Sheffield
Set in the Pennines S of Leeds, Sheffield has one of the finest surroundings of any English city. Famous for its steel and cutlery industries, it has a thriving cultural life and is home to the pop fans' mecca, the National Centre for Popular Music.
Stratford - upon - Avon
Beautifully situated on the River Avon, Stratford is the home of England's greatest playwright William Shakespeare. Rich in heritage and culture, with impressive architecture and a unique collection of shops and restaurants, the city welcomes visitors from all over the world.
Coventry
To the south east of Birmingham, Coventry is a modern city with a long history including the story of Lady Godiva. Full of interest, its post-war cathedral, an inspirational architectural achievement, stands alongside the ruins of its medieval predecessor.
Cambridge
Quieter, more ethereal than Oxford, Cambridge has one of Britain's most beautiful and intimate city centres - much of it pedestrianised. It's also a hive of high-tech excellence, which brings added verve to its historic university and streets. Strolling, punting, exploring galleries are just a few ways to pass the time.
Oxford
This ancient University City is at once timeless and modern, its 'dreaming spires' and tranquil college courtyards coexisting with lively arts venues, bustling shops and fashionable restaurants.
Chester
Encircled by a glorious two-mile ring of Roman and medieval walls, Chester is a rare and truly magical blend of the ancient and traditional with modern cosmopolitan chic. Step back in time amid pristine Georgian and Victorian architecture, shop in the unique medieval two-tier galleries called the Rows and enjoy the city's classy café culture.
Newcastle & Gateshead
Newcastle & Gateshead face each other across the River Tyne, joined together with no fewer than seven bridges within the central area alone, they make up the heart of a region steeped in history. Today, however, you're more likely to be bowled over by their many new and exciting developments, as innovation is everywhere - from Newcastle's recently restored Grainger Town to the ground breaking Gateshead Millennium Bridge - this is an area that dares to be different.
Nottingham
All year round Nottingham buzzes with life thanks to the unique blend of shops, bars and pubs, restaurants, theatres and galleries. This renaissance city combines history and legend, culture and style, revealed by its many attractions, architecture and medieval associations with the legendary outlaw Robin Hood.
Caernarfon
Caernarfon, at the southern end of the Menai Strait, is the ceremonial capital of Wales. The great turrets of Caernarfon Castle have dominated the town and its harbour for 700 years and it is the location for the investiture of the Princes of Wales.
Inverness
Scotland's newest city is also the acclaimed social and cultural capital of the Highlands. Its appealing setting at the mouth of the River Ness surrounded by hills rightly justifies its description as Britain's countryside city, offering wonderful outdoor pursuits to compliment wining, dining and shopping in Inverness itself.
