best places to visit in uk for young adults

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Top 10 teen travel destinations in Britain

Quad biking, pizzas, axe throwing … great resorts where the kids will want to come, too

Another Place, Cumbria

A contemporary take on the traditional country house, Another Place is the sister property to the Watergate Bay Hotel and has much the same fun, contemporary feel. The hotel comprises a Georgian house and modern extension that opens on to 18 acres of grounds, complete with archery field. The lakeside location means kayaking, SUP and sailing are all on offer, with excellent mountain-biking trails nearby and a sizeable indoor pool. The all-day menu in the Living Space means hungry teens can eat whenever they want, with its Rampsbeck restaurant offering an adults-only option for dinner. Doubles from £240 B&B; another.place

Moonfleet Manor, Dorset

This cream-coloured 18th-century pile on the Dorset coast is guaranteed to please the most sullen of teens. For younger ones, take your choice from ping pong to pool, air hockey to wall climbing, trampolining to tennis and a spot of archery in the garden. If lounging is what they’re after, older teenagers can join you in the indoor pool and even persuade you they completely deserve that Elemis beauty treatment or manicure. Literary teens should appreciate its gorgeous location, overlooking the sea and part of the 18-mile long sliver of desolate shingle that is Chesil Beach, lending its name to Ian McEwan’s novel. Venture up the coast for fossil trips to Charmouth and Lyme Regis or head to nearby Hive Beach for a crab sandwich at their cafe or eEat at Moonfleet’s pretty conservatory restaurant where their pickiest whims should be satisfied with a range of comfort food and lots of vegetarian options. The bedrooms offer old-school comfort with feather down beds and elegant claw-foot baths for long teenage soaks. Good luck getting them down in time for breakfast. Doubles from £109 B&B; moonfleetmanorhotel.co.uk

Malmaison, Brighton

Brighton is made for teenagers – stomach-churning rides on the pier, vegan-friendly cafés in the bohemian North Laine area, good shopping and chips with everything. Staying at the Malmaison – slotted into the city’s gleaming marina – means being able to dip in and out of the centre, but still enjoy Brighton’s other big draw, the sea. On a sunny day, the terrace bar overlooking the boats feels positively Ibizan, and there are plenty of watersports to try, from SUP to fishing and sailing. Rooms are slick, unfussy and super-comfortable and the in-house brasserie will suit burger-loving teens. Doubles from £119; malmaison.com

Bluestone Resort, Pembrokeshire

Spread across 500 acres, Bluestone is a great choice for families looking for an active break, with everything from axe-throwing to coasteering and off-roading on offer, alongside aerial climbs and walkways in the giant Serendome . Less outdoorsy teens can join a samba drumming workshop or amble over to the village centre for coffee at Ty Coffi . A programme of festivals and outdoor events runs throughout the year, and the three restaurants, pub and bar mean that even the fussiest eater is catered fo. Three-nights from £589; bluestonewales.com

Crieff Hydro, Perthshire

This sprawling, much-loved Scottish resort, set in 900 acres of unspoilt countryside, has a huge range of activities that will keep even the choosiest teen happy. Outdoors, in the Action Glen, there’s quad biking, archery, air-rifle shooting and a tree-tops course along with a huge range of watersports on nearby Loch Earn, as well as an excellent café for refuelling. On rainy days, Glen’s Den will keep teens happy with its games zone with air hockey, Xbox, a VR machine and all the popcorn they can eat. Rooms include family apartments and studios, and there are seven restaurants. Doubles from £197 B&B; crieffhydro.com

The Fish, Worcestershire

There’s something of a festival vibe at this quirky hotel, a cluster of shepherd’s huts, houses and more conventional hotel rooms scattered through the 400-acre Farncombe Estate. It’s a safe environment for teenagers to explore on their own with walks from the door – and plenty to do on wet days, including a games room with pool table, table football and Sky Sports, and a cinema. Alongside the more formal Hook restaurant, the Sliders bar menu offers teen-friendly burgers, and the legendary breakfasts are a great start to the day. Doubles from £180 B&B; thefishhotel.co.uk

Bingham Riverhouse, Richmond

A jaunt to London is a great option with teens, but central hotels can be eye-wateringly expensive, unless you settle for a Premier Inn. The Bingham Riverhouse, in leafy Richmond, has a hip locals vibe that older teens will love – and offers them the freedom of walking into Richmond to explore the shops on their own. The hotel has partnered with Active360 Richmond to offer bespoke paddleboarding tuition, and has Pashley bikes to hire for exploring the Thames path and nearby Richmond Park. Doubles from £135; binghamriverhouse.com

Watersmeet, Devon

Newly renovated and fast becoming one of Devon’s best hotels, Perched above picturesque Combesgate beach, Watersmeet is an easy 10-minute walk from the buzzy resort of Woolacoombe. Steps from the hotel lead down to the beach, which rarely gets busy and is ideal for body-boarding. Surfers can follow the South West Coast Path that runs behind the hotel, for the easy stroll into Woolacoombe. If the sea is too chilly for a dip the hotel has both indoor and outdoor pools, and alongside the formal main restaurant, there are simpler meals on offer in the bistro. Doubles from £170 B&B; watersmeethotel.co.uk

Watergate Bay Hotel, Cornwall

There are few better places to learn to surf than the two-mile stretch of beach at Watergate Bay – and few better places to stay than the hotel that sits above it. Rooms range from family suites and apartments to beach lofts, all furnished in a cool, contemporary style. The Extreme Academy, just outside the door, offers surfing lessons for all levels, and after a day in the water, the hotel’s Living Space is a lovely, chilled-out area offering everything from sharing platters to Japanese ramen. Doubles from £210 B&B; watergatebay.co.uk

Runnymede Hotel

Fitness-focused teens will find much to love here, with daily alfresco exercise classes, tennis lessons, a huge outdoor pool and the chance to paddleboard along the Thames from right outside the hotel door. Interconnecting rooms and duplex suites cater for all ages, and dining options include the River Hideout – a cluster of beanbags and deckchairs scattered around an Airstream trailer serving hot drinks and ice-cream, with pizzas and hot dogs also on the menu. The hotel has a small fleet of boats, allowing guests to explore the river at their own pace. Doubles from £215; runnymedehotel.com

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15 Absolute Best Cities to Visit in the UK (+Map & Travel Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

The United Kingdom’s rich and vibrant culture make its cities among the most fascinating to visit in the world. Whether you’re looking for stunning architecture, world-class museums, or the cool vibe of contemporary art and music, you’ll find it all in the best UK cities.

However, with so many great cities throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (the four countries of the UK) it can be difficult to decide which ones to visit in a limited amount of time.

So in this guide, we list the very best cities to visit in the UK that are worth your time the most . For each city, we include the main attractions that you simply must see. We also listed a few extras that are well worth visiting if you have enough time. For each town, we also indicate how much time you need for a visit.

Good to know: The great thing about visiting the UK is its small size and good transport links. This makes it quite easy to travel from one part of the country to another. Furthermore, quite a few of these cities can also be visited with organized tours from London (or other nearby towns). So if you plan well, you can visit several of these UK towns in one trip.

To help you plan your trip and see several of the nicest cities and towns in Great Britain, we asked our writer Christine, a UK local, to share the best places and tips for your visit. We also created a map indicating each town. That way, you have a better idea of where everything is and can plan your trip accordingly. Take a look!

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

These are the most beautiful cities in the UK that are worth a visit the most:

London really has to be number one on any list of the best places in the UK! And there are so many reasons to visit the nation’s capital. Located on the banks of the River Thames, London is the country’s financial center, the seat of the Government of the United Kingdom, and home to the Royal Family.

All of this is reflected in its magnificent and historic architecture and a huge variety of things to see and do.

The diversity of London’s population is evident in its wonderful food scene. From traditional British food in local pubs, the finest cuisine in world-famous restaurants, to the ethnic street food in its many markets, London has it all. London also offers some of the very best shopping in the world. You’ll find designer stores, vintage boutiques, eclectic craft fairs, and quirky markets all over the city.

If you want to escape the bustling streets, museums, and galleries, London has some very beautiful and tranquil green spaces too. Don’t miss the scenic Hyde Park! If you have more time, visit the lesser-known Kew Gardens, with its stunning collection of tropical flora and fauna. London is truly a city that offers something for everyone.

Must see: The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace (don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ), Westminster (including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament), Tower Bridge, the London Eye , the British Museum, St Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square (home to Nelson’s Column), and Piccadilly Circus. Thames Cruise is also a must.

Nice to see: Greenwich , Hyde Park, Covent Garden, Kew Gardens, Borough Market, Camden Town & Camden Lock Market , National Gallery, Harrods, and Oxford Street. If you are visiting London with kids , don’t miss Madame Tussauds , the Natural History Museum, Leicester Square stores, and the Royal Mews. Also, don’t miss at least some of the best views in London !

How much time do you need. You can quickly see the major sites with just one day in London . However, if you want to be able to visit a few places inside and get a good feeling of the city you really need two days in London . To fully appreciate all of London’s major sights, visit a few of them inside, and check out a few different neighborhoods, you will need at least 3 to 4 days.

If you want to experience the diversity of attractions across the city, discover some of London’s hidden gems , or take a day tour to Windsor Castle or a day trip to other popular places near London , you can easily spend a week or even more.

Where to stay: Best areas to stay in London for first time .

Travel tips: Please see London travel tips for more information for planning your trip.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in London (Must-See!)

2. Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh is truly a tale of two cities! It has a New Town – packed with modern shops and trendy eateries – on one side, and a historic Old Town on the other.

The imposing Edinburgh Castle – one of Europe’s oldest fortified places – overlooks the entire city. Surrounding it are rolling green hills which often draw a comparison with Rome. Indeed Italy’s capital, like Edinburgh, was said to have been built on seven hills. Its neoclassical architecture, along with its reputation for philosophy and learning, have earned Edinburgh the nickname of the ‘Athens of the North’.

Edinburgh has a rich history, awesome views, incredible green spaces, and several world-class museums and galleries. In contrast, it also has an intriguingly dark past that you can learn more about by exploring its creepy kirkyards (churchyards) and a fascinating underground street that shows you just what life used to be like in the city.

Scotland’s capital is also known for its many festivals, including the world-famous Hogmanay at New Year.

Must see: Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat (for the views), the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, National Museum of Scotland, and Royal Yacht Britannia.

Nice to see: Royal Botanic Gardens, St Giles’ Cathedral, Princes Street Gardens, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions (nice views of the city), Scottish National Gallery, The Real Mary King’s Close.

How much time do you need. Given the city’s relatively small size, it’s possible to see the main sights of Edinburgh in 1 day , but it would be quite a rush. We recommend 2-3 days to take in and fully appreciate everything the city has to offer.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

3. Cambridge

Cambridge is probably best known for its University (the world’s 4th oldest surviving university). Which is home to more winners of the Nobel prize than any other university in the UK.

Cambridge is also a beautiful town, with lots of well-preserved historic buildings that are mostly centered around its 31 (!) colleges. Cambridge has some world-famous Alumni too. 14 British Prime Ministers studied here, world-famous physicist Stephen Hawking, and many others who have made a real impact on the world.

A must-do in Cambridge is taking a punt tour along the beautiful River Cam. Punt is a traditional flat bottomed boat and a very typical thing to do here. The river runs through the heart of the city offering great views of the ancient architecture of the city.

Being a student town, this medieval city still has a very modern vibe too. So there’s plenty of music, festivals, and a strong performing arts scene. There are several art galleries exhibiting everything from the classics to contemporary works. And you’ll find some lovely, quirky shops to buy souvenirs.

Must see: King’s College Chapel, Queen’s College and the Mathematical Bridge (built without nails), Trinity College (and other collages if you have more time), Fitzwilliam Museum, Great St Mary’s Church (climb to the top of the tower for incredible city views), the River Cam and punting tours .

Nice to see: The Botanic Garden, Angelsey Abbey, Wren Library (the Trinity College Library where you can see Newton’s “Principia Mathematica”; it’s only open between noon and 2 pm on weekdays, and Saturday morning), the Round Church, the Bridge of Sighs, The Backs (behind the colleges).

How much time do you need. You can see much of Cambridge within one full day, and it’s also possible to visit with a tour from the capital . But to give yourself time to browse the main museum and to go punting along the River Cam, it’s worth planning two days for your visit.

Of all the cities in the UK, the wonderful, walled city of York boasts the most attractions per square mile. Although it has all the modern shops and amenities you’d expect from a major UK city, the main appeal of York is in fascinating history.

As you wander the cobbled, medieval streets – some with beautifully preserved buildings from the 14th and 15th centuries – you can also see hints of its Roman roots and signs of Viking influence.

Among its many attractions, York has 30 museums, the UK’s best racecourse, and festivals on an almost monthly basis.

The city’s Cathedral – York Minster – is one of the largest in Europe. You can enjoy some incredible views of the city from the top. You can also view the city from the water by taking a boat trip along River Ouse or on Foss River. Another fun thing to do is learn about the history of chocolate-making at the place where the famous UK confectioners Terry’s and Rowntree were founded.

Must see: York Minster (formally known as the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter in York), the 14th century City Walls (you can walk along the top), National Railway Museum, the Shambles (one of the world’s best-preserved medieval streets), views along the River Ouse and river cruises .

Nice to see: York Maze, York Castle Museum, Castle Howard, York’s Chocolate Story, Clifford’s Tower (great views), York Racecourse.

How much time do you need. You can see the highlights of York in a day, but we recommend 2 full days to see things at a more leisurely pace. If you want to also explore the Yorkshire region, plan a few days extra. See the best suggestions for places to see via the link below.

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from York

Whilst it may have an interesting history and plenty of period architecture to admire, Glasgow is hip and happening. So much so that it is sometimes referred to as ‘Scotland’s city of cool!’.

A mecca for creativity, Glasgow has a strong art scene. You’ll find unique and original products sold everywhere from the city center to its cobbled lanes. You’ll also see impressive murals on walls throughout the city, depicting various figures who have played a large part in Glasgow’s culture.

There are several excellent museums, an architecturally stunning Cathedral, and a full-size sailing ship to explore. Many of Glasgow’s attractions are free to visit, making a visit here much more affordable than in many other UK cities.

There are also some beautiful green spaces throughout Glasgow to sit and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find that locals are more than happy to share stories with you of their beloved home. In fact, Time Out magazine once named Glasgow as ‘first for friendliness’. The warmth it extends to its visitors is the reason that Glasgow remains one of the UK’s most popular destinations.

Must see: Glasgow Cathedral and the adjacent Necropolis, Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery, Riverside Museum, and The Tall Ship.

Nice to see: George Square, Gallery of Modern Art, Scotland Street School Museum, Botanic Gardens, Celtic Park Stadium , the Science Museum, University of Glasgow, Hunterian Art Gallery & Museum.

How much time do you need. Glasgow is relatively compact and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. So you can see the very best of Glasgow in a day (see below for more information). But because there is so much to see and do in the city, we recommend planning 2-3 days here. If you have a day to spare, you can also make some really nice day trips to Loch Ness and see some of the Scottish Highlands.

READ ALSO: How to See the Best of Glasgow in One Day

Located in the county of Somerset in south-west England, Bath is famous for its Roman ruins. The city is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bath grew around its ancient Roman baths. Nowadays, you can still experience bathing in Britain’s only natural thermal hot springs at the modern Thermae Bath Spa.

In addition to museums and galleries, there is a great deal of beautiful architecture to enjoy in the city. From the individual honey-colored Georgian buildings to the neo-Classical style of many of its public buildings, Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK!

Bath’s iconic sights, such as the Circus and the Royal Cresent, have become world-famous thanks to TV and film. Some of Jane Austen’s works discussing city life were based on the five years she spent here. Much of the architecture is still just as she described it. A visit to Bath truly feels like taking a step back into history.

Must see: The Roman Baths, Bath Abbey (take the Tower Tour and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city), Royal Crescent park, The Circus, Pulteney Bridge.

Nice to see: River cruises , Thermae Bath Spa, the Jane Austen Centre , No. 1 Royal Crescent (museum), Fashion Museum, Royal Victoria Park, The Museum of Bath Architecture.

How much time do you need . It is possible to see all the main sights of Bath in half a day to a day. This makes Bath one of the most popular day trips from London , often in combination with Stonehenge and Windsor Castle . However, a lot of the city’s charm is to be found in the evening. So if you have the time, stay a little longer and include an overnight stay in your visit.

Belfast is Northern Ireland’s capital and largest city, but it is still relatively small compared to the other capitals. Nevertheless, there is a lot to see and do here. The close proximity of all its attractions makes it easy to see Belfast’s main sights in a short amount of time.

The city where the Titanic was built, Belfast has several excellent museums that look back over its shipbuilding past. You’ll also find museums celebrating its connection to the linen industry. And – more recently – Belfast’s time of political upheaval (known as The Troubles).

Alternatively, you can head to the lively Cathedral quarter with its lovely Victorian architecture and cobbled streets. It’s a popular place with an ever-developing pub and restaurant scene.

Belfast’s historic market gives you the opportunity to buy some authentic arts, crafts, and souvenirs whilst enjoying some stirring live music. Throughout the city, you can see some incredible street art, with hundreds of murals depicting all sorts of key moments in Belfast’s past.

Must see: Titanic Belfast , St George’s Market (every Friday/Saturday/Sunday), Belfast City Hall, Crumlin Road Gaol, Ulster Museum.

Nice to see: Stormont (the home of Northern Ireland’s Parliament), Queens University, Botanic Gardens, C.S Lewis Square, St. Anne’s Cathedral, Cave Hill Country Park (for the excellent views).

How much time do you need. We recommend planning 2 days in order to see all of Belfast’s main attractions. In addition, you can take a day tour to Giant’s Causeway , which is not to be missed when visiting here!

8. Liverpool

Liverpool’s main claim to fame is as the birthplace of the Beatles. If you’re a fan, it’s a great place to visit the city where the band started and drew their inspiration. But there’s so much more to this city that makes it a fantastic place for anyone!

Liverpool is located on the River Mersey. One of the nicest things to do is walk around the docks, which are teeming with cool boutiques, fantastic eateries, and lively bars. The streets of the modern city center are filled with shoppers and street entertainers. But there is lots of history and culture to explore too, with more museums and galleries than you’ll find anywhere else outside London.

Liverpool really comes alive at night! So make sure to stay the night. Dine at one of the many fine restaurants, ending the evening with live music at the iconic Cavern Club. This is the venue at which the Beatles performed nearly 300 times.

READ ALSO: The Beatles in Liverpool (Best Places to See)

Must see: The Cavern Club, the Beatles Story , the Royal Albert Dock, World Museum, Liverpool Cathedral, Mersey River Cruises .

Nice to see: Tate Liverpool, Anfield Stadium , Sefton Park, Western Approaches WWII Museum , Liverpool Library, British Music Experience , Museum of Liverpool, Strawberry Field , and the views from Royal Liver Building 360 .

How much time do you need. You will need 1-2 days to see Liverpool’s main sights. If you are a Beatles fan and want to be sure to see all the Beatles-related exhibitions and tours, then you may even need 3 days in the city.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & How to visit Liverpool from London (travel info & 1-day itinerary)

Oxford is best known for its university which was established in the 12th century. It’s one of the oldest and most famous universities in the world, and so many of the city’s attractions are related to it.

There are 38 separate college buildings and their architecture is incredible! You should definitely see the Christ Church with its impressive Hall (Harry Potter fans will instantly recognize it!) and Cathedral. The gardens of this cathedral are said to have inspired Lewis Carroll’s ‘Alice in Wonderland’.

This beautiful English city was also used as a filming location for some scenes in the Harry Potter movies. While you can probably spot a few of them on your own, fans should really consider a walking tour of the filming locations .

Oxford also has a few interesting museums, a nice riverside ( sightseeing cruises are available), and even its own ‘Bridge of Sighs’, Hertford Bridge. It connects two parts of Hertford College allowing students and professors to quicker travel between different parts of the university.

Must see: Oxford University with the Bodleian Library and some of the oldest colleges (Christ Church College, All Souls College, Magdalen College, Keble College), Radcliffe Camera, Ashmolean Museum, and Hertford Bridge.

Nice to see: Oxford University Museum of Natural History, University Church, Sheldonian Theater, Oxford Castle and Prison, The Pett Rivers Museum. Boat trips are also nice to do, especially in the warmest months.

How much time do you need. You can see many of the main landmarks in Oxford in half a day to a day. With two days, you should be able to cover most of the best attractions in Oxford.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Tips for Traveling to Europe

10. Cardiff

The Welsh capital, Cardiff is quite small in size. It only takes about 15 minutes to cycle from one side to the other. But it has a lot to offer its visitors! With a 2000-year-old castle and more green space per capita than any other UK city, it offers lots of opportunities for scenic strolls. Make sure to explore the banks of the River Taff which runs through its beautiful Bute Park.

Just outside the city center is Cardiff Bay. Here, you can visit the seat of the Welsh Government or enjoy everything from cultural attractions to boat trips. Cardiff is a quirky, vibrant, and creative city with numerous music and arts venues and an up and coming culinary scene.

Cardiff is also known to sports fans for its world-famous stadium, the home of Welsh rugby, and the venue for Britain’s Speedway Grand Prix. You can enjoy a meal and a drink at a sports bar and restaurant Elevens Bar And Grill, which is owned by professional footballer Gareth Bale.

Must see: Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Bay, Principality Stadium, St Fagans National Museum of History, National Museum, Wales Millenium Centre.

Nice to see: Bute Park, Roath Park, Castell Coch, Cardiff International White Water Centre, the Senedd (the main building for the National Assembly of Wales), Spillers Records (the oldest record shop in the world). Doctor Who tours (popular TV series filming locations) are also very popular.

How much time do you need. Because of Cardiff’s compact size, you can see the best of its attractions in 1-2 days. But there is much worth exploring on its outskirts. So you might want to give yourself an extra day to venture outside the city center.

11. Nottingham

Nottingham is another really nice city that’s worth your time when touring the UK! This city’s imposing, wide streets and scenic parks have earned it the nickname of the ‘Queen of the Midlands’. However, to most of us, Nottingham will always be the home of the legendary outlaw Robin Hood!

Boasting its own castle, a magnificent cathedral, a network of underground caves, and the vibrant Lace Market – teeming with independent cafes, restaurants, and bars – Nottingham is a city with something for everyone.

Yet just minutes away from its center you can enjoy the serenity and beauty of its green spaces. You can also venture a little further into the enormous Sherwood Forest, home to Robin Hood and his Merry Men.

Must see: Nottingham Castle , Wollaton Hall and Park, City of Caves, Old Market Square (Slab Square), Robin Hood Way & the Sherwood Forest.

Nice to see: National Justice Museum, the Arboretum, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem (believed to be England’s oldest pub), Nottingham Contemporary Art Gallery, Highfields Park, D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum.

How much time do you need. You can see most of Nottingham’s main sights in one full day. For a more relaxed experience (especially if you plan to include a trip out to Sherwood Forest), plan two days for your visit.

12. Manchester

Probably best known for its Premier League football teams, Manchester has a lot more going on than football! Located in the northwest of England, the city has a rich industrial past, but nowadays, you’ll find a vibrant place where history and modern-day life go hand in hand.

Manchester is a lively city with a warm atmosphere and plenty to see and do to suit all interests. You’ll find some world-class museums, beautiful architecture, great dining and shopping, and lots of fun activities for young and old. 

Be sure to explore the city center and visit some of its historic landmarks! Manchester Cathedral is an absolute must-see, just as John Rylands Library. For contemporary architecture, head to the Quays, where you’ll find the impressive Imperial War Museum North and The Lowry cultural center. River cruises are a great way to explore this part of town as well!

It would be unthinkable to visit Manchester and not check out at least one of its major football stadiums – Old Trafford, home to Manchester United F.C. or Etihad Stadium, home to Manchester City F.C. In addition, the city is also home to the National Football Museum, the largest football museum in the world.

Must see:  City center, Manchester Cathedral, one of the football stadiums , John Rylands Library, and Science and Industry Museum.

Nice to see:  National Football Museum , Imperial War Museum North, Salford Quays, river cruises , People’s History Museum, Manchester Art Gallery, and Castlefield conservation area.

How much time do you need.  It’s possible to see the main sights of Manchester in a day , but you won’t be able to explore much deeper. If you want to visit a few museums and do some shopping as well, you could easily spend 2-3 days here.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Manchester

13. Norwich

Norwich is a historic city in the heart of rural East Anglia. It was medieval England’s largest walled town. Because of its isolated location, Norwich was virtually bypassed by the Industrial Revolution. So the town has retained many of its medieval Churches and Tudor architecture. All this makes it a truly fascinating place to visit!

A UNESCO City of Literature, Norwich is also the only city in England to be located in a national park (the Norfolk Broads). It boasts a beautiful nature reserve with a river running through the city and an impressive Romanesque cathedral with scenic, peaceful grounds.

Thatched buildings and brightly colored merchant’s houses are just some of the historic sights that give the city its unique and ancient character. You’ll also find cozy pubs dotted everywhere, serving the finest craft beers and ales.

Must see: Norwich Cathedral, Norwich Castle, Norwich Market. Norwich Quayside. Outside the city – Blickling Estate.

Nice to see: The Forum, Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Plantation Garden, Strangers Hall, City of Norwich Aviation Museum, Norwich Guildhall.

How much time do you need. You can see the main sights of Norwich in one day.

14. Bristol

Bristol in the southwest of England is one of the country’s coolest cities. The home town of famed UK street artist Banksy has a strong reputation for creativity. Ultra-modern museums and trendy restaurants make it a fun and lively place to visit, particularly around the port and harbor area which is full of bars and cafes.

But the city has an interesting history, too, with stunning ancient churches, a cathedral, and galleries. Perhaps most fascinating of all is Bristol’s seafaring links. It was the birthplace of the notorious pirate Blackbeard and inspired parts of the famous maritime novels Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe.

There are some lovely green spaces to explore in the city. Or you can choose to get away from the crowds by taking a boat trip along the River Avon. from the water, you can admire the unusually brightly colored buildings and houses that overlook it.

Must see: Bristol Cathedral, Waterfront, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, Clifton Suspension Bridge (looks great at night too), SS Great Britain, Brandon Hill Park & Cabot Tower (great views from the top).

Nice to see: St Mary Redcliffe church, Bristol Zoo Gardens (the 5th oldest zoo in the world), At-Bristol Science Centre, Queen Square. Also, Avon Valley Railway and Blaise Castle Estate (outside the city).

How much time do you need. Bristol is a relatively small city but has lots to see and do. You can cover the highlights in a day, but you need at least 2 days to enjoy it properly.

15. Brighton

The coastal city of Brighton is one of the UK’s most diverse places to visit. It offers everything from vintage seaside attractions to Bohemian markets and Victorian architecture. The city has Britain’s biggest gay scene and some of the best independent shops and boutiques, largely concentrated around the iconic Lanes.

Its pier – packed with rides and entertainment – is one of the biggest attractions in the southeast of England. Brighton even has an exotic palace, Royal Pavilion, that would look more at home in India or China than on the UK’s south coast!

Brighton is also a great UK city for foodies. You’ll find everything from traditional British fish & chips to the finest cuisine at gourmet restaurants. There are lots of bars and eateries lining the pebbled beach, which immediately gives you a vacation feel.

You are never far away from the raw beauty of nature either. Brighton is perfectly positioned to enjoy stunning walks along the England Coast Path. Be sure to visit the white cliffs of Seven Sisters and South Downs nearby!

