The A to Z of England

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There is so much we miss about England right now, and although we’re unable to visit our favourite places, we have pulled together an A to Z of England to inject a bit of wanderlust into your day. While this list only touches the surface of what can be experienced in England, it’s nonetheless a lovely start. Enjoy!

A is for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

St Mary's Old Town Beach on the Isle of Scilly under a clear blue sky.

England is blessed with 33 designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. These luscious expanses are dotted across the country, from the Isles of Scilly  off the Cornish coast to the Northumberland coast in the North East.

B is for Beaches

It may not be the hottest place all year round, but England has beaches to rival more exotic locales. From surfing in Cornwall to fossil hunting in Dorset, there are beaches to tempt every type of person.

C is for Castles

Aerial view of Bamburgh Castle on the coast of Northumberland, England.

From bloody battles to medieval merriment, castles are iconic symbols of England. Many are now in ruins, but others are still homes to this day. Admire stately rooms and cultivated gardens, and uncover surprising and, at times, gory stories dating back centuries at hundreds of heritage attractions across the country.

D is for Drama

You don’t need to head to the West End to experience the best theatre in England. Whether it’s a seaside venue in Sussex or a cliff-side amphitheatre in Cornwall, there are plenty of places to see thespians tread the boards in amazing shows and spectacular settings. You can even learn a bit more by going backstage in Sunderland .

E is for Eccentricity

The English are a quirky bunch, with many weird and wonderful activities taking place throughout the year. Dorset has its nettle-eating contest, Gloucestershire has cheese rolling and woolsack racing , Manchester is home to the World Black Pudding Throwing Championships and Derbyshire plays a bizarre game of football quite unlike the Premier League.

F is for Flowers

The English garden is world-renowned. With more gardens open to the public than anywhere else in the world, sweeping landscaped lawns, ornate flowerbeds and fragrant rose borders are never too far away.

G is for Gin

Bombay Sapphire, Whitchurch, Hampshire, England

Gin is now the trendsetter’s tipple of choice. With household names like Bombay Sapphire and Plymouth Gin opening their distillery doors, you can take a peek at how it’s made. Or if you fancy something a little bit more off the beaten track, there’s a myriad of independent distilleries mixing their botanicals for you to try out.

H is for History

Great Bath and columns at Roman Baths, Bath, England

Whether you want to travel back to the time of the dinosaurs , or maybe a somewhat recent era like the Roman Empire (Ok, that may not be THAT recent), England has layer upon layer of stories and intrigue to discover. Pick anywhere on the map and you’ll find a tale there.

I is for Islands

While Britain is an island in itself, England is also home to many other smaller islands and archipelagos, each with their very own distinct personality. The Isles of Scilly, for example, has a chilled-out vibe, and the Isle of Wight is famous for its outdoor activities and coastal landmarks. Plus, there are places like Lundy in the Bristol Channel, the Farne Islands off the coast of Northumbria, and many more that make up our interesting make-up.

J is for Jorvik

The centre of York, surrounded by walls whose foundations date back to medieval times. There is a wall walk around the city. York Minster at sunset.

The Viking name for an iconic northern city, but which one? From Roman settlements and Viking invasions, to Shed Seven and a rich chocolate heritage, this city has plenty to keep you busy.

K is for Kew

Founded in 1840, Kew Gardens houses the "largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections in the world". Explore Victorian glasshouses blooming with exotic cacti and palms, an arboretum made up of 14,000 trees and even a collection of carnivorous plants at this South West London oasis .

L is for Lakes

Two men in swimming shorts jumping off a boat into the lake at Ullswater, Lake District, Cumbria.

If you prefer your bodies of water inland, then the English countryside is full of heavenly lakes to choose from. From cruising in Cumbria and walking your pooch , to spotting rare birds in Wiltshire, you can admire, swim, sail, or simply have a picnic on their shores.

M is for Museums

Exterior view of the Museum of Liverpool, Pier Head, Liverpool Waterfront, Merseyside, UK.

England has a wealth of world-class museums and galleries, including some that date back as far as 1683 . Whether you want to admire ancient art  or explore Liverpool's vibrant history , there’s a museum for you. And what’s even better, many of them are completely free to visit.

N is for Nature

Head to green fields or above the treetops of England. Even if you’re not a fan of getting your shoes dirty, there are plush ways to get the best of both worlds. Check out one of the many nature reserves across the country   – you can even go glamping in some of them. 

O is for Oysters

A platter of open shucked oysters with garnish of fresh lemons. A glass of chilled white wine. View out over the beach and sea.

Oysters are a renowned aphrodisiac and a highly sought after delicacy, but they were also once a staple part of the working-class diet in England. They are so legendary they even have their own annual festival in Whistable. Discover some of the best places to guzzle them , all washed down with a glass of bubbly.

P is for Postcard-perfect villages

Row of quaint stone cottages in the Cotswold village of Bibury, Bibury, Gloucestershire, England.

England is home to some of the most beautiful villages in the entire world. The numerous hamlets that make up the Cotswolds and the model-like seaside village of Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire are just two magnificent examples. But, there are countless others to explore too, each with their own style of buildings, traditions and village life.

Q is for Queens

England’s queens have always been pillars of strength and they're revered through the ages – and, luckily for us, there are lots of places across the land where we can get a glimpse into their lives. The Isle of Wight is home to Queen Victoria’s holiday villa , while Hertfordshire’s Hatfield House, among other stately filming locations , features in Netflix’s hit series, The Crown, which portrays our current monarch, Queen Elizabeth II.

R is for Roast dinner

Crispy roast potatoes, covered with a glug of homemade gravy. There’s nothing tastier, or more comforting, than a good old roast dinner. Head to any cosy country pub or sit on the banks of a river in the summertime for a foodie institution that is as English as it gets.

S is for Safari

England’s zoos and safari parks are a great way to spend a day out, especially with the kids. You can get up close to the animals with special experiences , find out more about how endangered creatures are being cared for, and maybe even have a monkey jump on your windscreen!

T is for Trains

Steam train on the Dartmouth Steam Railway line, approaching Churston running along the coastline.

Even if you don’t own an anorak, spotting trains in England can still be exciting. There are numerous steam trains still running across the country, many of which you can take a journey on. Travel through the luscious Pennines , enjoy gorgeous sea views at a slow pace or even help drive the train yourself. Choo choo!

U is for Underground

Deep below England’s quaint towns and thriving cities is a hidden world waiting to be explored. Here you can find music venues with unusual surroundings and giggle-inducing names for caves. You can even get down and dirty with potholing . Watch out though, some of England’s caves have got a demonic past .

V is for Vineyards

 Bosue Vineyard, Saint Austell, Cornwall

You don’t need to head abroad to sample amazing wines. England has more than its fair share of vineyards to choose from – from the shores of Scilly to the outskirts of York . You can even sample England’s answer to champagne with a glass of sparkling fizz near the Sussex coast .

W is for Wizards

A lot of England’s heritage is based on mythical folklore, from natural wonders attributed to magic and witchcraft, to the enchanting resting place of a King and his wizard. Though in more recent years, the wizarding world has made its grand return to the country thanks to a certain someone named Harry Potter .

X is for Extreme

Three people in climbing gear, two women and a man, at Stanage Edge, Peak District, Derbyshire, England.

Ok, so it doesn’t begin with X but it’s close enough! Believe it or not, England has plenty of places for adrenaline junkies. Leave the indoor climbing wall behind – instead, scale a crag or a carapace, or even something that has its own special name ! For those of you who aren’t THAT daring, then you can always head out for a curry and crank the spice up a level. Hardcore!

Y is for Yachts

Whether you just want to sip champagne and watch the boats go by at the world’s biggest sailing regatta , or you’re raring to get out on the open water , sailing is a sport that was made for the English coastline. With specialist schools in places like Hampshire, Sussex and Kent, you can plan a whole trip around your love of the sea.

Z is for Zennor

This little village in Cornwall comes with quite a peculiar name and some rather striking views. The quarry in the village once serviced the building of nearby St Ives and St Just. If you stay close by, you’ll come across the curious Zennor Quoit as well as a wealth of history, complete with mermaids and princesses.

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Lock Shiel in the Scottish highlands on a bright, sunny day, with the Glenfinnan Monument in the foreground and mountains on the left and right of the loch

The 35 best things to do in the UK

World-famous landmarks, incredible music festivals and some unexpected gems: this is our pick of the best things to do in the UK right now.

The United Kingdom is a glorious destination, and the four countries that constitute our island nation all bring something to the table. England , Northern Ireland , Scotland and Wales are all stunning places to visit in their own right, with fantastic museums and galleries , buzzing music scenes, incredible scenery and intriguing histories. 

Whatever kind of trip you’re planning next, our round-up should have you covered. We've got all the world-renowned stuff as well as some more under the radar things to get up to. Happy travels! RECOMMENDED: 🧙 The most  mystical places in the UK 🏰 The best  castles in the UK 🏖️ The best seaside towns in the UK 👀 The best  new things to do in the UK 2024

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in the UK

Check out Time Out’s top place to visit in the UK in 2024

1.  Check out Time Out’s top place to visit in the UK in 2024

Bristol's  cultural scene is just as exciting as  London ’s, but it’s still only a short coach journey away; it has picture-perfect streets and bustling, diverse nightlife. And i n 2024, its arts offering is only getting better. There's  DIASPORA! , Undershed , a new immersive gallery on track to launch in Spring, Boxhall  – a street food, beer and events space by the same people who behind London’s  Boxpark  – and  Bristol’s newest music festival,  Forwards , which is being headlined by Loyle Carner and LCD Soundsystem. 

Discover the best places to visit in the UK in 2024

Pitch up at a world-famous music festival

2.  Pitch up at a world-famous music festival

Festivals don’t get much more famous than Glastonbury . The UK’s biggest music festival takes over a chunk of Somerset countryside most summers with mud, music, mischief, hippies and healing. It’s difficult to convey quite how vast Glasto is, with whole worlds of activity taking place beyond the stages as well as an awe-inspiring musical line-up ranging from pop to reggae to rock to dubstep to metal to folk to techno. If you’re lucky enough to bag a ticket, bring an open mind, a sense of humour and a jumbo pack of baby wipes.

Discover our full guide to Glastonbury Festival 2024

Climb the UK’s highest peak

3.  Climb the UK’s highest peak

Lace up your walking boots to take on Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in mainland Britain, at 1,345 metres above sea level. There are two main routes up – the Mountain Track, which is used by most walkers or Carn Mor Dearg Arête, a more challenging ascent for experienced scramblers and hill walkers which can take more than ten hours to complete. If you really love heights, consider taking on the National Three Peaks Challenge. Plan your own or join an organised event to climb Snowden, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis, the highest mountains in Wales, England and Scotland, usually within 24 hours.

Discover the best hikes in the UK

Party all weekend at Notting Hill Carnival

4.  Party all weekend at Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill Carnival – the annual celebration of London’s Caribbean community, its culture and traditions – is Europe’s biggest street party. It takes place every August bank holiday weekend on the roads around west London, transforming the area into one huge, packed, pulsating party. The carnival, which runs over two days (Sunday is family day), features a colourful parade, fantastic live music, thumping sound systems, soca floats, steel bands and a whole lot of delicious Caribbean food.

Discover our full guide to Notting Hill Carnival

Follow in the footsteps of giants

5.  Follow in the footsteps of giants

The Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland is a geological marvel. The dramatic coastal feature, made up of 40,000 basalt stone columns, has attracted visitors for centuries, but it became Northern Ireland’s first and only Unesco World Heritage Site in the 1980s and now also boasts a great visitor centre thanks to the National Trust. There are no museum ropes holding you back here. Wander over the shiny stones, sit on the Wishing Chair – a natural throne polished by thousands of bottoms – look out for rock formations the Camel and the Giant’s Boot. The result of volcanic eruptions over 60 million years ago or the remains of a pathway built by a giant? You decide.

Discover the best things to do in Northern Ireland

Get lost in a town of books

6.  Get lost in a town of books

When it comes to literary tourism, Hay-on-Wye is a real bucket list spot. It  proudly proclaims to be the world’s first ever book town and is famed for its annual book festival that has attracted the likes of Hillary Clinton, Dua Lipa and Stormzy. With over 30 bookstores, this is a bibliophobes mecca. If you had to go to just one, make it Richard Booth's – a three-storey emporium of new and used books spread over three glorious floors.  

Discover the best things to do in Wales

Take a tour of the UK’s incredible National Parks

7.  Take a tour of the UK’s incredible National Parks

The UK might be small but its countryside is mighty and incredibly diverse, from rolling green hills and ancient woodland to impressive mountain peaks, idyllic lakes and rugged moors. To see all the different kinds of landscapes the UK calls its own, take a tour of the UK’s 15 national parks, from the flat Norfolk Broads and the wilds of Exmoor to the high drama of the Lake District and Snowdonia  and the internationally recognised dark skies of Northumberland.

Discover the most beautiful national parks in the UK

Come up with your own conspiracy theories at Stonehenge

8.  Come up with your own conspiracy theories at Stonehenge

The world-famous prehistoric stone circle on Salisbury Plain attracts millions of visitors a year, but its popularity doesn’t detract from its intrigue. Were these imposing standing stones – bluestone from more than 150 miles away in Wales – a celestial calendar, a burial ground or a site for sacrifice? Was it built by Merlin the wizard and a band of giants? Are its origins supernatural, or even extraterrestrial? Or just an incredible feat of human will? Visit to figure out what you think the true story of the monument is.

Visit The Beatles’ childhood homes

9.  Visit The Beatles’ childhood homes

Get a ticket to ride around the city The Beatles called home. Liverpool is the place the Fab Four met and started performing. Learn about their incredible musical career at The Beatles Story before visiting Mendips and 20 Forthlin Road, the childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, now managed by the National Trust. Finish off your visit with a night out at the rebuilt Cavern Club which sits near where The Beatles first started to play in the early ’60s.

Discover the best things to do in Liverpool

Catch some Cornish waves

10.  Catch some Cornish waves

It may not have the white hot sands of Miami, but Cornwall is one of the best surfing destinations in the world (and we're not just being biased). And Fistral Beach in Newquay is widely thought of as the jewel in Britain's surfing crown. First timer or wave-riding veteran, this natural playground has opportunities for anyone to give surfing a go. The Cornish coast is also just really, really beautiful. 

Discover the best things to do in Cornwall

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Claire's Footsteps

All Destinations , Europe , United Kingdom

The great uk bucket list: 100 things to do in the uk.

british tourist attractions a z

Despite being British, and living in the country in-between trips abroad for my entire life, I have to admit that it’s taken me a while to fully appreciate the United Kingdom.

I lived in a suburb of London until I was 18 years old, and then moved to the West of England; this and subsequently meeting people from all over the country and exploring new regions of the UK made me realise how there’s loads of unique things to do in the UK and what a beautiful island I live on.

As I travelled abroad and started to meet people from all over the world, I learned that many yearn to explore the Yorkshire dales , the southern Cornish islands and the beautiful ancient universities of Oxford and Cambridge.

I realised that, for a country of such a tiny size, there’s a huge amount of culture, history and landscape packed in.

HEVER CASTLE

I’ve still explored painfully little of the UK, and I know that there’s so much more to check off my Great British Bucket List!

But here are the 100 things that I have either been to and loved, wish to go to one day or great things to see and do that other bloggers have recommended.

Here are the 100 best things to do in the UK.

Click on the map to view the best things to do in a certain area, or scroll down to read the entire UK bucket list!

british tourist attractions a z

What would be on your UK Bucket List?

LONDON

Where better to start this UK bucket List than the capital of the country?

One of the most famous cities in the world, London is the centre of British society, with a compelling history, ever-changing arts culture and a vibrant atmosphere.

Read on for the popular, touristy attractions and more off the beaten path things to do in London!

Note: You can get around London itself by public transport, but if you decide to visit some of the attractions outside of the city centre, it’s advisable to hire a car with a company like SIXT.

1. Explore inside Westminster Abbey

british tourist attractions a z

One of the most famous churches in the country, the gothic style Westminster Abbey has been the traditional place of the coronation and burial of British monarchs.

It’s actually not technically an Abbey, but a ‘Royal Peculiar’, which is a church responsible to the sovereign.

Take a visit to Westminster Abbey and marvel at the majestic detailed interior carvings and tapestries; it is very easy to imagine somebody becoming a King or Queen here!

2. Go up on the London Eye

It’s ever so touristy, but if you only do one mainstream thing in London, make it the London Eye.

It takes half an hour for your pod to travel the full length of the wheel, and the views of the capital sprawling out beneath you are absolutely unmatchable.

3. Admire Big Ben and go inside the Houses of Parliament

british tourist attractions a z

One of London’s most iconic structures; Elizabeth Tower which contains Big Ben, proudly stands on Southbank with the Houses of Parliament next door. On Saturdays and during parliamentary recesses, you can take an audio or guided tour of the houses.

You will be taken through a thousand years of history and educated in the fascinating and complex tale of how British politics came to be today!

Read More – Ten Facts About Big Ben

4. Take an unseen tour in Camden

By Laura from Grassroots Nomad

One of the more off the beaten path things to do in London is a tour led by the formerly homeless with Unseen Tours. One of the highlights of the trip was the climb up Primrose Hill to look out over London city.

I have been to this part of London and have admired this view before, but for my guide Mike it isn’t just a beautiful view. It is a reminder of his old life and the bankers that caused the financial crisis and recession that changed his life forever.

5. Visit St Paul’s Cathedral

british tourist attractions a z

This Anglican Cathedral is placed on Ludgate Hill in the City of London, and is dedicated to Paul the Apostle; founded in AD 604. It is one of London’s most notable sights. Take a guided tour of the cathedral and enjoy the fascinating history that the marvellous building revels in; and if you’re visiting on a Saturday, you can even climb the dome of the cathedral!

6. Look out over the capital at Greenwich Observatory

Known as the place where ‘East meets West’, the observatory is where GMT has been calculated for centuries.

Here, you can stand with one foot in the Western Hemisphere and one in the Eastern, learn about the makings of the first telescope and educate yourself with how time was standardised in the UK the world!

You’ll be sure to be graced with some outstanding views of London as well.

7. Walk over Tower Bridge

british tourist attractions a z

The famous Victorian bridge is open to walk over and explore, where you can enjoy the exhibition and monument, and learn all about its history.

To look at the city from another perspective, you can walk over the glass floor of the exhibition, peering down 42 metres to see the city and River Thames sprawling below.

8. See the Guard Change at Buckingham Palace

british tourist attractions a z

At 11:30am every day in the summer and on alternate days throughout Autumn and Winter, a patriotic ceremony takes place at Buckingham Palace, where the guards pass over duties as they change shifts.

You’ll undoubtedly recognise the guards that stand outside the palace – with their red uniforms and tall black hats – as a symbol of Britain.

9. Shop at Camden Market

At this bustling North London marketplace, you can purchase all sorts of quirky clothing, jewellery and trinkets and enjoy food from all over the globe.

The markets have a reputation of being somewhere a bit alternative, and you can find all sorts of non-conformist goods here! When you’re done shopping, you can take a seat by the canals and have a drink at one of the famous pubs…

10. Take a nighttime ceremony of the keys tour in Tower of London

A visit to the Tower of London, the UK’s most famous castle and jail (which has seen various regal prisoners!) is a must when you’re in the capital. If you want something behind the scene, you could go on an exclusive night time ceremony of the keys tour!

The clunk of the locks as the guards turn the keys and your small group is locked in the Tower of London. Then you’re reminded of the poor souls who were tortured and lost their lives here. Could those souls still be hanging around? – Tracey Neilson

Here’s some more information about visiting the awesome Tower of London !

11. Buy antiques at Portobello Road Market

Here is the world’s largest antiques market which boasts over 1000 stalls and shops that sell unique collectables and antiques. If you’re looking for something special to commemorate your time in Great Britain, here’s the place! There’s also a huge amount of retro and vintage clothes on sale, some at amazingly cheap prices.

12. Absorb the alternative vibe of Brick Lane

Written by Sally from  Passport and Plates

BRICK LANE

You may know  BrickLane  as one of the best places in London to “go for a curry,” due to its large collection of South Asian shops and restaurants. But besides the good eats,  BrickLane  is home to the ultra-hipster Cereal Killer Cafe, the bustling  BrickLane  Sunday Market, and incredibly cool street art.

Quite the change from its old reputation as the scene of the crime of the Jack the Ripper murders, it is now truly a must-see neighbourhood in East London.

13.Enjoy real London life at Trafalgar Square

Some call it the heart of London; Trafalgar Square accommodates Nelson’s Column, stone lions and the Fourth Plinth. It has been an important square in the city since the 13 th century and its name derives from The Battle of Trafalgar – a major London naval victory in 1805. It is the perfect place to sit and pass a few hours absorbing London life (as long as you avoid the pigeons!)

14.Visit the Natural History Museum

The museum houses 80 million items from botany, entomology, mineralogy, paleontology and zoology departments. It is a fascinating tour through our ancient history and how this has enabled Britain and the world to evolve into the place it is today. There are lots of great interactive activities and the museum is geared toward all ages!

If you want a bigger fix of the capital, check out these ten unusual things to do in London , or how about these thirty free things to do in London .

SE

Much of the South East is in very close proximity to the capital of the UK, however, the area basks in gorgeous countryside and enjoys stunning beaches.

The closest point to the continent, the area revels in a rich history (although, hasn’t enjoyed the invasions too much!) which makes for some fascinating things to do in South East England, many of which are UK bucket list worthy.

Check out these fascinating counties for a fusion of rural and urban societies and cultures. 

15. Brighton Pier

Views of the pier in Brighton on a sunny summers morning. The pier is shot from underneath for a different perspective. Brighton Palace Pier Opened in 1899 and home to fairground rides, bars, restaurants and deckchairs to enjoy the sea view.

The whole of Brighton was built up around the Victorian age, and the world-famous pier still retains a somewhat Victorian air.

There’s a nationally famous fish and chip restaurant and various bars, arcade games and funfair rides to enjoy; this is proper British seaside fun!

16. Canterbury Cathedral

One of the oldest Christian structures of England, the cathedral at Canterbury has always had national significance. It was founded in 597 but rebuilt in the 1000’s; of which a great deal still stands.

The cathedral displays a range of stained glass, some which has survived from the Medieval era and more from through the ages, including some contemporary pieces from the 20th century.

This and lots of other historical information at the cathedral means that here, you can learn about centuries of fascinating British history which has moulded the country into how it is today.

17. Hever Castle

british tourist attractions a z

The childhood home of Anne Boleyn – Henry VIII’s second wife and Queen Elizabeth I’s mother, and one of British history’s most colourful female characters – Hever Castle still stands majestically in the middle of a moat, open for visitors nearly every day of the year.

You can really engage with Tudor history throughout this castle, which has preserved some of the ancient rooms fantastically.

18. White Cliffs of Dover

The iconic white cliffs are located at the UK’s closest point to France; and have been an symbol of liberty and prosperity for centuries.

The unique cliffs can be enjoyed with a coastal walk – where you can see all the way to France on a clear day! It’s easy to do a white cliffs of Dover day trip from London , or you could stay in the area and enjoy some of the South East’s other attractions!

19. Windsor Castle

One of the queen’s residences, and the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor Castle is a must for every history enthusiast.

Here, you can enjoy a changing of the guard ceremony and explore some of the inhabited rooms. Take a look for the flag flying; if it is, it means that Her Royal Highness is around!

20. Beach huts at Whitstable

There are few things as charmingly British as colourful beach huts, and these excel in the pretty Kentish seaside town of Whitstable.

While these are all privately owned, the exterior of each individual hut can be properly enjoyed by a walk along the beach!

21. North Laine, Brighton

Full of independent shops and alternative traders, North Laine represents the unique identity of this coastal town. North Laine grew in the 1830s, when the Brighton Pavilion was constructed; and has prospered ever since.

It now enjoys a reputation as Brighton’s cultural epicentre and is the perfect place to pick up any quirky items of shopping!

22. Brighton Pavilion

No, it’s not the Taj Mahal! With influences from India and China, this majestic palace is a former royal residence; it was the holiday home of George, the Prince of Wales in 1811!

It was adapted again in 1815. It’s one of the best examples of Regency exoticism in the country and the interior is open to visitors.

23. Leeds Castle

Proudly protruding from the middle a moat, Leeds Castle has been called ‘The Loveliest Castle in the World’. Built in

Norman times, it was subsequently was the home of British Royalty for centuries (it was once Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon’s palace!) and now exists as one of Britain’s favourite tourist attractions – and the site of the world’s largest dog collar collection!

24. Sissinghurst Gardens

The Grade I listed Sissinghurst Gardens are what really give the county of Kent its nickname ‘The Garden of England’. With 460 acres of Wealden countryside and manicured gardens, there are plenty of gorgeous views and outstanding flowers to take in at Sissinghurst.

SW

The counties that comprise South West England have a unique culture and heritage.

From acres of farmland, iconic beaches, historic cities to vibrant cultural hubs, the West Country is a glorious pocket of the country that maintains a distinct identity.

The South West definitely contains some of the more beautiful things to do in England. I’ve spent five years exploring this diverse region, and I know that I’ll be back for more one day!

Read More – Eight things that the West Country does best

25. Clifton Suspension Bridge

british tourist attractions a z

An icon of Bristol (my favourite city, in case I haven’t mentioned it), the Clifton Suspension Bridge was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and opened in 1864; it was constructed at the narrowest point of the Avon Gorge to connect Clifton and North Somerset, and was built high enough for warships to get into the city.

Nowadays, it’s still a popular way to get out of the city and into rural Somerset, and is known as one of the most beautiful bridges in the country, which makes it a popular UK bucket list photography spot. Read More – Bristol, I Love You

26. Roman Baths, Bath

The Romans discovered the hot springs of Bath and subsequently created their hot baths here, as a place for the local community to socialise and pamper.

The baths have been fantastically preserved and nowadays you can take a guided tour around the attraction, during which you can vividly imagine being a part of Roman society some 2000 years ago.

27. Bath Abbey

The site of the first King of England’s coronation in 973, Bath Abbey has since had an intriguing and complex history and has always been one of the best things to do in Bath .

An abbey has stood on the site since Norman times, but it fell into disrepair until 1499, when Bishop Oliver King had a dream that instructed him to redesign the monument. This grew to a halt during the Dissolution of the Monasteries, but started again under Elizabeth I and developed into the astounding cathedral that it is now.

Read More – The Five Best Things To See In Bath

28. Stonehenge

A prehistoric stone circle in Wiltshire, Stonehenge is internationally recognised and is known nowadays as a symbol of Britain.

The circle is over 4500 years old, and how the stones were transported to this location with no technology remains an enigma, which adds to its appeal as a tourist attraction! The site remains one of great spiritual significance.

29. Stokes Croft Street Art

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If there was a place for a revolution, it could only be Stokes Croft in Bristol.

The UK’s best outdoor art gallery, talented graffitists are constantly adorning the walls of this hippy street with slogans, bright pictures and catchphrases about a variety of topics including, politics, pacifism, independence and jokes.

It’s a wonderful place to see a thriving new culture emerging.

Read More – The Five Best Things To See In Bristol

30. Get Lost in Cotswold Villages

There’s nowhere quite as quintessentially British as the Cotswolds; which means that visiting them should be an essential on your UK bucket list.

With charming old houses, beautifully tranquil streets and surrounding rolling hills; during a walk in these villages, you could easily feel like you’ve gone back 300 years. I really recommend visiting Stow-on-the-Wold, Winchcombe, Tetbury and Bibury.

31. Go Surfing in Newquay

One of the best spots in the UK to catch a wave, the chilled seaside town of Newquay has fully engaged with the sport to offer a delightful surfing culture – one that you might even expect to experience somewhere in Australia or California!

Read More – How to feel like you’re not in the UK when you’re in Cornwall

32.Visit Wells Cathedral

One of Britain’s most famous and beautiful cathedrals, Wells Cathedral is nothing short of a masterpiece.

The exterior is intricately carved with fascinating designs, and the interior boasts different prayer sections, an impressive navel and sometimes a live choir.

Read more – How to visit Wells and Glastonbury for just a pound!

33.Stroll Around Vicar’s Close

Just round the corner from Wells Cathedral is the oldest residential street in the UK!

All of the houses on this road date back from the 14 th century and still act as houses to this day. In fact, the only reminder that you are still in the 21 st century is the occasional parked car.

34. Lay on a tropical beach at the Isles of Scilly

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Just a short ferry from Penzance lay these stunning tropical-looking islands.

You’re always only 10 minute’s walk from the beach; where the crystal blue waters and golden sands look more Caribbean coast than the British seaside.

35. Walk on Dartmoor

Thanks to SoloSophie for this amazing image – follow her on instagram for more! These mystical moors have a lot of fables and stories surrounding them, and they are a fantastic place for an afternoon hike. With rolling hills, friendly wild ponies and stunning waterfalls, including featured Venford Falls, this is the British countryside at its best!

36. Stand Right at the Edge of the Country at Lands End

The most southernly point in mainland UK, Lands End sounds like a bit of an apocalyptic name but it is actually where many begin a South – North exploration of the country.

Looking out on the Atlantic Ocean, you can feel almost as if you’re at the end of the world – but don’t worry, once you turn eastwards you’ll be back in the gorgeous Cornish landscape!

37.Experience the tropical Eden Project

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In the heart of Cornwall is The Eden Project, two biomes which contain plants from diverse environments. The project is a source of environmental education; it encourages visitors to learn about the importance of the plants that it showcases and how they are fundamental to modern society, as well as enjoying the atmosphere of a rainforest or Mediterranean climate in the UK. It’s an interesting and unique day out for adults and children alike!

38. The Jurrasic Coast

This gorgeous rugged coastline spans Dorset and East Devon and, with rocks that are aged up to 185 million years, is one of the most geologically fascinating areas of the country.

If you’re up to the challenge, all 95 miles of the coastline can be walked (as well as the rest of the South West in the South West coast path).

It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Devon and Dorset.

Check out the Jurassic Coast  website , Facebook or Twitter for more information.

39. Museum of Witchcraft

If you’re lover of the mystical and marvellous, get down to the Museum of Witchcraft in Cornwall, the world’s largest display of anything supernatural.

Witches have a fascinating history here in the UK, with many so called ‘witches’ exisiting in communities in Medieval times, and here you can learn all about them!

40. Cheddar Gorge

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Made up of two caves, Cheddar Gorge offers a compelling amount of prehistoric history and the site is where ‘Cheddar Man’ – the skeleton Britain’s oldest man (!) was found.

The stunning caves provide an insight into ancient British history and geology.

41. Bedruthan Steps

Want to feel like you’re abroad in Cornwall? Then check out these gorgeous, Mediterranean-esque steps. Dramatically jutting out to sea in crystal blue waters, they certainly don’t look like the Great British Seaside!

42. Take a walk down Glastonbury High Street

Fancy something weird and wonderful?

Take a stroll down Britain’s hippiest high street, where most shops boast tarot cards and magic herbal supplements! Many people walking around Glastonbury will be wearing the most fantastic brightly coloured outfits – it’s a town where anything goes!

43. Hike up Glastonbury Tor

And while you’re in town, take a stroll up Glastonbury Tor! Known as the UK’s most spiritual hill, there’s plenty to marvel at at the top; a compass points you to different South-Western towns and the views of the surrounding countryside are unbeatable. It’s said that the cleansing air of the hill means that everybody comes down a changed person, too…

44. St Micheals Mount

Written by Sophie from  Solo Sophie

The Great British Bucket List

Somewhat of a hidden treasure of an island lies a little off the coast of Cornwall.

The smaller, lesser-known sibling of Mont Saint Michel in Normandy shares the same tidal characteristics as its French counterpart and has been occupied since at least 4000 BCE.

The fortified castle sitting atop of the island has been destination for royals such as Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II and is now managed by the National Trust.

