Things to see and do United Kingdom

Tioram Castle is located on the rocky island of Eilean Tioram, where the waters of Loch Moidart and the Shiel River meet. It was seduced at a strategic point, rivers and seas being once the preferred routes of circulation. Among other things, vestiges of Viking presence were found there. In ruins, it cannot be visited even at low tide. However, you can walk around the island and around the building. However, be very careful (risk of rock falls) and watch the tide schedules.

The Orkney Museum is particularly well developed and is full of information and objects of great interest. Set up in a former Kirkwall house opposite the cathedral, its exhibition is a bit like a labyrinth, with rooms that follow one another in all directions. The contents are nonetheless very interesting and instructive, telling the history of the archipelago, from its origins to the present day, from the Stone Age, the Picts and the Vikings. It is an excellent introduction to discovering the region.

Raised in the 13th century, this medieval building is one of the oldest stone castles in the country. Placed at the mouth of Loch Linnhe, it was the work of the Earls McDougall, before passing into the hands of the Campbell clan in the 15th century. Besieged by Robert the Bruce during the Wars of Independence, it is a witness to the history of the country. Very well preserved, it offers to see imposing walls, the remains of its great hall and the residences of the new house, as well as a chapel. Climb the ramparts to embrace a superb view!

The church, in itself, is quite simple and uncluttered. In the cemetery of this church there are beautifully carved stelae and Celtic crosses. It is moreover the cemetery that attracts visitors, who admire the engraved stones, some of which are particularly old: 15th or 16th century. Some have been restored and are displayed in the church, others in a dedicated space within the cemetery and others still remain on the ground.

Historically, the place was home to the first Chinese emigrants in the ^18th and ^19th centuries, and then saw the arrival of Cantonese refugees after the Second World War. You will find restaurants, supermarkets and Chinese gadgets, also spread on Lisle Street. Every year the Chinatown district is festive for the Chinese New Year which falls between January and February, according to the lunar calendar. Parade, lion dance, fireworks and culinary stands. Not to be missed, these are the most important celebrations outside Asia!

This popular walking area can be reached in less than 10 minutes by bus. Here again, one marvels at the extraordinary views of the sea, despite the frequent sea breeze. Don't hesitate to cover yourself well! Beacons indicate the routes of two circular walks that take you along spectacular cliffs. One is 11.5 km for about 3.5 hours. You can also opt for its short version, 5 km long, by cutting through the land. A copy of the detailed itinerary can be requested from the tourist office.

Fascinating reconstruction of an Iron Age fort. In each of the round, thatched houses, the interiors are reconstructed, based on the speculations of archaeologists. Very little information remains about the life of Iron Age man. In the houses, guides bake bread or spin wool, passionately recounting what we think we know about the period. Many discoveries about Iron Age techniques and knowledge were made during the construction of the site. Breathtaking!

At the bottom of Monnow Street is the old fortified bridge of the city and the door that marked the entrance to the th century.

Dominating an impressive 12-hectare site, this castle is the most imposing in the country and the second largest in Britain, after Windsor. It is the perfect example of a medieval castle: crenellated towers, drawbridge, keeps... Built on the remains of a Roman fort and the ruins of a Norman fort, the castle was erected in the ^13th century by the Anglo-Norman lord Gilbert de Clare for defensive purposes: to protect himself from Llywelyn the Great. However, Llywelyn the Great succeeded in destroying a large part of the castle, and the English quickly rebuilt it.

It is undoubtedly the most popular market in the region and one of the best places to enjoy the atmosphere of the area. Tuesday is the most important day, the day when people come from all over the Brecon Beacons to buy vegetables, fish and meat. In addition to food, there is a little bit of everything: clothes and jewellery, craftsmen working with wood, leather or wool. A hundred stands animate the huge covered hall every day: you will probably not be disappointed by the atmosphere!

The neoclassical building designed by William Henry Playfair houses a collection of European paintings. First opened in 1859, it contains paintings by Gainsborough, Goya, Francis Bacon, William Blake, Vincent Van Gogh and de Vinci. On the French side, Cézanne, Monet, Delacroix and Ingres are also present. Do not miss the two famous paintings by Titian devoted to the myth of Diana and Actaeon and the series of the seven sacraments of the Church by Poussin.

