30 UK Bucket List Ideas & Places to Visit (2024) (2024)

As the country I’ve lived in my whole life, I may be biased, but for a relatively small country I think the UK has an awful lot to offer. We may not have the best weather and we may be famed for our grey cloudy skies; but there are plenty of incredible activities to add to your UK bucket list.

Whether you’re after epic scenery, a culture hit, or an outdoorsy activity – believe me when I say that the UK has it all.

I’ve spent my whole life exploring the UK, including the world-famous tourist attractions and the hidden corners known only to locals.

From civilised afternoons through to adrenaline pumping activities, here are 30 amazing UK bucket list ideas that I know you’re going to love.

1. Enjoy afternoon tea in London

Location: London, England

Best for: A civilised afternoon

I don’t think there’s a better place to start than with a classic British tradition: afternoon tea.

You can enjoy afternoon tea just about anywhere in the UK. But for a real bucket list addition, afternoon tea at one of the famous London locations is a must.

Don your gladrags and head to one of the glamorous London high tea spots. There is plenty of choice but my personal favourites are as follows:

• The Savoy – for a world-famous afternoon tea experience
• The Ritz – for elegance and class with a resident pianist and harpist
• Fortnum & Mason – for over 300 years of afternoon tea expertise
• Claridge’s – for a truly traditional afternoon tea
• Sketch – for a modern twist on high tea and bold interior design

Or for a fun activity, check out the below tours. I’d recommend booking in advance as these activities often sell out:

• Kensington Palace Gardens Tour with Royal High Tea
• Afternoon Tea Bus with a Glass of Prosecco
• Afternoon Tea Cruise on the River Thames
• Three Palaces Guided Walking Tour and High Tea
• Harry Potter Walking Tour with Magical Afternoon Tea

More things to do in London

There is so much to see and do in London that I know it can feel overwhelming. Start with my guide to the 20 top tourist attractions in London.

Where to stay in London

If you’re planning to stay over in England’s capital city and need inspiration on where to stay, discover my London hotel guides:

• 20 best luxury hotels in London
• 15 best spa hotels in London for a relaxing spa break
• 14 best London hotels for solo travellers

2. Go punting in Cambridge

Location: Cambridge, England

Best for: A warm, rain-free day

Another activity that is unique to the UK is punting. A punt is a flat-bottomed boat that is moved along by pushing off the river bed with a long pole.

One of the original and most popular punting locations is in Cambridge, along the River Cam. I love Cambridge and think it makes such a wonderful UK city break.

Have a laugh with a self-guide punt along the river, or I’d recommend enjoying a more relaxing experience with a chauffeured punt.

A perfect activity for the warmer summer months, I don’t think there’s a better way to spend a sunny afternoon than floating down the river in a city as beautiful as Cambridge.

Book a guided punting tour

More things to do in Cambridge

Cambridge is an utter delight to visit, with its historic architecture, quaint streets and world-renowned universities.

From cosy cafés and afternoon tea to relaxing spas and outdoor activities, discover my Cambridge guides:

• 18 best cafés in Cambridge
• 20 amazing things to do in Cambridge
• 15 delicious breakfast and brunch spots in Cambridge
• 10 incredible spas in Cambridge for a relaxing spa break
• 15 lovely afternoon tea spots in Cambridge

Where to stay in Cambridge

My personal favourite place to stay in Cambridge is the grand University Arms Hotel. The rooms are spacious, the decor is delightful and the opulent freestanding bathtubs are a real highlight.

For more inspiration, have a read of my guide to the best hotels in Cambridge.

3. Walk the Seven Sisters Cliffs

Location: East Sussex, England

Best for: Epic scenery

An iconic site, the Seven Sisters are a series of chalk cliffs situated in the South Downs National Park. To take in the beautiful landscapes and sea views, I’d recommend hiking one of the many available trails.

There are a number of stunning view points, with the most popular being Beachy Head in Eastbourne. Seven Sisters is the epitome of rural England with its idyllic countryside and charming villages.

