![\"Bristol\"](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/BRISTOL-YES-carolyn.eaton_.jpg\")
<\/p>\nEngland may be small, but there\u2019s plenty to see. And as we often don\u2019t have the time or money to travel round the world (let\u2019s be realistic), you\u2019ll 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.<\/p>\n
We\u2019ve 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\u2019re talking about. Whether you\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n
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What a lovely city! \u2600\u26f5 \ud83d\udcf7@carolyn.eaton<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Bristol\u2019s fabulous balloon festival \ud83d\udcf7@igersbristol<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Bristol, recommended by Elle Croft from the blog A Bird in the Hand Travel<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n 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\u2019t matter when you visit, because there\u2019s always something to do, such as visiting the historic SS Great Britain, exploring its fascinating aquarium or enjoying the incredible street art<\/em> you\u2019ll find everywhere (including original works by Banksy).<\/p>\n If you\u2019re travelling in the summer, you\u2019re 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\u2019s time for lunch, head to St Nick\u2019s 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\u2019re looking for something a bit different, enjoy some tapas and a nice glass of wine overlooking the harbour at The Olive Shed.<\/p>\n Hostels in Bristol<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n A 755m climb up to Red Pike and then back down to Buttermere \ud83d\udcf7@amielw_<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Grisedale Lake from St Sunday Crag \ud83d\udcf7@fellsidephotography<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n The Lake District, recommended by Simon from the blog Simon\u2019s Jam Jar<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n The Lake District is my favourite National Park in the UK and one of the jewels of the north of England. If you\u2019re 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\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n 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 \u2013 a narrow-gauge steam train journey you won\u2019t find anywhere else in the UK. And once you\u2019ve 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\u2019t leave without visiting the Royal Oak in Ambleside or The Dog in Keswick.<\/p>\n Hostels in the Lake District<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n A picturesque city steeped in history<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7@sunshinetogold<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n In Bath, there are lots of charming local shops like this one, called Cascara. Their tea and cakes are incredible!<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7@poppy_loves_london<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Bath, recommended by Emily from the blog Emily Luxton Travels<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n 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\u2019ll never get bored with the sheer number of things to do. For me, the highlight is the Thermae Bath Spa, the city\u2019s only spa that uses the thermal water for which Bath is famous. And of course, you can\u2019t miss the Roman Baths, where you\u2019ll learn all about the history of my favourite spa town.<\/p>\n I also love Bath\u2019s connection to Jane Austen. As well as the Jane Austen Centre, which is great fun, fans of the writer shouldn\u2019t miss a visit to Bath\u2019s Assembly Rooms<\/em> \u2013 magnificent Georgian halls that provided the setting for scenes in two of her novels (Persuasion and Northanger Abbey). Then there\u2019s 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\u2019t miss the comedy tours run by Bizarre Bath. They\u2019re unique, absurd and unforgettable.<\/p>\n Hostels in Bath<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n A different side of the English coast\ud83d\udcf7@samiosmith<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n The views from Corfe Castle are unbeatable<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7@surreyhillscountryside<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n South Dorset, recommended by Emily from the blog Emily Luxton Travels<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n If you\u2019re 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<\/em> charm, so I\u2019m not exactly objective! But even so, I truly believe this is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK!<\/p>\n 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\u2013201 million years ago during the Triassic Period, but as well as the fossils and the geology, you\u2019ll also find some stunning scenery and amazing walks along the cliff edge. Don\u2019t miss Durdle Door, a stone arch jutting out over the sea on one of Dorset\u2019s most beautiful beaches (if you want to see it up close, kayak tours are the perfect way to go!).<\/p>\n 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\u2019re looking for something a bit different, head to the village of Tyneham. It\u2019s one of my favourite spots in the county and not many people know about it. It\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n Hostels in Bournemouth<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n Brighton Pier is lovely whatever the weather\ud83d\udcf7@svenjasparkling<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Brighton, recommended by K&H from the KH Travels<\/a> blog<\/em><\/p>\n Brighton is a fantastic place for everyone, whether you\u2019re 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\u2019t 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\u2019s 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!)