Choose from 322 Fun Things to Do in England
ShowingFilter 101-120 of 322 listings.
Princess Diana Memorial Fountain
Few British royals were as universally adored as Princess Diana, the affectionately nicknamed ‘People’s Princess’, and the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain is just one of the many tributes and memorials erected in her name after her untimely death back in 1997.
Opened by Her Majesty The Queen in 2004, the unique water feature is the design of Kathryn Gustafson and represents Diana’s life, quality and openness, a continuous circle of flowing water, crafted from Cornish granite and crossed by three bridges. The memorial fountain lies on the route of the Princess Diana Memorial Walk, an 11km circular trail running through five of London’s royal parks and linking sights like Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace and the Princess Diana Memorial Playground.
Practical Info
The Princess Diana Memorial Fountain is located in Hyde Park, close to the Serpentine Lake.
Address: Hyde Park - W Carriage Drive, London, England
From $ 43
Oxford Covered Market
Whether you’re meeting friends for coffee or bartering over artisan produce, wandering around Oxford’s bustling central market serves as a lively introduction to the city. Drawing a steady stream of both locals and tourists, the Oxford Covered Market has been at the center of local life since it opened its doors in 1774, and today remains in its original building, designed by architect John Gwynn.
Dozens of permanent stalls are found here, including butchers, fishmongers and greengrocers all selling fresh, local produce, as well as a number of clothing, jewelry and gift options. Once you’ve stocked up on picnic essentials and souvenirs, and sampled local specialties like Oxford sausage and steak and kidney pies, take a break at one of the cafes or bakeries, where you’ll find freshly brewed tea or coffee, alongside an array of freshly made sandwiches, home-baked cakes and pastries.
Practical Info
The Oxford Covered Market is located in Oxford city center. It is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Address: The Market, Oxford OX1 3DZ, England
Hours: Monday-Saturday 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
From $ 20
Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
Running over a distance of 7 miles (11.3 kilometers) between Ravenglass and Dalegarth stations in the valley of Eskdale, the La'al Ratty — as the locals call it in old Cumbrian dialect — is a fascinating minimum-gauge heritage railway train in the heart of Cumbria. The journey to Ravenglass, the only coastal village in the Lake District National Park, takes roughly 40 minutes, a scenic ride if there ever was one; the train goes through the hills and across the estuary along the foot of the spectacular Scafell range, England’s highest mountains.
Vastly popular with tourists now, the train initially opened in 1875 to transport hematite iron ore from mines in the Boot vicinity and eventually starting carrying granite, good, produce and even passengers. It wasn’t until the mid-1960s that local railway enthusiasts realized the full touristic potential of the railway line and started building locomotives to accommodate the rapidly growing numbers of visitors to the Lake District. Today, the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway carries over 120,000 passengers each year.
The particularity of this railway line, outside its spectacular scenery, is its historical steam engines, some of which date back to the late 1800s.
Practical Info
The train calls at Ravenglass (where the headquarters and museum are located), Muncaster Hill, Miteside Halt, Murthwaite Halt, Irton Road, The Green, Fisherground, Beckfoot and Dalegarth for Boot. There are up to 16 trains daily during the high season, with service every 20 minutes or so between 8:30 a.m. and 6:40 p.m. Ravenglass is just 2.5 hours away from Liverpool, Manchester (via M6, A5090, A5092 and A595) and Newcastle (via A69, A5086 and A595). All-day return tickets cost £12.50 for adults, £6.25 for children and £34 for families (two adults, two children). Children under 5 ride for free.
Address: Ravenglass Station, Ravenglass, England
Hours: During high season, trains run every 20 minutes between 8:30 a.m. and 6:40 p.m.
Admission: Adults: £12.50, Children: £6.25, Families: £34, Children under 5: Free
From $ 19
Oxford Street
Built upon one of London’s oldest Roman roads, Oxford Street is now Europe’s most famous retail avenue. An array of major outlets and boutiques cater to about a half million shoppers each day. The street’s history, architecture, and Christmas light displays also draw all manner of visitors to the capital.
