/countries/show/united-kingdom/1.rss en-us London is one of the greatest cities on earth for visitors, but there are so many sights and attractions that sometimes the simple pleasures are just ignored, missed, or not even known about. The English are known for their love of a good cup of tea, so where better to drink it than in the nation’s capital? Finding the best afternoon tea in London can turn into an adventure in and of itself, if you let it. You should surely allow your search to spin you around the fingers of the city in a delectable scavenger hunt for the quintessential experience of afternoon tea. You’ll soon learn that there is not one way in which to enjoy high tea in London, but many. Tea at the Savoy (with the piano accompaniment) has to be experienced to be appreciated. Perhaps you’ve just arrived in London, and after your long flight, you don’t want to exhaust your legs running to and from tourist attractions. Instead, you want a calm experience of afternoon tea in London. The Savoy will offer you just that. In the centre of the hotel you will find the Thames Foyer where you can lounge back and be swayed by the cool tones of the resident pianist. Your taste buds will flower as you bite into the homemade scones or sandwiches that accompany your afternoon tea in London. When your legs are rested, and you’ve already seen many parts of the city, you’ll want to search out the next afternoon tea experience in London. The Crusting Pipe, a wine bar and restaurant at the heart of Covent Garden, not only offers you an afternoon tea but also food and wine all day. Getting there will be easy, as it is near Charing Cross, Embankment, Covent Garden, and Leicester Square tube stations (subway stations). What makes high tea at the Crusting Pipe in Covent Garden particularly special is that you can arrange to arrive during the live classical music and opera performances. Just remember to book early, between 2–5pm. Another day passes and you’re once ready to find that next tea adventure. Hopefully you will have thought out this next one in order to secure a seat well in advance. Tea at the Ritz dazzles. You enter in formal garb, as is the requirement, and gape at the room: golden drapery and tapestry, angel white tablecloths like gowns, intricate crown molding and golden trim, lamps and fanciful bouquets of pink flowers, brilliant golden statues and incredible luxury…. You are made to feel Royal. The tea at the Ritz is precise, as the venue is part of the prestigious Tea Guild. The stands of finger food accompaniment are three-tiered—try the smoked salmon sandwich. This is an extreme of high class experience, so take it in strides. After your brush with luxury, it will be time to come back to reality, perhaps going a bit further than you’re used to by visiting a place frequented by truckers and labourers. A greasy spoon, commonly coined as a “caff,” refers to a cafe that sells enough fried food that the place itself is rendered greasy (or at least that is the inference). They won’t serve tea in the cup that you’ve become used to by now, but rather in the larger, stouter mugs. At greasy spoons, you’re served a giant mug of steaming hot and burly strong tea, none of that high class lemony pizazz. TJ’s Café in Mortlake is one such peopled joint. It serves big portions of food for cheap. Indeed, it was called the “best greasy spoon in London 2003”. They say they serve proper chips. The place itself is not fancy, nor is it somehow historically significant. It’s just a good honest hub of real people and strong tea, where you can end your London tea adventure at the other extreme of the spectrum. Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:37:25 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/afternoon-tea-in-london http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/afternoon-tea-in-london If you only take one canal boat holiday in your life, then make sure it is on the Llangollen Canal in Wales. The 41-mile stretch that runs from the Shropshire Union Canal through to Llangollen in Denbighshire, North Wales, is arguably the most beautiful journey of its kind. Perfect for both the experienced boater and the novice or occasional canal user, this route does not fail to impress and inspire. Give yourself at least three days to take in all that Llangollen Canal has to offer. Starting at Hurleston Junction, just north of Nantwich (which has great rail and road links if you’re not based in the area), your trip will start as it means to go on. Presented with meandering farmland, the rest of the world will suddenly start to feel miles away. Almost instantly you will come across your first locks, with four in a row at Hurleston (Llangollen Canal has 21 locks in total). It’s a good time to wave to the locals admiring your lock work and get in the mood for what promises to be an amazing trip. Leaving Hurleston with that sense of achievement that comes with each successfully navigated lock, the following days slowly unfold as you head down Llangollen Canal towards Wrenbury, then slowly on past the market towns of Whitchurch and Elsemere. Each of these locations offers a wonderful distraction from your boating hours, and merits a visit in its own right. Moor up, hop off the boat, and go exploring. After all, that is the beauty of a Llangollen Canal boat tour. Leaving Elsemere, you will glide towards the fortified border town of