Today I want to bring you my list of the best places to visit in the UK for a weekend. There are a lot of great spots to travel in the United Kingdom for a couple days. Whether you enjoy city breaks, country getaways, or coastal destinations, there’s a 2-day trip in the UK that will fit your style. If you’re looking inspiration for where to go in the UK for a weekend, my list will help you choose the perfect place for you. I’ve included a map, too.
Places to Visit in the UK for a Weekend
My guide to places to visit in the UK for a weekend will show you a wide range of travel destinations. Whether you love the English countryside or the Scottish isles, buzzing cities or bucolic villages, there’s a short break you’ll want to take.
No matter if you’re looking to travel to England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, my list will show you the best places to visit in the UK.
Some are easy weekend trips from London, while others make more sense if you’re coming from other parts of the country (or beyond).
I’ve traveled to all the destinations I’ve recommended (plenty of them more than once), and I can personally tell you how worthy they are of a visit.
There are additional exciting ideas in the book 52 Great British Weekends if you want more inspiration, too. You can get it on Amazon here.
1. Weekend in Bath
I’ll start my list of the best places to visit in the UK for a weekend with Bath. It’s one of the most beautiful cities in England, not least because of its golden stone buildings and rich history (everyone from the ancient Romans to Jane Austen was here).
The Roman Baths are amazing to see, and the city’s Jane Austen connections draw fans from across the globe. The curves and columns of the Royal Crescent and The Circus are the stuff of legend (and filming locations for many popular TV shows and movies).
The plethora of independent restaurants and shops in Bath make the city worth a visit as well. From bookshops to boutiques, there’s enough to do to fill a weekend in Bath.
There’s plenty to see outside the city, too. If you want to, you can explore Bath and the Cotswolds together. It’s fun to see the city and take in some of the idyllic villages and towns that make this part of Britain so beloved.
If you want to take this UK city break, you can book a hotel in Bath here. I’ve stayed at The Yard in Bath and I’m a big fan of its stylish atmosphere. You can book a room here.
2. Weekend in the Peak District and Derbyshire
The Peak District and Derbyshire make for another of my top picks for places to go in the UK for a weekend. With stunning scenery, this area is not only full of natural beauty, but also some of the most famous stately homes in the country.
Chatsworth House is renowned in its own right, and it’s also famous for being a filming location for Pride & Prejudice and other movies set in England.
Other stately homes in the Peak District have been used as filming locations for houses from Bronte sister novels. From Haddon Hall to Kedleston Hall, there’s no shortage of them to tour.
Towns like Bakewell and Matlock are worth visiting as well, and there are plenty of hikes and walks to do in the Peak District National Park.
If this trip appeals, you can book accommodation in Derbyshire here. My top pick for a place to stay in this part of Britain is The Cow Dalbury. It’s has stylish atmosphere, and you can book it here.
3. Weekend in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is next on my list of the best places to visit in the UK for a weekend. The Scottish capital is one of the most beautiful cities in the United Kingdom, and there’s more than enough to do here to fill 2 days.
Auld Reekie (as the locals call it) is beloved for its historic streets, hilltop castle, and village-like neighborhoods. The views from Calton Hill and the Scott Monument are awe-inspiring, Dean Village is charming, and the Royal Mile is steeped in heritage.
And that’s to say nothing of waterfront areas like Leith. It’s home to some of the best restaurants in the city.
Places like Arthur’s Seat and Princes Street Gardens are great for getting outdoors, and the museums in Edinburgh are perfect places to get your culture fix.
If you want to take this weekend trip, you can book a hotel in Edinburgh here. I’ve stayed in the city many times and my go-to is the Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh. It’s in an ideal location by the Royal Mile and Victoria Street. You can book a room here.
4. Weekend in The Cotswolds
When it comes to the countryside, it’s hard to top the Cotswolds. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) deserves a place on my list of the best places to visit in the UK for a weekend.
From the chocolate-box Cotswolds villages to the picture-pretty landscapes and historic market towns, this part of Britain is beautiful all around.
Whether you want to drive or travel to the Cotswolds without a car, you can do and see a lot here in a couple days.
From visiting villages like Painswick and Upper Slaughter to touring National Trust properties in the Cotswolds, there are plenty of ways to spend your time in the area.
There are fun Cotswolds walks you can take in places like Moreton-in-Marsh and Burford, too. They’re great ways to explore the region on foot.
If you’re visiting at a particular time of year, my spring weekend in the Cotswolds, autumn weekend in the Cotswolds, and winter weekend in the Cotswolds guides can help. My interactive Cotswolds map is a useful resource as well.
If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in the Cotswolds here. I’ve stayed in the area countless times and I love Thyme. It’s a beautiful country house hotel surrounded by lush gardens. You can book a room here.
5. Weekend in North Wales
North Wales is another of my favorite places to visit in the UK for a weekend. This part of Britain is known for its stunning landscapes, medieval castles, and dramatic coastline.
