Having explored every corner of the UK over the past five years, I often get messages from followers asking where they should visit first. The question always makes me pause, because the UK packs so much variety into its relatively small size. From ancient castles to rolling countryside, busy cities to quiet coastal villages – it’s hard to know where to point people.
“What makes the UK special is how much history and different experiences you can find within just a few hours’ journey,” says James Morton, a local tour guide I met while wandering through the Lake District. “You can start your morning in London’s bustling markets, and by afternoon be hiking peaceful trails in Wales or exploring Scottish highlands.”
While you could spend months discovering all the UK’s hidden gems, most travelers need to be selective with their time. To help you plan your British adventure, I’ve put together this list of 20 places that showcase the best of what these islands have to offer.
London, England
London has earned its spot as one of the world’s greatest cities, and after spending time here, it’s easy to see why. This sprawling metropolis along the River Thames blends centuries-old history with modern culture in a way few other places can match. From the medieval Tower of London to the contemporary Tate Modern, you’ll find yourself wandering through different eras as you explore the city’s neighborhoods. It’s not just about the famous sites like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace – the real magic happens when you dive into local markets, catch a show in the West End, or join locals for Sunday roast at a neighborhood pub. Getting around is straightforward thanks to the extensive Underground system, though walking through the winding streets often reveals the most interesting discoveries.
Edinburgh, Scotland
I first discovered Edinburgh on a crisp autumn morning in 2019, when the ancient capital of Scotland was wrapped in a light morning mist. Perched dramatically between rolling hills and the North Sea, Edinburgh seamlessly blends its medieval Old Town with the elegant Georgian New Town – both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline from its position atop an extinct volcano, while the Royal Mile stretches down through the heart of Old Town, lined with centuries-old buildings and hidden closes (alleyways). Beyond the historic center, the city opens up to modern galleries, cozy pubs, and the lovely Princes Street Gardens, where locals gather for picnics with views of the castle above. The annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe transforms the city each August into the world’s largest arts festival, filling every available space with performances.
Bath, England
Ever soaked in thermal waters used by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago? You can do just that in Bath, where ancient history meets modern English charm. This UNESCO World Heritage city holds Britain’s only natural hot springs, centered around the remarkably preserved Roman Baths complex. Beyond the famous waters, Bath’s Georgian architecture tells stories through its honey-colored stone buildings, with the Royal Crescent standing as a perfect example of 18th-century grandeur. You can follow in Jane Austen’s footsteps through the same streets she once walked, visit the museum dedicated to her life, or simply unwind at the modern Thermae Bath Spa, where you can float in warm mineral waters while gazing over the city’s rooftops.
Cambridge, England
Have you ever seen students punting down a river in their graduation gowns? It’s a typical scene in Cambridge, just an hour north of London, where ancient college buildings line the peaceful River Cam. The home of one of the world’s oldest universities, this charming city lets you walk in the footsteps of brilliant minds like Stephen Hawking and Charles Darwin. You can wander through the medieval courtyards of 31 historic colleges, join the locals for afternoon tea in cozy cafes, or try your hand at punting – the traditional way to explore the famous “Backs” where college gardens meet the river. The free-to-visit Fitzwilliam Museum houses world-class art collections, while the nearby Cambridge University Botanic Garden offers a peaceful escape from the academic buzz.
Oxford, England
Many travelers come to Oxford for its prestigious university, the oldest in the English-speaking world, but this city offers much more than academic credentials. The mix of medieval college buildings and modern research facilities creates a unique atmosphere that draws millions of visitors each year. You can spend your days exploring the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, wandering through the covered market’s local shops, or taking a relaxing punt ride along the River Thames. While the university shapes much of the city’s character, Oxford’s busy cultural scene, with its museums, theaters, and year-round festivals, makes it an appealing destination for anyone interested in British history and culture.
York, England
Many visitors come to York for its medieval city walls and towering Gothic cathedral, but this historic city offers much more than ancient architecture. The narrow cobblestone lanes of The Shambles transport you back to the 14th century, while the fascinating Jorvik Viking Centre reveals York’s Norse heritage through archaeological finds and recreated scenes. The National Railway Museum houses an impressive collection of trains and railway artifacts, and you can get a different perspective on the city’s past at the York Castle Museum. While summer brings crowds to the York Races and food festivals, the city’s cozy pubs, tea rooms, and independent shops make it worth visiting in any season.