Hiking aside, I’d also suggest going paddleboarding in the Seven Sisters Country Park, or simply relaxing on the beach.

Best tours and activities

To make the most of the area, I recommend booking a guided tour or activity. Here are my favourites:

• From London: Seven Sisters and South Downs Full-Day Tour
• From London: Brighton & Seven Sisters Small-Group Tour
• From Brighton: Seven Sisters Boat Tour
• Explore Seven Sisters Country Park on E-Bike

Where to stay nearby

To make the most of your visit, stay in nearby Eastbourne – discover my guide to the best hotels in Eastbourne.

My personal favourite place to stay is the stunning Port Hotel. The interiors are impeccable and its location right on the seafront is utterly dreamy.

Good to know: It’s imperative that you don’t get too close to the cliff edge. It can be tempting to peer over to see the view, but the cliffs are vulnerable to erosion so it’s really not worth the risk.

4. Pay a visit to Windsor Castle

Location: Windsor, England

Best for: A royal day out

As one of the top attractions outside of London, I have no doubt that Windsor Castle should be on your UK bucket list.

Bursting with over 900 years of royal history, Windsor Castle is both the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world.

Open to visitors for most of the year, you can tour open areas of the castle. These include St George’s Chapel, the State Apartments, the Semi-State Rooms, and The Middle Ward and Round Tower.

It was until recently home to the late Queen Elizabeth II, so I know it has a special place in everyone’s hearts.

Best tours and activities in Windsor

Windsor is a charming English town that’s steeped in royal heritage. I think it’s well worth exploring for a day or two–here are some of the top tours to book:

• Windsor 40-Minute Return Boat Trip
• Windsor Castle Admission Ticket
• From London: Full-Day Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour

Where to stay in Windsor

If you fancy staying in Windsor for a night or two – and I really recommend that you do– here is my pick of the best hotels:

• Fairmont Windsor Park – for five star luxury
• Royal Adelaide Hotel –for a highly-rated boutique hotel
• Castle Hotel Windsor – for a historic hotel in a grand Georgian building

5. Explore the Cotswolds

Location: The Cotswolds, England

Best for: Experiencing rural England

For open landscapes that will take your breath away, look no further than the rolling countryside and honey-coloured cottages of the Cotswolds. It’s no secret that I absolutely adore the Cotswolds

Its status as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) tells you all you need to know. The Cotswolds is a top UK bucket list item because it is exceptionally pretty and there is so much to do.

I really don’t think there is anywhere quite like it. Towns and villages of the Cotswolds ooze with fairytale charm and enchanting tranquillity.

Whether you’re after a relaxing escape in the heart of rural England, or fun outdoorsy activities, there are plenty of things to do in the Cotswolds.

I’d recommend adding the following Cotswolds spots to your UK bucket list:

• Castle Combe –for a village stood still in time.
• Bibury –to see the postcard-perfect Arlington Row.
• Bourton-on-the-Water –affectionately known as “The Venice of the Cotswolds”.
• Burford–hide away in cosy pubs and charming tea rooms.
• Stow-on-the-Wold – for a quintessential English town.
• Upper Slaughter –a secluded, tranquil village.
• Lower Slaughter – visit Britain’s most romantic street.
• Cirencester –an excellent base for exploring The Cotswolds.

Where to eat in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds has a strong reputation for its culinary offering, so I think it’s perfect for avid foodies. Discover my guides to the culinary scene of the Cotswolds:

• 15 best brunch spots in The Cotswolds
• 15 amazing spots for afternoon tea in The Cotswolds
• 21 incredible restaurants in The Cotswolds

Where to stay in the Cotswolds

Hotels in the Cotswolds are some of my favourites in the whole of the UK. Think charming country houses, indulgent spas in the heart of the countryside and restaurants serving local, homegrown produce.

Have a read of my guide to the best luxury hotels in the Cotswolds or discover my pick of the top Cotswolds spa breaks.