Chirk. At this point you need to set aside any notions that the Llangollen Canal has already lived up to its stunning repute because the best is yet to come. The 11-mile stretch from Gledridge Bridge, near Chirk, to the beautifully named Horseshoe Falls in Llangollen, was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2009. And after spending any time on this part of the Llangollen Canal, it is easy to see why. Encompassed within this section of canal are two aqueducts which are not only a feat to engineering but are also truly breathtaking. The Chirk and Pontcycsylte aqueducts were engineered by Thomas Telford to carry the canal over the rivers Ceiriog and Dee. With seemingly sheer drops, this sight is truly one that must be seen to be believed. Take a deep breath and stare as you traverse these man-made wonders. After Chirk you will amble towards your final destination, Llangollen. As you get closer, the already narrow Llangollen Canal narrows further. In some places the canal is not wide enough for boats to pass, giving you the perfect opportunity to put your newly-honed boating skills into practice. Gracefully navigating your way to the end point, the beautifully scenic Llangollen marina will not disappoint. Powered boats are forbidden after entering the marina, but horse-drawn boats take up the mantle to show visitors the sights of this wonderful area. Moor up and reward yourself with a trip on the horse-drawn vessels, allowing someone else to do the steering for a change. Alternatively, pop into the Llangollen Wharf tea room for a celebratory home-made scone and pot of your favourite brew. Fri, 09 Sep 2011 18:58:49 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/llangollen-canal http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/llangollen-canal Edinburgh Festival refers back to the original festival that began in 1947 with the goal of providing "a platform for the flowering of the human spirit," after the Second World War. Native and international artists as well as companies in the field of opera, music, dance, theatre and visual arts are invited to play in some of the largest and most prominent places in Edinburgh. These include the Festival Theatre, Edinburgh Playhouse, and Usher Hall. The international high standard of the Edinburgh Festival performances is certainly of utmost importance, and consequently, every act is chosen by the Festival organizers. As a party that everybody wants to attend, whether invited or not, hundreds of artists descend on Edinburgh every August, and it can get a little complicated. In August 1947, upon learning that artists may only appear by invitation only, a number of brave artists began presenting all kinds of shows in the streets of Edinburgh. Thus the Festival was born. The Edinburgh Festival is not an elitist festival for super-talented, rich and famous. It is a festival for everyone, with unwavering focus on freedom of expression along with pure entertainment. As a part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, you can also enjoy a host of other acts of different levels of strangeness in the streets and in the small Edinburgh venues. Not only are there two of these festivals operating at approximately the same time, there is also the Edinburgh Tattoo and Edinburgh Comedy Festival, and a lot of other small independent festivals claiming everyone's attention. The Edinburgh Festival is a real pleasure for the senses, which should be missed. The world literally comes to Edinburgh in August for the Edinburgh Festival. Walking down Princes Street you may hear a large number of different languages. The cosmopolitan atmosphere that exists in the city feels great, and the locals have become much more used to sharing their city with the world's people, and welcome visitors with open arms. A walk down the High Street may take twice as long as it generally would since you can find yourself caught up in the street performances and crowds of fascinated admirers. You can find yourself drawn to innumerable venues on your walk, and take advantage of the extremely reasonably priced (if not free) shows that have many talented and famous performers coming in from all over the world. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 11:48:37 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/edinburgh-festival http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/edinburgh-festival When visiting Scotland, it is almost a shame to whiz past such gorgeous rolling hills, countryside and lochs in a car on the highway. What other alternative is there, you might ask? Horses! In a place such as this, nature is simply begging visitors to slow down and take in the impressive scenery at a normal pace. Many places in Scotland offer horse-riding holidays, which includes accommodation as well as the hire of a horse, tack and other equipment. One of the main advantages of travelling by horseback is that visitors have the chance to view a number of gorgeous sights that are rarely accessible by vehicles. The slower pace and sheer freedom when traveling by horse is hard to beat. A horseback riding holiday can range vastly in price depending mostly on the accommodation. While some simply comprise of a rented room in a medium-sized bed and breakfast, other places allow guests to book an entire cottage to themselves. On the higher end are castles or country homes (aka: mansions) steeped