There’s something so gorgeous about England and yes, I am slightly biased. After growing up in Wales, studying in Scotland, I finally set down some roots in England. From the rolling hills and villages in the Cotswolds to England’s historic castles; the whole country is so diverse. That being said, let’s not forget some of the best cities to visit in England; that is amazing, too!
Now, As with all cities, each has its own pretty-darn cool identity.
Some are more historic, some are tiny, others are vibrant whilst one or two are total global cities that seem to have everything.
Regardless of what you’re looking for, hopefully, some of these best cities to visit in England will help you find your tribe and the type of holiday you want.
You’re going to love England (well, I hope so anyway).
1.) Bath
Okay, don’t tell the others but Bath is possibly one of the best cities to visit in England.
Now, although I try not to have favourites, Bath really does pack a hefty punch when it comes to things to see, explore and experience.
Whilst wandering around the city, make sure you visit the incredible Roman Baths, grab one (or 10) of the freshly-baked buns at Sally Lunn’s.
Also, be sure to visit the Abbey and the Circus (think, much fewer acrobats and much more half-crescent, and a totally pretty, street).
If you’re looking for a little relaxation after traipsing the city, pop into the Thermae Bath Spa. It’s Britain’s only natural thermal spa, you’ll love it.
Read more: Best things to do in Bath
2.) Norwich
Okay, I feel guilty saying this but my first ever trip to Norwich was this year. Trust me when I say it’s a mistake for me to have left it so long!
I mean, they have some of the best chefs in and around the city, like Charlie Hodson’s delicious grub at the Fur & Feather (which, is so yummy).
Oh, and don’t forget the amazing Grosvenor Fish Bar which is honestly one of the best spots for fish and chips in the whole of England.
After eating your weight in delicious food, pop for a stroll around the city to see some of the historic centre.
Make sure to explore the iconic Norwich Cathedral, wander around Elm Hill and visit the city’s amazing castle, too.
Read more: What you have to do in Norwich
3.) Cambridge
Cambridge is a totally beautiful city that’s perched on the edges of the River Cam. Plus, it’s made even more famous by its university (where Yaya studied).
Trust me, though, I don’t just like Cambridge because Yaya studied there; it really is one of the best cities to visit in England.
Once there, grab a boat for a punt on the river (in the winter, wrap up warm and in the summer slap on that sunblock), which is epic. Also, wander around some of the amazing places to see like Kings College Chapel. Oh, and if hunger beckons, gorge on a delicious brunch at Fitzbillies, too.
If you’re feeling fit, see the views from Great St. Mary’s Church Tower, that is stunning. It’s one of the best vistas over Kings College and the rest of the city.
Read more: Best things to do in Cambridge
4.) London
London isn’t just one of the best cities to visit in England but (in my totally biased opinion) one of the best cities to explore. I love it so much and that’s why I made it my home!
Of course, London has some epic shopping spots like; Covent Garden to enjoy; but there’s so much more to the city, too.
After visiting the main sights like; the British Museum, the London Eye, Big Ben, the Tower of London and stopping off for a quick visit to the Queen’s house (Buckingham Palace) make sure to explore some of the other points of the city that make London so special.
For a great night out, pop over to neighbourhoods like Shoreditch. Alternatively, check out some of these amazing bars with views over London.
If coffee is your thing, then make sure you visit some of the best independent coffee houses.
Also, if you wanna steer clear of the usual haunts of Trafalgar Square or Picadilly Circus, pop over to Peckham. It has a proper foodie scene has some tasty spots to eat.
Don’t forget, there’s also a whole heap of secret London spots that visitors often forget to see.
Read more: Best areas of London to visit
5.) Bristol
Bristol is one of those cities that might not spring to mind when you initially think of visiting some cities in England. Perched near Bath, it’s really easy to get here by train or car.
As the home to Banksy, make sure you check out some of the epic artwork that he has created across the city. Plus, who knows, maybe you’ll even pass him on the street.
Whilst taking a wander around the city, make sure to visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge, explore Bristol Cathedral and stroll around Harbourside.
Also, for a tasty sweet treat, pop into Margot May who makes the yummiest scones in all of England.
Read more: Best things to do in Bristol
6.) Brighton
Brighton is one of those English cities that rivals London as one of the best cities to visit in England.
Filled with its ancient narrow lanes, full of quirky shops and bars, Brighton is a great spot to visit on a day trip from London.
The Royal Pavilion and Pier is definitely one spot to visit whilst your there (with a ’99’ ice cream in hand, of course).
Plus, Brighton also has a totally vibrant nightlife with loads of live music bands which I know you enjoy.
For a lovely spot to stay at, book into the Hotel du Vin with its sweeping staircase and quirky rooms or stay in a Georgian terrace at Blanch House close to the seafront.
Read more: Best things to do in Brighton
7.) Durham
One of the best ways to arrive in Durham is by train; well, in my opinion, anyway.
As the train pulls in, you’ll get a glimpse of how gorgeous the city is – all nestled within the stunning natural landscape of northern England.
Once you’re there, make sure to pop into the Romanesque cathedral overlooking this small city. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your camera; It’s stunning.
