The UK might not be the first place people think of when planning their next vacation, but you might want to rethink that.
Okay, it might not offer as much sun as some of the other places in Europe, but it more than makes up for that with the beautiful sights on offer. Here are some of the best cities to visit in the UK. Prepare yourself for a trip like no other.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Let’s start off with the capital of Scotland. Arguably, this is one of the most scenic cities in the world. It feels more like a quaint (but large) town located in the heart of stunning rolling hills.
You should start off with a walk up Arthur’s Seat because you’ll be treated with spectacular views of the entire city from this great vantage point. This ancient but extinct volcano makes for a beautiful walk.
You might also want to consider visiting Edinburgh when the Fringe Festival is on because it draws visitors worldwide. And there’s a good reason for this.
It’s the world’s largest arts festival with everything from musical acts to comedy performances. You also need to pay a visit to Edinburgh Castle whilst you’re in the city.
It offers an intriguing history as well as breathtaking views. You might also want to check out some of the websites out there offering specific advice for tours and the best places to see when visiting Scotland. There are lots of hidden gems in cities like Edinburgh that won’t have been mentioned here.
Manchester, England
Rather than mentioning the capital, which is a fantastic city, we’re going to talk about another amazing English city that isn’t discussed quite as often: Manchester.
It’s often viewed as England’s second major city, and it’s the North’s answer to London. In many ways, it’s a more enjoyable place to visit than London because it isn’t quite as congested but it still offers many incredible sights and things to do.
You should definitely head to the Trafford Centre to do some shopping, eat fantastic food at some of the restaurants in the ship-themed central area, and entertain yourself with a film, laser tag, or mini golf.
Make sure you head into the heart of the city for more wonderful things to do too. There are escape rooms at every corner (well worth trying out), and Piccadilly Gardens has a picturesque grassy area for relaxing with some food and a good book.
Dublin, Ireland
It wouldn’t be a fair article about magnificent cities in the UK if we didn’t mention Dublin. The capital city of Ireland is a place like no other. Juggling its historical roots and modern development in a well-concocted blend, Dublin really is a fascinating city with so much to offer.
Make sure you visit Trinity College and the Book of Kells. Given that Queen Elizabeth I opened it, this university building not only has a fascinating history, but it is also a stunning piece of architecture.
The same can be said for St. Patrick’s Cathedral and many other stunning historical buildings in the city. Dublin also has a vibrant nightlife, partly due to the young age of many of its inhabitants; make sure you check out some of the quaint pubs and bars throughout the city.