Must see: Brighton Palace Pier, Brighton Royal Pavilion and Gardens, Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, British Airways i360 Viewing Tower, The Lanes, North Laine.

Nice to see: Regency Square, Brighton Marina, Brighton Toy and Model Museum, Brighton Beach and Promenade, Old Steine Gardens, Brighton Festival (3 weeks every May).

How much time do you need. You will definitely need at least 3 days in Brighton. There is so much to do in Brighton that you could easily spend 5 days in the city, especially in summer.

So, this is our guide to the best, most beautiful cities in the UK.

As you can see, there’s so much more to the UK than just its cities! But even if you visit just a few of these, you’ll get to know a very different country than just by visiting London!

TIP: If you are looking for a more ‘local’ city/ beach holiday in the UK, check out Blackpool . It’s one of the most popular seaside resorts in the UK! Here you can learn all about what there is to see and do in Blackpool . Check it out!

More travel tips and inspiration for all over the UK:

• Must-see in London:  Top London Attractions
• Different London :  Hidden Gems of London  &  Best Views in London
• Good to know:  London Travel Tips & Best Areas to Stay in London
• With kids:  London with Kids  &  Family Afternoon Tea in London
• Greenwich:  Best Things to Do in Greenwich
• Cornwall: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Yorkshire:  Yorkshire Day Trips
• Blackpool: Best Things to Do in Blackpool & Tips for Visiting Blackpool & Best Day Trips from Blackpool
• Scotland:   Isle of Skye  &  Scotland Whisky Tour
• Edinburgh:  Top Edinburgh Attractions  &  One Day in Edinburgh
• Glasgow:  One Day in Glasgow

READ ALSO: Traditional British Food & Where to Try It in the UK

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Photos: Personal collection and Depositphotos.com. Additional credits: Featured image: TTstudio/Shutterstock.com// Cardiff Bay – photo by phil_bird/Depositphotos.com// Belfast Titanic – photo by zhuzhu/Depositphotos.com// Beatles – gianliguori/Depositphotos.com// Cambridge Bridge of Sighs – chrisdorney/Depositphotos.com// Cambridge University – Umdash9/Depositphotos.com// Manchester Castlefield – cowardlion /Depositphotos.com//.

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Thursday 21st of September 2023

Go to Southampton if you want to see nice cruiseships and the New Forest is very close too.

Tuesday 1st of August 2023

Thank you for sharing useful information ...

Saturday 5th of August 2023

Glad to help. Have a great trip!

Saturday 11th of February 2023

I can't believe Birmingham is not on the list, it's the most underrated city in the UK, perhaps it's because once the heart of the Indudtrial Revolution the slums of back to back houses were there until the 1970's, and its maze of run down underground canals. Most canals have now been restored with many nice bars and restaurants on the side of the canals, in and outside the City. It's a compact City Centre that is easy to walk around. The Art Gallery is one of the best I have ever been in, and each time I'm in the City I can't resist going in there, and it is free to go around, unlike in Venice where you have to pay and is nowhere near as interesting as Brums Art Gallery. For those who like to shop it is a City Centre renown for its Bull Ring Shopping Centre. Eating and enjoying Asian food, there is no-where better in Europe. But go and see the City for yourself. The only thing is traveling into the City by train looks awful, but don't judge the book by its cover. Brum has everything, and is a multi cultural City. I live in Spain these days but my heart is in Birmingham, and it's surroundings Remember Stratford upon Avon is only 20 miles away. 👍👍

Sunday 12th of February 2023

Thanks for your suggestions and tips. I'm sure it can be helpful for some of our readers who are looking for even more cities to explore in the UK. Happy travels!

Jessica Fletcher

Sunday 22nd of January 2023

London does not belong on any list of good cities, end of story. Miserable people, ugly buildings, expensive, nothing worthwhile to see except contrived tourist fodder and obscene wealth. One of the worst cities I've ever been to and I've been to most of the major towns and cities in the UK. Otherwise a great list! Glasgow is one that surprised me a lot, considering its bad reputation but it was surprisingly beautiful and the people were very friendly and down to Earth.

@Jessica Fletcher, Jessica you need to use the underground and look around different parts of the City. London is steeped in history and has something for all tastes..Dont be put off by being expensive. There are a lot of reasonably priced places just be adventurous and seek them out. Including places to stay.

Friday 10th of February 2023

@Jurga, now you know second person 😅 as I just hate London, anytime I have to go there it is a nightmare for me.

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Wow, that's a strong opinion about London, Jessica. You are literally the first person I ever 'met' who doesn't like London. I guess that just proves that everyone is different and likes different things. And that's ok. We all have our experiences and our opinions. For us, London is one of the most interesting cities in the world. No matter how many times we go back, there's always something new and exciting to discover, and so many amazing places everywhere you look. Perhaps you should give London a second chance and look beyond the main tourist attractions... We have a 'hidden gems' guide with some suggestions ;). Happy travels!

Friday 13th of January 2023

cardiff and Oxford do not deserve to be in that list, no where near as good as the others!

Sunday 15th of January 2023

Ha ha, we literally just added Oxford to this list because quite a few people thought it deserved a mention. :) And many of our American readers absolutely love it as a day trip from London too. I guess everybody has their own opinion and I'm sure our readers can make their own decisions on which places look the most interesting to them. Happy travels!

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The 35 best things to do in the UK

World-famous landmarks, incredible music festivals and some unexpected gems: this is our pick of the best things to do in the UK right now.

The United Kingdom is a glorious destination, and the four countries that constitute our island nation all bring something to the table. England , Northern Ireland , Scotland and Wales are all stunning places to visit in their own right, with fantastic museums and galleries , buzzing music scenes, incredible scenery and intriguing histories. 

Whatever kind of trip you’re planning next, our round-up should have you covered. We've got all the world-renowned stuff as well as some more under the radar things to get up to. Happy travels! RECOMMENDED: 🧙 The most  mystical places in the UK 🏰 The best  castles in the UK 🏖️ The best seaside towns in the UK 👀 The best  new things to do in the UK 2024

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in the UK

1.  Check out Time Out’s top place to visit in the UK in 2024

Bristol's  cultural scene is just as exciting as  London ’s, but it’s still only a short coach journey away; it has picture-perfect streets and bustling, diverse nightlife. And i n 2024, its arts offering is only getting better. There's  DIASPORA! , Undershed , a new immersive gallery on track to launch in Spring, Boxhall  – a street food, beer and events space by the same people who behind London’s  Boxpark  – and  Bristol’s newest music festival,  Forwards , which is being headlined by Loyle Carner and LCD Soundsystem. 

Discover the best places to visit in the UK in 2024

2.  Pitch up at a world-famous music festival

Festivals don’t get much more famous than Glastonbury . The UK’s biggest music festival takes over a chunk of Somerset countryside most summers with mud, music, mischief, hippies and healing. It’s difficult to convey quite how vast Glasto is, with whole worlds of activity taking place beyond the stages as well as an awe-inspiring musical line-up ranging from pop to reggae to rock to dubstep to metal to folk to techno. If you’re lucky enough to bag a ticket, bring an open mind, a sense of humour and a jumbo pack of baby wipes.

Discover our full guide to Glastonbury Festival 2024

3.  Climb the UK’s highest peak

Lace up your walking boots to take on Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in mainland Britain, at 1,345 metres above sea level. There are two main routes up – the Mountain Track, which is used by most walkers or Carn Mor Dearg Arête, a more challenging ascent for experienced scramblers and hill walkers which can take more than ten hours to complete. If you really love heights, consider taking on the National Three Peaks Challenge. Plan your own or join an organised event to climb Snowden, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis, the highest mountains in Wales, England and Scotland, usually within 24 hours.

Discover the best hikes in the UK

4.  Party all weekend at Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill Carnival – the annual celebration of London’s Caribbean community, its culture and traditions – is Europe’s biggest street party. It takes place every August bank holiday weekend on the roads around west London, transforming the area into one huge, packed, pulsating party. The carnival, which runs over two days (Sunday is family day), features a colourful parade, fantastic live music, thumping sound systems, soca floats, steel bands and a whole lot of delicious Caribbean food.

Discover our full guide to Notting Hill Carnival

5.  Follow in the footsteps of giants

The Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland is a geological marvel. The dramatic coastal feature, made up of 40,000 basalt stone columns, has attracted visitors for centuries, but it became Northern Ireland’s first and only Unesco World Heritage Site in the 1980s and now also boasts a great visitor centre thanks to the National Trust. There are no museum ropes holding you back here. Wander over the shiny stones, sit on the Wishing Chair – a natural throne polished by thousands of bottoms – look out for rock formations the Camel and the Giant’s Boot. The result of volcanic eruptions over 60 million years ago or the remains of a pathway built by a giant? You decide.

Discover the best things to do in Northern Ireland

6.  Get lost in a town of books

When it comes to literary tourism, Hay-on-Wye is a real bucket list spot. It  proudly proclaims to be the world’s first ever book town and is famed for its annual book festival that has attracted the likes of Hillary Clinton, Dua Lipa and Stormzy. With over 30 bookstores, this is a bibliophobes mecca. If you had to go to just one, make it Richard Booth's – a three-storey emporium of new and used books spread over three glorious floors.  

Discover the best things to do in Wales

7.  Take a tour of the UK’s incredible National Parks

The UK might be small but its countryside is mighty and incredibly diverse, from rolling green hills and ancient woodland to impressive mountain peaks, idyllic lakes and rugged moors. To see all the different kinds of landscapes the UK calls its own, take a tour of the UK’s 15 national parks, from the flat Norfolk Broads and the wilds of Exmoor to the high drama of the Lake District and Snowdonia  and the internationally recognised dark skies of Northumberland.

Discover the most beautiful national parks in the UK

8.  Come up with your own conspiracy theories at Stonehenge

The world-famous prehistoric stone circle on Salisbury Plain attracts millions of visitors a year, but its popularity doesn’t detract from its intrigue. Were these imposing standing stones – bluestone from more than 150 miles away in Wales – a celestial calendar, a burial ground or a site for sacrifice? Was it built by Merlin the wizard and a band of giants? Are its origins supernatural, or even extraterrestrial? Or just an incredible feat of human will? Visit to figure out what you think the true story of the monument is.

9.  Visit The Beatles’ childhood homes

Get a ticket to ride around the city The Beatles called home. Liverpool is the place the Fab Four met and started performing. Learn about their incredible musical career at The Beatles Story before visiting Mendips and 20 Forthlin Road, the childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, now managed by the National Trust. Finish off your visit with a night out at the rebuilt Cavern Club which sits near where The Beatles first started to play in the early ’60s.

Discover the best things to do in Liverpool

10.  Catch some Cornish waves

It may not have the white hot sands of Miami, but Cornwall is one of the best surfing destinations in the world (and we're not just being biased). And Fistral Beach in Newquay is widely thought of as the jewel in Britain's surfing crown. First timer or wave-riding veteran, this natural playground has opportunities for anyone to give surfing a go. The Cornish coast is also just really, really beautiful. 

Discover the best things to do in Cornwall

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UK and Great Britain Tours for Young Adults

Explore UK and Great Britain with other Young Adults. These 26 tours include popular destinations like Edinburgh and Dublin.

26 trips for '18 to 30 Somethings' in UK and Great Britain with 3,879 reviews

Highland Fling

Tour was great overall! Alistair and Karis were great guides. One critique we would make: at certain points of the tour, Alistair mentioned: "outdoor style tours" (hiking trails, camping, etc). While we have no issue with these types of tours, the majority of our tour consisted of people over the age of 60 (possibly not the "ideal market" for those kinds of tours). When we booked the tour, we were unaware there was an option to book a hotel instead of staying in a hostel; my dad and I were both uncomfortable staying in a hostel room with women. After 2 nights in a hostel during the tour, we booked a room at a separate hotel.

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

5 Day Skye & Highland Fling

My trip with my wife was so amazing. Our tour guide Branka was so fascinating, funny, informative, and interesting. Each day was a true adventure, following both an itinerary and improvising based on weather, location and time of day. We met really cool people on the tour and had fun with them when we had some free time to roam around. Cool part was you can hang with them or just do your own thing with no problem. This trip was one my wife and I have never done before. Yet I would certainly recommend it for those who want to experience a unique and fun trip filled with awesome adventures throughout Scotland!

• In-depth Cultural

Play & Pause: Britain & Ireland

• Coach / Bus

3 Day Isle of Skye

Was a fantastic trip and managed to fit a lot into a three day tour! Really enjoyed it and definitely came at the perfect time. Hope to come back to Skye again as so much I probably didn't see. The tour guide Neil was superb and his knowledge of the area and the tales told on the journey elevated this trip. Thanks for a perfect January break!

10 Day Wild Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

Our tour guide Lee Jones was amazing! He was very educated about everywhere we went. He always looked out for everyone on the tour. I enjoyed all his stories and all the history he educated us on! I would recommend Lee for all my friends who want to do a Irish tour!

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

7 Day Atlantic Way Experience - Small Group Tour

My friend and I booked the 7 day Atlantic Way tour this fall to mark our milestone birthdays and had a fabulous time during the trip. When our flight to Dublin the day before the start of the tour was cancelled and we were delayed by a day arriving to Dublin, we contacted Sean. He was understanding and reassuring which was so comforting and helped to ease our stress. He helped arrange to have the tour guide, Anthony, and the rest of the group meet us when we arrived late. Anthony was so patient with the delay and the rest of the group was welcoming and understanding when we met up with them. It was really nice to have a small group to travel with. It helped to be able to get to know everyone better than it would have been on a larger tour. Our week was packed full of amazing sights, history and opportunities to experience local culture. Anthony made a point of sharing some suggestions and recommendations of additional activities, restaurants etc when we arrived in each location. He was a wonderful guide for our group. Very knowledgeable and engaging. The accommodations were comfortable, cozy and well situated within walking distance of restaurants and pubs in all the places we visited. I would most certainly recommend this tour to anyone who is looking for a smaller group experience in Ireland that stops at many must see locations.

• Christmas & New Year

Karis was a very good guide and a very skillful driver, I was very disappointed in the accommodation provided by Haggis Tours. I only realised that it is a budget tour company and expected to stay in a dormitory but I did not expect to stay in a hostel that I would have stayed in in the 1980s. The standard of hostels has improved a lot since then. At nearly 76 years old I did not find the accommodation at all comfortable.

• Festival & Events

Hogmanay (5 Days) (from London to Edinburgh)

We were on the Portugal and Spain tour with Kassie Jones as our tour director. We found her to be efficient, friendly and accommodating. Kassie always made sure we saw the best of everything and also through in some surprise extras. If you ever have a chance to take a tour with Kassie, go for it you won't be disappointed! Mike & Trish (Florida)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Hogmanay (5 Days)

3 Day Loch Ness & Skye

I really enjoyed this tour! Our tour guide Tim knew al lot and told us funny stories. We visited so many beautiful places. The hostels we stayed in were clean and comfortable.

8 Day Castles & Coast Experience - Small Group Tour

AMAZING TOUR! Loved every second of it and can't wait to go back to Ireland! Kieran and Lee were our guides and can't say enough about their knowledge and their helpfulness. Thank you!

13 Day Full Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

I took the 13-day Full Irish Experience tour and had a wonderful trip. The group was small with nice, like-minded travelers. The small bus was fantastic; spacious enough so everyone could have their own seat if they chose yet maneuverable in the tight Irish lanes. It was great to be able to travel where the large buses couldn’t go. The tour included many of the must-see sights and there was plenty of time for individual exploration and optional activities. Our guide/driver was humorous, knowledgeable and entertained us with loads of Irish music during the drives. He was also able to secure us tickets to Celtic Steps in Killarney which was a highlight. The hotels chosen were all nice and centrally located. This tour was great value for the price. I recommend this tour and this company if you’re visiting Ireland. I also recommend spending a couple of days before and/or after the tour in Dublin. There’s lots to see in the city and the public transportation is good.

7 Day Ultimate Atlantic Adventure – Small Group Tour

Overall the tour was a great experience. The scenery on the west coast was amazing and we got to see some great attractions. My husband and I upgraded to have our own room. The beds at the first location (near Westport)were awful but the staff was very friendly. The second location was much better - they even took everyone's individual breakfast order the night before. The ferry ride to and from the Aran islands was horrible - very rough. I have never seen so many people throwing up. The bus we rode in was very comfortable but leaked in a few places when it rained. But it wasn't a big deal. Shaun was great. Very informed about all of the places we visited and about the history of Ireland. If we had more time I would have loved to do a longer tour. I would definitely recommend this tour.

Isle of Skye & Hebridean Hopper

was a fantastic tour, Connor was amazing as a driver and tour leader, was well planned out - accommodation could be a bit better as some of the hostels were a bit ropey and maybe some breakfast thrown in but otherwise fantastic. Thank you Connor.

Wild Skye & Loch Ness Hunter

It was incredible experiencing the amazing land, History, and people! Teigan is so fun and knowledgeable with her story telling y& games she plays with us. She did a great job! I recommend taking off Touradar that meals are included, because they are not. It also would need nice to have that one last night of accommodation too!

What people love about UK and Great Britain Tours for Young Adults

Tom is a great guide. Would recommend the tour.

the tour was fantastic. you have seen and experienced so much. a dream for every Scotland fan

Loved it! Great way to see what the highlands have to offer.

More Tours in UK and Great Britain for Young Adults

• England and Scotland tours (5)
• Scotland tours (11)
• Ireland tours (8)
• One week in England and Scotland (for Seniors) 2024/2025
• Solo/Single tours (588)
• For Couples (341)
• Budget tours (62)
• Luxury tours (57)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Großbritannien-Gruppenreisen für junge Erwachsene
• Français: Circuits Royaume-Uni et Grande-Bretagne pour les Jeunes adultes
• Español: Circuitos en Reino Unido y Gran Bretaña para adultos jóvenes
• Nederlands: Verenigd Koninkrijk en Groot-Brittannië Rondreizen voor Jongeren

95 brilliant things to do in London with teens (2024)

London is a brilliant city to discover at any age but for teens there really is so much going on, no matter what you’re interested in. From historical sights and incredible museums (including lots of lesser well known ones) to entertaining and educational tours , there are plenty of ways to enjoy London’s main attractions .

Elsewhere there is excellent theatre , fantastic shopping and lots of daredevil activities for those teenagers that like their sightseeing to be that little bit more active. There are great markets, fun classes, lots of Instagrammable destinations and plenty more! Here’s our pick of the best things to do in London for teens .

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I have been or could be if you click on a link in this post compensated via a cash payment, gift or something else of value for writing this post. See our full disclosure policy  for more details.

The best of London with teens

Table of Contents

London is jam-packed full of historic monuments and significant landmarks detailing London’s history as well as modern sights showcasing the best of London today. Here are some of our favourites for teens to discover.

The Globe Theatre

The original Globe Theatre was built in 1599 by Shakespeare’s playing company. It was destroyed by a fire in 1613 A second Globe Theatre was constructed in 1614 but was closed in 1642. Today’s Globe Theatre opened in 1997 and is a replica of the historic playhouse; a 360 degree auditorium with no roof over the central courtyard.

As well as staging works by Shakespeare, the theatre stages new writing, music concerts, film screenings and more. Guided tours of the theatre take place every week Thursday – Sunday. 

Where: 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, SE1 9DT. Mansion House is the nearest tube station. 

Need to know: The theatre is open to the elements to make sure to dress accordingly!

British Library

The British Library is a great way to spend a rainy day in London with teens. Founded in 1753, the library is home to the King’s Library where some of the world’s most important and rare texts are stored, including a copy of the Magna Carta.

Where: 98 Euston Road NW1 2DB. Kings Cross is the closest tube station. 

Need to know: The library often holds interesting exhibits and events too. 

Sky Garden 

The Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden with terraces filled with Mediterranean and South African plants. The garden also offers 360-degree views over the city – even better, it’s completely free ! You just need to book tickets in advance. 

Where: 1 Sky Garden Walk, EC3M 8AF. The closest tube stations are Bank and Monument. 

Need to know: Children under 16 are not able to enter Sky Garden after 6pm on weekdays and 9pm on weekends.

London is home to some incredible theatre . The capital city is home to more theatres than any other city in the world, which means you can catch a show any day of the week. Some of the most popular shows in the West End include Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, the Lion King, Wicked and Hamilton. 

Tickets can be bought online or at the venue directly. The TKTS London booth in Leicester Square is a good place to go for same day discount tickets and good deals. Here are some ideas for a pre- or post-theatre meal .

Trafalgar Square

Designed in 1830 to commemorate the British victory against Spanish and French fleets in the Battle of Trafalgar, today Trafalgar Square is one of London’s top attractions and a fun place to visit in London with teens. As well as being home to the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery , the square is often where rallies, demonstrations and sometimes concerts are held – it’s a hub for events such as Pride.

Where: Trafalgar Sq, WC2N 5DN. Charing Cross is the closest underground station.

Need to know: If you are in London at Christmas then you’ll see the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square, an annual gift from the people of Norway to say thank you for Britain’s support during WWII. 

Take a boat down the River Thames to Greenwich for a day exploring this neighbourhood, home to the Cutty Sark ( once the fastest tea clipper in the world), the National Maritime Museum and the Old Royal Naval College . It’s also home to Meridian Line , which provides the perfect photo opportunity! 

Take a trip to Abbey Road, one of the most famous streets in London , and recreate the iconic album cover from The Beatles. The crossing is actually located at the southernmost point of Abbey Road , at the junction with Grove End Road in St. John’s Wood. 

Where: St John’s Wood underground station is the closest tube stop.

Need to know: The postcode for the Abbey Road recording studios is NW8 9AY but if you’re having trouble finding the road, just look for the crowds of people!

Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the city’s most famous sights . Filled with stories of torture, treason, and execution – not to mention the odd ghost – the tower is a must-visit for any teen who enjoys the more gruesome parts of history . The Yeoman Warder Tours are a great way to explore the tower – Yeomans have guarded the tower for over 500 years or book a private tour.

Where: Tower of London, EC3N 4AB. Tower Hill is the closest tube stop or have a look at Citymapper (one of the best apps for London ) for more travel options.

Need to know: Don’t forget, this is where the Crown Jewels are also held!

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the banks of the River Thames and the largest cantilevered observation wheel in Europe. It’s a hugely popular attraction and a spin in one of the 32 pods that amble gently around is a great way to see the London skyline . 

Where: Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PB. Waterloo, Embankment, Charing Cross and Westminster tube stations are all nearby.  

Need to know: Pre-book online and save up to 20%

Best museums in London with Teens

There are more than 170 museums in London and many of them are free. In addition to the most famous – we’re talking about you the Natural History Museum – there are some lesser known museums that are perfect for teens. Here are some of our favourites:

Cartoon Museum

Discover the best of British cartoon art at the Cartoon Museum in Fitzrovia. The museum houses over 6,000 original cartoon and comic artwork and a library of over 8,000 books and comics and is a must for any teenager with an interest in comics and animation. The permanent collection includes wartime cartoons, modern satirists including Ralph Steadman and original Rupert Bear artwork from 1921. Exhibitions and events are held throughout the year. 

Where: 63 Wells Street, Fitzrovia, W1A 3AE. The closest tube is Goodge Street.

Need to know: The museum is closed on Mondays. Entry is £8.50 per adult. Under 18s are free but teens require proof of age ID.

Old Operating Theatre

The Old Operating Theatre Museum is Britain’s oldest surviving purpose-built operating theatre and a wonderfully kooky place to visit in London with teens.

Located in the attic of the early eighteenth-century church of the old St Thomas’ Hospital, the theatre has been restored and furnished with original furniture and equipment. Learn all about the types of surgical procedures that would have taken place in this operating theatre almost 200 years ago – without anaesthesia!

Where: The Museum is located on St Thomas Street between Borough Market and the Shard. London Bridge is the closest tube station.

Need to know:  Access is via a 52-step spiral staircase. The museum is open Thursday-Sunday from 10.30am until 5pm, with last admission at 4.15pm. Adults £7.50; children 6 – 16 £4.50; children under 6 free.

HMS Belfast

Teens with an interest in history will love visiting the HMS Belfast. Explore all nine decks of the incredible HMS Belfast and learn all about the inner workings of the ship that was used during both the Korean War and World War II. 

Where: The Queen’s Walk, SE1 2JH. London Bridge is the nearest tube station.

Need to know:  HMS Belfast is open Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm, last entry 4pm. From 1 April 2022, the museum will be open daily. Adults £25; children aged 5 – 15 £11.35. 

Anyone with an interest in the military should head to North London and the Royal Air Force Museum . This excellent museum is home to 80 aircraft on display as well as a flight simulator, a multi-media account of the Battle of Britain and the chance to sit in the cockpit of a Spitfire – plus more! 

Where: Grahame Park Way, NW9 5LL. The museum is a short bus ride from Colindale underground station.

Need to know:  The museum is a little out of town but well worth a visit. Regular events take place during school holidays.

Churchill War Rooms

Hidden beneath Westminster were the Cabinet War Rooms that formed the nucleus of Winston Churchill’s wartime strategies. These rooms are where Britain coordinated and organised its fight against the Nazis during WWII. The rooms have been preserved as they were in 1945 and offer a fascinating insight into this period in history. The war rooms are today part of the Imperial War Museum . 

Nearby is the St Ermin’s Hotel , which became a central point for the British Intelligence Services during the Second World War. You can enjoy afternoon tea there while you soak up the history. 

Where: Clive Steps, King Charles Street, SW1S 2AQ. St James’s Park and Westminsters are the closest underground stations.

Need to know:  Check the website for ticket prices. The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday 9:30am to 6pm, last entry at 5pm.

British Museum

The British Museum is the world’s oldest national public museum . It was founded in 1753 and its doors first opened in 1759 (that’s 17 years before the American colonies declared their independence from British rule!). 

The museum is an Aladdin’s Cave of artefacts from around the world and is a fascinating place to visit in London with teens. Among its treasures, you’ve got bits of the Greek Acropolis , the Rosetta Stone, a burial helmet from Sutton Hoo and an Easter Island statute. 

In addition to the permanent exhibitions there are regular temporary exhibitions. Plus, they host sleepovers at the museum too! 

Where: Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG. The museum is located between Holborn, Tottenham Court Road, Russell Square and Goodge Street tube stations. 

Need to know:  There is free entry to the museum; exhibitions are charged for.

Tate Modern

Got a budding artist on your hands? Then head to the Tate Modern.

The permanent collection at his vast museum on the Thames showcases over a hundreds years of art from the birth of modernism in the early 1900s to works being created today. There are regular temporary exhibitions too; some of the most popular in recent years have included Andy Warhol and Olafur Eliasson. It’s worth visiting the museum to see the Turbine Hall – and whatever installation is currently in place – alone.

Where: Bankside, SE1 9TG. London Bridge, Southwark and Waterloo underground stations are all close by.

Need to know:  The museum is open daily from 10am – 6pm. You can catch the Tate Boat , which runs from the Tate Modern to Tate Britain.

V&A 

Sometimes overlooked by families visiting London owing to its more traditionally ‘family-friendly’ neighbours the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum, the V&A is well worth a visit. The museum is one of the world’s leading museums of art and design.

Some of the more weird and wonderful pieces in the permanent collection include ‘Tiptoe’s Tiger’, a barrel organ that is shaped in the form of a Western oppressor being attacked by an Eastern tiger. Consider that you’ll also see a 3D-printed gun from 2013 on display and you get an idea as to how varied the collection is.

