Historic and picturesque city renowned for the Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, and vibrant cultural life. Its stunning landscapes, with the Avon River winding through the valley, adds to its charm. The city is famous for its well-preserved Roman Baths. The baths themselves are part of a larger complex that includes the Temple of Sulis Minerva and the Great Bath, where visitors can learn about Roman history and even take a dip in the spa waters! Bath combines history, culture, architecture, and natural beauty, making it one of UKs (& Carms) most beloved and unique destinations. As Brian once described it “Its pretty”. Located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from the venue, 2 hours and 20 minutes from London.
(£25 per person).
No visit to the UK would be complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring Stonehenge, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Located just a short drive from Bath, this ancient stone circle is shrouded in mystery and wonder. Believed to date back to over 4,000 years ago, Stonehenge is a must-see for history enthusiast and nature lovers alike. Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes from the venue, 50 minutes from Bath, 1 hour and 45 minutes from London.
(£28 per person).
Self-guided tour of the sets that were used to film the Harry Potter movies. Includes the sets, costumes, makeup, and a look into how some of the special effects worked. We loved our time at WBS during our first visit to the UK! Located just under 1 hour from London.
(£56 per person).
Located 5 minutes from the venue, a hidden gem nestled within the stunning St Audries Bay, located on the beautiful Somerset Coast. The falls cascade into a small, serene pool, creating a peaceful and romantic atmosphere.
(Free to visit).
10 minute drive from the estate. Famed for being the Jurassic coast on the Bristol Channel. Kilve is a perfect location to watch the sunset, or discover ammonites and reptile remains. Please note that Kilve is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), so removing fossils is not allowed. Be sure to check the tide times!
(Free to visit, but it is pay to park, can be paid via the app or as you exit).
Roughly 20 minutes from St. Audries Park, offering breathtaking views, wildlife and outdoor activities. With its vast moorlands, dramatic cliffs, and lush valley's it is the perfect place to escape into nature.
(Free to enter, no opening or closing times).
A visit to Somerset would not be complete without seeing the famous Cheddar Gorge. This dramatic limestone gorge is not only home to spectacular views but also the cave system where Cheddar cheese originated. Explore the caves, go rock climbing. or take a scenic walk along the cliffs. Roughly 1 hour from the venue, 3 hours from London.
(Free to access the cliffs, to explore the caves or go rock climbing tickets need to be purchased online in advance).
Nestled in the heart of Glastonbury, Glastonbury Abbey is one of the most iconic and serene locations in Somerset. Set amidst 36 acres of stunning gardens, this historic site offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere, making it perfect for a peaceful stroll or quiet reflection.
Steeped in rich history, the Abbey was once a thriving center of medieval life, believed to be the mythical resting place of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere. Visitors can explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins, wander through the ancient gardens, and enjoy the romantic ambiance that surrounds the site. 1 hour from the venue, 30 minutes from Cheddar Gorge and Caves.
(£10 per person if purchased online in advance).
Located about 25 minutes outside central London, Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to one of the largest and most diverse plant collections in the world. With over 300 acres of lush landscapes, you can wander through stunning glasshouses, such as the Palm House and the Temperate House, which house exotic plants from around the globe. (be prepared to sweat in these greenhouses!) The Kew Gardens tranquil lakes, peaceful woodland walks, and vibrant flowerbeds make it the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature. Be sure to wear comfy shoes and plan to get your steps in! Both Brian and Carman thoroughly enjoyed their time at the Kew :).
(£22 per person, free entry with the pass).
One of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, Big Ben is famous for its towering clock face and rich history. Situated beside the Houses of Parliament on the banks of the River Thames, this majestic clock has been keeping time since 1859 and is a symbol of London itself. For an even more immersive experience, visit Westminster Bridge for a fantastic view of Big Ben framed by the River Thames, and take in the architectural beauty of the nearby Houses of Parliament.
(Free to visit, tours are offered at £35 per adult).
The Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Take a walk across this stunning bridge and enjoy views of the Thames, the Tower of London, and the city’s skyline. You can also visit the exhibition inside to learn about the bridge’s history and engineering.
(Free to walk across, there is a fee to go up into the bridge).
Dive into British history with a visit to the Tower of London, where you can explore the historic fortress, see the Crown Jewels, and learn about its fascinating past as a royal palace, prison, and treasury.
(£35 per person. Entry is included with the pass).
No trip to London is complete without witnessing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. This quintessentially British ceremony takes place daily in the summer and is a must-see for anyone wanting to experience the pomp and tradition of the British monarchy.
(Free to view from the outside, tickets to enter range from £16-95 per person depending on the type of entry ticket).
For unparalleled panoramic views of London, head to The Shard, the tallest building in the city. The observation deck offers breathtaking views of everything from St. Paul’s Cathedral to the London Eye and beyond. Enjoy an afternoon tea or romantic dinner at one of the 5 restaurants, we loved the Peter Pan afternoon tea at Aqua Shard!
(Tickets are required for everyone visiting the View from the shard, £32 per person).
One of Carm's favorite places to explore in London, the highest public garden in the city. Located atop the "Walkie Talkie" building, this indoor garden offers 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline, including landmarks such as the Shard, Tower Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. The Sky Garden is a unique combination of lush greenery and urban views, with beautifully landscaped gardens, observation decks, and an open-air terrace. You can wander through the garden, relax among the exotic plants, and enjoy a peaceful escape from the bustling city below while sipping on an aperol spritz.
Please note, access to the sky garden is free of charge on weekdays from 10am-6pm, and weekends 11am-9pm. Tickets are available to book three weeks in advance, and they go quick!!
For contemporary art lovers, the Tate Modern is the place to be. Housed in a former power station, the museum features works from artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney, alongside cutting-edge exhibitions showcasing the very best of modern and contemporary art.
(Entry to the collection is free for everyone, booking is recommended for exhibitions and may have a cost).
Home to over 8 million works of art and artifacts, the British Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in world history. See the famous Rosetta Stone, ancient Egyptian mummies, Greek sculptures, and much more. It’s free to enter, making it an accessible and educational experience for all.
(Free to visit, you must book a timed entry ticket in advance to guarantee entry).
Explore the wonders of the natural world at the Natural History Museum. Famous for its dinosaur skeletons, including the towering T. rex, this museum also covers everything from human evolution to the Earth’s ecosystems. The building itself is a masterpiece, and the interactive exhibits are fun for all ages.
(Free to visit, you must book timed entry tickets in advance to guarantee entry).