The United Kingdom

The number of places to visit in the United Kingdom is simply overwhelming, as there is something for everyone. From attractions with historical or literary importance, to castles, churches and breathtaking scenery, the United Kingdom is a great place for any traveler.

Most people start in England, finding London a convenient place to fly to. London has been the seat of British government for about 1000 years, so it is rich in history. Check out the Houses of Parliament, with Big Ben nearby, or the Tower of London, where unfortunate people who displeased the sovereign were imprisoned, some never again to see the light of day. The British Museum has an impressive collection from all over the world, and Madame Tussaud’s waxworks museum presents history in a completely different manner. Add to this some great theater and shopping, and you’ll have no trouble staying busy in London. 

Away from the city, there are a wide variety of places to visit in England. A short day trip from London is the magnificent Windsor Castle. Stonehenge, the 5000 year old circle of stones located on Salisbury Plain is a monument from the past not to be missed. 

A few other cities worth visiting in England are Canterbury, home of the famous cathedral, Oxford and Cambridge, home to their respective universities, Stratford-on-Avon, home of Shakespeare, and Bath, home to Roman baths. If you are more interested in the out-of-doors, the Lake District offers some of England’s most beautiful scenery.

Further north lies Scotland, where the terrain becomes more rugged and takes on a wild kind of beauty. If you are looking for some great hiking and camping, Scotland is the places for you. Edinburgh, the capital, has a number of famous sights, including the castle that has stood since the 12th century and where Mary, Queen of Scots once lived. A place in Scotland you’ll surely want to visit is Loch Ness, where the elusive monster swims. Or stop by Elgin, to see the Biblical garden, famous because it contains all the plants the Bible mentions.

Wales has a charm of its own, with its mountainous terrain and stunning castles which some consider to be the best in the British Isles. Beaumaris, Conwy, Cardiff, and Harlech are some of the most well known. Snowdonia National Park is an exceptionally beautiful recreational area. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can go sea kayaking or surfing off the Pembrokeshire coast.

The most famous attraction in Northern Ireland is the Giant’s Causeway, made up of 40,000 black columns rising from the sea. In Belfast you can visit the Ulster Museum with a fascinating exhibit about the troubled years Northern Ireland has endures, as well as exhibits of antiquities, classic and modern art, and fashion. Also in Belfast are the Belfast Murals, which show much of the history of the city and Northern Ireland.