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The wonderfully diverse and beautifully vibrant countries that make up Great Britain and Northern Ireland have something to offer everyone. From rugged coastlines and magnificent mountains to tranquil beaches and meandering rivers, there are natural wonders and native wildlife around every corner of the United Kingdom. Ancient ruins meet architectural marvels, and city skylines stand proud within green parklands. The ability to move from coast to countryside to city so easily makes the UK pretty special, not forgetting its pubs, regional delicacies, shops, theatres, festivals and sporting events. With so much to explore and so many things to do, your hardest decision will be where to start. That’s where The Great British Travel Guide will help! Delve inside and start planning your trip today.…

Samuel Johnson once said: “When a man is tired of London, he’s tired of life.” London is one of the most vibrant cities in the world. It’s packed with things to see and do, from beautiful architecture and history to iconic landmarks and, of course, the Royal Family. It’s a shopaholic’s paradise, a culture vulture’s dream, and a major foodie hotspot. But beyond this, every neighbourhood has something unique to offer. Red telephone booths, double-decker buses and the Underground are synonymous with London, but the city is full of iconic sights. One of the most famous landmarks is Big Ben. You can’t visit London without taking a photo in front of the Elizabeth Tower and Houses of Parliament. Most people think Big Ben is the 96-metre (315-foot) clock tower, but…

When naming the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey as a World Heritage Site, UNESCO also included the medieval St Margaret’s Church, dedicated to Margaret of Antioch. Founded by Benedictine monks in the 12th century, it was intended to be a place where locals could worship, the idea being that they wouldn’t disrupt the monks at the abbey. Initially created in a Romanesque style, the church was rebuilt between 1482 and 1523 by the King’s Master-Mason Robert Stowell and it is this that we see today, albeit with a reconstructed northwest tower that was completed in 1738. Eastern and western porches have also been added and, from 1614 to 1972, St Margaret’s was the parish church of the House of Commons. There are many highlights for visitors, including the burial…

Less than an hour away from London (via Victoria Station), the vibrant and eclectic city of Brighton is the perfect choice for those looking for an exciting day trip or a place to spend a few days by the shore. At its best in the summer, when the skies are blue and the smell of vinegar-soaked fish and chips wafts through the air, Brighton Palace Pier is a staple stop-off for any Brighton visit. Beating wars and ferocious storms to stand tall for more than 125 years, the pier is both a historical point of interest and an entertainment hub. Spend the afternoon playing games at the arcade, thrill seeking in its dedicated fairground and gorging yourself on authentic British seaside fish and chips. Those interested in more of Brighton’s…

As soon as you set foot in the charming city of York, you will realise just how special it is. It dates back almost 2,000 years and is bursting with history and culture. The city was founded by the ancient Romans, who named it Eboracum, in 71 CE. Even though there is not much left from that time period today, the Roman Fortress wall is one of the city’s most iconic sights and a great place to start your visit. Despite the fact that the Romans left their mark on the city, York is undoubtedly most associated with the Vikings, who invaded the city in 866 and gave it the new name, Jorvik. Today, York widely celebrates its Viking past, and links to its Norse heritage can be found everywhere.…

For those who thrive off of the buzz of city life, Wales’s capital city is the place to go. Not only is Cardiff a multicultural hub, steeped in history and Welsh heritage, but it is also a lively region brimming with lots of amazing things to see and do. Top of any tourist’s list of ‘places to visit’ is Cardiff Bay. Less than 100 years ago, the area was a stopgap for numerous ships that docked in the port, but in more recent years it has been transformed into a beautiful meeting point with a great selection of bars and restaurants, as well as a stunning view across the waters. Boat tours promise a panoramic view of the beauty of the bay and its iconic sights such as the Pierhead,…

When you envisage Edinburgh, the first pictures that come to mind might be the Old Town buildings and bagpipe buskers. However, just a short bus ride from the centre of the city is Edinburgh’s seaside. Called Portobello Beach, this sizable sandy beach is just six kilometres (four miles) east of the centre. There are two frequent buses that operate until late at night, to transport you to and from the beach. On warmer summer days, or crisp and clear winters, Portobello is the perfect spot for a beach walk. Along the promenade are characterful restaurants, quaint cafés, volleyball courts and Turkish baths. During the summer is the best time to take a refreshing sunset dip in the North Sea, and even have a fire on the beach. You can purchase…

