The British Museum

London has some of the greatest museums in the world, and there are literally hundreds to choose from. In fact, a London Museums list would be about thirty pages long.

Most of the best museums in London have brilliant permanent collections. But they also have temporary exhibitions done in cooperation with other collections from around the world.

In 2011, London Museum exhibitions offer something for everyone – from children to history buffs, Victorian art lovers to dinosaur fans.

Arguably the greatest repository of human history, The British Museum has priceless treasures like the Rossetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, the Magna Carta, and more. Millions of artifacts from virtually every era are displayed in nearly 100 galleries.

Two impressive exhibits will be at the British Museum this year. Afghanistan: Crossroads of the Ancient World shows how the ancient culture has been influenced by its neighbors, China, India, Pakistan, and Iran. More than 200 objects gathered for the show are divided into four sections. The oldest dates from 2000 BC, and many survived centuries of political turmoil only by being hidden away.

The second show – Treasures of Heaven: Saints, Relics, and Devotion in Medieval Europe – brings together drawings and religious objects from Britain, Cleveland, Baltimore, and the Vatican. Ornate, bejeweled reliquaries were borrowed from churches throughout Europe.

One of London’s hidden gems, The Courtauld Gallery has one of the best collections of French Impressionist paintings outside of Paris. Their show, Life, Legend, Landscape: Victorian Drawings and Watercolours presents several never-before-displayed works from noted artists. The Pre-Raphaelites, Whistler, and Aubrey Beardsley are represented, as are Frederick Walker, J.M.W. Turner, and William Etty.

Once Upon a War Time: Classic War Stories for Children at the Imperial War Museum brings some best-loved children’s tales to life in imaginative displays. For “The Silver Sword” a room becomes the map of the children’s journey from Warsaw to Switzerland at the end of World War II. There’s a large wooden horse, a fortress, recordings from the authors, manuscripts, and a library where children can explore the books they’ve just experienced in three dimensions.

The Victoria and Albert

Photography fans shouldn’t miss London Street Photography at the Museum of London. Dating from the 19th century to the present day, this collection of photographs shows everyday London life at street level. It’s a great way to see the passage of time and the changing fashions of the capitol city.

The Natural History Museum is presenting Sexual Nature, an examination of the sex lives, reproductive habits, and seduction techniques of various members of the animal kingdom. Apparently, even museums have to drum up business. This one’s not for the kids, but Age of the Dinosaur this summer will be a boffo exploration of the Jurassic world – Velociraptors and all.

One of our favorite London Museums, the Victoria & Albert, is presenting The Cult of Beauty: The Aesthetic Movement in Britain, 1860 – 1900. The Aesthetic Movement combined art, science, and philosophy to create a holistic lifestyle. Those who love the Pre-Raphaelites can see more paintings by Rossetti, Burne-Jones, and Whistler. Crafts and furniture by William Morris, Walter Crane, and others are also on display. Fans of the genre should combine this with the show at the Courtauld Gallery.

Find food stores and antique shops in London.

Legend:
1) British Museum
2) Courtauld Gallery
3) Imperial War Museum
4) Museum of London
5) Natural History Museum
6) Victoria & Albert

View London Museum Exhibitions Map in a larger map

The British Museum Image Flickr: Bordas
The Victoria and Albert Image Flickr: publicenergy

Sissinghurst

Known as the “garden of England,” Kent is a lovely side trip from London. Some of the country’s most impressive estates, castles, and gardens are here. And Canterbury and its Cathedral are well worth visiting.

The home of Winston Churchill’s family, Chartwell was the Prime Minister’s residence from 1922 until his death, and it‘s one of the top Kent attractions. Many of the rooms are just as he left them. Others contain exhibits showcasing his uniforms, personal items, and paintings. The gardens here are lovely and there’s a restaurant where you can have lunch.

Dating from the early 16th century, Smallhythe Place was owned by the actress Ellen Terry. Today, the barn contains a theater and items from her theatrical career decorate the house.

Ightham Mote was built in 1320 as a medieval manor. It was remodeled in the 16th century, and it’s been kind of a work in progress since then. The chapel is in the Tudor style with a painted ceiling and elaborate chimneys. And the Great Hall has a Jacobean staircase leading to the original chapel. The house is surrounded by a moat, and there are walks in the surrounding woodlands. The property is now owned by the National Trust.

The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle was begun in 1270. A Tudor house was built within the walls in the 15th century, and William Waldorf Astor bought the property in 1903. He added formal gardens, a 35-acre lake, and exquisite furnishings, paintings, and decorative elements. Today, the house’s woodwork and ornamental plasterwork are some of the best examples of early 20th-century craftsmanship.

There’s a walled Rose Garden, an Italian garden with ancient and Renaissance statuary, and beautiful topiary.

One of England’s finest country houses, Penshurst Place was the home of Sir John Pulteney, the Lord Mayor of London in the 14th century. You can tour the medieval Great Hall and Staterooms, and explore the gardens, which are divided into a series of natural rooms. Shakespeare’s friend and rival, Ben Johnson, wrote one of his greatest poems – To Penshurst – about the estate.

Ightham Mote

There are several other attractions on the property, including a collection of arms and armor, a toy museum, and a playground for children.

Garden lovers and fans of Vita Sackville-West – or Virginia Wolfe, for that matter – will enjoy a visit to Sissinghurt Castle Garden. Visitors can enter the Elizabethan house to see the author’s library and study. But it’s the gardens, created by Sackville-West and her husband Harold Nicholson, that are the real draw. They’re in bloom from spring until fall, with an herb garden, cottage garden, fields of daffodils, and a white garden that peaks in June.

Find other things to do in Great Britain.

Legend:
1) Chartwell
2) Smallhythe Place
3) Ightham Mote
4) Hever Castle
5) Penshurst Place
6) Sissinghurst Castle Garden

View Things to do in Kent map in a larger map

Sissinghurst Image Flickr: wlcutler
Ightham Mote Image Flickr: exfordy

Buttermere

England’s Lake District has lots of charming pubs that serve real, traditional ales and hearty food – just the thing after a long day of hiking.

