From medieval kingdoms to ancient legends – Britain is rich with history! And visiting some of its best historical spots allows you to experience its vibrant tapestry.
Stonehenge and Hadrian’s Wall are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites that demonstrate England’s Roman past and life on the edge of an empire.
Liverpool Cathedral
The present Metropolitan Cathedral in Liverpool stands as an iconic symbol of faith, architecture and human endeavour. Its story is one of strength, determination and teamwork from architects, builders and local people all working towards realising their holy visions.
Coventry Cathedral designed by Sir Basil Spence with neo-gothic features recalling medieval basilicas; Clifton Roman Catholic Cathedral in Bristol and Westminster Cathedral both using classicising architectural forms; as well as St Peter’s in Rome were among the other newly built cathedrals in England in this century.
In 1934, Archbishop Richard Downey of Liverpool commissioned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens to design a Cathedral which would have been vast and complex in composition. Unfortunately due to war only its Crypt and Treasury were finished – this design eventually being scrapped altogether in 1967 for good. Today’s modern circular cathedral, completed under its predecessor’s plan in 1967 is famous for its large stained glass windows as well as Lutyens Crypt & Treasury which stands majestically inside.
Westminster
Westminster is home to some of London’s most beloved attractions, including Big Ben (Palace of Westminster), Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace. Furthermore, Westminster also contains Houses of Parliament as well as numerous government offices as well as numerous luxury hotels and shops.
Since Edward the Confessor constructed his Palace and Church on Thorney Island in 11th century, Westminster Abbey, Palace of Westminster, and St Margaret’s Church have stood as symbols of monarchy, religion, and power. Their intertwining silhouettes symbolize both constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy in their time of construction.
The Abbey is an unparalleled artistic work displaying successive stages of English Gothic art. Its inscriptions and sculpture honor monarchs, knights, noblemen, writers and other famous figures such as monarchs. Additionally it was traditionally used by Saxon and Norman kings for coronations ceremonies before later being adopted by Tudors who rebuilt it into what is today known as Palace of Westminster during 1837-60.
The Tower of London
The Tower of London is one of Britain’s most celebrated historical places and for good reason. Built initially by William the Conqueror to protect his new empire, over time it grew into England’s biggest and strongest ‘concentric castle’ containing one ring of defences within another ring – serving also as royal palace, prison, and home to Royal Armouries.
During the Tudor era, anyone perceived as a threat to national security found themselves here, including Lady Jane Grey, Sir Walter Raleigh and Guy Fawkes. Here they were either imprisoned, tortured or executed – many taking place here on Tower Green.
The Tower’s role has evolved with the changing needs of the crown over time, yet remains a living fortress. Home to Yeoman Warders and their families as well as a garrison of soldiers commanded by its own doctor and chaplain, as well as tourists looking for tourist attractions with ravens said to protect the Crown Jewels by staying within their cages or else the monarchy will crumble, it remains a popular tourist attraction today.
Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle is truly remarkable. Perched majestically atop two islands in a lake, this architectural marvel was once the seat of both Saxon and Norman royalty – and today serves as an idyllic wedding venue.
This beautiful medieval residence was home to six medieval queens including Eleanor of Aquitaine, Joan of Navarre and Catherine de Valois. Additionally, King Henry VIII met Francois I of France for their famous tournament dubbed The Field of Cloth of Gold tournament held here in 1520.
Before being sold in 1926 to Lady Baillie for PS12,000 she began upgrading the castle and its parklands. Following Lady Baillie’s death in 1974 it passed to Leeds Castle Foundation and is now open for all to visit with quirky attractions including a dog collar museum and falconry center – unique experiences!
