nice places to visit 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Edinburgh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

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

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

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

Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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50 Of The Most Beautiful Places In The UK To Visit

Check out some of the most spectacular sites in the UK with our handy guide.

The UK is so full of beautiful and magical places that you’ll be spoilt for choice. From picture postcard scenery to stunning Italian architecture, from cozy villages to serene beaches, there are many beautiful places in the UK. One of the greatest pleasures of a UK vacation is that there is something for everyone here. There is much more beauty to behold in this diverse country, so here we are to help you find them. Make sure to head out of the cities and check out some of these incredible places during your visit.

Table of Contents

Here Are The Most Beautiful Places In The UK That Will Leave You Speechless

1. the dark hedges, northern ireland.

Bregagh Road in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is popularly known as the Dark Hedges thanks to its tunnel of beech trees. This passageway of beech trees looks quite spooky and dramatic, making it one of the most photographed scenic spots in the UK. Fans of HBO’s Game of Thrones may also recognize it as the show’s “Kings Road”.

2. Portmeirion, Wales

Modelled after an Italian setting, its naturally beautiful location is one of the most scenic places to visit in UK. This small yet vibrant Mediterranean-style village was built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975. It is Located near the River Dwyryd and has hotels, spa, restaurant, tea-room, beach, and numerous shops. Don’t miss out on this one as it is one of the most beautiful places in the UK to visit during spring or summertime.

3. Fingal’s Cave, Scotland

This cave is a sea cave on the island of Staffa which is full of unique angular basalt columns. They create an area with breathtaking natural acoustics, especially with the waves that crash inside. What makes this cave so special is its size and the fact that there is a natural walkway through which visitors can get right inside at low tide. It is similar to the nearby Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland.

4. The Old Man Of Storr, The Isle Of Skye

The dramatic and unusual rock towers that form the Old Man of Storr are located on the Trotternish Peninsula. It is also set atop an ancient landslide. The iconic and breath-taking 3.8km walk on the Isle of Skye will take you through some of the most beautiful places of UK.

5. Lake Windermere, Cumbria

Located in the idyllic Lake District National Park in northwest England, Lake Windermere is one of the most famous places of UK. It is surrounded by mountain peaks and villages, including Bowness-on-Windermere. It also holds the place for being the largest natural lake in England. Definitely a great place to explore with family and friends!

6. Stonehenge, Wiltshire

One of the most prehistoric structures in all of Europe, Stonehenge dates back to c. 3000 BC. The ring of stones has puzzled scientists and archaeologists, and no one still knows what it was used for. It is believed to have been erected as a place of worship, but today it is one of the best places in UK as it attracts a major chunk of tourists to this place. 

Also Read: History and Excitement in Wales

7. Durdle Door, Dorset

The Jurassic Coast near Lulworth in Dorset is home to the incredible Durdle Door. Its limestone arch is over 400 feet tall and is privately owned, though it’s still open to visitors. This natural wonder of the UK is breathtakingly beautiful, hence comes under the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Durdle Door, an iconic landmark of Dorset is one of the most photographed and top places to visit in UK.

8. Tresco Abbey Gardens, The Isle Of Scilly, Cornwall

The Isle of Scilly is located about 30 miles off the coast of Cornwall and has an almost tropical air. It is home to the privately owned Tresco Island and the Tresco Abbey Gardens, an oasis of palm trees and exotic plants. It has over 20,000 plants from 80 countries around the world.

9. Whiteless Pike, Lake District

The Lake District is a popular activity holiday destination, especially during the winter months, for skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities. Whiteless Pike is a hilly range (or fell) located in the Lake District. It sits over Lake Buttermere, and the small peaked summit also provides beautiful views of the lakes Crummock and Loweswater.

Also Read: Oldest Buildings On The Planet

10. The White Cliffs Of Dover

The iconic and striking white cliffs of Dover are located on the English coastline, facing the Strait of Dover and France. The chalky cliff face reaches heights of 350 feet. These beautiful places in the UK will leave you speechless.

11. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

On the north-eastern coast of Ireland are the massive hexagonal shaped black basalt columns known as the Giant’s Causeway. It was formed 50 to 60 million years ago by volcanic activity in the region. This stunningly beautiful natural feature is also listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

12. Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

Located near Bath and the village of Cheddar is the magnificent natural setting of Cheddar Gorge. These limestone cliffs were created by Ice Age melt waters, and are the perfect spot for a long walk. You can also explore its fascinating prehistoric findings from the Stone Age occupation.

Also Read: Unforgettable Experiences In Cornwall

13. Tintern Abbey, Monmouthshire, Wales

Though the roof has long disappeared from Tintern Abbey, this 12th-century church remains hauntingly beautiful. Located in the dramatic Wye Valleys, the Gothic ruins inspired the famous poem by William Wordsworth. Great poets and painters such as Wordsworth and Turner have visited this place two hundred years ago.

14. Micheldever Forest, Hampshire

From late April to early May, a multitude of dainty bluebells covers the floor of the Micheldever Forest in a “purple carpet.” It is just one of the numerous places across the country where these flowers bloom each spring. You can also find bluebells at the Blickling Estate in Norfolk, Buckland, Devon and Dunham Massey, Cheshire among other places.

Also Read: Places To See Flowers In Spring

15. Wistman’s Wood, Dartmoor

Said to be a legendary Druids’ grove, Wistman’s Wood is one of only three high-altitude oakwoods on Dartmoor in Devon. Its well-established ecosystem has oaks that are estimated to be around 200 to 400 years old. This unusual and atmospheric forest and the many boulders scattered around it are covered in moss, lichen and ferns. In Wistman’s Wood one can expect rapid weather changes, hence ensure that you have adequate footwear and clothing.

16. Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland

Located on the northeast coast of England, Bamburgh Castle was once a Celtic fort. Built around 430 AD, it was later destroyed by the Vikings and rebuilt by the Normans and restored during Victorian times. With such a rich history and breathtaking views of the sea, it is one of the best places in the UK to visit. It’s one of the largest inhabited castles in the country and has stood guard over Northumberland for more than 1,400 years.

17. Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands

One of the most well-known lochs (or lakes) of the Scottish Highlands is Loch Ness. Located near the town of Inverness, the deep, freshwater loch is most famous for the mythical (and fictional) Loch Ness Monster, or “Nessie,” who is said to live in it. You can also visit the remains of Urquhart Castle that lies on the shores. It is one of the best and most beautiful places in the UK to visit in December for the many activities that are provided like hiking, trekking and biking.

Also Read: Georgian Splendour At Bath

18. Gold Hill, Shaftesbury

Gold Hill is a steep cobbled street with picturesque houses in the town of Shaftesbury in Dorset. The view of down Gold Hill is said to be “one of the most romantic sights in the UK.” Gold Hill is also referred to as ‘Hovis Hill’ as it was the location for the Hovis TV advert which is the most iconic advert of all time in England.

19. The Needles, The Isle Of Wight

The spectacular Needles is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the UK. What was once a tall and thin rock cliff that gave the group its name, collapsed in the late 1700s. Now, the row of three distinctive stacks of chalk rises to a height of 30 meters from the sea off the western coast of the Isle of Wight.

20. Llanberis Pass, Snowdonia

This rugged slate strewn mountain pass runs over 8 kilometers from Llanberis to Pen-y-Pass. It’s fine mountain scenery is home to numerous walks, including ones that will take you to Snowdon and the picturesque towns of Betws-y-Coed.

21. Norfolk Lavender, Norfolk

The village of Heacham in Norfolk is home to some of England’s loveliest lavender fields. You can also find similarly stunning fields at the Cotswolds, Kent, York, Hertfordshire, and Somerset.

22. The Royal Pavillion, Brighton

The Royal Pavilion, also known as the Brighton Pavilion, is an exotic palace in the center of Brighton . It was built as a seaside pleasure palace for King George IV in 1811 when he was still Prince Regent. It is a unique mix of Regency grandeur with stylistic elements from India and China.

23. Glen Nevis, Scottish Highlands

Glen Nevis is one of the most picturesque glens (or valleys) in Scotland. It is located at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest (and one of the most popular) mountains in the UK. To the other end of the glen is the town of Fort William.

24. Rye, East Sussex

This town near the coast in East Sussex is known for its cobbled lanes that are lined with medieval , half-timbered houses. You can visit the 14th-century Ypres Tower (now the Rye Castle Museum) and the Norman St. Mary’s Church to get stunning views of the town.

25. Llanthony Priory, Monmouthshire, Wales

Situated in the picturesque Vale of Ewyas, near the Black Mountains, is this ruined former Augustinian Priory. The Llanthony Priory dates back to the 1100s and fell to ruin (like Tintern Abbey) after Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries .

26. Kynance Cove, Cornwall

The white sand and blue seas of Kynance Cove look like something in the Mediterranean. The stunning beach, with its secret caves and islands, is one of the most photographed and painted located in Cornwall. It was featured on BBC’s hit series Poldark.

Also Read: Cornish Food You Have To Try 

27. Lavender Fields, Banstead

Located just a few kilometers from central London, the lavender fields at Banstead cover over 25 acres. Located in Banstead, Surrey, the Mayfield Lavender Farm is the perfect picnic spot for a day out.

28. Pen-y-Fan, Brecon Beacons, Wales

Located in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Pen y Fan is the highest peak in South Wales. Located 886 meters above sea level, the impressive views from the peak and the neighboring Corn Du are truly magnificent.

Also Read: Delicious Welsh Food From Wales

29. Fairy Pools, The Isle of Skye

Situated in a hidden valley in the Isle of Skye is a series of crystal clear pools and waterfalls. They are surrounded by cone-shaped hills and bubbling streams. Located near Uig, they’re the perfect size for a quick (if freezing) dip.

30. Dunnottar Castle, Aberdeenshire, Scotland

The ruin of the 15th-century Dunnottar Castle is located atop a natural peninsula. The rocky outcrop of land juts into the North Sea just off the northeast coast of Scotland.

Also Read: Traditional Scottish Food You Must Eat

31. Minack Theatre, Cornwall

This clifftop amphitheater is carved into a rocky granite outcrop overlooking the town of Porthcurno and the bright blue Atlantic. Built into the 1930s by Rowena Cade, it is now a popular open-air performance space.

32. Chatsworth House, Derbyshire

The stately Chatsworth House in Derbyshire is one of the most stunning country houses in England. Situated on the east bank of the River Derwent, it is set amongst expansive woods and landscaped parkland. It is the home of the Dukes of Devonshire and has been passed down through 16 generations of the Cavendish family. Chatsworth House has also been featured in numerous films, most famously as Pemberley, Mr Darcy’s home in Pride and Prejudice.

Also Read: 6 London Palaces You Have To See

33. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales

Located near the village of Stackpole in Pembrokeshire, Barafundle Bay was once owned by the Cawdor family. Nestled between cliffs, and known for its sand dunes and pine trees, this scenic and secluded beach is said to be among the top beaches in the world.

34. Hadrian’s Wall, Cumbria

Also known as the Roman Wall, this defensive fortification was built by the Romans, beginning in 122 AD, in the reign of the emperor Hadrian. It was meant to separate the Roman province of Britannia from the lands of the northern Ancient Britons, including the Picts. However, it doesn’t mark the modern boundary between England and Scotland.

35. Buachaille Etive Mor, Scottish Highlands

Also known simply as “The Buachaille,” this is perhaps the most recognizable mountain in Scotland. It is located at the head of Glen Etive in the Highlands and is encircled by the River Etive. Some of the most stunning and iconic views of the mountain are from Glen Coe.

36. Llyn Dinas, Snowdonia, Wales

This lake near Gwynedd in north Wales lies in a valley north of Beddgelert. Though the lake itself is quite shallow (with a maximum depth of only 10 meters) it covers a massive area of over 60 acres. The mountain lake offers some excellent walks with panoramic views. These are some of the most beautiful places in the UK, you shouldn’t miss.

37. High Force, Durham

The fast-flowing waterfalls and lush forest of High Force in County Durham make it one of the most spectacular and beautiful places in the UK. With a drop of 21 meters, the twin falls are surrounded by a diverse range of flora and fauna.

38. Smoo Cave, Scottish Highlands

The large Smoo Cave is a combined sea cave and an inner freshwater cave located in Durness. This mystical cave is riddled with caves and tunnels. However, the most stunning sight is the waterfall where the Smoo burn drops over 24 meters into a cavern below. These beautiful places in the UK are truly worth a visit.

39. Langmull Beach, The Isle Of Mull

Often called one of the best-kept secrets on the Isle of Mull, Langamull Beach looks like something out of the Caribbean. Though it is located 3 kilometers away from the nearest roads, this secluded beach offers spectacular views over to the Small Isles and Skye.

40. Dun Briste, Downpatrick, Northern Ireland

Located near the town of Knockaun lies the colossal 50-meter-tall sea-stack called Dun Briste. Meaning “the Broken Fort,” the stack was separated by the mainland by corrosive waves in the late 1300s.

41. Sgwd Yr Eira, Brecon Beacons, Wales

Sgwd Yr Eira is one of several spectacular waterfalls found in Mellte Valley of the Brecon Beacons. Literally meaning “fall of snow,” you can still walk behind the falling sheet of water, on a pather carved by generations of sheep farmers. These beautiful places in the UK are so mesmerizing that you wouldn’t want to leave.

42. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scottish Highlands

This spectacular railway is perhaps the most instantly recognizable location in Scotland. Featured in four of the Harry Potter films on the journey the Hogwarts Express makes from King’s Cross Station to the school, it has become known as the Harry Potter Bridge.

43. Mealt Falls, The Isle Of Skye

Located near the magnificent Kilt Rock (which is said to look like a pleated kilt) is the stunning Mealt waterfall. Fed by the nearby Mealt Loch, this waterfall is so high that on windy days the water doesn’t even touch the ground.

44. St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall

St Michaels Mount, located to the east of Penzance in Cornwall is one of the most photographed locations in the UK. This abbey is located on a small tidal island and was built by Benedictine monks (the same religious order that also constructed a sister abbey at Mont St-Michel in France) during the 12th century.

45. Big Ben, Westminster Abbey

Big Ben, a tower clock designed by Augustus Pugin is one of the most significant places to visit in the UK. This is so popular that artists all over the world use Big Ben to represent the country. The name refers to the largest of the six bells (13-ton bell) in Westminster Palace. Big Ben is known for its accuracy and for the massive sound of the hour bell. This place is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

46. London Eye, Lambeth

Located on the river Thames, London’s number one attraction is a giant wheel that stands at almost 140 meters tall. There are 32 capsules that will take you to the top to experience 360-degree views of the capital. The ride is quite exhilarating when you come face to face with the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you rise up. A trip to London is incomplete without a visit to Europe’s tallest observation wheel.

47. Tower Bridge, River Thames

Another iconic landmark of London is the Tower Bridge which is a suspension bridge. It was built somewhere between 1886 and 1894 by Horace Jones and engineered by John Wolfe Barry. It has two towers, in Victorian Gothic style, which hold machines that lift the bridge to allow passing of river traffic beneath it. One can get incredible views of London from the two high-level walkways which are 42 meters above the River Thames. This bridge is open to the general public 363 days a year.

48. Hyde Park, London

Hyde is the largest of the four Royal Parks in Westminster. In 1600’s it used to be a hunting ground but today it plays a significant role in the cultural scene of the city. Free speech, demonstrations and music concerts are held here. Hyde Park’s 350 acres of lush green English foliage is also home to some of London’s most important landmarks. It’s the best place to take a break from the hectic cityscape and enjoy the serene surroundings of Hyde Park. 

49. Windsor Castle, Berkshire

This 11th century castle built in the Gothic style is the place where the British royal family resides. Except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Windsor Castle is open to the public on all other days. As Windsor Castle is a working palace, opening arrangements may change at very short notice. Hence it’s advisable to check before planning a visit to avoid disappointments.

50. Old Town, Edinburgh

Old Town is so full of history and culture which will make you feel that you have stepped back in time. This place is dotted with buildings, forts, cathedrals and alleyways which dates back to hundreds of years. Apart from this various visitor attractions, walking tours, shops, galleries, cafes and pubs will keep you busy throughout the day. Old Town in Edinburgh is spellbindingly beautiful and one of the most perfect places to visit in UK.

Also Read: These 20 Destinations Are Straight Out Of A Fairytale

10 Handy Tips For A Stress Free Travel To The United Kingdom

The UK being one of the world’s biggest tourist destinations, it’s always important to plan ahead when visiting this wonderful country. With so many amazing places in the UK lined up for you, this checklist is sure to help you on your way.

1. Check for peak months and avoid travelling during these months to have the best experience at the UK beautiful places.

2. All four seasons can hit in one day, hence be prepared for all weather conditions.

3. Depending on your country of residence, do check all passport and visa requirements for hassle free travel.

4. Put together your travel itinerary well in advance and based on this prepare your packing checklist.

5. Book tickets in advance, not just the flight tickets but also your admission tickets to all of the UK’s top attractions. You will save a lot of time!

6. Public transports are easy and the best way to get around, hence make sure you have complete knowledge about it, so that you’re all sorted for your trip.

7. There are many attractions that one can see for free like, changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and the many museums and parks. 

8. If you are doing the trip on your own, it’s highly recommended that you get an Oyster card for the Tube and the double-decker bus ticket which are much cheaper than the single-ride tickets.

9. The electrical sockets in the UK are different, so pack a universal travel adaptor to charge all your electronic gadgets. 

10. The UK has a diverse range of accents, hence it’s always good to know the different accents. If not all, at least a few of them will help understanding things a little easier.

These beautiful places in the UK are sure to leave an indelible mark on you. Finding the holiday rentals for your holiday in the UK is also not tough because of Cozycozy now. Click to know more. The beauty of the landscape is something everyone must experience at least once in their lives! If we have missed out your favorite, please comment below. 

Eight new places that were awarded city status in May 2022 by the Cabinet Office are, Bangor (Northern Ireland), Wrexham (Wales), Colchester, Doncaster, Douglas (Isle of Man) and Dunfermline, Milton Keynes, Stanley (Falkland Islands).

The largest Indian community in the UK lives within the Ealing Southall constituency in western London. With all the major facilities, great neighborhood, safety and cooperation from the police, London is truly a blessing to live in.

London, Newcastle, Liverpool, Birmingham, Glasgow, Liverpool, Bristol, Manchester, Sheffield and Leeds are some of the main cities in the UK.

The UK has something to offer to every kind of traveler. Some of the most beautiful parts include The Old Man of Storr, the Isle of Skye, Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland and Tintern Abbey, Monmouthshire, Wales.

Some of the prettiest places in the UK include Portmeirion, Wales, Stonehenge, Wiltshire, Durdle Door, Dorset and Lake Windermere, Cumbria.

Cornwall, Yorkshire and Cumbria are some of the most breathtakingly beautiful counties in England that are sure to leave you spellbound.

The Tower Of London is the most visited place in the UK. It is a historic castle that stands on the north bank of the River Thames. This rare surviving royal building from the 11th to 16th century is also a symbol of royalty.

