There Is More to Britain Than London
While London rightly commands attention, limiting your UK visit to the capital means missing some of the country's finest experiences. From Roman spas to industrial heritage, medieval streets to cutting-edge culture, these seven cities each offer something unique.
1. Bath
A UNESCO World Heritage city built around natural hot springs. The honey-coloured Georgian architecture is stunning, and the Roman Baths museum brings two thousand years of history to life. The modern Thermae Bath Spa lets you soak in naturally heated mineral water with rooftop views of the city. Bath is just 90 minutes from London by train.
2. York
A beautifully preserved medieval city in northern England. Walk the city walls, explore the narrow Shambles (one of Europe's best-preserved medieval streets), and visit York Minster — one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. The JORVIK Viking Centre brings York's Norse heritage to life. Two hours from London by train.
3. Manchester
A city reborn. Once the powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution, Manchester today pulses with creativity, sport, and nightlife. Visit the Science and Industry Museum, explore the Northern Quarter's independent shops and street art, or catch a match at Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium. The food scene is among the best outside London.
4. Liverpool
Famous as the birthplace of The Beatles, Liverpool's cultural credentials run far deeper. The Albert Dock houses Tate Liverpool and the International Slavery Museum. The city's two cathedrals — one Anglican, one Catholic — are architectural marvels. Liverpool's people are famously warm and welcoming.
5. Edinburgh
Scotland's capital deserves its own trip. The medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town combine to create one of Europe's most beautiful cityscapes. Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, and a world-class food and drink scene make this a must-visit. If you can time it with the August Festival, all the better.
6. Oxford
The city of dreaming spires. Oxford's university colleges are architectural treasures, and many are open to visitors. The Bodleian Library, the Ashmolean Museum (Britain's oldest public museum), and the covered market are all worth exploring. Punting on the River Cherwell is a quintessentially Oxford experience. Just one hour from London.
7. Bristol
A creative, independent-minded city in southwest England. Bristol gave the world Banksy, and street art adorns buildings throughout the city. The harbourside has been beautifully regenerated, the food scene is innovative and diverse, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge — Brunel's engineering masterpiece — is an iconic sight. Bristol is also the gateway to the Cotswolds.
Getting Between Cities
The UK's rail network makes city-hopping easy. Most journeys between major cities take one to three hours. Book advance tickets for the best fares — prices are significantly cheaper when booked two to four weeks ahead. A BritRail Pass can offer good value if you plan to visit multiple cities.
