UK CITIES YOU NEED TO VISIT

I have been so excited about posting this! I love travelling to different places in the UK but I haven't been to enough cities yet so I asked some bloggers on Twitter to collaborate with me and send me their favourite cities and why. I've included some of my own favourites too. Sorry if your city is missed off, these are just the favourites of some bloggers and myself.

As coronavirus restrictions continue to be lifted in the UK, we may as well make the most out of being able to visit the different parts of the country, as well as being safe of course. Be sure to keep up to date with government guidelines before planning anything.

I have listed the cities and the blogger who wrote about it next to them so be sure to check them out after this post! The ones with no name next to them are my favourites.

Cities you need to visit in the UK

1. London

I love visiting London, there is just always so much to do and I have a great time any time I go there. I feel like everyone in the UK should visit if they can because it's just such a cool place to be and really has everything. 

2. Lincoln - Sophia Patel

With 1000 years of history, Lincoln is a city with so much to explore. Situated in the East Midlands (140 miles north of London), Lincoln is a hidden gem in the centre of England. Did you know that Lincoln Cathedral was considered the world’s highest building for nearly 240 years, following the Pyramids of Giza? It also holds a copy of the Magna Carta – created to ensure the rights of the people 800 years ago. If you fancy escaping the busy life of major cities and want to explore the cobbled streets of old England, then Lincoln is the one for you.

Check out Sophia's post on a day out in Lincoln.

3. Bristol - Polly's Pad

Not only has Bristol ranked in the top 5 in the 'Rough guide' of the best cities in the world, it has also been voted the 'coolest' and 'kindest'. If that doesn't tempt you to visit, it is the birthplace of Banksy and his street art, as well as Brunel's Suspension Bridge and the SS Great Britain. Bristol is a famous foodie haven, as well as home to some great music venues. There are also a ton of cultural venues including museums, art galleries, and heritage sites.

Check out Polly's Bristol bucket list.

4. Bath

Bath is another one of my favourite cities, and it is very close to Bristol too! It's great for shopping, drinks and food. It's also so pretty and picturesque too with the Roman architecture. I would definitely recommend visiting Bath as soon as you can.

5. Bournemouth

Another one from me, and I know Bournemouth is classed as a town and not a city, but I felt that it was important to include. I have been living here on and off for over 3 years for university and it really has it all. There are so many things to do and amazing beaches and sites!

Related: Places you need to visit in Dorset.

6. Liverpool - Until Another Day 

In my opinion, Liverpool is one of the greatest city's in the world. I may be biased because I grew up here, however working in a city centre University has proved just how wonderful the city of Liverpool really is. Every Liverpool newcomer comments on how friendly and approachable the people are. People are so supportive and willing to help wherever they can. 

Not only are the people incredible, but the city has a plethora of delicious independent cafes and restaurants. Liverpool also has many astounding musicians and music venues, as well as regular music festivals to showcase the local talent. Liverpool has some very iconic and historic architecture, including The Liver Buildings, Albert Dock and St Georges Hall just to name a few. 

Check out these restaurants in Liverpool.

Liverpool is also filled with rich history and has its very own Museum of Liverpool dedicated to the city's culture. You will never be bored in Liverpool, there's always something to see and do. If you're looking for a vibrant city to visit on your next UK break, Liverpool is definitely the place to go.

Check out this post about Liverpool being the 3rd best city in the UK for music.

7. York - Skinned Cartree

York is a beautiful walled city in North Yorkshire with Roman roots and a Viking past. It has lot’s of history which you can see by walking down its cobbled streets. York is a popular place to visit by both tourists within the UK and internationally. There’s the beautiful York Minster that stands tall and proud. It’s one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world and one of the largest in Europe. 

You can talk a stroll down the shambles, the iconic street which is said to be the original Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter books, visit the Yorvik museum, where you get a taste of what life was like during Viking times. There are plenty of unique places to eat and drink. My favourite bars are those that have unique features, tucked away in old buildings that make you feel like you’ve gone back in time, such as Trembling Madness, Eagle & Child and the Shambles Tavern. 

