Posts for United Kingdom Category

From Shakespare’s Birthplace to Butterflies: 10 Must-Visits in Stratford upon Avon

England, United Kingdom - Kyle Mirage - July 31, 2023

Stratford upon Avon

Ahoy, beach-loving adventurers! Imagine this: warm sand beneath your feet, the scent of salt in the air, coupled with the enchanting atmosphere of a town brimming with history and culture. Welcome to the sun-kissed paradise of Stratford Upon Avon! Just like uncovering a buried treasure chest on a sandy beach, there’s a world of rich stories and hidden gems waiting for us to explore. So, unfurl those sails, and let’s set sail on a truly unique adventure. Continue Reading

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Best Place to Stay in London: A Neighborhood Guide for Every Traveler

England - Ross French - February 18, 2023

Best Place to Stay in London

London is one of the world’s most vibrant cities, offering a wealth of experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. From history and museums to luxury, arts and culture, nightlife, and more, there’s something for everyone in this exciting metropolis. In this article, we’ll explore the best place to stay in London, highlighting some of the top neighborhoods based on your preferences and lifestyle—be it family-friendly or budget-conscious.

Family Friendly Stay in London: The City of London

Visiting London and looking for the best place to stay? Consider the city center known as “The Square Mile,” where the Romans first settled in 43 CE. Here you’ll find a financial district filled with history, as well as bustling markets such as Whitecross Street (filled with international food vendors), Sunday Upmarket (for crafts and clothing) and Leather Lane (featuring everything from leather goods to tropical flowers). With its serene atmosphere and central location, this is the ideal area to stay in when visiting London.

London is a bustling city full of attractions and fun things to do. With its many boroughs, visitors will be spoiled for choice when selecting where to stay in the city. London’s top areas for accommodation include Westminster, Kensington, Camden, Notting Hill, Bayswater and Shoreditch. Each area brings its own unique character and attractions – from renowned tourist spots to hidden gems – making it easy to find a best place for everyone.

Best Place to Stay in London

Looking for a place to stay in London? On a budget? Check out St Christopher’s Inn at the Liverpool Street train station! This hostel has clean yet basic dorms, as well as a pub downstairs that offers cheap breakfast and drink discounts. It’s the newest of the eight St Christopher’s hostels located throughout London!

Looking to stay in London, but not sure where to book? Check out the Citadines Barbican London! This recently renovated hotel offers you comfort and affordability right by the Barbican tube station. With many great restaurants like Tinseltown and Workshop Coffee surrounding you, plus a Sourced Market within the hotel itself, you’re sure to have all the food you need during your stay!

If you seek an immersive luxury experience in London, look no further than the Counting House. This classic English pub offers 15 spacious rooms with beds featuring Egyptian-cotton linens and select accommodations even boasting a living room. To top it off, guests enjoy a free hearty breakfast each morning. The best spot to relax after exploring all that London has to offer.

Best Place to Stay in London

Ultimate Luxury Experience: Mayfair

If you’re after a luxurious, upscale area to stay in London, then consider staying in Mayfair. This part of the city oozes sophistication and wealth, with its grand art galleries, exclusive shops and lavish five-star hotels. Plus, it’s conveniently located between Hyde Park and the West End, so it’s easy to explore the many attractions of London. But one thing is for sure – expect a peaceful night considering it’s quiet at night!

Looking for accommodation in London? Mayfair is your best bet! Located in the City of Westminster, this luxurious area has plenty of desirable places to stay, from posh five-star hotels to chic boutique apartments. Whether you’re looking for a short stay or a long one, there are plenty of options available in this popular neighbourhood.

Looking for budget accommodation in London? Mermaid Suite Hotel on Oxford Street is your best bet! Here, you can get a private room with en suite bathroom, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities as well as a free continental breakfast. Enjoy the conveniences of this hotel without breaking the bank.

Looking for mid-range accommodation in London? Try the Mayfair Guesthouse! Located in a great spot, it offers private, spacious rooms with some featuring balconies. Shared bathrooms are usually included but you get amazing value for your money.

