Spilling the Tea on Britain

You think you know Britain? The first thing that probably comes to mind when you think of Britain are red buses, Big Ben and tea…cups and cups of tea. Britain has a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in our vibrant cities, along the stunning coast and through glorious countryside. Wherever you go in Britain, there’s always more to explore whether you are looking for high adrenaline breaks, relaxing vistas, trails, adventures, culture, foodie or city breaks, all served up with great flavours and a warm welcome.

Escape to Britain’s wildest coastlines

Discover the untamed beauty of Britain's coastlines with a myriad of exciting activities that will leave you spellbound by the charms of the British coast all year round. Whether sea-kayaking along the rugged Scottish shores, conquering six-foot waves on the beautiful Welsh beaches or enjoying a relaxing coastal spa break, the British coast has unique charm and endless possibilities for adventures and new horizons.

Travel to Strumble Head in Pembrokeshire to embark on a coastal walk with spectacular views of the sea and a chance to encounter dolphins, puffins or grey seals. Conquer the waves with a world class surfing session on the renowned Gower Peninsula further down the coast or head to Rest Bay Beach in Porthcawl for miles of golden sand backed by low cliffs where you can explore the water by kayak, Stand Up Paddle Board or bodyboard with Porthcawl Surf.

Yorkshire boasts award winning cuisine using the best of local produce, including Michelin recommended Number 20 in Saltburn-by-the-Sea, offering a delectable experience for food connoisseurs. Yorkshire’s coast offers immersive adventures rooted in literary history. Take in the hauntingly beautiful landscapes around the iconic Whitby Abbey perched atop the cliffs that inspired writers including Bram Stoker, the famed author of “Dracula”. Further up the coast, spectacular castles include Bamburgh castle featured in films including Indiana Jones, Transformers, Macbeth, Robin of Sherwood, Elizabeth and the BFG and Alnwick Castle that had a starring role in Harry Potter, Robin Hood, Elizabeth and Downton Abbey.

Explore the south coast and uncover hidden gems when strolling from the lively town of Brighton, past buzzing beaches towards the serene Seaford on the King Charles III England Coast Path. Follow along the coast to Eastbourne and look out for the iconic Seven Sisters cliffs offering picturesque coastal views along the way.

Stroll along England’s north west coast to the calming shores of Crosby Beach just north of Liverpool and discover more than a few iconic cast-iron mates along the sands thanks to a striking installation of Another Place sculptures by Antony Gormley. Journeying northwards into Scotland, you'll encounter the magnificent Lady's Tower at Ruby Bay, offering panoramic coastal views. For those seeking the ultimate rugged coastal experience, journey to the remote Achmelvich in the Scottish Highlands where the bay offers an unspoiled haven for nature enthusiasts to spot seals and otters, and further along the coast, adventure seekers can choose from water sports including kayaking and paddleboarding.

Embark on a countryside adventure

Beyond the bustling cities, Britain has countless green spaces waiting to be explored with 15 national parks and 46 areas of outstanding natural beauty. Whether you're into monster hunting, zipline thrills, or leisurely strolls, there is no limit to Britain's adventures.

An abundance of activities can be found in the Highlands of Scotland. Hunt for the famous Nessie on a one-hour speedboat tour with Cruise Loch Ness or explore the surrounding landscapes on the Loch Ness 360-degree trail on foot, bike or on horseback. Venture to the Glen Tanar valley in the eastern part of the Cairngorms National Park where fluffy Highland cows graze and explore the pine forest along the banks of the river Dee. The park is a natural playground offering adventures including bungee jumping against iconic backdrops with Highland Fling Bungee Jump, stargazing in the Glenlivet area or tackling one of the many mountain biking routes. Journey westward to the picturesque village of Glencoe which is nestled on the banks of Loch Leven surrounded by towering mountains and a perfect base for an action-packed trip.

Heading south to the Lake District which is England’s largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the adventure options include wild swimming, canyoning, caving and sailing. Get guided through a rocky mountain river on a canyoning expedition or test your skills at axe throwing along the shores of Windermere.

Another must-visit National Park is the North York Moors. Learn to fly with The Yorkshire Gliding Club offering a unique perspective on the park’s beauty. For a more relaxed adventure, hop aboard the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and relive the golden age of steam travel or explore the inspiring architecture and world-renowned collections at Castle Howard.

Travel to the Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) in North Wales where towering peaks and breath-taking valleys await. Witness the sunrise from the summit of Wales’s highest mountain, Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), experience an adrenaline rush at the world’s fastest zip wire, Velocity, reaching speeds of up to 125 miles per hour or bounce in the unique setting of a disused mine at Bounce Below.

Discover Britain’s Vibrant Cities

See things differently in Britain’s most vibrant cities, offering tasty, cultural and adrenaline pumping experiences to delight the senses. Capture great images and create braggable stories.

Britain is a cultural powerhouse, overflowing with film locations waiting to be discovered on a set-jetting trip. Locations such as Notting Hill (for Notting Hill!), Richmond for Ted Lasso, Bath for Bridgerton and Queen Charlotte and Edinburgh for Harry Potter. There is a wealth of cultural hot spots to explore in the cities including stunning galleries, contemporary museums, opera and street art. Explore the street art trail in Leeds, a graffiti tour of the hip neighbourhood of Digbeth in Birmingham or make your own mark with a graffiti workshop at Leake Street Arches in London. Explore the capital’s vast contemporary art galleries including the Tate Modern  or enjoy a modern take on historical classics at London’s home of opera in Covent Garden. Visitors can wonder at the extraordinary art incorporated into Cardiff Castle’s vibrant interiors and the majesty of Edinburgh Castle overlooking the Royal Mile. For a different vibe, visit Saffron Walden’s quaint colourful houses and pop into the nearby Audley End which was featured in The Crown, or take a wine tour and tasting at Saffron Grange vineyard.

Discover a melting pot of flavours and cuisines in the cities including street food, fine dining, chef’s tables and fun bars. Head to the rooftops at Oh Me Oh My for cocktails coupled with views of Liverpool’s iconic Liver Building. Stop off at the Ampersand Hotel for a scientific take on afternoon tea in the heart of the museum quarter of London’s Kensington, or enjoy a gastronomic sightseeing tour through the city with a difference on a double decker bus with Bustronome. Explore the foodie capital of the north in Leeds to relish a food tour with a passionate and engaging guide, or pop into Afternoon Tea at Issho a contemporary Japanese rooftop restaurant. Head over to the colourful Kirkgate market to take your pick of street food cuisine from around the world using the best of local produce. Go west to Cardiff to join a tour to uncover the booming culinary scene and meet the chefs adding modern twists to classic Welsh dishes. From veggie to vegan, explore Britain’s eclectic foodie cities and find a taste for every palate.

Our cities have a range of adventures and trails to enjoy for those wanting to get out and about. See the spectacle of the Balloon Festival in Bristol and take flight, brave the Dare Skywalk Edge experience up to the roof of Tottenham’s stadium for views over the pitch and the city and then abseil down to terra firma. Take to the water and kayak through the centre of Birmingham leading into the countryside. Head down south and try kayaking along the Thames to Tower Bridge or take a canal boat trip to picture perfect Little Venice in London. 

-ENDS-

Notes to editors:

Please check out our latest campaign - Spilling the Tea on Great Britain for more experiences and dynamic destinations to ‘See Things Differently’.

For the most up to date guide or details of what’s new in Britain check out the VisitBritain Media Centre.

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