The United Kingdom, comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, is a top European tourist destination known for its varied landscapes and cultural heritage. Attractions range from well-preserved estates and castles to world-class museums and galleries.
Exploring the UK is easy due to its compact size. You can stay in major cities like London or Liverpool and travel to other regions by train, bus, or ferry. For example, from London, a 90-minute train ride takes you to Salisbury, and from there, it's a short trip to Stonehenge. Similarly, Edinburgh and Glasgow are just an hour apart by train.
Discover the best places to visit in the UK with our guide.
1. London: The UK's All-in-One Destination
London is a must-visit with countless attractions like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace. Don't miss the Changing of the Guard, the iconic Big Ben, the Parliament Buildings, and museums in South Kensington.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in London: Best Areas & Hotels
2. Edinburgh: Scotland's Capital
Edinburgh is famous for its historic buildings, including the Edinburgh Castle, and the Old Town's Royal Mile. Don't miss the Princes Street for shopping and the Royal Botanical Garden.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Edinburgh: Best Areas & Hotels
3. Roman-Era Bath
Bath is known for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture. Visit the Royal Crescent and the Thermae Bath Spa to experience the city's famous waters.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bath: Best Areas & Hotels
4. Ancient Stonehenge and Medieval Salisbury
Stonehenge is a prehistoric World Heritage Site. Nearby Salisbury offers a historic cathedral with an original Magna Carta.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Salisbury
5. Royal Windsor
Windsor is home to Windsor Castle and attractions like Legoland Windsor and Royal Ascot.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Windsor
6. Idyllic England: The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds are known for their picturesque villages and landscapes. Explore the area's trails, including the Cotswold Way.
7. The Magical Lake District
The Lake District is famous for its scenery and association with Beatrix Potter. Enjoy hiking, boating, and the Lake District National Park.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in the Lake District
8. Medieval York and its Minster
York is known for its cathedral, York Minster, and historic streets like The Shambles. Visit the National Railway Museum for a glimpse into the city's rail history.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in York
9. The University Towns of Cambridge & Oxford
Cambridge and Oxford are famous for their historic universities and rivalry. Enjoy the architecture, take a punt on the river, and explore the town centers.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Oxford: Best Areas & Hotels
10. England's Pilgrimage City: Canterbury
Canterbury is home to the Canterbury Cathedral and historic timber-framed buildings. Visit the Canterbury Roman Museum for ancient artifacts.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Canterbury
11. Loch Ness and Inverness
Loch Ness is known for its beauty and legends. Visit Urquhart Castle and the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition. Inverness offers attractions like the Culloden Battlefield.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Inverness
12. Northern Ireland's Giant's Causeway
The Giant's Causeway is a natural wonder with unique basalt columns. Visit the visitor center to learn about its formation and legends.
13. Liverpool: Home of The Beatles
Liverpool is famous for The Beatles and cultural attractions like The Beatles Story and the Cavern Club. Enjoy the city's historic buildings and museums.
14. Manchester: England's Football Mad City
Manchester is known for football, with clubs like Manchester United and Manchester City. Visit the National Football Museum and explore the city's cultural scene.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Manchester: Best Areas & Hotels
15. Cardiff: The Capital of Wales
Cardiff offers attractions like Cardiff Castle, Victorian shopping arcades, and Cardiff Bay's dining and cultural venues.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Cardiff
16. The Channel Islands
The Channel Islands offer seaside towns, castles, and outdoor adventures. Accessible by ferry or flight, they're a picturesque escape.
17. Glasgow & Loch Lomond
Glasgow offers cultural attractions and proximity to Loch Lomond, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the Trossachs' countryside.
18. Snowdonia: Wales' Biggest Mountains
Snowdonia National Park in Wales offers stunning scenery and Mount Snowdon, the UK's second largest national park, perfect for adventurers and casual visitors alike.
