51. Historic London Pub tour

Take the guided tour and visit some of London’s most famous pubs. The tour is only 2 miles but covers some of the ancient streets, filled with history. You will stop along the way for a pint or two- or three!

The tour ends near the Strand and Covent Garden, which is very close to shops and restaurants in the West End.

You will be able to discover hidden gems on this an liquid history tour through cobblestoned streets of the city.

52. Lake Windemere by boat

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You can start this tour in either Ambleside, Bowness, Brockhole, or Lakeside Pier. Most cruises last between 45 minutes to 3 hours, so the choice is yours.

The scenery is spectacular, with mountains and secluded bays, and many small wooded islands.

Plan to spend at least a day in the Lake District, although if you have time, then stay for longer as there is plenty to see in this beautiful part of the UK.

53. Angel of the North.

This enormous sculpture is found in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear. It stands 66 feet tall with wings measuring 177 feet across.

You may notice that the wings are not standing straight sideways, but at an angle of 3.5 degrees. This is because the sculptor, Antony Gormley, wanted to give us the ‘sense of embrace’.

You can walk around the base of the sculpture and take as many pictures as you like, before heading off to explore other areas.

54. Blackpool illuminations

The annual festival of lights is switched on for sixty-six days, from late August until early November. You can check out the display from Starr Gate to Bispham at the opposite end of the promenade.

The display is also known as the ‘greatest free light show on earth’/ There are plenty of cafes and bars along the route, so you can stop for a snack at any time you like.

Plan to spend a night there, and remember that you may have to book accommodation during school holidays, when Blackpool gets very popular.

55. Ferry across the Mersey

This is probably one of the most famous images when you think of Liverpool. From the ferry, you will be able to see the Liverpool skyline.

The ferry ride takes about 50 minutes and leaves from Pier Head.

You may be able to take the newly ‘dazzled’ ferry, which recently received a makeover by Sir Peter Blake, the artist behind the cover of Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Heart’s Club Band. It is now a stunning psychedelic design!

Although the trip takes less than an hour, try to spend some time along the waterfront and absorb the atmosphere.

56. Star gaze on the Isle of Man

Because of the lack of pollution there, the skies are crystal clear and perfect for star gazing, in fact this is one of the best places in the UK to do this. On a clear night, you should be able to see Orion Nebula or the Milky Way.

The amazing Aurora Borealis also shows up on many nights, so come prepared to take lots of pictures, and bring your binoculars.

Aim to stay at least one night, to double your chances for seeing the night skies, so book in advance for a bed and breakfast.

57. Fish and chips in Whitby

Whitby is the fishing port that inspired Bram Stoker to create Dracula, and it is filled with quaint tea shops along the cobbled streets.

The town is filled with ’foodie’ attractions such as fish and chips, and whole tail scampi in breadcrumbs. It is very popular with not only tourists, but pensioners, who arrive in buses. So instead of eating your fish and chips in the cafes, head down to the quayside and enjoy the view while tasting some of the freshest fish in the UK.

There are a good selection of fish and chip shops where you can buy lunch.

Remember that you are looking out at the North Sea and it can be cold, so take a jacket, even in summer.

Plan to spend a day in the picturesque town, and explore it after your lunch.

58. Visit Whitstable

This is a favourite haunt of Londoners at the weekend, coming in droves to see art galleries, delicatessens, and the many small boutique shops. ‘Pink Flamingo’ is famous for their retro style dresses, while ‘Mosaic’ will blow your mind with their handmade jewellery.

Grab a bag of oysters for lunch at the fish market at the harbour, and ad a bottle of bubbly, and you have a perfect meal on the beach.

Have a pint in ‘The Old Neptune’ which is one of the very few beachside pubs in the UK.

Take a day to explore the town, have a bite of lunch, and then watch the sunset in the evening.

59. Tate museum

The Tate Museum is actually comprised of four buildings, Tate Britain, in London (also known as the Tate Gallery), Tate Liverpool, Tate St. Ives and Tate Modern, in London.

Tate Britain has a collection of art from 1500 to the present day.
Tate Liverpool has similar collections, although this is smaller.
Tate St. Ives has modern and contemporary art from local artists.
Tate Modern houses a collection of British and International art from 1900 to present day.

Whichever one of these museums you choose to visit, you should plan on spending a whole day there. All of them have cafes where you can grab a bite to eat at lunch.

