The Best Places to Go in the UK in 2026

This comprehensive guide is part of our broader global exploration of the Best Places to Go in 2026, offering diverse inspiration for travelers worldwide.

North Yorkshire, England

Go for: Gothic allure and stargazing delights

North Yorkshire, a region synonymous with dramatic landscapes and literary heritage, is experiencing a thrilling resurgence, making it a top contender for 2026. A significant catalyst is the buzz surrounding a new, "aggressively provocative" adaptation of Emily Brontë’s iconic novel, Wuthering Heights. This cinematic venture, starring Barbie‘s Margot Robbie, Euphoria‘s Jacob Elordi, and directed by Saltburn‘s Emerald Fennell, has created a frisson of excitement, drawing attention to the very dales where the gothic romance is set. Principal filming locations within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, such as Swaledale and Arkengarthdale, including the historic Old Gang Lead Mines, the picturesque Surrender Bridge, the atmospheric Old Bouldershaw House, Lady Mary Hut, and the vast, windswept expanses of Booze Moor and Melbecks Moor, alongside the charmingly preserved village of Low Row, are set to become pilgrimage sites for film buffs and literary enthusiasts alike. Simonstone Hall, which graciously hosted the star-studded cast and crew, is now strategically capitalizing on its brush with fame, offering romantic packages designed to immerse guests in the spirit of the moors, albeit with a more joyful ending than Brontë’s tragic tale. This isn’t North Yorkshire’s only recent cinematic moment; Redmire, Embsay, and the Bolton Abbey Railway also played crucial roles in the post-apocalyptic thriller The Bone Temple, a new installment in the 28 Days Later saga, further cementing the region’s appeal as a versatile film backdrop.

Beyond the silver screen, the outdoor community in Yorkshire is celebrating a monumental achievement: the official designation of the Coast to Coast Path as a National Trail this March. This 192-mile legendary route, conceived by Alfred Wainwright, has undergone years of meticulous improvement, with significant investment in upgrading footpaths, bridleways, signage, stiles, and gates. Stretching from St Bees in Cumbria to Robin Hood’s Bay in the North York Moors, the trail offers an unparalleled journey through diverse British landscapes, encompassing the dramatic fells of the Lake District, the distinctive limestone dales of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and the heather-coated moorland and coastal cliffs of the North York Moors National Park. Hikers can anticipate encounters with red squirrels, deer, and various birds of prey, all while enjoying welcoming accommodations ranging from rustic shepherd’s huts to charming B&Bs in historic villages.

These expansive, unadulterated spaces also offer prime conditions for stargazing. As an International Dark Sky Reserve, the North York Moors National Park is set to open a new, state-of-the-art observatory during this year’s Dark Skies Festival (February 13-March 1). The Dark Skies Station, situated within the scenic riverside surroundings of Danby Lodge National Park Centre, will provide unparalleled opportunities for astronomy enthusiasts. This year also marks a significant milestone for Danby Lodge and Sutton Bank National Park Centre, both celebrating their 50th anniversaries, underscoring their enduring role in connecting visitors with nature.

Further along the coast, the historic seaside resort of Scarborough is marking its own impressive anniversary: 400 years since its official designation as a spa town. A "Scarborough 400" program promises a summer packed with special events, outdoor activities, heritage trails exploring its rich past, and the unveiling of a permanent new sculpture, a £95,000 (approximately $130,000) artistic addition that will commemorate its legacy and look towards its future as a vibrant coastal destination. This blend of literary allure, outdoor adventure, celestial wonders, and historic celebrations positions North Yorkshire as an unmissable destination for 2026.

