Unusual city breaks in the UK

When it comes to unusual city breaks in the UK, Derby should be on your list. Check out the Cathedral Quarter for historic architecture and quirky shops, especially in the Strand Arcade. There’s history in spades here: the Museum of Making is located in the Silk Mill, widely considered the world’s first modern factory. For food, the city’s buzziest spot is Bustler, a huge street food market with a warehouse-chic vibe. There’s also Michelin-recommended dining at Darley Abbey Mill, plus loads of CAMRA-certified pubs. Saunter through the Arboretum, Britain’s first public park, or venture to the nearby Peak District for stunning scenery.

Over in Wales, St Davids has the feel of a charming village with fewer than 2,000 residents, but it’s technically a city thanks to its impressive cathedral. The sprawling church houses the shrine of Wales’ patron saint, a wonderful organ and intricate stained glass. Opposite the cathedral are the evocative ruins of the Bishop’s Palace, where you can feel the weight of history. For something more modern, Oriel y Parc Gallery showcases a constantly changing selection of landscape art. If you’re feeling more adventurous, take a boat trip to the nearby islands and spot puffins and seals galore. Afterwards, Pebbles Yard Espresso Bar is a lovely spot for refuelling.

Did you know Salford was a city in its own right? Despite being part of Greater Manchester, the settlement on the other side of the River Irwell has plenty to keep you within its borders. On the banks of the historic Manchester Ship Canal, the Quays are home to the BBC as well as the superb Lowry Galleries, which are free to visit and pay homage to the city’s most famous son. There are also more eateries here than you can shake a stick at. Down the road is the stunning RHS Bridgewater, a 156-acre garden that makes a great day out for all the family.

If you’re looking for unusual city breaks in the UK for couples, Norwich has romance aplenty with its beautiful historic centre and quaint cobbled streets. A stroll down Elm Hill is like stepping back in time, with Tudor shopfronts housing craft stores, galleries, tea shops and delis. Looming above the city is the 96-metre spire of the cathedral, a Norman masterpiece that boasts the largest cloister in England. Shopaholics will love the colourful awnings of Norwich Market, with stalls selling everything from baked goods to vintage fashion. Why not round off your visit with a romantic boat trip on the Norfolk Broads, setting off from nearby Wroxham?

Nestled on the coast in the Scottish Highlands, Inverness might not immediately come to mind for a cheap city break, but it’s a charming place with bags to do. The imposing sandstone architecture of Inverness Castle watches over the river, with a brand-new interactive experience set to open in 2025. Bookworms will want to visit Leakey’s, a magical, sprawling emporium with a roaring fire as its centrepiece. Come evening, head to award-winning MacGregor’s Bar for traditional music, whisky tasting and mouthwatering food. Don’t forget to take a detour to the world-famous loch, where you can enjoy a scenic boat cruise in search of the legendary monster.

For an action-packed couples’ break in the UK, put Belfast straight to the top of your list. The city is teeming with attractions including Titanic Belfast, an immersive experience that takes you on a journey from the building of the ship right here in the city to its tragic demise. On the other side of the River Lagan, the Cathedral Quarter is the place for a laid-back stroll – don’t miss the Instagram-ready “Umbrella Street”, then pop into the buzzing Duke of York pub for a pint with a side of traditional music. For those interested in the city’s troubling yet fascinating history, Crumlin Road Gaol vividly brings it to life.

Brighton offers a reliably fun weekend away for adults in the UK. Renowned for its indie charm and thriving nightlife, it’s perfect for a stylish getaway. Enjoy a cosy brunch in the quintessential alleyways of the Lanes before taking in the eccentric architecture of the Royal Pavilion, once the summer home of George IV. If the sun’s shining – or even if it isn’t – stretch your legs with a stroll along the seafront, which extends for miles and is home to attractions including the pier and the Brighton i360 observation tower, offering sweeping views of the English Channel and the South Downs.

The Lake District is a perennial favourite and the ideal spot for weekend breaks without kids in tow. With 16 picturesque lakes to choose from, you can opt for anything from a luxury hotel in Windermere to a secluded rural guest house. Hikers will love the vast variety of walking routes, which range from gentle saunters along flat lakesides to the epic peaks of Scafell Pike and Helvellyn. Whether you’ve tackled the slopes or not, you’ll want to treat yourself to a legendary Lake District afternoon tea, a smorgasbord of finger foods served with a refreshing cuppa.