Every year, millions of visitors embark on journeys to explore the Popular Cities in the UK, traversing every corner of our picturesque island. Whether you’re a British native or an international traveler, the UK offers an abundance of attractions and experiences to delight in. If you find yourself seeking ideas or inspiration to kickstart your tour, peruse our curated list of the most popular cities in the UK.
LONDON
London, renowned as the residence of the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, The British Museum, and numerous other British icons, stands as a global epicenter of theatre, art, music, literature, and culture. This vibrant metropolis also boasts a tapestry of colorful markets, exceptional shopping districts, expansive green spaces, and a rich cosmopolitan atmosphere.
With a population of 7.5 million residents, equating to 12.5 percent of the UK’s total population, London thrives as a diverse and dynamic city. Beyond its native inhabitants, London is a welcoming haven for more than 1.5 million individuals from around the world, collectively conversing in 300 different languages. In addition to its cosmopolitan residents, London opens its doors to over 25 million visitors annually, facilitated through its five airports, national rail stations, and the Eurostar terminal, serving as the gateway to the continent. London is number 1 on our list with the most popular cities in the UK.
EDINBURGH
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland and the seat of its Parliament, seamlessly blends youthful and contemporary vibrancy as a renowned university city and national capital with its historic and dramatic setting. Here, visitors encounter the world’s largest performing arts festival, a millennium-old castle, and the imposing Arthur’s Seat mountain, all nestled within the city’s bounds. Edinburgh’s annual New Year’s celebration, known as Hogmanay, is a four-day extravaganza that transcends typical street parties.
With a population of approximately half a million residents, including over 62,000 university students, Edinburgh remains a dynamic hub of activity and one of the most popular cities in the UK. The city warmly welcomes more than 13 million visitors each year. During the festival-packed month of August, Edinburgh experiences a population surge of over one million, briefly securing its place as the UK’s second-largest city.
Festival Edinburgh boasts a calendar of events spanning from late June to early September, encompassing film, literature, visual arts, music, television, jazz, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and the renowned Edinburgh International Festival. Yet, the standout spectacle is the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe—a free-for-all extravaganza of drama, music, comedy, and street theater that takes over the entire city throughout August.
When winter arrives, the people of Edinburgh are ready to celebrate once more, hosting the world’s grandest New Year’s celebration, Hogmanay. This festive occasion includes torchlight parades, fire festival events, concerts, funfairs, and winter swims, spanning four exhilarating days.
MANCHESTER
Manchester, often hailed as the first modern city, played a pivotal role in the 18th century as the world’s cotton manufacturing epicenter and a key catalyst of the industrial revolution. Located 30 miles from Liverpool, this northwestern city was cultivated by enterprising industrialists and tycoons who endowed it with an array of museums, galleries, theatres, libraries, and remarkable civic architecture. In 1996, a devastating IRA bomb incident prompted city centre regeneration efforts, ushering in a dramatic 21st-century cityscape.
Presently, Manchester boasts some of the most captivating modern architecture in Britain, extending to the nearby Salford Quays area. Notable highlights include Bridgewater Hall, the revered home of Manchester’s Hallé Orchestra; Urbis, an exhibition centre adorned with a glass curtain wall; and the Imperial War Museum, an architectural marvel designed by Daniel Libeskind.
Renowned as a ‘Music City,’ Manchester has been a breeding ground for indie and pop music scenes. The city proudly claims the origins of artists and bands such as Elkie Brooks, Take That, Freddie and the Dreamers, Herman’s Hermits, The Hollies, Oasis, Simply Red, The Smiths, The Stone Roses, Morrissey, and many others.
Today, a thriving student population ensures Manchester’s club scene remains as vibrant as ever. Positioned as a gateway to England’s Lake District, Manchester, another one of the most popular cities in the UK, offers an excellent starting point for a dual vacation experience, seamlessly combining outdoor adventures with urban nightlife.
BIRMINGHAM
Birmingham, a city forged by a blend of entrepreneurial audacity and engineering expertise, served as the manufacturing powerhouse of Britain during the 19th and much of the 20th century is no doubt one of the most popular cities in the UK. It was here that James Watt first commercially produced his groundbreaking steam engine.
Birmingham also takes pride in being the birthplace of the transatlantic cable and the iconic Orient Express, both of which were products of local ingenuity. Moreover, this city was the epicentre of the British motor industry.
