Choose from 322 Fun Things to Do in England
ShowingFilter 61-80 of 322 listings.
Cambridge Theatre
Opened in 1930, the Cambridge Theatre is one of the younger theaters in London’s West End. Standing on a narrow corner and made of steel and concrete, it provides an early example of a London theater adopting the modern, expressionist style that was popular in Germany in the 1920s. Inside, however, theater-goers will see bronze friezes depicting nude figures in a variety of poses, marble columns and concealed lighting. Red décor replaced the original gold and silver color scheme in the 1950s, while chandeliers and candelabras were added then as well.
The theater seats more than 1200 on three levels and has hosted both plays and musicals over the years, though it functions best as a musical venue due to its size. Matilda the Musical has been playing since 2011.
Practical Info
Theater tickets can be purchased online or at the box office. To reach the theater by the Tube, take the Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden or Leicester Square or the Northern Line to Leicester Square. Bus numbers 14, 19, 24, 38 and 176 also run near the theater.
Address: 32-34 Earlham Street, London, England
Hours: Daily 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., or 15 minutes after the curtain has gone up on performance nights.
Admission: Ticket prices vary
From $ 97
Captain Cook Memorial Museum
Chronicling the life and times of the iconic explorer, the Captain Cook Memorial Museum offers fascinating insight into Whitby's most famous former resident. Housed in the 17th-century home where a young James Cook took on his apprenticeship as a seaman, the museum’s star attraction is Cook’s attic room, decked out in period furnishings.
At the museum, visitors can learn about Cook's now-legendary voyages through a fascinating collection of artifacts, letters, ship models and maps. Pore over original letters written by Cook and his crew; follow his travels through maps and charts; see items brought back from Cook's long journeys to New Zealand and the Pacific Islands; and admire paintings of the voyages by Parkinson, Hodges and Webber.
Practical Info
The Captain Cook Memorial Museum is located in Whitby and is open daily—from 11am to 3pm from February 13 to March 24 and from 9:45am to 5pm from March 25 to November 6. The museum is closed from November 7 to February 12, but opens for private, prebooked groups.
Admission costs £5.40 for adults and £3.50 for children.
Address: Grape Lane, Whitby, Yorkshire YO22 4BA, England
Hours: Feb 13–March 24 11am–3pm; March 25–Nov 6 9:45am–5pm
Admission: Adult £5.40, children £3.50
From $ 52
Gabriel's Wharf
With its picturesque riverside promenade, colorful shopfronts and terrace cafés, Gabriel's Wharf is the ideal spot to soak up the atmosphere of the Thames riverside. Located on London’s lively Southbank, the redeveloped wharf lies just a short walk from the landmark OXO tower and the waterfront Bernie Spain Gardens, and is buzzing with life both day and night.
As well as browsing the many independent designer boutiques, handicraft stores and art galleries, visitors to Gabriel's Wharf can choose from a diverse range of cafés, bars and restaurants. Be sure to snag a table with a waterfront view – the wharf looks out over St Paul’s Cathedral, Waterloo Bridge and Somerset House.
Practical Info
Gabriel’s Wharf is located on London’s Southbank on the south side of the River Thames in central London.
Address: Gabriel’s Wharf, Lambeth, London SE1, England
From $ 34
Green Park
The smallest of London’s network of eight Royal parks, Green Park is located in Westminster, between Hyde Park to the west and St. James Park to the east. The 40-acre (16-hectare) green space is dissected by the Mall on one side and Constitution Hill on the other, right next to Buckingham Palace. It’s a peaceful triangle, known for mature plane and lime trees as well as a number of memorials, statues, and fountains.
The Basics
Its proximity to Buckingham Palace makes Green Park a popular destination for visitors looking to escape the bustle of the city. The park is home to memorials honoring Canadian, African, Indian, and Caribbean soldiers killed in the two World Wars. The park is on the path of the 7-mile (11-kilometer) Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk. It’s also included on a number of hop-on hop-off bus tours, and royal and historical tours of the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Deck chairs are available to rent from March to October during daylight hours.
- There are two refreshment kiosks in Green Park located at Ritz Corner and Canada Gate.
- The park is wheelchair accessible.
- Green Park has been used backdrop to a number of films, including The Importance of Being Earnest.
