Home/
England

Things to Do in England

Choose from 322 Fun Things to Do in England

Greenwich

On the south bank of the River Thames, just downriver from central London, Greenwich is one of London’s most atmospheric boroughs. Famous for its UNESCO World Heritage–listed maritime history and Royal Observatory—the home of Greenwich Meantime—it’s a lively retreat from the busy inner city.

The Basics

The most scenic way to arrive in Greenwich is by boat, and sightseeing cruises along the Thames run all the way from Westminster, passing landmarks like Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Shakespeare’s Globe along the way. The best way to explore is on foot and a walking tour of Greenwich typically includes landmarks such as the Cutty Sark (the world’s sole-surviving tea clipper), the Old Royal Naval College (famous for its magnificent Painted Hall), the National Maritime Museum, and the Queen’s House. Be sure to visit the Royal Observatory, where you can stand at the meeting point of two hemispheres on the Prime Meridian Line, and Greenwich Market, which is renowned for its art, handicrafts, and delicious street food.

Things to Know Before You Go

Greenwich is a lovely spot for London-goers looking for a break from the big city.
Plan to spend at least a half-day in Greenwich or a full day if you want to take in all the sights.
Wear comfortable shoes to explore the Greenwich on foot—it’s full of hills, cobblestone streets, and steps.
The Royal Observatory and many of the other attractions in Greenwich are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Thames Clippers boats run down the River Thames from Embankment Pier and Tower Pier in central London, taking less than an hour to reach Greenwich. The quickest way to Greenwich is by DLR train from London Bridge to Cutty Sark station, or by train from London Bridge or Cannon Street to Greenwich station. The closest London Underground station is North Greenwich on the Jubilee line, which is right next door to the O2.

When to Get There

Greenwich is busiest during the peak summer months (July and August), when you might want to avoid weekends if you don’t like crowds. Popular times to visit are during the Greenwich Summer Festival (July to August), Greenwich Music Time Festival (July), Greenwich and Docklands International Festival (June to July), and Greenwich Christmas Market (November to December).

O2 Arena

North Greenwich is home to the huge O2 arena and entertainment complex, housed in the former Millennium Dome. As well as hosting some of London’s biggest music concerts and sporting events, the O2 has a cinema, bowling, and a number of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Thrill-seekers enjoy the Up at the O2 experience, which offers spectacular views as you walk along the O2’s roof.

London SE10, England

Free

From $ 16

Glastonbury

Since the now-legendary Glastonbury Festival began making headlines back in the 1970s, the small Somerset town of Glastonbury has become synonymous with its self-named music festival, now the world’s biggest greenfield festival, drawing more than 175,000 revellers to the small town each year. The new-age festivities aren’t the town’s only draw, though – Glastonbury remains a lively place to visit at all times of the year, with a cluster of historic buildings and a traditional weekly market.

Glastonbury’s star attraction is the historic Glastonbury Abbey, founded in the 7th-century and becoming one of England’s most important monasteries in the Middle Ages, as well as allegedly being the burial site of King Arthur. Additional highlights include the 525-foot sacred hill of Glastonbury Tor, home to the ruins of St Michael’s church; the ancient Chalice Well and the fascinating Somerset Rural Life Museum.

Practical Info

Glastonbury is located in Somerset in southwest England, approximately 130 miles from London.

Glastonbury, United Kingdom, England

From $ 52

Hardknott Roman Fort

Built under Hadrian's rule in the second century, Hardknott Roman Fort (initially named Mediobogdum by the Romans) is a must-do for history buffs who find themselves in the English Lake District. More than just a simple amass of old stones, the archaeological remains are 374 feet (114 meters) long and well-marked, allowing visitors to clearly identify the ancient headquarters building, the commandant’s house and the bath house. The parade ground site still lies beside the fort and is now considered to be the finest surviving example in the Western Empire.

