8 of the Friendliest Towns in the UK
As the nation that’s home to the English, Scottish, Welsh, and Irish (the latter in Northern Ireland), it’s little wonder that the United Kingdom has some of the friendliest people you’re likely to meet anywhere in the West. While you’ll of course find them in the country’s bigger cities, you’ll find the smaller towns in the UK to be among the best places to visit for those who really want to get to know the locals.
To experience the very best of the country’s awesome hospitality, check out our list of the eight friendliest towns in the UK for ideas and inspiration.
Keswick, Cumbria
There’s an old adage about the UK that the friendliest places to visit with the friendliest people are to be found “up North.” Pay a visit to lovely Keswick in the north of England's beautiful Lake District region and you’ll know it’s true. Renowned for its friendly atmosphere, Keswick serves as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts outdoor enthusiasts and fans of beautiful scenery from far and wide.
Derwentwater, affectionately known as the "Queen of the Lakes," is one of Keswick’s top attractions and is just a short walk from the town center. Lakeshore paths provide idyllic settings for strolls and picnics, with spectacular views of the surrounding Fells. Keswick is also known for its traditional market, held in the town square since the 13th century. Theatre By The Lake, located on the shores of Derwentwater, offers a diverse program of plays and music events, while the Keswick Museum and Art Gallery provides insights into the town's past.
Llandudno, Conwy
Llandudno is a picturesque town in North Wales that has been a popular seaside destination since Victorian times. Set between two headlands known as Great and Little Ormes, Llandudno’s history dates back to the Stone Age, with the area's Great Orme Mines being among the world's oldest copper mines.
More recent attractions include the Great Orme Tramway, Britain's only remaining cable-operated street tramway. Opened in 1902, it continues to provide journeys to the summit of Great Orme where you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and the Irish Sea. Take a stroll along Llandudno Promenaded to Llandudno Pier, a quintessential seaside experience dating back to Victorian times. Stop for a friendly beverage (alcoholic or not) and sit and chat with other tourists as happy to be here as you are.
Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire
No list of friendly places to visit in Southwest England would be complete without including a charming Cotswolds town. One of our favorites is Tewkesbury, a medieval market town popular for its well-preserved Tudor buildings and historical attractions like the 12th-century Tewkesbury Abbey, famous for having one of the tallest Norman towers in England.
The town's layout remains much as it was during medieval times, and a walk through its streets reveals a host of half-timbered buildings with overhanging upper stories and narrow alleyways. You can get a flavor of what life was once like here during the Tewkesbury Medieval Festival which commemorates the Battle of Tewkesbury in 1471. Re-enactments, a medieval market, and various entertainment attract not just visitors but friendly locals out for a good time.
Stirling, Stirlingshire
Stirling should be well-known to anyone who has a drop of Scottish blood in them. Dominating the town’s skyline, Stirling Castle has for centuries been a symbol of national pride and a focal point of Scottish history. Perched on a craggy volcanic rock, the castle has served as both a royal residence and a fortress and played a central role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. Its halls have also witnessed the coronation of several Scottish monarchs, including Mary, Queen of Scots.
Another key historical site is the Wallace Monument, a towering tribute to William Wallace, a key figure in Scotland's fight for independence. Visitors can climb the monument to view artifacts related to this Scottish hero, including the legendary Wallace Sword, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Stirling landscape. The Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre is another must-visit and brings to life the story of the 1314 battle where Robert the Bruce defeated King Edward II's army, a pivotal event in the Scottish struggle for independence.
Looe, Cornwall
The picturesque Cornish coastal town of Looe is well-known among English day-trippers for its beauty, charm, and friendly locals. Divided by the River Looe into East and West Looe, the town is connected by a bridge that makes for a wonderful photo. The town’s crowning glory, though, is Looe Beach, a glorious stretch of golden sand that’s safe for swimming and ideal for families.
Adjacent to the beach is bustling Looe Harbour where you can watch fishing boats unloading their catch of the day. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, book a cruise to Looe Island. Accessible by a short boat trip, this island sanctuary is a must for birdwatchers and offers walking trails with spectacular views of the coastline. For a historical excursion, the Old Guildhall Museum and Gaol offers insights into Looe’s past, housing artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the town’s development and maritime history.
Warwick, Warwickshire
Warwick’s rich in history and heritage can best be experienced in its magnificent castle. Warwick Castle dates back to William the Conqueror who commissioned its construction in 1068. Visit today and you’ll get to see its towers, dungeons, and beautifully landscaped gardens, an experience that’s even better when you factor in medieval re-enactments, falconry displays, immersive exhibitions, and opportunities to interact with friendly costumed staff and volunteers.
Other highlights include a visit to the Warwick Market Place where a traditional market takes place to this day. For a taste of local history, the Warwickshire Museum, located in the Market Hall, is worth a visit, offering insights into the region's natural history and archaeology. St. Mary’s Church is also worth seeing for its medieval Beauchamp Chapel, which houses the tomb of Richard Beauchamp, Earl of Warwick.
Lyndhurst, Hampshire
The pretty town of Lyndhurst is a great jumping-off point from which to explore Hampshire’s New Forest. Highlights of a visit include the New Forest Museum and Visitor Centre, an informative museum that offers insights into the history and management of the region, including its famous wild ponies. Once a royal hunting ground, New Forest National Park is crisscrossed with walking and cycling trails, making it perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors.
St. Michael and All Angels Church is another notable landmark in Lyndhurst and is visited for the grave of Alice Liddell, the inspiration for Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland. Nearby Beaulieu National Motor Museum is another must-visit and houses a vast collection of vintage cars. You can also tour the old manor home here.
Knaresborough, Yorkshire
Located in North Yorkshire, Knaresborough’s picturesque setting on the River Nidd is enhanced by an engineering feat known as the Knaresborough Viaduct. This impressive structure, with its series of tall arches spanning the river, provides a breathtaking backdrop for photographs and is a testament to Victorian engineering.
Other top attractions include the ruins of Knaresborough Castle and Mother Shipton's Cave. One of England's oldest tourist attractions, the cave is famous for its petrifying well where left objects literally turn to stone. If you enjoy outdoor activities, the Nidd Gorge offers scenic walking trails along the river.
The Final Word
When it comes to wanting to meet friendly people on your travels, you can’t do much better than paying a visit to the UK. Whether you spend time in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, you’ll find the United Kingdom is home to some of the friendliest people and places on the planet. Learn more from this list of the eight friendliest towns