This office is a good base after Belfast to document itself, when we start talking about the Antrim Coast for the North.

The museum, also located on the spot, presents the city's history with a collection of vintage objects. Former firefighter's car, costumes and utensils culminating in the turbulent times of Carrickfergus with the th century invasions, Cromwell countryside, American colonies…

The Glenariff Forest Park covers 1 185 ha and is famous for its postcard, Servicio-Na-Laragh. It is less than 1 km from the entrance, after a wooden path that winds over the river. Other routes are marked (4 paths up to 9 km) in the humid forest rich in biodiversity, alternating gorges and valleys, waterfalls and rocks. Departure also from the Moyle Way which crosses the mountain to Ballycastle (25 km).

Saundersfoot's beaches are among the most extraordinary in South Pembrokeshire, renowned for their exceptional beauty. To discover them, you can reach the village of Amroth from Tenby, by bus no. 350, then follow the coastal path to the beaches of Saundersfoot. To the west of the village, there is also Glen Beach, an ideal beach for family swimming, with restaurants nearby. Often events are organized throughout the year, the program is available on site.

This small, independent museum is housed in a former St. Nicholas fishermen's church. Opened in 1956, it focuses on the maritime and fishing history of Hastings, with photographs, paintings and period objects. Models, nets, ropes and explanations bring to life this key activity of the region. The small gift store is packed with fascinating objects such as fossils and precious stones, as well as books on local history to dig a little deeper.

It is the oldest of Scotland's castles still inhabited; the MacLeods have been living there since the 13th century. Their motto is Hold Fast! ("Hang in there!"). The family never abandoned the building, its rock, and even less the Fairy Flag, an old piece of cloth that has caused many adventures.

The tour includes a visit to the castle, where you can see various objects from the MacLeod clan, but also the bedrooms, lounges and dungeons, as well as the gardens, created in the 19th century. The latter have become one of the largest horticultural gardens in Scotland.

Apsley House was the home of the Duke of Wellington, famous for defeating Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. After the battle, he even had a room built to celebrate the victory. A touch of English humor: this is where you'll find Canova's colossal nude statue of Napoleon. As this work was not to the emperor's taste, it was kept away from the official residences and eventually ended up in the home of his fatal enemy. Inside, you can admire period furniture and the Duke's art collection.

In 1765, General John Guise bequeathed his collection of early artists, more than 200 paintings and 2,000 drawings, to the University of Christ Church, his former college. Oxford can thus introduce art into its courses, thus avoiding students having to go as far as Italy. The collection was then enriched by other donations. Today it has 300 paintings and many paintings of Italian art from the 14th to the 18th century with artists such as Tintoretto and Veronese.

The construction of the theatre was the result of combined passions and energies, helped by private donations: until the 19th century, Shakespeare's birthplace and all the places where he had stayed were visited, he was worshipped, but not celebrated, because there was no theatre in Stratford. In 1870, Charles Flower donated the land. A circular theatre opened its doors in 1879. However, no troupe is yet permanently installed: performances take place in April (for Shakespeare's birthday) and in summer only. The building having been completely destroyed in 1926, the current theatre was built in 1932, thanks to a private donation, according to Elisabeth Scott's plans. A first company was established in 1950, including John Gielgud, Laurence Olivier, Vivien Leigh, among others... But the Royal Shakespeare Company was really founded in 1961, thanks to Peter Hall, who built a second theatre (The Swan) and set up a stage in London, the Barbican Theatre. Over the past 30 years, the company has been enriched by the work of Ben Kingsley, Vanessa Redgrave, Jeremy Irons and, more recently, Kenneth Brannagh. Curiously enough, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the Swan Theatre work together behind the scenes, so that Falstaff can be found alongside La Mouette, Othello, La Duchesse de Malfi.... in all courtesy! Guided tours are regularly conducted by Shakespearean theatre enthusiasts who will teach you the history of backstage and rehearsals.

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle housed his favourite character, Sherlock Holmes, the most famous of all private detectives, at 221b Baker Street. His world, imagined by the writer, is recreated, immersing us in the Victorian era. There are three floors with three rooms, but the commentaries broadcast in the rooms are not always very audible. It's a bit pricey for what it is, and therefore more for the die-hard fans. The souvenir store on the first floor is well-stocked and may suffice if you're on a tight budget.

