Famous English landmarks. Sights of Great Britain. Palace of Westminster and Big Ben
One of the most influential and interesting European countries is Great Britain, located on an island in the northwest of continental Europe. The state has a rich history of development, characterized by tragic, solemn and other events. All this leaves an imprint on the culture, and therefore there are many interesting objects here that attract tourists from different parts of the planet. To make your trip around this country comfortable, you should familiarize yourself with the location of attractions and vacation features in advance.
Briefly about Great Britain
Great Britain is located in the north-west of Eurasia and is one of the largest island states in the European part of the world. The country's form of government is called a parliamentary monarchy, and the current monarch is Queen Elizabeth II.
Great Britain is famous for its architecture and historyElizabeth II ascended the throne in 1952 and is currently the longest-reigning monarch in the history of the United Kingdom.
The country has an oceanic temperate climate with big amount precipitation in the form of rain throughout the year. The air temperature varies depending on the season. In winter, the maximum is -12 °C, and in summer the air warms up to a maximum of +35 °C. Such conditions are optimal for active, cultural and other types of tourism.
Full country name
The name "Great Britain" is widely used in everyday speech by citizens different countries, as well as in advertising, media and other sources. Full form - The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. This combination looks cumbersome and inconvenient and is used only in scientific, political and other official circumstances. The country is often called the United Kingdom (The UK), which is also an abbreviated form.
Capital and geography
The capital of the state is London. It covers an area of 1706.8 km2 and has a population of 8,538,689 people. The settlement is located in the south-eastern part of the island, near the North Sea, in the valley of the Thames River mouth. The city is divided into 33 administrative districts.
Well developed in London transport network: there are three ring car roads, bus service, underground and light metro, tram routes, and water transport and city trains are also used. The infrastructure is well developed in all areas, so tourists can easily get from one part of the city to another.
By the way, the London underground itself is a kind of monument, since this subway is the oldest in the world. Its first line was opened in 1863. Due to the shape of the deep tunnels, Londoners nicknamed this type of transport “The Tube”.
The capital also has sports stadiums, museums and libraries, theaters, many monuments and historical buildings built in past centuries.
The country is divided into 4 administrative and political parts: Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and England. They are located on the island of Great Britain and the northern part of the neighboring island.
The UK's only land border divides Northern Ireland, which is part of the kingdom, and the independent Republic of Ireland.
The territory of this state also includes small archipelagos: for example, the Shetland and Orkney Islands, Arran and White.
UK is island state South-westerly winds contribute to cloudy weather in the western part of the islands, where it falls most of precipitation. Snow melts quickly in winter, so the climate here is quite mild.
The country has many lakes, rivers, mountainous and lowland areas. One of the famous places is fresh lake Loch Ness, considered the largest in the British Isles: its area is 388 km 2. On south coast The islands of Great Britain have the English Channel Eurotunnel connecting this country with the continent. Its length is 50 km, of which 38 km lie under water.
Loch Ness is considered the largest in the territory British Isles Official language in the country
The state is modern and well developed. Local residents speak English language, which is official in the country and has international status. Therefore, tourists can communicate in this language with all employees of hotels, airports, shops and other organizations. For travelers without knowledge of English, tours with a guide-translator are best suited.
One of the most famous English dialects is Cockney - a simplified speech based on incorrect pronunciation and rhyming phrases, common in London mainly in the middle and lower strata of the population.
Currency in UK
Throughout the country, payments are made in pounds sterling. If necessary, in shops, hotels and other establishments you can pay with a plastic card. by bank card international payment systems. Before traveling, you should prepare a small amount in pounds sterling or exchange cash at special points or banks upon arrival in the country.
Queen Elizabeth II appears on English banknotes Religion in the country
There is freedom of religion in the United Kingdom. At the same time, about 71.6% of the population professes Christianity, Islam is supported by 2.7%, and Hinduism is supported by 1% of the population. The number of atheists is 15.5%. The country has a church with state status - the Church of England. Among all Christian denominations, the largest are Anglicans, Catholics, Presbyterians, and Pentecostals.
Time
The UK is in the time zone UTC±00:00, and Moscow is in UTC+03:00. So the time difference European country and the Russian capital is +3 hours.
The best regions and cities for tourism
There are several cities and regions in Great Britain that are in demand among tourists. These places are distinguished by natural, historical and architectural attractions, and optimal conditions for travel. There is a comfortable climate here, developed infrastructure and there are all the opportunities for an interesting holiday.
While traveling around the country, you should pay attention to the following cities:
The sights of London look very beautiful in the evening
The city of Edinburgh has a cozy atmosphere and many beautiful buildings
Bristol has a well-maintained embankment, which is a pleasure to walk along.