The V&A also host excellent temporary exhibitions that are usually a great way to spend an afternoon in London with teens. Previous successes have included an exhibition dedicated to Frida Kahlo and an Alice in Wonderland exhibit.

Where: Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL. South Kensington and Gloucester Road are the nearest tube stations. 

Need to know:  The museum is free to visit; exhibitions are charged for.

Madame Tussauds

Unbelievably Madame Tussaud’s first opened in 1835 (yes, really!) and the museum has been leaving visitors star struck ever since. Hundreds of lifelike models from the worlds of music, fashion, politics, history, movies, sports, royalty and fiction now fill the museum’s halls including personalities such as Harry Styles, Jessica Ennis-Hill, Madonna and her Royal Majesty the Queen 

Where: Marylebone Road, NW15LR. Baker Street is the closest underground station.

Need to know:  Book online and save up to 10% off your tickets.

Science Museum

The Science Museum is easily one of London’s best museums. Located next door to the Natural History Museum, it’s seven floors of out-of-this-world exhibits. It’s home to the oldest display of clocks and watches in the world; the Apollo 10 command module and flight simulator live here; and there’s an IMAX cinema showing scientific films in 3D.

Where: Exhibition Road, South Kensington, SW7 2DD. The nearest tube station is South Kensington followed by Gloucester Road.

Need to know:  No experience necessary, beginners and coding experts alike are welcome. The event is free but numbers are limited so you should register in advance. 

Fashion and Textile Museum 

Fashion forward teens will enjoy the Fashion and Textile Museum in Bermondsey. Founded by colourful fashion designer Zandra Rhodes, this pink and orange museum is the only museum in the UK dedicated to showcasing contemporary fashion and textile design. As well as the exhibitions, the museum holds talks, workshops and short courses. 

Where: 83 Bermondsey Street, SE1 3XF. London Bridge is the nearest underground station.

Need to know:  The museum is open Tuesdays – Saturdays, 11.00 – 18.00 with last entry 45 minutes before closing.

The Barbican

The Barbican Centre is a performing arts centre, the largest of its kind in Europe. The centre hosts everything from classical concerts and contemporary dance to talks and workshops, and cinema screenings. For young adults there is the Young Barbican programme , which allows discounted access to art and entertainment as well as access to programmes and workshops.

Where: Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS. The closest tube stations are Barbican, Moorgate and St Pauls. 

Need to know:  The Young Barbican programme is aimed at 14 – 25 year olds.

Design Museum

Want confirmation that your teens think you’re really old?! Head to the Design Museum where the permanent exhibition examines the development of modern design and includes plenty of products from your youth such as a SONY Walkman and a VCR.

Where: 224-238 Kensington High Street, W8 6AG. The closest tube is Earl’s Court.

Need to know:  The Design Museum is free to visit but the temporary exhibits are chargeable.

Sherlock Holmes Museum

Located on Baker Street, one of the most famous streets in London, the Sherlock Holmes Museum is housed in the home of the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes (author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle made this address the detective’s residence from 1881 to 1904).

Today you can wander around the rooms, which are filled with authentic Victorian furniture and knick knacks belonging to the iconic detective – and his adversaries!

Where: 221b Baker St, Marylebone, NW1 6XE. Baker Street is the nearest tube station.

Need to know:  Open Tuesday – Sunday 10 am – 5pm. There is always a queue outside the museum so be prepared to wait!

Best adrenaline activities in London for Teens

London delivers when it comes to daredevil activities – these are some of the best.

Climb the O2 Arena, Greenwich

The O2 Arena in London’s Greenwich Pensinula in southeast London is a multi-purpose arena where concerts, sporting events and theatre is held. For something a little different, however, you can take a walk with your teen across the roof of the arena.

Various walks are offered including a daytime climb, a sunset climb or a twilight climb, and every one allows visitors to walk across the dome and see some of the best views of London while you do it! 

Where: Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX. North Greenwich station is the closets underground station.

Need to know:  Pre-booking is essential. Check the website for availability and prices.

ArcelorMittal Orbit

Not only is the ArcelorMittal Orbit the UK’s tallest sculpture (it’s 114.5-metres high), it’s also home to the world’s longest tunnel slide. Located in the heart of the Queen Elizabeth Park in east London, this epic slide is made up of 12 twists and turns including the ‘bettfeder’, a tight corkscrew that translates as the ‘bedspring’. 

Where: The ArcelorMittal Orbit Is located in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford. The closest underground station is Stratford Station. From here it’s a 10-minute walk to the slide. 

Need to know:  Pre-booking is recommended. There is a 1.3m minimum height requirement to ride the slide.

The Dare Skywalk, Tottenham 

Another great place in for adrenaline junkies is the Dare Skywalk along the roof of Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium . The 90-minute Dare Skywalk takes visitors to the top of the largest club stadium in London. The highlight is the glass walkway positioned 46.8 metres above the pitch, just above the penalty spot. 

Where: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium 748 High Road Tottenham London N17 0AP

Need to know:  Pre-booking is advise, check the website for details.

Rock climbing at the Castle

Located in North London is The Castle, the UK’s largest climbing Centre . Housed within a Victorian former pumping station – that really does look like a castle! – the centre has 450 routes and 90 roped lines. They also offer bouldering options.

The Castle runs regular weekend and school holidays taster days and multi-activity day camps suitable for novice climbers. 

Where: The Castle Climbing Centre, Green Lanes, Stoke Newington, London N4 2HA

Website 

Need to know:  You must register before you climb – check the website for details. If you are visiting off peak (8am – 5pm Mon – Fri) then you do not need to book in advance. All climbers need to complete an Acknowledgement of Risk form. 

With three locations across London, Go Ape is a fun day out for active teens. The biggest of the three location is Alexandra Palace , which combines thrills and great views of London. Here you’ll find the Treetop Adventure, Treetop Adventure Plus and Treetop Challenge – the later includes the Plummet, a 12m free fall toward the forest floor. The other two locations are at Battersea Park and at Cockfosters . 

Where: There are three locations in London at Cockfosters, Battersea Park and Alexandra Palace

Need to know:  Pre-booking is essential. Treetop Adventure starts from £19, Treetop Adventure Plus starts from £23 and Treetop Challenge starts from £25. 

Thames Rockets

Witness some of London’s best sights while you zip along the Thames River in a speedboat. Thames Rockets offers a number of tours along the river in their bright red RIB boats , these include the Ultimate London Adventure , a 50 minute ride at 30 knots that takes in sights from Big Ben to Tower Bridge and the 80-minute Thames Barrier Explorers Voyage that runs from the London Eye to the Thames Barrier. 

Where: Meeting points depend on which experience you book, see the website for details.

Need to know:  The only Thames Rockets tour with age restrictions is the Thames Lates, which has a minimum age of 18 due to the serving of alcohol on-board.

There are several go karting operators in London but the one that we’ve used and recommend is Team Sport . Team Sport have five indoor karting tracks in London including London Docklands, North London, West London, Mitcham, South London and Watford. All have fun tracks for you to zoom along as you race against other competitors. Full briefings and equipment is provided – all you have to do is put the pedal down and go! 

Where: Five different locations across London.

Need to know:  Minimum age for an adult kart is 12 years old. Pre-booking is essential.

Best tours in London for Teens

From Harry Potter and James Bond to a silent disco walking tour or discovering the city on two wheels, there are lots of fun tours to enjoy in London with teens.

Harry Potter Tour

Potterheads will quickly fall under the spell of this Harry Potter Walking tour of London . Led by ToursByLocals, a company that connects visitors with experienced local guides, the tour covers the major Harry Potter filming locations in London. As well as discover spots used for filming (including Great Scotland Yard and St Paul’s Cathedral), the tour guide shares oodles of fun Harry Potter facts.

Where: Across London

Need to know: The tour last 3hrs 30 minutes and involves quite a lot of walking

James Bond Tour

For teens who prefer a touch of espionage with their tours then consider the James Bond Walking Tour of London . Also run by ToursByLocals, this tour takes in all the filming sites used for various James Bond films in London. It also includes some very fun Bond facts including who is the oldest Bond girl. Sites include Charing Cross Station, Horse Guards Parade and the oldest restaurant in London. 

For a Bond themed weekend, book the  Budding Bonds package at St Ermin’s Hotel  in addition to this James Bond Tour.

Where: Locations across Central London

Need to know: The tour lasts 3 hours and involves quite a lot of walking

Behind the Scenes Theatre Tours

For teens with an interest in theatre there are a number of excellent backstage theatre tours . One of the most exciting is a behind the scenes tour of the Theatre Royal Drury Lane , the oldest theatre in the West End. Located in the heart of Covent Garden , the theatre has survived bankruptcy, fire, and even murder. 

Where: Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Catherine St, London WC2B 5JF

Need to know: There are 20 spaces available per tour; each tour lasts approximately 1 hour. Check the website for timings. Tickets cost £18.50.

Mudlarking tour of the Thames

Twice a day the tidal waters in the River Thames rise and fall bringing with them centuries of treasure, little bits of history in the shape of pieces of roof tiles, bits of clay pipes and remnants of Delftware crockery. If you’re really lucky, you might even find a Victorian table fork.

‘Mudlarking’ the art of scavenging through river mud for lost items of historical significance or value, has become increasingly popular along the banks of the Thames. The best way to take part is with a guide, not least because the regularly changing tidal waters. A guide will also help identify what you and your teen find. 

Where: On the banks of the River Thames

Need to know: Check the website for dates and times.

Harry Potter Warner Brothers Studio Tour

Harry Potter-loving teens should wizard themselves to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour to experience the Making of Harry Potter. Step onto iconic sets such as the Great Hall , see props from the films, take a close-up look at costumes and discover how the special and visual effects teams made Harry and his wizarding pals fly. 

Where: The Water Bros. Studio Tour is located 20 miles north-west of London. There is a shuttle bus from Watford Junction (there are direct trains from London Euston to Watford Junction that takes 20 minutes). 

Need to know: Make sure to book well in advance, tickets do sell out.

London’s Street Art

London is home to some great street art and one of the best way to see it is on a Street Art Walking Tour . The tour takes place in the vibrant East End and showcases the city’s amazing street art scene – led by street artists and local experts. Discover local and world renowned artists and hear the stories and inspiration behind an array of artworks. The tour is also available with a Street Art Workshop afterwards. 

Where: London’s East End

Need to know: The tour lasts 1.5 – 2 hours and takes place seven days a week at 11am and 2pm. £18 / adult, £12 / children aged 6-15yrs.

Fat Tires Bike Tour of London

Discover London with teens on two wheels with a Fat Tire Bike Tour . The company runs cycling tours of a number of cities (we tried one of their Paris tours previously) all led by a qualified and knowledgeable guide. In London, Fat Tire Tours offer three different tours; the Royal London Bike Tour, the River Thames Bike Tour and the River Thames Evening Bike Tour with beer tasting. 

Where: Locations across London

Need to know: Tours start from £26 for teens, £28 for adults. The tours are also suitable for young children (although not the beer tasting one!).

Silent Disco Walking Tours

Get your dancing feet ready for a tour with a difference. Silent Disco Walking Tours run a handful of themed walking tours across London including the West End Musical Tour and the Drag Queen Disco Diva tour. During the West End Musical Tour , participants wear headphones and then sing and dance along to the greatest show tunes as you tour the streets of London and discover new musicals. The Drag Queen Disco Diva Tour takes in London’s iconic Soho and China Town districts as you listen to Disco Diva tunes. 

Where: The tours take place in different locations across

Need to know:  Tours start from £19 for kids and teens and £24 for adults. Check the website for details.

Buckingham Palace Tour

Peek inside where Her Maj lives when you’re in town on a self guided tour of Buckingham Palace , the official residence of the Queen. Although not all the palace is open to visitors you can explore the regal State Rooms for 10 weeks each summer between July 22 and October 22. Rooms open to the public during this time include the White Drawing Room, the Throne Room, the Ballroom and the Music Room. There’s also a great gift shop for taking a piece of royalty home. 

Where: London SW1A 1AA. Victoria is the closest rail station. Green Park and Hyde Park Corner are the nearest underground stations.

Need to know:  Pre-booking is essential. Teens and children £16.50, adults £30. 

Fun classes for teens in London

Learn to create the perfect Victoria Sponge, rolls a restaurant-worthy sushi roll or fly through the air at Circus school, on one of these great-for-teens classes.

Sushi-making class

Learn to make maki rolls with a sushi master at Inamo in Central London. The hour-long class is very hands-on and kids and teens (up to the age of 16) will come away with 10 pieces of freshly rolled sushi ready to eat. Classes are held at Inamo (a great family-friendly restaurant in London) .

Where: Inamo Restaurant,134 – 136 Wardour Street, W1F 8ZP. Near Oxford Circus.

Need to know:  Pre-booking is essential

Gorilla Circus Flying Trapeze School

Swing through the air with the greatest of ease after a lesson at Gorilla Circus Flying Trapeze School in Regent’s Park. The two-hour classes start with a warm up and then move on to practice a simple trick on the low bar. By the end of the class you’ll be attempting the trick on the Flying Trapeze and finally getting caught by an instructor on a separate swinging bar.

Gorilla Circus is a seasonal company and usually open in the Spring for lessons. Check the website for details. 

Where: The school is located north-west corner of Regent’s Park, north of Outer Circle road and west of Avenue road

Need to know:  The minimum age requirement is 8 years old.

The Big London Bake

Fans of the Great British Bake Off will love taking part in the Big London Bake . Each bake off includes ingredients, a top baker to give advice, a theme and one winner! You have 90 minutes to whisk, roll and bake your way to glory. Locations and dates change so do check the website but the baking competition remains the same. 

Where: The next Big London Bake is taking place in Under the Bridge, Lee Street, London, E84ED

Need to know:  Anyone under the age of 18 must bake alongside a responsible adult.

Best spooky things to do in London for Teens

If your teen likes things that go bump in the night then London’s a great place to explore. There are lots of spooky sights and plenty of gruesome stories!

London Dungeon

If you like your sights spooky then The London Dungeon is a good option. This walk-through experience recreates scenes from some London’s scary and sinister history. Learn about the Great Fire of 1666 , discover Henry VIII’s victims as you ride through Traitors’ Gate and the see (and smell!) what it was like to live in London during the plague. 

Where: The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 7PB. The London Dungeon is located near the London Eye. The closest underground station is Waterloo. 

Need to know:  The minimum age recommended for The London Dungeon is 12 years and older but be aware that the dungeon is very dark and can be spooky! Pre-booking is essential.

Jack the Ripper Tour

For those who like their tours super spooky book a place on the Jack the Ripper Tour that explores the mean streets of the Victorian East End and London’s most notorious murderer. Not for the faint of heart! 

Where: The tour meets at Aldgate East Underground Station but double check when booking.

Need to know:  The tour is not recommended for children under the age of 14 as the tour contains a lot of adult content. The tour takes two hours and involves a lot of walking. Do book as far in advance as possible as the tour is very popular and often sells out.

Ghost Bus Tour

For a spooktacular tour with a hint of comedy take a look at the Ghost Bus Tours . The tour takes place on board a 1960s Routemaster bus and takes in all the top attractions of London including London. Bridge, Downing Street, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London learning about London’s haunted history along the way. This comedy-horror tour on wheels last 1 hour and 15 minutes. 

Where: The tour departs from Northumberland Avenue daily, opposite the Sherlock Holmes Pub. The nearest underground station is Embankment and Charing Cross train station. 

Need to know: Tours take place daily, pre-booking is advised. Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Clink Prison Museum 

The Clink Prison was one of the most notorious medieval prisons in London . Located in Southwark on the south bank of the Thames, it operated from the 12th century up until 1780. This makes it the longest operational prison in history. It was a place of extreme punishments where prisoners were placed in fetters and irons or forced to stand in water until their feet were rotten.

Today the Clink Prison Museum explores the burial past of the prison through audio stories, themed rooms and replica artefacts including torture tools. The museum also runs guided tours.

Where: The Clink Prison Museum is located on London’s South Bank. The closets underground station is London Bridge, the closets train station is London Bridge Rail Station. 

Need to know: The museum is not wheelchair accessible. You are recommended 1hr 15 minutes for your visit. The recommended age is 7+ years.

The London Bridge Experience 

Travel back in time to London’s gruesome past when nefarious characters such as The Head Snatcher and Jack the Ripper roamed the city streets at the London Bridge Experience . Set within the historical vaults of London Bridge this immersive show explores 2000 years of London’s gruesome history .

You can combine your experience with a journey into the London Tombs , an award-winning immersive scare maze that’s home to characters including zombies, clowns and doctors who are hiding ready to make you scream and jump with fright. 

Where: The London Bridge Experience, 2-4 Tooley Street, London SE1 2SY

Need to know: There is no age restriction in the London Bridge Experience, however, children up to the age of 15 must be accompanied by a supervising adult. For visitors under 11 there is a less spooky London Tombs visit.

Highgate Cemetery

Highgate Cemetery is one of the most famous cemeteries in London , popular with both the dead and the living. During Victorian times people would pack a picnic and spend the day among the tombstones. The cemetery is the final resting place for over 170,000 people and many of them are famous names including Karl Marx and even Jeremy Beadle! Rumour has it that the sound of galloping hooves can be heard along the street outside the cemetery at night. 

Where: Swain’s Ln, London N6 6PJ

Need to know: The cemetery is open everyday between 10-4pm. Both self-guided visits and West Cemetery tours are available. Booking online in advance is advised. 

The best sporting activities in London for Teens

From watching cricket to playing indoor cricket plus crazy golf, ice skating, skateboarding and more (including stadium tours for footie fans), here’s our pick of the best sporting activities for teens in London.

Skating and bowling at QUEENS London

You can easily spend a whole day at QUEENS in Bayswater. This ice rink and bowling alley is located on Queensway in the heart of London.

There are 12 bowling lanes as well as 5 VIP bowling lanes. The ice rink is open year-round and lessons are available – you must pre-looking your skating session and each session lasts 1 hour. Food and drink are available. 

Where: 17 Queensway, London, W2 4QP. Queensway Tube is the closest underground station.

Need to know:  QUEENS is an over 18s zone after 7pm every evening. 

London’s Best Trampoline Parks

There are a number of trampoline parks in London perfect for energetic teens. Jump London , in east London, offers 12 different Jump Zones in their 100,000 square foot activity centre. They also happens o have a go karting track, Capital Karts, on site too. 

Oxygen has trampoline parks in Acton, at the O2 in Greenwich and in Croydon . They offer giant airbags, foam pits, dodgeball courts, slam-dunk basketball, performance trampolines and more. 

Flip Out has locations in Brent Cross (North London), Croydon (South London), Wandsworth and in East London (E6). 

For a round of nine hole mini golf with a difference head to Puttshack. There are two locations in London in Bank and White City where you can play tech-infused mini golf across themed courses. Each game lasts approximately 30 minutes. 

Where: There is a Puttshack in Bank, Central London, and in White City in West London. 

Need to know:  After 7pm Puttshack is an over 18s venue only.

Go Ice Skating

Christmas in London is a great time to hit the ice rinks but you can get your skates on throughout the year at a number of different venues.

In North London you’ll find the Alexandra Palace Ice Rink where the indoor skating arena is open year-round. In Queensway there’s QUEENS , home to an ice rink and bowling lanes. The Olympic-sized ice rink in Streatham is part of the Better leisure centre group so you’ll need to download their app and pre-book a skate session. 

Gravity Active Entertainment

For lots of different activities under one roof head to Gravity in Wandsworth, South London. This colossal space offers eight different immersive experiences to enjoy including GT E-Karting (all-electric go karts), a 14 lane augmented reality bowling alley, 10-hole urban street golf, AR digital darts, immersive Electric Gamebox (a 60-minute hyper-immersive digital adventure), an E-sports Gaming Area and a Unbox arcade. 

Where: Xscape, Castleford WF10 4TA . Wandsworth Town is the closest train station.

Need to know:  Children aged thirteen and over do not need to be accompanied in the venue by someone over 16. Still, they must have a valid safety agreement signed by a parent or guardian to participate in the activity.

Hampstead Heath Ponds

Hampstead Heath in North London is home to three swimming ponds ; the Mixed Bathing Pond, the Men’s Bathing Pond and the Kenwood Ladies’ Bathing Pond. Swimmers have been dipping and splashing in these ponds for decades and, on a hot day, there’s really no better place to be. 

Where: Hampstead Heath, North London

Need to know:  Pre-booking is advised. Under 15s must be accompanied by an adult.

All kids (and young teens) will be asked complete a Swim Test to show competency in the water when returning to the Bathing Ponds or swimming at the facility for the first time. The ponds are deep so you do need to be a competent swimmer. There is a nominal fee to access the ponds.

Junkyard golf

Take part in a round of crazy mini-golf on one of four courses created from, well, junk. Choose from Pablo, Bozo, Dirk or Gary (those are the names of the courses FYI) and get ready for some psychedelic golfing fun.  

Where: 88 Worship Street, Hackney, EC2A 2BE. Moorgate is the closest underground station.

Need to know:  Under 18s are permitted on Sunday to Wednesday before 6pm and must have an over 18 with them. 

TOCA Social at the 02

Football keen teens will enjoy time at TOCA Social, an interactive football experience . Book a private box for 60 or 90 minutes, choose to play on the level that works for you (beginner, intermediate or advanced) and get ready to play.

Each box accommodates 12 players. As well as the 17 immersive pitches , there are two selfie booths and a dessert room. There’s also lots of good food on offer.

Where: TOCA Social is located in The O2, near Hollywood Bowl. The closest underground station is North Greenwich. 

Need to know:  TOCA Social is open to under 18s up until 16:00 every day, after that it is a strictly 18+ venue

Tour Lord’s Cricket Ground

Cricketing fans should head to Lord’s Cricket Ground for a tour of the Grade II* listed Victorian Pavilion. Lord’s is home to a fascinating history as well as an unrivalled collection of cricket-related art and memorabilia. 

Where: St John’s Wood Rd, London NW8 8QN. St John’s Wood is the closest tube station.

Need to know:  Tour days and times vary check the website for details. 

Indoor Cricket at Sixes

Sixes is a UV indoor immersive cricket experience that allows wannabe Sachin Tendulkar’s the chance to enter the batting cage and swing for six. The specially designed nets sit under UV lights and include state of the art technology. Batting nets are hired by the hour and are suitable for all abilities 

Where: There are two Sixes locations in London, one in Fitzrovia (W1W) and one in Fulham (SW6).

Need to know:  Bookings including children under the age of 18 must be before 8pm at all Clubhouses.

Lee Valley Velo Park

For fun on two wheels head to the Lee Valley VeloPark where teens can tackle the track in the iconic velodrome , race on the road circuit, attempt the mountain bike trails or jump and bump on the BMX trac k. Coaching sessions are available and equipment is available to hire. Check the website for details. 

Where: Lee Valley VeloPark, Abercrombie Road, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London E20 3AB. Stratford station is the closest station.

Need to know:  Some sessions must be booked well in advance. For the Velodrome Experience, for example, sessions are released one month in advance. Check the website for details.

Laser Tag and Paintball at Bunker 51

If your teen is looking for something to do on a rainy day in London take a look at Bunker 51 , a Cold War themed nuclear bunker where you can play airsoft, laser tag and paintball . Located in North Greenwich, Bunker 51 has two immersive indoor game zones and is the only indoor paintball centre in London. 

Where: 3 Herringham Road, London, SE7 8NJ. Charlton train station is the closest station.

Need to know:  Pre-booking is essential.

Sports Stadium Tours

There are some fantastic sports stadium tours in London , perfect for sports-mad teens. In Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in East London you can take part in the London Stadium tour and learn about the Olympic experience as well as how the stadium has been transformed into a football stadium. 

Go behind the scenes of the UK’s most famous tennis competition – and venue – with a trip to the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum where you can enjoy a 90-minute tour of the grounds. 

Rugby fans should make a beeline for Twickenham where stadium tour gives you access to places including the Rugby Player’s tunnel and the England changing room. 

Football Stadium Tours

For football fans there are a number of stadium tour options. Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium offers tours seven days a week. There are a range of tours to choose from at the Arsenal Emirates Stadium , including some that allow you to meet one of Arsenal’s former players.

Chelsea FC fans can head to the Chelsea grounds for an award-winning tour of the grounds led by knowledgeable and passionate guides. Fulham FC also offers tours of its stadium. If you want to go big then head to Wembley Stadium the UK’s largest sports and music venue, for the 90-minute Wembley Stadium tour. 

Unusual London attractions for Teens

If you’re looking for something a little quirky to see and do in London then here’s our top pick from neon lights and a graffiti tunnel to a life sized edition of Monopoly.

God’s Own Junkyard

God’s Own Junkyard is a neon wonderland , a packed warehouse stuffed to the rafters with neon lights and vintage signs. Located in Walthamstow, the original owner used to create props for film directors including Stanley Kubrick and Christopher Nolan. Today God’s Own Junkyard is open to visitors who simply want to look around and the Technicolor signs or for those who want to buy one to take home.

Where: Unit 12, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall Street, Walthamstow, E17 9HQ

Need to know: The warehouse sometimes closes for private events so make sure to check the website for opening times before visiting. There is a cafe on site called the Rolling Scones Cafe.

Prince Charles Cinema

One of the best things to do in London with teens on a rainy day is to head to the cinema. The Prince Charles Cinema in between Chinatown and Leicester Square.

Unlike the other big name movie theatres in the neighbourhood, this independent cinema is the place to go for fun sing-along screenings (anything from Disney classics to the Rocky Horror Picture Show), cult horror movies, mystery movies and other fun events such as silent films with live scores.

Where: Leicester Place

GoBoat London

Enjoy a self-drive boating experience in London in an electric boat. GoBoat have three different locations around town and you can hire a boat for 1, 2 or 3 hours. The best way to enjoy it is with a picnic! 

Where: There are GoBoat locations in Paddington, Canary Wharf and Kingston.

Need to know: The boats fit up to 8 people including children (dogs are also welcome). No boating experience is necessary, as you’ll be taught everything you need to know. Route maps are provided too. Book online for the best rates.

London’s Graffiti Tunnel 

Hidden under the crowded platforms of London’s Waterloo Station is a kaleidoscopic world of brilliant street art . This permanent art space is hidden in the Leake Street arches and is filled with colour and design. Apparently the area was first used by the street artists Banksy way back in 2008 (he wanted to transform “a dark forgotten filth pit” into “an oasis of beautiful art”. The Leake Street arches are a great free activity to do in London too!

Where: Leake Street Arches incorporates Leake Street (the graffiti tunnel) and a new pedestrianised walkway connecting Leake Street to Westminster Bridge roundabout. The closest tube station is Waterloo or Lambeth North. 

Need to know: Make sure to check out the ‘tunnel rules’ on the website before visiting – especially if you plan to unleash your inner artist!

Monopoly Lifesized

Challenge your friends to a game of Monopoly on an immersive life-size board . In this game, however, you’ll have to do more than simply collect $200 when you pass Go – players will need to take part in physical and mental challenges are they move around the board. Be prepared to solve murder mysteries or build a London landmark as you try and win. 

Where: 213-215 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7PS. Closest tube is Goodge Street.

Need to know: There are four exciting editions of Monopoly Lifesized to choose from when booking: Luxury, City, Classic and Junior.

