UK - UNITED KINGDOM
ENGLAND, SCOTLAND, NORTH IRELAND, WALES

COUNTRY SNAPSHOT AND INTERESTING FACTS

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland consists of England (including the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man), Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The British landscape can be divided roughly into two kinds of terrain - highland and lowland. The highland area comprises the mountainous regions of Scotland, Northern Ireland, northern England and north Wales. Sandstone and limestone hills, long valleys and basins such as the Wash break up the lowland area on the east coast. Despite its small size, England is a country of much diversity. 
London, the capital, draws increasing numbers of visitors, not only to the well documented attractions of the West End with its theatres, cinemas, shopping streets, restaurants, hotels and nightclubs, but to its historic treasures such as Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace. In addition, London has the vast green spaces of Hampstead Heath, Hyde and Richmond parks; vibrant street markets in Camden, Brick Lane or Portobello Road and many distinctive old pubs. 
A short drive away from London are the elegant southern coast resorts of Eastbourne and Brighton; the beautiful villages of the New Forest; historic religious centres such as Winchester, Canterbury or Salisbury. Cornwall and Devon continue to draw visitors with their rolling hills, beautiful stretches of coastline and picturesque fishing villages. Similarly, the honey-stoned cottages of Moreton-in-Marsh or Bourton-on-the-Water are picture postcard material. Cumbria, more popularly known as 'The Lake District', has the stunning lakes of Windermere or Derwent Water and the cathedral city of Carlisle, close to Hadrian's Wall. 
Scotland is a beautiful and sparsely populated country with rolling lowland, dramatic mountains, lochs and many offshore islands. Edinburgh is the capital and its Castle is not only Scotland's number one tourist attraction but also home to the Scottish Crown Jewels. Its vast profile sits at the head of the Royal Mile which stretches down to the Palace of Holyrood House, the Queen's official residence in Scotland. Edinburgh's cultural life, with its Festival as the highpoint of the year, features much theatre, music and dance unrivalled outside London. The Scottish highlands - the towns of Oban and Fort William and the islands of Skye and Mull - are a stunning wilderness of mountains and moorlands, lochs and rivers. 
Wales is a country of great geographical variation with many long stretches of attractive and often rugged coastline. Cardiff is the principality's capital and principal seaport. The castle, much of which dates back to the Middle Ages, was extensively added to during the 19th century, thus creating a strongly Victorian Gothic result. Much of Wales has a strong non-conformist 'chapel' tradition. Llandudno, Rhyl, Pembrokeshire and Porthmadog are among the better known resort areas. 
Northern Ireland contains some beautiful scenery, from the rugged coastline in the north and northeast to the gentle fruit-growing regions of Armagh. To the southeast of the province, Belfast provides shopping and city entertainment in the shape of theatres, cinema, a wide range of restaurants, the Grand Opera House and all the other attractions of any capital city. 
The rest of the British Isles comprises the Channel Islands of Guernsey, Jersey, Alderney (lying off the coast of Normandy).

Great Britain, the dominant industrial and maritime power of the 19th century, played a leading role in developing parliamentary democracy and in advancing literature and science. At its zenith, the British Empire stretched over one-fourth of the earth's surface. The first half of the 20th century saw the UK's strength seriously depleted in two World Wars. The second half witnessed the dismantling of the Empire and the UK rebuilding itself into a modern and prosperous European nation. As one of five permanent members of the UN Security Council, a founding member of NATO, and of the Commonwealth, the UK pursues a global approach to foreign policy; it currently is weighing the degree of its integration with continental Europe. A member of the EU, it chose to remain outside the Economic and Monetary Union for the time being. Constitutional reform is also a significant issue in the UK. The Scottish Parliament, the National Assembly for Wales, and the Northern Ireland Assembly were established in 1999, but the latter is suspended due to bickering over the peace process.

England - 47 boroughs, 36 counties, 29 London boroughs, 12 cities and boroughs, 10 districts, 12 cities, 3 royal boroughs
: boroughs: Barnsley, Blackburn with Darwen, Blackpool, Bolton, Bournemouth, Bracknell Forest, Brighton and Hove, Bury, Calderdale, Darlington, Doncaster, Dudley, Gateshead, Halton, Hartlepool, Kirklees, Knowsley, Luton, Medway, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, North Tyneside, Oldham, Poole, Reading, Redcar and Cleveland, Rochdale, Rotherham, Sandwell, Sefton, Slough, Solihull, Southend-on-Sea, South Tyneside, St. Helens, Stockport, Stockton-on-Tees, Swindon, Tameside, Thurrock, Torbay, Trafford, Walsall, Warrington, Wigan, Wirral, Wolverhampton
: counties: Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Cheshire, Cornwall, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Devon, Dorset, Durham, East Sussex, Essex, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Herefordshire, Hertfordshire, Isle of Wight, Kent, Lancashire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Northamptonshire, Northumberland, North Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Shropshire, Somerset, Staffordshire, Suffolk, Surrey, Warwickshire, West Sussex, Wiltshire, Worcestershire
: London boroughs: Barking and Dagenham, Barnet, Bexley, Brent, Bromley, Camden, Croydon, Ealing, Enfield, Greenwich, Hackney, Hammersmith and Fulham, Haringey, Harrow, Havering, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Islington, Lambeth, Lewisham, Merton, Newham, Redbridge, Richmond upon Thames, Southwark, Sutton, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest, Wandsworth
: cities and boroughs: Birmingham, Bradford, Coventry, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle upon Tyne, Salford, Sheffield, Sunderland, Wakefield, Westminster
: districts: Bath and North East Somerset, East Riding of Yorkshire, North East Lincolnshire, North Lincolnshire, North Somerset, Rutland, South Gloucestershire, Telford and Wrekin, West Berkshire, Wokingham
: cities: City of Bristol, Derby, City of Kingston upon Hull, Leicester, City of London, Nottingham, Peterborough, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Southampton, Stoke-on-Trent, York
: royal boroughs: Kensington and Chelsea, Kingston upon Thames, Windsor and Maidenhead
: Northern Ireland - 24 districts, 2 cities, 6 counties
: districts: Antrim, Ards, Armagh, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Banbridge, Carrickfergus, Castlereagh, Coleraine, Cookstown, Craigavon, Down, Dungannon, Fermanagh, Larne, Limavady, Lisburn, Magherafelt, Moyle, Newry and Mourne, Newtownabbey, North Down, Omagh, Strabane
: cities: Belfast, Derry
: counties: County Antrim, County Armagh, County Down, County Fermanagh, County Londonderry, County Tyrone
: Scotland - 32 council areas: Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, Angus, Argyll and Bute, The Scottish Borders, Clackmannanshire, Dumfries and Galloway, Dundee City, East Ayrshire, East Dunbartonshire, East Lothian, East Renfrewshire, City of Edinburgh, Falkirk, Fife, Glasgow City, Highland, Inverclyde, Midlothian, Moray, North Ayrshire, North Lanarkshire, Orkney Islands, Perth and Kinross, Renfrewshire, Shetland Islands, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, Stirling, West Dunbartonshire, Eilean Siar (Western Isles), West Lothian;
: Wales - 11 county boroughs, 9 counties, 2 cities and counties
: county boroughs: Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Conwy, Gwynedd, Merthyr Tydfil, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Torfaen, Wrexham
: counties: Isle of Anglesey, Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Monmouthshire, Pembrokeshire, Powys, The Vale of Glamorgan
: cities and counties: Cardiff, Swansea.

England has existed as a unified entity since the 10th century; the union between England and Wales, begun in 1284 with the Statute of Rhuddlan, was not formalized until 1536 with an Act of Union; in another Act of Union in 1707, England and Scotland agreed to permanently join as Great Britain; the legislative union of Great Britain and Ireland was implemented in 1801, with the adoption of the name the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland; the Anglo-Irish treaty of 1921 formalized a partition of Ireland; six northern Irish counties remained part of the United Kingdom as Northern Ireland and the current name of the country, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, was adopted in 1927.

The UK does not celebrate one particular national holiday!

The UK, a leading trading power and financial center, is one of the quartet of trillion dollar economies of Western Europe. Over the past two decades the government has greatly reduced public ownership and contained the growth of social welfare programs. Agriculture is intensive, highly mechanized, and efficient by European standards, producing about 60% of food needs with less than 2% of the labor force. The UK has large coal, natural gas, and oil reserves; primary energy production accounts for 10% of GDP, one of the highest shares of any industrial nation. Services, particularly banking, insurance, and business services, account by far for the largest proportion of GDP while industry continues to decline in importance. GDP growth slipped in 2001-03 as the global downturn, the high value of the pound, and the bursting of the "new economy" bubble hurt manufacturing and exports. Output recovered in 2004, to 3.2% growth. The economy is one of the strongest in Europe; inflation, interest rates, and unemployment remain low. The relatively good economic performance has complicated the BLAIR government's efforts to make a case for Britain to join the European Economic and Monetary Union (EMU). Critics point out that the economy is doing well outside of EMU, and they cite public opinion polls that continue to show a majority of Britons opposed to the euro. Meantime, the government has been speeding up the improvement of education, transport, and health services, at a cost in higher taxes.

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RESORTS AND EXCURSIONS

ENGLAND:

England's eventful history and scenic diversity renders it one of the world's most popular visitor destinations. Although only united as a single nation little over 1000 years ago, its origins go back to the dawn of civilisation, and the variety of interest it offers reflects this.
From prehistoric Stonehenge to 21st-century attractions like London's Millennium Eye, man has contributed much to the appeal of the UK's largest constituent country. This is not restricted to a material legacy, either - England's cultural mix is rich, thanks to the many invaders, settlers and immigrants who have arrived on her shores through the millennia. Countless others around the globe share aspects of customs, language and history with the English themselves.
England's heritage, and therefore her appeal as a destination, is many faceted and deeply rooted, ranging from the literary genius of Shakespeare to 'everyday' pageantry in the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. 
The variety and contrast in the nation's countryside is enormous, too, and is often a source of surprise to many visitors venturing beyond the cities for the first time - as is the vast range of visitor attractions, resorts and sights to just see and enjoy.
This guide comprises five regional sections, with another highlighting seven of the most popular destinations outside London. These are Bath, Cambridge, The Cotswolds, the Lake District, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon and York.
The London section covers the capital, while the Southeast includes counties surrounding it, plus East Anglia. The South and Southwest encompasses the remainder of southern England and two sections cover the rest of the country; the Midlands and the North of England.
The central website for England's tourist boards is official-touristboards.co.uk. Many historic properties and other attractions are administered by the National Trust (tel: (020) 7222 9251; fax: (020) 7222 5097; e-mail: enquiries@thenationaltrust.org.uk; website: thenationaltrust.org.uk) and English Heritage (tel: (0870) 333 1181; fax: (01793) 414 926; e-mail: customers@english-heritage.org.uk; website: english-heritage.org.uk). The Association of National Park Authorities' website (anpa.gov.uk) gives an overview of the 11 National Parks in England (and Wales). 


Top Seven Destinations for England

Outside London, there are seven places known worldwide as prime attractions. Each has a different appeal, and each lies in a different part of the country - cross-references to the appropriate regional section appear in each entry. 


Bath 
(website: visitbath.co.uk). Bath first came to prominence as 'Aquae Sulis' in Roman times. It was a fashionable spa resort nearly 2000 years ago, and rediscovered its ancient glories in the 18th century. Much of its beauty dates from the latter period, fine Georgian sandstone architecture dominating the modern cityscape. The original Roman Baths and Pump Rooms, though, remain open to visitors. Bath's 500-year-old Abbey, built on the site of a Saxon monastery, stands above the Heritage Vaults, which tell the story of 1600 years of Christianity in the area. Architectural highlights include John Wood's Royal Crescent, a remarkable curving Georgian terrace, and Pulteney Bridge, lined with shops and built by Robert Adam in the late 18th century. 


Cambridge 
(website: cambridge.gov.uk/leisure - see also the Southeast and East Anglia section). Home of England's second oldest university, dating from the early 13th century. The individual colleges are the prime attractions of interest in the city, including the oldest, Peterhouse (1284), 16th-century Trinity College, and King's College, whose chapel is regarded as one of Europe's finest late-medieval structures. Other attractions include the Fitzwilliam Museum, the University's Museum of Archaeology and Museum of Zoology, and The Backs, an area of parkland along the River Cam behind the colleges, where punting is a popular activity. The American War Cemetery at Madingley is close to the city, while The Imperial War Museum Duxford aviation sectionlies a short way south of Cambridge. Also near Cambridge is Grantchester, home of World War I poet Rupert Brooke. 