Several of the area’s pubs also offer rooms, which range from basic to down-right luxurious. If you’re interested in historic Lake District accommodation that’s inexpensive and atmospheric, pub lodging is a good choice. And in many cases, you’ll get to know some of the local gentry.

Two miles east of Windermere in Ings, the Watermill Inn is one of the best-known and most appealing lake district inns. The pub – which is located in an old, stone mill – has won numerous awards, including Cumbria Pub of the Year in 2009 and UK Beer Pub of the Year 2011.

The pub pulls 16 Real Ales and serves traditional pub meals. The River Gowan flows through the property and there’s a sunny beer garden facing it. There are eight guest rooms upstairs, each with private bath. Dogs are welcome too.

The Bridge Hotel in Buttermere is on a site that’s been occupied for more than 1,000 years. The location near Buttermere Fells is great for walking. The 21 standard, superior, and four-poster rooms have telephones, but no TVs or radios. Internet access is available in the Residents Lounge.

Several apartments with kitchens and balconies or patios are also available. These have good views of Buttermere Round, Haystack, and the surrounding gardens.

The menu in the dining room changes nightly, and more than 60 wines are available, in addition to the good selection of ales.

A 17th-century traditional inn, Tower Bank Arms is in the village of Near Sawrey, next to Hill Top, the home of Beatrix Potter. The Tower Bank Arms is mentioned in The Tales of Jemima Puddleduck.

The inn is a National Trust property and the original slate floor, stove, and wood beams have been preserved. The pub serves local beers and organic wines, and when the weather’s fine, you can sit in the garden with views of the woodlands and village.

Wasdale Head Inn

Four rooms with private bathrooms, TVs, and tea and coffee-making supplies are available. Guests can also take advantage of the inn’s two fishing permits. Dogs may stay with their owners free of charge.

Nestled beneath England’s tallest mountains, Wasdale Head Inn offers classic Lake District accommodation. It has ten rooms in the main building and seven apartments in an old, converted barn. All have been recently refurbished.

Ritson’s Bar is a gathering place for hikers and raconteurs – the original landlord was known as the “World’s Biggest Liar.” And in summer, the patrons head out into the garden. The restaurant specializes in Herdwick lamb and mutton.

The location is quite remote, so you’ll enjoy plenty of peace and quiet during your stay.

If you’re in the town of Keswick, the Dog & Gun is an excellent pub known for its Hungarian Goulash and local ales. As befits the name, dogs are most welcome.

Find Lake District hotels.

Buttermere Image Flickr: Leshaines123
Wasdale Head Inn Image Flickr: AndrewH.uk

Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum

With beautiful gardens, Regency-style mansions, and a charming main street, Cheltenham is one of the most attractive towns in the Cotswolds. It’s been a destination since 1788 when George III came to enjoy the benefits of the natural mineral springs here.

Today, it’s a nice spot for a getaway, with several attractions worth visiting. Henry VIII’s sixth wife, Catherine Parr, is buried at Royal Sudeley Castle and Gardens. Dating from the 15th century, the castle has a fine art collection. The Cheltenham Racecourse hosts one of Britain’s most prestigious horse races each spring.

The hotels in Cheltenham Town Centre provide easy access to shopping, dining, the race track, Pittville Pump Rooms, and the Promenade.

Cheltenham Townhouse and Apartments offers 20 nicely furnished rooms and suites in a Regency Townhouse in the heart of town. Rooms have DVD players, Internet access, and modern bathrooms. Breakfasts – which are prepared with fresh, local produce – are a specialty here. There’s plenty of free parking.

Built in 1850, Beaumont House has received five stars from AA and the Gold Award from Enjoy England. Its 16 rooms are each individually decorated, but all have Internet access and flat-screen TVs. Accommodations are available for singles, couples, and even families. The two suites have whirlpool baths. Beaumont House is surrounded by a pretty garden and there’s a sun room with an honor bar, coffee drinks, and cookies. Beaumont House is one of the most celebrated Cheltenham hotels.

On a pretty, leafy square, Clarence Court Hotel is located in a Regency home once owned by the Duke of Wellington. Rooms are furnished with luxury bedding and toiletries, and WiFi is complimentary. Joules Café serves continental cuisine pizzas made with imported ingredients and cooked in their pizza oven. Breakfast is served each morning.

Surrounded by Georgian and Victorian buildings, Cotswold Grange has 24 rooms with period details, including high ceilings, beautiful plasterwork. The 20-foot tall windows in the dining room of the hotel compliment the modern European fare. Service is cordial and efficient.

Cheltenham Racetrack

The most modern Cheltenham hotel, the Holiday Inn Express is across from the Brewery Leisure Complex. With 132 rooms, it’s also the largest hotel in Cheltenham. Rooms have power showers, flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, and coffee and tea-making supplies. There’s a bar and lounge, and guests may use the facilities at Fitness First and receive discounts at restaurants in the Brewery.

Perched at the top of the Promenade, Mercure Queen’s Hotel originally dates from 1835. It’s a popular spot for a cocktail in the Gold Cup Bar or afternoon tea. Guests of the Queen’s Hotel may use the pool, fitness center, tennis, and racquetball courts at the Cheltenham Ladies College Sports Centre. The Napier Restaurant & Conservatory is an AA award winner.

Dating from 1584, The Greenway is an Elizabethan country house hotel set in nationally recognized gardens. The Queen Mother made this her base when she came for Gold Cup Week. The 11 rooms in the main house were recently refurbished and they’re furnished with antiques, old paintings, and beautiful carpets. The rooms in the Coach House look out onto the gardens. There’s a restaurant, a lounge, and a bar. The Greenway is the best country house hotel in Cheltenham.

Find more hotels in Great Britain.

