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Lady’s 25 Best Cities in England

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

Best Cities in England

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Cambridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Canterbury

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

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

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

8. Winchester

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Newcastle

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

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

11. Birmingham

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

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

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

12. Brighton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Norwich

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

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

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

16. Nottingham

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

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

17. Leicester

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

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

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

18. Liverpool

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

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

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

19. Manchester

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

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

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

20. Bristol

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23. St Albans

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

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

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

24. Lincoln

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

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

25. City of London

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

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

Cities in England

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

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6 Comments on Lady’s 25 Best Cities in England

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

You’re welcome!

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

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

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

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

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Edinburgh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

3. Cambridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Liverpool

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Tips for Traveling to Europe

10. Cardiff

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Nottingham

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Manchester

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Manchester

13. Norwich

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Bristol

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Brighton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More travel tips and inspiration for all over the UK:

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

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

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

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

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Thursday 21st of September 2023

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

Tuesday 1st of August 2023

Thank you for sharing useful information ...

Saturday 5th of August 2023

Glad to help. Have a great trip!

Saturday 11th of February 2023

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

Sunday 12th of February 2023

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

Jessica Fletcher

Sunday 22nd of January 2023

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

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

Friday 10th of February 2023

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

Monday 23rd of January 2023

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

Friday 13th of January 2023

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

Sunday 15th of January 2023

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

12 Very Best Cities in England to visit

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 31, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities to visit in North West England

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

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

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

What to see and do in Liverpool

• Royal Albert Dock Liverpool

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

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

• Tate Liverpool

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

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

• Love the Beatles? 

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

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

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

Click to buy tickets for the Beatles story

• Another Place

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

Read more – Complete guide to visiting the city of Liverpool

How to travel to Liverpool from London by train

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

Where to stay in Liverpool

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

BEST – Hard Day’s Night Hotel

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

MID-RANGE – The Liner Hotel

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

BUDGET – The Z Hotel

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

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

⭐️ CLICK TO BUY

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

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

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

What to see and do in Manchester

• Northern Quarter

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

• Salford Quays 

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

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

How to get to Manchester from London by train

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

Where to stay in Manchester

These are my recommended accommodation options for Manchester.

BEST – The Edwardian Manchester

MID-RANGE – The Midland

BUDGET – Ibis Styles Manchester Portland Hotel

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

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

What to see and do in Chester

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

• Chester’s city walls

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

• Chester Cathedral in particular the Cathedral Choir

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

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

How to travel to Chester from London

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

Where to stay in Chester

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

BEST – The Chester Grosvenor

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

MID -RANGE – Mill Hotel and Spa

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

BUDGET – The Saddle Inn

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

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

Cities to visit in North East England

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

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

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

What to see and do in Newcastle

• Tyne Bridge

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

• The Angel of the North

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

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

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

• The Quayside

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

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

• Segedunum Roman Fort and Museum

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

How to get to Newcastle from London by train

Distance from London: 247 miles

Time taken by train: 3 hours 

Leave from: London Kings Cross to Newcastle Central Station

Where to stay in Newcastle

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

BEST – The Vermont Hotel

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

MID -RANGE – Cairn Hotel

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

BUDGET – Motel One Newcastle

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

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

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

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

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

What to see and do in Durham

• Durham Cathedral

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

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

• Durham Castle

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

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

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

• Beamish Museum

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

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

How to get to Durham from London by train

Distance from London:  234 miles

Time taken by train: 2 hours 50 mins

Leave from: London Kings Cross to Durham

Where to stay in Durham

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

BEST – The Kings Lodge Inn

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

MID -RANGE – Radisson Blu Hotel

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

BUDGET – Durham Castle

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

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

Cities to visit in Yorkshire

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

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

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

What to see and do in York

• York Minster

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

• National Railway Museum

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

• The Shambles

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

• Take afternoon tea at Bettys Tea Rooms! 

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

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

How to get to York from London by train

Distance from London: 174 miles

Leave from: London Kings Cross to York

Where to stay in York

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

BEST – Grays Court

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

MID -RANGE – Hotel Indigo York

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

BUDGET – The Bar Convent

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

Read more – What to do and see in Yorkshire

Cities to visit in the East of England

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

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

What to do and see in Cambridge

• Cambridge University

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

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

• The Fitzwilliam Museum

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

• Take a punt along the River Cam 

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

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

How to get to Cambridge from London

Distance from London: 55 miles

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

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

Where to stay in Cambridge

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

BEST – University Arms

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

MID -RANGE – Gonville Hotel

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

BUDGET – Leverton House

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

Cities to visit in South West England

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

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

What to see and do in Bath

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

• The Roman Baths

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

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

• Admire the Royal Crescent

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

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

• Pulteney Bridge

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

How to travel to Bath from London

Distance from London: 94 miles / 152 km

Time taken by train: 2 hours 28

Leave from:  London Paddington

Where to stay in Bath

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

BEST – The Gainsborough Bath Spa

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

MID -RANGE – The Bird

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

BUDGET – Z Hotel Bath

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

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

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

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

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

What to see and do in Bristol

• Clifton Suspension Bridge

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

• Bristol Shopping Quarter

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

• Discover Bristol’s street art

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

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

How to travel to Bristol from London

Distance from London: 104 miles / 167 km

Time taken by train: 1 h 49

Leave from: London Paddington

Where to stay in Bristol

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

BEST – Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel

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

MID -RANGE – Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City

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

BUDGET – Mercure Bristol Grand Hote l

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

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

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

What to see and do in Oxford

• Explore Oxford University

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

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

• The Covered Market 

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

• Blenheim Palace

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

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

How to travel to Oxford from London

Distance from London: 52 miles / 83 km

Time taken by train: 1 hour

Leave from: London Paddington/ London Marylebone

Where to stay in Oxford

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

BEST – Old Parsonage Hotel

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

MID -RANGE – Head of the River

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

BUDGET – Heather House Bed and Breakfast

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

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

Cities to visit in South East England

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

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

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

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

What to see and do in Brighton

• The Brighton Pavilion

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

• Brighton Palace Pier

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

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

How to travel to Brighton from London

Distance from London: 47 miles (75 km)

Time taken by train: 1 hour 22

Leave from: London Blackfriars/ London Victoria

Where to stay in Brighton

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

BEST – The Grand Brighton

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

MID -RANGE – The Charm Brighton Boutique Hotel and Spa

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

BUDGET – Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront

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

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

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

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

What to see and do in London

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

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

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

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

Other cities to visit which made the shortlist include

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

Adventures of Alice

19 Best Cities in England: Beautiful Cities to Visit

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

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

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

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

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

My Top Travel resources for England

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

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Bath

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Oxford

3. Cambridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Cambridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in London

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

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Bristol

6. Southampton

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Southampton

7. Plymouth

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

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Plymouth

8. Manchester

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

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Manchester

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

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

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in York

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

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Durham

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Leeds

12. Newcastle Upon Tyne

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Newcastle upon Tyne

13. Brighton

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Brighton

14. Birmingham

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Birmingham

15. Canterbury

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Canterbury

16. Salisbury

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Salisbury

17. Stratford-Upon-Avon

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Liverpool

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

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

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Liverpool

19. Newport

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

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

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

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

✅ Find the best places to stay in Newport

Final Thoughts on the Best Cities in England to Visit

Overall, England is waaaay more than just London .

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

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

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

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

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

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

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19 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jun 8, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Edinburgh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

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

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

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

Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on England

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

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

1. Brighton

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

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

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

Where to stay:

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

2. Manchester

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Liverpool

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

17 Best Places to Visit in England

England is a great place to visit, whether travelers are making their first or umpteenth trip abroad. That’s partly because the language barrier isn’t there for English speakers, though one can hear languages from throughout the world spoken here.

First-time visitors may just want to hit the highlights in England, such as Westminster Abbey or shopping at Knightsbridge in London and perhaps visit a university town or a day trip to Stonehenge.

Return visitors might opt to explore some of the other great places to visit in England which are further from London. Travelers can head south into the Cotswolds where 14th century villages will have you saying goodbye to modern conveniences. Continue to the coast to discover charming harbor towns and begin your journey down the Jurassic Coast.

Map of England

You could go north to discover the stunning valleys and rolling peaks of the Lake District. Or the city of Liverpool whose renewed waterfront and the tunes of the Beatles will take center stage in your time there.

17. Norwich

One renowned saying about Norwich still rings true; that there must be a church for every week of the year, but a pub for every day. Beer and churches go hand in hand in Norwich. You’ll see plenty of both as you explore one of England’s most intact medieval cities.

