick  or Luton

Auld Reekie is radiant all year round, but it really comes into its own in the temperate summer months. For full panoramic appeal, the trudge from Holyrood Park up the dormant volcano (and formative spot in the history of geology) of Arthur’s Seat is almost obligatory. Those after a less strenuous amble should make for the waterside at Leith: a regenerated docklands area in the north of Edinburgh which is now home to the hip Port of Leith distillery, a smattering of ace bars and the best of the city’s ascendent food scene (feted spots like the Kitchin and the Little Chartroom included).

Fly to Edinburgh

With its sublime beaches, swathes of picture-perfect countryside and enviable collection of lip-smackingly good pubs and restaurants, this bucolic island in the centre of the Irish Sea, just an hour's flight from all major UK airports, is geared up to steal your heart this summer. The island is renowned for its seasonal calendar of events, which includes the Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival on the 18-19 September. This year's belt-busting celebration of Manx produce will showcase over 60 local producers via street food-style celebrations, live cookery theatres and kids' discover zones. New to the diary this year, the inaugural Bushy's Feel Good Festival will take place over August Bank Holiday, with live music, fitness classes, axe throwing and more promising a joyous celebration on summer's big weekend.

Fly to Isle of Man

One of Europe’s most culturally thrilling cities, Glasgow is also an amazing jumping-off point for exploring Scotland’s green regions. Suck up some fresh summer air in while bagging a Munro in the the Trossachs – there are 21 hills over 3,000ft dotted across this wonderful national park, which is less than an hour’s drive out of Glasgow. When you’ve worked up a vertiginous sweat, cool off with a wild swim in shining Loch Lomond below. Then head back to town and hit up one of the city’s many blissed-out beer gardens – at the Barras Art and Design Centre in Calton, or the Belgian mews bar Brel in Ashton Lane –  for the full alfresco experience.

Fly to Glasgow

After some sun, sea and surfing this summer? Cornwall’s Newquay is your boy. It's considered one of the UK’s archetypal family resorts, given its abundance of B&Bs, holiday parks, fine beaches, sea safaris, golf courses and walking along the beautiful South West Coast Path. It’s also well placed on one of Cornwall’s most engaging coastal stretches: 30 minutes' drive to the north is the buzzing port town of Padstow (the Rick Stein capital of the world), with the rarefied village of Rock directly across the River Camel and the surfer’s nirvana of Polzeath a little further round the cape.

Fly to Newquay

The much underrated Northern Irish capital is especially dreamy in the summer months, and throngs with alfresco revellers at serene outdoor spaces like CS Lewis Square (with its seven The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe  bronzes), Belfast City Hall and the Botanical Garden. When you’re done with those, drag your boots on and head into the hills above the city – and especially to the Divis and Black Mountains, peaks set in heathland bog and grassland offering spectacular summit views of Scotland, Wales, the Isle of Man, Cumbria and more.

Fly to Belfast

Windswept bays, crystalline waters, fascinating historical sites and a compact footprint that means you can drive across it in 30 minutes? Not for nothing is the Channel Island of Jersey a perfect summer getaway. Its ridiculous natural beauty means that merely ambling the coastline and hitting those beaches – Plemont, St Brelades and St Ouen, with its tip-top café and surf school, are all blissful – could fill a week. But there are also ancient marvels to be found in the island’s neolithic ruins and La Hougue Bie – a passage grave topped by a medieval chapel; there's endless foodie appeal in its profusion of ace eateries, from high-end seasonal spots (like No 10 in the town of St Helier) to low-key seaside shacks.

Fly to Jersey

When the season turns and the nights push out, the streets of Manchester come alive. This is particularly apparent during the King Street Festival – a weekend shindig celebrating the city’s historic thoroughfare – and the garand parade on Manchester Day (both in June); you’ll meet equally friendly throngs in the alfresco areas of its fine watering holes, like the dinky garden at the Northern Quarter’s Bay Horse, outside the venerable Home theatre on Tony Wilson Square, or on the enormo-terrace of Castlefield’s Dukes 92. Sundowners all round.

Fly to Manchester

Bournemouth

Tripadvisor’s recent 2021 Travellers Awards ranked Bournemouth beach as the fifth best in Europe (and 25th in the entire world). It’s easy to see why: there are miles of aureate sands, a natty pier, myriad cafés and restaurants and a nifty oceanarium. If the urban appeal wanes, head west out of town to the National Trust-managed zone of Studland Bay: an infinitely wilder promontory of rugged beaches, lush heathland and a truly top-drawer hotel-restaurant in The Pig. On the way back, make a beeline for Brownsea Island, home to a colony of super-cute (and ultra-rare) red squirrels and the inspiration for the Famous Five’s ‘Whispering Island’. Capital stuff.

Fly to Bournemouth

Aberdeen (for the Cairngorms)

“Summer on the high plateau can be delectable as honey; it can also be a roaring scourge. To those who love the place, both are good, since both are part of its essential nature.” So wrote Nan Shepherd in The Living Mountain , her lyrical treatise on Scotland’s Cairngorms range. This beatifically stunning, heath-and-moss-coloured region is easily accessible from the coastal city of Aberdeen to the east, and offers a plethora of perfect fine-weather activity, from full-bore mountain hiking,to rafting and swimming in Lochs Inch and Morlich, and more family-oriented hijinks at Aviemore’s Treezone ‘aerial adventure’ park. Delectable indeed.

Fly to Aberdeen

Southampton (for the Isle of Wight)

Just 20 minutes by catamaran from the sprawling port of Southampton, the Isle of Wight might be the UK’s finest summertime bolthole. The southeast coast’s archaic seaside resorts are all well and good, but the real charm is found in the wilder West Wight, with its tumbling downlands, sleepy creeks, brilliantly unspoilt beaches and fossil-filled cliffs. The island’s food and drink scene – long stuck in the 1980s – is finally on the up, too: both the alfresco, seasonal European spot The Terrace (in the dinky port of Yarmouth) and boujis bistro The Hut (round the coast on the beach in Colwell) are worth the ferry fare alone.

Fly to Southampton

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Visiting England in the Summer: 25 Best Things to Do in 2024

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.

I’m a Brit, living in the UK, and I LOVE England in the summer months! Strawberries and cream, the gentle thwack of cricket balls on village greens, and long, light days. If you’re looking for inspiration for what to do in England in the summer, I’ve got you covered!

England is a perfect destination with a little bit of everything.

From quaint countryside villages to bustling city centres, UNESCO World Heritage sites , glorious national parks, stunning coastlines, and beautiful beaches, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in England in the summertime.

Best Things to Do in England in the Summer

Grab your sunglasses and sense of adventure, and let’s delve into the allure of this charming country during its most magical season.

Explore Central London

Are you ready to spend sunny days exploring one of the world’s most vibrant and exciting cities?

England’s largest city can be dreary and rainy at certain times of the year. But fear not! Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to discover everything this incredible city offers.

1. Take a London Guided Tour

Take advantage of the balmy England summer temperatures to enjoy a great London tour:

➡️ see the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace

➡️ tour the city in a Vintage open-top bus!

Related Post: Is London Worth Visiting?

2. Sip Cocktails in a Rooftop Bar

Nothing says “summer in the city,” like sipping cocktails while taking panoramic views of London’s skyline.

Personal favourites include the Madison Rooftop Bar near the magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral and Queen of Hoxton in buzzing Shoreditch.

3. Take a Leisurely Cycle Ride

If you’re feeling adventurous (or want to work off those cocktails), why not rent a bike and cycle along the Thames? The Cycle Superhighway runs from Battersea to Tower Bridge and offers stunning views of London’s most iconic landmarks.

➡️ Check out the best London cycle tours here!

4. Get the Taste of London

Summer is the prime time to visit street food markets in London. From Borough Market to Camden Lock Market , there are endless options for sampling international cuisine.

And don’t forget about ice cream – head to Milk Train for some seriously Instagram-worthy soft-serve sweet treats. England in the summer is always better with ice cream!

5. Escape the Sun

The British Museum is a great place to cool down and explore on a hot day if you’re a history lover (or escape the elements if there’s a spot of bad weather).

Discover artefacts from around the world, a splendid library and the most incredible, Instagrammable ceiling.

England’s capital city is a treat to visit any time of year. The long lazy summer days are made for exploring London’s outdoor attractions.

Top Tip : Remember your comfortable walking shoes or sandals!

6. Get Walking

Make the most of the sunny weather and take a guided walking tour to see iconic London landmarks.  This tour of the Westminster area  includes  Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament  (including  Big Ben),  and   a visit to the impressive  Churchill War Rooms.

You may also enjoy a stroll through  Hyde Park , along the  Thames River , or a sightseeing tour in an open-top double-decker bus is more your style. It’s certainly a chance to rest your legs!

7. Laze in a London Park

Few things are more enjoyable on a sunny day than lounging in one of London’s many green spaces. Hyde Park is an obvious choice – it’s vast and picturesque – but if you’re looking for something less touristy, try Victoria Park or Clissold Park .

Discover Charming English Towns and Cities

Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of big cities? Do you crave a slower pace with a touch of charm and history? If you’re in England in the summer, look no further than its charming towns and cities.

This UNESCO -listed city is famed as one of the treasures of Britain for its elegant Georgian architecture and Roman baths . Potter around the quaint streets lined with shops, cafes, and pubs and catch a performance at the Theatre Royal.

Stroll through the perfectly manicured gardens at Prior Park or indulge in some retail therapy at the independent shops on Walcot Street.

Don’t Miss: The famous Royal Crescent or the Pulteney Bridge – one of only four bridges in the world to be lined with shops on both sides!

Top Tip : Take a dip in the naturally heated waters at Thermae Bath Spa – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!

BEST TOUR OF BATH FROM LONDON

Visiting Bath is one of the most requested day trips from London. This fabulous Bath, Windsor Castle & Stonehenge tour has 900+ stellar ratings!

If you love spa towns, you’ll also love Harrogate – the Yorkshire spa town where you can bathe in the original Victorian Turkish Baths favoured by European royalty!

There’s so much more to Oxford than one of the world’s most prestigious universities! Explore this “city of dreaming spires” as you wander through picturesque colleges, or take a punt down the River Cherwell for spectacular views.

From the grandeur of Christ Church College to the stunning Radcliffe Camera building at the fabulous Bodleian Library – you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Harry Potter movie set (in fact, parts of Hogwarts were filmed here).

10. Stratford-upon-Avon

For those who love literary history, Stratford-upon-Avon is a must-visit. Famously known as the birthplace of the legendary playwright William Shakespeare , this quaint town is a true gem for history buffs and literary enthusiasts.

You can wander down the cobbled streets and explore the many historical sites scattered throughout the town, including Shakespeare’s birthplace , Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Holy Trinity Church , where he was buried.

Don’t worry if your knowledge of Shakespeare is limited. Theatres in the town offer performances of his plays year-round. 

An ancient city in the north of England, steeped in history and character. The medieval city walls are a sight to behold – take a walk along them for panoramic views over York Minster – Europe’s largest Gothic cathedral.

When you’re ready for a break from sightseeing, head down to The Shambles – an ancient street full of quirky shops and cafes that looks like somewhere straight out of a Harry Potter story!

DISCOVER YORK

Find all the best things to see and do in York , including where to eat and stay.

Grays Court Hotel is a city centre hotel set in beautiful grounds between the city walls and York Minster, with luxurious bedrooms and a superb restaurant. It’s the only hotel in York with direct access to the York City Walls!

➡️ Check Prices & Availability at the Grays Court Hotel here .

12. Cambridge

Another famous university city with unique charm. You can’t miss K ing’s College Chapel towering over The Backs ; it’s one of England’s most iconic sights!

In addition to enjoying its beautiful buildings and gardens, such as Trinity College or St John’s College Gardens , which feature tranquil waterways perfect for punting, be sure not to miss out on visiting the Fitzwilliam Museum , with its vast collection ranging from ancient Egypt to modern art. 

13. Bristol

For a lively city, head west to Bristol. The buzzing city centre boasts colourful street art (courtesy of Banksy), boutique shops galore and plenty of places to eat and drink your way around town.

Take advantage of Clifton Village , too – where grand Georgian homes line pretty streets that lead down towards Brunel’s iconic suspension bridge.

14. Castle Combe

For the quintessential English village experience, you can’t beat Castle Combe – one of the prettiest villages in England, within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Wander past honey-coloured cottages listed as ancient monuments and look out for the yellow Dower House – made famous as Dr Dolittle’s house in the eponymous 1967 movie.

Check out the 14th-century Market Cross and pretty 15th-century St Andrew’s church before snapping the very Instagrammable bridge over Water Lane!

Top Tip : Visit outside of the school holiday period (when it will be heaving with tourists) and soak up the sleepy ambience.

15. Isle of Wight

For the best chance of English sunshine combined with stunning beaches and Victorian history, getaway on the Isle of Wight ferry for a short break! It’s one of the most popular UK holiday destinations.

Take the world-famous chairlift to see the Needles Rocks , explore Carisbrooke Castle or peek inside a royal palace at Osborne House – described at first sight by Queen Victoria as “impossible to imagine a prettier spot”.

BEST ISLE OF WIGHT TOUR FROM LONDON

This exciting 3-day tour of the Isle of Wight and England’s South Coast is the best way to see this pretty island and visit the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery!

16. Haworth Village

Love the Bronte sisters ? Treat yourself to a trip to Haworth in rural West Yorkshire to visit the Bronte Parsonage Museum – the house where the Bronte sisters lived and wrote their classic novels.

The village is full of quirky independent shops, cosy coffee shops, and friendly traditional pubs where you’ll be served superb British food !

For a real treat, ride the heritage steam railway from Haworth to Oakworth station – featured in the seminal movie “ The Railway Children “.

17. St Ives

Even on a rainy day in Cornwall, there’s plenty to do, with long coastal walking paths, the Eden Project and quaint seaside resorts to explore.

In St Ives, you’ll want to visit the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden and pick from the town’s best beaches ( Porthminster Beach, Carbis Bay Beach , and Porthmeor Beach .

The best time to visit this stunning South Coast seaside town is early June before the high summer crowds descend!

Explore England’s National Parks

Ah, the British summer – when the sun shines (occasionally), the skies turn blue (sometimes), and every inch of grass is covered in picnicking families.

But what if we told you there’s a better way to spend your summer days? A way that involves exploring some of England’s most breathtaking national parks? Trust us, swapping out your soggy sandwiches for hiking boots is worth it.

18. The Lake District National Park

One of England’s most famous national parks, and for a good reason. With its rolling hills, glittering lakes and charming villages, visiting the Lake District is like stepping into a postcard.

Spend your days hiking through wooded valleys and mountainous areas or trying your hand at water sports on Lake Windermere . Then treat yourself to a slice of sticky toffee pudding – after all, you’ve earned it! 

The Lake District is the ideal “escape-it-all” destination from London, especially if you love a good road trip!

19. Dartmoor National Park

This rugged landscape offers something for everyone – from wild Dartmoor ponies roaming free to ancient stone circles waiting to be discovered. Take a hike across the windswept moors before cooling off with a dip in one of the park’s many rivers and streams.

Top Tip: Pack some waterproofs because who knows when those famous British showers will hit!

20. Northumberland National Park

A hidden gem tucked away in England’s northeast corner. You’ll find miles of unspoilt heather moorland dotted with historic castles and Roman forts waiting to be explored, including the UNESCO World Heritage Hadrian’s Wall .

Visit the incredible Kielder Forest and make sure you take some time to stargaze at the dark sky observatory – Northumberland boasts some of the best views of the Milky Way around.

The summer holidays are also the perfect time for exploring the green spaces of the North York Moors , and the Yorkshire Dales . 

So pack up the car, grab your walking boots and make some memories of amazing outdoor experiences for the whole family!

Visit Iconic English Landmarks

England is awash with famous landmarks like Stonehenge and the White Cliffs of Dover , but they can get very busy in the summer months. Why not try one of these instead?

21. Jurassic Coast and Durdle Door

Famous World Heritage site Stonehenge at sunrise for a breathtaking view.

22. Holy Island of Lindisfarne England

Ancient Lindisfarne is one of the most beautiful island castles in Britain . Located on a tidal island in the North East of England, the site has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries.

It’s where the famous Lindisfarne Gospels were created in the 8th century and is stunning to visit – make sure to check the tide times before attempting your trip!

23. Camber Sands England

You can’t beat glorious Camber Sands for a stunning example of a British beach. It’s the perfect place for a traditional bucket and spade holiday!

Take a Trip to Fabulous Castles and Stately Homes

24. windsor castle.

Visiting Windsor Castle is one of the most popular day trips from London – and with good reason! It’s only a short drive by coach from London and stunning!

As the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, Windsor has been the family home of British monarchs for almost 1,000 years.  It’s one of the King’s official residences and a working royal palace .

Best Ways to Visit Windsor Castle

➡️ “DONE FOR YOU” GROUP TRAVEL : Book this top-rated one-day tour of Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath

➡️ INDEPENDENT TRAVEL: Buy your advance admission tickets for Windsor Castle here

25. Blenheim Palace

Beautiful Blenheim Palace is one of Britain’s best tourist attractions, and it’s particularly popular to visit from London during the long summer break.

