View From the Top - the London Eye

The London Eye only opened in 1999, but has quickly become the UK's most popular paid tourist attraction, with over 3.5 million visitors every year!

The London Eye (aka the Millennium Wheel) stands on the south bank of the River Thames. It is a giant ferris wheel, offering travelers to London unbelievable views of the city. When erected over 15 years ago, it was the world's tallest Ferris wheel. Since, it was been surpassed by the Star of Nanchang, the Singapore Flyer and High Roller. It also offered the highest public viewing point in London, until The Shard opened to the public in 2013. From the top, travelers to London can see around 25 miles, as far as Windsor Castle on a clear day!

The London Eye was designed by architects Frank Anatole, Nic Bailey, Steve Chilton, Malcolm Cook, Mark Sparrowhawk, and the husband-and-wife team of Julia Barfield and David Marks. It took seven years and the skills of hundreds of people from five countries to make the London Eye a reality.

The London Eye has 32 sealed and air-conditioned ovoidal passenger capsules, that each hold up to 25 people. The wheel rotates at a slow rate of 10 inches per second, which is slow enough to allow passengers to walk on and off the moving capsules at ground level without stopping the rotation. The wheel is stopped, however, to allow disabled and elderly passengers on and off safely. One revolution takes about 30 minutes.

The nearest London Underground station is Waterloo, although Charing Cross, Embankment, and Westminster are also within easy walking distance, making this London attraction easily accessible.

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150 Year Old British Icon - Big Ben

The British icon Big Ben has stood in the Houses of Parliament for over a 150 years.

Few people know that the tower "Big Ben" is just a nickname for the tower and up until 2012, it had no official name. The origin of the nickname Big Ben is the subject of some debate. The nickname was applied first to the Great Bell; but later came to indicate the entire tower. Some people believe that the name "Big Ben" may have been named after Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw the installation of the Great Bell. Others believe Big Ben was named after boxing's English Heavyweight Champion Benjamin Caunt. Either way, in 2012, the tower was officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II.

The current tower, which stands at the north end of the Houses of Parliament, was completed in 1859, with the Great Bell's strikes heard for the time on July 11. But long before Big Ben's construction, several towers have stood in its place dating back to 1289. The Palace of Westminster was almost completely destroyed by fire in 1834 and plans for the construction of Big Ben began.

Over the years, Big Ben has been silenced for repairs and replacements. But the most interesting silencing of Big Ben was due to WWII. From 1939 until April 1945, the clock dials were unlit to comply with blackout regulations during the Second World War. The clock dials were re-illuminated when the wartime blackout regulations were lifted.

Big Ben has become one of the most prominent symbols of the United Kingdom and is often in the establishing shot of films set in London, making it a prominent part of pop culture. The tower holds the largest four-faced chiming clock in the world and is the third-tallest free-standing clock tower.

Today, travelers to England are not able to tour the inside of Big Ben. But there are several vantage points that give a great view of the famous Big Ben. Check it out from ground level as you step out of the Westminster Tube Station, from the Westminster bridge or from the London Eye for a fabulous view.
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Things to See and Do in the Lake District, England

 Arguably one of the most beautiful parts in all of Great Britain, the Lake District offers a retreat from the hustle-bustle of the cities. The Lake District is a scenic five hour drive from London and makes a great stopping point when traveling to Glasgow. Stay here for a night or two to soak in the sheer natural beauty of the region, or stay for a week to relax and enjoy everything that the Lake District has to offer.

With such a wealth of natural riches, it's hardly surprising that the Lake District is one of England's favorite places for enjoying the great outdoors, but there is so much more to this region than fine views. It is also packed with history and culture. Here are just a few of the sites that travelers to England can enjoy when visiting the Lake District:

Blackwell Arts & Crafts House
Enjoy a lovingly crafted day out at one of the most enchanting historic houses in the Lake District. When you visit you are invited to relax and immerse yourself in all the beauty and craftsmanship of Blackwell. We encourage you to sit and soak up the atmosphere in Blackwell’s fireplace inglenooks, which have fine examples of tiles by Arts & Crafts designer William de Morgan. The inviting window seats offer stunning views of the surrounding Lake District scenery. You can appreciate the house as it was originally intended, without roped-off areas.

Lakeland Motor Museum
The fascinating Lakeland Motor Museum nestles in the picturesque Leven Valley, at Backbarrow, close to the southern tip of Lake Windermere. A diverse and unique road transport collection of some 30,000 exhibits assembled over a period of almost 50 years is thoughtfully displayed alongside many non-motoring additions, in fully DDA compliant state-of-the-art premises with a beautiful riverside setting.

Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
Reputedly the most beautiful train journey in England, this 15-inch, narrow gauge railway carries passengers along seven miles of scenic track, from the old Roman Port of Ravenglass along the Eskdale Valley to Eskdale during a 40-minute ride.

