15 Best UK City Breaks to Take in 2023

Liverpool

The UK’s music city, Liverpool continues to thrive as a heartland for the arts. The Beatles hailed from here, a legacy that hallmarks like The Cavern Club and Beatles Story strive to ensure is never forgotten. With that being said, the city is brimming with all manner of brilliant experiences beyond Beatlemania, ranging from world-famous sport venues to delicious food and drink spots. For more inspiration, check out our guide for Things to Do in Liverpool. 

Where to Stay in Liverpool

A serene spa and a championship golf course are the main draws at the 4* Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa, perched between the animated city of Liverpool and sweeping sandy beaches. Spend the night in a classic room with a luxury en-suite bathroom, air conditioning and a Plasma TV as well as breakfast in the morning. 

London

We couldn’t talk about the best UK city breaks without mentioning London. The world-famous capital is known for its jaw-dropping architecture, plethora of adventures to be had and diverse culture. While the city centre is constantly buzzing with activity, there’s a lot of areas with hidden gems for those willing to head off the beaten track. Check out our guide, where we’ve broken London into different sections, so you can go directly to the one you’re most interested in. 

Where to Stay in London

When it comes to accommodation in London, one thing you won’t be stuck on is options. We’re particular fans of La Suite West, nestled on the corner of the splendid Hyde Park. With an elegant minimalistic style drawn from neighbouring Kensington, your base for the night will be a comfortable Superior Double room, where you can retire after all the city’s exploring.

Chester

If you’re looking for UK city breaks up north, you should definitely set your sights on the often overlooked Chester. Founded as a Roman fortress, the Chester city walls are over 2,000 years old and is the only city in the UK where you can walk full circuit. Beyond the walls, Chester ensures there’s something for everyone, from afternoon teas to river cruises and beyond. 

Where to Stay in Chester

Behind a 17th century façade in the city centre, the Neoclassical 4* Oddfellows Hotel is just a stone’s throw from the River Dee. The boutique hotel boasts a Mediterranean restaurant, a garden bar with fire pits, a stylish cocktail bar, and a rooftop terrace. A bespoke themed room, complete with stylish and eclectic décor, will ensure you get a restful night’s sleep. 

Nottingham

For a city break that combines culture, history, art and fine dining, you’ll want to set your sights on Nottingham. Although it’s the city’s connections to Robin Hood that made it a household name, it’s the wide span of experiences to be had that keep people coming back for more. With everything from spa days to adrenaline-fuelled adventures, there’s a vast array of things to do in Nottingham. 

Where to Stay in Nottingham

Located just 7 minutes’ walk from the Old Market Square, the luxurious Lace Market Hotel takes its name from its prime location in the heart of the city’s former industrial quarter. Head out to explore Nottingham’s vibrant streets, make use of the hotel’s gym facilities, or just relax in your sophisticated Double or Deluxe room. 

Manchester

Having previously powered Britain’s Industrial Revolution, Manchester spent the second half of the 20th century redefining itself as a cultural capital. As a result, it’s probably one of the most exciting city breaks in the UK. The centre boasts an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, shops and galleries, while heading further afield to Greater Manchester equates to quaint markets, enchanting waterways and beautiful green spaces. 

Where to Stay In Manchester

On Manchester’s vibrant Canal Street in the heart of the city’s Gay Village, the luxurious Velvet Hotel offers an unashamedly ostentatious staycation. The opulent lounge bar is a great place to start a night out and your Velvet King room offers 200 sq ft of wonderful decadence and amenities to the highest of standards. 

Oxford

The city of dreaming spires, it doesn’t get more quintessentially British than Oxford. Home to a world-famous university, the city exudes English charm with picturesque views, providing the idyllic backdrop for a mini-break. There’s plenty of ventures out there to help you make the most of your time here, whether your passions lie in food, adventure, history or beyond. 

Where to Stay in Oxford

To place yourselves in the heart of the city’s action, you really can’t go wrong with the Grade II listed Vanbrugh House Hotel. With each characterful room creatively named after a historical character or significant location related to Oxford, the location is hard to beat – just minutes by foot from top colleges and museums. Following a restful night’s sleep, a continental breakfast, crafted using the finest local produce, will be served to your room. 

Edinburgh

Scotland’s buzzing capital Edinburgh is an effortless fusion of the mediaeval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town. One of the most beautiful cities in the UK, the cobblestoned streets, stunning architecture and historic charm have established it as a firm-favourite holiday destination for many. While the 13th century castle spearheads the city’s rich history, the vast array of activities ensure its visitors never run out of things to do. 

Where to Stay in Edinburgh

Okay so this one’s a little bit out of the city itself but one glance at the 18th century baronial style manor house and you’ll fall instantly in love. Reclining in 1000 acres of parkland, a night at the Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club involves a selection of world-class facilities including a pool, sauna and steam room. Not to mention relaxation is enhanced by the full-set of amenities in your traditionally elegant Classic Double room. 

Bath

Marvellous Georgian architecture, historical discoveries on almost every corner and an abbey that serves as the cornerstone of the city’s culture - we could only be talking about the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bath. Famous for its natural hot springs, this charming city retains its allure with so many modern attractions for every persuasion. If you want to delve deeper into the city, read our guide of things to do in Bath. 

Where to Stay in Bath

Previously the County Hotel, you’ll be well-placed staying at The Bird, nestled just a short saunter from Bath’s main attractions. Meticulously designed, each room is inherently a work of art with bold colours and statement artwork. Not to mention the piece de resistance is an outdoor terrace with spectacular views overlooking Bath Abbey and Bath recreation ground.