Blenheim is a delight, from the opulent Palace State Rooms to the Churchill exhibition to “upstairs” and “downstairs” tours . And then there are the glorious gardens!

The best way to visit Blenheim for the first time is on a guided tour.

➡️ This highly-rated tour of Blenheim from London will take all the hassle of getting there away and maximise your time for exploring!

Indulge in English cuisine

British food  was once the butt of many jokes!

Today, however, you’ll find  tasty traditional British dishes  like fish & chips, bangers & mash, and steak pies, alongside popular dishes from around the world that have become staple English favourites.

Guided food tours are a fantastic way to sample a new cuisine. You get to taste foods you’ve never tried and see the heart of the city you’re visiting.

English Summertime Weather

English summertime weather can be unpredictable, but it keeps us on our toes! From sunburn to raincoats in minutes, we never know whether to expect warm summers or cold weather.

So pack an umbrella, embrace the English weather and enjoy all this quirky island has to offer!

This packing guide will help you choose what to bring, even if you do get some wet weather 🙂 🌂

Average England summer temperatures

England enjoys a temperate climate, with average highs in the 20s in the summer, although average temperatures range from 9-18 degrees!

Generally, the weather is warmer in the south of the United Kingdom than in the country’s northern areas, like the Scottish Highlands and islands,

The British Met Office forecasts that 2023 will be hotter in England than 2022 , where the highest temperatures exceeded 40 degrees Celsius in the summer. Don’t forget your sun cream!

In the shoulder season (September and October), it’s not uncommon to have an Indian summer in England, lasting until early October when the nights start to draw in and the temperature drops.

FAQs: England in the Summertime

Is summer a good time to visit england.

England’s weather in the summer is glorious but not too hot, making it a great time to visit the country and still be able to enjoy days out sightseeing.

Is July a good time to visit England?

July is the perfect time to visit England. You’ll benefit from the warmest temperatures and longest days if you visit at the start of the month – before

What is there to do in the UK in the summer?

The UK offers history, culture, exciting outdoor activities and incredible foodie experiences. From castles and cathedrals to coastlines, lakes, mountains, and beautiful towns and villages, there is something in the UK for everyone in the summer.

What are the best summer months in England?

The English summer runs from early June to the end of August, with the best weather typically seen in July and August. I recommend visiting England in July because everywhere becomes busy once the schools break for summer – at the end of the month, and there are so many things to do in the UK in July!

What month is best to go to London?

Early July is a great time to visit London – before the English school holidays six-week block begins, and the city becomes crowded!

Where in England is nice in the summer?

In addition to London, the English countryside and coast are some of the best places to visit in England in the summer.

How do you spend summer in the UK?

From watching the rowing at Henley Royal Regatta to strawberries and cream at Wimbledon, hiking in the English national parks or taking a dip at the seaside, plenty keeps you busy in England in the summer.

What to wear in England in the summer

Lightweight layers are the best plan for English summers, as the weather is changeable. Having a lightweight rain jacket and/or umbrella is always good!

Which city is warmest in summer in the UK?

London is the warmest English city in the summer, so you’ll need to carry a bottle of water – especially if travelling on the London Underground, where temperatures can get uncomfortably warm.

Which part of the UK is most beautiful?

Northern England, with the stunning national parks of the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire Moors and glorious Northumberland, is often overlooked by international visitors but is breathtakingly beautiful (in all seasons).

What are the hottest months in England?

Typically the hottest months in England are June, July and August, although September can also be pleasantly warm.

What month does it cool down in the UK?

In typical years, English temperatures fall in September and October as the days become progressively shorter.

What month is the coldest in the UK?

December, January and February are the winter months in England, with February statistically the coldest.

In Conclusion: Visiting England in the Summer Months

In conclusion, visiting England in the summer is an experience unlike any other. From the bustling streets of London to the picturesque countryside, there’s truly something for everyone and a great variety of places to visit in England in summer months.

So pack your bags and get ready for some good old-fashioned British fun!

Like it? Pin England in the Summer for Later!

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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.

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10 Best UK Cities to Visit This Summer

Bath is a city that has long been a cultural hub. Throughout the year, it hosts a variety of festivals, including live theatre, music, and literature. The city's history dates back to 1 AD when it was built as a Roman spa town. This Roman influence is still evident today, especially in the well-preserved Roman Baths . Don't miss the Thermae Bath Spa for a luxurious retreat with rooftop pools and stunning city views.

2. Edinburgh

As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of medieval history and modern culture. Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse showcase its medieval heritage, while the Fringe arts festival in the summer draws hundreds of thousands of tourists. For breath-taking views, hike up Arthur's Seat, the city's highest point. Edinburgh is also famous for The Elephant House, a coffee shop that inspired J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.

The iconic capital of England, London offers a plethora of attractions. From historic landmarks like the Tower of London , Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey to modern marvels like The Shard and the Sky Garden , the city is a blend of old and new. Families can enjoy the London Eye , Tower Bridge , and Madame Tussauds . London is a multicultural hub with diverse food, music, fashion, and world-class museums like the Victoria & Albert Museum .

Bristol, recently named one of the world's top places to visit, has much to offer. The SS Great Britain , a giant naval ship, is a historical gem with a museum and educational facilities. The city also boasts the Christmas Steps , a famous 17th-century lane lined with boutique shops and galleries. Stokes Croft, a bustling community area, offers great cafes, restaurants, and bars.

5 .Manchester

Manchester played a pivotal role in Britain's Industrial Revolution and is known for its iconic worker bee symbol. It's a city with a creative spirit, offering arts, crafts, fine dining, and shopping. Explore the Bohemian maze of the Northern Quarter , filled with galleries, cafes, and shops. Beech Road in Chorlton provides a laid-back atmosphere with outdoor dining terraces.

6. Brighton

Brighton is a bustling seaside destination nestled between the sea and Sussex countryside. The Palace Pier is a major attraction with exciting rides and arcade activities. Nearby, Sea Life Brighton offers insights into marine life. The city also has a rich history, with ancient narrow lanes and quirky shops, along with the world-famous Royal Pavilion, an exotic palace built for King George IV.

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, has embraced its role as a leading urban centre. The city offers a compact yet lively environment with museums, attractions, parks, live entertainment venues, restaurants, and more. Cardiff Castle , Cardiff Bay , and historical docks are some of its notable landmarks. The city also serves as a base for day trips to surrounding valleys and coastal areas.

York is steeped in Medieval history and heritage. Its most famous attraction is York Minster , one of the world's most immense Gothic cathedrals. The city offers interactive museums, such as the York Chocolate Story and York Castle Museum. Exploring the ancient city walls and wandering through narrow lanes with boutique shops is a unique experience.

9. Cambridge

Cambridge is known for its inspirational charm and grand architecture. With a world-leading university and over 30 colleges, the city offers world-famous museums, galleries, live entertainment festivals, theatres, and shopping centres. Punting along the River Cam is a must, allowing you to see the city's historic colleges from a unique perspective.

Oxford , the venerable seat of learning, showcases a millennia-old legacy. Its prestigious University , ancient colleges, and iconic libraries draw scholars and tourists alike. Architectural gems like the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera stand testament to its timeless allure. This city marries history and academia in a captivating embrace.

These cities in the UK offer a diverse range of experiences, from rich history and cultural heritage to modern entertainment and breath-taking scenery, making them ideal destinations for families and tourists seeking memorable adventures. Definitely all to be added onto your bucket list!

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UK tourism has seen a rise in recent years, and with travel restrictions easing, more families are expected to visit. This blog lists 15 top cities to visit, including Bath, Edinburgh, Norwich, London, Bristol, Manchester, Cambridge, and Brighton, each offering unique attractions and experiences.

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23 Best Places To Visit In The UK In July (2024 Review)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole

The United Kingdom is a wonderful place for a summer holiday. The sun is shining and lovely warm temperatures await you on most days. Of course, it is England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and there is no such thing as guaranteed good weather in any month of the year! Nevertheless, July is a lovely time to visit Great Britain and beyond. Better yet, pretty towns, exciting cities, breathtaking beaches and stunning national parks are there to discover on a summer vacation. Whether you love to explore sophisticated cities, stumble upon hidden treasures tucked into quaint villages, or tread off-the-beaten path in parks and countrysides, the United Kingdom offers it all. Here are the 23 best places to visit in the UK in July.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other Options

Europe offers many fantastic holiday options in summer. If you are curious about what those are, please check out the following.

For other amazing destinations to visit in the United Kingdom, please see:

• 28 Best Places To Visit In The UK In June ;
• 22 Best Places To Visit In The UK in August ;
• 20 Best Places To Visit In The UK In September ; and
• 26 Best Places To Visit In The UK In Summer .

For great weather, the best time to visit the United Kingdom is June, July, August, and September. Accordingly, all three articles, in addition to this article, would be helpful for choosing the best vacations for any of these months.

If you are keen to travel to Europe in summer, but want to make sure that the destination won’t be too hot or humid, please see 24 Best Places To Visit In Europe For Mild Summer Weather . Overall, most places in the United Kingdom avoid extreme heat and humidity in summertime.

If you are looking for beach options for the United Kingdom and Europe, check out 27 Best Beaches To Visit In Europe In June and 25 Best Beach Holidays in Europe In September .

For those interested in the best vacation spots in Europe in July, please see 24 Best Places To Visit In Europe In July .

Europe offers many inexpensive destinations even in summer. For an in depth review of where to go, consider reading 28 Best Cheap Places In Europe For A Summer Vacation .

If you only have a few days to spare, then spend a few moments reviewing 26 Amazing Summer Weekend Getaways In Europe for some inspiration.

Best Places To Visit In The UK In July

Here are 23 of the best places to visit in July in the United Kingdom. Each destination highlights the best things to do, where to stay, how to get there, and expected weather for a summer getaway.

Castle Combe, England

By Jessie from Pocket Wanderings

Castle Combe  is a small village in the Cotswolds, nestled in the county of Wiltshire. It’s often considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in the United Kingdom, with its quaint, chocolate-box appeal. With no overhead cables or aerials, it’s a place that feels frozen in time. It is one of the best places for a summer trip in the UK.

The summer is the perfect time to go for a gentle amble through the village, soaking up the atmosphere while listening to the chirping of the birds and the trickle of the stream. Pick up some homemade delicacies from The Little Picnic Shop and enjoy some alfresco dining in this picture-perfect setting. For something more active, play a round of golf at The Manor House course or join one of the nearby walking routes.

The circular walk from Castle Combe to Ford and back is a beautiful 7km walk through pretty woodland and open grassland. Part of the walk takes you through Danks Down – an area of Special Scientific Interest. It’s great for spotting different species of bird, from buzzards and woodpeckers to marsh tits and owls. Once back in Castle Combe, treat yourself to an indulgent afternoon tea at The Manor House as a reward for your hiking efforts.  

The month of July offers the best chance of warm weather and sunshine, making it an ideal time to explore this village – which has little in the way of indoor facilities. Average highs are around 69 o F with the likelihood of some rain around 7 days. Being the UK, sunshine is never guaranteed, so bring an umbrella and packable raincoat just in case!

Best Way To Reach The Destination

The most convenient international airport for visiting Castle Combe is London Heathrow. It is a 90 minute drive away along the M4. For those flying from within the UK, Bristol airport is nearby. You can’t park directly within the village – which is part of its old-world charm – but there is a free car park just a 10 minute walk outside of the village.

Hotel Recommendation

Jessie says, “There are two hotel options within Castle Combe. For a luxury option, stay at the iconic Manor House hotel – a 14th century manor house with exceptional hospitality and elegant interiors. Or for a more budget-friendly option, try The Castle Inn for a cosy and comfortable place to stay. It’s also worth checking Airbnb for self-catering options, as some of the cottages in the village are available as holiday lets.”

Peak District National Park, England

By Jenny from Peak District Kids

The Peak District, nestled between the big cities of Manchester, Sheffield, and Derby, is the oldest national park in Great Britain. It is one of the best places for a July vacation in the United Kingdom for outdoor lovers.

There are an abundance of walks through winding valleys (such as the Dovedale or Lathkill Dale) to epic view points (such as the  Thorpe Cloud walk ), or along dramatic escarpments (such as Baslow Edge or Stanage Edge).

In addition, there are also lots of disused railway tracks that have been transformed into traffic-free cycle paths that criss-cross the National Park. These are relatively flat and wide, so perfect for families (such as the Monsal Trail and High Peak Trail).

From Castleton (one of the main villages in the Peak District), there are fantastic hikes up to Mam Tor and Lose Hill view points, or you can venture underground to explore the limestone caverns. Plus there are lots of pubs to treat yourself after a long day adventuring in the great outdoors.

The weather in the Peak District is notoriously interchangeable. Average high is 65 degrees Fahrenheit with the possibility of some rain around 8 days in July. In summer, it’s often warm enough for a wild swim.

However, you are more likely to experience four seasons in one day, so dress in layers and be prepared with good hiking shoes and a map. The temperature is always a couple of degrees cooler on the escarpment edges, and more if there’s a strong wind.

Manchester Airport is the nearest international airport, and from there you can be in Castleton within 45 minutes.

Jenny says, “ You won’t find any big hotel chains here in the Peak District. The best way to experience the National Park is by renting a self-catering holiday cottage on a farm (check out Peak Cottages). Or if you are visiting on a budget, look at the YHAs or campsites.”

Isle of Skye, Scotland

By Paulina from UK Everyday

One of the best places for a July holiday in Great Britain is the Isle of Skye. The largest and most northerly of the Inner Hebrides in Scotland attracts many tourists every year. Due to its unspoilt landscape, it is also a great destination for professional or budding amateur photographers.

The Old Man of Storr , pinnacles of rock set against the backdrop of rolling green hills and the coastline, is the most photographed place on the island. It is also possible to hike it. A relatively easy walk at just 3 hours, you will be awarded with impressive views such as the Scottish Islands Raasay, Rona and Harris.

There are also amazing waterfalls in this part of the UK such as Kilt Rock or Mealt Falls. For wild swimming, visit Fairy Pools which are also a great place for families.

Keep in mind that it rains a lot in Scotland. In July, expect around 12 days with some rain. Summer highs are around 60 o F, unless there is a heatwave in the UK. Then you can expect sunny warm weather even in the Isle of Skye.

Good news for the rest of the time as the island looks the most magical when it is gloomy. It is known as the mist island!

The best airports to fly to visit the Isle of Skye are in Glasgow or Edinburgh. It takes over 4 hours to drive there. However, with so many amazing places to stop along the way, you will not notice the July road trip. You can access the island via a free bridge.

Paulina says, “I f you are looking for a good hotel check out the beautiful town Portree. You can also choose Broadford and stay in the Hebridean Inn or book a room in one of the cottages in the northern part of the island. Hilltop House bed and breakfast is a good place to stop for a night while exploring  Isle of Skye.”

Bath, England

By Emma from Emma Jane Explores

Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage listed city  and the largest city located in the county of Somerset. It offers a gorgeous old town feel and summer events making it one of the best destinations to travel in the UK for a July getaway.

Bath is famous for its geothermal springs. In addition, it has incredible Roman Baths, a site that dates all the way back to the 5 th  century.

Make sure you visit the Royal Crescent – a curved street of townhouses that re-defines the word picturesque. The writer Jane Austen spent time in Bath and the town’s influence found its way into her novels. If you are an admirer of her work, then the Jane Austen centre in Bath is definitely worth a visit.

Have you even visited Bath if you haven’t sampled the town’s hot springs firsthand? Luckily in July, the weather doesn’t get ridiculously hot, so a soak in a geothermal spring is still very pleasant. Try the Thermae Bath Spa for all your wellness needs.  

Visiting Bath at any time of year is a great idea, but in the summer peak in July this town really comes to life. The Bath Carnival completely transforms the town’s old-world charm into a vibrant and modern party atmosphere.

Bath is also quite close to the mystical Stonehenge region, so try to make a day trip to see these magical stones.

Bath’s weather in July is usually balmy with highs in the low 20s Celsius (69 Fahrenheit). Expect around 7 days with some rain.

Bristol International Airport is the closest airport to Bath, but it is also very easy to fly into London and then take the train out to the Somerset region.

Emma says, “ Bath is full of excellent accommodation options, but for a real treat, consider the Gainsborough Bath Spa or the Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa – both are beautiful, high-end options.

Pembrokeshire National Park, Wales

By Rachel from Average Lives

Pembrokeshire National Park is one of the best destination for a July trip in the United Kingdom. The area is full of beautiful beaches, colourful towns, and a slow-paced way of life. 

In the north, you should make time to visit Great Britain’s smallest city – St Davids, which has a beautiful cathedral, shops, pubs and an excellent fish and chip shop. Nearby is the beautiful Blue Lagoon , which is an old quarry that has been transformed into an adventure playground. You can go coasteering, kayaking, swimming in the lagoon, or hiking above to discover hidden beaches.

In the south, you will be welcomed into the lively town of Tenby, which is a popular home base to explore the surrounding area. Although there’s plenty to do in the town itself, the natural beauty lies around its coastline.

It would be best if you headed to Barafundle Bay to see the most transparent water in Wales. Alternatively, catch a ferry to the nearby Skomer Island to see some of the 10,000 pairs of puffins. The puffins are there from April to August. However, the best time to see them is in the middle of June to the middle of July. During this time, they are looking for sand eels to feed their young. It is a beautiful sight to see.  

