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Introduction

From our bustling cities and striking coastline to inspirational outdoor adventures, there are so many things to see and do in Britain and Northern Ireland.

England is renowned for its iconic landmarks, as well as historic castles, world-leading museums, diverse festivals and top-notch sport.

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Explore Scotland’s stunning lakes, highlands, and wildlife-rich islands, as well as lively cities bursting with character.

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Wales sparkles with scenic beauty, rich history and adventure, from its magnificent castles and National Parks, to rolling hills, mountains and coastline.

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Northern Ireland

Discover World Heritage sites and Game of Thrones filming locations, dramatic coastlines, historic castles, and thrilling outdoor adventure in Northern Ireland.

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Discover world-leading museums and galleries, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and a city brimming with history and culture.

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Explore Edinburgh, capital of Scotland, the world’s leading festival city and home to 10 international festivals.

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Explore Wales’ capital city Cardiff, famed for its iconic rugby stadium, Victorian shopping arcades, and thriving food scene.

Belfast is a vibrant cultural hub on Northern Ireland’s east coast, packed with lively pubs, a diverse food scene and proud industrial heritage.

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Famed for its Roman spa and Georgian architecture, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath has long been celebrated as a wellness and cultural retreat.

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Britain’s second largest city, Birmingham is an industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart.

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Brighton rocks as a seaside town with cool shops, diverse cuisine, and inclusive celebrations bursting with south coast Pride.

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Bristol is a creative city with a rich maritime heritage, and home to legendary street artist Banksy.

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The city of Cambridge is a hub for innovation and creativity, with a famous university dating back more than 800 years.

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Explore Coventry, birthplace of 2-Tone Music, Britain’s motor industry, and Peaky Blinders filming locations.

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Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, is full of character, with striking architecture, abundant green spaces, and a music scene as vibrant as its people.

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The Lake District is Britain’s largest National Park at 912 square miles (2,362 square km) and is recognised by UNESCO for its beauty – its stunning lakes and mountains have inspired artists and writers for centuries.

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Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with more museums and galleries than any city outside of London.

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Home to Manchester United and music legends, Manchester is one of Britain’s most dynamic cities, with an industrial history matched by its modern-day appeal.

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Nottingham 

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

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Oxford is known as the 'City of Dreaming Spires', in honour of the architecture of Britain’s oldest university.

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Rich in history and royal traditions, Windsor is home to Britain’s largest inhabited castle and has been home to royalty for centuries.

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Newcastle-Gateshead

The city of Newcastle stands on the north bank of the River Tyne, connected to the neighbouring town of Gateshead by seven bridges.

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York is a medieval walled city with Viking and Roman heritage, famed for its magnificent cathedral and abundance of museums.

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Countryside

Peak district.

Home to some of Britain’s most dramatic scenery, the Peak District, east of Manchester, is a place of rolling hills and rugged moors, with picturesque market towns and adventure galore.

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Lake District

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Brecon Beacons

From rolling valleys and sweeping peaks to dramatic waterfalls, the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park in South Wales is overflowing with natural wonders, culture and heritage.

South Downs

The South Downs in Southern England is Britain’s newest national park, bringing together ancient woodland, seven rivers, historic castles and spectacular coastal trails.

Borders and Lowlands

The gateway into Scotland, the area packs the punch for outdoor adventure, with miles of cycling and hiking trails, paddleboarding and numerous golf courses.

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North York Moors

The North York Moors National Park, in North Yorkshire, stretches from countryside to coast and is home open moorland, sandy beaches and harbour villages.

Snowdonia (Eryri)

From its peaks and tumbling waterfalls, to charming villages and 200-miles of beautiful coastline, Snowdonia (Eryri) is Wales’ largest national park.

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Northumberland

Northumberland features historic castles, coastal trails and spectacular scenery within its National Park.

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Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire National Park, on the western edge of Wales, covers an area of 240 square miles (621 square km) and is home to sandy beaches, wildlife-filled islands, and medieval castles.

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The New Forest National Park in Hampshire, southern England, is a region of forest, open countryside and coastline, famed for its free-roaming ponies.

This vast, untamed national park in the heart of the Scottish Highlands is home to impressive mountains and castles, ancient forests, rare wildlife, and exciting year-round activities.

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Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is 30 miles (48km) from Glasgow and is an adventure haven, home to 720 square miles (1,865 square km) of mountains, forests and lakes.

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Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales National Park covers 841 square miles (2,179 square km) of rolling hills, dramatic waterfalls, and is home to a spectacular network of 2,500 caves.

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

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Dartmoor and Exmoor

The two national parks of Dartmoor and Exmoor in south west England combine to offer dramatic coastline, untamed moors, spectacular wildlife and miles of trails to explore.

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Explore England’s south-eastern county, affectionately known as the 'Garden of England'.

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

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The Scottish Highlands

Located in the northern reaches of Scotland, the wild and awe-inspiring Scottish Highlands are all about scenic beauty and adventure.

The Broads National Park sits on the border between Suffolk and Norfolk, in the east of England.

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Embracing five English counties, the lush rolling countryside, pretty stone villages, and rambling rivers of The Cotswolds offer a quintessential taste of Britain.

North Wales

North Wales is brimming with UNESCO World Heritage sites, magnificent castles, stunning coastlines, rolling hills and adrenaline-fuelled adventure.

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Wales Coast Path

The Wales Coast Path takes in 870 miles (1,400km) of beaches, clifftop hikes, wildlife-filled islands, and historic castles along the nation’s coastline.

North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is an epic scenic route around the North Highlands of Scotland.

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King Charles III England Coast Path

A coastal masterpiece, the King Charles III England Coast Path will be the world’s longest shore walk, spanning a remarkable 2,795 miles (4,500km) of beaches, cities and nature reserves.

