10 ABSOLUTE BEST CITIES TO VISIT IN THE UK (TRAVEL TIPS AND MAP)

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Written By Sara Green

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This post is about the best cities to visit in the UK

The United Kingdom has a rich and vibrant history which makes it’s cities some of the most interesting places to visit in the world.

In this guide to the 10 best cities to visit in the UK, I’m sharing the spectacular places of my home nation. Whether you’re interested in world class museums, stunning architecture, art or music the UKs cities has it all.

There are so many great cities throughout the 4 nations of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland it can be difficult to decide which cities to visit, especially if you only have a short amount of time.

These are the top 10 cities to visit in the UK that I think are worth your time when visiting. As a Brit, I’ve spend alot of time in each of these cities over the years and they all have fantastic things to offer.

For each city I will break down what the main attractions are that are must visits as well as a few extras that if you have time it’s worth seeing. I’ve also included the time you will probably need in each city.

 

Planning your trip? Use my favourite resources!

🏨 Accommodation : I recommend Booking.com
✈️ Flights : for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner
🚗 Rental Car : I recommend Rental Cars
🛡️ Travel Insurance : for the best deals I rely on HeyMondo

 
 
 

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Before we get into the 10 best cities in the UK to visit I have a map to share with you showing where each of the cities is located so you can begin to understand the geography of the UK. The UK is a pretty small island and there are great transport links around the country so it’s pretty easy to get around. You could hire a car to get around if you wanted which would give you a little more flexibility. I always hire a car through RentalCars.com as they provide fantastic service, there’s no hidden extra charges and I can cancel or amend the booking until the day before.

There are also many day trips from London where you can visit many of these cities if you wanted to keep London as a base whilst in the UK and take day trips to places such as Bath.

 
 

These are the best cities in the UK that are most worth a visit

1) London

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London is top of most peoples best places in the UK. In fact many people visit the UK and only visit London. There are so many other amazing places to visit in the UK but for now lets look at why London is top of this list.

The capital of the UK is a thriving metropolitan city in southeast England, on the banks of the River Thames. London is the home to the Royal family, the government and the countrys financial centre.

It is filled with elegant architecture, iconic landmarks, and a vibrant cultural scene. If it’s your first time visiting London, you may want to go on a bus tour on one of London’s iconic double-decker buses. This will help you get your bearings and see sights such as Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, the London Eye and Big Ben.

There is a wonderful food scene in London which showcases the diversity of Londons population. From delicious ethic street food, world class cuisine in famous Michelin star restaurants and traditional British food in local pubs, London has it all. You can read all about the best British foods you should try when in the UK here.

There is amazing shopping in London. Some of the world famous department stores are a joy to visit including Harrods, Hamleys, Liberty London and Fortnum and Mason. There is Oxford Street which is the worlds largest shopping street. You can find incredible markets all over London from Portabello Road, Carnaby, Borough Market.

London is also home to the West End theatre district, offering some of the best musicals and plays. Make sure you leave time to visit some of London’s world-class museums where several of the permanent collections are free.

London also has some beautiful green spaces that make you forget you’re in the middle of a bustling city. Hyde Park, St James Park and Regent Park are all great places to escape the noise of the city.

Don’t miss : Buckingham Palace (including Changing of the Guard), Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral, London Eye, Thames Cruise

Nice to see : Covent Garden, Hyde Park, Greenwich, Harrods, Piccadilly Circus, British Museum, Churchill War Rooms, Kew Gardens, Borough Market, Southbank, National Gallery, Leicester Square, Madame Tussauds

How much time do you need : You can just about see the major sights with just one day in London. However, to really get the most from your London trip I’d recommend at least 3-4 days so you can really see alot of what London has to offer.

Where to stay : Best areas to stay in London

LEARN MORE : Best Things to do in London | Bucketlist Experiences

 
 

2) Bath

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Bath, located in Somerset in south west Enland, is a UNESCO world heritage site known for it’s Roman ruins. It has been a well-being destination since Roman times and the Bath waters continue to attract visitors today.

The city of Bath grew around the ancient Roman baths and these days you can still sample the waters at the ancient Roman baths or the thoroughly modern Thermae Bath Spa, boasting the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain you can bathe in.

Bath is just under a 1.5-hour train ride from London and there are many day trips you can take from London to Bath. This one includes a stop off at the historic Stonehenge too. Many of Bath’s iconic sights such as the Circus and the Royal Crescent have become famous due to TV and film. Many scenes from the period drama Bridgerton were filmed in Bath as well as scenes in The Duchess and Vanity Fair. You’ll be able to see where Jane Austen took her inspiration from and find out more about this former famous resident at the Jane Austen Centre.