There’s no shortage of places to travel in North Wales for a couple days. Snowdonia is ideal for hiking, Llandudno is a seaside resort town, Anglesey has rugged island scenery, Caernarfon features an impressive castle, and Portmeirion feels like an Italian village on the Welsh coast.
You can read more about where to go in this part of the UK on my blog post about a road trip in North Wales. It’s full of ideas for places to visit.
If you like the idea of this trip, you can book accommodation in North Wales here. My favorite place to stay is Portmeirion. It’s truly a fairy tale. You can book a room here.
6. Weekend in Brighton
Down on the south coast in East Sussex, Brighton is another of the top places to visit in the UK for a weekend. It’s one of my favorite easy weekend trips from London by train.
Along with neighboring Hove, this city is popular for its pebble beaches, historic pleasure pier, Royal Pavilion, and narrow streets packed with colorful restaurants and shops.
Just 1 hour by train from the UK capital, Brighton is one of my favorite places to go to the seaside near London. It’s hard to beat the beaches here when the sun is out.
2 days in Brighton is enough time to see everything from the English Channel to the shops and the main attractions. You’ll have time to sun yourself at the beach and experience the city’s famous nightlife and street art scenes while you’re at it.
If this weekend getaway sounds good to you, you can book a hotel in Brighton here. I’ve stayed in many hotels here, and the Brighton Harbour Hotel and Spa is my favorite. I love its maritime decor and location on the waterfront. You can book a room here.
7. Weekend in Dorset
Dorset is next on my list of places to visit in the United Kingdom for a weekend. This county in the south of England is known for its dramatic coastal scenery and beautiful countryside.
There are plenty of places to spend a couple days in Dorset. From the Jurassic Coast on the English Channel to the ancient stone arch at Durdle Door and the cliffs at Lulworth Cove, this area is a seaside lover’s dream.
Places like Poole, Weymouth, and Swanage feature sandy beaches, and Bournemouth is a popular resort town.
You can get to Dorset by train or car from London and other parts of the UK. Once here, it’s easiest to get around by car. You can book a place to stay in Dorset here.
8. Weekend in West Sussex
Next on my list of UK weekend trips is West Sussex. Down in the south of England, this county is an ideal place to escape to for 2 days.
There are plenty of options when it comes to West Sussex weekend breaks. I always enjoy the South Downs National Park, the Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the stunning castle in Arundel.
Petworth, a town full of lovely streets and shops, is also worth a visit. It’s where you can find the grand Petworth House, a 17th-century stately home.
Petworth House has an impressive art collection and grounds designed by renowned 18th-century landscape architect Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.
There are a lot of fun West Sussex walks you can do while you’re here, too. From Knepp Castle Estate to Cissbury Ring and West Chiltington, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
And that’s to say nothing of the wineries, many of which welcome visitors. From Tinwood Estate to Kinsbrook Vineyard, I’ve done tours and tastings at a number of them.
If you want to go on this short break in England, you can book a hotel in West Sussex here. There are lots of good places to stay in this part of Britain.
9. Weekend in the Lake District
Next on my list of places to visit in the UK for a weekend is the Lake District. This is one of the top destinations for nature lovers and fans of country walks. The spectacular scenery and great hiking trails here are hard to beat.
The Lake District is also home to Beatrix Potter’s house and quaint villages with gingerbread shops like Grasmere. Towns like Windermere and Keswick make this one of my favorite British getaways, too.
You can also visit places of historical interest like Blackwell, a famous Arts and Crafts house. Also worth a trip is Brantwood, the home of John Ruskin. He was a leading Victorian art critic and social reformer.
You can get to the Lake District from other parts of the UK by train or car (if you choose the former, here are my top tips for visiting the Lake District without a car).
If this appeals, you can book accommodation in the Lake District here. My top pick for a place to stay for a weekend is Forest Side Hotel. I stayed in a beautiful room here once and I loved the restaurant. You can book here.
10. Weekend in the Scottish Borders
The Scottish Borders are another worthwhile weekend trip in the UK. I used to spend a lot of time in this part of Britain, and I still consider it the most underrated place in the country.
Located just south of Edinburgh, the Borders are deserving of a weekend trip for their pastoral landscapes, impressive stately homes, rugged coastline, and historic abbey ruins.
From coastal walks in St Abbs to Melrose Abbey and Sir Walter Scott’s fairy-tale house at Abbotsford, there’s a lot to love about this part of Scotland. Villages like St Boswells are a delight to explore, too, and Floors Castle is amazing.
I’ve written a lot about this part of the UK here on the A Lady in London blog. You can take a look at my guide to places to visit in the Scottish Borders if you want more ideas.
You can easily get to the Scottish Borders by taking a train to Berwick-upon-Tweed from London or Edinburgh, or by driving from elsewhere in Britain. Once in the area, driving is the best way to get around.
If this sounds good, you can book accommodation in the Borders here. I recommend staying at SCHLOSS Roxburghe Hotel in the Borders. I’ve had great experiences at this place, and you can book a room here.