Theatre by the Lake
Cumbria's only year-round producing theatre, described by The Independent as "the most beautifully located and friendly theatre in Britain."

Holehird Gardens - Lakeland Horticultural Society
The 17 acre hillside gardens at Holehird include a great variety of planting - specimen trees and shrubs, extensive rock and heather gardens, a walled garden, alpine houses and herbaceous borders.

Muncaster Castle
Visit this early 13th-century castle to view a large number of historic artifacts collected by the Pennington family over the centuries, and walk along the miles of woodland paths that wind through this scenic estate.

Honister Slate Mine
Honister Slate Mine is a unique award winning experience, England's last remaining working slate mine.

Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre
A large collection of birds of prey - hawks, eagles, vultures, owls, falcons and buzzards. Flying demonstrations daily from 2 pm to 4pm. Visitors get the opportunity to fly a bird at the display. On site vintage tea room and local crafts.

Wordsworth Museum & Dove Cottage
Dove Cottage was the home of William Wordsworth during his most productive and inspired years. He arrived in 1799, looking for a haven, where he could settle down and fulfil his dream of living a simple life, surrounded by nature and able to concentrate on his writing.

The museum is beside Dove Cottage, which is where William Wordsworth, the poet who wrote, "I wandered lonely as a cloud" (Daffodil poem) lived while he produced his best work. It has a permanent display which shows his life history through pictures, maps, manuscripts and letters. There are paintings and sculptures as well as some of his personal possessions and a social history about the area in the 1800s.

Hill Top House, Beatrix Potter's Farmhouse
Located in England's historic Lake District, this working farm owned by Beatrix Potter was the setting for her delightful and popular series of animal tales.

Castlerigg Stone Circle
Dating from about 3000 BC, this is one of the first stone circles built in Britain, which is perched atop a high moor with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape

Long Meg and Her Daughters
Dating from the Bronze Age, this is England's third largest stone circle that consists of a huge ring (the Daughters) of more than 60 stones and Long Meg, a 12-foot-high block of red sandstone.

Rydal Mount and Gardens
Rydal Mount, the last family home of William Wordsworth from 1813 until his death in 1850, now belongs to the direct descendants of the Poet and remains a lived-in family home. The dining room, part of the old Tudor cottage, with its original flagged floor and oak beams, contrasts pleasingly with the larger proportions of the drawing room and library, added in 1750. The house contains works of art, furniture, manuscripts and many of the Poet's books and personal possessions, reflecting his life here. Wordsworth was a keen landscape gardener and the four acre garden remains very much as he designed it, consisting of fell-side terraces, lawns, rock pools and a 9th century Norse mound. There are rare shrubs and, in season, the daffodils, bluebells and rhododendrons produce a spectacular display

Beatrix Potter Gallery
This gallery displays original watercolours and manuscripts by the author.

Hutton in the Forest

Today Hutton-in-the-Forest reflects centuries of history and change. A house of six periods between the mid 14th and the mid 19th centuries, Hutton is a rich illustration of the development of the country house in the North of England.

Hawkshead Grammar School
The museum in the Old Grammar School building in the village of Hawkshead, Cumbria, houses a unique collection of historic artifacts relating to the ancient School, some of which date back to the sixteenth century.

Furness Abbey
The impressive remains of an abbey founded by Stephen, later King of England, including much of the east end and west tower of the church, the ornately decorated chapter house and the cloister buildings.

Holker Hall & Gardens
Holker Hall is the home of Lord and Lady Cavendish who welcome visitors of all ages to one of the best-loved stately homes in Britain.

Cumberland Pencil Museum
Perfect all weather attraction for all the family. Discover Keswick's industrial heritage, be amazed at the World's Longest Coloured Pencil, artist demonstrations and workshops are held throughout the year. A full range of Derwent Fine Art pencils are available in the Museum shop, along with Sketchers Coffee shop serving light lunches and afternoon teas.

Wordsworth House and Garden
This 18th-century Georgian town house was the birthplace and childhood residence of the English poet William Wordsworth.

The Dock Museum
Built in an historic graving dock, the museum is home to a wealth of objects and information on the social and industrial history of the Furness area.

Brantwood
The former home of artist and writer John Ruskin is perched high above Coniston Water.


The Quaker Tapestry Exhibition Centre
The Quaker Tapestry came into being as a result of a chance remark made by an eleven-year-old boy attending the children's class of a small Quaker Meeting in the South West of England in 1981. His teacher, to whom the remark was made, was Anne Wynn-Wilson, an accomplished embroiderer. She had the vision of a number of large tapestry panels telling something of the Quaker story and beliefs. In 1982 she mounted an exhibition of work in progress and her ideas and determination aroused an enthusiastic response from many Friends. Designers came forward, embroidery groups were formed, and training workshops were arranged.

