Get out & about
DISCOVER THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS IN BRISTOL
Bristol is a city of opposites. One minute you could be wandering through quaint cobbled streets feeling as though you’ve stepped back in time, and the next you’re surrounded by vibrant bars and restaurants, fantastic shopping centres and cutting edge cultural attractions that would rival any modern city. There seems to be a surprise around every corner, which is exactly what gives this fun-filled city its unique appeal.
Perfect for a weekend day trip, why not jump on the train and discover all that Bristol has to offer? To help you get even more out of your visit, we’ve found the ultimate places to check out while you’re there.
The Lowdown
Exciting Eats
Bristol is famous for its food scene, with a wide range of award-winning restaurants and elegant eateries to be found across the city. But it’s not all Michelin-stars and gourmet grub – there are plenty of affordable places to grab a bite all over town. For a dining experience that’s ‘out of this world’, head to funky pizza joint Planet Pizza, which serves delicious food and has a great central location.
Hit the Shops
Holding a well-deserved place in the top 10 of UK shopping destinations, you really can shop ‘til you drop on a trip to Bristol. Fashionistas will be spoilt for choice by the vast array of retail centres, from the 300-odd stores of Broadmead and The Mall Bristol, to Cabot Circus – the ultimate shopping experience in the South West.
Night on the Town
The people of Bristol certainly know how to party – it is a student town after all! As darkness falls, make your way to the Harbourside, Park Street or Whiteladies Road – packed with all the best night-time hotspots, you can’t fail to find the perfect location for an exciting evening!
Get Cultured
Bristol is brimming over with fascinating attractions to amaze and entertain. Brunel’s Clifton Suspension Bridge is a must-see, as is the beautiful Cabot Tower which gives stunning views over the town and the surrounding countryside. For an arty experience with a twist, head to the Alma Tavern and Theatre – as the name suggests, this unique attraction combines dramatic art with a traditional pub!
Visit Bristol is packed with ideas for breaks to the area.
Nearest stations: Bristol Parkway and Bristol Temple Meads
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE NEWCASTLE!
Newcastle doesn’t do things by halves. Home to the biggest leisure complex and the largest indoor fair in Europe, some of the best bars in the country, as well as a red-hot cultural scene, there just doesn’t seem to be anything this city can’t do. As famous for its brilliant nightlife as its fascinating history, Newcastle certainly has plenty to offer day-trippers and fun-seekers looking for a city break that brings excitement by the bucket-load.
With so much entertainment jam-packed into one city, it can be hard to know where to head when you step off the train. To save you time, we’ve done all the research for you and found the inside information on the best places to visit during your trip. So grab your Railcard and your mates and discover this spectacular city for yourself!
The Lowdown
Let’s Eat!
The hardest part about eating out in Newcastle is deciding where to go – there are just so many appetizing options! Head to the Stowell Street area for some of the best Indian and Chinese restaurants in the North West or try the lively Salsa Club on Westgate Road for top-notch Mexican and tapas.
Top of the Shops
Whether you’re a bargain-hunter or a boutique-lover, Newcastle’s shopping scene has got it covered. For one of the best retail experiences in the country, the MetroCentre is the place to head, where you’ll find department stores, high street outlets and speciality shops, as well as a vast leisure complex. For a more laidback shopping trip, check out the wonderful wares to be found at the Newcastle Quayside Market .
After Dark
One of the best ways to experience Newcastle by night is quite simply to wander around and see what takes your fancy - for plenty of action, places such as the Quayside and Osbourne Road both make a good start. If you’d rather go out with a specific place in mind, try the legendary Digital or the popular Baja Beach Club, both of which are renowned for being right where the party’s at!
Join the Culture Club
With around 2000 years of history to its name, there’s no shortage of fascinating attractions to discover in Newcastle, from historic buildings to art galleries, museums to monuments. A must-visit on any trip to the city is the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, a free gallery with frequently changing exhibitions.
NewcastleGateshead website has more informaion when planning your trip.
Nearest Station: Newcastle
LIVE IT UP IN LEEDS!
Leeds. A city that’s got...well, just about everything really. Heaps of history, culture galore, a buzzing city centre and enough top-notch restaurants, bars and clubs to keep you thoroughly entertained all day and all night. This exciting city is positively bursting with things to do – the only thing you won’t find is a dull moment!