11. Weekend in Hampshire
Hampshire is another of my favorite places to visit in the UK for a weekend. This county in the south of England is packed with everything from classic villages to scenic countryside, woodlands, and cities.
You can even visit Jane Austen’s house in Chawton, and Highclere Castle, the stately home where Downton Abbey was filmed, while you’re here.
There’s no shortage of cities and towns you can visit during a weekend in Hampshire, too. If you love history, Winchester is the perfect destination. It’s a beautiful cathedral city with enchanting streets.
If villages are your cup of tea, places like East Meon are just the ticket. The colorful thatched-roof cottages here are straight out of a storybook.
If want to get outdoors, the South Downs National Park and the New Forest are ideal places to spend a weekend. The latter has great hotels and restaurants like The Pig in Brockenhurst.
If you want to spend 2 days in Hampshire, you can book a hotel here. I’ve stayed at The Greyhound on The Test Hotel in Stockbridge and I love its country style. You can book a room here.
12. Weekend in the Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands are another of my top picks for places to visit in the United Kingdom for a weekend. It’s hard to beat this part of Britain when it comes to natural beauty.
The hills and glens, lochs and coos all make for rugged landscapes rarely seen outside Scotland. Add to that medieval castles, legendary monsters (in Loch Ness, anyway), and tragic history, and the Scottish Highlands have a lot to discover.
Whether you want to visit the islands in the Hebrides, Inverness, the Cairngorms National Park, or Glen Coe, there are a lot of options for places to travel here.
Depending where you want to go, you can get to the Scottish Highlands from London and other parts of the UK by train or flight to Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen, or other destinations. There are even sleeper trains you can take to save time.
Once in Scotland, you can travel by train, car, or bus to get to where you want to visit. You can also go on a tour with Rabbie’s. You can see their 2-day Scottish Highlands tour here. I’ve taken many tours with them over the years, and I’ve always had great experiences.
If you want to travel independently, you can book accommodation here. I’ve stayed in a lot of places, and my favorite is the Isle of Eriska. Its unique island location and proximity to Oban make this country house hotel a great choice. You can book a room here.
13. Weekend in St Ives
St Ives is next on my list of places to go in the UK for a weekend. This famous town in Cornwall is one of my favorite spots to go to the seaside in England. With scenic coastline, great food, and picture-perfect beaches, it has it all.
St Ives is known for art as well. From Tate St Ives to the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, it’s the perfect place to channel your inner culture vulture. There are lots of local art galleries in town, too.
I went on a weekend trip to St Ives by sleeper train from London, and it was an ideal way to take a short trip from the UK capital without a car. I highly recommend it if you want to spend 2 days in Cornwall.
If you want to take this trip, you can book accommodation in St Ives here. From hotels to cottages, there are lots of great places to stay in town.
14. Weekend in Rye
In East Sussex, Rye is another of the top places to go for a weekend away in the UK. This historic town is full of cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, haunted inns, atmospheric pubs, and idyllic cottages. It’s one of the prettiest towns in England.
There are a lot of fun things to do in Rye. From climbing the church’s bell tower to visiting the former home of writer Henry James, this place has a lot to offer.
Rye is also a short walk from Camber Castle, a historic fortress with Henry VIII connections. It’s one of my favorite castles near London. And that’s to say nothing of the town’s proximity to Camber Sands, one of the best beaches in East Sussex.
But really, the streets. Rye has more than its fair share of pretty ones. From Mermaid Street to Church Square and Watchbell Street, they have me reaching for my camera every time.
If this trip appeals, you can book a hotel in Rye here. If you want something unique, the Mermaid Inn is said to be haunted. You can book a room here to see if it’s true.
15. Weekend in Norfolk
Norfolk is another of the best places to go for a weekend away in the UK. From stately homes to great shopping, beaches, and country pubs, there’s something here for every visitor.
From Burnham Market to Wells-next-the-Sea, this part of England is brimming with fun places to spend weekend in Norfolk. Add to that pretty cities like Norwich and famous coastal spots like Holkham Beach, and there’s a lot to love about this part of Britain.
If you want to take this trip, you can book accommodation here. I’ve stayed at a number of hotels in the area, and my top pick is The Hoste. You can book a room here.
16. Weekend in Chester
Up in Cheshire, Chester is next on my list of places to go for a weekend trip in the UK. It’s hard to top this city for history and charm. With its Roman walls, medieval churches, and half-timbered high street, this place makes me swoon.
Add to that lovely side streets, colorful doors, and one of the most impressive cathedrals in the UK, and Chester is inspiring everywhere you look. There’s a famous zoo here, too.
If you want to take this city break, you can book a hotel in Chester here. There are plenty of options when it comes to accommodation.
17. Weekend in Durham
Next on my list of places in the UK to visit for a weekend is Durham. This city in the north of England is worth a special trip for its hilltop cathedral, well-respected university, historic castle, cobblestone streets, and riverside scenery.
Bursting with heritage, the side streets around Durham University are ideal places to get a glimpse of Britain’s past. The city has cute cafes and peaceful river walks, too.