60. Kew gardens

Kew Gardens has the largest and most diverse collection of plants in the world, growing in the open, as well as in glasshouses and nurseries.
There is a treetop walkway, which gives you a birds-eye view of the gardens. Look out for the Madagascan Baobab as well as many carnivorous and rare plants.

From here you can visit Kew Palace and see the amazing royal kitchen garden, and the nature reserve where the royal family often spend time.

Allow yourself a full day to explore the gardens and all the amazing plant life.

61. Visit Chester

Chester is sometimes referred to as the ‘Black and White City’ and you will see why as you explore it. It is not too far the border with Wales. Look for the three-faced clock at the bus terminal, with the black face towards Wales – ask a local to tell you why this is so!

The city is more than 2,000 years old and is filled with interesting facts and things to see. Take the walking tour if possible and you will learn about the day a naked lady was found in the centre, as well as being able to hear the town crier, and explore the roman ruins.

There are many events throughout the year so be sure to check what’s on so as not to miss anything.

Take your lunch down to the banks of the River Dee and watch the boats there, before getting a look inside the magnificent cathedral – may be off limits when weddings are taking place.

Allow yourself a full day here, although two will be better.

62. Churchill War Rooms

These room are a part of the Imperial War Museum, and they are located under the Treasury building in the Whitehall area. The rooms became operational in 1938 and remained in operation throughout the Second World War.

The rooms have been preserved because of the historic value and are now open to the public.

Allow yourself 2 hours to see them.

63. See the Isle of Wight

If you enjoy peace and natural beauty, then make sure you head over to the Isle of Wight. Bear in mind, though, that in summer the festival draws people from everywhere and the island is very crowded.

The island is very popular for sailing and it’s beautiful resorts. You can also visit the local donkey sanctuary, where donkeys are treated and taken care of.

Allow at least a day, perhaps stay overnight in one of the many bed and breakfast places.

64. Norfolk

Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens is where you will be able to see a collection of rare Asian animals such as tigers, leopards, and reptiles. You can take the tiger walk which will give you a birds-eye view of the tigers. Make sure you take your camera as you will not often get pictures of these beautiful creatures.

Allow yourself a day to do the centre. There are also many other things to do close by such as hiring rowing boats, or taking a canoe out at Martham, so it is a good idea to spend another day in the area.

65. Robin Hood’s Water Park

This is a fun filled theme park, with everything centred around Robin Hood and his band of merry men!
It’s a great family attraction with rides to suit all ages. It is the largest outdoor water park in the UK. There are five ‘Fast and Furious’ slides for the more adventurous people!

You will find it not too far from Sherwood Forest – also worth a visit.

Plan to spend a day here, and possibly stay overnight to recover from the excitement!

65. Visit Nottingham’s lace making district

After you have viewed the lace – and perhaps bought a piece or two – stop for lunch in one of the many bars and restaurants right next to the market.

66. Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle is in Maidstone, Kent and is known as one of the prettiest castles in the world.
There are speedy zip-lines for the brave and wobbly bridges for the younger kids. You can swing through the trees like Tarzan, while viewing the castle from a vantage point.

This is a great day out for everyone, no matter what the age. Don’t forget to take your camera.

Allow about 3 hours to see and do here, as you – and the kids – will more than likely be exhausted after that!

67. Turner Contemporary, in Margate

See the Turner art gallery built on the site of JMW Turner’s home. The gallery, which is by far the biggest exhibition in the South East, houses exhibitions and events, along with learning opportunities.

Explore the metro bars and shops along the way, and note the trappings of the traditional English seaside resort.

The museum often has exhibitions which you can find out about either by calling or looking online.

Margate Old Town has many small galleries of art from local and regional artists.

Allow yourself a day to see not only the Turner gallery, but also to check out local art.

68. St Paul’s Cathedral

You may remember that Prince Charles and Princess Diana were married here. St. Pauls has seen many famous people pass through its doors, notably the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill.

You will be able to see history dating back 1,200 years as you climb the 237 steps to the top of the Dome. Pass the Whispering Gallery, where your whisper can be heard 100 feet away – so be careful what you say!

Allow a half day to look at the cathedral.

69. Chester Zoo

Here you will find the largest Orangutan exhibit in Europe, along with the amazing butterfly house.

The zoo is home to 11,000 animals, including endangered species. The gardens are fantastic with some 110 acres to explore.

For the kids, there is a mini golf area, as well as a face painting artist at hand
Allow a full day here, there are cafes, where you can get a bite to eat during the day.