County Antrim, Northern Ireland

Go for: Irish music and exhilarating coastal walks

County Antrim, a jewel in Northern Ireland’s crown, is set for a landmark year in 2026, offering a captivating blend of natural wonders, cultural immersion, and exciting new developments. A highlight is the much-anticipated reopening of the Gobbins Cliff Path on the Antrim Coast this March. Following a necessary closure due to a rockfall, adventurers can once again experience the exhilarating walkways that hug the towering basalt cliffs, offering intimate encounters with the wild Irish Sea as waves crash dramatically below. The path’s visitors’ centre will also launch an all-new audio-visual experience in October, ensuring that the Gobbins’ breathtaking narrative is accessible even to those unable to physically traverse the challenging route. This reopening is merely the first phase of an ambitious, multi-million-pound development set to transform the visitor experience by 2028/29, with plans for a dramatic 200-foot-high panoramic staircase and an extended clifftop path, ultimately creating a spectacular three-mile, three-hour circular walking route.

The Gobbins path is a key attraction along the Causeway Coastal Route, a breathtaking 120-mile coastal road trip stretching from Belfast to Derry City, traversing both Antrim and Londonderry counties. 2026 is an especially opportune time to embark on this scenic drive, as the iconic Giant’s Causeway celebrates 40 years as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This striking geological formation, a result of intense volcanic activity 50-60 million years ago, continues to mesmerize visitors with its hexagonal basalt columns and mythical lore, its anniversary underscoring its enduring global significance.

Culturally, Belfast is preparing for an unprecedented event: Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the world’s largest celebration of Irish music and culture, marks its 75th birthday by being hosted in Belfast for the very first time. As a UNESCO City of Music, Belfast is the perfect stage for what is expected to be the largest gathering of people (over 750,000 visitors) in the island of Ireland’s history. This week-long festival, typically held in August, will feature an unparalleled program of competitions, concerts, céilís, and workshops, showcasing traditional Irish music, dance, and language, and promising an electric atmosphere that will reverberate throughout the city and beyond.

County Antrim’s stunning landscapes are also increasingly gracing screens worldwide. Lisa McGee, creator of the immensely popular Derry Girls, has chosen locations around the historic Derry City Walls and the scenic Antrim Coast Road for her new comedy-thriller series, How To Get To Heaven From Belfast, set to premiere in February. Meanwhile, the just-released Game of Thrones spin-off, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, capitalized on the region’s dramatic scenery, filming at Glenarm Castle, Cave Hill Country Park, and the Hidden Village of Galboly in the Glens of Antrim. This consistent presence in major productions highlights Northern Ireland’s growing reputation as a prime filming location and fuels film tourism.

For those seeking respite after exhilarating hikes, spirited dances, or cinematic explorations, Belfast offers new luxurious accommodation. The Bedford, a stylish new five-star, 82-room boutique hotel and restaurant, is set to open its doors on May 1. Housed within a beautifully restored Edwardian building dating back to 1904, its prime location on Donegall Square North places guests in the very heart of Belfast’s city center, offering a sophisticated base from which to explore the city and the wider county.

Corsham, England

Go for: A crowd-free Cotswolds alternative with honey-hued country delights

Corsham, a market town in Wiltshire, offers a refreshingly authentic and unhurried alternative to the often-crowded hotspots of the Cotswolds, yet shares the same captivating honey-hued stone architecture. Here, a charming nonchalance pervades, perhaps best personified by the resident peacocks that freely strut down the high street, seemingly oblivious to the town’s undeniable beauty or the recent starry invasion for Disney’s adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s Rivals. This summer, Corsham is set to further enhance its appeal with a significant opening from the acclaimed Beckford Group. Renowned for their collection of gold-plated West Country pubs and restaurants, the group will launch Corsham House in a former bank building on the high street. The ground floor will feature a sophisticated brasserie and bottle shop, echoing the success of their Beckford Bottle Shop in nearby Bath, where diners enjoy intimate, candlelit small plates of courgette fritti or anchovies on toast. Crucially, Corsham House will also boast 14 beautifully appointed bedrooms, providing an ideal base for exploring this understated corner of Wiltshire.

The Beckford Group’s expansion extends six miles west towards Bath, where The King’s Arms in the village of Monkton Farleigh is slated to open this September. This 17th-century inn will receive the group’s signature touch, transforming it into a haven for both weekend mini-breakers and wellington-booted locals seeking a sanctuary. From Monkton Farleigh, it’s a mere four-mile journey to Bradford-on-Avon, a town that offers a delightful Georgian fix without the bustling crowds of Bath. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure pastries from the much-loved Pipit Bakery on Silver Street. Further afield, the imposing Iford Manor beckons, where head chef Matthew Briddon’s supper clubs are highly coveted. For a unique wellness experience, visitors can book a session at Campwell’s wood-fired saunas, nestled on a family sheep farm just outside the village of Winsley.

