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The Shambles in York is one of the prettiest streets in the UK.

The UK is home to some of the prettiest streets in the world. We have looked at streets right across the country and created a list of the top 11 most beautiful for you to visit. With old buildings dating back centuries, independent shops and just overall magical atmospheres, these are by far the prettiest streets in the UK. We have looked at a number of factors, such as pretty shops, how old the buildings are and what else can be seen from these streets to rank them, with number 1 being a truly magical spot that transports you back in time.

Next time you are planning a trip within the UK, consider one of these places, as these streets need to be seen to be believed. They are spread right across the country, from Scotland to the South of England. Make sure to have your camera, as you are going to want to take some snaps of these places. However, photos never compare to the real thing, and you need to look at these places with the naked eye to truly appreciate their beauty.

Here are the 11 prettiest streets in the UK.

Bristol, the artsy English city full of colour, music and culture, has plenty of lovely streets. Plus, it is one of the best places in the UK for second-hand shopping, with the highest concentration of charity shops and vintage shops in the country.

However, its prettiest street doesn't have many shops. The Christmas Steps, with a pub of the same name at the top, is the most picturesque street in Bristol, and one of the prettiest streets in the UK.

Chester is one of the best-preserved old cities in the UK, and that is evident on Eastgate Street. A walk here is like stepping back in time, as it is lined with timber buildings that house independent shops and cafes.

The old city walls are on display at points here, and the street is a go-to for history lovers as much as it is for shoppers.

Many would argue that Edinburgh is the prettiest city in the whole of the UK. It's hard to argue with that when you see its castle, its old buildings and the excellently-preserved streets.

When you come to Victoria Street, you will likely be met with tourists taking photos. Indeed, areas of the city get quite busy with tourists, and there is a reason for that. The colours of Victoria Street alone make it a magical place that perfectly suits the front of a postcard.

The Pantilles is indeed a British street, but it has quite a European feel to it. That is evident when the sun comes out, and the street is filled with outdoor drinkers and diners enjoying one of the town's many cafes, restaurants and pubs.

The balcony-lined street is fully pedestrianised, and it is a truly charming place to be. Plus, the weekends see a market taking place, giving you plenty to browse during your journey down this lovely street.

A pretty street doesn't necessarily have to be packed full of independent shops and quaint cafes. Sometimes, it is simply a way to get from A to B while enjoying some pretty stellar views along the journey.

That is certainly the case with The Vennel in Edinburgh, which winds down a hill while offering a unique vantage point from which to see the mighty Edinburgh Castle.

Lincoln is probably one of the most overlooked visitor cities in the UK. Although it is small, it has plenty to offer for those interested in British history and culture.

One of the most famous sites in the city is Steep Hill, which does pretty much what it says on the tin. It is a steep cobbled street lined with shops and cafes, and those who do visit the city consider it a truly charming highlight.

Many streets in the UK are rather windy, but not many of them are perfectly oval. But that is the case with The Circus in Bath, a city that is known for its incredibly well-preserved architecture.

The Grade I listed Georgian architectural masterpiece dates back to 1768 and includes 30 houses. When you look at it from certain angles, the precision in design is truly breathtaking, and it's something that attracts the huge number of tourists who visit the ancient city every year.

A true piece of rural magic comes in the form of Gold Hill in Shaftsbury, a short street atop a high hill that gives incredible views of the surrounding Dorset countryside.

The picturesque cobbled street has become rather famous, and it is a bucket list UK destination for many avid staycationers. For the nostalgic among us, you might recognise it as "Hovis Hill" from a classic 1970s TV advertisement directed by Ridley Scott.

Castle Combe has repeatedly been hailed as the prettiest village in the UK. It is a true reminder of why the Cotswolds are considered such a beautiful place that many people dream of visiting.

The Street is perhaps the most famous site in the village, as the bridge over the river onto the street lined with old stone houses looks like it was stolen off the front of a postcard.

A street that looks as magical as the name suggests, Mermaid Street in Rye is truly charming, with its cobblestones and old buildings that are worthy of being inserted right into a fairytale book.

The 15th-century timber-framed buildings transport you back in time, and notable stops include the Mermaid Inn pub, which dates back to the 12th century.

Although it is relatively short in length, The Shambles in York is thriving with life. In total, there are ten independent shops on this relatively brief stretch, including a wool shop, a gift shop and a scone cafe.

It is a remarkably well-preserved medieval street, and is a true taste of how life was back in 14th-century Britain. With its overhanging upper floor and cobbled street, it is like no other place in the UK and indeed, in the world.