Our experts provide a guide to the 15 Great places and cities to visit in the UK for couples, kids, family vacations and 15 of the best destinations.
Comprised of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, England has long been a favorite European tourist destination for its beautiful scenery, historic cities, world-class museums, and exceptional theaters.
From medieval castles to stately mansions to the stunning landscapes of the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands, there are many places in England.
1. LONDON
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London is a fascinating city filled with museums and art galleries, beautiful green parks, fantastic shops and restaurants, a vibrant theater and, of course, a history full of royalty. London is a true city that has it all.
England's capital is a city steeped in history, from museums and palaces to historic buildings like Westminster Abbey, the last refuge for many of America's best, from writers to politicians to royalty. London has some of the most famous museums in the world, the British Museum, the Natural History Museum and the Tate Gallery, all with free admission. Changing the guard at Buckingham Palace is an experience not to be missed, and perhaps a few minutes spent at Big Ben, the most famous clock in the world.
Some of the best performances in the world can be found in London, with its vibrant theater scene. There are so many concerts that begin with pairing services at St. Paul's Cathedral, a church famous for Diana Spencer's wedding to Prince Charles, as well as being an excellent example of Christopher Wren architecture. Travelers interested in other royal wives can visit the Tower of London, where Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII, was beheaded. Another London has to take a double-decker bus that crosses Tower Bridge across the River Thames.
Shoppers can enjoy Oxford Street with Harrods and Knights Bridge, one of the most famous department stores in the world. When it's time to relax, have a pint in a traditional English pub and decide what ethnic dishes you'll be eating that evening.
2. Scottish Highlands
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The Scottish Highlands are the rugged regions of the north and north-west of Scotland. This is Scotland that has emerged as a fantasy of tartans, kilts, locks and brave hearts. The area is very sparsely populated, many mountain ranges dominate the area and include Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.
The Highlands are home to many impressive castles, including Dun robin Castle and Eileen Donna Castle, a true postcard grown-up located on the small island of Loch Dutch. Accessible only by crossing a stone bridge, this place has been remodeled several times to make it an "ideal" castle and is well worth a visit with interesting rooms and exhibitions. Scotland's most famous loch, Loch Ness, is also found in the Highlands. Known as the home of the Loch Ness Monster, which is about a mile wide in most places, this monster is likely a mythical creature, living in the loch and sometimes encountered by locals and passersby.
3. Stonehenge
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Stonehenge, one of the most famous places in the world, consists of earthworks surrounding a large stone circular environment in southwest England. It is also home to some of Britain's most important Bronze Age and Neolithic discoveries and structures, with around 200 pre-determined monuments.
Stonehenge was built in three stages. The first stage, built around 3100 BC. C. was originally Henge. It consisted of a circular ditch, a dirt bank, and an Aubrey hole. Aubrey's hole is a circular hole in a layer of chalk on Earth about a meter wide. Experts believe that the well was used for religious ceremonies or burials. This site was abandoned shortly after the completion of this first phase and has not been used for more than 1000 years.
Archaeologists see Stonehenge's second construction phase as the most dramatic. Construction began around 2150 BC. C. The builders carried 82 blue stones (4 tons in weight) to the site. It is believed that the transport of these stones included the use of rollers on land and rafts on the river, if necessary. This route reached 370 km (240 miles). Upon installation, this stone formed an incomplete double circle in the center of the site.
The third phase of construction began around 2000 BC. C. It involves bringing a very large stone, the Sarsen stone, to the site about 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Stonehenge. The largest of these stones weighs almost 50 tons and is most likely moved by sleds and ropes. Archaeologists estimate that 500 people to pull the sled required 100 men to pull the sled and 100 to place rollers under the sled.
The builders placed stones in the outer circle supported by the lintel. There are 5 triretons inside the circle. The triliton consists of two large, upright stones that support horizontal stones at the top. These five groups were arranged in a horseshoe shape that can still be seen today.
