Ceremonial gateway
London, London WC2
http://www.roll-of-honour.com/...
Review © 2007, Wcities
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Ceremonial gateway |
Trafalgar Square London, London WC2 http://www.roll-of-honour.com/... |
This ornate, Edwardian arch (which usually goes unnoticed) spans the entrance to The Mall from Trafalgar Square. Commissioned by Edward VII, the arch is actually a set of five arches in Portland stone which mark the royal route to St Paul's Cathedral. Traffic and pedestrians pass through the outer arches, while the central arch remains closed except when it is opened to allow the sovereign to pass through on state occasions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Skeet  |
 Photo: Kev Purcell |
Home of the Grand National |
Ormskirk Road Liverpool, Merseyside L9 5AS +44 151 523 2600 http://www.aintree.co.uk aintree@rht.net |
Home of the famous Martell Grand National, where visitors can take a tour around the world famous steeplechase course and enjoy a virtual reality ride over the challenging fences. The visitor center features a museum packed full of racing memorabilia and a behind-the-scenes view of life for jockeys and horses alike. Major events taking place throughout the year include the Grand National in April and Ladies Day in May. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: rastrus |
 Photo: joe neary |
Major tourist spot |
Riverside Walk Liverpool, Merseyside L3 4AG +44 151 708 7334 http://www.albertdock.com enquiries@albertdock.com |
Originally built between 1841-1848 as a prosperous working dock, the Albert Dock has since been restored as a major tourist hot spot and draws over five million visitors each year. In addition to the many shops and craft carts, there are numerous attractions including The Beatles Story Exhibition, Tate Gallery, Merseyside Maritime Museum plus Museum of Liverpool Life, Transatlantic Slavery Gallery and HM Customs & Excise National Museum. Superb bars and restaurants abound, including What's Cooking, Est Est Est and the The Pump House. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Edmondson |
 Photo: hellagood |
 Photo: Andy |
Victorian gilt |
Kensington Gardens London, London SW7 +44 1392 66 5858 http://www.exeter.gov.uk/index... ramm@exeter.gov.uk |
Queen Victoria's memorial to her cherished husband, Albert, has recently emerged from a 10-year restoration project with its mosaics and gilding fully restored to their former glory. Sir Gilbert Scott designed the folly in 1872, and Queen Victoria unveiled it in 1876. Prince Albert sits on his throne holding the catalogue of the Great Exhibition of 1851. Beneath him lie sculptures of the museums, colleges and institutions that he inspired, as well as marble statues of animals representing the different continents. Allegorical figures of Agriculture, Commerce, Manufacture and Engineering also adorn the memorial. The Albert Memorial is especially beautiful when shining in the glow of the evening sun or when lit up at night. You'll find it at the southernmost part of Hyde Park, along the stretch of road known as Kensington Gore, opposite the Royal Albert Hall. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel Shalloe |
 Photo: Rob |
 Photo: Victor Keech |
Local art and crafts |
St John's Street Cambridge CB2 1TW +44 1223 45 7446 http://www.cambridge.gov.uk/le... AnnetteJ@cambridge.gov.uk |
This unique market is located in a beautiful setting opposite the historic Trinity College. The market has been running for over 25 years and is popular with tourists and residents alike thanks to its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Everything from jewellery, pottery, sculpture, photos and prints, paintings, clothing and cheeses is available. Visitors often come across artists at work by their stalls and this is the best place in Cambridge to come by fresh designs and works direct from the creators themselves! The market is generally open on Saturdays, though at busier times of the year it may also be open on Fridays, Sundays and other days of the week. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lisa Fagg |
 Photo: Isriya Paireepairit |
 Photo: cosygreeneyes |
College of research fellows |
High Street Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 4AL +44 1865 27 9379 http://www.all-souls.ox.ac.uk/ enquiries@all-souls.ox.ac.uk/ |
Founded in 1438 by Archbishop Chichele of Canterbury as a memorial to those who died in the 100 Years War with France, its full name is The College of All Souls of the Faithful Departed. This unique college takes neither undergraduate nor graduate students, only Research Fellows. The imposing twin towers (designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor) and Christopher Wren's sundial are features of the Great Quad which was completed in 1733. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Cécile Matthey |
 Photo: Carmen |
 Photo: Jo Salmon |
Antony Gormley's landmark sculpture |
Durham Road Low Eighton Gateshead, Tyne and Wear NE9 6AA +44 191 477 3478 tic@gateslib.demon.co.uk |
Antony Gormley's Angel of the North is already beginning to rival the Tyne Bridge as an iconic representation of north-east England. Constructed of weathering steel, the same material that was used for centuries to build ships on the nearby river Tyne, it both pays tribute to the long industrial heritage of the region and symbolises the ability of local people to rise to the challenges of a post-industrial future. 20 metres high, and with a wingspan of 54 metres, it stands on a low hill next to the main southern road approach to Newcastle, and only a mile away from the east coast main railway line, where it is seen by over 30 million people every year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Brewster |
 Photo: C Jackson |
 Photo: Pikaluk |
A fascinating, labyrinthine selection of stalls |
Market Hall Arndale Centre Manchester M4 3AW +44 161 832 3552 |
This 2-floor labyrinthine, general market is a popular and fascinating permanent fixture of the Arndale Centre and offers a really wide variety of stalls. It is particularly well known for its very good food section, which specialises in great value fresh fish and poultry of all kinds. Other big attractions include the West Indian food store on the ground floor and the stall selling quality leather handbags at up to half shop prices. It's certainly worth a browse around for other bargains, particularly shoes and small electrical goods and there is always a definite buzz to the place. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
University landmark |
Western Bank Sheffield, South Yorkshire S10 2TN +44 114 222 2000 http://www.seas.ac.uk/ seas@sheffield.ac.uk |
Love it or loathe it, Sheffield University's Arts Tower is indisputably one of Sheffield's most significant landmarks. Although it has been accused of being an eyesore, it is actually a listed building, apparently deriving its style from the German architect Mies van der Rohe. The rickety paternoster lifts can be a bit disconcerting, but the view from the top floor is well worth seeing. There is also a cafe, situated on the ground floor, as well as the various university departments and lecture theatres. However, the real beauty of the Arts Tower is its visibility: whatever you might think of it aesthetically, it's a godsend if you get lost! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: el Dookie |
 Photo: Alice Robison |
 Photo: Bram Appleton |
Journey back to the age of steam |
Bath Road, Bitton Station Bath Road, Bitton City of Bristol BS30 6HD +44 117 932 7296 http://www.avonvalleyrailway.org |
Situated at Bitton Railway Station on Bath Road, Willsbridge (midway between Bristol and Bath), this stretch of track has been restored by steam enthusiasts and is a real treat for train-lovers - kid's especially love it here. Locomotives run four mile round trips every Sunday, and on selected dates when they hold special occasions such as Friends of Thomas the Tank Engine Day and a Santa Special service. The Steam Centre, housed in the restored Midlands Railway station is also open and includes a collection of steam and diesel engines and assorted rolling stock, dating back to the 1920s. There are also refreshments, toilets, and a shop. Although the site and trains are accessible to wheelchair users, there are no disabled toilets. Tickets for the train rides (excluding the special events) cost £3.50 for adults, £2 for children and £10 for a family. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephen |
Illuminated miniatures |
Hampton Avenue Babbacombe, Devon TQ1 3LA +44 1803 31 5315 http://www.babbacombemodelvill... sw@babbacombemodelvillage.co.uk |
Sightseeing is easier on the legs at this wonderful model village. Wander around beautifully landscaped gardens filled with finely detailed thatched cottages, Georgian and Tudor buildings. Soak up the sights and sounds of the English countryside and marvel at the illuminations. Streams, waterfalls and lots of delightful humorous touches are spread before you at every turn. There are undercover display areas and sound and animation features. New features include a split level viewing gallery and display centre with daytime illuminations and Alien Realm. General illuminations are on show from Easter to the end of October. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Wardell |
 Photo: John Wardell |
 Photo: Craig Bovis |
Boy Scout founder memorial and comfortable hostel |
65-67 Queen's Gate South Kensington London, London SW7 5JS +44 (0)20 7590 6910 http://www.scoutbase.org.uk/hq... bph.hostel@scouts.org.uk |
Right across the street from the Natural History Museum is this spacious concrete building, erected in 1961 in memory of Lord Baden-Powell, founder of the Boy Scout movement. Throughout the year, thousands of scouts and guides visit the house when in London, and the hostel - with 180 beds (all en suite) and conference facilities - plays host to around 300,000 people a year, from more than thirty different countries. Room charges are reduced for scouts and guides, but rates for the general public (given below) are still competitive. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ignacio izquierdo |
 Photo: ignacio izquierdo |
One of the oldest colleges |
Broad Street Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3BJ +44 1865 27 7777 http://www.balliol.ox.ac.uk/ college.secretary@balliol.ox.ac.uk |
Balliol is one of three colleges in Oxford (the other two are Merton and University) which claim to be the oldest. It's certainly true that members have lived communally on this site since 1263. Unfortunately, little remains of the ancient buildings, but a relaxing walk through the college will enable you to admire the unpretentious architecture of today. Balliol's other claim to fame is that it has produced more politicians and statesmen than any other Oxford college. Former students include Aldous Huxley, Edward Heath and Graham Greene. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Anna |
 Photo: Peter Batty |
 Photo: bronndave |
Multi-arts centre amid the tower blocks |
Silk Street London, London EC2Y 8DS +44 (0)20 7638 4141 / +44 (0)20 7638 8891 (Box Office) http://www.barbican.org.uk info@barbican.org.uk |
Suffocated by the concrete tower blocks and skinny skyscrapers that swamp the Barbican, The only way for a first-timer to locate the Barbican Centre is to pay strict attention to the yellow lines on the ground which guide you from the nearest tube stations. Architecturally, the centre is something of a 1960s-style monstrosity, but the hive of activity inside more than makes up for that. Contained in the complex you'll find the Barbican Cinema, which is always at the cutting edge of art house cinematography; the Barbican Theatre, which plays host to the Royal Shakespeare Company, among others; the Barbican Hall, home of the London Symphony Orchestra; and the Barbican Gallery, which showcases unique talent from around the world, such as Helmut Newton and Iranian contemporary artists. You can even enjoy a pre or post theatre meal at the excellent restaurant, Searcy's. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Santanu Vasant |
 Photo: Ng Siu Tung |
 Photo: Jason Webber |
Heavily defended tollgate |
At the Old Town Medieval Walls Southampton, Hampshire S014 2YD +44 2380 83 3333 |
This is the most distinctive and famous landmark in Southampton. Visible from the south end of the shopping centre, it was once a heavily defended tollgate, locked at dusk as sentries patrolled the walls. On the south side, interesting features include a 1605 watch bell, one of five originally in the town, a 1705 sundial that is six minutes out from GMT, a statue of George III imitating the classical style of the Emperor Hadrian and the old town lock ups, with graffiti dating from the 14th century. On the north side you can find 18th century shields, 13th century half-round drum towers, arrow slits and 18th century lions, part of an old Southampton legend. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ricksphotos101 |
 Photo: southampton-pubs.co. |
 Photo: Mike Whitfield |
Featuring colonnade built in 1789 |
Between Bath St and Bilbury Lane Bath, North East Somerset BA1 1EE |
The notable feature here is the colonnade built in 1789 as a covered link between the main Pump Room and Roman Baths, and the Cross Bath, which is fed by one of the city's hot springs. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Cross Bath was the bath favored by 'people of quality and rank.' Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Antonio Acuña |
 Photo: Antonio Acuña |
 Photo: Conor Lawless |
Hollow hulk |
188 Kirtling Street Battersea London, London SW8 5BP +44 20 7501 0688 http://www.thepowerstation.co.uk/ thepowerstation@pilp.com |
The Battersea Power Station awaits a new look. A team of experts plans to transform the barren industrial area into a residency township and much more. A huge cluster of hotels, leisure amenities and other recreational activities will also be constructed alongwith. With all this vision being implemented, The Power Station is predicted to be an architectural breakthrough for London. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: naughton |
 Photo: Paco Bardotti |
 Photo: Zi Yang Tan |
Somewhere Pooh and Paddington Weep |
Bear Gardens London SE1 9 http://www.elizabethan-era.org... |
Long ago, before people came to the realization that bears have souls too, Bear Gardens was home to the immensely popular Elizabethan sport of bear-baiting, where dogs were set upon chained bears and trained to kill them. Now the site is home (among warehouses and offices) to a red brick house which is part of the New Globe Theatre. The brick house displays a lone, black, stuffed bear as a memorial to the street's sordid history. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: emma webb |
 Photo: Rob Pearson |
 Photo: Flipsy |
All You Need Is Love |
Britannia Vaults Britannia Vaults, Albert Dock Liverpool, Merseyside L3 4AD +44 151 237 3925 http://www.cavern-liverpool.co... cavern@fsbdial.co.uk |
Departing from the Beatles Story Experience, visitors can travel around the city in a bright yellow bus, in fact a replica of the original from the Beatles film of the same name. An informative commentary highlights locations such as Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields, which inspired the famous song lyrics. The bus also takes visitors around former homes, hangouts and schools of the fab four. The tour finishes at the world famous Cavern Club. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joanne O'Rourke |
 Photo: Adam Howitt |
 Photo: Laura Noël |
Fruit and veg surprise in Soho |
Berwick Street, Rupert Street Soho London, London W1F 8TW |
Tucked away between Oxford and Old Compton Street, the surprise of Berwick Street Market awaits with sprucely presented stalls of fresh produce at unbeatable prices for central London. In the best popular tradition of street markets, the mouthwateringly colourful fruit and vegetable stalls have livened up this authentic Soho quarter since 1830, with jovial costermongers bawling out the benefits of the fresh greens, exotic fruits and organic vegetables. In addition, you can pick up some tasty cheese, fresh fish, home-made bread and fresh herbs from the stalls and little deli shops lining the streets in between the groovy box-sized record stores. Pass through Walker's Court to reach the clothing stalls adorning Rupert Street, full of colourful kitsch and urban threads. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Littlewood |
 Photo: Lloyd Davis |
 Photo: malias |
Hop on, hop off |
48 Buckingham Palace Road London, London SW1W ORN +44 20 7233 9533 http://www.bigbus.co.uk info@bigbus.co.uk |
You've probably seen these buses - along with London double-deckers, tour buses and more tour buses. Regardless of your usual attitude towards guided tours, these hop-on, hop-off tours are a good way to get an overview of the city, and you can make mental notes of where to go for a more thorough visit. The price you pay with The Big Bus Company is for a 24-hour ticket; during this time you can travel anywhere on the tour network, which encompasses stops over just about all of central London. Included in the price is a free walking tour and Thames River cruise, as well as numerous discounts for West End shows. Guide tapes are available in 12 languages, and the company won the London Sightseeing Tour of the Year award. Be careful when choosing the open-air rooftop, because London is notorious for fickle weather. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lisa Feigenbaum |
 Photo: Wouter kvg |
 Photo: grumpynick |
Local government HQ |
Victoria Square Birmingham B1 1BD +44 121 303 9944 |
The Council House is the seat of local government in Birmingham. Designed by Yeoville Thomason, it opened in 1878. The Town Hall was built by J A Hanson and E Welch and was based on the design of an ancient Roman temple of Castor and Pollux. The Hall was principally built for the Triennial Music Festival and the cost of construction was about £50,000 - quite a sum for the time. Although the Town Hall was actually opened in 1834, it wasn't completed until 1849 due to financial problems. Both buildings are in wonderful condition and create an imposing impression on newcomers to the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Simon Harrison |
 Photo: joe |
 Photo: Ben Jones |
Getting in the habit |
174 Queen Victoria Street London, London EC4V 4EG +44 20 7236 5474 |
This pub, dating back to 1875, is built on the site of a medieval Dominican monastery and so the monk's connection with brewing lives on. There is a fabulous copper architrave, which portrays the various duties carried out by the monks, in the main bar. The building is an odd cuneiform sliver-shape but it still manages to pack in the punters. The train rattles by, but at least you don't need to hold onto the pictures! A mixture of independent malty brews are on offer as well as good pub food (served Mondays-Fridays, midday-2.30p). After grace you can say "Amen" and drink to that. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Shey Crompton |
 Photo: Preston Grant (www.prestongrant.com) |
 Photo: Devan & Jennifer Erno |
Innovative and imaginative public space |
New Bridge Street Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE1 8AN |
In an innovative and imaginative piece of contemporary urban design, the Blue Carpet turn a little used road system in a backwater of the city centre into a striking pedestrian public square. The square on New Bridge Street in front of the Laing Art Gallery was designed by Thomas Heatherwick. The main effect of the design is the idea of huge blue carpet that has simply been dropped from the sky and left to lie where it had come to rest. Folded back sections provide seating, and discreetly lit underground spaces contain mini-galleries displaying historical artefacts. Several existing mature trees have been incorporated into the design. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bronwen Banner |
Back to the age of steam |
Sheffield Park Station Haywards Heath, East Sussex TN22 3QL +44 1825 720800 http://www.bluebell-railway.co.uk |
For over 40 years this steam railway has been taking passengers for trips through the Sussex countryside. Tickets give unlimited travel for the day and you can alight at any one of the three stations en route. Each has its own attractions: museum, pub and peaceful countryside. There is a bus service from East Grinstead Station which links to the railway. A lovely day out for all the family. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Norman Atkinson |
 Photo: Erik Ledbetter |
Designer chic |
Bond Street London, London W5 5AA |
Named after Sir Thomas Bond, the financial controller of the Queen's Household at the court of King Charles I in the 17th century, the Bond Street area was swampy, uninhabited and near a plague pit - an unsavory area where highwaymen preyed on passers-by and noblemen fought duels. By the 1850s, however, Bond Street had undergone something of a renaissance and become a place lined with fashionable shops, where members of high society would stroll the streets. And it has remained so, although tourists and shop-a-holics are its main visitors now. Nonetheless, Bond Street still has many traders who display the Royal Warrant and maintain a tradition of individual service, with many leading fashion houses where made-to-measure garments can be purchased. For lovers of art, high fashion and elegant clothes, jewelery and leather goods, there is no equal to Bond Street. Acquisitions and changes have enhanced its reputation further over the years with key fashion houses - such as Donna Karan, Calvin Klein and Louis Vuitton - opening shops. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Angela Madueño |
 Photo: richard rodkin |
 Photo: Willie Stark |
The oldest fruit and veg stall in town |
8 Southwark Street London, London SE1 1TL +44 (0)20 7407 1002 http://www.boroughmarket.org.uk/ chiefexec@boroughmarket.org.uk |
The historic Southwark district is quite lively these days, but this market has been here since 1851 and it claims to be the oldest market of its kind. The fruit and vegetarian section deals with restaurants, grocers and small businesses, with most of its trade being in bulk and concluded by sunrise. However, if you want to buy in small quantities and can get up early, some stalls will accommodate you. Fridays and Saturdays are more promising for the average market goer, with a dazzling array of fine foods available. Famous names include Clarke's and the Fresh Olive Company (+44 20 8838 1912). Other than the quaint cafes in the area, why not try the big, bright seafood restaurant, Fish! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeremy Keith |
 Photo: foodmuse |
 Photo: Alex Watson |
Known as BNC |
Radcliffe Square Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 4AJ +44 1865 27 7823 http://www.bnc.ox.ac.uk/ college.office@bnc.ox.ac.uk |
Brasenose is one of the oldest and most central of the Oxford colleges. It enjoys a unique position overlooking the beautiful architecture of Radcliffe Square, and its own buildings are of just as high a standard. The Tudor-style Old Quad, with its 18th-century sundial, is the most many visitors see as they glance in from the street. The more adventurous can visit the attractive chapel and library. The Dining Hall is usually open so you can also see the ancient "brazen nose" door-knocker from which the college gets its name. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dan taylor |
 Photo: Ian Ashdown |
 Photo: SteveOx |
London's ultimate flea market |
Brick Lane London, London E1 6QL +44 20 7770 6100 http://www.bricklanemarket.com/ events@trumanbrewery.com |
Developed during the 18th century by farmers selling livestock and produce outside the City's boundaries, the market today offers everything from fruits and vegetables to reduced-priced goods and bankrupt stock. Set among the curry houses and Asian restaurants of the vibrant Brick Lane area - home to many of London's Indian community - the market bustles with activity and is the place to find bargains on goods, including televisions, clothes, cameras, bikes and - yes - even kitchen sinks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Carla S O |
 Photo: Britta Carlsen |
 Photo: D.Gulbransen |
Hertford College link |
New College Lane Oxford OX1 3BL |
Although the building of this bridge was originally strongly opposed by New College, it has become a much admired architectural feature of the city and, despite being almost hidden in a side street, is one of the most frequently photographed and well-known landmarks in Oxford. Built in 1913-14 and named after the Ponte dei Sospiri in Venice, it links the two buildings that make up Hertford College. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wangliting |
 Photo: Brian Long |
 Photo: Zach Stone |
Victorian municipal clock tower |
Junction of West Street and Queens Road Brighton, East Sussex |
Built in 1888 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, the clock carries portraits of the Queen, Prince Albert and their son, the future Edward VII, and his wife. Above the clock is a gilt copper sphere, a time ball that once rose up a mast every hour and fell on the hour. The mechanism is no longer in use as the council had so many complaints from local residents about the noise. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: natalie |
 Photo: Stuart Yeates |
 Photo: Malcolm |
Unusual shopping experience |
31A Upper St James Street Brighton, East Sussex BN2 1JN +44 1273 62 4006 |
If any one shop can sum up the atmosphere and mixture of people in Kemp Town, it is here. An eclectic collection of the fascinating, the rare, the ornamental and the just plain useless housed in a garish pink building. Over 60 independent stalls selling a variety of antiques (some genuine), furniture, bric-a-brac and collectibles are housed within these walls. There are no pressure salesmen, so it is worth a visit, even if you have no intention of buying anything. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kate porter |
The UK's biggest yacht harbour |
Brighton Marina Village Brighton BN2 5UF +44 (0)1273 69 3636 http://www.brighton-marina.co.uk/ |
The UK's biggest marina incorporates harbourside bars, cafes and restaurants including the Brighton Pagoda, Bowlplex, a 26-lane bowling alley, UGC Cinema with eight screens, an Asda hypermarket, factory outlet shopping and boat trips. There are regular weekend events here throughout the summer, including French markets, craft fairs and street theatre. The Marina is home to many impressive and expensive yachts. The Undercliff Path begins here, which takes you along the bottom of the chalk cliffs to Saltdean. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Henry Law |
 Photo: Antonina Mamzenko |
 Photo: kazzimba |
Words for the worthy |
96 Euston Road St Pancras London, London NW1 2DB +44 20 7412 7332 http://www.bl.uk Visitor-Services@bl.uk |
The UK's national reference library is not a public library and if you want to take advantage of what's stored in its hallowed halls you'll have to obtain a reader's pass. This is granted to people doing research (primarily professional or post graduate) but if you can prove that you can't access the material elsewhere then you should be granted admission on production of identification. Fortunately, Joe Public is allowed into the three exhibition galleries for free (where the Magna Carta and Gutenberg Bible, among other items, are displayed), and there are events programmes (mainly films and lectures), and public tours on Sundays and Tuesdays, although the tours do incur a charge. The reading rooms for Oriental & India Office, Maps, Manuscripts are open from 10a-5p M, 9:30a-5p Tu-Sa and remain closed on Sundays and all English public holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robert Mertling-Blake |
