The United Kingdom is a beautiful country with a long and storied history.
As such, there are no small number of amazing places to visit when traveling to the Sceptered Isle, and the challenge is not listing ten places to visit in the UK – it’s only listing 15 places.
That said, there are certain sights and landmarks that should be at the top of anyone’s bucket list.
And we’ve made it our business to narrow the playing field to the 15 most absolutely essential places to visit when in the UK.
Without further ado, then – here are the best places to visit in the UK.
1. London, England
London is, of course, the biggest tourist draw to the United Kingdom – and with good reason. Its streets are dripping with character and history, and you could spend a month here without running out of things to see.
Tourist Attractions
Top of the list ought to be Westminster where you will find the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey. Walk across Westminster Bridge and you’ll find the famous London Eye.
Lovers of the British monarchy should take a trip to Buckingham Palace. And history and art lovers should explore the British Museum and the National Gallery, both are free by the way.
You could also visit the Tower Bridge and the adjoining Tower of London, which has housed many a criminal over the years. A guided “Jack the Ripper” tour around Whitechapel is great for curious minds and Halloween travelers.
We could write a thousand posts on things to do in and around London, but take it from us – the list is long and endlessly fascinating.
2. Edinburgh, Scotland
The Scottish capital of Edinburgh isn’t merely a “Scottish London” – it’s a remarkable city in its own right, and well worth a visit if you manage to make it north of Hadrian’s Wall.
Top Attractions
Edinburgh positively overflows with amazing activities and places for tourists to enjoy. And some of these places are free including the National Museum of Scotland and the Royal Botanical Gardens.
The famous Edinburgh Castle – and its 3,000 years of history – requires a small entrance fee of £19.50, if you book online. Just make sure to plan ahead and go early to avoid the crowds.
Victoria Street in Old Town Edinburgh is also another favorite tourist destination. Lined with quirky shops and cute cafes, this street is said to be the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.
And don’t forget to join a free walking tour to discover all the secrets and myths of this magical city. There’s no end to the sights and sounds that visitors can enjoy when in the Scottish capital.
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FREE Edinburgh Walking Tours:
3. Bath, England
Roman Baths
This Somerset city is, London notwithstanding, one of the biggest tourist draws in the UK.
The reason for this is simple: it’s jaw-droppingly beautiful and houses some of the oldest extant Roman baths in the world.
In addition, the city has the UK’s only natural thermal hot springs. Keep in mind that tickets to explore the Roman Baths are £26 on weekdays and £28 on weekends.
Beyond the titular baths, Bath is a marvel in itself. It’s the only city in the UK designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in toto.
Jane Austen lived in the city for a long while, and you can explore her life at the Jane Austen Centre. It’s also the perfect place just to enjoy a stroll and take in the remarkable world heritage architecture.
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4. Stonehenge, England
Not far from Bath is this world-famous 5,000-year-old druidic stone circle. Stonehenge is one of the UK’s most enduring landmarks and an instantly recognizable English icon.
Visiting the modern-day complex in which Stonehenge is housed is not simply a case of walking up to the stone circle and getting a selfie. It’s an entire day out in of itself, with plenty to see and do.
There is, for instance, the “Stonehenge Exhibition”, which displays over 250 archeological treasures recovered from the vicinity of the stone circle.
There is also the chance to see the remains of a local man dating back 5,500 years. Plus, inspect a forensic reconstruction of what he looked like.
Is Stonehenge worth visiting? Absolutely yes! Just make sure to plan and get your tickets online to get 10% off. Stonehenge tickets for adults cost around £26.30 and £16.30 for children 5-17 years old.
Stonehenge is, without a doubt, one of the best places to visit in the UK.
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5. York, England
As one of the most charming cities in the whole of the UK, York should be on the list of anybody who visits the country.
York is the county capital of (you guessed it) the historic county of Yorkshire, famed for its long-running war with neighboring Lancaster. It’s also known for its medieval city walls, some of which date back to Roman times.
It’s renowned for its historic links with invading Viking raiders, and it has a center named “Jorvik” (the Viking name for York) dedicated to them.
In addition, no trip to York is complete without a stroll around The Shambles – a historic cobblestoned street and one of the finest preserved medieval districts in all of England.
The Shambles is another place that supposedly inspired Diagon Alley, the quirky street from the Harry Potter books and movies.
Lined with chocolate stores, cute cafes, and Harry Potter gift shops, the Shambles will evoke your senses.
