A trip to the United Kingdom should be on every travel buff’s bucket list. Comprised of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, this beautiful island nation is top-notch in every sense. With historic cities, stunning country side, Scottish highlands, awe-inspiring castles and mansions, rich cultural heritage, amazing architecture, cobbled roads, and lined restaurants, shopping, and fashion spots, there is no dearth of activities to be indulged in while on a trip to this place. For a first time traveler, trip scheduling can be confusing due to the diverse options available. To make your trip hassle-free, we have come up with an incredible list of things to do in the United Kingdom. Read on to find out.
1. Explore ancient Roman ruins including the historic Hadrian’s Wall
Want to learn more about Hadrian’s Wall? Check out the above video where we have a chat with Anisa, a seasoned traveler who explored the historic destination!
This full-day tour from Edinburgh along with an expert guide will help you explore the ancient Roman ruins such as Hadrian’s Wall, Birdoswald Fort, and Steel Rigg along with places like Northumberland National Park, the Irthing Valley, and the Southern Uplands. The tour includes a small group trip to historic villages and you will get to hear about Anglo-Scottish wars that once destroyed the region.
Traveler's tips
Anisa
Thinking of finding a spot to stay close to the wall? Along the route, accommodations are often small, family-run establishments with limited rooms. I stayed at cozy places like Warmald House, Linden House, and Layside, all of which were charming and offered excellent hospitality. One standout was Layside, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking beautiful farmland. Since summer is peak season, make sure to book accommodations well in advance.
Most accommodations offer packed lunches for around 7 – 10 GBP, and they’re worth it. These lunches typically include a sandwich, chips, a drink, fruit, and candy. They’re perfect for days when food stops along the trail are limited or unpredictable. Additionally, the breakfast spreads at these places are substantial, often including a full English breakfast to fuel your day.
2. Dwell in the lap of nature at Malvern Hills and Commons
Posted by Malvern Hills Trust on Thursday, 6 April 2017
Escape to nature at Malvern Hills and Commons. Enjoy the views of the vivid landscapes, hills, and the pure spring water that flows from them. A rich cultural heritage of forts, castles, and priories can also be seen here. You also get to experience wildlife once you are here. From Stonechat, Adder, and Small Copper butterfly to Song Thrush, Pied flycatcher, and Marsh Tit, green woodpeckers, and dung Beetles, the grasslands are home to some unique plants and animals. Gear up to enjoy a complete green experience.
Malvern Hills and Commons
Address: Manor House, Grange Road, Malvern WR14 3EY, United Kingdom
Website: Malvern Hills and Commons
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 1pm, 2pm - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
3. Get a glimpse into the iconic Cambridge University
Get a chance to visit the prestigious Cambridge University along with a university student as your guide. Check out iconic buildings like Trinity College, King’s College, Corpus Christi College, and the Senate House. This 20-member historical tour also provides you an insight into the student life in the university. The tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair as the surfaces are uneven.
4. Experience London in a unique way on the London Eye
One of the most iconic tourist attractions in London, the London Eye offers you a bird’s-eye view of the city’s landmarks. Get into this massive observation wheel and indulge in a great journey that brings London alive through 3D film and multi-sensory effects. Admire panoramic views over the Thames River, Big Ben, and other landmarks on your 30-minute flight. Your ticket includes interactive Samsung Galaxy Tab-powered guides and admission to the London Eye 4D Experience.
Book Tours : London Eye Fast-Track Ticket
5. Visit the unique Stonehenge
Treat your eyes to the famous prehistoric monument in the world, the Stonehenge. You can also visit the new world-class visitor center that includes hundreds of prehistoric objects from the Stonehenge World Heritage Site, a shop, and a café. Erected in around 2500 BC, this impressive linteled stone circle is a masterpiece of engineering. Get a feel of the lifestyle of the Neolithic people who built Stonehenge. This two-hour tour also includes a quick entry ticket.
6. Enter the wizarding world of Harry Potter
Love Harry Porter? Then this tour is all for you. Explore the famous Harry Potter film locations along with some other spectacular views of the city on this private two-and-a-half hour tour. You can choose the morning or afternoon time slot for the tour. Remember how a small group of Death Eaters magically appear across Trafalgar Square on their way to Diagon Alley? Get to see the Trafalgar Square, situated in the City of Westminster and learn more about the iconic attractions in the square, including the National Gallery, Nelson’s Column, the Trafalgar Square lions, and the fountains and statues. You will also stop at the Leadenhall Market, the location for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. This stunning Victorian covered market with a decorative roof is a sight to see. Your guide will keep you engaged and entertained with a range of stories and anecdotes. The tour also includes a stop at the Millennium Bridge, also known as the “Wobbly Bridge.” Also, get to see the King’s Cross Station where students of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry catch the Hogwarts Express. You can also visit some shops selling unique Potter-related items and souvenirs.
