Long weekend in Ibiza? Check. A few wild nights in Amsterdam? Check. How about a city break in the UK for a change? Here are three urban destinations on our own soil worth a visit this summer if you’re feeling like a staycation.
EDINBURGH
Who should go?: Whisky aficionados and culture vultures.
See: Climb Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views over the city and stay for wine, sunset and stargazing. For a maze of outdoor artwork, visit 100-acre sculpture park Jupiter Artland on the grounds of a Jacobean manor house.
Eat: Award-winning Timberyard uses local ingredients and ticks the trendy box with its wood-burning stove and converted warehouse location.
Drink: Craft beer is big here. Bow Bar has an extensive bottled beer menu including a great selection of local brews. It is said that “The man who drinks Scotch lives life to the hilt.” The crème de la crème is Scotch at The Balmoral Hotel.
Sleep: The bold boutique hotel G&V Royal Mile has a cool bar, helpful staff, colourful interiors and a central location.
BELFAST
Who should go?: History buffs and those who want a good night out.
See: Take a West Belfast Mural, tour for insight into The Troubles from a guide who lived through the conflict. Stop at Ulster Museum for an art fix. It’s in the Botanical Gardens, so make time for a stroll around the grounds.
Eat: Book in advance for traditional Irish supper on a classy barge at family-run Holohan’s.
Drink: Tip back a gin and tonic at the Victorian-era, mahogany-carved bar of Crown Liquor Saloon, owned by the National Trust. For a comedy show or a top night out with live bands playing rock n’ roll, it’s local favourite The Belfast Empire.
Sleep: Finish the night with jazz and whiskey at Merchant, one of the world’s best hotel bars, before staggering up to your room.
MANCHESTER
Who should go?: Football fans and foodies.
See: Visit the National Football Museum and see the football used in England’s 1966 World Cup victory. Go to a gig, the city boasts no fewer than five major music venues. Explore the trendy, creative Northern Quarter – Manchester’s answer to London’s Shoreditch.
Eat: This city excels at street food. Try a three-cheese toastie on sourdough at Northern Soul or crowd favourite Pancho’s Burritos.
Drink: Head to Cask and choose a bottle of pale ale from Tickety Brew – one of 42 local breweries.
Sleep: For five-star service, rest your eyes at Batman-inspired, art deco Hotel Gotham.
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