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Food has become one of the biggest influences on travel, with many clients planning their holidays around the local flavours they’ll discover along the way.

For Australian and New Zealand travellers visiting the UK, each of the four capital cities offers its own distinctive culinary identity. From traditional favourites and bustling food markets to innovative restaurants and locally produced specialities, every destination provides an opportunity to experience the UK’s diverse food scene.

Whether your clients are passionate foodies or simply enjoy discovering a destination through its cuisine, here are four capitals that deserve a place on their itinerary.

London: A global dining capital

London is one of the world’s most exciting food destinations, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants and elegant afternoon teas to bustling street food markets and cuisine from every corner of the globe.

Borough Market remains a must-visit for food lovers, while neighbourhoods such as Soho, Covent Garden and Shoreditch are packed with independent restaurants, cafés and cocktail bars. Clients looking for a quintessentially British experience can also enjoy afternoon tea at one of the city’s iconic hotels.

5* Sea Containers London

Overlooking the River Thames on the vibrant South Bank, Sea Containers London places clients within easy reach of Borough Market, Covent Garden and some of the capital’s best dining districts, making it an excellent choice for food-focused city breaks.

Edinburgh: Scotland’s flavours at their finest

Edinburgh blends centuries of tradition with an increasingly sophisticated food scene.

Visitors can sample classic Scottish dishes alongside modern fine dining, while cosy pubs, whisky bars and seafood restaurants showcase some of Scotland’s finest local produce. The city’s cafés and bakeries also provide the perfect excuse to slow down between sightseeing.

For clients keen to experience Scotland’s famous whisky, numerous tasting experiences are available throughout the city.

4* InterContinental Edinburgh The George

Located in the heart of New Town, this elegant hotel offers easy access to many of Edinburgh’s renowned restaurants, whisky bars and vibrant dining scene while providing a luxurious base for exploring the city.

Cardiff: Welsh specialities and waterfront dining

Cardiff’s food scene has grown significantly in recent years, combining traditional Welsh flavours with contemporary restaurants and independent eateries.

Clients can sample Welsh cakes, locally produced cheeses and Welsh rarebit before exploring the cafés, bars and restaurants around Cardiff Bay. Cardiff Market also provides an authentic taste of local produce, artisan foods and long-established family businesses.

The city’s compact layout makes it easy to enjoy a relaxed day exploring its culinary highlights on foot.

3* Staybridge Suites Cardiff

Offering spacious, modern accommodation close to Cardiff Bay, Staybridge Suites Cardiff is well positioned for clients looking to explore the city’s growing restaurant scene while enjoying the flexibility of apartment-style facilities.

Belfast: A rising star for food lovers

Belfast has quietly established itself as one of the UK’s most exciting culinary destinations.

The city’s thriving restaurant scene celebrates fresh local produce, from Irish beef and seafood to artisan cheeses and handcrafted chocolates. St George’s Market remains one of Belfast’s most popular attractions, offering everything from freshly baked goods and local delicacies to live music and artisan producers.

Traditional pubs, contemporary bistros and stylish cocktail bars complete a food scene that continues to grow in popularity.

5* The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast

Situated in the heart of Belfast, The Fitzwilliam Hotel places clients within easy reach of many of the city’s leading restaurants, bars and St George’s Market, making it an excellent choice for travellers keen to experience Belfast’s flourishing food scene.

Tips for Travel Agents

  • Ask clients what they enjoy eating. Food lovers often appreciate recommendations just as much as sightseeing tips, helping you personalise their itinerary.
  • Encourage market visits. Food markets are a fantastic way for travellers to experience local culture, discover regional specialities and support independent businesses.
  • Recommend local experiences. Whisky tastings, afternoon tea, food tours and cooking experiences can all add something extra to a UK holiday.
  • Consider hotel location carefully. Staying close to popular dining districts allows clients to make the most of their evenings without travelling far.
  • Pair great food with great accommodation. Stuba offers a wide choice of hotels across the UK’s capital cities, making it easy to recommend properties close to the restaurants, markets and culinary experiences your clients will love.