Make sure you sample a traditional Bath bun pastry during your stay.

Don’t miss : Bath Abbey (the Tower Tour gives spectacular views over the city), Roman Baths, The Circus, Royal Crescent Park, Pulteney Bridge

Nice to see : The Jane Austen Centre, Thermae Bath Spa, a river cruise, No 1 Royal Crescent Museum, Royal Victoria Park

How much time do you need : You can see the main sights of Bath in around half a day. This makes London an incredibly popular day trip from London.

What top attractions are a must-see in Bath?

The must-see attractions in Bath are:

See all must-see sights in Bath

 
 

UK GUIDEBOOKS

Lonely Planet Great Britain Guidebook is a comprehensive guide that extensively covers all the country has to offer, with recommendations for both popular and lesser-known experiences.

52 Great British Weekends is a great book showcasing 52 weekends of the best the UK has to offer.

 

3) Edinburgh

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Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and a very popular city to visit. There are two distinct parts of the city the historic Old Town and New Town which has a modern vibe full of modern shops, restaurants and cafes.

Perched on top Castle Rock is the imposing Edinburgh Castle overlooking the entire city. The castle is one of Europe’s oldest fortified places and is a must visit when in Edinburgh. The panoramic views of the city below are nothing short of breathtaking.

You should take a leisurely stroll along the Royal Mile, where medieval architecture meets modern-day shops. The Royal Mile goes right through the centre of Edinburgh's Old Town, connecting the city's most significant landmarks. It is often busy with tourists and locals alike. The street is full of bustling shops, historical attractions and wonderful street performances.

If you’re up for a bit of a hike you can head up to Arthur's Seat for a bird's-eye view of Edinburgh. Climbing the extinct volcano is a short but strenuous journey that a physical challenge with the reward of the spectacular views of the cityscape below.

Edinburgh has a pretty dark past that you can learn more about by exploring it’s creepy kirkyards and a fascinating underground street. You can book a guided tour that takes you beneath the streets of Edinburgh's Old Town into a dimly lit space that many consider to be haunted.

Edinburgh is also home to a number of art galleries, a zoo with the UK’s only giant pandas and the National Museum of Scotland.

Scotlands capital is also known for its many festivals - don’t miss the world-class Edinburgh Festival Fringe if you’re visiting in August and the famous Hogmanay at New Year.

Don’t miss : Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, the Royal Mile, National Museum of Scotland

Nice to see : Holyrood Place, Royal Yacht Britannia, Royal Botanic Gardens, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, St Giles Cathedral, Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh Zoo

How much time do you need : Edinburgh is quite a small city so it’s possible to see the main sights in just one day. For a slightly less rushed time in Edinburgh and to be able to get a bit more of a feel for the city I recommend 2-3 days in Edinburgh.

 
 

4) York

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York boasts more attractions per square mile than any other city in the UK, so the question won’t be what to do, but what to do first. Even though York now has developed into a modern city with shops and amenities the main appeal of York is it’s fascinating history.

I recommend you start your time in York at the citys cathedral - York Minster, a masterpiece in stained glass and a sacred space which has been at the heart of Christianity in northern England since the 7th century. When you climb the Central Tower you will also get an incredible view of the whole city.

York has 30 museums for you to chose from, the UK’s best racecourse and many many festivals throughout the year.

You can wander around the cobbled, medieval streets and see beautifully preserved buildings from the 14th century. You will also see signs of Yorks Roman roots as well as Viking influence. You can take a guided tour to understand more about the interesting history of York.

You can find out more about York’s rich Viking heritage at the JORVIK Viking Centre - I remember going on a school trip to JORVIK as a child and being absolutely fascinated by it. I’ve since returned with my son and he too had a great time!

Don’t forget to visit Shambles, one of the oldest streets in the world and jam-packed with quirky shops to explore.

Don’t miss : York Minster, the 14th century City Walls (you can walk along them too), the Shambles (the world’s best preserved medieval streets), JORVIK Museum, views along the River Ouse and possibly a river cruise, Cliffords Tower

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

How much time do I need : You can see most of York’s main attractions in a day but I recommend 2 days so you can enjoy the city at a more leisurely pace.

 
 

5) Liverpool

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I may be a little biased with this one as Liverpool is my home city. Inbetween my travelling, I’ve lived 30 min outside of Liverpool my whole life.

