Sian Victoria © - Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool

Places to visit in England for a city break

If you need a city getaway to escape the stresses of daily life and are wondering what the best city breaks in the UK are, you’ve come to the right place. With 76 cities across the whole of the UK, there are so many fascinating places to visit and explore. But which ones are the best? Simply have a read of this post and see what takes your fancy from the list of places I’ve visited and recommend.

With so many cities across the United Kingdom, there’s no shortage of intriguing and rich history and culture to explore. Whether it’s the tourist capital London you wish to wander the streets of, or you fancy travelling up North to see the iconic attractions Scotland has to offer or the fascinating history of Bath, there are so many places to choose from.

There’s something on this list for whatever you desire. From visiting somewhere perfect for history lovers to somewhere renowned for its nightlife, simply hop on a train or get in the car for a UK road trip to visit any of these cities and make the most of your city getaway.

1. Birmingham

Sian Victoria © - Library of Birmingham rooftop, Symphony Hall

Sian Victoria © - The River Fountain, Victoria Square, Birmingham

Sian Victoria © - Grand Central, New Street Station, Birmingham

The second biggest city in the United Kingdom, Birmingham has been recognised as a top city thanks to its rich cultural, recreational, and historical scene. Boasting more canals than Venice, the city couldn’t be more interesting. Home to a huge, vibrant student population, the city is always buzzing. With 4 universities dotted around Birmingham, you're always bound to see a student studying or out about the town on your visit.

In terms of history, Birmingham is certainly intriguing. Starting as a small Saxon settlement, Birmingham’s part in the Industrial Revolution helped give it the iconic status it has today as the home of the Peaky Blinders. The city flourished and grew – you can discover more about this history in many of Birmingham’s museums or even visit the historical towns near Birmingham for a closer look at the region.

A trip to this city in the West Midlands is sure to be packed with fun and fascinating activities since there are many leisure things to do in Birmingham. Explore the city's colourful cultural scene, with Chinatown right in the city centre just a short walk from New Street Station. Boasting traditional dining experiences, beautiful Chinese decorations and buzzing activity, the Chinese Quarter is a bustling oasis, perfect to see the city's Chinese influences.

After exploring Chinatown, why not head over to the Gay Village on the Southside? Perfect if you fancy seeing what Birmingham’s nightlife and cocktail bars are like, this neighbourhood never sleeps and is sure to give you fun entertainment all through the night.

There are many reasons to visit Birmingham so if the city sounds like somewhere you'd be keen to visit, have a read of some of these top-rated things to see and do in Birmingham if you come to this great city on your next getaway:

Discover the city’s history and talent at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery or book a tour of Birmingham to discover the city’s hidden gems and heritage.
Catch a show or play at The Hippodrome or the Repertory Theatre.
Have a stroll in the beautiful Botanical Gardens.
There are so many shopping places in Birmingham for all budgets so why not go on a shopping spree at the iconic Bullring and Grand Central shopping centre.
See the incredible 18th-century St. Philips Cathedral if you’re a history buff.
When it comes to booking attractions in Birmingham you’ll be spoilt for choice there’s plenty of spa days, afternoon tea places, theatres and adventure venues such as the Bear Grylls Adventure.

2. London

Sian Victoria © - Crossrail Place Roof Garden, Canary Wharf, London

Sian Victoria © - St. Paul’s Cathedral & Millennium Bridge, Tate Modern, London

Sian Victoria © - St. Paul’s Cathedral & Millennium Bridge, London

A hot-spot city for tourists far and wide, London is the UK’s all-in-one destination. London has everything from world-renowned landmarks and the West End to an iconic shopping scene and historical sights. Recognised as the UK’s crown jewel, the buzzing atmosphere, historical landmarks, and cultural scene has drawn in visitors across the globe for many decades.

If you haven’t visited London before, it’s certainly a must-visit if you can manage to get down there for a city break. Whether you go on a sightseeing tour of London on foot or choose one of the many bus or river tours across the city, a visit to London isn’t complete without admiring the landmarks and seeing where the infamous monarchy has been housed for hundreds of years.

