10 Best Places to Visit in United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is one of those rare destinations that feels familiar yet endlessly surprising. From royal palaces and medieval castles to dramatic coastlines, green countryside, and buzzing modern cities, the UK packs an incredible variety of experiences into a relatively small area. You can explore centuries of history in the morning, enjoy world-class cuisine in the afternoon, and end your day in a cozy pub that feels straight out of a storybook. When considering the best places to visit in United Kingdom, the options are endless.
What makes the United Kingdom especially appealing is how easy it is to tailor a trip to your travel style. Families love its museums, parks, and attractions, couples enjoy romantic villages and scenic train journeys, solo travelers appreciate the safety and walkable cities, and luxury travelers find some of the world’s finest hotels and dining. At the same time, budget travelers can get around efficiently using public transport and enjoy countless free attractions. Discovering the best places to visit in United Kingdom can be an unforgettable experience.
This United Kingdom travel guide takes you through the best places to visit in United Kingdom, highlights unforgettable things to do, and helps you find the best hotels in the United Kingdom for every budget. Whether you are planning your first visit or returning to explore deeper, the UK always has something new waiting to be discovered among the best places to visit in United Kingdom.
1. London
London is the cultural and historical heart of the United Kingdom, a global city where tradition and modern life exist side by side. From royal landmarks to cutting-edge neighborhoods, London offers endless variety. You can explore iconic sights like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, dive into history at world-class museums, or discover creative districts filled with markets, cafés, and street art. The city’s neighborhoods each have their own personality, making every walk feel like a new experience. London is fast-paced yet welcoming, sophisticated yet playful, and truly one of the best places to visit in United Kingdom.
Things to Do in London
✅ Visit Buckingham Palace and witness the Changing of the Guard
✅ Explore the British Museum and National Gallery
✅ Walk along the River Thames from Westminster to Tower Bridge
✅ Shop and eat your way through Covent Garden and Soho
✅ Enjoy panoramic city views from the London Eye or Sky Garden
Best Hotels in London (Expedia)
Luxury Hotel: The Savoy is a legendary riverside hotel known for elegant rooms, classic British service, and a romantic atmosphere ideal for couples.
Budget Hotel: Point A Hotel London offers modern, compact rooms in central locations, perfect for travelers who want comfort without high prices.
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Dishoom for modern Indian cuisine inspired by Bombay cafés
✅ Rules for classic British dishes in a historic setting
✅ Flat Iron for affordable, high-quality steaks
2.Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city that feels like stepping into a novel. With its dramatic castle perched above the skyline, cobbled streets, and rich literary history, Scotland’s capital is unforgettable. The Old Town tells stories of medieval life, while the Georgian New Town showcases elegant architecture and shopping streets. Edinburgh also has a lively cultural scene, famous festivals, and easy access to natural landscapes. Its moody beauty, combined with warm Scottish hospitality, makes it one of the most atmospheric places in the United Kingdom, and one of the best places to visit in United Kingdom.
Things to Do in Edinburgh
✅ Explore Edinburgh Castle and enjoy views over the city
✅ Walk the Royal Mile from the castle to Holyrood Palace
✅ Hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic scenery
✅ Visit museums and cafés in the Old Town
✅ Experience local pubs with live music and whisky tastings
Best Hotels in Edinburgh (Expedia)
Luxury Hotel: The Balmoral is a grand landmark hotel offering refined luxury, excellent dining, and a prime location near Princes Street.
Budget Hotel: ibis Edinburgh Centre provides clean, comfortable rooms within walking distance of major attractions.
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ The Witchery by the Castle for romantic Scottish dining
✅ Oink for casual and famous hog roast sandwiches
✅ The Scran & Scallie for elevated pub food
3.Manchester
Manchester is a dynamic city known for its music, football, and industrial heritage. Once the heart of the Industrial Revolution, Manchester has reinvented itself as a creative and cultural powerhouse. It is home to legendary football clubs, a thriving nightlife, and a growing food scene. The city’s friendly energy, historic warehouses turned into trendy spaces, and strong local identity make it one of the most exciting places to visit in the United Kingdom, and undeniably one of the best places to visit in United Kingdom.
Things to Do in Manchester
✅ Visit the National Football Museum
✅ Explore the Northern Quarter for independent shops and street art
✅ Tour Old Trafford or Etihad Stadium
✅ Discover science and industry museums
✅ Enjoy live music and nightlife across the city
Best Hotels in Manchester (Expedia)
Luxury Hotel: The Lowry Hotel offers spacious rooms, river views, and upscale comfort ideal for luxury travelers.