Liverpool is famous not only for its sights related to the history of the Beatles, but also for its architectural monuments
In the Lake District, tourists are attracted by the beauty of nature
The architecture of buildings in Great Britain is distinguished by its majesty and solidity.
Rowing competitions are often held among Cambridge students
Things to do on the English coast aquatic species sports and active recreationYou can take a scenic walk anywhere in the country, because in the UK beautiful nature and unusual landscapes. In cities, tourists may be interested in buildings of majestic architecture. Thus, the UK is a sought-after destination for comfortable travel and active tourism.
Video: “Heads and Tails” in London
Famous UK landmarks
The country is known for a large number of historical, cultural and architectural attractions. In large cities, tourists will also find other entertainment, such as concerts and parties in nightclubs, so people with different interests can relax here.
England is rich in historical and architectural sites, the most famous of which are the following:
Stonehenge looks unusual and mysterious from above
The domes of the Garden of Eden give the landscape a beautiful and fantastic look
Tower Castle is a famous and beautiful landmark of England
The Palace of Westminster in London is made in the neo-Gothic style
The clock tower adorns the Palace of Westminster
The interior of the Sherlock Holmes Museum includes many interesting details
All the figures in Madame Tussauds are very realisticThere are few historical attractions in Scotland, but there are bright and unusual natural sites. Of the ancient buildings, it is worth noting the castle, located on a rock located in the center of Edinburgh. The Royal Mile leads here, at the other end of which stands Holyrood Palace, which is official residence British monarchs in Scotland. These sites are easy to visit while exploring Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Castle is located on a high cliff Among the natural sites of Scotland, it is worth noting the island of Staffa, on the west coast of which Fingal's Cave is located. This depression is washed out in the rock sea water and has a length of 113 m. Tourists can get inside the cave only along a narrow path near the water's edge. The entrance here is too narrow for boats. This place was once visited by Walter Scott, Jules Verne and others famous people. The surrounding area is picturesque, so many travelers and lovers often come here active hikes.
Fingal's Cave attracts lovers of active travel In Scotland, in the region of Aberdeenshire, there is medieval castle Dram. It is owned by the National Trust for Scotland and can be visited throughout the summer. The castle was built in the 13th century and modified during the Victorian era. During reconstruction in 2013, secret passages and hidden rooms were discovered here. This building is interesting for its architecture, mysterious atmosphere and interiors from the Middle Ages.
Drum Castle is small in size and a large number of secret passages When traveling around Wales, it is worth visiting the medieval village of Cosmeston. This place is a museum under open air: All buildings located on the territory have been reconstructed based on information obtained as a result of archaeological excavations. The facility is located near the city of Cardiff, which is the capital of Wales. The remains of buildings found here belong to XIV century, while there is no data on the existence of this village after the Middle Ages. There is a hypothesis that the inhabitants of this settlement died during the plague in the 1340s.
The atmosphere of an ancient settlement has been recreated in the village of Cosmeston In Wales, tourists should also look at the Menai suspension bridge, which connects the island of Anglesey with the main territory of Wales.
Manorbeer Castle, located in Pembrokeshire, attracts tourists with its ancient architecture and beautiful surrounding landscapes. It was built more than 8 centuries ago and belonged to various aristocratic families. Several films were filmed here, and now it is visited annually by tourists from different countries.
Manorbier Castle is located in a flat area without dense vegetation There are many museums throughout the UK, because the culture and history of the country is diverse and full of different events. Travelers should visit the following places:
In the country, historical landmarks are located in the vicinity like major cities, so small settlements. Tourists should plan a travel itinerary that covers at least 2 settlements. This will allow you to better know the culture of the people and have a good rest.
Country in different seasons
Despite the large amount of rainfall throughout the year, holidays in the UK in the summer are in demand among travelers from different countries. During the warm season there are interesting sightseeing tours, and hotel rooms should be booked in advance, which will save your budget. From July to the end of August you can swim in the sea and lakes on the southern coast of the island. Water sports, trekking, picnics on the shores of lakes, trips to museums and shopping are also appropriate.
In summer there are fountains in the palace parks in autumn average temperature air does not exceed +18 °C, but tourists can easily take walks around cities, active excursions along valleys with lakes or visit ancient castles. In November, the weather deteriorates greatly, showers, hurricane winds and other disasters are possible. Therefore, it is optimal to plan in the fall short trip with a tour of the main attractions of the country.
There are no severe frosts in the UK in winter. During the day the air temperature is above zero, but at night it can drop to negative values. Fog often occurs in cities and near bodies of water, sometimes so thick that movement can be difficult. Therefore, in winter, many travelers limit themselves to getting to know the country’s culture and visiting restaurants with traditional cuisine.