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Jurassic Coast

At 200 million years old, the 96-mile (155km) stretch of south-west coastline known as the Jurassic Coast is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Causeway Coast

Wild waters and mythical landscapes, this stretch of the Atlantic coastline is home to Northern Ireland’s UNESCO World Heritage site, the Giant’s Causeway, and the stunning 130-mile (212km) Causeway Coastal Route.

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Scottish Islands

The awe-inspiring Scottish Islands are full of character, with friendly communities and an abundance of wildlife.

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Planning an England trip in 2024? Consider these 16 top places to visit

Feb 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Gracious Bath is an excellent place to immerse yourself in England’s history and beauty © gowithstock / Shutterstock

The story of  England  stretches back more than 5000 years (and likely many more). Which means its impossible to escape the past here.

As you wander its historic urban centers, mysterious monoliths, misty landscapes and rugged  coastlines  and national parks , you’ll discover a country filled with unparalleled places to visit that are are the more compelling thanks to all those who have visited them before.

As you plan a trip to England this year, here’s our list of 16 historic, exciting and all-around fabulous highlights to consider.

1. The Seven Sisters 

While  Dover ’s iconic white cliffs grab the most attention, the colossal chalky walls of the Seven Sisters are a more spectacular affair, a four-mile roller-coaster of sheer white rock stretching along the Sussex shore and overlooking the waters of the English Channel. It forms an impressive southern border to the South Downs National Park , and is most dramatic at the towering headland of Beachy Head . Hikes through the grassy clifftop fields provide wide sea views, breathtaking in every sense.

Local tip:  Stop for a breather at the tiny seaside hamlet of Birling Gap, where the secluded beach is a sun trap popular with locals and walkers.

Oxford  lets visitors feel close to the brilliant minds and august institutions that have made this city famous across the globe. This rarefied world comes to life in the cobbled lanes and ancient quads where cycling students and eccentric academics roam. The beautiful college buildings and stunning architecture have changed little over the centuries, coexisting with a lively, modern, working city. As befits a city of students and professors, Oxford is one of the last bastions of the great British pub, with irresistible old watering holes dotted all over its central lanes and alleyways. 

3. Cambridge

In England’s other great historic university city, Cambridge , you can tour a  college , and spend time marveling at the intricate vaulting of King’s College Chapel . But no trip to Cambridge is complete without an attempt to take a punt (flat-bottomed boat) along the River Cam by the picturesque Backs , the leafy, green lawns behind the city's finest colleges – an experience that offers the best views of the exquisite architecture. Polish off the day with a pint at one of Cambridge’s many rustic pubs. 

In a nation packed with pretty cities, Bath  stands out as the belle of the ball. Founded by the Romans, who established the spa resort of Aquae Sulis to take advantage of the area’s hot springs , Bath hit its stride in the 18th century, when the rich industrialist Ralph Allen and architects John Wood the Elder and John Wood the Younger oversaw the city’s transformation into a model of Georgian architecture at its most refined . Bath is awash with golden stone townhouses, sweeping green crescents and Palladian mansions, along with appealing pubs and restaurants, and you’ll take great pleasure in plunging in. 

5. Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the country's most dramatic Roman ruins, a 2000-year-old procession of abandoned forts, garrisons, towers and milecastles marching across the wild and lonely landscape of northern England. While the Romans built the fortification to defend and control its territory, this edge-of-empire barrier also symbolized the boundary of civilized order in the ancient world: to the north of the Roman settlement lay the unruly land of the marauding Celts. Near Newcastle  you can visit Segedunum , the wall’s last stronghold, for an insight into life during Roman times.

Planning tip:  Hiking the full 84-mile distance coast to coast along the national trail takes around a week. If you have less time and your own car, you may want to select from a few of the wall's  highlights .

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. At the city’s heart lies the immense, awe-inspiring York Minster , the biggest medieval cathedral in all of northern Europe, and one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world. Admire feats of engineering of a more recent vintage at the National Railway Museum , the world’s largest collection of historic locomotives.

York’s long history and rich heritage are woven into virtually every brick and beam, and the modern, tourist-oriented city – with its myriad museums, restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs – is a carefully maintained showcase of that heritage.

Local tip: You’ll find some of the finest views of York from its old city walls, particularly the bucolic section behind the Minster. 

7. The Peak District

Curiously, you won’t find many peaks in the Peak District . You will find blissful miles of tumbling moorland, plunging valleys, eroded gritstone crags, lush farmland and ancient pocket-sized villages. This beautiful landscape attracts a veritable army of outdoor enthusiasts – cyclists, hikers, cavers and rock climbers – on summer weekends, while those seeking more relaxing enjoyment can admire the rural market and famous puddings of Bakewell, the Victorian pavilions of spa-town Buxton, and the architectural drama of Chatsworth House – the “Palace of the Peak.”

8. Brighton

Barely an hour’s train ride from the capital, the seaside city of Brighton has a quirky character that’s completely its own. Overlooking the English Channel on England’s pebbly south coast, this is a city that's long been known for its oddball, alternative character. The warren of streets known as the Lanes is a good place to soak up the vibe, with vegan cafes, espresso bars, chaotic pubs, record stores and bric-a-brac shops. (Browsers will be in heaven at local institution Snooper’s Paradise .) You'll also find the UK ’s biggest queer scene here, and the region’s best small clubs. The highlight for the sightseeing visitor is the Royal Pavilion , a 19th-century party palace built by the Prince Regent, who kicked off Brighton’s love of the outlandish.

9. Stonehenge

Mysterious and compelling, Stonehenge is England’s most famous ancient site . Even though people have been drawn to this myth-laden ring of boulders for more than 5000 years, we still don’t know quite why it was built. An ultramodern makeover at the ancient site has brought an impressive visitor center and the closure of an intrusive road (now restored to grassland). The result is a strong sense of historical context, with dignity and mystery returned to an archaeological gem.

