ACTIVITIES
Beaches
The United Kingdom has over 12 kilometers of beautiful beaches. What’s more, no matter where one stays the closest beach is not further than two hours drive. The British beaches lack tropical charm, however, they are beautiful and, what is even more important, one of the most clean beaches in the European Union. About 100 UK’s beaches were awarded the Blue Flag. The most pristine beaches are said to be located in Wales.
Sightseeing
The UK can boast hundreds of medieval castles, fortified manors, historic houses and other relics of British rich and complicated history. Many of them are in ruins but also a plenty of them have been beautifully restored. However, there is so much more besides castles to be discovered in this country of diverse cultures and traditions. The most famous tourist spots in London include: the 135-meters high London Eye from which one can admire the entire capital, the Buckingham and Windsor Palaces and the Tower which hosted such famous prisoners as Elizabeth I of England, Anne Boleyn, William Wallece, king Henry VI, sir Thomas More and Thomas Cromwell. Other must-see sights in London include the Globe Theater, the Big Ben and famous bridges: Waterloo, Tower and Millennium Bridges. One of the most mysterious places in Great Britain is the Stonehenge.
Hiking/Walking
Hiking is one of the best ways to discover Britain, its beautiful countryside and unique local pubs. There are numerous routes and trails leading through hills and valleys, with historical evidence along the way. The most popular hiking and walking routes include: the Thames Path (which follows the river from beginning to end), the Pennie Way (430 km long from Edale in the English Midlands to the Scottish Borders) and the Offa’s Dyke Path (from the Sedbury Cliffs near the Wales-England border to the North Wales).
Skiing
Snow is rather a rarity in Britain but it is, however, possible to practice winter sports there. Top ski destinations include Glenshee, Lecht and Cairn Gorm in Scotland, Helvellyn and Yad Moss in England. On some slopes artificial snow is sprayed if necessary.
Water sports
Britain boasts over 12 kilometers of coastline as well as dozens of rivers and lakes what makes it a great destination for water sports with endless possibilities – diving, wakeboarding, jet skiing, yachting, sailing, canoeing, kayaking and many others. The best conditions for surfing are on the southwest coast of England. For more extreme experience one should try white water rafting.
Fishing
A license for sea fishing is not required in the UK. However, fishing for salmon, trout and freshwater fish in England and Wales requires a rod licence. It can be bought at any post office or online. It is illegal to use crayfish as a bait as well as using spear while fishing for freshwater fish. In Scotland, salmon and trout fishing is not allowed on Sundays.
Rock climbing
Britain has numerous challenging climbs and various types of rock what makes it a great destination for rock climbing. In Scotland one should go for Ben Nevis Skye, in Wales there is great climbing in Mid Wales and Snowdonia, while the best peaks in England are located in the Peak District and the Lake District.
Nightlife
Cities in the UK have vibrant nightlife with London, Manchester, Liverpool and Glasgow being most lively. The most typical, traditional place to spend the evening while visiting Britain is a pub where one can drink a lager in the unique atmosphere. Pubs are open until 11pm and then those who do not want to end their evening may go to a nightclub or a bar. For those who wish to spend their time in a more peaceful atmosphere there are dozens of possibilities such as jazz club, opera or cabaret.
Others
Besides the activities mentioned above Britain can offer much more for visitors. Why not explore the island on a bike away from the busy and crowded tourist routes? See dolphins in Scotland, try playing cricket or enjoy skydiving? Possibilities in Britain are endless and everyone can find something that will please their taste.