70. Drayton Manor Theme Park

This is the perfect theme park for families with 5 roller coasters, 7 themed lands, water rides and thrill rides, and many more things for everyone to do. It is set on 280 acres, so make sure you have walking shoes on!

The park is on the outskirts of Birmingham, and will remind you of an old-fashioned park.
Spend a full day here, you will find plenty to do, and many places where you can eat and drink.

71. Plymouth Hoe

You may also hear this called ‘The Hoe’. It is the heart of Plymouth and encompasses a large area overlooking the sea. The views of Plymouth Sound and Drake’s Island are spectacular, and you can see right across to Mount Edgcumbe in Cornwall. The Hoe is considered to be one of the most perfect natural harbours in the world.

On the lawns is the iconic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse. It was here that Sir Francis Drake – after finishing his game of bowls – headed out to conquer the Spanish Armada.

Wear a pair of walking shoes as there is plenty to explore in that area, and a good, long walk along the seafront.

Make sure you take your camera when you visit the Hoe as the views are fantastic!

Allow yourself a day to see the area, although the Hoe will not take much more than an hour. Try and time your trip so you can grab some fish and chips for lunch, and you will not be disappointed!

72. Covent Garden

You will find Covent Garden between Charing Cross Road and Drury Lane. It used to be a huge fruit and vegetable market but now it has been revamped to a popular shopping site.

Long Acre road divides the area into north and south, the north is full of independent shops around Neal’s Yard, while the south often has street performers. It is in the south area that you will find historical buildings, and entertainment centres.

You will need at least a morning to see the area, although you might like to stop somewhere for a bite to eat. There are plenty of small cafes, and also restaurants for this.

73. Soho

Soho is a district rather than one spot, and it is close to Chinatown. Soho is full of the best bars and restaurants, clubs, and shops.

If you want a really good night out in a vibrant atmosphere, then this is the place to head for!
Soho was home to some notable figures such as Mozart, Karl Marx and The Sex Pistols, in fact the area is well known for the history and culture scene there.

Plan to spend a day exploring, and if possible, check out a bar or two in the evening.

74. Oxford street

Oxford Street runs from Marble Arch to Tottenham Court Road and is Europe’s busiest shopping street. There are over 300 shops in the street and traffic is restricted to taxis and buses.

Turning on the Christmas lights is a huge event every year, and very well attended.

There are a number of listed buildings along the street, and restaurants, cafes and bars are dotted up and down.

Plan on spending a day in the area, although this may change depending on how much shopping you plan to do!

75. London Zoo

The zoo is next to regent’s Park, and houses over 12,000 animals of all sorts. Lions, tigers, gorillas, over 100 penguins – there are plenty of animals to see,

You can watch the daily feedings of the tigers, llamas, and penguins, and enjoy the butterflies in the butterfly house.

The lion enclosure is what most people head for, although there is plenty to see and do along the way.

76. The Shambles, York

The Shambles is a street in the city of York, and you will find many small, iconic boutiques in the cobblestoned street and the small side streets.

The Shambles has been nominated as ‘the most picturesque street in Britain’, and you may well agree with this. It is a lovely place to wander, look at shop fronts, do a little shopping, and generally enjoy the wonderful architecture.

Walking around the Shambles is an unforgettable experience!

Plan on spending a day there, because after you have explored the street, you could head to the cathedral.

77. Ightham Mote

You pronounce this as ‘item mote’, and it is a medieval manor house, described as the most complete small manor house in the country’. It is a grade I listed building, with some parts being listed as ‘ancient monuments’.

The house is surrounded by water and sits on its own small island, and is almost 700 years old.

Be prepared to spend some time wandering through the gardens, which are amazing. The kitchen garden is full of vegetables of the season, and used to cater for the restaurant.

You will be able to wander through the gardens, which range from formal laws and flower beds, to secret glades. The bluebell woodland is magnificent when the flowers are in season.

Be prepared to spend a half day here, although longer if you visit the restaurant and gift shop.

78. American Air Museum, Duxford

This is Britain’s largest aviation museum, and houses almost 200 aircraft, military vehicles and minor navy vessels. It is set over seven exhibition halls.

The hangars which are in use, are the original ones used during the Battle of Britain, and most have listed building status.

It is an active airfield and still used by civilian companies. If you check online you will be able to find out when they put on air shows. These are very popular and you must arrive early to get a parking space, if you come by car.

You will need to spend a full day here, in order to see all there is to see. There is a café where you can grab a bite to eat.

79. Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker

You will find the bunker located on the outskirts of Hack Green, Cheshire. It used to be government-owned, although now it is open to the public.