With no record explaining why it was made, Stonehenge is a mystery. Some people feel that it is a place of healing, others believe that it is a burial place. Some believe that it is the solar calendar, others believe that it is a sacred ritual area.
4. Edinburgh
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Visitors to Edinburgh should be prepared to experience history, from the cobbled streets to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the capital of Scotland. Edinburgh is steeped in history beginning with the Old Town and the New Town, home to over 4,500 historic buildings and historic sites.
Situated on top of a hill overlooking the city, Edinburgh Castle represents the old town and its rich history. The Old Town is home to the Royal Mile which connects Edinburgh's most famous street, Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood House Palace. Walking the Royal Mile is where many begin their visit to Edinburgh. After this walk, travelers will want to visit the Grass market, a medieval market that once had public executions. The White Hart Inn, once frequented by Robert Burns, is still open today.
Newtown is not new, dating back to the 18th century and is best known for its neoclassical architecture. Newtown is where the city's upper class lived. From Mary Queen of Scots to Sean Connery, there is a Scottish National Portrait Gallery with everyone's faces.
Every year in August, more than 200,000 people gather in the city for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, an event featuring the best military bands in the world. The city also hosts many other cultural events, including the Edinburgh International Festival, an exclusive summer festival. There is a traditional arts festival, the Leith Festival, and the world's largest arts festival, the Fringe Festival.
5. York
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York is a castle town with a rich heritage located at the junction of the Forth and Woods rivers. The spaces of this ancient city are full of breathtaking views. York is 2 hours by train from London.
Exciting sights compete for visitors' attention as visitors stroll through the cobbled streets of the city. This massive stone cathedral is filled with incredible works of art. Thanks to "Explorer's Basket" and other youth activities in the cathedral, the kids won't get bored.
One of the most exclusive services in York is the JORVIK Viking Center. The reproduction of this Viking city captures sights, sounds and even smells that existed a thousand years ago. Built by William the Conqueror and rebuilt by Henry III in the 13th century, the medieval Clifford Tower is a great place to enjoy panoramic views of the city.
The Yorkshire Museum has an impressive collection of archeology and geology. A faithful reproduction of the Victorian streets is one of the highlights of the Castle Museum. The Railroad Museum is a free attraction that explores 300 years of railroad history, including interactive exhibits that capture the attention of young and old alike.
6. Cornwall
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Cornwall is a contrasting study. Charming and quaint, yet rugged and secluded. Situated in the westernmost part of England, Cornwall is a peninsula with rocky cliffs overlooking the sea to the north and golden sandy beaches loved by tourists from the south.
Pirates and smugglers once called Cornwall their home. Apart from its borders with Devonshire, Cornish beaches, surrounded by water, were perfect for these activities and, finally, Gilbert and Sullivan's operettas, "The Pirates of Penzance", idealized these activities.
Cornwall also has a fairy tale quality to it. The fairy tale 'Jack and the Beanstalk' takes place here. The legendary King Arthur of Camelot is said to have been born at Tintagel Castle. Pixies or fairies are still popular with the Cornish people today.
St. was once a sleepy fishing village north of Penzance. Ives is known today as a popular vacation destination and an artist's paradise. S t. Ives offers good day trips in Penzance for visitors with a critical time. The city is lined with narrow cobbled streets with artist studios.
Mont Saint Michel's Cornish St Michael's Mount in Normandy sits on a tidal island 400 meters offshore. That said, visitors to this landmark should schedule their visit carefully as the causeway to the island is only open from tide to low tide. The castle would have been a monastery a thousand years ago.
7. Chester
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Not far from the Welsh border, the town of Chester sits on the River Dee in Cheshire, England. This city is over 2000 years old. That being said, there is a lot of history, culture, and architecture in different eras. Renaissance architecture in black and white from the 19th century can be found throughout the city.
