england places to visit in summer

13 BEST Things to do in England in Summer

Looking for the best things to do in england in summer from glastonbury to visiting beautiful beaches, this is all about summer holidays in england.

Whether you’re looking for fun in the sun, cultural events, or amazing outdoor excursions, England in Summer has it all.

With some of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of the United Kingdom like Newquay , and awesome festivals happening throughout the summer months, such as Glastonbury and Notting Hill Carnival, there’s a lot to love about this time of year.

Personally, I love to get outside and explore during summer. The trails in the national parks might be a bit busier, but the weather conditions are perfect to appreciate all that English natural beauty. And everything is so bright and green!

From the Peak District to the Jurassic Coast to just wandering around cities that I love in beautiful conditions, it’s the ideal time to visit England and see this country in all its glory.

As there are so many summer activities in England to enjoy, I’ve narrowed down my favourites to help shape your next itinerary. Hopefully this blog post will help plan your summer holidays in England!

And if there’s anything I’ve missed, just ask me in the questions below and hopefully I can hep!

England summer weather 

On average, the temperatures in England in summer are anywhere between 15 to 25°C (59° – 77°F). In recent years, we’ve seen a number of heatwaves hitting the mid-30s, but it’s definitely not the norm, and as a nation I’m not sure we’re prepared for those tropical heights!

Famously, UK weather is unreliable. With this in mind, you might find a few showers during the summer months, but nothing too dramatical. Normally, it’s warm, dry, and very pleasant. 

That being said, I would recommend that you bring a decent jacket, especially if you’re hitting the trails. The weather can turn in a moment and you don’t want to be caught out!

Best things to do in England in summer

Check out the beach at newquay.

In my mind, summer in England means just one thing: going to the beach. Fistral Beach at Newquay in Cornwall is one of the best beaches in the country and is super popular. 

The town itself is very much a surf town, with great bars and restaurants full of fresh seafood. Spend your days out on Blue Flag beaches before hitting up the nightlife. 

You can read more about what to do here in our Cornwall travel guide .

Embrace music and culture at Glastonbury

Is there a more iconic music festival in the world than Glastonbury ? Held in the south west of England in June, Glastonbury is the most sought-after festival ticket in the world. 

With past headliners including the Rolling Stones, Beyonce, Arctic Monkeys and Elton John, and the legend slot including Diana Ross, Dolly Parton, Lionel Richie, and more, it’s a summer event that’s on a lot of bucket lists. 

Honestly, I can’t rave about this festival enough. It is definitely one of my happy places that’s for sure.

Explore the vineyards of the South East

Now, English wine might not be super famous yet, but I really think it’s coming up fast. In the south east of England, especially in Sussex and Kent, you’ll find a ton of great vineyards .

Predominantly specialising in white and sparkling wines, it’s the most refreshing way to enjoy England in summer. Head to a tasting, take a tour of the vineyard, and grab a few bottles for the road.

Dive into history at Alnwick Castle

England has plenty of beautiful castles, but Alnwick Castle in the north east is stunning. With summer activities that include longbow demonstrations and opportunities to use crossbows, it’s a really fun and educational day out.

If the place looks familiar, it might be because a lot of the Harry Potter films were actually filmed on the grounds of Alnwick Castle, so you can live out all your Hogwarts fantasies. It’s a great place to spend a summer day due to the expansive grounds where kiddos can roam and explore. 

You can discover some of the best things to do in Alnwick here!

Enjoy Big Screen on the Beach in Brighton

If you love spending your time watching movies but don’t want to waste your summer holiday inside, you need to check out the Big Screen on the Beach in Brighton. 

Located on Brighton’s iconic beachfront, this summer activity involves a giant outdoor cinema experience. With past films including family favourites, cult classics, and Oscar winners, there’s a little something for everyone. Remember to bring plenty of popcorn!

Feel cultured at Henley Royal Regatta

Want to feel quintessentially English during your summer trip? Get yourself a ticket to the famous Henley Royal Regatta and make sure you dress accordingly. It’s a royal event for a reason! 

This famous rowing regatta brings together the very best schools and teams from all around the world over the course of a few days. Held at the start of the summer, it’s a great way to kick off the season. The Pimms and champagne are definitely flowing, so come prepared!

Check out Notting Hill Carnival

If you’re in London on August Bank Holiday weekend, you’re definitely going to want to check out the party vibe of Notting Hill Carnival . This legendary Caribbean festival has been happening every year since 1966 and it’s amazing. 

The streets are full of parades, music, dancing, and huge carnival costumes with feathers and headdresses – it’s amazing. And don’t even get me started on the food and drink! Delicious curries, plantain fries, and plenty of rum punch that helps get the party going! 

Get your thrills at Blackpool Pleasure Beach

One of the best summer activities in England is to load the family into the car and head up to Blackpool Pleasure Beach . This north west theme park is a huge family favourite and is full of rides and amusements. 

The Blackpool area is popular in the summertime due to its beachfront, promenade, arcades, and general summer tourism vibe. There are also plenty of events and shows on throughout the summer, so check out what’s on before you travel. Don’t forget to get plenty of Blackpool rock to take home!

Hike the Pennine Way 

I absolutely love hiking in England in the summer months. Although the trails tend to get a bit busier, it’s worth the trade-off for clear views and great weather. One of my favourite hikes is along the Pennine Way in the Peak District .

Although the Pennine Way spans most of the country, you can easily go on a day hike anywhere along this ancient trail. See waterfalls, valleys, English wildlife, and more!

I’d recommend a day hike around the Edale area, this way you can hike to Kinder Scout, the highest point in the Peak District!

Paddleboard in the Lake District National Park

If hitting the water is more your thing, I’d definitely recommend heading up to the Lake District National Park . As the name suggests, the area is full of exquisite lakes, perfect for exploring by boat or by paddleboard.

You can easily hire paddleboards and kayaks from many of the towns around the lakes such as Windermere, Keswick, or Ambleside. It’s a super outdoorsy area, so if you need a lesson, this is the place to get one.

You can even join day tours, paddle around the area, learning about the landscape and history of the national park.

Go punting on the River Cam

Sticking with the watery theme, if you’re in the stunning city of Cambridge, there’s a tradition that you need to try. Punting on the River Cam is like taking a gondola ride in Venice, and it’s a great way to see the city in summer.

As many students have left for the holidays, it’s pretty easy to turn up and get on a tour, or self-hire a punting boat and go off on your own little adventure! I have to say, bring a camera because these things might look easy to manoeuvre, but it definitely takes some time to get used to!

Get Centre Court ready at Wimbledon

If you’re into tennis, there’s only one place you need to be in summer and that’s in SW19, otherwise known as Wimbledon . As one of the four tennis Grand Slams, this historic tennis tournament brings all the big names from across the world.

There are a few ways to get tickets, including the iconic queue that winds around Wimbledon Common, and ground passes start at just £30 so if you can get tickets, it can be a cost-effective way to see some legendary sports stars. 

Check out the views across the Jurassic Coast

Want to check out some of the best coastal hiking in the UK? Head down to the Jurassic Coast. With mighty cliff faces looking out over the water and both multi-day and single-day hike itineraries available, it’s a beautiful part of the country. 

If you’re interested in archaeology and fossils, this area, as the name suggests, is famous for them. As you walk, you’ll be able to spot different rock formations and fossils that indicate just how ancient this landscape is!

So, if you’re looking for some amazing things to do in England in summer, there you have it! What are your favourite things to do in the summer months in England? Let me know in the comments below and I’ll make sure to check them out!

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Adventures of Alice

UK in Summer: The 18 Best Places to Visit

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There are many places around the world that I consider fantastic destinations to visit in summer and the UK is one of them. If you’ve visited this blog before, then you probably know that I’m not a huge fan of summer travel. It’s noisy, busy, expensive, and altogether not particularly enticing. However, I actually love the UK in summer – well, certain parts of it anyway!

Admittedly, the cities are still very busy, as are many of the beaches. But if you know where to look and find those hidden gems, you can discover a beautiful summer spot that’s both peaceful and perfect. 

So, if you’re looking for a summer escape, here are the best places to visit in the UK in summer.

Average summer temperature : 20°C / 68°F

Let’s start with one of my favourite places to visit in the UK. Dorset is stunning . With its wild coastline, rich history, and natural wonders, Dorset is a great place to visit in the summer months. 

One of the highlights of the area is, of course, the Jurassic Coast. And when in Dorset , it would be silly not to visit the infamous Durdle Door. As well as the coastline, Dorset also has a collection of adorable villages, beautiful castles, wonderful national parks, and great hiking trails. 

You can find a beautiful beach to explore one minute and be strolling along the South West Coast Path the next! From the rolling hills of the Jurassic Coast to the timeless beauty of places like Portland , Weymouth , and Corfe Castle, Dorset is spectacular in summer.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Dorset

2. Cornwall

Average summer temperature : 19°C / 66°F

While summer is easily the busiest period in Cornwall, there’s something undeniably charming about the coastal county during this season. 

Sure, the popular spots might see their fair share of visitors. But, if you navigate the nooks and crannies, you’ll find hidden coves, historic sites, and breathtaking landscapes. Plus, there’s so much history in Cornwall. 

If you’ve ever spent an afternoon enjoying the sunny days, wandering the walls of Tintagel Castle, the Minack Theatre, or the Lost Gardens of Heligan, you’ll honestly never want to leave. 

From the artistic charm of St Ives to the rugged beauty of the Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall in summer is a surprising gem for those seeking a British coastal escape.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Cornwall

3. Cambridge

Average summer temperature : 23°C / 73°F

Cambridge is (and probably will always be) one of my favourite cities in the world. It’s so pretty with the architecture, the universities, and the river running through the centre. And, once the flowers are all in bloom and the sun is shining, it’s one of the most beautiful cities in England. 

There’s plenty to keep you busy in Cambridge . Go punting on the River Cam, climb St Mary’s Church for wonderful views over the city, explore the famous universities, or visit some of the museums Don’t forget to check out the central market for a collection of wonderful food stalls!

As well as this, the areas surrounding the city are ideal to explore in the summer months too. You’ve got a great range of parks and green spaces, ideal for walks , picnics, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

Head to Paradise Nature Reserve, go for a picnic in Grantchester Meadows or even head to one of the nearby villages for a walk and a coffee and scone by the river. 

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Cambridge

Average summer temperature : 21°C / 69°F

Possibly one of the most underrated parts of the UK, Devon is ideal to visit in the UK in summer. It’s breathtaking – and I don’t say this lightly.

There honestly is so much to see in this pretty county. It’s the only county in the UK to have two coastlines and two national parks – so, safe to say, there’s lots to explore!

My personal favourite place to visit in Devon is Dartmoor National Park. It’s honestly so pretty and has so many hiking trails, waterfalls, and hidden gems that you could stay near Dartmoor for a week and still not see everything there is to see there. 

On top of the National Parks, Devon also has some stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and gorgeous towns. Be sure to visit the historic town of Totnes , wander around Salcombe, and explore Plymouth and Torquay – you won’t be able to get enough of Devon in summer, trust me!

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Devon

5. Yorkshire

Another spot that has the ideal blend of big cities and stunning natural scenery is Yorkshire. The country in the north of England is mostly known for the bustling city of York .

It’s one of the most historic cities in the UK with its infamous Minster, picturesque Shambles Street (a Harry Potter fan’s dream ), and hilltop castles. However, there’s plenty more to Yorkshire than just York . 

You also have got to head to the Yorkshire Dales. Featuring more Harry Potter influences (did you know they filmed a scene from The Deathly Hallows here?), some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the UK,  and some utterly fantastic hiking trails, it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer. 

Also in Yorkshire, the North York Moors are also worth a visit for more hiking and wild moorland. Plus, on the east side of Yorkshire, you’ll be within easy reach of the coastal towns of Whitby and Scarborough and picturesque spots like Robin Hood’s Bay. 

Whether you’re hiking through the lush greenery of the Dales or savouring a traditional Yorkshire pudding wrap at a street market, Yorkshire in summer is unforgettable.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Yorkshire

6. Snowdonia

Average summer temperature : 18°C / 64°F

If you’ve dreamed of climbing the UK’s highest mountain but the prospect of doing so under the near-constant cover of rain that north Wales is blessed with. You might want to consider visiting Snowdonia in the summer. 

The rugged beauty of Snowdonia National Park takes on a softer, more inviting vibe during the warmer months. Its majestic peaks, peaceful lakes, and lush valleys are practically asking to be explored.

Hiking enthusiasts can attempt to climb Mount Snowdon, while those seeking a more leisurely pace can meander through other enchanting trails in the National Park, discovering hidden waterfalls and ancient woodlands. 

The quaint villages and coastal towns like Llandudno nestled at the foothills offer a warm Welsh welcome. You’ll find cosy pubs, fish and chip shops, and charming cottages.

Whether you’re conquering summits or enjoying a leisurely lakeside picnic, summer in Snowdonia is both invigorating and soul-soothing. Snowdonia is perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Snowdonia

7. Edinburgh

Edinburgh in summer is both charming and a little hectic. I’ve utterly loved visiting Edinburgh in the winter months and summer is a completely different vibe. However, that doesn’t make it any less worth it. 

The cobbled streets of the Old Town come alive with the buzz of festivals and street performers – the iconic Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes place every August attracting a load of people from all over the world. It’s truly an electric vibe and well worth the visit.

As well as the events in the city, some of the classics are still worth a visit. The iconic Edinburgh Castle towers proudly over the city. From the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Edinburgh below.

Princes Street Gardens is alive with a riot of colours and is the ideal place for an afternoon stroll among the flowers. The Royal Mile also becomes a bustling thoroughfare, lined with quirky shops, charming cafes, and lively pubs. 

From the lively chaos of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe to the beautiful views from Arthur’s Seat, the city offers a delightful mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty.

Whether enjoying a panoramic sunset from Calton Hill or sipping whisky in a cosy pub, Edinburgh is one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Edinburgh

8. Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight was one of my favourite places to visit as a child. My parents took me there and it was the first time I’d ever left mainland England . Safe to say, it’s left a pretty lasting impression.

In the summer months, it’s nothing short of stunning. This peaceful little island off the southern coast of England has so much coastal beauty and lush landscapes during the warmer months.

The sandy shores, like those at Shanklin and Sandown, are ideal for relaxing and catching a tan, while the dramatic cliffs of the Needles add a touch of awe to the scenery. Meanwhile, quaint villages such as Godshill and Ventnor exude a timeless charm, with their thatched cottages and vibrant gardens. 

You can also find the festival atmosphere on the Isle of Wight as well as in Edinburgh, especially during the Isle of Wight Festival , which brings a lively energy to the island.

Whether exploring the historical Osborne House, embarking on scenic coastal walks, or exploring the stunning Blackgang Chine, the Isle of Wight in summer is the ideal island escape, without leaving the UK.

✅ Discover the best places to stay on the Isle of Wight

One of the UK’s most picturesque cities , Bath is easily one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer. The historic centre will undoubtedly be busy, but with warm weather, gorgeous historic sites, and plenty of hidden gems, there’s a lot to see in Bath.

Bath in summer is an exquisite blend of history and natural beauty, with its Georgian architecture and lush greenery creating a picture-perfect English escape. The lush greenery of the Royal Victoria Park provides the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.

The River Avon weaves its way through the city, creating picturesque scenes along the Pulteney Bridge and the tranquil Kennet and Avon Canal. 

You absolutely have to visit the iconic Roman Baths. A trip here is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history. The vibrant energy of Bath Abbey Square is infectious too, with street performers and alfresco diners creating a lively atmosphere. 

Bath in summer is captivating. A perfect combination of past and present and an ideal English city to visit during the warmer months.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Bath

10. Norfolk

Average summer temperature : 22°C / 71°F

Norfolk is easily a hidden gem in England . It’s one of those places where you don’t quite expect there to be so much beauty, but you end up running into pretty places at every turn. 

First, visit the vast Norfolk Broads. Dotted with picturesque windmills and meandering waterways, they provide a peaceful setting for boating and birdwatching. 

Next, the North Norfolk Coast reveals its unspoiled charm, with beautiful beaches stretching along the coastline. I personally love the cliffs at Hunstanton and think the colours here are stunning.

Then, quaint villages like Blakeney and Burnham Market provide the charming side of Norfolk, with cobblestone streets, little cottages, and historic architecture. 

There are so many nature reserves in Norfolk which makes it ideal for those who love the outdoors. Plus, many of the beaches are so vast that they’re never too crowded, from Hunstanton down to Cromer.

But, if you prefer things a little more lively, head to Great Yarmouth for the typical British seaside town vibe.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Norfolk  

Oxford is a fantastic place to visit in the British summer time. With a similar academic charm to Cambridge, you’ll find a plethora of universities, stunning architecture, and history.

But you’ll also find castles, splendid museums, iconic spires, and historic landmarks, such as the Radcliffe Camera 

The tranquil meadows along the River Cherwell beckon with the promise of lazy punting afternoons, while the floral wonders of the University of Oxford Botanic Garden burst into vibrant bloom. 

You can practically taste the city’s vibrant energy down the bustling streets surrounding the Covered Market, where you can browse the various shops and open-air cafes until your heart’s content. 

From the beauty of the Magdalen College grounds to the intellectual atmosphere of the Bodleian Library, Oxford is one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Oxford

12. The Lake District

If you love hiking trails and beautiful scenery, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the Lake District. Easily one of the most picturesque parts of the UK, the Lake District in summer is a stunning combination of rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and quaint villages. 

The landscapes are their greenest in the summer months, which makes the whole region a haven for nature enthusiasts. A few of the must-visit spots include Lake Windermere and Lake Derwentwater, the ideal spots for leisurely boat rides and lakeside strolls.

If you like hiking, you could even attempt England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike. Or try other trails such as Cat Bells for stunning panoramic views. 

As well as rolling hills and lakes, you also have charming towns like Ambleside and Keswick, which are super cute with their cobbled streets and pretty tearooms. 

From the historic charm of Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top to the peaceful serenity of Grasmere, the Lake District is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the beauty of England’s countryside.

✅  Discover the best places to stay in the Lake District

13. Bristol

Bristol is one of the most captivating cities in the UK, yet somehow many people always seem to skip it. With the surrounding natural beauty and vibrant city centre, Bristol has a range of things to keep you busy.

There are historic museums, thought-provoking street art, cosy cafes, and picturesque viewpoints.

In the summer months, the harborside, with its vibrant cafes and bustling waterfront, becomes a focal point for both locals and visitors. It’s the perfect backdrop for leisurely walks and alfresco dining.

The colourful houses of Clifton and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge are well worth a visit. The views across the Avon Gorge are truly stunning.

The city’s street art scene comes alive with the vivid colours of festivals like Upfest, transforming the streets into an open-air gallery.

Parks and green spaces, such as Ashton Court Estate are the ideal places for picnics and outdoor activities. Meanwhile, the historic SS Great Britain is a must-visit for history lovers.

Bristol in summer seamlessly combines its rich maritime history with a contemporary cultural flair, making it a wonderful place to explore.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Bristol

14. The Cotswolds

From bustling cities to charming little villages, the Cotswolds are picture-perfect in the summer months. Admittedly, my personal favourite time of year to visit them is in the autumn once the leaves change colour.

But it’s much cooler then, and if you love floral blooms and sunny streets, summer is perfect. 

A few of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds include Bibury (named the most beautiful village in England ), Castle Combe, Upper and Lower Slaughter, Cirencester and Bourton-on-the-Water. The villages come alive with floral displays, and their limestone cottages are some of the prettiest in the country.

The scent of blooming flowers fills the air as you wander through the meticulously maintained gardens of Hidcote Manor or stroll along the peaceful banks of the River Windrush.

The Cotswold Way offers scenic walking trails, while cosy tearooms are perfect for grabbing a cream tea and relaxing by little streams.

If you’re after historic market towns that capture the essence of rural England, the Cotswolds is one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Cotswolds

I couldn’t write a list of places to visit in the UK in summer and not mention London now, could I? The bustling capital city is certainly not the most peaceful place to explore during the summer months. But, it has a certain charm to it when the days are warmer. 

It’s the best time to visit some of the city’s iconic landmarks : Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge. Plus, you can explore some of the city’s parks and gardens.

Holland Park and St James’s Park are really beautiful in summer. You can’t beat the music festivals going on in Hyde Park either. 

The South Bank along the River Thames comes alive with street performers, food markets, and cultural events. Rooftop bars offer panoramic views of the city skyline. And vibrant neighbourhoods like Notting Hill and Shoreditch are full of summer festivals and al fresco dining. 

It really is the perfect time of year to visit London and experience British culture. However, be warned, prices do shoot up during summer. And there’s still always the chance of rain!

✅ Discover the best places to stay in London

16. Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is a gem in the summertime. The captivating blend of dramatic coastlines and emerald-green scenery comes alive and it’s a great time of year to explore.

The Causeway Coast, with its rugged cliffs and the iconic Giant’s Causeway, offers a breathtaking and incredibly photogenic backdrop.

The vibrant city of Belfast buzzes with cultural events and lively festivals, while the Mourne Mountains provide the perfect spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Coastal villages like Ballintoy and Cushendun are completely charming, their harbours and traditional pubs well worth exploring. 

From the enchanting Dark Hedges to the medieval castles like Dunluce Castle, Northern Ireland is the ideal blend of history and natural beauty.

✅ Discover the best place to stay in Northern Ireland

17. The Peak District

Another of England’s most stunning National Parks, the Peak District is a perfect place to explore in the UK in summer. Featuring rolling hills, meandering rivers, and charming stone villages, the Peak District is an enchanting landscape ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Visit the iconic Chatsworth House, nestled amidst manicured gardens. Go for walks along the Monsal Trail or the Tissington Trail, both offering stunning panoramic views of the countryside.

Or, explore quaint market towns like Bakewell and Buxton for a taste of local charm, with historic marketplaces and welcoming pubs.

In the heart of summer, the Peak District is the ideal peaceful escape in the United Kingdom, full of meadows, woods, and craggy peaks, and ideal for those who love the great outdoors .

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Peak District

18. Scottish Highlands

Last but not least, if you want one of the best places for hiking and outdoor adventure, all while exploring one of the most remote parts of the UK, you have to visit the Scottish Highlands .

There’s so much beauty here from the heather-clad hills to the breathtaking clifftop panoramas. You can visit tranquil lochs, such as Loch Ness and Loch Lomond, explore breathtaking isles, and even drive one of the most famous road trips in the UK – the NC500. 

The weather during the summer holidays is certainly the best you’re likely to find in northern Scotland. The air is crisp, and the sun is warm, creating the perfect atmosphere for exploring the outdoors. 

The hiking trails, like those in Glen Coe and the Cairngorms, offer unparalleled views of towering peaks and lush valleys, beckoning adventurers to embrace the untamed beauty. 

As well as natural beauty, you’ll also find ancient castles and ruins dot the landscape, and remote villages like Plockton and Ullapool exude a charm as timeless as the Cotswolds. It’s easily one of the most beautiful places to explore in the UK in summer. You’ll probably fall in love with it.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Scottish Highlands

Final Thoughts on Visiting the UK in Summer

Overall, the UK in summer can give you a bit of everything. You’ll have a much higher chance of good weather. In fact, you’ll find the best weather of the year no matter where you go! Although it’s the UK, so rain is still possible pretty much everywhere!

But, it’s more than ideal for exploring hidden glens, National Parks, hidden beachside coves, beautiful cities, and charming woodlands. The UK is so stunning in summer and I hope this has inspired your perfect getaway.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Some of the links above may be affiliate links that earn me a commission at no extra cost to you. If you purchase through my links – thank you so much! I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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• Seasonal breaks

Summer holidays

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Planning an England trip in 2024? Consider these 16 top places to visit

Feb 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Gracious Bath is an excellent place to immerse yourself in England’s history and beauty © gowithstock / Shutterstock

The story of  England  stretches back more than 5000 years (and likely many more). Which means its impossible to escape the past here.

As you wander its historic urban centers, mysterious monoliths, misty landscapes and rugged  coastlines  and national parks , you’ll discover a country filled with unparalleled places to visit that are are the more compelling thanks to all those who have visited them before.

As you plan a trip to England this year, here’s our list of 16 historic, exciting and all-around fabulous highlights to consider.

1. The Seven Sisters 

While  Dover ’s iconic white cliffs grab the most attention, the colossal chalky walls of the Seven Sisters are a more spectacular affair, a four-mile roller-coaster of sheer white rock stretching along the Sussex shore and overlooking the waters of the English Channel. It forms an impressive southern border to the South Downs National Park , and is most dramatic at the towering headland of Beachy Head . Hikes through the grassy clifftop fields provide wide sea views, breathtaking in every sense.

Local tip:  Stop for a breather at the tiny seaside hamlet of Birling Gap, where the secluded beach is a sun trap popular with locals and walkers.

Oxford  lets visitors feel close to the brilliant minds and august institutions that have made this city famous across the globe. This rarefied world comes to life in the cobbled lanes and ancient quads where cycling students and eccentric academics roam. The beautiful college buildings and stunning architecture have changed little over the centuries, coexisting with a lively, modern, working city. As befits a city of students and professors, Oxford is one of the last bastions of the great British pub, with irresistible old watering holes dotted all over its central lanes and alleyways. 

3. Cambridge

In England’s other great historic university city, Cambridge , you can tour a  college , and spend time marveling at the intricate vaulting of King’s College Chapel . But no trip to Cambridge is complete without an attempt to take a punt (flat-bottomed boat) along the River Cam by the picturesque Backs , the leafy, green lawns behind the city's finest colleges – an experience that offers the best views of the exquisite architecture. Polish off the day with a pint at one of Cambridge’s many rustic pubs. 

In a nation packed with pretty cities, Bath  stands out as the belle of the ball. Founded by the Romans, who established the spa resort of Aquae Sulis to take advantage of the area’s hot springs , Bath hit its stride in the 18th century, when the rich industrialist Ralph Allen and architects John Wood the Elder and John Wood the Younger oversaw the city’s transformation into a model of Georgian architecture at its most refined . Bath is awash with golden stone townhouses, sweeping green crescents and Palladian mansions, along with appealing pubs and restaurants, and you’ll take great pleasure in plunging in. 

5. Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the country's most dramatic Roman ruins, a 2000-year-old procession of abandoned forts, garrisons, towers and milecastles marching across the wild and lonely landscape of northern England. While the Romans built the fortification to defend and control its territory, this edge-of-empire barrier also symbolized the boundary of civilized order in the ancient world: to the north of the Roman settlement lay the unruly land of the marauding Celts. Near Newcastle  you can visit Segedunum , the wall’s last stronghold, for an insight into life during Roman times.

Planning tip:  Hiking the full 84-mile distance coast to coast along the national trail takes around a week. If you have less time and your own car, you may want to select from a few of the wall's  highlights .

With its Roman and Viking heritage, ancient city walls and maze of cobbled streets, York is a living record of English history. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider’s web of “snickelways” (narrow alleys), each one the focus of a ghost story or historical character. At the city’s heart lies the immense, awe-inspiring York Minster , the biggest medieval cathedral in all of northern Europe, and one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world. Admire feats of engineering of a more recent vintage at the National Railway Museum , the world’s largest collection of historic locomotives.

York’s long history and rich heritage are woven into virtually every brick and beam, and the modern, tourist-oriented city – with its myriad museums, restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs – is a carefully maintained showcase of that heritage.

Local tip: You’ll find some of the finest views of York from its old city walls, particularly the bucolic section behind the Minster. 

7. The Peak District

Curiously, you won’t find many peaks in the Peak District . You will find blissful miles of tumbling moorland, plunging valleys, eroded gritstone crags, lush farmland and ancient pocket-sized villages. This beautiful landscape attracts a veritable army of outdoor enthusiasts – cyclists, hikers, cavers and rock climbers – on summer weekends, while those seeking more relaxing enjoyment can admire the rural market and famous puddings of Bakewell, the Victorian pavilions of spa-town Buxton, and the architectural drama of Chatsworth House – the “Palace of the Peak.”

