Like every year, 2025 has presented a never-ending stream of “the best cities to visit this summer,” “the cheapest city to visit,” etc. I always keep an eye on these lists, because just occasionally, they dig up somewhere new or less-visited.

Not so for the new list of ‘top UK destinations to visit this summer,’ as named by CN Traveller based on recommendations from online travel agent Hoppa. Essentially, it names five of the most famous cities in the UK outside London — hardly revelational, but they are all well worth a visit. Suggesting we visit in summer, though…? That was the tipping point for me.

To save you the trouble, the article names Manchester, York, Belfast, Edinburgh, and Bath as the best places to visit this summer. If you’re coming to the UK on a big summer jaunt, those cities are likely to be on your radar already, but if you live in the UK, or you’re keeping your plans loosey goosey, I’d recommend looking elsewhere.

I’ve visited four of those five cities over the last year, and every single one of them is best enjoyed outside peak summer. 

Take York, for example; I was there two weeks ago. It’s gorgeous, and there are lots of great restaurants. When you visit, you’ll likely want to walk around the old town, along The Shambles, and visit the Minster. You may even want to lean into the city’s spooky side. 

But a summer trip is basically an invitation to wait in lines, battle along narrow streets through hordes of tourists, dodge the raucous hen and stag parties, and pay over the odds for fairly basic accommodation. 

In fact, that’s a theme that repeats across all these destinations: big money, big crowds. Meals out are expensive, reservations are hard to come by, and frankly, there’s just so little room to breathe and enjoy your surroundings.

Having lived in Glasgow on and off since 2007, I’ve always had one rule about visiting our more famous and desirable neighbour, Edinburgh — don’t do it in August. And if you must, come prepared. 

A trip to Edinburgh in August should be a conscious decision to join the tens of thousands other visitors descending on the city for the festival. Or should I say “festivals” — there’s not just one, but five, spanning art, opera, comedy, literature, and more. You can catch big names on small stages, street performers on corners, up-and coming stars in bars. It’s great if that’s what you’re into! But even strolling down Princes Street becomes a mission during this time.

Visiting the castle is a must for any first-timer, but be sure to book your tickets well in advance during summer. Usually, I’d say you can save a few bucks by skipping the tour and just taking in the views from the outside, but they’ll be blocked off by the set-up for the military tattoo.

All that to say, readers, I just don’t think it’s worth it if you really want to experience a city. 

Even in May, Belfast was buzzing and pricey, with little chance of grabbing a table without planning ahead. Manchester in August required the specialist knowledge of a local to find us a brunch spot worth making those reservations for, and the only affordable accommodation within the city was a noisy hostel room with no air conditioning. It was safe and didn’t break the bank, at least.

So where would I recommend in summer? Here are a few suggestions, the first of which likely won’t surprise you:

Glasgow

First off, it’s within easy reach of Edinburgh if you do want to dip into the festival scene. Trains connect the two cities during the day in only 50 minutes, while buses run all night to get you home after a late show. 

But there’s plenty to see and do in Scotland’s under-rated largest city without heading east. The grand architecture, free museums, and quirky character like Duke of Wellington’s perpetual cone hat and the old, circular subway system are enough to make anyone fall for Glasgow’s charm. Plus, it's a haven for foodies.

Folkestone

Isn’t that where the Channel Tunnel goes to France? Why yes, actually, it is. But Flight Finder Larissa assures me it’s also a great spot for a weekend break. In her words, “it’s particularly cute — it has a very Brighton vibe without being so crowded as Brighton.”

By that, she means you’ll find cobbled streets full of colourful, artsy, and independently-owned shops and cafés, as well as a city beach safe for surfing and swimming. It’s got its fair share of wartime history behind it too, with the nearby Battle of Britain Memorial and the Zigzag Path cave. And on a clear day, you can even see France from The Leas.

Lincoln

Looking for that gothic cathedral, fortified castle, and cutesy cobblestone street vibe you’d expect in York or Edinburgh? Turns out Lincoln’s got it too, minus the millions of tour buses. 

Between the Arboretum, Roman ruins, nearby country parks and Downton Abbey-esque mansion, you can easily fill a few days of glorious summer sunshine. By day, you’ll stumble across market stalls selling fresh produce and local crafts, and come nightfall, the local ghost walk serves up a more gruesome slice of local lore.

But should the British summer show up in traditionally unpredictable fashion, you still can pass the time with a spot of history; Lincoln Castle houses an original Magna Carta from 1215, while the nearly 1000-year-old cathedral was the tallest building in the world for over 200 years. Be sure to look out for its demonic resident!

There are certainly more cities around the UK — and indeed, across Europe — that deserve a shout-out here for their charm and affordability. Get in touch and share your favourite summer city breaks off the usual tourist trail!