We investigate cultural sites in Britain that mark the remarkable periods in our history. These sites range from Durham's Castle to the astonishing City of Bath. So why not immerse yourself in one of these sites next time you visit Britain?
“What is there even to see in the UK?” asks my Greek friend who is planning a visit to Britain. Often, Britain’s heritage sites are overlooked for being made of ancient old stones and layers of brick, likely to be covered in moss. Yet modern Britain is one of the most multicultural places in the world, home to 32 of the 1000 World Heritage Sites.
Celebrating its 40th anniversary, World Heritage Day, also known as International Day for Monuments and Sites is honoured every year on 18 April. This day recognises diversity and cultural heritage, commemorating many exceptional sites that belong to all humankind.
1. Durham Castle
Durham Castle was built around the early 12th century with it still retaining the layout of Norman motte and bailey. According to Durham World Heritage, the castle played a significant role in both defending the border with Scotland and controlling local English rebellions.
It is now part of Durham University, with some students residing there every year. It is also open to visitors for guided tours costing £5.00. During the summer, the Castle turns into a hotel allowing tourists to experience the medieval Great Hall. If you are a Harry Potter fan, visit Durham Cathedral where iconic scenes from the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry came to life.
2. City of Bath
Founded by the Romans in the first century, the city of Bath was used as a thermal spa due to the natural hot springs. Its most popular resident was Jane Austen, with a festival taking place every year to commemorate her. This year’s festival takes place from 9 -18 September, with tickets ranging from £13.00. Locations you must explore include the Roman Remains, the Roman Baths, and the Temple of Sulis Minerva.
More famously known the Royal Crescent where the film ‘The Duchess’ featured the Grand Assembly Rooms and the Pulteney Bridge utilised in ‘Les Misérables’. You will be pleased to know that the Roman Baths can still be appreciated for their original use. Considered as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, due to the stunning Georgian architecture and landscape combined, Bath is a must-visit location used as a set in Hollywood films.
3. Westminster Palace & Westminster Abbey
Both the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey lie next to the River Thames in the heart of London. Westminster Palace was built in the Middle Ages and was used as a royal residence, with the parliament having meetings there since 1295. The Palace burnt down in 1512 and was then fully destroyed in 1834. The construction of the new palace started in 1840, taking almost 30 years to complete it.
Nowadays, every Wednesday in the Chamber of Commons, Prime Minister’s Questions take place at 12pm, giving people a chance to see a debate or other events. Available to only UK residents, tickets are free of charge. Visitors from overseas can watch from the gallery if seating is available.
While you are there, make sure to visit Westminster Abbey, where many famous people have either been buried or commemorated including Sir Winston Churchill, William Shakespeare, Martin Luther King, and Isaac Newton. You might also want to watch the change of the guards from Buckingham Palace. As the dates and times vary make sure you check the website.
4. Stonehenge
Celebrating 36 years of World Heritage status, Stonehenge is one of the most popular sites in the United Kingdom. Researchers believe it was built approximately 5,000 years ago and possibly created in a solar year of 365.25 days to help people keep track of days, weeks and months, Stonehenge is a stone circle erected in the early Bronze Age.
Studies have shown that the bluestones (the smaller stones) travelled 240 kilometres to Wiltshire from South Wales in a ship with the average sarsen (dense hard rock) weighing 25 tonnes. To give people an idea of what life was like in the late Neolithic period, there is an exhibition where you can see 15 minutes of someone’s life 5,500 years ago. Tickets range from £12.70 up to £54.90 and the site is open every day apart from Christmas day from 09:30- 17:00.
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