22 places to visit in England, recommended by bloggers

England may be small, but there’s plenty to see. And as we often don’t have the time or money to travel round the world (let’s be realistic), you’ll be pleased to know that a holiday in Blightly, for example, with its beautiful countryside, stunning beaches and delicious food, can be just as amazing.

We’ve asked some of the best-known travel bloggers to tell us about their favourite destinations in England, ranging from bustling cities to small villages off the beaten track. Many of these bloggers live in the UK, so they know what they’re talking about. Whether you’re visiting from abroad or already live in the UK and want to plan a holiday within the country, read on to discover these 22 places to visit in England.

1. Bristol

What a lovely city! ☀⛵ 📷@carolyn.eaton

Bristol’s fabulous balloon festival 📷@igersbristol

Bristol, recommended by Elle Croft from the blog A Bird in the Hand Travel 

For me, the ideal destination must meet at least these criteria: it must have appealing cuisine, plenty to see and do, and preferably a modern atmosphere. And the truth is, I consider myself lucky not to have to catch a plane to find a place that ticks all these boxes. Every time I visit Bristol, the city seems to steal a little piece of my heart. It doesn’t matter when you visit, because there’s always something to do, such as visiting the historic SS Great Britain, exploring its fascinating aquarium or enjoying the incredible street art you’ll find everywhere (including original works by Banksy).

If you’re travelling in the summer, you’re bound to come across a festival such as Harbour Fest (which lasts a whole weekend and offers endless, free fun) or the impressive International Balloon Fiesta, where you can see hundreds of balloons floating through the sky. When it’s time for lunch, head to St Nick’s covered market, where there are loads of food stalls, and round off the day with a pizza and a cider at The Stable. And if you’re looking for something a bit different, enjoy some tapas and a nice glass of wine overlooking the harbour at The Olive Shed.

Hostels in Bristol

2. The Lake District

A 755m climb up to Red Pike and then back down to Buttermere 📷@amielw_

Grisedale Lake from St Sunday Crag 📷@fellsidephotography

The Lake District, recommended by Simon from the blog Simon’s Jam Jar

The Lake District is my favourite National Park in the UK and one of the jewels of the north of England. If you’re into hiking, photography, outdoor adventures, cosy pubs serving home-cooked food or visiting the homes of famous poets, then the Lake District is the place for you. Getting there couldn’t be easier. Just 30 minutes from the M6 motorway lie Ambleside and Windermere, two of the towns in the Southern Lakes. Travelling to the Lake District by train is also really straightforward, as there are plenty of trains from London that take just over two and a half hours and cost around 25 euros.

Speaking of trains, from Ravensglass you can also catch a train that takes you into the heart of the National Park, deep into the Eskdale valley – a narrow-gauge steam train journey you won’t find anywhere else in the UK. And once you’ve finished canyoning, hiking the trails or cycling through the beautiful countryside, head to one of the many cosy pubs in the Lake District, where they serve pints upon pints of proper beer. Oh! And if you want to experience something typical of Cumbria, don’t leave without visiting the Royal Oak in Ambleside or The Dog in Keswick.

Hostels in the Lake District

3. Bath

A picturesque city steeped in history 📷@sunshinetogold

In Bath, there are lots of charming local shops like this one, called Cascara. Their tea and cakes are incredible! 📷@poppy_loves_london

Bath, recommended by Emily from the blog Emily Luxton Travels

One of my favourite cities in the UK is Bath. As well as being one of the prettiest cities in the south of England (thanks in large part to all those beautiful stone walls), you’ll never get bored with the sheer number of things to do. For me, the highlight is the Thermae Bath Spa, the city’s only spa that uses the thermal water for which Bath is famous. And of course, you can’t miss the Roman Baths, where you’ll learn all about the history of my favourite spa town.

I also love Bath’s connection to Jane Austen. As well as the Jane Austen Centre, which is great fun, fans of the writer shouldn’t miss a visit to Bath’s Assembly Rooms – magnificent Georgian halls that provided the setting for scenes in two of her novels (Persuasion and Northanger Abbey). Then there’s its beautiful Georgian architecture. Personally, I love The Circus, and of course, the famous Royal Crescent. Enjoy it all by taking a stroll through the city centre, and if you fancy doing something a bit different, don’t miss the comedy tours run by Bizarre Bath. They’re unique, absurd and unforgettable.