Old time streets take you by dozens of churches from over 500 years ago. Many are now museums or galleries, such as the Norwich Arts Centre. The most striking though is the Norwich Cathedral. A booming organ often rings within, but the facade and beauty of its windows will have you hooked long before.

To fuel up, head to the Norwich Market for a mix of artisanal baked goods and monstrously delicious meat sandwiches. You can burn it all off on a ride down to the coast to see the Broads, one of England’s best coastlines.

16. Dartmoor National Park

Myths and legends shroud Dartmoor National Park, making it far more than simply protected lands. In England’s southwest, Dartmoor is a captivating landscape set on the brim of ancient volcanic action.

Trails spread like roots throughout the park. These are accessible also by bicycle and horseback. Throughout you’ll stumble across centuries-old ruins, historic castles and some head-scratching stone circles.

One of the best hikes here is the Hound Tor Circular. This easy loop guides you by rugged free-standing outcrops, which have become the stuff of legend and wild ponies, before wandering through the Hound Tor medieval village.

There are ample wild camping spots in the national park. However, so much human history is here, including 20 castles. So you can expect charming towns nearby, such as Chagford.

15. Canterbury

In southern England, Canterbury is laden with sightly cathedrals, medieval alleys, lush waterfront gardens and historic walls. This is all matched by the serene riverfront, great food and even a beautiful beach.

But it’s the cathedrals that’ll take up the bulk of your exploring. It begins at the heart of the city at Canterbury Cathedral. One of the oldest in the country, it was here that the subject of King Henry II murdered Archbishop Becket in 1170. The stained windows and gothic spires still stop you in your tracks 850 years later.

With the cathedrals done, you can explore the Westgate Gardens. One of the nation’s oldest parks, it’s soaked with grandeur, with colorful flowers, the Victorian Tower House and the meandering River Stour. The latter is best explored on a punting boat.

14. St Michael’s Mount

Like a scene out of a fairy tale, St Michael’s Mount stands across the water waiting for a hero. The last bit of that sentence isn’t accurate, but you get the picture.

Crowned by a medieval castle and church, you can arrive at St Michael’s Mount via a short boat ride. At low tide, you may even be able to walk across. On the island lies the Aubyn family and a small community that keeps alive centuries of history.

Some buildings date back to the 11th century and tales of the past lie around every corner. That includes the legend of Jack the Giant Killer. Exploring the streets is riveting, as are the sub-tropical gardens that offer views back to Cornwall.

13. Liverpool

The city of Liverpool lived through the rise and fall of the 20th century. It’s come out the other side rich with the memories of the Beatles and that same cheeky character that has always made Liverpool fun.

The Liverpool skyline has been immortalized in song. But you must see it for yourself while you’re here. There are several ways to do it. One, by journeying down the Mersey, spotting its best sights along the way, including Wallasey Town Hall and the Victoria Tower.

The other is from the Royal Liver Building. In the atmospheric Pier Head, the tower has clock faces bigger than Big Ben. From the top, you can see forever.

Now that you have your bearings, go on a Beatles tour or take in one of the many great museums, from the Merseyside Maritime Museum to the International Slavery Museum. The latter diving into Liverpool’s role as a bustling port.

12. Lake District

Home to England’s largest national park, the Lake District in Cumbria has always struck visitors as hauntingly beautiful. It inspired dozens of novels in the era of Romanticism, with its rolling hills and fields being both captivating and eerie.

In the heart of the region lies the Lake District National Park. Here, depending on the time of year, you’ll find triangular ridges draped in green and granite. They fall to fields bright with wildflowers. From a viewpoint, you’ll see shimmering lakes in great numbers.

Down in the valley, Windermere sits on miles of lakefront while nearby Hawkshead is another gateway to nature but also the home of Beatrix Potter.

11. Chester

The heart of Chester can rightfully lay claim to being one of the best-looking town centers in England. Black and white timbered townhouses flank cobbled streets, dancing in between dark sandstone buildings. Then there’s the encasing of Roman walls to top it all off.

Travel here starts at the Rows, where you can find the aforementioned arcade of Victorian and Tudor buildings. This stretch showcases Chester at its height in the Middle Ages when it was one of the northwest’s most prominent port towns.

But it only gets better. The Chester Cathedral dates back to the 1100s and has maintained much of its original appeal. Then there’s the Roman Amphitheater, which is argued to be the site of Camelot and the knight’s round table.

10. Bristol

The city of Bristol, filled to the brim with creativity, is the birthplace of one of the world’s most famous modern day artists. Banksy grew up on the streets of Bristol. You can see some of his works here, as he was no doubt inspired by Bristol’s burgeoning street scene.

The colorful streets of Bristol welcome you with open arms. Nowhere is this more obvious than Stokes Croft. Artist cafes, eccentric pubs and vintage shops line the streets splashed with murals and personality.

But beyond the counter-culture is a historic harbor home to the SS Great Britain. The ship is wide open to visitors to explore much of the original design from 1856.

Bristol is set along the Avon River. This is where you can find another piece of memorable engineering, the Clifton Suspension Bridge. The design of this bridge is matched only by the stunning sight.

One of England’s most picturesque port towns, St Ives in Cornwall, is the country’s great beachfront escape. On a sunny English day (yes, they happen), the baby blue waters of St Ives glisten. The white sand leads your eyes towards the banks and the 18th century homes topped by orange roofs. It’s a place you immediately want to explore.

Kick it off with a wander of St Ives’ harbor. Brightly colored fishing boats are already back from the morning trek and now dot the shoreline. Continue past the golden sands of Porthgwidden Beach towards the Chapel of St Nicholas. The latter’s historic confines link to the smuggling of the Napoleonic Wars.

Yes, the sun’s shining. But the Atlantic Coast winds can still be bristling. Grab a traditional Cornish pasty to balance it out. Now full of energy, check out the town’s arts and culture scene at Tate and the Barbara Hepworth Museum. Finish the day off with a dip and a dinner by the sea.

8. The Cotswolds

The epitome of the English countryside, the Cotswolds are the height of romanticism. From Bath to Stratford-upon-Avon, this region is punctuated with lush landscapes, honey-colored villages and mouth-watering cuisine.

Historic cottages, a scene out of a Renaissance painting, welcome you at every turn. In front of them, landscaped gardens roll forward and are cut off only for equally pleasant canals.

You could spend a week exploring each area in great detail. But the highlights of the Cotswolds are Bibury and Stow-on-the-Wold. Charm seeps from every crevice in both these towns. They’re a treasure trove of history and evoke the mystical.

That’s never more clear than along Arlington Row in Bibury. Forget the white-picket fence. These limestone buildings from the 1300s are the stuff of societal dreams.

Beyond, let your car and the open road guide you to the best of Bath, the Westonbirt Arboretum, Blenheim Palace and the Abbey House Gardens.

Bath got its name because that’s what it was when it was founded by the Romans in 60 AD. Today it is a culturally rich city, home to Bridgerton and, of course, the famous Roman Baths. But when you look beneath the surface, you’ll discover just how much depth Bath has.

Geothermic springs spring from the underground here in Bath . The Romans were the first to tap into this natural phenomenon. It marks the start of the Bath you see today. You can discover the Roman Baths, its history and sumptuous courtyards. Balance this with a modern experience with a rooftop dip at Thermae Bath Spa.

Aside from plenty of Roman touches, you can discover eye-catching Georgian architecture in Bath. The British version of the Italian Renaissance style, you can discover the height of this at the Royal Crescent. A prominent backdrop in Bridgerton, the Crescent arches around a sprawling terrace and sightly lawn. Go further by visiting the No. 1 Royal Crescent museum.

6. Cambridge

Like Oxford below, Cambridge is a delightful mix of historic educational institutions, a rhythmic waterfront and ample medieval architecture.

Although famous for King’s and Trinity Colleges, these institutions share a slightly lower profile among travelers. Those interested will do well to take advantage of the lower crowds to explore magnificent campuses. That includes the enormous quadrangle that envelopes Trinity College and the marvelous King’s College Chapel.

The chapel is embellished with a Gothic touch and strikes a presence in Cambridge’s skyline. From the 1500s, it features some elaborate wood carvings, captivating stained glass and the world’s largest fan-vaulted ceiling.

Arguably the best way to see Cambridge, however, is to punt your way down the Cam. The water guides you by the best of medieval Cambridge and under some sightly college bridges.

You’ll have to get back on land to see some great museums, though. Be sure to add Kettle’s Yard and the Fitzwilliam Museum to the itinerary. Top it all off with a pub crawl along Mill Road for a quintessential Cambridge experience.