Legend:
1) Cheltenham Townhouse & Apartments
2) Beaumont House
3) Clarence Court Hotel
4) Cotswold Grange
5) Holiday Inn Express Cheltenham
6) Mercure Queen’s Hotel Cheltenham
7) The Greenway

View Hotels in Cheltenham Town Centre Map in a larger map

Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum Image Flickr: ell brown
Cheltenham Racetrack Image Flickr: MissChampers

Aira Force

England’s lovely Lake District is a great place to come and commune with nature. You’ll follow in the footsteps of Keats, Shelley, Wordsworth, Coleridge, and Tennyson who appreciated – and in many case celebrated – the beauty of the area.

Today, most of the 35-square-mile area is Lake District National Park, so development is kept to a minimum. And there are countless opportunities for hiking, sailing, and just enjoying the views.

The most popular activity here is enjoying the scenery, either on foot or from a boat. But there are several Lake District attractions worth checking out.

Built between 1898 and 1990, Blackwell is a must-do for those who love the Arts and Crafts movement. The house showcases plasterwork, stained glass, carved paneling, and wrought iron from the turn of the century. There’s a shop selling crafts and a tearoom.

Aquariums are usually found near the sea, but the Lakes Aquarium in Windermere provides an in-depth look at life within a lake. Visitors can walk through a tunnel and watch diving ducks, frogs, and fish overhead. You can reach the aquarium by boat.

There are several Wordsworth attractions in the Lake District. Located in Cockermouth, Wordsworth House was his birthplace and boyhood home. Dove Cottage in Grasmere, where the writer lived from 1799 to 1808, was originally a 17th-century inn. It’s been preserved as it was when it was Wordsworth’s home. Admission to the house includes entrance to the Museum and Art Gallery.

Those who enjoy the Peter Rabbit stories should visit Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s home outside Hawkshead. Timed tickets for this popular attraction are available in advance. In Bowness-on-Windermere, The World of Beatrix Potter has three-dimensional recreations of scenes from the author’s stories. It’s a good spot for families. The Beatrix Potter Gallery in Hawkshead exhibits her watercolors and drawings in her husband’s old office.

Dove Cottage

Artist and art historian John Ruskin made his home on Coniston Water. His 18th–century house – Brantwood – contains many of his drawings and personal effects, plus a nice collection of J.M.W Turner drawings. Set on 250 acres, the property is reached by ferry. Ruskin laid out the pretty gardens here.

You can see more of Ruskin’s paintings in the gallery at Kendal’s Abbott Hall. Housed in a Palladian-style mansion that dates from 1759, the gallery also has portraits by Romney, old photos of the area, and revolving exhibits.

Located on Ullswater, Aira Force is one of the loveliest Lake District attractions. The park has a rock garden, an arboretum, and a beautiful waterfall that eventually pours into Ullswater. Just above Aira Force, Gowbarrow Park is where Wordsworth saw the daffodils that inspired “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud.”

For the best herb garden in the region, visit Acorn Bank, east of Penrith. Many of the 250 herbs grown here are used to prepare the dishes in the tea room.

Find Lake District luxury hotels.

Legend:
1) Blackwell
2) Lake Aquarium
3) Wordsworth House and Garden
4) Dove Cottage
5) Hill Top
6) The World of Beatrix Potter
7) Brantwood
8) Aira Force
9) Acorn Bank

View Lake District Attractions Map in a larger map

Aira Force Image Flickr: estoril
Dove Cottage Image Flickr: Menage a Moi

Nemesis Inferno at Thorpe Park

Paris has Eurodisney, but London has Thorpe Park.  Located just twenty miles from Central London, it has more than 30 roller coasters and extreme rides.  When Colossus opened in 2002, it held the world-record for most coaster loops.  Since then, Thorpe Park has added dozens of adrenalin attractions for thrill seekers.

The park is easily reached by rail, and there are plenty of good hotels nearby.

The town of Staines has a pedestrianized high street with Marks & Spenser, Debenhams, and other top retailers.  And there are plenty of specialty shops and restaurants in the town.

It’s about five minutes by car from Thorpe Park, and there are a couple of good hotels there.   The Mercure Thames Lodge is located right on the River Thames and the better rooms have river views.  There’s a restaurant and terrace bar overlooking the river, and it’s a short stroll to town.  Guests of the hotel may use the facilities at a local health club.

Dating from the 16th century, the Anne Boleyn Hotel is under new management and was recently renovated.  It’s also convenient to town, and the 45 rooms have four-poster beds and satellite TV.  Two restaurants and a bar are on site.

The town of Chertsey also has several good hotels near Thorpe Park.  With rooms that comfortably sleep four, the Bridge Hotel is a good choice for families.  The recently refurbished rooms have flat-screen TVs, updated bathrooms, in-room safes, and free WiFi access.  The Boathouse Bar and Restaurant next door has nice views of the Thames and its tributary.   On sunny days, you can dine or enjoy a drink outside.  It’s about three miles from the park.

Housed in a late 19th-century half-timbered building, the Crown Hotel has 49 rooms with free WiFi and traditional décor.  The pub serves good food, and there’s free parking.

The smallest Thorpe Park hotel with just four rooms, The Hamiltons is a cozy boutique inn with amenities like Egyptian cotton sheets, flat-screen TVs, and luxury toiletries.  The restaurant has an extensive wine list, and lighter fare is available in the bar.

Located in neighboring Weybridge, Brooklands Hotel & Spa has 120 nicely-decorated rooms with rain showers, a good Italian bistro, and a spa offering a variety of health and beauty treatments.

Also in Weybridge, Oatlands Park Hotel is a great choice for those looking for a refined weekend away.  The country house is set on ten pretty acres of parkland looking out over Broadwater Lake.  There are 144 guest rooms, a restaurant with a carvery, an outdoor terrace for summer dining, golf, tennis, and croquet.

The most luxurious hotel near Thorpe Park is Foxhills in Ottershaw.  On a 400-acre estate, the 19th-century county house has 70 beautifully furnished rooms.  There golf, tennis, a health club, three swimming pools, three restaurants, and three bars.

