Weekend Getaways: Pretty Cities To Visit In The UK

Upgrade your holidays with seaside stunners and city hotspots thanks to these gorgeous places in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Whether you’re going for a weekend trip with mates or a romantic vacation with your sweetie, we’ve searched far and wide to bring you the UK's top 12 pretty cities to visit in 2024.

Brighton

One of the most fun cities in the UK to visit, Brighton has rightfully gained a name for its vibrant streets, colourful shops and vast stretch of seemingly endless beach. When you're not getting your fill of quirky trinkets in The Lanes or traipsing around the Royal Pavilion? Sip on some locally-brewed craft beer at The North Laine Pub and Brewery or go to the pier for a seaside meal at Palm Court Restaurant.

Sea views and unconventional bars propel Brighton into the top UK city breaks for 2024.

Manchester

Searching for the most important UK cities to visit other than London? Once an industrial heavyweight, now a cool and thriving metropolis, Manchester is up there for Instagram-worthy destinations. It also has some of the best and most varied nightlife options around. For those of you after a knockout dinner in a stylish setting, Grand Pacific and Peter Street Kitchen are a must. However, if you're looking for something a little more intimate, hit up secret bar Project Halcyon Distillery for a speakeasy-inspired joint - that is, if you can find it.

A fun choice with a mega range of things to do, Manchester will have you coming back for more.

Liverpool

It may be famous for being the home of The Beatles, but Liverpool is often overlooked when it comes to the best UK city breaks by train. A crying shame if you ask us. Along with a beautiful waterfront and historic landmarks, it also houses some of the most eye-catching venues. You can expect everything from pretty in pink stunners, such as Papillon providing snap-worthy plates, to restaurants like The Florist that use actual trees as decoration.

Historical buildings and gorgeous bars bag Liverpool a spot on our list of incredible places to visit in the UK for a weekend.

Cardiff

The Welsh capital may be small in size, but that's what makes it a definite contender for the best places to visit in the UK for young adults. Once you've toured Cardiff Castle and the Victorian arcades, why not hit up some of the local haunts and get a proper feel for the city? A little birdy tells us that glamorous cocktail haunt The Dead Canary is a popular weekend spot, while Mowgli offers Indian street food, pretty trees and jungle gym-inspired interiors all in one place. It's also got a busy social calendar with live music venues such as retro village Brewhouse.

This Welsh beauty is perfect for a staycation.

Leeds

With a thriving social scene and an eclectic mix of historical and contemporary architecture, Leeds is a great choice for those of you searching for fun and cheap cities for UK holiday destinations. Live like the locals and spend an evening at Cuckoo, which dons exposed brickwork, animal decor and a picturesque rooftop terrace. If you're willing to splurge a little, pay Ibérica a visit for an unforgettable tapas feast, or get contemporary seafood delights at Blackhouse Grill.

Leeds is serving you a winning combo of fun and food.

London

Boasting some of the world's finest museums, art galleries and landmarks, it should come as no surprise that London makes our list of magical places to visit in the UK. But where to begin? Whether you fancy taking in the capital's most iconic sights from Sky Garden's gorgeous rooftop bar, want to dive into a bubbly ball pit at Ballie Ballerson or you're looking to immersive yourself into the Wild West at Moonshine Saloon - it doesn't disappoint - we've got just the thing.

From sky-high sips to basement bars, London has got something for everyone.

Bristol

It's not just the iconic suspension bridge that has earned Bristol a name as one of the UK's most beautiful cities. First-timers simply need to wander around the cobbled streets and pop into a few of the independent shops, pubs and restaurants - we're looking at you Riverstation - to fall in love with the enchanting spot. Banksy fanatics can also see a number of famous murals for free dotted around the area, stopping off at The Old Fish Market on the way.

Bristol's a haven for art lovers and indie shoppers.

Edinburgh

A popular choice for weekend getaways at any time of the year, Edinburgh is easily one of the best cities to visit in the UK for couples. Grab a steaming coffee and brunch at Le Monde before spending the day pottering around the cobbled streets and checking out the impressive castle. While you're there, be sure to swing by Chaophraya for Thai cuisine with one hell of a view, followed by cocktail bar The Raging Bull to try out its wide variety of signature espresso martinis - think gingerbread and banoffee pie-flavoured tipples.

With pretty places like this, it's no wonder why visiting here is one of the best UK city breaks for couples.

Glasgow

Wondering where to travel? Home to the Scottish Opera, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, lush botanical gardens and a goldmine of vintage shops, Glasgow is a cultural hub loaded with things to do. When you're not into pizza or sinking some pints at Shilling Brewing Co? Discover some of its lesser-known localities with one of these walks, finishing, of course, at a pub. 'Cus all the best adventures do.

Explore this diverse and extensive Scottish city.

Belfast

Just a hop across the Irish Sea, Belfast is a bustling city packed with character and award-winning restaurants. See for yourself with a trip to the The Tipsy Bird, where you'll be treated to drag brunches and cocktails. But that's not all. Northern Ireland's capital is famed for its traditional pubs like The Crown Liquor Saloon - the perfect pit stops during your trips to the grand City Hall and Titanic museum, which is located on the exact spot the fated ship was built.

Instagrammable travel destinations? This one is delivering photogenic views and food.

Birmingham

One of the top weekend breaks in the UK, Birmingham is filled to the brim with gorgeous spaces, from picturesque Botanical Gardens to the Vulcan Park and Museum downtown. But another scenic spot that's an absolute must are the city's waterways. Enjoy views of it all from The Canal House. And when you’re done exploring? Check out the bustling bar scene, such as getting to Flight Club for cocktails, pizza and darts.

Head to Brum for gin-tastic views along its canalside.

Bath

Bath is definitely up there as one of the best UK city breaks for history, as it boasts eye-catching architecture and stunning museums. With the main attraction being its Roman baths, there are plenty of other hidden gems in this South West England spot. Have dinner at The Boater, a grandiose pub situated along the iconic Pulteney Bridge, or check out swanky cocktail bar Sub 13. You’ll get to explore a charming Champagne lounge, beautiful garden terrace area and speakeasy bar.