Hostels in Bath

4. South Dorset

A different side of the English coast📷@samiosmith

The views from Corfe Castle are unbeatable 📷@surreyhillscountryside

South Dorset, recommended by Emily from the blog Emily Luxton Travels

If you’re looking for a holiday destination in the UK with stunning scenery, incredible seafood and plenty of outdoor adventures, you simply must visit South Dorset. I grew up in Weymouth, a lovely little coastal town with plenty of vintage charm, so I’m not exactly objective! But even so, I truly believe this is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK!

One of the most interesting places is the famous Jurassic Coast, which starts in East Devon and stretches all the way to the Old Harry Rocks near Swanage in Dorset. These cliffs were formed around 252–201 million years ago during the Triassic Period, but as well as the fossils and the geology, you’ll also find some stunning scenery and amazing walks along the cliff edge. Don’t miss Durdle Door, a stone arch jutting out over the sea on one of Dorset’s most beautiful beaches (if you want to see it up close, kayak tours are the perfect way to go!).

I also love Corfe Castle, a ruined castle perched on top of a hill which inspired Enid Blyton to write about the imaginary castle on Kirrin Island. If you’re looking for something a bit different, head to the village of Tyneham. It’s one of my favourite spots in the county and not many people know about it. It’s a ghost village abandoned during the Second World War, where you can explore the ruined houses or visit the school, which dates back to 1940 and has been beautifully restored. Dorset is just a 40-minute drive from Bournemouth.

Hostels in Bournemouth

5. Brighton

Brighton Pier is lovely whatever the weather📷@svenjasparkling

Brighton, recommended by K&H from the KH Travels blog

Brighton is a fantastic place for everyone, whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway, a family in need of some fun on the beach, or a group of friends wanting to party all night long. Brighton isn’t the sort of place where you have to plan everything down to the last detail to have a good time, which is why we love getting lost in its streets without a set route. It’s precisely its markets, its graffiti and its street performers that, amongst many other things, make this city such a charming place. Oh! And when you visit, do keep an eye on the events calendar (for example, Brighton Pride is one of the biggest of the year!)

We love enjoying a classic fish and chips by the sea or having a stroll through The Lanes, where you’ll find a host of little restaurants. Two of our favourite places to eat are the famous Choccywoccydoodah, which will drive any chocolate lover wild, and Dos Sombreros, an independent Mexican restaurant with a wide selection of delicious dishes and cocktails.

The Lanes is an area full of cobbled alleyways, famous for its lavishly decorated shops and restaurants. It’s usually packed at the weekends, but it’s still well worth exploring to soak up Brighton’s unique culture. On Brighton Pier, you’ll also find an area dedicated to fairground rides, with attractions and other more modern entertainment in a setting that still retains the essence of days gone by. We like to order a cider and relax whilst taking in the beautiful, colourful views of the Brighton coastline, dotted with beach huts and the lovely Regency-style architecture.

Hostels in Brighton

6. The Cotswolds

One of the Cotswolds’ walking trails – so typically English 📷@000nel000

I never tire of the charming streets of Castle Combe📷@diman_zi_est

The Cotswolds, recommended by Victoria Brewood from the blog Pommie Travels

If you’re looking for a quintessentially English spot, you have to visit the Cotswolds. Its stone houses, streams, winding roads and pretty villages make the Cotswolds the perfect destination for a getaway within Britain. It’s not far away – just a two-hour drive from London – and you can even stop off in Bath on the way to make the most of your trip! Simply driving through the Cotswolds and taking in the scenery is an experience in itself, although if you go in peak season you’re likely to come across quite a few tourists in the larger towns. For a bite to eat, I highly recommend heading to The Old Fleece, a nearby pub serving a classic gastro-pub menu and where they do a brilliant roast every Sunday.

