Last Updated on 7th May 2024
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Are you looking for the best bucket list ideas in the UK? You’ve come to the right place! This ultimate guide contains over 100 of the best and extreme bucket list ideas UK!
The UK may only be a relatively small nation, but it’s a place that packs a punch when it comes to bucket list-worthy destinations and attractions.
Home to the world-famous capital city of London, the ancient Roman Baths, prestigious universities such as Oxford and Cambridge and the stunning cities of York, Edinburgh, Belfast, Brighton, Cardiff and more; the UK has so many fun experiences and attractions to offer.
It wasn’t until we bought and self-converted our own campervan to travel around the UK, that I realised just how many wonderful gems there are in our tiny island nation. Having travelled to almost 50 countries at the time of writing this post, I’ve always wanted to get away from the UK and travel to far-off destinations, but staying at home during the pandemic showed me just how stunning my home country is.
If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next staycation or you want to tick off some items on the ultimate UK bucket list, I’ve got just the post for you!
1. York – ultimate UK bucket list ideas

The stunning northern city of York has been my home since I was eight years old and apart from a stint of living in New Zealand and then travelling for the most part of the last four years, it’s still a city that has a very special place in my heart.
It’s a relatively small UK city, but it has so much to offer and it’s a place that I recommend to everyone for their England bucket list.
Read more: 20 Best Hotels & Hostels In York
2. York Minster
The York Minster is one of the most famous cathedrals in the UK and it’s also one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe.
At almost 1,400 years old, not only is it one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture in the country, but it also has so much history behind it.
Read more: 17 Best Views Of The York Minster
3. City Walls
The York City Walls date back more than 900 years and they have been used as a fortification method against many invaders over the years.
Comprising just over 2 miles, the City Walls are completely free to walk around and they offer excellent views of various parts of the city.
4. The Shambles
The Shambles in York is one of the most famous alleyways in the country and it’s considered to be one of the main inspirations behind Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter series.
As it’s one of the most popular hotspots in York, you can expect The Shambles to nearly always be teeming with tourists, but they’re so beautiful and quirky that they should definitely be on your UK bucket list.
5. Museum Gardens
Before we went travelling for the first time in 2019, Matt and I lived in a studio apartment just a couple of hundred metres from the Museum Gardens and I used to walk through them every single day to get to the city centre.
The Museum Gardens also house the Yorkshire Museum and the ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey and it’s one of the best places in York for a picnic or just a casual stroll through to get away from the hecticness of the city.
6. Jorvik Viking Centre – unique bucket list ideas UK
Depicting what life was once like when the Vikings ruled the city of York, the Jorvik Viking Centre is another must-see attraction that should be on your UK bucket list.
It’s a fun, immersive experience for the whole family and it’s a perfect rainy-day activity to enjoy in York.
7. Betty’s Tearooms
Betty’s Tearooms is a British institution and while there are a few branches in the UK (including one in the nearby town of Harrogate), the York branch of Betty’s will always be number one in my opinion.
Whether you’re an afternoon tea aficionado or just a coffee and cake fiend, Betty’s is a great place to eat in York.
Read more: Betty’s Tearooms York Review
8. The York Dungeon
The York Dungeon is another fun and interactive tourist attraction that depicts the turbulent history of York’s dark past. With live actors and performers, it’s a spooky but super fun experience.
9. Castle Howard – simple bucket list ideas UK
Located on the outskirts of York, Castle Howard is one of the most beautiful stately homes in Yorkshire and it’s a great place to visit at any time of the year.
In the summer, it makes for an excellent visit to wander through its magnificent grounds and in the winter, it plays host to some of the most beautiful Christmas decorations and festivities.
10. National Railway Museum
An attraction that’s ideal for people of all ages, the National Railway Museum should be on everyone’s UK bucket list when they’re visiting York.
It’s completely free to visit, so you can spend as little or as long as you want to check out the trains and learn about the history of rail travel.
Read more: 25+ Best Things To Do In York, England
11. Bucket list in London

