Did you know that the United Kingdom is home to some of the most beautiful and historically rich cities in the world? If you’re looking for a break that will offer you an unforgettable experience, then you’ll want to consider one of these best city breaks in the UK.
From vibrant London to charming Edinburgh, there’s truly something for everyone when it comes to these city breaks. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure today!
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city that is rich in history and culture. This charming city is home to stunning architecture, delicious food, and plenty of things to do and see. If you’re looking for a city break that will allow you to experience all that the UK has to offer, then Edinburgh should be at the top of your list.
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland, Edinburgh offers plenty. From its famous castle to its vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this city.
Here are some of the top attractions and activities that Edinburgh has to offer:
- Explore Edinburgh Castle. This ancient fortress is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland, and for good reason. With its imposing architecture and history dating back centuries, the castle is a must-see for anyone visiting Edinburgh.
- Stroll through Princes Street Gardens. Located in the heart of the city, these beautiful gardens are a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of Edinburgh.
- Visit The Royal Mile. This famous street is home to some of the most historical sites in Edinburgh, including the castle and various churches and museums.
- Take a walk or bike ride through the city. Edinburgh is a great city to explore on foot or by bike. With its narrow streets and hilly terrain, there’s always something new to discover.
- Check out the local nightlife. Edinburgh is well known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a quiet pub crawl or a wild night out, Edinburgh has something for everyone.
Belfast
There are many reasons to take a trip to Belfast when choosing a city break in the UK. Perhaps you want to visit the city’s famous sights, like the Titanic Museum or the Stormont Estate. Or maybe you’d like to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife, with its pubs and clubs. Whatever your reasons, Belfast is a city with something for everyone.
Belfast is also a great place to learn about Northern Ireland’s history. The city has a number of museums and historical sites that tell the story of the region’s past. And if you want to learn more about the current political situation in Northern Ireland, Belfast is the place to be.
Here are some of the city’s most popular attractions:
- The Titanic Museum. This museum is dedicated to the doomed ocean liner that was built in Belfast. It’s one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations/
- The Stormont Estate. This estate is home to the Northern Ireland Assembly and other government buildings. Visitors can take a guided tour of the estate or visit the Parliamentary Museum.
- Belfast City Hall. This imposing building is the centre of local government in Belfast. Visitors can take a free tour of the building or attend one of the regular public events that are held there.
- The Black Taxi Tour. This tour is a great way to learn about the history of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. You’ll travel through some of the most heavily bombed areas of Belfast in a traditional black taxi.
- Queen’s University. This university is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the United Kingdom. Visitors can take a guided tour of the campus or attend a public lecture.
- The Belfast boys. If you’re interested in music, then you won’t want to miss a visit to The Belfast Boys. This popular pub is home to some of the best live music in Belfast. You can listen to bands playing everything from traditional Irish music to rock and roll.
- The Belfast Barge. If you’re looking for a bit of relaxation, then why not take a trip down the Lagan River on the Belfast Barge? This floating pub and restaurant offers amazing views of the city skyline. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a cold drink on a warm day.
Glasgow
Glasgow is a city that is full of life and culture. This vibrant city is home to plenty of interesting attractions, including great museums, delicious restaurants, and lively nightlife.
There are plenty of things to do in Glasgow, whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, want to get active or just want to have some fun.
Here are some of the best experiences in Glasgow:
- Visit one of Glasgow’s many museums and art galleries. The city has world-renowned institutions like the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Gallery of Modern Art, as well as lots of smaller galleries that offer a more intimate experience.
- Take a walk or bike ride through the beautiful botanic gardens. The gardens feature acres of grounds to explore, as well as a glasshouse with over 50,000 plants from all over the world.
- Go shopping on Buchanan Street or Argyle Street. These two streets are the main shopping destinations in Glasgow, with a wide range of stores to choose from.
- Take a trip out to the countryside. Glasgow is surrounded by some stunning countryside, perfect for a day trip. Some of the best spots are Loch Lomond, Glencoe and the Trossachs National Park.
- Have a drink in one of Glasgow’s many pubs or bars. The city has a lively nightlife scene, with something for everyone. Whether you’re into traditional pubs or trendy cocktail bars, Glasgow has you covered.
- See a show at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall or the Theatre Royal. These two venues are both world-class and host a wide variety of shows, from classical concerts to musicals to stand-up comedy.
- Go for a walk or run in one of Glasgow’s parks. There are lots of great parks in the city, like George Square, Kelvingrove Park and Victoria Park. They’re perfect for a bit of exercise or just to relax on a nice day.
- Take a trip on the Glasgow Subway. This old-fashioned subway system is a fun way to explore the city and its landmarks.