6. Visit the Natural History Museum

Location: London, England

Best for: A free London attraction

A world-renowned museum, I’d say that London’s Natural History Museum cannot be missed from your UK bucket list.

Fun for kids and adults alike, you’ll find unique collections, incredible specimens, and interactive activities. All housed within a spectacular and iconic building.

The museum is free to visit so there’s really no excuse not to go. Before you visit, I’d recommend checking out any workshops or talks being held, as these are always fascinating and informative.

Book a guided tour of the Natural History Museum.

Good to know: On the last Friday of every month, the museum holds Lates where you can buy a drink of your choice to take around with you. What’s better than exploring the Natural History Museum? Exploring with a glass of wine in hand!

7. See the ponies of the New Forest

Location: New Forest, England

Best for: Getting back to nature

The New Forest is a national park comprising ancient woodland, open moors, and plenty of wildlife –it’s another of my favourite regions in the UK.

It’s a peaceful and beautiful place to visit, so it’s no wonder that it’s an incredibly popular holiday destination.

Home to some fantastic hotels and spas, as well as plenty of outdoor activities, the New Forest is a must-visit.

Foodies will love the cuisine on offer at the best restaurants in the New Forest, with many focused on fresh, locally sourced produce.

Some of my favourite towns and villages in the New Forest are as follows:

• Brockenhurst – be sure to stop by The Pig for an outstanding lunch.
• Lyndhurst –for easy access to and from London.
• Beaulieu – petrol heads will love the National Motor Museum.
• Lymington –soak up the charming coastal vibes.
• Burley – for spotting the iconic New Forest ponies.

Famous for its ponies, a visit to the New Forest wouldn’t be complete without seeing these hardy animals.

The New Forest pony is a recognised breed of its own, and they are valued for their strength and vigour.

Discover other things to do in the New Forest and the best luxury hotels in the New Forest in my guides.

8. Spend a weekend hiking the Lake District

Location: Lake District, England

Best for: Outdoor activities

For spectacular scenery and an abundance of outdoor activities, I know you’re going to love the Lake District.

From towering peaks and beautiful valleys to rolling hills and enticing bodies of water, the Lake District offers truly jaw-dropping natural beauty.

There is plenty to do in the Lake District, whether it’s walking, cycling, kayaking, paddle boarding, tree swinging, or swimming. Believe me when I say that it’s an absolute haven for outdoor lovers!

Add to that some truly exceptional places to eat and stay, as well as the opportunity to spot all manner of wildlife – and it’s easy to see why the Lake District is such a popular UK travel bucket list destination.

If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful part of the UK, have a read of some of my area guides:

• 20 pretty villages and towns in the Lake District
• 15 breathtaking waterfalls in the Lake District
• 21 amazing afternoon tea spots in the Lake District
• Hotel reviews: Gilpin Lake House, Storrs Hall and Brimstone Hotel

Best tours and activities

Discover my pick of the best Lake District tours:

• Lake District: Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour
• Lake District: Beatrix Potter Half-Day Tour
• Lake District: Afternoon Tour from Windermere
• From London: Lake District Tour with Cream Tea & Cruise

9. Tour the Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland

Location: Northern Ireland

Best for: Game of Thrones fans

Northern Ireland is a fantastic UK bucket list destination for Game of Thrones fans. The majority of the popular television series was filmed in Northern Ireland and visitors can enjoy tours of the filming locations.

Even if you aren’t a Game of Thrones fan, I think many of the filming locations are worth a visit in their own right.

From historic castles to rugged coastlines, you’ll find some seriously impressive scenery in Northern Ireland. Whether it’s the Dark Hedges or Cushendun Caves, there are plenty of amazing sights to see.

Best tours and activities

Discover my pick of the best Game of Thrones tours in Northern Ireland:

• Game of Thrones Studio Tour Admission Ticket
• From Dublin: Game of Thrones Studio Tour with Transfer
• From Dublin: Full-Day Game of Thrones Filming Locations Tour

Good to know: It’s also possible to do a self-guided tour of the key Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland. You will need a car for this though.