There are so many pretty villages and places to visit in the Cotswolds that you could spend days exploring the area, but in my view the highlights are Castle Combe, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. Personally, what I enjoy most is going to the Cotswold Wildlife Park to see the animals up close in a unique setting. You can walk through an enclosure full of lemurs leaping from tree to tree and take photos of the rhinos grazing freely in front of the park’s manor house. Another place you’ll love to visit is Sezincote Estate, a 4,500-hectare estate featuring a 200-year-old Mughal-style palace. For me, the Cotswolds is without a doubt the most relaxing place to spend a holiday, and it’s no wonder it has inspired so many writers and poets over the years. What’s more, getting here is a piece of cake, as it’s just an hour’s train ride from Bristol.

Hostels in Bristol

7. London

The coolest street art can be found in Shoreditch📷@yousef_4s

A colourful snack at the Cereal Killer Café 📷@sophialeestein

London, recommended by Samantha from the Coco Travels blog

I know London’s a tourist hotspot, but sometimes I love being a tourist in my own city! I think one of the best ways to see London is by hopping on one of the so-called hop-on-hop-off river cruises – boats that travel along the river, usually costing around 10 pounds, and on which (as the name suggests) you can hop on and off as many times as you like. The boats set off from Westminster Pier and head down to Greenwich, where adrenaline junkies can head to the O2 Arena and hop on the Emirates Cable Car to enjoy breathtaking views of the city from above. The last time I went up, it was quite windy and it was a thrilling ride, as you can imagine…

Once you’ve finished the tourist ‘ritual’, head east towards Shoreditch, a very trendy London neighbourhood where you can snap a couple of great photos for your Instagram. This is my favourite part of London. On every corner you’ll find loads of amazing street art (there are walking tours if you fancy it) and a few surprising spots where you can enjoy a lovely brunch… and plenty of avocado toast! One of the places I go to most often is Cream, where they make incredible juices. If you like cereal, pop into the Cereal Killer Café for some old-fashioned cereal (they’ve got it on offer all year round). And if you’re looking for a lively place to eat, then head to Bounce, where you can play table tennis between drinks.

Hostels in London

8. Liverpool

Albert Dock on a sunny day 📷@j1llj0nes

Free music festivals like this one in Sefton Park are a regular feature in Liverpool 📷@visitliverpool_

Liverpool, recommended by Olivia McDonald from the blog Liv On A Shoestring

Let’s see if I can guess… I bet the first thing that springs to mind when you think of Liverpool is The Beatles, isn’t it? Indeed, the famous quartet with their Scouse accents were from here. But this maritime city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has so much more to offer and is the perfect addition to any trip around the UK. If you’re into architecture, this northern port city boasts the highest number of listed buildings and sites of architectural or historical interest in the country – and it’s also home to Britain’s largest cathedral! Every day at 11.00 am, in front of the statue of Prince Albert, there’s a free, three-hour guided walking tour explaining the origins of the typical Scouse accent; a fascinating experience and a brilliant way to spend the morning.

Personally, I love Liverpool for its wild nights out, especially if you’re into dance music (think something like *The Hangover*). At the Heebie Jeebie, for example, you can hear some cracking tunes. The Hatters Hostel is also brilliant, as is Tavernco and its massive hangover breakfast – definitely the best! They serve up an impressive stack of fluffy American pancakes for just £3.95.

Hostels in Liverpool 

9. Newcastle upon Tyne

The magnificent Tyne Bridge 📷@lolaroberto

At the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, you can see some amazing exhibitions📷@deborah.mace

Newcastle, recommended by Gemma from the blog Girls That Travel 

Newcastle is probably the city with the friendliest and liveliest people in the UK! To start the day, head down to the quay for breakfast at the little Quay Ingredient and order their famous eggs Benedict (just make sure you arrive early to avoid the weekend queues). You can then continue with a stroll along the riverbank and cross the Millennium Bridge to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, which is free, of course. The museum, housed in a former flour mill, has hosted artists such as Anthony Gormley and Damien Hirst, and boasts extraordinary views from the fourth-floor terrace.