Places we love to eat are Yak & Yeti - a Gurkha restaurant with the most amazing curried dishes, Little Italy - the best Italian I’ve visited and Red Chilli, an authentic Chinese restaurant with a massive menu so you can get ‘typical’ Chinese food or more unique dishes. Don’t forget to visit the iconic York Dungeons for a spooky adventure through time! 

You can check out reviews of many places around York here.

8. Brighton - Samanthia Blogs

I’m absolutely in love with the city and have been there 3 times already, I mostly visited because of vlogger Zoe Sugg seeing such a beautiful place I knew I had to visit. Brighton beach is my favourite place (it also has the i360 which is such an amazing experience!) and Brighton will forever hold a special place in my heart as it’s where I got engaged! Definitely worth going to the lanes if you plan a visit, so many cute and tucked away cafes, shops and more. 

9. Cambridge - Jess in your Ear

Cambridge is famous around the world, thanks to its university, but there are so many more reasons to visit. This pretty English city is packed full of cobbled streets, stunning architecture and the unique sport of “punting,” a way to travel along the river similar to the gondolas in Venice. Its location just an hour from London by train means that it’s easy for a daytrip from the capital but, if you can, stay for a few days to truly experience all this wonderful place has to offer. 

For food, head to Hot Numbers or Stir Bakery for the most Instagrammble, tasty brunch. Grab a coffee from the delicious Bould Brothers and make sure to treat yourself to an ice-cream from Jack’s Gelato. For dinner, try Scott’s All Day, De Luca Cucina, Salisbury Arms – or, if you’re looking for something really special, experience fine-dining at Restaurant 22. Finally, grab a pint at Thirsty or treat yourself to cocktails at the local’s secret 196.

10. Oxford - Rays of Adventure

Oxford is one of my favourite cities in the UK. The iconic circular building, the Radcliffe Camera, looks stunning on a sunny day. I love exploring all the university buildings in the city - it really feels like you're in a Harry Potter film set! Oxford has some great restaurants and museums as well, and walking along the river is lovely. Everyone should visit Oxford!

Check out how to spend a day in Oxford.

11. Leeds - Aimsy's Antics

Leeds is such a fab city and one of my favourites because it is my hometown. A true gem of the North of England, with great links to other nearby towns and cities. If you come to Leeds, the shops are where it is at, with a few different shopping centres (although Covid may have changed what shops are around now), ranging from modern to vintage Victorian arcades and The Corn Exchange that are a sight to behold! 

Not only do you have a mass of shops, but the places to eat and drink are fab with so much choice. You could easily spend a day shopping, and then carry this on with a few cocktails in the many bars. That is only the city centre! On the outskirts of Leeds, there are so many older buildings to explore, with Kirkstall Abbey one of the more famous sites. 

You can't forget the beautiful buildings of Harewood House and Temple Newsam too. If nature is what you like, then there is a few woodland walks and nature reserves to check out too. I love this city because it has so much to offer, whatever your interests. From the history of the city to nightlife, to the slower pace of life and getting back to nature. The best of all worlds!

12. Edinburgh - The Learner Mum

I just love Edinburgh. The fresh air stinging your face, the faint sound of bagpipes, the beautiful scenery, the friendly people, the talent on display - it all comes together create a wonderful atmosphere. The fact that a return journey anywhere in Edinburgh is somehow entirely uphill goes against the laws of physics, but tired legs are part of the Edinburgh experience. My favourite UK city by far.

13. Belfast - Grace Bee

Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, and an absolute must see for anyone looking to explore every corner or the UK. The city is full of history, unfortunately not all of it pleasant, but modern day Belfast is a safe and welcoming place for tourists. From the Titanic Museum, to Crumlin Road Gaol, and even day trips to the magical Giants Causeway, Belfast has tons of things for visitors to see.