The streets of UK cities are beautifully decorated for Christmas At the beginning of spring there is practically no precipitation. The tourist season begins in May. During this time, travelers visit National parks, carry out excursions to ancient sights. There are also festivals and celebrations in May to mark the start of summer where you can have fun.
Short travel options
It's impossible to see all the main attractions in one day in the UK, but it's worth walking around the city where you're staying. During such a walk, for example, in London, many tourists visit restaurants with local cuisine, as well as palaces and museums of the city. During the period of Christmas or off-season discounts, shopping is optimal, during which you can purchase symbolic souvenirs, clothes and other things.
If your stay in the country lasts about three days, then it’s worth visiting Scotland during this time, where it’s unusual beautiful landscapes, cozy small villages and cities. The Lake District nature reserve is optimal for such a trip, but you can also see the cities of England. Traveling by ferry will allow you to appreciate the picturesque embankments of many cities.
England has many picturesque towns and cozy villages During 5 or 7 days of rest you can visit medical and health resorts. The county of Hampshire, located on the south coast of the island, has several such places. For example, the city of Bath is famous for its Roman baths, and there are springs in the city of Buxton. Mineral water Leamington and Cheltenham also attract travellers. In a week you can tour several cities, islands and lakes of the country.
Entertainment for children
In the UK there is a lot of entertainment for children of different ages and with any interests. When traveling with a child, it is worth considering the most popular places, where you can have a good rest with the whole family, learn a lot of new things and look at unique objects. The following attractions are optimal for these purposes:
– one of the main reasons to visit this attractive country. After all, England is the oldest of the monarchical states in Europe with a special culture, style, history and spirit of the aristocracy. In addition to an incomparable culture and many values, this state is not deprived of picturesque nature. England is also famous throughout the world for its literature, interior design delights, beautiful architectural sights and a way of life that is not found anywhere else. Having visited the Kingdom, you involuntarily become familiar with its splendor and become imbued with the unique atmosphere that reigns there. Therefore, today we present to you 19 of the best must-see attractions in England.
1. Big Ben
Address:Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, England
England's landmarks, such as the world-famous Big Ben clock tower, are the country's hallmark. This landmark has become a symbol of London, accompanying the city on all brochures and postcards. Big Ben is currently on the list of the largest clocks in the world. From the foot of the tower there is a spiral staircase that leads up to the platform with the bell. It is not possible to get inside the tower for security reasons, but just the view from the street will bring great pleasure.
2. British Museum in London
Address:Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG, England
The British Museum in London is one of the largest museums in the world. It is also one of the most visited cultural attractions in the UK and is considered a major historical museum countries. The huge exposition of the building will appeal to lovers of history and archeology. A special feature of this museum is its versatility: it houses cultural treasures from many countries of the world, each of which has its own halls. What’s especially pleasing is the free entry for visitors.
3. Sherlock Holmes Museum in London
Address:221b Baker St, London NW1 6XE, England
The Sherlock Holmes Museum was amazing. It is notable for the fact that it arose thanks to the world-famous work of Arthur Conan Doyle. The museum is located on the same street as the house of the famous detective from the pages of the story. This is the case when a literary work is projected into reality. In the house-museum you can walk around the detective’s accurately reproduced rooms and take a photo as a souvenir.
Address: London EC3N 4AB, England
Erected in the second half of the 11th century, the Tower is today a symbolic landmark of England. The history of this beautiful fortress is very rich and varied. The Tower was a prison, an arsenal, a mint and even a zoo. The list of “roles” of this ancient fortress can be continued for a long time. Today, the Tower has become one of the most visited attractions in the world.
Address:Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, England
No less famous to the world and - hotter tourist place and symbol of the capital of England. The bridge is both a suspension bridge and a drawbridge. The stairs in the towers lead to the upper gallery, which offers a magnificent view of the surrounding area. The gallery also houses a museum, open to the public every day. It is especially worth visiting the bridge at night, when it is illuminated by evening lights - it is a truly mesmerizing sight!
6. Trafalgar Square
Address:Trafalgar Square, Westminster, London WC2N 5DN, England
Quite an important landmark for London is Trafalgar Square. Its importance is associated with the historical victory of the English fleet at Trafalgar in 1805. It is this battle that is immortalized in the name of the attraction. Here in 1945, Churchill informed London of the end of the Second World War. Today Trafalgar Square is permanent place holding rallies, folk festivals and other public events.
Address: London SW1A 1AA, England
Without a doubt, one of the most famous landmarks in the Kingdom of England is Buckingham Palace, which attracts great amount visitors. Now it serves as the London residence of the Queen of Great Britain. In terms of its infrastructure, the palace resembles Not Big city OK. The doors of Buckingham Palace are open to tourists from August to September - the time when the Queen leaves the residence. You can take the luxury and beauty of the palace with you - there is a store with exact copies of palace items.
