City breaks and holidays
From Roman remains to brand new architectural wonders, there are so many amazing sights and cities to visit in England. Come and experience the eclectic mix of history by wandering spa towns like Bath, where you can take in the air and waters that have been the draw of visitors for centuries, or the National Marine Aquarium in Portsmouth – the UK’s largest aquarium that is home to animals from around the world.
Culture is everywhere; art galleries, museums, and festivals are often free and open on weekends, allowing for an injection of inspiration to your city break. Once you’ve taken in places like the Old Royal Naval College, or the five military museums of Winchester, you can move on to the cafes and restaurants full of character and delicious local dishes. There’s always something going on in English cities.
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Rainy Day Activities: Step back in time at York Castle Museum
Travel back in time on a rainy day at this trend-setting museum, which transports visitors back through 300 years of history.
Location: York, North Yorkshire
Discover the home of Banksy on a Bristol Street Art Tour
Street art tours are a ‘must do’ cultural experience in the city, thanks to Bristol-born Banksy and many other famous artists
Location: Bristol
Rainy Day Activities: Discover military history at The Royal Armouries
Britain’s national museum of arms and armour is home to a fascinating and unique collection, including the only existing suit of armour built for an elephant.
Location: Leeds, West Yorkshire
Follow art trails around NewcastleGateshead
Throughout NewcastleGateshead you will discover public art in the most surprising of places from figurative sculptures to conceptual work.
Location: Newcastle, Tyne and Wear
Experience panoramic views on Grey’s Monument
Experience panoramic views and close encounters with a former Prime Minister, followed by a well-earned cup of Earl Grey tea.
Location: Newcastle, Tyne and Wear
A shopping weekend in Birmingham
Enjoy great shopping and cutting edge art on a break to this buzzing city.
Location: Birmingham, West Midlands
Take your pick from Liverpool’s rich cultural gems
Liverpool is a thriving capital of culture with museums and galleries for every taste, many of which are free to explore. Dip in and emerge inspired.
Location: Liverpool, Merseyside
Paint the town red with a London hotel and theatre break
Take in the bright lights of London’s prestigious West End and its many fantastic musicals on a short break in the capital.
Location: London
December events: Start off your Christmas season in Chester
Visit Santa, sip on mulled wine and spend the weekend celebrating all things festive in the beautiful city of Chester.
Location: Chester, Cheshire
Shop and sup in style in Nottingham's hippest neighbourhood
Base your city break in Nottingham’s Creative Quarter, buzzing with bars and restaurants, vintage shopping, quirky retailers and cultural events.
Location: Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Explore the historic and lively city of Lancaster
Uncover Lancaster’s ancient and haunting history at its hilltop castle and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in one of England’s Heritage Cities.
Location: Lancaster, Lancashire
Visit world-renowned artefacts on a budget break in Birmingham
Being on a budget break in Birmingham isn't a problem at all as there’s so much to see and do for free.
Location: Birmingham, West Midlands
Enjoy a Brighton budget break with free attractions and more
It’s easy to enjoy a cheap weekend break in Brighton and Hove, with cheap hostel accommodation and plenty of low cost museums and art galleries.
Location: Brighton & Hove, East Sussex
Explore the nooks and crannies of Norwich’s artistic spaces
Norwich is full of cultural activities, with many arts venues found in surprising places, some amongst its most beautiful gardens and public spaces.
Location: Norwich, Norfolk
Birmingham's Bullring, books and boutiques
Enjoy contemporary architectural and cultural gems as well as its shopping and nightlife.
Location: Birmingham, West Midlands
November events: Eyes on the sky for Light Up Lancaster
See the skies over Lancaster light up this autumn at the North’s biggest firework display.
Location: Lancaster, Lancashire
Trace the lives of The Beatles in their home city
Buzzing Liverpool is renowned for its music scene. Discover how its four most famous sons still set the beat for a fab visit to the city.
Location: Liverpool, Merseyside
Take a tour of Liverpool’s architectural marvels
See this handsome, historic city with fresh eyes; join an expert-led RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) tour of its loveliest buildings.
Location: Liverpool, Merseyside
Explore Liverpool’s buzzing waterfront
Be entertained, amused, informed, inspired – and well fed – in one of the city’s most lively and interesting quarters.
Location: Liverpool, Merseyside
Admire nature at the University of Bristol Botanic Gardens
As well as being an key part of the University teaching, the Botanic Gardens welcome visitors and feature flora and fauna unique to the Bristol area.
Location: Bristol