Ahh, Blighty, you’ve got to love it, haven’t you?
Although we’re a nation of tea loving royalists with gravestones for teeth and a fondness for queuing while chatting about the weather, it seems you lot just can’t get enough of our British charm.
In fact, London recently left Paris in its wake to become the most popular city in the world for foreign tourists, with 2013 breaking all sorts of records to become the UK capital’s busiest ever year.
But it’s hardly surprising.
After all, we have the Queen (Morrissey, you were wrong, Her Majesty is alive and kicking), the Loch Ness monster and loads of other stuff that we Brits are, grudgingly, kinda proud of.
Away from the disparaging stereotypes of union flag waving jingoism and royal mania, though, the UK has a veritable smorgasbord of off the beaten track activities for the discerning traveller to enjoy.
Just remember to take a jacket – looks like rain later…
Get To Grips with the Capital
There’s no getting away from it, sprawling London is likely to be the first stop for many tourists– but if you’re thinking about driving, think again. Instead, leave the car in safe hands with the parking experts at Gatwick meet and greet then get set to tackle The Tube like a real Londoner.
First stop on your journey to leave the beaten track should be The Museum of Brands, Packaging, and Advertising in Notting Hill, which is a must for those seeking an alternative side to London. Also, head along to Speaker’s Corner at Hyde Park for some Sunday afternoon preaching and ranting. Quite lovely.
Search for Whales in Wales
Wales is a beautiful country and home to some of the world’s most jaw dropping castles and landmarks. In fact, at last count, there were over 600 of them, making it the castle capital of Europe – ideal if a slice of history and tales of dragons floats your boat.
Alternatively, you can take a trip to the west coast of Wales and do a bit of whale watching in Pembrokeshire’s coastal and offshore waters. Experts reckon you can spy several hundred of the mammals at a time, which makes it an experience you certainly won’t forget in a hurry.
Head for the East Neuk
A million miles away – not literally – from the hustle and bustle of London is the East Neuk of Fife, which is home to some of the most picturesque towns and villages you’ll ever set eyes on. Just imagine a postcard perfect town sprinkled with sugar and that’s what the East Neuk offers in abundance.
Visitors to the area can breathe the sea air of fishing villages like Anstruther, Elie and Pittenweem, while golf lovers can head a few miles up the road for a wander around St Andrews, where our mate Prince William went to university.
Admittedly, the above ideas are just a drop in the ocean when we consider the vast range of activities on offer – but they should help in your quest to leave the beaten track to discover an alternative Britain.