Whether you’re in search of action and adventure, are planning a romantic city getaway or simply fancy a chilled-out break, you’ll find it all and much more in this Yorkshire gem. What’s more, use your Railcard and you can save money on your way – leaving you more to spend when you get there! With so many great attractions in Leeds, we’ve put together our top tips on the best places to head to during your visit. So all you have to do is hop on the train and hit the city!
The Lowdown
Food, glorious food...
There is a mouth-watering array of restaurants to choose from in Leeds, featuring cuisines from across the globe. From Indian to Italian, French to fusion, there’s sure to be something to keep everyone’s taste-buds happy! For a taste of the traditional, head to Bryan’s Fish and Seafood Restaurant in Headingly, a Leeds institution which has been keeping residents happy with its delicious fish and chips for over 70 years!
Show me the shops!
If it’s retail therapy you want, Leeds can certainly deliver. The Light is a true shopper’s paradise in the heart of the city, offering everything from high street brands to designer names, plus plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars for you to unwind in after a day of shopping indulgence! Market-lovers, on the other hand, will adore the vibrant Kirkgate Market – a great place to pick up a bargain as you browse the colourful stalls.
Oh what a night!
A night out in Leeds is sure to be one to remember, with a host of top night-time hotspots to choose from in and around the centre of town. Choose from traditional pubs or trendy wine bars, a spot of comedy or a spin on the dancefloor. Why not take a trip to hip hangout the HIFI Club, which has been awarded both “Best Nightclub” and “Best Live Music Venue” in Leeds no fewer than three times? The 70s-inspired club, with an emphasis on quality music and drinks, is a great place to spend an evening.
Cram in some culture
The arts scene in Leeds could certainly give the likes of London a run for its money, with the city’s many galleries, museums and theatres providing plenty of inspiration for those in search of a culture fix. The Leeds College of Art hosts a wide range of exhibitions including installations, photography and live performances, while Leeds Art Gallery houses some of the best examples of 20th century sculpture. For unbeatable theatre, head to the West Yorkshire Playhouse.
Visit Leeds website for more ideas on a break to Leeds
Nearest station: Leeds
Not the most obvious destination for the 16-25 scene but with 2 Unis – the Old and Brookes, there’s plenty going on if you know where to look. For the open-minded there’s the weird and wonderful Pitt Rivers Musuem (inspiration for Diagon Alley), lots of Harry Potter, Golden Compass and TV locations to reminisce over & Modern Art Oxford with inspirational exhibitions (currently an ice cream pink floor + large paper bags). There’s Oxford Ice Rink to keep the young kids off the streets and the surreal Steam Punk exhibition at MHS to appeal to your inner technoVictorian. The Westgate and Clarendon Centre offer condensed High Street retail therapy and the music shops stock a good range of CDs, as you’d expect.
Romantics can stroll round Christ Church meadow and embrace under the mistletoe. (If you can’t find it, there’s some in the Botanic Garden next door – maybe limbo underneath?) You could follow in the footsteps of Radiohead and Supergrass and visit the Jericho Taven where they were first spotted.
For nightlife, central Oxford clubs include Kukui (sharing drinks, Hula girls and Honolulu Hunks), Lava & Ignite and the Bridge. But most folk will head up the Cowley Road where the Art Deco Regal and O2 Academy host great gigs, and watering holes and eateries of every description line the street.
For more ideas for festive fun in Oxford, visit www.visitoxford.org
Brighton
Brighton – a city by the sea
Learn everything about Brighton from its historic landmarks like Brighton Pier and the Royal Pavilion to its unique blend of traditional and modern culture. You’ll also find useful information on famous attractions and events such as Brighton Marina, Brighton Museum & Gallery and much more.
Fashionable, funky and minutes from London
Brighton is more than the seaside, more than the city and the mix is more than double the fun. Fashionable, funky and loaded with style, Brighton & Hove has everything you could want from a trip to Britain - a royal palace, elegant Regency architecture, museums with more, laid-back beach life and superb shopping – all this on the south coast of England, just 49 minutes from central London.
Culture and heritage
Walking around Brighton, 400 years of history and style unfold before you. The Royal Pavilion is the magnificent palace created by King George IV, and is an eclectic mix of styles that has to be seen to be believed. Elsewhere, there are museums and galleries galore, special events throughout the year from car rallies to carnivals, and England’s largest arts festival in May.
Attractions
Don’t miss the Royal Pavilion, home of King George IV, and probably the most exotic, extravagant royal palace in Europe. Stroll along the Victorian Pier and the beachfront, where stylish bars and cafés spill out onto the curved paving, jostling for space with surfer shops, giant sculptures, buskers, fresh fish and artists’ studios.
