If you’re planning your itinerary for an upcoming trip to the UK, you’ll want to pick a few destinations to explore. Planning ahead can give you an idea of how many days/nights you should spend at each place.
There are many iconic places to visit in the UK, and for good reason. There’s much to explore beyond London. From castles to cobblestone streets to half-timbered houses and enchanting forests, there are some outright must-see destinations in the UK.
Keep reading for our top places to visit in the UK so you can plan your magical adventure.
Top Places to Visit In the UK
Whatever your goals are for traveling, we can’t recommend enough putting the United Kingdom on your list. The true definition of ‘small but mighty’, we’d say; don’t let the size of the island fool you!
It still packs a hefty punch, and with so many hidden gems scattered across the country, you might have to plan a part two to the trip to try and cover it all, or even return to visit your favorite spots!
And what better way to make the trip memorable than by booking a private jet charter so that you can travel in style and comfort? Here are the top places to visit in the UK:
1. Cornwall
One of the must-see destinations in the UK is Cornwall. If you truly want to connect with the UK’s past, Cornwall is rich with British history just waiting to be discovered!
The legendary tales of King Arthur don’t just have to be something you read about or see an adaptation of on TV anymore! You can actually visit the ruins of the old castles, specifically Tintagel Castle, which is supposedly the birthplace of King Arthur!
And if that isn’t interesting enough for you, the castle perched on a cliff feels like something straight out of a fairytale. And it comes with the most spectacular views! Fly into Newquay in your private jet, and feel like a king yourself.
2. Mayfair
Heading back to the capital, Mayfair is always the buzz all year around as it’s one of the more popular UK destinations. With new and upcoming locations always opening up, from food to photography, it is a great spot for everyone, no matter your interest!
For food lovers, you’ll be pleased to know that Mayfair offers all sorts of cultures and cuisines, whatever you’re in the mood for. And from Michelin-star restaurants to roadside stalls, you can either choose to have a catered dining experience or just stop to have a quick bite before you head off on your next adventures!
3. Edinburgh
One of the most iconic places to visit in the UK is Edinburgh. Another spot rich with history, Edinburgh is a location that has a past that dates back to even before the Romans.
Edinburgh Castle is not only archaic and ancient itself, but it sits upon an extinct volcano – Castle Rock – which is said to be about 700 million years old! How incredible would it be to witness the past in front of your own two eyes?
Aside from its incredible history, Edinburgh is also home to one of the biggest art festivals in the world, so you can be sure it is rich with culture and the arts as well.
And with that art scene comes an even more incredible food scene as well. From burgers to world-class gelato, you truly can find it all!
Did you know that Edinburgh is known to be one of the most haunted cities in Europe? If you want to learn about the history of one of the top places to visit in the UK and get a bit of a fright out of it as well, the Edinburgh Dungeons is a great spot to visit in order to learn in a spooky way!
4. Bath
Another iconic destination, Bath, has been getting visitors for well over 2000 years! Following the Roman footsteps, why not take a trip to the Roman baths and indulge in a luxurious spa session which will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated?
Considered to be the UK’s wellness capital, the entire city’s purpose is to help you relax! You might not be able to visit the original Roman baths, but the numerous spas scattered around the area more than make up for it.
You can really enjoy some quality me-time, the same way we suspect the Romans would have done, and from the very same springs, they would have bathed from too. Humans really haven’t changed much after all these years, have we?
Not only is Bath one of the top places to visit in the UK but did you know that it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site? It has held this prestigious title since 1987 thanks to its rich culture and history as well as cultural significance as well. Jet into Bristol airport, a short hop by road from this wonderful place.
5. The Lake District
Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions and iconic places to visit in the UK is the Lake District. It’s a destination that people come from far and wide to visit.
The Lake District is a must-visit at least once in your life. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, then this is the place for you. Oh, and it’s also where all the poets went to die, as told by Taylor Swift in ‘The Lakes” from her 9th studio album, folklore.
Home to some of the most picturesque and magical landscapes, it truly is the perfect getaway if you want to escape the everyday hustle and bustle of city life. With cozy little towns tucked away around every corner and home to England’s highest mountain – Scafell Pike – there are plenty of opportunities for hiking as well as exploring alike.
If you want to become one with nature, we can’t think of a better place to do just that than the Lake District.
6. Glasgow
Going to Edinburgh is definitely a crucial part of your UK tour, especially as the capital of Scotland, however, we think that your trip will truly remain incomplete if you don’t stop by Glasgow as well.
If you’re an avid architectural admirer, then Glasgow is the place for you. Famous for its contributions, the Glasgow School of Art is something we can’t recommend enough that you go and see in person, with shifts in style and design being traced as far back as the 18th century!
Also crowned by UNESCO, Glasgow is known as the City of Music and is a great place to discover your next favorite artist or band from emerging musicians to regular locals.
And with one of the most incredible nightlife scenes in the UK, it’s not only one of the top places to visit in the UK, it truly is a one-of-a-kind city.
7. Birmingham
It might not seem like the most obvious of destinations, but if you’re looking for an underrated food scene and want to look outside of London, then Birmingham is the place to be. You know when a location is crowned to be the UK’s ‘most exciting food destination’ then it’s going to be good.
To tantalize your tastebuds, choose from one of five Michelin-star restaurants, including Carters in Moseley, Grace and Savour located in Hampton Manor, and others.
Birmingham, so far, is the only other place other than London, to have that many in one city! Or, if you want to try something more local, we can guarantee that you’ll still be soiled for choice, especially with all the reviews coming in for independent restaurants!
In Closing
With all these top places to visit in the UK, you’re sure to get a bit of everything on your adventure. From relaxation to exploration, the UK is filled with magical places teeming with adventure. Happy planning and safe travels!