July has an average high temperature of around 65 °F (16°C) and is the fewest rainy days in the year (just 8). July can be cloudy, but it is one of the warmer months to visit.

To reach Pembrokeshire, the nearest airport is Cardiff (CWL) Airport, 75 miles away. From here, it would be best to hire a car and make stops along the way. 

Rachel says, “ A great place to stay would be at Beachcomber B&B in Tenby or in St David’s at Twr y Felin Hotel or Caerfai Farm, campsite closeby.”

Newcastle Upon Tyne, England

By Bridget from The Flashpacker

With its charming historic Georgian core, a thriving cultural agenda and foodie scene, rejuvenated quayside and suburban sandy beaches, this is one of the most attractive and vibrant cities in the UK for vacations in July.

Explore the city’s elegant Georgian streets, iconic bridges and waterfront on a walking tour. If you are a culture vulture, one of the  best things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne  is to visit the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art. Housed in one of the flour mills that lined the River Tyne, this landmark building is the setting for a changing programme of art exhibitions and events.

If it’s open spaces that you are after, fill your lungs with sea air by walking along the sensational beach from Tynemouth to Whitley Bay.

Furthermore, it is an excellent base for day trips to the historic city of Durham, Hadrian’s Wall or forays into the wild Northumberland countryside.

The weather in July is perfect. It’s one of the sunniest, driest and warmest months of the year with daytime temperature nudging 66 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius).

Most travellers arrive in Newcastle’s centrally located train station that has frequent direct train services to London King’s Cross station and to Edinburgh.

If you are flying from overseas, the closest international airport is Edinburgh, a two and half drive to the north. There is also a regional airport, located just six miles north-west of the city centre.

Bridget says, “ Newcastle upon Tyne has no shortage of good places to stay. Book a self-catering suite at the Staybridge Suites, an aparthotel one block from the quayside. The facilities at this affordable mid-range option include a well-equipped kitchenette, free in-house laundry and complimentary breakfast and tea and coffee.”

Exmouth, England

By Claire from Go South West England

Exmouth is on the southeast coast of Devon where the river Exe meets the sea. In July, the holiday town of Exmouth booms. It’s most famous for its vast beach which stretches for two miles, starting at the Exe Estuary and finishing at the red rock cliffs of the Jurassic Coast. It is one of the best beach destinations in Great Britain for holidays in July.

Some of the best things to do in Exmouth is rent paddle boards or kayaks from the prestigious watersports centre or visit the fascinating National Trust property A La Ronde. This is a 16 sided house where two spinsters lived. They filled the house with a collection of items from their world travels. 

You can hike the Exmouth part of the South West Coast Path, or trek inland to the moors, visiting charming villages like Otterton and East Budleigh on the way. In addition, the Exe Estuary Trail connects Exmouth with Exeter and takes in some fantastic riverside scenery and birdlife. 

Being on the south coast of the country, Exmouth has one of the best climates in England. However, it can be a bit cooler in the summer months than places like London, as it has a lovely coastal breeze. Expect average highs of 69 Fahrenheit and around 7 days of rain.

To get to Exmouth, you can fly into either Exeter Airport (a 20 minute drive) or Bristol Airport (a 1.5 hour drive). There are public buses from Exeter Airport and a coach service that connects Bristol with Exeter. 

Claire says, “ The seaside town is full of hotels and wonderful places to stay. The Devon Cliffs Caravan Park is a popular Haven resort. It sits midway between Exmouth and its neighbouring town Budleigh Salterton, sitting high on the cliffs of the oldest part of the Jurassic Coast. The Dolphin Hotel is also a recommended hotel in the town centre.”

Orkney Islands, Scotland

By Suzanne from Meandering Wild

The  Orkney Islands  are a small group of islands located off the north coast of Scotland. They are beautiful and would be one of the best places to visit in the UK in July.

The main island is known as Mainland. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Neolithic past that is slowly being uncovered.

Skara Brae is a Neolithic village, older than Stonehenge and has been excavated fully with an interesting visitors centre. Nearby is the Ring of Brodgar, a large circle of standing stones and Maes Howe, a burial chamber.

On the far north tip of Mainland is the Brough of Birsay. The island is home to puffins in July who nest in the cliffs close to the lighthouse. This makes for a lovely walk across the causeway and around the island.

The main city on Orkney is Kirkwall. The centre of the town is built around the red sandstone cathedral and the adjacent Bishops Palaces. There is a small and interesting museum that tells the story of the islands tucked away opposite the cathedral.

Orkney weather is unpredictable.  Even in the summer, there can be storms but these are calmer than the winter storms. 

Average high temperature in July is 60 degree Fahrenheit although there is always a cooling breeze. 

Rainfall is unpredictable but happens around 8 days during the month. However, any rain that does arrive is short lived and passes through quickly.

To get to Orkney, it is best to fly into Glasgow or Edinburgh. From there you will need a second flight to Kirkwall. 

If you would prefer to drive, then it is 6 hours from Edinburgh or Glasgow to the ferry terminal at Thurso. You will need to take a 90 minute ferry to the second main town of Stromness.

Suzanne says, “ Hotels on Orkney are limited but the Standing Stones Hotel in Stenness makes a good base. This hotel is located on the side of a loch with views to the Ring of Brodgar.”

Brighton, England

By Erica from Travels With Erica

Brighton is located on the south coast of England and is one of the most beautiful seaside towns in the UK. It is also one of the most popular and best beach destinations for getaways in July in the United Kingdom amongst locals and tourists. 

With the beautiful weather, most people head outside to the famous Brighton seafront and Palace Pier. You can walk along the seafront, play arcade games on the pier, and even ride a rollercoaster. 

When it is time to take a break from the midday heat, consider visiting the Royal Pavilion. It was King George IV’s favorite royal residence. He had extravagant taste, and a lot of the original decor is still displayed in the Pavilion. 

The Lanes are another must-visit attraction in Brighton. They’re a series of small, winding streets in the heart of the city. They feature small boutique clothing stores, tourist shops, and some excellent restaurants. It is the best places in Brighton to go if you’re looking for a good meal. 

July is one of the hottest and least rainiest months of the year. You can expect highs of 67 Fahrenheit with just 6 days of light rain on average. 

It is less than 2 hours away  from central London by train  and only 45 minutes from Gatwick Airport. By car, it takes 40 minutes to drive to Brighton from Gatwick. 

Erica says, “ You’ll be spending most of your time in Brighton in the southern part of the city near the seafront, The Lanes, and Royal Pavilion, so you should stay as close to the seafront as possible. The Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront is one of the best hotels near the seafront. It sells out quickly so be sure to book early.”

Belfast, Northern Ireland

By Sinead from Map Made Memories

The  city of Belfast  is the capital of Northern Ireland and is a vibrant city offering visitors a range of attractions. It is also a great base to start or finish a July road trip in Northern Ireland to see such places as Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge .

One of the most popular tourist attractions in the city is Titanic Belfast, the museum dedicated to the tragic story of the Titanic. As the RMS Titanic was built in Belfast, there is an equal emphasis on how the ship was designed and constructed as well as on the disaster itself. There is incredible and moving footage of the wreck of the Titanic in the museum’s auditorium. Don’t miss the SS Nomadic next door to the museum, one of Titanic’s tender boats that you can climb on board and explore.

Another Belfast must see is the Ulster Museum situated in the 26-acre Belfast Botanic Gardens. Exhibits range from Egyptian mummies to jewellery but “the Troubles” exhibit is worth a special visit. The “Troubles” refers to the three decades of civil unrest (that only ended in 1998) between the Catholics and Protestants in Northern Ireland where over 3600 people died.

If you are in Belfast over a weekend, browse the stalls at St Georges Market. The market has been operating since the 1890s and was voted the UK’s best indoor market in 2019. Tourists can purchase locally sourced fruit and vegetables, antiques, specialty foods or locally made crafts or just enjoy soaking up the lively atmosphere.

If you are traveling with teens, Belfast is an ideal destination.

Belfast weather is seasonal with cool, wet days even in summer so be prepared for all weathers when visiting the city. Summer high temperatures average around 65 o F (18 degrees Celsius) with around 2″ of rain.

Belfast International Airport is the closest airport is 18 miles north west of the city centre. Belfast is accessible in 30 minutes by car or public bus.

Sinead says, “ Stay as central as you can to the sights you wish to visit as Belfast traffic is notoriously congested. The budget-friendly Premier Inn or upscale Titanic Belfast are good choices as both are located in the Titanic Quarter near the Titanic museum. From here, it will take only 25 minutes to walk to St George’s market and the city centre.”

Newquay, England

By Kirsty from Lost In Cornwall

Newquay is a town on the North Coast of Cornwall right down in the South West of England. With its hippy and surfing communities it is very different from some of the more up market towns nearby. It is one of the best destinations for July trips in Great Britain.

The spectacular coastline and beaches are what draws people to Cornwall. Newquay has 8 beaches  in the town itself and there are at least a dozen more within easy reach by car or local bus. 

Each beach has a different vibe. Some are busy with families and some are more suited to long walks with your dog. Almost all have a gorgeous blue colour that you just don’t get anywhere else in the UK!

You can try your hand at a lot of watersports near Newquay but what many people come for is the surfing. You can hire gear or get beginner’s lessons with a variety of surfing schools. Most of the beaches have a lifeguard presence in July. 

Bedruthan Steps is a short drive from Newquay and will provide you with some peace and tranquillity.  It’s a stunning stretch of coastline with sea stacks that get battered by the sea. You can walk the coastal path here and really get away from the crowds.    

Cornwall is warm and sunny in the summer months although it can be prone to having days of rain as well. This part of the country sees slightly warmer weather than the rest of the United Kingdom due to its southerly position. In July, expect average highs of 65 degree Fahrenheit with 7 days of some rain.

Being in the southwest of the country, it can be a long journey by car from elsewhere in the UK. Thankfully, Newquay has its own small international airport which connects Cornwall to London, some other British airports and some European countries too. From the airport, it’s a 15 minute drive to town.

Kirsty says, “ When looking for a hotel, why not consider the iconic Headland hotel which was featured in the 90s classic film The Witches. It has a great position looking out on the sea. Yet, it is still walking distance to all the wonderful beaches. “

Jersey , British Isles

By Coralie from Grey Globetrotters

It’s hard to think of a better place to visit in July than the British Channel Island of Jersey. It is not actually a part of Great Britain or the United Kingdom but a beautiful destination in the British Isles.

From the stunning 50 miles of coastline crammed with beaches, coves and cute little harbours, to thousands of years of history, there’s plenty to explore by day, and really good restaurants and a lively nightlife too.

One of the most unique things to do in Jersey is to take a  RIB trip to Les Ecrehous  – an offshore island reef. You’ll probably see seals at the reef and be accompanied by a pod of dolphins on your way back!

If you love water sports, head for the glorious golden sands of St Brelade’s Bay to try paddle boarding or kayaking, or head further west to St Ouen’s Bay to try out the Atlantic breakers as the huge tide rolls in. Then tuck into something to eat at El Tico, but make sure to grab a window seat, so you can watch the surf.

Alternatively, Jersey has two must-see castles. Medieval Mont Orgeuil Castle dominates the harbour at Gorey and is full of nooks and crannies to explore. Elizabeth Castle sits in the bay of St Aubin, guarding the entrance to St Helier harbour. The latter is an island castle, so when the tide is in, the only way to visit is by amphibious vehicle. Both castles are packed with history and offer guided tours.

Expect warm, sunny days in July, with temperatures in the mid 20s Celsius (high 60s Fahrenheit), although it can rain or be warmer.

Less than an hour from London’s Gatwick Airport, Jersey is perfect for a quick weekend break or a longer stay.

Coralie says, “ For a touch of luxury, stay at the Longueville Manor Hotel, or the Atlantic Hotel, and dine in at least once, as both have superb restaurants.”

York, England

By Natasha from Planes, Trains and Karcz

While a visit to York is idyllic at any time of year, it’s a great places to visit in the UK in July when the city really comes to life. With summer bringing lots of sunshine in this otherwise moody English hotspot, it allows for locals and travelers alike to get outside and breathe in the beauty, history and vibrancy of the city. 

Begin your time here with a walk upon York’s signature medieval stone walls, as doing so serves as a great way to orient yourself and get a sense of the city’s layout. There’s nearly 3.5km of preserved circuit to cover, so you can anticipate spending close to two hours on the route. 

From there, venture through a real-life Diagon Alley (for all those Harry Potter fans out there!). This was named the most picturesque street in all of Britain, with its slouching timber-framed builds dating as far back as the 1300’s.

Consider popping into one of the many pubs along the way – there’s more pubs in York than there are days in a year – so there’ll be no shortage of ones to choose from. Alternatively, stop at the infamous Betty’s Cafe for a traditional high tea, if that’s more up your alley. 

Of course, no trip to York would be complete without exploring York Minster, otherwise known as one of the most beautiful Gothic buildings in the world. The cathedral towers over the remainder of the city. It is well worth climbing if you’re interested in what can only be described as the best view around. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Scotland.

Average high temperatures in July are 68 degrees Fahrenheit with 7 days of rain on average.

You’ll first need to fly into Leeds Bradford Airport and make the approximate 50 minute drive – or the one and a half hour train ride – to York.

Natasha says, “ While there’s virtually an endless list of things to do during your trip to York, opt to stay in one of its equally stunning accommodations such as the chic downtown Hotel Indigo or the rustically styled North Star Club glamping facility nearby.”

Camber Sands, England

By Shobha from Epic England Travel

Camber Sands is a wide stretch of sandy beach in East Sussex located on the southeast corner of England. It is a fantastic beach destination to enjoy in July in the UK.

There are plenty of things to do in Camber Sands for beach lovers. The sand is super soft and great for sand castle building. You can also explore the rock pools and the sand dune system. There is a circular walk from Camber Sands to Rye which is 4 miles away.

Rye, itself, is a picture-perfect town of cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. There are great pubs, antique stores and little boutiques scattered around the little side streets. These side streets and the town’s location near the sea means that there is a rich history of smuggling in the area. You can visit the  Rye Castle Museum  and a National Trust property where the famous American writer, Henry James lived.

According to weather experts, Sussex is the sunniest county in the United Kingdom! So visiting Camber Sands in July is a good bet for sunshine. Average highs in July are 68 degree Fahrenheit with 6 days of rain. The water is pretty cold and you would be most comfortable in a wet suit if you are planning on swimming.

The nearest international airport would be Gatwick International Airport. You can actually take a train from Gatwick to Camber Sands which passes through Eastbourne and Rye. The trip takes about an hour and a half by train and by car.

Shobha says, “There is a Parkdean Resorts holiday park which is about a half mile from Camber Sands. Accommodation is in caravans or in cottages of various standards of comfort.

In nearby Rye, more upscale accommodation would be at Mermaid Inn, a fantastic 15th century hotel set over a popular pub.

We, ourselves, rented one of the former Coastguards Cottages at the Jurys Gap section of Camber Sands. These cottages are now privately owned and the views are fantastic. The vacation house was a charming place to stay within a few minutes walk to the beach and perfect for families. It had lots of character but with all the modern amenities and beautifully furnished.”

Isle of Angelsey

By Shireen Ahmed from The Happy Days Travels

Just off the coast of North Wales, in the Irish Sea, is a place you must visit in the UK called the Isle of Anglesey. Connected only by the Menai Strait Suspension Bridge, this island is for adventurers, historians, cuisine-seekers and nature-enthusiast alike with stunning sunsets , medieval castles, unique wildlife and delicious seafood restaurants. It is one of the best summer vacations in the United Kingdom when the weather is at its best.

Some of the best things to do on the island include boat trips for spotting seals, hiking to the many enchanting lighthouses at various points around the peninsula, and visiting Llanfairpwll (shortened version) train station for a picture with the longest town name in the UK –  find out how to find the town here  and see if you can pronounce the 52 letter word!

Summer is the best time to visit to catch gorgeous sunsets and visiting towns like Holyhead are great for views and beaches. Even if it rains, there are lots of things to do including finding a cosy restaurant to warm up with a locally-sourced seafood chowder.

Average highs in July is 67 degree Fahrenheit with 7 days of rain on average.

Anglesey has a domestic airport where you can fly from other UK airports or alternatively, it is just an hour’s drive from the city of Liverpool. It is around 4 hours from Wales’s capital city, Cardiff.

Shireen says, “ Find accommodation in a hotspot such as Beaumaris. There is lots to explore nearby such as crabbing at the pier, the castle and shopping on old shopping streets. It also works well as a base for exploring the rest of Anglesey. I stayed at Castle Court and can recommend it for location, cleanliness and free breakfast!”

London, England

By Katja from Globetotting

It goes without saying that one of the best cities for summer holidays in the United Kingdom is London. Britain’s capital city is jam-packed with history, colour, culture, food and so much more. It’s a guaranteed highlight on any British itinerary.

In fact, your only trouble will be choosing what to see while you’re there. Some of London’s most famous sights include Buckingham Palace, home to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. For true pomp and ceremony, time your visit to the palace so that you can watch the Changing of the Guard.

