From innovative cutting-edge entertainment venues using groundbreaking technology to the latest food halls serving an array of global flavours, there has never been a more exciting time to discover Britain’s vibrant cities and lush countryside. Discover boundless inspiration for every journey, whether your heart yearns for a relaxing weekend retreat or a thrilling escapade. Find out why a trip to Britain should be on your bucket list for 2024.
Savor global flavours at Britain's newest food halls
Britain’s food hall scene is booming with more and more venues popping up all over the country. There is no better place to immerse yourself in a variety of international cuisines crafted by independent restaurants, all within a lively and vibrant ambiance.Discover the latest gems across the country, from the brand-new Arcade Food Hall at London’s new leisure destination Battersea Power Station to Sheffield's Cambridge Street Collective and Manchester's Shipyard, both opening in late 2023. In 2024, the modern dining concept, Boxhall, will open new venues in Bristol and London Liverpool Street. A similar venue, Boxpark will also open its doors in Liverpool, while the city of Bradford sees the opening of Darley Street Market.
Embark on a gourmet break
Experience the essence of Britain's local flavours while staying at one of the numerous hotels that boast award-winning restaurants. The Langdale Chase in Windermere, re-opening in autumn 2023, will deliver innovative British cuisine inspired by the Lake District at their 2 AA Rosettes rated restaurant. Aughton’s Moor Hall, just under an hour north of Liverpool by train, launches luxury lodges to provide the ultimate luxury foodie gateway from late 2023. Their restaurant holds two Michelin Stars and there are two other Michelin star restaurants close by, The Barn and So-lo.Check out these four newly acclaimed Michelin star hotel restaurants for your next trip. Alex Dilling's modern twist on French cuisine earned Hotel Café Royal in London a Michelin Star making it the perfect luxury stay for foodies in the capital. The Pass, located in Horsham in the stunning Sussex countryside, secured a Michelin star and 3 AA Rosettes, offering intimate dining within their historic walls. Gidleigh Park in Devon's mystical Dartmoor National Park boasts an extensive international wine cellar and a commitment to seasonal ingredients. Treat yourself to the cozy rooms of the Pentonbridge Inn, on the English-Scottish border. Enjoy their Dine and Stay package featuring an 8-course menu created with produce from their own garden.
Eco-conscious options for your next adventure
More and more travellers are picking eco-friendly places to stay, and there are new options to try in Britain. The Treehouse hotel chain is taking root in Manchester next spring re-purposing a former hotel. By giving a second life to pre-loved items to discouraging single-use, items they are trying to keep their footprint low.Nestled in the Pembrokeshire countryside of Wales, BlueStone National Park Resort introduced new platinum lodges in summer 2023. The resort is dedicated to benefiting the local community and protecting their unique environment. The 1 Hotel Mayfair in London offers eco-luxury since July 2023. The hotel provides electric cars for their residents to explore further afield, locally sourced and seasonal dining (including a zero-waste dinner), and harvested rainwater to reduce water usage.
Another must visit eco-friendly gem is TreeDwellers in the Cotswolds which launched in early 2023. The hotel provides a nature-immersed experience with treehouses designed to blend into the forest, featuring natural interiors and comforting amenities including roll top bathtubs and wood-burning fires.
As part of the celebrations of England’s ‘Year of the Coast’ and in honour of the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, England’s coast path has officially been renamed as the ‘King Charles III England Coast Path’. It is expected that the coastal path will be fully walkable by the end of 2024 – connecting communities around the English coast forming the longest national trail.
Bristol Zoo Project sees new developments starting in 2024 in the north of the city with strong emphasis on conversation and education. Whitehaven opens a brand-new coastal activity centre The Edge in spring 2024. Besides offering water sports and recreational facilities, it will also support coastal recreational activities and provide a community centre. A major new attraction expected to open in 2025 is the Eden Project Morecambe, delivered by the team behind the first Eden Project in Cornwall. Visitors can expect a mix of entertainment and education driving positive behavioural change while creating lasting memories.
The new BBC Earth Experience in London celebrates global biodiversity while promoting eco-consciousness. Visitors step into the natural world and explore our seven unique continents during the immersive experience. GOOD Stories in Food in Bristol has launched two new tours ‘Bristol Hotspots and Hidden Treasures’ and ‘Wine and Cheese Tasting in Cheddar Valley’, both highlighting independents creating the most delicious flavours in a sustainable way.
Indulge in pure luxury
London's luxury hotel scene is expanding rapidly, with exciting additions on the horizon. In the winter of 2024, The Other House Covent Garden will introduce 200 Club flats, accompanied by a public restaurant and a rooftop bar offering breathtaking views. In spring, the Hyatt will open their new Park Hyatt London River Thames, conveniently situated within walking distance of London's major tourist attractions. Additionally, Six Senses, renowned worldwide for its authentic, personal, and sustainable five-star hotels, is scheduled to unveil a new property in London in 2024.The BoTree, promising conscious luxury on Marylebone Lane, is scheduled to open in September 2023 and the Maybourne Hotel Group is adding the brand new Emory to their collection featuring a residents rooftop bar with unparalleled panoramic views of Hyde Park in winter 2023.