8. Hyde Park
Hyde Park is considered one of the most popular parks in London. This is very beautiful place with a captivating atmosphere: in summer the park is decorated with many flowering plants. Art exhibitions are held here, and there is a lake in which swimming is allowed. Those who want to speak out about painful issues or voice their thoughts are invited to the stage of the Speakers' Corner. In Hyde Park you are allowed to walk barefoot and lie on the lawns - this is beautiful place in the bustling capital of England to relax your soul and body.
Address:Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP, England
Located opposite Hyde Park, the Albert Hall is a symbol of great love Queen Victoria of England to her late husband Albert. She decided to complete the construction of the complex because her husband considered it a very important project. Exhibitions at the Albert Hall are held quite rarely, but concerts are the opposite: almost every day. If you plan to attend one of the performances, it is better to purchase tickets in advance.
Address:21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT, England
The famous landmark of London, the Globe Theater is already the third building. The first two were destroyed: one by fire, the second by the Puritans. The modern theater is as similar as possible to the original building, erected in 1599. There is absolutely no artificial lighting here, which is why performances are held only during daylight hours. Performances at the Globe Theater run from late April to mid-autumn.
11. Madame Tussauds
Address:Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5LR, England
Madame Tussauds, like most of England's famous attractions, is located in the capital. This is the world's most famous and largest museum of wax figures that can move, talk and react to the actions of visitors. You are allowed to take pictures with and touch the exhibits, despite the fact that some of them have already been completely squeezed by tourists. At Madame Tussauds, everyone will find their idol from the field of cinema, music or politics.
12. York Minster
Address:Deangate, York YO1 7HH, England
There are also beautiful religious sites in England. One of them is the second largest in northern Europe, the York Cathedral. This temple is also famous for its huge stained glass windows. Catholic services held in the cathedral will give visitors an incredible experience. Construction of the temple began in the first half of the 13th century and lasted for a little over two centuries. In the first half of the 15th century, the construction of the cathedral was completed, but over many centuries it suffered from fires more than once. Almost ten years ago, its restoration was completed, and the doors of the beautiful cathedral are again open to visitors.
Address: Cathedral House, 11 The Precincts, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2EH, England
The leading role among Anglican shrines in England is occupied by the beautiful Canterbury Cathedral. This ancient temple was built in 603 in the original Gothic style. But it is worth noting that the modern facade of the temple is no longer similar to the original one - after the fire of 1174, the shrine was restored, but in a different guise. Canterbury Cathedral has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
14. Beatles Museum
Address:Britannia Vaults, Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD, England
The world-famous Beatles, already immortalized in history, is dedicated to the museum of the same name in Liverpool. This is an exceptional destination in England for fans of this musical group! The ticket is valid for two days, so you can leisurely explore all the exhibitions. The museum is also designed for people with disabilities, and at least half of the staff have proper training. When visiting the Beatles Museum, you can use the services of an audio guide, including one in Russian.
Sherwood Forest - perfect place to visit among natural attractions in England. Although it doesn’t look much like Robin Hood’s hideout, many tourists still come here to stroll through the famous reserve. The park area, which is the current Sherwood, is popular both among foreign tourists and the British themselves. The centuries-old oak tree, considered a miracle, has become an important “resident” of the forest. Visitors can purchase tree seedlings grown in Sherwood Forest.
The ancient heritage of England is the stones of Stonehenge, which have existed for about five thousand years. This mysterious building of megaliths is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. There are many versions of the origin of this ancient landmark, but so far these are only assumptions and hypotheses, and there are no exact facts that lift the veil of the appearance of Stonehenge. Of course, walking between the stones is not allowed, but some guides make concessions.
17. Speke Hall in Liverpool
Address: The Walk, Liverpool L24 1XD, England
One of the oldest buildings in Liverpool is Speke Hall. The peculiarity of this attraction is its pristine nature, which has survived to this day. The house was built in the middle of the 16th century, it was completed over another fifty years, and after that Speke Hall remained unchanged for 400 years. All this time, noble families of England lived in it, but now it receives many tourists. Speke Hall is now exactly as it was in the 16th century.
Address:Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL, England
Built in the 11th century, it has become a very popular English attraction among tourists. The castle is located very close to London. Visitors will not only enjoy a tour of the property, but also many interesting activities, including playing golf, a performance of trained birds of prey called falconry, a walk through a living labyrinth, and for children there is a medieval-style children's playground.
19. Rochester Castle
Address:Castle Hill, Rochester, Kent ME1 1SW, England
In the county of Kent, located in close proximity to London, there is beautiful castle Rochester. This landmark is the national pride of England. The castle was erected in order to deter aggressors and prevent an attack on London. I must say that the fortress coped with its task perfectly. Nowadays, the building is a tourist attraction. All five floors of the castle are open to the public.