Back in Corsham, a leisurely stroll begins with a coffee from Woody’s Deli, followed by a visit to the Corsham Bookshop, known for its impeccable selection of books and cards. Art enthusiasts can delve into the contemporary offerings at Oil & Ink gallery, while those interested in traditional craftsmanship can peek through the window of Coppins Jewellers to observe the artisans at work. For lunch, Mother & Wild is the go-to spot, serving delicious sourdough pizzas topped with local pancetta. The exploration continues past the charming 17th-century Flemish weavers’ cottages, culminating at the majestic Corsham Court, a stately home that has been the residence of the Methuen family since the 18th century – and, indeed, the origin of those freely roaming peacocks. Corsham, with its blend of historic charm, burgeoning culinary scene, and cultural quietude, offers a compelling and crowd-free escape for 2026.

Cardiff, Wales

Go for: Welsh culture and new neighborhood hotspots

Cardiff, Wales’ dynamic and compact capital, is poised for a remarkable year in 2026, showcasing a burgeoning cultural program, significant infrastructure upgrades, and an exciting wave of new culinary ventures. The National Museum Cardiff is leading the cultural charge with a retrospective of Gwen John, one of Wales’ most celebrated artists, launching on February 7. This will be the first exhibition of its kind in over 40 years, offering a rare opportunity to delve into the nuanced and introspective works of this pioneering figure. Further cementing the city’s artistic credentials, the Artistic Museum of Contemporary Art (AMOCA), which debuted with two successful pop-up exhibitions in 2025, is slated to establish its permanent home in 2026, marking a pivotal moment for modern art in the Welsh capital.

On the infrastructure front, Transport for Wales’ ambitious South Wales Metro expansion is set to revolutionize connectivity, with brand-new tram-trains launching in 2026. This initiative will create significantly improved links to South Wales’ breathtaking Valleys, opening up more of the region’s natural beauty and heritage to both residents and visitors. Cardiff Central, Wales’ busiest train station and a Grade II-listed landmark, is undergoing a substantial £140 million makeover. This extensive renovation includes the loving restoration of its Art Deco features and the unveiling of a sparkling new concourse, promising a more efficient and aesthetically pleasing gateway to the city. From Cardiff Central, visitors can easily hop on a train to the mighty Caerphilly Castle, Wales’ largest castle, just 20 minutes away. This medieval masterpiece, fresh from a £10 million restoration, stands as a testament to Welsh history and engineering prowess.

Cardiff’s culinary scene is also flourishing, with an array of exciting new neighborhood restaurants. Sonder Bar & Bistro, helmed by ex-Pasture chef Jake Lewis, has opened its doors just around the corner from the Michelin-starred Gorse and Thomas by Tom Simmons in the artsy Pontcanna district. Tom Simmons himself is expanding his empire with The Paper Plane by Tom Simmons, taking over a space in the Grade I-listed 20 Park Place, mere steps from the National Museum Cardiff. These new additions underscore Cardiff’s growing reputation as a vibrant foodie destination. Adding to the city’s hospitality offerings, plans are underway for a new Moxy Hotel to open near Cardiff Central, catering to a new generation of travelers seeking stylish yet affordable accommodation. With its blend of rich cultural heritage, forward-thinking infrastructure, and an exploding gastronomic scene, Cardiff is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for 2026.

Bloomsbury, London, England

Go for: Intellectually stimulating activities and exciting new openings

Bloomsbury, a London neighborhood historically shaped by profound ideas and intellectual discourse, is set to reclaim its status as a cultural epicenter in 2026. Romanticized as the heart of the Bloomsbury Group – where literary giants like Virginia Woolf, E.M. Forster, and John Maynard Keynes converged to debate literature, art, and societal norms – it is also widely recognized as London’s "Knowledge Quarter," home to prestigious museums, universities, and research institutions. In 2026, this storied past seamlessly intertwines with a dynamic present, marked by a compelling influx of cultural openings and initiatives championing the arts and academia.