45. Lulworth Cove

By Dominic from  Flashpacking Duo

Situated on the world heritage Jurassic coastline in Dorset, the stunning, secluded Lulworth cove is a must visit for anyone venturing down to South-West England.

Not only will you be greeted with some amazing views of natural beauty across the cove but also within easy walking distance you will find the famous limestone arch of Durdle Door.

You can also rent kayaks, go coasteering and explore a nearby fossil forest!

46. Dive off the West coast  with seals and basking sharks

Written by Florine from World Adventure Divers

BASKING SHARK

Encompassing beautiful field and moorland, the metropolis of Birmingham and countless smaller cities and towns, the West Midlands is an often underrated area of the country. There’s so many things to do in the West Midlands, whether they be old cities or country walks, read on to find out the pick of the best!

47.Visit Worcester Cathedral and Friar Street

Written by Helen from  Bristolian Backpacker

A wonderful cobbled street, full of shops, restaurants and a few bars and pubs to sit outside of. One of the oldest buildings ‘Grey Friars,’ dates back to the 15th century and is now a National Trust building.

Taking a stroll along the river and checking out Worcester Cathedral is a must too.

48.Hike in the Malvern Hills

Not frequented very often by tourists, these rolling hills are ideal for quintessentially British walks and picnics.

The Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is known not just for its gorgeous green fields but also its spring water, which derives from some of the many holy wells in the area.

49. Oxford University

Established in 1096, Oxford is the oldest university in the English-speaking world and the second oldest in the world – closely beaten to the title by the University of Bologna in Italy.

Visitors are welcome to explore the public areas of the university. Here, you can admire the majestic buildings of the colleges, tour the museums and libraries and even enjoy a spot of souvenir shopping!

Check out this city guide to Oxford for some great tips for the city!

50. Visit Shakespeare’s place of birth

Quite possibly the world’s most famous playwright, William Shakespeare was born and grew up in the historic town of Stratford on Avon.

On a visit here, you can look around his childhood house and learn all about the playwright who has inspired generations for centuries.

51. Cadbury World

(Spoiler: it’s not actually a town made out of chocolate. When I visited Cadbury World, aged 4 years old, I was very disappointed about this. But it’s still pretty amazing)

The international chocolate brand Cadbury was founded in Birmingham in 1824 and it has dominated the chocolate market, both in Britain and abroad, ever since.

Cadbury World is a self-guided tour where you can learn all about the history of and making of chocolate, as well as the unique Cadbury story. Learning all about Britain’s chocolate brand should be on everyone’s UK bucket list!

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From the rolling hills of the Peak District, to the exciting cities of Lincoln, Nottingham and Sheffield, the East Midlands is a diverse region, ideal for those who are seeking both adventure and culture. Read on for the top things to do in the East Midlands!

52. Chatsworth House

Written by Rachel from The Taylor Made Travels

The United Kingdom has many impressive great houses but there is something about Chatsworth that causes people to fall instantly in love with it, and continue revisiting.

Sitting in the middle of the stunning Peak District and famous for being Mr Darcy’s House in the 2005 film of Pride and Prejudice,  you can easily spend a day here exploring the house, gardens ( with its famous water fountain) and for younger explorers the adventure playground.

Enjoy a Bakewell Tart created in the local village while you sit back and admire the stunning scenery.

53. Explore the Magna Carta at Lincoln Cathedral

Written by Michaela from This FP Planet 

The Cathedral City of Lincoln is petite, and has a totally walk-able compact city center, but this charming city takes the motto ‘good things come in small packages’ seriously, and has bags to offer any tourist.

After defeating our historic ‘Steep Hill’ (as the name would suggest, it’s a fair hike!) you’ll be warmly greeted with traditional old style English pubs, cute cobbled paths, quirky boutique shops and cafes as well as the Castle grounds and Cathedral.

Any weekend tripper should include a visit the Castle to discover of of only four surviving sections of Magna Carta!

54. University of Cambridge and punting on the river

The University of Cambridge is the second oldest in the English-speaking world (second to Oxford), and was founded in 1209.

The university now boasts extraordinary architecture and fascinating educational museums which reminisce notable alumni and groundbreaking discoveries at the university.

While you’re exploring Cambridge, I highly recommend going punting too!

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The  Traditional Punting Company  offers the best  punting in Cambridge   where you’ll see the world-famous College Backs in the heart of the city.

During the tour you’ll soak up the atmosphere of the exclusive riverside Colleges, admire sublime bridges, and pass prestigious private gardens.

Expert guides will guide you along the River Cam, regaling you with Cambridge’s inspiring history and secrets of the city.

Join their VisitEngland Rose Marque tour to travel back across 800 years of Cambridge history.

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55. The Peak District

A national park in rural Derbyshire, the Peak District offers breathtaking views, charming country walks and meadows boasting some of the country’s best flora and fauna.

The unspoiled countryside is interrupted only by scenic historical villages. Where better to enjoy a countryside walk?

56. Norfolk Broads

The Norfolk Broads is a series of lakes and rivers, all merging into one another to create a fantastic navigable wetland area. The Broads span over 303 kilometers and are perfect for boating and lakeside activities.

The area has been coined ‘Britain’s Magical Wetland’ and makes for a perfect rural day out.

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Revelling in some of the best British seaside, and enjoying lakes, mountains and moorland, the North West is a fascinating area of the country. Despite being diverse and containing some of the most remote things to do in England, it is easily driveable, and can be explored by train or car. 

57. Boat Cruise of Lake Windermere

Written by Rachel from  Taylor Made Travels

Taking a cruise of the largest natural lake in England will provide views of some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK, which provided inspiration for Beatrix Potter’s stories.

You can choose whether to take a quick boat ride around some of the lakes islands or spend the day stopping off at the various villages surrounding the lakes to sample the local delicacies and meander the winding streets.

58. Hike the Yorkshire Dales

Written by Maria from  Global Brunch

The Yorkshire Dales offer countless scenic hiking routes for various fitness levels. Walk along the lush green hills and enjoy the views of Yorkshire’s most stunning National Park.

Have a picnic along the way and enjoy some wild strawberries or stop at a traditional pub for a refreshing pint; a very quintessentially British item on your UK bucket list!

59. The Beatles Tour

The best-selling music group ‘The Beatles’ were born in Liverpool, and here you can explore more of their history through The Beatles experience, visit some of their childhood homes and grab some food in the Cavern Club.

After The Beatles Tour, there’s still a lot more to explore in Liverpool: learn more about the huge impact the city had on British music, industry and immigration at the Museum of Liverpool or the impact the Titanic had on the city at the Merseyside Maritime Museum, while not forgetting to leave some time for the excellent shopping at the Liverpool One.

Want to discover more of the Beatles’ home city? Here’s the best things to do in Liverpool by Naomi from Probe Around the Globe!

60. Bolton Abbey

Written by Steph from  Big World Small Pockets

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Bolton Abbey in North Yorkshire is the site of some incredible 12th Century Monastery ruins set among beautiful gardens.

We often used to go here on Sundays when I was studying in Leeds and I loved the feeling of being out in the wild countryside that this place offered.

There are some great walking trails to enjoy here and throughout the grounds, a sense of magic and mystery pervades.

61. See the Blackpool Illuminations

By Rachel from  Taylor Made Travels

For a few weeks every Autumn, Blackpool becomes ‘The Vegas of the North’, with over 1 million bulbs lighting up the promenade of this Northern beach resort.

The best way to see this free light show it to take one of the trams along the promenade and then walk back while enjoying a dinner of fish and chips or a pie barm (bread with a meat and potato pie in the middle) and for pudding some traditional Blackpool Rock.

Come during the day and brave the Big One at Blackpool Pleasure Beach Theme Park or head up the Blackpool Tower to get great views over the surrounding area.

62. Castle Howard

Written by  Rachel Nicole

Castle Howard is a beautiful stately home on the outskirts of York.

The house is open daily to the public and makes for a lovely day out for all the family. From the stunning interior of the house to the 1,000 acres of woodland, there’s something for everyone to discover here.

The estate plays host to many events all year round; such as local markets and proms in the park, and the Christmas decorations are a must-see!

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Check out the ancient city of York, or the renowned nightlife of Newcastle for a proper North Eastern experience! This area of the country enjoys unique museums and plenty of traditional things to do and see. Read on for the best things to do in North East England!

63. Walk the historic city walls in York

Written by Vivian from  Miss Happy Feet

Passing through medieval walls and the city gates, you will get a fantastic view over the city along the way.

The historic walk is free but a guided tour is highly recommended if you would like to know more about the significance of the walls in the early days.

Stop at the Gatehouse Coffee at Walmgate if you need a break!

64. Afternoon tea at Bettys Tea Room

Afternoon Tea is the very essence of British elegance and tea culture and there is no better place to enjoy this tradition than the famous Bettys Tea Rooms in York, a little piece of heaven for anybody with a sweet tooth.

65. A day by the seaside in Whitby

Whitby is not only famous for being the inspiration of Bram Stokers great novel Dracula but also for it’s fresh and delicious Fish & Chips. What better place to dig in to the famous English dish then at the seaside?

66. Wensleydale Cheese Museum

You can’t come to Britiain without finding out how British cheese is made, can you?

There’s a visitor centre, creamery and museum right in the heart of the town with the same name.

You’ll discover how the cheese was made throughout the centuries and get to observe old cheese making equipment! And yes, there’s lots of cheese up for grabs….

67. Experience the Newcastle Nightlife

Love it or hate it, it’s fair to say that nowhere does nightlife quite like Newcastle, Britain’s most northern main city. Here, the drinks are cheap and everyone is super cheerful – until the next morning, that is!

68. Hadrian’s Wall

Originally sprawling coast to coast, this defensive wall was built in AD 122 by 15,000 men and work was completed in just 6 years.

At its time of use, it marked the end of the Holy Roman Empire. Today, much of the wall still remains and it is possible to follow the trail on foot by taking the Hadrian’s Wall Path .

69. Get an Ice Cream at Scarborough’s Harbour Bar

Written by Jen from  She Gets Around A visit to a true British seaside town isn’t complete with some fish and chips or an ice cream. Scarborough has the best of both, with Harry Ramsden’s Fish and Chips and the best ice cream sundae in the country at The Harbour Bar .

This family-run ice cream cafe has been open since 1945 and has barely changed in over 70 years. Whether it is a towering Knickerbocker Glory or Banana Sundae they have everything your ice cream heart desires. An absolute must for tradition, fun and 1940s glamour.

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With absolutely stunning views and landscapes, is easy to believe that Scotland could very well be enchanted.

With an array of charming islands, bustling cities and beautiful glens and lakes, there is ample to keep you occupied in the most Northern part of the UK; here’s some unique things to do in Scotland that you should add to your UK bucket list right away!

70. Shetland Islands

By Sonja from Migrating Miss

SHETLAND

Closer to Bergen in Norway than London, this group of over 100 islands has been home of various groups of people since pre-histroic times.

Amongst the barren but beautiful landscape, you can see amazing historical sites there like Jarlshof, which show the remains of houses dating back to the Bronze Age.

Visit Shetland during the summer to experience all day sun, or visit in January to experience the Up Helly Aa fire festival and a chance at seeing the Northern Lights.

71. Glen Coe

Written by Sonja from Migrating Miss

GLEN COE

There are generally two ways to head north in Scotland, and I recommend the route that takes you through Glen Coe.

The remains of a super volcano have left behind some of the most breathtaking scenery. Don’t miss the Three Sisters, three rugged mountain ridges next to each other.

If you have the time, take a walk through arguably the most famous and beautiful Glen in Scotland.

72. The Commando Memorial, Spean Bridge

By Sonja from  Migrating Miss

COMMANDO MEMORIAL

This monument just north of Fort William honours the elite Commando Soldiers, many of whom lost their lives in WWII and whose ashes are buried here, along with those of contemporary Commandos who have fought in more recent times.

The Commando Memorial depicts soldiers overlooking their old training ground and on to Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles.

73. West Highland Way

Written by Gemma from  Two Scots Abroad

West Highland Way - Two Scots Abroad

One of the best ways to see Scotland is on foot!

The West Highland Way is a 96 mile trek which starts just outside of Glasgow and ends in Fort William (with lots of stops along the way!) Hikers trek over mountains, through farms, and alongside lochs – the true beauty of Scotland!

74. The North Coast 500

Written by Toccara from  Forget Someday

North Coast 500 Beach

This is a 500-mile circular drive starting and ending in Inverness, Scotland.

This drive takes you along stunning coastlines and countless lochs.

You’ll navigate through winding mountain passes and awe-inspiring landscapes. Step back in time as you visit castles, historic ruins, and heritage centers. Tantalize your tastebuds as you sip award-winning whiskies, taste deliciously organic beer, and sample some of the Highland’s local delicacies.

With numerous trails to hike, beaches to explore, and history to discover, there is certainly no shortage of things to do and see along this award-winning route around Scotland’s northern Highlands.

75. Ben Nevis

The highest mountain in the British Isles, the summit of Ben Nevis offers a compelling ascent to experienced climbers.

Even if you’re not as apt at climbing, many walks can be enjoyed at the often snow-covered mountain. Gorgeous vistas of the Scottish highlands are enjoyed on the mountain, with access to the now ruined observatory, which was used to keep a watch over the area. Climbing Ben Nevis is an essential part of every Scotland road trip itinerary !

76.Loch Lubnaig

By Florine from World Adventure Divers

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In the heart of the Trossachs National Park, near Callander, Loch Lubnaig is one of the prettiest lochs in Scotland. Kayak lovers and Fishing addicts will usually be found enjoying its peaceful waters surrounded by the hills of Ben Ledi and Ben Vorlich.

77. Diving the historical wrecks of WWI of Scapa Flow, Orkney

By Florine from  World Adventure Divers

DIVING

Did you know Britain has the most famous wreck diving site in Europe?

At the end of WWI, fearing to surrender their fleet to the British Army, the German decided to scuttle their 74 ships located in Orkney.

Thanks to the cold water, adventurous scuba divers come from all over the world to explore these exceptionally well-preserved shipwrecks.

78. Puck’s Glen

By Toccara from Forget Someday

Puck's Glen (22)

Puck’s Glen opened to visitors as Britain’s first forest park in 1935. It is named after Puck, a mischievous spirit who haunts many legends and appears in William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Puck’s Glen Gorge Trail is a strenuous path that cuts through the dramatically rocky gorge.  This 1.75 mile (2.8 km) trail takes visitors past several waterfalls and beneath towering Douglas firs. It’s like walking through a fairytale!

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Less than an hour of driving away from Glasgow, Luss is the best stopover to explore Loch Lomond National Park.  Walking through the adorable village of Luss will offer stunning views of the largest Loch in Britain.

From the pontoon, you can embark on a boat trip around the numerous islands on the loch.

80. Dunnottar Castle

Written by Lauren from Craving Sunshine Dunnottar Castle is a stunning ruined clifftop medieval fortress, 18.5 miles south of Aberdeen and 2.6 miles south of the seaside village of Stonehaven.

This breathtaking castle has been the backdrop for films such as Shakespeare’s  Hamlet starring Mel Gibson and more recently Victor Frankenstein starring Daniel Radcliffe & James Mcavoy.

Rumour has it that Dunnottar also inspired Merida’s home in Disney’s Brave . Dunnottar is definitely one of the best castles in Scotland and is well worth a visit.

81. John O Groats

876 miles from Lansend in Cornwall, John O Groats is the furthest North inhabited point in the UK, and is popular with travellers in England as either the start or finish of a British journey.

But it’s not just the title of ‘The Far North’ that makes this place worth visiting; come here to catch a glimpse of Atlantic puffins, grey seals and killer whales, take amazing boat trips and marvel at the gorgeous, unspoilt scenery.

John O Groats is not actually the furthest North point in the UK – nearby, less famous, Dunnet Head is higher up. There’s not much to see here, but if you really want to go to the end of the world, it’s worth visiting Dunnet Head too!

82. Faerie Glen, Isle of Skye

A gorgeous landscape, which many deem to be ‘supernatural’, the Faerie Glen comprises natural pools, gently sloping hills and miniature waterfalls.

Many people note the magical feeling they are graced with from a visit to the glen, and each visit engrosses an element of surprise and mystery.

83. Loch Ness

Written by Kimmie from  Adventures & Sunsets

LOCH NESS

Loch Ness is a the lake in the Scottish highlands which is rumoured to be where ‘The Loch Ness monster” (Nessie) lives. There are many boat tours to ‘look’ for the monster and also a very historic castle along its waters called Urquhart.

84. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle stands on the skyline of the Scottish capital on Castle Rock, where an edifice has stood since the 12 th century.

It has played a pivotal role in Scottish development throughout the centuries, and is now is home to the crown jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg, a 15th-century gun.

You can take guided tours of the castle or enjoy an audio tour. Edinburgh’s a fantastic city with loads to explore and there are lots of day trips from Edinburgh that aren’t to be missed.

There are loads of other things to do in Scotland that aren’t featured on this list. Check out these fifty useful travel tips for Glasgow  or the best things to do in Stirling !

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Just to the west of England lays this often-forgotten about area of the UK. There are so many things to do in Wales; the south of the country boasts exotic beaches and charming rolling hills while the north of the country enjoys colourful towns and a fascinating language!

Visit Wales to experience a culture like no other and add some of these experiences to your UK bucket list!

85. South Stack Lighthouse

Written by Kimmie from Adventures & Sunsets

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On the Anglesey coastline is this stunning lighthouse. Placed on top of a patch of grass on a rocky hill, the bright white lighthouse beacons from afar and revels in a postcard-perfect view.

86. Portmeirion

Written by Anne-Sophie from City Cookie

Portmeirion is a little town in North Wales that looks like it belongs in Italy. It’s an explosion of colours and architectural styles, with bright turquoise shutters, pretty pink hydrangeas and exotic palm trees. Stay at the hotel to swim in the most amazing swimming pool by the river (it starred in a Ted Baker ad !).

87. St Fagan’s Museum of Welsh life

Written by Kacie from The Rare Welsh Bit

Photo Credit St Fagans National History Museum

One of Europe’s best open-air museums and Wales’ most popular heritage attraction; if you grew up in Wales then you can guarantee you went to St Fagans Museum on a school trip at least once!

Established in 1947, St Fagans Museum is home to a Welsh village created using over 40 original buildings from various historical periods in Wales, transported from their original locations and re-erected on the 100-acre parkland. 

The full list of buildings at St Fagans includes a bakery, tollhouse, tailor’s workshop, school-house, a post office and traditional farm houses as well as livestock. The buildings have been chosen because of their relevance to ordinary people from different social backgrounds and from different eras.

88. Snowdon (Snowdonia National Park)

By Carly from Girl Out of Bounds

SnowdoniaNP

It’s the tallest mountain in both Wales and England and part of the popular Three Peaks Challenge.

If you’re not up for hiking to the top but you still want to see the pretty panoramic view, you can hitch a ride on the Snowdon Mountain Railway!

89. Beddgelert

By Carly from Girl Out Of Bounds This is a picturesque town build completely on lore. It is said to be the resting place of Gelert, the loyal hound of the medieval Prince Llewelyn.

I won’t spoil the story, but it’s worth a visit. You can read the lore at Gelert’s grave, a short walk from the town centre.

90.The Smallest House in Great Britain

Located in Conwy, Wales, the smallest house in Great Britain is known as the Quay House and has a floor area of 3.05 by 1.8 metres and a height of 3.1 metres. It was a residence until 1900 – when the tenant was evicted because the council declared the house unfit for human habitation!

The house is owned by the last tenant’s descendants and is now open for visitors, with information and history about the house inside.

91. Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantsysiliogogogoch Train Station

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It’s the village with Europe’s longest name (which is unsurprising), and visitors flock from far just to get a snap of the crazy station sign! The village is located on the island of Anglesea, across the strait from Bangor.

The name translates to “Saint Mary’s Church in a hollow of white hazel near the swirling whirlpool of the church of Saint Tysilio with a red cave”. Easy to remember, right?

92. Gower Peninsula

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The Gower Peninsula was the UK’s first AONB in 1956 and it stil remains just as stunning today. It boasts moors, limestone cliffs and stunning golden beaches.

A place for surfing or hiking the Wales Coast Path, it’s a fantastic spot to enjoy some of the best scenery Britain has to offer.

93. Brecon Beacons

A South Wales mountain range, Brecon Beacons offer a range of hiking, rock climbing and abseiling opportunities. Enjoy an active day amongst the regions highest peaks, and a relaxing night stargazing in this rural area of the country.

94. Barry Island

Barry Island is a seaside resort town in the Vale of Glamorgan, home to a nationally famous pleasure park ,which has operated as such since the Victorian times. Come here to enjoy some timeless rides in a fantastic British seaside atmosphere.

95. Ogmore Beach

Written by Elaine from  Runaway Brit

Ogmore-by-Sea is a small sea-facing village that can be found on the South Wales coast between Cardiff and Swansea. The beach is a sweeping arc of rocky pre-jurassic carboniferous limestone, in which the sand is only exposed at low-tide. Nearby, you can visit Dunraven Bay, or Southerndown beach, where a great deal of Doctor Who is filmed.  

The sand dunes are the scene of a daring WW2 prisoner escape story – 86 German Prisoners of War escaped through a 70 feet tunnel from Island Farm POW camp (set amongst the sand dunes) in 1945. Apparently, parts of Laurence of Arabia were filmed in these sand dunes.

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Don’t forget about the land across the sea! Northern Ireland is a distinctly unique part of the UK, and contains some of the nations’ best beaches and most picturesque scenery, along with the busy city of Belfast, among others! Here’s some of the best things to do in Northern Ireland…

96. Giant’s Causeway

A UNESCO world heritage site, Giant’s Causeway is located off the coast of County Antrim and is formed of 40,000 basalt columns, which are told to be the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. It is known as the fourth greatest natural wonder of the UK. Legend has it that the columns are a causeway built by a giant; constructed so two Irish and Scottish giants could meet and fight. Even if this isn’t true, there’s certainly a strong sense of mythology here!

97. Game of Thrones filming location

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If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you can enjoy filming locations all over Northern Ireland; and even if you’re not, there’s some absolutely jaw-dropping places in this region that tell a thousand stories!

The best to check out are the eerie dark hedges, a row of trees that were planted by the Stuart Family in the eighteenth century.

They were built to look compelling and intriguing and still remain fascinating to this day.

98. Drive the causeway coastal route

This coastal road traverses the 120 mile distance between Belfast and Londonderry and is widely known as one of the most beautiful drives in Europe. The drive explores coastal roads and mountains; coming together to offer a breath-taking and compelling journey.

99. Ulster Museum

Located in the Northern Irish capital city, the Ulster Museum is the largest museum in the region and features a huge amount of exhibitions and artefacts from Ireland and beyond, over the centuries.

Here is the perfect place to educate yourself in the history and culture of this nation!

100. Belfast Black Taxi Tour

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This Belfast-based cab company can really show you around Northern Ireland’s capital! The guides have over 28 years of driving experience and have picked up random facts that you won’t get anywhere else. Take a Belfast black taxi tour for a real insight into this fascinating city!

And remember to explore downtown Belfast, which includes the Titanic Experience , when you’re done!

Once you’ve finished exploring these, check out this awesome list of unique things to do in Ireland , which includes both attractions in Northern Ireland and in the neighbouring Republic of Ireland!

Your Great British Packing List

Your Great British packing list will be quite similar to that of any Europe trip. We have mild summers and cool winters, but don’t often get snow!

british tourist attractions a z

There you have it, the very best things to do in Great Britain! Would you add anything else to this Great British Bucket List? Which of these have you visited and loved? Which one is top of your ‘to go to’ list? Let me know in the comments below!

Hey! I’m on YouTube too!

I’m currently travelling from Bali to London without taking a single flight! I’m documenting my journey on YouTube and would love it if you could follow me there! Here is a video detailing the journey a bit more:

Click here to go to my channel – I’d love it if you subscribed and joined the community! If you enjoyed this article, please share it or follow me on Facebook ! Pin me and save for later!

Planning a trip to the UK? This UK bucket list covers all of the best things to do in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. If you are searching for the best British attractions; be they museums in London, national parks in northern England or hiking destinations in Scotland, this list of the best things to do in Britain has got you covered! Click through to check it out and start ticking those bucket list destinations off! #greatbritain #bucketlist

87 thoughts on “ The Great UK Bucket List: 100 things to do in the UK ”

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Hell of a list. So many things, so little time. I just crossed off some things from my bucket list in London. The incredible National Gallery and British Museum. You can just spend days in these warehouses of art. And the best part is: they are Free. So you walk in, walk out and savour art like a good glass of Bordeaux: with little sips. Keep rocking. Rik

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This is a very big complete list of the things to see in GB. You did a very good job, thank you for this. I really want to see the white cliff and the beach houses look so cute!

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great list! I’m saving this post!:)I I’ve done a few of these places:)

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Wicked list! I have spent some time in England, studying in London, with a trip to Wales and Ireland. But I haven’t made a dent in this list, so I think I’ll have to go back for a more comprehensive visit!!

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Wow – Fantastic list! Clearly, we need to clear more time on our calendars to see everything!! 🙂

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Wow what a comprehensive list! Great post it’s true we are so lucky to have so many wonderful places to visit in the UK. We love jumping in our camper van and heading somewhere new so this has given us a few new ideas. Thanks very much!

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I’m bookmarking this for later, great list! Hopefully I can make it to the U.K. sometime soon 🙂

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I was born in the UK and I would encourage anyone planning a visit to head ‘up north’ rather than staying around London. The hebrides in Scotland are fantastic – head up to Oban then hop across on the ferry to Mull. York and Harrogate are also fantastic, as well as the Peak District including Castleton, Eyam, and Buxton.

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I have seen so much less of the North than I should have! I’m going to save all of these for future reference. Thanks very much for your comment! 🙂

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Wao such a long list. England is such a nice place to visit with some wonderful attractions and nice places to visit in England. One of my personal favorite is Buckingham Palace. It is one of the few working royal palaces remaining in the world today. The lavishly decorated State Rooms of the Palace are open to visitors during the summer months, and you can visit all year round to see the famous Changing the Guard.

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Wow what a wounder full list! Great post and i am so lucky to have so many wonderful places to visit in the UK. because soon i am going to UK for the sake of studies i will visit all these places..Thank you so much sharing

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You missed out Chester. Chester was founded as a “castrum” or Roman fort with the name Deva Victrix in the reign of the Emperor Vespasian in 79 AD. One of the main army camps in Roman Britain, Deva later became a major civilian settlement. … Chester is one of the best preserved walled cities in Britain. Chester is one of the most beautiful historic cities in England, famous for its galleried rows, Roman remains, shops & boutiques, the town crier, ghost walks and complete city walls. Chester’s Rows are covered walkways at the first floor in each of the city’s four main streets, are unique not only in Britain but everywhere is the world. They have allowed double level shopping in the town at least since the 13th Century. It has a Cathedral, the original church was built in the Romanesque or Norman style, parts of which can still be seen today. This church was subsequently rebuilt from around 1250 onward in the Gothic style, a process which took about 275 years an resulted in the incredible structure seen today.

With the most complete set of monastic buildings in the country, a Georgian square and series of streets, the remains of Roman barracks on the Dean’s field and the largest open green spaces within the walls, visitors can eperience everything the cathedral has to offer.

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Nothing for East Anglia as far as I can tell but, as I’m now discovering via a photographic ‘project’ (website will very soon be updated for this), it has its own unique wonders, albeit a little different from elsewhere. Just as examples, Brancaster & Holcombe Beaches on the north norfolk coast (catch those huge skies and, when the tide is out, vast expanses of wildness) and the sea wall walk from Tollesbury to Heybridge along the River Blackwater in essex taking in Osea Island (lots of history about that) – the salt marshes, the oyster beds. Wild and, in a way, quite ‘strange’ with a kind of spooky feeling in certain weather.

Sounds lovely! I’ll have to check out that part of the country one day. Not too far from where I live. I remember reading about Osea Island in one of my old jobs!

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WOW wonder ful article. 7th, 34th, 37th were my favorite.

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Wow, your comprehensive article helps me a lot. There are some places never I thought before. Thanks and keep posting Claire, you’re a wonder woman hha

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Hello Claire. I thoroughly enjoyed your article however, having lived in many parts of the UK I hope you won’t take it amiss if I mention some of the places you have not included (or I didn’t notice). Let’s start in my home town of Kingston-Upon-Hull which was a very large fishing port, and very badly bombed, city when I lived there in the 40’s and early 50’s. It is now one of the cultural hubs of the north of England crammed with museums, architectural and maritime attractions. Well worth a visit. Next is Portsmouth where I lived through my teens. The view over The Solent from the top of Portsdown Hill is spectacular wherever on that hilltop one views from. Also on the hilltop is Fort Nelson, one of four ‘Follies’ built to protect Portsmouth Harbour and it’s surroundings, which can be visited. Other ‘follies’ are the Solent forts of which I believe there are four but I know only of three the foremost being Spitbank Fort, now a hotel. An easy walk over the hill from Portsmouth is the village of Southwick and Southwick House (used to be HMS Dryad – named after an 18th century frigate). It was here that General Eisenhower and his team planned D-Day. I understand the Revival Tours around the site are to begin again in 2021 but it should be noted that tickets sell out very, very fast. Last but not least is Portchester Castle, a Roman fort where I played as a child but which is now National Trust and where many go to picnic. Next is Cruden Bay, North Aberdeenshire where I brought up my family. It would take a book to mention all the interesting places, sights, and golf courses in the area so I’ll stay close to Cruden Bay itself which is about 9 miles south of Peterhead. The bay has a 2½ mile almost flat, wide, golden-sand beach from where the first flight to Norway took off. Cruden Bay golf course used to be one of the top 100. I don’t know what it is now but to play there recently people travelled to Peterhead on cruise ships. On the outskirts of Cruden Bay is Slains Castle. It is said Bram Stoker used this as the basis for Dracula which he wrote mainly while staying in the Kilmarnock Hotel in the village. It should be noted that Whitby, where Bram stoker also stayed and wrote, makes the same claim. Near Cruden Bay is the Bullers of Buchan, a hamlet of about 12 houses around a sea-pot with spectacular explosive views when the sea is running in the right direction. I now live near Ayr, South Ayrshire, the home of Robert Burns (his home is actually in very nearby Alloway). Though it may appear a bit ‘out in the sticks’ Ayr is very well served by inexpensive road and rail connections from Glasgow and as well as Burns has much more to offer. It’s 1½ mile very well kept beach is like Cruden Bay – flat, golden sand from where can be seen the Isle of Arran, Argyl & Bute, and Ailsa Craig – one of only two places where the granite for curling stones is found but only Ailsa Craig granite is used for olympic curling stones.. Nearby are Culzean Castle which welcomes visitors, has some excellent forest walks, and was lent to Eisenhower as his lifetime Scottish ‘home-from-home’. And Dumfries House (owned by the Prince of Wales). Its large grounds are open 365 days a year and one can stay in the house with open access to the sitting rooms, dining room and garden area. Ayr is also the home of an annual Whisky festival – usually the second Saturday in June, and South Ayrshire has many scenic walks to walk of the whisky, and scenic drives for those who did not imbibe! Ayr is also a good place to stay for those who prefer to stay out of cities but near enough to make visiting easy. Glasgow is 45-60 minutes by frequent train service, and Edinburgh is about 2½ hours.

Thanks for the long comment! Of course, feel free to include these too 🙂 I wrote this post about 5 years ago so it probably needs updating! Hopefully others will read your comment and add some of these places to their list too!

Comments are closed.

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19 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jun 8, 2023

Consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom (UK) has long been one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. For most travelers, like me, the country's appeal has as much to do with its diverse scenery as it does its rich cultural heritage. In fact, the best places to visit in the UK include everything from beautifully preserved country estates and picturesque castles to its many big city art galleries and museums.

London Bridge

You'll find one of the greatest pleasures of a UK vacation, however, is just how easy it is for you to explore this fascinating, diverse, and relatively small country. The UK could easily fit into the state of Texas with room to spare, so you can base yourself in a couple of cities and simply take a train, bus, or ferry to explore other areas.