How to Get There
The closest underground stations include the Green Park and Hyde Park Corner stations, and the park is also served by multiple bus lines. There are no parking facilities near the park.
When to Get There
The park is open all day, year-round. Upwards of a million daffodils bloom in the park in the spring, tuning Green Park a brilliant yellow for a brief few weeks.
Royal Gun Salutes
Royal Gun Salutes, which mark special occasions like the Queen’s birthday and state visits, are fired from Green Park. Salutes are normally fired at midday and include 41 rounds. Public attendance is permitted, and a full schedule can be found online.
Address: London, England
From $ 27
Camden Market
Made up of Camden Lock Market, Camden Stables Market, and Camden Canal Market, the area known as Camden Market is the largest collection of street vendors in the United Kingdom. In continuous operation since the 1970s, the market draws crowds of visitors who come to explore the huge variety of unusual stalls and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
The Basics
Long known as an alternative shopping destination to the chic boutiques of Central London, Camden Market’s 1,000 stalls offer vintage clothing, books, antiques, and much more—there’s even a store dedicated to vintage pianos. You can taste your way through the many different food stalls, pick up an artisanal coffee, browse the clothing booths, or retreat to one of the canalside pubs for a refreshing drink while you watch the action unfold. The fun comes in just soaking up the atmosphere around you.
Visitors can choose to wander at will through the different areas of the market or take part in an organized walking tour to learn more about the area’s history and the many colorful characters the market has welcomed over the years.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Camden is famous for its live music venues, including The Dublin Castle and Jazz Cafe.
- Camden market is well-known for its excellent street food, so plan to enjoy lunch or dinner while you’re there.
- The area is always busy—keep an eye on your belongings and watch out for pickpockets.
How to Get There
Camden Market is best accessed by public transport or taxi, as parking is very limited. The nearest tube station is Camden Town. Chalk Farm and Mornington Crescent stations are also a short walk away. A number of buses from different parts of the city also serve the area.
When to Get There
Camden Market is open every day (including bank holidays) from 10am until late, except Christmas Day. The market can get very busy at weekends, especially on Sunday afternoons, so plan to visit on a weekday if you prefer a slower pace. To navigate the market stalls more easily, you can organize a private tour.
Take a Stroll on Regent’s Canal
After your fun market tour, head down to Regent’s Canal for a peaceful stroll through one of London’s most interesting neighborhoods, where elegant terraces line the canalside and narrow bridges take you back to a time when horses were the only form of transport. You can walk as far as Regent’s Park—one of London’s eight Royal Parks—complete with a lake, flower gardens, and tree-lined pathways.
Address: Camden High Street & Chalk Farm Road, London NW1 8AH, England
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Canary Wharf
At the heart of London’s historic Docklands, the waterfront district of Canary Wharf has transformed itself into a financial powerhouse in recent years, becoming, along with the City of London nearby, one of the capital’s most important business centers. The modern district is now home to the world or European headquarters of some of the biggest names in banking and media, and it certainly looks the part, with its gleaming skyscrapers and glass-fronted high-rises, including the 235-meter-tall One Canada Square, the tallest building in the UK until the arrival of The Shard.
It’s not all about work in Canary Wharf though – the revitalized docks now serve as an urban playground for the city’s most affluent residents, with a suitably elegant selection of bars and restaurants, and a thriving shopping district. Additional highlights include the unique Traffic Light Tree, an installation artwork by Pierre Vivant; the Centaur, a modern sculpture by Igor Mitoraj; and the Museum of the London Docklands.
Practical Info
Canary Wharf is located in London’s Docklands, on the north bank of the River Thames, east of the City of London.
Address: London, United Kingdom, England
From $ 21
Greenwich
On the south bank of the River Thames, just downriver from central London, Greenwich is one of London’s most atmospheric boroughs. Famous for its UNESCO World Heritage–listed maritime history and Royal Observatory—the home of Greenwich Meantime—it’s a lively retreat from the busy inner city.
The Basics
The most scenic way to arrive in Greenwich is by boat, and sightseeing cruises along the Thames run all the way from Westminster, passing landmarks like Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Shakespeare’s Globe along the way. The best way to explore is on foot and a walking tour of Greenwich typically includes landmarks such as the Cutty Sark (the world’s sole-surviving tea clipper), the Old Royal Naval College (famous for its magnificent Painted Hall), the National Maritime Museum, and the Queen’s House. Be sure to visit the Royal Observatory, where you can stand at the meeting point of two hemispheres on the Prime Meridian Line, and Greenwich Market, which is renowned for its art, handicrafts, and delicious street food.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Greenwich is a lovely spot for London-goers looking for a break from the big city.