10. Experience the fastest zipline in the world (if you dare)

Location: Penrhyn Quarry, Wales

Best for: Adrenaline junkies

This is an absolute UK bucket list must for the adrenaline junkies like me. Wales is home to the world’s fastest zipline, Velocity 2, shooting you through the air at up to 100mph.

It’s about as close as you’ll get to flying and you can also take in spectacular views over the mountains of Wales.

Perhaps not one for the faint-hearted, but you surely can’t beat the exhilarating thrill of whizzing over the land. An unmissable bucket list activity for the adventurer.

11. Learn how the Harry Potter films were made

Location: Watford, Hertfordshire

Best for: Harry Potter fans

A magical day out at the Warner Bros Studio Tour, take a step into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and learn how the popular films were made.

Explore the iconic sets and find out how they made the magic come to life. Open the doors to The Great Hall, explore the Forbidden Forest, and wander down Diagon Alley.

See the incredible costumes and discover the extensive collection of expertly crafted props – from the Sorting Hat to the broomsticks.

Find out how the special and visual effects teams made the characters fly, and how the art department created the jaw-dropping sets.

As a Harry Potter fan myself, I absolutely loved my visit to the Warner Bros Studio and I’d love to go back at some point!

Best Warner Bros Studio tours

As a very popular attraction near London, I highly recommend that you book tickets in advance.

You can either just book an admission ticket, or combine it with transfer options and other day trips:

• From London: Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour
• Harry Potter Studios & Private Transfer from Central London
• London: Harry Potter Studio Tour and Oxford Day Trip
• London: Fully-Guided Making of Harry Potter Tour

Good to know: Potter fans will also love my guide to the best Harry Potter things to do in Edinburgh.

12. Witness the Changing of the Guard

Location: Buckingham Palace, London

Best for: British pomp and ceremony

Changing of the Guard is a formal ceremony at Buckingham Palace where The King’s Guard hands over responsibility for protecting the palaces to the New Guard.

It’s an event of traditional British pomp and military ceremony and I think it’s definitely worth seeing if you’re in the area.

The Changing of the Guard takes place at Buckingham Palace every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 10:45AM. It lasts for around 45 minutes.

If it’s wet weather then note that it can be cancelled right at the last minute.

It’s free to watch and no tickets are required, but you can book various guided tours and tickets for Buckingham Palace:

• Changing of the Guard Walking Tour
• Changing of the Guard & Buckingham Palace Ticket
• Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour

Good to know: Make sure you don’t get in the way of the Guards as they march, as they won’t stop! The ceremony also takes place at Windsor Castle, if you’re ever in the area.

13. Explore Snowdonia National Park

Location: Wales

Best for: Epic scenery

Snowdonia National Park is 823 square miles of beautiful scenery and I think it’s well worth exploring.

As the adventure capital of North Wales, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, whether it’s walking the extensive hiking trails or cycling and golf.

For more adrenaline-fuelled adventures, try white water rafting, paragliding, or rock climbing.

A hotspot of breathtaking natural beauty, Snowdonia has over 50 lakes and 15 peaks over 3000ft in height.

You’ll also find an array of beaches, sand dunes, castles, and railways, as well as a rich cultural heritage with various Roman ruins.

Best tours and activities in Snowdonia

There are plenty of tours and activities available to book in Snowdonia – from castles and kayaking to gardens and hiking, these are my favourites:

• Portmeirion, Snowdonia & Castle Tour
• Snowdonia: Llyn Padarn Guided Family Kayaking Adventure
• From Llandudno: Snowdonia & the Three Castles Tour
• Snowdonia National Park: Snowdon Sunrise Guided Hiking Tour
• Snowdonia, Bodnant Gardens & Castles Private Tour

Where to stay in Snowdonia

Here is my pick of the best hotels in and around Snowdonia:

• Palé Hall, Bala
• The Tilman, Barmouth
• Lansdowne House, Llandudno

Good to know: You can of course climb Mount Snowdon. I’d recommend researching the best routes before you climb, especially if you’re a beginner. And pack accordingly so that you’re prepared!

