Feb 22, 2013

6 Unmissable Sights, Sounds, and Tastes in the UK

Guest / -SP, England, Europe Travel, Travel Abroad / 1 Comment

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With so much to see, do and taste in the UK, planning a holiday here can quickly become quite daunting.  Take the stress out of planning your next break by following our guide to the six unmissable attractions which can all be easily achieved in as little as a week long holiday.  Perfect!

London’s Skyline

If this is your first trip to the UK, you simply have to start in the capital.  Take a walk along the buzzing South Bank where you’ll see everything from Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Tower Bridge along the River Thames.  Take a trip on the London Eye for spectacular views across the city; just choose a clear day for it!

Catch a match

The UK is the spiritual home of football so while you’re there, be sure to watch a match.  From Manchester United’s Theatre of Dreams to Ashton Gate in Bristol, there are numerous opportunities to cheer on your new local team.  Try the National Football Museum in Manchester for a thrilling, interactive history to the beautiful game and before you know it, you’ll be hooked.  Best of all, it’s totally free!

Take Tea

If the British are known for one thing the world over, it’s afternoon tea so when in Rome, as they say!  Aside from the fancy hotels offering three tiered cake stands bursting with miniature sandwiches and cakes, Bettys tearooms in York is a must.  Travel back in time with a freshly brewed pot of tea served in a china cup for a very English afternoon.  Delicious!

Climb a Mountain

While you won’t need an ice axe to climb in the UK, you can guarantee breathtaking views not to mention a challenging workout.  Take on one of the UK’s three peaks-Mount Snowdon in Wales, Scafell Pike in the Lake District and Ben Nevis in Scotland-if you’re after a full day’s walking or Arthur’s Seat in the heart of historic Edinburgh for a more leisurely stroll.  No matter which mountain you choose, Sykes Holiday Cottages have great self-catering accommodation across the UK, perfect for your next trip.

Visit Alnwick Castle

Northumberland’s stunning Alnwick Castle isn’t just a must see for Harry Potter fans but also for those with an interest in history.  The wizardly movies were filmed here and you can take part in a Potter-themed tour or even take broomstick lessons.  The grand castle is also home to a staggering art collection and beautiful gardens for those who prefer to focus on fact rather than fiction.

Go Surfing

If you’re a water baby, you don’t have to travel to warmer climes for great watersports.  Cornwall’s Newquay offers world-class surfing conditions all year round thanks to a mild climate and great Atlantic swell.  Newbies will find great instructors in Cornwall so it’s the ideal place to don a wetsuit for the first time and the sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing afterwards!