The Basics
The best way to enjoy Oxford Street is to stroll along its bustling paths, free to browse at your own pace. Hop-on hop-off tours provide the flexibility to wander and shop, without the constraint of a set itinerary. Alternatively, those with limited time can take advantage of tours that offer customizable itineraries with private transfer, letting visitors tick off this landmark along with other attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Oxford Street is an absolute must for shopaholics.
- Remember your coat and umbrella in winter, as the mile and a half-long street is entirely uncovered.
- Most of the street’s major department stores are wheelchair-friendly, with step-free entrances and wide-access elevators.
How to Get There
As with all capital cities, driving yourself is not advised. Marble Arch, Bond Street, Oxford Circus, and Tottenham Court Road Underground stations are dotted along Oxford Street, which is also served by many local buses and hop-on hop-off services.
When to Get There
Oxford Street’s annual Christmas street light and window displays are a top draw for many in the city. With a different theme every year, the display turns even London’s busiest street into a festive wonderland, and some providers offer seasonal tours to experience the sight in all its glory.
The Survival of Oxford Street
During the Blitz of 1940-41, Oxford Street was heavily bombed by the German Luftwaffe, resulting in significant damage to flagship stores, including Selfridges and John Lewis. The street was targeted again by the Provisional IRA during the Troubles. Despite these obstacles, Oxford Street is still a retail hot spot that does upward of £5 billion in sales each year.
Address: Oxford Street, London, United Kingdom, England
From $ 17
Paddington Station
Forever synonymous with the lovable Paddington Bear, star of Michael Bond’s iconic children’s books, Paddington Station ranks as one of London’s most famous train stations. Located in west London, the busy station serves both national railway and London underground trains, making it an important transport hub, as well as offering a high-speed train link to Heathrow airport.
The grand Victorian-era building dates back to the 19th century, but today it’s a modern and bustling station, crammed with shops, cafés and fast food restaurants. Paddington Station is also a key stop on Paddington Bear tours of London and fans can snap a photo with Marcus Cornish’s Paddington Bear statue or shop for official toys and merchandise at the Paddington Bear shop.
Practical Info
Paddington Station is located in Paddington in west London and serves National Rail, London Underground (Hammersmith and City, Bakerloo, District and Circle lines) and Heathrow Express trains.
Address: Praed St, London, United Kingdom W2, England
Hours: Open 24/7
From $ 16
Pier Head
Pier Head serves as the ferry departure point on the River Mersey and as a Liverpool symbol, marked by buildings known as the Three Graces, the most famous of which is the Liver Building, with its Liver Birds. Pier Head, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also home to memorials, the Museum of Liverpool, and Mersey Ferries landing stage.
The Basics
There are multiple ways to experience Pier Head. Absorb riverside views of the landmark from a cruise, or get a close-up look at its memorials on a city bike tour. Be immersed in the historic pier’s atmosphere as you walk the streets, before catching a ferry across the Mersey. Take advantage of combination tickets to see it alongside other Liverpool attractions, or opt for a flexible hop-on hop-off tour to explore at your own pace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Three Graces and the Liver Birds are a must-see for any visitor to Liverpool.
- Be sure to dress for the weather as the area is mostly uncovered and outside.
- The wide, paved pathways are wheelchair accessible.
- Take advantage of river boat cruises for sweeping views of the iconic buildings.
How to Get There
Many tours offer transportation as part of city sightseeing itinerary. Pier Head is a 20-minute walk from central Liverpool. The nearest train station is James Street, with direct services from Lime Street. The 14A bus stops there directly from the city center. Free street parking is limited.
When to Get There
Pier Head is striking at any time of year, but sunset tours offer particularly charming views of the Three Graces against a dusk backdrop. Main attractions, such as the Museum of Liverpool, close around 5pm, and the last Mersey Ferry departs at 6:40pm.