The Cotswolds 
(website: cotswold.gov.uk - see also the South and Southwest and Midlands sections). Covering some 2000 sq km (800 sq miles) primarily in Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire, this area is famed for its picturesque villages and beautiful rolling hills. Highlights among the villages include Broadway, Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden and Moreton-in-Marsh, part of whose attraction is the distinctive honey-coloured local stone used in their construction. Attractions include England's second largest parish church, Tewkesbury Abbey, Jacobean stately home Chastleton House, Chedworth Roman Villa near Cheltenham and imposing Sudeley Castle at Winchcombe. The Cotswold Wildlife Park at Burford, itself another very attractive town, is a popular family outing. 


The Lake District 
(website: lake-district.com - see also the North of England section). England's best known national park occupies a huge swathe of Cumbria, and as its name suggests, there are many large bodies of water. But mountains also feature in this spectacular landscape, among them England's highest, 978 metre (3208 ft) Scafell Pike. Visitors flock to the lakes for walking and other outdoor activities, and to trace the roots of literary figures such as Beatrix Potter, Arthur Ransome and William Wordsworth. Wordsworth's former home, Dove Cottage at Grasmere, is open to visitors - his tomb is in the nearby churchyard. A good starting point is the National Park Visitor Centre at Brockhole, while the World of Beatrix Potter at Bowness-on-Windermere draws people from all over the world. The restored Victorian Steam Yacht Gondola plies Keswick Water offering pleasure trips. 


Oxford 
(website: oxford.gov.uk - see also the South and Southwest section). Known as the 'City of Dreaming Spires', Oxford grew around England's oldest university, whose origins lie in the 11th century. Among 36 colleges in the city centre are Christ Church, which has an excellent Art Gallery, Trinity College and Balliol. 'The Oxford Story' presents a multimedia introduction to the city, with the help of a 'dark ride' through 800 years of history. St. Martin's Church's Carfax Tower affords good views of the cityscape. Other major attractions include the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology, the University Museum, the Museum of Modern Art and the Bodleian Library. There is a wide range of themed guided walking tours available. 


Stratford-upon-Avon 
(website: shakespeare-country.co.uk - see also the Midlands section). Once home to William Shakespeare (1564-1616), Stratford draws visitors in their millions. Attractions associated with the Bard include Shakespeare's Birthplace, Anne Hathaway's Cottage, former home of his wife, Mary Arden's House, home of the playwright's mother, and Holy Trinity Church, where he and his family lie buried. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre, venue for regular RSC performances, stands on the riverbank. Non-Shakespearean diversions in town include Europe's largest Butterfly Farm and the unusual Teddy Bear Museum. 


York 
(website: york-tourism.co.uk - see also the North of England section). Northern England's most visited city contains a plethora of attractions. Foremost is massive York Minster, northern Europe's biggest Gothic cathedral. The City Wall still almost completely surrounds the central area, and The Shambles is one of the world's best preserved medieval streets. York's past as Danish capital of Viking England is explored at the recently refurbished Jorvik Viking Centre, while its more recent status as a railway centre is celebrated at the National Railway Museum. The extensive Castle Museum deals with all aspects of history, including York's associations with chocolate making and Dick Turpin, the notorious 18th-century highwayman. The Yorkshire Museum and City Art Gallery are also major attractions. Historic buildings, such as timbered St William's College and 14th-century Merchant Venturers' Hall, abound. Walking tours and sightseeing boat trips on the River Ouse are available year round. 


London 
London Tourist Board & Convention Bureau (tel: (020) 7932 2000; fax: (020) 7932 0222; website: londontouristboard.com). 
London has no obvious centre, because it grew out of two formerly distinct cities. The City of London was site of the original Roman settlement and later commercial and trading centre. Meanwhile, Westminster became the seat of government after transfer of England's administrative capital from Winchester in the 11th century. Over the centuries, they fused, and engulfed surrounding villages and hamlets. Not until 'Green Belt' legislation of the 1950s did expansion slow.
Today, 33 London boroughs and the City of London cover an area of nearly 385 sq km (148 sq m), but contain a great deal of open parkland, common land and even woods.
A wide range of guided walking, bus and car tours is available in London. For further details contact the Tourist Board. 


Central London 
Roughly bounded by the Underground Circle Line, this area includes the West End, Westminster and the City. The West End contains many of the principal theatres, cinemas, restaurants, cafés, hotels and nightclubs, as well as the best-known shopping areas, like Oxford, Regent and Bond Streets, as well as Covent Garden.
Places of interest include Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square, the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, the buildings of the Horse Guards and Downing Street in Whitehall and the Tate Britain gallery on Millbank. The London Theatre Museum is in Russell Street.
The Royal Opera House, home of both Royal Ballet and Royal Opera, is in Covent Garden. Backstage tours are available. The London Transport Museum is also in this area, whose former fruit and vegetable market is now filled with cafés, pubs, restaurants and shops.
Rock Circus, by Piccadilly Circus, brings the story of rock and pop music to life. The Courtauld Institute paintings are on display at Somerset House (which formerly housed records of births, marriages and deaths).
A short distance to the north is Baker Street, location of Madame Tussauds, and the adjacent London Planetarium. The Sherlock Holmes Museum at 221B Baker Street contains a representation of the fictional detective's apartment.
Further west, in Kensington and Chelsea, are several other famous shopping streets (King's Road, Knightsbridge - site of Harrods - and Portobello Road, with its antiques market). Three of London's largest museums (the Victoria & Albert, Science and Natural History), and the Royal Albert Hall, home of the summer Promenade Concerts, are also here. The British National Army Museum is in Chelsea's Royal Hospital Road.
Central London also contains four parks: Hyde Park (by far the largest), St James' Park, Green Park, and, slightly further north, Regent's Park, location of London Zoo. 


City of London 
The City, with a resident population of less than 5000, is, during the day, the workplace of over 500,000 people. It covers just 259 hectares (one sq mile), hence its nickname of the 'Square Mile'.
Its best-known building is Wren's St Paul's Cathedral, completed in 1711. The Museum of London, near St Paul's tells the story of London from prehistoric times to the present day. On permanent display is the famous Lord Mayor of London's coach, which carries the Lord Mayor through the City streets during the annual Lord Mayor's Show. Close to the City is the Tower of London, built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. Near here is Tower Hill Pageant, which tells London's history in relation to the River Thames. The Bank of England, the Stock Exchange, Lloyd's of London (the world's leading insurance market), Mansion House (official residence of the Lord Mayor), the Central Criminal Court ('The Old Bailey') all stand within the City boundaries.
Dr Johnson's House is close to Fleet Street, former centre of London's newspaper industry. The Monument (to the Great Fire of 1666) and the Royal Exchange are other famous landmarks; a more recent addition is the Barbican Centre, which contains a major arts complex - home to both the Royal Shakespeare Company and the London Symphony Orchestra.
Tower Bridge, although little over 100 years old, is one of the world's most famous such structures, and it is possible to visit the control room containing the machinery for raising and lowering the central section and to walk along the overhead walkway. Moored on the South Bank close to the bridge is World War II battleship HMS Belfast, also open to visitors. 


South of the Thames 
Immediately at the southern end of Westminster Bridge stands the former County Hall, now redeveloped to include the London Aquarium, one of Europe's largest. 
The South Bank Arts Centre, near Waterloo Station, is among the most famous attractions south of the river. It comprises the Royal National Theatre and the Royal Festival Hall as well as MOMI (the Museum of the Moving Image), which traces the story of film and TV technology.
Nearby is The Old Vic, one of London's best known theatres. Southwark Cathedral, near London Bridge, is one of the finest Gothic churches in the city. Also in Southwark is an authentic reconstruction of the famous Shakespeare Globe Theatre, now open to visitors, and the site of the similar Rose Theatre. Also in Southwark is the ghoulish London Dungeon, which dwells upon less pleasant aspects of the capital's history.
The redeveloped Bankside Power Station houses the new Tate Modern gallery. Its collection includes major works by Picasso, Monet and Warhol among many others.
By Bankside Quay, Vinopolis City of Wine recently opened, while another new attraction in the area is the London Eye ferris wheel which, at 137m (450 ft) is the world's tallest, offering good views from its enclosed capsules.
Other attractions near the river include the Imperial War Museum in Lambeth. Portraying the history of 20th-century conflict, its features include the Blitz Experience and a section dedicated to the Holocaust. Lambeth Palace, official home of the Archbishop of Canterbury; the Florence Nightingale Museum, at St Thomas' Hospital; Battersea Park; and the Design Museum are all in the vicinity.
A short tube ride to the east is Greenwich, with the National Maritime Museum, the clipper Cutty Sark, the Royal Naval College and the Royal Observatory, through which runs the Greenwich Meridian, zero degrees longitude. The Queen's House, recently restored to its 17th-century glory, is also in Greenwich, as is the Fan Museum, with its collection of over 2000 fans.
At the Woolwich site of the former Royal Arsenal, a new interactive exhibition, Firepower, has opened in the Museum of the Royal Artillery Regiment. 
Further south London attractions include the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre, the All England Tennis Club and Lawn Tennis Museum at Wimbledon. Dulwich Village has England's oldest art gallery, while Brunel's Engine House at Rotherhithe is site of the world's first underwater tunnel.
Further west are the Botanical Gardens (and palace) at Kew, and Richmond Park, where thousands of deer graze freely. 


West London 
London's two major exhibition centres, Earl's Court and Olympia, stand slightly to the west of the central area. The Boat Show and the Ideal Home Exhibition are among their principal events. Not far away, Whiteley's of Bayswater is an Edwardian shopping centre comprising over 80 shops, restaurants and a multi-screen cinema.
Chiswick House in Chiswick is a superb Italian-style villa. In Fulham, Chelsea Football Club offers tours of its redeveloped Stamford Bridge stadium.
Further west are Syon Park in Brentford (which includes a beautiful 16th-century house) and the London Butterfly House; nearby is the Musical Museum, the Living Steam Museum and the Waterman's Arts Centre.
South of Brentford and Chiswick is Hampton Court Palace, former official royal residence before Buckingham Palace, built by Cardinal Wolsey in the early 16th century and added to by Henry VIII, Charles I, Charles II and William III. Other local houses include the Orleans House Gallery, Ham House and Marble Hill House.
Wembley Arena and Conference Centre is in northwest London, as is the currently unused Wembley Stadium. The late August holiday weekend is marked in the Notting Hill area with the famous Carnival. 


North London 
North London contains fashionable Hampstead, set on a steep hill. Hampstead Heath is one of the largest expanses of parkland in any big city anywhere in the world. Hampstead itself has narrow twisting streets and numerous cafés, restaurants, wine bars and shops. Places to visit include Burgh House, Kenwood House (a Georgian country house, which contains a fine collection of paintings, set in parkland) and Keats' House (the poet's former home, now a museum). To the east, and also on a hill, is Highgate, another attractive former village best known for its cemetery which holds the graves of Karl Marx and George Eliot. In St John's Wood visitors can tour Lords' Cricket Ground. Camden Town is home to a well-known weekend market at Camden Lock - the Jewish Museum is also in this area. Further out of town at Hendon is the Royal Air Force Museum with its collection of historic aircraft. 


East London 
The East End (Whitechapel, Bethnal Green, Mile End and Bow) is in many ways the 'real' London, although this part of the capital suffered badly both during the World War II Blitz - and at the hands of 1960s urban planners. This is where the Cockneys hail from (it is said that to be a true Cockney, one must be born within earshot of the bells in Bow Church).
Cockney traditions linger here: 'Pearly Kings and Queens' make occasional appearances, and there are plenty of 'pie and mash' shops still in evidence.
In the heart of the 'old' East End, the Whitechapel Art Gallery is a source of local pride. Another major attraction is the Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood, a branch of the Victoria and Albert Museum. Middlesex Street, on the City boundary, is location of Petticoat Lane Market. Within walking distance from Petticoat Lane is the lively and trendy Spitalfields Market which has an excellent organic food and arts and crafts market on Sundays.
Today the City is encroaching on the traditional East End areas. But its success has indirectly led to London's biggest regeneration project - transformation of Docklands from 22 sq km (8.5 sq m) of dereliction to important business area and leisure attraction.
Renovated St Katharine's Dock, close to Tower Bridge, is now an attractive marina surrounded by wine bars and restaurants, and at Wapping there are many old warehouses, the majority of which have been converted into homes and leisure amenities - a process underway throughout East London. The Prospect of Whitby pub on the Wapping foreshore is a tourist attraction in itself. Nearby Tobacco Dock is a large leisure complex with shops, restaurants and entertainment. Moored at the quayside are two replica 18th-century pirate ships.
The whole area has undergone intensive redevelopment along its 88km (55 miles) of waterfront, and the Docklands Light Railway opened in 1987, providing easy access from the City. The Canary Wharf development boasts a 245m-high (800 ft) office tower, Britain's tallest building. London City Airport provides quick connections to short-haul destinations. Walks along the river and in the former docks areas are rewarding, offering unexpected glimpses of 18th- and 19th-century London.
The new Docklands Museum, which highlights the history of London's river and port industry and communities, occupies a listed warehouse on West India Quay.
Elsewhere in East London, Lea Valley Park stretches from Hertfordshire to Bromley-by-Bow in the East End and offers extensive recreational facilities. Attractions include the 16th-century Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge in Chingford and the 11th-century Waltham Abbey. Hackney's Victoria Park is another green space in the heart of urban sprawl.
Boat trips are available to the Thames Flood Barrier, situated down-river from Greenwich. 


