England - attractions - Travel Guide

Castle Keep and New Castle
Originally known as Monkchester, Newcastle only got its present name when Robert Curthose, son of the infamous William the Conqueror, built his 'New Castle' on the site of the Roman Fort, Pons Aelius in 1080. Used as a point of defence, the Castle was originally built of wood and timber, but was later rebuilt in stone and today, visitors can explore the remains of the Castle, as well as the Castle Keep built later on the same site by Henry II.
Telephone: (0)191 232 7938
Website: www.museums.ncl.ac.uk/keep
Transport:
Opening times: 10am Monday to Saturday and 12pm on Sunday, last admission 4.15pm, close 5pm. Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

Barber Institute of Fine Arts
Praised by The Observer as 'one of the finest small art galleries in Europe', the vivid red walls of the enchanting Barber Institute of Fine Arts are adorned with some of the most celebrated art from the 13th to the 20th century. Browsing the robust artworks, visitors are treated to the timeless talents of the old masters and modern pioneers such as Monet, Manet, Gauguin, Van Gogh and Degas. Offering a fascinating collection of paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures, history enthusiasts can also venture into Byzantine times at the coin gallery which hosts one of Europe's finest collections of Byzantine coins. The Barber Institute's Gallery Shop is a worthy stopover for some souvenirs and gallery related literature.
Telephone: (0)121 414 7333
Website: www.barber.org.uk
Transport: Bus 61, 62 and 63 leave the city centre for Corporation or Navigation Street, from where commuters can walk to the gallery. Trains leave New Street Station for University Station regularly and take approximately 10 minutes
Opening times: Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm. Closed on Good Friday, 24-26 December and New Year's Day

Madame Tussauds
Madame Tussauds is the most famous wax museum gallery in the world, with more than 400 life-sized models of stars, famous politicians, royals and sportsmen, as well as the most infamous criminals the world has known. Inside the Museum the 'Spirit of London' ride will take you through the city's history, introducing you to those figures that have shaped the London of today, while The Chamber of Horrors challenges visitors to enter and be terrified. Also at the site is Tussaud's Auditorium, one of the biggest in the world, ready to amaze visitors with its views of the universe.
Telephone: (0)870 999 0046
Website: www.madame-tussauds.com
Transport: Baker Street underground station, or buses 13, 18, 27, 30, 74, 82, 113, 139 and 274
Opening times: Off-peak, open daily 9.30am to 5.30pm. Peak, open daily 9am to 6pm.

Tower of London
The Tower of London is perhaps as famous for its traditions as its imposing structure. It is guarded by a special band of Yeoman Warders, known as Beefeaters, and dotted with several large, black birds Â– the Ravens. Legend has it that if the Ravens ever leave the Tower, a great tragedy will befall England, and to this day the birds are protected by Royal decree. The Tower's history dates back to the 11th century, and each new Monarch has played a role in its growth and development. It also houses Britain's crown jewels, a spectacular display of some of the world's finest gems and workmanship. The Tower is next to Tower Bridge, another famous London landmark.
Telephone: +44 (0)844 482 7777
Website: www.hrp.org.uk
Transport: Tower Hill tube station, or buses 15, 42,78 or 100
Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday, 9am to 5.30pm; Sunday to Monday, 10am to 5.30pm

. Houses of Parliament
Originally built for Edward the Confessor more than 1,000 years ago, the Houses of Parliament, or Palace of Westminster, remained the principal residence of Britain's monarchs for the next 400 years. Thereafter it became the administrative centre of the country. In 1834 the great fire burnt everything except Westminster Hall, and the present Gothic building was completed in the 1840s. It is perhaps most famous for the clock tower, St Stephens, which is commonly, but mistakenly called Big Ben, after the name of the bell inside. Although Parliament is closed to visitors during session, it is still a popular attraction to tourists for its exterior architecture.
Telephone: 0870 906 3773
Website: www.parliament.uk
Transport: Westminster underground station
Opening times: Open during summer recess, see the website for details.

Tate Modern
Housed in the former Bankside Power Station, which has been transformed by Swiss Architects Herzog & de Meuron into a spectacular new modern building, the Tate Modern is Britain's new National Museum of Modern Art. It showcases an exhaustive collection from 1900 to the present day, including works by DalÃ, Picasso, Matisse, Rothko and Warhol, as well as exhibitions by contemporary artists. There is also an exceptional roof cafÃ©, which affords spectacular views over London and an impressive gift shop.
Telephone: (0)20 7887 8888
Website: www.tate.org.uk
Transport: Southwark or Blackfriars underground stations, bus or the Tate Boat on the Thames
Opening times: Sunday to Thursday 10am to 6pm; Friday and Saturday 10am to 10pm. Closed 24, 25, 26 December

National Gallery
The National Gallery has an imposing and regal faÃ§ade stretching across the northern side of Trafalgar Square, and houses over 2,000 paintings from every major European school of painting from the 13th to the 19th century.

It was opened in 1938 at its present location, which was chosen for its situation between London's wealthier West End and poorer East End, as a 'gallery for all'.
Telephone: (0)20 7747 2885
Website: www.nationalgallery.org.uk
Transport: Charing Cross rail station, or Charing Cross, Leicester Square and Embankment underground stations. Numerous buses also service Trafalgar Square
Opening times: Daily 10am to 6pm; Wednesday until 9pm. Closed on 1 January, 24, 25 and 26 December

. British Museum
With more than 6,000 historical objects from all around the globe, the British Museum houses one of the world's greatest collections of antiquities, including the Parthenon Frieze or Elgin Marbles, the Rosetta Stone and the Roman Portland Vase dating from the 1st century AD. In 2000 the great court was reopened with an incredible glass roof covering two acres, and stairwells leading down to the Reading Room, which has been completely restored.
Telephone: (0)20 7323 8299 or (0)20 7323 8000
Website: www.britishmuseum.org
Transport: Russell Square underground station
Opening times: Saturday to Wednesday 10am to 5.30pm; Thursday and Friday 10am to 8.30pm; closed 24, 25 and 26 December, 1 January and Good Friday

