best cities to visit england

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Lady’s 25 Best Cities in England

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

Best Cities in England

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Cambridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Canterbury

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

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

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

8. Winchester

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Newcastle

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

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

11. Birmingham

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

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

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

12. Brighton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Norwich

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

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

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

16. Nottingham

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

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

17. Leicester

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

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

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

18. Liverpool

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

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

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

19. Manchester

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

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

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

20. Bristol

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23. St Albans

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

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

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

24. Lincoln

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

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

25. City of London

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

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

Cities in England

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

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6 Comments on Lady’s 25 Best Cities in England

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

You’re welcome!

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

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

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

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

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Edinburgh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

3. Cambridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Liverpool

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Tips for Traveling to Europe

10. Cardiff

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Nottingham

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Manchester

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Manchester

13. Norwich

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Bristol

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Brighton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More travel tips and inspiration for all over the UK:

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

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

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

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

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Thursday 21st of September 2023

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

Tuesday 1st of August 2023

Thank you for sharing useful information ...

Saturday 5th of August 2023

Glad to help. Have a great trip!

Saturday 11th of February 2023

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

Sunday 12th of February 2023

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

Jessica Fletcher

Sunday 22nd of January 2023

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

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

Friday 10th of February 2023

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

Monday 23rd of January 2023

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

Friday 13th of January 2023

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

Sunday 15th of January 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Brighton. Score 80.22

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

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

9. Dundee. Score 81.11

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

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

8. Belfast. Score 83.07

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

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

7. Glasgow. Score 83.27

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

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

6. Liverpool. Score 83.29

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

Where to stay:

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

5. Cambridge. Score 84.16

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

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

4. Manchester. Score 85.36

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

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

3. Edinburgh. Score 86.38

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

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

2. London. Score 86.44

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

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

1. Cardiff. Score 86.84

The playful Welsh capital takes the top spot for 2023 with its exciting independent restaurants, buzzy bars and up-and-coming neighbourhoods. Take a bite into the cool food scene and discover the unmissable places to visit with our guide to the best things to do in Cardiff .

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

12 Very Best Cities in England to visit

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 6, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities to visit in North West England

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

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

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

What to see and do in Liverpool

• Royal Albert Dock Liverpool

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

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

• Tate Liverpool

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

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

• Love the Beatles? 

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

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

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

Click to buy tickets for the Beatles story

• Another Place

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

Read more – Complete guide to visiting the city of Liverpool

How to travel to Liverpool from London by train

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

Where to stay in Liverpool

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

BEST – Hard Day’s Night Hotel

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

MID-RANGE – The Liner Hotel

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

BUDGET – The Z Hotel

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

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

⭐️ CLICK TO BUY

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

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

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

What to see and do in Manchester

• Northern Quarter

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

• Salford Quays 

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

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

How to get to Manchester from London by train

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

Where to stay in Manchester

These are my recommended accommodation options for Manchester.

BEST – The Edwardian Manchester

MID-RANGE – The Midland

BUDGET – Ibis Styles Manchester Portland Hotel

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

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

What to see and do in Chester

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

• Chester’s city walls

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

• Chester Cathedral in particular the Cathedral Choir

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

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

How to travel to Chester from London

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

Where to stay in Chester

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

BEST – The Chester Grosvenor

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

MID -RANGE – Mill Hotel and Spa

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

BUDGET – The Saddle Inn

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

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

Cities to visit in North East England

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

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

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

What to see and do in Newcastle

• Tyne Bridge

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

• The Angel of the North

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

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

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

• The Quayside

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

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

• Segedunum Roman Fort and Museum

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

How to get to Newcastle from London by train

Distance from London: 247 miles

Time taken by train: 3 hours 

Leave from: London Kings Cross to Newcastle Central Station

Where to stay in Newcastle

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

BEST – The Vermont Hotel

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

MID -RANGE – Cairn Hotel

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

BUDGET – Motel One Newcastle

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

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

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

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

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

What to see and do in Durham

• Durham Cathedral

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

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

• Durham Castle

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

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

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

• Beamish Museum

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

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

How to get to Durham from London by train

Distance from London:  234 miles

Time taken by train: 2 hours 50 mins

Leave from: London Kings Cross to Durham

Where to stay in Durham

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

BEST – The Kings Lodge Inn

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

MID -RANGE – Radisson Blu Hotel

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

BUDGET – Durham Castle

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

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

Cities to visit in Yorkshire

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

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

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

What to see and do in York

• York Minster

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

• National Railway Museum

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

• The Shambles

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

• Take afternoon tea at Bettys Tea Rooms! 

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

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

How to get to York from London by train

Distance from London: 174 miles

Leave from: London Kings Cross to York

Where to stay in York

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

BEST – Grays Court

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

MID -RANGE – Hotel Indigo York

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

BUDGET – The Bar Convent

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

Read more – What to do and see in Yorkshire

Cities to visit in the East of England

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

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

What to do and see in Cambridge

• Cambridge University

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

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

• The Fitzwilliam Museum

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

• Take a punt along the River Cam 

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

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

How to get to Cambridge from London

Distance from London: 55 miles

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

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

Where to stay in Cambridge

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

BEST – University Arms

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

MID -RANGE – Gonville Hotel

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

BUDGET – Leverton House

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

Cities to visit in South West England

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

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

What to see and do in Bath

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

• The Roman Baths

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

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

• Admire the Royal Crescent

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

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

• Pulteney Bridge

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

How to travel to Bath from London

Distance from London: 94 miles / 152 km

Time taken by train: 2 hours 28

Leave from:  London Paddington

Where to stay in Bath

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

BEST – The Gainsborough Bath Spa

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

MID -RANGE – The Bird

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

BUDGET – Z Hotel Bath

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

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

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

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

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

What to see and do in Bristol

• Clifton Suspension Bridge

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

• Bristol Shopping Quarter

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

• Discover Bristol’s street art

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

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

How to travel to Bristol from London

Distance from London: 104 miles / 167 km

Time taken by train: 1 h 49

Leave from: London Paddington

Where to stay in Bristol

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

BEST – Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel

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

MID -RANGE – Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City

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

BUDGET – Mercure Bristol Grand Hote l

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

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

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

What to see and do in Oxford

• Explore Oxford University

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

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

• The Covered Market 

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

• Blenheim Palace

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

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

How to travel to Oxford from London

Distance from London: 52 miles / 83 km

Time taken by train: 1 hour

Leave from: London Paddington/ London Marylebone

Where to stay in Oxford

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

BEST – Old Parsonage Hotel

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

MID -RANGE – Head of the River

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

BUDGET – Heather House Bed and Breakfast

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

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

Cities to visit in South East England

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

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

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

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

What to see and do in Brighton

• The Brighton Pavilion

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

• Brighton Palace Pier

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

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

How to travel to Brighton from London

Distance from London: 47 miles (75 km)

Time taken by train: 1 hour 22

Leave from: London Blackfriars/ London Victoria

Where to stay in Brighton

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

BEST – The Grand Brighton

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

MID -RANGE – The Charm Brighton Boutique Hotel and Spa

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

BUDGET – Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront

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

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

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

If London is your first UK destination, you may find that a few days may not be enough to see and do everything you want. I recommend prioritising your must-sees and building your itinerary from there. You will find lots of London itinerary suggestions on the London Travel Planning website .

What to see and do in London

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

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

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

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

Other cities to visit which made the shortlist include

• 15 best places to visit in England

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.

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

Edinburgh: scotland's capital, roman-era bath, ancient stonehenge and medieval salisbury, royal windsor, idyllic england: the cotswolds, the magical lake district, medieval york and its minster, the university towns of cambridge & oxford, england's pilgrimage city: canterbury, loch ness and inverness, northern ireland's giant's causeway, liverpool: home of the beatles, manchester: england's football mad city, cardiff: the capital of wales, the channel islands, glasgow & loch lomond, snowdonia: wales' biggest mountains.

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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17 Best Cities in the UK to Visit Right Now

Written By: The Planet D

United Kingdom

Updated On: June 11, 2024

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

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

Table of Contents

Top Cities in the UK

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

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

1. London (Largest City)

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

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

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

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

2. Manchester

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Edinburgh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Liverpool

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Newcastle upon Tyne

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

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

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

11. Birmingham (Second Largest City)

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

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

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

12. Brighton

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

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

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

13. Cardiff

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

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

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

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

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

14. Cambridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Inverness

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

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

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

Cities in the United Kingdom FAQ

When Is The Best Time To Visit The UK?

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

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

What are the Largest Cities in the UK by population?

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

What city in the UK should I visit first?

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

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

What is the most beautiful city in the UK?

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

What are the most popular cities in the UK?

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

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

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

Plan Your Next Trip to The UK With These Resources

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

Travel Planning Resources

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

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

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

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

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

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

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

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14 Best Cities to Visit in England

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on May 4, 2024

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

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

14. Cambridge

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

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

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

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

12. Brighton

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

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

11. Manchester

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

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

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

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

9. Liverpool

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

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

8. Nottingham

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

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

7. Newcastle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Map of cities in England

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28 Top Tourist Attractions in England

15 Most Charming Small Towns In England

25 Most Beautiful Castles in England

17 Best Places to Visit in England

12 Best Things to do in Bath, UK

12 Best Things to Do in Chester, England

15 Best Things to Do in Oxford, England

12 Best Things to Do in York, England

10 Best Places to Visit in Wales

10 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Reader interactions.

March 5, 2024 at 11:35 pm

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

December 18, 2020 at 10:44 am

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

April 7, 2020 at 6:43 pm

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

July 18, 2018 at 5:26 am

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

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28 places you should visit in England

Updated On 28th February, 2024

Planning a UK adventure and researching the best places to visit in England? Wondering where to find the most beautiful places in England?

If you’re planning on visiting England, but you aren’t sure where to go and what to add to your England bucket list, this post will take you through all the best and most beautiful places to visit in England. There are lots of  places to visit in the UK  in general, and many of these are in England.

Travellers tend to give England a hard time for its rainfall but where there’s rain, there are lush greens. The beautiful English countryside, such as that in  Yorkshire ,  the Lake District ,  Devon  and the  South Downs  will be, without a doubt, one of the highlights of your English adventure and trust me, you’ll be missing the cosy English pub scene within days of departure. The most beautiful places in England are going to blow your mind.

From the bustling cities such as  London  and  Leeds , beachside towns in  Cornwall  and  Dorset , to the many Areas of Outstanding Beauty and  national parks , England really holds its own when it comes to choosing a European holiday. England has something to offer everyone and in this post, I’m going to do my very best to tempt you into choosing it as your next destination.

Other posts you may be interested in…

• The best things to do in England
• 18 unique things to do in England

The best places to visit in Surrey, England

• The best things to do in Cornwall, England
• The best things to do in Bournemouth, England
• The 15 UK National Parks on a map: Which should you visit?

EXPLORE ENGLAND ON MY BLOG HERE

Here are the 28 best and most beautiful places to visit in England…

1. brighton.

Wander through the lanes, take a walk along the lively seafront, enjoy some fish and chips, and then play a few games on the pier. It makes a good day trip in England because it’s just over an hour away from London, but it’s well worth spending a weekend there.

The lanes are my personal favourite. An afternoon spent meandering through the gorgeous shops and cafes is definitely worthy of a place on the best and most beautiful places in England.

See my weekend guide to Brighton here.

2. The New Forest

The Hampshire forest became a national park in 2005. Among the nature, fields, hills and valleys you will see ponies, cattle and deer. It’s one of the most beautiful places in England, especially if you like hiking and walking!