 Photo: Ben Werdmuller |
Satellite linkup |
Maple Street London, London W1T 4BG |
This stalwart tower keeps London talking and is seen as both a monstrous blot on the skyline and a wonder of modern engineering. Whatever your opinion, with the majority of the city's mobile phone and internet usage controlled from this modern communications hub, formerly the Post Office Tower, it's essential for London life. The 540ft skyscraper with its huge, mushroom-shaped satellite dishes was the country's tallest building until the mundane NatWest tower eclipsed it in 1981 and can be viewed from far and wide. Unfortunately, following a bomb attack in 1971, the tower and its revolving penthouse restaurant are no longer open to the public. But its still worth taking a peek at if you're in the area - let's face it, you could hardly miss it. Oh, and by the way, its dark colour is not a result of car fumes, but is due to its tinted anti-sun glass. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: fishyfish_arcade |
 Photo: Richard Gillespie |
 Photo: Simon Kisner |
The colours of the city |
Brixton Station Road Brixton London, London SW9 8PG |
Famous for its amazing selection of fresh fruit and veg, especially those of an exotic nature, Brixton Market is one of the most colourful days out you can have in London. The market started along Electric Avenue (made famous by Eddy Grant's hit song of the same name) in the 1870s, but now encompasses most of the surrounding streets. A large range of African objects and West Indian music are here for the taking, in addition to a choice of hardware supplies, new clothes, all kinds of food, and bric-a-brac. On Sundays there's an art market in place of the usual stalls, and organic produce is available on Monday, Tuesday and Saturday. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: niv maoz |
 Photo: Jamie |
 Photo: jacqueline auvigne |
Massive multicultural market |
Electric Avenue and around Brixton London SW9 |
Nearly 400 shops and stalls make up Brixton Market across about half a square mile of streets and covered arcades. Reggae and calypso pound from every corner, to accompany your browsing in a fantastic cornucopia featuring everything from wigs and kitchen kitsch to fantastic African fabrics, Caribbean veg and huge live snails from Africa. There is also a small second-hand section in Brixton Station Road. Treat yourself to a punky hairdo courtesy of Martyn's beauty store just inside the entrance to Granville Arcade (they stock every shade of Crazy Colour there is); or just soak up the atmosphere with a pizza and a cappucino outside Eco in Market Row. Magic. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Karin Cameron |
 Photo: Lan Zhang |
 Photo: Jennie Filer |
A chocolate experience |
Linden Road Bournville Birmingham +44 121 451 4180 (24 hours)/ +44 121 451 4159 http://www.cadburyworld.co.uk/ |
Cadbury World offers plenty for both kids and chocolate-loving adults alike. There are rides, a factory tour, chocolate-making demonstrations and lots of the popular chocolates for sale at discount prices in the factory shop. You can also learn about the history of both chocolate and the Cadbury family through a series of colourful exhibitions and interactive displays. One word of warning, however: the Cadbury tour is very popular and visits should be booked in advance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Anna Briggs |
 Photo: Belinda Summerville |
 Photo: Mark Smith |
World-famous and ultra hip |
Camden High Street Camden London, London NW1 http://www.camdenlock.net info@bestofcamden.com |
Now open seven days a week, Camden Market sprawls across Camden High Street, Camden Lock Place and the Stables off Chalk Farm Road. The Camden Lock Market is great for arts & crafts and the Electric Market (Sundays only) is the place to go for the best variations on the latest high street trends. This is one of the two must-visit markets for anyone seeking street, alternative & hippie-ish styles, the other being Portobello Market. Traders sell everything from second hand clothes to cheap antiques, records, clothes & accessories, as well as decorative items. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kristina g. |
 Photo: Mike Goren |
Aladdin's Cave |
Upper Street Islington London, London N1 +44 20 7359 0190 http://www.camdenpassageantiqu... Murdochkdr@aol.com |
Camden Passage is, after Portobello Road Market, London's best antiques market, with stalls jammed full of antiques, rarities and books. Completely separate from Camden Market, you'll find the Georgian Village arcade with silver, toys and jewelery, at the northern end. The southern end is The Mall, which is really rather glamorous with its fine art and prints. Most of the shops along Camden Passage also specialize in various types of antique furniture, textiles and art. Thursdays are given over to a small book market; the selection of cheap paperbacks is excellent. The Farmers' Market runs on Sundays, and offers locally grown organic foods. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: abby chicken |
 Photo: Samuel Gething |
 Photo: Ginger Tissier |
Skyline spectacle |
1 Canada Square London, London E14 http://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk... |
London's second financial district is dominated by the tallest building in Europe. At some 800ft high, this building is officially known as One Canada Square, although you'll more commonly hear it called Canary Wharf Tower. The unique building with a pyramidal top was built by Cesar Pelli in 1991 and was the worlds first skyscraper to be clad in stainless steel. Its flashing pinnacle is a major London landmark notable many miles away. There is no public access to the interior of the building as it is reserved for the staff of the Daily Mirror, Independent and Daily Telegraph newspapers who work inside. The tower can be viewed from afar but you can get more up close and personal by visiting the marble atrium base, which is home to various shops and restaurants. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: edvvc |
 Photo: Chris Hartford |
 Photo: Matthew Lerrigo |
Where Londoners Play |
Carnaby Street London, UK http://www.carnaby.co.uk carnabymail@shaftesbury.co.uk |
Home to over 30 flagship stores of some of the world's top clothing companies - including Ben Sherman, Levi, Diesel, and Vans - you're sure to find everything you can possibly dream of here. With close proximity to Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Picadilly Circus, this is definitely where trend begins. However if your feet, along with your credit card, need a break, stop in one of the many cafe's that line the street for a pint or some coffee while you watch the latest fashions stroll down the street. This section of town definitely attracts people of all sorts, so keep your eyes, and your mind, open. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy Black |
 Photo: Ragnhild Thu |
 Photo: lynda howells |
Traditional Yorkshire quality and value |
Exchange St Sheffield, South Yorkshire S1 2XA +44 114 273 5281 http://www.sheffieldmarkets.co... |
Castle Market is a traditional, rather old-fashioned indoor market, which offers typical Yorkshire quality and value. Of the three floors, the upper two stock discount clothes, shoes, bags and toys, while the large, atmospheric basement operates as a food hall. This attracts regular customers who are drawn, week in week out, by the quality of the meat, fish and vegetables on sale. Fish is known to be a particular speciality at Castle Market and there is also a range of butchers, some of which sell rare and old-fashioned meat cuts such as tripe with vinegar. The market is extremely popular with locals, but is worth a visit for its atmosphere alone; it is one of the few areas of Sheffield to have survived almost entirely intact since before the Second World War. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sjcprojects.co.uk |
 Photo: Tim David |
Most famous club in the world |
10-Aug Mathew Street Liverpool, Merseyside L2 6RE +44 871 222 1957 http://www.cavern-liverpool.co.uk cavern@fsbdial.co.uk |
Undoubtedly the most famous club in the world, this was the birthplace of a music revolution that changed things forever. The original club closed down in 1973 to make way for an underground rail link; it moved to its present site in 1976. The club witnessed almost 300 performances by the Beatles and it was here that Paul McCartney played his last gig of the 20th century. In addition to live entertainment, there are three rooms for different tastes in music including retro, dance and party. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sherbut_dip |
 Photo: Ben Shepherd |
 Photo: John Hansen |
Renovated glory |
Broad Street Birmingham B1 2AE +44 (0)121 693 6300 |
Centenary Square is the focal point of Birmingham's New Year's Eve celebrations, which involve a huge firework display every year. It's found near the International Convention Centre, Birmingham Repertory Theatre and Hall of Memory. The square is a popular meeting place, comprising a wide open plaza with cultivated gardens. The floor of the square is laid out to resemble a Persian carpet and leads to a controversial sculpture called "Forward" by Raymond Mason. It is certainly striking, and children love to play among its figures and to use it as an impromptu climbing frame. Since the square was opened in 1991 it has been popular with both tourists and locals, providing a perfect place to relax just minutes from the bustling city centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ian Oakhill |
 Photo: Don Swift |
 Photo: michael hughes |
Timely tribute |
Warstone Lane/Vyse Street Hockley Birmingham B18 6JJ +44 121 643 2514 (Tourist Information) |
In the midst of the city's world famous Jewellery Quarter stands this green painted, cast-iron clock tower. It was one of several tributes to the noted Birmingham politician, Joseph Chamberlain, and was erected in 1903 following his diplomatic visit to South Africa at the end of the Boer War. The clock was made at the nearby Soho Clock Factory. It stands today as a testament to the affection the Birmingham people had for Chamberlain, who did much to improve the city and the lot of its citizens. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Olly Benson |
 Photo: Don Snorkie |
A picturesque plaza |
Chamberlain Square Birmingham B3 3HQ +44 121 693 6300 |
The square is named after one of Birmingham's famous mayors, Joseph Chamberlain. The Central Library and Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery are located here, as is the focal point, the Chamberlain Memorial Fountain. There is also a very lifelike statue of Thomas Attwood, a famous Birmingham banker and MP. He lies reading on the steps leading up to the library and has often been known to seriously confuse the unwitting passer-by. The Square is a busy thoroughfare and a popular place to see for both locals and visitors alike. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: CharXlotte |
 Photo: Julia Gilbert |
 Photo: BenHyperspace |
Food and character |
Liverpool Road to Penton Street Islington London, London N1 +44 20 7527 2000 http://www.islington.gov.uk/ |
Islington's high street may have the reputation of being smart in that residential-yet-hip way, but close to the tube station is a great old-fashioned market. Do your daily shopping at the food stalls and buy disposable homeware while you're at it, plus cheap clothing, electrical goods and pet food are also here for the taking. The market is constantly evolving, and there are now several stalls selling African produce such as cassava and yams. There are quite a few charity and junk shops in the area, and these too are worth rooting around for bargains. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Karin Cameron |
 Photo: Samer Rabadi |
The Blues |
Contact Centre, Stamford Bridge Fulham Road London, London SW6 1HS +44 20 7915 2900 http://www.chelseafc.co.uk/ hospitality@chelseafc.com |
Founded in 1905, Chelsea FC has one of the swankiest home grounds in Britain (what else would you expect from a club based in this area of London?). The spectacular Chelsea Village, located at Stamford Bridge, has bars, restaurants, a hotel and even a club to keep fans amused. Coach Jose Mourinho is building a stylish and cosmopolitan squad, and with the club thriving both on and off the field, hopes are high amongst 'The Blues' faithful that major silverware will soon be coming to Stamford Bridge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Scott Jungling |
Chinese art and bustling community |
Nelson Street Liverpool, Merseyside L1 2OH +44 151 709 3221 |
Europe's oldest Chinatown is situated on the outskirts of the city centre and is conspicuous by a spectacular 44ft high Chinese arch. Marking the gateway into the Chinese community, a team of Shanghai workman erected the arch in just 90 days. This magnificent example of Chinese art contains 200 hand carved dragons, 188 traditional dragons and 12 pregnant dragons. The design and colours in the arch symbolise good fortune, harmony and growth. An excellent choice of restaurants can be found in Chinatown, all of which provide authentic Chinese cuisine and very friendly service. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nic Walker |
 Photo: litrate |
 Photo: Mark Adam Porter |
Gateway to the city |
Holloway Circus Birmingham B5 4EN +44 121 693 6300 |
As you approach the city centre from the south, at the centre of Holloway Circus, you will see a large and intricately carved stone Chinese pagoda. It was made by craftsmen in Fujian province in China and was donated by local firm Wing Yip. It marks the gateway to the city and markets, is only a five minute walk from New Street station and makes a good landmark for the Chinese quarter, which is nearby. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martina Huijsmans |
 Photo: Bluewave |
 Photo: Raymond Hau |
Oxford's most well-known college |
St Aldates Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 1DP +44 1865 27 6150 http://www.chch.ox.ac.uk/ |
Christ Church is the most famous Oxford college, probably the grandest, and certainly the most photographed. Founded as Cardinal College in 1525 by Cardinal Wolsey, the college became Christ Church in 1545. The college chapel, which is also the cathedral of the Oxford diocese, contains the reconstructed shrine of St Frideswide, the patron saint of Oxford, a rich variety of stained and painted glass including works by Abraham van Linge and Edward Burns-Jones, and a rare panel depicting the martyrdom of St. Thomas A. Becket. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: R. Yan |
 Photo: Lucy Andrews |
 Photo: The Oxford Experience |
A glimpse of Dickensian Bristol |
College Green City of Bristol BS1 5BS |
This short but steep thoroughfare in the city centre has a unique Dickensian feel, with its old-fashioned street lamps and uneven cobbles. The steps were actually constructed in September 1669 and were paid for solely by a wealthy wine merchant, Jonathan Blackwell. Today, it makes a lovely place to stroll and shop and there are a number of small but high quality specialist shops as well as a couple of cafes along the Steps (some of which are closed on Mondays) - including onCoffee.net (an internet cafe), a natural shoe store, an old stamp shop and a wonderful fish and chip shop right at the bottom - sit at their tables outside and try our national dish! Wheelchair users and those with pushchairs are advised that whilst there is a great view from either the top or bottom, unfortunately there is no access to the actual steps themselves. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy |
 Photo: Dagmar Vinterova |
 Photo: Carrie Holley |
Loads of stuff |
Church Street From Edgware Road to Lisson Grove London, London NW8 |
This market dates back to the 1830s, when it only sold produce. Today the Edgware Road side sells simple everyday clothes (T-shirts, pyjamas, lingerie), DIY, and food. The Lisson Grove side is more stylish, with the famous Alfie's Antique Centre offering great antiques in all areas: jewellery, collectables, bags, vintage clothes and more. Stop by the well-known Sea Shell on Lisson Grove for a one of the best fish and chips in London. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Damien Knowles |
 Photo: surprise truck |
Modern college |
Storey's Way Cambridge CB3 0DS +44 1223 33 6000 http://www.chu.cam.ac.uk/ |
Sir Winston Churchill, Prime Minister of Great Britain in both wartime and peace, led the effort to raise money for a college emphasizing technology and industrial science. The result, Churchill College, was opened in 1960 over a mile outside the city centre. Churchill's bold, modern style was further enhanced when the Moller Centre, with its glass cone roof, was opened in 1992. The college also houses the late Prime Minister's papers. The college has unpredictable opening hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nick Oliver |
 Photo: Arvind Satyanarayan |
 Photo: Paul Yeh |
Modern shopping centre |
Churchill Square Western Road Brighton BN1 2RG +44 (0)1273 32 7428 http://www.brightonchurchillsq... manager@churchillsquare.com |
Now described as South Coast's premier shopping center, this monument was rebuilt in the late 1990s. Over 90 big shops, including zavvi, plus family restaurants and lively cafes are all under one roof, with inexpensive parking for 1,600 cars and a crèche for the youngest children. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Danny Hope |
 Photo: Jeff Hatton |
 Photo: Joao Paulo Fernandes |
A hive of activity |
Infirmary Street Leeds LS1 |
Constructed to celebrate Leeds' elevation to city status in 1893, this public space is home to one of the city's most formidable landmarks - the statue of Edward, the Black Prince. The square is flanked by impressive buildings including the Italianate Post Office building to the north, the 1930s Queen's Hotel to the south and No. 1 City Square - a striking high-tech commercial building at the edge of the city's financial center. The hub of the city, this is a great place to sit on a bench and watch the world go by - as long as you don't mind the traffic fumes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Seb Barber |
 Photo: gael |
 Photo: Piotr Dul |
Stylish, Swedish architecture |
Herschel Road Cambridge CB3 9AL +44 1223 33 2360 http://www.clarehall.cam.ac.uk/ |
Clare Hall was founded in 1966 as a postgraduate college, with Clare College as its Trustee. However in 1984 the college was granted a Royal Charter from Queen Elizabeth II, and it successfully became an independent college within the University of Cambridge. Many of its flats and student residences were designed by the Swedish architect Ralph Erskine and will be of great interest to students and fans of modern architecture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kaoru Inoue |
 Photo: Declan Conlon |
 Photo: ed_simpson_07 |
Part of Bodleian Library |
Bodleian Library Broad Street Oxford OX1 3BG +44 1865 27 7180 (Library) http://www.bodley.ox.ac.uk/ |
This is one of a number of grand and architecturally important buildings at the eastern end of Broad Street. The Clarendon was designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor (a pupil of Wren), and built in 1712 by the Oxford University Press for their printing works which had outgrown previous premises in the Sheldonian Theatre. Now it's part of the Bodleian Library, while the Press is in modern buildings a mile away. However, a felicitous reminder of its former activities is the 'Clarendon Press' imprint which can be found on all OUP books. Please note that this building is not open to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eric Hardy |
 Photo: Ben Werdmuller |
 Photo: Henry Law |
Obelisk on the Thames |
Opposite Victoria Embankment Gardens London, London SW1 http://www.akhet.co.uk/cleo.htm |
This granite obelisk was first erected in Egypt around 1500BC by Pharaoh Thotmes III. Although Cleopatra had nothing to do with the obelisk, it was named after the famous queen when it was moved to Alexandria in 12BC. In 1819, it was given as a gift to the British people in recognition of Nelson's victory over the French fleet. It was later erected on the Victoria Embankment in 1878. Magnificent bronze lions guard Cleopatra's Needle. The pink-granite monolith sits on a pedestal, within which are two earthenware containers enclosing objects which are bizarre, to say the least. Some of those objects are: bibles in various languages; a box of hairpins; a box of cigars; a hydraulic jack; copies of an engineering magazine and portraits of 12 of the most beautiful Englishwomen. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephen Zopf |
 Photo: Frankie Roberto |
 Photo: William Helsen |
Art Deco-style offices |
Colmore Row Birmingham B3 2BJ +44 121 693 6300 |
Time was when office buildings were designed with style in mind. Then they were built purely for their function. Now, architects are again increasingly giving thought to the appearance of their creations. Colmore Gate is a fairly recent addition to the Birmingham skyline, and a welcome one it is too. Opposite Snow Hill railway station in the city centre, its style more than hints at Art Deco. This bluish glass and chrome landmark is completed by somewhat abstract stained glass designs around the ground floor windows. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Southall |
'Happy Gardening'! |
Columbia Road London, London E2 7RG http://www.columbia-flower-mar... columbia_flower_market@btinternet.com |
Are you planning to transform your drawing room into a mini garden? Then Columbia Road is where you should halt. This Flower Market offers you fantastic deals in your floral pursuits! Visit this place on a Sunday and treat your eyes to a colorful and exotic exhibition of fresh flowers and bouquets put up for sale. Gardeners and nursery owners, in need of cheap yet quality products are regular customers of the market. Apart from a wide selection of garden products, the market also has a few potteries that sell hand made pots. And if you are exhausted after a long walk along the street, stop over at one of the small eateries for a quick bite. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: J. Nordberg |
 Photo: salimfadhley |
Lilies or Lisantheums |
Columbia Road Hackney London, London E2 http://www.columbia-flower-mar... columbia_flower_market@btinternet.com |
A great Sunday morning out. Arrive early for breakfast at one of the cafés, and stroll amongst the plants, bulbs and cut flowers. But if you want the best bargains, wait until the end of the day (that is, late morning!) when cut flowers and pot plants are sold cheaply - but if you hate crowds, get there, do your business, and leave early. Stalls span a large stretch of the beautiful cobbled street, which has original Victorian shop fronts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Amanda Moulson |
 Photo: dan robinson |
 Photo: Kerstin Martin |
Small and attractive |
Merton Street Beside Merton College Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 4JF +44 1865 27 6700 http://www.ccc.ox.ac.uk/ |
Founded in 1512 by Bishop Foxe of Winchester, this is one of the smallest Oxford colleges. Foxe was blind, so after the college had been built he was guided round the front quadrangle three times in order to trick him into thinking it was much bigger than it really was. In the middle of the attractive, paved front quadrangle is Turnbull's sundial (built in 1579-83), which is actually 27 sundials topped with the founder's emblem - a pelican representing the Body of Christ (Corpus Christi). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Roberto Lérida Lafarga |
 Photo: Chris Tester |
 Photo: Dave Morris |
Boutiques, books and electrical goods |
Covent Garden & Soho London, London |
An open-air party atmosphere still pervades in Covent Garden's Piazza. The 18th-century iron and glass former fruit and vegetable market has evolved gracefully and now houses a craft market, fashion boutiques and other upmarket stores which are a great place to pick up gifts. Stroll down Long Acre, Floral Street and cobbled Neal Street for good quality high street brands. Charing Cross Road is where to go if it's books you're after as there are shops specialising in everything from crime to medicine and law. Electrical goods can be found on Tottenham Court Road where wide boys in ties wheel and deal. Buy beautiful gifts at Covent Garden and wardrobe staples from the surrounding streets. Book worms will love the specialist book stores on Charing Cross Road and techy boffins will enjoy haggling for electrical goods on Tottenham Court Road. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: TwoCrabs |
Mimers, market and a mechanical museum |
The Market Covent Garden London, London WC2E 8RF +44 870 780 5002 http://www.coventgardenmarket.... aspedding@nelson-bakewell.com |
This area was formerly home to London's fruit and vegetable market, which has now moved down to the New Covent Garden Market in Bermondsey. Today, it is a collection of stores that sell a variety of goods, from antiques and crafts to pictures and handmade clothing. There's also an open-air cobbled area where miming and juggling acts can occasionally be found. Musicians regularly play in the pretty courtyards around the market stalls. There are also a few places to eat lunch or grab an ice cream. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dhruba Bandopadhyay |
Multi-purpose shopping and eating |
High Street Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 |
The Covered Market is a delightful place to wander around. It offers protection from the elements, but looks nothing like your average shopping centre. The avenues here are crammed with small shops and cafes, and the products on offer are all of good quality. The shops sell everything from clothes and fresh pasta to books and boots: you'll find butcher's shops alongside souvenir shops and greengrocers. After all that shopping there are plenty of small cafes where you can relax and soak up the atmosphere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike Almond |
 Photo: Chris Jennings |
 Photo: aaroscape |
Victorian railway architecture at its best |
Curzon Street Birmingham B4 7XG |
This landmark neoclassical building stands as a monument to the golden age of railway architecture. It wasn't enough in those days for functional buildings to be purely functional - they had to look good too. "Those days" were in 1838, when the station was the terminus of the London to Birmingham railway. Although Curzon Street isn't too far from the city centre, New Street is more central and was to become the city's main station. Curzon Street lived on as a goods station, but incredibly this building has been threatened with demolition on several occasions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mike warren |
 Photo: mattii70 |
 Photo: Andrea Jaschinski |
Living testimony to the bygone days of sail |
King William Walk Greenwich London, London SE10 +44 20 8858 3445 http://www.cuttysark.org.uk enquiries@cuttysark.org.uk |
The Cutty Sark is the last surviving tall ship left in the world. Designed by Hercules Linton, the Cutty Sark was renowned throughout the seafaring world as one of the fastest ships of the period. After a colorful career, she was moved to a dry dock in Greenwich in December 1954. Officially opened in 1957 by Her Majesty the Queen, she's been visited by over 13 million people since. The number of 'the old lady's' admirers are bound to increase, as she remains a living testimony to a glorious bygone era of sail and Empire. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Newton |
