Despite its small size, the UK truly does have so much to offer travelers; with each region steeped in history and culture.
It’s estimated that a whopping 41.7 million tourists visited the UK in 2018, attracted to the iconic landmarks and beautiful views.
Here are six surprising reasons why you should make the UK your next holiday destination.
1. The complex British history
History buffs will be in their element In the UK, as each country and city has a unique story to tell. A trip to a British Museum can tell you all you need to know about the union between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland (as well as the difficulty in coming to this decision).
Go back further and learn about Victorian Britain, or even about how people lived in medieval times. The British Monarchy is an iconic aspect of the United Kingdom and the extensive royal timeline is an interesting one to learn more about – many of the stories throughout history might shock and surprise you.
2. The UK is beautiful
Many people might complain about the rainy British weather, but the soggy conditions are responsible for the lush greenery and wildlife that you will see across the country.
The UK is the perfect road trip destination as driving through the Scottish Highlands or along the coast of Cornwall is an aesthetic adventure in itself. The landscapes are incredibly diverse – one minute you’re admiring sandy beach dunes and the next you’re taking in mountain peaks and domineering cliff faces.
Plus, the UK summer can actually be quite hot and nothing’s better than catching the good weather and spending your days lounging on the beach with an ice cream in hand.
3. British cuisine is delicious
Food in the UK is unlike any other in the world and you will be surprised at just how varied it is depending on which region you visit. A roast dinner smothered with gravy is the go-to dish on Sundays, with an extra Yorkshire pudding if they’re available.
If you find yourself in a seaside town, fish and chips is a popular meal, best eaten on the beach. Haggis is a specialty dish in Scotland and it tastes much better than it sounds.
If you have a wicked sweet tooth, a trip to an authentic British sweet shop should satisfy your cravings. A classic Cornish ice-cream cone also makes for a tasty sweet treat.
4. There are so many iconic landmarks to visit
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding which UK landmarks to visit as there are so many to choose from. In London alone, you have the choice between Big Ben (once it’s done being refurbished), Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and many more.
A lot of the UK looks like it has been plucked straight out of a fairy tale, as there are so many stunning castles and architectural wonders to visit. Windsor Castle and Stonehenge in England and Edinburgh Castle in Scotland are among the most popular picturesque landmarks to visit in the UK.
5. The UK is bursting with many different cultures
The UK has been described as a “cultural superpower” for its prominence in global media, theatre and music.
The UK was home to many literary greats, including William Shakespeare himself, as well as Thomas Hardy and Alfred Tennyson. It’s a hotspot for the performing arts, with many cultural festivals taking place during the summer months that allow people to express themselves creatively and take part in hobbies and events that they enjoy.
6. It’s a great destination for sport lovers
Sports are an essential part of the UK experience; if the locals aren’t playing it themselves then they will be watching a game in the pub. Even if you aren’t a fan of sports yourself, it’s worth attending a game for the atmosphere and sense of community that the passionate fans create.
Football is by far the most watched sports game in the UK, especially when it’s World Cup season. However, other sporting events prove to be popular in the UK, including Wimbledon tennis every summer.