For an unforgettable experience in London, book a stay at the Beaumont Hotel! This luxurious hotel is like stepping back in time with its walnut-paneled walls and original art deco rooms featuring king-sized beds. Marble bathroom floors are heated for added comfort. Take advantage of the sauna, steam room, fitness center and hammam while staying here. For a truly special night, enjoy delicious fresh lobster from the Colony Grill or sip on a strong whiskey cocktail in Jimmy’s Bar to get that 1920s feel.

History and Culture Enthusiasts: South Kensington

If you’re looking for where to stay in the famously rich and historic city of London, why not opt for the Kensington area? Not only will you be close to a number of Kensington’s famous parks and gardens, but within strolling distance are a number of renowned museums including the Victoria & Albert, Science and Natural History Museums. And by nightfall, you can experience the royal calm that exudes throughout die mansion-lined streets. A best combination of beauty and culture!

Are you looking for a place to stay in London? Kensington/South Kensington is one of the best areas to settle in. With its close proximity to museums, green spaces and plenty of attractions, this area offers a great number of cozy hotels and charming inns. Whether you’re visiting for a long vacation or just passing by, Kensington/South Kensington is certain to provide comfort and relaxation.

Looking for budget-friendly accommodations in London? Astor Hyde Park is the perfect place! Located right off of Hyde Park, this hostel provides a quiet neighborhood vibe while being within walking distance to major attractions like the Natural History and Victoria & Albert Museums. Plus, guests can expect a very homey atmosphere with wooden décor throughout, as well as a social vibe with friendly staff that are more than willing to help arrange activities and tours for guests. Dorms are spacious and there is an afforable £1 breakfast available. Though be wary if you plan on staying on the upper floors since there is no elevator available.

Looking for a place to stay in London? Consider London Lodge Hotel, where you can find comfortable mid-range accommodation. The rooms are all well decorated in a vintage style, with colorful patterned wallpaper and carpeting, and pieces of furniture that have been carefully chosen to make them feel like home. Single rooms are available as well as executive rooms – which offer more room to move around and spacious bathrooms.

Wanting to stay in luxury while in London? The Ampersand Hotel is your answer. Located close to the South Kensington station, this beautiful boutique hotel showcases unique themed rooms such as music or astronomy. You can also enjoy their posh afternoon tea in drawing rooms and a game of ping-pong in their games room. If you stay on the top floor, you’ll have a great view over London!

Best Place to Stay in London

Experience London’s Arts and Culture: Soho

Where should you stay in London? Soho is a great option! This dynamic district is home to some of London’s most interesting sights and experiences, from lively pubs and eateries to thrilling theaters. Staying here will put you within easy walking distance of the West End’s many attractions and just a 20-minute stroll from some of the city’s famed landmarks. Plus, Soho transforms into an even more vibrant area come nightfall, making it the best place to soak in London’s after-dark scene.

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in London, look no further than Soho. This vibrant West End neighbourhood is a popular area for tourists with its plethora of trendy restaurants, sophisticated bars and shops, theatres and vintage markets. With its wide selection of accommodation options ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly apartments, Soho is the best place to find a home away from home when visiting London.

Planning on visiting London on a budget? Consider staying at YHA Oxford Street – it is one of the most economical yet enjoyable places to stay in the city. Enjoy a night out at the hostel’s bar, take part in various organized activities such as game nights, and make some friends while you’re there!

Are you looking for a place to stay while visiting London? Consider Mimi’s Hotel Soho, located in the heart of the city. The hotel features different room sizes and options, ranging from “tiny” to “lux”. Each room is equipped with floor heating, filtered water and marble bathrooms for added comfort. You’ll also have the opportunity to dine in the on-street bar, Henson’s, which is popular amongst locals and tourists alike.