Newtown Linford is named the poshest village in the UK. An average price of a house in this area is around £692,157.

13 COMMENTS

Thank you for such a lovely article. Reading your article made me encourage to travel england once again. Hope to see more of the related articles about UK.

You seem to have missed Yorkshire out. There are some stunning places to visit …Yorkshire dales…north Yorkshire Moors….!

very useful information and I hope one day I visit these places.

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Thank you so much for these information. We will spend our vacation in UK next month but there are some places that we are not familiar. Good thing I found this article.

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Explore the Beauty of the UK

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15 of the best things to do in England

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

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

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

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

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

1. Walk the magnificent medieval walls of York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Hit the world’s greatest museums in London

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

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

5. Cycle through the heart of England 

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

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

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

7. Surf the waves of Cornwall's wild coastline

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

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

8. Take a sea-sprayed train ride in Devon

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

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

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

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

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

10. Get lost in the lanes of Brighton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Eat fish and chips on the harbor at Whitby

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

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

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

15. Embrace Beatlemania in Liverpool

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

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

This article was first published Jun 27, 2022 and updated Mar 22, 2024.

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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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15 most beautiful places in England for a UK break

From meandering rivers and canals with motionless herons and barely moving barges to cathedral cities with ancient colleges and professors on bicycles, england is a country that delights at every turn.

T he quintessential English landscape comes in many different forms. Inland, it’s a confection of church spires and misty meadows, of crenellated manor houses with gorgeous gardens, and handsome Georgian villages trellised with roses. This is a landscape threaded by bucolic rivers lined with oak and willow, where rollercoaster dales are stitched with drystone walls. Along the coast, it’s lined by a mix of snaggle-toothed headlands and golden beaches, with creeks and estuaries that harbour old-fashioned resorts and fishing villages. And sitting offshore is a selection of islands, each of them distinctively different. Yet all of this is England — a place that has something for everyone. So here is our selection of the country’s most beautiful places to visit.

Main photo: Romney Marsh (Alamy)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

This ancient Roman city, encircled by its original walls, has a history that stretches back nearly 2,000 years. Its magnificent cathedral (aka “Minster”) has a fascinating story of restoration from a huge fire way back in 1984. Downtown, the city’s almost traffic-free centre is a lacework of cobbled medieval alleyways — the Shambles — where overhanging ancient mansions seem to whisper sweet nothings to each other. Wonky beams and sloping floors characterise most interiors, with tea and cake around every corner, particularly at the much-loved Bettys Café Tea Rooms. York is the home of Rowntree’s, the chocolate manufacturer, so there’s a chocolate museum and independent chocolatiers all over town.

• Best hotels in York • Best boutique hotels in York • Bets things to do in York

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2. holy island, northumberland.

The Northumberland coastline is a string of blemish-free sandy beaches interrupted by dramatic castles and old fishing villages. Sitting just offshore is the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, a mystical place reachable by a causeway that is only driveable (or walkable) at certain stages of the tide. On the island there’s a ruined priory, a 16th-century castle on a rock, and a real sense of peace among birdsong and woodsmoke. The island’s name dates back to the time when this was an early outpost of Christianity, and whether you’re a believer or not, it remains a place of serenity and contemplation, which puts daily life into perspective.

3. South Downs and the Seven Sisters

The grass-topped wave of hills of the Sussex Weald form the backbone of the South Downs, Britain’s newest national park. Up here are rollercoaster, sheep-grazed grasslands mixed with oak coppice and wildlife-rich heathland. These are chalk hills, although they only really show their colours where the downlands meet the sea, at the searingly white Seven Sisters cliffs. Striding along the cliff edge here, from Eastbourne to Seaford via Beachy Head and the beach at Cuckmere Haven, is one of England’s favourite coastal walks.

• The White Horse, Graffam, hotel review • The Pig in the South Downs hotel review

4. The North York Moors, Yorkshire

This national park with a coastline comes with all the credentials: Yorkshire ’s wild and wonderful rolling hills, infiltrated by pastoral valleys such as that at Rosedale, complete with old mine workings on the valley sides. A heritage steam railway clambers over the hills from Pickering to Grosmont, wheezing and blowing as it goes. Whitby is a lively coastal resort, renowned for its fish and chips, Dracula connections and ruined abbey. And then there’s the coastal path that struggles from sheltered bays to wild headlands, with spectacular views.

• Best hotels in Yorkshire

5. Grasmere and Ambleside, Cumbria

These two towns encapsulate so much that is great about the Lake District . Grasmere, with its bijou spangle of water, is all genteel sumptuousness, with boutique shopping, elegant eating and literary visits to Wordsworth’s cottage. More businesslike Ambleside, with its adventure outfitters, sits at the north end of boat-rich Windermere, the busiest and biggest of the English lakes. A short, steep climb up from here through rocky knolls to Loughrigg Fell grants an eyeful of everything, with stunning views of the serpentine length of Windermere and the Langdale Pikes.

• Best spa hotels in the Lake District • Best dog-friendly hotels in the Lake District • Best things to do in the Lake District • Best hotels in the Lake District

6. Chatsworth and Haddon, Derbyshire

England’s aristocratic country houses range across a kaleidoscope of styles and periods. The Duke of Devonshire’s Chatsworth House, for example, dominating its own river valley within the Peak District , is a sumptuous, family-owned property making the most of its mainly 18th-century assets with tours, trails and events. Meanwhile, a couple of valleys away, you can step back a few centuries into 13th-century Haddon Hall, one of the most perfectly preserved medieval properties in the UK, with its banqueting hall, Tudor painted ceilings and Elizabethan walled gardens.

• Best hotels in the Peak District

7. Bath, Somerset

A place of Roman baths and Georgian crescents, Bath sits cupped in hills in its own little world, one redolent of ball gowns and gossiping aristocracy, as observed by Jane Austen. The creamy-gold Bath stone and honeycomb of Palladian-influenced terracing, rising in curving ripples up the hillsides, are what makes the city so visually appealing. Somehow a river and a canal thread through, and at the heart of the city is the original thermal bath built by the Romans around AD75, with steam still rising from the hot spring.

• Best things to do in Bath • Best hotels in Bath

8. Cotswold villages, Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire

Manor houses, babbling brooks and hamlets of honey-coloured stone. Tea-rooms galore, artisan delicatessens, ancient churches and Bibury, the village that the artist William Morris described as “the most beautiful in England”. This is the Cotswolds . Mind you, Bourton-on-the-Water must be a challenger for the “most beautiful” title, too. Here the River Windrush flows across a generous green, spanned by footbridges and surrounded by handsome inns. Weeping willows trail their tresses in the water, ducks wait for chips and there’s a toasted teacake around every corner.

• Best hotels in the Cotswolds • Best spa hotels in the Cotswolds • Best dog-friendly hotels in the Cotswolds

9. Jurassic Coast, Dorset and Devon

This Unesco-recognised stretch of southern coastline starts at the eastern end, at the quirky resort of Swanage in Dorset , where the pillars of Old Harry Rocks overlook Poole Harbour. From here it reaches westwards, rounding wild St Aldhelms Head, stomping through fossil-rich Kimmeridge, to the almost perfect circle that is Lulworth Cove and the arch of Durdle Door. Then, from Weymouth , the Chesil shingle scythes westwards towards the cliffs of Charmouth and West Bay, so famous for their crumbliness and their fossil dinosaurs. The Regency resort of Lyme Regis, beyond, is where The French Lieutenant’s Woman was filmed.

• Best hotels in Dorset • Best beach hotels in the UK • Best hotels in Devon

10. Helford and Roseland, Cornwall

You don’t travel to Cornwall for the towns — unless they’re wedged up a creek or spilling into a bay. It’s the coast that counts, either the north for the wild and dramatic, or the south for the creeks and headlands. Both sides have beaches to be proud of, but for shelter and history seek out the south’s Helford River, the setting for Daphne du Maurier’s Frenchman’s Creek . East of Helford, the Roseland Peninsula begins at the posh fishing village of St Mawes. In this part of Cornwall, the spring gardens of Trelissick and Caerhays are ablaze with magnolias and camellias well before the rest of the country.

• Best beaches in Cornwall • Cornwall versus Devon: which is better? • Best hotels in Cornwall

11. Norfolk coast, Norfolk

North Norfolk is like a watercolour painting, where land, sea and sky seem to merge seamlessly into one another. Migrating wildfowl add their stitch to the skies overhead and seal colonies loll around on sandbanks like rolls of discarded carpet. Towns such as Burnham Market, with its art galleries and fine dining, are surprisingly posh — but then maybe that shouldn’t be a surprise, given that Holkham Hall, the residence of the Earl of Leicester, and Sandringham, the royal country retreat, are just inland.

• Best dog-friendly hotels in Norfolk • The Manor Coastal Hotel & Inn, Norfolk, review

12. Wye Valley, Herefordshire

Some say British tourism started back in 1745 on the languid, calm river at Ross-on-Wye, when the local rector took paying guests out for boat trips. Today a lot of the waterborne activity has dropped southwards to Symonds Yat, a mecca for kayakers and for walking its steep forested banks. Meanwhile in Ross, the venerable half-timbered frontages of the town stand back slightly uphill of the river, and it is mostly cyclists who follow the water, particularly its loveliest stretch up past Hole-in-the-Wall, burrowing through back roads towards Hereford.

• Best luxury places to stay in Herefordshire • Best Airbnbs in the UK

13. Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

The flat fens of Cambridgeshire seem an unlikely setting for a seat of learning, but the colleges and chapels of Cambridge inhabit their own mystical world, clustered along the banks of the somnolent River Cam. Unlike Oxford, which can be brash and busy, Cambridge is a place of robed figures emerging from ancient doorways and bumping away over cobbles on bicycles. To hire a punt and to float gently down the so-called Backs (the backs of many colleges) is to get a glimpse into a refined, timeless world.

• Best hotels in Cambridge • Best things to do in Cambridge

14. Rye and Romney Marshes, Kent and East Sussex

The medieval town of Rye was once one of the Cinque Ports — five defensive ports in Kent , Sussex and Essex mentioned in Magna Carta — and it seems to have barely changed, although the sea has since retreated. The town is a lacework of galleries, patisseries, wisteria and leaded windows. It stands proud above Romney’s former marshlands, now drained and striped with wheatfields. Beyond are the glorious beaches of Camber Sands and the surreal shingle shore of Dungeness, with its unique fishing fleet.

• Best spa hotels in Sussex • Best hotels in Sussex • Best luxury hotels in Sussex

15. Test Valley, Hampshire

A maze of intersecting country lanes and the gurgling gin-clear waters of some of the most expensive fishing river in England makes this an intoxicating slice of English countryside. Stretching roughly from the village of Hurstbourne Priors down to Romsey, this is a place to spot lazy trout and idyllic waterside mansions. A place to fossick out iconic pubs like the Mayfly or the Peat Spade, and historical buildings such as the National Trust’s Mottisfont Abbey, with its celebrated rose garden. Even Waitrose is here with its Leckford Estate, with 4,000 acres of farming, fishing and water gardens.

• Best hotels in Hampshire • Best UK destinations to visit • Best beaches in England • Places in the UK that look just like France

Take me there

Inspired to visit England but yet to book your trip? Here are the best places to stay from Cottages.com and Mr and Mrs Smith .

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

30 Best & Prettiest Places to Visit in The UK

14 June 2023 · In: England , Scotland , UK , Wales

Are you looking for the best places and coolest cities to visit in the UK ? You have come to the right place! This article walks you through 30 locations to add to your bucket list for an unforgettable adventure, whether you are going for a day trip, a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation.

The UK is a beautiful country which has much to offer! From quaint villages and stunning National Parks to iconic historical sites and ancient woodlands, you will find plenty of things to do for a holiday full of diversity and surprises.

I arrived in the UK in 2016 and am constantly amazed at how much I still have to discover. It is always a pleasure to explore the country, from Cornwall to the Scottish Highlands passing through the Lake District – I love learning about British culture and heritage.

So, are you ready to discover the top 30 places in the UK that you must visit ? Let’s get started! And, of course, let me know in the comments below if you have any suggestions 🙂

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information,  read our full affiliate disclosure .

30- Trossachs National Park, Scotland

Overview: top places to visit in the uk.

1- The Lake District, England 2- Scottish Highlands 3- York, England 4- The Cotswolds, England 5- Jurassic Coast, England 6- Snowdonia, Wales 7- Stonehenge, England 8- Cambridge, England 9- Peak District, England 10- Cornwall, England

11- Edinburgh, Scotland 12- South Downs, England 13- Bath, England 14- Yorkshire Dales, England 15- Oxford, England 16- Giant’s Causeway, Ireland 17- London, England 18- Liverpool, England 19- Glasgow, Scotland 20- Windsor Castle, England

21- Manchester, England 22- Brighton, England 23- Isle of Wight, England 24- Bristol, England 25- Pembrokeshire, Wales 26- Cheddar Gorge, England 27- Belfast, Ireland 28- St Michael’s Mount, England 29- Chester, England 30- Trossachs, Scotland

READ MORE: London to Edinburgh Drive: 20+ Best Stops

Cool places to visit in the UK – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

30 must-visit places in the UK

1- the lake district, england.

One of the best places to visit in the UK is, without a doubt, the incredible Lake District, the  largest National Park in England and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It is home to Scafell Pike, its highest mountain, and Wastwater, its deepest lake.

Located in northwest England, this  mountainous area  is the ideal relaxing place to reconnect with nature and take time for yourself. Hike through stunning landscapes, admire the views, explore picturesque villages and learn about its rich cultural heritage.

Whether you are an adventure addict or in search of tranquillity, there is something for everyone, whatever the season! Especially if you love spending time in nature and camping ( 10 Best Campsites in the Lake District, UK ).

The National Park is also perfect for families with children as it provides plenty of opportunities for  outdoor activities  such as cycling, kayaking, paddle boarding and more.

My experience – the Lake District is my favourite place to visit in the UK! I discovered it a few years ago when my partner Matt took me camping and fell in love with it. I live only 1h30 away, so I have the chance to explore it often and on weekends, and it always feels like a bowl of fresh air, a place where I can disconnect and enjoy the outdoors. My favourite town is Ambleside, and one of my favourite campsites is The Great Landgale 🙂 

READ MORE: 10 Best Easy Walks & Hikes in The Lake District

Things to do & see in the Lake District

• See Lake Windermere
• Take the Ullswater streamer
• Hike Scafell Pike
• Walk around Lake Buttermere
• Visit Ambleside
• Wander Whinlatter Forest Park
• Hike to Castlerigg Stone Circle
• Wild swim at Blea Tarn
• Kayak on Derwentwater
• Picnic at Tarn Hows

Unforgettable experiences & tours

2- scottish highlands, scotland.

The Scottish Highlands   are an  impressive mountainous area  encircling the northwest of Scotland. The region is the largest in the country and home to breathtaking scenery, including the   legendary Loch Ness  and its mythical monster Nessie. 

With picturesque landscapes, fascinating castles and rich culture, it is no wonder why it is one of the best places to visit in the UK. 

Discover the enigmatic Loch Ness, explore the Cairngorms National Park, admire iconic castles on the Isle of Skye, road trip through the  North Coast 500  or climb up the highest peak in Britain, Ben Nevis.

The Scottish Highlands is also an incredible place to  experience wildlife , from seeing dolphins swimming in the Moray Firth to witnessing red deer roaming the Glencoe Valley.

My experience – I love the Scottish Highlands! I discovered Scotland in 2016 and fell in love with the country. The landscapes are all incredible, and the locals are lovely. I particularly enjoyed exploring the area around Loch Ness – there are so many cool things to do and see. It is a great place to discover if you are a nature lover or photo enthusiast. One of my dreams is also to do the NC 500 – it is on my bucket list! 

READ MORE: Loch Ness Travel Guide: 10 Best Things to Do

Things to do & see in the Scottish Highlands

• Discover Loch Ness
• Climb up Ben Nevis
• Visit Urquhart Castle
• Explore Glen Coe Valley
• Stop by Fort William
• Take a photo of Glenfinnan Viaduct
• Admire Loch Shiel
• Tour a Scottish distillery
• Explore the Isle of Skye
• Marvel Eilean Donan Castle

3- York, England

York is a  vibrant city  in northeast England perfectly set within the Yorkshire Dales, founded by the ancient Romans and offering a perfect experience for everyone. 

It is a  walkable city   packed with plenty of things to do , from its impressive 13th-century Gothic cathedral, York Minster, to its Ancient Walls surrounding local shops, attractions, restaurants and bars, hosting lively events every day and festivals every month.

Watch a horse race at its renowned racecourse, visit its inspiring museums, taste local dishes and enjoy its thriving cultural scene – it is a fun place to explore in the UK on a  short city break and a week-long vacation . 

Things to do & see in York

• Wander the Shambles
• Marvel at York Minster
• Climb Clifford’s Tower
• Visit the many museums
• Walk the city walls
• Cruise down the river
• Stop by Jorvik Viking Centre
• Visit the National Railway Museum

4- The Cotswolds, England

The Cotswolds is a  beautiful region in Gloucestershire , filled with quaint villages, miles of countryside walks and beautiful landscapes which are easy to explore by car or bike.

READ MORE: 16 Most Beautiful Villages in The Cotswolds

The area is perfect for  immersing yourself in British country life  and escaping the busy cities. Here are a few lovely places you can add to your itinerary whilst visiting the Cotswolds:

• Castle Combe : a beautiful village rich in history with its Market Cross and St Andrew’s Church.
• Bilbury : a charming village with quaint streets and brick cottages, famous for its Arlington Row street.
• Burford : a small medieval village with its famous High Street rising from the church and river.
• Bourton-on-the-Water : an old town on River Windrush known for its low bridges and traditional stone houses.
• The Slaughters : two twin picturesque villages boasting traditional limestone cottages.
• Stow-on-the-Wold : a delightful market town perched at the top of a hill at nearly 800 feet. 

5- Jurassic Coast, England

The Jurassic Coast is a  95-mile-long strip of coastline  in southern England, from Exmouth in Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset, and a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  famous for its unique rocks, fossils and landforms.

It is one of the most  popular tourist destinations in Britain  and a fantastic place to explore for all ages. From pretty seaside towns and golden beaches to impressive cliffs and breathtaking views, the Jurassic Coast is undoubtedly a must-visit in the UK.

And if you like walking, why not venture on a part of  South West Coast Path ? It will take you through beautiful treasures, sceneries and villages.

My experience – Old Harry Rocks are some of the most impressive cliffs I have ever seen! It is so breathtaking that it gave me vertigo, which never happens. The white colour of the rock contrasting with the blue of the water and the green of the grass make a perfect scenery worth the visit.