- Eat some traditional Scottish food. Glasgow is famous for its delicious Scottish cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local dishes while you’re here. Some of the best places to eat are the Buchanan Whisky Bar and the Ubiquitous Chip.
- Enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere. Glasgow is a fun city with a lot of character, and there’s always something going on. Whether you’re into live music, clubbing or just exploring new bars and restaurants, you’ll never be bored in Glasgow.
Liverpool
Liverpool is a city that is rich in culture and history. There are many things to do in Liverpool, whether you’re a tourist or a local.
Here are some of our favourites things to do in Liverpool:
- Head to the waterfront and check out the Liver Building and the Albert Dock.
- Visit one of the city’s many museums, like the Tate Liverpool, the Museum of Liverpool or the International Slavery Museum.
- See a show at the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra or at one of the city’s theatres.
- Sample some of Liverpool’s famous food and drink, like scouse or a pint of bitter.
- Take a walk through one of Liverpool’s many green spaces, like Sefton Park or Stanley Park.
- Go shopping on Bold Street or in the Liverpool One shopping district.
- Take a ride on the Mersey Ferry.
- Head to one of Liverpool’s famous nightlife spots, like Mathew Street or Castle Street.
- Explore the city’s historic architecture, like the Anglican Cathedral or St George’s Hall.
- Visit one of Liverpool’s sandy beaches, like Southport or Formby.
London
London is one of the most iconic cities in the world. It is the perfect destination for those who are looking for a city break that will offer them an unforgettable experience.
There are plenty of things to see and do in London, making it the perfect destination for a city break.
Here are our top 10 London picks:
- Visit the Tower of London. This iconic landmark is home to the Crown Jewels, as well as a number of other historically significant exhibits.
- Take a walk along the Thames. This world-famous river is a great place to take in the sights of London.
- See a show at the West End. London’s theatre district offers some of the best productions in the world.
- Stroll through Hyde Park. This huge park is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Take a ride on the London Eye. This giant Ferris wheel offers amazing views of the cityscape.
- Visit Buckingham Palace. The official residence of the British monarch is a must-see for any visitor to London.
- Sample some traditional English fare at a pub. London is home to some of the best pubs in the world.
- Shop till you drop at Oxford Street. This world-famous shopping street offers everything from high-end boutiques to chain stores.
- See the sights of London from St Paul’s Cathedral. This iconic cathedral is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city.
- Get lost in London’s vibrant nightlife. There’s no shortage of bars, clubs and other nightlife venues in London.
Manchester
There’s plenty to do in Manchester, whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, want to get active or are just looking for a good night out.
Here are 10 suggestions to get you started:
- Visit the Museum of Science and Industry. This world-famous museum is home to loads of interactive exhibits and is perfect for families.
- Take a walk or cycle along the Manchester Ship Canal. This scenic route is perfect for a relaxing afternoon out.
- Enjoy a show at the Palace Theatre. Manchester’s oldest theatre is home to a variety of shows, from musicals to dramas.
- Spend a day at MediaCityUK. This buzzing development is home to the BBC, ITV and a host of other media organisations.
- Visit the National Football Museum. This award-winning museum is dedicated to the history and culture of football.
- See a concert at Manchester Arena. This world-famous arena hosts some of the biggest names in music.
- Sample the nightlife in Chinatown. This lively neighbourhood is home to some of Manchester’s best bars and restaurants.
- Visit the Whitworth Art Gallery. This acclaimed gallery is home to a wide range of art, from traditional paintings to contemporary installations.
- Take a walk in Castlefield. This former industrial area is now a popular parkland with plenty of historical sights to see.
- Head to the Trafford Centre. This huge shopping centre has something for everyone, from high-end fashion boutiques to family-friendly amusement parks.
Newcastle
There’s always something to do in Newcastle, no matter what time of year it is.
Here are 10 things you definitely won’t want to miss:
- Visit the Quayside. This riverside district is home to a variety of attractions, including the NewcastleGateshead Millennium Bridge, the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, and the Newcastle Science Museum.
- Explore Hadrian’s Wall. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important Roman ruins in the UK.
- Take a walk in the Botanical Gardens. This peaceful park is home to over 10,000 plants and trees from around the world.
- Visit St James’ Park. This picturesque park is home to Newcastle United Football Club and the Newcastle Falcons Rugby Club.
- Check out the nightlife. Newcastle is home to a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of pubs, clubs, and casinos to choose from.
- Take a ride on the Tyne ferry. This iconic river crossing offers wonderful views of the cityscape and the River Tyne.
- Sample the local cuisine. Newcastle is known for its delicious food, including local favourites like Newcastle Brown Ale and Geordie Pie.
- Take a shopping trip. From high-end boutiques to traditional markets, there’s something for everyone in Newcastle’s shopping district.