For luxury accommodation in London, you cannot go past The Soho Hotel. Each room is unique and spacious, with magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows. There is a well-equipped gym and personal trainer on-site, as well as a library full of books to curl up with. You won’t have to go far to explore the vibrant nightlife – trendy bars, restaurants, cafes and theatres are all within walking distance from the hotel, plus Oxford and Regent Streets are only a few steps away.

Experience London’s Arts and Culture: Covent Garden

London visitors looking for a central and vibrant spot to lay their heads at night should look no further than Covent Garden. Located just east of Soho, this traditional theater district is full of historic indoor markets and a charming square, plus plenty of great shops, restaurants and street performers. Ideal for travelers looking to be close to the action!

Are you visiting London and looking for the best place to stay in the city? Covent Garden is a great option. With its central location, it’s close to many of the city’s top attractions and is brimming with restaurants, pubs, entertainment venues, and more. Here you’ll find hotels ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious, so there’s something for everyone. So don’t waste any time — make Covent Garden your base for a fabulous London getaway!

Travelling on a budget? Astor Museum Inn is the ideal place to stay in London! Here, you’ll find clean and affordable dorm rooms as well as a cozy lounge and kitchen. Plus, they offer free dinners regularly. While it’s not quite as picturesque as the Astor Hyde Park, it is still conveniently located for easy access to everything London has to offer!

If you’re looking for a mid-range accommodation option in London, the Strand Palace Hotel is a great choice. With its origins dating back to the early 1900s, this hotel offers single-room options that overlook its peaceful inner courtyards. A perfect place for solo travelers who are looking for some peace and quiet while they explore this vibrant city!

Looking for a luxurious place to stay in London? Consider the Fielding Hotel, known for its charming 19th-century atmosphere. The rooms are small but equipped with big TVs, tea and coffee amenities, and some even have claw-foot bathtubs! Located very close to the Royal Opera House and just five minutes away from Covent Garden Market, it’s the perfect spot for anyone looking for a memorable stay.

Best Place to Stay in London

Budget-Friendly Accommodations: King’s Cross/Camden

London is a great destination for travelers and locals alike. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, there are plenty of places to choose from! Kings Cross and Camden Town are popular settings for those on a budget, with many hostels, vintage shops, bars and restaurants in the area. Camden Lock Market is particularly noteworthy; visitors can browse an array of unique finds here. Whether you’re looking for an exciting nightlife or something a bit more low-key, these areas in London offer something for everyone!

Are you looking for a place to stay in London? The King’s Cross/Camden area is a great spot- with easy access to public transportation, lots of great restaurants, and plenty of cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly options or luxurious accommodation, this neighbourhood has something for everyone!

Looking for an affordable place to stay in London? Generator is a great choice! Located in an old police station, the hostel boasts modern amenities, a large common area, bar and restaurant, and plush beds. It’s well-situated too – just a stone’s throw away from Regents Park, Covent Garden and the British Museum. Note that charging outlets are limited – so be sure to grab one while you can!

Are you looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay in London? Look no further than Ambassadors Bloomsbury! This hotel offers simple and cozy rooms with excellent beds, blackout curtains, and powerful showers. They also serve delicious afternoon tea to help add to your stay.

For those looking for luxury accommodations in London, Great Northern Hotel is a great choice. The traditional hotel dates back to the 1850s, and has been freshly renovated to offer modern amenities. Guests will enjoy extra perks such as free snacks and drinks in the pantry, as well as high ceilings, walnut furniture, and large walk-in showers in their rooms.

Nightlife Hotspots: Shoreditch/Spitalfields

Looking for the best place to stay in London? Shoreditch is a great option! It’s an up-and-coming neighbourhood with a hip and artistic flair, boasting outdoor markets, vintage stores, bars, and plenty of delicious eateries. With its presence of street art among the industrial warehouses and dim back streets, you can explore the various cultures that have left their mark here. Don’t forget to sample some European döner kebab or Peruvian ceviche while you’re there!

When searching for a place to stay in London, look no further than the bustling areas of Shoreditch and Spitalfields. These hip and lively boroughs offer a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and holiday apartments. Whether you’re looking for a short city break or an extended holiday in one of the world’s greatest cities, this is the perfect destination to choose!

