20 best places to visit in england

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25 Best Things to Do in England

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

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

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

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

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

1. London: Chinatown

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

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

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

2. Cambridge: Cambridge University

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

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

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

3. Cornwall: The Eden Project

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

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

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

4. Liverpool: Maritime Mercantile City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Northern England: Hadrian’s Wall

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

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

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

7. Durham: Durham Castle

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

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

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

8. York: York Minster

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

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

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

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

9. London: The British Museum

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

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

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

10. London: Royal Observatory, Greenwich

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

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

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

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

11. London: Soho

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Warwick, Warwickshire: Warwick Castle

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

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

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

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

14. Cumbria: Lake District National Park

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

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

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

15. London: Madam Tussaud’s Wax Museum

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

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

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

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

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

16. Cornwall: Lizard Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Gloucestershire: The Cotswolds

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

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

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

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

19. Woodstock, Oxfordshire: Blenheim Palace

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

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

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

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

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

20. London: Natural History Museum

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

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

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

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

21. Berkshire: Windsor Castle

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

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

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

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

22. Pilton, Somerset: Glastonbury Festival

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

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

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

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

23. Salisbury, Wiltshire: Salisbury Cathedral

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

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

The church tower is open to the public and visitors can view the rather spectacular wooden innards of the ancient spire.

The cathedral also plays home to the world’s oldest working clock which was crafted in 1386, and the best surviving copy of the Magna Carta (there are four original copies in all) is safely held within the cathedral walls.

24. Canterbury, Kent: Canterbury Cathedral

Arguably the most popular of Christian structures within England, Canterbury Cathedral is the home to the Archbishop of Canterbury, the principal leader and senior bishop of the Church of England as well as the symbolic head of the global Anglican Communion.

The cathedral was founded in 597 and reconstructed between 1070 and 1077. Further renovation occurred in 1174 when it was bestowed with a more Gothic style at which point it housed pilgrims as they ventured to worship at the shrine of Thomas Becket, who was the Archbishop of Canterbury until the year 1170 when he was unceremoniously murdered.

25. Wiltshire: Stonehenge

Stonehenge in Wiltshire is considered to be among the most remarkable sites within the entire modern world.

The prehistoric monument, which comprises stones that reach up to 30 ft. (9 m) in height and weigh up to 25 tons (22.6 metric tons), is thought to have been constructed around 3,000 to 2,000 BC, though the exact dates remain open to question.

The site was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1986, and although it is not entirely clear as to its true purpose, a number of studies have suggested that Stonehenge was utilized as a burial ground by Neolithic and Bronze Age peoples.

25 Best Things to Do in England:

• London: Chinatown
• Cambridge: Cambridge University
• Cornwall: The Eden Project
• Liverpool: Maritime Mercantile City
• Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and Gloucestershire: Malvern Hills and Commons
• Northern England: Hadrian’s Wall
• Durham: Durham Castle
• York: York Minster
• London: The British Museum
• London: Royal Observatory, Greenwich
• London: Soho
• Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire: William Shakespeare’s Home
• Warwick, Warwickshire: Warwick Castle
• Cumbria: Lake District National Park
• London: Madam Tussaud’s Wax Museum
• Cornwall: Lizard Peninsula
• East Devon to Dorset: Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site
• Gloucestershire: The Cotswolds
• Woodstock, Oxfordshire: Blenheim Palace
• London: Natural History Museum
• Berkshire: Windsor Castle
• Pilton, Somerset: Glastonbury Festival
• Salisbury, Wiltshire: Salisbury Cathedral
• Canterbury, Kent: Canterbury Cathedral
• Wiltshire: Stonehenge

15 of the best things to do in England

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

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

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

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

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

1. Walk the magnificent medieval walls of York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Hit the world’s greatest museums in London

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

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

5. Cycle through the heart of England 

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

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

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

7. Surf the waves of Cornwall's wild coastline

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

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

8. Take a sea-sprayed train ride in Devon

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

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

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

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

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

10. Get lost in the lanes of Brighton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Eat fish and chips on the harbor at Whitby

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

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

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

15. Embrace Beatlemania in Liverpool

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

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

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

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28 places you should visit in England

Updated On 28th February, 2024

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

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

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

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

Other posts you may be interested in…

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

EXPLORE ENGLAND ON MY BLOG HERE

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

1. brighton.

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

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

See my weekend guide to Brighton here.

2. The New Forest

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

3. Cambridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out my guide to Norfolk here.

8. Somerset and Wiltshire

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

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

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

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

9. Manchester

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

10. Cornwall

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

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

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

Cornwall Google Map Legend

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

11. Canterbury

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

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

12. Winchester

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

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

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

EXPLORE LONDON ON MY BLOG HERE

14. Isle of Wight

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

15. The Lake District

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

UK National Parks Google Map Legend

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

EXPLORE THE UK ON MY BLOG HERE

16. Northumberland

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

17. Suffolk

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

EXPLORE ROAD TRIPS ON MY BLOG HERE

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

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

18. The Cotswolds

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

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

19. South Downs

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

Check out my trip to the South Downs here.

20. Liverpool

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

21. Birmingham

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

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

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

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

Devon Google Map Legend

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

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

25. Newcastle upon Tyne

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

26. The Peak District

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

Check out my weekend in the Peak District here.

27. Yorkshire

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

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

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

28. Warwick

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

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

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

Where are your favourite places to visit in England?

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

Love as always and happy adventuring,

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20 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Dive into history as you explore the castles, cities and villages that dot the green landscape. And leave time to see some of the most exciting cities in the world. Welcome to the United Kingdom !

The UK is made up of 4 individual nations: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. But what are the best places to visit in the UK?

Read on, and you’ll discover 20 of the UK’s top destinations in this round-up of travel wish list-worthy attractions.

• Experience the highlights of England, Scotland and Wales on a UK self-drive tour

A stay in London  may be the highlight of your trip to England . Admittedly, you could spend weeks in England’s vast capital, exploring its lush parks, elegant terraces, and world-class museums and art galleries. So, if you have just a few days here, you’ll find plenty to fill your time.

For example, you could visit the Tower of London , the medieval complex that Edward I and other monarchs called their home. Then, head to the Houses of Parliament, where you’ll find the historic “ Big Ben ” clock tower. And don’t miss Tower Bridge , one of the most photographed bridges in the world.

In the evening, why not see a show? Wander through the West End to find prestigious theatres and opera houses. Or you can search for a gig in the many venues and pubs across the city.

• See London’s iconic sights on a guided small group tour of the UK

2. Edinburgh

London may be almost 20 times bigger, but Scotland ’s capital, Edinburgh , is just as appealing. Visit the UNESCO-listed Old and New Towns to fall in love with its cobbled streets, impressive Gothic architecture, and welcoming atmosphere.

Stroll along the Royal Mile , the street that connects Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace , the King’s official residence in Scotland. Then, walk up Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill for stunning views over the city.

Come to Scotland in August to experience the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world. Or visit Scotland at Christmastime to enjoy the Christmas markets and festive feel.

• Stay in the city and enjoy day trips into the countryside on a multi-day tour from Edinburgh
• Related: Amazing things to do in Edinburgh

3. Lake District

Venture out of the bustling cities to the Lake District , one of the most beautiful places in the UK. Known for its craggy hills, quaint villages, and glistening lakes, it’s an unmissable stop on any tour of England.

Windermere is the best-known of the lakes, but Coniston Water and Ullswater have as much allure. Whichever you choose, you’ll find idyllic mountain views, peaceful walks, and plenty of boating opportunities.

While you're here, you'll glimpse the rocky summit of Scafell Pike . At 3,209 feet (978 metres) above sea level, it's the highest mountain in England.

• Related: Things to see and do in the Lake District

4. Isle of Skye

Witness towering peaks that plunge into the sea and discover fishing villages tucked away in tranquil bays. Take cliff-top walks with views over distant archipelagos. Come to the Isle of Skye , and you can expect all this and more.

Skye is an island off Scotland’s west coast where you’ll find some of the most enchanting landscapes the UK has to offer. This includes the iconic pinnacle known as the Old Man of Storr , as well as the Cuillin , one of the UK’s most dramatic mountain ranges.

Check out Armadale or Dunvegan Castle while you’re here to learn about the island’s fascinating and sometimes bloody history. And, of course, stop for a local whisky in one of Skye’s distilleries.

• Explore pristine nature in the Highlands and islands on a Scottish self-drive tour
• Related: Isle of Skye – Top things to see & do

York  has been an important place in England for thousands of years. Its gripping history makes it one of the top attractions to visit in the UK.

The Romans founded York in 71 CE, although people likely lived here long before. Afterwards, the Saxons and the Vikings occupied the city. But most of what you’ll see today was built in the medieval period.

Stroll down the Shambles, the best-preserved medieval street in Europe. Then, explore the Roman walls that surround the city. Undoubtedly, it’s one of the most striking cities in the UK.

• Discover top sights on a tour of England
• Related: Visiting the UK – Travel tips from a local expert

When the Romans ruled England about 2,000 years ago, they changed the face of the country. Today, there’s nowhere better for you to see their legacy than in the city of Bath , Somerset.

As you might have guessed, Bath gets its name from the Roman baths in the city centre. The thermal spas are exceptionally well-preserved, and the magnificent architecture shows off the Romans’ skill. Taking a tour of the city is like stepping back in time.

Not to mention, Bath was granted UNESCO protection twice. First, for its Roman archaeology and Georgian architecture, and secondly, for being one of “The Great Spa Towns of Europe”.

Just next door is the beautiful and austere Bath Abbey. It’s been a place of Christian worship for over a thousand years.

• Related: Where is Bridgerton filmed?

7. Loch Ness

By some measurements, Loch Ness is Scotland’s largest lake. It’s an enormous body of water, stretching 23 miles (36 kilometres) from the city of Inverness through the heart of the Scottish Highlands. For this reason alone, it’s one of the most alluring places to see in the UK.

But what really makes Loch Ness special is that it’s the alleged home of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster.

Take a boat tour to try to spot Nessie for yourself, or explore the coast for insights into Scotland’s enthralling history. For instance, visit Urquhart Castle , and you’ll learn about the ancient struggles for power between Highland clans.

• Take a Scottish Highland tour to experience the magic of the mountains
• Related: Top things to see and do in the UK

Set among gentle green hills, Oxford  is an inviting and compact city. Most of its beauty comes from the spectacular university buildings that make up much of the city centre.

Founded in the 11th century, the University of Oxford is the oldest in the UK . But it’s the mix of old and new that adds to the city’s appeal. Visit the Bodleian Library, where you’ll see a captivating combination of medieval architecture and state-of-the-art exhibitions on culture and books.

If you’re a movie fan, Oxford is also a great place to see some blockbuster filming locations. For example, scenes from Harry Potter, X-Men , and Transformers were shot here.

• Related: Top literary sites to visit on your UK tour

9. Peak District

At the very heart of England lies the Peak District, an area of rolling hills, picturesque valleys, and traditional villages. It's one of the best places to come for a taste of rural England at its prettiest.

Stop off at Bakewell, on the banks of the River Wye. It’s a charming town packed with friendly pubs, delightful cottages, and tea rooms serving delicious Bakewell tart, a raspberry jam and almond dessert.

Nearby, you’ll find Chatsworth House, a grand palace owned by the Devonshire family. Its dreamy gardens and impressive art collection make for a fascinating visit.

10. Stonehenge

Stonehenge  is among the best-preserved prehistoric monuments in the world.

The towering circle of standing stones dates back to around 3,000 BCE. There’s evidence it was used as a burial ground, as well as a shrine to celebrate the sun’s movements. While its origins remain a mystery, it’s one of the must-see places in the UK.

For an extra-special experience, visit in June during the summer solstice to celebrate the longest day of the year.

11. Llandudno

The Brits have a long-standing love for seaside towns. Located on the north coast of Wales , Llandudno  is known as known as the “Queen of Welsh Resorts”.

Here, you can enjoy what British holidaymakers have adored for hundreds of years. Ride a donkey along the sand, paddle in the sea or head to the end of the pier. And don’t forget to try the fresh fish and chips.

However you decide to experience the seaside, Llandudno is the perfect place to spend the afternoon.

12. Yorkshire Dales

When you imagine the English countryside, you might think of local pubs and thatched cottages. Head to the Yorkshire Dales National Park , and you’ll find all this and much more.

In English, “dale” is another word for valley, and you’ll discover many towns where the term appears. For instance, Wensleydale is a picturesque valley where you can see Aysgarth waterfall. Or go to Kirkby Lonsdale, a handsome market town packed with independent shops and cafés.

Wander towards Malham Cove, a spectacular cliff in the centre of the national park. With its tall waterfall and enormous blocks of limestone, Malham Cove deserves its reputation.

• Related: Cool facts about England

13. Loch Lomond & the Trossachs

If England is known for its gently rolling hills, Scotland is remembered for its dramatic landscapes. If you’re looking for stunning mountains, lakes and forests, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is among the best places to go in the UK.

Only a short distance from Glasgow , the Trossachs are home to some of the UK’s highest peaks. If you’re a hiker, reaching the top of one of these Munros – mountains above 3,000 feet (914 metres) – is a memorable Scottish experience.

Alternatively, tour the national park in your car and stop off at the gorgeous loch-side village of Luss . Or head to Doune Castle , where Outlander and Monty Python were filmed.

• Walk in the footsteps of the show’s main characters – Jamie and Claire – on an Outlander tour of Scotland
• Related:  Best time to visit the UK – Your complete guide

14. Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway , a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the top destinations on the island of Ireland . It’s an area of interlocking hexagonal columns created by an ancient volcanic eruption. You don’t want to miss these intriguing geometric forms overlooking the sea.

It’s said to be the remains of an ancient pathway between Scotland and Northern Ireland once used by giants. In good weather, you can make out the Scottish coast across the sea.

• Tour the Celtic nations together on a Scotland and Ireland package
• Related: Amazing Europe itinerary ideas

15. Glen Coe

Look at any guidebook of Scotland, and you’ll likely find a picture of Glen Coe . If you haven’t seen it, imagine a narrow valley between rugged mountains and imposing cliffs.

Like much of Scotland, the glen is a hiker’s paradise, but it’s much more than this. Head to the Glen Coe Visitor Centre to discover the area’s history. You’ll learn about the Massacre of Glencoe in 1692 and see a traditional turf and creel house .