Food and drink
Brighton’s diversity extends to its choice of restaurants. With more than 400 to choose from you can eat your way around the world. Along the beachfront between the two Piers there are several restaurants and cafés – perfect for people-watching. You’ll certainly be spoilt for choice when it comes to food in Brighton, but don’t miss the fantastic fish and chips!
Shopping
Brighton truly is a shopper’s paradise. Explore the intricate maze of twisting alleyways and hidden squares in the 17th century Brighton Laines. The bustling criss-cross streets of the North Laine make a great hunting ground for unique retro, vintage and kitsch finds. And bargain hunters will love the weekend markets and Brighton Marina for discount shopping at factory outlet shops.
Music and nightlife
Brighton’s club scene is internationally known for its innovation, variety and brilliant crowds. Live music is a way of life in Brighton, and well-known DJs are always in town and clubbers travel from far and wide for a night out in the city. On any one night you can choose between jazz, soul, R 'n' B, techno, indie, funk, gay, house, salsa, 60s, 70s, 80s, & 90s.
Must see and do
Top daytime must-do's
- Take a guided tour of the extraordinary and extravagant Royal Pavilion.
- Ride from to Brighton Marina on Volks Railway.
- Fashion, style, art & design, world art – find it all at the Brighton Museum & Gallery.
- Take a walk along Brighton Pier at any time of day.
- Experience one of the best restaurants in the city at Brighton Marina.
Top night time must-do's
- Catch a concert, theatre or comedy show at the Brighton Dome.
- Enjoy a romantic walk across the Royal Pavilion Gardens.
- See your favourite band perform at the Brighton Centre.
- Watch a West End show at the Theatre Royal Brighton.
- Go to Komedia in the North Laine for a great cabaret show.
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For more information about Britain, holiday ideas and practical travel advice, see www.visitbritain.com |
Cardiff
Cardiff is the capital city of Wales, Europe’s youngest capital and one of the fastest-growing cities in Britain. Extensive re-development has given Cardiff world-class sporting and entertainment complexes. Add to this excellent shopping, diverse restaurants and plenty of art, history and culture, and Cardiff is an ideal destination to keep the family happy.
Culture and heritage
Wales is the land of castles, and Cardiff itself is home to a huge number of castles and historic sites. Cardiff’s history dates back to Roman times, and Cardiff Castle, right at the heart of the city, is well worth a visit, from its magnificent Norman keep to the decadent and luxurious interiors of the Victorian castle.
Attractions
When you visit Cardiff, you’ll find the ‘big 3’ attractions – Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium and the National Museum all close to each other in the city centre. But there are great attractions to be found all over the city – on Cardiff Bay there’s the Wales Millennium Centre and Techniquest, and on the outskirts of Cardiff you’ll find the fairytale Castell Coch.
Food and drink
As with most of Wales, Cardiff has a growing reputation for fine dining. This is down to great local chefs, and even better local produce – Welsh lamb and beef, fresh seafood and organic vegetables. In the city’s Brewery Quarter you’ll find a range of great restaurants with an endless choice of cuisine.
Shopping
If you come to Cardiff to shop, you won’t be disappointed. Queen Street is the city’s main shopping area, where you’ll find your favourite high street shops. If you prefer everything under one roof, head to St David’s Shopping Centre; and for unique boutiques and cafés, the Victorian Arcades are a must-see.
Sport
When it comes to sport, Cardiff is a genuine all-rounder. Cardiff is home to the world famous Millennium Stadium, home of Welsh football and rugby and the temporary home of the FA Cup final from 2001-2006. And for golf fans, the Celtic Manor Resort, just 20 minutes from Cardiff, will host the Ryder Cup tournament in 2010.
Music and nightlife
Cardiff’s lively nightlife scene centres around St Mary Street, which has a wide choice of bars, pubs and clubs all in one street. Greyfriars Road is home to great cocktail and wine bars, and Cardiff Bay is fast becoming the city’s most popular spot for nightlife.
Must see and do
Top daytime must-do's
Top night time must-do's
• Enjoy a great show at the Wales Millennium Centre.
• Discover the top music locations in Cardiff.
• Enjoy the best of Cardiff's nightlife with our Cardiff Youth Guide.
• Have a great night out at Cardiff Bay.
• Experience the culture of the Chapter Arts Centre – a gallery, museum and cinema.
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For more information about Britain, holiday ideas and practical travel advice, see www.visitbritain.com |