 Photo: Lady Banana |
Views while you punt! |
Silver Street Cambridge CB3 9EU +44 1223 33 5660 http://www.dar.cam.ac.uk/ deanery@dar.cam.ac.uk |
After World War II, it became apparent that there was a shortage of postgraduate places in Cambridge. Therefore in 1963, fellow colleges funded the establishment of Darwin College, located in a house belonging to a descendant of the naturalist Charles Darwin. The college is modern and has rooms backing on to the Mill Pond, the starting point of many a punting journey. The college has unpredictable opening hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Damjan Vukcevic |
 Photo: Wenjin Xu |
 Photo: Wo-Shing Au |
National Trust open space |
Devil's Dyke Road Brighton BN6 9DY +44 (0)1273 83 4830 |
Devil's Dyke offers outstanding views over the South Downs, the western Weald to the north and the English Channel to the south. This National Trust landmark is still a favourite day out for Brighton families. Legend has it that the dyke, a deep valley, was created by the devil in an attempt to flood the Weald but he was disturbed when an old woman put a lighted candle in her window. The best way to get there is by open-topped bus from Brighton Pier, which runs at hourly intervals throughout the summer. There is a National Trust information point at the top and a pub. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: QUON |
 Photo: Tamas Zador |
 Photo: Dionisios Lefkaditis |
Earliest university building |
Catte Street Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3BW |
This is the oldest university - as opposed to college - building in Oxford. It is also one of the most imposing and one of the most easily missed by the unsuspecting visitor. It is entered via Old Schools Quad through the door behind the statue of the Earl of Pembroke. It was built in 1420-1483 and the initials or coats of arms of those who contributed to the cost are carved on the bosses of the magnificent ceiling. Initially, the building was used for Divinity lectures and examinations but it now forms part of the Bodleian Library. It also houses a chair made from the timbers of Sir Francis Drake's ship - the Golden Hinde - when it was broken up. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christopher Porter |
 Photo: Helen Cotterill |
 Photo: chillicheese |
Dominating the musical scene |
268-269 Tottenham Court Road London, London W1T 7AQ +44 (0)20 7580 0246 http://www.camden.gov.uk/ccm/c... |
The Dominion is a major West End house, although it's situated just outside Soho and theatreland on the chaotic corner of Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road. It has a huge seating capacity with over 2,000 seats in the stalls, and around another 2,000 in the circle and boxes. There are licensed bars on each level of the theatre. The theatre is a landmark in the theatre business. An institution since the 1930s, it has played host to some of the most famous musicals in the world, like Sound Of Music, South Pacific and the hip shaking musical, Grease. It is also known for being one of the first halls to show a 'talking' movie. If you want to catch a quality performance or a movie, then this is the best place to come to...with its extensive playbill, there is something for everyone to watch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ben Scicluna |
 Photo: Andrea Dell'Amico |
Sheffield's Athletics Stadium |
Worksop Road Main Reception - Don Valley Stadium Sheffield S9 3TL +44 (0)114 223 3600 http://www.donvalleystadium.co... info@donvalley-stadium.co.uk |
Don Valley, Sheffield's most impressive sports stadium, regularly hosts national athletics events. It has a magnificent track and field stadium surrounded by covered and uncovered seating, as well as a further training track, which is used by local athletics clubs. The complex also holds a fitness gym, which is equipped with a wide selection of CV and weight machines, as well as tennis courts (which can be hired by the public). Football and hockey pitches can also be rented. Don Valley is currently the home of the amateur Sheffield Football Club. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Green |
 Photo: Gareth Kelleher |
 Photo: Paul Cowell |
Seafront sculpture |
Kings Road Arches Brighton BN1 1NB +44 (0)1273 29 0000 (Tourist Information) |
Right on the beach, next to Brighton Pier, jutting out into the sea, is a large circular sculpture, a gift from the Mayor of Naples, officially called The Big Green Bagel but known locally as the "Seasick Doughnut". This unique piece is both loved and loathed by the resident's of Brighton and has been the subject of many a heated debate in the past. One thing is for sure, you certainly can't miss it! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ryan Hill |
 Photo: Tracy Walker |
 Photo: Anne Walley |
Big musicals behind the neo-classical facade |
Catherine Street London, London WC2B 5JF +44 20 7494 5000 http://www.londontheatre.co.uk... |
The Drury Lane Theatre Royal is famous for its long running musicals, including My Fair Lady and the now departed Miss Saigon. It's the world's largest working theatre and the auditorium seats 2,300 people, and has been in use since 1663. Tours of the theatre are available every day - costumed guides take you through its history and the people associated with it - the latter include playwright Richard Sheridan, actress (and mistress) Nell Gywnne, and the clown Grimaldi. There are seats reserved for wheelchairs. All wheelchair users must contact customer services when booking. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jared and Corin |
 Photo: Corey Meredith |
Go east down south |
East Street Between Walworth Road and Dawes Street London, London SE17 |
East Street market is a busy local market which primarily serves the needs of the community around it; you won't find any antiques or crafts here, but you will find absolutely anything that's edible or wearable. Sunday is the best (and busiest) day to visit - stalls selling bargain fruit and veg, clothing, plants and bric-a-brac are squashed in between the street's shops so it's not a good place to visit if you don't like crowds. There are a few pleasant surprises if you take time to look at the shops and cafes themselves - Barneys Textile Centre sells some lovely fabrics, and Er In Dawes is the epitome of the greasy-spoon cafe. East Street also has one other claim to fame - it's the birthplace of Charlie Chaplin. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Manne |
 Photo: Lawrence McGovern |
 Photo: Susanna Hauru |
Stock up - everything's so cheap |
Eastgate Road Bristol BS5 6XY +44 (0)117955 1351 (St. Werburghs Centre) office@stwerburghs.org.uk |
A great example of how shopping used to be, this popular general market has been established for 35 years and can be found these days near the big Ikea store just off the M32 at junction two. It certainly couldn't be described as glamorous shopping, but if you're after a slice of gritty English life, look no further. It's packed every week with locals looking for cheap vegetables, meat, clothes, material, music and almost anything else you could think of. The prices are well below those of the average shops, especially if you wait until it's almost closing, when you can come away with boxes of fruit and veg at a fraction of the normal cost - and then spend the rest of the week wondering what to do with two kilos of mushrooms! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: andy hebden |
Monument to the people's poet |
Weston Park Western Bank Sheffield, South Yorkshire S10 2TJ |
This statue of Ebenezer Elliott used to stand in Sheffield market place but it can now be found in Weston Park, near the south gate at Western Bank. Nothing about the statue reveals anything about the man - it is inscribed with just the single word "Elliott". What perhaps tells the visitor more about Ebenezer Elliott is that the statue was erected by subscriptions from "working men". Elliott was a poet (known locally as the "Poor Man's Poet") who protested against the unfair Corn Laws and sought a better society for Sheffield workers and local peasantry. He died in 1849 and is buried in Darfield church yard. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Lucas |
College with medieval gatehouse |
Turl Street Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3DP +44 1865 27 9600 http://www.exeter.ox.ac.uk academic.administrator@exeter.ox.ac.uk |
Today, Exeter is best known for two of its former undergraduates: the writer J R R Tolkein, and Roger Bannister, who became the first person to run a mile in less than four minutes in 1954. In fact, the history of the college goes back much further, to the early 14th century. Founded by the Bishop of Exeter in 1314, the college was mostly rebuilt in the 17th century, but you can still see the medieval gatehouse, Palmer's tower. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Noël |
 Photo: Matt Sellers |
 Photo: Ash Rust |
How shopping should be |
Green Park Station Green Park Road Bath, Wiltshire BA1 1JB +44 1225 47 7101 |
Well done Sainsburys! How refreshing to find a supermarket happy to allow a farmers market to take place in the car park. Twice a month, Sainsburys opens the car park for local farmers to tout their wares. Potted meats, organic vegetables, honey, cider, eggs, cheeses, pates, plants, flowers, wine and apple juice and fish can be found amongst the many stalls. The quality of the produce is high and the producers are always happy to give you advice on how best to store and cook the products. Market day also brings entertainment to Green Park, be it in the form of jugglers, music or theatre groups. The neighbouring brasserie also opens its doors to hungry shoppers and offers special reductions on coffee and pastries, well worth a visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: keri |
 Photo: www.iSew.biz |
Fresh meat, drink and veg |
New Street Birmingham B2 4JH +44 121 643 2514 marketstalls@birmingham.gov.uk |
A fairly recent addition to the market scene in Birmingham, the Farmers' Market is held along the top end of New Street on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. It is exceedingly popular, and the array of fresh food is positively beguiling. You can buy organic meats, vegetables, cheeses and wines, and scoff yourself silly on ostrich burgers while you do so. Prices are highly competitive and the quality far better than anything you'll find in the nearby food halls and stores. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marcia DeFiore |
 Photo: CaptCuervo |
Live green on the Green |
Po Box 373 London N1 7WB +44 20 7704 9659 http://www.lfm.org.uk info@lfm.org.uk |
This Sunday market is popular with those who love the notion of organic food redeeming their comfortable, post-liberal lives. Of course, everyone knows that home-grown food tastes better as well, so you'll be one step closer to succeeding with that recipe in one of those best-seller cookbooks that dominate your weekends. All the produce has been grown/reared by the farmers themselves, which means you can ask whether or not it is organic, how to cook it, etc. Vegetables, fruit, bread, meat and other produce available. Other farmers' markets are cropping up all over London. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: aaroscape |
 Photo: aaroscape |
Acclaimed chapel |
Huntingdon Road Cambridge CB3 0DG +44 1223 33 2000 http://www.fitz.cam.ac.uk/ |
In 1869, the University established a Non-Collegiate Students Board for those who couldn't afford full college membership. Known as Fitzwilliam House, this later became Fitzwilliam College in 1966 when a full college site was established on Huntingdon Road. The college's modern buildings and its chapel include acclaimed architectural designs. The 125 year-old institution can also boast of famous honorary fellows such as the King and Queen of Spain and the Spanish heir to the throne, Prince Felipe. Famous alumni include Norman Lamont and Derek Pringle. The college has unpredictable opening hours. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Horace Ko |
 Photo: Ben Colburn |
 Photo: Anya Jones |
Five mile riverside walk through Sheffield's revitalised East End |
Wicker Sheffield, South Yorkshire S3 8HS +44 114 273 4448 |
The Five Weirs Walk, which starts on The Wicker, follows the River Don north from the city centre to Meadowhall. The footpaths are surfaced and well-maintained and the route is clearly signed. At one time, this part of Sheffield was home to an extraordinary number of steelworks. However, recent years have seen the regeneration of the area and this route now offers the opportunity to enjoy an easy riverside walk with excellent views of the weirs and other remnants of the city's industrial heritage. There are numerous public houses adjacent to the footpath, many of which are open during the day for refreshments. The path is also suitable for the use of cyclists and wheelchairs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: *Pete |
 Photo: www.rogerbutterfiel |
 Photo: Elaine |
Extra! Extra! |
Fleet Street London EC4 |
Fleet Street has a long history and is famous for being the center of the British press from as far back as the 16th century. Although technological advances of the last 20 years moved publishing away from this area, Fleet Street still harbours an amazing amount of history and historic sites to visit. While in the locale, check out the stunning Saint Brides church, as well as some of the local pubs, including Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, one of Charles Dicken's haunts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: RandomMoth |
 Photo: Steve Mahoney |
 Photo: Kevin Malone |
An English shopping experience |
181 Piccadilly London, London W1A 1ER +44 20 7734 8040 http://www.fortnumandmason.com/ |
Here, amongst Fortnum & Mason's luxurious surroundings, the British Empire lives on. Small and always heaving with tourists, Fortnum and Mason is much more than just the Queen's grocer. With full carpeting and chandeliers, department store shopping takes on a whole different meaning. F&M's packaging is traditional and elegant, and is free when you buy any gift (except food, which is a pity, as the Food Hall is F&M's highlight) and there's a vast selection of own-brand teas, coffees, wines and provisions to choose from. Also, make sure you stop to see the curious fountain by the doors. But F&M is most famous for its inimitable hampers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Belam |
 Photo: seekaltroutes |
Famous cultural landmark |
Peter Street Manchester M2 3NQ +44 161 834 3697 |
Recently re-opened after extensive refurbishment, this iconic brick edifice is one of Manchester's most famous landmarks and is a major local sightseeing attraction, thanks to its rich history of hosting important social and cultural events.Originally opened in 1856, the hall was once the home of the world-renowned Halle Orchestra, but in its day, it has also played host to many major contemporary bands and musicians, such as the legendary Bob Dylan concert of 1965. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Guy Hatton |
 Photo: K.F.Dawson |
Healthy eating for the inspired |
49 Parkway Camden London, London NW1 7PN +44 (0)20 7428 7575 http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/ |
Step inside Freshlands and you may have to pinch yourself to ensure you are not dreaming. A fantastically drool-worthy in-house bakery, fresh-juice counter and organic coffee service await you. But that's not all. There is also fresh produce, a vitamin corner, a mini health-oriented book section and rows of bins filled with nuts, dried fruit, couscous and basmati rice. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jason Black |
Hosts Manchester's biggest events |
Windmill Street Manchester M2 3GX +44 161 834 2700 http://www.g-mex.co.uk mailbox@g-mex.co.uk |
This was once the old Central Railway Station. Today, it is not only an impressive exhibition and events center, it's also a local landmark that mixes modern architectural flair with Victorian elegance. Designed for versatility, it makes an ideal venue for sporting events and concerts. The retractable acoustic sails make it so that several events can go on at the same time. The Seminar Center is also frequently used as a totally separate venue. It even has its own bar-restaurant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Raymond Hau |
 Photo: Dave Arquati |
 Photo: Gary Leeming |
The world's first tilting bridge |
St Mary's Church Oakwellgate Gateshead, Tyne and Wear NE8 2AU +44 191 477 5380 http://www.gateshead-quays.com tourism@gateshead.gov.uk |
The pedestrian and cycle crossing links Newcastle Quayside with the major redevelopment projects such as the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, and the Gateshead Music Centre on Gateshead Quays. It is the first tilting bridge in the world, and is designed to resemble a blinking eyelid when it is raised to permit ships to pass beneath. The bridge forms part of a one mile circular riverside walk taking in the Swing Bridge to the west. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marius Watz |
 Photo: Sam Judson |
 Photo: John H |
World-class contemporary and classical music venue |
Tyneside next to the Tyne Bridge Gateshead, Tyne and Wear NE8 2YR +44 191 443 4666 / +44 191 443 4661 http://www.thesagegateshead.org/ Helen.Charlton@thesagegateshead.org |
This Music Centre is a £60 million project which is central to the redevelopment of Gateshead Quays, fronting the river Tyne opposite Newcastle's famous Quayside area. Designed by internationally renowned architect Norman Foster, this stunning building will house a 1650 seat concert hall, a 400 seat studio, a music school with teaching, practice, and rehearsal rooms, a state of the art Music Information Centre together with bars, cafes and retail units. It will be the home for Northern Sinfonia and Folkworks - both key organisations in the region's musical life. The Music Centre will be linked to the flourishing Newcastle Quayside by the (pedestrian and cycle only) Gateshead Millennium Bridge. Just a short walk along the Quay is the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Erika Tanith |
 Photo: blueskyday_uk |
 Photo: Jeanne Davies |
Full-size replica |
6A Clink Street Horseshoe Wharf London, London SE1 9FE +44 7403 0123 http://www.goldenhinde.co.uk/ info@goldenhinde.co.uk |
This is a full-size replica of Sir Francis Drake's ship, which was the first English ship to circumnavigate the world. The ship, which floats between Southwark Bridge and London Bridge, now holds a maritime museum. With crew in full period dress and the opportunity to hire the boat for pirate parties, it's a great moment of escapism for those infatuated with all things maritime. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bimbling Along |
 Photo: Skyring |
More about the Square |
Golden Square London, London W1F 9LA |
Lying to the north of Piccadilly Circus, is Golden Square—a small park formerly known as the Gelding Square. The statue of a mythical figure, Georgiys II, stands right in the middle of the square. The benches placed around the square usually have teenagers or older people sitting, catching up on gossip. The square is popular as a political and ambassadorial district housing many embassies. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Simon Lock |
 Photo: Elly Reynolds |
 Photo: Nick Clement |
Not a chain store in sight |
Neville Street (Canal Basin) Leeds LS1 4BR +44 113 244 6570 http://www.granary-wharf.co.uk |
Recently modernised (having undergone a "Millennium Facelift"), Granary Wharf provides a unique shopping experience. Set beside Leeds' waterfront, the Wharf offers shoppers a dizzying array of items, from African beer and rare musical instruments to exotic art and home furnishings. It is definitely the place to visit if you want a break from city-centre chain stores. The Festival Market takes place on weekends and bank holidays, and features entertainment such as juggling, dancing and music. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Per-Stian |
 Photo: Raymond Theakston |
Focus on medicine |
Woodstock Road Oxford, Oxfordshire OX2 6HG +44 1865 27 4770 |
This college was founded in 1977 by Cecil Green (the founder of Texas Instruments) and his wife Ida. Medicine had always been one of the major subjects at Oxford University but from the 16th century, Edinburgh and London universities became the pre-eminent seats of learning for future British medical practitioners. In the 1940s, more and more undergraduates chose to study medicine at Oxford and soon the need to create a graduate college specializing in clinical medicine became overwhelming. Cecil Green (who had actually been born in Manchester before emigrating with his family to Canada) was persuaded to finance the new college which achieved full status in 1979. Visits possible at most times on application. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Pritchard |
 Photo: KT Lindsay |
 Photo: Fei Yan |
Several markets rolled into one |
Greenwich High Road Greenwich London, London SE10 |
Greenwich Market is actually several markets in one, and if it wasn't for what remains of the Millenium Dome in the background you could probably completely forget you're in London. Anyway, those markets are: Bosun's Yard, Greenwich Church Street, an indoor craft market selling great foodstuff; The Flea Market, Thames Street, which is often missed as it's hidden away in a back street and sells every sort of bric-a-brac imaginable; Greenwich Antiques Market, Greenwich High Road, doesn't actually have many antiques, but does have lots of books, clothes, music & jewellery; the Central Market, Stockwell Street, the largest part of the market selling everything from kitsch for the home to Thai food, furniture & books; and The Craft Market, Greenwich Church Street. Come here for handmade clothes, rugs & pottery. Phew! What more could you want? Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: seb agudelo |
 Photo: Peter Pomelov-Zhilinsky |
A taste of Asia |
17 Bond Street North Laine Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1RD +44 1273 69 5451 |
So you've been to Asia but couldn't fit everything you wanted to buy into your backpack? No problem. The Greenwich Village collective has transported the best of the rest you left behind to this indoor market in North Laine. There are gorgeous saris, Indian jewellery and a huge choice of bindis. Ethnic clothes from children's sizes can be bought at the stall near the entrance, whilst the back of the market holds an eclectic collection of furniture, parasols, windchimes and music with an eastern influence. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: miariddle |
Central landmark and meeting place |
Grey Street Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE1 7RU |
Grey's Monument has been a landmark meeting place for locals and visitors since its erection in 1838. Built to commemorate the services of Charles, Earl Grey (1764-1845) to the nation. As Prime Minister, Earl Grey, a tireless anti-slavery campaigner, steered the Great Reform Bill (1832) into law. Standing 135ft high, the Monument is at the heart of the shopping area of the city and looks down Grey Street, which was described by no less a person than the former poet laureate Sir John Betjeman as the finest curved street in Britain. It is a key part of the classical heritage of Newcastle. Behind is the Monument Mall shopping area and Eldon Square shopping centre is a few paces away. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Raymond Tough |
 Photo: GetCarter2007 (PH) |
World Heritage Site |
The A69 between Newcastle and Carlisle runs parallel to Hadrian's Wall Newcastle upon Tyne, NBL NE99 1DX http://www.hadrians-wall.org info@hadrians-wall.org |
The Romans built Hadrian's Wall in about AD122, defining the northernmost limit of the Roman Empire in Britain at that time. It ran 73 miles, coast to coast, and consisted of a stone built wall around seven metres high with a ditch to the north and a bigger bank and ditch earthwork (the Vallum) to the south. Turrets, milecastles, and forts were built at regular intervals. The course of the wall ran from Segedunum at Wallsend on the East Coast through Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Esther Millea |
 Photo: Adam Waldron |
 Photo: Kyle Williams |
Lest we forget |
Centenary Square Birmingham B1 2DY |
An imposing building of white Portland stone, the Hall of Memory is a fitting tribute to the fallen in all major conflicts of the 20th century. It is located in a prominent position near the International Convention Centre. The focus of Remembrance Day activities in the city, it has sculptures representing the armed services on each of its sides and inside are books with the names of those who lost their lives, as well as impressive stained glass windows. An inscription inside the hall gives the sobering statistics - of 150,000 local people who went off to war, 12,320 fell and 35,000 were disabled. The visitor is reminded to note that their sacrifice was not in vain. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ivan |
 Photo: stephen boisvert |
College for mature students |
Mansfield Road Oxford University Campus Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3TD +44 1865 27 1006 |
From 1581 until 1871, religious non-conformists were barred from studying at Oxford. Manchester College (founded in Manchester in 1786 on the principle of religious liberty) however, provided higher education for those excluded from Oxford on religious grounds. The college finally moved to Oxford in 1889. It is housed in attractive buildings in Mansfield Road, and students wishing to live in college accommodation could hardly be more fortunate - many of them have lodgings in the beautiful 17th-century houses that line nearby Holywell Street. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter Mark Shaw |
Stylish riverside shopping and restaurant complex |
20 Hay's Galleria Tooley Street London, London SE1 2HD +44 20 7940 7770 http://www.haysgalleria.co.uk marketing@samaprop.co.uk |
This commercial development, formerly known as Hays Wharf, was opened in 1987 and today is a bustling, charming place to enjoy al fresco lunches, great views and both original and high street shops. The Hays Galleria is also home to the Hays Gallery which features fine art from modern and new artists. Special events are often held here, including the fireworks shows on Guy Fawkes' Day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Surinder Singh |
 Photo: hanneorla |
 Photo: shining example |
College dating from the 13th century |
Catte Street Oxford OX1 3BW +44 1865 27 9400 http://www.hertford.ox.ac.uk/m... |
Hertford College is one of the most photographed colleges in Oxford. The buildings themselves aren't particularly grand, but linking two of them is the pretty Bridge of Sighs which features on many an Oxford postcard. The bridge dates from 1913, and most of the college isn't much older than this. In its early days, Hertford had to fight for its existence against the expansionist plans of its neighbour Magdalen Hall. It was only when Magdalen was almost completely destroyed by fire in 1820 that Hertford's future was assured. Since then it has developed a reputation as one of the friendliest colleges in the university. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jerry Spiller |
 Photo: ricambi originali |
 Photo: mattcyp88 |
George Eliot and Karl Marx |
