What Other Cities Besides London Would You Recommend Me to Visit in the UK?: A Complete Guide

When planning a vacation to the UK, London is usually one of the first cities that pops into people’s heads. The capital city provides its visitors with a lot of things to do – from visiting iconic landmarks, historic palaces and great museums, going shopping, visiting theatres or eating at great restaurants. The UK is not only about London though. There are many other options of travelling around cities in Scotland, in the north part of the country as well as in England and Wales. If you ask yourself what cities you should consider when planning your vacation, there are some that definitely worth your attention. Planning a visit to Scotland’s biggest city, booking a Glasgow Taxi will become even more convenient.

1. Edinburgh: Discover Scotland's Historic Capital

One of the best places to visit in addition to London is Edinburgh, especially if you love historic and architectural sites and natural views. You will be amazed by Edinburgh Castle, located on a hill overlooking the Old Town area and offering incredible panoramic views of the capital of Scotland. The walk down the Royal Mile is definitely the experience that you should try, enjoying historical buildings, charming shops, narrow closes, and other interesting cultural attractions.

Besides its historical center, Edinburgh boasts great Georgian architecture in the New Town district, beautiful parks, great restaurants, and numerous cultural centers. In August, the city gets even more interesting due to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, one of the largest arts festivals in the world. For those who prefer more peaceful places, there is Arthur's Seat – the natural hill providing amazing views.

2. Manchester: Experience Music, Football, and Modern Culture

Manchester makes for a wonderful choice of location for the tourists that desire an exciting city experience that is rooted in history and current culture. Having been at the heart of the British Industrial Revolution, Manchester has managed to evolve into an exciting cultural hub and has retained some reminders of its past.

Manchester is renowned for its music scene. It has given birth to Britain's most influential bands and continues to be an important place for live music and night entertainment. Football fans will also be pleased as the city is home to two famous football teams.

A tourist will have the opportunity to visit museums, art galleries, independent cafes, shopping districts, and restaurants. The Northern Quarter will surely be of great interest with its creative atmosphere and independent shops. Manchester also functions as an ideal base from which one may visit other places in the north of England.

3. Liverpool: Explore Britain's Musical and Maritime Heritage

Another good choice to visit aside from London is Liverpool. This city has gained international recognition due to The Beatles, and music enthusiasts would be able to visit sites related to the iconic band. Apart from the connection that the city has with one music group, there are various spots where visitors can discover the city’s longstanding connection to live performances.

The waterfront is one more site that should not be missed by any visitor. The docks of the city have been converted into a lively place, which offers various museums, galleries, restaurants, and magnificent architecture. Among all, the Royal Albert Dock is a popular site for those tourists who want to spend time sightseeing and enjoy food.

Liverpool also has a maritime history that is worth discovering. Museums will tell you about the city’s contribution to world migration and trade, while the historical quarters will remind tourists about the importance of the port for the country’s development.

4. Glasgow: Enjoy Art, Architecture, and Scottish Hospitality

Glasgow is another destination in Scotland and a good option for visitors wishing to visit a lively city that is a creative place in Scotland. Glasgow is known for its Victorian architecture and combines history with modern art, music, shops, and restaurants.

Among the places to visit in Glasgow, there are many cultural attractions, such as the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. This museum contains many works of art, history, and natural history. Another interesting attraction in Glasgow is the Riverside Museum that is suitable for those who like transport and industrial history.

Those who like architecture should visit the buildings related to Charles Rennie Mackintosh – one of the designers in Scotland. There are also neighbourhoods in Glasgow, which offer independent cafés, restaurants, bars, galleries, and live music. Glasgow Chauffeur Hire can be considered by those who wish to travel in comfort between places to visit.

5. Bath: Step Back into Roman Britain

However, for those who like to relax a bit and go back in history, Bath is one of the most attractive cities in the United Kingdom. Situated in southwest England, Bath is known for its Roman Baths and impressive Georgian architecture. Bath's honey-coloured stone buildings create an exquisite look which is completely different from the bigger metropolitan cities in the United Kingdom.

The Roman Baths offer a unique insight into the history of ancient Britain, but also there are Bath Abbey and Royal Crescent that represent the city's top attractions. Thermal spa treatments inspired by the city's rich tradition of hot springs can also be enjoyed by the visitors.

It should be mentioned that Bath is especially suitable for people interested in architecture, history, spa treatments, and romantic trips.

6. Bristol: Discover a Creative and Waterfront City

Bristol is another place that you might consider visiting, especially if you like innovation, street art, maritime history, and alternative culture. The city is known for its innovative nature and is often linked with the street artist called Banksy, whose creations you can find at many locations there.

The harbourside area in Bristol is very popular for tourism, eating out, museums, and cultural events. In addition, Bristol has a good culinary tradition, from classic English food to international food and cafe.

One of the landmark features of Bristol is the Clifton Suspension Bridge, which is an excellent engineering creation crossing the Avon Gorge.

Also read: What Are the Safe Areas to Live in Glasgow City Centre or West End for a Female Professional?

7. Cardiff: Explore the Capital of Wales

If you wish to feel the essence of another nation within the UK, then Cardiff is your destination of choice. The Welsh capital city features many historical sites, as well as modern day activities such as entertainment, shopping and sports.

Among other sites, the Cardiff Castle must be mentioned as one of the key places in the city, while the Cardiff Bay offers a nice place to spend time visiting restaurants, cultural sites and enjoying the waterfront view. Cardiff is also great place for getting to know more about Welsh culture, including speaking the Welsh language.

The sports fan will also have something to enjoy in the city as well as the family with young children.

8. York: Experience Medieval England

York offers a fantastic opportunity for travelers that wish to explore the country’s medieval past. York is surrounded by old walls and includes many tourist sites like the famous York Minster, which is considered one of the best examples of a Gothic cathedral in all of Europe.

Its museums, pubs, independent boutiques, and walks will provide a great place to spend some time on a city break. The city has a long history including many periods such as Roman, Viking, medieval, and modern times.

Final Thoughts: Which UK City Should You Choose?

The choice of city to visit other than London will be determined by your preferences and interests. Edinburgh is a good place if you enjoy history and spectacular scenery, Manchester is the place to go for music and football lovers, Liverpool is recommended if you want to explore the city's rich culture and sea port, Glasgow is a mixture of art and bustling city life, Bath is elegant and has a long history, Bristol has a unique blend of creativity and waterfront sights, Cardiff is an introduction to Welsh culture, and York is a fascinating exploration of medieval England.

In your vacation tour around the United Kingdom, try not to confine yourself within London only, but visit one or two other cities mentioned above. This is due to Britain's efficient transportation network that makes it easy for visitors to travel between cities in one trip.