- Plan to spend at least a half-day in Greenwich or a full day if you want to take in all the sights.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the Greenwich on foot—it’s full of hills, cobblestone streets, and steps.
- The Royal Observatory and many of the other attractions in Greenwich are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Thames Clippers boats run down the River Thames from Embankment Pier and Tower Pier in central London, taking less than an hour to reach Greenwich. The quickest way to Greenwich is by DLR train from London Bridge to Cutty Sark station, or by train from London Bridge or Cannon Street to Greenwich station. The closest London Underground station is North Greenwich on the Jubilee line, which is right next door to the O2.
When to Get There
Greenwich is busiest during the peak summer months (July and August), when you might want to avoid weekends if you don’t like crowds. Popular times to visit are during the Greenwich Summer Festival (July to August), Greenwich Music Time Festival (July), Greenwich and Docklands International Festival (June to July), and Greenwich Christmas Market (November to December).
O2 Arena
North Greenwich is home to the huge O2 arena and entertainment complex, housed in the former Millennium Dome. As well as hosting some of London’s biggest music concerts and sporting events, the O2 has a cinema, bowling, and a number of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Thrill-seekers enjoy the Up at the O2 experience, which offers spectacular views as you walk along the O2’s roof.
Address: London SE10, England
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Chatsworth House
The ancestral seat of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, Chatsworth House in Derbyshire is a prominent example of 17th-century architecture, and one of Britain’s most popular stately homes. It draws visitors from all over the world who come to tour the building and see the famous gardens designed by “Capability” Brown.
The Basics
Home to the Cavendish family since the 1600s, Chatsworth House stands on the River Derwent near the town of Bakewell in Derbyshire. The house was built in the 1560s but remodeled extensively in the 17th century, when the parterre gardens were added. The interiors of the house are very well preserved and include Old Masters paintings, ancient Roman and Egyptian sculptures, and much more. The landscaped grounds by “Capability” Brown were developed in the mid-18th century. Chatsworth House and its owners, the Devonshires, have played an important role in many historical events in the UK. More recently, the home has been used as a location for several films and TV shows, including the famous BBC adaptation of Pride & Prejudice.
Chatsworth has been voted the UK’s most popular country house several times and is a favorite stop for guided tours of England. If visiting independently, you can purchase individual tickets for different attractions or buy a combined pass.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Chatsworth House is ideal for architecture and history enthusiasts.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the vast house and 105-acre (43-hectare) garden.
- Various restaurants, cafés, and shops are available on the grounds.
- The house is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Chatsworth House is located in Derbyshire in England’s Peak District, close to the town of Bakewell. If driving, there is on-site parking. Alternatively take the train to the town of Sheffield and then transfer to a bus to Chatsworth, or join a guided tour.
When to Get There
Chatsworth House is open daily year-round except for major holidays. Hours vary by day and by season; check online for current schedules.
Kiddie Fun at the Farmyard and Playground
If you’re traveling with little ones, they are sure to enjoy the farmyard and playground that you’ll find on the grounds at Chatsworth (tickets available separately). Children can see the farm animals up close and even help with farmyard tasks like milking the cows. The playground—with rope park and zipline—will appeal to adventurous youngsters.
Address: Bakewell, Derbyshire, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 647
Bicester Village
Bicester Village is a luxury outlet shopping center just outside of London – the perfect destination for anyone looking to shop until they drop! Located midway between London and Birmingham, Bicester Village is hope to more than 30 luxury retailers, as well as cafes and restaurants such as Farmshop and the Villandry Grand Café. Shoppers can enjoy discounts up to 60% off retail price on brands such as MaxMara, Hugo Boss, DKNY and more. While shops do not accept foreign currency, a currency exchange is available that changes more than 40 currencies. The mall also features a children’s play area, free wi-fi, valet parking, worldwide courier service and a hands free shopping service.
Just a 15-minute walk from Bicester Village is the town of Bicester, where visitors can check out St. Edburg’s Church, the Market Square and the pedestrianized Sheep Street.