Continuing with the Royal theme, make time to visit the Tower of London, the 900-year-old castle that once held many famous (and infamous) prisoners. It is now home to the Crown Jewels. Of London’s many, many museums you should visit, make sure set aside some time for the fabulous Natural History Museum, one of the many  free things to do in London .

The UK is famous for its ever-changing, unreliable weather and London is no different. Pack layers and always carry a raincoat and umbrella. However, in July, you can expect average highs in the 70s Fahrenheit with the possibility of reaching the low 80s.

London is home to six airports: Heathrow, Gatwick, Stanstead, Luton, City, and Southend, all of which offer some form of public transportation to the center. If you have a choice, try to coordinate it with the location of your accommodation. Make sure you review other important London travel tips before you arrive.

If you are looking for reasonably priced accommodation with a fantastic location near shopping on Oxford Street, with free afternoon hors d’oeuvres, dessert, beer and wine, then consider the Z Hotel At Gloucester Place.

Whitby, England

By Lavina from Continent Hop

Most people tend to visit Cornwall , Dorset and London on a trip to England. However, places like Whitby in the north of England are quite special as the accent is slightly different, and the culture and tradition varies as well. Whitby possibly has the best fish and chips in the country as it is surrounded by fresh seafood. However, its’ claim to fame is Count Dracula as Bram Stoker wrote most of his novel there.

In addition to enjoying a walk at the beach, there’s quite a few things that you can do in July at this beautiful seaside town in Great Britain. Whitby Abbey, once a Christian monastery converted into a Benedictine abbey, is the most popular. It is quite well preserved and sits perched on a cliff overlooking the city.

Consider trying the 199 Whitby Abbey steps. Originally built in wood in 1340, these steps are thought to have been used as a test of Christian faith to those who wished to worship in St Mary’s Church, found at the top. The climber also gets fabulous views of the harbour below.

Weather tends to be bright and sunny, however sometimes it can be cloudy with a few spells of rain. Average highs in July are around 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

Teesside international airport (previously Durham) is the closest airport however the town is also well connected by trains.

Lavina says, “ The Resolution hotel is one of the top recommended hotels to stay in Whitby.”

Isle of Islay, Scotland

Ela & Beata from Stunning Outdoors

Isle of Islay , the southern-most island of Inner Hebrides in Scotland, is one of the best spots in the UK for summer getaways. When many places across Great Britain become busy with summer holidays , Islay does not as it is a bit off the radar. It doesn’t have the hype of Isle of Skye and is more difficult to reach than Isle of Arran.

Islay is known as “whisky island”. Start at Port Ellen for a whisky themed tour and head to one of the nine world class Islay distilleries. Each distillery offers something unique, starting with the taste of its whisky and then, touring its facilities.

If you love nature, there are many beautiful beaches (like Machir Bay), stunning coastal trails and lovely rural roads for cyclists. In addition, it is a paradise for wildlife, in particular seals, wild geese and other migrating birds. Visit Loch Gruinart Nature Reserve, home to almost fifty thousand wild geese, to observe the wildlife.

Like many Scottish islands, Islay enjoys temperature around 61F or 16C in July, with almost 17hrs of daylight (daylight, not sunshine!). July is relatively dry, with around 3″ or 77.5mm of rain.

To get to Islay, it is best to fly to Glasgow, and either take a domestic flight to Islay or a bus to Kennacraig, followed by a 2 hrs ferry journey. Alternatively drive from Glasgow to Kennacraig, which in summer could take up to 3hrs.

Ela & Beata say, “Both Glenegedale House, located between Port Ellen or Bowmore, and Port Charlotte Hotel, located in Port Charlotte, are good options.”

Liverpool, England

By Dan from Urban Abroad

Liverpool is not usually the first city that comes to mind when deciding on the best summer trips in the United Kingdom, but there any many reasons why it is worth checking out.

Liverpool is not only the home to the legendary music band, the Beatles, but it’s also where you can visit the ‘Beatles story’, a museum located in the city centre. At this permanent exhibition, you walk through lifelike sets that are designed to take you on the Beatle’s musical journey.

From there, you can see the Liver building which is an iconic landmark known for its appearance in the film, Batman. It stands at over 320 feet tall (98.2 m) and has two fabled Liver Birds that watch over the city and the docks.

No trip to Liverpool would be complete without a trip to Royal Albert Docks, one of the best  free things to do in Liverpool . These historical dockyards have been transformed into the social center of the city with fantastic restaurants like Smugglers Cove and the famous Tate Liverpool art gallery.

The summer season is by far the best time to visit Liverpool for walking around the city centre and making the most of the outdoors. Average highs are 67F but can reach mid 70s on a warm day. There are 8 days with some rain.

You can fly into Liverpool (John Lennon Airport) and easily get the train to the city centre. If you are travelling from the airport by car, it takes around 30 minutes.

Dan says, “ Hotel Pullman is a great place to stay for sea views and to get easy access to the city center.”

Durdle Door, England

By Theo from Waffles And Lamingtons

When British summers are in full swing, it’s time to act as a local and flock to one of the countries many coastlines. If you’re lucky enough to be in the south of England, where the weather tends to be at the countries best, then you’re in for a treat. Well-noted as a true area of natural beauty, Durdle Door, the poster image of the Jurassic Coast , is without doubt one of the best places in Great Britain in July.

While the main thing to do at Durdle Door is to marvel at the natural arch from the comfort of your towel, there are fortunately a bunch of other activities to keep you busy.

Take a short walk over the hill to Lulworth Cove to enjoy its fascinating shape and bright blue water. Afterwards, head over to the town which offers a wonderful selection of pubs to settle in for a traditional British lunch. After settling your hunger, try a bit more activity.

Consider hiking along the coastal cliffs ticking off the several peaks that provide splendid views over the famous white limestone cliffs. Alternatively, hire a paddle board and view these cliffs from a different perspective. Either way, you’re in for magnificent views.

The average high temperature at Durdle Door is 69 degree Fahrenheit. There is approximately 7 days of rain during the month, but the rainfall tends to be short.

Bournemouth is the closest international airport with only a 45 minute drive to Durdle Door. Alternatively, fly into any airport in London and drive 3 hours.

Theo says, “ For a truly local spot looking right onto the picturesque Durdle Door, then stay at the ‘Water Sky at Durdle Door’. It’ll be hard to beat the views anywhere along the Jurassic Coast in the counties of Dorset and Devon.” 

Holy Island of Lindisfarne, England

By Tracy from Travels In Time

There are some wonderful places to visit and  stay on the Northumberland Coast  including many seaside towns and fishing villages but one of the most special is the Holy Island of Lindisfarne (or Holy Island as it is simply called by locals).

Lindisfarne is recognised as one of the earliest Christian sites in England. Between 710 and 725, monks on the island produced the Lindisfarne Gospels, which are considered to be among the most important medieval works of art.

Although Holy Island is only three miles long, one and a half miles wide and has a population of less than three hundred, it welcomes over five hundred thousand visitors annually.

Holy Island is a tidal island which means it can only be reached during times of low tide. It is therefore important to check the tides before planning a visit.

There are a number of attractions to visit on the island. At Lindisfarne Priory and Museum learn the history of the priory and St Cuthbert before heading into the Priory Museum. There are examples of Anglo Saxon stonework on show.

Another must see on the island is Lindisfarne Castle which was built in 1550. The castle offers stunning views over the Northumberland Coast towards Bamburgh Castle and the Farne Islands. Although converted into a private holiday home in the early 20th century the castle now belongs to the National Trust.

Located on the north east coast does mean that the island gets its fair share of wind and rain. In July average temperatures are around 17 degrees (low 60s F) but it can also be rainy (with an average 24 days of rain) so it pays to prepare ahead. On hot summer days a cool sea fret can also affect the coastline which can drop temperatures quite considerably too.

Holy Island can be reached from either Newcastle or Edinburgh International Airports. Drive time from Newcastle is around 1 hour and 1 hour 30 minutes from Edinburgh.

Tracy says, “ If you plan to stay on Holy Island for a night or two to relax and enjoy the island there are limited options – The Manor House or the Crown and Anchor Inn – so do book in advance.

Haworth Village, England

By Tammy from Travelling Tam

Haworth is a romantic stone village near Bradford in West Yorkshire, most famous for being home to the literary siblings the Bronte Sisters. They took much inspiration for their novels from the surrounding wild landscape.

One of the most popular things to do in  Haworth during a day trip  (or longer) is to uncover the lives of the fascinating sisters at the Bronte Parsonage Museum where the family lived and penned many of their works. The museum houses many personal belongings, first edition books and even the desk where many of their novels were written. Next door is the St Michael and All Angels Church where the Bronte family is buried.

Aside from wandering the cobbled streets and fantastic cute shops in Haworth, you can also get some fresh air by walking to the Bronte Waterfalls. You can do this in around 2 hours. You can also take a longer circular route encompassing other nearby landmarks such as Bronte Bridge and Little Laithe Reservoir.

In winter, the wind-swept moorland scenery and stone houses are atmospheric. However, it’s in the summer when the green leafiness of the trees and bright sunshine really show off Haworth at its best.

The area is exposed and often chilly but July is the best time for great weather. You’ll get a lower chance of rain (only 10 days) and highs in the low 70s.

The nearest airport is Leeds Bradford about 40 minutes away. You will need to hire a car and drive to Haworth village.

Tamara says, “Haworth can get busy with families during the school holidays, so it is best to go at the beginning of July if possible.

There are an abundance of cute B&B’s and hotels in Haworth. It is well worth staying for at least a weekend to absorb the charming nature of the town. Every building is historic but Ashmont Country House, with its stunning English country gardens, will truly make you feel like you’re living in the pages of a Wuthering Heights novel.”

Cromer, England

By Izzy & Phil from The Gap Decaders

Cromer is a traditional seaside town on the beautiful  North Norfolk Coast . Surrounded by an area of outstanding natural beauty and enjoying a long sandy stretch of beach, Cromer is a great family holiday destination. It is only one of the best beach vacation destinations to visit in the UK in July.

One of the best things to do in Cromer is hang out at the blue flag beach. Safe for kids, the beach is popular for swimming and surfing, and there’s always lots going on along the sands. Kids will love beach cricket or volleyball, building sand-castles and even rock pooling when the tide is out. If the sunshine lets you down, it’s a the perfect spot for flying a kite! 

The beach is dominated by the Cromer Pier, a beautiful Victorian wrought iron structure. You can catch a show at the pier end theatre, visit the fascinating RNLI lifeboat station, and my favourite, go crabbing. The Cromer Crab (it’s actually a brown crab!) is abundant in the waters of the coast here. With a locally bought line, a bit of bait (they like bacon, who knew?) and a bucket, you’ll have a whole crab menagerie in just a few hours!

Once you’ve caught your crabs (and thrown back, of course), you can head into town for a taste of the sweet fleshy meat. It is dressed in local cafes and restaurants and traditionally served with a simple salad. 

Afterwards, take a wander along the promenade to enjoy Cromer’s collection of colourful wooden beach huts on the east side of the beach. They can be rented on a weekly basis. At the far end of the huts, you’ll find on the far side of the sea wall Banksy’s art called “Cromer Crabs”. Look carefully though, it’s really quite small! 

If you enjoy a longer walk, keep heading east until you reach the lighthouse up on the cliffs of Cromer Ridge. You can take a wander around before heading back into town for a Norfolk cream tea. 

Norfolk is one of the driest counties in England, so the chances are you’ll see quite a bit of sunshine if you visit Norfolk in summer. Average highs are 68 degrees Fahrenheit but temperatures can reach mid 70s.

London Stansted or Norwich airports serve Norfolk, with the drive time being two hours from Stansted and just 30 minutes from Norwich.

Izzy & Phil say, “ One there, it’s a wonderful place for camping, with back to nature Cromer Camping making a great place to pitch your tent.”

The United Kingdom offers an amazing selection of towns, cities, beaches and national parks that are wonderful vacation destinations in July. Whether you prefer the quiet solitude of small towns and hard to reach islands, or you would rather feel the energy of a large city, England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have something for everyone. With some of the best weather all year round, July is the perfect time to plan your next holiday.

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The 13 Best Places to Go in the U.K. in 2023

By Condé Nast Traveller

This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2023 —find more ideas on where to travel in the year ahead in India , Spain , the U.S. , and beyond.

Every winter, we look ahead to the upcoming year and consider which destinations—of the many, many beautiful places across the world —we'll see travelers flocking to. As part of our Best Places To Go series , we shine a spotlight on the destinations in the world, as well as the United States , India, Spain, and the United Kingdom that are set to have a real moment in 2023, thanks to splashy hotel openings, foodie awakenings, or cultural moments that the whole world will be watching. 

This list—curated by our expert contributors—is an edit of cities, regions, and counties across the U.K. that should be on your radar right now. From Manchester's new museums to Glasgow's slew of slated hotel openings via conservation initiatives in Inverness and the sparkly arrival of Eurovision in Liverpool, these are the 13 best places to go in the U.K. in 2023, in no particular order. Happy travels. 

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.  

Manchester, England

As the world’s first industrial city, Manchester has always been about redbrick urbanity and vocal street culture, but in 2022 something changed: it got greener. While the 154 acres of RHS Garden Bridgewater bedded in nicely outside the Salford village of Worsley, with its walled-garden microclimate, more vital greenery arrived in the city center as Castlefield Viaduct became Manchester’s answer to the New York High Line , seeding cotton grass, ferns, fennel, and broom along over a thousand feet of former Victorian rail track. And right next to Piccadilly Station, Mayfield Park —the city’s first new park in a century—opened on a derelict brownfield site with meadows, trees, and play areas alongside the River Medlock. So it seems apt that its latest hotel, Treehouse Hotel Manchester , is a celebration of biophilic design, with bee hives in the roof gardens and living walls. The sustainability-minded Treehouse , which opens in spring near Selfridges, will also have a zero-waste restaurant, hopscotch carpets, and a rooftop bar from local DJs-turned-restaurateurs the Unabombers. When it comes to diversity, Manchester Museum is reopening after a major revamp with galleries devoted to the city’s Asian disapora—including a South Asia gallery curated by 31 people from the continent, telling stories such as the day Gandhi visited the mills of Darwen in Lancashire. Other openings include the Fashion Gallery at Manchester Art Gallery , and the Co-op Live music venue in the NOMA area, along with a TBA debut by Soho House ; but the most anticipated is Factory International in June, its name inspired by the city’s genre-breaking record label. Set on the site of Granada Studios, this primetime cultural space will help host the Manchester International Festival and carve out its own identity with Free Your Mind , a kinetic multi-media performance based on the Matrix films, and the largest ever immersive installation from Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, entitled You, Me, and the Balloons . You can toast the polka-dotting artist with one of the tasting menus at MUSU , a theatrical new Japanese restaurant on Bridge Street from chef patron Michael Shaw, where dining booths transform at night into cocktail-club tables for floor shows.

A Welsh foodie renaissance has, admittedly, taken a while to arrive. But a new generation of chefs are digging into their terroir and emerging with handfuls of truffles, scallops, and cheeses, from James Sommerin’s Home restaurant in Penarth, to SY23 in seaside Aberystwyth, headed by Great British Menu finalist Nathan Davies. There’s also been the rise of hard-to-reach destination restaurants determinedly doing their own thing, such as Annwn in deepest Pembrokeshire, where Matt Powell forages most of his ingredients from the shoreline, and Gareth Ward’s Ynyshir in the Dyfi Valley , which was just awarded a second Michelin star. Ward’s empire will grow in 2023 with the opening of eight-seat Gwen—named after his mother—with sourdough pizzas on the menu. Paternoster Farm , meanwhile, set in a former Pembroke cowshed, is doing wondrous things with Porthilly oysters, Welsh Mountain lamb, and sea beet—with its Five Mile Feasts, a special menu, gathering up all sorts of local treasures. 

In Cardigan, the Albion Aberteifi —certainly the coolest hotel to arrive in Wales in years—is set to open a Scandi-Japanese restaurant on the river bank in 2023, along with a woodland onsen and spa. Wales seems to be turning into a hub for the UK’s thriving outdoor sauna scene: Snowdonia-based Heartwood Saunas is launching a new forest project this December, where groups of up to 10 can use a wood-fired sauna before jumping in the pools of the River Dulas (or head to the yoga deck), all while surrounded by old oak trees and natural pools. In Carmarthenshire, the seven-mile stretch of Pendine Sands is enjoying a revival. Caban hotel is opening in the spring alongside the Museum of Speed , which celebrates the many land-speed records made on the beach—including one by actor Idris Elba in a Bentley Continental GT. Reducing the speed a notch, a new slow-travel route of roads and walking paths, The Wild Drovers’ Way , unfurls over 180 miles from the foothills of the Cambrians into the Brecon Beacons—a lovely way to appreciate some of Wales’ rural highlights.

If you need somewhere to toast all this, you could head to Swansea, where Penderyn will open its new whisky-distillery experience in March; or to Ynyshir, where Gareth Ward opened The Legless Thatch next to his restaurant last summer. The fun continues in Cardiff, where the St Fagans Museum of National History has been rebuilding the iconic Vulcan pub (beloved of Manic Street Preachers) on its grounds, set to open in 2024. Lechyd da!

