Since I've been young I have really enjoyed looking at architecture. There is something about the design of buildings that appeals to me and how designs change over time. The UK has many architectural styles from Georgian to Edwardian, Victorian and more. Let's have a look at my personal choice for my top three cities in the UK for architecture.

Bath

Bath is one of the great Spa towns of Europe and the city of Bath is a World Heritage Site. The Roman remains at the Roman Baths are very well preserved and the thermae bath waters still run although you can't bathe in the waters there.  You can visit but be sure to book in advance as it is very popular.  

Bath is also known for its Georgian architecture, with the Royal Crescent, a row of 30 terraced houses laid out in a large crescent, being the highlight.  It was built between 1767 and 1774 and is among the greatest example of Georgian architecture to be found in the UK. Bath is a beautiful city and is well worth a visit for its history and architecture as well as its cathedral, independent shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. 

York 

York is a city in Yorkshire in the north of England and is known for its cathedral and one of the best-preserved medieval streets in the world called The Shambles. The buildings in the Shambles date back to around 1350 to 1475.  Known to the Romans and the Vikings you can see some of the city's history at the Jorvik Viking Centre, where you can see the sounds and even smells of the Viking era.  

York Minster

Don't forget to check out York Minster which is the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. It's worth a visit even if you are not religious to admire the architecture.

Edinburgh

 

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland has some fantastic architecture and is well worth visiting. Another UNESCO world heritage site, it has a spectacular collection of medieval and classic architecture. Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit, with a long rich history as a royal residence, military garrison, prison and fortress. 

Scottish Parliament Building 

Whilst the Old Town is, yes you guessed it, the oldest part of the centre and is home to The Royal Mile. Visit the Real Mary King's Close to see the hidden history of the area, a street frozen in time, from the 17th century. Visit Holyrood Palace the official residence of the Queen in Scotland and see the modern Scottish parliament building.

Where to book 

If you are looking to book a hotel in these cities, I advise either going to the hotel direct or if you don't know where you want to stay, using a booking site like Ebooking where you can filter your requirements such as free cancellation, star rating, accommodation type, neighbourhood and more. 

Let me know, have you visited any of these cities? Do you have a favourite city in the UK

*Collaborative post

Photo of York by Hayden Pollard on Unsplash