One of my favorite day trips from London , for example, is to take the 90-minute train ride to beautiful Salisbury . Once there, you're only a short bus ride or tour away from one of the country's most recognizable attractions, Stonehenge. Want to hop between the Scottish cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow ? A one-hour train ride will deposit you in the heart of either city.

Sure, the UK can seem like a very busy travel destination. But plan your sightseeing adventures carefully with my list of the best places to visit in the UK and you'll have no problem making the most of your time.

1. London: The UK's All-in-One Destination

2. edinburgh: scotland's capital, 3. roman-era bath, 4. ancient stonehenge and medieval salisbury, 5. royal windsor, 6. idyllic england: the cotswolds, 7. the magical lake district, 8. medieval york and its minster, 9. the university towns of cambridge & oxford, 10. england's pilgrimage city: canterbury, 11. loch ness and inverness, 12. northern ireland's giant's causeway, 13. liverpool: home of the beatles, 14. manchester: england's football mad city, 15. cardiff: the capital of wales, 16. the channel islands, 17. glasgow & loch lomond, 18. snowdonia: wales' biggest mountains, 19. belfast.

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament on the banks of the River Thames

While it's possible to plan a trip to the UK without actually visiting London, it's certainly not a recommendation I'd make. I typically begin my UK visits by spending a few days in the nation's sprawling capital while getting over my jet lag before venturing out to my planned final destination (or destinations).

There are plenty of attractions to keep you busy. Want to learn more about the UK's rich history? You're literally spoiled for choice here as London boasts more than 200 world-class museums and art galleries to explore.

In the City of London, the heart of the old Roman city, you'll find evidence of pretty much every period in history ever since. Some of the top attractions in London are located here, including the Tower of London .

Located beside the spectacular Tower Bridge on the banks of the River Thames , this former palace and prison includes highlights such as the iconic 1,000-year-old White Tower, with its fascinating displays of armor and weaponry, and the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels. I always make a return visit at sunrise or sunset to grab an iconic photo of the Tower of London framed by Tower Bridge.

If you're a fan of Britain's Royal Family, you'll want to head to Buckingham Palace , London's Royal home since Queen Victoria's reign. Here, you can enjoy the colorful pomp of the Changing of the Guard or even take a tour of the Palace's State Rooms. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book in advance as they're only open for a few weeks each year.

From here you can wander along the Thames to the city's Whitehall Road area. Here you'll find Big Ben and the Parliament Buildings , as well as Westminster Abbey, the scene of many a royal wedding.

Another area to visit in London is South Kensington, home to the city's best museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum , as well as the famous Harrods department store. Also check out Trafalgar Square , home to the iconic Nelson's Column and the National Portrait Gallery.

And be sure to make the most of London's excellent transport system. Whether you go by bus or by underground, the system's now so good that you can simply use a debit or credit card to tap in and out as you go. It really is very easy, and once you've mastered that famous map of the city's "Tube" network you'll be traveling like a Londoner.

Edinburgh

One of the UK's most attractive cities, the capital city of Edinburgh is also one of the UK's most visited destinations. Popular for its many well-preserved historic buildings, Edinburgh is perhaps best known as the home of the majestic Edinburgh Castle .

Perched high above the old city on a rocky promontory, this 13th-century royal fortress includes highlights such as the famous One O'Clock Salute, held daily at Half Moon Battery, as well as the Scottish Crown Jewels in the Royal Palace . Also worth seeing are the Scottish National War Memorial and the famous Stone of Destiny , the Stone of Scone, which only returned to Scotland after being held for 700 years in London.

From the castle, I always find it easy to explore the other most important historic sites in the city. Follow your nose downhill from the castle to the Old Town via the famous Royal Mile , a delightful medieval cobbled street that's immensely fun to walk. Sure, there are plenty of the usual tacky tourist and souvenir shops, but skip these and look out for the area's fine old architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants, as well as trendy art galleries and studios.

Edinburgh Old Town is also where you'll find the splendid old Palace of Holyroodhouse . From here, I usually make my way to Princes Street and New Town before looping back around to the castle. This broad, more modern avenue was planned in the late 18th century and is extremely popular for its shopping and dining opportunities. It's also where you'll find attractions such as the Royal Botanical Garden and the National Gallery of Scotland.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Edinburgh

Roman Baths

Although one of the UK's smaller cities, Bath more than makes up for its diminutive size with a multitude of things to see and do . Named after its famous Roman Baths, this beautiful city has been luring visitors like you and me to its healing waters for more than 2,000 years.

Gushing from three hot springs, the water-known to consist of 43 different minerals, hence its curative properties-travels upwards some 3,048 meters at a rate of 275,000 gallons per day, before spilling out at a consistent 46.5 degrees Celsius. It's a truly awesome sight, and also a little eerie to think that you're standing just feet away from the very hot springs that Romans and early Britons enjoyed some 2,000 years before you got here.

While it's not possible to bathe in the original Roman Baths (try it and you'll be arrested!), a number of nearby spas, most notably the modern Thermae Bath Spa , offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the city's famous waters. This must-do experience features a stunning rooftop pool using the same waters as the Roman Baths, and all with incredible views of city landmarks such as Bath Abbey .

Bath

In addition to its ancient history, Bath is also famous for its lovely Georgian architecture. The best examples can be seen along the magnificent, curved Royal Crescent, with its palatial townhomes. One of them, No.1 Royal Crescent , is now a museum that offers a fascinating peek into life during Georgian times.

While Bath is served by the same London rail service as the neighboring port city of Bristol , it's one of those increasingly forward-thinking cities that makes it easy for car drivers, too. My most recent visit in the summer of 2022 was via car, and I avoided traffic and hassle by parking at the extremely affordable Landsdowne Park and Ride facility on the outskirts of the city. Not only is it inexpensive with plenty of availability, but regular bus services will also whisk you away to the heart of the city in just 10 minutes.

Read More: From London to Bath: Best Ways to Get There

Stonehenge

One of the planet's oldest World Heritage Sites , Stonehenge has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 4,500 years. It was believed to have been erected as a place of worship, but these days, the crowds consist of tourists drawn by the sheer scale of this magnificent monument to mankind's ingenuity.

It's a sprawling site, covering an area of more than 20 square kilometers and boasting a state-of-the-art visitor center. Here, you can catch a fascinating glimpse not only into the construction of Stonehenge but also its history since then.

But it does get busy, so be sure to plan well ahead and purchase a timed ticket for the day of your visit. Better still, splurge a little on one of the attraction's new VIP admission packages . This unforgettable experience guarantees your spot on a fun "Stone Circle Experience" that includes free time to wander the site on your own. The verdict? It's a must-do.

Be sure to also spend time exploring the nearby medieval city of Salisbury , located just 16 kilometers south of Stonehenge. You'll be rewarded with a chance to visit one of the country's most famous cathedrals, dating back to 1220 and home to an original Magna Carta .

Afterward, spend time wandering the old city center with its many fine churches and historic medieval architecture. Not only are there a number of first-rate places to stay here (I'm partial to the Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel for its central location and 4-star quality and cleanliness), but great little intimate eateries like the Cosy Club on Crane Street. The food here is home-cooked, locally sourced, tasty... and served in an extremely patriotic British setting.

Read More: From London to Stonehenge: Best Ways to Get There

Windsor Castle

The historic town of Windsor, conveniently located a short train ride west of Central London, offers plenty of fun attractions for tourists . In addition to its lovely Thames-side setting and the many medieval half-timbered buildings along its quaint old cobblestone laneways, it's also home to spectacular Windsor Castle , the most famous of the UK's royal castles.

This grand old castle has served as the summer residence of British royalty for more than a millennium. It was started by William the Conqueror in 1078 and is the world's largest inhabited castle. Highlights include the splendid State Apartments containing the Queen's Gallery and dining hall, each with magnificently painted ceilings and woodcarvings, and St. George's Chapel, famous as the home of the Knights and Ladies of the ancient Order of the Garter.

When you've had your fill of these historic buildings, be sure to also spend time exploring the castle's large and beautiful grounds, almost 10 kilometers long. You'll enjoy some truly memorable panoramic views over Windsor and its castle, and a number of picnic areas, some with barbecue grills, are available if you want to stop awhile.

Traveling with kids? Another area attraction worth visiting is Legoland Windsor . This fun family resort, set on 150 acres of parkland and just a short bus ride from Windsor town center, even boats a modern Lego-themed hotel if you're looking to make a weekend of it.

Also worth seeing is Royal Ascot , the UK's most famous horse-racing venue. While you might want to try to time your trip to coincide with the Royal Meeting held each June, you'll find yourself fighting often huge crowds, all dressed to the nines, here for what is after all one of the most important events on the country's social calendar.

Read More: From London to Windsor: Best Ways to Get There

Village of Castle Combe in the Cotswolds

Covering almost 1,287 square kilometers of charming countryside, the beautiful Cotswolds is undoubtedly one of the most photographed corners of England. Its unrivaled pastoral scenery has earned it a reputation as one of the most beautiful places in the UK, ranking highly on many a traveler's bucket list.

Easy to get to from London and close to the popular tourist attractions of Bath and Bristol , the Cotswolds includes some of the best parts of the counties of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire.

Why visit? Well, if you're anything like me, you're here to experience a true taste of rural English life and explore its many quaint villages . You'll want to include the idyllic village of Bourton-on-the-Water on your Cotswolds itinerary. Nicknamed the "Venice of the Cotswolds," this popular vacation spot boasts a charming river setting and countless well-preserved cottages, some dating back to the 15th century, and all just begging to be photographed.

One of the most popular ways to do this is via the area's extensive trail network, including the excellent 164-kilometer-long Cotswold Way. Other fun things to do include horseback riding and biking, or simply soaking up the history of popular market towns such as Castle Combe or Tetbury.

View over the Lake District

Located in the northeast of England not far from the border with Scotland , the spectacular Lake District in Cumbria covers an area of 1,448 square kilometers. Not only is it considered one of the most magical places to visit in the UK for its beautiful scenery, its reputation as a place of romance and great culture will forever be associated with its most famous former resident, Beatrix Potter.

It was Potter who in fact led the way with the conservation efforts that have preserved so much of the Lake District when she bequeathed her estate to the National Trust. Her one-time home near Sawrey, Hill Top , can and should be visited for its exhibits and artifacts.

Stone buildings in a Cotswold village

Her legacy also set the stage for the establishment of Lake District National Park . Encompassing 12 of the country's largest lakes including Windermere and Ullswater, the two biggest and best known, this beautiful region is another famous place in the UK that's great to explore on foot. All told the park boasts more than 3,218 kilometers of hiking and walking trails, so be sure to pack your hiking boots.

Other things to do in the Lake District include visiting Scafell Pike , at 978 meters the highest mountain in England. And, of course, there is no end of picturesque towns and villages to explore, including Grasmere .

Read More: From London to the Lake District: Best Ways to Get There

Medieval York and its Minster

One of northern England's most popular tourist destinations, the medieval city of York, long the ecclesiastical capital of the Church of England, boasts one of the country's most magnificent cathedrals. The country's largest medieval church, York Minster can trace its roots back to the spread of Christianity in the 3rd century, although the splendid present Gothic structure was built almost 1,000 years later.

One of the best ways to get to see this historic landmark is via an official guided tour . I recommend you book in advance, and spend a little time reviewing the available choices to find one best suited to your interests. I opted for the fascinating "Tower Trip" option, a little more expensive but well worth the cost for the magnificent city views.

Other highlights of a visit to York Minster include seeing its spectacular 14th-century stained glass windows, plus the richly decorated interiors of the choir and north transept. You'll also want to visit the crypt, which contains parts of the original 11th-century church the cathedral now stands on.

Another York landmark worth exploring is the historic City Walls . I make a point of strolling this nearly five-kilometer-long structure each and every time I visit the city. Not only is it good exercise, but it's also a fun way to circle around the old medieval city center without the crowds.

Along the way, you'll enjoy excellent views over The Shambles , a narrow 14th-century roadway that's famous for its fine old timber-framed buildings, many of which hang over the street below. It's also an area known for its many restaurants and tearooms, as well as its many boutique shops and galleries.

York also boasts a number of major museums, the most popular being the National Railway Museum . Highlights of this museum's vast collection include many fine old steam engines dating as far back as 1820, plus a unique collection of Royal Trains. The museum also offers an excellent afternoon tea experience in the historic Countess of York railway carriage, bookable in advance.

  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England
  • From London to York: Best Ways to Get There

Cambridge

The UK has long been a center of learning, with two of its most famous university towns also ranking highly as tourist destinations. An easy commute north of London and just 128 kilometers apart, Cambridge and Oxford have for centuries been rivals for the title of the country's top academic establishment, a rivalry celebrated during the famous rowing event, The Boat Race , which takes place each spring on the River Thames .

Despite this generally good-spirited rivalry, each location offers plenty of attractions to make them worthwhile additions to your UK travel itinerary. Highlights of a visit to Cambridge include the chance to wander the UK's largest collection of preserved historic buildings, many of them located within an easy walk of Cambridge University ' s 31 colleges, the oldest of which was founded in 1284.

In addition to touring the stunning college grounds (only a handful of the university's buildings offer tours), you should also take a punt along the River Cam. This must-do activity is something of a Cambridge ritual, and chances are you'll even be "punted" along by a university student willing to share a little of their college experiences.

As with most popular tourist destinations, however, a little advance planning will ensure you find a reputable company for your punting tour. Licensed operators to consider include Cambridge Punt Company , which also offers a private romantic evening tour; and Scholars Punting , which features a fun picnic hamper package worth considering. In both cases, you can keep the cost down by joining a shared tour.

Oxford University's 38 colleges are equally fun to explore. These historic old places of learning are each set around a quadrangle and several inner courtyards along with chapels, dining halls, libraries, and student residences, some of which offer unique tourist accommodation packages, too. Like most UK tourist sites, they do get extremely busy in summer so be sure to book your visit in advance if you can to avoid disappointment.

Other Oxford highlights include the Carfax Tower, with its fine views over the city center, and the many fine old buildings of the town's High Street .

Canterbury

Pay a visit to historic Canterbury in Kent, and you'll soon discover why this beautiful city continues to be such a draw for visitors to the UK.

An easy hour's train ride from central London, Canterbury has been a draw for visitors for centuries. The first visitors were religious pilgrims who have in fact been visiting for more than 1,500 years, ever since St. Augustine first started converting pagan Anglo-Saxons to Christianity here in AD 597.

River Stour in Canterbury

The city's most famous attraction is Canterbury Cathedral , the home church of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning cathedral offers plenty to see, from the intricately carved masonry of its exterior to its magnificent interior, a highlight of which is the beautiful choir with its statues of six English kings. Also of note are the exquisite Miracle Windows, dating from the 12th century and depicting scenes from the life of murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket .

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the pedestrianized area of Old City Canterbury with its many preserved, historic timber-framed buildings, particularly along Mercery Lane. Be sure to include the excellent Canterbury Roman Museum on your itinerary. It was built around the remains of an original Roman townhouse and its unique mosaic.

Read More: From London to Canterbury: Best Ways to Get There

The ruins of Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness

Despite the fact that the legends of mythical monsters have largely been debunked (just don't tell the locals), spectacular Loch Ness remains an extremely popular tourist attraction for travelers heading to Scotland. While it's unlikely you'll encounter any monsters, you will, however, be rewarded with seeing some of the UK's most beautiful scenery.

Highlights of Loch Ness include the ruins of Urquhart Castle . Set overlooking the loch, it's one of Scotland's largest fortifications, with the current structure dating from the 14th century. For those wanting to learn more about the area's many legends, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition recounts its history, along with that of its monster, including details of ongoing searches for the elusive creature.

A little farther north is Inverness. This lovely city boasts numerous excellent attractions, including Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and the late 19th-century St. Andrew's Cathedral.

History buffs should also check out the Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre . It was in Culloden in 1746 that the English and Scots fought their last battle and where the fate of Scotland as a British dominion was determined. Also of interest are the gravestones of warriors from the Scottish clans, as well as the six-meter-high Memorial Cairn erected in 1881 to commemorate the battle.

  • From Glasgow to Loch Ness: Best Way to Get There
  • From Edinburgh to Loch Ness: Best Ways to Get There

Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland

It's sometimes a little too easy to forget that the UK includes a tiny little piece of Ireland . Northern Ireland, consisting of the northeast corner of the "Emerald Isle," can easily be included on a trip to either country and is well worth taking the time to explore.

My favorite among the many Northern Ireland attractions worth visiting is the magnificent Giant's Causeway, a stunningly beautiful natural feature that looks anything but natural. Just a short drive from the capital of Belfast , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of unusual columns of layered basalt that jut upwards out of the sea and shoreline like some giant's staircase, hence their name.

All told, there are some 4,000 of these polygonal-shaped steps to see and clamber over. Formed over 60 million years ago during a period of intense volcanic activity, it's a truly impressive sight, and easy to see how local legends of giants could so easily have sprung up as a result.

A modern visitor center has been opened here and provides fascinating details about the reality and the myths behind this bucket-list attraction. Guided tours can be arranged, and be sure to make use of the audio guides that are provided with admission. Tickets can be booked online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Read More: From Dublin to Giant's Causeway: Best Ways to Get There

Liverpool

Liverpool , under three hours away from London by rail, offers plenty of cultural excitement for the curious traveler. It's also well-known for its role in giving rise to the English music legacy, not least because of its association with the Beatles .

Music fans are drawn here first and foremost for "Fab Four"-related attractions, such as The Beatles Story located in the renovated Albert Docks area. Also worth seeing are the famous Cavern Club, where the band made its debut in 1961, as well as the former homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Numerous walking tours and bus tours of Beatles sites are also readily available.

Other great reasons to visit Liverpool include its many historic buildings, lovely gardens, and parks, as well as great museums such as the Merseyside Maritime Museum , the Museum of Liverpool , and world-class art galleries like the Walker Art Gallery and the Tate Gallery . These are all located in the city's revitalized Royal Albert Dock area, an historic area enjoyed exploring on foot.

Manchester Town Hall

Thanks to its international airport, Manchester is often the first stop for many visitors from North America planning to explore northern England, Scotland, or Wales. It's especially popular for fans of the sport of football (that's soccer to those from the US, including Ted Lasso!).

Manchester is, in fact, home to two top football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. Both are well represented in the must-visit National Football Museum , as are other popular teams from around the UK. Along with displays of memorabilia, trophies, and clothing, fun short movies explain the history of the sport and capture many of its defining moments.

Be sure to also visit at least one Manchester club's stadium, too. The best known is Manchester United's Old Trafford grounds, though Manchester City's Etihad Stadium is also worth seeing. Both offer fascinating tours and behind-the-scenes access. Better still, try to visit when there's a game on!

Other notable places to visit in Manchester include Castlefield , popular for its well-preserved Victorian houses, canals, and Roman ruins. It's also popular to explore on foot for its many old warehouses now serving as trendy shops, hotels, and restaurants.

If you've got time left in your Manchester itinerary, be sure to include Manchester Cathedral and the historic Town Hall. There's also a rich cultural scene that includes museums (Museum of Science and Industry), galleries (Manchester Art Gallery), and entertainment (Chinatown).

Cardiff: The Capital of Wales

Despite being much smaller than both Scotland and England, Wales is home to some of the UK's top attractions. Interesting things to do here range from exploring the breathtaking scenery and enjoying outdoor adventures in its national parks to visiting its historic castles.

One of the best places to sample a little of everything that Wales has to offer is the country's capital, Cardiff , with most travelers beginning their visit at Cardiff Castle . Located in the middle of the city and built on the ruins of an ancient Roman fort, parts of the current structure date as far back as 1090, with much of it restored in the 1800s. Highlights include the State Apartments, the Clock Tower, the Chapel, and a spectacular Banqueting Hall with its fine murals.

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the city's many old Victorian shopping arcades, the best of which can be found around The Hayes. You'll find everything from second-hand record stores to boutique clothing shops and custom jewelers to browse.

Also worth checking out is Cardiff Bay. One of the UK's largest redevelopment projects, this vast area is now home to numerous fine restaurants, theaters, galleries, and shopping opportunities, many of them housed in former warehouses on lovely Mermaid Quay.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

Gorey Castle in Saint Martin, Jersey, Channel Islands

Although just 14 miles away from mainland France , the Channel Islands have been a British territory since 1066. One of the most picture-perfect destinations in the country, these attractive small islands not only boast a milder climate but offer great places to visit that don't get the large crowds like other parts of the country.

The Channel Islands comprise Jersey (the largest island), Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and Herm (the smallest), along with numerous even tinier islands. The intrepid traveler will also be rewarded with everything from quaint seaside towns and villages to explore, historic castles and ruins (sometimes one and the same), as well as outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting.

As for getting here, the Channel Islands are well served by ferries from mainland England, as well as short flights from most major British airports.

Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

Aerial view of Balmaha village on Loch Lomond

The Scottish city of Glasgow is a great place to visit for those who enjoy a mix of cultural attractions and the great outdoors. Once you've had your fix of historic sites such as Glasgow Cathedral and the museums of the University of Glasgow, among others, head out to explore nearby Loch Lomond .

Loch Lomond was dubbed "The Queen of Scottish Lakes" by famed writer Walter Scott, and it's here you'll see Ben Lomond and the beautiful Trossachs countryside. Trossachs National Park now includes Loch Lomond itself and covers some 720 square miles of prime hiking and biking country.

It's also popular for its fishing and boating, including sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. For true outdoor enthusiasts, Loch Lomond is the perfect spot for a "wild camping" adventure. Not only is it safe, you're never too far away from people if you need them. And, of course, you'll agree that the scenery here is even more beautiful when you have it all to yourself.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Glasgow

Snowden Mountain Railway

Not only does the Snowdonia region of Wales boast some of the country's most remarkable scenery — and that's saying something, as it really is a beautiful country — it's also home to the UK's second largest national park: Snowdonia National Park. Spread across nearly 830 square miles, the park is as big a draw for adventurers as it is for those seeking a pleasant and not-too-exhausting day trip.

If you're a hiker you can choose from a variety of trails that wind their way up (and down) Mount Snowdon itself, spending a full day tackling as difficult a route to the top as you desire. And those like me who want to see the spectacular views from the top without all the hard work can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway .

Considered one of the world's top scenic railways, the journey starts in Llanberis before tackling steep inclines up to the "Eryri" visitor center at the top of Snowdon.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Snowdonia

City Hall in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Once omitted from the itineraries of most travelers to the UK, Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, has in recent years become something of a must-see destination. Not only are there numerous historic attractions and cultural experiences to enjoy, but the city's people have the same welcoming attitude that the European nation of Ireland to the south is known for.

One of the city's top claims to fame was its role in the building of the ill-fated ocean liner, RMS Titanic . This connection is celebrated and memorialized in the city's Titanic Quarter , home to the impressive Titanic Belfast attraction. Here, you can explore interactive exhibits that deal not only with the vessel, but the thousands of people involved in its construction and, ultimately, its sinking.

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Explore Great Britain

Sample fresh seafood in Devon, stargaze in the Highlands of Scotland, or go coasteering round Wales’ rocky shoreline - wherever your travels take you, explore Great Britain and Northern Ireland for culture that is as compelling as it is unique.

Are you brave enough to hunt for Nessie in Loch Ness, or bring history to life at medieval castles? Take to the water with white water rafting in Cardiff, or tuck into the flavours of our bustling cultural hubs? Witness world-class football in Liverpool and Manchester, iconic skylines in London and step into a world of art and creativity across Britain’s immersive exhibitions and galleries.

From vibrant cities, to quaint villages and epic National Parks, there are so many things to do in Britain and Northern Ireland - the only question you need to ask is, where do I start?

Few places inspire quite like England. Home to iconic landmarks, and swathes of natural landscapes, from the Lake District to the Cornish coast.

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Scotland’s stunning landscapes, lochs, islands and mountains combine to form a country that’s as unique as it is beautiful.

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When we say that Wales has more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the world, you already start to picture the beauty of its landscape.

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Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has everything from World Heritage sites to Game of Thrones locations, plus scenery that will leave you in awe.

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Known as the City of Stories, create your own narrative as you explore Norwich’s huge array of historic and modern day attractions.

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Norwich, England

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From a Medieval monarch found under a car park to the city’s celebration of multicultural modern life, Leicester has got it all.

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Leicester, England

An outdoor view of Leicester's historic Guild Hall

Britain’s Ocean City offers a seamless blend of maritime charm and natural beauty; a cultural hub filled with award-winning museums and waterfront attractions.

Plymouth, England

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Small but mighty, Exeter is a city with seriously cool credentials.

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Chester’s charm is captivating and unmissable, from City Walls oozing with history and tales of Romans, to seeing the animal kingdom at Chester Zoo.

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A storyteller of history, Lincoln is a city with thousands of tales to tell.

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From its beginnings as a Norman Fortress, Lancaster’s buildings, streets and locals can tell tales of gigantic proportions.

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A place for roaming Romans, valiant Vikings and a playground for wizards, Durham is bursting with magical moments.

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Sitting on the edge of the Peak District National Park, its a place for outdoor lovers, adrenaline cravers and creative thinkers.

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A perfect blend of nature and urban living, this Essex city was made to be explored.

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The city of Cambridge is a hotbed of history, architecture and innovation.

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Cool creative Bristol is a must-see for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

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Packed with lively pubs, an eclectic food scene and a myriad of immersive experiences.

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The Titanic, Belfast

An industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart and a whole host of quirky adventures.

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Stratford-upon-Avon

Birthplace of the great bard, William Shakespeare, fall in love with this hopelessly romantic 16th century town.

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Lovers of The Crown can wrap themselves in royalty as this town is about as regal as it gets.

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Small and mighty – York is the medieval walled city that really packs a punch.

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Just an hour by train from London and you’re in the city of dreaming spires.

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The birthplace of 2-Tone music, and home to a bohemian village and a showy modern cathedral.

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A hotbed for shopping and the arts, you’ll find lots to explore in Leeds.

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From The Beatles to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with seriously cool credentials.

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Pushing the boundaries of art and culture and a heart that beats through its people.

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A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

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From palaces to cobbled alleys, and a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

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Step into a land of castles, world-renowned rugby and a whole host of myths and legends.

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A wellness retreat for the Romans and Georgian architecture around every corner.

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An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

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World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

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Newcastle upon Tyne

Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

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Steeped in legends that surround Robin Hood to literary greats, discover what this city has to offer.

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Countryside

Peak district.

For hikers, cyclists, horse riders and thrill seekers, the Peak District offers adventures galore.

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Lake District

From the tip of England’s tallest peak to the nation’s deepest lake, this national park is stacked with super-sized scenery.

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Lake District, England

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Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog)

Looming peaks over thick forests, sheep-grazed valleys and open moors - adventure awaits in Wales.

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The Broads is a breath of fresh air, beautifully webbed with lakes, fens and rivers.

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Lush rolling pastures, pretty stone villages and rambling rivers - the Cotswolds has it all.

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Yorkshire Dales

Proof that perfection can’t be rushed, the Yorkshire Dales was millions of years in-the-making.

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Dartmoor and Exmoor

With tangled oak forests and looming peaks, it can feel like the edge of the world.

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Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms is a playground for wildlife lovers, hill climbers, thrill seekers and more.

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Pembrokeshire

For a real adventure, head to Wales’s westernmost tip. A paradise for hikers, swimmers, thrill-seekers and birdwatchers.

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Pembrokeshire, Wales

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The Scottish Highlands

Located in the northern reaches of Scotland, the Highlands are about beauty and adventure.

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Hugging the south-west, Devon is a playground for adventurers, explorers and foodie lovers.

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Devon, England

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Northumberland

Historical hot property – evident in its castles, citadels and 2,000-year-old Hadrian’s Wall.

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Snowdonia (Eryri)

Full of adventure from its sky-scraping peaks to plunging glacial valleys - it’s bursting with bombastic scenery.

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North York Moors

Rugged yet beautiful, wild yet welcoming – the North York Moors National Park is full of surprises.

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Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Explore pristine woods, climb mountains and paddle the waters of Scotland's wild landscape.

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Borders and Lowlands

The gateway into Scotland, the Borders and Lowlands pack the punch,

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South Downs

Discover epic trails, rivers to kayak, castles to conquer and wild woods to explore.

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Step into nature with tufty-haired ponies, wild countryside and a labyrinth of bike trails.

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From ice-cream parlours to sea food festivals, the ‘Garden of England’ is meant for discovery.

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Renowned for its glorious countryside, striking coastline and unique attractions.

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North Wales

From valleys, shorelines to towns, find North Wales packed with adventure.

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King Charles III England Coast Path

A masterpiece in the making, filled with beaches, clifftops, cities and nature.

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North Coast 500

One epic road trip with hefty mountains, dazzling beaches and tranquil lochs.

Peedie Sands, a hidden gem beach near the village of Dunnet in Caithness

Wales Coast Path

A route to adventure, culture and wildlife hugging the shorelines of Wales.

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Scottish Islands

Jaw-dropping landscapes wrapped in tales of legends, the wild nature will stay with you forever.

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Causeway Coast

A land of mighty scenery and epic stories, this wild corner of Northern Ireland will steal your heart.

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Jurassic Coast

Welcome to dinosaur territory, with beaches and rocks strewn with ancient fossils and footprints.

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50 Famous UK landmarks to add to your bucket list

From Big Ben to Ben Nevis, and the Jurassic Coast to the Giants Causeway, here are 50 of the most famous UK landmarks for your bucket list.

Image of Buckingham Palace and the Victoria Memorial London

About the author: David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian with 30+years experience exploring Europe. His work regularly appears in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Guardian.

Planning a trip to the UK and looking for some inspiration? Here’s my guide to 50+ famous UK landmarks. These landmarks are some of the most visited attractions in Britain.

For such a small country, there is an incredible wealth of famous places in the UK. Many UK landmarks are renowned throughout the world, especially the most famous London landmarks like Big Ben and St Paul’s Cathedral.

In our guide to the 50 best British landmarks we explore all four countries that make up the UK, covering all corners of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland along the way. Read on to discover 50 of the very best places to see in Britain. 

Table of Contents

Top 50 famous UK landmarks

1. big ben, london  .

Image of Big Ben and a traditional red telephone box London England Uk

Location: Westminster, Central London, England

What is it: It’s the most commonly used name for the Elizabeth Tower of the Houses of Parliament. But Big Ben is actually the bell within the Tower

Big Ben is officially the name of the bell within the Elizabeth Tower of the Houses of Parliament, but many use the name to refer to the entire tower.

It’s possibly the most famous of all landmarks in the UK, and one of the most graceful, dominating the views of the River Thames between the Waterloo and Lambeth bridges in London .

It’s part of one of four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in London. Westminster Abbey, St Margaret’s Church and the rest of the Houses of Parliament are also included in the Westminster World Heritage Site.

See Also: Famous London Landmarks

Website: Big Ben

2. Edinburgh Castle  

Image of Edinburgh Castle Scotland

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

What is it: A historic fortress on a volcanic rock, serving as a royal residence and military stronghold

The greatest of all Scottish castles sits high on a volcanic outcrop above the capital, besieged and bombarded many times over yet surviving 900 years since its founding by David I in the 12th century. 

It has been a royal residence and military stronghold, and houses the oldest building in Edinburgh, the simple 12 th  century St Margaret’s Chapel. The 16 th  century Great Hall is another survivor from medieval times – much of the Castle has been rebuilt since the 19 th  century.

Good to know: Edinburgh Castle is also home to the Scottish National War Memorial and National War Museum of Scotland.