8. Brighton

Barely an hour’s train ride from the capital, the seaside city of Brighton has a quirky character that’s completely its own. Overlooking the English Channel on England’s pebbly south coast, this is a city that's long been known for its oddball, alternative character. The warren of streets known as the Lanes is a good place to soak up the vibe, with vegan cafes, espresso bars, chaotic pubs, record stores and bric-a-brac shops. (Browsers will be in heaven at local institution Snooper’s Paradise .) You'll also find the UK ’s biggest queer scene here, and the region’s best small clubs. The highlight for the sightseeing visitor is the Royal Pavilion , a 19th-century party palace built by the Prince Regent, who kicked off Brighton’s love of the outlandish.

9. Stonehenge

Mysterious and compelling, Stonehenge is England’s most famous ancient site . Even though people have been drawn to this myth-laden ring of boulders for more than 5000 years, we still don’t know quite why it was built. An ultramodern makeover at the ancient site has brought an impressive visitor center and the closure of an intrusive road (now restored to grassland). The result is a strong sense of historical context, with dignity and mystery returned to an archaeological gem.

Most visitors gaze at the approximately 25-ton stones from behind the perimeter fence, yet with enough planning, you can arrange an early-morning or evening tour and gain access to the inner ring itself. In the slanting sunlight, away from the crowds, it’s an ethereal place. This is an experience that stays with you.

10. Stratford-upon-Avon

The pretty town of Stratford-upon-Avon is where William Shakespeare was born and later shuffled off this mortal coil. Today, its tight knot of Tudor streets form a living map of Shakespeare’s life. Huge crowds of thespians and theater lovers come to take in a play at the famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre . Bard fans will love visiting the five historic houses owned by Shakespeare and his relatives and  the schoolroom where he was educated, before taking a respectful detour to the old stone church where he was laid to rest.

11. Liverpool

It’s hard not to be infected by Liverpudlians’ love for their hometown. The love endured despite decades of decay and all manner of social ills – finding its expression in a renowned gallows humor and an obsession with football. With some of the most passionate crowds in the country, taking in a game at either Liverpool FC or Everton FC is a rite of passage here.

Outside of the stadium, the rejuvenated waterfront is once again the heart of Liverpool . The focal point is Albert Dock, an iconic docklands flanked by protected buildings, including a batch of top museums. The Merseyside Maritime Museum and the International Slavery Museum ensure the good and bad sides of Liverpool’s history are explored in equal measure, while the Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Story museum celebrate popular culture and the city’s most famous musical sons (still).

12. The Cotswolds

A tangle of impossibly quaint villages of rose-clad cottages and honey-colored stone, The Cotswolds  is a region that spreads over six English counties. It’s a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and its most wonderful quality is that no matter where you go or how lost you get, you’ll still end up in a spot with a charming village green, a pub with sloping floors and fine ales, and a view of the lush green hills. Crisscrossed by long-distance trails including the 102-mile Cotswold Way , these gentle yet dramatic hills are perfect for walking, cycling and horse-riding.

Local tip: It’s easy to leave the crowds behind and find your very own slice of medieval England here – and some of the best boutique hotels in the country.

A little weird, occasionally weather-beaten and all-around wonderful, the classic northern seaside town of Whitby has haunted lanes, fossil-hunting and arguably England’s finest fish-and-chips. The huddle of 18th-century fisher’s cottages along the East Cliff are testament to its longtime role as a busy commercial and fishing port: it was here that 18th-century explorer Captain James Cook earned his sea legs. Atop the West Cliff, a sandy beach, amusement arcades and promenading holidaymakers show Whitby’s beach-resort side.

Keeping a watchful eye over the town and the River Esk that divides it is an atmospheric ruined abbey , the inspiration and setting for part of Bram Stoker’s Gothic horror story Dracula . But tales of witchery and ghostly legends have haunted Whitby ever since Anglo-Saxon St Hilda landed here to found a monastic community in 657 CE.

Planning tip: The town embraces its pseudo-sinister reputation, which culminates in two hugely successful Goth Weekends each year.

14. The Lake District

William Wordsworth and his Romantic friends were the first to champion the charms of the Lake District  – and it's not hard to see what stirred them. Already the UK’s most popular national park, the Lake District also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, in recognition of its long history of hill-farming. But for most people it’s the chance to hike the humpbacked fells and drink in the gorgeous scenery that keeps them returning year after year.

The region is filled with outdoor pursuits, from lake cruises to mountain walks – excursions that help reveal why the region has such deep literary connections. In addition to Wordsworth, writers who found inspiration here include Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Arthur Ransome and Beatrix Potter.

15. The Eden Project

A cross between a lunar landing station and a James Bond villain’s lair, the gigantic hemispherical greenhouses of the Eden Project  have become a symbol of Cornwall ’s renaissance. Built in an abandoned clay pit near St Austell to mark the start of the new millennium, and now considered one of Britain’s modern architectural wonders, the Eden Project aims to explore issues of environment and conservation, and point the way to a cleaner, greener future for us all.

Exhibits cover everything from global warming to rubber production and chocolate-making. The glass-domed “biomes” recreate major world climate systems in microcosm, from the lush jungles of the Amazon rainforest (complete with treetop walkway winding through the canopy) to the olive trees, citrus groves and colorful flowers of the Mediterranean, South Africa and California. It’s incredibly impressive – not to mention educational, and inspiring, too.

Shoulder-deep in history, London ’s rich seams of eye-opening antiquity appear at every turn. The city’s architecture pens a beguiling biography, and a multitude of buildings – the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey , Big Ben – are internationally recognizable landmarks. It’s also a tireless innovator of art and culture, a city of ideas and imagination. This legacy is enshrined at world-class institutions such as the British Museum , Natural History Museum  and the Science Museum , as well as such world-leading art galleries as the  Tate Modern , Tate Britain , the National Gallery  and the recently reopened National Portrait Gallery , all of which are free to visit. 

Local tip:  However you budget your time and money in London, make sure you take in a show. Big names perform on  the West End (London’s equivalent of Broadway), and on the South Bank at the National Theatre  and  the Old Vic . Smaller theaters from the Almeida to the Lyric Hammersmith are places to discover up-an-coming talent.

This article was first published Apr 13, 2021 and updated Feb 26, 2024.

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Visiting the UK in Summer [Everything you need to know]

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 1, 2023

Are you thinking of visiting the UK in Summer? Then this comprehensive guide to the best places to visit and the best festivals, sporting events and festivals to attend in the UK in Summer is perfect for you. 

Summer is a lively and vibrant time in the UK. The country comes alive with festivals and outdoor events and both UK cities and countryside locations are busy with vacationing families. 

The UK will undoubtedly be busy at this time but dealing with crowds will be offset by warm, sunny days with daylight late into balmy summer evenings.

Advantages of visiting UK in Summer

Disadvantages of visiting uk in summer, places to visit in summer, events in summer, sports events in summer, festivals in summer, when is the best time to visit in summer, what is the weather like in summer , how many daylight hours are there in summer, what should i pack for visiting the uk in summer.

The main advantage of visiting the UK in summer is the weather. You will have long, warm light days to maximise your sightseeing. All attractions will be open and many will have extended opening hours. 

You have the chance to attend outdoor events such as sporting fixtures, concerts, theatre plays and festivals. The UK comes alive in summer with locals and tourists alike enjoying al fresco dining and beer gardens in country pubs. 

The main disadvantage of visiting the UK in Summer is the crowds. This is the peak tourist season for international and domestic tourists. 

UK schools will be on their summer break. Schools in Scotland break up in mid-June returning to school in mid-August. Schools in the rest of the UK finish in late July and return at the beginning of September. 

Wherever you visit and whichever form of transport you use, you can expect everywhere and everything to be busy! 

Things to do in the UK in Summer

As so many Scottish attractions are outdoors, the summer is the best time to visit Scotland. You can travel all over Scotland by train visiting iconic outdoor landmarks such as Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Isle of Skye . 

Enjoy a hiking trail in the Scottish Highlands , see The Kelpies , take a boat trip on a Scottish Loch, go whisky tasting in a distillery or explore one of Scotland’s 500 castles . 

Derbyshire is an often overlooked destination in the UK but it offers charming market towns, pretty villages, impressive stately homes and fantastic hiking in the Peak District . 

Base yourself in Bakewell and spend your summer days exploring Chatsworth House, cycling the Monsal Trail, hiking to the top of Mam Tor or along Stanage Edge or going underground in Blue John Cavern in Castleton. 

The Cotswolds

A trip to the Cotswolds is all about getting out of your car and wandering around the picture perfect villages of this area, so summer is an ideal time to visit the Cotswolds. 

Make a stop at Bibury, Upper or Lower Slaughter or the idyllic Bourton on the Water. Enjoy a cream tea in a pub garden, walk the Cotswolds Way or explore Warwick or Sudeley Castles. 

Summer in the UK is a busy time and you will be spoilt for choice as to which event or festival to attend. 

Trooping of the Colour

• Where – London
• When – Saturday in mid-June (17th June 2023)

The Trooping of the Colour marks the official birthday of the British Sovereign. It is usually held on a Saturday in mid-June and has been held annually for over 260 years. If you are visiting the UK in the hope of seeing some pomp and pageantry, this is the event to watch. 

The Trooping of the Colour consists of a parade of around 1400 uniformed soldiers, 400 marching musicians and 200 horses. The parade slowly proceeds from Buckingham Palace along The Mall to Horse Guards Parade. Among the parade are members of the Royal Family riding horses, marching or travelling in cars.

The grand procession is free to watch but you will need to arrive at The Mall early if you want to secure a good viewing spot. After the ceremony on Horse Guards Parade, the procession returns along The Mall to Buckingham Palace where the Royal Family usually come out onto the famous palace balcony to watch a fly past by RAF aircraft.

If you are lucky enough to be in London for the Trooping of the Colour, this historic ceremonial event is not to be missed.

Jane Austen Regency Week

• Where – Alton and Chawton, Hampshire
• When – June

This nine day festival celebrates all things Austen. It takes place in Alton and Chawton in Hampshire where Jane Austen lived and wrote her novels. 

The festival includes book readings, dramatic performances, guided walks, costumed parades, fan picnics and book discussion groups. It is a must for any Jane Austen fan. 

Tickets for Jane Austen Regency Week can be bought online in advance of your visit. 

Stonehenge Summer Solstice

• Where – Stonehenge
• When – June 21st

At sunrise on the 21st June each year, crowds gather at Stonehenge to celebrate the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. 

On this day, the sun rises directly behind the Heel Stone of Stonehenge, the entrance to the stone circle and demonstrates how Stonehenge was designed to align with the summer and winter solstices. 

You do not need a ticket to the solstice, just turn up and join the thousands of other people who trudge to Stonehenge from various car parks in the area. 

Note that the summer solstice is a significant ceremony for some people so there are rules on noise to keep the atmosphere as peaceful as possible. 

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

• Where – Edinburgh
• When – August

This rousing, military themed outdoor show takes place in Edinburgh Castle esplanade with Edinburgh Castle as a spectacular backdrop.

The Tattoo is performed every night for three weeks and consists of marching bands, bagpipers, dancers, military parades from the UK and from around the Commonwealth. The two hour show ends with a fireworks display. It is a hugely enjoyable event which sells out every year. 

Tickets are available in advance online from the Tattoo website. Note that this is an outdoor event with no protection from the weather so make sure you check the weather forecast before you go. 

• When – July

The Wimbledon Tennis Championships are known simply as ‘Wimbledon’ due to its location in the south west London suburb of the same name.

It is the world’s oldest tennis tournament and takes place in the first two weeks of July each year. Wimbledon is a fixture in the British summer calendar when even non tennis fans tune in to watch the action. 

Tickets for Wimbledon are allocated to UK tennis clubs via a lottery system. However, a number of tickets are held back each year for on the day sales. 

To get one of these tickets you must arrive at Wimbledon early in the day and be prepared to queue. In fact, the Wimbledon ticket queue is known as The Queue with some people camping out overnight to secure the best tickets. 

Royal Ascot

• Where – Ascot, Berkshire

Royal Ascot is the most famous event in the UK horseracing calendar. It is held over four days and is as famous for its fashion as it is for its horse racing.

Tickets can be bought online in advance from the Royal Ascot website and vary in price according to where on the racecourse you wish to access. Note that some Royal Ascot days have a strict dress code!  

If you want to see horse racing in a less formal atmosphere, race courses throughout the UK hold race meets during the summer. Many racecourses have a festival-like atmosphere with fun fair rides and music concerts in the evening after the racing has finished. 

• Where – all over the UK
• When – all summer

Cricket is known as the quintessential British summer sport and you will see it played in parks and on village greens throughout the summer. 

International matches (known as Test Cricket) take place each summer in large stadiums around the country so wherever you are you will not be far from a cricket match. 

Cricket stadiums in the UK include Old Trafford in Manchester, Edgbaston in Birmingham, Headingley in Leeds and Trent Bridge in Nottingham as well as the famous home of cricket, The Oval and Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. 

Summer is the season for festivals in the UK. There will be outdoor music festivals up and down the country, plus science, theatre, international themed and ‘green’ festivals.

Well dressing festivals

• Where – Derbyshire
• When – May to September

Well dressing is the tradition of decorating wells and natural springs in towns and villages throughout Derbyshire. 

Large elaborate pictorial scenes are created using only natural materials such as flowers, petals, seeds, beans and moss on a bed of clay. Each well dressing takes a group of volunteers around one week to complete. 

The erection of the well dressing art starts with a blessing ceremony which is usually followed by a village festival or fun fair. 

You can find a list of upcoming well-dressing events on the Peak District website. 

Highland Games

• Where – Scotland
• When – July and August

The Highland Games are a sporting and cultural event held in towns all over Scotland between May and September each year. The majority of the festivals take place in July and August.

The Highland Games showcase a variety of feats of strength games such as tossing the caber, the sheaf toss and the hammer throw. The all day event also includes food, drink and craft stalls plus drumming, Scottish dancing and piping displays and craft and food competitions. 

The largest Highland Games in Scotland are the Cowal Games which are held each August in Dunoon with over 3,500 competitors taking part. Many Highland games finish with an evening music concert or a traditional ceilidh dance. 

Tickets to Highlands Games are very affordable considering the range of attractions on offer and can be purchased from individual town and village games websites, details of which can be found here . 

The Edinburgh Fringe

This music, drama and comedy festival attracts big names and new artists from all over the world as well as tens of thousands of spectators. It is the world’s largest performance arts festival and lasts for three weeks each August. 

Thousands of performance events take place in hundreds of venues across Edinburgh. There is something for all ages and tastes from spoken word performances to stand up comedy to musical theatre to opera. 

Tickets can be bought in advance from the Fringe website . Any spare tickets for shows are sold from the Half Price Hut in Edinburgh city centre  on the day of performances. 

You can expect Edinburgh to be very busy during this time with high accommodation prices but it will have a fantastic festival atmosphere. 

FAQs about the UK in Summer

If you have to choose between June, July or August, choose June before UK schools break up for the summer.  June is a great time to visit England because it is warm but while busy not as crowded as it can be during July and August.

The average daily temperature in June is 18 degrees C / 64 degrees F with an average rainfall of 77 mm. 

July sees an average temperature of 20 degrees C or 67 F with a rainfall of 82 mm. 

August has a pleasant average temperature of 19 degrees C or 67 degrees F with an average rainfall of 94 mm.

There are an average of 17 hours of daylight per day in June and July and just under 16 daylight hours per day in August. 

Most days should have pleasantly warm summer temperatures so you should pack T-shirts, light tops and trousers and open-toed sandals. 

However, due to the unpredictable nature of the UK weather, it would be worth packing a lightweight jumper, a raincoat and a pair of closed-toe shoes or trainers – just in case! 

For more ideas and help planning your perfect UK summer trip, check out our essential step-by-step planning guide here.

• UK in spring
• UK in winter
• UK in autumn
• Scotland in winter
• London in Fall

A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 11 Places to Visit in the UK in Summer

Today I want to bring you A Lady in London’s guide to the best places to visit in the UK in summer. Whether you go this summer or in a future year, these British destinations are perfect spots to soak up the season in the warmer months.

Visiting the UK in Summer

One of the best things about visiting the UK in summer is that the weather is at its best. The prospect of warm weather (or as warm as it gets in Britain) and long daylight hours is a big draw.

That said, the British weather is unpredictable at the best of times, so make sure to come prepared. If you have the right clothes, you’ll be set, rain or shine. My summer packing list can help.

Places to Visit in the UK in Summer

I’ve drawn up my list of places to visit in the UK in summer from my personal experiences. I’ve traveled to all these places in the warmer months and can personally attest to how much I enjoyed them.

If you go to any or all of them, I hope you’ll love them as much as I have.

1. Scottish Hebrides

First on my list is the Scottish Hebrides. These islands off the west coast of Scotland are not only some of the most beautiful places in the UK , but also some of the best for getting away from the summer crowds.

I’ve taken two sailing trips in the Inner Hebrides, and both took me to islands that most visitors don’t get to. That means that even in peak summer season you can feel like you have the islands all to yourself.

My week sailing in the Scottish Hebrides took me everywhere from Mull to Iona, Lunga, Coll, and Ulva. It was magical to see all the puffins and other wildlife with nobody else around.

My 7 days sailing in the Scottish Hebrides took me to Rum, Muck, Canna, and a secluded loch on the Isle of Skye. It even brought me to Inverie on the Knoydart Peninsula, which is often considered the most remote place in the UK .

If you want more inspiration, you can watch my Scottish Hebrides video to see all the places I went on my first trip.

2. Isles of Scilly

Next on my list of places to visit in the UK in summer are the Isles of Scilly . These islands off the southwest coast of Cornwall are some of the most beautiful places in England .

This archipelago is a treasure trove of natural and human-made wonders alike. From stunning beaches to colorful harbors, it’s a great place to get into nature.

From the Tresco Abbey Garden with its plant species from five continents and enchanted ruined arches to the coastal walking paths and great local seafood, there’s a lot to love about this part of England.

Summer is the perfect time to visit the Isles of Scilly to enjoy the long days, beautiful light, and outdoor activities the islands offer.

Sark is another of the best places to visit in the UK in summer. Located in the Channel Islands off the coast of Normandy in France, it feels like another world.

With no cars on the island and a feudal past that reached well into the modern era, visiting Sark feels like stepping back in time.

Renting bicycles and cycling to beaches, gardens, and other local highlights is one of the top things to do in Sark .

As is eating. The seafood on the island is some of the best I’ve had on my travels, and eating fresh lobster and scallops here is a must.

Summer is a great time to visit Sark because the days are long and the weather fine for cycling, walking, and water activities. It’s also great because it’s easy to take a day trip to Guernsey to see more of the Channel Islands.

4. North Berwick

Back up in Scotland, North Berwick is one of my favorite places to visit in the UK in summer. This coastal gem near Edinburgh has a great mix of beach and town, not to mention a hill with spectacular views.

North Berwick is home to wide sandy stretches that run up and down the coast. Behind them are pretty streets packed with great shops, cafes, and restaurants. Colorful houses round out the scene, and it’s a photographer’s dream.

Berwick Law sits above the town and is a great hill for a hike. The views from the top reveal everything from the Isle of May to the Firth of Forth in the distance.

North Berwick is a great place to visit in summer because it comes alive with seaside fun.

Getting fish and chips from a beachfront vendor and enjoying an al fresco lunch on the water is the perfect way to enjoy an afternoon in the warmer months.

5. Northumberland Coast

Just over the border in the north of England, Northumberland is one of the most underrated places in Britain and one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer.

The coast in Northumberland is littered with castles, packed with beaches, and full of great seafood restaurants.

From Bamburgh Castle to Dunstanburgh Castle, there are fortresses to delight any history lover. And just inland is Alnwick, home to one of the most famous castles in England .

Craster is renowned for its kippers, Berwick-upon-Tweed for its bridges, the Farne Islands for their wildlife, and Holy Island for its hilltop Lindisfarne Castle.

If you want to explore this area, you can follow my Northumberland itinerary to see the highlights.

6. Llandudno

On the Welsh coast, Llandudno is another of the great places to visit in the UK in summer. This seaside town in North Wales has everything from a historic pier to fish and chips and beaches galore.

Llandudno is famous for its Victorian architecture, which graces the town with eye-catching architectural details and the longest pleasure pier in Wales.

It’s also home to the Great Orme, a hill packed with hiking trails and activities for adventure enthusiasts. There are great views of the town and coast from the top, too.

And speaking of the coast, Llandudno is the ideal place to visit in the summer because it has beaches on multiple sides. From north to west, there’s beautiful coastline to enjoy. Some of it comes complete with views of Anglesey , too.

7. Isle of Wight

Down south, the Isle of Wight is one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer for a number of reasons. Not only is it a great place for sailing and sunbathing, but also full of royal residences and a coastal path.

The Isle of Wight is famous for being home to Osborne House, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s family home. Not only is the house impressive to see, but the gardens, grounds, and beach are also perfect for exploring in the summer months.

The Isle of Wight Coastal Path is also great for country walks on long, warm days. This circular long-distance footpath runs for 70 miles (113 kilometers) around the perimeter and is a great way to see one of the best islands in the UK on foot.

If you like a good regatta, you can visit during Cowes Week on the Isle of Wight . This regatta takes place over eight days in August and is a great reason to visit the island in summer.

8. Brighton

Down on the south coast, Brighton is one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer. This city is famous for its history as a center of hedonism, its pebble beaches, and its pleasure pier.

Given its reputation as a seaside resort, Brighton comes into its own in the warmer months. The beaches are perfect on sunny afternoons, and it’s fun to walk out on the pier and take in the views from the end.

But it’s not just seaside in Brighton. The Lanes and North Laine are great areas for shopping. They have lots of independent shops and are colorful places to wander in their own right.

Not far from them, my favorite place in Brighton is the Royal Pavilion. This pleasure palace was built by King George IV when he was Prince Regent.

Its opulence and over-the-top grandeur are awe-inspiring both inside and out, and it’s a fun place to visit to see royal Brighton .

9. Cornwall

For those that want less opulence and more coast, Cornwall is the perfect place to go in the UK in summer. Jutting out into the sea, this is just the part of England to indulge your inner water lover, walker, or foodie.

From St Ives with its artistic scene to Newquay with its surfing, there are a lot of great places to stay in Cornwall.

History lovers will adore St Michael’s Mount, the tidal island with a castle on top. Those who are passionate about the environment will enjoy visiting the Eden Project, which features huge biomes filled with plants from all over the world.

And that’s to say nothing of walkers, who will have no shortage of options for coastal walks and inland rambles.

One of the best is The South West Coast Path, England’s longest long-distance footpath. Running for 630 miles (1,014 kilometers) from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset , it hugs the entire coast of Cornwall.

With all the outdoor activities on offer, summer is the perfect time to travel to Cornwall.

10. Scottish Borders

Back up in Scotland, the Scottish Borders are great places to visit in the UK in summer.

This underrated area just south of Edinburgh is the perfect place to escape the summer crowds and take in a part of Britain most visitors (and Brits, for that matter) never see.

The Borders are packed with stately homes, castles, abbey ruins, seaside towns, walking paths, and other attractions. There are days out in the Scottish Borders for every taste and interest.

From Sir Walter Scott’s Abbotsford House to Melrose Abbey and Floors Castle, there’s no shortage of historic landmarks and stunning homes to get excited about.

For lovers of the outdoors, the Borders have everything from the coastal walking path to the lighthouse at St Abb’s Head to some of the best places to see heather in Scotland in summer.

And that’s to say nothing of pretty towns and villages. Kelso is a gem with its stunning abbey ruins and pretty shops.

St Boswells is a favorite for the Mainstreet Trading Company, which has everything from a bookshop to a deli and home goods store. And St Abbs is beautiful with its colorful fishing boats and delicious seafood.

As much as the Scottish Borders make for a great summer getaway, it’s also convenient that they’re close to Edinburgh.

When the Edinburgh August festivals heat up in the Scottish capital, it’s easy to take a day trip to Edinburgh to see a show and take in the scene.

I couldn’t make a list of the best places to visit in the UK in summer without including London.

The UK capital is one of my favorite places to be in the warmer months, not least because the city comes alive when the weather warms up and the daylight goes on forever.

Summer in London is packed with activities, events, festivals, and fun. Everything from riverside pubs to rooftop bars livens up the city, and the parks and summer gardens are great picnic spots .

Sure, there are crowds. But there are plenty of places to escape them if you know where to go. From summer walks in local neighborhoods to big green spaces like Hampstead Heath , there are places to find peace in the city in summer.

Best Places to Visit in the UK in Summer

I hope my list of the best places to visit in the UK in summer has inspired you to get out and see more of the country in the warmer months.

I’ve enjoyed my visits to every place on this list, and I’m guessing you will as well. Happy travels!

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Visiting England in the Summer: 25 Best Things to Do in 2024

I’m a Brit, living in the UK, and I LOVE England in the summer months! Strawberries and cream, the gentle thwack of cricket balls on village greens, and long, light days. If you’re looking for inspiration for what to do in England in the summer, I’ve got you covered!

England is a perfect destination with a little bit of everything.

From quaint countryside villages to bustling city centres, UNESCO World Heritage sites , glorious national parks, stunning coastlines, and beautiful beaches, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in England in the summertime.

Grey Globetrotters Travel Blog contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my  disclaimer  for more information.

Best Things to Do in England in the Summer

Grab your sunglasses and sense of adventure, and let’s delve into the allure of this charming country during its most magical season.

Explore Central London

Are you ready to spend sunny days exploring one of the world’s most vibrant and exciting cities?

England’s largest city can be dreary and rainy at certain times of the year. But fear not! Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to discover everything this incredible city offers.

1. Take a London Guided Tour

Take advantage of the balmy England summer temperatures to enjoy a great London tour:

➡️ see the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace

➡️ tour the city in a Vintage open-top bus!

Related Post: Is London Worth Visiting?

2. Sip Cocktails in a Rooftop Bar

Nothing says “summer in the city,” like sipping cocktails while taking panoramic views of London’s skyline.

Personal favourites include the Madison Rooftop Bar near the magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral and Queen of Hoxton in buzzing Shoreditch.

3. Take a Leisurely Cycle Ride

If you’re feeling adventurous (or want to work off those cocktails), why not rent a bike and cycle along the Thames? The Cycle Superhighway runs from Battersea to Tower Bridge and offers stunning views of London’s most iconic landmarks.

➡️ Check out the best London cycle tours here!

4. Get the Taste of London

Summer is the prime time to visit street food markets in London. From Borough Market to Camden Lock Market , there are endless options for sampling international cuisine.

And don’t forget about ice cream – head to Milk Train for some seriously Instagram-worthy soft-serve sweet treats. England in the summer is always better with ice cream!

5. Escape the Sun

The British Museum is a great place to cool down and explore on a hot day if you’re a history lover (or escape the elements if there’s a spot of bad weather).

Discover artefacts from around the world, a splendid library and the most incredible, Instagrammable ceiling.

England’s capital city is a treat to visit any time of year. The long lazy summer days are made for exploring London’s outdoor attractions.

Top Tip : Remember your comfortable walking shoes or sandals!

6. Get Walking

Make the most of the sunny weather and take a guided walking tour to see iconic London landmarks.  This tour of the Westminster area  includes  Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament  (including  Big Ben),  and   a visit to the impressive  Churchill War Rooms.

You may also enjoy a stroll through  Hyde Park , along the  Thames River , or a sightseeing tour in an open-top double-decker bus is more your style. It’s certainly a chance to rest your legs!

7. Laze in a London Park

Few things are more enjoyable on a sunny day than lounging in one of London’s many green spaces. Hyde Park is an obvious choice – it’s vast and picturesque – but if you’re looking for something less touristy, try Victoria Park or Clissold Park .

Discover Charming English Towns and Cities

Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of big cities? Do you crave a slower pace with a touch of charm and history? If you’re in England in the summer, look no further than its charming towns and cities.

This UNESCO -listed city is famed as one of the treasures of Britain for its elegant Georgian architecture and Roman baths . Potter around the quaint streets lined with shops, cafes, and pubs and catch a performance at the Theatre Royal.

Stroll through the perfectly manicured gardens at Prior Park or indulge in some retail therapy at the independent shops on Walcot Street.

