The UK has long been a favorite of American travelers – offering the Unique chance to immerse yourself in a history that stretches back thousands of years.
A population of 70 million people packed into a Country smaller than the state of Oregon creates a dynamic atmosphere, where charming country estates meet vibrant cities, cultures blend to create amazing food – yes, don’t believe the stereotypes – and spectacular views offer some of the finest scenery in the world.
Here are five reasons why you should visit the UK on your next vacation.
Amazing History
Over two thousand years of history has dramatically changed the landscape and architecture of Britain. The rugged coasts of Cornwall house the relics of Arthurian legend. Wales is topped with imposing castles and bracing landscapes. London’s ornate palaces dot its many parks.
Winchester, York and Edinburgh are among many cities built along beautifully preserved medieval street plans – with the latter’s famous new and old towns forming a UNESCO world heritage site.
Spectacular Views
This long history means that Britain is crisscrossed with footpaths and trails – always open and permissive for public use.
Scotland – regularly voted as the world’s most beautiful country – offers stunning peaks, remote islands and alluring forests. Wales houses the spectacular national park of Snowdonia - with the unique chance to ascend a mountain by train.
Cornwall’s rugged cliffs and sandy beaches create some of the world’s best surf. The Lake District, peppered with imposing mountains, offers kayaking and water sports on its blue waters. Northern Ireland’s scenic north coast houses the Giant’s Causeway – a unique geological landmark.
Vibrant Cities
London is widely known as a vibrant, multicultural epicenter – but across the country you’ll find exciting cities all their own.
Liverpool, home of the Beatles, has a unique culture unlike anywhere else in the UK – its Anfield soccer stadium is said to have one of the greatest atmospheres of any sporting venue in the world.
Newcastle, Manchester and Belfast have fantastic nightlife, and a dynamic music scene across their lively pubs, clubs and bars.
Country Splendour
Britain’s National Trust preserves many country estates, gardens, even whole villages in their traditional glory.
There are the sleepy, gold colored cottages of the Cotswolds, the scenic estates of the Scottish
highlands, and the beautiful fishing villages of Wales and the south west.
You’ll find many a warm hearth, and can relax at luxurious golf resorts and spas.
Fantastic Food and Drink
It’s not just beans on toast and jellied eels. British cuisine blends the different tastes of the many cultures that have traveled to these isles through their history.
London has its 69 Michelin starred restaurants – but a litany of historic inns throughout the country offer traditional, hearty fare, with savory pastries and indulgent desserts like sticky toffee pudding and treacle tart, to be washed down with ruby colored ales, moreish hard ciders, fragrant gins and fine Scottish whiskey.
From spicy Caribbean delights and satisfyingly savory kosher delis, to the many curry houses of Birmingham, Glasgow and London’s Brick Lane, offering silky variations on north Indian cuisine. And the country’s rugged west completes the palate with satiating, freshly caught seafood.
