Explore the top things to do in United Kingdom! From historical landmarks to natural wonders, discover the best attractions and activities for an unforgettable British adventure. Welcome to the ultimate guide on the myriad of experiences waiting to be explored in the United Kingdom!
Things to Do in United Kingdom
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a culinary adventurer, the UK offers a treasure trove of attractions and activities that cater to every taste and interest. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into 10 incredible things to do in the United Kingdom, ensuring that your journey through this diverse and vibrant country is nothing short of spectacular.
#1 Tick London off your bucket list
There is no question of ticking London off your bucket list.
This epic city truly boasts incredible historical sites, top museums, great galleries, delicious restaurants, beautiful walks, super shops and attractions.
#2 Marvel at Stonehenge
Over 5000 years old, the UNESCO-listed Stonehenge is one of the most famous monuments in the world.
Spend a day at this ancient site marveling at the people who inhabited this land thousands of years ago and what they created.
You can learn how to get to Stonehenge from London here or discover how to get your Stonehenge tickets here.
#3 Hike Hadrian's Wall
Another UNESCO site, Hadrian's Wall was built to protect the wild northwestern frontier of the Roman Empire.
Stretching 73 miles from coast to coast, you can walk its entire length as part of an amazing 5-day adventure.
Alternatively, if you're looking for a quick fix, this top-rated 2 hour wall tour (with full historical lowdown) should do the trick!
#4 Road trip to Scotland
The North Coast 500 is one of the most famous UK road trips you can (and should) do!
North of Scotland on Route 66, it's an iconic drive you can't miss for scenery, isolation and whiskey tasting – a winning combination!
#5 Gower Camp
And from Scotland to Wales, the beautiful Gower Peninsula in the south of the country is a camper's delight for its beautiful coastline, fantastic walks, historic sites and peaceful splendor.
Don't miss the famous Warm Head while you're here, or a chance to practice your surf skills!
#6 Travel to Belfast
Belfast's famous black taxi tour is truly essential in learning about the city's complex history.
Taking around 1.5 hours, and led by locals, these trips are one of the most unique and interesting in the UK as a whole.
#7 Sing at the White Cliffs of Dover
"On the white hills of Dover there will be blue birds" sang Vera Lynn and standing on the edge of Kent with France clearly visible just 22 nautical miles away, you can sing along as you walk alongside these iconic limestone giants.
The White Cliffs of Dover are one of the best places to visit in Kent and make for a great London day or weekend trip - check out my ultimate guide to visiting them here.
#8 Snap Durdle Door in Dorset
Another coastal special, the view of Dorset's grand archway from Dordale Door, set on one of the most beautiful coastlines in the country, is not to be missed.
Nearby Lulworth Cove is also a must - hike between them if you can.
#9 Historic Baths on foot
It's an absolute classic, but it's a classic for a reason, yes the UNESCO-listed city of Bath is a UK tourist favorite thanks to its ancient streets, riverside setting, cute shops, impressive abbey, Roman baths and Christmas markets.
A great day trip from London if you want to explore more of stunning Somerset, such as the beautiful town in Wales, which is home to Europe's oldest continuously inhabited residential street.
#10 Order a pint in a pub
No matter where you live in the UK, you'll always find a great pub that offers a brilliant pint and sitting down with some local company to enjoy it is definitely a bucket list item!
With plenty of craft breweries popping up across the country, there are plenty of beers and ales, and from traditional boozers to gastro-pub delights, choosing a good place to sip won't be hard!
Extra points if you manage to find a historic pub, many across the country date back to the 13th century and beyond!
#11 Stride Out in the Yorkshire Dales
I know the UK has lots of great pubs and beautiful green spaces for walking but, top of my list in both of these categories, it has to be the amazing Yorkshire Dales.
A national park and an incredible place for a hike, the delightful villages that dot the region also add to the charm and appeal.
Don't miss Malham or Haworth - both gems in my book!
#12 Hire a barge in Norfolk
The Norfolk Broads are renowned for their flat and flooded scenery, and hiring a barge here to cruise the waterways at a leisurely pace is truly a dream!