Things to do & see on the Jurassic Coast

• Hike to Old Harry Rocks
• Visit Corfe Village & its castle
• Admire Lulworth Cove
• Take a photo of the Durdle Door 
• Enjoy the views from the Golden Cap 
• Explore Weymouth
• Stop by Abbotsbury
• Discover the West Bay
• Wander along Charmouth Beach
• Ramble through Lyme Regis

6- Snowdonia, Wales

Another incredible National Park in the UK is Snowdonia, a  mountainous region in North Wales  full of beauty and history. Whether you are into relaxation or adventure, it has much to offer! 

The area welcomes you amidst stunning landscapes, from rivers to hills and woodlands – a perfect place to reconnect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. It is also home to many  hiking trails, over 100 lakes and rugged peaks  to climb. 

READ MORE: 10 Best Easy Walks & Hikes in Snowdonia

Plus, it is impossible not to mention this National Park without its iconic  Mount Snowdon , the highest mountain in England and Wales, offering breathtaking views across the sea to Ireland. 

My experience – I was never thinking of Wales as a travel destination, yet, I was surprised on my first visit. It had such a beautiful atmosphere with its forests and green hills – I loved it! Since then, I have visited the country and National Park many times and have consistently had a great experience. I particularly love hopping on the Snowdon Mountain Railway to reach the top of Snowdon.

READ MORE: 10 Best Campsites in Snowdonia National Park

Things to do & see in Snowdonia

• Hike up Mount Snowdon
• Drive the Llanberis Pass
• Stroll through Dolgellau
• Stop by Portmeirion
• Discover the Llyn Ogwen area
• Climb up Tryfan
• Wild swim in its lakes
• Hope on the Ffestiniog Railway
• Explore Ceunant Cynfal

7- Stonehenge, England

Stonehenge is a  prehistoric monument  on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, consisting of an outer ring of vertical standing stones topped by joined horizontal stones.

Book your ticket online  and experience the unique atmosphere of the  Stone Circle  as you follow in the footsteps of the prehistoric people who lived here 4,000 years ago. You can also stop by the  exhibition  to learn more and explore the  Neolithic village  – a perfect day of adventure for all the family and history buffs.

So make sure to add this historical place to your UK bucket list and uncover one of the  most iconic sites of Britain  and its fascinating past.

8- Cambridge, England

A name you must have heard for its famous academic scene: the iconic Cambridge.  Compact and beautiful , the city is globally known for its top university but is also so much more.

Wander through its  picturesque streets , marvel at its architectural richness and delve into its fascinating history in  world-class museums . 

And for a fun and unusual perspective on the city, discover it from the water by  punting on the River Cam . You will come across significant landmarks like the King’s College Chapel and the Mathematical Bridge – all whilst enjoying the outdoors. 

Things to do & see in Cambridge

• Tour King’s College Chapel
• Visit the University buildings
• Go punting on River Cam
• Admire the Mathematical Bridge
• Marvel at St John’s College
• Enjoy the view from Great St Mary’s Church
• See the Bridge of Sighs
• Stroll around Corpus Christi College

9- Peak District, England

You will find the Peak District National Park in central England, a beautiful region famous for its  dramatic scenery and steep limestone valleys .

From  peaceful countryside walks  and scenic bike trails to exciting rock climbing adventures and quaint villages, there are endless things to do and see in this National Park. 

However long you stay, it is the perfect place for a family camping trip, a solo hiking venture or a romantic couple getaway under the stars. 

READ MORE: Best Hikes in the UK: 16 Scenic Walking Trails

Things to do & see in the Peak District

• Discover Edensor
• Wander around Bakewell
• Ramble along Mam Tor
• Climb up to Bamford Edge
• Explore Winnats Pass
• Stroll through Castleton
• Hike to Cave Dale
• Wild swim at Three Shires Head

10- Cornwall, England

Cornwall is a county and the  extreme southwestern peninsula of England,  surrounding wild moorland and numerous sandy beaches, culminating at Land’s End headland. It has the longest stretch of continuous coastline in Britain and is  one of the sunniest parts  of the country. 

With traditional fishing villages, golden beaches, clear blue waters, rugged cliffs and unique architecture, it is also  one of the most scenic areas  of England and a fun place to explore. 

Plus, Cornwall hosts many  events and festivals , making it a must-visit destination in the summer. And, of course, do not miss out on tasting one of its Cornish pasties on your stay! 

My experience – I visited Cornwall in the summer for a week and loved it! It was so relaxing. We spent our days exploring small villages, hiking along the coast, going to the beach or kayaking. You will find many nice things to do and see in the area, and I wish we stayed longer! 

READ MORE: Where to Stay in Cornwall: 10 Best Areas

Things to do & see in Cornwall

• Admire St Michael’s Mount
• Explore Watergate Bay
• Visit St Piran’s Oratory
• Ramble through Bodmin Moor
• Relax at Gwithian Beach
• Marvel at the Minack Theatre
• Discover Tintagel Castle
• Walk around the Lizard Peninsula
• Visit the Cornish Seal Sanctuary
• Spend time in St Ives

11- Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is the  magical hilly capital of Scotland  and one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. By wandering through its streets, you will come across a medieval Old Town and an elegant Georgian New Town with gardens and neoclassical buildings.

Perched on a rock above the city is the iconic  Edinburgh Castle , home to the crown jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny; a must-see on your city break! 

You can not also miss  Arthur’s Seat , the towering summit of Holyrood Park offering a network of trails and stunning views, and Calton Hill, a quiet place to watch the sunset, topped with monuments and memorials.

My experience – Edinburgh is my favourite city in the UK and where I would live if I did not live in Manchester. I have had the chance to visit the Scottish capital twice in different seasons, and each time was incredible. I fell in love with its atmosphere and architecture. A place I highly recommend you visit , especially in winter and around Christmas.

READ MORE: 3 Magical Days in Edinburgh: City Itinerary

Things to do & see in Edinburgh

• Visit Edinburgh Castle
• Walk the Royal Mile
• Hike up Arthur’s Seat
• Stop by The Elephant House
• Watch the sunset from Calton Hill
• Tour Holyrood Palace & Holyrood Abbey
• Stroll through Victoria Street
• Enjoy the view from the Scott Monument
• Explore the National Museum of Scotland
• Discover Dean Village

12- South Downs, England

Just a short journey from London, the South Downs is a National Park featuring  a range of chalk hills  in the southeastern coastal counties of England.

With scenic rolling green hills, spectacular hiking and cycling trails, quaint villages, ancient woodland, wildlife-rich moorland and towering cliffs, South Downs is an excellent place to  escape the buzz of the city and disconnect  in this peaceful part of Hampshire.

And if you love hiking, follow the  South Downs Way  or a part of it to enjoy some breathtaking views along the park. 

Things to do & see in the South Downs

• Visit Amberley
• Ramble through Petworth
• Hike the Seven Sisters 
• Explore Winchester
• Stop by Midhurst
• Visit Arundel Castle
• Walk to the Devil’s Dyke
• Enjoy the view from Butser Hill 
• Stroll through Brighton

13- Bath, England

As  one of the most beautiful cities  in England, I could not miss Bath and not add it to this bucket list as one of the best places to visit in the UK.

The city, the only one in the UK designated a  UNESCO World Heritage Site , is known for its Roman baths and incredible atmosphere. Setting foot in Bath is like stepping back in history, making it a place worth the visit. Plus, it is the  perfect holiday destination  for couples on a romantic getaway.

Take the time to  explore this city full of beauty and history . Visit the Roman Baths dating back to AD 43, stroll past architectural masterpieces like the Royal Crescent or enjoy a visit to the Jane Austen Centre. You will not get bored!

Things to do & see in Bath

• Discover the Roman Baths
• Admire Pulteney Bridge
• Relax at the Thermae Spa
• Explore Bath Abbey
• See the Royal Crescent
• Walk down Green Street
• Enjoy a boat cruise on the River Avon
• Stroll through its markets
• Stop by the Jane Austen Centre

14- Yorkshire Dales, England

The Yorkshire Dales is a  scenic National Park  in northern England, encompassing thousands of miles of moorland, valleys, hills and villages. 

It is home to unique landscapes,  impressive castles and abbeys , and a peaceful atmosphere – perfect for a weekend escape or a week-long trip with the family. 

From  spectacular waterfalls to ancient woodlands  and quaint villages, there are plenty of things to do and see in the area, so make sure to add it to your UK bucket list. 

Things to do & see in Yorkshire Dales

• Discover the geological Malham Cove
• Explore the Swaledale area
• Visit the Bolton Abbey Estate
• Explore the underground caves
• Hike the Yorkshire Three Peaks
• Take a photo of the Ribblehead Viaduct
• Drive the Buttertubs Pass
• Hire a bike & explore
• Admire the ruins of Fountains Abbey
• Climb up Brimham Rocks 

15- Oxford, England

Whilst you might have heard about this city through its  prestigious university  established in the 12th century (one of the best in the world), Oxford is more than that and an interesting place well worth visiting.

From inspiring museums to buzzing bars and hidden waterways, this city, located in central southern England, is  full of culture and history . 

Take the time to wander its streets, tour its renowned college and stroll along its river. And even if it is for a short stay, Oxford is a perfect place for a weekend getaway with friends or family.

Finally,  if you are a culture/art lover , Oxford was where parts of Harry Potter were filmed, J.R.R. Tolkien shared lectures, and Lewis Carrol wrote  Alice in Wonderland.

Things to do & see in Oxford

• Visit the Ashmolean Museum
• Join a University of Oxford tour
• Tour the Pitt Rivers Museum
• Go on a river cruise
• Try yourself at river punting
• Unwind in the Oxford Botanic Gardens
• Picnic on Port Meadow
• See Oxford Castle
• Step inside the Bodleian Library 

16- Giant’s Causeway, Ireland 

You will find Giant’s Causeway at the foot of the basalt cliffs along the sea coast on the edge of the Antrim plateau in Northern Ireland. It consists of  over 40,000 giant black basalt columns  in perfect horizontal sections, rising out of the sea and forming a pavement   – the result of an ancient volcanic eruption.

The Giant’s Causeway is a  breathtaking area of international geological significance . Over the past 300 years, studies of these formations have contributed to the development of earth science and demonstrated that this remarkable landscape was formed by volcanic activity approximately 50 to 60 million years ago.

Today, the site is open to everyone and is a  popular tourist attraction in the UK  to explore for stunning views – and fun photos! 

Note that pedestrian access to the site is free, but you can also book a guided tour to learn more about the area. A charge will also apply for using the facilities such as parking and the entrance to the visitor centre exhibition. 

17- London, England

Impossible not to have heard of the bustling capital of England and the United Kingdom! London is a 21st-century city with a history dating back to Roman times. It is today a  perfect representation of tradition and modernity .

At its centre, you will find the imposing Houses of Parliament, the iconic  Big Ben  clock tower and  Westminster Abbey , the site of British monarch coronations. 

On the other side of the Thames River is the  London Eye  observation wheel providing scenic views of the South Bank cultural complex and the entire city – an experience like no other! 

My experience – London is a city I love exploring as there is always so much to do and see. I would recommend staying for a few days or a long weekend to have time to see the main attractions. And do not forget to wear comfortable shoes as you might do a lot of walking! Alternatively, the city has a great subway network, or hop on the bus and enjoy the scenery. 

READ MORE: 3 Perfect Days in London: Complete Itinerary

Things to do & see in London

• Take in the view from the London Eye
• Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace 
• Admire Westminster Abbey
• Cross the Tower Bridge 
• Take a photo of Big Ben & Houses of Parliament
• Enjoy the buzz of Piccadilly Circus
• Marvel at St Paul’s Cathedral 
• Stroll through Covent Garden 
• Visit the Natural History Museum
• Go on top of the impressive Shard

18- Liverpool, England

Another city you must have heard of for its famous football team and music scene as the birthplace of the Beatles, Liverpool is a  maritime city in northwest England  – and an interesting place to visit in the UK!

Home to one of the most significant industrial heritages in Britain and considered the  capital of culture , Liverpool has something for everyone. 

Whether you are a history buff, a music enthusiast or an art lover, this creative city offers many attractions, whatever the season. 

Enjoy a stroll along its docks, tour  The Beatles Story , immerse yourself in its fascinating culture or stop by the  Cavern Club  for a night you will never forget – there are endless things you will love to do. 

My experience – Liverpool is a city I love visiting on a day trip. It is not far from Manchester and easily accessible from anywhere. Plus, if you love the Beatles like me, you will enjoy exploring the city and learning more about the band and iconic locations. 

Things to do & see in Liverpool

• Walk along the Royal Albert Dock
• Visit the British Music Experience
• Stop by the St George’s Hall
• Tour The Beatles Story 
• Enjoy live music at the Cavern Club
• Cruise across the River Mersey
• Stroll through the Georgian Quarter

19- Glasgow, Scotland

Glasgow is a port city on the River Clyde and the largest city in Scotland renowned for its  Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture , a rich legacy of its 18th and 20th-century prosperity from trade and shipbuilding. 

Today, the city is famous as a  national cultural hub , home to some of the  best artistic attractions in Scotland  and institutions, including the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet and National Theatre of Scotland, world-class museums and a thriving music scene.

Spend time exploring its fascinating free museums and galleries, enjoy the best place to shop in the UK outside of London and take advantage of over 130 weekly musical events for a memorable night out. In addition, Glasgow is the perfect base for  exploring the Scottish Highlands and the islands .

Things to do & see in Glasgow

• Tour Kelvingrove Museum
• Wander down Buchanan Street
• Relax at Glasgow Green
• Admire the Burrell collection
• Vist the Pollok House
• Explore George Square
• See the City Chambers
• Discover the Glasgow Cathedral

20- Windsor Castle, England

No UK bucket list would be complete without the famous Windsor Castle, the  oldest and largest occupied castle in the world  and the family home to British kings and queens for over 1,000 years set in the English county of Berkshire.

Today, it is  one of the official residences of His Majesty The King  and a unique site to explore and soak up the English culture, as it embodies almost a millennium of architectural history.

And with many areas to visit, Windsor Castle has something for everyone. Allow 2 to 3 hours to see it all, or dedicate a day and  enjoy an ultimate royal experience  – the perfect attraction for families with kids, open to the public all year round.

Things to do & see at Windsor Castle

• Tour the majestic State Apartments 
• Admire the most incredible collection of paintings 
• See the Grand Reception Room decorated with real gold
• Marvel at the grandeur of St George’s Chapel
• Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony

Top tips for visiting Windsor Castle

• Book your tickets  in advance to avoid the queues
• Always check the opening dates and provisional closure times
• Consider visiting the Castle in winter for a unique atmosphere
• Look out for special tours throughout the year 

21- Manchester, England

With a  thriving cultural scene and rich industrial heritage , Manchester is another city to add to your list of the best places to visit in the UK and an exciting place to discover for all ages.

Known as a textile powerhouse and home to the first inter-city passenger railway, the bustling city is packed with treasures and is an ideal way to  learn more about northwest England . 

Whether you are into culture, quirky pubs, history or entertainment, you will not run out of ideas for things to do in Manchester. From its renowned football clubs to its refined art exhibitions and live music theatres, it is one of the coolest cities in England – and  one of the best cities in the UK for nightlife ! 

My experience – Manchester is where I live and one of my favourite cities in the UK. I love its atmosphere, diverse restaurants and bars, and vibrant nightlife. I believe the city is more a place to live than visit, but there are still many things to discover. 

Things to do & see in Manchester

• Stroll through Ancoats & the Northern Quarters
• Visit the Manchester Museum
• Discover the John Rylands Library
• Stop by the Manchester Art Gallery
• Catch a show at one of its theatres
• Explore the Museum of Science and Industry
• Tour the Old Trafford 
• Admire the City Town Hall

22- Brighton, England

Welcome to Brighton, an  inclusive and eclectic seaside resort in East Sussex . The city is a perfect mix of modern culture and trendy architecture and a nice place to stay for a weekend or a few days, especially in the summer.

With a  thriving art and music scene , an abundance of independent shops, boutique hotels and outstanding restaurants, the city has much to offer! 

Plus, if you are into  nature and the outdoors , you have come to the right place. Brighton has miles of beaches and is at the heart of the UNESCO World Biosphere Region. In addition, it borders the beautiful South Downs National Park previously mentioned. 

Things to do & see in Brighton

• Discover Brighton Pier
• Visit the Royal Pavilion
• Stroll down The Lanes
• Experience Brighton Pride
• Tour Brighton Art Museum and Gallery
• Explore the Seven Sisters
• Relax at the beach
• Enjoy the view from the i360

23- Isle of Wight, England

The Isle of Wight is a  charming island off the south coast of England , known for its beaches and seafront promenades like Shanklin Beach and Ventnor Beach, which features vintage beach huts. 

Just over 2 hours from London by ferry, the island, recently crowned a UNESCO Biosphere, is easy to access and is an  ideal year-round holiday destination , offering a stunning collection of landscapes and a comprehensive list of things to do.

So hop on your bike and explore this wonderful island full of hidden gems! From dinosaur remains and fossils to impressive cliffs and a beautiful 19th-century lighthouse, you will have a fantastic experience.

Things to do & see on the Isle of Wight

• Discover the Osborne House
• See Carisbrooke Castle
• Admire The Needles
• Visit the Donkey Sanctuary
• Hike along the coastal path
• Explore Steephill Cove
• Hop on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway

24- Cheddar Gorge, England

Cheddar Gorge is a  spectacular limestone gorge in the Mendip Hills  in Somerset, featuring breathtaking cliffs and hidden caves. It is one of the most  spectacular natural landmarks  in Britain – and a must-visit.

The Gorge is also the site of the  Cheddar Show Caves , where the oldest complete human skeleton, Cheddar Man, was discovered in 1903, aged around 9,000 years.

Whether you love nature, wildlife, history or adventure, this is the place for you! Discover fascinating secrets about our prehistoric ancestors and try yourself at rock climbing. Cheddar Gorge is a  perfect all-season destination  for any traveller.

25- Bristol, England

Bristol is a  buzzing city straddling the River Avon  in southwest England with a thriving maritime history. Its former city-centre port is now a lively cultural hub, the Harbourside, where the  M Shed Museum  explores local social and industrial heritage. 

The 19th-century warehouses of the harbour also contain restaurants, shops and cultural institutions like  The Arnolfini , a contemporary art gallery.

Uncover historic landmarks, taste your vertigo on the  Clifton Suspension Bridge , seek out awe-inspiring street art and do not miss out on the  Bristol International Balloon Fiesta  in August.

Things to do & see in Bristol

• Cross the Clifton Suspension Bridge
• Wander through St Nicks Market 
• See inspiring street art
• Visit the SS Great Britain
• Tour the M Shed
• Stroll along Harbourside
• Head to the top of Cabot Tower
• Marvel at Bristol Cathedral 

26- Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales

Pembrokeshire Coast is a  National Park along the coast of West Wales . Founded in 1952, it offers today a variety of breathtaking landscapes, including hills, estuaries, valleys and woodlands.

It is one of the smallest National Parks but still has so much to offer! It provides  limitless possibilities to enjoy the outdoors , from intricate stripes of cliffs to stunning beaches and hidden coves.

