The United Kingdom is composed of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom has long been a favorite European tourist destination for many because of its beautiful countryside, historic cities, top notch museums and outstanding theaters. From medieval castles to stately mansions and the awe-inspiring scenery of the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands, there are a diverse set of best places to visit in the UK.
1) London, United Kingdom
The crown jewels, Buckingham Palace, Camden Market…in London, history collides with art, fashion, food, and good British ale. A perfect day is different for everyone: culture aficionados shouldn’t miss the Tate Modern and the Royal Opera House. If you love fashion, Oxford Street has shopping galore. For foodies, cream tea at Harrod’s or crispy fish from a proper chippy offers classic London flavor. Music and book buffs will love seeing Abbey Road and the Sherlock Holmes Museum (at 221B Baker Street, of course).
2) Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Steeped in Celtic and medieval history, Edinburgh is a cultural tapestry that’s largely visually defined by hills, cathedrals, and the bold stone turrets of Edinburgh Castle. The city is also festival-happy – it’s the site of several annual celebrations of art, music, theater, and comedy. Cheer on your favorite team at a football or rugby match, then relax over a pint in a local pub. A Scotch Whisky tour is a must, as is pinching your nose and digging bravely into a steaming plate of haggis.
3) Liverpool, United Kingdom
Liverpool’s fortunes have historically been tied to shipping. But imports and exports like sugar, spice, and tobacco pale in comparison with Liverpool’s most famous export of all—the Beatles. Relive the hysteria at the Beatles Story Experience, and check out Paul’s childhood home, but also leave time for exploring Liverpool Cathedral and the Walker Art Gallery.
4) Llandudno, United Kingdom
Walk or take the tram to the summit of the Great Orme—you’ll be rewarded with a splendid view of Llandudno, a popular seaside resort in Wales. (Just take a jacket. It can be chilly up there.) On your way up, stop at the Great Orme Copper Mine for a fascinating look at how copper was mined 3,000 years ago.
5) Blackpool, United Kingdom
The UK’s favorite holiday resort continues to attract millions of visitors. Families and couples, young and old, Blackpool’s unique appeal is that it appeals to everyone. Whether you’re looking for thrills and excitement, family entertainment and historic gems or beautiful gardens and stunning beaches, Blackpool has it all. Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Sandcastle Waterpark, Blackpool Zoo, the Blackpool Tower, the Illuminations and packed year-round events calendar all add to the charms of this seaside spot.
10 Best Places to visit in the UK
6) Torquay, United Kingdom
Mild ocean breezes, sandy beaches and swaying Torbay Palms give the small English town of Torquay a distinctively Mediterranean feel. More than just a beach spot, Torquay boasts an enormous coastal aviary and the famous Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves. Agatha Christie spent most of her life here, and the city is now home to multiple film companies. With such a rich literary history, Torquay may be the perfect place to finish writing that novel or screenplay, or just to relax with a good mystery.
7) York, United Kingdom
Just two hours north of London by rail, the city of York holds 1900 years’ worth of history in its ancient walls. The Romans built the city in 71 AD, and the Vikings captured it in 866 AD. Stop by the Yorkshire Museum and Gardens for a look at what the Roman and Vikings left behind (they must have packed light when they left). From there, move on to the York Castle Museum for a not-so-quick overview of the most recent 400 years.
8) Bath, United Kingdom
Known for its restorative wonders, Bath was once the home of Jane Austen. Sure, you could attempt to conjure up this elegant city by reading Pride and Prejudice in your tub, but as Bath has a lot more history than your bathroom (we assume, anyway) you’d be missing out. A stroll through Bath is like visiting an open-air museum, with roughly 5,000 buildings in the city drawing notice for their architectural merit. After your stroll, soak in the natural hot waters of the Thermae Bath Spa, once a favorite of the Celts and Romans.
9) Glasgow, United Kingdom
Scotland’s largest city is a friendly, bustling town with imposing 19th-century buildings, vibrant theater life, the most talked-about independent music scene outside the U.S. and watering holes that run the gamut from trendy bars to traditional pubs. The city’s buses and subway system make it easy to explore. Don’t miss the reopened Kelvingrove Art Museum, the Victorian Necropolis, or the surprisingly delicious local delicacy: deep-fried pizza. Glasgow is the gateway to the Highlands and Islands.
10) Manchester, United Kingdom
Famed for its soccer team and music scene, which has produced the likes of the Smiths and Oasis, this center for sports and the arts is a down-to-earth and friendly city. The so-called Capital of the North has overcome industrial decline, bombing (in WWII and by the IRA) to become a confident and cosmopolitan city of well over two million. It is well served by a bus and light rail network. Top attractions include the Lowry art complex, arcade Affleck’s Palace and Canal Street gay village.
