Last Updated on October 18, 2019 by WFD
The United Kingdom (UK), made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, has for many years been one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe; no doubt.
The country’s varied scenery, rich cultural heritage, and historical monuments are the key draws why tourists always visit the UK. The individual countries that make up the United Kingdom all have one thing in common. And that’s the best and extremely well-preserved castles, museums and world-class art galleries.
As a tourist, check out these fascinating places to visit in the UK.
The Best Places to Visit in the UK
Bath
Bath is one of the destinations that comes to mind when thinking of breathtaking places to visit in the UK. Bath is Somerset’s largest city particularly known for its inimitable Roman-built baths, the origin of the city’s endearing name.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath is an exciting city to explore – especially the luxurious natural thermal waters. Having all the historical appeal and architecture to entice an avid tourist, the city of Bath was intentionally built with pleasure and relaxation in mind. And interestingly, it’s the only destination in the UK where you can find natural thermal hot springs to bathe in – making it one of the unique destinations in the UK.
Due to the nature of the city, Bath has generated a spa culture that spans over 2,000 years. A must visit place is the Holburne Museum of Art. The art gallery is set within the park of Sydney Gardens. And it houses a rich collection of over 9,000 paintings, sculpture, furniture, and porcelain collected by Sir William Holburne. Works by Gainsborough, Guardi, Stubbs, and Turner can also be found here.
Other interesting things to do while in the City of Bath include visiting the Bath Aqua Theatre of Glass, the Bath Brew House, and participating in boat and walking tours.
A tour in this charming and sophisticated city feels like stepping back in time. From the sacred spring, the Roman temple, the Roman Baths, and a display of objects that were thrown into the water as offerings to the goddess Sulis Minerva will give you a lifelong fascinating memory of this glamorous location.
Visitors can see the awe-inspiring 18th Century Georgian architecture, the famed Royal Crescent, and learn about its heritage. It’s one of the greatest examples of Georgian architecture anywhere in the UK.
The city of Bath isn’t just an exciting and colorful place to de-stress but also an ideal destination for classical music and the perfect place to enjoy your tea.
Glasgow
Similar to Bath but with a different taste and experience, Glasgow offers a stunning architecture like one of the oldest surviving music halls in the world – the Britannia Panopticon which was built in the early 20th century.
Glasgow is home to over 20 museums and galleries. From the medieval Glasgow Cathedral to the Neo-Gothic University of Glasgow – believed to be the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Hogwarts, the Museum of Transport to the St Mungo Museum of Life and Art, there is truly something for everyone in UK’s third-largest city.
One of the spectacular collections can be found in Kelvingrove Art Gallery which houses amazing natural history collection, precious artwork by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Dali.
With the rich and varied architectural heritage coupled with the food and drink culture, visitors have the option to choose the traditional haggis or opt for the finest seafood.
They can also take calming walks along the banks of the River Clyde or join the energetic vibe of culture and nightlife hub.
Glasgow’s reputation for music is legendary; so much so that the city has been given UNESCO City of Music status.
Awe-inspiring Victorian Architecture and parks and gardens located throughout the city; you can always find a quiet time in the beautiful botanic gardens. Surely, Glasgow is definitely a place to visit in the UK.
Brighton
A beautiful pebble beachfront and an eight-mile coastline to massage your feet and mesmerize your gaze is truly the heart of Brighton.
Whether you’re taking the vacation for fun or just to relax, this extremely beautiful and lively city offers you an incredible history, culture, food, partying experience.
Places to visit in Brighton include the very photogenic Royal Pavilion – the vacation palace of King George IV, the Fish Museum where you can view sculptures, paintings, ceramics and jewelry of Brighton’s illustrious history.
You can try the Theatre Royal or Marlborough Pub and Theatre if you are into theater productions.
Bristol
Bristol is that city fond of the letter B. It is the city of bridges, balloons, boats, bikes, Brunel and Banksy. If you want to experience that cultural stimulation, the historic waterways, the warm friendly people and beautiful countryside or perhaps the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, then Bristol is the place to take that special vacation.