Practical Info
Located at 50 Pingle Drive in Bicester, Oxfordshire, Bicester Village is about an hour away from London. Visitors can take the train from London Marylebone and get off at Bicester North or Bicester Town stations. Bicester Town is a short walk from the mall, while a shuttle takes passengers from Bicester North. Alternatively, the luxury Shopping Express bus runs daily (except Christmas Day) from five central London locations: the Cumberland Hotel, the Hilton London Kensington Hotel, the Victoria Coach Station, the Millennium Gloucester Hotel and the Royal National Hotel. The bus departs London twice in the morning and returns twice in the early evening and costs 28 pounds roundtrip.
Address: 50 Pingle Drive, Bicester, United Kingdom OX26 6WD, England
From $ 32
Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard is a centuries-old tradition that marks the official shift change of the Household Regiment—the Queen's guards stationed at Buckingham Palace. One of the world's most famous ceremonies and a top London experience, this ceremony gives visitors the chance to witness the grandeur of a royal march. Dressed in their iconic red suits and bearskin hats, the guards exemplify classic British pomp in a showing that's not to be missed.
The Basics
The ceremony begins with the New Guard marching from Wellington Barracks to Buckingham Palace with a marching band, while the mounted Horse Guards Parade leaves from the Hyde Park barracks and crosses The Mall to St. James' Place. The official guard change then takes place in the palace forecourt. Some London walking tours include a timed stop at the palace to see the event, while other tours combine a viewing with a visit to the Tower of London or a whirl on the London Eye.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Buckingham Palace's Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily at 11:30am and lasts about 45 minutes.
- Crowds are frequent, especially at the palace, but you'll find quieter spots elsewhere along the route.
- The ceremony is free to watch, and no tickets are required.
How to Get There
The procession begins at Wellington Barracks and continues on to Buckingham Palace in central London. The nearest tube stations are St. James Park, Green Park, and Victoria.
When to Get There
To get a good view, it's best to arrive early—as early as 9:30am for a good view in the summer months. Some tours are timed specifically for the ceremony, guaranteeing the best viewpoints and insight from an expert tour guide. Note that the ceremony may be canceled in bad weather.
Things to Do Near Buckingham Palace
Travelers can pair the show with stops at Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Windsor Castle, or even with afternoon tea, a classic London experience. The nearby Tower of London also has an entertaining guards tour that complements Buckingham's Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Address: Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1, England
Hours: Daily 11:30am
From $ 23
Avebury
Dating from between 2900 and 2600 BC, Avebury is the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle. Originally composed of three stone circles—the largest of which comprised 98 standing stones (though only 27 now remain)—Avebury is truly immense. Though the function of Avebury is not fully understood, it was likely used for pagan ceremonies.
The Basics
The county of Wiltshire is brimming with Neolithic sites. Day tours departing from London, Glastonbury, and Salisbury typically combine visits to Stonehenge, Avebury, Woodhenge, and West Kennet Long Barrow, which are all part of the Stonehenge and Avebury UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other day tours combine a trip to the Avebury site with visits to picturesque English cities, towns, and villages, such as Georgian Bath or medieval Lacock, known for its wood-framed houses and stone cottages.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Avebury is a must for history buffs and anyone with an interest in mysticism.
- Beat the daytime crowds with a guided after-hours tour.
- Part of the henge is accessible by wheelchair, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom can be found on Avebury High Street.
How to Get There
Avebury is situated in Wiltshire in southwest England. If you’re driving, parking is available at the National Trust parking lot, 6 miles (10 miles) west of Marlborough on the A4361. Alternatively, take the train from London Paddington to Swindon, then switch to the Stagecoach route 49 bus to Avebury.
When to Get There
Visitors can walk around the stone circles at any time, though early morning and early evening are when the site is at its most tranquil. As in neighboring Stonehenge, the summer solstice in June is a big event, and the parking lot often fills up early on this day.
History and Highlights of Avebury
Today in Avebury, only 30 original stones remain standing, though pillars mark the places where other stones once stood. It is thought many of the original stones were removed in the Middle Ages by religious zealots who wanted to wipe out evidence of England’s pagan past. Other stones were pilfered in the 18th century and used to build houses in the vicinity, some of which can still be seen across the fields. Some stones to look out for: the huge Swindon Stone, which has never been toppled, and the Barber Surgeon Stone, under which the skeleton of a man was unearthed. The tools he was buried with indicate that he was a barber-cum-surgeon.