I could write an entire post dedicated to a London bucket list, but in the interest of keeping this post as concise as possible, I’ve included just a few of the best bucket-list-worthy things to do in London below.
12. Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is one of the most prestigious royal residences in the world and one of London’s most famous and important tourist attractions.
It’s possible to go inside the palace and tour the State Rooms where you can see world-famous paintings, furniture and more.
13. Big Ben
Big Ben is one of the most iconic landmarks in London and it’s finally back to its glorious self after undergoing several years of restoration work.
Hearing the chimes of the bell of Big Ben is certainly one of the best experiences in the UK.
14. The London Eye
Riding the London Eye is an awesome addition to your UK bucket list as it enables you to enjoy an incredible vantage point of the city from above.
It’s best to book tickets in advance to ride the London Eye as the queues can often be several hours long.
15. Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is another one of the most iconic attractions in London that cannot be missed on your UK trip.
At almost 140 years old, Tower Bridge might not be the oldest landmark in London, but it is one of the most important and prominent features of the city skyline.
16. Camden
Camden Town is famous for its market and eclectic neighbourhood. Full of vintage clothes shops and quirky clubs and jazz bars, Camden is a place that cannot be missed.
17. Borough Market
If you’re looking for some of the best fresh produce in the city, make sure to add Borough Market to your London bucket list.
Renowned for having a market on its site since the 12th century, Borough Market is home to more than 100 different food and artisanal stalls.
18. Natural History Museum – fun bucket list ideas UK
London has more than 100 museums and the National History Museum is one of the most fun things to do in the United Kingdom. Full of amazing exhibits, galleries and displays, the National History Museum is one of the best things to do in London for the whole family.
19. St Paul’s Cathedral
One of the most famous religious buildings in the whole of the UK, St Paul’s Cathedral is a must-see when visiting London.
Dating back to the 1600s and residing at the highest point of the City of London, St Paul’s is remarkably beautiful and incredibly poignant, regardless of whether you’re a religious believer or not.
20. Afternoon tea at The Savoy
Having afternoon tea is a British bucket list must-do and while there are dozens of places to enjoy afternoon tea all over London, The Savoy is an iconic institution for all things tea, cakes and scones.
Read more: 5 Best Day Trips From London
21. Stonehenge – ultimate UK bucket list ideas
Stonehenge is one of the most important and famous historic sites in the UK. Its origins are shrouded in mystery and it’s renowned for being a mythical and fantastical site with several different claims about how it came to be.
Whether you believe the mysteries surrounding it or you prefer to stick to the archaeological facts, Stonehenge is a bucket list attraction that cannot be missed.
22. Castle Combe

Castle Combe is often cited as the prettiest village in the UK and while it might be small with very few things to do there, as soon as you see the quaint village pubs, thatched cottages and sweet little roads, it’s clear to see why it’s so beloved by tourists from near and far.
Read more: The Best Things To Do In Castle Combe Village, Cotswolds
23. Bath – UK bucket list ideas
Just a short drive through the Cotswolds from Castle Combe, you’ll find the historic city of Bath.
Renowned for its Roman Baths, the Abbey and Pulteney Bridge, Bath is an incredibly pretty UK city with plenty of history to uncover.
24. The Lake District