3. Cambridge

This world-famous English city is beautiful! The dazzling architecture (and there’s more than the university!) and the beautiful river give you the perfect balance of city and greenery.

See my 16 hikes in the UK that you cannot miss  here.

Cambridge’s rival, but beautiful in its own right. The university and the architecture are also stunning here, and you can also punt on the river here. Visit both and decide which you prefer for yourself!

See the best walks and hikes to go on in England  here.

Dorset is a beautiful area on the south coast of England. It’s a beautiful area to walk around, looking at wonders such as  Corfe Castle, Durdle Door  and  Hengistbury Head.  You can also hike the whole of the  Jurassic Coast  and search for fossils!  Bournemouth  is a great city for a beachy day trip, and staying in the famous beach huts should be on everyone’s England bucket list!

For  12 cool things to do in Bournemouth, read this !

For  12 day trips in Dorset, check out this post.

One of England’s most creative cities, Bristol should definitely be on your England bucket list. The birthplace of Banksy and home to the  International Balloon Fiesta , Bristol is definitely one of the coolest places to visit in England.

Another area that I love in England is Norfolk. From the historical city of  Norwich  to the beauty of the  lavender fields  and the  Norfolk Coast, The Wash  and  The Broads , Norfolk is a beautiful place to visit in the UK if you’re looking to get back to nature.

Check out my guide to Norfolk here.

8. Somerset and Wiltshire

Somerset is another region in the south of England worth visiting. I’d love to bring my van here and explore  Cheddar Gorge ,  Stonehenge and Avebury , the  dark sky reserve in Exmoor National Park,  as well as spending some time exploring the city of  Bath. 

Somerset is also home to the UK’s most famous festival,  Glastonbury,  which I’d love to attend one day!

For the ultimate  bucket list of festivals to go to, check out this post. 

Not sure what to pack for a festival? Here’s my  festival packing list!

9. Manchester

Famous for it’s football team, Manchester is definitely one of the best places to visit in England. From its music scene and nightlife to its food scene and culture, you definitely don’t want to miss out.

10. Cornwall

I actually think Cornwall might be one of my favourite areas in the UK. Scrap that, it’s my favourite. It’s the most beautiful place in England for a holiday in my eyes.

The stretches of beautiful coastline make for an amazing road trip:  check mine out here.  Highlights to build into your Cornwall road trip include  Watergate Bay, St Michael’s Mount, St Ives, Tintagel Castle  and the  Isles of Scilly.

• 10 beautiful little villages you must visit in Cornwall
• The best and most beautiful beaches to visit in Cornwall

Cornwall Google Map Legend

Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all my pins are at the touch of your fingertips.

11. Canterbury

Canterbury is another stunning area of the UK, and it’s where I held the Global Travellers’ Christmas 2019 getaway!

With a beautiful city centre, featuring an amazing cathedral and other beautiful architecture, it’s a great place for a day trip. It’s also got a beautiful river, and is full of and surrounded by green spaces and nature, so it’s a great place to head for a weekend in England and really sock up that countryside air!

12. Winchester

Did you know that Winchester used to be the capital of England? Another city famous for its history, Winchester is perfect for a day trip. It’s really easy to see most of the city in a day, and it’s easily accessible from most main towns in the south of England.

Speaking of capitals, it would just be rude to leave London off this list of places to visit in England! There’s so much to do in London. There’s the hustle and bustle of the  markets ,  walks to go on , the fantastic  brunch culture , unique  afternoon tea experiences , amazing places to go for  cocktails in the evenings … and that barely scratches the surface! You could visit London again and again and still find new things to see and do; it really is the city that keeps on giving.

See  13 reasons why you’ll fall in love with London here.

EXPLORE LONDON ON MY BLOG HERE

14. Isle of Wight

Come rain or shine, this small island just off England’s south coast is well worth visiting. The views of The Needles and the jaw-dropping Bembridge and Culver Downs are incredible, and the sandy and shingle beaches are perfect for a little lie down after a day’s exploring!

15. The Lake District

The Lake District is a must-see in England, and for good reason. Words cannot describe how beautiful this area of England is! From the serenity of  Lake Windermere  to the challenge of climbing  Scafell Pike , I think the Lake District is perhaps the best place to visit in England, if not the UK.

UK National Parks Google Map Legend

Looking for more UK inspiration?  Here are my favourite places to visit in the UK!

EXPLORE THE UK ON MY BLOG HERE

16. Northumberland

The beautiful coastline in this county stretches from the Scottish border all the way down to  Whitley Bay , a beautiful beach.  Hadrian’s Wall  is also part of Northumberland, and you can walk the Hadrian’s Wall national path which stretches from east to west, coast to coast. Other areas I’d love to explore in Northumberland are  Alnwick Castle  and  Holy Island .

17. Suffolk

Full of quaint villages, medieval towns and buckets full of countryside, Suffolk is the perfect area for an England road trip!  Check out my  road trip to Suffolk here.

EXPLORE ROAD TRIPS ON MY BLOG HERE

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

Don’t forget anything:  here’s my UK road trip checklist.

18. The Cotswolds

If the picture-perfect villages aren’t reason enough to visit in themselves, what about the cheese, cider and delicious local food? Stretching over five counties, the Cotswolds is huge (the biggest AONB) and home to loads of adventure. It’s a great place to visit in England for everyone, whether you want to snuggle up in a cottage, try mountain biking, go cheese rolling, or enjoy a leisurely countryside hike.

Here’s my complete guide to planning a UK road trip!

19. South Downs

Rolling hills that go beyond the horizon, picking your own veg for dinner and hanging out with alpacas… why wouldn’t you want to visit the South Downs?!

Check out my trip to the South Downs here.

20. Liverpool

I haven’t been to Liverpool (yet), but I’ve heard it’s amazing. With some of the most friendly people in the UK and great nightlife, you’re guaranteed to have a lot of fun! Liverpool also has a great music and culture scene that is well worth diving into.

21. Birmingham

Another big city, but another great place to visit in England! With great food, music, and architecture, as well as friendly locals, you won’t run out of things to do in Birmingham. It’s also great for shopping, and the village of Bourneville (home to  Cadbury World !) isn’t too far out the city centre either.

Devon is a really popular place to visit in the UK, but it’s easy to see why. Beautiful beaches and charming villages, and wonderful countryside to walk through. Pure bliss.

Some of the most beautiful places in England are down in Devon, including Woolacombe, Croyde (make sure you surf there), Dartmoor National Park and Salcome.

• Check out my birthday weekend in Devon here.
• A guide to exploring Dartmoor National Park, Devon
• The best things to see and do in Devon, England

Devon Google Map Legend

Durham is one of the only cities in the UK with its own coastline. There’s also the beautiful River Wear running through the city, so perfect for anyone who enjoys being near the water. There are also countless beautiful buildings in Durham, as well as lots of independent shops, historical castles and the famous Beamish Museum.

Visiting the UK in the winter? Here are  12 tips for adding adventure into your UK winter trip.

25. Newcastle upon Tyne

Friendly locals, a bustling Quayside and fantastic history and culture are just a few of the things on offer in Newcastle. I’d love to go and see the puffins on the nearby Farne Islands!

26. The Peak District

The Peak District is in central England, not far from  Leeds , Liverpool or Nottingham. With beautiful hiking trails, quaint villages, stunning canals and rolling hills… the Peak District is yet another place to visit in England that really has it all! The highlight of my trip was rock climbing at Lawrence Field.

Check out my weekend in the Peak District here.

27. Yorkshire

Yorkshire is a great place to visit in England because of the sheer variety of things to do in the area! You could go on a night out in  Leeds  (check out  the best things to do in Leeds here ) , enjoy a Turkish bath in  Harrogate , watch a gig in  Sheffield , marvel at  York  cathedral, or even head to the  Yorkshire Dales  and take on the  Three Peaks challenge !

I’d also love to explore  Robin Hood’s Bay ,  Castle Howard  and  Whitby .

The Yorkshire Dales are just gorgeous. Up there at the top of the most beautiful places in England.

28. Warwick

This medieval town is famous for its castle, but when you visit, don’t forget to explore the markets, tea rooms and parks too! If you’re lucky, you might time your visit with one of the many local events that happen regularly in Warwick, such as the  Folk festival  or  Literary festival.

Join 7,000+ other like-minded Global Travellers in the Facebook family  here  today!

See my top tips for planning and researching your next adventure  here.

Where are your favourite places to visit in England?

In your opinion where are the most beautiful places in England? I’d love to know!

Love as always and happy adventuring,

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19 Best Cities in England: Beautiful Cities to Visit

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The best cities in England stretch far beyond London. England is home to several beautiful, historic cities as well as towns, villages, and stunning countryside.

Of course, everyone knows of the capital city London, but there are also university cities like Cambridge and Oxford, seaside cities like Brighton and Southampton, and historic cities like York and Bath – England has it all!

There’s a great collection of beautiful architecture and plenty of cultural experiences here. I love exploring England and I’m pretty sure there’s a city for every type of person here.

You could spend time sightseeing, or touring its pretty countryside and picturesque villages , and you’ll find yourself stumbling across an endless array of attractions.

To help you get the most out of your England travel itinerary, these are some of the most beautiful cities in England to visit.

My Top Travel resources for England

✅ My favourite cities in England are Cambridge , Bath , and York . ✅ Book cheap flights and accommodation with Booking.com ✅ Don’t forget your travel insurance ✅ To see the best of England, I recommend hiring a car .

Bath is one of the oldest cities in England, and it’s undeniably beautiful. It features stunning architecture and old-fashioned buildings from the Roman era. This includes the ancient Roman Baths that gave the city its name. 

Whilst these are a must-see while you’re in the city, there are plenty of interesting sites to explore while visiting Bath. Don’t miss Bath Abbey, The Royal Crescent, or the Jane Austen Center.

You can also enjoy some spas, and rooftop pools, or indulge in some delicious chocolate treats at Charlotte Brunswick Chocolates .

People love how lively it is here with live music and festivals happening all year round. They have an annual Christmas Market which could be fun if you’re visiting in the winter months. You’ll never forget your time exploring this English gem and it’s one of the most beautiful English cities.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Bath

Oxford is another one of the best cities in England, known for being home to some world-famous institutions and historic architecture. The city attracts visitors from all over who want to experience this stunning city’s rich history and culture.

You’ll find plenty of amazing museums here such as the Museum of Natural History, the Pitt Rivers Museum, or The Ashmolean which showcases ancient Greek pottery and artefacts from all over the world.

Oxford is also a great place for Harry Potter fans. It was used as a filming location for many movies. Be sure to visit Christ Church College, the Bodleian Library, and the Divinity School, which are both recognizable film sets.

Oxford is centrally located and easy to get to from London via train as well. It’ll take around one hour to get there, making it the perfect day trip from London .

✅ Find the best places to stay in Oxford

3. Cambridge

Cambridge is another great English city to visit, and one that’s perfect for a weekend away . While there are plenty of things to do here – from museums to outdoor attractions like punting on the River Cam – you’ll never be bored because the city of Cambridge has a lot going on year round!

For instance, December through February brings lots of festive events such as Christmas markets and winter light displays .

March sees the arts hit their stride in this gorgeous university town during the annual Festival of Ideas where they encourage the public to explore art and get creative.

May brings the infamous Cambridge Beer Festival on Jesus Green. In summer , enjoy live music at the Cambridge Music Festival which celebrates jazz, opera, classical music, and folk songs. Plus, Strawberries and Creem is incredibly popular and features a range of artists. 