Spot the Superlambanana
Look out for the Superlambanana sculptures outside the Museum of Liverpool. The design, a cross between a lamb and a banana, pays homage to the city’s port history, as both were historically common cargoes. Beginning at Tate Liverpool, the sculptures spread through the city during its time as the European Capital of Culture, and have since been found as far away as Wales.
Address: Pier Head, Liverpool L2, England
From $ 21
Monument to the Great Fire of London
The Monument to the Great Fire of London, often simply known as ‘The Monument,’ is a Doric Greek column built to commemorate the Great Fire of London. The monument, designed by Sir Christopher Wren and built between 1671 and 1677, is located near the northern end of London Bridge and has been welcoming visitors for more than 300 years. There are now many cafes and restaurants that have popped up around this historic landmark. Visitors may climb the 311 steps leading to the top of the monument, and get rewarded with spectacular views of the city of London (and a certificate of athletic prowess!). The monument was built to commemorate the Great Fire of London and to celebrate the rebuilding of the city after the destruction caused by the fire, which began in a baker’s house on Pudding Lane and raged for three days – destroying much of the city. The only buildings that survived the fire were the ones built of stone (like St. Paul’s Cathedral). The monument is 202 feet high (61 meters) – the exact distance between it and the place on Pudding Lane where the fire was started.
Practical Info
The monument is located at the junction of Monument Street and Fish Street Hill, 202 feet (61 meters) from the place the Great Fire of London started in 1666. The monument only accepts cash payment. Children younger than 13 must be accompanied by an adult in order to climb the steps to the top. Large bags must be left at the base of the staircase.
Address: Fish St Hill, London EC3R 8AH, England
Hours: Open daily Oct-Mar 9:30am-5:30pm (last entry at 5pm); April-Sept 9:30am-6pm (last entry at 5:30pm)
Admission: Adults: £4; Children: £2
From $ 16
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
The vast grounds and imposing stadiums that once hosted athletes from all over the world during the 2012 London Olympics have now been transformed into one of East London’s most impressive green spaces—Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The Basics
Whether you want to explore the beautiful parklands on a walking or biking tour, take a boat cruise along the City Mill River, or enjoy lunch at The Podium or the Timber Lodge Café, there are plenty of ways to visit the Olympic Park. Relive the trials and triumphs of the 2012 Olympics on a guided London Stadium tour, or see the ArcelorMittal Orbit illuminated by night on an after-hours tour of London’s East End. You can also enjoy aerial views of iconic Olympic venues like the London Aquatics Centre, the Copper Box Arena, and Lee Valley VeloPark from the roof of the O2 or on a thrilling helicopter flight.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Head to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Information Point (just north of the London Aquatics Centre) for a park map and the latest visitor information.
- Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the park.
- The park and its venues all all wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and sighted guides are all available.
How to Get There
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is located in East London, straddling the districts of Stratford, Hackney Wick, Bow, and Leyton. To get there by train, get off at the Stratford stop on the Jubilee and Central lines, or at Pudding Mill Lane or Hackney Wick stations The Stratford International train station offers direct links to other UK destinations including Kent, Dover, and Canterbury.
When to Get There
The park is open daily all year and special events, and family activities are held on weekends and during school holidays throughout the year. The most popular time to visit is during the summer months, when you can enjoy open-air concerts, art exhibitions, boat tours, and other activities. During the holiday season, the park hosts a Christmas Market, choir concerts, and other events.
Things to Do at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Take in the views or ride the slide at the ArcelorMittal Orbit, the UK’s tallest sculpture, follow the Art Trail or London 2012 Trail, stroll through the Mandeville Place orchards, or go shopping at the gigantic Westfield Stratford City Mall. There are ample opportunities for sports and outdoor activities too: the state-of-the-art Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre comes equipped with 10 courts and two hockey pitches; the one-of-a-kind VeloPark offers all sorts of two-wheeled fun, from track cycling and road racing to BMX and mountain biking; and the London Aquatics Centre has two gigantic swimming pools and a diving pool.
