Canterbury

Visit old Canterbury in Kent, and you'll quickly see why this magnificent city continues to be a lure for travelers to the UK. Canterbury has been a pilgrimage destination for more than 1,500 years, since St. Augustine began converting pagan Anglo Saxons to Christianity here in AD 597. It's an easy hour's rail ride from central London (or just minutes from the EuroTunnel).

Canterbury Cathedral, which houses the Archbishop of Canterbury, is the city's most recognized attraction. This majestic cathedral, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has plenty to see, from the elaborately carved stone of its outside to its splendid interior, a highlight of which is the lovely choir with its sculptures of six English kings. The beautiful Miracle Windows, which date from the 12th century and represent episodes from the life of slain Archbishop Thomas Becket, are also worth seeing.

After that, spend some time roaming around Old City Canterbury's pedestrianized section, which is home to many intact, old timber-framed buildings, particularly along Mercery Lane.

• Recommended hotel: Hampton by Hilton Canterbury - $130 per night
• Timings: NA
• Location: Canterbury, Kent, UK