The Selfie Factory

If you’re teen is keen to get more snaps for the gram or some content for Tik Tok then head to the Selfie Factory , a pop-up located in the O2 Arena. The ‘factory’ is home to a number of brightly-coloured sets including a fake bedroom and a fake diner (with, you guessed it, fake ice cream sundaes). There’s also a ball pit with hundreds of neon pink balls. 

Also on site is Tikky Town , a “funhouse experience” where you can create videos. Interactive sets include a pink Lamborghini, a prison room and a balloon fan room. 

Where: The Selfie Factory is located inside the ICON Outlet on the ground floor of the O2 Arena. The closest tube station is North Greenwich.

Need to know:  A General Admission ticket gets you 60 minutes or you can get an all-day double pass, which gives you unlimited access to both the Selfie Factory and Tikky Town. 

Karaoke booths are available at the two All Star Lanes venues (Brick Lane and White City) in London where rooms host up to 14 people. 

Where: Brick Lane: 95 Brick Lane, E1 6QL

White City: Westfield Shopping Centre, Ariel Way, W12 7FU

Need to know:  Children under 18 years are permitted to enter the venue and bowl (or take part in karaoke) when accompanied by an adult up until 6pm.

London’s first virtual reality arcade , DNA VR, is an interactive game space where contestants put on high-tech headsets and explore the deepest oceans, become a powerful sorcerer or survive a Zombie Apocalypse. There are single-player and multiplayer VR experiences for up to 10 players in the same Virtual World. There are three main types of experiences available at all three venues: VR Arcade, VR Escape room and Premium Free-Roaming experience. 

Where: There are three venues at Camden, Hammersmith and Battersea Power Station.

Need to know:  See the website for details on experiences and pricing.

Electric Game Box

This immersive interactive gaming space is a lot of fun and ideal for teens who like digital adventures. Participants at Electric Game Box can choose from five games, which are then played in private interactive digital rooms with projecting mapping, touch screens, motion tracking and surround sound. Rooms can hold between 2 – 6 people.

Where: There are London locations in Southbank and Wandsworth. 

Need to know:  There must be at least one participating adult (18+) per Gamebox with children under 12.

Crystal Maze Live

Although your teen might not have any idea what The Crystal Maze is, they’re guaranteed to enjoy this challenge. Based on the TV game show from the 90s, this LIVE experience is an immersive attraction that follows the same premise of the popular show. There dozens of game rooms in four different age-themed zones and physical, mental, skill and mystery challenges that must be completed in order to win a crystal. And don’t forget, you are racing against the clock!

Where: 22 – 32 Shaftesbury Ave, West End,W1D 7EU

Need to know:  Bookings with guests aged under 18 must have 2 paying and playing adults (18+) per team.

Best shopping in London for Teens

Whether you like high street shopping or prefer rummaging for vintage bargains, London has some of the best shopping in the world.

Oxford Street

Running from Tottenham Court Road to Marble Arch via Oxford Circus is Oxford Street, one of London’s most famous streets and the city’s most famous shopping street. Oxford Street is home to high-end brands as well as some of the UK’s most iconic department stores including Selfridges and John Lewis. 

Where: You can access Oxford Street from any of the following underground stations: Marble Arch, Bond Street, Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road.

Camden Market

Camden is a great neighbourhood to discover with teens, full of colour and life. One of the best places to go is Camden Market , located next to Regent’s Canal. Home to over 1,000 places to shop, eat and drink you’ll find everything from vintage clothing and jewellery to vinyl records and photography. The food options are fantastic too with street eats from around the world. 

Where: Camden Lock Place, NW1 8AF. The closest underground station is Camden Town

Need to know:  The market is open daily from 10am.

Carnaby Street

Carnaby Street is not only one of London’s most famous streets but also one of its most iconic. Carnaby was the birthplace of Swinging London in the 1960s – famous faces like Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones and Brigitte Bardot would visit regularly. Today Carnaby Street is home to shops including We Built This City (fun for London souvenirs ), Superega and Skinny Dip, there is lots for teens to love here. 

Where: The closest underground stations are Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus.

Need to know:  Don’t miss Kingly Court while you’re here, a three-story alfresco food destination with 25 restaurants to choose from. 

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is always lively and a really fun place for teens to discover. An official market was established here in 1670 and a fresh fruit and vegetable market stood here until the 1960s. Today the original marketing building is filled with cafes, pubs, shops and a crafts market. Some of the best shops for teens to explore include Tatty Devine , a quirky British jewellery brand, the Tintin Shop and the Dr. Marten’s store. 

Where: The closest underground stations are Covent Garden and Leicester Square

Need to know:  From Tuesday to Sunday, the Apple Market is filled with handmade jewellery, prints, watercolours and crafts. Mondays are when you’ll find antiques and collectables for sale.

Forbidden Planet

In London’s West End is Forbidden Planet , a ‘cult entertainment megastore’ that stocks a huge range of books covering science fiction, animation, graphic design, superheroes, computer games and much more. You’ll also find lots of DVDs, collectible figures, clothing and posters. 

Where: 179 Shaftesbury Ave, WC2H 8JR. Tottenham Court Road is the nearest underground station.

Foyles Bookstores

There are lots of brilliant bookstores in London for kids and lots that are great for teens too. One of the best is Foyles Bookstore , which enjoys 37,000 square feet of floorspace and eight levels packed full of books. You’ll find everything here from LGBT & Gender Studies to Medical & Veterinary as well as plenty of YA fiction. 

Where: 107 Charing Cross Road, WC2H 0DT. Tottenham Court Road is the closest tube station.

Need to know:  You’ll also find branches of Foyles at the Royal Festival Hall, in Westfield Stratford City and at London Waterloo Station. 

London’s most famous department store is wildly over-the-top and it’s for that reason alone that Harrods is worth a visit. The beautiful and elegantly tiled food halls on the ground floor are a highlight but it’s worth taking time to explore the rest of the store too. There’s an art gallery, an enormous shoe department and a floor dedicated to young designer fashion labels. 

Where: 87–135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, SW1X 7XL. Knightsbridge is the closest tube station.

Need to know:  Harrods doesn’t open until 11am (11.30am on Sundays)

House of MinaLim a

Harry Potter fans should pay a visit to Mina Lima in London’s Soho. Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima are two artists who met on the set of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and together created the print studio MinaLima. Their store – draped in red velvet – is filled with graphic art of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films as well as limited edition art prints designed by MinaLima. You’ll also see props from the films on display. 

Where: 157 Wardour St, W1F 8WQ. Tottenham Court Road and Oxford Circus are the nearest tube stations.

Need to know:  You can also shop for MinaLima artwork online.

Harvey Nichols

The other big department store in Knightsbridge is Harvey Nichols , which is more commonly referred to as Harvey Nicks. The downstairs beauty space is impressive, there’s a great trainer collection and a lively food department on the fifth floor. 

Where: 109 – 125 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RJ. Knightsbridge is the closest tube station.

Need to know:  The store is open from 10am – 8pm Monday to Saturday and from 11.30am – 6pm on Sunday.

Portobello Road Market

The pretty coloured houses of Portobello Road have been seen on many an Instagram photo (not to mention many a movie filmed in London ). But this is an area with a long and colourful history and a neighbourhood that is wonderfully diverse. The market is one of the most famous streets markets in the world (some families have been selling on Portobello Road for generations), filled with antique, bric-a-brac and vintage clothes. It’s a really fun place to wander, browse and buy. 

Where: Portobello Road is in Notting Hill in West London. Notting Hill Gate and Ladbrooke Grove are the closest tube stations.

Need to know:  Portobello is several markets in one. Saturday is the busiest day, when street performers also make an appearance. Check the website to find out what market stalls are open on what days. 

Brick Lane Vintage Stores

Teens who love vintage clothes should make a beeline for Brick Lane. As well as the market, where you can find stalls selling vintage ware, there are some fantastic vintage shops in the neighbourhood. Shops to add to your list include House of Vintage , Levisons , Search and Destroy , Atika London and Vintage Basement . 

Where: Aldgate East is the closest tube station for Brick Lane.

You have to visit Liberty when you’re in London simply because it’s such a beautiful store. The first Liberty store opened in 1875 , started by Arthur Liberty who had plans for a London store packed full of “luxuries and fabrics from distant lands”.

He opened the Great Marlborough Street shop in 1924 and today the building, which was constructed using timber from two ancient battle ships, is a Grade II listed building. It was designed to feel like a home , which explains why you’ll come across the odd fireplace or window seat as you wander around. You can pick up all manner of souvenirs including wash bags and notebooks, all with the signature Liberty print.

Where: Regent St., Carnaby, W1B 5AH. Oxford Circus is the closest tube station.

Need to know: The store is open from 10am – 8pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm – 6pm on Sunday. 

Box Park Shoreditch

In 2011 BOXPARK Shoreditch opened as the world’s first pop-up mall created from shipping containers. The concept was so successful the there are now a further two BOXPARKS in Wembley and Croydon.

The philosophy here is Eat. Drink. Shop. Play and there are plenty of options to do all four. Come here for independent and small designers , selling everything from homewares and gifts to electric skateboards and Japanese inspired stationery. 

Where: Boxpark Shoreditch, 2—10 Bethnal Green Road, E1 6GY. Old Street is the closest underground station.

Need to know: BOXPARK is open from 11am – 11pm Monday to Wednesday, until 11.45pm on Saturday and until 10.30pm on Sunday.  After 8pm anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 25. You will require physical photo I.D to enter BOXPARK.

Best places to eat in London with teenagers

There are loads of great places to eat in London and dozens of family-friendly restaurants . For teens looking for something a little bit more interesting however (read looks good on Instagram and Tik Tok) then these are the places you need to go.

B Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

For a fun sightseeing tour of London with your teen jump on board one of B Bakery’s original double-decker Routemaster buses. These iconic cherry red buses have been renovated to create a unique dining space perfect for afternoon tea.

Book the classic afternoon tea tour and enjoy finger sandwiches, sweet treats and scones as you tour London’s most famous sights – it’s the best way to enjoy London!

Where: Tours depart from either Victoira Coach Station or near Trafalgar Square. Check the website for details.

Need to know: Make sure to book a table on the top deck for the best views!

Bubblewrap in Covent Garden

Inspired by a traditional Hong Kong street snack of egg waffles from the 1950s, these Bubblewrap waffles not only look good but they taste good too. Each wrap consists of a layer of bubble waffle, filled with ice cream, biscuits, fruit and hot toppings. They are hugely decadent and absolutely delicious.

You’ll find Bubblewrap London in Chinatown.

Where: 24 Wardour Street, W1D 6QJ. Leicester Square is the nearest tube stop.

Need to know:  The waffles are very filling and one is often enough to share!

EL&N claim to be the “most instagrammable cafe in the world” and once you’ve stepped foot inside their neon pink cafes, it’s hard to disagree. There are a number EL&N locations around London (EL&N stands for ‘Eat, Live & Nourish’) all equally pink, covered with neon signs. Even the menu is social media-friendly with a list of “Instagrammable Drinks” . 

Where: There are 10 EL&N branches in London including one in Selfridges and one at Heathrow Terminal 3! Check the website for details.

Need to know:  The EL&N cafe on Park Lane is particularly good for photo ops!

Peggy Porschen

The pretty-in-pink Peggy Porschen cafes are owned by cake designer Peggy Porschen who has been creating cakes that “wow” since 2003. Today her two cafes – one in Chelsea and the other in Belgravia – are the place to come for stunning sweet treats (Vanity Fair dubbed her cupcakes “the best in the world”). 

Where: Belgravia: 16 Ebury Street, Belgravia, SW1W 9QQ

Chelsea: 219 King’s Road, Chelsea, SW3 5EJ 

Need to know:  The cafes are very popular so be prepared to wait for a table. Peggy Porschen also offers afternoon tea, take a look at the website for details.

There are lots of places in London that serve fantastic themed afternoon teas for kids but for something a little more grown-up (i.e. that your teen will like) head to Sketch London .

Although the much loved and TikTok-friendly pink tea room is no more the afternoon tea is still very good. Plus, we’re big fans of the new solar yellow colour scheme , designed by British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare CBE and project architect India Mahdavi. Sketch is also now home to 13 new site-specific works designed in Yinka Shonibare’s signature aesthetic that celebrates African culture. Expect the tea room to stay on the list of most Instagrammable restaurants in London .

Tea comes with an assortment of sandwiches (flavours include cucumber and asparagus, and salmon and ricotta), a delicious range of cakes (chocolate choux and blackberry marshmallow are just two options) and then scones served with cream and jam. Note that the menu does change regularly.

Where: 9 Conduit St, W1S 2XG. Oxford Circus is the closest underground station.

Need to know:  Afternoon tea at Sketch does not come cheap but it is unlimited meaning you can ask for as many sandwiches and pastries as you like – make sure to arrive hungry! 

Borough Market

Located in Southwark, near London Bridge, Borough Market is the oldest food market in the capital with a history dating back some 1,000 years. Today the market is filled with fantastic street food vendors and it’s a great place to wander around and try different foods (there are a handful of restaurants as well if you want a sit down meal). We love Khanom Krok for its authentic Thai street food and Portena , for its amazing Argentinian empanadas. 

Where: 8 Southwark Street, SE1 1TL. London Bridge is the closest underground station.

Need to know:  The market is open Monday to Friday from 10am – 5pm, from 8am – 5pm on Saturday and from 10am – 3pm on Sunday. 

Ice cream stores 

For ice cream that looks as good as it tastes, take a look at this list of the best places for ice cream in London . Some of our favourite ice cream parlours include Chin Chin labs where quick freezing liquid is used to create gourmet ice cream, the Milk Train for its candy floss ice cream cones and Hans & Gretel , which is possibly the kitschiest ice cream shop in town. 

The best escape games in London for teens

If your teen likes solving puzzles and is good at deciphering clues then try one of these London escape rooms for teens.

Sherlock: The Game is Now

Fans of the twists and turns of the TV show Sherlock will love this escape room. ‘Sherlock” The Game is Now’ is an immersive experience that will see you travel through the iconic sets from the show as you try to solve puzzles and crack clues . 

Where: Ground Floor, West 12 Shopping Centre, Shepherd’s Bush, W12 8PP. Shepherd’s Bush is the closest tube station.

Need to know:  Children over the age of 10 can play with adult supervision. Teens aged 15+ can play without an adult accompanying them. Players between the age of 15 and 17 will need an adult to sign a waiver on their behalf before playing the game.

Enigma Quests

Escape games at Enigma Quests include a Harry Potter-inspired room where players have to prove that they are a true witch or wizard, a million pound heist and a submarine quest where players have to diffuse a bomb located at the bottom of the ocean in order to save the world. 

Where: 2-12 Wilson Street, EC2M 7LS. Liverpool Street is the closest tube.

Need to know:  The minimum recommended age is 9 and above. Players under 16 must be accompanied by at least one adult per team.

Breakin’ Escape Rooms

Tech-savvy teens will enjoy the six different rooms at Breakin’ Escape Rooms . The different themed rooms – scenarios include a wizarding quest to find a precious artefact that has been lost for decades and escaping a pirate ship overrun with ghosts – come with lots of fun gadgetry such as puzzles on gigantic touch screens or laser-mounted weapons.  

Where: 89 Holloway Rd., N78LT. The closest tube is Highbury & Islington.

Need to know:  The minimum age to participate unaccompanied by an adult is 16. Under 16’s need to have at least one adult participant in the room with them during the game.

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Katja Gaskell

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England Tours and Trips for Young Adults

The best England trips and tours for young adults. We sell 267 tours and trips in England that are suitable for young adults, backed by 399 customer reviews. Whether you are a young solo traveller, a young single traveller or a young group of friends, we hope you can find what you are looking for. If not, please also see our group tours to England or request a customized private tour for young travellers to England .

267 trips for young adults in England

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England and Scotland Heritage

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Coast to Coast Rambler - 18 Days

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17 Best Things to do in Manchester for Young Adults

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Are you looking for some cool things to do in Manchester for young adults? We are here to help!

Manchester is a very lively city and if there is one thing that is sure about Mancunians, it’s that we like to have fun!

With so many activity bars and games around the city, there are a lot of things to do for young adults in Manchester.

In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about these activities. We included a bit of everything including some fun ones and others about culture.

So, are you ready to discover all the activities in Manchester for young adults? Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Whistle Punks Urban Axe Throwing

Let’s start with one of the coolest activities in Manchester for young adults.

Whistle Punks is located in Deansgate, in the Great Northern Warehouse, and offers axe throwing experiences .

While this may sound like a new activity, it’s actually not since it was a popular game for Vikings.

If that’s something you’d like to try, you can book your tickets in advance here.

Once you get to the venue, you can check in with the staff and will be assigned to a lane.

Each lane is for up to 10 people which means that you will be grouped with other people (but don’t worry, that only makes it more fun).

The instructor will show you two techniques to throw the axe and then you’ll start a little tournament with 3 rounds.

This will give you the opportunity to throw the axe around a dozen times altogether.

It’s a lot of fun!

Click here to see the prices

Breakout Manchester

If you’re looking for an indoor activity in Manchester for young adults, Breakout Manchester offers the perfect themed escape rooms for you.

You’d be right in the middle of the adventure as soon as you arrive since there are two locations: Church Street and Newton Street.

With 17 themed escape rooms to choose from, there are plenty of options. That also means it’s an activity you can do several times since you will have a different experience each time.

You can play as a team of 2 to 5 players, making it perfect for friends and family , team building events or even date nights !

You will use your creativity, common sense and teamwork to explore the room and solve puzzles to get out within an hour.

Each escape room is designed with different levels of difficulty so if you like challenges you’ll be able to test your skills.

So, if you’re looking for an exciting and fun activity in Manchester for young adults, Breakout Manchester is the perfect option.

The National Football Museum

If you’re a football fan, then The National Football Museum should definitely be on top of your list of things to do in Manchester for young adults.

You may not know that but the Federation of Football was actually founded in Manchester and with our two fantastic football teams, needless to say that Manchester is a city of football.

And you can learn more about it by going to the National Football Museum.

You will discover a lot of facts about English football but also many objects and memorabilia.

It’s also important to note that the National Football Museum is free for Manchester residents.

If you do not have a Manchester postcode, you will need to book your ticket online here.

Beer Pong at Pong & Puck

Pong & Puck is an activity bar located in Deansgate and is a great place to go to if you are looking for a drinking activities.

They have different types of games available including beer pong , shuffleboard , darts, cornhole and normal ping pong.

You don’t necessarily need to book your tickets in advance, you can just show up but if you are planning to go on a busy night, you should book to ensure you get the game.

It is a lot of fun and the place is also very Instagrammable.

And if you’d like to have some drinks while playing, that’s entirely possible. It is a bar after all!

They have great cocktails and a wide selection of beer.

Treetop Adventure Golf

Treetop Adventure Golf is an indoor mini-golf located in the Printworks. It’s the perfect activity for young adults, especially on a rainy day.

It’s an adventure golf course with two 18-hole courses: Tropical Trail and Ancient Explorer.

The great thing about it is that it’s jungle-themed, making it such a great universe (as well as a cool place to take photos).

They designed the place so well that even the toilets are jungle themed!

You can choose to do one course or two. If you are a big group, one should be enough since it will take a while for everyone to have their turn.

If you are less than 4 though, taking a ticket for both courses is a good idea.

There is also a bonus 19th-hole for which you only get one shot but if you get it in, you will win a free game.

Sports and Shuffleboard at BOX Deansgate

BOX Deansgate is a fun sports bar located in Deansgate. It’s the perfect place for a night out with friends since they have lots of activities and food options.

They show Premier League matches but also other big sports events such as Rugby World Cup or Wimbledon so it’s ideal if you are into sports.

In terms of activities, they offer shuffleboard and a variety of other games, making it the ideal place to hang out with friends and have some drinks.

For food, they have pizza , burgers, hot dogs and kebabs so there is something for everyone.

They also have an awesome bottomless brunch with steak frites, burgers and unlimited drinks so if you fancy a cool afternoon with sports, drinks and food, that’s the place for you!

Graystone Action Sports

If you are looking for something different to do in Manchester for young adults, the Graystone Action Sports Centre is the perfect option.

Located in Salford, it’s easily accessible from Manchester city centre by bus 34, 36 or 37.

They offer a wide range of activities such as skateboarding, biking, scooting, climbing, snowboarding, freeskiing and WCMX.

You can book an activity session or take some coaching – either for individuals or groups.

The centre also offers camps for kids and team building activities which is great if you are looking for something to do with friends or colleagues.

It’s a lot of fun and there are so many activities you can do. So, if you’re looking for an exciting activity in Manchester for young adults, the Graystone Action Sports Centre is a great option!

Zip World Manchester

You may already know the company Zip World. They have incredible zip lines in Wales but also offer outdoor activities in Manchester !

You can find Zip World Manchester in Heaton Park.

It’s very easy to get there by car or with the MetroLink. Heaton Park tram stop is right in front of the entrance of the park.

Treetop Trek Manchester offers 3 types of adventures: the full trek, mini trek and treetop nets.

For young adults, we particularly recommend the full trek. You will be going through a circuit on high ropes and face obstacles.

There are 20 obstacles and 14 ziplines, making it a super fun activity.

It takes about 2 hours to complete the activity.

After that, you can always go for a walk in Heaton Park and enjoy the nature.

Flight Club

Now if you’re looking for a cool activity bar, Flight Club is the place for you!

This is the ultimate dart bar in Manchester and you can be sure to have a good time with your friends here.

While playing darts may not sound that fun, we can promise you something, it will be at Flight Club.

They reinvented dart games to make it super interactive using technology.

Basically, your group can book a dart lane and you will find a tablet where you can add the players.

You will then be given the choice between various games and can start throwing your darts.

It’s a lot of fun and the place is so Instagrammable !

Museum of Science and Industry

Located near Deansgate and Spinningfields, the Museum of Science and Industry is a great place to go if you are looking for an educational activity.

Also, it is free to visi t so that’s always a plus, especially for people on a budget.

The museum is set where the old Manchester Liverpool Road station used to be. This was the world’s first passenger railway line and its construction truly marked the beginning of the Industrial Revolution and the development of Manchester.

The museum is full of interactive activities and exhibitions all related to the history of science, engineering and industry in Manchester.

You will for example find Baby, the first computer, as well as loads of exhibitions about textile and science.

It’s educational but at the same time entertaining making it quite a fun thing to do.

Chill Factore

Chill Factore is an indoor skiing and snowboarding venue located near the Trafford Centre.

You can easily go there by car. It takes 20 minutes from the city centre. Alternatively, you can take the tram to the Trafford Centre and walk from there.

It’s home to the UK’s longest indoor snow slope and offers various activities that will make your day special.

If you already know how to ski or snowboard, you can book a ski lift pass and slide down all day!

But if you’d like to learn before maybe going abroad for a ski holiday, they offer lessons in group or private.

They also have a snow fun area where you can go down with inflatables and loads of activities.

If you really are into skiing and would like to go often, they also offer a monthly pass.

Shopping at the Trafford Centre

The Trafford Centre is Manchester’s favourite shopping centre.

It’s absolutely huge and such a unique place. It almost feels like it’s a theme park! You can find all the major brands here such as Topshop, Zara, Primark, M&S and so on, making it the perfect place to go shopping or buy your christmas presents.

But the great thing about it is that you can also find activities such as the mini golf or the Odeon cinema, as well as a food court.

The food court is set on two floors. On the ground floor you will find all the fast foods. On the first floor, you will find a wide selection of chain restaurants such as Wagamama, Tampopo, Burger Kitchen and more.

This means you can easily spend the day there if you want to.

Go for drinks

Manchester is known for its nightlife and that’s because we have amazing bars, activities and live music.

If you’re looking for something to do at night, why not go for drinks in town?

The Northern Quarter and Deansgate are the best places to go out in Manchester. You can find a lot of cocktail bars (including some offering 2-for-1 cocktails for their happy hour).

If you’d like to do something a bit unique, you can also go to one of the speakeasies such as Behind Closed Doors in the NQ.

For live music, Matt and Phred’s is always a good idea. You can also go to Albert Schloss in Deansgate.

Junkyard Golf Club

For something fun, you can head to Junkyard Golf Club which is the ultimate crazy golf in Manchester.

It’s located in Deansgate, near the station and the docks.

They have three courses: Bozo (with creepy clowns), Gary (scrapyard garage) and Pablo (with grizzly bears).

All the courses are set in the dark with a lot of neon and lights, giving them a very unique vibe.

But the best thing about Junkyard Golf Club is that you will also find a cocktail bar and can play while sipping on your cocktails!

This includes classics such as Espresso martinis and mojitos but also more unique ones.

Go for dinner on the Curry Mile

The Curry Mile is a stretch of road in Rusholme with a lot of restaurants offering you the best of Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Middle-Eastern cuisines.

It’s one of the most famous places in Manchester and for good reasons since it’s the largest concentration of Asian restaurants outside of Asia.

It’s a great place to go for dinner if you want to get an amazing meal without spending too much money.

Ziya Restaurant, MyLahore and Al Jazeera are great options.

You can also find a lot of shisha bars around if you want to keep the night going.

Freight Island

Freight Island is one of the best places in Manchester for entertainment. It’s located in Depot Mayfield which is behind Piccadilly Station.

Basically, it’s a bit of a food hall market coupled with a sports bars, cinema and loads of other activities.

It’s a great place to go to during the day as well as in the evening since there is always something going on.

Here you can get some food. They have pizzas, bao buns, cuban sandwiches and more.

You will also find a few bars to get a drink. The outdoor area is absolutely amazing and there are a lot of tables as well as steps covered with artificial grass.

If you are going on a sunny day, this is just paradise!

They also organise a lot of events in the evening. This includes DJ and games.

Finally, there is the sports bar that shows all the big games.

Dancing at the Revolucion de Cuba

If you are looking for a place for a night out with friends, the Revolucion de Cuba is one of the best options in Manchester

It’s located in Deansgate and offers great cocktails and live music. This place is always packed!

The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic as people enjoy their time in this unique venue.

They have a great happy hour so if you get there early, you can get cocktails for a really good price.

Later on in the night , they put music on so you can dance. If you like latino vibes, this is for you!

Now that you know everything about the best things to do in Manchester for young adults, it’s time to go out and have fun!

You may also be interested in :

• 41+ Best Free Things to do in Manchester 
• 28+ Fun Things to do in Manchester (for adults, couples & more!)
• 19+ Best Things to Do in Manchester for Couples
• 22 Cheap Things to do in Manchester

Founder of Manchester Pocket Guide. Pauline has been living in Manchester for 6 years and loves exploring the city. As a travel writer, she always had passion for discovering cities but Manchester is the place she truly fell in love with. From cute food spots to famous landmarks, she knows Manchester like the back of her hand.

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London with Teens: The Complete Guide to the Top Teen Activities & Attractions

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 25, 2023

If you’re looking for things to do in London as a teenager, don’t despair! We know only too well that those aged between 13 and 19 can be notoriously hard to please, which is exactly why this guide is packed with teenager activities in London they’ll love.

From thrilling adrenaline rides to soccer stadium tours , foodie experiences , cultural attractions and even ghosts and ghouls, this guide lists 15 fun things to do in London – with a teenager or by letting them fly solo for a while.

When you’re stuck regarding what to do when taking a trip to London with tweens or older teens, this list should help to smooth your way. As well as the top things to do, we have you covered by sharing our top tips and answers to frequently asked questions regarding things to do for teenagers in London. 

If you’re heading to London with younger siblings, don’t miss our post on the top things to do in London with kids . If theme parks are a favourite then check out our guide to the top 10 UK theme parks too!