But aside from festivals and funky events, Cambridge is a beautiful city with plenty of historical architecture for you to explore. This includes the famous King’s College Chapel which has stunning medieval paintings, Trinity College, St Johns College, and the curious Corpus Clock. 

It only takes about one hour by train from London. So, if you’re looking for an easy day trip or short break it might be a perfect choice.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Cambridge

You can’t make a list of the best cities in England to visit without mentioning London . It’s the capital city and the most popular tourist destination in the country!

London offers an eclectic mix of attractions as well as several museums, parks, and food markets . You can take a walk through Kensington Gardens or head up Primrose Hill for some stunning views.

If you’re looking for something more active then try your hand at climbing the O2, or kayaking on the Thames. Then, the National Gallery is also worth visiting if you want to explore art from around Europe. 

London will keep you busy with plenty of classic British sights. For example, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, or a double-decker bus tour through the city streets. But it’s not short of hidden gems either!

For children, there are lots of family-friendly activities available such as the London Dungeon and Madame Tussauds, where you can see some of your favourite celebrities up close.

You’ll also find hundreds of other attractions in London, and it’s easily one of the best English cities. It can be a tad expensive though. So these free things to do in London will help keep the costs down.

✅ Find the best places to stay in London

Located in the southwest of England, Bristol is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions to explore. Whether you want to take in the scenery from a boat ride or go shopping for souvenirs at Cabot Circus , there’s always something going on here.

Some other great things about this beautiful city are its culture and history. Check out The SS Great Britain, the famous ship and living museum. Plus, the AT-Bristol, the stunning St Mary Redcliffe Church, and Blaise Castle.

The best museums include the M Shed Museum where visitors can find more than 400 years’ worth of industrial heritage exhibits.

Arnolfini Gallery offers cutting-edge visual arts exhibitions alongside independent cinema screenings and lectures. And Bristol Museum and Art Gallery explore local and natural history.

Don’t forget to see the views from the magnificent Clifton Suspension Bridge, which spans a whopping 214m over the Avon Gorge. You can walk across the bridge for wonderful views of the gorge below. Or climb to the top of Observatory Hill for stunning views of the bridge itself.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Bristol

6. Southampton

If you love maritime history, fascinating Tudor house, and the ocean, you’ll absolutely love Southampton . This bustling port city on the south coast of England is steeped in history.

It’s the largest cruise port in the UK and you’ll find lots of cruise liners along its historic docks.

It’s also home to one of the most famous ships of all time – the Titanic – and you can learn a lot about her here, from her history to some behind-the-scenes information about her failed voyage.

The city also has a lot of great architecture, including medieval walls to striking modern structures like the iconic SeaCity Museum (this is where you can find out more about the Titanic).

✅ Find the best places to stay in Southampton

7. Plymouth

The largest city in the south of England, if you’re planning to venture south to places like Devon , or Cornwall , you might want to make a short stop here first. Ideal for a long weekend break, Plymouth is a gorgeous university city in the south.

As one of the country’s oldest seaports, Plymouth holds a significant place in British history. It is primarily known as the departure point for the Pilgrim Fathers’ voyage to the New World on the Mayflower in 1620.

The city’s waterfront is a focal point, bustling with activity, from the Royal William Yard’s trendy shops and restaurants to the Barbican’s quaint cobbled streets lined with historic buildings and charming pubs.

Plymouth also has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, art galleries, and theatres.

As well as this, its surrounding natural beauty, including the stunning landscapes of Dartmoor National Park and the picturesque Devon coastline, offers lots of opportunities to get outdoors.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Plymouth

8. Manchester

Manchester is known for its culture and sport with an incredible football stadium, beautiful art galleries, and a diverse range of restaurants. It’s the third most visited city in the UK after London and Edinburgh , and it’s not hard to see why! 

The Imperial War Museum, which is in a curious, contemporary building, the Manchester Art Gallery (which houses over 25,000 paintings), and the Museum Of Science And Industry where visitors can explore over 400 years’ worth of industrial heritage, are all worth a visit.

There are plenty more attractions too like Old Trafford Football Ground, the largest club stadium in the UK.

For architecture lovers, take a tour of Manchester Cathedral, and explore St. Mary’s Catholic Church. For some culture and delicious food, head to Chinatown.

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for family-friendly activities, exploring some UK history, or just want some retail therapy, Manchester is one of the best cities in England.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Manchester

I love the city of York and it’s definitely one of the most beautiful English cities. It’s a historic gem that’s best known for its medieval architecture and antiquity.

Some things to do here include the York City Walls, one of York’s free attractions which you can walk along. You can also take a boat cruise down the River Ouse where you’ll get an up-close view of Medieval houses, bridges, and churches!

There are also plenty more museums worth visiting. For instance, the Jorvik Viking Centre where visitors explore what life was like when Vikings invaded Britain around 800 AD.

Also, visit the York Castle Museum or the National Railway Museum which reveals five centuries’ worth of railway heritage. Plus, don’t forget the explore the Shambles, York’s famous street with leaning, medieval buildings.

There are plenty more attractions too like the York Minster, the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe, Clifford’s Tower which offers beautiful views over the moors and the city, and the crumbling ruins of St Mary’s Abbey.

It’s also a spectacular place to visit during Christmas as the centre comes alive with markets.

✅ Find the best places to stay in York

We stopped in Durham on our UK road trip on the way back from Edinburgh and I absolutely loved the history here. It surprised me how beautiful it was considering I didn’t know too much about it.

Our first stops were its magnificent cathedral and castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which dominate Durham’s skyline.

The cathedral, dating back to the 11th century, has some stunning architecture and medieval stained glass windows. The historic castle, while we weren’t able to go inside as it’s now part of Durham University, was still pretty impressive.

The winding cobbled streets of the historic city centre are lined with picturesque buildings, bustling markets, and quaint cafes, exuding an atmosphere of timeless elegance. This was a beautiful place to grab a coffee and a sandwich and simply to have a wander around.

Plus, the city’s surroundings are great. You’ll be within easy distance of the breathtaking landscapes of the River Wear and the nearby Durham Dales which offer endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and scenic walks .

✅ Find the best places to stay in Durham

Another of our UK road trip stops, we spent a long weekend in Leeds . Located in West Yorkshire, the city has a vibrant energy, a thriving cultural scene, and a diverse population.

In the bustling city centre, you’ll find Victorian-era architecture which blends seamlessly with modern skyscrapers, and an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Leeds is also home to many world-class museums, galleries, and theatres, including the renowned Leeds Art Gallery and the historic Leeds Grand Theatre. For those who like a night on the town, you’ll find lively bars, clubs, and a great music scene too.

Surrounded by picturesque countryside, including the Yorkshire Dales and other beautiful National Parks, Leeds offers a perfect balance of city life and natural beauty.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Leeds

12. Newcastle Upon Tyne

Yet another stop on our trip to Edinburgh , Newcastle was one of my favourites. The northern city has a great combination of history and culture.

Situated on the northern bank of the River Tyne, the cityscape is dominated by the iconic Tyne Bridge, which connects Newcastle with its neighbouring town, Gateshead.

You’ll find little historical sites dotted around the city. This includes Newcastle Castle and the elegant Grainger Town, lined with Georgian architecture.

Newcastle is also renowned for its thriving cultural scene, with world-class museums, galleries, and theatres, including the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and the Theatre Royal.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Newcastle upon Tyne

13. Brighton

Brighton is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway with beautiful beaches , shopping centres, and restaurants. It’s one of the best cities in England for those who want to combine a seaside escape with some classic English history.

It’s also home to one of England’s best-known landmarks – The Royal Pavilion – which was built in 1815. It’s an extravagant seaside retreat that features architectural styles from around the world.  

You can also explore famous attractions like Brighton Pier, explore museums such as Brighton Museum & Art Gallery which showcases over 100 years’ worth of art including pieces from some of the most famous artists in history, or Brighton Toy and Model Museum which is one of the oldest toy collections in England. 

The Brighton Sealife Centre is also worth a visit, and a great place to explore with kids. Don’t forget the British Airways tower for picture-perfect panoramas of the city.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Brighton

14. Birmingham

Birmingham is an excellent destination for anyone interested in history, culture, or shopping. There are plenty of museums to explore such as the National Motorcycle Museum and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. 

Kids will love the National Sea Life Centre. You’ll find over 70 different species from fish to sharks plus marine animals including otters, penguins, dolphins, etc.

You can also visit Cadbury World, which explores the history of chocolate and has interactive attractions, and chocolate tastings.

For those who love history, pay a visit to the Shakespeare Express. This classic steam engine is one of the most well-known functioning trains in England. Aston Hall and St Phillips Cathedral also shouldn’t be missed.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Birmingham

15. Canterbury

Canterbury is a charming city, home to Canterbury Cathedral. Built in the 11th century, this building is one of the most magnificent in the United Kingdom. It offers amazing views from the top. History buffs also shouldn’t miss St Augustine’s Abbey, the Westgate Towers, or St Martin’s Church.

There are plenty of museums too, including the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge where visitors can explore English legends, culture, and ancient artefacts from all over the world. 

There are plenty more attractions too like the Canterbury City Walls, the manicured Westgate Gardens, and the beautiful Christ Church Gate, which towers above Canterbury’s Buttermarket. 

Canterbury is a charming city with lots of history and religious attractions and one of the best cities in England to visit.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Canterbury

16. Salisbury

Salisbury is a gorgeous city in Somerset with the best examples of medieval architecture in England. It’s home to Salisbury Cathedral which was built in the 13th century and houses the Manga Carta.

Check out the Salisbury Museum, and National Trust’s Mompesson House, and tour Arundells. Nearby, you’ll also find Old Sarum, an ancient, Iron Age hill fort.

Salisbury is a gorgeous city with the best examples of medieval architecture in England. Don’t forget to simply explore the old city centre. Plus, if you have some extra time in the city, take a trip to the infamous Stonehenge.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Salisbury

17. Stratford-Upon-Avon

Stratford-Upon-Avon is one of the best cities in England thanks to its Shakespearean history.

It’s home to one of England’s best-known landmarks – The Royal Shakespeare Theatre – which first opened in 1932. The theatre can seat over 1000 people and is dedicated to the famous British playwright William Shakespeare.

There are other museums in Stratford too. For example, visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, explore Anne Hathaway’s cottage, and visit Hall’s Croft, home to Shakespeare’s daughter.

It’s also worth visiting the Holy Trinity Church, a medieval building constructed in 1210. Shakespeare was buried in this graveyard and you can also view his tomb.

For a less Shakearean attraction, pay a visit to the MAD (Mechanical Art and Design) Museum. This intriguing project showcases different uses of kinetic energy. There’s also the Stratford butterfly farm, or the Stratford Armories, which hold a large collection of historic coats of arms.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon

18. Liverpool

Liverpool is another of the best cities in England brimming with history and culture.

It’s also home to The Beatles Story where visitors can explore the band’s life story as well as take a guided tour featuring Penny Lane and The Cavern Club. Be sure to visit the Royal Albert Dock, the Tate Liverpool, and the Liverpool Cathedral.

Other museums include the Maritime Museum which explores Liverpool’s nautical explorations and the Museum of Liverpool which explores everything from geography to history.

You can also take an open-top bus tour around some of the city’s historic buildings. Make sure to see Albert Dock and the Catholic Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral.

For a peaceful end to the Liverpudlian trip, Birkenhead Park is a gorgeous green space located on the west side of Mersey. It was the first park funded by the public to open in Britain.