The Roman and medieval walls that surround the city are a great tourist attraction. As their defenses became unnecessary, they became raised sidewalks around the city. It takes about an hour to go the entire two-mile loop, but most visitors will admire it by stopping along the way.
Chester Rows is a promenade with a unique structure that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. These covered walkways, dating back to the 13th century, lead to commercial real estate on two different levels. The sidewalk passes in front of the shops and restaurants on the ground floor and provides access to the facilities at street level via stairs.
River cruises are a popular way to enjoy the city's unique atmosphere and incredible views. You can also explore the ancient city on a walking tour. The past stories of the city provide a vast source of information for a ghost tour.
Chester is the perfect place to find markets, crafts, and colorful cafes and pubs. This area comes alive at Christmas. The festive atmosphere and décor look like something out of a postcard. The award-winning Cheshire Zoo is a fun destination for visitors of all ages. There are more than 11,000 animals. Chester Racecourse is the ideal place to experience the thrill of horse racing.
Cheshire Cathedral has plenty of architecture and art to admire, including wood carvings, cloisters, Gothic columns, and stained glass windows. The Cheshire Peak District will impress outdoor enthusiasts. The region's Gritstone Trail is an impressive trail divided into three stages where visitors can take in memorable views of the Badlands, Peaks, and Outcrops.
8. Snowdonia
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Snowdonia is a wonderful national park. There is no other way to describe the breathtaking 360-degree views of the mountains, valleys, and coastline. On clear days, visitors can see Ireland too. Snowdonia located along the coast of Wales Land and is home to Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and England, and the largest lake in Wales. It is the third largest national park in the UK.
National parks are where dreams come true for hikers and mountain bikers, but even couches can find trails suitable for them. Climbing Snowdon will be a challenge for most hikers, but people wearing normal sneakers can comfortably hike other trails. Snowdonia offers narrow gauge railways for those who want to enjoy great views in comfort.
Approximately 26,000 people live within a picturesque village park that offers local food, accommodation and crafts. The village of Llanberis is famous for the slate which today houses the National Slate Museum, and the National Center for Welsh Music is located in Dongellau. Travelers who put surnames on their bucket list will not be disappointed, as there are several notable castles in Snowdonia, such as Conway Castle, built by Edward I, and Penlin Castle, built by the wealthy Lord Penlin in the 19th century.
9. Lake District
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Located in the North West of England from the county of Cumbria, the Lake District is the second largest national park in the United Kingdom. The main attractions are the lakes, mountains and hills sculpted by glacial erosion, which provide dramatic and inspiring landscapes. It is the UK's leading destination for hiking and mountaineering. One of the most popular places in the UK, the park is visited by some 14 million tourists each year.
10. Cambridge
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Cambridge is a charming English city located on the River Cam, north of London. Home to the University of Cambridge, one of the best universities in the world, it has all the cultural and entertainment options you would expect from a university city.
Cambridge bills itself as "a city for all seasons." Even on the coldest days of winter, there is no shortage of things to do, and when warmer weather begins, the options seem limitless.
King's College Chapel, located along the River Cam, is considered a fine example of vertical Gothic architecture and is one of the most visited attractions in the city. The Cambridge University Botanical Garden has 8,000 species of plants and flowers, winter gardens, mature trees and glass windows. Cambridge always attracted visitors for more than 150 years.
Cambridge's lush surroundings provide the perfect setting for a variety of outdoor activities. In addition to its perennial popularity, like walking and biking, the River Cam is a great place to try rowing, piloting a flat-bottomed boat with poles.
11. Norwich
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Okay, I feel guilty saying this. But my first trip to Norwich was this year. Believe me when I say it is a mistake that I have neglected for far too long!
I mean, they have some of the best chefs in and out of town, like Charlie Hodson's delicious caterpillar (so delicious) at Fur and Feather.
Oh and honestly, don't forget the amazing Grosvenor Fish Bar, one of the best places to eat fish and chips in the whole of the UK. After giving your opinion on the delicious food, take a walk around the city and explore the historic center.