Birmingham boasts a delectable culinary legacy as well. George Cadbury established his chocolate empire here, and his Bourneville Estate stands as an early example of a planned community. In recent times, Birmingham has become synonymous with the Anglo-Punjabi specialty of Balti cuisine.
As the UK’s second-largest city, with a population exceeding one million, Birmingham pulsates with vibrant multi-ethnic diversity, a thriving arts and music scene, and some of England’s finest shopping establishments. Among its standout landmarks is the ultra-modern Selfridges store, the company’s inaugural location outside of London, characterised by its otherworldly architecture.
Birmingham’s musical heritage resonates with a Brummie accent, known for being the birthplace of Heavy Metal, with bands like Judas Priest and Black Sabbath originating here. Ozzie Osbourne, a native son, further underscores this musical legacy. The city also incubated the careers of artists in various genres, including Duran Duran, ELO, and UB40.
Birmingham’s appeal is heightened by its exceptional shopping opportunities and the massive NEC conference centre. However, it is worth noting that the city’s accommodation capacity often falls short of the high demand, particularly during special events. Therefore, planning and booking in advance are advisable for visitors seeking accommodations in the area.
GLASGOW
Glasgow is another one of the most popular cities in the UK! Scotland’s largest city and the third-largest in the United Kingdom, once played second fiddle to Edinburgh in the eyes of tourists and visitors. Its reputation as a gritty, crime-ridden, and hard-drinking city deterred many. However, since the mid-1980s, the people of Glasgow have worked tirelessly to shed that image.
And they’ve succeeded.
In 1995, Glasgow earned the title of European Capital of Culture. Unlike Edinburgh’s heritage-driven culture, this recognition was for its contemporary and dynamic vibe. The city’s allure has only continued to grow. In 2008, Lonely Planet ranked Glasgow among the top 10 cities for tourists, and the Mercer report, a quality of life survey, placed Glasgow in the top 50 safest cities globally—a ranking more than 30 places higher than London.
Today, Billy Connolly’s hometown stands as a trendy destination celebrated for its contemporary art, jazz, clubs, comedy, design, and fashion, encompassing both chic styles and gritty street fashion. It also serves as the gateway to the Western Highlands, with Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park a mere half-hour’s drive away.
LIVERPOOL
Popular cities in the UK? When visitors think of Liverpool, it’s often the Beatles that first come to mind, and rightfully so. The city offers plenty of Beatles-related attractions, including a visit to the iconic Cavern Club.
In 2008, Liverpool earned the prestigious title of European Capital of Culture, bringing new life and vibrancy to this northwestern English city, as the award often does. The Albert Docks area in Liverpool was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its integral role in Britain’s maritime history.
Visitors can delve into Liverpool’s contributions to the history of the slave trade (commemorated at the world’s sole International Slavery Museum), its significance in the waves of emigration to the Americas and Australia, and its influence on trade and culture throughout the British Empire. The spotlight on the docks’ historical significance has also ushered in trendy clubs, hotels, shopping destinations, dining establishments, and even a Liverpool branch of the renowned Tate Gallery in the immediate vicinity.
Liverpool has experienced its share of ups and downs over the years, but the recent resurgence of interest in this historically rich city has given rise to a host of new and stylish hotels, catering to the modern traveler.
BRISTOL
Bristol, situated on the borders of Somerset and Gloucestershire, is a charming and historically rich city known for its creativity and innovation. It serves as an excellent hub for exploring nearby attractions such as Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick Castle, Bath, Stonehenge, Cheddar Gorge, and Longleat, all within easy reach.
Once a prominent port city, Bristol played a significant role in the triangular trade during the 17th and 18th centuries, facilitating the exchange of manufactured goods to Africa in return for enslaved people who were subsequently transported forcibly to the Americas. Abolitionist Thomas Clarkson conducted undercover work at The Seven Stars Pub on Thomas Lane in the 18th century, gathering critical information about the slave trade that his friend William Wilberforce used to advocate for the Act for the Abolition of Slavery. Remarkably, this historic pub, which has been open every day since 1760 and dates back to the 1600s, still welcomes patrons with a pint of real ale.