Budget Hotel: Motel One Manchester provides stylish rooms at affordable prices in central locations.
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Dishoom Manchester for popular Indian dishes
✅ Hawksmoor Manchester for premium steaks
✅ Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza for casual dining
4. Liverpool
Liverpool is a city full of soul, famous worldwide for its music heritage and maritime history. Known as the birthplace of The Beatles, Liverpool blends culture, creativity, and waterfront beauty. Its regenerated docks, friendly locals, and strong sense of pride make it a joy to explore. The city also offers impressive museums, historic architecture, and a lively nightlife scene, making it another of the best places to visit in United Kingdom.
Things to Do in Liverpool
✅ Visit The Beatles Story and Cavern Club
✅ Explore Albert Dock and waterfront museums
✅ Tour Anfield Stadium
✅ Walk through historic neighborhoods
✅ Enjoy ferry rides across the River Mersey
Best Hotels in Liverpool (Expedia)
Luxury Hotel: Titanic Hotel Liverpool offers spacious rooms in a converted warehouse with a unique industrial-luxury feel.
Budget Hotel: Staybridge Suites Liverpool provides comfortable, value-friendly accommodation near the docks.
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Maray for small plates and modern flavors
✅ Panoramic 34 for fine dining with views
✅ Bold Street Coffee for casual meals
5. Bath
Bath is a compact and elegant city famous for its Roman history and honey-colored Georgian architecture. The city’s ancient Roman Baths and beautifully preserved streets create a refined and relaxed atmosphere. Bath is ideal for travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and slower travel. Its walkable layout and charming cafés make it perfect for a short, romantic getaway and one of the best places to visit in United Kingdom.
Things to Do in Bath
✅ Visit the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey
✅ Relax at the Thermae Rooftop Spa
✅ Stroll through Georgian streets and Royal Crescent
✅ Explore museums and independent shops
✅ Enjoy scenic walks along the River Avon
Best Hotels in Bath (Expedia)
Luxury Hotel: The Royal Crescent Hotel offers classic luxury in one of the UK’s most iconic buildings.
Budget Hotel: Z Hotel Bath provides stylish, compact rooms at reasonable prices.
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House for traditional buns
✅ The Olive Tree for fine dining
✅ The Scallop Shell for seafood
6. Oxford
Oxford is a city of timeless academic beauty, home to one of the world’s oldest universities. Its historic colleges, libraries, and green spaces give the city a calm and intellectual atmosphere. Oxford is perfect for travelers interested in history, literature, and architecture. Despite its scholarly reputation, the city also has a youthful energy thanks to its student population, making it one of the best places to visit in United Kingdom.
Things to Do in Oxford
✅ Visit historic university colleges
✅ Explore the Bodleian Library
✅ Go punting on the River Cherwell
✅ Walk through Christ Church Meadow
✅ Discover museums and bookshops
Best Hotels in Oxford (Expedia)
Luxury Hotel: Old Bank Hotel combines boutique luxury with a central location overlooking historic streets.
Budget Hotel: easyHotel Oxford offers affordable accommodation for short stays.
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ The Turf Tavern for classic pub food
✅ Vaults & Garden Café for relaxed dining
✅ Quod Restaurant & Bar for modern British cuisine
7. Cardiff
Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is a compact city with a strong cultural identity. It combines medieval history with modern entertainment and green spaces. Cardiff Castle sits right in the city center, while nearby Cardiff Bay offers waterfront dining and attractions. The city is friendly, affordable, and easy to explore, making it one of the best places to visit in United Kingdom.
Things to Do in Cardiff
✅ Visit Cardiff Castle
✅ Explore Cardiff Bay and waterfront
✅ Watch rugby at Principality Stadium
✅ Stroll through parks and shopping arcades
✅ Experience Welsh culture and food
Best Hotels in Cardiff (Expedia)
Luxury Hotel: St David’s Hotel offers modern luxury with bay views and spa facilities.
Budget Hotel: Sleeperz Hotel Cardiff provides affordable comfort near the train station.
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ The Potted Pig for Welsh-inspired dishes
✅ Pasture for steaks
✅ Cafe Rouge Cardiff Bay for casual meals
8. York
York is one of the best places to visit in the United Kingdom for history lovers. With Roman roots, Viking heritage, and medieval walls, the city feels like a living museum. York’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, and its charming streets are filled with shops, tearooms, and historic landmarks, contributing to its reputation as one of the best places to visit in United Kingdom.