Most visitors gaze at the approximately 25-ton stones from behind the perimeter fence, yet with enough planning, you can arrange an early-morning or evening tour and gain access to the inner ring itself. In the slanting sunlight, away from the crowds, it’s an ethereal place. This is an experience that stays with you.

10. Stratford-upon-Avon

The pretty town of Stratford-upon-Avon is where William Shakespeare was born and later shuffled off this mortal coil. Today, its tight knot of Tudor streets form a living map of Shakespeare’s life. Huge crowds of thespians and theater lovers come to take in a play at the famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre . Bard fans will love visiting the five historic houses owned by Shakespeare and his relatives and  the schoolroom where he was educated, before taking a respectful detour to the old stone church where he was laid to rest.

11. Liverpool

It’s hard not to be infected by Liverpudlians’ love for their hometown. The love endured despite decades of decay and all manner of social ills – finding its expression in a renowned gallows humor and an obsession with football. With some of the most passionate crowds in the country, taking in a game at either Liverpool FC or Everton FC is a rite of passage here.

Outside of the stadium, the rejuvenated waterfront is once again the heart of Liverpool . The focal point is Albert Dock, an iconic docklands flanked by protected buildings, including a batch of top museums. The Merseyside Maritime Museum and the International Slavery Museum ensure the good and bad sides of Liverpool’s history are explored in equal measure, while the Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Story museum celebrate popular culture and the city’s most famous musical sons (still).

12. The Cotswolds

A tangle of impossibly quaint villages of rose-clad cottages and honey-colored stone, The Cotswolds  is a region that spreads over six English counties. It’s a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and its most wonderful quality is that no matter where you go or how lost you get, you’ll still end up in a spot with a charming village green, a pub with sloping floors and fine ales, and a view of the lush green hills. Crisscrossed by long-distance trails including the 102-mile Cotswold Way , these gentle yet dramatic hills are perfect for walking, cycling and horse-riding.

Local tip: It’s easy to leave the crowds behind and find your very own slice of medieval England here – and some of the best boutique hotels in the country.

A little weird, occasionally weather-beaten and all-around wonderful, the classic northern seaside town of Whitby has haunted lanes, fossil-hunting and arguably England’s finest fish-and-chips. The huddle of 18th-century fisher’s cottages along the East Cliff are testament to its longtime role as a busy commercial and fishing port: it was here that 18th-century explorer Captain James Cook earned his sea legs. Atop the West Cliff, a sandy beach, amusement arcades and promenading holidaymakers show Whitby’s beach-resort side.

Keeping a watchful eye over the town and the River Esk that divides it is an atmospheric ruined abbey , the inspiration and setting for part of Bram Stoker’s Gothic horror story Dracula . But tales of witchery and ghostly legends have haunted Whitby ever since Anglo-Saxon St Hilda landed here to found a monastic community in 657 CE.

Planning tip: The town embraces its pseudo-sinister reputation, which culminates in two hugely successful Goth Weekends each year.

14. The Lake District

William Wordsworth and his Romantic friends were the first to champion the charms of the Lake District  – and it's not hard to see what stirred them. Already the UK’s most popular national park, the Lake District also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, in recognition of its long history of hill-farming. But for most people it’s the chance to hike the humpbacked fells and drink in the gorgeous scenery that keeps them returning year after year.

The region is filled with outdoor pursuits, from lake cruises to mountain walks – excursions that help reveal why the region has such deep literary connections. In addition to Wordsworth, writers who found inspiration here include Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Arthur Ransome and Beatrix Potter.

15. The Eden Project

A cross between a lunar landing station and a James Bond villain’s lair, the gigantic hemispherical greenhouses of the Eden Project  have become a symbol of Cornwall ’s renaissance. Built in an abandoned clay pit near St Austell to mark the start of the new millennium, and now considered one of Britain’s modern architectural wonders, the Eden Project aims to explore issues of environment and conservation, and point the way to a cleaner, greener future for us all.

Exhibits cover everything from global warming to rubber production and chocolate-making. The glass-domed “biomes” recreate major world climate systems in microcosm, from the lush jungles of the Amazon rainforest (complete with treetop walkway winding through the canopy) to the olive trees, citrus groves and colorful flowers of the Mediterranean, South Africa and California. It’s incredibly impressive – not to mention educational, and inspiring, too.

Shoulder-deep in history, London ’s rich seams of eye-opening antiquity appear at every turn. The city’s architecture pens a beguiling biography, and a multitude of buildings – the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey , Big Ben – are internationally recognizable landmarks. It’s also a tireless innovator of art and culture, a city of ideas and imagination. This legacy is enshrined at world-class institutions such as the British Museum , Natural History Museum  and the Science Museum , as well as such world-leading art galleries as the  Tate Modern , Tate Britain , the National Gallery  and the recently reopened National Portrait Gallery , all of which are free to visit. 

Local tip:  However you budget your time and money in London, make sure you take in a show. Big names perform on  the West End (London’s equivalent of Broadway), and on the South Bank at the National Theatre  and  the Old Vic . Smaller theaters from the Almeida to the Lyric Hammersmith are places to discover up-an-coming talent.

This article was first published Apr 13, 2021 and updated Feb 26, 2024.

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Introduction

Britain and Northern Ireland currently have no official COVID-19 restrictions in place, however there is still guidance on what to do should you catch coronavirus while here on holiday. For more information, please check the official government websites using the links below.

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13 Places To Visit In Britain If You Love The Royal Family

G reat Britain is known for its historic landmarks, beautiful gardens, and passionate sporting culture, yet no other icon is more closely associated with the country than the royal family. For centuries, the world has been fascinated by the lifestyles of kings and queens, from where they live to what they like to eat, but the British royal family remains one of the most recognizable monarchies in the world.