5. Jurassic Coast

England has no shortage of human history. But its Jurassic Coast offers a different take – one of the natural variety. A journey to discover this stunning coastline and her magical rock formations is really a journey back 185 million years.

The Jurassic Coast is England’s solitary Natural World Heritage Site. It spans 95 miles from Exmouth to Studland Bay. The ragged, rolling cliffs grow ever larger as the crashing waters, wind and rain sculpt the mix of clay and limestone. Within these sedimentary cliffs lie the fossils of dinosaurs preserved in ever-changing geologic phenomena. Charmouth is the best place to find fossil.

Beyond the cliffs, there are several spots to take a refreshing dip. You’ll get great views of the wild coast from Worbarrow Bay, Chapman’s Pool and the thrilling Dancing Ledge.

As it’s still England, there’s plenty of charm and human history. You can jump aboard the historic Seaton Tramway. Or settle in for a cozy night in the small, idyllic town of Branscombe.

Modern charm, historic universities and a tipple of medieval fun can be found in Oxford . The River Thames flows through the town, creating an abundance of waterfront splendor. This is exacerbated by canals which run busy with relaxing sunset cruises.

The University of Oxford, however, deserves to be front and center of your experience here. One of the world’s most celebrated universities, it’s a marvel to explore. Tours take you through the leafy quads on your way into iconic halls, and chapels that have welcomed students for almost 1,000 years.

Naturally, you’ll also discover world-class museums, such as the Ashmolean. Beyond the neo-classical facade is the country’s oldest public museum.

More Harry Potter fun can be had at King’s Cross Station, Divinity School and Knockturn Alley. You’ll also have the chance to explore Churchill’s birthplace at the remarkable Blenheim Palace before seeing the city from a different angle along its glistening river.

For several years in the 3rd century, the otherwise unassuming city of York was the capital of the Roman Empire. But utterly captivating neighborhoods mix with famous landmarks and a dash of Harry Potter to create one of England’s must-see cities.

Rewards lie around every corner in York, for those travelers that simply like to wander and discover. From the Romans and Vikings to the Industrial Revolution, every significant era left a piece of themselves in York. It’s as if the city was an open canvas and they filled it in.

Cobbled streets guide you by the York Minster. Here, you can walk up 275 steps by stained glass from the Medieval era to the best view in town. From the top, you’ll admire the kaleidoscope array of rooftops.

There’s no better spot to wander through than the Shambles, the inspiration for Diagon Alley. Afterwards, walk the City Walls that lead to genuine medieval bars for a well-earned pint.

2. Stonehenge & Avebury

Taking you back 5,000 years to the Neolithic period, both Stonehenge & Avebury are unforgettable sights. Both represent a deep dive into early cultures and showcase just how much time has passed. After all, we are much closer to the height of the Roman Empire than they were to the construction of the mesmerizing stone circles.

Both of these sites are under separate management. However, they’re close enough that you can explore both in a single day. Time spent here is time out in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside, shaped by thousands of years of human history. But with no written remarks, both circles lay shrouded in mystery.

It’s certainly part of the appeal. The number of annual Stonehenge visitors averages one million per year. It’s well worth braving the crowds, however, to see these crafted stones up close.

The pros of Avebury lie in just how close you can get to the stones. Aside from it being free to visit, the space lies open to visitors, allowing you to explore, touch and get as many angles for the best photos.

Exciting, historic and inspiring, London is an international city that is still oh so very British. A bustling downtown quickly spreads into adorable and colorful neighborhoods.

Both are well connected by the city’s famed Tube, an expansive subway system. This allows you to get around with ease before you consider the iconic black taxis or double-decker buses.

There’s an endless list of things to do in London . One can find themselves on the South Bank crossing a myriad of historic and modern bridges. Both lead to celebrated sites like the Big Ben, the Tower of London and even Shakespeare’s Globe. Popular markets are littered in between, providing an insightful crossroads between travelers and locals.

As the sun falls, the city lights shine on the River Thames and the bright, spinning wheel of the Eye captures your attention. But believe us, there’s much more to do. A night out on the town in Soho leads to a slow morning in Hyde Park. The nearby Buckingham Palace changes its guards to great fanfare before you choose between a litany of great shopping streets and even better museums .

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15 Most Charming Small Towns In England

14 Best Cities to Visit in England

28 Top Attractions & Things to Do in England

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12 Best Things to do in Bath, UK

12 Best Things to Do in York, England

12 Best Things to Do in Chester, England

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November 3, 2014 at 5:51 am

The Lake District and Stonehenge are spectacular parts of England. The English countryside is as beautiful as the cities are interesting, which makes it a great country to visit!

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• Travel Guide

Top 10 Must-Visit Cities in England

Published: January 28, 2021

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Rina Bernardo

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Packed with a number of both historical and natural wonders, England is one of the most-visited countries in the world. It is also famous for its cities. And while London is a classic favorite, there are other cities in England worth visiting! These cities are teeming with iconic landmarks and places that played a part in the country’s history. Visiting lesser-known cities also lets you see a different side of England. Best of all, you can travel to these cities in a few hours so you don’t have to spend most of your holiday in just one city.

To make the most out of your trip, here are cities in England to visit on your next trip!

10 Best Cities in England to Visit

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A list of best cities in England is never complete without mentioning its capital city: London ! The city has been a favorite and is usually the first city in every traveler’s must-visit in England. With its iconic double-decker buses, buildings, and even the red telephone booths, who wouldn’t want to explore this European giant? As one of the major cities in the world, London is also one of the most visited cities in terms of international visits.

Filled with many districts with unique charms, there are just so many things you can do in London! Go on a sightseeing tour and visit sites like the Tower of London, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Witness the Changing of the Guards Ceremony — a must for anyone visiting London, or watch a musical at West End. For a less touristy experience, head to the many neighborhoods in the city and find out what makes it one of the most visited cities in the world.

What to Do:

• Visit the National Gallery
• Watch the Changing of the Guards Ceremony
• Ride the London Eye
• Have afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason  
• Go on a food crawl and visit Borough Market

Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November

2. Manchester

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Also known as the Capital of the North, Manchester is one of England’s major cities. The city played a major part during the Industrial Revolution, earning its name of “Cottonopolis” during the Victorian era because of its textile manufacturing industry. World War II damaged most of the city’s infrastructures, but they were soon rebuilt and renovated. Aside from its textile manufacturing industry, Manchester is also notable for its music scene, art, architecture, and sports clubs.

While Manchester isn’t as large or as bustling as London, there are plenty of things you can do here. Check out the museums, art galleries, and explore the city as you admire its architecture. For football fans, don’t miss the chance to watch a Manchester United match at their home turf, the historic Old Trafford. Music lovers can also join guided tours about the city’s history of music as bands like The Smiths, Stone Roses, and Oasis all started out in this city.

• Visit Manchester Cathedral
• Watch a Manchester United or Manchester City match
• Shop at the independent record stores
• Party at The Warehouse Project
• Go museum-hopping

Best Time to Visit: June to August

3. Liverpool

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Not far from Manchester is Liverpool , one of the best cities in England. It is famous for being the birthplace of The Beatles, arguably the music industry’s most influential band. Football fans will also recognize Liverpoo,l thanks to football clubs Liverpool FC and Everton FC. But apart from the Fab Four and football clubs, there’s more to this riverside city!

When in Liverpool, visit The Beatles Story and enjoy this walk-through exhibition detailing the history of The Beatles. Embrace and learn more about the football culture by visiting the Liverpool Football Museum at Anfield. If you can’t catch a game, you can go on stadium tours and walk around exclusive areas like the dugout and players’ rooms. Additionally, you can relax at Albert Dock and see the well-preserved structures of this city.

• Join a Beatles-themed tour
• Visit the Cavern Club  
• Hop-on hop-off tour at the Mersey Ferry
• Visit the World Museum
• Explore St George’s Quarter

Best Time to Visit: March to May

4. Cambridge

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Filled with medieval structures and Gothic chapels, Cambridge should be on every traveler’s list of must-visit cities in England. Although Cambridge University is without a doubt the main star of the city, there are more sights to see here. As you explore the university city, you’ll find colleges, churches, and museums that make you feel like you’ve gone back in time. Bring out your cameras and make sure to snap every Instagram-worthy spot in Cambridge .

Cross the Mathematical Bridge, a fascinating bridge built entirely out of wood using a unique engineering design. Indulge your inner bookworm and purchase a couple of books at Heffers Bookshop. If you want to see Cambridge from a different perspective, climb to the top of the tower at the Church of St. Mary the Great. Alternatively, hop on a boat at the River Cam and go punting, one of the locals’ favorite pastimes.

