The phrase is no longer original but the sentiment is still relevant, as the throbbing, pulsing London and the hordes of visitors it draws each year attest. Despite this, visitors often find that day trips out of the city can be refreshing and many chose to turn to bastions of Englishness after the worldly city. This is a guide to some truly English trips possible from London.

1. Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle has been a residence of nobility for about one thousand years and once hosted fashionable and exclusive parties for the aristocracy and their friends in the lower orders. Today it welcomes visitors on a more inclusive basis to tour the interiors and relax in the gardens and around the lake. Make sure that you take in the unusual museum of dog collars collected by eccentric family members down the years. Visitors should be aware that the castle is nowhere near Leeds, the city in the north of England, but rather in Kent, to the south of London.

Leeds Castle is approximately an hour’s journey from London Victoria station.

London Hotel near Victoria Station : St. George’s Hotel

2. Norwich

Norwich is an ancient English town in the fine county of Norfolk. It is also, because of the regions agriculture, the home of English mustard. While many foreign guests find this condiment too strong for their tastes, the English roast beef cannot be truly enjoyed without it. Visitors can combine a trip to Norwich with a visit to the Colman’s museum and shop. While this is really best for connoisseurs it is interesting enough for the general guest, and the shop sells Colman’s merchandise for the truly English feel at your dinner table back home.

Norwich is approximately an hour and a half from London’s Liverpool Street Station.

London Hotel near Liverpool Street Station : Hotel 196 Bishopgate

3. The Museum of Witchcraft

The Museum of Witchcraft is located in Boscastle, Cornwall. This means that it is a bit far to be done in a single day but since Cornwall is one of the most beautiful parts of England a stay overnight is no bad thing. Certainly, any Harry Potter fans will enjoy this (I think there are one or two out there) and it is interesting for adults as well. In fact, while none of the exhibits are unsuitable for children one or two of them will need some explaining to the young ones. Trains from London Paddington go to Cornwall in about three hours, although public transport within Cornwall can be unreliable. If you have time the best advice is to hire a car to fully explore the sheltered coves and sandy beaches the county has to offer.

London Hotel near Paddington Station : Hotel Cardiff

In each of these three cases the journey to them and the city, town or village around them should give just as much insight into the real England as the attractions themselves. Just getting out of London and seeing some of the ‘green and pleasant land’ will give you that much more energy when you get back to the big city.

Photo of the Museum of Witchcraft, Boscastle, UK, by Ennor

Especially now that the public baths have been re-opened to the public (in a brand new building across the road from the Roman ruins… see  thermaebathspa.com for more details on that one) and the high street full of fashionable stores and cafes, it can be easy for visitors to see Bath as a rainy day destination. And it is true that the city caters to England’s traditional weather, but that is only half of the personality of the city. The true beauty of Bath does not lie steaming in the natural springs or rest in the reliefs on the façade of the Gothic-style abbey, but is in the parks and outdoor sights. Bath offers some of the best city parks outside of London, and are not to be missed.

The Circus

Just to the northwest of the city centre is the Circus, a perfect circle of Georgian houses constructed out of the startlingly white Somerset stone that cloaks the entire city. Constructed during the 18th century, the circle breaks in 3 places for adjoining roads (so is easy to find) and houses a huge chestnut tree in the centre, under which you can always find residents lazing about on hotter days. The circular architecture is a rare sight (many sights around England such as this were destroyed in the Second World War….much of Bath was also damaged) and is complimented by the semi-circle of houses in the same style just down Brock St. The Royal Crescent has been a symbol of Bath as much as the Circus has, and has the added advantage of looking out over Victoria Park.

Victoria Park

Victoria Park slopes down the valley side towards the centre of town, comprised of many small paths, band stands and a fantastic adventure play area for children. At the top of the 57 acres of gardens is the meadow on front of the Royal Crescent, originally used as a grazing pasture for livestock inside the city walls. Opened in 1830 by the young Queen Victoria, the park has remained a quiet refuge for residents and a place in the centre of the city where people can lie in the grass, walk under trees. There are also cultural events inside the park, including an open-air theatre for plays and musical shows and a variety of sports fields for tennis, bowls, etc. As you carry on walking west through the gardens along the main road that bisects the park, visitors come upon the Bath Botanical Gardens. In the author’s opinion, these are some of the loveliest flower gardens in England not found in National Trust estates. The flowerbeds are meticulously kept, and the variety of pant-life is remarkable for a country that seems to be gray and raining most of the time. In the north section of the Botanical Gardens is the relatively new addition of the Great Dell, a natural depression in the side of the Bath valley that is a peaceful, shadowy refuge of conifers.

Parade Gardens

Walking back through the city centre, just behind the Abbey, are the Parade Gardens, a small walled park along the banks of the River Avon. The park is free for city residents but only a few pounds for visitors. On sunny days the park is speckled with lawn chairs, and families will gather for picnics. On Sundays the bandstand is filled with a local horn band, and the gardens are also a sight for local primary school plays and choral events. Below the noise of the city, the Parade Gardens are one of those rare places in the middle of a city that is almost completely silent. Just up the river is the Pulteney Bridge, an 18th century bridge lined with small shops, comparable to the Ponte Vecchio in Florence. Further on down Great Pulteney St are the Sydney Gardens, an extensive space with a maze and many other entertainments where Georgian families would come to amuse themselves. It is said that Jane Austen (one of the city’s most famous residents) would come down to the Sydney Gardens with her sisters and spend all day playing in the maze. At the gates of the Sydney Gardens is the house of William Holburne, which is now a University Art museum, housing collections from the 18th and 19th century with painters such as Guardi, Turner and Gainsborough present.

Alexandra Park

If you find yourself still searching for that perfect park bench or willow tree, the last large city park can be found at the top of the steep hill behind Bath Spa railway station. Alexandra Park looks over the beautiful Bath valley. On a sunny day, the city literally glows as the sunlight bounces off of the white somerset stone. I may be a little bias having grown up in this area, but I believe it to be one of the most beautiful places in the United Kingdom. The Alexandra Parks are also very large and many hours can be spent wandering around taking in the beautiful hill-top views.

As well as the larger gardens, there are also a high number of smaller gardens and squares tucked away around the city that are just waiting to be discovered. There are also the ever-popular open top buses and the beautiful streets to explore when the sun is shining. So take advantage of the break in the clouds, and discover why England in the sun is one of the most beautiful places I know of.

Top 5 Hotels in Bath, UK

• Hotel Express by Holiday Inn Bath – 2-star Hotel – Double from £ 109
• Hotel Barcelo’ Combe Grove Manor – 4-star Hotel – Double from £ 189
• Queen Charlottes Orangery – Bed & Breakfast – Double from £ 110
• Wentworth House Hotel – 2-star Hotel – Double from £ 75
• Bath Priory Hotel & Restaurant – 4-star Hotel – Double from £ 260

Photo of the Circus, Bath, UK, by Shanathalas

so named because it follows the Otley Road which runs from Leeds city centre (starting as Woodhouse Lane), out to Far Headingley and beyond.