I could easily write an entire bucket list post dedicated to the Lake District as there are so many wonderful things to see and do throughout the national park.
Instead of writing an entire Lake District bucket list (though, you can find my 3-day Lake District road trip guide here!), I’ve compiled a few ideas in the Lake District below.
25. Lake Windermere
Lake Windermere has always been one of my favourite places in the Lake District and along with Bowness-on-Windermere, it’s the place that I always recommend to people when they’re looking to visit the Lakes for the first time.
There are so many lovely activities to enjoy around Lake Windermere, including many hikes, boat rentals and adorable coffee shops that make for the perfect afternoon treat.
26. Hawkshead
Hawkshead is another one of my favourite places in the Lake District as it’s the cutest little village full of plenty of homely pubs and chocolate shops.
It’s a great place to visit if you’re on a road trip through the Lake District as you don’t need to spend too much time there, but it’s great for a quick visit.
27. Tarn Hows
If you’re looking for a lovely, easy walk in the Lake District (of which there is an abundance), Tarn Hows is a fantastic place to add to your itinerary. One of the main walks includes a stroll around a giant lake which can be enjoyed most of the year, but it’s arguably best enjoyed in the summer when the weather is pleasant.
28. Grasmere Gingerbread
Grasmere Gingerbread is an institution in the Lake District and fans of the sweet treats will enjoy a visit to this tiny shop.
Queues can often be long but it’s worth the wait!
29. Ashness Bridge/Surprise View
Ashness Bridge and Surprise View aren’t the most accessible places to visit in the Lake District, but if you can navigate your way through the winding roads to reach the top of the hill to Surprise View, you’ll be treated to one of the most astonishing views in the Lake District National Park.
30. Ullswater
Similarly to Lake Windermere, Ullswater is a great place to have on your UK bucket list if you’re a fan of all kinds of watersports.
You can hire paddle boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and more to cruise around this vast area of water.
31. Kirkstone Pass
Kirkstone Pass is one of the most scenic drives in the Lake District and while its narrow winding roads can prove to be a little tricky for some drivers, the views and scenery that you enjoy along the way make it worth the hassle of driving.
Read more: The Ultimate 3-Day Lake District Road Trip Itinerary
32. NC500 route – UK bucket list ideas

If you’re looking to add another epic road trip route to your UK bucket list, look no further than the NC500 route in Scotland.
The North Coast 500 is a 500-mile route around the very northern tip of Scotland and technically runs in a sort of circular route to and from Inverness. There are numerous variations and differing routes you can take from the NC500, so even if you only do a small part of it, it will be worth it for the epic Scottish Highlands scenery!
Read more: Scotland NC500 5 Day Itinerary & Road Trip Route
33. Glenfinnan Viaduct – UK bucket list ideas
Harry Potter fans will rejoice to know that there are numerous filming locations featured throughout this list of the top UK attractions that you can easily visit, many of which are free.
Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland is one of the most famous filming locations from the Harry Potter film franchise as it was used as the background in numerous scenes when the cast were travelling on the Hogwarts Express. You can enjoy various vantage points of the Glenfinnan Viaduct from numerous places, check out my Scotland road trip blog post for more information.
34. Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is home to many Scotland bucket list locations, including the infamous Fairy Pools, The Old Man of Storr, Armadale Castle and more.
If you get the chance to visit the Isle of Skye, I’d highly recommend doing so as it’s such a beautiful part of the UK.
35. Loch Ness
Loch Ness is one of the most famous places in Scotland, if not the whole of the UK, thanks to its enigmatic tales about the Loch Ness Monster.
While you’re probably unlikely to see any such beast while you’re in the area, it’s still a fun and beautiful place to visit, especially if you embark on one of the many tours of the loch from the water itself.
36. Edinburgh – bucket list ideas UK