Swain's Lane Highgate Village London, London N6 6PJ +44 20 8340 1834 http://highgate-cemetery.org/i... |
There are mausoleums, catacombs and ornate crumbling tombs of eminent writers, politicians and artists in the rambling, overgrown west section of this woodland graveyard. Celebrity corpses include Karl Marx, Michael Faraday and Christina Rossetti. Be aware that you must purchase a photography license in order to take photographs within the cemetery. Take advantage of the special guided tours. There are no weekday tours in December, January and February. The tour charge will cost £5.00 from the September 1st, 2005. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dave Goodman |
 Photo: Dean Ayres |
 Photo: Stuart Palmer |
Modern, education-based college |
Hills Road Cambridge CB2 2PH +44 1223 50 7111 http://www.homerton.cam.ac.uk/ |
Homerton College, located south of the city centre, was founded in 1768 as a London-based seminary for church ministers. It moved to Cambridge in 1894 as a teacher-training college and has retained this role to the present day. Presently, the college is one of the two institutions that make up the Faculty of Education of the university and it teaches both undergraduate education courses, as well as postgraduate teacher training degrees. The college has unpredictable opening hours. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jared and Corin |
 Photo: Rob Jones |
A park with a history |
Hoxton Square London, London N1 6PD +44 (0)20 7234 5800 (Tourist Information Centre) |
Hoxton Square is a small park located in the well-known Hoxton area of London. A number of famous celebrities and artists like Alexander McQueen, Tracey Emin and Gavin Turk have made their homes here. Hoxton was known as a hot spot for fashion aficionados and artsy folk through the 80s and 90s, and a number of restaurants, cinemas and other entertainment venues also began mushrooming here. Hoxton Square Park remains the main attraction, surrounded by a number of industrial buildings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: betsy greer |
 Photo: Ricardo Rmx |
 Photo: Michael Hohl |
Oldest graduate college |
Mortimer Road Cambridge CB1 2EW +44 1223 33 4898 http://www.hughes.cam.ac.uk/ enquiries@hughes.cam.ac.uk |
The farthest east of the Cambridge colleges, Hughes Hall is also the oldest graduate college. It is located on a site off Mill Road and was originally the Cambridge Training College for Women Teachers, established in 1885. Miss Hughes was the first principal of the college and had always argued in favour of the benefits of a mixed, co-educational system. In honour of her the college was renamed Hughes Hall in 1949. The college has unpredictable opening hours. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: niosama |
 Photo: Marja Hanussek |
Not your ordinary film experience |
Anchor Road, Harbourside Bristol BS1 5DB +44 117 915 1000 http://www.at-bristol.org.uk/i... information@at-bristol.org.uk |
What is an IMAX cinema? Well, the name comes from the type of film and projector used, called "Image Maximum". This basically means that everything is 10 times as big as in a normal cinema and when you're seated in the 350 capacity auditorium, you feel as though you're inside the film itself - thanks to the massive screen and digital surround sound system. Truly amazing - a bit on the expensive side but definitely worth a visit. Films shown vary, but there is usually something about dinosaurs (the kids' choice), a natural history type film and probably one about technology of some kind. Whatever film is on, remember you're going for the whole spectacle of the thing - plot and acting are secondary. With everything being so life-like and large, certain films can be scary for youngsters, so check beforehand. Admission: adults £6.50, children £5.50, concs £4.50, family £19. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: www.msmoll.co.uk |
 Photo: corbs83 |
 Photo: Nick Tonkin |
Groceries et al |
Edgbaston Street Birmingham B5 4RB +44 121 622 0201 |
Saturday mornings are not complete for many locals without a trip to the indoor market, and it is a great experience for visitors. There are over 150 stalls trading in a variety of goods and it provides some excellent entertainment. You can buy fresh fish and seafood, fruit and vegetables, herbs, pulses and nuts, ribbons, material and children's toys. Fast food, notably fish and chips, is also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chellbie |
 Photo: mesogeia |
International meeting place |
Broad Street Birmingham B1 2AE +44 121 200 2000 |
A striking modern building, opened in 1991, the ICC faces on to Centenary Square and is ideally situated for central hotels and amenities. Of particular architectural interest is its angular design and impressive neon sculpture in the foyer. It has hosted many conventions of international importance and was a focal point for the G8 Summit meeting of world leaders in 1998. It also houses the entrance to the Symphony Hall, has a small cafe on the lower floor and contains conference rooms and halls to suit all but the very largest events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: vitaee™｜Shu Di |
 Photo: Martin O'Connell |
 Photo: Karen Cameron |
Controversial rusting sculpture |
Victoria Square Birmingham B1 1BD +44 121 693 6300 (Tourist Information) |
The Iron Man sculpture by Anthony Gormley (also responsible for the much lauded "Angel of the North" in Gateshead) is unmistakably conspicuous as you walk across Victoria Square towards the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. It was erected in 1993, a donation to the city from the TSB bank which had just relocated to Birmingham. However, it has since caused a certain amount of controversy. Standing at almost 20 feet high, it depicts a stylised human figure apparently bound like a mummy. It leans slightly and the metal used is designed to oxidise in order to protect it. This explains the controversy—it was seen as a leaning, rusty hunk of metal, but the controversy has now died down a little and people are beginning to appreciate it more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike Loizides |
 Photo: David Taylor |
 Photo: abrinsky |
Pearl jewellery craft |
Chilton Chine Military Road Isle of Wight, Hampshire PO30 4DD +44 1983 74 0352 |
If you are visiting the Isle of Wight, a trip to this unique centre is highly recommended. You can experience a rare insight into the creation and production of pearls and receive demonstrations of the jeweller's art by craftspeople, who can create individual pieces to your own design. There is also a coffee shop in which to enjoy a relaxing drink. Entry is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alan Aplin |
Sixteenth-century college |
Turl Street Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3DW +44 1865 27 9700 http://www.jesus.ox.ac.uk enquiries@jesus.oxford.ac.uk |
Jesus is the largest of a cluster of colleges on and around Turl Street. It distinguishes itself from the rest of the university by being known as the 'Welsh college'. It owes this nickname to the fact that it was founded in 1571 by Hugh Price, (Treasurer of St David's Cathedral in Wales), and for centuries it gave preference to candidates from Wales. T E Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) was a student here - there is a bust of him in the college chapel. On 1st March every year, a Welsh service is held in the chapel to mark St David's Day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex Ezell |
 Photo: Alana and Bentley Na |
 Photo: Keith Cotterill |
Anti-slavery campaigner |
Five Ways Birmingham B16 8SJ |
At Five Ways, to the south-west of the city centre, is this impressive Portland stone memorial to the noted Quaker and philanthropist Joseph Sturge. He rose to public office in the city and was a leading campaigner for the abolition of slavery and for temperance. His memorial stands outside the five-star Marriott Birmingham, a landmark in itself, and shows Sturge standing on a plinth, his hand resting on a Bible. At his feet are figures of a woman with a black child, a reference to the anti-slavery campaign, and a figure holding an olive branch and a dove, representing peace. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pete Ashton |
Multicoloured brickwork and mosaics |
Parks Road Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3PG +44 1865 27 2727 http://www.keble.ox.ac.uk/ enquiries@keble.ox.ac.uk |
Founded in 1868, Keble was the first Oxford college to be built of brick rather than stone; the first to be built by public subscription rather than by a wealthy benefactor; and the first to be built with corridors instead of rooms leading off staircases. Keble's red, yellow and blue brickwork provokes a variety of reactions, and certainly makes this college stand out from the others. Inside, the chapel walls are decorated with Venetian mosaics, and to assure their authenticity, craftsmen and an oven were imported from Venice so that the work could be carried out on site. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stanislav Zivny |
 Photo: Kat Selvocki |
 Photo: John Hornbaker |
Continuing education |
Wellington Square Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 2JA +44 1865 27 0383 |
Founded in 1990, this college was named Kellogg College in 1994 in recognition of the support given to adult education in Oxford by the W K Kellogg Foundation. The college supports the continuing work of the university and provides a college base for adult and part-time students. For these students in particular, the college location near the university administrative offices in Little Clarendon Street is ideal. Visits should be made by appointment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bess Reynolds |
Vibrant Brighton district |
East of Brighton Pier to Brighton Marina Brighton, East Sussex BN2 |
Bristling with activity, day and night, Kemp Town epitomises the spirit of Brighton, lively, colourful and slightly seedy. This area of town is full of good pubs, antique and junk shops, B&Bs and interesting churches. At the eastern end are Sussex Square and Lewes Crescent, stunning white Regency town houses which have been the home to, among others, Lewis Carroll and Ozzy Osbourne. Kemp Town is also the spiritual home of the city's large gay and lesbian community. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Edward Mooney |
 Photo: Kristen Bailey |
 Photo: nik faulkner |
Old tombstones |
City Centre York YO1 8BH +44 1904 62 1756 tic@york-tourism.co.uk |
One of the gateways to the original Roman fortress is the site that Kings Square now occupies. Until the year 1937 it was a graveyard and if you look very carefully you will notice that some of the old tombstones were used to pave the square - so tread very carefully! Today, it is a lively place where jugglers and buskers vie to entertain the many tourists. If you glance up at the roof tops you may spy the strange sight of an almost realistic stone cat stalking an equally realistic stone pigeon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin Pollard |
 Photo: Phil Day |
Infinite indoor variety |
Kirkgate Market Offices 34 George Street Leeds LS2 7HY +44 113 214 5162 |
The home of Leeds city market is a glorious building. It's central Asia brought to Vicar Lane by magic carpet and worth visiting for the building alone. You can buy anything relatively sensible inside: fruit and veg, meat, cheese, spices, fabrics, soft furnishings, buttons and bows, all at comparatively cheap prices. A large outdoor market is located outside, where you'll find fruit and veg stalls and second-hand goods. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tony Preece |
 Photo: Michael Kennally |
 Photo: Steve Bowman |
The setting for many films and TV costume dramas |
Off the A350 3 miles south of Chippenham Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2LG +44 1249 73 0277 |
The very picturesque village of Lacock, with its many charming stone and half-timbered houses, is entirely owned by the National Trust. Lacock Village has featured in various Tv and film costume dramas, in particular Pride and Prejudice, Moll Flanders and Emma. Its popularity with the makers of costume dramas is easy to understand. None of the shops show any sign of belonging to the 20th century, let alone the 21st! Residents and businesses are forbidden to display any form of advertising, so a visit to Lacock really is like a journey into the past. It is well worth the short trip from the city to visit Lacock and its many pubs, cafes and gift shops. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Colin Walsh |
Formerly women-only |
North Oxford Campus Next to the University Parks Oxford, Oxfordshire OX2 6QA +44 1865 27 4300 |
Although women were first allowed to attend lectures in 1873 and to sit certain examinations in 1875, there was no provision for residence or collegiate life for them until Lady Margaret Hall was founded in 1878 as a hall of residence for women from outside Oxford. LMH is named after Lady Margaret Beaufort, the mother of Henry VII, who took religious vows in later life and became a benefactor to both Oxford and Cambridge universities. It was incorporated as a college in 1926 and became co-educational when men were admitted for the first time in 1979. Visits are possible at most times on application. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: beadwoman |
 Photo: Libragrrl2001 |
 Photo: Brandon Newberg |
Fresh food and fashion |
Leadenhall Street (Between Gracechurch Street and Lime Street) London EC3V http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk... |
If you've read Charles Dickens' "Nicholas Nickleby", you might remember the reference to Leadenhall Market as the place to buy newly-laid eggs. Although the arcade is more than a century old, it has retained most of its essence, but you can't buy eggs straight from the chicken. You can, however, buy an extensive range of very fresh game, meat, cheese and fruit and vegetables. Even City workers stop by during their lunch hour to buy some bits and bobs at this superior food market. Recent years have seen a smattering of trendy clothes shops appear in the market, such as a Jigsaw and a Hobbs. There's also a cigar shop and a tailor, among others. Expect the unexpected! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Horace Ko |
 Photo: Martin Brewster |
Lunchtime bargains |
Clerkenwell Road to Greville Street London, London EC1 |
Curiously, there's a distinct lack of leather here. Packed at lunchtime as Clerkenwell workers scavenge for bargains and prepare themselves for an afternoon in the office with a bite to eat from one of the many deli-type eateries in the area. Fruit, vegetables, clothes, shoes, beauty products, plants and cloth are all available in this Aladdin's cave of goodies along with some more original offers, like month-old glossies for 10 per cent of their news stand price. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James Holloway |
 Photo: Henry Law |
A watery place |
York Waterworks Plc York YO1 7DL +44 1904 622171 |
Lendal Tower is situated at the foot of Lendal Bridge and was built in the early part of the 14th century as a defence tower. Later, in fact much later, in the 17th century a merchant by the name of Henry Whistler took over the lease from the City of York in order to use it as a water tower. The lease was for 500 years for an annual fee of one peppercorn, which is still paid today. A rectangular extension was built onto the original round tower, to house the sump. It was Henry Whistler's intention to pump water from the river, by means of a water wheel, in order to supply water to the people of York. Surprisingly, Lendal Tower is still associated with water but now it has become the Head Office of York Waterworks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Caroline Wallis |
 Photo: f0rbe5 |
 Photo: Monica Clements |
Graduate college |
St Cross Road Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3JA +44 1865 27 1650 |
Linacre (established in 1962) is a good example of how modern architecture can exist in Oxford without offending peoples' sensibilities. It's an attractive building, in a parkland with playing fields close to the university's main science area. This is a graduate college, set up to provide a collegiate base for students from other universities who might have difficulty adapting to the ways of Oxford University. Linacre was granted its charter as a fully self-governing college in 1986. It is named after Thomas Linacre (1460-1524) whose pupils included Thomas Moore, Erasmus and Wolsey. Visits to the college are by appointment only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: MrBigglesworth |
 Photo: MrBigglesworth |
 Photo: Henning Bredenkötter |
Founded in 1427 |
Turl Street Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3DR +44 1865 27 9800 http://www.lincoln.ox.ac.uk/ |
This college was founded in 1427 by Richard Fleming, Bishop of Lincoln, and built on the site of St Mildred's church, graveyard and surrounding tenement houses - all of which were pulled down to make way for it. It had a precarious financial existence in its early years but new statutes in 1479 and further benefactions in the 15th and 16th centuries eased the situation. Notable Fellows of the college include John Wesley (the evangelist who founded Methodism), Lord Florey who developed penicillin and the philosopher Samuel Alexandre - one of the first Jews to be elected to an Oxford fellowship. Visiting groups must not exceed a maximum of five people. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alexander Robinson |
 Photo: Alexander Robinson |
Liverpool's champions |
Anfield Road Liverpool, Merseyside L4 0TH +44 151 260 6677 http://www.liverpoolfc.net |
Facilities include a museum and tour centre, a club shop that sells a full range of sports clothing and equipment, a banqueting suite suitable for weddings and various functions, a conference centre with five separate suites and an exhibition area able to accommodate in excess of 1000 delegates. Car parking is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Phil Chambers |
 Photo: Chris Banks |
 Photo: MATTHEW STRONG |
City powerhouse |
1 Lime Street London, London EC3M 7HA +44 20 7327 1000 http://www.lloyds.com/ tours@lloyds.com |
This ultra-modern edifice stands out among other city structures in London's financial district or Square Mile, as it is also known. It was constructed to take the place of two previous Lloyd's establishments, one from 1928 on the same site and the other from 1958 located at 51 Lime Street. Alas, there is no public access, but the exterior of the building, which is designed by Richard Rogers, gives a glimpse of modern London. At night, when the City is deserted, the famous insurance headquarters is illuminated in blue. A Corney & Barrow wine bar below the building, with access from outside, retains a good number of Lloyd's employees after 5p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fredrik Stai |
 Photo: James Davidson |
 Photo: Stephen |
to/from South-east England |
The Strand Main Concourse London, London WC2N 5BR +44 20 7930 5444 |
For trains to/from south-east England (e.g. Dover). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Barry |
 Photo: Anton Piatek |
 Photo: Robert Stokes |
Techno-teens' favourite |
13 Coventry Street London, London W1D 7DH +44 09068 1100 http://www.troc.co.uk/ team@troc.co.uk |
The Trocadero first started life as a tennis court in the 18th century. Since then, it can safely be said that things have changed somewhat. Today, it is London's most-visited entertainment complex, filled with shops, restaurants and high-tech attractions, including Funland - the world's leading indoor entertainment centre, incorporating rides, simulators, high-tech video games, dodgems and a ten-pin bowling alley. Other mass magnets are the Pepsi Max Drop Ride, Madame Tussaud's Rock Circus, an Internet Exchange and the UGC blockbuster cinema and Metro arthouse screen on Rupert Street. This mixed bag of shops, cafés, restaurants and entertainment is geared largely towards tourists and is a huge hit with British visitors from outside London, families, and above all hungry teen hordes. Shops include high street hotspots like the Body Shop and HMV, and fast food abounds with the likes of Ed's Easy Diner, Planet Hollywood and the Rainforest Café. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nick Jeffery |
 Photo: Khairul Mohammed-Shahdan |
Insurance icon |
3 Minster Court Mincing Lane London, London EC3R 7DD +44 20 7617 5000 http://www.luc.co.uk/ lucmanagement@luc.co.uk |
The LUC's distinctive architecture - it resembles a cathedral - stands out in the Square Mile and is visible from the South Bank. It's a stone's throw from Monument, where the Great Fire began in 1666 destroying 13,200 houses in its ferocious four-day furnace. Therefore there is little original architecture left in the City. The warm-coloured LUC building, however, is in another league. There's no public access to the tower, so you'll have to climb up the Monument for great views over London. However, the LUC can be appreciated from the outside. Up close, you will see big bronze sculptures of three horses in the forecourt. Sculpted by Althea Wynne, they have since been nicknamed Sterling, Dollar and Yen. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stewart Morris |
 Photo: Graham White |
Eclectic market area |
Lower Marsh, South Bank between Westminster Bridge Road and Wterloo Road London, London SE1 +44 20 7926 2530 / +44 20 7926 3138 http://www.lower-marsh.co.uk/ ldavidson@lambeth.gov.uk |
This area south of the South Bank has the strangest mixture of things, from theatres (Old Vic, Young Vic) to ethnic food shops and this busy market. Fruit and veg, plants, flowers, books, music and kitchen/electrical appliances are all available, and you'll want to visit some of the shops in the area as well. Herbs and spices galore can be found at The Eastern Supermarket (no. 119). The market itself isn't actually that big, but it does seem to sell something of everything you could possibly want. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stef |
 Photo: Andrew Skudder |
 Photo: HS Crump |
Spookily lifelike wax effigies |
Marylebone Road London, London NW1 5LR +44 870 999 0046 http://www.madame-tussauds.co.uk/ csc@madame-tussauds.com |
The famous waxworks museum, started by Madame Tussaud in 1835, are one of the most popular tourist attractions in London, and usually have queues to match. Now they've introduced a fast-track booking system, so you should be able to bypass the queues by pre-booking a time slot for a £1 surcharge. Madame Tussaud learned her trade making death masks during the French Revolution, and those of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette are displayed beside the actual blade that beheaded them. There are wax models of the famous and the infamous from every walk of life, some of which are amazingly life-like. The Spirit of London exhibit is where memorabilia from London's past are on display. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kaerast |
 Photo: Saima (www.saimasays.com) |
 Photo: Claire Stone |
College with deer park |
High Street Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 4AU +44 1865 27 6000 http://www.magd.ox.ac.uk/index... |
Magdalen's impressive bell tower on High Street has become a landmark in the city. The 144 foot high tower was used as an observation post during the Civil War. Nowadays, every May Day morning the Magdalen College School Choir welcomes summer by singing from the top of the tower whilst several thousand people make merry in the street below. The college is also one of the most spacious in Oxford, with 100 acres of grounds, more than a mile of riverside walks and its own herd of deer. Admission is £3.00 for adults, £2.00 for concessions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sha Crawford |
 Photo: Adam FJ |
 Photo: Laura Aylett |
A major architectural landmark |
St Peter's Square Manchester M2 5PD +44 161 234 1900 |
Work began on this magnificent library, designed by Vincent Harris , in 1930 and there was a grand opening in 1934 by King George V. The architecture is beautiful and the round reading room is of particular interest. Divided into departments, the top floor has a very good linguistic and foreign language department with audio facilities and friendly staff who are always ready to help you find what you need. Census material and historical documents about Manchester are also kept here on microfiche. The library is extremely popular with students and everyone ,from business people to children - is catered for. There is also a well appointed café and a small theater in the basement. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Blue Dress Devoted to Mode |
 Photo: Sian Cross |
 Photo: MarcelloConfalonieri |
Organic produce direct from the farm |
Old Smithfield Market High Street Manchester M4 +44 161 234 7357 |
The latest consumer attraction in the city centre is a resurrection of the old open-air Farmer's Market dating back to the turn of the century. Every second Saturday of the month, farmers from across the region bring their unique produce to the Northern Quarter to sell. Amongst the many delights on offer are specialist sausages, wild boar, ostrich and buffalo meat, free range eggs, fresh fruit juices, dairy products - including organic farmhouse cheeses - and seasonal flowers and plants. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: hugovk |
 Photo: Mike Colvin |
Gothic-styled local government seat |
Albert Square Manchester M60 2LA +44 161 234 5000 http://www.manchester.gov.uk/ city-council@manchester.gov.uk |
The Town Hall was opened in 1877 and with its imposing Gothic-style façade is one of the city's major landmarks. One of its courtyards , complete with cobbled pavement and gas lamps , has frequently been used for television costume dramas. The interior with its wonderful sweeping staircase is just as formidable while the Great Hall contains a selection of paintings by Ford Madox Brown. Guided tours are available on request and rooms can be hired out , book signings, church meetings and old fashioned tea dances all take place here from time to time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: carsten raddatz |
 Photo: Stephen Douglas |
 Photo: Mark Crossfield |
College with theological roots |
Mansfield Road Oxford University Campus Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3TF +44 1865 27 0999 |
Mansfield is the youngest and smallest of the Oxford colleges. Originally a theological college based in Birmingham, Mansfield moved to Oxford in 1886. The college buildings which date from that time are the work of the Victorian architect Basil Champneys. Today, the college is known for its progressive outlook, including its policy of encouraging pupils from state schools to study there. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: chrn |
 Photo: Anders Sandberg |
 Photo: Olivia M. He |
Lively bargains |
Market Street Cambridge CB2 3QJ +44 1223 45 7315 http://www.cambridgemarkets.co... citycentre.manager@cambridge.gov.uk |
On the north and east sides of Market Square you will find shops and college accommodations; to the west, there is Great St Mary's Church, and behind it, King's College Chapel, the Old Schools and the Senate House. The market place has been here for centuries, once taking up all the area between Great St Mary's Church (Church of England), St Edward's Church (Church of England), St Andrew the Great and Holy Trinity (Church of England) churches. From Monday to Saturday the stall holders sell their wares: fresh produce, cut flowers, second-hand books, clothing, soap and souvenirs. On Sundays the square features an art and craft market and local farmers' stalls. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sushiesque |