Top Tips:  For a spectacular experience visit during August when it is the backdrop to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Website: Edinburgh Castle

3. Rhossili Beach, Wales  

Image of Rhossili beach Gower Peninsula Wales UK

Location: Gower Peninsula, Wales

What is it : A stunning three-mile long beach frequently voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Rhossili Bay  is the best-known beach on the Gower Peninsula, the first part of the UK to be declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is one of the most famous natural landmarks in Wales . It’s the westernmost of the  Gower beaches , a three-mile (5 km) curve of glorious golden sand that’s far too large to get even remotely crowded.

Top tip: One of the easiest  Gower walks  takes you along the fairly flat clifftop path to the end of the headland looking out to the tidal island of Worm’s Head, one of the most striking coastal landmarks in Britain.

See Also: 20 Things To Do In The Spectacular Gower 

4. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland  

Image of the Giants Causeway County Antrim Northern Ireland

Location: County Antrim, Northern Ireland

What is it: A natural wonder with around 40,000 basalt columns formed by volcanic activity.

The Giant’s Causeway is probably the best-known of the main Northern Ireland landmarks, a geological wonder formed by a volcanic eruption.

The Causeway is a series of around 40,000 basalt columns of varying height, shape and size formed as lava cooled, cracking in a similar way to mud.

According to Irish legend, giant Finn MacCool built the causeway over to Scotland where he confronted the Scottish giant Benandonner. It’s located on the Antrim coast, a few miles from two other Northern Irish landmarks in this article. 

5. Buckingham Palace  

Image of Buckingham Palace and the Victoria Memorial London

Location: London, England

What is it: The official London residence of the British monarch.

Buck House’ is the official London residence of the reigning British monarch and one of the most familiar London landmarks throughout the world.

It’s the first place in royal London most visitors head for, to see the centuries-old ceremonial Changing of the Guard, and to visit the State Rooms for ten weeks a year between July and September.

The Palace is at the end of The Mall, a tree-lined processional avenue along which the King and royal retinue march during the Trooping the Colour ceremony held on the second Saturday of June. 

Good to know: Changing of The King’s Guard takes place in front of Buckingham Palace at 10:45am and lasts for about 45 minutes on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. You should arrive early to get the best view. It may be cancelled in bad weather. You can check this site for the Changing the Guard schedule .

Top Tips: Book in advance if you wish to tour the State Rooms in summer.

6. Tower Bridge London  

Image of Tower Bridge London UK at sunrise

Location: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP

What is it: A combined bascule and suspension bridge over the River Thames.

One of the foremost landmarks in England and icons of London, Tower Bridge is magnificent, a combined suspension and bascule bridge over the river Thames. It’s a wonder of late 19 th  century Gothic Revival architecture, its twin towers like gateways to a fairytale world.

It also does the more prosaic job of raising its central section to allow shipping above a certain height to pass through safely. It was designed by Horace Jones and completed in 1894, and is one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe , if not the world. 

Top Tip: Visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition for stunning views and glass floor experience.

See Also: 18 Famous Bridges In London

7. St David’s Cathedral, Wales  

Image of St David's Cathedral with daffodils Wales UK

Location: St Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales

What is it: A beautiful cathedral built on the site of a monastery founded by St David.

This remote cathedral in the far west of Wales is by far the most impressive church in the country. It was built on the site of a monastery founded by St David, the patron saint of Wales, in the 6 th  century AD.

It was built down in a valley to remain out of sight of potential invaders,  and its simple stone exterior contrasts with the interior, with its ornate wooden nave roof and stunning central tower vault.

Top Tip: There are enough  things to do in St Davids , the smallest city in the UK, to keep you busy for several days with some of the most beautiful beaches and coastal walks in Britain. 

8. Stonehenge, England  

Image of Stonehenge at sunset Wiltshire England UK

Location: Wiltshire, England

What is it: A prehistoric stone circle, one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites.

This stone circle is one of the oldest man-made landmarks in the United Kingdom, believed to be around 5,000 years old.

The site and visitor experience have changed greatly in recent years with the removal of a road that ran close by. Now you can enjoy a grand approach across the Wiltshire fields, much more fitting for one of the great prehistoric monuments of Europe.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the stone circles surrounding the Wiltshire village of Avebury. Recent research suggests that the stone circle may have originally been sited in the Preseli Hills in West Wales, and moved or rebuilt at the present site sometime later. 

9. Conwy Castle   

Image of Conwy Castle Wales Uk

Location: Conwy, North Wales

What is it: A 13th-century fortress with eight towers guarding the River Conwy.

Conwy Castle is one of the most impressive landmarks in UK, a formidable 13 th  century fortress with eight towers guarding the last crossing point of the River Conwy before the sea.

The town’s defences were augmented by the adjacent town walls, stretching over ¾ mile (1.2 km) around the medieval town. It’s one of four of the Castles of Gwynedd built by Edward I to become a World Heritage Site in 1984. 

See more: Things to do in Conwy  and 20 Extraordinary Castles In North Wales

10. Roman Baths, Bath, England  

Image of Bath Roman Baths and BAth Abeey at night Bath England UK

Location: Bath, England

What is it: Ancient Roman public baths around natural hot springs.

The Roman Baths that give the fine city of Bath its name date from the 1 st  century AD. The original Roman settlement grew around these natural springs and the small town became known as Aquae Sulis.

The Museum incorporating the Baths is fascinating, and one of the best times to visit is late on a winter afternoon, with the main Bath lit by fire torches, steam rising off the water and magnificent Bath Abbey lit up.

The adjoining Pump Room Restaurant – the place to be seen in high society 18 th  century Bath – is another essential part of the Roman Baths experience. One of the most evocative of all U.K. landmarks. 

11. Snowdon  

Image of Mount Snowdon in the Snowdonia National PArk North Wales UK

Location: North Wales

What is it: The highest mountain in Wales

Snowdon – Yr Wyddfa – is the highest mountain in Wales at 1,085 metres (3,560 feet) above sea level. It’s the focal point of the Snowdonia National Park, which takes up much of mountainous north-west Wales, and surrounded by several other peaks.

You can reach the top by the rack-and-pinion Snowdon Mountain Railway or on foot up six different paths, but don’t underestimate this mighty Welsh landmark, which provided the training ground for the first climbers to conquer Mount Everest in the early 1950s. 

See Also: Facts About Snowdonia

12. Lake District  

Image of the Lake District Cumbria England Uk

Location: North West England

What is it: England’s largest National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Lake District of north-west England was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2017.  However, it’s about much more than the alluring Lakes, however – the area (a National Park since 1951) is also home to the highest mountains in England.

The landscape – from the pastoral lower slopes to the heights of Scafell Pike – was a great inspiration to the Picturesque movement of the 18 th  century and the later Romantic movement, and the area has been uniquely conserved, with most trappings of the industrial world kept well away. It’s one of the great landscapes of England and, indeed, Europe. 

13. Jurassic Coast, Dorset and Devon, England

Image of Durdle Door sea arch Jurassic Coast Dorset England UK

Location: Stretching from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset

What is it: England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Jurassic Coast is a 95-mile (153 km) stretch of Dorset and East Devon coastline that comprises England’s sole natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

It’s a unique and varied stretch of coast formed over the Mesozoic Era (250 to 65 million years ago, and is particularly fossil-rich.

Its name is a little misleading as the area also contains many miles of Triassic and Cretaceous (the eras before and after the Jurassic) coastline as well.

It contains several great coastal English landmarks, from the white chalk cliff stacks of Old Harry Rocks to the iconic Durdle Door sea arch, nearby Lulworth Cove, and Golden Cap, at 191 metres the highest hill and cliff on the south coast of England. 

14. Ben Nevis   

Image of Ben Nevis and Loch Eil HIghlands Scotland UK

Location: Near Fort William, Scotland

What is it: The highest mountain in the British Isles.

Ben Nevis has a special place among famous landmarks of UK, as it’s the highest mountain in Great Britain. It looms 4,413 feet (1,345 metres) above the town of Fort William and the west coast of Scotland.

The most popular route up the mountain is the Pony Track, and it’s by no means an easy option, criss-crossing scree slopes on its way up. The climb takes 4-5 hours in summer, and you need to allow at least 3 hours to descend.

The best views of Ben Nevis are from nearby lakes, including Loch Eil, just to the west of Fort William. 

15. Portmeirion Village, Wales

Image of statue and village of Portmeirion Wales UK

Location: Gwynedd, North Wales

What is it: An Italianate style village

This whimsical fantasy village is surely one of the prettiest landmarks of the UK.  Built on a wooded hillside overlooking the sublime Dwyryd estuary in North Wales, it’s a village of ‘rescued buildings’ rebuilt along with an Italian-style belltower and cottages which was the setting for much of the 1960s TV series  The Prisoner .

It’s open to visitors during the daytime, but one of the best  things to do in Portmeirion  is to stay overnight, in one of the two hotels – one of which is one of the best castles to stay in Wales – or holiday cottages around the main Piazza. 

See Also: 15 Delightful Villages In North Wales

16. The Kelpies, Falkirk, Scotland  

Image of The Kelpies statues in Falkirk Scotland

Location: Falkirk, Scotland

What is it: Two 30-meter high horse-head sculptures, the largest equine sculptures in the world.

The Kelpies are a compelling pair of horse-head sculptures at the entrance to a new extended section of the Forth and Clyde canal which links east and west Scotland.

One of the newer Scotland landmarks, completed in 2014 by sculptor Andy Scott, they represent mythical shape-shifting creatures from Scottish folklore – some of which took on the form of horses – and also the actual horses used in the development of Scottish industry. 

17. Blackpool Tower  

Image of Blackpool Tower at sunset Lancashire England UK

Location: Blackpool, England

What is it: A 158-meter tall tower in the most famous British seaside resort.

Blackpool Tower is one of the most celebrated British landmarks, dominating the seafront of one of the most popular British seaside resorts.

The Tower soars high above the beach, piers and funfair below, and you can climb most of the way up this 158-metre (518 feet) landmark to take in superb views of the Lancashire coast.

The Blackpool Tower complex also includes the ornate Tower Ballroom, which hosts daily tea dances, a Circus and Dungeon. 

18. Titanic Belfast  

Image of the Titanic Belfast Museum

Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland

What is it : A museum dedicated to the RMS Titanic, which was built in Belfast.

Titanic Belfast is an impressive museum on the site of the old Harland & Wolff shipyards where the ill-fated ocean liner  Titanic  was built and launched from in 1912.

The striking building symbolises a series of ship prows, though some locals have nicknamed this newest of Belfast landmarks ‘The Iceberg’.

The interior of the building is a series of rooms, taking you through the shipyards, to a re-creation of cabins on board the Titanic, a gallery depicting the launch and another the fatal collision with an iceberg. 

19. Brecon Beacons, Wales  

Image of Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons

Location: Mid Wales

What is it: A spectacular National Park and dark sky reserve

They are among the most scenic Welsh landmarks, yet the Brecon Beacons are made up of three distinct mountain ranges.

The central Brecon Beacons, including the tallest summit in southern Britain, Pen y Fan (886 metres or 2.907 feet), pull in the most visitors, while you can enjoy many of the gentler contours of the Black Mountains to the east in near-solitude.

The moorland Black Mountain to the west offers one of the most scenic drives in the UK and one of the most romantic castles in Europe, Carreg Cennen Castle, in the steep valleys below. 

See Also: Wales Bucket List

20. White Cliffs of Dover  

Image of the White Cliffs of Dover England UK

Location: Dover, England

What is it: Iconic white chalk cliffs and symbol of homecoming during WWII

The gleaming White Cliffs of Dover are among the most recognisable UK landmarks, a potent symbol of the country and homecoming, especially during the Second World War. 

They are visible from the north coast of France 22 miles (35 km )away, and stretch 8 miles (13 km) either side of the busy port of Dover. 

They were especially resonant during the 1940s Dunkirk evacuations, when troops could see the Cliffs across the English Channel. They were also immortalised by Dame Vera Lynn in her wartime song ‘ (There’ll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs of Dover’.  

21. Cardiff Castle, Wales   

Image of Cardiff Castle Wales Uk

Cardiff Castle has become one of the most recognisable landmarks of Britain because it dominates the centre of the Welsh capital. You can’t possibly miss it, its extensive walls and Clock Tower close to some of the main Cardiff shopping streets.

One of the best castles in South Wales to visit, Cardiff has been a Roman fort and boasts an 11 th  century keep, a 15th century gatehouse and – the main draw – some of the most extravagant Victorian Gothic Revival architecture and decoration you’ll find anywhere. 

22. Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Wales  

Image of Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Trevor Wales UK

Location: Near Llangollen, Wales

What Is It: The longest and highest aqueduct in Britain, a masterpiece of engineering from the Industrial Revolution.

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is one of the great landmarks of the UK from the Industrial Revolution period. It was built by the ‘Colossus of Roads’, the great civil engineer Thomas Telford, to carry the Shropshire Union Canal high above the scenic Dee Valley and on to the nearby town of Llangollen.

Narrowboats carrying visitors make up most of the traffic nowadays, and you can hire one yourself from Trevor Wharf on the north side of the Aqueduct. It was the third site in Wales to be accorded UNESCO World Heritage status in 2009.  

See also  :  Things to do in Llangollen  

23. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland  

Image of the Glenfinnan Viaduct Highlands Scotland UK

What is it: A railway viaduct featured in the Harry Potter films

It has become one of the more famous Scottish landmarks over the last fifteen years or so, having appeared in four Harry Potter films, but the Glenfinnan Viaduct would have made our list no matter what.

It’s the highlight of one of the most spectacular rail journeys in Europe, the West Highland Line branch line to the remote fishing port of Mallaig. The line curves as it passes over the 21 arches, surrounded by an amphitheatre of rugged mountains and the waters of Loch Shiel below.

At the time of writing (April 2021), three trains pass in each direction between Glasgow Queen Street and Mallaig daily. 

24. V & A Dundee, Scotland  

Image of the V&A Museum Dundee Scotland

Location: Dundee, Scotland

What Is It: Scotland’s first design museum.

The V&A Dundee is one of the newest Scottish landmarks, completed in 2018.  It’s Scotland’s first Design Museum, and the first ‘branch’ of the V&A outside London.

The building was designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, and is said to have been inspired by the cliffs of the east Scottish coast. It’s a striking presence on the Dundee waterfront, especially combined with the RRS Discovery, the tall-masted ship which took Scott and Shackleton on their first voyage to the Antarctic. 

25. Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge  

Image of the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Northern Ireland

Location: Near Ballintoy, Northern Ireland

What is it: A famous rope bridge

You’ll find another of the most famous landmarks in Northern Ireland a few miles east along the scenic Antrim coast from Giant’s Causeway.

The current version of this rope bridge – linking the mainland with tiny Carrick-a-Rede Island – was completed in 2008, but the original is believed to have been raised in 1755 by local salmon fishermen.

Only eight people can use the bridge at any one time, and with clear views to the sea and rocks 30 metres (98 feet) below some can’t stomach the return journey and have to be helped off the island by boat. One to test your head for heights!  

26. Caernarfon Castle

Image of Caernarfon Castle Wales UK

Location: Caernarfon, Wales

What is it: A medieval fortress and one of the most impressive castles in Britain.

The sturdy, angular walls of Caernarfon Castle, possibly the most famous landmark in Wales, would have intimidated and most likely deterred any would-be attacker. 

Inspired by the walls of Constantinople, this mighty fortress is one of the most impressive castles in North Wales , and guarded the southern entrance to the Menai Strait, the body of water between mainland Wales and the isle of Anglesey.

Caernarfon Castle was built at enormous expense by English King Edward I to subjugate local Welsh rebels, and left him severely out of pocket.

Caernarfon was then captured by the Welsh before it was completed, and restored to English control a year later. The Castle’s defences had already been augmented by an imposing circuit of town walls.

The Castle came to worldwide attention in 1969 when it hosted the Investiture of Prince Charles as Prince of Wales. It is also home to one of the best military museums in Wales, the Museum of the Royal Welch Fusiliers Regiment, in one of its towers.

27. Tintern Abbey

Image of tintern abbey Wales UK

Location: Near Chepstow, Wales

What is it: The ruins of a romantic Gothic church

Tintern Abbey – Abaty Tyndyrn in Welsh –  is one of the great British landmarks. And not just because it is one of the most beautiful, one of the finest English Decorated Gothic churches ever built.

Tintern Abbey also played a major part in inspiring the birth of British tourism. In the late 18th century, the Wye Tour – a two-day boat trip down the river from Ross-on-Wye to Tintern and Chepstow, a few miles downstream – was the ideal opportunity for visitors to appreciate the Picturesque.

They would stop at several places each day to paint riverside scenes, and word of mouth soon made the Wye Valley one of the most famous places in Britain. The Abbey was the highlight of the Tour, and to this day it’s one of the most beautiful places to see in Britain. 

The steep forested gorge of the Wye is a magnificent sight at any time of year, and is perhaps at its best on a still autumn morning, the mists rising from the river and swirling around the arches and empty windows of the great ruined church, just as the sun peeks over the forested hillside behind. One of the most evocative places to visit in the UK.

See Also: Best Places to Visit in Wales in Autumn

 28. Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol

Image of Clifton Suspension Bridge Bristol England UK

Location: Bristol, England

What Is It: A remarkable suspension bridge spanning the Avon Gorge

The best-known of Bristol landmarks, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is the defining symbol of this great city in the south-west of England.  Designed by master engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, it spans the Avon Gorge, connecting Clifton Village with Leigh woods and nearby Ashton Court.

Back when I lived in Bristol, I regularly walked the short distance from my flat to the Bridge to gaze at the twinkling lights of the city below.  The bridge is an awesome sight at any time of day or night, and you can walk across it for free (when I lived there, pedestrians had to pay a modest 2p – less than 3 US cents – to do so).

Clifton Village is very close by and is well worth exploring for its Georgian architecture, some of which is on a par with that of nearby (and more widely renowned) Bath.

Much of Caledonia Terrace, for example, is let as student accommodation. Stop off for a drink at the Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin as the lights are turned on a t dusk to get the full effect of this magical spot. Then head around the corner for a drink at the Coronation Tap, a legendary Bristol pub.

See Also: 20 Most Beautiful Bridges In Europe

29. Tower of London

Image of the White tower of the tower of London UK

Location: London on the north bank of the River Thames

What is it: Historic Royal Castle in the City of London

The Tower of London is one of the oldest castles in England and Britain, indeed one of the first stone castles to be constructed in the British Isles. It was commissioned by William the Conqueror to defend London, capital of his newly-acquired kingdom of England, after his victory in the Battle of Hastings in 1066.

William’s Castle is now known as the White Tower, and is one of the most famous landmarks in England. Although it’s dwarfed by the skyscrapers of the City of London, it’s still a formidable edifice, impressive from the Thames and its namesake Tower Bridge and up close.

The Tower is surrounded by impressive outer walls, and within these are fascinating precincts the size of a small village, with the Museum housing the Crown Jewels, the Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula, not to mention the famous Yeomen Warders, better known as Beefeaters and the resident ravens.

It rivals Parliament Square and Trafalgar Square as one of the most iconic places in London.

30. St Paul’s Cathedral, London

Image of St Paul's Cathedral London UK

Location: London

What is it: An iconic feature of the London skyline and the most beautiful building of the English Baroque period.

The famous domed St Paul’s Cathedral isn’t just one of the great UK landmarks, it’s also a building of immense symbolism to Londoners and the British alike.

It was built in the late 17 th and early 18 th centuries to replace the gigantic Gothic Old St Paul’s, which like most of London was consumed by the Great Fire of 1666. 

It came to represent renewal and revival as a new, very different city emerged from the lost medieval one.

During World War Two, its splendid Baroque dome stood firm and unscathed in famous photographs of the London Blitz, with buildings burning all around.

It came to symbolize the resistance and courage of Londoners and British as they were subjected to weeks of intense bombing by the Luftwaffe.

St Paul’s is the most famous legacy of its architect, Sir Christopher Wren, who built 50 churches in London in all.

Around 20 of these survive – many of these were destroyed during the Blitz, including St Augustine’s Watling Street, whose lone tower at the east end of St Paul’s survives, showing how close St Paul’s itself came to destruction.

31. Caerphilly Castle

Image of Caerphilly Castle Wales UK

Location: Caerphilly, South Wales.

What is it: The second largest castle in Britain now with fire’ breathing dragons.

The second largest castle in the UK – and the largest in Wales – was state-of-the-art when it was built in the 1260s. It was built on the low-lying land of the Caerphilly basin, surrounded by 1,000 feet high hills a few miles north of what is now the Welsh capital, Cardiff.

Norman lord Gilbert de Clare built Caerphilly Castle to dispel the threat from local Welsh warlords, who promptly sacked and destroyed the original in 1267. Its replacement, however, was a far tougher nut to crack.

Caerphilly Castle occupies 30 acres of land, and is surrounded by a series of lakes, giving it a picturesque feel.

It is also famous for its leaning tower, which tilts further from the perpendicular than its more famous counterpart in Pisa. Explanations for its partial destruction range from it being blown up by gunpowder to being used by locals as a quarry (the nearby 16th century manor house on the hill was a highly likely culprit).

The most important moment in Caerphilly Castle’s history came in the 14 th century when fugitive English king Edward II briefly sought refuge there. It also saw action in the early 15 th century when it was besieged by Welsh rebel prince Owain Glyndwr, and again during the English Civil War.

See Also : Castles in South Wales

32. London Eye

Image of Queen Boadicea and chariot statue, with the London Eye behind

Location: Southbank of the River Thames, London

What is it: A giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of London

The most enduring of the millennium London landmarks,  the London Eye – originally also known as the Millennium Ferris Wheel – quickly became established as one of the most famous UK landmarks.

The flight takes you over 500 feet above the River Thames, offering an amazing view of the Houses of Parliament on the opposite bank, and the western part of central London.

33. Kew Gardens

Image of Kew Palace in Kew Gardens London

Location: Kew, West London

What is it: UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the largest botanical and mycological collection in the world.

One of the best things to do in West London is to spend a few hours – or indeed a full day – exploring the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.  They cover a vast area – around 300 acres – of land close to the River thames, and were founded in 1759.

Kew Gardens are one of the most famous places in England, with a collection of over 50,000 species of plants, flowers and trees from around the world. These include some of the most famous buildings in London , such as the stunning Palm Court, Kew Palace and the Great Pagoda.

34. Westminster Abbey

Image of Westminster Cathedral. One of the most famous churches in London

Location: Westminster, London

What is it: One of the most famous churches in Britain and the site of royal coronations

The coronation church of kings and queens of England is one of the most famous buildings in England and greatest churches in Europe .

Visiting Westminster Abbey takes you on a journey through the last 1000 years of English and British history. One of the oldest sights you’ll see is the Shrine of St Edward the Confessor, whose disputed succession led to the Norman Conquest in 1066, and one of the most recent is the memorial to one of Britain’s greatest scientists, Stephen Hawking.

Architecturally Westminster Abbey is superb, from the soaring Gothic arches and vault of the narrow nave to the exquisite fan-vaulting from the late English Gothic Perpendicular period in the Lady Chapel in the east end of the church.

Westminster Abbey, St Margaret’s Church next door and the Houses of Parliament – one of the great squares in London – comprise one of four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in London.

35. Windsor Castle

Image of Windsor Castle and the Great Park England UK

Location: Windsor, Berkshire

What is it: The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world.

Windsor Castle, just west of London, has been the residence of reigning English kings and queens for over 900 years. 

It was originally built by William the Conqueror in the aftermath of the Norman Conquest, and been in use ever since – initially as a defensive fortification, but mostly as a vast royal palace. It was the principal residence of Queen Elizabeth II from 2011 until her death in 2022.

It’s one of the most famous landmarks in Great Britain, and the largest Castle in the British Isles. It’s also one of the most complete architecturally, with elements from the Norman / Romanesque (Round Tower), Gothic, and Perpendicular Gothic (the stunning St George’s Chapel), as well as furnishing and decorations all the way through to the 19 th century.

Top tip: If you visit, try to make time for a walk in Windsor Great Park to get an idea of the sheer scale of the place. 

36. Angel Of The North

image of  the angel of the north statue

Location: Gateshead, North East England

What is it : A contemporary sculpture and one of the most recognisable pieces of public art ever made.

The Angel of the North is one of the most famous landmarks of England. It’s believed to be the largest sculpture of an angel in the world, at a height of 20 metres and a wingspan of 54 metres. 

It’s one of the most famous pieces of public art in Britain, created by sculptor Antony Gormley, who was initially sceptical about the project. It occupies a small knoll between the main A1 road and the A167, on the outskirts of Gateshead, Tyne and Wear.

Since its completion in 1998, it has gradually become less visible as trees surrounding it have grown – this was the original intention, eventually showing it in a largely woodland setting.

37. Land’s End, Cornwall

Image of Lands End Cornwall England UK

Location: Cornwall, South West England.

What is it: The most westerly point of mainland England.

Land’s End is one of the most famous English landmarks, the westernmost point of mainland England and the island of Great Britain.

It’s also a full-blown tourist attraction, with film shows, a farm ideal for nature-loving kids as well as the iconic Land’s End signpost, the First and Last Inn and First and Last House, now a craft and souvenir shop.

The highlight, however, is the spectacular coastal scenery, and the walks along the South West Coast Path – south to Enys Dodnan Arch and the lovely coves at Porthgwarra and Nanjizal, and the wide, sandy swathe of Sennen Cove Beach.

38 . Forth Rail Bridge

Image of the Forth Rail Bridge Scotland UK

Location: Firth, East of Scotland

What is it: A symbol of Scottish engineering.

The Forth Railway Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in Europe , and at the time of its opening in 1890 was the longest single cantilever bridge span in the world. It’s 2,467 metres long,and carries the Edinburgh to Aberdeen railway.

It has become one of the great icons of Scotland, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site ,  one of six in Scotland, since 2015.

39. Loch Ness

Image of Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle Highlands Scotland

Location: Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Scotland

What is it: Freshwater loch best known for alleged sightings of the cryptozoological Loch Ness Monster

Loch Ness is a vast lake, up to 23 miles (36 km) long, south-west of Inverness in the Scottish Highlands. It’s the second largest lake in Scotland by area, but because of its depth – 230 metres at its deepest point – it is the largest by volume, containing more water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined.

The loch has long been famous for what is said to be lurking somewhere in its depths – Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster. Some have been convinced it’s a plesiosaur, others more prosaically believe it’s nothing more exciting than a large piece of driftwood.

Photographs have been dismissed as hoaxes, and there is no proof such a creature exists. Nonetheless, the myth draws visitors back year after year.

40. Stirling Castle

Image of Stirling Castle Scotland

Location: Stirling, Scotland.

What is it: One of the largest and most important castles in Scotland.

Stirling Castle is one of the most imposing castles in Great Britain, and has played a pivotal role in Scottish history. It has served both as a fortress and palatial royal residence.

It changed hands several times during the Scottish Wars of Independence in the late 13 th and 14 th centuries, and overlooks the site of the famous Battle of Bannockburn, where the Scots defeated English forces in 1314.

Most of the present Castle buildings date from the rebuild between 1490 and 1600 by the Stewart dynasty, under which James VI assumed the English throne in 1603 following the death of Elizabeth I, the last of the Tudor line.

41. The Shard, London

image of Famous London building the Shard

What is it: A 95-story supertall skyscraper with extraordinary views.

The Shard skyscraper in Southwark, London is the tallest building in the UK, towering 309 metres (1,016 feet) above the Borough High Street and London Bridge railway and Tube stations

It is shaped like a glass spire, and makes surrounding buildings look tiny. You can take a lift 72 floors to the viewing gallery at The View From The Shard, from which you can see as far as 40 miles (63 km) away, to the Thames estuary in the east and countryside and satellite towns outside London.

The outdoor viewing deck is open air, with glass screens providing protection from the elements.

The Shard is also home to the 5-star Shangri-La Hotel, several restaurants and offices.

42. Pembrokeshire Coastal Path

Image of Pwllgwaelod Pembrokeshire Coast Wales UK

Location: Pembrokeshire, Wales

What is it: A national trail in Wales, famous for its breathtaking coastal scenery.

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a 186-mile, 299 km trail around the county of Pembrokeshire in West Wales. It runs from Amroth, on the coast of Carmarthen Bay in the south-east, to the village of St Dogmaels in the north-west of the county.

The path is now part of the longer Wales Coast Path, which runs the entire 870-mile length of the Welsh coast. However it remains one of the most popular sections of the coast path, passing along the four glorious Tenby beaches , the dramatic scenery of the Stackpole Estate and the gorgeous St Davids Peninsula.

My favourite section is the northernmost, from Newport Pembrokeshire, an exhilarating 13-mile trail along spectacular undulating cliffs, with barely a soul in sight.

43. Dark Hedges

Image of the Dark Hedges in Northern Ireland

Location: County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

What is it: An atmospheric, tree-lined road made famous by the TV series Game of Thrones.

The Dark Hedges are a famous avenue of beech trees between Stranocum and Armoy in Northern Ireland. The trees have become famous as a result of being used as a location in the Game of Thrones TV series, and it has become a regular stop for day tours of Northern Ireland which also visit nearby Giants Causeway.

Roughly 150 trees were planted around 1775 by landowner James Stuart on the road leading to his new house, Gracehill. The branches of the trees either side of the road have formed an archway, which makes a very atmospheric and impressive entrance to the estate.

Vehicles are no longer allowed to travel along the Dark Hedges, but there is a car – and coach – park a two-minute walk away.

44. Brighton Pier

Image of Brighton Pier England UK

Location: Brighton, South England

What is it: Famous English seaside Pier

Also known as Brighton Palace Pier, Brighton Pier is one of the best -known landmarks on the south coast of England. It was originally the third pier in the city, built to replace the earlier Chain Pier, which collapsed in 1896. It was originally home to a theatre, which was replaced in the 1980s by a large amusement arcade.

The seaward end of the Pier is home to a funfair with traditional rides ranging from the Turbo roller coaster to a haunted house and, for the more sedate among us, a revolving teacup ride.

45. Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff

Image of fireworks at the wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay

Location: Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, Wales.

What is it: World-class arts centre with outstanding accoustics.

The Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay is one of the most iconic British buildings of the last twenty years. As its name suggests, it was conceived as one of many millennium projects around the UK, but only opened in November 2004.

Its façade is unmistakable, with two phrases by poet Gwyneth Lewis – one in English, ‘In these stones horizons sing’ and one in Welsh, ‘‘Creu gwir fel gwydr o ffwrnais awen’’. The latter translates as ‘Creating truth like glass from the furnace of inspiration’.

The Wales Millennium Centre was definitely worth the wait – the main auditorium, the Donald Gordon Theatre, has possibly the best acoustics we’ve ever encountered worldwide. There are also several smaller performance spaces, and ongoing events well worth seeing.

46. Bath Abbey

Image of Bath Christmas Market and Abbey

Location: Bath, Somerset, South West England.

What is it: Magnificent Abbey and former Benedictine monastery

Bath Abbey church was built in the early 16 th century in the English Perpendicular style. It’s one of the most beautiful examples of its kind, and one of the finest churches in England.

It’s a wondrous sight from outside – it dominates the view from the Roman Baths across the square – but its greatest beauty lies within.

Its intricate soaring fan vaults are stunning, on a par with those in King’s College Chapel, Cambridge and St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle.

The present church was begun over 900 years after the first monastic foundation at Bath (in 675 AD). Within a few decades of completion, the new Church was ruined after Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries, and its first restoration then took another half a century.

Bath is one of the best historical places in England to visit, with the Roman Baths and 18 th century Pump Room restaurant very close by. Much of the city also has two UNESCO World Heritage Site designations – for its Georgian architecture and as one of the Great European Spas.

See Also : Famous Landmarks in Bath and 12 Famous Streets In Bath

47. Minack Theatre

Image of the Minack Theatre Cornwall England UK

Location: Porthcurno, near Land’s End in Cornwall, South West England.

What is it : Superb open-air theatre jutting into the sea .

The Minack Theatre , built into cliffs a few miles south of Land’s End in Cornwall, is one of the most spectacular theatres in the world.

