united kingdom tourist attraction

19 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jun 8, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Edinburgh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

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

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

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

Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on England

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The 35 best things to do in the UK

World-famous landmarks, incredible music festivals and some unexpected gems: this is our pick of the best things to do in the UK right now.

The United Kingdom is a glorious destination, and the four countries that constitute our island nation all bring something to the table. England , Northern Ireland , Scotland and Wales are all stunning places to visit in their own right, with fantastic museums and galleries , buzzing music scenes, incredible scenery and intriguing histories. 

Whatever kind of trip you’re planning next, our round-up should have you covered. We've got all the world-renowned stuff as well as some more under the radar things to get up to. Happy travels! RECOMMENDED: 🧙 The most  mystical places in the UK 🏰 The best  castles in the UK 🏖️ The best seaside towns in the UK 👀 The best  new things to do in the UK 2024

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

Best things to do in the UK

1.  check out time out’s top place to visit in the uk in 2024.

Bristol's  cultural scene is just as exciting as  London ’s, but it’s still only a short coach journey away; it has picture-perfect streets and bustling, diverse nightlife. And i n 2024, its arts offering is only getting better. There's  DIASPORA! , Undershed , a new immersive gallery on track to launch in Spring, Boxhall  – a street food, beer and events space by the same people who behind London’s  Boxpark  – and  Bristol’s newest music festival,  Forwards , which is being headlined by Loyle Carner and LCD Soundsystem. 

Discover the best places to visit in the UK in 2024

2.  Pitch up at a world-famous music festival

Festivals don’t get much more famous than Glastonbury . The UK’s biggest music festival takes over a chunk of Somerset countryside most summers with mud, music, mischief, hippies and healing. It’s difficult to convey quite how vast Glasto is, with whole worlds of activity taking place beyond the stages as well as an awe-inspiring musical line-up ranging from pop to reggae to rock to dubstep to metal to folk to techno. If you’re lucky enough to bag a ticket, bring an open mind, a sense of humour and a jumbo pack of baby wipes.

Discover our full guide to Glastonbury Festival 2024

3.  Climb the UK’s highest peak

Lace up your walking boots to take on Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in mainland Britain, at 1,345 metres above sea level. There are two main routes up – the Mountain Track, which is used by most walkers or Carn Mor Dearg Arête, a more challenging ascent for experienced scramblers and hill walkers which can take more than ten hours to complete. If you really love heights, consider taking on the National Three Peaks Challenge. Plan your own or join an organised event to climb Snowden, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis, the highest mountains in Wales, England and Scotland, usually within 24 hours.

Discover the best hikes in the UK

4.  Party all weekend at Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill Carnival – the annual celebration of London’s Caribbean community, its culture and traditions – is Europe’s biggest street party. It takes place every August bank holiday weekend on the roads around west London, transforming the area into one huge, packed, pulsating party. The carnival, which runs over two days (Sunday is family day), features a colourful parade, fantastic live music, thumping sound systems, soca floats, steel bands and a whole lot of delicious Caribbean food.

Discover our full guide to Notting Hill Carnival

5.  Follow in the footsteps of giants

The Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland is a geological marvel. The dramatic coastal feature, made up of 40,000 basalt stone columns, has attracted visitors for centuries, but it became Northern Ireland’s first and only Unesco World Heritage Site in the 1980s and now also boasts a great visitor centre thanks to the National Trust. There are no museum ropes holding you back here. Wander over the shiny stones, sit on the Wishing Chair – a natural throne polished by thousands of bottoms – look out for rock formations the Camel and the Giant’s Boot. The result of volcanic eruptions over 60 million years ago or the remains of a pathway built by a giant? You decide.

Discover the best things to do in Northern Ireland

6.  Get lost in a town of books

When it comes to literary tourism, Hay-on-Wye is a real bucket list spot. It  proudly proclaims to be the world’s first ever book town and is famed for its annual book festival that has attracted the likes of Hillary Clinton, Dua Lipa and Stormzy. With over 30 bookstores, this is a bibliophobes mecca. If you had to go to just one, make it Richard Booth's – a three-storey emporium of new and used books spread over three glorious floors.  

Discover the best things to do in Wales

7.  Take a tour of the UK’s incredible National Parks

The UK might be small but its countryside is mighty and incredibly diverse, from rolling green hills and ancient woodland to impressive mountain peaks, idyllic lakes and rugged moors. To see all the different kinds of landscapes the UK calls its own, take a tour of the UK’s 15 national parks, from the flat Norfolk Broads and the wilds of Exmoor to the high drama of the Lake District and Snowdonia  and the internationally recognised dark skies of Northumberland.

Discover the most beautiful national parks in the UK

8.  Come up with your own conspiracy theories at Stonehenge

The world-famous prehistoric stone circle on Salisbury Plain attracts millions of visitors a year, but its popularity doesn’t detract from its intrigue. Were these imposing standing stones – bluestone from more than 150 miles away in Wales – a celestial calendar, a burial ground or a site for sacrifice? Was it built by Merlin the wizard and a band of giants? Are its origins supernatural, or even extraterrestrial? Or just an incredible feat of human will? Visit to figure out what you think the true story of the monument is.

9.  Visit The Beatles’ childhood homes

Get a ticket to ride around the city The Beatles called home. Liverpool is the place the Fab Four met and started performing. Learn about their incredible musical career at The Beatles Story before visiting Mendips and 20 Forthlin Road, the childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, now managed by the National Trust. Finish off your visit with a night out at the rebuilt Cavern Club which sits near where The Beatles first started to play in the early ’60s.

Discover the best things to do in Liverpool

10.  Catch some Cornish waves

It may not have the white hot sands of Miami, but Cornwall is one of the best surfing destinations in the world (and we're not just being biased). And Fistral Beach in Newquay is widely thought of as the jewel in Britain's surfing crown. First timer or wave-riding veteran, this natural playground has opportunities for anyone to give surfing a go. The Cornish coast is also just really, really beautiful. 

Discover the best things to do in Cornwall

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What are you looking for, why we love england.

Few locations inspire quite like England. It’s the home of iconic landmarks from Big Ben to Stonehenge. You’ll find swathes of natural landscapes, from the Lake District to the Cornish coast, alongside market towns, vibrant villages and dramatic coastline.

From legendary landmarks and bustling cities to rolling emerald hills - England is an unmissable nation of contrasts. But beyond its beautiful landscapes and rich heritage, there’s a side of dynamism, creativity and culture to discover. Sing your heart out at the iconic Glastonbury music festival, or lose yourself in Manchester’s diverse street food cooking up international flavours. Or take in the tranquil vineyards of Kent before sampling sustainably brewed beers in the country’s microbreweries. Whether it’s an adrenaline-fuelled adventure across our National Parks, hitting up the waves of our coastline, or taking in the hustle and bustle of our cultural hubs, it’s time to discover all that England has to offer.

Capital city

VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Home to seven bridges, the Angel of the North, and some of Britain’s most vibrant nightlife, Newcastle ’s cultural credentials just keep growing. Foodies will fall for its restaurants, markets and breweries, while hipsters can’t get enough of its unique galleries, live music and vintage shops.

VisitBritain/Quintin Lake/Andy Edwards

From Beatlemania to football fever, there’s plenty to get obsessed with in this small but mighty northern city. Browse the iconic Tate gallery, eat your way around a street food market and sip cocktails in a rooftop bar, overlooking the Grade I listed architecture of the historic waterfront. And no visit to Liverpool is complete without a night out in the Cavern Quarter, paying homage to the Fab Four.

VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

Lake District

Sparkling lakes, secret valleys and picturesque stone-built villages make up the beauty of the Lake District . From climbing England’s highest peak, discovering the world of Beatrix Potter or gazing at the skies for breath-taking constellations – explore the Lakes District for awe-inspiring experiences.

VisitBritain/Peter Beavis

A city that needs no introduction when it comes to street art . Home of iconic stencil artist Banksy, see graffiti drenched walls round every corner. Look out for UPFEST, an annual urban art festival that brings big names and big designs, indie stalls, and creative workshops to the city.

VisitBritain/Pawel Libera

Jurassic Coast

England’s only natural World Heritage Site, embark on a coastal adventure across the Jurassic Coast that spans a whopping 95 miles (152km). A fossil finder’s paradise, spend time hitting up the beaches for prehistoric hunting, or discover breathtaking sunset views from the chalky hills of Old Harry Rocks.

English destinations

A wellness retreat for the Romans and Georgian architecture around every corner.

VisitBritain

An industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart and a whole host of quirky adventures.

West Midlands Growth Company

A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

VisitBritain/i360

Cool creative Bristol is a must-see for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

The city of Cambridge is a hotbed of history, architecture and innovation.

Shutterstock/Pajor Pawel

Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly

Renowned for its glorious countryside, striking coastline and unique attractions.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

The birthplace of 2-Tone music, and home to a bohemian village and a showy modern cathedral.

Hugging the south-west, Devon is a playground for adventurers, explorers and foodies.

Shutterstock / Hugh O'Connor

Devon, England

From ice-cream parlours to sea food festivals, the ‘Garden of England’ is meant for discovery.

