ByBus Travel Experts
Must-See British Cities for Your Travel List
Are you itching to explore the UKs most beloved attractions but overwhelmed by the choices? We've scoured the country for you, compiling a list of the top 10 must-visit tourist spots. From historic jewels to cities that captivate hearts worldwide, get ready to add these wonders to your UK travel bucket list!
London
A city where history and modernity blend seamlessly, offering something for everyone. With landmarks like the Tower of London and the London Eye, it's a place that merges its rich past with vibrant contemporary life. Whether you're exploring its world-class museums, browsing through colourful markets, or relaxing in its green parks, London offers a diverse range of experiences. It's the perfect destination for those looking to soak in culture and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of one of the worlds most iconic cities.
What to see in London
Tower of London: A UNESCO Wprld Heritage Site, housing the Crown Jewels.
Buckingham Palace: The iconic residence of the British Monarch.
British Museum: Over two million years of history and culture, discover a treasure trove of world artefacts.
Where to eat in London
Breakfast: Regency Café, Westminster
Iconic, retro café offering a classic English breakfast, known for its no-frills charm and generous portions.
Lunch: Beigel Bake, Brick Lane
Famous 24-hour bakery serving up freshly baked, delicious bagels with a variety of fillings.
Dinner: Flat Iron Square, Southwark
A Vibrant food market with a diverse array of street food vendors offering tasty options from around the world
Top tip for visiting London
Consider visiting one of the famous weekend markets. Borough Market is a foodie's paradise, while the quirky and vibrant Camden Market is perfect for those interested in alternative fashion, unique artwork, and vintage finds.
Edinburgh
Discover the charm of Edinburgh, where medieval beauty meets a lively cultural scene. Stroll through the historic Royal Mile, explore the majestic Edinburgh Castle, and soak in panoramic views from Arthur's Seat. Edinburgh is a city of festivals, literature, and welcoming pubs, perfect for those who love history and people.
What to see in Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle: Dominating the skyline, this historic fortress offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's turbulent past.
Royal Mile: The heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, packed with historical sites, quaint shops, and atmospheric pubs.
Arthur's Seat: For a bit of nature, this ancient volcano provides panoramic views of the city and is an ideal spot for hiking.
Where to eat in Edinburgh
Breakfast: The Elephant House
Known as the "birthplace of Harry Potter," offering a cosy atmosphere for coffee and breakfast.
Lunch: Oink
Famous for its succulent hog roast sandwiches, a must-visit!
Dinner: The Witchery by the Castle
Scottish fine dining in an enchanting setting, ideal for a memorable evening.
Top tip for visiting Edinburgh
Chase the ghostly tales and hidden secrets by joining a nighttime ghost tour. It's a thrilling way to explore the city's historic nooks and crannies.
Manchester
A powerhouse of innovation and music. Manchester is known for its influential music scene, world-famous football clubs, and groundbreaking industrial heritage - it's a city that thrives on creativity and sport. From the trendy Northern Quarter to the impressive Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester is a must-visit for vibrant urban life.
What to see in Manchester
John Ryland’s Library: Architectural beauty meets literary treasure in this stunning library, home to rare texts and manuscripts.
Old Trafford: A must-visit for football fans, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Manchester United's iconic stadium.
Science and Industry Museum: Showcasing Manchester’s industrial heritage with interactive exhibits and historical machinery.
Where to eat in Manchester
Breakfast: Federal Cafe & Bar A very popular spot for brunch, known for its great coffee and modern dishes at good prices.
Lunch: Rudy's Neapolitan Pizza Celebrated for its authentic, wood-fired pizzas, offering a slice of Italy at friendly prices.
Dinner: Mackie Mayor A food market housed in a beautifully restored building, providing a variety of dining options in a vibrant atmosphere.
Top tip for visiting Manchester
Hit the Northern Quarter to find the city’s coolest street art, pubs, vintage shops, and indie cafes.
Birmingham
The home of the Peaky Blinders! Birmingham is a melting pot of cultures, with no shortage of culinary delights, art, and history. Explore the labyrinth of canals, visit the Botaqnical Gaardens, or indulge in shopping at the Bullring. Birmingham's diverse community and lively atmosphere make it a uniquely welcoming city.
What to see in Birmingham
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery: Known for its Pre-Raphaelite paintings and extensive collections.
Cadbury World: A treat for chocolate lovers, exploring the history of Cadbury and chocolate making.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens: A serene escape from the city, with beautifully landscaped gardens and exotic plants.
Where to eat in Birmingham
Breakfast: Yorks Café
Excellent coffee and breakfast options with a lively ambience.
Lunch: Original Patty Men
Serves inventive gourmet burgers in a cool, casual setting.
Dinner: Digbeth Dining Club
Multi-Award winning street food in one of the most vibrant and busiest bars in the city.
Top tip for visiting Birmingham
Explore the Jewellery Quarter to find unique handmade jewellery and dive into the area's rich industrial heritage.
Glasgow
Glasgow stands out with its striking architecture, dynamic music scene, and renowned art galleries. Friendly and forward-thinking, it's a city where culture flourishes. Don't miss the impressive Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the lively West End, and the chance to experience it’s legendary live music venues.
What to see in Glasgow
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: This stunning museum houses an eclectic collection from natural history to art.
West End: Discover the quirky side of Glasgow with its eclectic bars and vintage shops.
Glasgow Cathedral: A magnificent example of Gothic architecture, steeped in history.
Where to eat in Glasgow
Breakfast: Café Strange Brew
A quirky spot with a creative breakfast menu, loved for it’s friendly service and delicious dishes.
Lunch: Paesano Pizza
Provides an authentic Neapolitan pizza experience, combining quality with value.
Dinner: The Gannet
A place for modern Scottish cuisine that focuses on local produce.