It was founded by Rowena Cade, who moved to Porthcurno after World War I, buying a house at Minack Point. The idea of a theatre at the site was conceived after a performance of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream by a local group in 1929, and she offered the land below her garden for a production of The Tempest the following year.

The theatre now runs up to twenty performances each year, in the summer season between May and September. You can also visit the theatre during these months – and while you’re there, don’t miss amazing Porthcurno beach.  

48. South Stack Lighthouse Anglesey

Image of South Stack lighthouse Anglesey at sunset

Location: Isle of Anglesey, North Wales

What is it: Famous working lighthouse and breathtaking sunset spot.

South Stack Lighthouse is one of the best-known North Wales landmarks, and familiar to many who have made the sea crossing from Dublin to nearby Holyhead. It’s the most famous of the five working lighthouses on Anglesey , on an islet at the foot of soaring, forbidding cliffs that are also among the most important seabird nesting sites in Wales.

It’s the one Anglesey lighthouse that you can visit, albeit after a 400-step descent and a steep climb back up. South Stack is also renowned as a great sunset spot for much of the year -our shot is from the summer.

49. Harlech Castle, Wales

Image of Harlech Castle Wales UK

Location: Harlech, Gwynedd, Wales.

What is it: A medieval castle and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Harlech Castle is one of the great Welsh castles, and one of the four that comprise the Castles of King Edward I in Gwynedd UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It has one of the most dramatic settings of any Welsh castle, with the peaks of Snowdonia just to the north and one of the best Cardigan Bay beaches , Harlech Beach, just a mile (1.6 km) away.

Harlech is smaller than Conwy or Caernarfon, but presented a formidable challenge to any attacker. The rocky precipice on which it stands was a sea cliff, but the sea has retreated over the ensuing seven centuries.

The Castle saw action several times, withstanding an early siege by Welsh prince Madog ap Llywelyn before being captured over a century later by another Welsh prince, Owain Glyndwr.

It was later besieged for seven years during the Wars of the Roses, inspiring the famous song ‘Men of Harlech’. It also saw service during the English Civil War.

50. Iona Abbey

Image of Iona Abbey Scotland UK

Location: The island of Iona, off the west coast of Scotland.

What is it : One of the oldest and most important religious centres in Western Europe.

The humble stone church of the Abbey of Iona is located on the island of the same name, just off the Isle of Mull on the west coast of Scotland. It was one of the main centres of Celtic Christianity in the British Isles, and the monastery founded by St Columba in 563 AD played a huge role in converting the Scots and Picts to the faith.

This remote island was a major centre of learning, and in between Viking raids its monks produced the world-famous Book of Kells, which is now held in Dublin. The church and abbey fell into ruin after the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1537, and the church was only rebuilt in the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries.

Iona Abbey was also reconstituted, this time with nuns living there, and the island has become an important pilgrimage site over the last few decades.

Famous British landmarks Map

To use this map , simply use your fingers or mouse to zoom in and out, and click on the icons to see more information about each location.

Famous UK Landmarks – Final Words

I hope you have enjoyed my guide to the best 50 UK landmarks, and that some of them have given you ideas for a trip soon.

If you have enjoyed this article, check out some of my more detailed articles on landmarks in Britain. My article on famous London landmarks covers 50 locations around the capital.

If you enjoy the likes of Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral, then check out my guide to the best 25 churches in London to visit.

Meanwhile, my article on the best l andmarks in England introduces more great places to visit. And for somewhere smaller (and beautiful) take a look at my articles on landmarks in Bath and the most beautiful streets in Bath .

If you’re thinking of heading west, then take a look at my guides to the best landmarks in Wales , and the most famous landmarks in Cardiff .

You can read more of my articles on famous landmarks in Europe below:

  • Famous landmarks in Venice
  • Famous UK landmarks
  • Famous Spanish landmarks
  • Famous Landmarks in England
  • Famous landmarks in Italy
  • Famous landmarks in Austria
  • Famous landmarks in Poland
  • Famous landmarks in Prague
  • Famous landmarks in Ireland
  • Famous landmarks in Greece
  • Famous landmarks in Berlin
  • Famous landmarks in France
  • Famous landmarks in Portugal

Image of David Angel found of Delve into Europe Travel Blog / Website

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

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Britain's best tourist attractions you should visit

15 December 2021

Destinations

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The best tourist attractions in Britain

Stratford-upon-Avon.

Stratford-upon-Avon. Firipu at wts wikivoyage / CC

Are you planning a trip to Britain? If so, this list is perfect for you. Join us as we take a look at some of the most interesting attractions the UK has to offer. 

Great Britain has an abundance of fascinating sites and attractions, and we hope this list will be a good starting point for you as you plan your visit to the UK. Whether you're after a relaxing vacation or the adventure of a lifetime, there is something for everyone in this list. 

  • Reasons to visit Britain
  • The Explorations of Ernest Shackleton
  • 5 things to be aware of before you visit Britain

Game of Thrones Sites 

Did you know that there are several sites around the UK that were used as locations for Game of Thrones?  From the flaxen grasses of the Dothraki Sea to the shadowy clearings of the Haunted Forest where the White Walkers roam, you can find it all in the UK.

The Dark Hedges in Northern Ireland at sunset

The Dark Hedges in Northern Ireland at sunset

Tower of London 

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Tower of London is a building steeped in history. See the crown jewels, explore Kew Gardens, or bask in the glory of the banquet house - the options are endless. 

The Tower of London

The Tower of London

Titanic Belfast

Experience the world's most famous ship in the very spot it was created. Consisting of 9 interactive galleries, the Titanic Experience is a world-renowned tourist destination and one of the most popular on our list. 

Titanic Experience Belfast

Titanic Experience Belfast

St. Andrews

A must for any golf or sports fan, St. Andrews is known around the world as the home of golf. The Scottish seaside town is as picturesque as they come and is also home to the world-famous St. Andrews University. who knows, you may even see some royalty floating about while you're there. 

St. Andrews

We couldn't leave Wales out! Snowdonia is a mountainous region in northwest Wales that offers up some absolutely stunning scenery. Perfect for anyone looking for a physical adventure, Snowdonia is filled with villages and the potential for fun activities. 

Snowdonia

Stratford-upon-Avon

Did you know you can visit the very house that William Shakespeare lived in? Steeped in history, you'll find it incredibly easy to meander around the quaint village. Stratford-upon-Avon is an ideal destination for anyone in search of a quiet getaway. 

Stratford-upon-Avon

The Giant's Causeway 

Here at British Heritage Travel we believe the Giant's Causeway to be one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Europe. The result of an ancient volcanic eruption, the Giant's Causeway truly is a sight to behold. 

Giant's Causeway

Giant's Causeway

There you have it, seven of our favorite destinations in the UK. Keep in mind however it is only the tip of the iceberg!

* Originally published in Feb 2020.

Related: Stonehenge , Stratford-upon-Avon

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British Museum, London.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

See an A-Z listing of attractions in London . This list of sights in Britain's capital includes art galleries, cafes, cathedrals, churches, museums, parks, pubs, and restaurants.

Find also bus routes, stations, and tube lines for getting around the city by public transport.

Places to see in London include such world famous institutions as the British Museum, the Tate Modern, the Natural History Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, the Imperial War Museum, the Victoria & Albert Museum, the Science Museum, and the Wallace Collection.

Camden High Street, London.

A = Acton Central

Admiralty Arch

Afternoon Tea At Claridges

Albert Bridge

Albert Memorial

Alfred Hitchcock

ArcelorMittal Orbit

Aquatics Centre

Art Deco London

Art Galleries

No. 7 More London Riverside aka The Batman Building.

B = Batman Building

Battersea Peace Pagoda

Battersea Power Station

BBC Broadcasting House

Beaufort Bar in The Savoy

Bela Bartok Statue

Berwick Street

Blackfrairs Station

Blue Plaques

Blueprint Cafe

Bobby Moore Statue

Borough Market

Boston Manor House

British Library

British Museum

Brixton Tube Station

Brondesbury Station

Buckingham Palace

Tower Bridge, London, England, UK.

C = Cafe Nell

Camden High Street

Canary Wharf

Canary Wharf Station

Carnaby Street

Cartoon Museum

Cathedrals in London

Charles Dickens Coffee House

Chelsea Physic Garden

Chief Coffee Chiswick

Claridge's Afternoon Tea

Coal Drops Yard

Covent Garden Station

Crown & Anchor

Cutty Sark Greenwich

Harrods, Knightsbridge, London.

D = Department Stores

Doctor Johnston's House

Downing Street

Dulwich Park

E = Earl's Court Exhibition Centre

Egyptian Sculpture Gallery British Museum

Electric Ballroom Camden

Elizabeth Line

Emirates Greenwich Peninsula Station

Euston Station

F = Farringdon Station

Finding Somewhere To Stay In London

Finsbury Park

Finsbury Park Mosque

Frank's Cafe Acton

Friends House Euston

Freemasons Hall London

Frieze Sculpture

Fuller's London Pride

Natural History Museum.

G = Gayer-Anderson Cat

George & Dragon Acton

George Duke of Cambridge Statue

Gladstone Park

Globe Theatre

Golden Hinde

Golders Hill Park

Greenwich Foot Tunnel

Greenwich Market

Greenwich Meridian

Gunnersbury Museum

St. Saviour's Dock, a slice of Victorian history near Tower Bridge.

H = Heathrow Terminals 123

HMS Belfast (River Thames)

Houses of Parliament

Horse & Groom Belgravia

Horse Guards

Hoxton Apprentice

Horse Guards, London.

I = Isis Statue

J = James M Barrie’s London Residence

Jeremy Bentham

K = Kensington Palace

Kenwood House

Kew Gardens Pagoda

Kew Gardens Temperate House

King's Cross Station

Leadenhall Market, England, UK.

L = Lambeth North Station

Leadenhall Market

Leighton House

Little Venice

Lister Hospital

Lloyd's Building

London Art Galleries

London Boroughs

London Bridges

London Bus 82

London Bus 189

London Bus 332

London City Hall

London Markets

London Museums

London Oratory

London Troxy

Canary Wharf Station, London, England, UK

M = Mainline Stations

Map of London

Marble Arch Horse Head Statue

Marie Stopes House

Millennium Bridge

Museum of London

National Gallery, London.

N = National Gallery

Natural History Museum

National Portrait Gallery

Nelson's Ship in a Bottle

Newport Street Gallery

No. 1 Poultry

North Greenwich Station

O = O2 Arena

One Marylebone

Osterley Park & Manor

Outsider Tart

Oxford Street Christmas Lights

London Paddington Station at night.

P = Paddington Station

Palace Theatre

Park Lane Hotel Palm Court

Physical Energy Statue

Piccadilly Circus

Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery

Portobello Road

Priory Church of St Bartholomew the Great

St. Paul's Cathedral.

Q = Queen's Head Chiswick

R = RCA Battersea

Regent's Park

Richmond Park

River Thames

Robert Clive Statue

Routemaster London Bus

Royal Academy of Arts

Royal Albert Hall

Royal Opera House (ROH)

The Walkie Talkie, London, UK

S = Saatchi Gallery

Sadler's Wells

Santander Cycles

Science Museum

Serpentine Gallery

Serpentine Sackler Gallery

Shad Thames & St. Saviour's Dock

Shepherd's Bush Station

Sir John Soane's Museum

Skyscrapers

Somerset House

Spaniards Inn

Spitalfields Winter Festival

St James's Church Piccadilly

St James's Park

St Martin-in-the-Fields

St Pancras International

St. Paul's Cathedral

Statue of Eros

Student London

London Underground.

T = Talbot Square

Tate Britain

Tate Modern

Tayyab's Restaurant

The 100 Club

The Barfly Camden

The Big Easy

The Cambridge

The Cartoon Museum

The Gherkin

The Holly Bush

Tower Bridge

Tower of London

Tower Ravens

Travel Bookshop

Tube Stations

American Embassy, London.

U = Underground Lines

V = Victoria & Albert Museum

Virgin Records

W = Wallace Collection

Waterloo Station

Wembley Central

Wembley Park Station

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Cathedral

Westminster Tube Station

Willesden Junction

Wimbledon Common

Winter Events

Winter Wonderland Hyde Park

Women of World War II Monument

Y = Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

Z = London Zoo

Westminster Cathedral, London, England

Hotels in the UK

England Hotels - Booking.com

London Hotels - Booking.com

Scotland Hotels - Booking.com

Wales Hotels - Booking.com

Northern Ireland Hotels - Booking.com

Hotels in Britain - Agoda.com

London Attractions Tickets - Tiqets.com

Visit our partner sites:

  • Britain All Over - guide to Britain
  • Iran Visitor - guide to Iran
  • Portugal Visitor - guide to Portugal
  • Beijing Visitor - guide to China

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UK Travel Planning

Ultimate London Bucket List (+tips to plan your visit)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 13, 2023

LONDON BUCKET LIST A TO Z

Are you planning to visit London and feeling overwhelmed putting together your itinerary? In this article, discover 23 of the very best sights, attractions and landmarks that first-time travellers to London should consider visiting. In addition for those seeking some of London’s hidden gems or further inspiration our A – Z of London attractions includes additional suggestions and a complete bucket list of ideas.

Whether you are visiting London for the first time (or even the second/third or fourth time) there is so much to see and do in the UK capital that deciding what to include in your itinerary can be overwhelming.

Questions you may be asking include:

How many days should I plan to spend in London to see the sights?

  • What are the most popular sights, landmarks and attractions in London?
  • Do I need to book tickets in advance for attractions?
  • How much time do I need at each attraction?

Which London sights, landmarks and attractions are free?

Which attractions are included in the london pass and london explorer pass.

In this article, I will answer these questions and more to help you put together your own personal London bucket list and so you can start planning your London itinerary with confidence (whether you are spending one day in London, two days in London or a week in London!)

I am aware that there is a huge amount of information contained in this article. I have structured the information into three parts:

  • Section 1 – Frequently Answered Questions (FAQs) about planning your London itinerary
  • Section 2 – My selection of the 23 very best London sights, landmarks and attractions that are worth your time + a map of their locations.
  • Section 3 – A comprehensive London bucket list that includes all the top sights PLUS some lesser-known attractions and hidden gems.
  • I am visiting London for the first time -what are the most popular sights, places and attractions in London that I shouldn't miss?

Do I need to book tickets in advance for London attractions?

Popular london attractions – advance purchase and/or fast track tickets, how much time do i need at each london attraction, map of locations, afternoon tea.

  • Art – Galleries and Street Art

British Museum

Buckingham palace, baker street, the barbican centre, borough market, changing of the guard, churchill war rooms, chelsea flower show, covent garden, carnaby street, day trips from london, downing street (number 10), emirates cable car, hampton court , hampstead heath, the imperial war museum, the crown jewels, kings cross (for harry potter fans), kew gardens, leadenhall market , leicester square , lords cricket ground, millennium bridge.

  • Neal's Yard

Notting Hill 

Natural history museum, oxford street, parliament (houses of), pudding lane, piccadilly circus, primrose hill, portobello market.

  • Queen's House Greenwich

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Richmond park, regents park.

  • St Paul's Cathedral
  • Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Tower of London

Tower bridge, the underground (tube), up at the o2, v&a museum, westminster abbey, xmas markets, yeoman warders (beefeaters), related reading, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks).

Are you planning a visit to the UK 2

SECTION 1 – FAQs about how to plan your London itinerary

If you are a first-time visitor to London we recommend 3 to 4 days to see most of the most popular London sights and attractions.

This will give you time to see the main landmarks (take a tour or a hop-on hop-off bus ) plus a few of the main tourist attractions of your choice. Read: How to buy London attractions tickets

Don’t try to do and see everything – there really is too much – and it is easy to underestimate how exhausting it can be.

I am visiting London for the first time -what are the most popular sights, places and attractions in London that I shouldn’t miss?

There are lots of things to see and do in London and deciding what you want to include in your itinerary will depend on your interests, how much time you will be spending in London and your budget.

However, there are sights, landmarks, and attractions that are popular with tourists visiting for the first time .

In the next section of this article, I have identified 23 of these top sights with essential information and tips to help you decide if this is a ‘must-see’ for you when you visit.

Read our guide to the best London bus tours (a great way to see the main sights of London) or the best London boat trips and cruises

I recommend purchasing tickets in advance for the most popular London attractions. While you may be able to buy a ticket on the day it is not guaranteed especially during peak season.

I recommend booking tickets in advance for the London Eye , Tower of London , Westminster Abbey, and any special art or museum exhibitions.

Many attractions offer discounts if you book in advance which is another incentive!

Read more – How to buy tickets for London attractions

🎡 London Eye – Ride with fantastic views over London. (Skip-the-line tickets available)

🏙 The Shard – Tallest building in the UK with commanding views over London.

⛪️ Westminster Abbey – Gothic abbey where coronations and royal weddings are held.

💎 Tower of London – Infamous prison and mighty fortress. The Crown Jewels are on display too.

⚔ Madame Tussauds – Get up close and personal with over 250 waxworks of famous people.

⛓ London Dungeon – Enjoy a recreation of some of London’s goriest and macabre historical events.

🐧 London Zoo – World’s oldest scientific zoo and a popular attraction for families.

👑 Hampton Court Palace – King Henry VIII’s favourite palace.

You could spend as much or as little time at each attraction but to make the most of your time in London it is best to plan your itinerary with a geographical location in mind.

For example, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament can be visited in a morning.

Plan around 3 to 4 hours for attractions such as the Tower of London, museums and art galleries.

Kew Gardens, Greenwich and Hampton Court are best allocated a day each to fully explore.

Take a look at my recommended London itineraries which cover one day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days and 5 days in the city plus my themed itineraries which cover the best sights and attractions based on interest.

If you are working out your London trip budget you will be pleased to hear that many of London’s popular attractions are free including. This includes

  • Museums including the British Museum, Natural History Museum, Tate Britain, Victoria and Albert Museum, National Portrait Gallery
  • Parks and markets including Hyde Park, St James’s Park, Covent Garden, Borough Market.
  • Iconic shops including Harrods and Hamleys.
  • Attractions and landmarks including the Sky Garden, Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square.

Read more – 32 free things to do in London

80 of London’s top attractions are included in the London Pass or London Explorer Pass . Purchasing one of these passes may be a more cost-effective way to see the main sights.

Read my guide to the various passes available in London and discover if a pass will save you money.

Another advantage of purchasing tickets in advance is the ability to ‘skip the line’ which saves time especially during peak tourist times of year in London.

Read our complete guide to the London Pass

Trafalgar Square

SECTION 2 – London’s 23 top sights, landmarks and tourist attractions

This is my selection of the very best sights, landmarks and attractions in London. These are the most popular with tourists and, if you are visiting London for the first time, are the best things to consider adding to your London itinerary.

Click on each attraction for more information

  • Buckingham Palace 
  • The Changing of the Guard ceremony
  • The Tower of London
  • Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
  • The London Eye
  • The British Museum
  • Trafalgar Square

St Paul’s Cathedral

  • Churchill’s War Rooms
  • Hampton Court Palace
  • Downing Street
  • Leicester Square
  • Art Galleries (Tate/National Portrait Gallery)

How to use this map – Click on the arrow in the left-hand top corner of the map for a list of each London landmark, sight, and attraction. Click on each location symbol for more information.

SECTION 3 – London A – Z

This A-Z of London links to the top 23 sights and attractions listed above with essential information and tips about each attraction to enable you to decide if you want to include it in your itinerary.

I have also indicated if the attraction is included in the London Pass to help you calculate whether buying a pass will be a cost-effective option for you.

In this section, you will also find some of the lesser-known or hidden gems to see in London. If you have been to London before or simply want to see something a little different you will find them included in this A-Z of London.

The London A-Z is also available to download to access on your device – just click the link below!

AFTERNOON TEA | ART

A picture of afternoon tea with cakes

What can be more traditional when visiting London than to treat yourself to an afternoon tea. It is one of the most popular activities for visitors and there are lots of options to choose from to suit all tastes. Do check the dress code for your afternoon tea venue as some can be quite dressy!

  • WHERE – There are a variety of afternoon teas to try when visiting London including themed such as Harry Potter/Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, traditional (the Ritz) and even one on a London bus!
  • COST – Varies but expect to pay upwards of £25 p/p
  • RECOMMENDED AFTERNOON TEA  – My choice is the London bus afternoon tea experience! Enjoy your traditional afternoon tea whilst touring the sights of London. 
  • For kids why not try the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory afternoon tea at One Aldwych or the Mad Hatter’s Afternoon tea and the Sanderson.

A view of the Tate modern in London

A rt – Galleries and Street Art

If you enjoy art there are a multitude of museums to visit in London. The most popular are the Tate Modern, National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery and Tate Britain. There is also a thriving street art scene to explore. 

  • WHERE – For street art head to Brick Lane, Camden or Shoreditch.
  • COST – Free though there may be costs for some major exhibitions.
  • RECOMMENDED TOUR FOR ART LOVERS – Why not discover London’s best art galleries on a guided tour? On this 3 art galleries tour visit the Tate Modern, National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery in the company of an expert guide to help you get the most of your time.
  • If street art is more your thing check out this 2 1/2 hour walking tour of London’s East End and learn about life for Cockneys in this alternative side of the capital.

BRITISH MUSEUM | BIG BEN | BRICK LANE | BAKER STREET | BARBICAN | BUCKINGHAM PALACE | BOROUGH MARKET

The atrium at the British Museum

Head to Bloomsbury and the British Museum to discover lots of treasure mainly pinched from former British colonies (and controversially refusing to return some of them).

You can find the Rosetta Stone, the Sutton Hoo Ship Burial Helmet, Easter Island statue as well as lots of Egyptian mummies and treasures, Greek antiquities(the Parthenon Marbles) and much much more.

The British Museum is one of many free museums and attractions in London and is visited by over 6 million people every year so try to plan your trip avoiding school holidays and weekends if possible.

Book your guided tour of the museum here!

  • WHERE – Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG
  • NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Tottenham Court Road/Holborn/Russell Square

COST – Free

A picture of Big Ben and Houses of Parliament

Big Ben is actually the name of the bell which is located in the Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. The tower with its four-faced clock is probably the most iconic symbol of London.

The bell was installed over 160 years ago and rings on the hour every hour. It is the largest of the 5 bells in the tower.

Please note that at present the tower and clock faces are completely covered in scaffolding due to renovations. These started in 2017 and are expected to be completed in 2021.

NEAREST TUBE STATION – Westminster

A picture of different curries in pans

Head to the heart of the East End and you will find Brick Lane. Famous for street art, curry houses and vintage fashion markets Brick Lane is a great destination for those seeking to get off the normal tourist path.

  • NEAREST TUBE STATION – Aldgate East
  • BEST TOUR – Take a street art tour of London which includes Brick Lane and onto the notorious area of Whitechapel where Jack the Ripper roamed in the 19th century .

Buckingham Palace in London

Buckingham Palace probably deserves to be the number one destination on your bucket list for London. It’s where the Queen lives and works and it is the headquarters of the monarchy.

It’s also one heck of a house—it’s got a whopping 828,820 square feet! Queen Victoria made it her official residence in 1837 and turned the relatively modest Buckingham House into the world famous palace we all know and love.

Today, it’s the star of national and royal celebrations. The palace is usually not open to the public but in the summer you can tour the State Apartments and see the Queen’s art collection and garden.

What you can always see is the Changing of the Guard which happens every day at 11:30 a.m. during the summer and every other morning in the winter.

  • WHERE – Westminster, London SW1A 1AA
  • NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Hyde Park Corner / Green Park 
  • COST – Watching the Changing of the Guard is free
  • BEST TOUR – Click here to book your tour of the state rooms in Buckingham Palace

In the Marylebone district of the city of Westminster, between Regent’s Park and Hyde Park, you’ll find Baker Street, one of central London’s busiest thoroughfares.

One glance at its street sign and you’ll start searching the crowds for that famous resident of 221B Baker Street , Mr Sherlock Holmes. You may not find the world’s favourite sleuth, but you will see the Sherlock Holmes Museum , a must for any mystery aficionado.

But Baker Street is about more than the fictional detective. It was once the epicentre of the punk rock movement, so no wonder there’s a rock memorabilia store a few paces up the street.

There are also plenty of restaurants and shops to explore, not to mention Madame Tussauds Waxworks , which is right around the corner on Marylebone Road.

  • WHERE – Marylebone district, City of Westminster
  • NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Marylebone / Baker Street
  • TIP – The Sherlock Holmes Museum is a fun attraction £6 Adults, £4 Children or why not take a Sherlock Holmes walking tour ?

A view of the Barbican building in London

It’s a rainy day in London and you’ve got antsy kids in tow and not a lot of cash in your pocket. Why not head over to the Barbican Centre?

It’s the largest multifunctional arts venue in Europe. Not only does it host films, art exhibits, music, theatre and dance but there are communal spaces like its pond and gardens.

There are three restaurants on the premises as well as a library — and there’s free Wi-Fi throughout. In fact, if you want to skip the performances and just wait out the rain, the Barbican Centre is free to visit.

They also provide tours, one of which is an architectural tour that explains the fascinating use of space and visual details within the building.

  • WHERE Silk St, Barbican, London EC2Y 8DS
  • NEAREST TUBE STATIONS Barbican / Moorgate
  • HOURS Monday – Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. 
  • BEST TOUR – Take a fun self-guided discovery game and discover the Barbican. Check the box office for shows and times.

CHURCHILL WAR ROOMS | CHANGING OF THE GUARD | COVENT GARDEN | CARNABY STREET | CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW | CAMDEN 

BUCKINGHAM PALACE AND THE CHANGING OF THE GUARD

Witness the change over of the guard outside Buckingham Palace. Lasting around 45 minutes the ceremony is an iconic example of pomp and pageantry and really should feature on every first-time visitor’s itinerary.

  • WHERE – Buckingham Palace and Clarence House
  • NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Victoria, Green Park, St James’s Park.
  • WHEN – Contrary to belief the Changing of the Guard ceremony does not occur every day so it is vital to check on the official website before adding it into your itinerary.
  • TIP – Arrive at least 30 minutes before the ceremony to secure a good vantage point. Stand on the steps of the Victoria Monument for the best view.
  • Alternatively head to St James’s Palace – Clarence House where there is a smaller, shorter ceremony at 11 am daily (10 am Sundays) which is not as well known as the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and therefore less crowded!
  • BEST TOUR – If you want to learn more about the ceremony and the history around it I recommend booking a Changing of the Guard Experience.

This museum is a must-do if you want a real sense of what Churchill and his inner circle went through during World War II.

Descend below Westminster and back in time as you explore the cramped rooms where they ate, slept and made history-altering decisions as bombs exploded above them.

You’ll see giant maps, period telephones standing at the ready and a conference table — the site of many grim discussions. You can feel the life and death tension as you tour each room.

There is also a Churchill museum with a rich collection of artefacts from his personal life. The audio guide is included in the admission and is invaluable to your visit. There is also an excellent virtual tour of the war rooms available online.

  • WHERE – Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London SW1A2AQ
  • NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Westminster / St. James Park
  • COST – £23 Adult £11.50 Children (5-15)
  • TIP – Book online and avoid the long lines.

INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS? Yes  

A bunch of Protea flowers

If you are a flower lover or just an anglophile who adores unique British traditions, visiting the RHS Chelsea Flower Show would be one of the best London activities to do.

Since 1913, the show has been the grandest horticultural event in the city and has become the biggest flower show in the world. It’s always held in May on the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea .

Expert gardeners from castles, cathedrals and the finest country homes are at the ready to share their lifetime of flower growing knowledge.

At the Chelsea Flower Show, it doesn’t matter if you’re a celebrity, part of the British elite or the commonest of commoners. They are all there because they can’t get enough of the colourful arrays of perfectly grown flowers.

  • WHERE – London Gate Royal Hospital Road, Royal Hospital Chelsea London SW34SR
  • NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Sloane Square / South Kensington
  • COST – Prices vary per day, so check online.
  • TIP – If you love exploring gardens but are not in London for the show (or can’t get tickets why not book a Secret Gardens of London Full-Day Tour ?

The tour is full-day sightseeing tour designed for lovers of flowers and gardens. You will discover hidden away places and visit the London Garden Museum, Chelsea Physic Garden and more. The tour also includes High Tea at the Chelsea Physic Garden (a hidden gem in London)

Covent Garden at Christmas

The Covent Garden is an area in London’s West End that has lived many lives. It was a thriving fruit and vegetable market in the 1600s and went on to become a hub of prostitution and seediness in the late 1700s. Later, in the 1800s, it became a flourishing theatre community.

Today, it is now a perfectly respectable, culturally rich and happening entertainment destination. There is a pedestrian piazza at its centre where you can watch the street performers as you decide which of the cafés, shops, market stalls and pubs to patronize.

It’s also the home of the Royal Opera House , the London Transport Museum and the London Film Museum .

The best way to enjoy a Covent Garden evening is to check out what’s playing at the theatres, have a fabulous dinner and then finish the evening with a show.

  • WHERE – The eastern edge of the West End, between St Martin’s Lane and Drury Lane.
  • NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Covent Garden / Leicester Square

A picture showing Christmas lights at Carnaby Street

Carnaby Street is a busy pedestrian shopping street in Soho, just a short walk from the Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus tube stations.

It’s positively packed with quirky independent clothing stores, trendy boutiques, jewellery shops and edgy salons, all with real personality.

If you get hungry after walking the bricked streets, you’ll have your choice of 21 different restaurants and bars at Kingly Court — a large, three-story restaurant paradise. It has a lovely, open courtyard complete with tall trees bedecked with tiny white lights, giving your meal an extra special feeling. The roof stays open in the summer and is covered in the winter.

Kingly Court offers so many food options, you’ll have a ball scrutinizing those menus and choosing just the right place to eat.

  • WHERE – Soho, London’s West End
  • NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Oxford Circus / Piccadilly Circus / Tottenham Court Road

Pastel coloured streets in Camden

Camden, or Camden Town, is in northwest London and has been a residential district since the 1790s. In the 1800s, canals were built that connected Camden to London, which became water highways for transporting goods.

It wasn’t long before Camden was a full-fledged part of London. Now tourists know it as a place with great restaurants, a variety of interesting markets and the home of some legendary music venues.

Places like Roundhouse , The Electric Ballroom and the Barfly, now known as the Camden Assembly , have been the go-to venues for years, especially in the late 70s when punk music was king.

Check out the websites for those old venues and see if there’s anything playing that appeals to you. As Elvis Costello would say if you want to have the time of your life or something quite like it, head to Camden and see what all the fuss is about.

  • WHERE – Northwest London
  • NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Camden Town / Morning Crescent

DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON | DOWNING STREET

4 photographs of places in England- a row of houses, a baths, a castle and an old round building

There are some amazing places to visit from London on a day trip. I would recommend if you have time that you break up your London itinerary with a couple of trips to some of the wonderful cities and areas of the country within easy reach by train.

  • WHERE – There are lots of beautiful towns, villages and cities and more to visit within easy reach of London for a day trip including Bath , Oxford, the Cotswolds , and Stonehenge. There are also a number of castles near London which make easy day trips! Deciding which place to visit may be your most difficult decision.
  • HOW – Jump on a train or take a guided tour (if you decide to hire a car I would pick it up from outside the capital to save the stress of driving from central London)
  • BEST TOURS – There are so many great day tours from London but if you want to see as much as possible in a day why not book a tour which includes a number of places such as a visit to Oxford and the Cotswolds or even Windsor Castle, Bath and Stonehenge.

EMIRATES CABLE CAR

A view from the Emirates cable car

Because so much of getting around the city is via the London Underground, why not change things up and go airborne?

The Emirates Cable car crosses the Thames between the Royal Docks and the Greenwich Peninsula , offering both a novel way to travel and a unique view of the city.

You’ll have approximately 10 minutes each way to snap some pictures and take in the sights as you glide across the Thames. The cars arrive every 30 seconds and each holds between 8 and 10 people. They are also kept nice and tidy and play charming music during the trip.