Journey down the glen to where Loch Leven meets Loch Linnhe, a serene sea loch. Follow these waters inland towards the mountains, like Buachaille Etive Mòr, for one of the most naturally beautiful views in the country.

16. Eryri (“Snowdonia”) National Park

Wales is packed with natural wonders, but Eryri (“Snowdonia”) National Park is definitely one of the country’s most spectacular places. You can get from medieval ruins to rugged mountains in just a few miles.

Alongside breathtaking nature, Eryri is a historic place. You can visit old woollen mills, slate quarries, and grain stores, which tell the complex history of this nation.

Fancy something a little unusual? Visit Portmeirion , a village built in the 20th century in the architectural style of the Italian Riviera. You’re unlikely to find anything like it anywhere else.

Good to know : Snowdonia’s official name changed to Eryri in 2022 to better reflect its Welsh identity.

17. Hadrian’s Wall

York, Bath and London were important Roman settlements 2,000 years ago. But do you know where they didn’t manage to conquer in the UK?

The answer is Scotland. As the story goes, the Romans were concerned about warriors invading from north of the border. They were so worried that they built a barrier to keep them from coming into England.

That barricade is known as Hadrian’s Wall . You can find its ruins snaking their way for 73 miles (117 kilometres) across the country, between Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Carlisle.

One of the best places to see it at its most intact is Corbridge, where you can explore the ruins of a Roman garrison.

• Get inspired by these popular tours of the UK
• Related: Top things to see and do in Northern England

18. Glenfinnan

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is among the most scenic railway bridges in the world. Crossing a valley between high hills and overlooking the jaw-dropping Loch Shiel, it’s an impressive feat of engineering.

You can choose how you see this special place. Take a train ride, watch from the valley floor or perch on the nearby hills for a view over the glen.

These days, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is famous for featuring in Harry Potter as the route taken by the Hogwarts Express. You’ll get a great photo as the train rounds the corner.

Near the base of the viaduct, on the shore of Loch Shiel, you’ll find the Glenfinnan Monument. It’s a poignant memorial to those who died fighting in the 1745 Jacobite rebellion. Climb to the top of the 18-metre (60-foot) tall tower for even more stunning views down the glen.

• Related: Harry Potter locations to visit in Scotland

19. Cornwall

In southwest England, you’ll find Cornwall, a striking peninsula. Because of its location, the region was isolated from much of the rest of England. And even now, you’ll find it has a distinct character. Some people here still speak Cornish , the region’s language.

When it comes to history and natural beauty, Cornwall has lots to offer. For example, there’s St Michael’s Mount, a tidal island topped with a castle and medieval church. Or Tintagel, a small village whose ruined castle has ties with King Arthur.

Southwest England, in general, is a great place to tour by car. While on the south coast, stop off at Durdle Door, Dorset. Located in a neighbouring county to Cornwall, this famous natural arch is one of the most photogenic coastal spots in the UK.

20. Belfast

Finally, don’t overlook Belfast , the Northern Irish capital. Set on the deep Belfast Lough – an inlet of the Irish Sea – Northern Ireland’s capital has been an important port for centuries. These days, you’ll find it’s a diverse, modern and exciting place.

Check out the newly developed Titanic Quarter , in what was once the largest shipyard in the world. It was here that the famous Titanic ship was built before it set sail for America in 1912. There’s also a visitor centre sharing the history of the tragedy when the ship sank on its first voyage after hitting an iceberg.

Stroll through the city and visit the City Hall , Botanic Gardens , and the Belfast Peace Walls . The murals on the Peace Walls illustrate the city's complex and often painful history.

During the 20th century, the Troubles meant that Belfast was separated into two sides. Protestants lived on one side, and Catholic communities on the other. Citizens would paint the walls to demonstrate their religious and political beliefs.

Today, you’ll see different depictions across the walls and get a feel for the city’s past.

• Explore beyond the cities and beyond on an Ireland self-drive tour
• Related: Best Ireland road trips – A local expert's view

See the iconic sights of the UK with Nordic Visitor

Visit the UK to explore enchanting cities, delve into the idyllic countryside, and discover intriguing histories spread across 4 nations.

Book your UK getaway with Nordic Visitor, and you’ll see the best of England, Scotland and Wales. Our Edinburgh-based experts will arrange everything for you, including your accommodation, local transport and any optional activities.

If you want the freedom to travel at your own pace, choose a self-drive tour of the UK . Or, if you’d like to learn from a local guide along the way, go for a UK small group tour .

However you decide to travel, we’ll make sure it’s the journey of a lifetime. Contact us to start planning your trip to the UK.

Hailing from Scotland, Emma has always pursued her love of adventure. With her trusty self-converted van, she roams Europe taking the roads less travelled to experience the natural beauty of each destination. When she’s not abroad, she fills her weekends going bouldering, cycling and hiking.

Find Emma on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

30 Best & Prettiest Places to Visit in The UK

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

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

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

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

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

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

30- Trossachs National Park, Scotland

Overview: top places to visit in the uk.

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

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

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

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

Cool places to visit in the UK – Map

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

30 must-visit places in the UK

1- the lake district, england.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do & see in the Lake District

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

Unforgettable experiences & tours

2- scottish highlands, scotland.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do & see in the Scottish Highlands

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

3- York, England

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

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

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

Things to do & see in York

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

4- The Cotswolds, England

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

Love the outdoors? Check out this article: 10 Best Campsites in The Cotswolds, England .

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

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

5- Jurassic Coast, England

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

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

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

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

Things to do & see on the Jurassic Coast

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

6- Snowdonia, Wales

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

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

READ MORE: 10 Best Easy Walks & Hikes in Snowdonia

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

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

READ MORE: 10 Best Campsites in Snowdonia National Park

Things to do & see in Snowdonia

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

7- Stonehenge, England

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

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

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

8- Cambridge, England

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Cambridge

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

9- Peak District, England

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

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

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

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

Things to do & see in the Peak District

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

10- Cornwall, England

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Cornwall

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

11- Edinburgh, Scotland

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: 3 Magical Days in Edinburgh: City Itinerary

Things to do & see in Edinburgh

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

12- South Downs, England

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

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

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

Things to do & see in the South Downs

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

13- Bath, England

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Bath

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

14- Yorkshire Dales, England

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Yorkshire Dales

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

15- Oxford, England

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

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Oxford

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

16- Giant’s Causeway, Ireland 

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

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

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

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

17- London, England

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: 3 Perfect Days in London: Complete Itinerary

Things to do & see in London

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

18- Liverpool, England

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Liverpool

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

19- Glasgow, Scotland

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Glasgow

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

20- Windsor Castle, England

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

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

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

Things to do & see at Windsor Castle

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

Top tips for visiting Windsor Castle

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

21- Manchester, England

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

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Manchester

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

22- Brighton, England

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Brighton

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

23- Isle of Wight, England

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

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

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

Things to do & see on the Isle of Wight

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

24- Cheddar Gorge, England

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

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

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

25- Bristol, England

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Bristol

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

26- Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Pembrokeshire

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

27- Belfast, Ireland

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Belfast

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

28- St Michael’s Mount, England

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

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

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

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

Things to do & see on St Michael’s Mount 

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

29- Chester, England

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

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

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

Things to do & see in Chester

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: The 15 UK National Parks: Complete Guide

Things to do & see in Trossachs National Park

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

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Create & plan your perfect vacation in the UK.

Sustainable travel in the UK

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

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

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

WANT MORE INSPIRATION?

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

UK travel planning guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

With love ♡ Lucie

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in England

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Feb 21, 2023

A former resident of the UK and now a frequent visitor, Author Bryan Dearsley spent eight weeks touring England in the summer of 2022 while on assignment for Planetware .

One of the most popular travel destinations in the world , England offers almost endless possibilities for vacationers seeking things to do and top attractions to visit.

Part of the beautiful British Isles, this small but influential country bursts with fascinating history, exciting cities, and rich cultural traditions. Historic sites are at every turn, from prehistoric megaliths and ancient Roman sites to centuries-old castles and town centers dating back to the Middle Ages .

England is also extremely easy to get around, with its most popular tourist destinations well connected by trains and buses. Alternatively, you can drive between points of interest on a well-planned system of motorways. Whether you choose to tour the country by car or public transport, you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

To help you get the most out of your travel itinerary, be sure to use our list of the best places to visit in England.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

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Stonehenge , 10 miles north of the historic city of Salisbury on Salisbury Plain, is Europe's best-known prehistoric monument. It's so popular that visitors need to purchase a timed ticket in advance to guarantee entry.

Exhibitions at the excellent Stonehenge Visitor Centre set the stage for a visit. Here, you'll find displays explaining through audio-visual experiences and more than 250 ancient objects how the megaliths were erected between 3000 and 1500 BCE. They also offer fascinating insights and information about life during this time.

After walking around the various viewing points adjacent to these enormous stones, visit the authentic replicas of Neolithic Houses to see the tools and implements of everyday Neolithic life. A highlight is watching staff, and volunteers provide demonstrations of traditional skills from 4,500 years ago.

Although you can no longer go inside the circle to wander among the stones during normal opening hours, you can reserve special early morning or late evening access into the circle through English Heritage, which manages the site.

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

Prison, palace, treasure vault, observatory, and menagerie: the Tower of London has done it all and it's one of the top attractions in London . Widely considered the most important building in England, there's enough to see and do at this World Heritage Site to keep visitors busy for hours.

The centerpiece of this Thames-side fortress is the White Tower . Built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, it's home to amazing exhibits, such as Line of Kings. The world's oldest visitor attraction , the collection was established in 1652 with a remarkable display of royal armor.

Other highlights include the impressive Crown Jewels exhibition, classic Yeoman Warder Tours, the Royal Mint, and exhibits and displays regarding prisoners and executions. All told, the Tower of London covers some 18 acres, so there's a great deal of exploring to do.

If you're traveling with children, be sure to check for special events for kids. These include a fun "Knights School" and other immersive programs that provide a fun insight into the castle's history.

• Read More: Visiting the Tower of London: Top Attractions, Tips & Tours

If you only have time to visit one of the nicest small cities in England , you couldn't do much better than Bath. This remarkably beautiful city in Somerset boasts more fantastic tourist attractions than you could hope to visit in a day.

While most famous for the magnificent 2,000-year-old Roman Baths built around the city's rejuvenating hot springs, it's equally well known for its honey-colored Georgian Townhouses , such as those located on Royal Crescent. One of them, #1 Royal Crescent, is open to the public and offers a fascinating look at life in Bath during the Georgian period. Some 500 of the city's buildings are considered of historical or architectural importance, a fact that has resulted in the entire city being granted World Heritage status.

Among the most interesting to visit today are the Holborne Museum with its large collections of artworks, silver, and period furniture; the famous Assembly Rooms, star of countless period dramas on TV and home to the interesting Fashion Museum ; and the Jane Austen Centre and its neighbor Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein, which tell the stories of two of Bath's most famous residents.

Bath also makes an ideal location from which to explore some of England's most stunning countryside, including the Avon Valley, the Mendip Hills, the Cotswolds, and countless other fantastic Somerset landmarks.

With collections of antiquities that are among the world's finest, a visit to the British Museum is undoubtedly one of the top free things to do in London . This superb museum holds more than 13 million artifacts from Assyria, Babylonia, Egypt, Greece, the Roman Empire, China, and Europe. The most famous ancient artifacts are the Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon in Athens, as well as the famous Rosetta Stone .

But there are many other outstanding pieces on show here that help make this one of the best places to visit in London. The Ancient Egyptian collection is the largest outside of Cairo, and the hoard of Roman silver dating from the fourth century known as the Mildenhall Treasure, unearthed in Suffolk in 1942, is nothing short of spectacular.

If you've got time, be sure to look into joining a guided tour or participate in a workshop or lecture. Fun private after-hour tours are also available. Dining and shopping opportunities are also located on-site.

Address: Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London, England

Official site: www.britishmuseum.org

Magnificent York Minster is second in importance in the Church of England only to the cathedral at Canterbury. It stands in the center of the historic city of York, surrounded by half-timbered homes and shops, medieval guildhalls, and churches.

In turn, York's romantic streets are surrounded by three miles of magnificent town walls that you can walk atop for spectacular views over the city and its surroundings. While here, visit the National Railway Museum , one of England's most visited tourist attractions.

York is also a good base from which to explore northeast England, in particular the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. Elsewhere in this corner of the country, you'll find some of England's most beautiful historic towns and cities, including Durham , famous for its castle and cathedral, and Beverley , which also boasts an attractive minster.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England

England is a country that's deeply rooted in tradition, history, pageantry, and pomp. Little surprise, then, that some of the biggest draws for tourists here revolve around the Royal Family, who have played an important role in shaping the country, along with many other parts of the world, for centuries.

If you've only got time to squeeze in one royal attraction, make it Windsor Castle. An easy 40-minute train ride from Central London, Windsor Castle is famous as one of the Royal Family's official residences, and throws its doors open to visitors regularly when the King is away.

And it's rich in history, able to trace its roots all the way back to the 11th century, when a triumphant William the Conqueror had a fortress erected on this very spot. Highlights of a visit to Windsor Castle include the castle's chapel, the State Apartments, as well as the magnificent Queen's Gallery.

And bring your walking shoes. The grounds are huge, stretching for some six miles around the castle and providing some of the best selfie opportunities anywhere with this historic building as a backdrop.

Address: Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire, England

Located in Upton in Cheshire, just over a mile north of Chester city center, Chester Zoo is England's most visited attraction outside of London and is one of the best places to visit in England for families.

The more than 11,000 animals living in this 125-acre site represent about 400 different species. But the zoo's appeal reaches beyond just animal lovers, with prizewinning landscaped gardens also available for visitors to enjoy.

You can tour these extensive grounds on the zoo's monorail system to reach highlights that include Chimpanzee Island, a penguin pool, and Europe's largest tropical house. There's plenty of other fun things to do at Chester Zoo, too, so expect to easily spend a day enjoying this top-rated tourist attraction.

While in Chester, take time to walk its old city walls , the best preserved of their kind in Britain. You should also spend time exploring Chester's other distinctive feature: its galleried walkways . Known as the "Chester' Rows," these impressive medieval architectural gems run the full length of stone and half-timbered buildings dating from the 14th century, and make for a unique and picturesque setting.

Chester Cathedral is also worth exploring if you can squeeze it into your travel itinerary. So, too, are Lower Bridge Street and Watergate Street, both of them home to numerous picturesque old buildings.