in history and culture; a delight in themselves. Don't be afraid if you've never been riding before. Scottish equestrian vacations are available for all experience levels from beginner to advanced. Novices can get started by enrolling in a few beginner horse-riding lessons, where they are taught the basics of walking, trotting, and communicating commands to the horse. Lessons may either begin in an enclosed compound or on relatively easy terrain in the surrounding area. Alternatively, beginners can opt for a guided trail tour of the countryside. More advanced riders can normally rent out the horses with a guide or with a group. Some of the best riding trails are the ones that trek along the mountainsides offering stunning views of the rugged landscapes. Some of the best vacation packages are those that involve a week-long riding trip out in the wild. A camera is definitely a must when heading out on an equestrian trip in the Scottish Highlands. Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:24:21 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/drive-the-scottish-highlands http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/drive-the-scottish-highlands If you’re an art junkie, then you must find a way to get to Brighton for the Brighton Festival, the largest multi-art form festival in England. Take whatever transportation you can, as the 23-day Brighton Art Festival is truly an experience to be had. Starting in 1967, the first exhibit of the inaugural year included the controversial exhibit of Concrete Poetry right alongside fantastic performances by Anthony Hopkins, Lawrence Olivier, and Yehudi Menuhin. Not to be confused with the Brighton Fringe Festival, the Brighton Festival is a series of programmed events; whereas the Brighton Fringe Festival allows access to anyone and everyone who wishes to partake. Both festivals occur during May. The Brighton Festival has plenty of entertainment and various performances to choose from. From stand-up comedy, opera, and straight through to street theatre, there really is something for everyone at the Brighton Festival, including a myriad of music, visual art stalls and literature throughout the city. A great feature about the Brighton Festival is the Children's Parade, which is an organized procession where five thousand children from across the city work day and night with artists, choreographers, musicians, parents and teachers to make this parade the best and biggest event. 2011's parade is based around the concept of "The Rights of the Child...." Children are decked out in colourful costumes, and with giant puppets in hand, take to the streets of Brighton while walking to the sounds of samba. Another unique feature of the Brighton Festival is the Artists Open House. This concept is one you may only see in Brighton during the festival, where artists and craftspeople literally open up their houses for those walking through the streets to view their works. Truly an amazing sight. Every year, the Brighton Festival has a new guest director with a passion for culture. 2011's guest director is Aung San Suu Kyi, who is working hard to create peace in Burma. The Brighton Festival is surely an experience for your art junkie bucket list. Tue, 10 May 2011 03:42:41 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/brighton-festival http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/brighton-festival Explore Georgian palaces, Victorian glasshouses, manicured landscapes, and more than 250 years of history at Kew Gardens in London: the world's most famous botanic garden. Climb up into the treetops, delve deep into rainforest, or discover more on a guided tour. Established in 1802 with the union of the Richmond and Kew estates, Kew Gardens grew from a private exotic garden into a national institution. Today its 300 acres of parkland is home to the world's largest collection of indoor plants, including some of the rarest specimens to be found.   Kew Gardens grows over 30,000 species in five glasshouses: the Palm House, Temperate House, Waterlily House, Alpine House, and the Princess of Wales Conservatory. Of these, the Palm House and the Temperate House are the most famous.  The Palm House is the UK's oldest surviving Victorian glasshouse, while the Temperate House boasts the world's tallest indoor plant: a 16-metre Chilean wine palm.   As well as cultivating an impressive array of common, rare and exotic plants, Kew Gardens educates its visitors on the useful properties and cunning survival tactics of its inhabitants. Informative and kid-friendly signs point out quirky facts about the specimens on show, and explain how different plants have evolved to outwit the most challenging of habitats.   Although Kew Gardens is famous for its glasshouses, there are plenty of other activities on offer. The Xstrata Treetop Walkway is a great experience for those brave enough to climb 18 metres into the tree canopy; while the Marianne North Gallery is a must-see for art lovers. The walls of this newly refurbished gallery are packed floor-to-ceiling with intensely detailed oil paintings by the intrepid Victorian traveller Marianne North. She braved bogs and jungles to capture the flora and fauna of the Americas, India, South Africa and Australasia. Kids are also well provided for with two play areas (both indoor and outdoor) featuring slides, tunnels, climbing nets and zip-wires. There's even a human-sized badger set for the little ones to explore.   