Founded in 1621, this botanical garden is the oldest "teaching garden" in the UK, located in the country's oldest university. Plants of medicinal and scientific value were studied here. The Rose Garden is dedicated to the researchers and discoverers of penicillin. Today, over 6,000 different plants are on display. A true oasis in the heart of Oxford. It also boasts 7 greenhouses housing plants from all over the world. The first was built over 300 years ago. Guided tours available.

The father of psychoanalysis arrived in England in 1938 after fleeing Austria to escape the Nazis. He settled in this house and lived there for 18 months, until his death in 1939. It was here that he continued to write Malaise in Civilization. His daughter Anna occupied the house until 1986, and it was on her death and in accordance with her wishes that the premises were transformed into a museum. The tour revolves around Freud's library and study, and features the books he used and his collectables. The highlight of the tour: the famous couch!

To the south-east of Tunbridge Wells, the tiny market town of Lamberhurst is home to this superb estate, with its Victorian mansion, small ^14th-century moated fort and picturesque 315-hectare gardens, which are a delight to explore in autumn or spring, when they're in full bloom. It's an ideal family outing, offering pleasant strolls among the rhododendrons and beautiful interiors. Guided walks are also available. A truly enchanting visit.

On the south-east coast of the village, just a little hundred meters from the last houses, these caves formed more than 400 million years ago. There is a small way to go and the fans of the Game game Game of Thrones will take a look at it, as it was one of the shooting sites in Northern Ireland.

Jane Austen, the subtle author, is analyzed and recounted here, thanks to an exhibition reconstructing her life. It's an opportunity to learn more about the woman who, under the guise of writing great romances, firmly criticized the Regency era and its conventions. In fact, she spent several years living and writing in Bath. After your visit, don't miss The Regency Tea Room for a traditional cream tea. If you're visiting in September, don't miss the Jane Austen Festival.

Reaching 153 metres above sea level, Beachy Head is the highest chalk cliff in England. It offers a superb view of the sea and the surrounding area. A pub, a store and a small information centre are located on the site.

April 16, 1746 marked the end of the last Jacobite revolution and hopes for the Stuart dynasty to regain the throne of Scotland. After threatening to take London, Bonnie Prince Charlie's troops retreat to the Highlands where they are pursued by the Duke of Cumberland's men. The two armies meet on the plain of Culloden, and the Scots are outnumbered to win. Their defeat is total after one hour and Charles is forced to flee. It's a must if you're passionate about Scottish history.

Museum area: It tells the story of the battle from both points of view, with period objects in support. It thus retraces everything one might want to know about this major event in national history, with reconstitution films and a great deal of information on the ins and outs of the battle. Ultra modern, it offers a 360-degree immersion theatre of combat.

Open Access: The battlefield is visible (but not accessible) in open access, as is the Leanach Cottage, which has been open for visitation since it reopened to visitors in 2019. This traditional thatched cottage built in the 18th century was still inhabited in 1912. It has been restored and has become a free temporary exhibition space.

Shop: Outlander fans, you'll find in the free shopping area what you need to add to your goodies collection

Perched on an island in the middle of Loch Laich, a cove in Loch Linnhe, this fortress was built in the 14th century by the McDougall clan and was used for the filming of a scene from the Monthy Python film, Sacred Grail (1975). Tours last about two hours, including the boat trip, and are led by the Stewart Allward family, the current owner of the site. You can also enjoy the superb view of the castle from the Castle Stalker View café, which offers a breathtaking view of the building, or by walking a few metres towards the shore.

On one of the most beautiful railroads in the country, this superb locomotive train takes you back to the Victorian era, but also through some of Scotland's most beautiful landscapes, between Fort William and Mallaig. In season, there are two daily departures from Fort William, in the morning and afternoon, and two returns from Mallaig, in the afternoon and evening. For Harry Potter fans, this is the Hogwarts Express you see in the films. Contemporary Scotrail trains also take the same route several times a day.

Founded in 1150, Dryburgh Abbey did not reach the levels of wealth of its neighbours, Melrose, Kelso and Jedburgh. Nevertheless, she was just as overwhelmed by the wars. In 1322, as King Edward II's army withdrew south, the soldiers set fire to it. It was one of three fires in his history. It remains a bewitching ruin. The cloister and some of the painted walls have survived admirably through the ages, but perhaps the main attraction is the tomb of Sir Walter Scott, which lies here not far from his sumptuous home.