Don’t Miss: The famous Royal Crescent or the Pulteney Bridge – one of only four bridges in the world to be lined with shops on both sides!

Top Tip : Take a dip in the naturally heated waters at Thermae Bath Spa – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!

BEST TOUR OF BATH FROM LONDON

Visiting Bath is one of the most requested day trips from London. This fabulous Bath, Windsor Castle & Stonehenge tour has 900+ stellar ratings!

If you love spa towns, you’ll also love Harrogate – the Yorkshire spa town where you can bathe in the original Victorian Turkish Baths favoured by European royalty!

There’s so much more to Oxford than one of the world’s most prestigious universities! Explore this “city of dreaming spires” as you wander through picturesque colleges, or take a punt down the River Cherwell for spectacular views.

From the grandeur of Christ Church College to the stunning Radcliffe Camera building at the fabulous Bodleian Library – you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Harry Potter movie set (in fact, parts of Hogwarts were filmed here).

10. Stratford-upon-Avon

For those who love literary history, Stratford-upon-Avon is a must-visit. Famously known as the birthplace of the legendary playwright William Shakespeare , this quaint town is a true gem for history buffs and literary enthusiasts.

You can wander down the cobbled streets and explore the many historical sites scattered throughout the town, including Shakespeare’s birthplace , Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Holy Trinity Church , where he was buried.

Don’t worry if your knowledge of Shakespeare is limited. Theatres in the town offer performances of his plays year-round. 

An ancient city in the north of England, steeped in history and character. The medieval city walls are a sight to behold – take a walk along them for panoramic views over York Minster – Europe’s largest Gothic cathedral.

When you’re ready for a break from sightseeing, head down to The Shambles – an ancient street full of quirky shops and cafes that looks like somewhere straight out of a Harry Potter story!

DISCOVER YORK

Find all the best things to see and do in York , including where to eat and stay.

Grays Court Hotel is a city centre hotel set in beautiful grounds between the city walls and York Minster, with luxurious bedrooms and a superb restaurant. It’s the only hotel in York with direct access to the York City Walls!

➡️ Check Prices & Availability at the Grays Court Hotel here .

12. Cambridge

Another famous university city with unique charm. You can’t miss K ing’s College Chapel towering over The Backs ; it’s one of England’s most iconic sights!

In addition to enjoying its beautiful buildings and gardens, such as Trinity College or St John’s College Gardens , which feature tranquil waterways perfect for punting, be sure not to miss out on visiting the Fitzwilliam Museum , with its vast collection ranging from ancient Egypt to modern art. 

13. Bristol

For a lively city, head west to Bristol. The buzzing city centre boasts colourful street art (courtesy of Banksy), boutique shops galore and plenty of places to eat and drink your way around town.

Take advantage of Clifton Village , too – where grand Georgian homes line pretty streets that lead down towards Brunel’s iconic suspension bridge.

14. Castle Combe

For the quintessential English village experience, you can’t beat Castle Combe – one of the prettiest villages in England, within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Wander past honey-coloured cottages listed as ancient monuments and look out for the yellow Dower House – made famous as Dr Dolittle’s house in the eponymous 1967 movie.

Check out the 14th-century Market Cross and pretty 15th-century St Andrew’s church before snapping the very Instagrammable bridge over Water Lane!

Top Tip : Visit outside of the school holiday period (when it will be heaving with tourists) and soak up the sleepy ambience.

15. Isle of Wight

For the best chance of English sunshine combined with stunning beaches and Victorian history, getaway on the Isle of Wight ferry for a short break! It’s one of the most popular UK holiday destinations.

Take the world-famous chairlift to see the Needles Rocks , explore Carisbrooke Castle or peek inside a royal palace at Osborne House – described at first sight by Queen Victoria as “impossible to imagine a prettier spot”.

BEST ISLE OF WIGHT TOUR FROM LONDON

This exciting 3-day tour of the Isle of Wight and England’s South Coast is the best way to see this pretty island and visit the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery!

16. Haworth Village

Love the Bronte sisters ? Treat yourself to a trip to Haworth in rural West Yorkshire to visit the Bronte Parsonage Museum – the house where the Bronte sisters lived and wrote their classic novels.

The village is full of quirky independent shops, cosy coffee shops, and friendly traditional pubs where you’ll be served superb British food !

For a real treat, ride the heritage steam railway from Haworth to Oakworth station – featured in the seminal movie “ The Railway Children “.

17. St Ives

Even on a rainy day in Cornwall, there’s plenty to do, with long coastal walking paths, the Eden Project and quaint seaside resorts to explore.

In St Ives, you’ll want to visit the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden and pick from the town’s best beaches ( Porthminster Beach, Carbis Bay Beach , and Porthmeor Beach .

The best time to visit this stunning South Coast seaside town is early June before the high summer crowds descend!

Explore England’s National Parks

Ah, the British summer – when the sun shines (occasionally), the skies turn blue (sometimes), and every inch of grass is covered in picnicking families.

But what if we told you there’s a better way to spend your summer days? A way that involves exploring some of England’s most breathtaking national parks? Trust us, swapping out your soggy sandwiches for hiking boots is worth it.

18. The Lake District National Park

One of England’s most famous national parks, and for a good reason. With its rolling hills, glittering lakes and charming villages, visiting the Lake District is like stepping into a postcard.

Spend your days hiking through wooded valleys and mountainous areas or trying your hand at water sports on Lake Windermere . Then treat yourself to a slice of sticky toffee pudding – after all, you’ve earned it! 

The Lake District is the ideal “escape-it-all” destination from London, especially if you love a good road trip!

19. Dartmoor National Park

This rugged landscape offers something for everyone – from wild Dartmoor ponies roaming free to ancient stone circles waiting to be discovered. Take a hike across the windswept moors before cooling off with a dip in one of the park’s many rivers and streams.

Top Tip: Pack some waterproofs because who knows when those famous British showers will hit!

20. Northumberland National Park

A hidden gem tucked away in England’s northeast corner. You’ll find miles of unspoilt heather moorland dotted with historic castles and Roman forts waiting to be explored, including the UNESCO World Heritage Hadrian’s Wall .

Visit the incredible Kielder Forest and make sure you take some time to stargaze at the dark sky observatory – Northumberland boasts some of the best views of the Milky Way around.

The summer holidays are also the perfect time for exploring the green spaces of the North York Moors , and the Yorkshire Dales . 

So pack up the car, grab your walking boots and make some memories of amazing outdoor experiences for the whole family!

Visit Iconic English Landmarks

England is awash with famous landmarks like Stonehenge and the White Cliffs of Dover , but they can get very busy in the summer months. Why not try one of these instead?

21. Jurassic Coast and Durdle Door

Famous World Heritage site Stonehenge at sunrise for a breathtaking view.

22. Holy Island of Lindisfarne England

Ancient Lindisfarne is one of the most beautiful island castles in Britain . Located on a tidal island in the North East of England, the site has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries.

It’s where the famous Lindisfarne Gospels were created in the 8th century and is stunning to visit – make sure to check the tide times before attempting your trip!

23. Camber Sands England

You can’t beat glorious Camber Sands for a stunning example of a British beach. It’s the perfect place for a traditional bucket and spade holiday!

Take a Trip to Fabulous Castles and Stately Homes

24. windsor castle.

Visiting Windsor Castle is one of the most popular day trips from London – and with good reason! It’s only a short drive by coach from London and stunning!

As the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, Windsor has been the family home of British monarchs for almost 1,000 years.  It’s one of the King’s official residences and a working royal palace .

Best Ways to Visit Windsor Castle

➡️ “DONE FOR YOU” GROUP TRAVEL : Book this top-rated one-day tour of Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath

➡️ INDEPENDENT TRAVEL: Buy your advance admission tickets for Windsor Castle here

25. Blenheim Palace

Beautiful Blenheim Palace is one of Britain’s best tourist attractions, and it’s particularly popular to visit from London during the long summer break.

Blenheim is a delight, from the opulent Palace State Rooms to the Churchill exhibition to “upstairs” and “downstairs” tours . And then there are the glorious gardens!

The best way to visit Blenheim for the first time is on a guided tour.

➡️ This highly-rated tour of Blenheim from London will take all the hassle of getting there away and maximise your time for exploring!

Indulge in English cuisine

British food  was once the butt of many jokes!

Today, however, you’ll find  tasty traditional British dishes  like fish & chips, bangers & mash, and steak pies, alongside popular dishes from around the world that have become staple English favourites.

Guided food tours are a fantastic way to sample a new cuisine. You get to taste foods you’ve never tried and see the heart of the city you’re visiting.

English Summertime Weather

English summertime weather can be unpredictable, but it keeps us on our toes! From sunburn to raincoats in minutes, we never know whether to expect warm summers or cold weather.

So pack an umbrella, embrace the English weather and enjoy all this quirky island has to offer!

This packing guide will help you choose what to bring, even if you do get some wet weather 🙂 🌂

Average England summer temperatures

England enjoys a temperate climate, with average highs in the 20s in the summer, although average temperatures range from 9-18 degrees!

Generally, the weather is warmer in the south of the United Kingdom than in the country’s northern areas, like the Scottish Highlands and islands,

The British Met Office forecasts that 2023 will be hotter in England than 2022 , where the highest temperatures exceeded 40 degrees Celsius in the summer. Don’t forget your sun cream!

In the shoulder season (September and October), it’s not uncommon to have an Indian summer in England, lasting until early October when the nights start to draw in and the temperature drops.

FAQs: England in the Summertime

Is summer a good time to visit england.

England’s weather in the summer is glorious but not too hot, making it a great time to visit the country and still be able to enjoy days out sightseeing.

Is July a good time to visit England?

July is the perfect time to visit England. You’ll benefit from the warmest temperatures and longest days if you visit at the start of the month – before

What is there to do in the UK in the summer?

The UK offers history, culture, exciting outdoor activities and incredible foodie experiences. From castles and cathedrals to coastlines, lakes, mountains, and beautiful towns and villages, there is something in the UK for everyone in the summer.

What are the best summer months in England?

The English summer runs from early June to the end of August, with the best weather typically seen in July and August. I recommend visiting England in July because everywhere becomes busy once the schools break for summer – at the end of the month, and there are so many things to do in the UK in July!

What month is best to go to London?

Early July is a great time to visit London – before the English school holidays six-week block begins, and the city becomes crowded!

Where in England is nice in the summer?

In addition to London, the English countryside and coast are some of the best places to visit in England in the summer.

How do you spend summer in the UK?

From watching the rowing at Henley Royal Regatta to strawberries and cream at Wimbledon, hiking in the English national parks or taking a dip at the seaside, plenty keeps you busy in England in the summer.

What to wear in England in the summer

Lightweight layers are the best plan for English summers, as the weather is changeable. Having a lightweight rain jacket and/or umbrella is always good!

Which city is warmest in summer in the UK?

London is the warmest English city in the summer, so you’ll need to carry a bottle of water – especially if travelling on the London Underground, where temperatures can get uncomfortably warm.

Which part of the UK is most beautiful?

Northern England, with the stunning national parks of the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire Moors and glorious Northumberland, is often overlooked by international visitors but is breathtakingly beautiful (in all seasons).

What are the hottest months in England?

Typically the hottest months in England are June, July and August, although September can also be pleasantly warm.

What month does it cool down in the UK?

In typical years, English temperatures fall in September and October as the days become progressively shorter.

What month is the coldest in the UK?

December, January and February are the winter months in England, with February statistically the coldest.

In Conclusion: Visiting England in the Summer Months

In conclusion, visiting England in the summer is an experience unlike any other. From the bustling streets of London to the picturesque countryside, there’s truly something for everyone and a great variety of places to visit in England in summer months.

So pack your bags and get ready for some good old-fashioned British fun!

Like it? Pin England in the Summer for Later!

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Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe, Egypt and China, with meticulously crafted travel itineraries and affordable luxury travel guides.

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23 Best Places To Visit In The UK In July (2024 Review)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole

The United Kingdom is a wonderful place for a summer holiday. The sun is shining and lovely warm temperatures await you on most days. Of course, it is England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and there is no such thing as guaranteed good weather in any month of the year! Nevertheless, July is a lovely time to visit Great Britain and beyond. Better yet, pretty towns, exciting cities, breathtaking beaches and stunning national parks are there to discover on a summer vacation. Whether you love to explore sophisticated cities, stumble upon hidden treasures tucked into quaint villages, or tread off-the-beaten path in parks and countrysides, the United Kingdom offers it all. Here are the 23 best places to visit in the UK in July.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other Options

Europe offers many fantastic holiday options in summer. If you are curious about what those are, please check out the following.

For other amazing destinations to visit in the United Kingdom, please see:

• 28 Best Places To Visit In The UK In June ;
• 22 Best Places To Visit In The UK in August ;
• 20 Best Places To Visit In The UK In September ; and
• 26 Best Places To Visit In The UK In Summer .

For great weather, the best time to visit the United Kingdom is June, July, August, and September. Accordingly, all three articles, in addition to this article, would be helpful for choosing the best vacations for any of these months.

If you are keen to travel to Europe in summer, but want to make sure that the destination won’t be too hot or humid, please see 24 Best Places To Visit In Europe For Mild Summer Weather . Overall, most places in the United Kingdom avoid extreme heat and humidity in summertime.

If you are looking for beach options for the United Kingdom and Europe, check out 27 Best Beaches To Visit In Europe In June and 25 Best Beach Holidays in Europe In September .

For those interested in the best vacation spots in Europe in July, please see 24 Best Places To Visit In Europe In July .

Europe offers many inexpensive destinations even in summer. For an in depth review of where to go, consider reading 28 Best Cheap Places In Europe For A Summer Vacation .

If you only have a few days to spare, then spend a few moments reviewing 26 Amazing Summer Weekend Getaways In Europe for some inspiration.

Best Places To Visit In The UK In July

Here are 23 of the best places to visit in July in the United Kingdom. Each destination highlights the best things to do, where to stay, how to get there, and expected weather for a summer getaway.

Castle Combe, England

By Jessie from Pocket Wanderings

Castle Combe  is a small village in the Cotswolds, nestled in the county of Wiltshire. It’s often considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in the United Kingdom, with its quaint, chocolate-box appeal. With no overhead cables or aerials, it’s a place that feels frozen in time. It is one of the best places for a summer trip in the UK.

The summer is the perfect time to go for a gentle amble through the village, soaking up the atmosphere while listening to the chirping of the birds and the trickle of the stream. Pick up some homemade delicacies from The Little Picnic Shop and enjoy some alfresco dining in this picture-perfect setting. For something more active, play a round of golf at The Manor House course or join one of the nearby walking routes.

The circular walk from Castle Combe to Ford and back is a beautiful 7km walk through pretty woodland and open grassland. Part of the walk takes you through Danks Down – an area of Special Scientific Interest. It’s great for spotting different species of bird, from buzzards and woodpeckers to marsh tits and owls. Once back in Castle Combe, treat yourself to an indulgent afternoon tea at The Manor House as a reward for your hiking efforts.  

The month of July offers the best chance of warm weather and sunshine, making it an ideal time to explore this village – which has little in the way of indoor facilities. Average highs are around 69 o F with the likelihood of some rain around 7 days. Being the UK, sunshine is never guaranteed, so bring an umbrella and packable raincoat just in case!

Best Way To Reach The Destination

The most convenient international airport for visiting Castle Combe is London Heathrow. It is a 90 minute drive away along the M4. For those flying from within the UK, Bristol airport is nearby. You can’t park directly within the village – which is part of its old-world charm – but there is a free car park just a 10 minute walk outside of the village.

Hotel Recommendation

Jessie says, “There are two hotel options within Castle Combe. For a luxury option, stay at the iconic Manor House hotel – a 14th century manor house with exceptional hospitality and elegant interiors. Or for a more budget-friendly option, try The Castle Inn for a cosy and comfortable place to stay. It’s also worth checking Airbnb for self-catering options, as some of the cottages in the village are available as holiday lets.”

Peak District National Park, England

By Jenny from Peak District Kids

The Peak District, nestled between the big cities of Manchester, Sheffield, and Derby, is the oldest national park in Great Britain. It is one of the best places for a July vacation in the United Kingdom for outdoor lovers.

There are an abundance of walks through winding valleys (such as the Dovedale or Lathkill Dale) to epic view points (such as the  Thorpe Cloud walk ), or along dramatic escarpments (such as Baslow Edge or Stanage Edge).

In addition, there are also lots of disused railway tracks that have been transformed into traffic-free cycle paths that criss-cross the National Park. These are relatively flat and wide, so perfect for families (such as the Monsal Trail and High Peak Trail).

From Castleton (one of the main villages in the Peak District), there are fantastic hikes up to Mam Tor and Lose Hill view points, or you can venture underground to explore the limestone caverns. Plus there are lots of pubs to treat yourself after a long day adventuring in the great outdoors.

The weather in the Peak District is notoriously interchangeable. Average high is 65 degrees Fahrenheit with the possibility of some rain around 8 days in July. In summer, it’s often warm enough for a wild swim.

However, you are more likely to experience four seasons in one day, so dress in layers and be prepared with good hiking shoes and a map. The temperature is always a couple of degrees cooler on the escarpment edges, and more if there’s a strong wind.

Manchester Airport is the nearest international airport, and from there you can be in Castleton within 45 minutes.

Jenny says, “ You won’t find any big hotel chains here in the Peak District. The best way to experience the National Park is by renting a self-catering holiday cottage on a farm (check out Peak Cottages). Or if you are visiting on a budget, look at the YHAs or campsites.”

Isle of Skye, Scotland

By Paulina from UK Everyday

One of the best places for a July holiday in Great Britain is the Isle of Skye. The largest and most northerly of the Inner Hebrides in Scotland attracts many tourists every year. Due to its unspoilt landscape, it is also a great destination for professional or budding amateur photographers.

The Old Man of Storr , pinnacles of rock set against the backdrop of rolling green hills and the coastline, is the most photographed place on the island. It is also possible to hike it. A relatively easy walk at just 3 hours, you will be awarded with impressive views such as the Scottish Islands Raasay, Rona and Harris.

There are also amazing waterfalls in this part of the UK such as Kilt Rock or Mealt Falls. For wild swimming, visit Fairy Pools which are also a great place for families.

Keep in mind that it rains a lot in Scotland. In July, expect around 12 days with some rain. Summer highs are around 60 o F, unless there is a heatwave in the UK. Then you can expect sunny warm weather even in the Isle of Skye.

Good news for the rest of the time as the island looks the most magical when it is gloomy. It is known as the mist island!

The best airports to fly to visit the Isle of Skye are in Glasgow or Edinburgh. It takes over 4 hours to drive there. However, with so many amazing places to stop along the way, you will not notice the July road trip. You can access the island via a free bridge.

Paulina says, “I f you are looking for a good hotel check out the beautiful town Portree. You can also choose Broadford and stay in the Hebridean Inn or book a room in one of the cottages in the northern part of the island. Hilltop House bed and breakfast is a good place to stop for a night while exploring  Isle of Skye.”

Bath, England

By Emma from Emma Jane Explores

Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage listed city  and the largest city located in the county of Somerset. It offers a gorgeous old town feel and summer events making it one of the best destinations to travel in the UK for a July getaway.

Bath is famous for its geothermal springs. In addition, it has incredible Roman Baths, a site that dates all the way back to the 5 th  century.

Make sure you visit the Royal Crescent – a curved street of townhouses that re-defines the word picturesque. The writer Jane Austen spent time in Bath and the town’s influence found its way into her novels. If you are an admirer of her work, then the Jane Austen centre in Bath is definitely worth a visit.

Have you even visited Bath if you haven’t sampled the town’s hot springs firsthand? Luckily in July, the weather doesn’t get ridiculously hot, so a soak in a geothermal spring is still very pleasant. Try the Thermae Bath Spa for all your wellness needs.  

Visiting Bath at any time of year is a great idea, but in the summer peak in July this town really comes to life. The Bath Carnival completely transforms the town’s old-world charm into a vibrant and modern party atmosphere.

Bath is also quite close to the mystical Stonehenge region, so try to make a day trip to see these magical stones.

Bath’s weather in July is usually balmy with highs in the low 20s Celsius (69 Fahrenheit). Expect around 7 days with some rain.

Bristol International Airport is the closest airport to Bath, but it is also very easy to fly into London and then take the train out to the Somerset region.

Emma says, “ Bath is full of excellent accommodation options, but for a real treat, consider the Gainsborough Bath Spa or the Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa – both are beautiful, high-end options.

Pembrokeshire National Park, Wales

By Rachel from Average Lives

Pembrokeshire National Park is one of the best destination for a July trip in the United Kingdom. The area is full of beautiful beaches, colourful towns, and a slow-paced way of life. 

In the north, you should make time to visit Great Britain’s smallest city – St Davids, which has a beautiful cathedral, shops, pubs and an excellent fish and chip shop. Nearby is the beautiful Blue Lagoon , which is an old quarry that has been transformed into an adventure playground. You can go coasteering, kayaking, swimming in the lagoon, or hiking above to discover hidden beaches.

In the south, you will be welcomed into the lively town of Tenby, which is a popular home base to explore the surrounding area. Although there’s plenty to do in the town itself, the natural beauty lies around its coastline.

It would be best if you headed to Barafundle Bay to see the most transparent water in Wales. Alternatively, catch a ferry to the nearby Skomer Island to see some of the 10,000 pairs of puffins. The puffins are there from April to August. However, the best time to see them is in the middle of June to the middle of July. During this time, they are looking for sand eels to feed their young. It is a beautiful sight to see.  

July has an average high temperature of around 65 °F (16°C) and is the fewest rainy days in the year (just 8). July can be cloudy, but it is one of the warmer months to visit.

To reach Pembrokeshire, the nearest airport is Cardiff (CWL) Airport, 75 miles away. From here, it would be best to hire a car and make stops along the way. 

Rachel says, “ A great place to stay would be at Beachcomber B&B in Tenby or in St David’s at Twr y Felin Hotel or Caerfai Farm, campsite closeby.”

Newcastle Upon Tyne, England

By Bridget from The Flashpacker

With its charming historic Georgian core, a thriving cultural agenda and foodie scene, rejuvenated quayside and suburban sandy beaches, this is one of the most attractive and vibrant cities in the UK for vacations in July.

Explore the city’s elegant Georgian streets, iconic bridges and waterfront on a walking tour. If you are a culture vulture, one of the  best things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne  is to visit the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art. Housed in one of the flour mills that lined the River Tyne, this landmark building is the setting for a changing programme of art exhibitions and events.

If it’s open spaces that you are after, fill your lungs with sea air by walking along the sensational beach from Tynemouth to Whitley Bay.

Furthermore, it is an excellent base for day trips to the historic city of Durham, Hadrian’s Wall or forays into the wild Northumberland countryside.

The weather in July is perfect. It’s one of the sunniest, driest and warmest months of the year with daytime temperature nudging 66 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius).

Most travellers arrive in Newcastle’s centrally located train station that has frequent direct train services to London King’s Cross station and to Edinburgh.

If you are flying from overseas, the closest international airport is Edinburgh, a two and half drive to the north. There is also a regional airport, located just six miles north-west of the city centre.

Bridget says, “ Newcastle upon Tyne has no shortage of good places to stay. Book a self-catering suite at the Staybridge Suites, an aparthotel one block from the quayside. The facilities at this affordable mid-range option include a well-equipped kitchenette, free in-house laundry and complimentary breakfast and tea and coffee.”

Exmouth, England

By Claire from Go South West England

Exmouth is on the southeast coast of Devon where the river Exe meets the sea. In July, the holiday town of Exmouth booms. It’s most famous for its vast beach which stretches for two miles, starting at the Exe Estuary and finishing at the red rock cliffs of the Jurassic Coast. It is one of the best beach destinations in Great Britain for holidays in July.

Some of the best things to do in Exmouth is rent paddle boards or kayaks from the prestigious watersports centre or visit the fascinating National Trust property A La Ronde. This is a 16 sided house where two spinsters lived. They filled the house with a collection of items from their world travels. 

You can hike the Exmouth part of the South West Coast Path, or trek inland to the moors, visiting charming villages like Otterton and East Budleigh on the way. In addition, the Exe Estuary Trail connects Exmouth with Exeter and takes in some fantastic riverside scenery and birdlife. 

Being on the south coast of the country, Exmouth has one of the best climates in England. However, it can be a bit cooler in the summer months than places like London, as it has a lovely coastal breeze. Expect average highs of 69 Fahrenheit and around 7 days of rain.

To get to Exmouth, you can fly into either Exeter Airport (a 20 minute drive) or Bristol Airport (a 1.5 hour drive). There are public buses from Exeter Airport and a coach service that connects Bristol with Exeter. 

Claire says, “ The seaside town is full of hotels and wonderful places to stay. The Devon Cliffs Caravan Park is a popular Haven resort. It sits midway between Exmouth and its neighbouring town Budleigh Salterton, sitting high on the cliffs of the oldest part of the Jurassic Coast. The Dolphin Hotel is also a recommended hotel in the town centre.”

Orkney Islands, Scotland

By Suzanne from Meandering Wild

The  Orkney Islands  are a small group of islands located off the north coast of Scotland. They are beautiful and would be one of the best places to visit in the UK in July.

The main island is known as Mainland. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Neolithic past that is slowly being uncovered.

Skara Brae is a Neolithic village, older than Stonehenge and has been excavated fully with an interesting visitors centre. Nearby is the Ring of Brodgar, a large circle of standing stones and Maes Howe, a burial chamber.

On the far north tip of Mainland is the Brough of Birsay. The island is home to puffins in July who nest in the cliffs close to the lighthouse. This makes for a lovely walk across the causeway and around the island.

The main city on Orkney is Kirkwall. The centre of the town is built around the red sandstone cathedral and the adjacent Bishops Palaces. There is a small and interesting museum that tells the story of the islands tucked away opposite the cathedral.

Orkney weather is unpredictable.  Even in the summer, there can be storms but these are calmer than the winter storms. 

Average high temperature in July is 60 degree Fahrenheit although there is always a cooling breeze. 

Rainfall is unpredictable but happens around 8 days during the month. However, any rain that does arrive is short lived and passes through quickly.

To get to Orkney, it is best to fly into Glasgow or Edinburgh. From there you will need a second flight to Kirkwall. 

If you would prefer to drive, then it is 6 hours from Edinburgh or Glasgow to the ferry terminal at Thurso. You will need to take a 90 minute ferry to the second main town of Stromness.

Suzanne says, “ Hotels on Orkney are limited but the Standing Stones Hotel in Stenness makes a good base. This hotel is located on the side of a loch with views to the Ring of Brodgar.”

Brighton, England

By Erica from Travels With Erica

Brighton is located on the south coast of England and is one of the most beautiful seaside towns in the UK. It is also one of the most popular and best beach destinations for getaways in July in the United Kingdom amongst locals and tourists. 

With the beautiful weather, most people head outside to the famous Brighton seafront and Palace Pier. You can walk along the seafront, play arcade games on the pier, and even ride a rollercoaster. 

When it is time to take a break from the midday heat, consider visiting the Royal Pavilion. It was King George IV’s favorite royal residence. He had extravagant taste, and a lot of the original decor is still displayed in the Pavilion. 

The Lanes are another must-visit attraction in Brighton. They’re a series of small, winding streets in the heart of the city. They feature small boutique clothing stores, tourist shops, and some excellent restaurants. It is the best places in Brighton to go if you’re looking for a good meal. 

July is one of the hottest and least rainiest months of the year. You can expect highs of 67 Fahrenheit with just 6 days of light rain on average. 

It is less than 2 hours away  from central London by train  and only 45 minutes from Gatwick Airport. By car, it takes 40 minutes to drive to Brighton from Gatwick. 

Erica says, “ You’ll be spending most of your time in Brighton in the southern part of the city near the seafront, The Lanes, and Royal Pavilion, so you should stay as close to the seafront as possible. The Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront is one of the best hotels near the seafront. It sells out quickly so be sure to book early.”

Belfast, Northern Ireland

By Sinead from Map Made Memories

The  city of Belfast  is the capital of Northern Ireland and is a vibrant city offering visitors a range of attractions. It is also a great base to start or finish a July road trip in Northern Ireland to see such places as Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge .

One of the most popular tourist attractions in the city is Titanic Belfast, the museum dedicated to the tragic story of the Titanic. As the RMS Titanic was built in Belfast, there is an equal emphasis on how the ship was designed and constructed as well as on the disaster itself. There is incredible and moving footage of the wreck of the Titanic in the museum’s auditorium. Don’t miss the SS Nomadic next door to the museum, one of Titanic’s tender boats that you can climb on board and explore.

Another Belfast must see is the Ulster Museum situated in the 26-acre Belfast Botanic Gardens. Exhibits range from Egyptian mummies to jewellery but “the Troubles” exhibit is worth a special visit. The “Troubles” refers to the three decades of civil unrest (that only ended in 1998) between the Catholics and Protestants in Northern Ireland where over 3600 people died.

If you are in Belfast over a weekend, browse the stalls at St Georges Market. The market has been operating since the 1890s and was voted the UK’s best indoor market in 2019. Tourists can purchase locally sourced fruit and vegetables, antiques, specialty foods or locally made crafts or just enjoy soaking up the lively atmosphere.

If you are traveling with teens, Belfast is an ideal destination.

Belfast weather is seasonal with cool, wet days even in summer so be prepared for all weathers when visiting the city. Summer high temperatures average around 65 o F (18 degrees Celsius) with around 2″ of rain.

Belfast International Airport is the closest airport is 18 miles north west of the city centre. Belfast is accessible in 30 minutes by car or public bus.

Sinead says, “ Stay as central as you can to the sights you wish to visit as Belfast traffic is notoriously congested. The budget-friendly Premier Inn or upscale Titanic Belfast are good choices as both are located in the Titanic Quarter near the Titanic museum. From here, it will take only 25 minutes to walk to St George’s market and the city centre.”

Newquay, England

By Kirsty from Lost In Cornwall

Newquay is a town on the North Coast of Cornwall right down in the South West of England. With its hippy and surfing communities it is very different from some of the more up market towns nearby. It is one of the best destinations for July trips in Great Britain.

The spectacular coastline and beaches are what draws people to Cornwall. Newquay has 8 beaches  in the town itself and there are at least a dozen more within easy reach by car or local bus. 

Each beach has a different vibe. Some are busy with families and some are more suited to long walks with your dog. Almost all have a gorgeous blue colour that you just don’t get anywhere else in the UK!

You can try your hand at a lot of watersports near Newquay but what many people come for is the surfing. You can hire gear or get beginner’s lessons with a variety of surfing schools. Most of the beaches have a lifeguard presence in July. 

Bedruthan Steps is a short drive from Newquay and will provide you with some peace and tranquillity.  It’s a stunning stretch of coastline with sea stacks that get battered by the sea. You can walk the coastal path here and really get away from the crowds.    

Cornwall is warm and sunny in the summer months although it can be prone to having days of rain as well. This part of the country sees slightly warmer weather than the rest of the United Kingdom due to its southerly position. In July, expect average highs of 65 degree Fahrenheit with 7 days of some rain.

Being in the southwest of the country, it can be a long journey by car from elsewhere in the UK. Thankfully, Newquay has its own small international airport which connects Cornwall to London, some other British airports and some European countries too. From the airport, it’s a 15 minute drive to town.

Kirsty says, “ When looking for a hotel, why not consider the iconic Headland hotel which was featured in the 90s classic film The Witches. It has a great position looking out on the sea. Yet, it is still walking distance to all the wonderful beaches. “

Jersey , British Isles

By Coralie from Grey Globetrotters

It’s hard to think of a better place to visit in July than the British Channel Island of Jersey. It is not actually a part of Great Britain or the United Kingdom but a beautiful destination in the British Isles.

From the stunning 50 miles of coastline crammed with beaches, coves and cute little harbours, to thousands of years of history, there’s plenty to explore by day, and really good restaurants and a lively nightlife too.

One of the most unique things to do in Jersey is to take a  RIB trip to Les Ecrehous  – an offshore island reef. You’ll probably see seals at the reef and be accompanied by a pod of dolphins on your way back!

If you love water sports, head for the glorious golden sands of St Brelade’s Bay to try paddle boarding or kayaking, or head further west to St Ouen’s Bay to try out the Atlantic breakers as the huge tide rolls in. Then tuck into something to eat at El Tico, but make sure to grab a window seat, so you can watch the surf.

Alternatively, Jersey has two must-see castles. Medieval Mont Orgeuil Castle dominates the harbour at Gorey and is full of nooks and crannies to explore. Elizabeth Castle sits in the bay of St Aubin, guarding the entrance to St Helier harbour. The latter is an island castle, so when the tide is in, the only way to visit is by amphibious vehicle. Both castles are packed with history and offer guided tours.

Expect warm, sunny days in July, with temperatures in the mid 20s Celsius (high 60s Fahrenheit), although it can rain or be warmer.

Less than an hour from London’s Gatwick Airport, Jersey is perfect for a quick weekend break or a longer stay.

Coralie says, “ For a touch of luxury, stay at the Longueville Manor Hotel, or the Atlantic Hotel, and dine in at least once, as both have superb restaurants.”

York, England

By Natasha from Planes, Trains and Karcz

While a visit to York is idyllic at any time of year, it’s a great places to visit in the UK in July when the city really comes to life. With summer bringing lots of sunshine in this otherwise moody English hotspot, it allows for locals and travelers alike to get outside and breathe in the beauty, history and vibrancy of the city. 

Begin your time here with a walk upon York’s signature medieval stone walls, as doing so serves as a great way to orient yourself and get a sense of the city’s layout. There’s nearly 3.5km of preserved circuit to cover, so you can anticipate spending close to two hours on the route. 

From there, venture through a real-life Diagon Alley (for all those Harry Potter fans out there!). This was named the most picturesque street in all of Britain, with its slouching timber-framed builds dating as far back as the 1300’s.

Consider popping into one of the many pubs along the way – there’s more pubs in York than there are days in a year – so there’ll be no shortage of ones to choose from. Alternatively, stop at the infamous Betty’s Cafe for a traditional high tea, if that’s more up your alley. 

Of course, no trip to York would be complete without exploring York Minster, otherwise known as one of the most beautiful Gothic buildings in the world. The cathedral towers over the remainder of the city. It is well worth climbing if you’re interested in what can only be described as the best view around. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Scotland.

Average high temperatures in July are 68 degrees Fahrenheit with 7 days of rain on average.

You’ll first need to fly into Leeds Bradford Airport and make the approximate 50 minute drive – or the one and a half hour train ride – to York.

Natasha says, “ While there’s virtually an endless list of things to do during your trip to York, opt to stay in one of its equally stunning accommodations such as the chic downtown Hotel Indigo or the rustically styled North Star Club glamping facility nearby.”

Camber Sands, England

By Shobha from Epic England Travel

Camber Sands is a wide stretch of sandy beach in East Sussex located on the southeast corner of England. It is a fantastic beach destination to enjoy in July in the UK.

There are plenty of things to do in Camber Sands for beach lovers. The sand is super soft and great for sand castle building. You can also explore the rock pools and the sand dune system. There is a circular walk from Camber Sands to Rye which is 4 miles away.

Rye, itself, is a picture-perfect town of cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. There are great pubs, antique stores and little boutiques scattered around the little side streets. These side streets and the town’s location near the sea means that there is a rich history of smuggling in the area. You can visit the  Rye Castle Museum  and a National Trust property where the famous American writer, Henry James lived.

According to weather experts, Sussex is the sunniest county in the United Kingdom! So visiting Camber Sands in July is a good bet for sunshine. Average highs in July are 68 degree Fahrenheit with 6 days of rain. The water is pretty cold and you would be most comfortable in a wet suit if you are planning on swimming.

The nearest international airport would be Gatwick International Airport. You can actually take a train from Gatwick to Camber Sands which passes through Eastbourne and Rye. The trip takes about an hour and a half by train and by car.

Shobha says, “There is a Parkdean Resorts holiday park which is about a half mile from Camber Sands. Accommodation is in caravans or in cottages of various standards of comfort.

In nearby Rye, more upscale accommodation would be at Mermaid Inn, a fantastic 15th century hotel set over a popular pub.

We, ourselves, rented one of the former Coastguards Cottages at the Jurys Gap section of Camber Sands. These cottages are now privately owned and the views are fantastic. The vacation house was a charming place to stay within a few minutes walk to the beach and perfect for families. It had lots of character but with all the modern amenities and beautifully furnished.”

Isle of Angelsey

By Shireen Ahmed from The Happy Days Travels

Just off the coast of North Wales, in the Irish Sea, is a place you must visit in the UK called the Isle of Anglesey. Connected only by the Menai Strait Suspension Bridge, this island is for adventurers, historians, cuisine-seekers and nature-enthusiast alike with stunning sunsets , medieval castles, unique wildlife and delicious seafood restaurants. It is one of the best summer vacations in the United Kingdom when the weather is at its best.

Some of the best things to do on the island include boat trips for spotting seals, hiking to the many enchanting lighthouses at various points around the peninsula, and visiting Llanfairpwll (shortened version) train station for a picture with the longest town name in the UK –  find out how to find the town here  and see if you can pronounce the 52 letter word!

Summer is the best time to visit to catch gorgeous sunsets and visiting towns like Holyhead are great for views and beaches. Even if it rains, there are lots of things to do including finding a cosy restaurant to warm up with a locally-sourced seafood chowder.

Average highs in July is 67 degree Fahrenheit with 7 days of rain on average.

Anglesey has a domestic airport where you can fly from other UK airports or alternatively, it is just an hour’s drive from the city of Liverpool. It is around 4 hours from Wales’s capital city, Cardiff.

Shireen says, “ Find accommodation in a hotspot such as Beaumaris. There is lots to explore nearby such as crabbing at the pier, the castle and shopping on old shopping streets. It also works well as a base for exploring the rest of Anglesey. I stayed at Castle Court and can recommend it for location, cleanliness and free breakfast!”

London, England

By Katja from Globetotting

It goes without saying that one of the best cities for summer holidays in the United Kingdom is London. Britain’s capital city is jam-packed with history, colour, culture, food and so much more. It’s a guaranteed highlight on any British itinerary.

In fact, your only trouble will be choosing what to see while you’re there. Some of London’s most famous sights include Buckingham Palace, home to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. For true pomp and ceremony, time your visit to the palace so that you can watch the Changing of the Guard.

Continuing with the Royal theme, make time to visit the Tower of London, the 900-year-old castle that once held many famous (and infamous) prisoners. It is now home to the Crown Jewels. Of London’s many, many museums you should visit, make sure set aside some time for the fabulous Natural History Museum, one of the many  free things to do in London .

The UK is famous for its ever-changing, unreliable weather and London is no different. Pack layers and always carry a raincoat and umbrella. However, in July, you can expect average highs in the 70s Fahrenheit with the possibility of reaching the low 80s.

London is home to six airports: Heathrow, Gatwick, Stanstead, Luton, City, and Southend, all of which offer some form of public transportation to the center. If you have a choice, try to coordinate it with the location of your accommodation. Make sure you review other important London travel tips before you arrive.

If you are looking for reasonably priced accommodation with a fantastic location near shopping on Oxford Street, with free afternoon hors d’oeuvres, dessert, beer and wine, then consider the Z Hotel At Gloucester Place.

Whitby, England

By Lavina from Continent Hop

Most people tend to visit Cornwall , Dorset and London on a trip to England. However, places like Whitby in the north of England are quite special as the accent is slightly different, and the culture and tradition varies as well. Whitby possibly has the best fish and chips in the country as it is surrounded by fresh seafood. However, its’ claim to fame is Count Dracula as Bram Stoker wrote most of his novel there.

In addition to enjoying a walk at the beach, there’s quite a few things that you can do in July at this beautiful seaside town in Great Britain. Whitby Abbey, once a Christian monastery converted into a Benedictine abbey, is the most popular. It is quite well preserved and sits perched on a cliff overlooking the city.

Consider trying the 199 Whitby Abbey steps. Originally built in wood in 1340, these steps are thought to have been used as a test of Christian faith to those who wished to worship in St Mary’s Church, found at the top. The climber also gets fabulous views of the harbour below.

Weather tends to be bright and sunny, however sometimes it can be cloudy with a few spells of rain. Average highs in July are around 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

Teesside international airport (previously Durham) is the closest airport however the town is also well connected by trains.

Lavina says, “ The Resolution hotel is one of the top recommended hotels to stay in Whitby.”

Isle of Islay, Scotland

Ela & Beata from Stunning Outdoors

Isle of Islay , the southern-most island of Inner Hebrides in Scotland, is one of the best spots in the UK for summer getaways. When many places across Great Britain become busy with summer holidays , Islay does not as it is a bit off the radar. It doesn’t have the hype of Isle of Skye and is more difficult to reach than Isle of Arran.

Islay is known as “whisky island”. Start at Port Ellen for a whisky themed tour and head to one of the nine world class Islay distilleries. Each distillery offers something unique, starting with the taste of its whisky and then, touring its facilities.

If you love nature, there are many beautiful beaches (like Machir Bay), stunning coastal trails and lovely rural roads for cyclists. In addition, it is a paradise for wildlife, in particular seals, wild geese and other migrating birds. Visit Loch Gruinart Nature Reserve, home to almost fifty thousand wild geese, to observe the wildlife.

Like many Scottish islands, Islay enjoys temperature around 61F or 16C in July, with almost 17hrs of daylight (daylight, not sunshine!). July is relatively dry, with around 3″ or 77.5mm of rain.

To get to Islay, it is best to fly to Glasgow, and either take a domestic flight to Islay or a bus to Kennacraig, followed by a 2 hrs ferry journey. Alternatively drive from Glasgow to Kennacraig, which in summer could take up to 3hrs.

Ela & Beata say, “Both Glenegedale House, located between Port Ellen or Bowmore, and Port Charlotte Hotel, located in Port Charlotte, are good options.”

Liverpool, England

By Dan from Urban Abroad

Liverpool is not usually the first city that comes to mind when deciding on the best summer trips in the United Kingdom, but there any many reasons why it is worth checking out.

Liverpool is not only the home to the legendary music band, the Beatles, but it’s also where you can visit the ‘Beatles story’, a museum located in the city centre. At this permanent exhibition, you walk through lifelike sets that are designed to take you on the Beatle’s musical journey.

From there, you can see the Liver building which is an iconic landmark known for its appearance in the film, Batman. It stands at over 320 feet tall (98.2 m) and has two fabled Liver Birds that watch over the city and the docks.

No trip to Liverpool would be complete without a trip to Royal Albert Docks, one of the best  free things to do in Liverpool . These historical dockyards have been transformed into the social center of the city with fantastic restaurants like Smugglers Cove and the famous Tate Liverpool art gallery.

The summer season is by far the best time to visit Liverpool for walking around the city centre and making the most of the outdoors. Average highs are 67F but can reach mid 70s on a warm day. There are 8 days with some rain.

You can fly into Liverpool (John Lennon Airport) and easily get the train to the city centre. If you are travelling from the airport by car, it takes around 30 minutes.

Dan says, “ Hotel Pullman is a great place to stay for sea views and to get easy access to the city center.”

Durdle Door, England

By Theo from Waffles And Lamingtons

When British summers are in full swing, it’s time to act as a local and flock to one of the countries many coastlines. If you’re lucky enough to be in the south of England, where the weather tends to be at the countries best, then you’re in for a treat. Well-noted as a true area of natural beauty, Durdle Door, the poster image of the Jurassic Coast , is without doubt one of the best places in Great Britain in July.

While the main thing to do at Durdle Door is to marvel at the natural arch from the comfort of your towel, there are fortunately a bunch of other activities to keep you busy.

Take a short walk over the hill to Lulworth Cove to enjoy its fascinating shape and bright blue water. Afterwards, head over to the town which offers a wonderful selection of pubs to settle in for a traditional British lunch. After settling your hunger, try a bit more activity.

Consider hiking along the coastal cliffs ticking off the several peaks that provide splendid views over the famous white limestone cliffs. Alternatively, hire a paddle board and view these cliffs from a different perspective. Either way, you’re in for magnificent views.

The average high temperature at Durdle Door is 69 degree Fahrenheit. There is approximately 7 days of rain during the month, but the rainfall tends to be short.

Bournemouth is the closest international airport with only a 45 minute drive to Durdle Door. Alternatively, fly into any airport in London and drive 3 hours.

Theo says, “ For a truly local spot looking right onto the picturesque Durdle Door, then stay at the ‘Water Sky at Durdle Door’. It’ll be hard to beat the views anywhere along the Jurassic Coast in the counties of Dorset and Devon.” 

Holy Island of Lindisfarne, England

By Tracy from Travels In Time

There are some wonderful places to visit and  stay on the Northumberland Coast  including many seaside towns and fishing villages but one of the most special is the Holy Island of Lindisfarne (or Holy Island as it is simply called by locals).

Lindisfarne is recognised as one of the earliest Christian sites in England. Between 710 and 725, monks on the island produced the Lindisfarne Gospels, which are considered to be among the most important medieval works of art.

Although Holy Island is only three miles long, one and a half miles wide and has a population of less than three hundred, it welcomes over five hundred thousand visitors annually.

Holy Island is a tidal island which means it can only be reached during times of low tide. It is therefore important to check the tides before planning a visit.

There are a number of attractions to visit on the island. At Lindisfarne Priory and Museum learn the history of the priory and St Cuthbert before heading into the Priory Museum. There are examples of Anglo Saxon stonework on show.

Another must see on the island is Lindisfarne Castle which was built in 1550. The castle offers stunning views over the Northumberland Coast towards Bamburgh Castle and the Farne Islands. Although converted into a private holiday home in the early 20th century the castle now belongs to the National Trust.

Located on the north east coast does mean that the island gets its fair share of wind and rain. In July average temperatures are around 17 degrees (low 60s F) but it can also be rainy (with an average 24 days of rain) so it pays to prepare ahead. On hot summer days a cool sea fret can also affect the coastline which can drop temperatures quite considerably too.

Holy Island can be reached from either Newcastle or Edinburgh International Airports. Drive time from Newcastle is around 1 hour and 1 hour 30 minutes from Edinburgh.

Tracy says, “ If you plan to stay on Holy Island for a night or two to relax and enjoy the island there are limited options – The Manor House or the Crown and Anchor Inn – so do book in advance.

Haworth Village, England

By Tammy from Travelling Tam

Haworth is a romantic stone village near Bradford in West Yorkshire, most famous for being home to the literary siblings the Bronte Sisters. They took much inspiration for their novels from the surrounding wild landscape.

One of the most popular things to do in  Haworth during a day trip  (or longer) is to uncover the lives of the fascinating sisters at the Bronte Parsonage Museum where the family lived and penned many of their works. The museum houses many personal belongings, first edition books and even the desk where many of their novels were written. Next door is the St Michael and All Angels Church where the Bronte family is buried.

Aside from wandering the cobbled streets and fantastic cute shops in Haworth, you can also get some fresh air by walking to the Bronte Waterfalls. You can do this in around 2 hours. You can also take a longer circular route encompassing other nearby landmarks such as Bronte Bridge and Little Laithe Reservoir.

In winter, the wind-swept moorland scenery and stone houses are atmospheric. However, it’s in the summer when the green leafiness of the trees and bright sunshine really show off Haworth at its best.

The area is exposed and often chilly but July is the best time for great weather. You’ll get a lower chance of rain (only 10 days) and highs in the low 70s.

The nearest airport is Leeds Bradford about 40 minutes away. You will need to hire a car and drive to Haworth village.

Tamara says, “Haworth can get busy with families during the school holidays, so it is best to go at the beginning of July if possible.

There are an abundance of cute B&B’s and hotels in Haworth. It is well worth staying for at least a weekend to absorb the charming nature of the town. Every building is historic but Ashmont Country House, with its stunning English country gardens, will truly make you feel like you’re living in the pages of a Wuthering Heights novel.”

Cromer, England

By Izzy & Phil from The Gap Decaders

Cromer is a traditional seaside town on the beautiful  North Norfolk Coast . Surrounded by an area of outstanding natural beauty and enjoying a long sandy stretch of beach, Cromer is a great family holiday destination. It is only one of the best beach vacation destinations to visit in the UK in July.

One of the best things to do in Cromer is hang out at the blue flag beach. Safe for kids, the beach is popular for swimming and surfing, and there’s always lots going on along the sands. Kids will love beach cricket or volleyball, building sand-castles and even rock pooling when the tide is out. If the sunshine lets you down, it’s a the perfect spot for flying a kite! 

The beach is dominated by the Cromer Pier, a beautiful Victorian wrought iron structure. You can catch a show at the pier end theatre, visit the fascinating RNLI lifeboat station, and my favourite, go crabbing. The Cromer Crab (it’s actually a brown crab!) is abundant in the waters of the coast here. With a locally bought line, a bit of bait (they like bacon, who knew?) and a bucket, you’ll have a whole crab menagerie in just a few hours!

Once you’ve caught your crabs (and thrown back, of course), you can head into town for a taste of the sweet fleshy meat. It is dressed in local cafes and restaurants and traditionally served with a simple salad. 

Afterwards, take a wander along the promenade to enjoy Cromer’s collection of colourful wooden beach huts on the east side of the beach. They can be rented on a weekly basis. At the far end of the huts, you’ll find on the far side of the sea wall Banksy’s art called “Cromer Crabs”. Look carefully though, it’s really quite small! 

If you enjoy a longer walk, keep heading east until you reach the lighthouse up on the cliffs of Cromer Ridge. You can take a wander around before heading back into town for a Norfolk cream tea. 

Norfolk is one of the driest counties in England, so the chances are you’ll see quite a bit of sunshine if you visit Norfolk in summer. Average highs are 68 degrees Fahrenheit but temperatures can reach mid 70s.

London Stansted or Norwich airports serve Norfolk, with the drive time being two hours from Stansted and just 30 minutes from Norwich.

Izzy & Phil say, “ One there, it’s a wonderful place for camping, with back to nature Cromer Camping making a great place to pitch your tent.”

The United Kingdom offers an amazing selection of towns, cities, beaches and national parks that are wonderful vacation destinations in July. Whether you prefer the quiet solitude of small towns and hard to reach islands, or you would rather feel the energy of a large city, England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have something for everyone. With some of the best weather all year round, July is the perfect time to plan your next holiday.

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The 9 Best Places to Visit in the UK for Summer

The UK might not be the first place people think of when it comes to summer vacations but it should never be discounted. There are some pretty incredible places to visit in the UK during the summer. From the sunny coast of Cornwall to the dramatic and rugged landscape of Scotland. When it comes to escaping the daily grind, the UK offers some truly spectacular sites you just won’t find anywhere else.

Whether you’re planning a romantic couples retreat, a family adventure holiday, or as a trial run for when you decide to find the cheapest places to live in the UK . The UK offers it all. Although you can visit at any time of the year, we personally recommend the summer as it truly showcases just how beautiful this country can be. 

We’ve put together a guide to nine of the best places to visit in the UK for summer and what you can expect to find in each place. Expect history, culture, beaches, and delicious traditional food.

Table of Contents

Those that have visited Cornwall before will agree that it’s hard not to fall in love with its dramatic coastline, captivating fishing harbors, spectacular beaches, epic surf, and endless amounts of cream teas. It’s a part of England where you can indulge your inner water lover, walker, or foodie. 

Located in the west of Great Britain, almost completely surrounded by sea, Cornwall has almost 300 miles of coastline. This is one of the best places to visit in the UK summer simply for the fact that there is so much here to surprise you. From the marvelous Eden project to the natural wonders of the Lost Gardens of Heligan. 

For outdoor lovers, there are plenty of bike routes and walking routes to explore. For the foodies, there’s a multitude of award-winning restaurants to delight your taste buds. And for the history buffs, there’s a tremendous amount of history and heritage across many Cornwall villages. 

You won’t need to visit the Med once you’ve taken a trip to Cornwall as its stunning beaches and glorious weather will captivate your heart. It’s the one place in the UK where you won’t really feel like you are in the UK. The picturesque harbor villages of St Ives and Padstow are perfect for a real cornish feel and the larger towns of Newquay and Falmouth are more tourist orientated and are often very popular with families.

Devon is often referred to as Mother Nature’s playground due to its sweeping moors and dramatic coastal cliffs. Just like its neighbor Cornwall, Devon has so much to offer visitors. Whether you’re searching for adventure, culture, history, or some simple R&R, Devon has it all. Stretching from Ilfracombe in the North to Plymouth in the South, you’ll find numerous sandy beaches, cliffside restaurants, and some perfect waves for a surf.

Encompassing Dartmoor National Park and the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty you’ll find copious amounts of walking trails, biking trails, wildlife, fauna, and so much more. It offers the best of both worlds, providing a great seaside family holiday destination or a countryside retreat. 

Due to its diverse landscape Devon’s restaurants, hotels, cafes, and tearooms have menus packed with locally sourced, fresh, seasonal food and drink. Offering some truly sensational fish and chips as well as other seafood dishes and lavish cream teas – it’s a foodies destination for sure. One that might just rival that of London . 

It may come as a surprise to know that the Devonshire coast enjoys more hours of sunshine than anywhere else on the British Mainland. This is why it makes our list of the best places to visit in the UK for summer. Taking a ride on the Lynton and Lynmouth Funicular Railway is a must as is feeling the sand between your toes at the award-winning sands of Woolacombe Beach.

Home to the iconic Jurassic coast and the infamous Durdle Door, Dorset boasts some truly incredible coast and countryside. There really is no bad time to visit but to make the most of the outdoor wonders this part of England has to offer you’ll want to visit in the summer. From spring breaks, summer vacations, dog-friendly getaways, and family getaways you’ll find it all here. 

Stretching from Bournemouth in the South East to Lyme Regis in the West, Dorset has a wide expanse of coastline and rolling hills. While spring brings with it some beautiful new foliage and cute baby animals, the summer brings good weather and mass crowds. The summer also sees the Bournemouth Air Festival bring crowds from miles around as they watch the Red Arrows, wing walkers, Chinnock’s, typhoons, and more fly overhead, giving a show to awe-struck onlookers. It really is a spectacle you cannot afford to miss. 

One of Dorset’s major draws is the World Heritage Site of Durdle door – a natural limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth. The attraction features a pebble beach and a stunning coastal walk along the South West Coast path. But that’s not all. 

Explore castle ruins, walk along the sandy shores of countless beaches, and marvel at the sight of rare and endangered wildlife in its natural habitat. Camping, hotels, and resorts are in abundance along with shops for some retail therapy. A trip to Dorset will always bring happy memories to you and your family.

Pembrokeshire

The western tip of west Wales is capped off by the UK’s only fully coastal national park: The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. It’s a stunner. White-sand beaches that would look right at home in the Caribbean meet puffin-stalked rocks out at sea, there are quaint Celtic fishing villages with hearty pubs and, inland, forests that roll over soft hills for as far as the eye can see.

The region is split into three main peninsulas. Northern Pembrokeshire is rugged and wild, with high cliffs and bald fells. It comes together in the ancient pilgrimage town of St David’s, where you can visit a grand cathedral and get lost in a maze-like old town laden with chocolatiers and craft beer. Middle Pembrokeshire finishes at the glorious but remote sands of Marloes. It’s a quieter area, with a few campsites and small towns like Little Haven.

The best for families and summer trips is probably the slightly-busier south Pembrokeshire peninsula. That begins in the gorgeous resort of Tenby, where you’ll see ice-cream-colored cottages fringing the docks. Head out from there to find handsome bays like Barafundle and the lily ponds of Bosherston.

From wildflower meadows, ancient wells, jaw-dropping gorges, lush green spaces and woodlands, and shimmering lakes, Somerset will leave you enchanted by its beauty. Somerset includes the historic city of Bath, the seaside resort town of Weston Supermere, and the coastal town of Minehead. 

Whenever someone says Somerset they adopt a semi-pirate accent and we’ll bet that you’ll be repeating it over and over to the annoyance of your fellow friends, family members, and travelers. The name itself should be reason enough to visit, that and the fact its one of the warmest and sunniest places in the UK. 

