Not forgetting…
The Lake District national park, the North York Moors and Snowdonia in Wales offer some of the most spectacular scenery on earth - hills and lakes for as far as the eye can see. Go for a weekend, and spend the days walking, breathing crisp, pure air and relax from the fast pace of the city.
Scotland is full of mysteries and legends, with plenty of stunning scenery to discover, ancient castles to explore and of course Loch Ness, home of the famous monster. It's no wonder Harry Potter and other films were set here given the blend of history, mystery and the wild outdoors.
If you're more of a beach lover than a mountain climber, Devon and Cornwall have miles of pristine sandy beaches and warm water to lounge around. Take a detour on the way down and visit Stonehenge - one of the oldest monuments in the world and an enduring mystery.
Even if you only get chance to see London, you can still get a spectacular view of the entire city out at the top of Primrose Hill, in Regent's Park or escaping to nearby Greenwich or Richmond Park. Look out for architectural masterpieces by the likes of Norman Foster (the Gherkin) and Richard Rogers (the Lloyds building), not to mention One Canada Square (Canary Wharf Tower) one of the tallest buildings in the UK.
The great thing about Britain being so compact is that just an hour or so outside the major cities, you can be in the most tranquil countryside. Look out for the perfect, isolated hotels and 'B&B' (Bed and Breakfast) guesthouses dotted around in small towns and villages.
You may have seen the films and photos from friends and family but there are certain things you just have to experience for yourself.