Explore the iconic Norwich Cathedral, stroll down Elm Hill, and visit the city's amazing castles.
12. Roman-Era Bath
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Although it is one of the smallest cities in England, Bath is more than complementing its small size with many things to see and do. Named after the famous Roman baths, this beautiful city has drawn visitors to the healing waters for over 2000 years.
This water that gushes out from three hot springs is known to be made up of 43 different minerals, so its healing properties rise about 3048m at a rate of 275,000 gallons per day and then continuously pour out at 46.5 degrees Celsius. While bathing in the original Roman baths is impossible, several nearby spas (notably the large Thermae Bath Spa) offer the opportunity to enjoy the city's famous waters.
In addition to its ancient history, Baths is also known for its beautiful Georgian architecture. The best examples can be seen along the magnificent curving Royal Crescent and the magnificent row houses. One of them, Royal Crescent number 1, is now a museum offering a fascinating insight into life in the Georgian era.
13. Wonderful Windsor
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Conveniently located just a short train ride from West London, the historic city of Windsor offers plenty of fun for tourists. There are not only many medieval half-timbered buildings along the beautiful background of the Thames side and picturesque cobbled alleys, but also the majestic Windsor Castle, the most famous of the English royal castles.
This magnificent old castle has been used as a summer residence for British royalty for over a millennium. Begun in 1078 by William the Conqueror, it is the largest inhabited castle in the world. Highlights include the ornate State Apartments (each decorated with gorgeous painted and carved ceilings) with the Queen's Gallery and dining room, and the St.
Once you have filled this historic building, take time to explore the large and beautiful grounds of the nearly 10 km long castle. Enjoy truly memorable panoramic views of Windsor and its castle.
Another local attraction worth checking out is Legoland Windsor, a fun family-friendly complex set in a 150-acre park, a short bus ride from the city center. The Royal Ascot, the UK's most famous racecourse, is also worth seeing (schedule your trip to coincide with the Royal Meeting held every June).
14.Canterbury
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Visit Kent's historic Canterbury and you'll soon see why this beautiful city continues to attract British visitors. An hour by train from central London (or just minutes from the Eurotunnel), Canterbury has attracted the attention of pilgrims for more than 1,500 years since St. Augustine began converting Anglo-Saxon pagans to Christianity in 597 AD. Dragged.
The most famous attraction in the city is Canterbury Cathedral, home of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this magnificent cathedral offers much to see, from intricately carved exterior stonework to magnificent interiors. The highlight of them is the beautiful choir with statues of six British kings. Furthermore, the exquisite miraculous spear, built in the 12th century, depicts the scene from the life of the murdered Archbishop Thomas Beckett.
Then, spend some time wandering the pedestrianized area of Old City Canterbury, home to many of the preserved historic half-timbered buildings, especially along Mercer Lane.
Another must-see in Canterbury is the Canterbury Tales, a fascinating look at the life and times of the famous British poet Geoffrey Chaucer, known as "The Father of English Literature." Include the great Canterbury Roman Museum on your itinerary. It was originally built around the unique ruins and mosaics of Roman houses.
15. Northern Ireland's Giant's Causeway
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Sometimes it is too easy to forget that the UK contains a small part of Ireland. Comprised of the northeast corner of the "Emerald Isle", Northern Ireland can easily be included in a trip to any country and is worth taking the time to explore. The best known of Northern Ireland's attractions is the magnificent Giant's Causeway.
Just a short drive from the capital city of Belfast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of quirky stratified basalt columns that jut out from the sea and shore like giant steps. In total, you can see and climb around 4,000 of these polygon-shaped stairs. Formed 60 million years ago during periods of intense volcanic activity, it is a truly impressive sight, and as a result, it is easy to see how local legends about giants arose so easily.
A modern visitor center has opened here and offers interesting details about the reality and myth behind this wish-list attraction. Guided tours can be booked and audio guides are available at the entrance.
Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireleand
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