South East and East Anglia 
South East England Tourist Board (tel: (01892) 540 766; fax: (01892) 511 008; website: southeastengland.uk.com). East of England Tourist Board (tel: (01473) 822 922; fax: (01473) 823 063; website: eastofenglandtouristboard.com). Southern Tourist Board (tel: (01703) 620006; fax: (01703) 602210; website: southerntb.co.uk). 
Covering the 'Home Counties' of Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey, East Sussex, and West Sussex, plus the East Anglian counties of Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk.
The Southeast is England's most populous, and prosperous, region. Despite the degree of development, though, there is huge variety of rural and heritage attractions, together with many major coastal resorts.
Interests range from the traditional seaside attractions of Brighton, Southend-on-Sea and Great Yarmouth to historic cities like Cambridge, Norwich, St. Albans and Colchester. The rural charms of 'Constable Country', straddling the Suffolk/Essex border, draw many visitors, as do the more urban attractions of Windsor and Dover, with their mighty castles. 


Kent 
Known as the 'Garden of England' for its copious production of fruit, hops and garden produce, Kent is the southeastern-most county in England. Canterbury is the major visitor magnet, retaining much of its medieval charm. Canterbury Cathedral, where Thomas à Becket was slain in 1170, is also headquarters of the Anglican Church. Nearby St Martin's Church is one of the oldest churches in use in the country, holding services since AD 500.
At Dover, main cross-channel port, massive Norman Dover Castle rises above the famous White Cliffs, while the White Cliffs Experience portrays a multimedia interpretation of the town's importance over the centuries. Rochester is a charming old town with strong Dickensian connections, including Restoration House, thought to be the prototype for Miss Haversham's home in 'Great Expectations'.
Tunbridge Wells, in the west of the county, is an elegant 18th-century spa town. Historic highlights in the county include Hever Castle, childhood home of Anne Boleyn, and Leeds Castle, said to be the world's most beautiful. 


Surrey and East/West Sussex 
London now swallows up much of Surrey, but towns like Guildford retain a historic charm. Major attractions include Thorpe Park and Chessington World of Adventure, both theme parks.
In Sussex, Brighton is perhaps the most popular and lively of the southeast resorts, made famous by the Prince Regent (later George IV) who ordered the remarkably opulent Pavilion to be built here. There are splendid 19th-century terraces and crescents, two piers, the 'Lanes' area of antique shops, a museum and an art gallery. Brighton also has a vibrant nightlife with many restaurants, pubs and clubs. Eastbourne is a somewhat more restrained Victorian resort town, while Hastings was the landing place for the invading Normans in 1066, and nearby Battle stands by the field in which Harold I was slain. Roman Chichester, to the west of Sussex, is famous for its arts festival and the nearby Fishbourne Palace - the remains of the biggest Roman villa yet discovered in Britain. 


Essex and Hertfordshire 
Colchester,county town of Essex, is Britain's oldest documented city, continuously settled since pre-Roman times. Norman Colchester Castle, built on Roman foundations, has the largest keep of any such building. The Essex coast stretches from the fringes of London in the south, and Southend-on-Sea has long been the traditional resort for East Londoners. Further north are the resorts of Clacton-on-Sea, Frinton and Walton-on-the-Naze, together with the historic port of Harwich.
Hertfordshire's principal places of interest include the Roman city of St Albans (Verulamiam). Part of the city walls, foundations of Roman houses and a temple remain, while the Verulamiam Museum displays local archaeological finds.To the east of St Albans in Hatfield, Hatfield House dates from the 16th century. It belonged to Robert Cecil, first minister to Elizabeth I and James I, and is one of the Southeast's finest historic houses.
On the fringes of northeast London is huge Epping Forest, which covers some 24 sq km (6000 acres). 


Berkshire 
The jewel in Berkshire's crown is Windsor, whose massive castle is one of the Queen's official residences as well as being open to visitors. It has been a royal home for nearly 900 years since the time of William I. Guided tours of the town are available, as well as bus tours and river cruises. Nearby is the 19 sq km (4800 acre) Windsor Great Park. Three kilometres (two miles) outside the town is Legoland, a major family attraction. Elsewhere in Berkshire, Slough is the major commercial centre, while Maidenhead and Marlow are pleasant riverside towns on the banks of the Thames. 


Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire 
The gently rolling Chiltern Hills of Buckinghamshire are within easy reach of London, offering pleasant countryside and quiet villages. At Amersham, the Chiltern Open Air Museum reflects five centuries of local life. Near Aylesbury, Waddesdon Manor is an impressive Victorian stately home. The 'new town' of Milton Keynes is the county's largest town, with a broad range of shopping and leisure pursuits. Bedfordshire's biggest visitor attraction is Woburn Abbey, home of the Dukes of Bedford since the mid-1550s, and surrounded by Britain's biggest Safari Park. Close to Dunstable, animals are also the focus at Whipsnade Zoo. 


Cambridgeshire 
(See also the Top Seven Destinations section). Outside the city of Cambridge, this county largely consists of low-lying agricultural countryside, particularly in the artificially drained Fenlands of the north. Highlights include Ely, with its huge Cathedral (known as 'Ship of the Fens'). Cromwell's House, home of the former Lord Protector, is open to the public and houses the Tourist Information Centre. Huntingdon also has strong Cromwellian connections. Peterborough, in the northwest of the county, also boasts a fine Cathedral, and the Nene Valley Railway. Close to the Norfolk border is Wisbech, inland port and typical fenland town. 


Norfolk and Suffolk 
Norwich, 'capital' of East Anglia and county town of Norfolk, is a delightful city, whose central streets still follow the medieval pattern. Norwich Cathedral is one of England's prettiest, while the Castle contains an art gallery, museum and local history exhibitions. Norwich's daily open-air market is one of the biggest in the country. East of the city, the Norfolk Broads is an extensive network of waterways popular for boating holidays. On the coast beyond the Broads is the major resort of Great Yarmouth. In the north and west are resorts such as Cromer and Hunstanton, plus the former Hanseatic port, King's Lynn.
Suffolk, to the south, is a county of quiet, typically 'English' countryside. The main town is Ipswich, and the coast is dotted with small resorts like Aldeburgh (with its annual arts festival) and Southwold. 


South and Southwest 
Covering Bath, Bristol, and the counties of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Oxfordshire, Somerset and Wiltshire, plus the Isles of Scilly.
Southern Tourist Board (tel: (01703) 620006; fax: (01703) 602210; website: southerntb.co.uk). South Western Tourist Board (tel: (08704) 420 0830; fax: (08704) 420 840; website: swtourism.co.uk).
Central Southern England and the Southwest contain many of England's top seaside resort areas, particularly in Devon and Cornwall, the Isle of Wight and along the Dorset coast. Inland, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire are characterised by attractive countryside, pretty villages and significant ancient and historical monuments. The major coastal cities, such as Portsmouth, Bristol and Plymouth, have strong seafaring traditions, while Oxford and Bath are among the most popular English cities with visitors (see the Top Seven Destinations section). Off the far southwest tip of Cornwall, the sub-tropical Isles of Scilly attract those looking for a quieter holiday. 


Bristol 
Major historic port, and boasting many visitor attractions. On the harbourside, At-Bristol is a complex containing an IMAX cinema, the Explore science centre and Wildwalk, an interpretation of natural history. Brunel's SS Great Britain, the world's first iron steam passenger liner, is restored and open to visitors. The Empire and Commonwealth Museum, the City Museum and Art Gallery and the Industrial Museum are important attractions, while Bristol Zoo at Clifton is close to Brunel's Clifton Suspension Bridge. Bristol Cathedral dates from the 15th century, but its origins date from the 1100s. Close to the city is the Severn Bridges Visitor Centre. 


Oxfordshire 
(See also the Top Seven Destinations section). Northwest of Oxford, on the fringes of the Cotswolds, is the impressive Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. The market town of Banbury is an attractive historic location, honoured with a nursery rhyme of its own. To the south is Didcot, whose Railway Centre is popular with steam train enthusiasts. On the banks of the River Thames is Henley, scene of the annual regatta, and possessing no less than 300 buildings of architectural and historic interest, including a fine 18th-century bridge. To the east of Wallingford is Stonor Park, a manor house dating from medieval times, once a secret Catholic stronghold in times of religious repression. 


Gloucestershire 
Gloucester is a cathedral city on the River Severn. Many of the streets and parts of the old city wall date back to the Middle Ages. The revitalised docks are lined with massive warehouses which are gradually becoming visitor attractions, among them the National Waterways Museum, the Marina and Tall Ships, plus the Opie Collection of Packaging.
Cheltenham, an elegant Regency spa town, is famous for its National Hunt Racecourse and annual music and literature festival. Malmesbury contains a fine example of Norman building in its abbey, the ruins of a 12th-century castle, a market square and several attractive 17th- and 18th-century houses. Cirencester has extensive Roman remains and is a good centre for exploring the Cotswolds. To the east of the Wye Valley is the Forest of Dean, 130 sq km (50 sq miles) of ancient hunting forest.
In the hilly countryside east of Gloucester is the village of Slad, immortalised by Laurie Lee in his book 'Cider with Rosie'. 


Wiltshire 
Even in prehistoric times the inland county of Wiltshire proved attractive to early settlers, and evidence of this - at places like Stonehenge, Avebury and Old Sarum - makes it ideal for exploring prehistoric remains. In addition, some of England's greatest stately homes are in Wiltshire, including Longleat, Wilton, Lacock Abbey, Corsham and Stourhead. Longleat is a very grand Elizabethan mansion, famous for its lions, and Stourhead, built in 1722, has particularly fine lakeside gardens.
Salisbury is dominated by its 123m (404ft) cathedral spire, England's tallest. The grounds of Salisbury Cathedral contain many notable houses open to the public. Mompesson House is a perfectly preserved 18th-century home and Malmesbury House was once sanctuary for King Charles II, fleeing after the Battle of Worcester in the 17th century. The city has a harmonious blend of gabled houses and historic inns, and offers a good choice of hotels, restaurants and shopping. Open-top bus or horse-drawn omnibus tours are available.
The remains of Old Sarum, ancient city and Norman fortress, are visible 3km (2 miles) away on Salisbury Plain but the most important site is the enormous prehistoric stone circle of Stonehenge. The site was possibly in use as long ago as 2500 BC. At the western end of Salisbury Plain, Warminster is a favourite haunt of UFO spotters.
The former railway works at county town Swindon house a new museum, Steam, dedicated to Brunel's Great Western Railway. 


Hampshire 
This region is one of great natural beauty but also enjoys the benefits of up-to-the-minute shopping, leisure facilities and nightlife. The county is justly famous for the New Forest, 376 sq km (145 sq miles) of open heathland, where ponies, deer and cattle roam freely. The New Forest was decreed a Royal Hunting Preserve in 1079 and is a haven for riders and walkers. Beaulieu, with its stately home and Motor Museum, and Bucklers Hard are major attractions.
Southampton is one of the most rapidly expanding cities on the south coast with new marinas, leisure facilities and shopping malls including the Waterfront, Ocean Village and Bargate.
There is a wealth of maritime history in the neighbouring naval city of Portsmouth - HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, the Mary Rose and the Royal Naval Museum. The D-Day Museum at Southsea tells the story of the 1944 allied Normandy landings.
Former English capital Winchester, in central Hampshire, has a magnificent 11th-century Cathedral. Romsey is an attractive market town associated with Broadlands, 18th-century former home of Lord Mountbatten.
Lymington is an attractive small town lying on the edge of the New Forest, with its own pretty harbour. Hamble to the east is a mecca for yachtsmen, the Hamble River providing good sheltered moorings, making it an ideal place to start a cruise around its waters or over to the Isle of Wight.
The Hampshire Borders, in the north of the county, have some lovely countryside. There are a number of historic houses in the region and lots of military museums. 