 Photo: tzadeng |
 Photo: Dean Van Gramberg |
Marking the darker side of Oxford's past |
St Giles Corner of Magdalen Street & Beaumont Street Oxford, Oxford OX1 3AE |
For years, students have attempted to persuade visitors to Oxford that this spire-shaped memorial at the south end of St Giles is the tip of an underground cathedral. In fact, it commemorates a sombre event: the burning at the stake of three martyrs in Oxford during the reign of Queen Mary. Bishops Latimer and Ridley were martyred in 1555 and Archbishop Cranmer in 1556. In the 19th century, a public appeal was launched, resulting in this memorial which was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott and built in 1843. Cranmer (holding his Bible) faces north, Latimer (with head bowed and arms crossed) faces west and Ridley faces east. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Adam Hopkinson |
 Photo: Andy Scudder |
 Photo: SimonCole.com |
Replica of 15th century ship |
Gasferry Road Hotwells City of Bristol BS1 6TY +44 117 922 5737 http://www.matthew.co.uk/ svmatthew@ss-great-britain.com |
This impressive wooden ship is a replica of the vessel in which John Cabot sailed across the Atlantic to discover Newfoundland in 1497 - the event that cemented Bristol's association with all things nautical. Standing on board this version of the ship, which re-enacted the crossing in 1997, really gives you a sense of the past, and the attention to period detail on the boat is second to none. In the summertime you can even take a short trip around the floating harbour on the boat, which is a great way to view the city from a different and rather wonderful perspective. Book early as these two-hour trips are very popular. A visit here also includes entry to the adjacent SS Great Britain and Maritime Heritage Centre, where you can find out even more about Bristol's sea faring past. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: newfoundland_rcmp |
 Photo: Neil Hobbs |
Commemorates the pilgrims' departure |
Western Esplanade Outside Western Gate Southampton, Hampshire |
This memorial opposite Mayflower Park commemorates the departure of the Pilgrim Fathers in the Mayflower and the Speedwell from Southampton in August 1620. It was unveiled in 1913 and features a copper replica of the Mayflower plus plaques commemorating both the pilgrims and the 2 million US troops who left Southampton during World War II more than 300 years later. If you can officially trace your ancestry back to the pilgrims, you can have a plaque added to the memorial. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Plumb |
 Photo: p.livett@btinternet.com |
Pilgrims' portal |
The Barbican Plymouth, Devon PL1 +44 1752 26 4849 |
For many years Plymouth had nothing to commemorate the place where the Pilgrim Fathers took their leave of the Plymouth shore to set out for a new life of religious freedom in America. In 1934, the Mayor of Plymouth added a stone gateway over the Mayflower Stone and called it "The White Gateway to the Ocean". Visitors, especially Americans, have always flocked to this site on the historic Barbican, and to the plaque on which the names of the Pilgrim Fathers, their wives and servants are recorded. This is found very close by, on the side of the Island Tourist Information Office. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Richard and Gill Long |
 Photo: Markus Schroeder |
 Photo: lyndl nanos |
Arts, crafts and farmer's market |
A24 Merantun Way Watermill Way, (near Colliers Wood tube station) London, London SW19 2RD +44 20 8543 9608 http://www.mertonabbeymills.com/ info@mertonabbeymills.com |
This craft market is a fantastic place to pick up gifts, flowers, farmer's market fare and hand-crafted home accessories. Founded on a historical site, the mill that makes it famous is currently under threat, although the residents are battling to protect it. It's well worth a visit, as the stalls are comparable to any of the more "famous" markets while its location near the River Wandle makes it a great get-away only 20 minutes from Central London. With over two hundred stalls offering books, records, art, crafts, clothes, hats and more, and a range of food stalls, you can spend a day here getting the London hustle and bustle out of your system. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Helen |
 Photo: Ian Oakhill |
 Photo: Sarah Nottingham |
Oldest buildings in the university |
Merton Street Oxford University Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 4JD +44 1865 27 6310 http://www.merton.ox.ac.uk/ |
Merton isn't one of the best known Oxford colleges, but it is one of the largest, and one of three colleges claiming to be the oldest in Oxford (the others are Balliol and University). Founded in 1264 by Walter de Merton, the college has the oldest buildings in the entire university and the oldest surviving medieval library. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephen Galsworthy |
 Photo: Ryan Lothian |
 Photo: Phillip Capper |
Dramatic Thameside landmark |
Drawdock Road London, London SE10 0BB http://wwp.millennium-dome.com/ |
The O2 houses a Live Music Club, 11 screen movie theaters, eateries and nightlife galore. The venue hosts major sporting events including Gymnastics and Basketball championships. The O2 is a multi-functional site whose main floor can be turned into an ice rink within two hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James Jin |
 Photo: Roger Wilco |
The city's newest landmark |
Calverley Street Leeds LS1 3HE |
Leeds finally has its own version of Trafalgar Square. It hit the headlines thanks to Nelson Mandela, who came to Leeds to open the city's newest landmark. Flanked by the Civic Hall, the Civic Theatre and the Leeds General Infirmary, the square can hold up to 20,000 people. The Nelson Mandela Gardens, opposite the Felon & Firkin, are a welcome splash of greenery, but if you want to get away from the traffic, head for the top of the square where you can sit under the rowan trees and watch the world rush by. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Anna Hardcastle |
 Photo: Martin Cogley |
 Photo: Stephen Osmotherley |
Celebrating Trains! |
Lower Promenade, Kings Garden Lower Promenade Southport, Merseyside PR8 1QX +44 1704 21 4266 http://www.southportmodelrailw... |
This quaint attraction is situated in the Victorian seaside town of Southport, which is easily accessible by train from the city centre. The miniature model village contains over two hundred 1:18 scale models, all of which were handcrafted by the site owner. The tracks of the Garden Gauge Railway run through a tiny village that features model houses, churches, a fortified manor house and a watermill. Children will love the play area and there is a charming cafe and tea garden for light refreshments. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Neil Sequeira |
 Photo: Neil Sequeira |
Monument to inventor of Sheffield Plate |
Whiteley Wood Road Sheffield, South Yorkshire |
This substantial monument to Thomas Boulsover, situated beside Wiremill Dam, was erected by Sheffield's Master Cutler in 1926 and is a must for anyone interested in the industrial history of the area. Thomas Boulsover was the inventor of Sheffield Plate (a cheaper alternative to silver plating) and as such is often given credit for establishing Sheffield's reputation as the world centre of iron and steel products. He was born in 1704 and died in 1788 at Whiteley Wood Hall. He built rolling mills and a forge in the area and apparently discovered his plating technique by accident. With a small car park nearby, this is also a very good point to start a walk along the attractive Porter Valley. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Dumpleton |
Entertainment Paradise |
County Hall, Riverside Buildings Westminster Bridge Road London SE1 7PB +44 20 7967 1067 http://www.namcostation.co.uk |
Namco Station is a virtual Babylon of electronic entertainment. The Thunderdome-evoking facility is jam-packed with every hot new arcade game and a panoply of virtual-reality simulation machines. Go skiing, racing, street fighting, boating, footballing and more - all within steps of Waterloo Station. If virtual entertainment isn't your cup of tea, Namco Station offers actual entertainment as well. Throw a strike or two at the Techno Bowling lanes, or shoot some American pool in the billiards hall. Corporations are encouraged to hold their corporate events here, but the public is always welcome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Diego FL |
Cinephiles unite |
Belvedere Road Southbank, Waterloo London, London SE1 8XT +44 20 7928 3535 http://www.bfi.org.uk |
The NFT is a large complex that houses cinema screens, a museum, cafes and a shop. Although people often think that this cinema screens only arty, foreign and indie films, the repertoire can really only be described as comprehensive. Each month introduces themes focusing on specific actors, directors or writers, second-run films, classics, children's films and desert-island films - the last of which is chosen by NFT members for a birthday or other occasion. This is a wonderful theatre with loads of surprises every month. Become an NFT member and receive a free monthly program, discounts and special offers (annual membership costs £15.95, £11 for concessions). The NFT is also the host for numerous film festivals, including the London Film Festival and the London Lesbian & Gay Film Festival. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pierre VAL |
 Photo: ho-ling |
Art treasures overlooked by Newson |
Pall Mall East (Trafalgar Square) London WC2N 5DN +44 20 7747 2885 http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk |
This magnificent Georgian edifice, on the northern side of Trafalgar Square, houses a massive collection of Western European art. Works such as Master Leonardo Da Vinci can be found in the Sainsbury Gallery, alongside Botticelli and Bellini. Titian, Michaelangelo and Raphael can be found in the West Wing. In the North Wing, Rubens, Rembrandt and Caravaggio are located, and Seurat, Canaletto, Degas and Monet are in the East Wing. A portable CD guide is available in six different languages. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: explode |
 Photo: chakchouka |
Portraits of the famous |
Saint Martin's Place (Trafalgar Square) London, London WC2H 0HE +44 20 7306 0055 http://www.npg.org.uk |
The National Portrait Gallery houses portraits of movers and shakers in British history from the Tudors to the present day making it a must for lovers of art. Founded in 1856, the collection on display is amongst the most comprehensive in the world and no restrictions are placed on the mediums used. As well as the traditional oil paintings and watercolours there are drawings, miniatures, sculptures, silhouettes, caricatures and photographs. The subjects on show range from Oliver Cromwell to Jarvis Cocker. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Max Warren |
 Photo: PinkQuokka |
19th century building |
8 Bennetts Hill Birmingham B2 5RS +44 (0)121 693 6300 (Tourist Information) |
This fine Victorian sandstone building is at Bennetts Hill, and is now a public house. It was originally built as the National Provincial Bank in 1833, and was rebuilt in 1869, as the inscription around the building will tell you. It is of particular interest for its city coat of arms above the entrance and for its relief sculptures, just inside the entrance porch. The sculptures show craftsmen and industrial scenes and represent the enthusiasm of the bank to be connected with the enterprise of the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Cadman |
Scourge of Napoleon |
Bull Ring Birmingham B5 4BU +44 121 693 6300 (Tourist Information) http://www.bullring.co.uk |
It may not have a column like some other tributes to the great naval leader, but Birmingham's was the first, being erected in 1809. Admiral Horatio Nelson, hero of Trafalgar and the scourge of Napoleon's fleet, stands on a drum-shaped plinth at the markets close to the Bull Ring. His pose is relaxed and he leans upon a somewhat stylised and out of scale ship. It's not as well known as its equivalent in London's Trafalgar Square, but worth a look nonetheless. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tim Ellis |
 Photo: Tim Ellis |
Books in their millions |
Parks Road Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3BG +44 1865 27 7000 http://www.bodley.ox.ac.uk/ enquiries@bodley.ox.ac.uk |
Designed by Sir Giles Scott, the 11 floors in this building (three of which are underground) are cleverly arranged in a pyramid-like shape to ensure they avoid overshadowing nearby buildings. This is part of a central group of Bodleian Library buildings, linked by a system of underground tunnels and containing over six million books and 100 miles of shelving. A copy of every new publication is automatically sent to the library, so the collection is constantly increasing. Please note that this building is not open to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Mawby |
 Photo: Jayson |
 Photo: David Cumberland |
Old and beautiful |
Holywell Street Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3BN +44 1865 27 9555 http://www.new.ox.ac.uk/ barbar.vardag@new.ox.ac.uk |
Head for the spot where New College Lane meets Queen's Lane, enter through the narrow gate tower, and you'll find a college much more extensive and spacious than you'd have imagined. This was the seventh Oxford college to be founded (in 1379) and the first to admit undergraduates. New College boasts of an ancient city wall, as well as the impressive great quadrangle, with buildings dating from the 15th century. The college chapel has a window painted by Thomas Jervais in the late 18th century. The style of the nativity scene caused great controversy at the time, not least because the artist incorporated society figures of the day into the painting, including for instance, the wife of the poet Sheridan as the Virgin Mary. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: franith |
 Photo: Mark Childs |
 Photo: seretuaccidente |
The natural world - wholesale |
9 Elms Lane Battersea London, London SW8 5NX +44 20 7720 2211 http://www.cgma.gov.uk/ info@cgma.gov.uk |
This market is serious: they only sell wholesale here, but if you want to see Britain's main distribution point of fruit, vegetables and flowers in action come here! You'll have to wake up early though - the scents at the flower market are amazing and for some, totally worth red-rimmed eyes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: cristin |
 Photo: David Rivier |
 Photo: Shahbaz Majeed |
Attractive woodland |
New Street (Lymington) Southampton, Hampshire SO41 9BH +44 1590 689000 http://www.thenewforest.co.uk information@nfdc.gov.uk |
The New Forest consists of 145 square miles of woodland and open heathland and is a place of true beauty. There are numerous attractions to be found, such as Furzey Gardens and Beaulieu and delightful villages to visit, like Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst. You will also find an excellent range of accommodations, including hotels like The Watersplash and Parkhill Country House and camp sites such as Ashurst and Setthorns. Be sure to call in at the informative museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Greg |
 Photo: Gareth Jones |
 Photo: drdrkilldare |
The very freshest fruit and vegetables |
Whitworth Street East Openshaw Manchester M11 2WJ +44 161 234 7781 |
Still retaining the feel of a bygone era, this massive wholesale market to the north of the city centre is famous throughout Manchester and has been regularly featured on TV programmes. All the best local restaurants tend to buy their produce here as it specializes in top quality fresh fruit, vegetables, fresh and dried flowers, fish and poultry. Mind you, you'll have to get up really early for the very best bargains. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ross Bowman |
Produce from local farms |
Grainger Market Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE1 5QQ |
This weekly market allows farmers from within a 50 mile radius of Newcastle to sell some of their produce direct to consumers. Cutting out the normal network of distribution obviously means that prices are low. Apart from fruit, meat, and vegetables, other food products on offer include locally made breads, cakes, and cheeses. A number of craft items such as candles, candlesticks, soap, scarves, and greetings cards can also be bought. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Reuven Fletcher |
 Photo: Ian W. Hoke |
York's traditional open-air market |
Newgate York YO1 +44 1904 55 1355 york.market@york.gov.uk |
The open-air market has survived in York for centuries, although the move to its present location is quite recent. Now bordered by the Shambles, Parliament Street and Church Street, it is at the very heart of the city. Although the individual stalls do vary from day to day, you can be sure of colour, variety and a relaxed shopping experience. Butchers and Fishmongers have their spot by the Patrick Pool entrance. Whilst one stall sells specialty cheeses, another sells Italian bread and cakes, and along with fruit, vegetable and flower stalls, they all offer fresh produce and excellent value. Rolls of fabric, various clothing stalls and a hat seller can be found just off the Shambles. Bric-a-brac, second-hand books and handicrafts also have their place. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Rivier |
 Photo: Neil Turner |
 Photo: David Rivier |
Visible evidence |
Minster Yard York YO1 7JL +44 1904 62 4247 |
There are many Norman churches but of the ordinary Norman house there is very little visible evidence left. Excavations in Skeldergate and Aldwark have uncovered only the foundations of a few houses and below the Merchant Adventurers Hall some remains have been found. Only two visible traces of Norman houses above ground level have been found in York. One can be found enclosed within the Treasurers House near to the York Minster and the other is close to Stonegate. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rande |
 Photo: Liz McDaniel |
Head north |
North End Road Between Lilly Road and Fulham Broadway London, London SW6 1NL +44 20 8748 3020 (Tourist Information) |
This busy local market brings a bit of the East End into southwest London. Every day the same stalls line up along the road and attract passers by and locals alike, all eager to take a bargain home. Fresh fruit and vegetables make up the bulk of the stalls, but you can also get toiletries, clothes, batteries and various bits for the home. The market probably owes its popularity to the fact that there's nowhere else in Fulham to pick up cheap haberdashery and food. It is best to visit the market in the morning, both to get the food at its best and to avoid disappointment if the market closes early. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Julian Gajewski |
 Photo: Cyril Rickelton-Abdi |
Old quarter of Brighton |
Church Street (Trafalgar Street) Brighton, East Sussex BN1 |
Known as Brighton's Bohemian quarter, North Laine is home to some of the best shops, pubs and cafes in the area. Local cafe culture thrives during the summer, with tables spreading out into the middle of the road in Gardener Street and fashions and sub-cultures competing in a vibrant atmosphere. There is an eclectic mix of antique warehouses, second-hand shops, glitzy boutiques and buskers. Snooper's Paradise in Kensington Gardens is Brighton's largest indoor flea market. There is also a Saturday morning market in Upper Gardner Street. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah Faulkner |
 Photo: idleformat |
Don't come for the film |
Notting Hill London, London http://portowebbo.com |
Notting Hill - is there anywhere else like it? Back in the old days it was a huge slum, inhabited by the poorest West Indian and Irish folk. But these days, film crews, tourists, rock stars and Madonna come to visit all the time. You can't really buy Notting Hill cool but you can try. There is a plethora of great designer clothes shops you know (Paul Smith and Joseph) and newer labels you will want to get to know better (Debonair and Preen). On Fridays and Saturdays, you could luck out and find the next hot new designer at one of Portobello Road Market's clothes stalls. The vintage clothes and shoes are fabulous too. The Portobello Green Arcade, which, unlike the market, is open all week and has some lovely fashion boutiques. Oh and don't forget to observe how the locals wear the stuff in their natural habitat that is the various bars, brunch and dinner places in the area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Finnur Magnusson |
 Photo: Atti-la |
 Photo: Chris Kruell |
Focus on social studies |
New Road Oxford University Campus Oxford, Oxforshire OX1 1NF |
When William Morris (Viscount Nuffield) - the man who introduced car manufacturing to Oxford - bought the old canal wharf, he offered to build a college on part of the land to improve the visual approach to the west side of the city. Although the college was founded in 1937, building work was delayed and cut back due to World War II and its aftermath, resulting in the 160 foot tower becoming a library rather than the chapel tower. The college specializes in social studies, and aims to provide a link between industry and academia. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rose Davies |
 Photo: Armen Hakhverdian |
 Photo: Bernd Zimmermann |
The Prime Minister's official residence |
10 Downing Street Whitehall London, London SW1A 2AA http://www.number-10.gov.uk |
Ever since Sir Robert Walpole took up residence here in 1721, this rather ordinary, dark brick townhouse has been the official residence for Britain's prime ministers. Behind the world-famous front entrance, with its black door guarded vigilantly by a good old British "bobby," lies a network of formal rooms, offices, private apartments, kitchens and cellars. While access to the general public is strictly forbidden, several hundred school children, selected by visiting MP's, are permitted to visit each year. Not bad, considering the residents of this house don't even have their own key. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Cheng |
 Photo: Dan Dempsey |
Rare 16th century house |
West Bromwich Sandwell B70 8HJ +44 121 553 0759 |
A beautiful gabled timber-framed building, Oak House is one of the finest of its kind in the Midlands. It dates back to the 16th century and has a rare lantern tower which was probably added in the 17th century. There are panelled rooms inside and a fine collection of furniture. The gardens are very pleasant, and John Wesley once preached here. Admission is free, except for special events, and the house closes an hour earlier in winter. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Johan Maurer |
The search for the true local recipe |
The Square Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1BT +44 1629 81 2193 http://www.bakewellpuddingshop... info@bakewellpuddingshop.co.uk |
This is one of two bakeries in the picturesque town of Bakewell, a 20 minute bus or taxi ride from Sheffield city centre. Both shops claim to have the only original recipe for Bakewell pudding, a local speciality which is said to have been the result of a mistake made by a cook at the White Horse Inn in 1860, but which became an instant hit locally. The recipe was a closely guarded secret but both bakeries claim to have the only set of original instructions. This shop, an 18th century building which retains many original features and also has a restaurant upstairs, was originally a chandler's: a chandler's wife was said to have been the first to obtain the true recipe and sell puddings. Its rival is on Matlock Street. Most people say the puddings taste the same whichever shop you get them from, but why not try for yourself? Puddings are bought by people from all over the world and can even be posted to you at home. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ying_Chi_17 |
Ye Olde Gaye District |
Old Compton Street London W1D 4TN |
Named after the Bishop Henry Compton (1632-1713), Old Compton Street's original claim to fame was as a haven for French refugees back in the 17th and 18th centuries. The area saw the likes of French poets Paul Verlaine and Arthur Rimbaud frequent its pubs. For as long as most can remember, the neighborhood has also cornered the Soho shopping market. Nowadays the street is the centre of London's gay community, hosting the annual Soho Pride festival each summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Timmy Denike |
 Photo: Martin Petts |
 Photo: Weetniet |
Historic schoolhouse |
The Green King's Norton Birmingham B38 8RU +44 121 643 2514 |
One of several half-timbered buildings that survive in various parts of the city, the Old Grammar School is one of the oldest in the Midlands and dates back to the 15th century. Only the upper floor is half-timbered, the ground floor being a later addition in brick. It is thought to have originally stood on stilts. School's been out here for a great many summers but in recent years it has been used by the choir of the nearby church. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christopher M. Bainb |
 Photo: Alice |
17th-century lecture area |
Catte Street Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3BW |
Schools in this context means teaching rooms - the quad was built in 1613-24 to bring together the lecture rooms, which were, until then, dispersed, throughout the city. Teaching was in Latin and over the doors, the early 17th-century curriculum has been written out - in Latin of course! The statue is of the Third Earl of Pembroke, Chancellor of the University when the quad was built and the man to whom Shakespeare dedicated his first folio. Schools Quad is now part of the Bodleian Library. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike Creech |
 Photo: Ellen Armstrong |
A hip square |
Broad Street Birmingham B1 2HS +44 121 693 6300 |
Just off Broad Street and Brindleyplace is Birmingham's newest public square. It is modern in its style and is overlooked by prestigious office buildings and the Ikon Gallery. There is a cafe at its centre, an impressive Thai restaurant on the northern side and it also contains a delightful water installation with fountains. Trees have been planted along the approach from Broad Street giving a sense of calm. Many other restaurants, bars and attractions are nearby. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stuart Atkins |
Authentic market |
London Road Brighton, East Sussex BN1 4JG |
This partly covered market was established in the 1920s. The outside wall on the Ditchling Road side is painted with a mural of the market and the people who frequent this busy place. Food produce includes fruit, vegetables, flowers, eggs, milk, cheese, fish and meat. There are also stalls selling haberdashery, pet supplies, stationery, ornaments, watches and electrical goods. The Market Cafe sells good British grub. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kathryn r. moore |
 Photo: Maya Ganesh |
Grandest quad in Oxford |
Oriel Square Oxford University Campus Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 4EW +44 1865 27 6555 http://www.oriel.ox.ac.uk/ lodge@oriel.ox.ac.uk |