After a long day strolling across Kew Gardens' tidy lawns and vast arboretum, visitors can bolster their appetite with fresh sandwiches and traditional cream teas from any one of four food venues. The Grade I-listed Orangery is a particularly pleasant spot to graze in, while the Victoria Plaza Shop (situated at the entrance) is an essential stop-off for anyone with green fingers and a love for floral patterns. Sat, 19 Feb 2011 05:39:12 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/kew-gardens http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/kew-gardens London is the home of one of the world’s greatest theatre districts—the West End. Like Broadway in New York, London’s West End is synonymous with famous plays, musicals and grand productions. Great shows like Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables have remained so popular, that they have been running non-stop for 24 and 25 years respectively! As popular as they are, these shows are dwarfed by the long-running Agatha Christie play The Mousetrap, which has been running since 1952! London’s West End theatre district can mean a large area of central London, including Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, and other notable places. At the heart of the London West End show scene the corners of Shaftesbury Avenue, Drury Lane, and The Strand stand illuminated; most of the main shows can be found along one of these streets. Independents and other outliers are further bordered by Oxford Street to the north, The Strand to the south, Regent Street to the west, and Kingsway to the east. From first note through to the final curtain seeing Les Mis, one of the best of London's West End musicals, is an unforgettable experience. The apprehension builds as the orchestra begins to warm up for Victor Hugo’s masterpiece. Whilst I have experienced this musical at home in Melbourne, Australia, there is something to be said for the vibe you get watching Les Misérables in London, England’s theatre district. The tragedy of Jean Valjean and Fantine is one that engrosses and encapsulates the audience, and testament to that is the enduring nature of both the novel and the musical. Despite being written almost 150 years ago, the story has all the elements of a great tale: the tragedy, the suspense, the hope, and the jubilation. And where better to see this classic then in London’s West End. One of the best things about the West End theatre district is that all sorts of restaurants and pubs surround it, meaning you don’t have to travel very far to find a decent meal. There are plenty of choices, ranging from standard pub grub to Chinese, and even to American style bar and grills. It’s very easy to go and get a bite before or after the show. Tue, 16 Nov 2010 02:05:21 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/london-west-end http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/london-west-end London’s Tower Bridge is one of the city of London’s most famous landmark attractions, and is a national symbol that makes you think of the splendours and history of London just from the sight of it. The iconic status of London’s Tower Bridge has seen it featured in several films and television series, including the critically lauded Spice World, the recent remake of Sherlock Holmes, and, lest we forget, the most British of all TV “programmes”: Doctor Who. Tower Bridge opened to the public after eight years of construction in 1894, and quickly became a public icon. However, in order to become the bridge it is today, several changes had to occur, both on the interior and exterior. During World War II, a third steam engine was added to the two impressive hydraulic systems already at work. Tower Bridge was then converted to run on electricity, although the original systems are preserved. On the outside, a change of architect resulted in Tower Bridge going from a red brick design to a brown one, which was eventually also changed with a refreshing paint job in 1977 to commemorate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee. Eventually, Tower Bridge went from its older brown hue to the patriotic colours of red, white and blue. Currently, Tower Bridge is decked out in blues, grays and whites; and, thanks to an ongoing facelift, is now much better lit at nighttime. Aside from its pleasant appearance, Tower Bridge is also a gateway to many others London attractions. It is snugly situated on the River Thames and offers views to many other London favourites, such as London City Hall, the Tower of London, and the Gherkin. These sites are easily seen—even on a classically British rainy day—by entering the Viewing Gallery situated 45 meters above the River. Inside the warm-windowed gallery, tourists are free to enjoy the sights without the wind or rain. Tower Bridge is a beautiful landmark, an easy way to see some of London’s sights, and an architectural feat. In short, Tower Bridge is simply a must-see for anyone going to England’s bustling capital city. Fri, 29 Oct 2010 03:18:07 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/tower-bridge-london http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/tower-bridge-london London is a city of overwhelming options. There is so much to see and do that you could spend a year here and not even scratch the surface of its possibilities. From the busy, colourful markets, to the crazy, nighttime party scene and everything in between, it can be difficult to make up your mind about how to allocate your time when you're visiting London, England.  