For such a tiny country, the United Kingdom is packed with an incredible mix of diverse scenery. From its rugged coastlines and magical castles to sandy dunes, enchanting woods, quintessentially British countryside, and vibrant and welcoming cities. Here are my top 19 places to visit in the UK, besides London.
The United Kingdom feels like my second home. I’ve probably traveled more in the UK than I have in my own country Sweden. Or in any other country for that matter. I’ve traveled across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and I’m still craving to discover more. London is like a magical magnet pulling you in again and again. But the United Kingdom has so much more to offer any traveler.
The mix of diverse scenery, varied culture, and rich cultural heritage make it a pleasure to explore. As well as the friendly welcomes. Brits are so polite and make me feel at home wherever I go.
Why I Love Traveling Around the UK
One of the greatest pleasures of a UK vacation is the ease of exploring this fascinating country. The cities are very well connected, and you can just hop on a one-hour train ride an be in a completely different place. That’s amazing. You can, for example, go from a medieval castle town to a seaside resort with beaches and palm trees in just 10-minutes (see number 8 on my list). Next time you’re in the UK, discover the real Britain! Hire a car or get one of the BritRail Passes for unlimited train travel.
As inspiration, I’ve put together this list with some of the best places to visit in the UK (outside London).
18. Durham, England
Hop on a train from Newcastle, and you will be in Durham in just 11 minutes. Here you can marvel at the awe-inspiring Durham Cathedral (this is where Harry Potter’s Transfiguration class in The Chamber of Secrets took place) and stare jealously at the students attending the Hogwarts-like university Durham University. The university is situated in a real castle (where some students actually live). And there’s even a Great Hall inside where the students eat their lunch.
One of the best reasons to visit Durham is also to check in to the superb luxury 5 star Seaham Hall Hotel and Serenity Spa. The Georgian country house is situated on top of a cliff with views over Durham’s beautiful coastline and rugged countryside. It is the perfect place to relax and unwind. This is also where I had the best body massage in my life.
