The UK is home to dozens of cities, each with a unique character and blend of modern and traditional architecture. With so many to choose from, deciding which is best suited to your city break can be difficult.To help you, we’ve collated our top picks for the best destinations to spend a weekend or extended bank holiday.
Edinburgh: A Blend of History and Festivities
Scotland’s compact, hilly capital features a medieval Old Town and Georgia New Town, which are within a 16-minute walk of each other. After exploring the blend of Reformation and neoclassical buildings that form part of a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, history buffs can take a trip to Edinburgh Castle, which looms over the city on a volcanic plug.
For a less well-known outing, the Dean Village on the border of the Water of Leith features stunning architecture. Walk down its path along the water’s edge towards the west of the city to admire the sandstone before a visit to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.
Manchester: The Musical and Industrial Powerhouse
Manchester is a northern metropolis that boasts some of the best places to eat in the UK. The Corn Exchange is home to a mix of global cuisines, including Greece, Germany, and the Far East. A four-minute walk away, the Michelin-starred Skof pays homage to the city’s industrial heritage, serving Manchester honey ice cream against the backdrop of exposed brickwork and girders.
If you’re looking for independent shops and vintage boutiques, visit the Northern Quarter. DJs and music lovers can sift through vinyl at Piccadilly Records and Beatin’ Rhythm and later enjoy a night out in its bar scene.
Bath: Relaxation Amidst Georgian Elegance
Bath, in Somerset, is named after its Roman-built baths, which have long attracted visitors seeking a relaxing spa getaway. It’s gained more attention in recent years thanks to being a filming location for the first two seasons of Bridgerton, with No.1 Royal Crescent serving as the home of the Featherington family.
Pride and Prejudice fans can enjoy a trip to the Jane Austen Centre at 4 Sydney Place, her former residence, to discover the city’s influence on her works. The Bath Forum, a Grade-II listed building, is another must-stop for live music and comedy fans.
Liverpool: Maritime Heritage and Modern Culture
Liverpool is the home of The Beatles and a major historic port city. Between the 18th and early 20th centuries, it was a key trade and migration port, attracting people from all over the world and constructing the first intercity rail link with Manchester.
Take a ferry to cruise the waterfront for stunning views of the Three Graces on the Pier Head. Football enthusiasts should visit Anfield Stadium to watch a Premier League match and pick up a Liverpool FC kit as a souvenir.
Norwich: A Creative City with Historical Charm
Norwich is one of the UK’s oldest cities, dating back to 43 AD. It gained city status in 1094 and a royal charter from King Richard I in 1194. Today, the cathedral city is the county town of Norfolk, just a 1.5-hour train ride from London.
Visitors can stroll down the timer-framed lined Elm Hill and explore its antique shops before touring The Forum, a modern landmark in the city centre.