With Exmoor National Park, Cheddar Gorge, Glastonbury festival, and some of England’s loveliest beaches, you’ll be spoilt for choice of things to do and places to see. If you’re looking for a good nightout, Bath is the place to go. Exploring the beautiful countryside in Somerset is a must, with plenty of caves, underground rivers, various hills, and more, so be sure to bring your walking boots.

Lake District

An outdoor adventurer’s paradise, the Lake District is one of the first places, besides London,  people think of for a British vacation. With rolling green hills, vast expanses of lakes, and stunning views, it’s no wonder travelers vote this as one of the best places to visit in the UK for summer. Whether it’s your first time or 50th time, the Lake District keeps on giving. 

Most travelers advise that three to five days in the Lake District is the optimal amount of time to explore some of its many natural wonders, however, you can also spend a lot longer here without getting bored. There’s plenty of accommodation to suit every type of visitor, whether you’re looking for a hot tub getaway, a romantic break, or even a dog-friendly cabin with lakeside views. 

Cumbria is England’s nature playground with an inexhaustible list of experiences for all ages and interests. One day you could be flying through Grizedale Forest on a zip-wire and paddleboarding on Lake Windermere. Another day you could be fell walking or scaling some rocks followed by playing a round of golf or wild swimming in crystal clear waters. Those that live in the Lake District are proud of their world-class cultural heritage including world-renowned artists, poets, and writers.

Northumberland

Whether it’s your first trip or you’ve visited before, Northumberland offers you big adventures, endless possibilities, and breathtaking scenery. Visit barely touched beaches, romantic castle ruins, quaint market towns, and fishing villages as well as lush green forests. Its coastline is just as rugged as its mainland. 

Sitting on the Scottish Border means you’re not restricted to staying solely within England. So why not make a day of it and cross the border for a day in Edinburgh? It’s only a two-hour drive. From Alnwick Castle to Bamburgh Castle, from Northumberland National Park to bird watching on Farne Islands, and everything in between. 

For any Harry Potter fans, you’ll love the village of Alnwick where you can walk in the steps of Harry, Hermione, and Ron at The Outer Bailey where they learned to fly their broomsticks and play quidditch. Or take a walk around Bamburgh Castle, one of England’s finest, and discover its deep and fascinating history.

A firm favorite among many is star gazing and since the night skies in Northumberland Dark Sky Park are darker than anywhere else in the UK, you can understand why others love it. Due to the lack of night pollution, it’s an amazing place to take that stary nighttime photograph you’ve been trying to take for years. The park is also home to Kielder Observatory where you can participate in numerous stargazing events held there.

North Wales

North Wales is a majorly popular summer destination. Close enough to the big cities of Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool to make it a quick drive across the English border for millions of domestic travelers, it’s been something of a vacation hub for families for since the 1950s. Resort towns like Rhyll and Llandudno are testament to that. They have Victorian buildings lining their foreshore and vintage attractions like the Great Orme and its cable car.

But there’s more to just North Wales than cotton candy on the seafront. There are soaring peaks here – the highest in all of Wales. Drive down through the Snowdonia National Park and you’ll be faced with the sleeping summits of Glyder Fawr and the Crib Goch, all watched over by Yr Wyddfa, the highest of all. Beneath them are charming glamping sites with hot tubs and mythical villages like lovely Beddgelert.

If you manage to make it out to the western coast of North Wales, then there are more treats. Hit the mighty castle at Harlech to channel your inner Norman invader. Skirt down the Llŷn Peninsula to find dune-backed beaches like Pwllheli. Cross to Anglesey to witness the Holyhead writhed in salt mists and waves.

Scottish Highlands

One of the best places to visit in the UK for the summer are the Scottish Highlands . They’re the Scotland of your imagination and house the Cairngorms, Britain’s largest National Park; Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountains; and Loch Ness, one of Britain’s most famous lakes and the birthplace of the mythical Loch Ness monster. 

This vast and sparsely populated UK vacation destination is known for its remarkable castles, friendly locals, traditional Scottish clan history, and whiskey. If you love walking and whisky, then you’re in for a real treat as it not only offers truly breathtaking scenery but it also offers tours around some of the world’s best malt and whiskey factories. 

Hop over to the Isle of Skye for everything from wildlife viewing to fossil discovery. It sits on the northwest of the Scottish Highlands and is connected to the mainland of Scotland by a bridge. It’s the largest of the Inner Hebrides and has a number of small villages scattered throughout the peninsulas. The scenery across the Isle is some of the most awe-inspiring scenery around and will leave a permanent impression on your heart. 

If you’re looking for a little less action, take a look at the Fairy Pools where you can swim in beautiful blue waters under the cascading falls, but be warned it will be a dip that’s far from warm. The Scottish Highlands are filled to the brim with adventure, so be sure to book a summer vacation here.

The best places to visit in the UK for summer – our conclusion

There are plenty of beaches and coastal destinations on our list of the best places to visit in the UK for summer, ranging from the sunny shores of southern Dorset to the wave-lashed edges of West Wales. You’re not guaranteed to have beach weather – this is Britain, remember? However, you are guaranteed some seriously jaw-dropping natural landscapes, from white-sand bays to craggy cliff scapes. Venture inland and the mountain regions really come into their own during the warmer months. Trails open and the likes of the Cairngorms in the Scottish Highlands and the Lake District over in England really shine at their best.

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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written by Annie Warren

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Find your great escape a bit closer to home and make the most of your staycation this summer, with our enticing round-up of the best things to do in the UK during summer.

1. Immerse yourself in history

2. get lost in nature, 3. encounter the local wildlife, 4. stretch your legs, 5. brave the water, 6. sample british grapes, 7. stuff yourself with seafood, 8. take the train - one of the unique things to do in the uk during summer, 9. hit up music festivals, 10. have a family day off, 11. catch some sun.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for travelling the world.

Travel ideas for Ireland, created by local experts

Fascinating Ireland & North Ireland

Ireland is one of the most popular destinations for tourists: its rich cultural heritage, the beautiful landscapes and the laid-back lifestyle attract many travelers. Visit the famous Giant's causeway, fascinating Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry and many more highlights.

Spectacular Ireland

This itinerary will give you a chance to discover the most spectacular places in Ireland within eight days. Visit the Killarney National Park and the South West Coast of Ireland. Travel back in time during your visit on the Aran Islands and cross the region of Connemara.

Game of Thrones – Northern Ireland

The Seven Kingdoms await you in this Game of Thrones adventure. The incredible landscapes of Northern Ireland make up an enchanting array of fortresses, heart-stopping cliffs and countless small villages steeped in history. A trip to the universe of Game of Thrones is about to begin!

Pearls of Ireland: Cliffs of Moher, Galway and the Burren National Park

Take some time off with your family and friends and discover the most spectacular places that Ireland has to offer. In addition, we recommend you pay for the beautiful city of Dublin a visit.

The West Coast and Cliffs of Moher

This itinerary discovers the most authentic parts of the Emerald Isle. The spectacular Cliffs of Moher on the west coast, the many castles and fortresses in the south, together with the breathtaking landscapes of the Wicklow Mountains National Park presents the perfect backdrop to a trip.

One of the best things to do in the UK during summer for history buffs is a visit to Warwick Castle. This massive medieval fortress has lavish royal chambers and a tower plucked straight from a fairy tale, set against 690 acres of immaculate gardens.

Venture underground to the dungeon and torture chamber if you dare, brought to life by devilish actors – not to mention gallons of fake blood.

Considerably less gory is the Beamish open-air museum in County Durham , which showcases the years between 1825 and 1913 with painstakingly re-created streets and costumed guides driving the steam trains and serving in the sweet shop.

Changing tack again, the Birmingham back-to-backs have been carefully restored to give a fascinating insight into the industrial boom that gripped the city in the nineteenth century. Here, a guided tour wends its way through four homes full of anecdotal titbits about the inhabitants of these hastily-erected, overcrowded dwellings.

Explore the historical heritage is one of the best to do in the UK during summer /Shutterstock

You could spend hours wandering Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire . Here you can stroll the excavated Tudor cloisters and luxuriate in the zen-like calm of the hothouse, constructed from an ancient courtyard shrouded in glass and housing magnolias, orchids and palms that reach the roof.

Meanwhile, few places in Britain juxtapose so well the destructive impulses of man and the enduring richness of nature as Orford Ness Nature Reserve in Suffolk. This park was once used to conceal Britain’s darkest military secrets. Yet amid the dystopic landscape of marshes and the huddle of abandoned buildings that flank the airfield, nature thrives undisturbed. The reserve now fulfils a crucial conservation role.

For sheer otherworldliness, though, the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland with its 37,000 black basalt columns is unrivalled, each polygon the result of a subterranean explosion some sixty million years ago. This incredible scene attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, meaning the site can get crushingly busy. You'd do well to visit as early (or as late) in the day as you can.

This tailor-made trip to Scotland's wildest natural scenery is a breath of fresh air and perfect to explore the most enchanting landscapes of the Highlands. This trip will introduce you to the wildest landscapes of Scotland, its fast-paced history and its amazing traditions.

Pyg track leading to the Snowdon summit © Tamas Beck/Shutterstock

For a brush with creatures great and small, take a boat tour around the craggy archipelago of the Farne Islands. You’ll hear it before you see it. The cacophonous din of the 100,000 seabirds that nest here each year, whose ranks include puffins, guillemots, cormorants, shags and oystercatchers.

Another brilliant place from which to spot some animal antics is the ingeniously concealed hide at Devon Badger Watch. Here you'll be offered a rare chance to observe these reclusive mammals as they play. The woodland is home to woodmice, woodpeckers and tawny owls, so keep your eyes peeled!

For beasts of more exotic nature, the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust uses Jersey Zoo to provide a window into its global conservation work. The trust showcases some of the planet’s most at-risk species in habitats ranging from Madagascan dry forest to the Discovery Desert.

Atlantic Puffin, Fratercula arctica, Skomer Island, Pembrokeshire, West Wales © Shutterstock

The opportunities for walking in the UK are endless! Head to Malham in the Yorkshire Dales . Here you can amble through the wooded dell of Janet’s Foss, rich with the scent of wild garlic, to Gordale Scar, a deep ravine that requires a head for heights.

If you’re feeling energetic, one of the best things to do in the UK during summer is to clamber up to Malham Cove. Here you will be rewarded with magnificent views over the Dales. A further squelchy trek across the moorland beyond leads to England’s highest lake, Malham Tarn.

Another climb that is well worth the effort is the ice-age relic of Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh . The vistas from up here are intoxicating, arcing across Edinburgh’s genteel cobbles and the Forth estuary to Fife.

Less of a scramble but no less scenic is the Cotswold Way National Trail, dotted with a string of chocolate box villages and towns . The Trail makes for a gentle countryside walk with scenic picnic spots and plenty of pubs.

Visit two traditional capitals, London and Edinburgh, and enjoy a trek through the Loch Lomond national park. This tailor-made walking trip will let you discover peaceful Scottish islands on foot, with several days of detailed walking tours included.

Cityscape of Edinburgh Arthur's Seat © S-F/Shutterstock

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The timeless landscape of the Norfolk Broads is the perfect place to mess about in a boat. You don’t need any experience – at least if you opt for an engine rather than a sail. Or better yet, get out in a canoe and explore the smaller waterways. If you’d prefer to be in the water rather than on it, tarn-swimming in Snowdonia National Park might be for you; tarns are blue-green glacial lakes formed over 10,000 years ago.

It’s not just the cold water that’s breathtaking – hiking through the mountainscape is truly remarkable. However, be aware that access to isolated spots can require hours of walking on unmarked tracks.

City-dwellers will be pleased to know that there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor dips closer to home. The cherished British tradition of the lido has seen a resurgence, with faded Art Deco and modest community pools alike reopening up and down the country.

London is awash with charming swimming holes including those in Charlton, Brockwell and Parliament Hill, while outside the capital some of the most spectacular urban lidos are found in Cheltenham, Bristol and Plymouth.

Planning a trip to London? Don't miss our experts' pick of the best luxury hotels in the city .

A steam train passes the Settle to Carlisle railway north of Ribble Junction © Karl Weller/Shutterstock

Looking for more relaxed things to do in the UK during summer? The UK may not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of wine tasting, but in fact, the country now produces wines to rival even the most established competitors. There are over four hundred vineyards in England, many of which are open for tours and tastings.

The best of the bunch includes Kent’s oldest commercial vineyard at Biddenden, a family-run concern producing wines from ten varieties of grape. Also of note is Camel Valley in Cornwall, set up by an ex-RAF pilot and his wife. Meander through the vineyards, join a tour around neat rows of beautifully pruned vines, take part in a tasting or sit on the terrace and sip at your leisure. Roll over Bordeaux, it’s time to celebrate the English grape!

It’s never too late to develop a taste for seafood, and what better place than at the Oyster Festival in Whitstable this August? As well as bivalves you can expect to find a giant food fair, impromptu performance art, and a crab-catching competition for the kids. Or try to win the local oyster-eating contest, where iron-stomached participants race to down four oysters and half a pint of stout.

If that all sounds a bit raucous, there remain few places more idyllic than the quay at Padstow to tuck into a mountainous portion of fish and chips.

With the ocean so close, it’s little surprise that seafood is the speciality in this Cornish town. In fact, your fish might have been caught just hours before by the boats in view.

One of the best things to do in the UK during summer is to indulge in some delicious local seafood © Shutterstock

Step back in time at the Bluebell Railway in Sussex, which has one of the finest collections of vintage steam locomotives and carriages still in service. Treat yourself to the luxuries of a bygone era in the burnished lounge car of First Class. Or, enjoy the Railway’s annual calendar of platform Punch and Judy shows, Victorian picnics, brass bands and food festivals.

Another option for locomotive lovers is England’s most scenic railway, the Settle to Carlisle line, which runs from the Yorkshire Dales almost to the Irish Sea via the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct. You’ll feel like you’re flying as rivers and roads meander far below.

In stark contrast with the shining beauty of the countryside is the grim history of the railway, which was built by an army of six thousand navvies. Many were killed by accident, disease or exposure, and were buried along the route in unmarked graves.

Strathspey Railway in Scotland © Shutterstock

Music lovers will be stunned by the number of things to do in the UK during summer.

Glastonbury 's unrivalled festival has delighted audiences for decades and is the largest and most well-organised festival in England . Much more than just a music festival, large parts of the sprawling site are given over to themed “lifestyle” areas. Bands cover all musical spectrums, from up-and-coming indie groups to international superstars. Recent headliners have included the Foo Fighters, Radiohead and Ed Sheeran.

Classical music lovers will be interested in visiting Montgomeryshire in Wales . Here in the town of Newton, Gregynog Hall hosts the annual Gregynog Music Festival. This is a high-class feast of classical music.

And if your summer travel itinerary includes a visit to Scotland , don't miss the Mull of Kintyre Music Festival , which pulls in some big-name rock bands, plus some good traditional Irish and Scottish ones.

Tents on the Glastonbury music festival campsite © Shutterstock

Sometimes when travelling with children, it's hard to think of something for all the family to enjoy. Luckily, there are plenty of things to do in the UK during summer for family fun .

For example, Preseli Venture in Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire. The enthusiastic team at this outdoor adventure experience have cooked up one of the best family day trips in the UK. And what's better is that is all about getting active, getting wet and getting fully immersed in the natural environment.

Children and adults alike will thoroughly enjoy visiting the Shambala Festival . Pitch your tent, pull on some wellies, don a pair of fluorescent tights, a set of wings and some facial hair, and you're all set for four days of unabashed wackiness at Britain's most family-friendly festival.

Set in a secret location and with a line-up of undisclosed musical acts, Shambala remains small in scale and retains an inclusive ethos that embraces both families and serious partiers. It remains free of corporate sponsorship, and strongly ecologically sound.

Whitesands Bay, Nr St David's, Pembrokeshire, Wales © Peter Moulton/Shutterstock

Although the UK is not renowned for its regularly hot summers, there are a solid amount of sunny days — perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying a variety of outdoor activities.

If you're in search of a beach holiday, one of the best things to do in the UK during the summer is to visit one of the famous coastal destinations. Cornwall , Devon , and Brighton all offer stunning sandy beaches, scenic walks and a variety of water activities.

London , Edinburgh and Glasgow are each in their own right famous for their green parks and gardens. Here, you can take leisurely strolls in the sunshine and have a picnic afterwards.

For a combination of activities and enjoying the warm summer weather, head to one of Britain's beautiful national parks. The Lake District, Snowdonia , the Peak District and Scottish Highlands are just a few examples of the region's spectacular national parks. You can go camping , cycling or just find somewhere to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Brighton's Pavilion © Shutterstock

When you're ready to start planning your summer holiday trip in the UK, the fantastic Rough Guides UK Staycations guidebook series is the perfect place to start.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be .

We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image: St Michael's Mount in Cornwall © Valery Egorov/Shutterstock

Annie Warren is a Midlands-based writer, translator and editor at Rough Guides. Other than the UK, she specialises in writing about France, Italy and Austria. You can find her on Twitter as @notanniewarren or see more of her work at www.annie-warren.com .

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11 best places to visit in the UK in the summer

Ice cream vans, fish and chips on the beach, long walks with the dog and afternoons in the arcade; the British summer is packed full of nostalgia. Our holiday cottages are spread throughout the United Kingdom, from the tip of Scotland to Cornwall’s Land’s End. Whether you’re a beach junkie or a mountain fanatic; a city slicker or an off-the-gridder, we have a cottage to suit you. Get some inspiration for your next holiday with our guide to the best places to visit in the UK over the summer.

1. Lake District

Best for: Iconic mountain views

If you long for green spaces over the summer months, then the Lake District should be at the top of your list. It’s a giant adventure playground that combines awe-inspiring mountain views, lovely chocolate-box villages and wild swimming opportunities in the eponymous lakes. Perfect for both families and active couples alike, it’s a holiday destination that has something for everybody.

Place to stay:   Cherry Trees is an exceptional cottage, sleeping up to ten people, which benefits from stunning views of Lake Windermere.

2. Cornwall

Best for: Golden beaches and (almost) guaranteed sunshine

The coast of Cornwall needs no introduction. With its sheltered harbours, craggy pirate coves and atmospheric inns serving Cornish beers and ciders, the county has an identity beyond the beautiful golden sands. Go surfing, paddleboarding or coasteering by day, and spend the evening eating fresh fish at a local restaurant.

Place to stay: With a balcony that overlooks the crescent beach of Carbis Bay, Harbour View does exactly what it says on the tin.

3. Yorkshire Dales

Best for: Friendly people and gorgeous countryside

Fall in love with God’s Own Country on a holiday to Yorkshire. The best time to visit is summertime when you’ll find the market towns coming to life and the hillside dappled in sunlight. The Yorkshire Dales National Park is home to an array of old ruined abbeys, gorgeous villages and a landscape of rolling farmland.

Place to stay: The grade-II listed Monks Cottage is ideal for a romantic couple’s getaway, with a history that dates back to the 13th Century.

4. Northumberland

Best for: Discovering hidden gems

Northumberland has been slowly growing in renown as a holiday hotspot of choice, and with good reason. It not only hosts a coastline packed with magnificent castle ruins but is also home to a Dark Sky reserve at Kielder, one of the UK’s best bookshops at Alnwick’s Barter Books, and heaps of Roman history along Hadrian’s Wall.

Place to stay: Glanton is a secluded log cabin that offers couples the chance for a remote holiday, yet still close enough to seaside towns for ice cream on the beach.

5. Pembrokeshire

Best for: Getting active along the coast

The beaches of Pembrokeshire are perfect for active holidays, with outdoor shops doing a roaring trade in surfboard and paddleboard rentals, and the coastline offering spectacular walks. With secluded coves and wild swimming spots, the county is similar in looks to Cornwall but without all the crowds. 

Place to stay: The charming and traditional Fisherman’s Cottage is perfect for small families, with outdoor barbecue facilities, an open fire and sandy beaches close by.

6. North Norfolk Coast

Best for: Wildlife and stately homes

The North Norfolk Coast is beloved by bird-watchers, with salt marshes and chalkland providing perfect wild habitats. Wells-Next-The-Sea or Cromer are great bases to explore Norfolk’s sand dunes and seaside spots. Large stately homes such as palatial Sandringham and Holkham Hall are just a short drive away too.

Place to stay: This Log Cabin in Norfolk is outstanding, with room for 10 people, an immaculate open plan living space and a short walk to the beach at Mundesley.

7. Scottish Highlands

Best for: Going completely off the grid

A holiday to the Scottish Highlands will whisk you away to blissful solitude. From the Isle of Skye to Loch Lomond, the region is packed full of epic scenery and the chance to escape the crowds. Take a day trip to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, not only an incredible feat of engineering but also a famous Harry Potter filming location. Or take your four-legged friend to one of our dog-friendly cottages, and enjoy the great outdoors.

Place to stay: Relax your mind with a spot of forest bathing at Dunaivon Cottage , a traditional cottage set in beautiful woodland near the seaside village of Rhu.

Best for: Fossil-hunting and unusual beaches

The image of Durdle Door and its gorgeous crescent beach is synonymous with Dorset . The Jurassic Coast extends along the county’s shoreline and is the UK’s only natural World Heritage Site, with 185 million years of history behind it. It was here that the fossil expert Mary Anning made her world-famous prehistoric discoveries, and now the beaches both amaze and wow holiday-makers and fossil-hunters alike.

Place to stay:   Apple Tree Lodge is ideal for families seeking comfort and that holiday feeling, with a pizza oven and BBQ facilities on the deck.

9. Snowdonia

Best for: Combining both beaches and mountains

What the Lake District is to England, so Snowdonia is to Wales. Home to the nation’s tallest mountain, Mount Snowdon, and the UK’s longest zip line, along with deep caves, sandy beaches and fascinating mining heritage, the region offers a really diverse and fun holiday. Choose to relax at your holiday cottage or go out exploring the great outdoors; the choice is yours.

Place to stay: The romantic Snowdon Vista Cabin is perched above the treeline of the Beddgelert Forest, with a viewpoint of Snowdon’s rugged peak.

10. Isle of Wight

Best for: Feeling like you’re travelling abroad

Big news - there a way to feel like you’re in a foreign country without even packing a passport. The ferry trip over to the Isle of Wight blows away all the cobwebs of your mundane routine and creates the illusion of a trip to the continent without so much as a . Go to the UK’s oldest amusement park at Blackgang Chine or spend the night stargazing in some of the darkest skies in the UK.

Place to stay: The Hideaway is a gorgeous cottage, built for romance with a private hot tub and beautiful sea views.

11. Peak District

Best for: Cycling and hiking

Despite its incredibly convenient location in the heart of the UK, the Peak District is often overlooked for the popular climes of the Lakes or Snowdonia. But why? With stunning villages such as Bakewell and Hathersage offering amenities and charm, and heather-topped hills giving keen walkers endless views, the county has everything going for it.

Place to stay: The Old Weighbridge is a quirky little cottage offering a slice of cosy railway life in bustling Bakewell.

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Visiting London in Summer (All you need to know)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: May 18, 2024

What to expect when you visit London in Summer– weather, what to see and do, what to pack, and answers to frequently asked questions!

If you want to spend some or all of your summer in London, then you need to get prepared. While you can expect good weather, plus so many summer activities in London, this is the most popular time of the year. So you can also expect it to be very busy!

This ultimate guide to the summer season in London covers all you need to know when planning your trip. From what weather to expect each month, to things to do in summer in London, by the end of this article you’ll be in the know. Covered here are average temperatures, what clothing to pack, hours of daylight, and lots more. 

When deciding on things to do in London in the summer, it’s worth knowing what warm to hot weather actually means in the cool climate of the UK. It’s also helpful to be informed about sunrise and sunset times, so you can plan what to do before and after dark. 

Don’t visit London in the summer before you’ve checked out this complete guide. Continue reading, and you can discover all there is to know about London summer events, weather and more. 

UK Travel Planning Podcast

What to pack, is london worth visiting in summer, what is there to do in london in the summer, what does summer in london feel like, when is the best time to visit london, have a london photo shoot with domi of scalens studio, attend notting hill carnival, take a bike tour, enjoy a food tour of borough market or london pubs, see shakespeare at the globe theatre, book a goboat rental at regent’s canal, enjoy an afternoon tea while you tour london on brigit’s bakery bus, spend time at a rooftop bar, visit london zoo, shop at a market, will you spend summer in london.

Top 5 London Tours in Summer

• 🗝 TOWER OF LONDON – Ceremony of the Keys
• 🪄 HARRY POTTER STUDIOS – Making of Harry Potter Studio + HP walking tour of central London
• ⭐️ PRIVATE TOUR – Discover Real London black cab tour of London
• 🇬🇧 HOP ON HOP OFF BUS – City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• 🥟 FOOD TOUR – Ultimate Food Tour of Borough Market

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Summer in London | What to Expect

The summer weather in London tends to be warm to hot, with slightly cooler nights. On average, there are 7 or 8 days of rainfall. In summer, temperatures are hottest in July and August, and days start to shorten after the summer solstice in late June.  

When summer in London actually is can be decided in two ways. The meteorological calendar says that summer commences on 1st June, and runs until the end of August. Astronomical summer, however, begins with the summer solstice. This happens around 20th June, with summer then lasting until around 20th September. 

To simplify matters, we’re using the meteorological calendar here. This means London’s summer runs throughout June, July and August. Here’s a quick guide to the average summer temperatures in London. 

Monthly temperatures and rainfall

• Average high: 21°C / 70°F
• Average low: 13°C / 55°F
• Average days of rain: 8
• Average high: 23°C / 73°F
• Average low: 15°C / 59°F
• Average days of rain: 7

So what can you expect from summer time in London? This is the driest, warmest time of the year in the UK.

Summer weather in London

Warm to hot weather.

While temperatures in the UK don’t tend to be extreme, summer in the city can at times be stifling. This particularly applies when you’re travelling by tube, as the Victorian underground network can get very stuffy. Drinking lots of chilled water, seeking out shady parks, and dressing in loose, light clothing can all help, if you do experience a heatwave. 

Changeable weather

When planning a summer trip to London, keep in mind that temperatures could be cool to hot, and the weather might be wet or dry. Taking a warmer layer when cooler evening temperatures are forecast is a good idea. It’s also worth carrying a waterproof jacket or travel umbrella at all times. The UK has a very changeable maritime climate, and as any Brit can tell you, local weather forecasts can be notoriously inaccurate. 

Wet weather 

During summer in the capital, you can expect seven to eight days of rain, per month, on average. However, this often occurs as a wet spell lasting for a number of consecutive days. When in London, always be ready for rain!

Daylight hours

Spend summer in London and you can enjoy longer days than in early spring or autumn. By the solstice in late June, the sun rises as early as 4.40 am, and sets at about 9.20 pm. After this, the days start to shorten again. By the end of August, sunrise occurs about 6.10 am, with sunset at around 7.50 pm.

• Sunrise: Between about 04:40 and 06:10
• Sunset: Between about 19:50 and 21:20

On around 20th June, the summer solstice takes place, representing London’s longest day of the year. After this it gets darker in the mornings and evenings, especially by the end of August. 

When packing for London in summer, bring loose t-shirts, shorts and long-legged trousers, a travel umbrella, a warmer layer or two, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes to walk in. 

Warm to hot weather is average when visiting London, England in summer. Some layers and a waterproof jacket are a good idea, though, as it can get chiller, especially in the evening. If the weather is especially hot, cold or wet, though, there are lots of clothing shops and market stalls in London. 

You’re likely to do lots of walking in London. We recommend packing a pair of hiking shoes, trainers or sneakers, or tennis shoes, plus some walking sandals. Waterproof footwear is best, so you won’t have to walk around with wet feet after a rainy spell!

Bring a waterproof jacket for summer in London. Even for summer, a waterproof, windproof jacket with a detachable fleece inner is good, as you could wear the fleece during chiller evenings. By the afternoon, though, it will probably be too warm to wear an extra layer. So check that your daypack does have space for it. 

While a T-shirt might well suffice during the average summer day in London, you might need to add a sweater, cardigan, or hoodie for dinner time onwards. Again, carrying a waterproof also gives you the option of an extra layer if needed. Quick-drying active trousers are recommended jeans, which can stay wet and soggy for ages. Some have zip-off leg sections, for conversion to shorts when it’s hot. 