Address: West Kennett, Marlborough, Wiltshire, Avebury SN8 1QF, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 64
Garden Museum
Dedicated to the history and art of gardening, London’s Garden Museum offers a tranquil break from the busy city. It’s a must-see for any traveler with a green thumb, with a permanent display of paintings, tools, and historic artifacts representing 400 years of gardening in Britain.
The Basics
Travelers typically visit the Garden Museum independently or on a tour of London’s most famous gardens. In addition to the museum’s permanent collection and four to six annual temporary exhibitions, there is (of course) a beautiful garden to walk through. Visitors can also climb 131 steps to the top of the site’s medieval tower for city views. Several exhibitions, topical presentations, and events are held each year to explore the creation of British gardens.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is accessible to wheelchairs, with an elevator straight to the permanent collection on the first floor.
- The small onsite garden cafe serves tea and small bites.
- Entry to the Garden Museum is included in the London Pass.
- The medieval tower closes one hour before the museum’s closing time.
How to Get There
The Garden Museum is located in central London on the South Bank of the Thames, beside Lambeth Palace and across from the Tate Britain and Parliament. It’s about a 15-minute walk from Westminster. The museum can be reached by taking the tube to Westminster, Waterloo, Victoria, or Vauxhall, or by taking bus 3, 344, 360, 507, or C10 directly to the museum.
When to Get There
The Garden Museum is open daily from 10:30am to 5pm, with the exception of Saturdays, when it closes at 4pm. The museum is closed the first Monday of every month. Expect the largest crowds in the afternoon; visit early in the morning for a quiet visit.
Garden Museum Past and Present
The Garden Museum resides in the once-abandoned Church of St-Mary-at-Lambeth, and therefore carries centuries of history in its medieval tower and archbishop’s tomb. The church is the burial place of John Tradescant, a famous British naturalist and gardener, and his tomb now forms the centerpiece of a knot garden. The church was turned into a museum by John and Rosemary Nicholson in 1977 to preserve the tomb of Tradescants (both John and his son) and the church.
Address: Lambeth Palace Road, London, England
Hours: Sun - Fri: 10:30am - 5pm, Sat: 10:30am - 4pm, closed first Monday of each month.
Admission: Adults: £10
From $ 90
Derwentwater
Nestled in the northwestern part of the English Lake District, Derwentwater is one of the principal bodies of water that characterize the region. It is most famous for the viewpoint from Friar’s Crag promontory (described by John Ruskin as “one of the three most beautiful scenes in Europe”) and the hilly fells of Cat Bells, a picturesque attraction of the Lake District National Park. The lake is circled by an extensive network of trails, including an eight-mile (13-km) long walking trail, which is popular with both locals in need of a good workout and visitors seeking jaw-dropping backdrops. Early mornings treks are well worth the wake-up call, as the lake transforms into a calm, stoic mirror of the mountains that surround it. Photogenic opportunities await!
And with such beautiful lakeside scenery comes many marinas, the major ones being in Keswick, Portinscale and Lodore Falls. Boat hire is available from all three villages. The Keswick Launch Company also offers regular 50-minute cruises around Derwentwater with seven landing sites located at every corner of the lake. More than just a nautical halt, Keswick is also home to one of Northern England’s most popular theaters, Theatre by the Lake, which features well-known plays lakeside year-round, just five minutes from the town center.
Derwentwater features three uninhabited islands as well as Derwent Island and its famous Derwent Island House, a privately owned 18th-century manor open to the public five days a year.
Practical Info
Derwentwater’s main city, Keswick, is located two hours north of Liverpool and Manchester and can be accessed via the M6 and the A66. It is also reachable from Newcastle via the A69, the M6 and the A66.
Address: Lake District, England
From $ 39
Bibury
Bibury is a village in the Cotswolds of England and the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of Gloucestershire. It lies along the River Coln, which is a tributary of the River Thames. Visitors can stroll down Arlington Row to admire cottages that were built in the late 1300s as monastic wool stores. In the 17th century, they were covered into the weavers' cottages you see today. Many of the ornate buildings have protection status, and this row of cottages is featured on the inside cover of all United Kingdom passports. It has also been used in television and movie filming, such as Bridget Jones Diary.