Liverpool is best known for being the birthplace of one of the world’s most famous bands : The Beatles. If you’re a fan it’s a great place to visit the city where the band began. You can visit Strawberry Fields, Penny Lane and The Cavern Club or discover the band’s history at The Beatles Story, the world’s largest permanent collection.

There’s so much more to Liverpool than The Beatles. It is located on the River Mersey and a great thing to do in Liverpool is to wander around the Albert Docks. This used to be a bustling port but is now a vibrant district, packed with museums, galleries, bars, and restaurants and lined with the UK’s largest collection of listed buildings, including the Three Graces.

There are many museums and galleries around Liverpool including The Museum of Liverpool and Merseyside Maritime Museum where you can learn about the Titanic, who was conceived and registered in Liverpool, carrying the city's name on her stern.

Did you know Liverpool has some amazing beaches? If you’re in Liverpool in the summer and you have time you should head out of the city centre and explore the local beaches.

In the evening Liverpool really comes alive! You can dine at one of the many great restaurants Liverpool, has, enjoy some live music at the iconic Cavern Club, head down Matthew’s Street for bars or go to Concert Square and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of locals enjoying their evening.

Don’t miss : The Cavern Club, the Albert Dock, Liverpool Cathedral, The Beatles Story, Mersey River Cruise

Nice to see : Anfield Stadium (the ground of Liverpool Football Club), Tate Liverpool, Museum of Liverpool, Liverpool Library, views from the Royal Liver Buildings, Strawberry Fields

How much time do you need : As Liverpool is great in the evening I would recommend staying overnight and seeing everything Liverpool has to offer over two days. If you’re a real Beatles fan you should stay 3 days so you can see all the Beatles related tours and exhibitions.

 
 

6) Brighton

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Brighton is a charming seaside town on the south coast of England. It’s famous Palace Pier, lined with arcade games and attractions is one of the biggest attractions in the south east of England. After a stroll along the pier, if the British weather is being kind to you, you can head to the beach for a quick dip or to surf or bodyboard.

A 1.5-hour train ride from London, Brighton has a bohemian feel about the place. The city has the UK’s largest LGBTQ+ scene which has become part of the city’s identity and Brighton Pride in August is always a joyful event, attracting several big musical acts.

Brighton is also packed full of beautiful independent shops and boutiques which are largely concentrated around the iconic Lanes.

Something you may expect to find in Brighton is an exotic palce : Royal Pavilion. This place is a must visit in Brighton that blends European and Asian influences and it would look more at home in India then on the coast of England.

There is also a great food scene in Brighton and you’ll find everything from traditional British fish and chips (great enjoyed on the beach for an iconic British experience) to the finest cuisine at Michelin star restaurants.

Don’t miss : Brighton Pier, Brighton Royal Pavilion and Gardens, The Lanes, North Lanes, i360 Viewing Tower (spectacular views), Brighton Beach

Nice to see : Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, Regency Square, Brighton Marina, Old Steine Gardens, Brighton Festival (in May every year)

How much time do you need : It depends on the time of year - if you’re visiting in Autumn or Winter when the weather isn’t so nice 1 or 2 days in Brighton is enough. If you’re visiting in Summer I’d recommend around 4/5 days as you can really enjoy what Brighton has to offer and experience a British seaside in the summer.

 
 

7) Cambridge

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Cambridge is best known for being home to one of the oldest universities in the UK, infact it’s the world’s oldest surviving university.

Cambridge has a long history in academia and innovation with more Nobel Prize Winners coming from Cambridge then any other university. There are many famous Alumni of Cambridge including 14 British Prime Ministers, Stephen Hawking, Charles Darwin and Isaac Newton.

Cambridge is also a beautiful town with many well-preserved historic buildings that are centred around Cambridges 31 colleges. The architectural highlights include Kings College Chapel, Fitzwilliam Museum and Quayside. You can take a guided tour of the colleges to learn more.

A must-do in Cambridge and to see the city from a different angle is to take to the water and punt along the scenic River Cam. A punt is a traditional flat bottomed boat and it’s a very typical thing to do here from tourists to locals to students.

Just over an hour from London, Cambridge is also incredibly easy to navigate by foot and has a brilliant Sunday market where you can pick up second-hand books and vinyl, fresh local produce, or handmade jewellery.

Make sure you pick up an iconic Chelsea Bun from Fitzbillies which has been a Cambridge staple since 1921.