IFS Cloud cable car

Climb the o2 roof, the view from the shard, shop till they drop at the markets, take a football stadium tour, organise a photoshoot , have afternoon tea at a top hotel, tour the cartoon museum, jump on the thames rocket, go to the globe, take in a west end show, see a movie at a leicester square cinema, eat curry on brick lane, discover the street art of the east end, take a spooky tour of london, staying safe, be weather wise, using public transport, is london good for teens, what can you do at 15 in the uk, what is the most important thing for a teenager, what will your teens do in london , london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks), 15 best things to do in london with teens.

While the London Eye is one of the best things to do for people of all ages, the average teenager in London might well appreciate being whisked across the city skyline by cable car more than other members of the family.

It’s one of the most fun things to do in London for a teenager, and gives them a birds-eye view over the historic city while experiencing the thrill of a ride over the Thames. Sights to look out for include the O2 Arena and the Olympic park built for the 2012 games. The cable was also created as an additional Olympic attraction. 

Oyster card holders can get a discount, or you can buy a combined ticket with a Thames Clippers River Roamer day pass here .

If seeing the O2 as their cable car whizzes by isn’t enough, book your adventurous teen a space on one of the top things to do in London for teens. They can climb the roof of the O2 arena, and might even learn a little about its history as the Millenium Dome along the way. 

Drinking in those views over the River Thames is also a highlight. The climb takes 90 minutes in total, and gives those who participate a unique perspective on the UK capital. As well as something to boast about to their friends back home.

Britain has very high standards of safety and your teen will be tooled up with all the right kit before they begin the ascent. On a clear day, they may be able to see as far as 15 miles away.

Buying a ticket through Get Your Guide means you can cancel up to 24 hours before the climb without a penalty. You can do that here.  

Even a teen surely cannot fail to be impressed by travelling up to the top of one of Britain’s most iconic buildings – and the reward at the top is breathtaking views over this world-famous city.

The viewing platform is on the 72nd floor and offers spectacular 360 degree views over the London skyline. This is another of the best things to do in London as a teenager when they want to claim bragging rights among their friends. 

It’s possible to see up to 40 miles away on the clearest of days, and they can buy a souvenir photo in the gift shop after spending as long as they like up there. 

You can also buy refundable tickets for entry to The Shard via Get Your Guide here .

All teens love shopping, right? So it naturally follows that exploring some of the city’s eclectic range of markets is one of the top things to do in London when you’re a teen.

According to Time Out London, a teenager should be happy picking from a list comprising an antique market (that also sells jewellery and homeware for their room), general goods, artisan foods or gifts. 

If we had to pick one for teens, make it Camden Market. Based by Regent’s Canal, it’s the most legendary of all London markets, and is apparently the fourth most popular attraction in the whole city. It’s also open seven days a week from 10 am until late. Find out more here . 

✅ Combine Camden market and street art on this walking tour of Camden.

Read more – Complete guide to 9 of London’s best markets

If they’re into soccer – or football as it’s known in the UK – then trust us, your teen would dearly love to take a tour of one of the top stadiums to be found on earth. You can do this at the home of Tottenham Hotspur or Arsenal, or even at Wembley itself. 

The latter is also used as a concert venue, and if you did manage to grab Premier League tickets to see their favourite team playing Wembley then they’re surely guaranteed to love you forever. Check out what’s on when you visit here . 

Failing that, a tour of the Emirates stadium or the Tottenham Hotspur stadium – both in North London – are major London attractions for teenage tourists who love football or soccer. 

Book your tickets for Arsenal stadium here , the Spurs stadium here or for a guided tour of Wembley here .

If they’re more into striking a pose than watching what’s going on at the football pitch, why not organise a photoshoot for your teen?

It will make a great souvenir of their time in the British capital, and is one of the more unusual activities for teenagers in London. You can book a time slot to suit you, and can also arrange a location of your choice for the photoshoot.

Whether the backdrop is the river Thames lined by all those iconic buildings, a cute terrace of smart townhouses, an urban street scene or a famous London landmark , it makes for an everlasting memento of your stay in the UK.

You can book your personal travel photographer with our professional London photographer Domi from Scalens Studio . Quote code UKTP10 at checkout for 10 extra images for free!

Afternoon tea is a British institution and to miss out on this delectable treat while in London is just not on! For anyone not in the know, it involves dainty finger sandwiches, delicate little cakes and freshly, baked, fluffy scones slathered in fresh clotted cream and fruity jam (jelly). 

Really, the thought alone is enough to make any teen (or adult or child) salivate. This foodie experience is definitely up there with the top activities for teenagers in London, and will give them plenty of opportunities to create content for sharing via Insta and TikTok.  

Any top hotel will do the job incredibly well, or go for a Harry Potter-themed afternoon tea at the Georgian House Hotel in Pimlico. You can find out more about that in this post . 

Another popular option for those who want something different is to take a Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tour – this is certainly the perfect way to combine afternoon tea and sightseeing. Book here.

Yes, we know – teenagers tend to roll their eyes at the mere thought of spending time at a museum. But have they heard of the Cartoon Museum? Located in Fitzrovia, it’s a great one to do before or after that afternoon tea.

The museum has a collection spanning cartoon artwork dating back as far as the 1800s, and there are 8,000 comics on display. That should keep them busy for a while. 

The best thing about it is that kids and teens under 18 get in for free, though adults do need to buy an admission ticket. Find out more here . 

The Thames Rockets are the UK’s best speedboat experience bar none. Whether you have a teenage son who wants to be like James Bond when he’s older or a daughter who simply hankers after a glamorous lifestyle, these trips offer excitement and adrenaline in spades.

Wearing life jackets, they’ll take to a RIB speedboat alongside a number of others for the ride of their life along the Thames. If you want to join them, why not book the ‘Mum goes free’ option? 

Rides last between 40 and 80 minutes, taking in lots of iconic London sights along the way. When it comes to cool places for teens in London, surely a speedboat is high on the list. 

Options offered include:

• High-Speed Thames River RIB Cruise
• Thames High-Speed Zone RIB Cruise
• Thames Rockets Sunset London Speedboat Experience
• Thames Rockets Private London Speedboat Experience

As they’re likely to be studying his plays at school, Shakespeare’s Globe theatre is one of the best teenage attractions in London to visit. It might even help to bring the eccentric cast of characters to life next time they take a class on Hamlet , A Midsummer Night’s Dream or Julius Caesar . 

There are various family-friendly events throughout the year, or you can find out which plays are on and book some tickets. Find out more at the official website here . 

Alternatively try the Unicorn Theatre near Tower Bridge, a leading light within the industry targeting young people in particular.  

There are always lots of shows for teens going on in London’s theatreland, and to miss seeing all the lights, special effects and accomplished actors is to miss out. 

Options will vary depending on when you visit, but popular favourites for all ages have included The Lion King , Wicked and Mary Poppins , as well as more grown-up options like the Tina Turner musical , Pretty Woman , Back to the Future, Moulin Rouge and Mamma Mia . 

It might even be a bonding experience for the whole family, as well as being one of the best things to do in London with a teenage daughter or son. 

Check out what’s on at the London Theatre Direct website. 

All the hot movie premieres in London take place in buzzing Leicester Square in the heart of the West End, so following in the footsteps of their favourite stars is a must for many starstruck teens. 

There are several vast cinemas on Leicester Square, including the iconic Odeon Luxe, a Cineworld with IMAX technology and a Vue. You can check out what’s on at each by referring to the Cineworld , Vue or Odeon sites.  

There may not be a red carpet, but if that’s the case then your teen is just going to have to use their imagination. This is for sure one of the most fun things to do in London for a teenager – even more so if there does happen to be a premiere going on. 

Take your teen to Brick Lane or the surrounding areas of Shoreditch, Spitalfields or Whitechapel to sample one of the many curry restaurants lining the streets of the East End.

Indian-style curries are incredibly popular in Britain and to sample one for themselves will give them something of an insight into the local way of life. While ensuring tingling tastebuds for the whole family at the same time.  

Whether it’s an ultra-mild, creamy vegetable Korma, a sweet, bright orange Chicken Tikka Masala or something more fiery like a lamb Madras, sharing a range of curries accompanied by rice and naan bread is a very British thing to do during a weekend or holiday. It’s one of the unique sides of London for teenage tourists to experience. 

Everyone has their own favourite: try asking at your hotel for a staff recommendation. 

Before you head to a Brick Lane curry house for the evening’s feast, why not take your teen on a street art tour of the East End? 

The districts of Shoreditch and Spitalfields are abundant in street art, as is the area around Brick Lane itself. This is a great way to discover an alternative side to London, and as the scene is constantly evolving, a unique experience is guaranteed.

A guided walking tour doesn’t cost too much and is one of the coolest things for teenagers to do in London. En route they’ll learn all about how graffiti and urban art has transformed the cityscape as well as how the whole scene developed.

We recommend the guided street art walking tour you can book via Get Your Guide here .

Alternatives with Viator include

• London Street Art Walking Tour – A small-group walking tour of the hip Shoreditch district and thriving Brick Lane, home to some of the heaviest concentrations of the city’s street art.
• Shoreditch Street Art Tour London – Join a guide on a speciality street art-themed tour that starts at Old Spitalfields Market and visits Brick Lane and Shoreditch. Along the way, hear stories about local artists and learn how to interpret different pieces.

This isn’t perhaps one for those who’ve just turned 13, but for older teenagers with an interest in the strange, spooky or downright macabre, a ghoulish tour of London is ideal.

It’s one of the best things for teens to do in London when they hail from countries like Australia or the US, which simply don’t have the high concentration of ancient buildings that are found in European cities. Including, of course, London. 

Options include a spooky boat ride on the Thames, Jack the Ripper tours, Ghastly Ghost experiences and historic – and haunted – Hampton Court Palace.

Find out more about the various options here . 

Top Tips for doing London with teens

London is a busy city, so teens need to keep their wits about them rather than walking around while looking at their iPhone screen. It’s also wise to store any valuables in the hotel safe if you can, just in case. 

Make sure they know about all the potential dangers lurking in any big city, especially if they’re not familiar with big places. Stress that they must also return to an agreed location at a time specified by you when heading out to explore without parents.

Teens from drier climates may not be expecting wet weather, but it’s often a fact of life in London. Equip them with an umbrella if they refuse to wear a rain jacket, or you can buy packs of disposable ponchos for them to carry along. 

If they’re easily bored and will want to try every single one of the things to do in central London for a teenager, make sure you save as much time and money as possible by booking their tickets ahead of time.

We recommend Get Your Guide , who normally refund in full if you cancel 24 hours or more before the date or time of the event.

Make sure your teen knows how to use the public transport network if they are heading out solo – as well as what to do or who to approach in an emergency.

Oyster cards and the like can be tricky for newcomers, so try them out as a family before letting your teen loose. 

London with teens – FAQs

London is great for teens – there are so many amazing things for teenagers to do in London and the thought of impressing their friends should spur them on if nothing else!

Even when nothing on the list appeals or it’s pouring with rain, a browse around the shops of the Oxford Street area should put a smile on their faces – especially if they have some cash to spend.

A number of movies screened in the UK carry a ‘15’ rating, so your teen can go and see one of these without a parent if they like. 

For many things, they’ll have to wait until they’re 16, 17 or 18. 16 is the legal age of sexual consent in the UK, while drivers can begin learning at 17. The legal drinking age in the UK is 18. 

The teenage years are tricky for all concerned. Teens do need to develop their own identity and have a growing sense of independence as they progress through the pre-20 years. 

This is good to bear in mind when planning your trip, as your idea of London teenager activities may well be very different from theirs – and both parties may need to compromise. 

We hope that our top tips and list of things for teenagers to do in London has helped you plan your time in the UK capital. For more inspiration, don’t miss our guide to London for kids , as many of the activities and attractions included may also appeal to your older children.  

• London Travel Guide – links to everything you need to know to plan your trip
• Looking for accommodation? Read our guide to where to stay in London
• First time visitors? Read our top tips for visiting London for the first time
• How to get around London? Read our guide to using public transport in London and our guide to London’s manin trains stations.
• What to see and do – Complete London bucket list with guide to all the top sights and attractions & Guide to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• How to purchase tickets for London attractions – Guide to purchasing tickets for the lost popular London attractions & Best London bus tours reviewed
• Boat trips and cruises – Comparison guide to the best boat trips and cruises on the Thames
• Visiting on a budget? Read out budget guide to London with tips to save money when visiting
• Free things to do in London – Discover 32 free things to see and do in London
• Best day trips? Read our guide to the best day trips by train and ou r guide to the best tours from London
• Love castles? Our guide to the most popular castles to visit from London
• More for kids – 10 Best UK theme parks

53 extraordinary things to do in London with teenagers

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With architecture ranging from Roman to futuristic city skyscrapers and having been called home by Kings and rock stars, London has itself become something of a celebrity. This London travel guide is a shortcut to discovering the best things to do in London with teenagers.

Although London can seem a dauntingly enormous place to visit, most of the main London tourist attractions are located in the city centre. They are often to be found surprisingly close together. There are so many places to go with teens in London, and this post will help you plan your London itinerary with kids

Get tickets for London events

Shopping with teens in london, windsor castle, travel accessories for teenagers, what type of power sockets are used in the uk, know before you go our top london travel tips.

For your family trip to London, you will want to know the best places to stay in London, teen-friendly eateries in London, how to get around London, and all the best things to do in London with teens.

We want to give you some simple London travel tips for this epic family travel destination, making travelling to London with teens such an enriching experience for the whole family.

There are so many things to do in London for teenagers and having the best place to stay in London to explore and do fun activities is extremely important.

Below we’ve got some information to get you planning a family vacation to London to make it completely hassle-free. Here is all you need to know to plan your family holiday in London.

Where to stay in London with a teenager

You’ll never be short of options for your accommodation in London with teens. In London, you find a range of hotels, apartments and hostels. You will be sure to be able to find something to fit singles, couples, families and groups on every budget for your stay in London.

If you’re not keen on any of our picks below and are still looking for where to stay with a teenager in London, we recommend using  Expedia  and Agoda to find the best prices in London for your family vacation to London.

• For luxury, family-friendly hotels in London, we recommend The historic  Rubens at the Palace with family suites, Taj 51 Buckingham Gate with its classic afternoon teas and Claridge’s with its location close to Hyde Park.
• For affordable, family-friendly hotels in London, we recommend Paddington Novotel  with its illuminated pool, Travelodge London Covent Garden   offers family rooms, and YHA Central London is a great place for families exploring London.

London apartment alternative for your stay

If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation on your England trip with teenagers in London, then an apartment is the best choice for your family vacation. The city has so many options for singles, families, and budget-friendly options. You can search VRBO for apartments in London

If you’re looking for something fancier,  discover Plum Guide’s   exceptional luxury apartments, handpicked for their stunning views, prime locations, and indulgent amenities. With meticulous quality checks and a focus on unique experiences, they offer the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Experience the extraordinary and create unforgettable memories in these truly special accommodations

How to get to London

• London is serviced by 6 airports flying domestic and international visitors: Gatwick, Heathrow, Stanstead, London City, London Southend and Luton. Most visitors arrive via Heathrow or Gatwick both of which offer an express train service every 15 minutes to the centre of London (the journey takes 30 minutes).
• Alternatively, EasyBus provides an airport transport service or taxis and car hire are available. Heathrow even has its own underground station so you could start your holiday in London with teens by catching a London Tube. Book your flights to London with Kiwi Flights
• Arriving in London by train, you may find yourself at any one of a number of its main railway stations: Waterloo, Paddington, King’s Cross, St Pancras, Euston, Charing Cross, Victoria Station, London Bridge, Fenchurch Street and Liverpool Street. Your arrival station will depend on your departure point. Book ahead and nominate specific train times to get the cheapest prices using the Trainline website. All train stations have direct access to underground Tube stations for your onward journey across London with teenagers to your hotel. Book your Trains to London today!
• National Express coaches travel from across the nation and arrive at the London Victoria bus station. Megabus provides a budget national coach service which is a very easy way to get around England with teens. Search all your London bus tickets with Busbud today!
• Alternatively, you can hire a car, although driving into and around London is notoriously hectic and only for the brave! You can book a car and have it waiting at any of London’s airports if you decide to road trip in England.

How to get around London with teens

As you would imagine, London is well-serviced by public transport. To get around you can use buses, trains, ferries or the Tube. Thank goodness for Google Maps which will inform you which type of transport is available from wherever you may be, exactly where to get on and what time it is due.

Adults can use a credit card to tap, contact-free onto any bus, train, Tube or ferry and their fare will be automatically calculated at the end of the day. This can be cheaper and more convenient than buying individual tickets for each journey. Just make sure to use the same credit card each time!

Under 11’s travel for free around central London when accompanied by an adult. For children over 11, you will need to buy a Child’s Day travel card to save on buying separate tickets for each individual journey (and also to save money).

The Thames Clipper is a great way to see London with kids from the water. Riding under Tower Bridge at speed is a top London activity in its own right. Catching a red London bus is also a way to tick off another London bucket list icon.

Sit upstairs at the front for the best views in London. Don’t miss the Emirate cable cars which will transport you over the Thames by the Excel from £5 a ticket.

But the best way to get around London with kids without missing anything out is to walk! This way you won’t miss any of the best things to do in London with teens.

Weather in London

The hottest month of the year in London is in July in the middle of summer, with an average high of 22c (73°F) and a low of 15c (59°F). The cool season lasts for 4 months, from November 16 to March 18, with an average daily high temperature below 11c (53°F). It snows on average around 10 days every winter in the capital of England.

The coldest month of the year in London is February, with an average low of 3c (39°F) and a high of 8c (48°F). London has an ever-changing weather environment that can see rain and sun on any given day. Be prepared for a lot of cold and grey weather in London

London for international visitors

International travel to the United Kingdom and London requires a bit more thought. You will need travel insurance for medical care to be sure you are well taken care of. If you use your bank account from home, you will be stung with high transaction fees, while your mobile phone calls will all be charged at an international rate. These are just some of the things you need to think about.

• For International travellers, travel insurance is a must. Get a  quote through Insurance Masters
• Do you need a visa to visit London? The country of England may require you to have a visa or an ETA (Electronic travel authorization) to enter the country. You can check and buy these documents at iVisa
• Load  a Revolut Travel Money card  with Great British Pounds for your visit
• Get an  international sim card  for your mobile phone.
• A 4G pocket wifi modem is essential for accessing the internet anywhere. Renting a pocket modem is a great idea for your trip, these rental hotspots are usually delivered to your hotel or able to be picked up at the airport. For a more permanent travel solution, you can  buy  a pocket modem.

Get the Go London Pass

Get digital delivery of the Go London Pass to your device for easy use when you visit London with teens The Go London Pass offers the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which is brilliant for families on vacation.

There are so many things to do in London for families and you can save up to 33% off retail prices on admission to 60+ top central London attractions and London sightseeing tours including The Tower of London, and the London hop-on, hop-off bus.

Multi-entry passes such as this are great for families visiting London. Pick a 2, 3, 5 or 7 credits package and experience your London must-dos over 60 days. Book your Go London today

For concerts, theatre, stage shows and sporting events search TicketNetwork. TicketNetwork is an online marketplace that provides an outlet for buyers and sellers of tickets to live entertainment events. Search TicketNetwork for a special event when your family travel with teenagers in London.

Things to do in London with teenagers

Now that you have your arrival in London with teenagers and accommodation information all sorted, what are the best things to do with teenagers in London when you have unpacked your suitcases? Let’s have a look at London attractions for teenage tourists.

Frightening fun on a Ghost bus tour

A city like London that dates back over 2000 years has plenty of ghosts, myths and legends to explore. With your ghastly guide, you will visit infamous central London dark sites known for restless spirits, and pass chilling sites of murder, execution, and torture such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and the infamous Fleet Street.

Your London travel guide will entertain and educate you about the facts of London’s gruesome past. This has to be one of the most fun things for teens to do in London.

Book your Ghost bus tour today ↗

Search more london tours here ↗, burning butchery and black death walking tour.

They say teenagers love the macabre, well this London walking tour should be right up their alley! Hear about Kings and Queens, body snatchers, human slaughter, Black Death Corpses and more in this 2-hour London tour. The tour is limited to 10 people, so you can get the most off the London attraction with teens. Reserve your tickets today.

Tower Bridge in London

Tower Bridge London is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Britain. Spanning across the River Thames, it has become an internationally recognized symbol of the city’s history and development. Whether you’re planning a visit to London for a holiday or just want to take in its beauty, Tower Bridge is a must-see attraction.

Standing at 213 feet high, visitors get panoramic views over the river Thames and some of London’s most famous sites including The Shard and St Paul’s Cathedral. Visitors can explore both high levels connected by two walkways that provide stunning views over the city skyline.

There are a number of tours that you can do to learn more about the Tower Bridge. The Tower Bridge Experience takes you to the top, and a glass walkway is the best option for seeing and learning about the bridge.

Madame Tussauds London

Madame Tussauds London is a world-famous attraction that draws in hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.

The attraction is best known for its lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and fictional characters.

Visitors can get close to the wax figures, take photos, and even pose for selfies. Madame Tussauds, London, is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Book your entry tickets for teens in London today

Attractions for teenagers in London – The London Eye 

At the top of the list of London attractions for teenagers has to be the London Eye. Be whisked into the clouds in one of the glass bubbles on the London Eye for far-reaching views over the Thames, Big Ben, Parliament House and more. Sunset time slots can provide the best photographs for young people visiting London!

As part of the ticket, you will see a 4D cinema experience, where London’s landmarks appear to materialise in front of your eyes, and a foam snowstorm will bring it all to life in every sense. You can’t miss the London Eye, one of the iconic attractions in London. Book your tickets today.

Combining entry tickets for two or more attractions is a great way to save money. You can purchase a Madame Tussauds and London Eye ticket at a discount price.

Things for teenagers to do in London – The London Dungeons

The London Dungeon follows the successful formula of the other Dungeon sites across Europe and the UK. It is one of the most popular things for teens to do in London on the South Bank.

The concept is half history and half horror as you are taken through the gory history of London on a 1-hour experience with actors, lighting displays, props and much more at the London Dungeon.

The London Dungeon is a highly popular attraction in cities worldwide and is also high on the list of London attractions for teenage tourists. The Dungeon is located right next to the London Eye. Book your entry tickets today .

SeaLife London Aquarium

You will find many things to do in London with tweens. SEA LIFE London Aquarium is home to over 500 species in 14 themed zones over three floors, showcasing marine life worldwide.

See Sharks, Octopus and more, join one of the many daily interactive sessions and learn more about the animals behind the glass at SeaLife London. Book your SeaLife adventure today .

If you are looking to save on attractions in London, why not buy a combined Madame Tussauds and SealIfe Entry ticket and save

Camden Town

Take a Tube to Camden Town for an afternoon of Boho markets, buskers and quirky cafes set around the canal locks. Don’t miss the resident 1970’s 1970s-style punk rockers hanging out on the weekends. Wandering Camden Town is one of the best free things to do in London with teenagers.

Adhered to brightly painted shop fronts, you will find huge and slightly surreal 3D artefacts in various shapes – from sneakers to food. Teenagers in London will love the subterranean Cyberdog shop with its neon lighting, techno beats and a 20-foot metallic cyborg guarding the entrance.

Related Post: 27 best things to do in Liverpool with teens

Places in London for Teenagers – Brick Lane

In Brick Lane, you can explore some of the many markets hidden down its back alleyways. You will find vintage fashion, eco-friendly bamboo products and a variety of Brick Lane bric-a-brac.

These fun family activities in London are also a great place to soak up the atmosphere, try one of the street’s famous bagels or even stay for a legendary Brick Lane curry. Curry is the national dish of England and one of the most popular things to eat.

If you want family-friendly things to do in London, you should tour the urban art in the Shore Ditch area by Brick Lane. You can find a more extensive write-up on street art later in the article.

Top things to do in London for teenagers – British Museum

One of the best experiences for teenagers in London is a visit to the British Museum. The British Museum is home to a vast collection of items from all over the world.

The museum has something for every travelling teenager, whether it is Egyptian mummies, the Rosetta Stone or the Hoa Hakananai’a.

The British Museum has roughly 80,000 items on display at any one time. This is a popular choice with families visiting London and one of the best world schooling things to do in London with teenagers. Book a British Museum ticket here

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Visit Hyde Park on a holiday to the capital of England

On a sunny day, Hyde Park can provide entertainment for the whole family in London. You can dip your toes in the Dianna Memorial Fountain (one of the great free things to do in the city), hire a rowing boat on the Serpentine or even try some open-air swimming at the Lido.

Bring a picnic or stop at one of the many cafés in Hyde Park for a bite to eat. A real highlight, if you bring an apple, is to head to the Peter Pan statue by the Italian fountains and feed the bright green parakeets who have taken up residence in the park’s trees.

You may end up looking like the bird lady from Mary Poppins, in the nicest possible way. Feeding the birds is a fun family activity in Hyde Park.

The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros London Studio Tour

If you have a Harry Potter fan in your household then a trip to the Harry Potter Studios in London is a London bucket list item that has to be ticked off. Visit the film studio near London where the movies were filmed and see original sets and reconstructions of places from the movie.

Teens will love the Studio Tour London and all the original sets and props. You will even get a chance to have yourself a butter beer on the studio tour, it’s definitely one of the cool things to do in London with teens on your vacation.

Harry Potter Films Tours in London

Harry Potter has become one of the most popular franchises in the world. Every year, millions of people visit London to see the sights that inspired the Harry Potter books and movies.

There are many different Harry Potter tours available in London, each offering a unique experience. Whether you want to explore the real-life locations of Hogwarts or learn about the making of the movies, there’s a Harry Potter tour for you.

• Join a Harry Potter films walking tour. The guides are usually from the acting community, and as well as taking you to the filming locations, they will regale you with Potter trivia and stories of local witchcraft which inspired the novels. Book your walking tour today
• Do you want to see the actual filming location in London, where the Harry Potter film series was made? Follow a guide along through Soho to see the Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square, see the locations, and hear movie trivia as you go. Book your Harry Potter Locations tour.
• Why not turn your love of the Harry Potter films into an adventure? Embark on a quest around London to find locations and learn facts about the Harry Potter movies in this family-friendly exploration game.
• Why not combine two things that London is famous for, black cabs and Harry Potter into one fantastic day tour? Your trip to London for teenagers will be memorable as you cruise around the city in a black cab visiting Harry Potter locations. Book your black cab tour today.
• A Harry Potter-styled photo shoot might just make the best memories with teenagers in London. Visit all the Harry Potter sights with a photographer who will capture the magic moments in a professional photo shoot. Book your photo shoot today

Tower of London

London has thousands of years of history to share, and one of the most visually appealing London family attractions is the Tower of London . No family trip to London is complete without a visit to its 900-year-old White Tower.

The fortified complex is home to Royal Suits of Armour, the infamous Ravens are the stars of the show and the Crown Jewels. The Crown jewels are a sight to see, with the Cullinan Diamond and the Sword of Mercy.

Catch one of the entertaining tours run by the Beefeaters, who have each seen 20 years of military service and enjoy telling tales of royal beheading and Princely murder.

The Tower, of London, is one of the best activities in London for teenage tourists. Consider doing a VIP Tower of London and Crown Jewels Tour with Private Beefeater Meet & Greet to get the most out of your visit.