Bath, England

“Who can ever be tired of Bath ?” wrote Jane Austen in Northanger Abbey , and over two centuries on, this phrase still rings true. The grand Regency façades, the gurgling River Avon, and the intricate web of streets that lead toward the grandeur of the famed Royal Crescent, looking down over the honey-hued architecture, makes for an enchanting visit year-in, year-out. For 2023 though, Somerset’s biggest city—and the home of many Bridgerton filming locations—has filled its calling cards with new openings of particular note. Cleveland Pools , the U.K.’s only surviving Georgian lido and its oldest outdoor pool, will re-open for the first time in four decades after a major refurb, flanked by meadows on one side and the original changing rooms on the other. 8 Holland Street , a gallery space and studio—which gets its name from its original sibling by the same name perched between London's Notting Hill and High Street Kensington neighborhoods—is taking its dedication to living among good design one step further in 2023 and launching a new three-bedroom luxury townhouse above its public space for staycationers who want to really immerse themselves in Bath’s culture scene. Elsewhere, various new restaurant openings, including The Beckford Canteen , headed up by former Fischer’s and Cora Pearl chef George Barson, will join a smorgasbord of much-loved eateries. Finally, offering visitors new opportunities to soak up the city’s heritage of wellness, a new festival of wellbeing will launch in the spa city too. ReBalance Bath (February 7 – 26, 2023) will bring together venues, hotels, spa therapists, and restaurants for three weeks of feel-good activities in, from mindfulness and yoga to sound baths and foraging sessions.

Glasgow, Scotland

Music in all its forms flows through and defines Glasgow as surely as the River Clyde itself. The Celtic Connections festival has grown to become an integral part not only of the city’s music scene but of the world’s music scene. In January 2023, the festival celebrates its 30th birthday. Look out, too, for talks, tie-ins, and spin-off events at the same time, not least those at the splendid Kelvingrove Museum (such as  Love of Print , which runs until March 12 and celebrates 50 years of Glasgow Print Studio ). Later in the year, the UCI Cycling World Championships will take place. The largest cycling event in history, they say. Impressive as that may be, the fixture is a Johnny-come-lately compared to the Scotland v England football match in September at Hampden Park to mark the 150th anniversary of the world’s oldest international dispute over an inflated pigskin bladder. The Burrell Collection— one of the world’s greatest single-collector collections—reopened in 2022 after a very long, very expensive and, as it turned out, very successful refurbishment. The first temporary exhibition since the museum’s reopening, The Burrells’ Legacy: A Great Gift to Glasgow , will remain on show until April 16. There’s been a lot of talk in recent times about Glasgow’s supercharged food-and-drink scene—Michelin stars seem to be shooting all over the place and AA rosettes popping up like, well, roses. The 2023 guide contains no fewer than 15 entries under a Glasgow heading, ranging from the immaculate (Cail Bruich, Unalome) to the merely irresistible (Rickshaw & Co, GaGa Kitchen). Where to stay? The Kimpton Blythswood Square is a perennial favorite, and its Scandi-inspired pop-up spa, Thaw, may very well see the hotel booked solid through the winter months. With any luck, the long-anticipated Virgin Hotel will open in early 2023 (if its sister property in Edinburgh is anything to go by, it should be great fun); as will the House of Gods which promises, by Zeus, to deliver a divine thunderbolt of louche, sleepless, neon-lit, velvet-upholstered decadence.

Hannah Towey

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Steph Koyfman

Eastbourne, England

In the last few years, Eastbourne has brushed off its erstwhile sleepy image to emerge as the latest up-coming coastal hotspot to watch. And nothing signals the of-the-moment creative buzz here more than Towner Eastbourne, a major player on the local gallery scene. It will celebrate its centenary with Towner 100—a year of exhibitions that includes a summer show dedicated to Barbara Hepworth and, from September, the Turner Prize (it’s the first time the contemporary art award has been held in Sussex). In January, Scandi-style Port —which turned the idea of a classic seaside stay on its head when it opened in 2021—is tapping into the trend for pop-up beach saunas by collaborating with Samphire Sauna , a wood-fired wellness experience in a converted horse stable. For the full heat and cold-water therapy circuit, alternate sweating with quick dips in the sea, which can be followed up with brunch in the hotel restaurant. And, while regular visitors might be familiar with long-established events such as the annual Rothesay International Eastbourne tennis tournament (known as a warm-up for Wimbledon) and Airborne , a spectacular air show where the likes of the Red Arrows soar high above the seafront in a two-mile display, there are also newer, sillier additions to the calendar too—as witnessed in the increasingly popular Soapbox Race . The third iteration will see competitors once again create their own homemade soapbox racing karts and take on a downhill course navigating tight corners, ramps, and hay bales around the town.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Known for being home to the biggest arts festival in the world, Edinburgh is naturally a performer’s paradise. But outside of the Fringe, the Scottish capital consistently lures in visitors for its famously picturesque streets, world-renowned historical hotspots, and ever-expanding food and drink scene. Lavish dining is easy to come by in the city, with three restaurants— Condita ,  The Kitchin , and  Martin Wishart —awarded Michelin stars in 2022. But newer openings like the laid-back  Palmerston , delightful restaurant/wine bar  Eleanore , or wonderfully cavernous  Newbarns Brewery Taproom  all highlight the variety and quality on offer in all neighborhoods. Elsewhere,  Bonnie & Wild's Scottish Marketplace  in the recently opened  St James Quarter  celebrates both Scottish produce and independent businesses, with everything from mouth-watering burgers courtesy of El Perro Negro to artisan gelato via Joelato. London’s iconic  Duck & Waffle  is also set to open its first Scottish restaurant in the building, while the 12-story  W Edinburgh  hotel, with its striking façade crafted from a winding steel ‘ribbon’, is due imminently on the same premises. 

In the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town, you can get a taste of Perthshire’s celebrated Gleneagles Hotel thanks to the new  Gleneagles Townhouse . The hotel and members' club provides elegance and grandeur, with pastel-toned furnishings and modern touches offering added levels of comfort. In 2023, the Red Carnation group are also due to open their first Scottish hotel,  100 Princes Street , with respectful renovations of the original building enhanced by Alexander McQueen-inspired interiors. In the world of art, meanwhile, 2023 looks to be a significant year in the city as the revamp of the  Scottish National Gallery  will officially be complete, following years of construction work. The new suite of galleries are set to include large windows and views across Princes Street Gardens, with displays made up of art from the National Galleries of Scotland’s collections as well as loans from other leading arts institutions.

Kent, England

Kent has long been a holiday hot spot with its plump oysters, artistic communities, and blazing sunsets. But the buzz around its seaside towns has now grown impressively loud, with a slew of brand new exciting openings catering for the increasing influx of curious visitors and new creative residents. As usual, Margate, a town on England’s southeast coast, is leading the charge. Well worth a visit is atmospheric Parisian-style wine bar  Sète  run by the team behind Barletta, the lovely Turner Contemporary gallery restaurant—their garden is opening in spring 2023 and will be the go-to place come summer. But where to rest your head after one too many glasses of Beaujolais Nouveau? Until recently there’s been a distinct lack of smart places to stay if you want to turn a day trip into a weekender or longer. Luckily, there’s a new wave of food-focused hotels opening across the county. First came Fort Road Hotel , an elegant revival of a seafront institution with mid-mod rooms, a playful bistro headed up by an ex-River Cafe chef Daisy Cecil, and a rooftop bar with views over the harbor arm. Following on, Guesthouse has snapped up another seafront stunner right on the main sands and will be opening No 42 in spring 2023 with a restaurant, spa, and roof terrace. Alongside Margate, the town of Deal has also secured must-visit status thanks to Nuno Mendes crafting the much-lauded menu at The Rose and the recent opening of Updown , an impeccably restored 17th-century farmhouse with rooms and a hyper-local farm restaurant just 15 minutes drive from the sea. For a more rural break, Boys Hall will open in a restored Jacobean manor house near Ashford. Perfect as a base to explore Kent or just to eat your way around the county at their restaurant celebrating seasonal Kentish produce.

Inverness, Scotland

Think of the Scottish Highlands and the imagination grasps for craggy-faced mountains, empty moorlands, and roller-coasting glens, a landscape tailor-made for slow travel . But thoughtful progress here is moving at a fast pace and Inverness—and its surrounding matrix of lochs and wild lands—is gaining worldwide recognition for a number of thrilling reasons. There’s excitement around the spring opening of the world’s first rewilding center west of Loch Ness in Glenmoriston, now home to more than 4,000 native animal and plant species on eco-charity  Trees for Life ’s reconquered Dundreggan Estate. That buzz is also translated farther north in Dornoch, where new thermal imaging safaris from  Connell Outdoor Pursuits  provide remarkable insights into the late-night lives of deer, badgers, and, most joyously of all, rarely-seen pine martens. In Inverness itself, along the river, at pink-sandstone  Inverness Castle , an era-defining regeneration project that began in 2020 is transforming the fortress—until it reopens, the views from the ramparts unspool across the city to where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth. Perhaps, the greatest praise should be reserved for family-run  Newhall Mains  on the Black Isle peninsula—the 18th-century farm estate is now fully up to speed, with razzmatazz apartments, spoiling cottages, and its own private airfield half an hour from Inverness. Come mid-summer, expect a similar sort of resurrection in seaside Dornoch, where  Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts  is to revive Dornoch Station hotel, an altar for golfers on the doorstep of the long ascendant  Royal Dornoch  championship course and wildly popular  North Coast 500 .

Liverpool, England

Liverpool’s reputation for putting on a good show is about to be put to the test in 2023, with the Grand Final of the 67th  Eurovision Song Contest  taking place at the Liverpool Arena next to the River Mersey on Saturday, May 13. The city’s music scene was catapulted into the global spotlight when The Beatles reached international stardom in the 1960s, with music venues such as  The Cavern Club  playing host to acts including Gerry & the Pacemakers, Cilla Black, and Queen. Today, live music remains at the center of the city’s cultural heart, and brand new venues including  BOXPARK —housed in the old Cains Brewery—and Johnny Cash-inspired dive bar  Mean-Eyed Cat  promise to add to Liverpool’s packed events calendar in 2023. Meanwhile, planning is well underway for  Baltic Weekender 2023 , a multi-genre, multi-venue festival in the  Baltic Triangle , one of the city’s most artistic and up-and-coming neighborhoods. Complementing Liverpool’s status as a cultural hub is the city’s huge array of leading food and drink venues, from the religiously-seasonal  Manifest Restaurant  to Gary Usher’s  Wreckfish Bistro  and the nearby  Art School Restaurant —all of which have been named in the prestigious AA Restaurant Guide 2023. All eyes will be on Dale Street in the coming months as a  new hotel  nears completion following a two-year, $40-million plus heritage refurbishment of the historic Municipal Buildings. First built in 1868, the restored facade of the stunning grade II-listed Victorian building was recently unveiled after more than 12 months under wraps—a welcome (re)addition to the city’s thriving hospitality scene.

Yorkshire, England

Immortalized by E​​mily Brontë's fantasized vision of the Yorkshire Moors in  Wuthering Heights , Yorkshire ’s heritage is one of equi-rough and smooth. Rugged landscapes and a history of industry and tough materials mix with literature and an ever-evolving art scene that has churned out countless greats—from David Hockney and Barbara Hepworth to renowned sculptor Henry Moore—to create a heady, boundary-pushing mix of man-made and natural beauty. And the region has a food scene to match. In fact, the AA Restaurant Guide 2023 has marked North Yorkshire as only second to London in terms of its quantity of high-quality restaurants, meaning that memorable dining is only ever a few streets away here. From The Black Swan at Oldstead , a Michelin-starred restaurant with rooms on the edge of the North York Moors belonging to celebrity chef Tommy Banks (who also owns Roots in York, also Michelin-starred, offering a seasonal farm-to-table tasting menu in an 1800s building) to The Hare Inn , a 12th-century property on the North York Moors which won Restaurant with Rooms of the Year. Outside of the vibrant culinary scene, Yorkshire’s chocolate-box towns, magnificent Yorkshire Dales National Park (a rich tapestry of thousands of square miles of moors, valleys, and undulating peaks), and vibrant cultural scene weaves together enough of a draw on its own. Leeds, for example, has been named the City of Culture for 2023, and as such will host a year-long celebration, with 12 signature events and a multitude of creative experiences peppered throughout the year for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.

Mayfair, England

Including London in a list like this feels almost like cheating—in any given year, there are of course a handful of exciting new openings scattered across the U.K.'s capital. Now is no different: there are smart hotels cropping up from a shiny new Six Senses to the long-awaited opening of Raffles London at the OWO . But it's splashy, sexy neighborhood Mayfair that seems to have taken the crown for London's most exciting corner in 2023. The opening of Mandarin Oriental Hanover Square , a diminutive sister space to stalwart Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park , will breathe new life into the area come spring. Michelin-tipped chef Akira Back will helm the restaurant here, and a slick spa will round out the property's wellness offering. Elsewhere, the U.K.'s first-ever St. Regis hotel will open around the corner on Berkeley Square (home of the famed members' club Annabel's). Taking over what was once The Westbury, the St. Regis team are currently overseeing an over $100 million makeover, which includes adding a jazz bar, a spa, and, curiously, an eighth floor. Mayfair has always been a hub for discerning food lovers, and 2023 will also see the opening of a handful of attention-grabbing restaurants. As well as flagship spots in both the Mandarin Oriental and St. Regis, Claude Bosi (of Bibendum fame) will open Socca with Samyukta Nair, the woman behind Jamavar and Bombay Bustle, while Tom Sellers, chef-patron of Michelin-starred Restaurant Story , will open a second spot in Mayfair's 1 Hotel. And those hungry for culture will be delighted by the Center for British Photography , which will open in January in 8,000 square feet of space over three floors just off Piccadilly.

Peak District, England

It may have been the first area of the U.K. to be decreed a national park way back in 1951, but the Peak District has long played second fiddle to the Lakes and the Cotswolds when it comes to superior hotels amid the greatest natural splendor that this island can offer. No longer. The opening of Wildhive Callow Hall is an effortlessly cool re-think of what a traditional country house can be in 2023. Treehouses in the Derbyshire estate’s bucolic woodland and a shepherds hut peeking coquettishly over the hillside provide a genuine sense of luxurious isolation (complete with kitchens, a walk-in shower, and a wet room) but if you prefer being only a staircase away from the action then the main house delivers with its colossal beds, and flashes of contemporary art all curated by in-demand interior designer Isabella Worsley. A sustainably and locally sourced menu created by chef David Bucowicki hits all the right notes in dishes like stalkers pie filled with venison and peas pudding and carver duck with pressed celeriac. You’ll need to traverse the hills for a fair bit to walk all the calories off and perhaps Chatsworth House is a little far on foot at a solid 20 miles or so. But close to the most famed country house in Britain comes, in spring 2023, the second offering from the Bike and Boot concept, which shook up Scarborough’s staid hotel scene on opening last year with a funky color scheme and pared-back style. The second location is around a 20-minute drive from Chatsworth and looks set to follow the Scarborough model in being a major draw to hikers and bikers who don’t want to rough it; with dog grooming facilities, bike storage, and cleaning spaces and rooms bedecked in most un-hiker like hues and textures of orange, velvet, and purple.

Holywood, Northern Ireland

Pronounced the same as its Angeleno namesake, the Northern Ireland Holywood, has always been the place to live for Belfast ’s well-heeled denizens with its Victorian mansions and views of the Lough. Despite being just five miles from the center of the city, it feels like its own place and has recently been attracting a growing wave of returnees eager to avail of its small-town, seaside living. Holywood’s new energy can be found along the pleasing jumble of a High Street; browse at Chapters Bookstore , sip a glass of natural wine, and order small plates involving ingredients like purple sprouting broccoli and fermented spelt at Frae , or brunch at the plant-based Lynchpin , run by ex-Angelsea Arms chef, Joe McGowan, in a bar once run by his grandmother. Don’t let the friendly, neighborhood feel deceive you—people travel for a table at Noble . The food is parochial in the best possible way using Northern Ireland’s finest ingredients—the rare breed, Moiled Irish beef and duck fat chips are, as the locals would say, pure class. Then there are cobweb-blowing-out walks along the 16-mile North Down Coastal Path that threads its way past sea, sand, and big skies through Crawfordsburn Country Park ending at St. Helen’s Bay. Here, hardy swimmers can join the locals, who sometimes include Holywood-born actor, Jamie Dornan, braving the bone-chilling waters—on a clear day you can see Scotland .

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller U.K.

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Beautiful places, safe spaces: the best UK holidays this summer

Hotels, campsites – and campervan rentals – are planning to reopen on 4 July. Here’s our pick of scenic staycations away from the crowds

A summer holiday abroad still looks like a distant possibility for Britons. The government advice against all but essential overseas travel remains in place, and rules that came into force on 8 June require anyone arriving in the UK – including British nationals – to quarantine for 14 days. A group of 500 travel and hospitality bosses says it has been given private assurance by government sources that “travel corridors” will be in place by the end of June, meaning that UK holidaymakers returning from low-risk countries won’t have to self-isolate , but at the time of going to press that had not been made public.