Accessories

For summer in London, a pair of sunglasses, plus a sun hat or cap are necessary. If you have longer hair, bringing something to tie it back with can also be very helpful when you get too hot! A silk scrunchie worn around the wrist is ideal, for example. Don’t forget a refillable water bottle, too. 

Bring a compact travel umbrella and/or a packable, waterproof jacket, plus a comfortable daypack with all the space you need. A good water bottle is also required, and make sure you have somewhere to store it while on the move. 

Visiting London in Summer | FAQs

Summer in London can be lovely, with warm to hot weather. It’s the ideal time to enjoy the city’s parks, rooftop terraces, and beer gardens. There are also events and festivals held throughout the season. 

Average summer temperature highs are around 21°C to 23°C (70°F to 73°F), with lows between 13°C and 15°C (55°F to 59°F). There’s usually around seven or eight days of rain. 

There is loads to do in London during summer. You can visit all the usual tourist attractions while the weather is warm, and hopefully dry and sunny. Outdoor events and performances are also at their best, from open air theatre to al fresco concerts and festivals in the parks. 

Summer in London brings warm to hot temperatures and longer days. A T-shirt is generally ideal during the day, though you’re likely to need an extra layer for the evenings. 

Some rain is likely, with around seven to eight wet days per month. Average summer temperature lows in London are between 13°C and 15°C (55°F to 59°F), and 21°C to 23°C (70°F to 73°F).

The best times of year to visit London are April to June and September to October. If you must travel in July or August, do expect crowds, plus higher prices. June is the best summer month if you want to travel when it’s a little less busy. 

Top 10 Things to do in London in Summer

There’s plenty to do in London in summer. Here are some ideas for the best places to go during June, July, and August.

Why not organise a photo shoot in London and preserve the memories of your trip forever? We love having photoshoots around the world and Domi of Scalens Studio is our favourite. Not only will you have lots of fun but Domi is fantastic at making you feel relaxed to get the best out of your photoshoot.

Check out some of my favourite images below. Book your photoshoot here and use the code UKTP10 at checkout for 10% discount.

• When: August Bank Holiday weekend
• Where: Westbourne Park, Notting Hill
• Closest tube: Notting Hill Gate

The Notting Hill Carnival is one of the world’s most famous and colourful celebrations. Join around a million attendees over the August bank holiday weekend, a public holiday held at the end of the month. 

The carnival began in 1966, and celebrates all things Caribbean, from flavoursome food to elaborate costumes. 

• When: varies 
• Where: all over London
• Closest tube: varies

There’s no better time to take a bike tour of London than in summer. And arguably, no better way to see the city. 

Book an organised tour rather than renting a cycle to ensure safety, as well as finding your way. Discovering the city as part of a group can also be much more fun! Here are some recommendations – or you can click the links to find more ideas. 

• Click here to book the Royal Express evening bike tour of London
• Click here to book a River Thames Small Group cycle tour
• Click here to book a private family bike tour including child seats

Why not book a food tour and sample some of traditional London foods including sausage rolls, Scotch eggs, fish and chips and more.

We love food tours with Devour and have enjoyed both their Borough Market food tour and their tour of London pubs (with food and drink)

• When: Varies by performance
• Where: Shakespeare’s Globe
• Closest tube: London Bridge

Just as when the playwright was alive, the roof at Shakespeare’s Globe is open air. The show goes on at the Southbank theatre whatever the weather, making summer the best time to book tickets. 

Plays are performed between May and October. You can also book guided tours of the famous venue.

• When: Varies 

The canal running through north London is often overshadowed by the mighty Thames but is a great place to see another side of the city. Taking to the water is also a more peaceful activity where you can escape the summer crowds. 

Discover Paddington Basin, and Camden Lock as well as Regent’s Canal when you book a GoBoat for one, two, or three hours.

Click here to hire a GoBoat at Regent’s Canal

Why not combine a bus tour of London with afternoon tea and book a trip with Brigit’s Bakery Bus! Click here to book!

• When: days and times vary

With the longer evenings and warmer weather, there’s no better time to visit a rooftop bar in London than in summer. Whether you prefer sundowner cocktails or a chilled beer, it’s a great to start the evening or end the day. 

Top picks include elegant Madison’s by St Paul’s Cathedral, the stylish Sky Pod Bar at Sky Garden, smart 12th Knot in Southwark, and glamorous Savage Garden at Tower Hill. 

For Harry Potter fans, London Zoo is a must, as the Reptile House here is the setting for one of the early scenes in the first book and film. It’s a great zoo to visit, anyway, as the oldest scientific zoological facility on earth, and housing around 650 species. 

Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill are close to the zoo, too, if you fancy a stroll. Camden Town is also just a short way along the canalside. 

Click here to book London Zoo tickets

From foodie favourites the Southbank Centre Food Market or nearby Borough Market to Camden, Covent Garden, Portobello Road and Petticoat Lane markets selling all sorts of goods, there are markets to visit all over London. 

Check out this guide to the best London markets !

There’s no doubt that summer is the most popular season for visiting London. In June, July, and August, the capital comes alive with longer days, summer colour, and warmer temperatures. Outdoor activities are now far more realistic than in autumn, winter, and even spring. 

The only downside is the crowds. But with some pre-planning and early starts, it is possible to make the most of seeing the UK capital at its very best. Enjoy!

Read more :

• London in May
• London in June
• London in July

Visiting during the Spring , Fall or Winter ? Check out these guides

• London in August
• London in September
• London in October
• London in November
• London in December
• London in January
• London in February
• London in March
• London in April

London Travel Guide & Itinerary Planner Ebook (+ 4 BONUS ebooks)

New England Wanderlust

Cape Cod , Connecticut , Maine , Massachusetts , New Hampshire , Rhode Island , Summer , Vermont  ·  March 12, 2023

31+ Ways To Have The Best Summer In New England (2024)

It’s not often that I recommend people travel during peak tourism season, but summer in New England is an exception! While all seasons are celebrated in this region, most everyone will agree that summer is when everything comes to life, and there’s such a fun energy everywhere you go. That probably has something to do with our long winter hibernation, but when you also have such gorgeous coastline to enjoy, it’s hard to not be excited.

This post shares all my expert tips on fun things to do in New England in the summer season to help you celebrate what it’s all about this time of the year – beaches, lakes, day trips, seafood shacks, ice cream and tons more. So let’s get started!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

Is New England Worth Visiting In The Summer?

Oh, heck yes – especially the coast. That’s where it’s at for New England summers. But of course, the countryside, mountains and cities will all be exciting during summers in New England. This is when the weather will be at its best with fewest days of rain, more sunlight hours and warm temperatures in the air and ocean.

And as mentioned before, if you’re looking to head to the coast, summer is truly the best time to fully experience what coastal New England is all about. Paper plates loaded with fresh seafood, clam bakes, gorgeous beach sunsets, stunning road trips, camping … the opportunities are endless. This is one of those times that paying a premium for peak season is truly worth it.

Best Places To Visit In The Summer In New England

It’s no secret that the coastal destinations will absolutely dominate this portion of the list since the shoreline takes center stage in the summer months. But keep reading later in this post for ideas for spending summers in the mountains and cities, too! But these next few places are my picks for the absolute best destinations in New England in the summer season.

1. Cape Cod

If you’ve been scrolling around this website for a bit, you’ve probably gathered that Cape Cod and the islands are my all-time favorite summer destinations in New England. I’ve been traveling to these areas since I was a kid, and I go for at least a week every July, and often weekends in June and August, too.

There’s really no better place for beaches in New England than Cape Cod and the islands (but more on the islands in a bit!). With over 500 miles of coastline on the Cape, stunning beaches backdropped by sand dunes, calm and wavy waters to suit everyone’s preferences, quaint towns, hydrangeas in full bloom in July, beach bars, boat tours, an awesome seafood and ice cream scene, and gorgeous salt marshes, this is pretty much the ideal place for a summer getaway.

I have tons of posts on Cape Cod to help you plan your trip. Here are a few to get you started:

• Best Things To Do When Visiting Cape Cod For The First Time
• Best Towns To Stay In On Cape Cod
• What To Pack For Cape Cod
• Ultimate Guide To The Cape Cod National Seashore Beaches
• The Best Walking & Hiking Trails On Cape Cod
• Best Cape Cod Lighthouses To Visit
• Things To Know When Visiting Cahoon Hollow Beach

2. Nantucket

Nantucket is one of the islands off the coast of Cape Cod, and it’s going to be hard to find another summer New England destination that’s more charming and beautiful (the above photo should show you why!).

With rose-covered cottages, lighthouses, stunning beaches, hydrangeas galore, cobblestone streets, historic homes, and the cutest downtown, it doesn’t get much better than Nantucket summers. It’s probably the most expensive destination on this list, which is why many people do it for day trips, but to stay for a few nights on the island in the summer (or even a week!) should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Where To Stay On Nantucket

Keep in mind that Nantucket is one of the most expensive destinations in New England, so hotel prices are much higher!

• The Wauwinet Resort (includes private beach access)
• The Nantucket Hotel & Resort
• Hotel Pippa

Here are some of my posts on Nantucket that you may find helpful:

• Nantucket Day Trip Guide
• Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard For A Day Trip?
• How Many Days Do You Need On Nantucket (+ Best Things To Do!)
• How To Visit Nantucket’s Lighthouses
• Cape Cod vs. Nantucket: Which Is Best For You?

3. Martha’s Vineyard

The other beautiful island off Cape Cod’s coast is Martha’s Vineyard, which is another incredible destination to visit in summers in the summer. The biggest difference between Nantucket and the Vineyard is that Martha’s Vineyard is a lot bigger than Nantucket, and therefore, has more to do.

You’ll find much of the same on Martha’s Vineyard in the way of charming towns and beautiful beaches, but the cool thing about this island is that each town has its own vibe and character, and you’ll also have the opportunity to visit the gorgeous Aquinnah cliffs while visiting.

Where To Stay On Martha’s Vineyard:

• Winnetu Oceanside Resort (includes private beach access and a free shuttle to town).
• Harbor View Hotel in Edgartown (luxury option with views of Edgartown Light and free use of their Mercedes cars to get around!).
• The Oak Bluffs Inn

Here are some of my posts on Martha’s Vineyard that you may find helpful:

• The Ultimate Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip Guide
• How To See Martha’s Vineyard Without A Car
• Best Things To Do On Martha’s Vineyard
• Best Beaches On Marth a’s Vineyard

4. Ogunquit, Maine

One of the best beach towns in New England (and my personal favorite beach town to visit in Maine in the summer ) is Ogunquit. In the southern part of the state, it’s easily accessible from places like Portland, York, Wells and Kennebunkport (all wonderful summer destinations, too!), but it’s home to one of the most gorgeous beaches in Maine.

Ogunquit beach stretches over 3 miles, and has soft, sandy shoreline that’s equally fun to walk on and look at. And since this beach is pretty far north in the U.S., summer is the perfect time to visit since the water will be pretty chilly, but feel amazing on a hot day.

Where To Stay In Ogunquit :

• Terrace By The Sea
• Anchorage By The Sea
• The Trellis House

Click here to check out my post on all the best things to do in Ogunquit!

5. Kennebunkport, Maine

Speaking of Kennebunkport, this is another perfect summer destination in New England. Also located in southern Maine, and only about 20-30 minutes from Ogunquit, Kennebunkport was put on the map by the Bush family and their summer residence here. And it’s also one of the most charming towns in coastal New England.

Between beautiful beaches, the cutest little downtown called Dock Square, history, amazing seafood and scenic walking paths, there’s tons to do here in the summer. Kennebunkport is also home to some amazing hotels and resorts that are perfect for summer getaways.

Where To Stay In Kennebunkport:

• The Tides Beach Club (best for beach vacations!)
• Cottages at Cabot Cove (the cutest little village of independent cottages!)
• Rhumb Line Resort (best budget option!)

6. Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Another cool beach town in southern Maine that’s perfect in the summer is Old Orchard. This is one of the more unique places to check out in New England because it almost has a vintage/Jersey Shore vibe to it than traditional New England, but it’s also really fun!

Old Orchard is famous for its pier along the beach which has fair-type food vendors and restaurants. And the actual beach is absolutely beautiful.

There’s also a cute little downtown with shops, and a fun amusement park with a ferris wheel and other rides.

Personally, I like Old Orchard as a day trip from other parts of coastal New England. You can spend part of your day exploring and taking your turn on the rides, and the rest of the day lounging on the beach.

7. Ipswich, MA

Ipswich is home to my favorite beach on the North Shore – Crane Beach. Part of the Crane Estate , it requires a bit more planning to visit, but man, is it worth it! Because the beach and estate are owned by the Trustees as protected land, it does require a day pass to be purchased in advance before arriving. Be sure to click here for more information!

In addition to the beach and Crane Estate, Ipswich is a lovely little area in Massachusetts that beautifully balances rural farms, rivers and coastline. You’ll find incredible seafood restaurants here, too, and definitely don’t skip homemade ice cream at White Farms!

Where To Stay In Ipswich:

• The Inn At Castle Hill
• Ipswich Inn B&B
• Shea’s Riverside Inn & Motel (great budget option in nearby Essex!)

8. Gloucester, MA

Gloucester is one of the best coastal cities to visit in New England (yes, it’s actually a city!). But don’t worry, it actually feels more like a charming coastal village than a bustling city. Also located along the North Shore in Massachusetts, it’s home to lighthouses, incredible dining, beaches and whale watch tours.

Two of the best beaches in the area are Good Harbor Beach and Wingaersheek Beach, both in Gloucester. If you like calm and warm waters, head to Wingaersheek. For a few more waves, head to Good Harbor.

For some other fun things to do in Gloucester, plan to visit Eastern Point Lighthouse, Hammond Castle, Causeway Restaurant for a lobster dinner, and Holy Cow for ice cream!

Where To Stay In Gloucester:

• Beauport Hotel (a splurge that’s worth it!)
• Hotel At Cape Anne Marina
• Good Harbor Beach Inn

9. Rye, New Hampshire

If you’re looking for ocean beaches in New Hampshire, Rye is where you want to be! Known as pretty much the best beach town in the state, Rye is home 8 miles of Atlantic shoreline, and two beautiful public beaches: Jenness Beach and Wallis Sands Beach. There are a couple of other smaller beaches with limited or no parking, so if you’re staying in the area and can bike over, you can also visit Sawyers Beach and Bass Beach.

While vacationing in Rye, you can also go on a whale watch, grab an awesome lobster roll at Rye Harbor Lobster, and explore Odiorne Point State Park, just to name a few!

10. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

The largest lake in New Hampshire happen to also be the most beautiful and fun to explore. Lake Winnipesaukee is the perfect lakeside summer vacation in New England, and offers incredible opportunities for boating, jet skiing, exploring cute towns and shops, dining at great restaurants and just … relaxing.

Since the lake is so large, there are several towns to choose from as your home base when planning a visit, and a few of the best to stay in are Meredith, Wolfeboro, and Weirs Beach.

During your visit to the lake, you’ll want to make sure you visit the Castle in the Clouds, walk around Weirs Beach for the cool vibe, shop from the Long View Country Store and have dinner on the lake at Lakehouse Grille.

Where To Stay In Lake Winnipesaukee:

• Landing At Mill Falls
• Lake Opechee Inn & Spa
• Proctor’s Lakehouse Cottages

11. Westerly, Rhode Island

Westerly is known as one of the top beach towns in Rhode Island, and this is the place to go if you’re looking for a bit of luxury, too. Westerly is home to the most luxurious beach resorts in the state that include incredible accommodations, amenities and dining.

But you also don’t have to book a stay at a luxury resort to enjoy Westerly, and the best part about it is the stunning beaches, of course. One of the most popular beaches to check out is Misquamicut Beach, and you’ll also want to make sure you visit Atlantic Beach Park, Watch Hill, and grab a lobster roll at Two Little Fish.

Pro Tip : Westerly is only about 15 minutes rom Mystic, CT, which is another great place to check out!

Where To Stay In Westerly:

• The Ocean House Resort in Watch Hill (amazing luxury resort on the ocean!)
• Weekapaug Inn (another great ocean resort!)
• Pleasant View Inn (the most budget-friendly beach lodging in Westerly proper!)

Click here to read my guide on the best things to do in Westerly, RI & Watch Hill!

12. Newport, Rhode Island

The City By The Sea is honestly pretty wonderful year-round, but the summer definitely has a liveliness to it that’s undeniable. And because Newport also has gorgeous beaches to explore, on top of awesome wharves, shopping, waterfront dining and tons more, it’s one of the best summer destinations in New England.

Newport has a few beaches right in Newport proper, and these are Easton’s Beach (which is at the start of the Cliff Walk), Gooseberry Beach and Fort Adam Beach. But if you drive just a few minutes past Easton’s Beach, you’ll find yourself in Middletown, which has even better beaches (Second, Third and Surfer’s End are all awesome!).

Of course, there’s so much more to Newport than beaches, and I have them all listed in my Newport day trip guide below!

Where To Stay In Newport:

• Castle Hill Inn (best luxury oceanfront resort that’s walkable to the lighthouse!)
• The Chanler At Cliff Walk (opulent rooms right by Easton’s Beach and the entrance of the Cliff Walk)
• Sea Whale Motel (great budget option in Middletown close to beaches and downtown Newport!)

Click here to read about all the amazing things to do in Newport, RI!

13. Block Island, Rhode Island

I’m such a sucker for Block Island, and there are tons of reasons why. One, it’s an island, so it feels extra special getting there. Two, all the beaches are free which is such a rarity in New England, and they’re all beautiful! Three, it feels unique once you arrive, and has the cutest little downtown with shops. Four, the Mohegan Bluffs are stunning! Five, there are some pretty great nature trails to explore.

I could go on, but I’ll stop there. You’ll definitely want to click the link below to read about all the amazing things to do on Block Island to help you plan your visit!

Where To Stay On Block Island:

• Spring House Hotel
• Rose Farm Inn
• Avonlea, Jewel Of The Sea
• Cute Little Cottage Rental (with a pond!)

Click here to check out my guide to Block Island, including ferry info!

14. Westport, CT

One of the best summer towns to visit in Connecticut is Westport because of … you guessed it … the beaches! Westport has some of the best beaches in the state, and it also has a fun and charming downtown area with great shopping and dining.

The 3 main town beaches you’ll want to explore during your trip are Burying Hill, Old Mill and Compo. All of these sit alongside the Long Island Sound ocean waters.

When you’re not exploring the beaches, you’ll want to be sure to stroll through the cute shops downtown, grab a lobster rolls from The Lobster Shack, indulge in the amazing culinary scene, explore Sherwood Island State Park, and visit the Maritime Aquarium.

If you happen to be in Westport on a Thursday in the summer, you’ll also want to check out the awesome farmer’s market!

Where To Stay In Westport:

• The Inn At Longshore

Pro Tip : If you love the Anthropologie brand, Westport is home to 1 of 8 Terrain stores in the entire country, and this is an incredibly inspiring shop to visit for housewares.

Bonus Suggestions!

While the above recommendations are my all-time favorites in the summer season, these are also incredible places to visit in the warmer months:

→ Boston to see the Public Gardens, take a boat or whale watch tour, see a game at Fenway, and tour the epic culinary scene!

→ Portland to enjoy the incredible breweries, the waterfront parks and awesome food scene!

→ Providence to see a WaterFire show, visit the Roger Williams Park Zoo, and enjoy the riverfront walkway!

→ Newburyport, MA to visit Plum Island’s beaches and nature trails!

→ Acadia National Park , of course! I’ll be touching on that a bit later in the post, but this is a no-brainer. I personally prefer Acadia in the fall for foliage season and cooler weather for hiking, but summer brings the longest days and fewer chances of rain, making this time of the year the most popular for good reason. I have a detailed guide on the best time to visit Acadia National Park if you need more info 😉

A few posts you may find helpful while exploring these places:

• Best Breweries In Portland, Maine
• Best Boston Food Tours
• Best Things To Do In Newburyport & Plum Island
• The Perfect Acadia National Park Itinerary
• Best Towns To Stay When Visiting Acadia National Park

Best Things To Do In The Summer In New England

Okay, so now that we’ve gone over all the best destinations to visit in this region in the summer, let’s get into specific activities and attractions you should have on your radar!

15. Do A Whale Watch Tour

New England is a top destination in the world for whale watching, and while tours are offered spring through fall, summer is the ideal time to head out because the weather will likely be nicer, and peak migration movement happens June, July, August and parts of September. So, your chances are seeing whales are at their highest around these months.

The most popular places that whale watch tours will visit in New England are Jeffreys Ledge and the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. The Stellwagen Bank, especially, is a well-regarded region for spotting whales of all kinds, including humpbacks, minke and more. Pretty much all tours, regardless of where they depart from, will go to one of these areas.

Popular places for hopping aboard a whale watch tour are Provincetown, Gloucester, Boston, and Rye.

• Check prices and availability for the Gloucester Whale Watch!
• Click here to check rates and availability for the Boston Whale Watch!
• Click here to check rates and availability for the Provincetown Whale Watch!

16. Get A Maine Style Lobster Roll

There are two kinds of lobster rolls in New England, and my personal favorite is the Maine style lobster roll. The other is the Connecticut style lobster roll, but the reason I think all first-timers should go with the Maine version is because it’s cold lobster salad in a bun, whereas the Connecticut version is warm lobster chunks in butter. The cold lobster salad style just feels better in the summer season to me 😉

And it’s honestly not summer in New England until you’ve had a lobster roll, right? You can find them all over the region, and any seafood restaurant will have a lobster roll on their menu.

My personal favorites, however, can be found on Cape Cod and in Maine, so you’ll definitely want to make sure this one is on your list if you’re in Massachusetts or Maine.

Click here to read about the best lobster rolls on Cape Cod!

17. Eat All The Ice Cream

So I know ice cream isn’t specific to New England, but guys, there’s some pretty amazing homemade ice cream here! You’ll find that a lot of people have die-hard favorites in towns across the region, and one of the best things to do in the summer months are to find your own favorite.

Hard ice cream reigns supreme, and waffle cones are always worth it! But lots of places also offer soft, vegan and allergy-aware ice cream, too. My all-time favorite ice cream can be found on Cape Cod at The Juice Bar on Nantucket, and Sundae School in Dennis Port and Harwich Port. But I’ve never had a homemade ice cream in New England that I didn’t like.

Click here to check out my post on the best ice cream places on Cape Cod!

18. Take A Sailing Or Lobster Boat Tour

While the weather is at its best in the summer months, one of the best things to add to your itinerary is some kind of boat or lobstering tour! Since lobstering is a way of life in New England, it’s fascinating to head out on a traditional boat and learn about lifestyle and, how it impacts the community. You can often haul up lobster traps and catch your own lobster, too!

And, of course, sailing tours are always incredible, especially at sunset. Learn how to hoist the sails, or sit back and just relax while you cruise around the coastline enjoying breathtaking views.

Here are some awesome tours to get you started:

→ Tall Ships Cruise Along Casco Bay in Portland, Maine → Seals, Lighthouses and Lobster Trap Hauling Tour from Boothbay Harbor, Maine → Windjammer Cruise from Camden, Maine → Tall Ship Sunset Cruise from Boston → Lobstering Tour from Portland, Maine

19. Ride The Cog To New England’s Highest Peak

While The Cog runs trips up to the top of Mount Washington (New England highest peak!) from late April through mid-October, summer is an awesome time to do this since the weather will be the best, and the longer days offer more tour options departing as late as 4pm.

So, what is The Cog, you may be wondering? It’s the the world’s first mountain climbing railway! These little trains have been going up to the summit of Mount Washington since the 1860s, and it remains as one of the top attractions in New England today.

Once you arrive at the summit, you’ll be greeted with pretty much the mot epic views you can get in the region, and it’s absolutely a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll remember.

20. Camp In Acadia National Park

Camping season begins in early May in Acadia , and goes through mid-October, but as everyone knows, summer is the ultimate time for camping in New England because of the weather. While New England is home to some awesome camping all over the region, Acadia is an especially wonderful place to do it because well … it’s Acadia! You’ll have the entire park at your fingertips.

The two best campgrounds inside Acadia National Park are Blackwoods and Seawall, and these are the only two campgrounds located on the main portion of Mount Desert Island, and accessible to the main sites and attractions. You also have the option to camp at Duck Harbor and Schoodic, but these are pretty far from the main parts of Acadia, and best for those who have already been to the park.

21. Make Your Way Through A Sunflower Maze

During the month of August, Lyman Orchards in Middlefield, CT creates an incredible maze in their sunflower fields, and this is one of the most fun things you can do this time of the year in New England!

Made out of 350,000   sunflowers, you’ll feel good about your visit because $1 of each ticket sold is donated to the Connecticut Children’s Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders. And after you’ve made your way through the maze, you can head over to pick your own sunflowers to take home, and also pick your own peaches!

You may be able to pick some more fruits, depending on the exact time of your visit, including raspberries and blueberries.

Bonus: Pick Your Own Fruits & Get Some Fresh-Cut Flowers!

Because New England is highly seasonal, the blooming season for flowers in the summer feels extra special – like a reward for enduring the winter! For that reason, gardening is taken pretty seriously in this region, and there are some really wonderful flower and fruit farms you can visit for fresh cut bouquets and U-pick fruit!

Here are some great places to check out:

• Cape Cod Lavender Farm (MA) – Fresh cut lavender bunches for sale, with scenic nature trails to explore.
• Lavender Pond Farms (CT) – Walk the lavender fields and pick up some lovely lavender products.
• Tarrnation Flowers (NH) – Gorgeous varieties including dahlias, bouquets available at their farm stand and the Littleton Farmer’s Market.
• Spy Haven (ME) – The cutest little stand with freshly-cut bouquets available.
• Golden Hour Tulips (MA) – U-pick sunflowers available.
• Osamequin Farm (RI) – U-pick flowers and fruits.
• True Bloom Farm (VT) – Awesome little flower truck with stunning fresh cut flowers!

Click here to read about the best places for blueberry picking in Maine!

22. Float Down A River

One of the most fun and also relaxing things to do in the summer season here is float down a lazy river in an inner tube! There are places all over New England that rent out the tubes, and will even pick you up at the ending point so you don’t have to worry about finding your way back to your car.

• Vermont River Runners
• Saco Bound (NH)
• Three Rivers (ME)
• Deerfield River Portage (MA)
• Farmington River Tubing (CT)

23. Hike New England’s Peaks

So we’ve covered taking The Cog up to New England’s highest peak, but the summer is also a great time to get some hikes in. And since New England is home to some pretty amazing mountain ranges, you’ll have a hard time choosing which to tackle first.

The Green Mountains in Vermont are always a great place to start. The highest mountain in Vermont is Mount Mansfield, which is located in Stowe. There’s also Camel’s Hump, which is a pretty incredible hike to do in this range.

And of course, New Hampshire’s White Mountains are another great place to visit for awesome hikes. You can check out the Artist’s Bluff trail, which is famous for foliage views, but is also fun in the summer. And the rest of Franconia Notch State Park and all of Crawford Notch State Park are home to wonderful hikes to add to your list.

24. Catch An Epic Sunset

With miles and miles of coastline, there’s bound to be some pretty amazing beach sunsets to be had in New England. And with longer days in the summer months, this is the best time to catch a few.

There’s a long list of places with amazing sunsets, but a few of the absolute best are Cape Cod, Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, Block Island, East Beach in Westerly and Newport.

Click here to check out my post on the best sunset spots on Cape Cod!

25. Plan A Coastal Road Trip

Okay, so you’ve seen some pretty awesome coastal towns in New England throughout this post, but even better news: most of them are pretty close to one another, which makes for an amazing coastal New England road trip!

Summer is the best time of year for a coastal road trip because all the shops and restaurants will be open. And while it’s peak season, as mentioned before, it’s worth it. The easiest coastal road trip you can do begins in Boston, and ends in Bar Harbor/Acadia National Park. The total driving time without stops is 4.5 hours, but you’ll want to budget about a week to see and do it all. But you can also do it on a weekend, too.