At one time it was a hub for importing and trade for the UK, but today Glasgow is a hub for arts and culture. Many may know Edinburgh as being a cultural hotspot due to the Fringe Festival but Glasgow is really the place to be as there is always something on. One of the best things about Glasgow is that you don’t need to leave the city centre to experience all it has to offer. Museums, green spaces, street art and music venues are all available from the centre of Glasgow. The Style Mile is Glasgow’s shopping district where you can look around worldwide brands and independent stores. While browsing Sauchiehall Street you should visit the Willow Tearooms. Designed by architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, it presents an experience for…

With more than 1,000 rooms and covering 52,000 square metres (560,000 square feet), Windsor Castle truly is a residence fit for royalty. It’s been called home by 40 English and British monarchs and thousands of other people over the centuries, and has occupied a unique position in the lives of the royal family through multiple changes in dynasty. Its towering walls and splendorous apartments have housed some of the most iconic people in British history, but it’s also no mere relic of a bygone era – Windsor Castle still plays a role in royal society today. It was a favourite weekend retreat of the late Queen Elizabeth II and continues to host ceremonial and diplomatic functions – just as it has done for centuries. Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest…

Great Britain has a rich history and culture, which can be seen in the many iconic estates spread throughout its countries. These estates offer a glimpse into the past, from towering castles and palaces to grand stately homes, and each one is an architectural marvel with a unique story to tell. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply love exploring new places, our curated list of castles, stately homes and palaces will help you discover the best of Great Britain’s cultural treasures. BUCKINGHAM PALACE London, England Arguably the most famous royal residence in the world, Buckingham Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring London. Visitors can watch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony – the formal handover between soldiers on duty, known as the…

The Angel of the North is a stunning jumbo sculpture that stands 20 metres (66 feet) tall on top of a hill north of Birtley. Designed by Anthony Gormley, it’s become well known for its distinctive aircraft‑style wings, which span 54 metres (177 feet). They’re angled 3.5 degrees forward to give a sense of embrace – welcoming the millions of people who drive past on the nearby A1 and A167 roads each year and the 150,000 curious visitors who stop for a closer look. When the work of art was announced in 1994, it was widely derided. Some considered it to be a waste of money, some feared it would be struck by lightning, and others said it would be so distracting to motorists that it would cause frequent accidents.…

One thing the UK does very well is museums, from vast venues packed with global treasures, to outdoor living museums that give a real taste of life in the past. London is packed with options and you can spend days walking around all the best museums. But it’s worth doing your research and seeing what you can find in the smaller towns and cities. Reading Museum, for example, has Britain’s Bayeux Tapestry, painstakingly hand-stitched in exact detail by Victorian embroiderers. The Museum of Making in Derby is located in what was the world’s first modern factory. Here we round up ten of the best museums around the UK. PORTSMOUTH HISTORIC DOCKYARD Hampshire, England Located within Portsmouth Naval Base, this museum is home to some truly iconic ships, which you can…

As the sun rises over Northern Ireland, the view from one area of the north coast is nothing short of stunning. With the rays bouncing off the Atlantic Ocean, standing on one of the three outcrops of volcanic rock, frozen in perfect hexagonal columns, it seems as though time has stopped. With just the sound of the water lapping at the shore, it’s more tranquil than anything you could imagine. It could be the setting of a myth – and in fact it is. Legend has it that the Causeway was created by giant Finn McCool as he threw rocks into the water to cross to Scotland and teach another giant, Benandonner, a lesson. Things didn’t exactly go Finn’s way, and as he scarpered back to Ireland, he destroyed some…

The UK is a diverse and beautiful place to explore, and one of the best ways to get a real feel for the country is to slow down and head back to nature. There are numerous trails that make for perfect walks, whether as day trips from a central base, or longdistance adventures with multiple stops along the way. If you prefer to be on two wheels than two feet, cycling can be a great way to see more of an area. There are cycle routes to suit all, from family-friendly and traffic-free routes to more challenging and hilly multi-day treks. The UK is also a great place to camp. There are thousands of campsites to choose from, from bustling holiday resorts to remote off-grid experiences. TARKA TRAIL Devon, England…