Brighton

With its picture-perfect beach, thriving art scene and expansive foodie culture, Brighton is an ever-on-trend destination for a UK city break. Marvel at the grand architecture, shop at the many quirky boutiques and experience everything Britain’s best loved seaside city has to offer. Get your Brighton itinerary up to scratch with our guide on Things to Do in Brighton, packed full of great ideas for every budget. 

Where to Stay in Brighton

Die-hard eccentrics, Hotel Pelirocco was quite literally made for you. Packed with character, the Pelirocco has a well-established reputation as England’s most rock ‘n’ roll hotel. Far from ordinary, you’ll have your pick of a Standard Double or Twin Room, each one individually themed to tickle every taste bud. And its prime location in Regency Square only helps its case. 

Newcastle

There’s a common misconception that Newcastle’s excitement ends at their notorious nightlife but there’s much more to ‘The Toon’ than one might expect. On the rise since the Millenium for urban escapism, the friendly locals, Georgian architecture and the longest single-span bridge ensure a trip to the Northern city is well worth it. 

Where to Stay in Newcastle

Check in for the night at the luxury Vermont Hotel, which combines 1930s grandeur with contemporary comforts. Taking pride of place in Newcastle city centre, the mediaeval castle is your neighbour and it’s a five minute walk from the riverbank. Rooms are comfortable and cosy, and dining’s covered too in the hotel’s upscale The Mavern Restaurant. 

Dublin

Ireland has much to offer pleasure seekers and while most make a beeline for Belfast, Dublin is rapidly moving up in the popularity ranks. Bursting with culture, the city is known for its welcoming people and inviting atmosphere with Temple Bar in particular proving to be a must-visit venue. The city itself also has some fantastic hidden gems for those willing to head off the beaten track.

Where to Stay in Dublin

Luxury, privacy and with standards of hospitality that are second to none, the 4* Aberdeen Lodge exudes charm from its tucked away location surrounded by acres of walled private gardens and the beautiful Dublin countryside. Within a short drive are picturesque harbours, beaches, a variety of monuments, castles, stately homes and much more. 

York

Perched between London and Edinburgh, York has definitely earned itself a place as one of the best city breaks in the UK. Few cities capture as much of England’s history as York - the ancient walls, the architecture and museums all showcase the country’s past. History covered, step back into the present day and you’ll find superb dining options, countless shops and more to explore. If you’re in need of some extra inspiration, we recommend checking out our guide for Things to Do in York.

Where to Stay in York

Exuding a youthful vibe, Hotel Indigo York is just a stone’s throw from the city centre but a healthy distance away from the tourist hordes. With a fun and playful take on the city’s cocoa history, the hotel’s décor is very much chocolatey-brown hues. Each room comes equipped with a full set of amenities including a SPA-inspired bathroom with a rainfall shower and complimentary chocolates for those sweet cravings.

Birmingham

How about a city break in Birmingham? There’s plenty to discover in this West Midlands town, from major tourist sites like The Hippodrome and Colmore Row, to the historical Jewellery Quarter. Shoppers can immerse themselves in the iconic Bull Ring shopping centre, while foodies can indulge to their heart’s content at one of the many options for bars and restaurants across the city.

Where to Stay in Birmingham

If you want to stay just a stone’s throw from the city’s main attractions, you’ll want to set your sights on the cosy Birmingham Strathallan Hotel, Signature Collection By Best Western. Unwind in a comfy standard bedroom, take advantage of the myriad of wellness facilities, and check out the vast array of nearby attractions including SEA LIFE, Birmingham Cathedral and more.

Cambridge

Cambridge is abound with dreamy university spires, cloisters and cobblestone streets, all of them lined by the city’s charming canal which people punt. From walkways and an intricate cycle path network to galleries and sculpture trails, there really is something for everyone when it comes to entertainment in this city. Cast your eyes away from the world-famous university and you’ll find a myriad of brilliant adventures to embark on. 

Where to Stay in Cambridge

Admittedly this hotel isn’t really in Cambridge but just a short train ride away in historic Ely lies the upscale Poets House Hotel & Restaurant. Uniquely stylish, the hotel commands spectacular views of the magnificent cathedral and the effortless fusion of the building’s original charm and innovative interiors creates an unrivalled partnership between luxury and comfort. A house double bedroom includes a free-standing copper bath, rainfall shower, flat-screen TV and plenty more. 

Lincoln

Wrongly unsung, Lincoln joins the assortment of UK cities revelling in their historical charm. Home to a cathedral once ranked tallest in the world, Lincoln makes for a magical staycation. The castle and Magna Carta copy keep history buffs content, while the throng of boutique and foodie stops keep people coming back for more. 

Where to Stay in Lincoln

While it is part of the Best Western family chain, the Lincoln Hotel has been lovingly modified to ensure it’s rich with local charm. Just a short walk from the stunning Lincoln Cathedral, you’ll find the best of the city on your doorstep enabling you to explore all the mediaeval splendour of this historic city. Equally your beautifully restored Superior or Deluxe accommodation has everything you need covered too. 

Summary

Hopefully by now we’ve inspired you to find your next city hotel break. But the good news is this is just a handful of the incredible cities, ready and waiting to host your getaway - check out our full range of short breaks for yet more idyllic destinations.