The Otley Run is a route well trodden by the student clubs and societies (frequently in fancy dress), and if you want to see a bit of the real Leeds outside the city centre, then this crawl will show you a side of the city that is both studenty and local, from friendly, cosy pubs to the more upbeat and trendy bars. So, hold onto your hats, I am now going to take you on the mother of all pub crawls:

1. Woodies Ale House, Far Headingley

This is the traditional start of the Otley Run, but Woodies is a great place to go for a drink in its own right. Close to Leeds Metropolitan University Beckett Park Campus, Woodies is loved for its good ales, and is fraternised by locals and students alike. It’s an old pub which is open plan and has a nice wooden interior and a beer garden. You can get Greene King and Ruddles here – so say no more!

2. The Three Horseshoes, Far Headingley

Heading back down the Otley Road in the direction of the city centre you next come to The Three Horseshoes, which is a small traditional stone built pub. There is a welcoming atmosphere, and the place is renowned for its pub quizzes and home cooked food.

3. The New Inn, Far Headingley

The next on the route is the New Inn, which is another pretty stone built pub which looks a bit like a country cottage. You can sit out on benches at the front and watch the world go by as you sip on a real ale, and if the weather’s cold, then you can lounge inside on their comfy chairs and sofas.

4. Headingley Taps, Headingley

The Headingley Taps has an interesting frontage that would not be out of place on the canalside in Amsterdam, but it’s actually like that because it used to be a water pumping station! Now it’s a Wetherspoon’s pub, and so has a fair selection of ales, lagers and other drinks at affordable prices. The service is friendly, and there is plenty of space to park your car at the front.

5. The Arc, Headingley

And now for something completely different – a modern structure in glass and concrete, The Arc really is in the shape of an arc, and has a decidedly contemporary and stylish feel. There are bars on two levels, a lovely view from the balcony, and a lawned garden. The drinks may be a little more expensive here, but the range of beers, wines and cocktails is top class.

6. The Box, Headingley

The Box also has a very urban and stylish feel, with a distinctly box-like exterior. It is a sports bar with screens showing all the big games, and it certainly seems to attract the sporty types. There is a good selection of drinks, and it is known for its large cocktails. Expect decent prices and fast service.

7. The Skyrack, Headingley

The Skyrack is another sports bar, and there are bouncers on the door. You can drink al fresco here if you wish, and they even have outdoor heaters to drive away any winter chills. If you fancy a game of pool there are a couple of pool tables in their own special area.

8. The Original Oak, Headingley

With a whopping great beer garden this pub is great for drinking outdoors, and they sometimes even have a barbecue on. This is one of the most popular student pubs in the area, with bars on two levels, sports screens, and sofas. With reasonably priced drinks this place quickly gets crowded, adding to its lively atmosphere.

9. The Hyde Park, Hyde Park Corner

Popular with students, indie rockers, and sports lovers, the Hyde Park tends to get crowded. They have regular quizzes, and even pool and poker tournaments. They do pub grub, but this is probably not the place to go for a quiet meal!

10. The Library, Woodhouse Lane

Housed in a beautiful municipal-style building, The Library actually used to be a library. They do a good selection of drinks at reasonable prices, and some decent pub food. They have some comedy nights and live music upstairs, making it a good place for small, intimate gigs.

11. The Packhorse, Woodhouse Lane

The Packhorse does a good pint, and attracts the serious real ale lovers. It has a decidedly more local feel than some of the pubs on the crawl. Loved for its character, this pub has been known to become a firm favourite with former students who have settled in the area.

12. The Eldon, Woodhouse Lane

Being right opposite the university, The Eldon is popular with both staff and students alike from that venerable institution. Here you will find a traditional pub interior of wooden screens topped by leaded glass where you can enjoy your pint of real ale in style. There are big plasma screens for watching the sports, but also places to sit where you don’t see them, if keeping an eye on the rugby or soccer is not for you. There is a menu of very reasonably priced pub food, including fish and chips, rump steak and other goodies.

13. The Fenton, Woodhouse Lane

Next on the crawl is the lively and friendly little pub known as The Fenton, which is renowned for its good and reasonably priced real ales. They have Tetley bitter, plus a couple of good guest ales, as well as a fair range of wines. There is also good pub grub with tons of chips! To keep you entertained there is a pool table and a digital juke box.

14. Strawberry Fields, (Strawbs) Woodhouse Lane

But to give you a complete change of scene – Strawberry Fields, aka Strawbs, is not really a pub at all. A cafe by day and a bar by night, you’ll know Strawbs when you see it, because the front is red with massive great strawberries painted on it. Here you can buy some terrific cocktails such as White Russian, Strawberry Sin, Banana Rumble, and a whole rainbow more of them. They also do alcopops, as well as draught and bottled lagers. And the real piece de resistance of Strawbs is that you can even get absinthe here! Mind how you go.

15. The Dry Dock, Woodhouse Lane

And finally we’ve made it to the end of our pub crawl – The Dry Dock looks like a washed up barge in the middle of the road opposite Leeds Met Uni, but in fact it’s a pretty cool pub, with a strong appeal to the alt punk, emo and screamo brigade. Having said that it is a friendly place, and you’ll love it if you like Green Day, New Order, Nine Inch Nails and the like. Here you can get a variety of beers and lagers at affordable prices.

What a long strange journey it’s been! So if you feel like reliving your student days, seeing another side of Leeds, and discovering some good pubs and bars in the process, then the Otley Run could be just what you need.

Top 3 Leeds Hotels on Venere.com

• Holiday Inns Leeds Armouries – 2-star Hotel – Double Room from £ 69
• Crown Plaza Hotel – 4-star Hotel – Double Room from £ 69
• Bewleys Hotel – 3-star Hotel – Double Room from £ 109

Photo of beer ad in Leeds, UK, by Si Wilson

Dear Travel Agony Aunt,
I’m planning for a 6 days visit to UK, with my family (3 of us altogether) some time in the month of September this year. I’m thinking of spending 3 days visiting places in London and the remaining three days in Scotland. Would you please give advice on the places to visit? Sandhya, from Chennai, India

A 3-day visit in Scotland could let you discover both Edinburgh and Glasgow:

If you are visiting Edinburgh is worth getting the Edinburgh pass which will allow you not only to easily access to every city corner but also discovering the Edinburgh’s main attractions will be easy for budget!

Edinburgh has a lot of things to offer to travelers. While wandering around the city, you may take a ride on the famous Edinburgh Dungeon in Market Street, explore the Murder and Mistery Tour, visit John Knox’s House and St Giles Cathedral at the Royal Mile.

