Best British Cities and Towns

Steeped in history and royalty, the English capital is considered to be one of the most progressive and exciting cities in the world.

As well as being a leading botanical research center, these exquisite 18C gardens are home to over 30,000 of plant species.

Stretch 135m into the sky, this Ferris wheel features glass-enclosed pods and offers spectacular views over all of London.

Home to England's Crown Jewels, this 11C castle has served as a royal prison throughout its long and fascinating history.

Look for the City of London signs if you wish to explore the heart proper, but in any case you will fall in love with these streets.

Everyone will enjoy this glimpse into the magical world of Harry Potter, set at the studios where much of the films were made.

Along with the town of Eton, Windsor is one of the official residential towns of the royals and offers a wide variety of shops.

Dating to the 19C, the oldest research zoo in the world is home to nearly 800 animal species, and features a variety of enclosures.

A lavish 18C palace, the official London residence of the British royalty features galleries and superbly preserved decor.

The activities are endless in this popular large park, from swimming and horseback riding, to exploring the trails and picnicking.

While excelling at cutting-edge and interactive exhibits, this museum also exhibits the most basic science tenets in a superb manner.

Massive and stunning, the chalk cliffs of Dover can be walked to enjoy their majestic scenery, best viewed from the lighthouse.

Erected 5,000 years ago, the famed Stonehenge remains a mystery and might have been a burial site, a temple, or something else entirely.

Home to nearly 80 million items, this enormous museum is a treasure of fascinating natural history exhibits spanning several fields.

Put on a harness for this unique experience of the city, climbing over the rooftop of the O2 Arena for the best views of London.

Founted in 1603, this extensive park is both lively and tranquil, offering many paths, views of nearby landmarks, and ducks to feed.

Brighton is a delight with its eclectic blend of seaside relaxation, cultural activities, trendy restaurants, and homey cafes.

Adjacent to a historic manor, these impressive expansive gardens feature stunning flora, monuments, and amazing landscapes.

This marvelous walled city offers a wealth of history at every turn, with a beautiful cityscape laid out around its two rivers.

Rise early to explore as much as you can of this rich and fascinating historic center, roaming its streets and visiting the pubs.

Featuring comprehensive exhibits on British railway history, this museum houses numerous locomotives and strives to predict the future.

These 12C-14C walls are wonderfully intact, following the original Roman fortifications and boasting four unique gatehouses.

A breathtaking 13C Gothic cathedral, boasting a treasure trove of medieval stained glass and a wealth of architectural curios.

Completed in 1728, this Baroque English mansion is a magnificent residence embellished further by the equally grand gardens.

Surrounded by rolling green hills, the Lake District's second largest lake offers water sports, cycling, hiking, and even shopping.

An ancient market with as many as 25 butcher shops, this charming narrow-laned street is truly enjoyable to explore today.

The exhibition takes you through the Viking city of Jorvik as it existed in the 10C, based on ongoing archaeological finds.

Set in a 18C prison, this museum houses numerous historic collections allowing you to experience town and prison life during the 18C.

Built in 1755, this Georgian townhouse is an excellent example of York elegance, complete with furnishings, art, and rich decor.

Let your imagination roam as you explore the forests, where the legends of the famous Robin Hood come to life.

Nestled amidst spectacular nature, the mountains of this national park loom over the softer landscape of English moorlands.

As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is known for its rich history, idyllic setting, and spirited cultural life.

Primarily a research center, this botanic garden delights visitors with its diverse plant species, glasshouses, and meandering paths.

Edinburgh's beaches often boast lovely promenades, with pubs and arcades dotted along the way.

Known for its colonies of penguins, this zoo also boasts other special animals such as pandas, koalas, and chimpanzees.

Spend time in this medieval historic center and marvel at the richness of history, cultural variety, and modern activities.

Designed in 1604, this formal walled garden at Edzell Castle reflects the beauty of Renaissance landscaping.

Visited by Queen Victoria in 1866, this vista has amazing views of Loch Tummel, Schiehallion, and even the Glen Coe hills.

Dating to the 12C, this fortress complex is one of Scotland's highlights, housing the national regalia and several military exhibits.

Prepare for shopping, dining, and people-watching on this charming and lively street in the Historic Center.

Allow for plenty of time to walk this old town street that passes by unique landmarks, splendid architecture, shops, and cafes.

Located on the Blackford Hill since 1896, this observatory boasts one working telescope, beautiful copper domes, and excellent views.

Many volcanic eruptions conspired to create this rugged landscape abutting the sea, with sea birds seemingly having taken charge.