Edinburgh is one of the most famous cities in the UK and for good reason; it’s absolutely beautiful!
There’s so much history and culture to be discovered and I’ve included a few of the top bucket list things to do in Edinburgh below.
37. Edinburgh Castle
Of course, Edinburgh Castle is arguably the most well-known thing to see in the city and this prestigious landmark that originally dates back to the 11th century was once the home to many kings and queens.
You can take a tour of Edinburgh Castle to see it in all its magnificent glory and if you’re visiting Edinburgh in the busy summer months, it’s usually best to purchase skip-the-lines tickets so you don’t have to wait too long to go inside.
38. Dean Village
Dean Village is one of the most picturesque villages in the UK.
There’s not a tonne of things to do there, but it’s super pretty and it makes for a lovely change of scenery away from the busyness of the city centre.
39. Scotch Whisky Experience
There are so many whisky distillery experiences in Scotland and one of the very best resides in Edinburgh, which is the Scotch Whisky Experience.
Even if you’re not the biggest fan of whisky, it’s still worth visiting a local distillery while in Scotland as you’ll learn so much about the production and distribution of this world-renowned spirit.
40. Princes Street Gardens – summer bucket list ideas UK
Princes Street Gardens are an awesome place to hang out all year round in Edinburgh. In the winter, they play host to Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets and in the summer, they make for a wonderful place to enjoy a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
41. The Royal Mile
Situated in the heart of the city’s Old Town, the Royal Mile runs from Edinburgh Castle at one end to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other.
The Royal Mile is named as such as it was a traditional processional route for kings and queens. Today, you’ll find plenty of pubs, cafes and restaurants lining the road, but it’s still steeped in plenty of history, too.
42. Mary’s King Close
The Real Mary King’s Close is situated just off the Royal Mile and it’s famed for being one of the most haunted places in Britain.
Underneath the streets of Edinburgh as we know them today, there are a series of “hidden” streets and alleyways known as “closes”. You can take a guided tour of Mary’s King Close to learn all about its rich and spooky history!
Read more: 26+ Top Things To Do In Edinburgh For A Magical Visit
43. Titanic Museum – UK bucket list ideas
Heading over the Irish Sea, you’ll get to experience your first UK bucket list experience in Belfast; the Titanic Belfast Museum.
The museum is located on the site where the infamous ship was originally built and it depicts the tale of how the Titanic was created, as well as the story of its untimely demise. It’s a fascinating place to visit, particularly for fans of maritime history.
44. Giant’s Causeway
Giant’s Causeway is synonymous with being one of the best attractions in Northern Ireland and outdoor enthusiasts will certainly want to have this remarkable feat of nature on their bucket lists.
44. The Dark Hedges – bucket list things to do in the UK
Game of Thrones fans will rejoice at this particular experience as The Dark Hedges in Northern Ireland are famed for being a filming location in the hit TV series.
Even if you’re not a GOT fan, it’s still worth visiting The Dark Hedges as these beautifully lined beech trees are a true sight to see.
45. White Cliffs of Dover – bucket list things to do in UK

Heading back over to England now and to the south coast in particular, the White Cliffs of Dover are one of the most prominent landmarks in England.
They’re arguably best viewed from the Strait of Dover as you sail towards France, but you can also enjoy many walks along the top of the cliffs for an excellent vantage point.
Read more: An Ultimate Guide To The White Cliffs Of Dover
46. Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and it’s seen more than 1,000 years of British royal history, making it a true symbol of the Royal Family in the UK.
You can take a tour of the inside of the castle as well as its bountiful grounds, to learn all about its vibrant history and to see its many grand staterooms.
47. Warner Bros Studio Tour – UK bucket list ideas

No trip to the UK would be complete without a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, especially if you’re a huge fan of Harry Potter.
Go behind the scenes of one of the most famous and beloved movie franchises of all time as you discover the sets, props, costumes and more of the Harry Potter films. It’s one of the best tours in the country and it’s undoubtedly an experience you need on your UK bucket list.
Read more: Harry Potter Studio Tour London – Is It Worth It?
48. Cambridge
Along with Oxford, Cambridge is synonymous with being a university city. It’s particularly famous for the King’s College Chapel and for its punting experiences along the River Cam. You can take a guided punting tour to learn all about the history of Cambridge and to see some of its most notable sights from the water.
49. Seven Sisters Cliffs – UK bucket list ideas
The Seven Sisters are a collection of white chalk cliffs along the south coast of England that are both beautiful to look at and also to enjoy remarkable views out to the English Channel from their enormous clifftops.
50. Jurassic Coast – UK summer bucket list