The World of Beatrix Potter
The Lake District’s natural beauty and abundant wildlife inspired Beatrix Potter to write her much-loved stories. As you step in to the World of Beatrix Potter™ Attraction you too can explore this wonderful landscape as all 23 of the magical tales are brought to life, recreating sights, sounds and aromas in 3D displays.  There’s chance to meet your favourite characters Squirrel Nutkin, Mrs. Tiggywinkle and Mr. Tod, not forgetting the most famous character of all, Peter Rabbit!

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Towns and Villages of Cumbria and the Lake District

There is more to Cumbria than its world-famous natural environment. There are many towns and villages to explore, whether nestled in valleys, on the side of a lake or along the coastline.

From the cosmopolitan city of Carlisle, gateway to Hadrian's Wall Country, and Keswick in the north to the charming market towns of Ulverston and Kirkby Lonsdale and the maritime town of Barrow-in-Furness in the south; from the historical market town of Cockermouth and the harbour town of Whitehaven along the west coast to the pretty towns of Penrith and Appleby in the Eden Valley to the east. And in the central Lakes you will find the ever-popular Kendal, Windermere, Ambleside and Grasmere. Each place has its own story to tell and a character to discover.

Carlisle

This great border city and capital of Cumbria sits on 2000 years of human occupation. Overlying this rich heritage is a vibrant town center of modern shops, pavement cafes and leisure facilities that rivals most other cities in the north of England. The majestic Cathedral is within a few minutes walk of the spacious pedestrianised Greenmarket – a focal point for street entertainment, Farmers’ Markets and Christmas celebrations.

Ambleside

Ambleside is ideally located in the center of the Lake District. The town is situated at the North end of Windermere Lake and at the foot of the poular scenic route over Kirkstone Pass. It's location and idyllic scenery make it an ideal base for visitors to explore the national park.

Whitehaven
The maritime port of Whitehaven was once the third largest in the UK with trade links all over the world. The wealth of Georgian architecture led to Whitehaven being listed as a ‘gem town' and voted one of the top 10 seaside resorts in the UK. Today the town's harbour enhanced by nautical sculptures, dramatic lighting effects and a brand new marina, is the focus for spectacular maritime events.

Keswick

It's central location makes Keswick the perfect place to stay when planning to explore the Lake District. The town is surrounded famous Lakeland hills such has Grizedale Pike, Skiddaw and Catbells. There are walks to suit all abilities from the doorstep. The forest of Whinlatter is close by and ideal for walking, mountain biking and the high wire adventure GoApe.  Make a visit to the Pencil Museum, take a cruise on the lake and see the latest production at Theatre by the Lake. At certain times of the year you may also get a glimpse of the nesting Osprey from Dodd Wood.

Ulverston

This festival capital of Furness combines special events with an assortment of specialist shops, cosy pubs, traditional markets and cultural hotspots. Add in the colorfully rendered houses, cobbled streets and inviting side alleys and there's enough of interest to keep you enthralled for days. Surrounding the town is the gently rolling farmland of the Furness Peninsula while the coastline provides beautiful vistas over Morecambe Bay.

Kirkby Lonsdale

The picturesque market town of Kirkby Lonsdale on the banks of the River Lune is ideally located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and within easy reach of the Lake District; its attractive setting epitomised by the glorious view up the Lune Valley from Ruskin’s View. The center is a pleasing mix of elegant eighteenth-century buildings and stone cottages huddled around cobbled courtyards and narrow alleyways with evocative names such as Salt Pie Lane and Jingling Lane. Traditional butchers, bakers and ‘the best independent cheese shop in the UK’ (2007) jostle alongside designer jewellery, fashion and home décor outlets.


Barrow - in - Furness
Barrow-in-Furness is a large industrial town which grew from a tiny 19th Century hamlet to the biggest iron and steel centre in the world, and a major ship-building force, in just 40 years. The railway was introduced to carry iron-ore, slate and lime-stone to the new deep water port. Its prosperity grew with the development of the steel and ship-building industries. The monks of Furness Abbey smelted iron with wood in the 13th Century.

Cockermouth

This handsome Georgian town on the edge of the Lake District has been identified as one of 51 ‘gem towns' in Britain, recommended for preservation as part of our national heritage. This attractive town with its broad, tree-lined main thoroughfare boasts a healthy mix of service shops (butchers, bakers, ironmongers, etc), alongside cafes, pubs and high quality art and craft galleries. Good roads provide fast and easy access to Bassenthwaite Lake and Keswick, and to Maryport and the sandy coastline towards Allonby. Cockermouth was the birthplace and childhood home of William Wordsworth, his former home now imaginatively presented to the visitor.