Created in 1825, this small distillery is named after its famous neighbour, the giant Ben Nevis. It does not really offer the longest and most complete visit of Scotland, but still has the advantage of being in the city centre of a tourist destination. The 10 years of age is the lighthouse malt. It's 46% percent, is pretty rounded, soft and dry.

Built in the 13th century, the castle is located in a very strategic place: it dominates the village and the sea from the top of the rock, and is part of the famous chain of castles built by Edward I to ensure his new conquests. Owain Glyndwr, an important figure in the country's history, conquered the castle in 1404 and lived there for five years, making Harlech the capital of Wales. If the weather is clear, the views are particularly magnificent, one can see Tremadog Bay and the mountains in the distance.

Designed by the Spanish Enric Miralles, the construction of the Scottish Parliament's headquarters was spread out from 1999 to 2004. Today, this boldly shaped building stands in stark contrast to the rest of Old Town and its neighbour, the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Some people love it, others hate it... It can be visited free of charge: an interactive exhibition explains the role, functioning, history and architecture of parliament. Several guided tours (to be booked) are available: classic, "Architecture tour", "Art tour" and "Photography Tour".

Founded in 1136 by Cistercian monks, Melrose Abbey was heavily damaged by the English troops of Richard II in 1385. It was then completely rebuilt and most of the visible remains date from this period. Outside, some of the sculptures are very surprising, like goblin cooks and a pig playing the bagpipes. Inside, several Scottish kings are buried, like Alexander II. Above all, it contains the heart of Robert the Bruce, making it an important place of pilgrimage in the country.

The castle of Carrickfergus is very impressive given the port and one of its first functions is well understood: defend the small town against the invaders. Despite 750 years of various military occupations, the building still dominates the horizon and watches at the entrance to Belfast Lough. It is remarkably well preserved, at least from construction in the th and th centuries. Some exterior walls and the polychrome échauguettes of the XIV, but nothing is safe, and other very old parts would have collapsed in the sea.
The central dungeon was erected in 1177 by Jean de Courcy (30 m high, thick walls between 5 and 3 m) after the Ulster Norman invasion. The fortifications were built between 1225 and 1250. The Norman and then English occupations succeeded. In the th century, Carrickfergus was the only place in Northern Ireland where English was spoken. The only access to the castle is the bridge and a visitor centre is right on the right. Models stored on the course help to imagine the living between the walls during the visit.

The first university of Aberdeen, founded in 1495.

The Prime Minister's residence, number 10, has been located in this little street perpendicular to Whitehall since 1732. Following renovation in 1902, it also became the Prime Minister's principal residence. The building has not been open to visitors since Margaret Thatcher forbade it. The famous facade, seen over and over again on the news, can be seen behind a gate. Following Boris Johnson's resignation in 2022, Rishi Sunak is living in the building at the time of writing.

This historic market, just next to the DLR station, has existed for more than three centuries. In the three sections gathered, you can buy food, antiques, vintage and trendy clothes, furniture, ethnic accessories... Around the market, many restaurants and bars allow you to stop for a drink or a snack, just to take a break. It is a lively and animated place, with a village market atmosphere. A must stop for lunch when visiting Greenwich.

This beautiful Victorian cemetery is a must-see when you're in the small village of Highgate. Among the anonymous are some 850 notables and celebrities, including Karl Marx and George Eliot. But it's the Gothic appearance of the tombs - angels, funerary urns, Celtic crosses, all surrounded by lush vegetation - that really stands out. Following bizarre incidents in the 1970s, vampire hunts shook public opinion. The latest famous arrival is George Michael, but his grave in a private plot is not accessible.

This original work, created in 1999 by local artist John Kindness to mark the regeneration of the Lagan River (previously too polluted for fish to swim in), features a 10-meter-long salmon made of more or less blue ceramic and engraved with text telling the story of Belfast. Standing on the edge of the Lagan River, not far from the Albert Memorial Clock and the Customs House, the "big fish" fits perfectly into the skyline of new Belfast. A must-see if you're ever in the area.