London Eye
At 443ft (135m) tall, and weighing more than 250 double-decker buses, the London Eye is the most spectacular new addition to London's skyline. With incredible views of most of London's major attractions, and an opportunity to put the city's geography into perspective, it is a must see for all visitors. Originally conceived by architects David Marks and Julia Barfield as an entry for a millennium landmark competition, the project took six years and the expertise of hundreds of people from five European countries to turn it into a reality.
Telephone: (0)870 990 8883 or (0)870 5000 600 (bookings)
Website: www.ba-londoneye.com
Transport: Westminster, Waterloo or Embankment underground stations, or bus RV1, 211, 77 or 381
Opening times: Daily October to May 10am to 8pm, June and September 10am to 9pm, July and August 10am to 9.30pm

Shakespeare's Globe
Situated on the bank of the Thames, just 656ft (200m) from the site of Shakespeare's original Globe theatre, this fantastic recreation will transport visitors back to the time of the very first productions of Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet and Twelfth Night. The reconstruction took a total of 10 years to complete; at a cost of over Â£40 million and now houses a professional theatre company responsible for regular productions of Shakespeare's famous plays. Adjacent to the theatre is the Globe Exhibition, presenting graphic information about the reconstruction of the theatre and bringing to the fore the life and works of Shakespeare with interactive displays and live demonstrations.

Visits to the exhibition include a tour of the theatre.
Telephone: (0)20 7902 1400, or (0)20 7401 9919 (box office)
Website: www.shakespeares-globe.org
Transport: Mansion House underground station, with a ten-minute walk over the Millennium Bridge
Opening times: Theatre tour and exhibition: daily 10am to 5pm (10 October to 17 April), 9am to 12.30pm and 1pm to 5pm (18 April to 9 October). There is no access to the theatre during performances; visitors will then be taken to the Rose Theatre, Bankside's first playhouse

. Buckingham Palace and the Queen's Gallery
No visit to London would be complete without experiencing the pomp and ceremony of the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, but now visitors can actually get a peek inside during the annual summer opening of the State Rooms, and see some of the Queen's private art collection at the newly opened Queen's Gallery. Originally the town house of the Dukes of Buckingham, Buckingham Palace has served as the official London home of Britain's monarchs since 1837. Look to see whether the Royal Standard (not the Union Flag) is flying, which indicates that the Queen is in residence.
Telephone: (0)20 7766 7300
Website: www.royal.gov.uk
Transport: Green Park underground station
Opening times: Various, see website for details.

Harrods
Harrod's, which proprietor Mohamed Al Fayed calls his 'Palace in Knightsbridge', promises one of the most extravagant and luxurious shopping experiences in the world. With 22 restaurants, and a wide range of departments and services across its seven floors, it is easy to see why this is the shopping choice of London's social elite. With its prominent position on Brompton Road, Harrod's is hard to miss, especially at night, when the entire faÃ§ade is illuminated with a grand total of 11,500 light bulbs.
Telephone: (0)20 7730 1234
Website: www.harrods.com
Transport: Knightsbridge underground station
Opening times: Monday to Saturday 10am to 8pm, Sunday 11.30am to 6pm (Browsing only between 11.30am and 12pm on Sundays)

Camden Market
Camden Market is one of the most exciting shopping experiences London has to offer. Even if you're just browsing, the market is definitely worth a visit with its huge variety of food, antiques, bric-a-brac and clothing stalls, bars, nightspots and crowds of people ranging from the beautiful to the bizarre. Although the punk scene in London has gone underground, it still seems to flourish here, and you're sure to bump into some interesting characters.
Telephone:
Website: www.camdenlock.net
Transport: Camden Town and Chalk Farm underground stations. Numerous buses also pass Camden Lock
Opening times: The market is open daily from 10am to 6pm

Greenwich
This is the home of the Greenwich Meridian, which splits the globe into East and West and is responsible for setting the world clock on zero degrees latitude. Greenwich has a host of attractions including Greenwich Market with its variety of arts, crafts, food and bric-a-brac, Sir Christopher Wren's Royal Observatory and the National Maritime Museum. Greenwich Park is beautifully landscaped and is ideal for a picnic lunch. The famous tea-clipper, the Cutty Sark, was damaged by a fire in May 2007 and has been closed to the public.
Telephone: (0)870 608 2000
Website: www.greenwichengland.com
Transport: Docklands Light Railway to Greenwich, Cutty Sark underground stations, or a Thames boat
Opening times: Greenwich Market: daily 9am to 5:30pm; National Maritime Museum and Royal Observatory Greenwich: daily 10am to 5pm. Closed 24-26 December

. London Dungeon
Take a trip through London's dark and gruesome history, meet Jack the Ripper and see what became of his victims, or see the chaos and destruction caused by the great fire of London. The London Dungeon brings history's most notorious killers and evildoers back to life in an experience definitely not for the faint-hearted. Beware: some of the exhibitions have a nasty way of coming alive and jumping out at the unsuspecting visitor.
Telephone: (0)20 7403 7221
Website: www.thedungeons.com
Transport: London Bridge underground station
Opening times: Opening times vary throughout the year so visitors should check the official website. Closed on Christmas day

St Paul's Cathedral
The great dome of St Paul's Cathedral has been a distinctive landmark on the London skyline for centuries. Built in 1673 by Sir Christopher Wren, after the previous St Paul's was burnt to the ground during the Great Fire of London, it is the greatest of several cathedrals dedicated to St Paul that have occupied the site for more than 1,400 years. The crypt at St Paul's is one of the largest in Europe, and it houses more than 200 tombs, including those of Admiral Nelson, the Duke of Wellington and Wren himself. The Cathedral has hosted many significant ceremonies in London's history, including the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill, the marriage of Prince Charles and Lady Diana and most recently the Queen's Golden Jubilee.
Telephone: (0)20 7246 8357
Website: www.stpauls.co.uk
Transport: St Paul's underground station
Opening times: Monday to Saturday 8.30am to 4pm. Note that the Cathedral may be closed to visitors at any time due to special services or events, so it is always advisable to enquire beforehand

Piccadilly Circus
One of London's best known, but most overrated sights, Picadilly Circus is at the junction of Picadilly, Regent Street and Shaftesbury Avenue and is surrounded by neon advertising and fast-food restaurants. However with its Tube station, Picadilly Circus is a good starting point for shopping in the West End, being near to Jermyn Street, Saville Row and Bond Street. London's Theatreland is centred on Shaftsbury Avenue and Soho and China Town are also within easy walking distance.
Telephone:
Website:
Transport: Piccadilly Circus underground station
Opening times:

Stonehenge
No other site in England presents the viewer with such grandeur and mystery, nor sparks the imagination so much as this circle of stones in Wiltshire. Writers, adventurers, historians and conquerors have all tried to answer the question, 'Who built Stonehenge?' resulting in tales and fables of Druids, Merlin and King Arthur, ancient giants roaming the countryside and a highly evolved prehistoric race of men. Yet the question of who, or indeed what, managed to drag several 20-ton stones more than 240 miles (386km) from North Wales, across steep hills to be aligned with mathematical and astronomical precision 5,000 years ago remains unanswered.
Telephone: (0)1980 624 715
Website: www.stonehenge.co.uk
Transport: Stonehenge is just off the A303, 20 minutes from Salisbury
Opening times: Daily 9am to 7pm (June to August), 9.30am to 6pm (16 March to 31 May, and 1 September to 15 October), 9.30am to 4pm (16 October to 15 March), 10am to 4pm (Boxing Day and New Years Day). Closed 24 and 25 December

The Eden Project
The Eden Project's aim is to examine the ways in which human beings interact with their environment, with a special focus on the plant world, in order to develop new ways of sustainable development by spearheading new conservation methods. Owned by a charity called the Eden Trust, the project consists of several specially created conservatories, the largest in the world, built into a giant crater in Cornwall. The Eden Project is more than a theme park, as it presents visitors with an opportunity to explore the plant kingdom, and examine our dependence on it.
Telephone: (0)1726 811 911
Website: www.edenproject.com
Transport: Buses run daily from St Austell, Newquay, Falmouth and Truro; a combined bus/admission ticket can be purchased on the bus
Opening times: From 4 November till 16 March open Monday to Thursday from 10am to 4.30pm, Friday and Saturday till 9pm and until 6pm on Sunday. From 17 March till 3 November open daily from 10am to 6pm, with last entry at 4.30pm. Closed 24 and 25 December

Salisbury Cathedral
The city of Salisbury is dominated by the spire of its famous cathedral, the tallest in England at 404ft (123m). Started in 1220 the cathedral was completed by 1258, the Spire added a few years later.

Built to reflect the glory of God in stone and glass, this majestic and awe-inspiring church has been a setting for many great occasions over 775 years. The grounds of the cathedral contain many notable houses open to the public. Mompesson House is a perfectly preserved 18th century home and Malmesbury House was once the sanctuary for King Charles II, fleeing the Battle of Worcester in the 17th century.
Telephone:
Website: www.salisburycathedral.org.uk
Transport:
Opening times: Daily from 7.15am to 6.15pm. From 11 June to 24 August open till 7.15pm, except Sundays

. Warwick Castle
Warwick Castle's origins date back to before 1066, and although not used as a Royal residence, but rather as the seat of the Earls of Warwick, its history is tied inextricably to the throne through the influence held by the castle's lords. Today, the castle is owned by the Tussaud's Group, which has refurbished most of the original grounds, and used the castle as a setting for an historical wax pageant, which includes the 'Royal Weekend Party' and 'Kingmaker' attractions.
Telephone: (0)870 442 2000
Website: www.warwick-castle.co.uk
Transport: Bus and coach services from London and Stratford
Opening times: Daily 10am to 6pm (April to September), 10am to 5pm the rest of the year. Last admission 30 minutes before closing. Closed 25 December

Alton Towers
Alton Towers is the UK's premier theme park aimed at the thrill seeking young-at-heart and can be a welcome excursion for those who have overdosed on the culture and tranquillity of the Cotswolds. Rides with names such as 'Nemesis', 'Black Hole', Submission' and 'Rip Saw' are definitely not for the faint-hearted, but the park does cater for the whole family with an adventure land and farmyard for younger visitors. For those exhausted by the day's antics, Alton Towers operates its own Hotel, and there are plenty of spots to grab a bite to eat.
Telephone: (0)8705 204 060
Website: www.alton-towers.co.uk
Transport: Train to Alton Towers Station; bus or coach
Opening times: Most days 9.30am to 5.30pm; closed in winter until 1 April. The Waterpark is open daily 10am to 6pm and until 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays

University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge is one of the oldest in the world and is made up of 31 Colleges, each being an independent institution with its own property and income. The oldest College, Peterhouse, was founded in 1281 by the Bishops of Ely. Both Charles Darwin and John Milton were students at Christ's College, founded by the mother of Henry VII in 1505. The largest and perhaps most famous college is Trinity College which was founded by Henry VIII. The college's masterpiece is Christopher Wren's magnificent library where the likes of Sir Isaac Newton, Lord Byron, Tennyson and William Thackeray studied.

There are also many museums around the University but most visitors come here to walk around the wonderful buildings, take in the history and admire the wonderful architecture.
Telephone: 0871 226 8006 (Cambridge Visitor Information Centre)
Website: www.visitcambridge.org
Transport: All Colleges are within walking distance of the city centre
Opening times: The colleges and museums have different opening times, see website for details

. Roman Baths
The Romans were the first to capitalise on the only natural hot springs in Britain, but it is believed that they were a local attraction long before the building of Rome. These ancient baths were once considered the finest in the Roman Empire, but in the middle ages fell into disrepair. It was not until a visit by the ailing Prince George in 1702 that the baths once again became a popular healing destination. Over the course of the city's redevelopment in the late 18th century the Roman ruins were rediscovered and restored. Today visitors can see the seven ancient baths and view the Georgian splendour of the Pump House where the musty mineral waters can be sampled by the strong of stomach. The magnificent centrepiece is the Great Bath. Lined with lead and filled with hot spa water, it once stood in an enormous barrel-vaulted hall that rose to a height of 131ft (40m). For many Roman visitors this may have been the largest building they had ever entered in their life.
Telephone: (0)1225 477 785
Website: www.romanbaths.co.uk
Transport:
Opening times: Daily 9.30am to 5.30pm, last entry 4.30pm (January, February, November, December); 9am to 6pm, last entry 5pm (March to June, September and October); 9am to 10pm, last entry 9pm (July and August)

Building of Bath Museum
The fascinating story of Georgian Bath is encapsulated in the only museum in the city about the city. The Building of Bath Museum is the natural place to start a sightseeing expedition. It is housed in the Gothic Countess of Huntingdon's Methodist Chapel, built in 1765 and renovated in 1984 by the Bath Preservation Trust. Inside visitors are treated to a unique exhibition, which describes how Bath developed from a small provincial spa to the most fashionable resort in Georgian England. Using models, maps, paintings, reconstructions, live crafting demonstrations and hands-on exhibits, including a touch-screen computer, a visit to the museum is an informative and entertaining experience.
Telephone: (0)1225 333 895
Website: www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk/museums/bath
Transport: 10-15 minutes on foot from Bath bus and train station
Opening times: 10.30am until 5.00pm; last admission 4.30pm. Closes for winter.

