WHERE WE'RE DISCOVERING?
Iron Bridge
Spanning the River Severn, linking (once) industrial Broseley to the coal-mining town of Madeley in Shropshire is the world's first cast-iron bridge – symbolising the industrial revolution's birthplace. Erected in 1779 with 378 tons of local iron, the single arch bridge was restored last year for £3.6 million. Explore its construction by Abraham Darby III in the nearby original tollhouse.
english-heritage.org.uk
Cumbernauld Glen
A round 16th century dovecote that looks like Rapunzel's castle, old tunnels and even older trees add mystique to Cumbernauld Glen, the rich wildlife reserve, north east of Glasgow. Whether cycling, hiking or on horseback – spot the vibrant kingfishers, badgers – and snowdrops in the new year.
scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk
A Prince's Treasure is revealed at the Royal Pavilion
A spectacular loan from Her Majesty The Queen, of art and furniture owned by George IV, is on display at the Royal Pavilion in Brighton this autumn. The items, which can be seen or the first time in 170 years, include majestic 15-foot high porcelain pagodas, exquisite Chinese nodding figurines and the impressive dragon fire fenders.
brightonmuseums.org.uk/royalpavilion/
Horseshoe Falls
A feat of 1800s engineering, The Horseshoe (shaped) Falls on the River Dee in North Wales was designed by fabled British engineer, Thomas Telford, to channel water into the Llangollen canal. Travel there in style. Either by vintage horse-drawn boat or by steam engine to Berwyn Station with its Victorian waiting room, stationmaster's house and more.
pontcysyllte-aqueduct.co.uk/attraction/horseshoe-falls
Osborne House and Gardens
Whilst the next season of Victoria is on TV ice, experience the real queen's lifestyle at Osborne House, her holiday home on the Isle of Wight. Alongside the home and gardens, designed by Prince Albert, explore the family's private beach. For a wider regal visit on East Cowes, there's Carisbrooke Castle where Charles I was imprisoned or the Romanov monument, dedicated to the murdered family.
english-heritage.org.uk
The Leechwell
Amongst the narrow lanes of Totnes in South Devon is a slice of medieval life: a 13th century healing well, The Leechwell. The sunken stone and slate structure with its three troughs of water were believed to cure snake-bites, skin diseases and more. Today, it's a draw for meditation and offerings with the water flowing into Leechwell Garden nearby.
leechwellgarden.org; visittotnes.co.uk