20 Ultra Cool Towns & Cities You Must Visit In The UK – Part 2

Welcome back to the second half of our post all about the world’s favorite UK cities! If you haven’t already delved into our first post, you can find it here. Let’s get back to the countdown now and discover our favorite cities to discover in the UK.

The Cotswolds

Ok, The Cotswolds aren’t technically a city, they’re a group of incredible towns and villages that span 6 counties in the UK. But they’re important to add because you simply can’t visit the UK without heading to one of them. Take Asthall for example, one of the prettiest vllages in the Cotswolds. It’s full of artistry and history that dates back centuries, as well as gardens to roam around to take in the scenery. Some of the more popular spots in the Cotswolds include Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Chipping Campden. Aside from their cutesy names, they’re stunning villages to wander through that’ll leave you wondering when you can move in.

Edinburgh

We couldn’t write about the world’s favorite UK cities without adding Edinburgh to the list (Glasgow made it into part one too!). Not only is this city steeped in gorgeous Scottish history, it’s simply stunning. Don’t leave without visiting Edinburgh Castle, which overlooks the city from afar on its jagged outpost, and make sure you swing by the dungeons, the countless interesting museums, and The Elephant House, famed cafe where author J.K Rowling started writing Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. You’ll be blown away by the Scots welcoming nature, and leave the city feeling renewed.

Brighton

High on the bucket lists of most Brits is Brighton, a glorious seaside resort in the south of England famous for its pier and LGBTQIA scene. It’s vital to spend a few days here taking in the sights and scenery (and taking your time to devour a few portions of fish and chips while you’re at it). You’ll find stylish accommodation, incredibly raucous nights out, super friendly locals and piles of bars to visit in this glorious southern city. Take an afternoon wander across the pier and revel in its delights, or simply kick back and relax on its famous pebbly beach.

Manchester

Manchester holds first place in many people’s hearts because its vibe is simply unlike any other of the UK cities. It’s locals are uber-friendly, and the sense of community runs throughout the boroughs of Manchester. Its street art scene is fantastic, its shopping is vast and varied, and the amount of cool cafes you can pop into is unrivalled. It simply doesn’t end. Check out our top 10 things to do in Manchester blog post here if you want to find out more.

York

York is said to be one of the UK’s most beautiful cities, especially when it comes to checking out Ye Olde British History. With Roman, Saxon and Viking settlers making a name for it back in the olden days, York has flourised into a popular, touristy city that has heaps to offer. There’s York Minster, The Shambles (seen above), even York’s fortress walls that date back centuries. There are plenty of cobbled streets to wander too, where you’ll find pockets of preserved history everywhere you turn. It’s not to be missed.

Bristol

Summer in Bristol is the locals favorite season, when the kegs of cider are untapped proper and served up fresh with a side of Bristolian flare. Not only is Bristol a lucious green area full of cycle paths and walking routes, it has a ton of outdoor activities that attract tourists in their droves year after year, including Banksy’s artwork (Banksy hails from Bristol), and the magical hot air balloon fiesta that happens annually. It’s the perfect city to get lost outside in, all whilst winding up at a cool cafe at the end of the day to recuperate with some magical cake and tea.

Oxford

Oxford is synonymous with culture and heritage, as well as one of the UK’s leading universities, but that’s not all it has to offer. In fact, you’ll find a sea of cool and interesting things to do in this student city (partying with students is not on the list, sorry). Punt along the River Thames, head for afternoon tea with scones, jam, and clotted cream, see the Bridge of Sighs, visit the Museum of Natural History, head to the Botanical Gardens, or take a tour around Christ Church, one of the most well known colleges at Oxford University.

Leeds

Leeds is another student hub, so you know it’s a lively spot. It’s an incredible city to explore for a few days too, and sits at the top of Yorkshire, in the north of England. Firstly, it prides itself as being the foodie capital of the north, so you’re only a street or two away from ultra-cool cafes and cocktail bars, or independent eateries like the foodstalls of Kirkgate Market. Why not spend your time eating through the city? Its art and culture scene is thriving too, with street art, museums, and galleries around every corner. When Covid isn’t thriving, it’s a fantastic spot for an outdoor event or two too, which makes Leeds a stand out place to explore.

Llangollen

Llangollen is a walker’s paradise, with so many gorgeous routes to take through the UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s the Pontcysyllte Aquaduct (pictured above), a long aquaduct, 100ft high, with 18 arches that’s still in use by narrowboats even today that you can wander across and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding area, as well as the local train station, which will pull you ever further into the Welsh countryside, where you can wander through vast forests and fields for the perfect afternoon outdoors. Back in Llangollen itself, you can treat yourself to a home made ice cream or homely pub lunch and take in the glorious atmosphere.

Newcastle

Newcastle upon Tyne is our final pick in our 20 Ultra Cool Towns & Cities You Must Visit In The UK post. Another student city, Newcastle is a popular northern destination that offers plenty of Geordie charm and bustling activities for everyone to get to grips with. You need to take on the nightlife for one; it’s said to be some of the best in the entire country, and with plenty of attractions like the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, the Life Science Centre, and the Angel of the North, there’s so much to see and do in the city that you’ll certainly need a weekend or more to fit it all in.

There’s our round up of 20 Ultra Cool Towns & Cities You Must Visit In The UK. Which ones were your favorite and why? Let us know down below or on Instagram or Facebook. We love hearing your feedback!