The country headed by the queen is quite successful and rich. The British love their land and try with all their might to take care of their native land. Therefore, they live in abundance and prosperity. Tourists love to visit Great Britain, where a lot of historical past has been preserved. What attractions are interesting and significant for a traveler?
10 Trafalgar Square
This square was built on the site of former stables. The name commemorates a big event - the victory of England at the Battle of Trafalgar. The square is a kind of “zero kilometer” and gives rise to three streets. Citizens and tourists love to relax here. Always crowded and noisy.
9 Palace of Westminster
The name comes from the area of Westminster. On the banks of the River Thames is Westminster Hall, built almost a thousand years ago for sessions of the Supreme Court of England and crowned balls. In the 19th century, the Houses of Parliament were built and connected to Westminster Hall. In 1834, a fire destroyed the structure, leaving only the Jewel Tower and the hall. New Palace built on the same spot. It took 44 years to build the beautiful building called “Parliament”.
8 Winter Wonderland
A beautiful wonderland appears in Hyde Park in the run-up to Christmas. Here you will be in the arms of the Snow Queen, marvel at the talents of circus performers, enjoy the greatness and courage of strongmen, be horrified by the composure of performers of dangerous stunts, ride on Santa Claus's sleigh and see the dungeon of the gnomes. For children and adults, this is a great reason to have fun and relax.
7 British museum
For a long time there was a library in the museum, but when the number of books increased, it was moved to a separate building. The British Museum preserves the memory of two million years of human history, and its exhibits are often the subject of theft. Today, thanks to the Internet, you can walk through the museum visually without leaving your home. The museum often hosts exhibitions of contemporary artists.
6 Stonehenge
The most mysterious structure that took 1500 years to construct. It still remains a mystery how ancient people, without special equipment, placed huge boulders on top of each other. What was Stonehenge for? Anthropologists suggest that this place was a cemetery, a temple, the residence of a king, and an observatory. The more rumors there are, the more ridiculous each assumption becomes. Many of the stones came from the Preseli Mountains in Wales. Only the devil could move huge monoliths 250 km away. Therefore, most versions converge to the tricks of evil spirits.
5 Buckingham Palace
The statesman John Sheffield, who received the title of Duke of Buckingham in 1703, built a building for his residence in London. In 1820, the architect John Nash added three buildings that collectively represent Buckingham Palace. The beautiful building now houses members of the royal family and 800 staff. 350 hours go by simultaneously. A sentry looks after them and makes sure that the mechanisms work smoothly. For some time (from August to September) the palace is open to visitors. The Queen leaves the residence, and guests stroll happily through the majestic halls.
4 Thames
The main British river, 334 km long. Its flow and water level are constantly changing. For this reason, the embankment piers sometimes go under water and you need to find out about the tide before going out. Sports competitions and large entertainment events are held on the Thames. Constant movement - water buses, pleasure boats create an atmosphere of eternal bustle and anxiety. But this is only at first glance. Everything here is thought out and calculated. Water transport relieves congestion on the streets of London, helping local residents carry out their planned tasks.
3 Tower
The oldest building that keeps legends and secrets of the past. During the reign of Elizabeth I, animals were kept here. Instead of payment, visitors brought a cat or dog, which was sent to be devoured by the lions. Later, all the animals were moved to the zoo. Now the Tower is a protected museum. Jewels of the British Empire, worth a total of 20 billion pounds, are under reliable protection. Soldiers of the royal guard inspect the area every evening and hand over the keys to the gate to the next guard.
2 London Eye
This Ferris wheel was planned as a temporary structure (for only five years). Built at the beginning of the third millennium, it a short time loved by many. Who will allow the popular attraction to be demolished now? Restless architects, having lost the competitive selection, wanted to build a wheel. They found sponsors, signed all the necessary papers and entered into an agreement with the Japanese. The London Eye welcomed its first visitors in March 2000. Now it is the most visited place - more than 10,000 people a day.
1 Big Ben
The main attraction of England. Everyone thinks that Big Ben refers to the clock tower, but this is not true. Inside the tower there is a huge bell, weighing 13 tons. This is what they call him unusual name. The neo-Gothic style of the building appeared after the fire, when Charles Barry and the architect Pugin decided to restore the tower in 1834. Now the Big Ben clock accurately keeps time, and for the British they are a direct reflection of character: accuracy, reliability, confidence. Citizens are proud of the city and love to visit their favorite places.
Every country has attractions that are its calling card. Tourists visiting Famous places, enjoy the beauty, grandeur and try to understand the history and culture of the nation. Receiving new impressions, a person perceives the world differently, therefore, all national monuments of the past teach, educate and force us to reconsider life values in their own way.