Isle of Wight 
Only 6km (4 miles) off the mainland, the Isle of Wight has beautiful countryside, unspoilt coastline and many sandy beaches. It has one of the best sunshine records in the country. Craft centres, country parks, historic buildings, sporting and leisure facilities abound. Often described as 'England in Miniature' the island offers rich contrast in scenery and character in its small area.
Cowes, world famous for yachting, also plays host to many national and international events, from sailing to power boating. There are five vineyards on the Isle of Wight, which also stage the unusual annual Garlic Festival every summer. Osborne House, at East Cowes, was Queen Victoria's favourite residence - she died here in 1901. Popular resorts on the southeast coast include Shanklin, Ventnor and Sandown. Parliamentarian forces imprisoned King Charles I at Carisbrooke Castle, in the centre of the island near Newport, prior to his execution in 1649. To the west, the dramatic Needles, chalk outcrops, jut from the sea, while visitors flock to Alum Bay to see the remarkable multicoloured sand of its cliffs. 


Isles of Scilly 
Scilly lies 50km (30 miles) off Land's End - only five (out of a total of around 100) islands are inhabited. They are a popular holiday destination, as the climate is warmer and more temperate than on the mainland. The tourism industry received a boost when former Prime Minister Harold Wilson bought a holiday home there.
Horticulture is now the islands' second-largest industry. Boat trips to visit smaller islands are popular, particularly from Hugh Town on St Mary's, largest of the islands, where Star Castle dominates the skyline. Tresco, especially, has the magnificent sub-tropical Abbey Gardens and the Abbey, which draw many visitors. Air and sea services connect Scilly with the mainland. Bryher has two small fortresses and the wild Hell Bay. 


Dorset 
The resort of Bournemouth has fine sandy beaches, excellent shopping, top-class entertainment and comfortable hotels and flats, making the town a popular holiday venue.
Nearby Poole has the world's second-largest natural harbour, in which is the island nature reserve of Brownsea. Boat trips make the short crossing from Poole Quay. The Tower Park leisure complex offers varied entertainment and activities. The quayside retains its 18th-century atmosphere - the Waterfront Museum and Poole Pottery stand on it.
Immediately west of Poole is the Isle of Purbeck. The coastline is scenic, also offering the resort of Swanage.
A little further west is Weymouth, with its beach, panoramic bay and historic harbour. There are entertainments and activities for all the family plus many top attractions and events including the Brewer's Quay leisure and shopping development.
Portland, joined to Weymouth by Chesil Beach causeway, is a fascinating peninsula. Famous for its stone, it also has several castles, a lighthouse and small, sheltered coves.
Lying inland, northeast of Weymouth, is Shaftesbury, Dorset's most ancient hilltop town, characterised by steep cobbled streets. Slightly to the south is the handsome 18th-century Blandford Forum. Distinguished by one of the county's most unusual churches is Wimborne Minster, a small market town to the southeast. 


Somerset 
Another attractive rural county, Somerset has three fine coastal resorts, Weston-super-Mare, Burnham-on-Sea and Minehead. Much of west Somerset lies within Exmoor National Park. Attractions in this region include the tiny Culbone Church, the clapper bridge at Tarr Steps, the idyllic villages of Selworthyand Dunster, and Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor. The town of Taunton lies to the west of the county, near the southern end of the wooded Quantock Hills. The county's northern boundary is emphasised by the limestone Mendip Hills. Along the southern edge are the cave attractions of the Cheddar Gorge, Wookey Hole and the great cathedral at Wells. The southeastern corner of the county around Yeovil has many historic houses open to the public. At Yeovilton, a short distance north, is the Fleet Air Arm Museum. Somerset has mystical connections, notably around the town of Glastonbury, where nearby Glastonbury Tor has long been a site of pilgrimage. 


Devon 
The area known as the English Riviera comprises Torquay, Brixham and Paignton. The major city is Plymouth, seaport for over 500 years and where Sir Francis Drake famously finished his game of bowls in 1588 before defeating the Spanish Armada. In 1620 the Pilgrim Fathers set out for the New World from Plymouth on the Mayflower, and parts of the town dating from this period still survive.
Inland on the Cornish border is the stark wilderness of the Dartmoor National Park where wild ponies roam freely across a beautiful landscape dotted with prehistoric remains. The park is popular with walkers. The county town, Exeter, has a long history and there are remains of Roman walls, underground passages, a beautiful cathedral and the oldest Guildhall in the Kingdom.
To the north of the county, resorts such as Lynton and Ilfracombe line the north coast, and in the northeast is another National Park, Exmoor, which straddles the Devon/Somerset border. 


Cornwall 
England's southwestern-most county, Cornwall is a Celtic land of rugged coastline, disused tin mines, attractive fishing villages and small seaside resorts. In the city of Truro, the county town, the Cathedral and the Royal Cornwall Museum and Gallery are the main sights. The nearby south coastline bears the name of the Cornish Riviera, and is lined with resorts including Mevagissey, Polperro and Falmouth, where Pendennis Castle houses the National Maritime Museum's Cornwall branch.
Close to St Austell is one of Britain's most ambitious new tourist developments, the Eden Project, whose huge geodesic domes house flora from all over the world. Cornwall is famous for its gardens, which benefit from the benign effects of the Gulf Stream; highlights among these include the Lost Gardens of Heligan and numerous National Trust properties like Lanhydrock, Trelissick and Cotehele.
Newquay, on the Atlantic coast north of Truro, is a mecca for surfers, while further east Bude offers sweeping sandy beaches.
Outside Penzance, in the far west, is St Michael's Mount, an island castle which mirrors that of France's Mont St Michel. Land's End features a Heritage Centre and various other family attractions.

Corrachadh Mor - The Western Point
The western point of the British mainland is Corrachadh Mor, Ardnamurchan peninsula, Highland, Scotland. Ordnance Survey 17 March 2004 "Corrachadh Mor Longitude 6 Degrees 13.68 Minutes West, Land's End Longitude 5 Degrees 43.03 Minutes West".
(by Thomas Murray, UK) 


The Midlands 
Heart of England Tourist Board (tel: (01905) 761 100; fax: (01905) 763 450; website: visitheartofengland.com).
The English Midlands cover a great swathe of the country south of the Humber Estuary and from the Welsh border in the west to the fringes of the Southeast. Counties included in this section are Derbyshire, Herefordshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Rutland, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire and the West Midlands.
From the wild moors of the Derbyshire Peak District National Park and major cities like Birmingham to the quiet villages of rural Northamptonshire and Herefordshire, the Midlands is a region of great diversity. The Industrial Revolution began in Shropshire, indeed, industrial heritage is a major feature here: the Staffordshire Potteries draw enormous numbers of visitors, while the motor industry has strong links with Warwickshire. 
Shakespeare lived in Stratford-upon-Avon (see the Top Seven Destinations section) while Nottingham is forever tied to the legend of Robin Hood. Great cathedrals, such as those of Lincoln, Lichfield, Coventry and Worcester are plentiful. The region's only stretch of coastline, that of Lincolnshire, has an array of seaside resorts, including Skegness, Mablethorpe and Cleethorpes.
Canals criss-cross much of the Midlands, and these former industrial supply routes are nowadays an important tourism resource, offering a relaxed way to enjoy the countryside from hired cruisers and narrowboats. 


Warwickshire and the West Midlands 
The industrial heart of Britain is surrounded by lovely countryside.
Birmingham, Britain's second-largest city, is a centre both of industry and culture. It has a magnificent library, and the Central Museum & Art Gallery is one of the finest in the country. Also in the city are the National Sea Life Centre, and the Jewellery Quarter, whose Museum tells the story of this interesting district. Birmingham has more canals than Venice, most of which are still navigable. Aston Hall, to the east of the city centre, is a splendid stately home, while in the southern suburbs at Bournville, Cadbury World is a popular family attraction in this famous chocolate manufacturing centre.
Birmingham is home of the National Exhibition Centre, site of many major exhibitions and trade fairs.
Northwest of Birmingham is the Black Country, an area extending into southern Staffordshire. Former industrial powerhouse and coal mining centre, the main towns of interest here include Dudley, which has a castle and a zoo in the same complex. The town also boasts the open-air Black Country Living Museum, from which it is possible to take canal boat trips through the tunnel to the spectacular Singing Cavern.
At Wolverhampton, Moseley Old Hall was once the hiding place of the future King Charles II following his escape from the Battle of Worcester in 1651. Walsall Arboretum, large decorative gardens, stages the immensely popular Walsall Illuminations each September and October.
Coventry, city of Lady Godiva and historic centre of the British motor industry, is famous for its modern cathedral, designed by Sir Basil Spence after destruction of the original during World War II.
Warwick contains many historic houses and Warwick Castle is one of the region's most popular attractions. In the city's historic Market Hall, the Warwickshire Museum contains displays of local archaeology and other historic items, while a fine Jacobean mansion houses St John's Museum. The Collegiate Church of St Mary, the Lord Leycester Hospital and the Doll Museum are also noteworthy. In the countryside are various stately homes, including 17th-century Ragley Hall, near Alcester. Leamington Spa is an attractive 18th-century spa resort. 


Herefordshire and Worcestershire 
The stretch of country between Worcester and the Welsh border is a rich farming area, with orchards, fields and meadows full of cider apples, hops and white-faced red cattle. Characteristic black and white half-timbered buildings decorate the villages and market towns such as Ledbury. The Wye Valley, the Malvern Hills and the Teme Valley all add to the area's beauty.
The Wye Valleyis an exceedingly beautiful area, with the river flowing first through gentle countryside but later through spectacular gorges near Symonds Yat. The town of Ross-on-Wye is a good base for exploring this area. Northwest of Ross is Hereford, also on the River Wye, an attractive cathedral city, which has a City Museum and Art Gallery as well as a Cider Museum. Nell Gwynne, actress mistress of Charles II, was reputedly born here. The medieval Mappa Mundi is on view at Hereford Cathedral, which also boasts a rare Chained Library. 
To the west of Hereford is Golden Valley, a remote region containing many attractive villages. At its northern end on the Welsh border is Hay-on-Wye, famous for having one of the world's largest second-hand bookshops.
Worcester, on the banks of the River Severn, has a Cathedral, the museum and factory of the Royal Worcester Porcelain Company, a magnificent Guildhall with a Queen Anne façade and a number of streets with overhanging half-timbered houses from the Tudor period. The Commandery, once battle headquarters of Charles II, now houses a Civil War audio-visual display.
South of Worcester are the steep Malvern Hills, which offer views across the rich agricultural landscape. Great Malvern began life as a spa resort in the 18th century. Tastings of the local spring water are available at St Anne's Well. 
Thirty-two kilometres (20 miles) north of Worcester is the Wyre Forest, ideal for walking and riding. Principal towns in this region are Stourport, Bewdley and Kidderminster, home to the southern terminus of the Severn Valley Railway, England's longest standard-gauge steam railway.
Worcestershire's biggest single visitor attraction is the West Midlands Safari Park at Bewdley. 


Shropshire 
This is a county of varied landscapes, including moorland, forests, gentle hills and open pasture. Despite this, Shropshire was also birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, evidence of which is visible in the area of Ironbridge Gorge. The Ironbridge Gorge Museum occupies a number of sites but the area's major landmark is the world's first Iron Bridge itself, built in 1779. Ruined Buildwas Abbey stands nearby.
On the eastern boundary of this district is the magnificent Restoration house and parkland known as Weston Park. Nearby is Boscobel where the future Charles II hid in the now famous Royal Oak after the Battle of Worcester.
To the west is the area of The Wrekin, a conical-shaped hill that figures in many local tales and legends. The county town, Shrewsbury, is one of the finest Tudor towns in England, celebrated for the flower market held every summer. Shrewsbury Quest portrays medieval monastic life at the time of Ellis Peters' 'Brother Cadfael', a fictional 12th-century resident of the town.
South and southwest of Shrewsbury are the Shropshire Hills, designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty. Ludlow (dominated by the ruins of its castle), Church Stretton, Bishop's Castle, Much Wenlock (13th-century Wenlock Priory is the major attraction here) and Bridgnorth (terminus of the steam Severn Valley Railway) are all attractive towns.
A large plain with many quiet roads, making it ideally suited to cycling or walking, dominates the north of the county. Market Drayton, Wem (famous for its beer), Whitchurch and Oswestry are the major market towns in this region. Hawkstone Park, with its collection of follies, and a cave where Aleister Crowley reputedly held satanic rituals, is an unusual diversion, while the Roman City at Wroxeter is an important archaeological site. 