Great with a group of mates, it's all about donning your captain's hat and getting out there!
#13 Summit Snowdown
And the king (or queen) of Welsh mountaineers, Snowdon is hard to ignore when it comes to the highlight summit you want to scramble to the top of this country.
Located in the north of Wales, the national park surrounding this mountain is also worth exploring.
If you're not confident enough to do it alone, this fantastic guided hike could be just the ticket!
#14 Pay homage to the Beatles
Home to the Beatles, as well as a whole host of other UK celebrities, Liverpool is a wonderful city in the North West of England.
From the amazing Beatles story to the famous football ground, ferries across the Mersey and a beautifully revitalized UNESCO-listed waterfront, full of great museums and cultural hotspots, this city is an absolute treat.
In this post I wrote all about my trip to Liverpool discover my top 21 things to do there.
#15 Hike the Lake District
Also in the north of England, actually just above Liverpool, is the mighty Lake District.
With some of the country's most striking landscapes, which have inspired artists for centuries, it's the perfect place to strap on your hiking boots and take in some fresh air.
#16 Hit the beaches in Cornwall or Devon
And when you're done with the lakes, it's time to hit the beach!
And top of the list has to be counties Devon and Cornwall, with their amazing coastlines, coves and cafes!
Yes there is no point in coming this way and enjoying a famous cream tea… it's all part of the fun!
The Southwest Coastal Path also passes through these counties and is a treat for hikers… or those who want to drink cream tea!
Otherwise, visit the region's beautiful historic towns - my favourite, Totnes, has to be a highlight.
#17 Spot Wild Ponies in the New Forest
If wildlife is your thing, the delightful New Forest is the ideal place to clap your eyes on wild ponies or donkeys!
Looking across this amazing national park, where you can drive or cycle to your heart's content, the region's amazing trees and peaceful villages make it a firm favourite.
Check out my list of the top 21 things to do in the New Forest.
#18 Find your favorite Harry Potter site
Home of Harry Potter, the UK is obsessed with famous sites from the films and exploring them, identifying them and sharing them, is all part of the fun… if you're a Harry Potter fan!
Great for kids (big and small), there are so many options for tours and trains and trips with Harry Potter in the UK, that you really can't go wrong!
#19 Don't miss the beautiful Cotswolds villages
Another gem in the southwest of England, the Cotswolds are famous for their beautiful villages, which are mainly made up of cute sandstone cottages.
From Bourton-on-the-Water to Stow-on-the-Old, don't miss the charm and quaint feel of this countryside.
If you're heading this way, check out my ideal 2 day Cotswold itinerary.
#20 Run the Brecon Beacon
Another epic place in Wales, Brecon Beacon National Park is a wonderful mountain area with great hikes, beautiful waterfalls and some pretty villages.
Camping and walking are my favorites here, but if you're feeling less active, a drive through this amazing rural landscape, with its epic views, is also a delight.
Don't miss the chance to climb this park's amazing waterfalls or Pen Y Fan if you can.
#21 Shop till you drop
From Manchester to Glasgow, Newcastle to Nottingham, loads of UK cities have some fantastic shopping opportunities, so load up the credit card and get out there!
#22 Embrace the charm of Edinburgh
Scotland's capital, home to one of the world's largest wilderness festivals and full of street charm – Edinburgh is a must on your UK travel list.
Climbing Arthur's Seat is highly recommended for an amazing elevated view of the city.
#23 See Giant's Causeway
A UNESCO gem located in Northern Ireland, this dramatic clifftop landscape borders the North Atlantic Ocean, giving its walks an extra rugged and wild thrill.
Definitely one for the UK bucket list.
#24 Snap Pretty Beach Hut in Suffolk
If you want to escape the crowds, especially from London, let me recommend Suffolk.
Home to beautiful countryside and some stunning sandy beaches, the coastline here is much quieter than the south coast and its villages all the more charming for it.
A great foodie destination, with lots of pubs, it's Southwold's beautiful beach huts and piers that always attract me the most.