• Visit Cambridge University Botanical Garden
• Try punting at the River Cam
• Tour around Cambridge University
• Go to King’s College Chapel
• Shop for local finds at Market Square

Best Time to Visit: June to October

Photo by ChungkwanShin on Pixabay

Just like Cambridge, Oxford is one of the popular university cities in England. Fans of the Harry Potter films and Alice in Wonderland may recognize the city’s connection with the aforementioned classics. Oxford is also home to the world’s oldest English-speaking campus, Oxford University, also home to some of the greatest minds of all time.

Because of its proximity from the capital, a trip from London to Oxford is one of the best things to do in England. Explore the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe and a filming location in the Harry Potter series. Walk around the old-school streets of Oxford and find historic sites, chapels, and even pubs. However, if you have limited time, you can join walking tours that take you around the city’s best highlights. 

Take a break at Oxford Botanical Garden

• See the famous Radcliffe Camera
• Explore Christ Church College
• Visit the Oxford University Museum of Natural History
• Join a Harry Potter filming locations tour

Best Time to Visit: May to September

Photo by alice_photo on Adobe Stock

Take the train or coach from London to Bath , one of the country’s most beautiful and historic cities. Listed as the City of Bath , this UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded by the Romans and was utilized as a thermal spa. During the Georgian Era, the city flourished and developed into a picture-perfect city that blends natural resources with Neoclassical buildings. Raking up to a million visitors every year, Bath is one of the most-visited cities in England.

A visit to Bath is incomplete without visiting the famous Roman baths. The well-preserved thermae was said to have been a center of worship for the deity, Sulis. But aside from the baths, there are other attractions in this spa town. Walk around its cobblestone-laden streets and be in awe of its Georgian and neoclassical architecture. See the Royal Crescent and relax at the nearby gardens in front of it.

• Visit the Roman Baths
• Walk around Green Street
• Take a dip at the Thermae Bath Spa
• Hike up the Bath Skyline walk
• Have afternoon tea at Sally Lunn’s Tea Room & Restaurant

Best Time to Visit: July to September

7. Brighton

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Warm and sunny, Brighton is one of the cities in England that are also famous summer getaways. This university town once suffered from storms, a dwindling population, and foreign attacks, but slowly became famous once road conditions to and from London improved. And like Bath, the city developed into a seaside resort during the Georgian era. Due to its strategic location near the coast, Brighton also became a hotspot for sea bathing.

From London, take an hour-long train ride to Brighton and bask under the warm summer sun. Explore the Palace Pier and enjoy the carnival rides. Hop from one stall to another and enjoy snacks like ice cream and fish and chips or head to the restaurants and feats on fresh seafood. Shop at the many independent stores at the Lanes, North Laine, and at the weekly flea markets. Then at night, enjoy live music or dance the night away at the clubs and bars in town.

• Visit Brighton Palace Pier
• Lounge by the beach
• Shop at The Lanes
• Hang out at the beach bars
• Admire the Royal Pavilion

Best Time to Visit: May to June, September

8. Nottingham

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Hailed as the Queen of the Midlands, Nottingham is a charming town some 206 kilometers from London. Apart from its lace-making industry, Nottingham is also famous for its connection to Robin Hood, a literary classic. Around the city, you’ll find several sites linked to famous legends and even tailor-made tours catering to popular English folklore.

From centuries-old castles, quaint pubs, and walking trails, there’s no shortage of things to do in Brighton. Go for a leisurely walk following the Robin Hood Way or Sherwood Forest. Pay a visit and have a few drinks at Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, the oldest pub in England, said to have been established in 1189. Lastly, walk around its streets and take an obligatory photo with the 7-foot-tall statue of Robin Hood.

• Relax at Highfields Park
• Stroll around the Old Market Square
• Explore Nottingham Castle
• Visit Wollaton Hall
• Eat and drink at Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem 

Best Time to Visit: April to August

Photo by davidionut on Adobe Stock

York is one of the best cities in England to visit, thanks to its remarkable history. This is the perfect city for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and even horror geeks! This English city also has a tumultuous past: it was once a major port under the Viking rule, was destroyed during the Harrying of the North, and had a rocky economy during the Tudor period. Eventually, the city rose to prominence, thanks to the introduction of railways and the rise of chocolate manufacturers.

Given York ’s interesting history, you can enjoy a wide variety of activities here. Take part in a historical tour of York and visit ruins dating back to the Roman, Viking, and medieval times. On a pleasant spring morning, go around the city walls and appreciate the views. For a spine-chilling adventure, hop on a “ghost bus” and listen to urban legends and true horror stories about York. If you plan on visiting during winter, don’t miss the festive Christmas markets!

• Climb to the top of the tower of York Minster
• Walk around The Shambles
• Go on a River Ouse cruise
• Visit the JORVIK Viking Centre
• Join a ghost tour of York

10. Chester

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Located in Northwest England, Chester is one of the most picturesque cities in England. Additionally, it is a well-preserved walled city in the country, housing a number of medieval buildings and Victorian gardens. The city also played an important role during the 18th century’s Industrial Revolution and helped increase Chester’s overall wealth. 

As you explore Chester, find several black-and-white buildings, built during the height of the Black-and-White Revival. When visiting the city, don’t miss the majestic Chester Cathedral and hear a song from the local choir. Within its brick walls, find half-timbered houses and buildings, and medieval churches. Visit the town center and don’t forget to capture the timeless beauty of the Rows, a series of covered walkways that are entrances to different shops. Find traces of its Roman connections and see the ruins of what used to be the Chester Roman Amphitheatre. After visiting the amphitheater, rest at the Grosvenor Park or bring a couple of snacks for a leisurely picnic.

• Listen to the Chester Cathedral Choir
• Walk around the Chester City Walls
• Take photos of the Chester Rows
• Visit Chester Zoo
• Relax at Grosvenor Park

Best Time to Visit: July to August

Tips When Visiting Cities in England

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• Although English is the main language spoken, there are different accents that may confuse first-time visitors. The common accents you may encounter are Scottish, Yorkshire, Welsh, and Scouse.
• Cities in England are relatively safe and there’s a low risk of violent crime. Nonetheless, always be aware of your surroundings and never leave your things unattended.
• Take advantage of free museum days! These are normally Sundays and the first Fridays of the month. Additionally, enjoy free entry during the last few hours before closing time.
• England uses a Type G electrical socket, so make sure to bring the correct travel adapter or converter. 
• When using public transportation, invest in travel passes instead of buying single-journey tickets for every trip. You can save more, travel seamlessly, and save time instead of queueing to buy a ticket.
• Although the food in England is pretty expensive, you can save money by eating at local pubs. You can ask locals where the best cheap eats are around the city.
• Accommodation can be expensive, especially if booked at the last minute. To avoid paying a bigger amount, make sure to secure your hotel months ahead of your trip.
• In most places, giving tips is voluntary. If you received good service, the general tip is 10% of your bill. In addition, don’t forget to check if your bill includes a service charge.
• Driving a rental car? Make sure to always drive on the left. However, locals will recommend using public transportation since traffic can be unbearable especially during rush hour.
• When using the escalator in different cities in England, always stay on the right if you’re not in a hurry. The left side is for rushing commuters. 

Discover the Beauty of the Cities in England!

There’s definitely more to England than just visiting London! You can find several cities bursting with both historical and cultural heritage. This is also a great way to make the most out of your stay instead of focusing on one city. As you explore the cities in England, you’ll learn more about the country and what made it into one of the world’s most powerful nations today.

Visiting university cities like Cambridge and Oxford lets you in on the academic history of the country as well as seeing popular sites that you only used to see in films. Meanwhile, in York, get a deeper understanding of the history of the Vikings and see a grim yet fascinating side of England after listening to its urban legends and myths.

If there’s a country you plan on “city-hopping” at, consider England!

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The Top 20 Things to Do in England

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While many travelers coming to England spent their time in London, the country has a lot to offer outside the capital, from mountainous hiking to seaside walks to famous theaters. Whether you want to experience history and culture or simply enjoy England's delicious food and drinks, there's something to do for every type of traveler. Here are the top 20 things to do around England.

Take a Walking Tour of London

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The best way to see London is on foot. The British capital is very walkable, with many famous attractions within close proximity to the city center. Start in Parliament Square, where you can see Westminster Abbey , the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben . Visitors can also get a great photo of the Thames and the London Eye from Westminster Bridge. From there, it's a quick walk to Buckingham Palace or to Trafalgar Square, where you'll find the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery. Other nearby attractions include the Churchill War Rooms, Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus, and the Tate Modern , which can be found across the Thames on Southbank. If it's raining or if you have mobility issues, jump on one of the double-decker London buses or grab a ticket for the Hop On Hop Off London Bus Tours , which drive by many of the iconic sites.