- Visit the Angel of the North. This impressive statue is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
- Explore the city’s rich history. From its impressive medieval architecture to its role in the Industrial Revolution, there’s a lot to discover in Newcastle’s history.
Norwich
You can’t go wrong with a trip to Norwich. From quirky pubs to scenic walks, this is ideal for a long weekend city break in the UK.
Things to do in Norwich:
- Go for a walk in the park. There are several parks in Norwich, including Eaton Park and Mousehold Heath. They are perfect for a relaxing stroll, and offer great views of the city.
- Visit the cathedral. The Norwich Cathedral is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. It’s a beautiful building, and well worth a visit.
- Take a walk down the river. The River Wensum runs through Norwich, and offers some great views of the city. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk on a sunny day.
- Enjoy a cup of coffee. Norwich is home to some great coffee shops, perfect for a relaxing break. Try out The Bicycle Shop or The Book Hive.
- Visit the museums. Norwich is home to several museums, including the Museum of Norwich at Elm Hill and the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts. They offer a great insight into the city’s history and culture.
- Go shopping. Norwich is home to a great selection of shops, perfect for a day of retail therapy. Head to The Lanes or Chapelfield Shopping Centre for some great finds.
- Have a night out. Norwich has a great selection of bars and restaurants, perfect for a night out on the town. Try out The Birdcage or The Murderers.
- See a show. Norwich is home to several theatres, including the Theatre Royal and the Norwich Playhouse. They often have a great selection of shows on offer.
- Go for a walk in the park. There are several parks in Norwich, including Eaton Park and Mousehold Heath. They are perfect for a relaxing stroll and offer great views of the city.
- Visit the cathedral. The Norwich Cathedral is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. It’s a beautiful building, and well worth a visit.
Brighton
There are plenty of things to see and do in Brighton and surrounding areas, including hiking trails and beautiful beaches. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start.
Here are some of the best things to do in Brighton:
- The Brighton Pier. This iconic pier is a major attraction in Brighton. It’s home to amusement rides, souvenir shops, and restaurants, as well as stunning views of the cityscape and sea.
- The British Airways i360. This new attraction offers visitors stunning 360-degree views of Brighton and the South Coast from a soaring tower. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
- The Royal Pavilion. This extravagant palace is a must-see for anyone visiting Brighton. It was built in the 1800s as a royal retreat, and its dazzling architecture and decor are sure to impress.
- The Lanes. This vibrant district is home to a mix of independent shops, cafes, and bars. It’s the perfect place to explore if you’re looking for unique souvenirs or a great meal.
- See a show. Brighton is home to several theatres, including the Theatre Royal and the Brighton Dome. They often have a great selection of shows on offer.
- Have a night out. Brighton has a great selection of bars and restaurants, perfect for a night out on the town. Try out The Prince Albert or Riddle & Finns.
- Go hiking. There are plenty of beautiful hiking trails in the surrounding area, perfect for an afternoon outdoors.
York
There is no shortage of things to do in York, no matter what your interests may be. From exploring its rich history to enjoying its lively nightlife, the city has something for everyone.
Here are just a few suggestions to get you started:
- Explore the city’s many historical sites. York is home to some of Britain’s most famous historical landmarks, including the York Minster and Clifford’s Tower.
- Visit one of the city’s many museums. York is home to a number of world-class museums, including the National Railway Museum and the York Art Gallery.
- Take a walk or bike ride through one of the city’s many parks. York is home to several large parks, including the beautiful Millennium Park and the sprawling Ebor Gardens.
- Enjoy a night out on the town. York is home to a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of pubs, clubs, and theatres to choose from.
- Sample some of the city’s delicious food. York is home to a wide variety of restaurants, serving everything from traditional British cuisine to exotic world cuisines.
- Shop until you drop. York is home to some of the best shopping in the country, with a wide variety of stores to choose from.
- Take a day trip to one of the city’s surrounding areas. There are plenty of charming villages and towns nearby that are worth a visit.
- Relax in one of the city’s many parks or gardens. York is home to some of the most beautiful parks and gardens in the country, perfect for a relaxing day out.
- Take a stroll down one of the city’s many pedestrian streets. York is home to some of the most charming and historic pedestrian streets in the country.
- Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while people-watching in one of the city’s many cafes. York is home to a large number of cosy cafes, perfect for taking a break from sightseeing.
Where will you be planning your UK city break?
So there you have it – ten great destinations for city breaks in the UK. Whether you’re looking for a city that is rich in history and culture or a city that is full of life and excitement, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in the UK. Start planning your next adventure today!
🚗 Fancy heading off on a road trip? Don’t miss our guide on the most scenic UK road trips!