If you live in the Uk, there's no need to go abroad to find beautiful hotels, fascinating culture and unique city breaks.  Likewise, if you're planning to visit England from abroad.  Here's 5 of the most intriguing UK cities to explore on your city break.

Bath

Bath is steeped in history and is a UNESCO World Heritage site - a must-see if you're into tales of the past.   Your first stop should, naturally, be the Thermae Bath Spa, where you can relax in the mineral-rich waters in an open-air rooftop pool.  Then, feeling all nicely relaxed, you can visit the Roman Baths, a monument dating back 2000 years.  Fans of Jane Austen will also be delighted at the Jane Austen Centre, which gives a fascinating glimpse into Regency life. 

Brighton

Brighton is a laid-back, fun, beachside city in East Sussex.  Walk along the beach while eating some traditional fish and chips and enjoy the traditional British seaside entertainment.  Brighton has bohemian charms tucked away in every street corner; North Laine is the offbeat fashion hub, and there is a huge artists' quarter to explore.  Don't forget to visit Brighton Pier, with it's old-school fairground, candyfloss and sticks of rock. Ride the Brighton Wheel to see the whole city! 

Manchester

Manchester is a jarring mix of old and new; if you're a fan of the modern, take a trip to the Imperial War Museum and the Lowry.  The Lowry is one of the most architecturally stunning buildings in the world, as well as being one of the must-see places for art lovers.  If you're into the old, then you have to visit the Royal Exchange Theatre to catch a production.  Head to Manchester during the proms and head for the Bridgewater Hall to see amazing classical musicians perform. 

Newcastle and Gateshead

If you're driving into Tyneside, don't miss an Instagram opportunity with the Angel of the North, as well as stopping off as Hadrian's wall, another World Heritage site.  Newcastle has beautiful architecture, especially in Grainger Town and the Art Deco Tyneside Cinema, which was built to show newsreels in 1937.  Theatre fans can catch productions at the Theatre Royal, where modern art lovers can see the latest paintings and works of art at the Baltic Centre. 

York 

York is a must-visit if you're a fan of Georgian architecture, as the city is full of it, along with Viking settlements, Victorian cobbled streets and Roman walls.  York Minster is the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe, The Jorvik Viking Centre is fascinating, with animatronic Viking displays, which was built on the excavated remains of a Viking village.  The world-famous Shambles has quirky little shops, and the quaint little street was once voted as Britain's most picturesque.