It opened in 1847 and, as well as plenty of flora and fauna, it features Gothic, Italianate, and Norman architecture. There are also two lakes and an ornate bridge. Perfect for a relaxing stroll to end your day.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Liverpool

19. Newport

Last but not least, this is one of the more unique cities in England to visit. I mean, you’ll have to get on a ferry to see it! But, I honestly believe it’s one of the best on this list.

Newport is the capital of the Isle of Wight , the largest island in the UK. Just a short ferry ride from Southampton or Portsmouth, this beautiful city is located at the heart of the island.

It’s a wonderful blend of old-world charm, with cobbled streets, historic buildings, and bustling markets. But you’ll also find modern shops, cafes, and wonderful seafood restaurants.

The town’s central location makes it a convenient base for exploring the island’s natural beauty, from its stunning coastline to its picturesque countryside.

✅ Find the best places to stay in Newport

Final Thoughts on the Best Cities in England to Visit

Overall, England is waaaay more than just London .

I say this all the time, but there’s so much to see here. It’s a stunning country and there are major cities up and down the country where you can see so much history, heritage, and, in some cases, natural beauty.

So, if you’re looking for a UK city break, I hope this article has given you plenty of inspiration outside of the British capital.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Some of the links above may be affiliate links that earn me a commission at no extra cost to you. If you purchase through my links – thank you so much! I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a travel blogger, content creator, and founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy, she embraced her passions and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

Based in the UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and going off-the-beaten-path, 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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Lonely Planet reveals the 10 best travel experiences in the UK

Jan 18, 2022 • 10 min read

Stonehenge is England's most iconic ancient site with an excellent visitor centre to learn more © William Toti / 500px

The United Kingdom may be relatively compact, but it has a wealth of travel experiences that you've probably dreamed of since childhood.

Buckingham Palace? Hadrian's Wall? Stonehenge? They're all here. Of course there are dozens of incredible places to visit across Great Britain, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands, but we give you the 10 best UK experiences to put on your itinerary, especially if it's your first time here.

1. Witness the mighty megaliths of Stonehenge

Mysterious and compelling, Stonehenge is England's most iconic ancient site. People have been drawn to this myth-laden ring of boulders for more than 5000 years, and we still don't know quite why it was built. Just what were ancient Britons playing at when they hauled these giant stones into place all those millennia ago? Stonehenge, on Salisbury Plain near Amesbury, is a monumental, undeniably mind-boggling achievement.

Built in stages between around 4500 BC and 1500 BC, Stonehenge’s massive stones (some weighing 25 tonnes) were probably erected using a system of sledges, rollers, pivots and pulleys; some were transported here from the Preseli Hills in Wales, 140 miles away. Standing in the shadow of the stones, feeling their power and presence, it’s impossible not to let your imagination run wild, wondering not only how, but why? 

If time allows continue on to nearby Avebury Stone Circle in Wiltshire, another truly impressive site but with a much smaller interpretative museum. And you can actually walk right up and touch the stones here.  

2. Escape to the Isle of Skye

In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes top prize. It's the largest of the Inner Hebrides islands at 50 miles long, and home to some of Scotland's most iconic landscapes. From the craggy peaks of the Cuillins and the bizarre pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing to the spectacular sea cliffs of Neist Point, there's a photo opportunity awaiting you at almost every turn.

Skye is one of Scotland’s most popular destinations along with Edinburgh and Loch Ness. Unfortunately prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, some part of Skye were experiencing the impact of overcrowding particularly social media fuelled hotspots such as the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Pools. Things have changed for the moment, so it’s a good time to be visiting.

Of course it is always possible to find peace and quiet on Skye in the island’s quieter corners such as Sleat, Elgol or Waternish, for example. Walking is a popular activity, so bring your hiking boots – but be prepared for changeable weather.

While the stunning scenery is the main attraction, when the mist closes in there are plenty of castles, crofting museums and cosy pubs and restaurants to snuggle in, plus art galleries and craft studios to explore.

3. Experience how the Romans bathed in Bath

And 2000 years ago, when Britain was under Roman rule,  a sumptuous bath complex was built at the site known as Aquae Sulis (present-day Bath ), taking advantage of the area’s geothermal hot springs, which warm the underground water to 46°C (115°F). Though now swallowed up by the Georgian city of Bath, this is one of the best-preserved Roman bathhouses in the world, and gives a fascinating glimpse into their everyday lives (and fastidious ablution habits).

Thanks to advances in technology, multimedia projections help bring the bustle of this ancient bath house to life today. The only disappointment when visiting this incredible site is that you're no longer permitted to take a dip. But you can get pretty close to a bona fide Roman bathing experience at the Thermae Bath Spa nearby, complete with its postcard-worthy panoramic rooftop pool.

Bath is also a must-visit for  television period drama lovers  and literature fans with a host of walking tours of perfect Regency avenues and views that summon yesteryear. 

4. Stride over hexagonal stones at the Giant’s Causeway

The descent down from the cliffs to the strange rocks of the Giant’s Causeway  in Northern Ireland feels at once timeless – the scene has remained the same for countless centuries – and yet the moody skies, the light and the temperament of the sea are constantly changing. Uneven stacks of hexagonal basalt columns stand in neat clusters along the water’s edge, emerging from the shore like tightly packed tower blocks in a city skyline.

Northern Ireland’s only Unesco World Heritage site is shrouded in a sense of magic, myth and natural wonder. Scientists put the formation of the rocks down to volcanic activity some 60 million years ago: as the lava flow cooled and hardened it contracted, creating a honeycomb pattern. 

You'll learn more about the geology and the mythology of this place at the excellent visitor centre beautifully designed into the landscape. Game of Thrones fans will also be pleased to see a map of filming sites in nearby locations. 

5. Be swept away by incredible theater shows

London is one of the best places in the world to catch a theater performance – so whatever your budget, make sure you get to a show. Restricted view or standing room only tickets can go for as little as £5 to £10.

The pandemic saw theaters close for well over a year in the UK, but now that they're back there is a palpable air of excitement and gratitude along with the glitz and stage lights. The joy among audiences and theater staff makes every night feel as special as opening night right now.

If you're keen to see famous names, you'll need to get organised and prebook your tickets before you arrive. Screen stars are often seen treading the boards at theaters from the prominent National Theatre  or  the Old Vic  to more experimental spaces like  Donmar Warehouse  and the Almeida .  The West End centres around Shaftesbury Ave, Charing Cross and Drury Lane and the surrounding area, with a total of 38 theathers from the Shaftesbury and the Theatre Royal to Noel Coward Theatre and the Garrick Theatre to name just a few. If it's new trailblazing works you're after, over more established shows, head further afield to the Bridge Theatre , the  Royal Court  or the Arcola . 

But of course the UK's outstanding theater is not just concentrated in London. If Shakespeare is more your thing, you will love an Elizabethan-style experience at  Shakespeare's Globe  in London, better yet you can see performances by the  Royal Shakespeare Company  in the bard's birthplace Stratford-upon-Avon itself. Other top theater companies are found in Bath , Sheffield , and Manchester . And have we mentioned Edinburgh yet? The city is soaked with opportunities to catch performances across its many festivals.

6. Tour the treasures in the British Museum

Some museums are travel destinations in themselves. The British Museum – the first-ever public national museum – is the envy of the world, with good reason in some cases, considering the many treasures obtained under questionable circumstances in colonial times.

This miraculous museum started life as a humble cabinet of curiosities, assembled by 18th-century physician and hot-chocolate inventor, Sir Hans Sloane. As a condition of bequeathing his treasures to the nation, he ordered that they be open for free to "all studious and curious persons", a tradition that persists to this day.

Visitors today are transported on a whirlwind world tour of human creativity. If human beings have made it, somewhere in the world, there’s a chance you’ll find an example among the display cases. There’s far too much to take in on one trip; if you only have a day, make a beeline for the Egyptian treasures, the Parthenon Marbles and quirky British antiquities such as the Sutton Hoo haul and the Lewis chessmen.

7. Retrace Roman footsteps along Hadrian’s Wall

Hot on the heels of Bath’s namesake thermal baths is another mighty Roman legacy – an enormous defensive wall stretching 73 miles across Britain. This phenomenal feat of engineering was built under Roman emperor Hadrian between AD 122 and 128 to keep out the Picts. Rising to a height of up to 15ft, with a width of almost 10ft, it took 15,000 men six years to construct it from local whinstone (dolerite). Only 10% survives today, but what does makes an unforgettable impression.

Along the wall were 80 mile-castle forts, with observation turrets between them. Larger forts were built in the south, with 16 more lying astride the wall, which you can visit today. Staggering remains that serve as reminders of the Romans’ advancements include the hospital at Housesteads Fort, ventilated granaries and barracks, as well as flushable communal latrines.

Exploring sections of the wall is easy thanks to good rail and road access (including buses), but if you’re up for an adventure, you can complete the national Hadrian’s Wall Path walking trail along its length in about a week.

8. Make a perfect weekend of it with a Sunday pub roast

Fewer and fewer people in Britain start Sunday with a trip to church, but the roast lunch is still a lock. For visitors, it’s a must-do experience. It doesn’t matter whether you’re in a centuries-old, windowless pub in London or at a large country inn with tables sprawling over a lawn, you’ll be among friends and families laughing, drinking beer and tucking into plates of hot sliced roast beef or pork, Yorkshire pudding, roasted potatoes and assorted veggies, all slathered in gravy.

Warming, filling and indulgent, this is comfort food par excellence. But more than that, it’s a reassuring experience, a weekly ritual where the nation forgets time, staves off the start of the working week and lives in the moment. So committed to pub life, the UK reopened pubs before schools during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Grab a plate, and partake in a tradition that everyone can agree on. 

9. Ramble the shores and mountains of the Lake District

Call it hiking or rambling – but most often simply walking – England is the perfect place to explore on two feet, thanks to its compact nature and protected network of "rights of way". You can stroll the narrow streets and hidden alleyways of the nation’s famous historic towns, then head for a patch of open countryside or one of England's network of national parks: the wild tors and heaths of Dartmoor make a fine introduction.

Windermere, England’s largest natural lake – 10.5 miles from Ambleside to Newby Bridge – is at the heart of the Lake District and its most popular destination . People come in search of the scenic splendour and bucolic experiences that inspired Wordsworth, Coleridge and the English Romantics.

Most activity is focused on the twin towns of Windermere (on a hill overlooking the lake) and busy Bowness-on-Windermere , which is home to the boat docks, a cluster of shops and the World of Beatrix Potter , which brings to life the most famous creations of the writer who dedicated her life to the preservation of the Lake District.

1o. Explore stunning Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

There’s more to Wales than sheep, drizzly valleys and place names that seem impossible to pronounce for outsiders. If you haven’t been to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in the country’s "wild west", you are missing a trick. This ravishing stretch of cliff-flanked coves, thrashing seas, wildflower-freckled moors and hedge-lined tracks leading to one-pub villages is a great escape. 

You’ve come for the beaches? Wise choice, you’re in for a treat. Tenby in the south offers a classic dose of ice-cream-licking, bucket-and-spade fun. But the further west you head, the wilder it gets, with the likes of crescent-shaped Barafundle Bay, reached on foot through the dunes, surf-hammered Freshwater, and tucked-away Marloes with its high sea cliffs, shipwreck and boats heading over to puffin island, Skomer .

