The United Kingdom is packed with some of the most picturesque places you could ever imagine. From historic metropolises, the birthplace of The Beatles, Hogwarts-esque architecture, the turquoise coast of Cornwall and the majestic mountains of Snowdonia to the fairytale islands of Scotland, you’ll find the UK a country of unrivalled beauty.
In the most beautiful places in the UK, you’ll enjoy nature’s beauty to the fullest, like snow-topped mountains, ancient forests, and even sandy beaches and rolling hills. Living in these places is like a dream. If you want to refresh your life, travel, or find a nice place for retirement in the future, explore the most beautiful places in the UK that we’ve taken the time to review.
15 Most Beautiful Places in the United Kingdom
Isle of Skye
Isle of Skye is part of the most beautiful places in the United Kingdom because it looks like it came right out of a storybook. There are lots of magical landscapes, including Scotland’s Inner Hebrides. You’ll see rugged mountains, misty hills, deep lochs, and dramatic cliffs that stretch for miles. If you’re a photographer, you stand to marvel at some of the town’s famous sights like the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and the Cuillin ridge.
Even the island’s little capital, called Portree, is such a colorful fishing village that sits on a sheltered bay. You’ve got everything you need for a simple living, like cozy pubs, local shops, friendly cafes, and even restaurants that serve fresh seafood. On the other hand, if you fancy smaller villages, you can go to places like Dunvegan, Edinbane, Staffin, Broadford, Armadale, and Elgol. Aside from the beauty of the place, it embodies a slower way of living. Overall, the Isle of Skye moves at a gentle pace, and that’s why many people love the town. Getting a home in this city will take you far away from the noise and rush of city life.
The Lake District
The Lake District isn’t just one of Britain’s most beautiful places, it’s a dream if you love lakes, mountains, and endless green views. Go to a village like Grasmere if you’re a people person. The famous poet William Wordsworth lived there at some point.
Then, places like Coniston Water and Lake Windermere are great for water lovers. Although Coniston is quieter and you can have peaceful evening walks and enjoy village life. Windermere, on the other hand, is better and livelier. You should go there if you’re into sailing or watersports. For something much more magical, there’s Rydal Caves. It’s just a short walk from the road and has mirror-like pools that look straight out of a fantasy film. In fact, Netflix’s The Witcher had some of the scenes filmed there.
Northumberland
Northumberland is such a wild, peaceful, and pretty place to visit in the UK if you like quiet countryside, artistic coastlines, and untouched beauty. People call the city “England’s last great wilderness,” and that’s because it’s home to England’s least populated national park.
The castles populating the city are also another wonder to behold. Talk about the Farne Islands and how it’s a wildlife haven with puffins, seals, and even dolphins.
Then there’s also the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, which feels like stepping into a storybook with wide beaches, dunes, and a peaceful nature reserve.
Portmeirion
Portmeirion rivals the most picturesque places in England, and you should come here if you’re on a romantic getaway with your lover. Architect Sir Clough William-Ellis designed this place to feel like a Mediterranean village. It’s so colourful, and has a rich Italian charm with pastel buildings, lush gardens, and stunning sea views. You and your lover will love the romantic vibe here. Just make sure to try the Italian-style piazza before leaving.
Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol
Clifton Suspension Bridge of Bristol is one of the most scenic places in the UK. Even though it has been open since 1864, the place is still impressive to date and gives you a breathtaking view of Bristol and the surrounding countryside. Isambard Kingdom Brunel took his time to design this historic bridge, such that it stretches across the dramatic Avon Gorge. It stands 75 meters above the River Avon, and on a clear day, you might spot a hot air balloon drifting by.
Central Oxford
Central Oxford is a place filled with honey-coloured stone buildings, medieval alleys and grand spires and can easily pass as one of the most pretty places to visit UK. Interestingly, it stretches between Broad Street and the High Street, all packed with amazing architecture, including bookshops, ancient pubs, and even iconic towers of the University of Oxford. If you’re visiting this place, don’t worry about joining a college tour or having a tour guide. You’ll find it a breeze to get around the place if you are a student living right in the University of Oxford accommodation. Merely strolling through the centre is enough is soak in the charm and beauty of one of Britain’s most scenic university towns.