Don’t leave without visiting the Victoria Tunnel, a 19th-century tunnel originally used to transport coal and later as a shelter during the Second World War. It’s a damp and cold place, so make sure you wrap up warm and book your visit in advance! (Admission is around £7). If you fancy a night out, pop into Madame Koo, a hidden gem with cosy private rooms and an Asian-style atmosphere. But remember: if you want to blend in with the locals, you’ll have to leave your coat at home. Even when it’s two degrees below zero in February, Geordies ( as the locals are known) are famous for NEVER going out wrapped up warm.

For a really cosy stay, head to the Albatross, which is right in the city centre and where the staff will make you feel right at home. They even give you free tea, coffee and toast!

Hostels in Newcastle upon Tyne

10. Cornwall

Relaxing on Porthgwidden Beach in St Ives, Cornwall 📷@perminder_klair

Cornwall, recommended by Simon from the blog Simon’s Jam Jar

It still surprises me that so many people living in the UK have never been to Cornwall. When it comes to short breaks and coastal holidays, there are few places in the UK that boast scenery and beaches as stunning as those in Cornwall. The South West Coastal Path is a gem for walking enthusiasts, and many of the bays along the north coast are among the best surfing spots in the UK.

Each and every one of the little villages, no matter how big or small, has its own hidden pubs, promenades and beaches. What’s more, Cornwall is also steeped in history. You simply mustn’t miss Tintagel and the coastal ruins of King Arthur’s birthplace. Visit St Michael’s Mount, which is cut off as the tide rises and falls on the South Coast, and especially Perranporth, a place with over three kilometres of long, spectacular golden sandy beaches – I’ve been going there every year since I was eight. Oh! And don’t miss the Watering Hole, the only pub in the UK that’s right in the middle of the beach!

Hostels in Cornwall

11. Cambridge

 Sipping gin and tonics whilst people glide along the canals in traditional ‘punts’ 📷@emmyivanova

Cambridge is a magical and charming place📷@eve.piri

Cambridge, recommended by Kash from The Budget Traveller blog  

For me, Cambridge is the perfect place to escape reality (so much so that sometimes I feel as though I’m in the midst of the Tudor era…). One of Cambridge’s main attractions is its university, famous throughout the world. Its thirty colleges are precisely what give Cambridge its unique atmosphere. You can climb some of its ivory towers for free, although you’ll need to pay around £5 to enter the most famous colleges. I recommend visiting Newnham College, which has a wonderful garden surrounded by brick walls, or Christ’s College, which is also free. One of the best things to do in Cambridge – and one I personally love – is to attend Evensong (and it’s completely free!). The most famous is at King’s College, but you can also find choirs with truly beautiful, clear voices at Trinity College, Selwyn, St John’s and many others.

From autumn through to early spring, I recommend taking a stroll along The Backs (on Queens Road) to enjoy one of the best views of Cambridge: the meadows opposite King’s College Chapel in all their splendour. The Backs is a beautiful place in its own right. One of the most romantic travel experiences I’ve ever had in England – and in Europe in general – was taking in this scenery from one of the traditional punt boats gliding along the River Cam (it’s every bit as good as Venice!). If you’re going to take a boat trip along the canals, it’s best to go in the morning, when it’s less crowded. I personally recommend Scudamores, a local operator offering an excellent 45-minute guided tour of The Backs. Tickets can be booked online and are cheaper than buying them at the ticket office (around 16 pounds).

As for hostels, the YHA Cambridge serves top-quality food in its own bar, the Scholars. I also recommend visiting Fitzbillies, a very famous Cambridge patisserie and café where you can admire its beautiful Art Nouveau stained-glass windows and, of course, enjoy everything on the menu. Try their crab pâté with gherkins, their sausage rolls or their famous ‘Chelsea Buns’ drizzled with syrup for just £2.

Hostels in Cambridge

12. Whitstable, Kent

The pretty beach huts in Whitstable📷@wots4totsuk

Oyster harvesting, a typical activity in Whitstable 📷@anneliesvalk

Whitstable recommended by Lucy Sheref, from the blog Wanderluce

I never cease to be fascinated by all the things that are close by, some of them practically on my doorstep. I must admit I love city breaks (and I can assure you we have loads of options in the UK), but my heart always draws me to the sea! So whenever I fancy a holiday without travelling too far, I head to Whitstable, on the Kent coast and just a 30-minute drive from Canterbury.

