7 Amazing City Breaks in the UK
7 Amazing City Breaks in the UK
7 Amazing City Breaks in the UK
There’s nothing I love more than a city break—just a couple of days exploring somewhere new, soaking up the sights, eating incredible food, and discovering hidden gems. Over the years, I’ve visited so many incredible places across the UK, and these seven cities have truly stood out. Whether it’s wandering through historic streets, relaxing at a spa, or taking in the best views, each one has something special to offer.
I’ve put together this guide based on my own experiences, with where to stay, the best things to do, and must-visit food spots—plus tips on when to go and how to get there. If you’re planning a weekend escape, these cities should definitely be on your list
1. Bath
Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK, and it’s easy to see why. The stunning Georgian architecture, natural thermal spas, and rich Roman history make it a dream for anyone who loves relaxation, history, and charming streets filled with independent shops and cafés.
Best Time to Visit:
📅 Spring & autumn for pleasant weather and smaller crowds.
How to Get There:
🚆 Train: Direct trains from London Paddington (1h 20m).
🚗 Car: 2.5-hour drive from London.
Where to Stay
🏨 Luxury: The Royal Crescent Hotel
🏨 Boutique: The Queensberry Hotel
🏨 Mid-Range: No.15 by GuestHouse
🏨 Budget: The Z Hotel Bath
🏨 Charming: The Yard in Bath
5 Best Things to Do:
🏛️ The Roman Baths – Step back in time.
💦 Thermae Bath Spa – Rooftop spa with a view.
🌉 Pulteney Bridge – The prettiest bridge in Bath.
🏡 The Royal Crescent – A stunning Georgian landmark.
🚶 Walk the Bath Skyline Trail for panoramic city views.
5 Places to Eat:
🍽️ Sotto Sotto – Cozy Italian dining.
🍰 The Pump Room – Historic afternoon tea.
🥩 The Scallop Shell – Great seafood.
🥐 Good Day Café – Cute brunch spot.
🍷 Clayton’s Kitchen – Contemporary British cuisine.
2. Cambridge
Every time I visit Cambridge, I feel like I’ve stepped into a postcard. The scenic river, punting under historic bridges, and stunning college buildings make this city break feel both relaxing and full of culture.
Best Time to Visit:
📅 Late spring & summer – The best weather for punting and riverside walks.
How to Get There:
🚆 Train: Direct from London King’s Cross (50m).
🚗 Car: 1.5-hour drive from London.
Where to Stay
🏨 Luxury: The University Arms
🏨 Boutique: The Graduate Cambridge
🏨 Mid-Range: Hotel du Vin Cambridge
🏨 Budget: The Ibis Cambridge Central
🏨 Quirky: The Fellows House
5 Best Things to Do:
🛶 Go Punting – A classic Cambridge experience.
🌉 Bridge of Sighs – One of the city’s most beautiful spots.
⛪ St Mary’s Church Rooftop – Incredible panoramic views.
🏛️ Explore the Colleges – King’s College Chapel is a must-see.
🚶 Walk the Backs – A peaceful riverside walk behind the colleges.
5 Places to Eat:
🥞 Fitzbillies – Famous for its sticky Chelsea buns.
🍕 Aromi – The best pizza in town.
🍛 Navadhanya – Michelin-rated Indian cuisine.
🍷 Pint Shop – Great for craft beer and British small plates.
☕ PAUS – A hidden gem with hot tubs and a wellness café.
3. Edinburgh
Edinburgh is one of those cities that feels magical no matter how many times you visit. From its cobbled streets and historic closes to breathtaking hilltop views, it’s the perfect mix of culture, history, and incredible food.
Best Time to Visit:
📅 Spring (March – May) & Autumn (September – November) for fewer crowds and crisp weather.
How to Get There:
🚆 Train: Direct services from London (4h 30m) & Manchester (3h 30m).
✈️ Airport: Edinburgh Airport (20 min by tram to city centre).
Where to Stay
🏨 Luxury: The Witchery by the Castle
🏨 Boutique: The Balmoral
🏨 Mid-Range: Market Street Hotel
🏨 Budget: Stay Central Hotel
🏨 Quirky: House of Gods
5 Best Things to Do:
🏰 Edinburgh Castle – Panoramic city views and deep history.
🚶 Royal Mile – Cobbled streets filled with historic sites and cozy pubs.
🌿 Dean Village – A peaceful riverside retreat.
📍 Stockbridge – One of the prettiest areas in the city.
🕵️ The Real Mary King’s Close – An underground look at Edinburgh’s past.
5 Places to Eat:
🍽️ The Witchery – Gothic fine dining.
🍔 Dishoom Edinburgh – Bombay comfort food.
🐟 The Fishmarket – Best fish & chips in town.
🥩 Hawksmoor – Steak & classic British dining.
🍰 Lovecrumbs – Cozy café with amazing cakes.
4. Newcastle
Newcastle completely surprised me—it’s full of energy, packed with history, and has an amazing food and nightlife scene. Whether you’re kayaking on the river, exploring its iconic bridges, or enjoying the buzzy Quayside, this city break offers way more than you’d expect.
Best Time to Visit:
📅 Spring & autumn – Great weather and a buzzing atmosphere.
How to Get There:
🚆 Train: Direct from London King’s Cross (3h).
✈️ Airport: Newcastle International Airport (20 min from the city).