Great Britain is a multifaceted country whose beauty is not limited to London alone. Even the smallest village deserves the attention of a traveler here. Today we have selected ten cities in the United Kingdom that every traveler should see at least once in their life!
1Edinburgh
The capital of Scotland is rightfully considered one of the most romantic cities in Great Britain. The ancient architecture will be able to captivate even the most seasoned traveler, and the local attractions will make you stay in the city longer than planned.
Where to go:
Visit National Museum Scotland, which displays more than eight thousand exhibits. Take a walk near the Balmoral Hotel with its large clock on the tower: it is considered one of the main attractions of the capital. And, of course, don’t forget to look at Princes Street - the main street of the city, where there are many boutiques and National Gallery Scotland.
Photo: valueapartments.co.uk
2
Brighton
Brighton is one of best resorts Great Britain, however, deserves to be visited not only in summer, but also in any other season. All year round The south coast of England is bustling with life, and long walks along the pier are a regular activity even in winter. Local restaurants and the clubs are not inferior even to London establishments, because in Brighton, it seems, holiday season never ends.
Where to go:
No traveler can ignore the royal seaside residence, because its design is definitely impressive. The building was built in the Indo-Saracenic style, and the interior combines Indian and Moorish motifs. Don't forget to also climb the thinnest tower in the world, .
Photo: bhmpics.com Cambridge
One of the oldest university centers in Europe, Cambridge is famous for its ancient colleges, centuries-old architecture and picturesque nature. Unlike its historical rival, Oxford, Cambridge has a calmer pace of life. Students here relax on the lawns between classes, and in the evenings sit in historic pubs. Everything in the city is imbued with the spirit of learning, because it is here that the city that gave the world about 100 Nobel laureates is located.
Where to go:
Stroll by King's College Chapel, one of the city's most iconic buildings, and visit the Trinity College Library, where you can find over 55,000 books, including manuscripts by Shakespeare and Newton. Don't forget to include the Fitzwilliam Museum, which was one of the first public art galleries in the UK. There you can see works by Rubens, Da Vinci, Rembrandt and Picasso. And finally, take a ride along the River Cam in the Becks area, because the trip will allow you to explore natural beauty and the city's architecture, including the famous wooden Mathematical Bridge, built in 1749.
Photo: shutterstock 4 York
More medieval city than York, you will not find in the whole of Northern England. It is a place of extraordinary historical and cultural richness. Here you want to spend hours wandering through the ancient narrow streets, woven into a web, in the center of which is the Gothic York Minster. Along with ancient architecture, there is also a place for modern establishments that are so necessary for every traveler: restaurants, cafes and pubs.
Where to go:
York Minster is number one on the list of attractions you should see in York. It is considered the largest medieval temple in all of Northern Europe and one of the most beautiful Gothic structures in the whole world. Visit the Yorkshire Museum, which houses over a million artifacts - some of which are over 500,000 years old. Among the most iconic are a 6th-century bust of Emperor Constantine, maps and models of Roman York, and skeletons of ancient animals. And, of course, don’t forget to stroll along The Shambles - a street with authentic houses and buildings, many of which were built back in the 14th century.
Photo: shutterstock 5 Glasgow
Scotland's largest city has developed rapidly over the past few decades, allowing it to become a modern metropolis with ancient cultural monuments. Glasgow is also rightfully considered the center of the arts in Scotland, as it hosts numerous music festivals and other events that attract guests from all over the world.
Where to go:
Connoisseurs of modern architecture cannot ignore the Museum of Transport, which displays history transport development Glasgow. And even if the museum exhibits are not particularly interesting to you, it is worth at least seeing the design of the building itself, designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid, which looks very futuristic. You can look at paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, Van Gogh and Dali at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which is the most visited in Scotland. And at the end of the cultural program, go to Royal Theater Glasgow to watch classic English drama.
Photo: eurohostels.co.uk 6 Nottingham
Located in the heart of Great Britain, Nottingham is largest city County of Nottinghamshire. It is surrounded by Sherwood Forest, famous for the legends of Robin Hood, and in the city itself there is a monument to this hero. Like many other British cities, Nottingham boasts a mixture of styles and eras, as you can see modern buildings next to authentic centuries-old buildings.
Where to go:
Perhaps the most popular attraction in the city is Nottingham Castle, the foundation of which was laid by William the Conqueror. This is where many of the Robin Hood legends took place. Don't forget to visit Wollaton Hall as it is one of the few remaining Renaissance palaces in England. And be sure to have a pint of beer at Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem - a pub that is fighting to be the oldest in England. The establishment claims that it was built in 1189.
Photo: shutterstock 7 Chester
One of the most visited cities by travelers, despite its small size, has managed to preserve ancient attractions that reflect its two-thousand-year history. It is located in the western part of Cheshire, famous for the fairy-tale character the Cheshire Cat, so you won’t be able to leave without souvenirs of a smiling cat. But the main gift that Chester will give you is, of course, its unique architecture.
