This first-century Roman bathhouse complex was a meeting point for patricians who came to bathe, drink the curative waters, and socialize. The baths fell out of use with the Roman exodus from Britain but were rediscovered and excavated in the late-19th century. Explore the Great Bath, which is filled with steaming, mineral-rich water from Bath’s hot springs.

Poole Harbour serves as the gateway to Brownsea Island and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Jurassic Coast, home to natural wonders such as Studland Bay and Old Harry Rocks. The natural harbor—which is one of Europe’s largest—is a hotspot for water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing and stand-up paddleboarding, while Poole Quay is home to a promenade lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants.

At 404 feet (123 meters, Salisbury Cathedral boasts Britain’s highest church spire. In addition to the spire, the cathedral harbors the 1215 Magna Carta—a document that remains a cornerstone of British law—and wows with its 13th-century Gothic facade and elaborate stained-glass windows.

Smoke & Mirrors offers a one-of-a-kind Bristol experience. Enjoy an evening of comedy and magic at this atmospheric pub and 1920s-style performance venue, which hosts a cast of house magicians performing masterful feats and illusions. With seating for only 44 people, the theater offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

With ancient woodlands, windswept heathlands, and freshwater lakes hemmed in by grassy sea cliffs and sandy beaches, Brownsea Island crams a startling variety of scenery into its small landmass. The mostly uninhabited island, which is run by the National Trust, is the largest of the islands in Poole Harbour.

Now permanently docked in Bristol, the SS Great Britain showcases the industrial prowess of 19th-century Britain. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, this 321-foot (98-meter long steamship was one of the largest vessels of the era, as well as being technologically trailblazing, drawing upon both steam and sail power simultaneously.

One of Bath’s most sought-after residential streets, Royal Crescent is a semicircular sweep of colonnaded Georgian terrace houses overlooking Royal Victoria Park. Of the 30 houses here, most are still privately owned though No. 1—restored to peak Georgian-era splendor—serves as a museum, showcasing upper-class life in 18th-century Bath.

Dating from between 2900 and 2600 BC, Avebury is the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle. Originally composed of three stone circles—the largest of which comprised 98 standing stones (though only 27 now remain)—Avebury is truly immense. Though the function of Avebury is not fully understood, it was likely used for pagan ceremonies.

World famous for its eponymous music festival, Glastonbury has a creative spirit that burns all year round. Steeped in history, the small town is known for its medieval abbey and links to King Arthur, as well as its lively markets, artisan boutiques, and thriving arts scene.

Lavish both inside and out, the Grade II–listed Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum offers an insight into the eclectic tastes of world travelers Lady Annie and Sir Merton Russell-Cotes. Here, admire the striking art nouveau architecture, permanent collection of European and Japanese artefacts, sloping English gardens, and more.