A Thames river cruise is a great way to catch a glimpse of many of the main attractions and perhaps whet your appetite for a more in depth look at some of the other things you can see and do in the city.    The tour guides are one of the selling features of a cruise on the River Thames.  Quintessentially English with a great sense of humour seem to be the qualification necessary to get the job of a River Thames tour guide. They deliver in-context information so obscure that most Londoners don't even know it, and they will have you laughing out-loud as they impart their lifetime of knowledge about London and its famous river.    Many of these Thames river boat cruises depart from Westminster Pier, from where you can see the most iconic London monuments, like the parliament buildings and Big Ben on the north side, and the London Eye or Millennium Wheel on the South. Just west of the London Eye is a Dali elephant to mark the entrance to the Dali Universe, but this won't be here for long as it is relocating. Westminster Bridge is fun to watch as well, as it is always crowded with city dwellers trying to speed past meandering tourists, with open-air tourist buses crossing over the bridge, and foreign ladies trying to sell little flowers to passers-by.  As you cruise east on the River Thames you can see a lot of city life on either side.  Lots of great restaurants, including some of the best English chains, are full of people on terraces, and those avoiding the showers by huddling under entranceways. Street performers also line the Southbank, a sort of English version of Las Ramblas. On the north side you can catch a glimpse of the tiny but shiny flame at the top of the monument, a tribute to the great fire. The best views of the stunning St. Paul’s Cathedral are also from the River Thames or from the ultra-modern Millennium Bridge that you'll pass under. This is just the beginning of what you'll see as you take your river cruise, which are available rain or shine, necessary in London, and give you glimpses at London that you could have from no other vantage point. Wed, 15 Sep 2010 05:37:00 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/river-thames http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/river-thames The white cliffs of Dover have been as important in literature as they have been in history. Significant in the Napoleonic wars and World War II, they have represented England's last line of defence in poetry and literature. In Matthew Arnold's poem, Dover Beach, it's the tide ebbing away from the cliffs that have the significance in terms of a loss of faith. The cliffs of Dover also symbolize England itself, for which Rudyard Kipling is so homesick in his poem “the Broken Men.” Regardless of the symbolic value of the white cliffs of Dover, it happens to be a great place to while away an afternoon. With the Dover castle as a backdrop, you can feel nature take over as you explore the interesting and beautiful cliff formation and be surprised by the wildlife you come across in the process. Don't be surprised, for example, if you happen upon a herd of free-roaming horses. Although these horses have been imported by wildlife organizations in Dover, the ancestors of these horses, the wild but extinct Tarpans, may have roamed here in prehistoric times. While the famed “bluebirds over the white cliffs of Dover” may represent war planes with blue underbellies, there are many bird species as well, that contribute to the sounds you'll hear as you walk. Of course, the cliffs themselves are the star of the show. Made mostly of chalk, and subtly marbled with flint and quartz, these cliffs are a good example of how something very small, like a single-celled algae, can create something of such grand scale. These cliffs can be enjoyed from three different angles: from above, walking along the grassy pathways from the visitors centre, from below, walking along the pebbly beach, or from a distance, as you cross the channel, either coming from or going to the continent. Wed, 25 Aug 2010 04:24:25 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/white-cliffs-of-dover http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/white-cliffs-of-dover Over the last couple years, volunteer travel has become extremely popular among college grads and young travelers. Much of this has stemmed from the dissemination of information the Internet provides, making people aware of the volunteer needs and opportunities in other cultures. Such as the case, many people have quickly jumped at the opportunity to travel the world, while also volunteering. One of the most well-known organizations is the World-Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF); also known as Willing Workers on Organic Farms. Although volunteerism has only gained significant momentum in the last few years, WWOOF has actually been around for almost 40 years, being established in England in 1971. It began on a small tract of land with just one woman who wanted to promote organic farming, while providing resources for the community. Today it has grown to include thousands of farms in 100 countries. WWOOFers, as they're called, spend a few hours a day volunteering on their assigned