Tourism in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (commonly called the United Kingdom or UK) is located in the British Isles off the northwestern coast of Europe. The United Kingdom has the fifth largest economy in the world and attracts tourists throughout the year. There are four constituent parts, or home nations, of the UK: *England *Scotland *Northern Ireland *Wales
Cultural facts about the UK

The United Kingdom became the dominant maritime and industrial power of the 19th century and contributed greatly to the development of Western ideas about capitalism, democracy, property, literature and science. Many of the best universities in the world are located in Great Britain. The English language is known as the “global language” and has spread to nations around the world.

Touring the UK

The UK offers some of the world’s most popular holiday destinations, from historic cities to tranquil ocean views. There are beautiful country houses, majestic castles, unique structures and ancient monuments. The reasons why so many people choose the UK, particularly Great Britain, as their destination are endless!

Castles and palaces in the UK

There are many lovely castles in the UK where tourists can take a walk through history and learn about the royal families of the past. Tourists can also visit many stately homes. There are hundreds of these in Britain that are open to the public. A popular castle is Castle Howard in North Yorkshire. The castle entrance is beautiful and has a dome above it. The beautiful park surrounding the castle makes a visit worthwhile. Scotland’s Edinburgh Castle sits on a hill above the rest of the city of Edinburgh and offers a view of where some of the bloodiest events in Scottish history took place. Windsor Castle is known to be the largest inhabited fortress in the world, and it is also the largest castle in England. Although the castle was badly damaged by fire in 1992, it has been restored. For garden lovers, Hever Castle and Gardens in Kent offer an enchanting landscape with a surrounding moat and drawbridge for protection. Also in Kent is Penshurst Place, a handsome country mansion once home to Sir Philip Sydney, a 16th-century Elizabethan poet. Woodstock’s baroque Blenheim Palace offers visitors a glimpse into the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchhill.

Charming gardens in the UK

The UK is known for its talented gardeners of the past, each of whom left a legacy that continues today. In almost every popular tourist attraction, there is a garden to welcome the visitor. Botanic gardens are prevalent in the UK, so you can enjoy the beauty of nature almost anywhere you go. Below are some of the most popular botanical gardens. Anything from exotic to common flowers and shrubs can be found at the 300-acre Royal Botanic Gardens (Kew) near London. These gardens contain the largest herbarium in the world. Sissinghurst Castle Garden in Kent has unusual landscaping and attracts many tourists in the fall when the colors are vibrant. Stourhead is the best known garden in England and is often called the birthplace of English landscape gardening. It is located near Shaftesbury, on the outskirts of the London metropolitan area. The garden attracts tourists with its flowering bushes, trees, and even bridges and temples, which greatly add to the scenery.

UK museums

Visitors to the UK can learn about culture and history by touring one of the country’s many museums, the most popular being London’s. The British Museum in London houses the famous Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles. It is one of the best museums in the world. The National Gallery in London offers a dazzling collection of Western art and represents many famous artists, from da Vinci to Picasso! The gallery houses a large number of Renaissance art pieces. Art lovers can fill up here during their time in London. Another great art museum in London is Tate Britain, where some 10,000 works are on display.

Touring Stonehenge

Stonehenge, England is a very popular attraction that mystifies many visitors with legends and mystical theories dating back to the Middle Ages. It is located near Amesbury in Wiltshire, just 90 miles from London. When in Scotland, tourists visiting Scotland in the late autumn will find the Scottish Highland Games highly entertaining. From tug-of-war and pipers and drummers to sheepdog demonstrations, these games appeal to adults and children alike. It’s a great way to spend a family vacation.

More fun things to do in the UK

Many tourists enjoy a cruise on Lake Windermere, England’s most famous lake. Taking a relaxing walk through the Cotswolds is another way to spend the day. There are rolling hills and beautiful stone cottages for a great view, and the area is less than 100 miles west of London. Tourists also enjoy great shopping, theater, and fine dining. The UK offers exciting places and fun activities for families and individuals alike.

Explore the UK on a Hiking Adventure

With all the hustle and bustle, glitz and dazzle of the UK, you may be wondering when you’ll find time for a big hike. Don’t worry, there are plenty of lovely walking opportunities just around the corner from many of the main tourist areas. Whether your aim is to get some exercise and keep fit during your trip to the UK or simply enjoy a bit of the great outdoors, you can escape to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds or the crashing waves of the Outer Hebrides.

Hiking is different for each region

You’ll find impressive mountains to the north in the Lake District and in the Pennines. In addition, magnificent mountain scenery awaits you in the remote regions of the Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland. If you’re up for a challenging walk, the Peak District offers strenuous climbs to give you a real workout. For a less challenging walk you may want to try the Shropshire Hills or Chilterns. There are thousands of miles of English countryside if you are just starting out with hiking. Visit the parts of eastern England where the land flattens out to enjoy riverside walks, see beautiful skylines and visit unique villages. For excursions close to the city, head south, where you can stay in or near London, but still find a leisurely stroll on the outskirts. Hiking in the South West reveals medieval castles, the beautiful Cornish and Devon coastlines, and also the quieter side of the Cotswolds.

Hike from Cocking

A great walk close to London begins in the village of Cocking, which is situated at the foot of the South Downs Way. The trail will take you through beautiful countryside. The stretch from Cocking to Uppark Manor House passes ancient Neolithic burial mounds, herds of sheep, deer and woodland. This walk is a wonderful way to unwind after a busy tour of London.

Hiking in the Lake District National Park

You’ll have plenty of walking options in the Lake District National Park, where high mountains and secluded valleys come together to form an attractive landscape. This is the largest English national park having been established in 1951. There are towns, cities, lakes, valleys, moors, beaches and tidal pools within the park giving every visitor a multitude of things to see and do. The park offers challenging hikes as well as relaxing hikes, and soothing waterfalls will also greet you from time to time.

A walk in Wales and Scotland

In North Wales, Snowdonia has the highest mountains in Britain and Wales and offers a great challenge for walkers. Scotland, a region known as the ‘Highlands and Islands’, has many dark forests, remote islands, romantic castles and stunning coastlines. Some favorite areas for hikers in Scotland are the Cuillin Ranges on Skye, the Fort William area, and the Cairngorms. The UK is a great place to hike no matter your level of experience. You can take a challenge on the high hills or enjoy a relaxing walk in the park. Either way, you’ll fall in love with the UK’s attractive countryside and rolling hills.

You can find international cell phones and UK service for your trip at http://www.planetomni.com. Free incoming calls from all countries day and night and calls to states are only US$0.08 per minute! They also rent and sell phones and satellite phones.