Address: Cedar House, Caughall Road, Chester, Cheshire, England

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chester

Covering some 900 square miles, Lake District National Park is a must-visit destination for travelers to England. With 12 of the country's largest lakes and more than 2,000 miles of rights of way waiting to be explored, there's little wonder the region continues to inspire, with its magnificent views and scenery straight out of a painting.

Other things to do include visiting the park's many fells, including Scafell Pike which at 3,210 feet is the highest mountain in England. Be sure to also spend time exploring some of the lovely little towns and villages dotted throughout the region, such as Grasmere.

Better still, hop aboard a tour boat excursion across Lake Windermere and Ullswater, and you'll be rewarded with some of the best scenery anywhere in the country.

Address: Murley Moss, Oxenholme Road, Kendal, Cumbria, England

Located in the heart of the historic city that bears its name, Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is home to the Archbishop of Canterbury and is the cradle of English Christianity.

It all started when St. Augustine converted the pagan Anglo Saxons here in 597 when he became the first bishop. Excellent guided tours of the cathedral are available, and for a truly memorable experience, consider booking an overnight stay in the grounds at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge .

But there's much more to this beautiful medieval city than just its cathedral. Canterbury is also a popular cultural and entertainment destination with great shopping, galleries, and cafés, as well as attractions such as those focused on Chaucer's medieval England and the city's Roman past.

Some of the other best places to visit in Canterbury include the Old City, the ruins of St. Augustine's Abbey, and medieval Beaney House.

Address: 11 The Precincts, Canterbury, Kent, England

• Read More: Murder & Majesty: Top Highlights of Canterbury Cathedral

As English as an afternoon tea, references to The Beatles are everywhere in Liverpool. Located in the northwest of the country, Liverpool is around three hours from London by rail and offers music fans plenty of opportunities to soak up some city sites , along with Fab-Four-related attractions.

Topping your list should be The Beatles Story. Located in the revitalized Albert Dock area of the city, this fun museum features enough facts and exhibits to keep the biggest fans busy for hours. Other related points of interest in Liverpool include visiting the famous Cavern Club, along with the real places about which they sang, including Strawberry Fields and Penny Lane.

Other must-dos include themed walks and guided tours, visiting the former homes of Paul McCartney and John Lennon, and getting in some souvenir shopping at The Beatles Shop, located just steps away from the Cavern Club.

The incredible Eden Project is a collection of unique artificial biomes containing an amazing collection of plants from around the world.

Located in a reclaimed quarry in Cornwall, this spectacular botanical gardens complex consists of huge domes that look rather like massive igloo-shaped greenhouses. Each of these impressive (and futuristic-looking) buildings houses thousands of different plant species in tropical and Mediterranean environments.

As well as these stunning displays of plant life, the Eden Project hosts numerous arts and music events year-round. If you're able to extend your visit, consider booking a stay at the on-site hostel, or enjoy a meal in one of its restaurants. Adventure activities such as ziplining and giant swings are also available.

Address: Bodelva, Par, Cornwall, England

The Cotswolds cover some 787 square miles and encompass parts of some of England's prettiest counties: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Somerset, Worcestershire, and Warwickshire. And all of it begs to be explored.

Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty due to its rare limestone grassland habitats and old-growth beech woodlands, the beauty of the Cotswolds has much to do with its quaint villages and towns , such as Castle Combe, Chipping Norton, and Tetbury.

Like so much of England, the Cotswolds is perfect to discover on foot. One of the best routes is along the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile footpath with spectacular views of the Severn Valley and the Vale of Evesham. This route runs the length of the Cotswolds, and can be picked up pretty much anywhere you visit.

Displaying one of the most comprehensive collections of paintings in the world, the National Gallery is London's second-most visited museum. The collections, which present an almost complete cross-section of European painting from 1260 until 1920 , are especially strong in the Dutch Masters and the Italian Schools of the 15th and 16th centuries.

In the Italian galleries, look for works by Fra Angelico, Giotto, Bellini, Botticelli, Correggio, Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese. It's also where you'll find Leonardo da Vinci's Madonna and Child with St. Anne and John the Baptist , Raphael's The Crucifixion , and The Entombment by Michelangelo.

In the German and Dutch galleries are works by Dürer, van Dyck, Frans Hals, Vermeer, and Rembrandt. Among artists from the 18th century through 1920, standout works are by Hogarth, Reynolds, Sargent, Gainsborough, Constable, and Turner. French works include those by Ingres, Delacroix, Daumier, Monet (including The Water-Lily Pond ), Manet, Degas, Renoir, and Cezanne.

With no-cost admission, a visit to the National Gallery is one of the top things to do in London for free. Guided tours and lunchtime lectures are also available for free and are highly recommended.

Address: Trafalgar Square, City of Westminster, London, England

If you're looking for a truly memorable English excursion for the whole family, and one that offers a fascinating insight into life in medieval times, you couldn't do much better than visit Warwick Castle.

Located in the beautiful city of Warwick on the River Avon, this impressive fortress has dominated the landscape and history of the region for more than 900 years. Today, it serves as a backdrop to medieval-themed events and reenactments, from jousting festivals to fairs and concerts.

Warwick is also great base from which to explore the Cotswolds, as well as nearby towns such as Stratford-upon-Avon , famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Bigger city destinations, including Liverpool , hometown of The Beatles, as well as Birmingham and Coventry , are an easy drive away.

Address: Stratford Road / West Street, Warwick, Warwickshire, England

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Warwick, England

When the Tate Modern opened its new 10-storey extension in June 2016, adding 60 percent more gallery space, visitor numbers jumped by almost one-fourth, making it one of England's most visited attractions.

Now regarded as among the world's best and certainly one of the largest, museums of modern and contemporary art, the Tate Modern shows a wide range of artistic expression, including paintings, works on paper, sculpture, films, performances, installations, and other forms of artistic expression.

Among the well-known artists represented here are Picasso, Rothko, Dali, Matisse, and Modigliani. Be sure to go to the viewing level for 360-degree views of the London skyline and the River Thames far below.

Other galleries under the Tate umbrella that you should consider visiting in England include Tate Britain (also in London), Tate Liverpool , and Tate St. Ives in Cornwall.

Address: Bankside, Southwark, London

Official site: www.tate.org.uk

Downstream from Tower Bridge, Greenwich is the London base of the Royal Navy and holds England's largest expanses of preserved historic architecture and parks. And although lovers of things maritime will certainly gravitate to Greenwich, there's a lot more there than just ships and boats here.

The highlight for most visitors is the Cutty Sark , the last surviving of the 19th-century clippers from the lucrative tea trade between Britain and China. Built in 1869, the Cutty Sark was one of the finest and fastest ships of its day, and you can board it to explore the clipper, from its figure head to the sailors' quarters below decks. For a special treat, book an afternoon tea overlooking the ship.

At the Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre , exhibits showcase more than 500 years of maritime history. In Queen's House , the National Maritime Museum is the largest of its kind in the world, featuring the Royal Navy from Tudor times to the Napoleonic Wars.

Greenwich Park , dating from the 15th century and the oldest of London's eight Royal Parks, is filled with beautiful gardens and walking paths, and here you'll find the Old Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian Line , marked by a steel rod in the floor of the Meridian Building. This is the zero meridian of longitude, dividing the world into eastern and western halves; you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere.

If you're hungry, add a great English breakfast from Heap's Sausage Cafe to your list of things to do in Greenwich.

Address: King William Walk, Greenwich, London, England

Official site: www.rmg.co.uk

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in London's Greenwich & Docklands Districts

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Plan a City Fix: After touring the best places to visit in London, you may want to see more of England's great cities. The largest of these, including Manchester , Liverpool , Birmingham , and Bristol , are all easy to reach by train. From the latter, you can easily nip over into wonderful Wales to visit its lively capital of Cardiff .

Beyond Borders: If you're visiting the popular attractions in Chester , cross into North Wales and perhaps on to Snowdonia National Park . North of England is Bonnie Scotland, with its glorious highlands and art-rich cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh . With the "Chunnel" speeding up crossing the English Channel by the EuroStar, you can be in the French capital of Paris in only 2.5 hours.

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The Top 20 Things to Do in England

 Noam Galai/GC Images

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

Take a Walking Tour of London

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

Visit Stonehenge

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

See a Play in Stratford-upon-Avon

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

Stroll the Jurassic Coast

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

Dance at Glastonbury

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

Eat Seafood in Whitstable

Courtesy of Whitstable Oyster Co

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

Watch Football in Manchester

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

Bathe in Thermal Waters in Bath

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

Punt in Cambridge

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

Explore History in York

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

Tour Windsor Castle

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

Drive Through the Cotswolds

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

Surf in Cornwall

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

Hike the Lake District

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

Trail the Beatles in Liverpool

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

Dine in Bray

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

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Cliveden House

Cliveden House

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

Visit the Real Downtown Abbey

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

Tour Canterbury Cathedral

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

Take a Ride on Brighton Pier

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

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20 Amazing Places to Visit in the UK

Written By: The Planet D

United Kingdom

Updated On: February 8, 2024

From the sea cliffs of Northern Ireland to the adventure playground of Wales, it’s difficult deciding where to go first. Travelers in the UK are spoiled for choice with attractions within the buzzing urban streets of London England to the isolated coast of the North Coast 500’s Scottish Highlands . To help you plan your travels, we thought we’d highlight some of the best places to visit in the UK to help you decide where to start.

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in the UK

Since the UK is made up of Scotland, Northern Ireland, England, and Wales, we are going to break up the best places to visit in the UK by nation. So, are you ready to explore the United Kingdom with us? Let’s go.

Places to Visit in England

It’s impossible to mention the best places to visit in the UK without including London, England. It’s truly one of the best cities on earth with unbeatable history, fantastic nightlife and historic sites lining the River Thames. See our full guide to the capital city of 22 of the Top Things to do in London, England

To take in the sights of London from above, book a ride up to the top of the World’s Tallest Observation Deck. This fast track ticket up the The London Eye offers fantastic views of the London Skyline. If you want to combine that with a cruise along the River Thames, check out this London Eye River Cruise to see the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben ( Palace of Westminster ), Tower of London Tower Bridge and more.

2. Greenwich Meridian Line

We have an entire article dedicated to all the amazing things to do in London, but one of the coolest places to visit in the UK is definitely the Greenwich Meridian Line. The Royal Observatory is home to the Prime Meridian of the world where the Eastern and Western hemispheres meet.

Book your advance entrance ticket that gives access to the home of British astronomy at the Royal Observatory, and Greenwich where you’ll be able to straddle the world-famous Meridian Line. It is also home to one of the best view of the city.

Another place that you must visit in the United Kingdom is Windsor Castle. Read all about it here How to Visit Windsor Castle

3. Cambridge

The legendary university town of Cambridge is one of the most popular places to visit in the UK. The architecture alone is worth visiting as it spans centuries with Kings College Chapel dating back to 1446. The university itself was founded in 1209 and has seen its share of historic figures walk its halls from Charles Darwin, Sir Isaac Newton and Stephen Hawking.

A great way to explore Cambridge University is to book a Guided Walking Tour with a Graduate . Enjoy 1.5 hours strolling the campus from King’s College to Trinity Hall College, Trinity College and Corpus Christi College. Let a Cambridge graduate share insider stories at you witness where DNA was discovered at the 17th-century The Eagle pub.

Punting is the quintessential Cambridge activity and this punting tour takes you along the entire length of the River Cam. Punting is similar to the gondola rides of Venice where you sit in comfort as your guide pushes the boat along the river with a long pole.

While we are exploring legendary universities, you must make your way to Oxford. The rivalry between Oxford and Cambridge dates back centuries and a that rivalry is celebrated annually during “The Boat Race” a rowing event that takes place each Spring on the River Thames.

Like Cambridge University, the best way to explore the grounds is to take a Walking Tour with an Oxford Alumni Guide . Harry Potter fans will love exploring filming locations of the Goblet of Fire.

5. Medieval York

One of the UKs most popular destinations is the medieval city of York. Located two hours north of London, this historic city boasts 2000 years of history. Take a walking tour through York to explore the top attractions of the walled city including the largest Gothic Cathedral in the United Kingdom. Get lost in the maze of passages known as ‘Snickelways’ that leads to the cobblestone street known as the shambles that was the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.

Nothing beats a river cruise in the UK and York is no exception. Book this River Ouse River Cruise where you’ll depart from King’s Staith landing and takes you to Clifton Ridge and the Millenial Bridge.

If you are looking for one of the prettiest places to visit in the UK, Bath is a great choice. Known for its thermal baths dating back to Roman times, it has been luring visitors to its healing waters for 2000 years. The city of Bath is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best way to explore Bath is on a City Boat Trip to the Pulteney Bridge . Hop aboard a 1960s cruiser to see the top attractions in Bath from the water or enjoy a Walking Tour of Bath Bath Abbey, Royal Crescent, The Circus, and Pulteney Bridge. Don’t miss visiting the Jane Austin Centre who resided in Bath and marvel at the architecture spanning the centuries.

One of the most famous attractions in the UK is Stonehenge. These famous standing stone pillars date back to the Neolithic and Bronze Age are definitely one of the best places to visit in England for history lovers. The Stonehenge Admission Ticket gives you access to one of the most the prehistoric monuments in the world. Make sure to download the audio app to your smartphone to help you wander this mysterious circle of stones. Hot tip, make sure to visit early in the morning or very late in the afternoon to avoid the tour bus crowds.

7. Brighton

Brighton is one of the best places to visit in the UK for beaches and fun in the sun. Located just an hour train ride from the capital, Brighton is one of England’s most popular resort towns. There are plenty of watersports along the beach with the most recognizable landmark being the Palace Pier which has survived for more than a century.

For the best views of the South Coast of Britian, Go up the British Airways i360 standing tall above the city. A modern glass pod takes you up 138 meters for views of the Sussex Coast, the city of Brighton and the beaches. For a splurge, enjoy a glass of sparkling wine at the Nyetimber Sky Bar.

8. Liverpool

Ever since watching Carpool Karaoke with Paul McCartney, Liverpool moved to the top of our must visit places in the UK. Naturally, people are drawn to Liverpool to explore the history of the Beatles. The award-winning attraction, the Beatles Story located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Albert Docks area should not be missed.

Get your tickets to the Beatles Story to trace the history of the Fab Four as you journey through replicas of historic Beatles milestones including The Casbah, Mathew Street and The Cavern.