Top tip for visiting Glasgow
Plan to catch a live performance at King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, a legendary venue where many famous bands have been discovered.
Liverpool
A city with a heart as big as it’s musical legacy! The birthplace of The Beatles, boasting historic docks, Liverpool Cathedral, and the immersive Beatles Story museum. Liverpool's vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage make it an unforgettable stop.
What to see
Albert Dock: A vibrant area filled with museums, galleries, and eateries, housed in beautifully restored dockyards.
The Beatles Story: An immersive journey into the life and music of the Beatles.
Liverpool Cathedral: The largest cathedral in the UK, offering stunning views from its tower.
Where to eat in Liverpool
Breakfast: The Brunch & Cocktail Club
Known for its extensive brunch menu and vibrant atmosphere, a great start to the day.
Lunch: Mowgli Street Food
A fresh take on Indian cuisine, perfect for a flavorful and affordable lunch.
Dinner: Maray
Inspired by the flavours of the Middle East, it’s perfect for an evening of shared plates in a lively setting.
Top tip for visiting Livepool
Check out The Cavern Club, the birthplace of The Beatles. It's a pilgrimage for music fans and a fun spot for a night out.
Newcastle
Newcastle is a gem in the northeast, known for its warm hospitality, the iconic Millennium Bridge, and a rich Roman history. The city's bustling Quayside, vibrant arts scene and historic Newcastle Castle offer a mix of old and new. It's a city that's both friendly and full of surprises.
What to see in Newcastle
Hadrian’s Wall: Explore the remnants of Roman Britain along this ancient defensive fortification.
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art: A landmark for modern art lovers, housed in a converted mill on the river Tyne.
Newcastle Castle: Discover the city's history through this medieval fortification, offering views over Newcastle.
Where to eat in Newcastle
Breakfast: The Factory Kitchen
A trendy setting for a morning coffee and breakfast, known for quality ingredients and dishes.
Lunch: The Grainger Market
A historic market with a wide range of food stalls, offering something for everyone at great prices.
Dinner: Peace and Loaf
Known for its innovative British cuisine, providing a fine dining experience.
Top tip for visiting Newcastle
Walk across the Millennium Bridge at dusk when it's beautifully lit up for stunning views of the city.
Cambridge
Cambridge is synonymous with academic excellence, stunning architecture, and serene landscapes. Punt along the River Cam, marvel at the Gothic splendour of King's College Chapel, and wander through the city's quaint passages. Cambridge offers a peaceful visit with lots of opportunity to soak in the history.
What to see in Cambridge
King’s College Chapel: Famous for its stunning fan vault ceiling, stained glass windows, and Gothic architecture, it's a masterpiece of English craftsmanship.
Fitzwilliam Museum: Home to a vast collection of art and antiquities, from ancient Egypt to the 21st century.
The Mathematical Bridge: A wooden boltless bridge designed in 1748 that still stands today.
Where to eat in Cambridge
Breakfast: Fitzbillies
Famous for its Chelsea buns and traditional English breakfast, a Cambridge institution.
Lunch: Smokeworks
Offers a modern take on BBQ with quick service, great for a flavorful lunch break.
Dinner: The Cambridge Brew House
Combines craft beer with hearty meals, perfect for a relaxed evening meal.
Top tip for visiting Cambridge
Renting a punt for a leisurely journey along the River Cam is a must. It's the best way to see the famous Cambridge University colleges in all their glory from a unique view on the water.
Bristol
A city of innovation, art, and maritime history, Bristol has a creative spirit that's palpable in its streets. From the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge to the historic ships at the harborside, Bristol is vibrant and full of energy. Its thriving street art scene, including works by Banksy, adds a modern twist to it’s rich history.
What to see in Bristol
Clifton Suspension Bridge: One of the world’s oldest surviving suspension bridges offering spectacular views of the Avon Gorge, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.
SS Great Britain: Another Brunel masterpiece, step aboard the world's first great ocean liner.
Bristol Museum and Art Gallery: A diverse collection ranging from local history to international art.
Where to eat in Bristol
Breakfast: Spicer & Cole
Excellent coffee and pastries - ideal for a peaceful start to the day.
Lunch: St Nicholas Market
Explore a variety of global cuisines at this vibrant market, perfect for an adventurous and affordable lunch.
Dinner: Pieminister
Specialises in gourmet pies, a delicious and budget-friendly option for dinner.
Top tip for visiting Bristol
Graffiti hunt in Stokes Croft to uncover Banksy originals and other vibrant street art.
York
A city encased in ancient walls, is a treasure trove of history. With its stunning York Minster, atmospheric Shambles, and the immersive Viking Centre, York transports visitors back in time. It's a city where history is alive, and every cobblestone tells a story.
What to see in York
York Minster: One of the largest and most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world.
The Shambles: A well-preserved medieval street, offering a glimpse into York's past and lots of shopping opportunities.
Jorvik Viking Centre: An immersive experience into Viking-era York, based on archaeological findings from the site.
Where to eat in York
Breakfast: Brew & Brownie
An independent café known for its breakfast and speciality coffee, offering a cosy start to the day.
Lunch: Shambles Market Food Court
A collection of food stalls offering tasty, affordable meals in the heart of historic York.
Dinner: Skosh
A modern dining experience with small plates, perfect for an evening of culinary exploration without a big price tag.
Top tip for visiting York
Take a walk around the ancient city walls, the full circuit is about 2 miles long and provides panoramic views of York Minster, the old city, and its surroundings. Walking the walls is a free, leisurely way to explore York, allowing you to appreciate the city's medieval architecture and defences at your own pace.
Each city brings its own unique stories, architecture, and experiences, making them all worth a visit for those looking to explore the rich history of the UK!
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