We're all desperately planning our next trips abroad, but how well do we actually know our own green isles? With this year's vacay options likely to be limited to England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, we're setting our sights a little closer to home and thinking outside the box when it comes to staycation picks *cough* Cornwall. From seaside stunners to Northern charmers, we've searched far and wide to bring you the UK's top 10 pretty cities to visit in 2021.
Bristol
It's not just the iconic suspension bridge that has earned Bristol a name as one of the UK's most beautiful cities. First-timers simply need to wander around the cobbled streets and pop into a few of the independent shops, pubs and restaurants - here's looking at you Riverstation - to fall in love with the enchanting spot. Banksy fanatics can also see a number of the famous resident's murals for free dotted around the area, stopping off at The Old Fish Market on their way.
Bristol's a haven for art lovers and indie shoppers.
Edinburgh
A popular choice for weekend getaways at any time of the year, Edinburgh is easily one of the best cities to visit in the UK for couples. Grab a steaming coffee and brunch at The Refinery before spending the day pottering around the cobbled streets and checking out the impressive castle. While you're there, be sure to swing by Cold Town House for pizza with one hell of a view and cocktail bar The Raging Bull to try out its wide variety of signature espresso martinis - think gingerbread and banoffee pie-flavoured tipples.
With vistas like this, what's not to love?
Liverpool
It may be famous for being the home of The Beatles, but Liverpool is often overlooked when it comes to UK staycations. A crying shame if you ask us. Along with a beautiful waterfront and historic landmarks, the city also houses some of the most eye-catching venues. You can expect everything from rooftop stunners such as The Red Door and Goodness Gracious providing snap-worthy vistas to restaurants like The Florist that use actual trees as decoration.
Historical buildings and gorgeous bars bag Liverpool a spot on our list of incredible places in England.
Cardiff
The Welsh capital may be small in size, but what's there makes it a definite contender for the best UK holiday destinations for couples. Once you've toured Cardiff Castle and the Victorian arcades, why not hit up some of the local haunts and get a proper feel for the city? A little birdy tells us that glamorous cocktail haunt The Dead Canary is a popular weekend spot, while Gin & Bake is a quirky bar, restaurant, bakery and events space all in one. It's also got a busy social calendar, with seasonal pop-ups like Street Food Social making this one spot that's not to be missed.
A great walkable city with rolling hills and a seaside; this Welsh beauty is perfect for a staycation.
Leeds
With a thriving social scene and an eclectic mix of historical and contemporary architecture, Leeds is a great choice for those of you searching for fun and cheap places to visit in the UK. Live like the locals and spend an afternoon or evening at The Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen, where you'll find three floors of craft beer and street food, along with a rooftop garden and events space. If you're willing to splurge a little, pay Ibérica a visit for an unforgettable tapas feast, or chomp on Japanese fare while gazing across the skyline at Issho.
Leeds is serving you a winning combo of fun and affordable.
London
Boasting some of the world's finest museums, art galleries and landmarks, it should come as no surprise that London makes our list of the most beautiful cities in the UK. But where to begin? Whether you fancy taking in some of the capital's most iconic sites from Sky Garden's gorgeous rooftop bar, want to dive into a bubbly ball pit at Ballie Ballerson or you're looking to immersive yourself into the Wild West at Moonshine Saloon - it doesn't disappoint - we've got just the thing.
From sky-high sips to basement bars, London has got something for everyone.
Brighton
One of the most magical places to visit in the UK, Brighton has rightfully gained a name for its vibrant streets, colourful shops and vast stretch of seemingly endless beach. When you're not getting your fill of quirky trinkets in The Lanes or traipsing around the Royal Pavilion? Sip on some locally-brewed craft beer at The North Laine Pub and Brewery or go to the pier for a seaside meal at Palm Court Restaurant.
Sea views and unconventional bars propel Brighton into the top UK holiday destinations for 2021.
Manchester
Searching for places to visit in England other than London? Once an industrial heavyweight, now a cool and thriving metropolis, Manchester is up there for Instagram-worthy cities in England. It also has some of the best and most varied nightlife options around. For those of you after a knockout dinner in a stylish setting, Grand Pacific is a must. However, if you're after something a little more intimate, hit up secret bar ONE EIGHT SIX - that is, if you can find it.
A fun choice with a mega range of things to do, Manchester will have you coming back for more.
Belfast
Just a hop across the Irish Sea, Belfast is a bustling city packed with character and award-winning restaurants. See for yourself with a trip to The Muddler's Club, where you'll be treated to some of the freshest and finest dishes around. But that's not all. Northern Ireland's capital is famed for its traditional pubs - the perfect pit stops during your trips to the grand City Hall and Titanic museum, which is located on the exact spot the fated ship was built.
Instagrammable travel destinations? This one's delivering photogenic views and food.
Glasgow
Wondering where to travel in 2021? Home to the Scottish Opera, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, lush botanical gardens and a goldmine of vintage shops, Glasgow is a cultural hub loaded with things to do. When you're not tucking into crispy wings at Absurd Bird or sinking some pints at Shilling Brewing Co? Discover some of its lesser-known localities with one of these walks, finishing, of course, at a pub. 'Cus all the best walks do.
Explore this diverse and extensive Scottish city.
Looking for more holiday inspiration? Check out our pick of romantic staycations, here.