Legend:
1) Mercure Thames Lodge
2) Anne Boleyn Hotel
3) The Bridge Hotel
4) The Crown
5) The Hamiltons
6) Brooklands Hotel & Spa
7) Oatland Park Hotel
8) Foxhills

View Thorpe Park Hotel Map in a larger map

Nemesis Inferno at Thorpe Park Image Flickr: legoyodax

St. Pancras Station

There are nine major London train stations and your destination will determine which one you use. Be sure to confirm which station your train leaves from — you’re sure to miss it if you go to the wrong one. London Transport has a Stationlink bus that connects the stations and you can often take the Underground from one to another.

Most of the stations were build around the middle of the 19th century, and they’re beautiful architectural marvels of glass and steal. Today, they offer a full range of amenities including shops, restaurants, storage lockers, and other services.

Major London train stations.

Built in 1864, Charing Cross provides service to cities southeast of London, including Canterbury and Dover, as well as English Channel crossing ports. The station connects to London Bridge and Waterloo.

Euston provides service to 50 million passengers a year traveling to northwest England and Scotland. The Station was built in 1837.

Heathrow is located at the airport and provides service to Paddington Station via the Heathrow Express.

A short walk from St. Pancras station, King’s Cross serves York and Edinburgh. Part of King’s Cross was used as Platform 9-¾ in the Harry Potter movie.

Eurail Selectpass

If you’re headed to Northern Germany, the Netherlands, or Scandinavia, you’ll travel from Liverpool Street. With 123 million passengers a year, it’s the third busiest London train station.

The clock at Waterloo Station

One of the most historic trains stations in London, Paddington was the original terminus of the Great Western Railway. Although the station has been extensively modernized, many original details have been preserved. Paddington is also a hub of four Underground lines.

St. Pancras was completely overhauled to provide Eurostar service to Paris and Brussels. Today, it’s one of the most modern and appealing railway stations in the world with dozens of restaurants, the longest Champagne bar in Europe, and stores like Marks and Spencer. In fact, the whole area has become gentrified with new hotels and cafes.

Not far from Buckingham Palace, Victoria Station provides service to Sussex, Kent, Brighton, and Gatwick Airport via the Gatwick Express. The second-busiest station in London, it’s the western departure point of the Venice Simplon Orient Express.

Waterloo Station provided Eurostar service until 2007, when it moved to St. Pancras. It’s not only London’s busiest station, it’s also the largest in the country. Waterloo provides service to the south of England, and is best known for the Victory Arch built to honor Britain’s war dead.

Read more about travel by train in Great Britain.

High quality up-to-date maps of London from maps.com the online map store

Legend:
1) Charing Cross Station
2) Euston Station
3) Heathrow Station
4) King’s Cross Station
5) Liverpool Street Station
6) Paddington Station
7) St. Pancras Station
8) Victoria Station
9) Waterloo Station

View London train station map in a larger map

St. Pancras Station Image Flickr: chakchouka
The clock at Waterloo Station Image Flickr: C. G. P. Grey

Lake Windermere

The Lake District of England is a great spot for a relaxing week or weekend communing with nature. The scenery is smashing, the food is first-rate, and the Lake District luxury hotels specialize in truly pampering their guests.

Located on 20 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds three miles east of Windermere, Gilpin Lodge has 14 rooms and 6 suites in two modern annexes to a 1901 country house. The most inviting are the Garden Suites, which have outdoor hot tubs. Dining is a big part of the experience here – which is good since it’s a drive to other restaurants – and there are four dining rooms to choose from. All are 3 Rosette winners. You can enjoy a cocktail in the stylish lounge or on the terrace. Spa treatments and massages are available in your room. And guest may use the facilities at the local health club.

Just a mile from the Windermere train station, Miller Howe Hotel and Restaurant has beautiful views of the lake from the garden terrace, and balcony rooms. The 14 rooms in the Edwardian country house are beautifully decorated in the British Arts and Crafts style. But if you plan to stay a while, book the Gardener’s Cottage which has it’s own garden and kitchen. The restaurant is quite good and serves lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea.

As the name suggests, Moss Grove Organic Hotel is as environmentally responsible as it is luxurious. The Victorian house – which is in the heart of Grassmere – was restored using natural products such as sheep’s wool for insulation, recycled timbers, and clay paint. And the restaurant serves organic, local, and fair trade foods. The décor is a charming combination of old and new, with rustic material side-by-side with flat-screen TVs and other modern amenities. The huge, marble bathrooms are state of the art and some rooms have private hot tubs or balconies. Moss Grove is the hippest Lake District luxury hotel.

Ambleside

The Samling is the top choice of celebrities because of its seclusion. It’s located on a rise a few hundred feet above Lake Windermere and surrounded by 67 rolling acres of greenery. There are just 11 rooms – five in cottages and six in the 18th-century stone house where Wordsworth paid his rent. Service is first-rate and discrete, but not stuffy. In fact, the ambience here is quite relaxed considering the prices. Take a stroll through the grounds to admire the sculpture or go trout fishing at the lake. The Michelin-starred restaurant is one of the best in the area, with a wine list to match.

The first Relais & Chateaux hotel in Britain, Sharrow Bay Country House Hotel is on 12 acres of Lake Ullswater waterfront. The views of the lake from here are the envy of the other Lake District hotels. The nine rooms in the Victorian main house are very formal – exactly what you’d expect from a luxury manor house. The rooms in the Edwardian Gatehouse and Bank House and less so. The restaurant, which has won a Michelin star every year in recent memory, is absolutely top notch, and service is impeccable.

Legend:
1) Gilpin Lodge
2) Miller Howe
3) Moss Grove Organic Hotel
4) The Samling
5) Sharrow Bay Country House Hotel

View Lake District Luxury Hotels Map in a larger map

Find more Lake District hotels.

Lake Windermere Image Flickr:AEJHarrison
Ambleside Image Flickr: foshie

Harrods Food Halls

Although food isn’t as inextricably linked with London as it is with Paris or Rome, visitors to London should make a point of visiting at least one of London’s marvelous gourmet food stores. Prices can be high, but you can still find thoughtful gifts for friends, or treats to remind you of your visit after you return home.