14. Visit the magical Fairy Pools in Isle of Skye

Location: Isle of Skye, Scotland

Best for: A natural waterfall phenomenon

Located at Glenbrittle on Isle of Skye in Scotland, the Fairy Pools are famous for their crystal clear spring water.

The magical turquoise blue of the waters – fed from a series of waterfalls – are an unusual sight in the UK.

For those feeling brave, you can swim in the enchanting natural rock pools. But I’d only recommend this for the most adventurous of swimmers, as the water is icy cold. A wetsuit is definitely advisable!

Browse hotels in Isle of Skye.

Best Isle of Skye Fairy Pools tours to book:

• From Inverness: Isle of Skye and Fairy Pools Day Trip
• From Inverness: Isle of Skye Scenery Tour with Fairy Pools
• Isle Of Skye And The Fairy Pools: 3-Day Tour from Edinburgh

Good to know: The Fairy Pools are accessible on foot from a nearby carpark.

15. See the bluebells at Micheldever Wood

Location: Micheldever Wood, Hampshire

Best for: Photographers

Micheldever Wood is an ancient woodland located five miles from Winchester in Hampshire. It’s home to a diverse range of birds and insects, including an impressive butterfly population.

You’ll also find an abundance of wildflowers, along with roe and fallow deer roaming the woods.

It’s perhaps most well-known for its beautiful bluebells in the spring and I’d argue that it’s one of the best places to see them in the UK.

Walk one of the many paths through wood and enjoy the tranquillity of the surrounding nature.

Good to know: If you’re a keen photographer then I’d recommend visiting at sunrise or sunset to capture the dappled golden light that enhances the colour of the bluebells.

16. Go surfing at Newquay

Location: Newquay, Cornwall

Best for: Surfing newbies and pros alike

The UK’s surf capital, Newquay has gained a world-renowned reputation for its excellent surfing provisions.

Home to beautiful beaches, Newquay is a popular surfing destination for both beginners and seasoned pros.

Some of the best surfing spots I’d recommend include:

• Fistral Beach
• Watergate Bay
• Constantine
• Towan
• Great Western
• Tolcarne
• The Cribbar (only for the pros!)

Due to its windy climate, Newquay benefits from continuous big waves from the Atlantic Ocean. There are a number of surf schools for those looking to learn or improve their skills.

Best tours and activities in Newquay

I love that Newquay is a haven for outdoor adventures. Here are some of my favourite activities to book:

• Introduction to Surfing Lesson
• Coasteering Adventure
• Surf, Yoga & Woodland Wild Camp

Where to stay in Newquay

Here are some of my favourite hotels to stay in Newquay:

• The Headland Hotel and Spa
• The Lewinnick Lodge
• Watergate Bay Hotel

For more inspiration, read my guide to the best luxury hotels in Cornwall, as well as the best spa breaks in Cornwall.

Good to know: If you’re planning a trip to this gorgeous part of the UK, discover my Cornwall guides:

• 10 best towns in Cornwall to visit
• 15 best seafood restaurants in Cornwall
• 16 best beaches in Cornwall
• 14 best places to go paddleboarding in Cornwall
• 21 things to do in Cornwall in the rain
• 16 best spots for afternoon tea in Cornwall
• 9 beautiful waterfalls in Cornwall

17. Soak in the thermal waters at Bath

Location: Bath, Somerset

Best for: A relaxing city break

The beautiful Georgian city of Bath is famous for its natural thermal springs. Rich in minerals, particularly sulphate, calcium and chloride, the waters are known for their healing qualities.

It’s for this reason that the thermal springs are seen as a centre for wellbeing and relaxation.

