26 May 2024 , 08:00
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Exploring a city on foot is one of the most immersive and rewarding ways to get to know it.
Walking allows you to experience the city at a natural pace, giving you time to absorb the sights, sounds, and smells that define its character. As you stroll through different neighborhoods, you can discover hidden gems that aren't mentioned in guidebooks - charming cafes, bustling markets, and quiet parks where locals gather. Each step provides a chance to notice the intricate details of the city's architecture, the diversity of its people, and the rhythm of daily life.
Walking also encourages spontaneous exploration. Without the constraints of a vehicle or public transportation, you can easily venture down intriguing alleyways or follow the sound of music to a street performance. These unplanned detours often lead to the most memorable experiences and authentic encounters with the local culture. Whether it's stumbling upon a vibrant street art mural, chatting with a friendly shopkeeper, or finding a quaint bookshop, these moments create a deeper connection to the city.
Many of us enjoy exploring on foot, but which of the UK's cities do we think are the most walkable? A study from the expert team at Preply found the UK's most walkable cities by looking at the distance between major attractions, the time it takes to travel between them and the number of steps needed.
And its top ten put the beautiful historical city of Oxford at number one, with Brighton pipped to number 2 and York in third. The rest of the top ten was made up of Bristol, London, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Manchester, Cambridge and Bath.
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All wonderful choices, of course, but we wanted to know which cityMirror readers deemed the most walkable - with you putting a pleasant surprise as your number one!
10. Bristol - 28 votes
The Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol (Getty Images)Bristol is one of the UK's most walkable cities with its major attractions all within 3.5 miles. The city's former port is home to the SS Great Britain Museum and several art galleries making it a great place to start on a city break in Bristol.
9. Brighton - 31 votes
Brighton beach (Getty Images)One of the UK's top seaside staycations, Brighton is also one of the UK's most walkable cities. Its main attractions are just over 1.5 miles from each other and it'll take tourists just over half an hour to visit them all. Make sure to visit the Royal Pavilion for a quirky bit of British architecture.
8. Manchester - 39 votes
An aerial view over the city centre of Manchester (Getty Images)Manchester's main attractions are just under six miles distance from each other and it would take under two hours to visit them all. Don't miss the city's art gallery or the John Rylands Library.
7. Cambridge - 51 votes
Cambridge city centre (Getty Images)One of the UK's most iconic university cities, Cambridge's main attractions were over two hours' walk from each other. However, if you stick to exploring the university, the city is fairly easy to explore on foot.
6. London - 82 votes
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A big as London is, a lot can be covered on foot (PA Archive/PA Images)As large as it is, the Big Smoke landed just outside your top five most walkable cities. Its top-rated attractions were within five miles walk of each other. The capital also has plenty of pedestrian zones for tourists to explore.
If you can't see the poll, click here
5. Oxford - 95 votes
An aerial view of Oxford city centre (Rex)Another delightful city to stroll around is Oxford. The university city's main attractions are just over a mile apart and it'll take tourists just over 20 minutes to visit them all. Don't miss the Bodleian Library, the Pitt Rivers Museum or the university buildings.
4. Liverpool - 123 votes
Liverpool's landmarks (Getty Images)Liverpool landed just inside your top five. The city's main attractions are all within five miles of each other. Known as the birthplace of The Beatles, the city is much more than that and is even home to the UK's coolest neighbourhood.
3. Bath - 138 votes
Pulteney Bridge, the main tourist attraction in BathBath might be pretty but it wasn't enough to be your number one. The city's main attractions were almost seven miles from each other. However, Bath's charming streets are well designed for pedestrians and you can always factor in a Bath bun stop for a well-deserved break.
2. Edinburgh - 165 votes
Edinburgh (Getty Images)The Scottish capital is one of the UK's most walkable cities with its major attractions just over five and a half miles from each other. Although hiking to the top of Arthur's Seat is one of the best things to do there, it's not quite as easy as many imagine so make sure you're prepared.
1. York - 323 votes
York Minster (Getty Images)York was named Mirror readers' most walkable UK city, with its main attractions just over two miles apart.
An historic city steeped in history and charm, it is one of England's most beautiful and captivating destinations. Nestled in North Yorkshire, York seamlessly blends its rich heritage with a vibrant contemporary culture. As you wander through its narrow, cobblestone streets, you are transported back in time, surrounded by well-preserved medieval architecture and ancient city walls that tell tales of an intriguingly storied past.
At its heart stands the magnificent York Minster, one of the largest and most stunning Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. Its impressive stained glass windows and intricate stonework a testament to the craftsmanship of the era. Climbing the central tower rewards you with breathtaking views of the cityscape, stretching out towards the picturesque countryside.
The Shambles, York's famous medieval street, is another highlight, with its overhanging timber-framed buildings and quaint shops. This atmospheric thoroughfare, once home to butchers and now filled with unique boutiques and cafes, captures the essence of York's timeless appeal. Nearby, the bustling Shambles Market offers a delightful array of local produce, crafts, and street food, making it a favourite spot for both locals and visitors.
Beyond its historical allure, York boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene. The city's numerous museums, including the Jorvik Viking Centre and the National Railway Museum, provide fascinating insights into its diverse heritage. Festivals and events throughout the year, such as the York Food and Drink Festival and the York Literature Festival, celebrate the city's creative spirit and community.
It's fair to say that every corner holds a story, and every visit feels like a journey through time. Its blend of history, beauty, and modern vibrancy make it a city that enchants and inspires all who visit. No wonder it topped our poll! And make sure to stop at one of the city's famous chocolate treats for a tasty snack after all that walking ...
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