We’re immensely proud of our history, but we’re also not stuck in the past. From music festivals to fancy dress parties, Britain’s castles and monuments make incredible backdrops for our top cultural events – breathing new life into these richly storied locations. Here’s how to explore the places, people and events that make Britain unique.
A history and heritage showcase
Tower of London
One of our capital’s greatest icons, the Tower of London makes for a historic day out – but when night falls, don’t miss its 700-year-old ‘Ceremony of the Keys’, starring its magnificent military guards.
Edinburgh Castle
This royal fortress has centuries of history to explore, and epic views of Edinburgh – but for a fresh look, why not check out its summer concerts or all-singing, all-dancing Military Tattoo?
Bath Spa
Historic Bath is full of quirky things to do: from Bridgerton tours and paddleboarding trips, to twilight dips in its thermal waters. For the ultimate fancy dress parade, don’t miss the Jane Austen Festival (September). In 2025, there’ll be celebrations to mark 250 years since the iconic author’s birth.
Cardiff Castle
Feeling brave? With over 2,000 years of history under its belt, Cardiff Castle is a spine-tingling spot for ghost hunting – while its tours reveal the locations behind Doctor Who, Sherlock and more.
Stonehenge
Since 2500BC, people have flocked to Stonehenge to celebrate the winter and summer solstices. On sacred days in June and December, the mysterious circle plays host to pagan celebrations galore.
Stratford-upon-Avon
Home to Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon is brimming with history – but don’t miss its gin-tasting river cruises, spellbinding Magic Alley and ghost-hunting tours, too.
Why Britain's best for history and heritage
Even Britain’s oldest treasures have new surprises in store. Maybe you’ll go glamping in a medieval castle, catch live music at a Tudor palace, or tour Royal Windsor by horse-drawn carriage?
To bring Britain’s history and heritage to life, our monuments put on a spectacular show year-round. In summer, they host festivals, film screenings and outdoor art trails, while in winter, look out for carol concerts, Christmas markets and festive light trails.
Want to get hands-on with history? Our new tours and experiences make Britain’s past more accessible and exciting than ever. Whether you’re paddleboarding through a UNESCO-listed city, wining and dining in a luxurious stately home hotel, or learning the art of jousting at a former royal palace.
From sun ceremonies at Stonehenge to soaking in the splendour of Bath’s Roman spa, here’s where to delve into our heritage…
Where to find the best history and heritage experiences
Top history and heritage experiences
Featured things to do
Merry mayhem
Join the party! With morris dancing, folk music and colourful parades, Britain’s traditional springtime festivals date back hundreds of years – get into quirky events all across the nations.
Discover quirky traditions and events
Flourishing florals
Immerse yourself in blooming flowers and leafy landscapes at London's Kew Gardens. A UNESCO World Heritage site, discover rare plants in the Temperate House or take to the Mediterranean Garden for diverse blooms.
Step into nature at Kew Gardens
Ghostly glory
As the woodlands burst into autumn colours, this is a top time to explore our stately homes. Around Halloween (31 October), look out for spooky tours too.
Explore haunted Britain in autumn
Christmas magic
Our historic treasures put on a fabulous festive show, such as Leeds Castle’s sparkling Christmas Lights Trail. Other seasonal highlights include craft markets, glittering trees and carol concerts.
Plan your trip to Leeds Castle