Visit the Roman Baths for a more historical experience of the thermal springs. Or for a more modern twist, I’d recommend paying a visit to the Thermae Bath Spa, which includes a rooftop pool with beautiful views over the city.

Where to stay in Bath

The discerning traveller is spoilt for choice with luxury hotels in Bath. Here are some of my favourites:

• No 15 by GuestHouse
• Homewood Hotel & Spa
• Lucknam Park Hotel

Good to know: Bath is right on the edge of the Cotswolds, so I think it’s a great base for exploring the southern parts of the Cotswolds.

18. Take in the scale of Giant’s Causeway

Location: Northern Ireland

Best for: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

A world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, Giant’s Causeway is located on Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route.

Flanked by the North Atlantic Ocean, it’s a dramatic landscape of towering cliffs and rugged coast.

Giant’s Causeway comprises around 40,000 black Basalt columns which were formed following a Volcanic eruption nearly 60 million years ago.

There are a variety of walks available (including guided tours if you’d prefer), all promising jaw-dropping scenery. I’d recommend booking a fully guided day tour to really make the most of your visit.

Good to know: In the Visitor Centre you can learn more about the legend surrounding Giant’s Causeway. Hint: it involves an Irish giant!

19. Visit the Isles of Scilly

Location: Isles of Scilly, near Cornwall

Best for: The UK’s equivalent of the Caribbean

An archipelago off the coast of Cornwall, I think the Isles of Scilly are a truly magical place to visit. There are five inhabited islands with a small population, meaning it is largely uncrowded and untouched.

It’s this isolated characteristic that offers such wonderful appeal. There are extensive coastal paths and natural trails which make for beautiful walks.

The Isles of Scilly could almost be considered the UK’s equivalent of the Caribbean with its white sandy beaches and bright blue ocean. In my opinion, it’s natural beauty at its best.

Where to stay on the Isles of Scilly

Being such a small place, there aren’t a huge number of hotels to choose from. I’d recommend booking into Star Castle Hotel for beautiful views.

Good to know: You can day trip the Isles of Scilly from Cornwall. Travel by sea via a passenger ferry from Penzance or take to the skies by the Skybus or take a helicopter from Penzance.

20. Explore the Jurassic Coast

Location: From Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset

Best for: Fossil hunting

England’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast stretches for 95 miles between Exmouth in East Devon and Old Harry Rocks in Dorset.

It’s famous for its rocks, fossils and landforms, boasting millions of years of geological history. I think the best way to experience it is by taking in the stunning scenery on a long walk.

Explore the dramatic coastline with imposing white cliffs and dilapidated castles. Go fossil hunting, visit a museum, or explore one of the many iconic seaside towns along the route.

Best tours and activities on the Jurassic Coast:

Depending on where you are basing yourself, there are plenty of wonderful tours and activities along the Jurassic Coast.

Here are my top recommendations:

• From Poole: Round-trip Jurassic Coastal Cruise to Swanage
• From Bournemouth: Jurassic Coast & Isle of Purbeck Day Tour
• Poole: Old Harry Rocks and Corfé Castle Guided E-bike Tour

Good to know: If you’re planning a visit to the Jurassic Coast, find a beautiful self-catering cottage in Dorset to stay in.

21. Attend Glastonbury Festival

Location: Glastonbury, Somerset

Best for: Festival goers

A world-famous music festival in Somerset, Glastonbury is a five-day festival attended by around 200,000 people. It celebrates the very best in music, arts and culture.

Headlined by the world’s best pop and rock artists, it is a major music event in British culture. There’s a wide range of music at the festival – from pop and rock to jazz and grime.

You’ll also find a whole array of performing arts, including cabaret, circus, comedy, dance, and theatre. Just be sure to take your Wellies because mud and rain is almost guaranteed – it is England afterall!

Good to know: Tickets for Glastonbury are notoriously hard to come by –I’ve tried several times and never been successful! Make sure you are registered ahead of the event and be ready with as many devices as possible when the ticket sales begin.

Find somewhere to stay in Glastonbury.

