Known to the common man for the Beatles, Big Ben, and its Royal heritage that has continued for many generations – the United Kingdom offers its guests a variety of spectacular experiences.
From the city buzz in London to the rural villages in Cotswolds, historical greatness will be the highlight of each of these places across the country.
This article explores tourist attractions that you can include in your UK itinerary. Let’s begin!
Buckingham Palace
A trip to the UK will never be complete without a tour of the Royal Family residence in central London. With 775 rooms, the palace is a significant historic landmark in the UK. If you would like to visit the staterooms where official entertainment events are held by the Queen, be sure to plan a tour in August or September as they open for public viewing.
During your visit, you will notice that the palace gardens are one of the largest and the most opulent private gardens in London. If you are an art fanatic, you can visit the Queen’s Gallery which exhibits the Royal collection. This is made up of over one million objects including paintings, works on paper, and photographs that are personally and officially owned by Queen Elizabeth II.
Remember to add this incredible experience to your UK itinerary, and don’t forget to pre-book your tickets for a guided tour to Buckingham Palace.
Big Ben
Known by the common tongue as Big Ben, this is one of the essential destinations that needs to be on your UK bucket list. Renamed in 2012 as the Elizabeth Tower, this is one of London’s most famous tourist attractions and one of the most instagrammable places in the UK – particularly due to its incredible architectural details.
This Victorian Gothic structure is a British cultural icon that is located at the political centre in London at the Palace of Westminster. Big Ben is also one of the most prominent symbols of the UK’s parliamentary democracy and is well-known for its reliability and accuracy of time.
Oxford Street
Another spectacular location that you must visit in London is Oxford Street. This is one of the busiest shopping streets with over 300 shopping stores dedicated to entertainment, technology, homeware, and innovation.
Oxford Street is also home to many high-end fashion brands and top designer wear with styles that will tantalize its guests. If you are excited to see the biggest upcoming trends in the world, Oxford Street is the perfect addition to your UK itinerary.
The British Museum
Another wonderful location for your UK itinerary is the British Museum. Located in London, this was the first public national museum in the world dedicated to human history, art, and culture. Considered one of the most-visited tourist attractions in the UK, the British Museum has an endless collection of artefacts drawn from across the world.
This tour usually takes about 3 to 4 hours of your time, but there is also a fantastic introductory tour of 90 minutes taking you through some of the most valuable historical pieces such as the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon Sculptures, Crouching Venus, and the bust of Ramesses the Great.
If you are planning to stay closer to London during your tour, don’t forget to add the British Museum to your UK itinerary.
London Eye
Enjoy cityscapes?! Then this will be one of your favourite attractions to visit in London. The London Eye is popular amongst both tourists and Londoners alike. At a height of 135 meters (443 ft), this structure enables viewers to get one of the highest public viewing points in the city of London.
It has also made many appearances in popular culture – including in many British movies and music videos. The London Eye is an iconic landmark that symbolises modern London.
A ticket to this structure also offers chocolate, champagne and wine tasting experiences. Be sure to add this to your UK itinerary if you fancy a visit to the world’s tallest observation wheel. This will make you feel like you are on top of the world!
Windsor Castle
Located a short drive away from central London, this monument lays claim to a history of nearly 1,000 years. Windsor Castle has been the family home for many British monarchs and remains an official residence of Queen Elizabeth II. The castle has some key highlights that attract many tourists, especially since it is the oldest and largest lived-in castle in the world.
One of many key ceremonies at Windsor castle is the custom of changing guards. This is a 30-minute ceremony that is not to be missed! Tourists also gain access to stroll the hallways of the luxurious state apartments with some of the finest late-Georgian interiors in the country.
If you are an enthusiast of gothic architecture, St. George’s chapel will please you with some of its mystique beauty. A tour of Windsor Castle is a must-have in your UK itinerary.
Westminster Abbey
The venue of the most famous royal wedding of the century, Westminster Abbey is second on the list of most picturesque destinations to visit in the UK. Located in the city of Westminster, London – this landmark is a beautiful, gigantic Gothic abbey church.