For historical sightseeing why not visit the grand bridge of the Avon Gorge opened in 1864. Take a tour through the city, from the artistic side of the city try the famous Banksy works of art and explore the harbourside and the tall peak of Park Street.
A scenic and affordable city that offers film festivals, theatre, outdoor and festive events reflect the heart of Bristol.
Whatever your taste in music, the comfortable feel and vibrant nightlife of Bristol will satisfy it.
Liverpool
Dreaming of the next big trip? Then you should add Liverpool to your travel bucket list for a great mix of history and a vibrant atmosphere.
Named European Culture Capital in 2008, this charming riverside city must be doing something right and is definitely the kind of place you should not miss when in the UK.
Liverpool is one destination that you’re sure to come across some of the friendliest and warm people in the world. Tour guides, cab drivers, restaurant workers and all manner of people engage you in a happy conversation to make your vacation amazing. In fact, it’s the city where you can be yourself and not be judged for whatever you love to do.
Large shopping destinations like Liverpool One, The Metquarter, Cavern Walks, numerous gardens and parks, museums, and recreational facilities guarantee a worthwhile vacation. Not forgetting ‘The Beatles Story’ which takes visitors on an immersive journey through the lives, times, culture and music of the world’s greatest band – The Beatles.
To kick your culinary adventure into gear, start with a great selection of dishes from the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar and Grill on Chapel Street to a concentration of restaurants, bars, and clubs nestled around the water which promise a unique vacation experience.
18th and 20th centuries’ English paintings, Italian, and French collection, archaeological material, and photos can be found in the many museums in the city.
You could probably grab yourself a matchday ticket to see Liverpool’s match at the celebrated Anfield stadium and hear exciting chants of football fans.
The Liverpool International Music Festival and Liverpool Music Week is also an exciting outdoor activity you should never miss.
London
If you are keen on making the best vacation while in the UK, then you should visit London, the United Kingdom’s capital.
Adjudged 2019 World Best Travel Destination and the home to the finest museums and historical galleries in the world, this metropolitan and exciting city is truly the perfect location for a relaxing vacation and a memorable sightseeing adventure.
Take a boat ride on the Thames or a tour of the Tower Bridge which is one of London’s most popular landmark or many of its famous attractions including the Buckingham Palace, London Eye, Science Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, British Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, Big Ben and the National History Museum.
The red double-decker bus gives tourists the opportunity to see some of the most recognizable sights in the world from its top deck.
An ideal place to relax is the Royal Park in the heart of the city or St James and Hyde Park where you can take a walk and explore.
You can also engage in outdoor activities outdoor swimming pools or visit the cinema. The Coca-Cola London Eye, the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel, is also available for you to observe the beautiful city from the sky.
London’s restaurants and numerous nightclubs offer excellent services and the best of English cuisine surrounded by fascinating music to keep your night full of fun, and your days even more superb. London is indeed one of the places to visit in the UK.
Edinburgh
We sometimes go on vacation to experience the food and unforgettable entertainment of other cultures. If you fall within this category, then Edinburgh is a must-visit place for you. The city is home to more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other part of the UK outside London, so if you’re in the mood for an award-winning dinner, Edinburgh is the place to be.
Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, lives and breathes history – and we know you are itching to uncover its many secrets from the past.
Some of the recommended places to visit in the Scottish capital is the Edinburgh Castle which resides on Castle Rock built in the 12th century, not the Lannister’s Casterly Rock in the Game of Thrones Television series but yes it does give you an imagination of a rich history that dates back to 7th century AD.
Breathtaking buildings like the ultra-modern Scottish Parliament, Royal Mile, the beautiful Old Town- a UNESCO World Heritage site, Scotland’s National Library or the Alnwick Castle which inspired some of the Hogwarts scenes in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter.
Edinburgh is a city with an exceptional nightlife. It’s also a destination perfect for festival lovers. The city has over 10 major festivals happening every year, drawing people from all walks of life.
If you are a blues and jazz fan, join the international Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival which attracts names from all over the world.
We have put together a comprehensive guide on how to effectively save money to visit these wonderful places. Check the article out here.
Have Your Say!
The above is our list of top places to visit in the UK. Which city among those we’ve compiled would you love to visit, and why? Let us know by way of commenting below.