If you’re on a budget and pressed for time, the food halls at Marks & Spenser department stores have a huge selection of products, lots of affordable choices, and they’re conveniently located throughout the city. Tesco, the grocery store chain that owns Fresh & Easy in the United States, is another good source for basics.

Harrods is the indisputable grande dame of London food stores. And even if you’re not shopping for food or wine, you should add it to your must see list.

Visiting Harrods Food Halls.

In 1849, Charles Henry Harrod opened a grocery store in the Knightsbridge neighborhood of London. The store expanded, but was destroyed by fire in 1883. When Harrods continued to fulfill orders promptly following the fire, their reputation for unrivaled service was sealed, a tradition that continues to this day.

Richard Burbidge took over the business, expanded again, and added many innovations, including London’s first escalator. The building we know as Harrods today was designed by Stephens and Munt and opened in 1905. The Food Halls were decorated with mosaics and freezes by W. J, Neatby, and they make up one of the best gourmet food stores in the world.

There are dozens of departments, and virtually nothing you can’t find here. On the ground floor, you’ll find charcuterie, cheese, fruits and vegetables, baked goods, candy, tea and coffee, meat, fish, and poultry. The wine shop is in the basement.

What really sets Harrods apart is the fabulous displays. Fresh foods are arranged in such an artful fashion that they look like perfect still lives. For the ultimate foodie paradise, come during the holidays.

If you’re not hungry when you arrive, you will be before long. Not to worry. In addition to all the prepared foods, there are 13 restaurants in the Food Halls, including a dim sum bar, a rotisserie, a Champagne and oyster bar, and Laduree — one of the top patisseries in Paris. The pizzeria here was the first in London to have a wood-fired oven. Don’t be surprised if the Neapolitan chef bursts into an aria while he tosses the dough.

Depending on your disposition, you may only need to see the British Museum and the Tower of London once. But you can’t help but return to Harrods every time you’re in London.

Other top London food stores.

Founded in 1707, Fortnum & Mason has a long history of providing food to the British royal family and gentry. They supplied provisions to British officers during the Napoleonic Wars, and were frequent caterers to the court of Queen Victoria.

In celebration of Fortnum & Mason’s 300th birthday, in 2007 the store received a $40 million renovation. Today, Fortnum’s is the place for luxury picnic hampers. These can range in price from $70 to thousands of dollars. But you can also buy a nice selection of teas, or popular items like smoked salmon, Stilton, or quail eggs. Marmelade, preserves, biscuits, curds, and chocolates also make great gifts.

Prepared foods at Harrods

The St. James Restaurant at Fortnum & Mason’s is one of the best spots in London for afternoon tea. Several menus are available. The Classic and Estate Afternoon teas include finger sandwiches, pasties, and savory canapés. The menus are seasonal, and the pastries are decorated with a nod to local events and holidays. The High Tea is a full meal with an entrée like Welsh Rarebit or fish pie. Other types of tea service are available in the other four restaurants at Fortnum’s.

One of London’s more fashionable department stores, Harvey Nichols — known as Harvey Nicks to the girls on AbFab — has been in business since 1813. Located on the fifth store of their Knightsbridge store, Harvey Nichols Foodmarket contains 600 exclusive, private-label food products, in addition to gourmet items from all over the world.

Also on the fifth floor are the Harvey Nichols restaurant — scheduled to reopen September 1, 2010 — a new Champagne bar inspired by the Art Nouveau designs of Emile Galle, a café, and roof terrace. A Strawberry Afternoon Tea is served daily and a portion of the price benefits Breast Cancer Care. Cooking classes are also given in the exhibition kitchen.

Find other great food stores in Europe here.

Harrods Food Halls Image Flickr: malte.mathiszig
Prepared foods at Harrods Image Flickr: Wolfiewolf

Pocket watches

London has delightful antiques shops that will appeal to both serious collectors and casual shoppers alike. With dozens of dealers all in one place, the antique malls are especially convenient, and there are several great ones to choose from. Plus, they’re usually open during the week when most of the markets are closed.

If you’re interested in high-end furnishings and fine art, there are top-notch antique dealers around St. James, Bond Street — where you’ll find the Fine Art Society and Waterhouse and Dodd — King’s Road, and Kensington Church Street — home to Haslam and Whiteway and Rafferty and Walwyn.

Gray’s Antique Mall opened in 1977 in a 19th-century terracotta building in the West End. Today, there are more than 200 antique dealers selling everything from Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Art Deco jewelry to Hawaiian shirts. You won’t find many bargains here, but there’s an amazing selection of high-quality collectibles.

Vintage Mode in Grays Mews sells gowns, handbags, shoes, and accessories. And there are shops that specialize in Bakelite, antique dolls, timepieces, medals, perfume bottles, pewter, old photographs, gems, advertising, and compacts.

Gray’s is a must-visit for travelers who appreciate beautiful, old things.

Opened by Bernie Gray in 1976, Alfie’s Antiques Market occupies the old Art Deco Jordan’s Department Store on the east end of Church Street. There are four floors of stalls here and a rooftop restaurant where you can have breakfast, lunch, or a glass of wine. Alfie’s has a little bit of everything, but it’s especially strong for vintage fashions, 20th-century decorative arts, and fine, antique jewelry and watches.

The dealers here are extremely knowledgeable, and many have been tenants since the 1970s. If you don’t find what you’re looking for here, there are more than a dozen antique shops on Church Street.

In Islington, Camden Passage is best on Wednesdays and Saturdays, when the stalls are filled with dealers. There are antique stores in arcades on both sides of Islington High Street and Camden Passage. Circa 1900 has beautiful Art Nouveau jewelry, Christina Tattum has antique boxes, Gordon Gridley has fine art and decorative objects, David Webb has classic jukeboxes, and Finbar MacDonnel has old prints.