organic farm in exchange for accommodations and food. Volunteers get to work alongside other WWOOFers, learning about the culture where they have come from, while also being educated by the farm owners themselves on organic farming and the local culture. It's an educating experience for everyone involved. Lengths of stay range anywhere from a week or two, to several months. Volunteers rarely do it in their own country, rather choosing to volunteer in a country they've never been to, in order to learn about a new culture. Since it was where it originated, the UK is often the first choice. To begin the process, interested participants simply begin by going to the WWOOF's main page and then navigate to the country they are interested in volunteering in. Many of the countries have their own page, which list farm locations and more details about volunteering. There's typically a nominal fee upfront to help offset some of the costs of WWOOF. Volunteers don't pay the farm hosts for volunteering, nor are they paid by their hosts. Interested participants can read the descriptions of each farm and decide which farms to contact about becoming a volunteer. It's important to carefully plan before making your first WWOOF trip. You may even consider taking a short trip first, to make sure the experience and the farm itself is a good fit, before committing to an entire season. In preliminary discussions with the host, volunteers should clearly understand the expectations, work, and accommodations that will be provided. Following some of these guidelines will make for a successful volunteer experience that is not only serving a purpose, but also satisfying and rewarding for both the volunteer and the host. Wed, 11 Aug 2010 04:05:20 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/world-wide-opportunities-on-organic-farms http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/world-wide-opportunities-on-organic-farms Roughly 200 years ago a group of geniuses decided it would be fun to chase a wheel of cheese down the steepest hill they could find. Although there is no concrete information describing how this tumble derby began, or why the Double Gloucester wheel of cheese is its coveted prize, one thing is for sure, the Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling Festival is one of the UK's most anticipated annual events. Before the rest of the world discovered the Brit's idea of fun it was attended only by locals, but over the years the popularity of Gloucestershire's cheese rolling has grown immensely and now attracts crazy cheese chasers from around the world. Every May long weekend a bunch of people (drunk, crazy... most likely both) take their spot on the starting line at the top of Cooper's Hill, located in Gloucestershire, England. They release a wheel of cheese and the first person down the hill to catch it wins. If you're wondering why it's called 'Cheese Rolling' and not called 'Cheese Chasing' take a quick look at some of the photos. It's impossible to stay on your feet the entire way down, so get some rugged clothes, padding or even an eye-catching costume and get ready to roll. The day starts off like most holidays, a full English breakfast complimented with some pints and then all aboard a bus to be taken to Cooper's Hill. By no means is this your average bus ride, on this bus it is a requirement that random outbreaks of karaoke take place, aided of course by the occasional beverage. Typical playlists might include Ring of Fire, Wonderwall and a few Aussie classics. After the two and a half hour drive from London it's time for some exercise; just a light hour and a half hike up Cooper's Hill. With the starting line underfoot, it is the first time the reality of how steep Cooper's Hill really is, dawns. With roughly twenty people per race and another hundred waiting, a silence falls and participants stagger in the wind as the anticipation builds. In a flash the horn is sounded and everyone starts racing the hill, some still on their feet and some already doing uncoordinated acrobatics. Although many come in with a game plan on how to maneuver down Cooper's Hill, all bets are off when you realize your running like a three year old who's feet can't keep up with their body, and from that point on it becomes a blur of ground, sky, and mud. At the bottom of Cooper's Hill, to our dizzying discontent we were informed that the coveted Double Gloucester wheel of cheese is only used in the first five races. So if you plan on participating in the Cheese Rolling Festival try to get in the first five races to have a chance at taking home some cheese. Although a bit dangerous, Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling Festival is loads of fun and quite the unique rush. Not too mention the bragging rights you get for being able to say you participated in one of ESPN's craziest sports. If you can't make it to the top of Cooper's Hill to participate, as a spectator it’s still a hilarious day taking in the uncontrollable tumbles and tosses of participants. Thu, 20 May 2010 16:48:04 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/coopers-hill-cheese-rolling http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/coopers-hill-cheese-rolling Rising high above the River Thames, and set against iconic architecture that has stood for centuries, the London Eye has provided spectacular panoramic views of London for