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.

Fowey (pronounced Foy) in Cornwall has a rich seafaring history dating to the 14th century and remains one of England's busiest ports. An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it and the surrounding countryside are easy to walk. Popular Hall Walk circles the estuary. In town, stroll the Esplanade, visit St. Fimbarrus Church, and see St. Catherine's Castle, built under Henry VIII to defend the harbor. Late-1300s blockhouses stand by the harbor, where a chain once blocked unwanted ships.

Ringaskiddy, once a quiet fishing village in County Cork, is now a busy cruise port for visits to Cobh, Cork, and Kinsale. In Cobh's Heritage Center, learn about Annie Moore, the first emigrant processed at Ellis Island in 1892. Explore walkable Cork: Parliament Bridge, Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, and the Cork Courthouse, then relax at a Castle Street café. In Kinsale, a former naval base, try Dublin Bay prawns, Galway Bay oysters, or Irish stew.

Holyhead stands on the far side of Anglesey, which is technically an island separated from Wales by the narrow Menai Straits. The distant mountains provide an ever-present backdrop, enticing the visitor to investigate their beauty. The rural charm of North Wales is juxtaposed with some unexpected features, for, perhaps to the casual visitor's surprise, this is an area that has participated in some of the great moments of our history.

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

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.

Belfast lies snuggled into the rugged coast of Northern Ireland where the River Lagan flows to the sea. This Northern Ireland capital saw its earliest settlement in the early Middle Ages. At that time, a substantial stone fortress punctuated the horizon. Today, world travelers are eager to view her physical beauty and discover her renewed tranquility. Residents enjoy performances at the Grand Opera House, shop at trendy stores, and visit pubs lining The Golden Mile.

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.

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.

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.

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.