This route will take you through the Massachusetts North Shore (Salem, Gloucester, Rockport, Ipswich), Portsmouth in New Hampshire, Ogunquit, Kennebunkport, Portland and Boothbay Harbor. There’s plenty more to see along this route, but those are the highlights.

Here are some posts that will help you out:

• Incredible Stops To Make Between Portland and Acadia National Park
• Best Stops To Make Driving Boston To Portland, Maine
• My Unforgettable Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary

26. Go Sea Kayaking

Kayaking the ocean waters in the summer season is so fun and refreshing, and there are some great places to check out while planning your summer adventures throughout the region.

Here are some places to check out to get you started:

• Sea Kayaking & Oyster Farm Tasting In Portland, Maine
• North Shore Adventures in Rockport, MA – Kayak out to Thacher Island Lighthouses
• Kayak Through Cape Cod Salt Marshes
• Coastal Kayaking in Bar Harbor, ME

27. Discover New England’s Lakes

I know we’ve touched on Lake Winnipesaukee, but there are quite a few more amazing lake destinations in New England to check out during the summer months.

Lake Champlain in Burlington is Vermont’s largest lake, and offers awesome opportunities to take boat tours, cruise along the bike path and even bike out to the Champlain Islands.

Here are some other wonderful lake destinations in New England:

• Moosehead Lake in Maine
• Sebago Lake in Maine
• Rangeley Lake in Maine
• Lake Willoughby in Vermont
• Purity Lake in New Hampshire
• Sunapee Lake in New Hampshire

Summer Festivals In New England

28. newport folk & jazz festivals.

Two of the most famous summer festivals in New England are the Newport Jazz & Folk Festivals. Taking place the last weekend in July, and the first weekend of August each year, these music events are even some of the premiere festivals to attend in the entire country!

Past performers at the Folk & Jazz Festivals have included Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, and Paul Simon. In more recent years, artists like The Roots, Hozier, Brandi Carlisle, Mumford & Sons and Missy Elliott have all taken the stage.

29. Fourth Of July Celebrations – All Over!

While the Memorial Day celebrations have always been considered the un official kick off to summer, the Fourth of July events have long been regarded as the actual kick off to the summer season in New England.

And pretty much any town in the region will have some kind of celebration for the July Fourth holiday. Boston celebrates with fireworks and performances by the Boston Pops, Freeport in Maine teams up with L.L. Bean for a 3-day celebration, Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts celebrates the old fashioned way, and Bristol, RI puts on the oldest Fourth of July parade in the country!

30. Quechee Hot Air Balloon Craft And Music Festival

For over 40 years, the Quechee Hot Air Balloon & Craft Festival has been a Vermont summer staple! Between morning and evening balloon take-offs, live music, balloon rides and over 60 food, drink and craft vendors, there’s a little something for everyone to plan the perfect summer day.

31. Hampton Beach Seafood Festival

For seafood lovers, it’s hard to beat the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival in New Hampshire! With over 50 food vendors serving up local seafood and other delicious treats, live music, lobster roll eating competitions, art shows and food demos, there’s so much to check out at this awesome summer festival.

New England Summer Weather

The summer months bring the best weather New England will see all year, and it can also vary a bit based on the different regions.

July & August are typically the hottest and driest months of the year throughout the region, and the southern areas (Connecticut and lower Massachusetts) can regularly see temperatures in the high 80s and low 90s°F.

The northern regions of New England (upper Massachusetts, Vermont, Maine and New Hampshire), can regularly see temperatures in the 80s°F. It can also get hot here, but it’s generally a bit cooler than the souther regions.

Now, keep in mind that this is still New England, and the weather can be moody. It can still rain in the summer, and you can experience foggy and overcast days, too. Cape Cod and Nantucket, especially, are known for overcast and foggy mornings (sometimes lasting all day, even in the summer).

New England in the summer tends to be humid, too. In fact, it seems to be getting more and more humid as each year passes. I often experience humidity percentages in the 80s in the summer, which can make it feel like it’s over 100°F outside. But again, you could also experience chillier days, too! Those are less common in the summer, though.

As usual, I recommend that you check the weather report a few days before leaving for your trip to determine what it will be like during your visit.

The good news, however, is that if you’re coming from overseas where air conditioning is not common, it’s very common in the U.S., including New England! Hotels and vacation rentals will very likely have AC. And since most of the beaches border the Atlantic ocean, the water is usually pretty chilly, which feels amazing on a hot day.

Is New England In The Summer Expensive To Visit?

Unfortunately, yes. The most popular summer destinations in New England are all the coastal towns, and since this is their peak season, it’s when hotel and vacation rental prices will be at their highest. And since New England is more expensive compared to the rest of the country year-round, it’s not a cheap place to visit during peak season.

To visit this region in the summer on a budget, I recommend checking out camp sites! I’ve even camped on Cape Cod before (Truro has an awesome campground called Adventure Bound that’s walkable to a stunning beach). Some motels that are outside of the main beach towns will also be more budget-friendly.

Generally speaking, I would expect to pay minimum $300/night for a moderate hotel along the coast this time of the year. If you want to stay closer to the water, it will go up from there.

More posts you may find helpful:

• Summer In Connecticut: The Best Things To Do!
• The Most Incredible New England Resorts & Spas
• Best New England Day Trips
• Best Things To Do In New England
• The Most Incredible New England Lighthouses To Visit
• Best Time To Visit New England
• Must-See Towns Along The New England Coast

That’s A Wrap On Summer In New England

And there you have it – all my recommendations on how to have the perfect summer in New England. Between the best beaches in the Northeast, clam bakes, whale watching, quaint coastal towns, epic coastal road trips, lighthouses and more, New England makes for an incredibly memorable summer getaway!

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London Life & Inspiration , Things to do

London in summer: 15 epic things to do this summer in london.

Let’s start with the premise that I absolutely adore London in summer. Summer in London is the best time of year. The days are longer, the weather is milder, the rooftop bars and beer gardens open up, and the parks fill up with happy Londoners.

There are always loads of things to do in London , but in summer especially the nice weather opens up hundreds of possibilities and new activities. This guide is dedicated to all the best things you can do in London in summer.

It also goes over some of the logistics like what weather you can expect in London in summer and how to get around. If you’re looking for tips on how to spend an epic summer in London, this is the guide for you!

In this guide:

• 1 Weather in London in summer
• 2 Getting around London in summer
• 3.1 Have drinks at a rooftop bar or beer garden
• 3.2 Have a picnic outside
• 3.3 Go cycling in Hyde Park
• 3.4 Enjoy the view from Primrose Hill
• 3.5 Sing along at a mass karaoke at the Scoop
• 3.6 Watch a movie at a pop-up outdoor cinema
• 3.7 Go for a cruise along the River Thames
• 3.8 Swim in Hampstead Heath Pond
• 3.9 Eat at a street food market
• 3.10 Watch a sporting event along Regent’s Canal
• 3.11 Explore the street art in Shoreditch
• 3.12 Watch a performance at Shakepeare’s Globe
• 3.13 Dance at a music festival
• 3.14 Have fun at Notting Hill Carnival
• 3.15 Visit Kew Gardens

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Weather in London in summer

The weather in London in summer is lovely, not too hot and not too cold. Temperatures average between 15°C and 23°C, but can go as high as 30°C on particularly hot summer days.

It does sometimes rain but not as often as in winter, and usually for shorter periods of time.

The days are really long, with sunrises around 5AM and sunsets around 9:30PM. The fact that it’s so light until so late is one of my favourite things, since it means you can be out and about enjoying your day until really late.

Getting around London in summer

I always say that the best way to get around London is on foot, and especially so in summer! Walking allows you to see all the cute streets and buildings that you might miss from a bus or tube, and it will also be good for you!

Cycling is also a great way to get around London. I don’t cycle often but when I do I tend to stick to the side streets, so that I can see a different part of London and to avoid the traffic and buses.

For long distances, if you don’t want to walk or cycle, London has an excellent public transport system. Try to get a bus where you can and sit on the top deck.

Basically my suggestion is to travel around in ways that allow you to be outside. Sunny weather in London doesn’t last forever, make the most of it while you can!

15 best things to do in London in summer

Have drinks at a rooftop bar or beer garden.

Is it bad of me to say this is my favourite London summer activity and possibly the reason I keep coming back to London? A big part of my social life in London revolves around meeting friends for drinks or evening events.

It’s only normal that with the arrival of summer, and bars opening up their outdoors areas, being able to drink outside in the sun makes me happier than being hidden indoors in some dark pub in winter.

Jokes aside and ignoring my slight alcohol issue, the beer gardens and rooftop bars in London in summer are awesome. They’re the perfect place to meet friends, have a fun evening out, and maybe snap some Instagram-worthy foodie shots .

Have a picnic outside

There are lots of awesome picnic spots in London . Yes I know you could just head to the park closest to you and have a picnic there, but why not go to some of the most iconic areas in London instead?

There are also some awesome picnic spots like The Scoop and Regents Canal, which besides being great local hidden gems , are also a bit more creative than just having a picnic in the park.

My favourite spots are Primrose Hill and Alexandra Palace, so that you can sit in the sun, enjoy a drink and food, as well as the epic views over the London skyline.

Go cycling in Hyde Park

Hyde Park is the largest green area in Central London . If you want to go on a cycling adventure but don’t want to cycle around the trafficked streets of London, Hyde Park is the perfect place to do that.

The park is huge and has wide lanes where you can easily cycle without the risk of crashing into other cyclists or pedestrians. There are also some very scenic spots like along the Serpentine and Kensington Gardens.

Cycling in Hyde Park is the perfect summer activity for those who want to be outside in the sun, but also get some exercise in.

Enjoy the view from Primrose Hill

Primrose Hill is located in the northern part of Regent’s Park. It’s a 64-metre high hill, with sweeping views over the London skyline .

I love the view from here because you can see iconic London landmarks like the London Eye, the City, the Shard and the BT Tower poking over from the green line of the Regent Park trees.

It’s without a doubt one of the best views in London. In summer you will find plenty of Londoners sat here basking in the sun, enjoying the view and a drink.

Sing along at a mass karaoke at the Scoop

I’ve said before that The Scoop is one of my favourite spots in London, especially in summer. Summer by the River, a daily festival with lots of fun events scheduled across the three summer months, takes place at More London and The Scoop.

They set up a bar, street food shack, dining tables and sun deck chairs where you can grab food, drinks and relax in the sunshine. They also set up a big screen by The Scoop, where they play big sporting events like Wimbledon.

They also have events like movie nights and on Fridays, mass karaoke. If you’ve never done it before don’t worry, it’s exactly what it sounds like.

The lyrics play on the screen and everyone sings along, so that the bad singers are drowned out in the crowd.

Watch a movie at a pop-up outdoor cinema

In summer you will find outdoor cinemas popping up all over London. Some are like the screens at The Scoop and Regent’s Canal, where they put up a screen and anyone can go along to watch an event or movie night.

But there are also proper outdoor open-air cinemas, with comfy chairs or even bean bags. Some of the most popular are Merchant Square Big Screen or Rooftop Film Club.

Make sure to check their sites to see what movies they have on and prices. It’s the perfect summer activity for those who want to have a cinema or movie night, without locking themselves in a dark room for three hours!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rooftop Film Club (UK) (@rooftopfilmclub)

Go for a cruise along the River Thames

Is there anything more summery than going for a cruise? The Thames River cruises run all year long, but they are a lot more pleasant in summer when you can sit outside and enjoy the views without a dirty glass window between you and the view.

The Thames River cruises always go past some of the most iconic London landmarks, and allow you to see the city from a completely different angle.

I’ve done loads over the years, first as university party events and later as fancier cruise dining experiences .

So whether you choose to do a dining cruise or just a sight seeing one, sit back, relax, enjoy the feel of the sunshine on your skin and take in the glorious London views.

Swim in Hampstead Heath Pond

The first time I spent a summer in London I was a bit gutted at not being by the beach. As much as I loved all the cool summer stuff in London, I was used to swimming daily and I missed that.

Imagine how happy I was to discover there are places in central London where you can go for a swim outside! There are a number of bathing ponds in Hampstead Heath Pond, both mixed and divided in men or women only.

Admittedly the water isn’t quite crystal clear, but it’s still a fun experience. You can get together a group of friends, go for a cooling swim and then bask in the sun in Hampstead Heath.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out London (@timeoutlondon)

Eat at a street food market

I love eating at street food markets at any time of year, but doing so in summer when you can actually be outside without having to shelter yourself from the rain is even better.

My favourite street food markets in London are Camden Market , Borough Market and the Dinerama Street Feast venues.

They are all quite different one from the other, but are all characterised by an abundance of international stalls, big tables where you can eat with friends and bars for drinks.

If you prefer to have a proper sit down meal, be it bottomless brunch , afternoon tea or dinner, try to do so at a venue with an outdoors area. The nice weather in London doesn’t last forever, make the most of it!

Watch a sporting event along Regent’s Canal

I know what you might be thinking, how does one watch a sporting event along a canal? Regent’s Canal is a very long canal, starting around Paddington and joining up with the Thames all the way in East London.

It’s a tranquil part of London and you can always find Londoners jogging or cycling along the canal. My favourite part is the one behind Kings Cross Station, by Granary Square.

Here you will find big steps leading down to the canal. In summer they cover the steps with fake grass, and hang a big screen on the other side of the canal, where they always play events like Wimbledon.

It’s one of my favourite London summer spots. There are loads of bars, restaurants and street food stalls where you can grab food and drinks to have while you watch Wimbledon (or another event) along Regent’s Canal.

Explore the street art in Shoreditch

I guess you could do this at any time of year, but walking around in the sunshine and warm weather is always more fun. Shoreditch is the quirky and hipster area of London.

There are loads of beautiful graffiti all over the neighbourhood. You could do a guided tour but you can also do it alone by following my street art in Shoreditch walking itinerary .

You can see some of coolest street art in London, snap some gorgeous London Instagram shots in the sunshine and discover this edgy area of London.

Watch a performance at Shakepeare’s Globe

There are plays at Shakespeare’s Globe on all throughout the year, however given the open roof characteristic of the venue, you will have a much better time going there in summer.

Shakespeare’s Globe is located on the banks of the River Thames, and is home to many of Shakespeare’s performances. As the name suggests the theatre has a circular shape, with balconies along the sides and a wide floor for standing spectators.

This is how plays happened back in the day, and the tradition continues to this day. Tickets for a standing spot can be as cheap as £5, however bear in mind you’ll be standing the whole time!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shakespeare's Globe (@the_globe)

Dance at a music festival

You might not associate music festivals with cities, and yet London is home to many music festivals throughout the summer. Obviously they’re not grand affairs like Glastonbury with overnight camping, but they’re enjoyable nonetheless.

They’re usually housed in the bigger parks of London, and last for 3-4 days. Some of the most famous ones are Wireless in Finsbury Park and British Summer in Hyde Park.

You can expect huge stages, big names performing, people dancing all throughout the day and late hours of the night, and lots of fun!

Have fun at Notting Hill Carnival

If the music festivals aren’t enough then you should definitely add Notting Hill Carnival to your London summer bucket list. Notting Hill Carnival is one of the coolest free events in London .

It’s a huge event that takes place every summer at the end of August. It takes over the streets of Notting Hill in a colourful celebration of the Caribbean community.

Everybody dresses up, joins the parade and dances down the streets, enjoying the music and fun! You will often see also families with children here so has a very different vibe from just any other music festival.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Notting Hill Carnival (@nhcarnivalldn)

Visit Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is one of the most beautiful parks in London . Located a bit outside central London, it’s home to a stunning botanical gardens.

Parks are always fun to visit in summer, but Kew Gardens especially is worthy of a visit. You can wander around the gardens with all the flowers in bloom, surrounded by the sweet and fresh aroma of summer.

There are also a few designated picnic areas where you can bring your own food and drinks. Perfect for a family picnic in the sun!

Final thoughts on London summer activities

There you have it, the ultimate London in summer bucket list! London is a cosmopolitan and exciting city, rich of things to do at any time of year, but I find it especially comes alive in summer.

Regardless of how much time you’re spending in London, these summer activities are perfect for any itinerary! (If you want help with your itinerary, check out my 1-day , 2-day and 5-day London itineraries!)

With the nice weather pubs and bars open up their outdoors areas, lots of fun festival and events are scheduled and you can spend more time outside. It’s the perfect time to enjoy this beautiful city!

I hope you find this guide useful in planning your summer trip to London. If you have any questions, or suggestions for more fun things to do in London in summer, just let me know in the comments!

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Greta Omoboni is a full time blogger based in London. After 3.5 years of blogging about destinations all over the world on her main site, Greta's Travels, she decided to start a new site, dedicated to her second home and favourite city; London!

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The BEST places to visit in UK in Summer

Last Updated on June 4, 2024 by Lauren Allen

Has anyone else felt a deep appreciation for exploring their own country in recent years? With lockdowns bringing foreign travel to a halt so suddenly back in 2020, a lot of us started to explore our own backyards (myself included). This led to discovering places we had never even heard of. Places that are truly beautiful.

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The very best places to visit in UK in Summer:

In this post, Pack and Paint have collaborated with many other travel bloggers to share the very best places to visit in the UK in Summer. You will gain useful insight into exploring the UK’s top destinations as well as some hidden gems you may not have considered visiting.

Bookmark this post to revisit when you need some UK travel inspiration or share this post with your friends on social media who may be planning their very own UK road trip!

The best places to visit in England in Summer:

By Lauren at Pack and Paint

As a born and bred Mancunian, the city will always have a special place in my heart. Despite now living in Leicester, my love for my hometown has never left me. After living there for 27 years, I like to think I know my stuff when it comes to Manchester.

As well as being a fabulous place to live, Manchester should be on everybody’s UK bucket list in my (expert) opinion. The city combines culture, an amazing live music scene and one of the best nights out England has to offer. Additionally, the city boasts an impressive history and some lovely nature trails, meaning there truly is something for everyone in this diverse northern gem.

In the Summer months, Manchester comes alive with outdoor gigs and festivals. Furthermore, there are a number of super popular bars with outdoor terraces to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the sunshine.

I could go on forever, but trust me when I say that Manchester is one of the VERY best places to visit in the UK in the Summer.

North Norfolk Coast

By Izzy at Norfolk Travel Guide

With a million years of history, fabulous beaches, traditional seaside resorts and dramatic landscapes backed by huge skies, the North Norfolk Coast is one of the most stunning parts of the United Kingdom.

The coastline, part of which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, consists of long and deep sandy beaches, soft glacial cliffs, salt marshes, shingle ridges and sand dunes, making the area a haven for bird and wildlife, and the perfect place for coastal walking.

Dotted along the coast are seaside towns like Cromer and Sheringham, which offer the perfect environments for family holidays, with great beaches and lots of traditional attractions. Try your hand at crabbing from Cromer pier, or take a boat ride to Blakeney Point to see the UK’s largest seal colonies as they bask on the sandbanks there.

Inland from the coast, Norfolk has a wealth of castles, stately homes and theme parks to visit – from Royal Sandringham, the Queen’s favourite residence, to BeWILDerwood, the award-winning woodland adventure park.

You’ll also be able to discover ancient history, with fossilised human footprints and a huge Mammoth skeleton that were found along this coastline, evidence that Norfolk had its first tourists nearly one million years ago! You can still go fossil hunting today, amongst the rock pools that appear as the tide goes out, before heading back to dry land for well-earned fish and chips!

Wells Next The Sea

By Anisa at Two Traveling Texans

If you want to spend some time at the beach during the summer, head to the North Norfolk Coast where you will find some of the best beaches in the UK. Wells-Next-the-Sea is a seaside town that offers more than just a nice beach.

It’s a great destination for art lovers as there are a few art galleries to check out. During the summer months, you don’t want to miss the Lifeboat Horse sculpture that sits on the harbour sand. It’s fully visible at low tide, then as the tide rises the horse becomes partially submerged like it’s swimming. Additionally, an old maltings building has been transformed into art, heritage and community centre called Wells Maltings.

Wells beach is about a mile away from the town, but definitely worth the effort to get to it. It’s known for its colourful beach huts on stilts and has a huge sandy area during low tide. The water is calm so ideal for swimming, but you do need to be careful and heed the siren as the tide comes in quickly.

Nearby, you can visit Holkham Park. In addition to the historic Holkham Hall, you can also see the walled garden, playground, lake, temple, and more. There are several waymarked walks suitable for all levels.

The Peak District

By Zoe at Zoe Goes Places

The Peak District National Park in the heart of England is worthy of a visit all year round. But, in summer, it really is the place to be. Countryside walks, cute towns and plenty of outdoor activities, what’s not to love?!

If hillwalking is your kind of thing, you’ll want to check out Chrome Hill, Shining Tor or Kinder Scout. Or if you prefer walking on the flat, add Ladybower Reservoir, Lud’s Church and Padley Gorge to your must-visit list. Aside from walking, you can taste the namesake water in Buxton, the tarts in Bakewell and the cheese in Hartington. Of course, all of these come with countryside pubs for drinks and food to enjoy well into the long, light evenings.

For the perfect walk and picturesque village combination, you need to visit Castleton and walk up Mam Tor and along the Great Ridge . The village is small but has a couple of pubs, cafes, restaurants and a visitor centre. Plus, you can visit the nearby Peveril Castle ruins or Peak Cavern and Speedwell Cavern for an underground experience. Then, you can climb the distinctive Mam Tor peak with its collapsed side and walk along the Great Ridge with views over Edale and Hope Valley.

Scarborough

By Hannah at Get Lost

Scarborough in North Yorkshire is one of the most popular beach destinations in the UK. And when you visit this charming seaside town, it is easy to see why! Scarborough uniquely blends the traditional British seaside nostalgia with all the comforts of a modern UK summer getaway.

The incredible selection of things to do in Scarborough is what makes it one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer. The town is home to a series of beautiful gardens which look stunning during their summer bloom. Shuttleworth Gardens, South Cliff Gardens and Peasholm Park are lovely places for a summer stroll in the sea breeze.

But if you are looking for a more traditional seaside experience, the Scarborough seafront is where you want to be. You can try your luck at the arcades with traditional penny slot machines alongside immersive virtual reality headsets. And of course, you must tuck into fish and chips after a stroll along Scarborough Beach!

Two highlights you don’t want to miss include the Central Tramway Company and the Scarborough Fair Collection. Central Tramway is the oldest cliff tramway company in the country, and it promises beautiful views over the beach. Scarborough Fair Collection is home to an impressive array of vintage fairground rides, mechanical organs plus vintage cars and steam engines. It brings back all the fun of the fair with a good dose of nostalgia!

A seaside escape is a perfect way to soak up the British summer, and Scarborough is the ideal spot for visitors of all ages!

By Samantha at Continuous Roamer

Dorset is a coastal region in the south of England, encompassing east Devon to Bournemouth. It is also home to the spectacular Jurassic Coastline – aptly named due to its remarkable fossils and landforms.

There are numerous seaside towns that make a good base for a summer holiday in Dorset, such as Weymouth, Bournemouth, and Swanage.

One of the best times to visit Dorset is in the summer months to make the most of the warmer weather on the UK’s south coast. Some of the best things to do in Dorset include its beaches, clifftop walks, and outdoor historic sites. Therefore, the weather needs to be cooperative to experience Dorset to its fullest.

One of the places that should not be missed in Dorset is the impressive rock formation named Durdle Door, a natural arch formed over thousands of years. Another nearby site to visit in Dorset is the beautiful Lulworth Cove with bright blue water.

Some other fun activities to experience in Dorset include a ride on the Swanage Railway, a walk along Gold Hill in Shaftesbury, and a visit to the historic Corfe Castle. Try a slice of local Dorset apple cake while visiting these coastal towns.

By Lana at Wallflower in Wanderland

Located just an hour north of London, Cambridge is one of the UK’s most visited cities. There’s something for all sorts of venturers in Cambridge, from enjoying a picnic in of the many parks to joining on a walking tour of the city, or turning back time to learn the long history.

Year-round activities and attractions include going punting on the River Cam, having a spot of brunch in an independent coffee shop, exploring by bicycle on a cycling tour, exploring the free-to-enter Fitzwilliam Museum, or taking a visit to Kettle’s Yard. The most infamous attraction and what Cambridge is most known for would be King’s College and King College Chapel. Many love to flock to Cambridge in order to admire the Cambridge Colleges, there are 31 to tick off, so be sure to keep count!

To make things as easy as possible, there are several tours available within Cambridge. These include the Cambridge highlights tour, the hop-on hop-off bus tour, the Hidden Cambridge walking tour, Treasure Hunt Cambridge and the Haunted Cambridge tour.

The summer brings sunshine, and with it, even more magic to this beautiful city. The parks come alive with marvellous multi-cultural performances and arts activities as part of the annual ‘Summer in the City’ programme. There are also numerous festivals which take place in the summer such as ‘Strawberry Fair’, ‘Cambridge Mela’, ‘The Big Weekend’, and ‘Music in the Parks’ just to name a few.

By Erica at Travels With Erica

Brighton is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in the UK in the summer. The weather is beautiful, you can swim in the water, and there are countless outdoor activities to keep you busy.

The main draw for people to visit Brighton in the summer is the seafront and Brighton Palace Pier. You can bike near the water, go kayaking, play sports, and even ride a rollercoaster along the seafront.

Unfortunately, the beaches in Brighton aren’t sandy beaches, so you can’t lie out in the sun all day. If you do want to get a tan, be sure to pick up one of the free beach chairs provided by the city. You can find them at the top of the beach and sometimes already set up on the beach.

While the seafront is the main draw, it isn’t the only thing Brighton has to offer. During the heat of the day, sneak away from the seafront and visit the Royal Pavilion and the Lanes.

The Royal Pavilion was built by King George IV, and the city has refurbished the pavilion to look like it did when King George IV lived there. You can tour the building and get a sense of the king’s quirky and eccentric style.

The Lanes are a series of small, winding streets in the heart of Brighton. They’re full of boutique shops and local restaurants. If you’re looking for good food in Brighton, the Lanes is the first place you should start looking.

The Cotswolds

By Shobha at Epic England Travel

Covering almost 800 acres, the Cotswolds is located west of London and an easy trip from the city. The area covers several counties and many towns and villages. Some of the most well-known towns are Burford, Bourton-on-the-Water and Moreton-in- Marsh. The houses in the Cotswolds are made of a distinctive honey-coloured hue which makes the villages and towns glow in the sun. The Cotswolds has lots of pretty villages to explore including one that many consider the prettiest town in all of England, Castle Combe.

The Cotswolds is home to a lot of celebrities (and aristocrats). Prince Charles’ Highgrove estate is located in The Cotswolds. As a result, this area has a lot of amenities despite being a rural idyll.

One of the biggest attractions in the Cotswolds is Blenheim Castle, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, and a Unesco World Heritage site. Blenheim Castle also has extensive gardens to explore. One of the best things to do in The Cotswolds is to hike its paths which meander through beautiful countryside filled with fields, woodlands and meadows.

The Cotswolds is very much a family-friendly destination. In the summer, Cotswold Water Park is a great place to cool off and enjoy water sports. Kids will love The Cotswold Falconry Center and the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens.

Adults will love that the Cotswolds has lots of great pubs and restaurants. Very much a foodie destination, the best places rely on locally produced goods from nearby farms. There are also a lot of tea shops when you need a break from all the sightseeing!

By Astrid at The Wandering Daughter

While Birmingham might not be an obvious choice to spend a summer in England , it’s definitely a city not to be missed. Peaky Blinders fans will enjoy experiencing the city’s many filming locations. But even those who are unfamiliar with the show can find things to love in this unassuming city, including history, culture, and nature.

As the second-biggest city in England, Birmingham played a large role in the Industrial Revolution. This is primarily due to its close proximity to the Black Country, named because of its many coal mines. Because of the coal mines of the Black Country, Birmingham became the epicentre of industry and metal crafts.

The city is a fantastic destination for discovering unique information about science, history and technology. Visitors can learn about the area’s industrial history with a visit to the Black Country Living Museum, just outside of the city. And within the city, museums like the Pen Museum or the more popular Think Tank Science Museum offer insight into Birmingham’s industrial past.

