A car-free holiday in the UK can be a delightful experience, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and local culture without the hassle of driving and parking. Here’s a roundup of some of the best towns and cities in the UK for a pedestrian-friendly getaway:
Cambridge
Cambridge is a quintessential English city where the charm of history meets the vibrancy of academic life. The city’s layout is a tapestry of quaint cobbled streets, architectural marvels, and verdant spaces, all of which are best appreciated at a leisurely walking pace. The University of Cambridge, with its storied colleges, dominates the landscape, and visitors can wander through the hallowed halls where luminaries once roamed.
For a different perspective, punting along the River Cam offers serene views of the College ‘Backs’, and is a must-do activity. The city’s emphasis on cycling means that you can easily rent a bike and join the locals in pedalling around town. Cambridge’s market square is a focal point for local life, where stalls have been trading since the middle ages, offering everything from fresh produce to artisanal crafts. This all feeds into the city’s fine restaurant scene, which is one of the UK’s best, in our humble opinion.
Why it’s great for a car-free holiday:
- Compact city centre: Cambridge is renowned for its historic university and the city centre is compact, making it perfect for exploring on foot.
- Cycling culture: It’s also known as a bicycle-friendly city with numerous bike hire schemes.
- Punting: For a unique experience, you can take a punt along the River Cam.
Key attractions:
- The historic colleges of Cambridge University
- The Fitzwilliam Museum
- The Backs (a picturesque area behind the colleges)
Travel tip: Use the Park & Ride services if you’re coming from outside the city to avoid city centre traffic.
Bath
Famous across the world, Bath is a city that exudes Georgian elegance and Roman history. Its honey-coloured buildings and the well-preserved Roman Baths transport visitors back in time. The city is a showcase of neoclassical Palladian architecture set amidst rolling Somerset hills. The compact nature of Bath makes it ideal for exploring the grandeur of the Royal Crescent, the Circus, and Pulteney Bridge on foot.
The Bath Abbey and the Thermae Bath Spa, where you can bathe in naturally heated spring waters, are also within easy walking distance. The city’s cultural scene is vibrant, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year, and its culinary offerings range from traditional tea rooms to modern gastronomic delights. Bath’s pedestrian-friendly streets and squares invite leisurely exploration, and the surrounding countryside offers ample opportunities for scenic walks.
Why it’s great for a car-free holiday:
- Walkable city centre: Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage site with most of its main attractions within walking distance.
- Good public transport: Efficient bus services connect you to nearby areas of interest.
Key attractions:
- The Roman Baths
- Bath Abbey
- The Royal Crescent
Travel tip: Consider purchasing a Bath Visitor Card for discounts on attractions and tours.
Read: What to do on your weekend city break in Bath
York
A city that feels like a living museum, York is rich in history and steeped in medieval charm. Enclosed by its ancient walls, York’s network of snickelways and thoroughfares are a delight to explore on foot. The Shambles, a narrow, timber-framed street, often evokes comparisons to Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter series and is a favourite among visitors. York Minster towers over the city and is a masterpiece of stained glass and stone.
The city’s museums and attractions, such as the Jorvik Viking Centre, provide immersive experiences into York’s Viking past. The River Ouse offers scenic riverside walks and boat trips, while the city’s café culture and traditional pubs provide ample resting spots to watch the world go by. York’s charm lies in its ability to blend its rich history with a lively contemporary and culinary scene.
Why it’s great for a car-free holiday:
- Pedestrian-friendly streets: The city centre is enclosed by medieval walls and is largely pedestrianised.
- Rail connections: York is well-connected by train, making it accessible without a car.
Key attractions:
- York Minster
- The Shambles
- National Railway Museum
Travel tip: York is famous for its walking tours, including ghost walks that offer a unique way to explore the city.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is a city of dramatic contrasts; it pairs neoclassical grace with rugged natural beauty. The city’s topography, with its hills and crags, provides a unique urban landscape that is best navigated on foot. The Royal Mile, a succession of streets forming the main thoroughfare of the Old Town, leads from the imposing Edinburgh Castle down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along the way, visitors can explore a myriad of alleyways, courtyards, and hidden gems.
The annual Edinburgh Fringe transforms the city into a cultural hub with performances and art in every corner – keep your eye out for posters, flyers and more, advertising last minute events and secret sets.
For those seeking respite from the urban buzz, a hike up to Arthur’s Seat offers a panoramic vista of the city and beyond. The historic port of Leith, now a vibrant waterfront district, is easily accessible by bus or tram and offers excellent dining, from Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy pubs, alongside maritime heritage attractions. Edinburgh’s compact city centre, combined with its excellent public transport, makes it an ideal destination for a car-free holiday.
Why it’s great for a car-free holiday:
- Compact city: Edinburgh’s city centre is compact and easy to navigate on foot.
- Public transport: An excellent bus and tram system can take you further afield, including to the beach at Portobello.
Key attractions:
- Edinburgh Castle
- The Royal Mile
- Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views
Travel tip: Purchase an Edinburgh Pass for free entry to many attractions and unlimited use of the city’s hop-on-hop-off tour buses.
Oxford
The ‘City of Dreaming Spires’, Oxford, is synonymous with its prestigious university. The city’s academic institutions have nurtured some of the greatest minds in history, and their influence is evident in the city’s cultured atmosphere. Oxford’s pedestrian-friendly streets are lined with historic buildings, from the Bodleian Library to the various colleges, each with its own tales and traditions. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that reveal the city’s secrets and stories.
