*This Post is a collaboration talking about all of the great cities and areas in the UK. I’ve focussed heavily on the North because that’s my jam.
If you know me, you’ll know that I love a road trip. I’ve been struggling with the whole lockdown element because I’d love to get in my car and head to some of my favourite cities in the UK to escape. Whilst there are so many beautiful cities/areas to visit across our country, I’ve picked a couple of my favourites that you can easily get to when travel permits again, I’ve even thrown in some tips for visiting and where you can park if I know the scoop. If you’re wanting to explore the UK via car, then you’ll be wanting both recommendations on where to visit and what rental car damage insurance to take out. Well, thankfully, cars are used widely across the UK, and public transport is also pretty great in the cities I’ve listed below. So I’ve picked out some cities that will have you itching to explore and revving to go.
York
I’ve grown up 40 minutes away from this beautiful, historic city. There is absolutely no doubt that it should be included in my list of English cities to visit and here’s why. Firstly, if you’re visiting the UK, you’re probably wanting to get an essence of some of our history. Well, York is the perfect place for that! You’ll find it hosts Viking, Roman and Medieval secrets and whilst exploring you can spot key sights across the city.
Tick List for York:
- Explore the charming shops at The Shambles
- Hike up Clifford’s Tower
- Have Afternoon Tea at Betty’s Tea Room (6-8 St. Helen’s Square)
- Marvel in the architecture of York Minster
- Get spooked at The York Dungeon
- Take in the beautiful landscape at The Yorkshire Museum & Gardens
Tip: I would recommend using the Park & Ride system for York to save yourself money and time. The centre of York is a lot of one way streets so instead, park at Askham Bar Park & Ride and take the 15 min bus to the centre (prices £3.20 return at time of writing).
Manchester
Ah, one of the best cities in the North. Manchester truly holds a piece of my heart and it’s no surprise why. It’s home to some of the best Art Galleries, eateries and bohemian areas that this part of the UK has to offer. Best of all, it’s super easy to drive to. There is relatively affordable parking throughout the city centre. Thankfully roads are very well marked and systems run pretty smoothly. So once you’ve chosen where to park you’ll be able to explore the city on foot.
Tick List for Manchester:
- Explore the Northern Quarter by foot
- Peak your senses in Chinatown
- Enjoy Pre-Raphaelite Art at Manchester Art Gallery
- Eat at Wasabi (63 Faulkner St)
- Get Sporty at Etihad Stadium (oh yeah this one’s for you football fans)
Grasmere, Cumbria
I thought I better add a quaint, smaller spot that I love to visit into this. If you are able to explore the country via car, then you may want to add the Lake District to your list. In particular, the charming village of Grasmere. With beautiful scenic walks and some of the best Gingerbread you’ll ever taste, it’s the perfect spot to have a little R&R on your trip to the UK.
Tick List for Grasmere:
- Sample Gingerbread at Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread Shop
- Stroll through the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden
Hull
It wouldn’t be my list if I didn’t include my hometown. Hull was recently put on the map when it won City of Culture in 2017. Whilst at the very end of a motorway, it is home to many secrets and will be one of the cities where money really does seem to go a long way. Parking is readily available across the city and fairly cheap. You can park at the major shopping centres for a few pound a day and explore the city centre on foot. If you need more reasons to visit Hull then check out my post here.
Tick List for Hull:
- Visit The Free Museums (oh yeah our museums are free, aside from the Deep!)
- Sample some local treasures on Humber Street
- Shop on Newland Avenue (parking is free)
- Eat at Zoo Cafe (the best vegetarian cafe in Hull- IMO)
- Go to East Park for a good walk about (Parking free)
Liverpool
If you’re talking about iconic people from the UK, no doubt the Beatles will come up. If you’re a fan, then you must take a trip to Liverpool. With funky bars, tonnes of night life and fantastic museums on offer you’ll be charmed by this wonderful city. The scouse accent is pretty great too.
Tick List for Liverpool:
- Pose next to the Beatles Statue (you’ll find it at Pier Head)
- Wander around the Royal Albert Dock
- Dance at the Cavern Club
- Go Shopping at Liverpool ONE
Which of these cities really peaks your interest? I’d love to hear!
Violet x
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