When considering a trip to the United Kingdom, England is the obvious choice, for culture and history alike. When you desire something a little different that the most popular Buckingham Palace or Big Ben, we offer this list of some other popular European destinations.
London England boasts the British Museum. This museum houses everything from Egyptian mummies to Greek vases. There are specific seasons where you can physically handle some of the museums antiquities. There is no shortage of activities for children, as well as guided tours, that help with the history contained inside the museum.
Deangate in York is the home of York Minster, one of the United Kingdom’s most beautiful medieval cathedrals. You can also visit the underground chambers, as well as, high into the tower, that overlooks York. This cathedral was built somewhere between 1200 and the 1470s and has the architecture to prove it.
The next destination of popular spots in England is the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter. Located in Birmingham and is one of the oldest jewelry factories in Britain. This museum shows the history of Britain’s Jewelry industry in the 1800s. You will be able to see and learn about some of the original tools that were used in this trade. During your tour of the museum, you will witness some jewelry in the making.
Liverpool is the home of the Beatles Story exhibit, in Merseyside. Including wax figures of the Beatles members, as well as memorabilia of the group. Even if you were not a fan of the group themselves, you will learn all about the 1960s and 1970s music industry in England, and about one of the biggest music icons in English history.
Avon and the Roman Baths are a must see when in England. If you have ever wanted or enjoyed the Roman culture, this is a definite must. The baths are still in amazing shape, and offer audio and guided tours, that take you to the edge of the baths. You will learn how the baths were built, and about their strange drainage system.
When in Europe be sure to visit the ship museums in Bristol. The Brunel’s SS Great Britain, which sits along side of the Cutty Sark. Both of these vessels are now museums, that house varies paintings and ceramic wares. You can tour sections of the ship and the dry docks. Unfortunately, in 2007 after a severe fire, the Cutty Sark is now being restored, and is planned to open again in 2012.
While in Brighton, East Sussex, be sure to make the time to visit the Royal Pavilion. Built to resemble the Taj Mahal with more dome structures. Take the tours that are offered to see the luxurious rooms and the spectacular chandelier that lights the entry.
For the ultimate family vacation, visit the Paultons Family Theme Park in Southampton. This theme park is generally geared for children. Among slower, less jarring, roller coasters and the Peppa Pig World. This will grant hours of fun for the family, young and old alike.