Old toys

With 200 dealers on two floors, Admiral Vernon Antiques Market is the largest arcade off the Portobello Road Market. It’s packed on Saturdays, but if you want to miss the crowds, most of the shops are open during the week. You’ll find armor, antique guns, cameras, jewelry, silver, glass, clocks, and toys. There’s a café on the lower level.

In a beautiful building on the King’s Road, Antiquarius is one of the most attractive antique malls in London. There are over 80 dealers selling top-quality glassware, jewelry, furniture, clothing, decorative arts, and timepieces. In business since the 1960s, Antiquarius is an enjoyable destination.

If you’re looking for reclaimed architectural items like chimneys, fireplaces, doors, columns, paneling, flooring, lighting, or stained glass windows, the London Architectural Salvage and Supply Company (LASSCO) is your best bet. Most of the things here are expensive, but they are truly one of a kind.

With nearly 30 dealers specializing in antique silver, London Silver Vaults has the largest collection in the world. In addition to jewelry, there are boxes, pipes, perfume bottles, card holders, letter openers, clocks, tea services, and more. The building, which dates from 1876, was originally the Chancery Lane Safe Deposit.

Francophiles will enjoy The French House which sells French furniture from the Renaissance to the Napoleonic era. The owners travel to France once a month, so there’s always something new. Doors, fountains, fireplaces, and garden benches, and old lighting are also available.

Lovers of antiques should set aside some free time in London to search for treasures in these great spots.

Read about the best antique shops in Barcelona here.

1) Gray’s Antiques Market
2) Alfie’s Antiques Market
3) Camden Passage
4) Admiral Vernon Antiques Market
5) Antiquarius
6) London Architectural Salvage and Supply Co,
7) London Silver Vaults
8) The French House

View London’s best antique shops. in a larger map

Pocket watches Image Flickr: ?serendipity
Old toys Image Flickr: karen horton

Victoria Station

Recently, we posted an article about how to travel by train in Great Britain. It’s a relaxing, affordable way to see the United Kingdom. And the scenery is great. The British rail network is extensive, serving virtually every corner of the British Isles. So you can go virtually everywhere by train.

London has nine major train stations, including Victoria, King’s Cross, Waterloo, Paddington, and St. Pancras. And before you travel by rail, it’s helpful to know what to expect at the train station. See the map and legend to get the lay of the land.

Victoria Station is the second busiest rail station in London with 115 million passengers a year. That’s nearly twice the traffic at Heathrow. Trains to Kent, Surry, and Sussex leave from here. And the Gatwick Airport Express terminates here. There’s also an Underground or Tube station in the basement.

Rail Europe specials and promotions

One of the world’s most glamorous trains, the Venice Simplon Orient Express, departs from Platform 2.

The station first opened in 1860. At that time, it was actually two separate stations – the western side, owned by the Brighton Line had six platforms and ten tracks, and the Chatham side had nine tracks.

When the stations were remodeled in 1908, the Brighton side was completed in red brick and the Chatham side was done in the Edwardian style in white stone. In 1924, the wall was removed and the two terminals were merged.

The Victoria Place shopping center was added in the 1980s, and today, there are two dozen retail outlets, including W.H. Smith, Boots, Carrington Brown, Swatch, and the Tie Rack. If you’re hungry, you can choose from more than forty food outlets – everything from Krispy Kreme doughnuts to sushi.

It’s helpful to know which platform your train leaves from before you arrive at the station. National Rail Enquiries has live departure information posted at http://realtime.nationalrail.co.uk/ldb/summary.aspx?T=VIC.

Victoria Station Image Flickr: OliverN5

Read more Great Britain travel articles here.

Virgin Cross Country train

You’ll be able to drink in the scenery without worrying whether you’re on the wrong side of the road, and you’ll arrive at your destination ready to go.

Most British trains are modern and comfortable, and with more than 2,500 rail stations, there’s train service to virtually everyplace you would want to visit. The busiest routes have several departures a day. For the most part, rail stations are centrally located, so you usually arrive in the heart of town. The stations are also transportation hubs, so if you need to catch a bus or a taxi, there will likely be one right out front.

There are more than 20 private rail companies in Britain, but National Rail serves as a clearinghouse that coordinates fares, schedules, and ticketing. Their web site has fares and schedules for all the rail lines.

On most trains, two classes of service are available — standard and first class. Seating in standard class is like you’d find on an airline, with a table in between the seats. First class is a little roomier and more comfortable, and refreshments are often included in the fare. But since most trips are relatively short, there’s little reason to pay for First Class.

Victoria Station

You don’t need to make reservations in advance, though it’s a good idea during peak travel times or if you want a sleeper car. You can buy food on board — at the restaurant car on intercity trains, in the buffet car, or from the food trolley on shorter journeys.

There’s space for your luggage above and between the seats and at the ends of the individual cars. And since porters are a thing of the past, you’ll probably have to handle it yourself. So don’t carry more than you can manage. Although there are some overnight trains in Britain, since the distances covered are not great, it makes more sense to travel during daylight hours.

Rail fares vary quite a bit and can be affordable or expensive depending on when you book and when you travel. Most online ticket brokers charge the same fare, so where you buy your ticket isn’t as important as when. Like airlines, trains now offer nonrefundable fares that are less expensive. And mid-day travel usually costs less than trains during peak travel times.

Special Deals from Rail Europe

Three types of fares are most common: Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance fares can save you as much as 75%, but they’re very restrictive.

Eurail Saver Pass

If you’re taking more than a couple of trips by train, a Rail Pass can be a real money saver. There are several kinds available.

Britrail Passes can save you time and money.

British Rail class train

With a Britrail England Flexi Pass, you have unlimited travel on any scheduled train in England for four, eight, or twelve days during a one- or two-month period. The Britrail GB Flexi Pass adds trains in Scotland and Wales to the equation.

As the name implies, the Britrail England Consecutive Pass lets you travel on four, eight, fifteen, or twenty-two consecutive days during a one-month period. The GB Consecutive Pass adds Scotland and Wales.