Oriel got its name from La Oriole - a house which stood on the site of the present front quadrangle. This quadrangle, restored in the 17th century, is one of the grandest in Oxford, and is dominated by the stepped entrance to the Hall, with intricate stonework and statues of Charles I and Edward II above. Alumni of Oriel include Sir Walter Raleigh and Cecil Rhodes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mat Hyde |
 Photo: Peter J. Large |
 Photo: Erika Sparby |
Oxford's other university |
Gipsy Lane Campus Headington Oxford, Oxfordshire OX3 0BP +44 1865 74 1111 http://www.brookes.ac.uk/ query@brookes.ac.uk |
Few visitors realise that Oxford University is not the only university in town: Brookes University may not be as famous or prestigious, but it is still a major regional university. Inevitably, each university's respective student population tends to have a distinct personality and favourite places to go - not to mention some healthy rivalry - but when it comes down to it, both contribute to the student feel of Oxford. For information on courses and admissions, call +44 1865 48 4848. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Simon Jones |
 Photo: Simon Jones |
 Photo: Andrew Turley |
One of the world's leading universities |
University Offices Wellington Square Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 2JD +44 1865 27 0001 http://www.ox.ac.uk/ |
Many visitors to Oxford ask for directions 'to the university' but Oxford is not a campus university and it can't be visited in that sense. The university consists of 39 completely separate, autonomous colleges, which are spread throughout the city. Students belong to and live in the colleges, which are the focus of their academic and social life. The university is responsible for centralised functions, such as the major laboratories and computing facilities. The university also sets the syllabus and the examinations for all students from every college. The buildings to be seen and visited in Oxford are both university and college buildings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Charlene Tang |
 Photo: Stuart |
 Photo: Geraint Owen |
Famous Residences |
Pall Mall London, UK SW1 |
Named after the popular game that was often played on the street in the 17th Century, Pall Mall lies parallel to the The Mall within close proximity of St. James Street. Today, the street is home to various gentlemen's clubs, including the Royal Automobile Club, and the Oxford and Cambridge Club. The street also houses several royal residences (as much of the street has been owned by the Crown for several hundred years). The Prince Regent's Carlton House and the Marlborough House are located here, as well as the War Office which administered the Royal Army in the 17th Century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: J Meldrum |
 Photo: Ben Hatherell |
 Photo: Andy Bennett |
Oh-so-quiet |
Prince of Wales Drive Battersea Park London, London SW11 4NJ +44 (0)20 7228 9620 http://www.batterseapark.org/h... mike@batterseapark.org |
This beautiful pagoda, a gift from the Japanese-Buddhist nuns and monks of the Nipponzan Myohoji Order to the city of London, was erected in 1985 in Battersea Park. The Peace Pagoda, as the name suggests, is indeed a symbol of harmony and tolerance of all world religions; it also commemorates the victims of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings. With a gilded Buddha on each side of the structure, it offers scenic views of the Thames River that flows nearby. The peaceful atmosphere and silence that surround the monument are reason enough to visit it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kirsteen |
 Photo: Rajeshwar Chahal |
 Photo: Chris Ceppi |
Monument to King Edward VII |
Kings Road Brighton, East Sussex BN1 |
Straddling the boundary between Brighton and Hove on the seafront, this monument has become known as the Peace Statute although it in fact celebrates the reign of King Edward VII. Designed by Newbury Trent, it was erected in 1912 and takes the form of an angel of peace holding an orb and an olive branch. The main seafront road passes the statue, and its size makes it impossible to miss. It is often a meeting place for environmental groups and there is a Peace Festival on the nearby Hove Lawns every summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Lane |
 Photo: Jai |
 Photo: Michael Lank |
Impressive complex of caves in Castleton |
Goose Hill Castleton, Derbyshire S33 8WS +44 1433 62 0285 http://www.peakcavern.co.uk/ info@peakcavern.co.uk |
At the heart of Castleton village, follow a footpath beside picturesque cottages to the staggering mouth of the vast limestone cave, overhung by the cliff where Peveril Castle stands. This cave was a workplace for rope-makers for four centuries and your visit may include a rope-making display. You will then be guided further into the rock, through an impressive series of chambers, including Orchestra Gallery, which was popular as a tourist attraction even in Victorian times, when it was known for its acoustic properties. More recently, the cavern's passages were used as a setting in the BBC adaptation of C.S. Lewis's Narnia books. The cavern can be reached from Sheffield city centre within a 25 minute bus or taxi ride. Admission charges are: £6.25 Adults; £5.25 concessions; £4.25 Children (ages 5-15); £18.50 Family Ticket Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Howard Gees |
 Photo: Howard Gees |
Travel through the Peak District in style |
Peak District Matlock Station Sheffield, Derbyshire DE4 3NA +44 1629 58 0381 http://www.peakrail.co.uk/ peakrail@peakrail.co.uk |
Travel through one of the most beautiful areas of the country on one of Britain's longest steam heritage railways. The train line runs from Matlock (accessible within a 15 minute bus or taxi ride from Sheffield city centre) to Buxton, stopping at some of the Peak District's most popular attractions including: The Peak Village; The Wind in the Willows story; Haddon Hall and Chatsworth. A restaurant on board the train offers Sunday lunches, cream teas and corporate hospitality. Stations along the railway line have shops, tearooms and other facilities. A calendar of events on the train includes: a Halloween Ghost Train, Santa Specials, jazz nights and treasure hunts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: loose_grip_99 |
College with magnificent hammerbeam roof |
Pembroke Street Oxford University Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 1DW +44 1865 27 6444 http://www.pmb.ox.ac.uk/ |
Pembroke College was founded by James I in 1624 and a statue of the founder stands in the tower in Chapel Quad. The Hall, with its magnificent hammerbeam roof, dates from the 19th century and has a wonderful collection of portraits by former students who subsequently achieved fame in various fields. The college chapel dates from 1732 and the stained glass, which was completed in 1900, is by Charles Kempe, also a former student. Visits are made by arrangement. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Giles Moss |
 Photo: Peter Blapps |
 Photo: Sam Jones |
Monumental folly |
Waterworks Road Edgbaston Birmingham B16 9AL +44 121 643 2514 (Tourist Information) |
Follies—buildings constructed for little or no practical purpose—were all the rage in the 18th century. This is an example built by local landowner John Perrott in the 1750s. It is an unusual octagonal brick tower, 96 feet in height, complete with battlements and Gothic windows. A spiral staircase leads to an upper floor with displays and a tea room. It is open only on Sundays between Easter and September. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brett Wilde |
 Photo: N Croll |
Bargain hunters' paradise |
Wentworth Street London, London E1 +44 20 7377 8963 |
Petticoat Lane is probably the best market in London for budget clothing, and most definitely the place to visit if you're looking for new leathers. The large selection of locally made leather jackets in the covered area at the southern end of Middlesex Street can be snapped up for less than half the shop price if you are prepared to haggle. When you do finally win over the seller, treat yourself to a cornet of fried king prawns in garlic and butter from the stall outside. Most of the other clothing on offer is standard market fare, but there is a stall selling French Connection seconds at bargain prices, and occasional designer clothes traders put in an appearance, too. This market opens at Wentworth Street at the beginning of the week and eventually lands up spreading to Middlesex and other trading streets by the weekend. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ladelentes |
 Photo: Clive Power |
Home to the "Blood Brothers" production |
Charing Cross Road London, London WC2H 0JP +44 870 060 6629 / +44 870 060 6634 (Hotline) http://www.theambassadors.com/... |
The Pheonix Theatre has been showing Blood Brothers for the last nine years, and isn't planning on changing that anytime soon. The theatre was originally opened in 1934 for Noel Coward's play Private Lives, and can hold 1,000 people. There is a selection of five bars that open half an hour before each performance and stays open until the end of the show. A box is reserved for one wheelchair and a companion. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Neha Viswanathan |
 Photo: Neha Viswanathan |
Showcasing contemporary photography |
5 & 8 Great Newport Street London, London WC2H 7HY +44 20 7831 1772 http://www.photonet.org.uk/ info@photonet.org.uk |
The Photographers' Gallery was the first independent gallery in Britain to be solely devoted to photography. It has an ever-changing programme of exhibitions, focusing on the best in international contemporary photography. A visit here is always full of surprises, as no two exhibitions are alike. This is a thriving place that attracts all those interested in viewing or producing photographs, so its surprising that its still one of London's less well-known galleries. There's also an excellent bookshop, which stocks over 5,000 titles and runs a worldwide mail order service. The gallery is hoping to move to larger premises, but hasn't yet been successful in finding a suitable location. There's no admission fee, but they do rely on people becoming members to keep running. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Adriana Henriquez |
 Photo: Zorilla |
Las Vegas lights in London |
Piccadilly Circus London, London W1V 9LB http://www.london.cx/piccadill... |
For many years, Piccadilly Circus - at the junction of five busy streets - has been a major London landmark, seen by many as the capital's centre. In the daytime it's a bustling area filled with shoppers, business people and tourists. But visit in the evening to see the area really come alive, with its sparkling illuminated signs and heady mix of clubbers and couples ready for a big evening out. At the heart of Piccadilly is a fountain topped with the aluminium statue of an archer. Although affectionately known as Eros by Londoners, it's actually the Angel of Christian Charity by Sir Alfred Gilbert, and it was so unpopular when first unveiled that he opted for self-imposed exile. Today the statue is one of London's most famous sites and a haven for tourists and romantic couples alike. This is truly the gateway to the West End. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: john varghese |
 Photo: Pete Charles |
Amusement park with fun for all |
Marine Drive Southport, Merseyside PR8 1RX +44 1704 53 2717 http://www.pleasureland.uk.com |
This popular funfair is situated in a seaside town just 25 minutes drive from Liverpool and is easily accessible via a regular train and bus service. Initially opened in 1912, it is now home to five roller coasters including the country's tallest, fastest suspended looping coaster—The Traumatizer. Other attractions include flying elephant rides, junior go-karts, a speed simulator, sky coaster, ghost trains, a Moroccan fun house and a spookily perceptive fortune-teller. Casablanca is an impressive family entertainment centre, complete with bar, restaurant, bowling, pool tables and games arcade. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James Grundy |
 Photo: Eddie Dowds |
 Photo: Gavin Allanwood |
Open-top bus |
Plymouth Citybus Milehouse Plymouth, Devon PL3 4AA +44 1752 66 2271 |
This is a good way to explore Plymouth for people who want to see all the sights in one day. The open top bus tours visits all the popular landmarks including the Mayflower Steps, the Barbican, the Elizabethan House, Plymouth Gin, Plymouth Dome and the Royal Citadel on Plymouth Hoe. Although the bus ride lasts for nearly an hour you may get off as often as you wish and spend time exploring each place. The bus runs every 30 minutes so you may rejoin the tour at regular intervals. Your bus ticket also offers you discounts at many local attractions, shops and restaurants. Prices:adult £6, senior/student £5, child(5-12) £2, family(2+4) £12. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Frank Bennett |
Once an everyday sight; now a historical curiosity |
Surrey St Sheffield, South Yorkshire S1 2LG +44 114 221 1900 (Sheffield Tourism Bureau) |
This old-fashioned police box, now a historical curiosity, will instantly be recognized by fans of the TV series 'Dr Who' as the "Tardis"! The box, and 120 others like it across Sheffield, played an important part in the fight against crime from the 1920s through to the 1960s. Originally, the boxes had blue lights on the top, which flashed if there was an urgent message waiting for police officers. The box was also used for sheltering from the rain, eating sandwiches and report writing. Sheffield is one of the very few cities in the UK where these boxes can still be seen. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Gillott |
 Photo: Shaun Davidson |
 Photo: Steve |
One of the biggest of its kind |
Pontefract Lane Pontefract Lane Leeds LS9 0QP |
With over 1000 stalls and car boots, a walk around Pontefract Lane is sure to exhaust even the most ardent shopaholic. It's worth every step though as massive savings can be made, particularly at the regular stalls offering tools, DIY materials, carpets, beauty products, bicycles, and so on. There is everything here that you would find in a city centre. Parking is a problem - you can park on-site, but the wisest visitors park on the adjacent roads for a quick exit. Arrive early - many of the vendors have sold up, packed up and gone home by early afternoon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin McCarthy |
The real Notting Hill? |
Portobello Road West of Marble Arch London, London W11 http://www.portobelloroad.co.uk/ |
Portobello Road is primarily an antiques market, which comes to life on Saturdays, when the rows of stalls stretch far into the distance: antique dealers and merchants selling art, clothing, crafts and second-hand books are abound. Fashion mavens come here to browse and to be inspired. Many successful designers got their start under the tent by the bridge. It is touristy on Saturdays, so try coming on Fridays or Sundays. During the week, there's a fruit and vegetable market every day and on Thursdays, there is an organic market. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Simon Pearson |
 Photo: Andrew Littlewood |
Europe's first urban leisure complex |
Withy Grove Manchester M4 2BS +44 161 385 8080 |
Created from the shell of a major national newspaper printers, Printworks is one of the latest redevelopments to be created in the wake of the 1996 IRA bomb. At a cost of £150 million the building has been completely refurbished to provide what has been described as Europe's first major urban leisure and entertainment complex. Inside, there is over 350,000 square feet of floor space containing over 30 cafés and bars, 16 restaurants, a health and fitness centre and the only IMAX cinema in the region. The cobbled walkways and cavernous spaces create a strange, neon lit, almost futuristic atmosphere with massive flickering video screens and constant loud piped dance music. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Laura Marie |
 Photo: Mehdi Hamoodi |
 Photo: Ian Pattinson |
Famous bridge over the River Avon |
Pulteney Bridge Over the River Avon Bath, North East Somerset BA1 1EE +44 1225 47 7101 tourism@bathnes.gov.uk |
The view of Pulteney Bridge with its three classical arches spanning the width of the Avon just above Pulteney Weir is synonymous with Bath. Designed in the Palladian style by Robert Adam for landowner Frances Pulteney, the bridge, built in 1769-71, is one of only three bridges in the world lined with shops. But Pulteney Bridge is unique in being 18th century, a time when buildings on bridges were being demolished as impediments to traffic. Indeed the Bath Corporation protested about this 'outdated phenomenon,' but Frances Pulteney was determined (possibly thinking of the shop rents he would collect) and the shops remain to this day. After 1936 the bridge was restored to the original plans and it is this restored bridge that enchants visitors and provides an instantly recognisable image of Bath. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Camera Freak |
 Photo: Jim in Times Square (J. Carroll Lambert) |
 Photo: Mike Franklin |
Sunday morning open-air market |
Quayside Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE1 2BJ |
This centuries old market (no-one seems quite sure exactly when it first started), held on the historical Quayside, beneath the Tyne Bridge, is a popular Sunday destination for locals and tourists alike. Some simply come to browse, or stroll by the riverfront, but there is many a bargain to be found amongst the Quayside market's 200 diverse stalls, selling clothes, books, pictures, CDs, and much more. There are plenty of food stalls if you are peckish, and plenty of pubs if you are thirsty, some of which open early to serve breakfast. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Olynewcastle |
 Photo: Maria Maza |
Fine classical architecture |
High Street Oxford University Campus Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 4AW +44 1865 27 9120 http://www.queens.ox.ac.uk/ |
Queen's is probably the finest example of classical architecture in Oxford. The college was founded in 1340, but the original buildings have gone, and a rebuilding programme in the 17th and 18th centuries resulted in the quadrangles we see today. The architecture of the front quadrangle is particularly noteworthy, and was heavily influenced by the architect Nicholas Hawksmoor. The screen wall that fronts the High Street also owes much to Hawksmoor, though it is attributed to a local Oxford mason William Townesend. This college is only open to the public on official city tours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brad Watmuff |
 Photo: Marko_K |
 Photo: Peter Mattock |
One of the city's most beautiful buildings |
Radcliffe Square Oxford OX1 4AJ http://www.bodley.ox.ac.uk/ |
Turn the corner into Radcliffe Square and you'll see why the Camera is one of the most admired buildings in Oxford. This was the first round library to be built in Britain by John Radcliffe, who studied at Oxford and left much of his wealth and all of his medical books to the university. Building work started in 1737, and in 1860 it became part of the Bodleian Library. It is now used as reading rooms and is not open to the public, but the exterior view is more than enough to make this building worth visiting. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marsha Filion |
 Photo: Rob Brewer |
 Photo: Petra Bos |
The work of a modern master |
The Headrow The Headrow Leeds LS1 3AD |
Located on the lively plaza outside the City Art Gallery, this sculpture by the internationally renowned Henry Moore - a true pioneer of modern art - has become a major Leeds landmark. It embellishes the presence of one of the UK's most important modern sculpture galleries - the Henry Moore Institute. Cast in bronze, Reclining Woman (Elbow) (1980) addresses the dynamic spatial relationships that comprise the human form. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dave Graham |
 Photo: Heather |
Offices for the Rhodes Trust |
South Parks Road Oxford OX1 3RG +44 1865 27 0908 http://www.bodley.ox.ac.uk/dep... rhodes.house.library@bodley.ox.ac.uk |
Opened in 1929 as a memorial to Cecil Rhodes, this building is now used as offices for the Rhodes Trust. On the copper-domed roof is the Zimbabwe bird - the national symbol of Zimbabwe, formerly Rhodesia. Eighty five Rhodes scholarships are awarded each year on the basis of academic and all-round qualities to graduates from 18 countries. The first Rhodes scholars arrived in 1903 and former scholars include Bill Clinton, Norman Manley (former prime minister of Jamaica) and the actor Kriss Kristofferson. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marc Hadley |
 Photo: Juliana Mendel |
 Photo: Eve Maler (xmlgrrl) |
All that glitz and glamour |
150 Piccadilly London, London W1J 9BR +44 (0)20 7493 8181 http://www.theritzlondon.com enquire@theritzlondon.com |
Ever since the grand opening of this world-famous hotel in 1906, the Ritz has been a magnet for the rich and famous. It is ideally situated in the heart of St. James's, overlooking Green Park and very close to the West End, Piccadilly and Bond Street. The hotel is popular with wealthy tourists, businessmen, celebrities and English aristos. The rooms, public areas and facilities are all beautifully maintained and the service is, as one would expect in such an establishment, impeccable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Bridgeman |
 Photo: Mark |
Newest Cambridge college |
Grange Road Cambridge CB3 9AN +44 1223 33 9100 http://www.robinson.cam.ac.uk/ |
Robinson is the newest of the Cambridge colleges, founded in 1977 by local millionaire David Robinson, who went from working in a cycle shop to the ownership of a chain of TV rental stores. The college is built in red brick, with balconies looking inwards to a paved courtyard. The chapel has a striking stained-glass window designed by John Piper. The college has unpredictable opening hours. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christopher Buchanan |
 Photo: Lynn Pearson |
 Photo: Susan Allen |
War of the roses |
York Glaziers Trust 6 Deangate York YO1 7JB +44 1904 55 7216 |
Everyone comes to see the famous "Rose Window" which is situated in the South Transept of the York Minster, it depicts the red and white roses of Lancaster and York respectively, and commemorates the wedding in 1486 of Henry VII to Elizabeth of York. This marriage was to end the "War of the Roses" and to bring peace to England. Sadly, there was a fire in 1984 which melted the lead joints and cracked the glass but fortunately the window was not beyond repair. The restoration process employed a strengthening procedure that involved sandwiching it between pieces of clear glass. Now fully restored it's a wonderful thing to see. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alan |
 Photo: MAUREEN OLIPHANT |
 Photo: Kate (MaryKathleen A |
Famous sixties landmark |
New Street Birmingham B2 4PA +44 121 643 2514 |
Arguably Birmingham's most famous building, this cylindrical office block is an important landmark. At some twenty storeys high the Rotunda is by no means Birmingham's tallest building, but its distinctive shape makes it unmissable. It was built as part of the early 1960s reconstruction of the city centre and was threatened with demolition as plans were drawn up for the current rebuilding of the central shopping area. But a public outcry saved this significant edifice and it is being incorporated into redevelopment plans. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel Bradley |
 Photo: Kevan |
 Photo: Ned Trifle |
Shopping Galore |
Royal Exchange Buildings London EC3V http://www.theroyalexchange.com/ |
With luxurious panache, the Royal Exchange proudly provides you with all of your shopping needs - and then some. Whether you desire clothes, jewelry, art, fashion accesories, lingerie, or just a good drink and a meal, you can find it here. Founded in 1565 by Sir Thomas Gresham, the Exchange was originally touted as a centre of economic commerce. Fortunately, it has not functioned solely in that capacity since 1939, when it ceased being a haven for stock brokers and grew into the oasis of retail materialism that it is today. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: L. Heroux |
 Photo: Victoria McGee |
 Photo: Dave |
Multi-arts venue on the South Bank |
Belvedere Road South Bank Centre London, London SE1 8XX +44 (0)870 380 4300 http://www.rfh.org.uk/ |
The Royal Festival Hall is part of the South Bank Centre, and puts on an array of musical and dance performances of all styles and a lot of pop concerts are held here. From June to August there is a series of summer events always worth checking out, and an orchestral season runs from September to June. Each November sees the London Jazz Festival. The large hall holds around 3,000 people, but this can vary depending on the size of the performance. There are dining facilities that range from smaller cafes and snack bars to renowned eatery The People's Palace. Aside from the concerts themselves, the Royal Festival Hall often has several small photographic or contemporary art exhibitions on the go. They're often unpublicized, but if you happen to be on the South Bank, it's worth popping in to the hall to see if anything interesting is on show. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Simon Rigglesworth |
 Photo: Olivier Bruchez |
London's premiere cultural house is back |
Bow Street London, London WC2E 9DD +44 20 7304 4000 http://www.royaloperahouse.org/ |
The Opera House is even more impressive than before. The period building has been restored to its original glory and continues to be the largest opera and ballet venue in London, showcasing the works of the Royal Ballet, Royal Opera and ROH Orchestra. Expect famous tenors, famous ballerinas and famous audience members as part of the revamped program. In an active attempt to rope in the masses, a range of cheap tickets will be offered for all performances. You can even take in the stunning architecture without going to a show—the entrance hall and exhibitions are open for viewing and backstage tours. Call the box office for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Hill |
 Photo: Jane Sartin |
 Photo: Andrew Finden |
Fully operational steamship |
Solent Steam Packet Ltd. PO Box 1028 Southampton, Hampshire SO18 1XT +44 2380 230405 http://www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk info@ss-shieldhall.co.uk |
The SS Shieldhall is a fully operational, old fashioned steamship that docks at Ocean Village when it is not on a voyage. Although built in 1950, the ship has a classic design from the 1920s. After 30 years of service, it was carefully restored and preserved by Solent Steam Packet Limited and still regularly goes to sea. When berthed the ship is open for viewing by the public, with volunteers on hand to answer questions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike Rumble |
Bustling charter market |
Market Square Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 1EU +44 1722 33 4956 (Tourist Information) |
This famous charter market is held in and around the Market Square in Salisbury every Tuesday and Saturday. You can buy herbs and spices, pizza, fresh fish and meat, marvellous cheeses, fabrics, carpets, clothes and much more. A kaleidoscope of colour, a cacophony of sound and a medley of aromas, it is busy and bustling, especially during the holiday season. Try the WI stall for a delicious home-made cake or simply watch the activity from above at Le Café Parisien. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mary Safe |
Victorian watermill with literary connection |
Cole Bank Road Hall Green Birmingham B13 0BD +44 121 777 6612 |