Herschel Museum of Astronomy
Distinguished astronomer William Herschel used a telescope he built himself in this delightful Georgian townhouse to discover the planet Uranus in 1781, securing his place in history as one of the greatest astronomers of all time. His observations, and telescope constructions, doubled the known size of the solar system in his time. Visitors to the museum can view his workshop, the original kitchen, and the music room in the Herschel house, where William lived with his sister, Caroline, at the end of the 18th century.
Telephone: (0)1225 446 865
Website: www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk/museums/herschel
Transport:
Opening times: February to mid-December; 1pm to 5pm on weekdays (closed on Wednesdays), 11am to 5pm on Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays.

. Fashion Museum
Bath's comprehensive fashion museum brings alive the story of fashion over the last 400 years from the late 16th century to the present day. The huge collection is fetchingly displayed on hundreds of dummies, providing a chronological journey through changing styles over the centuries. Visitors can listen to an audio tour or take a conducted guided tour through the ages.
Telephone: (0) 1225 477173
Website: www.fashionmuseum.co.uk
Transport: The museum is easily reached on foot; otherwise Lansdown buses 2 and 9 from the city centre stop nearby. A round trip sightseeing bus stops at the adjacent Assembly Rooms
Opening times: Daily. March to October, 10.30am to 5pm; November to February, 10.30am to 4pm.

Jane Austen Centre
Bath's best-known resident, period novelist Jane Austen, is celebrated in this permanent exhibition which showcases her life and work. Bath was her home between 1801 and 1806 and her love and knowledge of the city is reflected in her novels Northanger Abbey and Persuasion, which are set in Georgian Bath.
Telephone: (0)1225 443 000
Website: www.janeausten.co.uk
Transport: Park & Ride bus to Queen Square (centre is close to the bus stop). The Round the city sightseeing buses stop outside the centre
Opening times: Daily 9.45am to 5.30pm (summer) and 11am to 4.30pm (winter).

Bodleian Library
Chief among Oxford's many academic and architectural attractions is the unique Bodleian library, which is spread throughout several buildings across the city. The central core of this collection of buildings is set in Radcliffe Square and includes the historic Duke Humfrey's Library, dating from the 15th century, and the gothic Divinity School with its magnificent vaulted ceiling, which is open to the public. Only members can use the reading rooms of this library, which contains a copy of every book printed in Britain since 1610, and no books are ever loaned out.

Guided tours are available to view the main buildings.
Telephone: (0)1865 277162
Website: www.bodley.ox.ac.uk
Transport:
Opening times: Tours from the quadrangle, Broad Street, depart 10.30am, 11.30am, 2pm and 3pm Monday to Saturday.

Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum houses a fascinating and extensive collection of art and archaeology covering four thousand years of history, ranging from the ancient civilisations of Egypt, Greece and Rome to the 20th century, and including sculpture, ceramics, musical instruments and paintings. It is the United Kingdom's oldest museum, founded in 1683.
Telephone: (0)1865 278 000
Website: www.ashmolean.org
Transport:
Opening times: Closed until November 2009. Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm, Sunday 12pm to 5pm. (From June to August the museum stays open until 7pm on Thursdays). Closed 1 January and 24-26 December

Christchurch Picture Gallery
Christchurch, one of Oxford's most renowned university colleges, possesses an important collection of about 300 paintings and 2,000 drawings, mainly by the Italian masters. Works by Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael and Rubens are to be seen here, along with examples from Van Dyck, Frans Hals and Hugo van der Goes. The entire collection cannot be displayed at one time because of space constraints, but the exhibition changes every few months. There are also displays of 18th-century glass and Russian icons.
Telephone: (0)1865 276172
Website: www.chch.ox.ac.uk
Transport:
Opening times: Monday to Saturday 10.30am to 5pm, Sunday 2pm to 5pm (1 May to 30 September). Monday to Saturday 10.30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4.30pm, Sunday 2pm to 4.30pm (1 October to 30 April). Closed Easter week and 20 December to 6 January

Carfax Tower
The photo opportunity afforded from the top makes it worthwhile climbing the 99 stairs of the Carfax Tower in the centre of Oxford's shopping district. The tower top is the best place from which to view the 'dreaming spires' of this architecturally beautiful city. The tower is the only remnant of the 14th-century St Martin's church, demolished in 1896 to improve the traffic flow at the junction of Cornmarket and Queen Streets. On the first floor a display depicts the history of the church, while information boards on the tower top identify the landmarks and spires in the panoramic view. On the eastern side of the tower is a clock with two figures that strike the quarter hours.
Telephone: (0)1865 792 653
Website:
Transport:
Opening times: Open daily from 10am to 3pm November to February and from 10am to 4pm March to October

Botanic Gardens
The oldest Botanic Garden in the country, Oxford's bountiful botanical collection of more than 7,000 species of plants has been growing for four centuries.