<\/p>\n We love enjoying a classic fish and chips<\/em> by the sea or having a stroll through The Lanes, where you\u2019ll 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.<\/p>\n The Lanes is an area full of cobbled alleyways, famous for its lavishly decorated shops and restaurants. It\u2019s usually packed at the weekends, but it\u2019s still well worth exploring to soak up Brighton\u2019s unique culture. On Brighton Pier, you\u2019ll 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<\/em> architecture.<\/p>\n Hostels in Brighton<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n One of the Cotswolds\u2019 walking trails \u2013 so typically English \ud83d\udcf7@000nel000<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n I never tire of the charming streets of Castle Combe\ud83d\udcf7@diman_zi_est<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n The Cotswolds, recommended by Victoria Brewood from the blog Pommie Travels <\/p>\n <\/a><\/em>If you\u2019re 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\u2019s not far away \u2013 just a two-hour drive from London \u2013 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\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n 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\u2019s manor house. Another place you\u2019ll 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\u2019s no wonder it has inspired so many writers and poets over the years. What\u2019s more, getting here is a piece of cake, as it\u2019s just an hour\u2019s train ride from Bristol.<\/p>\n Hostels in Bristol<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n The coolest street art can be found in Shoreditch\ud83d\udcf7@yousef_4s<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n A colourful snack at the Cereal Killer Caf\u00e9 \ud83d\udcf7@sophialeestein<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n London, recommended by Samantha from the Coco Travels<\/a> blog<\/em><\/p>\n I know London\u2019s 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<\/em> \u2013 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\u2026<\/p>\n Once you\u2019ve finished the tourist \u2018ritual\u2019, head east towards Shoreditch, a very trendy London <\/em>neighbourhood where you can snap a couple of great photos for your Instagram. This is my favourite part of London. On every corner you\u2019ll find loads of amazing street art<\/em> (there are walking tours if you fancy it) and a few surprising spots where you can enjoy a lovely brunch\u2026 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 Caf\u00e9 for some old-fashioned cereal (they\u2019ve got it on offer all year round). And if you\u2019re looking for a lively place to eat, then head to Bounce, where you can play table tennis between drinks.<\/p>\n Hostels in London<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n Albert Dock on a sunny day<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7@j1llj0nes<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Free music festivals like this one in Sefton Park are a regular feature in Liverpool<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7@visitliverpool_<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Liverpool, recommended by Olivia McDonald from the blog Liv On A Shoestring<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Let\u2019s see if I can guess\u2026 I bet the first thing that springs to mind when you think of Liverpool is The Beatles, isn\u2019t it? Indeed, the famous quartet with their Scouse<\/em> 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\u2019re into architecture, this northern port city boasts the highest number of listed buildings and sites of architectural or historical interest in the country \u2013 and it\u2019s also home to Britain\u2019s largest cathedral! Every day at 11.00 am, in front of the statue of Prince Albert, there\u2019s a free, three-hour guided walking tour explaining the origins of the typical Scouse<\/em> accent; a fascinating experience and a brilliant way to spend the morning.<\/p>\n Personally, I love Liverpool for its wild nights out, especially if you\u2019re into dance music (think something like *The Hangover*). At the Heebie Jeebie, for example, you can hear some cracking tunes. The Hatters Hostel<\/a> is also brilliant, as is Tavernco<\/a> and its massive hangover breakfast \u2013 definitely the best! They serve up an impressive stack of fluffy American pancakes<\/em> for just \u00a33.95.<\/p>\n Hostels in Liverpool<\/a>\u00a0 The magnificent Tyne Bridge<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7@lolaroberto<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n At the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, you can see some amazing exhibitions\ud83d\udcf7@deborah.mace<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Newcastle, recommended by Gemma from the blog Girls That Travel<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t 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\u2019s a damp and cold place, so make sure you wrap up warm and book your visit in advance! (Admission is around \u00a37). 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\u2019ll have to leave your coat at home. Even when it\u2019s two degrees below zero in February, Geordies ( <\/em>as the locals are known) are famous for NEVER going out wrapped up warm.<\/p>\n 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!