Sarehole Mill is a restored Victorian-style working watermill originally built in 1765. Situated on the bank of the River Cole, it features a Victorian engine house and bakehouse and gives an insight into rural life of the period. Sarehole Mill was the inspiration for the village and mill in The Hobbit, since JRR Tolkien used to live in the area and spent much of his childhood by the mill. The mill is open all year round and is a popular destination for school trips. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ian bower |
 Photo: Helena Viznerova |
Ceremonial centre of the University of Cambridge |
Senate House Hill Cambridge CB2 1TS http://www.cam.ac.uk |
Stand in the paved area where Trinity Street meets King's Parade, and you are in the centre of Cambridge. Since the 18th century, all road distances from the city have been measured from the West Door of Great St Mary's, the university church. To the west is an immaculate lawn with the Old Schools (the university administration offices) and the baroque Senate House, completed in 1730. The Senate House is the ceremonial centre of the university: inside degrees are conferred and important decisions put to ballot. The Senate is the collective name for all those awarded an MA or higher. In practice, it never meets, and decisions are made by a group of senior scholars called the Regent House (but don't look for this, as it doesn't exist!). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin Coates |
 Photo: Ros Pyne |
 Photo: Bill (DCVoyager) |
Celebrating contemporary engineering feats |
Severn Road, Pilning And Severn Beach City of Bristol BS35 4HW +44 1454 633 511 |
Situated on the Severn Way Coastal Footpath, and adjacent to the second Severn crossing, this centre celebrates the engineering achievements of the two outstanding bridges that take you across the water into Wales. Opened in 1996 the second bridge is the longest bridge in the UK and also boasts the longest cable-stayed span. The first was, in 1966 when it was built, the seventh longest suspension bridge in the entire world. You can find out more about the history behind the bridges in the education centre and buy mementos in the shop. Or, if the weather is good (the place is closed in inclement conditions), walk along the new sea wall, and walk a fraction of the long distance Severn Walk. There is free parking at the site. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ted Green |
Mentioned in the Domesday Book |
City Centre York YO1 7LZ +44 1904 676 167 http://www.yorkshambles.com info@yorkshambles.com |
This is the most famous street in York and the only one to be listed in the Doomsday book. It's quaint and very picturesque with its narrow cobbled streets and the timbered shops leaning so close they nearly touch each other. It used to be a street of medieval butcher shops and slaughter houses, which must have been a real health hazard in those days as visitors to this street would have had to tread very cautiously through the discarded offal. The street probably gets its name from the low wide shelves called "shammels" on which the butchers displayed their meat. Now it's a street of souvenir and coffee shops. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Darren James |
 Photo: Pat Durkin |
 Photo: Paul Quick |
Old-established university with a fine reputation |
University of Sheffield Howard St Sheffield, South Yorkshire S1 1WB +44 114 225 5555 http://www.shu.ac.uk/ |
Sheffield University (which has one of the liveliest and most proactive student unions in the country) originally grew out of the Sheffield Medical School, Firth College and the Sheffield Technical School. These three institutions came together in 1897 to form the University College of Sheffield, which in turn became the University of Sheffield in 1905. As an old established University, Sheffield has faculties based on traditional lines, within which there are 78 departments and a huge range of courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. Research is also a high priority. Sheffield University attracts many international students. The faculties include some fine buildings, many of which are situated in leafy Broomhill and Crookesmoor, including the landmark Arts Tower. Accommodation is available to the public at halls such as Halifax House during vacation periods. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: michael evans |
 Photo: Matt Borg |
 Photo: Bernd Zimmermann |
Tour the imposing Town Hall buildings |
Pinstone Street Pinstone St Sheffield, South Yorkshire S1 2HH +44 114 272 6444 http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/ firstpoint@sheffield.gov.uk |
Take advantage of an unprecedented opportunity to take a tour of the imposing, Victorian buildings of Sheffield Town Hall. The tour takes about 90 minutes and visitors are guided through the main Council Chamber and meeting rooms, the impressive reception suites and the Lord Mayor's Parlour. A good deal of Sheffield's social history is explained along the way. This is a rare opportunity for anyone interested in Sheffield's past (or future) and is not to be missed! Tours should be booked in advance on the above number. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: michael evans |
 Photo: Lam KC |
 Photo: Katherine |
Easy five mile walk along canal towpath |
2 Furnival Rd Sheffield, South Yorkshire S2 5SY |
This walk is a must for industrial history enthusiasts and for anyone with an interest in Sheffield's development; it passes through the areas formerly occupied by the steelworks which made Sheffield famous. The route, which is signposted at points of entrance, follows the Sheffield and Tinsley canal from Victoria Quays in the city centre to the Meadowhall Shopping Centre and includes several locks. The canal has been restored in recent years and is now a habitat for many species of wildlife. It is also a favourite destination for many local anglers. Walkers of all standards can enjoy this walk: the towpath is well-maintained and is largely leveled throughout. Access to the trail can readily be made at several points on the canal, all of which are served by the Supertram. Refreshments may be obtained at Victoria Quays, Meadowhall, or at any of the public houses along the canal's route. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew |
 Photo: Mark Lucas |
 Photo: Andrew |
Ceremonies and concerts |
Broad Street Oxford OX1 3AZ +44 1865 27 7299 http://www.sheldon.ox.ac.uk/ custodian@sheldon.ox.ac.uk |
Round buildings usually stand out from the surrounding architecture, and the Sheldonian is no exception. Visitors can't help but wonder what goes on inside, not least because the 'Emperors' heads' on the wall on Broad Street give the place such an imposing air. Primarily, the Sheldonian is a university building, used for major meetings and ceremonies. At other times, it is used as a concert venue. The theatre is an excellent setting, particularly for classical recitals, although the tiered seating can be slightly uncomfortable. This is a historically important building as it was the first major one to be designed by Sir Christopher Wren, who at the time was only 31 and a professor of astronomy. The design is based on the Marcellus Theatre in Rome and the theatre is named after Archbishop Sheldon (University Chancellor and Archbishop of Canterbury) who paid for its construction. Opening hours are irregular, depending on ceremonies, concerts and rehearsals. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: phenwoods |
 Photo: Jeff Neher |
 Photo: Bruce Clarke |
A taste of Sheffield's industrial heritage |
Whiteley Woods Sheffield, South Yorkshire +44 114 272 2106 http://www.simt.co.uk/ postmaster@simt.co.uk |
Visit Shepherd Wheel, also known as "Mr Shepherd's Grinding Shop", for a taste of Sheffield's industrial heritage. Used to grind cutlery, the site, which lies in the picturesque Whiteley Woods beside the River Porter, was operational from the 1500s to the 1930s. The Wheel is named after a Mr Shepherd, who employed dozens of workers here in 1784, when water-powered grinding works were very common along the riverbanks of Sheffield. However, the lethal dust from the grindstones ensured that few grinders ever saw old age, with 50 per cent of workers dying before the age of 30. Some of the old machines are still kept here and visitors who see them will get a very strong sense of just how dreadful conditions once were here, despite the lovely woodland setting. Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: bill williams |
A gift from Bochum (Sheffield's twin city) |
Peace Gardens Pinstone Street Sheffield, South Yorkshire S1 2HH +44 114 221 1900 (Sheffield Tourism Bureau) |
This large black bell was presented to the people of Sheffield by the people of Bochum, Germany in May 1986, to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the twinning of the two cities. The bell is about a metre high and stands mounted on timbers at the edge of the newly refurbished Peace Gardens, next to the Town Hall. In a gesture of reconciliation, the bell was refurbished at the famous Krupps steelworks in Bochum before the presentation. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: marinegirl2007 |
Take to the skies |
Terminal Building Paisley Way Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex BN43 5FF +44 1273 29 6900 http://www.shorehamairport.co.uk admin@shorehamairport.co.uk |
The UK's oldest licensed airport is a popular spot for local people to while away an afternoon. The art deco terminal building retains the atmosphere of a more leisurely era of air travel. There is a bar and restaurant area with views over the landing strip. A new visitor centre incorporates an airport exhibition and archive, and will arrange pleasure flights and trial lessons. Guided tours of the airport explain its past and present. A scheduled summer service to Le Touquet, Northern France, also operates from Shoreham. The airport has full customs and immigration facilities and air traffic control. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matthew Thompson |
 Photo: Matthew Thompson |
 Photo: Tim |
Modern architectural designs |
Sidgwick Avenue Cambridge CB3 9DA +44 1223 322640 http://www.ucas.ac.uk eng@ucas.ac.uk |
The Sidgwick Site, a 10-minute walk from the city centre, is home to many of the university's arts faculties including History, Modern and Medieval Languages, English and Philosophy. The Museum of Classical Archaeology is also here. Most of the buildings are functional designs from the 60s but two in particular stand out. James Stirling designed the History Faculty Building in 1964. The glass library roof descends in steps towards the brick and glass ground floor. When the design was first revealed, it attracted harsh criticism from traditionalists. Better received by contemporaries was the new Law Faculty, designed by Norman Foster (architect of Stansted Airport) in 1995. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Wendy Mann |
 Photo: john levett |
 Photo: Notis Toufexis |
Historical meat market |
West Smithfields Clerkenwell London, London EC1M +44 20 7236 8734 |
Smithfields is one of a kind, still on its original site and still using porters to carry the meat carcasses. It only sells wholesale, but you can buy smaller cuts of meat from the poultry section. Try to visit in the wee hours, perhaps after a night of clubbing in the area, to get a real feel - not to mention smell - of the place. Afterwards, why not visit the historical Fox and Anchor pub, which starts serving at 7a specially for the market workers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Ledger |
 Photo: Sonia Khan |
Brilliant bric a brac |
7/8 Kensington Gardens North Laine Brighton BN1 4AL +44 (0)1273 60 2558 |
Snooper's Paradise holds thousands of square feet of antiques, bric a brac and vintage clothing over two floors. There is a small Art Deco section on the first floor, which is worth visiting. The new-age club-wear looks slightly out of place in the window display, but it adds to the eclecticism of this Aladdin's cave. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ben Perkins |
 Photo: that_james |
 Photo: LozzaK |
So much to Soho |
Soho Street London, London W1D |
Originally called King's Square, this square was first laid out in the year 1961. It was named after King Charles II, and his statue graces the centre of the square. It is considered the most prestigious address of various London media organizations. The French Protestant Church and St. Patrick's Catholic Church stand in the vicinity of the square. The place is a favorite spot among picnic-goers who come here to unwind after an eventful day of shopping and sightseeing. If you're looking forward to grab a bottle of beer and chill with friends, then Soho Square has a number of watering holes too. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: moonfullofstarz |
 Photo: Jolyon Hunter |
 Photo: eyedropper.co.uk |
Open Air Fun |
Somerset House Strand London, London WC2R 1LA +1 020 7845 4676 info@rslit.org |
If you're looking for fun, this is the place to visit. A thriving cultural spot in London, this has an ice rink and holds special workshops, events and world class exhibitions. This magnificent 18th century building houses the celebrated collections of the Courtauld Institute of Art, Gilbert Collection and Hermitage Rooms. Enjoy the wonderful outdoor space with the incredible Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court and pop into one of the many cafes and restaurants that dot the promenade. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Melyssa |
 Photo: Paul Robinson |
 Photo: Gaetan Lee |
Margaret Thatcher's college |
Woodstock Road Oxford, Oxfordshire OX2 6HD +44 1865 27 0600 |
In 1878, a committee was established to promote the admission of women to the university by founding a female hall of residence. Somerville Hall emerged, and the fact that it can boast Indira Gandhi and Margaret Thatcher amongst its alumni is proof indeed of its success in furthering the cause of women's studies. Somerville was also the first of the four women's halls to employ its own tutors, the first to call itself a college (1894), and the first to become a full college (1951). Visits possible at most times on application. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rosie Shakespear |
 Photo: Ed Merritt |
 Photo: Emily Barney |
Post-war culture boom |
Belvedere Road Near Waterloo Station London, London SE1 8XX +44 8703 800 400 http://www.southbankcentre.org... |
The South Bank Centre was created in the 1960s, after the Festival of Britain in 1951 inspired renewed interest in the arts scene in the United Kingdom. Although it is one of the top cultural venues in the city, it typifies 60s architecture and is, therefore, not pretty. The South Bank Centre is made up of the Royal National Theatre (comprising the Olivier, Lyttelton and Cottesloe theatres), and the National Film Theatre which shows the cream of international art-house films. The South Bank district is home to many other galleries and attractions, such as Vinopolis. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andreas Georghiou |
 Photo: gareth wall |
Debate and discussion in Hyde Park |
North East corner of Hyde Park near Marble Arch London, London W2 2UH http://www.speakerscorner.net/ |
In 1872, an Act of Parliament was passed allowing a space in the north-eastern corner of London's Hyde Park to be given over for public speaking. At that time Speakers' Corner was a place where thousands would turn up to debate serious political issues of the day. Even today, Speakers' Corner is one of Britain's most famous places for public debate and discussion, but the difference is that the crowds are far fewer in number and the orators present are usually of the type issuing prophecies of an impending global apocalypse. Every Sunday the crowds of tourists still congregate at Speakers' Corner, more out of curiosity than enlightenment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Reza Masoudi Nejad |
 Photo: Yoz Grahame |
Guided tour of underground caves by boat |
Winnat's Pass Castleton Hope Valley, Derbyshire S33 8WA +44 1433 62 0512 http://www.speedwellcavern.co.uk info@speedwellcavern.co.uk |
The entrance to this cave is at Winnat's Pass, which is carved out through the Peak District hills. It is a beautiful setting in which to wait for the barge-like boats that take visitors through disused mine workings to a lofty cave. Alight here to admire the stalactites above and try to gauge the depths of the underground lake (known as the Bottomless Pit) at the back of the cave. This impressive outing is for the able-bodied only, since the boats are reached by negotiating a flight of 105 damp rough-hewn steps. A gift-shop and refreshments are available at the surface. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Howard Gees |
 Photo: Howard Gees |
Modern sculpture |
Centenary Square Birmingham B1 2AE +44 121 643 2514 |
As redevelopment work in Birmingham gathered pace in the 1990s, so public art was incorporated into the new developments. Spirit of Enterprise is an example, and is unmissable as the visitor crosses Centenary Square towards the International Convention Centre. It is both a sculpture and a water feature, with three bronze dishes supporting heads that are allegories of Commerce, Industry, and Enterprise. Fountains play around the sculpture, not only making an impressive addition to the streetscape but also giving children a chance to soak themselves in hot weather. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tim Ellis |
Organic Chocolate |
Commercial Street, between Lamb and Brushfield Streets Shoreditch London, London E1 |
This beautiful warehouse is pure joy for organic food devotees. Three large fruit & veg stalls, bread, fresh tofu, chocolate (do try the chocolate cinnamon almonds), meat, a juice bar, and an ever-burgeoning selection of home-made goodies are on offer along with arts and crafts. Stay until the evening and catch a show or concert at The Spitz, an innovative performing/visual arts space with its own cafe. Although Spitalfields is continuously growing in popularity among locals and increasingly, visitors, it might be moved nearby to accommodate a future trade. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeremy Riggs |
Founded by Frenchman |
Woodstock Road Oxford, Oxfordshire OX2 6JF +44 1865 28 4700 |
The only Oxford College to be founded by a foreigner, Antonin Besse chose Oxford when the French government rejected his plan to build a college in his native country. The college, which opened in 1950 with four students, is for graduates only, and specialises in international studies. Today, more than half of its nearly 300 members come from overseas. The entrance building was originally a convent built in 1868 by Marian Hughes, the first woman to become a nun in the Church of England. Visits possible at most times by appointment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Janet McKnight |
One of the biggest |
Manor Road Oxford University Campus Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3UJ +44 1865 27 1700 |
St Catherine's is amongst the largest colleges in Oxford and its buildings, designed by the Dane Arne Jacobsen, aim to provide a traditional college layout within a thoroughly modern setting. The college wasn't founded until 1962, but it's roots go back to 1868, when the university first allowed students to matriculate without having to belong to a college or academic hall. These non-collegiate students soon began to meet in St Catherine's Hall and called themselves St Catherine's Club. In 1931, this became St Catherine's Society, and 30 years later the college was finally established. Visits possible at most times by appointment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Meghann Gordon |
 Photo: Meghann Gordon |
 Photo: David Jefferies |
"Teddy Hall" |
Queen's Lane Oxford Univeristy Campus Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 4AR +44 1865 27 9000 http://www.seh.ox.ac.uk |
This college is named after St Edmund of Abingdon, who in the 1190s taught in a house on this site. Known as Teddy Hall and founded in 1238, it was the last surviving medieval hall, and retained the title till 1957 when it gained full college status. Teddy Hall has the smallest front quadrangle in Oxford, despite the fact that it is one of the biggest colleges in the university, in terms of the number of dons and students. Nowadays though, you're almost as likely to see delegates walking through the college as you are to find students, since this is one of the most popular conference venues in town. Open during daylight hours (except mornings) in Trinity term. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: giles sanders |
 Photo: Lauren Gehrig |
 Photo: Francisca |
Postgraduate college |
Mount Pleasant Cambridge CB3 0BN +44 1223 33 6250 http://www.st-edmunds.cam.ac.uk/ college.office@st-edmunds.cam.ac.uk |
St Edmund's College was originally a Roman Catholic college which opened in 1896 and founded by the Duke of Norfolk and Baron Anatole von Hügel. In 1965 it became a postgraduate college, attaining full collegiate status in 1975 and becoming a full college of the University in Cambridge 10 years later in 1985. The college welcomes members of any faith or religion and in 1987 it founded the Von Hügel Institute which aims to research the interplay between Christianity and civil society. The college has unpredictable opening hours. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kaet44 |
Finest Greco-Roman building in Europe |
Lime Street Liverpool, Merseyside L1 1JJ +44 151 707 2391 |
Described as the finest Greco-Roman building in Europe, this magnificent landmark is a fine example of the outstanding architecture within the city. Built in 1842, this Grade I listed building was originally built as a concert hall and two assize courts. The original architect Harvey Lonsdale Elmes died of consumption before the building was complete and his successor ,Charles Robert Cockerell ,altered the design so that the interior resembled a Roman public bath. The Great Hall is famed for the Minton tiled floor, the Willis Organ, vaulted ceiling, fine sculpture and plasterwork. The assizes courts and the concert room are often seen in film and television productions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Vuk Cosic |
 Photo: Michael Dunne |
 Photo: Livie Ong |
The perfect meeting place |
City Centre York, North Yorkshire YO1 8QN +44 (0)1904 55 0099 (Tourist Information) |
St Helens Square is home to some of York's most charming buildings and shops. Here you will find St Helens Church and the Mansion House, formally the home of the Lord Mayor of York during his/her year of office. The grand Harkers Cafe/Bar stands on the site of the principle entrance to the city, dating back to Roman times. This rich cluster of historic buildings house both Betty's Tea Rooms and Burgins Perfumery. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Littlewood |
 Photo: Max Timchenko |
 Photo: A. Soulikias |
Women's college |
Cowley Place Oxford OX4 1DY +44 1865 27 6884 http://www.st-hildas.ox.ac.uk/ outreach@st-hildas.ox.ac.uk |
St Hilda's has stood against the tide of colleges giving up their single-sex status, and is now the only all-female college in Oxford. It owes its existence to Dorothea Beale, the Principal of Cheltenham Ladies College, who wanted to provide an Oxford education for some of her pupils. To achieve this, she opened a residential hall in Oxford in 1893 and named it St Hilda's Hall, after a 7th-century abbess from Whitby in Yorkshire. In the early years, St Hilda's had close links with the Teacher Training College at Cheltenham but these links were broken when women were finally admitted to Oxford University in 1920. The college now also boasts an acclaimed classical music venue: the Jacqueline du Pre Music Building, home to many concerts and performances. Visit the website to see what events are coming up. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin Jenkins |
 Photo: Sylvia Sidharta |
College founded for women |
St Margaret's Road Oxford, Oxfordshire OX2 6LE +44 1865 27 4900 |
St Hugh's may be slightly off the beaten track in north Oxford, but it's a pleasant area to explore when you've seen all the city centre has to offer, and after all, this college has an interesting history. In 1886, the first principal of Lady Margaret Hall, Elizabeth Wordsworth, rented a house to enable four financially needy women to study for Oxford examinations. She named it St Hugh's Hall in honour of a medieval predecessor of her father, the Bishop of Lincoln. This initiative was not without initial trauma. In 1911, the principal and her deputy published an anonymous account of a psychic experience they had shared in Versailles when they had apparently seen Marie-Antoinette. Although opponents to the presence of women at Oxford seized this incident as proof of lack of feminine rationality and intellect, both St Hugh's and the women's cause continued to prosper. Visits possible at most times on application. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah Hecht |
 Photo: Richard & Rebecca Fi |
Beautiful gardens |
St Giles Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3JP +44 1865 27 7300 http://www.sjc.ox.ac.uk/ |
St John's isn't on the main tourist trail of colleges, but it has some outstanding features that make it well worth visiting. Founded in 1437 as St Bernard's (a college for Cistercian students), it was dissolved in 1539 and became St John's 16 years later under the patronage of merchant tailor Sir Thomas White. St John's remained a single-sex college until women were admitted in 1979. The peaceful atmosphere of Canterbury Quad, with its impressive classical architecture, is the ideal setting for the gates through to the college gardens. Designed by Capability Brown in the 18th century, they are perhaps the finest to be found in any Oxford college. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Claudio Chagas |
 Photo: Chris Lewis |
 Photo: Nick Atkins |
Rags and riches |
Edgbaston Street Bull Ring Birmingham B5 4RB +44 121 303 0300 marketstalls@birmingham.gov.uk |
This is the new name for what was the old Rag Market, and it remains a great place to find bargains. The market is only open three days a week, holds 350 stalls and sells material and trimmings at cheap prices. Other goods on offer include carpets, rugs, clothes and household items. The market is always extremely busy at the weekends and is popular amongst the students for its cheap and trendy second-hand clothing. There is a well-stocked haberdashery section too. This is an area where you'll find a complete fusion of cultures - a place that has to be visited. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pogus Caesar / OOM G |
Major coastal landmark |
St Mary's Lighthouse St Mary's Island Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear NE26 4RS +44 191 200 8650 http://www.stmarys-lighthouse.... |
Climb the 137 steps to the top of the Lighthouse and you're guaranteed spectacular views of the North East coast and a panorama inland which will make any visit worthwhile. There's a video facility showing the same views, live, at ground level for those unable to make the climb. St Mary's Lighthouse is on a small island reached between the tides via a short causeway. It was built in 1898 and decommissioned in 1984. The Lighthouse and keeper's cottage form part of the surrounding Nature Reserve with its grassland, beach, and wetland habitats. Ample car-parking is available for a small charge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ricky Kelly |
Founded in 1929 |
New Inn Hall Street Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 2DL +44 1865 27 8900 |