Address: London E20 2ST, England
From $ 15
Radio City Tower
At 138 meters (452 feet), Radio City Tower is a prominent feature of the Liverpool skyline, and its observation platform provides aerial views of the city and beyond. Built in 1969, the tower began life as St. John’s Beacon—a ventilation shaft topped with a revolving restaurant—and is now a regional communications tower.
The Basics
Admire views of this centrally located landmark as you sightsee in the city, or opt to ascend to the 121-meter (400-foot) gallery to gain an overview of Liverpool; advanced booking is available. Once you’re on the platform, you can speak with informative guides, peek in at live radio shows, or simply absorb panoramas as you gaze out over Merseyside, looking for far-off Blackpool and perhaps even distant Snowdonia.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The high vantage point is ideal for first-time visitors to get their bearings.
- The tower is very family-friendly, with free admission for children under 5.
- Radio City Tower is wheelchair accessible, as there is elevator access to the viewing platform for all visitors.
How to Get There
Entry to the tower is on Houghton Street, just a few minutes from both Liverpool Central and Liverpool Lime Street stations, as well as the Queen Square bus stop. St. John’s Shopping Centre on Lime Street has parking spaces with a per-hour charge.
When to Get There
Clear weather brings the best views, with visibility stretching as far as North Wales on particularly good days. Otherwise, head up just before sunset during the darker months to see the distant sights, and then enjoy the atmospheric descent of dusk over a wintry Liverpool.
Liverpool’s Tallest Structure?
Technically, Liverpool’s tallest building is the 140-meter (459-foot) West Tower, which has a fine-dining restaurant on its 34th floor. However, Radio City Tower has a 10-meter antenna on its roof, taking the structure to 148 meters (453 feet) and pushing it just higher than its skyscraping competitor, depending on your perspective!
Address: England
Admission: Varies
From $ 8
Regent Street
Lined with grand Victorian buildings and big-name shopping boutiques, Regent Street was London's first dedicated shopping block, dating back to the early 19th century. Running for just over a mile (2 km) between Piccadilly Circus and Oxford Circus, the historic boulevard is now both a major traffic thoroughfare and one of London's busiest streets, welcoming more than 7.5 million annual visitors.
Regent Street is well-established as a shopping Mecca, with over 75 flagship stores including Liberty department store, Hamley’s Toy Store and one of the world’s largest Apple stores, plus designers like Burberry, J.Crew, Anthropologie and COS. Above the dazzling shopfronts, the street is also home to an impressive array of Grade II listed buildings, including the All Souls Church, built by acclaimed architect John Nash, and an eye-catching collection of contemporary street art.
Regent Street also plays host to a number of seasonal events and festivities throughout the year, including the Christmas lights Switch On concert, the Lumiere London lights festival, the Hamley’s Christmas Toy parade, the Regent Street Motor Show and the Summer Streets Festival.
Practical Info
Regent Street runs north from Piccadilly Circus to Oxford Circus in London’s West End and can be reached by the Central, Piccadilly and Bakerloo tube lines. Most shops on Regent Street are open daily from 10am until around 8 or 9pm, although Sunday hours may be shorter and bars and restaurants are typically open until late.
Address: Regent Street, Soho, London W1, England
Hours: Hours vary by shop
From $ 23
Mathematical Bridge
Stroll along the riverfront or take a punting tour along Cambridge’s River Cam and you’ll be sure to see the Mathematical Bridge, one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. The humble wooden footbridge crosses the river between the old and new buildings of the Queens College, and dates back to the 18th century.
Popular legend dictates that the bridge was the masterwork of Cambridge University alumni Isaac Newton, who built it to illustrate his theories of force and gravity, using only wood and no nuts, bolts or metal framework. In reality, the bridge was built by James Essex in 1749 to a design by William Etheridge. Officially called the ‘Wooden Bridge’, the Mathematical Bridge earned its famous nickname thanks to its impressive engineering design – using straight timber arranged in a series of tangents to create a self-supporting arc.