Staffordshire 
Both agricultural and industrial, Staffordshire lies partly within the Peak District National Park and contains some of the most spectacular countryside, such as Thor's Cave and the limestone gorge at Dovedale on the Derbyshire border.
Stoke-on-Trent, known worldwide for its pottery industry, has major visitor attractions including the Wedgwood Story and the former pottery works now housing the Gladstone Museum. Among other famous brands associated with the city, which has some 40 factory shop outlets offering bargain china, are Royal Doulton and Spode.
East of the Potteries are scenic Churnet Valley and Vale of Trent, the latter containing Cannock Chase, an attractive area of heath and woodland. One of the most famous sights in the county is unusual Lichfield Cathedral, which has three spires. Samuel Johnson's birthplace is open to the public. Nearby Tamworth has a fine castle, along with Britain's first indoor ski slope using real snow, the Snowdome, and Drayton Manor theme park.
Staffordshire's numerous stately homes include Shugborough, home of photographer Lord Lichfield.
To the northeast is Alton Towers, the UK's biggest theme park; while in the east is the traditional centre of the English brewing industry, Burton-upon-Trent, where the Bass Museum tells the story of 'real ale' in the town. 


Northamptonshire 
Although major road and rail links traverse Northamptonshire much of the county remains unspoilt. One of the most attractive regions is the Rockingham Forest area in the east of the county, which contains several historic houses, and mighty Rockingham Castle. There is a Red Kite observatory at the RSPB Centre, Fineshade, near Corby.
Close to Oundle, a market town famed for its architecture and major public school, only a mound remains of Fotheringhay Castle, where Mary Queen of Scots met her end in 1587. Most other Northamptonshire historic houses are in much better condition, many of them still occupied. Of these, Althorp (which has a museum on the grounds commemorating the late Diana, Princess of Wales) and Sulgrave Manor, ancestral home of George Washington, are important. Other places of interest include the Central Museum in Northampton with its fine shoe collection, the Waterways Museum at Stoke Bruerne and the Santa Pod drag racing circuit outside Wellingborough. 


Leicestershire and Rutland 
The county of Leicestershire has many castles, manor houses and market towns. Leicester itself has Roman remains and a great deal of medieval architecture, and is nowadays important as a shopping centre. A major new visitor attraction, the National Space Centre, is now open in the city. 
Other towns of interest in the county include Market Harborough (close to which lie Foxton Locks, the longest chain of canal locks in England), Lutterworth (home of John Wycliffe) and Melton Mowbray, famous for Stilton cheese and pork pies. Near Leicester is Market Bosworth, the site of one of English history's most famous battles, when Henry Tudor defeated Richard III, the last Lancastrian, in 1485. Belvoir Castle near Melton Mowbray, is a popular historic attraction.
On the Warwickshire border, Twycross Zoo is an important attraction, while at Coalville, to the northwest of Leicester, the Snibston Discovery Centre is an interactive introduction to the world of technology. Conkers, a childrens' attraction themed on the natural world, is at Ashby-de-la-Zouch.
Rutland has the distinction of being England's smallest county. In the county town of Oakham, Oakham Castle has a remarkable collection of decorative horseshoes, each presented as a symbolic toll to the borough by monarchs passing through over the centuries. 


Lincolnshire 
Lincolnshire, the largest county in the East Midlands and the only one with a coastline, has several seaside resorts, notably Skegness and Mablethorpe, both of which are towns with good sunshine records. Grimsby remains an important fishing port, while nearby Cleethorpes is another resort - Pleasure Island Theme Park is a major attraction here.
Inland are the gently rolling hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds, where Tennyson spent much of his early life. The area around Spalding is among the country's richest farmland, and is famous for growing flower bulbs and its annual Flower Festival. The town's Ayscoughfee Hall Museum tells the story of surrounding Fenland.
During the 12th century, Boston was one of the three most important ports in England, and from here many of the Pilgrim Fathers planned to set sail for The Netherlands to find religious freedom, but were betrayed and imprisoned in cells still in Boston Guildhall. Boston's unusual church tower, known as the Boston Stump, is visible for miles around.
The county town of Lincoln is a well-preserved medieval city and the Cathedral, set on a limestone hill, has three towers, a fine Norman west front and a particularly beautiful 13th-century presbytery. The aptly named Steep Hill has some interesting shops and the Jew's House, halfway up the incline, is an unusual attraction. River cruises are available in the city centre.
Stamford, situated at the border of four counties, is another medieval town, with several fine churches and buildings of mellow stone. Nearby is Burghley House, built by one of Elizabeth I's most powerful ministers. The medieval Old Hall at Gainsborough in north Lincolnshire is an interesting attraction.
Lincolnshire boasts a number of castles, among them Bolingbroke Castle at Spilsby and Tattershall Castle, Coningsby. 


Nottinghamshire 
Nottinghamshire was legendary home of Robin Hood, and parts of his Sherwood Forest - including the celebrated Major Oak - still survive in the Country Park north of Nottingham. North Nottinghamshire is a former mining area, in which lies Eastwood, birthplace of D H Lawrence. Both his childhood home and the village's Durban House Heritage Centre commemorate the controversial author. Closer to Nottingham is Newstead Abbey, family seat of Lord Byron.
The university city of Nottingham boasts beautiful neo-Classical Nottingham Castle, which overlooks the city and contains a much visited museum and art gallery, and nearby Wollaton Hall, an Elizabethan mansion now housing a natural history museum. The Tales of Robin Hood (a 'dark ride' attraction), the underground Caves of Nottingham, and the Trip to Jerusalem, reputedly England's oldest inn, are also of interest in the city centre. Nearby is the Lace Market area, where attractions include Condemned!, an innovative museum dedicated to crime and often grisly punishment, and Lace Hall, which describes the industry from which the area takes its name. 
Newark-on-Trent has a 12th-century castle, and is an important antiques trading centre. 


Derbyshire 
The spa town of Buxton, the highest market town in England, makes a good base from which to explore the Peak District National Park, 1300 sq km (500 sq mile) of limestone dales and open moors. 
Other places of interest in Derbyshire include Matlock Bath, with its cable car ride across the Derwent Gorge to the Heights of Abraham and Blue John mine. Bolsover, a small market town with a 17th-century castle, is set in rich farmland. Creswell Crags has a Visitor Centre at the site of prehistoric archaeological finds. Chesterfield is another base for exploring the Peak District and is famous for its crooked-spire church. 
At Bakewell, Chatsworth House is the major attraction, there is also the Wind in the Willows Visitor Centre, based on the stories of Kenneth Grahame, at nearby Rowsley.
The county town of Derby is the home of Royal Crown Derby porcelain, and the city also offers a cathedral, museums and the Assembly Rooms.
For family outings, the American Adventure Theme Park at Ilkeston is popular, while at Crich, the National Tramways Museum offers more specialised interest, as does the Midland Railway Centre near Ripley. 


The North of England 
Cumbria Tourist Board (tel: (01539) 444 444; fax: (01539) 444 041; website: golakes.co.uk). North West Tourist Board (tel: (01942) 821 222; fax: (01942) 820 002; website: visitnorthwest.com). Northumbria Tourist Board (tel: (0191) 375 3011; fax: (0191) 386 0899; website: ntb.org.uk).
Covering Cheshire, County Durham, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Merseyside, Northumberland, Teesside, Tyne and Wear and Yorkshire.
In the southern and Eastern areas of the region lie sprawling industrial heartlands, but these are surrounded by some of England's most sparsely populated, and arguably most beautiful, countryside. The Lake District (See the Top Seven Destinations section) is the best known of the English National Parks - but there are three more in the region as well: Northumberland, the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales.
The coastline is often spectacular, particularly in north Yorkshire and northern Northumberland, while the North Pennines is as wild as English countryside can get.
All this contrasts starkly with the great industrial powerhouses of south and west Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, Tyne and Wear and east Lancashire. However, even in the cities, the unique character and heritage of the North Country shines through.
This is also a region containing many reminders of England's convoluted racial and religious heritage. The Romans left 1800-year-old Hadrian's Wall to posterity, place names are often of ninth-century Viking origin, and the importance of the Saxon Kingdom of Northumbria to development of Christianity in England is underlined at Durham City and on Holy Island. 


Cheshire 
Chester, the county town, is famous for being full of pretty black and white timber-framed buildings. The city dates from Roman times, as do parts of its otherwise medieval city walls. Remains of a 7000-seat Roman amphitheatre stand outside the centre, whose star attraction is The Rows, large double-deck buildings housing shops. The city has numerous notable timbered houses, including 17th-century God's Providence House and Bishop Lloyd's House. Chester Zoo is a major attraction, as is the unusual Cathedral with its detached bell-tower. The Deva Roman Experience recreates Roman life in Chester.
In the surrounding county, significant towns include Northwich, where the Salt Museum tells the story of Cheshire salt mining, Nantwich, where visitors can descend into the Hack Green 'Secret' Nuclear Bunker. Nearby,Stapely Water Gardens is the world's biggest attraction of its type. The scenery around Alderley Edge is noteworthy, while close to Macclesfield, Jodrell Bank Science Centre and Observatory is a major visitor attraction. Quarry Bank Mill, at Wilmslow, is an important industrial heritage site, recreating the 18th-century textile industry of the area. 


Lancashire 
Lancaster is the main centre in this county - echoes of its Georgian heyday as a major port remain along the historic St George's Quay, whose palladian-style Customs House is now home of the Lancaster Maritime Museum. The city centre architecture reflects the wealth of two centuries ago. Norman Lancaster Castle, owned by the Queen in her role as Duke of Lancaster, and still containing a working prison despite being open to visitors, stands beside the attractive Priory Church of St Mary on Castle Hill. The Ashton Memorial, a huge folly, dominates the skyline on the east of the city.
Immediately west of Lancaster are traditional seaside resort attractions at Morecambe, while in the surrounding countryside, the beautiful Lune Valley has inspired artists and poets through the ages, including Turner and Wordsworth. Further inland, the Pendle Witches Trail takes visitors on the path of grisly 17th-century events.
Blackpool, further down the Lancashire coast, is one of England's biggest seaside resorts, famous for its Eiffel-like Tower, its trams and the Blackpool Pleasure Beach amusement park. 


Greater Manchester 
Although dominated by one of England's biggest cities, the administrative area of Greater Manchester incorporates rural areas on the western slopes of the Pennine Hills, along with smaller industrial towns which grew up during the Industrial Revolution.
In Manchester itself there are numerous major attractions, including the Granada Studios Tour, home of 'Coronation Street'. During 2002, a new branch of the Imperial War Museum will open beside the Manchester Ship Canal in the Trafford area of the city. Manchester United Football Club is famous around the world, and guided tours of its Old Trafford stadium are available. The world's oldest passenger railway station now houses the Museum of Science and Industry, while the Manchester Jewish Museum occupies a restored 18th-century synagogue.
Outside Manchester, Wigan boasts one of the north's most popular attractions in Wigan Pier - a recreation of Victorian life based around a large canal basin, and incorporating a number of individual museums and other attractions.
Elsewhere in the county, the restored Elizabethan Old Grammar School at Rochdale is an unusual attraction. 


Yorkshire 
Yorkshire is a region of large industrial cities, beautiful countryside, rugged castles, stately homes and ancient churches. Its prime visitor attraction is, of course, York (see the Top Seven Destinations section).
In West Yorkshire is the huge Leeds/Bradford conurbation. Bradford is famous for its large Asian community, and this (and the food) is an attraction in itself, while The National Museum of Film, Photography and Television is the city's prime cultural draw with one of the first IMAX cinema screens. At Leeds, the Royal Armouries exhibition, Tetley Brewery Visitor Centre, West Yorkshire Playhouse and the Thackeray Medical Museum are all good reasons to spend time in the city.
Wakefield's Caphouse Colliery houses the National Mining Museum. Close by are the wild moors of the Pennines where the Brontë sisters lived in Haworth. At Halifax, Eureka! Is a major children's attraction.
The Yorkshire Dales National Park is popular year round. Its landscape is that of the books and TV series featuring vet James Herriot, set at Askrigg, in Wensleydale. Walking is a popular pastime in this area.
Historic castles abound in the region, including the great fortresses of Richmond and Middleham; the latter associated with Richard III. Bolton Castle in Wensleydale once imprisoned Mary Queen of Scots, while Pontefract Castle in West Yorkshire was scene of Richard II's murder in 1400.
Great houses are also a highlight, notably Castle Howard, near Malton, famous as setting for the TV adaptation of Evelyn Waugh's Brideshead Revisited. Others include Harewood House, Duncombe Park, Nostell Priory, Sledmere House and Burton Constable Hall.
Maritime East Yorkshire has powerful links with Britain's seafaring traditions. Hull is a major working port, recently transformed by waterfront developments, while majestic Humber Bridge is an attraction in its own right. Beyond Hull is the gentle lowland area of Holderness, which ends in the bird sanctuary at Spurn Point. To the north lies the ancient market town of Beverley, with Georgian houses in the shadow of the Minster. Close by is a racecourse and the Museum of Army Transport.
The North York Moors National Park has miles of open moorland with picturesque villages nestling in hollows. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway, starting at Pickering, is just one of several steam railways in Yorkshire - others include the Embsay Steam Railway at Skipton and the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway.
On the coast, family resorts include Scarborough and Bridlington, which have added a number of attractions, such as Bridlington's popular Leisure World Complex. There are also many smaller resorts, each with their own special character, like Whitby with its busy harbour and ruined clifftop Abbey, which inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula. Robin Hood's Bay, south of Whitby, is a famous beauty spot.
Between the coast and the Vale of York lie The Wolds, a range of rolling hills with villages and quiet lanes, ideal for walking or cycling. On their fringe is Malton, one of many interesting towns in the region - others of note include Thirsk, Skipton, Selby, Ilkley and Harrogate. 