Houses of Parliament

If the weather has turned bad and you are looking for things to do indoors in London watch a live debate in the House of Commons, with the added opportunity of getting a glimpse of the Prime Minister or another celebrity politician.

Alternatively, take a family tour (kids go free) behind the scenes for a chance to walk through the old Palace of Westminster, explore the extravagant House of Lords and stand on the green benches usually occupied by MPs. The building is located next door to Westminster Abbey.

For many, this is one of the best things to do in London with teenagers for world schooling.

Imperial War Museum for teens in London

The Imperial War Museum is the perfect place to take teens visiting London with an interest in modern history. In front of the building, you will find a piece of the Berlin Wall itself.

Head inside for a life-sized display of military vehicles and an incredibly moving exhibition on the holocaust (with an advisory for those over 14). Places like this can get busy on school holidays.

Read more: Thrilling teen adventure activities all over the UK you have to try!

Powerboat down the Thames

The mighty Thames River runs through the heart of the city and London sightseeing from the water is one of the best family activities in London with kids.

All the major London tourist attractions such as The London Eye, Big Ben and Parliament House occupy prime real estate on its banks. A super-fast boat takes you at speeds up to 35 miles (56 km) down the river.

This seat-of-your-pants teens adventure experience will have you zooming along on a rigid inflatable boat past iconic landmarks like Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Eye. Onboard commentary will educate and entertain you and this small group London experience for teenagers.

What to do in London with teen? -Indoor Skydiving

Indoor skydiving is a new trend that is catching on with teenagers. It is a safe way to experience the thrill of skydiving and  the feeling of freefall in a vertical wind tunnel.

The powerful fans create an upward flow of air that allows you to float in mid-air, just like you would during a real skydive. This makes it a fun and challenging activity that is perfect for teenagers who want to try something new and exciting.

The indoor sky diving facility in London at the O2 has have packages that include training, gear rental, and multiple flights.

Buckingham Palace  

In the summer months, the Palace usually opens up to the public, and you can enjoy quite a spectacular tour of its golden interior. Visiting the Royal Residence, Buckingham Palace with teenagers would be top of most London bucket list attractions for any family in London. It is a not to be missed opportunity to see life as a Monarch.

Alternatively, catch one of the daily changing of the guard processions which take place in front of the Palace, with marching bands and horse-backed soldiers on parade. Catching one of the parade ranks is one of the top free things to do in London with kids.

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Things to do for teenagers in London – Catch a show

The West End has an international reputation for putting on a show and is a brilliant London evening activity for teens. Teenagers are spoiled for choice with Kion King , Frozen the musical, Stranger Things , Back to the Future or any number of whole-family classics in the West End.

The theatres in the west end themselves are lavishly decorated, and a ticket to a show makes for a memorable evening out on the town in London with a teenage girl.

If your travelling teen is studying Shakespeare at school (aren’t they all?) one of the best London activities with teenagers is a visit to the replica of Shakespeare’s 17 th  Century Globe Theatre. Watch the performance in the non-seated pit area for the full, historically immersive experience. For this family-friendly activity in London’s west end, tickets start at only £5!

You can also book a theatre tour, run by the actors when they are not on stage, for a chance to tread the boards yourself. Put this on your London bucket list for family travel with teenagers in London.

Discover the Best Exhibitions and Shows in London in 2024

London is a city that never fails to surprise visitors in 2024, explore the exhibitions and shows that are set to take place, From art to music, from sports to rock stars, Madrid has something to offer everyone.

But here’s the catch: these exhibitions and shows are not permanent fixtures. They run for a limited time, and once they’re gone, they’re gone. That’s why it’s essential to plan your trip now and book tickets in advance. Don’t risk missing out on these exceptional events that will only be around for a limited time, so do not miss out

• Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
• Monet: The Immersive Experience

Things to do in London with kids – scavenger / treasure hunt

If you are looking for great vacations with teen ideas, look no further than a family scavenger hunt.  Instead of a traditional sightseeing tour, get to know London uniquely with a scavenger hunt. It really is one of the best things to do in london with kids

On your hunt, you will discover both popular and lesser-known sights of the city as you solve clues and tackle challenges to complete the adventure. Scavenger hunts are completely unique things to do in London with teenyboppers.

• London Treasure Hunt – Outbreak London
• Secrets of the Squares – Immersive Treasure Hunt Experience
• Zombie Scavengers Game 

Play a life sized version of Monopoly

This has to be one of the best days out in london for teenagers. Monopoly has come to life on a 5m x 15m lifesized Monopoly board .

This immersive, physical version of Monopoly in London features escape room challenges, a real jail, and giant dice.

Engage in unique challenges for the opportunity to acquire properties. Feel the excitement of orchestrating a heist in Mayfair, race against the clock to construct iconic London buildings, unravel perplexing murder mysteries, or dive into the realm of codebreakers.

Looking to catch the ferry to Europe? Here is a guide on the best ways to catch the DFDS ferry

Watch a football match with teens in London

Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports today. You can watch several teams in London, such as Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham .

You can head to stadiums such as The Emirates, Hotspur Stadium , Craven Cottage and Stamford Bridge. Even if you are unfamiliar with the sport, the arena comes alive, and the atmosphere is electric. Attending a game would have to be one of the unique activities in London for teens.

The football season in Europe runs from September through April. There are several football stadium tours that you can do or you can buy tickets for the games.

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Jack the Ripper walking tour

Diving into the Darkside of London’s history is the Jack the Ripper walking tour, an experience in London for teens who are in the older age bracket.

You will set off in a small group with a tour guide, where you will view photographic evidence and hear true stories about the investigation to try and find a killer.

You will be given suspect cards and clues to investigate the alleged perpetrators. The tour mixes entertainment and education to find out about the victims, suspects, and life in the poor neighbourhood of Whitechapel.

Head back to 1888 with your expert Ripperologist guide as you try to solve the murders that gripped London. This may be one of the things to do with teenagers in London who are a little older.

Climb the roof of the O2 Arena

The landmark, well-known entertainment arena in London is the O2 stadium, which is one of the top London tourist attractions. For thrill-seekers and young people, you can join a tour and climb the roof of the London stadium.

Your instructors will get you kitted out with a climb suit, boots and harness and deliver safety instruction before climbing the roof.

You will cross the walkway suspended 52 meters in the air. Once at the top, pause to take in panoramic views over Greenwich, the Olympic Park, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Canary Wharf and The Shard. For Family holidays with teenagers in London, this would be a top memorable moment when visiting London.

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Things to do in London for young adults – London in the Sky

How would feel about being hoisted up on a secure dining platform 100 feet (ca. 30 m) in the air above London for a few hours? This will make a truly unique dining experience in London with teens.

London in the Sky runs for a limited period in the summer months and really is one of the cool things for teenagers to do in London. You can choose different dining packages from breakfast & brunch right through to lunch, afternoon tea, and amazing sunset dinners.

The truly spectacular setting makes it one of London’s most memorable teen activities. For more information, click through to London in the Sky website .

Not sure what your teen will need on holiday?  Click here to get all the top sellers for your travelling teens

Silent Disco in London

If you’re looking for fun and unique things to do in London, look no further than a silent disco tour. Your family and friends can explore the city while listening and dancing to great tunes on a hi-tech headset in a group environment. A Silent Disco is a perfect way to let loose and have a great time.

Silent discos are becoming increasingly popular with teenagers in London. They provide a safe and enjoyable environment for young people to enjoy themselves as their inhibitions evaporate, and you have fun on the best all-dancing, all-singing walking tour in town.

You’re guaranteed to have a great time on a truly fun and unique experience in London, Book your silent disco experience today .

Things to do in London with teenage girls – High Tea

What could be more quintessentially British than a high tea? This afternoon tradition involves savoury sandwiches, cakes pastries, and of course, tea. For mothers and daughters, afternoon tea is a cherished ritual that often brings them closer together.

High tea first became popular in the early 1800s, when aristocrats would gather in the late afternoon for a light meal. The spread would typically include cakes, tea, and sandwiches. These days, high tea is still enjoyed by many Britons as a special treat.

If you’re looking for something to do in London with teenage girls, then you may want to experience high tea firsthand, there are plenty of places to go in the United Kingdom.

But be warned – it can be quite addictive! Once you’ve had a taste of those delicious treats, you’ll likely want to indulge again and again.

Go Ape Battersea – London with tweens

For fun places for teens to go who love outdoor adventure experiences then Go Ape Battersea is just the place. Located on a short trip by train from the centre of London, you will find Go Ape in Battersea Park in Chelsea.

Ensure you are okay with heights before taking on Battersea’s Treetop Challenge. Over on the Adventure course, the Fisherman’s Net and thrilling zip wires keep the adventure coming. Any families visiting London with 12-year-olds and above will have fun at Go Ape.

Frameless Immersive Art Experience in London

Cities all over the world are launching these types of multi-sensory art experiences.

London is no different with Frameless featuring four galleries, showcasing 42 masterpieces in ways never seen before. Families can experience sections like “Beyond Reality,” “Colour in Motion,” “The World Around Us,” and “The Art of Abstraction. make sure your teens have their cameras ready. Book tickets today .

Amusement Arcades for London teenagers

Amusement arcades offer a variety of entertainment options for teenagers as a great way to spend a few hours having fun.

They can play the newest video games or indulge in some classic pinball machines of the past. Some of the more modern arcades will have Laser Tag, bumper cars and indoor mini golf as options.

Arcades are popular because they offer things to do that are fun and affordable to do, most arcades have afood and beverage options for you. There are some great arcades in London such as Las Vegas Arcade Soho, Funland Games Arcade and Babylon Park

Bungee Jump near Battersea Park London

For thrill-seeking extreme activity-loving teens, bungee jumping in London should be on your list. For ages 14 and upwards, you can do a 160-foot bungee jump at Battersea Park. An expert instructor will help you prepare for the jump and safely fit your ankle harnesses and all necessary equipment.

You will have a briefing and a pep talk to inform and calm you before taking the plunge. You will head up to the top of the crane for your free fall, with all of London sprawling before you!

Photos and videos will be available as keepsakes to remember this London experience. Organize your London Bungee experience and book online today.

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Adventure activities for teens in London – Abseiling

Do you like thrilling activities, the type of attraction that is half exciting, half scary and a lot challenging?

ArcelorMittal Orbit in east London is the largest sculpture in the United Kingdom, and it’s all yours to abseil down. After some short instruction, you will get suited up and ready to descend this 114-meter structure. It also abseils the ArcelorMittal Orbit, home to the world’s longest tunnel slide.

The ArcelorMittal Orbit slide has 12 twists & turns, making the longest tunnel slide a must-do thing when visiting the capital of the United Kingdom.

It is worth a visit for thrill seekers in London for breathtaking views. Learn more about this thrilling experience today

Night bus tour of London

Looking for things to do in London with teens at night? Why not jump on a bus tour that shows you the city all lit up? See iconic central London landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge. Your included audio guide will keep you informed on this memorable tour at night .

London hop on hop off bus tour

One of the best ways to see a big city like London is on a hop on hop off bus tour.

Explore London aboard the open-top, double-decker Big Bus with customizable 24 or 48-hour tickets that allows you visit iconic London attractions such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey.

These tours allow your family the flexibility to get on and off at any attraction that suits you. Most of these tour have an audio guide onboard and some been have the option of a boat cruise on the Thames.

We not save some money on your London family vacation and buy a combined ticket that includes a London Eye Ticket, London Hop-on Hop-Off Tour & River Cruise

Batterea Power Station Lift 109

Explore exciting activities for teens in London with a visit to the iconic Battersea Power Station in South London.

Travel up 109 meters to the top of the north-west chimney for a breathtaking 360-degree view of London’s skyline. After capturing memorable selfies, wander Electric Boulevard, featuring high-end fashion brands. Indulge in delicious food from the diverse range of outlets in the area, making it one of the perfect London attractions for young adults

Most Instagramable places in London

Social media is important to teenagers on holiday, and Instagram is one of the most popular photo apps for sharing your holidays with teenagers.

London has many amazing spots worth visiting to lighten up the lens, and it is a great way to see the City of London for free.

Some of the best spots for Instagram in London are Notting Hill, The London Eye, Hillsgate Place, Neals Yard, Hampton Court Palace, London Museums, London Dungeons, The Royal Opera House and the Sky Garden.

London Tiktok inspiration

If you’re in need of some inspiration, look no further than TikTok. This app is full of creative content and talented influencers from London. From fashion to beauty to DIY, there’s something for everyone on TikTok. Here are just a few of our favourite London TikTok accounts to help inspire you and plan for your vacation.

• @ visitlondon
• @ kelseyinlondon

Professional photoshoot in London for families

As our kids get older, we spend less and less time with them, making family memories. One excellent way to capture some of these important family vacation moments is to hire a professional photographer for a few hours to make some lifelong memories for you.

Go to places like Covent Gardens, Oxford Street, east London, the Sky Garden or The Natural History Museum, Hampton Court Palace, Notting Hill or the West End just to name a few.

The photographer will supply everything, your family just needs to provide the smiles for your London photoshoot. Book your memory-making shoot today.

Find street art in London

London offers a vibrant street art scene, perfect for teenagers who appreciate urban creativity. Shoreditch, a hotspot, showcases dynamic murals and graffiti on Brick Lane and its neighbouring streets.

Leake Street Tunnel, near Waterloo Station, known as the “Banksy Tunnel,” provides a legal space for artists to express themselves.

Camden’s alternative atmosphere features colorful artwork along its High Street. Southbank Skate Park combines skate culture with street art, while Hackney Wick along the River Lea offers an industrial backdrop for local artists. Dulwich Outdoor Gallery reinterprets classic art in a contemporary urban style.

Brixton’s eclectic charm includes street art in its vibrant markets and streets. Explore these accessible spots for a captivating street art experience in London.

Axe throwing in London for young adults

Axe Throwing is a new phenomenon that is sweeping around the world. London is home to Whistle Punks Urban Axe Throwing , a successful chain of venues in England.

Axe throwing might be just the family competition that will last in the memories forever and make your vacations with teenagers unforgettable.

I am sure your teenagers will head home talking about this amazing family travel experience. Instructors will teach you how to throw and handle an axe safely before you start.

Not sure what your teens need on vacation?  Read our guide on all the best travel essentials for teens

Take a cooking class

Some teens cook some teens get served, so why not take a cooking class on your family vacation in England? Food plays a huge part in the local culture in the places you vacation with teenagers.

Is there one meal that you just love? Maybe this is a way to learn how to cook it yourself. Why not kickstart your kid’s cooking skills with a cooking class?

Most places these days have a mix of traditional cooking and fusion meals available for you to learn during a cooking experience. Search for cooking classes in London today

Fun things to do in England for young adults – Escape Rooms in London

For those new to Escape Rooms, this is a quick run down. An escape room, also known as an escape game, is a physical adventure game in which players solve a series of puzzles and riddles using clues, hints, and strategies to complete the objectives at hand.

The building may consist of a large, single room, or span multiple rooms. Players are given a set time limit to unveil the secret plot which is hidden within the rooms. This sort of challenging activity makes fun vacations for teens.

There are many escape room options in London, here are some of the most central:

• Escape Room London Bridge : Rear of, 134 Tooley St, London SE1 2TU
• Escape Room London : 37-39 Oxford St, London W1D 2DU
• AIM Escape Rooms : Goodmans Fields, 8 Canter Way, London E1 8PS

Cinemas in London

A perennial favourite with teenagers in London, whether visiting or residents, is the cinema. London, like any major city in England, has a wide range of cinemas for you to attend, and cinema buffs will be delighted with state-of-the-art screens.

London’s cinemas are often the setting for red-carpet premiere events. Below you will find a list of the best cinemas in London if you are looking for things to do indoors in London:

1. The  Genesis  in Bethnal Green has been voted the best cinema in London and one of the top 50 most beautiful cinemas in the world by Timeout magazine. A cosy art house cinema in a renovated 19th-century building, it features comfy sofas and luxury lighting.

2. The quirky Electric Cinema in Portobello Road comes with 6 velvet double beds in the front row. Also available are leather armchairs, blankets and waiter service for your drinks. Add this to your list of fun places for teens to go to in London.

3. The Art Deco Odeon Luxe in Leicester Square, was built in 1937 and is often the site of film premieres.

4. The  BFI Southbank  in Waterloo hosts the London Film Festival and comes with 2 bar restaurants on the banks of the Thames.

Teenage things to do in London – 10 Pin bowling

10-pin bowling is a great family activity to do with teenagers in London. There is nothing like a bit of family competition and 10-pin bowling in London is just the thing. Strikes, spares, and gutter balls are all part of the action.

1.  All-Star Lanes have bowling alleys all over London and go for a retro USA 1950s vibe.

2.  Hollywood Bowl also offers bowling in venues across the city with an American diner theme and burgers on the side. Bring out the fun family activities in London with dinner and a game here!

3.  At Queens Skate Dine Bowl , after you have scored your final strike for the evening, you can try your hand at skating or karaoke.

Search here for all the very best travel products for your family vacation to London and beyond!

Going to the gym in London

Fitness is very important to a lot of travelling teenagers these days. Working out is a big part of a healthy lifestyle. Just because one is travelling with teenagers it does not mean you need to stop working out.

In London, you can go to a number of gyms that sell passes ranging from a day to a week and a month. You can find a list of Gyms in London on the Trainaway Fit website.

Teenage holiday activities in London

London bike riding is a popular family activity in London when travelling with teenagers. A Bike ride allows you to experience your location either in town or out in the surrounding areas and is a great addition to your family holidays with teenagers in London.

You will find bike tours are the best way to go for an up-close and personal experience. You will either have a London tour guide to point out all the important London tourist attractions or a map to follow.

The bike tours will take you on a London family vacation 2-wheeled adventure. Alternatively, you can find locations that hire bikes and let you explore London with your family on your own.

There are so many areas that offer a plethora of shopping opportunities for teenagers in London. From High Street shopping like Oxford Street in London to quirky markets around London, there is a shopping district that will make London rate as one of the best teenage vacation destinations.

Markets in London for families

In addition to the markets at Camden and Brick Lane, don’t miss the famous antique market at Portobello Road, which has a different theme each day. Covent Garden has high-end boutiques and an alfresco café next to the historic covered markets.

If visiting on a weekend, you can experience the riot of colour that is the Columbia Rd Sunday Flower Market. These are all some of the best free things to do in London with teenagers.

High street stores 

The nation’s cornerstone branches of all the major high-street stores can be found on Oxford Street. Turn the corner into Bond Street for the high-end shops, where prices for antique paintings and exotic furniture are on request only. One can easily spend all day on Oxford St exploring the shops.

Don’t forget to pop over to Harrods (if only for window shopping), the M and M Store in Leicester Square (for chocoholics) or the 5-storey toy store, Hamleys, for the chance to play Frisbee or laser tag with one of the toy demonstrators.

Accessed by its ornate gate, Chinatown can be found just around the corner from Leicester Square and is a great place to stop for dinner.

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Free things to do in London with teens

London offers some of the best free things to do with your teenage family members. These free City of London activities are perfect for keeping everyone happy and entertained without having to spend any money.

There are also plenty of affordable restaurants and shops where you can shop for souvenirs without breaking the bank. Some of our recommendations for free family activities in London are as follows.

• Take a Free self-guided walking tour
• Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• Public Viewing Gallery at the Oxo Tower
• See the Deer in Richmond Park

Things to do in London this weekend with teens

There are numerous things to do in London this weekend, such as visiting historical landmarks, attending cultural festivals, and exploring renowned museums.

On any given weekend in London, you will find many events such as concerts, markets, festivals and sporting activities to see. Search the Visit London website for things to do in London today.

Annual events in London that teens will love

London is a city with a rich culture and history. Many annual events take place that can be enjoyed by families and teens visiting London Some of these events include:

• Pride in London Festival – A two-week event to celebrate the diversity of the LGBT+ community
• Notting Hill Carnival in London – Millions of people take to the streets of Notting Hill for this celebration of Caribbean heritage
• London St Patrick’s Day Festival – London  celebrates St Patrick’s Day with a huge parade

These events and more help to make London a vibrant and exciting city to visit on your next family travel vacation.

Day trips from London for teenagers

Some of the best holidays for teenagers include trips from London. There are so many great places to visit near London. Many day trips from London are easily done using trains and other public transport. It is easy to plan ahead and organize a memorable day.

Add some fantastic day trips from London with teenagers to your London itinerary. If you have a spare day, any one of these destinations would be a fun day out with teenagers.

Brighton is an hour south by train from London, a seaside getaway for Londoners and one of the best places to go with teens out of London.

Head for the arcades and rides on Brighton Pier and take a photo by the beautiful Pavilion before tucking into a traditional fish and chip supper on the beach. Don’t forget to wander the cobbled and atmospheric back streets in the Lanes market.

1 hour and 20 minutes by train to the West of London you will find the gloriously yellow Bath Stone architecture of Bath .

Wander along the Royal Crescent, tour the steaming Roman Baths and maybe even go for a dip in the luxurious Thermal Baths, a multi-storey spa complex with an open-air rooftop pool. You can make teenage vacations fun with a Bath in Bath!

Over 16’s are permitted in the main baths, and you can book over 12s into the Cross Keys pool. Book a day tour to Bath that includes a stop at Stonehenge.

Canterbury is southwest of London, close to the Kent coastline. Many people use Canterbury as a stop-off point before catching a ferry across the English Channel .

The town is worth a trip from London with teens alone to see its well-preserved old town area and world-famous Canterbury Cathedral. Book a day tour to Canterbury.

There are some amazing options for day tours from London, and we could have made a list as long as your arm. Some other recommendations include the Cotswolds, York, Stonehenge, Stratford on Avon and even Paris, Amsterdam or Brugges.

More day trips from London with teen ideas:

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Discover all the very  best things to do in Edinburg with teenagers

Top sightseeing tours from London

There are so many places to visit around London that you may want to relax on an organised tour to some of the top places on a day trip from London with teens. Let someone take the hassle out of a trip from London with these top destinations for the family from London.

The Cotswolds

One of the most picturesque places in England, a day trip to the Cotswolds is at the top of many London bucket lists. A guided tour of the Cotswolds will ease you to the main towns and back. Put this destination on your London sightseeing itinerary with a guided tour.

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument that must-see if you visit London with your family. Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England.

It’s about a 2-hour drive from the city and makes for a great day trip if you’re interested in history and culture. The site is open to the public year-round, and there is an onsite museum where you can learn more about its origins and purpose.

Windsor Castle is a royal residence that is still in use today. Its amazing art collection and gardens are a sight to behold. Day trips to Windsor from London are brilliant for families travelling with teens. Visiting Windsor Castle is an amazing experience and an iconic venue.

Fun things to do in London for young adults

London offers a plethora of fun things for young adults to do. This bustling city caters to all interests, from vibrant nightlife to cultural attractions.

The city’s well-connected public transportation system facilitates easy exploration of its diverse neighbourhoods, each with its own distinctive character and charm.

London boasts world-class museums such as the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum, where young adults can explore fascinating art, history, and science exhibits. Unique activities like Beer Bike Tours , Street Art Workshops and outdoor escape games are attractive options

Moreover, London’s diverse culinary scene caters to all tastes, with trendy cafes, street food markets, and Michelin-starred restaurants providing a wide range of culinary experiences.

Nightlife enthusiasts can enjoy the vibrant clubbing scene in areas like Soho and Shoreditch , where they can dance the night away to various genres of music. With its dynamic blend of history, culture, and entertainment, London truly has something for every young adult seeking an unforgettable experience.

Where to eat with teens in London

Some of the best vacations with teenagers include a memorable meal that the whole family remembers. There are many places to eat in London for teenagers that will suit all budgets.

Wetherspoons

For classic English dinners at budget prices ,  with free refills for drinks, go for a Wetherspoons, branches of which can be found all over London for lunch and dinner.

Eataly is one of the newest places in London to enjoy Italian food. Eataly has 3 restaurants under 1 roof for you to choose from. The location in Bishops Gate also has shops selling the best Italian products for you.

Franco Manca’s

For delicious and affordable sourdough pizza, pop into any of London’s Franco Manca’s. One conveniently located making great food is next to Covent Garden and another by St Paul’s Cathedral.

The Golf Groove

Why not combine a fun indoor golf simulation with some burgers, wraps and share plates? No matter what your golfing level of experience is, anyone can play and eat here.

The V and A Museum Cafe

After you have ticked off a visit to the Victoria and Albert Museum, one of the top London museums for teens, you may need a bite to eat. The V and A Museum café is a treat for the eyes and the taste buds. William Morris himself decorated one of the very fabulous rooms.

Street food in London for teens to try

Street food is popular in many parts of the world. It’s a quick and easy way to get delicious local food without going to a full restaurant. Street food can be found in many different styles and options.

Some of the most well-known street foods include tacos in Mexico, Zapiekanka in Poland, Dan Dan noodles in China, and Shawarma in Middle Eastern countries. Street food in London often originates in the cultural history of people who have immigrated to the United Kingdom.

The most popular London street foods include fish and chips, cheese, gravy, or pork pie. There are many delicious treats in London to find and eat.

See more of the world: All the best things to do in Barcelona Spain

For teenagers, travelling can be a fun and exciting experience. However, there are a few things that they need to take into account to make the trip as comfortable and safe as possible. One of these is ensuring that they have the necessary travel accessories.

• Powerbank   to keep phones going .
• Action camera
• Foldable jewellery case for girls
• Bluetooth travel speaker
• Compression packing cubes for luggage
• Lightweight daypack
• Travel Journal
• Travel neck wallet
• Wearable super soft travel blanket
• Scarf with hidden pockets for money & cards

Frequently asked questions about London

London is one of the best family city breaks in Europe and a place to vacation with teenagers. There are many things to consider when planning your family vacation to London.

Here is a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about the city to help you make your family vacation to London easy and hassle-free.

Is London a safe city for family vacations?

London is considered a very safe city for the most part, completely safe to travel to, and if you use your common sense, your trip should go smoothly.

How do I call the police in the UK?

The emergency number for all services is 999.

Is tipping required in the UK?

Tipping is not expected in Britain like in some other countries. Workers don’t officially have to rely on their tips to live, and all staff in the UK must be paid at least the National Minimum Wage

Can you drink tap water in London?

Tap water around the UK is regarded as some of the cleanest in the world, making London tap water safe to drink.

The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. The 3-pin power plugs and sockets are type G.

Where are the best places to stay in London with teenagers

At the top of the article, we suggested some accommodation choices. If you are looking for a wider variety of choices please find below an interactive map from Booking.com to find your perfect stay in London. Try to stay somewhere central. It may cost a little extra, but it will save on public transport costs.

Are you looking to book flights, hotels, apartments, tours, airport transfers, travel insurance and more for your vacation with young adults? Are you just not sure what travel companies you can trust to book your family travel online? We have a family travel resource page that is full of companies that we personally use, trust and book through for all our family vacation trips from a weekend away to long-term travel with older children around the world. Click here to  search our travel resources page.

This article was written with Helen from www.holidaysfromhels.co.uk  for us here at Wyld Family Travel. London has so much to offer teens, whatever their interests. London can be on your list for family vacations with teenagers with so much to do in the city.

Travelling with young adults, teens, and tweens has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations,  working out a budget , deciding what bags and suitcases to take, travelling essentials , and more can be time-consuming. Planning family travel with teenagers and tweens can be stressful , and finding the best travel tips is essential. 

Our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides have you covered! With insights from around the globe, these guides will spark inspiration for your next family vacation , making it an epic adventure with your teens.