Are you looking for a budget-friendly place to stay in London? Look no further than The Dictionary! This hostel has all you need: a rooftop terrace, a bar, free breakfast, and an equipped kitchen. The rooms are basic but spacious and the beds are comfortable. It’s the perfect spot if you want to save money while still having a pleasant stay.

Wondering where to stay in London? Look no further than Brick Lane Hotel! This mid-range option features single, double and triple rooms with en suite bathrooms and a tea/coffee station. Plus, the hotel only has eight rooms, so you’ll get the chance to really get to know the hosts. Don’t forget to try out their onsite Sheraz Bangla Lounge for some amazingly delicious (and affordable!) curry too!

Staying in style? Look no further than Mondrian London—a luxury hotel that stays true to its contemporary design. With spacious rooms, exposed brick walls, nice seating areas, and rainfall showers, you’ll definitely be living in the lap of luxury during your stay. Work on your fitness with daily yoga or cycling classes at the hotel’s fitness center, topped off with a dip in the rooftop pool!

Best Place to Stay in London

Quaint and Charming: Notting Hill

London’s Notting Hill neighborhood is an ideal place to stay if you’re looking for a taste of quintessential British life. The area is known for its charming cobblestone streets and colorful Victorian townhouses, as well as the renowned Portobello Road Market, which takes place each Saturday. Trendy shops line the walls, offering antiques and unique items, while visitors can also enjoy food from street vendors or small cafés and pubs.

If you’re looking for a great place to stay in London, the trendy district of Notting Hill is the ideal destination. With its mix of quaint boutique hotels, luxury serviced apartments and high-end hostels, it’s no wonder that Notting Hill is one of the city’s most popular areas for visitors. From cosy bed and breakfasts tucked away in cobbled streets to spacious flats with picture perfect interiors, there’s something for everyone when it comes to choosing accommodation in Notting Hill!

Looking for a place to stay in London but don’t want to break the bank? Hostel One Notting Hill is the ideal budget choice. Not only do guests receive a free homemade dinner every night, they can also join in various activities, including fun drinking games with other travellers. The hostel itself has a great social atmosphere and friendly staff, although the rooms may be small and the pillows not overly comfortable. Looking for more? There’s also another location in Camden if you’re looking for different vibes.

Looking for a budget-friendly option for your stay in London? Try Ravna Gora! This Victorian mansion is tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined street and offers clean, comfortable rooms with all the usual amenities. Plus, their friendly staff will be happy to help make your stay a pleasant one. Best of all, there’s a common room where you can enjoy free coffee or tea any time of day!

Looking for a luxurious place to stay in London? The Portobello Hotel is your perfect choice. Every room in this chic boutique hotel is unique, featuring trendy elements such as round beds with feather toppers and matresses so high that you need stairs to climb on it. You will also be pampered with the best breakfast ever, from tea and coffee to fresh pastries, cheeses, meats and fruit. Plus, the staff even brings a flask of hot chocolate to your room every night!

Fashionista’s Destination: Chelsea

Looking for a great place to stay in London? Chelsea has it all! This fashionable neighbourhood is home to picturesque hidden squares and brightly coloured buildings. Set right by the Thames, and with Albert Bridge as its crowning jewel, Chelsea boasts beautiful views of the city. From galleries and shopping centres to residential areas, this lively district has something to suit every taste!

Are you looking for the best places to stay in London? One of the top neighborhoods for accommodation is Chelsea. This iconic spot offers a wealth of vacation rentals, and there’s something suitable for everyone. From budget-friendly hotels and hostels to luxury serviced apartments, you’ll find it all in this fashionable area of town.

Looking for a place to stay while visiting London? The YHA Earl’s Court is worth considering. It’s a great budget option, located in an attractive Victorian building that has been recently renovated. They host lots of social activities, and have their own bar, making it the perfect spot to meet new friends!