Penrith

Located at an intersection of routes between Scotland and England and a cross-Pennines road, Penrith has reaped the benefits of good communication routes for centuries.Today, with easy access from the M6, A66 and with a mainline railway service, the town is a perfect base for exploring the northern Lakes, beautiful Eden Valley and rolling Pennine hills. This distinctive red sandstone town, with its popular markets and specialist, family-run shops, has become the regional center for trade, industry and services in the Eden Valley.

Appleby-in-Westmorland

The ancient market town and royal borough of Appleby, in the heart of the Eden Valley, is the focal point for many outlying villages and hamlets. Its traditional shops and indoor market provide for every requirement, whilst the riverside is perfect for a casual stroll or picnic.

Kendal

The ‘Auld Grey Town' of Kendal, handsomely built in limestone, is the focal hub for shopping and culture in Lakeland. Historically, Kendal was one of the most important woollen textile centers in the country, producing ‘Kendal Green' and other ‘Kendal cottons' - its numerous yards were once filled with workshops processing cloth, leather and foodstuffs. Kendal was also a center for shoe making, carpet and snuff manufacture, and synonymous with the production of Kendal Mint Cake; an essential prerequisite for today's explorers and mountaineers.

Windermere

Windermere is the perfect Lakeland destination all year round. With the shores of the lake so close, you are never short of fantastic scenery or leisure activities. Several local viewpoints offer panoramic views of both the lake and more distant mountains. Bowness-on-Windermere is one of the most popular holiday locations in the Lake District. With immediate access to Windermere Lake, it is an excellent base for water activities, including boating and leisurely water attractions. Away from the lake is a host of historic attractions and heritage sites, as well as many other visitor attractions.

Grasmere

Grasmere, cradled in a vale in the heart of the Lake District, is crowned with magnificent fells and mountains all around. It is sheltered by Helm Crag, otherwise known as ‘the Lion and the Lamb' one of Wainwright's favorite hills. The pictureseque village has a lovely choice of accommodation and restaurants. It is also home to Dove Cottage and the Wordsworth Museum. Just along the valley is the Vale of Rydal. You can take a walk along Loughrigg Terrace or the Coffin Trail, overlooking Rydal.




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16 Lakes of the Lake District, England

Arguably one of the most beautiful parts in all of Great Britain, the Lake District offers a retreat from the hustle-bustle of the cities. The Lake District is a scenic five hour drive from London and makes a great stopping point when traveling to Glasgow. Stay here for a night or two to soak in the sheer natural beauty of the region, or stay for a week to relax and enjoy everything that the Lake District has to offer.

The Lake District is home to many bodies of water, however only 16 of them are actually considered lakes. Here are the 16 lakes of England's Lake District.

Windermere
Windermere is the largest lake in England, whose eastern shore washes up on the town of Bowness.

Ullswater
Set in a region that is home to contrasting vistas of gently rolling fields and dramatic mountain rises, Ullswater is a favorite with those who enjoy spectacular natural beauty.

Derwentwater Lake
Derwentwater Lake is very much a landscape of moods, varying from the dramatic waves splashing against Friar’s Crag when driven by southerly gales, to the absolute mirror calm of early mornings.

Bassenthwaite Lake
Bassenthwaite Lake is the most northerly of the lakes, and has no major settlements on its shores. It is often full of sailing boats from Bassenthwaite Sailing Club. There is a shore path which runs the length of the west shore, but there is no access to the east side except at Mirehouse. Here there is a small open-air theatre, built in 1974 for the reading of ‘Morte d’Arthur’ to the Tennyson society at the place where it is thought that Tennyson, who often stayed at Mirehouse, composed much of the poem. Bassenthwaite is home to the vendace, a rare and endangered fish species found only here and in Derwentwater.

Coniston Water
At five miles long, and with a maximum depth of 184 feet, Coniston Water is the third largest of the lakes. It provided an important fish source for the monks of Furness Abbey who owned the lake and much of the surrounding land in the 13th and 14th Centuries. More recently Coniston Water was used to transport slate and ore from the many mines worked in the Coppermines Valley above Coniston village. It has three small islands, all owned by the National Trust. The elegant Victorian Steam Yacht Gondola sails between March and November. Renovated by the National Trust, its passengers can travel in opulently upholstered saloons – a superb way to appreciate the magnificent scenery. The traditional timber craft of Coniston Launch provide regular hourly sailings throughout the year to jetties around Coniston Water, including Brantwood.

Haweswater Reservoir
Haweswater is a reservoir built in the valley of Mardale. The farming villages of Measand and Mardale Green used to populate the Mardale valley. To make way for the reservoir, all of the farms, houses and graveyard in the villages were removed. At times of drought, when the water is low, many people go back to see what is left of the village of Mardale.