If you want to spend a couple days in town, you can book a hotel in Durham here. I’ve stayed at a few places in the city, and my top pick is The Townhouse. I like its themed rooms and historic surroundings. You can book a room here.
18. Weekend in Manchester
Manchester is another of the best places to go in the UK for a weekend. One of the UK’s best student cities, it’s full of buzzing restaurants, shops, bars, and streets. The city has a fun atmosphere and a great nightlife scene, too.
There’s heritage here as well. The Castlefield area’s 18th-century canal system is the perfect place to take in Manchester’s textile history.
The Salford Quays dockyards are home to the Daniel Libeskind-designed Imperial War Museum North and The Lowry arts center as well.
If you want to visit, you can book a hotel in Manchester here. I’ve stayed at the Malmaison Manchester, and I like its fun atmosphere and central location. You can book a room here.
19. Weekend in Berkshire
Berkshire is another of my top picks for places to travel in the UK for a weekend. This is a particularly good trip if you’re based in London. It’s so close to the capital you can take the Elizabeth Line to get here.
Once you’ve arrived, there’s plenty to do and see in a weekend. From heading out for a walk in Goring to eating at some of Britain’s best Michelin-starred restaurants in Bray, there’s a lot to entertain visitors.
And that’s to say nothing of Windsor and Eton, where you can tour Windsor Castle and explore the local area.
If you like horse racing, you can time your visit to coincide with events at Newbury Racecourse. You can also attend big seasonal highlights like the races at Royal Ascot.
If this trip appeals, you can book a place to stay in Berkshire here. I’ve stayed at many hotels in the county, and my favorite is Coworth Park. I love the rooms, spa, and grounds in equal measure. You can read my review here and book a room here.
20. Weekend in Northumberland
Northumberland is next on my list of the best places to go for a weekend away in the UK. I used to spend a lot of time in this county in the north of England, and it remains one of my favorite under-the-radar places to visit in the country.
There’s a lot you can do in 2 days in Northumberland, including visiting medieval castles by the sea, taking walks in the Cheviot Hills, seeing the castle and priory on Holy Island, and walking the fortified walls of Berwick-upon-Tweed.
My Northumberland itinerary will show you everything from Alnwick Castle to Bamburgh, and my list of Northumberland destinations can help inspire your travel plans, too.
You can get to Northumberland by train or car. It’s easiest to get around by car once you’re here.
If this trip appeals, you can book accommodation here. My top pick for a place to stay is The Cookie Jar in Alnwick (it’s right near the castle). I loved the interiors as soon as I walked in, and the breakfast is great. You can book it here.
21. Weekend in Nottingham
Nottingham may be more famous for Robin Hood than weekend getaways, but it’s still one of my favorite places to go for a short break in the UK.
Home of the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, this place is known for being a student city.
Beyond the universities, there’s a stunning castle, one of the oldest pubs in England, plenty of historic streets, fun shopping, and a famous statue of Robin Hood.
If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Nottingham here. I’ve stayed at the Lace Market Hotel, and I’m a fan of the unique rooms and central location. You can book a room here.
22. Weekend in Belfast
Belfast is another of the best places to visit in the UK for a weekend. Known for everything from the Titanic Quarter to the Peace Wall, there’s a lot to do and see in this part of Northern Ireland.
Add to that fun pubs, exciting restaurants, and picturesque scenery along the Causeway Coastal Route, and Belfast makes for the perfect weekend escape.
If this trip sounds good, you can book a hotel in Belfast here. I’ve stayed at the Malmaison Belfast and I like its beautiful exterior and city center location. You can book a room here.
23. Weekend in Birmingham
In the Midlands, Birmingham is an underrated place to visit in the UK for a weekend. This bustling city has everything from centuries-old pubs to colorful creative districts.
Birmingham’s contemporary library gets my inner architecture (and book) lover excited, and the pre-Raphaelite masterpieces in the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery are worth a special trip.
If you’re visiting in winter, the Birmingham Christmas markets are fun to experience. If not, it’s still enjoyable to admire the city’s heritage buildings, walk through its Victorian shopping arcades, stroll along its canals, and take in its colorful streets.
If you want to go on this getaway, you can book a hotel in Birmingham here. There’s a variety of places to stay in the city center, so you’re bound to find something that fits your style.
24. Weekend in Aberdeen
Aberdeen is another of my favorite weekend getaways in the UK. This Scottish port city is a great place to visit if you enjoy a mix of urban attractions and coastal castles.
Known as the Granite City for its stone buildings, Aberdeen offers visitors everything from a historic university to a picture-pretty old fishing village to explore. There’s a vibrant street art scene here as well.
Seaside fortresses like Dunnottar Castle are quick and easy train trips from Aberdeen, too. They add a legendary element to a weekend in the city, and they’re great places to get into nature.
If you want to take this short break, you can book a hotel in Aberdeen here. There are plenty of good places to stay in the city center.