There’s an old English folk tune called Country Gardens, later known as English Country Garden, dating back to around 1728. It’s a celebration of the marvellous green spaces that are peppered across the country, referencing daffodils, roses, snowdrops, forget-me-knots and tall hollyhocks among others. In many respects, it encapsulates England’s love affair with gardens extremely well and you may find yourself humming the tune as you venture around one today. Having become popular in the 1st century AD following the Roman invasion, country gardens are part and parcel of the landscape, with varying influences over the years. Let’s look at some of the best. CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW Royal Hospital Chelsea, London Held annually since 1913, the Chelsea Flower Show, organised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), is a showcase for…

With thousands of miles of coastline around the country, there are hundreds of incredible beaches worth visiting. There is a diverse choice, too, depending on what kind of beach you’re looking for. From traditional seaside towns to hidden coves, and top surfing destinations to wildlife havens, there really is a lot to discover. Around 10% of the coastline in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is looked after by the National Trust, while other areas are privately owned or managed by estates, helping to preserve the coastline and its unique features. KYNANCE COVE Cornwall, England The turquoise sea and white sandy beach make this cove something pretty special. It’s no wonder that it’s so heavily photographed and painted. Located about 1.6 kilometres (a mile) from Lizard Point, at the southern tip…

Great Britain hasn’t always had the world’s best cuisine. In the past, food in France was often considered to be more sophisticated, but all that has changed. Today, Britain has some of the best eateries on the planet with some of the globe’s finest chefs from Gordon Ramsey to Rick Stein. Since the country is gloriously multicultural, it’s also possible to sample the best world cuisines – it’s definitely a diverse place to eat. To that end, it’s difficult to boil them down to a handful of choices, but it’s clear there are wonderful places to eat across the entire land as we’re about to see. THE FAT DUCK Berkshire, England Heston Blumenthal’s fine-dining restaurant is sure to tantalise your tastebuds in ways you’ve never experienced before. Priding itself on…

There is something quite special about checking out a show in the West End. This is an area steeped in rich history. The oldest theatre is Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, which was built in 1663; over the centuries since, many more have joined it. Some have changed names since their inception; others are barely recognisable from their original designs – but this is testament to the vibrancy and innovation of the area, always changing to keep up with modern trends, while retaining its sense of history. This is reflected in the choice of shows, too. Long-running classics like Les Misérables are performed alongside modern sensations such as Hamilton. There are 39 theatres that are normally considered to make up the West End; however, there are also many smaller productions, with…

Great Britain and Northern Ireland may be relatively small on a world scale, but these isles are packed with diversity, culture, heritage and history. You can travel from one end to the other and immerse yourself in completely different experiences. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant city break or a weekend at the beach, long walks in the countryside or skiing in the mountains, you’ll find it somewhere in the United Kingdom. The largest country in Great Britain is England, stretching from Cornwall at the most southern end to Northumberland where England meets Scotland. The south is characterised by a warmer climate, endless beaches and wild heathland, with fishing villages and seaside towns. As you move up towards the Cotswolds, the landscape transforms into lush green fields and postcardperfect hamlets,…

You can see castles and palaces in London, but it’s worth stepping just outside London to visit one of the best known of them all. Take a day trip from the capital to see the world’s oldest castle and the venue for two recent royal weddings: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank. Windsor Castle is the largest occupied castle, covering 13 acres (five hectares). It is currently one of the King’s residences, and he spends more time there since becoming monarch. The castle has more than 900 years of history and has been home to 40 monarchs. Take an audio tour narrated by King Charles to visit the opulent state rooms and marvel at the Gothic architecture of St George’s Chapel. When else will you…

Originally built as a symbol of suppression by a foreign power, the White Tower, and the buildings that encompass the entire Tower of London complex, have been gradually absorbed into British culture and now stand as a symbol of the nation and the monarchy in particular. Once William the Conqueror had seen off King Harold Godwinson at the Battle of Hastings, he needed to tighten his grip on the country and deter any rumblings of resistance. The first tower (known as the White Tower after it was whitewashed in the 13th century), was an imposing, forbidding structure. Situated on the Thames, it acted both as a visible reminder of Norman power, and as a fortress to guard the approach to London. As an 11th-century military structure, it is unmatched. Having…