The bridge that stands today was actually rebuilt in 1905, but it’s become so well known that a replica has even been built at Oxford University, Cambridge’s notorious rival.
Practical Info
The Mathematical Bridge runs across the River Cam in central Cambridge, connecting the main buildings of the Queens College, part of the University of Cambridge.
Address: Cambridge CB3 9ET, England
From $ 14
Regent's Park
Once reserved exclusively for England’s royals, this 410-acre (166-hectare) park is now public, and one of London’s prettiest patches of green. As well as a boating lake, sports facilities, a rose garden, fountains, statues, and several playgrounds, Regent’s Park is also home to the 20,000 or so creatures of the London Zoo.
The Basics
London’s royal parks are among the city’s most-loved green spaces, and Regent’s Park is no exception. Most visitors come for a stroll or to take a break from sightseeing and shopping—it’s a popular picnic and sunbathing spot. You can also rent rowboats, explore the ZSL London Zoo, and stroll around the perimeter to see the neoclassical terraced mansions built by John Nash, an influential 18th-century architect who also worked on Buckingham Palace. The park is a stop on many hop-on hop-off bus tours of London.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Regent’s Park is a great place to take a time-out from sightseeing.
- Most of the park’s pathways are paved and wheelchair-accessible. Information boards at entrance points list the most accessible routes in the park.
- Find several restaurants, cafés, and food and drink kiosks (summer months only) situated around the park.
- Deck chairs are available to rent between March and October.
How to Get There
The nearest tube stations are Regent’s Park (Bakerloo line), Great Portland Street (Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines), and Baker Street (Bakerloo, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Jubilee, and Metropolitan lines), all of which are less than 10 minutes from the park on foot.
When to Get There
The park is at its liveliest in summer, when events such as open-air theater performances take place and the roses of Queen Mary’s Garden are in bloom. Go early in the morning to see the park at its most peaceful, or ascend to the summit of Primrose Hill (on the north side of the park) at sunset to witness the silhouette of the central London skyline against a dusty golden horizon.
Events at Regent’s Park
Regent’s Park is home to many special events, including food festivals, art fairs, and special days devoted to historical topics, such as the park’s role in World War I. From May through September, the park’s open-air theater hosts drama, comedy, and music performances, as well as outdoor film screenings.
Address: London, England
From $ 42
Queens' College
First established in 1448, Queens' College is one of Cambridge University’s oldest colleges, taking its name from founders Queen Margaret and Queen Elizabeth (the Queens of Henry VI and Edward IV respectively). With its grand medieval buildings and prime waterfront location on the banks of the River Cam, it’s a striking and highly photogenic site, making it a popular choice for visitors to the city.
A number of areas at Queens’ College are open to the public and visitors can explore the Old Hall, Chapel and cloisters, and see the President's Lodge, the oldest building on campus. Perhaps the most famous landmark of the Queens’ College is the Mathematical Bridge, a historic wooden footbridge that runs over the River Cam and connects the college buildings on the river’s east and west banks. Built by William Etheridge in 1748, the unique bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering, leading to the popular (but false) legend that it was built by Cambridge University alumnus Isaac Newton – who actually died years before it was built.
Practical Info
Queens' College is located just south of King’s College on the banks of the River Cam, in central Cambridge. The college is open to visitors daily from 10am- 4pm, except during study periods, and adult admission is £3 (children under 10 go free).
Address: Queens' College, Cambridge CB3 9ET, England
Hours: Daily 10am- 4pm; closed during study periods
Admission: adults £3, children under 10 free
From $ 14
Kensington Palace
As the official London home of Britain's favorite royal couple, Prince William and Kate Middleton, along with little Prince George and Princess Charlotte; Kensington Palace's fame rivals that of Buckingham Palace. Will and Kate aren't the only members of the royal family to walk the halls of Kensington Palace, though—King George II, Queen Victoria, Queen Anne, Princess Margaret and Princess Diana have all also called the palace home.
