Moving to live and work in the UK is an incredibly exciting experience. Most first timers have their eyes set on London – with its skyscrapers, trendy suburbs and bustling centre. However there really is so much to be discovered outside of London.
Across the UK many cities are soaring in popularity with the same appeal and life as London, but without the price that goes with it.
Here at UK Pub Co. we’ve narrowed down six of the best places to live and work outside of London.
Manchester
Ask a Manc (Mancunian; locals to Manchester) and they’ll tell you Manchester is the greatest city in the UK. This sense of pride for their city is easily justified. Manchester is a modern city with a rich history, full of culture, sport and has a thriving music scene.
The living cost up north is much lower than London and the southern cities. You’ll find food, drinks and other expenses cost less. The city centre is full of bars, restaurants and nightclubs yet it still has a grungy, unique feel. Home to Oasis, Manchester’s musical roots thrive and you can always find live music to enjoy.
Check out: Affleck’s Palace for unusual markets and vintage stores.
Have a drink at: The Counter House in the Northern Quarter. This up and coming district is full of hidden gems.
Go out: Hula serves the best flaming zombies and plays RnB. It’s a no brainer.
Edinburgh
Scotland’s famous capital city is also one of the most liveable cities in the UK, in fact, the world. Edinburgh is ranked amongst the top 20 cities to live in globally.
It’s no wonder with friendly locals, a thriving city centre, rich history and more whisky than you could taste on your whole trip!
Check out: Trying Haggis is a must – we recommend Arcade Bar Haggis and Whisky House on Cockburn St.
Have a drink at: If you’re in Edinburgh in December the Christmas Markets have great bars with mulled wine and cider.
Go out: The Bongo Club – a nightclub with live music and an artsy vibe.
Leeds
Another northern city topping the list is Leeds. Leeds is a vibrant, friendly city with a large student population so it’s great for working holiday makers. It’s the second largest metropolitan district in England with a population of 779,000. Living in Leeds is relatively low cost and the salaries are good because of the business district.
Check out: Go see an arthouse film at Hyde Park Cinema House, one of the UK’s oldest cinemas.
Have a drink at: Learn to drink like a local on a Brewtown tour – you can try an array of beers from local brewers.
Go out: Junkyard Golf Club is a great choice for a night out – with four bars, mini golf and neon industrial decor.
Brighton
Never Normal Brighton. Revel in this melting pot of people from all walks of life from all over the world. If there’s one place you can be your true self, Brighton is it. This colourful city is famous for its seaside Pier and beach huts. You’ll find people wandering ‘The Laines’ made up of quirky shops and bars or flocking to its pebbly shores on a hot day for a swim and a BBQ.
Check out: The Pier is a must visit but we also recommend stopping at the Royal Pavilion and gardens.
Have a drink at: one of the many seafront bars! The tables extend right onto the pebbles so you can watch the sunset.
Go out: The Green Door Store – underground music vibes and great tunes.
Cardiff
The capital of Wales, Cardiff is a relatively small city (it’s not even in the top 10 in the UK for population) but it’s full of spirit. It’s an easily accessible city and you can easily get to some beautiful Welsh attractions and coastal towns easily. Cardiff is famous for its nightlife where people from all over the UK will venture for a weekend away.
Check out: Hire a boat at Roath Park and take in the scenery.
Have a drink at: The Dead Canary is a secret speakeasy with amazing cocktails.
Go out: Based on the movie, the Coyote Ugly Saloon Bar is always a fun time.
Bristol
Referred to as ‘Mini London’ Bristol has everything. A lively city centre, rolling countryside, culture and loads of trendy areas to explore. Bristol was name the 4th best place to work and live in the UK in 2017 by the Sunday Times.
The home of Banksy, you can see some of his earlier work in the city. The food is also exceptional with a great mix of street food and fine dining.
Check out: The ultimate escape room, head to ‘Hell in a Cell’ where you’ll have to escape a serial killer before they catch you
Have a drink at: The Bristol and Bath Rum distillery is home to over 150 different bottles
Go out: Smoke and Mirrors has all the charm of a 1950s underground comedy club where you can bring a bottle and enjoy the performances.
The great news is wherever you end up in the UK, you’re never too far away. The UK is easily accessible by train – you could be in England, Wales and Scotland all in the one weekend.
If you’re ready to live and work in the UK get in touch with us at UK Pub Co. You could have a job AND accommodation sorted before you leave! Contact Us Today.