Set in the heart of the Trossachs region, the large loch is strikingly beautiful and offers seasonal excursions on a steamboat.

Launched in 1953, this royal yacht is now decommissioned after sailing over 1,000,000km, and offers a tour of its luxurious interior.

A vast museum exhibiting diverse collections, from history and culture, to technology and science, to natural history, and beyond.

Featuring a lovely garden in the center, this 18C square is hemmed with fabulous facades in a variety of architectural styles.

An impressive 16C courthouse, now home to a quaint museum of oral history, containing galleries, wax figures, and historic relics.

Said to be a favorite of Sir Walter Scott, this viewpoint offers a superb panorama over the River Tweed and the Scottish borders.

Lined with pastoral hamlets full of old-world charm, this 23km-long lock is blessed with striking scenery and is great for fishing.

Once coveted for its strategic locale, Scotland's northernmost city is a booming economic and cultural hub, full of Highland charm.

Explore the streets of this ancient city, known as the Highland capital, admiring architecture and enjoying some people-watching.

This museum offers a complete history of the Highlands, from geology and archaeology, to Jacobean artifacts and Scottish artwork.

This 19C cathedral shows off exceptional stained glass, stone and wooden carvings, and a lovely patterned wood ceiling.

A star-shaped 18C military fort located on a headland, now home to the Highlanders' Museum that exhibits various regimental curios.

Dating to the Bronze Age, this relic is a circular burial cairn designating three tombs, and blessed with peaceful nature around.

Come to visit Nessie, the famed Loch Ness Monster, take a boat along the loch, or head out to explore the surrounding woods and towns.

One of Scotland's many gorgeous sea lakes, Loch Broom is a blend of beauty, serenity, and mountanous landscape.

Whether you fish or not, the scenery along the shores of this lake is dramatic with its mountains sloping down to the banks.

Take a ride on the funicular railway from this popular ski resort, reaching the highest station for spectacular views of the area.

One of the largest towns in Scotland's Highlands, this busy town boasts museums, warm locals, and access to stunning nature.

Wander through this bustling town, enjoying the beautiful views and unique culture of the Highlands.

A hydraulic staircase-lock dating to the 19C, spanning 55m of the Caledonian Canal in a series of eight locks.

A museum tracing the history of the West Highland Scots, including exhibits of archaeology, natural history, ethnography, and more.

The pristine beach of Sanna Bay boasts stunning natural scenery and white sands, perfect for a stroll or a contemplative afternoon.

Home to a wide range of sea creatures ranging from sharks down to star fish, this aquarium promises fun for the whole family.

The largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is spirited and fun-loving with its strong maritime history still preserved in its cityscape.

Housed in a gem of modern architecture, this center is rich with scientific displays, interactive exhibits, and other attractions.

Admire the numerous landmarks in this historic center, interspersed with Victorian, Modernist, and many other architectural styles.

Held in a building designed partly for its stained glass, this eclectic collection also includes Chinese, Islamic, and Gothic art.

Centered around the Kibble Palace, these botanic gardens feature an arboretum, lush parkland, and beautiful glasshouses.

Designed in 1604, this formal walled garden at Edzell Castle reflects the beauty of Renaissance landscaping.

Visited by Queen Victoria in 1866, this vista has amazing views of Loch Tummel, Schiehallion, and even the Glen Coe hills.

Tracing the history of transport in Scotland, this museum exhibits historic vehicles, ship models, locomotives, engines, and more.

Housed in an exquisite Spanish Baroque palace, this museum hosts over 9,000 items spanning arts, natural history, and weaponry.

Designed by Mackintosh, this building houses the Center for Architecture and Design, displaying rotating exhibits on the subject.

Not only a school, this Mackintosh-designed institution houses one of the largest collections of Mackintosh works in the world.

Set in the heart of the Trossachs region, the large loch is strikingly beautiful and offers seasonal excursions on a steamboat.

Lined with pastoral hamlets full of old-world charm, this 23km-long lock is blessed with striking scenery and is great for fishing.

Book a tour or explore independently the various architectural gems designed or inspired by the famed Mackintosh.

A 13C cathedral blending several architectural styles, yet retaining a lovely Gothic presence and an array of ornamentation.

Embodying the architectural style associated with the famed Charles Mackintosh, this reconstruction of his house is a gem.

A 19C cemetery dotted with beautiful stones and monuments, the Necropolis is known for its peaceful atmosphere and lovely scenery.