25. Weekend in Derry / Londonderry
Back over in Northern Ireland, Derry / Londonderry is another fun weekend trip in the UK. There are direct flights from the UK capital and other cities, so it’s easy to come here for a couple days.
Derry / Londonderry is known for its riverfront scenery, exciting pubs and restaurants, and panoramic views.
The city is a fun place to do everything from stand-up paddle boarding on the River Foyle to discovering the independent shops and cafes on the side streets and hidden courtyards. The Peace Bridge is worth seeing, too.
If you want to do this trip, you can book a hotel in Derry / Londonderry here. I’ve stayed at the Bishop’s Gate Hotel, and I like the friendly staff, decor, and central location. You can book a room here.
26. Weekend in South Wales
Another of the best places to visit in the UK for a weekend is South Wales. From Cardiff to the Gower Peninsula and Pembrokeshire, there’s no shortage of places to love here.
Cardiff has a jaw-dropping castle, the Gower shows the Welsh coastline at its finest, the national parks have amazing hiking and beautiful waterfalls, and Pembrokeshire has some of the prettiest beaches in Britain.
Worm’s Head and Rhossili Beach are particularly stunning, Castell Coch is a fairy-tale castle, and hiking Pen-y-Fan is a memorable experience.
You can look at my guide to weekend breaks in Wales or my itinerary for this part of Wales if you want more ideas for your trip.
You can travel to South Wales by train or car from London and other parts of the UK. Once here, it’s easiest to get around by car. When you’ve chosen where to base yourself, you can book accommodation here.
27. Weekend in Cambridge
Cambridge is next on my list of the top weekend trips in the country. One of the best university cities in the UK, it’s not only beautiful, but also an important center of British academic life.
If you have 48 hours in Cambridge, you can see the city and experience the best things to do. From touring the colleges to punting on the River Cam and attending evensong at King’s College Chapel, there’s a lot that can keep you entertained.
You can also do my self-guided walking tour of Cambridge if you want to see the big attractions and hidden side streets while you’re visiting. It will give you a good overview of the city.
If you want something a bit different, you can even take the train or drive from Cambridge to Ely during the weekend. This city has a famous cathedral and lots of historic streets to explore.
If this short break sounds good to you, you can book a hotel in Cambridge here. I’ve stayed at the Clayton Hotel and I’m a fan of its contemporary decor and proximity to the train station. You can book a room here.
28. Weekend in Oxford
Cambridge’s rival Oxford is next on my list of weekend getaways in the UK. Not only is it known for academics, but also architecture, markets, and more.
From Christ Church to Magdalen and St John’s, there are a lot of famous college buildings within the university. You can do my self-guided walking tour of Oxford to see the highlights.
But that’s not all. The city is full of atmospheric pubs, museums, and a covered market. Oxford is also popular for its Harry Potter filming locations and Alice in Wonderland connections.
If you want to visit, you can book a hotel in Oxford here. I’ve stayed at the Malmaison Oxford, which is unique in that it’s housed in a former prison. You can book a room here if you want to experience it.
29. Weekend on the Isle of Skye
Scotland’s Isle of Skye is next on my list of places to visit in the UK for a weekend. The largest of the Inner Hebrides, it’s also one of the most famous Scottish islands.
The Isle of Skye is a popular stop on many Scottish Highlands tours. Highlights of the island range from enchanting fairy pools to powerful waterfalls. This is one of the most magical places to visit in the UK.
I’ve been visiting the island since I was a teenager. While it’s beautiful at any time of year, I particularly like the Isle of Skye in winter. The landscapes are breathtaking on the Isle of Skye in January.
If you want to stay here for a night or two, there are lots of options. You can book accommodation here. I’ve stayed at the Sligachan Hotel and I loved my room and the hotel’s location next to the famous Sligachan Old Bridge. You can book a room here.
30. Weekend in Bristol
Bristol is another of the best places to go for 2 days in the UK. This university city is one of my favorite weekend getaways from London.
Out in southwest England, Bristol is known for its independent spirit and riverside attractions. The city is an easy train ride from London and other parts of the UK, and with 2 days in Bristol you can see all the highlights.
Converted 19th-century warehouses shelter restaurants, shops, and galleries, and Harbourside is home to the contemporary M Shed museum, which explores Bristol’s social and industrial heritage.
Clifton is full of elegant crescents, Georgian townhouses, and the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge.
If this place appeals, you can book a hotel in Bristol here. I’ve stayed at the Hotel du Vin and I’m a fan of its spacious rooms and convenient central location. You can book a room here.
31. Weekend in Leicester
Leicester comes next on my list of the top places to visit in the UK for a weekend. This city in the Midlands is has fascinating Richard III connections. The former king died here, and there’s a museum dedicated to him in the city center. He’s buried in Leicester Cathedral, too.
Additionally, Leicester is known for its connections to the Arts and Crafts Movement. The Leicester Museum and Art Gallery houses an important collection, and leading figures like architect-designer Ernest Gimson were born here.
