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Top Attractions in England |
Lake District
The Lake District is one of England’s most beautiful regions,
inspiring the great works of Wordsworth and holding generations of
tourists in its thrall. The lakes are set among the dramatic
Cumbrian Mountains and the region is dotted with attractive towns
and pleasant dales. Who knows? The romance and beauty of one of
England’s most famous regions could inspire you to pen some
poetry!
Website: Lake District
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace has been the official London residence of
English royalty since 1837. The Palace stands in around 40 acres of
garden and while the west facade of the palace building remains
virtually as its architect Nash designed it, the east side facing
the garden was added in 1847 and entirely replaced in 1913. Visit
the Throne Room, Music Room, State Dining Room as well as the many
beautifully decorated apartments.
Website: Buckingham Palace
The Tower of London and the Crown Jewels
The Tower of London has been home to every Monarch from William
the Conqueror (11th Century) to Henry the VIII (16th Century). It
has also been the site of the Royal mint, the Royal Menagerie and
the Royal Observatory. The Tower of London is infamous for its
prison and for having been the scene of countless executions,
including that of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII. Visit the
Bloody Tower where the young prince Edward V and his brother were
imprisoned on their uncles’ orders. Sir Walter Raleigh was also
imprisoned here from 1603 until 1616. Lay your head on the
executioner’s block and try and imagine what it must have been like
to be about to literally lose your head!
Website: Tower of London
Stonehenge Stonehenge is the most important prehistoric monument in England.
There are many theories as to the purpose of Stonehenge ranging from
a druid temple for sun worship to a burial ground and even an
astronomical calendar. Many of the stones were transported there
with considerable effort from a great distance away. This was a
truly remarkable achievement considering it dates from 3100- 2300
BC.
Website: Stonehenge
Alton Towers
Alton Towers is England’s most popular theme
park with rides and attractions for every member of the family.
The Towers date back to the Victorian period and were designed
by Augustus Welby Pugin. Take a break from the thrills by boating on
the lake, taking an aerial cable car ride or a walk in the gardens.
Website: Alton Towers
Roman Baths and Pump Room, Bath
Archaeological excavations have indicated that human use of the
hot mineral springs at Bath date back at least 10,000 years. In 65
AD the Romans developed a complex of baths and a temple to the
goddess Sulis Minerva at the springs. Bath became the playground of
the wealthy British aristocracy in the 18th century. They
commissioned architects to design elegant Palladian terraced housing
and the city’s stylish crescents and squares. The Roman Baths Museum
and the Pump Room are simply unmissable. The Great Bath features
Roman paving and a lead base and is bordered by 19th century
arcading. Underground passageways lead you to the remains of the
smaller baths and heating systems. The museum traces the history of
the baths and showcases objects discovered during excavations. The
stately 18th century Pump Room is part of the museum. A fountain
dispenses spa water which can be bought in the restaurant.
Website: Roman Baths and Pump Room, Bath
York
The picturesque medieval city of York was second only to London
in importance up until the Industrial Revolution. The city, whose
13th century walls are one of the best surviving medieval
fortifications in Europe, played a key role in English history. Its
magnificent cathedral, medieval streets, grand houses and attractive
riverside pubs make it an ideal spot for getting away from it
all.
Website: York
Stratford-upon-Avon
Steeped in culture and history and set in the
beautiful Warwickshire countryside, Stratford-upon-Avon was the birthplace
of the greatest playwright ever known – William Shakespeare. Visit
the five houses connected with William Shakespeare and his family.
Open all year round, these sixteenth-century houses feature rare
period furnishings and domestic items. Aspects of Tudor life are
on display, all set in attractive gardens and grounds. When
all Shakespeared out, you can visit the Butterfly Farm, the Teddy
Bear Museum and the Stratford Brass Rubbing Centre.
Website: Stratfod-upon-Avon
Windsor Castle
Windsor
Castle is one of the Queen's official residences and has been
in continuous use for over 900 years. It was originally built for
William the Conqueror to guard the approach to London. The State Apartments
house excellent works of art including masterpieces by Rembrandt,
Rubens, Holbein and Van Dyck as well as magnificent French
and English furniture and porcelain. The State Apartments also
contain Queen Mary's Dolls' House. It is a 1:12 scale working
model complete with furniture, decorations, running water and
electricity.
Website: Windsor Castle
London
Check out our guide to the top ten attractions in
London.
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