10 Best Places to Visit in the UK, From Crowd Favorites to Hidden Gems

February 27, 2026 | 02:05 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The best places to visit in the UK are filled with captivating Renaissance belongings, diverse landscapes, and a treasure trove of historic landmarks, among others. It’s no surprise that the country is consistently hailed as one of the sought-after travel destinations for all sorts of travelers. 

Drawing insights from Time Out, Visit Britain, and various sources, the entries on this list vary in location and distinct traits, with Stirling and Edinburgh standing out as the top contenders picked by seasoned travelers. 

List of 10 Best Places to Visit in the UK 

1. Stirling 

For travelers drawn to history with a dramatic natural backdrop, Stirling delivers in spades. Home to landmarks like Stirling Castle and the National Wallace Monument, with easy access to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, the city will see Stirling Distillery release its first-ever whisky in late 2026. Celebrations will peak in May with a Culture Night of music, dance, and comedy at Stirling Castle, marking the finale of its 900th anniversary festivities.

2. Edinburgh 

Famously celebrated for its storybook setting and cultural energy, Edinburgh is often noted among the best places to visit in the UK. Anchored by Edinburgh Castle and crowned by the extinct volcano Arthur's Seat, the Scottish capital pairs historic landmarks with a wave of exciting new openings across the city. For shopping and bites, explore Stockbridge’s independents like Lannan Bakery and atla, or head to the St James Centre, set to become the UK’s first Westfield outside London in 2026.

3. Stockport 

Once overlooked, Stockport is now buzzing with creative energy and a fiercely independent spirit. Food plays a leading role in the revival, with Michelin-starred Where The Light Gets In drawing diners to its loft-style setting, while Cumbrian brewery Fell Brewery has added a stylish neighbourhood bar to the mix. Thanks to the genuine cultural momentum of record shops, indie cafes, and more, this Manchester satellite town has earned its tongue-in-cheek reputation as “the new Berlin".

4. Caithness 

For stargazers, Caithness is often cited among the best places to visit in the UK. The Northern Lights sighting at the top of mainland Scotland has been stellar, offering easy access and vast views, dark skies free from light pollution. Beyond the aurora, the region is stunning, with dramatic coastal cliffs and sweeping peatlands in the Flow Country.

5. Birmingham 

It’s easy to think of Birmingham as a city that thrives on reinvention, and nowhere captures that spirit quite like Digbeth. Recently dubbed one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods by Time Out, the area pairs grassroots creativity with cultural buzz, from gigs at The Night Owl to films at The Mockingbird Cinema. It’s also set to gain a new BBC headquarters, strengthening its status as one of the city’s key creative hubs.

6. Derby 

As the gateway to the Peak District, Derby has traditionally been a base for exploring rolling hills and postcard-perfect villages like Ashford-in-the-Water, Bakewell, and Buxton. Now, the Midlands city is stepping into the spotlight in its own right, completed by a wave of new openings and major events lined up for 2026. With a level-up nightlife promise, Derby is evidently one of the best places to visit in the UK. 

7. Cirencester 

When it comes to travel destinations, Cirencester shows that the Cotswolds have more to offer than just the usual hotspots. As the region’s largest town and unofficial capital, Cirencester is packed with cozy pubs, heritage architecture, and independent shops. Even better, its location makes an ideal base for exploring nearby towns like Stroud, Tetbury, and Lechlade.

8. Anglesey 

Like Wales in miniature, Anglesey is small in size but rich in culture, history, and sweeping scenery. Designated a National Landscape, Anglesey captivates with the romance of Llanddwyn Island, abundant birdlife at Dingle Nature Reserve, and the golden shores of Benllech Beach. Its food scene is just as memorable, from Michelin-starred Sosban & The Old Butchers to relaxed dining at The Tavern on the Bay and The Stores. 

9. Blackpool 

Among the best places to visit in the UK, Blackpool stands out for its classic seaside energy and ever-evolving attractions. The town’s cultural revival also includes the UK’s first circus museum and a hotel recently crowned the best in Europe. 

10. Portmeirion 

As trends lean toward all things whimsical in 2026, few UK destinations embrace fantasy quite like Portmeirion. Every corner of the town reveals a surprise. Visit in May for the delightfully eccentric Steampunk Weekend, complete with teapot racing and a peacock parade.

From dramatic Highland landscapes to creative city quarters and whimsical coastal villages, these destinations prove why they’re considered the best places to visit in the UK in 2026. For even more seasonal travel inspiration, be sure to read our guide to the best places to visit in spring and start planning your next getaway.

Read: Is Sustainable Travel Possible in Times of Mass Tourism?

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News

UK Chip Giant Arm to Train 15,000 Indonesian Engineers

2 hari lalu

UK Ex-Ambassador Mandelson Released on Bail in Epstein Probe

3 hari lalu

After Meeting Trump, Prabowo Heads to UK for Strategic Talks

3 hari lalu

British Police Releases Ex-Prince Andrew After Arrest Over Epstein Case

5 hari lalu

UK Moves to Fully Digital e-Visa System by February 2026

6 hari lalu

UK Refuses US Request to Use Its Bases for Iran Attack Plans

6 hari lalu

ASEAN and UK Launch Nature-Based Climate Mitigation Portfolio

11 hari lalu

UK Decision to Ban Palestine Action Unlawful, Court Rules

13 hari lalu

2025 Corruption Index Flags Drops in Western Nations

16 hari lalu

UK King 'Concerned' by Andrew's Actions Amid Epstein Fallout

17 hari lalu