The friendliest cities in the UK: 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards
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The United Kingdom has a reputation for its good manners, and while we may be biased, we would vouch for it as the home of some of the friendliest communities around. Up and down the country, you can find acts of genuine kindness which make cities beautiful both inside and out. It’s not just the overseas visitors who are won over by this charm either, as some cities may leave you considering whether to swap your holiday abroad for a cosy staycation.
For our 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards, we asked our readers to point out the places on our home turf where you can expect a warm reception. On our list, there are bustling metropolises, creative hubs and historic centres – all of which welcome you with open arms. Here are the friendliest cities across the UK as chosen by the people who know our four nations the best.
These are the friendliest cities in the UK, according to the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards.
Getty Images10. Birmingham. Score 80.00
As the setting for the hit crime series Peaky Blinders, it’s fair to say Birmingham has picked up a stereotype or two about its crowd. However, beyond the screens, this city is home to a cosmopolitan community which warmly welcomes people from all backgrounds. Diversity lies at the heart of Birmingham’s culture, influencing everything from contemporary galleries to Michelin-star restaurants.
Where to stay: Just 20 minutes from the centre, Hampton Manor is a sophisticated rural estate centred around gastronomy, with a cookery school, artisan bakery and two acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants all found onsite.
Getty Images9. Liverpool. Score 86.13
Stretched along the Mersey’s sweeping shore, Liverpool is a port city bursting with life, as locals here are wildly outgoing and good-humoured, not to mention fond of a great night out. Soak up this jolly atmosphere as you uncover the fascinating maritime history, eclectic galleries and legendary musical legacy of this patchwork city.
Where to stay: Hotels in Liverpool are masters at gracefully fusing old and new. Titanic Hotel, for instance, is a renovated Victorian warehouse, where nostalgic interiors complement state-of-the-art spa facilities.
Getty Images8. Manchester. Score 86.67
Once a world-leading industrial power, Manchester is now packed with pioneering art, dynamic nightlife and, best of all, warm people. For a true sense of the community, head to a pub on game day and witness flocks of passionate football fans descend. After all, if even Noel and Liam can be friendly, then anyone in this city can.
Where to stay: King Street Townhouse truly spoils its guests, with everything from a city-view pool on the seventh floor to a private cinema in the cellar. For a more modest stay, there’s a myriad of cosy Airbnbs in Manchester too.
Getty Images7. Belfast. Score 87.50
Despite its difficult past, Belfast has undergone a cultural renaissance in recent years, driven by the strong spirit of its people. The Metropolitan Arts Centre (MAC) is a highlight, showcasing the pinnacle of Belfast’s boundless imagination through its many exhibitions and shows. Don’t miss St George’s Market either, where hundreds of local vendors share their finest produce.
Where to stay: The Harrison offers sixteen Victorian chambers across its restored townhouse, each with its own quirky design, while The Merchant Hotel has also earned a reputation as one of the grandest hotels in Belfast.
Getty Images6. Bath. Score 89.41
As the name suggests, Bath is a seasoned wellness destination, famous for its spa heritage, which dates back to Roman times. The city centre is a sentimental step into the past, too, lined with creamy Georgian townhouses straight out of a Bridgerton scene. Plus, the peaceful air of its architecture seems to have rubbed off on the residents, as Bath’s community is one of the kindest around.
Where to stay: For an exceptional retreat, The Gainsborough and The Royal Crescent Hotel draw on the city’s historic bathing culture with their spas powered by thermal springs.
Getty Images5. York. Score 90.77
York may be Europe’s most haunted city, but its living people are anything but scary. The welcoming smiles and low crime rates here make for a perfect family trip, with plenty inside its ancient walls to keep all ages entertained. Choose from picturesque bike rides, iconic cuppas at Bettys Tea Rooms, or immersive tours at York’s Chocolate Story, revealing the secrets of chocolatier empires like Terry’s Chocolate Orange and KitKat.
Where to stay: A stone’s throw from the imposing York Minster, Grays Court has the best location of all hotels in York, as well as luscious gardens and rooms fit for royalty.
Getty Images4. Oxford. Score 90.91
Perhaps the world’s most famous university town, Oxford radiates with a youthful buzz that puts a spring in the step of all its visitors. Start your day by strolling – or punting – along the River Cherwell, followed by a lunch of award-winning pies, gourmet sandwiches and more in the quaint Covered Market. Marvel at Ashmolean Museum’s impressive collection before rounding it all off with a pint at The Bear Inn, Oxford’s oldest and cosiest pub.
Where to stay: The Randolph Hotel promises a delightful Oxford staycation, with its playful decor, swanky cocktail lounge and cutting-edge wellness centre.
Getty Images3. Edinburgh. Score 91.11
Earning a bronze medal for the second year in the row, Edinburgh consistently impresses our readers with its hospitality. The Scottish capital draws thousands of visitors each year for its iconic Edinburgh Fringe, the world’s largest performance arts festival and crown jewel in the city’s creative repertoire. There’s also a plethora of distinguished restaurants, artisan bakeries and chic bars, all brought to life by the warm spirit of their owners.
Where to stay: We love 100 Princes Street, a plush newcomer on the Edinburgh hotel scene with unrivalled views of Edinburgh castle.
Getty Images2. London. Score 93.00
To say the capital is chaotic is an understatement – but don’t be daunted by all the noise. Londoners are some of the most considerate people around, accepting and accommodating of all in its diverse community. Venture out of the Zone One bubble to find some of London’s best neighbourhoods and a true flavour of the ever-evolving culture. Follow the city’s straightforward, unwritten rules, and you’ll blend right in.
Where to stay: The past year has seen a star-studded list of new openings, including The Peninsula, Raffles London and Mandarin Oriental Mayfair. When it comes to hotels in London, guests have never been more spoiled for choice.
Getty Images1. Glasgow. Score 97.14
After a brief stint in fourth position last year, Glasgow reclaims its title as the UK’s friendliest city for 2024. The people here have an irresistible charm, not to mention enthusiastic imagination. While Edinburgh usually takes the spotlight, Glasgow is equally - if not more – talented in the arts. As the UK’s first UNESCO City of Music and Scottish base for institutions like ballet and theatre, this humble port city pulses with the energy of creatives and audiences alike.
Where to stay: From its dusky four-poster beds to ‘treat me like I’m famous’ service, House of Gods oozes with an extravagance like no other hotel in Glasgow.