The Nelson Monument will give you the chance to appreciate one of the best panoramic views of Edinburgh.

The Camera Obscura and the World of Illusions is a must see in Edinburgh. You will surely be delighted by this Edinburgh attraction, that creates a magnificent panorama out of a game of lenses, daylight and mirrors.

But what is Scotland famous for? This is no doubt Malt whisky! Have you ever visited a true Malt distillery? If not, Glenkinchie Distillery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. for the whole month of September.

In Edinburgh Waverly EDB station you will be able to take the train that will lead you to Glasgow in a 45-minute-ride.

The Clyde Bridges, the Glasgow Botanic Gardens with the Kibble Palace (completely renovated), the Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis, the Glasgow Science Centre, the IMAX, Pollok House and Country Park, as well as Provand’s Lordship, the only medieval house remaining from the 15th Century, are a must-do when visiting Glasgow.

For more advise on what to see and visit in London, you can have a glance at my “London in 3 Days” post:

Hope you enjoy a great time both in London and Scotland!

Picture of Edinburgh, Scotland, by Subberculture

Travel Answer Man lists the world’s 15 best food markets including the Spice Market in Istanbul, Turkey, Chatuchak Market in Bangkok, Thailand, Mercado De La Merced in Mexico City, Mexico, Mercat De La Boqueria in Barcelona, Spain, Mercato Coperto in Modena, Italy, Pike Place Market in Seattle, USA,  Djemaa el-Fna in Marrakech, Morocco,  the English Market in Cork, Ireland, Ferry Plaza Farmers Market in San Francisco, USA, and more colorful street markets all over the planet.

Hens and Stag Parties

On Times Online, check out the most popular destinations for stag and hen parties in Europe according to Hotels.com and Wedding Ideas Magazine. It seems like most of hens’ favorite places for stag parties are in the UK with London, Brighton and  Edinburgh at the top of the list.

Italian Beauty

Italian Notebook shares some nice pictures of Ancona, a seaside city on the East Coast of Italy that offers visitors spectacular views over the Adriatic Sea.

Eat organic in the City of Lights

Secrets of Paris lists six organic restaurants, shops and markets in the French capital. So if you’re looking for organic food in Paris, head to BioArt, Victoire Supreme de Coeur, Bio Coop, Cojean, Boulangerie du Monde and Marché Biologique Raspail.

London iPhone applications

If you’re planning a trip to the UK and possess an iPhone, read Anglotopia.net and get useful tips for traveling to London with your Apple phone.

Photo of Istanbul Spice Market by Alaskan Dude

Additionally, some of these drinks aren’t at all hard to make and sample, however strange they may seem.

Lemonade – Britain

Victorian recipe books record numerous (and often strange) ways of making the perfect lemonade, which was usually consumed in the garden accompanied by a reserved game of bridge – some recipes even involve leaving overnight and straining through muslin (in layman’s terms, the thin material often used to make curtains and wedding dresses alike). A general consensus reached by most is to include some of the bitter rind into the recipe somewhere along the line for taste.

Polish Rhubarb Honey – Poland

As you might have guessed from the title, this popular Polish summer drink is extremely refreshing with the sourness of the rhubarb contrasting with the sweetness of the honey all poured over ice. It tastes a little bit like cranberry juice and is probably a little bit healthier than the Lemonade because of the addition of honey.

Limoncello – Italy

Before the seasoned Starbucks fan inquires, the Frappuccino is merely a product of the vivid imaginations of corporate fat cats who wanted to find a way to keep coffee sales high in the summer and is no more Italian than the Yeti. But Limoncello, thankfully, is. It’s simply an Italian lemon liqueur made from sugar, lemons, water and pure alcohol and is frequently drunk cold after meal times to aid digestion.

Strawberry Bowle – Germany

It’s called “Bowle” because it’s served from a large glass bowl in the manner of Punch. Made with Brandy, Champagne, Dry White Wine, and Strawberries, it’s said to be quite a good mix. It should be served in a wide, flat glass with a bit of fruit in the manner of a martini. It’s deceptively light while actually very alcoholic.

La Terre Rouge– France

A simple Red French table wine, ideal for picnics and for just about anything, comes from a blend merlot, grenache, and carignan grapes from different regions of Southern France to at varying altitudes and temperatures to really give the wine some substance.

Sangria – Spain

Sangria is a wine punch consumed all over Spain during the sweltering summers. There are many different variants and recipes of the famous drink, but most include red wine, lemonade, and fruit. Many modern varieties contain shots of Bacardi or Vodka, or vast amounts of ice and 7-up to weaken it accordingly, which may be wise if some of the drinkers are a little youthful and inexperienced. It’s so popular in Spain that it can even be bought bottled, but that detracts from the fun of making it yourself and serving it with the authentic bits of fruit floating around in it.

Photo of refreshing drinks by Mickael Dietch

In such instances, most of us will ending up asking that vital question – Should we drop by the UK ? After all, we are already here and it’s just across the Channel, we tell ourselves.

It could be a concerted effort to nab two birds with one stone. It is more likely due to sulking friends/family in the UK who will be terribly hurt if we didn’t come by.

And so there is the question – What are the different ways to travel from Amsterdam (or any major city in Netherlands) to the UK?

Good news is, there are four ways to reach the UK via Netherlands (through Amsterdam or Rotterdam). And they are train, coach, good old airplane flights and of course, the much talked about ferry ride.

How to get to U.K. from Netherlands  by train

If you get jittery on airplanes or feel a tad seasick on boats, having the train ride option will be a welcome surprise.

So what’s this useful train trip all about? If you check the Hispeed website (yep, the site is in Dutch and English), you will see the handy option of reaching London from Amsterdam. The trip itself is close to 6 hours and excepting one train switchover in Belgium, the whole ride offers to be a relaxing uneventful trip.

It’s a two part trip: first half involves the Intercity train from Amsterdam to Brussels; the second half requires taking the Eurostar from Brussels to the center of London right down to St Pancras station.

Do note that Amsterdam is not the only Dutch city that can take you to Brussels. Apparently you can take the Intercity from Amsterdam, Schiphol, The Hague HS, Rotterdam, Dordrecht or Roosendaal. This way you can hop over to the station closest to you.

It seems like a return fare for one person can cost Euro 99 if you opt for certain type of fare (2nd class, super saver, etc. etc.).

How to get to U.K. from Netherlands  by coach

Then there is coach. This is another handy option for those who get a tad woozy on flights.

Eurolines seem to the popular option when traveling by coach. It’s good to note that these buses travel all over Europe, offering trips to nations across the Channel (Great Britain) or to the far flung East European countries (Ukraine) as well as to the ones across the Mediterranean Sea (Morocco).