A terrific base for beach-hopping and coastal-hiking is St Davids . Britain’s smallest city is charm personified, with a whopping medieval cathedral, lanes staggering down to the sea, and a couple of highly stylish, architect-designed hotels, including art-slung former windmill Twr Y Felin and one-time Victorian convent Penrhiw.

Break up drives by striking out on the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which dips and rises over kissing gates and windy clifftops to smuggler’s coves, wooded hollows where brooks burble, and Neolithic burial chambers. To up the adventure, go coasteering  or turn your focus inland to hike the Preseli Mountains , a windswept range of rocky outcrops, low-lying peaks capped with prehistoric standing stones, and moorland flecked with gorse and heather.

You might also like:  The 10 best wild swimming spots in the UK The United Kingdom's 10 best food experiences Do you need a visa to go to the United Kingdom?  

This article was first published Aug 13, 2019 and updated Jan 18, 2022.

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20 Prettiest And Best Places To Visit In England

You know, one of the things I love about England is the diversity that we have. From the little coves on the Dorset Coast , gorgeous little hamlets and enough history to throw a stick at. All across the country, it’s filled to the brim with some of the best places to visit in England.

Okay but let’s start with the glaringly obvious, I’m biased and pretty proud of the beauty of England. I really do think that England is totally unique and much more than just cities like London .

Yes, these are amazing (and I love London more than any other city in the world) but it’s just one small area of our amazing country and there really is so much to see.

Over the last few years, I’ve made it my priority to explore so much more of England and to see the places that are right on my doorstep (it’s something that I regretted for the longest time… thinking that I needed to leave the UK to feel like I’d travelled. How wrong I was.

Anyway, better late than never, right? Whatever the case, If it’s your first trip around England or you’ll a dab hand at exploring our gorgeous country, I know you’ll find some of the best places to visit in England that you’ll just love.

Take a look at some of the very best places to visit in England. You’re going to have an amazing trip.

1.) Lake District

The Lake District is the UK’s newest UNESCO-protected site; and rightly so, it’s beautiful.

As you can probably tell from the name, the Lake District is filled with tranquil lakes, beautiful mountain ranges and a whole heap of tiny villages to explore.

Best of all, each lake has a slightly different character that’s unique.

The most well-known is Windermere Lake, but if you want to avoid the crowds, pop over to Ullswater Lake and check into Another Place, The Lake (which is the sister hotel of the Watergate Bay I mention in Cornwall).

Whilst here, head out onto the Ullswater steamer, try your hand at paddleboarding and hike to the top of Harter Fell for some of the best views across the Lake District.

It really is one of the best places to visit in England, especially if you can fit in a tour that takes in ten of the lakes.

We loved this tour of the Lake District , especially as it’s a 1-day trip and perfect if you’re only staying for a long weekend.

Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District

2.) Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle is one of the oldest settlements I think I’ve visited in England… people have lived here for over 8,000 years.

It’s a total throwback and it’ll feel like you’ve stepped back 1,000 years to an Olde English world. It really does feel like that.

Once here, take a stroll through the castle of Corfe, wander all the little boutiques and grab a yummy Sunday roast at Mortons House Restaurant.

If trains are your thing, you can even take a historic train from Corfe Castle Station to Swanage.

Read more: Our visit to Corfe Castle

3.) The Cotswolds

Yeah, the Cotswolds are a recurring theme for me! About 2 hours or so from London, the Cotswolds is an area of outstanding natural beauty that you’ll love (and easily one of the best places to visit in England).

Once you’re there, make sure to visit Bibury to see the gorgeous Arlington Row , pop into the Upper and Lower Slaughters (they’re far less gruesome than they sound), and head over to other spots like the Chipping Steps in Tetbury and Bourton-on-the-Water , too.

To be honest, I always find it easiest to get around the Cotswolds by car (although some bus routes and trains do run) you’ll have much more freedom to explore the tiny hamlets, towns and rolling hills.

That being said, if you don’t drive, you can book an incredible Cotswolds tour . This is especially good if you don’t drive. Plus it takes all the stress out of planning your destinations in the Cotswolds and it’s all so easy.

For a great place to stay, head to The Royal Oak in Tetbury or the Wood Norton which are both so lovely and quaint.

Read more: Best things to do in the Cotswolds

4.) Cambridge

Okay, Cambridge always holds a soft spot with me. It’s a relatively small city that is perfect to explore over a few days.

Once here, make sure to head up to the Church of St Mary the Great where you can climb the tower and get some incredible vistas over the city (just watch out for the bells ringing, it makes the tower shake).

Also, don’t forget to pop inside Kings College and the incredible chapel that’s just so awe-inspiring to see. Inside the chapel, you can still faintly see the ‘graffiti’ from Oliver Cromwell’s army that still stands to this day.

Oh yeah, keep your eyes peeled for the huge wooden rood screen inside the chapel – it was gifted by Henry VIII (the one that had six wives) to Anne Boylen and is one of the most striking features in the centre of the chapel.

In fact, you can book your very own guided tour of Cambridge on a punt (on the river)! This is such a great way to explore the city and totally unique. You’ll love Cambridge.

Read more: Best things to do in Cambridge

There’s just something about Bath , and you’ll totally know what I mean once you arrive. This ancient Roman Spa settlement still has some of the incredible features from the Roman Times.

Make sure to pop into the Roman Baths themselves and learn more about the incredible history of this place. It really is one of the best places to visit in England.

For a tasty treat, take a stroll over to Sally Lunn’s; she is the most famous and one of the oldest bun makers in the city. They taste so good!

Also, if you want to make things easier to get around Bath, book this hop-on, hop-off bus ticket . This way, it takes all the stress out of trying to find all of Bath’s best spots.

Read more: Best things to do in Bath

6.) Bristol

So Bristol is one of those cities that totally surprised me. My first-ever visit to Bristol was a little disappointing (I have to be honest).

I just think I hadn’t really found my ‘tribe’ of things I’d like on my first visit… all my fault, of course!

Thankfully, I was determined to give Bristol another shot, armed with much more info on the kind of spots I’d love .

This just did it for me – I fell in love with the city straight away and it’s really up there with the best places to visit in England.

Once there, head on a trail to see some of Bristol’s most iconic contemporary artists, including Banksy.

There’s a whole heap across his home city. Afterwards, head over to Whapping Wharf and Spike Island to whisk away the afternoon on the seafront with all the art spaces, restaurants and boutique little shops or pop over to the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Read more: Best things to do in Bristol

There’s a lot of friendly rivalry between Oxford and Cambridge as places to visit (and study). Some say Cambridge is the best… others say it’s Oxford. I’m gonna leave the final decision to you.

Now, Oxford itself is easily one of the best places to visit in England, especially if you’re based in London or on a longer road trip.

Whilst here, make sure to visit Christ Church College , head onto the river punting and wet your whistler at the Thirsty Meeples – a really quirky board game cafe in the city.

Finally, book a tour, with an actual alumni guide to take you all around the best spots in Oxford. It’s a great way to explore the city and is so interesting.

Read more: Best things to do in Oxford

8.) Norwich

It took me far too long to make our first trip to Norwich (England’s first-ever medieval city) and I’m ashamed to say that my very first visit was this year. well, better late than never, eh?

Perched about 2 hours north of London by train, it’s one of the best places to visit in England and a spot that I know you’ll love.

Whilst you’re here, make sure to explore the incredible cathedral, see the historic cobbled streets and wander to the central market that’s been held permanently in the town for over 1,000 years (when it was a Saxon market).

For a tasty bite to eat, head outside Norwich to the Fur and Feathers who make one delicious feat from local ingredients.

Oh, and finish your day with the best chippy in all of England at the Grosvenor Fish Bar ; all served with lashings of vinegar, of course.

Read more: Best things to do in Norwich

9.) Stonehenge

Possibly one of the most famous ancient sites in England, Stonehenge is a spot you have to see. Perched west of London (about 80 minutes away by car), it really is one of the best places to visit in England – especially for us history buffs!

It’s been recorded that the stones of Stonehenge actually came from west Wales a huge distance from when it was built.

Still, to this day, there are no conclusive ideas of why this was built or what it represents but there are theories around a place of worship, thanks, ceremony and community.

Just be aware that Stonehenge is a really popular spot, so if you don’t like crowds it’s best to book your Stonehenge tickets for more ‘off-peak’ times.

Either visit first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon (just before closing), this way you’ll have missed the bus tours and will only have a few eager beavers with you who have the same idea.

Also, if you want to visit and you’re going to be based in London, book this amazing half-day Stonehenge tour that leaves from Central London for a day trip.

Read more: Our visit to Stonehenge

10.) Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast always sounds so mysterious and pre-historic to me. I mean, the clue is in the name really but it always intrigued me right up until I visited this year.

This intrigue quickly turned to excitement when I realised that you can actually go fossil hunting on the UNESCO-protected coastline .

The thing that makes this area so good for fossil hunting is that the eroding cliffs on this stretch of coast have actually been pushed way up out of the seabed to create a piece of land.

Nowadays, as the cliffs slowly erode, they scatter a whole range of fossils that are all along the beach for us all to find.

Keep your eyes peeled and be patient. On our last visit, Yaya and I collected about 10 different fossils! It’s just so crazy to think that you’re the first living being to lay eyes on these fossils for 92 million years.

Oh, also, I nearly forgot – don’t forget to pop across the Jurassic Coast to visit the famous Durdle Door , Old Harry Rock’s and grab a bite to eat (and/or stay) at the Pig on the Beach . It’s so gorgeous.

Read more: How to go fossil hunting in England

11.) Watergate Bay

Watergate Bay is one of those places where you arrive and almost instantly fall into that relaxing beach vibe that makes Cornwall so great.

Whilst here, make sure to hike across the gorgeous coast, pop over to nearby Newquay and stay at the idyllic Watergate Bay Hotel.

Best of all, in Cornwall, you can book a fun surfing lesson in one of the best regions in England to surf.

Oh yeah, and if surfing is your thing then I’m positive you’ll love this spot. It really is one of the best places to visit in England… especially for sea lovers.

Read more: Visiting the Watergate Bay

12.) St Michael’s Mount

St Michael’s (not to be confused with Mount Saint Michel in France ) is another of Cornwall’s gems that you should see. Perched on a tidal island, it’s possibly one of the prettiest and best places to visit in England.

Legend has it that a giant still inhabits the cave on the island. Folklore or not, it’s enough to put the heeby-jeebies in you when the sun begins to set.

Read more: Top spots to visit in Cornwall

13.) Robin Hood’s Bay

Perched just south of Whitby in Yorkshire, Robin Hood’s Bay is one stunning and totally historic seaside village you have to visit.

Once a key smugglers’ village to bring in contraband items like alcohol, Robin Hood’s Bay still has a network of smuggler tunnels underneath the town itself.

Now, you can’t go in them today but it’s an incredible spot to visit and to learn more about the history of this age-old fisherman town. It really is one of the best places to visit in England.

Whilst in the area, make sure to visit Tea, Toast & Post for some tasty grub (their lunches are so good). Plus, they brew some of the best tea on the Yorkshire coast.

Read our full post on visiting Robin Hood’s Bay

14.) Castle Howard

Just a little shy of York , Castle Howard is truly a stunning castle to explore. You’ll honestly be blown away by how beautiful this place is and really is one of the best places to visit in England.

Once inside, head to some of the incredible rooms and experience a little slice of this stunning home.

During certain times of the year, Castle Howard hosts afternoon teas that are properly tasty and a real treat. Served with some piping hot Yorkshire tea, sweet treats and sandwiches it’s a lovely experience.