Beyond academia, Oxford’s covered market, independent shops, and eateries offer a bustling, vibrant atmosphere. The city’s green spaces, like Christ Church Meadow, provide picturesque settings for picnics or leisurely strolls. Oxford’s emphasis on cycling also makes it a breeze to get around, with numerous bike paths and rental options available.
Why it’s great for a car-free holiday:
- Walkable city centre: Like Cambridge, Oxford’s city centre is small and pedestrian-friendly.
- Cycling: Cycling is a popular mode of transport, with many places to hire bikes.
Key attractions:
- The historic Oxford University colleges
- The Bodleian Library
- The Ashmolean Museum
Travel tip: Take a guided walking tour to learn about the city’s rich history and hidden gems.
Brighton
Brighton is a seaside town with a bohemian spirit and a reputation for inclusivity and fun. The city’s waterfront is dominated by the iconic Brighton Pier, offering traditional seaside entertainment. The pebbled beach and seafront promenade are perfect for a stroll, with art installations and beachfront cafes along the way. Brighton’s cultural scene is eclectic, with the Brighton Festival and Brighton Pride being key highlights of the social calendar.
The Royal Pavilion, with its Indian-inspired architecture and Regency grandeur, stands as a testament to the town’s flamboyant history. The Lanes, a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, are filled with vintage boutiques, jewellers, and independent shops, making it a treasure trove for shoppers and explorers alike. Brighton’s compact nature and vibrant street life make it an ideal destination for a car-free holiday.
Why it’s great for a car-free holiday:
- Compact nature: Brighton is easy to explore on foot, with the main attractions close to each other.
- Beachfront: The seafront and famous Brighton Pier are perfect for leisurely strolls.
Key attractions:
- The Royal Pavilion
- Brighton Pier
- The Lanes for shopping and dining
Travel tip: Brighton is known for its vibrant nightlife; plan your accommodation within walking distance to enjoy it fully.
St Ives, Cornwall
Arguably Cornwall’s most picturesque coastal town, St Ives renowned for its artistic heritage and stunning beaches. The town’s narrow, winding streets are flanked by whitewashed cottages and lead to hidden squares and secret spots. St Ives has long been a magnet for artists, and this is reflected in the numerous galleries, including the Tate St Ives, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.
The town’s beaches, such as Porthmeor, are perfect for relaxing, surfing, or simply watching the sunset. Coastal walks around St Ives offer breathtaking views and connect to the South West Coast Path, providing opportunities for longer hikes. The town’s culinary scene boasts fresh seafood and local Cornish delicacies. St Ives’ compact size and pedestrianised areas make it a joy to explore without a car.
Why it’s great for a car-free holiday:
- Small size: St Ives is a small town that’s easily navigable on foot.
- Scenic walks: Enjoy coastal walks with stunning views of the Cornish coastline.
Key attractions:
- Beautiful beaches like Porthmeor Beach
- Tate St Ives
- Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
Travel tip: St Ives can get very busy in summer, so consider visiting in the shoulder seasons for a quieter experience.
Chester
Chester is a city where the past and the present coexist harmoniously. Its unique ‘Rows’ are two-tiered medieval galleries that now house shops and cafes, offering a shopping experience like no other. The city is encircled by Roman walls, which provide a fascinating walking route with views into the heart of the city and beyond. Chester’s Roman amphitheatre and the Gothic-style Chester Cathedral are testaments to the city’s rich tapestry of history.
The River Dee offers a tranquil escape with pleasant riverside walks and boat trips, while Chester Zoo is a short bus ride away and is one of the UK’s most popular wildlife attractions. The city’s compact nature and pedestrianised centre make it ideal for visitors who prefer to explore on foot. Chester’s charm is found in its ability to preserve its history while offering a contemporary urban experience.
Why it’s great for a car-free holiday:
- Pedestrian-friendly: Chester’s historic centre is encircled by Roman walls and is pedestrianised.
- River cruises: Take a leisurely cruise on the River Dee.
Key attractions:
- Chester Rows (two-tiered medieval galleries)
- Chester Cathedral
- Chester Zoo (accessible by bus)
Travel tip: Walk the full circuit of the city walls to get a unique perspective of Chester.
Staying Safe On Your Car-Free Adventure
While exploring the UK’s pedestrian-friendly towns and cities is generally very safe, it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busy areas.
Here are a few simple tips:
- Watch for cyclists: Many of these cities have popular cycling cultures, so keep an eye out for bike lanes and cyclists, particularly in Cambridge and Oxford.
- Pedestrian crossings: Always use designated crossings and look both ways, even on pedestrianised streets where occasional delivery vehicles may pass through.
- Uneven surfaces: Historic cobbled streets and ancient pathways can be charming but uneven – wear comfortable, supportive footwear.
- Know your rights: Should you need to make an accident claim if an incident were to happen, pedestrian accidents are typically straightforward to report. Keep a note of any details, take photos if possible, and seek medical attention if needed.
With sensible precautions, your car-free getaway will be nothing but enjoyable exploring and wonderful memories.
The Bottom Line
Remember, the UK is well-served by public transport, and many of its historic towns and cities were built long before the advent of the car, making them naturally suited to exploring on foot or by other car-free means. What’s not to like?
But if you do fancy exploring with some wheels underneath you, then check out our guide on 8 of the UK’s best one day motorbike trips next.