That’s the bad news for holidaymakers. The good news is that this really is likely to be the summer of the “great British staycation”. It’s a phrase that’s bandied about every year, but it’s never been more fitting. Campsites, cottages and hotels are preparing to reopen on 4 July in England and 20 July in Northern Ireland, subject to government confirmation. Dates have yet to be confirmed in Wales and Scotland, but accommodation providers are gearing up for a possible July reopening there too – lockdown measures are being reviewed on 18 June (Scotland) and 19 June (Wales). 

Ed Bassett of Camptoo , a campervan rental company, says: “Once lockdown has been lifted in the UK, I expect staycations and camping to be many people’s first-choice travel option. After long stretches spent indoors, I think Brits will take advantage of exploring closer to home.”

Some larger companies have reported an increase in inquiries and bookings for accommodation in England in July and August since reopening was first mentioned by Boris Johnson in a speech on 10 May. According to Cool Camping, the number of bookings made in the last two weeks of May for its 600 UK campsites was almost double that for the same period last year. Its most popular regions are Cornwall, Devon, the Lake District and Dorset – so it could be worth looking elsewhere for quieter spots. Demand is continuing to increase as the reopening date gets closer – traffic to the Kip Hideaways ’ website, which features small self-catering properties, has tripled over the past two weeks. But people are warier of booking holidays to Scotland and Wales at this stage.

Elysian Estates , which has country houses to rent across England and Scotland, has noticed an increased demand for longer stays (a week or more) over short breaks, as customers give up on going abroad. And, with swimming baths still closed, the number one prerequisite for guests is a private pool – nine out of 10 say they wouldn’t book a property without one. Independent Cottages also reports an increase in inquiries for properties with pools, hot tubs and on-site fishing.

But the staycation situation is still uncertain. Individual owners, such as Oliver Muntz of Umberslade campsite near Warwick, says their bookings do not reflect the trend reported by the larger collections. Muntz says bookings are slow and holidaymakers are anxious about safety.

Jonathan Knight, Cool Camping’s founder, is calling for confirmation of the reopening dates, “which campsite owners desperately need, to be able to plan ahead and save their season, or in some cases save their business”. Knight would also like official guidance on how to reopen safely. His concerns are echoed by Martin Smith of  Campsites.co.uk , who says: “Campsite owners don’t know if shower facilities are safe to open and what provisions they must put in place to protect their customers. They need clear and definitive government advice to open safely this summer.” As things stand, businesses are planning their own measures, from cleaning regimes, physical distancing policies and takeaway food, to no-quibble refunds.

The  Cool Camping  website lists more than 700 campsites that are implementing social distancing measures, as well as 100 campsites with at least 10 metres between pitches. One that ticks both boxes is the Birds and Bees Campsite (reopening 9 July, from £36 a night for two) in the Alde valley, Suffolk. There are just 15 pitches across three meadows, each with half an acre of space and a firepit. Giant hedges, mature tree and wildflower plots attract insects and birds – hence the name – and wind turbines and solar panels help generate electricity and heat the showers.

Farmstay UK  lists about 700 farms that offer accommodation, including camping. Brook Meadow  (from £13 a night for two ) is a 400-acre working farm in the Leicestershire/Northamptonshire countryside, with 20 acres set aside for camping and glamping, and a five-acre fishing lake. The pick of the pitches are right by the lake. Clippesby Hall  (from £32 a night for two) is a family-run holiday park in the Norfolk Broads, a short drive from the 15-mile-long beach at Great Yarmouth. There are eight areas for camping and caravans, including the Dell, a tents-only area in the woods. Bikes can be hired on site to explore the quiet lanes around the Broads. 

Sperrinview Glamping (from £100 a night for five) is a new glampsite at the foot of the Sperrin Mountains in County Tyrone. Each of the four pods has a large triangular viewing window (the area is a dark sky site), two double beds and a sofa bed, a kitchenette, a shower room, and a firepit and barbecue. The Beaghmore Stone Circles are 500 metres away and it is a mile to the mountain bike trails at Davagh Forest. 

Cool Stays lists hundreds of glampsites and unusual places to stay in the UK, including Birdholme Glamping (four adults and two children from £260 a night) in Stanton on the Wolds, Nottinghamshire. There are four safari lodges on stilts in 17 acres of woodland and meadow, each with a woodburner and a veranda with a hot tub.

Londoners don’t have far to go for a glamping break: Home Farm Glamping in Elstree, Hertfordshire (from £120 for two adults for two nights, or £180 for two adults and two children) is a 10-minute taxi ride from the end of the Jubilee and Northern lines. There are nine bell tents and three yurts in a meadow on a 60-hectare farm, all with barbecues and firepits.

• Self-catering

The Landmark Trust, which restores historic buildings and rents them to holidaymakers, has been housing NHS key workers during lockdown. It is now preparing to reopen properties to the public, such as the  House of Correction  in Lincolnshire (sleeps four, from £351 for four nights). This 19th-century gatehouse was once the grand entrance to a prison, and stands alone on the edge of the village of Folkingham. 

Forest Holidays has log cabins and treehouses in 10 forest locations across the UK, and its English sites reopen from 6 July. Cabins at the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire (sleeping two to 10, from £460 for four nights for six people) all have hot tubs on the deck, and some have woodburners and hammocks. A new site is opening in Delamere Forest, Cheshire, in November. 

Lots of Kip Hideaways ’ properties are far from other buildings, such as a converted engine house three miles from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, with its own walled garden(sleeps six, from £250 a night). Nearby Knettishall Heath, a nature reserve, has a wild swimming pool.

One Off Places has plenty of remote rentals, such as a converted barn near Reeth, North Yorkshire (sleeps two, from £500 for seven nights ). The barn is surrounded by moorland and there is no wifi or phone reception. 

Canopy & Stars specialises in places to stay and reconnect with nature, such as a beach cabin on stilts facing Mersea Island, Essex (from £100 a night for two adults and two children). The isolated cabin is on marshland by an estuary, ideal for birdwatchers and kayakers.

Many hotels are gearing up to reopen from early July, with preparations to protect the health and peace of mind of guests – including increased cleaning regimes, hand sanitiser units, and table- or room-service in place of breakfast buffets.

On the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, 20 minutes from the region’s wild coast, The Elmtree in Hundleby (B&B from £100) is due to reopen for a limited number of bookings from 4 July. The rural boutique B&B – a restored Georgian house with huge beds and slipper baths – will also be serving its famous afternoon tea and grazing platters for guests in their rooms.

Close to Grasmere in the Lake District, bistro with rooms The Yan (room-only from £100) is taking reservations for 5 July onwards (alongside its Broadrayne Farm self-catering holiday cottages). The converted 17th-century barn will serve its epic breakfasts and hearty dinners in the bistro – perfect after a long, muddy walk with the dog – with guest reservations taking priority (over external bookings) and the option of in-room service.

A short walk from the coast at Aldeburgh and Thorpeness, surrounded by private gardens and the Suffolk countryside, Five Acre Barn in Aldringham (room only from £100) is opening from 4 July. Each of the rooms at the B&B, a Riba award-winning 19th-century barn conversion, has its own lounge area, where breakfast and dinner can be served, and takeaways from elsewhere are welcome.

The Pig’s collection of six hotels in historic buildings around south and south-west England is due to reopen on 6 July. A seventh hotel at Harlyn Bay in north Cornwall (room-only from £150) is scheduled to open for the first time later in July. Restaurants in the hotels will operate at limited capacity, with tables reorganised to maintain social distancing.

As portable, private hideaways, campervans are set to be a popular choice for a UK break in 2020. A recent National Campervan Council survey found that 77% of people saw a UK motorhome break as an appealing option this year. Many are available to book from 4 July onwards, with online check-in, contactless pick-up, video tutorials in advance and extended gaps between bookings to allow for deep cleaning, along with flexible booking and fee-free date changes.

Many of   Quirky Campers ’ listings are converted sprinter vans, from Scandi-inspired in the Midlands to cabin-style with a wood burner on the north-east coast , and a broad variety of other bespoke, independently owned vehicles (from £75pn).

With 700 rentals across the UK,  Camplify ’s range includes restored 1970s VW campers; airstream-style trailers; modern motorhomes for large groups and more, many of which come with negotiable pick-up locations (prices from £35pn). Similarly,  Camptoo ’s 600 UK listings include a huge variety of styles and sizes, from classic caravans for two to fully integrated seven-berth vehicles (from £50pn).

New to the UK last year, one of Europe’s largest rental companies,  Indie Campers , says 62% of its UK bookings in May were for domestic breaks (compared with just 8% last year). Its fleet includes the modern Atlas and the Active models, available for summer. Each sleeps four, and includes a shower and toilet, with extras such as wifi and GPS ( from £100pn, picking up from Stanwell in Surrey).

• Summer holidays
• England holidays
• Northern Ireland holidays
• United Kingdom holidays
• Camping holidays

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The 15 best places to visit in the UK in 2024

From charming seaside spots to bustling cities, we’ve got all the staycation inspo you need right here

For all the bucket list places around the world, it can be easy to forget that we actually have some pretty amazing places to explore right here on our doorstep. Sure, the British weather can have a mind of its own and train travel can leave a lot to be desired, but if you’re willing to put up with all of that, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what there is to discover. 

From quaint coastal towns with trailblazing restaurants and bustling cities with an edge of their own, to gorgeous islands that feel nothing like the UK , these are the parts of the country that should hands-down be on your staycation wishlist for next year. These places have thriving food, drink and arts scenes, they’re home to exciting new openings and they have plenty of big events for you to scribble into your calendar, pronto. 

Thinking of planning a holiday a little closer to home next year? By sifting through all of the hottest launches for next year and using our expert knowledge of cultural scenes around the country,  Time Out’s UK team has curated the very best British destinations for you to plan a trip to in 2024. And the best part? Y ou can visit most of them easily, cheaply and without having to catch a flight. Time to get booking!

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best  things to do in the UK 🏖️ The best  seaside towns in the UK 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs in the UK

An email you’ll actually love

Where to visit in the UK in 2024

1.  Bristol

Should we really be surprised that (apparently) everyone is moving to Bristol ? Its cultural scene is just as exciting as London ’s, but it’s still only a short coach journey away; it has picture-perfect streets and bustling, diverse nightlife. And i n 2024, its arts offering is only getting better. A musical adaptation of the 2006 film ‘ Starter for Ten ’ is coming to the renowned Old Vic theatre from February 29 to March 30, while   DIASPORA! , a brand new festival showcasing BIPOC global ethnic majority artists – across theatre, dance, music, visual and digital arts, as well as poetry and spoken word – is launching in May.   Undershed , a new immersive gallery, is on track to launch in Spring, and   Boxhall   – a street food, beer and events space by the same people who behind London’s   Boxpark   – will also open its doors.   

The perfect day Start with grabbing a coffee from Clifton Coffee Roasters  before pottering around Gloucester Road and perusing the many shops (it’s the largest strip of independent retailers in Europe). Then, hop on a Bristol Ferry water bus tour  to see the city from the water . Finally, feast on a dinner of Spanish small plates at Bravas (or check out one of the city’s other excellent restaurants ), before heading out to rave the night away at one of the many DIY-style clubs . 

Plan your trip The 2024 edition of Bristol’s newest music festival, Forwards , takes place on August 31 and September 1. 2023 headliners included Aphex Twin, Erykah Badu and Raye .

📍 The best things to do in Bristol 🍴 The   best  restaurants in Bristol

2.  Hull

Hull became a surprising capital for the UK’s LGBTQ+ community in 2023. From  Monroe’s   to Unit 49 and Cherry’s – named after the late ‘Ru Paul’s Drag Race’ star Cherry Valentine – an influx of new gay bars and clubs means Hull’s new Freedom Quarter is slowly growing its ecosystem of queer-friendly spaces. As well as its thriving LGBTQ+ scene, in 2017 the East Yorkshire city was also named the city of culture. It’s got The Deep , an enormous aquarium with 3000 species, a picturesque old town which survived the city’s relentless WWII bombings, and lots of up and coming indie art galleries like Ground and Artlink . Don’t sleep on Hull.

The perfect day  Get your caffeine fix at Still. by Two Gingers Coffee before having a wonder around Hull’s charming old town or pottering in the shops at Hepworth’s Arcade . After that, head to indie events space Ground to check out whatever arty happenings they have on. Finally, stop for a pint at Ye Olde White Hart before heading to one of the infamous 13-hour parties (yes, really) at Gate No. 5 .

Plan your visit Pride in Hull will take place on July 29, 2024. 

📍 The best things to do in Hull

3.  Isles of Scilly

A lot of people say that the Isles of Scilly are the British version of the Caribbean – and you know what? We’d totally agree. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Cornwall is largely unspoilt, with white stretches of sandy beaches, turquoise waters and plenty of opportunities to go island hopping and dolphin spotting. But there’s more, too: head to the local museum to immerse yourself in the islanders’ deep sense of culture and tradition, sink yourself silly on local ales at seaside pubs or indulge your sense of adventure by snorkelling over the many under-the-sea shipwrecks. Bliss. 

The perfect day Travel to the islands by Skybus from Land’s End – it only takes 20 minutes, and there’s a gorgeous view. Once you arrive, make your way over to St Mary’s Riding Centre to take in the stunning scenery on horse-back. If that’s not your thing, hire bikes and explore the coastal trails of St. Mary’s islands before taking a transfer boat to St. Agnes to visit the Turks Head for a hearty pub lunch made using local ingredients. Once your food goes down? It has to be time for a swim.

Plan your trip The Isle of Scilly food festival is a ten-day celebration of local provenance taking place in September, with mouth-watering events like beach BBQs and vineyard tours.

📍 The best places to visit in Cornwall

4.  London

Ah, good old London . No matter how many times you’ve visited or how long you’ve lived there, you’ll always find new things to discover in the capital. There are a tonne of new restaurants to feast at, all sorts of gorgeous hotel openings and plenty of fresh cultural things to do. Most notably, in 2024, you can dance at Drumsheds , the mammoth warehouse club housed in a former IKEA, catch a blockbuster exhibition – like Yoko Ono at the Tate Modern or The World of Tim Burton at the Design Museum – and see epic new West End performances ( Mean Girls , anyone?).

The perfect day  For lunch, grab a delicious loaded sandwich at Dom’s Subs on Hackney Road for (or treat yourself to a boujee meal out at Morito ), before perusing the cute independent shops on Columbia Road and gawking over the even cuter animals at Hackney City Farm . Head over to Soho for a late-afternoon pint at the iconic French House , then round off your day with a delicious pre-theatre dinner at the newly opened Forza Wine at the National Theatre , before catching a play. 

Plan your trip Book tickets to see the stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s ‘ Spirited Away ’, taking place at the London Coliseum from April 30 until August 24.

📍 The best things to do in London 🍴 The best restaurants in London

5.  Belfast

The Norn Iron capital is criminally underrated. If you’re yet to discover its welcoming warmth and cultural vibrance, 2024 is the year to change that. Over the next twelve months Belfast has mega ambitions to deliver its biggest ever cultural celebration via a project dubbed ‘ Belfast 2024 ’. Set around the theme of ‘People, Place and Planet’, the whopping programme of 24 large-scale commissions and over 200 events, workshops and activities includes a collaboration with the Eden Project, a guerilla gardening scheme aimed at rewilding the peace walls in the west of the city and an immersive music showcase celebrating Belfast’s contemporary Black culture.

The perfect day Begin with a wholesome morning stroll through the Botanic Gardens , followed by a hefty brunch at Output . Then wander through the parliament buildings at Stormont and the monumental Titanic Belfast museum. In the evening, find your way to The Muddlers Club hidden within the historic back streets of the Cathedral Quarter, or if you’d rather eat in, order from cult favourite Mexican place Boojums . Round off the evening by grabbing a pint accompanied by some banging live music at the Dirty Onion .

Plan your trip  The cultural celebrations kick off from March and will run through to November. Make sure to be in the city on March 17 for an ‘enhanced’ edition of St Patrick’s Day shindigs.

📍 The best things to do in Belfast

6.  St Andrews

Forgive us for including two Scottish seaside towns in this list (see: number 14), but it’s a good excuse to plan a road trip, right? A coastal gem in the Kingdom of Fife, St Andrews is home to an ancient university, three stunning beaches, botanic gardens, multiple pubs, a famous golf course and not much else. But it’s also beautiful, extremely walkable and very peaceful, and if you’re after a bit more action, it’s also close enough to Dundee to plan a day trip to the renowned V&A museum . St Andrews has also been tipped to be a hit set-jetting destination for 2024 with the town featuring heavily in the final season of ‘ The Crown ’, thanks to it to being where Prince William met Kate Middleton while at university. Fans, come this way.

The perfect day Line your stomach with a delicious fry up from Northpoint (which claims, like many places in town, to be where ‘Will met Kate’). Then, you’ll probably want to go for a lofty beach walk on West Sands, where ‘Chariots of Fire’ was filmed, before returning to town for some fresh fish and chips from Cromar’s (if the weather allows, eat them on another nearby beach: Castle Sands). In the evening, catch a local show at The Byre Theatre  or sink some pints at one of the town’s many pubs: Aikman’s and Brew Co. are very good choices.

Plan your trip  V isit in July: most of the students will have left for the summer and you might actually get to enjoy the beach with some sun.

