LONDON Must-sees in this multi-cultural capital include the London Eye with panoramic views of the city, the Royal Botanical Kew Gardens and the world famous Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. There's Old Masters at the National Gallery & Tate Modern, and ancient relics at the British Museum. Get some fresh air at Hyde Park or the Hampstead Heath. Don't forget to taste London's diverse cuisine from China Town and Soho to Brick Lane for a curry, and wash it down with a pint in a good old London pub. With over 30,000 shops and stores to choose from, as well as an increasing reputation in the fashion world, shoppers will not be disappointed.
BRIGHTON Less than an hour from London by train, the city is a popular seaside destination with its cultural sites and the added benefit of the fresh sea air. Visit the exotic Royal Pavilion, home of King George IV, notable for its Indian architecture and Oriental interior design. Stroll along the Victorian Pier and the beachfront with its bars, restaurants, nightclubs and amusement arcades. For shopping, try the bohemian North Laine.
CARDIFF Cardiff has developed a cool reputation in the last few years as an ideal family destination. A recent extensive re-development has given the city world-class sporting and entertainment facilities. Add to this excellent shopping, diverse restaurants and plenty of art, history and culture. Highlights include the Wales Millennium Centre, National Gallery, and Cardiff Castle. If you want to find out more about the Welsh obsession with rugby, head to the Millennium Stadium.
BRISTOL Today, Bristol is one of the UK’s best short-break destinations. The city hits a high note with everyone from clubbers to culture vultures. See art, history and nature at the City Museum & Art Gallery, or take in a show at the opulent Bristol Old Vic Theatre. Clifton Suspension Bridge is a famous landmark, and the former ocean liner, the SS Great Britain, which is now in dry dock in Bristol. Take a stroll at Bristol Zoo Gardens, buy some ethnic food at St Nicholas Market and enjoy the nightlife along Corn Street.
LIVERPOOL The city is fast becoming one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations. Famous as the birthplace of The Beatles, Liverpool has more museums, theatres and galleries than any other UK city outside London. The city is nominated European Capital of Culture for 2008 with music, art and cultural events going during the whole year. Visit the former homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, Penny Lane and the Beatles Story. If nightlife is your thing, head to the famous Albert Dock with its tempting selection of cafes, pubs and restaurants.
YORK York is one of the most preserved historical cities in England. Famous for the magnificent York Minster, the city is also the location of world’s biggest railway museum and a wealth of preserved medieval buildings and streets, such as the Shambles. As a city of festivals, York boasts a year-round calendar of music, antique, food & drink events. Theatre lovers can catch a show at the Theatre Royal or enjoy a concert at the Grand Opera House.
EDINBURGH Owing to its rugged setting and vast collection of Medieval and Georgian architecture, Edinburgh is often considered one of the most picturesque cities in Great Britain. Walk the Royal Mile, visit World Heritage Site, Edinburgh Castle, and above all experience the spirit of Scotland. Enjoy the art at the National Gallery and volcanic eruptions at Our Dynamic Earth science centre.