over a decade. With 3.5 million riders boarding its thirty-two capsules annually, “The Eye” has established itself as the UK’s most popular paid tourist attraction. Situated in Jubilee Park in the South Bank area, the London Eye Ferris Wheel was built as part of London's millennium celebrations. Truly European in construction, the London Eye used mechanical contributions from six countries. Electrical components came from the UK, as was the steel (although it was fabricated in The Netherlands). The cables and glass came from Italy; bearings from Germany; spindle and hub were cast in the Czech Republic; and the capsules were made by Poma in France. Much of the most dramatic London Eye construction came from large sections of the wheel floating on barges along the Thames, where they were assembled on a large temporary platform on the river. The 1700-ton Eye was then erected to 65°, where it remained suspended, dangling over the Thames while awaiting the final stages of its construction. At 135 meters (443 ft) tall, the London Eye ranks fourth as London’s tallest structure, towering above neighboring notables such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, Victoria Tower, and the Tower Bridge. The London Eye does, however, contain the highest public viewing point in London. Many famous landmarks are clearly visible, including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and many of the bridges that cross the Thames. On a clear day, riders can see around 40 km (25 miles) in every direction, allowing for a view as far away as Windsor Castle. When former Prime Minister Tony Blair opened the “Millennium Wheel” on December 31, 1999, the London Eye was by far the world's tallest Ferris wheel. It was later surpassed by the Star of Nanchang in 2006. The London Eye now ranks third, after the Singapore Flyer opened as the new tallest Ferris wheel in 2008 (but will fall to fourth when Beijing’s Great Wheel opens in 2010 at 208 meters (682ft)). The London Eye can accommodate up to 800 passengers at any time per revolution. Thrill seekers need not apply here however, as each rotation takes about 30 minutes. With a circumference of 424 metres (1,392 ft), this hard math translates into each capsule travelling at a less-than-blistering pace of 26 cm per second, or 0.9 km (0.6 miles) per hour. This is twice as fast as a tortoise sprinting and allows passengers to step on and off without the wheel having to stop; though it will stop occasionally to assist the loading and unloading of disabled passengers and others who may need assistance. Often referred to as London’s version of the Eiffel Tower, the London Eye has quickly become one of the most important symbols of the city. Since 2005, London’s New Year’s celebrations have revolved around the 10-minute fireworks display that is launched off the wheel itself. Organizers have announced that the Olympic Emblem will be displayed on the Eye for the duration of the 2012 Summer Games. Mon, 10 May 2010 14:09:44 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/london-eye http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/london-eye Stepping out of the London Underground at Westminster, you may be caught off guard by the sheer size of Big Ben as it immediately confronts you. Although it may seem child’s play to take a photo of such a looming stationary subject as one of the world's largest clocks, it actually involves some photographic tact and maneuvering. Neighbouring the former Palace of Westminster, which was destroyed in 1834, Big Ben was included as part of the new Westminster rebuilt in 1844. Big Ben first rang out over London on May 31, 1859, but the bells cracked just two months later. Rotated and replaced with a lighter hammer, this is the bell we hear today. The name “Big Ben Clock Tower” is really more of a mishmash of names and references. Typically, people refer to Big Ben as the entire clock tower, when in fact it is only the nickname for the largest bell that rings out on the hour. The formal name for the big bell, although rarely used, is the Great Bell. Surrounded by four smaller bells, Big Ben is eight feet in diameter and weighs 13 tons. While most believe it's the heaviest bell in Britain, it's really in third rank behind Great Paul in St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Great George in Liverpool Catholic Cathedral. The origin of the name Big Ben is believed to be linked to the name of the original commissioner, Sir Benjamin Hall, who was a larger man, endearingly known as "Big Ben". Over the years, the familiar tune of the Big Ben clock chimes has become a well known identity of London, and people have even created their own lyrics to go along with it. The most popular among those lyrics is, "All through this hour, Lord be my guide; and by thy power, no foot shall slide.” While Big Ben Clock Tower is a popular attraction in London, the entire area surrounding it is rich in history and culture. A walk across the street will take you to Westminster Abbey; and a twenty minute walk through the St James Park will lead you to Buckingham Palace. Listening to Big Ben on the hour is a great starting point for any cultural experience in London. Mon, 12 Apr 2010 18:01:26 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/big-ben-clock http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/big-ben-clock Canterbury was once a pilgrimage stop on