St Peter's stands at the eastern boundary of the medieval city. The college itself was founded in 1929, making it one of the universities, 'younger' colleges, but some of its buildings are much older. The church of St Peter-le-Bailey, designed by Basil Champneys in the late 19th century) is now the college chapel - there has been a church on the site for 900 years. Visits possible at most times of the day on application. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jesse Imbach |
 Photo: John Ward |
Old market tradition |
Corn Street Bristol BS1 1JQ +44 (0)117 922 4017 |
This 250 year-old market is divided into three parts—Exchange Hall, Glass Arcade and Covered Market—each with a slightly different focus. The Exchange Hall is the only part completely enclosed and contains a wide variety of stalls selling clothes, candles, jewellery, second-hand books, crockery and sweets. It also houses a cafe and even a resident psychic! Glass Arcade features Real Olive Company, and South west Fine Foods and a selection of vegetables, flowers, food and vintage clothing. Covered Market offers second-hand book shops, a milliner's, cafes, jewellery and a computer repair unit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Chapple |
 Photo: Dru Marland |
 Photo: Graham Tait |
Unusual statue of political reformer |
Chamberlain Square Birmingham B3 3HQ +44 121 693 6300 (Tourist Information) |
The statue of this noted 19th century political reformer lies at the rear of the Town Hall, close to Chamberlain Square. Don't look up for a familiar plinth; instead, look down. His life-sized figure reclines on the steps leading into the square and often causes a double take from passing pedestrians who are unfamiliar with the area. He is reading some papers, and more are scattered around, leading to a soapbox from which he has presumably just stepped. Erected (if that's the word) in 1993, this is one of the city's wittier and more interesting sculptures. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tim Ellis |
 Photo: Joseph Nieforth |
Famous Victorian market hall |
Stockport Market Stockport Manchester SK1 1ES +44 161 474 3523 |
Renowned as one of the oldest and biggest markets in the region, Stockport's is also famed for its superb, listed Victorian glass market hall, which was even featured in a Thomas Hardy novel. The bustling covered food hall, in the centre of the market, offers good value meats, great fresh fish and home-made cakes and pastries. Also worth checking out are the household linen, plants and flowers, fancy button and alternative remedy stalls. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Trevira |
 Photo: joe |
 Photo: David Johnson |
Ancient stone circle |
PO Box 1546 Stonehenge, Amesbury Salisbury, Wiltshire SP2 8RG +44 1980 62 4715 |
This legendary, ancient stone circle is as old as the pyramids of Egypt and is one of the most famous historical landmarks in Great Britain. Classified as a World Heritage Site, it is of unique importance. You can take an audio tour of the stones, in a choice of nine languages, and discover more about this incredible feat of engineering, as well as listen to the various theories as to why Stonehenge was built. Refreshments are available, plus a gift shop. Admission: adults £4.20, children £2.20, family £10.60. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: grimsb |
 Photo: Mark Couvillion |
 Photo: Kimberly McKinnis |
One of the world's most famous prehistoric monuments |
2 miles west of Amesbury On junction of A303 and A344/A360 Amesbury, Wiltshire SP4 7DE +44 1980 62 4715 |
Probably the most famous ancient stone monument of the western world, it is hardly the largest or the most magnificent, yet it has occupied the thoughts and dreams of millions and filled bookshelves with theories of what it was meant for and why it was built. Usually crowded during the day, in the early morning or the evening as the rooks come back to roost Stonehenge recaptures its ancient magic. Begun around 5000 years ago, Stonehenge has been altered and revised several times over the millennia. The 80 stones that made up the two internal circles were transported from Wales, and later on great blocks of sarsen stone were brought from Wiltshire, dressed and fitted together on site. One thing we know for certain is that it was not built by Druids, as it predates them by nearly 2000 years. Admission: GBP4; child GBP2. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Star C. Foster |
 Photo: denden celso |
 Photo: Steve Liput |
Big & Brash |
Brighton Station Car Park (off Trafalgar Street) Brighton, East Sussex +44 1895 63 9912 |
Serious bargain hunters will reach this huge market in the early hours, but most people stroll in after a leisurely Sunday brunch. It gets busy but as it is hidden behind Brighton's train station it remains an enigma to many Brightonians. Expect to find record stalls, furniture, antiques, clothes, a butcher and a fruit and vegetable stall amongst the regular crowd of car booters selling general junk. There is a cafe selling bacon sandwiches and cups of tea to replenish your strength after a lap of the market. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Charlie Coombes |
 Photo: Scarycrow |
 Photo: brunswicksquare |
Modern and 20th century art |
Millbank (Westminster) London, London SW1P 4RG +44 (0)20 7887 8000 / +44 (0)20 7887 8888 http://www.tate.org.uk/ ticketing@tate.org.uk |
Tate Britain is a part of the Tate Gallery in Britain. Opened in 1897, its edifice is beautiful and palatial with huge columns, and stone sculptures adorning the roof. Exhibiting Britain art from 1500 to present, the gallery is also known for its support of new and contemporary multimedia artists. The modern art on display ranges from the Pre-Raphaelite period to Cubism. Giacometti, Picasso, Moore, Hepworth and Warhol are among those on show, and the gallery also annually exhibits the artists that are short-listed for the Turner Prize. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Aubrey Stoll |
 Photo: Bill |
Art gallery in disused power station |
Sumner Street (Bankside) London, London SE1 9TG +44 20 7887 8000 http://www.tate.org.uk |
Opened in 2000, this gallery has amazed both industry insiders, art lovers and tourists and detractors are few and far between. The museum, located among the drab, concrete blocks of Bankside, has few of its original features; it used to be a 1950's power station. Inside, there are many innovative and attention-grabbing works, with a variety from 1900 to the present, from the most important artists of the century to today's rising stars. Admission is free, but a donation is appreciated. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marc Rettig |
 Photo: Fod Tzellos |
 Photo: John Cassidy |
Modern languages centre |
St Giles Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3NA +44 1865 27 8154 http://www.taylib.ox.ac.uk/ enquiries@taylib.ox.ac.uk |
Known as 'The Taylorian' and completed in 1844, this building, with its impressive classical features inside and out, houses lecture theatres, offices and the main libraries and reading rooms of the Modern Languages Faculty, and is used mainly by students of the university. The female statues on top of the four Ionic columns represent France, Italy, Germany and Spain, whose languages are the main ones taught in the building. Please note that this building is not open to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nick Wright |
 Photo: Jill Schlicher |
Impressive statue of Sheffield teemers |
Meadowhall Centre Meadowhall Sheffield, South Yorkshire S9 1EJ +44 845 600 6800 |
Sheffield and steel-making are, of course, inseparable, and the hard work and effort that went into Sheffield's intensive manufacture of steel are commemorated by the Teeming statue, which is set adjacent to Woolworths in the Meadowhall Shopping Centre. Those who know about the process may wonder why only three men are shown teeming here when in reality it took four to do the job. The answer is that the inclusion of the youngest (who was usually only eight or nine years old) was thought to be politically incorrect by the sculptor, Robin Bell. The statue depicts a fifteen-year-old apprentice skimming slag from the molten metal, caught by the "dozzle" of the two-and-a-half-metre-tall aproned figure. Interestingly, boxing enthusiasts might recognize the dozzler - the sculptor used the face of heavyweight boxer Priomo Carnera as his model. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Littlewood |
Famous landmark with aesthetic appeal |
Lionel Street Birmingham B3 1HQ +44 121 693 6300 |
Standing just short of 500 feet in height, the Telecom Tower is a major Birmingham landmark and can easily be seen from some distance outside the city. Its purpose is given away by both its name and by the cluster of satellite dishes and aerials which crown the building, and it is a functional construction, erected in the 1960s. But its clean lines are not without aesthetic appeal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James Clarke |
 Photo: Nick Foley |
Flood protection |
Unity Way London, London SE18 5NJ +44 20 8305 4188 http://www.greenwich.gov.uk/Gr... learningcentre@environment-agency.gov.uk |
This construction cost a staggering £500 million, but it is an essential defence against the natural disaster of flooding. It has been used more than 20 times since it came into existence in 1982. A model of the barrier is in the Visitor Centre, as is much information pertaining to the purpose of the barrier, how it works and how it was built. The futuristic barriers bear an uncanny resemblance to a fragmented Sydney Opera House - go and see it for yourself! Once a year in autumn, the barrier is tested, allowing you to see the steel gates raised at high tide. Call for information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jon |
 Photo: Nick Woodcraft |
Founding fathers |
Broad Street Birmingham B1 2DY |
This is the name sometimes given to a monument to three great industrialists and entrepreneurs, Matthew Boulton, James Watt and William Murdoch, who founded much of the city's prosperity in the 18th century. The three larger than life, gold-coloured figures stand on a plinth outside the Registry Office on Broad Street. They consult a large sheet of paper - a plan or blueprint, perhaps - as they discuss their visions of the future. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: bitstreamphotography |
In memory of locals lost in the disaster |
East Park Southampton, Hampshire SO14 0YN |
This memorial honors the memory of local officers who served as engineers on the Titanic and were lost in the disaster. Erected by their fellow engineers and friends, it pays tribute to their "high conception of their duty and their heroism" for remaining at their posts as the ship went down. The memorial depicts an angel standing at the bow of a ship and lists the names of those lost. It sits at the cusp of East Park and can be viewed from Above Bar Street. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: idleformat |
 Photo: Paul Cummings |
 Photo: Marc-Oliver Teschke |
Memorial to the catering staff of the Titanic |
St Joseph's Church 84 Bugle Street Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AH |
This memorial honors the memory of the large number of crew members from Southampton who were on the Titanic. Most of them were Catholic and came from the parish of St Joseph's. The memorial is in the form of a table with an inscribed plaque and was donated by the Stella Maris Club, which at that time looked after the spiritual and pastoral well-being of its nautical parishioners. On 15th April 1972, the Steward's Memorial Fountain was relocated in the Holyrood church after years of neglect. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rhys Jones |
Eye-catching entrance to Christ Church |
Christ Church St Aldates Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 1DP +44 1865 27 6150 |
Standing over the entrance to the most famous Oxford college, Tom Tower is a landmark in itself. This imposing octagonal tower with a lead-covered cupola was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1682. It was constructed on top of an archway and turrets dating from the 16th century and houses Great Tom - the loudest bell in Oxford. Weighing more than seven tons, the bell chimes 101 times at 9.05p every evening to recall not only the 101 students residing in Christ Church when the tower was completed, but also the time by which they were supposed to be in bed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Richard |
 Photo: Jim Thorne |
 Photo: Adam Piontek |
Memorial to comedy genius |
corporation street Birmingham B4 6PG +44 121 643 2514 |
Placed in Old Square in the city centre, this statue honours comedian Tony Hancock who was born in Hall Green, Birmingham in 1924 and tragically committed suicide in 1968. Hancock was the archetypal "man in the street" and his radio and television programmes, Hancock's Half Hour, are seen as classics of British comedy. The monument itself is of a modern style; a huge flat image showing Hancock's face with some quotations around the statue base. It was unveiled in 1996 by Sir Harry Secombe. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rosalind Mitchell |
 Photo: Duncan |
 Photo: Doeth |
Fine neo-Jacobean building |
St Aldates Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 1BX +44 1865 25 2195 http://www.oxford.gov.uk/touri... TownHall@oxford.gov.uk |
The weather vane on the roof of the grand, neo-Jacobean town hall is a reminder of the city's distant past, when it was called Oxenford. Opened by the Prince of Wales (later Edward VII) in 1897, the building originally housed a library and law courts. When both eventually required larger premises, the Museum of Oxford moved into the space left vacant by the library and the law rooms became meeting rooms. Today, the town hall is used for local government meetings, and also as a conference venue. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joao F. Ferreira |
 Photo: Keith Merriman |
 Photo: James Bell |
Home of Nelson's Column |
Trafalgar Square London, London http://www.london.gov.uk/mayor... |
Trafalgar Square was built following the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The man responsible for this famous naval victory, which finally destroyed French naval power and secured Britain from invasion, was Admiral Horatio Nelson. A column, with an 18ft statue of Nelson at the summit is the centrepiece of the Square. At the base of the column are the renowned Landseer lions. Renovations in 2003 removed traffic lanes to make room for a sizable staircase, connecting the National Portrait Gallery to the square. The National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery border one side of the Square, and it's a good place to sit and soak up the atmosphere on a sunny day. The Square is also famous for the large number of pigeons that congregate there. It's one of the main places that visitors come to take pictures. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Hepburn |
 Photo: Karen Pritchett |
 Photo: Luke Seemann |
A high class shopping experience |
Exchange Square Manchester M4 3TR +44 161 834 8961 |
The Triangle is another example of the awesome pace of redevelopment within Manchester city centre. Created from the fine, Victorian Corn Exchange buildings - close to the cathedral - it has become a high class shopping centre, offering some of the best shops, restaurants and bars in Manchester. There are plenty of places to visit over 3 floors including Space NK, Calvin Klein, Jigsaw and the only Zinc Bar and Grill outside London. The top floors of the development are also home to major local radio station Galaxy 102. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Richard Fair |
 Photo: Henry Law |
 Photo: Neil T |
Secluded college |
Broad Street Oxford OX1 3BH +44 1865 27 9900 http://www.trinity.ox.ac.uk/ |
While walking along Parks Road, pause at the large wrought iron gates set in the wall on the west side of the street, and you will not fail to be impressed by the grandeur of Trinity College gardens. Do not, however, be tempted to look for a college entrance of equal stature. Enter Trinity through a narrow gate, squashed between the houses of Broad Street, to see the baroque chapel, the Garden Quad (originally designed in part by Christopher Wren) and the rest of the fine gardens. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eduardo Munive |
 Photo: Jonelle Lonergan |
 Photo: Nettie Hendricks |
One of England's most ancient universities |
The Old Schools Trinity Lane Cambridge CB2 1TN +44 1223 33 7733 http://www.cam.ac.uk/ registrary@admin.cam.ac.uk |
Most first-time visitors to Cambridge come with one aim: to see the university. But where is it? There is no sole university site, but rather the university's 31 colleges are scattered around the city. The university is said to date from 1209, when students fled riots in Oxford and settled in Cambridge. The oldest, Peterhouse, was founded in 1284; the newest, Robinson, in 1977. The colleges come in all shapes and sizes: from small postgraduate Clare Hall, built in the late 60s, to the grand Tudor expanse of Trinity. Every student is affiliated to a college, and each college is self-governing and financially independent. The university controls the faculties, subject departments, central administration (the Old Schools and the Senate House), museums, the printing press and the Botanic Garden. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kendra and Jamie |
 Photo: © ben watkins |
 Photo: lukemerrill@mac.com |
Fantastically ornate building |
Corporation Street Birmingham B4 6QA +44 121 212 6603 |
A real architectural gem, the foundation stone to this beautiful terracotta building was laid by Queen Victoria herself in 1887. It's not to be confused with the modern Queen Elizabeth Courts in nearby Dalton Street—not that you could confuse the two. This monumental edifice is lavishly decorated with fine sculptures and prompted a rash of terracotta buildings elsewhere in the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tim Sargent |
 Photo: Maisie Pike,nee Pinder |
 Photo: Rainer Ebert |
Historic and elegant |
Briggate Leeds LS1 6AZ +44 113 245 5333 http://www.vqleeds.com |
Those with a taste for haute couture will find no better place to spend a few hours than this elegant arcade. Home to some of the biggest names in fashion, including Vivienne Westwood and Karen Millen), the Victoria Quarter has become one of Leeds' main shopping attractions. If you can tear your eyes away from the colourful window displays, take a glance at the ceiling, which features the largest stained-glass window in the country. After a day of shopping, recharge your batteries in one of the Quarter's excellent cafes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christopher Porter |
 Photo: Paul Green |
 Photo: Paul Bradley |
Expensively refurbished public square |
New Street (Victoria Square) Birmingham B1 1BD +44 121 693 6300 |
This square has transformed over the past decade from a grassy slope where office workers would picnic on a summer's afternoon to a pedestrian-friendly European plaza accessible all year. Birmingham's Town Hall and Council House are located on the square, but graded steps replace the slope and there's now a large fountain containing a sculpture known fondly by locals as the Floozie in the Jacuzzi. Stone lamps and statues of sphinxes adorn the grounds, as does a statue of Queen Victoria. Victoria Square has now become a popular meeting point and relaxing place to people watch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mike warren |
 Photo: Molly Rose |
 Photo: Kevin Shakespeare |
Channel ports, Gatwick Airport, suburban services |
Terminus Place London, London SW1 |
Trains to/from Channel ports; suburban trains to south and south-east London; Gatwick Express to Gatwick Airport. Also suburban trains to south and south-east London. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Casper Myers |
 Photo: Ian |
 Photo: Aloysio M. A. Junior |
Interactive wine experience |
No.1 Bank End London, London SE1 9BU +44 20 7940 8322 / +44 870 241 4040 http://www.vinopolis.co.uk/ sales@vinopolis.co.uk |
Vinopolis, a must for any wine lover, is an interactive, multimedia wine ""adult theme park"" opened along the Millennium Mile in the summer of 1999. It contains two wine bars, a champagne bar, a giftshop, an art gallery, wine schools and clubs, banqueting and conference facilities, a coffee shop and a gourmet, sit-down restaurant - they've thought of everything. Your entrance ticket allows you five tastings from over 200 wines. More tasting vouchers can be bought inside. Vinopolis also offers wine tasting introductory sessions and even tips for tasting champagne. This is the first of its type in the world and is sure to be of great interest to both tourists and Londoners. Under 18's should be accompanied by an adult. The admission price also includes a personal audio guide which is available in a variety of languages. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alice Redona |
 Photo: emmajc |
Britain's first electric railway |
285 Madeira Drive Brighton BN2 1EN +44 1273 29 2718 / +44 (0)1273 68 1061 |
Built and opened in 1883 by local inventor Magnus Volk, this was the first public electric railway in the UK. It runs from Brighton Pier to Black Rock, near Brighton Marina, considerably more than its original quarter-mile journey. The track is right next to the beach and it is a lovely little ride along the seafront in open-sided carriages. A long running and ever popular attraction. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Les Chatfield |
 Photo: Henry Law |
 Photo: Nikki Acott |
Jacobean-style college |
Parks Road Oxford University Campus Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3PN +44 1865 27 7900 http://www.wadham.ox.ac.uk/ |
When Nicholas Wadham died in 1609, his will included the provision of a new college in Oxford. His widow Dorothy carried out his plan to such good effect that Wadham was founded in 1612, only three years after her husband's death. It was so well designed and laid out in the Oxford-Jacobean style that no major modifications have been necessary. The original statutes prevented the Warden (head of the college) from marrying and it required a special act of Parliament nearly 200 years later in 1806 to change them. During holidays, the college is only open from 10a-11:30a, daily. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hamdard |
 Photo: Jeff Barr |
 Photo: Andrew Wallace |
Walk those streets |
Hoe Street to St James's Street Walthamstow London, London E17 http://www.lbwf.gov.uk/index/l... |
With many of the city's more famous markets either being increasingly geared towards tourists (Portobello Road, Camden) or infested with ultra-chic urbanites (Spitalfields, Brick Lane), it's comforting to know that this East London market still manages to retain a sense of community spirit. The longest daily street market in Europe, it stretches from Hoe Street to St James's Street and offers some of the best bargains in town; whether you're looking for vintage clothes, fruit and veg, home appliances, fabrics or, er, dog food. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Justin Cormack |
 Photo: Esther Simpson |
 Photo: Julio Romo |
Stately Statuary |
Waterloo Place (Westminster) London SW1Y |
Waterloo Place, a pleasant square just off The Mall, is home to a troop of statues that tell the tale of the Victorian Era. War heroes and noblemen like the Duke of York, Edward VII, Florence Nightingale, Lord Herbert of Lea, Field Marshall J.F. Burgoyne, Lords Lawrence and Clyde, John Franklin and Scott of the Antarctic are represented. Memorial to the Crimea pays homage to the many soldiers that gave their lives for the good of the British Empire. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Sumner |
 Photo: Joan Manzo |
 Photo: Gilbert Derus |
Asian delights |
199-337 Whitechapel Road London, London E1 1DT |
If you need those special spices or vegetables for that South Asian meal you're making, then this market is the place to come. Every type of speciality Asian ingredient and spice is here, from cyan pepper to creamed coconut. All of which makes the market a glorious combination of colours, smells and cultures. If not, enjoy browsing through rather spaced out stalls - at the beginning of the century, the roads needed to accommodate the hay market - of clothes, appliances, bric-a-brac and linen. Renowned kosher deli, Blooms, is just down the road. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: O l i v i e r |
 Photo: cactusbones |
 Photo: cactusbones |
Postgraduate institution |
Barton Road Cambridge CB3 9BB +44 1223 33 5900 http://www.wolfson.cam.ac.uk/ registrar@wolfson.cam.ac.uk |
The University of Cambridge founded Wolfson College in 1965 as a postgraduate institution; it now also accepts some mature undergraduate students too. The college proclaims itself as the most cosmopolitan Cambridge college – over two-thirds of its students come from over seventy counties outside the United Kingdom – it normally has between 20 and 30 visiting scholars from abroad in residence at the college. The college has unpredictable opening hours. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: DayFit |
 Photo: Chen Zhao |
 Photo: Stan & Yen |
College with attractive lake |
Worcester Street Oxford University Campus Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 2HB +44 1865 27 8300 http://www.worc.ox.ac.uk/ |
Worcester's location is nowadays regarded as central, but it was once considered so isolated that the college was referred to as Botany Bay. The benefit of being on the edge of central Oxford is that Worcester has extensive grounds. The grounds extend to 26 acres and include a beautiful lake - unsurprisingly, they are one of the main attractions for visitors to the college. Worcester is also of considerable architectural interest, with a pleasing mix of neo-classical and medieval buildings. The latter are a reminder of the college's beginnings as a Benedictine college in the 13th century. Visits by appointment only: no groups. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: May Chan |
 Photo: miladus |
 Photo: Nitin Parmar |
Impressive Victorian walled garden centre |
Leigh Rd Boothstown, Worsley Manchester M28 2LJ +44 161 790 8792 http://www.worsleyhallgardence... whgc1@hotmail.co.uk |
Worsley Hall Garden Centre offers far more than just a horticultural shopping experience. Located in the grounds of the historic hall you can check through their wide range of plants in its impressive Victorian walled garden or enjoy the many other facilities available. Aiming to offer an entertaining day out for the whole family, the centre also offers a bustling, friendly café, large children's playground, well stocked aquarium, an aviary full of rare birds and a new, extended covered area for all weathers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Worsley Park Golf Course |
Curved roof |
Station Road York YO24 1AA +44 1904 62 1756 |
George Hudson, who was Mayor and also a Member of Parliament in the 1830s and 1840s, was mainly responsible for the development of the railway in York but it was Thomas Prosser who designed the current station and when it first opened on 25 June 1877, York Station was the centre of Britain's rail network and was, at that time, the largest station in the whole of Europe. It has a curved roof, which is 800 feet long and is supported by slender Corinthian columns. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephen Lyth |
 Photo: Rising Fan |
 Photo: Mark Ferbert |
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