Although you might not be able to stay in Castle Howard , you can check into the beautiful Judges Court (In York ) that’s about 12 miles away.

Read more: Visiting Castle Howard

15.) London

I couldn’t forget to shout out London as one of the best places to visit in England, could I? I mean, it’s one of my favourite cities in the world and there’s so much to do that you’ll love.

If it’s your first time in London, make sure to check out some of the amazing neighbourhoods of; Covent Garden , King’s Cross , Notting Hill , Camden Town , Shoreditch , Peckham and Whitechapel .

Each of these neighbourhoods is totally unique and a great way to see the diversity that is London.

If you’re looking for some unique places, make sure to see some of London’s secret spots , its incredible markets , best bars and restaurants with a view . You’ll gorge on everything in sight!

Also, you can book yourself this gorgeous London cruise for a trip up the Thames. It’s a great way to see the city, especially at sunset.

Read more: Best things to do in London

16.) Holy Island

This has to be one of my favourite castles (and islands) in all of England. Perched on Holy Island, Lindisfarne Castle is properly stunning to see in person.

There’s just something so magical about it (and yes, that’s really cheesy to say, but it does feel like that).

Once here, head for a hike across the incredible shoreline, pop over to Holy Island and explore the castle and finish your day off in Berwick Upon Tweed where you can grab a yummy bite at the Maltings Kitchen .

Read more: Best islands to explore in England

17.) Birmingham

Birmingham often gets missed by lots of people’s travel plans in favour of some of the other big-hitting spots like London (or Edinburgh , across the border in Scotland). With that being said, it’s only about 80 minutes from London by train and there are so many cool spots to see.

Whilst you’re there, make sure to explore the Coffin Works see Winterbourne House and Garden and gorge on all the food at Carters of Moseley – they make an epic Orkney scallops dish, the tastiest mousse pudding made out of Douglas Fir and some yummy cakes.

It really is a contender for the best places to visit in England.

Read more: Best things to do in Birmingham

18.) Cirencester

Cirencester is a historic market town that’s easily reached by car or by train from most places in England. It’s the kind of town you visit and somehow wonder have you’ve spent all day exploring. It’s one of my favourite market towns and possibly one of the best places to visit in England.

Once you’ve arrived, make sure to explore the Parish Church of St John Baptist, visit the Elemental Sculpture Park and pop into The Fleece for some of the tastiest grub.

For a beautiful place to rest your head, check into the historic Royal Oak which is in Tetbury (about 25 minutes away)

Read more: What to see in Cirencester

If you fancy a little galivant away from the hustle and bustle of London, rent a car or take the train to the gorgeous and totally historic town of Rye. In fact, even if you’re travelling around the south-east of England, I’d suggest a trip to Rye.

It’s one of the best places to visit in England if you love quaint towns and a history that dates back centuries. Just be sure to check out Mermaid Street with its gorgeous cobbled road, visit the antique shops all around the town and visit the Rye Castle Museum.

Afterwards, you can easily partner a trip to Rye with the likes of Camber Sands for a beach day; or even Bodian Castle for a little more history. Just be sure to plan your day well, it’ll be filled up in no time!

Read more: Best day trips from London

20.) Manchester

Manchester always feels like that cool cousin you see at family parties and always wanna hang around with. Always hip, trendy and totally cool.

The city has such a cool vibe and really is one of the best places to visit in England if you want to experience a vibrant city (outside of London, of course).

For a tasty bite to eat, pop into Umezushi which makes the best sushi in the north and gorge at Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill which really will give you a good taste of Mancunian life.

If it’s football you’re into, book an Old Trafford Stadium tour that’ll take you around one of the world’s most famous clubs.

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• Beautiful Places UK

The UK is a treasure trove of varied landscapes, rich history and captivating architecture. From World Heritage Sites to towering mountains and historic locations, there’s so many beautiful places to explore. Join us as we uncover some of the UK’s most scenic and unforgettable places.

1. Fairy Glen, Isle of Skye

The wonderful Isle of Skye has many beauty spots, but the Fairy Glen is simply magical. Near the village of Uig, the dramatic cliffs and rugged landscapes of Skye transform into soft rolling hills, stone circles, and a beautiful loch, which all add to the Fairy Glen’s enchanted atmosphere. Visit this beauty spot on the Trotternish Peninsula from our Skye Club Site  early in the morning to get it all to yourself.

2. Stonehenge, Wiltshire

The World Heritage Site of Stonehenge  is one of the most popular natural destinations in the world. The megalithic wonder is around a 20-minute drive from our Salisbury Club Site  which is well worth it for the atmosphere of the towering stones alone. Pack a picnic to enjoy a relaxing break with a beautiful view of Stonehenge.

3. Swallow Falls, Betws-y-Coed

Located near Betws-y-Coed in Conwy , the name of these beautiful falls in Welsh is Rhaeadr Ewynnol. The dramatic, cascading falls tumble over a series of rocks, giving them their multitiered appearance. Swallow Falls is popular with photographers so make sure you have your camera ready at each vantage point.  

4. Urquhart Castle, Scottish Highlands

The beautiful ruins of Urquhart Castle  perch on the shore of the mythical Loch Ness. Whether you visit to snap the perfect picture, grab a glimpse of the Loch Ness Monster, or simply sit back and enjoy the views, Urquhart Castle is a stunning location to visit.

5. Thors Cave, Peak District

The arched entrance of Thors Cave can be seen from the scenic Manifold Way, a beautiful footpath in Staffordshire . Be careful as you take the steep and sometimes slippery route up to the cave for impressive views over the valley below.

6. Giants Causeway, Northern Ireland

Giants Causeway is part of the only World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland . The spectacular landscape of jagged cliffs and interlocking basalt columns is like nothing you’ll have seen before. Volcanic eruptions over 60 million years are to thank for the unique stretch of coastline.

7. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is an area of beautiful countryside, villages, and market towns to explore. In 1966, they were designated a National Landscape (or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, as they were then named). Criss-crossing limestone walls, wonderful walking paths and varied wildlife and grasslands are just some of the Cotswolds’ attributes that make it a beautiful area to visit. View our Cotswold campsites  to find out more and book your break.

8. Mount Snowdon, Gwynedd

Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and England, offers unrivalled views over the Snowdonia National Park . If you’re not up for the 6-8 hour walk, the Snowdon Mountain Railway  can take you to the summit to take in those breathtaking views.

9. Lindisfarne, Northumberland

Just off the coast of Northumberland  is the tidal island of Lindisfarne, also known as the Holy Island. Lindisfarne was a place of pilgrimage and has so much treasured history to unearth. Visit Lindisfarne on a day trip from our Beadnell Bay Club Site  to see fascinating ruins, wildlife like you’ve never seen before and picture-perfect views across the island.

10. Durdle Door, Dorset

Durdle Door is on the pretty Jurassic Coast , a World Heritage Site spanning 95 miles of the coastline along southern England. Near our Moreton Club Site , the iconic arch of Durdle Door is one of the most photographed locations in Dorset. The area has plenty to explore, including the shingle beach, limestone caves and wonderful coastal walking paths.

11. Whitby Abbey Ruins, Yorkshire

Visit some of the most haunting abbey ruins in the UK, within easy reach of our Scarborough Club Site . Whitby Abbey sits overlooking the seaside town of the same name and offers a picture-perfect location to visit while exploring North Yorkshire.

12. Fingals Cave, Isle of Staffa

Fingals Cave, on the Isle of Staffa in the Inner Hebrides is one of Scotland’s  finest. The mouth of the cave is made of striking hexagonal basalt columns which were formed millions of years ago. Board a ferry to enjoy a trip to see the cave in the Staffa National Nature Reserve and enjoy panoramic views of the Hebridean islands.  

13. Stanley Ghyll Waterfall, Lake District

The Eskdale Valley is a beautiful part of the Lake District National Park . With awe-inspiring surroundings, Stanley Ghyll Waterfall is unsurprisingly one of the most popular landmarks in Cumbria. Enjoy a secluded woodland walk to the cascading 60ft waterfall from Dalegarth Train Station.

14. Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye

Another beauty spot on the Isle of Skye  is the Old Man of Storr. This rock formation on the Trotternish Ridge is spectacular. The rugged landscape is the result of an ancient landslide and makes the perfect landscape for hiking and photography.

15. Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

Head to the Mendip Hills near the village of Cheddar where you’ll find our Club Site  with the same name. There you’ll find the very pretty Cheddar Gorge, known for it’s dramatic limestone cliffs, rich history and it’s impressive cave system. As well picture-perfect scenery, it’s also the best place to buy Cheddar cheese!

16. Ingleton Waterfalls, North Yorkshire

The popular Ingleton Waterfalls Trail passes six beautiful falls. Walking boots are a must for those taking on the trail, with lots of steps and sometimes slick paths to navigate. The trail is open every day, and maps are available to help you navigate your way through the wooded gorge.

17. Scafell Pike, Cumbria

The UK has a brilliant selection of mountains to climb , Scafell Pike is the highest in England at 978m. Scafell Pike is one of the most challenging climbs in the UK but the views of the surrounding Lake District National Park  on the way up are astounding.

18. Grey Mare's Tail Nature Reserve, Moffat

This beautiful valley offers a variety of views, from the 60-meter waterfall plunge into the Moffat Water Valley to hiking up the steep slope to Loch Skeen. Our Moffat Club Site  is a 20-minute drive away, making it an ideal base for exploring the Scottish Lowlands.

19. Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland

The coastal fortress of Bamburgh Castle  is one of Northumberland’s most popular attractions, just outside the village of Bamburgh . The inhabited castle sits high on the coastline, with breathtaking views out to the Farne Islands. Book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

20. St Nectan’s Glen, Cornwall

This corner of Cornwall  is a beautiful area to explore; St Nectan’s Glen is within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (Cornwall National Landscape), and it’s not hard to see why! Walk through ancient woodland to reach St Nectan’s Kieve, a waterfall which tumbles from a giant hole in the rockface into the beautiful river below.

21. Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye

These crystal clear blue pools, fed by waterfalls all leading to the River Brittle, could easily be one of the most beautiful locations in the UK. The popular walk to the pools is relatively easy, and anyone brave enough to face the cold can even take a dip along the way.

22. Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands

No other body of water in the UK is surrounded by as much myth and magic as Loch Ness. From searching for Nessie to enjoying time on the water and walking the spectacular surroundings, this part of the Scottish Highlands should be on your bucket list. Camp on the south shores with direct water access on our Loch Ness Shores  Club Site.

23. Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex

From breathtaking views of chalk cliffs, brilliant birdwatching opportunities, walking and cycling, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in in this beautiful country park. You’ll find our Normans Bay Club Site  is less than a 30-minute drive away.

24. Hadrian’s Wall, Northern England

Hadrian’s Wall was 73 miles long and built from coast to coast for the Roman army. It is one of the UK’s World Heritage Sites , and it’s well worth visiting one of the locations along the wall, such as Chester’s Roman Fort or the famous Corbridge Hoard.  

25. Portmeirion, Gwynedd

This charming village was created by the Welsh architect Clough Williams-Ellis who dedicated 50 years of his life to his vision. Read our guide to Portmeirion  to discover everything you need to know about visiting the beautiful village.

26. Henrhyd Falls and Graig Llech Woods, Brecon Beacons

The entirety of the Brecon Beacons National Park  is a sight to behold. There are plenty of ways to explore, from climbing mountains and caving to enjoying a scenic ride on the Brecon Mountain Railway. Henrhyd Falls are one of the locations that will simply leave you in awe. The “Batman” waterfall (due to its appearance in The Dark Knight Rises) plunges into a beautiful, wooded gorge.