7. Do not miss the magnificent York Minster Cathedral
While visiting a historically significant place, it doesn’t hurt to understand a bit of history about it. This applies especially when you are visiting one of England’s most historic cities, York. The stunning medieval-age architecture will take you back in time. Visit the York Minster Cathedral, one of the world’s most outstanding Gothic cathedrals. Book through Klook and grab a York Pass, which offers you free admission to up to 42 of the city’s most renowned attractions and landmarks. Take the tour to make your vacation in England a memorable one.
Book Tours : Yorkshire Dales Day Tour from York - Klook
8. Check out the remarkable Roman Baths
The Roman Baths should be a must-visit spot in your UK travel itinerary. A well-preserved Roman site once used for public bathing, the artifacts, baths, and architecture left behind by the Roman occupiers almost 2,000 years ago will leave you spellbound. This UNESCO-listed city and its Roman and Georgian heritage are simply out of this world. Learn about the history and architecture of the greatest spas of the ancient world. Excellent displays and the audio guide will offer an amazing experience here. You can upgrade to include the baths’ admission fee and get a glimpse into ancient Roman life.
Book Tours : Roman Baths and Bath City Walking Tour
9. Wander in the Maritime Mercantile City in Liverpool
A UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site, the Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City consists of six locations in the city center of Liverpool. This includes Pier Head, Albert Dock, Stanley Dock Conservation Area. Duke Street Conservation Area/ Ropewalks, ‘Commercial Quarter’/Castle Street Conservation Area, and ‘Cultural Quarter’/ William Brown Street Conservation Area. This port played a crucial role in the wealth development of the British Empire. Stroll around and understand the history of the area and see some iconic structures including the Victoria Clock Tower, Walker Art Gallery, World Museum Liverpool, Monument of Edward VII and George’s Dock Ventilation Tower.
Maritime Mercantile City
Address: Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City, Liverpool, North West England, England, United Kingdom
10. Experience the most spectacular Windsor Castle
A visit to the magnificent Windsor Castle will be on every UK traveler’s itinerary. Situated high above the River Thames, the castle has been home to 39 monarchs and is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Take up this tour and explore St. George’s Chapel, the beautiful State Apartments, and the stunning miniature Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House. You can also witness the Changing of the Guard if you are lucky. Book with Klook and enjoy a breezy experience.
Book Tours : Windsor Castle Tickets
11. Explore the largest indoor rainforest in the world
You should not miss this fantastic project once in the UK. The Eden Project includes two biomes that house plants collected from different climates and environments. Situated in a china clay pit, the massive biomes include the largest rainforest, spectacular plants and exhibitions. The project also includes an outside botanical garden which includes a diverse variety of plants and wildlife specific to Cornwall and the UK in general.
Eden Project
Address: Bodelva, Par PL24 2SG, UK
Website: Eden Project
Price: From 35 USD
12. Visit the exquisite Canterbury Cathedral
Go on this full-day tour and explore some unique sights in London. From the medieval Leeds Castle to the stunning Canterbury Cathedral, the mighty White Cliffs of Dover to Royal Greenwich, these important spots will help you to understand maritime history–your day will be packed. You will also cruise along the River Thames, and enjoy iconic landmarks like the Tower Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral. The package also provides lunch packs to save time for more exploration.
13. Tour the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey
Enjoy a four-hour tour of two of London’s impressive monuments, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. Get a taste of the royal history of Great Britain and get lost in the splendor of the iconic structures. The Gothic opulence of Westminster Abbey and the inside sights of the Houses of Parliament, like the House of Commons and Lord’s Chamber, are a must to witness. Your guide will explain about the political system of the United Kingdom along with major historical events while exploring the famous landmarks. Other highlights include visiting the Coronation Chair, the 900-year-old College Garden, and Poets’ Corner.
14. Learn more about the wonders of astronomy, space, and the stars
How fun would it be when you place one foot in the eastern and one in the western hemisphere? Get ready to enjoy the Royal Observatory experience. Visit the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and learn more about the wonders of astronomy, space, and the stars! On this tour, you will visit the Great Equatorial Telescope, the Time Ball, Harrison’s clocks, the Shepherd Gate Clock, and the famous Octagon Room. You can also experience amazing views of London across Greenwich Royal Park, the City of London and the River Thames.
Book Tours : Royal Observatory Greenwich Ticket, London India
15. Walk to Arthur’s Seat
If you love exploring places and a bit of hiking, then Arthur’s Seat is the place for you. This hill covered with lush green grass was formed by an extinct volcano that exploded 350 million years ago. You can take a stroll and enjoy a spectacular view of the city from here. You can also understand the historical, geographical, and mythological significance of the place once you are here. A superb place to escape from the madness of the city, Arthur’s Seat will never disappoint you.
