12 Must-Visit Cities in the UK That Will Make You Wonder Why You Haven’t Been Yet

You might call me biased because I’m from the United Kingdom, North Wales to be precise, but I firmly believe that the UK is one of the world’s most interesting and exciting countries. Comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom has it all.

You can expect historic landmarks, world-class museums, breathtaking architecture, delicious food, and more. As a result, deciding where to visit first is challenging, mainly if you’ve never visited before. To help, we’ve compiled a list of 12 must-visit cities in the UK. The selected cities offer many things to do, rich history, and beautiful scenery. Stick around to find your next UK vacation destination.

Table of Contents

London

London is the most obvious place to start our list. The capital of England is one of the world’s most famous cities, and with good reason. The opportunities it presents tourists are endless. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic weekend, a family with two children, a history enthusiast, or a solo traveler, London has something for you.

In fact, there’s so much to see and do in London that it’s impossible to do it all in one trip. Therefore, you should prioritize experiencing the city’s most iconic attractions. Must-visit attractions in London include the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, London Bridge, and Camden Market. Meanwhile, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Richmond Park.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is my favorite city in the United Kingdom. Everything from the city’s mesmerizing medieval architecture and lush scenery to scenic parks and underground dungeons is spectacular. I’d move to Edinburgh if I could afford it, but I’d likely only be able to afford one of the dungeon cells.

The Scottish capital is compact, so you won’t have trouble getting around. From the historic Old Town, you can cross one bridge to the New Town, walk up to Edinburgh Castle, or walk to Arthur’s Seat. We highly recommend walking to the top of Arthur’s Seat for the best city views, although Calton Hill also offers excellent views and is much easier. Other notable attractions include the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the Scott Monument.

York

The United Kingdom is renowned for its beautiful walled cities bursting with history and medieval architecture. York is one of the most fascinating. Often considered one of the best medieval cities in Europe, York is home to a magnificent 14th-century street called the Shambles. Budding wizards will recognize the street from Harry Potter, as it inspired Diagon Alley.

The winding, narrow streets of the Shambles are a joy to behold. You’ll never tire of admiring the leaning houses and quaint shops. Don’t miss the Harry Potter-themed store during your visit. Once you’ve got lost in the Shambles, go to the 13th-century Gothic cathedral, stop by York Castle, and have fun at the JORVIK Viking Centre.

Chester

Another beautiful walled city in the United Kingdom is Chester. Located in northwest England near the England and Wales border, Chester is a historic city that the Romans put on the map. The Romans founded the city as a Roman fortress in the 1st century A.D., building towering red sandstone walls around it for protection.

To many people’s surprise, the city is home to a Roman amphitheater that historians believe may have been as big as the iconic Roman Colosseum. The Rows, a shopping district in the Old City built across two levels below stunning Tudor-style half-timber buildings, shouldn’t be missed, either. After exploring, fill your tummy with international delights at Chester Market.

Liverpool

While Liverpool is much smaller than London, it certainly packs a punch, offering travelers a wealth of exciting things to see and do. For starters, Liverpool has the second-highest number of listed buildings, parks, and museums in the United Kingdom. This northwest city also has two world-famous soccer teams: Liverpool and Everton.

Better yet, the city is the official home of the Beatles. You can still party in the Cavern Club, where the Beatles first started on Matthew Street. Sat on the River Mersey, you can enjoy strolls along the river and a delicious meal in the Albert Docks. Alternatively, explore the Maritime Museum or the World Museum, and peruse the shops in Liverpool One. What’s not to like?

Belfast

From Liverpool, you can take a ferry directly to Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. Considered the gateway to Northern Ireland, many travelers pass through the city on their way to somewhere else. You can easily reach places like Carrick-a-Rede, the Giant’s Causeway, and Portstewart from the capital. However, the city itself has much to offer, too.