There are several stops for Great Britain itself (all of which are located either in Canterbury, London or Dover). While prices differ according to date and type of fare (e.g. Flexible or Cheap), the starting price, on average, for one person seems to be between Euro 65 – 80.

These are all non-smoking coaches, most of which allow you to bring your own food and drink. And no need to fret about getting restless on the journey; apparently there will be multiple stops whereby you can walk around to stretch your legs or buy a refreshing cup of coffee.

How to get to U.K. from Netherlands  by air

Enough about travel by land, what if you prefer flying?

Good news about flights is that a number of airlines travel between Amsterdam and Great Britain. KLM, British Airways and BMI are just some of the options.

If you check any of the popular booking sites, you can find a number of flight options. Hence flights won’t be covered in great detail. While prices vary, it does seem like return tickets for one person can start out at Euro 125.

How to get to U.K. from Netherlands  by ferry

Admittedly, this is one of the most popular means of traveling between Great Britain and Netherlands. In this case, it must be the festive atmosphere and jovial social mingling that adds to the appeal of the ferry.

There seems to be several options available for the happy seafarers. Firstly, you can choose the ferry from Rotterdam to the port of Hull in East Yorkshire. It’s an overnight trip boasting good food and onboard entertainment and thus looks to be interesting just for the ferry ride itself. The starting price (per person and applying to those traveling by foot) is Euro 69.

Then there is the Hoek Van Holland to Harwich option. This ferry ride offers days trips as well as overnight trips. It starts out at Pounds 75 for day trips but do keep in mind this price does include payment for cabin.

For those of you who would rather stick to Northern Holland for the duration of the trip, there’s always the Amsterdam (IJmuiden)-Newcastle option. Ferry services of DFDS offer trips between Netherlands and Great Britain. Ijmuiden is a port located outside Amsterdam.

To get there, travelers can catch the train to Driehuis or jump on the DFDS Seaways shuttle from the Central Railway Station in Amsterdam to Felison Terminal in Ijmuiden. Those catching the train might want to double check the bus routes from this site. The Driehuis station is a bit of a distance from the ferry and getting there might involve two buses and a bit of walking. Since the site is in Dutch, here’s a bit of heads up. Van means from; for this bit, click treinstation (train station) and type Driehuis as station name. Naar means to; I choose the postcode for DFDS Seaways which was 1975 AG. Vertrek means departure so keep that checked. When you choose geef reisadvies, you will be given a breakdown of how to get to Ijmuiden from Driehuis. Be sure to check the route from Google Maps so as to have a good idea of where you are headed.

After choosing cabins and meals for both trips (to and from Newcastle), you might end up with close to Pounds 220 per person for the return trip.

And there you have it. Four different ways to get to U.K. from the Netherlands.

Photo of Amsterdam Central Station by jelleprins

Therefore to really sample that which is truly Liverpool, you need to focus on the locally-owned eateries rather than the fast food spots and the national chains. This is especially true if your preference is vegetarian. It may seem a uphill task to find a decent restaurant that serves vegetarian delights but listed below are some of the top recommended vegetarian eateries in all of Liverpool.

1. Green Fish Café

Ovo, lacto, and Vegan-friendly restaurant

Breakfast is served until noon. After that the full menu is available. This is one of the busier vegetarian eateries in the city, so be prepared for a wait whenever you decide to come sample the varied menu. The menu includes items baked potatoes, curry, humous, roasted vegetables, salads, soya chili, and much more.

2. Next to Nowhere

English Vegan cuisine

Volunteers from the Merseyside region operate this radical social establishment featuring a kitchen space for providing an all Vegan veggie cuisine. It is also considered a non-profit establishment as well. One thing you will immediately notice is the abundance of political materials on animal rights.

3. Soupernatural

Fast-food, salad bar, and take-out venue that is ovo, lacto, and Vegan-friendly.

This is primarily a breakfast and lunch vegetarian eatery featuring salads, sandwiches and usually 4-5 different soups on the menu. Soya milk is the beverage of choice and despite the take-out venue, there are a few tables inside where you can enjoy your meal if you choose.

4. The Egg Café

Ovo, lacto, Vegan-friendly restaurant

This restaurant usually offers a couple of different soups each day and offers you a casual relaxed setting to enjoy a meal in. There are typically 3 daily specials, one of which is always Vegan, with a Sunday Vegan roast afternoon special.

5. Green Days Café

Ovo, lacto, and Vegan-friendly, but not 100% vegetarian food

The food served is additive and preservative-free and targets the pescatarian tastes as well as the vegetarian. Three fish dishes are featured on the menu with nearly 30 vegetarian dishes so you are bound to find something to satiate your palette.

Photo by D. [SansPretentionAucun e] (•̪●) ✪

You may think that this is to give hyperbole slightly too free a rein since the gaudy, loud and flashy aspects of modern British culture are in evidence here too, but they don’t detract from the city’s old world charm and interest. The main reason for the city’s appeal is its long history, a history that has been either remarkably well preserved or lovingly restored. As such, the main sights are the Minster, the Jorvik centre, the city’s walls and its medieval streets themselves.

York Minster

York Minster, or cathedral, is one of the finest and largest examples of the Gothic style. The Minster is over 1,000 years old and is the second highest Bishopric in the Church of England (the highest being Canterbury). Visitors can marvel at the imposing stain glass windows before heading down into the undercroft, which contains examples of architectural styles from Viking times to the modern day. If the gloom of the undercroft gets too much, then finally climb up the tower for its fantastic view across the city and a chance to blow the cobwebs out of your hair.

The Jorvik centre

The Jorvik centre (pronounced Yor-vik), is a salute to the Viking occupation of England during the dark ages. The name is the Norse name for York. Since the Viking occupation was so long ago very little has survived from that time and so the Jorvik centre sets out to recreate York as it would have been. This is done through the use of ‘animatronic dioramas’ and live actors to manifest the appropriate sights, sounds and even smells (the squeamish should beware). This is an entertaining as well as informative approach to history which appeals to both young and old and so is an option for visitors with children unwilling to visit yet another museum.

York Medieval City

The medieval city walls have been well preserved in York (and a little re-built as well). This means they provide a relatively flat two and a half mile walk around the city from which you can see most of the major sights on one side and the modern city outside the wall on the other. Of course, the walls being outside and this being northern England the weather can play a large part in whether you enjoy the walk but it’s fun in any condition except sustained rain.

In a similar vein, many of the ancient streets inside the walls are worth spending some time to wander about. They are even called ‘the Shambles’ and this gives you some idea of what to expect. The cobbled alleyways, overhanging buildings and narrow lanes barely wide enough to drive a pig through, all combine with some Regency and Victorian twee to provide a multi-era historical experience not to be found elsewhere.

There are people who have gained all they know about history from costume dramas. These people do not realise that history is primarily about the mingling of high and low cultures, the meeting of the upper and lower classes and the ever-present seedy underbelly of life. People who do not realise this will also not realise quite how accurate the portrait of history painted in York really is.