The bunker was declassified in 1993. An interesting fact is that the bunker – which is 35,000 square foot – would have, if nuclear war had happened, been the centre of Regional Government.

The bunker was constructed in the 1950’s as a part of the secret radar network, and was code named ‘Rotor’.

Plan to spend a half day checking it out.

80. Hampton Court Palace

The building was constructed in 1515 for Cardinal Wolsey, although in 1529 he fell from favour and King Henry VIII claimed the palace for himself. It is one of only two palaces which remain, which belonged to Henry VIII.

Apart from the palace interior, you can also see the maze, the historic tennis court and the enormous grape vine, which in 2005 was the largest in the world.

The palace is also the site of the well-known Hampton Court Palace Flower Show and the Festival.

Plan on spending a half day checking out the palace and the gardens, although if you plan to see the flower show, you will need a full day.

81. Trafalgar Square

The name commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar which took place on 21st November 1805, off the coast of Cape Trafalgar, Spain. It has been a landmark since then, and used to house the King’s Mews.
Nelson’s Column which is 169-foot tall is at the centre and you will notice that it is guarded by four lions.
Many community gatherings have taken place in that area, such as anti-war protests, and Bloody Sunday.
Every year a Christmas tree donated by Norway is erected there twelve days before Christmas, and you will find that it is one place where New Year’s Eve celebrations are very noisy!
Watch out for advertisements of things to see and do all around the area.

An interesting fact is that the area used to be inundated with feral pigeons, until they were removed.

You will need a half day to see the square and monuments, and also to check out the interesting
architecture in the area, although you may want to stay longer and explore nearby shops and cafes.

82. The Roman Baths

You will find these in the city of Bath. The baths are below street level and have four main areas, namely the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple, Roman Bath House, and the Museum.
The ‘Grand Pump Room’ is visited by over one million tourists every year! The baths have been referred to as one of the wonders of the West Country.
You are not allowed to get into the water, although cameras are allowed inside the buildings.
Plan on spending a half day at the baths, and then some time exploring the city.

83. Piccadilly Circus

This is actually a street junction, which was built in 1819 to connect regent Street and Piccadilly.
From Piccadilly Circus, you will be able to get to the Haymarket, Coventry Street and Glasshouse Street. It is very close to major shopping centres in the west end.
What makes this stand out is the neon signs on the corner building on the north side, the memorial fountain, and the statue. The statue is mistakenly believed to be Eros.
Depending on how much shopping you want to do, you should spend a half day at least in the area.

84. Legoland

This is a theme park for kids young and old! It opened in 1996 and consists of themed rides, models and of course, building centres, where you can build any structure your imagination allows!
With 2.1 million visitors a year, the park is the most visited in the UK, and the 10th most visited in Europe.
You should plan to spend the day there, although the kids may want to stay the night! There are places where you can get food and drinks.

85. Alton Towers

This is located in the village of Alton, in Staffordshire, and includes a water-park, and hotel complex. It is the largest amusement park in the UK.
There are six rides which you must not miss! Nemesis, Oblivion, Rita, The Smiler, Galactica, and Thirteen.
The waterpark was added in 2003 and other facilities include crazy golf and a high ropes course.
Although the park closes for some months of the year, the hotels are still open.
Plan on spending the whole day there!

86. The Science Museum

You will find this on Exhibition Road in South Kensington. It is visited by some 3.3 million visitors a year, and has oodles and oodles of things to see and do – especially for the kids.
Best of all – it is completely free! So, you can go back a second time, if you don’t see it all on your first trip.

87. Chygurno, Cornwall

This is a garden which literally hangs over the edge of the cliffs. It was unoccupied for over 20 years and little more than a jungle when it was purchased and re-planted back in 1998. Now it is a maze of steep pathways, steps and terraces covered with a huge selection of plants.

Wear walking shoes as it covers some 3 miles of trails. You will see banana plants and camillias, aloes and proteas, as the climate is perfect for these exotic plants to flourish.

Make sure you spend some time on the beaches as they are among the best in the UK.

There are many trails you can follow, and beaches where you can take a break and enjoy the views.
Note that there are no refreshments anywhere, although you can buy cream teas and snacks in some of the coves. Better still, pack a picnic and spend the day!

88. Cornwall Scenic Railways

There are a number of trips you can take, each one different and all of them unique.

The St Ives Bay Line (St Erth – St Ives)
The train sweeps past the golden sands of Hayle Towans and Carbis Bay, and stops at St. Ives, which is full of unique shops, art galleries and cafes.

