Let’s Explore The UK
England – the land of tea, red buses, and quirky charm! It’s where tradition meets fascination, drawing people from all corners of the globe. From Buckingham Palace to Big Ben, England has iconic landmarks and delightful surprises. scones. fish ‘n’ chips, football hooligans and the rest.
Sure, the weather might be unpredictable, but that’s all part of the fun (not)! I am ALWAYS running away from the UK to catch some rays, but there are some cool spots to visit, if I must say so myself. In this blog, I’ll guide you to eight amazing locations in England that will make you fall in love with this enchanting country (eventually). So, grab a cuppa and let’s dive into the adventure!
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London’s Calling
London, England’s vibrant heart and capital, is the most popular place to visit. From its iconic landmarks like The Shard and The Tower of London to the bustling streets of Oxford Street and the artistic flare of Shoreditch, the city is a fusion of tradition and innovation.
Visiting London is an experience like no other. It is a journey through history and the dynamic energy of England’s streets, diverse neighbourhoods, and world-class theatres, making for an unforgettable experience during your visit to London.
I must admit the Tower Bridge of London is pretty cool
Plenty To See In London
Where To Stay The Night In London
Charming Covent Gardens. For a lively atmosphere, consider staying in Covent Gardens. It’s a buzzing location known for its theatres, shopping, and dining experiences. There is a great selection of places to stay within easy reach of attractions like the British Museum and Trafalgar Square.
Party Central In Soho. Famous for its nightlife, Soho is home to trendy shops, restaurants, and theatres. It is centrally located, so exploring the West End and Chinatown is convenient. It’s a fantastic place to stay if you want never to avoid a dull moment, consider staying at a low-budget space so you’re not out of pocket with all the expensive hotels.
Chic & Classy In Kensington. For an upscale area with attractions, consider staying in Kensington. You’ll be near attractions like Kensington Palace, the Royal Albert Hall, and the Natural History Museum. It is well connected with transport links and a good choice if you are searching for a more boujee vibe. You can find upscale hotels, guesthouses, serviced apartments and boutique hotels here.
The Funky Shoreditch & Camden Scene. Shoreditch, based in East London, brings a hip and artistic vibe and is known for its street art, nightlife, and electric dining options. On the other hand, Camden is known for its alternative scene, Camden Market, and vibrant music venues. Both locations offer great accommodation so you won’t have trouble finding somewhere great.
My Hotel Picks:
Rock & Roll In Liverpool
Liverpool is a vibrant, music-filled city in northwest England. It is famous for The Beatles and their legendary music. The Cavern Club and The Beatles Story Museum draw in many music enthusiasts from around the globe.
Liverpool’s historic docks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a fascinating glimpse into its maritime past. Known for its warm and welcoming locals, Liverpool seamlessly blends history, music, and contemporary charm into an unforgettable destination in England.
Aerial view of the Modern architecture in Liverpool
Activities To Enjoy In Liverpool
Decisions, Decisions: Staying In Liverpool
The Action In The City Centre. The city centre puts you in the heart of the action with easy access to shopping, dining, nightlife, and major attractions like Albert Dock and Liverpool ONE. It’s one of the UK’s largest open-air shopping centres. There are many hotels, from luxury options to budget-friendly stays.
Fascinating Albert Dock. The waterfront area is also a popular place to consider. Albert Dock offers picturesque views of the dock, museums, galleries, and restaurants. Staying here means you’ll be close to attractions like The Beatles Story and Tate Liverpool. There’s a great range of accommodations to suit your needs, hostels are pretty cool round here.
Buzz Of Ropeswalk. Ropeswalk is the ideal spot for a super lively atmosphere if you’re looking for a bustling nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. It’s also close to the city’s centre’s amenities. You’ll find various hotels, hostels, and serviced apartments in and around this location.
Good Vibes In Baltic Triangle. The Baltic Triangle area is a cool emerging area with a creative and thriving flair and a great alternative to staying in the city centre. It’s a short walk from the city centre and offers unique accommodation options like boutique hotels and hip hostels. It’s a great spot worth checking out.
My Hotel Picks:
Meet The Geordies: Newcastle Upon Tyne
Welcome to Newcastle Upon Tyne, a city that pulses with energy and history in equal measure. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, Newcastle captivates visitors with its stunning architecture and bustling streets.
Whether it’s cheering on Newcastle United FC alongside passionate Geordies, exploring historical landmarks, or simply soaking up the lively ambience, there’s never a dull moment in this beloved city. With its friendly locals, dynamic university scene, and unmistakable charm, Newcastle is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring England’s northeast.
