The most beautiful places in the UK have been named, with several spots up north elbowing their way onto the list.
From mystical caves in the Lake District to the Mediterranean-style architecture in… Wales… there are so many stunning places to explore on our doorstep.
Time Out’s list of the 15 most beautiful places in the UK, compiled by travel writers, has picked out ‘pinch-me’ destinations across the nation.
Several of the places chosen are within a couple of hours’ drive of Manchester, too, so you really don’t have far to go to seek out the very best of the British isles.
One spot that was well-deserving of a mention is Portmeirion, a popular village in North Wales that’s famous for its colourful architecture.
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The village is the brainchild of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis and was inspired by the Mediterranean, which is plain to see in the colourful buildings and palm trees jutting out from an otherwise very British scene,
The tourist hotspot completed in 1975 and Time Out says it’s ‘like something out of a dream’.
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Portmeirion village in North Wales has been named one of the most beautiful places in the UK. Credit: Unsplash Karen CannShambles in York. Credit: Unsplash, Karl Moran
The guide said: “This unique tourist village has established itself as the most romantic spot in north Wales.
“Of course, it certainly helps if it comes with Italianate architecture, colourful facades and an unforgettable sense of romance. How could you not fall for Portmeirion?”
Another spot in the north of England that has been named one of the most beautiful places in the UK is Rydal Caves, tucked in the heart of the Lake District.
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Now us Mancs know that nowhere in the country can compare to the majestic scenes right across the national park, but there is something really special about the dramatic cave system.
Located right between Grasmere and Ambleside, they’re accessible in just a 15 minute walk from the nearest car park.
Rydal Caves in the Lake District made Time Out’s list of the Most Beautiful Places. Credit: Unsplash, Jonny Gios
You can leap across stepping stones all the way to the back of the cave, then look back out at the surrounding woodland through the cave’s huge entrance.
This spot was chosen by Netflix for scenes of the second season of The Witcher – told you it was magical.
Over in Yorkshire (and it’s a surprise to no one to see this on the list), is The Shambles in York.
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The well-preserved medieval street features ramshackle buildings, cobbled street, and quaint little shops, and again looks like something straight out of a storybook.
Skipping over its gory past, Time Out said: “There are few easier, more atmospheric ways to transport yourself back hundreds of years (without the iffy smells and sights) than a stroll down Shambles.”
You can paddle a canoe down a Greater Manchester canal to a floating cafe and bar
Daisy Jackson
Fancy swapping the city streets for a few hours on the water?
Just a short tram ride from Manchester city centre is a spot where you can hire a canoe, kayak or paddleboard, and explore the beautiful Bridgewater Canal from a completely different perspective.
Tucked away down the stairs by The King’s Ransom pub, Grip Adventures has been part of Sale for the past four years.
Whether you’re after a relaxed paddle in the sunshine, a fun day out with friends, or a family activity, there’s something for everyone.
You can choose from single canoes, kayaks and paddleboards, or hire a double canoe if you’d rather explore as a group.
One of the best parts is that the canal is lined with great places to stop.
Paddling along the Bridgewater CanalStunning scenery along the Bridgewater CanalBaby ducklings spotted from the canoeGrip Adventure is right on the canal in SaleFloating cafe Walton PerkThe canoes parked up outside the Kings Ransom pub in Sale
Walton Perk sits right on the water, making it the perfect halfway coffee break. As well as coffees and cakes, you can even pick up a takeaway Aperol Spritz from here – without even setting foot outside your boat.
If you’re visiting on a Monday or Tuesday when it’s closed, Grapefruit Coffee is just across the road, so you can grab a takeaway before heading down to the canal.
Grip Adventure is run by Glenn Rees, who has spent more than 20 years leading outdoor adventure camps and is passionate about making the outdoors accessible to everyone.
Alongside paddle hire, Glenn also delivers alternative education and outdoor learning programmes, works with Trafford Young Carers, and even runs land-based adventure games around the canal.
You really don’t have to travel far to enjoy an idyllic day on the water. In fact, one of Greater Manchester’s best summer days out has been hiding in plain sight just along the Bridgewater Canal.
Inside Dakota, the luxurious new hotel at Manchester Airport
Daisy Jackson
There’s a new hotel at Manchester Airport, and this one is all about luxury.
If the Dakota name sounds familiar, it’ll probably be from its city centre hotel, which has become a favourite with A-list celebrities and discerning travellers alike.
Now, the luxury hotel brand has opened its second Manchester location, this time just moments from the airport.
Designed to be ‘the destination before the destination’, Dakota Manchester Airport is aiming to redefine what an airport hotel can be.
The £54 million development features 154 elegant bedrooms and suites, all finished with the brand’s signature dark, sophisticated interiors and premium design details.
Just like its city centre counterpart, guests can expect a stylish bar and restaurant at the heart of the hotel. The Grill serves premium steaks, indulgent sides and an extensive wine list in an art deco-inspired setting complete with leather booths and a striking central bar.
And just like in town, there are plenty of luxury touches and details at Dakota Manchester Airport for guests to take advantage of.
The beautiful bar area at Dakota Manchester AirportThe Grill restaurantThe Grill restaurantA dedicated chauffere service to take you to your terminalAn example of the bedrooms at Dakota Manchester Airport
That includes the UK’s only hotel-operated valet parking service at an airport hotel, with the Dakota team looking after your car while you’re away.
There’s also a chauffeur service running 24 hours a day to take guests directly to their terminal, as well as private dining rooms, a cigar terrace and humidor, making it feel more like a luxury city hotel than somewhere to stay before an early flight.
Matt Townley, Group Operations Director, said: “Receiving the keys to Dakota Manchester Airport is an incredibly proud moment for everyone involved in the project and marks the beginning of the final phase ahead of opening.
“Over the coming weeks, our focus will be on the continued development of our award-winning team and culture to ensure every touchpoint of the guest experience is delivered with the service and attention to detail that Dakota is known for.”
Daisy Jackson -
17th May 2024 
