Don’t get us wrong – London is undeniably one of the most iconic cities in the world. With so much history, culture and sheer excitement to be found on each and every street corner – it is little wonder that it is a city break favorite. However, all around the UK there are fantastic cities that tend to get overlooked when the time comes to choose somewhere for their last minute city breaks, today we outline some of the best. (Photo "Parliament London" by guigo-eu) Brighton
Arguably the coolest British city outside of London, Brighton, on England’s south-east coast, is the perfect weekend destination and one that has it all. Visitors can enjoy all the tacky brilliance of this traditional seaside resort with strolls along the pier and rides upon the Ghost Train before heading to the Laines for some of the best shopping outside of the capital. In addition, Brighton has some fantastic and rather hedonistic nightlife. No wonder Fat Boy Slim, Amon Tobin and hundreds of other DJs and musicians chose to make it home. (Photo "The Pavilion" by f_samora)
Bristol
This south-west city has something for everyone looking for a fun and interesting city break. Located on a network of canals, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon stroll after you have tired yourself out in the shops, and there are some fantastic and unusual pubs and coffee shops to refresh yourself in when you need to refuel. There are great museums, an good aquarium, and the beautiful countryside is just short drive away - as is the historic spa town of Bath.
Cardiff
If you are a fan of rugby and can book yourself a city break to Cardiff when there is a game on, you will be hard pressed to find a city more vibrant than here. Home to the Millennium Stadium, the whole city comes alive with enthusiastic fans, making it a hugely fun experience. When the rugby isn’t on, the city center is home to a good range of shops, restaurants, bars and even a castle to explore! Cardiff Bay offers some culture in beautiful surroundings. (Photo "Cardiff Bay" by rhysgregor)
Manchester
If you are a child of the ‘Madchester’ generation of music then a weekend getaway to this city in the north will be right up your street. Retrace the footsteps of your music idols; marvel at the city’s ground-breaking architecture and of course – there is world class shopping and some rather raucous nightlife to be enjoyed. Art lovers should pay a trip to the Lowry Centre or Manchester Art Gallery.
Cambridge
If you are after a weekend away somewhere truly English then you should look no further than this charming University town. While away an afternoon punting along the River Cam and then feast upon pub fare in one of the olde-worlde pubs that were once the drinking holes of some of Britain’s most prolific academics, from Charles Darwin to John Milton and David Attenborough. (Photo "Cambridge" by sicx)