The Britrail England Consecutive Pass allows you access to England’s railways over a selected number of consecutive days. The England Consecutive Pass is available for 4-, 8-, 15-, 22-day and 1-month periods.

Youth, Senior, Family, and Party passes are available. And you’ll need to buy your Britrail Pass before you leave home. They’re not sold it Britain. You can activate it at any rail station. Make reservations in advance or just show up when you want to travel. Scotland and Wales also offer country-specific passes.

Find fares, schedules, and more information at http://www.nationalrail.co.uk. Or learn more about Britrail passes here.

You can read more Great Britain travel planning tips here.

Virgin Cross Country train Image Flickr: mattbuck4950
Victoria Station Image Flickr: wsuph001
British Rail class train Image Flickr: mattbuck4950

The Liver Building

There was a Gustav Klimt show at the Tate Liverpool that we wanted to see. And we were surprised that there was a Tate in Liverpool at all. But there were lots of things about Liverpool that surprised us — pleasantly. It was all dolled up for the European Capital of Culture festivities. It shared the title that year with Stavanger, Norway. But all in all, it was one of the most appealing places we visited that summer.

Liverpool has a lot to offer for art lovers, Beatles fans — who can visit the Cavern Club and the Beatles Story — and anyone interested in Maritime history. In fact, the Liverpool waterfront is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It also has great shopping in the new Liverpool One Complex.

Hotels in Liverpool.

The Hilton Liverpool is about a two-minute walk from the Albert Docks. One advantage it has over the Atlantic Tower is the 24-hour fitness center. Guests also have access to the Merseyside Watersports Centre where you can canoe, sail, or windsurf. The 215 rooms have terrific beds, minibars, and marble baths with Crabtree & Evelyn toiletries. The rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, many with views of the docks, the river, or the Liver Building. And there’s a restaurant, a bar, and 24-hour room service. The Hilton is one of the most polished hotels in Liverpool.

Located next to the Liver Building and close to the Albert Docks, the Atlantic Tower recently underwent a multimillion dollar renovation. The 225 spacious rooms now include flat-screen LCD TVs, wireless Internet access, and work areas. Many of the room have nice views of the River Mersey, as does the Vista Bar and Restaurant. You can also enjoy a cocktail outside at the Vue Lounge. It’s a member of the Thistle group. If you’re looking for a modern, business hotel in Liverpool, the Atlantic Tower is a good choice.

Beatles fans will enjoy the Hard Day’s Night Hotel, which is next to the famed Cavern Club. It’s in a Grade II listed building that dates from 1884. Portraits of the Fab Four, as well as artwork by Paul and Ringo, decorate the rooms and public areas. There’s a Yellow Submarine juke box in the lobby. And sheet music hangs from the ceilings. The 110 rooms have up-to-the-minute amenities like interactive LCD TVs and free WiFi. Deluxe rooms have balconies with views of the Liverpool skyline. Blake’s Restaurant and Bar Four are pleasant spots for a meal or a drink.

Albert Docks

1) Hilton Liverpool
2) Atlantic Tower Hotel
3) Hard Days Night Hotel
4) Hope Street Hotel
5) Liver Building

View Hotels in Liverpool, England in a larger map

Read more Great Britain travel planning ideas here.

The Liver Building image Flickr: fast eddie 42
Albert Docks image Flickr: firmatography

With its shimmering lakes, green valleys, and towering peaks, England’s Lake District is one of the loveliest parts of the country. And some of the finest English manor houses are now hotels in the Lake District.

There are several towns in the Lake District that you can use as a base.

Lake Windermere and neighboring Ambleside are the most popular – and crowded. Lake Ullswater and Bassenthwaite are a little quieter.

Wherever you stay, you’ll be able to visit the sights – Wordsworth’s House, Beatrix Potter’s home and gallery, and the Ruskin Museum. And you’ll have countless opportunities to go hiking, boating, and golfing. But be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to do nothing but relax and enjoy the scenery.

Ambleside hotels.

A short walk from both Lake Windermere and the town of Ambleside, Rothay Manor occupies a Regency-style country house that dates from 1825. The manor was originally the summer home of a Liverpudlian cotton merchant, and today, the 19 rooms have many of the original period details. Rooms are beautifully furnished, and the public areas have lots of antiques, over-stuffed chairs, and fresh flowers. Just what you’d expect in a country house. Request a room with a balcony overlooking the lake. The restaurant is top-nocth, and it has a wine list to match. Guests have privileges at a nearby health club. The manor has been run by the same family more than 40 years.

About 2-1/2 miles from Ambleside, the Drunken Duck Inn is an old coaching inn that’s a pleasant place to eat, drink, or sleep. The 16 rooms are bright and modern, and many have nice views. They surround a gravel courtyard and gardens. The garden room has beamed ceilings, a wood stove, and a small patio. The well-regarded restaurant has a menu that includes sea bass and scallops and butternut squash mille-feuille – reservations are a must. The bar serves ale fresh from the Barnsgate Brewery. And guests at the Duck can use the pool, steam room, and exercise equipment at the Langdale Country Club.

Windermere hotels.

Located on 67 gorgeous acres overlooking Lake Windermere, The Samling is a favorite of the rich and famous. Celebrities like Victoria and David Beckham aren’t uncommon. But the Samling is much less stuffy than many country house hotels. Despite the luxurious surroundings, the ambience is more lodgy than stodgy. The late 18th-century stone house is where Wordsworth used to pay his rent. Today, there are 11 rooms, 6 in the main house, and 5 in cottages on the property. Each room is unique, but all are beautifully decorated. Some rooms are two- or three-story. The restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star, and the wine cellar is one of the best in the region. The staff are happy to arrange virtually any activity from paragliding to trout fishing. The Samling is one of the best Lake District hotels.