Thanks to its remote location high in the mountains of the Lake District, Hardknott Roman Fort boasts breathtaking panoramas of the national park. On clear days, the view stretches all the way to the Isle of Man and the Irish Sea. What used to be one of the loneliest outposts in the Roman Empire overlooks the River Esk in both upper and lower Eskdale. It was initially built to protect the busy and strategic Hardknott Pass, which was the main link between the coastal fort at Ravenglass and the Roman garrisons at Ambleside and Kendal.

Practical Info

The fort is located in the heart of the Lake District National Park. It can be visited from Liverpool and Manchester by car in two hours via the M6, the A591 and the A593. Visitors should be aware that Hardknott Pass is frequently referred to as one of the most-challenging and steepest drives in the UK, with a gradient of almost 20 degrees and several hairpin bends.

Eskdale, England

From $ 62

Houses of Parliament & Big Ben

Few landmarks epitomize central London as perfectly as Big Ben, the iconic clock tower that stands at the east end of the Houses of Parliament. Heralding the location of Great Britain's political nucleus in Westminster, Big Benâor the Elizabeth Tower, renamed in honor of the Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubileeâstands proud as a symbol of London and the striking centerpiece of the Thames waterfront. The Palace of Westminster, the home of the Houses of Parliament, is another historic monument, as behind the grand Gothic facade, politicians have dictated local laws since 1215, when King John's Magna Carta signified the birth of parliament in the United Kingdom.

The Basics

The most exciting ways to see the great clock face are from a capsule on the nearby London Eye Ferris wheel or on a Thames River cruise, both of which offer magnificent views of the 315-foot (96-meter) clock tower and the Neo-Gothic Palace of Westminster while allowing you to avoid the crowds that gather at Big Ben's base. The landmarks can be experienced at their most atmospheric on a night tour of London, when Big Ben is dramatically illuminated.

Travelers wanting to learn about British politics, with its complex system of monarchs, lords, and elected members of parliament, can arrange an official tour of the Houses of Parliament or even watch a debate from the public galleries. Big Ben, however, is only accessible to UK residents, who must request permission from their local member of parliament to visit. For everyone else, the clock tower is best admired from afar on a city tour that includes stops at other London attractions, such as Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London.

Things to Know Before You Go

Big Ben is visited on most half- and full-day tours of London, whether a walking, biking, or bus tour.
Take 10 minutes to admire the statues of Parliament Square, all of which depict famous political figures.
Guided tours of the Houses of Parliament run most Saturdays, and the public galleries are open when parliament is in sessionâtime your visit wisely to watch opposing political parties in fierce debate.

How to Get to Big Ben
Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are located on the north bank of the Thames River, easily accessible from the Westminster underground tube station, which is serviced by the Jubilee, Circle, and District lines. Alternatively, hop off at Waterloo station to wander along the vibrant South Bank past the London Eye, then walk across Westminster Bridge to Big Ben.

When to Get There

Holiday travelers can join the crowds to watch London's legendary New Year's Eve fireworks, which take place right in front of Big Ben and ignite the sky in a riot of color. Ensure you book tickets for the firework display well in advance to avoid disappointment and guarantee an unforgettable evening.

Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, England

Daily when parliament is in session

Â£14-Â£16.50 (adults)

From $ 13

Hampton Court Palace

The famous former residence of the infamous King Henry VIII, Hampton Court is one of the king’s two remaining palaces and one of the grandest castles in England, having once been planned to rival the Palace of Versailles in France. Today, visitors can explore the castle interior, which showcases two architectural styles (the Tudor palace of Henry VIII and the baroque palace of William III), stroll through its massive hedge maze, see the historic tennis court, and view the largest grape vine in the world. Don’t miss the State Apartments’ royal bedrooms and galleries, the Tudor kitchens, Chapel Royal, or the medieval Great Hall, which has been in continuous use for more than 450 years.