Looking for a place to stay in London? Consider Chelsea House Hotel, located near Earl’s Court. This 150-year-old Victorian hotel features classic charm and cosy rooms with all the basics you need – tidy beds and free continental breakfast buffet included!

Are you looking for a luxurious stay in London? Blakes Hotel offers the perfect combination of modern amenities, elegant décor and convenience. From four-poster beds to heated floors and soaker bathtubs, the rooms offer something unique that is sure to please. Don’t forget to take advantage of The Courtyard garden – enjoy a cocktail while surrounded by colorful graffiti art and installations including a giant zebra!

Best Neighborhood for Sightseeing and Food: Southwark

London’s South Bank is an ideal place to stay for tourists. It has the historic Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and Borough Market – perfect for foodies! Don’t forget to marvel at the Shard, London’s tallest building, or take a stroll along the river Thames and check out the Tower, Millennium and London Bridge. Accommodations available range from luxurious hotels to hostels making it suitable for all budgets.
Are you looking for the best place to stay in London? Southwark is a great district for travelers, offering a great mix of accommodations from luxury hotels to affordable bed and breakfast options. Whether you’re in town for a business trip or just exploring the city, there’s sure to be something that suits your needs. With its central location, diverse cultural attractions, excellent restaurants, and convenient public transport links, Southwark is one of the best areas to stay in London!

Are you looking for a budget-friendly place to stay in London? St. Christopher’s Inn at the Village is an excellent option. It has eight locations, with the Village location offering easy access to must-see attractions like the Borough Market, the London Eye and Tower Bridge. With communal spaces like its outdoor terrace, as well as social events such as beer pong and musical performances, you’ll get to know your fellow travelers quickly. The hostel is also known for its comfortable pod-style beds, which provide one of the best sleeps in town!

Looking for a mid-range place to stay in London? The Bridge Hotel may just be your best option! Located in close proximity to London South Bank University and the Tate Modern, it has all the comforts you need with some added extras. Guests can expect big beds, soft linens, strong shower pressure and access to the nearby Fitness First gym. Enjoy some evening entertainment at their classic English pub with its additional musical acts.

If you’re looking to stay somewhere luxurious in London, then H10 London Waterloo is the perfect spot for you! This stylish hotel has bright and airy rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, giving lots of natural light. Plus, their beds are incredibly comfortable. Also be sure to take advantage of the stunning views from their rooftop Waterloo Sky Bar, where you can relax with a drink in hand and enjoy the views of the skyline and the London Eye.

Best Place to Stay in London

Diversity and Vibrance: Clapham

Clapham is an up-and-coming district in London that is quickly becoming one of the city’s hottest neighbourhoods. With its affordable rental prices, variety of entertainment options, excellent restaurants and bars, and picturesque Clapham Common park – it has everything you need for a great stay in the city. So if you’re looking for somewhere to stay while visiting London, Clapham may be the perfect place!

When looking for the best place to stay in London, consider Clapham for its convenience, transportation access points and array of accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for a large hotel with plenty of amenities or something smaller and more intimate, you’ll find good options available in this part of the city. At different price points, visitors to London can enjoy the convenience and comfort that come with staying in a great neighborhood like Clapham.

Looking for budget accommodation in London? PubLove The Crown offers basic, clean and secure amenities at a fraction of the price. Located in a local pub that attracts visitors from all over, this hostel was recently refurbished in 2018 and provides individual sockets and security screens for each bed. Don’t forget to take advantage of discounts on food and drink while you’re there!

Looking for comfortable and affordable accommodation in London? The Gateway Hotel might just be the perfect place to stay. Located only two minutes away from the South Clapham metro station, this hotel offers en suite rooms with coffee and tea making facilities. With only 20 rooms, it is an intimate establishment that is sure to make your London getaway stress-free.

Looking for the perfect place to stay in London? The Windmill on the Common offers luxurious accommodations! With its 500-year-old British pub, 42 boutique rooms, and cozy lounge featuring a fireplace and friendly Bernese Mountain dog named Max, this is the ultimate luxury getaway. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to be there Sunday, you can enjoy their delicious roast dinner!