Liverpool is one of those UK cities with a specific energy to it. Whether it’s the city’s maritime history, the cultural melting pot it became in the 19th century with immigration from the USA, Jamaica and China, the fact that the world’s most famous pop band ever grew up and met there, or maybe it’s something to do with the scouser’s legendary sense of humour… Whatever it is, there’s no doubt you’ll have a great time in this northern city gem, and it’s just the right size for a weekend away, with fast train links from all over Britain, particularly London. First up, why not take to the water in a boat across the Mersey? Yes, it seems like a cliché to follow in the footsteps of Gerry and the…

The city of Bristol in England’s proud West Country has a history ranging back over 1,000 years as a trading hub, its network spanning all the way from French Gascony to far-flung Iceland during the Middle Ages. A vital port and industrial centre for a long time, it quickly reinvented itself as a cultural hub in the late-20th century as its heavy industry faded. In the 21st century, without much fanfare, Bristol has become a centre for creative arts, music and theatre, with an impressive number of live-music venues, museums, galleries and theatres for a city of its easily walkable size. “Bristol has made a name for itself as a hotbed for trail-blazing musical and artistic creation” After years of operating under the radar, today Bristol is an up-and-coming destination…

Say Belfast, say mini break, right? If Belfast isn’t top of your list of weekend destinations, you’re a bit [whispers] behind the times, because the city has gone through a transformation in recent years and it’s now a hip, cultural and beautiful place to visit with a fascinating and thought-provoking past to explore. The Titanic was built in Belfast and set sail from the city’s dock on that fateful day in 1912. Now the Titanic slipways, the Harland and Wolff Drawing Offices and the Hamilton Graving Dock, the places where the Titanic was designed, built and launched, have been turned into a visitor experience that tells the story of the ship, its creation, its passengers and workers and, of course, its ill-fated voyage. Expect a self-guided tour, interactive galleries, full-scale…

An important factor to consider when visiting Edinburgh in the summer is whether or not you want to go during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. This is the busiest time of the year to visit, but also the liveliest and most actionpacked. For three weeks in August, artists and performers from all around the world flock to the capital city to showcase their talent. Many of the performances are ticketed, while a large percentage are ‘pay what you can’. Venues all across the city are converted into stages, while pop-up bars and restaurants provide a festival ambiance. The streets are vibrant and energetic during this celebration of the arts. And, by supporting the best up-and-coming performers, you can be a part of the next big name’s journey. Some of the comedians…

It’s one of the most recognisable landmarks in Britain, but no one really knows how it came to be. If you’re driving down the A303 just north of Salisbury, the circle of stones in a field by a busy main road may not look like much. But that’s where you’d be mistaken. Those stones have been there for at least 3,500 years, their age just part of their appeal to tourists. The mystery is probably the reason why it’s visited by thousands each year. As the years have gone by, stones have disappeared and the landscape itself has changed, so we’ve had to make some guesses as to what the henge was used for. Two stones are named for their purpose – altar and, somewhat sinisterly, sacrifice – but the…

Britain has a global reputation in the world of religion. It’s also home to many of the world’s most stunning architectural marvels, so it’s little wonder that these two worlds have collided to produce 87 cathedrals in England, Scotland and Wales, each with their own individual beauties, secrets and quirks. Every one of them could deserve an entry here, but we’ve whittled the list down to the five best, whether due to its history, religious significance or simply its design. Honourable mentions must go to St David’s, a cathedral in Wales that makes the city of the same name the smallest in Britain; Liverpool, the largest in Britain; and Durham, voted Britain’s number one landmark in 2013. But here are our favourites that are worth a visit regardless of religious…

On your way to Blackpool, you can play a fun game enjoyed by millions over the years: ‘Spot the Tower’. The winner will be the first to see the iconic North West seaside structure, which pierces the sky at 158 metres (518 feet) and can, on a good day, be seen as far away as the Lake District and Wales. The real fun, however, begins when you arrive at the Blackpool Tower itself. Built over three years, with construction complete in 1894, it’s been at the core of the town’s famous Golden Mile for decades. And, as well as admiring it from the ground, you can take a trip to the top (or at least 116 metres (380 feet) up) courtesy of the Blackpool Tower Eye. Venturing upwards allows you…

