Southampton is the largest city and port on the south coast of England. Tour the historic byways of Old Town with its Medieval walls and Tudor architecture. Spend an hour or two meandering along the pathways of Royal Victoria Country Park, picturesquely set along the waterfront on the grounds of a former military hospital where Florence Nightingale once worked. Southampton's maritime past can be explored by strolling along the Town Quay with its marina and lively bars and restaurants. It was here that the Titanic departed on its fateful journey and where the Mayflower sailed for the New World.

United by seven bridges, Tyne (Newcastle) is a diverse destination. Once a shipbuilding city, it now offers vibrant nightlife, premium global restaurants, and great galleries. Visit Castle Keep, one of the UK's finest Norman keeps, or The Sage Gateshead for entertainment day and night. With more theatres per person than anywhere in the UK, it offers world-class productions for all tastes.

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is famed for its culture and traditions. In the Old Town World Heritage Site, stroll the Royal Mile past historic multi-storied houses and side streets. Visit St. Giles Cathedral, a 14th-15th century landmark known for its crown spire, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Scotland's primary royal palace and the official Scottish residence of the Queen.

Shaped from shimmering granite and kissed by the North Sea, Aberdeen blends elegance, energy, and old-world charm. Stroll streets of silvery stone that glow under Scotland's changing skies, then head to golden beaches or the bustling harbor steeped in maritime tradition. Its cultural scene offers art galleries, museums, and music venues, while cozy pubs and stylish restaurants serve fresh seafood and local whiskies.

Explore Stone Age ruins, heather-covered moors, and rugged Scottish highlands in Lerwick, capital of the Shetland Islands. With dramatic cliffs, Victorian houses, Shetland ponies, and Nordic heritage, it offers plenty to see. Visit the Shetland Museum and Archives on the waterfront for local history, then browse galleries and shops for unique art, hand-knitted sweaters, and lace. Try local beer and whisky in a pub.

Kirkwall is the largest town and capital of the Orkney Islands, off northern mainland Scotland. It is one of Scotland's most attractive, well-preserved small towns, with many 17th-18th century vernacular houses and buildings. It also has the English-speaking world's most northerly Carnegie library, opened by Andrew Carnegie and his wife in the early 20th century.

The local Irish residents lovingly refer to their city of Londonderry as "Derry." This city of more than 70,000 lies tucked into a protective harbor dug deep into the coast which crowns this massive island's great landmass. Cold waters wash into its Lough Foyle from the mighty Atlantic bringing with them many ships. Derry is a very important port city, and is Northern Ireland's second largest.

In Greenock, explore maritime heritage at the Custom House Museum and historic Victorian docks, then walk the Esplanade for River Clyde views or head into nearby countryside for hiking. Nearby Glasgow offers major museums like Kelvingrove and the Riverside Museum, plus Merchant City, live music, and landmarks such as Glasgow Cathedral and the Glasgow School of Art.

Liverpool is a city and metropolitan borough in Merseyside, in North West England, along the eastern side of the Mersey Estuary. Inhabitants of Liverpool are referred to as Liverpudlians and nicknamed "Scousers," in reference to the local meal known as 'scouse', a form of stew. In 2004, Liverpool's waterfront was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting the city's importance in the development of the world's trading system and dock technology.

Dublin, Ireland's capital and a UNESCO City of Literature founded in 1592, is the birthplace of Oscar Wilde, James Joyce and George Bernard Shaw. Lively, cosmopolitan and walkable, it blends medieval castles and cathedrals with elegant Georgian houses. Cruise the River Liffey for views of the Ha'penny Bridge and Customs House, then explore Trinity College, Temple Bar, St. Patrick's and Christ Church cathedrals, museums, and cozy pubs.

Southampton is the largest city and port on the south coast of England. Tour the historic byways of Old Town with its Medieval walls and Tudor architecture. Spend an hour or two meandering along the pathways of Royal Victoria Country Park, picturesquely set along the waterfront on the grounds of a former military hospital where Florence Nightingale once worked. Southampton's maritime past can be explored by strolling along the Town Quay with its marina and lively bars and restaurants. It was here that the Titanic departed on its fateful journey and where the Mayflower sailed for the New World.