United Kingdom Castles & palaces, Mountain + People pictures

• Europe
• World

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, nestled between extinct volcanoes and hills, is almost fairytale in appearance, with its medieval buildings in the Old Town and the wide streets and spacious homes Georgian New Town, and the spectacular castle looking down from its cliff. Edinburgh was declared a World Heritage Site in 1995, which only begs the question: why did it take so long?

Hike amid stunning natural scenery in one of Scotland’s most famous glens, famous for its beauty and infamous for its history.

Beloved by hikers, this unusual landscape is dotted with fractured rock formations, shimmering lochs and a hidden grassy plateau.

Tour a fascinating collection of Scottish islands to marvel at dramatic landscapes, explore ancient historical sites and see memorable wildlife.

Enjoy the tranquil setting of this spacious sandy haven flanked by a miniature railway and an aquarium with Humboldt penguins.

Explore dozens of elegant rooms, meander through manicured Victorian gardens and watch falcon flying demonstrations at this castle complex.

Explore dozens of elegant rooms, meander through manicured Victorian gardens and watch falcon flying demonstrations at this castle complex.

Hike amid stunning natural scenery in one of Scotland’s most famous glens, famous for its beauty and infamous for its history.

Beloved by hikers, this unusual landscape is dotted with fractured rock formations, shimmering lochs and a hidden grassy plateau.

From mist-shrouded mountain peaks to plunging sea cliffs and moss-carpeted valleys, this windswept Scottish island is a place of wild, rugged beauty.

A setting in one of Shakespeare’s iconic tragedies, this crenellated castle sits on a hill overlooking the River Ness.

Gaze up at the iconic limestone cliffs rising from the North Sea in this lively town with a history of explorers.

Whitby’s hilltop church is known for its coastal views, varied architectural influences and sacred history, as well as the famous vampire who stalked the cemetery.

Visit the tower from which the city takes its name to hear wicked tales of frightening ghouls and life in the dungeon.

Bring your board to one of the best surfing spots in the country and attempt to ride the crashing Atlantic waves.

Medieval architecture, galleries, cultural centers, picturesque parks and a lively waterfront make this one of the most attractive cities in southwest England.

Stroll along this spectacular bay and admire its turquoise waters, white sand and intriguing rock formations, including a precariously balanced stone.

Windermere is the perfect lakeside destination all year round. With the water’s shores so close, the scenery is always fantastic and the leisure activities plentiful. The village of Windermere itself has plenty of shops and nice restaurants to enjoy where you can eat outside and enjoy the fantastic scenery. Several local viewpoints offer visitors panoramic views of both the lake and the more distant Pennines.

Discover the creatures that live deep in the world’s oceans and learn about the importance of conservation at the largest aquarium in the U.K.