The Jurassic Coast is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK in the summer months and after our road trip along the coast a couple of years ago, I finally understood the hype surrounding the infamous Durdle Door, Old Harry Rocks and more.
51. Durdle Door
Durdle Door is an incredibly famous natural landmark in the south of England and it’s also one of the best bucket list things to do in the UK. After seeing so much hype surrounding this quirky landmark, I was a bit apprehensive as to whether it would live up to my expectations, but I was delighted to discover that it actually exceeded my expectations and then some!
52. Lulworth Cove
Lulworth Cove is another one of the most beautiful spots on the Jurassic Coast that can be discovered by a relatively strenuous walk over a hill from Durdle Door (you can also park in the car park at Lulworth Cove, but it’s fun to visit both by walking!).
53. Old Harry Rocks
These three rock formations known as Old Harry Rocks mark the most easterly point of the Jurassic Coast and are yet another remarkable natural formation created by the rugged south coast.
Read more: The Best Things To Do In The Jurassic Coast Dorset
54. Glastonbury Festival
Attending a festival is something that many people have on their life bucket lists, but attending Glastonbury Festival is arguably the most popular bucket list thing to do in the UK for many people.
This eccentric festival usually lasts for five days and hosts some of the world’s most famous superstars, with headliners in the past including The Killers, Adele, Beyoncé, Jay Z, Paul McCartney and more!
55. Oxford – UK bucket list ideas
Known as Cambridge’s university counterpart, Oxford is famed for being one of the most prestigious university cities in the UK, if not the whole world.
It’s also another place where Harry Potter fans can see some of the most iconic filming locations from the films, particularly at Christ Church College Hall and the Cloisters as several scenes were filmed in these beautiful locations.
56. Portmeirion Village

Portmeirion Village in Gwynedd, North Wales is a truly unique bucket list destination in the UK as it resembles a beautiful Italian village, complete with lush gardens, lovely coffee shops and stunning views.
You can visit Portmeirion just for the day or you can make it into a little getaway for a few days as there are numerous places to stay within the village.
Read more: Portmeirion Village Wales – The Ultimate Guide, Tickets, Hotel & More
57. Gower Peninsula – bucket list things to do in the UK
The Gower Peninsula is one of the most beautiful parts of Wales and it was actually the first place in the UK to be designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Once you see its many beaches and villages, it’s easy to see why this is one of the top bucket list places in the UK.
58. Snowdonia National Park
Home to one of the tallest mountains in the UK, and the tallest mountain in Wales (Snowdon), Snowdonia National Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.
There are so many hiking opportunities to enjoy throughout the national park and it also makes for a brilliant road trip through its winding mountainous roads.
59. Cardiff Castle – UK travel bucket list
Cardiff city itself is worth adding to your Wales bucket list, but it’s Cardiff Castle in particular that I wanted to mention as it’s one of my favourite castles in the UK.
With almost 2000 years of history, the castle’s walls have some stories to tell! It’s such a beautiful castle to visit as a lot of it is still very much intact and the grounds surrounding the castle walls are also worth the visit.
Read more: The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Cardiff Castle
60. Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantsysiliogogogoch
I’ve included the place above purely for comedic effect as there isn’t actually anything to do there, but it is a truly funny and unique bucket list idea!
You can get a picture with the sign of this Welsh village at the train station or at the local Co-op just as you enter the village.
61. Anglesey
Anglesey Island is renowned for its beautiful beaches and ancient ruins and it’s a popular tourist destination for visitors from near and far, particularly in the summer months.
Beaumaris Castle is worth a visit while you’re on Anglesey, plus the town of Holyhead has some great places to eat, especially if you’re looking for quaint little cafes or fish and chip shops.
62. Swansea Bay – bucket list ideas UK

Swansea Bay is another excellent destination you should have on your UK and Wales bucket list as it’s such a beautiful part of the country. We were very kindly invited on a press trip with Visit Swansea Bay a couple of years ago and it was such a fantastic first trip to this stunning area.
Read more: The Best Things To Do In Swansea Bay, Mumbles & Gower
63. Brighton
Brighton is one of the most sought-after bucket list destinations in the UK thanks to its vibrant culture, eclectic nightlife scene and awesome attractions and architecture.
The coastal city can be enjoyed in just a couple of hours, but you could easily spend longer meandering through its winding alleyways, seeking gems at vintage clothes shops and spending far too much money on the arcades.
64. The Lanes
The Lanes is one of the most popular and liveliest neighbourhoods in Brighton, home to antique shops, boutique clothes shops, upscale restaurants and quirky bars.
65. Brighton Pier
No trip to the seaside is complete without playing on the arcades, getting some candy floss and dodging diving seagulls, and Brighton Pier is the perfect place to do all of that and more.
66. Brighton Pavilion
The Royal Pavilion is a former royal residence that was built as a seaside retreat for King George IV in the late 1700s. Today, you can admire the building’s grand facade which doesn’t look too dissimilar to a much smaller Taj Mahal, as well as its impressive grounds and elaborate state rooms.
Read more: The Ultimate Weekend In Brighton Itinerary
67. Cornwall – ultimate UK bucket list ideas