Try the night flight experience starting at 7:00 p.m. Trips are longer so you really have time to take in the sunset or the twinkling evening lights of London.

  • WHERE – Emirates Cable Car Terminal, Edmund Halley Way, London SE10 0FR

NEAREST TUBE STATION – North Greenwich

  • COST – £4.50 Adults £2.30 Children (5 and over) each way
  • HOURS – Check the website, as times change throughout the seasons.

INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS? NO

FOOTBALL (CHELSEA/ARSENAL/WEMBLEY)

An aerial photograph of Wembley Stadium in London

Chelsea and Arsenal football fans can visit the respective grounds of Stamford Bridge and Emirate and pay homage to their team. 

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – 

For Chelsea – Fulham Broadway on the District Line

For Arsenal – Arsenal on the Piccadilly Line.

INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS? Arsenal FC stadium is included

A picture of ornate gates painted in black and gold

It’s easy to plan a sightseeing day in Greenwich — that quaint London borough on the banks of the River Thames.

First stop, the National Maritime Museum . You’ll be immersed in all things nautical while you browse through over 1,000 historical objects.

After that, climb aboard the restored 19th-century clipper ship, the Cutty Sark . You’ll have some hands-on, sea-faring fun, especially if you bring the kids.

Then, slow things down by taking a peaceful stroll through Greenwich Park. From there, it’s straight to the pub for a pint or a spot of tea and a snack.

Now that you’ve got your second wind, head to the Royal Observatory and take a selfie as you stand on the Meridian Line.

There’s also the O2 arena and the classical buildings of the Old Royal Navy College to see. Whew! That’s one heck of a Greenwich exploration day.

WHERE – South London

HYDE PARK| HAMPTON COURT | HARRODS | HAMPSTEAD HEATH

A picture of cherry blossom on trees at Hyde Park in London

Hyde Park started life when Henry VIII seized it from the monks of Westminster Abbey in 1536 and turned it into a royal hunting preserve. In 1637, Charles I opened it to the public.

Today, this largest of the four Royal Parks is the go-to place for Londoners to take a jog, walk their dog or just get some fresh air. It has been the site of massive demonstrations and epic concerts like the Rolling Stones, Paul Simon and Eric Clapton.

Look for the famous marble arch, the former the entrance of Buckingham Palace that was moved to Hyde Park in 1851. There are several restaurants in the park and don’t forget about the bicycle and boat rentals.

There is also a lovely memorial to Princess Diana that is not to be missed. So put on your walking shoes and plan to spend a peaceful day enjoying all that the park has to offer.

WHERE – Central London, in the Borough of Westminster

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Lancaster Gate / Marble Arch / Hyde Park Corner / Knightsbridge

If you’ve ever been curious to see the pleasure palace where Henry VIII and the Tudors ate, drank and were merry, you must visit Hampton Court .

It’s a large complex of buildings and gardens opened to the public back in 1838 by Queen Victoria, much to the chagrin of the downtrodden aristocrats who still called it home.

The palace evolved throughout the ages as each new royal owner whimsically remodelled or added features.

Drink in the history of the Great Hall and then be treated to some of the greatest art pieces that the Royal Collection has to offer.

Don’t forget to leave time for a go at the most famous hedge maze in England.

WHERE – Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Wimbledon / Richmond, where connecting bus routes are available.

COST – £21.30 Adults £10.70 Children

INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS? YES

A trip to Harrods is like stepping into a luxury shopping whirlwind. The colors, the fashion, the excitement — it’s easy to understand why the largest department store in Europe attracts over 15 million shoppers per year.

Browse through 7 floors and over 330 departments to find a vast array of merchandise.

Shopping’s not your thing? The ornately decorated building with Egyptian and art nouveau themes is worth the trip by itself.

Can’t afford designer duds? No problem. Their Food Hall has displays of savoury and sweet offerings that would tempt even the harshest critic.

WHERE – 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7XL

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Knightsbridge / Hyde Park Corner

HOURS – Monday to Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sunday 11:30 to 4:00 p.m.

TIP – If you’re pinching pennies, pick up a Harrods Gold Bar — their super yummy Belgian chocolate bar in a gift-worthy gold box. It runs a cool £10.00.

View of London at sunrise from Hampstead Heath

Just four miles from Trafalgar Square, you’ll find Hampstead Heath , one of the largest and most comprehensive green spaces in the city. It is open 365 days a year and is very popular.

There is a zoo and butterfly house for starters. The Hill Garden and Pergola is a restored Edwardian garden, so ideal for weddings that the appearance of a blushing bride would seem only logical. Then, there’s the Kenwood House — a lovely, cream-coloured historical manor containing a significant art collection.

Climb Parliament Hill for a snapshot-worthy view of the city. Then come back down and go to Golders Hill Park. It’s a manicured, open space with plenty of shade trees and a playground.

If you want to take a stroll, there is a six-mile circular walk that goes all the way around Hampstead Heath.

WHERE – West Gate Lodge, Hampstead Lane, Hampstead Heath London NW3 7JP

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Hampstead Tube Station / Highgate

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM

A picture of two guns at the entrance to the Imperial War Museum in London

If you’ve ever tried to imagine what it would have been like to be a soldier hunkered down in the trenches during World War I, or wondered what military tanks and rockets look like up close, then the Imperial War Museum is for you.

There are six floors covering both world wars, heavy weapons, special forces and covert operations.

There’s also a touching Holocaust exhibition. Perhaps the most impressive part of this museum is its atrium which features a Harrier Jet and Spitfire plane suspended in the air.

Plan to spend at least three hours exploring this historic museum.

WHERE – Lambeth Rd, London SE1 6HZ

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Lambeth North / Waterloo

HOURS – 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. daily

TIP – The busiest time in the museum is from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

JEWELS (CROWN)

A picture of a crown on a red velvet cloth

A visit to see the Crown Jewels is one of those London must-do experiences. The Crown Jewels are a stunning collection of 140 royal objects that contain a gasp-worthy 23,578 gemstones, all interwoven and displayed with unmatched artistry.

They are kept under armed guard in the Jewel House in the Tower of London . The walls around the jewels are covered with pictures of the royals themselves using these pieces during ceremonies.

The pictures nicely put the jewels into context. It makes you appreciate that the Crown Jewels are living history and the symbol of one of the most powerful empires the world has ever known.

Keep in mind, no pictures are allowed to be taken in the Jewel House.

WHERE – Tower of London, London EC3N 4AB 

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Tower Hill / Aldgate

COST – The admission to see the Crown Jewels is part of the Tower of London ticket. £21.45 Adults £10.75 Children (5-15)

Why not book exclusive early access to the Crown Jewels which includes the opening ceremony and a complete Tower of London guided tour? This option is available through Take Walks which offers small group tours in London and beyond. Click here for more details.

TIP – Go early on a weekday if possible or book a tour to avoid the crowds.

KINGS CROSS (HARRY POTTER) | KEW GARDENS

A picture of a girl pushing a trolley into a wall at King's Cross Station

If you are a fan of Harry Potter then a trip to London King’s Cross train station is going to feature in your itinerary!

Take a picture wearing a scarf in your house colours – which will you choose! There is a photographer taking pics between 9 am and 9 pm daily which you can purchase in the Harry Potter shop. Or take your own photos – the choice is yours.

On that note don’t miss the shop which is based on Ollivander’s wand emporium.

WHERE – King’s Cross Station

COST – Free (until you visit the shop!)

TOURS – There are lots of Harry Potter connections with London so why not take a Harry Potter themed walking tour and discover them all?

Don’t miss a visit to Harry Potter studios just outside London – you can get there by public transport or alternatively book a tour from central London to the studios.

TIP – Queues for the trolley can get very busy during school holidays and festive periods so get there early in the day.

The palm house at Kew Gardens

Imagine a cathedral made of glass sitting in the middle of 300 acres of beautiful gardens. You’d be describing Kew Gardens, the largest botanical collection in the world that was founded in 1840.

The Palm House feels like a cathedral when you walk in — it’s vast and open with tall ceilings that allow the plants to be bathed in light coming from every direction.

Visitors of Kew Gardens also shouldn’t miss the famous Chinese Pagoda, the Kew Palace and the arboretum. It’s got 14,000 trees and you could learn something about each and every one.

Keep an eye out for Kew’s Old Lions — gnarled and towering trees that are the oldest in the gardens. The staff knows the exact date of their planting, and when you study one of them, it’s as if you can see into history.

WHERE – Richmond TW9 3AB

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Kew Gardens / Gunnersbury

COST – £14.50 Adults £7.25 Young Person (17 – 25)

HOURS – Opening times vary throughout the year, so check the website.

LONDON EYE | LEADENHALL MARKET | LEICESTER SQUARE | LORDS CRICKET GROUND

A picture of Leadenhall Market in London a popular London bucket list choice for Harry Potter fans

If you’re looking for upmarket shopping in a historical setting, then head on over to Leadenhall Market .

The market dates back to the 14th century and up until the 20th century was known as the place in London to go for meat and poultry. In the modern-day, upscale retailing has replaced the beef and the birds. Now, it’s a posh shopping pavilion for pedestrians only.

When you walk in from the street, it looks as if you’re entering a grand arched tunnel tucked in between buildings. You can’t help but look up, as there is a striking wrought iron and glass structure covering the entire market that was designed in 1881. It’s breathtaking!

Back on the ground, there are speciality stores and many restaurants, or you could just pick up a bouquet of flowers from a friendly vendor.

WHERE – Gracechurch St, Langbourn, London EC3V 1LT

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Monument / Bank / Liverpool Street

The perfect place to hang out or congregate with friends might be Leicester Square. It’s been there since 1670 and was named recently for the Leicester House, a hotel that sits on the square.

Leicester Square is in the West End of London and is pedestrianized , which means no cars and lots of space to amble around and enjoy yourself.

The square is surrounded by fish and chip shops, fast food restaurants, a multi-screen theatre with an IMAX, sit-down restaurants and a casino.

It’s a great place to people-watch or, if you’re bold, there are plenty of street-side artists just waiting to draw your caricature. That would make a fun souvenir — or maybe not.

WHERE – London’s West End

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Leicester Square / Piccadilly Circus / Covent Garden

The London Eye

L ondon Eye

One of the most popular London attractions, and a sure thing for any London bucket list, is taking a ride on the London Eye.

It is a magnificent 443-foot observation wheel on the southern bank of the Thames. Don’t worry — it’s not like an amusement park ride. It moves very slowly, at two revolutions per hour, and each of the 32 capsules is big enough to hold 25 passengers.

Before getting aboard, you’ll begin with a 4D short film. Once airborne, you’ll be wowed with stunning 360-degree views of London, including the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

WHERE The Queen’s Walk, Bishop’s, London SE1 7PB

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS Waterloo / Lambeth North / Southwark

COST £27 Adult £22 Child (3-15)

HOURS Times change throughout the year, so it’s best to consult the website. Book ahead as this is a popular attraction – book your London Eye tickets here.

A picture of a cricket ball on the Union Jack

Whether you’re a lifelong cricket fan or just someone curious to learn a little more about the game, Lord’s Cricket Ground is the ideal place to do it.

The tour begins in the museum. There you can learn about the evolution of the game and see a wide variety of memorabilia. There are posters of legendary players around every turn, complete with all of their statistics.

You’ll then tour the grounds and see the dressing rooms. Get that camera ready to take a picture of the WC trophies.

The entire tour should take about two hours. If you’re a true cricket fan, bring some tissues because it promises to be a surprisingly emotional journey.

WHERE – St John’s Wood Rd, St John’s Wood, London NW8 8QN

NEAREST TUBE STATION – St. John’s Wood / Maida Vale / Warwick Avenue

COST – £20.00 Adult £12.00 Child

INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS – YES

MARKETS | MILLENNIUM BRIDGE | MUSEUMS

A sign for Borough Market in London

I have mentioned a few of the more famous museums in this bucket list including the British Museum, Natural History Museum and the V&A Museum but London has much more worth visiting.

The following museums are also included in the London Pass :

  • Cartoon museum
  • Foundling museum
  • Guards museum
  • Museum of Rugby
  • Pollocks Toy Museum
  • The Postal Museum

The Millennium Bridge in London with a view of St Paul's Cathedral

The London Millennium Bridge may be familiar to you (it appeared in at least one Harry Potter movie filmed in London.

The bridge is a pedestrianised footbridge that stretches across the River Thames from Bankside to the City of London.

It was closed soon after opening in 2000 due to its alarming swaying motion. It opened 2 years later and is the first bridge built across the river in over 100 years.

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Blackfriars, Southwark, St Paul’s or Cannon Street

As with museums there are many markets in London that haven’t made this list!

The famous markets of Covent Garden, Portobello, Borough, Brick Lane, and Camden are just the tip of the iceberg with dozens of markets to choose from you are spoilt for choice!

Whether you are a foodie in search of the best food markets in London or are on the lookout for antiques, clothes, jewellery and more there are plenty of markets to choose from.

NOTTING HILL | NEAL’S YARD | NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

A picture showing people walking next to painted buildings in Neal's Yard London

Neal’s Yard

If you didn’t know about Neal’s Yard, one of London’s prettiest streets , you might miss it all together.

It’s a colourful collection of alternative businesses tucked within the Covent Garden streets. You’ll find quirky speciality shops and forward-thinking restaurants as well as a unique courtyard that gives off a welcoming vibe.

Only a few decades ago, Neal’s Yard was nothing more than an assortment of derelict fruit and vegetable warehouses.

Now, it’s a must-visit for locals and visitors alike. If you appreciate businesses that are committed to sustainability and happen to be charming as all get-out, then you’ll need to check out Neal’s Yard.

WHERE – Between Shorts Gardens and Monmouth Street

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Covent Garden / Leicester Square / Tottenham

HOURS – Most shops are open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. with varying hours on Sunday. Check online for opening hours for Neal’s Yard’s restaurants.

Beautiful painted buildings in London

It’s difficult not to think of Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant when someone mentions Notting Hill, but the trendy West London neighbourhood is really so much more than the rom-com that bears its name.

Notting Hill is an affluent, multicultural area known for its high-end restaurants, eclectic boutiques and go-to movie houses. It has a long history. Once a brick-making and pig farming enclave, in the 19th century it became a home for the artistic and cultural elites of London.

Today, it’s famous for the late August street festival extraordinaire known as the Notting Hill Carnival . Huge crowds come out and dance to calypso music, tipping their hat to the area’s influx of Afro-Caribbean immigration in the late 1940s.

When you visit, don’t forget to check out the Portobello Road Market . You’ll find enough antiques, vintage fashion and yummy street food to last for your whole trip.

WHERE – West London

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Notting Hill Gate / Holland Park

The entrance to the Natural History Museum in London showing a staircase and vaulted ceiling

Before you even walk in the door, you’ll be blown away by the massive and inspiring building housing the Natural History Museum.

It looks like a cross between the crowning glory of an elite learning institution and a Romanesque castle. But remember, it’s natural science you’re seeking and not architectural awe, so you step inside.

Hope — a giant blue whale suspended from the ceiling welcomes all visitors to her domain. The museum has over 80 million specimens from every branch of natural history.

You’ll see everything from geodes to the skeleton of a long-necked Attenborosaurus. There are plenty of hands-on activities for the kids and instructive placards for the adults.

WHERE – Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – South Kensington / Gloucester Road / High Street Kensington

COST – Free. There may be a charge for special exhibitions.

HOURS – Open daily 10:00 a.m. – 5:50 p.m. Open late on the last Friday of each month.

OXFORD STREET

A picture showing Christmas decorations on Oxford Street

In the mood for some shopping?

Take a walk down Oxford Street, a one-and-a-half-mile-long shopper’s paradise in London’s West End. It’s Europe’s busiest shopping street, so basically, if you can’t find it on Oxford Street, it might not exist.

You’ll see department stores, brand name clothing, electronics, beauty supply and restaurants galore — it’s all there, all ripe for the picking. While browsing around, remember that you’re standing on a street dripping with history.

Oxford Street’s earlier incarnation existed during the middle ages, then became a commercial street in the 1800s. Later, it suffered heavy bombing during World War II.

Between the history and the retail overload, there’s a lot to appreciate about Oxford Street.

WHERE – The west end of London between the Marble Arch to Tottenham Court Road.

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Tottenham Court / Goodge Street / Leicester Square

TIP – Oxford Street is at its best during Christmas — it’s all done up with festive lights and decorations.

PARLIAMENT | PUDDING LANE | PICCADILLY CIRCUS | PRIMROSE HILL | PORTOBELLO MARKET

A picture of the Houses of Parliament in London

If you’ve always wanted to understand how the British Parliament works, now is your chance.

A visit to this iconic building is a must for any history buff or political junkie and is one of the most amazing things to do in London. Take a tour and you will visit the Commons Chamber, the Lords Chamber and see the nearly 1,000-year-old Westminster Hall.

There is a choice of a self-guided audio tour that goes at your own pace and uses a multimedia guide. There is also a guided tour available which is excellent but more expensive.

Tours take at least 90 minutes. Purchase tickets online or at the ticket office located in front of the Portcullis House.

Alternatively, why not book a VIP Houses of Parliament Guided Tour with Afternoon Tea on River Terraces with Take Walks? An unforgettable experience for anyone interested in British history or politics.

WHERE – Westminster, London.

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Westminster / St. James Park / Embankment

COST – £19.50 Adult £17.00 Young Adult £8.00 Child (5-15)

TIP – Prepare to wait in line for at least 30 minutes for an airport-type security screening.

The monument to the Great Fire Of London in Pudding Lane

Do you want to stand in the exact spot where the Great Fire of London erupted back in 1666?

Visit Pudding Lane, the small street that once housed Thomas Farrinier’s bakery where a few errant sparks led to one the most devastating disasters in the city’s history.

Over 80 per cent of the buildings were destroyed and no one is sure how many people lost their lives. Today the deceptively named Pudding Lane doesn’t have a bakery.

It does have an unassuming urban location and a respectful plaque, not to mention a very good view of the Monument of the Great Fire of London — over 200 feet high and well worth a visit. (Adults £4.50 Children 5-15 £2.30)

WHERE – The corner of Pudding Lane and Monument Street

NEAREST TUBE STATION – Monument

TIP – Tell the kids if they climb up and down the monument’s 311 steps, they’ll earn a free celebratory certificate.

Evening at Piccadilly Circus in London

No, it’s not a “circus” in the usual sense of the word, like with clowns and elephants. It is a round junction of five busy streets in central London.

The fountain in the centre supports a statue of a rather passive looking Anteros holding out his bow, probably brooding that he’s so often mistaken for his more famous brother Eros. That guy gets all the love.

Piccadilly Circus is a lively centre for nightlife with plenty of shops, cinemas and restaurants all under the glare of those famous neon signs. Between all the activity and the cars going round and round, this famous square has a feeling of fast-paced electricity.

WHERE – Piccadilly Circus, London W1J 9HS

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Leicester Square / Charing Cross / Green Park

A view of London from Primrose Hill with blue skies and empty benches

Here’s what you’ve got to do. Before you climb Primrose Hill on the north side of Regents Park, go to one of the eateries on Regents Park Road. Put together a picnic of all of your favourites —savoury and sweet dainties, charcuterie and cheeses — then buy a bottle of something yummy.

Take the lot up the 256 feet of Primrose Hill and spread a blanket out on the grass. Back in the day, this gorgeous piece of land used to be Henry VIII’s hunting grounds. Now it’s known for spectacular panoramic views — you can see many famous landmarks, like the London Eye and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

This place is a local favourite because of its peaceful setting. When you’ve finished with your picnic, enjoy that sunset!

WHERE – Primrose Hill Road, London, NW3

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Chalk Farm / Camden Town

If you’ve seen the movie Notting Hill , then the Portobello Road Market may look familiar to you. Hugh Grant himself saunters through the market on the way to his bookshop, dazzling moviegoers with his self-deprecating charm.

He missed out on some spectacular deals — the Portobello Market is one of the most famous street markets in the world, known for its lively sellers and haggling buyers.

On weekends, countless stalls line the street selling antiques, hot food, secondhand treasures, clothing and whatever else anyone wants to buy. The crowds are large but that’s part of the atmosphere.

Except on Thursday afternoons, the market is open during the week but it’s not nearly as crowded and lively.

WHERE – Ladbroke Grove, London W11 1LU

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Notting Hill Gate / Holland Park / Ladbroke Grove

QUEEN’S HOUSE GREENWICH

A view of Queen's House in Greenwich and the skyline of Canary Wharf

Queen’s House Greenwich

The Queen’s House in Greenwich is located in the gardens of the National Maritime Museum. The property was as the name suggests formerly a royal residence and was designed by Inigo Jones.

Housing an internationally renowned art collection there is so much for visitors to explore and enjoy for free. Don’t miss the iconic Tulip Stairs – have your camera ready as these are insta-famous! Also, an absolute delight is the painted ceiling in the Queen’s Presence Chamber.

Enjoy the views from the house of the Old Royal Naval College and the River Thames. Built after the Queen’s House the Naval College buildings were designed by Sir Christopher Wren so that they would not (at the Queen’s stipulation) block views of the river.

WHERE – Greenwich

NEAREST TUBE – Take the MBNA Thames Clipper to Greenwich Pier from all major London piers as it is easier and a great trip! Alternatively head to Cutty Sark DLR station or Greenwich rail station/DLR.

OPENING HOURS – 10 am to 5 pm daily

TIP – There are lots of places in Greenwich on this list and it really deserves to be a full day trip on any London itinerary. It is one of my own favourite destinations in London and is highly recommended!

ROYAL OBSERVATORY | RICHMOND PARK | REGENTS PARK

The Royal Observatory at the top of a hill in Greenwich London

In Greenwich Park, overlooking the Thames, you’ll find one of the most famous places in the world.

Why is the Royal Observatory so famous? Because the prime meridian passes through it, giving us Greenwich Mean Time. Learn about the Royal Observatory’s role in timekeeping, navigation and astronomy.

This is a must-do for anyone scientifically minded. You can put your hands on elaborate telescopes, see obsolete clocks, visit a planetarium and see how the astronomers of days gone by lived.

One of the most unique London experiences has got to be actually standing over the Meridian Line with one foot in the west and the other in the east. That is an Instagram moment for sure!

WHERE – Blackheath Ave, Greenwich, London SE10 8XJ

NEAREST TUBE STATION – Greenwich Park

COST – £23.65 Adult £11.85 Child – Prices are more if you purchase in person.

Need a break from the madness of the city? Steal away to the largest of London’s Royal Parks —Richmond Park.

It was created by Charles I as a deer park in the 17th century and remains one today. You will see them wandering by as you enjoy the grassy fields and winding trails. It’s enough to make you forget that you’re on the outskirts of southwest London.

Take a bike ride or a stroll — there is a hidden garden in the park’s centre and a pair of magical looking wrought iron gates that proclaim “the way.” It’s as if this fairy woodland is telling you to come on in and relax a little.

WHERE – London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, a 32-minute drive from central London.

NEAREST TUBE STATION – The National Rail or District Line then take the 371 or 65 buses to the gate at Petersham.

HOURS – Check the website for the park’s hours, as they change seasonally

A large fountain surrounded by trees in manicured gardens

If you’d like to see wildlife in its natural habitat, then a trip to Regent’s Park would most certainly be in order.

Opened to the public in 1835, it’s one of the Royal Parks and covers a whopping 410 acres. If bird watching is your passion, listen up!

At least 200 species of birds call Regent’s Park home. There are other creatures to spot as well, which is made easier by the many helpful signs explaining the habitats and what animals you may find there.

Some of Regent’s Park has been left to grow wild. Other sections, like Queen Mary’s Gardens, have formal beds of roses that are precisely manicured.

Throughout the park, you’ll also find sports pitches, formal gardens and water features. Plan to spend at least several hours or make a day of exploring this lovely park.

WHERE – Chester Rd, London NW1 4NR 

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Regent’s Park / Great Portland

HOURS – Opening times change with the seasons, so check online.

ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL | SOHO | SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE | SOUTH BANK | SKY GARDEN

A view of the Millennium Bridge and St Paul's Cathedral

Perched atop Ludgate Hill, the highest point in London, St. Paul’s Cathedral has watched over England’s capital since 1710.

The world knows it from the state funerals of Lord Nelson, Sir Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher, to name a few. Of course, who wasn’t watching the Royal Wedding in 1981 when Prince Charles said I do to Lady Diana.

Today, visitors are welcome to attend its Anglican services that are offered several times per day. You can also take a tour that grants access to the cathedral, the Whispering Gallery and the Stone and Golden Galleries.

If you have the stamina, and no hesitation about spiral staircases, climb the 528 steps to the top of the dome and take in the view. No matter what your spiritual affiliation, the Cathedral is a special place and perfect for quiet reflection.

WHERE St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – St Paul’s / Mansion / Blackfriars

COST – £18 or book fast-track entrance tickets here

INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS – NO

HOURS – Monday – Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30p.m.

The best way to enjoy Soho is on foot, exploring its lively streets of boutiques and trendy restaurants while gawking at the occasional adult-themed enterprise.

There is still a tinge of Soho’s notorious past but nowadays it’s more about the art galleries, tasting menus and immersive theatre.

For over 100 years, Soho has been a haven for creative types like William Blake and Joseph Haydn, going from a bohemian epicentre in the 30s to home sweet home for the Sex Pistols in the 80s.

Today, Soho’s nightlife is renowned, but if clubbing is not quite your scene, it can be a cool and stylish place to just hang out, have fun and people watch.

WHERE – The West End of London

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Tottenham Court Road / Leicester Square / Goodge Street

A picture of the Globe Theatre

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

You don’t have to go all the way to Stratford-upon-Avon to pay tribute to The Bard. Shakespeare’s Globe is a loving and faithful reconstruction of the Globe Theatre from Elizabethan times.

Completed in 1996 near the foundations of the old Globe, Shakespeare’s Globe has become a world-renown venue and cultural centre, bringing history and cutting edge theatre alive under its roof.

Channel your inner groundling and see a show. Feel what theatre-goers way back then must have experienced.

If time is limited, take a tour with an expert guide who will explain the history and workings of the Globe in a lighthearted and theatrical way. Hint — there may be a swordfight to behold.

WHERE – Bank of the Thames, in Bankside’s Cultural Quarter. 21 New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT. 

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Southwark / Borough / London Bridge

TIP – Guided tours available daily, but can sell out so it is recommended to book ahead.

If you want to knock out a bunch of London tourist destinations in one day , perhaps the best strategy is to situate yourself on South Bank.

It’s a lovely narrow strip of land right by the Thames that has many of London’s most popular cultural attractions. You won’t have to waste the day riding around in the Tube because everything will be footsteps away.

Look for the Jubilee Gardens, The London Eye, Imperial War Museum London, Festival Hall, the National Theatre, the British Film Institute and much more.

In between all the sightseeing, don’t forget about the shopping, restaurants, food stalls and bars. South Bank also allows for some great views across the river of the Houses of Parliament.

WHERE – Central London

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Waterloo / Southwark / Lambeth North

A glass wall with a view of London from the Sky Garden a London bucket list choice for many visitors

A combination public park, skyscraper observatory and 4 snazzy restaurants? Sign me up!

The Sky Garden in central London’s Walkie-Talkie Building bills itself as London’s highest public garden but it’s more like a sky-high atrium. It’s three stories of windows with an observation deck and an open-air terrace.

The plants are lovely and lush but it’s difficult to notice them when you’re so distracted by that spectacular view of the city.

It is free to visit but tickets are highly sought after, so book as early as possible to reserve your spot. Visits are limited to an hour but you can always extend your stay by making a reservation in one of those elegant restaurants.

WHERE – 20 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 8AF

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Monument / Bank / Cannon Street

TIP – Check the website for hours and book at least two weeks in advance.

THE SHARD | TOWER OF LONDON | TOWER BRIDGE | TRAFALGAR SQUARE

A picture of the Shard with brooding skies

The Shard may be the most distinctive looking building in London’s skyline. It looks remarkably like a shard of glass jutting out of the Thames and into the London sky.

It’s a 95 story skyscraper and boasts London’s highest observation deck . A ticket will buy you access to the 72nd flood sky deck, which features amazing views of London and beyond, depending on the weather.

You may spend as long as you like and while you’re there, why not enjoy a glass of the bubbly at London’s highest champagne bar!

WHERE – 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – London Bridge / Borough / Monument

COST – £32.00 Adults £21.25 Children (4-15)

HOURS – Summer daily 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Winter Thursday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Sunday – Wednesday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

A large white castle at the Tower of London

Taking a tour of the Tower of London is a must for anyone visiting the city. It has 900 years of British history packed within those famous walls. Just for starters, you can see the Crown Jewels, the palace and a legendary prison.

If you really want to double down on your tower of London experience, book a spot to participate in The Ceremony of the Keys — help the colourfully dressed Chief Warder as he carries a lantern to lock up the Tower of London with the Queen’s Keys.

This brief ceremony has been almost exactly the same for 700 years. If you want to be a part of it, book as far in advance as possible.

WHERE – St Katharine’s & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB 

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Tower Hill / Aldgate / Monument

COST – £21.45 Adults £10.75 Children (5-15)

TIP – Skip the lines and get your tickets online.

A night picture of Tower bridge with lights along it

The Tower Bridge is one of the most recognizable and beloved landmarks in London.

Both a suspension bridge and a bascule — it goes up and down — it took eight years and 432 workers per day to construct it. It’s engineering at its finest and you can take a tour to learn how it works.

Have a peek through the glass-bottomed walkways at the road 138 feet below as you head toward the Victorian Engine rooms. Then learn about the brave souls who built the bridge and the people responsible for maintaining it today.

You can take a self-guided tour or a guided tour for an additional cost.

WHERE – Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, 

NEAREST TUBE STATION – Tower Hill

COST – £9.80 Adult £4.20 Child (5-15) Click here for tickets

HOURS – 9:30 a.m. through 5:00 p.m.

UNDERGROUND | UP AT THE 02

A picture showing a tube train leaving a station on the London Underground

I had to add a trip on the London Underground to this bucket list! Using the Underground (or Tube) is an easy and fast way to get around London. It is also an excellent way to get from Heathrow into the city.

If you are planning to use the London underground system I recommend purchasing an Oyster Card (a tap on and off card which you preload with credit)

The cards can be purchased from stations, airports and some shops or you can order a visitor Oyster card prior to your arrival.

More information coming soon in my guide to using London transport!

If you want to leave London with some serious bragging rights, consider conquering the O2.

What’s that? London’s giant arena on the Greenwich Peninsula. For those who crave outdoor challenges, you can take a guided climb up, across and down the arena roof.

At the top you are treated to the most amazing views of London you thought you’d never see. It’s actually safer than you’d think. When you arrive, you get a safety briefing, a harness, footwear and other items.

The guides are experts at explaining everything. You need to be in reasonably good shape and at least 8 years old in order to complete this 90-minute challenge.

WHERE – Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – North Greenwich station

COST – £36.00 to £39.00 depending on day and time

V&A MUSEUM

A photo of a statue and a sign for the Victoria and Albert Museum in London

London is a city of museums and it can be difficult to choose which ones to visit. If you have a passion for decorative arts and design, however, the Victoria and Albert Museum should go to the top of the list.

Founded in 1852 by none other than Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, it’s the world’s largest museum of applied and decorative arts.

With 150 galleries on seven floors, their collection spans several centuries and boasts sculpture, paintings, jewellery, ceramics, glass, fashion and more.

Stop by the John Madjeski Garden while you’re there. An oval fountain bubbles away in its centre and there’s plenty of space for relaxing.

WHERE – Cromwell Rd, Knightsbridge, London SW7 2RL

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – South Kensington / Gloucester Road / Knightsbridge

COST – Free except for specific exhibitions.

TIP – If seeing all of the lovely things whets your appetite, Harrods is only a 10-minute walk away!