The cathedral is surrounded by cobbled lanes that are pretty picturesque. Nearby, the city’s ancient university and Crook Hall is also great to see.
For a yummy treat, pop into Glady’s Vintage Tea Room which makes the tastiest breakfast and freshly brewed teas.
Read more: Best places to visit in the north of England
8.) Hull
Hull is often an underrated spot when it comes to the best cities to visit in England, but that’s all changing. Historically, the city has a long history with the sea – with local fishing communities making this city what it is.
Awarded the UK’s City of Culture last year, Hull is a pretty up-and-coming spot to visit.
Now, it has several quaint museums, like the; Wilberforce House Museum and Hull Maritime Museum to visit.
Also, they have a pretty epic spot you might (or might not) wanna see. Don’t forget to wander around the historic old town, visit Ferens Art Gallery and the stunning Holy Trinity Church.
Read more: Best places to visit in the East of England
9.) Liverpool
Liverpool is famous for lots of reasons!
The Beatles are one of the biggest, obviously, but did you know it’s one of the best cities to visit in England for the number of galleries and museums, too.
For decades, Liverpool had a very active and vibrant music scene alongside two successful footy clubs (if that’s your sport of choice) that you’re almost guaranteed to experience.
Whilst strolling through Liverpool, make sure to include; the Mersey ferry, the historic Albert Dock, the Liver Building and the stunning Tate Gallery.
For a great coffee, stop off at Panna who make one of the best, freshly roasted coffee.
Read more: Best things to do in Liverpool
10.) Manchester
Manchester was once at the heart of Britain’s Industrial Revolution (hence, the worker bees 🐝).
Manchester still retains an important place in the culture of the country with loads of musical heritage. Though, best of all, that warm northern hospitality.
when you’re in the city, make sure to explore the stunning John Rylands Library, see T-Rex at The Manchester Museum and explore the Manchester Art Gallery.
If you work up an appetite, pop over to Umezushi which makes some of the best sushi in the city.
Read more: Best things to do in Manchester
11.) Nottingham
Once the centre of the historic lace in England, Nottingham is now much more than it’s lacey heritage.
Today, Nottingham is a great location for a cultural break and one of the best cities to visit in England. This is especially true if you like to explore some of its amazing histories.
The Creative Corner has the Castle Museum, the Lace Market and the original shop of fashion icon Paul Smith to visit. Plus, outside the city is the legendary Sherwood Forest home of Robin Hood.
Finally, a top choice for a gorgeous hotel is the Lace Market Hotel with views of the historic neighbourhood.
12.) Portsmouth
Portsmouth has long been known as the home of the British Navy and one place that’s dominated by the sea.
Its harbour has been a military port since the early days of Henry VII; making this one historical and best cities to visit in England.
Once you’ve arrived in Portsmouth, visit the Historic Dockyard it has HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and Henry VIII’s 16th-century flagship Mary Rose. From the top of the Spinnaker Tower, you can also see great views over the Solent to the Isle of Wight.
Read more: Best things to do in Portsmouth
13.) York
It doesn’t matter how many times I visit York, it never gets old!
There’s always something new (or old) to explore, see and experience.
If it’s your first time here, make sure to walk around the ancient parts of the city centre.
Plus, follow the 14th-century walls that enclose the medieval city and stop off at all the little boutiques you’ll find.
Oh, also, don’t forget the impressive York Minster, the largest Gothic building in the whole of Britain.
Also, York is home to the National Railway Museum, though you might wanna give this a miss if trains aren’t your thing.
Alternatively, pop into the Jorvik Viking Centre where you can find out more about the city’s Nordic heritage.
For a typically (and pretty decedent) afternoon tea, pop into the Countess of York. You’ll leave stuffed. After all, it’s hard to resist all the cakes. 😉
If you’re looking for a day trip from York, make sure to check out the nearby (and totally gorgeous) market town of Malton or the smuggler’s town of Robin Hood’s Bay.
Read more: Best things to do in York
14.) Stratford-upon-Avon
Okay, so this is more of a town than a city – but I couldn’t resist!
Known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is a gorgeous place that’s nestled in the English countryside.
When you’re here, you can visit the birthplace of Shakespeare and learn much more about his life. You’ll also see; Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, the theatres of the Swan and Royal Shakespeare to name but a few.
Afterwards, take a relaxing stroll along the river or visit one of the many pubs in the historic centre. Honestly, these alone make it one of the best cities to visit in England to visit.
Read more: Best things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon
15.) Bournemouth
One of the things I love most about Bournemouth is its seven miles of sandy beaches and lovely Victorian parks.
Best of all, Bournemouth is actually one of England’s warmest places in England, too. This all makes it one of the best cities to visit in England if you’re looking for a less chilly spot.
Close by, you’ll also find the start of the Jurassic Coast with Old Harry Rocks, Durdle Door and some gorgeous little hamlets to explore.
Oh, and don’t forget, you should go and look at the world’s shortest funicular railway linking the beach to the cliff-top.
Read more: The most beautiful towns in the UK
Check Out The Very Best Of Great Britain!
