A blast to the past and the present
Whilst all of our cities are historic by definition, they also celebrate a range of modern attractions, creating a unique amalgam of old and new! Learn about where you can really see these contrasts below:
Bath
Named after its Roman-built Bath’s, this stunning heritage city has developed a huge reputation for wellness visits! The city’s Roman Baths were constructed in approximately 70 AD as a grand bathing and socialising complex and are one of the best-preserved Roman remains in the world. Today, it is unsafe to enter the steaming spring water of the baths, although the site has been transformed into a museum celebrating the lives of the Roman Aquae Sulis people. Discover more here.
The Thermae Bath Spa, on the other hand, allows visitors to swim and relax in its naturally warm, mineral-rich thermal waters – the only facility allowing this in Britain! Why not treat yourself to a pamper session whilst you are onsite too? Learn more about the Thermae Bath Spa here.
Cambridge
Founded in 1546, Cambridge University’s Trinity College is the best academic college in the country, and just one of the institution’s 31 colleges. Whilst it is in constant use from its 1000 students and fellows, the public is also able to enter its stunning grounds, specifically, the iconic The Great Court and chapel. Did you know that Sir Isaac Newton is an alumnus here? Outside his old room’s window, there is an apple tree which is a descendant of ‘the’ tree which led to his discovery of the law of gravitation! Learn more about this historic institution here.
In contrast, a modern arrival to Cambridge is the Lockhouse Games, an escape room complex in the heart of the city! Whether you want to try your hand at saving the world in ‘Armageddon’, find a missing archaeologist in Ancient Egypt in ‘Egyptian Tomb’, or thwart a villain’s fiendish plans in ‘Secret Agent’, the rooms offered are certain to deliver an exciting mix of fun, challenge and teamwork! The venue also hosts ‘City Escape Games’, which work on mobile phones and take place across the historic city of Cambridge. Eager to learn more? Visit their website here.
Canterbury
Since the middle-ages, pilgrims and visitors have been making their way to Canterbury Cathedral, which is today one of the most visited places in the country! The Cathedral grounds are huge with countless stunning sights to see. Highlights include The Martyrdom, The Great Cloister and Chapter House, and St Gabriel’s Chapel (which houses the county’s oldest Christian murals). Interested in discovering more about this majestic cultural gem? Click here.
The Marlowe Theatre celebrates the modernity of the city, with a state-of-the-art re-build completed in 2011! The venue attracts world-class artists and companies such as the National Theatre, Royal Shakespeare Company and Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures and Philharmonia Orchestra, promising outstanding live entertainment for all of its guests. The Marlowe does, however, have a long history in the city as it first opened shortly before the First World War. If you wish to enjoy this historic side, why not check out one of their creative activities which take place in The Marlowe Kit, a stunning wooden-beamed building in the city too! Learn more about The Marlowe Theatre here.
Carlisle
Standing in the heart of Carlisle for over nine centuries, Carlisle Castle has plenty of stories just waiting to be discovered! Learn about its turbulent history as you wander through the various castle rooms including the Warden’s Apartment and Queen Mary’s Tower, explore the sights of the city and beyond from the castle walls, and admire the artefacts in Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life! Read more about this English Heritage property here.
In contrast, Eden Rock in Carlisle allows visitors to try their hands at the ever-popular bouldering phenomena! With problems (routes) suitable for complete novices (and children) all the way up to competitive climbers, there is something for everyone in this modern Carlisle attraction! You do not need to own any special equipment for bouldering as shoes are provided, although you are welcome to bring your own should you so wish. Read more about Eden Rock here.
Chester
Chester is perhaps best known for being rich in Roman Heritage, boasting Britain’s largest Roman Amphitheatre, the county’s most complete set of Roman Walls, and stunning cobbled streets to name a few! Because of this, why not join Roman Tours on a tour of what was, at the time, amongst the most important Roman fortresses? Your tour guide will be an authentic Roman Soldier who will tell you all about Chester almost 2000 years ago. For those who enjoy interesting, factual, and fun experiences, this is certainly worthwhile! Learn more here.
In contrast, Chester’s multi-use cultural venue Storyhouse opened in 2017! Boasting a two-storey library, independent cinema, professional theatre and a stunning Eastern-European inspired dining area complete with (non-intrusive) daytime entertainment, there are options for all at Storyhouse! Did you know that it is also the public library with the longest opening hours in the country? During the Summer, you can also see shows in the magnificent Grosvenor Park with Storyhouse’s award-winning Open-Air Theatre. Read more about what is on offer here.