Leicester has impressive historic architecture to admire, too. If you look up as you walk around during your weekend in Leicester, it will impress you. There are even ancient Roman ruins here.
If you want to go on this trip, you can book a hotel in Leicester here. I’ve stayed at St Martins Lodge, which is housed in a renovated Grade II-listed building in the heart of the city. You can book a room here.
32. Weekend in Fife
Just north of Edinburgh, Fife is another of my top picks for places to travel in the UK for a weekend. This Scottish county is home to everything from sweeping coastline to renowned universities and quaint villages.
There are lots of fun places to visit in Fife, including Falkland and Culross, which were Outlander filming locations, Pittenweem, a coastal village, and St Andrews, a historic city with a university, golf courses, and cathedral ruins. Auchterarder and Gleneagles are great, too.
You can get to Fife by train or plane from London and other parts of the UK. I recommend taking the train (or flying to Edinburgh) to get here, then driving while you’re in the area.
If this destination appeals, you can book a hotel in Fife here. My top pick for a place to stay is The Gleneagles Hotel. I loved my visit to this famous property, and you can book a room here.
33. Weekend on the Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is another of the best places to visit for a weekend in the UK. This island off the south coast of England is known for everything from stately homes to sailing.
I visited for the annual regatta during Cowes Week on the Isle of Wight, but it’s a great place to travel at other times of year as well. From Queen Victoria’s home at Osborne House to miles of walking trails, there’s a lot to entertain visitors here.
You can travel to the Isle of Wight from London and other parts of the UK by train and ferry. Once here, it’s easiest to get around with a car. If this trip sounds like your kind of thing, you can book accommodation here.
34. Weekend in Glasgow
Glasgow is another of the top weekend trips to take in the UK. My grandmother grew up here and I’ve been visiting this part of Scotland my whole life.
This spirited city is known for its eclectic mix of historic and contemporary architecture, delicious food scene, and famous nightlife.
Glasgow is also known for friendly locals, lively markets, street art, and world-class museums. It’s an ideal place to go if you love weekend breaks in Scotland.
If visiting Glasgow appeals, you can book a hotel in the city here. I’ve stayed at the Grand Central and I like the convenient location by the train station. You can book a room here.
35. Weekend in Surrey
Surrey is another of the top places to visit for a weekend in the UK. This county is one of the closest places to get to from London, so it’s a good choice if you’re based in the capital.
Depending where you’re starting and ending, it takes around an hour to drive here from the city (and less by train). It’s quick and easy to get out and into the storybook landscapes this part of Britain has to offer.
Once here, there’s a lot you can get up to. From exploring local towns to visiting a lavender field near London and going on country walks, the county offers a variety of activities.
The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is worth visiting, too. It has everything from bucolic landscapes to hillside paths. You can see the highlights on a ramble.
There are great villages to visit, too. Shere is known for being a filming location for the movie The Holiday, and Peaslake is famous for mountain biking.
If this area sounds appealing, you can book a place to stay here. There are a lot of good options in Surrey, including pubs with rooms, converted priories, and charming inns.
36. Weekend in Brecon Beacons National Park (Bannau Brycheiniog)
Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales (officially called Bannau Brycheiniog) is another of my favorite weekend trips in the UK.
I’ve visited many times, and on every trip I’ve gained a greater appreciation of its abundance of hiking trails, waterfalls, and lovely villages.
From trekking to the top of Pen y Fan to attending the annual Abergavenny Food Festival, this place has something for every traveler.
If you’re planning a trip in the cooler months, you can take a look at my blog post about a winter weekend in Wales for ideas.
If you want to do this trip, you can book accommodation here. There’s a range of options when it comes to places to call home-away-from-home for a weekend.
37. Weekend in Hertfordshire
Next on my list of the best places to visit in the UK for a weekend is Hertfordshire. One of the Home Counties that surround the UK capital, it’s a great choice if you’re based in London.
Once you’ve arrived, there’s plenty to do to fill a a weekend. From taking a walk in Tring to visiting some of the best stately homes near London, there’s a lot to entertain visitors.
Seeing the famous Roman ruins and cathedral in St Albans is also a treat. This historic city is home to everything from markets to pubs claiming to be the oldest inns in Britain.
If this trip appeals, you can book a place to stay in Hertfordshire here. There are lots of good hotels and other accommodation options in the county.
38. Weekend in Wiltshire
Wiltshire is another of my favorite places to spend a weekend in the UK. From picturesque villages in the Cotswolds to important cathedral cities and ancient stone circles, there’s a lot to love about this part of Britain.
Castle Combe and Lacock are some of the prettiest villages in Wiltshire. They offer everything from photo opportunities to the chance to see famous filming locations.
Ancient sites like Stonehenge and Avebury are the perfect places for history lovers, and the cathedral in Salisbury is home to an original Magna Carta.
If this sounds like your cup of tea, you can book a place to stay in Wiltshire here. My top pick is The Manor House in Castle Combe. This country house hotel feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. You can book a room here.