National Geographic Traveler  magazine in the US even rated the Pembrokeshire Coast as one of the  top coastal destinations in the world . No wonder it is one of the best places to visit in the UK! 

Things to do & see in Pembrokeshire

• Test your surf at Freshwater West
• Walk the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
• Visit St Davids Cathedral
• Go birdwatching on Skomer Island
• Explore its many beaches
• Stop by the town of Tenby
• Go coasteering in the Blue Lagoon
• Explore Laugharne
• Admire Pembroke Castle 
• Marvel at Ancient Dolmens

27- Belfast, Ireland

Another great place to add to your UK bucket list is Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. It was the  birthplace of the RMS Titanic , which famously crashed into an iceberg and sank in 1912.

You will find the legacy of the Titan in the renovated Titanic Quarter dockyards, including the  Titanic Belfast , a museum covered in aluminium, reminiscent of the hull of a ship, and shipbuilder  Harland & Wolff’s Drawing Offices  and the  Titanic Slipways , which today host open-air concerts. 

But Belfast is also more than that! It is a  perfect city to explore for a short or long trip . Immerse yourself in art and culture, enjoy local food and have a nice night out – you will not regret it!

Things to do & see in Belfast

• Enjoy one of its many pubs
• Tour Belfast City Hall
• Wander around the Botanic Gardens
• Visit Titanic Belfast
• Discover the Ulster Museum
• Explore Belfast Castle
• Admire St. Anne’s Cathedral
• Head to Cave Hill Country Park
• See the impressive Stormont

28- St Michael’s Mount, England

St Michael’s Mount is a  tidal island with a majestic castle perched on top  in Mount’s Bay, off the coast of Cornwall. The island is a civil parish connected to the town of Marazion by a  hidden path passable only between low and mid-tide .

From an ancient castle fortress and subtropical gardens to perfect lawns and a harbour village, there are  plenty of things to discover on the island  – so plan your visit according to the tides to enjoy all it offers.

You can access St Michael’s Mount  on foot at low tide  by crossing the cobbled causeway. But if the tide is too high, you can  use boats  that run regularly from Marazion. 

My experience – I discovered this magical island when I stayed in Cornwall and loved it! It reminded me of Mont Saint-Michel in France. I saw the island at high tide, so I did not have the chance to visit it, but I experienced it at sunset, which was beautiful, especially if you love taking photos. 

Things to do & see on St Michael’s Mount 

• Visit the Castle
• Explore the Garden
• Step inside the Church
• Wander through the village
• Walk along the harbour
• Shop local souvenirs

29- Chester, England

Right on the border with Wales in northwest England, you will come across Chester, a  Roman fortress  founded in the 1st century AD, known for its  extensive walls constructed with local red sandstone .

Wandering through the  centre of the Ancient Town  is an experience like no other. From the impressive city walls to the oldest hippodrome and the  largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain , a visit to Chester will leave you with unforgettable memories – especially in winter when the atmosphere is incredible. 

And, if shopping is more your thing, check out the  700-year-old Rows , a medieval timber building with elevated galleries that you can not find anywhere else in the world.

Things to do & see in Chester

• Wander on Chester City Walls
• Marvel at Chester Cathedral
• Visit the Roman Amphitheatre
• Admire the Eastgate Clock
• Shop at the historic Rows galleries
• Walk through the Roman Gardens
• Stop by the Grosvenor Museum
• Stroll through The Groves

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is, as his name suggests, a  National Park in Scotland centred on Loch Lomond and the hills of the Trossachs . It is an iconic place to visit in the UK due to its outstanding scenery, varied wildlife and welcoming local communities. 

The National Park is packed with  fun things to do and natural gems  to explore. Enjoy a boat cruise on the Loch as you admire Ben Lomond, visit one of its 30 islands, hike one of the rocky peaks or plan a camping trip in the summer.

Whatever type of adventure  you want to experience, you will find it in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park!

READ MORE: The 15 UK National Parks: Complete Guide

Things to do & see in Trossachs National Park

• Go on a scenic hike
• Visit the village of Luss
• Try kayaking or paddleboarding
• Spot wallabies on Inchconnachan
• Discover the Falls of Dochart in Killin
• Explore Balloch Country Park
• Drive along the west side of Loch Lomond

Shop the printable travel planner

Create & plan your perfect vacation in the UK.

Sustainable travel in the UK

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Being a responsible traveller whilst exploring the UK is possible! Here are some  sustainable tips for reducing your carbon footprint :

• Use green methods of transport . Use public transport as much as possible to travel to and from your destination. Once there, prioritise walking or cycling. 
• Select an eco-friendly accommodation . It is not always easy to determine whether a hotel has eco-conscious practices, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use  Bookdifferent  or  Ecobnb  to help you decide. And if you like nature and the outdoors, why not organise a camping trip?
• Shop local & eat at local restaurants  that use produce from the region. It will contribute to the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint by supporting restaurants where food does not come from long distances.
• Treat the landscapes and wildlife with respect .   Do not come close to animals, do not feed them and respect their home. Always pay attention to where you drive, park your car and walk.
• Bring a reusable filtered water bottle with you . It will help avoid buying single-use plastic bottles that will be wasted. Instead, refill your water bottle whenever you can – at a rest stop or in a river! It will also help you save money and stay hydrated on the go.
• Do not leave a trace . Do not litter and pick up any trash you encounter. Leftover waste can be extremely harmful to the local ecosystem. So, once again, be zero waste and take your garbage with you. 
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful and smile!

WANT MORE INSPIRATION?

• The Complete Guide to Sustainable Travel
• 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure

UK travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to the UK? Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your vacation in the UK stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

💧 Can you drink the water in the UK? Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over the UK. However, I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in the UK? Yes, renting a car in the UK is easy and is a great way to explore the country freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

🏨 How to book accommodation in the UK? The best way to book your accommodation in the UK is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable hotels to luxury resorts.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to the UK? I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

And you, what is your favourite place to visit in the UK? Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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The Most Beautiful Places in England for Your Bucket List (Besides London)

Last Updated: February 3, 2021

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I think it’s time to admit the truth, guys… I’m beyond obsessed with England.

After all, as a little girl growing up in Canada, my daily routine consisted of practicing Harry Potter spells, jamming out to the Beatles and dreaming of (one day) marrying into the royal family…

And while I’ve grown older and wiser, (with more realistic goals), my fascination with England has never really ceased. From admiring the country in books and film to exploring its beauty for myself, I’m officially more England-obsessed than ever.

Especially when last month, I had the freedom to explore England by train with BritRail , I realized just how many overlooked destinations there are in this amazing country. Most visitors will flock to London, but today we’re going to dig beyond the capital, from dramatically rugged coastlines to Hogwarts- esque architectural magic. So, if you’re seeking inspiration for your next trip, here are some of the most beautiful places in England I’ve visited so far, plus a few that I have eagerly on my list.

PS: I know I’m still missing plenty of amazing destinations! Let me know in the comments what spots in England I should check out on my next trip.

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BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN ENGLAND MAP

Stunningly beautiful places to visit in england (besides london).

England is filled top to bottom with amazing places to explore. Here are a few of my favourites…

1. The Cotswolds

With rolling green hills and charmingly sleepy villages, the Cotswolds are often thought to represent English quaintness at its best. And yes, having road tripped around this area twice now, I can confirm that it is every bit as lovely and wonderful as the photos suggest.

There’s so much the Cotswolds have to offer, whether it’s village hopping, antique shopping or nursing a pint or ten in some mega-cozy pubs, so if it’s loveliness on steroids you’re after, be sure to visit the Cotswolds! For extra inspo, click here for my roundup of the best Cotswold villages and towns to visit.

Ask anyone about the most beautiful cities in England, and odds are, you’ll be hearing Bath again and again. Combining a postcard-perfect appeal with unique attractions like a stunning Abbey and historic Roman Baths, this Somerset gem is bar none one of the most beautiful places in the UK.

And whether it’s indulging in a world-famous Sally Lunn bun, or soaking in a day of pampering at Thermae Bath Spa, one thing’s for sure: Bath is a city you need on your bucket list. Click here for my Bath itinerary for a taste of what this city has to offer!

3. Cornwall

Venture to the Westernmost point of the country and you’ll be questioning whether or not you’re still in England. The turquoise blue waters of this unique peninsula make it an easy doppleganger for paradise destinations like Southern France or Italy.

In Cornwall, you’ll find a bit of everything, from white sand beaches and rugged cliffs to quaint fishing villages and historic ruins. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at surfing (and fail miserably like I did) or as a safer bet, tuck into some of the freshest seafood the UK has to offer.

PS: You have not lived life until you’ve tasted the glory of a fresh Cornish pasty. Packing tip – don’t forget your stretchy pants.

4. The Jurassic Coast

This 95 mile stretch along Southern England (from East Devon to Dorset) is considered one of the most picturesque places in the UK… a fact that’s impossible to argue once you’ve seen it.

With dozens of beautiful towns and villages to explore (including one actually  named ‘Beer’), Jurassic Coast visitors are spoiled silly for choice. Unique rock formations and clear blue waters can be found all along this stunning coastline, but if you’re truly crunched for time, don’t miss the iconic Durdle Door in Dorset, a natural limestone arch that is just begging to be photographed.

5. Liverpool

Contrary to popular belief, there is way more to this maritime marvel than its most famous export – the Beatles.

After visiting last month, Liverpool has quickly become one of my favourite cities in England. Besides plenty of world class museums and a vibrant international food scene, Liverpool is full of cool surprises at every turn, from the quirky Superlambanana mascot (yes, literally a lamb/banana hybrid) to architectural gems like this UFO-esque cathedral that (somehow) is even cooler on the inside!

And for Fab Four fanatics, there are plenty of opportunities to run wild, from rocking out at the Cavern Club (where the Beatles played countless gigs) to retracing history at the Beatles Story Museum and Magical Mystery Tour. My fellow fangirls, this city will complete you.

Now, Oxford is likely a city that needs no introduction. Its reputable university makes it one of the most famous places in England, but besides an array of architecturally stunning colleges and buildings, this city is renowned for epic shopping opportunities (#RIPwallet), stunning green spaces and surprising little spots like Holywell Street, packed with pretty, cotton candy houses.

Don’t miss famous sights like the Radcliffe Camera (FYI, NOT named after Daniel Radcliffe, as a fellow tourist assumed) and of course, take some time to lurk the grounds of famous Oxford colleges like Christ Church, which boasts a Great Hall ripped straight from the pages of Harry Potter. On that note, you can click here for a full list of Harry Potter filming locations around the UK if you’re interested 😉

7. Brighton

Busy, buzzing and vibrant, Brighton is a seaside city packed with fun surprises. A visit to the pier is a touristy must, all the better if you combine it with shameless fair eats and some throwback arcade time.

As for activities, when the temperamental weather allows, you can join the hordes of beachgoers in sunbathing bliss. Otherwise, spend your day hopping around quirky boutiques or the “wow worthy” Royal Pavilion, whose Indian-style architecture is an awesome, photogenic surprise.

Places Still on my England Bucket List

Of course, there’s always more to see and my list is growing longer every second. If the English eye candy above wasn’t sufficient, here are a few of the most beautiful places in England that I still have yet to visit.

I’ve been told repeatedly that this little city is a must see in England, not just for its epic Medieval charm but also its picturesque tangle of narrow streets, packed brick by brick with heritage and history. There’s plenty of things to do in York for a first timer  – it’s where you’ll find the largest medieval cathedral in Northern Europe (the York Minster), alongside a slew of interesting museums and of course, the picture perfect street known as “The Shambles”, one of the country’s most photographed.

9. Cambridge

Having fallen in love with Oxford, it’s only fair that I set my sights on its not-so-secret rival – Cambridge. Besides gorgeous churches and chapels, lush green spaces and impressive university grounds to lurk through, Cambridge is also home to a variety of cool museums and food.

Of course, while here, I would try my hand at punting… or more realistically, I’d sit elegantly in a boat as someone handsome did the work 😉

10. The Lake District

As a raging fangirl of dramatic landscapes and swoonworthy nature, it’s no wonder that the Lake District is near the top of my England bucket list.

Often described as an epic playground for the adventurous, I would love to spend my days here hiking, kayaking and channeling my inner zen. Not a bad place to do it, wouldn’t you say?

11. Norfolk

Norfolk, found on England’s east coast, is one of those counties that seems to have a bit of everything. From picturesque coastlines and nature reserves to countryside cuteness and bustling city charm, it really is the diversity of this vibrant county that accounts for its magnetic appeal. So whether you’re keen to spy on wildlife, explore historic sites, or enjoy miles of unspoilt beaches, Norfolk is one place that has you covered.

Also, it looks like this… can you blame me for drooling?

12. Manchester

Despite its crucial role in the industrial revolution, Manchester has come far in pivoting its image from industrial and bleak to effortlessly cool and youthful. This vibrant city is now a go-to destination for fun, food and drinks, and a hotspot for cultural events and concerts. Plus, with the oldest public library in the UK, and an entire mile devoted to curry – you best believe this city is filled with cool surprises too.

13. Nottingham

Nottingham is probably best known for everyone’s favourite outlaw, Robin Hood, but there’s far more to this piece of England than green tights and heroic thievery. Besides Nottingham Castle and Sherwood Forest (key hotspots for fans of Robin Hood), Nottingham has plenty of cool attractions to offer, including the National Video Game Arcade, which sounds like the greatest museum of all time.

PS, Batman fans: It’s also here that you’ll find Wollaton Hall, AKA Wayne Manor in the Dark Knight Rises. Na na na na na na na na aweeeesome.

14. The Peak District

Last but not least, with endless natural beauty, droves of cute villages and surprising attractions like the UK’s largest amusement park… it’s honestly perplexing  that I haven’t yet made my way to the Peak District.

This national park is one of UK’s first, and is often considered to be one of the most beautiful places in England. And in a spot where you can go abseiling, museum hopping and Mr. Darcy hunting all in one day (FYI, Chatsworth House was the location for Darcy’s home in the 2005 Pride and Prejudice film!!)… it’s really no wonder why this area is among the most visited destinations in England.

So, tell me: where are some of your favourite spots in England? The more underrated and undiscovered the better. Let me know in the comments!

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10 most beautiful places you’ll be surprised are in the UK, from waterfalls to secluded beaches

There are some exceptionally scenic destinations right on the doorstep in the uk – if you know where to look. here’s a dive into some of the most incredible, article bookmarked.

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When the weather disappoints or the workload is heavy, we often find ourselves wanderlusting for far-flung places across the globe.

However, you don't have to venture outside of the UK to enjoy azure waters, golden sand and palm trees. In fact, for those who only look to airports, cross-Channel trains and ferries to get their holiday fill, the sheer beauty that can be found across Britain is somewhat surprising. But it's certainly a pleasant surprise, as this guide will show you.

From Bali -esque flowing waterfalls to a slice of Sydney in Devon , and from an almost jungle setting to the the most Italian part of Wales, here are some of the best places in the UK to enjoy exotic scenery.

Three Cliffs Bay, Gower Peninsula

A half-hour drive from Swansea, in south Wales , Three Cliffs Bay is a spectacular shoreline of sand dunes, salt marshes and the bay’s signature three limestone cliffs.

A photogenic part of the Gower Coast Path, it’s an ideal spot for picnics, and is popular for caravaning, glamping and cottage retreats.

Tinside Lido, Plymouth

Part of an Art Deco hotel that first opened in 1935, Tinside Lido closed in 1992 but returned after a successful local campaign and attained Grade II-listed status in 1998.

Its poolside views are not dissimilar to Sydney's Bondi Beach, while the salt water swimming pool is a great place to splash and sunbathe in the summer months.

Read more on UK travel :

• Where to stay, eat, drink and shop in London
• The best secret UK beaches to visit for peace and quiet
• The best dog-friendly hotels in the UK for 2023

Portmeirion, Gwynedd

Designed and built in the style of an Italian village by Sir Clough William-Ellis between 1925 and 1975, Portmeirion is one of the most unique villages in Wales.

While it may be located in North Wales, rather than the Mediterranean, Portmeirion still attracts visitors in their droves due to its scenic beauty, boutique hotels and excellent restaurants.

High Force, Durham

Verdant scenery and fast-flowing waterfalls give High Force the air of a Costa Rican jungle, but it can be found in County Durham. One of England ’s most spectacular waterfalls, it has a 21m drop into the beautiful plunge pool below.

A variety of wildlife and fauna can be seen at High Force throughout the seasons from wildflowers, ferns and towering trees to roe deer and rabbits.

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales

Near to the village of Stackpole in Pembrokeshire , Barafundle Bay is nestled between cliffs and is reminiscent of a secluded bay on a Greek island. Once owned by the Cawdor family of Stackpole Court, the beach is now open to the public and has previously made the list of the top beaches in the world, while the Good Holiday Guide also named it the best beach in Britain.

With sand dunes and pine trees, the beach is accessible by a half-mile walk from the nearest car park and offers a secluded, scenic retreat.

West Bay, Dorset, England

With towering orange cliffs and beautiful clear waters, West Bay in Dorset is reminiscent of the Algarve.

With its seaside location, it's ideal for family holidays and coastal walks, while the nearby market town of Bridport has long had a stellar reputation for culture and food.

Kynance Cove, Cornwall, England

Cited as one of the most photographed and painted locations in Cornwall , with beautiful white sand and blue sea, Kynance Cove wouldn't look out of place on a Sardinian postcard.

A landscape painter's dream, the contrast between the cove’s white sand beach and the dark red and green serpentine rock is breathtaking.

At low tide there are plenty of sea caves and islands to explore, and its rock-towers were even featured in BBC One's Poldark.

Tenby, Pembrokeshire

On the right day, Tenby can feel like you’ve transported to Bali , with its palm trees, golden sands, blue seas and colourful buildings.

A seaside tourist town for over 200 years, Tenby is steeped in history and surrounded by a medieval wall. It's also home to three beaches; North, South and Castle. North is popular for watersports, Castle its spectacular views and South beach for its almost two-mile stretch of golden sand.

Sgwd Yr Eira, Brecon Beacons

Sgwd Yr Eira waterfall may look like a selfie spot in Thailand , but is actually found in the Melte Valley in Wales's Brecon Beacons.

Translated literally as “fall of snow”, visitors can walk behind the curtain of water on a path forged by sheep farmers, which makes for the perfect photo opportunity.

Langamull Beach, Isle of Mull, Scotland

Described as one of Mull’s best kept secrets, Langamull Beach is often heralded as the Mull Caribbean thanks to its white sand.

The 20-minute walk to the beach is secluded, with spectacular views justifying the journey. On a clear day, visitors may be able to see other small islands and Skye.

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10 Great Reasons to Visit the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a great place to visit. In fact, England, Scotland, Wales and the Offshore Islands all offer great vacation and holiday destinations with something for everyone—singles, couples, and families .

Whether you plan to cross an ocean, take a cross-country train trip or simply drive down the motorway for your next trip holiday, here are some good reasons to visit England and the rest of the UK.

