Monuments to visit United Kingdom

This Elizabethan-style manor house was built in the 16th century by the Prideaux-Brune family, supposed descendants of William the Conqueror who still live there today. Its interior, richly decorated with magnificent ceilings, made it the location of many period films. Very beautiful view of the Camel River. The house offers a beautiful collection of artwork, including royal and family portraits, quality furniture and the Prideaux porcelain collection. The ceiling discovered in the Grand Chamber is a masterpiece.

From the lighthouse, it is possible to walk along the cliffs; follow the Coastal Path signs.

Visit of a mill, whose wheel is located under the house, and which works thanks to the tide. It is one of the few in Europe in a state of walking and capable of grinding according to traditional methods. Guided tour possible.

Mill built in 1845, still active.

A beautiful monastic ruin of the th century. A visitor information centre tells you about the past of the Cistercian Abbey. A pleasant location on the banks of the Area River, adds to the pleasure of the visit.

Built in 1117, Berkeley Castle's history begins with the meeting of the western barons who forced King John to sign the Magna Carta at Runnymede. It continues with the murder of Edward II in 1327 and Cromwell's siege in 1645 (he actually breached the wall, which is legally forbidden to repair). There are many fine interiors to visit, as well as a sublime English-style garden adorned with roses, rare plant species, shrubs and trees. A wonderful visit, typical of the region, and of English castles and their history.

From the imposing castle Normand built under the reign of Henry II, there is only one tower whose inclination more than 15 ° (more than the tower of Pisa) is at least worrying! The rest was demolished during the civil war. From the garden, we have a very nice view over the Severn and the valley.

See also across the city. Town Hall (Town Hall), St Leonard Church, and the street leading to it. Palmer's Hospital (1687, rebuilt in 1889). The Grammar School Dormitories (th century) once a teacher's house. Around the church, Richard Baxter's (th century). In High Street, the th century North Gate. At the same time, The King's Llead and the Swan St Mary's Street, according to a th century plan.

The house where Charles Dickens wrote David Copperfield. The pieces are decorated as they would have been in the th century.

Bishop's Palace dates back to the 13th century and has been modified many times over the centuries. It is the residence of the Bishop of Bath and Wells, who still lives within the walls of the north wing today. The building is open to visitors and it is interesting to discover its rich history and varied architectural styles. A special feature is that the swans in the gardens have been trained to ring the bell when they are hungry and are fed with wholemeal bread! A nice visit to make with the family.

In 1864, this 32-room Roman villa with baths and mosaics dating from the ^1st century A.D. was excavated. It is set in the heart of a beautiful valley. In the basement, you can visit the baths, kitchens, salons, temple and latrines of the period. It was later transformed into a large half-timbered manor house, and the audio commentary helps to recreate the atmosphere of the time. One of the largest Roman villas in Britain, it offers a rare insight into Roman life in the country.

Currently managed by Lord Mountbatten's grandson, the character who décolonisa the British Empire of India. The property of Broadlands will remind you all the statesmen who stayed there. It was designed and realized by Capability Brown, and the Yellow Dining Room or "Wedgwood" Blue Room will surprise you… The Mountbatten exhibition outlines the three careers of this man: the sailor, the statesman and the commander. A very classic visit, but in the sense of the word. Trout and salmon fishing in the Test River.

It's Bristol's star attraction. The SS Great Britain was born from the imagination of Isambard Brunel in 1843. Consecrated the largest ship in the world at the time, this colossus sailed to New York and Melbourne. It was also used to transport troops to the Crimea and India. An exhibition explains how it worked, which was revolutionary from a technical point of view. Thanks to a dry dock, one can go around the hull before going through the deck and its many parts.

This site is to be discovered both as a cultural place and as a space of artisanal and alternative stores. A heritage site, it is the former Victorian railway station that has been perfectly renovated. An exhibition with explanatory panels is held in the open air to tell the story of the station in its splendid period, when Strathpeffer was an international resort, as well as its role during the wars, then its abandonment and its new life, starting in the 1990s.

