Top 10 Best British Cities To Visit


 

1. Bath

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When it comes to the great expanse of British history, Bath really is the city that has it all. Whatever you’re interested in seeing on your visit, whether it’s Roman ruins which are thousands of years old, jaw dropping gothic architecture, or elegant Georgian streets, you’ll find it in this iconic, ancient city. Bath’s historical offerings are unmatched, as evidenced by its status as a World Heritage site. If you’re a history buff, a visit to the famous Roman Baths is an essential activity during your trip. If shopping is more your thing, you’ll find no end of chic boutiques and big name brands in the city’s shopping district. Either way, Bath is the perfect place to relax and unwind as you wander through the winding streets and admire the grand, sweeping boulevards.

If you’re hungry after all that sightseeing, make sure to visit Sally Lunn’s Bun Shop, the home of baker Sally Lunn’s famous Bath Buns. At this cosy tearoom, you’ll meet tourists who have travelled from all over the world to sample the delicious buns. Don’t forget to venture down to the basement, a fascinating site where the many layers of Bath’s history are on display, from Roman foundations to Victorian brickwork.

2. York

There’s no shortage of things to do in beautiful York. From the famous medieval York Minster Cathedral to the Shambles historic shopping district, York has no end of historical delights to surprise you on your visit. An excellent beginning to your tour is to walk the three kilometres of medieval stone walls that surrounded the city in times gone by. After that, make sure to follow the locals and visit the monthly Friday farmers market at St. Sampson Square, after you’re done browsing at one of the city’s many picturesque second hand book shops.

York is a magical place at any time of year, with winter being the most unique. At the temperature drops, the city transforms into a Dickensian portrait, complete with twinkling lights, frosty buildings and icy alleyways. Navigate the slippery paths to arrive at one of the city’s many cosy pubs, and reward yourself with a glass of mulled wine by a crackling log fire. Have a very merry York Christmas!

3. Edinburgh

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Home of some of the world’s largest and most famous festivals, Edinburgh is a cultural hub for the arts. If you fancy fighting the crowds during August, a visit to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is an event like no other, with esteemed comedians travelling in from all corners of the globe to make you laugh.

Otherwise, Edinburgh is probably most famous for its history. Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and the Scot Monument are all sites of national importance and well worth a visit, if you don’t mind fighting for space with other tourists during peak times. For a quieter trip, try climbing as far as you can up Arthur’s Seat to get the best possible view of the city.

If you’re heading to the shops, it’s all about the movie memorabilia. Scotland has been the filming site for countless famous films and television shows. Fans of the Starz series Outlander will be delighted with the themed offerings. Alternatively, Harry Potter fans will also delight in seeing the very cafe in which JK Rowling sat and wrote her masterpiece.

4. Bristol

One of the South-West’s most trendy, up and coming cities, Bristol is a bustling center for students, artists and free thinkers. Galleries, pop ups and street food markets are a daily occurrence here, especially in the thriving city centre. Make sure to visit the M Shed for the best of what the city has to offer, or We The Curious has fun and interactive exhibitions suitable for all the family.

Bristol’s parking options aren’t always cheap or convenient, so consider catching a fast train into Bristol Temple Meads, which in itself is a fascinating historical building. Trains arrive regularly from London Paddington, Bath and the Midlands.

For a slower, more traditional pace, head to Clifton to admire the elegant townhouses and pay a visit to the historic Bristol Zoo. Head to the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge for an incredible view of the Avon Gorge and the slopes of the old part of the city. Make sure you bring your walking shoes, though, as this area is famously hilly!

5. Oxford

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The city of Oxford, and it’s university, are some of Britain’s most iconic places, and well worth a visit for anyone interested in history, architecture or literature.

Oxford University has no end of incredible buildings and sites to admire. Wander the streets and quads, some of which remain unchanged after hundreds of years, and marvel at all the history which has taken place right where you’re standing. If you really want to get behind the scenes of the University, consider booking a walking tour of the grounds. Often these are given by the students themselves, who can provide in depth, personal knowledge.