Westminster Abbey is a place of worship, celebration and ceremony for many of the historical royal events that have taken place in the past – such as the coronations of the previous 39 monarchs of the UK.
The church has also been the final resting place of great kings, queens, poets, musicians, scientists and politicians of the past. Located in the heart of London, you can add this landmark to your UK itinerary to have an experience that will last a lifetime.
National Gallery
Housing a collection of over 2,300 paintings dating back to the mid-13th century, the National Gallery is the second most-visited museum in London. One of the best things about the National Gallery is that its main art collection is made available to the public display at no cost.
Guests can also enjoy the highly recommended guided tours and lunchtime lectures for free. If you are an art-lover, this is one of the top things to do in London for free. Be sure to add this location to your UK itinerary and plan a tour when you are in central London.
Stonehenge
This is one of the prominent landmarks in the United Kingdom and a prehistoric monument that was built in 3000 BC. This iconic location was added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites in 1986 and attracts many tourists from across the world.
This attraction could be considered one of the most intriguing places to visit – mainly due to the mystery that surrounds it. There is various folklore surrounding the monument, while some believe these stone pillars have healing powers. Stonehenge is a glorious landmark that is only 1.5 hours away from central London and will truly be an exceptional addition to your UK travel itinerary.
Tintagel Castle
If you are an admirer of the legend of King Arthur, a tour of the Tintagel Castle is the right addition to your UK itinerary. This popular tourist attraction is said to be a medieval fortification built to protect previous kingdoms and is said to be the birthplace of King Arthur.
This will be an opportunity to immerse yourself in stories and myths about the legend while being surrounded by stunning scenery. The Tintagel Castle is located by the sea with one narrow rocky passage that allows you into this folklore-filled destination. Don’t forget to visit the brooding figure on the island – a life-sized bronze sculpture inspired by the legend of King Arthur.
Eden Project
The Eden Project has operated for the last 23 years intending to educate the public about the natural world. It also exposes tourists to issues concerning sustainability and the conscientious use of natural resources. The Eden Project will indulge its visitors with the roar of waterfalls, stunning scenery, the rich smell of nature, and the taste of fresh produce from their restaurants.
This tour generally takes about 3 to 4 hours, and it assures a full sensory experience. This brilliant landscape project is located in Cornwall and is also the largest indoor rainforest in the world. If this is the type of adventure you are looking for, be sure to add the Eden Project to your UK itinerary.
Chester Zoo
Spread across approximately 400 acres of land, Chester Zoo is considered one of the largest zoos in the UK. This is also one of the most-visited wildlife attractions in Cheshire, England. Tourists can visit over 35000 animals and explore many acres of zoological gardens.
This zoo is greatly committed to the conservation of certain animals like giraffes, elephants, lions, tigers and birds amongst many others. Being 4 hours away from central London, this would be the perfect addition to your travel itinerary for the UK. Remember to collect a memorable souvenir at the gift shop on your way out.
Hyde Park
Looking for stunning natural scenery in one of the busiest cities in the world? Then Hyde Park is the perfect destination for you! Established in 1887, this is the oldest park in London. With beautiful pastures to dip your toes into and breathtaking views of the lake, this is a well-known spot to unwind and relax.
If you enjoy boating, you can also set sail by hiring one in the Serpentine – the famous lake of Hyde Park. Visitors also have the opportunity to participate in many events and activities that are regularly held on open spaces.
Furthermore, you will also come across multiple historical monuments placed across the park. If this seems like the perfect day out in London for you, be sure to add Hyde Park to your UK itinerary.
Canterbury Cathedral
This is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Canterbury. The Cathedral is also the main residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury. In a city overflowing with history and culture, you could plan a private tour to visit the Canterbury Cathedral, Leeds Castle and the cliffs of Dover.
But this beautiful gothic city has more to offer than its religious relics. Canterbury also has other entertaining aspects making it a great cultural and entertainment hub with great shopping experiences, art galleries, and cafes.
Royal Academy of Arts
If you are an arts & culture enthusiast, this is one location that we highly recommend. Located in London, the Royal Academy of Arts is home to many world-class paintings, including other art and architectural pieces.
The Royal Academy of Arts is known in the UK for their annual public event, called the Summer Exhibition. This is the world’s oldest open art exhibition. Everything you will see at the Summer Exhibition will represent the current affairs of the art world. This exhibition is a unique window to all areas of the contemporary art world.
Science And Industry Museum
If you happen to be looking for things to do around Manchester, the Science and Industry Museum is a great choice to spend 2-3 hours of your time. The museum is filled with interesting exhibits, from cotton processing machines used back in the day to interactive and technology based exhibits for children.
In addition to learning about the history of Manchester, other key highlights include the Amazônia – consisting of photos of the rainforests, landscapes and indigenous people of South America.
York Minster, City of York
Located in north east England, York Minster is one of the most magnificent cathedrals you will come across in your lifetime. Visitors to the York Minster are welcomed to an iconic and expansive stained glass made in the Middle ages.
For those seeking an old-town English experience, the city of York would also be a perfect addition to their travel itinerary.
Other tourist attractions in the city of York include the City Walls that run along the length of the city for 5 kilometres, the Shambles roadway – famous for its fine old timber-framed buildings and the National Railway Museum – which holds the largest and oldest collection of steam engines and royal trains.
Lake District
Lake district is UK’s second largest National Park and a World Heritage Site popular for its lakes, forests and mountains. Hence, its reputation as a holiday destination and a magical getaway for nature loving couples. Visitors to lake district will get the opportunity to explore spectacular lakes, ascending mountains and beautiful valleys.
Roman Baths
This is a well-preserved thermae in the city of Bath in Somerset, England. The structure consists of a group of rooms designed for public bathing, relaxation, and social liveliness – developed to a degree of high sophistication by the ancient Romans.
The artefacts of this religious spa remain hidden beneath the beautiful city of Bath, so if these roman baths intrigue you, be sure to add this historic landmark to your UK itinerary.
Cotswolds
If you are a lover of nature and enjoy strolls with stunning sceneries, Cotswolds will be one of your favourite destinations in the UK. This town is famous for quintessential markets and villages built with honey-coloured stone.
Tourists and guests could expect excellent culinary experiences, luxury cottages to stay, farms, wild animals, camping and learn about history, culture and architecture. Cotswolds offers nearly 800 square miles of unspoilt countryside spread across Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire.
Tate Modern
Famously known for its tendency to have an interesting twist to its activities, Tate Modern is a grand-looking landmark that is Britain’s national museum of modern and contemporary art. This is also the world’s most visited contemporary art gallery that Queen Elizabeth II officially opened in the year 2000.
Tate Modern has a collection of art that dates back to 1900, including the works of international artists like Picasso, Dalí, Matisse, and Warhol. If you are an enthusiast of modern and contemporary art, this would be the perfect addition to your UK itinerary.
Warwick Castle
Located in Warwickshire, this phenomenal landmark is a medieval castle developed from a wooden fort. Built by William the Conqueror, the castle is reminiscent of Britain’s 14th-century military architecture.
A tour around the castle would take about 4 hours, and visitors will have plenty to see inside this grand historic building. If you are planning to add Warwick Castle to your UK itinerary, don’t miss the Falconer Quest which is Britain’s biggest bird of prey show.
St Micheal’s Mount
This is another spectacular location that promises stunning sceneries. St. Micheal’s Mount is commonly known amongst tourists as a laid-back, striking rocky island that features a small village along with a medieval church & castle.
Located in Cornwall, this is a 6-hour drive away from London and gives you the perfect opportunity to plan a road trip in the UK. This island has its own operating civil parish and links to the town by a man-made causeway of granite setts.
Keep in mind to pre-book your tickets before visiting St. Micheal’s Mount as there is a limitation on the number of visitors per day. But if this is the perfect day trip for you, be sure to add this notable landmark to get a glimpse of history through time and tide.
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