VisitBritain/Dipyourtoesin

A hotbed for shopping and the arts, you’ll find lots to explore in Leeds.

VisitBritain/Thomas Heaton

From The Beatles to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with seriously cool credentials.

Oh Me Oh My

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

VisitBritain/Manchester Craft Beer Festival

Newcastle upon Tyne

Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

Rich Kenworthy

Newcastle, England

Steeped in legends that surround Robin Hood to literary greats, discover what this city has to offer.

projecthoop

Just an hour by train from London and you’re in the city of dreaming spires.

VisitBritain/Jess Barfield

Stratford-upon-Avon

Birthplace of the great bard, William Shakespeare, fall in love with this hopelessly romantic 16th century town.

©VisitBritain/Nemorin

Lovers of The Crown can wrap themselves in royalty as this town is about as regal as it gets.

Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2022

Small and mighty York is the medieval walled city that really packs a punch.

VisitBritain/Sam Barker

Welcome to dinosaur territory; its beaches and rocks strewn with ancient fossils and footprints.

King Charles III England Coast Path

A masterpiece in the making, filled with beaches, clifftops, cities and nature.

South West Coast Path/Roy Curtis

The Broads is a breath of fresh air, beautifully webbed with lakes, fens and rivers.

Norfolk Broads Direct

Dartmoor and Exmoor

With tangled oak forests and looming peaks, it can feel like the edge of the world.

Yorkshire Dales

Proof that perfection can’t be rushed, the Yorkshire Dales was millions of years in-the-making.

VisitBritain/MattCant

Step into nature with tufty-haired ponies, wild countryside and a labyrinth of bike trails.

VisitBritain/Raul Alex Caramizaru

South Downs

Discover epic trails, rivers to kayak, castles to conquer and wild woods to explore.

VisitBritain/Nadir Khan

From the tip of England’s tallest peak to the nation’s deepest lake, this national park is stacked with super-sized scenery.

VisitBritain/Ryan Lomas

Lake District, England

Peak District

For hikers, cyclists, horse riders and thrill seekers, the Peak District offers adventures galore.

VisitBritain/Jon Attenborough

The Peak District, England

Lush rolling pastures, pretty stone villages and rambling rivers - the Cotswolds has it all.

Cotswolds, England

Northumberland

Historical hot property – evident in its castles, citadels and 2,000-year-old Hadrian’s Wall.

VisitBritain/Chris Ceasar

North York Moors

Rugged yet beautiful, wild yet welcoming – the North York Moors National Park is full of surprises.

A perfect blend of nature and urban living. Colchester, Essex, was made to be explored.

Indre @Colchesterstreets

Known as the City of Stories, create your own narrative as you explore Norwich’s huge array of historic and modern day attractions.

Visit Norwich/Norwich Paddleboarding

Norwich, England

From a Medieval monarch found under a car park to the city’s celebration of multicultural modern life, Leicester has it all. See the top things to do here.

Visit Leicester

Leicester, England

England itineraries

5 days in devon and cornwall.

Explore the spectacular scenery of England's south west corner on this five day itinerary.

Cornwall, England

5 days in and around London

London is a city that needs no introduction — but get ready to explore more of Britain on this five day itinerary.

VisitBritain/aleks_london_diary

London, England

5 days in north east England

Explore vibrant cities, spectacular castles and quiet beaches on this five day itinerary around north east England.

Getty Images/SolStock

Northumberland, England

5 days in north west England

Explore the cities and national parks of England's north west on this five day itinerary.

Liverpool One Shopping Centre

Liverpool, England

5 days in south west England and south Wales

Discover incredible street art, visit cosy countryside pubs and live your best Bridgerton life on a trip around south west England and south Wales.

5 days in the West Midlands

From Peaky Blinders to Shakespeare, the West Midlands has plenty of stories to tell. Explore the region on this five day itinerary.

VisitBritain/Nemorin

Birmingham, England

5 days in Yorkshire

Dynamic cities, fascinating history and rolling green countryside — explore it all on a five day trip around Yorkshire.

Getty Images/Solstock

York, England

Featured things to do in England

Step into nature

Discover a different side to England’s urban spaces on a kayak tour. Walk across historic coastal paths, enjoy its many gardens in bloom and embrace England’s iconic nature in Spring.

Woolfpack_travels

Experience festivals

Jam-packed with summer festivals, come and party with the big names in music and celebrate the arts.

Explore England’s cities

Wander through quaint cobbled streets, tuck into street food as diverse as its communities, and explore a world-class art and music scene.

Richard John Jones

Christmas Markets

Pick up a gift or two under the twinkling lights of England’s Christmas markets. Grab yourself a mulled wine and enjoy the festive cheer across the country.

Our favourite experiences in England

Roman baths.

Tour the original Roman Baths and discover fascinating archaeological finds from pre-Roman and Roman Britain.

Colin Hawkins

Supperclub Tube

On a 1967 former Victoria Line carriage, you’ll enjoy a six-course Latin American menu in this truly unique combination.

Jess Rose Photography

Glastonbury

This legendary gathering is on every music-lover’s bucket list – featuring a star-studded mix of music, comedy, theatre and more.

Andrew Allcock

Sparkle Weekend

The world’s largest free-to-attend celebration of gender diversity lands in Manchester for an annual festival full of lively music and entertainment.

Sparkle Festival, Danny Mclaren, Snappitysnaps Photography

Eden Sessions

Set against the iconic backdrop of the Eden Project’s biomes, these concerts are absolutely epic.

Eden Project / Ben Foster

Dreamland Margate

Spend a memorable day out at the famous Dreamland amusement park in Margate, on the Kent coast.

Wollaton Hall

Calling all Batman fans! Welcome to ‘Wayne Manor’, where the Batman movie The Dark Knight Rises was filmed.

tomoprice/wollatonhall

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Come and see 100 balloons take to the sky at Bristol’s International Balloon Fiesta.

South Downs Way

Meander the ancient trackways and spy dazzling chalklands along the South Downs Way National Trail.

The looming ruins of Whitby Abbey inspired Bram Stoker to write his classic novel Dracula – and they’re just as atmospheric today.

VisitBritain/Simon Palmer

Royal Pavilion

Visit this 19th-century seaside ‘pleasure palace’ in the heart of Brighton to discover its colourful history.

VisitBritain/Simon Anderson/Royal Pavilion

Cotswold Way National Trail

Take one of Britain’s most beautiful walks, on the Cotswold Way National Trail, from Chipping Campden to Bath.

Eat, shop and explore on the Royal Albert Dock

VisitBritain/Kathryn Ramsden

Satisfy your culture cravings at the Tate or delve into Liverpool’s musical legacy in The Beatles Story. Taste global cuisine from a host of independent restaurants or sip champagne in a bar overlooking the water. Or, gain a new perspective of the city from the towering Wheel of Liverpool or aboard a colourful ferry across the Mersey. There’s plenty to explore on the iconic Royal Albert Dock.

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Must-see attractions in The United Kingdom

Windsor Castle

Windsor & Eton

The world’s largest and oldest continuously occupied fortress, Windsor Castle is a majestic vision of battlements and towers. Used for state occasions, it…

Westminster Abbey

The West End

A splendid mixture of architectural styles, Westminster Abbey is considered the finest example of Early English Gothic. It's not merely a beautiful place…

Roman Baths

Welcome to one of Northern Europe's most significant Roman sites. Today more than a million visitors a year come to see its historic finds, atmospheric…

Canterbury Cathedral

A rich repository of more than 1400 years of Christian history, Canterbury Cathedral is the Church of England’s mother ship, and a truly extraordinary…

Natural History Museum

Kensington & Hyde Park

With its thunderous, animatronic dinosaur, riveting displays about planet earth, outstanding Darwin Centre and architecture straight from a Gothic fairy…

St Paul's Cathedral

Sir Christopher Wren’s 300-year-old architectural masterpiece is a London icon. Towering over diminutive Ludgate Hill in a superb position that's been a…

Tower of London

Few parts of the UK are as steeped in history or as impregnated with legend and superstition as the titanic stonework of the Tower of London. Not only is…

Titanic Belfast

The stunning, star-shaped Titanic Belfast is the city's number-one tourist draw. Standing majestically at the head of the slipway where the Titanic was…

Eden Project

South Cornwall

Looking like a cross between a lunar landing station and a James Bond villain's lair, the gigantic hemispherical greenhouses of the Eden Project have…

British Museum

With almost six million visitors trooping through its doors annually, the British Museum in Bloomsbury, one of the oldest and finest museums in the world,…

Predating Stonehenge and the pyramids of Giza, extraordinary Skara Brae is one of the world's most evocative prehistoric sites, and northern Europe’s best…

Durham Cathedral

Northeast England

Monumental Durham Cathedral is the definitive structure of the Anglo-Norman Romanesque style, a resplendent monument to the country’s ecclesiastical…

Glasgow Cathedral

Glasgow Cathedral has a rare timelessness. The dark, imposing interior conjures up medieval might and can send a shiver down the spine. It's a shining…

