In 2018, driven by a desire to create new memories rather than restrict existing experiences, I embarked on a year-long journey to explore unfamiliar corners of the UK, a country I’ve called home my entire life yet surprisingly hadn’t fully explored. This self-imposed challenge involved visiting a new UK destination every month throughout 2019. Leveraging the benefits of a railcard and the enthusiastic company of friends, I embarked on this enriching adventure, uncovering the very reasons why the UK attracts millions of tourists annually.
My journey began in January with a visit to Windsor, a town frequently glimpsed on television during royal events but never experienced firsthand. A brisk winter walk along the Long Walk, leading to the majestic Windsor Castle, revealed the often-overlooked beauty of this royal residence. Exploring the castle, including a glimpse of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress and St. George’s Chapel, offered a fascinating insight into royal history. The charm of Windsor extended beyond the castle walls, with quaint independent shops and a memorable roast dinner at The Two Brewers, a cozy 18th-century pub.
February found me in Oxford, a city renowned for its prestigious university and historical significance. A visit to Christ Church college, instantly recognizable as Hogwarts’ Great Hall from the Harry Potter films, was a highlight. The Ashmolean Museum and the iconic Bodleian Library with its Bridge of Sighs further enriched the day. A surprisingly warm February day concluded with a treat at the popular local ice cream parlor, George & Danver. March brought me closer to home, exploring a previously unvisited corner of London: the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew. This World Heritage Site, with its vast collection of over 40,000 plant species housed in magnificent Victorian greenhouses, provided a welcome escape from the urban bustle.
April saw me embracing the UK’s coastal beauty with a trip to Rye, a charming medieval town in East Sussex. A stroll down the picturesque Mermaid Street, a visit to the historic Lamb House, once home to Henry James, and a traditional fish and chip lunch at The Ship Inn, a pub dating back to 1592, offered a glimpse into the town’s rich history. The day concluded with a refreshing walk along the sandy shores of Camber Sands. The arrival of summer in May prompted a visit to Margate, a vibrant seaside town in Kent. Cycling along the coast, exploring the Turner Contemporary art gallery, and indulging in sugary doughnuts by the promenade were complemented by visits to the trendy Old Town and the Dreamland amusement park.
June took me north to Sheffield, a city I hadn’t properly explored despite its proximity to my childhood home. A surprisingly affordable day out included brunch at Tamper Sellers Wheel, a visit to the Graves Art Gallery, and a stroll through the serene Sheffield Botanical Gardens. July found me basking in a heatwave in Brighton, another iconic seaside town. The day was filled with classic seaside fun, including dodgems at Brighton Palace Pier, browsing the antique shops of The Lanes, and enjoying a burger and pint at the East Street Tap. August brought the vibrant atmosphere of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, an annual celebration of arts and culture. A long train journey was rewarded with immersive art experiences, stand-up comedy, live poetry, and a captivating circus performance.
September continued the northern exploration with a trip to Manchester. Retail therapy at the Arndale shopping centre and bar-hopping in the Northern Quarter, culminating at the rock and punk haven MOJO, were followed by a restorative brunch at the Mackie Mayor food hall. October brought a closer-to-home adventure in Epping Forest, a sprawling ancient woodland easily accessible by London’s Tube network. Climbing trees, picnicking in clearings, and admiring the ancient Grimston’s Oak offered a tranquil escape from city life. November took me further afield to Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city. The city’s unexpected beauty and vibrant atmosphere captivated me, with highlights including the University of Glasgow Cloisters, Kelvingrove Park, the bustling Buchanan Street, and the trendy Finnieston district. Panoramic city views from The Lighthouse and a final morning pancake breakfast at Stack & Still rounded off the trip.
December concluded my year of exploration with a visit to the Isle of Man, a unique island nestled between England and Ireland. Exploring the ruins of Peel Castle, marveling at the Laxey Wheel (the world’s largest working waterwheel), and ascending Snaefell mountain, with its potential views of six kingdoms, provided a fitting end to the year. This year-long journey across the UK proved to be a transformative experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diverse beauty and rich history of my home country. It highlighted the often-overlooked treasures that lie within easy reach, challenging the allure of exotic destinations and reaffirming the value of exploring what’s on our doorstep. The experience was further enriched by the recommendations of travel experts, offering insights into family-friendly city breaks across the UK, emphasizing walkable cities with a blend of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and free activities. These suggested itineraries, encompassing cities like Edinburgh, Cardiff, Newcastle/Gateshead, Birmingham, and York, provided valuable inspiration for future explorations, showcasing the UK’s diverse offerings for families seeking affordable and engaging travel experiences. This personal journey underscored the importance of seeking adventure and creating memories close to home, proving that exploration and discovery don’t always require long-haul flights and exotic locales.
