10 Architectural Buildings in England That You Shouldn't Miss

Climb the spiral staircase to walk in the footsteps of Cathedral masons with behind-the-scenes tours of Wells Cathedral’s High Parts; the most memorable thing to do in Wells! Discover hidden spaces and chambers, explore the south transept roof space and marvel at the nave from a very different perspective! Tours run regularly throughout the week; book via the website. Terms and Conditions apply.

Westminster Abbey was initially built by Henry III in 1245 and it is one of the most important Gothic buildings of England. At first home of Benedictine monks, the coronation church since 1066 and the final resting place of 17 monarchs. It contains a treasury full of paintings, stained glass, pavements, textiles, books and various other artefacts plus the most significant collection of monumental sculptures of the UK. The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries in the Abbey's Triforium opened in June 2018. Explore over 1,000 years of history in this truly unique space, high above the Abbey floor.

The world-famous Bodleian Libraries is a must-see cultural destination in the heart of Oxford. It founded by Sir Thomas Bodley and officially opened in 1602. Since then the Bodleian libraries has grown to be the largest academic library system in the UK. In its reading rooms generations of famous scholars have studied through the ages, amongst them monarchs, Nobel Prize winners, British Prime Ministers and writers including Oscar Wilde, C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. At the site, you can explore historic spaces that you might recognise from popular films and TV series such as Harry Potter and A Discovery of Witches. We also offer free, inspiring exhibitions featuring the libraries’ rich collections, two unique gift shops and a lovely café.

Prepare to be amazed by one of the finest cathedrals in the UK, home to Britain’s tallest spire and largest cathedral close and cloisters. Our original 1215 Magna Carta is the best-preserved copy in existence and our 14th century clock is the oldest working mechanical clock in the world. We suggest 1.5 – 3 hours for your visit, but you can see most highlights in 45 minutes if you are pressed for time. You can enjoy delicious snacks and meals prepared freshly on-site in our Refectory Restaurant and browse our unique range of souvenirs in our Gift Shop. 10-minute walk from Salisbury Train Station | 20-minute drive from Stonehenge| 1.5 hours from London. Tickets must be booked online. There is no charge, but please support our work by giving a donation.

Shambles (or The Shambles as it is often referred to) is a street in the city centre of York with a long and interesting past. Dating back to Medieval times it was once the street of the butcher shops. Today the Shambles is Europe's most visited street, attracting tourists, shoppers and business clients.

Designed by Sir Charles Barry, architect of the Houses of Parliament, this is considered to be one of the finest Victorian homes still in existence, which houses fine furniture and works of art. Today, the Castle is the home of the 8th Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and is known around the world as the real home of 'Downton Abbey'.

Dating back to medieval times, this splendid Church of England cathedral features magnificent 14th- and 15th-century stained glass, stonework and elaborate tombs.

Brodsworth Hall is an outstanding survivor of a bygone era. Completed in 1863 and Set in 15 acres of award winning formal gardens, the Hall is Conserved as found and contains a fully furnished interior, every item once owned by 3 successive generations of the Thellusson family. The site is open 7 days a week- April to Sept 10am - 6pm; Oct 10am - 5pm and weekends only Nov to Mar 10am - 4pm (Servants wing only) The Hall offers Guided Taster Tours at 11am and 12pm April to Nov ( first come, first served, max 20 per tour) and is open for free flow 1pm until 5pm. (last admission 30 minutes before closing). The site also has a Tea Room serving a selection of hot food and drinks from 10am with last service30 mins before closing.

An Ancient Cathedral Full of Life & Wonder There has been a Cathedral in Lichfield for over 1300 years and its story is one bursting with history, art, culture and life. If you're looking for rich heritage, ancient artefacts, and stunning architecture then Lichfield Cathedral has it all. Lichfield Cathedral's story doesn't end with its past, it is very much alive with a vibrant programme of services, events and art projects to capture the imagination of all ages.