The Basics

The Hampton Court Palace is commonly visited from London either independently or as part of a royal palaces tour and paired with a stop at Windsor Castle. Book priority entrance tickets to skip the line and spend more time exploring the grounds, or, for more context, choose a guided historical tour that walks you through the palace and formal gardens. Bike tours of the Hampton Court Palace grounds are another popular options.

Things to Know Before You Go

Helpful red-coated guides can be found all over the grounds offering interesting information about the castle (while making sure you keep your hands off the valuable furnishings).
Book an advance ticket with timed entry to avoid lines.
Free Wi-Fi access is available.
Much of the palace is wheelchair accessible, and disabled visitors may bring a caregiver free of charge.
Hampton Court Palace entry is included in the London Pass.

How to Get There

Hampton Court Palace is set in the royal borough of Richmond upon Thames, on the River Thames and a short distance from London in the town of Surrey. It’s accessible by public transport—Hampton Court Station is a 30-minute train ride away from Waterloo Station in central London. From the train station, it’s a short walk across the Hampton Court Bridge over the River Thames to the palace.

When to Get There

The palace is open daily from 10am to 4:30pm, with extended hours until 6pm in summer. Arriving earlier in the day or taking a private tour will help you avoid crowds.

Royal Palaces of England

For a glimpse at royal life and customs in settings truly fit for royalty, go beyond Hampton Court and visit the royal residences at Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace in London, as well as nearby Windsor Castle.

East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU, England

Daily 10am–6pm (until 4:30pm in winter)

£15.90 (adults)

From $ 13

Holy Trinity Church

With a history dating back more than 1,000 years and a serene setting on the banks of the River Avon, the Holy Trinity Church has long been renowned as one of England’s most beautiful and most visited parish churches. An architectural highlight of Stratford-upon-Avon, the Grade I listed church dates in part from the 13th century and is celebrated for its fine Clopton Chapel, Victorian stained glass windows and series of 26 ornately decorated misericords, as well as a first edition 1611 King James Bible on display.

The lavish interiors are impressive enough, but for most visitors the main draw to the Holy Trinity is its connection with William Shakespeare. The iconic playwright was famously born in Stratford-upon-Avon and was both christened and buried at the church. Visitors can view Shakespeare’s Grave for a small fee, as well as the graves of Anne Hathaway, Dr John Hall and his wife Susanna, and Thomas Nash.

Practical Info

Holy Trinity Church is located on the banks of the River Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon and is open Mon-Sat from 9.00am – 5.00pm and Sun 12.30pm – 5.00pm. Entrance to the church is free, but donations of £2 are required to visit Shakespeare's grave.

Holy Trinity Church Parish office, Old Town, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 6BG, England

Mon-Sat: 9.00am – 5.00pm, Sun: 12.30pm – 5.00pm.

Free; donations of £2 to visit Shakespeare’s grave.

From $ 19

Heathrow Airport (LHR)

As Europe’s largest airport, London Heathrow (LHR) serves more than 70 million air travel passengers annually. It’s the UK’s busiest airport, serving as the gateway to London for most of the world and offering currency exchange facilities, accommodation, luggage storage, and VIP lounges.

The Basics

There are many airport transfer services in and out of Heathrow, whether you’re headed into London or elsewhere in the UK. Direct transfers, both private and shared, are available to Southampton Port, Oxford, Bristol, Cambridge, or straight to your London hotel. Options depend on your available time and preferred level privacy. Book transfers in advance to ensure on-time pickup.

Things to Know Before You Go

The enormous airport can seem overwhelming to first-time visitors, so leave plenty of time to check in and pass through security or collect your luggage.
Showers and children’s play areas are available at each terminal.
The airport offers an abundance of bars, restaurants, and tax-free shops, plus free Wi-Fi and charging stations.

How to Get There

Heathrow Airport is located 20 miles (32 kilometers) west of central London and is connected by public transport, taxi, and private transfer to the city. Public transport to the terminals runs from 5am and 11:45pm. The Heathrow Express (20 minutes) and Heathrow Connect (30 minutes) trains depart from and arrive to London Paddington. Other options include the London Underground (Piccadilly Line, about 50 minutes from central London) and the night bus (about 90 minutes from Trafalgar Square). Private drivers and direct London airport transfers are the best bet for anyone wanting to avoid public transit.