Are you planning a trip to London? Wondering where to stay in the city? Well, there are lots of great neighborhoods in London that offer accommodation for travelers. From trendy apartments in Covent Garden to cozy B&Bs near Madame Tussauds, there is something for everyone and every budget. So choose your spot and enjoy an amazing holiday in the English capital!

Conclusion:

London is a city that caters to all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for luxury, culture, nightlife, or budget-friendly options—there’s a neighborhood in London that’s sure to suit your needs. So why not book your next trip today and explore all that this magnificent city has to offer?

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Rosslyn Chapel Travel Guide

Destinations, United Kingdom - Ross French - March 7, 2022

Rosslyn Chapel Travel Guide

Scotland is a country where one will never run out of places to visit and things to see. The Rosslyn Chapel or the Collegiate Church of St. Matthew is a very popular place among them. Brought into popular culture by Dan Brown in ‘The Da Vinci Code,’ the chapel brings in tourists from everywhere. In this article, we will try to explore it in-depth.

Brief History and Importance of Rosslyn Chapel

William Sinclair – the 1st Earl of Caithness of the Scoto-Norman Sinclair Family – was the one who built the chapel. He established it on a small hill atop Roslin Glen as a Catholic collegiate church in the 15th century. If you were unaware, this church is third on the list of Sinclair places of worship at Roslin. The first and the second ones are Roslin Castle and what is today known as Roslin Cemetery, respectively. One can still see the latter’s buttresses (though collapsing) at Roslin Cemetery even today.

Sinclair’s motive behind founding the college was to celebrate the Divine Office 24/7. He also wished to celebrate Masses for all faithfully departed individuals. These included the Sinclair family members as well. During this time, the use of plainsong or polyphony was rampant to enhance the liturgy singing. William Sinclair also decided to fund the priests and choristers forever. The priests, however, had to fulfill their parochial responsibilities.

The year 1560 saw the Catholic worship in the chapel come to an end after the Scottish Reformation occurred. The Sinclair family never deserted their Catholic beliefs until the early 18th century. But they had to stop public worship in the abbey. It was until 1861 that it reopened based on the rites of the Scottish Episcopal Church.

Sacred Messengers of God:

In 1914, this place was subject to a terrorist bombing. During this period, suffragettes started bombing and arson attacks throughout the country to campaign for women’s suffrage. As a result, on 11th July, a bomb exploded inside the building.

The chapel is not pretty small. However, the intricate stone carvings on the building have brought it a lot of fame worldwide. The place is vibrant and seems to tell its story itself through these striking stone carvings. Such carvings have given rise to many conspiracy theories. We will talk about some of those later.

In those times, bees were regarded as the sacred messengers of God. Thus, a concealed beehive was made high up the roof so that the bees could come and reside there.

Secrets and Mysteries Surrounding Rosslyn Chapel:

RosslynInteriorThe place has been a hot topic among mystery enthusiasts and conspiracy theorists throughout the years. It is because the place is surrounded by mystery. For example, some people believe that the chapel has the Holy Grail buried under it. They say that if we take a look at historical and religious texts, we can find evidence supporting this claim. Also, it is a fact that the church had ties with freemasonry and the Knights Templar. The members of the Knights Templar fled to Scotland after they faced a deadly uprising. For your info, the Sinclair family had close ties with these members.

Here’s another interesting fact. While the claim was long rejected, there has been enough evidence to prove the Freemason-Knights Templar tie. After fleeing their country, the knights who came to Scotland were known to reside a few miles away from Rosslyn. Thus, their known location was close to the Sinclair family’s allies.

The Da Vinci Code:

There are some people who believe that the building was indeed a hiding spot for some mysterious treasure. They believe it could have even been the Holy Grail and that the crypts and underground chambers have the answers. Some scenes from ‘The Da Vinci Code’ movie have been shot in an underground chamber here. Visitors can freely enter this chamber. Nonetheless, the building contains yet another underground crypt that has stayed sealed for centuries.