Not only is London recognised for its incredible sights, but it’s also proficient in its nightlife and recreational scene. Home to hundreds of department stores and high-end designer shops on Bond Street, such as the iconic Harrods and Hamleys, there’s no better way to catch up on the latest fashion trends than strolling the luxury streets of the city.

After you’ve explored the attractions, why not partake in the city’s popular nightlife? Whether you're paying a visit to Shoreditch, Soho or Camden Town, London is teeming with top-notch entertainment. Enjoy late-night bars, buzzing clubs and music venues that are sure to make your city getaway even more exciting. And if you’re looking for somewhere to stay, check out my H10 London Waterloo hotel review.

If you’re planning a break away to this world-renowned destination, here are some of the many things to do in London:

Buckingham Palace, home to the iconic Royal Family, as well as Big Ben, Tower Bridge, the medieval Tower of London, and the 18th century St. Pauls Cathedral. These are some of the many sightseeing places to check out.
Visiting with family? See the sights from a birds-eye view on the London Eye, test your fears at the London Dungeons or see your favourite celebrities at Madame Tussauds, climb the o2 or experience the view from the Shard – all considered the best attractions to book in London.
See the history of the city at The British Museum.
Walk through the vibrant neighbourhood of Camden to see the creative talent of locals at the buzzing markets – a place which Amy Winehouse famously enjoyed and called home.
Stroll around Covent Garden and do some shopping before catching a musical at one of the 40 West End theatres.

3. Liverpool

Sian Victoria © - Royal Liver Building, Parish Church Courtyard, Liverpool

Sian Victoria © - St George's Hall Liverpool

Sian Victoria © - Royal Liver Building, Liverpool

Travelling further up north, Liverpool is a fascinating city that attracts all ages. Famous for being home to the iconic group The Beatles, among other incredible musicians and personalities such as Cilla Black, as well as boasting a rich cultural and historical scene, Liverpool has it all.

Historically acting as a major port where ships docked throughout the centuries, the infamous Titanic ship even had links here. The docks are recognised for dominating 19th-century global trade, which can even be seen today if you peruse the Royal Albert Dock. Overlooking the waterfront, the dock is a perfect leisure and lifestyle destination. You’ll also find many great restaurants here, especially when it comes to vegan food places in Liverpool.

Not surprisingly, Liverpool’s music scene is nothing short of buzzing there are even city tours of Liverpool themed upon it. With a vibrant pop and rock scene, choose from an array of music venues where you can enjoy some of the best local talents. The Beatles are undoubtedly the shining star of the city, with odes to the world-renowned band being present throughout the entirety of Liverpool.

From the iconic Cavern Club where the band performed in their early years, to the bronze statues of the band on the waterfront, there are so many things to see and do in Liverpool.

If you fancy visiting the bustling city, there are plenty of sights to see and attractions to book in Liverpool:

See the history of the iconic Beatles by following a Beatles tour, or by strolling through the city yourself. Catch an up-and-coming artist at the underground Cavern Club, before seeing memorabilia from the infamous band, seeing the birthplace of the members, and stopping off at Penny Lane and Strawberry Field.
Delve into the city’s history at the Museum of Liverpool, the World Museum or the Maritime Museum if you want to discover the transatlantic past of the city.
See stunning Gothic architecture at Liverpool Cathedral and the city’s iconic Royal Liver Building, located near the Liverpool Atlantic Tower Hotel.

4. Bath

Sian Victoria © - Abbey in Bath, England

Located in the Southwest of England on the edge of The Cotswolds, Bath is home to some of the most beautiful countryside, history, and architecture in the entirety of England.

