History and heritage
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.
A living film set, our historic sites provide the setting for period dramas, fast-paced adventures, and rom-coms alike. Here’s how to explore the places, people and events that make Britain unique.
A history and heritage showcase
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 Cardiff Castle tours reveal the locations behind Doctor Who, Sherlock and more.
Wollaton Hall
Calling all Batman fans… Welcome to ‘Wayne Manor’, where the Batman movie The Dark Knight Rises (2012) was filmed. Wollaton Hall is just as spectacular in real life, and is home to Nottingham’s Natural History Museum – alongside ghost tours, outdoor cinema and more. Did you know that The Princess Switch: Switched again (2020) was filmed here, too?
Stratford-upon-Avon
Home to Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon is brimming with history – but don’t miss its gin-tasting river cruises with Shakespeare’s Distillery, spellbinding Magic Alley and ghost-hunting tours as part of the Stratford Ghost Walk, too.
Bath Spa
Historic Bath is full of quirky things to do: from Bridgerton tours and paddleboarding trips, to twilight dips in its thermal waters at Thermae Bath Spa. For the ultimate fancy dress parade, don’t miss the Jane Austen Festival (September). Keeping with the Regency theme, take a walking tour of Bridgerton filming locations in Bath, where you’ll discover Lady Danbury’s Mansion and the Featherington abode, among other favourite spots.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle has centuries of history to explore, and epic views of Edinburgh – but for a fresh look, why not check out Edinburgh Castle’s summer concerts or all-singing, all-dancing Military Tattoo? Pick up an audio guide to be taken on a journey into the past by actors Saoirse Ronan, Bill Paterson and Outlander’s Andrew Gower.
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.
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.
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 in Britain
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 CastleTop history and heritage destinations
VisitBritain Shop
Bring British history to life with the VisitBritain Shop
The VisitBritain Shop is chock-full of inspiration for your next British break. Climb to the top of our ancient castle turrets, take a guided tour of our world-class museums or peek behind the scenes at our royal residences. Combine a trip to admire London’s Crown Jewels with a sightseeing cruise along the River Thames. Or, join an expert guide at Hadrian’s Wall for a slice of life in Roman Britain. Where will you go next?
The VisitBritain Shop is chock-full of inspiration for your next British break. Climb to the top of our ancient castle turrets, take a guided tour of our world-class museums or peek behind the scenes at our royal residences. Combine a trip to admire London’s Crown Jewels with a sightseeing cruise along the River Thames. Or, join an expert guide at Hadrian’s Wall for a slice of life in Roman Britain. Where will you go next?
