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When you want a little weekend getaway, visiting the capital city is one of the favourite places in the UK to go for an exciting break. Planning a city break can sometimes leave you in two minds on whether to stay on home soil or visit the number of beautiful locations on offer from European counterparts. City breaks in the UK always make people think of the popular destinations such as London, Manchester and Edinburgh, but this beautiful country has many more cities that have lots offer such as entertainment, history and events. Take a look at some of the best places to go for an interesting and stylish weekend break; one you’ll remember for many years to come.
London
The first destination on the list is the capital city, London. It’s probably one of those places everyone has visited or wants to visit at least once. The city is home to various well-known sites including Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, The Tower of London, The London Eye and tons of markets, theatres and shopping opportunities. London is a cosmopolitan location with lots of things to do for people of all ages. Travelling around the city is super easy with a fabulous network of trains, buses and the famous London Taxi. What’s more, if you love music, entertainment and exhibitions, this spot is the hub for an exciting and stimulating variety of events and shows; perfect for people you enjoy socialising and unleashing their sense of adventure. You can also check for cheap theatre tickets and events information before you travel to get the best deals, meaning you don’t have to compromise on your big city experiences.
Bristol
A city nestled between the borders of Somerset and Gloucestershire, and previously one of the UK’s most important ports. Bristol boasts artistic talents of natives such as Banksy and Wallace & Gromit’s producer Aardman Animation. If you love shopping, the city has plenty of retail therapy opportunities in areas such as Bristol Quarter, Cribbs Causeway and Cabot Circus. Bristol is now considered a student city, so if you’re young, this is a great destination with many bars and pubs for you to explore: if you’re into your craft beer, then Brew Dog is a must.
Brighton
If you like unique, quirky places, then Brighton is the place to be. The city is known for it’s colourful, thriving nightlife and is undoubtedly an open-minded location. This destination by the beach boasts a brilliant aquarium, fantastic shopping and delicious fish and chips. Brighton Pier alone is a significant attraction to the city, and being a short day trip from the bustle of London, it’s the perfect place for a short break.
York
This very historic city dating back to Roman, Viking and Anglo Saxon times is the perfect place to explore monuments, architecture and ancient relics. York Minster is a distinguishing feature in York’s skyline and is one of Europe’s greatest Gothic cathedrals. The vibrant location is full of unique boutique style shops and markets that are perfect for fashion lovers and people looking for something interesting.
Bath
Bath is oozing with British heritage and features the famous Roman Baths and Pump Rooms. This city has tons to explore so makes the perfect long weekend break. Interesting places include Bath Abbey, The Jane Austin Centre and the infamous No1 Royal Crescent that has appeared in numerous film backdrops. Bath is a bustling destination with lots of unique experiences to explore, plus if you love a spot of retail therapy, its distinctive shopping quarters mix modern retailers with beautiful independent boutiques and quaint cobbled shopping streets.
Glasgow
Scotland’s largest city is the bustling destination of Glasgow. The city hosts a variety of events such as art exhibitions, music and theatre shows. If you want to explore further afield, it provides the gateway to the western Highlands including Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, all within half an hour by car. It is certainly a lively location not to be missed.
Manchester
Manchester is the home of indie and pop culture with Oasis, Take That and The Stone Roses originating from this thriving musical city. The city has also seen extensive development over the past ten years, and it hosts some of the most fascinating and modern architecture in the UK. Top places to visit include Salford Quays, Bridgewater Hall, and the quirky exhibition hall Urbis. The city also offers lots of shopping, music and cultural experiences for you to do, making it an exciting place to visit.
The UK is filled with spectacular cities you should add to your travel list. Expanding your horizons and thinking outside the box will also give you a chance to delve into the culture and vibes of some of the most fascinating places outside of London.