It was founded as a 'physic garden' by the Earl of Danby in 1621, but today its biodiversity is renowned as being greater even than that of a tropical rainforest. One does not, however, have to be a horticulturalist to enjoy the beautifully planted walled garden, exotic greenhouses, herbaceous borders, rock and water gardens that make up this botanic feast.
Telephone: (0)1865 286 690
Website: www.botanic-garden.ox.ac.uk
Transport:
Opening times: Daily from 9am. Closing time varies between 4.30pm and 6pm depending on the season

. Hadrian's Wall
In order to separate the Roman Empire in Britain from the 'Barbarians,' in AD122 Emperor Hadrian ordered the building of an impressive wall. Taking approximately six years to complete, the Wall stretches for roughly 80 miles (120km) from South Shields to Ravenglass, passing through present-day Newcastle. Dotted along the Wall are several forts, temples, turrets and milecastles and visitors can explore these fascinating 2,000-year-old remains, as well as the surrounding countryside. Hadrian's Wall was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
Telephone: (0)1434 322 002
Website: www.hadrians-wall.org
Transport:
Opening times:

Urbis
Nestled in the heart of Manchester, Urbis is a unique and interesting concept - an exhibition centre of city life across the globe, created as part of an urban regeneration project. Featuring interactive exhibits and fascinating exhibitions, the uber-modern glass building, sometimes described as a 'glass ski slope,' is an immediate Manchester landmark and visitors are drawn not only to the exhibits, but to the building itself. The gallery on level one hosts different exhibitions, while levels two, three and four house permanent exhibits and displays. Levels five and six house Le Mont Restaurant, providing incredible views of the city, as well as fine dining, and there is also The Social, a restaurant and late night venue that features live bands, DJs and more.
Telephone: (0)161 605 8200
Website: www.urbis.org.uk
Transport: Accessible by train, tram, car or on foot
Opening times: Daily from 10am to 6pm

Old Trafford
Nicknamed the Theatre of Dreams, Old Trafford is home to one of the premier English football clubs, Manchester United and since 1878, has been the heart and soul of the club. More than 200,000 visitors come each year to marvel at the home of the likes of Ryan Giggs and Cristiano Ronaldo, and share in some of the Man U magic. Guided tours of the stadium run every 10 minutes and the award-winning museum is chock-full of fascinating trivia, memorabilia and interactive exhibits, guaranteed to delight fans and perhaps even win over a few new ones.

The Red CafÃ©, in the North Stand of the stadium, is open daily and serves up delicious food for those needing replenishment, while the Megastore in the East Stand sells every conceivable type of Man U branded item.
Telephone: (0)870 442 1994
Website: www.manutd.com
Transport:
Opening times: Guided stadium tours daily 9.40am to 4.30pm; Museum daily 9.30am to 5pm

. Tate Liverpool
The Tate Liverpool is home to the biggest collection of modern art in the UK outside of London, and a browse through its exhibits is an afternoon well spent. Situated in Liverpool's historic Albert Dock in a converted warehouse, the gallery has an impressive collection of 20th and 21st century works of modern art selected from the Tate Collection that are exhibited through regularly changing themed displays. There are also several temporary exhibitions of contemporary art and the gallery also hosts various events and educational programmes throughout the year. Some of the artists on display include JMW Turner, Kenneth Noland, Henri Matisse, Paul Gauguin and Antony Gormley.
Telephone: (0)151 702 7400
Website: www.tate.org.uk/liverpool
Transport:
Opening times: Daily 10am to 5.50pm (April to August). Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 5.50pm (September to March) and Bank Holiday Mondays in this period

BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Arts is a unique and fascinating collection of ever-changing exhibits, set in an old flourmill on the south bank of the River Tyne. The biggest gallery of its kind, the Centre allows visitors to explore the innovative and unusual world of top contemporary artists, both local and international. The BALTIC Centre also plays host to various performances, activities, talks and visitors have an opportunity to interact with the latest artist-in-residence. Some of the Centre's past, present and future exhibitors include Sam Taylor-Wood, Wang Du, Susan Hiller and Keith Haring.
Telephone: (0)191 478 1810
Website: www.balticmill.com
Transport:
Opening times: Daily 10am to 6pm, Tuesdays 10.30am to 6pm. Last entry is 15 minutes before closing

Castle Howard
Award-winning Castle Howard is one of York's most striking attractions. Home to the Howard family for over 300 years, the Castle took 100 years to build, outliving several architects, craftsmen and three earls, to become the setting for the popular TV series, Brideshead Revisited. The spectacular estate comprises of acres of farmland and exquisite gardens, while the interior is a treasure trove of paintings, furniture, sculptures and more. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour, but historical costumed guides are available to answer questions and share information about the history of the house, the Howard family and the collections.

Regular guided tours are also available and the Castle frequently plays host to a range of exhibitions, lectures, events and dinners. The Castle also has a gift shop, cafÃ©s and a plant centre.
Telephone: (0)1653 648 444
Website: www.castlehoward.co.uk
Transport: Accessible by public transport. Visitors using public transport are entitled to a discount on their admission fee with presentation of a valid travel ticket dated the day of visit
Opening times: Gardens daily 10am to 6.30pm, till dusk in winter. House opening times vary, see website for details.

. York Minster
For over 1,000 years, York Minster has been a principal place of worship for the York area. The largest Gothic cathedral in Europe, this impressive building is open to the public and visitors can enjoy the peace and beauty of the church, including its many stained glass windows, the well-known Rose window, fascinating ancient remains beneath the church in the Undercroft, and spectacular views from the top of the tower, 275 steps up. Audio tours are available. York Minster also boasts its own gift shop, as well as a restaurant/cafÃ©.
Telephone: (0)1904 557200
Website: www.yorkminster.org
Transport: Accessible by train, coach or car
Opening times: Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm (9.30am November to March) and Sunday 12pm to 3.45pm. No admission for sightseeing on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, or Sundays before 12pm. Early services start at 7am daily

Jorvik Viking Centre
Set on a 'Viking Dig' archaeological site, the Jorvik Viking Centre is a fascinating exploration of the Viking presence in York over 1,000 years ago. Between 1976 and 1981, the York Archaeological Trust excavated thousands of Viking era objects, including wooden houses, alleyways and fence lines, all part of the ancient centre of Viking power in England, Jorvik. Shortly after, the centre opened its doors and swiftly became a popular tourist attraction in the city. With over 800 items on display, informative exhibits, reconstructions of the excavated Viking village (including authentic smells and sounds!) and 'Viking' guides, the centre offers visitors the chance to experience what life was like in 975AD. A highly popular event is the annual Jorvik Viking Festival in February, where Vikings roam the streets of York once more. Enjoy weaponry displays, hands-on activities (including shield building and excavating), re-enactments of Viking boat burials, guided walks, an evening of ancient tales and songs, and more.
Telephone: (0)1904 543400
Website: www.jorvik-viking-centre.co.uk
Transport: Accessible by car, bus or train
Opening times: 10am to 5pm (summer), 10am till 4pm (winter)

York Dungeons
Not for the faint-hearted, the York Dungeons present a fascinating journey back in time and visitors are guaranteed a ghoulish, grisly experience that will be hard to forget.