22. Visit Hadrian’s Wall

Location: Cumbria & Northumberland

Best for: Fans of Roman history

Built as a defensive barrier to guard the northwestern frontier of the Roman Empire, Hadrian’s Wall stretches 73 miles from coast to coast.

It took over six years to build and is set amongst the stunning scenery of the Cumbrian and Northumbrian landscapes.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can explore the remains of the wall, including the forts, towers and turrets.

I’d recommend visiting the museums to discover the ancient Roman artefacts and learn more about its history.

Best tours of Hadrian’s Wall

To get the most out of your visit, I’d advise booking a guided tour so that you can learn all about the fascinating history:

• Hadrian’s Wall: 2-Hour Guided Tour
• Hadrian’s Wall: 4-Hour Guided Tour
• Hadrian’s Wall & Roman Britain 1-Day Tour from Edinburgh
• Rosslyn Chapel and Hadrian’s Wall Small Group Day Tour

Good to know: George R.R. Martin used Hadrian’s Wall as an inspiration for the Wall in the Game of Thrones series.

23. Enjoy a romantic weekend in York

Location: York

Best for: A romantic getaway

Cobbled streets and quintessentially British: I consider York to be one of the most romantic cities in the UK.

With its Roman roots and Gothic buildings, all surrounded by ancient walls, York boasts a rich history. Yet there is a vibrant range of independent shops and fantastic eateries to explore too.

York is home to The Shambles, one of the most famous mediaeval streets in the world. With a strong cultural identity and an impressive number of museums, there is plenty to do in this fascinating city.

I think it’s perfect for every type of traveller, but its romantic charm makes it the perfect place for a couple’s getaway.

Where to stay in York

As one of the most popular cities to visit in the UK, there are plenty of amazing hotels to choose from. Here are some of my favourites:

• The Grand
• Jorvik House
• Judge’s Lodging

Best tours and activities in York

You’ll be spoilt for choice for activities in York, but some of the best include:

• Guided Cycling Tour of York
• City Highlights Small Group Walking Tour
• Private Bespoke History Walking Tour
• York’s Chocolate Story: Guided Tour

Good to know: If you plan on visiting lots of attractions, then I’d recommend getting the York City Pass. It provides entry to over 20 attractions across the city.

24. Visit the Eden Project

Location: Cornwall

Best for: The UK’s best leisure attraction

Located in a crater the size of 30 football pitches in Cornwall, the Eden Project is an educational charity with the aim of working towards a better, greener future.

It is home to huge tropical biomes which house beautiful gardens and I think it’s a must-visit attraction in Cornwall.

Discover the tropical plants and waterfalls of the Rainforest Biome or explore the lemon trees and olive groves of the Mediterranean Biome.

Consistently recognised as the Best UK Leisure Attraction by the British Travel Awards, a visit to the Eden Project is great for a family day out.

It’s also one of the best things to do in Cornwall when it rains, plus it’s home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Cornwall.

Good to know: Various events are run throughout the year, including workshops, concerts, and activity days –so I’d recommend checking the website before you visit.

25. Wild camp in the Scottish Highlands

Location: Scottish Highlands

Best for: Adventurers

For something a little more adventurous, wild camping in the Scottish Highlands is a must for your UK bucket list.

I think it’s the best way to discover the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland. It’s an opportunity to get off the beaten track and get away from the crowds.

Explore all the scenery on offer, from rugged coast and towering mountains to stunning lakes and peaceful woods.

The hardest part is choosing where to camp, as you are spoilt for choice!

You may have to sacrifice some modern conveniences and put up with a bit of unpredictable weather – but I have no doubt that the rewards will be worth it!

Good to know: Before wild camping, have a read of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

26. Explore Highclere Castle

Location: Newbury, between Berkshire & Hampshire

Best for: Downton Abbey fans

Highclere Castle is widely recognised as the film location for the popular television series Downton Abbey –and I think it’s definitely worth visiting in real-life.