39. Weekend in Buckinghamshire
Buckinghamshire is next on my list of places to visit in the UK for a weekend. One of the Home Counties, it’s a great choice if you’re based in London. Some parts of it are so close you can even take the tube.
Once you’ve arrived, there’s plenty to do to fill a weekend. From taking a walk in Marlow to visiting the pretty market town of Amersham, there’s a lot to enjoy in this place.
You can also take in the beauty of the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or visit stately homes like Dorney Court. Dating back to the 15th-century, this early Tudor manor house has changed little over its 600-year lifetime.
If this sounds like somewhere you’d like to visit, you can book a place to stay in Buckinghamshire here. There are lots of good places to stay in the county.
40. Weekend in Southwold
In Suffolk, Southwold is another of my favorite places for UK weekend trips. This coastal town has great beaches, a long pleasure pier, and photo-worthy streets with quaint cottages.
Southwold has a fun mix of waterfront entertainment, shopping, and places to eat and drink. It’s also known for its beach huts, which brighten up the shoreline with their cheerful hues.
There are so many things to do in Southwold that it’s an ideal place to go for a weekend by the seaside.
If you want to go on this trip, you can book accommodation here. From cottages to hotels, there are plenty of options.
41. Weekend in Yorkshire
Yorkshire is another fun place to visit in the UK for a weekend. Up in the north of England, this part of the country is littered with stunning cities, beautiful towns, and dramatic landscapes.
York is the ideal place to visit if you like historic cities. It’s home to some of the most atmospheric streets in Britain, and there’s lots of fun shopping here, too. York Minster makes this place one of the most important cathedral cities in England as well.
The spa town of Harrogate is another of my favorite places to spend a weekend in Yorkshire. It’s full of heritage architecture and leafy parks.
I’ve combined it with a weekend trip from London to Leeds, where I enjoyed the Victorian shopping arcades and seeing a play with friends.
And that’s to say nothing of the the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and coastal gems like Robin Hood’s Bay. I’ve spent weekends hiking in the former and taking in the seaside scenery in the latter. They’re both great 2-day trips if you’re based up north.
If you want to visit this part of the UK, you can book a hotel in Yorkshire here. I’ve stayed at a number of places in the region, and my favorite one is The Lawrance in Harrogate. You can book a room here.
42. Weekend in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
In the north of England, Newcastle-upon-Tyne is another of the best places to visit in the UK for a weekend. As with Manchester and Nottingham, this city is known for its large student population and great nightlife.
But there’s more to it than that. Grey Street was once voted the finest street in Britain by BBC Radio 4 listeners, and museums like BALTIC ensure Newcastle has a rotating mix of art exhibitions to view throughout the year.
The bridges here are worth mentioning, too. They span both the River Tyne and the centuries. Then come Newcastle’s famous pubs, many of which have historic interiors and fun atmospheres.
While in town, you can also see some highlights of the area around the city. Taking a Hadrian’s Wall tour from Newcastle is a great way to get into Britain’s ancient Roman past. Seeing Antony Gormley’s Angel of the North sculpture is a must, too.
If you want to visit, you can book a hotel in Newcastle here. I’ve stayed at Hotel Indigo, and I like its central location. You can book a room here.
43. Weekend in Dumfries and Galloway
In southern Scotland, Dumfries and Galloway is an underrated place to spend a weekend in the UK. This area has everything from historic castles to dramatic coastline and towns full of bookshops.
A weekend will allow you to travel to some of the best places to visit in Dumfries and Galloway. These include destinations with Robert Burns connections, old fortresses, and the wedding haven of Gretna Green.
If you want to, you can time your visit to coincide with annual events like the Kirkcudbright Art and Crafts Trail and the Wigtown Book Festival.
If this sounds good, you can book accommodation in Dumfries and Galloway here. I’ve stayed in a number of places here, and my favorite is Nithbank Country Estate. I love the pretty suites and bucolic setting on the river. You can book a room here.
44. Weekend in Liverpool
Liverpool is another city that deserves a weekend getaway in the UK. A historic maritime hub where the River Mersey meets the Irish Sea, this place has reinvented itself over the years.
Liverpool is one of the best cities in Britain for cultural heritage and world-class attractions. It has impressive museums like Tate Liverpool, which sits in the historic-meets-contemporary Albert Dock area.
Bars like The Cavern Club, the birthplace of The Beatles, are great for live music, too. It’s a must for anyone who loves the famous band.
The Anglican cathedral here is the largest cathedral in Britain. It has the world’s highest Gothic arches and the world’s largest organ, too. The Catholic cathedral is the only circular cathedral in Europe as well.
If this sounds like your kind of city, you can book a place to stay in Liverpool here. There are lots of great options for every taste and style.
45. Weekend in Kent
Next on my list of the best places to visit in the UK for a weekend is Kent. This county in England’s southeast is a great one if you’re based in London. It’s quick and easy to get to by train.
From seaside Whitstable to Dickens’ Rochester, underrated Sevenoaks, hipster Margate, historic Deal, waterfront Broadstairs, harborside Ramsgate, white-cliffed Folkestone, castle-topped Dover, and cathedral-graced Canterbury, there’s no shortage of places to visit in Kent.