Perhaps Bath’s most notable attractions are its displays of beautiful historical architecture. Pay a visit to this serene city and stroll its cobbled streets to admire the array of elegant, Georgian-style of architecture thanks to the city's flourishment during the 18th century. On a sightseeing tour of Bath discover more of the city's history through its connection to the Romans. Still existing today, admire the 2000-year-old Roman Baths that were historically used as spas.

As well as boasting a variety of simply fascinating historical buildings and attractions, Bath is teeming with plenty of green space and unspoiled beauty. From expansive parks to national trust sites, visit the city on a summer's day and make the most of the natural scenery.

If this sounds like something that takes your fancy, have a read of my things to see and do in Bath, whether you're planning a getaway solo or with family and friends there’s bound to be something in this gorgeous part of England you’ll enjoy and appreciate:

See where the Romans once relaxed at the Romans Baths, and even take a dip for yourself at the Thermae Bath Spa. Or if you fancy something more daring experience a Microlight flight or river cruise, these are just a few of the many attractions to book in Bath.
Take in the unbeatable architecture at the medieval Bath Abbey, before admiring Pulteney Bridge.
Learn all about the city’s history and see talent from the past by popping into one of the many museums throughout the city, including the Museum of Bath Architecture, The Holbourne Museum and the Victoria Art Gallery.
Take in the beauty of Royal Victoria Park and Prior Park Landscape Gardens. Nearby the gardens you’ll find the Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel if you’re looking for somewhere to stay not too far from the city centre.

5. Brighton

Sian Victoria © - Brighton Beach Bandstand

Sian Victoria © - Brighton i360, and starling murmuration

Sian Victoria © - Royal Pavilion ice rink, Brighton

Recognised for being one of the most buzzing, fascinating, and modern cities in the UK, Brighton is the beating heart of Sussex. Far from your typical seaside resort, Brighton blends modern nightlife with rich culture, a diverse shopping, leisure and music scene and an iconic beach.

Beginning as an ancient fishing village, this vibrant city flourished following the development of the railways in the 19th century and has since then become a popular spot for those travelling from London, and now from far and wide. Now being associated with the nicknames the Gay Capital and London-by-the-sea, it's no wonder the city is a tourist hot-spot destination. For this reason, drag, brunch and sightseeing in Brighton are very popular making it a lively and very fun city to visit.

Boasting plenty of iconic landmarks, from its pier to the regency palace the Royal Pavilion, there are plenty of things to see and do in Brighton. See its iconic nightlife scene – considered by some to be the best in the UK – with a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, and award-winning bars and clubs, and see the infamous pebbled Brighton beach.

Fancy seeing why this city is so popular? Plan a city break to Brighton and make sure some of these activities are on your list:

Stroll Brighton Palace Pier, with a history dating back to the 19th century, before stepping back onto the beach and admiring the miles of idyllic sea.
Admire the 18th-century Royal Pavilion, used as a seaside resort for George, the Prince of Wales.
See the history of the city at the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, and entertain the little ones at Brighton Toy and Model Museum.
Get a birds-eye view of the city by booking the Brighton i360 observation tower and if you’re staying for a night or two check out the historic Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel.
This British seaside destination isn’t just a hot spot for summer, during winter at sunset you can be mesmerised by a beautiful starling murmuration display that flocks to the Pier from November to February. There’s also an ice rink to enjoy at the Royal Pavilion.

6. Bristol

Sian Victoria © - Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol

Sian Victoria © - Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Sian Victoria © - Bristol Cathedral, Collage Green

Located just a short distance from the city of Bath is Bristol, a jewel in the southeast of England sitting on the River Avon and teeming with fascinating heritage and a buzzing cultural and leisure scene.

With a rich maritime history, Bristol the home of street artist Banksy had been recognised for centuries – however, it was during the Industrial Revolution in the city that it flourished. Since then, Bristol has gained in popularity and is now considered one of the best cities in England.

Home to several iconic sights and attractions, including the Clifton Suspension Bridge and Bristol cathedral, Bristol's historical roots can be admired throughout the city, tracing back to the city's influence through the Maritimes.