Arthur’s Seat
Address: Edinburgh EH8 8AZ, UK
16. Stroll through Garden of Cosmic Speculation
Inspired by cosmology, landscape architect Charles Jencks’ The Garden of Cosmic Speculation, a 30-acre (12 hectares) sculpture garden is a treat for the eyes. This stunning garden inspired by the principles of modern physics is the finest example of the unconventional approach to landscaping. The unique symmetry and curves of the landscapes, DNA helix sculptures, fences, water cascades, bridges, and terraces, the technique of using nature to celebrate nature are used amazingly well. You have to come here to enjoy this marvelous garden art.
Garden of Cosmic Speculation
Address: 2 Lower Portrack Cottages, Holywood, Dumfries DG2 0RW, United Kingdom
Website: Garden of Cosmic Speculation
Opening hours: Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
17. Enjoy camping at Cairngorms National Park
One of the best things to do in Cairngorms National Park is to enjoy camping. Book in advance and head to this stunning place to spend a day or two. Wake up to the spectacular views and sound of nature once you camp here. The largest national park in Britain, Cairngorms National Park is home to huge mountains, rivers, marshes, evergreen forests, and wildlife. Enjoy activities like fishing and shooting once you are here.
Cairngorms National Park
Address: PH22 1QH, Scotland
Website: Cairngorms National Park
18. Experience The Museum of Witchcraft & Magic
Ever seen witchcraft items? Head straight to the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in the Bocastle village in Cornwall. Housing one of the largest collections of witchcraft, occult, and magic-related items, the museum will pique your curiosity. From charms to herbs, curses and sea witchcraft, crystals, black mirrors, glass knitting needles, and protection talismans, you can see everything related to witchcraft and magic. You can also read books from the museum library if interested.
The Museum of Witchcraft & Magic
Address: The Harbour, Boscastle PL35 0HD, UK
Website: The Museum of Witchcraft & Magic
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10:30am - 6pm; Sun: 11:30am - 6pm
19. Have fun exploring Longleat Hedge Maze
Have you always wished to get lost somewhere? Welcome to Longleat Hedge Maze and you can fulfill your wish. Made of more than 16,000 English yews, it is the longest hedge maze in the world. You will be confused regarding the directions to reach the central observation tower through the mazes and that’s the trick! Have fun exploring the mazes with many dead ends and interesting paths along with six raised bridges. However, the place is inaccessible to wheelchair users.
Longleat Hedge Maze
Address: Warminster BA12 7NW, UK
20. Run away to Isle of Skye
This three-day tour to Isle of Skye and Highlands from Edinburgh will let you travel around rural Scotland. You will get to know about Scotland’s Jacobite Rising at Culloden Battlefield and enjoy a voluntary Loch Ness cruise or Urquhart Castle visit. Enjoy the stunning views over Loch Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh. Get a feel of the peaceful pace of life in Portree, a harbor town on the Isle of Skye. You can also indulge in an optional whiskey distillery tour in Fort William on this tour.
21. Hike through the gorgeous Snowdonia National Park
If you are a hiker, a visit to Snowdonia National Park will make you happy. With extensive trails, lakes, peaks like Cader Idris and Tryfan, and stunning views, the park is a hiker’s and nature lover’s paradise. The slate quarries and hills will take your breath away. For a leisure walk, you can choose Abergwynant Woods, experienced hikers can choose Snowdon Ranger Path or Minffordd Path. If scenic views are your choice, then probably choose the Llyn Tegid. Whichever path you choose, you will never be disappointed.
Snowdonia National Park
Address: LL48 6LF, UK
Website: Snowdonia National Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
22. Enjoy the vibrant Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel
If you are an art lover, you cannot miss Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel. Part of Leake Street Arches, the tunnel is a well-known street art area. This long tunnel was made famous by Banksy, Britain’s famous graffiti artist, after hosting the Cans Festival in 2008. Today, it is a much-loved tourist spot. Situated underneath the Waterloo station, this space is a celebration of urban art and more. The lively restaurants and bars in the tunnel radiate the urban culture in all its sense. This vibrant, unique, and spectacular street gallery is a treat to the eyes.
Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel
Address: Leake Street, London SE1 7NN, England
23. Say a prayer at Temple Church
Photo: Chris Christodoulou
Posted by The Temple Church, London on Friday, 25 January 2013
One of the most beautiful churches in London, the Temple Church should be a must-visit place in your bucket list. This antique marvel is made of Caen stone. Check out the 10 knightly effigies that lie in the old round church. Other things that might interest you are the Norman door with a circle of surreal portrait heads, the colorful stained glass, the stunning wooden altar, and the Gothic architecture. This beautiful and welcoming church with a fascinating history is truly a hidden gem.