Where to go:
Connoisseurs of ancient architecture will love Chester Cathedral, built many centuries ago. Check out your local zoo, even if animals aren't the main thing you were planning to see in the city, because Chester Zoo is considered one of the best in the world. Also be sure to take a stroll along Chester Rows, a street of half-timbered houses with protruding balconies that are considered one of the symbols of Chester.
Photo: room5.trivago.co.uk 8 Oxford
This English city, despite its ancient appearance, is completely imbued with youth spirit, because every year the best students from all over the world come here to get an education at. If you want to get closer to English traditions, Oxford will do it better than any other place. There is both ancient architecture and picturesque nature, And rich story. Oxford is definitely much more than just a college town.
Where to go:
Walk around the University of Oxford to see its college buildings. Christ Church, Merton College and Magdalene College boast beautiful buildings, which were built several centuries ago. It is also worth visiting the Bodleian Library, whose Radcliffe Rotunda is considered one of the city's hallmarks. Art lovers should definitely check out the Ashmolean Museum, which houses works by Michelangelo, Raphael and Da Vinci. And finally, go to one of the oldest pubs in Oxford - The Eagle and Child, where meetings of the Inklings literary club, of which Tolkien and Lewis were members, took place.
Photo: oboitut.com Liverpool
Despite its football fame, the Merseyside city is famous for many other things. Firstly, it is considered cultural capital Great Britain. And for good reason, because here is the largest number of museums and galleries outside of London. Secondly, it is called the capital of pop music, which gave the world the legendary group The Beatles. And thirdly, the most iconic landmark of the city - the port facilities - is included in the list World Heritage UNESCO.
Where to go:
Be sure to go and see the Albert Dock, built in the 19th century by Prince Albert. Afterwards, take a walk along Pier Head - the most spectacular and pompous part of the Liverpool port. And for a dose of art, go to Tate Liverpool, a branch of the London gallery. And the fact that in Liverpool you simply cannot ignore The Beatles Museum is probably not worth mentioning.
Photo: shutterstock 10 Manchester
Located in the north-west part of England, Manchester is considered one of the most popular cities to visit in the UK. It is called the city of the future, because every day new buildings are erected here and work is being done to improve the existing infrastructure. Nevertheless, there are also plenty of historical values in Manchester that would be interesting for tourists to see.
Where to go:
Visit Manchester Cathedral, a medieval Anglican church built in the mid-15th century, to marvel at its architecture. Take a stroll by the Royal Exchange Theater - an ancient Victorian building in the center of Manchester and considered one of its most iconic places. Art lovers should check out the local art gallery, where a large art collection is collected.
Photo: hero-and-leander.com
England is the oldest monarchical state in Europe with unique history, the spirit of the Middle Ages and aristocratic notes. Millions of tourists from all over the world come to this country, students of local universities will receive the best education in Europe, and some travelers come here in search of unique nature and unique views.
This wonderful country has left a big mark not only in classical literature, recognized throughout the world, but also in modern cinema. It is famous for its architectural sights and interior delights. Surely most of us have at least once read about the adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, who live on Baker Street, or the detective stories of Agatha Christie. And what about the mind-blowing comedy “Mr. Bean” with Rowan Atkinson in the title role?
Sights of England. Photo and description
Many people visit England in order to improve their linguistic skills, since it is in this country that language tourism is best developed. Despite the difficulty of obtaining a visa for Russians and the high standard of living in the country, this does not stop our domestic tourists on the path to their dreams.
In this article we will tell you about the most significant attractions in England to make it easier for you to navigate and plan your route. And believe me, England will definitely not disappoint you!
Big Ben
It’s definitely worth starting to get acquainted with the sights of England from the capital of this wonderful state. It is impossible to meet a person who would not like to see London with his own eyes. So, the Big Ben clock tower is the hallmark of both the capital itself and the entire country. This symbol can be found on souvenirs and postcards. In addition, Big Ben is included in the list of the largest clocks in the world.
Unfortunately, getting inside the tower ordinary tourists you can’t, these are safety rules, but this fact does not prevent you from doing great photo against her background.
The main attraction of England is shown in the photo below and is located at: Westminster, London SW1A 0AA.
British Museum in London
This is one of the largest museums in the world and is one of the most visited attractions in England. It is worth noting the fact that the British Museum in London is the main historical museum in the country.
This place will appeal to lovers of history and archaeological heritage. The uniqueness of the museum lies in the fact that on its territory cultural values from different countries of the world are presented, located in separate halls.
