Inject the season with a little excitement and plan a weekend away in one of the many beautiful cities in the UK.
Whether it's the bright lights of London that have you hooked or the historic streets of York, the UK has plenty to offer if you're looking for a city break. We've got sites near loads of amazing locations!
Colourful, creative and cheery, the city of Brighton and Hove is famed for its alternative shopping hub, The Lanes, as well as the stunning Royal Pavilion and Brighton Palace Pier – a perfect place to stroll for arcades, a funfair and fish and chips.
There's a wealth of things to see and do in the capital, from visiting major galleries and museums to seeing a show at a West End Theatre or sampling fine dining at one of the many restaurants and gastro pubs.
The historic, riverside city of Bristol is a cultural fusion of art, music, comedy, history and heritage. Tap into the city’s history and visit Castle Park’s Norman ruins, Bristol Cathedral or head out in the evening to West End theatres and performing arts venues.
On the south coast, Portsmouth offers so much for anyone interested in Britain’s seafaring past. Visit the Historic Dockyard attraction, which tells the story of the Mary Rose, HMS Victory and much more. Take a harbour tour or an exhilarating trip on a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) before enjoying a quayside sundowner.
Admire the beautiful architecture of Cambridge – much of it belonging to the university – and discover the range of pubs, restaurants and cafes in the pleasant, lively city centre. You could even catch a student theatrical production at the Arts Theatre.
Manchester is great for superb music, amazing comedy venues and museums, galleries and gardens. You can stay at relaxing Burrs Country Park - just a half hour tram ride from Manchester city centre - for a mix of tranquil countryside walks and fast-paced city exploring.
Incredibly, there are 25 museums in York, a city that’s worth visiting time and time again. Home to York Minster, the National Railway Museum, the Jorvik Viking Centre and so much more, wandering through the network of old streets and browsing the diverse selection of shops are also highlights.
Chester has the most complete set of Roman city walls and the largest Roman amphitheatre in Great Britain as well as the oldest racecourse still in use – not to mention the 1,000-year-old cathedral. With all that to see, plus a great selection of shops and the excellent Chester Zoo, this is a great city destination.
Newcastle-upon-Tyne offers a vibrant mix of entertainment. Enjoy the energetic bars of the Bigg Market, catch live gigs at the Boiler Shop, or experience intimate jazz at the Newcastle Arts Centre. For comedy, musicals, and classic drama, take your pick between the iconic Tyne Theatre & Opera House and the magnificent Theatre Royal.
With the picturesque West End (sprinkled with stylish fashion boutiques, gift shops and florists) and bustling George Street and Princes Street, you’ll never run out of things to see and do in Edinburgh city centre.
Another city steeped in history, the centre includes the Old Town Jail and imposing Stirling Castle. Take a trip to the National Wallace Monument to discover the story of William Wallace – you’ll also be rewarded with superb views.