Great Views and Terrific Scenery

The forces of nature—of wind, seas, and ice—have combined to give this relatively small, island kingdom an amazing variety of landscapes—all within reasonably short distances of each other. No one in the UK is ever more than two hours from the sea. There are mountains and ranges of majestic hills, rolling farmlands, wild heaths and moors, exquisite lakes and lochs and gentle, lovely valleys and streams. Start with some of these:

• The Lake District
• The Most Beautiful Beaches of England and Wales
• The Jurassic Coast
• A Quick Guide to Orkney
• Glencoe—Scotlands Most Romantic Glen
• Mount Snowdon and Snowdonia National Park

Urban Adventures in Great Cities and Towns

Everybody knows that London is one of the world's great cities, but it's just the tip of the iceberg. The UK's cities and towns have a lot to offer visitors—from the hip, indie scene of Manchester to the amazing Balti food of Birmingham, from the dreaming spires of Oxford and medieval passageways of York to the lively art scenes of Glasgow. Edinburgh Castle looks down on the vibrant capital of Scotland and Liverpool rides a tide of history beside the Mersey. Check out these cities and towns:

• Edinburgh Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• Birmingham  
• Manchester Travel Guide
• An Oxford Walk
• Finding Medieval York
• Top UK 20 Cities to Visit

The Multi-Layered Great British History

From the prehistoric Britons, Gaels, Celts, and Picts through Vikings, Romans, and Normans, wave after wave of conquerors and migrants have shaped the United Kingdom—and most have left fascinating traces for visitors to explore. Consider these for starters:

• Stonehenge as You've Never Seen it Before
• Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site
• The Castles of William the Conqueror
• Roman Ruins in Britain
• Top UK Stone Circles and Ancient Sites

The Great British Pub

The best British pubs are more than places to eat and drink; they are landmarks of continuity that have existed in the same spot for hundreds of years. Their names tell stories, often linked to local history, outlaws, wars, and customs. Their architecture—whether half-timbered, thatch-roofed or built of brick—adds to the character of their villages. But not all pubs are equal and some are, frankly, dreadful if you aren't a local.

Find out how to pick a pub that suits you , then check out a few that we've liked:

• The Turf Tavern
• Ten Recommended Pubs for Christmas Lunch
• An Easy Walk to the Five Horseshoes

Great World Class Festivals and Events

Some of the world's greatest set piece events draw visitors to the UK year after year. In England, just about everything stops for a fortnight for Wimbledon , tennis's biggest grand slam tournament. Up in Scotland, everything seems on the go, 24/7, for the whole month of August, as thousands reel from one event to another during the Edinburgh Festivals, the world's biggest performing arts party. And there are more:

• Wimbledon Fortnight
• The Edinburgh Festivals
• Royal Ascot
• The Glastonbury Festival
• The Chelsea Flower Show
• The Henley Regatta
• The Grand National

Great Traditions and Eccentricities

The British are masters of the weird and wacky. From cheese rolling in Gloucestershire and fireball whirling in Scotland to Morris Men dancing and banging sticks, or hobby horses terrorizing villages on May Day, there are wonderfully eccentric traditions all over the British Isles. Most have origins lost in antiquity. No one cares how they got going—the point is to have a good time:

• The Olney Pancake Race
• The Fire Festivals of Scotland

Great Storybook Architecture

Thatched cottages, fairytale castles , soaring cathedrals , stately mansions—the UK has them all. The half-timbered streets of Chester look like something out of Disney—but they are real and they are really old. So much of what gives the UK its unique appeal for visitors is the look of its heritage buildings—the stuff of dream and story:

• The Romantic Castle Hotels of England, Scotland, and Wales
• Anne Hathaway's Cottage
• Windsor Castle
• York Minster
• Longleat House
• Waddesdon Manor
• Top 10 Stately Homes in England

The Rise of the Great British Chefs

In the space of a few decades, Britain has shaken off its dire food reputation and become a center of fine dining. London actually rivals Paris and outclasses New York for Michelin stars. And the rest of the UK is not far behind. Television "cheffing" has turned the best chefs around the country into mega-celebrities. They've created a demand for superb dining and inspired even more talented chefs to open cafes, bistros, and restaurants around the country.​

These are just a few:

• Tom Kerridge's Hand and Flowers in Marlow
• The Roux Family at the Waterside Inn
• 8 Celeb Chefs Worth Leaving London For
• The Sportsman in Seasalter near Whitstable
• The Feathered Nest in the Cotswolds

The World's Greatest Gardens and Gardeners

From as early as the 17th century, the gentlemen—and lady—horticulturalists of the British Empire explored exotic locales to bring back unusual plant specimens. A traditional interest in plants, the UK's relatively mild climate, an early taste for landscapes as works of art and the fortuitous genius of ​18th-century landscape gardener Lancelot "Capability" Brown have produced an abundant bouquet of beautiful and fascinating gardens all over Britain. 

• The Best Gardens to Visit in England
• RHS Wisley Garden
• Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden
• The Glorious Gardens of Argyll and Bute
• Bodnant Garden
• Powys Castle and Garden
• Blenheim Park and Gardens

The Great British Royals

The power of the Royal Family is mostly symbolic these days but it is certainly impossible to forget that the United Kingdom is a monarchy—it's part of the name for heaven's sake. Love them or loathe them—and in Britain, you get both opinions, sometimes uttered in the same sentence—they are woven into the fabric of life. Their comings and goings, their homes and the events they traditionally attend are a fine spectacle for visitors and natives alike. When you visit the UK, Royal watching is a must.

• Plan a Visit to Balmoral
• Princess Diana's Childhood Home
• Buckingham Palace
• Windsor Great Park

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Plan Your UK Trip

10 Little Known Roman Ruins in England, Scotland and Wales

Top 20 Most Popular UK Cities for International Visitors

The Top 20 Things to Do in the UK

The 16 Most Beautiful Natural Features in the UK

The 10 Most Beautiful Theaters in the UK

Top UK Destinations for Stone Circles and Ancient Sites

The Best Time to Visit the United Kingdom

Your Trip to the United Kingdom: The Complete Guide

5 Things to Never Do in the United Kingdom

12 "Must-See" Places in England, Scotland and Wales

Best Country Houses in the United Kingdom for Christmas

8 Top Things to Do in Aberdeen, Scotland

Do Pre-Paid Touring Passes Give You More Bang for Your Buck?

Fairy Tale Cottages Under Thatch

Every UNESCO World Heritage Site in the UK

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Secret Britain: 30 little-known British places you must visit

Explore Britain with a fresh set of eyes, aided by the experts from Bradt Travel Guides, who’ve personally curated these 30 lesser-known delights…

1. Ross Back Sands, Northumberland

Ross Back Sands Beach, looking towards Bamburgh Castle (Shutterstock)

This gloriously deserted sandy spit extends for 5km from Budle Bay to Lindisfarne. Access is via a 1.5km-long footpath through Ross Farm and across the dunes, which puts off the few travellers who venture here.

Your reward, however, is an unbeatable panorama: all sky, sea and white sands with Lindisfarne Castle at one end and, at the other, Bamburgh Castle and the Farne Islands. A pair of binoculars will come in handy, not only to check out the seals lazing on Lindisfarne’s bay (best viewed from Guile Point) but also to scan the sea for divers, grebes and scoters in winter, and terns in summer.

– Gemma Hall, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: Northumberland

2. walberswick, suffolk.

Walberswick (Shutterstock)

Walberswick was formerly a small trading port before its harbour silted up. Long adopted as a bohemian retreat by artists like Philip Wilson Steer and Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the former fishing village has long-since morphed into a enclave for media-types.

These days it is popular with walkers and birdwatchers, and young families who come here to relax and go crabbing in the creek. The most atmospheric way to reach Walberswick, though, is by way of the rowing-boat ferry across the River Blyth from Southwold, an enterprise that’s been in the same family for five generations.

– Laurence Mitchell, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: Norfolk & Suffolk

3. carn euny, cornwall.

Carn Euny, Cornwall (Shutterstock)

Although this ancient hut settlement is managed by English Heritage, the sense of private discovery is overwhelming. To get here, it’s an easy walk from Chapel Carn Brea car park north-east over Tredinney Common past a very natural, gurgling holy well that marks the site of St Euny’s Chapel.

The low stone walls of the roundhouses are clearly visible, beneath a soft blanket of turf and wildflowers and the entrance to a mysterious fogou (underground structure) is also apparent. This remote and beautiful acre lies on a south-facing slope; it’s a place to linger, maybe with a picnic and a jug of local cider.

– Kirsty Fergusson, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly

4. hunstanton, norfolk.

The red and ginger cliffs of Hunstanton, Norfolk (Shutterstock)

Standing a short walk along the beach from the Victorian resort of Hunstanton (‘Sunny Hunny’) are the magnificent banded cliffs of Old Hunstanton. The cliffs, which are comprised of layers of rusty ginger sandstone (‘carrstone’), red limestone (‘red chalk’) topped with chalk, are framed by a foreground of chalky sand and green, seaweed-covered rocks.

Unusually – actually, uniquely – for East Anglia, they face west. With the setting sun lighting up the cliffs as it lowers across The Wash, and a painterly combination of red, white, green and blue, this is the sort of place that holds great appeal for romantics and landscape photographers alike.

5. Sunbiggin Tarn, Cumbria

Sunbiggin Tarn, Cumbria (Shutterstock)

Lakes of any size are very thin on the ground in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Sunbiggin Tarn’s rarity makes it popular with wildlife and visiting humans alike.

Interesting birds can be seen here all year around but this place’s greatest claim to fame is probably its starling murmurations. One of the country’s largest and most spectacular, it involves tens of thousands of birds and occurs here at dusk on most autumn and winter evenings.

– Mike Bagshaw, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: Yorkshire Dales

6. yoesden nature reserve, high wycombe.

Spot a rare chalkhill blue butterfly at Yoesden Nature Reserve (Shutterstock)

Six miles north of High Wycombe, Yoesden has changed little since medieval times. Descending from ‘beech hanger’ woods, its sun-soaked chalk grassland provides a haven for less common flora and fauna.

In late June, it’s a pink and purple picture with chalk fragrant, pyramidal and common spotted orchids. By August, blue is the colour with devil’s bit scabious, nettle-leaved bellflower and lots of Chiltern gentian attracting butterflies – keep an eye out for the azure Adonis blues and the powdery chalk hill blues as well as the common blue and small blue varieties. Open daily, and free to visit.

– Neil Matthews, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: Chilterns & The Thames Valley

7. the grey mare’s tail nature reserve, dumfries & galloway.

Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve, Dumfries & Galloway (Shutterstock)

The wild and rugged landscape of this National Trust for Scotland reserve in Dumfries & Galloway is a taste of the highlands in the lowlands. The 60m Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall is the UK’s fifth highest; a walk up alongside it will eventually bring you to isolated Loch Skeen and Britain’s rarest native freshwater fish, the vendace.

Continue climbing to the top of White Coomb (821m), Dumfriesshire’s highest peak for inspirational views to the Scottish Borders and even beyond if the weather goes in your favour. Look out for peregrine falcons, osprey and, if you’re lucky, golden eagle, which have been reintroduced in recent years.

– Donald Grieg, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: Dumfries & Galloway

8. solar heritage boat tours, west sussex.

On the waters in West Sussex (Shutterstock)

The catamaran was powered by nothing else but the sun, gliding across through the marshy waterscape of Chichester Harbour in West Sussex’s south-west corner.

“She’s quiet, doesn’t scare wildlife, uses no oil or lubricants and doesn’t cause wake,” explained our guide, as binoculars were passed around to my fellow passengers to spot the abundant birdlife and wait for a glimpse of its couple of dozen resident seals.

The craft is one of only three, built to ferry people to an exhibition of alternative energy sources held in Switzerland and now-recycled here to spectacular effect. Surely the ultimate form of Slow Travel? Costs £10 per adult.

– Tim Locke, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: Sussex

9. birkenhead park, wirral.

Birkenhead, the UK’s Central Park? (Shutterstock)

The port of Birkenhead on Wirral was a town of firsts in the 19th century, including being home to the world’s first publicly funded park.

But Birkenhead Park, a naturalistic 100 acres of meadows, fields, gardens, woodland, lakes and structures, has another boast. It inspired the American landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in his design of New York’s Central Park.

Birkenhead Park isn’t the only Victorian joy of this peninsula. Wirral’s other secrets include the industrial garden village of Port Sunlight, Ness Botanic Gardens (which introduced the rhododendron to Britain’s borders) and pretty Parkgate village, with its now landlocked seafront promenade.

– Kate Simon, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: Cheshire

10. the strawberry line, somerset.

The awe-inspiring village of Cheddar in Somerset (Shutterstock)

Wending its way through a scenic stretch of Somerset countryside, the Strawberry Line takes its name from the railway that, until 1963, transported produce grown on the slopes of the nearby Mendips.

Walking or cycling the old, mostly traffic-free, trackbed – which extends for 16km between Yatton and Cheddar – you’ll pass rural villages, apple-rich orchards (this is cider country after all), wooded valleys and wetlands teeming with wildlife, including otters, owls, bats and butterflies.

There are plenty of pitstops along the way too, not least the brilliant, not-for-profit Strawberry Line Café, which now occupies the old Victorian-era waiting room at Yatton station; handily, they also offer bike hire.

– Norm Longley, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: Somerset

11. amberley museum, west sussex.

Displays at West Sussex’s Amberley Museum (Shutterstock)

Close to the South Downs Way and right next to Amberley rail station, this serendipitous museum is, variously, a huge industrial relic; a nature reserve within a chalk pit patrolled by peregrine falcons; a community of craftspeople; and a collection of all sorts representing industry in the south-east over the centuries.

Each visit will sidetrack you with something new: nosing round the printworks and the transplanted Southdown Bus Garage, or chatting to the woodturner. Finish the day with an amble around Amberley, with its astonishing show of thatched roofs, and a medieval castle (now a hotel) looking out onto the water meadows known as Amberley Wildbrooks. Open Wednesday to Sunday, £13.60 per ticket.

12. Hartland Abbey, Devon

Hartland Abbey, Devon (Shutterstock)

Far superior to many other great houses, which sometimes struggle to justify their entrance fee, Hartland Abbey (open Sunday to Thursday until 4 October) is still owned by the family that inherited it in the 16th century.

It has a lived-in feeling (you are likely to find a family member working in the walled garden) and the quality of the contents is one of the advantages of a house that has never been sold, but passed down through the centuries by inheritance. Scattered around the house are laminated newspaper cuttings that add snippets of intrigue…

– Hilary Bradt, founder of Bradt Travel Guides and author of Slow Travel: Exmoor, North Devon and South Devon

13. cotswold line cycle route.

Glorious views from Dover’s Hill (Shutterstock)

For quiet, tiny lanes that are perfect for gentle moseying on a bicycle, the Cotswolds is in abundance. And 120km of these lanes make up the Cotswold Line Cycle Route (NCN Route 442), which follows the Cotswold Line railway between Oxford and Worcester, so you can cycle as far as you like, then catch the train back (or vice versa).

There’s plenty to view along the route, as it winds its way through peaceful stone villages with rose-hugging frontages and reputable gastro-watering holes (many currently offering a takeaway service). Take Kingham or Charlbury, for example, in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, or the market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, all with a train station to boot.

Further north, head towards Chipping Campden, with tearooms-aplenty and the glory of Dover’s Hill for a picnic with views, to catch the return train in nearby Honeybourne.

– Caroline Mills, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: The Cotswolds

14. lundy island, devon.

Lundy Island, Devon (Shutterstock)

Marooned in the middle of the Bristol Channel and often cut off for days through bad weather, this island feels like a lump of the Hebrides mysteriously dumped in the south-west. It is a wild, beautiful and almost treeless place, with a tiny resident population, no cars, a lot of sheep, cattle and ponies, and kilometres of footpaths.

The chief attraction is the cliffside breeding puffins (best see April to July), but the chance to get away from it all ensures that few visitors only come here once. All the accommodation is self-catering in historic properties, including a castle and a lighthouse, now owned by the Landmark Trust.

15. Hawkstone Park Follies, Shropshire

A glimpse of the mysterious Hawkstone Park Follies (Shutterstock)

If you’ve never before visited Hawkstone Park Follies , we envy you your first glimpses of this mysterious place. The restored 200-year-old pleasure garden is an exhilarating mix of sandstone cliffs and crags, dotted with dozens of follies originally created by the Hill family of Hawkstone.

Ascend the 150 steps of the 30m-high monument, raised in 1795, and you’ll have views over 12 or 13 counties. Its dramatic scenery made Hawkstone Park a location for the BBC’s 1988 adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia , and it remains highly recommended for children (and grown ups) who enjoy exploring – although wear sturdy shoes. Open only on weekends, £19 (for one household, up to three in a car).

– Marie Kreft, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: Shropshire

16. natural history museum, tring, hertfordshire.

Natural History Museum, Tring, Hertfordshire (Shutterstock)

This outpost of London’s Natural History Museum has been a visitors’ delight for over a century. Six floors showcase 4,000 specimens on public display in taxonomic order, classified into related groups: stuffed birds and animals, menacing sharks hanging from the ceiling, insects in pull-out cases and plenty more.

You can wonder at the skeletons of long-dead creatures, such as the giant ground sloth from the Pleistocene era, or examine a set of fully dressed fleas (clothes made in Mexico in 1905). It’s free to visit, and open daily.

17. South West Coastal 300, Dumfries & Galloway (mostly)

A bay on the Mull of Galloway (Shutterstock)

Scotland’s ‘forgotten south-west corner’ has its own version of the hugely successful North Coast 500 road trip. The South West Coastal 300 includes the hill country of the Southern Uplands and craggy coast of the Solway Firth.

A combination of Burns, the national bard, and a dram or two in various distilleries along the way makes for a heady mix. Visit Scotland’s most southerly point, the Mull of Galloway, and pan for gold in its highest village, Wanlockhead, also home to the country’s highest micro-brewery, with the cracking strapline of ‘Beer with Altitude!’

18. Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway, Oxfordshire

Teams of devoted volunteers have restored this attractive heritage railway line , which runs on a combination of diesel and steam some of the locomotives date back to the 1930s.

Sit back and enjoy a pot of tea as your 50-minute round journey passes Whiteleaf Cross, a white cross of mysterious origins etched into the hillside. Special events include a ‘titfer day’ (half price for anyone wearing a hat) and Sherlock Holmes murder mystery evenings with supper on board. Open Sundays and bank holidays.

19. Skipton Castle, North Yorkshire

Skipton Castle in Yorkshire (Shutterstock)

Many visitors to Skipton are not even aware there’s a 900-year-old castle here as it’s so well hidden, but there is and it’s a cracker. What makes it so special is its completeness; it is a fully roofed and remarkably well-preserved medieval building, a fact for which we have one woman to thank – Lady Anne Clifford.

After the castle’s destruction by Cromwell’s bully boys during the English Civil War, she had it completely rebuilt, and the yew tree she planted in 1659 to commemorate the event still graces the central courtyard. Open daily, £8.70 per ticket.

