Travel @ AsiaOne

Britain with a twist

Think you know Britain like the back of your hand? Check out this top 5 must-dos for an unforgettable experience

Mon, Apr 07, 2008
AsiaOne

Seen the world's most famous wax figurines at Madame Tussauds? Check. Been on the iconic London Eye to catch the cosmopolitan view of London? Check. Armed yourself with the latest collection of Burberry and Paul Smith? Check.

If you think that just about sums up an itinerary in Britain, you might be wrong.

Besides tourist attractions like the Big Ben and the London Bridge, there are many more ways to enjoy Britain than you know!

So, here is a list of five Britain's unconventional ‘must-dos’ that will leave you wanting more.

1. Live the fairytale in a castle

Britain has the highest concentration of castles of anywhere in the world, so it's no wonder it's known as the 'Land of Castles'. As you wander from room to room in the castles, you will be captured by its pure essence of luxury, making you feel just like royalty.

Even though some castles have aged quite a bit over the years, the resplendent ambience proves that its air of class still maintains.

Turn your wildest dreams into reality and stay overnight in a castle. In the Dalhousie Castle - only a mere 20-minute drive from the city - you can live like a king.

You can choose to stay in the cosy and wood-rich castle rooms, or opt for themed suites like the Mary Queen of Scots suite that gives off that quixotic and dreamy vibe with a 4-poster Queen-sized bed. Not to mention, it overlooks the South Esk river and countryside. Now, how about that for romantic?

Dalhousie Castle also provides rejuvenating spas for the stressed souls.

If you are looking for more than an overnight stay in a castle, look out for romantic balloon rides at Leeds Castle in Kent or cooking classes at Swinton Park for gourmet lovers.


2. Be Agent 007 for the day

Only a fictional character created in 1952, Agent 007 has not failed to charm the ladies, and neither has he failed to become every man's ideal. Live the intriguing Bond life with a daytrip in London.

An agent would not be as suave if he did not have his weapon of choice. So, head on down to the Imperial War Museum's Secret War exhibition and uncover the secret operations of the M15 and M16.

Remember the speedboat chase down River Thames in 'Tomorrow Never Dies'? Now, you can experience the very same adrenaline rush as James Bond!

If you cannot handle the rush of adrenaline, you can always go for the laid back boat trips where you can catch London's most famous sights. At the same time, you can choose to have your lunch while cruising down the river with the magnificent view of the Tower of London behind you.

And to live like Bond, you definitely cannot miss out on the glamour element. Satisfy your tastebuds at Hush for a tantalising meal. Or you can primp yourself up and head down to Turnbull and Asser for your fix of champagne and martini.


3. The world is a stage

"All the world's a stage, and all the men and women are merely players." As quoted by the famous William Shakespeare, theatre is part of the everyday life in Britain. After all, it is the home of Shakespeare.

Brace yourself for a night under the stars alit with a backdrop of a velvet black sky, as the Minack Theatre in Cornwall brings theatre productions to you in a unique way. Experience the drama and emotions of the 17 different plays introduced every summer.

Theatre does not stop there for it is everywhere in Britain! You can find them from the streets and on barges, to the extravagant opera houses.

Get involved and learn what it takes to be a backstage crew at the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. The revealing guided tour will walk you through the ‘dos and don'ts’ of backstage work.


4. Wear your heart on your fashionable sleeve

Home to designers like Vivienne Westwood and Ted Baker, Britain is undoubtedly one of the world's fashion capitals.

And indeed, you can expect to be immersed in the latest fashion mise en scene. With an array of posh designers to choose from, you will be spoilt for choice!

If designer labels are too pricey, you can try main department stores like Liberty and high street label shops like Topshop and Miss Selfridge for cheaper alternatives.

For quirky finds that are one-off exclusives, head on down to Portobello Market, the world's largest antiques market. Or you can visit Spitalfields, where young and talented designers gather to sell off their pieces. You just might be in possession of a piece from the next big name in fashion.


5. Living the game

To work off those calories you have been gaining throughout your trip, there is definitely no excuse not to when you are in Britain.

Manchester United fanatics will not want to miss out on the Theatre of Dreams. Go into the changing rooms to take in a whiff, bask in the glory of past players in the pitch of Old Trafford or even stand at Sir Alex Ferguson's spot in the dug out.

Tennis players fret not. Other than being home to the Old Trafford, Britain also hosts the Wimbledon tournament every year. Get your hands on those hot-selling tickets to watch star players like Roger Federer, while satisfying your tastebuds with its savoury strawberries and cream along with a glass of refreshing lemonade.

Britain is no stranger to golf since world-famous courses like St Andrews and Royal Birkdale can be found there. At St Andrews, golfers can aspire to be the pros and re-enact shots made by them.

Once you are done with your work out, reward yourself and take a trip to Manchester and shop for the latest sports apparel. Names like Fred Perry, Adidas, Lacoste and David Beckham, can be found in Manchester, another shopping paradise besides London.

- Jayne Tham

Ideas adapted from Visit Britain

Fly with British Airways, and visit two popular cities – pairing London with Edinburg or Manchester – for the price of one, at only S$998.

Promotion valid for bookings between March 24 and May 31, 2008 via ba.com and remains valid for travel until October 31, 2008. Airfare quoted excludes airport taxes and other surcharges.

 
 
 
Copyright ©2007 Singapore Press Holdings Ltd. Co. Regn. No. 198402868E. All rights reserved.
Privacy Statement Conditions of Access Advertise