Visit Stonehenge

Stonehenge is an iconic site for a reason, and its mysterious stones compel thousands of travelers every year. The Neolithic structure, a World Heritage Site, is easily accessible from London, either via car or day tour, and visitors will see the famous stone circle and ancient houses and a museum that details the area's history. It's impressive in itself, but history buffs should include stops at nearby Woodhenge, a historic burial ground, or Old Sarum, home to the ruins of a cathedral and castle, on their journey to Stonehenge. Book tickets for Stonehenge in advance online (look for an off-peak day to save money).

See a Play in Stratford-upon-Avon

Shakespeare's birthplace, Stratford-Upon-Avon, is filled with the legacy of the Bard, including his father's former home and Anne Hathaway's cottage. The Royal Shakespeare Company performs plays in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Swan Theatre, and it's a great treat to see one while in England. It's common for bigger-name actors, like Sir Ian McKellen, to appear in the plays, but you really can't go wrong with tickets to any local productions. The Royal Shakespeare Company also offers tours of the theaters, which take visitors behind the scenes. There is a special Family Fun Tour for kids to learn about putting on a Shakespeare play.

Stroll the Jurassic Coast

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While many visitors may be familiar with the iconic white cliffs of Dover, England's Jurassic Coast offers even more dramatic vistas. The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the English Channel from East Devon to Dorset , stretches 95 miles and reveals 185 million years of the Earth's history in its geology. It's well-known area for fossil hunting, and many of the rocks and fossils found along the coast date back to the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. Opt for a guided walk in Lyme Regis or Charmouth to scour for fossils yourself. The Museum of Jurassic Marine Life in Kimmeridge also hosts tours, which are a good way to learn about the region's history and experience the coastline firsthand. There are also several popular walking routes in Dorset, including Old Harry Rocks, which begins at Studland Bay, and a trek from Bowleaze Cove to Smuggler’s Inn.

Dance at Glastonbury

England is home to several famed music festivals, but its biggest—and most raucous —is Glastonbury . The five-day festival is held in Somerset on a private farm every June, featuring live music, theater, comedy, and more. Most festival-goers camp onsite, which can get pretty muddy. Tickets sell out very quickly, but Glastonbury is beloved for a reason. It attracts the biggest acts in music, from Paul McCartney to Beyonce to Coldplay, and it's the sort of thing you have to experience to believe. The festival welcomes all ages, although an adult must accompany those under 16.

Eat Seafood in Whitstable

Courtesy of Whitstable Oyster Co

The seaside town of Whitstable, located on the coast of Kent, hosts the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival each summer. Of course, you can chow down on delicious seafood there any time of year at one of its many restaurants. Look for The Lobster Shack, The Marine Hotel Restaurant, and Crab and Winkle to taste the local catches, or grab a table at The Whitstable Oyster Company , which serves up the best oysters in town. The restaurant has views of the beach and its own oyster beds, where the famous Whitstable oysters are harvested.

Watch Football in Manchester

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England's football (a.k.a. soccer) culture runs deep, but it's powerful in Manchester. The northern city is home to several teams , including Manchester United and Manchester City. While it can be challenging to get tickets to Premier League matches, it's a bucket list experience for many travelers, especially if you're a soccer fan. Snag tickets to one of the matches at Etihad Stadium or Old Trafford while in Manchester, or head into one of the city's boisterous sports bars to cheer alongside the locals. Some favorites include Tib Street Tavern Manchester and Cafe Football, which is located in Old Trafford.

Bathe in Thermal Waters in Bath

Bath was once home to the Roman Baths, which still exist in ruins, and today visitors can partake in the healing waters of the region. The Thermae Bath Spa , which has a rooftop pool with views of the cathedral, makes for a relaxing day out. There are two mineral baths, and each session lasts two hours. The pools are only for visitors 16 and over, so be sure to find a babysitter if you're traveling with kids. To take advantage of your trip to Bath, book into The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, which is located in the town's famed Royal Crescent, and tour the Roman Baths, which are part historic ruin and part museum.

Punt in Cambridge

If you've never been punting, Cambridge is a good place to learn. The River Cam stretches through the center of the university town, and there are various places to hire a boat along the river. Look for companies like Let's Go Punting , which takes visitors on 50-minute private or shared punting boat tours between Magdalene College and Silver Street Bridge. Scudamore's is another popular option for tours, and the company also offers champagne and afternoon tea tours, where you can drink while your guide steers you down the river. Prefer to do it yourself? Rent a boat for a few hours and learn the art of guiding a vessel with a pole.

Explore History in York

Hop on a train two hours north from London to discover York, a walled city that the Romans founded. It's home to a 13th-century Gothic cathedral called the York Minster (be sure to climb to the top of the tower for some serious views) and the Shambles, a very narrow medieval street with overhanging buildings. It's rumored that the Shambles inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter, although you won't find any wizarding shops in the area. York has some nice pubs and tea rooms, and its downtown has great shopping. Be sure to take a stroll around the city walls , which extend for two miles and are open daily to the public from 8 a.m. until dusk.

Tour Windsor Castle

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Windsor Castle, home of Queen Elizabeth II, is one of Britain's most iconic landmarks and its proximity to London makes it a must-do on any itinerary. The castle welcomes visitors year-round for paid tours of the castle's rooms and grounds, including St. George's Chapel, where Harry and Meghan got married. Timed tickets can be booked online in advance. Check the opening times, which can vary throughout the year, and be sure to give yourself enough time in Windsor to tour the castle and explore the surrounding town. Tours of Windsor Castle are self-guided with a multimedia guide, and it's a great excursion for kids and adults. The castle is also fully accessible and offers discounts for guests with disabilities.

Drive Through the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds spans nearly 800 square miles, containing numerous quaint villages and expanses of rolling green hills. The area is one of England's most beautiful and it's best experienced with a car, which allows travelers to visit several towns in one swoop. Some of the favorite villages include Cheltenham, Stroud, Broadway, Burford, and Bourton on Water, which has been called the Venice of the Cotswolds. All of them are equally charming and filled with small shops, tea rooms, and cafes, as well as historic hotels and B&Bs. Stop by one of the National Trust properties, like Newark Park, Chedworth Roman Villa, or Buscot Park, and be sure to spend a few hours exploring Blenheim Palace.

Surf in Cornwall

Located on the southwestern tip of England, Cornwall draws surfers worldwide to its scenic beaches. The coast, dubbed the Cornish Riviera, has hundreds of beaches, several of which are famous for catching a wave. Head to Fistral Beach in Newquay or Gwithian Beach in Hayle to spot the experts, or rent a board to try your hand at the sport. If you want some lessons, there are numerous surf schools for beginners in Cornwall, including the Fistral Beach Surf School, which is open year-round. While in Cornwall , don't miss the Eden Project, the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, and Pendennis Castle.

Hike the Lake District

The Lake District, located in Cumbria, is one of England's most picturesque destinations, welcoming travelers to its mountains, lakes, and villages year-round. It's especially compelling for hikers, who will find many trails and routes through the national park and surrounding areas. Summit Scafell Pike or trek the Roman High Street Circuit, which extends along an old Roman road. Those who want a little help learning the routes can join a guided walk , which the Lake District offers from April through October. If you want a real challenge, go for the Three Peaks Challenge , which includes Scafell Pike along with Scotland's Ben Nevis and Wales' Snowdon.

Trail the Beatles in Liverpool

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Liverpool, a city in northwest England, located at the meeting point between the River Mersey and the Irish Sea, is best known as the birthplace of the Beatles. And while the city has lots to see and do, it's the Fab Four who really draw visitors. Visit the Cavern Club, a venue that once saw the band onstage, or hop on their Magical Mystery Tour , which stops by the musicians' former homes, Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields. There's also the Liverpool Beatles Museum and the annual Liverpool Beatles Week, which takes place in August. The Hard Days Night Hotel is the world's only Beatles-inspired hotel, and guests can book themed suites or see live music in the lounge. If you have time between Beatles-inspired excursions, be sure to also stop by the Tate Liverpool, the Museum of Liverpool, Liverpool Cathedral, and the Merseyside Maritime Museum.

