The UK inspires me. The more I travel here, the more I discover how many amazing places there are in this country. I recently wrote about 9 pretty towns and villages in Britain, and since I got good feedback I want to share 11 of the best cities in the UK with you.
Best Cities in the UK
These cities have all won me over with their charm and aesthetics. Whether its a majestic cathedral or attractive streets, each one has something unique to set it apart and make me want to stay longer. I hope you feel the same way.
1. Chester
When it comes to history and charm, Chester is hard to beat. This city has Roman walls, medieval churches, and a half-timbered high street that makes my heart flutter.
Add to that little side streets and colorful doors, and Chester is beautiful everywhere I look.
2. Edinburgh
When it comes to stunning views, Edinburgh tops my list. This city has everything from a hilltop castle to charming villages, and every time I visit I find a new hidden lane or secret alley to make me fall more in love with it.
3. Cambridge
As far as university cities go, Cambridge is stunning. The honey colored stone and and meandering river combine to make this one of the best cities in the UK. And that’s to say nothing of the stunning Gothic chapel interiors.
4. Wells
Often overlooked, Wells deserves a place on any list of beautiful places in the UK. This pint-size city is home to an enormous cathedral and a lot of charming streets.
Wandering along the high street and taking in the little lanes is a treat, not least when it comes to Vicars’ Close.
5. Durham
Durham is another university city that’s worth a visit for its cobbled streets and impressive cathedral. Rich in history, its castle is also a good place to get a glimpse into Britain’s past.
6. Oxford
Speaking of university cities, Oxford is one that deserves a place on my list of the best cities in the UK. The colleges feature gorgeous architecture from centuries past and the city has a lot of beautiful historic pubs, museums, and markets to explore.
7. St Davids
Out in Wales, the city of St Davids may be one of the smallest in Britain, but its lovely aspect more than makes up for its diminutive size. Like others on my list it’s home to an imposing cathedral, and it also has the added benefit of coastal charm.
8. Canterbury
Another famous cathedral city, Canterbury features streets with chocolate-box atmosphere. I love wandering through the narrow lanes and ducking into shops as I make my way through the center.
9. Winchester
Every time I visit Winchester I find more to love about it. This city has a bucolic river walk, secret gardens, and historic architecture galore. And let’s not forget the Round Table of King Arthur fame.
10. York
York is a city of dreams. From its medieval walls to its narrow alleys, there’s something beautiful in every direction. Add to that a minster, a river, and a lot of lovely shops, and York is a real charmer.
11. London
I couldn’t write about the prettiest cities in Britain without including London. The skyline of the UK capital is bursting with towers, turrets, domes, and spires, and the side streets are full of cobbled charm.
There’s every kind of beauty here, from ancient to modern, natural to human-made.
My list could go on, but I hope you’ve found inspiration in these 11 cities. Just writing about them has made me want to get out and explore more. I hope reading about them has made you feel the same. They really are some of the best cities in the UK.
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So many pretty cities! From your list my favorites and Cambridge and Winchester. There are a few I still need to visit too!
I may be biased but I do think Norwich is also a very pretty city. The cathedral is stunning and there are so many buildings dating back to the 1500s. I also love that some of the city wall is intact. I just wish we had a prettier castle!
Yeah, Norwich is lovely! I was there 10 years ago very briefly and would love to go back again.
I think that Lincoln, Lancaster, Shrewsbury and Leicester are very nice too.
Norwich is one of the best in my opinión.
Newcastle is a very fine industrial city.
Sorry for my English, i like very much your blog.
Regars from Spain.
Thanks for sharing your recommendations!
I visited Winchester last fall and loved it! I’m a huge Jane Austen fan so, of course, it was a must-see on my list. Would love to go back. Same with York. I have Edinburgh, Canterbury and Oxford on my list for my visit next year – – can’t wait!
Thank you for the post. I see I will have to add other cities to my list. Happy Saturday!
That’s great! I’m glad to hear it.
I still have a few of these cities to tick off my list but there are some really amazing places to see in the UK!
Thanks for the inspiration!
Allegra xx
You’re welcome!
Happy to see Edinburgh get a mention 🙂 I am moving there very soon and absolutely fell in love with it. Always wanted to go to York as well, it’s not top of the bucket list!
That’s great! I hope you enjoy living in Edinburgh.
Visited Chester last week, absolutely wonderful. Great people & amazing atmosphere! Thank you!
You’re welcome! That’s great.
Shrewsbury although not officially a city(County administrative town), is a small city size and certainly worth visiting. Certainly wouldn’t look out of place along side Chester at the top of this list. Historically beautiful with its Medieval, Tudor, Edwardian and Victoria buildings. Its a place for those that also like flowers, parks and scenic places. Those that are interested in Charles Darwin who was born there. Those who want to see the world’s first ever skyscraper along with the largest free standing column in the world.
Thanks for the recommendation!
Bath is a wonderful contestant, as is Windsor.
Thanks for sharing!
I agree! These are perfect choices! I’ll have to add Cambridge to my bucket list… somehow I’ve missed that one!
I’m glad! I hope you enjoy Cambridge when you visit.