Thirlmere
Thirlmere, at 3.5 miles long, 1.2 mile wide and 158 feet deep, was originally two smaller lakes, which were purchased by Manchester City Corporation Waterworks in 1889. The area was dammed with a dam whose greatest height is 104 feet, and the area became one vast reservoir. In the process, the settlements of Armboth and Wythburn were submerged, the only remaining building being the little church at Wythburn.

Ennerdale Water
Ennerdale is the most westerly of the lakes, and the most remote, so it offers, even in high season, a place to escape. It is a deep glacial lake, 2.5 miles long 3/4 mile wide and 148 feet deep. The water is exceptionally clear, and contains a variety of fish. It serves as a reservoir for the coastal towns of West Cumbria, and is the only lake that does not have a road running alongside it.

Wast Water
Situated in the Wasdale Valley, Wastwater is 3 miles long, half a mile wide and 260 feet deep, and the deepest of all the lakes. Wastwater is perhaps the most awe-inspiring of all the lakes. Surrounded by mountains, Red Pike, Kirk Fell, Great Gable and Scafell Pike – England’s highest mountain. Extending the length of the south-east side of the lake are the Screes, consisting of millions of fragments of broken rock and rising from the floor of the lake to a height of almost 200 feet, giving the lake an ominous appearance.

Crummock Water
Situated between Loweswater and Buttermere. Often overlooked by its sister lake Buttermere, Crummock Water with the mighty Grassmoor on the west and the fells of Mellbreak on the east, it has unparalleled views from either side. It is 2 1/2 miles long, 3/4 mile wide and 140 feet deep and is a clear, rocky bottomed lake flanked by steep fellsides of Skiddaw slate.

Esthwaite Water
Esthwaite Water is one of the smaller and lesser known lakes in the Lake District National Park in Northern England. The lake covers around 280 acres and is known for its excellent fishing, particularly trout and pike. The lake was mentioned as the location where William Wordsworth conversed with a friend in Wordsworth's poem, "Expostulation and Reply."

Buttermere
Buttermere – the lake by the dairy pastures – is 1 1/2 miles long, 3/4 of a mile wide and 75 feet deep. The classic combination of lakes and mountains has made this popular with visitors since the beginning of tourism in the Lake District. A visit to Buttermere is principally for its natural attractions – as the area offers some of the best walking country in Lakeland. There is a footpath running round the perimeter of the lake, and lovely walks to the summits of Haystacks and Red Pike.

Grasmere
Grasmere at 1 mile long, half a mile wide and 75 feet deep, would be an attractive and popular tourist area even without its Wordsworth connections. ‘The most loveliest spot than man hath found’ was Wordsworth’s famous quote describing the area of Lakeland that he most loved. The small island in the middle of the lake was his favourite destination while he was staying at nearby Dove Cottage. The island is now privately owned, and visitors should not land there, tempting though it is.

Loweswater Lake
Nestled in a wooded valley in the far west of the Lake District, in the Vale of Lorton, Loweswater is a peaceful lake that is often bypassed. At approximately 1 mile in length, 1/2 mile wide and 60 feet deep, it provides an excellent lake circuit for walkers. Loweswater is unique within the Lake District, as it is the only lake that drains towards the center of Lakeland – to Crummock Water which it was once joined to. Red squirrels, whose favourite habitat is coniferous, can be found in the locality.

Rydal Water
Rydal Water is one of the smallest lakes at 3/4 mile long, 1/4 mile wide and with a depth of 55 feet, but it is very popular partly because of its Wordsworth connections. Steps lead up from the western end of the lake to ‘Wordsworth’s Seat’ – reputedly the poet’s favourite viewpoint.

Brotherswater
Brothers Water is in the Hartsop valley and is a small lake in the eastern region of the Lake District. Once called Broad Water, it lies at the northern end of Kirkstone Pass, affording picturesque views on the descent towards Patterdale. The small lake  sustains a  trout population and is one of four locations in the Lake District to harbour a rare species of fish, the Schelly.

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Submerged Villages of Mardale Valley

Nestled in the picturesque valley of Mardale, England, an unassuming reservoir covers a fascinating story in Britain's history.

One hundred years ago, the villages of Measand and Mardale Green were thought to be one of the most picturesque in all of Westmorland. In 1929, Parliament passed an ACT that allowed for the valley to become a reservoir to supply water for the urban areas of north-west England. By 1935, the dam was built and Haweswater flooded the two lakeside villages. Of course, all of the farms, houses and even the coffins in te graveyard were removed beforehand.

Today, Haweswater is now one of the largest lakes in the Lake District. It is the most easterly of the lakes. Travelers to England may get to spot the remnants of the once beautiful villages. The village of Mardale can be seen at times of drought, when the water level is low.