The Gateshead Millennium Bridge, a tilting bridge spanning the River Tyne in Newcastle
Newcastle Upon Tyne Must-See Attractions
Best Locations To Stay In Newcastle
Popular City Centre. Get ready to soak up the buzz of Newcastle in the vibrant City Centre! It’s the place for easy access to all the action – from top attractions to shopping, dining, and nightlife galore. Plus, with a range of hotels to choose from, whether you’re in the mood for luxury or keeping it budget-friendly, you’ll find the perfect pad to call home during your stay!
Scenic Views In Quayside Area. Escape to the picturesque Quayside Area and enjoy stunning views along the River Tyne! This charming spot is perfect for a relaxed stay with upscale dining options and boujee hotels just a stone’s throw from cultural attractions. It’s the ideal blend of tranquillity and excitement, all within easy reach of the city centre.
Chill Out In Jesmond. This leafy suburb north of the city centre is known for its upscale residential feel. It’s a quieter location with boutique shops, cafes, and green spaces. Jesomond is a good choice for a more tranquil stay while still being within reach of the city’s amenities. There is a great selection of hotels and bed and breakfast options.
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Oxford: Where Beauty Meets Brains
Welcome to Oxford, where intelligence and elegance intertwine seamlessly! Known for its prestigious university and historic charm, Oxford offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Take a leisurely stroll along the River Thames, explore picturesque gardens, and unwind in cosy pubs frequented by students and locals. With its rich history and cultural allure, Oxford is a must-visit destination in England, offering a delightful blend of intellect and beauty for all to enjoy.
Radcliffe Camera and All Souls College, Oxford University
Highlights To Discover In Oxford
Where To Settle In Oxford
Oxford’s Vibrant City Center. Welcome to the heart of Oxford – where the action happens, and adventure awaits everywhere! With attractions, tours, restaurants, and shops all within walking distance, staying in the City Center puts you in the thick of the excitement. From cosy boutiques to charming inns and trendy guesthouses, you’ll find a mix of accommodations to suit every style and budget.
Discover Charm In Jericho. Escape the hustle and bustle and retreat to the trendy neighbourhood of Jericho, located just north of the city centre. With its quieter, more residential feel, Jericho offers the perfect blend of tranquillity and convenience. From cosy B&Bs to stylish vacation rentals, you’ll find a selection of accommodations that make you feel right at home in this charming corner of Oxford.
Peaceful Retreats On Abingdon Road & Botley. Seeking serenity amidst the city bustle? Abingdon Road and the Botley Area offer the perfect peaceful escape just a stone’s throw from the city centre. With their tranquil surroundings and convenient location, you’ll find a selection of budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs that provide a cosy home away from home during your Oxford adventure. Soak in the peaceful ambience and recharge your batteries in these idyllic retreats!
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Brilliance In Cambridge
Get ready to embark on an adventure in Cambridge, where history, innovation, and a whole lot of fun collide! From the stunning medieval architecture of the University of Cambridge to the serene riverbanks along the Cam, this city is like a playground for the curious mind and the adventurous spirit. Soak up the intellectual vibes as you stroll through centuries-old college courtyards, then hop aboard a punt and glide along the river while soaking in the sights.
Don’t forget to snap a selfie at iconic landmarks like the King’s College Chapel before indulging in some afternoon tea fit for royalty. Whether you’re exploring world-class museums or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this dynamic city, Cambridge promises an unforgettable adventure filled with history, brilliance, and endless opportunities for fun!
Beautiful view of Cambridge city on the River Cam
Explore The Best Of Cambridge
Best Places To Stay In Cambridge
Cambridge City Centre. The city centre is the heart of Cambridge and provides easy access to many attractions, including the University of Cambridge colleges, museums, and historic sites. Accommodation in Cambridge City can be more expensive, but it offers proximity and convenience to key sights.
Vibrant Mill Road. Consider staying in the Mill Road location for a vibrant, diverse neighbourhood with a lively atmosphere. It’s known for its electric mix of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. There are small guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, or short-term rental apartments for a more unique stay.
Chilled Vibes In Chesterton. If you’re looking for a quieter place to stay in Cambridge, Chesterton is a residential area north of the city centre with easy access to the River Cam. It’s a pleasant area for those who enjoy a more tranquil environment. As it is primarily a residential area, there are limited hotel selections, but you’ll find a few cool guesthouses.
My Hotel Picks:
Birmingham: A Burst Of Vibrancy
Birmingham is in the heart of England, a city pulsing with history, innovation, and cultural diversity. Here, sleek architecture and lively neighbourhoods intertwine, offering visitors a taste of everything from global cuisines in the Balti Triangle to the dynamic energy of its thriving art scene. But beyond its impressive landmarks and culinary delights, the warm hospitality and welcoming spirit define Birmingham, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure in England.