Dine in Bray

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Bray, a small village located just outside London on the Thames, is home to several of England's best restaurants, including Heston Blumenthal's The Fat Duck , which has three Michelin stars. It can be tricky to get a reservation to the pricy Fat Duck (although it's worth it), but visitors have plenty of other options. The Waterside Inn, The Crown, and The Hind's Head, which Blumenthal also runs, are delicious and slightly easier to book. If you want to stay in town, The Waterside Inn has several rooms, or head to nearby Maidenhead, situated alongside the river. It's a must-visit for all foodies, but history buffs will also appreciate the old buildings and small-town charm in Bray.

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Cliveden House

Cliveden House

Afternoon tea is one of those British things you can't—and shouldn't—avoid while in England. Most hotels offer a version of afternoon tea, especially in London, and it's also traditional in various tea rooms around the country. But if you're going to partake in an afternoon of milky tea and scones, you should reserve a table at the best possible venue. The historic Cliveden House Hotel , found outside London on National Trust gardens, is just the spot. It's a luxury experience best enjoyed with added champagne (although kids are also welcome). It's held in the hotel's Great Hall on Sundays and in the Cliveden Dining Room Monday through Saturday, and it's best to make a reservation well in advance. Don't be afraid to ask for your leftovers. The hotel will be happy to box up any extra treats later, as is common with most high-end afternoon teas.

Visit the Real Downtown Abbey

While Downton Abbey isn't a real place, the castle in the beloved TV series (and movie) is. Highclere Castle, located in Winchester, was built in 1679 and is now home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon. Highclere, which has expansive, beautiful grounds and gardens, welcomes visitors at different points throughout the year. The visiting times can vary, so check the online calendar for the best time to explore the castle and look for upcoming special events held at Highclere throughout the year. The castle is best accessed by car (it has parking for visitors), but you can take a taxi from the nearby Newbury train station, which connects with London. Don't miss Highclere's tea rooms, which are great for a snack after your tour.

Tour Canterbury Cathedral

You could spend a lot of time touring historic cathedrals while in England, but the most famous is Canterbury Cathedral. Part of a World Heritage Site, the cathedral, located in Canterbury, was founded in 597 and rebuilt in the 11th century. It's the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury, who leads the Church of England, and offers services weekly. You don't have to be religious to appreciate the impressive structure's history and architecture, however. A million people per year visit the building to see everything from St. Gabriel’s Chapel to The Great Cloister.

Take a Ride on Brighton Pier

Brighton Pier first opened on the English seaside in 1899, spanning 1,722 feet over the water. It's hosted visitors and locals ever since, with a particular draw for families. Look for rides like the Turbo Coaster and the Booster, or head to the Palace of Fun to win a prize at one of the games. Brighton is only an hour from London by train, making a great day trip from the city, and the beaches are especially welcoming during the summer months. If you like music, head to Brighton in May when it puts on The Great Escape, a music festival that takes over all area venues.

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 25 Best Things to Do in England

25 Best Things to Do in England

The name “England” was first taken from Englaland, which is derived from “land of the Angles”. The Angles were a Germanic tribe that resided in England during the Early Middle Ages.

Currently, the population of England stands at just over 53 million, most of which is located around the London area, London being the largest city in Europe in terms of populace. England also hosts over 600 miles of fascinating coastline in addition to a number of the world’s top tourist attractions.

The country is divided into nine separate regions, each of which has its own unique culture, history, and personality – from the charming villages of Cornwall and beautiful rolling hills in the Cotswolds, to the striking coastline in the North East and the bustling city life in the capital.

It really does make the perfect destination for those who wish to pay a quick visit or for those who are intent on savoring the experience over the longer term.

But let’s get on with the best things to do in England !

1. London: Chinatown

At the East End of London, during the beginning of the 20th century, many Chinese immigrants flocked to London and set about creating businesses as a way to cater to the throngs of Chinese sailors who frequented the docklands area.

Nevertheless, due to the World War II Blitz, a large inflow of immigrants from Hong Kong, and a growth in popularity of Chinese cuisine, many Chinese restaurants opened elsewhere.

Today, the finest Chinese cuisines can be found just off Shaftesbury Avenue.

2. Cambridge: Cambridge University

Cambridge University, which was founded in 1209, represents the fourth-oldest surviving university in the world (the oldest being the University of Karueein, Fez, Morocco).

These days, it is a collegiate university and is comprised of 31 colleges together with some 18,000 students. The university was first established when a group of scholars left the University of Oxford after having been involved in a dispute with the local townspeople.

Of particular note is Trinity College, with its exquisitely carved chapel, a masterpiece of architecture in the English Baroque style.

3. Cornwall: The Eden Project

The Eden Project in Cornwall represents a number of environmental and social projects all under the auspices of sustainable growth.

Visitors can view a variety of beautiful landscapes in addition to numerous works of art. It also plays home to regular music events and hosts a botanical and conservation research division.

The Eden Project is far more than a sizable horticultural theme park. It is a cultural revelation whereby visitors can learn through interactive displays together with detailed information given throughout the 10 hectares of natural wonder.

4. Liverpool: Maritime Mercantile City

Visitors to Liverpool’s Maritime Mercantile City can venture throughout the docklands and historic center.

The area relates the story of UK development throughout the preceding centuries, including the mass movement of emigrants to the United States, immigrants from northern Europe, and of the slave trade. Maritime Mercantile City is also the home to significant civic, commercial, and public buildings such as St. George’s Plateau.

Based on the recent drive for modernization, however, the area has been bestowed with the accolade of an endangered World Heritage Site, being one of only two such sites within all of Europe.

5. Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and Gloucestershire: Malvern Hills and Commons

Located in the counties of Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and Gloucestershire, the Malvern Hills and Commons provide for 3,000 acres of spectacular natural beauty.

The igneous and metamorphic rocks are regarded as among the oldest within Great Britain, and are dated at 680 million years.

To gain the best vantage point, it’s prudent to climb the Worcester Beacon, the summit of which stands at 1,394 ft. (424 m).

6. Northern England: Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall was once a defensive fortification built by the Romans from AD 122 onwards under the advocacy of Emperor Hadrian.

The wall stretches from Ravenglass on the west coast to Wallsend on the east coast. The wall served not only as a military fortification but also as a point for levy taxation and a customs post.

Visitors to the area can still view a significant portion of the wall, given that much of it was reconstructed during the 19th century by John Clayton.

7. Durham: Durham Castle

Durham Castle, which was erected during the 11th century, was initially a strong-point for King Norman, and served as a way for him to display his power and prestige throughout the northern regions of the country.

The castle is now occupied by University College, Durham, but it still offers a fine example of an early bailey and motte style castle.

It is open to the general public, albeit through pre-booked guided tours. The castle sits atop a hill in the Durham Peninsula and affords beautiful views over the River Wear and across to Durham Cathedral.

8. York: York Minster

Considered as one of the finest cathedrals in all of Great Britain, York Minster is likewise the largest in Northern Europe.

Among the highlights are the chapter house and the Gothic nave, together with the beautiful stained glass windows which date back to medieval times.

The Five Sisters Window stands out, stretching to over 52 ft. (16 m) in height.

York Minster was originally constructed in the 14th century as a way to demonstrate a clear Christian presence within England and far beyond.

9. London: The British Museum

The British Museum, which was established in 1753, plays host to numerous permanent collections of artifacts which number over 8 million pieces in all.

It holds some of the most prestigious and comprehensive collections hailing from every continent around the globe.

Doors open daily from 10 a.m. and close at 5.30 p.m. and 8.30 p.m. on Fridays. Entry is free of charge.

10. London: Royal Observatory, Greenwich

The Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London, has played a global role in the history of astronomy and navigation.I

t was established in 1675 by King Charles II with the key function being to “rectify the motions of the heavens and the places of the fixed stars and in order to find the desired longitude of places in order to master the art of navigation.”

With its vantage point overlooking the River Thames in central London, it makes for an excellent tourist attraction on a year-round basis.

The observatory is one of the features of Maritime Greenwich and was bestowed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.

11. London: Soho

Soho is known for its live entertainment, opulent cuisines, and of course for the pulsating nightlife.

Arguably, Soho is London’s center for gallant celebrations, be that music, art, literature, theater, fashion, food, or film.

Furthermore, for those who enjoy meandering around little quirky shops and then relaxing in the most fashionable and luxurious of hotels, Soho is the place to be. It boasts the most “creative” square mile in all of London.

12. Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire: William Shakespeare’s Home

For all those with a passion for literature, there’s no doubt that a thrilling experience is to be had upon visiting the home of Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire.

The sizable living quarters have been surprisingly well-preserved over the centuries since his birth in 1564, and you can still witness various remnants pertaining to the life of this outstanding poet, whom many regard as the most celebrated writer in the world of English literature.