• Travel for Teens in Europe
• Travel for Teens Americas
• Travel with teens in Asia
• Travel teens in Australasia
• Travel teens in the Middle East
• Travel teens tips, tricks and advice

For more unique ideas on where to holiday in England with family, click through to our  England Destination Page   for more brilliant inspiration.

More travel inspiration for your trip to England

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YHA Canterbury reviewed for families

Rebecca Wyld

[email protected]

Content Creator/SEO Editor

Co-founder and SEO editor here at Wyld Family Travel. Bec has travelled to over 45 countries across 3 continents and is a journey with kids advocate. When Bec is not planning travel, she creates content for our family travel blog or does local community service work. You can find all of Bec’s detailed travel guides here on Wyld Family Travel and on other popular websites such as Lonely Planet.

London Business Mag is the best UK blog for discovering more cool stuff on the internet.

Best Places to Visit in UK for Young Adults – Top 10 Places

• by Lucy James
• January 7, 2023
• Less than a minute

Table of Contents

The UK is a diverse place with beautiful landscapes, fascinating history, and delicious food. It’s no surprise that many travelers from all over the world want to visit this place. The young adult population of the UK also has a large following online. So if you’re an adult who is about to start a family and looking for an unforgettable trip with your partner or friends, this blog is for you! Here we’ve listed some of the best places to visit in the UK that are ideal for couples and budding families alike. Let’s get into it!

1. Edinburg

Edinburgh is a beautiful and historic city located in Scotland that offers plenty of the best things to do for visitors of all ages. Edinburgh Castle is a must-see attraction for tourists, as is Princes Street Gardens with its many shops and restaurants. Many lively pubs and clubs in Edinburgh offer great night outs with friends or family members. Edinburgh has excellent public transportation connections that make it easy to get around town no matter where you want to go. Suppose you’re looking for an activity that’s more vigorous than hanging out at pubs or watching traditional Scottish performances.

In that case, there are plenty of outdoor activities such as climbing and golfing available in and around Edinburgh. Finally, if you’re looking for something more active, there are plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling available in and around the city.

Derby is a city in the East Midlands of England. It is known for its horse racing industry and historic architecture. The city has a variety of attractions, such as the Royal Derby Hospital and the Henry Moore Museum. These attractions showcase the heritage of Derby. In addition to these, there are many great nightlife options in Derby, including numerous pubs and nightclubs. The city’s vibrant nightlife and thriving food scene make it a great place to visit with family and friends.

There are plenty of budget hotels and hotels and hostels in Derby for visitors looking for affordable accommodation. There are also plenty of luxury hotels in the city for those who want extra comfort and amenities. For those looking for something more adventurous, there are plenty of activities to choose from, such as day trips to nearby national parks or ziplining experiences. If you’re looking for a city that offers a lot to see and do, then you should definitely visit Derby!

London is a vibrant and eclectic city that offers a variety of attractions and activities for young adults. Some of the best museums and art galleries in the world can be found in the city, including the National Gallery, Tate Modern, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The city also has some of the best nightlife in the UK, with popular venues such as London’s West End and Chinatown London providing world-class entertainment. Young adults can enjoy a wide range of cultural events and festivals, including Wimbledon and Glastonbury.

Young adults can also enjoy a number of parks in London, such as Hyde Park and Regent’s Park. These are excellent places to spend time outdoors, offering beautiful scenery and lots of activities for all ages. There are plenty of warm and cozy restaurants and bars catering to all tastes and budgets in the city, making it an ideal place for young adults to hang out and have fun.

4. Manchester

If you’re looking for a place to visit that offers a wide range of attractions for young adults, then there’s no doubt that Manchester is the place for you. The city has plenty of things to see and do, from world-famous attractions such as the Manchester Arena and The Lowry to popular nightlife options such as pubs and clubs. Whether you’re an avid shopper or prefer to explore on your own, you won’t have any difficulty finding something that appeals to you. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities in Manchester, from high-end stores to quirky boutiques.

Plus, young adults in the city can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from cycling to skiing and hiking. Overall, it’s a great place for young adults to visit and experience all that the city has to offer.

Bristol has a lot to offer young adults, including plenty of nightlife and cultural attractions. It’s also a great place to live – with low crime rates and excellent infrastructure, it’s a great place to raise a family. One of the best things about Bristol is its thriving arts scene. There are many theaters, concert halls and galleries that offer events that are guaranteed to entertain and excite even the most ardent music lover.

And if you’re looking for something more active, there are plenty of sporting facilities available from golf courses to swimming pools are perfect for those summer days spent outdoors. Overall, Bristol is a great place to live, work, and play perfect for young adults who want to experience everything life has to offer.

6. Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a vibrant city with a rich history. It has world-renowned universities and a thriving arts and culture scene, making it an exciting place to visit. There are plenty of attractions that young adults can enjoy, such as the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre and the Grosvenor Museum. Young people can also explore the city’s natural beauty on hikes and mountain biking trips. Aberdeen is also a great place to live.

It boasts affordable housing and a friendly community atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for young people looking for a fun place to call home. Whether you’re exploring the historic city center or enjoying its natural beauty, Aberdeen has something for everyone.

Glasgow is a vibrant and lively city that offers plenty of activities and attractions for young adults. The city has a large arts and culture scene, as well as world-class shopping and restaurants. There are plenty of nightlife options available in Glasgow for young adults, including bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. The city has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Young adults can also enjoy the city’s thriving cultural scene and diverse offerings on their trip.

Glasgow is easily accessible by public transport, making it easy to get around town. The city’s extensive rail network makes it easy to access other major UK cities. Young adults will find plenty to do and see in Glasgow, making it one of the best places to live, work, and play in the UK. Besides all the excitement at hand, young people can also find peace and serenity in Glasgow’s beautiful surroundings.

8. Liverpool

Liverpool is a vibrant city with a diverse range of activities and attractions for young adults. Liverpool has museums, parks, and art galleries that will appeal to any young person’s interests. Young adults can also enjoy Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Liverpool is also a great place to study. The city has numerous universities that offer various courses and programs for students of all ages and interests.

This makes it easy for young adults to find an educational environment that suits their interests and career goals.

9. Brighton and Hove

Brighton and Hove are two of the best places to visit in the UK for young adults. Brighton is known for its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife, while Hove is home to some of the country’s best museums and galleries. There are many things to see and do in Brighton and Hove, so there’s sure to be something that interests you. If you’re looking for a place to party, then Brighton is definitely the place for you! There are plenty of bars, clubs, and pubs that will give you an unforgettable night out.

Alternatively, if you’re more interested in cultural attractions, then Hove is definitely worth a visit. There are plenty of museums and galleries that will offer an interesting perspective on British culture.

10. Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle is a lively and vibrant city with plenty of entertainment options. The city has some of the best nightlife in the UK, with bars and clubs catering to all tastes. The city is also home to several world-class universities, making it the best place to study. Young adults in Newcastle will appreciate the city’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly people. There are plenty of green spaces and gardens to enjoy in Newcastle as well as some spectacular beaches close by. Overall, young adults living in Newcastle will find many reasons to love this city.

To put things into perspective, the best travel ages for a person are 20 to 35 years of age. Young adults can afford to be more adventurous and willing to try new things than older travelers. So, travel when you are young because there is so much that you can experience! As mentioned earlier, the best way to explore the country’s history and heritage is by experiencing it first-hand. The output above offers you some ideas on how to plan your trip to these amazing cities. Feel inspired? Now it’s time to pack your bags and go explore them!

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12 of the best UK holidays for families

From tried-and-tested seaside resorts and holiday parks to sandy beaches, national trust knockouts and shoreline sights, these are the places to take your clan.

I t’s no wonder that the UK is regularly hailed as one of the world’s greatest destinations for family-friendly holidays. The four nations bulge with sandy beaches, seaside resorts, theme parks, great outdoor adventures and more holiday cottages and forest hideaways than you could shake a stick at. And we’re not talking about London, with its studio tours, musicals, museums and Madame Tussauds. Or even glorious Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow and the rest. The real delights to stumble on are in the terrific counties and Celtic shires in between — places that the camera loves: Cornwall and Devon, Yorkshire and Northumberland, Pembrokeshire and Fife. Here’s our guide to the best UK holidays for families.

Main photo: puffins on Skomer Island, Wales (Alamy)

1. The Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland

A giant’s boot, a wishing chair, Finn McCool’s camel: the sights of the Giant’s Causeway are nature’s alternative to Disneyland, loaded with myth and meaning, but without the cost, queues, and stress of the Magic Kingdom. Northern Ireland ’s Unesco-worthy coastline of curious columns is a grand place for a family break, with the County Antrim coast distilling everything that is great about the country. The 120-mile Causeway Coastal Route marries beaches and coves for kayaking with sea safaris for spotting seals, dolphins, and seabird colonies. Then there are Game of Thrones locations aplenty for teens. Just as memorable for parents: a Bushmills whiskey from the source at trip’s end.

Where to stay Roe Park Resort, set in a country park, with family suites, self-catering lodges, and kid-friendly spa and pool.

2. The Lake District, England

Families who love fresh air love the Lake District . Mountains, mirror-topped waters, chugging cruisers, toytown trains, tangled forests, and plenty of up-fell and down-fell places to potter make it a hard job to decide what to do here — so much is terrific. But demand is such that the Lake District receives around 20 million visitors each year, so book ahead for popular places like Windermere, Ambleside, and Grasmere. For those with little ones, Wray Castle and the National Trust’s Yewdale Valley were good enough to inspire Beatrix Potter, so they’ll do for you.

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Where to stay Holbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel has rambling grounds to play hide and seek in, plus all manner of rooms and slick, kid-friendly service.

• Best hotels in the Lake District • Best things to do in the Lake District

3. The Trossachs, Scotland

In the road trip rush north to the Highlands, many families bypass the wooded glens, braes, and lochs of the Trossachs, Scotland’s heavenly gateway to micro-adventures north of Glasgow . More fool them. There are great boat trips on Loch Katrine, Canadian canoes to paddle on Loch Lomond, squirrel hides and monkey ziplines to discover at Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, and dozens of wee hills with big views.

W here to stay Slap in the thick of the most memorable scenery near Balquhidder is Monachyle Mhor, a near-perfect farm turned boutique retreat with terrific restaurant, lochside beach, and donkeys to feed with apples.

• Best hotels in Glasgow • Best Glasgow day trips

4. Cornwall, England

A cottage holiday in Cornwall is more popular than ever these days, at times, driving locals to the point of despair. Travel out of season, though, and England’s southwestern tip takes on a different personality and the contradictions seem starker: the worthy heritage of the coal and tin mining shafts versus the climate inspiring Eden Project; the natural adventure of hiking, biking, and surfing the coast versus the make-believe theme parks of Camel Creek and Flambards. Naturally, the seaside towns are terrific — and then there are all those beaches.

Where to stay Consider Three Mile Beach, a collection of handsome beach shack houses near St Ives.

• Best hotels in Cornwall • Best things to do in Cornwall • Best beaches in England

5. Fife, Scotland

The finest farm-to-fork produce and boat-to-belly seafood in Scotland ? Check. Golden sands, golfing for juniors, and a gorgeous wildlife park, island cruises, and clifftop hiking path? All that too. Fife makes up for its lack of shortbread tin Highland scenery by packing in plenty to do and St Andrews is both indecently pretty and a classic family spot to work magic. For those with babes and toddlers, the bites and sights of the East Neuk villages — namely, Elie, Crail, and Anstruther — are too good to leave for later. Oh, and did we mention the most acclaimed ice cream parlour in the country? You’re having a tablet cone from Jannettas Gelateria.

Where to stay Despite its golf credentials, Hotel Fairmont St Andrews is equally polished for families — cue a monster pool, indoor soft play, and best-in-class restaurant buffet.

• Best things to do in Scotland

6. The Devon and Dorset coasts, England

Kids old enough for Jurassic Park ? Then head to the seaside resort towns of southwest England for a great outdoor adventure trowelling for old bones and fossils. At the heart of the coast, Weymouth has a family-friendly sandy beach and mackerel-fishing trips from the harbour, while fossil-rich Chesil Beach has 17 miles of sand for every mood. Branscombe’s beaches also come up trumps, as do the fossil forests and National Trust dinosaur footprints at Spyway in Dorset .

Where to stay Your base for paleontological pandering is Silverlake, a staycation hotspot on a private estate near Dorchester.

habitatescapes.com/silverlake

• Best hotels in Devon • Best hotels in Dorset

7. The Yorkshire Dales, England

Cheese lovers Wallace and Gromit once helped bring foodies to Wensleydale in their droves, but while their popularity has waned the Yorkshire Dales is still Shaun the Sheep -tastic. Where the hills rollercoaster and farms fade out to the mist-topped hills, your family will find stonewalled lanes to cycle, waterfalls to hike to, and hands-on dairy farms and straw mazes to explore. The likes of Grassington, Hawes, and Aysgarth are perfect for families after a slow-paced break, while there are enough castles and tales for an entire series of Horrible Histories . And don’t forget The Oldest Sweet Shop In The World in Pateley Bridge.

Where to stay Aysgarth Lodge is a bells-and-whistles holiday park, renowned for protecting local habitats and a great hideout for wildlife spotting.

leisureresorts.co.uk/holidays/aysgarth

• Best hotels in Yorkshire

8. The Route Yorkshire Coast, England

Hasn’t everyone done Scotland’s North Coast 500 by now? The latest road trip thriller is the Route Yorkshire Coast, a series of six themed itineraries that dip in and out of the North York Moors National Park and the coastal towns of Bridlington, Filey, Hornsea and Withernsea. While the moorlands and iron age-to-industrial landscapes are prime territory for hiking and mountain bike rides, Whitby is for Dracula tours and Scarborough is the quintessential sandy beach resort. Finally, it’s onwards to blue flag beaches and Spurn Point, Yorkshire’s take on Land’s End.

Where to stay Say “hot tub as standard” and you’ll reply “where’s the booking form?”. That’s one of the perks at Forest Holidays’ self-catering cabins at Keldy, located on the edge of the North York Moors.

forestholidays.co.uk/locations/yorkshire/keldy

9. The Isle of Wight

An English island packed with nearly as much holiday magic as Hawaii? Yes please. The deal is the Isle of Wight — brimming with family-friendly ideas, from Queen Vic’s favourite country home at Osborne to the UK’s oldest theme park, Blackgang Chine. Other crucial sources of entertainment are castles, adventure parks, a model village, steam railway, and a rippling backdrop of dunes and landmark cliffs. The east has the family-centric beaches — consider Shanklin, Sandown or Ryde — and there are beachfront holiday cottages by the bucketload.

Where to stay With lodges, apartments, caravans, and room for campers, Appuldurcombe Gardens Holiday Park also comes with a heated pool, kids play area, mini golf and yoga classes.

appuldurcombegardens.co.uk

10. Pembrokeshire, Wales

Southwest Wales is a hybrid of adventure park and holiday park and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park throws up as many activities (surfing, sailing, foraging and fishing) as scenic views. Celtic myths and legends rear their head at both Carew and Pembroke castles and there are almost a thousand-strong holiday parks dotted along the coast. Marloes Peninsula is for rock pools and tidal beaches, while Broad Haven is for safe swims and seaside resort nostalgia; it’s been in the kiss-me-quick business since the 1800s.

Where to stay Bluestone National Park Resort, a 500-acre swathe with lodges and cottages, bikes, buggies, and — double yes — a bouncy castle and indoor water park.

bluestonewales.com

• Best hotels in Wales

11. Cheshire, England

The moon is a world apart for northwest England, but not at Jodrell Bank, where mind-blowing science and cosmic culture collide to brighten the eyes of wannabe astronauts and star-gazing mums and dads. You’re in Cheshire for all sorts of unexpected family-thrilling wonders, so add places like the Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker, Lion Salt Works, and Ice Cream Farm theme park to your holiday to-do list. For tradition’s sake, there are stately homes, narrowboat rides, and castles (Beeston is rather good), while this is also Lewis Carroll country, with his birthplace museum at Daresbury. “My dear, here we must run as fast as we can, just to stay in place,” Carroll wrote in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland . He might as well have been talking about his home county.

Where to stay Opt for The Hollies’ self-catering forest lodges and log cabins, for the pine setting, farm produce picnic baskets and seedling nursery.

theholliesfarmshop.co.uk

12. Northumberland, England

The old-fashioned Famous Five never did make it to Northumberland. Shame, really, because its landscape of unspoilt beaches is ripe for an adventure and it’s not hard to imagine Enid Blyton writing about the gang sleuthing in seaside towns such as Bamburgh and Seahouses. The big tickets for active families are exploring Alnwick Castle and snorkelling with seals off the Farne Islands and the bits inbetween are best appreciated on a coastal safari hoovering up the beaches as you go.

Where to stay For a holiday rental with a serving of wow — think a leftfield bothy, byre, castle tower, or showman’s wagon — check out the holiday cottages from local specialist Crabtree & Crabtree.

crabtreeandcrabtree.com

• Places in the UK that look just like France

Take me there

Inspired to visit the UK but yet to book your trip? Here are the best hotels from Mr & Mrs Smith and Hotels.com .

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

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Home » Specials » 40 Places in the UK to See with Your Kids Before They Are All Grown Up

40 Places in the UK to See with Your Kids Before They Are All Grown Up

We’ve put together a list of the most fun, the most innovative and the most covertly educational days out in all of the UK.

Many are geared towards testing brains and coordination, and helping kids develop while having fun.

Others, like the UK’s biggest theme parks, are the sort of organised silliness and mayhem that all children need now and again.

There are places so magnificent and awe-inspiring that they might even bring you closer together, and buildings and museums so fascinating that parents won’t help but be engrossed as well.

Here’s our list of the best places to visit with your kids before they are all grown up!:

1. Science Museum

South Kensington, London

Why you’ve got to go: To enlighten inquisitive young minds about the physical world and the people who advanced our understanding. Well deserved one of the best things to do with your kids!

What to do: It could be civil engineering, robotics or vacuum technology: If there’s a certain sphere that your budding young scientist is just getting into, well, the cavernous Science Museum will have whole galleries devoted to it. The movies at the IMAX theatre will only enhance that sense of wonder.

Get there when kids are: All ages

More info: http://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/

2. Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Leavesden, Hertfordshire

Why you’ve got to go: To be enchanted by a trove of items and places from the Harry Potter series.

What to do: For a young Harry Potter fan , what could be more exciting than stepping into the Great Hall or boarding the Hogwarts Express? You can go behind the scenes for secrets about the special effects and animatronics, and browse a decade’s worth of costumes, sets and iconic props.

More info: https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/

3. National Railway Museum

York, North Yorkshire

Why you’ve got to go: There’s a vast hall of engines that will cater to your young ones’ steam train fixation, and then some.

What to do: If steam engines are all the rage with your kids, this attraction will have them riveted. The Great Hall will be a kind of cave of treasures for them, packed to the steel rafters with golden age steam locomotives and a Shinkansen from Japan to hop aboard. You can even see a cross-section of an engine to understand how it works. And it’s all absolutely free to boot.

Get there when kids are: Up to 12

More info: http://www.nrm.org.uk/

4. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Edinburgh, Lothian

Why you’ve got to go: Six floors of puzzles, special effects, games and other interactive craziness at one of Britain’s oldest attractions.

What to do: The whole thing started in 1835 with the Camera Obscura, a live projection of a bird’s eye of Edinburgh from atop a tower. Like mini gods, kids can pretend to pick people up or smoosh them into the ground, if that’s their thing. The five floors below are a fabulous miscellany of optical illusions, light and magic and smoke and mirrors.

Get there when kids are: Primary school age

More info: http://www.camera-obscura.co.uk/

5. Eden Project

St Austell, Cornwall

Why you’ve got to go: To journey into landscaped worlds within futuristic domes and get immersed in botany on the way.

What to do: One of the best bits here is the Canopy Walkway, a raised platform high among the treetops in the rainforest biome. You can identify the various plants and trees, like cashew, rubber, banana and cocoa. For young thrills there’s England’s longest zip line, the SkyWire, and lots of interactive gadgets at the Core Building.

More info: http://www.edenproject.com/

6. Stonehenge

Amesbury, Wiltshire

Why you’ve got to go: One of the UK’s most special locations will seem even more magical through a child’s eyes.

What to do: Kids are trivia sponges, and the facts and figures of this site will blow young minds. It’s amazing to think what was achieved 5,000 years ago with just man and ox-power, ropes and stones. The very sight of this monument will also make a big impression on children and get them pondering an era that is mysterious even for grown-ups.

More info: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stonehenge/

7. Bewilderwood

Hoveton, Norfolk

Why you’ve got to go: For all the energy-burning fun of a soft play park, in 50 acres of whimsical woodland.

What to do: There’s interactive story-telling and puppet shows for toddlers, as well as mazes, zip-lines and rope bridges for bigger kids. Like an Ewok village for children, BeWILDerwood adapts to mature woodland and poses a natural and healthy alternative to indoor play parks. It’s all the brainchild of kids’ author Tom Blofeld and the characters from his books show up to make things even more fun.

More info: http://www.bewilderwood.co.uk/

8. Giant’s Causeway

Bushmills, Antrim

Why you’ve got to go: It’s a UNESCO-listed natural phenomenon, an epic system of basalt columns that look like stepping stones for giants.

What to do: The name alone will spark kids’ active imaginations, but when they see the causeway their sense of awe will be off the charts. You can clamber over the rocks, picking out the weird and wonderful formations, and seeing if they match their old nicknames. Park up at the visitor centre and get to the site via the special shuttle, which has reduced rates for kids.

More info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/giants-causeway

9. Legoland

Windsor, Berkshire

Why you’ve got to go: Because it’s a theme park made with 80 million Lego blocks. You can’t get cooler than that in a kid’s eyes.

What to do: Go on interactive adventures like Coast Guard rescue or the Lego City Driving School where little ones can get their Lego driving licence. Or ride Lego-themed rollercoasters like the Dragon, which swoops over the park’s plastic block rooftops. And shopping of course: The largest Lego store in the UK awaits you at the exit.

Get there when kids are: 10 or under

More info: https://www.legoland.co.uk/

10. Natural History Museum

Why you’ve got to go: To see the dinosaur fossils and eggs to teach kids about the real monsters that once walked the earth.

What to do: All children have a dinosaur phase, right? The moment you step into Hintze Hall and catch sight of the diplodocus you’ll know you’re in a place that can bring them to life, at least in a child’s imagination. Grown-ups can marvel at the museum’s architecture, while brave kids can confront an animatronic T-Rex and feel what it’s like to be in an earthquake.

More info: http://www.nhm.ac.uk/

11. National Space Centre

Leicester, Leicestershire

Why you’ve got to go: There isn’t a child that hasn’t dreamed about space exploration, and this attraction will make the dream a little more real.

What to do: There are six hands-on galleries for kids to get stuck into, as well as immersive shows at the largest planetarium in the UK. The Rocket Tower is 42 metres high and you’ll speed to the top in a glass lift. It’s one of those days out that is informative for adults, but also keeps kids’ attentions with kinetic exhibits and multimedia.

More info: http://spacecentre.co.uk/

12. Tintagel Castle

Tintagel, Cornwall

Why you’ve got to go: For King Arthur, who was born right here according to the famous legend.

What to do: Explore to your heart’s content, at a place where real Dark Age history and folklore collide. Children will have no trouble imagining knights and wizards at this awesome setting, in which the ghostly ruins of castle walls mingle with cliffs and sprawl onto a little rocky island.

More info: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/tintagel-castle/

13. Tower of London

Tower Hamlets, London

Why you’ve got to go: The Beefeaters at the Tower can tell you more about the history of London and England than a week’s worth of school!

What to do: See Traitors’ Gate, where famous Tudor prisoners like Sir Thomas More and Anne Boleyn entered, never to leave with their heads attached to their bodies. Kids will be dazzled by the Crown Jewels, and gripped by the story of the Princes in the Tower, two young heirs to the throne who disappeared right here in the 15th century.

More info: http://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/

14. Imperial War Museum Duxford

Duxford, Cambridgeshire

Why you’ve got to go: It’s all about the aircraft, with more than 200 machines to wow the bigger kids in the family.

What to do: Duxford will indulge that young fascination for high-octane hardware and feats of wartime daring. In the American Air Museum there’s an enormous B-52 Stratofortress filling the entire hall, and suspended above your head are jet and propeller planes from all periods. This is dreamland for kids who love big machines.

Get there when kids are: Around 12

More info: http://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-duxford/

15. Hadrian’s Wall

Hexham, Northumberland

Why you’ve got to go: This was the northern boundary of the whole Roman Empire, a titanic wall between the civilised world and northern tribes.

What to do: Hadrian’s wall is the largest single Roman artefact in the world, and its length was marked with mile-castles and forts every five miles. One, Housesteads Fort, encourages children to dip into the ancient past by clambering over these evocative ruins. In a few minutes you can walk down to Sycamore Gap, a spectacular valley made famous by movies.

More info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hadrians-wall-and-housesteads-fort/

16. Forbidden Corner

Middleham, North Yorkshire

Why you’ve got to go: For a spooky, offbeat and brain-teasing afternoon of discovery.

What to do: Little adventurers are encouraged to explore tunnels, mazes, a creepy mausoleum and hidden passages at a large garden where getting completely lost is all part of the fun. In this large folly you have a checklist of things to track down but there’s not a map to be found. Children will have a whale of a time solving problems, and grown-ups will fall in love with the garden’s wit and imagination.

More info: http://www.theforbiddencorner.co.uk/

17. Zipworld

Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd

Why you’ve got to go: For safe and challenging fun in an extraordinary underground environment.

What to do: A former slate quarry is now a fantasy-like subterranean space where bottomless sheer walls are fitted with zip lines, rope bridges, climbing grips and even a massive bouncy net. This activity centre is fun, awe-inspiring and exhausting all at the same time and includes the first four-person zip line in Europe.

Get there when kids are: Ten and up

More info: https://www.zipworld.co.uk/location/detail/blaenau-ffestiniog/

18. Warwick Castle

Warwickshire

Why you’ve got to go: To see living history at its best, at the most complete medieval castle in the UK.

What to do: Survey the scene from the walls, climb the towers, see the huge siege engines in action, watch birds of prey shows and solve the ‘Horrible Histories’ maze. And for the bravest souls there’s the Dungeon Experience, in which you go back to the plague-ridden 1300s to meet characters such as the judge, torturer and a cook with questionable culinary standards.

More info: https://www.warwick-castle.com/

19. Beamish

Stanley, County Durham

Why you’ve got to go: To drive trams and steam engines, dress up in old-time clothes and meet a cast of characters from the past.

What to do: There’s a breathless variety of activities to take part in, from ploughing fields, to attending Victorian school, baking bread and descending into a coal pit. Beamish puts kids in touch with the rigours of historic rural and city life in the most direct way possible. Just in case they think they have it tough now!

More info: http://www.beamish.org.uk/

20. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Portsmouth, Hampshire

Why you’ve got to go: For the warships and the tales of maritime life from real sailors on a genuine naval base.

What to do: Whippersnappers can board heritage ships like HMS Victory and hear accounts of the swashbuckling battles that were fought on these decks. Aboard HMS Alliance you can peep through the periscope of a real World War II submarine, while the Mary Rose is a real life shipwreck lifted from the depths of the Solent and displayed before your eyes.