Whitstable is a really cute little seaside village with all the charm of a traditional English village. It’s just an hour away by high-speed train from London (you can catch it from St Pancras station, where there’s a high-speed service) and you can spend a week, a weekend or even just a day there. When you arrive in this fishing village, I’d recommend heading to the harbour, order a few oysters and lobsters at The Lobster Shack by the sea (Whitstable oysters are famous – in fact, I served them at my wedding!) and take a stroll along the beach to The Old Neptune, a pub where you can quench your thirst. Oh! And don’t forget to snap a few photos of the lovely beach huts.

Harbour Street is full of lovely shops where you can buy a souvenir of your trip and grab a bite to eat to recharge your batteries. At the Crab & Winkle – a place you simply mustn’t miss – you can order some seafood and eat it right there on the spot, standing up. And if you’re staying for a night or two and want to try a truly delicious meal, then you must book a table at the Michelin-starred Sportsman restaurant in the nearby town of Seasalter.

Hostels in Kent

13. New Forest

The New Forest is a lovely place 📷@foxybeardpics 

New Forest, recommended by Jodie from The Little Backpackerblog 

As someone who’s been lucky enough to grow up and spend my life in this part of the UK, I can say that this is an incredible place. It’s just a two-hour drive from London, making it a perfect destination for anyone travelling around the UK. From the moment you enter the New Forest National Park, you’ll be surrounded by woodland, common land and a wealth of walking and cycling routes, and if you look closely, you’ll spot some wild animals roaming freely (I’m talking about horses, cows and, occasionally, a wild boar). The New Forest area is made up of several villages and towns well worth a visit, including Burley, Lyndhurst, Lymington and Beaulieu.

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to see and do in this area, so I strongly recommend hiring a bike and getting out on the road to make the most of your trip – even if it’s just to go from pub to pub! In fact, I’d recommend popping into the pubs you’ll find in practically every town and village for a bite to eat and a drink. Another tip if you’re visiting in summer is to bring a tent so you can camp for the weekend in one of these spots, and visit the New Forest Water Park. And if, on the other hand, you’re visiting during the colder months, wrap up warm and get your walking boots on to go for a walk, then pop into a pub to warm up by the fire.

Hostels in Southampton

14. Devon

Incredible views of West Lulworth 📷@irkkuliri

Salcombe is one of Devon’s hidden gems 📷@greggy1

Devon Recommendedby Katie from What Katie Is Doing

Sometimes I feel the urge to leave the UK and travel to somewhere exotic, but if my budget won’t stretch to crossing the pond and satisfying my tropical cravings, then I just pack up and head off to the Lydford Gorges in Devon. Standing at the foot of White Lady Falls is like being in Bali or Mexico. Be sure to take a stroll along the path that runs right alongside the gorge’s wall and venture into the famous ‘Devil’s Cauldron’ (the “Devil’s Cauldron”), where you can see how the force of the water has carved its way through the gleaming black rock and, for a moment, you’ll forget you’re in England. When you emerge from the gorge and return to reality, pop over to Brentor, a place just as impressive but quite a bit further away. Climb to the top of its famous rocky outcrop to see the chapel (where, surprisingly, services are still held every Sunday!) and enjoy the panoramic views of the moorland on your way to the south coast.

After exploring Devon’s winding roads, you can continue south towards Sidmouth, a typical seaside resort dominated by Regency-style buildings, which really comes to life in summer during Sidmouth Folk Week. Another option is to head north to Ilfracombe, which on a sunny summer’s day is every bit as good as the Mediterranean coast and where you’ll often find plenty of surfers catching the waves. It’s a top spot for camping, a road trip or simply spending the night by the sea or wild camping in some hidden spot on the moors. Just make sure you’re prepared in case it rains, because this place is anything but dry. And even so, you’ll love it all the same!

Hostels in Devon

15. Margate, Kent

Thanet, recommended by Jailan from the blog Savoir There

My favourite place in the UK is Thanet, on the east coast of Kent, home to Margate – a town with a very distinctive and hugely thriving creative scene. Its skies inspired the English painter William Turner, and it has also produced major figures in contemporary art such as Tracey Emin.