But Liverpool isn’t just about the Beatles, it’s ranked as the fifth most visited place in the UK for a good reason. There are galleries and museums, the historic waterfront the actual Cavern Club where the Beatles debut in 1961 and the historic docks.

Book a River Cruise down the Mersey River. This 50 minute tour takes you along the famous sites of the Mersey River including St. Albert’s Dock and the historic buildings lining the Liverpool Waterfront known as the Three Graces.

9. Lake District

The Lake District is known for its wild craggy fells, and connections to Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter and is definitely one of the not to miss places in the UK for the quintessential England. Located in northwest England The Lake District is a National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It lives up to its name housing 12 of the largest lakes in England. It is a hikers paradise with 3,218 kilometers of trails including the 16-kilometer-long Cotswold Way and Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England.

Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

10. giant’s causeway.

Northern Ireland is one of our favourite places in Europe let alone favourite places to visit in the UK. We have to start with The Giant’s Causeway, an incredible beach of 40 thousand basalt columns creating a natural staircase leading down to the sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is Ireland’s Top Attraction. Visit it first thing in the morning to take in its natural beauty free of crowds.

11. Causeway Coast

Taking a drive along the Causeway Coast is a world class coastal driving route that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Its stunning landscape takes you through sea cliffs and beaches, coastal villages and medieval wonders. It is filled with dazzling attractions including picturesque Dark Hedges, the Carrick a Rede Bridge, Mussenden Temple, Dunluce Castle and the rolling Green Hills of the Glens of Antrim.

12. Belfast

When visiting Northern Ireland, the city of Belfast is not to be missed. The star attraction is the Titanic Museum. Book your tickets to the Belfast Titanic Experience where you’ll walk through an interactive display of the world’s largest exhibit dedicated to the Titanic. The virtual reality room is not to be missed and the multimedia displays of the underwater salvaging of the ship and the on going research is fascinating.

Make sure to head outside to see where the Titanic was built and explore the life size outline of the Titanic herself before going inside the SS Nomadic – the last remaining White Star Line ship in the world

13. Walls of London Derry

The city of London Derry is an often overlooked destination in the UK, but this should definitely be added to your list of places to visit. The Walls of London Derry date back to the 17th century and is one of the best preserved walled cities in Europe. Take a walking tour along walls to learn about the sieges and conflicts that the city of Derry has endured over the centuries including the 1689 siege that lasted for 105 days.

Places to Visit in Scotland

14. edinburgh.

Scotland is one of our favourite places to visit in the UK and Edinburgh is a city we could return to again and again. It’s a city filled with history, beauty, hauntings and magic. There are so many things to do in Edinburgh we have an entire itinerary to help you plan three days in Edinburgh. From exploring the historic Edinburgh Castle to shopping on the Royal Mile, there is something for everyone. From the Chocolatarium Tour, Tasting & Chocolate Making in Edinburgh to touring the Royal ‘Yacht Britannia.

Harry Potter fans will get a kick out of this Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour where you’ll see the sights that inspired J.K. Rowling including the actual tombstone that inspired Grave of Tom Riddle in Greyfriars Kirkyard. For more spooky fun, take an Underground Vaults tour beneath the streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The costumed guide sets the tone as you navigate the underground passage lit by candlelight.

• Things to do in Edinburgh
• 3 Days in Edinburgh – The Complete Edinburgh Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Edinburgh – A Guide To The Best Places and Neighborhoods

15. Loch Lomond

Located an hour and 40 minutes from Edinburgh, Loch Lomond is something to add to your itinerary when traveling around the United Kingdom. Known as the Queen of Scottish Lochs, it offers beautiful views of the boundary where the Scottish highlands meet the lowlands. This Loch Lomond: 1-Hour Cruise takes you on a scenic journey from Balloch village to where you’ll see Ben Mountain and Inchmurrin Island which is home to the ruins of the 12th century Lennox Castle.

16. Scottish Highlands

A trip to Scotland wouldn’t be complete without explore the Scottish Highlands. We took a drive along the northernmost portion of Scotland on the North Coast 500. From Inverness to the Isle of Skye, the northern portion of the country has some of the best scenery in Scotland.

Drive through the Scottish Highlands in search of castles and cairns twisting and turning among some fo the most rugged coastline in the world. Scotland also houses the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis. Sample Scottish Whisky in Dornoch, Admire the Sea Stacks of John O’Groats and explore the sea caves of Ullapool. North Coast 500 – The Ultimate Trip Guide to Scotland’s Epic Drive

17. Inverness

Inverness is the capital of the Scottish Highlands and is our favourite city in Scotland.

While Loch Ness may be what first attracted visitors to Inverness, there are so many things to see in Inverness. In town check out the 19th century St. Andrew’s Cathedral and stroll the Ness Islands. Don’t miss visiting the historic Culloden Battlefield, and walk through thousand year old cairns. Explore more at our 8 Things to do in Inverness – The Capital of the Scottish Highlands

It is from Inverness that you can make your way to Loch Ness in search of the Loch Ness Monster. Make sure to visit Urquhart Castle which has been the centre of many a battle for 1000 years as it changed hands between Scotland and Britain.

Places to Visit in Wales

Definitely one of our favourite places to visit in the UK is Wales . Dave and I like to call it The Adventure Capital of Europe with extreme sports, coastal hikes and underground caverns waiting to be explored. Wales is the land of castles, with more castles per square mile within its borders than anywhere else in the world. It is the perfect place to go castle hopping.

18. Snowdonia

If you are a nature lover Snowdonia National Park should be at the top of your list . The Snowdon Mountains are one of the most beautiful places in the United Kingdom extraordinary views over rolling mountains from Snowdon Mountain, the highest mountain in Wales. Take the steam train ride up to the summit to enjoy some hiking.

19. Portmeirion

Portmeirion is a fairytale-like tourist village in Gwynedd, Wales. Nobody lives in this town, but it’s a wonderful stop on your visit to Wales that gives a quiet retreat in a very different destination. Modeled after the village of Portofino on the Italian Riviera, Portmeiron is a quirky destination that is not to be missed.

20. Pembrokeshire

If you want to add the adventure of a lifetime to your bucket list, try your hand at Coasteering in Pembrokeshire. You will not only marvel at the stunning coastal sea cliffs, you will jump from them into rolling and tumbling waters. What to Expect when Coasteering in Wales

And there you have some of the best places to visit in the UK. There really are so many other places to visit, we barely scratched the surface but this should help you get started. So where are you going next?

Read more about London

• Where To Stay In London – Guide to The Best Neighborhoods
• 3 Days in London – The Ultimate London Itinerary
• How to Get from London Airport to City Centre
• London Landmarks – 18 Famous Places in Photos

Travel Planning Resources

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

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

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

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

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20 Prettiest And Best Places To Visit In England

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

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

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

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

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

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

1.) Lake District

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District

2.) Corfe Castle

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

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

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

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

Read more: Our visit to Corfe Castle

3.) The Cotswolds

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

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

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

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

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

Read more: Best things to do in the Cotswolds

4.) Cambridge

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

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

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

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

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

Read more: Best things to do in Cambridge

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

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

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

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

Read more: Best things to do in Bath

6.) Bristol

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more: Best things to do in Bristol

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

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

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

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

Read more: Best things to do in Oxford

8.) Norwich

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

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

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

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

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

Read more: Best things to do in Norwich

9.) Stonehenge

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more: Our visit to Stonehenge

10.) Jurassic Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more: How to go fossil hunting in England

11.) Watergate Bay

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

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

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

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

Read more: Visiting the Watergate Bay

12.) St Michael’s Mount

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

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

Read more: Top spots to visit in Cornwall

13.) Robin Hood’s Bay

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

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

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

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

Read our full post on visiting Robin Hood’s Bay

14.) Castle Howard

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

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

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

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

Read more: Visiting Castle Howard

15.) London

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

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

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

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

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

Read more: Best things to do in London

16.) Holy Island

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

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

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

Read more: Best islands to explore in England

17.) Birmingham

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

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

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

Read more: Best things to do in Birmingham

18.) Cirencester

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

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

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

Read more: What to see in Cirencester

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

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

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

Read more: Best day trips from London

20.) Manchester

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

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

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

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

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The 15 best places to visit in the UK in 2024

From charming seaside spots to bustling cities, we’ve got all the staycation inspo you need right here

For all the bucket list places around the world, it can be easy to forget that we actually have some pretty amazing places to explore right here on our doorstep. Sure, the British weather can have a mind of its own and train travel can leave a lot to be desired, but if you’re willing to put up with all of that, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what there is to discover. 

From quaint coastal towns with trailblazing restaurants and bustling cities with an edge of their own, to gorgeous islands that feel nothing like the UK , these are the parts of the country that should hands-down be on your staycation wishlist for next year. These places have thriving food, drink and arts scenes, they’re home to exciting new openings and they have plenty of big events for you to scribble into your calendar, pronto. 

Thinking of planning a holiday a little closer to home next year? By sifting through all of the hottest launches for next year and using our expert knowledge of cultural scenes around the country,  Time Out’s UK team has curated the very best British destinations for you to plan a trip to in 2024. And the best part? Y ou can visit most of them easily, cheaply and without having to catch a flight. Time to get booking!

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best  things to do in the UK 🏖️ The best  seaside towns in the UK 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs in the UK

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

Where to visit in the UK in 2024

1.  bristol.

Should we really be surprised that (apparently) everyone is moving to Bristol ? Its 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. A musical adaptation of the 2006 film ‘ Starter for Ten ’ is coming to the renowned Old Vic theatre from February 29 to March 30, while   DIASPORA! , a brand new festival showcasing BIPOC global ethnic majority artists – across theatre, dance, music, visual and digital arts, as well as poetry and spoken word – is launching in May.   Undershed , a new immersive gallery, is on track to launch in Spring, and   Boxhall   – a street food, beer and events space by the same people who behind London’s   Boxpark   – will also open its doors.   

The perfect day Start with grabbing a coffee from Clifton Coffee Roasters  before pottering around Gloucester Road and perusing the many shops (it’s the largest strip of independent retailers in Europe). Then, hop on a Bristol Ferry water bus tour  to see the city from the water . Finally, feast on a dinner of Spanish small plates at Bravas (or check out one of the city’s other excellent restaurants ), before heading out to rave the night away at one of the many DIY-style clubs . 

Plan your trip The 2024 edition of Bristol’s newest music festival, Forwards , takes place on August 31 and September 1. 2023 headliners included Aphex Twin, Erykah Badu and Raye .

📍 The best things to do in Bristol 🍴 The   best  restaurants in Bristol

2.  Hull

Hull became a surprising capital for the UK’s LGBTQ+ community in 2023. From  Monroe’s   to Unit 49 and Cherry’s – named after the late ‘Ru Paul’s Drag Race’ star Cherry Valentine – an influx of new gay bars and clubs means Hull’s new Freedom Quarter is slowly growing its ecosystem of queer-friendly spaces. As well as its thriving LGBTQ+ scene, in 2017 the East Yorkshire city was also named the city of culture. It’s got The Deep , an enormous aquarium with 3000 species, a picturesque old town which survived the city’s relentless WWII bombings, and lots of up and coming indie art galleries like Ground and Artlink . Don’t sleep on Hull.

The perfect day  Get your caffeine fix at Still. by Two Gingers Coffee before having a wonder around Hull’s charming old town or pottering in the shops at Hepworth’s Arcade . After that, head to indie events space Ground to check out whatever arty happenings they have on. Finally, stop for a pint at Ye Olde White Hart before heading to one of the infamous 13-hour parties (yes, really) at Gate No. 5 .

Plan your visit Pride in Hull will take place on July 29, 2024. 

📍 The best things to do in Hull

3.  Isles of Scilly

A lot of people say that the Isles of Scilly are the British version of the Caribbean – and you know what? We’d totally agree. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Cornwall is largely unspoilt, with white stretches of sandy beaches, turquoise waters and plenty of opportunities to go island hopping and dolphin spotting. But there’s more, too: head to the local museum to immerse yourself in the islanders’ deep sense of culture and tradition, sink yourself silly on local ales at seaside pubs or indulge your sense of adventure by snorkelling over the many under-the-sea shipwrecks. Bliss. 

The perfect day Travel to the islands by Skybus from Land’s End – it only takes 20 minutes, and there’s a gorgeous view. Once you arrive, make your way over to St Mary’s Riding Centre to take in the stunning scenery on horse-back. If that’s not your thing, hire bikes and explore the coastal trails of St. Mary’s islands before taking a transfer boat to St. Agnes to visit the Turks Head for a hearty pub lunch made using local ingredients. Once your food goes down? It has to be time for a swim.

Plan your trip The Isle of Scilly food festival is a ten-day celebration of local provenance taking place in September, with mouth-watering events like beach BBQs and vineyard tours.

📍 The best places to visit in Cornwall

4.  London

Ah, good old London . No matter how many times you’ve visited or how long you’ve lived there, you’ll always find new things to discover in the capital. There are a tonne of new restaurants to feast at, all sorts of gorgeous hotel openings and plenty of fresh cultural things to do. Most notably, in 2024, you can dance at Drumsheds , the mammoth warehouse club housed in a former IKEA, catch a blockbuster exhibition – like Yoko Ono at the Tate Modern or The World of Tim Burton at the Design Museum – and see epic new West End performances ( Mean Girls , anyone?).

The perfect day  For lunch, grab a delicious loaded sandwich at Dom’s Subs on Hackney Road for (or treat yourself to a boujee meal out at Morito ), before perusing the cute independent shops on Columbia Road and gawking over the even cuter animals at Hackney City Farm . Head over to Soho for a late-afternoon pint at the iconic French House , then round off your day with a delicious pre-theatre dinner at the newly opened Forza Wine at the National Theatre , before catching a play. 

Plan your trip Book tickets to see the stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s ‘ Spirited Away ’, taking place at the London Coliseum from April 30 until August 24.

📍 The best things to do in London 🍴 The best restaurants in London

5.  Belfast

The Norn Iron capital is criminally underrated. If you’re yet to discover its welcoming warmth and cultural vibrance, 2024 is the year to change that. Over the next twelve months Belfast has mega ambitions to deliver its biggest ever cultural celebration via a project dubbed ‘ Belfast 2024 ’. Set around the theme of ‘People, Place and Planet’, the whopping programme of 24 large-scale commissions and over 200 events, workshops and activities includes a collaboration with the Eden Project, a guerilla gardening scheme aimed at rewilding the peace walls in the west of the city and an immersive music showcase celebrating Belfast’s contemporary Black culture.