However, it's not just London that is witnessing a surge in luxury accommodation. Along the scenic shores of northern Cornwall, Una St Ives is set to greet guests in their upscale villas complete with private hot tubs from late 2023. Inspired by the adventures and tales of Scottish explorers, 100 Princes Street nestled in the cultural heart of Edinburgh will offer deluxe comfort starting from November 2023. The first Soho House members club in the North of England is set to open in spring 2024 in vibrant city of Manchester. Wildes Chester is planning to introduce an exquisite blend of boutique hotel meets luxury spa, and fine dining experience to the ancient city.
Delve into British culture and entertainment
Learn more about Britain’s diverse culture during your next trip. Celebrate the 200th anniversary of the first ever Cadbury shop at Cadbury World in Birmingham, where you can discover more about the brand's history and their chocolate-making process.Shop British and global brands at the Cotswolds Designer Outlet opening in spring 2024, featuring more than 90 fashion and lifestyle labels. The outlet's architecture is inspired by the region, offering more than just shopping, including food festivals, art exhibits, and music events. Another leisure destination that recently opened is the Battersea Power Station in London, housed in the iconic Grade II listed building. Their Lift 109 takes visitors high above the city providing 360-degree views of London’s skyline.
Stay at two innovative hotels reflecting Britain's culture new for 2024: art'otel Hoxton located in London's street art hub, showcasing incredible art including Banksy originals, and No.124 Kings Road in Brighton embracing the city's personality through art, design, and architecture.
Dive into Britain's theatrical scene with Birmingham Royal Ballet's ’The Sleeping Beauty' (21 Feb – 2 Mar 2024) or Hamilton (25 June – 31 August 2024) at the The Birmingham Hippodrome, celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2024. Watch the hit musical Wicked in Sunderland (24 Sept – 20 Oct 2024) or catch the hilarious Sister Act musical returning to the West End in March 2024.
Experience British comedy at The Late Shows event in Newcastle and Gateshead in May 2024. Visitors are invited to a culture crawl including open art studios, music performances and bizarre and intriguing interactive events. Embrace British Culture at the Brit Fest in Cheshire with top tier entertainment, tasty street food and celebrations of the finest of British tradition and culture.
Don’t miss Britain’s best festivals and sporting events
Throughout the whole year, Britain is offering an abundance of great events. On 15th March, The Gold Cup Centenary celebrating Cheltenham Festival’s greatest race horses and heroes will take place for the 100th time. One of the longest running literature festivals in the world, the Cheltenham Literature Festival will be celebrating its 75th anniversary in October 2024. Another literature themed event taking place next year is the Oxford Literary Festival (16 -24 March 2024) boasting partnerships with Netflix, the University of Oxford and the Financial Times.One event not to miss for classical musical lovers is the Bath Bach Festival celebrating the life of one the greatest composers from 15 until 17 February. For maritime enthusiasts, the Bristol Harbour Festival returning in July 2024 brings top tier entertainment, delicious street foods and a wide variety of water activities to the vibrant city.
Feel the thunderous excitement of one of the greatest horse races in Britain at the Randox Grand National, (11-13 April 2024) a fixture that echoes through Liverpool’s history. Follow the sound of rushing water and cheering crowds to find the perfect viewing spot for the Royal Henely Regatta featuring over 300 boat races from 2 until 7 July 2024. As we look ahead to summer 2025, the Orkney Island Games will offer a stunning fusion of inclusive athleticism against the backdrop of Scotland’s most captivating scenery.
See Britain light up during the winter months
During the winter months, Britain’s urban areas come alive with dazzling light displays showcasing great creativity. An unmissable lights event is Winter Lights at Canary Wharf taking place in London every January. Some of the most innovative light artists brighten up the area including some hands-on interactive exhibits.Bristol Light Festival returns from 2-11 February providing a platform for local, national and international artists to showcase the best in installation art. The new exciting annual light art festival Baylight Morecambe is taking over the beautiful Lancashire seafront from 15 – 17 February featuring artist from all over the world.
Explore Britain’s newest museums
2024 will see new additions to Britain's diverse museum scene. Opening early in the year, Blackpool's Showtown museum will be full of fun and entertainment while celebrating the entertainers who turned Blackpool into the home of show business. Perth Museum reopens in spring after a major re-development, highlighting artifacts and stories placing Perth and Kinross at the centre of Scotland’s story.Also in spring, The Museum of Shakespeare will open its doors in Shoreditch in London using AI to make visitors walk in one of Britain’s greatest writer’s footsteps. Leicester's Jewry Wall Museum will be transformed into an immersive hands-on experience using cutting-edge technology to tell visitors the Roman history of the city arriving by autumn 2024. While in 2025, the V&A East Storehouse at London's Olympic Park will offer an immersive experience combining object storage, learning spaces, and galleries.
