Best Cities to Visit in the UK

If you have not been to the United Kingdom before, then you are in for a treat. With many beautiful cities to explore, each with its own distinct characteristics and attractions, take a look at the top-rated cities in the UK below.

Oxford

A university town that attracts academics and creatives alike, Oxford is a beautiful place that boasts an abundance of first-class restaurants and luxury hotels. Take a walk down the many cobbled streets and hallowed halls and explore the many quaint bookshops and bespoke boutiques.

Why you should visit Oxford:

• It is home to Britain’s oldest university
• It has been voted the most aesthetic location in the UK
• It is steeped in history and culture

Bristol

Bristol is known for being a sustainable city and offers some of the most beautiful architecture in the UK, including Cabot Tower, Bristol Cathedral, and Clifton Suspension Bridge. This city boasts an abundance of green space, with village-like communities that are loved by residents and tourists alike.

There are two Michelin-starred restaurants in Bristol: Bulrush and Paco Tapas.

Why you should visit Bristol:

• It has a thriving music scene and street art culture
• It was the first UK city to be awarded European Green Capital
• It is home to the Clifton Suspension Bridge

Bath

Bath has been voted one of the best UK cities for weekend breaks, with so many wonderful attractions and sights to explore. Most notably, the ancient thermal spas are a must-visit and are perfect for couples looking for a romantic day out. Make sure you take the time to wander down the many curved Georgian streets and take in the stunning architecture.

Why you should visit Bath:

• It is home to the Jane Austen Centre
• It is only 90 minutes from London
• It is a small city that you can get around easily and all by foot in just one day

Liverpool

A cool city that is favored by young and trendy crowds, Liverpool is awash with vintage shops, art galleries, entertainment venues, and great places to eat. Liverpool also has great nightlife, making it a good choice for those who like to dance the night away.

Why you should visit Liverpool:

• It has been crowned as a UNESCO City of Music
• It is the birthplace of the Beatles
• It is home to two of Britain’s largest cathedrals

London 

There are an impressive 32 different boroughs in London, each of which offers something different for visitors. For those that love all things trendy, head to Shoreditch, Notting Hill, or Soho, all of which boast a thriving nightlife and lots of amazing places to eat. Or, if you want to soak up some culture and explore the heritage of the capital, don’t miss Kensington and Mayfair. There are plenty of guided tours through historical areas, and even boat cruises London tours that visit the scenic canals, so there is no shortage of sights to see in the city! There are lots of amazing hotels in London, including Claridge’s and The Savoy, both of which offer fine dining in stunning surroundings.

Why you should visit London:

• It boasts a huge transport network so getting around is easy
• It has a vibrant nightlife
• It has lots of amazing attractions
• It offers remarkable food diversity

Manchester

Manchester is a vibrant city that boasts some of the best restaurants in the UK. It is also famous for its music and culture, with frequent festivals and events held throughout the year. Make sure you time your trip with an event taking place if this is what you are into. It also has a thriving LGBTQ+ and is known for its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere and local residents. In fact, lets.go.manchester is a wonderful resource for what to eat, drink, visit, and see in Manchester!

Why you should visit Manchester:

• It is culturally diverse
• It boasts a thriving nightlife scene
• It is great for foodies

Edinburgh

Edinburgh in Scotland is famous for its many festivals and abundance of eateries. The perfect UK city for foodies and people who love to party, Edinburgh also has a rich cultural history. For whiskey lovers, Edinburgh has a number of whiskey walks that are perfect for sampling this local specialty and learning more about how it is made.

Why you should visit Edinburgh:

• It has some of the UK’s best Michelin-starred restaurants
• It boasts striking architecture
• It is home to Edinburgh Castle

Reading

Reading offers the perfect combination of city life and relaxing countryside. Just 40 miles west of London, Reading is best known for its welcoming and multicultural vibe. The city itself boasts an amazing selection of cocktail bars, pubs, and restaurants, making it a good choice for foodies and those who love to go out for a drink or two.

Why you should visit Reading:

• It is close to the capital
• It has a warm community vibe
• Provides stunning scenery

If you are planning a trip to the UK any time soon, make sure these top cities are among the places you head to. Whether you are a fanatical foodie, a cultural enthusiast, or a party animal, there is something for everyone in these top cities in the UK.

Where will you go first?