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6. Liverpool, England
Any trip to the northwest of England wouldn’t be complete without visiting the port town of Liverpool – famed for, among other things, being the hometown of the Beatles.
And it’s the Fab Four that make for most of the tourism traffic to this fascinating city. Beatles fans can visit the Liverpool Beatles Museum, where they can immerse themselves in the band’s early journey and history.
Many Beatles aficionados also make the pilgrimage to the Cavern Club, where the Beatles played their first British gig. Though the original site is long gone, a replica pub sits not far from the site.
But there’s more to Liverpool than a single band. The Albert Docks make for a striking afternoon walk, and its unique modern cathedral is a striking departure from traditional Catholic architecture.
Liverpool is a lively city, which is also fun to walk around. Join a free walking tour to discover all of Liverpool’s hidden gems.
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FREE Liverpool Walking Tours:
7. Manchester, England
Planning a long visit to the UK? Then, you must come to Manchester. This city is a bustling and vibrant destination that offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s rich culture, take in some of its stunning architecture, or simply wander the streets, Manchester has something for you.
Enjoy a variety of unique attractions, including the Manchester Museum featuring interactive displays, the Manchester Art Gallery and its diverse collection of artworks, and the world-famous Manchester United Football Club.
If you are a book lover or Harry Potter fan, then you’ll love the John Rylands Library. Its spectacular architecture will remind you of neo-gothic castles and historical novels. Plus, the library definitely has Hogwarts vibes.
Delight in the city’s lively atmosphere and its variety of excellent dining and shopping opportunities. Take a chance to experience the lively city music scene and catch a show at one of the many live performance venues.
With a little bit of planning and some adventurous spirit, Manchester promises to deliver an unforgettable visit.
Lake District National Park
About 84 miles north of Manchester, you will find one of the best hiking destinations in the UK. At 912 mi², the Lake District is considered the largest national park in England.
If you like nature and outdoor activities, then the Lake District is a destination you cannot miss.
Take the express train from Manchester to Oxenholme Lake District, and you’ll be there in 1 hour and a few minutes.
There is plenty to explore and enjoy in the Lake District, so if you’re looking for a break from the city, this is definitely the place for you.
Plus, the surrounding towns are perfect for shopping with small markets, antiques, and quaint restaurants and cafes.
From the rolling pastures of lush green fields to the crystal clear lakes, this park truly encapsulates the beauty of natural England.
8. Cornwall, England
One of the most stunningly beautiful areas of the UK is, without a doubt, Cornwall. It’s a region of outstanding landscapes and seascapes. You could spend a month exploring its quaint fishing villages and beautiful beaches.
Uniquely for the UK, Cornwall has a subtropical climate. This is due to its proximity to the Gulf Stream, which runs around the Cornish Peninsula and makes for some of the most beautiful weather in the country.
It also ensures that Cornwall has some unique botanical features, like giant bamboo and naturally-grown pineapples.
Looking for picture-perfect beaches and tropical relaxation? Look no further than St. Ives, located on the coast of the Celtic Sea.
Known for its gorgeous sandy beaches, St. Ives is the perfect spot for a British seaside vacation. How to get there? Take the train from Paddington Station in London and you’ll arrive at St. Ives Station in a bit over 5 hours.
Also, one of the most striking features of Cornwall is the open-air Minack Theatre. Here you can enjoy a performance of Macbeth against the striking backdrop of the Atlantic!
9. Caernarfon, Wales
The country of Wales is often overlooked when considering a visit to the UK. This is a mistake, as it’s home to some of the most beautiful scenery and medieval buildings in the whole of the country.
One such place is Caernarfon. This stunning Welsh town is renowned for one thing more than anything else – its perfectly preserved 13th-century castle. The striking stone behemoth was commissioned by Edward I following his conquest of Wales and has stood there ever since.
In addition to Caernarfon Castle, there’s plenty to see and do around town. Take a boat cruise and explore the Menai Strait, discover quaint restaurants and cafes, and visit some local vineyards and orchards.
Caernarfon also enjoys a few pretty cycling routes that will easily occupy an afternoon or two.
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10. Northern Ireland
A trip that’s a little more logistically tricky – but still well worth doing – is Northern Ireland.
This lies across the Irish Sea, and so will necessitate a ferry or plane. But once across the water, you can enjoy the renowned beauty of the Emerald Isle.
The popular TV show Game of Thrones did much of its filming in this rustic idyll. And lots of fans still flock to this island to see its breathtaking film locations.