How much does the ticket cost? After all, this is the main museum in the whole of Great Britain, and it, in turn, consists of four administrative parts: Scotland, Wales, Ireland and England. You can visit it for free, which is especially nice!
Address: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG.
Do you know the address “221B Baker Street?” Of course! Many people probably grew up reading the works of Arthur Conan Doyle. The Sherlock Holmes Museum is the most amazing attraction in England because it is a rare case when a literary work is recreated in real life.
Guests are provided with Free access to all the rooms of the detective and his assistant Doctor Watson, recreated in best traditions original story. The exact address we will not leave him, because you have known him for a long time.
This building was erected in the second half of the 11th century and still attracts tourists with its unsurpassed view. If we talk about the main attractions of England, then Tower of London tops this list. As soon as the history inside these walls did not change. The Tower served as a prison, a mint and even a zoo. But it’s better if you see everything with your own eyes.
Address: London EC3N 4AB.
Tower Bridge
The symbol of London and one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe. This structure simultaneously refers to hanging and movable structures. Tourists have taken a liking to the main attraction of England and regularly use it as panoramic platforms cities.
Tower Bridge is located in the heart of the city over the River Thames. Its name comes from the Tower. At night, the bridge transforms even more, as the evening lights come on, and the Gothic towers give the bridge a certain charm.
Address: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP.
Westminster Abbey is an outstanding landmark in England. Description
The main shrine of England and the most famous temple of the country bears the proud name Westminster Abbey. This place is imbued with a majestic spirit and gothic atmosphere. The abbey building is one of the most beautiful man-made buildings that have perfectly preserved its history to this day. It serves as the traditional coronation and burial site for British monarchs. Not far from the abbey building is the Church of St. Margaret and the Palace of Westminster.
One of the most significant places in Great Britain. The importance of this place for the entire British people is explained by the historical victory of the British at Trafalgar, hence the name of the square. It was also here that Churchill declared the end of World War II.
IN modern London no holiday of national significance is complete without Trafalgar Square. Concerts, rallies and folk festivals are regularly held here.
Buckingham Palace on this moment acts as the London residence of Queen Elizabeth II and regularly attracts large crowds of tourists from all over the world. You can enter its territory only from August to September, when the Queen of England leaves her apartments. Visitors are also given a unique opportunity to purchase one of the copies of interior items in a local souvenir shop.
Madame Tussauds museum
The largest wax museum, where each of the exhibits is able to move and react to visitors. This trophy is also located in London, so if you are planning to visit the capital of England, you should definitely take the time to visit this place. A distinctive feature of Madame Tussauds is the ability to freely touch the figures. Here you will find an exact copy of your idol from the field of cinema, music, show business or politics.
Address: Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5LR.
Beatles Museum
The Beatles are widely known throughout the world for their melodic compositions, dance songs and legendary ballads. At one time, these guys made a musical breakthrough. Starting by imitating the classics of American rock and roll of the 1950s, The Beatles came to their own style and sound, which forever remained in the hearts of millions of listeners.
In Liverpool, the birthplace of the famous musical group, a museum of the same name has been opened, the ticket to the territory of which is valid for two days. This is an excellent opportunity to thoroughly explore the museum in several stages. The operating staff is properly trained to serve even visitors with disabilities.
Address: Britannia Vaults, Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD.
So we gradually approached the natural heritage of England. The famous reserve is very popular not only among tourists, but also among local residents. Sherwood's park area is divided into several sections, but the main asset is the centuries-old oak tree, considered a real miracle. A varied assortment of tree seedlings grown on the territory of the national reserve is also offered to visitors.
You can see photos of England's attractions with names and descriptions in this article.
Stonehenge
Have you ever been able to see dolmens? On the territory of our country, similar structures can be found in the Caucasus, but the English Stonehenge is something different and unique.
The stones of Stonehenge are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and represent a true treasure of antiquity. However, many tourists and scientists still do not understand the meaning of this building. And some are completely disappointed by what they see. The best way to check is to see for yourself. An interesting fact is that walking between the stones is prohibited; perhaps this has its own magic.
Most in a simple way getting to Stonehenge is by renting a car or taxi. Because direct flight does not exist from London, you won't be able to get there by bus. Tourists will have to change planes in Salisbury.
Oxford
The history of this place goes back to the times of the Saxons, the first mentions of which were recorded in the 9th century. Previously, there was a monastery on this site, and today it boasts one of the oldest and most majestic universities in the whole world. This south-eastern England town also boasts the remains of a Norman castle and Christ Church.
Conclusion
England is an incredible country that can surprise you with its individuality and unrivaled style. Diversity of cultural traditions, historical monuments and grandiose buildings can drive any tourist crazy. All the names of England's landmarks cannot fit on one sheet of paper. This country needs to be studied and known for years. Believe me, once you come here, you will want to come back again and again.