The UK’s National Parks were established to enable everyone to have access to some of the country’s most impressive landscapes. They boast thousands of kilometres of rights of way routes, including more than 1,300 kilometres (800 miles) suitable for those with accessibly issues. They are also areas where wildlife thrives and is protected, where traditional and cultural values and lifestyles are upheld, and where people can enjoy the benefits of engaging in nature. Each National Park has its own distinct characteristics, which show off the best of the regions in which they’re based. With ten in England, three in Wales and two in Scotland, no matter where you travel, you’re never too far away from a National Park. LAKE DISTRICT Cumbria, England Not only the largest National Park in England,…

Shaped by the surrounding sea, glaciation and surging streams, the distinctive British landscape consists of varied upland and lowland regions. The upper peaks, which attract mountaineers, rock climbers, hikers and bikers, are diverse in their rock types – from the tough granite and slate that constitute the craggy peaks of the North, to the limestone of England’s Pennines mountain range and the chalk and limestone sculptures of the southern coast. Meanwhile, the lowlands collect the rainfall that provides Britain’s greenery and transforms the valleys into fast flowing waterways for kayaking and rafting. Whether you desire a water sport tour or a mountain holiday, Britain’s recreation ground is sure to heighten your adrenaline and provide access to unique peaks, crevices and sights across the country. COASTEERING Combining sea swimming, rock climbing…

Around 90% of Britain is countryside, and much of this space is teeming with wildlife. To see some of the more impressive of the country’s specimens, you need to know where to look. Some of the rarest and most charming animals hide tactically in their homes, away from watchful eyes, while others only spend short portions of the year in Britain before embarking on great migrations. Timing your trip to their breeding places is essential to get the best view. Many animals roam all year round, and can be seen across the country. The largest mammals are red and roe deer, while common smaller mammals include badgers, otters and hedgehogs. From the shores you may be able to spot dolphins, while orcas can be glimpsed between April and October. Some…

Whether you’re seeking culture, adventure, nature or simply some rest and relaxation, the stunning lakes and waterways of Britain always deliver. Linking towns and cities with remote corners of countryside, river travel is an exciting way to combine rural and urban areas. The same can be said for Britain’s storied canal system, boasting an impressive 4,345 kilometres (2,700 miles) of connected waterways. As for the nation’s lakes, these are often found among the dreamiest of landscapes, from the lush Welsh wilderness to the misty mountains of the Scottish Highlands. Choosing how to travel is part of the fun, too. Float elegantly downstream on a canal boat, hike nature-clad trails along the water’s edge or brace for high-speed city jaunts. ULLSWATER Cumbria, England The better-known, 18-kilometre (11-mile) long Windermere easily triumphs…

We’re all familiar with Great Britain – the large island that includes big cities such as London, Edinburgh and Cardiff – but there are thousands of smaller islands that combine with Great Britain to form the British Isles. Some are tiny, some are uninhabited, and some can only be visited at certain times of the year. Travellers who make the effort to board a ferry to Britain’s islands will find themselves in gloriously unspoiled landscapes and far from the mainland crowds. From day trips to week-long destinations, join us on a tour around the best islands in the seas around Britain. SKOMER (YNYS SGOMER) Pembrokeshire, Wales The death-defying ledges on Skomer’s high cliffs are the perfect location for storm petrels, guillemots, kittiwakes, razorbills and fulmars to lay their eggs, and…

Germany has its beer halls, France its bistros, Spain its bodegas and the USA its sports bars, but for the UK it’s always been the humble pub. Other than an establishment with tasty food and a variety of beverages, it can be hard to put your finger on what distinguishes a pub from other drinking venues, but you typically will know in your gut. From the coast to the hill ranges and moors, from huge cities to tiny villages, inns are ubiquitous throughout the UK, but they’re far from alike. As proven by this selection, there are some true outliers offering something beyond the staples expected of any pub worth its salt(ed) peanuts. THE SQUARE & COMPASS Dorset, England This hardy tavern on a bluff overlooking the English Channel has…