In the far north, you’ll also find the incredible Giant’s Causeway stone columns. Legend has it that it was built by an Irish giant named Finn McCool to cross the Irish Sea and face his rival.
Finally, a trip to Belfast will give you insights into this region’s history and culture. Don’t forget to join one of the many historical tours to discover Belfast, its mysteries, and legends.
Northern Ireland is definitely one of the top destinations to visit in the UK.
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FREE Belfast Walking Tours:
11. Glasgow, Scotland
Discover Glasgow – a vibrant city teeming with history, culture, and natural beauty.
It’s also one of the largest cities in Scotland with a population of 640,000 people.
With its awe-inspiring architecture, renowned art galleries and cathedrals, museums, eclectic shops, and outdoor markets, Glasgow offers a unique experience for all.
For those seeking a night out, its array of pubs, clubs, and restaurants makes it one of the best cities in the world for entertainment.
Explore the cobbled lanes and discreet alleys to get a true sense of Glasgow’s past, or take a stroll through its iconic landmarks to get a first-hand glimpse of its culture and heritage.
Whether it’s an adventure through the city or a peaceful day of sightseeing, Glasgow has something to offer everyone.
FREE Glasgow Walking Tours:
12. Cardiff, Wales
Cardiff has long been a popular tourist destination in the United Kingdom, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery.
From the stunning medieval castle that sits atop the city’s highest hill, to the beautiful coastline of Cardiff Bay and the nearby Gower peninsula, there’s something for everyone to explore in this amazing city.
Cardiff also provides plenty of green spaces, such as the city’s largest park, Bute Park, as well as plenty of cultural attractions and museums, like the National Museum Cardiff and the historic Cardiff Castle.
There’s a wide variety of eateries, from traditional Welsh pubs to gourmet restaurants offering craft beer.
Whether you’re looking for an exciting night out on the town or a peaceful stroll through the city’s historic streets, Cardiff will not disappoint.
13. Cheshire, England
If it’s the bucolic English countryside that you’re pining for, then you could do far worse than picturesque Cheshire, with its rolling green meadows and babbling brooks.
The county capital of Chester is well worth a visit for Roman history buffs. Explore the Roman amphitheater with all its history and amazing discoveries.
Also, don’t miss the Chester Cathedral, the Chester City Walls, and the captivating Chester Zoo, packed with exotic animals for kids and adults to enjoy.
And don’t forget to check out Jodrell Bank, a massive telescope complex. Here, guests can learn about the towering telescope used to peer into the depths of space, and even take a look themselves!
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14. Glencoe, Scotland
Just a road trip away from Glasgow, the small Highland village of Glencoe is an unforgettable destination.
Situated at the foot of the dramatic Glencoe Mountains, this area has been captivating visitors for centuries.
A walk along the shore of Loch Leven provides a tranquil experience of Scotland’s natural beauty.
For those looking for adventure, a hike up Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, is an unforgettable experience.
Glencoe also boasts Scotland’s oldest pub, the Clachaig Inn, full of tales of the locals and a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy some whisky.
Glencoe is an unforgettable destination for anyone looking to get lost in the stunning beauty of Scotland.
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15. Brighton, England
Only an hour from London, Brighton has long been renowned as one of England’s top holiday destinations – an escape from reality and a chance to experience the best of British culture.
From its stunning coastline and iconic Victorian architecture to its vibrant nightlife and eclectic mix of cuisines, Brighton offers something for everyone.
The city comes alive in the summer with a variety of outdoor events, festivals, and live concerts, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Exploring the city is easy, thanks to its convenient public transport system and wide selection of attractions, from its world-famous pier to its landmark Palace Pier.
Whether you’re looking to relax and take in the stunning seaside views, or explore the city’s vibrant art and culture, you’ll find it in Brighton.
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Visit the UK: Discover New Places
From medieval castles to magical corners and tropical beaches, the UK has it all!
Use this list to start planning your trip and visit these 15 amazing places in the United Kingdom. Just be aware that there’s so much to explore and discover in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, that one trip will never be enough.
Enjoy your journey!
Denisse Romero
Denisse is a global education and communications consultant, as well as the main person behind MacQuil. As an international mentor and frequent traveler, she enjoys sharing information to help anyone travel, study or work abroad.
Denisse holds a Master's in Management from GWU, a Master's in Education from Harvard University and an Executive Coaching Certificate from the University of Cambridge.