Photo of York Minster by phill.d

Located in the north western region of the country this rural area stretches around thirty four miles across. Numerous eras of glaciations has created this unique geography that has been immortalized in the poems of the Lake Poets, the most famous of whom were William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge and Robert Southey. U-shaped valleys that were carved by ice are now lakes bordered by mountains. Its beauty had attracted visitors for ever but organized tourism really began with A Guide to the Lakes by Father Thomas West that was published in 1778 where the Father lists vista points that best showcased the landscape. William Wordsworth’s Guide to the Lakes [later editions were called A Guide through the District of the Lakes in the North of England] published a little more than three decades later made the region even more popular.

Official estimation is that about fourteen million visitors visit the Lake District of England every year, so much so that tourism has become the main contributor to the local economy. The most used guide today, however, is Alfred Wainwright’s Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells. There is an unofficial competition among tourists to see who manages to visit the complete list mentioned in Wainwright’s guide. Everywhere you look it is like a living picture postcard. Scenic beauty, abundant and extraordinary wildlife, a rich cultural heritage and numerous small towns are all reasons why the Lake District is the most visited tourist site in the country.

Scenic beauty

A mix of lakes, mountains, forests, woodlands, and farms give this region a diverse landscape. Each valley, with its own distinct visual, has its own unique way of making the tourist’s trip memorable. The Lake District National Park is the largest National Park in England. It includes England’s highest point which is the Scafell Pike mountain and the country’s deepest point in Westwater Lake. Because of its geography the National Park, and in fact the whole Lake District, is high in humidity. This encourages the growth of Atlantic mosses, ferns and lichen. The green of the pastures here is unmatchable. The hills mirrored in the stillness of the lake waters are a sight to behold. The National Park not only has enough to please the eyes but it has so much for the thrill seeker in the tourists. There are great opportunities for trekking and mountaineering. A plethora of guides offer mapped routes through the district along with an elaborate web of public rights of way. The more adventurous tourist can, with unrestricted access to the forests and fells, make their own expeditions. A swim in the lakes isn’t off the list of things to do either. If a dip is not on your cards, how about sailing or fishing? Windermere Lake Steamer rides have become one of the most popular charged rides in England. Dunnerdale or Duddon Valley in the Lake District National Park was Wordsworth’s favorite place.

Flora and Fauna

The Lake District is home to some species which are not found anywhere else in England. The red squirrel, an omnivorous tree rodent, is common here, in spite of its decreasing numbers all over England. Sundew and Butterworth are two carnivorous plants that exist in large colonies here. The Vendace, the Schelly and the Arctic Charr are three species of fish that are on the rare and endangered list. Limestone pavements, mires, lakeshore wetlands, estuaries and dunes are all key habitats.

Cultural Tourism

With so many artists and littérateurs enthralled with the Lake District cultural tourism is the new trend here. People come to visit the place that strengthened Wordsorth’s Nature philosophy, his idea of the one spirit running through man, nature and God. The daffodils blooming on the shores of the lake Ullswater inspired his famous ‘I wandered lonely as a cloud’. The poet’s childhood home in Penrith and his last resting place in the Grasmere churchyard are both important stops in the tourist’s route. Coleridge’s son is also buried nearby. John Ruskin spent his last years in a home in Brantwood. Beatrix Potter lived at Hill Top Farm and used her home and its surroundings as the setting for her famous children’s books, the Peter Rabbit series. Some theories even suggest that the Arthurian legends’ Grail kingdom of Listeneise was also actually the Lake District.

Towns in the Lake District

It isn’t just the mountains and lakes and fells, the quaint little towns in the Lake District of England are great tourist attractions too. Ambleside has some great place to stay in and eat at. Appleby is a great base for a trip to the Eden Valley. The Bewcastle Cross in Bewcastle is a seventh century artifact. Bowness was a site of the Roman army camp and is closest to Hadrian’s Wall’s western end. Keswick with some of the most beautiful landscapes in the whole district is called the Queen of the Lake District. Kendal is often referred to as the Gateway to the Lake District. An ancient market town, Kendal is located in the heart of Cumbria and has several attractions like the Church of Holy Trinity from the thirteenth century and the twelfth century Kendal Castle ruins. With a charming downtown that has shops, restaurants and pubs and also important museums of the Lake District, Kendal is the ideal vacation spot for the wearied tourist.

So whether you are looking for history or literature or just heavenly peace and quiet, this is your place to be.

Photo of Wastwater Lake, Cumbria, UK, by Ennor

Making holiday or vacation arrangements that include one of the historical tours of Scotland will avail you with a myriad of choices when searching the internet for options. Here are examples of some of the more popular historic tours of Scotland:

Edinburgh & Lothians

Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital and an excellent city to start your tour historical in. When you visit Edinburgh Castle, you will enjoy the panoramic views of the Royal Mile as it meanders through Old Town. Edinburgh hosts the world’s largest arts festival and also features a wide array of cafes, galleries, museums, pubs, restaurants, and theaters. Surrounding the city is the Lothians, one of Scotland’s more traditional historical regions with its beaches, historical sites, and quaint little towns.

Kingdom of Fire

The ancient kingdom of Fire affords you with a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy its cathedrals, gardens, palaces, and numerous castles. Additionally, you can enjoy the visiting the delightful little fishing villages situated among the harbors of the Scottish coastline all the way to the renowned home of the game of golf – St Andrews.

Perthshire

Perthshire is situated in the very heart of the country and is the perfect base from which to explore Scotland. If it’s a more active vacation that you desire then there are fishing, golfing, and hill walking. If on the other hand, a more historical and relaxing experience is what you crave then you can take in one of the many castle tours, museums, or theaters in the area.

Angus and Dundee

Dundee is very cosmopolitan and features a nice variety of, cafes, restaurants, and shops as well as some very unique entertainment. Angus surrounds Dundee, and provides the traveler with numerous castles, country houses, mountains, and lochs to explore. There are plenty of adventurous pursuits in the outdoors to engage in while visiting this historical area of Scotland.

Aberdeen and Grampian

The 3rd largest Scottish city is Aberdeen, and it affords the traveler a wide array of entertainment and numerous shopping venues. There are more mountains above 4,000 feet in this region as well as over 100 miles of pristine coastline and hills that tumble down to the seacoast. Additionally, there is an abundance of historic castles and whiskey distilleries to tour.

The Western Isles

A different culture and language as well as very distinctive landscape is offered the visitor when exploring the Western Isles. The beautiful beaches, spectacular landscape, and an abundance of wildlife await your adventure through this historical area of Scotland. Additionally, it is a great place to relax and unwind at the end of your day.