Bristol’s legacy of innovation extends to its notable figures, from the pioneering Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who designed Britain’s first long-distance railway and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, to the Bristol Old Vic and its drama school, which has produced graduates who have graced international stages and screens. Bristol is the birthplace of Cary Grant, and renowned actors like Patrick Stewart, Jeremy Irons, Greta Scacchi, Miranda Richardson, Helen Baxendale, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Gene Wilder honed their craft here.
The city also claims Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep as its own creations, originating from the acclaimed Aardman Animation studios in Bristol. Additionally, the enigmatic graffiti artist Banksy, another Bristol native, has left his indelible mark on the city.
OXFORD
Oxford University, established in the 11th century, holds the distinction of being England’s oldest university and serves as a primary draw for visitors to this charming city, located 60 miles northwest of London and on the cusp of the Cotswolds.
Oxford boasts the title of housing England’s oldest public museum, The Ashmolean, which has undergone recent refurbishments, doubling its exhibition space. The city also offers the allure of shopping within a lively covered market, the discovery of almost hidden pubs with historical significance, including one that Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton frequented while concealing their affair from their respective spouses, and the exploration of a haunted castle.
Of course, Oxford’s most iconic features are its venerable colleges. Visitors are granted the privilege of strolling through the captivating, historic grounds and chapels of many of these colleges. While some have restricted access or are only open during specific times of the day, others can be explored through official guided tours. The Oxford Tourist Information Centre organises Official Guided Walking Tours that allow you to admire the college sights, including several renowned landmarks and film locations, some of which were featured in the Harry Potter films.
Oxford proves to be an excellent choice for a day trip from London, whether or not you have a car at your disposal. It also serves as a convenient base for venturing into the picturesque Cotswolds, visiting the nearby Blenheim Palace in Woodstock (just a ten-minute bus ride away), or indulging in retail therapy at Bicester Village, one of the UK’s premier designer discount centres.
CAMBRIDGE
Cambridge, much like its historical counterpart Oxford, traces its roots to an association of scholars who congregated in one location and founded the renowned colleges. According to tradition, Cambridge, Britain’s second-oldest university, was established in 1209 when a group of scholars relocated from Oxford due to a dispute with the local townsfolk.
While smaller and less urban than Oxford, Cambridge is a vibrant city teeming with captivating museums, galleries, theatres, restaurants, and pubs.
The colleges themselves, renowned for producing more Nobel Prize winners than any other university globally, are architectural marvels spanning the Medieval, Tudor, and Jacobean eras. Among the standout college attractions open to visitors, King’s College Chapel, with its soaring fan-vaulted ceiling, stands as an absolute must-see.
From April to September, Cambridge can become crowded with tourists arriving on buses, often staying for just a few hours before departing. However, frequent train services from London offer relatively short journey times, making it a missed opportunity not to linger a bit longer and explore the charming gardens along the Backs, where Cambridge colleges border the River Cam. Due to the crowds, many colleges have introduced entry fees for access to their grounds and have limited their opening hours.
Punting on the Cam
Punting, the traditional flatboats propelled with poles along the Cam and Grantchester rivers, is a quintessential Cambridge activity. The punter stands and skillfully pushes the pole into the riverbed. It’s not as effortless as it appears, and many beginners have experienced the challenge firsthand, sometimes losing a pole or holding onto it as the punt drifts away. Today, visitors can opt for a chauffeured punt, often steered by a student, for a guided cruise along the Backs. It’s a leisurely and enjoyable experience.
Cambridge does have one limitation, which is the shortage of high-quality hotels near the city centre. However, one of the most intriguing options is The Moller Centre, situated within Churchill College. Primarily a conference centre, it offers business-class luxury accommodation at budget-friendly rates in a distinctive architectural setting that anyone can enjoy.
CARDIFF
Cardiff, the capital and largest city of Wales, has undergone a remarkable resurgence in recent years. In just over a decade, its tourist numbers have surged by more than 50 percent. The opening of the Millennium Stadium in 1999, which serves as the home of the Welsh national rugby union and football teams, marked a pivotal moment for the city. In 1999, Cardiff welcomed approximately 9 million foreign visitors, a number that had risen to over 14.6 million by 2009, with French and Irish rugby fans leading the way.
Cardiff’s revitalisation has included the redevelopment of the waterfront along Cardiff Bay. The Senedd, the home of the Welsh National Assembly designed by British architect Richard Rogers, opened there in 2006.