Along with the world's interest, the monarchy's appeal within the United Kingdom is also apparent. Throughout the U.K., there are museums, castles, landmarks, and gardens dedicated to the monarchy, which celebrate the royal family's history and legacy. 

While it may seem like royal residences and gilded carriages would be off-limits to the average tourist, it's perfectly possible to get a taste of royal life during your next visit to Britain. Whether you're looking for a history lesson or a spot of the Queen's favorite tea, there are plenty of places to visit if you love the royal family.

Read more: 28 Bucket List Destinations That Everyone Needs To Experience At Least Once

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is a working royal palace and the King's official residence. Built in 1825, Buckingham Palace was commissioned by King George IV who asked architect John Nash to design a grand palace fit for a king within the city of London.

The "palace fit for a king" has a total of 775 rooms, many of them filled with paintings by Old Masters and rare antiques. While the private living quarters are off-limits to visitors, a tour does include the 19 staterooms where the royal family entertains. The White Drawing Room is the grandest of all staterooms, with gilded ceilings and white pilasters; it is frequently the setting for pre-dinner gatherings. The largest is the Ball Room, completed in 1855 during Queen Victoria's reign. It is the setting for concerts and state banquets. The Throne Room holds the two coronation chairs originally commissioned for Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip, but they were most recently used for the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla.

Buckingham Palace is only open for 10 weeks a year from late July through September while the King is at Balmoral in Scotland on summer holiday. Still, the palace often holds special events for ticket holders throughout the year.

Westminster Abbey

As one of the country's greatest landmarks, Westminster Abbey is a cathedral with 1,000 years of history, much of it tied to the royal family. Originally built as a Benedictine monastery, Westminster Abbey was rebuilt in 1065 by Edward the Confessor, and later rebuilt by King Henry III between 1220 and 1272. Designed in the Gothic style, the cathedral is recognized worldwide as an architectural masterpiece.

Westminster Abbey has been the site of every coronation since 1066, as well as the setting for numerous royal occasions. The Abbey held state funerals for both Queen Elizabeth II, as well as Princess Diana, and was the site of the 2011 wedding of Prince William of Wales and Princess Catherine. Westminster Abbey is also the burial site of more than 3,000 prominent Great Britons, including many royals. Queen Anne, Edward the Confessor, Mary Queen of Scots, and Queen Elizabeth I are all buried here.

St. Paul's Cathedral

Designed by famous architect Sir Christopher Wren, St. Paul's Cathedral in London is a city icon that has been hosting cultural and religious events since 1665. The Baroque-style cathedral sits on Ludgate Hill, the highest point in the city of London. At 365 feet, its dome is one of the highest in the world, and the cathedral was the tallest building in London until 1963. The prominent dome and surrounding church spires are some of the most recognized landmarks in London.

St. Paul's Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral and serves as the seat of the Bishop of London. The cathedral has hosted many prominent religious services, including the state funerals of Margaret Thatcher and Sir Winston Churchill. Both Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II celebrated their Jubilee Services at the cathedral. The wedding of King Charles and Princess Diana was also celebrated at the cathedral in July 1981, which was one of the most-watched television events in history.

As a working cathedral, St. Paul's hosts daily Anglican services, but visitors can purchase tickets for private and self-guided tours. Highlights include The Grand Organ, which has operated since 1695, the throne of the Bishop in the Quire, and The American Memorial Chapel, dedicated to the 28,000 Americans who lost their lives in Britain during World War II.

Hampton Court Palace

Famous for its extensive gardens and maze, Hampton Court Palace is a Tudor masterpiece that has hosted royals since the early 16th century. Originally commissioned by Cardinal Wolsey, Hampton Court caught the attention of King Henry VIII, who eventually made it his home, bringing all six of his wives here.

Henry VIII used the palace as a place to entertain, and its grand design was considered both modern and ostentatious at the time. The centerpiece of the palace is The Great Hall, a towering space designed by Henry VIII that was meant to convey his power. Boasting a magnificent hammerbeam roof, the Great Hall contains artifacts like Anne Boleyn's coat of arms. Many historic events occurred at the palace, including the divorce of Henry VIII and Anne of Cleves. He also married his wife Catherine Howard at the palace. 

The palace also served as a working royal residence until the 19th century, when Queen Victoria decided to open it to the public in 1838. Today, visitors can tour the palace, its grounds, and its ornate chapel. One of the most popular sites of Hampton Court is the garden hedge maze. Originally commissioned in the early 1700s, it is the oldest surviving hedge maze in Great Britain.

Tower Of London

While Hampton Court Palace was the location of everyday life for Tudor-era royals, the Tower of London is where some Tudor royals met their end. Built in 1070 by William the Conquerer, the Tower of London was built as a fortress-like structure designed to defend London against its enemies. A mighty stone tower sits as its centerpiece and the structure took 20 years to build with stone imported from France. For the next two centuries, the Tower was expanded to include a defensive wall, an armory, and a national mint. The Tower of London was frequently used to house royals and their precious possessions during times of distress.

The Tower of London has been the site of many tragedies involving the royal family. It is where both Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey spent their final days before execution; it is also where two princes, the children of Edward IV, would perish during the War of the Roses.

Throughout history, the Tower of London has served as a fortress, palace, and prison. Today, it remains one of London's most popular attractions. Visitors can tour the Tower and view its collection of armor or meet one of the 37 Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, who guard the Tower. The most secure and highly protected wing of the Tower is the Jewel House, which contains more than 23,000 gemstones, including precious tiaras, necklaces, and other gems that make up the official Crown Jewels.