More info: http://www.historicdockyard.co.uk/

21. Llangollen Railway

Llangollen, Denbighshire

Why you’ve got to go: For the UK’s ultimate steam train ride, in the romantic landscape of the Dee Valley.

What to do: Steam engines hold a real fascination for many kids, and this 10-mile heritage line is powered by the hulking locomotives built for the Great Western Railway. Little passengers can meet a working Thomas the Tank Engine, while older parents can watch the beautiful North Wales scenery scroll by from the window.

Get there when kids are: Up to ten

More info: http://www.llangollen-railway.co.uk/

22. Alnwick Castle

Northumberland

Why you’ve got to go: So that kids can tell their friends they’ve been to the real Hogwarts.

What to do: Investigate one of the few medieval British castles that has remained habitable to this day. After the outside and inside of the building starred in the Harry Potter films, Alnwick Castle has reached out to younger audiences. Courageous kids can join the Knight’s Quest, dressing up in chivalric gear, visiting a medieval market and venturing into a dragon’s lair.

More info: https://www.alnwickcastle.com/

23. Llandudno

Why you’ve got to go: To treat children to an old-fashioned s day at the seaside.

What to do: Llandudno has way more than the average beach escape. You do have time-honoured favourites like the puppet shows on the promenade, amusements at Llandudno Pier and the vast open sands at West Shore Beach. But the resort is also set off by Great Orme, a monumental limestone headland, primed for visits via the sweet heritage tram and the cable cars that carry you to the top.

Get there when kids are: Up to 14

More info: http://www.visitllandudno.org.uk/

24. Alton Towers

Staffordshire

Why you’ve got to go: For exhilarating white knuckle rides that will meet the approval of even the most jaded teenagers.

What to do: Alton Towers has a menu of gravity-defying rollercoasters pitched at adolescents and young adults. Smiler sends you upside down more than any other ride in the world at present and Thirteen is the first vertical drop rollercoaster on the planet. There are old-school fairground rides, playhouses and activity centres for the youngest family members.

More info: https://www.altontowers.com/

25. Dorset Heavy Horse Centre

Verwood, Dorset

Why you’ve got to go: To meet, groom and bond with rescued working horses.

What to do: There’s never a dull moment for young animal lovers. You’ll meet, care for and get to know the pasts of the giant working horses, which are incredibly gentle despite their size. The centre has won accolades for its hands-on tractor rides, trips on horse-drawn wagons, petting zoo and a range of workshops blurring the line between fun and learning.

More info: http://www.dorset-heavy-horse-centre.co.uk/

26. Jurassic Coast

Devon and Dorset

Why you’ve got to go: For collecting fossils and impressing youngsters with wild coastal scenery .

What to do: If everything seems bigger through a child’s eyes the cliffs and gnarled rocks of the Jurassic Coast will be a craggy wonderland. Scenes like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove will stay with them for the rest of their lives. But there’s an educational element on the Jurassic Coast, as you can pore over beaches like Chamouth for fossils freezing 185 million years of history in stone.

More info: http://jurassiccoast.org/

27. National Media Museum

Bradford, West Yorkshire

Why you’ve got to go: To broaden horizons about the possibilities of the moving image and the Internet.

What to do: There are eight floors of free, hands-on galleries explaining how video games, television and movies work and inspiring you about their potential. You can make your own animations, delve into the history of video gaming and track the latest Internet trends. There are always cool workshops and exhibitions in the school holidays and movies at the IMAX screen.

More info: http://www.nationalmediamuseum.org.uk/

28. Fingal’s Cave

Staffa, Argyll and Bute

Why you’ve got to go: For a marvellous natural wonder that your kids will remember their whole lives.

What to do: Stare astounded at the towering basalt columns that look like they might have been made by an ancient race of giants. If your kids are reading Lovecraft they’ll be wild about this sight, which is the goal of a quest into the Inner Hebrides. On calmer days you can go right inside the cave in your boat, and go ashore to scrabble over the polygonal rocks.

Get there when kids are: 12 and up

More info: http://www.nts.org.uk/Property/Staffa-National-Nature-Reserve

29. Paultons Park

Romsey, Hampshire

Why you’ve got to go: One reason: Peppa Pig World .

What to do: Peppa Pig has taken over toddler society in the last few years, and Paultons Park is where you can feed that obsession . All the rides, play areas and shows have characters from the cartoon. Little nippers can jump in Muddy Puddles, walk the Rainbow Road in Mr Potato’s playground and go on seven gentle rides made for little Peppa Pig fanatics.

Get there when kids are: Five or younger

More info: https://paultonspark.co.uk/

30. Cornish Seal Sanctuary

Gweek, Cornwall

Why you’ve got to go: Because you’re never too young to learn about animal conservation and help injured seal pups.

What to do: It’s nice to be in an animal attraction where nearly all the residents are only there temporarily. The Cornish Seal Sanctuary rescues some 50 injured pups a year and nurses them back to health. Come to watch common seals, grey seals, otters and penguins feeding, and go behind the scenes in the seal hospital to see the great work being done.

More info: http://www.sealsanctuary.co.uk/

31. Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo

Begelly, Pembrokeshire

Why you’ve got to go: Little ones can make friends with farmyard animals, feed giraffes, groom ponies, and a lot more .

What to do: There’s a lot of interactivity at this multi-award-winning farm and zoo attraction. So that means befriending miniature pigs and finding out how to milk cows and goats. There’s a barn for petting goats, rabbits, donkeys and miniature ponies, as well as a zoo with wilder animals like lions, Humboldt penguins and meerkats.

More info: https://www.folly-farm.co.uk/

32. Matlock Bath

Why you’ve got to go: To bring kids to a place of magic, innocence and fun high in the Peak District.

What to do: Potter around this lovely gorge-side town and catch the cable-car to the Heights of Abraham atop Masson Hill. This attraction has been running since the 19th century and conducts you around two enormous show caverns that were mined since Roman times. Gulliver’s Kingdom is a theme park aimed at under 12s and the Victorian amusement halls in Matlock bath can provide hours of traditional fun.

More info: http://www.visitpeakdistrict.com/Matlock-Matlock-Bath/details/?dms=3&venue=6070460

33. Caernarfon Castle

Why you’ve got to go: To scale the labyrinth of spiral stairways and conquer the powerful Eagle Tower.

What to do: Be awed by a castle that was intended to make an impact. Caernarfon has UNESCO status and is a must for any child studying the bloody reign of Edward I, nicknamed Long Shanks by his foes. Even today every monarch’s first son has the Prince of Wales title because of this menacing hulk of stone built in the 13th century.

More info: http://cadw.gov.wales/daysout/caernarfon-castle/?lang=en

34. Windermere

Why you’ve got to go: For the majesty and outdoor fun of the largest lake in England.

What to do: A huge list of family-friendly activities is on offer, from rowing, sailing, swimming and canoeing on the water, to horse riding, climbing, abseiling and walking on the shore. And trips on the old steamers that criss-cross the water are sure to wow the youngest family members. The high fells that slope down to the lakeshore never cease to make your heart soar.

More info: http://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/placestogo/explorewindermere

35. Culloden Battlefield

Inverness, Highland

Why you’ve got to go: This is where the last hand-to-hand battle on British soil was fought, in 1796, a turning point in Scottish history.

What to do: The high-tech new visitor centre is a dream resource for bigger kids keen to know more about the Battle of Culloden. There’s an immersive 360° movie of the battle, an animated battle table and a roof-top viewpoint of the site. The galleries have artefacts and firsthand accounts, and you’ll find out why life in the Highlands and Scottish islands would never be the same again.

More info: http://www.nts.org.uk/Culloden/

36. New Forest National Park

Why you’ve got to go: For the ponies! There are 3,000 wild ponies in the New Forest, going where they please and grazing in woodland glades.

What to do: The New Forest is a safe place for kids to get to know the natural world in person, with gentle country that young legs can handle and piles of kid-friendly attractions: There are bird and reptile centres, deer sanctuaries, tree-climbing adventure parks and activity farms. Be here in summer when the pony foals promise a cuteness overload.

More info: http://www.thenewforest.co.uk/

37. Ironbridge

Why you’ve got to go: At this one location you can trace the very genesis of the industrial Revolution at 10 incredible museums.

What to do: Don a hard-hat and journey underground in the Tar Tunnel, see where nearly all of the country’s tobacco pipes were once made, design your own tiles at the Jackfield Museum, dress up as a old-time potter at the Coalport China Museum. No single place can inform children about the upheaval of the UK in Georgian times like Ironbridge.

More info: http://www.ironbridge.org.uk/

38. White Cliffs of Dover

Why you’ve got to go: To conquer the immense chalk walls that have been England’s front porch for 2,000 years.

What to do: Amble along the gentle grassy trail and look across to France, see the South Foreland Lighthouse where Marconi conducted his radio experiments and put on a hard hat and head torch for a guided tour of the Fan Bay Deep Shelter. Precocious antiquarians can go on a history frenzy as three castles, Dover, Walmer and Deal, flank the cliffs.

Get there when kids are: Aged five and up

More info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-white-cliffs-of-dover/

39. Llancaiach Fawr Manor

Caerphilly, South Wales

Why you’ve got to go: So kids can tell their friends that they’ve braved a real haunted house.

What to do: Young ones can engage with living history, meeting an array of historical characters from the top to the bottom of the social order. These residents are in fact knowledgeable guides who will dish the dirt on this fortified Tudor manor, its role in the English Civil War and all the eerie goings-on that have spooked visitors for centuries.

Get there when kids are: Five and up

More info: http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/llancaiachfawr/

40. World Museum

Liverpool, Merseyside

Why you’ve got to go: There’s a crazy miscellany of things to see, perfect for the shortest attention.

What to do: It’s not called the World Museum for nothing: Kids can be grossed out by Egyptian mummies, marvel at real casts of dinosaur skeletons, see authentic samurai armour and inspect the creepy crawlies at the Bug House. And if that’s not enough they can blast off on their own space odyssey at the planetarium.

More info: http://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/wml/

40 Places in the UK to See with Your Kids Before They Are All Grown Up:

• Science Museum
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour
• National Railway Museum
• Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
• Eden Project
• Bewilderwood
• Giant's Causeway
• Natural History Museum
• National Space Centre
• Tintagel Castle
• Tower of London
• Imperial War Museum Duxford
• Hadrian's Wall
• Forbidden Corner
• Warwick Castle
• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
• Llangollen Railway
• Alnwick Castle
• Alton Towers
• Dorset Heavy Horse Centre
• Jurassic Coast
• National Media Museum
• Fingal's Cave
• Paultons Park
• Cornish Seal Sanctuary
• Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo
• Matlock Bath
• Caernarfon Castle
• Culloden Battlefield
• New Forest National Park
• White Cliffs of Dover
• Llancaiach Fawr Manor
• World Museum

• Responsible Travel
• Competitions
• South Africa
• City Breaks
• Staycations
• Summer Mountains
• Northern Ireland
• Lake District

20 UK attractions to take kids to before they grow up

The UK is blessed with an abundance of amazing days out for families, from educational sessions at museums to wild-and-free days getting muddy in an enchanted woods. Some UK attractions for families are so magical, they deserve to be seen through a child’s eyes. Here are 20 unmissable places to take the kids before they hit those pesky teen years!

20 |  Hobbledown Farm, Epsom, England

Hobbledown calls itself a ‘mysterical adventure’ and it has more than enough for a packed day out with little ones. A huge indoor play barn makes it an ideal venue for rainy days, while farm animals, an aerial adventure course and gigantic jumping pillows are just a small selection of the outdoor activities on offer. If you want to get up close and personal with the animals, meet and greet 17 magnificent birds of prey at the Raptor Centre.

Price: Tickets start from £18 in the morning, £16 in the afternoon

Find out more about Hobbledown Farm

19 |  Eden Project, Cornwall, England

This haven of lush greenery and nature is perfect for a day of digital detox. Walk through the largest indoor rainforest in the world with over 1000 species of plants, enjoy the canopy walkway and even see how rubber is tapped from trees to make wellie boots. For the thrill-seekers, soar above the Eden Project on the zip wire or the high flying giant swing.

Price:  £75 for a family ticket (two adults, two children)

Find out more about the Eden Project

18 |  St Fagans Natural History Museum, Wales

This unique gem in the heart of Wales offers an incredible insight into traditional Welsh life hundreds of years ago. Take a wander through the recreated rural village and try your hand at pottery on the outdoor wheel at Wales’ most popular heritage attraction. Local craftsmen demonstrate their trade around the museum and the grounds of the beautiful Grade I listed castle is the perfect place for a picnic.

Price:  Free entry

Find out more about St Fagans

17 |  Corfe Model Village & Fairy Garden, Dorset, England

Nestled at the base of historic Corfe Castle, the model village gives visitors a to-scale idea of what the fort would have looked like before its ruin. Kids will love the lawn games and enchanted fairy garden, willow shelters and even a tipi. The Dorset apple cake is not to be missed!

Price: £13.50 for a family ticket (two adults, up to three children)

Find out more about Corfe Model Village & Fairy Garden

16 |  Woodlands Park, Devon, England

The largest family theme park in England has everything you need for a fantastic day out. Little ones will love the zoo farm and water slides, while older kids can get their thrills on the theme park rides. Every spring, look out for their Easter Eggstravaganza where there are thousands of chocolatey treats to be discovered.

Price:  From £30 for a family ticket

Find out more about Woodlands Park

15 |  Legoland, Windsor, England

What kid doesn’t love a huge pile of Lego to play with? Take them on the ultimate brick adventure with themed rides, an around-the-world Lego experience featuring iconic buildings from around the globe (complete with marching guards at Buckingham Palace) and an epic splash park for sunny days. If you’re feeling brave enough, you can accept Lord Vampyre’s invitation to the Haunted House Monster Party…

Price:  From £35 per person over 110cm

Find out more about Legoland and family stays

14 |  Knockhatch, Hailsham, England

Knockhatch is a farm, soft play, waterpark and small theme park rolled into one. Visit the owl sanctuary, take part in a hands-on little critters show or ride on the carousel when the weather is fine. Grab some lunch at the cafe before the kids burn off steam at not one but two indoor play centres, while the parents kick back with a coffee.

Price:  From £14.99 (2yrs+)

Find out more about Knockhatch

13 |  Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, Edinburgh, Scotland

Immerse yourself in optical illusions at Edinburgh’s historic Camera Obscura. The museum has been attracting visitors for over 150 years, with its mind-blowing effects, tricks and puzzles. The five floors hold interactive exhibits where your kids will enter an altered visual reality. A great blend of art and history, you and your kids can also learn all about the intriguing history of the camera’s invention.

Price:  £11.25 for children, £14.85 for adults

Find out more about Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Image credit: Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh

12 |  Techniquest, Cardiff, Wales

This science museum is perfectly set up for children to enjoy hands-on experiments all day long. Test your reflexes, try and make a hot air balloon float and get messy with giant bubbles in the light and airy museum. There are Teddy Bears’ Picnic days for toddlers and a Planetarium for budding outer-space buffs.

Price: £28 for a family ticket (two adults, two children)

Find out more about Techniquest

11 |  Hever Castle, Kent, England

The childhood home of Anne Boleyn is a fascinating and fun-filled visit for children and parents. See where Henry VIII slept, explore a miniature medieval village, get lost in the wooden playground or try to avoid the jets in the water maze. If the suns out, hire a rowing boat and take in the beautiful surroundings from the lake. Jousting displays are also on in the summer.

Price:  From £42.75 for a family ticket (two adults, two children or one adult and three children)

Find out more about Hever Castle

10 |  Sea Life Centre, Brighton, England

Located next to the iconic Brighton Pier, the Sea Life Centre is an underwater world of fun and adventure. Walk through a glass tunnel underneath sharks, watch huge sea turtles having their dinner or enjoy an ice cream in the cafe surrounded by tanks of exotic marine life. Pay a little extra for a magical glass-bottomed boat ride with the turtles!

Price: From £12.95 for children, £16.40 for adults

Find out more Sea Life Centre

9 |  Mattel Play Centre, Liverpool, England

This character-themed play centre is 13,000 square feet of wonder. Kids will love playing in the different zones, with Fireman Sam, Bob the Builder and Thomas the Tank themed play equipment in each one. Bring a camera so your little one can have their photo snapped with their favourite character. Maximum age limit: six years.

Price:  £12 for children, £3 for adults

Find out more Mattel Play Centre

8 |  Kidzania, London, England

This is the ultimate playground for the child who wants to be a doctor/chef/ballerina when they grow up. This indoor city is created to scale for children, with job roles for them to try out, including firefighter, photographer and journalist with international sponsors giving the zones an extra sense of reality.

Price:  From £76 for a family ticket (two adults, two children)

Find out more about Kidzania London

7 |  Natural History Museum, London, England

Although Dippy the Diplodocus has been relocated from its iconic position in the great hall, the Natural History Museum is still the place to come for a day of dino fun and historic adventures. See the amazing collection of animals and pick up fun facts about the ancient Egyptians in this English gem. A great educational day out and a chance for children to see that learning is fun!

Find out more about Natural History Museum

6 |  The Science Museum, London, England

If you have a budding Einstein in the family, the Science Museum in London is the perfect place to encourage their interests. Think like a scientist at the Museums Wonderlab, where you can immerse yourself in practical scientific experiments. Explore flight engineering, dive into outer space and even check out the iMax cinema for a fun-filled day of hands-on educational thrills.

Find out more about the Science Museum

5 |  Drusillas Park, Sussex, England

With a ride-on Thomas the Tank Engine and a pink Hello Kitty World, Drusillas is ideal for pre-teens. An extensive zoo will keep kids entertained for ages before they hit the banana boat swings, gigantic outdoor play area, indoor soft-play and rides.

Price:  From £70 for a family ticket

Find out more about Drusillas Park

4 |  Life Centre, Newcastle, England

Discover moments in history immortalised in Lego bricks, enjoy a 4D motion ride, try out some real science experiments and learn all about constellations at this dynamic science centre for under-12s. In the winter months enjoy a slippin’ good time at the Life Centre ice rink.

Price: From £6.50 for a child, £11 for an adult

Find out more about Life Centre Newcastle

3 |  Bewilderwood, Norfolk, England

Hailed as the anti-theme-park, Bewilderwood offers an unplugged experience full of fantasy and adventure. Explore treehouses, zip-wires, rickety bridges and meet some of the mystical creatures who inhabit the woods. Parents are encouraged to find their inner child and get stuck into the adventure too!

Price: From £14.95 for children, £16.95 for adults

Find out more about Bewilderwood

2 |  Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre and Aquarium, Scotland

Located just a 30-minute drive from Glasgow, Loch Lomond Centre offers visitors the chance to see some rare birds of prey in an up-close and personal setting. There are 35 species of birds and plenty of opportunities to meet them and enjoy a hands-on educational experience.

Price: From £4 for children, £8 for adults

Find out more about Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre

1 |  W5 Science & Discovery Centre, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Divided into seven fun-tastic areas of exploration and learning, the W5 Science centre has something for everyone. Whether it’s paddling in a virtual rock pool, scrambling through the Spacebase climbing rocket or racing your own K’Nex car there is a world of discovery awaiting your little ones. There’s even amazing augmented reality technology that transports families to exotic locations to meet incredible (virtual!) animals.

Price: From £7.50 for children, £9.80 for adults

Find out more about W5 Science & Discovery Centre

Here are 11 more magical places to take the kids before they grow up

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In light of international happiness day, discover the uk postcodes where residents are said to have the best quality of life.

If the past few years have taught us anything, it's the importance of loving where you live. But where in the UK has it the sweetest?

Recent data from Rightmove shows that the UK housing market has undergone a spring revival, with a higher demand from buyers resulting in a 1.5% increase in house prices - the highest in eight months.

With the property market set to boom, there seems to be another question on everybody's minds, with global searches of 'how to be happier' reaching an all-time peak in March 2023.

Where we live has a major impact on our overall happiness. Factors such as crime rates, green spaces, economic prosperity and a sense of community contributing to our daily dose of dopamine. 

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From the rolling hills of Mole Valley to the scenic countryside of Ribble Valley, a new study reveals the top 10 towns and cities where Brits are said to have the best quality of life. In light of International Happiness Day , discover where in the UK are the happiest places to live.

1. Ribble Valley

Topping the list is Ribble Valley, with an outstanding happiness score of 78.95 out of 100. 

This charming borough in Lancashire is best known for its picturesque villages, soul-soothing countryside and warm-hearted inhabitants.

The area not only boasts the lowest crime rate, but also has an abundance of green and blue spaces, as well as one of the highest weekly earning rates (£825) and the lowest unemployment rate.

2. Wokingham

Second is Wokingham, a market town and civil parish in Berkshire that boasts a happiness score of 71.94 out of 100. 

Low employment rates and high weekly earning averages of £785.80 make this town a popular spot for families. ​

3. Mole Valley

Hailed for its abundance of areas of outstanding natural beauty, Mole Valley occupies the south-central portion of Surrey and has a happiness score of 71.20 out of 100.

4. West Berkshire

West Berkshire, home to the Princess of Wales' parents Carole and Michael Middleton, has an overall score of 70.16 thanks to its abundance of green spaces. 

It's also where Princess Kate spent most of her childhood, something she has attributed to some of her happiest early memories. 

"Life now is so busy and distracting and sometimes simple things like watching a fire on a really rainy day provides such enjoyment. I remember that from my childhood, the simple things, like going for a walk together, I try to do this with my children," said the Princess. 

"As children, we spent a lot of time outside and it's something I'm really passionate about."

SEE: Kate Middleton's parents £4.7m home is short drive from Cambridges' new Windsor cottage - inside

5. Bracknell Forest

6. South Gloucestershire

The area of South Gloucestershire has been rated the 6th happiest in the UK, with economic prosperity in Yate, Chipping Sodbury, Thornbury, Filton, Patchway and Bradley Stoke contributing to the 2.1% unemployment rate.

7. Guildford

With transport links just 20-30 minutes from London, a stunning high street with historic buildings and beautiful architecture, Guildford has long been considered one of the happiest places to live in the UK. 

The Surrey town is also close to the Surrey Hills; one of the largest green spaces in the UK hailed for its picturesque, tranquil beauty.

8. Waverley

Another town in Surrey, Waverley comes 8th on the list thanks to its low crime rate (43.7 per 1,000 population) and significant blue and green spaces. 

9. Three Rivers

The district is full of innovation, creativity and community work, with an abundance of visitor attractions, festivals, shopping, sport and leisure, culture and history and places to stay. 

While green and blue spaces in Three Rivers are the lowest of the 10 (just 9.6% per 1000 hectares), the weekly average wages here are one of the highest at £862.50.

10. Surrey Heath

The 10th happiest place to live in the UK is Surrey Heath; a beautiful place to live and work which once ranked highest in the Home Counties for wellbeing.

The study, conducted by  GoSmokeFree , analysed factors ranging from crime rates to economic indicators from the ONS and the Catchment Based Approach (CaBA), to provide valuable insights into the regions fostering exceptional quality of life. 

The rates and percentages were transformed into an index to create a score over 100, crowning the happiest local authorities in the country where people are more likely to be stress and anxiety-free.

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These are the best places to live in the UK in 2024

North Berwick in East Lothian, Scotland, is triumphant this year, heading up a list of 72 locations that represent the best of the UK.

Now in its 12th year, the guide celebrates the best places to live in the UK (the crown went to Wadhurst in East Sussex for 2023), with locations to suit everyone, whether you're a renter, first-time buyer, home mover or downsizer.

Essentially, when it comes to choosing a home , certain factors will always appeal: friendly communities, green spaces, good schools, rich history and thriving independent businesses, to name a few. 'With a great range of locations suited for different budgets and family situations, alongside a great mix of both rural and urban locations, this is a great place to start,' says Kim Kinnaird, homes and protection director at Halifax , which are sponsors of the annual guide.

Helen Davies, projects director at The Sunday Times , adds: 'Different people may be looking for different things, but what all our best places have in common is that people love living in them and are proud to call them home.'

Notably, North Berwick is the first Scottish winner in the guide's 12-year history. So why has this seaside town in East Lothian been crowned the best place to live in the UK in 2024?

North Berwick has great shops, a great school and a great outdoors, say the judges. It tops the list of 72 locations for its combination of community spirit as well as its connections to Edinburgh, which is 30 minutes away by train. There are also two beaches and natural beauty is at every corner.

It has a thriving high street of independent shops and it offers the perfect work-life balance too: 'The WFH crowd love to surf at Broad Sands, just to the west, or go paddleboarding in their lunch hour.'

Admittedly, it's an aspirational address – the average house price in North Berwick is £515,500 (cc: Halifax using Land Registry data) – and with a development of new homes to the south, 'young families are more and more able to afford a house, although they still need deep pockets'.

In terms of where to live, a one-bedroom flat on the high street will set you back about £300,000. It increases to £500,000 for a three-bedroom home in a new development.

'Fidra Road is full of beautiful period mansions. A four-bedroom home with land there could cost about £2 million,' writes columnist Gabriella Bennett. 'Westerdunes Park is a little further west into the countryside. You’re more likely to find a modern property here plus green views (and a slightly lower price of about £1 million for the same number of bedrooms).'

The report also details the best places to live across the UK. Here are the top spots:

Best places to live: 10 regional winners

Best place to live in the east of england.

Wivenhoe, Essex: A picturesque riverside town described as having a welcoming community and a strong artistic tradition which stands out from its neighbours.

Best place to live in London

Clerkenwell: With a rich past, Clerkenwell embodies all that's best about life in London with cosy pubs, cool cafés, lively bars and some of the city's best restaurants.

Best place to live in the Midlands

Stirchley, Birmingham : Described as a ‘down-to-earth suburb of Birmingham’, Stirchley has some of the city's best bars, restaurants and cafés.

Best place to live in the north and northeast of England

Leeds : This is the only UK city outside London to have its own opera, ballet and theatre companies. Having established itself as 'the true northern powerhouse and the place to enjoy a good life on a good salary', it's noted for having a great choice of places to live, from semi-rural suburbs to new eco homes.

Best place to live in Northern Ireland

Portstewart, Co Londonderry : Described as 'Northern Ireland's most graceful seaside town', Portstewart makes the list for its local pride that’s always on display, including beach cleans, litter picks and the volunteers behind the annual Red Sails festival.

Best place to live in northwest

Stockport, Greater Manchester : With plenty of development projects underway, Stockport is described as functional and family-friendly, with unbeatable rail connections, parks, sports clubs and good-value houses.

Best place to live in Scotland

West End, Dundee : Described as 'a lively, arty conservation area where you’ll find one of Scotland’s best little high streets', West End is also known for its regular festivals.

Best place to live in the southeast of England

Folkestone, Kent : Aside from the artists' studios, cool shops on the old high street or the chance to sip cocktails on the restored Harbour Arm, Folkestone has impressive schools, state-of-the-art sports facilities and high-speed trains to London.

Best place to live in the southwest of England

Sherborne, Dorset : Known for its busy high street and high-class education, this historic, cultured town also has more than 200 community groups.

Best place to live in Wales

Abergavenny, Monmouthshire : With a thriving community spirit, this is a friendly market town on the edge of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, with a market that has been here since the 13th century.

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Olivia Heath is the Executive Digital Editor at House Beautiful UK , covering tomorrow's biggest interior design trends and revealing the best tips, tricks and hacks to help you decorate your home like a pro. Week by week Olivia shares the most stylish high street buys to help you get the look for less and showcases the best makeovers (who doesn't love a before & after?), as well as the hottest and most unique properties on the market. 

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