📍 The essential guide to Scotland

7.  Lewes

‘Like a box of toys under a great amphitheatre of chalk hills... on the whole it is set down better than any town I have seen in England’: so said William Morris about Lewes in the 1800s. The sloping Sussex town has been a favoured haunt of artsy progressives, not least Virginia Woolf, Vanessa Bell and the rest of the bohemian Bloomsbury set. In 2023, it gained a brand new cultural space in the form of Charleston in Lewes (head here in the new year to catch the ‘Bring No Clothes: Bloomsbury and Fashion’ exhibition, closing March 3). There’s more, too: as you wonder Lewes’ charming wonky streets you’ll stumble past the former home of Anne of Cleves, Lewes Castle , a hodgepodge of artisan stores and delicious foodie spots – as well as the most bonkers pub in the UK, the Lewes Arms.

The perfect day  Take the brand new Sussex Art Shuttle and travel a short distance outside of town to see Charleston Farmhouse , before heading back for a veggie burger at Bun and Bean and a pastry dessert from Flint Owl Bakery . Spend the afternoon learning about the history of the castle and Lewes Priory , then browse the independent shops in The Needlemakers . Finish with a meal and a movie at Depot .

Plan your trip  The stunning Glyndebourne Opera House is hosting a festival of world class opera from May 16 to August 25, while the incredible extravaganza that is Lewes Bonfire Night is taking place around November 5.

📍 The best things to do in Lewes

8.  Newcastle

There’s plenty to shout about in Newcastle (and not just the nightlife, though we love that too). The city’s food scene already had a pretty good reputation, but new openings in 2023 have really seen it thrive, like natural wine and pizza spot Bawn  and new brunch spot Cafeteria :  a sort of posh style greasy spoon, which seem to be all the range now. Pair this with a load of great galleries and pubs, the legendary Wylam Brewery and Tyneside Cinema and seriously reasonable prices and you’ve got a cracking weekend away. Or you might just want to pack up and move there. It happens. 

The perfect day  Grab a coffee (with a view) at La Verne Vintage , before walking waterside and over the Quayside bridge. Head to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art and wander through whatever exhibition is on, before heading to the very top floor for fantastic views over the city. Then head to Ouseburn, Newcastle’s coolest neighbourhood, and grab a pint and a banging vegan lunch at The Ship Inn . If you’ve got an itching for more art, check out the Biscuit Factory next door. After a few more pints, hit up World Headquarters for a night on the Toon. 

Plan your trip  The Newcastle Fringe 2024 will run from July 18 to  29. Catch shows at the very cool Northern Stage as well as a number of pubs. 

📍 The best things to do in Newcastle

9.  Falmouth

Falmouth has always been Cornwall’s cooler town. Home to Exeter and Falmouth university campuses, student life here has brought a bit of vibrancy and edge to the quiet cobbled streets – but there’s always been a glaring gap when it came to the question of nightlife. Recently, though – thanks to new music venue  The Cornish Bank  –  its late night credentials have shot up. From Klub Nos Lowen, a cult folk music night, to up and coming indie bands, this spot is the ideal place to absorb some of the county’s best culture.

The perfect day  Start with a paddle at Gyllyngvase Beach, then warm yourself up with a coffee at Gylly beach cafe . Then check out the independent boutiques and galleries on the high street. (Shout out to Mirri Damer jewellery and Wild Pony vintage.) After grabbing some grub from Harbour Lights fish and chips, head to Chain Locker for a harbourside pint before moseying on to a gig at The Cornish Bank. If you have time, pop in to Beerwolf too, a charming pub/bookshop.

Plan your visit  T he annual worm charming championship  (you read that right)  takes place in late May every year. The Sea Shanty Festival  takes place on June  14 to 16  2024, and Falmouth Week , an extravaganza of music, sailing and local culture, takes place on August  9 to 18 .

📍 The best things to do in Falmouth

10.  Manchester

Manchester never fails to serve up a cultural banquet. After a huge year that saw the launch of Factory International at Aviva Studios, the rescue of grassroots gig venue, The Snug , and the long-awaited reopening of Manchester Museum , 2024 is set to be another big one. The star of the show will be the huge, innovative Co-op Live  which is opening in April, backed by Bruce Springsteen and Harry Styles and already has the likes of Liam Gallagher and Oilvia Rodrigo lined up to perform. And in much-anticipated news for its food scene, L’Enclume chef Tom Barnes is opening his first solo restaurant, Skof , in the Noma district in spring.

The perfect day  Swing by Idle Hands to fuel up on carbs and caffeine before perusing around the Northern Quarter’s indie shops (don’t miss Queer Lit or the Craft and Design Centre). Pick from a huge range of edible options at Mackie Mayor for lunch (or head to the Michelin-starred Where The Light Gets In , for something special) then use the new Visit Manchester Pass to check out the National Football Museum and take a craft beer tour of the city. End with a tipple and live music at YES .

Plan your trip  Head up some time between October 23 and 27 to catch the Worldwide Music Expo , which is set to attract over 2,600 big guns from the global music industry.

📍 The best things to do in Manchester 🍴 The best  restaurants in Manchester

11.  Ramsgate

Last year it was all about Margate , but now, another neighbour has joined Kent’s roster of cosy, culture-filled seaside towns that everyone’s getting obsessed with. Enter: Ramsgate , a walkable gem with a hell of a lot of character. Check out one of its locally-run galleries and studios (including Level 11 , specialising in dog pics), and don’t miss filling up at one of its new food offerings: this year, bar/restaurant Seabird  arrived on the scene , as well as new monthly pop-up Catch at the Camden Arms , serving up a delightful seafood set menu. Oh, and the world’s biggest Wetherspoons is here. You heard us. 

The perfect day  Pull up at Ramsgate Station and stroll towards the seafront, stopping at The Modern Boulangerie on Harbour Street for brunch and a ridiculously good cinnamon roll. Take a coffee to go and spend time checking out Ramsgate’s indie shops, from the records at Vinyl Head to the pottery, books and glass at Island Vintage . Head to the harbour and head out on a seal-spotting boat trip , before grabbing a sunset pint at the Royal Harbour Brasserie . Finally, warm up with pub grub at The Bedford Inn  (top tip: you can rent a room at their brand-new hotel too). 

Plan your trip  Go when it’s sunny and try to catch the town’s  International Film Festival in June or the Festival of Sound in August. 

📍 The best things to do in Ramsgate

12.  Norwich

Hugged by the marshes and woodlands of Broads National Park, Norwich brings the ancient to the contemporary — from its cobbled alleyways and two dazzling cathedrals to the modern exhibitions at the Sainsbury Centre and its Michelin-star prowess. In summer 2024,  Norwich Castle (which was apparently one of Europe’s most important mediaeval fortresses) is set to reveal the results of a mighty £15m revamp, due to include redecorated rooms and the restoration of its 12th century Norman keep. As the self-proclaimed ‘City of Stories’ and England’s first UNESCO City of LIterature, you’ll be enchanted by Norwich’s tale.

The perfect day  Order your morning drink of choice at Strangers Coffee then stop by the city’s 900-year old market on Gentleman’s Walk to check out the organic produce and food stalls. Save room for dessert so that you can enjoy elevenses at Figbar then take in the magnificent architecture of Norwich Cathedral and check out the curiosities hiding within the antique shops on Elm Hill. Round it all off with dinner from Grosvenor Fish Bar .

Plan your trip A c elebration of queer art and ideas, Queerfest Norwich is happening February 8 to 24.

📍 The best things to do in Norwich

13.  Alnmouth

For a tranquil seaside break in 2024, the tiny fishing village of Alnmouth on the border between Scotland and England is a solid bet. Think: wild, windswept walks, pastel-coloured fisherman’s cottages, freshly-caught fish and blissful peace and quiet. Three surrounding beaches make up part of Northumberland’s 40-mile long coastal path — which happens to be a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, recently renamed ‘National Landscapes’ – and as such, there’s a delightful cluster of wildlife to look out for, including adorable puffins and grey seals.

The perfect day Sit down for an A.M. coffee and fresh kippers on toast at Bistro23 before checking out Almouth’s cluster of independent stores like Scots of Alnmouth and Jane and Harry’s. Then stop by the Ferry Hut , a bitesize museum dedicated to the ferrymen of yesteryear. Spend the afternoon adventuring along the coastal path before indulging in a well-earned dinner at The Whittling House .

Plan your trip Alnmouth Arts Festival  is happening on June 15 and 16, with more than 50 designers and craftspeople exhibiting their work in venues throughout the village.

14.  Ullapool

A tiny village and port around 45 miles from Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, Ullapool is well situated for walkers and cyclists to get their dose of the great outdoors: explore the nearby Corrieshalloch Falls, scramble up Stac Pollaidh mountain or to hop on a ferry to the Outer Hebrides. But there’s more to this place than just hiking boots and anoraks. Ullapool also going under something of a cultural renaissance, with Scotland’s most remote club night bringing of-the-moment electronic DJs to the area and The Seafood Shack and new 3AA Rosette restaurant  The Dipping Lugger  attracting foodies from far and near. The town was recently chosen as one of Time Out’s most underrated travel destinations in Europe, so get down soon.

The perfect day Wrap up warm and drive over to the foot of Stac Pollaidh mountain, with its spectacular peak of Torridonian sandstone. Reward yourself with a packed lunch on the top after a two-hour climb, before heading home and warming up in The Ferry Boat Inn  where you can enjoy a slap-up dinner with some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat.

Plan your trip The next Baile/Baile club nights take place on February 3 and March 2, showcasing some of Scotland’s most exciting DJ talent.

15.  Wrexham

Who’d have thought a small Welsh city would have been taken over by Hollywood celebs and become the subject of an extremely popular Disney+ documentary? Wrexham, home to the formerly flailing football club Wrexham AFC, became one of the UK’s hottest tourist destinations after A-listers Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought the club in 2020. The city is also home to St Giles’s, one of the most stunning churches in Wales. Then there’s the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – a huge 18-arched stone and cast iron structure carrying the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee – and two National Trust properties, Erddig Parkland and Chirk Castle . In 2024, the national Football Museum for Wales is also expected to open, with exhibitions on Welsh language communities, fan culture and LGBTQ+ experiences.

The perfect day Start the day at Aussi brunch spot Lot 11 . After fueling yourself, you’re obviously going to want to check out The Racecourse, the stadium that’s home to Wrexham AFC. Then you’ll need to grab a pint at The Turf , the football team’s pub of choice. For the afternoon, hop in the car for a 20 minute drive to check out the gorgeous views from the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and surrounding World Heritage Site.

Plan your trip Wrexham Feast , an annual food and drink festival, takes place in late September.

📍 The best things to do in Wrexham

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12 of the best UK beach holidays for summer

I n recent years British holidaymakers have found that their own nation has plenty to offer when it comes to staycations, from  city breaks  to coastal escapes.

Yes, it may not have the “guaranteed” sun of  European  hotspots such as  Greece ,  Portugal  and southern  Spain , but the  UK has a range of beaches to rival the sandy swathes of warmer destinations.

From quiet, undisturbed coastlines in Wales to the rugged, sandy beaches of Cornwall , there is something for everyone if you’re willing to swap soaring temperatures for a milder domestic stay.

We’ve picked out some of the best beach holidays in the UK for anyone wanting to get an injection of seaside fun without the need to pack a passport.

Read more on UK travel :

• The best wild swimming stays in the UK
• The UK’s best road trips
• The best UK holiday destinations for families

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales

While not everyone wants a small hike (half a mile from Stackpole) to reach their relaxation destination, you won’t be disappointed after making the effort to get to this idyllic stretch of Welsh coastline. Picnics are welcome here but there’s also a cafe and other amenities if you need them in between taking a dip and sunbathing.

Where to stay

The Stackpole Inn is a mere five-minute walk from the beach and offers a selection of homely rooms plus both lunch and dinner service.

Whitby Sands, North Yorkshire

Less than a mile from the centre of one of the UK’s most famous seaside towns, Whitby Sands offers everything you’d want from a stereotypical UK beach. White sand and blue sea mix with the backdrop of green hills, multicoloured beach huts and the requisite fish and chip and ice cream shops to provide a stellar Northern seaside getaway.

Set within a magnificent townhouse on Whitby’s West Cliff, several rooms at La Rosa offer dramatic views across Whitby Harbour. Different rooms have different themes, ranging from the interior of an old caravan to the view of Whitby Abbey that is said to have inspired Bram Stoker to write Dracula .

North Shore Beach, Llandudno, Wales

With a pier, long stretches of sand and a town and location that is more accessible than many of its Pembrokeshire rivals – due to a well-served train station and close proximity to cities such as Manchester and Liverpool – this northern Welsh beach provides everything for a family or friends’ getaway in the largest seaside resort in the country. While the weather can be unreliable, the beach, and indeed the town, are a sight to behold when the sun shines.

The Quay Hotel & Spa is a 10-minute drive or train ride from the North Shore and provides a comfortable escape from the town in nearby Deganwy. Situated right on the harbour and with sea views, the hotel underwent a sophisticated renovation in 2020.

Luskentyre Sands, Scotland

Luskentyre is another one of those beaches that looks like it belongs far from the shores of the UK, with emerald waters and white sands more reminiscent of the Caribbean or Spain’s Atlantic coast. It is one of the largest beaches on the Isle of Harris, with miles of empty sands and grassy dunes that provide serene swimming opportunities and the chance for long walks, hikes and bike rides.

Luskentyre Beach Holidays offers both bed and breakfast and five-star self-catered cottage accommodation right on the shores of Luskentyre. Enjoy a B&B in the owners’ own home, or rent the ‘Atlantic Cottage’, which can house four people, for some blissful isolation with a large garden and outdoor decking area. From £880 per week for the Atlantic Cottage.

Tankerton Beach, Kent

A similar close-to-town offering in England, Tankerton Beach sits just 20 minutes away from Whitstable and could be a good option for those living around the capital who fancy a day (or three) out on the coast. This long pebble beach is geologically different to many of the others on the list, but still a knock-out.

The Marine Hotel offers amazing sea (or town) views in classically decorated ‘English’ style rooms. The location right on Whitstable’s promenade offers an excellent base, whether for strolling the town or simply staring at the view from the hotel restaurant.

Porthmeor Beach, St. Ives, Cornwall

A major part of Porthmeor’s attraction is its proximity to St. Ives. The magnificent town has lost none of its charm despite increased tourism, while the beach itself offers excellent cafes and restaurants and activity hires – think surfing and paddle boarding. It’s also (probably) the only beach that you can step off and almost directly into a Tate gallery, if that’s your thing.

The St Ives Harbour Hotel is located around 15 minutes away and overlooks Porthminster beach, another of St Ives’ headliners. Stay at this dog-friendly hotel for the best of both beaches – via an excellent walk along the town’s sea front – as well as spacious rooms with an intelligent layout.

Brighton Beach, East Sussex

Perhaps the quintessential UK seaside resort, Brighton provides all the charm and activity of the towns on this list but in urban size. The beaches are a mix of sand and pebble and are found next to marinas, the historic buildings of Kemp Town or the famous Palace Pier, but the real attraction here is the city itself. Here, a day on the beach can just as easily be the precursor to dinner at one of the excellent restaurants or a blow-out night out, or to wind down after a day’s shopping in the Lanes.

Brighton has a range of hotel offerings befitting of any city, but the Hotel du Vin stands out for its proximity to the seafront and city centre as well as its stylish room and bistro. The front of the hotel may look Shakespearean but the interiors are modern with a maritime twist.

Portstewart Strand, Derry, Northern Ireland

The only beach on this list that still welcomes cars onto its sands, the two-mile stretch is characterised by its numerous dunes and picnicking families. More isolated than other entries, this is the perfect place for day-tripping families.

A relaxed B&B just a short drive from the beach, Strand House is especially popular with golfers, as it sits next to two coastal golf courses.

Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall

Despite being located in arguably the most blessed county in the UK – as far as beaches are concerned anyway – Porthcurno nevertheless manages to stand out from the competition. While the soft sand and clear water are akin to that of other local beaches, the combination of dramatic high cliffs (for wind protection) and a quiet, scenic location put this beach at the top of an enviable list.

Cornish Horizons  offers rental cottages across the county for up to 12 guests. While prices will be dictated by when you go (and how far you book in advance), a deal for four people for four nights over a June weekend costs from £500.

Loch Morlich Beach, Glenmore

The shores of Loch Morlich look like they’ve been plucked straight from the Yukon and placed in the Cairngorms. Situated on a lake rather than the coastline, this beach has the rugged surroundings of mountains, including Ben Macdui, as well as verdant pine forest. The lake setting means you can enjoy freshwater rather than the salt of the sea, and the beach is well-equipped for water sports, walking and even camping.

While camping is a viable option on these shores, opt for slightly more comfortable accommodation at the Pine Marten Bar Glenmore Pods. These glamping pods offer indoor comfort and warmth just 200 metres from the shores of Loch Morlich, with an on-site bar that serves food and drinks with an extensive breakfast, lunch and evening menu.

Woolacombe Beach, North Devon

Located between the towns of Croyde and Ilfracombe, this two-mile stretch of sand is popular for surfers, kite-surfers, kayakers and families alike. Woolacombe stands out among a plethora of excellent beaches in Devon due to large untouched areas and the variety of potential activities on offer.

With spectacular sea views, a steamy spa and its own cinema, the Woolacombe Bay Hotel has everything needed to enjoy a stay whatever the weather. Every room is styled differently, but the decor will likely be the last thing on your mind here. Doubles from £160.