Temple Church
Address: Temple, London EC4Y 7BB, UK
Website: Temple Church
24. Visit Sherlock Homes’ 221B Baker Street
A hard-core Sherlock Homes fan can never forget the address, 221B Baker Street. Ever wanted to visit this place? Here’s your chance. Take this tour and visit all the well-known filming locations from the hit Sherlock Holmes series, including 221B Baker Street and other attractions like Big Ben and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Your guide can share in-depth knowledge on the history of London, the book and TV series, and also about Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Highlights include the Sherlock Holmes Pub and a room recreated as Sherlock’s sitting room at 221B Baker Street. You will also visit the restaurant that Holmes and Watson had dinner before they spot a suspicious taxi and run behind it. Other stops include the St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, Russell Square, Speedy’s Sandwich Bar & Café, Sherlock Holmes Statue, and Sherlock Holmes Museum.
25. Relax on a tour of Lake District
Experience some rural sights by taking this full-day spectacular tour from Windermere. Enjoy the beauty of Lake District National Park and understand the history of this remarkable place. Ascend high mountain passes, take a sightseeing cruise, visit a waterfall, and get to see 10 of the most beautiful lakes on this tour. Discover Borrowdale and picturesque villages such as Grasmere, visit Castlerigg Stone Circle and have lunch in the market town of Keswick. Relaxation is guaranteed.
26. Admire scenic views of Taynish National Nature Reserve
Posted by Taynish National Nature Reserve on Thursday, 8 August 2019
Nothing relaxes the senses more than a peaceful walk amidst nature. Taynish National Nature Reserve (NNR) is one such place where the greenery rejuvenates you. The stunning woodland, diverse wildlife, and spectacular views are the highlights here. With lichens and mosses hanging from the trees, the place is a treat to watch in the autumn with the colorful russets, birch, willow, alder, and other flora all around. You can also catch a glimpse of an otter, whooper swans, red squirrels, butterflies, or maybe the Eurasian beaver here. Whatever may be the season, the reserve is a great place to spend some quality time alone or with your dear ones.
Taynish National Nature Reserve
Address: Argyll and Bute, Lochgilphead PA31 8PW, UK
27. Have some fun at Chinatown in London
Once you are in London, spend some time in Chinatown and have fun. Stroll through the streets adorned with lanterns and dragons and marvel at the modern art sculptures and Chinese gates as you discover the area. The streets lined with Chinese restaurants, souvenir shops, and other Chinese stores will make you feel as if you are in China. If you are lucky, you can also witness some seasonal celebrations including the Chinese New Year. With lion dances, stunning parades, food stalls, and live performances, the entire area becomes lively. Get a feel of Chinese heritage, history, and culture once you are here. Do not forget to try some authentic Chinese dishes including puffy fish balls, xiao long bao, crispy duck, and siew yoke.
Chinatown
Address: Gerrard Street & Lisle Street, London W1D 6JW, England
28. Explore Durham Castle, a historical treasure trove
Exploring Durham Castle will offer you an unforgettable experience. The rich historical, architectural, and cultural significance of the castle can be best understood with the help of a guide. This UNESCO protected Norman-style marvel of architecture has 1,000 years of history and many interesting stories associated with it. Make the most of this half-day guided historical tour by strolling around the castle and viewing the 11th-century Durham Cathedral and its Open Treasure.
Book Tours : Durham City Half Day Tour
29. Explore the artifacts at The British Museum
If you are a history buff, you should not miss this tour of The British Museum. With more than 8 million artifacts, this 2.5-hour guided tour is a real deal. It helps you understand the route of civilization and keeps you informed on ancient history. Esoteric topics including germs, mythical gods, and the agricultural revolution, and eclectic artifacts such as the Rosetta Stone, a mechanical solar system, and a two-headed Aztec serpent will definitely keep you engaged.
30. Enjoy a trip to London’s famous art galleries, Tate Modern and Tate Britain
Love art? Head to London’s Tate Britain and Tate Modern to enjoy British and international art. Your expert guide will explain to you the significance of the painting masterpieces by Turner, Constable, Hockney, Picasso, Matisse, and Rothko among others. You can also enjoy a boat trip along the Thames River during the tour of Tate Britain and Tate Modern art galleries.
Book Tours : Private Tour: Tate Britain and Tate Modern
Explore the sights, smells, and sounds of United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is such a vast place that listing a few things to do is totally unfair. However, we have provided you the best of the lot so that you won’t miss out some of the must-see spots in the country. From history to culture, mythology to architecture, food to flora and fauna, you will just love it all here. So plan your schedule wisely by going through the top things to do list above and have fun in the UK.
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