Merseyside 
In the 1960s the Beatles put Liverpool firmly on the tourism map, and their fame still brings visitors from all over the world. Attractions include the Mersey Ferry, which plies the river between Birkenhead and Liverpool, and the restored Albert Dock complex, containing The Beatles Story, the Maritime Museum, the Museum of Liverpool Life and the Tate Gallery.
Outside the city, the elegant resort of Southport lies to the north, Aintree Race Course (home of the Grand National) is close to Bootle, and Port Sunlight, an historic model village, is on the Wirral Peninsula. The World of Glass is St Helens' main attraction. 


Teesside 
An industrial area centred on Middlesbrough, whose most famous son was James Cook. The Captain Cook Birthplace Museum tells his story. Coastal towns include Redcar, Saltburn and Hartlepool, with its maritime museum, restored historic ships and marina. Teesside's industrial history dates from the early 19th century (the world's first passenger train steamed into Stockton-on-Tees in 1825). Towns of interest include Marske, Guisborough and Upleatham, with reputedly the smallest church in England. 


Cumbria 
The Lake District (see also the Top Seven Destinations section) forms the central area of Cumbria. The rest of the county consists of three main sections: the north and east, (former Westmorland) which rises with the high North Pennine Hills towards Northumberland and County Durham, the Irish Sea coastline and the southern peninsulas. 
Just south of the Scottish Border is the 2000-year-old cathedral city of Carlisle, close to Hadrian's Wall and once a Roman camp. Red sandstone Carlisle Castle is a major landmark in the city, which has strong associations with the Border Reivers of medieval times. Their story, along with other local interests, is a central feature of the innovative Tullie House Museum and Gallery.
South of Carlisle lies the attractive market town of Penrith, to whose east the country rapidly rises across Alston Moor to historic Alston in the North Pennines, a former lead-mining centre. Set in the heart of an area of outstanding natural beauty, Alston is popular with walkers and cyclists who enjoy spectacular views from nearby Hartside Crag (which in turn boasts the highest café in England). The town also has the country's highest narrow gauge railway, and nearby are the former lead mines of Nenthead, now open to visitors.
On the coastline, the once important 18th-century trading port of Whitehaven today preserves an echo of former glories in its Georgian buildings. The region also has several coastal resorts such as Maryport, Silloth and St Bees, south of which is the controversial Sellafield reprocessing plant, and its Visitor Centre. The Ravenglass and Eskdale narrow-gauge railway is a pleasant means to reach the Lake District from the coast.
In south Cumbria, the shipbuilding town of Barrow-in-Furness has an excellent Docks Museum, while nearby Ulverston is famous as the birthplace of comic Stan Laurel, and offers the Laurel and Hardy Museum. To the east, Grange-over-Sands is a classic seaside resort overlooking Morecambe Bay - close to Grange are stately home Holker Hall and the preserved Lakeland and Haverthwaite Railway. 


County Durham 
Durham, from where Prince Bishops once ruled the North in the King's name, surrounds Durham City with its Castle, now part of the city's university, and magnificent Norman Cathedral. They overlook a horseshoe bend in the River Wear from their spectacular position atop a rocky outcrop. The cathedral contains the tombs of two important Northumbrian figures: St Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede. The historic city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The surrounding countryside, once a major coalfield, is often very beautiful, with market towns like Bishop Auckland and Barnard Castle among the highlights. The Bowes Museum, Raby Castle, and Beamish, the North of England Open Air Museum attract many thousands of visitors to the county. There are several castles, in varying degrees of preservation. Bishop Auckland is an ancient market town, and there is a 325 hectare (800-acre) deer park close by. Auckland Castle is the official residence of the Bishops of Durham. In the nearby village of Escomb, seventh-century Escomb Saxon Church is one of the oldest such buildings still in use.
Also within the county is part of the wild North Pennines, and scenic Weardale and Teesdale, which contains England's highest waterfall, High Force. Close to the Cumbrian border in the North Pennines district is Killhope Lead Mine, where visitors can take underground mine tours. 
Darlington, which made its name in the 19th century with the world's first passenger railway to nearby Stockton, has a famous railway museum. There are many other attractive towns and villages throughout County Durham, and good walking in the hills and moors. 


Tyne & Wear 
Tyne & Wear spans the mouths of the two major rivers in its name. Newcastle-upon-Tyne has excellent city centre shopping, museums, theatres, hotels, restaurants and almost legendary nightlife. There is also St Nicholas' Cathedral and the Norman Castle Keep from which the city takes its name. Modern attractions include the Discovery Museum, the interactive Centre for Life and (from 2002) the Baltic Mill modern art gallery. Hadrian's Wall began at Wallsend, location of the recently opened Segedunum Roman Fort attraction, and parts are still visible in the city.
Across the river are Gateshead with its massive Metro Centre indoor shopping and South Shields, home of the late author Catherine Cookson, and the Arbeia Roman Fort visitor attraction. 
Sunderland stands at the mouth of the River Wear and nearby is Washington, famous as the original home of US President George Washington's family. Christian heritage comes to the fore at Tynemouth Priory and Jarrow (home of the Venerable Bede) where Bede's World tells his story. 


Northumberland 
Northumberland, lying between the Scottish border and Tyne & Wear, is a large, rural county with many attractive villages and market towns. Its most famous landmark is Hadrian's Wall. Built in the second century AD, it marks the Roman Empire's northernmost border. Along the wall, numerous Roman forts and settlements are open to public view.
Medieval castles, including massive Bamburgh, craggy Dunstanburgh and Alnwick characterise the countryside, which was long an area of Anglo/Scots conflict. In contrast, ecclesiastical buildings on Lindisfarne (Holy Island) and at Hexham reflect the important role Northumbria played in establishing English Christianity. Hexham is a good base from which to explore the whole Northumbrian region. Much of the county is a National Park, with rolling moorland stretching from the North Sea to the Cheviot Hills on the Scottish border. England's most northerly town, Berwick-upon-Tweed, was a regular casualty in border battles, and changed hands between Scotland and England at least 13 times. Its medieval town walls are among Europe's best preserved. Today the town is a good base for touring northern Northumberland and the Borders.
Close to the Scottish Border, Kielder Water reservoir is Europe's biggest man-made lake, and offers a wide range of activity pursuits.

SCOTLAND:

Scotland is one of the world's great tourist destinations, offering a mixture of vibrant cities and beautiful countryside. The nation naturally divides into five main regions: the busy central belt, in which both the biggest cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow stand; the Southwest and Borders; the long East Coast; the mountainous Highlands and West Coast; and the many islands of the north and west.
Scotland's natural attractions are many, but it also has strong historic and cultural appeal. For more information about the country's legacy of castles and other historic properties, contact the following: The National Trust for Scotland (website: nts.org.uk); or Historic Scotland (website: historic-scotland.gov.uk). 


Edinburgh 
(Tourist Board website: edinburgh.org). Known as 'the Athens of the North', Edinburgh is one of the United Kingdom's finest cities. It straddles a deep gorge occupied by newly refurbished Waverley Station, and gardens containing the Scott Monument. On its south side is Old Town, the original city centre, while opposite is the predominantly Georgian New Town, with its elegant 18th-century architecture. This is also the main shopping area, centred on Princes Street.
Edinburgh Castle, the nation's top tourist attraction, also housing the Scottish Crown Jewels, stands in Old Town at the head of the Royal Mile, which extends to the Palace of Holyrood House, the Queen's official Scottish residence. Edinburgh Zoo is also popular, especially with families.
Attractions such as St Giles' Cathedral, John Knox House, the Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, the Writer's Museum and the Camera Obscura pepper the Old Town, along with galleries and museums. 
Edinburgh is home to many of Scotland's national galleries and museums, including the Museum of Scotland, the National Gallery of Scotland, a new gallery at the National Trust for Scotland, the National Portrait Gallery, the National Gallery of Modern Art and the National Museum of Antiquities. The National Centre for Dance opened in 2001. 
Edinburgh's cultural life offers a programme of theatre, music and dance unrivalled in the UK outside London. It has Britain's largest stage and largest theatre in the Festival Theatre and the Edinburgh Playhouse respectively. These feature during the three-week August Edinburgh Festival, the world's largest of its kind. The festival season kicks off with the spectacular Military Tattoo, staged outside the Castle.
The world's biggest New Year party (known as Hogmanay in Scotland) - takes place over several days at the end of each year. 


Excursions 
Attractions close to Edinburgh include the city's port, Leith, where the former Royal Yacht Britannia is now open to visitors; Linlithgow, with its magnificent palace;Hopetoun House, one of Scotland's best stately homes at South Queensferry; Deep Sea World, at North Queensferry; and the Scottish Seabird Centre at North Berwick. 


Glasgow 
(Tourist Board website: seeglasgow.com). Only 77km (48 miles) west of the capital, Glasgow is a dynamic cultural centre, with a variety of events taking place year-round - and of course the world-famous Burrell Collection and the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. Glasgow has fine parks, and Scotland's only complete medieval cathedral. Kelvingrove Park's art gallery houses works by top Renaissance and modern painters. The Royal Exchange Building houses the Gallery of Modern Art.
Hampden Park, the national soccer stadium, incorporates the new Scottish Football Museum. On the south bank of the Clyde, opposite the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre, is the new Glasgow Science Centre featuring interactive attractions and the 127m (416ft) revolving Glasgow Tower. Also on Clydeside is Clydebuilt, the Maritime Museum. 


Excursions 
Southeast of Glasgow is Lanark, where the New Lanark Visitor Centre is a complete 200-year-old model village built by social reformer Robert Owen. On a cliff overlooking the Firth of Clyde is Culzean Castle, once home of the Kennedy family. Immediately south of the city is Hamilton, with 13th-century Bothwell Castle and the Robert Adam Chatelherault Hunting Lodge. On the way to East Kilbride is the newly opened Museum of Scottish Country Life, a 68-hectare (170-acre) attraction based on a Georgian farm at Kittochside. 


Central Scotland 

(Tourist Board website: visitscottishheartlands.org). As well as the country's two major cities, the populous central area of Scotland contains many other places of historical, scenic and general interest. Almost anywhere in this region is within easy excursion distance of either Glasgow or Edinburgh.
Despite the urban nature of much of the central area, attractive countryside is never far away. In the west are the Firth of Clyde and the Dunoon Peninsula, to the northwest lies Loch Lomond, and to the east are the small villages and rugged coastline of the former county of Berwickshire. 


Stirling 
Huge Stirling Castle sits dramatically atop a volcanic promontory above the town. The nearby Wallace Monument similarly dominates the surrounding countryside. In the town centre is the Old Town Gaol, while close by are the battlefields of Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn, where William 'Braveheart' Wallace and Robert Bruce respectively inflicted humiliating defeats on the English in the late 13th and early 14th centuries. 


Excursions 
Blair Drummond Safari Park, the little cathedral city of Dunblane, Doune Castle and Callander, site of the Rob Roy and Trossachs Visitor Centre are all well worth visiting. 


South West Scotland and the Borders 
South and west of Glasgow, Ayrshire (Tourist Board website: ayrshire-arran.com) has an attractive coastline and a number of seaside resorts including Prestwick and Troon, site of yet another world-class golf course. Irvine offers the Scottish Maritime Museum, and nearby Dundonald Castle was childhood home of William Wallace. Vikingar, a multimedia visitor centre at Largs, highlights Viking influences on the region, while Alloway, birthplace of Robert Burns, features a number of attractions dedicated to the poet. Off the Ayrshire coast lies Arran, an extremely popular holiday island. 