There’s no shortage of wonderful festivals in the UK. Nowhere else in the world could you chase a weighty nine‑pound cheese down a hill like at the Gloucestershire Cheese Rolling festival, or pursue a dancing foliage-covered figure to release the spirit of the summer, as is the case each spring at Hastings’ Jack in the Green. Yet alongside these offbeat offerings with their folklore roots is a plethora of high-profile events. From Reading, Leeds and the Isle of Wight festivals to FOCUS Wales in Wrexham and Galloway’s Knockengorroch, the music events are world-class, while the literary and cultural celebrations are something to shout about, too. Keep reading to find out more. GOODWOOD REVIVAL West Sussex, England Fans of cars and motorsports, this one is for you. For three days in…

The Grade I listed building that is the Royal Albert Hall was opened by Queen Victoria in 1871 in memory of Prince Albert, who encouraged the project but sadly died before he saw it become a reality. It’s a prominent concert hall that has since hosted many notable performances from an impressive mix of genres. Around the outside of the building is an extensive frieze with 16 different subjects, from music and sculpture, to agriculture and astronomy. Once inside, the huge arena can fit more than 5,000 people, with perfect sound thanks to the slightly otherworldy acousticdiffusing discs that hang from the roof. Throughout the year, there is an exciting programme of events. There are some regular events that happen there every year, which attract thousands of people from around…

Ravens have become almost synonymous with the Tower over its history – in fact, legend claims that the kingdom would fall if the ravens ever left, so their care is taken very seriously. The Yeoman Warder Ravenmaster is responsible for ensuring the famed birds, including Jubilee and Munin (seen above) are safe and well looked after. Six ravens are necessary in order to prevent disaster from striking the nation, but a seventh is also kept, as a spare. The tradition is believed to date back to Charles II, who liked the connection with the legends of Alfred the Great and decreed that ravens must always be present – not an easy decree to uphold as the birds can now fly. Their wings used to be severely clipped, but more flight…

Creative, cosmopolitan and genuinely welcoming, Manchester marches to the beat of its own drum. Today, the city that gave birth to the computer, socialism and votes for women, teems with cultural and historic gems, world-class restaurants and, of course, a legendary music scene. Culture begins at Manchester Art Gallery, which houses an extensive collection of British and European art by the likes of Cézanne, Renoir, Turner and Lowry. For those short on time, the gallery runs free hour-long tours from Thursday to Sunday. Further south, emerging from a sprawling urban park, the Whitworth Art Gallery displays a magnificent selection of work by contemporary artists, including Degas, Picasso, Freud and Hockney. It also plays host to the Art Garden, created by celebrated landscape designer, Sarah Price. Across town, the Science and…

If you’re mooching around the city centre, chances are you’ll be able to look up and see the fire-hose shaped Wills Memorial Building of Bristol University. This grand, golden tower is a true landmark, sitting on a vantage point atop a hill. You can get even higher by taking a tour to the top of the tower every Saturday. To get there you’ll want to wander up one of the city’s best shopping streets: Park Street, begun in 1761. Start at College Green, where you can enjoy a delicious gelato and brioche sandwich. It faces onto the historic Bristol Cathedral, which is worth a look if you have the time. As you go uphill, you can browse vintage clothes shops, stop off in a chocolate cafe, or even buy some…

Welcome to Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city and the second mostvisited city by tourists in the UK. Edinburgh isn’t the biggest city in Scotland, but it holds undeniable charm with its contrasting old and new architecture, medieval cobblestone streets, elegant townhouses and mighty royal residences. There are many attractions to beeline for when you enter this city, but be sure to take the time to roam the historic streets and uncover hidden passages, narrow closes and intricate architectural details. At the heart of the city is Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. This is the main road, which cuts centrally through the Old Town and reveals the cultural, social and religious history of the city. This wide road was built in the 12th century to connect the castle-topped hill to the then-small town that…