Adjacent to it, the Wales Millennium Centre, unveiled in 2004, serves as a performance venue for a wide range of arts, including theatre, musicals, opera, ballet, contemporary dance, hip hop, comedy, art, and art workshops. It houses two theatres and hosts seven resident companies, including the Welsh National Opera. Daily free performances take place in the centre’s foyer, and visitors to its bars and restaurants can savour views of Cardiff Bay. The building itself is a striking landmark, featuring Welsh slate, bronze-coloured steel, wood, and glass, mirroring the Welsh landscape.
One of the most notable features of the building, designed by Jonathan Adam, is the lines of poetry composed of windows that adorn its façade. Crafted by Welsh writer Gwyneth Lewis, the Welsh and English verses are not translations of each other but rather two distinct short poems that complement each other. The Welsh poem, ‘Creu Gwir Fel Gwydr O Ffwrnais Awen’ (Creating truth like glass from the furnace of inspiration), stands alongside the English poem, ‘In these stones, horizons sing.’ At night, the building’s interior light illuminates these poetic lines.
Despite Cardiff’s modern transformation, not everything is brand new. Cardiff Castle, which began as a Roman garrison nearly 2000 years ago, has witnessed various incarnations over the centuries, from a Norman castle keep to a Victorian fantasy castle under the Marquess of Bute. Today, it belongs to the city of Cardiff and hosts festivals and events in its parkland throughout the year.
Cardiff’s resurgence in the post-millennial era, coupled with its status as the seat of the newly devolved Welsh government, has led to a robust selection of hotels and accommodations.
BRIGHTON
Brighton, often referred to as “London’s beach,” is a vibrant, colourful, and surprisingly urban seaside resort located just 60 miles from the capital. This lively destination offers year-round opportunities for day trips and short breaks, extending far beyond its beautiful seafront.
Brighton boasts a wide range of attractions, including shopping districts, diverse dining options, the fantastical Royal Pavilion, an impressive aquarium, a thriving nightlife scene, and Regency-style houses that stretch across its streets. The city’s iconic pier is renowned as one of the most picturesque in Britain. What sets Brighton apart is its welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, making it an excellent destination for a visit or an extended stay.
For those who appreciate the vibrancy of city life, Brighton is a perfect match. Millions of visitors flock to Brighton each year, with around 8 million tourists overall, including approximately 6.5 million day-trippers. Brighton Pier alone draws 4.5 million visitors annually. The city consistently ranks among the top 20 destinations for overseas tourists and is one of the top 10 visitor destinations in the UK. Moreover, it is celebrated as one of the country’s primary LGBTQ destinations, boasting a sizeable resident gay population.
While Brighton may be considered “London’s beach,” it’s essential to note that swimming in the sea may not always be feasible due to the typically cold water and shingle beach. Nevertheless, the city caters to water sports enthusiasts, including surfers, paddle boarders, and windsurfers. Enjoying a leisurely stroll along the seaside or relaxing on the beach is just one facet of Brighton’s allure.
Visitors come to Brighton to explore its charming shopping areas like the Lanes and North Laine, marvel at the Royal Pavilion’s architectural marvel, savour delicious fish and chips, and immerse themselves in the lively festival and club scene. Easily accessible by train from London, a day trip to Brighton is a must-visit experience you won’t want to miss.
NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE AND GATESHEAD
Newcastle-upon-Tyne, often referred to simply as Newcastle, is a city with a rich history that dates back to its origins as a major Roman fort guarding the eastern end of Hadrian’s Wall. The remnants of this heritage are still visible at the Arbeia Roman Fort & Museum, which includes a reconstruction of the original fort and a collection of archaeological finds from the site.
During the early Middle Ages, after the Romans departed, the Venerable Bede, an Anglo-Saxon monk, resided in Jarrow, located just south of Newcastle along the Tyne River. Bede authored his historical works about early Britain while at Jarrow, and today, Jarrow Hall (formerly Bede’s World) is a museum and potential World Heritage Site candidate situated near the remains of Bede’s Anglo-Saxon monastery.
Newcastle serves as an excellent hub for exploring the northeastern region of England. However, despite its rich history, the locals are firmly focused on the present and future.
The nightlife in Newcastle is renowned, having produced numerous bands, performance artists, and memorable entertainment over the years. In the 1960s, iconic musician Jimi Hendrix lived and performed as a busker in Newcastle, where he was discovered and managed by Chas Chandler, a member of the Newcastle band The Animals. Dire Straits also originated in Newcastle, and the renowned musician Sting hails from the city. With its vibrant university scene, students contribute significantly to keeping the Newcastle music scene alive and thriving.