When to Get There

As Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world, you’ll want to ensure enough time ahead of your scheduled departure. It’s a good idea to arrive at least three hours in advance for an international departure.

Benefits of Private Airport Transfers at Heathrow

Delays are unfortunately common at such a massive airport, but booking an airport transfer reduces some of the worry you’d otherwise have about a late arrival. When you book online and share your flight information, drivers typically track your flight. They also reduce travel stress by helping with luggage and offering the potential for hotel pickup or drop-off.

Greater London TW6, United Kingdom, England

From $ 17

Golden Hinde

Few historic ships can boast of voyages as great as the Golden Hinde, whose round-the-globe expedition between 1577 and 1580, captained by Sir Francis Drake, was one of the great journeys of the Elizabethan era.

Today, a full sized reconstruction of the iconic ship, originally called the ‘Pelican’ and renamed the Golden Hinde mid-voyage, stands at Bankside along the River Thames, offering visitors the chance to step onboard and learn about the galleon’s great adventures. As well as peeking into the cabins and engine room, costumed actors and interactive tours allow visitors to discover the life of a Tudor sailor, and it’s even possible to help raise the anchor and fire the guns.

Practical Info

The Golden Hinde is located on the south bank of the River Thames, close to London Bridge.

1, Pickfords Wharf, Clink Street, London, England

10am – 5.30pm daily, except during private events

Tours start at: £6 Adults, £4.50 Children, £18 Family of 4

From $ 6

Highclere Castle

A neo-Gothic masterpiece, Highclere Castle is best known for doubling as Downton Abbey in the much-loved TV series of the same name. The turreted, sandstone mansion was created by Sir Charles Barry, the architect behind England’s Houses of Parliament. The site upon which it stands has been in the hands of the Carnarvon family since the 17th century, and the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon now welcome the public to explore the lavishly decorated interior, the Egyptian Exhibition, and the 1,000-acre (405-hectare) Capability Brown–designed grounds.

The Basics

Highclere Castle is a popular day trip from London. You can go as part of a group tour by bus, in a small-group tour by minivan, or on a private tour by luxury vehicle or even black cab. Afternoon tea is offered in the castle’s tea rooms in the coach house, though you must book in advance. Some full-day tours from London incorporate stops at other Downton filming locations, such as the charming Cotswolds village of Bampton, which is used to portray Downton in the show. Other tours include non-Downton destinations such as Oxford, home to the esteemed university.

Things to Know Before You Go

Day trips from London typically last between eight and 11 hours.
Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothes.
Most organized tours include guided visits around the house.
Most areas of the castle—namely the ground floor and the Egyptian Exhibition—are accessible to wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Trains from London Paddington station depart approximately every hour and bring passengers to Newbury station, situated about 5 miles (8 kilometers) north of the castle. From Newbury, it’s a 15-minute taxi ride to Highclere Castle. Newbury-bound National Express buses depart from London Victoria.

When to Get There

Highclere Castle is open to the public for about 65 days a year: for two weeks around Easter, during the two May bank holiday weekends, and from early July to early September. Entry is ticketed, with morning and afternoon time slots available. Tickets sell out quickly so be sure to book well in advance. Walk-up tickets are also sold at Highclere; arrive early to ensure you get one.

Special Events at Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle hosts various seasonal events throughout the year including special castle tours, concerts, and parties. During the holiday season, the estate is the setting for festive fairs and carol services. In summer, the castle’s events program includes garden parties, during which guests don period dress and enjoy picnics and Pimm’s on the grounds.

Highclere Park, Newbury, West Berkshire RG20 9RN, Highclere, London, England

Hours vary by season.