A grand country house in Jacobethan style that is located in Hampshire, five miles south of Newbury in Berkshire.

It was designed by Sir Charles Barry, the architect who also designed the Houses of Parliament in Westminster.

Visitors to Highclere Castle can explore the stately home, along with its expansive grounds and gardens.

Best tours of Highclere Castle

There are a number of tours available which transport you from London or Oxford to Downton Abbey:

• From London: Day Trip to Downton Abbey, Oxford and Bampton
• Downton Abbey and Village Small Group Tour from London
• London: Downton Abbey, Cotswolds, and Highclere Castle Tour
• London: Downton Abbey Countryside Black Taxi VIP Tour
• From Oxford: Downton Abbey and the Cotswolds Full-Day Tour

Good to know: You can even stay on the estate in one of the two converted lodges, which I think would make for a perfect country escape.

27. See the beach huts at Whitstable

Location: Whitstable, Kent

Best for: A cute seaside getaway

Whitstable is a beautiful seaside town in Kent, renowned for its fresh seafood and annual oyster festival.

With pastel-coloured shop fronts and a thriving arts scene, I consider it to be a postcard-perfect English town. The ideal place to soak up some invigorating sea air.

Famous for its colourful beach huts which adorn the coast, they are a must-see feature. They may be small but these wooden shacks come with an excruciatingly high price point – which hints at how sought-after they are!

Discover more things to do in Kent in my guide or browse hotels in Whitstable.

Good to know: I’d recommend visiting Whitstable as the perfect day trip from London and a great way to escape to the city. Direct trains are available from both London St Pancras and London Victoria, and take around one hour and 15 minutes.

28. Visit Longleat Safari Park

Location: Longleat, Warminster

Best for: Animal lovers

Longleat is a grand stately home that sits on 900 acres of landscaped grounds. It’s home to the UK’s number one safari park and I’d recommend it as a great family day out.

There are various attractions to keep everyone entertained, including the Jungle Kingdom and Animal Adventure.

I love that a visit to Longleat Safari Park gives you a chance to get up close and personal with a variety of different animals.

Watch the giraffes and majestic lions amble past, find yourself face-to-face with the cheeky monkeys, and look out for rhino, camel and tigers.

Good to know: Aside from the safari park and animals, you can also explore Longleat House and Grounds. Embark on a guided tour through the stately rooms and marvel at the artwork and intricate tapestries.

29. Wander the Christmas markets

Location: Various

Best for: Getting into the festive spirit

What better way to enter the festive spirit than with a beautiful Christmas market.

The UK has plenty of charming Christmas markets on offer and a visit is a must for your UK bucket list. Some of my favourite Christmas markets in the UK are as follows:

• Bath
• Winchester
• Edinburgh
• York
• Manchester

Enjoy the bustling atmosphere and soak up the sounds and smells as you wind your way through the stalls.

Many Christmas markets also have ice rinks and fairground rides, which are great for keeping kids (and adults!) entertained.

Discover more of the best Christmas markets in Europe in my guide.

30. Visit Canterbury Cathedral

Location: Canterbury, Kent

Best for: History and architecture

With stunning architecture and a rich history, Canterbury Cathedral is a world-famous religious site.

One of the oldest Christian churches in England, it is the Mother Church of the worldwide Anglican Communion and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Take in the grandeur of the cathedral, with its breathtaking size and scale. Go inside where you can visit the Romanesque crypt and see the mediaeval stained glass windows.

There is plenty of history to soak up at this beautiful cathedral. Don’t miss the Great Cloister –I think that walking through it feels like walking through the corridors of Hogwarts!

Good to know: Book your entry ticket with audio guide in advance to skip the queues.

This list could go on but I couldn’t possibly squeeze in every single bucket list worthy activity in the UK. Let me know any of your favourites or recommendations in the comments below!

For more inspiration, have a read of my UK travel guide, discover my guide to glamping in the UK, or seek out the best UK hotels to spend Christmas in.