London
It’s easy to think of travelling to Europe when city breaks come to mind, but there are some great English cities that are easily accessible by car, bus, or train, and are worth a visit in their own right.
Here are my picks for the top 5 city breaks in England:
Brighton
Brighton is a great city break in the summer months, when the English weather is at its best (if it cooperates, that is!). The city’s famous beaches and historic pier—complete with fun fair rides and entertainment—draw visitors from all over the UK and Europe, and are great places to start a city break.
But Brighton also has a wealth of other attractions. If you like shopping, the Lanes are a great place to go, and if you are into history, the Brighton Pavilion is one of the most stunning former royal residences in England. Additionally, nightlife lovers have no shortage of options for bars and clubs, as Brighton’s evening scene is one of the best in the UK.
Bath
Nestled in the Cotswolds and surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, the city of Bath is rich in both history and culture. Famous for its ancient Roman baths—they can still be visited today—the spa city has featured in Jane Austen novels and other important literary and artistic works. Bath is great for many things, including shopping on its plethora of big and small streets, and architecture—don’t miss the famous Pulteney Bridge and the Royal Crescent, one of the best examples of Georgian architecture in the UK.
Newcastle
Famous for its nightlife, Newcastle has a wealth of pubs and clubs, and a lot more, too. The city is home to a number of famous bridges, including the stunning Gateshead Millennium Bridge, as well as great museums like the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art. Performances at the futuristic Sage Gateshead are also popular with those visiting Newcastle, and historic Grey Street—with its beautiful 19th century architecture—was once voted the finest in Britain by listeners of the Today programme on BBC Radio 4.
York
York is another great city break in England. The city is full of history and has a range of activities that are great for all types of travellers, from families to couples and singles. York Minster, the famous cathedral, is one of the most iconic sights in the city, as is York Castle. For those interested in history, the Jorvik Viking Centre is a great place to explore York’s past, and if you like views, don’t miss the chance to walk along the tops of the city’s medieval walls. Foodies will love the famous Betty’s Cafe and Tea Rooms, and those that like the water can enjoy a boat tour on the River Ouse.
London
The UK capital is perhaps the most famous city break in England, and if you haven’t already travelled to London, it’s worth a visit. With its wealth of entertainment options—think theatre, concerts, art, exhibitions, museums, and performances—and great restaurants and nightlife, there is something for everyone in London. And while the capital is an expensive city, there are plenty of free museums and great parks that make visiting London easier on the pocketbook.