25 things to do in the UK in 2025

A brand new year means brand new plans for the months ahead — which is why we’ve put together 25 things to do in the UK to make 2025 a year to remember, from outdoor thrills and notable anniversaries to mass events and new openings…

Try ‘noctourism’

Nocturnal tourism — or ‘noctourism’ — is a rising trend. Try nighttime kayaking in Newcastle or the Dorset coast, sample an after-dark rockpool safari in Cornwall or go for a summer stargazing swim in the Lake District.

Be part of the Rugby World Cup

Scrum down! The Women’s Rugby World Cup takes place in England from 22nd August to 27th September, with matches being held in the likes of Manchester, York, London and Bristol — all cities with YHA hostels.

Hike Coast to Coast

After considerable improvement works, this year is expected to see the official opening of the Coast to Coast Path Trail as a National Trail. Trek the full 192 miles (309km) from the Lake District to the North York Moors, or enjoy one of its many day walks.

Get scientific in Manchester

Manchester is used to being at the forefront of things, from music and fashion to design and (sometimes) football, but its most enduring influence has been in industry. This summer, the city’s Museum of Science & Industry launches its new Power Hall. Stay at YHA Manchester. 

Go green in Bristol

Ten years ago Bristol became the UK’s first city to be given European Green Capital status, and it’s still blazing a trail with everything from hydrogen-powered cruises to vegan restaurants. Stay at YHA Bristol. 

Bag some Wainwrights in the Lakes

With 18 hostels within the Lake District National Park, we’re perfectly poised to look after you on your Lakeland wanderings.

Cycle the Traws Eryri

Two-wheeled adventures don’t get much more epic than the new Traws Eryri (Trans Snowdonia) trail, an off-road adventure route covering 140 miles (225km). Take it on if you dare.

Visit the New Forest

It’s now 20 years since the designation of the New Forest National Park, making it the perfect time to visit this adventure-rich swathe of southern woodland, which plays home to some of the oldest trees in the country. Stay in the heart of it all. 

Know your place in Greenwich

The Greenwich Royal Observatory marks its 350th anniversary this year, so if you’re staying at one of our London hostels, head along to stand on the Prime Meridian Line or — in its famous planetarium — crane upwards at the stars.

Take in a World Heritage Site

UNESCO has its 80th birthday this year, which is motivation enough to visit one of the dozens of remarkable World Heritage sites across England and Wales, from Canterbury Cathedral to the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct & Canal.

Visit a garden with a difference

The National Botanic Garden of Wales is 25 years old this year. The 500-acre site has a spectacular Great Glasshouse, home to some of Earth’s most endangered plants. Our nearest hostel is YHA Brecon Beacons.

Ride the rails to York

1825 marked the birth of modern rail travel, right here in the UK, and Railway 200 is a year-long celebration of this bicentenary. York is home to the excellent National Railway Museum, where the refurbished Station Hall reopens in the spring. Stay at YHA York. 

Go for a family ride on the Monsal Trail

The 8.5-mile (13.5km) Monsal Trail, on the bed of an old railway track, remains a great family day out in the Peak District. Hire bikes (or bring your own) to get from end to end.

Step back in time at Ironbridge

The birthplace of the Industrial Revolution has a calendar packed with hands-on events, from blacksmith experience days to china painting. Stay at YHA Ironbridge Coalport. 

Get walking with YHA

After another successful year in 2024, this autumn will see the return of the YHA Festival of Walking. Join a social walk, opt for a self-guided route or simply spread the word among your friends. 

Head to Hull

The port city of Hull has a long maritime heritage, and various sites and historical vessels are being refurbished for reopening later this year. Stay at nearby YHA Beverley Friary to be close to the city. 

Skydive for YHA

The countryside looks pretty impressive from 13,000 feet in the air — and even more so when you’re speeding earthwards at 120mph. Take on a skydive to fundraise money for YHA and chalk up an unforgettable experience at the same time. 

Try your hand at volunteering

Volunteering with YHA is a chance to have fun, boost your CV, learn new skills and see more of the country. Might this be the year you give volunteering a go? 

Get on the trail of Gromit

Charmed by the Wallace & Gromit Christmas special? Bristol will be unveiling a brand new Gromit sculpture trail in 2025 — the perfect excuse for a family trip.

Don your bonnet in Bath

This year marks the 250th birthday of Jane Austen. The big day itself doesn’t roll around until 16th December, but related events are being held year-round. Head to Bath to unleash your inner Elizabeth Bennet or Mr Darcy. Stay at YHA Bath.

Take some time with JMW Turner

It’s 250 years since the birth of the legendary London-born painter. See his inimitable works up close at the National Gallery and Tate Britain.

Take an overnight train to Cornwall

Fancy falling asleep in London and waking up in Penzance? The Night Riviera runs six nights a week and is one of only two sleeper services in the UK.

Pay a visit to Portmeirion

Just outside Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, the extraordinary waterside village of Portmeirion turns 100 this year, marking a century since architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis began designing and building this unique tourist attraction. YHA has six hostels in the park itself.

Enjoy the Liverpool Biennial

From 7th June to 14th September, Liverpool will be holding the UK’s largest contemporary free art festival. Time your stay to make the most of it. Stay at YHA Liverpool Albert Dock. 

Raise a glass to YHA

This year marks our 95th anniversary as an organisation — we’ll be continuing to make a difference to the people who need it most as we prepare for our centenary in five years’ time.

Photo credit: Caroline / Alexandre Patchine / Colin & Linda McKie / coward lion / Doublelee / Ellenamani / German Skydiver / Kmiragaya / Marco / Paul / riachsion / Sharpshot / SuxxesPhoto / Ivelin / Marco / Channel Photos / Adobe Stock 

Read the full edition of The Journey: winter 25