As expected, this sealed chamber has given rise to curiosity among people. Some even claim that they are certain that this chamber hides something valuable and mysterious. Unfortunately, the location of this crypt sometimes makes visitors miss it. So, remember to look straight down to the left side of the entrance. Their official website says they get flooded with one question a lot. Why not investigate the vaults and put an end to the speculation of what lies underneath? Their answer to this question is that the vaults beneath the building are burial grounds of several Barons of Rosslyn. It’s no surprise that the Earl of Rosslyn has zero intention to perturb the final resting place of his ancestors.

Holy Grail

Moreover, they say that it would harm the chapel’s structural integrity if they conducted such an excavation. But, as we all know, the building has been restored multiple times already. So, they can’t take any such risk.

William The Cat:

Another mystery was the appearance of William the Cat. A cat, really? Yes, a cat. For many years, William was a resident and the feline guardian of the chapel. The local tour guides explained that William came from a bloodline comprised cats coming to the abbey for decades. The locals had seen William frequenting the place for over 14 years, just like his father did before him. Sometimes the cat slept on the church pews. He seemed unfazed by the hundreds of visitors who assembled inside the church every day. Other times, he was seen walking under the cherry blossom trees. Nobody could answer why the cat or his ancestors visited the church.

Interestingly, he had a home in Roslin village, and his owners used to adore and care for him. Still, William the Cat showed up day in, day out to guard the mystifying abbey. Unfortunately, the cat died last year. But it is still a mystery even today.

Let us now take a look at the exact location of this architectural wonder to make things easier for you.

Location of Rosslyn Chapel:

Chapel Loan, Roslin EH25 9PU, United Kingdom

How to Reach the Chapel?

Residing close to Edinburgh, the church stays open every day all year long save Christmas and New Year’s. The church timings are 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (6 PM in the summer). However, you got to remember that you have to enter half an hour before the church closes. Otherwise, you won’t be able to enter it at all. Adults have to pay 9 GBP as an entry fee, while kids can enter the place free of cost.

You can find six guided tours (only three on Sunday) throughout the day. Therefore, you can avail such a tour if you want answers to the many questions you have in mind. FYI, the tour schedule is subject to change. So, it would be best to check their official site for the most current schedule. If you don’t own a car, you can take either bus 37 or 40 from Edinburgh. Don’t worry. It would take about 45 to 60 minutes to reach the place, depending on the traffic.

Best Time to Visit Rosslyn Chapel

As we mentioned earlier, the chapel stays open all year long except Christmas and New Year’s. So, you can visit the church any time you want. However, if you wish to get a better view of the church’s exterior, it’s best to choose summertime. It is because, in summer, the weather is more likely to be in your favor than winter or monsoon. Additionally, summer is the perfect time of the year for exploring the grounds as well. Also, try to visit the chapel on weekday mornings to get some peace of mind. Again, it’s because, during this time, the area remains very pleasant and tranquil.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What is buried under Rosslyn Chapel?

Inside the chapel, a Spartan stone crypt has given rise to many myths and legends. Some even believe that the treasure of the mythical Knights Templar is stored in a deep vault whose entrance is sealed.

  • Is the Holy Grail in Rosslyn Chapel?

Some people believe that the church is home to many hidden treasures, one among them being the Holy Grail. While there has been no evidence of the Holy Grail being kept there, they still believe so.

  • Was The Da Vinci Code filmed in the Collegiate Church of St. Matthew?  

Yes, it was. The church was selected as a location for ‘The Da Vinci Code,’ adapted from the novel of the same name. It was chosen for its ambiance and the mysterious aura that surrounds it.

Conclusion

As you can see, the Rosslyn Chapel is one of the most popular places to visit in all of the UK. The architecture’s popularity was its amazing stone carvings and the mystery surrounding it. The mysterious vibe it emits results in it being a subject to uncountable myths, legends, and conspiracy theories. So, don’t wait any longer. Visit it ASAP to experience first-hand what it has to offer.