Surrounding the Loch Lomond and countless other lakes, this national park boasts majestic wild mountains and beautiful forests.

Surrounded by rolling green hills, the Lake District's second largest lake offers water sports, cycling, hiking, and even shopping.

Once an industrial hub, this city has developed a strong cultural core, boasting museums, music venues, galleries, and nightlife.

Head out to explore the bustling center day or night, enjoying the landmarks or immersing in the atmosphere of this vibrant hotspot.

The heritage park preserves parts of industrial Manchester, maintaining the canals, restoring offices, and refurbishing warehouses.

This uber-modern sloping, glass structure was originally an art museum and now holds the popular National Football Museum.

This 19C town hall is a superb example of neo-Gothic, boasting a series of fine frescoes depicting the history of the city.

One of UK's most popular seaside resorts, this town offers stretching beach, exciting promenade, and a few historic sites.

Nestled amidst spectacular nature, the mountains of this national park loom over the softer landscape of English moorlands.

Trace the city's industrial past in this wonderful museum, exhibiting collections of aircrafts, locomotives, computers, and more.

Set elegantly on the waterfront, the gallery features modern art, and the two theaters are popular with both locals and visitors.

Home to over 50,000 items primarily by modern artists, this gallery exhibits watercolors, sculptures, wallpapers, and textiles.

Spanning three buildings, this gallery's collection includes notable masterpieces from almost all European schools.

This beautiful country house boasts a collection of fine paintings, portraits, and woodwork, as well as a renowned garden.

Surrounded by rolling green hills, the Lake District's second largest lake offers water sports, cycling, hiking, and even shopping.

Boasting Perpendicular Gothic architecture, this cathedral hosts medieval artifacts, fine furnishings, and impressive bells.

This neo-Gothic red sandstone library holds over 1 million items, and features a wonderfully ornate Reading Room.

Meandering along the border between England and Wales, this river offers visitors activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

Exploring these caves involves a boat ride through a tunnel, and eventually gazing 182m down the Bottomless Pit.

The port city of Bristol always amazes with its history, culture, and its round-the-clock spirit of activity.

Opened in 1836, this Victorian complex is the world's oldest provincial zoo and houses a diverse variety of animals.

Adults will be as impressed as children at this immense science center full of creative exhibits, interactive displays, and films.

Start your wanderings in the historic center among the busy and friendly locals, historic buildings, lively pubs, and fine museums.

Enjoy shopping, dining, and sightseeing in this lively Bristol suburb, resplendent with its Georgian architecture and upbeat air.

Erected 5,000 years ago, the famed Stonehenge remains a mystery and might have been a burial site, a temple, or something else entirely.

Established in the 18C, this wonderful estate boasts a fully appointed Palladian mansion and exceptional gardens.

This 15C church is notable for its tower, monuments, and gardens, as well as the regional archives housed within.

Opened in 1864, the bridge spanning the Avon Gorge is a picturesque sight and offers an invigorating walk, as well as grand views.

Catch a show of the famed Old Vic company, housed in this 18C theater said to be England's oldest continuously operating theater.

This Victorian Gothic Revival mansion is not to be missed, with 50,000 items currently catalogued within its extravagant interior.

The second largest city in Wales, the coastal Swansea features a number of beaches as well as historic buildings and castles.

Steeped in history and royalty, the English capital is considered to be one of the most progressive and exciting cities in the world.

As well as being a leading botanical research center, these exquisite 18C gardens are home to over 30,000 of plant species.

Stretch 135m into the sky, this Ferris wheel features glass-enclosed pods and offers spectacular views over all of London.

Home to England's Crown Jewels, this 11C castle has served as a royal prison throughout its long and fascinating history.

Look for the City of London signs if you wish to explore the heart proper, but in any case you will fall in love with these streets.

Everyone will enjoy this glimpse into the magical world of Harry Potter, set at the studios where much of the films were made.

Along with the town of Eton, Windsor is one of the official residential towns of the royals and offers a wide variety of shops.

Dating to the 19C, the oldest research zoo in the world is home to nearly 800 animal species, and features a variety of enclosures.

A lavish 18C palace, the official London residence of the British royalty features galleries and superbly preserved decor.

The activities are endless in this popular large park, from swimming and horseback riding, to exploring the trails and picnicking.

Massive and stunning, the chalk cliffs of Dover can be walked to enjoy their majestic scenery, best viewed from the lighthouse.

Erected 5,000 years ago, the famed Stonehenge remains a mystery and might have been a burial site, a temple, or something else entirely.