When passing through the Tongue area, don't miss the short walk to Castle Varrick Hill, which dominates the surroundings. It's not as long as it looks when you can see the castle in the distance! This fortress of the MacKay clan was built in the 14th century. Its remains offer beautiful views (it is possible to climb up the tower) and give a glimpse of the former glory of the site. The trail starts next to the RBS Bank at the corner of the A838. It is about 3 km long, with an easy ascent.

Spencer House, the historic family home of Diana, Princess of Wales (1961-1997), is one of London's most ambitious aristocratic residences and one of the last intact examples of an ^18th-century palace. Built between 1756 and 1766 by architects John Vardy and James "the Athenian" Stuart, it is a fine example of Palladian architecture. Inside, you'll find a fine collection of paintings and decorative objects, including five works by Benjamin West, graciously lent by Her Majesty the Queen.

Downhill Demesne: this neo-classical palace was built in the 18th century by the Earl and Bishop of Derry, Frederick Hervey, on the heights of Castlerock. Magnificent and excessive at the time - it was one of the largest in Ulster -, it is now in ruins and opens its gaping arches on the sky and the ocean. However, it gives off a ghostly and theatrical atmosphere that is quite fascinating. It is a must to go and soak up this magical atmosphere!

Mussenden Temple : opposite Downhill Demesne, Mussenden Temple is a small circular temple, still standing today. It was built in the perspective of the palace, at the edge of the cliff, about fifty meters above the sea. Following the cliff on the right, we arrive at the Black Glenn and Pond, an oasis of greenery obtained by a dam having retained sea water to form an artificial piece of water. We can see, in low angle, the crenellations of the stone belvedere, camouflaged under a thick foliage. You can then go back up to it, and continue exploring this park full of trees and plants of different species. In good weather, the visit is really an enchantment for the walkers. Not to be missed!

Hezlett House: 17th century Irish cottage, one of the few still intact in Northern Ireland. Furnished with rustic Victorian furniture, it has an elegant and rustic atmosphere.

Outside the city, on the road to Killylea, Navan Fort, also known as Emain Macha, is the main archaeological site in Ulster. It was the legendary capital of the ancient kings of Ulster 6,000 years ago. The visitor center explains its history and legends, as well as the work of archaeologists. It is one of the best museums in Ireland. Airy, warm, well laid out, maps, panels and audio explanations in several languages including French; this is a museum that, at the end of the visit, does not make your head hurt!

We visit the family house of the ancestors of Andrei Simpson Grant, 18 ^th President of the United States (1869-1877), completely remodelled as a genuine farm of times, only the furniture is not original.

Castle built by Sir James Balfour in 1618.

Dunninald Castle is a neo-Gothic style castle built in 1824. You can discover it on guided tours (approx. 40 min per tour). Beyond the castle we see today, the site has more than 1,000 years of history, and several fortified sites preceded the superb present building. The great wealth of the place also lies in its enclosed garden, at the height of its beauty in July. The walk in the surrounding woods (1 mile) offers beds of daffodils and hyacinths in the spring.

Legend attributes the discovery of this source to Bernard de Clairvaux, founder of the Cistercian order. This water would have cured him. Later, chemical analyses attest to its medical interest in soothing intestinal disorders. In 1788, a lord bought the spring and built a small neoclassical-inspired temple dedicated to the goddess of health, Hygieia. This picturesque building has been the subject of many paintings. Steps lead up to a terrace below the temple, from which there are beautiful views of the river.

Affectionately referred to as the "Squinty Bridge" by Glasgow residents, the Clyde Arc impresses with its elegant, contemporary curve that crosses the Clyde River at an angle. Officially opened on September 18, 2006, it was designed by Edmund Nuttall Ltd. who, thanks to its inventiveness, was able to win this monumental contract in 2002. The Clyde Arc, as much because of its futuristic asymmetry as because it opened up the banks of the Clyde, has become the symbol of Glasgow's urban renaissance.

Erected and owned by the MacSweens, Lochranza Castle dates back to the 13th century for its oldest part, and to the 15th and 16th centuries for the rest. Robert the Bruce is said to have passed through here in 1306. It was used around 1490 by James IV, then by Cromwell in 1650. In 1705, it passed under the yoke of the Hamilton family, before falling into disrepair during the 18th century. It is now protected by Historic Scotland. If you are a tintinophile, the silhouette of this castle will surely speak to you: it inspired the mysterious ruined castle of Ben More from the album L'Île Noire.

In the nearby market town of Wilton, Wilton House is an elegant noble residence that has belonged to the Earls of Pembroke for over 400 years. Enlarged and embellished over the years, it is an example of highly refined architecture and its interiors are of rare beauty. It is best known for its seven state rooms. The site also boasts some of England's first known formal gardens, with grottoes and water features, and has been the location for several films, including Barry Lindon and Pride and Prejudice.

A center of government since the Middle Ages and dating back to the ^15th century, Guildhall Great Hall has played an important role in royal history. Many state trials have also taken place here, including that of Lady Jane in 1553. The imposing medieval hall, adorned with stained glass windows, pays tribute to national heroes such as Admiral Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington and Sir Winston Churchill. Built in 1411, the building survived the Great Fire of London and is the only medieval stone structure dating from this period. It houses a gallery and bookshop.

Soar high to see Brighton and the beautiful south coast as you glide up to 138 metres in a futuristic-looking glass capsule. Designed by Marks Barfield Architects, creators of the London Eye, the tower can accommodate up to 175 visitors. A visualization map is available, a multilingual application can be downloaded and the Sky Bar, nestled in the centre of the gondola, serves drinks throughout the flight. Free exhibition on the construction of the tower and souvenir shop. A must-see during a stay in Brighton!

Situated on the coast south of Stromness, this battery is a precious witness to Orkney's military history. It was in service during both World Wars and was part of the Scapa Flow defences, as the main base of the Royal Navy fleet. The command post, mess, gun room, murals, and the lives of the soldiers are all told during 75-minute tours, which take place several times a week at varying times of the year, depending on the season.

Armadale Castle was the seat of the MacDonald of Sleat, a branch of the very powerful Donald clan. It was purchased by the Clan Donald Land Trust in 1971. The Museum of the Isles traces 1,500 years of clan history in the Islands and Highlands, with portraits of great chiefs, carved stones, reconstructions and a wealth of information in seven modern and educational galleries. There are pleasant gardens, where many walks are possible.

1 km north of Braemar stands this amazing keep flanked by turrets. Home of the Farquharson clan, it was built in 1628. It is filled with the collections accumulated by its owners. About fifteen rooms are visible and make this visit very complete and attractive. One discovers there in particular a ghost story or this anecdote about Stevenson: while he was on holiday in Braemar in the summer of 1881, 7 continuous weeks of rain shut him up in his office, offering us the first pages of Treasure Island.

Hidden beneath a perfectly innocuous Scottish farmhouse, this military bunker has been hiding in the bowels of the Kingdom of Fife for over 40 years. It was dug out during the Cold War to be one of the command posts of the United Kingdom and the refuge of the Scottish authorities in the event of a nuclear attack. It never served and fortunately became useless enough to become an attraction. It plunges underground into 2,230 square metres of tunnels, war room and accommodation, on two levels the size of two football pitches on top of each other.

This 400 th century castle is the historic headquarters of the Menzies clan and occupies a strategic and military place for more than years. Involved in Highland History, Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed there for the Culloden Battle. Its austere high walls are home to a few pieces in a charming and chic way, contrasting with its exterior appearance. This is due to the renovations he has endured over time, to move from a defensive fortress to a comfortable nobility residence.

In what is one of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in the city, the Tolbooth Museum, a well-preserved seventeenth-century prison, presents exhibits on local history. It tells the story of Aberdeen through crime, police, law, order and punishment of the time. The prison world is portrayed over the centuries and the old gloomy cells, through which many convicts passed, including 50 Jacobites after the Battle of Culloden, are explored.

This 15th century castle was built for the Ruthven clan and called the House of Ruthven for most of its existence. It was here that Mary Queen of Scots and Lord Darnley stayed during the Chaseabout Raid. The visit is an opportunity to discover this dramatic historical episode on site. The castle consists of two towers and a great hall, which brought them together in the 17th century. There are some beautiful painted ceilings and plasterwork, dating from around 1540. A treasure hiding place is also to be discovered: a cupboard in a closet, hidden by a stone.

A 16th century fortified manor house on the banks of the River Tay, Elcho Castle is remarkably well preserved. The historic holiday home of the Wemyss family, it is one of the best preserved buildings of its time in the region. You can walk through all the rooms, including the interesting kitchen, and enjoy the beautiful view from the top. The interior is not furnished, but still has its original features. Perhaps you will see the new tenants of the place: pipistrelles, frightened owls and grey squirrels?

Kisimul Castle is the only true medieval castle still visible in the Outer Hebrides. Set in Castlebay, it is the seat of the MacNeils of Barra. It was built in the ^15th century on its splendid site, but they arrived on the island as early as the ^11th century. It was completely restored by a descendant of the family in the ^20th century. You can walk around its 3 floors and take a boat tour (included in the price) when it is open to the public. Be careful, it is currently under construction, you can only see it from the outside.

Built in the 12th century, the castle of Dirleton was the residence of three noble families for 400 years: the de Vauxes, the Haliburtons and the Ruthvens. The latter plotted here against Mary Stuart and James VI. It was during the Wars of Independence that he entered most deeply into Scottish history. It was largely devastated during Cromwell's Civil War, before the land was bought back in the 1660s to build a manor house. Beautiful Victorian and Arts & Crafts gardens are also laid out here.

Newhailes is a pleasant villa of the 17th century on a vast wooded park. If its front may seem a little austere, it has been finely decorated, in particular thanks to the Dalrymple family who was influential in the Enlightenment movement. The decorative elements are original, like Chinese wallpaper. The guided tour lasts 75 min. There is a 45 min version available at a reduced price (bookings possible). The Weehailes Park is fun for children.

Owned by the Dalyell family since 1612, this interesting house reflects the architectural trend of the time, which sought to combine defensive fortifications with space and comfort. Its large white façade is enhanced by turrets and behind the windows are rooms of great aesthetic quality. Among other things, you can see refined paintings, porcelain and rich furniture from the end of the ^19th and beginning of the ^20th century. Specific times for guided tours to be checked. The estate is more accessible.

If John Muir is not very well known in France, he is a great star in Scotland, but especially in the United States, where he emigrated in 1849 with his parents and became a great defender of the national parks. He is partly responsible for California's Yosemite National Park or Sequoia National Park. In this house where he was born, we discover his life, his travels and the vast legacy he left us. Some excerpts from his journals allow us to follow in his footsteps and share his love for nature and the wild world.

Sir Walter Scott came here regularly as a child and Smailholm Tower was then on the grounds of his grandfather's farm. She has inspired the artist a lot and appears in his poem Marmion. This 15th century fortified tower, perched on a rock above a lake, is a very evocative image of the Borders, of which it is a symbol. It is 20 metres high and has walls 2.50 metres thick, spread over four floors. From its imposing summit, you can see as far as the English castle of Bamburgh on a clear day.

Castle Campbell or Castle of Glooms - it's the same one, called differently - overlooks Dollar. This ^15th century castle dominates the valley with its medieval silhouette. Home of the Earls of Argyll - the heads of the Campbell clan - it is impressive for the panorama it offers and its central keep, 20 meters high. It first belonged to the Stuart clan. Mary Queen of Scots and John Knox stayed there. You can park below and access it by going up a waterfall, through a wooded and green area of great beauty. The gardens are also very pretty.

Built at the beginning of the 16th century, this castle was well ahead of its time. Its creator and owner, Sir James Hamilton of Finnart, had spent his early years abroad to perfect his knowledge of architecture and fortification. When his father died in 1529, he returned to Scotland to become one of the most powerful lords of the south and a friend of King James V. He fell into disgrace and was executed in 1540 and his descendants occupied Craignethan Castle until 1579. The building was immortalized by Sir Walter Scott in The Puritans of Scotland (1816).

Built in the heart of Stranraer around 1500 by Ninian Adair of Kilhurst, one of Wigtownshire's most powerful Lairds, this dungeon served as a dwelling, court, prison and garrison in turn, during the persecution of the Covenantaires. Transformed into an attraction in the 1980's, it is now a place where you can learn about its history and uses over time. The view from the top covers the whole city and its surroundings. You can take the castle as a starting point for the Town Trail, which will take you on a tour of the riches of Stranraer.

Considered a pioneer of Romanticism, Robert Burns was for a long time a peasant and gardener. He drew on this connection to nature and his land to write such renowned works as It's Only Goodbye or Tam O'Shanter. The vast museum brings together some 5,000 objects linked to him: manuscripts, portraits and personal effects. You can also visit the cottage where he was born on January 25, 1759, and where he spent seven years of his childhood.

It is the seat of the government of Northern Ireland. This huge white building in neoclassical style was erected in 1932 according to the plans of Sir Arnold Thornely, who was knighted by George V for his architectural talents. The beautiful symmetry of the building and its six entrance columns beautifully dominate the vast, freely accessible park. Visits are possible to discover the entrails of this place with an eventful history, a pillar of reconciliation between Republicans and Protestants.

An iconic landmark, this architecturally attractive building was opened in 1925. It belongs to the University of Bristol and houses the university's law and earth sciences departments. It is here that the university's prestigious graduation ceremonies are held. Visits are rare but well worth the detour. You can see the great hall, the Council Chamber and the libraries, all of which are very interesting. From the top of the 78-metre tower, the view is superb - not to be missed!

Appreciated for its beautiful architecture and red brickwork, the Cabot Tower in Brandon Hill Park is one of the city's best-known landmarks. It was built in 1897 to commemorate the voyage of John Cabot, the Italian navigator in the service of England, between Bristol and North America four hundred years earlier. The park, with its water-lily pond, is a pleasant place to stroll. You can then climb to the top of the tower, free of charge, for beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area. But beware: the stairs are very steep!

Abertaff House is gradually opening to the public. The site presents exhibitions in a space which, in 2019, was still modest, but which should evolve rapidly over the months and years to become a cultural Mecca in Inverness. Abertaff House is a superb townhouse built on two and a half floors, built in 1593 and which, after being owned by a bank, came under the yoke of the National Trust for Scotland in 1963. Since 2022, there is a cosy tea room. Discover the history of Inverness and the National Trust sites.

There are two Inverlochy Castles: the recent one, which has become a luxury hotel, and the old one, in ruins, which can be discovered freely, a little away from the city. Old Inverlochy Castle is located in a strategic defensive position in relation to the river Lochy. It dates back to the 13th century and played a key role in 1645 when the Earl of Montrose, Royalist, defeated the forces of the chief of the Campbell clan, the Duke of Argyll: this was the second battle of Inverlochy. In 1654 it was abandoned in favour of a wooden fort, replaced by a stone fort, and named Fort William.

This castle is confidential and is not indicated anywhere or almost anywhere. It is signposted on some hiking routes, notably from Dramlanrig castle, but not from the road. You will have to drive on unpaved roads, but this beautiful ruin is worth a look. Indeed, it has a superb setting, on a triangular promontory above the water. Several explanatory panels allow you to discover what it may have been like at the time of its splendour, and also to understand its architecture.