Cornwall is the ultimate UK summer destination thanks to its plentiful beaches, stunning seaside resorts, incredible food and beautiful sights.
If you’re thinking of adding Cornwall to your UK bucket list, this is your sign to do so! Check out my top recommendations of things to see and do in Cornwall below!
68. Tintagel Castle
Tintagel Castle was one of the last places we visited on our south coast England road trip in August 2021, but it turned out to be one of my absolute favourite places.
Located on a rocky cliff right on the edge of the peninsula in Tintagel, Cornwall, the castle is a remarkable feat of architecture that originally dates back to the 13th century.
69. Land’s End
Land’s End is famed for being the most westerly point in England and the famous route from Land’s End to John O’ Groats in Scotland is completed by avid cyclists and extreme hikers every year.
I personally think that Land’s End is far too commercialised and it’s unbelievably touristy, but if you’re in Cornwall for a few days, it’s probably worth venturing over to see the dramatic coastal landscape.
70. St Michael’s Mount
St Michael’s Mount is a tidal island off the coast of Marazion and it can be accessed by foot when the tide is low. Of course, if you want to avoid getting stuck on the island, be sure to check tidal times before you visit, otherwise, just enjoy the views from the safety of the beach in Marazion!
71. Porthcurno Beach
Cornwall certainly isn’t short of beautiful beaches, but Porthcurno Beach might just be one of the very best beaches in Cornwall.
You can enjoy spectacular views of Porthcurno Beach from the Minack Theatre which is also worth a visit, or you can just enjoy the stunning white sand beach itself.
72. Eden Project
The Eden Project is often cited as one of the best things to do in Cornwall, but I personally didn’t rate it at all, especially considering it’s so expensive.
It’s home to the largest indoor rainforest in the world, which is very cool to see, especially if you’re into botanicals, but I think it’s far too expensive for the experience!
Read more: The Best Things To Do In Cornwall – Ultimate Travel Guide
73. Cheddar Gorge
Cheddar Gorge is a limestone gorge near Somerset that’s also home to hidden caves and dramatic clifftops, making it the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature for a few hours.
74. Yorkshire Dales – best bucket list ideas UK
The Yorkshire Dales don’t get as much love as many other national parks in the UK, but it’s a truly beautiful part of the country that’s well worth exploring.
From cascading waterfalls to hidden coves to incredible hiking opportunities and quiet villages, the Yorkshire Dales is a must-visit in the UK.
75. Fountains Abbey

Despite hearing so much about Fountains Abbey before I visited for the first time in 2020, I actually had very few expectations as I didn’t think it would be that amazing.
However, after spending a few hours there, I couldn’t believe just how beautiful it is and it’s now one of my most highly recommended things to do in Yorkshire.
Read more: Things To Do In Ripon – Cathedral, Fountains Abbey & More!
76. Knaresborough – ultimate UK bucket list ideas
Knaresborough might be one of the smaller towns in Yorkshire but it’s also one of my personal favourites. You only need to spend a couple of hours there to see all the highlights such as the Viaduct, the River Nidd and the castle, but if you’re ever in the area, I promise it’s worth the visit.
Read more: The Best Things To Do In Knaresborough, North Yorkshire
77. Yorkshire seaside