The Basics
While the royal living quarters are off-limits, a large portion of the palace is open to the public, with multiple exhibit spaces plus the renowned Orangery café. Visitors can admire the 16th-century King's Staircase; peek into Queen Mary's State Apartments; learn more about Queen Victoria in the Victoria Revealed exhibition; and explore Queen Caroline's Cabinet of Curiosities, all before strolling the landscaped palace gardens. You can also admire a collection of iconic dresses worn by Princess Diana in the Diana: Her Fashion Story exhibit.
Opt for a priority-access ticket to save time, or book a Royal Palaces Pass that allows entry to three royal London attractions: Buckingham, the Tower of London, and Hampton Court Palace. Some tours to Buckingham Palace also stop by Kensington Palace, while others pair a palace visit with an indulgent afternoon tea experience in the palace gardens.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Admission lines can be long in summer, especially for special exhibitions, so it’s best to book priority entrance tickets in advance.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on-site.
- Most areas of the palace are wheelchair accessible, and concession tickets are available.
How to Get to Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace is located at the west end of Hyde Park in central London. The nearest tube stations are Queensway and High Street Kensington, each about a 10-minute walk from the palace.
When to Get There
Kensington Palace is open all year round, but special events are held throughout the year, including fashion exhibits, the open-air Luna Cinema in August, and Queen Caroline's annual garden parties.
Address: Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX, England
Hours: March–Oct 10am–6pm; Nov–Feb 10am–4pm
Admission: €18
From $ 21
Radcliffe Camera
With its striking neoclassical dome looming over the neighboring Bodleian Library, the Radcliffe Camera (or Radcliffe Room in Latin) is one of Oxford’s most iconic sights and one of the most photographed of all the university buildings. Funded by Royal physician John Radcliffe and designed by architect James Gibbs, the "Rad Cam" was completed in 1749 and was originally used as the university’s principal science library.
Today the Radcliffe Camera is part of the Bodleian Library complex and houses two reading rooms and an underground library, where about 600,000 English and history books are available for browsing. The interior of building is closed to the public except with guided tours, but the dramatic circular façade still draws crowds of daily visitors with its three tiers of Headington and Burford stone elaborately decorated and encircled with Corinthian columns.
Practical Info
The Radcliffe Camera is located in central Oxford, next door to the Bodleian Library, and is open to the public by guided tour only. The reading room is open for university students and tour visitors on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Address: Radcliffe Square, Oxford OX1, England
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
Saturdays 9am-4:30pm
Sundays 11am-5pm
Admission: Open by guided tour only
From $ 16
Oxford Castle
With its lone tower and man-made grassy mound, the once mighty Oxford Castle is now a shadow of its former self. But the striking landmark still offers a fascinating insight into the city’s grim and gory history. Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1071, the Norman Castle was later converted into a prison and execution tower, linked to the county court by an underground passageway and remaining in use until as late as 1996 (although the last public execution was held in 1863).
Today, the castle ruins stand at the heart of the Oxford Castle Quarter, an atmospheric hub of cafes, bars and restaurants, and is open to the public through via Oxford Castle Unlocked tours, typically led by a guide in period costume. As well as climbing the 101 steps to the top of the Saxon St. George’s Tower and taking in the views from the mound, visitors can brave a peek into the allegedly haunted crypt and explore the preserved prison wings, while uncovering the secret history of medieval Oxford.
Practical Info
Oxford Castle is located at the west end of Oxford City Center, a five-minute walk from the main train and bus stations. The castle is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and adult admission to the Oxford Castle is £9.95 per adult, with the last tour at 4:20 p.m.
Address: Oxford, England
Hours: Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Admission: £9.95
From $ 15
Queen's House
Commissioned by King James I in 1616, the magnificent Queen’s House was originally a gift for his Queen, Anne of Denmark, but remained unfinished at the time of her death, completed instead by King Charles I in 1638. Designed in an innovative Palladian style by architect Inigo Jones, the grand garden villa remains one of the principal landmarks of Greenwich, now standing proud at the entrance to the vast Greenwich Park.