Since the turn of the millennium, the Newcastle/Gateshead Quays have undergone a dramatic transformation into a futuristic and artistic landscape. The Newcastle/Gateshead Millennium Bridge is a remarkable pedestrian drawbridge that tilts its bottom deck up to meet the support arch, resembling the opening and closing of an eyelid.
The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, situated on the quayside, stands as one of the world’s largest exhibition spaces for contemporary art. This innovative venue was once an expansive and abandoned flour and animal feed mill before its conversion into a cutting-edge visual arts exhibition center. Nearby, the Sage Gateshead is a modern music performance and learning facility, offering a diverse range of music genres, including rock, pop, classical, acoustic, indie, country, folk, electronic, dance, and world music. The Northern Sinfonia, a renowned musical ensemble, calls the Sage its home.
The native dialect of Newcastle, known as Geordie, is distinctive and one of the oldest in England. Familiar voices with this unmistakable accent include actor Jimmy Nail and Girls Aloud singer Cheryl Cole.
LEEDS
Leeds, often referred to as ‘The Knightsbridge of the North,’ has earned this moniker due to its rich history in wool, textile, and clothing manufacturing, making it a prominent retail and fashion centre in the UK. The city boasts glamorous shops nestled within splendid Victorian arcades, and it’s notably where Harvey Nichols established its first store outside of London. The iconic British brand Marks & Spencer also traces its origins to a humble market stall in Leeds Kirkgate Market.
In the 21st century, Leeds is a city well-connected and technologically advanced. It hosts over a third of all UK Internet traffic, and it boasts more ISDN lines per capita than any other major city globally. The city is developing an Internet Quarter, characterised by call centres and server farms, reflecting its commitment to innovation and connectivity.
Leeds is the UK’s third-largest city and holds the title of the fastest-growing city in the country. With a population of over three-quarters of a million residents, including over 100,000 university and college students, the city thrives with a vibrant music scene. Leeds is home to around 1,500 active bands, with notable success stories like the Kaiser Chiefs and Corinne Bailey Rae hailing from this Yorkshire city.
Leeds is ideally situated for exploring the stunning Yorkshire countryside, offering opportunities for nightlife and retail therapy. Additionally, it’s a short journey, less than half an hour by train or car, to the medieval walled city of York.
YORK
York, a charming city in northern England, holds a rich and storied history spanning over two millennia. As a city with Roman, Viking, and Medieval Anglo-Saxon roots, its relics, monuments, and architectural treasures are seamlessly integrated into modern life.
Exploring York on foot is a delightful experience, with its streets adorned by countless half-timbered buildings and other architectural marvels. The city’s markets, nestled in squares and stalls that have stood for centuries, offer a diverse array of goods, from fresh produce and stylish hats to designer kitchenware and DVDs. Along York’s winding lanes, boutique shops cater to avid fashion enthusiasts, with some of these shopping streets boasting a history that dates back over 900 years, chronicled in the Domesday Book.
York Minster, an awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral, stands as a city landmark, commanding attention from every corner within the city walls. This monumental structure features a stained glass window larger than a tennis court and an intriguing crypt where visitors can explore the Minster’s Roman foundations.
INVERNESS
Inverness, nestled on the banks of the River Ness near the Moray Firth, may initially appear as a tranquil provincial city. However, it holds a distinct significance as the unofficial capital of the Highlands and serves as the gateway to the quintessential essence of Scotland.
Culloden Battlefield
Just a stone’s throw from Inverness, the Culloden battlefield stands as a poignant testament to a pivotal moment in Scottish history. In 1746, clans rallied behind Bonnie Prince Charlie, or Prince Charles Edward Stuart, in the Jacobite cause, culminating in a fateful clash at Culloden where over 1,000 lives were lost. This battle resulted in the harsh ‘pacification’ of the Highlands, the suppression of clan chiefs and tartans, and a concerted effort to eradicate Highland culture. The National Trust of Scotland manages an exceptional visitor centre at the iconic Culloden Battlefield site, where the gripping narrative of this event is detailed. Sir Walter Scott’s novel, “Waverley,” vividly describes the eve of battle and the battle itself.