National Portrait Gallery

Established in 1856 by Lord Ellesmere, the National Portrait Gallery is located in the heart of London near Trafalgar Square. One of London's best museums for art-lovers, the gallery has more than 22,000 works and houses the most extensive portrait collection in the world. Recently reopened after a three-year refurbishment, it has thousands of portraits of prominent Britons, from historical leaders like Winston Churchill to contemporary figures like Elton John and David Bowie.

The National Portrait Gallery holds official portraits of every prominent member of the royal family and has extensive collections from the Tudor, Elizabethan, Edwardian, and Victorian reigns. The gallery also contains the official portraits of every modern royal, including King Charles, Kate Middleton, and Prince William. A popular site for tourists, visitors can take guided tours or view rotating exhibitions of British arts and culture. Most recently, the gallery hosted a collection of photography and a Beatles retrospective by Sir Paul McCartney.

London's most famous park was originally founded by the monks of Westminster Abbey until Henry VIII purchased it to use as his hunting grounds. It remained a private park until Charles I permitted the public to access it in 1637. Throughout the park, you can find monuments and statues dedicated to the royal family. The Diana Memorial Fountain, unveiled by Queen Elizabeth in 2004, is built of Cornish granite and is designed to reflect the ebb and flow of Princess Diana's life. The Queen Elizabeth Gates in Hyde Park was designed to honor Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. They were unveiled in 1993 and feature a whimsical design of a lion and a unicorn, representing England and Scotland.

The park's winding paths, lake, and gardens are a popular outing in central London any time of year. At Speakers Corner, visitors can see where radicals used to "get on their soapbox" and preach about everything from politics to religion. The centerpiece of the park is The Serpentine Lake, where visitors can rent paddle boats or dine at the boat house. In the winter, Hyde Park turns into a winter wonderland, with an ice rink, food stands, and a Santaland with carnival rides. Visiting the park is a must-do in London at Christmas . 

The Royal Mews

Ever dreamed of seeing a real gilded carriage fit for royalty? At The Royal Mews, a working stable and museum adjacent to Buckingham Palace, you can. The Royal Mews is responsible for all road travel for the King and the Royal Family, from horse and carriage ceremonies to official car processions. The organization has been around since the 14th century, and its headquarters was built in the gardens of Buckingham Palace in 1825.

A visit to the Mews might include seeing one of the stable's Cleveland Bay or Windsor Grey horses, or trying out a replica open carriage like the one Queen Victoria used. Visitors can also see the livery worn by the King's coachmen or learn how to tack a horse on a wooden pony. The real draw, however, is the fleet of carriages used to carry the royal family throughout history, including the 260-year-old Gold State Coach. The coach features gilded woodwork, intricately carved sculpture, and painted panels of Roman gods and goddesses. Weighing over four tons, the carriage has been used to transport the monarchy in every coronation since that of William IV. As a note, The Royal Mews is closed until March 1, 2024. 

Madame Tussaud's

It is possible to get close to members of the royal family -- wax versions, that is. The world-famous Madame Tussauds wax museum in London is home to 150 lifelike figures, including members of Britain's royal family. The museum's Royal Palace exhibit includes a throne room with wax figure renderings of every major royal, including the Prince and Princess of Wales, Queen Elizabeth, King Charles, and Queen Camilla.

Open since 1884 on Baker Street in London, Madame Tussauds is a London institution that not only offers a lighthearted look at the world's most famous faces, but the museum has the direct support of the monarchy. The museum's Queen Elizabeth figure is the 23rd incarnation the museum has created throughout her historic 70-year reign. During its creation, Madame Tussauds' sculptors collaborated with Buckingham Palace by providing images of the clay sculptures as they were in progress to create the most authentic and lifelike incarnation of "Her Majesty."

Fortnum And Mason

London's most famous tea shop, Fortnum and Mason , has had a long and storied relationship with the royal family since it was first established in 1707. Founder William Fortnum was originally a footman for Queen Anne. He later established his tea shop with Hugh Mason, and the two would go on to create a culinary empire that still provides tea to the royal family today. The flagship store in Picadilly sells everything from the Royal Blend tea to Sandringham coffee blend and has held a Royal Warrant (products approved by the monarchy) since 1910.

Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, was known to do her Christmas shopping annually in person at the store, and every modern royal has visited the shop in recent years. Queen Elizabeth, Queen Camilla, and Princess Catherine all visited together in 2012 for the opening of the store's Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon. Today, thousands of tourists and shoppers visit the store to purchase tea, coffee, and gourmet food as well as the shop's famous Christmas hampers. One can also enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in London  in the tea salon where treats like cucumber sandwiches, scones, and pastries are served on the store's iconic blue plates.

Windsor Castle

The oldest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle has been home to 40 monarchs. Built by William the Conquerer in the 11th century, Windsor Castle was built high on the River Thames at the edge of hunting grounds. It was designed to serve as a military fortification to guard the western approach to London. King Edward II began converting it into a royal residence in the 14th century.

Windsor Castle remained a preferred residence of royals for centuries and was the favored respite of Queen Victoria, who spent much of her reign here. Today, visitors can see the castle's state apartments or view attractions like Queen Mary's doll house. The Grand Reception Room contains real gold chandeliers and gilded ceilings; as the most luxurious room in the castle, it was Queen Elizabeth II's favorite room to entertain guests.

Another highlight of Windsor Castle is St. George's Chapel, located within the castle grounds. St. George's Chapel is the burial place of 11 monarchs, including Henry VIII, Charles II, and most recently, Queen Elizabeth II. The chapel has also been the site of several royal weddings, including the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, as well as The Earl and Countess of Wessex. A worthwhile day trip destination from London , Windsor Castle is located about an hour from the city. 