When you think of Scotland, you’ll likely conjure up images of Edinburgh Castle, but many forget about the city of Stirling, its castle and the crucial part it played in the history of Scotland. Stirling is home to many secret Scottish gems not to be missed. The city is roughly equidistant between Edinburgh and Glasgow, so you have no excuse not to go. To the untrained eye, Stirling Castle looks like Edinburgh Castle’s younger sibling. Like Edinburgh, Stirling Castle sits proudly at the centre of the city on a rocky cliff. Inside the castle walls, you’ll find the Royal Palace, which now frequently hosts an exciting world of plots, passion and intrigue with costumed performers bringing history to life. You’ll also find a new exhibition focused on the castle’s archaeology,…

The world-renowned Roman Baths in Somerset, England, is one of the most popular attractions in Britain, as well as one of the finest historic sites in Northern Europe. The Romans first built a religious temple on the site of the natural hot spring around 70 CE. Believing that the hot spring had therapeutic powers, they dedicated the temple to Sulis Minerva, the goddess of healing. Over the next 300 years, the site was developed into a public bathing complex, which resulted in the development of the town of Aquae Sulis, now known as the city of Bath. Today, visitors can step back in time and walk on the original Roman pavements to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. The Roman Baths consist of four main features: the Sacred Spring, the…

EILEAN DONAN CASTLE Dornie A BEAUTIFUL CASTLE IN A STUNNING PART OF SCOTLAND This 13th-century fortification cuts an iconic Scottish image. Destroyed during the Jacobite rebellions, restoration work was carried out at the turn of the 20th century, and it has been featured in many films such as Highlander and The Wicker Man. www.eileandonancastle.com URQUHART CASTLE Inverness A RUINED BEAUTY ON THE LOCHSIDE Once one of the largest castles in Scotland, Urquhart changed hands between England and Scotland during the Wars of Independence. Situated on the picturesque banks of the famous Loch Ness, these impressive remains are packed with an outstanding array of history as well as important historical artefacts that are just waiting to be discovered. www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/urquhart-castle CASTLE SINCLAIR GIRNIGOE Caithness A MARVEL IN THE FAR NORTH Located on…

Stretched across the north of England, running from coast to coast, lies a wall. Running for more than 117 kilometres (73 miles), it was once the northernmost border of the greatest civilisation in antiquity, separating the Romans from the wild Pictish clans; now it’s home to trails, ruined forts and dramatic views that are just waiting to be explored. Hadrian’s Wall, named for the Roman emperor who ordered its construction in the 2nd century CE, spans Northumberland, Cumbria and Tyne and Wear, and each site offers a unique chance to find out what life was really like on the Roman frontier. Head to Housesteads near Hexham in Northumberland to explore one of Britain’s most complete Roman forts – including the oldest toilets you’ll probably ever see – or make your…

Few people have demonstrated such passion for the arts as Rowena Cade. When her local acting society wanted an open-air location to stage The Tempest in the summer of 1932, she offered up her garden – the perfect spot for Shakespeare’s island comedy since it overlooked the sea. Cade and her gardener then spent the next six months shifting granite and earth to create a level stage and terraced seating, hauling materials by hand from the house or up the winding path from the beach below. Opening night, on 16 August 1932, was a raging success, despite the stage being lit by battery powered car headlights and the cast having to change in her house. Cade had found her calling, and spent the next 50 years improving her garden theatre;…

If for your next trip you’re looking for an ethereal, rugged landscape, look no further than the Scottish Highlands. With something for everyone, from wildlife spotting to drinking Scotland’s famous whiskies, it’s the perfect destination no matter what your tastes. The Highlands are perhaps best known for the lochs, which are littered around the area, each providing a unique experience. Some are on the main tourist trails – those like Loch Ness with its famed ‘monster’ and Loch Lomond – and can be easily reached on day tours from Edinburgh and Glasgow. Others are hidden away, waiting to be stumbled upon, like Loch Morlich and Loch an Eilein near Aviemore. Each one is worth a visit to experience the peaceful waters and wooded slopes that envelope the lakes. But those…