Weymouth Beach, Dorset

While crowds usually flock to the nearby beaches of Bournemouth – another of the UK’s most popular seaside destinations – Weymouth has all the charm without the cramped beach towels. All the elements for the classic UK beach getaway are included: think beach huts, ice cream parlours and a constant fear of seagulls stealing the salty fish and chips you just bought.

Beach-front townhouse, No.98 is a small boutique hotel that overlooks Weymouth Bay. Just two minutes away from the train station, the hotel is a good base for anyone wishing to sample Weymouth’s golden swathes.

Read more on the best beaches in Pembrokeshire

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Beat the heat: The ‘cool’ European destinations to visit in summer 2024

Here are the temperate alternatives to european hotspots that keep it cool – even in peak season, article bookmarked.

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Shade seekers can rejoice, holiday travel trends are changing and tan-refreshing, sunbed-stewing summer getaways are on the decline.

In light of the ongoing climate crisis , Brits – habitually inclined to boil abroad – are redirecting their wanderlust to European shores where they won’t be a prisoner to a hotel room’s air-conditioning or sweat over the midday UV index.

The shift to more moderate climates comes as no surprise. A furnace of Mediterranean holiday heavyweights, from Rhodes to Gran Canaria , were ablaze with wildfires during peak travel season 2023, and temperatures are continuing to break record highs year on year.

Now’s the time to swap searing Andalusia in mainland Spain for the cooler Canaries , trade Portugal ’s Algarve for Poland ’s Baltic coast, and replace big-hitting Greek islands with German variations.

With chasing scorching sun on the backburner, here are the destinations bringing a breeze to summer holidays from wind-whipped islands to northern Europe’s fine coastline.

Read more on Europe travel :

• The Spanish islands with sun and volcanic peaks that you should make your next holiday destination
• Greece travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go
• The best things to do in Valencia, from beach hopping to exploring by bike

Ostend, Belgium

• Average high in August: 21C
• Average low in August: 15C

Though best known for its chocolate, beer and the hub of EU democracy that is Brussels , it would be foolish to turn your nose up at Belgium ’s beach resorts. Let Flanders’s largest, Ostend , sweep you away to its golden sands this summer for mornings spent kitesurfing and afternoons filled with fresh oysters on the Albert I Promenade – all without the need to retreat from the heat.

Oslo, Norway

• Average low in August: 13C

The Norwegian capital is a tangle of hip districts – specifically buzzy Grünerløkka – boutique stores and al fresco dining spots fringed with by thick Marka forest (where you can go for active pursuits, including zip lining and mountain biking). Slick museums on the Oslo Pass, such as the Munch Museum, meet the culture criteria for a city break while taking a dip in seawater pools and drying off in Nordic saunas nails the R&R element of a standard summer holiday.

La Gomera, Canary Islands

• Average high in August: 28C
• Average low in August: 21C

While mainland Spain sizzles, an Atlantic onshore breeze blows through the Canary Islands , blessing balmy year-round La Gomera with inviting 20C days for holidaymakers to indulge in hiking, black-sand bathing and foodie feasts of melon lobster and marmalade rabbit. The bearable heat doesn’t sacrifice sunshine, with around nine hours of vitamin D on offer in August.

Tartu, Estonia

• Average low in August: 11C

Inevitably laden with sweaty vista climbs, winding refreshment queues and daily step tallies in the thousands, comfort is key on a city break, and the 2024 Capital of Culture , Tartu has just the climate for exploring Estonia . There is an elegant Town Hall Square primed for mass kissing events (yes, really), the sleek Estonian National Museum, and timber barges on the Emajõgi River for a sailor’s view of the peaceful landscape.

Sopot, Poland

• Average high in August: 22C
• Average low in August: 12C

Seafront Sopot, in the Tricity region of the “Baltic Riviera”, is an affordable alternative to the beloved big names further south  and  at its warmest come August. A short train ride from all the history of Gdansk , 4km of tempting beaches, Europe ’s longest wooden pier and stylish health spas dot the fairy tale-esque facades and locals hail Sopot for its beachfront nightlife scene and, of course, decadent waffles.

Sylt, Germany

• Average high in August: 20C
• Average low in August: 16C

A magnet for the German elite, the North Frisian Islands’ mild microclimate, pinstriped strandkorbs (hooded wicker seats wide enough for two) and pristine pale sands understandably attract travellers to Sylt’s west coast. A Michelin-rosette gastronomy scene, thatched cottages and lighthouse-scattered peninsulas make this balmy under-the-radar beach break one to add to your list.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Slovenia ’s most famous attraction sparkles under the summer sun and Lake Bled’s inviting turquoise glacial waters will help you keep your cool on climbs up to the medieval Bled Castle and romantic rows around the fantasy island. Where the legendary lakes of Garda and Como sweat with crowds in Italy , Bled’s slice of the Julian Alps, though inevitably busy, offers forest trails suited for secluded alpine hikes.

Machico, Madeira

• Average high in August: 26C

Leave the scorching Algarve for a more temperate Atlantic alternative on Portugal ’s Madeira archipelago. Sandwiched between mountains, far east Machico has a wave-battered artificial beach with golden grains imported from Africa , well-groomed gardens and a vision of terracotta roofs dotting its landscape. 

Pori, Finland

On Finland ’s west coast, the city of Pori is a centre for jazz music, Finnish street eats (including  porilainen,  an elevated sausage sandwich), and, star of Scandinavia, Yyteri Beach: 6km of white sand geared for windsurfing, bird watching, beach volleyball and barbecues. With the Kokemäenjoki River and Bothnian Sea National Park, this diverse destination has mastered sub-30C summer culture.

Haarlem, Netherlands

• Average high in August: 19C

Head to Haarlem for tulips, vinyls, hidden  hofje  courtyards and a fair share of canals. Amsterdam ’s less-crowded neighbour serves a slice of Dutch cool without the sweaty shoulder brushes with strangers. It has a popular shopping scene as well as a brewing culture backdating to the 14th century, and active pursuits can be found in the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park. 

Skagen, Denmark

On Denmark ’s northeastern peninsula, the port town of Skagen has art museums and fine dining to rival the country’s effortlessly cool capital Copenhagen . Whisps of cloud paint the skies and wild nature patrols the pale grains of the Grenen sandbar that straddles the Baltic and North Sea. Better still, August’s T-shirt and light-layers weather is ideal for exploring this stretch of the Rabjerg Mile – a migrating coastal sand dune.

Hoping for a balmy UK summer? Here are the best secret UK beaches to visit for some peace and quiet

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2024 Summer Weekend in Maine’s Acadia Region | Travel Guide

Plan the perfect summer weekend in the Maine Acadia Region with our 2024 guide to the best places to eat, stay, and play.

By Hilary Nangle

Apr 30 2024

BEST VACATION COTTAGES: Salt Cottages, Bar Harbor

Acadia National Park is the draw here, but between driving the Park Loop Road, hiking, pedaling, and ogling the eye-candy scenery, you’ll want to take in more highlights of the Acadia region. First, you need a place to stay.

VACATION COTTAGES Salt Cottages, Bar Harbor

These adorable white clapboard cottages with red accents overlook Hull’s Cove, and they’re just a half mile from the park’s visitor center and the start of the Park Loop Road. Refresh with a dip in the ocean-view heated pool or a Ping-Pong match in the clubhouse, refuel with light fare from Picnic, and savor s’mores by the firepit. saltcottagesbarharbor.com

Plan Your Perfect Summer Adventure: Get The Free Ultimate New England Summer Guide!

OCEANFRONT INN Bar Harbor Inn, Bar Harbor

Keep an eye on the harbor action from this oasis of classic elegance and calm with a primo oceanfront location. Only the Shore Path separates it from the rippling waters of Frenchman Bay. Now add two excellent restaurants, a lounge with live entertainment, a spa, and an ocean-view pool with a bar, and you’re truly staying in style. barharborinn.com

Once you’re checked in, drive the Park Loop Road at an hour when most park visitors are calling it a day. After catching the sunset from Cadillac Mountain (you’ll need a reservation to drive to the summit), return to town for dinner and dessert.

FINE DINING Havana, Bar Harbor

This Latin-inspired restaurant has earned raves ever since opening 25-plus years ago. Even then, the menu featured organic and naturally raised meats, sustainably harvested native seafood, and local organic produce. Sit inside or on the covered patio, sip a mojito, and splurge on the lobster moqueca or paella. havanamaine.com

ICE CREAM Mount Desert Island Ice Cream, Bar Harbor

With both familiar flavors and innovative ones (cinnamon-cardamom, lemon poppy jam), it’s no wonder MDI Ice Cream always has a line out the door. Before calling it a night, indulge in this high-butterfat treat, scratch-made in five-gallon batches using fresh ingredients and with an emphasis on sustainability. fearlessflavor.com

After a restful sleep, explore downtown Bar Harbor’s shops and sights while the crowds head to the park. In the West Street Historic District, admire mansions that survived the Great Fire of 1947. The Bar Harbor Historical Society owns the grandest of these.

MUSEUM La Rochelle Mansion & History Museum, Bar Harbor

Experience the grandeur of the Gilded Age inside this 41-room Georgian Revival waterfront mansion dating from 1903. Fascinating exhibits focus on Bar Harbor’s cultural and economic history, the lives of year-round and summer residents, and key events such as the Great Fire. barharborhistorical.org

PICNIC LUNCH Downeast Deli & Boxed Lunch Co., Bar Harbor

When the weather’s fine, you won’t want to spend an hour inside at lunchtime. Solution: Picnic in the park or along Bar Harbor’s waterfront. Bypass the line by ordering in advance (you can call until 8 p.m. the day before). Your bagged or boxed lunch includes a hefty sandwich of your choice accompanied by chips, a cookie, and water. The chowder, lobster rolls, and blueberry pie are all top-notch. downeastdeli.com

Before heading out for the rest of the day, grab a fleece, a windbreaker, a flashlight, and a telescope or binoculars if you have either. You’ll be thankful later when the sun goes down.

PRESERVE Mount Desert Land & Garden Preserve, Northeast Harbor

Most island visitors know about Thuya, an English garden, and Asticou, a Japanese-influenced garden. But there’s more to discover on this 1,400-acre preserve salted with woodlands, streams, and a pond. Trails make it easy to cobble together hikes taking in a variety of wild and cultivated landscapes. You’ll need reservations to view the Beatrix Farrand–designed, Asian-themed Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden in Seal Harbor. gardenpreserve.org

After working up an appetite, wander around Somes Sound, a rare fjard, and over to MDI’s quiet side. Mosey through downtown Southwest Harbor, loop over to Bass Harbor Light, then continue around the base of Bass Harbor and out to Bernard, a traditional Maine fishing village.

LOBSTER SHACK Thurston’s Lobster Pound, Bernard

What makes Thurston’s superlative? Is it the dreamy harborside location? Watching lobstermen unload their catches? Knowing the lobster on your plate came from one of those boats? Maybe it’s breathing in the brine-scented air or catching a fiery sunset from the covered and screened dining decks. Perhaps it’s knowing that Thurston’s is under fifth-generation management. Or it just might be all of the above. thurstonforlobster.com

STARGAZING SPOT Acadia National Park Seawall Picnic Area, Southwest Harbor

Marvel at Acadia’s unobstructed dark skies from Seawall, a cobblestone beach offering exceptional views of planets, constellations, and the shimmering Milky Way. It’s nature’s sound and light show, with waves rolling ashore under star-spangled skies. If you’re lucky, perhaps you’ll see a shooting star or even the northern lights. nps.gov/thingstodo/stargazing-seawall.htm

To truly appreciate Maine’s Acadia Region, you must see it from the sea—and taking a morning cruise before you depart is a fine way to do so.

EXCURSION BOAT Dive-In Theater with Diver Ed, Bar Harbor Hop aboard the Starfish Enterprise for a two-hour cruise that’s equally fun and educational. Diver Ed explores the ocean floor with his undersea camera and Mini Ed (an action-figure toy) and communicates with those above watching the action on a big screen. After rounding up sea critters, he surfaces and shares his finds in touch tanks before returning them to the sea. diveintheater.com

Hilary Nangle

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Pop Culture Happy Hour

• Performing Arts

Pop Culture

You know it when you see it: here are some movies that got sex scenes right.

Linda Holmes

It is a happy coincidence that our "What makes a good sex scene?" episode came out in the same week as Challengers, a film about a romance triangle in the tennis world starring Josh O'Connor, Zendaya and (not pictured) Mike Faist. Niko Tavernise/Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures hide caption

It is a happy coincidence that our "What makes a good sex scene?" episode came out in the same week as Challengers, a film about a romance triangle in the tennis world starring Josh O'Connor, Zendaya and (not pictured) Mike Faist.

What makes a good sex scene? It can be easier spot bad sex, but Aisha Harris, Christina Tucker, Ronald Young, Jr. and I tried to focus on the good this week on Pop Culture Happy Hour. You can listen to our full conversation here. (We didn't originally plan for this episode to run the same week as our episode about Challengers , which is out in theaters now, but it's a happy coincidence, since that film has gotten a lot of attention — probably too much, relative to its other merits — for the sex scenes involving its three leads. It's really very good .)

Movie Reviews

Watch a tense romantic triangle play out on the tennis court in 'challengers'.

It's often very obvious when a sex scene is bad, just like when a sex scene in a book is bad. It can get so uncomfortable to watch that you have to leave the room (and not in a way that feels true to the story). One of my personal tells for a bad sex scene is when all I can think about is how hard the actors are trying to persuade me that the characters are having a good time. For example, there has been much good discussion in recent years about Showgirls being a more interesting and competent project than it originally got credit for, but in that one pool scene (if you know it, you know it), all I can see is the effort.

Lauren Bacall And The 'Sex? What Sex?' Kind Of Movie Sex

It's not always as clear which scenes are good . That's partly because they serve so many different functions, all of which look different, and all of which can be effective. Furthermore, you don't want to confuse whether a sex scene is used well in a film with whether it's hot to you personally, despite the fact that there is overlap between those considerations.

In the 'Last Dance,' Magic Mike leaves his thong-and-dance routine behind

Here's what I mean: When Aisha talks about the sequence near the beginning of Magic Mike's Last Dance , it's not irrelevant that the scene is, to her (and to me), hot. But it also makes sense in the context of the film and the franchise, partly because of the way it sets up the power dynamic between Mike (Channing Tatum) and Max (Salma Hayek Pinault). Mike is older now, he knows more, and the way he approaches a lap dance is actually different than in earlier movies.

And not all good sex scenes are hot in the same ways. The one I mentioned in the episode, from the romantic drama Love & Basketball , is sexy, yes. But it's also a scene between young adults (the talented basketball players Monica and Quincy, played by Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps), and as such, it incorporates a tentativeness that's not present in Magic Mike's Last Dance , to say the least. As Ronald pointed out during our discussion, that sex scene is quite different from one that takes place later in Monica and Quincy's relationship, when they're older and know each other better. That certainly feels true to real life, but it's not always reflected in Hollywood films, where I would tentatively estimate that 90% of on-screen sex is more idealized and thus less intimate than real-life sex, in part because it isn't allowed to change over the course of a relationship.

Movie Interviews

'like it or not, we live in oppenheimer's world,' says director christopher nolan.

Even further from the hotness of the lap dance scene is Ronald's pick: the imagination of Kitty Oppenheimer (Emily Blunt) running wild in Oppenheimer. While her husband (Cillian Murphy) is being interrogated, she pictures him having sex with his mistress, Jean Tatlock (Florence Pugh). It goes by quickly enough that it might seem like a Christopher Nolan flourish for flourish's sake, but it serves the purpose of letting you feel her pain over her husband's affair. Her relationship with Robert doesn't look especially romantic in the film, let alone sexually charged; she finds herself consumed by the idea that he was having hot sex with this other woman, and she locks eyes with her vision of a naked Tatlock and finds herself tormented. It's not really the intent of the scene to titillate the audience, just to give specificity to the shape of Kitty's preoccupation with the affair.

What makes a good sex scene?

Christina raised another really important point, which is that sex scenes also collide with viewers at very specific moments. Her example from Bound , and the scenes between Violet (Jennifer Tilly) and Corky (Gina Gershon), touches on (among other things) her own history. It's an underappreciated aspect of the sex-in-movies discourse: representation matters in these scenes as much as anywhere else. I always wish I saw more sex scenes in movies that featured a broader variety of body types; it's still really rare to see ones that feature anybody who is even average sized. This is one of the reasons I'm curious about the upcoming season of Bridgerton , which places its focus on the gorgeous and curvaceous Penelope (Nicola Coughlan).

Looking for 'nomance': Study finds teens want less sex in their TV and movies

Good sex scenes are like any other kind of good filmmaking, honestly: it comes down to execution with purpose and care, done relative to whatever the function of the scene might be.

Whether that's spiciness or conflict or relationship growth or (as in the case of Bound ) setting up a steamy neo-noir story that wouldn't be the same if it weren't hot as heck, form follows function, ideally.

This piece also appeared in NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour newsletter. Sign up for the newsletter so you don't miss the next one, plus get weekly recommendations about what's making us happy.

Listen to Pop Culture Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts and Spotify .