Kensington Palace

Originally built as a modest home known as Nottingham House, Kensington Palace started out as the country retreat of King William in 1687 and was gradually expanded over the years to become the palace that stands today. It was the birthplace of Queen Victoria, who spent most of her childhood here until she moved to Buckingham Palace. Kensington Palace has been home to many royals over the years, including Princess Margaret and Princess Diana. It currently serves as the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Wales and their three children.

Visitors to Kensington Palace can see the King's and Queen's State Rooms, as well as a permanent exhibition on the life of Queen Victoria. The exhibit offers a glimpse of her reimagined childhood rooms, as well as her collection of jewelry gifted to her by her beloved husband Albert. Kensington Palace is surrounded by expansive gardens, including the Sunken Garden, an all-white garden dedicated to the memory of Princess Diana. The garden features a statue of the late Princess with her sons, William and Harry. The statue was unveiled in 2017 on what would have been the Princess of Wales' 60th birthday.

The palace museum is open year-round and also hosts seasonal exhibits highlighting the fashion, decor, and history of the royal family. The Orangery at Kensington Palace serves traditional afternoon tea daily, and the palace shop sells an extensive collection of royal-inspired merchandise.

St. James Park

Similar to Hyde Park, Henry VIII originally acquired St. James Park in 1532 to serve as royal hunting grounds. St. James Park is London's oldest Royal Park and one of its most beautiful. The park is bordered on all sides by The Mall, Green Park, Buckingham Palace, and Whitehall. It is also adjacent to Birdcage Walk, the site of the Churchill War Rooms. Listed on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, the park is laid out in a series of gardens surrounding a small lake. The lake is home to various waterbirds, including the park's famous pelicans, which were introduced as a gift from a Russian ambassador to King Charles II in 1664. 

St. James Park's location near The Mall offers an ideal viewing site for royal processions and historical celebrations that occur along the route to Buckingham Palace. It also provides views of The Changing of the Guard from its northern entrance, and from the Blue Bridge, which spans the lake at the center of the park, you can enjoy picture-perfect views of the London Eye and Buckingham Palace.

Read the original article on Explore .

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• Society and culture

Culture Secretary speech at GREAT Futures

Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer delivers keynote speech at the GREAT Futures event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Good morning everyone and thank you for that kind introduction, Louise.

It’s a pleasure to be here and to be part of this brilliant day.

I must start by thanking the patron for GREAT, His Excellency Majed AlQassabi, and all of the teams behind this excellently crafted event.

Yours is a Kingdom that is on the move and we, as a Government and as a country, want to move with you.

We recognise that few places on earth have changed more in the past decade.

Our two countries have always found common ground in spheres such as international development and security cooperation, but it is clear today - in 2024 - that there are huge new opportunities available to us both.

Days like this really underscore the immense cultural and creative ambitions of the Kingdom in its Vision 2030. 

That Vision is bold, it is ambitious and I am here today because I believe Britain can play a role in that story.

Because, like Saudi Arabia, we too are unapologetically ambitious in capitalising on our strengths to grow our economy and improve lives for people in Britain and around the world.

But before I speak to the huge opportunities for collaboration, I want to touch on the exceptional job the Kingdom has done over the past decade of growing and expanding the Saudi Creative Industries.

For years, other Arab capitals - like Cairo, Beirut, Damascus and Baghdad - stood out as the Arab cultural beacons where blockbuster movies were made, chart-topping songs were recorded and books that got intellectuals talking hit the shelves.

But today, in 2024, Riyadh has started to seize that mantle and the Kingdom is now at the forefront of shaping the region’s culture.

Yours is a country of 29 million people, two thirds of which are under 30, and it is clear you recognise the immense power that culture, sport and tourism have to drive up people’s quality of life at home, and to bolster soft power abroad.

The Ministry for Tourism, Ministry for Culture and Ministry for Sport, as well as the General Entertainment Authority, have combined to broaden and diversify your cultural offering.

To draw in some of the biggest names in sports like boxing, golf and football to play in your leagues and entertain millions, to expand and grow your sectors from film and TV to tourism, design and music, and to create countless new opportunities with events from Riyadh Design Week and Riyadh Soundstorm to Comic Book Festivals and the Red Sea International Film Festival.

And I know the level of ambition is sky high, backing 100 new films, commissioning 26 new museums, increasing the contribution of the Creative Industries GDP to 3%, generating $20 billion in revenue and creating over 100,000 jobs - and all by 2030.

We are already seeing the transformation in regions like AlUla - an area synonymous with heritage, as the Kingdom’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

And a place awash with sand dunes, desert oases and ancient ruins that date as far back as the Neolithic period of the Stone Age - become centrepieces of your tourism and creative industries, with major investments to build state-of-the-art film, music and recording facilities.

And those investments are already paying off, with the big Gerard Butler film Kandahar becoming the first big budget US production to be shot solely in Saudi Arabia, and mainly in AlUla.

That film is a sign of what is to come. The starting gun for what is certain to be a huge number of films and TV shot, directed, produced and edited in Saudi Arabia in the coming years.

And this is all part of why I believe the Creative Industries are among the most exciting potential areas for further and deeper collaboration between our two great countries.

As UK Culture Secretary, Sport, Media and Tourism Secretary, I could not be prouder of our vibrant Creative Industries.

As far back as Shakespeare, culture has always been one of the defining parts of the British national character.

But today our great authors, our great playwrights, our great musicians and designers are not just enriching lives, they are driving our economy.

To put things into perspective, the GVA of our Creative Industries was £124.6bn in 2022 alone.

These Industries account for 2.4 million jobs in Britain and they grew faster than our whole economy between 2021 and 2022.

And obviously much of the credit for that phenomenal growth belongs to the extraordinary talent we have at our disposal.

But it is also the case that we, as a Government, have consistently recognised the power of these industries and sought to maximise its true potential, at every turn.