27. Isle of Portland, Dorset

Marking the southernmost point on the Jurassic Cost, the Isle of Portland offers some of the best views in Dorset . Don’t be fooled by the size of this small island; there’s plenty to do, including Portland Castle and Portland Bill Lighthouse.  

28. Tintagel Haven Beach, Cornwall

Also known as Merlin’s Cove, Tintagel Haven Beach is simply beautiful and makes for a brilliant day out while staying on our Bude Club Site . Explore the ruins of Tintagel Castle  at the top of the sea cliff, Merlin’s Cave, and the small beach at the bottom.  

29. Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfalls, Wales

Pistyll Rhaeadr is Britain’s tallest single-drop waterfall. There are varying walks to suit all visitors, and at the bottom of the falls is a tearoom with original 18th-century features, creating a cosy atmosphere to stop off at during your visit.

30. Derwentwater, Lake District

Accessible from our Keswick Club Site , Derwentwater is surrounded by fells so you’ll be treated to beautiful views all around. At 10-miles around you can walk the circular path looping you along the entire shoreline. If you’re looking for a more relaxing way to enjoy the views, hop on a boat tour.

20 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty to Visit

Find out more.

Best Nature Reserves to Visit in the UK

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50 Top UK Tourist Attractions

Best uk caves to visit, mountains worth climbing in the uk, uk hidden gems, 20 waterfalls to visit across the uk.

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9 Best Places to Retire on the East Coast

Retirees can choose from four seasons or year-round summer on the Atlantic Coast.

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The East Coast of the U.S. offers a range of places to retire, from the north for those who enjoy the changing seasons to the mid-coastal states for milder weather and then south to Florida where the temperatures are warm year-round.

While each state has its own set of attractions, living near the ocean is a major allure for most who want to spend their golden years on the East Coast. Many retirees also enjoy the history of the towns and cities, some dating to the 1600s.

The cost of living varies with differences in home prices, utilities, and property, sales, and income taxes. Each state designs its own tax structure, including levies on income and inheritance — an important consideration for many retirees. Availability of health care, senior living facilities, activities, entertainment, and transportation also figure into the selection of a retirement destination.

With input from local experts and personal experience, here's a list of the best places to retire on the East Coast.

Port St. Lucie, Florida

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“Port St. Lucie is proud to be the sixth-largest city in Florida, with nearly 250,000 residents calling our vibrant community home,” Port St. Lucie’s mayor, Shannon Martin, tells Travel + Leisure . “Nestled on the beautiful Treasure Coast, our city serves as the economic heartbeat of the region ... We're consistently ranked among the best places to live in the nation, celebrated for our ethnic diversity, high homeownership rates, and as a top retirement destination,” she adds, also touting the city's low crime rate. “For more than a decade, we’ve ranked as the safest large city in Florida and one of the safest in the nation.”

Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, about 110 miles north of Miami, Port St. Lucie is home to more than 20 miles of pristine beaches , most with free admission and parking plus convenient amenities. With a free nature and wildlife digital pass, wildlife spotting, hiking trails, and botanical gardens are accessible. Museums, art galleries, workshops, and performances are among the cultural opportunities in the area. A number of senior living developments are available, too, and the average home value, according to Zillow, is $401,544.

Florida has no state income tax , so pensions, IRA and 401(k) income, and Social Security are not taxed, an advantage over most other states. There’s no inheritance or estate tax, and both property and sales taxes are comparable to the national average.

St. Simons, Georgia

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The largest barrier island in Georgia’s Golden Isles , St. Simons is located on the coast, about 85 miles south of Savannah. “St. Simons Island is a wonderful place to raise a family and retire. We count ourselves blessed to live here,” says Jennifer Klonoski, community relations director at Magnolia Manor , a retirement community.

For Frances Woods, a retiree and Magnolia Manor resident, it's the “beautiful beaches, shops, activities, golf courses, wonderful restaurants, bike trails, great entertainment, and friendly people” that drew her to St. Simons Island. And according to Emilyn Clark, a seven-year Magnolia Manor resident, “Retirement on St. Simons Island is like living in a small neighborhood. All the residents are very friendly."

Niche ranks St. Simons as the second-best place to retire in Georgia. The retiree-friendly state does not tax Social Security. Other types of retirement income (interest, dividends, capital gains, royalties, pensions, and annuities) are taxable, but there’s a deduction of $65,000 per person for residents 65 and older (and a $35,000 per person deduction for those who are 62 to 64).

Georgia has no estate or inheritance taxes, and homeowners ages 62 and older may qualify for homestead exemptions on property taxes for their primary residence. Sales and property tax rates are considered moderate.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

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“ Myrtle Beach is more than just a vacation destination; it’s a vibrant place to live with 14 unique communities offering a quality of life that’s hard to beat. With 60 miles of beautiful coastline, a mild climate year-round, and a thriving local economy, it’s no wonder families choose to call Myrtle Beach home,” says Karen Riordan, Visit Myrtle Beach president and CEO.

Here, visitors and locals are treated to world-class golf, plenty of dining and entertainment options, and welcoming Southern hospitality. “Visitors are often so enchanted by Myrtle Beach’s charm that they decide to make this beautiful place their permanent residence,” Riordan adds.

Considered a retirement-friendly state , South Carolina does not tax Social Security . Other types of retirement income are taxable, with a $10,000 deduction, at a marginal state rate of three percent. Property taxes are some of the lowest in the country. South Carolina does not levy estate or inheritance taxes .

Niche notes a median home value of $287,900 in Myrtle Beach. From private homes to high-rise condos, the city offers a range of places to live at a variety of price points.

Carolina Beach, North Carolina

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“The charm of this coastal community is among the many reasons retirees choose to relocate to Carolina Beach,” says Carolyn Glaser of Intracoastal Realty, who also calls out the destination's near-perfect weather, beautiful beaches, quaint marinas, oceanfront seafood restaurants, and 11-acre freshwater Carolina Beach Lake, which is ideal for fishing. “A nature lover's paradise, Carolina Beach State Park hosts the county's highest elevation hiking trail, as well as a marina and campsites.  Hundreds of resident and migrating bird species make Carolina Beach's Fort Fisher State Recreation Area their home, as do loggerhead turtles that nest on the island annually.”

In other words, you won't have to leave the island to find activities that cater to all interests. Visitors, especially the grandchildren, will find plenty to do, from the Carolina Beach Pier to the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher to the world-famous Britt's Donuts Shop.

“Low property and sales taxes, as well as a growing but affordable housing market, make Carolina Beach a desirable and prudent destination for retirees,” Glaser says. A relatively tax-friendly state for retirees, North Carolina exempts Social Security retirement benefits from income taxes. Other forms of retirement income are taxed at the North Carolina flat rate of 4.75 percent, and the state’s property and sales taxes are both moderate.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

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"Virginia Beach offers retirees coastal tranquility and endless recreational options,” says Nancy Helman, director of Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau. "The destination’s beautiful beaches, state parks, and biking trails, coupled with its inclusive neighborhoods and thriving arts and culinary scene, set the stage for retirees to enjoy a truly fulfilling and enriching lifestyle."

Virginia Beach’s three-mile boardwalk features a separate bike path, restaurants, shops, and entertainment. There’s also the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts , a local theater, and art galleries.

While Social Security income is not taxed in Virginia, other types of retirement income, like pensions and IRA and 40l(k) withdrawals, are taxable with a deduction of $12,000 for seniors. Property and sales tax rates in Virginia are low, and most cities and towns offer property tax relief for retirees over the age of 65, with the amount based on income and property value.

According to BestPlaces , the cost of living in Virginia Beach is about five percent higher than the national average. As the site reads, “Homeowners can find various housing options, ranging from single-family homes to luxurious condominiums — while renters also have access to more attractive deals nowadays.”

Surf City, New Jersey

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Located on Long Beach Island, Surf City is a town with year-round and summer-only residents. Marcus Pinto , a full-time resident, realtor, and principal with Compass, commented on the area’s sense of community and thriving art, culture, and restaurant scenes: “Surf City is a super-walkable town. You’re one block from the beach and one block from the bay. With residents living here year-round, there are more places to dine, shop, and things to do.”

Pinto predicts Long Beach Island could be the next Blue Zone . “I play pickleball with residents well into their 80s — they're healthy, active, and keeping up with much younger players.” Pinto also points out the island is accessible, just one mile from the New Jersey mainland.

According to Niche , the median home value in Surf City is $884,000. Social Security in New Jersey is not taxed, and state income taxes are low for any retirees with income from retirement accounts and pensions below $75,000 for single filers or $100,000 for joint filers. However, property taxes in New Jersey are some of the highest in the country.

Lewes, Delaware

Located where the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean meet, Lewes is a scenic ferry ride from Cape May , the southernmost point of New Jersey. With a walkable downtown, a summer farmers market, restaurants, boutiques, and antique shops, Lewes is a welcoming community with a population just over 3,000 and a median home value of $676,000 according to HomeSnacks .

T+L spoke to Grace Hoinowski of home building company Schell Brothers , who mentioned Delaware’s tax advantages and overall low cost of living have been attracting new residents, including remote workers and retirees. “The area was once seasonal, but over the past 10 years, more visitors have become full-time residents. The growing neighborhoods mean more services, amenities, restaurants, medical specialists, and improved infrastructure,” Hoinowski notes. She also points out the area’s Native American history, walkable downtown, proximity to the beach, and vintage Victorian homes.

Delaware is a tax-friendly state for retirees. It's one of just four with no state or local sales tax, and it has some of the country’s lowest property tax rates. In addition, seniors over the age of 65 may qualify for some property tax relief, depending on their income and the value of their property. There’s no estate or inheritance tax, and Delaware does not tax Social Security benefits. Income from pensions, IRAs, and 401(k)s is partially taxed.

Stony Brook, New York

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Located on the north shore of Long Island, along the Long Island Sound, Stony Brook is an appealing town for retirees. In Stony Book’s Village Center, the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame celebrates Long Island’s music heritage, and the Stony Brook Grist Mill, dating to the 18th century, recognizes the area’s history. The Long Island Museum features art, history, and displays of early carriage transportation. Stony Brook University is part of the community, a benefit for retirees for health care and cultural opportunities.

Niche states the median home price in Stony Brook as $576,800. The Long Island Sound beaches are beautiful — and yes, stony rather than sandy. A two-hour ride on the Long Island Rail Road takes residents to Penn Station in Manhattan for the theater, restaurants, museums, and other entertainment. An hour’s drive east, the wineries of the North Fork welcome visitors for tastings, and farms provide fresh seasonal produce.

New York does not tax Social Security income , a plus for retirees in the otherwise high tax state. In addition, income from pensions and retirement, while taxable, is exempt for up to $20,000 a year. Property and sales taxes are high in New York, and the state levies a tax on estates.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Located on New Hampshire’s coast, Portsmouth offers a historic downtown, beaches, parks, museums, nightlife, and a scenic waterfront. The city, settled in the early 1600s, is listed as a “Distinctive Destination” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, notable for its “stimulating mix of historic buildings, sidewalk cafes, great restaurants, art galleries, jazz clubs, and distinctive artisans’ boutiques.”

Niche calls the city one of the best places to live in New Hampshire, with a median home value of $594,000.

Local realtor Barbara Dunnington tells T+L that Portsmouth is a lovely city, popular with retirees who enjoy summer concerts, the theater, restaurants, and exploring the area’s history at Strawbery Banke Museum, with guided tours of historic homes.