For those seeking a stylish base, The Zetter, a boutique hotel favorite, will unveil its Bloomsbury branch this spring. Its design concept, inspired by the area’s historic residents and elegant Georgian architecture, promises 68 exquisitely appointed bedrooms featuring luxurious claw-foot baths and richly toned interiors, steps away from Museum Street. This new opening is poised to become a quintessential Bloomsbury experience, blending contemporary comfort with historical reverence.

The neighborhood’s vibrant cultural calendar is highlighted by the Bloomsbury Festival, celebrating its 20th anniversary with a month-long program in October. This annual event transforms the area into a hub of creativity, featuring diverse art installations, cutting-edge science exhibitions, and captivating performances, reflecting the multidisciplinary spirit of its intellectual heritage. Meanwhile, the venerable British Museum has announced a heavyweight 2026 calendar, featuring major exhibitions that promise to draw international attention, including a rare display of the Bayeux Tapestry and a deep dive into the fascinating world of Samurai culture. Further enriching the academic landscape, the British Library is kicking off a monumental £1.1 billion extension this year. While the full realization of this industry-leading renovation will take time, it promises not only expanded exhibition spaces but also significant boosts to local green spaces and housing, demonstrating a holistic commitment to urban development.

Bloomsbury’s culinary scene is also flourishing. Fans of Marylebone’s acclaimed Jikoni will be delighted by chef Ravinder Bhogal’s return with a new restaurant, Karam, opening in the modernist Brunswick Centre. Karam will offer a unique menu of vegetarian fare, deeply inspired by the communal kitchens of the Sikh community, promising an innovative and flavorful dining experience. The St John café at the London Review Bookshop, already a cult favorite, continues to epitomize the area’s artsy, intellectual feel, providing a perfect spot for thoughtful conversation over excellent food.

Behind the scenes, Camden Council has unveiled a new "vision" for Bloomsbury, outlining plans to create a greener, safer, and more inclusive public realm. This includes initiatives for increased pedestrianization, improved public spaces, and enhanced environmental sustainability, ensuring that Bloomsbury remains not just historically significant but also a forward-thinking, livable, and appealing destination. All these developments collectively mark 2026 as an exceptionally exciting year for one of London’s most beautiful and intellectually rich postcodes.

Islay, Scotland

Go for: Whisky, whisky, whisky

Islay, the captivating peat-cut island in the Inner Hebrides, has been a cornerstone of the whisky world since its first distillery opened in 1779. Nearly 250 years later, this remote outpost is once again setting the whisky world alight, undergoing a remarkable transformation that is both thrilling and unprecedented. For lovers of "the water of life," 2026 brings a raft of exciting new developments. Openings are a rare and significant event in the Hebrides, but this year marks the arrival of not one, but two new distilleries, signifying a profound period of growth and innovation.

Nowhere is this thrilling shift more palpable than at Laggan Bay Distillery, which is poised to become the 12th whisky house on the island. Located near the expansive, toffee-colored Big Strand, Islay’s longest beach, this launch from the masterminds behind Edinburgh Gin and Glengoyne is arguably one of the most newsworthy stories of the year in the whisky industry. Its arrival alone would be monumental, but it is soon to be joined by a second significant player: Portintruan, which will also be up and running outside Port Ellen on Islay’s south coast. These new additions not only increase Islay’s whisky-producing capacity but also introduce fresh styles and philosophies to the island’s celebrated peated malts, promising a broader spectrum of flavors for enthusiasts to explore.