Varies

From $ 104

Handel House Museum

Devoted to the life and times of one of London’s most legendary composers, the Handel House Museum is a must for fans of classical music. Housed in the grand Georgian town house where George Frideric Handel lived from 1723 to 1759, the museum has been restored in period style, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life of the great Baroque composer.

Visitors can learn about Handel’s rise to prominence, from his early life in Germany to composing for the British Royal family; admire an eclectic collection of instruments, Handel portraits, manuscripts, and personal effects; and discover the origins of masterpieces such as 'Messiah', 'Zadok the Priest', and 'Music for the Royal Fireworks', all composed at the house.

The museum also serves as a live music venue, regularly hosting concerts, lectures and other music-themed activities.

Practical Info

The Handel House Museum is located in Mayfair, central London, and is open from Monday to Saturday from 11am to 6pm. Adult admission is £10.

Did You Know? Brook Street’s musical heritage doesn’t end with Handel. The flat across the street at 23 Brook Street recently opened as a museum devoted to its former resident – music icon Jimi Hendrix.

25 Brook St, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom W1K 4HB, England

Mon-Sat 11am-6pm

Adult £10, Child £5

From $ 13

Harrods

Built by Charles Henry Harrod in 1834 and now owned by Qatar Holdings, Harrods is London’s largest and most iconic department store. With 330 different departments spread over seven floors, it’s a top choice for shoppers, selling everything from luxury souvenirs and gourmet British foods to renowned designer brands and stylish homewares.

The Basics

A popular tourist attraction, Harrods often gets included as part of London sightseeing tours. For more time to explore, opt to visit on a hop-on hop-off bus tour or book a VIP experience with an independent shopping tour and your own private driver. While you’re there, take a ride on the opulent Egyptian Escalator, pay a visit to the Princess Diana memorial, or indulge in a decadent afternoon tea at The Georgian.

Things to Know Before You Go

Customer services include personal shopping, a wellness clinic, and bespoke tailoring.
Large bags, rucksacks, and umbrellas must be left at the store’s Left Luggage desk.
ATMs, free Wi-Fi, and a range of bars, restaurants, and tea rooms are available on-site.
Harrods is fully wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Harrods is located on Brompton Road in the upmarket Knightsbridge neighborhood of West London, a short walk from the designer shops of Sloane Street. To get there by tube, take the Piccadilly line to Knightsbridge station.

When to Get There

Harrods is open daily all year round. Weekday mornings tend to be quietest, and while it can get busy during weekends and school holidays, that’s when to go to enjoy in-store events, pop-up shops, and celebrity appearances. During the festive season, the store hosts a spectacular Santa's Grotto and some of London’s most impressive window displays.

Shopping at Harrods

The sprawling department store lives up to its motto: “Omnia Omnibus Ubique—All Things For All People, Everywhere.” In addition to clothing, jewelry, accessories, and cosmetics by designers such as Dolce and Gabbana, Burberry, Balenciaga, Chanel, and Estée Lauder, Harrods also has a specialized range of tea, luxury accessories, cosmetics, furniture, books, and its own line of souvenirs.

87-135 Brompton Road, London SW1X 7XL, England

Mon - Sat 10am - 9pm, Sun 11:30am - 6pm

Free

From $ 27

Hampstead Heath

Often losing out to the grandeur of London’s Royal Parks, Hampstead Heath remains the underdog of the city’s tourist attractions, but Londoners flock to enjoy the park’s unkempt charms.

The park encompasses 791 acres of natural countryside, stretching from Hampstead to Highgate in North London and provides a change to the manicured gardens and pristine flowerbeds of the inner city. Here, kite flyers add a splash of color to the vast grasslands, dog walkers weave among shaded woodlands and the windswept meadows have provided the backdrop to films like Notting Hill, as well as inspiring C.S.Lewis’ famous novel ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’. The most famous spot on the heath is the iconic Parliament Hill, where the incredible panoramic view from the summit is renowned as one of the capital’s best lookouts. The view takes in the entire London skyline, with the Thames River, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Shard and Buckingham Palace all visible.