One of London’s best parks, Hyde Park spreads itself over 142 hectares of neat gardens, wild expanses of overgrown grass and glorious trees. As well as…

Science Museum

The Science Museum will mesmerize with its interactive and educational exhibits covering everything from early technology to space travel. Take the family…

Rosslyn Chapel

Many years may have passed since Dan Brown's novel The Da Vinci Code and the subsequent film came out, but floods of visitors still descend on Scotland's…

Buckingham Palace

Built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham, Buckingham Palace replaced St James's Palace as the monarch's official London residence in 1837. Queen Elizabeth…

Houses of Parliament

Both the elected House of Commons and the House of Lords, who are appointed or hereditary, sit in the sumptuous Houses of Parliament, officially called…

Kew Gardens

Richmond, Kew & Hampton Court

Where else in London can you size up an 18th-century 10-storey Chinese pagoda and a Japanese gateway while finding yourself among one of the world’s most…

Stirling Castle

Hold Stirling and you control Scotland. This maxim has ensured that a fortress of some kind has existed here since prehistoric times. You cannot help…

Hampstead Heath

North London

Sprawling Hampstead Heath, with its rolling woodlands and meadows, feels a million miles away from the city – despite being about 3.5 miles from Trafalgar…

Tower Bridge

It doesn't matter from where you first glimpse Tower Bridge, with two neo-Gothic towers rising gracefully from either side of the Thames: London's…

Whitby Abbey

There are ruined abbeys, and there are picturesque ruined abbeys. And then there's Whitby Abbey, dominating the skyline above the East Cliff like a great…

Museum of London

Romp through 450,000 years of London history at this entertaining and educational museum, one of the capital's finest. Exhibiting everything from a…

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle, an immense moated pile just east of Maidstone,  is often considered the world’s most romantic castle. It's certainly one of the most visited…

Camden Market

Eclectic and alternative, Camden Market attracts millions of people each year and is one of London's top places to visit. What started out as a collection…

Madame Tussauds

Packed with waxwork likenesses of celebrities, Madame Tussauds is kitschy and pricey, but makes for a fun-filled day. There are plenty of personalities to…

Temple Church

The magnificent Temple Church was built by the secretive Knights Templar, an order of crusading monks founded in the 12th century to protect pilgrims…

Corfe Castle

The massive, shattered ruins of Corfe Castle loom so dramatically from the landscape it's like blundering into a film set. The defensive fragments tower…

The Chartwell Estate was home of Sir Winston Churchill from 1924 until his death in 1965. It offers a breathtakingly intimate insight into the life of…

Turner Contemporary

Turner Contemporary is a blockbuster art gallery, bolted together on the site of the seafront guesthouse where master painter JMW Turner used to stay…

Durdle Door

Durdle Door is the poster child of Dorset's Jurassic Coast. This immense, sea-fringed, 150-million-year-old Portland stone arch was created by a…

Down House, on the edge of the quaint Kent village of Downe, was Charles Darwin's home from 1842 until his death in 1882. It was here that he developed…

Windsor Great Park

Windsor Great Park stretches south from Windsor Castle almost all the way to Ascot, 7 miles southwest. It covers just under 8 sq miles and holds a lake,…

Mayfield Lavender

With a bright-red London phone box rising surreally up in a sea of purple flowers, Mayfield Lavender is one of the most alluring summer sights around…

Bowes Museum

A monumental chateau half a mile east of the centre contains the lavishly furnished Bowes Museum. Funded by 19th-century industrialist John Bowes, and…

Life Science Centre

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Part of a sober-minded institute devoted to the study of genetic science, this centre lets you discover the secrets of life through a fascinating series…

An ultramodern makeover at ancient Stonehenge has brought an impressive visitor centre and the closure of an intrusive road (now restored to grassland)…

Blenheim Palace

Oxfordshire

One of the greatest stately homes in Britain, and a Unesco World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace is a monumental baroque fantasy, designed by Sir John…

Christ Church

With its compelling combination of majestic architecture, literary heritage and double identity as (parts of) Harry Potter’s Hogwarts, Christ Church…

More destinations you need to see

• The 10 Most Visited Attractions In The United Kingdom

Rich in myth, legend, lore and history the United Kingdom captures and draws in hundreds upon thousands of tourists every year weather it be to see the renowned British Museum which is dedicated to Art, Culture and History or The Tower of London which has seen the deaths of not one but two of England 's monarchs this tiny island nation draws us in. In this article we will look at some of the top and most visited of England's tourist attractions and see why each hold the captivating power that they do.

The Allures of the Queen's Country

The british museum.

The British Museum , located in the heart of London, saw some 68,20,686 people in 2015 and boasts of 8 million works that originates from every continent and brilliantly displays the history of our race on its walls. Built in 1753 it originally consisted of the collections of physician and scientist, Sir Hans Sloane and opened to the public in on January 15 th , 1795. It was been expanded over the years due to British colonization and has resulted in several branch institutions. King George II doubled the collections that were shown and in addition to the Sloane library added in particular the Cottonian Library, named for Robert Cotton, which dates back to Elizabethan times and the Harleain library, which was the collections of the Earls of Oxford and the only surviving copy of Beowulf. In the 19 th Century sculptures of Greek and Roman origins as well as Egyptian artifacts dominated the antiquities displays, and after the Battle of the Nile in 1801 the British Museum acquired even more Egyptian artifacts it was King George III who presented the museum with the Rosetta Stone in 1802. The museum is a beacon of history, culture, and art drawing the curiosity and love from millions around the world.

The National Gallery

The National Gallery is renowned around the world as one of the great houses of Art and is located at Trafalgar square as well in the heart of London. The National Gallery is the second most visited places in all of England. It was founded in 1824 and houses over 2,300 pieces of work that date from the mid-13th Century through 1900. Unlike Galleries or Museums the National Gallery did not come into being due to any princely art collection but rather when the British Parliament bought 38 paintings from the heirs of John Julius Angerstein, an insurance broker and patron of the arts. As well the collection belongs to the British people. The allure of the talent and the works of the great masters is what draws people to the Gallery as the walls are covered in artistic representation of history, including both that of England and of the world as a whole.

The Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum Like the British Museum the Natural History Museum, sometimes called the Cathedral of Nature, charges nothing for admission and the collections that are housed inside its great walls belong to the people. The Museum is the home of life and science exhibits that total some 80 million items with five main collections: botany, entomology, mineralogy, paleontology and zoology. As well as being a renowned center of taxonomy, identification and conservation. Due to the age of the institution the collections not only have scientific value but historic as well, such as collections from Charles Darwin and is particularly famous for its display of dinosaur skeletons. The Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine, is a patron of the museum as well. With so much history and scientific discovery under one roof it draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Tate Modern

Tate Modern is a Modern Art Gallery located in London and was established in 2000 and is based out of the former Bankside Power Station and houses the British national collection of art from 1900 to present day. It is a draw for those who love or have an interest in modern art. Tate is one of the largest museums of modern and contemporary art. Like the other galleries there is no admission charge to access the collection displays, though tickets may be sold for any major display the gallery has, so it also draws those who may be on a budget for their vacation.

The Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum located in Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, which is the smallest district of London, and is south of the center. The Museum was created in 1852 and named in honor of Britain's Queen Victoria and her consort, Albert. It houses a permanent collection of 4.5 Million objects and spans 5,000 years of art, from ancient times to present day. From the cultures of Europe, North America, Asia and North Africa. The displays of ceramics, glass, textiles, costumes, silver, ironwork, jewelry, furniture and medieval objects, sculpture, prints, printmaking, drawings and photographs are among the largest in the world and draws in 3,432,325 people a year.

The Science Museum

The Science Museum was founded by Bennet Woodcroft in 1857 and had the distinction of having Queen Victoria lay the foundation block. The Queen asked the museum to be named for her and her late husband and initially it was though when the new building was built ten years after it took on the title of the Art Collection and the Science Collection. It included a collection of machinery which became the Museum of Patents in 1858 and the Patent Office Museum in 1863. This Collection contained many of the famous exhibits that are now apart of the Science Museum. The museum attracted 3,356,212 people in 2015 and like the others galleries and museums around Britain the general admission is free.

Somerset House

Somerset House is a neoclassical manor house that was originally the site of a Tudor Palace was designed by Sir William Chambers in 1776. It has been further expanded with the addition of Victorian Wings in 1831 and 1836. It sits just east of Waterloo Bridge and south of the Strand on the banks of the River Thames. The East wing is also an adjacent campus for the King's College London. Elizabeth Tudor, the future Elizabeth I, stayed at Somerset House during the reign of her sister, Mary I.

Tower of London

Tower of London is a historic royal castle that is nestled on the north bank of the river Thames and was founded towards the end of 1066 as a part of the Norman Conquest. A grand palace in its early construction it served as a royal residence. The castle was used as a prison from 1100-1952 although it was not its primary purpose. As a whole the Tower is a complex of several buildings with two centric rings of defensive walls and a moat. Though not a prison, initially it had imprisoned some of History's most infamous royals including the Princes in the Tower. Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII, was beheaded on Tower Green in 1536 as well was her cousin, Kathryn Howard some years later. The tower brought in 2,785,249 visitors in 2015.