Photo of Edinburgh Castle, Scotland, by g.naharro

Drinking in an English Bar

1. In England, in pubs or bars, you can have drinks but you are not allowed to get drunk; and in Scotland you are on the wrong side of the law if you are drunk and in possession of a cow.

The “Tube”

2. In London the tube route from Leicester Square to Covenant Garden is the most popular tube route for tourists despite the fact that it is actually quicker to cover this distance on foot!

3. The tube system, despite being the first and the largest underground system in the world, is also the most unreliable and the costliest.

4. The 409 escalators in the London subway cover a distance every week which is approximately equivalent to several trips around the globe!

Royal Eccentrics

5. Not surprisingly, it is considered one of the strangest historical facts that Berengaria of Navarre, who was married to King Richard of England, had never once stepped on English soil!

6. Did you know that the Windsor Castle is the oldest royal residence in the world that is still being used by the royal family and that the Buckingham Palace was built in 1702 on the site of an infamous brothel!

7. It is also believed to be haunted by many ghosts including those of Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth I, King George, and Charles I.

8. The Queen of England, who once enjoyed extensive powers and authority over almost the whole world, and despite all her present majesty and glory, is not allowed to enter the House of Commons simply because she is not its member!

9. And in medieval England even animals were tried in royal courts and punished for damages they inflicted on people or their properties!

Tea Drinking

10. The English are tea addicts: an Englishman drinks more tea than any person of any other nation (over twenty times more than Americans!).

Big Ben is not a clock

11. Contrary to popular belief that Big Ben refers to the world famous clock, it is actually the name of the thirteen ton bell. The tower itself is known as St. Stephen’s Tower.

Where do they come from?

12. That London is one of the cities with the high cultural diversity in the world, can be gauged from the fact that about 25% of the inhabitants of London were born outside of England!

London, London

13. One of the most well-known theatres of The United Kingdom is the Theatre Royal Bristol that has been continuously staging “Cats” since 1766!

14. Did you know that London has had many names in the past? It was called Londonium during the Roman Invasion, Ludenwic in Saxon times, and Ludenburg during the kingdom of Alfred the Great.

15. The London Eye is the tallest observation wheel in the world and each rotation takes about 30 minutes.

16. In the Great Fire of London that wreaked havoc on the city and necessitated massive reconstruction work, the casualty count was only eight!

17. The treasures contained in the British Museum span two million years of world civilization.

The bridge that fell down 1000 years ago

18. You must have heard the “London Bridge is falling down” nursery rhyme. Did you know that this rhyme might be over a thousand years old? The Saxons destroyed London Bridge using boats and ropes to tear it down. People think that is how the rhyme originated.

19. Did you know that the river Thames, which flows through London, has over 200 bridges and 20 tunnels?

What an amazing and endearing part of our exciting world!

Photo of London by harshilshah100

Despite the fact that the busiest nightlife occurs from October through May due to the arrival of college students, Belfast’s night spots and pubs are buzzing with activity year round. However, when the university is in full swing, the bars, bistros, clubs, and pubs can get quite crowded, so keep that in mind when visiting the city.

Granted, Belfast abounds with historic pubs filled with friendly locals, but the onset of the hip, modern bars and clubs has targeted the trendier, younger audience. The more traditional pubs tend to be scattered throughout the city and nestled into the quieter pedestrian lanes. However, these nightspots geared towards the younger crowd are typically clustered in and around the University Quarter. Here is a list of some of the best nightspots and pubs in Belfast.

1. The Crown Liquor Saloon

The jewel of Ireland’s pub scene, originally built in 1826, this establishment sits opposite Belfast’s Europa Hotel and the city’s Grand Opera House and affords the visitor the best in both Gothic and Victorian décor.

2. White’s Tavern

One of the more historical pubs in the city, originally constructed in 1630 as a wine shop. It is tucked away down one of Belfast’s historic cobblestone trading streets in the heart of the city.

3. The Milk Bar Club

Located in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, this dance club is the hot spot for the 20-somethings looking for a dance club to spend their evening in. The club features a wide array of music spanning everything from Disco to R&B, with a splash of House music thrown in for good measure.

4. Empire Music Hall

One of the legendary club and music scene establishments that has been converted from the original structure – a Victorian Church. It was redesigned to accommodate the Belfast nightlife and is three stories of bars and music. Whether it is traditional Irish music or Jazz, Blues or Rock and Roll, you will find here.

5. Limelight and Katy Daly’s

This is a combination of club and pub that is typically friendlier and far less trendy than some of its counterparts in the city. You can enjoy nightly performances of rock bands in the music space, or relax and enjoy a couple of pints in the stripped down bar.

So, relax and enjoy your holiday in Belfast with Celtic culture and traditions.

Photo of Belfast by TBSteve 

It’s no huge surprise then that tea has been one of the widely drunk and important beverages throughout the ages all over the world. It’s more than just a drink. It’s a medicine, it’s a tradition, it’s a reason for people to be together. The leaves might come from miles away but the love of a brew is found all over. In France, Spain and Italy you’re likely to get lemon and sugar but never milk or a biscuit. Further east you’re likely to find more herbal teas. In the UK you’ll get a bag thrown in a cup for a second then milk. India, China and Japan have a huge custom with tea but how does differ around Europe?

Great Britain

Although the leaves come from miles away on the other side of the world, few could fail to notice the immediate association the Brits have with their tea. It’s quite simply as iconic as the Queen. Tea first made it way over here during the reign of Charles II in the 17th Century. Largely through the British East India Company during the colonial occupation of India. It became the drink of the aristocracy and a signifier of British decadence. Now though it’s drunk in every echelon of society, from the building site to the Ritz. It’s not just a drink it’s a time of the day. Tea at three, with cucumber sandwiches followed by scones and cream is as popular today as it’s ever been. In the quaint green parts of the English countryside you’ll find delightful little places called tearooms, where the British love for their tea is more obvious than anywhere. The addition of milk to their tea is what makes tea very different from anywhere else.

Russia

In Russia it’s more about what it looks like than what it tastes like. The majesty of the drinking devices make tea drinking more beautiful than in most countries. They brew the black tea in a teapot, like the Brits, but then transfer it to podstakanniks, which are beautiful silver, nickel or gold goblets that hold a glass inside. They drink from these after meals and serve the tea very strong with a sugar and lemon but never milk. The stronger the tea, the more welcoming the host. The big difference between Russia and the UK is the lack of a bag. Only lose blacks leaves are found in Russia.

Czech Republic

This is perhaps the most interesting of recent developments in the world of tea in Europe. Not a million miles away from the British tearooms, the Czech Republic in recent years has seen a tea phenomenon strike up. A cajovna is where people go, like they would do a bar, to hang out, lounge on the rugs, sofas and chairs and socialise whilst being served a huge variety of teas from around the world all served in their traditional styles. Dobra Cajovna in Prague was one of the first of these tearooms to pop up and following its success the last decade has seen Prague host more tearooms per square miles than anywhere else in the world.