Don’t miss : King’s College Chapel, Queen’s College and Mathematical Bridge, Trininty College, Fitzwilliam Museum, the River Cam and a punting tour, Great St Mary’s Church (climb to the top for amazing views), Bridge of Sighs

Nice to see : The Botanic Garden, Wren Library, the Round Church, The Backs (behind the colleges)

How much time do you need : You can see most of the main sights of Cambridge in one full day. If you want to do things like take a punt down the river it may be worth giving yourself a little more time and having 2 days in Cambridge.

 
 

8) Glasgow

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Many people say that the people of Glasgow really make Glasgow what it is but the city itself is pretty special too. Glasgow has been voted the UKs friendliest destination many times so make sure you chat to a local or two whilst visiting.

Glasgow is just over an hour’s train ride from Edinburgh, although Glasgow is often seen as cooler and edgier.

There is a great creative art scene in Glasgow and you' can find unique products sold all over the city. There is amazing street art around the city that you can go on a walking tour to see the best of including various figures who have played a part in Glasgow’s culture.

There are amazing places to visit for art lovers including Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the House for an Art Lover and plenty of Charles Rennie Mackintosh designs. Make sure you see the legendary Duke of Wellington statue outside of the Gallery of Modern Art which is always sporting a traffic cone after this started as a prank in the 1980s.

Whilst in Scotland you should probably try some whiskey! You can go on a distillery your and whiskey tasting experience to try Scotlan'd’s national drink.

Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music, with iconic venues like King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut to independent venues, live music is at the heart of Glasgow’s nightlife scene.

There are also some beautiful green spaces in Glasgow where you can excape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Don’t miss : Glasgow Cathedral, Necropolis, Kelvington Museum and Art Gallery, Riverside Museum, Tall Ship

Nice to see : Celtic Park Stadium, Science Museum, University of Glasgow, George Square, Gallery of Modern Art, Scotland Street School Museum

How much time do you need : Glasgow is a pretty compact city and you can see Glasgows main attractions in a day. If you’re up in Glasgow I’d recommend a day trip to Loch Ness to see if you can catch of glimpse of the famous Nessy and to see some of the beautiful Scottish Highlands.

 
 

9) Belfast

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The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is the largest city in the country but is relatively small compared to other capitals.

Belfast has a long history of shipbuilding, including building the Titanic and the city has many excellent museums that look back over it’s ship building past. Voted the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction in 2016, the Titanic Belfast allows you to learn about the famous ship from its conception to its tragic ending.

If you want to discover more of Belfast’s history you can take the Black Cab Tour where a guide will explain some of the city’s turbulent past as you see some of the city’s politically-charged murals, the Peace Walls and Shankill Road.

There is also a lively Cathedral quarter with beautiful Victorian architecture and old worldy cobbled streets.

If you’re looking to get out into nature, Cave Hill Country Park offers incredible views of the city, ideal for a sunset stroll. The majestic Giant’s Causeway is also just 15 minutes from the city.

Don’t miss : Titanic Belfast, Belfast City Hall, St George’s Market on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Crumlin Road Gaol, Ulster Museum

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

How much time do you need : I recommend 2 days in Belfast to visit all of the main attractions. You should also make sure you visit Giant’s Causeway which is an absolute must day trip to do.

 
 

10) Oxford

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Oxford is another city known for its university. My sister went to Oxford University so I spent a lot of time there on visits with her.

Oxford is quite a small city but it isn’t short on activities, history or entertainment; quite the opposite in fact as there are so many things to do. Whatever you’re into, there are things to do in Oxford for all ages and interests.

Many of the buildings date back 600 years or more which means it’s a great place for history buffs and architecture fans.

If you’re a Harry Potter fan Oxford is the place to visit as it’s full of Harry Potter locations in Oxford where many of the colleges where used as filming locations. Christ Church College is the real-life Great Hall of Hogwarts – think grand dining and maybe a sneaky invisibility cloak or two.

The Bodleian Library, which dates back to the 1400s is like stepping into the Hogwarts Library. It is the oldest purpose-built Oxford University building and the oldest reading room within the library is Duke Humfrey’s Library. You can only visit the Bodleian as part of a tour. Book Bodleian tours in advance.

There are beautiful botanical gardens and the chance to go punting along the river. As you glide along the water in the flat bottomed boats you can take in the historic views of Magdalen College and the Botanic Garden.

There are many independent shops and businesses, as well as excellent Oxford restaurants, markets, cafes and coffee shops to enjoy during your weekend in Oxford.

