Planning a trip to the United Kingdom in 2026? From experiencing the legendary Glastonbury Festival and the colorful Notting Hill Carnival to exploring the serene Lake District and visiting the historic Tower of London, the UK is packed with unforgettable experiences. Here’s what we think you might love to do and see.
Best Places to Go in the United Kingdom in 2026
- Attend the Glastonbury Festival in Somerset – June 24-28, 2026
- Experience the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland – August 7-31, 2026
- Visit the Notting Hill Carnival in London – August 30-31, 2026
- Explore the Lake District National Park in Cumbria – Year-round
- Discover the historic city of Bath – Year-round
- Attend the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London – June 29 to July 12, 2026
- Experience the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – August 7-29, 2026
- Explore the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland – Year-round
- Attend the Chelsea Flower Show in London – May 19-23, 2026
- Visit Stonehenge in Wiltshire – Year-round
- Experience the Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival – July 2026 (Dates TBA)
- Explore the Scottish Highlands – Year-round
- Attend the Manchester International Festival – July 2026 (Check for the 2027 Biennial or 2026 special interim events)
- Visit the British Museum in London – Year-round
- Experience the Isle of Wight Festival – June 11-14, 2026
- Explore the Cotswolds – Year-round
- Attend the London Film Festival – October 2026
Attend the Glastonbury Festival in Somerset
From June 24-28, 2026, the iconic Glastonbury Festival will feature a diverse lineup of artists across multiple stages. Tickets for the 2026 edition are expected to go on sale in late 2025, and as always, they are likely to sell out within minutes.
Experience the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland
Running from August 7-31, 2026, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival, showcasing thousands of performances across various genres. It’s a hub for creativity and innovation, attracting artists and audiences from around the globe.
Visit the Notting Hill Carnival in London
On August 30-31, 2026 (the August Bank Holiday weekend), immerse yourself in Europe’s largest street festival, celebrating Caribbean culture. The carnival is a colorful and lively event that attracts millions of visitors each year.
Explore the Lake District National Park in Cumbria
Open year-round, the Lake District offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and picturesque villages, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its glacial ribbon lakes and rugged mountains.
Discover the Historic City of Bath
Year-round, Bath boasts Roman-built baths and Georgian architecture, offering a glimpse into England’s rich history. The city’s well-preserved Roman baths and the stunning Bath Abbey are must-visit attractions.
Attend the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London
From June 29 to July 12, 2026, witness world-class tennis at the prestigious Wimbledon Championships. While the Public Ballot remains the primary way to get tickets, the famous “Queue” will still be in full swing for those looking to snag ground passes on the day.
West End Theatre Highlights 2026
- The Mousetrap: Still running in its 74th year in 2026, it remains the world’s longest-running play and a staple of the London theatre scene.
- Catch the Latest Hits: While The Lehman Trilogy and Guys and Dolls had legendary runs, 2026 sees a new wave of highly anticipated openings at the Gillian Lynne and Bridge Theatres – keep an eye out for the latest revival of classic British dramas.
Experience the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
From August 7-29, 2026, enjoy a spectacular display of military bands and performers against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. The event is known for its grandeur and the stunning fireworks display that concludes each performance.
Explore the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland
Open year-round, the Giant’s Causeway features unique basalt column formations, a result of ancient volcanic activity. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Northern Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions.
Attend the Chelsea Flower Show in London
The Chelsea Flower Show showcases innovative garden designs and floral displays, attracting horticulture enthusiasts worldwide. It’s one of the most prestigious flower shows globally, organized by the Royal Horticultural Society. In 2026, the show is expected to place an even heavier emphasis on “rewilding” and climate-resilient urban gardening.
Visit Stonehenge in Wiltshire
Open year-round, Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument of standing stones, shrouded in mystery and history. It’s one of the most famous landmarks in the UK and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Experience the Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival
Expected in July 2026, indulge in a variety of culinary delights and beverages at this annual festival in Cardiff Bay. The event features local and international food stalls, live music, and entertainment.
Explore the Scottish Highlands
Open year-round, the Scottish Highlands offer breathtaking landscapes, historic castles, and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. The region is known for its rugged beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Bath Spa Town
Bath is a charming city known for its Roman-built baths and stunning Georgian architecture. A visit to the Roman Baths is a must; they’re open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. After exploring, you can relax at the Thermae Bath Spa, which offers natural thermal waters. The spa operates from 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM, with pools closing at 9:00 PM. Visit: Thermae Bath Spa
Explore Seashore
Weymouth is a delightful seaside town on the Jurassic Coast, famous for its sandy beaches and historic harbor. A visit to Nothe Fort provides panoramic views and a glimpse into the area’s military history. The fort is open daily from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
Nothe Fort Don’t miss the SEA LIFE Weymouth Aquarium, which offers a fascinating look at marine life. Opening hours vary, so it’s best to check their website before your visit.
Visit Jersey Island
Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands, offers a unique blend of British and French cultures. Explore the historic Elizabeth Castle, accessible by foot at low tide or via ferry. The castle is open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, but hours can vary with the seasons. The island’s beautiful beaches and mild climate make it a great destination year-round.
If you live in the UK or have visited, share your story or send us your favorite spots and tips at hello@localsinsider.com.
