The UK is blessed with some of the most exciting and vibrant cities in Europe. If you’re planning a weekend away, city breaks offer golden opportunities to visit popular attractions, sample local nightlife and cuisine, shop up a storm and embrace cultural adventures. Whether you’re a fan of fine dining, history or music, there’s a perfect destination for you. Here are some top city break picks to suit every traveller.
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For history buffs
If you or your kids are into history, Chester is a brilliant location for a family-friendly break. A charming walled city nestled in the North West close to the Welsh border, Chester has a rich heritage. A gentle stroll around this small but beautiful city will take you from the lively centre, bursting with independent shops and cute cafés, down to the picturesque banks of the River Dee. En route, you’ll pass the magnificent cathedral, the ancient Roman walls, the amphitheatre and the famous Eastgate Clock. You can take walking tours guided by Roman soldiers, catch a river cruise or meander at your leisure.
Chester is packed with historical monuments, landmarks and museums, but it’s also a fantastic destination for animal lovers. Chester Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the country, and it’s not hard to see why. You can easily spend all day here, with hundreds of different species on view as well as plenty of playgrounds and educational exhibits to explore.
For foodies
If you’re looking for a spot to treat your taste buds or try different types of cuisine, London is tough to beat. A sprawling, buzzing city, it caters to everyone. A trip to the capital affords you access to all kinds of restaurants, from Michelin-starred fine dining establishments and gastro pubs to casual cafés and immersive gastronomy experiences. With so much choice available, it can be difficult to know where to start.
Online guides and foodie social media accounts are great resources, but you can also use search engines and reviews. If you have a specific cuisine in mind, like South American, Mediterranean or Middle-Eastern, you can narrow options using keywords and filters. Type Peruvian restaurant in London into Google and you’ll find links, images and customer ratings. Alternatively, you can browse guidebooks, blogs or ask others for recommendations.
Being a food-lover in London isn’t just about trying different restaurants and dishes. You can also take advantage of unique experiences. Examples include cooking classes, afternoon tea on a traditional Routemaster bus and brunch at the top of a skyscraper.
For the best of both worlds
Do you love the idea of a city break, but also crave downtime and relaxation? If so, Brighton is an excellent choice. A bustling city by the sea, it offers the best of both worlds. One day, you can tour attractions, visit boutiques and enjoy café culture. The next, you can lie on the beach basking in the sunshine or enjoy a gentle walk along the promenade watching the waves roll in. Brighton is a hive of activity, with plenty going on to suit all ages. In the warmer months, seafront bars, play areas and al fresco dining spots come alive. The pier is home to an impressive range of rides and stalls and there’s a thriving music and arts scene.
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If you’re thinking about booking a weekend away, city breaks are a fabulous option. Whether you’re planning a romantic sojourn or a family-friendly trip, the UK has some fantastic destinations. Why not consider these options next time you fancy a mini break?