Lake District, England
Tucked away in northwest England is the Lake District, where rolling hills meet pristine lakes in a landscape that inspired countless poets and writers. Unlike other natural parks in the UK, the Lake District feels like it was pulled straight from a fairytale book. Just take a walk along the sheep-dotted trails or paddle across the mirror-like waters of Windermere Lake, and you’ll see what I mean. Because of its deep connection to literary giants like William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter, who lived and wrote here, you’ll find charming villages, historic stone cottages, and cozy tea rooms that seem frozen in time, making this region feel more like a living storybook than a national park.
Scottish Highlands, Scotland
My journey through the Scottish Highlands began in the summer of 2019, wandering through one of Europe’s last true wilderness regions. This rugged stretch of northern Scotland spreads out from Inverness to the far reaches of the northern coast, dotted with misty mountains and deep lochs that seem to hold ancient secrets. Small stone villages and historic castles peek out from green valleys, while herds of red deer roam freely across the heather-covered hills. The famous North Coast 500 road winds through the landscape, offering views of everything from sandy beaches to rocky cliffs, and leading travelers to hidden gems like the Eilean Donan Castle and the mysterious waters of Loch Ness. In the evening, traditional pubs come alive with the sound of folk music and the warm glow of local whisky, making every visitor feel like part of the Highland community.
Cornwall, England
I always tell beach lovers and history buffs to head straight to Cornwall when visiting England. Located at the southwestern tip of the country, this coastal region combines rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages with ancient castles and mystical sites like Tintagel, the legendary birthplace of King Arthur. From exploring the tropical gardens of the Eden Project to wandering the narrow cobblestone streets of St. Ives, Cornwall offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Snowdonia, Wales
I first visited Snowdonia in Wales during a rainy autumn weekend in 2019. One of the most rugged national parks in the UK, Snowdonia sprawls across 823 square miles of northwest Wales, with Mount Snowdon rising proudly at its heart. Small stone villages and rolling sheep pastures dot the landscape here, along with crystal-clear lakes and thundering waterfalls carved by ancient glaciers. The vintage Snowdon Mountain Railway chugs its way to the summit, offering views that stretch all the way to Ireland on clear days, while hikers tackle the six different paths that wind their way to the top. The surrounding valleys hide cozy pubs where you can warm up with Welsh rarebit and local ale after a day of mountain adventures.
Peak District, England
I first visited the Peak District on a hiking trip in 2018, drawn to England’s oldest national park established in 1951. Nestled between Manchester and Sheffield, this natural wonderland spans across six counties in the heart of the country. Rolling hills and rocky outcrops define the landscape here, while cozy villages like Bakewell and Castleton dot the valleys between. The famous Chatsworth House stands proudly amid the greenery, its manicured gardens flowing into the wild moorlands beyond. Hikers and climbers flock to spots like Kinder Scout and Stanage Edge, where centuries-old paths wind through limestone gorges and alongside bubbling streams. The local pubs, with their stone walls and crackling fires, offer the perfect end to a day of exploring these ancient peaks.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Many visitors journey to the Isle of Skye for its rugged coastlines and misty mountains, but this Scottish paradise offers much more than just natural wonders. The island’s winding roads lead to ancient castles like Dunvegan, mysterious rock formations at the Quiraing, and hidden waterfalls around every bend. Local pubs serve up fresh seafood and traditional Scottish fare, while small villages like Portree charm visitors with their colorful harbors and friendly locals. Whether you’re hiking the Cuillin Hills, watching for wildlife along the coast, or exploring the island’s rich history at various cultural sites, Skye delivers memorable experiences in every season.
Cotswolds, England
Step into a real-life storybook when you explore the charming villages of the Cotswolds, where honey-colored stone cottages line winding lanes and time seems to stand still. These rolling hills in the English countryside are dotted with market towns like Bourton-on-the-Water and Castle Combe, where you can wander past medieval churches and stop for afternoon tea in cozy cafes. Take a gentle walk along the 102-mile Cotswold Way to discover hidden gardens, ancient pubs, and peaceful meadows filled with grazing sheep. For a taste of local life, visit during one of the many farmers’ markets or join the locals for a traditional Sunday roast at a historic inn.