A number of walks run through the Heath and one of the most popular is the walk between Parliament Fields Hill and North London’s other famed peak, Primrose Hill. Make sure you stop along the way at the grand Kenwood House with its beautiful 18th-century gardens and the renowned Highgate Cemetery, where Karl Marx is famously buried. The park’s public swimming pools also draw in the masses, with the three ponds crammed with sun-seekers in the summer months and hosting freezing-cold swim-a-thons in the winter months.

Spaniards Road, London NW3 7JJ, England

From $ 52

Green Park

The smallest of London’s network of eight Royal parks, Green Park is located in Westminster, between Hyde Park to the west and St. James Park to the east. The 40-acre (16-hectare) green space is dissected by the Mall on one side and Constitution Hill on the other, right next to Buckingham Palace. It’s a peaceful triangle, known for mature plane and lime trees as well as a number of memorials, statues, and fountains.

The Basics

Its proximity to Buckingham Palace makes Green Park a popular destination for visitors looking to escape the bustle of the city. The park is home to memorials honoring Canadian, African, Indian, and Caribbean soldiers killed in the two World Wars. The park is on the path of the 7-mile (11-kilometer) Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk. It’s also included on a number of hop-on hop-off bus tours, and royal and historical tours of the city.

Things to Know Before You Go

Deck chairs are available to rent from March to October during daylight hours.
There are two refreshment kiosks in Green Park located at Ritz Corner and Canada Gate.
The park is wheelchair accessible.
Green Park has been used backdrop to a number of films, including The Importance of Being Earnest.

How to Get There

The closest underground stations include the Green Park and Hyde Park Corner stations, and the park is also served by multiple bus lines. There are no parking facilities near the park.

When to Get There

The park is open all day, year-round. Upwards of a million daffodils bloom in the park in the spring, tuning Green Park a brilliant yellow for a brief few weeks.

Royal Gun Salutes

Royal Gun Salutes, which mark special occasions like the Queen’s birthday and state visits, are fired from Green Park. Salutes are normally fired at midday and include 41 rounds. Public attendance is permitted, and a full schedule can be found online.

London, England

From $ 27

Her Majesty's Theatre

There has been a theater on the site of Her Majesty's since 1705, but this incarnation opened in 1897 as a fine example of Victorian civic architecture. Today, the theater is part of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Really Useful Group of entertainment venues, including six theaters throughout London's razzle-dazzle West End.

With a capacity of 1,100 in the main auditorium, Her Majesty's Theatre has been showing the fabulous Phantom of the Opera musical—known for its spectacular stage sets and Lloyd Webber's opera-lite score—since its world premiere in 1986, notching up a record-breaking run of more than 12,000 performances. The show plays to packed audiences nightly.

The theater was given a thorough overhaul in 2014, with many of its paintings cleaned and the stalls re-gilded. The 2.5-hour Phantom of the Opera performance runs Monday through Saturday at 7:30pm, with matinees on Thursday and Saturday at 2:30pm. A variety of afternoon tea and dinner packages are available.

Practical Info

Haymarket, London SW1Y 4QL. Ticket prices range from £21.50 to £125. Shows Mon–Sat 7:30pm; Thurs & Sat also 2:30pm. There’s underground car parking in Trafalgar Square (£11.50 daily congestion charge applies on weekdays) and the nearest tube station is Piccadilly Circus on the Piccadilly or Bakerloo lines.

Haymarket, London SW1Y 4QL, England

Shows Mon–Sat 7:30pm; Thurs & Sat also 2:30pm

Varies

From $ 84

HMS Belfast

The World War II warship HMS Belfast, moored on the south bank of the Thames, is an iconic symbol of British history. Discover interactive displays and preserved spaces across the vessel’s nine decks and learn about life on the naval ship, as well as its role in D-Day, the Arctic Convoys, and the Battle of North Cape.

