Great Britain is one of the most famous island nations in the world. Millions of tourists come here every year to see the best sights.
This territory includes four administrative and political units: England, Wales, Ireland, and Scotland. The most visited of them is England. Many, unfortunately, very often confuse the UK with England, thinking that they are one and the same. It is not.
In this article we will tell you about the most popular attractions in each of the four administrative and political districts. As you know, they are rich in famous castles, as well as masterpieces of local architecture.
Windsor Castle
Is one of the oldest castles in the world. It is interesting because it is still functioning. The place is considered the official residence of the Queen.
Luxury and we alth are exactly the two words that can describe the majesticWindsor castle. This building was included in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest castle in the world, if only for this reason it can be called one of the main attractions of the UK.
It should also be noted that here you can see the most famous puppet castle on the planet, the royal library, magnificent gardens, works of famous artists and an exhibition dedicated to the royal dynasty.
St David's Cathedral
This cathedral was built in the 12th century. Its architectural appearance was formed over several centuries. It is worth noting that the building has repeatedly been subject to significant damage, but, as you can see, it looks amazing in modern times.
This cathedral in Wales is considered the holiest place, since the relics of the patron saint of Wales, St. David, are located here.
In addition, it is worth noting that the bishop's palace was built here in the 14th century, and the chapel of the Holy Trinity appeared at the beginning of the 16th century.
London Big Ben
One of the most popular attractions in the UK. Beg Ben is the main bell of the Palace of Westminster. This building has a centuries-old history, since it was built in the 13th century. It has been destroyed several times, but has certainly been rebuilt.
In terms of size and volume, the tower weighs about thirteen tons. Previously, only the bell was nicknamed Big Ben, but now the whole tower is called so.
By the way,it is believed that the building received such a name due to the fact that one of the architects is Benjamin Hall. He was large enough to earn his nickname.
In addition, it is worth noting that since 2012, Big Ben has been officially renamed and is now called the Elizabeth Tower.
This place is considered a kind of visiting card of the UK, and you can not argue with that.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle was nicknamed the door to Scotland. The walls have protected it for many centuries. The castle is considered one of the most famous and at the same time mysterious in the whole kingdom. It is located in Edinburgh. Due to the fact that it has a very rich history, and also has a rather difficult style, millions of people from all over the world visit it every year.
The building was built in 1139. By the way, until recently it belonged to the British Ministry of Defense.
Tower of London
This fortress is located on the north bank of the Thames. The age of this building is more than 900 years. It is known for constantly changing its meaning over its long history. The Tower of London has been a prison, a fortress, a palace, as well as an observatory, the repository of the English crown and more.
By the way, the prison was not easy. People with royal blood were imprisoned here. Once upon a time, such noble personalities as Thomas More, Queen Mary Tudor, as well as several wives of Henry XVIII managed to visit this place. It should be noted that the Tower of Londonstopped being a prison in the twentieth century.
This place used to be the residence of monarchs.
Buckingham Palace
This building is the official residence of the ruling dynasty. The foundation date of this historic building is considered to be 1703, and the architect is William Wild, familiar to every inhabitant of England. This complex is considered one of the most famous attractions in the UK.
The place is quite young compared to other historical monuments of the city. The palace was originally built for the Duke of Buckingham, but was bought by George III.
In modern times, this place has more than 800 rooms, and around the perimeter of the building there is a hospital, a restaurant, a post office and more. All this is built especially for the royals.
St. Patrick's Cathedral
This eminent building is located in the capital of Ireland. The cathedral was built specifically in honor of the main saint of the country - Patrick. The cathedral is of great importance for the state. Once this saint managed to save the city from snakes, and also to form a national consciousness among citizens.
The structure was built in a rather strict English style.
Palace of Westminster
One of the most famous landmarks in the UK. Since the fifteenth century, the British Parliament has been sitting in this place. Until that moment, the building served as the royal residence.
This palace is located in the heart of London - onthe banks of the Thames. Since the eleventh century, English kings have settled in this place.
During the many centuries of its presence here, the building was rebuilt and reconstructed a large number of times. The last time the architectural structure underwent external changes was in the nineteenth century due to a large-scale fire.
As for visiting the palace, tourists can only get inside during the summer parliamentary recess.
Blarney Castle
This place is a fortification. Located in County Cork. The building has stood on this site for a very long time (since the 10th century) and managed to survive quite a lot of raids and attacks. Quite a lot of people lived in it, who escaped due to the fact that the walls are very well protected.
In addition, this place is known to have a stone of Eloquence. He gives talent to all those who kiss him.
St Paul's Cathedral
This beautiful church is located on Ludgate Hill. From the very beginning of the Middle Ages, Christian churches were built here. The last of them fell under Henry VIII.
The construction of the new temple began only in the seventeenth century, designed by Christopher Wren. It is also worth noting that quite a lot of famous British personalities are buried in this place, including Winston Churchill, Admiral Nelson, and many other iconic figures.
Trafalgar Square
One of the main attractions of the UK. The description should begin with the fact that tourists love it very much, since it is here thatBritish kilometer zero. It is here that numerous events are constantly arranged. Among them are carnivals, holidays and festivals. In addition, it is worth noting that this is where the main Christmas tree is installed.
The square appeared on this site in 1820 on the site of the old stables. The territory is named after the victory of the British in 1805 at Cape Trafalgar.
Isle of Skye
This island is considered one of the most beautiful corners of Scotland. People come here to enjoy nature, walk along the promenade, and also climb to the very top of Skye - Mount Kulin. In addition, there is an opportunity to see Dunvegan Castle. You can get to this place using a bridge or a ferry.
Edinburgh Royal Mile
These are several streets located in the center of Edinburgh. There are only four of them, and they go one after another from west to east. The history of the Royal Mile dates back to the 12th century. There is absolutely no way around this place. There is a very beautiful architecture, numerous shops, as well as street musicians and artists. It is on this street that the most beautiful sights of the city are located.
Conclusion
Sights of Great Britain, the list of which is very long, are considered interesting and mysterious. Of course, everyone should see them at least once.