Birmingham is also near Warwick Castle, a Medieval castle constructed by William the Conqueror in 1068. And nearby National Trust – Clent Hills is a beautiful location for hiking and camping.

The city of Birmingham is known for its non-conformist culture that’s often hard to describe. It lacks the sophistication and flash of London but possesses a realness that is refreshing for the traveller.

By Sarah at Cornwalls Best

Cornwall is England’s most south-westerly county and a superb place during the summer. The county’s magnificent sub-tropical gardens are in full bloom and are truly spectacular – you’ll want to make a beeline to the top gardens such as the Eden Project – the famous series of eco gardens in a reclaimed china clay pit, the Lost Gardens of Heligan and some of the National Trust favourites like Glendurgan.

Land’s End is also a must in Cornwall, it’s England’s most south-westerly point and a mythical location. Summer is perhaps the best time to visit the stunning Minack Theatre, near the village of Porthcurno in West Cornwall, this outdoor theatre was carved out of the rocks on the cliff face!

Summer, too, is also a great time to walk at least part of the South West Coast Path. This 630-mile track is the UK’s longest and best-loved National Trail and it follows much of the coastline of Cornwall across truly glorious landscapes. Cornwall is famous for food too. And you should plan to be here on June 29th, National Cream Tea Day. Remember, the correct way to eat your scone, jam, and cream is to put the jam on first.

Kielder, Northumberland

By Sarah at Northumberlands Best

Home to Europe’s largest manmade lake, and England’s largest forest, Kielder Water and Forest is a stunning place to visit in summer in the UK. Kielder is located in the most northerly county of Northumberland, England’s least populated county. It makes it a truly special place to visit.

There are some great water sports here – from sailing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding to kayaking. Add to that the miles of purpose-built trails for walking, hiking, horse-riding, and cycling and it’s an outdoor enthusiasts’ paradise. There’s even a 26-mile track that encircles Kielder Water itself. Wildlife is in abundance and it’s one of the only areas in the UK where you can see native red squirrels.

There are some great small towns around, like the popular Bamburgh on the coast and Alnwick further inland, but you’ll want to stay in Kielder to get the benefit of one of the best things to do in Kielder. As once darkness falls, Kielder is a stunning location for viewing the night sky, the area is a Dark Skies location.

The Kielder Observatory is located in Europe’s largest gold-tier dark sky park and on winter nights is a glorious place for viewing galaxies and nebulae, while summer is great for shooting stars and other amazing sights.

By Dymphe at DympheAbroad

One of the best places to visit in the United Kingdom in Summer is the city of London. This is the capital of the country, and there are many fun things to do and see there. For example, seeing famous sights such as Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and Big Ben. This is a lot of fun when the sun is shining in the city.

There are also several parks and gardens in the city that are great to visit in summer. For example, you can have a picnic at Hyde Park or go for a relaxing walk at the Kew Gardens. Also, there are many events during this time of year that you can attend. For example, Summer Lights is a festival that takes place at Canary Wharf. During it, you can see beautiful art installations.

Furthermore, there are outdoor movie theatres where you can see a movie while being outdoors during great weather. Also, it is great to relax at a rooftop bar in the evening when it is still light outside.

North Devon

By Joanna at The World In My Pocket

North Devon is like a small piece of heaven, with fantastic landscapes and plenty of hiking opportunities. North Devon is best visited in summer when you have the most chances for good weather, as most of the attractions of the area are outdoors.

One of the most beautiful seaside towns to visit in Devon is Clovelly, located in the North of the county. There is an £8 fee to enter the village, unless you are hiking to it, on the Coastal Path. It is however very worth it, as with the ticket you get free parking, as well as entrance to the local museum and fisherman’s house. The village alleys are very steep, and covered with stones, which contribute to its charm.

Another great thing to do in North Devon is hiking on the coast. A spectacular day hike is from Woolacombe Beach to Ilfracombe, another pretty fishing village. The path follows the coast offering dramatic scenery that you will want to photograph after every step. This is also a great place to spot seals, which like to chill on the stones below the cliffs.

When you visit North Devon you must enjoy a cream tea at a tea house with a view. The black tea is served alongside scones, clotted cream, and jam. The Devon way is to always have the jam on top.

The Isles of Scilly

By Jon at Backpacking Man Travel

If you’re looking for a sub-tropical paradise group of islands just off the coast of Cornwall, then The Isles of Scilly are waiting for you to visit.

This is the perfect destination in the summer as it has white sand beaches to relax on and great walks around the 5 inhabited islands. There are plenty of historic places to visit as well, such as the garrison and ancient burial mounds connected with an ancient village on St Mary’s Island, and Cromwell’s Castle on Tresco Island.

St Mary’s Island is the main island of the archipelago and is where you will find the most accommodation and food options. One good place to stay is at Mincarlo Guesthouse and a great place to eat for sunset views is Juliet’s garden.

On Tresco, there is also the Abbey Garden’s, famed all over the U.K. for its collection of sub-tropical plants that grow nowhere else in the country. A must-visit for garden lovers.

A must-do activity is to go snorkelling with seals at the Eastern Isles, with trips run there from St Martin’s Island. St Agnes Island has some epic views out onto the wild Atlantic Ocean and a boat trip out to the Western Rocks is great for wildlife enthusiasts as you can see many seals bathing on the rocks there, and the trip will also take you to Bishop Lighthouse, the furthest point west in Britain.

The final of the 5 inhabited islands is the laid-back Bryher Island where you can take slow walks out to places such as Hell’s Bay, where the wild Atlantic Ocean waves roll in to crash against the rocks.

The best places to visit in Scotland in Summer:

By Pamela at The Directionally Challenged Traveler

The best place to visit in the UK during the summer months has to be Edinburgh. The city comes alive with festivals and traditions throughout the summer. These bring artists, musicians, actors, and more from across the world.

Edinburgh’s festivals start in July but August is the real show. Festivals include the Edinburgh Art Festival, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Edinburgh International Book Festival, and the Edinburgh International Festival all take place in August. However, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is the main attraction. Musicians from around the world hope to perform at this incredible festival.

If you end up in Edinburgh and the UK in the other summer months, don’t worry there are still plenty of things to experience. Edinburgh is a city of history, with no shortage of beautiful buildings, inspiring museums, and of course, mouthwatering food!

Right in the heart of the city, you’ll find plenty of things to do on the Royal Mile . This road is actually a little over a mile and is home to so much history. From the towering Edinburgh Castle to the stunning St. Giles Cathedral, down to Holyrood Palace, there’s no shortage of Instagrammable photos! If you need a break from the city or the festivals, head to the Royal Botanic Garden for beautiful flora or hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city.

No matter what you decide to do, you’ll be glad you visited Edinburgh!

By Vidyut at Triplyzer

Located by the North Sea, St. Andrews is one of the most gorgeous destinations in Scotland . In summer, travellers are spoilt for choices, they have options from golfing to enjoying the beach and from hiking to having homemade ice cream.

This is the place where the game of golf was first played! There are several courses here but Old Course is the holy grail of them all. You can either take a guided tour or wander on your own on non-golf days. Don’t miss the Swilcan Bridge, a famous photo stop.

St. Andrews is also a university town, and it’s a delight to walk amongst the historic buildings. The grand St. Salvator’s Quad with its beautiful chapel takes the prime spot.

The city is also known for its beautiful beaches, the West Sands Beach is a popular choice, thanks to the pristine sand idle for walking.

St. Andrews Cathedral and St. Andrews are two medieval structures not to be missed. On the church’s ground climb up the 12th-century St. Rule’s Tower for sweeping views of the city. Though in ruins now, the imposing St Andrews Castle was once home to the Bishop. The more adventurous kind would love exploring the old tunnels and dungeons.

For foodies, the century-old Jannettas Gelateria is a famous spot for freshly made ice cream.

The best places to visit in Wales in Summer:

Pembrokeshire.

By Kieren at Wales Guidebook

Pembrokeshire in South Wales is an often overlooked staycation destination in the UK, but it shouldn’t be ignored. It’s a beautiful county with plenty to do, whether you’re looking for beaches, countryside walks or fun activities.

There are several historical sites to explore, not least Pembroke Castle which plays a key part in British history as the birthplace of Henry VII, the first Tudor to take the throne of England. Other castles to check out in the region include Carew castle which is nestled in the Welsh countryside and Manorbier Castle where you’ll find plenty of great walking trails.

Along the coast, Pembrokeshire National Park is the smallest of the three Welsh national parks but easily one of the best things to do in Wales , offering stunning views across rocky clifftops and sandy beaches. There is a walking route that goes along the entire coast of Pembrokeshire (and the rest of Wales) that is well worth including on your itinerary. You can choose how much of the route to walk and it’s suitable for dogs too.

There are over 50 beaches to choose from in Pembrokeshire including some great surf spots. If you’re a Potterhead, you have to check out Freshwater West beach. This is where you’ll find Shell Cottage and the filming location of Dobby’s death. There is even a memorial to everybody’s favourite house left on the beach today.

Snowdonia National Park

By Lowri at Many Other Roads

If you’re looking for an adventure that is both relaxing and exciting, Snowdonia National Park is the place for you. The park contains a wealth of natural beauty, from its highest peak in Wales to its incredible coastline. There are so many reasons why Snowdonia National Park is one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer.

Snowdonia National Park covers the region of Snowdonia in the Northern part of Wales.If you’re lucky enough to visit during summer, there are plenty of activities such as hiking and mountain biking that will be waiting for you!

Snowdonia National Park is a beautiful place to visit, whether you’re normally a city-dweller or an outdoorsy type. There’s something for everyone at this beautiful national park. Here are some of the best things to do in Snowdonia National Park over the Summer:

Visiting Wales’ highest peak is one of the most popular things to do without a doubt. You can take the train or climb to the peak of Snowdon. However, if the temperatures are high, you may want to do this early in the morning. Not only will you miss the crowds, but it will also make it so much easier. The breathtaking views alone make this so worth doing!

Wales has a rich history, and Snowdonia National Park is no exception. You can learn about the area’s history by visiting some of its many castles or historic monuments. One of the best Castles to visit is Harlech Castle.

Snowdonia National Park has no shortage of stunning Lakes. Llyn Llydaw and Llyn Gwynant are two of the most beautiful lakes in Wales, with crystal clear waters that you can walk around and even swim in if you fancy a dip!

There are endless places to explore in Snowdonia National Park. From its rustic villages and inspiring Castles, there is something for everyone. If you are looking for the best places to visit in the UK over the summer, add this destination to your must-visit list.

By Cath at Wales With Kids

One of the best places to visit in summer in the UK is Tenby in West Wales. This seaside town on the Pembrokeshire coastline is a popular destination, especially for Welsh families. With its medieval walls, pretty colourful seaside houses, a glorious beach and more, it is easy to see why so many people flock to this Welsh town.

As well as the usual seaside activities that can be enjoyed in and around its 2.5 miles of sandy beach, Tenby is conveniently located along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, a 186-mile long-distance walking path. Walkers and hikers of all abilities can enjoy the Tenby section.

Some of the 13th-century medieval town walls and their barbican gatehouses still stand and you’ll find lots of local shops within them as well as the usual high street shops. There are also traditional sweet shops, arts and craft shops, and more. There is a Tudor Merchant’s House to visit, run by the National Trust, a fabulous church, and a museum and art gallery.

Across the harbour, you’ll find St Catherine’s Island, the location of a 19th-century fort which can be visited at low tide. Just don’t get caught out or you’ll need to wait for the next low tide to return to Tenby.

There are also plenty of places to visit near Tenby if you are using it as a base, such as the rest of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, St David’s (Britain’s smallest city) is within an hour of Tenby, and Pembroke, with its great castle, lies just a short 20-minute drive from Tenby.

Tenby is a great place to visit in the UK during summer and can be the ideal base for exploring the wider West Wales area.

The best places to visit in Northern Ireland in Summer:

By Krystianna at Volumes & Voyages

One of the best places to visit in the UK in summer is none other than Belfast, Northern Ireland! While most people would go to Scotland, Wales, or England to celebrate a UK summer, Northern Ireland is truly overlooked and is filled with hidden gems.

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland and often serves as a common day trip from Dublin, as there’s a train route between the two cities. There are so many fun things to do in Belfast, even if you’re just there for 48 hours .

If you’re a fan of history, then you’ll love Belfast. The Titanic was built there, so one of the best things to do is visit the Titanic Museum, where you can learn all about its history.

Art fans will also enjoy Belfast. There’s a wide variety of street art throughout the city, especially in Cathedral Quarter. Be sure to also look out for the Salmon of Knowledge and the Beacon of Hope.

An absolute must-see in the city is also the Belfast City Hall. It’s impossible to miss due to its large size and is open for public tours at certain times of the week. Even just admiring its architecture of it from the outside is fun!

With some extra time, consider taking a day trip to nearby spots like Giant’s Causeway of Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. There are also really fun Game of Thrones tours from the city.

FAQs about spending Summer in the UK:

Where is the prettiest place in the uk.

As you can tell from this post, there are so many amazing places to visit in the UK during Summer. In fact, it’s impossible to narrow it down to just one spot.

What should I pack for a holiday in the UK?

Unfortunately, the weather in the UK tends to be extremely unpredictable. So much so that one minute you’ll be enjoying blissful sunshine and the next you’ll be whipping out your umbrella.

If you are travelling to the UK from overseas, know that you should pack for all seasons. Don’t leave home without your umbrella, raincoat and warm clothes. You never know when you may need them. Trust me.

What is so good about the UK?

This incredible country is bursting at the brim with charming villages, beautiful views and vibrant cities. From the picturesque Cotswold towns to the hustle and bustle of London, you could spend months in this part of the world without ever getting bored. As such, everyone should add a UK adventure to their travel bucket list.

Has this list of the very best places to visit in the UK in Summer given you all the inspiration you need? Let me know in the comments section below!

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Lauren Allen

After experiencing her first solo adventure overseas soon after graduating from university, Lauren has discovered a love of solo travel. The countries she visits often fuel ideas for her art and design work, which along with travel tips and guides, she loves to share with other like-minded art and travel enthusiasts on this blog.

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10 Best UK Cities to Visit This Summer

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Here's a concise list of 10 of the best cities to visit in the UK:

Bath is a city that has long been a cultural hub. Throughout the year, it hosts a variety of festivals, including live theatre, music, and literature. The city's history dates back to 1 AD when it was built as a Roman spa town. This Roman influence is still evident today, especially in the well-preserved Roman Baths . Don't miss the Thermae Bath Spa for a luxurious retreat with rooftop pools and stunning city views.

2. Edinburgh

As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of medieval history and modern culture. Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse showcase its medieval heritage, while the Fringe arts festival in the summer draws hundreds of thousands of tourists. For breath-taking views, hike up Arthur's Seat, the city's highest point. Edinburgh is also famous for The Elephant House, a coffee shop that inspired J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.

The iconic capital of England, London offers a plethora of attractions. From historic landmarks like the Tower of London , Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey to modern marvels like The Shard and the Sky Garden , the city is a blend of old and new. Families can enjoy the London Eye , Tower Bridge , and Madame Tussauds . London is a multicultural hub with diverse food, music, fashion, and world-class museums like the Victoria & Albert Museum .

Bristol, recently named one of the world's top places to visit, has much to offer. The SS Great Britain , a giant naval ship, is a historical gem with a museum and educational facilities. The city also boasts the Christmas Steps , a famous 17th-century lane lined with boutique shops and galleries. Stokes Croft, a bustling community area, offers great cafes, restaurants, and bars.

5 .Manchester

Manchester played a pivotal role in Britain's Industrial Revolution and is known for its iconic worker bee symbol. It's a city with a creative spirit, offering arts, crafts, fine dining, and shopping. Explore the Bohemian maze of the Northern Quarter , filled with galleries, cafes, and shops. Beech Road in Chorlton provides a laid-back atmosphere with outdoor dining terraces.

6. Brighton

Brighton is a bustling seaside destination nestled between the sea and Sussex countryside. The Palace Pier is a major attraction with exciting rides and arcade activities. Nearby, Sea Life Brighton offers insights into marine life. The city also has a rich history, with ancient narrow lanes and quirky shops, along with the world-famous Royal Pavilion, an exotic palace built for King George IV.

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, has embraced its role as a leading urban centre. The city offers a compact yet lively environment with museums, attractions, parks, live entertainment venues, restaurants, and more. Cardiff Castle , Cardiff Bay , and historical docks are some of its notable landmarks. The city also serves as a base for day trips to surrounding valleys and coastal areas.

York is steeped in Medieval history and heritage. Its most famous attraction is York Minster , one of the world's most immense Gothic cathedrals. The city offers interactive museums, such as the York Chocolate Story and York Castle Museum. Exploring the ancient city walls and wandering through narrow lanes with boutique shops is a unique experience.

9. Cambridge

Cambridge is known for its inspirational charm and grand architecture. With a world-leading university and over 30 colleges, the city offers world-famous museums, galleries, live entertainment festivals, theatres, and shopping centres. Punting along the River Cam is a must, allowing you to see the city's historic colleges from a unique perspective.

Oxford , the venerable seat of learning, showcases a millennia-old legacy. Its prestigious University , ancient colleges, and iconic libraries draw scholars and tourists alike. Architectural gems like the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera stand testament to its timeless allure. This city marries history and academia in a captivating embrace.

These cities in the UK offer a diverse range of experiences, from rich history and cultural heritage to modern entertainment and breath-taking scenery, making them ideal destinations for families and tourists seeking memorable adventures. Definitely all to be added onto your bucket list!

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UK tourism has seen a rise in recent years, and with travel restrictions easing, more families are expected to visit. This blog lists 15 top cities to visit, including Bath, Edinburgh, Norwich, London, Bristol, Manchester, Cambridge, and Brighton, each offering unique attractions and experiences.

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• 6 Loveliest Small Towns to Visit in Missouri This Summer

For a truly memorable Missouri summer experience, you can’t do much better than visit a few of the state’s loveliest small towns. These charming destinations not only offer a chance to enjoy an authentic slice of Midwest culture and hospitality but also to learn more about its history and the significant role the state played in America ’s westward expansion.

Summer is an ideal time to explore these small towns, with pleasant temperatures averaging in the mid-80s and long, sunny days that are perfect for outdoor fun and adventure. From festivals celebrating local heritage to opportunities for hiking, fishing, and water sports, these six lovely small towns to visit in Missouri come alive when the warm weather arrives.

Located on the Mississippi River in northeastern Missouri, Hannibal is best known as the boyhood home of Mark Twain . It was also the inspiration for two of his most famous novels, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn , a fact that has cemented the town’s popularity with fans of literature and classic Americana. Must-dos during a summer visit include visiting the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum with its exhibits relating to the writer's early life and inspirations, along with The Hannibal Riverfront with its scenic views of the Mississippi and fun Mark Twain Riverboat cruises.

Be sure to explore Riverview Park, a great spot for a picnic, taking some scenic photos of the mighty Mississippi, or going for an extended walk along the riverfront trails. Exploring the Mark Twain Cave to the south of town is another opportunity to check out a landmark featured in Twain's writings. The summer of 2024 sees Hannibal host its annual National Tom Sawyer Days festival around July Fourth with quirky Twain-related events including fence-painting and frog-jumping competitions, and a grand parade.

Hermann ’s location on the banks of the Missouri River makes it a very scenic spot for a summer getaway. Founded by German settlers in the 1830s, Hermann has a distinct European charm, which has even spilled over into its wine heritage. The Hermann Wine Trail is a must-do and features seven family-owned wineries offering tastings and tours. If there is only time for one, make it the Hermannhof Winery with its stone cellars dating back to the 1850s. History buffs will also want to visit the Historic Hermann Museum, just a short walk from the winery and housed in the town’s original 1871 German School Building.

Enjoy the great outdoors? Summer’s a great time to visit the area, with the Katy Trail State Park being a popular excuse to stop in and explore Hermann. America's longest-developed developed trail, this 240-mile route follows the railbed of the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad along the Missouri River and makes for a great summer hike with camping opportunities along the way.

Situated mid-way between the cities of St. Louis and Kansas City just off the I-70 highway, Boonville is another lovely town that benefits greatly from its location on the Missouri River. Named after Daniel Boone's sons who established cattle salt licks in the area, Boonville played a significant role in westward expansion, the Civil War , as well as the development of the country’s railways. The town's top attractions reflect the importance of the railroads, most notably Katy Bridge, a historic river crossing that’s being repurposed as a pedestrian walkway; and the Boonville Railroad Bridge which dates back to 1932 is also a photo-worthy landmark.

Enjoy watersports? Kayaking or canoeing adventures on the Missouri River are fun and can be arranged with local outfitters providing rentals and guided trips. Nearby Warm Springs Ranch, famous as the home of the Budweiser Clydesdales, offers tours during the summer months, while the annual Heritage Days festival in late June features historical reenactments, craft demonstrations, and live music. The Missouri River Festival of the Arts held in August is another great time to visit and attracts visual and performing artists from across the Midwest.

Ste. Genevieve

An hour south of St. Louis and on the west bank of the Mississippi River, Ste. Genevieve holds the distinction of being Missouri's oldest permanent European settlement . Founded in 1735 by French Canadians , the top attraction here is Felix Valle House State Historic Site, a preserved 1818 Federal-style home featuring exhibits relating to the town's founding. Bolduc House Museum, a National Historic Landmark , is another must-see for its early French colonial architecture.

Nothing says “summer has arrived" quite like a winery tour. Part of the Route du Vin wine trail, wine enthusiasts will enjoy wineries located close to Ste. Genevieve, including Brix Urban Winery & Market and Cave Winery. Time it right, and you may also get to join in the fun at the French Heritage Festival, a popular celebration of the town's French roots with music, dance, and traditional crafts. The Jour de Fête, held in August, is one of Missouri's oldest festivals with artisans and craftspeople from across the country participating. Outdoor adventurers will want to head to nearby Hawn State Park for its hiking trails through pine and oak forests, while Pickle Springs Natural Area features unique sandstone formations and waterfalls.

Excelsior Springs

Located just 30 minutes northeast of Kansas City, Excelsior Springs gained fame in the late 19th century for the healing qualities of its mineral waters. Fast forward to today, and this historic spa town continues to offer visitors the chance to mix a little wellness tourism with its small-town charm. Top attractions in Excelsior Springs include the Hall of Waters, an attractive Art Deco building that once boasted the world's longest water bar. Today, it serves as a cultural center and houses the town's visitor center, while the Excelsior Springs Museum and Archives provides insights into the town's heyday as a health resort.

Those seeking to stopover this summer should check out the rates at The Elms Hotel & Spa, a grand 1912 hotel with spa treatments and mineral baths. The summer of 2024 will see the town host the annual Excelsior Springs WaterFest featuring live music, food vendors, and family activities, while the Excelsior Springs BBQ & Fly-in on the River in August is also fun.

Located in central Missouri, Fulton is a small town with significant historical importance. It was here in 1946 at Westminster College that Winston Churchill made his famous " Iron Curtain " speech, an event that led to the phrase becoming synonymous with the Cold War that started between the West and the USSR . Little surprise, then, that the town's top attraction is America’s National Churchill Museum. In addition to a section of the Berlin Wall, it’s also home to the Church of St. Mary the Virgin, Aldermanbury, a 17th-century church from London that was relocated and rebuilt in Fulton.

A fun summer stroll can be enjoyed in the Brick District, Fulton's revitalized downtown area with its shops, restaurants, and galleries. For the ultimate summer experience, try to time a visit to coincide with the Fulton Street Fair.

Whatever you enjoy doing when summer arrives, there is no doubt Missouri's small towns will have something for you. From adventures on the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers to surprisingly good wines and outdoor adventures, these six destinations, Hannibal, Hermann, Boonville, Ste. Genevieve, Excelsior Springs, and Fulton, represent the best of small-town Missouri. As summer plans are made, be sure to include these loveliest small towns to visit in Missouri in your summer travel itinerary.

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Euro 2024 fixtures, schedule, teams, venues: All you need to know about summer tournament in Germany

Live group tables, third place standings and last 16 confirmed games; Knockout stages get underway on Saturday; England take on Slovakia on Sunday (kick-off 5pm); Euro 2024 final takes place in Berlin on July 14

Thursday 27 June 2024 13:56, UK

From fixtures and results to live group tables and the knockout bracket, keep track of the schedule at this summer's tournament.

Euro 2024 knockout fixtures

The schedule for the last 16 at Euro 2024 is now complete. Here's the current state of play with the group stage now complete:

It's time for the knockout stages...

The tournament now moves to a straight knockout format, with one-legged ties - including extra-time and penalties if necessary - until two sides reach the final on July 14 in Berlin.

Round of 16

Saturday June 29 37 Germany vs Denmark (Dortmund, kick-off 8pm UK time) 38 Switzerland vs Italy (Berlin, kick-off 5pm UK time)

Sunday June 30 39 Spain vs Georgia (Cologne, kick-off 8pm UK time) 40 England vs Slovakia (Gelsenkirchen, kick-off 5pm UK time)

Monday July 1 41 Portugal vs Slovenia (Frankfurt, kick-off 8pm UK time) 42 France vs Belgium (Düsseldorf, kick-off 5pm UK time)

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Tuesday July 2 43 Romania vs Netherlands (Munich, kick-off 5pm UK time) 44 Austria vs Turkey (Leipzig, kick-off 8pm UK time)

Rest days on 3 and 4 July

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Quarter-finals

Friday July 5 45 Spain or Georgia vs Germany or Denmark (Stuttgart, kick-off 5pm UK time) 46 Portugal or Slovenia vs France or Belgium (Hamburg, kick-off 8pm UK time)

Saturday July 6 47 Romania or Netherlands vs Austria or Turkey (Berlin, kick-off 8pm UK time) 48 England or Slovakia vs Switzerland or Italy (Dusseldorf, kick-off 5pm UK time)

Rest days on 7 and 8 July

Semi-finals

Tuesday July 9 49 Spain/Georgia / Germany / Denmark vs Portugal / Slovenia/ France / Belgium (Munich, kick-off 8pm UK time)

Wednesday July 10 50 Romania / Netherlands/ Austria / Turkey vs England / Slovakia/Switzerland / Italy (Dortmund, kick-off 8pm UK time)

Rest days on July 11, 12 and 13

Euro 2024 final

Sunday July 14 Winners of Game 49 vs Winners of Game 50 (Berlin, kick-off 8pm UK time)

• England's Euro 2024 fixtures and route

Euro 2024 groups and final standings

Group A - Germany, Scotland, Hungary, Switzerland

Group B - Spain, Croatia, Italy, Albania

Group C - Slovenia, Denmark, Serbia, England

Group D - Poland, Netherlands, Austria, France

Group E - Belgium, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine

Group F - Turkey, Georgia, Portugal, Czech Republic

Third-place table

Euro 2024 results

Group stage Friday June 14 Germany 5-1 Scotland

Saturday June 15 Hungary 1-3 Switzerland Spain 3-0 Croatia Italy 2-1 Albania

Sunday June 16 Poland 1-2 Netherlands Slovenia 1-1 Denmark Serbia 0-1 England

Monday June 17 Romania 3-0 Ukraine Belgium 0-1 Slovakia Austria 0-1 France

Tuesday June 18 Turkey 3-1 Georgia Portugal 2-1 Czech Republic

Wednesday June 19 Croatia 2-2 Albania Germany 2-0 Hungary Scotland 1-1 Switzerland

Thursday June 20 Slovenia 1-1 Serbia Denmark 1-1 England Spain 1-0 Italy

Friday June 21 Slovakia 1-2 Ukraine Poland 1-3 Austria Netherlands 0-0 France

Saturday June 22 Georgia 1-1 Czech Republic Turkey 0-3 Portugal Belgium 2-0 Romania

Sunday June 23 Switzerland 1-1 Germany Scotland 0-1 Hungary

Monday June 24 Croatia 1-1 Italy Albania 0-1 Spain

Tuesday June 25 Netherlands 2-3 Austria France 1-1 Poland England 0-0 Slovenia Denmark 0-0 Serbia

Wednesday June 26 Slovakia 1-1 Romania Ukraine 0-0 Belgium Czech Republic 1-2 Turkey Georgia 2-0 Portugal

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