You can even go wine, cider, and beer tasting in Kent. It’s a fun way to explore the county through some of the best English drinks. There are lots of great vineyards near London here, and you can even do a whole trip focused on wine tasting.
If this trip sounds good to you, you can book a hotel in Kent here. I’ve stayed at The Bay Tree in Broadstairs, The Relish in Folkestone, and The Sun Inn in Faversham, and I recommend them.
46. Weekend in Eastbourne
On the south coast in East Sussex, Eastbourne is another fun weekend trip in the UK. If you’re a fan of the British seaside, there are great beaches, a historic pleasure pier to discover, and live music right on the waterfront.
A weekend in Eastbourne is enough time to discover this coastal resort town and the surrounding area at a relaxed pace.
Spots like Beachy Head and its famous lighthouse are worth the short drive or bus ride from Eastbourne. And that’s to say nothing of the chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters, which are ideal for scenic walks.
If this part of Britain appeals, you can book a hotel in Eastbourne here. I’ve stayed at The Lansdowne Hotel, and it has a perfect seafront location. You can book a room here.
47. Weekend in Salcombe
In Devon, Salcombe is a fun place to visit in the UK for a weekend. With stunning scenery, unique rock formations, and secluded coastal coves, this seaside destination is the ideal place to escape to.
Salcombe has everything from walking trails to pretty streets. North Sands beach is home to the famous Winking Prawn restaurant and a historic castle steeped in English Civil War history.
If you like the water, you can take a ferry ride to South Sands beach or go sailing in Salcombe.
There’s plenty to do in town, too. Shops and boutiques line the high street, and hidden stairways lead up and down the hills. The local seafood here is delicious, too.
If you want to go on this trip, you can book a hotel in Salcombe here. I’ve stayed at South Sands Hotel and I’m a fan of the beach-themed rooms and views over the water. You can book a room here.
48. Weekend in the Wye Valley
Straddling the border of England and Wales, the Wye Valley is another of my favorite places to visit in the UK for a weekend. The first organized tour in Britain took place here, and it led to the area being known as the birthplace of British tourism.
This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is bursting with pretty towns and bucolic countryside. From shopping for antiques in the market town of Ross-on-Wye to taking in the ruins of Tintern Abbey in Monmouthshire, there’s a lot to do and see here.
If you like the outdoors, Symonds Yat Rock is a good place to walk around and take in the panoramas over the River Wye. There are trails you can follow through the Forest of Dean from Symonds Yat, too.
If this sounds good to you, you can book accommodation in the Wye Valley here. There are lots of options for places to stay in the area.
49. Weekend on the Isle of Arran
Next on my list of weekend getaways in the UK is the Isle of Arran. The largest island in the Firth of Clyde, this place is often referred to as Scotland in Miniature.
That’s because you can find everything Scotland has to offer here. From rugged coastline to medieval castles and whiskey distilleries making the most famous of Scottish drinks, this island has something for everyone.
The Isle of Arran is also home to waterfalls hidden down wooded paths, ancient stone circles with an aura of mystery, and enough sheep to keep one on cute overload the whole weekend.
My Glaswegian grandmother spent her summers on the Isle of Arran when she was a child. When I visited, I could see why she loved it. I hope you’ll feel the same if you get a chance to travel here yourself.
If this sounds like your cup of tea, you can book a place to stay on the Isle of Arran here. There are lots of good options for accommodation.
50. Weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon
A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon is another great getaway in the UK. Located in Warwickshire, this famous town is known for its Shakespeare connections.
Stratford is full of houses The Bard and his family lived in, theaters showing his plays, and historic streets and heritage pubs for drinking and dining.
Spending 2 days in Stratford-upon-Avon will allow you sufficient time to visit all the Shakespeare houses, see a play one evening, and explore the streets and riverfront area.
If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Stratford here. There are plenty of places to stay in and around the town.
51. Weekend in London
I couldn’t write a blog post about the best places to visit in the UK for a weekend without including London. It’s the capital, after all, and it’s well worth a visit.
London has world-class everything. Whatever your passions or interests are, you’ll find something to discover, explore, and love about this city. From museums to music, performances to parks, London has something for everyone.
Spending 2 days in London is a great way to take in landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, visit big attractions like the London Eye, or explore local neighborhoods if you’ve been here before.
If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in London here. I’ve also written about the best places to stay in London and quirky hotels in London if you want specific recommendations.
Map of Weekend Trips in the UK
As promised, I’ve created an interactive map of all the places I mentioned in this blog post. You can see it here. If you click on the blue pins, you can find more information about each destination. I hope it helps you plan your perfect getaway!
Best Places to Visit in the UK for a Weekend
I hope you’ve liked my list of the best places to visit in the UK for a weekend, and that it’s helped you discover new places to travel throughout the country. There are so many amazing destinations here that you could keep busy for a lifetime. Happy travels!
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