City of London
Beneath the cobbled pathways of the Square Mile lives The Billingsgate Roman Bathhouse. Boasting a 2,000-year history of building, fires and conflict, a tour of the attraction is truly fascinating and gives a great insight into ancient life in the City of London. Tours must be pre-booked in advance. Discover more here.
Tower Bridge is a long-renowned gem in the City of London. However, did you know that it now features a glass floor? Offering visitors an incredible birds-eye view of London life from 42 metres above the River Thames and 33.5 metres about the road, it sounds like the perfect location for incredible photography! With a mirrored ceiling, getting great photos (particularly selfies) is easy too! Learn more here.
Durham
Enjoy a fascinating visit to Durham Cathedral, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, when in this spectacular city. Founded as a Benedictine monastery in 995, visitors have always been welcome to marvel at this hilltop gem! The attraction also boasts an onsite shop, café, and an exciting LEGO replica of itself! Did you know that the parts of Harry Potter and Avengers: Endgame were filmed here too? Discover more about Durham Cathedral here.
A modernised experience in Durham city centre is the brainchild of master magician Tom Bolton, The Magic Corner. In this custom-built magic room and bar, you will experience breath-taking magic no more than a metre away from you at all times! The shows are available as standard on evenings Thursdays through Sunday. Mondays through Wednesdays will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Read more about this unique show here.
Greenwich
Located in the heart of the Maritime Greenwich and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Royal Navy College is a truly extraordinary destination. As you venture through the iconic riverside estate, you will be exposed to 500 years of rich British history, including references to monarchs and other famous British figures. For comfort, the site also features a Café, Pub, and grounds suitable for picnicking. Read more about the Old Royal Navy College here.
A relatively recent addition to the Greenwich tourism product is Up at The O2, allowing visitors 360-degree views of Historic Greenwich, The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf at any time of the day! On a clear daytime climb, you can see landmarks up to 15 miles away! Up at The O2 also offers Celebration Climbs, allowing participants to share a special occasion and toast with a Champagne Lanson on the roof! Discover more about Climb London’s Superstar Attraction here.
Lancaster
With its origins dating back almost 1,000 years, Lancaster Castle is a true historic masterpiece not only for the North West, but on a global scale too! Until 2011, it was a fully functioning HM Prison, yet today it is a living monument offering visitors insights into England’s turbulent past and the castle’s dark history through a wide variety of tours and special events! Learn more about Lancaster Castle here.
For those visitors looking for an interactive, modern experience, a visit to Jump Rush Trampoline Park in Morecambe fits the bill! Jump Rush is jam-packed with attractions including a 2m airbag, ninja zone, 100 trampoline beds, a reaction wall, and an inflatable section called Inflatarush! Did you know that they also offer a wide range of sessions including ‘Dance + Bounce’, ‘Lit Fridays’, ‘Family Bounce’ and ‘Disability Friendly’? Find out more about Jump Rush here.
Lincoln
Located just outside of Lincoln is the iconic Elizabethan Mansion Doddington Hall. The attraction consists of both gardens which remain faithful to their original layout, and the hall itself, which boasts a fascinating collection of furniture, weaponry, paintings and more, all collected during the 400+ years of unbroken family occupation. Dogs are welcome on Doddington’s free estate walks, in the stores, and the coffee shop. Learn more here.
Capitalising on the fast-growing demand for urban axe throwing in the UK, Axed Lincoln offers visitors a high-quality throwing experience, perfect for adrenaline junkies! Axed Lincoln has four dedicated lanes, and each session consists of six games, allowing for competitive fun between you and your party! Before the battle commences, read more about Axed Lincoln here.
Oxford
Home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and his family, and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace certainly boasts a rich history. When visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site, be sure to explore the 2000 acres of Brown Parkland and 90 acres of award-winning Formal Gardens. Plus, ride the train to The Pleasure Gardens, a family area basting a giant hedge maze, adventure playground, and butterfly house. The Palace itself allows visitors to explore its gilded State Rooms and priceless collections. Blenheim Palace also operates a year-round calendar of tours, exhibitions and events. Learn more here.
After visiting Blenheim Palace, why not act like royalty and experience VIP shopping at the nearby designer outlet The Bicester Village? The VIP experience provides a chauffeur service to take you to the village, as well as personal stylists and hands-free shopping options. The Bicester Village also offers a VIP lounge, children’s play area, prayer rooms, free Wi-Fi and international home delivery! Read more about the brands on offer here.