WESTMINSTER ABBEY | WIMBLEDON 

A picture of crowds gathered outside Westminster Abbey a London bucket list place to visit for many.

Unesco World Heritage Site and place of coronations, marriages and burials for royalty for over 1000 years Westminster Abbey is visited by thousands of worshippers and tourists every year. 

Don’t miss Poet’s Corner, the Coronation Chair, the cloisters, the royal tombs and the tomb of the unknown soldier.

WHERE – 20 Deans Yd, Westminster

COST – Reduced rate entry on Wednesday evenings.  Westminster is open for visitors from Monday to Saturday. There is a charge for entry. Tickets can be purchased from the official website and are also included in the London Pass. (Consider purchasing the London pass to save money if you are visiting multiple attractions and sights)

RECOMMENDED TOUR – Book a verger guided tour on arrival at the abbey or alternatively book a private tour. 

Tennis rackets, balls and champagne and strawberries

When someone mentions Wimbledon in the UK, they’re usually not talking about the charming town seven miles southwest of London. Rather, they’re probably referring to The Championships, which is the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world.

Tennis was born in the UK and to say it’s taken seriously at Wimbledon is an understatement. It has turned into one of the world’s premier sporting events and is steeped in tradition and exclusivity.

Attending once in a lifetime is on many people’s ultimate London bucket list. Getting tickets is a competitive affair. If you are affiliated with a tennis club, you may be at an advantage. Otherwise, you may be stuck waiting in line with the rest of the hopefuls.

WHERE – All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club

NEAREST TUBE STATION – Southfields — the stadium is a brisk 20-minute walk away, but during The Championships, several buses run from the town of Wimbledon to the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club.

COST – Varies depending on day and match.

INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS? YES – the Wimbledon Tour Experience is included in the London Pass

XMAS MARKETS

Christmas decorations in Leicester Square a London bucket list choice for many people

The festive season is one of my favourite times to visit London. The streets and shops are beautifully decorated and there are lots of winter events and things to do in London including some wonderful Christmas markets to go to.

If you are visiting London in winter you really are spoilt for choice just make sure to wrap up warmly (you can read my UK and London winter packing list here)  

WHERE – There are numerous Christmas markets across London (and the UK) with my personal favourites Winter Wonderland and the Leicester Square market. 

COST – Free 

YEOMAN WARDER  (BEEFEATERS)

A picture of a man dressed in Yeoman of the guard uniform at the Tower of London a London bucket list destination for many

The famous Beefeaters (or Yeoman Warders) can be found guarding the Tower of London. There are 37 Yeoman Warders at the Tower. To become a Beefeater a person (there is one female Yeoman Warder) must have served at least 22 years in the Armed Forces. 

TIP – Do not miss the free tour of the Tower of London led by a Beefeater. It is great fun and really informative too!

WHERE – Tower of London

RECOMMENDED TOUR – Early Access Crown Jewels with Opening Ceremony and Complete Tower of London Guided Tour

Tiger cub at London zoo

A great place to visit with children – I used to take my own daughter when she was little and she loved it.

Of course, the zoo also features in the first Harry Potter film too – in the Reptile House when Harry realises that he can talk to snakes!

The zoo is also offering overnight accommodation in beautifully decorated lodges. You also have the opportunity to take a tour of the zoo after hours and see behind the scenes!

WHERE – Located in Regent’s Park.

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS – Camden Town (16 mins walk) Chalk Farm (18 mins walk) Baker Street (21 mins walk)

LONDON-ITINERARY

Ready to plan your London itinerary?

I am sure you will have found lots of inspiration for your London travels from these top London sights and attractions. There are also a few hidden gems in there too for those of you who like to wander off the beaten path.

I will be adding to this bucket list periodically so do bookmark it for future reference.

Check out my budget travel tips for London plus my guide to 32 free things to do in London to save money during your trip.

  • When is the best time to visit London and the UK? – Month by month and seasonal guide to visiting the UK (including London)
  • Guide to visiting London in winter – Everything you need to plan your visit in the colder months of the year!
  • London Accommodation Guide – How to choose the best area of London for your stay
  • How to get around London using public transport – Complete guide to the Tube, buses, boats, trams, trains and bikes!
  • Guide to 9 of London’s mainline stations
  • Best day trips from London and the best day trips to take from London by train – ideas for days out from the capital.

Views of London.

36 Best Views of London | Viewpoints, Rooftop Bars and More Panoramic Places

Whether you’re a first-timer in the UK capital, a regular visitor or even a local resident, seeking out the best…

New Years Eve London 3

New Year’s Eve in London | The Complete Guide

Spending New Year’s Eve in London at least once in a lifetime surely belongs on every bucket list. The New…

hidden gems in London

37 Best Hidden Gems in London [with map of locations]

When you visit London for the first time, it might be all about ticking off the big London landmarks. The…

Find lots of more inspiration for your trip to London in my London Travel Guide which has lots of tips, itineraries and more to help you plan your perfect itinerary.

London Travel Guide and itinerary planner.

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Home » Blog » An A-Z of places to visit in the UK

An A-Z of places to visit in the UK

An A-Z of places to visit in the UK

It won’t be long until we’re able to travel again, so we thought we’d help you plan your next UK adventure with a little A-Z of the UK.

Whether it’s by mini-bus, or coach, we’re here to help you plan your trip and champion the most eco-friendly form of road transport.

A is for Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a city with not one but two Old Towns. There’s Old Aberdeen and Footdee. Old Aberdeen is a photographer's dream, with its cobbled streets, mature trees and 15th century fortified cathedral. Footdee - known locally as Fittie is a quirky fishing quarter at the water’s edge, with squares of tiny cottages. Whatever you’re after, Aberdeen has it all. 

While you’re there, the surrounding areas of Aberdeenshire offer the opportunity to go hiking, riding, mountain-biking, gliding, skiing, snowboarding, kayaking, surfing, kiteboarding…the list is endless!

B is for Brighton

Brighton has long been a top destination for day trippers and staycationers. And with good reason. From the Brighton Palace Pier and the Royal Pavilion, the city is also home to a diverse array of things to see and do. There are many award-winning restaurants in Brighton, from classic fish and chips, to creative vegetarian restaurants and even a zero waste restaurant.

Brighton & Hove also makes a great base for exploring the stunning Sussex countryside including the South Downs National Park, a beautiful spot for cycling, hiking and other activities.

C is for Cambridge

Home to more Nobel Prize winners than any other city, Cambridge is brimming with discovery. From galleries showcasing an impressive range of art, a buzzing theatre and performance scene, and music venues aplenty, there’s something to keep everyone entertained in Cambridge.

When things are back to normal, there’s the world-famous Folk Festival, ever-popular Beer Festival and the family-friendly Big Weekend to look forward to as well.  

D is for Derbyshire

We’ve gone quite broad with this one, and with good reason. There’s so much to see in Derbyshire , it deserves a post all on its own. But we’ll try to narrow it down…

The area is known and loved by many for its breath-taking views, bustling market towns and pretty villages , historic houses, famous attractions and hundreds of traditional events . Matlock is a hugely popular destination, with an abundance of antique shops, Riber castle in the distance and the River Derwent at your feet, it’s a relaxing town to visit.

Buxton is another favourite, offering some fantastic cafes , restaurants and places to sta y. It’s also commonly cited as the ‘gateway to the Peak District’ so is a fantastic base from which to explore the rest of the region.

E is for Edinburgh

There’s no denying Edinburgh’s beauty, and there’s certainly a reason it’s one of the top tourism destinations in the UK. Its cobbled streets, colourful character and lively surroundings make it a city worth revisiting time and time again.

Enjoy a free ghost walk and discover the history behind Edinburgh , or pay a visit to Scotland’s number one visitor attraction - Edinburgh Castle. Stroll down the Royal Mile, delve into the city’s buzzing culinary scene, or spend a leisurely day at the city’s exciting new waterfront development.

However you choose to spend your time in the Scottish capital, it’s almost certainly a given that you’ll be planning your return before you’ve even left.

F is for Falmouth

Sun, sea and sand. What more is there to love? Falmouth is fast becoming one of the South West’s leading cultural destinations, and with good reason.

Known as the ‘Spirit of the Sea’, many notable sailing achievements have taken place in its waters; including Ellen Macarthur’s 2007 achievement of becoming the fastest person in the world to sail single handedly around it. 

It’s not just the sea and sand which makes Falmouth such a great place to visit, though. Enjoy the diverse range of restaurants or head to the peaceful Queen Mary Gardens for some relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of the seafront.

G is for Gloucester

Nestled between the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean, Gloucester is an ideal location for those who love a blend of the great outdoors, and the buzz of a city, too. With history dating back to Roman times, the city’s many museums and attractions tell the story of those who have stood there before.

Enjoy the majestic and magnificent gothic cathedral which was the site of Henry III’s coronation and the final resting place of King Edwards II. The docks are great for shopping, food and drink, and sports fans will be spoilt for choice, with the local rugby and football stadiums, and the city of Cheltenham only ten minutes away by train.

H is for Harrogate

Set in the heart of North Yorkshire, Harrogate is a Victorian spa town with plenty of character and history. Whether you’re planning on spending the day, or using it as a base to explore the wider region, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

The city of Harrogate is thriving with shops and eateries, and its spa heritage can be seen at almost every turn. But the thing that arguably makes Harrogate so distinctive is the vast open space that surrounds it. ‘The Stray’ consists of 200 acres of vast open, green space and is the perfect spot to enjoy an afternoon in the sun, with friends or family.

I is for Ilkley

This unassuming picturesque town situated in the Wharfe Valley is perhaps one of Yorkshire’s best kept secrets. A former spa town, the town is now known for its fresh air, moorland and beautiful countryside. 

With the moor on its doorstep, Ilkley offers fantastic countryside walks for all abilities, and is also the perfect place to kick back and relax. Cosy up in one of the local pubs, or have a nosey around the plethora of independent shops, selling everything from gifts to vintage clothes and books. Oh, and there’s the famous Bettys Cafe and Tea Rooms to enjoy, too!

J is for John o' Groats

John o’ Groats has become a major tourist attraction in the UK, but not because of it’s amazing attractions or its incredible eateries, but because of its location. Situated in the far North of Scotland, the town lies on Great Britain’s northeastern tip, and is popular with tourists as one end of the longest distance between two inhabited British points on the mainland, with Land’s End in Cornwall lying 876 miles southwest.

It’s become extremely popular with walkers, cyclists and motorcyclists as either the starting point or the end point to one of the longest point-to-point journeys that you can take in the UK. The John o' Groats House Hotel was built on or near the site of Jan de Groot's house, and was established in 1875. It has been described by Highlands and Islands Labour MSP Rhoda Grant as "one of the UK's most famous landmarks"

K is for King’s Lynn

There’s nowhere in Norfolk quite like King’s Lynn. Once one of England’s most important ports, King’s Lynn is now a vibrant town centre full of history and culture. Its maritime past is still very much evident, and you can spend the afternoon strolling down the river between cobbled lanes.

The Saturday Market Place and Tuesday Market Place are both stunning squares and are well worth a visit. Join a guided tour to find out more about the history of the town, or head on the self-guided Hanse Trail to learn more about the town’s Hanseatic history, and trading links with Europe. King’s Lynn is a history lovers dream, but there’s definitely something for everyone in this quintessentially English town.

L is for Liverpool

Home of the Beatles, the Mersey and Jürgen Klopp’s infamous reds, it’s safe to say that Liverpool has got a lot to shout about. Aside from its friendly inhabitants; the culture, energy and atmosphere you’ll receive in Liverpool will be enough to make you want to never leave.

Take a trip to the Beatle’s Story, enjoy a walking tour of the city or kick back and relax on Albert Dock. The city has an eclectic mix of bars, restaurants and nightclubs too, so you’ll be spoilt for choice once the evening comes. The city features the areas; Georgian Quarter, Ropewalks, Chinatown, Baltic Triangle, St George's Quarter, Waterfront, Cavern Quarter and the Knowledge Quarter, and each has its own personality and character that will make you want to return to explore them all.

M is for Manchester

Known as the birthplace of the industrial revolution, Manchester has a proud history in everything from music and the arts, to sport. There’s so much to do in Manchester, you’ll struggle to narrow down your time there. Infamous for its football teams, you can take a tour of Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium. Dive into the history of football at the National Football Museum, or take in some history at John Rylands Library or the Manchester Museum.

Manchester is a foodies paradise. With everything from top class street food to high end dining, there’s something for everyone here. And it wouldn’t be a trip to Manchester without exploring its incredible music scene. Check out Band on the Wall for a music experience like no other, or head to Manchester Ritz to see who’s playing a set that night. Commonly cited as England’s second city, this place has got it all.

N is for Newcastle

If you’re after a passionate city bursting with Northern pride, then look no further. There is a wealth of things to do and see in Newcastle , and its breathtaking architecture and astounding heritage is enough to highlight why this is a city worth visiting.

History aside, Newcastle is a buzzing nightlife destination, and is a top spot with those soon to be saying ‘I do’. Experience a night out on the Toon or enjoy a slightly quieter night at the theatre or live comedy event in one of its many event venues. Head a little further afield to experience the beautiful northern coastline and rugged countryside - a diverse city and region all wrapped up in one visit.

O is for Oxford

Home to one of the oldest and celebrated university cities in the world, Oxford offers so much more than just its highly successful university. A cultural city with an extensive history, Oxford is now a great place to relax and explore. Cinema buffs will enjoy spotting the locations often used as a backdrop to many TV programmes and films, from Inspector Morse to Harry Potter.

The city’s covered market is another top pick for Oxford, with its permanent stalls and shops, it’s a photographer's dream. 

P is for Plymouth

Known as Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth is the home of breath-taking seaside views. Nestled between the South West coastline and the wild beauty of Dartmoor National Park, Plymouth is the perfect break away for nature lovers.

A short walk from the heart of the city is Plymouth Hoe which is a beautiful and broad vista that overlooks the Plymouth Sound. Home to many events throughout the year, it’s also one of the most popular spots to catch some rays. The Hoe is also home to the picture perfect red-and-white striped former lighthouse, the art-deco open-air swimming pool and Smeaton’s Tower.

However you choose to spend your time in Plymouth, you’re sure to leave feeling refreshed and revitalised.

Q is for Queensferry

Sitting on the shore, in the shadow of the Forth Bridges, South Queensferry is a picturesque town to the west of Edinburgh. Take a walk through the town’s streets and visit one of the many cafes and restaurants. 

Admire the Forth Bridges from the main street or head out on a boat tour to travel under the Forth Bridge and explore the wildlife and history of the islands. You can even land on Inchcolm, which is home to both a 12th century abbey and the fascinating remnants of Second World War defences.

R is for Ruthin

A surprising little town set in the Clwydian hills in the north east of Wales, Ruthin is layered with over 800 years of history and set in one of the most stunning landscapes in Britain. Its winding streets, and beautiful architecture may transport you back into another time.

Only 30 minutes from the coast to the north and the mountains of Snowdonia to the west, Ruthin is also the perfect base for exploring all that North Wales has to offer

S is for Southwold

Set on the Suffolk coast, many would argue that there is nowhere else quite like Southwold . Home of Adnams, take a tour of the brewery and distillery and taste their newest brews, or head to one of the town’s picturesque pubs to prop up the bar or enjoy a pint of Adnam’s finest in the beer garden.

With its sandy beach and beach hut-lined promenade, Southwold offers a relaxing environment for holidays and weekends away, as well as a thriving market town atmosphere. Take a stroll down to the harbour and get the ferry over to picturesque Walberswick or enjoy some quintessentially British fish and chips on the promenade.

T is for Trentham

Just a short journey away from Stoke-on-Trent, the Trentham Estate is home to some of the region’s best kept secrets.

Visit the award-winning, stunning Trentham Gardens, for shopping and eating out, and some peace and quiet! Indulge yourself at Trentham Shopping Village with shops, cafés, restaurants and the vast Trentham Garden Centre, it’s perfect for shopping. Families will enjoy Trentham’s Monkey Forest, and for those with energy still left to burn, there’s the region’s Treetop Adventures, too.

U is for Uttoxeter

Famed for its racecourse, there’s more to Uttoxeter than one might think. With no fewer than 65 listed buildings, this pretty East-Staffordshire town has plenty to offer. Its unspoilt cobbled centre, there’s a market in the square on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. 

Don’t leave before trying one of Farmer Ray Sargeant’s huge pork pies - they’re incredibly delicious and worth the trip to Uttoxeter alone.

For those into their horse racing, it would be criminal not to visit Uttoxeter Race Course. Set in 110 acres of Staffordshire countryside, it plays host to regularly planned musical events and family days throughout the year.

V is for Ventnor

Ventnor lies in the South of the Isle of Wight and is a traditional seaside resort. Home to one of Britain's most famous Victorian health resorts due to its unique microclimate, Ventnor has plenty of things to do both in the town and nearby.

Ventnor Beach is a great suntrap, and the sand and shingle beach is great for sunbathing and swimming. The beach huts that line the back of the beach are converted Victorian “bathing machines” and are available to hire, along with deckchairs. Visit the traditional arcade or explore the spectacular Cascade Gardens which run down the side of the cliff.

W is for Winchester

England’s ancient capital, Winchester , is a city steeped in history. Begin with the short climb up St Giles’ Hill for an overview of the city’s heritage – from the top you can trace the sweep of medieval and Georgian buildings, laid out according to the original Saxon street plan.

Explore the world-famous cathedral or take a tour of Winchester College to uncover its past and learn about its involvement in popular films today. Uncover the house where Jane Austen lived and wrote or head to one of the city’s famed local independents to grab a quick bite or gourmet meal.

X is for Exeter…

Ok we may have cheated a tad with this one, but that’s because there’s nowhere in the UK beginning with ‘X’. Exeter is as close as we could get and is a small city that packs a big punch. Vibrant and historically interesting, take a free Red Coat Guided Tour or uncover the city’s unique underground passages.

Explore the magnificent cathedral, or take a stroll down to the beautiful Quayside. Head to the West Quarter or the cobbled Gandy Street to discover a great mix of independent shops and boutiques, cafes and bars. Exeter is also home to the award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum where visitors can explore the city’s 2,000-year history under one roof!

Y is for York

Placed halfway between London and Edinburgh, York is a perfect central stop if you’re planning a mega UK tour. A city with Roman roots and a Viking past, ancient walls surround contemporary independent shops and vibrant eateries.

There are more attractions per square mile than any other destination in the UK, world-class museums you can explore, and a thriving cultural scene. From walking tours to picturesque river cruises, brewery tours to afternoon teas, luxurious spa treatments to eerie ghost walks, there’s something for everyone in York.

Z is for Zelah, Zennor or Zouch?

There are few places in the UK that begin with the letter ‘Z’, and certainly none with reason for a touristic visit. If you’re looking for somewhere to truly unwind, and where there are no distractions to speak of, Zelah, Zennor or Zouch might just do the trick!

So, that’s it! A snapshot of the UK summarised within the constraints of the alphabet. If you do choose to travel over the next few months, make sure you’re travelling safely and within the restrictions.

How we can help!

Travelling by coach is a great, cost-effective and environmentally friendly way of travelling to the UK’s must-see destinations. Whether you’re enjoying a family trip or a holiday with friends. At Coach Hire Comparison, we will put you in direct contact with coach hire suppliers and minibus hire suppliers . Whether you require an 8-seater minibus or 70-seater coach, we will find the best suppliers who can fulfil all your needs and requirements for the best price.

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August 26, 2021

Guide London A – Z: Letter J London Landmarks And Tourist Attractions

How many London landmarks and tourist attractions can you name that start with the Letter J? Blue Badge Tourist Guide Mark King continues our Guide London A-Z video series and provides insights on the historical events, famous and not-so-famous landmarks in London starting with the Letter J.

London landmarks and tourist attractions that begin with the Letter J

This is the Guide London A-Z.  I am Mark King, a London Blue Badge Tourist Guide and today let’s look at the letter ‘J’.

Dr. Samuel Johnson’s House

‘J’ is for Dr. Samuel Johnson, the 18th-century dictionary-compiler, writer, and wit, who famously said: “Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.”

To discover more about Dr. Johnson’s life and times, head to one of his former homes in a little cobbled square tucked away off Fleet Street. In the square, you’ll also find a charming sculpture of his beloved pet cat, Hodge enjoying a tasty oyster.

Dr Samuel Johnson's House in London. Photo Credit: © Mark King.

Jewish London – Bevis Marks Synagogue

Over its 2000-year existence, London has become home to an impressively diverse population. One of the longest-established is its Jewish community, our next ‘J’.

Nestling among modern skyscrapers, the three-hundred-year-old Bevis Marks synagogue’s historic interior hosts traditional services that are still lit in winter by flickering candlelight. First invited over in the 11th century from his lands in Normandy by the all-conquering new English King William I, Jewish merchants and financiers played an important role in England until 1290 and then again from the mid-17th century.

Jewish London - Bevis Marks Synagogue. Photo Credit: © Mark King.

Jewish Museum

With displays about the history and traditions of British Jews, the Jewish Museum celebrates the lives of individuals making their mark in fields as varied as medicine, broadcasting, sport, and popular music. It’s well worth a visit.

The Jewish Museum London - Judaica Gallery. Photo Credit: ©Benedict Johnson.

Jamme Masjid

Nowhere else is there a building like our next ‘J’ – the Jamme Masjid. Near to London’s former docks along the river Thames, the East End has a unique heritage as a social melting pot that bears witness to several transformational waves of immigration. This building started out in the 1740s as a French Protestant church, then became a Jewish synagogue in the 19th century, and since the 1970s has been a Muslim house of prayer. The Jamme Masjid epitomises vibrant multicultural London, helping explain its development into the global cultural and commercial powerhouse we see today.

Brick Lane Jamme Masjid. Photo Credit: © Lemur12 via Wikimedia Commons.

Jellied Eels

The natural bounty of the Thames and the seas around Britain has kept Londoners fed. ‘J’ is for jellied eels that once provided a popular meal for ordinary Cockney families.

Eels are gutted and chopped, then boiled in a broth with herbs and cooled in their own gelatin. Give them a try – perhaps in a traditional pie-and-mash shop or look out for a jar on sale in specialist fish shops, delis, or online. By the way, connoisseurs say that a dash of vinegar and white pepper elevates the flavours.

London’s food and drink scene still offer a tempting variety of tasty delights, as befits the city that claims to have created the combination of fish and chips celebrated as Britain’s national dish.

Bowl of jellied eels. Photo Credit: © Footballbooks via Wikimedia Commons.

St James’s Palace

At the top end of the pecking order, hunting deer was a favourite pastime of royalty. King Henry VIII acquired land in Westminster that included a hospital dedicated to St James, our next ‘J’. Over the following five centuries Henry’s red-brick Tudor hunting lodge in his private deer park evolved into St James’s Palace. It was London’s principal royal residence for many years and even now retains its status as the official base of the royal court. The palace’s courtyard provides the backdrop for one element of the ever-popular Changing the Guard ceremony.

St James's Palace in London. Photo Credit: © Mark King.

St James’s Park

On the south side of the palace, St James’s Park extends towards the current principal royal residence – Buckingham Palace. Its 57 acres include a lake, trees, lawns, flowerbeds, and waterfowl that make this one of central London’s most enjoyable public parks. One of the more unexpected sights is a flock of pelicans first established 350 years ago!

On the north side of St James’s Palace, look out this gold-coloured coat of arms above the entrance to wine and spirit merchant, Justerini & Brooks. Called a ‘Royal Warrant’, it is displayed with understandable, if understated pride. This is because it shows that they are a trusted supplier to one of the three senior royal households – HM the Queen (as shown here), or the Prince of Wales, or, until his death in 2021, the Duke of Edinburgh. More than 800 businesses offering various products or services hold a Royal Warrant and many are based in the district close to the palaces.

Yes, as Dr. Johnson said, …’ there is in London all that life can afford.’ These are just some of the tourist attractions that begin with the letter ‘J’.

Gold-coloured coat of arms above the entrance to wine and spirit merchant, Justerini & Brooks. Photo Credit: © Mark King.

My name is Mark King. Check out my profile at our website guidelondon.org.uk and please subscribe to our YouTube channel  and join us as we explore the A-Z of Guide London.

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PUBLISHED 2016 IN UK AND N AMERICA: ‘The Blue Badge Guide’s London Quiz Book’. Available in good bookshops in paperback, also on Amazon and as an e-book. 

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Treacherous UK Tourist Attractions For Thrill Seekers

Posted: March 12, 2024 | Last updated: March 12, 2024

The UK might not have much harmful wildlife or many extreme landscapes, but all manner of dangers still lurk amid its green and pleasant land. From mist-covered moors and hazardous high peaks to crumbling clifftops and polluted seawater, these are the most dangerous tourist attractions in the United Kingdom.

Danger zones

<p>At 4,413 feet (1,345m) above sea level, Ben Nevis is the tallest peak in the British Isles, and its soaring views are just one of the reasons 150,000 visitors come to conquer its slopes every year. It can be scaled via a few different tracks, the most popular (and easiest) of which is called the Mountain Track. The Carn Mor Dearg Arete (CMD for short) is a longer and more demanding route that traverses the notorious north face, while the Ledge Route is a challenging and occasionally confusing one-way ascent. For all these routes hillwalking experience, navigation skills, proper equipment and a high level of fitness are musts.</p>

Ben Nevis, Highland, Scotland

At 4,413 feet (1,345m) above sea level, Ben Nevis is the tallest peak in the British Isles, and its soaring views are just one of the reasons 150,000 visitors come to conquer its slopes every year. It can be scaled via a few different tracks, the most popular (and easiest) of which is called the Mountain Track. The Carn Mor Dearg Arete (CMD for short) is a longer and more demanding route that traverses the notorious north face, while the Ledge Route is a challenging and occasionally confusing one-way ascent. For all these routes hillwalking experience, navigation skills, proper equipment and a high level of fitness are musts.

<p>Unfortunately, natural environments like this can be fraught with danger no matter how much you prepare. According to the peak’s visitor center, more than 100 deaths have been recorded on Ben Nevis since 1849, with seven fatalities in 2017 – the worst year in recent history. Changeable and unpredictable weather conditions can be deadly at high altitude, causing people to lose their way and end up on riskier, more slippery parts of the peak. Avalanches are also a cause of concern in winter, along with dangerously high winds. </p>

Unfortunately, natural environments like this can be fraught with danger no matter how much you prepare. According to the peak’s visitor center, more than 100 deaths have been recorded on Ben Nevis since 1849, with seven fatalities in 2017 – the worst year in recent history. Changeable and unpredictable weather conditions can be deadly at high altitude, causing people to lose their way and end up on riskier, more slippery parts of the peak. Avalanches are also a cause of concern in winter, along with dangerously high winds. 

<p>Mirror-like lakes and mighty peaks topped with breathtaking paths make the Lake District National Park a rambler's paradise. It's also popular with watersports enthusiasts, cavers and climbers – all activities that come with their own possible perils. In 2022, the Lake District Mountain Rescue Teams attended more than 600 rescues – that's almost two a day. Recent tragedies include a paddleboarder drowning on Ullswater and a hill climber falling to his death on Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain. Another accident hotspot is the Great End route up the Scafell Massif, where 71 incidents and 13 fatalities were recorded between 1949 and 2018. </p>

The Lake District National Park, Cumbria, England

Mirror-like lakes and mighty peaks topped with breathtaking paths make the Lake District National Park a rambler's paradise. It's also popular with watersports enthusiasts, cavers and climbers – all activities that come with their own possible perils. In 2022, the Lake District Mountain Rescue Teams attended more than 600 rescues – that's almost two a day. Recent tragedies include a paddleboarder drowning on Ullswater and a hill climber falling to his death on Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain. Another accident hotspot is the Great End route up the Scafell Massif, where 71 incidents and 13 fatalities were recorded between 1949 and 2018. 

<p>The park's water can be dangerous in a number of ways. First, the deceptively placid lakes can be extremely deep and cold, with a risk of cold water shock. Second, the Lake District is the wettest area in the UK, and slippery rocks and hazardous conditions can easily cause falls. Third, in winter the area's mountain roads and ridges are often covered with treacherous snow and ice. Perhaps the park's most perilous feature is Helvellyn, England's third highest peak, which plays host to the notorious Striding Edge (pictured), an infamous scramble that's exposed on both sides and has claimed many lives down the years.</p>

The park's water can be dangerous in a number of ways. First, the deceptively placid lakes can be extremely deep and cold, with a risk of cold water shock. Second, the Lake District is the wettest area in the UK, and slippery rocks and hazardous conditions can easily cause falls. Third, in winter the area's mountain roads and ridges are often covered with treacherous snow and ice. Perhaps the park's most perilous feature is Helvellyn, England's third highest peak, which plays host to the notorious Striding Edge (pictured), an infamous scramble that's exposed on both sides and has claimed many lives down the years.

<p>The windswept beauty of County Antrim’s basalt coastline is delightfully soul-stirring and popular highlights include the geological wonders of the Giant’s Causeway, the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the Gobbins, a cliffside path above turbulent seas that dates back to the Edwardian era. Created by volcanic activity long ago, these sheer and rugged rock faces are perpetually lashed by huge Atlantic waves. It's certainly spectacular, but this dramatic coastline is rife with dangers including unstable rocks and unfenced drops.</p>  <p><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/loveexploringUK?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=front">Love this? Follow us on Facebook for travel inspiration and more</a></strong></p>

The cliffs of County Antrim, Northern Ireland

The windswept beauty of County Antrim’s basalt coastline is delightfully soul-stirring and popular highlights include the geological wonders of the Giant’s Causeway, the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the Gobbins, a cliffside path above turbulent seas that dates back to the Edwardian era. Created by volcanic activity long ago, these sheer and rugged rock faces are perpetually lashed by huge Atlantic waves. It's certainly spectacular, but this dramatic coastline is rife with dangers including unstable rocks and unfenced drops.

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<p>Coastal paths wind out around rocky headlands and allow walkers right up to the edge of the cliffs to spot wildlife and admire the ocean's power. But high winds and slippery conditions can make these views perilous and fatal slips have occurred – including the death of a seven-year-old boy in 2014. There have also been tragic accidents as a result of tombstoning – an extreme sport in which people jump from high cliffs into the sea. A notorious spot for shipwrecks, the craggy coastline is strewn with historic wreckage, including La Girona, a vessel from the Spanish Armada which was dashed on the rocks near Dunluce in 1588.</p>

Coastal paths wind out around rocky headlands and allow walkers right up to the edge of the cliffs to spot wildlife and admire the ocean's power. But high winds and slippery conditions can make these views perilous and fatal slips have occurred – including the death of a seven-year-old boy in 2014. There have also been tragic accidents as a result of tombstoning – an extreme sport in which people jump from high cliffs into the sea. A notorious spot for shipwrecks, the craggy coastline is strewn with historic wreckage, including La Girona, a vessel from the Spanish Armada which was dashed on the rocks near Dunluce in 1588.

<p>Golden coves, geological marvels and gorgeous seaside towns make the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast an incredible place to visit. But this dynamic coastal landscape is also extremely unstable and fragile, and mudslides and rock falls can make coastal walks very dangerous. Swanage, West Bay and Burton Bradstock have all seen large falls in recent years, and in 2012 a tourist at Burton Bradstock was crushed to death by a landslip. This year, a huge fall occurred at Stonebarrow Beach near Charmouth, blocking the beach off completely.</p>

Jurassic Coast, Dorset and Devon, England

Golden coves, geological marvels and gorgeous seaside towns make the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast an incredible place to visit. But this dynamic coastal landscape is also extremely unstable and fragile, and mudslides and rock falls can make coastal walks very dangerous. Swanage, West Bay and Burton Bradstock have all seen large falls in recent years, and in 2012 a tourist at Burton Bradstock was crushed to death by a landslip. This year, a huge fall occurred at Stonebarrow Beach near Charmouth, blocking the beach off completely.