<\/p>\n Hostels in Newcastle upon Tyne<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n Relaxing on Porthgwidden Beach in St Ives, Cornwall \ud83d\udcf7@perminder_klair<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Cornwall, recommended by Simon from the blog Simon\u2019s Jam Jar<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Each and every one of the little villages, no matter how big or small, has its own hidden pubs, promenades and beaches. What\u2019s more, Cornwall is also steeped in history. You simply mustn\u2019t miss Tintagel and the coastal ruins of King Arthur\u2019s birthplace. Visit St Michael\u2019s 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 \u2013 I\u2019ve been going there every year since I was eight. Oh! And don\u2019t miss the Watering Hole, the only pub in the UK that\u2019s right in the middle of the beach!<\/p>\n Hostels in Cornwall<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n \u00a0Sipping gin and tonics whilst people glide along the canals in traditional \u2018punts\u2019 \ud83d\udcf7@emmyivanova<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Cambridge is a magical and charming place\ud83d\udcf7@eve.piri<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Cambridge, recommended by Kash from The Budget Traveller<\/a> blog \u00a0<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n For me, Cambridge is the perfect place to escape reality (so much so that sometimes I feel as though I\u2019m in the midst of the Tudor era\u2026). One of Cambridge\u2019s main attractions is its university, famous throughout the world. Its thirty colleges<\/em> are precisely what give Cambridge its unique atmosphere. You can climb some of its ivory towers for free, although you\u2019ll need to pay around \u00a35 to enter the most famous colleges. I recommend visiting Newnham College, which has a wonderful garden surrounded by brick walls, or Christ\u2019s College, which is also free. One of the best things to do in Cambridge \u2013 and one I personally love \u2013 is to attend Evensong<\/em> (and it\u2019s completely free!). The most famous is at King\u2019s College, but you can also find choirs with truly beautiful, clear voices at Trinity College, Selwyn, St John\u2019s and many others.<\/p>\n 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\u2019s College Chapel in all their splendour. The Backs is a beautiful place in its own right. One of the most romantic travel experiences I\u2019ve ever had in England \u2013 and in Europe in general \u2013 was taking in this scenery from one of the traditional punt boats<\/em> gliding along the River Cam (it\u2019s every bit as good as Venice!). If you\u2019re going to take a boat trip along the canals, it\u2019s best to go in the morning, when it\u2019s 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).<\/p>\n 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 caf\u00e9 where you can admire its beautiful Art Nouveau stained-glass windows and, of course, enjoy everything on the menu. Try their crab p\u00e2t\u00e9 with gherkins, their sausage rolls or their famous \u2018Chelsea Buns\u2019 drizzled with syrup for just \u00a32.<\/p>\n Hostels in Cambridge<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n The pretty beach huts in Whitstable<\/em>\ud83d\udcf7@wots4totsuk<\/a><\/p>\n Oyster harvesting, a typical activity in Whitstable<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7@anneliesvalk<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n Whitstable recommended by Lucy Sheref, from the blog Wanderluce <\/p>\n <\/a><\/em>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.<\/p>\n Whitstable is a really cute little seaside village with all the charm of a traditional English village. It\u2019s just an hour away by high-speed train from London (you can catch it from St Pancras station, where there\u2019s 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\u2019d recommend heading to the harbour, order a few oysters and lobsters at The Lobster Shack by the sea (Whitstable oysters are famous \u2013 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\u2019t forget to snap a few photos of the lovely beach huts.<\/p>\n 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 \u2013 a place you simply mustn\u2019t miss \u2013 you can order some seafood and eat it right there on the spot, standing up. And if you\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n Hostels in Kent<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n The New Forest is a lovely place<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7@foxybeardpics<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n New Forest, recommended by Jodie from The Little Backpacker<\/a>blog\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n As someone who\u2019s 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\u2019s 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\u2019ll be surrounded by woodland, common land and a wealth of walking and cycling routes, and if you look closely, you\u2019ll spot some wild animals roaming freely (I\u2019m 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.