Sunset view of brick buildings alongside a water channel in central Birmingham
Top Sights To Explore In Birmingham
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Birmingham’s Hot Spots
Birmingham City Centre. Stay in Birmingham city centre for a vibrant atmosphere. It’s near Birmingham’s major attractions, shopping districts, restaurants, and nightlife. The Bullring Shopping Centre and Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery are also in the city centre. There’s a selection of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly accommodation.
Jewellery Quarter Area. This historic area is known for its creative vibe, with numerous jewellery shops, art galleries, and artisan workshops. It offers a unique blend of heritage and modernity and is far from the city centre. There’s a great selection of places to stay in this location.
Creative Digbeth. The Digbeth area is Birmingham’s creative and cultural quarter, known for its street art, independent music venues, and art spaces. It’s a trendy area with a growing number of bars and restaurants, making it a good choice for those seeking a vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find hotels and apartments to suit different preferences and budgets.
Broad Street. For parties and entertainment, stay in the Broad Street location. This area in Birmingham is known for its bars, clubs, theatres, and restaurants; it’s also close to the Brindley Place waterfront development. A few boujee hotels and serviced apartments are within walking distance.
My Hotel Picks:
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Manchester: The Heart Of Creativity
Welcome to Manchester, the beating heart of England’s North, where resilience meets creativity in a city bursting with cultural diversity and vibrant energy. From its red-brick architecture to its historical warehouses, Manchester is a testament to innovation, boasting world-class football clubs Manchester United and Manchester City. But it’s not just about sports – Manchester’s thriving music and arts scene has given rise to iconic bands like The Smiths and Oasis, making it a legendary destination for music lovers.
With its dynamic neighbourhoods, legendary music venues, and rich cultural heritage, Manchester promises an unforgettable experience for visitors from near and far wanting to explore England.
Manchester Town Hall
Must-See Attractions In Manchester
Awesome Areas To Stay In Manchester
Manchester City Center. The city is within walking distance of many of Manchester’s attractions, shopping districts, restaurants, and nightlife. It’s a convenient choice for business and leisure travellers. It is one of the primary locations for accommodations in Manchester, with a wide variety of upscale hotels and serviced apartments.
Luxury Spinningfields. This upscale area in Manchester is known for its modern architecture, fine-dining restaurants, and high-end shops. It’s also home to business districts, making it suitable for business travellers. There is an excellent selection of boujee hotels in this area.
Creativity In Ancoats. Located just a short distance from Manchester city centre, Ancoats is a rapidly gentrifying area with a mix of industrial heritage and modern developments. It’s home to cultural venues, trendy cafes, boutique hotels and restaurants. Recently, Ancoats has become increasingly popular for its artsy and creative atmosphere, making it a trendy and sought-after area to live and visit.
My Hotel Picks:
Get Ready For York Charm
Step into a world of history and charm in York, where every cobblestone tells a story! This medieval gem is a feast for the senses, from the towering York Minster to the enchanting Shambles.
But wait, there’s more! York isn’t just about ancient architecture – it’s also a hub of vibrant culture and culinary delights. Get ready to be wowed by this charming city in England, with its lively theatres, intriguing museums, and a food scene that’ll leave your taste buds tingling! From cosy pubs serving up hearty fare to fancy restaurants boasting Michelin stars, there’s something to tickle every palate in this gastronomic paradise.
A view over the town of Knaresborough from the castle grounds in Yorkshire
Fun Things To Do In York
Unwind In Style In York
City Center. York’s top attractions, including York Minster, The Shambles, and the city walls, are all located in the heart of York in the City Centre. Staying here provides easy access to these attractions, alongside other landmarks and dining selections. There are numerous hotels, guesthouses, and boutique accommodations in the area.
The Shambles Area. The Shambles area provides a unique and charming experience with easy access to shops, restaurants and attractions. This picturesque street in the city centre is lined with timber-framed buildings. Accommodations along or near The Shambles range from boutique hotels to lodges and holiday rentals.
Lively Area Of Micklegate. This is a lively area just outside the city’s walls. It’s a bustling street with many pubs, restaurants, and shops. It’s a short walk from the city centre and offers many cool accommodation setups like suites.
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That’s A Wrap!
England is a highly sought-after destination for travellers worldwide. Whether you want to see a West End show, go wild at Glastonbury, or visit the home of the Royal family, England offers a fantastic range of experiences that appeal to a diverse audience.
Alternatively, how about something different? Trainline offers a good selection of trains to Europe from London to cities like Paris, Amsterdam and Italy. How cool would that be, ey?
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