– Mike Bagshaw, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: North York Moors & Yorkshire Wolds

20. clare, suffolk.

The church in Clare, Suffolk (Shutterstock)

A fine medieval wool town in the Stour Valley, Clare is often overlooked.

Daniel Defoe, writing in the early 18th century, described it as ‘a poor town and dirty’ – these days it is anything but. Particularly striking is the 15th-century Ancient House, which has luxuriant white pargeting (decorative plastering) like the sugar icing on a fancy cake.

Directly opposite is St Peter and St Paul’s Church, a handsome perpendicular building in which Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon have bespoke pews with their crests. The sundial outside, inscribed ‘Go about your business’, seems to tell the time with uncanny accuracy.

21. Blackgang Beach, Isle of Wight

The remote Blackgang Beach (Shutterstock)

Quite simply, Blackgang Beach is a strong contender for the most beautiful – and rarely visited – of all the island’s beaches.

The reason for its low profile is clear enough: it is inaccessible to all but the most determined and reached by a steep, sometimes awkward (but never dangerous) path – which may also explain why it’s also the island’s unofficial nudist beach.

The walk from car park to beach takes around 15 minutes but can feel much longer. The reward is a glorious beach of ochre coloured, fine-gained pebbles (your feet sink ever so slightly as you cross the beach) that lies under a magnificent sandstone escarpment that looks like a vast slab of honeycomb.

– Mark Rowe, author of Bradt’s The Outer Hebrides and Orkney

22. st martin’s vineyard, isles of scilly.

Tresco Gardens on the Isles of Scilly (Shutterstock)

Established in 1996 by Val and Graham Thomas, this little-known vineyard is one of the island of St Martin’s best-kept secrets. Their wines have become a local triumph and, until only very recently, were only available on the Isles of Scilly themselves, either direct from their cellar or served in one of the many fantastic local pubs and restaurants.

The first vines trialled on this hectare of south-facing slopes were white varieties – Reichensteiner and Madeleine Angevine – but today five varieties are produced: three white, one rose and one red. Enjoy a tour and tasting session before stocking up on bottles to take home with you. Go for a self-guided tour, costing just £7.

23. Borth, Ceredigion

Beaches and birdwatching await in Borth (Shutterstock)

You get two wildlife spectacles for the price of one along this stretch of Welsh coastline in August.

On the beach at Borth, thousands upon thousands of Manx shearwaters – Britain’s answer to the albatross – gather here to feast upon shoals of whitebait, clupeid and sandeel. Some Manxies come stupidly close, occasionally even over the beach, so there are plenty of opportunities for photoshoots.

Just down the road at Cors Dyfi Reserve, admire another piscivore: Wales’ most famous ospreys. Assuming they have bred successfully, the pair’s youngsters should have fledged and be fattening up for their first southwards migration. Wish them – and the similarly migratory shearwaters – luck.

– James Lowen, author of Bradt’s 52 Wildlife Weekends

24. flamborough head, yorkshire.

Flamborough Head’s white cliffs (Shutterstock)

If asked to name the site of England’s oldest standing lighthouse, most northerly coastal chalk cliffs and largest seabird colony, very few people would plump for East Yorkshire, but Flamborough Head holds all three titles.

This promontory, sticking boldly out into the North Sea, has a rich Viking history which is easy to imagine whilst on an exciting boat trip through the tidal races below the cliffs. Being on the water allows a grandstand view of fishing gannets and puffins but those that would prefer to stay on dry land can occasionally spot whales from the clifftop viewpoints.

25. Mynydd Carningli, Pembrokeshire

Towering some 340m above the seaside town of Newport, this now-extinct volcano has a scrambly summit that just begs to be climbed. At the top you’ll find Iron and Bronze age remains, but that’s not the only selling point – for ‘Mynydd Carningli’ translates as ‘mountain of angels’.

Legend has it that Celtic saint St Brynach climbed to the top to commune with the angels. Although you don’t have to believe in seraphims to worship this saintly summit, go to the top and look towards the beautifully rugged Pembrokeshire coast to witness views that are truly angelic.

– Phoebe Smith, author of Bradt’s Britain’s Best Small Hills

26. chee dale, derbyshire.

Stepping stones at Chee Dale in Derbyshire (Shutterstock)

This must be a contender for loveliest riverside walk in the Peak District. And although it is every bit as dramatic as Dovedale, it receives a fraction of its visitors. Following the River Wye from Miller’s Dale car park, you wind your way west and south to Blackwell Mill (returning along the Monsal Trail).

The walk is one of pure delight: limestone cliffs drop straight to the water, great viaducts tower high overhead and boardwalks wind their way through wetlands of wildflowers, where dippers perch on branches and stones, bobbing in the water as they search for food.

– Helen Moat, author of Bradt’s Slow Travel: Peak District

27. orkney’s stone age sites, rousay island.

Stone Age sites on Rousay Island (Shutterstock)

While the crowds flock to Skara Brae, the island of Rousay lies just to the north, waiting for the world to notice that it boasts more than 100 archaeological sites, including 15 chambered tombs, as concentrated a compendium of ancient monuments as anywhere in northern Europe.

Centre stage is the Westness coastline, considered the most important archaeological mile in Scotland, and its Midhowe chambered cairn, a huge communal burial chamber dating back thousands of years, and known as the Great Ship of Death. Close by, above wave-pounded ledges, is Midhowe Broch, one of Scotland’s best-preserved examples of these enigmatic Iron Age structures.

If you’re not tombed out, make for the Knowe of Yarso Cairn. The highest of Orkney’s tombs, the site offers views across Eynhallow Sound and the Orkney Mainland.

28. Cotswold Canals

Stroudwater Navigation in the Cotswolds (Shutterstock)

Canals are not greatly associated with the Cotswolds, but there are actually two, and they’re well worth exploring: the Thames and Severn Canal and the Stroudwater Navigation. The 56km pair, which, merging in Stroud, became known as the Cotswold Canals, were built in the 18th century to help transport goods up and down the Thames and Severn, before their closure in the 1920s.

The Cotswold Canals Trust restoration project to reopen the derelict canals has seen volunteers clearing towpaths, rebuilding walls and restoring locks. Visitors can help with the work – or by taking one the four gentle boat trips along the canal, with all funds going towards the canals’ restoration.

29. Culbone Church, Somerset

Culborne Church, Somerset (Shutterstock)

To reach the smallest parish church in England, you first have to walk for over 2.5km. through the woods of west Somerset Quite suddenly there’s Culbone Church below you, squatting in a clearing with its spire, set slightly askew, reaching hopefully towards the treetops.

It seats 33 worshippers at a pinch (the average congregation is about seven) and there’s no room for anything except the pews, a tiny wax-spattered harmonium squeezed into a corner, and that Norman font, so roughly carved that the marks of the stonemason’s chisel are still visible.

– Hilary Bradt, founder of Bradt Travel Guides

30. the bays, harris, outer hebrides.

Breathtaking Bays on the Isle of Harris (Shutterstock)

The Bays is the name given to the rugged, elemental east coast of Harris. Visit on a clear evening as dusk approaches and the ice-moulded rocks seem to change colour with every heartbeat while the small water pools catch fleeting slivers of light, appearing as giant glow-worms among the heather.

Several walks are signposted off The Bays coastal road that allow you to explore this violent beauty. You can park the car or hop off the bus, walk a circular route, following waymarkers over open land for up to 6km. A picturesque stretch of 2.5km links the township of Plocrapol with Scadabhagh.

• Secret Britain: Your tips
• The Isles of Scilly: An underrated travel gem
• Wanderlust’s guide to the Inner Hebrides
• Explore the best of Pembrokeshire’s coast

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20 magical places to visit in England

Posted: January 9, 2024 | Last updated: January 9, 2024

Durdle Door, Dorset

Located on the Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door is a unique rock formation in the county of Dorset. Created by erosion and the power of the waves, this idyllic location is nothing like what typically comes to mind when we think of England, and it’s a magical place for anyone who loves nature.

Old Harry Rocks, Dorset

Also located in the county of Dorset, Old Harry Rocks is another breathtaking area you won’t want to miss. Its huge limestone rocks extend into the English Channel and are as impressive to see on land as they are from the sea in a kayak. A number of boat trips are also available to take you around the attractions of the Jurassic Coast.

Bath, Somerset

The city of Bath is aptly named, since it started out as a thermal spa more than 2,000 years ago. It’s home to many relics from centuries past as well as many modern thermal baths, including the Thermae Bath Spa. It may be small, but Bath is considered one of the prettiest cities in England, and its quaint streets and Georgian architecture will make you feel like you’re in a Jane Austen novel.

Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

Cheese lovers will probably be tempted to stop by the village of Cheddar, where cheddar cheese originated, for some gourmet tastings. If you do go there, don’t forget to visit Cheddar Gorge . At close to 140 metres deep, it’s the largest gorge in the country! It harbours several underground caves and a caving centre where Britain’s oldest human skeleton was discovered.

Lake District, Cumbria

Well known for harbouring some of the greenest scenery in England, Lake District National Park is located in the northeast of the country and covers an area of 2,362 square kilometres (912 square miles). With its lush hills and sparkling lakes, this region is guaranteed to make any nature lover’s heart dance. Bibliophiles will also be happy to learn that English author Beatrix Potter helped lead efforts to preserve this magical area.

Botany Bay, Kent

The beautiful and pristine cliffs of Botany Bay are nestled in the county of Kent, facing the North Sea. It’s the perfect place to explore the sea bed at low tide. You can also relax on its beautiful beach, swim, explore the area by kayak, and even find fossils. Located in the heart of the Broadstairs resort, it’s the northernmost of the region’s seven bays.

Leeds Castle, Kent

Considered one of the most beautiful castles in England, Leeds Castle started out as a fortress during the Norman Conquest before being turned into a royal residence. Its history is also marked by the passage of several influential women, including the queens Eleanor of Castile and Catherine of Aragon, as well as Lady Olive Baillie, an Anglo-American heiress who revitalized the residence in the 1930s.

Castle Combe, Cotswolds, Wiltshire

The Cotswolds villages look like something straight out of an Agatha Christie novel. And if you want to be instantly transported to another era, Castle Combe is one area you won’t want to miss. Its bucolic houses and picturesque pastoral streets make it the ideal place to take it easy and stop time.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

One of the oldest World Heritage Sites on the planet, Stonehenge has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 4,500 years. This circle of mythical menhirs is the stuff of legend. It attracts major crowds every year, especially during the summer solstice, when the sun rises directly in the centre of the monument.

St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall

This beautiful island connected to the town of Marazion also houses an old castle that has been the home of the St Aubyn family since the 1600s. At low tide, you can walk across its stone causeway to visit the castle and explore its military and historical memorabilia and family artifacts.

King’s College Chapel, Cambridge

Located near the River Cam, King’s College Chapel is one destination you won’t want to miss if you’re passing through the university town of Cambridge. Take in one of the country’s most beautiful historic buildings and listen to the choir sing before you visit some or all of the 30 other colleges that are part of this esteemed university.

University of Oxford, Oxfordshire

Cambridge’s main rival, Oxford University , boasts more than 38 striking colleges filled with romantic libraries on a historic campus. Considered one of the best universities in the world, it’s also the oldest English-language university, with evidence of teaching in some form dating as far back as 1096. Its incredible scenery was also frequently used as a backdrop for the Harry Potter movies.

Arundel Castle, West Sussex

Founded in the 11th century by Roger de Montgomery, Arundel Castle was almost completely rebuilt in the late 19th century. Thanks to its incredible Gothic architecture, it is considered one of the most beautiful works of the Victorian era. If you visit Arundel Castle, you’ll also get to see an impressive collection of artworks and take a stroll through its beautiful gardens, where you can catch medieval re-enactments during the summer.

Medieval quarter of Canterbury, Kent

Thanks to its well-preserved medieval quarter, the university town of Canterbury is a perfect destination for tourists. It houses the ruins of Canterbury Castle, St. Augustine’s Abbey, and a gorgeous cathedral that’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also where King Henry IV is buried and where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in the 12th century.

Royal Pavilion, Brighton, East Sussex

Although Brighton is popular for its waterfront and fun attractions, you’ll also want to visit the Royal Pavilion , a building inspired by a blend of Indian, Mughal, Chinese, and European architecture. Even though it diverges from other buildings we’re accustomed to seeing in England, you can still enjoy a cup of traditional afternoon tea in the tearoom.

Lundy Island, Devon

Off the coast of Devon, Lundy Island is where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic Ocean. Once occupied by pirates, the island is now owned by the National Trust and is rich in flora and fauna. Among other wildlife, it’s populated by many adorable puffins.

Natural History Museum, London

You can’t go to London without stopping by the Natural History Museum . In addition to being one of the world’s most popular museums, it’s also a leading science research centre. It’s a great place to learn all about the planet’s biodiversity and is brimming with mind-blowing exhibits such as the enormous blue whale skeleton that’s suspended in Hintze Hall.

Notting Hill, London

Bordering hip Portobello Road, Notting Hill is one of London’s most charming districts and is a lovely area to walk around. In addition to its distinguished colourful houses, it’s filled with cozy cafés, sophisticated shops, and inspiring bookstores (much like the one in the movie named after the area).

Westminster Abbey, London

The setting for every coronation since 1066, Westminster Abbey is also the final resting place of some of England’s most revered kings and queens as well as more than 3,000 Britons who’ve had an impact on the country, including Sir Isaac Newton, Elizabeth I, Charles Dickens, and Stephen Hawking.

Big Ben, London

Big Ben is the most famous clock in the world, and after many years of renovations, we can now admire it in all its glory. Sounding across the streets of London since 1859, the bell inside the Elizabeth Tower weighs more than 13 tons.

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The city that moved rivers to emerge as a cultural capital.

Providence is No. 2 on the list thanks to vibrant art, design and architecture and serious culinary credentials.

Having undergone a remarkable transformation over the past half-century, Providence has emerged as New England’s creative capital.

Once an industrialized port town, the “Renaissance City” has been completely reimagined, largely thanks to extensive urban revitalization efforts.

Providence is a city where history and innovation intertwine to create a dynamic destination that is celebrated for its outstanding culinary scene, legendary architecture, thriving art community and esteemed educational institutions.

Despite its impressive offerings, the Ocean State’s capital city maintains a fiercely independent, down-to-earth and quirky vibe.

Art is everywhere

More america's best towns to visit 2024.

• 1. Richmond, VA
• 2. Providence, RI
• 3. Tacoma, WA
• 4. Portland, ME
• 5. San Luis Obispo, CA
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Covering nearly 19 square miles and home to about 190,000 residents, Providence is a city characterized by its 25 distinct neighborhoods, each with its unique charm. The Providence River serves as a natural divider, separating neighborhoods such as College Hill, Fox Point and Wayland on the east side from downtown, Olneyville, West End and Federal Hill on the west side.

Visitors can take to the river with Providence Kayak’s guided trips or cross it on foot at the stunning new Michael S. Van Leesten Memorial Bridge for pedestrians.

It stretches 450 feet across the river and connects downtown to the east side with urban parks at each end, often featuring pollinator gardens, public art, food trucks, pop-up vendors and entertainment.

But the downtown riverfront wasn’t always a dazzling focal point. The Providence River Relocation Project completely changed the face of the city.

This 30-year endeavor, which began in 1988, redirected the Woonasquatucket and Moshassuck rivers. It also revamped transit infrastructure — moving roads and rails — and established a vibrant new riverfront downtown, beautifying the city and generating new commercial land without sacrificing its historic buildings.

On designated nights throughout the spring, summer and fall, more than 80 dazzling bonfires blaze along the river as the city celebrates WaterFire , a transformative public art installation that has been illuminating the city for three decades.

There’s more public art to soak in by walking, biking or driving self-guided tour routes designed by The Avenue Concept , a nonprofit that has collaborated with artists from Rhode Island and around the world to create more than 400 public art installations, including murals and sculptures throughout downtown, the South Side and the West End.

At each stop on the map, you will find a plaque that has the name of the artwork and artist as well as a QR code that provides an interactive experience.

“Public art provides wayfinding, helping people navigate and connect with a city,” says Jenn Harris, deputy director of The Avenue Concept.

Notable works include Andrew Hem’s “Misty Blue” mural inspired by the city’s robust Cambodian community, and Gaia’s “Still Here” mural on the east wall of 32 Custom House Street.

Standing over 80 feet (24 meters) tall, it depicts a contemporary Narragansett woman, Lynsea Montanari. She’s holding a portrait of her tribal elder, Princess Red Wing, a Narragansett/Pokanoket-Wampanoag elder who is surrounded by symbolic imagery of native flora. The mural represents the present and future of the land’s original inhabitants, the Narragansett and Mashpee Wampanoag.

On the west side of Providence, creativity and the arts thrive with an eclectic mix of artist studios and cultural venues. The Steel Yard , Dirt Palace , World’s Fair Gallery , The Wurks , Public Shop & Gallery and DWRI Letterpress (located in the historic Pearl St. Lofts) host an array of festivals, shows and exhibitions.

This summer, in their 15,000-square-foot Main Hall and gallery spaces, the WaterFire Arts Center presents “NetWorks Rhode Island and the Chazan Collection: A Half-Century of RI Artistic Patronage,” an exhibit opening on July 11 that celebrates a dynamic community of artists living and working in Rhode Island and their patron, Dr. Joseph A. Chazan.

Embracing the outdoors

Woven into the urban landscape, the city’s abundant green spaces make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Roger Williams Park was created in 1871 and covers more than 435 acres.

The park features manicured grounds, recreational ponds, public gardens, tennis courts, ball fields, playgrounds and public art, as well as historic buildings including the Bandstand, Museum of Natural History, Botanical Center, Temple to Music and the Casino, a social center built in the Colonial Revival-style. The Roger Williams Park Zoo is home to more than 100 species from around the world.

The city’s commitment to green spaces extends far beyond Roger Williams Park. Bike paths and walking trails weave through many neighborhoods, offering scenic and practical routes.

India Point Park, an open green space along the water, provides stunning views and is a hub for summer activities, including ferry rides to Newport. It’s also the starting point for the East Bay Bike Path , which covers 14.5 miles (23 kilometers) and passes through state and local parks and charming coastal towns before ending at Independence Park in Bristol.

In Olneyville, behind the historic Atlantic Mills, the Woonasquatucket River Greenway Bike Path connects Providence to Johnston. It features soccer fields, gardens and a pump track along the way.

For architecture buffs, College Hill is home to some of the city’s oldest and most famous architecture. Benefit Street, with its gas lamps and historic homes, and the illustrious campuses of Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) are well worth exploring.

Brown’s David Winton Bell Gallery features works by contemporary artists, while just down the street, RISD Museum presents its extensive collection of design objects and fine art alongside contemporary works. Just a block away, the Providence Athenaeum , a historic library that is open to the public, is housed in a stunning Greek Revival building.

