Stonehenge

Estimated at being over 5,000 years old, Stonehenge continues fascinating scientists today who continue speculating the reasons for the site’s construction. Some suggest the structure served as a means of worshipping the sun, while others believe the location provided a place for receiving healing. The monuments perfect alignment with the summer and winter solstices remains a feature that holds spiritual significance for thousands of Pagans who travel to the location every year. Guests regularly take audio tours and visit the site’s gift shop and cafè. The area also boasts many ancient burial mounds, earthworks and other circular monuments created by early civilizations.

Stonehenge by mari

Avebury

The countryside of this community has what many believe to be the largest stone circle on the planet. The location also has a mysterious stone avenue that may have been used for navigation. Archaeologists date the circle at around 4,500 years old. A 17th century barn houses a portion of the Alexander Keiller Museum, which houses artifacts found around the circle. The Old Farmyard also has a cafè, dovecote and shop. Many also make a stop at the Avebury Manor. Keiller lived in and restored the 16th century estate while investigating the Avebury monument. The occupants welcome guests to tour the home and gardens. Avebury additionally remains famous for the many crop circles that regularly develop in the area.

Avebury by Adam Piontek

Salisbury

The medieval city lies along the banks of the River Avon and features many different destinations of interest. The most celebrated being the stunning English Gothic cathedral that lies in the heart of the community. Surrounded by eight acres of lawns and gardens, the architectural wonder boasts the original Magna Carta, the oldest functional clock and a living water font. Another destination includes the St. Thomas Church, which has a beautiful 1475 painting over the chancel arch that depicts Christ on judgement day. The community also has a famous playhouse that continues offering live entertainment in the present day.

Salisbury Cathedral by Ashley Pomeroy

Lacock

The quaint English community has a number of half-timbered stone houses, a 14th century barn, a medieval church and a 15th century inn. However, the Lacock Abbey remains the most famous landmark in the village. Established in 1232, the estate became a country manor in 1540. The chapter house, medieval cloisters, monastic rooms and sacristy remain intact. More recent renovations include a bake house, brewery, clock house and the 16th century stable courtyard. The community also boasts the Museum of Photography, which commemorates William Henry Fox Talbot. The former Abbey resident invented the negative/positive photography process.

Lacock abbey by Frerix

Castle Combe

Touted as being the prettiest village in England, Castle Combe served as the location for filming the 1966 movie Doctor Doolittle. In recent years, Stephen Spielberg used the community for filming the War Horse. The movie The Wolf Man also filmed here. The village’s main feature is the street that travels from the Market Cross to the By Brook. Here lies a series of old stone houses bearing flower boxes. A stand of mature trees surrounded the homes. There are a number of great hotels in Wiltshire such as the Old Manor Hotel near Bradford on Avon or a range of self-catering options if you prefer to travel with full independence.

Castle Combe, England, UK by Karen Roe

Whether a fan of history, archaeology, or looking to escape the noise and hectic environment of the city, Wiltshire offers much to visitors. Explore centuries old locations and enjoy a walk along one of the many country paths. Relax and have a memorable holiday.

Darren Kyle is a freelance journalist working for the travel sector. He has been interested in the history of sites such as Stonehenge since childhood; when not exploring ancient sites, he can be found reading and of course writing.

The post From Stonehenge To Salisbury, The Crown Jewels Of England appeared first on Best of European Union.

Canterbury

Canterbury is a wonderful historical place filled with relics of the past and castles. It is home to numerous World Heritage Sites. Read Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and visit nearby Bath, which has been described as one of the most enjoyable and beautiful places in all of England.

Canterbury Cathedral – Location of the first Church of England. The cathedral dates back to 597 AD and was a monastery for Benedictine monks in the 1300s.

Canterbury Cathedral, England, UK by Steve Evans

St. Augustine’s Abbey – St. Augustine’s Abbey is a World Heritage Site. It is one of the most important ruins in the United Kingdom and provides insight into church history in England.

St. Martin’s Church – St. Martin’s Church dates back to the Roman period in England’s history. It is one of the first churches established by the Romans in England.

Stratford-upon-Avon

If you are a fan of Shakespeare, then Stratford-upon-Avon should be on your list of trips to take while you are in England. Home to the Royal Shakespeare Company, you can see a performance of one of his plays or visit his birthplace. Although Stratford-upon-Avon can be full of tourists during peak seasons, if you travel to Warwickshire on a weekend trip, you may be able to avoid crowds.

Salisbury

Salisbury in Wiltshire is the home of Stonehenge. Although you will not be allowed to walk among the stones in Avebury, you can visit the historic site of the mysterious stones and walk around the area. Nearby Salisbury Cathedral was established in 1258. It is one of the earliest medieval cathedrals in England and has the tallest spire in the country.

Salisbury Cathedral, England, UK by David Merrett

Cambridge

If you are in the United Kingdom to attend school, then you should not pass up the opportunity to visit Cambridge, located north of London in Cambridgeshire. Established as one of the finest learning institutions in the world, Cambridge is easy to visit and walk through. Cambridge University was established in 1209 and serves as the cornerstone for the other colleges of the university, including King’s College, Trinity College and St. John’s College.

Stroll through the lanes of King’s College or visit the ADC Theatre, which is the oldest university theatre in England. If you are interested in World War 2 history, visit the Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial. It was established in 1943 to honor Americans who gave their lives in England while fighting the second World War.

Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is a World Heritage Site and the location of the wall that divided the frontier of England from the rest of the world during Roman occupation. It runs 73 miles from east to west and is home to numerous Roman ruins, including garrison towns and roads.

Hadrian’s Wall, England, UK by

Tintagel Castle

Located on the western coastline of Cornwall, Tintagel Castle is where King Arthur was born according to legend. Explore 13th century ruins of the castle, which was once home to the Earl of Cornwall. Visit Merlin’s Cave and find out more about the story of Tristan and Isolde and their connection to the legend of Arthur.

Rich in history and legend, attending school in the United Kingdom is the perfect opportunity to explore many of the sites that provide the foundation for much of Western History. Other places to visit include Parliament, Kew Gardens, Edinburgh Castle in Scotland and the industrial cities of Midland and York.

Sarah writes for Richmond, the American Uni in London. Richmond’s specialist courses range from international relations too their unique art history masters course. Richmond offer low student numbers and a great student experience.

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