Salisbury
Salisbury has one of the country’s most famous heritage attractions on its doorstep – Stonehenge. The iconic Stone Circle, constructed around 4,500 years ago, is a true masterpiece of engineering, and no better is it understood than seeing it in real life. The Stone Circle Experience allows visitors to get up close to the world-famous monument and learn about the stones’ secrets from a knowledgeable host. Also onsite is the Stonehenge Exhibition, a café and store. Learn more about Stonehenge here.
The company GoSkydive prides itself on its tandem skydiving activities above the Salisbury plains. With options ranging from 7000ft to 15,000ft, they have experiences available for all from skydiving beginners to seasoned professionals and thrill seekers! For those who may be a little apprehensive, rest assured that GoSkydive is regulated by The National Governing Body for Skydiving and that GoSkydive uses leading parachute technology. What’s more? The team of instructors have, collectively, completed over 50,000 jumps! Read more about GoSkydive here.
Stratford-upon-Avon
It is difficult to speak of Stratford-upon-Avon without mentioning Shakespeare. With five unique properties related to his life available to visitors, you should try to visit at least one during your visit. Perhaps the most famous offering is Shakespeare’s Birthplace and childhood home. Shakespeare’s New Place was also one of the famous playwright’s residences. Hall’s Croft is the luxurious Jacobean home of Shakespeare’s daughter Susanna and her husband Dr John Hall and boats a stunning walled garden perfect for relaxing. Anne Hathaway’s Cottage was where Shakespeare courted his bride-to-be, and its nine acres of grounds allow for endless exploration. The final house is Mary Arden’s Tudor Farm, which is still a farm today. Onsite, why not meet the animals, explore the woods, try Tudor-inspired foods and learn about the Tudors in general? Read more about all of Shakespeare’s Houses here.
Although not the most recent attraction on the list, the UK’s largest tropical butterfly paradise, The Butterfly Farm, definitely showcases a different side of Stratford-upon-Avon. Featuring hundreds of butterflies from around the world, with exotic environments to match, this is an outstanding experience that changes every time you visit! The site also houses minibeasts, a Discovery Zone, and a Wildflower garden. Learn about the Stratford-upon-Avon butterfly farm here.
Truro
With its three spires and city-centre location, Truro Cathedral is one of the most majestic buildings in the city and attracts over 200,000 visitors each year. View the result of John Loughborough Pearson’s ambitious design and some of the most iconic glass windows in the country when you visit! Truro Cathedral has a busy events calendar and is mostly accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Read more about Truro Cathedral here.
Nestled inside a huge crater, The Eden Project is a new addition to Cornwall. Housing the largest rainforest in captivity as well as stunning flora, exhibitions, and an exciting year-round calendar, it is certainly worth the short commute out of Truro. For the bravest of guests, the onsite Hangloose Adventure is home to England’s longest and fastest zip wire, and aerial assault course, a giant swing and more! Read all about The Eden Project here.
Worcester
Nestled inside a beautiful Grade I listed building with an 800-year history, The Commandery museum allows visitors to learn all about Worcester’s Civil War story. Considering the building is most famous for being the Royalist Headquarters during the Battle of Worcester in 1961, its present theme seems extremely appropriate. As well as learning about the past through exhibits, The Commandery also offers an exciting events programme and stunning gardens. There is a Civil War-themed play area of Fort Royal Hill too! Learn more here.
Ranked as the fifth-best outdoor pool by The Times, the Droitwich Spa Lido makes for the ideal family day out near Worcester. It is one of the UK’s only remaining inland, open-air, saltwater swimming pools and it boasts a 40m pool, wet play area with cannons and fountains, a sun terrace and a café. Visit its official website here.
York
What was originally built as the home of a Lord Mayor is today one of York’s most insightful historic attractions, pulling in visitors from across the world! The York Mansion House is home to the city’s incredible civic treasures, gold, and silver collections, and also boasts historically significant rooms such as the State Room and the Georgian Kitchen. York Mansion House’s ongoing events calendar makes for a new experience on every visit too! Learn more about this Yorkshire attraction here.
Bridging the gap between the old and the new is the Instagrammable York History Tour. If you are someone who enjoys learning about the history of cities as much as taking stunning photographs to remember your experiences, then this is THE tour for you! Lasting for approximately three hours, the tour takes tourists off the beaten track and, with small intimate groups, you can be sure to leave with new friends too! Learn more about this innovative experience here.
And there you have it – a mixture of traditional and modern activities to enjoy in all of England’s Historic Cities! Be sure to visit the England Originals site for more historic city inspiration!