Photo by visualpanic

Nearly every country in the world has their own favourite “Simple” food. In the USA, for example, it’s the Hot Dog. In Saudi Arabia it’s the Shawarma. In the UK, we have our world famous Fish and Chips; more often both spelt and pronounced “fish ‘n’ chips”.To the Anglophobe, Fish and Chips are deep-fried, rough-cut slices of potato (to be differentiated from the American “Fries” – in that they aren’t all of uniform size and shape) and served alongside a battered, deep-fried fish (usually either Cod or Haddock). Before being wrapped up in paper and presented with a wooden fork, they’re doused in Malt Vinegar and snowfalls of salt before being lustily devoured, usually outside.

Traditionally, Fish and Chips were nearly always only eaten by the working class as an alternative to packed sandwiches, as being one of the cheapest, most satisfying meals that money could buy, but consumption of them also came to be associated as a seaside-holiday treat. If you were to go up and talk to say, an octogenarian in the UK nowadays, and ask him of his childhood memories, you could put money on at least one of them involving Fish and Chips!

Fish and Chips are traditionally served in “chippies”, places where cheeky posters and advertisements are plastered all over the white-tiled walls. “Chippies” nearly always sell other items as well, such as “Fish Cake”, “Jumbo Sausage”, “Pickled Gherkin” and “Pukka Pies”. I’ll leave it to your research and experience to find out just what they are!

However, throughout the latter part of the 20th century, Fish and Chips started to lose their popularity. Increasing wealth across all classes, as well as perhaps changing tastes, not to mention the all-important factor of globalisation, has meant that many people now prefer Doner Kebabs and Turkish/Arabic inspired food, and of course the Curry that most Brits seem to enjoy most commonly washed down with Lager.

The different and changing face of the industry today still reflects the way the industry is headed – depressingly, few could argue that it’s not still in decline. Tourists visiting London may find a dire lack of places still offering the real, authentic deal, at least for a sensible price. The escalating cost of the “delicacy” also means that they just don’t quite offer the value that they’re meant to represent – the common gripe is that they cost double than what they cost 10 years ago.

While the struggling industry has yet to see a real revival, it continues to press on, in one form or another. Many famous British Gourmet chefs praise them for their simplicity and taste. And increasingly there have been outlets and posh places hoping serving the dish to a more upmarket and increasingly prosperous clientele, so hopefully they’ll still be around, at least fleetingly, in the years to come.

Thanks for reading and enjoy your travels!

Enjoy Traditional Fish and Chips photo by dearbarbie

1. Blackpool Tower

Although it is less grandiose than the Eiffel Tower, this wrought-iron structure has kept tourists flocking to Blackpool since its construction in 1894. At the top, visitors can take a ‘walk of faith’ over a glass floor that looks all 158 metres down. It’s not all about the top of the tower though, tourists can also enjoy an aquarium, ball room, circus and children’s play area all-day from £9, booking online. The entrance to Blackpool Tower is along the sea front between North and Central piers.

2. The Pleasure Beach

What was known as the world’s largest free attraction is going to start charging admission soon, so get round the rides and arcades quick. Highlights include the Pepsi Max Big One which held the title of the world’s tallest rollercoaster when it opened in 1994, the loop-the-loop Revolution ride, fire and water flume Valhalla, shows and an ice rink. A book of tickets that would provide reasonable access to rides, classified from A to C, with shows used to cost about £20. Find the Pleasure Beach a short taxi ride from the airport at South Pier.

3. The Sandcastle

This is the place to take the family for flumes, water rides and a wave pool. There are 18 attractions in total from £6 for youngsters all day. The pools are patrolled by lifeguards and there are places to eat and drink during breaks. A horn signals the start of the wave machine that is one of the biggest attractions as well as the green flumes, which take swimmers outside the Sandcastle building and back in again. The Sandcastle is located opposite the Pleasure Beach by South Pier.

4. The Golden Mile

The mile-stretch of arcades got its name because of its row upon row of slot machine, gamblers and game stations from North to Central Pier. Parrot-fronted Coral Island is probably one of the most famous gaming emporiums where people can play air hockey, basketball and bowl as well as have a go on the machines. The arcades are interspersed with attractions like Madam Tussauds Wax Museum, a Dr Who exhibition and palm or crystal ball-reading gypsies.

5. The Illuminations

Every September, Blackpool is lit up with hundreds of thousands of light bulbs and tabloids during the Illuminations. Coaches come from miles around to buy fish and chips and travel the glittering light show that stretches for 10km from Starr Gate near Blackpool Airport to Bispham in the north of the town. Celebrities are invited to make ‘the big switch on’, which takes place on September 4th this year, with the Illuminations running until November 8th. Blackpool Council recently launched an Illuminations bike ride for interested guests, which takes place at the start of the show.

Photo of rollercoaster at The Pleasure Beach, Blackpool, UK, by johnthescone

The point where the twin cities of Manchester and Salford meet was once nothing more than the derelict home of heavy industry and the final stop on the Manchester Ship Canal. However, Salford Quays has experienced something of a transformation over recent years and is now the beating heart of the North West’s cultural and media scene.

With its unique mixture of heritage, leisure and retail, all set on a stunning and ever-changing waterside location, the area is quickly becoming one of Manchester’s most sought after destinations.

How to get there

The easiest way to reach Salford Quays is by hopping on one of the frequent trams from the city centre. An adult return ticket costs approximately £2 depending on the time of travel and can be purchased from the machine on the platform. Note that it is not possible to buy a ticket on the tram and the ticket inspectors are numerous and vigilant!

The Eccles line will take you directly there but if you want to make a side trip to Manchester United football ground, take the Altrincham tram to Old Trafford station.

Visit the Theatre of Dreams

With more than 330 million supporters worldwide, Manchester United Football Club is one of the most popular soccer clubs in the world. Manchester United are the reigning English, European and World Champions having won the 2007–08 Premier League, the 2007–08 UEFA Champions League and the 2008 FIFA Club World Cup.

The impressive Old Trafford stadium is world renowned and more than 200,000 people visit the on-site museum and stadium tour every year. Visitors can steep themselves in the history and atmosphere of the club, experience the backstage excitement of the trophy room and can even get up close to the famous pitch itself.

Tours take place Monday to Sunday between 9.30am and 4.30pm. Advance booking is highly recommended.

Visit the Imperial War Museum North

A short walk round the quays lies the Imperial War Museum North. Housed in an imposing building designed by award winning architect Daniel Libeskind, this is one of Britain’s most innovative and talked-about museums.

Focusing on the way ordinary people’s lives are shaped and changed by conflict from the First World War to present day, the museum is both educational and inspirational.

