2017 is upon us and we’re already looking forward to future travels for the year. If you’re not planning to go abroad in 2017, why not take advantage of all the diversity the UK has to offer. With fantastic cities bordered by stunning countryside landscapes and exciting locations to inspire every traveller, choosing the right city for you can be hard so we’ve taken a look and picked our favourite must-see destinations that are well worth a visit for the year ahead.
Bristol
A city with a rich maritime history, Bristol was once one of the country’s main trading ports. Take in some of that proud heritage by visiting the world’s first great ocean liner, Brunel’s SS Great Britain. Head further inland to the city centre to find Banksy’s Bristol, and explore the artist’s hometown on a tour of his earliest artworks. With Banksy’s work cropping up all over the world, including London, LA and New York, some of his most famous pieces of art still reside throughout Bristol. Once you’ve discovered the city, take a day to visit one of Bristol’s most iconic attractions, the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Ideally placed in the picturesque setting between the cliffs of the Avon Gorge, the bridge boasts incredible views from every angle.
Leeds
Standing in the middle of the beautiful Yorkshire countryside, the once industrial city of Leeds is now an exciting urban location, ideal for a much-needed city break. With impressive retail spaces like Trinity Leeds and the brand new Victoria Gate you can easily while away a day of leisure. Be a part of the recent independent upsurge in Leeds by visiting the country’s biggest indie food festival in May 2017. Home-grown and well loved, the festival celebrates everything independent from fine dining, to coffee shops and art galleries. For a change of scenery take the opportunity to hire a car and spend a day in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, or discover destinations like World Heritage Site Saltaire and the historic Harewood House.
Derry
Steeped in Northern Irish heritage and history, the walled city of Derry is perfect if you’re looking for a change of pace. Stroll along the 400-year old wall that surrounds the city, or visit the Guildhall with its impressive façade dominated by beautiful stain glass windows. Once you’ve taken in the beauty of Derry city, you will find yourself at the perfect jumping-off point to discover one of the Northwest’s most stunning destinations, the Inishowen Peninsula. With long stretches of Irish coastline to explore, nothing could be easier than hiring a car and taking a daytrip to the beach.
Glasgow
Named the UK’s City of Architecture and Design in 1999, Scotland’s largest city is teeming with magnificent Victorian buildings. Famously packed full of culture, style and live music, Glasgow is much more than just its beautiful surroundings. Spend the day roaming the Gallery of Modern Art, get a taste of the exotic at the Botanic Gardens or learn something new at the Glasgow Science Centre. Take a breather from the buzz of the city to visit Loch Lomond; less than an hour’s drive from the city, it couldn’t be easier to take a day of leisure and discover the rolling hills of Scotland.
Cardiff
As the birthplace of Roald Dahl it comes as no surprise that Cardiff has inspired us as a must-see destination this year. There’s plenty to keep you occupied in 2017, with an exciting line up of events like the Children’s Literature Festival in May. If you’re looking for adventure, the Cardiff International White Water provides a full itinerary of exciting challenges for both adults and children. For something more relaxing - involving a little less water - take in the beautifully restored Cardiff Castle located in the centre of the city. Once a Roman fort, the castle is now famous for its Gothic Victorian architecture and memorable banquet nights, where you can experience the best in Welsh hospitality, entertainment and food.
The New Year is a great time to start making travel plans for the next 12 months. With so much to see and do on our shores, this is the perfect time to start thinking about your own personal must-see list. From fast-paced shopping destinations, to relaxing historical havens and leisurely sweeping landscapes, let the UK inspire you to travel in 2017.
