The territory of Great Britain includes such countries as England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland. Each of these areas has many historic and beautiful sites that are enjoyed by travelers and locals alike. Let’s take a closer look at the main attractions of Britain and interesting places in England.
Top 12 British sights
England is the most frequently visited country among travelers. There are a large number of architectural buildings, castles and museums. The main attractions in England are Buckingham Palace, Beech Ben, the British Museum, London’s Madame Tussauds Museum, the Sherlock Holmes Museum and many others.
Madame Tussauds Museum in London
London is the largest city in England. Its main asset is the Madame Tussauds Museum of Wax Figures. Even at the age of 16, she created her first sculpture – Voltaire. For a long time Maria traveled around the country with her work, and only in 1835 she moved to London. In the early 20th century, the museum was subjected to a major fire and some of the sculptures were lost, but over time it was possible to recreate the lost sculptures. The horror cabinet was a big part of his fame. Until now, the museum is still functioning, using new manufacturing techniques.
Sherlock Holmes Museum
It has been open since 1990 and has become one of the major attractions in England. It is a four-storey building. Once inside, you go back many years and find yourself in exact replicas of real rooms with the same furnishings. On the first floor there is a store where you can buy souvenirs and a ticket office where they sell tickets for the tour. A policeman dressed in 19th-century clothing is on duty near the entrance. On the second floor is the bedroom and living room, as well as Dr. Watson’s room. The fourth floor is represented by wax figures from the works of Arthur Conan Doyle.
The exact same interior and atmosphere of the house amazes and delights visitors to the museum.
Palace of Westminster
It is a unique landmark in Great Britain. The palace has more than 1,000 rooms and about 100 staircases. The interior of the building is majestic and luxurious. In 1834 there was a fire and almost the entire palace was destroyed, but managed to protect from fire the oldest part of the building – Westminster Hall, which strikes its brilliance to this day. After the fire it was decided to urgently rebuild the palace, which now houses the parliament.
Big Ben
The Clock Tower is an integral part of the Court of Westminster and is a trademark of the country. Many people call it Big Ben, but it is actually the name given to one of the five bells. The building was erected in 1859. The tower is about 100 meters high. It can only be climbed by a spiral staircase by the caretakers.
The chime can be heard at a distance of eight kilometers. The tower is especially beautiful at night when the clock on the four sides is illuminated.
Snowdonia National Park
It is located in Wales and is the most famous attraction in Great Britain. It is located in the north of the country. It is named after Mount Snowdon, which rises above Wales. Here is the highest mountain, a large lake and several picturesque villages. Every year the number of tourists who visit the most famous attraction in Britain is almost 6 million people.
Anyone can visit the area, climb the mountain without climbing skills. Almost the entire area of the park is occupied by a forest of deciduous plants. They are rare and carefully guarded. It is also home to a large number of animals and unique birds.
Stonehenge
Stonehenge is a striking landmark of antiquity. The diameter of the area is about 100 meters. The structure is enclosed by a moat. In the center is an altar, surrounded by five pairs of stones. At the exit from the grounds is the “Heel Stone” and the trail that leads to the Avon River. Scientists have not yet figured out the purpose of such a structure, nor have they figured out the methods of transporting the stones to their destination.
Buckingham Palace
It is now the current residence of the Queen of England. The area is 20 hectares and includes a police station, a hospital, a swimming pool, and post offices. There are 700 employees serving the queen. In August and September a large number of tourists visit the palace. Here you can see the masterpieces of painting, rare porcelain and exquisite items belonging to the queen.
Of particular interest to travelers are the royal working stables, which can be visited all year round. There is also a store in the palace, which presents exact copies of the queen’s belongings. They can be purchased as a souvenir.
Rochester Castle
The castle is considered a treasure of England and was built in the 11th century. The structure was designed to protect the city from invaders and enemies. On the outside it is a square with a side of 21 meters. There is an additional extension on the side. The entrance to the castle is on the level of the second floor, there are additional stairs. There is a large central hall on the third floor. The fourth floor is occupied by a huge gallery.
Millennium Bridge
The list of attractions in England is completed by the very famous Millennium Bridge. It offers an extraordinary view of St. Peter’s Cathedral, the Shakespeare Theater, the Tate Museum, and you can also see Tower Bridge.
Carnarvon Castle
The castle has polygonal columns, and one of the largest in the western part of the structure. The design of the building carries centuries of history. It is a major and significant landmark in Great Britain. The building has two entrances (north and southwest). The upper part was to contain the king’s possessions, the lower part the utility rooms and the kitchen.
The walls of the structure are composed of multicolored stripes, which distinguishes it from other castles. A gate was also constructed through which visitors could enter by moving along the River St.
National Zoo in London
It is considered one of the largest in the world. It was founded in the 19th century and is an architectural monument of England. There are rare species of animals, reptiles and insects. There are now about 17,000 individuals living there. The huge zoo has a rich history and is a scientific center that everyone can visit. It exists thanks to donations from organizations and individuals. The government does not participate in its financing.
The zoo has three halls with aquariums, a pavilion with reptiles and a zoo for children. Adults and kids can admire its beauty and have a great time.
Bridge over the Tyne (Gateshead)
This unusual structure connects the two cities of Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead. “The Millennium Bridge consists of two arcs that can rotate 40 degrees. One arc can be used by pedestrians or cyclists, the other is for cars. The bridge begins to move when a ship cannot pass under it. It is an unforgettable spectacle, and draws crowds to admire the process itself.
Video overview of British sights
Not sure what to see in England? This country is rich in unique natural and historical sites. Before your trip, you need to think carefully and look at all the interesting places in the UK, so that your vacation will be unforgettable.