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Top 10 Royal Attractions in England

Royal history exists basically everywhere in England. From regal robes and crown jewels to sumptuous state apartments and ceremonial carriages, here's where to go in England for an insight into British royalty throughout the ages.

1. Buckingham Palace
One of Britain's most recognizable landmarks, Buckingham Palace is the office and official residence of the Queen. Every August and September, the Queen opens her home to visitors, giving you the chance to tour the lavish State Rooms and Garden, and see some of the great treasures from the Royal collection along the way!

2. Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace is one of the most intriguing of the Historic Royal Palaces. Discover stories from Queen Victoria's life in the Victoria Revealed exhibition; master courtly games in the King's State Apartments; glimpse a modern Princess in an exhibition of Diana's dresses; and uncover the secrets of a fragile dynasty in the Queen's State Apartments.

3. Windsor Castle
Not only is Windsor Castle the Queen's favorite residence, it's also the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world. Don't miss the magnificent State Apartments; St. George's Chapel (the burial group of 10 monarchs), the Drawings Gallery with its changing exhibitions, and Queen Mary's Dolls' House - the most famous dolls' house in the world.

4. Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is steeped in over 1000 years of history, and has been the setting for the Coronation of every English monarch from 1066. It has also seen `6 royal weddings.

5. Sandringham House & Estate
Sandringham House in Norfolk is one of the Queen's favorite houses and where she chooses to spend Christmas with her family. Since 1862, Sandringham has been the private home of four generations of monarchs and was once described as "The most comfortable house in England".

6. Hampton Court Palace
The magnificent Hampton Court Palace in Richmond, London was Henry VII's favorite royal residence. Step back in time for a taste of Tudor life in Henry VII's kitchens; lose yourself in the famous Hampton Court Maze; attend a service at the beautiful Chapel Royal and explore the Hampton Court gardens - internationally renowned for being amongst the most beautiful gardens in the world.

7. The Tower of London
One of the world's most famous fortresses, the Tower of London has seen service as a royal palace, prison, armoury and even a zoo. Today its a World Heritage Site, where you'll be dazzled by the Crown Jewels; hear tales from the Tower on a Yeoman Warder tour; stand in the spot where Henry VII's wives Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard were executed and discover 500 years of spectacular royal armour in the Fit for a King exhibition.

8. Royal Mews
The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace is a working stable, and home to the royal collection of historic coaches and carriages, as well as the cars used for state occasions. The most dazzling of all the coaches on display is the Gold State Coach, used as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2002.

9. Household Calvary Museum
You've seen Changing of the Guard, now look behind the scenes at the work that goes into the ceremonial duties and operational roles of the Household Cavalry. Watch troopers working with their horses in the original 18th-century stables and browse a collection representing more than 300 years of military history.

10. Kew Palace
Located in the lush botanical gardens, Kew Palace was the residence of George II's daughters, then family home of George III. Inside the most intimate of the royal palaces, everything is just as it was during George's reign; the riot of colour in the authentically re-created rooms give you a real feel for the life of this royal family.

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York Minster

Experience one of the top visitor attractions in York with a trip to York Minster. York Minster is one of the world's most magnificent cathedrals, with foundations rooted in England's earliest history. Regularly voted one of the most popular things to do in York, the Minster is not only an architecturally stunning building but is a place to discover the history of York over the centuries, its artifacts and treasures.

Dating back to medieval times, this splendid Church of England cathedral features magnificent 14th- and 15th-century stained glass, stonework and elaborate tombs. A church has stood in the footprints of York Minster since 627, and has been rebuilt several times. The Gothic style of York Minster dates back to 1220.

The historic collections range from libraries and historic records to their prodigious artifacts collection. Whether still in use or kept as a treasure, the Artifacts Collection is a rich time capsule of York Minster’s history.  The objects have hundreds of stories to tell through their use and history.  They also hint at the lives of the people who owned, used and often designed them. Visitors to York Minster will discover treasures, silver, textiles, furnishings, archaeological findings and monuments.

From the world's greatest treasures to the smallest curiosities, York Minster is one of the world's most magnificent cathedrals, with foundations rooted in the nation's earliest history. Explore a masterpiece in stained glass and stone, its vast spaces alive with the sanctity and tradition of worship and heavenly music. Visit York Minster on your vacation to England with Celtic Tours World Vacations

From Roman Times & Victorian Industry to Cosmopolitan Renaissance: Manchester, England

Manchester city's roots date back to Roman times, if not before. Manchester became a hive of Victorian Industry producing a huge range of textiles and other goods. Manchester's rich industrial heritage means that the city's buildings reflect its colorful past - a seamless blend of old and new. Visitors to Manchester will find that it is experiencing a cosmopolitan renaissance, with former factories converted into upscale residences, museums and other attractions.