Tax reliefs.

Incentives to invest.

Support through the pandemic.

Support to bounce back from the pandemic.

And most recently a dedicated blueprint - our Creative Industries Vision - designed to realise the untapped potential of sectors like video games, VFX and grassroots music.

We have successfully created an environment where competition and talent is thriving.

And that’s why, from music and design to TV and film, we are now home to some of the most dynamic creative businesses in the world.

Today in 2024 companies are choosing to come and invest in our clusters of excellence, like video games in Leamington Spa, TV in Leeds and Birmingham, VFX in London.

And big studios want to establish and grow their footprint in the UK, with Disney, Netflix, Amazon and Apple making landmark investments into studios like Pinewood in Hertfordshire and Shinfield in Berkshire.

To put things in perspective, analysis by The Times last year showed within two years there will be more studio facilities and square footage of studio space in the UK than the whole of Los Angeles.

And a major factor in why companies are making those inward investments, is because they recognise the expertise and the skills we now have at our disposal, across the creative ecosystem.

Underneath the big name productions like Bond and Barbie, or the superstar musicians like Ed Sheeran and Dua Lipa, we have production teams who know how to scale up, to deliver first class productions and events and to take cottage industries and turn them into world-beaters.

To my mind, few countries are better placed than Britain to help support the Kingdom as you look to transform your economy. 

Building out and developing your Creative Industries, cementing your status as a major player in sports and expanding your reputation as a tourist destination.

And I know that these kinds of collaborations are already off the ground in some areas, like Esports - with British Esports and the Saudi Esports Federation committing last year to greater cooperation on education and cultural exchange.

And are seeing the beginnings of cultural and creative exchange, with the world renowned British composer and impresario, Andrew Lloyd Webber, recently taking Phantom of the Opera in Riyadh.

And a fortnight ago the British Council deepened its relationship with the Saudi Cinema Association at the 10th edition of the Saudi Festival - with the British Council showcasing a curated selection of UK short films and using the festival to give a platform for filmmakers to engage with Saudi Arabia audiences and forge meaningful connections.

And we have seen new connections between our museums, with the Science Museum Group and the Saudi Ministry of Culture Executive Programme having signed an agreement on a Museums Hub.

And with SOAS University launching a Postgraduate Diploma in Museum Studies, sponsored by the Museums Commission, and jointly awarded by SOAS and Effat University.

And most significantly of all, in tourism.

In 2022, the UK welcomed over 200,000 visitors from the Kingdom and Visit Britain’s latest forecast predicts 240,000 visits from Saudi Arabia this year.

And this is another area where you are investing in the fundamentals - building up the tourism infrastructure needed to make Saudi Arabia a magnet for visitors. Doing what is needed to increase the number of annual travellers to the Kingdom from 14 million to 60 million in the next five years.

This is an area where Britain has deep expertise, for example, in vocational training, and I know that members of our delegation will be well placed to speak to this during some of the planned sessions.

Yours is a Kingdom with a huge amount of heritage and I have no doubt that countless people will look to take the chance to come and see and experience that heritage.

To support you in that journey, I can confirm that Historic England and the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Culture are  actively exploring a new partnership to cooperate in the field of cultural heritage.

This exciting new programme of cooperation will bring benefits to both of our countries and could involve some of our leading heritage experts sharing knowledge and skills to support the preservation of cultural landmarks in the Kingdom.

All of this is why events and programmes like Futures are so important.

Bringing together Government and businesses with a common goal - to find new areas for partnerships and mutually beneficial opportunities to grow our relationship.

As Government Ministers and as senior leaders of industries, it is in our gift to welcome in a new era of investment, partnership and growth between our two countries.

I want to finish by paying tribute to our hosts Saudi Arabia who are among our oldest friends in this region.

We admire your young and vibrant people. We value your spirit of enterprise and ambition.

So I’d like to thank you all, once again, for being here and for being part of the Futures programme.

By being part of what we are doing here this week, each of you will be writing your own contribution to a new chapter in British-Saudi relations.

One defined by security and prosperity.

By cooperation and collaboration.

By the exchange of knowledge, ideas and investment.

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PRESSR: Britain’s national tourism agency VisitBritain and the Saudi Tourism Authority sign agreement to boost tourism

Britain’s national tourism agency VisitBritain and the Saudi Tourism Authority have today, 14 May, signed a Declaration of Intent, setting out areas of co-operation between Britain and Saudi Arabia to develop and grow tourism.

The Declaration, announced during GREAT FUTURES, a major trade expo being held in Riyadh by the UK Government’s GREAT campaign in partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Government, was officially signed by VisitBritain CEO Patricia Yates and the CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority Fahd Hamidaddin.

VisitBritain and the Saudi Tourism Authority will collaborate on sharing knowledge and expertise on both domestic and international tourism.

H.E. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Tourism Authority, said:

“This agreement offers enormous opportunities for Saudi Arabia and UK to boost tourism and underlines the close relationship between the two countries. We are proud to have hosted more than 165,000 friends from Britain between January and March this year and to have welcomed 100 million visitors in 2023.

“We are developing remarkable projects that celebrate our unique culture and heritage as part of our $800 billion (£640 billion) investment in the Saudi tourism industry, aiming for them to become as iconic as UK attractions like the Tower of London and Stonehenge, and we see limitless potential ahead to welcome visitors from Britain and around the world.”

UK Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said:

“Our tourism industry is an integral part of what makes Britain so great, from our breathtaking landscapes and coastlines, to the treasure trove of heritage and culture to be found in our towns, villages and cities - all backed by a brilliant, dedicated workforce.           

“We’re committed to helping the sector keep growing from strength to strength and I’m delighted that VisitBritain has signed this agreement so we can share the UK’s invaluable expertise on tourism and gain key insights from our Saudi partners."