Adding another layer of luxury and sophistication to Islay’s offering is the newly opened Ardbeg House, an ambitious venture from the French luxury empire LVMH. Ardbeg, historically known for its intensely peated, smoky, and maritime single malts, once represented the wilder, darker side of Islay whiskies. Now, with Ardbeg House, the brand is pushing the boundaries of whisky tourism, embodying opportunity and optimism. This 12-bedroom boutique residence in Port Ellen offers a truly immersive experience where guests can eat, drink, and unplug in an environment designed with kaleidoscopic textiles, richly detailed furnishings, and a level of luxury previously unseen on the island. This development signals a new era for whisky tourism, blending traditional reverence for the spirit with contemporary high-end hospitality.

For whisky aficionados, 2026 on Islay promises an unparalleled journey through distillery tours, exclusive tastings, and the vibrant atmosphere of festivals like Fèis Ìle, all set against a backdrop of rugged natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and a deep-rooted cultural heritage. Islay is not just a place to drink whisky; it’s a place to experience its very soul, now more than ever.

Sherborne, England

Go for: Artsy crowds

Sherborne, a quintessentially English market town nestled in North Dorset, radiates an timeless charm. Its age-old, biscuit-colored stone buildings cluster beneath the majestic gaze of Sherborne Abbey, their quaint, often wonky, beamed interiors housing a delightful array of bakeries, independent galleries, cozy coffee shops, and tardis-like antique labyrinths. Beyond the town’s immediate embrace, two historic castles – the ancient Sherborne Old Castle and the grand Sherborne Castle, both once owned by Sir Walter Raleigh – stand in wistful conversation across an 18th-century lake. Further still, rolling cattle-grazed meadows and ancient forests stretch into the horizon. Unlike its more bustling Somerset siblings just across the North Dorset border, Sherborne has, until recently, managed to retain a serene, unblemished character, largely untouched by the influx of London emigres or mass tourism.

However, the town, long perceived as somewhat stuck in a "crusty cream tea" gear, has recently begun to awaken to its full creative potential, shedding its calcifying shell. The undeniable catalyst for this artistic renaissance is its magnificent new Arts Centre, The Sherborne. Housed in an imposing Georgian townhouse – a building where Charles Dickens himself once gave one of his most famous readings – The Sherborne is now a magnet for arts enthusiasts. It’s pulling in discerning crowds with high-caliber exhibitions, such as those featuring the iconic Quentin Blake and the esteemed Sir James Thornhill (curated by Liz Gilmore, formerly of Hastings Contemporary). Complementing these visual feasts, a popular Cinematheque screens the latest films, while eco-inclined workshops, such as "junk modeling art buffets," engage the community in creative sustainability.

The artistic theme seamlessly extends to the bottom of Cheap Street, where the distressed historic walls of Café D’Urberville, an inky, ancient building forming part of the Abbey complex, are adorned with captivating abstract oil paintings, predominantly by Paula Natalie Young, whose studio resides above. These artistic surroundings are perfectly complemented by rooms brimming with delectable Dorset apple cakes and generous piles of toast topped with the finest West Country bounty. For those inspired to unleash their own creativity, artist Victoria Young-Jamieson’s Studio Sherborne in the Old Yarn Mills offers "Drink & Draw" workshops, providing a convivial atmosphere for artistic expression. Participants can warm up beforehand at The Yard (The Vineyards of Sherborne) a few doors down, which champions "beauties" from boutique wineries, smaller growers, and family-run vineyards, showcasing the region’s burgeoning wine scene.

The high street itself is undergoing a refreshing transformation, with charming new independent shops like the soil-to-skincare boutique Iona & Lime and the kitsch gift shop Circus replacing more traditional establishments. A monthly farmer’s market increasingly draws gourmands seeking fresh, local produce. For a truly exceptional dining experience, foodies must venture beyond Sherborne Castle to The Queen’s Arms, where Luke Bryant, one of the West Country’s rising culinary stars, leads the kitchen at just 23 years old. His refined venison ragu and Blackmore Vale steak, creatively drawing on Dorset and Somerset’s top-drawer produce, exemplify the town’s burgeoning gastronomic prowess. Sherborne, with its rich history, vibrant new arts scene, and emerging culinary landscape, is a town confidently stepping into its own, offering a compelling staycation for those seeking cultural enrichment and authentic English charm.

A version of this story originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK.