At first sight, you'd be forgiven for thinking the British are obsessed with history. Look at any tourist board advertisement for the United Kingdom, and you'll most likely to see images of London's Tower Bridge, the prehistoric ring of Stonehenge, probably a pretty rose-clad country cottage, and maybe a sun-drenched seaside resort with its Victorian pier stretching out into the sea. Be it military or civilian, it's almost impossible to travel any distance without stumbling across some historic building. Villages throughout the land will have churches and houses dating back hundreds of years. Towns will have impressive civic buildings built with money from the days of the British Empire . Norman and medieval fortifications are particularly common in south and central England , castles line the Welsh coast, and Hadrian's Wall remains as one of the grandest Roman structures to survive anywhere.

But when a nation has such a long and varied past, and at one time ruled over almost half the world, it's not hard to appreciate why the population remain so fiercely proud of its heritage. The relics of centuries of warfare, battles, and occupation, are still the reason many tourists head here.

To dismiss these islands merely as an historical attraction, however, would be very remiss. From the rugged coastline of south west England , to the snow capped peaks of the Scottish Highlands. From the towering White Cliffs of Dover, to the bewildering rock formations of Northern Ireland's Giants' Causeway, the UK is a truly beautiful and awe inspiring land.

Modern day Britain has vibrant cities, with buzzing music scenes and busy shopping centres, which sit happily alongside lush rolling countryside, cricket on the village green, and a pint of traditional ale at the local pub.

London is one of the most impressive cities in the World to visit, largely because of the huge number of places you could add to your ‘must see' list. To the south-east, the county of Kent , known as ‘The Garden of England', is home to the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral, some of the most beautiful castles and stately homes, and the coastal resorts of Folkestone and Dover . This is the closest you will get to mainland Europe, but tread carefully if you refer to the British people as ‘Europeans'. Geographically, politically, and on every official document, the United Kingdom is certainly part of Europe . But ask most of the population of the UK , and they will tell you Europeans are the people living the other side of the English Channel .

Neither though, will you leave with the impression the United Kingdom is actually united. The Welsh still harbour centuries old feelings of independence, and the Scots and English still have an unmistakeable, if now amicable, rivalry. The people are warm and welcoming, wherever you choose to visit. But there are intruiging differences in cultures and personalities, not just between the different countries, but even from region to region.

The landscape also changes continuously. The south coast has rolling green hills, tall cliffs, and popular beaches. East Anglia is a vast, predominantly flat, patchwork of fields and waterways, which slowly give way to the fertile, undulating greenery of middle England . Continue westwards, and the hills become the mountains of Wales , ending with the dramatic coastline of the Irish Sea, with miles of peaceful unspoilt beaches. The highest and most spectacular scenery is that of northern Scotland , with the tallest mountains in Britain , remote settlements, and untamed rivers heading to deep, dark, lakes. Not as high, but just as impressive, are the wild Yorkshire Moors, and beautiful Lake District, both in Northern England . Cross the sea, and Northern Ireland has enticing green countryside, and the stark rocky Atlantic coastline.

With such a rapidly changing environment, the U.K. is a great country to travel in. You'll experience something different around every corner, and wonder how on earth so much is packed in to just a few small islands.

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Dundee

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Giant's Causeway

Glasgow

Hadrians Wall

Inverness

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Oxford

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Snowdonia

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Stonehenge

Stratford upon Avon

Tunbridge Wells

Weymouth

Yarmouth

York

Blackpool

A positive mecca for tourists, Blackpool is a seaside playground with attractions for everyone. Probably the most popular coastal resort in the UK, the town is dominated by Blackpool Tower, reaching to a height of 158 metres above the glamorous Tower Ballroom.  Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach amusement park presents the tourist with a wide variety of rides, whilst the beach itself is a sandy paradise for relaxation. The three piers stretching out from the beach offer a range of shops and yet more amusements and rides, whilst those who prefer water fun are catered for in the Sandcastle Park near the South Pier. Blackpool’s famous Illuminations light up the seafront between August and November, 11 kilometres of display lights. A tram ride is another essential during a visit here; they date back to 1885 and still running throughout the town. The fun theme of the town continues into the evening with theatres and variety shows to visits, and numerous restaurants catering for all tastes. Exhibitions not to be missed include Madame Tussauds and Dr Who. Blackpool now boasts its own Gay Pride celebration, and there is a proliferation of gay bars and clubs in the town, welcoming that sector of the community. 

Bradford

The jewel in Bradford’s crown is probably the National Media Museum, most visited museum outside London, and incorporating three cinemas. Alongside this collection from film and television, Bradford houses several traditional art galleries, including a large David Hockney collection. A thriving festival scene welcomes visitors throughout the year, and includes events celebrating film and literature. Bradford Mela is an old established Asian festival, showcases all aspects of their colourful culture, and welcomes visitors annually to enjoy the celebrations with the locals. The strong Asian culture is reflected in the restaurant scene also, with a huge number of curry houses to choose from. One of Bradford’s attractions is its ethnic diversity as showcased in the Mela, and visitors can enjoy more of this wandering amongst the wide variety of religious buildings around the city. Historically Bradford has many excellent Victorian buildings, and the cemetery at Undercliffe is worth a visit to view the amazingly ornate headstones. Bradford has many parks and gardens for a relaxing afternoon walking, and there is a boating lake for the slightly more energetic visitor. The city is also well-placed as a base for those tourists wishing to visit Ilkley Moor, Haworth, and the beautiful countryside around.

Cambridge

The university city of Cambridge has a relaxed atmosphere of learning set against a backdrop of the arts. The beautiful architecture of many of the colleges draws visitors from far afield, and most of the buildings are open for visitors to walk around. The college buildings are a fascinating architectural mix, with many different styles, and sights not to be missed include the Bridge of Sighs and the Pepys Library. Magdalene owns a selection of half-timbered buildings, while parts of Corpus Christi date from the 1350s. As befits such a centre of learning, museums and galleries are found here in abundance, ranging from the Fitzwilliam Museum, the main University collection with many fine masterpieces of art, to the Folk Museum, with its portrayal of life in rural Cambridgeshire. Surrounding the colleges and churches are several ornamental gardens hosting various displays of colourful plants and flowers. Book-loving visitors will find Cambridge is a veritable paradise for them with a multitude of shops to peruse. For the more energetic tourist, punting and rowing await; punts can be hired on the River Cam, and what more romantic way to spend an afternoon than partaking of champagne and strawberries while gliding along the river?

Chester

An ancient, picturesque town with many excellent examples of black and white architecture, some of it medieval, as are parts of Chester Castle. Also boasting Britain’s most complete city wall, which can be walked on a 3 kilometre circuit, encompassing several historic bridges and towers, Churches, former monastic buildings, and a fine cathedral show the importance of religion to the history of this part of England. The cathedral dates back to the Norman days, and parts of the city are even older, dating from Roman times. An amphitheatre just outside the walls is the crowning glory of this section of Chester’s long and historical past. The River Dee and Shropshire Union Canal offer cruises from The Groves, which allow the visitor to catch the atmosphere of the city from the water, whilst plays and festivals staged in the summer capture the spirit of the city’s historic and artistic legacy. As an alternative to the historical theme, the city offers Chester Zoo, a fine example of this type of attraction, whilst a golf course, rowing clubs and a nationally renowned racecourse are included in the wide variety of sporting activities through which the tourist can mix with the friendly local people.

Coventry

Coventry’s main attraction is St Michael’s Cathedral, one of the newest in the world. Positioned next to the remains of the old building which was bombed to destruction during the Second World War, St Michael’s houses many interesting artifacts, including a cross made from nails from the ruined building, and Graham Sutherland’s world famous “Christ in Glory” tapestry. A city rich in a history related to transport boasts the Midland Air Museum, as well as its own Transport Museum, featuring a record-breaking collection of cars, and a more mainstream museum and art gallery. A reconstructed Roman fort just outside the city is worth a visit, and there is also a police museum at the city’s main Police Station for those who enjoy the more sinister side of a city’s past. An Olympic-sized swimming pool, and well established football club form part of the sporting side of the city, whilst the Coventry Jazz Festival, and the Godiva Festival showcase the excellent musical side of Coventry and are well worth a visit for the relaxed tourist. There are several theatres around the city, and events also take place in the open, such as at the War Memorial Park and Butts Park Arena.

Derby

An industrial and manufacturing centre, Derby shows its picturesque side with many parks, and two rivers. It boasts a world-class arboretum, and a diverse collection of wildlife to give the tourist a real glimpse of the countryside within an urban environment. The industrial past is commemorated in the Derby Industrial Museum, covering the city’s many technological achievements, and mapping the past of local firms such as Rolls Royce. Railways, mines, and the mysterious Derby Gaol Dungeon form an important part of the heritage which awaits the curious visitor. The Art Gallery houses a fantastic collection of works, and the Pickford’s Museum commemorates life in Georgian times, Royal Crown Derby offers a factory tour and a museum charting the history of the world famous china, with a restaurant for relaxation afterwards. The especial attraction of Derby cathedral is the peregrine falcons which have nested in the tower in recent years, but the building is also worth a visit for its bells and some excellent brasses. The tower dates from Henry VIII, though the rest of the cathedral is from the 1700s. Proximity to the Peak District also attracts visitors to the city, and it forms an excellent base for touring that region.

Durham

The twin ancient delights of Durham’s cathedral and castle await visitors to this stately northern settlement, both dating back to around 1000AD. Deep inside Durham Castle lies St Cuthbert’s coffin and many other items of historical note, giving a glimpse into the life of a seventh century saint. Another interesting, though very different, collection is the Light Infantry Museum and Art Gallery, chronicling the history of the local regiment. Returning to the fresh air, the Botanical Gardens are well worth a visit, acres of woodland and greenery, hosting many events to keep all the family amused, and the banks of the River Wear are an excellent spot for a peaceful walk. Durham is also an excellent base for trips out into the surrounding countryside, where the sights include High Force Waterfall, and typical rugged Yorkshire villages. Then spend the evening relaxing in one of the city’s pubs, many of them ancient watering holes serving a variety of Real Ales – one of the by-products of a large student population. England’s most haunted pub is in Durham, so sign up for the Ghost Walk around the city and then if you fancy a fright with your drink head for the Shakespeare Tavern.

Gloucester

A beautiful and historic city on the banks of the River Severn, a waterway which dominates the life of the local people. The National Waterways Museum commemorates a lot of the city’s past. The cathedral is a magnificent building, used in many films – Harry Potter devotees include it on their pilgrimages to film locations. Other ancient churches are scattered around the city, as are many medieval and Tudor buildings, an example of which is the New Inn, dating back to 1450 when pilgrims used to rest there. Festivals of various kinds are held frequently in Gloucester, the jewel in the crown being the Three Choirs Festival held here every third year. For a different type of music there is the Rhythm and Blues Festival, and the Cajun and Zydeco Festival, a  Louisiana –style three day extravaganza. A Medieval Fayre each year celebrates the historical side of the city. Gloucester County Cricket Club holds a festival each year too, and there is a large dry ski slope for the really energetic visitor. Other attractions include Llanthony Secunda Priory, the remains of a once important outlying post of a Monmouthshire  abbey where open-air events and displays are put on for visitors today.

Guildford

Perched atop the chalk ridge of the Surrey hills, Guildford Cathedral is an imposing modern building, and is well worth a visit, especially as a contrast to the older cathedrals of England. Guildford Castle dates back to Saxon times, and the bustling high street  contains many historic buildings and sections of cobblestones. Specific buildings worth the visitor’s attention include the Guildhall, its Stuart clock overhanging the street, and St Catherine’s Chapel – reached by a short walk along the River Wey. Organised trips run along the river, and boats and canoes can be hired here, while for the less energetic a seat by the river is a peacful way to while away the hours. Festivals drawing the visitor to Guildford include a festivals of books and music, and Farnborough International Airshow is held nearby, an extravaganza not to be missed for anyone with a passing interest in flight. The city runs guided tours, covering legends, ghosts and historical areas.  The RHS Wisley Gardens are a pleasure to visit, with many interesting plants and trees for those who like the outdoor life, and there are many other parks and National Trust properties in the locale, with views across the rolling Surrey countryside.

Harrogate

Originally a spa town and renowned for the health-giving properties of its water, Harrogate is located on the age of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, and the city has many open-air areas, such as The Stray for those who enjoy parkland walking. The RHS Harlow Carr gardens on the edge of the town are a more formal display. For the gastronomically inclined visitor, Betty’s Tea Rooms are delightful – the company makes Yorkshire Tea, which is served with various mouthwatering cakes. The Great Yorkshire Show takes place every year, and it is worth timing a visit to coincide with this large event. Nearby Menwith Hill is a more unusual sight, a military installation visible for miles, it resembles a collection of giant golfballs. The town has one of Europe’s largest exhibition and conference centres, and is always full of visitors from far afield. Royal Hall Theatre, the only surviving Kursaal in Britain, and the Mercer Art Gallery, are worth a visit for those visitors of a cultural persuasion. Harrogate is a very wealthy town, and many of its homes reflect this. High Harrogate, around The Stray, has some beautiful houses, and the town itself basks in a wonderful air of quiet gentility.

Leeds

Major attractions in this northern city include a national collection of arms and amour in the Royal Armouries, among the worlds oldest museums. Exhibits include items from the Spanish Inquisition as well as England’s own past. Harewood House, home of the Lascelles family, is just outside the city and appeals to a large number of visitors. Museums and art galleries are scattered throughout Leeds, Arnley Mills Industrial Museum celebrates the engineering heritage of the area, while Thackray Museum chronicles England’s medical past, with examples of implements and treatments. Many tourists are tempted here by its many international festivals, which include International Pianoforte Festival and the Leeds West Indian Carnival, as well as by performances from the citys own opera and ballet companies. There is an interesting mix of bars, pubs and clubs in which to unwind, but if you prefer open air then visit Roundhay Park, a central area of garden, woodland and lake, incorporating a large collection of birds and reptiles among the exotic exhibits of Tropical World. Roundhay proudly boasts garden areas for blind people, with strongly scented flowers, and braille inscriptions. Sport is also strongly represented in the city, including football, cricket and nearby racing at Wetherby.

Leicester

A thoroughly multi-cultural city, Leicester has attractions for people of all nationalities and tastes. A Caribbean Carnival, huge Diwali festival, Leicester Pride, and an international film festival are among the annual performances which entertain visitors, along with the UKs largest comedy festival. If visitors are of a sporting bent, the 2008 European City of Sport has a huge variety of games to either watch or partake in. Alongside football, cricket, rugby and the horse racing scene, motorcycle speedway and cycling are big local sports; cycling taking place on tracks and on the road. Leicester has a huge interest in cycling, with many national tracks passing through the city, and the largest bicycle parking area in the UK. The Grand Union Canal and River Soar are also a major attraction, rambling and horse-riding take place along the banks of both waterways, angling is popular here, and cruises in narrow-boats along the river are a wonderful way to spend a few days. Watermead Country Park lies near the two and has many lakes which are also a focus for tourists seeking water-based enjoyment. Back on dry land the National Space Centre offers a wonderful collection including a Soyuz Spacecraft and a planetarium,

Lincoln

The main draw to Lincoln for many visitors is the historical buildings; castle, cathedral, and medieval Bishops Palace are the most famous, but the city is steeped in history and there are whole streets of shops and houses dating back many centuries, such as Bailgate. The original cathedral and the oldest parts of the castle date from the 1100s, a well preserved castle, it commands wonderful views across the surrounding countryside, and many tourists visit to see the copy of the Magna Carta held here. Lincoln Cathedral houses a library of ancient manuscripts, and the famous stone carving of the Lincoln Imp, as well as many tombs and religious treasures. The Collection is the name given to the combined museum and art gallery, which includes exhibits from the archeological excavations around Lincolnshire, and many hours can be wiled away looking at the wonders of the building itself as much as at the displays. Returning to the fresh air, other attractions in the area include the Red Arrows base of RAF Scampton, and the Cadwell Park motor-racing circuit. Quieter relaxation can be found at the Joseph Banks Conservatory, a collection of tropical plants in the tranquil area known as The Lawn.

Maidstone

The centre of the Kent’s Garden of England, and a hub for the local brewing industry, Maidstone is a quiet town which nevertheless offers plenty for visitors. The River Medway draws tourists to its river festival – the river is popular with pleasure boat owners who share it with houseboats, making for a colourful scene to watch. .Many walkers visit Maidstone while traversing the 246 kilometre North Downs Way, or the Medway Valley Walk, as the town offers a choice of restaurants and places for a well-earned break. The historic town centre is pleasant to with several large pedestrianised areas, making it a peaceful and relaxing place for a break. The town is also a mecca for shoppers, with modern centres like Fremlin Walk offering a good choice of purchases. The centre is built on the site of the old Fremlin’s Brewery, relics of which can be found amongst other local artifacts in Maidstone’s Museum. The town is an excellent touring centre for visitor wishing to drive around the villages of this delightful part of the world. The Garden of England is best viewed in summer, but even in winter still offers lovely villages to explore and welcoming pubs for lunch.

Manchester

To visit Manchester and do it justice takes some days; a former industrial city, now a thriving area with an exciting air about it. A multitude of places chronicle the city’s past, including the cathedral, the Town Hall, and the John Rylands Library, all of which welcome visitors. Chetham’s Library also houses a wonderful collection of rare books. The Museum of Science and History incorporates an old railway station, and the Imperial War Museum North commemorates war on the home front and the battlefield. Another notable collection is the Jewish Museum, and a proliferation of other galleries and museums await the tourist with an enquiring mind. Various areas of Manchester are associated with different groups in society; The Village, around Canal Street, is the gay centre of the city – converted cotton warehouses now reverburate with music as they form the centre of the Manchester clubbing scene, while Chinatown centres around George Street and contains many restaurants and shops, now patronised by the English community as much as the Chinese. The Curry Mile is self-explanatory, heaven for fans of this kind of food. Festivals bring the city to life even more – examples include comedy, jazz, Gay Pride and the Irish Festival.

Northampton

Northampton boasts many historical religious buildings, and is an excellent place to visit for anyone interested in this area. The oldest is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, dating from 1100, All Saints Church was rebuilt after a fire, but retains a medieval tower, and Delapre Abbey is an old Clunaic convent, reputedly haunted by a nun. The Eleanor Cross at nearby Hardingstone was the resting place of Queen Eleanor’s coffin for a night en route to London in 1291, while the King spent the night in Northampton Castle, of which little remains. Northampton is dotted with parks, including Racecourse Park which hosts the annual Balloon Festival, and Billing Aquadrome, which incorporates a marina and funfair, and has a family-friendly pub in which to relax when the energy runs out. The manufacturing history of Northampton is charted in the local Museum, through its display of footwear, and there are several art galleries and music venues spread throughout the town to provide entertainment. The Nen Whitewater Centre provides outdoor fun with water-skiing and canoeing, and swimmng, cricket and stock-car racing are other popular local sports, along with Northampton Town football team, whose enthusiastic fans welcome visitors to games with great enthusiasm.

Norwich

This sprawling East Anglian city has many treasures awaiting its visitors. The cathedral dates back to medieval times, with a highlight of over 1000 bosses in the vault, each with a different religious image, and the second highest spire in England. Dragon Hall is a trading post from the 1400s, and Cow Tower, which stands near Norwich’s River Wensum, dates from around the same time. Norfolk Castle is now a museum, home to many interesting exhibits, including a butterfly collection. Mustard company Colman’s is located in Norwich, and their legacy to the city is the The Mustard Shop, a thriving retail outlet. Many of Norwich’s buildings are fine examples of 19th century architecture, a period when Norwich was really thriving. Moving to more modern attractions, The Forum is an amazing new construction, housing the Millenium Library, and BBC Radio station, and with an amphitheatre at the front which is used for displays and exhibitions. The aforementioned library houses the 2nd Airborne Division Memorial Collection, commemorating American Air Force presence nearby. The University of East Anglia has provided several openings for the art, music and drama, and most performances welcomes visitors, while the Norfolk and Norwich Festival draws tourists in annually.

Nottingham

The very name of Nottingham conjures up images of Robin Hood and Sherwood Forest; and the city commemorates its famous outlaw in many ways, with tourists heading to explore the Forest and the Castle. Nottingham’s sandstone ground has proven perfect for the development of a series of caves, once used as air raid shelters and now a major attraction not to be missed. Museums abound here, housing subjects ranging from industrial to costume to the arts, whilst music lovers will find many big names to enjoy at the Arena and Royal Concert Hall. Nottingham Arboretum, and Wollaton Park are the pick of numerous green areas within the city, while those who prefer to relax with sport will find themselves well catered for with two stunning football clubs, Nottingham Forest and Notts County based here, and a first class county cricket team. The National Watersports Centre at Holme Pierrepont has some of the best facilities in the world for sports like water-skiing, and the National Ice Centre not only hosts skating but also ice hockey. After all this exercise, pub lovers will make a beeline for Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, England’s oldest Inn dates from 1189 and houses its own museum.

Plymouth

Plymouth has a proud past, closely linked to the country’s naval history. Plymouth Hoe links the city back to the 1600s, with Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse, the Royal Citadel, built to defend Plymouth against invaders, and several war memorials, including the National Armada Memorial. The city itself has many cobbled streets, giving a historical feel throughout, and many old buildings spread around. The Barbican area is particularly of interest; the Pilgrim Fathers sailed from here to America, and their departure is commemorated by the Mayflower Steps. Boat trips along the Sound and the Tamar River depart from here, and are a wonderful way to spend a few hours. Devonport Dockyard, and its warships are visible on some of these trips. The Naval Dockyard is also open for viewing on a couple of days each year, and for those with an interest in this side of history it is well worth timing your Plymouth visit to coincide with an Open Day here. For relaxation, the city boasts open parkland, theatres and cinemas, but also holds many festivals throughout the year, welcoming visitors and locals alike. The British Firework Championships is one of the best of these, drawing a huge crowd each year.

Poole

A tourist resort and seaport, built around a natural harbour, and boasting family-friendly beaches, A bustling town with some interesting historical architecture, Poole’s Guildhall is one of the finest examples of the listed buildings, now housing the local court. Cross-Channel passenger and freight services operate from here, but a wander round the town before getting onboard is well worthwhile. Cruises around the harbour operate from the Quay, where the old warehouses now house a mixture of pubs, restaurants and apartments. Brownsea Island nature reserve lies just offshore, delightful to visit on a local boat trip, but if you’d rather stay on terra firma, relax on one of the award-winning beaches, among the best in Britain. A number of parks are found throughout the town, offering attractions to keep both children and adults amused, activities include tennis and miniature golf, while the lake hosts many water-sports including kayaking. Angling, diving, waterskiing and kite-surfing all take place in the sheltered waters of the harbour. A thriving yacht club can be found here as well. Back on dry land, visit the Arts Centre and relax at one of the plays, films or concerts hosted at the largest provincial arts complex in the UK.

Preston

Built on the banks of the River Ribble, Preston welcomes visitors with a number of museums and historic buildings. Tulketh Mills is a good example of industrial architecture of the north of England, and Preston Prison is also a fine example of its kind. The Harris Museum houses many local artifacts that make it of interest to the visitor, art, literature and other items, whilst the town is also home to the National Football Museum and the Queens Lancashire Regiment Museum. The Ribble Steam Railway Museum houses both old and new examples of the genre, and is one of the largest collections of its type in existence. Returning to the architectural side of the city, there are some excellent examples of Georgian buildings in the older squares, while the St Walburga Church is worth a visit for its tall spire, and Preston attracts many tourists from many denominations, holding a major role in Mormon history, for example. More of a business centre than a tourism mecca, Preston is nevertheless an interesting town, and also offers good shopping centres, and many parks for relaxation, and can be used as a good base for exploring the western Pennines and the Fylde area.

Sheffield

Sheffield is more of a modern city than a historic one, with examples of good recent architecture awaiting the visitor. Large areas of urban parkland and woodland help to make a welcoming environment, and many areas of the city have wildlife and plants of special interest. Formal and indoor gardens’ are also spread throughout the city, including the Peace Gardens and the Botanical Gardens, and there is a large collection of farm animals at Groves Park to entertain the children There is a flourishing arts scene waiting to welcome the culturally inclined visitor, with theatres, four art galleries and several museums, The industrial heritage of the city is celebrated at museums such as Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet – built on a site used for iron forging for hundreds of years, it is a working museum using water power to produce steel. Weston Park Museum is a more traditional collection, but again aims to entertain children as well as adults, though with more standard works. Sheffield also has a Walk of Fame, echoing that in Hollywood, but celebrating its own homegrown stars. Music lovers are catered for whatever their tastes, with the Sheffield Arena welcoming players and musicians from all over the world.

Windsor

World-famous for its castle, which dominates the town, Windsor offers plenty of attractions for the tourist. With the royal residence so close, Windsor has many restaurants and hotels, as well as high quality shops, both of the regular kind and an abundance of gift shops. The Castle is an essential place to visit, and the majority of it is open to the public. As the largest inhabited castle in the world, and the oldest in continuous occupation, both building and grounds are worth a thorough viewing. For those who are young at heart, or looking for some fun, Legoland is a wonderful place to spend a day, both viewing and playing with the bricks. A relaxing way to while away the time is to travel on the cruise boats on the Thames from where tourists can view the Castle and the town at its best, and recently the opening of the Windsor Wheel has opened up the possibility of viewing the area from the air during the summer months. For visitors seeking a cultural experience, the Windsor Festival offers a wide programme of entertainment, with plays, musical events, art displays, tours and walks amongst the delights offered to the visitor.

York

The medieval city of York is still encircled by its ancient walls, which form a popular 5 kilometre walk for more energetic tourists.  York Minster, a large Gothic cathedral, dominates the city, from a site which has been home to a church since 630, though the structure has been rebuilt many times, partly due to fires – most recently in 1984. A magnificent collection of bells rings out at intervals daily; the stained glass windows are a wonderful sight, and other attractions such as the choir screen make the Minster an unmissable visit for tourists.  Other ancient sights worth seeing are the Shambles, a collection of small shops and tearooms in a narrow medieval street, and the Shickelways, narrow alleyways running through the city centre. York is a multitude of museums –National Railway Museum, Jorvik Viking Centre, and Richard III Museum being but a few examples. The Railway Museum has such diverse delights as the Flying Scotsman, and the Yorkshire Wheel – northern answer to the London Eye.  A lively musical scene can be found here, with performances all year round, and for those with more of an eye for sport there is an excellent racecourse, and a thriving motorcycle speedway track.

Aberdeen
Aberdeen is one of the oldest and most historical cities in Scotland. Established in the 12th Century as a fishing town, its position on the River Don in the Grampian region was vital to its development and growth. Today, over 210,000 people live in Aberdeen and tourism is booming, but what can the Silver City offer you?
Aberdeen is widely known as the “Flower of Scotland” as a direct result of its outstanding natural beauty. With amazing parks, gardens and natural countryside a little way away from the city, it is a sight to behold. Official figures report the existence of 11 million daffodils, 3 million crocuses and 2 million roses in Aberdeenshire, which should give an insight into just how much work goes into maintaining the natural beauty. Visiting the stunning Winter Gardens at Duthie Park will enable every visitor to experience it first hand.
The city of Aberdeen itself is full of beautiful architecture, amazing history and modern activities, thus catering for the needs and wants of every visitor. From the Marischal Museum and Aberdeen Maritime Museum to St Machar’s Cathedral to the Music Hall to the theatres, there really is something for everyone.
Eating out in Aberdeen is a delight. With cafes, restaurants and various cuisine on offer, delicious dishes are readily available at a range of prices. Accommodation is also available at a range of prices, with hotels, motels, hostels, bed and breakfast facilities and rented apartments all present in the city.
For full details of what Aberdeen can offer and everything you need to know, please download the full guide here.

Dundee
The cities of Scotland are diverse and have a wealth of activities for all visitors, none more so than Dundee. Dundee is the fourth largest city in Scotland with a population of 142,000 as of 2005. Located on the Firth of Tay in the region named Tayside after the river, Dundee’s industry and economy has been based around the waters for some time but that is not to say that visitors to the area cannot enjoy it because there is plenty to see and do.
Dundee is a magical area of Scotland that as been inhabited for over 2000 years. As such, it has a rich cultural and historical tapestry that any visitor can fully appreciate. With award winning tourist attractions sharing space with breathtaking scenery, everyone can combine the attractions that suit them with a slice of the Scottish lifestyle for a few days.
Dundee is the home of the romantic Glamis Castle, the spectacular and rugged Highland Glens and Victorian markets. There are also world class leisure facilities, such as golf courses, hiking trails and healthy fishing areas. However, it is the wealth of festivals and events that may surprise you. With the Dundee Flower Show the Arbroath Seafest and the Real Ale Festival all accessible in Dundee, you cannot help but fall in love with the area.
If the wealth of festivals and cultural events is not enough to give you a taste of Dundee then the traditional foods available at cafes and restaurants will. There are also international eating out options. Accommodation is also abundant and features options to suit any budget but you will need to book in advance during festival weeks to guarantee your room.
If you need to know any more about Dundee or want to explore further then download the full eguide here.

Glasgow
Glasgow is officially the second city of Scotland but in terms of the actual population it is undoubtedly the largest. With 580,000 living in the city itself and over 2 million living in the wider metropolitan area, it is one of the most important cities in the UK.
Founded by St Mungo in the 6th Century, Glasgow can be found in the west coast lowlands of Scotland on the River Clyde. It became a commercial centre in the 11th Century and has retained that importance since. As such, transport links to Glasgow via rail, road and air are really well designed and easy to use, especially with the Scottish capital of Edinburgh just 42 miles away.
Glasgow is actually a vibrant and lively city that really offers a wealth of historical, architectural and cultural gems. The 1999 UK City of Architecture and Design, Glasgow is home to the beautiful City Chambers, Glasgow Cathedral, The Trades Hall and People’s Palace.
Not to be outdone by man made structures, breathtaking natural countryside and coastal beauty can also be found in Glasgow. There are beautiful parks like Glasgow Green and gorgeous coastal spots that can provide a peaceful interlude to the city.
The entertainment scene in Glasgow is buzzing, with theatres, cinemas, clubs, restaurants and pubs all available throughout the city. Eating out is also a pleasure with all sorts of cuisine, from traditional Scottish to international foods, widely available.
If you do plan on staying in Glasgow then there is accommodation and activities to suit all budgets in all areas of the city. Why not download the full guide to check out your options?

Inverness
The capital of the Highlands of Scotland, Inverness is an amazing city that is often forgotten as a result of the wealth of history and culture in other more popular cities. However, it has a lot to offer. With a population of over 70,000, it currently happens to be the fastest growing city in Europe and has much for visitors to enjoy.
Established in the 6th Century, it has long been the centre of Northern Scotland but can now offer visitors a wide and varied experience. With vibrancy and modernity available in the city and rural beauty available just a short distance away, visitors will find the perfect combination.
Art galleries, museums, theatres and shopping will provide a modern city experience but the proximity of Loch Ness and the natural beauty of the Highlands will give another, more relaxing option. There are also beaches available within a short driving distance if that is a must for your break.
Inverness has a wide range of accommodation available, from luxury hotels to small and traditional bed and breakfast establishments. As such, there is something to suit all budgets. There are also cafes, restaurants, bars, pubs and inns available for you to eat and enjoy traditional Scottish fare so you can spend as much or as little as you like to get the authentic Scottish experience.
If visiting Inverness sounds appealing then why not download the full guide right here? Providing more detailed information, it will answer any and all questions that you have.

Perth
Perth is one of the oldest and most interesting areas of Scotland to visit today. It was first inhabited more than 8000 years ago because of its location on the River Tay and, having grown as a result of that in more recent times, today has a population in excess of 43,000. Having been built on a major historical site, modern Perth is a former royal burgh and has a wealth of history and culture to share.
Perth is home to a number of fantastic sites that attract visitors from all around the world every year. With waterwheels and traditional industry to examine, authentic Scottish distilleries to sample and numerous romantic and historically important castles to visit, Perth has something for everyone. Huntingtower Castle and Balhousie Castle are particularly popular for those wanting to take in a little history.
Modern culture is also important in Perth. For example, Perth Theatre and the Festival Theatre in Pitlochry offer a taste of culture with performances of plays, music and contemporary arts every year.
If nature is appealing then Perth is the place to go in Scotland. There are organised safaris, falconry and fishing expeditions for the benefit of visitors. Alternatively, you can go along one of the many hiking trails and enjoy the natural scenic beauty yourself.
Perth also has a wealth of restaurants, cafes, pubs and clubs so you can enjoy entertainment and good food in the city. There is also an abundance of accommodation to suit all budgets so your trip can be as affordable or expensive as you need it to be.
If you want to know a little more about the beautiful landscape of Perth then download the eguide that can be found here. With comprehensive information, it can tell you everything you need to know about Perth.