VisitBritain CEO Patricia Yates said:

“Visiting the UK is easier than ever for Saudi nationals with the roll-out of the Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme and we are delighted to sign this Declaration with the Saudi Tourism Authority, collaborating to drive growth from tourism between our countries.

“Working with the Saudi Tourism Authority also builds on our wider engagement in Saudi Arabia, from our ongoing work with the travel trade to sell British destinations to our GREAT Britain marketing campaigns to inspire more Saudis to choose Britain for their next visit. We look forward to working with the Saudi Tourism Authority to boost our competitive tourism offer, bringing the best of Britain to Saudi visitors and harnessing the timely and valuable opportunities for growth.”

The signing of the Declaration of Intent was held as part of VisitBritain’s wider programme during GREAT FUTURES  including its Destination Showcase networking event with trade from Saudi Arabia, promoting British destinations and the latest tourism products and experiences on offer, broadening travel itineraries so Saudi visitors explore more of Britain’s nations and regions.

VisitBritain is also hosting and taking part in panel and roundtable discussions with Saudi counterparts at GREAT FUTURES, sharing insights and experience on topics ranging from promoting a country globally to developing destinations to spread growth from tourism. 

To inspire more Saudi visitors to book a trip to Britain, VisitBritain has recently rolled out the latest phase of its GREAT Britain marketing campaign in Saudi Arabia, showcasing the exciting experiences and destinations across Britain’s countryside, coast and vibrant cities. The advertising campaign ‘Spilling the Tea on GREAT Britain’ drives consumers to VisitBritain’s new Arabic website, inspiring visitors from the Kingdom to plan their travel to Britain in 2024 and signposting to the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme for Saudi nationals. 

VisitBritain is also working with partners in market including online travel marketplace Wego to convert the interest to visit Britain into bookings now.

Saudi Arabia is a very important visitor market for the UK. VisitBritain’s latest forecast predicts 240,000 visits from Saudi Arabia to the UK this year, up 9% on 2019. It is forecasting that visitors from Saudi Arabia will spend £752 million on their trips to the UK this year, up 20% on 2019.

ABOUT GREAT FUTURES

GREAT FUTURES is a major business, tourism and cultural expo being held by the UK Government’s GREAT Britain and Northern Ireland campaign in partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Government from 14-15 May in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event launches a year-long campaign to drive business engagement between the UK and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

For press inquiries, please contact:

Mirna Tamimi

Communications Manager, GCC

Email: [email protected]

Media website:

https://www.visitbritain.org/news-and-media

https://www.visitbritain.com/gb/en/media

About VisitBritain

VisitBritain is the British Tourist Authority (BTA), operating under the brand names VisitBritain and VisitEngland. As the national tourism agency, VisitBritain works to raise Britain’s profile, increase the volume and value of tourism exports and develop England’s visitor economy, working with organisations of all sizes and specialities.

VisitBritain is funded by the UK Government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and function as a non-departmental public body as established in the Development of Tourism Act 1969.

VisitBritain’s role is to deliver growth for the visitor economy, inspiring visitors to explore Britain now through tourism and events.

Collectively, VisitBritain is a trusted advisor to industry and to Government on the visitor economy, providing research and insights.

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Watch CBS News

Prince Harry loses legal bid to regain special police protection in U.K., even at his own expense

By Emmet Lyons

Updated on: May 23, 2023 / 12:53 PM EDT / CBS News

London — Prince Harry has lost a bid to bring a legal challenge against the U.K. government over its refusal to allow him to pay privately for personal police protection for himself and his family when the estranged royals visit Britain.

Harry and his wife Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, gave up their roles as senior "working" members of the royal family in 2020, soon after which they settled in California. That year, the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (RAVEC), made up of officials from the government, London's Metropolitan Police Service and the royal household, decided the Sussexes no longer qualified for special police protection in the U.K.

Harry had argued through his lawyers at Britain's High Court that a formal judicial review process should assess the government's decision to refuse his offer to have the personal protection order restored at his expense.

"RAVEC has exceeded its authority, its power, because it doesn't have the power to make this decision in the first place," Harry's lawyers told the court, according to CBS News' partner network BBC News.

In a written judgment on Tuesday, however, High Court Justice Martin Chamberlain denied Harry permission to bring a judicial review over RAVEC's decision, describing the committee's actions as "narrowly confined to the protective security services that fall within its remit."  

Harry's legal team had argued in court that there were provisions in U.K. law that allowed for private payment for "special police services," and as such, "payment for policing is not inconsistent with the public interest or public confidence in the Metropolitan Police Service," according to the BBC.

In his ruling, Chamberlain also rejected that argument, saying the security services Harry was seeking were "different in kind from the police services provided at (for example) sporting or entertainment events, because they involve the deployment of highly trained specialist officers, of whom there are a limited number, and who are required to put themselves in harm's way to protect their principals."

"RAVEC's reasoning was that there are policy reasons why those services should not be made available for payment, even though others are. I can detect nothing that is arguably irrational in that reasoning," Chamberlain wrote.

While the Duke of Sussex has lost his bid to legally challenge RAVEC's decision on whether he can pay personally for police protection, there remains a separate, ongoing legal case about whether the prince should have his state security restored. Prince Harry was granted permission from the courts to proceed with that case and it is expected to come to trial, but the timing remains unclear.

The cases about his personal protection when he visits Britain are just two of the legal battles Prince Harry is currently fighting.

The duke is also part of a small group of celebrities alleging unlawful information gathering by Britain's tabloid press. Harry and Meghan have filed at least seven lawsuits against U.S. and U.K. media outlets since 2019, according to the U.K.'s Sky News.

• Prince Harry Duke of Sussex
• Meghan Duchess of Sussex
• United Kingdom

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