 

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Things You Need to Know About Future Travel to the UK & Europe

Europe, United Kingdom - Ross French - February 10, 2021

Travel to the UK

There have been some big changes in Europe and the UK recently. If you happen to live anywhere on that continent, you will know exactly what we’re talking about. But for everyone else, here’s a quick catch up, in case you missed the news.

As of January 2021, the UK is officially no longer part of the European Union or EU. You might have heard the term ‘Brexit’ being thrown around, as in ‘Britain’s Exit’ from the EU. Not Europe – the UK is still geographically part of the European continent. But politically, it has left a union made up of 26 other nations.

This change in the relationship between the UK and this big gang of other European nations has all sorts of practical implications for people wanting to travel, work and do business between Britain and the EU – some big, some minor. Mostly, these changes affect British and EU citizens. But there are also a few knock-on effects worth raising for anyone from the rest of the world planning on doing any traveling around Europe (post-COVID pandemic, of course).

From a traveler’s point of view, one of the great things about the EU is the relaxed or open borders that exist between member states. So if you land in, say, France, you have complete freedom to go explore Spain, Italy, Germany, the Czech Republic and every other EU country without being stopped and quizzed at every border.

This is particularly beneficial if you are planning to hang around in Europe long enough to need a visa – especially if you plan to work while you are there – or if you happen to be from a country that requires a visa to enter the EU full stop. It’s a case of presenting all of your paperwork once on entry, and that’s it. No more long waits to have your credentials checked as you move from country to country.

Now, it should be pointed out that the UK never signed up to the full ‘open borders’ policy, known as the Schengen Area, that the other 26 states agreed to. That means you’ve always had to go through border control traveling back and forth between the UK and the rest of the EU.

But even so, because of the shared visa arrangements, it was very easy (and common) to use the UK as a hub for some long-term travel across the rest of Europe. That is still going to be possible, of course. But there are likely to be added complications.

New visa rules

We’re still in the early stages of what travel to a non-EU Britain looks like (and no one is doing much traveling right now, anyway). But the UK will start to roll out its own visa rules and arrangements at some point and you will need to be up to speed with both to travel between the UK and Europe.

For example, from 2022 the EU is launching a paid-for electronic entry authorization system similar to the ESTA in the United States. This will not grant you permission to travel to the UK. Another important change for long-term travelers is that an EU work visa will not give you the right to pick up a job in the UK. You might have to think more carefully about where you want to base yourself for the majority of the trip.

Other possible changes are to things like travel insurance. Instead of buying a single policy for travel anywhere in Europe, you might find certain providers start to make exemptions and require you to purchase UK-only policies if you want to head there.

This is because the EU, for example, has very clear and consumer-friendly rules on things like flight and package holiday refunds that no longer apply to UK companies, which changes the game for insurance companies in terms of paying out for cancellations.

Given the risk of having your travel plans trashed by COVID-19 lockdowns and ever-changing rules from one place to the next, it’s definitely a good idea to get the right type of cancellation cover wherever you are traveling to.

To find out more, visit Avanti Travel Insurance.

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A Complete Guide to Places to Visit in Wales

Wales - Ross French - January 24, 2021

Places to visit in wales

Wales is one of the most picturesque component countries of mainland Britain. There are uncountable reasons for a traveler to want to come to Wales. Surreal castles, cozy lanes, all make Wales a must-visit place for all the fellow travelers.

At present, travel is a bit restricted due to the pandemic situation. However, with passing time, things are returning to normalcy. The travel restriction is still existing. After the vaccine is in place, it is expected to ease up. But travelers need to plan their trip beforehand. Wales has been one of the most popular destinations.

Wales has more than 400 castles to explore. Innumerable castles and gardens all around, heritage trains and the culture and people of Wales make the country so beautiful. There are many places to visit in Wales. Here is a complete guide to what to do in Wales. Continue Reading

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