With hands-on action stations throughout the building, there is plenty to keep younger visitors occupied and a trip to the viewing station at the top of the funnel-like tower is a must, offering breathtaking views over Manchester. Not one for the faint of heart!

Admission to the museum is free and it is open seven days a week, from 10am to 6pm.

Grab a bargain at the Lowry Outlet Mall

Over the suspension bridge from the museum is the Lowry Outlet Mall, a great place for scouting out fantastic bargains on clothes, accessories, electrical goods and homeware.

This is the only factory outlet centre in Manchester, where the stores offer their products at up to 50% of the usual high street price, all year round.

There’s also a cinema complex on the upper level showing all the latest blockbusters.

Dine on the waterside patios

While it’s true that Manchester doesn’t always have the best weather, there is nonetheless the odd sunny day when the views of the spectacular architecture can be enjoyed from the comfort of an al fresco dinner table!

Many of the restaurants have canopies and outdoor heaters to keep the valiant diners warm but if you don’t feel that brave quite yet, it’s just as easy to get a warming meal while safely tucked up inside.

Good refuelling choices include Lime Bar, for lazy drinks, burgers and bar snacks; Café Rouge for excellent coffees, baguettes and other French style light meals; or Pizza Express for reasonably priced pizza and pasta fare.

Catch some live theatre at the Lowry Centre

Rising from the dockland is yet another award winning feat of modern architecture, the Lowry Centre. This multi-purpose cultural centre is a diverse home for the performance and visual arts, encompassing two theatres, restaurant, studio and 1,610 metres of gallery space, showing modern exhibitions alongside the work of famous Salford artist, JS Lowry.

The vibrant interior and open layout of the building encourages visitors to explore and engage with its many attractions – making it a ‘must see’ destination, rather than just a theatrical venue.

The theatres welcome a number of home grown and international performances throughout the year, with an extremely varied programme of theatre, music, family shows and dance meaning there is bound to be something for everyone.

Photo of Salford Quays, Manchester, UK by Manky Maxblack

A trip to Edinburgh is simply not complete without visiting at least one of the traditional breweries on offer in the near vicinity of the city, so take a look at the list below and enjoy an experience that you won’t forget.

• Glenkinchie Distillery

The Glenkinchie Distillery, home of ‘The Edinburgh Malt’, is located 15 miles from Edinburgh near the village of Pencaitland. The distillery includes a malt whisky exhibition in the listed red-brick building and the opportunity to taste the wonderful Glenkinchie Single Malt. Standard entry is £5 although there are concessions available, and visitors should be aware that children under 8, although welcome, are not allowed into the production areas. Opening times vary throughout the year, but it usually closes at either 4pm or 5pm.

• The Famous Grouse Experience

The Famous Grouse Experience takes place at the Glenturret Distillery outside of Crieff, which holds the honour of being Scotland’s oldest distillery. During your time here you can find out how the Glenturret Single Malt Whisky is produced, and how it is blended into The Famous Grouse, as well as spending some time in the nosing and tasting bar. One of the highlights of the visit is the interactive BAFTA award-winning show that should not be missed, and you can top it all off with a trip to the restaurant and bar. Prices start from £4, and tours run between 9.30am and 4pm.

• The Scotch Whisky Experience

The Scotch Whisky Experience is not an actual distillery, but rather provides the perfect opportunity to find out all about this famous Scottish product. It is situated right in the heart of Edinburgh next to the castle, and consists of a whisky tour, shop, restaurant and bar. You can find out all about the history of whisky and the differences between them, enjoy a few tastings, and you may even get a free glass to take home with you. The price is £8.95 with concessions, and it generally closes at 6.30pm or 7pm.

• Tullibardine

About a 45-minute drive north of Edinburgh in Blackford, you will find the Tullibardine Distillery. This popular whisky has an army of loyal fans, and you can enjoy a number of different tours around the distillery, including a 45-minute standard tour, an optional 30-minute tutored tasting, a 90-minute bonded Tour or a 2-hour Connoisseur Tour for the real expert. Entry for the standard tour is £5 with concessions available, and it also has a decent café in which to finish off your trip.

• Blair Athol

Established 1798, Blair Athol is one of the oldest working distilleries in Scotland. Located in the town of Pitlochry, next to the A9 and about 90 minutes from Edinburgh, it is here that the 12-Year-Old Single Malt Whisky is produced. Tours vary throughout the year, and during the summer it is open seven days a week.

Entry is £5 for adults and concessions are available, and it also boasts a well-stocked shop.

Photo of Glenkinchie Distillery, Scotland by Dogs New Clothes

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1. Super Lamb Banana

This wacky, yellow half-lamb, yes, half-banana appeared outside the Baltic Fleet Public House in 1998. It was designed by Japanese artist Taro Chiero in an apparent link between Liverpool’s traditional banana and lamb imports and the dangers of genetically modified food. It has been through a range of guises, from Friesian cow banana – following modification from vandals – to a pink lamb banana after charity sponsorship. Check out the website to take home your very own mini version of the super lamb banana, which changes location around the city.

2. Emin’s missing bird

Controversial modern artist Tracy Emin is perhaps best known for her exhibition of a patchwork tent detailing all the people she slept with, but her work in Liverpool hit the headlines again in 2008 – this time for going missing. Someone had nabbed the miniature bronze bird sat on top of a pole, created by the artist for Upper Duke Street. The Liverpool Echo reported Emin as retorting “This is taking the p***. Don’t bite the hand that feeds” in response to the repeated theft of the bird from the grounds of the Anglican cathedral.

3. Offerings to Eleanor Rigby

Passers-by can see offerings of beer, flowers and even sick in the bowl cradled by a statue dedicated to Eleanor Rigby on Button Street. The character was made famous by a song by the Liverpool lads, the Beatles. Artist Tommy Steele took a line from the lyrics when he dedicated the statue sat alone on a bench to ‘all the lonely people’. Some people take the structure as a symbol of devotion, while others treat the effigy less kindly.

4. Yellow Submarine alights

The artwork modelled on the Beatles song on the Revolver album now lies at Liverpool’s John Lennon Airport to welcome visitors into the city. The yellow structure with an eye on the blow-hole was reportedly designed by Cammell Laird’s shipbuilders for an exhibition in the city in the 1980s. It is one of many Beatles statues located round Liverpool. Others include John Lennon on Mathew Street, which was historically frequented by the Fab Four.

5. Yoko Ono’s skyladders

One art installation that will probably not be missed is Yoko Ono’s in the ruined grounds of St Luke’s Church off Hardman Street. To celebrate Liverpool’s year as European City of Culture 2008, Yoko invited residents to set up step ladders, which did not quite become the “forest” she intended. The Skyladders project was designed in memory of her late husband John Lennon whom, she said, “immediately connected with the idea” when she first exhibited the project years ago.

Photo of Super Lamb Banana Sculpture in Liverpool, UK by Steve Montgomery