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll 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 \u2013 even if it\u2019s just to go from pub to pub! In fact, I\u2019d recommend popping into the pubs you\u2019ll find in practically every town and village for a bite to eat and a drink. Another tip if you\u2019re visiting in summer is to bring a tent so you can camp for the weekend in one of these spots<\/a>, and visit the New Forest Water Park. And if, on the other hand, you\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n Hostels in Southampton<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n Incredible views of West Lulworth<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7@irkkuliri<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Salcombe is one of Devon\u2019s hidden gems<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7@greggy1<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Devon Recommended<\/i>by Katie from What Katie Is Doing<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Sometimes I feel the urge to leave the UK and travel to somewhere exotic, but if my budget won\u2019t 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\u2019s wall and venture into the famous \u2018Devil\u2019s Cauldron\u2019 (the \u201cDevil\u2019s Cauldron\u201d), where you can see how the force of the water has carved its way through the gleaming black rock and, for a moment, you\u2019ll forget you\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n After exploring Devon\u2019s 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\u2019s day is every bit as good as the Mediterranean coast and where you\u2019ll often find plenty of surfers catching the waves. It\u2019s 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\u2019re prepared in case it rains, because this place is anything but dry. And even so, you\u2019ll love it all the same!<\/p>\n Hostels in Devon<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n Thanet, recommended by Jailan from the blog Savoir There <\/a><\/em><\/p>\n My favourite place in the UK is Thanet, on the east coast of Kent, home to Margate \u2013 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.<\/p>\n 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\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n Nearby are also Ramsgate (the country\u2019s 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\u2019t leave without trying what\u2019s known as the best pizza in the country at GB Pizza (though you\u2019ll need to work it off afterwards with a stroll whilst watching the sunset over the sand).<\/p>\n Hostels in Kent<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n A scene straight out of Harry Potter \ud83d\udcf7@ermesia<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n A really cool bookshop where you can while away the hours \ud83d\udcf7@emmyivanova<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Recommended by Jennifer Gale<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Alnwick, in Northumberland, is one of those places where you really feel like you\u2019ve 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\u2019ll 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\u2019s well worth doing is hopping on one of the boats that take you to the Farne Islands for \u00a37. You\u2019re guaranteed an hour\u2019s entertainment as you watch hundreds of puffins, seals and other seabirds perched on the rocks.<\/p>\n Alnwick Castle is another must-see attraction, and it\u2019s also where some scenes from the Harry Potter films were shot (you\u2019re sure to recognise it as you get closer!). As for me, being a bit of a bookworm, I love Barter Books, Alnwick\u2019s 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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n Hostels in Newcastle<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n Altrincham Market in Manchester is a foodie\u2019s paradise with stalls serving all sorts of things\u2615\ud83d\udcf7@asideofsweet<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Recommended by Jaz Lewis<\/a><\/p>\n <\/em>Manchester is a city with many personalities. You can find literally everything there, which is why it\u2019s ideal for a weekend break (not to mention that the people are really friendly!). Wandering through the streets of the Northern Quarter is <\/em>well worth <\/em>it, and it\u2019s also home to some of the city\u2019s best street art. Manchester is also a very gay-friendly<\/em> place where you\u2019ll find plenty of gay clubs and bars, particularly in the Canal Street area. If you\u2019re looking for a chic atmosphere, hop on a tram (it\u2019s 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\u2019ll have no trouble finding places to go out on a budget. In fact, Manchester\u2019s nightlife is some of the best in the UK (I\u2019m being objective here, mind you! ha ha) with events like The Warehouse Project \u2013 four months of raves<\/em> every weekend in a former air-raid shelter (trust me, you\u2019ll have an unforgettable night).<\/p>\n If you fancy a delicious brunch <\/em>with plenty of vegetarian options, head to the centrally located Federal Caf\u00e9 or the Allotment, where you can fill your stomach and tackle that inevitable hangover. Although if you\u2019re looking for something a bit cheaper, you could also head to Altrincham Market; I absolutely love their avocado toast! (It\u2019s simple but delicious). For geeks and science lovers, I\u2019d encourage you to pop along to the Jodrell Bank Observatory, home to the world\u2019s third-largest telescope. And for football fans, or simply to experience a quintessentially Manchester experience, head to Old Trafford and visit Manchester United\u2019s stadium for around 20 pounds (and don\u2019t forget that in Manchester, people LOVE football, and the rivalry between City and United fans is everywhere!).