A land of legends and myths, Great Britain abounds in fantastic historical sights. The country’s history fascinates and intrigues and lures in history buffs, eager to travel back to ancient times where kings and queens, and heroes and martyrs were the superstars of the land. From mysterious rocks to elegant architecture, and from historic towns to medieval citadels, the historical sites of Great Britain have some of the most interesting stories to tell.
Stonehenge
You can see the Stonehenge dozens of times and you’ll still be left puzzled. A survivor from a long lost culture, this fascinating circle of stones has been around for more than 5,000 years. Erected between 3,000 BC and 1,600 BC, the monument is aligned to capture the rising and setting of the sun at solstices but, to this day, no one can tell anything about its exact purpose. Moreover, no one can explain how those mammoth sarsen stones have been transported and erected. Mysterious and intriguing, Stonehenge awaits near Avebury and will probably continue to fascinate and entice many future generations.
Tower of London
A historic site wrapped in tales of death and torture, Tower of London is a spectacular appearance in the heart of contemporary London. Once you step inside and discover the White Tower, an imposing structure dating back to 1078 and built by William the Conqueror, you instantly feel that some things went terribly awry there. History tells us about the beheading of Anne Boleyn in 1536, the disappearance of princes in 1483, the torture of Guy Fawkes in 1605 and about many other poor souls that still whisper their tragic stories trapped within these walls. Currently home to the Crown Jewels, this historic site receives more than two million people every year. Don’t miss the Wall Walk to explore the colossal defensive inner wall and visit the Bowyer Tower to find out more about the story of the Duke of Wellington.
Warwick Castle
William the Conqueror was a busy man and Warwick Castle is another proof of his hard work. Built in 1068 and remodeled in stone in the 12th century, this fabulous castle was once the residence of the powerful Earls of Warwick. A superb piece of defensive architecture, the castle is a time machine that can take visitors back in time for hundreds and hundreds of years, when the Earls of Warwick had the power to make or break kings and queens. You can visit the castle’s dungeon and admire the Warwick Trebuchet, the largest working siege machine in the world, as well as discover the living quarters of the Countess of Warwick. The castle fascinates visitors with stunning interiors and fine examples of Gothic, baroque, and Doric design.
Roman Baths, Bath
A UNESCO World Heritage City, the city of Bath is home to a superb Roman bathing complex. Situated in the heart of the city, the complex was built in the first century AD around natural hot springs. The settlement was then known as Aquae Sulis and was also home to a temple dedicated to Sulis Minerva, the goddess of the springs. The bath still stands, an imposing and awe-inspiring structure housing extensive ruins and an interesting museum. Even though the site looks small from the outside, it’s quite impressive on the inside. A visit takes at least a few hours, especially if you want to learn more about the lives of the Romans that lived in Bath and around Britain. One of the best preserved Roman sites in the UK, the Roman Baths are situated close to other interesting attractions, like the Abbey church and splendid Georgian buildings.
Edinburgh Castle
Guarding the picturesque city of Edinburgh for centuries, Edinburgh Castle is mighty and fearless just like all the Scottish heroes we’ve learned about. The castle is perched on the Castle Rock, above the streets of Edinburgh, and reminds both locals and travelers about the warrior spirit, courage, and determination of the Scots. Built in the 12th century by David I, son of Saint Margaret of Scotland, lived in by Mary, Queen of Scots and other Scottish royals till 1603, conquered by Edward I and Oliver Cromwell, and used as a military base and prison, Edinburgh Castle has witnessed Scotland’s history without surrendering in the face of time. A visit to the Edinburgh Castle will keep you busy for hours, telling you stories about kings and queens, betrayals and intrigues, but also about prisoners of war and pirates.
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