The National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery is an art Gallery in London that houses portraits of historically import and famous British people. It was the first of its kind when it opened in 1856. The gallery moved in 1896 to its current location at St Martin's Place which is just off Trafalgar Square. The gallery houses a collection of 195,000 portraits that stretch throughout the span of British history, and sees 2.06 million people yearly. Like the other museums and galleries in Britain the National Portrait Gallery is free to the public.

The Top Places to Visit in England Never Disappoint

Due to her rich history and just how steeped in myth, legend, and lore, England will always hold a place in the hearts of people from all around the world.

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10 Best Places to Visit in the UK

By Carl Austin · Last updated on February 5, 2024

Composed of England , Wales , Scotland and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom has long been a favorite European tourist destination for many because of its beautiful countryside, historic cities, topnotch museums and outstanding theaters.

From medieval castles to stately mansions and the awe-inspiring scenery of the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands, there are a diverse set of places to visit in the UK .

10. Cambridge [SEE MAP]

Cambridge is a charming English city located on the River Cam just north of London. As the home to one of the world’s top universities, the University of Cambridge, it has all of the cultural and entertainment options you might expect from a college town.

Cambridge touts itself as a “city for all seasons”. There is no shortage of things to do even on the coldest winter day, and the options are seemingly unlimited when the warmer weather sets in.

The King’s College Chapel, situated along the River Cam, is considered a fine example of perpendicular Gothic architecture and is one of the most visited sights in the city. The Cambridge University Botanic Garden features 8,000 species of plants and flowers, a winter garden, mature trees and glasshouses. It has been drawing in visitors for more than 150 years.

Cambridge’s green surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a number of outdoor activities. In addition to perennial favorites such as walking and cycling, the Cam River is a great place to try punting, which involves steering a flat-bottomed boat with a pole.

9. Lake District [SEE MAP]

Located in north west England in the county of Cumbria, the Lake District is the second largest National Park in the UK. The main attractions are the lakes, mountains and hills carved by glacial erosion and providing dramatic and inspiring scenery. It is England’s premier destination for hiking and climbing. Among the most popular places to visit in the United Kingdom, the park is visited by about 14 million tourists each year.

8. Snowdonia [SEE MAP]

Snowdonia is an awesome national park. There is simply no other way to describe the stunning 360-degree views of the mountains, valleys and coast below. On a clear day, visitors can even see Ireland. Located along the coast of Wales, Snowdonia is home to Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and England, and the largest lake in Wales. It is the third largest national park in the United Kingdom.

The national park is a dream come true for hikers and mountain bikers, but even couch potatoes can find walks suitable for them. Climbing Snowdon will challenge most hikers, but other trails can be walked comfortably by those wearing regular walking shoes. Snowdonia even offers a narrow-gauge railway for those who prefer to view stunning scenery in comfort.

Some 26,000 people live inside the park in quaint villages that offer food, accommodations and local handcrafts. The village of Llanberis is famous for slate, today boasting the national slate museum, while the National Centre for Welsh Music is located in Dongellau. Travelers whose bucket list includes castles won’t be disappointed, since Snowdonia is home to several noteworthy castles: Conwy Castle, built by Edward I, and Penrhyn Castle, built by the wealthy Lord Penrhyn in the 19th century.

7. Chester [SEE MAP]

Not far from the border with Wales, the city of Chester lies on the River Dee in Cheshire, England. The city is more than 2,000 years old, which means there is plenty of history, culture and architecture on hand spanning several eras. Distinctive 19th century black-and-white revival architecture can be found throughout the city.

The Roman and medieval walls encircling the city are a big tourist attraction. After their defensive function became unnecessary, they were converted into an elevated walkway around the city. A walk around the complete two-mile circuit takes about an hour, but most visitors will find plenty to stop and marvel at along the way.

The Chester Rows are walkways with a unique structure not found anywhere else in the world. These covered walkways that date back to the 13th century lead to two different levels of commercial properties. The walkways pass in front of the first floor shops and restaurants, and they offer access to the street-level establishments via steps.

River cruises are a popular way of enjoying the city’s unique atmosphere and remarkable sights. The ancient city can also be explored via walking tours. The city’s storied past provides plenty of fodder for ghost tours.

Chester is the perfect place to find markets and handcrafted items as well as colorful cafes and pubs. The area comes to life at Christmastime. The festive mood and decorations make it look like something straight out of a postcard. The award-winning Cheshire Zoo is a fun stop for visitors of all ages. It has more than 11,000 animals. The Chester Racecourse is the ideal venue to experience the thrill of horse racing.

The Cheshire Cathedral has plenty of architecture and art to admire, including woodcarvings, cloisters, Gothic columns, and spectacular stained glass. It is open daily and entrance is free.

The Cheshire Peak District is sure to make an impression on outdoor lovers. The area’s Gritstone Trail is a stunning walking trail split into three stages where visitors can enjoy the memorable sights of moorlands, peaks, and outcrops.

6. Cornwall [SEE MAP]

Cornwall is a study in contrasts. It is charming and quaint, yet rugged and isolated. Located in the westernmost point of the United Kingdom, Cornwall is a peninsula that offers rocky cliffs overlooking the sea on its northern side and golden sand beaches that are loved by tourists on the south.

Pirates and smugglers called Cornwall home in the days of yore. Surrounded by water, except for the boundary with Devonshire, Cornwall’s beaches were perfect for such activities, eventually leading to a romanticization of these activities in the Gilbert and Sullivan operetta, “The Pirates of Penzance”.

Cornwall also has a fairy tale quality about it. The children’s story, “Jack and the Beanstalk”, takes place here. The legendary King Arthur of Camelot fame supposedly was born in Tintagel Castle. Pixies or fairies are popular even today among Cornish folk.

St. Ives, once a sleepy fishing village north of Penzance, today is known as a popular holiday resort and haven for artists. St. Ives makes a good day trip from Penzance for visitors pressed for time. The village is filled with narrow cobblestone streets dotted with artists’ studios.

St. Michael Mount, the Cornish counterpart of Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy, sits on a tidal island 400 yards off the coast. This means folks who visit this landmark need to time their visit carefully, since the causeway to the island is open only from mid-tide to low water. The castle may have been a monastery a thousand years ago.

5. York [SEE MAP]

York is a walled city with a rich heritage located where the River Foss meets the River Ouse. An impressive number of attractions are packed into the space of this ancient city. York is just a two-hour train ride away from London.

Plenty of exciting sights compete for visitors’ attention as they stroll along the city’s cobblestone streets. One of the city’s landmarks is York Minster. This commanding stone cathedral is filled with remarkable works of art. Children are unlikely to be bored thanks to “explorer baskets” and other activities geared toward young people at the cathedral.

One of the more unique offerings in York is the JORVIK Viking Centre. This recreation of a Viking city captures the sights, sounds, and even the smells that existed a thousand years ago. The medieval Clifford’s Tower, which was built by William the Conqueror and rebuilt by Henry III in the 13th century, is a great vantage point for panoramic views around the city.

Yorkshire Museum is home to impressive collections of archaeology and geology. An authentic recreation of a Victorian street is one of the highlights of the Castle Museum. The Railway Museum is a free attraction that explores 300 years of rail history, including interactive displays that capture the attention of visitors young and old alike.

4. Edinburgh [SEE MAP]

Visitors to Edinburgh need to be prepared to experience history, from the cobblestone streets to Edinburgh Castle that is symbolic of Scotland’s capital. Edinburgh is steeped in history, beginning with the Old and New Towns, which have more than 4,500 historic buildings and sites between them.

Edinburgh Castle, which sits high atop a hill overlooking the city, represents Old Town and its rich history. Old Town is home to Edinburgh’s most famous street, the Royal Mile that connects Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Walking the Royal Mile is where many people begin their visit to Edinburgh. After this trek, travelers may want to visit Grassmarket, a medieval market place where public executions once took place. The White Hart Inn, once frequented by Robert Burns, remains in business today.

New Town isn’t really new, since it dates back to the 18th century and is best known for its neoclassical architecture. New Town is where the city’s upper classes lived. Located here is the Scottish National Portrait Gallery containing faces of everyone from Mary, Queen of Scots to Sean Connery.

More than 200,000 people converge on the city every August for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, an event that showcases the best military bands in the world. The city also boasts a number of other cultural events, including the Edinburgh International Festival, its signature summer festival; the Leith Festival, a traditional arts festival, and the Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world.

3. Stonehenge [SEE MAP]

One of the most famous sites in the world, Stonehenge is composed of earthworks surrounding a circular setting of large standing stones in south west England. It is also home to some of the most important Neolithic and Bronze Age finds and structures in the UK, and contains some 200 scheduled monuments.

Stonehenge was built in three stages. The first stage, built in approximately 3100 B.C, was the original Henge. It consisted of a circular ditch, an earthen bank and Aubrey holes. Aubrey holes are circular pits in the chalk layer of the earth that are about one meter wide. Experts believe that the pits were used in religious ceremonies or for burials. The site was abandoned not long after the completion of this first stage, and it was not used for more than 1000 years.