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For example, in Belfast, you’ll find exciting attractions, such as the Titanic Belfast Museum, Belfast Castle, Belfast City Hall, and St George’s Market. Partygoers might also be happy to hear that Belfast is a fantastic place for a night out. It has a lively nightlife scene that features live music events, festivals, and nightclubs.

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Bath

Bath may not be one of the United Kingdom’s most visited cities, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and historic. Also known as the “Queen of English Cities,” Bath has drawn travelers in for centuries with its breathtaking architecture, alluring hot springs, and grandeur. The city takes its name from its world-famous Roman Baths.

You can no longer get in the Roman Baths, but visiting is still possible. Besides, there is a modern-day bath spa next door. Once you’ve had your fill of 2,000 year+ baths, visit Bath Abbey, No 1 Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge. Then, visit a cozy tea room for a cup of tea and some Victoria Sponge cake.

Glasgow

The next city on our list is Glasgow, a fascinating city that offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you want to visit historic landmarks and learn more about the city, party hard with friends, watch soccer, or shop until you drop, Glasgow has something you’ll enjoy. A Mecca for activity, you’ll never struggle to find something to do.

However, some attractions and activities stand out, including Glasgow Cathedral, Glasgow Botanic Gardens, the Riverside Museum, and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Meanwhile, sports fans will most likely want to visit Celtic Park or the Ibrox, the famous homes of Celtic F.C. and Rangers F.C. Those looking for a party or good grub should head to Finnieston.

Cardiff

It’s about time Wales was mentioned on our list, and there’s no better offering than the capital city, Cardiff. Despite only being the 11th largest city in the United Kingdom, Cardiff is the largest city in Wales. The city was once famous for its coal production and exportation. However, tourists love it most for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and picturesque waterfront.

Explore the city’s many castles when you’re not strolling along Cardiff Bay or shopping in the busy city center. There are over 20 castles in Cardiff, Cardiff Castle being the most iconic. This castle is over 2,000 years old. Other must-see attractions in Cardiff include the National Museum Cardiff, Wales Millenium Centre, and St. Fagans National Museum of History.

Swansea

Swansea, Cardiff’s fierce rivals and neighbors, is the second largest city in Wales. The birthplace of poet Dylan Thomas and home to the Swans (Swansea Football Club), Swansea is a vibrant city much appreciated for its scenic waterfront, rich history, and arts and culture scene. It’s a great place to visit if you love the great outdoors.

You’ll likely spend most of your time walking along the waterfront, visiting the lush parks, and exploring the city’s most famous sights. One of the city’s most famous locations is the Mumbles. For those who don’t know, the Mumbles is a picturesque headland at the Western edge of Swansea Bay. Other noteworthy attractions include Caswell Bay Beach, Oystermouth Castle, Singleton Park, and the National Waterfront Museum.

Truro

Suppose you’ve always wanted to explore Cornwall and its magnificent coastal landscapes and lush national parks, but you also enjoy the big city atmosphere. In that case, you must visit Truro, Cornwall’s only city. Truro is a historic city famed for its narrow cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture, and vibrant festivals and events.

Better yet, it offers convenient access to popular destinations in Cornwall, such as Falmouth, Loe Beach, the Roseland Heritage Coast, and Penzance. Truro itself also has many exciting things to see, including Truro Cathedral, Victoria Gardens, Lemon Street Market, and National Trust – Trelissick Garden. Don’t forget to try the iconic Cornish Pasty during your visit.

Manchester

The final city on our list of cities in the United Kingdom is Manchester, a beautiful English city loved by travelers across Europe. Located in northwest England, near Liverpool, this bustling city is best known for its rich industrial heritage, 18th-century canal system, and impressive architecture. It’s also the largest metropolis in north England.

The fun doesn’t stop there, either, as Manchester also has a rich sports culture, a lively music scene, and multiple world-famous shopping districts. Shopping enthusiasts can shop until they drop in the Arndale Shopping Centre, sports lovers can watch Manchester United F.C. at Old Trafford, and history buffs can learn more about the city at the Manchester Museum. Finally, music fans can listen to live music in Deansgate.