From the outside, Langdale Chase Hotel is an old stone Victorian mansion with lots of interesting architectural details. Inside, it’s filled with antiques, old paintings, oak-paneled rooms, ornate fireplaces and a grand staircase. It’s been a hotel since 1930, and it’s played a Victorian manor house in several BBC shows. Most of the 27 rooms feature magnificent views of the lake. In addition to accommodations in the main house, there are five rooms in an old cottage, and a highly coveted room above the lake-side boathouse. The view of the lake and pretty gardens from the terrace are wonderful. The hotel has a pier and you can take canoeing, kayaking, sailing, or windsurfing lessons. There’s also a restaurant and bar on the property.

Lord Lonsdale’s former hunting lodge, Holbeck Ghyll is one of the most expensive hotels in the Lake District. If you can afford the premium price, you’re not likely to be disappointed. There are a variety of accommodations – 15 rooms in the 19th-century main house, 6 in the lodge, which was built in 1998, and 4 rooms in a recently restored barn. Most of the rooms in the lodge have splendid lake views and patios or balconies. Four have kitchenettes. The Miss Potter Suite has a private terrace with hot tub. There are also several detached cottages. Active travelers will appreciate the gym, tennis court, spa, putting green, and croquet lawn. The restaurant has a Michelin star and the wine list has won many awards.

Lake Ullswater hotels.

One of the finest hotels in the Lake District, Sharrow Bay Country House Hotel provides its lucky guests with terrific service, luxurious accommodation, and wonderful food. Oh, yes, and gorgeous views. It was the first member of the Relais & Cheateaux group in Britain. Originally a private, Victorian home on 12 acres fronting Lake Ullswater, it was purchased in 1948 and painstakingly restored. Today, there are 26 rooms – nine in the main house, and 17 in the Edwardian Gatehouse and cottages. The restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star 14 years in a row. Sharrow Bay is so close to Lake Ullswater, you can almost reach out and touch it.

On the shores of Lake Ullswater, Rampsbeck Country House Hotel offers very good value for money in an area that can be pretty expensive. The 18th-century house is on 18 acres of parkland and gardens with ¼ mile of lake frontage. Most of the rooms have been recently updated with LCD TVs, Bose radios, and WiFi Internet access. Mini-deluxe and deluxe rooms have separate sitting areas. The restaurant makes the most of fresh, local produce. And when the weather’s fine, the lounge opens onto the terrace.

Bassenthwaite hotels.

Once an 18th-century ale house, The Pheasant is an old coaching inn that just oozes ambience. It’s about midway between Cockermouth and Keswick at the northern tip of Bassenthwaite Lake on a quiet country road. Most of the 15 nicely updated rooms overlook the adjoining 60-acre forest. The restaurant is much better that you’d expect. And with its wood-paneled walls and warming fireplace, the cozy pub is still popular with locals. Guest have privileges at the local spa, five minutes away. The Pheasant is an affordable and charming Lake District hotel.

See our recommended hotels in Keswick here.

Keswick, Great Britain

Few places are more scenic.  And the lakes, valleys and mountains provide lots of opportunities for hiking, boating, biking, golfing, and fishing.

An old market town that was chartered in 1276, Keswick makes a great base for exploring the National Park.  It’s on the shore of Derwentwater, one of the loveliest of the lakes.

Keswick hotels offer a wide range of experiences, from staying in a stately manor house to enjoy the homey hospitality of a charming bed and breakfast.

Set in a 400-acre deer park on Lake Bassenthwaite, Armathwaite Hall Country House and Spa has 43 rooms, including one with its own roof terrace. The house dates from the 16th century and curling up by the fire in the huge, wood-paneled main hall is the perfect way to top off a long walk by the lake.   It’s one of the most expensive hotels in Keswick, but it’s a splurge you’ll remember.

The recently opened spa has ten treatment rooms, a swimming pool, an indoor waterfall, a hydrotherapy zone, and a tranquility room that overlooks the gardens and outdoor hot tub.   The Armathwaite offers countless distractions — from skeet shooting to tooling around the estate in a Landrover Defender or a Honda quad bike.  An expert fisherman gives lessons and you can go for a picnic lunch in a vintage Bentley or Rolls Royce.

Keswick Countryside

The Lodore Falls Hotel was built 200 years ago using the traditional Lakeland slate.  It has one of the best locations of all the Lake District hotels.  There are views of Derwentwater from the main rooms and dining room, and it’s a short stroll to the lake and Lodore Falls, which tumble more than 100 feet down a rocky ravine.

Derwent Water

Derwent Lodge, overlooking Skiddaw mountain and Cat Bells, is a three-star, country house hotel about 1.5 miles from Keswick.  The Georgian manor house was built in 1780, and the 1.7-acre grounds front the lake.  The eight rooms here were recently redone and include free broadband Internet access and flat-screen TVs.  Light meals and dinner are served in the lounge, but the terrace overlooking the lake is more enjoyable.  Water sports rentals are available at the marina adjoining the property.  If you want easy lake access, Derwent Lodge is the best Kewsick accommodation.  Reservations can be made at Derwent Lodge Hotel.

The Grange Country Guest house is one of the most delightful bed and breakfasts in Keswick. The Victorian house, which dates from 1850, was originally a private home, and the owners have worked to retain many of the original features.  There are ten rooms, each with private bath, and most of the rooms look out over the fells.  You can have a drink in the bar or on the terrace.  Breakfast includes locally farmed bacon, sausage, free-range eggs, fruit, and baked goods.   Wifi access and free parking are two other pluses.  For more information, visit Grange Keswick.

The Edwardene is another nice bed and breakfast that’s a five-minute walk to Keswick’s market square.  It’s close to restaurant, pubs, and shopping, but away from the noise.  The innkeepers here get high marks for helpfulness and filling breakfasts, and the 11 cozy rooms are nicely decorated and provide good value for money.  For reservations or information, go to Edwardene Hotel.

Read more Great Britain travel articles here.

Keswick image Flickr photo: Mike__Lawrence
Keswick Field image Flickr photo: Katherine_Davis
Derwent Water image Flickr photo: A Brief Moment in Time