#25 Take a vineyard tour
And if you're into your food, why not pair it with a great wine treat with the growing number of English vineyard tours that are popping up.
From Suffolk to Kent, Sussex to Dorset, English wine is starting to make a big splash on the fine dining scene… and I'm not kidding!
#26 Eat all the oysters in Whitstable
And while we're on the foodie theme, you can't miss a bit of UK seaside food when you travel.
Oysters are a particular favorite and there are few better places to sample them than the great Kent seaside destination of Whitstable.
Packed with kitsch charm and beautiful coastal scenery, Whitstable makes a great day trip or mini-break.
Find out more in my complete travel guide to Whitstable.
#27 Spotted puffins on the Yorkshire coast
And sticking with the coastal theme, but heading north this time, the Yorkshire coast is often overlooked when it comes to British seaside winners.
It's a real shame, because from the award-winning Robin Hood and Runwick Bays to the Gothic charm of Whitby, the atmospheric harbor of Staithes and the puffin-spotting cliffs of Flamborough Head - there's a lot to be proud of!
Check out my list of the 9 best places to visit on the Yorkshire coast here.
#28 Walk in the Bird's Footsteps
Shakespeare is a British celebrity we certainly won't soon forget!
Visit his birthplace Stratford-upon-Avon or catch a performance at London's amazing Globe Theater for your fix!
#29 Take a street art tour in Bristol
And now on to more modern artistic attractions… The city of Bristol is home to Banksy – the world-renowned graffiti artist – and his work is dotting the place.
Taking a tour to learn more about his street art as well as other artists in the city is a great half-day activity.
Check out my list of other top things to do in Bristol here.
#30 punt on historic Oxford and Cambridge
Couldn't go through this list and not mention the famous student cities of Oxford or Cambridge.
Perfect for a historic walk or cycle, whether you fancy a set of oars for 2 feet or 2 wheels, trying to get your hands on one of these riverside towns is a British bucket list classic!
#31 Stride Out The Seven Sisters
One of the best walks in the UK and another easy trip from London, the Seven Sisters Cliffs in East Sussex sit between Eastbourne and Brighton and are part of the mighty South Downs National Park.
Don't miss the challenging clifftop walks, dramatic ocean views or beautiful stretches of beach here.
Find out about the best places to start, finish, visit, eat and stay in the area here.
#32 The Queen's Wave at Windsor
And another great walk near London is the Windsor Long Walk, which offers the most spectacular view of the famous Windsor Castle.
Wave to the Queen, spot wild deer or visit Legoland while you're here!
#33 Get away from the crowds in Northumberland National Park
In the far northeast of England, unlike many of the National Parks on this list, Northumberland promises wild and windswept countryside blissfully off the beaten track and without the crowds.
#34 Kayak the Wye Valley
And another place that avoids the crowds is the Wye Valley on the Welsh border.
Beautiful, green, quiet and remote, it is the waterways of this very rural area that offer some of the best river kayaking and SUP-ing opportunities in the country.
Reward yourself afterwards with a refreshing drink too!
#35 Week Spend a weekend on the Isle of Wight
And if it's water you're after, the UK certainly has a ton of islands to choose from!
Sticking to the south of the country for now, the Islands of Sicily and the Channel Islands both make my top list.
However, it's the Isle of Wight that takes pole position for its great walks, restaurants, historic attractions, top beaches and laid-back atmosphere.
The multiple Isle of Wight ferry options are also the easiest to take care of.
#36 Discover the UK's only desert
Yes Dungeness in the corner of Kent is the UK's only official wilderness and visiting it feels like stepping onto another planet.
With a wonderful abandoned feel and a favorite haunt of photographers and artists, this is a truly unique place you shouldn't miss.
#37 Spend a night in Glasgow
One of the UK's most buzzing and authentic cities, Scotland's second city Glasgow makes for a great and memorable night out!
Find out about the top 15 attractions to visit in this city if you have time to spend a day or 2 here.
#38 Track down all the Gormleys
Renowned British sculptor, Anthony Gormley, has an amazing array of massive, embedded art across the UK and stopping to spot them is a top thing to do on your trip to the land.