Oxford is in southern England, north-west of London. It only takes an hour to reach from London and it’s nearby to other southern cities including Bath and Bristol. If you have spare time while visiting Oxford, there are plenty of lovely places to visit in the Cotswolds just a short drive away.

Don’t miss : Christ Church College (Hogwarts Great Hall), Bodleian Library, Maglalen College, Botanic Garden, The Bridge of Sighs, University Church of St Mary the Virgin (great views)

Nice to see : Ashmoleon Museum, Radcliffe Camera, Oxford Castle

How much time do you need : You need 2 days in Oxford to really be able to see the sights and get a feel for the place.

 
 

Frequently Asked Questions

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When is the best time to visit the UK?

The UK's weather can be a bit unpredictable, but late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

Do I need a visa to visit the UK?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of the European Union, the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter the UK for short stays without a visa. Check the specific visa requirements based on your citizenship.

What currency is used in the UK?

Pound sterling (£) is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns.

What’s public transportation like in the UK?

Excellent! Trains, buses and the iconic London Underground make getting around a breeze. Consider an Oyster card for seamless travel in London.

Which cities should I visit in the UK?

London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool, Bath, Oxford, Bristol, Glasgow, Cambridge, and Brighton are among the must-visit cities. Each has its unique charm!

What's the deal with UK cuisine?

British food has a bad rep but it’s actually fantastic! When visiting the UK you should try traditional dishes like fish and chips, English breakfast, and don't forget the classic afternoon tea. Learn more about traditional British food.

Is tipping common in the UK?

Yes, it's customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service isn't included. Tipping for exceptional service is appreciated.

What's the voltage, and will I need an adapter to visit the UK?

The UK uses a standard voltage of 230V, and the outlets are Type G. If your devices have a different plug, bring an adapter.

Are there any cultural etiquettes I should be aware of when visiting the UK?

Queuing (standing in line) is serious business in the UK and politeness goes a long way. Saying "please" and "thank you" is second nature.

Are there any festivals or events I should plan around?

Absolutely! Check out local festivals, especially during the summer. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Notting Hill Carnival, and Bonfire Night are highlights.

Is it easy to find vegetarian or vegan food?

It’s really easy to find vegan and vegetarian food in the UK as is very veg-friendly. Most restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, and major cities have dedicated vegan eateries.

What's the emergency number in the UK?

Dial 999 for emergencies. For non-urgent medical advice, call 111. Save these numbers in your phone, just in case.

Booking.com

More Information about the UK

What is England Famous For?

I also have many other UK city guides and which you can read by clicking on the links.

ENGLAND: How to visit Liverpool from London, visit best beaches near Liverpool and find out the best things to do in Liverpool, must sees in Manchester, make the most of your time in Brighton. Visit the Roman city of Chester or head to the stunning Lake District.

SCOTLAND: Discover the best things to do in Edinburgh

WALES: Llangollen

Information About London

LONDON ITINERARY: In our article The Perfect 2 Days in London you’ll find a detailed itinerary for exploring London. If you only have one day in London you can find out the most important things to fit into your day in this 1 Day London Itinerary.

LONDON TRAVEL ADVICE: Here are the important things to know if it will be your first time in London. Included in this article are all my best hints and tips for visiting London for the first time. The Best 49 Things to do in London article will help you plan your London itinerary. If you’re wondering what foods you should try when in London read this Best British Foods You Have to Try.

WHERE TO STAY: If you’re unsure on the different areas in London and where would be best to stay make sure you read this Best Places to Stay in London article.

PACKING FOR LONDON: If you’re wondering what you should pack when visiting London read this Packing for London and the Rest of the UK Guide.

LONDON AT CHRISTMAS: For an overview of the best things to do in London at Christmas here are 15 things to do in London at Christmas. I also have guides to the best Christmas lights, best London Christmas window displays and best Christmas markets in London. Learn how to put it all together in this great London Christmas Itinerary.

Read all of my articles about England in the United Kingdom Travel Guide.

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Planning a trip? Here are some of the resources and tools I personally use to organise my travel plans to anywhere in world.

FLIGHTS : Find the best deals on flights t using Skyscanner.

VISAS : Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for wherever you’re going to and apply for an expedited visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application if needed.

TRAVEL INSURANCE : Insure your trip with my preferred insurance for single trip and annual cover HeyMondo

AIRPORT TRANSFER : Pre-book your hotel transfers from the airport.

ACCOMMODATION : Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com.

DAY TRIPS : Find the best city tours and day excursions on your travels on Viator or Get Your Guide.

 

Did you know that …

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Sara Green
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