Archaeologists view the second building stage of Stonehenge as the most dramatic. Construction began in approximately 2150 B.C. Builders transported 82 bluestones, some weighing 4 tons, to the site. It is believed that transporting these stones involved the use of rollers on the land as well as rafts in the rivers when necessary. This route covered 370 km (240 miles). When set up, these stones formed an incomplete double circle at the center of the site.

The third building stage started approximately 2000 B.C. It involved bringing Sarsen stones, which were very large stones, from about 40 km (25 miles) north of Stonehenge to the site. The largest of these stones weighed nearly 50 tons, and they were most likely moved by using sledges and ropes. Archaeologists estimate that it took 600 men to pull one stone, with 500 pulling the sledge and 100 putting rollers under the sledge.

The builders placed the stones in an outer circle supported by lintels. On the inside of the circle, there were five trilithons. A trilithon consists of two tall, upright stones supporting a horizontal stone across the top. These five groupings were arranged in a horseshoe shape that is still visible today.

With no records to explain the reason why it was created, Stonehenge is a mystery. Some feel it was a healing place while others believe it was a burial site. Some believe that it was a solar calendar while others feel that it was a sacred ritual area.

2. Scottish Highlands [SEE MAP]

The Scottish Highlands is the rugged northern and northwestern portion of Scotland. This is the Scotland conjured up by visions of tartan, kilts, lochs and Braveheart. The area is very sparsely populated, with many mountain ranges dominating the region, and includes the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis.

The Highlands are home to many stunning castles including Dunrobin Castle and Eilean Donan Castle, a real picture postcard castle, situated on its own small island in Loch Duich. Only reachable by crossing a stone bridge it was remodeled several times into an ‘ideal’ castle and is well worth a visit, with some interesting rooms and exhibits. Scotland’s most famous lake, Loch Ness can also be found in the Highlands. About a mile wide at most places it is the purported home of the Loch Ness monster, a possibly mythical creature, which dwells in the Loch and is occasionally spotted by locals and passers-by.

1. London [SEE MAP]

London is a fascinating city laden with history, filled with museums and art galleries, beautiful green parks, fantastic shopping and dining, a vibrant theater scene, and, of course, royalty. London is truly a city that has it all .

The English capital is a city that is steeped in history, from its museums and palaces to historic buildings such as Westminster Abbey, the final resting place for many of the country’s greatest individuals, from writers to statesmen to royalty. London is home to some of the most famous museums in the world: the British Museum, the Natural History Museum and the Tate Gallery, all of which offer free admission. The changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace is a not-to-be-missed experience, as is watching the minutes tick away at Big Ben, probably the world’s most famous clock.

Some of the best performances in the world can be found in London, with its lively theater scene. Concerts abound, beginning with an evensong service at St. Paul’s Cathedral, a church that is just as famous for the wedding of Lady Diana Spencer to Prince Charles as it is for being a great example of Christopher Wren’s architecture. Travelers with an interest in other royal wives may want to visit the Tower of London where Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII, was beheaded. Another London must is riding a double-decker bus across Tower Bridge over the Thames River.

Shoppers will enjoy Oxford Street and Knightsbridge, home to Harrods’s, one of the world’s most famous department stores. When it’s time for a break, have a pint at a traditional English pub while deciding what ethnic cuisine to eat that night.

Map of the UK

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Reader interactions.

February 13, 2019 at 4:08 am

Cornwall is very nice place to visit. You can visit Eden project and St Ives its a lovely place.

May 15, 2017 at 1:11 pm

I have been to London it is the greatest place in the uk must see I had the best experience there!!!!

May 30, 2016 at 8:17 am

Bath is definitely better than Cambridge

April 22, 2014 at 3:09 am

I will be visiting London on the 18th of June 2014 for5 days with 3 other people, can you give me any travel tips on visiting sights and accommodation.

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• United Kingdom

48 Best Places to Visit in the UK

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Rich in heritage and history, the United Kingdom has many bustling modern cities and ancient sleepy villages to visit — but where to begin?

Discover many urban destinations in the country which all have their own unique identities and charm.

Whether you visit cosmopolitan London , historic Edinburgh, industrial Birmingham or cultural Stratford-upon-Avon, you can find plenty of authentic and fascinating things to see and do.

Ancient places such as Stonehenge, York and Bath are some of the best places to visit in the UK for history lovers and will not disappoint. The famous college towns of Oxford and Cambridge are rich in history and elegant architecture.

There are also plenty of awe-inspiring natural spaces such as the Cotswolds, Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, as well as the wild coasts of Cornwall and the Shetland Islands.

The UK boasts a number of family-friendly attractions and theme parks , including Alton towers and LEGOLAND Windsor, as well as the Harry Potter Studios at Warner Bros London and Warwick Castle.

Here are some destinations to get you excited for your next UK trip!

1 – Liverpool

One of the UK’s largest cities and a hub of arts and culture , Liverpool is known the world over as the hometown of The Beatles.

It wouldn’t be a complete visit to the city without seeing The Beatles Story Museum or the legendary Cavern Club where the band played its earliest concerts. There is also the famous statue of the Fab Four at Pier Head and many more Beatles landmarks dotted around the city.

Visitors can also see an art exhibition at the world-class Tate Liverpool museum or enjoy a shopping trip in the independent stores of Bold Street .

Ride the famous “Ferry cross the Mersey” or check out a Liverpool F.C. football game at Anfield Stadium. Liverpool might just be your new favorite city!

See also: Fun Things to Do in Liverpool

2 – Edinburgh

The historic capital of Scotland , Edinburgh is an atmospheric city with a medieval core and dramatic scenery.

Tour the impressive Edinburgh Castle which looms high over the city or explore the Royal Mile through the heart of the city’s Old Town.

Climb up through Holyrood Park to visit the ancient volcano known as Arthur’s Seat or explore the centuries-old Botanical Gardens and their Victorian glasshouses.

Witnessing the Military Tattoo marching band show is a popular thing to do in the city as is taking a guided tour of the underground vaults and passageways that spread beneath the streets.

There’s a lot to see and do in Edinburgh, one of the UK’s most enchanting cities.

See also: Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh

3 – London

The United Kingdom’s capital city and seat of the country’s parliament and monarchy for over 800 years, London is one of the world’s top tourist destinations.

The long list of must-see sights and best tourist attractions in London include Buckingham Palace — home to Queen Elizabeth II , The London Eye observation wheel and Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.

Check out some of the amazing free and best museums in London such as The British Museum, Tate Britain and Tate Modern and the Royal Observatory.

Explore the many royal parks and gardens such as Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park and see the famous castle prison, the Tower of London .

Visitors can find some of the world’s best museums, galleries and historic palaces right here in the city of London.

See also: Fun Things to Do in London

4 – Oxford

World-famous for its illustrious university, Oxford has charm by the barrel and features leafy avenues, a bustling city center and tons of history to discover.

The first stop on a visit to the city should be Oxford University — which is often ranked as the top university in the world . Tour the hallowed halls of this renowned institution which was established in 1096 — making it the world’s second-oldest still operating university .

Explore the UK’s oldest Botanical Garden and its surrounding woodland of 130 acres or visit The Ashmolean, the country’s first public museum to see its collection of esteemed artworks.

Take a ride down the city’s famous canals on a punt or discover the treasures of the Pitt Rivers Museum. Oxford is overflowing with captivating attractions.

See also: Fun Things to Do in Oxford

5 – Harry Potter Studio

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London takes visitors inside the magic of the Harry Potter movies .

Visit famous locations and sets from the movies, including the Great Hall of Hogwart’s, Diagon Alley and the Forbidden Forest. Visit Platform 9 3/4 and see the famous Hogwart’s Express.

Glimpse the detailed model of Hogwarts School — which was used for exterior shots of the building, and see artifacts, props and clothing worn in the making of the movies.

Go behind the scenes to the studio’s Special FX and Art departments to see how the amazing creatures and action sequences were brought to life. This is a must-see for Harry Potter fans.

• Harry Potter Studio tickets

Sold out? Read about Harry Potter Studio last-minute tickets .

6 – Stonehenge

The mysterious history of Stonehenge is only part of what makes it so fascinating.

The famous stone circle was constructed around 2,500 B.C. and its surroundings are particularly rich in archaeological history and sites , some of which may date back as far as 8,000 B.C .

The smaller bluestones, which weigh between two to five tons each, were transported over 180 miles from quarries in Wales using prehistoric technology.

There are many legends that surround the site and its use. Many historians believe it functioned as an ancient form of the calendar , as well as a meeting place for religious ceremonies.

Discover the ancient secrets of Stonehenge for yourself — one of the most famous prehistoric monuments in the world and one of the best places to visit in the UK for history lovers.

• Stonehenge tours from London

7 – Windsor

The Borough of Windsor is most famous for Windsor Castle , the preferred weekend residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

The castle is the world’s largest and oldest inhabited castle and has been home to the country’s royalty for 1,000 years. Visitors can take a tour of the castle to see its staterooms and the fabulous St. George’s Chapel which is over 500 years old.