Thanet was also traditionally where most English people spent their seaside holidays. Today, the buckets, spades and sweets of yesteryear have given way to boutique hotels and sophisticated art galleries, yet it hasn’t lost that aura of tranquillity and authenticity that gives it such charm. One thing I really enjoy is pottering around the flea markets brimming with retro treasures and descending (helmet included) into the secret tunnels dating back to the war years.

Nearby are also Ramsgate (the country’s only Royal Port) and Broadstairs, a quintessentially English coastal town where you can do all sorts of things, such as eating freshly caught fish and seafood, exploring one of its 15 beaches and bays, climbing limestone cliffs or cycling along the Viking Trail. And don’t leave without trying what’s known as the best pizza in the country at GB Pizza (though you’ll need to work it off afterwards with a stroll whilst watching the sunset over the sand).

Hostels in Kent

16. Alnwick, Northumberland

A scene straight out of Harry Potter 📷@ermesia

A really cool bookshop where you can while away the hours 📷@emmyivanova

Recommended by Jennifer Gale

Alnwick, in Northumberland, is one of those places where you really feel like you’ve got away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its incredible countryside and tranquil, picturesque villages are complemented by its super-fresh fish and seafood and long stretches of beach, making it the perfect place to go on holiday without leaving the country. Whether you fancy a stroll or a proper hike, you’ll find some lovely walks, such as the one that circles the beautiful Dunstanburgh Castle, just a few kilometres from Alnwick. Another option is to park by the beach and wander around for a couple of hours. Oh, and one thing that’s well worth doing is hopping on one of the boats that take you to the Farne Islands for £7. You’re guaranteed an hour’s entertainment as you watch hundreds of puffins, seals and other seabirds perched on the rocks.

Alnwick Castle is another must-see attraction, and it’s also where some scenes from the Harry Potter films were shot (you’re sure to recognise it as you get closer!). As for me, being a bit of a bookworm, I love Barter Books, Alnwick’s huge bookshop and one of the largest second-hand bookshops in Europe. After an afternoon of reading and a bit of a stroll, head to the Craster Seafood Restaurant for some delicious fresh fish with sea views. Alnwick is just a 45-minute drive or train journey from Newcastle, so it’s easy to get to from any hostel in Newcastle. Personally, I like the Albatross, which is in the centre and close to the train station, making it easy to catch the train to Alnwick.

Hostels in Newcastle

17. Manchester

The bee, Manchester’s symbol, can be seen as street art in the Northern Quarter 📷@bryydz_

Altrincham Market in Manchester is a foodie’s paradise with stalls serving all sorts of things☕📷@asideofsweet

Recommended by Jaz Lewis

Manchester is a city with many personalities. You can find literally everything there, which is why it’s ideal for a weekend break (not to mention that the people are really friendly!). Wandering through the streets of the Northern Quarter is well worth it, and it’s also home to some of the city’s best street art. Manchester is also a very gay-friendly place where you’ll find plenty of gay clubs and bars, particularly in the Canal Street area. If you’re looking for a chic atmosphere, hop on a tram (it’s really easy and convenient) and head to Spinningfields, an area with loads of great bars, restaurants and shops. When it comes to a night out, remember that Manchester has two universities, so you’ll have no trouble finding places to go out on a budget. In fact, Manchester’s nightlife is some of the best in the UK (I’m being objective here, mind you! ha ha) with events like The Warehouse Project – four months of raves every weekend in a former air-raid shelter (trust me, you’ll have an unforgettable night).

If you fancy a delicious brunch with plenty of vegetarian options, head to the centrally located Federal Café or the Allotment, where you can fill your stomach and tackle that inevitable hangover. Although if you’re looking for something a bit cheaper, you could also head to Altrincham Market; I absolutely love their avocado toast! (It’s simple but delicious). For geeks and science lovers, I’d encourage you to pop along to the Jodrell Bank Observatory, home to the world’s third-largest telescope. And for football fans, or simply to experience a quintessentially Manchester experience, head to Old Trafford and visit Manchester United’s stadium for around 20 pounds (and don’t forget that in Manchester, people LOVE football, and the rivalry between City and United fans is everywhere!).