The Queen’s House is now owned by the National Maritime Museum and houses part of the museum’s art collection as well as an impressive array of Royal portraits. The lavish interiors are also open to the public, including highlights like the ‘Tulip Staircase’, the Great Hall, with its striking black and white marble floor, and a range of 17th-century furnishings.
Practical Info
The Queen’s House is located at the northern entrance to Greenwich Park, next to the National Maritime Museum and is open daily from 10am-5pm. Admission is free.
Address: Romney Rd, London, England
Hours: Open daily from 10am-5pm
From $ 59
Lacock
A small, rural village on the southern edge of the Cotswolds in Wiltshire County, Lacock is famous for its historic feel and big-screen appearances. It has been featured in several film and television productions, including Pride and Prejudice, Emma and most recently, Harry Potter.
Sights include the medieval Lacock Abbey, with its expansive English gardens, stable house and Fox Talbot Museum, a photography exhibition named after the inventor of the negative/positive photographic process (a Lacock resident in the 1800s.)
Many visitors enjoy the two-mile walk that circles the surrounding countryside and offers views of the town and its abbey.
Practical Info
Lacock is located west of London, and the easiest way to get to it from the city is by taking the train from London Paddington station to Chippenham, followed by a bus to Lacock. It is also accessible via a two-hour car ride.
Address: Lacock, England
From $ 129
Lake Grasmere
Famously described by Wordsworth as ‘the loveliest spot that man hath ever found’, Lake Grasmere has high credentials and the powder-blue lake, bordered by emerald green hillsides and lush woodlands, is certainly among the most attractive in the Lake District.
Grasmere’s fame means it’s also one of the National Park’s top destinations and huge crowds flock to the lakeside during the summer months to walk around the lakeside, paddle around the lake on a rowing boat or kayak, or explore the eponymous village, renowned for its handmade chocolates and gingerbread. Grasmere Lake is also a popular stop for literary fans, with top attractions including the Wordsworth family graves and Dove Cottage and Rydal Mount, both former homes of Wordsworth and preserved as museums.
Practical Info
Lake Grasmere is located just south of Grasmere village in the center of the Lake District National Park.
Address: Grasmere, Lake District, England
From $ 39
Old Trafford
Old Trafford Stadium, also known as the Manchester United Football Ground, has been home to Manchester United F.C. since 1910. With a capacity of more than 75,000, it is the second largest football stadium in the United Kingdom after Wembley Stadium and the ninth largest in all of Europe. The stadium was used by American soldiers to play baseball during World War I and was used as a depot by the military in World War II, sustaining significant damage from German bombings.
The pitch is surrounded by four stands, each with two tiers, except for the South, which has only one. The Alex Ferguson Stand, named for the longest-serving manager in Manchester United history, is where visitors will find the museum, trophy room and the Red Café. The South Stand is where the VIPs tend to be found and the West Stand is traditionally where the most diehard fans congregate.
In addition to Manchester United matches, Old Trafford has hosted FA Cup semi-finals, matches at the 1966 World Cup, the 2003 Champions League Final, the rugby league’s annual Super League Grand Final and the final of two Rugby League World Cups. It also hosted football matches during the London Summer Olympics, including the first international women’s football matches to be played at the stadium.
Practical Info
Old Trafford is located outside of the Manchester city center, about a half mile from the Old Trafford Cricket Ground. Adjacent to the South Stand is the Manchester United Football Ground railway station, which is only open on match days. Visitors can also reach the stadium by the Metrolink tram, stopping at either the Exchange Quay or Old Trafford stops. Buses 255, 256, 263 and X50 also run to the stadium, with bus 255 providing extra service on match days. Tours of the stadium are available on non-match days between 9:40 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. A basic tour costs 18 pounds and includes access to the museum. A number of other uniquely themed tours are also available.
Address: Sir Matt Busby Way, Manchester, England
Admission: Tour/Museum £18
From $ 17