Bibury is also rich in natural and wildlife attractions. Rack Isle, which is named for where wool was once hung to dry on racks, is a water meadow that provides an important home for many plants and birds. Here you can see mallards, coots, moorhens, water voles, marsh orchids, flag irises, and marsh marigolds.
Practical Info
Bibury is located 83 miles west of London and 29 miles west of Oxford. It can be reached from Oxford using route A40 and B4425, or by train to Moreton-in-Marsh and then by bus.
Address: Bibury, South East England, UK, England
From $ 110
Canterbury Cathedral
Discover a national symbol and gain insight into England’s history at the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Canterbury Cathedral. Dating back to 597, the site has held religious significance for centuries, drawing pilgrims to the location of Thomas Becket’s murder and visitors interested in its medieval towers, chapels, and stained-glass windows.
The Basics
The cathedral’s distance from London makes it a prime stop on a tour of the South. Combine your visit with stops at other landmarks, such as Leeds Castle and Dover Cliffs, for a full day’s break from the capital, or take advantage of multi-attraction tours that allow you to explore London and beyond at your own pace. Opt for a guided cathedral tour for intimate insight, or be immersed as you explore the historic grounds independently.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Canterbury Cathedral’s historic significance makes it a must-see for history buffs.
- Some tours include admittance; otherwise, there is a charge to enter the cathedral and grounds outside of service hours.
- Built across several levels, some of the medieval structure—including the Trinity Chapel—is inaccessible for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The cathedral is a short walk from both Canterbury West and Canterbury East stations, with direct links to London. The Kent site is easy to access from the channel ports, ideal for Eurostar or ferry travelers. On-site parking is available only via prior arrangement, but the city offers plenty of affordable alternatives, including a park-and-ride service. Many tours from London include round-trip transportation.
When to Get There
Canterbury Cathedral is a sight to behold at any time of year, though December’s carol services certainly add to the magic. Spring and summer bring extended daylight hours and an ideal climate for outdoor exploring. If you’re curious about worship as well as sightseeing, entry to the cathedral is free during service times, making Sunday a popular day to visit.
The Significance of Canterbury Cathedral
As the home of the Church of England, Canterbury Cathedral holds a special relationship with English history and culture. The Kingdom of Kent was the first to convert to Christianity under Rome, and Archbishop Thomas Becket’s murder in 1170 solidified the building’s religious and political importance. The cathedral has links to William the Conqueror and the Magna Carta, and was immortalized by the father of English literature, Geoffrey Chaucer, in his famous Canterbury Tales.
Address: Canterbury Cathedral, Cathedral House, 11 The Precincts, Canterbury, United Kingdom CT1 2EH, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 52
Emirates Stadium
As England’s third-largest football stadium after Wembley and Old Trafford, and home to Arsenal Football Club, one of the capital’s most renowned football teams, Emirates Stadium is a top choice for those looking to soak up the atmosphere of a British football match. Opening its doors in 2006, the state-of-the-art stadium was designed by HOK Sport and cost an impressive £390 million to build, with seats for up to 60,365 fans.
Touring the landmark stadium is also a popular choice for fans, offering the chance to explore the changing rooms, complete with luxury hydrotherapy spas, walk through the players’ tunnel onto the pitch and stand in Arsenal Manager Arsène Wenger's spot in the dug-out. The on-site Arsenal Museum is another must-see, crammed with iconic photos and memorabilia from Arsenal’s long history, and fans can also shop for sports gear or print a bespoke Arsenal shirt at The Armoury, the official Arsenal shop.
Practical Info
Emirates Stadium is located in Holloway North London and the nearest London underground (tube) station is Arsenal. The Arsenal museum is open daily from 10am to 6pm, or 4:30pm on Sundays (or 1 hour before kick-off on match days) and adult admission is £7 (or free with a stadium tour).
Address: Hornsey Rd, London, United Kingdom N7 7AJ, England
Admission: £7
From $ 29
Chartwell
Looking at the stately red brick mansion of Chartwell, with its gabled roofs and vast gardens overlooking a swimming lake, it’s easy to imagine it as the residence of someone important, and few British politicians are as revered as Sir Winston Churchill. The legendary Prime Minister lived at the country estate with his family from 1924 until his death and today its interiors have been preserved in his honor.