Where to Stay
🏨 Luxury: Jesmond Dene House
🏨 Boutique: Malmaison Newcastle
🏨 Mid-Range: INNSiDE by Melia
🏨 Budget: Motel One Newcastle
🏨 Trendy: Hotel du Vin Newcastle
5 Best Things to Do:
🛶 Kayak on the River Tyne – A unique way to see the city.
🏰 Explore Newcastle Castle – Where the city gets its name.
🌉 Walk the Tyne Bridge – One of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
🏛️ Visit Grey’s Monument – A central historic landmark.
🎭 See a show at the Theatre Royal – Stunning architecture and great performances.
5 Places to Eat:
🥩 House of Tides – Michelin-starred fine dining.
🍕 Pizza Punks – Fun and quirky pizza spot.
🍔 Fat Hippo – One of the best burger joints in the UK.
🍤 Dobson & Parnell – Modern British cuisine.
🍩 Proven Goods Co. – Amazing handmade doughnuts.
5. Durham
Durham is like stepping back in time. The stunning cathedral, riverside walks, and charming cobbled streets make it one of my favourite historic cities in the UK. Whether you’re exploring the medieval past, relaxing at a spa, or visiting Beamish Museum, Durham is full of hidden gems.
Best Time to Visit:
📅 Spring & autumn – Scenic walks and fewer crowds.
How to Get There:
🚆 Train: Direct from London (3h), Newcastle (15 min).
🚗 Car: 2.5-hour drive from Manchester.
Where to Stay
🏨 Luxury: Rockliffe Hall
🏨 Boutique: The Kingslodge Inn
🏨 Mid-Range: Hotel Indigo Durham
🏨 Budget: Premier Inn Durham City
5 Best Things to Do:
⛪ Visit Durham Cathedral – A UNESCO-listed masterpiece.
💆 Twilight Spa at Seaham Hall – Perfect for relaxation.
🏛️ Explore Beamish Museum – A living history experience.
🚶 Walk along the River Wear – Stunning scenic routes.
🏰 Tour Durham Castle – A 900-year-old Norman castle.
5 Places to Eat:
🍽️ Coarse – Seasonal fine dining.
🥘 Flat White Kitchen – A local brunch favorite.
🍕 La Spaghettata – Cozy Italian dining.
🥩 The Cellar Door – British classics with river views.
🍰 Tealicious Tea Room – Perfect for afternoon tea.
6. Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a seaside city packed with history, stunning views, and great food. From exploring its naval heritage to relaxing by the beach, this city is full of surprises.
Best Time to Visit:
📅 Summer (June – August) – The best weather for beaches and boat trips.
How to Get There:
🚆 Train: Direct from London Waterloo (1h 30m).
🚗 Car: 1.5-hour drive from London.
Where to Stay
🏨 Luxury: The Ship Leopard Boutique Hotel
🏨 Boutique: The Florence House Boutique Hotel
🏨 Mid-Range: The Queens Hotel
🏨 Budget: Premier Inn Portsmouth
🏨 Seaside: The Royal Maritime Club
5 Best Things to Do:
🏖️ Relax at Southsea Beach – A perfect coastal escape.
🎡 Go up Spinnaker Tower – Afternoon tea with a panoramic view.
⚓ Explore Portsmouth Historic Dockyard – Home to HMS Victory.
🛍️ Shop at Gunwharf Quays – Outlet shopping by the sea.
🚢 Visit the Mary Rose Museum – See Henry VIII’s famous warship.
5 Places to Eat:
🐟 The Still & West – Amazing seafood with harbor views.
🥩 Southsea Beach Café – Great for brunch by the sea.
🍕 Circolo Pizzeria – Authentic Italian spot.
🍣 Sakura – Best sushi in Portsmouth.
🍔 Meat & Barrel – Craft beer and top-rated burgers.
7. London
London is one of those places where no two trips ever feel the same. Whether you’re visiting for the iconic landmarks, world-class food scene, or hidden gems, there’s always something new to explore.
Best Time to Visit:
📅 Year-round (but spring & autumn are best for mild weather).
How to Get There:
🚆 Train: Direct services from most UK cities to London King’s Cross, St Pancras, Euston & Waterloo.
✈️ Airports: Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton & City Airport.
Where to Stay
🏨 Luxury: The Savoy
🏨 Boutique: The Hoxton, Southwark
🏨 Mid-Range: The Montague on the Gardens
🏨 Budget: Z Hotel Covent Garden
🏨 Trendy: Mama Shelter
5 Best Things to Do:
🛥️ Tower Bridge & Tower of London – A historic double feature.
🎡 London Eye – A classic way to see the skyline.
🏙️ The View at The Shard – One of the best city views.
🎨 Frameless Museum – An immersive digital art experience.
🦖 Natural History Museum – Iconic dinosaur exhibits & stunning architecture.
5 Places to Eat:
🥩 Blacklock Soho – Best Sunday roast.
🍝 Padella – Famous for its fresh pasta.
🌮 Borough Market – Endless street food options.
🍵 Sketch London – Afternoon tea in a pink wonderland.
🍣 SUSHISAMBA – Sushi with an unbeatable view.
Plan Your UK City Break
Whether you’re after history, relaxation, or scenic coastal escapes, these seven UK city breaks have something for everyone. From spa escapes in Bath to coastal adventures in Portsmouth, planning your next getaway has never been easier.
Looking for the best hotels, attractions, and food spots? Check out my recommended links and start planning your perfect UK city break today.
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