Loch Ness
A few miles southwest of Inverness, Loch Ness graces the landscape as the final major body of water in the Great Glen, a profound channel connecting lochs and waterways from the North Atlantic to the North Sea. You can arrange coach and Caledonian Canal tours to seek out the elusive Loch Ness monster, Nessie. While spotting Nessie is a delightful quest, Loch Ness itself is a captivating destination. It is also the venue for Rock Ness, a rock festival with a legendary sea monster. Urquhart Castle, situated on the loch’s shores, is renowned as an excellent spot for Nessie watching.
The Whiskey Trail and Beyond
Heading east of Inverness, along the River Spey, leads to prime Scotch whisky tourism territory. Spey side distilleries craft some of the world’s most renowned and cherished whiskies, many of which are open to the public. This region is also celebrated for salmon fishing and shooting holidays.
Inverness serves as a convenient base for exploring the Cairngorms and Cairngorm National Park, a popular skiing destination, and home to Balmoral, the Queen’s Scottish retreat. If your journey takes you to Orkney, departing from Inverness offers the quickest route.
One piece of advice: Inverness can be quite lively on weekend nights. If you plan for an early departure for a cruise or tour, consider booking accommodation in a quieter location away from the city centre.
BATH
Bath, a city that boasts a legacy dating back to the 2,000-year-old Roman Baths and a panorama adorned with Georgian terraces and the elegant Pump Room, is itself designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bath holds a unique place in history, as it was frequented by the likes of Jane Austen, who found solace in its healing waters and vibrant social scene, elements that often weave their way into her literary works. Beyond its rich historical architecture, Bath offers a captivating array of experiences for contemporary travelers. These encompass an array of superb dining establishments, upscale shopping venues, quirky museums, a thriving cultural landscape, and, most notably, a multimillion-pound, state-of-the-art thermal spa.
While Bath is a tad far from London for a comprehensive day trip, it serves as an excellent destination for an overnight getaway, replete with charming accommodation options and dining venues. Notable attractions include:
Bath Abbey: Nestled on a site that has been a centre of Christian worship for 1,200 years, the abbey is a masterpiece of ecclesiastical architecture.
The Jane Austen Center: Explore the life and times of the iconic author and her connection to Bath.
The Roman Baths and Pump Room: These historic sites provided a gathering place for high society in the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can still sample the waters from the ancient spring or partake in a delightful tea experience.
Architectural Marvels: Bath is a living showcase of England’s finest 18th-century architecture, with its pristine, white terraces of houses that have served as backdrops for numerous films. No. 1 Royal Crescent, the inaugural residence constructed on the iconic Royal Crescent, has been transformed into a museum, offering an authentic glimpse into fashionable 18th-century life.
Shopping enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to indulge their passions in Bath’s bustling retail districts, replete with independent boutiques catering to fashion, antiques, jewellery, and more.
NOTTINGHAM
Nottingham, a city steeped in history and legend, beckons visitors to explore its rich heritage and diverse cultural offerings. While the origins of the Robin Hood tales may not be found in Nottingham Castle, which now stands as a 17th-century ducal mansion, the Castle Rock and the subterranean cave system beneath it, a scheduled ancient monument, provide intriguing glimpses into a medieval past.
North of the city, the remnants of Sherwood Forest, spanning 450 acres and home to some of Britain’s oldest oak trees, await exploration.
Nottingham’s role as the potential birthplace of the legendary Robin Hood has inspired numerous literary luminaries. Lord Byron, for instance, inherited his title from an estate in Nottinghamshire, where he is also buried. D.H. Lawrence, hailing from a Nottinghamshire mining family, spent his formative years in the region. Additionally, both J.M. Barrie, the creator of “Peter Pan,” and novelist Graham Greene honed their craft while contributing to the Nottingham Daily Journal.
Pilgrim Country beckons history enthusiasts in search of the Pilgrim Fathers’ legacy. William Brewster, the postmaster of Scrooby in Nottinghamshire, played a pivotal role in leading a group of Separatists to Holland in 1607. Ultimately, these individuals established the Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts in 1620. The Mayflower Trail presents a circular tour through the tranquil villages of Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, and Yorkshire that played a crucial role in the development of the Separatist movement.
For those seeking a more contemporary experience, Nottingham, with its two universities and 370 schools, boasts the third-largest student population in the UK. The city comes alive at night, offering a vibrant nightlife scene. With over 300 bars, clubs, and restaurants, as well as several spacious music and dance venues, Nottingham caters to night owls looking for entertainment.