If nightlife is your thing, then you are in for a treat as the city has plenty of great pubs, bars, and clubs. For a traditional Irish pub head to Kelly's Cellars, or the Duke of York, but if you're after a more upbeat place the 5 Points on Dublin road has live music 7 nights a week. 

Travellers on a budget won't be disappointed as Belfast is very affordable, especially when compared to other UK cities such as London or Edinburgh. There are also plenty of free things to do in the city such a free walking tours, the Ulster Museum, the Botanical Gardens, and self guided tours of the many murals.

14. Norwich - Anny's Adventures

Norwich is a relatively small city but that's what makes it so special. With a castle on a hill, cobbled streets, daily markets, a cathedral, and beautiful historic buildings, all while also being located in the countryside. The main area of the city is walkable and has a shopping street, a nightlife street, and the Norfolk Broads National Park running through it. But what makes the city so special is the small boutique independent cafes, hole in the wall bars, all while being close enough to the North Norfolk Coast for day trips to the beach.

15. Swansea - Cruise with Amber

If you take the effort to travel a little further west from Cardiff on the M4 motorway you will find the city of Swansea nestled in between the imposing Brecon Beacons and the many beautiful blue flag beaches of the Gower Peninsula. 

Swansea has developed over the past couple of decades; however it still feels as though it’s yet to reach its full potential. Easily accessible from the motorway, and with mainline rail services and Swansea can act as a hub for many attractions slightly further afield. Highlights on your visit should include Clyne Gardens, Swansea Market, Mumbles Pier, Langland Bay, The Dylan Thomas Centre and National Waterfront Museum.

16. Derby - Lovely Local Indie

Derby is a much underrated city. It’s easily accessible both by car and public transport. This makes it a perfect destination for meeting up with friends and family as restrictions ease and things start opening up. The Cathedral Quarter is full of beautiful architecture and independent shops.

For great brunches and amazing coffee, check out Bear (on Irongate or the Derbion mall) or the champagne breakfast at Seven at Pride Park. At weekends Bustler street food market comes alive with the very best street food vendors, and always a good selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options and a great atmosphere from live DJs. 

For a discerning night out, take the short taxi ride to Darley Abbey, a historic mill village and UNESCO World Heritage site which now hosts a range of upmarket yet casual bistros and bars. You can also be in the most stunning scenery of the Peak District in less than an hour.

Check out things to do in Derby.

17. Winchester - The Globe Trotter

Steeped in history, Winchester, England’s ancient capital and the former seat of King Alfred the Great is a fantastic city to visit. It is a pedestrian-friendly city and with its architectural marvels, Winchester knows how to charm its visitors. Some of the city's popular attractions are Winchester Cathedral, Winchester College (the oldest continuously running school in the UK), the City Museum, The Great Hall (home to the legendary Arthurian Round Table), St Mary’s Abbey, St John’s Hospital and the ruins of Wolvesey Castle. 

There are plenty of self-guided trails to explore, with the 'Winchester Tudor Trail' which takes in a number of Winchester’s popular landmarks from the Tudor time being one of the most popular one with visitors. The city also has a thriving shopping scene and some really great pubs and bars making it a great place to visit.

Check out things to do in Winchester. 

18. Salisbury

Last but not least, we have Salisbury. Salisbury is my home city and I grew up there and have lived near there for all my life except from when I'm living in Bournemouth. For this reason, I kind of have a love hate relationship with it but now that I'm older, I really think Salisbury is a nice place to visit. If you like history, it's definitely one for you as Salisbury Cathedral is home of the Magna Carta and it's close to Stonehenge. There are also a lot of hidden gems around the area and independent shops and cafes.

Thank you to all of these lovely bloggers for participating, make sure you check them all out. Again, apologies for not covering all cities, maybe I will make a part 2. 

What is your favourite city in the UK?