Dumfries & Galloway 
(Tourist Board website: dumfriesandgalloway.co.uk). The region consists of open, rolling countryside, lakes and pine forests. Towns like Dumfries, home of Robert Burns; Kirkcudbright, a former artist's colony; and Gatehouse of Fleet are all popular centres. Country houses, castles, gardens and special interest museums are common in the area. To the far southwest, Stranraer is the ferry port for Belfast, and the main town on the sub-tropical Rhinns of Galloway Peninsula. 


The Borders 
The Borders area (website: scot-borders.co.uk) was scene of many Anglo-Scottish battles down the centuries. It is a region of lush green hills and moorland. The area's wealth allowed construction of several outstanding ecclesiastical buildings, notably the abbeys at Jedburgh, Dryburgh and Melrose. The border towns of Selkirk, Galashiels, Peebles and Hawick are still centres of the wool, tweed and knitwear industry. Abbotsford was home to Sir Walter Scott. 


The East Coast 

Aberdeen 
(Tourist Board website: agtb.org). Fifty-six kilometres (35 miles) north of Montrose is the 'Granite City', Scotland's third largest built largely, as its nickname suggests, of granite. It is the centre of Britain's North Sea oil industry. The city has a 16th-century cathedral, a university and a 14th-century bridge, the Brig O'Balgownie. Visitor attractions include the Art Gallery, Marischal Museum and Maritime Museum. Inland on Royal Deesside, Braemar is site of the most famous of the Highland gatherings. There are several National Trust properties within easy reach of Aberdeen, including Fyvie Castle and Castle Fraser. 


Dundee 
(Tourist Board website: angusanddundee.co.uk). North across the Firth of Tay in the former county of Angus is the city of Dundee. A city of printing, jam and jute, Dundee is home to the Discovery Point Visitor Centre, based around Captain Scott's exploration ship, RRS Discovery, which lies alongside. Another popular attraction is Sensation, which offers a hands-on exhibition about the senses. Verdant Works traces Dundee's long tradition of jute trading, in the Textile Heritage Centre. 


Inverness 
(Highlands of Scotland Tourist Board website: host.co.uk). The UK's northernmost city, many of whose buildings date back to the 17th century. Inverness is also famous for its location at the head of Loch Ness, deep-water home of the mythical monster. Balnain House is an important attraction for traditional music lovers. Nearby is the site of the Battle of Culloden where the English crushed Bonnie Prince Charlie's forces in 1746. 


Perth 
(Tourist Board website: perthshire.co.uk). King James I's own relatives murdered the unpopular monarch here in 1437, and later John Knox preached one of his earliest sermons in the town. Nowadays Perth boasts Scotland's Garden and the National Tartan Centre, both of which opened during 2001, together with two castles and Scone Palace, where Scottish monarchs were once crowned. 


Elsewhere 
St Andrews (Tourist Board website: standrews.com), northeast of Edinburgh in the 'Kingdom' of Fife, claims to be the home of world golf. In addition, the town has a university, castle and cathedral. The Lammas Fair takes place every August. Some 25km (15 miles) to the north is Glamis, whose castle features in Shakespeare's Macbeth.
West of Dundee is the former county of Perthshire. This area was centre of the Pictish realm, and the northernmost area in Britain occupied by the Romans.
Up the coast from Dundee is Carnoustie, famous in golfing circles around the world. Next is Arbroath, which has a famous ruined Abbey and a strong fishing heritage - the famous 'Arbroath Smokies' (smoked haddock) come from here. Further north, the town of Montrose has fine broad streets and sandy beaches.
Continuing north past Aberdeen to Peterhead and Fraserburgh, the coastal trail leads through charming fishing villages, then west along the Moray Firth to the Georgian town of Banff and magnificent Duff House where part of the reserve collection of the National Galleries can be seen.
Further along this coastline is Elgin, which has a ruined cathedral and a well-restored abbey church. There are many highland gatherings and games in this region. Beyond Inverness, the countryside is mainly moorland, glens and forests, and home to some of Britain's rarest fauna, including wildcats and golden eagles.
Most of the towns in this area are small, highlights include Dingwall and Invergordon. The towns of Thurso and Wick mark the end of the railway line. John O'Groats, due north of Wick, is the northernmost village on the British mainland. 


The Highlands & the West Coast 

The Scottish Highlands (website: host.co.uk) contain some of Britain's most breathtaking scenery. Railway and road traverse the countryside between the capital and Inverness, passing through the Grampian Mountains and the Forest of Atholl. The lochs of the central highlands feed the River Tay, one of the best fishing rivers in the British Isles. Tayside, and Speyside to the north, are Scotland's major whisky-producing areas, with dozens of distilleries. Also in the Highlands are the Pass of Killiecrankie, Blair Atholl, Kingussie and Aviemore, the winter ski resort. 


Fort William 
One of the best-known towns on the West Coast, as well as the largest resort. Above the town looms Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis (1343 metres, 4406 ft). Attractions in the town include the Ben Nevis Distillery and Visitor Centre. Nearby is Glencoe where the Campbells massacred the Macdonald clan in their sleep; when shrouded in mist, Glencoe still has a haunting atmosphere. The Glencoe Visitor Centre tells this story, while Celtic myth and legend is the topic of Highland Mysteryworld close by. 


Elsewhere 
On the West Coast (website: visitscottishheartlands.com) at the mouth of Loch Linnhe is Oban, gateway to many of the islands and the beautiful region of Kintyre. Further north is the town of Mallaig, which, like Oban, is a rail terminus. One of the best ways to reach Mallaig is on the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William, which runs through some spectacular scenery. The so-called 'Road to the Isles', which also passes through Glenfinnan and Arisaig, a pretty resort known for its white sands, is the driving alternative.
Ullapool is still an important fishing port, and is also the departure point for car ferries to the Outer Hebrides. North of Ullapool, the road passes through Inverpolly Nature Reserve into Sutherland, and the landscape becomes even wilder, with isolated mountains rising from a rocky plateau. Fishing villages dot the rugged coastline. Inland is one of Europe's last great wildernesses, an area of mountains, moorland, lochs and rivers, rich in wildlife. 


The Orkney and Shetland Islands 
These two island groups lie northeast of the Scottish mainland - see the Travel section for details of air and sea connections. The islands are of particular interest to birdwatchers, sea anglers and rock climbers. Birds are also the main attraction on National-Trust-owned Fair Isle, between Orkney and Shetland. 


Orkney 
(Tourist Board website: orkney.com). The Pentland Firth separates Orkney from the mainland. The islands are fertile, although with very few trees, and enjoy a predominantly mild, variable climate. The main town, situated on Mainland, is Kirkwall, boasting a cathedral and many other places of interest. Orkney is rich in prehistoric sites, including the Stone Age village of Skara Brae, the Maes Howe burial mound, and the standing stones at the Ring of Brogar. On the other side of Scapa Flow is Hoy, whose sheer cliffs and windswept sandstone landscape make it one of the most dramatic of the Orkney group. Other islands include Westray and South Ronaldsay. 


Shetland 
(Website: shetland-tourism.co.uk). This group of 100 (15 inhabited) rugged islands is the most northerly part of Britain. Their climate is surprisingly mild considering their northerly latitude (the same as southern Alaska). The chief town of Lerwick, on Mainland, the largest island, relied in former days almost solely on fishing but now benefits from North Sea oil. Places of interest include the Jarlshof Bronze Age settlement, the island of Foula, the nature reserve on Noss, Mousa Broch on uninhabited Mousa, and the world's most northerly castle on Unst. 


The Hebrides 

A network of ferry routes from the mainland serves the Inner and Outer Hebrides. Many are also reachable by air.
Among the inner islands are Islay (an important whisky distilling location with six distilleries open to visitors) and Jura. Iona is Scotland's Holy Island and first permanent British Christian site, as well as burial place of many Scottish kings and chiefs. A ferry from Oban serves Mull and the Western Isles. A little further from the mainland are Tiree and Coll, small communities in the windswept Atlantic. 


Skye 
The Sound of Sleat and the Inner Sound separate world-renowned Skye from the mainland. There are ferry links from Mallaig, while the Skye Bridge crosses from Kyle of Lochalsh. The Bright Water Visitor Centre on the Isle of Skye celebrates the history of the island. The island 'capital' is Portree, while major attractions include Talisker Distillery, Armadale Castle, and seal-watching boat trips past the Cuillin Mountains. 


The Western Isles 
(Tourist Board website: witb.co.uk). Settled for at least 5000 years, this chain stretches for 200km (130 miles) from north to south in a gentle arc. The northernmost, and largest, island is that of Lewis and Harris, the former containing the Western Isles' capital, Stornoway (Steornabhagh). The well-known tweed cloth comes from Harris, at the mountainous southern end of the island. Across the Sound of Harris lies North Uist (Uibhist a Tuath), further south are Benbecula (Beinn na Faoghua), South Uist (Uibhist a Deas) and Barra, where the 'airport' is the smooth sandy beach. Each island has its own strong character, and all have good beaches. Attractions include the 5000-year-old Calanais Standing Stones on Lewis; Barra's Kisimul Castle and the Seallam Visitor Centre, Taobh Tuath, Harris.

WALES:

Populous South Wales incorporates the capital Cardiff, the cities of Swansea and Newport, Carmarthen Bay and two national parks, Pembrokeshire Coast and Brecon Beacons. The Cambrian Mountains and the attractive coastal resorts of Cardigan Bay are highlights of mid-Wales, while the North has popular seaside resorts like Llandudno and Rhyl, the island of Anglesey and the scenic delights of Snowdonia National Park.
Wales is an historic land of castles and mountains, sweeping beaches and strong national identity dating back to pre-Norman times. There is also industrial heritage, primarily in the Valleys of the south. It is also famous for its narrow-gauge railways (see Rail in the Travel section). 


South Wales 

Cardiff (Caerdydd) 
The modern city has two parts: the original centre and Cardiff Bay, which is now the focus of much leisure and tourism development as well as home of the Welsh National Assembly.
In the city centre, parts of Cardiff Castle, despite extensive rebuilding in the 19th century, date back to the Middle Ages. The National Museum and Gallery, with Welsh archaeology, arts and crafts as well as European paintings, is another highlight, as are the many attractive Victorian shopping arcades. The Millennium Stadium, new home of Welsh Rugby Union, is an imposing attraction open for guided tours on non-matchdays.
The Cardiff Bay area, about 2km (1.5 miles) south of the centre, offers diverse interest ranging from boat trips to the impressive Barrage (which now seals the Bay off from the open sea), to the Techniquest Science Discovery Centre.
About 8km (5 miles) west of Cardiff is St Fagans with its open-air Museum of Welsh Life. 


Swansea (Abertawe) 
The country's second city has over 45 parks, is a popular seaside resort, and is conveniently close to the Gower Peninsula. However, it is probably best known as the birthplace of Dylan Thomas (1914-1953). A city centre walking trail begins at the Dylan Thomas Centre, and leads visitors around sites associated with the poet and playwright. Elsewhere in the city, the Swansea Museum dates from the 1830s. The Egypt Centre Museum specialises, as its name suggests, in Egyptology, while pottery, porcelain and modern art feature at the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery. At Parc Tawe, Plantasia is a high-tech tropical hothouse with plants from all over the world. A new Arts Wing was recently opened in Swansea's Grand Theatre, the city's main show venue. 
Mumbles, a suburb of Swansea, is also an important resort. 


Elsewhere 
Chepstow, whose castle and town walls date from medieval times, straddles the English/Welsh border. Nearby Caerwent is rich in Roman remains. Between Cardiff and the English border is Newport, Wales' third-largest town, which has a 15th-century cathedral.
South Wales' biggest inland draw is the Brecon Beacons National Park, whose main touring bases are Brecon and Abergavenny. The narrow-gauge Brecon Mountain Railway runs through the hills from Merthyr Tydfil.
In the Valleys, Blaenafon (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) offers industrial heritage attractions in the shape of Big Pit Mining Museum and the Ironworks. Caerphilly has a massive castle, and at nearby Treharris is Llancaiach Fawr Living History Museum.
Numerous resorts line the coast between Cardiff and Swansea, including Barry, Porthcawl and Aberavon. Others, along the Gower Peninsula, include Oxwich and Port Eynon.
The former county of Pembrokeshire, in the west, has many castles as well as the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The best-known religious building in the area is the cathedral of St David's, Britain's smallest city. 