Relative to area, Great Britain’s sea border is extensive – that’s no secret. Some estimates put it at longer than 31,300 kilometres (19,450 miles), which equates to more than three-quarters of Earth’s circumference. Given this abundance, you might ask what’s so special about a mere 150-kilometre (95-mile) strip on the English Channel running from Studland in Dorset to Exmouth in Devon? Beaches, dunes, cliffs are common enough across all UK shores, so what marked out this stretch to be designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2001? The answer is multifold. But probably the clincher is reflected in its name. The Jurassic Coast is so-called because of the rich variety of fossils that have been unearthed here for more than two centuries. Indeed, this region is globally seen…

Britain is home to some truly impressive natural wonders, from dramatic gorges in Somerset and magical limestone arches teetering across the Pembrokeshire coast to otherworldly rock formations on the eastern edge of Scotland. Millions of years in the making, these monumental sites scattered across the country not only provide perspective, but an opportunity for the intrepid to immerse themselves in the nation’s rich and staggeringly extensive natural history. Nothing beats those pinch-me moments courtesy of Mother Nature. That’s why we’ve rounded up ten must-see examples of the natural world being incredible in the UK. CHEDDAR GORGE Somerset, England The village of Cheddar might be best known for its namesake cheese, but it is also home to the renowned Cheddar Gorge – the UK’s deepest natural canyon featuring striking 130-metre (427…

All over the UK there are wonderful natural areas perfect for spending time outdoors, suitable for all ages and interests. Many of these are designated ‘country parks’, which are public green spaces located conveniently for people to enjoy a slice of the countryside without travelling too far from urban areas. Usually, country parks offer a range of activities, along with parking, toilets and cafés. There are around 400 of these country parks in the UK. On top of that, there are many more parks to explore, which might not have all the facilities of a formal country park, but often offer a more rustic experience. We’ve highlighted just eight great parks here, but do your research when you’re visiting a new area, as there are plenty of gems to be…

We all need a chance to switch off from time to time. Luckily, outside of the major towns and cities of the UK, there are some great locations to relax in. We all have different ideas of what relaxing means, which can help you plan the perfect trip. You may prefer a location where you can get outdoors and be active, with long walks, watersports and getting back to nature on the agenda. Or maybe you want to spend time reading a book, meandering around historic houses and listening to birds in a traditional garden. We’ve put together five relaxing locations, each with a different vibe. SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Scotland If you’d rather spend your time surrounded by wildlife than people, then it’s worth the journey to the Scottish Highlands. Towering…

It’s not all baked beans on toast, you know. Okay, baked beans on toast are awesome and you should definitely have them but despite what the internet suggests, Brits have a much wider palette than that. Sometimes they have spaghetti hoops on toast… But seriously, Britain has a vibrant gastronomic scene. Nine of the 144 three-star Michelin restaurants in the world are on this relatively small island, but what Britain excels at is comfort food. Warming, hearty, filling and moreish, if you want to know what makes a Brit tick, just check their menus. We’ve gathered a small selection of essential food and drink to try if you’re visiting. And no tin-opener required. PIES While sweet pies may be the signature dish of the USA, savoury pies couldn’t be more…

Britain is home to a huge number of competitions for lots of different sports, with many of the events featured here being among the most prestigious, longest-running or most hotly-contested in the world. There really is something for everyone. While we’ve highlighted the ones you have probably already heard of, you might also want to check out the English National Surfing Championships in Newquay, Cornwall; watch the London Marathon on the streets of the Capital; follow the Tour of Britain cycle race; or spectate at the UK Athletics Indoor Championships. Many of these sporting events are more than just watching a competition; they are often fun-packed affairs with plenty going on for the whole family. FA CUP FINAL Wembley Stadium, London, England MAY OR JUNE The men’s FA Cup Final…

Napoleon once said that England is a nation of shopkeepers. Well, we can extend that to the whole of the UK today because, if there’s a true national pastime that binds all of the countries, there’s no doubt that shopping is a strong contender. Figures suggest there are more than 310,000 retail outlets in the UK with the total value of sales reaching over £440 billion each year. From Liverpool and Leeds to Leicester and London, streets continue to bustle with people, and shopkeepers tend to their needs with a diversity of options. Here we look at the biggest, most famous, interesting and iconic retail spaces you must visit. HARRODS Knightsbridge, London, England Harrods has a motto: ‘Omnia Omnibus Ubique’. Translated from Latin, this means ‘All things for all people,…