The perfect day Begin with a wholesome morning stroll through the Botanic Gardens , followed by a hefty brunch at Output . Then wander through the parliament buildings at Stormont and the monumental Titanic Belfast museum. In the evening, find your way to The Muddlers Club hidden within the historic back streets of the Cathedral Quarter, or if you’d rather eat in, order from cult favourite Mexican place Boojums . Round off the evening by grabbing a pint accompanied by some banging live music at the Dirty Onion .

Plan your trip  The cultural celebrations kick off from March and will run through to November. Make sure to be in the city on March 17 for an ‘enhanced’ edition of St Patrick’s Day shindigs.

📍 The best things to do in Belfast

6.  St Andrews

Forgive us for including two Scottish seaside towns in this list (see: number 14), but it’s a good excuse to plan a road trip, right? A coastal gem in the Kingdom of Fife, St Andrews is home to an ancient university, three stunning beaches, botanic gardens, multiple pubs, a famous golf course and not much else. But it’s also beautiful, extremely walkable and very peaceful, and if you’re after a bit more action, it’s also close enough to Dundee to plan a day trip to the renowned V&A museum . St Andrews has also been tipped to be a hit set-jetting destination for 2024 with the town featuring heavily in the final season of ‘ The Crown ’, thanks to it to being where Prince William met Kate Middleton while at university. Fans, come this way.

The perfect day Line your stomach with a delicious fry up from Northpoint (which claims, like many places in town, to be where ‘Will met Kate’). Then, you’ll probably want to go for a lofty beach walk on West Sands, where ‘Chariots of Fire’ was filmed, before returning to town for some fresh fish and chips from Cromar’s (if the weather allows, eat them on another nearby beach: Castle Sands). In the evening, catch a local show at The Byre Theatre  or sink some pints at one of the town’s many pubs: Aikman’s and Brew Co. are very good choices.

Plan your trip  V isit in July: most of the students will have left for the summer and you might actually get to enjoy the beach with some sun.

📍 The essential guide to Scotland

7.  Lewes

‘Like a box of toys under a great amphitheatre of chalk hills... on the whole it is set down better than any town I have seen in England’: so said William Morris about Lewes in the 1800s. The sloping Sussex town has been a favoured haunt of artsy progressives, not least Virginia Woolf, Vanessa Bell and the rest of the bohemian Bloomsbury set. In 2023, it gained a brand new cultural space in the form of Charleston in Lewes (head here in the new year to catch the ‘Bring No Clothes: Bloomsbury and Fashion’ exhibition, closing March 3). There’s more, too: as you wonder Lewes’ charming wonky streets you’ll stumble past the former home of Anne of Cleves, Lewes Castle , a hodgepodge of artisan stores and delicious foodie spots – as well as the most bonkers pub in the UK, the Lewes Arms.

The perfect day  Take the brand new Sussex Art Shuttle and travel a short distance outside of town to see Charleston Farmhouse , before heading back for a veggie burger at Bun and Bean and a pastry dessert from Flint Owl Bakery . Spend the afternoon learning about the history of the castle and Lewes Priory , then browse the independent shops in The Needlemakers . Finish with a meal and a movie at Depot .

Plan your trip  The stunning Glyndebourne Opera House is hosting a festival of world class opera from May 16 to August 25, while the incredible extravaganza that is Lewes Bonfire Night is taking place around November 5.

📍 The best things to do in Lewes

8.  Newcastle

There’s plenty to shout about in Newcastle (and not just the nightlife, though we love that too). The city’s food scene already had a pretty good reputation, but new openings in 2023 have really seen it thrive, like natural wine and pizza spot Bawn  and new brunch spot Cafeteria :  a sort of posh style greasy spoon, which seem to be all the range now. Pair this with a load of great galleries and pubs, the legendary Wylam Brewery and Tyneside Cinema and seriously reasonable prices and you’ve got a cracking weekend away. Or you might just want to pack up and move there. It happens. 

The perfect day  Grab a coffee (with a view) at La Verne Vintage , before walking waterside and over the Quayside bridge. Head to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art and wander through whatever exhibition is on, before heading to the very top floor for fantastic views over the city. Then head to Ouseburn, Newcastle’s coolest neighbourhood, and grab a pint and a banging vegan lunch at The Ship Inn . If you’ve got an itching for more art, check out the Biscuit Factory next door. After a few more pints, hit up World Headquarters for a night on the Toon. 

Plan your trip  The Newcastle Fringe 2024 will run from July 18 to  29. Catch shows at the very cool Northern Stage as well as a number of pubs. 

📍 The best things to do in Newcastle

9.  Falmouth

Falmouth has always been Cornwall’s cooler town. Home to Exeter and Falmouth university campuses, student life here has brought a bit of vibrancy and edge to the quiet cobbled streets – but there’s always been a glaring gap when it came to the question of nightlife. Recently, though – thanks to new music venue  The Cornish Bank  –  its late night credentials have shot up. From Klub Nos Lowen, a cult folk music night, to up and coming indie bands, this spot is the ideal place to absorb some of the county’s best culture.

The perfect day  Start with a paddle at Gyllyngvase Beach, then warm yourself up with a coffee at Gylly beach cafe . Then check out the independent boutiques and galleries on the high street. (Shout out to Mirri Damer jewellery and Wild Pony vintage.) After grabbing some grub from Harbour Lights fish and chips, head to Chain Locker for a harbourside pint before moseying on to a gig at The Cornish Bank. If you have time, pop in to Beerwolf too, a charming pub/bookshop.

Plan your visit  T he annual worm charming championship  (you read that right)  takes place in late May every year. The Sea Shanty Festival  takes place on June  14 to 16  2024, and Falmouth Week , an extravaganza of music, sailing and local culture, takes place on August  9 to 18 .

📍 The best things to do in Falmouth

10.  Manchester

Manchester never fails to serve up a cultural banquet. After a huge year that saw the launch of Factory International at Aviva Studios, the rescue of grassroots gig venue, The Snug , and the long-awaited reopening of Manchester Museum , 2024 is set to be another big one. The star of the show will be the huge, innovative Co-op Live  which is opening in April, backed by Bruce Springsteen and Harry Styles and already has the likes of Liam Gallagher and Oilvia Rodrigo lined up to perform. And in much-anticipated news for its food scene, L’Enclume chef Tom Barnes is opening his first solo restaurant, Skof , in the Noma district in spring.

The perfect day  Swing by Idle Hands to fuel up on carbs and caffeine before perusing around the Northern Quarter’s indie shops (don’t miss Queer Lit or the Craft and Design Centre). Pick from a huge range of edible options at Mackie Mayor for lunch (or head to the Michelin-starred Where The Light Gets In , for something special) then use the new Visit Manchester Pass to check out the National Football Museum and take a craft beer tour of the city. End with a tipple and live music at YES .

Plan your trip  Head up some time between October 23 and 27 to catch the Worldwide Music Expo , which is set to attract over 2,600 big guns from the global music industry.

📍 The best things to do in Manchester 🍴 The best  restaurants in Manchester

11.  Ramsgate

Last year it was all about Margate , but now, another neighbour has joined Kent’s roster of cosy, culture-filled seaside towns that everyone’s getting obsessed with. Enter: Ramsgate , a walkable gem with a hell of a lot of character. Check out one of its locally-run galleries and studios (including Level 11 , specialising in dog pics), and don’t miss filling up at one of its new food offerings: this year, bar/restaurant Seabird  arrived on the scene , as well as new monthly pop-up Catch at the Camden Arms , serving up a delightful seafood set menu. Oh, and the world’s biggest Wetherspoons is here. You heard us. 

The perfect day  Pull up at Ramsgate Station and stroll towards the seafront, stopping at The Modern Boulangerie on Harbour Street for brunch and a ridiculously good cinnamon roll. Take a coffee to go and spend time checking out Ramsgate’s indie shops, from the records at Vinyl Head to the pottery, books and glass at Island Vintage . Head to the harbour and head out on a seal-spotting boat trip , before grabbing a sunset pint at the Royal Harbour Brasserie . Finally, warm up with pub grub at The Bedford Inn  (top tip: you can rent a room at their brand-new hotel too). 

Plan your trip  Go when it’s sunny and try to catch the town’s  International Film Festival in June or the Festival of Sound in August. 

📍 The best things to do in Ramsgate

12.  Norwich

Hugged by the marshes and woodlands of Broads National Park, Norwich brings the ancient to the contemporary — from its cobbled alleyways and two dazzling cathedrals to the modern exhibitions at the Sainsbury Centre and its Michelin-star prowess. In summer 2024,  Norwich Castle (which was apparently one of Europe’s most important mediaeval fortresses) is set to reveal the results of a mighty £15m revamp, due to include redecorated rooms and the restoration of its 12th century Norman keep. As the self-proclaimed ‘City of Stories’ and England’s first UNESCO City of LIterature, you’ll be enchanted by Norwich’s tale.

The perfect day  Order your morning drink of choice at Strangers Coffee then stop by the city’s 900-year old market on Gentleman’s Walk to check out the organic produce and food stalls. Save room for dessert so that you can enjoy elevenses at Figbar then take in the magnificent architecture of Norwich Cathedral and check out the curiosities hiding within the antique shops on Elm Hill. Round it all off with dinner from Grosvenor Fish Bar .

Plan your trip A c elebration of queer art and ideas, Queerfest Norwich is happening February 8 to 24.

📍 The best things to do in Norwich

13.  Alnmouth

For a tranquil seaside break in 2024, the tiny fishing village of Alnmouth on the border between Scotland and England is a solid bet. Think: wild, windswept walks, pastel-coloured fisherman’s cottages, freshly-caught fish and blissful peace and quiet. Three surrounding beaches make up part of Northumberland’s 40-mile long coastal path — which happens to be a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, recently renamed ‘National Landscapes’ – and as such, there’s a delightful cluster of wildlife to look out for, including adorable puffins and grey seals.

The perfect day Sit down for an A.M. coffee and fresh kippers on toast at Bistro23 before checking out Almouth’s cluster of independent stores like Scots of Alnmouth and Jane and Harry’s. Then stop by the Ferry Hut , a bitesize museum dedicated to the ferrymen of yesteryear. Spend the afternoon adventuring along the coastal path before indulging in a well-earned dinner at The Whittling House .

Plan your trip Alnmouth Arts Festival  is happening on June 15 and 16, with more than 50 designers and craftspeople exhibiting their work in venues throughout the village.

14.  Ullapool

A tiny village and port around 45 miles from Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, Ullapool is well situated for walkers and cyclists to get their dose of the great outdoors: explore the nearby Corrieshalloch Falls, scramble up Stac Pollaidh mountain or to hop on a ferry to the Outer Hebrides. But there’s more to this place than just hiking boots and anoraks. Ullapool also going under something of a cultural renaissance, with Scotland’s most remote club night bringing of-the-moment electronic DJs to the area and The Seafood Shack and new 3AA Rosette restaurant  The Dipping Lugger  attracting foodies from far and near. The town was recently chosen as one of Time Out’s most underrated travel destinations in Europe, so get down soon.

The perfect day Wrap up warm and drive over to the foot of Stac Pollaidh mountain, with its spectacular peak of Torridonian sandstone. Reward yourself with a packed lunch on the top after a two-hour climb, before heading home and warming up in The Ferry Boat Inn  where you can enjoy a slap-up dinner with some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat.

Plan your trip The next Baile/Baile club nights take place on February 3 and March 2, showcasing some of Scotland’s most exciting DJ talent.

15.  Wrexham

Who’d have thought a small Welsh city would have been taken over by Hollywood celebs and become the subject of an extremely popular Disney+ documentary? Wrexham, home to the formerly flailing football club Wrexham AFC, became one of the UK’s hottest tourist destinations after A-listers Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought the club in 2020. The city is also home to St Giles’s, one of the most stunning churches in Wales. Then there’s the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – a huge 18-arched stone and cast iron structure carrying the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee – and two National Trust properties, Erddig Parkland and Chirk Castle . In 2024, the national Football Museum for Wales is also expected to open, with exhibitions on Welsh language communities, fan culture and LGBTQ+ experiences.

The perfect day Start the day at Aussi brunch spot Lot 11 . After fueling yourself, you’re obviously going to want to check out The Racecourse, the stadium that’s home to Wrexham AFC. Then you’ll need to grab a pint at The Turf , the football team’s pub of choice. For the afternoon, hop in the car for a 20 minute drive to check out the gorgeous views from the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and surrounding World Heritage Site.

Plan your trip Wrexham Feast , an annual food and drink festival, takes place in late September.

📍 The best things to do in Wrexham

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London, England   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Doug Armand | Getty Images

34 Best Things to Do in London, England

Whether you're keen to brush up on your history knowledge at the Tower of London , tour the home of the monarchy at Buckingham Palace or check out one of the city's many art galleries, London isn't short on things to do. Thespians will

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
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Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, King Charles III's London home, is open for touring (except for the king's private quarters, of course) from July to October. On the tour, you'll have access to the 19 State Rooms where the king and members of the royal family host guests for state, ceremonial and official affairs. Opulently accented with chandeliers, candelabras, paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto, and exquisite English and French furniture, these rooms display some of the most magnificent pieces from the Royal Collection. Along with the grand interiors, the State Rooms, where kings and queens have entertained guests on both official and ceremonial occasions, are also a witness to history. Those who followed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton closely will recognize the Throne Room, which served as the backdrop for the pair's official wedding photographs.

For tours in the summer, recent travelers suggested taking advantage of the multimedia guide (included with admission and available in multiple languages), so that you hear a detailed history of each room at your own pace. The palace advises you set aside at least two hours to see the State Rooms (and that you wear comfortable shoes), while recent travelers advised that you use the facilities prior to the start of the tour; there are no public restrooms available until you reach the garden. Except in the Garden Café, no food or drinks (except bottled water) are permitted in the palace.

Tower of London Tower of London

Although its exterior might be grim and even unimpressive (especially when compared to stately  Buckingham Palace ), the Tower of London's interior is always bustling with activity. Despite its name, the large complex has a long history as a palace, a fortress and a prison. Each exhibition and activity here explores this history.