Pavarotti made his debut there, Van Morrison recorded a live album in 1984 and Sarah Bernhardt, Orson Welles, Laurel and Hardy had already performed there long before... Grand Opera House, the largest theater in Northern Ireland, has been a fixture on the Belfast cultural scene since 1895. The building is a mixture of Victorian style with its red bricks and oriental influenced decorative elements with its minarets (English architect Frank Matcham). The theater hosts the greatest shows (ballets, operas, musicals ...).

It overlooks the River Ness. The Jacobites seized it in 1746. Its present pink appearance dates from a refurbishment from 1837 to 1847. It now houses a court of justice and a military garrison. The statue of Flora MacDonald, the heroine who helped Bonnie Prince Charlie in his escape, adorns its front and was sculpted by Andrew Davidson, a native of Inverness. If the visit of the castle is not possible, its top is however accessible to the public (Castle Viewpoint). From there, you can enjoy a 360 degree view on the city and the hinterland of the Highlands.

Formerly vast and deep, now very fragmented and protected, the Sherwood forest is forever linked to the adventures of Robin Hood. At the visitor reception desk, there are many itinerary suggestions, including the Major Oak Trail, Britain's largest oak tree. About 800 years old and with a circumference of 10 meters, its branches extend over 28 meters and it would weigh about 23 tons. This natural monument of great beauty now needs support to keep itself upright.... The charming village of Edwinstowe, which borders the forest, is home to St. Mary's Church, where Robin is said to have married sweet Marianne, and Rufford Abbey, surrounded by a lovely park with a lake.

It's impossible to miss this giant giant in the skyline of Liverpool. Inaugurated in 1969 by Queen Elizabeth, it was the highest building in the city, peaking at 138 metres. There was a restaurant on a rotating platform, but following a fire, the kitchens were moved to the ground floor. Then there was another problem: The dishes were not hot enough when they arrived on plates… All this sounds like a joke, and it is true! In the absence of any food, there are still uninterrupted panoramic views to Wales and Blackpool, in a clear time. Today, the tower hosts the studios of Radio City station, landed in 2000 after major renovations. And if it was détrônée by the West tower in 2008, it remains a landmark for all the city's tourists and night.

This colossus overlooking the hill was completed in 1815 to celebrate the victory of Trafalgar by the famous Admiral Nelson ten years earlier. In 1853, a huge sphere was installed on top of the Nelson Monument. Every day, at 1pm, she is hoisted up a mast and then released to give the time to the sailors of Leith. In its tiny museum, this story is told alongside some documents on the legendary naval battle that defeated Napoleon. At the top, the view is pleasant, but not much different from Calton Hill.

For those nostalgic for the Beatles, a short detour to the St John's Wood district will allow you to see Abbey Road Studios still in operation and where the Beatles' presence remains tenacious. Pilgrimage for unconditional fans, because there is nothing to see or do except for the mythical photo of the pedestrian crossing slightly below on the eponymous album - be careful, there may even be a line to pass over the famous white stripes. If you want to bring back a souvenir, go to the Beatles Store on Baker Street instead.

The beautiful th century building is worth a look at itself. For the amateurs, it contains a military museum presenting the story of three British regiments: Royal Berkshire Regiment, Wiltshire Regiment and Duke of Edinburgh's Royal Regiment, since 1743.

Bath, an elegant city filled with traditional heritage, contemporary culture, green spaces and a few surprises. Built for pleasure and relaxation, beautiful Bath has been a wellness destination since Roman times. The waters are still a big draw, both at the ancient Roman baths and the modern Thermae Bath Spa, home to Britain's only natural hot springs in which you can bathe. Immerse yourself in Bath's remarkable collection of museums and galleries, and enjoy festivals, theater, music and sports throughout the year. Bath's beautiful honey-colored Georgian architecture looks straight out of a Jane Austen novel - highlights include the iconic Royal Crescent and the majestic Circus. There's plenty to see beyond the city, with beautiful Somerset countryside to explore, as well as attractions such as Stonehenge, Avebury and Longleat Safari Park.

An American exhibition: patchwork, indigenous folk art, Massachusetts tavern, bedroom decorated with stencil, dining room of the 1830 s will lead you through the young history of the United States. The tea salon is especially valuable during the fine days. Find out about special events throughout the year at the Tourist Office.