Have you ever visited a city or a town and thought to yourself, hey, this place is cool?
Of course, coolness is an objective measure of anything, but around the globe, there are some universally cool places that simply have to be seen to be believed, with many people putting Tokyo, New York, and Paris on that list.
When you live in the UK, usually if you are younger, you may want to travel and spend some time living in a cool town or city, which begs the question, where is cool in the UK?
Fret not! You won't have to spend a fortune traveling to find the cool spaces in the UK, as here, you will find the top 5 cool cities to live in and why they are so. Enjoy!
1. Bristol
Yes, Bristol is often renowned by students and older people alike as being one of the UK's most innovative and exciting cities. It is a haven for sustainable efforts, as well as creativity and community.
Cool cities like Bristol are known for having a thriving art scene and, with it being known as the birthplace of the 21st-century mystery artist Banksy, it is somewhere for art students and lovers to stay for a while! It is full of world-class graffiti and murals by Banksy, and other artists, which adds a nice touch to its roaming streets. Also, if you are a fan of festivals, the annual Upfest festival is also known to pull in artists, making this a hub of painters and sketchers from around the world.
Of course, it's not just art. The city has a food scene that is also culturally wide and delicious. For fans of independent cafes, you will be sure to find at least one that tickles your taste buds. With the addition of markets like the St. Nicholas Market and a handful of historic pubs, Bristal is a paradise for everyone who adores food.
2. Manchester
Manchester, the once unassuming city in the north, is now renowned to have it all.
It is known as the "Capital of the North" for its modern culture and is now an economic powerhouse. It is perfect for young professionals and students, thanks to it having affordable living costs, especially when compared to cities like London.
Manchester is also known for its legendary music scene, having produced bands like the Smiths, Oasis, and Joy Division. The city also plays host to incredible live performances at both the Albert Hall and the Manchester International Festival.
3. Edinburgh
Heading further north, Scotland's capital of Edinburgh blends modern amenities, with natural beauty and history.
Walking through the cobbled streets, you will see truly stunning architecture, from the medieval Old Town to the Georgian New Town, which will showcase that it is one of the most beautiful cities in the entire UK.
Putting the picturesque part aside, it is also a great spot for nature enthusiasts. Living in Edinburgh, you are a short walk from Arthurs Seat, which is an extinct volcano, and you will also have some stunning views of the countryside. Perfect for nature lovers who need to be near the city.
4. Brighton
Brighton is one of the coolest cities in the UK, a magnet for students and young people.
It has an eclectic and eccentric vibe which is addictive, and is known for its liberal attitudes and its stunning seaside setting. Of course, there is the pier, but with its colorful streets, its lanes filled with cafes and coffee houses as well as its galleries, this is an experience that truly needs to be lived to be understood!
Also, for those who may need to commute to London but don't want the cost, it is just an hour away by train, allowing professionals to live by the sea while also getting access to the big city.
5. Birmingham
The second largest city in the UK, Birmingham, has, in recent years, undergone an immense transformation. It is now a metropolis that is renowned for its food, its shopping, and its rich culture.
For food lovers who move to the city, there is the "Balti Triangle" which is celebrated as the birthplace of Balti curry. Add this to the markets, like the Bullring Indoor Market, and you will be able to get your hands on some unique and fresh produce every day.
As for the culture, there is the Birmingham Museum, the Art Gallery, and the Symphony Hall, all of which are perfect for those who love the arts. If you are a sports enthusiast, then you can enjoy matches and events at the Edgbaston Cricket Ground, or catch a match with Aston Villa and Birmingham City. The choice is yours!
