There really is no best cruise port when on a
cruise in the United Kingdom, as they all have a different charm, but there are definitely some must-see ones that you should be
sure not to miss.
London
A cosmopolitan city with an edge, London’s historic buildings, galleries, world-class restaurants, and thriving culture makes exploring the capital of England a must-see tour of sights and sounds.
Henley on Thames
Home to the best-known rowing regatta in Europe, Henley on Thames is a quaint riverside town were strolling the streets and taking in the Thames River is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Windsor
The Queen of England’s residence, Windsor Castle, is the centerpiece of Windsor that brings visitors from all over the globe to enjoy the city’s streets where boutique stores, cutting-edge restaurants, and regal cafes give plenty of options for people wanting to explore a stunning city.
Scilly Isles
One of England’s best-kept secrets, the Scilly Isles are a short trip from the mainland but retain a unique charm that only an island could produce. The main inhabited islands are bustling during the summer months with visitors looking for beaches, beautiful gardens, art galleries featuring local artists, and fun restaurants featuring locally grown produce.
Llandudno
A beach resort town in Wales that emulates the Victorian era with a long pier and beachside promenades, Llandudno is great for enjoying the sea or hiking nearby trails through the Welsh countryside.
Iona and Staffa, Inner Hebrides
Scotland’s Hebrides Islands are some of the most beautiful islands in Europe. Iona boasts ancient stone carvings, religious ruins, and a chapel where it is thought that more than 40 kings of Scotland are buried. Staffa is an uninhabited island where Fingal’s Cave inspire those who visit with its astounding natural acoustics. The 72 foot (21.9 meters) high grotto is framed by natural pillars and a walkway that enables travelers to explore deep inside this natural marvel.
The Skelligs
Valentia Island in the Skelligs archipelago off the coast of Ireland was left untouched by the Vikings and has relics dating back to before Christianity. Stop by the visitor center to learn about the Vikings or the monks who called the islands home, and left an ensemble of stone huts on the nearby Skellig, Michael Island.
Edinburgh
The Royal Mile winding through the historic center of Edinburgh has a great mix of culture, historic buildings including the Edinburgh Castle, neoclassical architecture, bustling markets, and national galleries, this is a must-see for visitors as it has a little bit of everything.
Shetland Islands
In the northernmost part of the United Kingdom, Scotland’s Shetland Islands wears many hats for travelers. They are a knitting mecca as the wool here is much sought after, a wildlife haven for seabirds onshore and the whales offshore, and a place where historic monuments dot the landscape amid farms overlooking the ocean.
Dublin
Dublin’s sophisticated culture, storied past, and multifaceted people bring fresh air to exploring the city’s museums, pubs, and galleries. People from all over the globe live, visit, and trade goods here, making it an international refuge where restaurants serve inspired food and there is a good chance that you will hear a slew of languages being spoken on any given day among the locals.
For more information about vacations in the United Kingdom that take you to destinations far away from the beaten path,
contact one of our travel experts.