The Basics

The ship has become a fixture of the Thames landscape, with river cruises offering premier views of the vessel. For a closer look, skip the lines with a prebooked ticket, leaving plenty of time to explore the ship’s quarters, including the engine rooms, sick bays, and flag deck. Some city passes offer access to HMS Belfast along with other top city attractions, while flexible hop-on hop-off tours allow time to explore at your own pace.

Things to Know Before You Go

HMS Belfast is a must-see for visitors interested in Britain’s naval history and has plenty to entertain families.
Some tours include entrance fees as part of the package; otherwise, there is a charge to enter.
Deck areas are accessible for wheelchairs, with lift access from the gangway. Below deck is inaccessible due to the preserved nature of the ship.
Free handheld audio guides are available for all visitors.

How to Get There

The ship is moored on the south bank of the Thames, just a few minutes’ walk from London Bridge station. It is also easily accessed by river boat, with London Bridge City Pier next door.

When to Get There

HMS Belfast is open daily throughout the year, except Christmas. The ship is popular with school trips, but you can miss the crowds with a morning or later afternoon visit. Admire panoramic views of the city from the flag deck, with winter offering a particularly festive vista.

Imperial War Museum

HMS Belfast is operated by Imperial War Museum, a museum group with five branches, two in London. The IWM London, about 2 miles (3 kilometers) from HMS Belfast, houses a Holocaust Exhibition as well as a number of war artifacts from across the century, while the underground Churchill War Rooms on King Charles Street provide insight into wartime London.

The Queens Walk, Tooley Street, London SE1 2JH, England

Varies

From $ 16

Household Cavalry Museum

Located in the heart of London, the Household Division’s headquarters looks back on hundreds of years of tradition and rich history. But the integrated Household Cavalry Museum isn’t just any old dusty exhibition; it’s an actual workplace that provides insight about real people doing their real jobs – jobs that involve longstanding ceremonies that haven’t been changed in over 350 years. The Household Cavalry is responsible for guarding the queen on various occasions in the United Kingdom and also for serving as part of the British Army around the world in vehicles. As a military museum, this site offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the ceremonial duties and working role of the British Army’s senior regiment, the Household Cavalry.

Visitors can observe the troopers working in the original 18th-century stables on site (which are only separated from the museum by a glass screen), learn how the horses and their riders are trained and discover the long history of the queen’s mounted bodyguards through a collection of pageantry, uniforms, instruments, awards and personal accounts. If timed right, the enriching experience includes the famous guard change and inspection ceremonies.

Practical Info

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in April through October, and until 5 p.m. from November through March. The Changing of the Queen’s Life Guard ceremony takes place at 10 a.m. on Sunday and at 11 a.m. every other day of the week. Entrance costs £7 for adults and £5 for children, seniors and students. The closest tube stations are Charing Cross, Embankment and Westminster.

Horse Guards Ave, London SW1A 2AX, England

April-October Daily 10am-6pm; November-March 10am-5pm

Adults £7 Children/Students/Seniors £5

From $ 10

Historic Dockyard

Fans of British TV will probably recognize Chatham's Historic Dockyard from shows like Mr Selfridge, Sherlock Holmes and Call the Midwife, and the vast naval complex is equally impressive both on and off screen. The 80-acre site is now an award-winning maritime attraction, including museums, restored vessels and exhibitions, and offers a fascinating

insight into British naval history.

The star attractions of the dockyard are a series of three historic warships, the Victorian-era HMS Gannett, the WWII destroyer HMS Cavalier; and the cold war submarine HMS Cavalier, and visitors can get a glimpse into life at sea as they explore on-board. Additional highlights include the historic Ropery and Smithery; a collection of RNLI lifeboats; the aptly named BIG Space, which showcases the largest of the dockyard’s artifacts; and a series of exhibitions focusing on the dockyard’s history, its use by the Royal Navy and its role in WWII.