From the plague-riddled streets of 14th century York, to the Labyrinth of the Lost and its ghostly Lost Roman Legion, adventures with the legendary highwayman Dick Turpin, to the Pit of Despair, Witch Trials, and the real Viking story, visitors can certainly expect the unexpected. Be tried and convicted in the Judgement of Sinners trials, witness hangings and marvel at the life-like waxworks on display. The tour is not recommended for those of a nervous disposition and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Telephone: 0871 360 2049
Website: www.thedungeons.com
Transport: Accessible by train, bus or car
Opening times: Various, see website for details.

. Museum of Science and Industry
It may not seem like everybody's cup of tea, but the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry is a truly fascinating and varied collection of exhibits, displays and more, for visitors of all ages. Fifteen different galleries crammed full of all sorts of items are housed in the key historic site of one of the world's oldest railway stations, Liverpool Road Station. Some of the permanent exhibits include Underground Manchester, where visitors can meander through a reconstructed Victorian Sewer system complete with authentic sounds and smells, the Xperiment interactive science gallery, the captivating Collections Centre with anything from antique microscopes to Star Trek memorabilia, and the Air and Space Hall. The Special Exhibitions gallery plays host to several touring exhibitions annually. The Museum also houses a shop, cafÃ© and restaurant, as well as several picnic areas.
Telephone: (0)161 832 2244
Website: www.msim.org.uk
Transport: Bus 33 from Piccadilly Gardens; also accessible by train, tram or car
Opening times: Daily 10am to 5pm. Closed 24-26 December and 1 January

Bridgewater Hall
Situated on an arm of the Bridgewater Canal, the world-class Â£42-million concert venue Bridgewater Hall holds over 250 performances a year and is home to one of Britain's longest running orchestras, the HallÃ© Orchestra. This architecturally striking building can house just under 2,500 audience members and the main auditorium is centred around a remarkable 5,500 pipe organ. The Hall plays host not only to classical music, but has also seen a range of artists such as the legendary James Brown, indie artist Badly Drawn Boy and guitarist John Williams. Bridgewater Hall is also home to the award winning Charles HallÃ© restaurant, as well as the Stalls CafÃ© Bar.
Telephone: (0)161 907 9000 (bookings)
Website: www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk
Transport: Accessible by car, bus or train
Opening times: Bookings Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm (8pm on concert nights), Sunday (concert nights only) 12pm to 8pm. Closed on non-concert Sundays.

Beatles Story Experience
For Beatles fans, The Beatles Story Experience is an absolute must. Set in the trendy and historic Albert Dock, The Beatles Story allows visitors to trace the development of the Fab Four, from their early days playing in Hamburg to the mass hysteria of Beatlemania, the eventual break-up of the band and their ensuing solo careers. Eighteen different features, as well as the Living History audio tour with the voices of Sir Paul McCartney, Beatles producer Sir George Martin and band manager Brian Epstein, continue to delight fans and win over new ones. See George Harrison's first guitar, view the world through a collection of John Lennon's signature round lens glasses, explore the Yellow Submarine and enjoy a recreation of the stage at the Cavern Club on Mathew Street where The Beatles played over 290 times. As well as the Beatle Story Experience, Liverpool also boasts several other Beatles related tours and sights that are well worth exploring, including a Magical Mystery Bus Tour of famous Beatles sights such as Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields, Paul McCartney's former home at 20 Forthlin Road, the famous Cavern Club and the Mathew Street Gallery that houses the art work of John Lennon.
Telephone: (0)151 709 1963
Website: www.beatlesstory.com
Transport:
Opening times: Daily 9am to 7pm. Closed 25-26 December

. Merseyside Maritime Museum
The fascinating Merseyside Maritime Museum traces the history and development of the city of Liverpool as a major port. The Museum houses a range of collections, from an exhibition on the tragic and brutal Transatlantic Slave trade in which Liverpool played a major role (soon to become a separate museum), to artworks reflecting Liverpool's maritime past, artefacts from the Titanic and the Lusitania, maritime archives and more, including access to the quaysides opposite the museum and two historic vessels.
Telephone: (0)151 478 4499
Website: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/maritime
Transport:
Opening times: Daily 10am to 5pm. Closed from 2pm on 24 December. Closed on 25 and 26 December, and 1 January

Bristol Zoo Gardens
The Bristol Zoo Gardens was founded in 1835 and is one of the oldest zoos in the world. Spread over 12 acres, the zoo has been an immensely popular Bristol attraction since its inception and is a fun-filled experience for young and old alike. The zoo focuses on conservation and scientific research, as well as entertainment, and some of the fascinating exhibits include Gorilla Island, the Zona Brazil, Bug World, and the Monkey Jungle. The zoo plays host to various exciting events and programmes throughout the year and visitors can also enjoy a picnic in the covered picnic area, or a snack at the Pelican Restaurant.

The Terrace Theatre offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with some of the zoo's smaller inhabitants in Animal Encounters, running every day on the hour from 12pm to 4pm in peak season and 12pm to 3pm off-peak.
Telephone: (0)117 974 7399
Website: www.bristolzoo.org.uk
Transport:
Opening times: Daily from 9am to 5.30pm in peak season, closing at 5.00pm off-peak

. Bristol Cathedral
In roughly 1140, the Abbey of St Augustine was founded by Robert Fitzhardinge. Over the years, the Abbey was altered, eventually becoming the model of the Hall Church style in England. When the Abbey was finally dissolved in 1539, the Nave was demolished and rebuilt, and became what is now the landmark Bristol Cathedral. The original Abbey Gatehouse and the Chapter House, which dates back to 1165, remain and visitors can enjoy the beauty and peace of this ancient holy site and its surrounds. The Cathedral also hosts free music recitals at certain times of year. Public guided tours of the Cathedral are available every Saturday at 11am.
Telephone: (0)117 926 4879
Website: www.bristol-cathedral.co.uk
Transport: Accessible by car, train or ferry
Opening times: Daily from 8am until after Evensong.

Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery
The Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery is an impressive collection of exhibits, objects and artwork, housed in a beautiful Edwardian Baroque building. As well as the permanent exhibits of regional, national and international artefacts, the museum hosts a range of temporary exhibitions and has a variety of different periods of artworks on display in its galleries. From natural history to the World Wildlife Gallery, decorative arts collections and archaeological displays, the Bristol City Museum and Gallery has something for everyone. The museum and gallery also plays host to various special events, workshops and children's activities throughout the year.
Telephone: (0)117 922 3571
Website:
Transport:
Opening times: Daily 10am to 5pm

Durham Cathedral
Celebrated, together with Durham Castle as one of Britain's first World Heritage Sites, the Durham Cathedral is one of the finest examples of a Norman building in England. An icon of northeast England, the Cathedral was voted as the nation's best-loved building in a nationwide BBC poll held in 2001. Renowned for its immense architecture, ancient history and deep religious roots the Cathedral is a must see for any visitor to Durham.
Telephone: (0)191 386 4266
Website: www.durhamcathedral.co.uk
Transport:
Opening times: Daily, except during special services and events

Durham Heritage Centre
Durham's colourful local history museum is housed in a medieval church, offering some interactive fun and exhibits detailing the story of Durham from ancient times to the present day.

Exhibits include fascinating items like the 'Death Chair', used to carry sick boys from Durham School to the infirmary in days of yore, and a chilling recreation of a cell from the notorious Northgate gaol. The Heritage Centre also has a brass-rubbing centre and offers an audio-visual show of the history of the town.
Telephone: (0191) 384 5589
Website: www.durhamheritagecentre.org.uk
Transport:
Opening times: Daily 11am to 4.30pm (July to September) and open weekends and Bank holidays from 2pm to 4.30pm for the rest of the year

. Fowlers Yard Creative Workspaces
A row of stables along the River Wear close to the historic heart of Durham has been converted into a set of creative workspaces, where local artists can be seen at work. Visitors can watch crafts like woodcarving, glasswork, painting and textile arts in progress.
Telephone: (0)191 301 8245
Website: www.fowlersyarddurham.co.uk
Transport:
Opening times:

Crook Hall
Durham's beautiful Grade 1 listed medieval manor house of Crook Hall, dating from around the 13th century, is a short distance from the town centre and one of its most popular attractions. The house and magnificent gardens are open to the public, and cream teas are served in a pretty courtyard in summer, or in front of a roaring log fire in winter. Most visitors are intrigued by the 17th-century Jacobean room in the house, allegedly haunted by the ghost of the 'White Lady', niece of a former resident of the house.
Telephone: (0)191 384 8028
Website: www.crookhallgardens.co.uk
Transport:
Opening times: 11am to 5pm on various days throughout the year, see website for details.

Durham Castle
Few buildings in the world can claim to have been in constant use for more than 900 years, but Durham Castle is one of them. It was originally built in the 11th century opposite Durham Cathedral to protect the Bishop from the 'barbaric' northern tribes, after the Norman Conquest of 1066. Over the centuries the core of the ancient castle remained intact, but there have been numerous renovations and extensions. The castle's aspect today is imposing. The Great Hall is one of the largest in Britain, created by Bishop Antony Bek in the 14th century. Since 1840, when the Bishop moved elsewhere, it has housed a college of Durham University. Visitors are welcome on guided tours, lasting about 45 minutes.
Telephone: (0)191 374 3800
Website: www.durhamcastle.com
Transport:
Opening times: Tours usually take place at intervals on Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons during term time, daily during university vacations. Call ahead to check as events may result in cancellations

Armley Mills Industrial Museum
The Armley Mills Industrial Museum was a working cloth mill until 1969 when the City Council turned it into an award-winning industrial museum.

Exhibits trace the history of textiles, clothing and locomotive manufacture in Yorkshire. Particularly interesting is a section devoted to the 1920s silent movie projectors, operating water wheels and the huge spinning mules that were in use in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Telephone: (0)1132 637 861
Website: www.leeds.gov.uk/armleymills
Transport: Bus 5 from Leeds Railway Station
Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm, Sunday 1pm to 5pm (last admission 4pm). Open on Bank Holiday Mondays.

. Thackray Museum
There is surely no more interesting day out than a visit to the Thackray Museum, which tells the story of medical advances through the ages. A recreated Victorian street, complete with sights, sounds and smells, highlights the lives, ailments and treatment of a bygone era in vivid clarity, and visitors can also step inside the human body in an interactive gallery. The museum was the vision of Paul Thackray, a former director of a medical supplies company, and since its opening in 1997 has become one of Britain's best museums.
Telephone: (0)113 244 4343
Website: www.thackraymuseum.org
Transport: Bus 11 from Vicar Lane travels to St James's Hospital, which is alongside the museum. Bus 41 and 50 from The Headrow and the St Peter's Street coach station also serve the museum
Opening times: Daily 10am to 5pm. Last entry 3pm. Closed 24th, 25th, 26th, 31st December and 1st January

Leeds Art Gallery
In the heart of the city, the Leeds Art Gallery offers a feast for art lovers, its collections covering everything from traditional prints, watercolours, paintings and sculpture as well as weird and wonderful contemporary works. The gallery is renowned for having the best collection of British art outside of London. Adjoining the Gallery is the Henry Moore Institute with the acclaimed sculpture study centre, and programme of sculpture exhibitions.
Telephone: (0)113 247 8256
Website: www.leeds.gov.uk/artgallery
Transport:
Opening times: Daily at various times, see website for details.

Royal Armouries Museum
This fun, living museum contains five themed galleries (covering War, Tournaments, Self-Defence, Hunting and Arms & Armour of the Orient), filled with interactive displays, dramatic interpretations, action scenarios and some exciting exhibits. This is more a cross between a theme park and a museum, bringing history alive in many unique ways, from watching gunmakers ply their craft to demonstrations of falconry and horsemanship.
Telephone: (0)8700 344 344
Website: www.royalarmouries.org
Transport: Can be easily reached on foot from the main station or anywhere in the city centre
Opening times: Daily 10am to 5pm except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Abbey House Museum
The entertaining Abbey House Museum is contained in the gatehouse of the picturesque ruined Kirkstall Abbey (dating from 1152). Abbey House allows visitors to walk around the streets of 1880s Leeds, while the upstairs section features galleries detailing the history of Kirkstall Abbey and the social history of the area.
Telephone: (0)113 230 5492
Website: www.leeds.gov.uk/abbeyhouse
Transport: Bus 33 or 33A from Central Bus Station
Opening times: Tuesday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday 12pm to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 5pm (closed Mondays). Last admissions at 4pm