If you’re a classic literature fan, don’t miss the stained glass window at Christ Church which celebrates the work of Charles Dodgson, also known as Lewis Carroll, author of Alice in Wonderland. If the weather permits, take a stroll through the Oxford Botanic Garden and Arboretum, a peaceful and inspiring space away from all the urban hustle and bustle.

6. Chester

Of course, one of the first things that comes to mind when you think of Chester is the world famous Chester Zoo, and for good reason. The zoo is the most visited one in the UK, welcoming almost two million visitors every year. Their animals number some 21,000 or so, and range from majestic black rhinos and towering giraffes to tiny tropical frogs and flashy birds of paradise. A visit to the zoo is a fun and informative day out for all the family.

If you prefer to experience a but more culture and history on your visit, Chester possesses some of Britain’s most complete and extensive Roman ruins, including the 2000 year old Roman wall which encircled the ancient city. For slightly more recent history, why not try wandering Chester’s famous Rows? The iconic half-timbered terraced galleries are unique to the city and a fascinating insight into the homes and shops of the 13th century.

7. Durham

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Home to one of the UK’s top universities, Durham is a small but historic city full of hidden delights.

Durham prides itself on its connection to its history, with the famous Durham Cathedral and Castle forming a UNESCO World Heritage site in the city. You can also visit Beamish – The Living Museum of the North, an incredible living and working village showcasing life in times gone by.

Sport is also at the centre of life in Durham. The esteemed Sedgefield Racecourse holds regular horse races, along with the Emirates Riverside Cricket Ground which is a top venue for cricket, concerts and other celebrations. There’s also no shortage of excellent golf courses in the countryside surrounding the city. If your preferred form of exercise is a simple walk, you’ll have plenty of choice thanks to Durham’s many paths, trails and parks, with walking routes suitable for those of all fitness and ability levels.

8. St Davids

Upon first visiting the picturesque city of St Davids, you’d be forgiven for thinking that it wasn’t actually a city at all! While it’s true that the tiny population of 1,600 doesn’t warrant sprawling urban metropolis status, St Davids is indeed officially a city thanks to its magnificent cathedral, an esteemed building which automatically awards its location as a city, no matter its size.

Despite not being as big as the other places on this list, St Davids still has plenty to see and do. Aside from the St Davids Cathedral, which in itself is a spectacular site, the quaint city is a treasure trove of small galleries, independent cafes and charming boutiques, perfect for spending a relaxing couple of days strolling and taking in the gorgeous Pembrokeshire scenery.

9. Belfast

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The capital city of Northern Ireland is a vibrant and unforgettable place to visit, with thriving nightlife, unique arts scene and fascinating recent and ancient history. This makes it ideal for either a day visit or an extended stay.

Of course, one of the city’s most iconic attractions is the Titanic Museum, easily spotted by the unique architectural design of the building, shaped to represent the bow of the famous doomed ship. In 2016 this moving experience was named the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction by the World Travel Awards, and is packed with fascinating facts and artifacts.

Other key tourist attractions include the Belfast Zoological Gardens, the W5 At Odyssey science center and the nearby Giant’s Causeway. The wide scope of things to do in Belfast means that it’s perfect for a couples break, a trip with friends or a visit with children.

10. Inverness

Far up in the Highlands of Scotland lies Inverness, the country’s northernmost city. The city combines all the best parts of Scotland: a fascinating past, a gateway to the Highlands, and a modern, advanced outlook.

There is a wide range of things to do on your visit to Inverness. Top of your list should be a trip to Loch Ness, located just a short drive away. You may not spy the Loch Ness Monster on your first trip, but the breathtaking scenery of the Loch is enough. Here you’ll find numerous ways of getting the best view of the Loch, including boat trips and trails.

In the city itself, you’ll find no end of hip bars, cosy book shops and eclectic antique shops, perfect for finding the ideal souvenir to remember your visit by.

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