The Yorkshire coast doesn’t get nearly as much recognition as the south coast of England or the Northumberland coast, for example, but it’s one of the most beautiful coastal parts of the UK, in my opinion.
With so many seaside towns to explore, beautiful beaches that are perfect for surfing and swimming (if you’re brave enough!) and of course, an abundance of fish and chip shops, the Yorkshire seaside is a must for your British bucket list.
78. Whitby
Home to the gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey (renowned for being the inspiration behind Dracula), the Captain Cook Memorial Museum and 199 steps that lead up to a clifftop church, Whitby is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit on the Yorkshire coast.
Read more: Whitby Day Trip Itinerary
79. Scarborough – summer bucket list UK
Scarborough is another top seaside town in Yorkshire that’s super popular in the summer. With long stretches of beach, plenty of awesome arcades and some of the best fish and chip shops in the country, no visit to the Yorkshire coast is complete without a trip to Scarborough!
Read more: 18 Best Things To Do In Scarborough
80. Robin Hood’s Bay
I haven’t been to Robin Hood’s Bay since I was in primary school but I still remember the beauty of this hilly seaside village. It’s a picturesque fishing village with plenty of charming shops and cafes and it’s a worthwhile stop along the Yorkshire coast.
81. Filey
I used to frequent Filey almost every year as a child with my family, so I have many happy memories of this adorable seaside town. It’s not quite as popular or as big as Scarborough or Whitby, but it’s still a lovely place with a fantastic beach, especially in the summer months.
82. Bridlington
Bridlington is another seaside village that I haven’t visited since I was much younger, but I have vivid memories of going on school trips there. The RSPB Bempton Cliffs are worth visiting while you’re in the area to see wild Atlantic puffins making the cliffs their home.
Read more: The Best Seaside Towns In Yorkshire – Beautiful Yorkshire Coast
83. Liverpool – UK bucket list ideas
Liverpool is renowned for being one of the best cities in the UK for its nightlife, but it’s also got plenty of culture and history to enjoy if the clubbing scene isn’t your vibe.
It’s arguably best known for being the home of The Beatles, so you can find plenty of memorabilia dedicated to the iconic British band all over the city.
84. Margate

Another epic seaside resort to add to your UK bucket list is Margate, located in Kent on the southeast coast of England. Its most famous attraction is Dreamland; an awesome amusement park that boasts funfair rides and various other attractions for the whole family.
I also had some of the best fish and chips of my life in Margate at Peter’s Fish Factory, so be sure to add that to your list as well!
Read more: 17 Best Things To Do In Margate, Kent – Ultimate One Day Itinerary
85. Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral is one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England and originally dates back to 597 AD, so it’s positively teeming with history and it’s also incredibly beautiful, both inside and out.
86. Pembrokeshire Coast – UK bucket list ideas
The Pembrokeshire Coast should have been included in the section above about the best bucket list places in Wales, but it’s such a wonderful part of the country, that I wanted to give it its entirely own section.
There are so many castles, cathedrals, coastal paths and beaches to discover along the Pembrokeshire Coast, so it’s a great place to visit while in Wales.
Read more: The Ultimate South Wales Road Trip
87. Northumberland National Park

Northumberland National Park is one of the best places in the UK if you love outdoor adventures, breezy beaches and historic sites. Check out some of the best things to do in Northumberland below.
The Best Places To Visit In Northumberland
88. Alnwick Castle and Gardens
Famed for featuring as the filming location for several scenes in the Harry Potter film franchise, Alnwick Castle is a remarkable feat of architecture and history, regardless of whether you’re a fan of the wizarding world or not.
The nearby Alnwick Gardens are also worth a visit if you love beautiful flowers and sprawling shrubbery; it’s not the cheapest place to visit, but it’s worth it while you’re in the area.
Read more: Alnwick Castle Northumberland – The Best Things To Do In Alnwick
89. Bamburgh Castle
It’s no secret that the UK is home to an abundance of castles and I’ve included a fair few on this list already, but Bamburgh Castle might just be one of my very favourites in England.
It’s perched atop a small cliff right next to Bamburgh Beach, so not only is the castle and its grounds utterly lovely, the views of the beach and out to sea are also truly breathtaking. Bamburgh village itself is adorable; it’s super small but there are plenty of great pubs to enjoy a hearty meal after exploring the castle.
Read more: Bamburgh Castle Northumberland Review
90. Dunstanburgh Castle
Dunstanburgh Castle is another place worth visiting in Northumberland; not only is it epically located right on the coast, but the walk from the tiny fishing village of Craster right along the coast to the castle is also an experience in itself (albeit a rather windy and cold one!).
91. Hadrian’s Wall
The defensive fortification of Hadrian’s Wall originally dates all the way back to 122 AD and it is located near the border between Scotland and England. While many parts of the wall are now in ruins, there are still huge sections of it that remain very much intact and you can explore various sections of it from Wallsend in Newcastle upon Tyne in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria in the west.
92. Holy Island
Holy Island is a tidal island that sits just off the northeast coast, not too far from Bamburgh and it can be accessed via road when the tide is out.
Lindisfarne Castle is worth visiting while you’re on Holy Island and the ruins of the Priory are also worth checking out if you have the time.
Read more: The Best Castles In Northumberland – Top Historic Sites
93. Leeds Castle – ultimate UK bucket list ideas
Leeds Castle is located in Kent and a castle fortress of some kind has existed on its site since 857 AD. It’s often cited as the “loveliest castle in the world” thanks to its almost pristine condition and its location on an island in the middle of a lake.
94. Alton Towers – extreme bucket list ideas UK