The surrounding streets are filled with historic and notable homes, such as Governor Stephen Hopkins House located at 15 Hopkins Street, The First Baptist Church in America at 75 North Main, and Lippitt House Museum , a Victorian home turned museum, built in 1865.

Diverse dining

You can’t talk about Providence without paying respects to its rich culinary history.

“Our coastlines have world-class fish, and our farmers grow such delicious produce with more accessibility than what you would find in bigger, more saturated cities,” said Nikhil Naiker, currently the chef-in-residence at Courtland Club , when asked about what makes Providence’s culinary scene so dynamic.

ESSENTIAL PROVIDENCE

• EAT: Brunch at Nicks on Broadway or Frank & Laurie’s . Or at Gift Horse or Dolores for date night
• DRINK: Coffee at Bolt Coffee at the RISD Museum and The Nitro Bar . Cocktails at Courtland Club 
• STAY : At The Beatrice or The Graduate
• SEE : A Providence College Friars basketball game or a Trinity Repertory Company performance

His current offerings are inspired by the kind of food he grew up eating in Fiji; his parents’ curries and the tea-time snacks they would eat every day, such as pakoras with a spicy tamarind chutney.

You could live here for a decade and not even come close to covering all the incredible dining options, so pace yourself.

High-end dining landmark Al Forno was opened in 1980, and its grilled pizza is legendary. On the flip side from high-end dining, you have Olneyville New York System , a local institution that opened in 1946 and serves hot wieners (not to be confused with hot dogs). They’re known for their proprietary recipe of beef, pork and veal hot wieners seasoned with celery salt.

You can travel the world through the dining scene and learn about the city’s diverse communities. The Italian food in Federal Hill and the plentiful Portuguese bakeries around town ( Silver Star in Fox Point is a favorite) are classics representing the waves of immigrants that arrived in the city before World War I.

The Federal Hill Heritage Center offers a fascinating history of the Italian experience in Rhode Island. The seedier history of Federal Hill is well-known thanks to the infamous Patriarca crime family, also known as the Providence Mafia.

Providence is also home to delicious Indian, Bolivian, Oaxacan, Peruvian, Cape Verdean, Haitian, Uyghur, Cantonese, Syrian and Mexican cuisine.

Rhode Island Red Food Tours offer a great way to enjoy the city’s diverse dining options. They’ll take you off the beaten path to five or six eateries, where you’ll sample creative local dishes, learn about the chefs’ backgrounds and philosophies and uncover the rich history and culture of the city’s food scene.

Providence, RI: No. 2 on America's Best Towns to Visit list

In the coming months, the Providence dining scene is gaining a few new stars.

Cielito Mexican Kitchen – helmed by James Beard semifinalist Diego Alcantar, the owner of neighboring Central Falls’ popular Tuxpan Taqueria – is opening any day now. The lunch and dinner menu will feature dishes such as corundas (a type of tamale), carnitas, enchiladas and mole de olla (a rich stew), alongside a colorful cocktail program.

Also set to open soon, Track 15 will be a new food hall located within the historic Union Station. Merchants include many local favorites such as a seafood and raw bar from Dune Brothers; regional Mexican cuisine from Chef Maria Meza and her family at Dolores; burgers from There There; and two Italian concepts from Kevin O’Donnell, chef and owner of Giusto and Mother Pizzeria in Newport.

“Within the city’s restaurant industry, there’s a collective mentality of ‘we’re in this together,’” says Kat Cummings, a multi-hyphenate creative who collaborates with many local restaurants to curate their wine selections through her work with Wine Wizards.

“Rather than intense competition, there’s a sense of community and support, fostering new ideas and collaborations.”

Next town: Tacoma, Washington is No. 3

Find out why “Grit City” shines.

Christine Chitnis  is a photographer, journalist and author of the newly released “East Coasting: The Ultimate Roadtripper’s Guide to New England.”

Democrats are talking about replacing Joe Biden. That wouldn't be so easy.

President Joe Biden's performance in the first debate Thursday has sparked a new round of criticism from Democrats , as well as public and private musing about whether he should remain at the top of the ticket.

In the modern era, a national party has never tried to adversarially replace its nominee, in part, because knows it would most likely fail. The issue came before both parties in 2016, but neither took action.

Party rules make it almost impossible to replace nominees without their consent, let alone smoothly replace them with someone else. And doing so would amount to party insiders’ overturning the results of primaries when Democratic voters overwhelmingly to nominate Biden. He won almost 99% of all delegates.

And at the moment, there’s no known, serious effort to push him off the top of the ticket.

Still, the Democratic National Committee's charter does make some provisions in case the party’s nominee is incapacitated or opts to step aside, and an anti-Biden coup at the convention is theoretically possible, if highly unlikely. So how would it work?

What happens if Biden drops out before the convention?

The only plausible scenario for Democrats to get a new nominee would be for Biden to decide to withdraw, which he has sworn off repeatedly during other bumpy stretches of his campaign.  

He could do so while serving out the rest of his term in the White House, as Lyndon Johnson did in 1968. 

If Biden were to drop out before he is scheduled to be formally nominated in August, it would create a free-for-all among Democrats, because there’s no mechanism for him or anyone else to anoint a chosen successor.

It takes a majority of the roughly 4,000 pledged delegates to win the party’s nomination. Biden’s won 3,900 of them. Under recent reforms, the party’s more than 700 superdelegates — Democratic lawmakers and dignitaries — are allowed to vote only if no one wins a majority of pledged delegates on the first ballot, so their votes could be crucial in a contested convention. 

Because Biden's opponents all won effectively no delegates throughout the Democratic nominating process, there'd be a virtual clean slate heading into the convention, and the decision would most likely come down to the convention delegates who were initially pledged to Biden.

Biden would have some influence over his pledged delegates, but ultimately, they can vote as they please, so candidates would most likely campaign aggressively to win over each individual delegate.

However, there's a potentially important wrinkle: Democrats plan to formally nominate Biden virtually ahead of the late-August convention to sidestep any potential concerns about ballo t access in Ohio, where a technical quirk has complicated things

Democrats decided to plan a virtual nomination for Biden after Ohio Republicans balked at passing pro forma legislation that would allow Biden to be on the ballot, even though the convention falls after a state deadline. But while Republicans passed a law to shift the deadline, Democrats decided to move forward with a virtual nomination nonetheless.

Could Democrats replace Biden against his will?

There’s no evidence the party would entertain a change without Biden’s consent. But even if it did, there’s no mechanism for it to replace a candidate before the convention, and certainly no way for it to anoint a chosen successor.

If large swaths of the Democratic Party lost faith in Biden, delegates to the national convention could theoretically defect en masse. Of course, they were chosen to be delegates because of their loyalty to Biden and have pledged to support him at the convention.

But, unlike many Republican delegates, Democratic delegates aren’t technically bound to their candidate. DNC rules allow delegates to “in all good conscience reflect the sentiments of those who elected them,” providing some wiggle room.

The party’s charter does include provisions to replace the nominee in the event of a vacancy. The measure is intended to be used in case of death, resignation or incapacitation, not to replace someone who has no desire to step down.

That was the measure that Donna Brazile, then the interim DNC chair, considered invoking after Hillary Clinton collapsed two months before the 2016 election, she wrote in her memoir .

In her memoir, released a year later, Brazile wrote that she was worried “not just about Hillary’s health but about her anemic campaign ... so lacking in the spirit of fight.” 

“Perhaps changing the candidate was a chance to win this thing, to change the playing field in a way that would send Donald Trump scrambling and unable to catch up,” she wrote, adding that aides to other would-be candidates contacted her, including then-Vice President Biden’s chief of staff.

But after less than 24 hours of consideration, Brazile realized the idea was untenable without Clinton’s cooperation and likely to only divide her party further. “I could not make good on my threat to replace her," she wrote.

Current DNC Chair Jaime Harrison is a longtime Biden ally who serves, essentially, at the pleasure of the president. And the national party has certainly given no indication it’s anything but fully behind his re-election.  

What happens if Biden withdraws after the convention?

To fill a vacancy on the national ticket, the chair can call a “special meeting” of the full DNC, which includes about 500 members. On paper, at least, all it takes is a majority vote of those present to pick new presidential and vice presidential nominees. But that process would most likely be anything but smooth and be filled with behind-the-scenes jockeying and public pressure campaigns. 

If a vacancy were to occur close to the November election, however, it could raise constitutional, legal and practical concerns. Among other issues, ballots have to be printed well in advance of the election, and it might not be possible to change them in time.

Would Kamala Harris replace Biden?

If Biden were to relinquish the presidency, Vice President Kamala Harris would automatically become president — but not the Democratic Party’s nominee. Nor would she necessarily be the nominee if Biden withdrew from his re-election bid while he remained in the White House.

She might be politically favored, but party rules give the vice president no major mechanical benefit over other candidates. 

Biden’s delegates wouldn’t automatically transfer to Harris, and the convention holds separate votes on nominees for president and vice president. So she would still need to win a majority of delegates at the convention. 

If the top of the ticket were vacated after the convention, she would still need to win a majority of votes at the special meeting of the DNC.

That is all, at least, under current party rules. But a vacancy at the top of the ticket is the kind of dramatic moment that might lead party leaders to revisit them in the name of easing the transition. Harris has some close allies in key places at the DNC, including a co-chair of the party’s Rules and Bylaws Committee. But nothing would be likely to happen without a fight.

Ben Kamisar is a national political reporter for NBC News.

Alex Seitz-Wald is a senior politics reporter for NBC News.

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The 20 coolest, prettiest and quirkiest seaside towns in the UK

After a good dose of sun, sand and sea air? Here’s our pick of the best seaside towns in the UK right now

Photograph: Shutterstock

The UK really does boast quite a lot of coastline – we’re an island, after all – and seeing every little lighthouse, cliff collection, sweeping bay and dramatic headland would be no walk on the beach . That’s not even all our coasts have to offer. 

Our shores are decorated with a vast number of marvellous coastal settlements, from the characterful fishing villages of Wales  and the upmarket enclaves of Cornwall to the pulsing party towns of the Sussex coast. Leave those clichés of soggy chips, rainy weather and nasty seagulls at home – our handpicked roundup of the country’s coolest and prettiest seaside towns includes knock-out restaurants and cutting-edge museums, as well as plenty of sandy walks for the sunniest days of the year. Without further ado, here are the UK’s very best seaside towns.

RECOMMENDED: 🌊The best  outdoor swimmming pools in the UK 🏖️The most  amazing hidden beaches in the UK 🐟The best  fish and chips shops in the UK 🌤️The best   places to visit in the UK

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best seaside towns in the UK

1.  brighton, east sussex.

What’s the vibe?  It’s does camp, it does quaint, it does everything in between

Why go?   Brighton’s rep as a bit of a party down is by no means unfounded. The city is a pulsing magnet for hen and stag weekends, students and old hippy rockers thanks to its packed roster of parties throughout this summer months, and its  pubs  are packed all year round, too. However, nightlife is far from the only thing this place has to offer. Yes, the beach is pebbly, and while that might be off-putting for the dainty-footed among us, I  promise  it grows on you – you can go for a dip and then move on with your day, no endless sand removal needed.

Don’t miss   the North Laine . Brighton’s artsiest patch comprises a smattering of coffee shops, pubs, actually good vintage shopping and locally-owned boutiques, enough to keep you occupied all afternoon.

2.  North Berwick

What’s the vibe?  Windswept indie shops and an up-and-coming arts scene

Why go?  A swift 30 minutes train journey from Edinburgh city centre, it's easy to see why North Berwick was recently crowned one of the best places to live in the country by the Sunday Times. But it's not too shabby a place to visit, either – as a day trip from the Scottish capital or for a longer, slower break. Not only are the beaches bliss – vast stretches of sand are dotted with glistening rock pools and happy dogs let off the lead – the high street boasts a number of charming cafés, gift shops, art galleries and eateries.  Don't miss Orange Moon , a record store in the upstairs of Steampunk Coffee , and the Scottish Seabird Centre, where you can hop on a tour to Bass Rock to visit a thriving gannet colony.

Don’t miss   The Fringe by the Sea – a selection of top-class theatre, music and comedy shows in the first week of August as part of the annual Edinburgh festival.

3.  Deal, Kent

What’s the vibe? Proper seaside town with a creative community and really great food. 

Why go? It’s smaller and less well known than its ever-popular Kentish neighbours Margate and Whitstable , but overlooking little Deal would be a mistake. Stretching along the seafront and an enormous pebble beach, Deal is a gem. It’s dotted with delicious places to eat, buzzy places to drink and gorgeous places to look at or buy beautiful things. Try 81 Beach Street , wine bar Le Pinardier and Smugglers Records for starters. 

Don’t miss A slap-up Sunday lunch in The Rose ’s seriously stylish dining room. 

4.  Hunstanton, Norfolk

What’s the vibe? Striped cliffs and stonking sunsets.  

Why go? With the unusual stripy cliffs behind and The Wash in front, visitors to Hunstanton are in the unique position of being in the only spot in east England from where you can see the sun both rise and set. While away the hours in between by admiring Hunstanton’s Heritage Gardens – in the summer months you can follow a self-guided Horticultural Trail, look out for markets and events on the green, pick up a souvenir from Britain’s largest joke shop, explore Old Hunstanton’s stone cottages and refuel at The Neptune , a brilliant local pub.

Don’t miss Follow the Norfolk Coast Path, a trail from Hunstanton to Sea Palling that hugs the shoreline, to take in the dramatic beauty of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

5.  St Ives, Cornwall

What's the vibe? A fishing town with serious artistic clout.

Why go? Three reasons: seafood, art and surfing. St Ives was and is a working fishing village, and even though most of its whitewashed cottages are now holiday rentals, the seafood here is still the good stuff – especially when served about as close to the sea as you can get while staying dry, at the swish cafés on Porthminster and Porthmeor beaches. In the ’20s and ’30s, the fishermen were joined by artists and potters like Barbara Hepworth, Bernard Leach and even colourful-squares guy Piet Mondrian. There are still plenty of artists here, and loads of places to chin-stroke, including Tate St Ives , Hepworth’s house and sculpture garden and tucked-away gallery-shop St Ives Ceramics . And more recently, St Ives has become a surf town, with rad dudes of all genders getting salty all year round in its many piratical-looking coves.

Don't miss The atmospheric fishermen’s graveyard on Barnoon Hill, including the tomb of salty sea dog and self-taught artist Alfred Wallis.

6.  Nefyn, Gwynedd

What’s the vibe?  Extreme isolation. Surprisingly blue waters.

Why go?   The Llŷn Peninsula is where you go in Wales if you really want to get away from it all. But if you don’t want to do away with human company altogether, we’d suggest staying in Nefyn: a small town and community that stretches out to nearby Edern and Morfa Nefyn. The main draw here is the Morfa beach – a sandy stretch complete with pretty pub and whitewashed cottages. The town itself is a brilliant base for hikers with their sights set on nearby Snowdonia.

Don’t miss   A trek up to the Tre’r Ceiri hillfort, which looms 450 metres above sea level on the Yr Eifl hills. It’s one of the best-preserved Iron Age settlements in the UK.

7.  Dartmouth, Devon

What’s the vibe?  Exquisite seafood and excellent walking opps.

Why go?   Okay, so it’s technically not actually a seaside town – rather a town on the banks of the River Dart, a couple of miles from the sea. But Dartmouth comes with everything you could want in a trip to the coast. There are historic pubs, and there are walking trails straight out to the sea. There are boat trips galore, and there are crabbers crabbing away in the harbour daily. In Mitch Tonks, the town also has a veritable super-chef whose restaurants here serve some of the country’s finest seafood. It’s a taste of the Med, in a thoroughly British setting.   Don’t miss The Seahorse , Tonks’s snazziest restaurant, right on the waterfront. One day you might get cuttlefish risotto, another fritto misto with aioli. It’s all ridiculously delicious.

8.  Whitby, Yorkshire

What’s the vibe? A trad Yorkshire fishing town that exudes more gothic splendour than David Bowie in The Hunger .

Why go? Whitby  is not your average seaside spot. While it has a dramatic coastline, soft stretches of caramel sand, top-notch fish and chips and a quaint harbour, it’s all overlooked by a cliff-top graveyard and Whitby Abbey , a 1,360-year-old ruin that inspired Bram Stoker’s vampire-filled novel ‘ Dracula’ . It has even more goth credentials as the site of the bi-annual Whitby Goth Weekend festival , when the place is descended on by black-clad music fans, and as the home of Whitby Jet: a gemstone made from fossilised wood known for the intensity of its blackness. If you’re after an eccentric day out, there’s plenty to sink your teeth into here. Don’t miss Ask any local where you’ll find the best fish and chips and they’ll say Magpie Café : queues snake down the pavement.

9.  Lymington, Hampshire

What’s the vibe? A Georgian sailing town with proper salty pubs.

Why go? Lymington’s a refined seaside town with postcard-perfect high streets – but the boat-filled harbour is the main attraction. Get out on the water with one of the town’s sailing experiences, join a chartered fishing excursion or just watch the world go by with a pint from one of the wonky-fronted old pubs. 

Don’t miss The annual Lymington Seafood Festival in August, when jazz and blues meet fresh seafood cooked up by top chefs.

10.  Dungeness, Kent

What’s the vibe? Shingle strolls, bird-watching and otherworldly desert surroundings.

Why go? There’s a vague apocalyptic feel about Dungeness, a little fishing town at the southernmost point of Kent . Its wild landscape of stark, shingle desert headland is overlooked by the imposing Dungeness Nuclear Power Station. But, thanks to this, there is something uniquely beautiful about the place, with its lighthouses, abandoned fishing boats, wooden cabins and thriving wildlife. Follow the two-mile trail around RSPB Dungeness to spot rare seabirds. Refuel at the famous Snack Shack : they’ll serve you their catch of the day in a warm bun. 

Don’t miss Get a look at the iconic coal-black Prospect Cottage , former home to film director Derek Jarman, and its magical shingle garden.

11.  Lyme Regis, Dorset

What’s the vibe?  Old stuff and  really  old stuff.

Why go?  Lyme has all the cute fisherman’s cottages, sandy beaches, antiques emporiums and pasty shops that you could want in a West Country seaside escape. But it’s also got something a little more unusual: gajillions of years’ worth of fossil history. If you’ve seen the movie Ammonite , you’ll know that this was once the hunting ground of teenage Regency fossil-finder extraordinaire, Mary Anning. Accordingly, there’s not just history but  pre history on display around town, extending from the abundant fossil shops to the nifty ammonite-shaped street lamps along the seafront. Fossils still turn up here on the beaches every day, and although you probably won’t find a whole ichthyosaur skeleton while out for a paddle, there’s no harm in trying.

Don’t miss  A stroll along The Cobb, Lyme’s historic harbour wall – it had a starring role in novels by Jane Austen and John Fowles, and there’s even a little aquarium at the end. 

12.  Tobermory, Isle of Mull

What’s the vibe? A Hebridean fishing village in Farrow & Ball colours.