Thanks to its young student population – due to the historical Bristol University – there’s always vibrant nightlife and activities to get up to here. For this reason, there are some amazing vegan food places in Bristol. Considered to be one of the most diverse yet incredible nightlife scenes throughout the UK, finish off a sightseeing tour of Bristol by popping down to some of the top-rated bars, pubs and clubs.

Here are just a few of the things to do and see in Bristol if you want to plan a city break in the vibrant city that brought you the TV show, Skins:

Walk across the infamous Victorian Clifton Suspension Bridge, marvel at the 12th-century Bristol Cathedral and admire the 18th-century Clifton Observatory.
Get a birds-eye view of the city by climbing the 108 steps of the historical Cabot Tower.
Discover Bristol’s rich history by stepping foot onto the Brunel’s SS Great Britain steamship turned museum.
Pop into the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery to satisfy your curiosities. And if you plan to stay overnight, consider the Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel located in the city centre in a grade II listed building with a historic past.

7. Oxford

Sian Victoria © - Hill views from Oxford Castle & Prison

Sian Victoria © - Christ Church College, Oxford

Sian Victoria © - Oxford University Museum of Natural History

Although this city may be most popular due to being home to one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Oxford, there are so many other fascinating things to do and see in this beautiful, historical city.

Home to some of the best displays of historical architecture in the UK, Oxford is simply bursting with ancient buildings and beautiful sights. With the city's history dating back to the 12th century, the buildings have been well preserved, with many reflecting the Gothic and Baroque architectural styles from the 17th and 18th centuries.

As well as boasting incredible history and architecture from its university to the entirety of the city, Oxford is home to some of the best museums in the UK, and one of the richest cultural scenes, too. Explore the vast array of arts and culture at one of the museums and art galleries, or by catching a show at one of the theatres.

Whether it’s booking a city tour of Oxford for some sightseeing you plan to do, or you fancy discovering the history and heritage of Oxford, have a read of some of the top-rated things to do in Oxford if you decide this is somewhere you'd be keen to explore:

See the fascinating university grounds, boasting an array of historical buildings including the 15th-century Bodleian Libraries and the Sheldonian Theatre. You might even be able to spot where Harry Potter was filmed.
Go on a tour of the Norman Oxford Castle and Prison and check out the views from the hill.
Explore the history of the city at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, the Ashmolean Museum, and the Pitt Rivers Museum.
Make the most of the city’s natural, scenic beauty by strolling through Oxford Botanic Garden.

8. Chester

Sian Victoria © - Eastgate Clock, Chester

Sian Victoria © - Eastgate street, views from clock, Chester

Sitting on River Dee in the county of Cheshire, Chester is a fascinating historical city home to stunning architecture, iconic landmarks and rich culture. Undoubtedly, one of the city's most recognisable features is the distinctive Tudor-style buildings, standing tall and catching your attention as you stroll through Chester’s cobbled streets.

Beginning as a Roman settlement in the first century AD, the city happens to be one of the oldest in the UK. Odes to Chester’s Roman heritage can still be perceived throughout the city today, being a main draw for tourism. From the well-preserved city walls to be discovered around the city to the historical Roman Amphitheatre which was at the time the largest in Britain, a visit to the city will transport you back in time.

As well as incredible historical sights scattered throughout the city, Chester doesn’t fall short in terms of its natural beauty, either. Due to its location on the River Dee, there are plenty of riverside walks for visitors to enjoy, as well as many parks and green spaces that showcase Chester’s beauty. If you are considering a visit, check out my Doubletree by Hilton Hotel & Spa Chester review.

Fancy seeing this renowned historical city for yourself? Check out the multitude of things to do in Chester if you plan a visit:

Stroll the Roman city walls, originally constructed as a defensive fortress and still existing today encompassing the city.
Take in the Medieval architecture of Chester Cathedral.
Indulge your curiosities at the Cheshire Military Museum and The Grosvenor Museum.
See one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Eastgate Clock, before paying a visit to the Chester Roman gardens to see authentic ruins and artefacts from centuries ago.