<p>In 2021, the biggest rockfall in 60 years took place between Seatown (pictured) and Eype Beach. Signs urge walkers to stay away from the edge of the crumbling coastline and beach-goers to avoid sitting near the base of cliffs. The falls are unpredictable but storms, heavy rainfall and rough seas all increase risk. Unfortunately, directly after a storm is also peak time for fossil collectors to pick through the area's famous sediments, as storms can expose new fossils along the shoreline. Tombstoning off Dorset's famous rock arch Durdle Door has also resulted in tragedy, as has people attempting to climb parts of the cliffs.</p>

In 2021, the biggest rockfall in 60 years took place between Seatown (pictured) and Eype Beach. Signs urge walkers to stay away from the edge of the crumbling coastline and beach-goers to avoid sitting near the base of cliffs. The falls are unpredictable but storms, heavy rainfall and rough seas all increase risk. Unfortunately, directly after a storm is also peak time for fossil collectors to pick through the area's famous sediments, as storms can expose new fossils along the shoreline. Tombstoning off Dorset's famous rock arch Durdle Door has also resulted in tragedy, as has people attempting to climb parts of the cliffs.

<p>Beautiful but deadly, Morecambe Bay is a broad, shallow estuary that stretches from the southwest coast of Cumbria to Fleetwood in Lancashire. Several rivers drain into it: the Leven, Kent, Keer, Lune and Wyre. It’s the largest expanse of intertidal mudflats and sand in the UK, and it's the second largest bay after the Wash in East Anglia. An increasingly notorious spot, dangers include quicksand, deep gullies and shifting channels along with notoriously rapid and fast-rising tides that race in and catch walkers unawares.</p>

Morecambe Bay, Cumbria and Lancashire, England

Beautiful but deadly, Morecambe Bay is a broad, shallow estuary that stretches from the southwest coast of Cumbria to Fleetwood in Lancashire. Several rivers drain into it: the Leven, Kent, Keer, Lune and Wyre. It’s the largest expanse of intertidal mudflats and sand in the UK, and it's the second largest bay after the Wash in East Anglia. An increasingly notorious spot, dangers include quicksand, deep gullies and shifting channels along with notoriously rapid and fast-rising tides that race in and catch walkers unawares.

<p>The unpredictable terrain has led to many deaths, including the tragic drowning of 23 Chinese immigrants in 2004 who were caught by the sweeping tide when picking cockles, known to this day as the Morecambe Bay cockling disaster. At Arnside on the northeast side of the bay a siren is sounded twice before each daylight high tide to warn people of the incoming water, which is locally said to "race in faster than a horse". Despite all the warnings, however, many people still fall foul of the unpredictable tides when walking around Morecambe Bay.</p>  <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/159399/30-things-you-probably-didnt-know-about-the-uk?page=1">Discover 30 things you never knew about the UK</a></strong></p>

The unpredictable terrain has led to many deaths, including the tragic drowning of 23 Chinese immigrants in 2004 who were caught by the sweeping tide when picking cockles, known to this day as the Morecambe Bay cockling disaster. At Arnside on the northeast side of the bay a siren is sounded twice before each daylight high tide to warn people of the incoming water, which is locally said to "race in faster than a horse". Despite all the warnings, however, many people still fall foul of the unpredictable tides when walking around Morecambe Bay.

Discover 30 things you never knew about the UK

<p>The powerful tides around Ramsey Sound are infamous too. Throw some hazardous rocks into the mix and this deep, narrow channel off the Pembrokeshire coast is not a good spot for a relaxing paddle. However, it is a popular place for white-water kayaking due to the hair-raising whirlpools and eddies, and is popular with boat trips thanks to top-notch wildlife-watching opportunities. Visitors can see seals, harbor porpoises, dolphins, choughs and peregrine falcons.</p>

Ramsey Sound, Pembrokeshire, Wales

The powerful tides around Ramsey Sound are infamous too. Throw some hazardous rocks into the mix and this deep, narrow channel off the Pembrokeshire coast is not a good spot for a relaxing paddle. However, it is a popular place for white-water kayaking due to the hair-raising whirlpools and eddies, and is popular with boat trips thanks to top-notch wildlife-watching opportunities. Visitors can see seals, harbor porpoises, dolphins, choughs and peregrine falcons.

<p>Tourist boats go through the sound and around Ramsey Island, a RSPB nature reserve. It's home to a reef of spiky rocks which frothing waves crash through at terrifying speeds. The tides can reach speeds of up to eight knots creating thrilling rapids that challenge even the most fearless kayakers. The biggest tides occur just after full and new moons. History tells of numerous shipwrecks in these treacherous waters too, including one in 1910 when a lifeboat ran into the ragged rocks when returning to shore following a rescue.</p>

Tourist boats go through the sound and around Ramsey Island, a RSPB nature reserve. It's home to a reef of spiky rocks which frothing waves crash through at terrifying speeds. The tides can reach speeds of up to eight knots creating thrilling rapids that challenge even the most fearless kayakers. The biggest tides occur just after full and new moons. History tells of numerous shipwrecks in these treacherous waters too, including one in 1910 when a lifeboat ran into the ragged rocks when returning to shore following a rescue.

<p>A long stretch of golden sand backed by high dunes, Camber Sands is an alluring location for strolling, sandcastle building and swimming on the Sussex coastline. The exposed beach is often windy too, which makes the wide bay one of England’s most popular kitesurfing locations. However, the seven-mile (11km) beach is also one of the most hazardous stretches of the UK coastline, known for its riptides, fast incoming tides and sandbars that can quickly leave people stranded far from shore.</p>

Camber Sands, East Sussex, England

A long stretch of golden sand backed by high dunes, Camber Sands is an alluring location for strolling, sandcastle building and swimming on the Sussex coastline. The exposed beach is often windy too, which makes the wide bay one of England’s most popular kitesurfing locations. However, the seven-mile (11km) beach is also one of the most hazardous stretches of the UK coastline, known for its riptides, fast incoming tides and sandbars that can quickly leave people stranded far from shore.

<p>Seven people drowned at the popular beach in 2013, five on the same day. Following the tragic events of that summer, lifeguards now operate on Camber Sands between April and October, and more visible safety signs warn of the dangerous currents and riptides. Swimmers are also warned not to swim in the harbor entrance, due to strong currents and boat traffic. There is also a separate watersports zone to avoid swimmers and kitesurfers colliding, although a kitesurfer died in 2019 after being blown into a concrete wall.</p>

Seven people drowned at the popular beach in 2013, five on the same day. Following the tragic events of that summer, lifeguards now operate on Camber Sands between April and October, and more visible safety signs warn of the dangerous currents and riptides. Swimmers are also warned not to swim in the harbor entrance, due to strong currents and boat traffic. There is also a separate watersports zone to avoid swimmers and kitesurfers colliding, although a kitesurfer died in 2019 after being blown into a concrete wall.

<p>The Kentish coast is awash with gorgeous beaches, from kitsch bucket-and-spade resorts to dramatic cliff-backed bays and atmospheric stretches of shingle. One spot you might not want to take a dip in, though, is St Mary’s Bay. <a href="https://environment.data.gov.uk/bwq/profiles/">The Environment Agency has issued a 'do not swim' alert</a> at the sand and shingle beach in Hythe Bay for all of 2023, following the detection of unsafe levels of bacteria in the water.</p>

St Mary’s Bay, Kent, England

The Kentish coast is awash with gorgeous beaches, from kitsch bucket-and-spade resorts to dramatic cliff-backed bays and atmospheric stretches of shingle. One spot you might not want to take a dip in, though, is St Mary’s Bay. The Environment Agency has issued a 'do not swim' alert  at the sand and shingle beach in Hythe Bay for all of 2023, following the detection of unsafe levels of bacteria in the water.

<p>The advice is based on samples taken from the bay between 2018 and 2022 (the bay received a 'poor' water quality rating in 2022 following a 'sufficient' one in 2021). Fecal matter was detected in the water, which may be linked to pollution from sewer overflows in the area. Signs have now been erected on the beach to warn against swimming. The popular beaches at Bognor Regis and Scarborough's South Bay have also been issued with 'do not swim' alerts this year, following a similar annual classification.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/75464/the-worlds-most-dangerous-beaches?page=1"><strong>These are the world's most dangerous beaches</strong></a></p>

The advice is based on samples taken from the bay between 2018 and 2022 (the bay received a 'poor' water quality rating in 2022 following a 'sufficient' one in 2021). Fecal matter was detected in the water, which may be linked to pollution from sewer overflows in the area. Signs have now been erected on the beach to warn against swimming. The popular beaches at Bognor Regis and Scarborough's South Bay have also been issued with 'do not swim' alerts this year, following a similar annual classification.

<p>It can't quite match the scale and drama of the Alps, but Mount Snowdon or Yr Wyddfa in North Wales is a magnetic mountain to climb. It's also peppered with perils, especially for ill-equipped tourists who frequently ascend its slopes with little or no preparation. Britain's busiest mountain, more than half a million people climb Yr Wyddfa every year, and the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team fields more than 200 call-outs annually. Snowdon claims multiple lives each year, mostly in winter. There are six routes to the summit, some of which traverse accident blackspots like the East Ridge, Trinity Face and Crib Goch, a deadly ridge which should be attempted by skilled mountain walkers only.</p>

Mount Snowdon, Gwynedd, Wales

It can't quite match the scale and drama of the Alps, but Mount Snowdon or Yr Wyddfa in North Wales is a magnetic mountain to climb. It's also peppered with perils, especially for ill-equipped tourists who frequently ascend its slopes with little or no preparation. Britain's busiest mountain, more than half a million people climb Yr Wyddfa every year, and the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team fields more than 200 call-outs annually. Snowdon claims multiple lives each year, mostly in winter. There are six routes to the summit, some of which traverse accident blackspots like the East Ridge, Trinity Face and Crib Goch, a deadly ridge which should be attempted by skilled mountain walkers only.

<p>Aside from poor preparation, the main reasons climbs go wrong on the 3,560-foot (1,085m) mountain are the weather, poor ground conditions that can lead to slips and falls, and walkers getting lost. As with all mountains, conditions are unpredictable, with snow common in winter and dense hill fog that can disorientate walkers. Lightning is another rarely considered hazard and two hikers were struck at the summit in 2021. An increase in visitor numbers has also resulted in lines to reach the summit and the potentially fatal erosion of footpaths.</p>

Aside from poor preparation, the main reasons climbs go wrong on the 3,560-foot (1,085m) mountain are the weather, poor ground conditions that can lead to slips and falls, and walkers getting lost. As with all mountains, conditions are unpredictable, with snow common in winter and dense hill fog that can disorientate walkers. Lightning is another rarely considered hazard and two hikers were struck at the summit in 2021. An increase in visitor numbers has also resulted in lines to reach the summit and the potentially fatal erosion of footpaths.

<p>Tumbling through an ancient oak forest in the grounds of Bolton Abbey in the bucolic Yorkshire Dales, the Strid is a deceptively picturesque section of the River Wharfe that's been nicknamed 'the stream that swallows people' and 'England's killer creek'. It's a series of waterfalls and rapids that gush through the rocks at great speed and etymologists will be well aware of the channel's dangers, as its name is probably a corruption of the Anglo-Saxon word 'stryth', which means turmoil or tumult. The highly dangerous waterway has claimed numerous lives over the years, including those of a honeymooning couple in 1998.</p>

The Strid, North Yorkshire, England

Tumbling through an ancient oak forest in the grounds of Bolton Abbey in the bucolic Yorkshire Dales, the Strid is a deceptively picturesque section of the River Wharfe that's been nicknamed 'the stream that swallows people' and 'England's killer creek'. It's a series of waterfalls and rapids that gush through the rocks at great speed and etymologists will be well aware of the channel's dangers, as its name is probably a corruption of the Anglo-Saxon word 'stryth', which means turmoil or tumult. The highly dangerous waterway has claimed numerous lives over the years, including those of a honeymooning couple in 1998.

<p>A pinch point in the river, the Strid's churning water is dangerously cold and fast-flowing with strong undercurrents, while its course is pocked with rocky outcrops and underwater caves. The Strid's narrow channel is also deceptively deep, even more so after heavy rain when water levels have been known to rise five feet (1.5m) in less than a minute. An information board at the site says that the Strid is over 30 feet (9m) deep or "more than two double-decker buses on top of each other", and even standing on the mossy rocks that line its banks carries danger as it’s all too easy to slip in.</p>

A pinch point in the river, the Strid's churning water is dangerously cold and fast-flowing with strong undercurrents, while its course is pocked with rocky outcrops and underwater caves. The Strid's narrow channel is also deceptively deep, even more so after heavy rain when water levels have been known to rise five feet (1.5m) in less than a minute. An information board at the site says that the Strid is over 30 feet (9m) deep or "more than two double-decker buses on top of each other", and even standing on the mossy rocks that line its banks carries danger as it’s all too easy to slip in.

<p>On a hot and muggy day there are few things more tempting than leaping into a cool body of water. But the urge to jump into the freezing waters of Prestonhill Quarry in Inverkeithing, Fife, has led to several tragedies. Nicknamed 'death trap quarry' by the media, the former dolerite quarry has claimed four lives in the last 50 years – three of them in the last 10. A 12-year-old boy fell to his death there in 1973, while two 18-year-old boys drowned there in 2014 and 2015 respectively. In 2017, a 36-year-old teacher became the quarry's fourth victim after failing to resurface following a night-time scuba dive.</p>

Prestonhill Quarry, Fife, Scotland

On a hot and muggy day there are few things more tempting than leaping into a cool body of water. But the urge to jump into the freezing waters of Prestonhill Quarry in Inverkeithing, Fife, has led to several tragedies. Nicknamed 'death trap quarry' by the media, the former dolerite quarry has claimed four lives in the last 50 years – three of them in the last 10. A 12-year-old boy fell to his death there in 1973, while two 18-year-old boys drowned there in 2014 and 2015 respectively. In 2017, a 36-year-old teacher became the quarry's fourth victim after failing to resurface following a night-time scuba dive.

<p>Despite the deaths, warning signs and security fences, some people still access the site to swim. The heat waves of recent summers have drawn youths to tombstone into the notorious quarry’s beguiling waters, much to the dismay of locals. There are plans for a major overhaul of the area to create a mixed-use development that will include houses, vacation homes and restaurants. If approved, the plans will see the contentious quarry finally filled in and its dangerous rock faces removed.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/146195/the-most-amazing-castles-in-scotland-you-can-actually-visit?page=1"><strong>Check out these amazing Scottish castles you can actually visit</strong></a></p>

Despite the deaths, warning signs and security fences, some people still access the site to swim. The heat waves of recent summers have drawn youths to tombstone into the notorious quarry’s beguiling waters, much to the dismay of locals. There are plans for a major overhaul of the area to create a mixed-use development that will include houses, vacation homes and restaurants. If approved, the plans will see the contentious quarry finally filled in and its dangerous rock faces removed.

Check out these amazing Scottish castles you can actually visit

<p>A world-famous beauty spot, Beachy Head's bone-white cliffs and red-and-white-striped lighthouse are extremely popular with walkers and sightseers, especially in summer. Towering 530 feet (161m) above the sea, the chalk sea cliffs are the highest in Britain, and have unfortunately developed a sad reputation as a suicide spot. As well as the obvious peril of standing too close to the edge, these crumbly cliffs are also prone to chalk falls, which can endanger people both on the cliffs and below them. These falls occur fairly regularly all along the cliffs, which stretch from Eastbourne past Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters, all the way to Seaford Head.</p>

Beachy Head, East Sussex, England

A world-famous beauty spot, Beachy Head's bone-white cliffs and red-and-white-striped lighthouse are extremely popular with walkers and sightseers, especially in summer. Towering 530 feet (161m) above the sea, the chalk sea cliffs are the highest in Britain, and have unfortunately developed a sad reputation as a suicide spot. As well as the obvious peril of standing too close to the edge, these crumbly cliffs are also prone to chalk falls, which can endanger people both on the cliffs and below them. These falls occur fairly regularly all along the cliffs, which stretch from Eastbourne past Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters, all the way to Seaford Head.

<p>Foreboding cracks have appeared near the edge of the cliffs in some places, so some sections have been roped off. Despite warnings, visitors often pose for dangerous cliff-edge photographs – and multiple people have died in recent years while attempting to capture dramatic shots. Base jumpers have also been seriously injured after leaping from the cliffs. Down on the beach, as well as falling chalk there's a risk of being stranded by fast incoming tides. The seas off Beachy Head are famously windy and unpredictable, and it was the area's dreadful shipwreck record that led to the erection of its famous lighthouse below the cliffs in 1902.</p>

Foreboding cracks have appeared near the edge of the cliffs in some places, so some sections have been roped off. Despite warnings, visitors often pose for dangerous cliff-edge photographs – and multiple people have died in recent years while attempting to capture dramatic shots. Base jumpers have also been seriously injured after leaping from the cliffs. Down on the beach, as well as falling chalk there's a risk of being stranded by fast incoming tides. The seas off Beachy Head are famously windy and unpredictable, and it was the area's dreadful shipwreck record that led to the erection of its famous lighthouse below the cliffs in 1902.

<p>Vast sweeps of high moorland and ancient woodland, jagged granite tors, mysterious stone circles and wide open skies: Dartmoor is a place of brooding beauty and one of the UK’s greatest wildernesses. It’s also steeped in local folklore that adds more than a whiff of mystery to its haunting landscape. Notorious for bogs and mires, the landscape can be fraught with real danger if you don’t have your wits about you. Hikers can be caught out by the moor's changeable weather, and thick mist can descend quickly and mask important navigational landmarks.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/89068/the-most-mysterious-places-on-earth?page=1"><strong>These are the world's most mysterious places</strong></a></p>

Dartmoor National Park, Devon, England

Vast sweeps of high moorland and ancient woodland, jagged granite tors, mysterious stone circles and wide open skies: Dartmoor is a place of brooding beauty and one of the UK’s greatest wildernesses. It’s also steeped in local folklore that adds more than a whiff of mystery to its haunting landscape. Notorious for bogs and mires, the landscape can be fraught with real danger if you don’t have your wits about you. Hikers can be caught out by the moor's changeable weather, and thick mist can descend quickly and mask important navigational landmarks.

<p>The tors are a magnet for climbers but have previously caused fatalities, while the deep, cold and potentially dangerous waters of Dartmoor's quarries and rivers are popular with wild swimmers. The moorland livestock can be unpredictable, especially around dogs, and the appearance of Dartmoor hill ponies through the mist on the park's narrow and twisting roads can startle and distract drivers. If you’re exploring north Dartmoor, you’d be advised to check firing times as some areas are used for training by the Ministry of Defence. Both the north and south moors were used as training grounds during the Second World War, so there is also a small risk of encountering unexploded ordnance.</p>

The tors are a magnet for climbers but have previously caused fatalities, while the deep, cold and potentially dangerous waters of Dartmoor's quarries and rivers are popular with wild swimmers. The moorland livestock can be unpredictable, especially around dogs, and the appearance of Dartmoor hill ponies through the mist on the park's narrow and twisting roads can startle and distract drivers. If you’re exploring north Dartmoor, you’d be advised to check firing times as some areas are used for training by the Ministry of Defence. Both the north and south moors were used as training grounds during the Second World War, so there is also a small risk of encountering unexploded ordnance.

<p>More windswept moors, rugged crags and mysterious tors beckon in the Peak District. The national park is a dream for outdoorsy types, and it boasts some seriously scenic roads for soaking up the sumptuous scenery. The so-called Cat and Fiddle Road is one of them. The seven-mile (12km) stretch, named after the inn which sits at its summit, sweeps between Buxton and Macclesfield and promises drivers hairpin bends, steep gradients and wide-open views of the undulating landscape. It’s particularly popular with motorcyclists, but it's also often called the most dangerous road in Britain.</p>

The Cat and Fiddle Road, Derbyshire, England

More windswept moors, rugged crags and mysterious tors beckon in the Peak District. The national park is a dream for outdoorsy types, and it boasts some seriously scenic roads for soaking up the sumptuous scenery. The so-called Cat and Fiddle Road is one of them. The seven-mile (12km) stretch, named after the inn which sits at its summit, sweeps between Buxton and Macclesfield and promises drivers hairpin bends, steep gradients and wide-open views of the undulating landscape. It’s particularly popular with motorcyclists, but it's also often called the most dangerous road in Britain.

<p>Sadly, the snaking route has claimed many lives. At its peak in the late-noughties there were around 10 fatal accidents every year on the road, which has blind bends, steep drops and dry stone walls along much of its length. Motorcyclists make up around 70% of the road's victims, and winter makes it even more perilous, with freezing temperatures, reduced visibility and an increased risk of skidding. A strict speed limit of 50 miles per hour (80km/h) operates on the Cat and Fiddle, and speed cameras were installed along its length in 2010 in an attempt to slow down thrill-seekers. Motorcycle-friendly crash barriers have also been installed at particularly lethal sections.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/63872/the-worlds-most-dangerous-tourist-attractions?page=1"><strong>Now learn about the most dangerous tourist attractions in the world</strong></a></p>

Sadly, the snaking route has claimed many lives. At its peak in the late-noughties there were around 10 fatal accidents every year on the road, which has blind bends, steep drops and dry stone walls along much of its length. Motorcyclists make up around 70% of the road's victims, and winter makes it even more perilous, with freezing temperatures, reduced visibility and an increased risk of skidding. A strict speed limit of 50 miles per hour (80km/h) operates on the Cat and Fiddle, and speed cameras were installed along its length in 2010 in an attempt to slow down thrill-seekers. Motorcycle-friendly crash barriers have also been installed at particularly lethal sections.

Now learn about the most dangerous tourist attractions in the world

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New €7million tourist attraction with amazing views opens in Europe’s cheapest city – and it’s free to use

  • Ryan Gray , Travel Reporter
  • Published : 14:36, 15 Mar 2024
  • Updated : 14:36, 15 Mar 2024
  • Published : Invalid Date,

A TOURIST attraction in a popular European capital has opened after years spent constructing it.

The €7million (£5.9m) project was finally completed in Lisbon earlier this week, providing tourists and locals with an exciting new way to take in some of the city's best views.

The funicular overlooks the city of Lisbon and has free rides

The Graça Funicular will connect the Graça neighbourhood in the Portuguese capital to the Moorish Quarter, Mouraria.

This is a multicultural neighbourhood where Asian, African, and Arabic shops and restaurants surround the famous Martim Moniz square.

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The funicular was opened on Tuesday, March 12, some 15 years after construction started.

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It will provide a route from Rua dos Lagares, in Mouraria, to the Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen Viewpoint, in front of the Graça church.

The Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas, officially unveiled the funicular, describing it as "unique".

He told Portugal News : “We managed to untie this knot, untie the knot of a problem that Lisbon residents have been waiting for so long for.

"Now we will have it here, free of charge, for our Lisbon residents to go up between Mouraria and Graça. It's a unique moment."

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The funicular brings back something that previously existed in the city 120 years ago, when there was an elevator in the area between Graça and Rua da Palma.

The single route has only two stopping points and can carry a maximum capacity of 14 people per trip.

Each journey takes around a minute and a half.

According to Mayor Moedas, trips will initially be free, in keeping with Lisbon's reputation as the cheapest city in Europe .

However, fees will eventually be introduced, except for Navegante pass holders, who will continue getting access without charge.

The funicular will operate every day between 9am and 9pm.

Pictures of the new lift were shared on social media , with people impressed by what they'd seen.

Three scenic train journeys you can take in the UK

british tourist attractions a z

Cornish Coast - One trip that rail enthusiasts seem to love is along a stretch of the  Cornish  coast and takes just 10 minutes to complete.

The route from St Erth to  St Ives  only stops at Carbis Bay en route to its final destination, but the views out the window for the whole journey are pretty spectacular.

Another highlight of the journey is that St Ives station is situated right next to  Porthminster beach , meaning the sand and sea can be accessed almost immediately.

Meanwhile, the station is less than a ten minute walk into town, where the harbour, shops, galleries and  pubs  can be explored.

Durham to Edinburgh - Another train route that people in the UK love is the East Coast train line between Durham and Edinburgh, with coastal views and city landscapes among the sights that can be seen out the window.

Newcastle , Berwick, Lindisfarne and Durham Cathedral are all among the highlights on that route.

Scotland's West Highland Line - While  Scotland  is home to plenty of famous landmarks and top attractions, it also has one of the most breathtaking train routes in the world.

Scotland's West Highland Line has previously been dubbed the best rail journey in the world by  Wanderlust  - and it's easy to see why.

The journey from Glasgow to Fort William is one of my favourite train routes - and I've  interrailed through mainland Europe .

With mountain landscapes, serene lochs, wistful moors, and wildlife all visible through the  train window , it's certainly a route all holidaymakers should consider doing at least once.

One commented: "The city of three beautiful old funiculars, has just added a fourth modern one!"

Another added: "I won't have to climb those endless stairs again."

The main draw of the funicular for tourists is its increased access to the Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen Viewpoint

It's described on TripAdvisor as "one of the most beautiful and welcoming terraces of Lisbon".

A small kiosk that serves food and drink to its visitors as they look out over the rest of the city.

It's not the only funicular in Europe with plans to open, with one in the UK hoping to be relaunched some time in the future.

The popular ride is the Cairngorm Mountain Railway funicular in Scotland .

The railway, which is the highest in the UK, takes passengers along a 2km track through parts of the Cairngorms National Park .

However, since last August, visitors have not been able to ride the train due to ongoing maintenance work.

It had only reopened for the first time in more than four years in January 2023, following £25m worth of repairs.

It was hoped that the railway could be reopened soon, but Highlands and Islands Enterprise, who operate the train, has now revealed that there is still no clear return date for the train.

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  1. 16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in England

    Bath also makes an ideal location from which to explore some of England's most stunning countryside, including the Avon Valley, the Mendip Hills, the Cotswolds, and countless other fantastic Somerset landmarks. 4. The British Museum, Bloomsbury, London. Iron Age piece in the British Museum.

  2. The A to Z of England

    Z is for Zennor. This little village in Cornwall comes with quite a peculiar name and some rather striking views. The quarry in the village once serviced the building of nearby St Ives and St Just. If you stay close by, you'll come across the curious Zennor Quoit as well as a wealth of history, complete with mermaids and princesses. There is ...

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    Things to do. Now is the perfect time to discover another side of Britain. Tuck into food as diverse as our people, or discover our cities by paddleboard or street art tour. Dance 'til dusk at any one of our intimate underground venues and huge concerts, or bring the past to life in our castles and historic buildings.

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    6. Spot seals at Blakeney Point in Norfolk. The north Norfolk coastline is a sweet place to spend away a day or two. Head to Blakeney in search of the area's salt marshes, sand dunes, sea birds ...

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    2. Go up on the London Eye. It's ever so touristy, but if you only do one mainstream thing in London, make it the London Eye. It takes half an hour for your pod to travel the full length of the wheel, and the views of the capital sprawling out beneath you are absolutely unmatchable. 3.

  6. Must-see attractions in Great Britain

    More destinations you need to see. The Highlands & Islands. Devon & Cornwall. Southwest England. Devon, Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly. The United Kingdom. Discover the best attractions in Great Britain including Windsor Castle, Westminster Abbey, and Edinburgh Castle.

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    6. York. With its Roman and Viking heritage, ancient city walls and maze of cobbled streets, York is a living record of English history. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider's web of "snickelways" (narrow alleys), each one the focus of a ghost story or historical character.

  8. 19 Best Places to Visit in the UK

    5. Royal Windsor Windsor Castle. The historic town of Windsor, conveniently located a short train ride west of Central London, offers plenty of fun attractions for tourists.In addition to its lovely Thames-side setting and the many medieval half-timbered buildings along its quaint old cobblestone laneways, it's also home to spectacular Windsor Castle, the most famous of the UK's royal castles.

  9. The Official Website For UK Tourism

    We're here to help. From bustling city experiences to countryside rambles and coastal dips - discover adventure all over England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Let VisitBritain provide you with fresh perspectives of the UK's diverse cities, modern twists, historic icons, and green spaces full of unexpected gems.

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    Pre-order UK attractions, tours and travel tickets before you arrive in the UK. Go to Shop. Visas and entry. Visa and immigration. Latest COVID-19 requirements. Open menu Close menu. ... Tourism Northern Ireland. Birmingham. An industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart and a whole host of quirky adventures. West Midlands Growth Company.

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    Top 50 famous UK landmarks. 1. Big Ben, London. Big Ben and one of London's famous red telephone boxes. Location: Westminster, Central London, England. What is it: It's the most commonly used name for the Elizabeth Tower of the Houses of Parliament. But Big Ben is actually the bell within the Tower.

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    Galloway Forest is home to Britain's only Dark Sky Park. Arch White/Alamy. Far from the light pollution of towns and cities, Galloway Forest Park is the first Dark Sky Park in the UK. Head here ...

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    The Valley Gardens at Windsor Great Park Natural History Museum, London British Museum, London. This article lists the most-visited attractions in the United Kingdom, including art galleries, gardens, zoos theatres, libraries and museums. Attraction Ranking Rank Museum Location Country Visitors (2022) 1:

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    The best of British. From ancient marvels to modern masterpieces, Britain is packed with some truly epic sights. You can explore Roman fortifications, delve down into mysterious caverns, wonder at priceless collections in world-renowned museums and stroll around sprawling country estates.

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    List of amusement parks in the United Kingdom. Amongst the most popular amusement and theme parks in England are Pleasure Beach Blackpool, Alton Towers, Thorpe Park and Legoland Windsor. Anglo-Saxon sites in England. There are very few surviving Anglo-Saxon buildings in England, however countless artefacts from the age can be seen in museums ...

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    Here at British Heritage Travel we believe the Giant's Causeway to be one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Europe. The result of an ancient volcanic eruption, the Giant's Causeway truly is a sight to behold. 8. Giant's Causeway.

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    More destinations you need to see. Western Europe. Great Britain. The Highlands & Islands. Provence & the Côte d'Azur. Devon & Cornwall. Discover the best attractions in The United Kingdom including Windsor Castle, Westminster Abbey, and Edinburgh Castle.

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    The Crown Jewels are on display too. ⚔ Madame Tussauds - Get up close and personal with over 250 waxworks of famous people. ⛓ London Dungeon - Enjoy a recreation of some of London's goriest and macabre historical events. 🐧 London Zoo - World's oldest scientific zoo and a popular attraction for families.

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    Aberdeen is a city with not one but two Old Towns. There's Old Aberdeen and Footdee. Old Aberdeen is a photographer's dream, with its cobbled streets, mature trees and 15th century fortified cathedral. Footdee - known locally as Fittie is a quirky fishing quarter at the water's edge, with squares of tiny cottages.

  22. Z: Letter P London Landmarks And Tourist Attractions

    Behind the fence, we can see its pointed arches of the Palace of Westminster, the UK Houses of Parliament. It is the heart of British politics and where laws are made and debated and the work of government is challenged. ... These are just a few of the tourist attractions you can find which begin with the letter P. My name is Hamish Carroll ...

  23. Z: Letter J London Landmarks And Tourist Attractions

    Blue Badge Tourist Guide Mark King continues our Guide London A-Z video series and provides insights on the historical events, famous and not-so-famous landmarks in London starting with the Letter J. Guide London A-Z: Letter J London tourist attractions and landmarks! Watch on.

  24. The world's most 'overrated' tourist attraction is in the UK

    From sprawling green parks to Royal palaces, the UK has a lot to offer the almost 40 million tourists that visit each year.. However, it's also home to the world's most 'overrated' tourist ...

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    At 4,413 feet (1,345m) above sea level, Ben Nevis is the tallest peak in the British Isles, and its soaring views are just one of the reasons 150,000 visitors come to conquer its slopes every year ...

  26. New €7m tourist attraction with amazing views opens in Europe's

    A TOURIST attraction in a popular European capital has opened after years spent constructing it. The €7million (£5.9m) project was finally completed in Lisbon earlier this week, providing ...