13. Warwick, Warwickshire: Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is a medieval castle which dates back to 1068, and was built by William the Conqueror not long after the Norman Conquest. Originally, it was created using wooden motte and bailey, though it was then rebuilt in the 12th century using stone.

Until the early 17th century, it was utilized as a stronghold, after which it was gifted by King James I to Sir Fulke Greville and converted into a country dwelling.

It remained under the Greville family name until The Tussaud Group purchased it in 1978, at which point it was developed into a tourist attraction.

The castle is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

14. Cumbria: Lake District National Park

The Lake District National Park is frequently referred to as The Lakes and is famed due to the beautiful lakes, mountains, and surrounding forests.

It is associated with great writers such as the 19th Century poet William Wordsworth who would often meander the foothills.

Aside from the amazing landscapes, The Lakes are also recognized on account of the fact that the area plays host to the longest and deepest lake in England. Wastwater is 3 miles (4.6 km) long and 258 feet (79 m) deep.

15. London: Madam Tussaud’s Wax Museum

Madam Tussaud’s is a famous waxworks museum created by the wax sculptress Marie Tussaud.

The first Madam Tussaud’s museum, which opened in 1884, is located on Allsop Street, Marleybone, London, though there are now a variety of other branches within different cities around the globe.

The museum hosts lifelike figures, including royal people, film stars, sports stars, models, and infamous murderers.

A large section of the basement, known as The Chamber of Horrors, features historical characters from the French Revolution such as Robespierre, Marat, King Louis XVI, and Marie Antoinette, all of whom were modeled by Ms. Tussaud herself upon their death or execution.

The museum’s opening times vary depending on the season but in general the doors are open between 9.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. Monday through Sunday.

16. Cornwall: Lizard Peninsula

Lizard Peninsula is a peninsula in the southern part of Cornwall.

It is recognized for its rare botanical specimens and geological formations and belongs to Cornwall’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. According to some researchers, the name “Lizard” is taken from the Cornish name “Lys Ardh”, which literally translates to “high court”.

In previous centuries, the peninsula was frequently referred to as “Graveyard of Ships” on account of the number of vessels that came to a devastating end upon the coastal rocks.

17. East Devon to Dorset: Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site

Covering a distance of 95 miles (153 km.) and stretching along the coastline of the English Channel between East Devon and Dorset, the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site offers a unique insight into the Earth’s geological foundation.

Take a walk through time and marvel at the variety of rock formations which span through three of Earth’s time zones: Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous, 185 million years in all.

18. Gloucestershire: The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds, which mainly reside in the county of Gloucestershire, are a range of rolling hills that are dotted with small attractive towns and villages.

The name “Cotswold” comes from the stone, which is Jurassic limestone.

The Cotswolds are approximately 25 miles (40 km) wide and 90 miles (145 km) long.

Throughout the Middle Ages, it became a lucrative route for wool traders, and in turn, the entire area prospered. The highest point in the area is Cleeve Hill which stands at 1,083 ft. (330 m), and is just north of the large spa town of Cheltenham.

19. Woodstock, Oxfordshire: Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace represents the principal residence for the dukes of Marlborough.

Built in the English Baroque style, it’s the only non-episcopal non-royal country home in England to have been bestowed with the title of palace.

The home, which is one of the largest in England, was constructed between 1705 and 1722, and in 1987 it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The palace was the birthplace and ancestral home of arguably the most famed of British Prime Ministers – Sir Winston Churchill. The landscaped gardens are also notable, having been redesigned by such dignified landscapers as Capability Brown.

The palace opened to the general public in 1950. It closes between mid-December and mid-February but otherwise is open every day from 10.30 a.m. until 5.30 p.m.

20. London: Natural History Museum

Until 1992, the Natural History Museum in London was known as the British Museum.

It plays host to over 70 million life and earth science specimens, and visitors can witness collections which are related to zoology, mineralogy, entomology, and paleontology.

It is one of three museums on South Kensington’s Exhibition Road, and a number of the collections possess great scientific value such as specimens that were collected by the preeminent English naturalist and geologist Charles Darwin.

Doors open between 10 a.m. and 5.50 p.m. Monday through Sunday and admission is free of charge.

21. Berkshire: Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle, one of the British royal family’s residences, is located in the county of Berkshire.

It was originally built during the 11th century, not long after the Norman invasion led by William the Conqueror. Ever since Henry I came to the thrown in 1100, the castle has been utilized by succeeding monarchs, and represents the longest-occupied palace in all of Europe.

Originally, the castle was built to ensure Norman dominance within and around the outskirts of London, as well as to oversee what was then a particularly strategically important part of the River Thames.

It is now the favored weekend residence of the current British regent, Queen Elizabeth II, and also serves as a venue for state visits and as popular tourist attraction.

22. Pilton, Somerset: Glastonbury Festival

The Glastonbury Festival is a five-day music festival which is centered around raising funds for good causes such as Greenpeace, Oxfam, and WaterAid.

It has taken place almost every year since 1981 and attracts approximately 175,000 people making it the largest greenfield festival in the world.

Over the years, the festival has witnessed such favorites as Oasis, Elvis Costello, The Cure, Radiohead, Sir Paul McCartney, Rod Steward, and David Bowie.

Tickets for Glastonbury Festival are generally on sale from October for the forth-coming year, and the festival takes place during the last week of June.

23. Salisbury, Wiltshire: Salisbury Cathedral

Salisbury Cathedral, otherwise known as the Cathedral Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, was constructed in the 13th century.

It is a leading example of early English architecture, and possesses the tallest church spire in the entire country which stands at 404 ft. (123 m).

The church tower is open to the public and visitors can view the rather spectacular wooden innards of the ancient spire.

The cathedral also plays home to the world’s oldest working clock which was crafted in 1386, and the best surviving copy of the Magna Carta (there are four original copies in all) is safely held within the cathedral walls.

24. Canterbury, Kent: Canterbury Cathedral

Arguably the most popular of Christian structures within England, Canterbury Cathedral is the home to the Archbishop of Canterbury, the principal leader and senior bishop of the Church of England as well as the symbolic head of the global Anglican Communion.

The cathedral was founded in 597 and reconstructed between 1070 and 1077. Further renovation occurred in 1174 when it was bestowed with a more Gothic style at which point it housed pilgrims as they ventured to worship at the shrine of Thomas Becket, who was the Archbishop of Canterbury until the year 1170 when he was unceremoniously murdered.

25. Wiltshire: Stonehenge

Stonehenge in Wiltshire is considered to be among the most remarkable sites within the entire modern world.

The prehistoric monument, which comprises stones that reach up to 30 ft. (9 m) in height and weigh up to 25 tons (22.6 metric tons), is thought to have been constructed around 3,000 to 2,000 BC, though the exact dates remain open to question.

The site was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1986, and although it is not entirely clear as to its true purpose, a number of studies have suggested that Stonehenge was utilized as a burial ground by Neolithic and Bronze Age peoples.

25 Best Things to Do in England:

• London: Chinatown
• Cambridge: Cambridge University
• Cornwall: The Eden Project
• Liverpool: Maritime Mercantile City
• Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and Gloucestershire: Malvern Hills and Commons
• Northern England: Hadrian’s Wall
• Durham: Durham Castle
• York: York Minster
• London: The British Museum
• London: Royal Observatory, Greenwich
• London: Soho
• Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire: William Shakespeare’s Home
• Warwick, Warwickshire: Warwick Castle
• Cumbria: Lake District National Park
• London: Madam Tussaud’s Wax Museum
• Cornwall: Lizard Peninsula
• East Devon to Dorset: Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site
• Gloucestershire: The Cotswolds
• Woodstock, Oxfordshire: Blenheim Palace
• London: Natural History Museum
• Berkshire: Windsor Castle
• Pilton, Somerset: Glastonbury Festival
• Salisbury, Wiltshire: Salisbury Cathedral
• Canterbury, Kent: Canterbury Cathedral
• Wiltshire: Stonehenge

15 of the best things to do in England

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

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

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

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

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

1. Walk the magnificent medieval walls of York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Hit the world’s greatest museums in London

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

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

5. Cycle through the heart of England 

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

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

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

7. Surf the waves of Cornwall's wild coastline

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

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

8. Take a sea-sprayed train ride in Devon

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

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

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

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

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

10. Get lost in the lanes of Brighton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Eat fish and chips on the harbor at Whitby

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

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

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

15. Embrace Beatlemania in Liverpool

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

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

This article was first published June 2022 and updated March 2024

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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.

10 Best Day Trips From London

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Politics latest: MSP who could decide Humza Yousaf's fate appears to reveal price for her support

Scotland's first minister says he will fight a vote in his leadership and is "very confident" of winning. Listen to this week's episode of the Electoral Dysfunction podcast while you scroll through the latest updates.