Barbican Estate, London
Barbican Estate stands proudly as one of the most unconventional yet beautiful UK destinations to live and visit . Although staying in the central London accommodation, you’ll notice bold, concrete curves and quiet, labyrinth-like walkways that ultimately offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s usual chaos. Being here is like stepping into the Cold War era. The vibe is hard to deny, even as some people consider it grey and austere. Overall, this place houses one of London’s top arts venues as it has everything from plush auditoriums, stylish bars, and a lush indoor conservatory.
Cornwall
It’s easy to see why Cornwall is one of the prettiest places in the UK to live. Talk about the turquoise waters, golden beaches, and dramatic cliffs, this town definitely feels more like the Mediterranean than the southwest of England. Even people come to the place for holidays. That’s how amazing the town is, especially with its wild open spaces, quiet beaches, and rugged moors. Although if you desire a more village vibe, you can go further into towns like St Ives and Penzance. Do you dream of owning a restaurant? Then, villages like Padstow are a good place to settle.
Finally, don’t you ever miss the Minack Theatre. It is carved into the cliffs above the sea, and you can catch it on an open-air stage with views so stunning you might even forget there’s a show ongoing.
Avebury Stone Circle, Wiltshire
If you’re looking for a place to give you mystical countryside vibes, Avebury ticks the box. Here, you’ll see towering stones scattered across a green field, ribbons fluttering from trees, and sheep calmly grazing beside ancient monuments. Do you know the most interesting part? It is the largest Neolithic stone circle in the world. So, it’s no wonder Avebury Stone Circle stands proudly among the most beautiful places in the UK. Unlike its more famous cousin, Stonehenge, you’re free to wander among the stones here, touch them, and even give them a friendly hug. Finally, having the circle surround an actual village is the height of the surreal charm of the place.
Pembrokeshire
When it comes to Britain’s most beautiful places, it’s hard to look past Pembrokeshire in Southwest Wales. First, this city houses a 190-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which is one of the most scenic hikes in the UK. Now, along the trail, you’ll see picturesque beaches like Barafundle Bay, Whitesands, and Broad Haven, where you can walk, swim, and simply relax if you want to.
As a history fan, you’ll love St David’s county of Pembrokeshire. It’s the UK’s smallest city and has a grand cathedral with deep Celtic roots. Ramsey Island, on the other hand, is known for its rugged cliffs and seabird colonies. You should go there if you’re craving some peace.
Puzzlewood, Forest of Dean
If you’re looking for nice locations in UK that feel like stepping into a fantasy film, you should come here. Looking at the winding trails, mossy rocks, twisted roots, hidden caves, and tiny wooden bridges, it’s easy to see why this 14-acre ancient woodland is said to have inspired Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Interestingly, the forest’s unique terrain was shaped by underground caves that eroded over millions of years and eventually became one of the favorite filming spots for blockbusters like Harry Potter and Star Wars.
Medieval Shambles, York
Medieval Shambles is considered one of the most beautiful parts of England. Coming here is like stepping into a real-life fairytale street. Timber-framed buildings are leaning precariously overhead, cobbled streets, and charming shopfronts. It’s so unbelievable that this picturesque street once served as an open-air slaughterhouse in the 1300s. As you’d notice from the name, “Shambles” comes from the medieval word for a butcher. It’s refreshing to know the gore is long gone, and now, what remains is one of the UK’s best preserved medieval streets.
Seven Sisters, Sussex
Seven Sisters is quite an interesting name for a jaw-dropping location. It has earned its place among the nicest places in the UK, thanks to the striking white cliffs rising and falling along the coastline between Seaford and Birling Gap. This creates the most dramatic and unspoiled shorelines in southern England.
Additionally, Seven Sisters offers a peaceful escape into nature. When you visit in summer, you might spot some of the 20 butterfly species that call this landscape home.
County Antrim, Northern Ireland
If you’re looking for one of the most spectacular places in the UK to live, give County Antrim in Northern Ireland a try. The city feels like a landscape lifted straight from a fantasy novel. In fact, it’s a dream for hikers and adventurers because they’d get to walk the wild Gobbins Cliff Path, where sea caves and steep stairways hug the rock face. Additionally, the iconic Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge swinging 100 feet above the crashing Atlantic is there to test your courage. And if you’re a huge fan of Game of Thrones, you’ll likely recognize the eerie Cushendun Caves and the haunting Dark Hedges.