Ducal Mansion (Nottingham Castle)
Towering over the city centre of Nottingham is a magnificent 17th-century mansion, built on a sandstone outcrop on the site of the original medieval castle erected by William the Conqueror in 1067. The Castle building now houses the city's fine art collections, and a small museum charting the history of the Sherwood Foresters Regiment. The art galleries include interactive displays and the artworks are presented in a vibrant, interesting way. The well-kept grounds of the castle are used for a full calendar of events, from historic pageants to an outdoor theatre season. There is also a medieval styled children's playground and picnic area.
Telephone:
Website: www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/sitemap/leisure_and_culture/museumsandgalleries/nottinghamcastle.htm
Transport:
Opening times: Daily 10am to 5pm (March to September), and 10am to 4pm (October to February)

City of Caves
A system of man-made caves carved into the sandstone beneath the city of Nottingham has been developed into a modern award-winning attraction. Anglo-Saxons, whose lifestyle is depicted with dramatic presentations for visitors who come to explore Nottingham's 'underworld', originally inhabited the caves. Over the centuries the caves have been put to various uses by the locals, in times of war and peace, and were saved by local inhabitants in recent times when developers almost built a modern shopping centre over them. Now guided tours take visitors through the caves and through the ages, from the mystical 'Enchanted Well', through a working medieval tannery, the Victorian slums of 'Drury Hill' and a World War II bomb shelter.
Telephone: (0)115 952 0555
Website: www.cityofcaves.com
Transport:
Opening times: Monday to Friday 11.30am to 4.30pm, Saturday and Sunday 10.30am to 4.30pm

Brewhouse Yard Museum
The Brewhouse Yard Museum, housed in five 17th century cottages in central Nottingham, depicts the social history of the city during the past 300 years. Visitors can experience life in a reconstructed Victorian home, various shop settings, and browse through a row of 1920s enterprises like an ironmonger, doctor's surgery and a cobbler. The museum is continually changing its displays, telling the history of the area through sight, sound and touch.
Telephone: (0)115 915 3600
Website: www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/sitemap/leisure_and_culture/museumsandgalleries/brewhouse_yard.htm
Transport:
Opening times: Daily 10am to 4.30pm

Lace Market
Nottingham's Lace Market Centre is situated in the heart of a protected heritage area of the city which has undergone exciting regeneration in recent years, the old Victorian warehouses in the area having been turned into stylish residential units and trendy bars or restaurants. Once a thriving local industry, lace was manufactured on a large scale in Nottingham after the invention of a framework machine in 1589. At the Lace Market Centre visitors can find out all about lace-making and its impact through a series of exhibitions, demonstrations, and audio-visual presentations. There is also a lace shop and coffee bar at the centre.
Telephone: (0)115 989 7365
Website:
Transport:
Opening times: Daily 10am to 5pm

Balti Triangle
Any visit to Birmingham is not complete without visiting the city's curry capital and sampling its unique Balti fare. Originating from the large Kashmiri population, the Balti dish was officially discovered in 1976. The word balti means 'bucket' and refers to the round-bottomed pan, similar to a wok, which the dish is served in. A mouth-watering stir-fried curry with an amalgamation of aromatic spices, fresh herbs and tantalising masalas, newcomers should forget their knives and forks and mop up the sauce with a wad of aromatic Nan bread. Located in the Sparkbrook area ten minutes from the city centre, the Balti Triangle boasts over 50 restaurants dedicated to Eastern cuisine and a smattering of shops, ranging from Asian clothes and fashion to exotic foods and of course Bollywood merchandise.
Telephone:
Website:
Transport:
Opening times:

Selfridges Store
A Birmingham landmark, the Selfridges store at the Bullring Market boasts a stylish design proving that contemporary architecture can thrive outside trendy London. Designed by Future Systems' architects, the knobbly silver faÃ§ade was inspired by Paco Rabanne's chain mail dresses. Constructed with concrete, which was then painted a glowing blue and adorned with 16,000 polished aluminum disks to create a mottled outer skin, the contemporary construction cost just over one million US dollars to build.

Transforming Birmingham's urban fabric, the store draws 1000s of visitors each week who come to witness its bizarre design and to browse the designer goodies inside.
Telephone:
Website: www.selfridges.co.uk
Transport: Bus or train to Moor Street Station or New Street Station
Opening times: Monday to Friday 10am to 8pm, Saturday 9am to 8pm and Sunday 11am to 5pm.

. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Boasting the largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings and drawings in the world, the breathtaking works of Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Edward Burne Jones can be found at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. The spectacular Waterhall gallery of modern art is littered with impressionist masterpieces and is not to be missed on any trip to Birmingham and the same can be said of the Greek, Roman and Ancient Near East gallery, which never ceases to please. With fine art from the 14th century onwards and an impressive collection of archaeological finds, documenting 400,000 years of history visitors will be suitably satisfied. The Edwardian Tea Room provides a cosy space to discuss what you saw and serves warm beverages, light snacks and scrumptious cakes.
Telephone: (0)121 303 2834
Website: www.bmag.org.uk
Transport:
Opening times: Various, see website for details.

Museum of the Jewellery Quarter
Take a journey back in time at the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter. Housed in an original jewellery making factory dating from the early 1900s, the enchanting family run firm of Smith and Pepper provides a window into the ancient craft skills that made Birmingham the centre of the British jewellery industry. The factory is presented exactly as it was left when abandoned in 1981, after 80 years of jewellery making, even down to the coffee cups. The museum also uses state of the art technology to unravel the history of jewellery making in the Midlands to newcomers. Over 100 jewellery shops line the streets of the Jewellery Quarter and are a popular attraction for bargain hunters and shoppers looking for a special purchase.
Telephone: (0)121 554 3598
Website: www.bmag.org.uk
Transport:
Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday, 11.30am to 4.00pm (summer); Tuesday to Saturday, 11.30am to 4.00pm (winter).

Bullring Markets
Acknowledged as England's Best Outdoor market in 2008 by the National Association of British Market Authorities, the Bullring Open Market is renowned for its extensive range of fabrics and fresh produce. The market took the illustrious prize on account of its promotion of healthy eating policies and ongoing support of low-income families. Each year more than six million people visit the Bullring Markets, the Indoor Market, housing 140 unique stalls, best known for its fresh fish section.