The Ridgeway Path

The journey begins in Wiltshire and ends in Buckinghamshire, spanning a total of 85.5 miles. it is rated as an easy hike, the average completion time between five and seven days. Along the trail can be found a neolithic tomb built sometime around 2800 BCE. If this may feel a bit too ancient for some, one may also choose to experience the Red Lion, located in Wandover where Oliver Cromwell frequented in the 17th century.

Historic monuments are not all this trail has to offer. The path winds through some of the most idyllic scenery imaginable; verdant green hills rolling gently, every so often punctuated by quaint country houses. When passing through the Chiltern Hills, vast varieties of trees and plants can be found along with a striking plethora of orchids.

Photo by djim

The Thames Path

As the name implies, this walk begins at the source of the river and ends at its estuary. It stretches approximately 180 miles and takes between twelve to fourteen days to complete depending on one´s desire. Some of the main attractions include the Hampton Court Palace and Sutton Courtenay, the site where George Orwell is interred.

In addition to awe-inspiring views of the natural landscape, one also has the privilege to stroll through the heart of Britain´s fascinating capital city. Also keep in mind that the rather dubious reputation of the Thames as being one of the most polluted rivers in the United Kindgom no longer implies. Rather, many species of fish and waterfowl can be seen, including salmon. With finding local accommodations never a problem, this route proves to be one of the most popular for tourists and natives alike.

Hadrian´s Wall

This path is likely one of the most famous due to its historic nature. Built during the times of Roman Occupation, to follow the entire course of this ancient monument takes approximately one week. Numerous forts still stand, including one at Chesters and another at Segendunum which has now been converted into a museum.

Notwithstanding the unforgettable panoramic views of this fortification, this track effectively represents a true journey from east to west across England. Large sections of this wall still exist quite intact though it must be noted that some of the journey can require proper map reading skills and the correct type of walking shoes.

Photo by quisnovus

The Pennine Way

If a separation from civilisation is what one desires, this path is certain to satisfy. The entire length is nearly 300 miles and can prove to be one of the most challenging journeys in all of the United Kingdom.

As this trek is considered to be one of the most technically demanding, its achievement is as equally rewarding to the hearty outdoorsman or woman. Camping equipment is considered mandatory along with a compass and experience in dealing with terrain in which the path may occasionally disappear. Although there are numerous accommodations along the route, there are other stretches at the very beginning and end where none exist, therefore leaving the traveler to rely on wits and experience alone.

These are but a handful examples of the diverse terrain and cultural experiences which the United Kingdom has to offer. Both novice and experienced trekkers can enjoy these options and countless others. With a simple online search and planning, these excursions can be an unforgettable experience.

Whether your a professional ambler or just enjoy a brisk walk in the english country air, you can’t really go wrong with a pair of decent thermal walking socks from Sealskinz, who specialise in waterproof clothing.

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Photo by DAVID ILIFF. License: CC-BY-SA 3.0

1. The Landscapes

The number one reason why people love the UK is because of its natural landscape. The UK has a diverse landscape consisting of mountains, forests, deserts, turquoise lakes, winding rivers and flower-rich fields. Here, you can enjoy sunbathing by the beach or taking a hiking trip deep into the mountains to explore the untouched natural environment there. Of course if city landscapes is more your scene then the UK has got that covered too, can you say London?

2. The People

Another thing that makes the UK stand out as one of the top tourist hotspots is its people. British people are very friendly and helpful. Although British people hold many traditional values, they are very open and friendly to visitors.

3. The Food

You will never run short of tasty dishes in the UK. England, Being a multinational community, has many food outlets and fine dining restaurants that serve traditional dishes from all countries around the world. Some famous cuisines originating from the UK include Scottish cuisine, Northern Irish cuisine, Welsh cuisine and Anglo-Indian cuisine not to mention British cuisine. You’ll be sure to find something that tickles your tastebuds during your time in the UK.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Benkid77

4. The Things See and Do

The Thames river is one of the hottest tourist attractions in the country. Couples may enjoy romantic evenings dining and overlooking the beautiful, serene Thames river from their cruise ships. Buckingham Palace and the House of Parliament are two other must-see places of interest for tourists visiting England. If you want to have an overview of London from above, you should visit the London Tower. This tower is also home to the London Tower Bridge, a very famous hanging bridge in England.

5. The Accommodation

When talking about hotels and accommodation, the UK is among the finest in the world. No matter what type of accommodation you are looking for, you will find what you need in this country. Ranging from self-catering villas, rented apartments, small-budget inns to 5 star hotels, accommodation is not a problem in the UK, and you’ll be sure to find somewhere to stay that’s suitable to your budget and needs.

Getaway Trekking & Adventures offers a range of Kokoda Track adventures.

The post 5 Reasons You’ll Love the United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo by zamek-hradec.cz

Slavic people settled at this place already at the end of 8th century. In the 11th century Slavic settlement turned into a royal castle of the Přemyslids. After next 200 years it was rebuilt by Czech King Premysl Otakar II. into the palatial castle protected by a massive fortification. In 1531 the castle burned down, but despite major repairs still holds its medieval appearance.

The total reconstruction was done in the late 16th century by Kaspar Pruskovský from Pruskov, who in 1585 inherited this property. At the castle was established ornamental garden with a breeding pond Pilar.

In February 1796 a renaissance castle was badly damaged by fire. A year later started its reconstruction, which not only brought substantial changes to exteriors, but also a fundamental change in the surroundings. The chateau was rebuilt into the form that has survived with minor changes until today. One of the first guests in the renovated castle was composer Ludwig van Beethoven, who stayed here between 1806 – 1811. A little later the castle even welcomed Niccolò Paganini and in 1846 and 1848 also hosted the pianist and composer Franz Liszt.

The second half of the 19th century brought another neo-Gothic transformation. The most important building of that time was an economic extension of the Red Castle dating from 1874 – 1895 and the White Tower.

The castle Hradec nad Moravicí became in 2002 a national cultural monument, and is an important center of social events.

For further information visit official site of Chateau Hradec nad Moravicí (only in Czech ).

View Hradec nad Moravicí – very attractive castle complex in the Czech Republic in a larger map

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