If you’re planning a trip to explore the rich history and culture of the United Kingdom, our Travelex Travel Guide is packed with everything you need to know.
Whether you’re a history buff (the British Museum), a Beatles die-hard (Abbey Road) or a sports nut (Wembley Stadium), you’ll never find yourself bored in London. The capital of England is a must-visit destination with its rich history, vibrant nightlife, world-class restaurants, and excellent shopping.
The Scottish capital is a city steeped in history, with its medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town. Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city, is a major attraction, as well as the Royal Mile, which is home to many historic landmarks and museums. Fans of Harry Potter will also be spoilt for choice of iconic locations from cafes where JK Rowling penned some of her fiction, quirky Harry Potter merch shops, or an excursion on the Hogwarts Express (the Jacobite Steam Train).
One of the oldest World Heritage sites, the mysterious Stonehenge dates back more than 4,500 years. The prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England, attracts visitors from all over the globe, marveling at the ingenuity of those who created it. From the awe-inspiring Stone Circle to the Neolithic village, you’ll be amazed by the history and achievements of the prehistoric people.
This historic city located in Somerset England is best known for and named after its Roman Baths. Designed for public bathing, the well-preserved baths were built upon natural hot springs, based on the practice of moving through heated rooms before enjoying a cold plunge at the end. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is also popular for its Georgian architecture, Roman temples, and many museums and galleries.
The capital city of Wales is one of the best places to sample everything the country has to offer. Despite being much smaller than England and Scotland, Wales has plenty to get excited about. In Cardiff’s city centre, you’ll find Cardiff Castle, built on the ruins of an Ancient Roman fort. From there, you’ll be able to explore the city’s museums, buzzing shopping district, and rising foodie scene. We recommend hiring a bike to explore Cardiff Bay from a different viewpoint.
Northern Ireland’s capital is fast becoming a must-see destination for visitors to the UK. With numerous historic attractions including Belfast’s City Hall, St George’s Market, and the Shankill Road murals, it’s not hard to see why. Infamously, Belfast was the birthplace of the RMS Titanic and you’ll find the world’s largest Titanic visitor attraction in the city’s Titanic Quarter. If you prefer natural wonders, the Giant’s Causeway will take your breath away and is also a popular destination for Game of Thrones fans.
The list of iconic landmarks in England’s capital is seemingly endless. From the Royal sites including Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, to the historic Tower Bridge, London Eye and ‘Big Ben’, and the awe-inspiring structures such as The Shard and The Gherkin, you’ll be hard-pressed trying to select just a few spots to visit.
The Lake District is England's largest National Park, boasting breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, and an abundance of outdoor activities. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream with hikes and guided walks for all skill levels. You’ll enjoy learning about the historic literary associations while trekking across rugged mountains with panoramic views of glacial lakes.
A distinctive location with a fascinating story, Loch Ness is a natural beauty with gorgeous wildlife, breathtaking greenery, and of course the 36km loch. If you’re stopping in town to catch a glimpse of Nessie, you can hire a bike to cycle the Loch Ness 360 trail, drop into one of the local pubs, or take a dip in the loch itself!
For many in the UK, attending their favourite team’s weekend match is akin to attending church. The sport has a long and rich history, with the first recorded game taking place in the UK in the 19th Century.
As one of the most-watched sports leagues in the world, catching a live English Premier League match is an experience like no other. Regardless of whether you watch one of the top-tier clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, or Manchester United, or one of the teams fighting against relegation, the passion and pride of the fans will blow your mind.
Architecture lovers will be in heaven in the UK, with a rich history that spans centuries. From medieval castles to modern skyscrapers, the British architectural scene exhibits inspiration from the Gothic era, Roman and Georgian architecture, and uniquely British innovation in its more modern designs.