The United Kingdom has long been more than a travel destination for people in Bahrain considering it a place for education, business ties, cherished memories or even centuries-old diplomatic relations.

World-famous landmarks like Big Ben and the Tower of London are popular among tourist spots for their rich history, whilst traditions such as afternoon tea endure for eternity. However, there are plenty of lesser-known spots that will appeal to both first-time and regular tourists alike. Shrishtii Shah takes an in-depth look into what the UK offers.

1. The Countryside Calling: Beyond the Cities
While the bustle of London will never lose its magic, the soul of the UK oftentimes finds itself in the quieter corners. A couple of hours by train from the capital, the Cotswolds offer a postcard-perfect escape into honey-stone villages, rolling hills and postcard villages like Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water. Think of it as Britain’s take on slow living – with retro bookshops, cosy gastropubs and Saturday morning farmer’s markets that transport you to a Jane Austen novel.

For nature lovers, Cumbria’s Lake District is a haven of peaceful lakes, mountain peaks and walking trails that inspired Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth. Take a boat trip on Lake Windermere, hike in Grasmere or simply unwind with a fireside retreat in a stone cottage. It’s an intensely refreshing experience – a much-needed break from Bahrain’s desert surroundings.

2. Literary Trails and Royal Tales
For Bahrainis who’ve studied or lived in the UK, there’s a fondness for its literary and royal heritage. So why not walk in the footsteps of the greats? Oxford and Cambridge – the two university giants – offer not just world-class architecture and libraries but also walking tours of their ancient colleges, where the likes of Stephen Hawking, C.S. Lewis and Sir David Attenborough once walked.

In the south, the city of Bath – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is a town that Regency history and Jane Austen fans absolutely must see. With Roman baths, Georgian crescents and an annual Jane Austen Festival, it’s a charming combination of spa, history and elegance.

And for the royal enthusiast, a visit to Windsor Castle or a stroll through Kensington Palace gardens is a connection to a ruling monarchy that has been revered by many in Bahrain for generations.

3. A Taste of the New Britain
Modern Britain is multicultural, dynamic and bursting with culinary creativity. Skip the cliché of fish and chips and opt for a Michelin-starred Indian restaurant in Birmingham, Opheem, or a sustainably sourced seafood supper in Cornwall. For the adventurous palate, Borough Market in London is a celebration of world flavours – from Middle Eastern mezze to Caribbean jerk chicken.

If you’re travelling with family or seeking something offbeat, the Scottish Highlands offer immersive food experiences like foraging tours along the coast.

4. Britain for the Mindful Traveller
Post-pandemic travel has brought a renewed focus on mindfulness, and the UK is quietly leading the way in this space. From forest-bathing experiences in the Yorkshire Dales to eco-conscious retreats in Devon, there’s a growing movement towards nature-led, soul-enriching holidays.

Even in London, you’ll find calm amid the chaos – rooftop yoga sessions, Japanese gardens tucked into busy boroughs, and wellness stays at heritage hotels that blend tradition with tranquillity.

5. The Purr-fect British Getaway for Cat Enthusiasts
Britain is also a surprisingly delightful destination for animal lovers, especially those with a soft spot for cats.

Start your journey at Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium in East London, a whimsical café inspired by Victorian tearooms and Alice in Wonderland, where rescued cats lounge on bookshelves as you enjoy high tea. In York, The Cat Gallery is a treasure trove of feline-themed gifts and supports local cat charities. To top it off, unwind in the British countryside at a pet-friendly cottage through sites like PetsPyjamas or Canine Cottages, where resident cats and peaceful surroundings make for a truly purr-fect getaway.

6. Curtains Up: A Theatre Lover’s Guide 
For those who live and breathe theatre, the UK is a treasure trove of dramatic delights. Begin your journey in London’s West End, the beating heart of British theatre, where iconic venues like the Palace Theatre and the Royal Opera House stage everything from timeless musicals to groundbreaking new plays.

Just a short walk away, Shakespeare’s Globe offers an unforgettable experience, transporting visitors back to the days of the Bard with open-air performances in a faithful reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse. No theatre pilgrimage is complete without a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare and home to the world-renowned Royal Shakespeare Company. Further north, Edinburgh dazzles with its dynamic arts scene, especially in August during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe –an unmissable celebration of theatre, comedy and creativity on every corner.

Whether you’re into classic drama or cutting-edge performance, the UK stage is always set for something spectacular.
 

Tags #best places to visit in UK for Bahrainis #UK cultural holidays Bahrain #Jane Austen tours UK #eco travel UK from Bahrain #luxury UK travel Bahrain #UK wellness retreats for GCC travellers #British countryside travel #Bahrain to UK travel guide #UK holidays for Bahrainis #UK travel from Bahrain #uk in bahrain 2025 #uk in bahrain #btm may 2025