Things to Do in York
✅ Walk along the medieval city walls
✅ Visit York Minster Cathedral
✅ Explore The Shambles street
✅ Discover Viking history museums
✅ Enjoy traditional afternoon tea
Best Hotels in York (Expedia)
Luxury Hotel: The Grand York offers elegant rooms and historic charm in a central location.
Budget Hotel: Hampton by Hilton York provides modern comfort at reasonable rates.
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ Bettys Café Tea Rooms for classic tea
✅ Skosh for modern dining
✅ The Golden Fleece for pub meals
9. Lake District
The Lake District is England’s most famous national park, known for stunning lakes, rolling hills, and peaceful villages. It is ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and travelers seeking relaxation. The region’s natural beauty has inspired poets and artists for centuries and continues to be one of the most scenic areas in the UK, and a wonderful addition to the best places to visit in United Kingdom.
Things to Do in the Lake District
✅ Hike scenic trails and hills
✅ Take boat cruises on lakes
✅ Visit charming villages
✅ Enjoy photography and wildlife spotting
✅ Relax in countryside inns
Best Hotels in Lake District (Expedia)
Luxury Hotel: Gilpin Hotel & Lake House offers luxury spa experiences in a tranquil setting.
Budget Hotel: YHA Ambleside provides affordable stays for outdoor travelers.
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ L’Enclume for fine dining
✅ The Drunken Duck Inn for local flavors
✅ Chesters by the River for casual meals
10. Brighton
Brighton is a vibrant seaside city known for its relaxed atmosphere, creative culture, and iconic pier. It is popular with couples, families, and solo travelers alike. Brighton’s beach, colorful lanes, and lively nightlife make it one of the most fun places to visit in the United Kingdom and definitely among the best places to visit in United Kingdom.
Things to Do in Brighton
✅ Walk along Brighton Pier
✅ Explore The Lanes shopping area
✅ Relax on the beach
✅ Visit the Royal Pavilion
✅ Enjoy nightlife and live music
Best Hotels in Brighton (Expedia)
Luxury Hotel: Hotel du Vin Brighton offers boutique luxury near the seafront. Budget Hotel: ibis Brighton City Centre provides affordable, central accommodation. Expedia hotel search link: https://www.expedia.com/Brighton-Hotels.d4634.Travel-Guide-Hotels
Best Places to Eat Near Hotels
✅ The Salt Room for seafood
✅ Food for Friends for vegetarian dishes
✅ Terre à Terre for creative dining
Best Time to Visit United Kingdom
The United Kingdom can be visited year-round, but the best time depends on your travel style. Late spring to early autumn offers mild weather, longer daylight hours, and vibrant festivals. Summer is the peak season, especially in cities and coastal areas, with warmer temperatures and higher prices. Autumn brings beautiful colors and fewer crowds, while winter is quieter and festive, especially around Christmas markets. Shoulder seasons are ideal for budget travelers who want fewer tourists and better hotel deals.
Budget vs Luxury Travel in United Kingdom
The UK caters well to both budget and luxury travelers. Budget travel is possible through affordable hotels, hostels, public transport, and free attractions like museums. Street food, casual pubs, and supermarkets help keep food costs down. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, can enjoy historic five-star hotels, fine dining, private tours, and premium train experiences. The variety of accommodation styles makes it easy to customize your trip.
Travel Tips for Visiting United Kingdom
✅ Carry a contactless card or mobile payment for transport and shopping
✅ Book trains in advance to save money
✅ Respect local queues and personal space
✅ Weather can change quickly, so pack layers
✅ Tipping is appreciated but not always expected
How to Get Around United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has an excellent transport network. Trains connect major cities quickly and comfortably, while buses and coaches offer budget options. Cities are very walkable, and public transport is reliable. Renting a car is ideal for countryside areas like the Lake District or Wales. Cycling is also popular in many cities and rural regions.
The United Kingdom is a destination that truly has it all. From historic cities and royal landmarks to stunning landscapes and vibrant modern culture, it offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you are traveling as a family, a couple, solo, or in luxury style, the UK welcomes you with diversity, history, and charm. Start planning your journey today and explore the best places to visit in United Kingdom, discover unforgettable things to do, and find the best hotels in the United Kingdom through Expedia for a trip you will always remember.