Manchester is located in northwest England and is incredibly well connected to the rest of England by road and rail. The city is best known for its football (soccer) team Manchester United, its Brit-pop music fame and its culture. The city boasts several prestigious theaters, that often play host to major touring West-End productions, world-class music venues and well-renowned city center museums.

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Do Oxford on a Budget

Oxford, in central, southern England, is a perfect place for travelers on a budget. There is so much to do that is free and low cost! Here are just a few of the things you can do when visiting Oxford on a budget:

The Oxford University of Natural History: Housed in a Victorian-style building, this University museum features collections of zoological, entomological and mineral specimens that have been collected over the last three centuries.

The Pitt Rivers Museum: The Pitt Rivers Museum is one of Oxford’s most popular attractions, famous for its period atmosphere and outstanding collections from many cultures around the world, past and present.

Bate Collection of Musical Instruments: For music-lovers everywhere: this specialty museum houses a fine collection of historical woodwind, brass and percussion instruments, plus more than one dozen historical keyboard instruments and a complete bow-maker's workshop.
The Ashmolean Museum: Oxford University's Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology, established in 1683, is Britain’s oldest public museum and one of the oldest museums in the world.

The Museum of the History of Science: This museum boasts an unrivalled collection of more than 10,000 scientific instruments ranging from the time of antiquity to the early twentieth century.

Modern Art Oxford: Modern Art Oxford is one of the UK's leading galleries for the presentation of modern and contemporary visual art, with an established international reputation.

In addition to these great museums, budget travelers will find much to see at the churches and cathedrals such as the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin or St. Michael at the North Gate. In a university town such as Oxford, stroll around the college campuses! The majority of colleges are free to visit in the afternoons. Speaking of strolls - whether river, meadow, garden or cobble-stoned city streets, Oxford offers the budget travelers ample opportunities to amble.

Window shop on High Street or the Covered Market. Stop into one of the many bookshops that Oxford offers. Don't forget to break for High Tea for an inexpensive taste of English culture. Oxford surely offers the budget traveler a lot to see and do! Travel to England with Celtic Tours World Vacations.

The City of Dreaming Spires Inspires

The "City of Dreaming Spires" beckons! Travel to Oxford, England. An hour by train outside London, Oxford is a city in central, southern England. Oxford is best known for housing one of the world's most prestigious institutions for higher learning, the University of Oxford. However, Oxford is much more than a university town or stomping ground for the world's brilliant minds.

Art and architecture fans  will love Oxford for its virtual timeline of every English architectural period since the arrival of the Saxons in the early first century. Delight in a number of small cobbled streets and alleyways that are untouched for hundreds of years.

Shoppers can hit up Oxford's glorious High Street to find a vibrant, slightly curved street that is host to a number of Oxford's finest restaurants, jewelers , fashion outlets, antique dealers, the famous Oxford University shop and of course St Mary’s church. The city offers a marvelous opportunity to stroll!

Book lovers, Oxford is rich in bookshops. Do pop into one: browse, read and have a coffee. Oxford also packs it's fair-share of museums. Try the Museum of Oxford, Pitt Rivers Museum, Bate Collection of Musical Instruments, Museum of the History of Science or Modern Art Oxford. All of these museums are free! But if these museums do not quench your thirst for knowledge, why not check out the Bodlein Library or meander through the colleges. The majority of colleges are free to visit in the afternoons. Sample the fare in one of Oxford’s pubs such as the White Horse,the Kings Arms, the Mitre, the Turf, the Turl... or have a warming pie from Pieminister in the Covered Market.

The City of Dreaming Spires inspires! Travel to Oxford for the art, the architecture, the history and the shopping! Travel to England with Celtic Tours World Vacations

Minack Theatre – Cornwall’s Famous Open air Theater

When traveling to Cornwall, England during the summer season, it is a must to take in a show at the spectacular Minack Theatre. The Minak Theatre is the most famous open-air theater in Britain, possible in the world.

From above, it looks as though the Minack Theatre is two thousand years ago, built by the Greeks or Romans. But this amazing theater was built just under 80 years ago! Carved into the granite cliffs of Porthcurno, Cornwall overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Nowadays, the theater is used from June to September for a full summer season of 17 plays, produced by companies from all over the UK and visiting companies from the USA. The theatre is open for visitors throughout the rest of the year and is a must for travelers in Cornwall, England.

Travel to Cornwall with Celtic Tours World Vacations!

History of Tea in Britain

Each day in Britain approximately 165 million cups of tea are drunk but how many people know the origins of the tea in their teabag? Tea is so integral to our routine that we might never stop to think about how a unique plant from faraway China became the nation´s favorite drink! We can trace its fascinating story from the earliest times in Imperial China right up to its present place at the heart of British life.