Other popular attractions in and around Windsor include The town of Eton , famous for its prestigious college, The Windsor Guildhall which was designed by Christopher Wren, and the historic Windsor Great Park which covers nearly 5,000 acres.

The very royal borough of Windsor offers tranquil towns and villages just a short step from the bustling center of London.

• Windsor Castle day trips from London

8 – Brighton

The seaside resort of Brighton has long been a weekend getaway for Londoners in search of fresh air and sea breeze.

The Royal Pavillion is one of the most mesmerizing Brighton attractions. This luxurious royal palace with eastern-influenced architecture was built in the 1820s as a coastal getaway for King George IV. Visitors can tour the palace as well as the museum and grounds.

There is a lot to see in this attraction-packed city too. Take a stroll along Brighton Pier for classic rides and amusements, or browse the hip independent shops and cafes of The Lanes.

Grab fantastic vies from the British Airways i360 observation tower or take a seafront trip on The Volk’s Electric Railway for a vintage British seaside experience. Brighton is a whole lot of fun!

See also: Fun Things to do in Brighton

9 – Yorkshire Dales

The green and unspoiled hills of the Yorkshire Dales hold many hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered.

The spectacular waterfalls of Aysgarth, Hardraw Force and Linton draw visitors from miles around. The rocky scenery of Malham Cove is popular with walkers and the dramatic ravine of Gordale Scar apparently was an inspiration for J.R.R Tolkien when writing “The Lord of the Rings.”

There are lots of great towns and villages to explore in the Dales, including Richmond, Hawes and Malham, and many great country pubs to grab lunch and a drink in.

Explore the underground cave systems that run throughout the park and see the miles of drystone walls that give the region its iconic look. The impressive Ribblehead Viaduct has appeared in many movies and television series , most famously in the “Harry Potter” movies.

10 – Bath

Steeped in ancient history, the Roman town of Bath is brimming with great cultural institutions , shopping opportunities and Classically-inspired architecture .

The famous Roman Baths , from which the city gets its name, are one of the highlights. Visitors can learn more about them through engaging exhibits and CGI reconstructions .

Why not take advantage of the city’s mineral-rich spring water with a soak at Thermae Bath Spa ?

Visit The Jane Austen Center to discover more about the popular writer or step back in time as you stroll along the 18th century Pulteney Bridge with its varied shops and boutiques.

There is a diverse selection of museums to explore in the city too. Art lovers should check out the Holburne Museum and Victoria Art Gallery and history fans can discover Georgian-era life at No.1 Royal Crescent . The Fashion Museum displays stylish clothing items from the 17th-century to the present day.

11 – Dartmoor

Devon’s green and unspoiled national park , Dartmoor is one of the best places to visit in the UK for nature lovers.

Keep your eyes peeled for the wild Dartmoor ponies which are an attractive sight to see on your exploration of the park. Meet the animals at Dartmoor Zoo or explore the Iron Age site at Grimspound .

Discover the historic ruins of Okehampton Castle or climb the high rope courses at the gorgeous River Dart Country Park.

The Buckfast Butterfly Farm and Otter Sanctuary is a great place to visit with kids and the impressive gothic architecture of Buckfast Abbey is a must-see when visiting the area.

12 – Cotswolds

The picturesque limestone villages of the Cotswolds are an idyllic place to explore and a quintessentially English experience.

One of the most popular things to do in the Cotswolds is to take a guided tour or to explore the area by car to see all the charming villages.

Adventurous visitors can hike the Cotswold Way, a nearly 100-mile path through some of the country’s most attractive villages.

Gloucester and Cirencester are some of the larger places to visit with attractions such as Gloucester Cathedral and the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Steam Railway .

There are a number of stunning gardens to visit such as the Batsford and Westonbirt Arboretums, and the grounds of Highgrove House, which is home to Prince Charles .

13 – York

The ancient walled city of York is one of the UK’s most popular northern destinations. It was founded by the Romans in the year 71 A.D. and has some fine historical attractions.

Visitors can brush up on the city’s Viking history at the Jorvik Centre or explore the Medieval lanes of The Shambles — allegedly the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter movies.

Discover the impressive and historic York Minster which dates back to the 13th century and the city’s more recent history at York Castle Museum.

Delve into the city’s grisly past at The York Dungeon or take a spooky guided tour of the city to unearth the shadowy characters that have called York home.

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in York

14 – Cardiff

The Welsh Capital is famous for its attractive surrounding landscapes and its plentiful historic castles and houses .

St Fagan’s National Museum of History takes us back in time to the Celtic era . Discover old-fashioned roundhouses , ancient skills and how the people of the region lived in years gone by.

Cardiff Castle is a must-see on a trip to the city along with almost fairytale Castle Coch. Explore the National Museum of Cardiff to discover its collection of artworks, decorative arts and natural history — and grab some fresh air on a visit to the delightful Roath and Bute parks .

Sports fans should check out the Principality Stadium for the best in Welsh Rugby action or check out a show at the Wales Millenium Center.

15 – Lake District

The Lake District is considered to be one of the UK’s most picturesque landscapes and has been inspiring artists and writers for centuries.

If your time is limited, take a private tour of the countryside to see a lot of the Lakes’ highlights in a short time. Outdoors people can explore the many pathways and hills or take an adventure tour through the hills and valleys.

Popular hiking locations include the Old Man of Coniston, Helvellyn and Loughrigg Fell which are achievable for most people.

Visit the popular towns of Windermere, Keswick and Penrith and tour the sites that enchanted Beatrix Potter while writing her famous children’s books .

You are sure to want to return to the Lake District again and again.

16 – Manchester

Bustling Manchester is a hive of activity and there’s a lot to see and do. It is North England’s largest city and is packed with busy shopping streets, markets, museums and galleries.

Visiting the famous Etihad and Old Trafford Stadiums — the respective homes of football teams Manchester City and Manchester United , are always popular with sports fans.

Explore the Science and Industry Museum to discover why Manchester is known as the “first industrial City” and visit the magnificent Neo-Gothic John Rylands Library .

See natural history exhibits at the Manchester Museum or glimpse stunning artworks at the Manchester Art Gallery.

Manchester is world-renowned for its musical legacy. Join a tour of the city to learn about some of its most legendary acts , including Joy Division, The Smiths and Oasis.

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Manchester

17 – Glasgow

Lying along the banks of the River Clyde, Glasgow has a lot of cultural and architectural delights to explore.

Discover the attractive Victorian-era platforms of Glasgow Central Station or check out the Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel to discover the past and future of vehicles in the city.

Take a tour of Glasgow Cathedral and its centuries-old Necropolis and check out the beautiful architecture of George Square, which has statues of the poets Robert Burns and Thomas Campbell.

On an evening, explore the lively West End with its bars, restaurants and live music venues or catch a performance at The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.

Historic Glasgow is just waiting to be explored!

See also: Fun Things to Do in Glasgow

18 – Belfast

Northern Ireland’s capital and its largest city, Belfast is a historic east coast port and industrial center.

The infamous Titanic was constructed in Belfast in 1909 and the city has a museum to the ill-fated ship. Titanic Belfast allows visitors to explore the ship with innovative exhibits such as rides, special FX and immersive reconstructions.

There are more historic ships to visit in the city too, including HMS Caroline and the SS Nomadic .

Discover the artworks of the Peace Wall which documents “The Troubles” in Northern Ireland or visit the notorious Crumlin Road Gaol which housed political prisoners.

Take a shopping spree at the Victorian-era St George’s Market or explore the city’s creative hub, the Cathedral Quarter . The old-fashioned Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful respite from the bustling city center.

See also: Fun Things to Do in Belfast

19 – Cambridge

The historic university town of Cambridge has been home to many of the country’s greatest scholars. It has a wealth of Classical architecture and charm and is one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations.

The University of Cambridge is one of the must-see places on a trip to the city. Grab a guided tour of one of its famous colleges such as King’s College or St. John’s to discover the 800-year history of the University .

Take a journey down the river in one of the town’s famous gondola-style “punts” and pick up some history on the way.

Explore the historic town center, including Market Square and discover fascinating world history and artifacts at the Fitzwilliam Museum .

There are many architectural wonders to discover in Cambridge, making it a stunning place to visit at any time of the year.

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Cambridge

20 – Isle of Wight

For adventure lovers and those who love to be in the great outdoors, the Isle of Wight is a fantastic destination.

The famous Needles rock formations are explorable by boat tour or kayak and the miles of coastline offer everything from fossil hunting at Compton Bay to surf spots at Freshwater Bay.

Explore Osborne House, the favorite home of Queen Victoria and walk the picturesque Coastal Footpath between the towns of Sandown and Shanklin .

There are plenty of family-friendly attractions to enjoy too such as Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Monkey Haven and the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary and the spectacular Shanklin Chine gorge and gardens.

21 – Alton Towers

One of the UK’s most thrilling and adventure-packed theme park resorts, Alton Towers offers tons of fun for the whole family.

The largest theme park in England , Alton Towers covers 500 acres in the Staffordshire countryside and is home to some of the world’s most extreme roller coasters .

