Top 10 Must Visit Places in England (UK) During Your First Visit

Although only a relatively small island, the UK is steeped in history and culture and is awash with both natural and man-made beauty. There are innumerable things to see and do. But as there is too much to take in all at once, here are the top 10 places you should try and visit on your first trip there.

London
There are so many sights to see in Britain’s capital city that they could fill a top 10, several times over, all on their own. So try to make sure that a visit to London crams in as much of these sights as possible, from Tower Bridge to the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye to Buckingham Palace. There is so much to do and see in London that you may find you spend most of your time there, but it will be time well spent.

Stonehenge
One of the UK’s great mysteries, there is much rumour and speculation surrounding exactly why Stonehenge was built and what it actually is. Having stood for over 5,000 years, this historic site is set against the picturesque Wiltshire hills and simply has to be experienced.

Portmeirion
Built between 1925 and 1975 on the North Wales Coast, Portmeirion is a place like no other and has to be seen to be believed. In among its striking architecture are hotels, restaurants and tea shops that make this a most peaceful retreat.

Liverpool Waterfront
One of the world’s most recognisable waterfronts, this is another of the UK’s World Heritage Sites and the Albert Dock has the country’s largest collection of Grade I listed buildings. There is something for everyone here as this stretch of coastline is also home to museums, art galleries, shops and restaurants.

The Giant’s Causeway
Another World Heritage Site, this series of around 40,000 interlinked basalt lines formed from volcanic eruptions lines this part of the Northern Ireland coast and is one of the most striking natural formations in the world.

Chatsworth House
Located in Derbyshire, this has been a residence of the Dukes and Duchesses of Devonshire since 1549 and its vast collection of artworks and stunning gardens make it one of the UK’s most amazing country residences.

Lake Windermere
The UK’s largest natural lake stretches for around two miles and is part of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria. There is an abundance of beautiful scenery and wildlife here and the speed restrictions on the lake make it perfect for canoeing holidays.

Hadrian’s Wall
This World Heritage Site runs for 150 miles between South Shields and Ravenglass on the Cumbrian coast and is the site of some amazingly well-preserved forts. The wall itself is still visible at certain points. This also makes for a great cycle route.

Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital city is steeped in history and a trip along the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle perfectly illustrates this. It is also worth taking in one of the city’s many ‘ghost tours’ to learn about the often bloody history of this great city.

Scottish Highlands
The far north of Scotland has some of the best landscapes and scenery you could ever wish to see. You can visit the remote islands of the Inner and Outer Hebrides or stay on the mainland and visit the small fishing villages or the excellent beaches which are perfect for anyone interested in sea canoeing holidays.

Author’s bio: James William is an experienced writer, primarily focusing on travelogues and adventure trip tales. He has travelled to different places across the globe and takes interest in sharing his experience with the readers.