If you’re visiting the United Kingdom for the first time, you might be wondering which destinations to add to your itinerary. This island nation includes not only England and its famous capital, London, but also Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. While there’s so much to discover, from charming towns to breathtaking landscapes, the compact size of the United Kingdom makes it easy to pack a lot into your vacation. 

While planning your trip, you can find accommodation in all corners of the UK at Rent Hero, which lists everything from Manchester rentals to apartments in the heart of London. It’s a user-friendly platform for connecting property owners with holidaymakers, ensuring you have a comfortable “home away from home”. No matter where you choose to stay, you’re just a short train or bus ride from world-class museums, storied castles and spectacular hiking trails. 

London, England

Home to some of the world’s most recognisable landmarks, the English capital needs no introduction and is high on the list of must-visit destinations for most first-timers to the UK. It’s also home to the international aviation hub of Heathrow Airport, making it a good place to spend a few days shaking off any jet lag before venturing further afield. 

That being said, you could spend weeks in London and only just scratch the surface of what it has to offer, with hundreds of world-class museums, art galleries and architectural icons to explore. You can see the Crown Jewels at the Tower Bridge, watch the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace or soak up the elevated views across the city from the London Eye. London is also home to fantastic markets in Camden, Covent Garden and Brick Lane (to name just a few). 

Edinburgh, Scotland

The Scottish capital is no less impressive than the English one, although on a much more compact scale. It’s one of the United Kingdom’s most photogenic cities, with its storied castle rising atop a rocky crag in the heart of the Old Town. After witnessing the One O’Clock Salute and seeing the Scottish Crown Jewels, you can stroll down the cobblestone Royal Mile with its traditional pubs and art galleries. Be sure to visit the National Gallery of Scotland and the Scotch Whisky Experience before enjoying the sweeping panoramas across Edinburgh from Arthur’s Seat. 

Snowdonia National Park, Wales

With its glacial-carved formations and rugged peaks, Snowdonia is one of the most spectacular parts of Wales. It boasts an extensive network of hiking trails and a mountain railway that climbs to the 1,085-metre-high summit of Mount Snowdon. When you’re not kayaking, rock climbing or paragliding your way through Snowdonia National Park, you can tour the charming village of Llanberis or get your cultural fix at the National Slate Museum. 

The Cotswolds, England

With its photogenic villages and gorgeous rural scenery, The Cotswolds is a truly magnificent corner of the United Kingdom. It encompasses an area of rolling hills that rise above the upper River Thames and is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. On a visit to The Cotswolds, you can delve into the Roman history of Bath and get lost amidst the meandering waterways of Bourton-on-the-Water, which has been nicknamed the “Venice of the Cotswolds”. If you prefer to explore on foot, you can hike the 164-kilometre-long Cotswold Way, which connects Bath to Chipping Campden.

Scottish Highlands, Scotland

Encompassing the rugged mountains of northwest Scotland, the Highlands are among the UK’s most enchanting regions. It’s home to the storied waters of Loch Ness with its mythical monster and the dramatic medieval ruins of Urquhart Castle. On a scenic drive, you can discover the breathtaking waterfalls of Glencoe and marvel at the 1,345-metre-high peak of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the United Kingdom. If time allows, make the journey to the Isle of Skye with its beguiling landscapes that transform with the changing light throughout the day.

Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

Despite its small size, Northern Ireland is blessed with an abundance of natural attractions, none of which is more fascinating than the Giant’s Causeway. Now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this collection of basalt columns appears like a huge staircase rising from the North Atlantic Ocean. Begin at the interactive visitor’s centre to learn about the geology of this natural wonder and the local myths surrounding its creation.

Lake District National Park, England

Not only is this area of northwest England renowned for its spectacular scenery but it’s a cultural landscape as the inspiration for countless artists and writers. It’s deeply connected to the children’s author Beatrix Potter, who played an important role in the preservation of the Lake District. After visiting her former farmhouse at Hill Top, you can cruise the enchanting waters of Lake Windermere or discover one of the area’s picturesque villages. The park is also home to more than 3,000 kilometres of hiking trails just waiting to be explored.