PalmaCoco Travel

The UK is rich in history, culture, and attractions, making it an ideal destination for city breaks. Whether you’re planning a trip with the family or looking for a romantic or adventurous getaway for adults, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your guide to exploring some of the best UK city destinations, including family-friendly activities, adult-oriented attractions, and the rich history that ties it all together.

City Breaks for Families

Visit London

London is an iconic destination offering a wealth of family-friendly attractions. Start with a visit to the Natural History Museum, where kids will marvel at the dinosaur exhibits and interactive displays.

A short walk away is the Science Museum, perfect for hands-on learning.

Other must-visit spots include:

The London Eye: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and capture incredible photos. Tickets start at around £29pp and are usually cheaper to purchase online. For further information see: Londoneye.com

ZSL London Zoo: A favorite for animal lovers, with exhibits like Land of the Lions and Penguin Beach. The zoo aims to further conservation and education and is world renowned for it’s science and conservation work. Tickets prices start at around £27.00 per adult. Visit Londonzoo.org

Westminster Abbey

Explore centuries of royal history with family-friendly guided tours. The Abbey has been hosting royal coronations since 1066 and is the final resting place for many British monarchs. Less than a mile from London Victoria and London Waterloo stations, it’s a fascinating visit. Find out more at Westminster-abbey.org

Tower of London

Learn about centuries of history, from crown jewels to medieval fortifications, meet the famous ravens – the guardians of the tower and view the Royal Ceremonial Dress collection, some if which dates back centuries. Visit ‘Historic Royal Palaces’ website for further information.

Houses of Parliament:

Visit Palace of Westminster and see the legislative chambers, get close up to the Elizabeth Tower and see where Guy Fawkes hid! Guided tours last around 90 minutes and has visitor facilities such as a cafe and shops.

Getting Around London

London has one of the most extensive public transport networks in the world. Use the London Underground, buses, or riverboats to navigate the city efficiently. Contactless payments or an Oyster card offer the best value for travel. Visit Transport For London website for tickets, maps and travel updates.

Special Events in London

During the Christmas season, Hyde Park transforms into Winter Wonderland, offering rides, food stalls, festive entertainment, and ice-skating rinks for all ages.

New Year’s Eve sees the Embankment come alive with fireworks lighting up the iconic skyline and the London Eye and celebrations are attended by around 100,000! Tickets start around £20 depending on the viewing area chosen visit london.gov.uk/events for information about lots of London events.

Trouping The Colour

honoring the Monarch’s birthday with the famous parade. The parade begins at Buckingham Palace and travels along The Mall to Horse Guards Parade. There, the monarch inspects the troops before leading the guards in a parade back to Buckingham Palace.

Notting Hill Carnival

The city’s biggest and best street party celebrating culture and diversity with calypso dancing, steel drums and breathtaking costumes of every colour. Usually taking place in late August, the three day event offers ticketed and free entry options. Visit nhcarnival.org to learn more.

Tourist Tax: London does not currently impose a specific tourist tax, this may change in the near future, and accommodation charges often include VAT. Be sure to check your booking details for clarity.

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Visit York

Step back in time with a visit to York, a city steeped in history. Families can enjoy a walk along the medieval City Walls, offering a unique perspective of the city’s heritage. Cobbled streets, architecture and events celebrating York’s medieval heritage, time spent in this fascinating city will leave a lasting impression.

Other highlights include:

Clifford’s Tower

Discover panoramic views and learn about its rich medieval history, built by William the Conquerer, this medieval stronghold has a fascinating history.

JORVIK Viking Centre

An immersive journey into the Viking age with lifelike displays, living history encampments, live actors and interactive exhibits. Various events are held throughout the year and it’s always advised to book in advance.

York Minster:

A magnificent Gothic cathedral with family-friendly tours and a tower climb for spectacular city vistas. Dating back to the 7th century this breathtaking cathedral offers a step back in time with beautiful medieval stained glass and exquisite handcrafted stone. Standing majestically within the centre of York, visiting the cathedral is the ideal way to spend a few hours.

The Shambles

Wander through the famous cobbled street which inspired Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley. Enjoy quaint shops and cafes, overhanging shop fronts and wares served through open windows reminiscent of days gone by.

Getting Around York

York is compact and easily walkable. For longer distances, use local buses or the York Sightseeing Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus which takes in the popular sight seeing attractions and locations.

Special Events in York

York hosts the York Ice Trail in February, where intricate ice sculptures are displayed throughout the city.

During Halloween, the Ghost Walks are a family-friendly way to learn about the city’s spooky past. Get Your Guide offers some great guided tours.

Tourist Tax: York has introduced a small tourist tax for overnight visitors to support local infrastructure and tourism initiatives. Check with your accommodation for details.

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Visit Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital is a treasure trove for families. Affectionately known as ‘Auld Reekie’, (Old Smokey) due to the smog of the industrial age, Edinburgh is an eclectic mix of rich history and modern innovation. Start with Edinburgh Castle, perched atop a volcanic rock with stunning views and fascinating exhibits, including the Scottish Crown Jewels.

Other attractions include:

Holyrood Palace

The Queen’s official residence in Scotland. Standing at the end of the Royal Mile with swathes of souvenir shops and charming cafes, where patrons are entertained by street performers and artists; the stunning palace stands with beautifully manicured gardens. Housing the Throne Room, State Rooms and the Great Gallery adourned with portraits of Scottish greats such as Macbeth, Mary Queen of Scots and Robert The Bruce.

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

A mix of history, optical illusions, and hands-on fun. Where nothing is as it seems, this is great fun for all the family.

Dynamic Earth

This fascinating science center offers interactive exhibits about Earth’s history and ecosystems, a 6K planetarium and you can even experience a 4D flight and ground-shaking earthquake!

Getting Around Edinburgh

Edinburgh offers excellent public transport with buses and trams. Purchase a day ticket for unlimited travel within the city or take the tram or sightseeing bus. You can even book the FREE guided walking tour which takes in the Old Town and historical points of interest.

Special Events in Edinburgh

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August offers family-friendly performances alongside adult-oriented shows.

The city also hosts a spectacular Hogmanay Celebration, featuring fireworks and a torchlight procession to welcome in the New Year – the Scots know how to celebrate!

Tourist Tax: Edinburgh applies a small per-night tax for overnight visitors, which helps fund city services and tourism infrastructure. Expect this to be added to your hotel or Airbnb bill.

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City Break For Adults

Visit Bath

Known for its Roman heritage and Georgian architecture, Bath offers a relaxing retreat for adults. Visit the ancient Roman Baths, where you can learn about the city’s history and even sample the mineral-rich waters.

Other highlights include:

Prior Park Landscape Garden

A National Trust property with breathtaking views and tranquil walks. This 18th century landscape garden is home to an iconic Palladian bridge, historic dams and stunning scenery. Entry costs start around £8 and the visitbath.co.uk website has further information.

Thermae Bath Spa

Unwind in the rooftop pool with views over the city. Treat yourself to a range of spa treatments and bathe Bath’s naturally warm, mineral-rich waters, just as the Roman’s did two millennia ago.

Pulteney Bridge

Designed in 1769, the famous landmark is one of the most photographed sites in Bath. One of only four bridges in the world aligned on both sides with charming shops and cafes. Spanning the River Avon, you can view the iconic architectural wonder by relaxing river cruise.

The Royal Crescent

A stunning example of Georgian architecture and home to a museum that offers a glimpse into 18th-century life. The iconic landmark was built in 1767 and is a sweeping crescent consisting of 30, Grade 1 listed terrace houses, overlooking Royal Victoria Park.

Getting Around Bath

Bath is compact and walkable. Taxis and local buses are available for trips outside the city centre. Visit travelwest.info for public transport information.

Special Events in Bath

Bath’s Christmas Market is one of the most enchanting in the UK, with dozens of stalls selling crafts, gifts, and seasonal treats.

In May, the Bath Festival features music, literature, and arts performances across the city.

Tourist Tax: Bath has introduced a tourist levy on overnight stays, contributing to the preservation of its heritage sites and supporting tourism infrastructure.

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Visit Liverpool

For music lovers and cultural enthusiasts, Liverpool is a must-visit. Begin with the Beatles Story Museum, dedicated to the legendary band, and enjoy interactive exhibits and memorabilia.

Other attractions include:

Anfield Stadium Tour

For football fans, explore the home of Liverpool FC. You can book a tour of the stadium, visit the locker room and see behind the scenes of the famous ground. Super fans might be interested in The Anfield Experience, which gains you VIP access to exclusive areas.

Albert Dock: Packed with museums like the Tate Liverpool and Liverpool Maritime, galleries, and waterfront bars. The Dock is said to be the most visited free tourist attraction outside of London with more than six million visitors each year.

Walker Art Gallery

Home to an impressive collection of art spanning centuries. A must for art lovers and history enthusiasts, collections include paintings, sculptures and decorative art, some dating from 1300.

Cavern Club

Relive the magic of live music in the iconic venue where the Beatles started their journey. The iconic venue features a pub, live lounge and the iconic stage in the arched, brick cellar.

Liverpool Cathedral

A visit over the festive period delights with a dazzling array of lights illuminating the cathedral, whilst those who can manage a climb to the top are rewarded with stunning panoramic city views. Bus routes 82, 82A and 86 stop nearby.

Getting Around Liverpool

Whilst the city centre is walkable, Liverpool has an excellent bus network and a Merseyrail system for efficient travel around the city. The Visit Liverpool website has helpful information to help you to plan you trip.

Special Events in Liverpool

Liverpool’s International Music Festival showcases talent from around the world every summer. More than 200 acts from 20 countries come together to entertain over the 2 week festival which takes place in August.

Tourist Tax: Liverpool does not currently impose a tourist tax, but this may change in the near future and accommodation charges include VAT. Always verify booking details.

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Visit Manchester

Known for its vibrant nightlife, sporting heritage, and industrial history, Manchester offers plenty for adult travellers. Explore the John Rylands Library, a stunning neo-Gothic building, or tour Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium for football fans.

Heaton Park

One of the largest municipal parks in Europe, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. You can try your hand at bee keeping, laze away the day on the rowing boats or take a tram ride from the tramway museum.

Northern Quarter

A hub for indie shops, vintage stores, cafes, and vibrant street art. The perfect place to purchase alternative gifts, be spoilt for choice of food vendors and trendy cafes of visit after dark to sample wine and cocktail bars in the nightlife hub of Manchester.

Manchester Art Gallery

Featuring works from Pre-Raphaelites to contemporary artists, the gallery recently celebrated it’s 200th year. As well as collections and exhibitions, the gallery regularly hosts events, workshops and tours.

Science and Industry Museum

Dive into Manchester’s innovative past and present, from the city’s cotton industry heritage to one of the first Rolls-Royce motorcars. Entry is free, and paid parking is located on nearby streets.

Don’t miss the Christmas Markets, which span several squares with festive food, gifts, and entertainment.

Getting Around: Manchester’s Metrolink tram system connects key attractions. Buses and trains provide additional options for regional travel.

Tourist Tax: Manchester became the first UK city to launch a tourist tax for visitors. The City Visitor Charge is currently £1 per room, per night.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or planning a grown-up escape, UK cities offer a mix of history, activities, and special events to create unforgettable memories. Pack your bags and explore the best that these destinations have to offer!

This article contains a number of links to external websites providing further relevant information to help you to plan your trip. Whilst all links were checked and deemed suitable and correct at the time of writing, PalmaCoco Travel cannot be held responsible for the content of external websites. PalmaCoco Travel is not affiliated to any of the organisations of links contained within this article.