13 Best Places In The UK To Visit

There are so many beautiful towns, tranquil tiny villages, and dynamic cities to visit in the United Kingdom! Yeah, I know I'm biased (I'm a Brit), but there's so much to see on our lovely islands. There is an extraordinary range of places to explore, from sunny areas in the south of England to old settlements that have stood for almost a thousand years.

This is why I've compiled a list of some of the top towns, cities, and villages to visit in the United Kingdom. It doesn't matter if you're visiting the UK for the first time or if you reside here... Below, I'm almost positive there'll be a new area you haven't seen yet.

Below are some of the top sites to visit in the United Kingdom.

1.) Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital city, is definitely one of the best destinations to visit in the United Kingdom.

It boasts a unique blend of old and new, particularly between the Royal Mile and the New Town around George Street, as well as the warm Scottish hospitality (which I miss from living in the city).

There's so much to see and do in Edinburgh that you'll need at least three days to see it all.

If you only have a limited amount of time, make sure you walk the Royal Mile, climb Arthur's Seat, tour Edinburgh Castle, and sample some haggis! It's a traditional Scottish dish.

2.) The Lake District

The Lake District, which is officially the United Kingdom's newest UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best spots in the country to unwind for a few days. All while taking in Northern England's breathtaking splendor!

The name gives it away... there are several lakes to see. Each lake, though, is unique. Windermere is undoubtedly the most well-known, but Ullswater is my personal favorite.

3.) Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland, and without a doubt one of the greatest in the United Kingdom. Especially if you're planning a road trip!

I just returned from a three-week road trip through Scotland, and wow. Some of the most beautiful picturesque drives I've ever experienced in my 8 years of travel. Scotland's road trips are on par with those in Iceland, New Zealand, and Australia. Here are all of my Scotland road trip guides.

Consider amazing climbs, white dunes, plenty of open space, castles, history, and plenty of fresh air.

Loch Ness may be Scotland's most famous loch (home to the legendary Nessie), but it's far from the only one. One of my favorite aspects of Scotland was the abundance of fantastic places to camp or eat lunch by the lochs!

4.) Brighton

With its buzzing alternative lifestyle and amazing nightlife, it's arguably one of the most fun places to visit in the UK! When you visit, don't forget to go shopping in the lanes or eat fish and chips on the pier.

The Seven Sisters cliffs are also nearby, so if you're on a road trip or want to see a variety of places, this is a must-see. One of the best sites to visit in the UK, and one of the most photographed!

5.) South Downs

The South Downs is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the United Kingdom, and it is stunning.

This is a great, nature-filled UK weekend break, with endless green landscapes, rolling hills, and stunning views. There's plenty to do in the South Downs, from hiking to walking llamas, foraging to kayaking... you'll never be bored. The South Downs are a personal favorite and a must-see destination in the United Kingdom.

6.) Bath

Bath is another city on my UK bucket list, and it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the country. It's a lovely spot to come during the holidays because the Christmas markets are spectacular! The thermal baths, though, are unquestionably the nicest thing about Bath... I can't wait to see these places someday!

7.) Windsor

Windsor, the home of Queen Elizabeth, is one of the most beautiful towns in the United Kingdom. It's fortunate for me that it's close to my family's house!

When I last visited, I took my father on a summer day trip, and we had a blast. We started the day with brunch and prosecco on the steam train, then spent the rest of the day roaming about the ancient town and relaxing on the Thames riverfront. It's pure ecstasy.

While you're there, try some homemade fudge at the Fudge Kitchen on the High Street and take a long stroll through Windsor Great Park. You may even watch a show at the theatre in the evening if you're making a full day of it.

8.) Cambridge

Cambridge, home to the world-famous university, is a fantastic day travel destination in the United Kingdom. You'll find lots to do in this culturally rich UK city, from staring up at the gorgeous buildings to punting down the river.

9.) Swansea

Swansea is without a doubt one of my favorite places in Wales to visit. From Swansea Bay to The Mumbles, and all the way around the Gower Peninsula... Everything appeals to me. If you enjoy a seaside town with a lot of natural beauty, this is a terrific destination to visit in the UK. It won't be long before I'm back in Swansea!

10.) Peak District

The Peak District is one of the best destinations in the UK to spend a weekend with your pals! Hire a cottage, pack a weekend bag (don't forget your walking boots and sportswear), hop in the car, and prepare for the best weekend getaway ever! You'll be able to walk for hours, rent bikes, and cycle across the wide landscapes while taking beautiful photographs. Furthermore, the UK's first National Park is home to three dark sky reserves, so get ready to stargaze with your besties.

11.) Cornwall

Cornwall, on England's south coast, is without a doubt one of the most popular destinations for a domestic vacation. Cornwall is teeming with tourists in the summer, who are drawn to the gorgeous coastline pathways, sandy beaches, and seaside living. In the summer, Cornwall is a great spot to visit on a UK road trip or with a camper van, and it's also a great place to try surfing!

12.) Bristol

Bristol is a great weekend destination in the United Kingdom. During the International Balloon Fiesta, I'd love to go! It's also a great area to go shopping and have a fun night out. It's also a city brimming with innovation, making it an ideal destination for fans of modern art!

13.) The Orkney Islands

The Orkney Islands are home to a diverse range of species, making them one of the greatest destinations in the UK to visit if you enjoy nature! Puffins, seals, and whales... they're all here! If you're lucky, you might be able to see the Northern Lights.