From the sea sculptures in Kent to the beach sculptures near Liverpool to the famous Angel of the North, there are many great Gormley options to choose from.
#39 Stride out on the Welsh coastal path
The amazing Welsh Coastal Path is one of the very high UK walks on my list.
Of course I did parts of it - if you can take any of the cliff paths in Wales you will! - but making the whole thing seems pretty amazing to me.
#40 Get your historic home fix
It's impossible to list them all here, but a good place to start is some of the TV shows made famous by Downton Abbey, or access if you have a National Trust or English Heritage membership.
And an FYI: if you're planning a trip to the UK - any of these memberships can really help you stick to a budget!
#41 Watch from Ma'am Tor
I can't believe I've made it to number 41 on this list and failed to mention the Peak District until now… but here we go!
The beautiful Peak District National Park near Manchester is a great place for hiking, eating lots of cake and visiting beautiful villages.
It's also got some cracking views, the best of which is probably from the top of Mam Tor, one of the highest points around.
#42 Spot seal in Lincolnshire
Who knew, but Donna Nook on the Lincolnshire coast is home to a colony of gray seals in winter.
Traveling in the best months of October and November is a great opportunity to see one of the UK's lesser-known wildlife wonders.
Blakeney in Norfolk is another good place for them.
#43 Visit Tintern Abbey in the Forest of Dean
I'm a huge fan of old abbey ruins – probably why I love Yorkshire so much… Bolton Abbey and Fountain Abbey are amazing there!
But another highlight is Tintern Abbey in the Royal Forest of Dean.
A beautiful woodland area near the Welsh border, the Forest of Dean is a stunning place to get away from it all and the perfect excuse to visit the abbey ruins here.
Famous for its inspiration from Wordsworth's poem, the Gothic masterpiece of Tintern Abbey stands on the banks of the River Wye and is an impressive 1131 AD.
#44 Hits up a festival
And from old to new, there's no question, a festival is your must-do in the UK.
From food festivals to literary festivals, music festivals to beer festivals, film festivals to comedy festivals, there are so many happening across the country and year that you'll be hard-pressed to find something that doesn't fit into your schedule.
#45 Dig for fossils on the Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast, located in southern England, is famous for its abundance of fossils from the Jurassic period, hence its name. It stretches for about 95 miles (153 kilometers) along the English Channel coast, from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset.
Digging for fossils isn't something you do every day and that's exactly why it makes this list!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
What are the best times to visit the United Kingdom for tourism?
The best times to visit the United Kingdom for tourism are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild, and attractions are less crowded.
Are there any must-visit destinations for Harry Potter fans in the UK?
Yes, Harry Potter fans can visit Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, explore the historic city of Edinburgh for its connections to J.K. Rowling, and ride the Hogwarts Express on the Jacobite Steam Train in Scotland.
What outdoor activities are popular in the United Kingdom?
Popular outdoor activities in the United Kingdom include hiking, cycling, rock climbing, kayaking, and wildlife watching in its national parks, coastal areas, and countryside.
How can I travel sustainably in the United Kingdom?
Travel sustainably in the United Kingdom by using public transportation, staying in eco-friendly accommodations, reducing plastic usage, supporting local businesses, and participating in responsible tourism practices.
Are there any free attractions to visit in the United Kingdom?
Yes, there are several free attractions to visit in the United Kingdom, including national museums, art galleries, parks, and historic landmarks such as the British Museum, Tate Modern, and Hyde Park.
What are some traditional British dishes that I must try during my visit?
Some traditional British dishes to try during your visit include fish and chips, roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, afternoon tea with scones and clotted cream, and traditional English breakfast with bacon, eggs, and baked beans.
Conclusion:
Embark on a journey of discovery and adventure in the United Kingdom, where every corner reveals a new experience and every moment is filled with wonder. Whether you're exploring historic landmarks, indulging in culinary delights, or immersing yourself in cultural experiences, the UK offers something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags, set out on your British adventure, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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