9. Manchester

Sian Victoria © - The Corn Exchange, Manchester

Sian Victoria © - Manchester Art Gallery

Considered the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Manchester is one of the most popular cities in the UK. Now an urban oasis of culture, heritage and leisure, the city has it all. Boasting world-renowned sports teams and stadiums, the iconic Trafford Centre shopping mall and more, it's no wonder Manchester draws in visitors from far and wide.

Thanks to its huge student population, the city is a multicultural haven. Whether it’s the Northern Quarter you want to visit, complete with trendy and bohemian bars, vintage shops and art, or Chinatown with its authentic restaurants – considered to be one of the largest outside of China – there’s so much to explore. Especially, if you want to eat your way around the vegan food places in Manchester.

Considered by some to be the “music capital” of the United Kingdom, the city has certainly influenced the music scene. Being the origin city of Oasis, The Smiths and more iconic artists, the city still creates incredible talent that can be enjoyed when popping down to one of their many music venues.

In terms of its history, there are several historical sites throughout the city that honour its past. Whether it’s the Medieval Manchester Cathedral or the variety of museums you’re keen to visit, you'll be able to discover why this city is so well-loved on a sightseeing city tour of Manchester.

If Manchester sounds like a city you'd enjoy exploring, make sure you try out some of the top-rated activities and sights with this list of things to do in Manchester:

Explore how the city became the UK’s first industrialised city at the Science and Industry Museum.
Take in Medieval architecture at Manchester Cathedral, before taking a tour of the iconic Etihad Football Stadium. If football isn’t your thing, there are plenty of experience days to book in Manchester to keep you entertained.
See the stunning 20th-century neo-Gothic John Rylands Library, and admire the world-renowned art at Manchester art gallery. Nearby you’ll also discover one of the newest and trendiest hotels in Manchester, the Hotel Brooklyn Manchester.

10. Sheffield

Sian Victoria © - Sheffield Botanical Gardens

Located further up north in South Yorkshire is the city of Sheffield, a place where natural beauty thrives and a sense of culture and heritage exists. Sitting on the River Sheaf, the city is encompassed by the Peak District National Park and couldn’t be more visually breathtaking.

Considered one of the UK’s greenest cities, Sheffield was founded as an Anglo-Saxon settlement back in the 12th century and has since become a place where natural countryside and an urban metropolis meet and thrive together. Perfect for if you enjoy outdoor activities such as climbing, hikes, or just a simple stroll, this city makes the most of its green space – with around 80 parks and 650 green spaces throughout.

The rich heritage of the city can be discovered through its number of historical sites, including Kelham Island. Historically being the place where the steel industry thrived, this area now exists as a creative, trendy oasis for independent eateries and businesses, as well as being home to museums honouring the industrial past.

Whether it’s one of the many museums or art galleries you’re keen to visit to discover the colourful heritage and talent Sheffield boasts, or you want to take the family on a day out in the Peak District, there are plenty of things to do in Sheffield.

Have a relaxing stroll around the beautiful 19th - century Sheffield Botanical Gardens.
Discover the history of Sheffield at the Kelham Island Museum and indulge in vegan food and great vibes at the Church – Temple of Fun owned by local frontman Oliver Sykes from the band Bring Me The Horizon.
See one of the largest glasshouses in the UK by visiting the Sheffield Winter Garden.

If you visit Sheffield, then heading up to nearby Leeds is a must, with there being some great things to do in Leeds that you may enjoy too.

To conclude

There we have it. A run-down of the best UK cities for you to visit on your next city break. Let me know what on this list takes your fancy and why. Whether you are keen to satisfy your curiosities and visit somewhere recognised for its rich heritage, or you fancy visiting somewhere famous for its nightlife or cultural scene, there's sure to be somewhere on this list for you.

I’ll continue to add more great British cities to this list every time I visit one that I highly recommend.

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