If you’re looking for one of the best attractions in the UK, look no further than Alton Towers theme park. Home to dozens of adrenaline-inciting rides and rollercoasters, Alton Towers is the perfect place for thrill-seekers of all ages.
Read more: The Best Theme Parks In The UK – Flamingo Land, Lightwater Valley & More
95. Chatsworth House
Chatsworth House is one of the most prestigious estates in England that’s been passed down through 16 generations of the Devonshire family over the years.
You can take a tour of the stunning grounds and staterooms of Chatsworth House, making it one of the best day trips in the Derbyshire Dales.
96. Isle of Wight – family bucket list ideas UK
Located just off the south coast of England, the Isle of Wight is one of the best holiday destinations in the UK that feels like you’ve left the country, but it’s only two hours from London!
I’ve visited the Isle of Wight several times over the years and my family holidays to the Black Gang Chine amusement park are some of my favourite childhood memories.
97. The Isles of Scilly – bucket list ideas UK
Situated just off the coast of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly look like a landscape straight from Italy or Greece. The island of Tresco is one of the most popular places to visit, with attractions such as Tresco Abbey Garden, the Valhalla Museum and Cromwell’s Castle making it a worthwhile holiday destination in the UK.
98. Center Parcs

Center Parcs is a place that I’ve visited almost every year since I was incredibly young with my family as it’s the perfect holiday destination for families without even leaving the country.
There are several Center Parcs locations across the UK, with my personal favourite being Whinfell Forest in Cumbria.
Read more: Center Parcs Whinfell Forest Review
99. National Space Centre
Located in Leicester, the National Space Centre is a must-visit for all space and astronomy fanatics. There are so many awesome attractions and exhibits to discover, including a real-life piece of the moon which truly blew my mind!
100. Norfolk Broads
Set in the beautiful countryside, the Norfolk Broads are a series of lock-free waterways with plenty of hiking opportunities, as well as the chance to get out on the water and discover the National Park via boat.
101. Manchester – UK bucket list ideas
I’ve saved this famous UK city for last as it’s perhaps my least favourite recommendation on this list, but I think that’s because I’ve not really given Manchester much chance as my visits over the years have always been very short and sweet.
However, I know that Manchester is one of the best shopping, dining and entertainment cities in England, meaning that it deserved a place on this ultimate UK bucket list.
I hope you found some hidden gems in this ultimate UK bucket list and I hope you have the best time planning a visit to some of these epic spots!
Related posts:
- The Best UK City Breaks – 20 Beautiful Cities To Visit In The UK
- Castle Combe Photo Guide – The Ultimate Guide To The Prettiest Village In The UK
- The Best Theme Parks In The UK – Flamingo Land, Alton Towers & More
- AtoZ UK Road Trip Challenge – The Perfect Itinerary
- The UK Walking Holidays You Need To Try
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Is there anything else you’d add to the ultimate UK bucket list? How many things have you ticked off already? Let me know in the comments or on Instagram at @imjustagirl_16.