Feel like a king or queen at Britain’s castles and palaces
Step into a world of timeless elegance and captivating heritage as you explore Britain’s exceptional castles and palaces in 2024. Discover the regal side of Norwich in summer 2024 visiting the reopened Norwich Castle after their major re-development. Cutting-edge projection and digital technology will immerse visitors in King Henry I's lavish Castle, revealing its untold stories and Norwich's medieval importance. Meanwhile, Raby Castle, reopening in late 2024, is undergoing redevelopment blending history and innovation. Visitors will be able to explore re-imagined gardens, stylish shops and taste local flavours quaintly housed inside the newly refurbished heritage buildings.Join the Lights. Camera. Action! tour at the stunning Blenheim Palace , visiting the top filming locations in Netflix’s Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, along with other memorable features such as Harry Potter. Known for their extensive events programme throughout the year, the palace will not disappoint in 2024. The live music event Nocturne Live will take over the castle grounds from 12 - 16 June and Blenheim Palace Flower Show is returning from 21 - 23 June, to name a few.
Britain shines on screen
Step through cinematic landscapes and marvel at the magical realism found only in Britain on and off screen. Often used as the stunning backdrop to regency epochs like Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice, Bath now sets the stage for a regency era re-imagined in the new adaptation of Wonka. The film will be on screen from December 2023. Raynor Winn’s inspiring memoir, ’The Salt Path’, will be coming to theatres in 2024. Discover the poignant beauty of a story brought to life against the stunning backdrop of the Cornish coast.Fall in love with Birmingham’s street art and love for creative industrial innovation in preparation for the release of the new Peaky Blinders film in late 2025. The film is shooting on location, in Birmingham’s newest filming venue, Digbeth studios. A new hub for multi-media projects, the studio has become home to some of the industries newest and most exciting film and TV productions.
Discover Britain’s secret to relaxation and wellness
It’s time to escape the hustle and bustle of live and find music, fitness and fun entangled in mindfulness events across Britain. Rebalance Bath – The Festival of Wellbeing, taking place form January 25 - 2 February, offers a chance to unwind in the serene setting of Bath, known for its healing waters and historic charm. Treat yourself to an immersive weekend in Britain’s scenic forests at the Feel Good Festival (7 - 9 June) in Cumbria. Soak up the peaceful atmosphere by enjoying farm fresh foods and energising entertainment. Discover the quieter side of London in summer 2024 at the Wellnergy Festival, offering an exciting line-up of international DJs, local street food vendors and ample fitness courses from martial arts to Barre.Look forward to 2025 when Therme Manchester will open up. The one-of-a-kind relaxation resort will offer guests an all-season indoor beach, access to over 30 sauna & steam rooms, water slides, and pools.
Enjoy inclusive events celebrating Britain's diversity
Embark on a culturally immersive journey in 2024 and discover Britain’s dynamic array of events and exhibitions demonstrating commitment to inclusivity and diversity. At the Tate London, 'Women in Revolt' (8 Nov 2023 - 7 Apr 2024) celebrates the inspiring work of women enabling change and inclusivity. Commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Caribbean Carnival in Preston, in spring 2024, an extraordinary testament to the vibrant heritage that enriches Britain. Another exciting event with captivating rhythms is Notting Hill Carnival, occurring in August 2024.Feel the rhythmic heartbeat of Africa Oye in Liverpool in summer 2024, a celebration of African music and culture that echoes alongside the continent. While Wales’ annual Pride Cymru (22-23 Jun 2024) event in Cardiff attracts over 50,000 people each year. Celebrated in London every year during August, UK Black Pride is one of Europe’s largest events for the African, Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin American and Caribbean-heritage LGBTQIA+ community. Attend the vibrant four-day extravaganza Manchester Pride celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community from 23 - 26 August.
For film enthusiasts, London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival BFI Flare 2024 is returning in March 2024. Held every October, the annual Iris Prize Festival is Cardiff’s queer alternative to Cannes showcasing LGBTQIA+ short films and panel discussions, filmmaker Q&A’s and legendary parties which are not to be missed.
Move to the rhythm at Manchester’s newest entertainment venues
Witness the extraordinary new entertainment destinations that will redefine Britain's cultural landscape. The new flagship cultural centre, Aviva Studios - home of Factory International, fully opening in October 2023, emerges as the North's beacon of creativity showcasing a symphony of arts from concerts and theatre to major exhibitions. Another noteworthy new opening in Manchester is Diecast. The venue blends food, culture, and community together in a former metals factory. Britain’s foremost pioneering, purpose-driven arena Co-op Live is set to open in April 2024 in the city. Partnering with Manchester-born Harry Styles the remarkable venue will have sustainability at its core and the venue will be fully accessible to be able welcome everyone to their events.Outside of Manchester, Bristol's YTL Arena is expected to open in late 2025. Born from the iconic Brabazon Hangars that once housed the Concorde, the arena is set to be the nation's third-largest one elevating Bristol to a global hub of live music. Their vision is to create Europe’s most sustainable arena and be carbon neutral from day one.
* VisitBritain
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