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 catch the Castle of Light illuminations (Nov & Dec), or check out its summer concerts?
Bath Spa
Historic Bath is full of quirky things to do: from Bridgerton tours and paddleboarding trips, to twilight dips in its Roman spa. For the ultimate fancy dress parade, don’t miss the Jane Austen Festival (Sept).
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 film 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 21 June and December, it aligns perfectly with the rising sun – and hosts pagan celebrations galore.
Stratford-upon-Avon
Home to Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stratford is brimming with history – but don’t miss its gin-tasting river cruises and the spellbinding Magic Alley, or a ghost-hunting tour of Tudor World.
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…
Top history and heritage experiences
Top history and heritage destinations
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 – such as Padstow’s 'Obby 'Oss Festival.
Saddle up for the 'Obby 'Oss Festival
Fabled festivals
Live events bring Britain’s castles to life this season – with foodie pop-ups, outdoor theatre shows, falconry displays and much more. Why not step back in time at Hever Castle’s Jousting Festival?
See what’s on at Hever Castle
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 – such as Fonmon Castle’s annual Ghost Hunt.
Get your tickets to Fonmon Castle
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