READING
Reading may seem an unexpected addition to the list of top UK cities, but it holds its own as a vibrant commercial hub, particularly in the IT and insurance sectors. While its historical significance dates back to the Middle Ages, Reading thrives as a contemporary urban centre today.
One of Reading’s key strengths is its proximity to several iconic English destinations, such as Windsor Castle, Eton, and a variety of stately homes scattered across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire, all of which are well worth a visit. The town is also conveniently located near the renowned Henley Regatta and boasts a sizeable university population.
However, what truly sets Reading apart and propels it into the ranks of top UK destinations are its two immensely popular festivals.
The Reading Comedy Festival, held traditionally in the autumn, spans three weeks and features an array of stand-up comedy acts. It attracts British and Irish comedians, their enthusiastic fans, and numerous aspiring talents for open mic events.
The Reading Festival is one of the UK’s largest music festivals, taking place over the August Bank Holiday weekend. This festival boasts a unique twist—it is paired with the Leeds Festival, which occurs simultaneously and features the same lineup. Artists perform at one festival and then rush across the country to appear at the other.
For accommodations in Reading, festival goers may opt for camping, as it is a common choice for attendees. If you seek a more charming and distinctive setting, the picturesque countryside surrounding Reading offers a wide range of scenic options. However, Reading’s status as a vital business centre means it also caters well to business travellers, providing suitable options for their stay.
ABERDEEN
Aberdeen, situated 130 miles northeast of Edinburgh along the North Sea coast, has transformed into something of a modern boomtown. Before the discovery of North Sea oil in the 1970s, this city, which ranks as Scotland’s third-largest, was primarily known as a fishing port. To this day, it remains one of Britain’s major fishing harbours, reaping substantial annual catches from its North Sea trawlers. Additionally, Aberdeen boasts a reputable university with roots dating back to the late 15th century, as evidenced by its university charter.
The influx of the oil industry has led to an upswing in prosperity. Prices for goods and services in Aberdeen can be on par with those in London, and despite its relatively modest population of under 300,000 residents, the city offers a surprising array of high-end designer and boutique shopping options.
One defining feature of Aberdeen is its extensive use of local granite in construction. When the sun shines, the mica in the granite sparkles beautifully. However, it’s worth noting that clear blue skies are a rare occurrence in this part of Scotland, and under overcast conditions, the city’s characteristic greyness can appear quite bleak.
Nonetheless, if you’re interested in exploring industrial powerhouses, Aberdeen could be an ideal stopover on your way to salmon fishing on the Dee River. Often referred to as the “energy capital of Europe,” Aberdeen boasts Europe’s largest and busiest heliport, further cementing its status as a vital hub in the energy sector.
CHESTER
Upon my first visit to Chester, I was struck by the city’s picturesque streets lined with impeccably maintained half-timbered buildings. I couldn’t help but wonder if it was a real place or if I had somehow stumbled into a meticulously designed modern theme park.
Interestingly, I was only partly correct in my assessment. Chester’s renowned “Rows” indeed include Victorian reproductions of older structures, but some of the finest examples are authentic medieval buildings. The Rows consist of continuous galleries, accessible via steps from street level, forming a second tier of shops. The purpose behind their construction remains somewhat of a mystery, but certain galleries, like the Three Arches on Bridge Street, have been serving as shops since the 1200s. They have withstood historical events such as the Black Death in the 13th century and the English Civil War in the 17th century.
The Roman roots of Chester add an even deeper layer to its history. Chester, along with its four ancient streets forming the High Cross district — Eastgate, Northgate, Watergate, and Bridge — predates its medieval Rows by more than a millennium. Founded as a Roman fort in 79 A.D. during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, Chester is among the best-preserved walled cities in England. Some sections of its ramparts date back 2,000 years to the original Roman fortifications. In Roman times, Chester served as a significant hub in the province of Britannia. Recent archaeological excavations, considered the largest in Britain, have uncovered a Roman amphitheater where combat techniques were demonstrated.
Even if you’re not particularly passionate about history, Chester, nestled in the heart of affluent Cheshire, offers a delightful visit. The city boasts an array of independent boutiques, houses several impressive museums and art galleries, and is renowned for its top-notch restaurants, luxury hotels, and spa facilities.