Friday 26 April 2024 18:00, UK

• Yousaf tells Sky News he'll 'fight' vote of no-confidence and is optimistic of winning
• MSP who could decide his fate seems to have named price for her support
• Connor Gillies:  First minister must reset relations with very people he's burned bridges with
• Explained: How did we get here - and what happens next?
• Coming up on Sunday: PM sits down with Trevor Phillips
• Tap here to follow Electoral Dysfunction
• Sam Coates explains why the local elections matter
• Live reporting by Charlotte Chelsom-Pill

Rishi Sunak  sits down this Sunday with Trevor Phillips for a wide-ranging interview ahead of the local elections.

With the Rwanda bill becoming law this week and the PM announcing a commitment to increase defence spending, there's been plenty to talk about.

You can watch it in full from 8.30am on Sunday .

Trevor will also be joined by Labour's shadow health secretary Wes Streeting .

Embattled Humza Yousaf has told Sky News he will not resign as Scotland's first minister.

Pressure has been building on  the SNP leader  after he tore up the power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens - prompting a no-confidence motion in his leadership and a threatened knife-edge vote.

However, Mr Yousaf, on a visit to Dundee that was arranged at short notice after he pulled out of a speech in Glasgow, insisted he was getting on with the job and accused the opposition of "playing games".

He said he would be writing to the leaders of all Scottish political parties to seek talks on making a minority government work.

He told Sky's Scotland correspondent Connor Gillies : "I intend absolutely to fight that vote of no confidence, I've got every intention of winning that vote of no confidence.

"And let me say to the opposition for minority government to work in the interest of the people of Scotland also requires the opposition to act in good faith."

Humza Yousaf's future as first minister is hanging in the balance ahead of a motion of no confidence next week.

Now, as leader of a minority government, his fate may be hanging on just one vote - that of a former SNP leadership rival. 

We take a look at how:

The numbers

In the Scottish parliament, the SNP has 63 seats out of 129 , two short of an outright majority;

The Conservatives have  31;

Labour has 22;

The Greens have  seven;

The Liberal Democrats have four;

The Alba Party has one ;

There is also one presiding officer Alison Johnstone, who is both an MSP and Scotland's equivalent of the Commons speaker.

How the numbers are expected to fall

The motion of no confidence was brought by the Scottish Conservatives.

The Greens, Labour and the Lib Dems have all said they are backing the motion.

That would translate into 64 votes against the first minister versus 63 SNP votes.

So the one Alba vote is expected to be key.

How it may all come down to one ... Ash Regan

Once an SNP leadership rival to Mr Yousaf, Ash Regan defected to Alex Salmond's Alba Party last October. 

If she backs Mr Yousaf then that would mean both sides have 64 votes.

Ms Johnstone would then be expected to vote in favour of the status quo, so the first minister would survive.

But if Ms Regan votes against Mr Yousaf, then the opposition parties will have 65 votes against the SNP's 63, and the first minister would lose.

He wouldn't be compelled to resign in this situation, but he'd be under huge pressure to step aside.

More to come

And remember, Scottish Labour have lodged a separate motion of no confidence in the Scottish government. 

Alba have said it won't back that motion.

Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf is battling to save his job as he faces a knife-edge no-confidence vote.

The SNP leader triggered a crisis at Holyrood after he dramatically brought the power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens to an end.

The backlash has plunged Mr Yousaf's future into doubt, although party colleagues insist he will not resign.

How did we get here?

The Bute House Agreement - signed back in 2021 and named after the first minister's official residence in Edinburgh - brought the Green Party into government for the first time anywhere in the UK.

It gave the SNP a majority at Holyrood when the votes of its MSPs were combined with those of the seven Green members, and also made Green co-leaders Patrick Harvie and Lorna Slater junior ministers.

Without it, the SNP would need to have operated as a minority administration at Holyrood.

What caused the relationship to sour?

There had been mounting tensions between the largest party at Holyrood and their junior partners in government.

The Greens were angered at the SNP-led administration's recent decision to ditch a key climate change target.

That, combined with the decision to pause the prescription of new puberty blockers to under-18s at at Scotland's only gender clinic, resulted in the Greens announcing they would have a vote on the future of the power-sharing deal. 

Read more here:

The 2 May local elections will see more than 2,600 seats at stake across 107 English councils.

Labour's Sadiq Khan and Andy Burnham are among the 10 mayors up for re-election.  

Those in Blackpool South will also be voting for their next MP after ex-Tory Scott Benton broke Commons lobbying rules, triggering a by-election.  

With the Conservatives lagging behind Labour in the polls, the outcome will offer some insight on how voters in England and Wales feel ahead of the general election.

On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by deputy political editor Sam Coates to discuss why the elections are so important for the prime minister's future and where the key political backgrounds are.

By Daniel Dunford , senior data journalist

There might not be a general election just yet, but there are important votes that will define how the areas around us are run for the next four years. 

See what's happening where you are here:

With the local elections less than a week away, deputy political editor Sam Coates explains why they matter and what they might tell us about the upcoming general election.

Ash Regan - the MSP who could decide the future of Humza Yousaf - has appeared to name her price for her support in next week's no-confidence vote.

She has said, in a letter to Alba Party members, that investment in the Grangemouth refinery will be a key condition of her backing the first minister.

The refinery is currently due to shut as early as next year and move to being an import and export terminal.

Alba has launched a a campaign to sustain jobs at the refinery.

"A sign of good faith would be a significant government investment, reinforcing the campaign to save the Grangemouth refinery from closure," she says in her letter.

"I am requesting the undertaking to produce such an initiative in the early course.

"I am hopeful that the first minister will commit to such an initiative in the near future as a sign of our shared dedication to Scotland's welfare."

Ms Regan was once part of the SNP and ran in the contest to succeed Nicola Sturgeon as leader last year, the contest Mr Yousaf won.

She defected to Alex Salmond's Alba Party in October. 

The battle for a town that no one there wants.

Sky News is reporting from Grimsby in the run-up to the general election as one of its Target Towns - a key constituency prized by both Conservatives and Labour - Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes.

But it turns out that Grimsby doesn't really want them.

It hasn't always been a town doused in apathy. 

In 2016, 70% of people here voted to leave the EU - one of the highest results in the country - and in the 2019 election, the constituency turned Tory for the first time since the Second World War.

But five years on, polling by Sky News found that since then, the number of people saying they "almost never" trust the British government to place the needs of the nation above the interests of their own party has nearly doubled - from 26% to 49%.

It's a stark but bleak view. Voters described both leaders as uninspiring and uninteresting.

When asked what they make of the current prime minister, words like "weak" and "performative" were used. 

Voters couldn't make their minds up about the Labour leader, saying they were unsure about him or his policies.

The lack of a clear dividing line between the two parties could be a problem in the general election, especially as both parties have been trying to show a bit more leg this week ahead of a fully-fledged election campaign.

Labour has shown a hint of more radical policies, with their announcement on aiming to nationalise railways within five years. 

But have they waited a bit too long to impress the people of Grimsby?

The Conservatives ratified their Rwanda policy into law, but voters here weren't hugely enthused by that either, with one member of the audience tonight proclaiming they care much more about housing and the environment. 

They asked - why is the centre of political debate about Rwanda and a policy we don't really care about?

Apathy might override this election.

By  Jennifer Scott , political reporter

Voters in Grimsby - one of Sky News's election Target Towns - have been offering their views on politics, politicians and "broken promises".

The electoral battle in Grimsby and Cleethorpes,  the Target Towns , will be fierce. Labour will need an 11.7 point swing to win this newly-merged constituency back from the Conservatives.

In 2019, residents in Grimsby voted Tory for the first time since the end of the Second World War. The old Cleethorpes constituency was always more of a bellwether, having voted Conservative since 2010.

However, it has shed some of its rural, Conservative-voting residents in the merger.

Speaking on the  Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge , small business owner Shannon said she might not vote in the next general election later this year as she "just can't trust anything anybody says".

She said she has felt this way since Brexit - something Grimsby was overwhelmingly in support of - because "we were promised 'x' and 'y' and it hasn't happened, so I'm just totally disengaged from it".

Asked whether local MPs on the panel - Conservative Lia Nici and Labour's Melanie Onn - could change her mind, Shannon said "possibly", but reiterated how let down local people feel.

"We're promised a lot, but it's never delivered," she said. "Talk of things happening... and then it doesn't happen and people are just fed up... have been told this is what we're going to get, but it doesn't actually happen. And that's why people have just lost faith."

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