Cardiff, Wales
Get a taste of Welsh culture and history in Cardiff, the lively capital city that seamlessly blends old and new. Start your journey at Cardiff Castle, an 11th-century fortress in the heart of downtown where you can explore medieval towers and wartime tunnels. Sports fans shouldn’t miss a rugby match at Principality Stadium, where the energy of 74,000 cheering fans creates an unforgettable atmosphere. For a relaxing afternoon, head to Cardiff Bay, Europe’s largest waterfront development, where you can enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants or take a boat tour around the harbor.
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast may not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a UK trip, but this Northern Irish capital won my heart during my visit in 2019. Sitting pretty along the banks of the River Lagan, Belfast blends its shipbuilding heritage with modern attractions like the Titanic Belfast museum, which tells the story of the famous ship built right here in the city’s historic dockyards. The cobblestone streets of the Cathedral Quarter pulse with traditional Irish pubs and live music, while the Victorian-era St. George’s Market draws locals and visitors alike with its fresh produce and crafts. The city’s rocky past has given way to peace, evident in the political murals that now serve as powerful outdoor art galleries, particularly along Falls Road and Shankill Road. From the grand City Hall to the botanical gardens at Queen’s University, Belfast offers a genuine Irish welcome that’s hard to resist.
Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
The Giant’s Causeway has been drawing visitors to Northern Ireland’s rugged coast since I first visited in 2015. This remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site stretches along the northeastern edge of County Antrim, where roughly 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns rise from the sea like stepping stones from an ancient myth. According to Irish folklore, these peculiar formations were built by the giant Finn McCool as a pathway to Scotland, though geologists tell us they’re actually the result of volcanic activity from 60 million years ago. The columns create natural platforms perfect for exploring, while the surrounding clifftop trails offer sweeping views of the wild North Atlantic. The modern visitor center blends seamlessly into the landscape, providing context to this fascinating geological wonder through interactive exhibits and local stories.
St Andrews, Scotland
Many travelers flock to St Andrews for its famous Old Course, known as the birthplace of golf, but this Scottish coastal gem offers much more than just world-class fairways. The medieval town is home to Scotland’s oldest university, where cobblestone streets wind past ancient buildings and ruins that tell stories from centuries past. The beaches of West Sands and East Sands stretch along the coastline, providing perfect spots for long walks or picnics with views of the North Sea. While golf enthusiasts can often be spotted teeing off year-round, the town comes especially alive during university term times, when students fill the local pubs and cafes that line the narrow streets of Market Street and South Street.
Canterbury, England
Just an hour’s train ride from London sits the historic city of Canterbury. Like other English cathedral cities, Canterbury has its medieval buildings, cobblestone streets, and traditional tea rooms. But what sets it apart is its role as the spiritual heart of England. Walking through its narrow lanes, you’ll hear the echoing bells of Canterbury Cathedral, where pilgrims have journeyed for over 800 years. The city gained fame through Chaucer’s “Canterbury Tales,” and you can still feel those stories come alive as you wander past timber-framed houses and along the old city walls. Because of its importance as a medieval pilgrimage site, Canterbury developed a unique mix of architecture and culture, with Roman ruins sitting alongside Norman churches and Tudor-style shops.
Stonehenge, England
Of all the mysterious ancient sites I’ve explored in England, nothing leaves me as awestruck as Stonehenge. This 5,000-year-old circle of massive stones stands tall on Salisbury Plain, drawing visitors who want to understand how prehistoric humans managed to transport and arrange these 25-ton rocks with remarkable precision. It’s not just another old monument – the site has puzzled archaeologists and historians for centuries, with its perfect alignment to the summer solstice sunrise suggesting it was an ancient calendar or ceremonial ground. While you can’t walk among the stones anymore (unless you book a special access visit), the walking path around the circle offers plenty of chances to marvel at this engineering feat and ponder the mysteries of our ancestors.
Loch Ness, Scotland
Have you ever dreamed of spotting a legendary monster in a mysterious lake? You’ll find yourself scanning the dark waters at Loch Ness, where Scotland’s most famous resident, Nessie, has sparked imaginations for generations. This 23-mile-long freshwater lake cuts through the Scottish Highlands like a giant’s sword, surrounded by ancient castles and thick forests. Here you can join monster-hunting boat tours, explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle perched above the loch, or hike the trails that wind through the surrounding hills. Even if you don’t spot the elusive creature, the misty atmosphere and rich folklore of this Highland gem make it worth the journey.