If you're enchanted with the monarchy, don't miss the famous crown jewels exhibition. Among the items you'll see is the Imperial State Crown – which is still worn by the queen for each State Opening of Parliament – and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. In 2020, Prince of Wales' Investiture Coronet joined the display in the Jewel House. For an oral history, take an entertaining tour led by the Yeoman Warders (tower guards). During the hourlong excursion (included in your admission ticket), the guards will regale you with tales of the tower's bloody past. The White Tower is one of the world's most famous castles and a recognizable London landmark. Inside, you'll find the 350-year-old exhibition, "Line of Kings," which includes suits of armor worn by Henry VIII, Charles I, and James II. Keep an eye out for the Tower's famous ravens, who are said to guard the structure.

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

Step through halls where history was made time and again by visiting the British Parliament. Guided and self-guided tours (which come highly recommended by recent travelers) take visitors through multiple areas of the building, including Westminster Hall (the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate, which is more than 900 years old), the House of Commons Chamber and the House of Lords. If you're not interested in perusing the corridors that make up the U.K.'s governing body, many travelers say that simply admiring the iconic structure's impressive exterior is enough, and an absolute must-do for anyone visiting London. 

If you're one of many looking to snap your own photo of one of the most photographed buildings in the world, the best vantage point is from Westminster Bridge. But if you want a truly smashing shot, head on over to Lambeth Bridge or the Golden Jubilee Bridges on the South Bank for a view of Parliament and the London Eye together. Keep in mind that Westminster Bridge connects two of the city's most popular attractions ( London Eye  and Parliament), and as a result is almost always very crowded.

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Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

This medieval church, graced by many royal weddings and coronations, offers a magnificent peek at London's far-reaching history. Westminster Abbey is generally busy – and the staff keeps you moving at a pretty swift pace – so do a little research ahead of time to avoid missing your personal must-sees. For instance, if you're a bibliophile, consider a visit to the Poets' Corner. This is the final resting place of famed authors Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens and Rudyard Kipling, among others. If you're fascinated by all the intrigue surrounding the British royalty, you might like to visit the shared tomb of enemies and half sisters Elizabeth I and Mary Tudor.

If you prefer to see the abbey at your own pace, but still want a little guidance on the history you're encountering, take advantage of the multimedia guides, which are included in the price of admission and available in 14 languages. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour (led by the abbey's vergers) and see special places inaccessible to the public, including the tomb containing Saint Edward the Confessor. If you decide to take this tour, you'll pay 10 pounds (around $14) on top of the general admission price.

British Museum British Museum free

The British Museum is both an architectural beauty and a trove of some of the world's most noted antiquities. In fact, many travelers say it's the best museum in all of London. What's more, it's free to visit. From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon Sculptures to Mesopotamian objects, the British Museum is a history buff's dream containing artifacts in the millions. The immense collection can make an initial museum visit seem overwhelming: Pick the exhibits that most interest you, and plan return trips if you feel so inclined.

If you want a little help navigating the museum's exhibits – the approximately 80,000 objects on display out of its collection totaling 8 million items – consider tagging along on a guided tour. Several, including the daily eye-opener tours and the LBGTQ-themed "Desire, Love, Identity" tour and Friday evening spotlight tours are free. You can also book an "Around the World in 60 Minutes" tour for 14 pounds (around $20). Audio guides, which cost 7 pounds (about $10), are also available to rent daily.

Covent Garden Covent Garden free

Though called a garden, Covent Garden isn't all about plants and flowers. Rather, it's a piazza and a collection of urban streets boasting numerous upscale stores as well as bars, restaurants, art installations and more. In other words, it's a bustling neighborhood within London's West End. Shops range from famous trademarks like Ralph Lauren and Mulberry to independent brands. In addition to conventional shops and boutiques, Covent Garden has a covered market area where vendors sell everything from antiques to crafts. Similarly, dining options range from foodie destinations like Sushi Samba and Balthazar to casual pubs. Given Covent Garden's open-air orientation, there are appropriately more than 1,000 seats for al fresco dining.

Covent Garden is also home to the Royal Opera House. Even if you're unable (or disinclined) to see an opera, you can tour the lavishly appointed Royal Opera House. Architecture-enthusiasts find the building, especially its glass atrium, stunning and the tours informative. General admission tickets are 19 pounds (about $24) for adults and 16.75 pounds (about $21) for anyone younger than 16. (Check the opera house’s website for dates and times.)

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Wander over to nearby Chinatown to sample its slew of Asian restaurants and bubble tea shops, and continue on into Soho for some of the city's best LGBT-friendly bars. – Laura French

Regularly compared to  New York 's  Times Square , Piccadilly Circus is the meeting place of five busy roads and is the center of London's hustle and bustle. Whether it's people on their way to work in the morning, shoppers en route to the chain store-lined Oxford Street (just a few blocks north) or lively club and bar hoppers passing through at night, Piccadilly is always thrumming with activity. 

West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a fun night out, buy tickets for a showing of Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap," which is the longest-running play in history. – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Catching a show in London's West End theater district is just as necessary as watching a play on  Broadway  during a trip to  New York City . The quality is some of the best in the U.K., and the constant mix of new and classic productions with local and world-renowned talent (think: Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Angela Lansbury, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Benedict Cumberbatch) excites both visitors and locals alike. Even if you don't consider yourself much of a theater devotee, recent travelers said the atmosphere, specifically near the lively Leicester Square, where many of the theaters are concentrated, is worth a late-night wander.

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Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A short stroll from Hyde Park Corner will take you to The Grenadier – a tiny pub hidden down a cobbled alley. It opened in 1818 as an officers' mess and now serves beers and classic pub fare in atmospheric, wood-strewn surroundings. – Laura French

Just north of the Royal Albert Hall and northwest of Buckingham Palace  sit Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens: a stretch of green bisected by West Carriage Drive. Hyde Park was once the recreational stomping grounds for King Henry VIII, but now this 350-acre swath of land is open to the public and a must-visit for travelers looking for a relaxing moment away from the city's hustle and bustle. Among Hyde Park's meandering foot and bike paths and flourishing flora and fauna, you'll find a few standout attractions that are worth exploring. Watch the swans and boats glide over the serene Serpentine Lake (or rent a vessel yourself), visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or stop by the Speakers' Corner, a site for public speeches and debates since the 19th century (previously used by George Orwell and Vladimir Lenin, among others). For the sporting set, Hyde Park has tennis courts, football pitches (remember: football means soccer here) and a horse-riding arena.  

The London Eye The London Eye

The London Eye (the giant Ferris wheel found in many London panoramas) is on the River Thames and meant to deliver great views – not a thrilling ride. It circles around slowly, offering an unbeatable bird's-eye perspective of London's South Bank. However, those with a fear of heights should beware: When you're more than 400 feet high, the 360-degree views can be a bit disconcerting.

While some travelers say the London Eye is an absolute must-do, others found the experience to be overrated. Some recent travelers said the lines were too long (upward of a couple hours) and the ticket prices too high. However, many others were amazed by the views, especially  Parliament  and  Buckingham Palace . Visitors were keen to note that this ride is not a fast one, with the average rotation of the wheel at least 30 minutes long. You can also combine a ride on the London Eye with a guided boat tour.

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

For nearly 200 years, Trafalgar square has been a London institution. Flanked by the National Gallery , the square features two fountains, several busts and bronze lions at the base of Nelson's Column. The column, which honors Admiral Horatio Nelson for his success at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, stands 16 feet tall. At its base, bronze panels detail some of Nelson's battles and the two lions are there to protect the monument.

Recent travelers appreciated this famous London locale, noting that it's a great spot for photos and people-watching. However, know that aside from the National Gallery and surrounding shops and restaurants, there isn't much to do at the square itself.

St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is arguably the second must-see church in London (the first, of course, being Westminster Abbey ). With its imposing dome – one of the largest in the world – St. Paul's forms a predominant spot along London's skyline. It's also a survivor: Although an older incarnation burnt during the Great Fire of London in 1666, the current dome (designed by Sir Christopher Wren and officially completed in 1711) survived numerous World War II bombings.

To make the most of your visit, reviewers highly recommended climbing to the top of the dome to the Golden Gallery. You'll have to hike up 528 steps, but after catching your breath you'll enjoy far-reaching views of the River Thames, the  Tate Modern , and Shakespeare's Globe . And once you've seen the top, head below ground to the crypt (the largest in Europe), where the tombs of notable figures such as Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington as well as Wren are housed. Though some reviewers are put off by the pricey admission, most agree that a peek inside is well worth the extra coin.

Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Before or after your visit, head next door to the Science Museum to browse interactive exhibits and live science shows, and catch a film at the IMAX, one of the UK's biggest screens (entry to the museum itself is free, though some exhibitions are extra). – Laura French

Located in South Kensington, this museum brims with data from 70,000 different species (from animals to tiny protozoa) and exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaur bones to simulated earthquakes. The Natural History Museum is also a favorite among families, so you'll find it crawling with kids.

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St. James's Park St. James's Park free

One of London's eight Royal Parks, St. James's Park is nearly 57 acres. It's surrounded by three palaces: its namesake St. James’s Palace, Westminster (now the Houses of Parliament ) and Buckingham Palace . The park's semi-circular flower beds – the Memorial Gardens – which sit beside Buckingham are one of its major attractions. The park is flanked one side by the Mall, a route for royal processions that bisects the gardens and on another by the Horse Guards Parade, a parade ground where the annual Trooping the Colour is held. Other notable buildings nearby include No. 10 Downing Street (the Prime Minister's residence) and the Churchill War Rooms . The park also features a portion of the 7-mile Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk and provides habitat for various animal species, including foxes and ducks as well as its famed pelicans. Additionally, runners race through St. James's park as the final leg of the annual London Marathon.

Visitors invariably find the park to be quite stunning and well-maintained. It’s deemed an excellent place for walking while admiring the many historical structures nearby.

National Gallery National Gallery free

Sitting in Trafalgar Square, London's National Gallery features a labyrinth interior so large that it requires a color-coded map to navigate. The museum features paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to early 20th centuries, including Italian Renaissance masterpieces and French Impressionist works. Among its 2,300 in-house pieces, visitors will find famed paintings, such as Botticelli's "Venus and Mars," Rembrandt’s “Self Portrait at the Age of 34” and Van Gogh's "Sunflowers." 

Recent visitors loved the variety of paintings at the National Gallery, saying that travelers may need more than a day to get a glimpse at all the masterpieces that grace its never-ending halls. They also commend the gallery's cafe.

Borough Market Borough Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Across from Borough Market sits the Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garrett: a tiny museum housed in an 18th-century attic of that's the oldest surviving operating theatre (think: operating room) in Europe. It displays intriguing artifacts about the gruesome medical practices of the past. – Laura French

The food-focused Borough Market is effectively three markets in one (with restaurants, bars and shops interspersed throughout). Three Crown Square features large producers and merchants while Green Market has smaller, specialty ones. You'll find everything from cheese to wine to pastries to produce. Borough Market Kitchen provides a platform for street-food vendors. The roughly 1,000-year-old market regularly hosts cooking demonstrations and classes.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick an early tour time and explore slowly. There is so much to see that you may miss small details if you go too quickly. And don't worry about time. Once you're inside, you can stay as long as you like (well, until closing). – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Located at the studios where all eight of the "Harry Potter" films were produced, this is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the Wizarding World. Visitors can view original film sets – from the Great Hall to Gringotts, Diagon Alley to the Gryffindor Common Room – with hundreds of original props and costumes to browse. Glimpse the model used for Hogwarts Castle, learn about Hagrid's animatronic head, visit Platform 9 ¾ and board the Hogwarts Express; this is a comprehensive, interactive tour for the whole family that's well worth adding to your London bucket list.

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

Home to more than 40 British monarchs and in use since the 11th century, Windsor Castle is a spectacular daytrip from London. Visitors can wander the elaborate state rooms, observe the famous Changing the Guard and admire the many artworks and collectibles on display. Should time allow, take a stroll along the Long Walk: a nearly 3-mile-long tree-lined road that is part of the castle's park. Though you'll find a cafe and souvenir shop on-site, Windsor (the town) offers a bevy of dining and shopping options.

Though always crowded, a visit to Windsor should not be missed. Time and again, travelers say that it is a wonderful place to see while in London, and many were repeat visitors. Additionally, travelers with mobility issues said they had little trouble exploring the castle.

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Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're able, opt for a standing ticket at the performance. You'll get a more authentic experience, plus your proximity to the actors lets you admire their facial expressions and costumes. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

This is not the Globe Theatre of Shakespeare's time. The original Globe Theatre – which staged Shakespeare's plays and where the Bard wrote "Twelfth Night," "King Lear," and several others – opened in 1599 and burned down in 1613. The second Globe was erected in 1614 but was then torn down in 1644, after all theaters where shuttered by Parliament. The current incarnation – referred to as the Globe Theatre by its staff – has been in operation since 1997 and it is a celebrated performing arts venue dedicated to staging the Bard's plays. In a nod to its much older namesake, today's open-air theater has a thatched roof – the only one in the city – that does not cover the central yard. Seating is in the round. Or, for a truly memorable experience, you can choose to stand in the yard just below the stage to watch a performance (as many did in Shakespeare's time).  

Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in December to see Carols at the Royal Albert Hall; it's a spectacular, sing-along show guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. – Laura French

Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall where musicians of all genres perform. It also hosts special non-concert events, including sporting events and dance performances. The building's famed 20,000-square-foot iron roof was the largest unsupported dome in the world when it was installed in 1869 (two years before the hall officially opened). An 800-foot long, 5,200-square-foot mosaic frieze dubbed "The Triumph of Arts and Letters" encircles the structure's exterior. The hall can accommodate 5,900 people.

Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

The palatial Victoria & Albert Museum, named in honor of the 19th-century royal couple, is known more commonly in its shortened form – the V&A. Located in South Kensington, this free museum is a compendium of applied art across a number of genres, disciplines and time periods. The collections are arranged by categories, such as sculptures, Chinese artifacts, and so on, making it slightly easier to navigate this mammoth museum. Among the permanent collections, the V&A also offers diverse temporary exhibitions and free weekly public lectures.

Recent travelers praised the variety and sheer enormity of the art offered here. Many described its permanent collection as surprise around every corner. If you've only set aside a few hours to tour the museum, consult the building's map before you go; a map will help you plan a route of the collections you'd like to see and maximize your visit.

Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

Along with Parliament and Big Ben, Tower Bridge is London's next must-see architectural marvel, not to mention the most famous bridge that crosses the Thames. Construction on the bridge started in 1886, which means it's practically modern by London standards, but Tower Bridge stands out for its stunning detail and moveable roadways that lift up when large ships need to pass through. The views from the bridge are an added bonus. From the elevated sidewalks visitors get a prime view of the  Tower of London ,  St. Paul's Cathedral's iconic dome, the London Eye and The Monument.

If you're interested in viewing the city from a higher vantage point (about 137 feet above the Thames), consider a visit inside Tower Bridge, during which you go to the top of the bridge – equipped with a glass floor – as well as to the bottom to the engine rooms. However, recent visitors say that those who are afraid of heights might want to forgo walking across the glass floor.

Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, which Henry VIII acquired in the 1520s and subsequently expanded, features the Grand Hall (with Anne Boleyn's coat of arms carved in the ceiling and antique tapestries on the walls) and the largest kitchens in Tudor England (capable of producing 800 meals a day). Its grounds include 60 acres of formal gardens complete with the oldest surviving hedge maze in the country as well as the largest grape vine in the world.

Past visitors observe that there’s a lot to see and that the huge palace necessitates a lot of walking. They also recommend the audio tour, which is included in the ticket price. The gardens are frequently singled out as worthy of attention.

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Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

Meandering just shy of 9 miles from Paddington in the west to the Limehouse Basin in the east, this charming river walk offers an idyllic escape from the bustle of the city. It passes several postcard-pretty spots, including Little Venice, where quaint cafes, pubs and restaurants sit on the waterfront; Regent's Park, one of London's most popular green spaces and the home of London Zoo; and Camden Lock, famous for its markets, street food stalls and antique shops. You'll also get to see the East End, including trendy Dalston, Victoria Park (home to a farmers market every Sunday) and Mile End.

There's history behind it, too; the canal opened in the early 19th century to transport coal, building materials and other goods from northern industrial cities to King's Cross – a long-standing center for trade – and operated for more than 140 years.

Camden Market Camden Market free

Londoners and out-of-towners alike enjoy spending a morning (or afternoon) at the Camden Market. Camden Market is actually multiple markets spread out in the neighborhood of Camden. It sprawls with more than 1,000 stalls, shops, bars and cafes carrying close to everything, from furniture to food and lots of fashion. Looking for cheap graphic T-shirts and dresses? Head over to the first set of Camden Market stalls located closest to the Tube station. If you're looking for more of a mix of items, walk over the bridge to the lock market, situated on the peaceful Camden Lock. You'll find stalls filled with antiques, clothing, souvenirs and a variety of food stalls. Food on offer ranges from traditional fish and chips to Middle Eastern fare, hot dogs and Portuguese tarts. This area gives way to the long and winding stables market, consisting of vendors selling vintage home decor, leather goods and clothing.

It's easy to get lost in this market, but with all it has to offer, including cool restaurants and bars tucked between nooks and crannies, visitors agree it's also very fun. The only grievance travelers had concerned the massive crowds that form during the weekend. If you don't want to be shopping amidst wall-to-wall people, consider visiting during the week. Even if you're not intent on shopping, many visitors recommend the market for its diverse food stalls. You can find the Camden Market off of the Camden Town, or Chalk Farm Tube stops, as well as the Camden Road Overground stop. Bus routes nos. 24, 214, 274 and 393 also stop in the area.

Tate Modern Tate Modern free

Located on the South Bank along the Thames, the Tate Modern is part of a group of four museums (all named Tate) which house the 70,000 artworks that comprise the national collection of British art. As its name suggest, this Tate holds the more contemporary-style pieces than its three other counterparts, making it more of a hit or miss among travelers. Dalí and Picasso, as well as many British artists, are represented inside this repurposed power plant – but you'll find the works are scattered. Art is grouped by theme rather than by artist.

Recent visitors said if you're a fan of contemporary and modern art, you'll enjoy the Tate Modern. If you're partial to antiquities or the more traditional works of art, you'll probably be better served at the  British Museum  or the  National Gallery . Art aside, the eateries located within the museum may be enough of a reason for travelers to visit. Both the Espresso Bar and Kitchen and Bar at Tate Modern afford stunning views of  St. Paul's Cathedral , which is situated on the other side of the river. At the very least, take a stroll along the Thames to view the museum's impressive exterior.

Greenwich Greenwich free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Skip the tube and hop on an Uber Boat to arrive in Greenwich by water – they depart from various stops along the Thames, including Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Westminster and the London Eye, with single fares from £5.20. – Laura French

Sitting southeast of central London, Greenwich is a great daytrip within city limits and well worth the trek. Greenwich's claim to fame is undoubtedly the Royal Observatory, where the prime meridian bisects the institution and travelers can stand on both the eastern and western hemispheres. Other favorite museums and attractions include the Greenwich Market, the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Greenwich Market. 

Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

Famous for its waxworks, this was the first Madame Tussauds museum in the world, established in 1884 on Marylebone Road to display works by French sculptor Marie Tussaud. During the French Revolution, Tussaud was forced craft works of executed nobles – including King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette – to prove she was loyal to the crown. Following the end of the revolution, she left France and traveled to Britain, bringing the waxworks with her, in the early 1800s. Today, the museum upholds the waxwork tradition, with more than 150 realistic-looking figures displayed across 11 zones – from Leonardo DiCaprio to Lady Gaga, Brad Pitt to Harry Styles and Barack Obama to King Charles III.

Recent visitors were impressed and said they enjoyed exploring the different themed areas – from "Star Wars" to "Marvel" – as well as the new Chamber of Horrors room, which explores London's historic criminals. The taxi-themed ride and Marvel 4D show were also a hit, and many recommended it for families, especially those with teenagers. Several commented that lines can be long, even with pre-booked tickets, and it can get crowded inside.

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Up at The O2 Up at The O2

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go early in the morning for crisp air and fewer crowds. Afterwards, head southwest to Greenwich for some food and shopping at Greenwich Market. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Climb over the roof of The O2 – London's arena for major musical and sporting events – for unparalleled views of the city. The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf are among the sights observable from the 170-foot apex. Excursions generally take about 90 minutes, with an hour of walking that travelers typically find rewarding.

Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

Locals and tourists alike tend to adore Portobello Road Market. Located in the posh Notting Hill neighborhood (made famous by the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts movie of the same name), the market stretches down the long Portobello Road, which is considered to be the area's high street (or main street). The market is filled with hundreds of merchants of all kinds selling a variety of common flea market items including antiques, art, jewelry, clothing and food. But what stands out about Portobello Market (aside from its adorably colorful location) is its collection of antiques and quintessentially English items. In just a few blocks, visitors can find a wellie shop, scores of vintage tea sets, quality London souvenirs and Banksy recreations. The market is also billed as being the largest antiques market in the world. If you have a penchant for fashion, the best sampling is found at the end of the market near the Ladbroke Grove Tube stop. There, visitors will not only find the greatest concentration of locals but a great selection of vintage attire as well.

Recent visitors loved Portobello Market for its lively atmosphere, wide selection of items and cheap food stalls. Although many lauded the quality found at the food stalls, some urged visitors to check out nearby restaurants, as many serve exceptional British and international fare. Others also advised visitors to pay close attention to their belongings. Portobello Market is not only very crowded, but concentrated on a narrow street, creating an easy opportunity for pickpockets to strike. 

The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

Delve into London's macabre past at this interactive attraction, which explores the history of Jack the Ripper, Guy Fawkes, Sweeney Todd and other criminals through live actors, exhibits and rides. Smell, see and hear the city of yesteryear as you wander through the underground vaults of County Hall on the South Bank, exploring a darker side to this bustling city.

Travelers said the London Dungeon was a great way to get a glimpse into the history of the city and were impressed with the quality of acting and special effects. Many enjoyed the rides and other surprises, although some noted it can be frightening for younger children (a minimum age of 12 is recommended). Some also said it was expensive, but discounts are available when tickets are combined with entry to nearby attractions, including Madame Tussauds and the London Eye.

London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

Step inside the London Transport Museum to explore the history of getting around London. Exhibits detail the first London Underground, how the city expanded, Victorian-era transport and much more. Plus, there are multiple hands-on exhibits to keep young ones entertained.

Overall, travelers were pleased with their visits to the museum and found the history fascinating. Others note it's very family-friendly, so you should expect tons of kids during a visit (unless you visit in the late afternoon, when the museum says it's a bit quieter). 

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

The collection here includes works by renowned artists such as Titian, Velazquez and Van Dyck as well as various medieval and Renaissance objects. The collection was assembled in the 18th and 19th centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace and then donated to Great Britain. The permanent collection centers on European paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries and includes notable French paintings and decorative arts from the 18th century. Special exhibits tend to focus on individual artists, such as Frans Hals and Peter Paul Rubens. Before going to see the fine and decorative arts on display in person, you can explore more than 400 items using a free digital guide available from the museum's website .

Art lovers generally find much to enjoy here, and many suggest it merits repeat visits. Some opine that the signs could provide more information about the items on view.

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Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms are the underground bunker that Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his war cabinet used to shelter from bomb raids and plot their steps during World War II. The maze-like corridors tell the story of this volatile time period, centering on the larger-than-life leader that Churchill was.

Travelers describe the Churchill War Rooms as fascinating, and more than one traveler calls it a favorite London attraction. Some say that the rooms are much bigger than they had imagined and that people tend to spend a lot of time soaking in the exhibits and information. Others say that the exhibits have a strange layout, which can lead to confusion when trying to follow the sequence of events. Additionally, this popular spot gets crowded, so most museumgoers recommend that visitors get to the Churchill War Rooms early to avoid a long wait.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Europe’s top affordable tourist attraction is in a ‘truly magical’ city — with UK flights from just £29

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After a culture-drenched holiday that won’t break the bank? Granada in Spain is the place to be.

In a recent study, the Andalucian city’s premier tourist site, The Alhambra, was voted the top affordable attraction in Europe, making it the ideal starting point for your next break.

Credit card firm Aqua looked at over 60 things to do across the continent, factoring in online ratings, ticket prices, and the amount a bite to eat costs nearby.

The Alhambra – a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 9th century – was praised for its 4.5 star Tripadvisor rating – only 0.15% of which mentioned it was ‘overpriced’ or ‘expensive’.

Visitors to the ancient Islamic fortress complex can enjoy a nature-filled walk on the way from Granada’s centre, all before taking in the storied past and breathtaking architecture of its Alcazaba military zone, the Nasrid Palaces, the gardens, and the Mosque baths.

There are also three museums within its walls to explore, displaying the building’s history, a large collection of fine art, and a special exhibition dedicated to grenadine composer and guitarist Angel Barrios.

It wasn’t the cheapest on the list, with an adult entrance fee of €19.09 (£16.08). However, the £6 average cost for an inexpensive meal in the surrounding area gave it considerable bonus points.

Alongside this stunning monument, Granada has plenty to offer, described as ‘the most beautiful city in Spain’ by Tripadvisor user Jdunmore88.

‘A truly magical place that you will never want to leave,’ wrote another, young_travellers88, adding: ‘I recommend Granada to anyone who is wanting a mixture of city life and sightseeing. You really get a true feel for Spain, not like some tacky resort overrun with tourists!’

Kallirache called it ‘a city of hidden gems and spectacular views’ while habibiAgadir wrote: ‘One of the most fantastic cities I’ve ever visited, Granada has an ambiance that’s hard to describe.’

We’re sold – and here are the details you need ahead of travelling to Granada if you are too.

Things to do in Granada

As well as The Alhambra, Granada is a haven for history buffs, with a vast cathedral built in 1505, and buildings such as the Capilla Real palace, the Corral del Carbon, and the Palacio de la Madraza providing beauty as well as a feel for Andalusia’s past.

@evie.jen.rose Granada is honestly my favourite spot in Europe – so so underrated!! Here are my top 5 things to see while visiting this stunner of a city: 1. Wandering around town 🏛️ It’s such a lively city, so anywhere you’ll go you won’t be short of entertainment, good food and amazing architecture. 2. Alhambra ⛪️ A MUST SEE! To see the Palacios Nazaries you do have to pre buy tickets (and they sell out fast), but you are able to see the Jardines del Generalife and the Alcazaba for free (just bring your passport as they scan them on entry). If you’d like to book a tour, the best way is to book through their direct site – My Top Tour Granada. I booked through this site and they honestly didn’t check my ticket once, so it is possible to get in for free. 3. Generalife 🪴 Honestly so worth the hype. It’s the perfect place if you’d like to read a book or take in its beautiful features. 4. Shopping in Alcaicería 🛍️ Right behind the Catedral de Granada you’ll find a little hidden market which is so cute with unique giftware. You will also find about 2mins from the market a traditional churro shop – highly recommend. 5. Flamenco 💃 If you have the chance to go see a Flamenco… do it!! It’s not exactly the cheapest, but at Camino del Sacramonte you get a whole other experience along with a free drink on entry. Any other questions re tours etc. don’t hesitate to ask 🫶🏻 #granadaspain #granadaspain🇪🇸 #alhambragranada #mustseespain #backpackerspain #solobackpackerspain #solofemaletraveler ♬ Ella Baila Sola – Eslabon Armado & Peso Pluma

Alternatively, take in the views of the city from the San Nicolas viewpoint, from which Bill Clinton reportedly saw ‘the most beautiful sunset in the world’ on his 1997 visit. 

Food is a big deal in Granada, and you’ll find a wealth of tapas bars in the Albaicin neighbourhood as well as the area around the cathedral. Many bars here offer free food with every drink purchased, which is ideal if you’re on a budget and want to sample the local cuisine.

Flamenco is also a point of pride here, so it’s well worth heading to Sacromonte to feel the evening buzz and enjoy one of the many nightly Granaina flamenco shows. During the day, hit the Sacromonte Caves Museum for a look into the unique culture of the cave homes inhabited by Roma people throughout the generations.

Unwind at the Hammam Al Ándalus, a replica of the 11th century Arab baths where you can soak in hot and cold waters and be thoroughly pampered. And don’t forget to get some retail therapy on at the Alcaiceria Market, Plaza Larga Market, and Fajalauza Ceramics.

Where to stay in Granada

According to Booking.com, the majority of hotels in Granada tend to be priced between around £100 and £200 a night, with budget hostel dormitory beds starting from £22 if you don’t mind a more basic place to stay.

These are a few of our favourite accommodation options on the site*, with something for every price range.