Mid-Wales 

Aberystwyth 
A university town midway round Cardigan Bay, and a popular resort. It is the base for visits to Devil's Bridge Waterfalls, one of Britain's most notable beauty spots, linked to the town by the Vale of Rheidol narrow-gauge steam railway. There are two other similar railways close by; the Tal-y-Llyn Railway, which runs for about 10km (16 miles) from Abergynolwyn through beautiful countryside to Tywyn; and the Fairbourne Railway linking Fairbourne with the Barmouth Ferry. Aberystwyth also has Britain's longest electric cliff railway, and the Ceredigion Local History Museum. 


Machynlleth 
Celtica is a major visitor attraction here, focusing on Wales' Celtic heritage, while underground boat trips and spectacular showcaves feature at King Arthur's Labyrinth. The town also boasts the Centre for Alternative Technology, which highlights environmental issues and sustainable energy use; Senedd-Dy Owain Glyndwr (the 15th-century Welsh parliament building) and the Y Tabernael modern art gallery. 


Welshpool 
To the east of the region, near the English border, this is an attractive town with many Georgian buildings and the Welshpool and Llanfair narrow-gauge railway. The Andrew Logan Museum of Sculpture is popular, as are cruises on the Montgomery Canal. South of the town is the splendid Powis Castle, built in the 13th century and modernised 300 years later. 


Elsewhere 
Cardigan, at the southern end of Cardigan Bay (Bae Ceredigion) is a pleasant market town, and a good starting point for exploring western parts of Mid-Wales. Along the bay there are many small resort towns and villages, rocky coves and sandy beaches.
Barmouth was once one of the most popular resorts in the British Isles, frequented by such luminaries as Darwin and Tennyson. There are good beaches, both in the town and near Dyffryn Ardudwy to the north.
Towns of interest inland include Builth Wells, an important cattle-trading town; Strata Florida Abbey; Lampeter and Tregaron on theRiver Teifi, and Llandrindod Wells, Wales' foremost spa resort in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. 
On the northern tip of Cardigan Bay is Harlech, famous both for its castle which overlooks the peaks of Snowdonia and for the stirring song, 'Men of Harlech', referring to the 15th-century defence of the castle. South of Harlech is Llanbedr, a popular yachting centre. 


North Wales 

Caernarfon 
Facing the Isle of Anglesey across the Menai Strait is Caernarfon, whose 13th-century castle and walls dominate the town. Prince Charles' investiture as Prince of Wales took place here in 1969. Segontium Roman Fort is another attraction. Work is currently under way on a 40km (25 mile) extension to the narrow-gauge Welsh Highland Railway, which will ultimately connect Caernarfon with Porthmadog. 


Conwy 
With its mighty castle and complete medieval town walls, Conwy is an important historic centre. It also offers the tropical Butterfly Jungle and riverbus cruises along the Conwy River. The Royal Cambrian Academy of Art is also in the town, whose Visitor Centre presents a multimedia show about the area. Nearby are the superb Bodnant Gardens. 


Llandudno 
Beneath Great Orme Head lies one of the country's busiest resorts. It has almost every possible amenity as well as being within striking distance of the beautiful hinterland, which includes the Snowdonia National Park. The town's attractions include the Great Orme Mines, the world's largest prehistoric site of its type, the Llandudno Cable Car, which climbs to the summit of Great Orme, and the North Wales Theatre, a major arts venue. 


Rhyl 
A town with a 5km (3 miles) promenade and extensive leisure and recreation facilities. It is also a good base for excursions to St Asaph, a city with the smallest medieval cathedral in Britain. Major attractions in Rhyl include the Sea Life Aquarium, the Rhyl Museum and Art Gallery as well as the Pavilion Theatre. 


Wrexham 
Close to the English border, Wrexham is the largest town in north Wales. Attractions such as the Arts Centre, the nearby Minera Lead Mines and Bersham Ironworks Heritage Centre are the main points of interest in an otherwise industrial town. A kilometre south lies Erddig, a 17th-century squire's house containing much of the traditional furniture and with many of the outbuildings still in their original condition and in working order. 


Elsewhere 
One of the longest established tourist areas in the British Isles, north coast beach resorts like Llandudno, Prestatyn and Rhyl still remain popular with holidaymakers. The chain of resorts continues almost unbroken for miles; Rhos-on-Sea, Colwyn Bay (location of the Welsh Mountain Zoo), Abergele and Prestatyn all have good beaches. Further east lie Bagillt and Flint, once capital of a tiny county bearing the same name.
Porthmadog, on Tremadog Bay, is another resort town - close to here is the village of Portmeirion, location for the 1960s 'Prisoner' TV series and home of Portmeirion China.
The world's oldest independent narrow-gauge railway, the Ffestiniog Railway, carries thousands of visitors from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog each year, many of whom go to see the Llechwedd Slate Caverns.
West from Porthmadog is the Lleyn Peninsula, with its many good beaches, particularly on the south coast, at towns such as Criccieth (home of the Lloyd George Museum), Pwllheli, Abersoch, Aberdaron, and, on the northern coast, Nefyn and Clynnog-Fawr.
Anglesey, known as Ynys Môn locally, is notable for the remarkable Menai Bridge, the Anglesey Sea Zoo at Brynsiencyn, and Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch (commonly called Llanfair PG), which boasts the UK's longest place name. The island's main town, Beaumaris, has a castle built by Edward I and the Museum of Childhood Memories. 
Back on the mainland is the university and cathedral city of Bangor; its attractions include a huge doll collection housed in Penrhyn Castle.
Snowdonia National Park is 2200 sq km (840 sq miles) containing some of Britain's finest scenery, and 14 peaks over 915m (3000ft), the highest of which is Mount Snowdon (1085m 3556ft). The Snowdon Mountain Railway climbs from Llanberis to the summit. Other attractions in the region include Betws-y-Coed, in the Gwydyr Forest; Bethesda, southeast of Bangor; Bala Lake, which also has a narrow-gauge railway; and Beddgelert, location of the Sygun Copper Mine.
In the east of the region is Chirk Castle, a 14th-century Marcher fortress built to guard the frontier, which it straddles. It stands in an area of great natural beauty, including the forests of Dyfnant, Ceiriog and Penllyn. Llangollen, set in forested landscape, overlooks the salmon-rich River Dee and a masterpiece of medieval bridge building. Nearby are the 13th-century Vale Crucis Abbey and the spectacular road across the Horseshoe Pass.

NORTHERN IRELAND:

County Antrim 
To the northwest lies the Causeway Coast with its holiday resorts; the Giant's Causeway, 38,000 hexagonal basalt columns formed by cooling volcanic flow (listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site); and the Old Bushmills Distillery, one of the oldest whiskey distilleries in the world. Nearby, massive ruined Dunluce Castle stands atop the cliffs.
The nine Glens of Antrim, and the spectacular coast road running north from Larne, are prime draws in the east of the county, as is Carrickfergus Castle, on the north shore of Belfast Lough. Castle Gardens at Antrim, on the northeast shore of Lough Neagh, exemplify 17th-century horticultural design. Nearby, Patterson's Spade Mill at Templepatrick is an unusual attraction. Ferries serve Rathlin Island, where Robert the Bruce supposedly observed the persistent spider, nowadays a bird sanctuary, from Ballycastle. 


Belfast 
The capital stands on the River Lagan at the head of Belfast Lough. It offers excellent shopping, and a wide range of visitor attractions. A uniquely Belfast experience is the guided bus tour around focal points of Belfast's recent history, including Falls Road and Shankill Road, to see the famous murals. The Ulster Museum, in the Botanic Gardens, covers an eclectic mix of archaeology, art and natural sciences. North of the city centre are Belfast Zoo, Belfast Castle and Cave Hill, a popular lookout point. The Lagan Lookout on Donegall Quay explains the river's role in Belfast's development. Opposite the refurbished Grand Opera House in Great Victoria Street is the ornate Crown Liquor Saloon, a Victorian public house owned by the National Trust. For younger visitors, the Dreamworld indoor theme park is a new venue in the Windsor district. 


County Armagh 
Northern Ireland's smallest county rises from Lough Neagh to rocky Slieve Gullion, Cuchulain's mountain, in the south. Armagh City is the all-Ireland religious capital, with two cathedrals; the Armagh County Museum; Georgian Mall; and the Planetarium/Space Centre. Outside the City, the Navan Centre, built at the site of ancient Ulster capital, Emain Macha, is an exciting multimedia window on the past. At Craigavon, the Lough Neagh Discovery Centre explains the UK's largest lake. The lough and the Blackwater River both offer watersports and angling. 


County Down 
From Silent Valley in the mysterious Mountains of Mourne, to Strangford Lough (according to legend St Patrick's landfall when he arrived in Ireland in AD 432) and the resort coast of Belfast Lough, this is a county of great variety. At Holywood, west of Belfast, the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum is a major attraction, while in Bangor, the Castle and the North Down Heritage Centre are highlights. Mount Stewart House, near Newtonards, is a fine stately home. Portaferry offers the Exploris Aquarium, while students of St Patrick flock to Downpatrick, where his grave reputedly lies in the cathedral grounds, and the Saint Patrick Centre tells his story. The linen industry is important to west Down culture, and visitors to Banbridge can take appropriately themed guided tours. 


County Fermanagh 
Ulster's Lakeland is the predominant feature of the county. Enniskillen, the county town, straddles the narrows between Upper and Lower Lough Erne. Pleasure boats run to Devenish Island, an important early monastic site complete with round tower. Enniskillen Castle incorporates a Heritage Centre and the Museum of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers regiment. Golf, sailing, water-skiing and even pleasure flying are available nearby. Fishermen make record catches here - the lakes are said to be 'polluted with fish'. Two nearby stately homes, Florence Court and Castle Coole, are open to the public. Upon entering Marble Arch Caves to the south of Enniskillen, visitors take an underground boat trip to the showcaves. At historic Belleek Pottery in the far west of the county, craftspeople demonstrate their skills in fine porcelain manufacture. 


County Londonderry 
Massive 17th-century city walls and 'singing pubs' are famous features of Derry/Londonderry, on the River Foyle. The Tower Museum sensitively - and vividly - interprets the city's turbulent history, while the Fifth Province celebrates Irish Celtic culture. The Foyle Valley Railway Centre focuses on the region's former narrow-gauge network. The wild Sperrin Mountains lie south of Limavady, near which is the beautiful Roe Valley Country Park, where Ulster's first hydroelectric power station, the Power House, is open to visitors. At Draperstown to the east, the Ulster Plantation Centre tells the story of a notorious aspect of Irish history. 


County Tyrone 
Between the Sperrins in the north and green Clogher Valley with its village cathedral in the south lies a region of great historical interest. The Ulster-American Folk Park near Omagh acknowledges the county's close connections with the USA. The Ulster History Park is nearby. Gray Printers' Museum at Strabane still has its original 19th-century presses. There are forest parks at Gortin Glen and Drum Mano. Dungannon, in the southeast of the county, is home to Tyrone Crystal - whose glassworks are open to visitors.

PASSPORT AND VISA APPLICATION

Furthermore, in order to get into many countries on the stay abroad you will require a visa of some type, even if you are just visiting. This is usually an insert, stamp or sticker which is placed in your passport and the duration of its validity varies from place to place. If you do intend to work or study in the country to which you are traveling, however, you should organize your visa even further in advance as this can take longer to process.

As well as your passport you should ensure that you have at least one other form of identification with you. This may be a driver’s license, birth certificate or any other form of ID which is acceptable worldwide. As with passports, bring at least two copies of all forms of identification in case of loss or theft.

Help to Passport and Visa Application Forms. How to find the right one(s)?

A passport is issued to you by your home country as proof of citizenship. Visas are stamped into your passport to allow you entry into other countries. Although there are exceptions, you are usually required to display your passport when entering or leaving a country. Once you arrive at your destination, carry a photocopy of your passport and keep the original in a safe place.

A visa is an endorsement or stamp entered into your passport by a foreign government. It allows you to enter that country for a specific reason and period of time. Start applying for visas as soon as your passport is available so that all your documentation is completed well before your departure date. To receive a visa you need to send your passport to an embassy or consulate of the country you want to visit. Most countries have embassies and consulates worldwide, and travel agents can usually tell you where the nearest ones are located. Keep in mind that your passport may be tied up for days or weeks until the paperwork is done, so plan accordingly. In addition, some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination before they will issue you a visa. The amount of time spent mailing your passport to the various agencies involved can really add up if you are visiting several countries. Plan ahead if possible. If you only have a few weeks to prepare, a commercial visa service can often speed up the process.

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