Whitstable Seafront, Kent
Whitstable Seafront is hands down one of the most amazing places in the UK to unwind during a work leave or holiday, especially if you’re a sunset lover. You’ll notice this magic when you sit on the beachside, watching the tide pull back and the sky glows in brilliant shades of pink and orange. In that moment, the world seems to pause. Plus, the reflections in the shallow pools make it feel like the horizon has melted into art. Honestly, this view never gets old, no matter how many times you see it. It’s an everyday magic!
Top 10 Prettiest Places in the UK at Affordable Prices
Some places in the UK are a perfect mix of beauty and budget. Best still, it doesn’t matter if you’re planning to study abroad, relocate for university, or are curious about exploring more beautiful places. uhomes.com helps secure affordable, quality housing, especially for students in top university cities. There are loads of verified student accommodations in the UK, including cozy budget rooms and stylish luxury flats. Take a look at these postcard-perfect views with rich culture and a friendly cost of living:
| Location | County | Average Rent per Person | Average House Price | House Price Difference (UK) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isle of Bute | Buteshire | £552/month | £115,574 | -£169,376 |
| Boddam | Aberdeenshire | £300/month | £134,433 | -£150,517 |
| Stornoway, Isle of Lewis | Ross-shire | £600/month | £146,805 | -£138,145 |
| Portmeirion | Gwynedd | £183/week | £195,234 | -£89,716 |
| Western Isles | Inverness-shire | £692/month | £190,097 | -£94,853 |
| Durham | Durham | £800/month | £189,845 | -£95,105 |
| Teesside | Teesside | £468/month | £177,009 | -£107,941 |
| Warsop | Nottinghamshire | £821/month | £181,556 | -£103,394 |
| Ribble Valley | Lancashire | £766/month | £182,693 | -£102,257 |
| Holyhead | Anglesey | £750/month | £189,170 | -£95,780 |
Conclusion
As you can see, there are lots of most beautiful places in the UK you can visit and live in. It all depends on what you’re looking for: whether coastlines, serene lakes, charming villages, or ancient woodlands, you’ll get whatever you want. If you’re finding it difficult to make a choice, don’t worry, it’s understandable. These places are super stunning, but one thing is for sure: wherever you end up, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty to the fullest.
Over to you, are you packing up to move or planning your next trip? While exploring the nicest places in the UK. You might need a perfect place to live to call home or your next favorite escape. uhomes.com is always your final solution, giving not only quality and self-contained accommodation in the UK, but also comprehensive guidance on your living and travelling.
FAQ on the Most Beautiful Places in UK
What is the most beautiful town in the UK?
Castle Combe in the Cotswolds is considered the most beautiful town in the UK because of its charming stone cottages and timeless streets. Lewes in East Sussex is also another cool spot.
Where is a place like Bali in the UK?
To get Bali vibes in the UK, try Henrhyd Falls in South Wales. There are lush waterfall views, while Croyde Bay and Devon offer you stunning beaches and turquoise waters.
What is the most beautiful neighbourhood in the UK?
Bibury in the Cotswolds is considered the most beautiful village in the UK because of its charming stone cottages. Grasmere and Ambleside in the Lake District are also charming.
Where is the prettiest place to live in England?
Some of the prettiest places to live in England are the Cotswolds, the Lake District, and Devon. Others include Northumberland, North Yorkshire, and the South Downs. All of them are known for their natural beauty.
Where is the nicest village to live in the UK?
Redbourn in Hertfordshire is the nicest village to live in the UK. The reason for this is the charm, strong community, and easy access to London. Other top choices include Ightham, Elie, Harpsden, and Studland.
What is the most posh area in the UK?
London is the poshest area in the UK, especially places like Mayfair, Belgravia, Kensington, and Chelsea. You’ll find luxury homes here, high-end shops, and wealthy residents. But outside of London, places like Surrey, Oxford, and Manchester are also considered posh.