Practical Info

The Historic Dockyard is located on the east bank of the River Medway in central Chatham and is open daily from 10am to 4pm in winter or 6pm in summer. Adult admission is £24.

Church Lane, Chatham, Kent ME4 4TE, England

Daily 10am-4pm (winter) or 6pm (summer)

Adult £24, Child £14

From $ 32

Hill Top Farm

Beatrix Potter’s love affair with the English Lake District is practically as famous as her children’s tales. Her numerous and extensive holidays in the bucolic North West England region included stays at the Hill Top Farm, which she bought in 1905. The celebrated author spent as much time as she could in her beloved house, where she found inspiration in the farm and neighboring villages. She even used the exterior of Hill Top Farm as the setting of some of her original tales such as The Tale of Samuel Whiskers.

As a major and longtime supporter of the National Trust, it was natural for Potter to bequest the six-room farmhouse and its flourishing grounds to the organization upon her death, with the condition that it be kept exactly as she left it, including china, furniture and decorative items. It has since been open to the public, with over 1.5 million visitors hailing from around the world since 1946.

The traditional cottage was built in the early 17th century. It is now the most famous literary shrine in the Lake District and offers an immersive, time-capsule type of look at how Beatrix Potter led her creative life within its walls.

Practical Info

The farmhouse is located near Sawrey, which can be accessed in less than two hours from Liverpool and Manchester via the M6, the A590 and B5285. A timed ticket system is in operation in order to avoid overcrowding, and tickets cannot be booked in advance. Visitors should consider visiting early in the morning to secure tickets, as they sell out frequently.

Near Sawrey, Hawkshead, Ambleside, England

Adult: £10, Child: £5, Family: £25

From $ 65

Harvard House

With its gabled roof, oak beams and elaborately carved façade, the Harvard House is undeniably attractive, and it’s long been touted as one of Stratford-upon-Avon's most beautiful buildings. The Elizabethan-era town house was built in 1596 by local businessman Thomas Rogers and is now a Grade I listed property, remarkably preserved and decorated in period style.

The Harvard House takes its name from Rogers’ grandson, John Harvard, who went on to found America’s famous Harvard University. Although he never lived in the property, the house is none-the-less an intriguing link between Harvard’s family and William Shakespeare, who lived just down the street.

Today, the house is preserved as a museum and offers a fascinating glimpse into Elizabethan life. Visitors can explore the three floors, where exhibitions chronicle the property’s history and life in Elizabethan and Tudor times, including fun hands-on activities for children.

Practical Info

The Harvard House is located at 26 High Street in central Stratford-upon-Avon and is open daily from 11am to 4pm in winter, and 10am-5pm in summer. Admission passes cost £16.50 for adults or £9.90 for children, and includes entrance to Hall's Croft, Harvard House, Shakespeare's Birthplace and Shakespeare's Grave.

26 High Street, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6AU, England

Nov-March daily 11am-4pm, Mar-Nov daily 10am-5pm.

Pass for Hall's Croft, Harvard House, Shakespeare's Birthplace & Grave: Adult £16.50, Child £9.90

From $ 28

Helmsley

With its stone-brick houses crawling with ivy and cobbled pavements brimming with flowers, the lively market town of Helmsley is among Yorkshire’s prettiest. Located on the cusp of the North York Moors National Park, the historic village makes a popular pit stop for those exploring the park’s natural wonders, with its traditional tearooms and charming pubs welcoming a steady stream of day-trippers.

Helmsley’s top attraction is the imposing ruin of the 12th- century Helmsley Castle, home to the magnificent 5-acre Helmsley Walled Gardens, but additional highlights include the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey and Byland Abbey; the 300-acre Duncombe Park, famous for its Birds of Prey reserve; the Helmsley Arts Centre; and the Cleveland Way National Trail, which starts close to town.

Practical Info

Helmsley is located in the North York Moors National Park, approximately 25 miles north of York.

Helmsley, North Yorkshire, England

From $ 58