Hostels in Manchester

18. Sheffield

You’ll find the best brunch in Sheffield at Tamper Coffee 📷@emma.v.martell 

Sheffield’s street art is really cool and is sure to catch your eye 📷@emma.v.martell

Recommended by Minka Guides

In my opinion, Sheffield is a very underrated destination. It’s a hugely creative city with a thousand things to see and do. Going shopping, for example, is a brilliant idea, but if you’d rather get away from the busiest streets for a bit, pop into the impressive Winter Garden, a huge conservatory right next to the Millennium Gallery, which usually hosts excellent exhibitions all year round. Another thing I really love is the ruins of Peveril’s Castle. I can assure you that the half-hour drive from Sheffield city centre is well worth it. And if you fancy a slightly more challenging day out, the Peak District is just a 20-minute bus ride away, where you can explore miles and miles of beautiful hills.

After all that walking, it’s time for a drink or two, and with Sheffield’s huge student population, you’ll be spoilt for choice. I really like The Great Gatsby because you can go for a bite to eat during the day and end up partying until 3 in the morning (and on top of that, they serve loads of delicious cocktails). The next day, pop into Tamper Coffee for a proper New Zealand-style brunch and don’t miss their eggs Benedict (amazing!). One of the best things to do in Sheffield is to wander through its streets and find a pub where you feel at home (the city’s teeming with them!). The Riverside is brilliant on a sunny day, and another that’s really cosy and authentic is The Old Queens Head. And although it’s completely unrelated, if you also like alpacas, llamas and reindeer, head to Mayfield Alpaca Farm on the outskirts of Sheffield – you’ll have a brilliant afternoon!

Hostels in Sheffield

19. York

 York Minster is a stunning Gothic cathedral📷@zihov

This is probably one of the most picturesque streets in England📷@claire_malteser

Recommended by Annabel Usher

York is one of the prettiest cities in the north of England and I personally love it. It has loads of cosy cafés and plenty to see. Although it’s a tourist spot, one place you simply must visit is York Minster, an imposing Gothic cathedral that’s also one of York’s most iconic landmarks. Entry costs £10, but this includes a guided tour (you’re sure to love its history!) and you’ll also get to see the world’s largest stained-glass window in one of its windows. Don’t miss The Shambles either – one of my favourite neighbourhoods in York, full of lovely cobbled streets, charming cafés and restaurants, and the inspiration behind the famous Diagon Alley in Harry Potter! Pop into The Teddy Bear Tea Rooms for an incredible cup of coffee with some fabulous scones.

Despite its name, the Jorvik Viking Centre is also a really interesting place and one of the best things to do in York. Its exhibitions on Viking history are truly fascinating, featuring many well-preserved artefacts and an atmosphere that will transport you to an ancient Viking town. And finally, you can’t leave without trying the delicious traditional brunch served at Café 68 Gillygate, where they also serve an excellent vegetarian breakfast.

Hostels in York

22. Nottingham

This is a fairly common sight at Wollaton Hall 📷@leonnisbet

 Alley Cafe serves up some of the best vegetarian food in Nottingham 📷@sphbryn__

Recommended by Giulia Salerno from the blog Trips in Sips

Nottingham is such an underrated destination for a city break! The city has it ALL, quite literally. If you want to see some beautiful architecture, head over to the lovely Wollaton Hall, surrounded by parks that are perfect for a stroll and which also houses a museum about industry and history (in case you fancy getting a bit of a history buff!). Another must-see is the Nottingham Caves, a veritable labyrinth that will transport you back to the city’s darker years, where guided tours on the history of the caves are available. Admission is 8 pounds and it’s a fascinating place.

If you’ve had enough of sightseeing, you should know that Nottingham’s nightlife is also brilliant. As there are loads of students around, you can go out any night without spending much money. Good examples include clubs like Stealth, Rock City and Rescue Rooms, where you’ll be in good hands if you’re looking to party all night long. Don’t miss the quirky Alley Café either – an exclusively vegetarian and vegan café that often hosts live music performances. Their vegetarian breakfast and smoothies are a heavenly cure for a hangover!

Hostels in Nottingham

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