Some of the park’s most exhilarating rides include Nemesis, Wicker Man and The Smiler — the first 14-loop roller coaster in the world .

Little ones need not miss out either as the park’s CBeebies Land is designed specifically with them in mind, and features gentle rides and play areas for them to discover.

The resort also has some excellent accommodation options , including Alton Towers Hotel, Luxury Treehouses and Stargazing Pods that are sure to make your stay in the park a memorable and happy one.

22 – Birmingham

The UK’s second-largest city after London, Birmingham is packed full of cultural venues, museums and historic locations to check out.

During the industrial era, the city was one of the most prosperous in the country. Take a trip back in time to some of its best historic locations, including the infamous Back to Back housing, Coffin Works and the Museum of the Jewelry Quarter to discover its most lucrative trades .

See an impressive collection of world history artifacts at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery or visit the National Motorcycle Museum to learn how British bikes — many of which were built here in Birmingham — conquered the world.

Visit the Birmingham Symphony Hall and Hippodrome to witness world-class theatrical and musical performances or check out the Library of Birmingham’s impressive collection of Shakespearean artifacts.

See also: Fun Things to Do in Birmingham, UK

23 – Scottish Highlands

For adventure lovers in search of the wildest reaches of the UK, The Scottish Highlands does not disappoint.

The area begins north of the city of Glasgow and includes almost 10,000 square miles of moody mountains, deep lochs and heather-strewn glens, as well as the occasional town or village.

One of the most thrilling ways to explore the Highlands is via the West Coast Railways Jacobite Steam Train, but it is equally stunning by bus or private car.

Some of its most popular locations are Ben Nevis, the UK’s largest mountain and the famous Loch Ness . The landscape here is popular with adventure sports lovers, especially the secluded town of Fort William.

Other popular towns to visit include the ancient city of Inverness , wild and picturesque Aviemore and the Glencoe Mountain Resort near the village of Ballachulish.

See also: Fun things to do in Inverness, Scotland

24 – Norwich

The attractive and leafy city of Norwich is a popular destination for travelers and boasts lively art and cultural scene .

Most famous for the Romanesque Norwich Cathedral which dates back to 1096 , Norwich has many other historic buildings and locations to explore.

The attractive Fenbrigg Hall is well worth visiting and Norwich Castle hosts a collection of artistic and antique treasures. The Elm Hill area of the city has some wonderful surviving examples of Tudor houses and quaint alleys to discover.

Norwich is a short journey to the picturesque Norfolk Broads, but also has many fine parks inside the city such as Plantation Garden, East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden and Eaton Park.

25 – Giant’s Causeway

The unique rock formations of Northern Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway have been the source of numerous legends over the centuries.

The most popular one tells of the giant, Finn McCool who threw the rocks into the sea to make a crossing to Scotland.

The unusual rock formations, which include almost 40,000 narrow columns look so neat as to appear man-made.

The Giant’s Causeway has appeared in a number of movies and television series, including Dracula Untold and Hellboy II: The Golden Army and as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

This unique geological feature is one of Northern Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions.

• Giant’s Causeway day trips from Dublin

Read more: Most Beautiful Places in Europe , Game of Thrones Tours from Dublin

26 – Chessington World of Adventures Resort

One of the best places to visit in the UK for families with older kids, Chessington World of Adventure has over 40 rides and attractions .

The park also has the Zoo and Sea Life center which is home to over 1,000 creatures, such as lions, penguins and gorillas. Visitors can come face-to-face with penguins , capybaras, giraffes and a whole host of exotic creatures.

The park also has thrilling rides and almost a dozen exotic-themed lands to discover. Take on the dizzying heights of the Croc Drop or face the wrath of the Dragon’s Fury .

Chessington also has a lot of great shows and entertainment, and seasonal events to enjoy.

27 – Hadrian’s Wall

During the Roman occupation of Britain, Emperor Hadrian ordered a defensive wall to keep the problematic northern tribes out of Roman Britain.

The remains of the wall, which spanned the whole width of the country — almost 73 miles, are still visible in places. Visit sites of numerous Roman fortifications , including Housesteads, Chesters and Birdsowald.

The Roman Army Museum in Hexham gives an interesting depiction of life in Roman Britain for the empire’s soldiers as well as artifacts excavated along the length of the wall.

Explore many sections of the wall and other bits of ancient fortifications across the country such as Walltown Crags, Vindolanda, Milecast 48 and Cawfield’s Roman Wall .

28 – Cornwall

One of the UK’s favorite holiday destinations, Cornwall is rich in Celtic history and has a stunning landscape of rugged cliffs, beautiful fishing villages and wide open moorlands.

A popular UK surf destination , Cornwall takes pride in its beaches like Fistral, Gwithian and Praa Sands, creating over 6-foot waves on a good day.

Visitors return to this area for its many postcard-worthy towns and fishing ports to name, but Falmouth, St Ives, St Austell, Bude and Fowey are all must-see destinations.

Some stunning historical ruins and castles to visit include Pendennis Castle, Tintagel Castle, the supposed home of King Arthur , and the beautiful Minack Theatre which is one of the UK’s most stunning outdoor concert venues.

Cornwall is definitely one of the most enchanting places in the whole of Britain for explorers and nature lovers.

29 – Bristol

The fun and occasionally unconventional city of Bristol is packed with cultural gems, grand architecture and great museums .

The historic port city has a number of maritime landmarks to discover such as the SS Great Britain , designed in the mid-19th century by the engineering mastermind, Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Another of Brunel’s masterpieces the Clifton Suspension Bridge has graced the city skyline since 1836. Visitors can take a walking tour of the bridge to discover what makes it so unique.

Those with a particular interest in architecture and history can also explore Cabot Tower, Wills Memorial Building and the historic Bristol City Docks .

The city also has a number of world-class museums to explore such as the We the Curious Science Museum and the expansive Bristol Museum and Art Gallery.

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Bristol

30 – Swansea

The second-largest city in Wales, Swansea has a stunning coastline that offers many opportunities for those who prefer to explore on foot.

Some of the finest walking locations in the area include the Gower Peninsula which boasts impressive rock formations and turquoise water . There are many attractive and wide-open beaches here also such as Three Cliffs Bay, Oxwich Bay and the popular Caswell Bay.

The nearby village of Mumbles is a small but bustling fishing village. There are a number of great gardens and parks to explore around the city such as Clyne Gardens and Pennllergare Valley Woods.

The Dylan Thomas Centre — dedicated to the celebrated local poet, is a must-visit for arts and literature fans.

31 – Winchester

The historic city of Winchester has been home to some of the country’s most illustrious figures.

The city dates back to Roman times and was England’s very first capital city . Visitors can explore its narrow and quaint streets which feature very old timber-frame and brick buildings.

Winchester Cathedral is over 900 years old and is packed with historic treasures, including a Winchester Bible and a Tournai Font which date from 1150. The Cathedral has stunning gothic architecture and is the final resting place of the famed author Jane Austen.

The Great Hall dates back to the 13th century and was once part of Winchester Castle. It houses the famous round table of King Arthur .

There are many other attractive areas of the city to visit, including the Hospital of St Cross, Winchester City Mill and the South Downs Way , which extends all the way to Eastbourne on the South Coast.

32 – Peak District

Covering over 500 square miles, the gently rolling hills of the peak district are a popular destination for hikers and outdoor adventurers .

Some of the best walks in the region include the Monsal Trail — which runs along a former railway line, Tissington Trail and Kinder Scout .

Check out some beautiful reservoirs in the area, including the Derwent Dam and Ladybower Reservoir, and the wildlife conservation area of Longshaw Estate .

There are plenty of attractions for those who aren’t into walking, such as the caves and rock formations of Speedwell Caverns and Treak Cliff Cavern .

The stunning country manor of Chatsworth House , home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, has lots to see including a renowned art collection and fantastic gardens.

33 – Bamburgh Castle

The epic Bamburgh Castle might be one of the most photogenic castles in the whole world.

The castle is still the home of the Armstrong family , who have resided there since the mid-1800s but its roots extend back over 1,000 years.

The site has been excavated by archeologists who have uncovered a number of artifacts including an Anglo-Saxon sword and gold decorations .

The castle was restyled by William Armstrong in the Victorian era who gave it its current interior look. Visitors can explore the Armory — which has an impressive collection of suits of armor, beautiful staterooms and the medieval-style King’s Hall.

Bamburgh Castle is sure to impress.

34 – Shetland Islands

Lying just off of Scotland, the Shetland Islands are home to some fascinating historic sites and ancient ruins.

The Viking and Nordic heritage of the island is well represented at the Viking Longhouse and the Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement.

The Shetland Museum and Archives has some interesting exhibits about the history of the area, and Mousa Iron Age Broch is one of the best-surviving forts from the era.

Discover the windswept Banna Minn Beach, Hermaness Nature Reserve and the towering Sumburgh Head Lighthouse on the southern tip of the mainland.

Visitors can check out the unique Bobby’s Bus Shelter on a tour of Unst isle for some lighthearted installation art.

35 – Canterbury

The ancient walled city of Canterbury dates back to Roman-era Britain and is rich in historic architecture.