• Futurotel Spa Garden : £84
• Hotel Saray : £126
• Casa de Reyes : £139
• Gran Hotel Luna de Granada : £158
• Hotel La Casa de Los Mosaicos : £170

*For a night in a double room rated ‘good’ or above on Saturday October 5, 2024. Prices checked on September 2, 2024.

How to get to Granada

From the UK, you can fly to Granada direct from London Gatwick via Vueling, with fares starting from £55 if you book last-minute.

For most though, a flight to Malaga – which takes just under three hours – followed by a 90-minute train, bus or car ride on to your destination is the most convenient way to get there

Over 400 flights per week run from airports across the UK, with prices starting from just £29 return depending on when you go.

@pointspat Why you should visit: Granada 🇪🇸 Granada, Spain is one of the most incredible cities in Europe, with so much to see and do. Visiting the Alhambra and a Flamenco show are musts #travel #granada #spain #granadaspain #alhambra #flamenco #whyyoushouldvisit ♬ I Think I Like When It Rains – WILLIS

When to visit Granada

The cheapest month to travel to Granada, according to Skyscanner, is November, when return flights come in almost £80 cheaper than in the peak month of August.

Of course, you’ll also have to factor in the weather: In July and August, the average temperature sits at around 24°C, far balmier than January when it drops to 6°C.

Rainfall also peaks over the winter (with up to 10 days’ rain around Christmas time) so bring a brolly if you’re worried about getting caught in a shower.

Alternatively, you may want to time your trip with one of the many events in Granada throughout the year.

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Daily horoscope today: September 2, 2024 astrological predictions for your star sign

Corpus Christi, in May or June, is one of the largest of these, with puppet shows, bullfights, processions, and flamenco performances, while music festivals and religious celebrations throughout the year see locals out in force.

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Money blog: Oasis resale U-turn as official reseller lowers fee amid criticism

The Money blog is your place for consumer and personal finance news and tips. Today's posts include Twickets lowering fees for Oasis tickets, the extension of the Household Support Fund and O2 Priority axing free Greggs. Listen to a Daily podcast on the Oasis ticket troubles as you scroll.

Monday 2 September 2024 20:11, UK

• Oasis resale U-turn as Twickets lowers fee after criticism
• Millions to get cost of living payments this winter as scheme extended
• O2 Priority customers fume as Greggs perk scaled back
• Listen to the Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts

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Twickets has announced it is lowering its charges after some Oasis fans had to pay more than £100 in extra fees to buy official resale tickets.

The site is where the band themselves is directing people to buy second-hand tickets for face value - having warned people against unofficial third party sellers like StubHub and Viagogo.

One person branded the extra fees "ridiculous" (see more in 10.10 post), after many people had already been left disappointed at the weekend when Ticketmaster's dynamic pricing pushed tickets up by three times the original advertised fee.

Twickets said earlier that it typically charged a fee of 10-15% of the face value of the tickets.

But it has since said it will lower the charge due to "exceptional demand" from Oasis fans - taking ownership of an issue in a way fans will hope others follow. 

Richard Davies, Twickets founder, told the Money blog: "Due to the exceptional demand for the Oasis tour in 2025, Twickets have taken the decision to lower our booking fee to 10% and a 1% transactional fee (to cover bank charges) for all buyers of their tickets on our platform. In addition we have introduced a fee cap of £25 per ticket for these shows. Sellers of tickets already sell free of any Twickets charge.

"This ensures that Twickets remains hugely competitive against the secondary market, including sites such as Viagogo, Gigsberg and StubHub.

"Not only do these platforms inflate ticket prices way beyond their original face value but they also charge excessive booking fees, usually in the region of 30-40%. Twickets by comparison charges an average fee of around 12.5%"

The fee cap, which the Money blog understands is being implemented today, will apply to anyone who has already bought resale tickets through the site.

Mr Davies said Twickets was a "fan first" resale site and a "safe and affordable place" for people to trade unwanted tickets.

"The face value of a ticket is the total amount it was first purchased for, including any booking fee. Twickets does not set the face value price, that is determined by the event and the original ticketing company. The price listed on our platform is set by the seller, however no one is permitted to sell above the face-value on Twickets, and every ticket is checked before listing that it complies with this policy," he said.

Meanwhile, hundreds of people have complained to the regulator about how Oasis tickets were advertised ahead of going on sale. 

The Advertising Standards Authority said it had received 450 complaints about Ticketmaster adverts for the gigs.

Some  expressed their anger on social media , as tickets worth £148 were being sold for £355 on the site within hours of release, due to the "dynamic pricing" systems.

A spokesperson from ASA said the complainants argue that the adverts made "misleading claims about availability and pricing".

They added: "We're carefully assessing these complaints and, as such, can't comment any further at this time.

"To emphasise, we are not currently investigating these ads."

Ticketmaster said it does not set prices and its website says this is down to the "event organiser" who "has priced these tickets according to their market value".

Despite traditionally being an affordable staple of British cuisine, the average price for a portion of fish and chips has risen by more than 50% in the past five years to nearly £10, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Sonny and Shane "the codfather" Lee told Sky News of the challenges that owning J-Henry's Fish and Chip Shop brings and why prices have skyrocketed. 

"Potatoes, fish, utilities, cooking oil - so many things [are going up]," he said. 

Shane also said that he is used to one thing at a time increasing in price, but the outlook today sees multiple costs going up all at once.  

"Potatoes [were] priced right up to about £25 a bag - the previous year it was about £10 a bag," Sonny said, noting a bad harvest last year. 

He said the business had tried hake as a cheaper fish option, but that consumers continued to prefer the more traditional, but expensive, cod and haddock. 

"It's hard and we can we can absorb the cost to a certain extent, but some of it has to be passed on," Shane added. 

After a long Saturday for millions of Oasis fans in online queues, the culture secretary says surge pricing - which pushed the price of some tickets up by three times their original advertised value to nearly £400 - will be part of the government's review of the ticket market. 

On today's episode of the Daily podcast, host Niall Paterson speaks to secondary ticketing site Viagogo. While it wasn’t part of dynamic pricing, it has offered resale tickets for thousands of pounds since Saturday. 

Matt Drew from the company accepts the industry needs a full review, while Adam Webb, from the campaign group FanFair Alliance, explains the changes it would like to see.

We've covered the fallout of the Oasis sale extensively in the Money blog today - see the culture secretary's comments on the "utterly depressing" inflated pricing in our post at 6.37am, and Twickets, the official Oasis resale site, slammed by angry fans for its "ridiculous" added fees at 10.10am.

The growing backlash culminated in action from Twickets - the company said it would lower its charges after some fans had to pay more than £100 in extra fees for resale tickets (see post at 15.47).

Tap here to follow the Daily podcast - 20 minutes on the biggest stories every day

Last week we reported that employers will have to offer flexible working hours - including a four-day week - to all workers under new government plans.

To receive their full pay, employees would still have to work their full hours but compressed into a shorter working week - something some workplaces already do.

Currently, employees can request flexible hours as soon as they start at a company but employers are not legally obliged to agree.

The Labour government now wants to make it so employers have to offer flexible hours from day one, except where it is "not reasonably feasible".

You can read more of the details in this report by our politics team:

But what does the public think about this? We asked our followers on LinkedIn to give their thoughts in an unofficial poll.

It revealed that the overwhelming majority of people support the idea to compress the normal week's hours into fewer days - some 83% of followers said they'd choose this option over a standard five-day week.

But despite the poll showing a clear preference for a compressed week, our followers appeared divided in the comments.

"There's going to be a huge brain-drain as people move away from companies who refuse to adapt with the times and implement a 4 working week. This will be a HUGE carrot for many orgs," said Paul Burrows, principal software solutions manager at Reality Capture.

Louise McCudden, head of external affairs at MSI Reproductive Choices, said she wasn't surprised at the amount of people choosing longer hours over fewer days as "a lot of people" are working extra hours on a regular basis anyway.

But illustrator and administrative professional Leslie McGregor noted the plan wouldn't be possible in "quite a few industries and quite a few roles, especially jobs that are customer centric and require 'round the clock service' and are heavily reliant upon people in trades, maintenance, supply and transport". 

"Very wishful thinking," she said.

Paul Williamson had a similar view. He said: "I'd love to know how any customer first service business is going to manage this."

We reported earlier that anyone with O2 Priority will have their free weekly Greggs treats replaced by £1 monthly Greggs treats - see 6.21am post.

But did you know there are loads of other ways to get food from the nation's most popular takeaway for free or at a discount?

Downloading the Greggs app is a good place to start - as the bakery lists freebies, discounts and special offers there regularly. 

New users also get rewards just for signing up, so it's worth checking out. 

And there's a digital loyalty card which you can add virtual "stamps" to with each purchase to unlock discounts or other freebies.  

Vodafone rewards

Seriously begrudged Virgin Media O2 customers may want to consider switching providers. 

The Vodafone Rewards app, VeryMe, sometimes gives away free Greggs coffees, sausage rolls, sweet treats and more to customers.

Monzo bank account holders can grab a sausage roll (regular or vegan), regular sized hot drink, doughnut or muffin every week. 

Birthday cake

Again, you'll need the Greggs award app for this one - which will allow you to claim one free cupcake, cream cake or doughnut for your birthday each year.

Octopus customers

Octopus Energy customers with smart meters can claim one free drink each week, in-store from Greggs (or Caffè Nero).

The Greggs freebie must be a regular size hot drink.

Make new friends

If you're outgoing (and hungry), it may be worth befriending a Greggs staff member.

The staff discount at Greggs is 50% on own-produced goods and 25% off branded products. 

If you aren't already aware, Iceland offers four Greggs sausage rolls in a multi-pack for £3. 

That means, if you're happy to bake it yourself, you'll only be paying 74p per sausage roll. 

Millions of Britons could receive extra cash to help with the cost of living this winter after the government extended the Household Support Fund.

A £421m pot will be given to local councils in England to distribute, while £79m will go to the devolved administrations.

The fund will now be available until April 2025 having been due to run out this autumn.

Councils decide how to dish out their share of the fund but it's often via cash grants or vouchers.

Many councils also use the cash to work with local charities and community groups to provide residents with key appliances, school uniforms, cookery classes and items to improve energy efficiency in the home.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: "The £22bn blackhole inherited from the previous governments means we have to take tough decisions to fix the foundations of our economy.

"But extending the Household Support Fund is the right thing to do - provide targeted support for those who need it most as we head into the winter months."

The government has been criticised for withdrawing universal winter fuel payments for pensioners of up to £300 this winter - with people now needing to be in receipt of certain means-tested benefits to qualify.

People should contact their local council for details on how to apply for the Household Support Fund - they can find their council  here .

Lloyds Bank app appears to have gone down for many, with users unable to see their transactions. 

Down Detector, which monitors site outages, has seen more than 600 reports this morning.

It appears to be affecting online banking as well as the app.

There have been some suggestions the apparent issue could be due to an update.

Another disgruntled user said: "Absolutely disgusting!! I have an important payment to make and my banking is down. There was no warning given prior to this? Is it a regular maintenance? Impossible to get hold of someone to find out."

A Lloyds Bank spokesperson told Sky News: "We know some of our customers are having issues viewing their recent transactions and our app may be running slower than usual.

"We're sorry about this and we're working to have everything back to normal soon."

We had anger of unofficial resale prices, then Ticketmaster's dynamic pricing - and now fees on the official resale website are causing consternation among Oasis fans.

The band has encouraged anyone wanting resale tickets to buy them at face value from Ticketmaster or Twickets - after some appeared for £6,000 or more on other sites.

"Tickets appearing on other secondary ticketing sites are either counterfeit or will be cancelled by the promoters," Oasis said.

With that in mind, fans flocked to buy resale tickets from the sites mentioned above - only to find further fees are being added on. 

Mainly Oasis, a fan page, shared one image showing a Twickets fee for two tickets as high as £138.74. 

"Selling the in demand tickets completely goes against the whole point of their company too… never mind adding a ridiculous fee on top of that," the page shared. 

Fan Brad Mains shared a photo showing two tickets priced at £337.50 each (face value of around £150, but increased due to dynamic pricing on Saturday) - supplemented by a £101.24 Twickets fee. 

That left him with a grand total of £776.24 to pay for two tickets.

"Actually ridiculous this," he  said on X .

"Ticketmaster inflated price then sold for 'face value' on Twickets with a £100 fee. 2 x £150 face value tickets for £776, [this] should be illegal," he added. 

Twickets typically charges between 10-15% of the ticket value as its own fee. 

We have approached the company for comment.

Separately, the government is now looking at the practice of dynamic pricing - and we've had a response to that from the Competition and Markets Authority this morning.

It said: "We want fans to get a fair deal when they go to buy tickets on the secondary market and have already taken action against major resale websites to ensure consumer law is being followed properly. 

"But we think more protections are needed for consumers here, so it is positive that the government wants to address this. We now look forward to working with them to get the best outcomes for fans and fair-playing businesses."

Consumer protection law does not ban dynamic pricing and it is a widely used practice. However, the law also states that businesses should not mislead consumers about the price they must pay for a product, either by providing false or deceptive information or by leaving out important information or providing it too late.

By James Sillars , business reporter

It's a false start to the end of the summer holidays in the City.

While London is mostly back at work, trading is fairly subdued due to the US Labor (that's labour, as in work) Day holiday.

US markets will not open again until Tuesday.

There's little direction across Europe with the FTSE 100 trading nine points down at 8,365.

Leading the gainers was Rightmove - up 24%. The property search website is the subject of a possible cash and shares takeover offer by Australian rival REA.

The company is a division of Rupert Murdoch's News Corp.

One other point to note is the continuing fluctuation in oil prices.

Brent crude is 0.7% down at the start of the week at $76.

Dragging the cost lower is further evidence of weaker demand in China.

Australia's REA Group is considering a takeover of Rightmove, in a deal which could be worth about £4.36bn.

REA Group said in a statement this morning there are "clear similarities" between the companies, which have "highly aligned cultural values".

Rightmove is the UK's largest online property portal, while REA is Australia's largest property website. 

It employs more than 2,800 people and is majority-owned by Rupert Murdoch's News Corp,.

REA Group said: "REA sees a transformational opportunity to apply its globally leading capabilities and expertise to enhance customer and consumer value across the combined portfolio, and to create a global and diversified digital property company, with number one positions in Australia and the UK.

"There can be no certainty that an offer will be made, nor as to the terms on which any offer may be made."

Rightmove has been approached for comment.

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