Your connection to Britain may bring back memories of tweed-jacket-wearing professors at law school, but if you are letting that get in the way of a visit, you’re making a big mistake. There’s more to the UK than London, Haggis and Paddington Bear. Here are three good reasons to take your love of bagpipes and Yorkshire pudding to the next level.
> Art and architecture in Glasgow, Scotland – Glasgow is home to incredible buildings, museums and galleries. And in 2015 it will play host to one of the world’s most coveted arts prizes: The Turner Prize. Start your visit with the Glasgow School of Art walking tour. The tour showcases everything from the city’s Victorian influences to the innovative designs of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Take in a concert at Oran Mor (a former cathedral), walk the botanical gardens and refuel at Guys Restaurant in Merchant City. Don’t Miss: Cameron House at Loch Lomond. The incredible lodge property offers gorgeous rooms, a stunning indoor pool facility and a spa/golf course that won’t disappoint.
> Walkable historical quarters in Manchester, England – Manchester’s image of a dusty, industrial town no longer fits the bill. Its historical quarters are now home to restored and renovated restaurants and trendy shops. Grab a bite at the Hip Gorilla before taking in a play, film or art exhibit at Home. A stop at The Whitworth Art Gallery – voted Museum of the Year in 2015 – rounds things out. Don’t Miss: the Shopping. High-end players like Gucci and Prada and gift shops at places like the National Football Museum (Manchester United anyone?) will ensure you go home with covetable souvenirs.
> Incredible views of Yorkshire Dales in Leeds, Liverpool Canal – Rediscover your inner explorer and take to life on the water with a narrowboat rental from Slisden Boats in Yorkshire. A week of leisurely exploration along the canals promises unique views of the green-hilled dales and the longest pub crawl you’ve ever experienced. Don’t miss: Bingley Five Rise Lock Staircase. The group of consecutive locks isn’t for the faint of heart but well worth seeing from the shore. Moor the boat and take it in while sipping a coffee or enjoying a cone.
Heather Greenwood Davis is a lawyer and travel writer. You can follow her travels at www.globetrottingmama.com. For more information visit www.visitBritain.com.
> Art and architecture in Glasgow, Scotland – Glasgow is home to incredible buildings, museums and galleries. And in 2015 it will play host to one of the world’s most coveted arts prizes: The Turner Prize. Start your visit with the Glasgow School of Art walking tour. The tour showcases everything from the city’s Victorian influences to the innovative designs of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Take in a concert at Oran Mor (a former cathedral), walk the botanical gardens and refuel at Guys Restaurant in Merchant City. Don’t Miss: Cameron House at Loch Lomond. The incredible lodge property offers gorgeous rooms, a stunning indoor pool facility and a spa/golf course that won’t disappoint.
> Walkable historical quarters in Manchester, England – Manchester’s image of a dusty, industrial town no longer fits the bill. Its historical quarters are now home to restored and renovated restaurants and trendy shops. Grab a bite at the Hip Gorilla before taking in a play, film or art exhibit at Home. A stop at The Whitworth Art Gallery – voted Museum of the Year in 2015 – rounds things out. Don’t Miss: the Shopping. High-end players like Gucci and Prada and gift shops at places like the National Football Museum (Manchester United anyone?) will ensure you go home with covetable souvenirs.
> Incredible views of Yorkshire Dales in Leeds, Liverpool Canal – Rediscover your inner explorer and take to life on the water with a narrowboat rental from Slisden Boats in Yorkshire. A week of leisurely exploration along the canals promises unique views of the green-hilled dales and the longest pub crawl you’ve ever experienced. Don’t miss: Bingley Five Rise Lock Staircase. The group of consecutive locks isn’t for the faint of heart but well worth seeing from the shore. Moor the boat and take it in while sipping a coffee or enjoying a cone.
Heather Greenwood Davis is a lawyer and travel writer. You can follow her travels at www.globetrottingmama.com. For more information visit www.visitBritain.com.