As well as strolling through the immaculate rose garden, learning about the estate’s history at the Visitor Centre or stopping for tea at the onsite café, visitors can admire the house’s lavish décor, explore Churchill’s studio, where more than 100 of his paintings are on display, and peek at Churchill’s personal belongings and books.
Practical Info
Chartwell is located in Kent, South East England, approximately 40 km from London and is open daily from 10am- 5pm. Adult admission is £14.30. Chartwell is closed throughout the month of January.
Address: Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent TN16 1PS, England
Hours: 10am-5pm
Admission: Adult £14.30
From $ 208
Chelsea Physic Garden
Evocatively nicknamed London’s Secret Garden, the Chelsea Physic Garden is a green oasis in the heart of Chelsea, hidden away by the Thames riverbank. Founded in 1673, it’s London’s oldest botanic garden, set up by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries and renowned for its impressive collection of medicinal plants and rare species.
The 4-acre walled-garden is home to some 5,000 different edible, medicinal and historic plants, with highlights including Britain’s largest outdoor olive tree, the world’s northernmost outdoor grapefruit tree, a series of endangered plants from Madeira and the Canary Islands, and a World Woodland Garden, devoted to forest plants from around the world. There’s also the Tangerine Dream café, which serves lunch and afternoon tea; a gift shop and an annual schedule of workshops, tours and activities.
Practical Info
The Chelsea Physic Garden is located on Royal Hospital Road in Chelsea, on the north bank of the River Thames and is open from Tuesday-Friday and Sunday from 11am-6pm.
Adult admission is £10.50.
Address: 66 Royal Hospital Rd, London SW3 4HS, England
Hours: Open Tues-Fri and Sun 11am-6pm. March-October: Tues and Wed until 10pm.
Admission: Adults: £10.50; Children: £6.95
From $ 90
Cheddar Gorge
With its dramatically jagged cliffs towering 450 feet over lush green valleys and limestone rock face pocked with caves, the Cheddar Gorge is not only England’s largest gorge, but one of the country’s most impressive natural wonders. Formed during the last ice age and cocooning the now-underground Cheddar Yeo River, the striking gorge winds its way through the Mendip Hills for almost three miles and makes a popular site for hiking and rock climbing.
The Cheddar Gorge has also become known for its collection of limestone caves and underground caverns, which made headlines back in 1903, when England’s oldest complete human skeleton was found there – a specimen nicknamed the ‘Cheddar Man’ and now kept at London’s Natural History Museum. The most famous of the caves include Gough’s Cave, with its spectacular stalactites; Cox’s Cave, with its unique calcite sculptures and mirror pools; and the adjoining Crystal Quest, where the caves are filled with JRR Tolkien-inspired fantasy figures.
Practical Info
The Cheddar Gorge is located in Somerset, southwest England, approximately 14 miles north of Glastonbury.
Address: Somerset, United Kingdom, England
From $ 68
Eltham Palace
Eltham Palace, a grand Tudor residence, makes a worthy detour from nearby Greenwich. As the childhood home of Henry VIII, the medieval palace boasts a fascinating royal history and is best known for its elaborate art deco style interiors, transformed in the 1930s by wealthy businessman Stephen Courtauld.
Visitors to Eltham Palace are whisked back to the 1930s as they explore the domed entrance hall, where the Courtaulds held their glamorous cocktail parties; peek into the opulent gold bathroom and stroll the exquisite orchid and rose gardens. Also open to guests are a series of new rooms, including a map room, a walk-in wardrobe filled with beautiful period clothing, a basement billiard room and a WWII bunker. Traces of the palace’s medieval roots can also be seen, most notably in the glorious wood-beamed Great Hall and the historic moat, crossed by London's oldest working bridge.
Practical Info
Eltham Palace is located in Eltham, about five miles (8 km) southeast of Greenwich. The site is open Sunday through Thursday from 10am to 6pm. Adult admission is £13.60. Multimedia guides are available to visitors and a café, shop, visitor center and children’s playground can also be found on site.
Address: Court Yard, Eltham SE9 5QE, England
Hours: Sun-Thurs 10am- 6pm
Admission: Adult: £13.60, Child: £8.10
From $ 90