Why go? Anyone who happened to watch a lot of British kids’ TV in the early noughties will recognise Tobermory’s harbourfront as the setting of CBeebies hit ‘Balamory’. Aside from its pre-school legacy, this tiny town has huge charm, a local puffin population and a rich history of producing magical malt whiskies. Once you’ve got an eyeful of the famous rainbow cottages by the harbour, stroll out to the pretty lighthouse at Rubha nan Gall, the megalithic Standing Stones at Baliscate or head out on a boat trip from the harbour to spot minke whales and basking sharks. When it comes to trad Scottish music, Tobar – Mull’s art centre – puts on good knees-up. Be sure to pick up a fish supper beforehand from the famous van on the pier.

Don’t miss A chance to sip the proper stuff on a tour of the Tobermory Distillery .

13.  Tynemouth, Tyne & Wear

What’s the vibe? Britain’s coolest seaside town? Could be.

Why go? Eight miles outside of Newcastle , Tynemouth manages to perfectly merge artisan city cool and wholesome coastal pursuits into the perfect salty, seaside package. Its three white sandy beaches are overlooked by a ruined priory and castle; a working lighthouse stands at the tip of its craggy headland; and it has a period high street crammed with traditional pubs and fish and chip shops. Alongside all this, however, you’ll find tooth-achingly cool small-batch artisan roasteries like Tynemouth Coffee Company , forward-thinking restaurants, quirky bars and craft beer spots, a thriving surfing community and designer-maker emporiums.  

Don’t miss Riley’s Fish Shack : a shipping container restaurant that cooks up Michelin star-worthy seafood right next to the beach.

14.  Crosby, Merseyside

What’s the vibe? Vast sands and sculptural surprises. 

Why go? Near   Liverpool in the suburbs of Merseyside, Crosby might look like just another English market town – apart from the fact it’s bordered by rolling sand dunes and fast-changing tides that draw out to reveal a boundless stretch of sandy beach. Carry on up the coast to find Hightown and its prehistoric submerged forest, and Formby National Trust coastal reserve , home to red squirrels and preserved neolithic footprints. 

Don’t miss The main draw here is ‘Another Place’:  artist Antony Gormley’s ambitious sculpture project of 100 lifesize cast-iron figures dotted over a two-mile stretch of the beach. Grab a sandwich and watch the figures as they’re revealed and submerged by the tides.

15.  Falmouth, Cornwall

What’s the vibe? A cosmopolitan university town with Blue Flag beaches and plenty of Cornish charm.

Why go? While Cornish seaside towns usually tend towards old-fashioned bucket-and-spade charm or cutesy  chic, Falmouth has a more youthful, cosmopolitan air, partly thanks to University College Falmouth, which specialises in arts, design and media. The hip bars and cafés, independent shops along the charismatic old high street, charming restaurants and award-winning Falmouth Art Gallery are dotted around the picture-postcard harbour beside ancient castles and sandy beaches. 

Don’t miss Get out on the water and take the ferry from Falmouth to Truro. The journey takes in all the best bits of the Fal River, including waterside villages like Malpas and the Tudor castles of Pendennis and St Mawes.

16.  Aberaeron, Ceredigion

What’s the vibe?   Foodie central, with a weird thing for honey.

Why go?   Three reasons: the buildings, the ice cream and the dolphins. Roughly halfway between Aberystwyth and Cardigan, on Wales’s west coast, Aberaeron’s harbourside is ringed with beautiful Georgian houses – like especially radiant gems on a fairly everyday necklace. The town is perhaps best known for its honey ice cream, the most delicious of which you’ll find at restaurant The Hive , but it’s also a prime spot for seafood and afternoon tea and cake – making it the ideal pitstop on your way up the Wales Coast Path.

Don’t miss   Cardigan Bay is one of the best places in Europe to spot dolphins. Head out on a boat trip from nearby New Quay and look out for the bottlenose pods that like to linger off the coast.

17.  Cromarty, Highlands

What’s the vibe? A Highland f ishing village with a fairytale feel. 

Why go? Sticking out like a witch’s hat into Cromarty Firth, this tiny, old-time fishing town is straight out of a fairy tale. Perched on the tip of the Black Isle – a sea-scuffed Highland peninsula – it’s surrounded by pink-tinged beaches, waterfalls with names like Fairy Glen and mysterious Clootie Wells, where people hang up rags as part of an ancient Celtic tradition. Cromarty’s section of the bay is lined with eighteenth-century fisherman’s cottages and clusters of historic buildings in the traditional Highland vernacular, all  whitewashed walls and black window frames. Look out for East Church, with its elegant clear-glazed windows, and Hugh Miller’s Cottage , a quaint thatched museum dedicated to a local geologist. Then head to Burnside Place ’s converted eighteenth-century brewery, where the Cromarty Brewing Company serves up suds and Cromarty Arts Trust holds spoken-word nights.

Don’t miss Hop on a boat tour from the harbour to see if you can spot the world’s most northerly pod of bottlenose dolphins. 

18.  Bardsea, Cumbria

What’s the vibe? Quiet, moody and utterly atmospheric.

Why go? While hordes of holidaymakers descend on the nearby  Lake District , Bardsea village and its vast expanse of marshy sand remains totally serene. This is retreat country: marshy grasses lead out into Morecambe Bay, which is overlooked by  Conishead Priory, a former abbey that’s now a Buddhist Centre with eye-popping Tibetan  architecture. The centre couldn’t have found a more beautiful location: this is the perfect spot for doing a bit of soul-searching.

Don’t miss Venture out to Chapel Island, a small outcrop off the coast, which was once the site of an ancient chapel built by the monks of Conishead. You can only visit when the tide is out and you’ll need to go with an experienced guide who’ll help you avoid the quicksand.

19.  Saltburn-by-the-Sea, Yorkshire

What’s the vibe? A Victorian seaside town that remains charmingly untouched. 

Why go? The North Yorkshire coast has its fair share of picturesque seaside towns, but Saltburn-by-the-Sea really is a looker. It’s all thanks to Henry Pease, a Victorian industrialist who created Saltburn in 1858 after having a celestial vision of a pleasure grounds on a cliff edge. It still has its original funicular, the Saltburn Cliff Lift, which takes visitors down to a huge sandy beach, and its original Victorian pier, which (unlike neighbouring Scarborough) has avoided the usual gaudy amusements. Despite the antiquated surroundings, there’s an arty, contemporary undercurrent running through the place. Look out for its vibrant independent businesses, burgeoning surfing scene, crafty farmer markets, and jazz nights.

Don’t miss A pint in the Ship Inn , a legit sixteenth-century smugglers’ tavern.

20.  Salcombe, Devon

What’s the vibe? Secluded Devon splendour meets extreme toffness.

Why go? It’s legit beautiful, surrounded by majestic hills and quiet tidal beaches. It might be on the glitzier, pricer side – come summer it caters to the upmarket tourism market with its clusters of posh boutiques and chic restaurants – but, you’ll also find plenty of natural splendour here too. East Portlemouth Beach’s secluded sandy coves are perfect wild-swimming spots and coastal trail the South West Coast Path takes you past hidden beaches, rugged pinnacles and undulating sea views. 

Don’t miss The stunning National Trust garden (and view) at Overbeck House , followed by a seafood platter at beach-side restaurant The Winking Prawn . 

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8 House of the Dragon Filming Locations You’ll Want to Visit

The breathtaking House of the Dragon filming locations present something of a cinematic passport. The Game of Thrones prequel, adapted from George R.R. Martin’s 2018 novel Fire & Blood, may take place in a different world entirely, but for its production the cast and crew travel to real centuries-old cities across Europe. Now in its second season, the show chronicles the family drama, political climate, and war around the House Targaryen of Dragonstone 172 years prior to the birth of Queen Daenerys Targaryen.

Milly Alcock as Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and Matt Smith as Prince Daemon Targaryen in House of the Dragon

So far, crews have hit four different European countries—England and Spain for both seasons, Portugal for the first, and Wales for the second. While the art department might add the Westeros spin to these spots, the show offers glimpses of real-world places that are stuck in time.

So come along with Architectural Digest as we take you on a tour to explore some of the destinations featured in House of the Dragon , which airs Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and Max.

Castleton, Derbyshire, England

Cave Dale in Castleton.

Castleton is a village in high-peaked Derbyshire, home to one of the oldest lead mines, and it became The Vale of Arryn in the show’s first season. ( Game of Thrones fans may remember this as the home of House Arryn and the Eyrie, a castle where enemies can be pushed to their death through a moon door.) The area first settled by Celtic people is known for its classic English hamlets and its central national park that’s home to Cave Dale, a limestone valley.

St. Michael’s Mount in Mount’s Bay, Cornwall, England

St. Michaels Mount.

The rocky tidal island of St. Michael’s Mount features a medieval church from the 12th century and an intimate living community that is linked to the island of Marazion by a causeway that tourists can reach by foot when the tide is low. The island’s main castle serves as House of the Dragon ’s fictional Driftmark (home of House Velaryon) in Blackwater Bay, the large body of water at the edge of Kings Landing. Driftmark was previously featured in Game of Thrones during the Battle of the Blackwater.

St. Michael’s Mount’s neighboring Kynance Cove is located on the east side of Mount’s Bay and is known for its beaches, blue water, white sands, and many caves. Kynance Cove’s beach is used in House of the Dragon for a Velaryon camp.

Various English beaches

Hartland Quay.

The seaside Hill at the Hartland Quay in Devon; Holywell Bay’s golden sand beaches; and nearby St. Cuthbert’s Well, a cave etched into a cliff that was formed out of ocean waves, additionally gave the first season of House of the Dragon its aquatic scenes.

Monsanto, Portugal

Monsanto, Portugal.

This remote and historical hill town in central Portugal —its name means “Holy Mountain”—is the doppelgänger for Dragonstone, the ancestral home for House Targaryen, in House of the Dragon ’s first season. Its landscape features hilltop prehistoric rock formations, a medieval clock tower, lush green landscape, and granite cottages that sit between giant boulders. Its streets are carved out of tiny cobbled rocks and climb up a very steep hill, also known as Mons Sanctus. One of 12 historical villages in Portugal, Monsanto sits close to the Spanish border and was first carved over 500 years ago. In 1938, the village was voted most Portuguese town in Portugal and currently maintains building restrictions to preserve its classical aesthetic. It is blanketed with burnt red- and orange-colored roofs atop houses carved directly into the rock formations.

La Calahorra, Granada, Spain

Castillo de La Calahorra.

The municipality La Calahorra in eastern Granada is reimagined as Pentos, one of the cities adjacent to the seas of Westeros, the fictional continent at the center of the Game of Thrones world. One of its staple landmarks, Castillo de La Calahorra, is a medieval castle that’s situated on the area’s only hill at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Acting as the seat of House Targaryen on House of the Dragon, the castle’s exterior defies the conventions of Gothic architecture, making it one the first Renaissance-inspired structures built in Spain between 1509-1512. Its gorgeous split-level interior includes marble, four corner towers, and a central courtyard.

Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain

An aerial view of Plasencia, Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain.

Located in Western Spain, the province of Cáceres is a total time capsule. Centuries-old buildings appear much as they did hundreds and hundreds of years ago, showcasing a range of architectural styles which include Roman, Moorish, and Gothic influences. King’s Landing scenes have been filmed in a few different cities in the province, including the walled city of Plasencia for the first season, Trujillo for the second season, and the capital city of Cáceres for both.

The Old Town of Cáceres, a walled section of the capital, was founded in 25 BC by the Romans. Its untouched medieval cobblestone streets give the city a particularly transportive quality, begging visitors to imagine life hundreds and hundreds of years ago. In honor of its rich history that includes Roman, Moorish, and Christian occupation and architectural styles, it was named a World Heritage City by UNESCO in 1986.

While Dubrovnik, Croatia was used in prior seasons, Cáceres was used for King’s Landing in the last two seasons of Game of Thrones and for both seasons of House of the Dragon . The city even hosts an annual festival for Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon fans to experience the city alongside other obsessives.

Bourne Wood in Farnham, England

Boure Wood in Farnham, England

Bourne Wood might look like any other forest setting to some, but eagle-eyed action and fantasy fans are likely to recognize the area. Countless movies have been shot in the conifer-filled forest, including the Gladiator opening sequence, three Harry Potter films, and Avengers: Age of Ultron .

A scene from the movie Gladiator being filmed at Bourne Wood

One of House of the Dragon season two’s massive battle scenes was filmed in Bourne Wood. The forest’s large clearings make it ideal for large fight scenes and huge film crews, and the lack of added modern structures or power lines make the area feel timeless. As documented by London Cult , the forest was furnished with a tent camp, and fake snow was added to certain sections.

The location is particularly convenient for productions based out of the Warner Bros. Leavesden studio, as House of the Dragon is, since the forest is only an hour away by car. Unlike many of the other House of the Dragon locations, Bourne Wood was never used in the making of Game of Thrones .

North Wales, United Kingdom

A view of Llyn Peris below Dinorwig quarry in Gwynedd County, Wales

North Wales might not be the most popular tourist destination for North Americans, but the area’s dramatic landscapes definitely deserve the Hollywood treatment. Its collection of remarkably aged castles are second only to the unmitigated beauty of the coastal cliffs, valleys, and sprawling grasslands.

This natural splendor was employed for the second season of House of the Dragon , which used the North Wales landscape for scenes in the Vale, the Riverlands, and Dragonstone. Old quarries were reimagined for exterior shots of the Dragonstone and Harrenhal castles.

Though specifics have not been confirmed by the production, some viewers have speculated that the Trefor granite quarry and Dinorwic quarry, both in Gwynedd county, are the particular quarries used. Fans also claim that the cast and crew were spotted filming the second season on a few beaches on the Wales island of Anglesey, including Llanddwyn Beach, Beaumaris Beach, and Penmon Point.

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Euro 2024 fixtures, schedule, teams, venues: All you need to know about summer tournament in Germany

Live group tables, third place standings and last 16 confirmed games; Knockout stages get underway on Saturday; England take on Slovakia on Sunday (kick-off 5pm); Euro 2024 final takes place in Berlin on July 14

Monday 1 July 2024 07:10, UK

From fixtures and results to live group tables and the knockout bracket, keep track of the schedule at this summer's tournament.

Euro 2024 knockout fixtures

Here's the current state of play:

It's time for the knockout stages...

The tournament now moves to a straight knockout format, with one-legged ties - including extra-time and penalties if necessary - until two sides reach the final on July 14 in Berlin.

Round of 16

Saturday June 29 37 Germany 2-0 Denmark 38 Switzerland 2-0 Italy

Sunday June 30 39 Spain 4-1 Georgia 40 England 2-1 Slovakia

Monday July 1 41 Portugal vs Slovenia (Frankfurt, kick-off 8pm UK time) 42 France vs Belgium (Düsseldorf, kick-off 5pm UK time)

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Tuesday July 2 43 Romania vs Netherlands (Munich, kick-off 5pm UK time) 44 Austria vs Turkey (Leipzig, kick-off 8pm UK time)

Rest days on 3 and 4 July

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Euro 2024 latest news

Quarter-finals

Friday July 5 45 Spain vs Germany (Stuttgart, kick-off 5pm UK time) 46 Portugal or Slovenia vs France or Belgium (Hamburg, kick-off 8pm UK time)

Saturday July 6 47 Romania or Netherlands vs Austria or Turkey (Berlin, kick-off 8pm UK time) 48 England vs Switzerland (Dusseldorf, kick-off 5pm UK time)

Rest days on 7 and 8 July

Semi-finals

Tuesday July 9 49 Spain or Germany vs Portugal / Slovenia/ France / Belgium (Munich, kick-off 8pm UK time)

Wednesday July 10 50 Romania / Netherlands/ Austria / Turkey vs England or Switzerland (Dortmund, kick-off 8pm UK time)

Rest days on July 11, 12 and 13

Euro 2024 final

Sunday July 14 Winners of Game 49 vs Winners of Game 50 (Berlin, kick-off 8pm UK time)

• England's Euro 2024 fixtures and route

Euro 2024 groups and final standings

Group A - Germany, Scotland, Hungary, Switzerland

Group B - Spain, Croatia, Italy, Albania

Group C - Slovenia, Denmark, Serbia, England

Group D - Poland, Netherlands, Austria, France

Group E - Belgium, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine

Group F - Turkey, Georgia, Portugal, Czech Republic

Third-place table

Euro 2024 results

Group stage Friday June 14 Germany 5-1 Scotland

Saturday June 15 Hungary 1-3 Switzerland Spain 3-0 Croatia Italy 2-1 Albania

Sunday June 16 Poland 1-2 Netherlands Slovenia 1-1 Denmark Serbia 0-1 England

Monday June 17 Romania 3-0 Ukraine Belgium 0-1 Slovakia Austria 0-1 France

Tuesday June 18 Turkey 3-1 Georgia Portugal 2-1 Czech Republic

Wednesday June 19 Croatia 2-2 Albania Germany 2-0 Hungary Scotland 1-1 Switzerland

Thursday June 20 Slovenia 1-1 Serbia Denmark 1-1 England Spain 1-0 Italy

Friday June 21 Slovakia 1-2 Ukraine Poland 1-3 Austria Netherlands 0-0 France

Saturday June 22 Georgia 1-1 Czech Republic Turkey 0-3 Portugal Belgium 2-0 Romania

Sunday June 23 Switzerland 1-1 Germany Scotland 0-1 Hungary

Monday June 24 Croatia 1-1 Italy Albania 0-1 Spain

Tuesday June 25 Netherlands 2-3 Austria France 1-1 Poland England 0-0 Slovenia Denmark 0-0 Serbia

Wednesday June 26 Slovakia 1-1 Romania Ukraine 0-0 Belgium Czech Republic 1-2 Turkey Georgia 2-0 Portugal

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Next up, Switzerland! But who else could England face in the Euro 2024 knockout rounds?

England must go on a run of wins in the knockout stages of the tournament if they are to reach the final on 14 July.

Sunday 30 June 2024 20:27, UK

England produced a dramatic comeback to beat Slovakia on Sunday and reach the quarter-finals at Euro 2024.

Goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane gave them a 2-1 victory and their reward is a match against Switzerland on Saturday 6 July at 5pm (UK time).

If Gareth Southgate's side can overcome the Swiss, they will be just one win from reaching the final in Berlin.

England are in a seemingly good position on the supposedly "easier" side of the knockout draw, as they will avoid France, Portugal, Spain and Germany on their way to the final - if they can make it there.

Who could England play in the semi-finals?

Assuming England win their quarter-final against Switzerland, they will face either Romania, the Netherlands, Austria or Turkey on Wednesday 10 July at 8pm (UK time).

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Read more: Glastonbury will not show England match Gareth Southgate shrugs off Euros criticism

And the final?

France or Germany are among the favourites to make it to the final on Sunday July 14 - although Spain and Portugal are also considered strong contenders.

However, there have already been so many twists in the tournament that an outsider - such as (so far) undefeated Slovenia - cannot be completely ruled out.

But some critics of England's players and manager will not be expecting the side to make it that far.

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