<\/p>\n Hostels in Manchester<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n You\u2019ll find the best brunch in Sheffield at Tamper Coffee \ud83d\udcf7@emma.v.martell\u00a0<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Sheffield\u2019s street art is really cool and is sure to catch your eye<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7@emma.v.martell<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Recommended by Minka Guides<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n In my opinion, Sheffield is a very underrated destination. It\u2019s a hugely creative city with a thousand things to see and do. Going shopping, for example, is a brilliant idea, but if you\u2019d 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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n After all that walking, it\u2019s time for a drink or two, and with Sheffield\u2019s huge student population, you\u2019ll 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\u2019t 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\u2019s teeming with them!). The Riverside is brilliant on a sunny day, and another that\u2019s really cosy and authentic is The Old Queens Head. And although it\u2019s completely unrelated, if you also like alpacas, llamas and reindeer, head to Mayfield Alpaca Farm on the outskirts of Sheffield \u2013 you\u2019ll have a brilliant afternoon!<\/p>\n Hostels in Sheffield<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0York Minster is a stunning Gothic cathedral\ud83d\udcf7@zihov<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n![\"Bristol](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/igersbristol-1.jpg\")
<\/p>\n2. The Lake District<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"El](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/amielw_.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"El](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/fellsidephotography.jpg\")
<\/p>\n3. Bath<\/h2>\n
![\"Bath](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/sunshinetogold.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Te](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/poppy_loves_london.jpg\")
<\/p>\n4. South Dorset<\/h2>\n
![\"Jurassic](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/samiosmith.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Corfe](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/DORSET-surreyhillscountryside.jpg\")
<\/p>\n5. Brighton
\n![\"Brighton](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/svenjasparkling.jpg\")
<\/h2>\n![\"Brighton](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/Photo-16-07-2016-11-51-21.jpg\")
<\/p>\n6. The Cotswolds<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"Cotswolds\"](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/000nel000.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Castle](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/COTSOWLS-YESdiman_zi_est.jpg\")
<\/em><\/p>\n7. London<\/h2>\n
![\"Arte](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/yousef_4s.jpg\")
<\/em><\/p>\n![\"Cereal](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/YES-sophialeestein.jpg\")
<\/p>\n8. Liverpool<\/h2>\n
![\"Canales](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/j1llj0nes.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Musica](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/visitliverpool_.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\n<\/b><\/p>\n9. Newcastle upon Tyne<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"El](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/lolaroberto.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Centro](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/deborah.mace_.jpg\")
<\/p>\n10. Cornwall<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"playa](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/things-to-do-in-st-ive-porthgwidden-beach-the-island-@perminder_klair.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Cornwall\"](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/swcp-boscastle-cornwall-2.jpg\")
<\/p>\n11. Cambridge<\/h2>\n
![\"Cambridge\"](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/emmyivanova.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Cambridge\"](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/eve.piri_.jpg\")
<\/p>\n12. Whitstable, Kent<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"Whitstable\"](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/wots4totsuk.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Whitstable\"](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/anneliesvalk.jpg\")
<\/p>\n13. New Forest<\/h2>\n
![\"New](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/rdalderman.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"New](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/rey.jpg\")
<\/p>\n14. Devon<\/h2>\n
![\"West](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/irkkuliri.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Salcombe](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/greggy1.jpg\")
<\/p>\n15. Margate, Kent<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"Isla](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/FullSizeRender-3.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Ramsgate\"](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/IMG_0742.jpg\")
<\/p>\n16. Alnwick, Northumberland<\/h2>\n
![\"Alnwick](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/YES-ermesia.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Alnwick\"](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/YES-emmyivanova.jpg\")
<\/p>\n17. Manchester<\/h2>\n
![\"Manchester\"](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/bryydz_-1.jpg\")
The bee, Manchester\u2019s symbol, can be seen as street art in the Northern Quarter \ud83d\udcf7@bryydz_<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n![\"Altrincham](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/asideofsweet.jpg\")
<\/p>\n18. Sheffield
\n![\"Sheffield\"](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/emma.v.martell-2.jpg\")
<\/h2>\n![\"Sheffield](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/emma.v.martell-3.jpg\")
<\/p>\n19. York
\n![\"York](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/zihov-YORK.jpg\")
<\/h2>\n