United Kingdom Gardens & parks, Historical, Island & reefs + Nature pictures

• Europe
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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?

Famed for the panoramic views from its soaring clock tower, this ancient religious landmark is also home to a series of striking medieval graves. 

Visit this ancient and beautiful cathedral to attend a service or just admire the wonderful architecture.

Explore the crumbling remains and towering gatehouse of this once mighty 14th-century castle, which was an integral part of the English Civil War. 

Build your courage for the many carnival rides on the People’s Pier and explore the sights backing onto this beach.

With an opulence worthy of the former monarchs buried inside, this 15th-century chapel is the go-to spot for royal ceremonies and weddings.

Part of a 16th-century estate with ties to the English Civil War, this park has a range of grasslands, meadows and gardens straddling the River Thames.

Build your courage for the many carnival rides on the People’s Pier and explore the sights backing onto this beach.

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

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

Wander between campus buildings and architectural landmarks, visit museums, catch a theater show and admire outdoor art displays at this city center university. 

Big Ben, Nelson’s Column, the Tower of London and Abbey Road; every corner in London has a tale to tell.

One of London’s largest parks was once a royal hunting ground and is now a popular place to enjoy pretty flower displays, live music and superb city views.

Watch battle re-enactments among evocative medieval ruins and learn about the role this fort played in the English Civil War.

This picturesque English town is an ideal base for exploring Lake Windermere and the spectacular Lake District National Park.

Wander through the picturesque grounds of Wordsworth’s family home and imagine how the views of lakes inspired him to write.

Appreciate the cultural transformation this waterfront city has undergone, with the World War II-damaged center now home to fashionable restaurants and maritime attractions.

Walk the streets of this charming town and soak up its history, architecture and culture before heading out into the nearby countryside.

Engage with London’s politics in this innovative building that is shaped like a slanted egg made almost entirely of glass.

From its architecture to its industry and sporting events, this is a city of fascinating contrasts just an hour by train from London. 

From its architecture to its industry and sporting events, this is a city of fascinating contrasts just an hour by train from London.