The Looe Valley Line (Liskeard – Looe)
Watch out for wading birds like Little Egrets, herons, and oystercatchers. At Looe, be sure to visit a local pub and one or two of the small independent shops for souvenirs.

The Maritime Line (Truro – Falmouth)
The starting point is the cathedral in Truro, with it’s wonderful architecture. Falmouth has beautiful beaches, gardens, and shopping centres. Of interest is the natural harbour.

The Atlantic Coast Line (Par – Newquay)
This trip crosses the wooded Luxulyan Valley, goes over the moors, where you may glimpse the white land of the Cornish China Clay area. Newquay is known as one of the finest beach in Europe.

The Tamar Valley Line (Plymouth – Gunnislake)
The trip takes you over the Calstock viaduct which is at 120 feet above the river. You will pass through rolling grass fields, sleepy villages, and beautiful rivers, before finishing at Gunnislake.

89. Plymouth Gin

The distillery has been in use since 1793 and is also known as Blackfriars Distillery. It is the only distillery in the city.

Folklore says that it is located in what was once a Dominican Order Monastery, although this is disputed with no evidence to show it. The Pilgrim Fathers are also supposed to have stayed there while the Mayflower was being repaired.

It was in fact a merchant’s house around 1500, and by 1605 was used as a goal. In 1689, it was a Congregational meeting house and in 1793 it became the distillery.

You can take tours of the distillery, and get a bite to eat at the bar and bistro on the premises.

Plan on a full day to explore not only the distillery, but also the surrounding area of Plymouth.

90. Barnstable Pannier Market

This is one of Britain’s largest indoor market, where you will find everything you want! It opened some 150 years ago and still sells things from fresh local produce, flowers, crafts, prints and pictures, and much more.

The market gets very busy in the holiday season and you must take care to keep your purse or wallet safe, as pickpockets do show up.

You will find the market open every 2nd Sunday of the month.

Plan to spend a half day walking through the market, then stop at a café for lunch.

91. Weymouth Beach, Dorset

The beach is three miles long and just a short walk from the historic harbour. For the kids, there are Punch and Judy shows and donkey rides. Volleyball championships often take place there, as well as live music and a free summer firework display.

The promenade gets busy in the summer months, but quieter later in the year. From the beach, you can see as far as the Jurassic Coastline.

You will find plenty to see and do along the beach front.

Plan on spending a full day in Weymouth, you will not regret it!

92. Goodwood Festival of Speed

This is the home of racing, and if that is what you like, then this is where you should head! The annual festival takes place in late June or early July, and is very popular. You should buy your tickets early and also arrive early.
Plan to spend the whole day there.

93. Wookey Hole Caves

You will find these caves in the village of Wookey Hole, in Somerset. The River Axe flows through the caves. The temperature inside is a constant 11 degrees.

The first cave dives in Britain were made in these caves by Jack Shepard and Graham Balcombe. While you may not be able to dive there, you can certainly appreciate the natural beauty in them.

The waters of the Axe are used in a hand-made paper mill, which started operations in 1610, and the temperature of the interior makes them perfect for the maturation of Cheddar Cheese.

Of note to look for is the ‘Witch of Wookey Hole’, which is a human shaped stalagmite. Legend says that she was turned into stone by a monk from Glastonbury.

Allow yourself a half day to see the caves.

94. Haynes International Motor Museum

The museum is located at Sparkford, Somerset. There is a magnificent collection of over 400 cars and bikes, along with a collection of other car memorabilia.

There are 15 different exhibitions ranging from the ‘Dawn of Motoring’, to ‘Great
British Marques’, and ‘Ferrari, the Man’, all of which are well laid out and easy to walk through.
Don’t forget to have a look at the ‘American Dream’ where you will see the 1931 Duesenberg, one of only eight built.

The ‘Red Room’ contains red sports cars from all over the world including a 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible and a 1959 Austin Healey Sprite.

There is a very well stocked café where you can have lunch or a snack. To ensure that you have a good look around, you should plan to spend a half day three.

95. Longleat Safari Park

This safari park is located in Wiltshire, and was first opened in 1966. It is in the grounds of Longleat House, a stately home, also open to the public.

The idea of safari parks came from jimmy Chipperfield – former co-director of Chipperfield’s
Circus.

There are over 500 animals in the park and it is a sprawling estate which covers 9,000 acres.

Allow yourself a day to see the safari park, and then perhaps also visit the house.

96. White cliffs of Dover