Parts of Canterbury Cathedral date back to the year 597 AD when it was founded. The impressive structure is home to the Thomas Beckett Shrine .

The award-winning Beaney House of Art and Knowledge is a must-see museum when visiting the city. It hosts state-of-the-art exhibitions, as well as an art gallery and library all housed in a Tudor revival building.

Some of the city’s other important landmarks include Christ Church Gate , the attractive Westgate Gardens and Franciscan Gardens, and St. Augustine’s Abbey. The Canterbury  Roman Museum offers interesting insights into the city’s past .

36 – White Cliffs of Dover

For millennia, the iconic White Cliffs of Dover have been a symbolic sight for travelers returning and departing the continent.

The shining chalk limestone cliffs tower above the Straight of Dover — which is the shortest distance between the UK and Mainland Europe, and on a clear day, visitors can see the coast of France .

See and hike a number of trails with spectacular views of the coastline, or explore the World War II tunnel complex of Fan Bay Deep Shelter.

The area is also a terrific place to spot wildlife such as ravens, kittiwakes, falcons and gulls.

37 – Thorpe Park Resort

One of the UK’s most popular theme park resorts, Thorpe Park has an abundance of thrilling roller coasters, chilling rides and fun attractions.

Ride the Nemesis Inferno or the horror-themed Saw: The Ride . Take a spin on the towering Colossus — the world’s first 10-loop roller coaster or experience super-fast acceleration on Stealth.

The park has plenty of scary attractions too, including Derren Brown’s Ghost Train and the Walking Dead Ride , both of which combine live-action horror and spooky effects.

Black Mirror Labyrinth based on the popular TV show is one of the park’s newest attractions.

There are also plenty of family-friendly rides and amusements for younger kids to enjoy. Thorpe Park is fun for the whole family.

38 – Snowdonia

The stunning mountainous region of Wales, Snowdonia, attracts many thousands of visitors annually to explore its rugged landscap e.

The area is a popular spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, and there are hundreds of trails to explore in the area which offer incredible views throughout.

The town of Betws-y-Coed is considered the gateway to the Snowdonia National Park and is a jumping-off point for many explorers.

Mount Snowdon or Yr Wyddfa in Welsh is the focal point of the park and the tallest mountain in Wales . It is a fairly easy hike and achievable for most people. The largest Welsh lake , Llyn Tegid, can also be found in the Snowdon National Park.

One of the most fun attractions in the region is Zip World Fforest which has treetop rope courses to explore and a forest toboggan ride.

39 – Stratford-upon-Avon

Most famous for its association with William Shakespeare, the picturesque riverside town of Stratford-upon-Avon has lots to discover for history and literature fans.

Visitors can see the birthplace of Shakespeare and the cottage where Anne Hathaway — Shakespeare’s wife not the actor, lived before they were married.

You can also see the church where the couple is buried and other important landmarks such as the Schoolrooms and Guildhall where “The Bard” studied, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre which performs some of the writer’s most famous works.

Even if you are not a Shakespeare enthusiast, Stratford has plenty to see and do. Walk the attractive streets and leafy parks and gardens of the town. Soak up its historical ambiance or visit the Stratford Butterfly Farm which is supposedly the largest in Europe .

40 – Blackpool

The glitzy seaside attractions of Blackpool have been drawing visitors and holidaymakers to the town for decades.

The famous Blackpool Pleasure Beach features classic roller coaster rides and amusements that are fun for the whole family.

The famous Blackpool Tower is the town’s most iconic landmark and visitors can explore its glass-floored observation deck for the best views over the coastline.

Visit the fun Madame Tussauds wax museum and see amazing exotic creatures at the British seaside at Blackpool Zoo and SEA LIFE Blackpool.

Catch a show at the fantastic Blackpool Tower Ballroom or enjoy an evening of cabaret at Viva Blackpool.

Don’t miss the magnificent Victorian architecture of the Winter Gardens , one of the city’s most popular entertainment venues.

41 – Dunluce Castle

There has been a settlement at Dunluce Castle for almost 2,000 years and the current ruins date to the 17th and 18th centuries.

The ruined structure which overlooks the sea has inspired artists, writers and filmmakers with its romantic appearance. It has appeared in a number of movies and television series, including “Game of Thrones” where it doubled as the Iron Islands.

It was the seat of the battling McQuiland and MacDonell Clans from the 1600s who waged constant war with each other.

Dunluce Castle is thought to have been the inspiration for the hit C.S Lewis stories in “The Chronicles of Narnia.”

42 – Cairngorms

The wild and picturesque Cairngorms in the Eastern Highlands of Scotland are strewn with lush green valleys and picturesque lochs to discover.

This national park is home to some of the highest mountains and plateaus in Scotland and the British isles.

It’s not without its famous residents too. Balmoral Castle is the famous holiday residence of Queen Elizabeth II and is open to the public through the summer months.

Some of the most impressive sites in the area include attractive lakes like Loch Morlich, An Lochan Auaine — also known as the Green Loch and Loch an Eilein.

The Cairngorm Mountain Resort is a popular spot for winter sports adventures in the area.

43 – Jurassic Coast

Spanning from Exmouth in Devon to Old Harry Rocks in Dorset, the Jurassic Coast is one of the UK’s longest coastal trails .

The name comes from the many fossils from the Jurassic Period that have been found on the cliffs of the region — although there have also been plenty of Triassic and Cretaceous objects discovered too.

Visitors can walk in the actual footsteps of Dinosaurs at Keates Quarry , Spyway , or hunt for fossils along almost a hundred miles of coastline.

Take a guided tour of the best fossils and fossil hunting grounds along the Dorset coast, or kayak around the famous Durdle Door rock formation.

44 – LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort

One of the best places to visit in the UK for children aged up to 12, Legoland Windsor Resort is jam-packed with rides , attractions and opportunities to build and create .

The park has 12 different lands to discover and fantastic rides for kids of all ages such as the exhilarating and theatrical Flight of the Sky Lion, the interactive and watery Hydra’s Challenge and the magical flying roller coaster, The Dragon .

Explore the underwater world of the City Deep Sea Adventure or get goosebumps as you brave the Haunted House Monster Party.

There are lots of opportunities to get creative too at the Creature Creation, LEGO Education Center and Model Making Studios . A trip to Legoland is sure to be a trip to remember.

45 – Loch Ness

On the hunt for Nessie or just taking in the Highland scenery? Loch Ness is an awe-inspiring sight.

Reportedly the loch contains more water than all of the lakes in England and Wales Combined. It is the second-largest in Scotland and extends for over 22 miles. At its deepest point, it reaches 225 meters, making it the second deepest Scottish loch after Loch Morar .

Some stunning attractions in the area include the ruins of Urquhart Castle which juts out dramatically into the loch and the historic Fort Augustus .

The waterfalls of Foyers , on the loch’s south bank, are situated in dense woodland and the area is a particularly beautiful place to walk. From nearby, visitors can rent kayaks to explore Loch Ness in all its glory.

Alternatively, try one of the many bus and boat tours offered in the area.

46 – Brecon Beacons

The Brecon Beacons mountain range in South Wales is an outdoor adventure paradise at any time of the year.

Located in the heart of nature, the area has many excellent walking and cycling trails to discover. Some of the most picturesque hikes are the Four Waterfalls trail near the village of Ystradfellte, The Brecon Horseshoe circular route and the Pen y Fan trail.

There is an excellent system of waterways and canals that are perfect for exploring by kayak or paddleboard. Many kayakers launch from Brecon Promenade on the River Usk although the Brecon Basins Canal is also excellent.

Take a guided tour or adventure tour to discover the best natural landmarks and most stunning scenic areas in this awesome part of the Welsh countryside.

47 – Warwick Castle

One of the best places to visit in the Uk for history lovers, Warwick Castle brings medieval history to life .

The thousand-year-old castle is one of the best-preserved in the country and presents a whole program of action-packed themed events and attractions for visitors to see.

Younger kids especially will be enthralled by the historic fun on display, including battle reenactments, falconry displays, tours of the castle’s infamous dungeons and much more.

The live-action displays and knowledgeable staff will ignite your family’s curiosity.

Explore the castle’s stunning grounds, including its Great Hall and State Rooms, see full-size medieval weapons, and explore the interactive Maze based on the “Horrible Histories” TV Series. Warwick Castle is lots of fun!

48 – Norfolk Broads

A popular area for boating and beloved by anglers , the Norfolk Broads offers a peaceful place to escape from it all in the heart of nature.

While it’s best to explore the region by foot or by bike, many hire a boat and travel at their own pace through the Broads.

There is a diverse amount of wildlife to see in the woodlands and wetland areas, including otters, eels and water voles, as well as many types of wading birds like bitterns, cranes and herons.

The village of Wroxham , known as the “capital of the broads” is a nice place to explore and offers a number of boat hire options.

A trip on the Bure Valley miniature railway between Wroxham and Aylsham is a fun way to see the sights.

We hope you enjoyed this list of the best places to visit in the UK to help you plan your next vacation.

Let us know in the comments below which place is your favorite one.

As always, happy travels!