According to Dunnington, “Portsmouth is a great place to live, but property in the area is expensive, and rents are high.” For retirees who find Portsmouth affordable, the city offers a vibrant, walkable downtown, a lively waterfront, and a variety of cultural opportunities.

While there's no state tax on personal income from salaries, Social Security, pensions, or retirement accounts, New Hampshire does have some of the highest property taxes in the U.S., according to SmartAsset . There's a five percent tax on interest and dividends greater than $2,400 ($4,800 for joint filers), but this is being phased out by January 2027, with declining rates until then. New Hampshire also has no sales, estate, or inheritance taxes.

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13 spectacular eco-retreats around the world

These days, sustainability in hotels should come as standard – and encompass much more than simply banning plastic straws or recycling. The best, most eco-minded stays put conservation and community on a par, from building with eco materials to serving home- grown produce in the restaurant, employing locals to regenerating the land. Here are the retreats leading the way in nature-positive tourism.

Mashpi Lodge, Ecuador

It’s hard to imagine that such a place exists just 60 miles from Quito. The lodge, which sits on a private 2,500-acre reserve within the Chocó cloud forest, is a conservation success story. In 2001, former mayor of Quito Roque Sevilla bought a section of the forest to protect it from logging; over a decade later he opened this hotel on the site of the old sawmill (no trees were cut down during construction and the structure was designed around the topography before being pre-assembled off-site to minimise impact). Contemporary rooms with floor-to-ceiling glass windows are designed to make guests feel among nature. There’s a research station and the Life Centre, which has a Butterfly Farm and viewing platform to observe some of the 400 species of birds that inhabit the forest. Days can be spent on guided hikes to waterfalls, gliding through the tree canopy on the Dragonfly Gondola and visiting the hummingbird garden.

Doubles from $1,595 per night, including shared transfers from main hotels in Quito, meals, and guided activities, mashpilodge.com

São Lourenço do Barrocal, Portugal

Olive groves, a vineyard and a huge organic garden surround this historic farmstead which opened as a hotel eight years after being restored by the eighth-generation family owners. Once a small, self-sustaining farming village, the entire estate has been rejuvenated andnow produces olive oil and wine (guests can have tastings of both, as well as join in the harvest). Rooms are simply furnished, with old wooden shutters repurposed as coffee tables, ceramics made by local potters and custom quilts from the region’s long-established wool factory. There’s an outdoor pool, Susanne Kaufmann treatments in the spa and mountain bikes to borrow for exploring the grounds. Plus, educational activities to learn about everything from beekeeping and birding to the megalithic archaeological heritage of the land.

Doubles from €410, barrocal.pt

Singita Mara River Tented Camp, Tanzania

Set on a bend of the Mara River in the north of the Serengeti, this permanent tented camp operates entirely off-grid using a custom-designed solar system for power. The six tented suites and main guest area were revamped last year, with furniture, art and accessories inspired by the vivid colours and patterns of the Maasai Kura tribe (more indigenous trees have also been planted to negate the need for air conditioning). It’s brilliantly positioned for the wildebeest crossing during the Great Migration but the twice daily game drives are exceptional all year-round – whether spotting big cats in rocky outcrops or elephant and giraffe among the open grasslands. A sunrise hot air balloon ride over the plains is a truly special way to begin the day; during downtime, guests can practice yoga, take a dip in the pool, or simply relax on their private deck.

From £1,610 per adult per night, including all meals, beverages and safari activities;  singita.com

Forestis Dolomites, Italy

Embracing nature is at the heart of this hideaway on the slopes of the Plose massif in the South Tyrolean Alps – and not just in the form of health-boosting benefits such as fresh mountain air, a mild climate and pure spring water. The hotel itself is carbon neutral, built using natural, local materials such as Dolomite stone and wood, and runs on renewable energy. Executive Chef Roland Lamprecht combines foraged ingredients with those sourced from local farmers for his seven-course tasting menu at dinner. And treatments in the spa, like the healing wood massage where pressure is applied using sticks, and the tree circle ceremony, take their cues from the forest. Experiences range from boating on the stunning Pragser Wildsee lake to hiking through woodland and stargazing.

Doubles from 800 euros per night, including breakfast; forestis.it

Alladale Wilderness Reserve, Scotland

An hour’s drive north of Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, this 23,000-acre wilderness reserve is the result of two decades of careful land regeneration: over a million native trees have been planted, damaged peatlands restored, and the red squirrel reintroduced. At the centre of the estate, surrounded by glens, lochs and ancient pine trees, are three fully catered lodges for exclusive use (the smallest is Ghillie’s Rest, which sleeps two to four; the largest is Alladale Lodge, for up to 14). Borrow wellingtons or hiking shoes from the boot room and get out and explore – perhaps hiking up to Glun Liath ridge for a view of both the East and West coasts of Scotland, a guided brown trout fly-fishing session, wild swimming or a ranger-led 4x4 reserve tour learning about the reforestation that’s underway.

From £3,300 per week for Ghillie's Rest, based on two sharing, inclusive of meals and some activities; alladale.com

UXUA, Brazil

Co-founded by former creative director of Diesel, Wilbert Das, 15 years ago, UXUA is a collection of restored casas in the boho coastal town of Trancoso. The newest is Casa Azul, a century-old farmhouse originally in the neighbouring state of Monas Gerais, which was dismantled and reassembled (with added solar power) in the middle of UXUA Maré, a nature sanctuary on Itapororoca beach consisting of a mangrove, rainforest, salt marsh and reef. Guests can go foraging with medical director Dr. Jullian Hamamoto who collects ingredients from the sanctuary, onsite garden and 50-acre UXUA Roca Farm for the Vida Lab nutritional research laboratory which creates essential oils for the spa. A 10-minute stroll through the town’s historic quadrado, lined with colourful colonial houses turned bars and shops, is the hotel’s feet-in-the-sand restaurant, made from an old wooden boat, for Bahian dishes and sundowners.

Casas from around £550 per night; uxua.com

The Brando, French Polynesia

Marlon Brando might have been best known for his role in films such as The Godfather but he was also an activist with a dream to build a sustainable private island resort on Tetiaroa, a Polynesian atoll that he fell in love with while on a hike in the 1960s. Opened after his death, this is a decade-old pioneering resort with pro-planet measures ranging from innovative low-energy sea water air conditioning to an EcoStation for scientific research run by the non-profit Tetiaroa Society (guests can visit the latter as part of a green tour). Snorkelling, kayaking and learning about traditional Poynesian culture, such as the art of Pareu tie-dying, are all part of a stay. Food is a highlight: French chef Jean Imbert (of Plaza Athénée in Paris fame) reworked the menus last year, from fine-dining Les Mutinés to Bob’s Bar where South Pacific dishes are inspired by the late actor’s films.

From €4,500 per night for a one-bedroom villa, all inclusive; thebrando.com

Nay Palad, Philippines

On the not-so-secret surfer’s paradise hotspot of Siargao, this resort reopened last year (it was previously known as Dedon Island) with 10 palm-thatch villas built from natural materials dotted along the mangrove-backed, white sand shore. There’s no set menu: instead, the plot-to-plate concept is based on what vegetables and herbs are ready to pick at the organic farm each day and the fishermen’s catch, picked fresh from the boat (other eco-minded measures include energy and water conservation and protecting the lagoon from dynamite fishing). Watersports and island-hopping day trips are the are the big draw but there are plenty of other options too, including an Jeepney tour, cooking classes and padel. Plus, in the Hideaway Village, relaxation comes in the form of spa treatments, yoga and meditation sessions.

From $890 per person sharing a Garden View Villa, all inclusive; naypaladhideaway.com

Gangtey Lodge, Bhutan

Widely-known as the world’s happiest country, Bhutan is also the only nation to be carbon neutral. It follows then, that all its hotels are built with the same sustainable mindset. Perched above the Phobjikha Valley with views of the 17 th -century Gangtey Monastery and pine forest-carpeted mountains, this lodge’s farmhouse suites are designed in keeping with the vernacular architecture. The aim here is to share and preserve ancient traditions so experiences include everything from tree planting (every summer, to celebrate the coronation of His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan, the lodge aims to plant more than 100 trees) to spiritual cleansing with the monks at the Gangtey Shedra (Buddhist College) and butterlamp lighting ceremonies.

Doubles from $700 per night, full board; gangteylodge.com

Sussurro, Mozambique

A paean to African craftsmanship, this owner-run retreat on a secluded saltwater lagoon in southern Mozambique has six pared-back bungalows, each with wooden furniture carved onsite by artisans, woven mats, antiques sourced on the continent and makuti palm-leaf ceilings (the resort is also powered by renewable energy). There’s a yoga deck, lap pool and laid-back restaurant with an open kitchen where the plant-rich menu is informed by what’s grown in the organic garden and available at local markets. Go-slow activities centre around the tides, from SUP to dhow sailing trips exploring the mangrove forests and remote villages along the Govhuro river tributary, and picnics on neighbouring islands.

Bungalows from $895 per person per night, all inclusive; sussurro.co

Misool, Indonesia

The vision of diving enthusiast couple Marit and Andrew Miners who were on the remote island of Batbitim in Raja Ampat when they stumbled across an abandoned shark finning camp, today Misool is a dive resort and conservation centre within the Misool Marine Reserve – and the biodiversity of the reefs is thriving. Much of the action happens underwater but on land, the newest addition is The Hive, a hang-out spot for planning snorkelling adventures or a kayak tour, or simply soaking up the views of the Daram Islands while sipping a morning cappucino. Overwater cottages and beach villas are built from reclaimed wood and come with Balinese-style open-air bathrooms; there’s a secluded swimming hole and powder-white sand; and a shady restaurant under the coconut palms for mostly plant-based suppers (salads and herbs are grown in the organic hydroponic lab).

From $3,470 per person for seven nights; misool.info

Treehotel, Sweden

In one tree is a mirrored cube that reflects the canopy around it; in another, a gigantic bird’s nest with a cosy, wood-clad interior is reached by climbing a ladder. These are just two of the experimental architect-designed rooms at Treehotel in Harads, a village within the Norrland Forest. By its very nature, it left little environmental impact when it was constructed over a decade ago and it’s an approach which continues now: electricity is supplied by hydroelectric power, wastewater is collected and there are combustion toilets. More recently, in 2022, the Biosphere room was added. In response to research showing certain bird populations decreasing in numbers, the Bjarke Ingels Group (the eponymous founding Danish architect is known for his sustainably-led vision), in collaboration with Swedish ornithologist Ulf Öhman, created an oval exterior with 350 suspended wooden birdboxes. Inside, deliberately dark interiors encourage guests to look outwards while a roof terrace among the treetops lends to the feeling of being immersed in nature.

From 5500 SEK per night for Birds Nest; treehotel.se

Cascioni, Sardinia

On the north-eastern tip of Sardinia, in the region of Gallura, this vast estate consists of crops and countryside overlooking a protected lagoon that leads to the sea. Looking after the land is second nature for the owners, who have also planted 3,000 olive trees, an orchard, and an organic vegetable garden on an area of parkland (most of the ingredients served in the restaurant are grown onsite). There are beehives, butterflies flitting about and over 250 species of birds that nest here in winter. Among all the wildness are the rustic suites, each with terracotta tiled floors, linen sofas in the living area, wooden bedheads and outside, a private garden with a plunge pool. Activities here are low-fi: from cycling around the estate and kayaking on the lagoon to making jam, olive oil tasing and herb-scented treatments in the spa.

cascioni.com