The history of tea in Britain has rather exotic beginnings in China and the Far East. There are various legends surrounding the origins of tea. Perhaps the most famous is the Chinese story of Shen Nung, the emperor and renowned herbalist, who was boiling his drinking water when leaves from a nearby tea shrub blew into the cauldron. He tasted the resulting brew, and the beverage of tea was born.
Tea first became established in Britain because of the influence of a foreign princess, Catherine of Braganza, the queen of Charles II. A lover of tea since her childhood in Portugal, she brought tea-drinking to the English royal court, and set a trend for the beverage among the aristocracy of England in the seventeenth century.

The fashion soon spread beyond these elite circles to the middle classes, and it became a popular drink at the London coffee houses where wealthy men met to do business and discuss the events of the day. But the tea that was being drunk in those seventeenth century coffee houses would probably be considered undrinkable now.

The first tea shop for ladies was opened by Thomas Twining in 1717 where tea is still served today. Slowly tea shops began to appear throughout England making the drinking of teas available to everyone. The British further developed their love of teas during the years of the British Empire in India.

Today tea is enjoyed throughout Britain. Be sure to relax with a cup of tea on your next vacation to Britain with Celtic Tours World Vacations.

Heart of England - Devon and Cornwall

Heart of England - Devon and Cornwall

An opportunity to join us on a Devon and Cornwall Tour, to discover miles of dramatic Atlantic Coastline with clean sandy beaches, hidden coves, pretty fishing villages, wooded river valleys and bustling market towns in Devon and Cornwall.


Your Heart of England - Devon and Cornwall Tour Highlights:

• GUARANTEED DEPARTURES
• Transportation by top of the range 16 seat Mercedes mini coaches
• Four Nights Accommodation in your choice of B&B or Hotel
• Breakfast on Days 02 through 05
• Services of professional driver/guide
• Touring per your itinerary
• Five Days of Touring as per itinerary
• Local taxes
• Tips to your driver are not included, as they are considered personal


Tour the Heart of England with Celtic Tours World Vacations

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Discover King Arthur's Excalibur

Travel into the heart of Arthurian legend country in Cornwall. Discover the mythical tale of King Arthur's sword Excalibur in Dozmary pool, the legendary resting place. Few legends have won the literary heart of the world as the tale of King Arthur. You will find him in a plethora of ancient and contemporary text from Disney's animated film adaptation "The Sword in the Stone" to Robert de Boron's "Merlin".

King Arthur is a legendary British leader of the late 5th and early 6th centuries, who, according to Medieval histories and romances, led the defence of Britain against Saxon invaders in the early 6th century. The details of Arthur's story are mainly composed of folklore and literary invention, and his historical existence is debated and disputed by modern historians. The legendary Arthur developed as a figure of international interest largely through the popularity of Geoffrey of Monmouth's fanciful and imaginative 12th-century "History of the Kings of Britain". Some Welsh and Breton tales and poems relating the story of Arthur date from earlier than this work; in these works, Arthur appears either as a great warrior defending Britain from human and supernatural enemies, such as Morgan Le Faye, or as a magical figure of folklore.

Stories of King Arthur usually make reference to the mythical wizard Merlin, who was invented by Geoffrey of Monmouth, Guinevere, his legendary wife and Excalibur, his sword. Excalibur is the legendary sword of King Arthur, sometimes attributed with magical powers or associated with the rightful sovereignty of Great Britain. Sometimes Excalibur and the Sword in the Stone (the proof of Arthur's lineage) are said to be the same weapon, but in most versions they are considered separate. The name Excalibur apparently derives from the Welsh Caledfwlch which combines the elements caled ("battle, hard"), and bwlch ("breach, gap, notch").

In Arthurian romance, a number of explanations are given for Arthur's possession of Excalibur. One tale is that he was given the sword by the Lady of the Lake who occupied Dozmary Pool, a small lake in Bodmin Moor, Cornwall.

Travel into the heart of Arthurian legend country on your next tour of England with Celtic Tours World Vacations.

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North Wales and the Heart of England

Heart of England - North Wales and the Heart of England
This fabulous 3 day itinerary offers the magnificent village of Stratford on Avon, birthplace of Shakespeare, the heart of Northern Wales and the ancient walls of Chester.

Your Heart of England - North Wales and the Heart of England Tour Highlights:
• GUARANTEED DEPARTURES • Transportation by top of the range 16 seat Mercedes mini coaches
• Two Nights Accommodation in your choice of B&B or Hotel in Chester• Breakfast on Day 02 and 03• Services of professional driver/guide
• Touring per your itinerary
• Three Days of Touring as per itinerary
• Local taxes
• Tips to your driver are not included, as they are considered personal

Tour the Heart of England - North Wales and the Heart of England Tour with Celtic Tours World Vacations.