the way from London to Rome. When Thomas Becket was murdered at Canterbury Cathedral in AD 1170 by knights of King Henry II, Canterbury became a pilgrimage site in its own right. With Canterbury just a quick train ride from London, you can be transported back in time, in little more than an hour, to a town with a slower pace, more space, and a higher proportion of old buildings. The Cathedral is located within the old city walls. Narrow, winding pedestrian streets lead to Canterbury Cathedral, with lots of great cafes and shops along the way. A bronze sculpture of Christ in the Archway leading to the gardens makes for a stunning first impression. Wandering through Canterbury Cathedral is a lesson in history as some parts were built as early as the 11th century, and as late as the 16th century. There are often special musical events going on in Canterbury Cathedral which add to the general atmosphere. There are impressive works of art to see as well, such as the stained glass (some from as early as AD 1180), as well as paintings like the Legend of St. Eustace, which is dated from AD 1480. The most famous part of Canterbury Cathedral, the shrine to Thomas Beckett, is perhaps what many visitors are most interested in seeing, as this was the object depicted in the pilgrimages of Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales." Unfortunately, this was destroyed by Henry VIII in 1538, but there is still, however, a very serene and meditative environment in the place where the shrine was originally located. The room that contained the shrine is made of smooth, dark stone, and the main central part of the room is roped off with a candle marking where the shrine would have been. Fri, 19 Mar 2010 15:49:23 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/canterbury-cathedral http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/canterbury-cathedral Loch Ness is more than the name of an alleged sea monster. It is a Scottish lake, the site of the historic Urquhart Castle, and an area of towns and villages. The term “loch” is a Gaelic name for lake, so Loch Ness would roughly translate to “Lake Ness”. It is located in the Scottish Highlands, and is arguably the best known of the Scottish lochs due to its legendary association with the Loch Ness Monster. Some people claim that it is the most famous lake in the world. Nessie aside, Loch Ness pulls in many second place records. It is both the second largest and second deepest of all the Scottish lochs, but the most voluminous in terms of water held (Loch Ness contains more fresh water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined). Loch Ness is roughly 24 miles wide, and at its deepest point, it is nearly 1,000 feet. Sightings of Nessie date back to the 15th Century, but it caught world interest in the early 1930's. To date, there is no conclusive evidence of the Loch Ness Monster's existence. Hundreds of pictures and stories circulate, claiming to be proof, but no scientist has ever agreed on the “evidence”. For the moment, Nessie merely adds mystique and mythology to an otherwise average, though beautiful, loch. Nessie is thought to be a surviving trace from the age of the dinosaurs. Many claim to have seen her, and there are tours that will take you around the Loch Ness in avid search of Nessie. Loch Ness joins Loch Oich and Loch Lochy along the Great Glen, a fault running across the whole width of the Scottish Highlands. These three lochs are joined by the Caledonian Canal, which allows boat traffic to travel east to west through a system of locks (not to be confused with lochs). Construction on the Caledonian Canal began in 1803 by Thomas Telford, a British engineer noted for his work on canals. The Canal was completed in 1822, and spans 60 miles, containing 29 locks throughout its entirety. When the Caledonian Canal was first built, it opened the Scottish lowlands to trade and industry. Loch Ness dates back over 10,000 years, and is said never to freeze. Swimming is not recommended as it has very high peat content and becomes very deep quite quickly. There is one island on Loch Ness— the man-made Cherry island. Called a crannog and built of stone and oak, it was possibly a fortified refuge during the Iron Age. Urquhart Castle dates back to the 6th century, and is sited on a peninsula jutting into Loch Ness. Though it is now only ruins, it was once one of the largest strongholds in Scotland. The Castle was destroyed in 1692 to prevent it from falling into the hands of the Jacobite. This plan worked, but the Castle was never repaired, and is now a historical tourism site. Whether you venture to Loch Ness in search of natural splendour or a mythical sea creature, the visit is sure to amaze. Perhaps it will be YOU who secure concrete proof of the Loch Ness Monster's existence? Wed, 10 Feb 2010 12:56:01 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/loch-ness http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/loch-ness During the American Revolution, whiskey was used as a form of currency. But it wasn't until the maiden voyage of the S.S. Bushmills in 1890 that the famous Bushmills brand made its debut in the United States from the shores of Ireland. As the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, the Old Bushmills Distillery has been in operation for more than 400 years, and has built a solid reputation for producing high quality Irish whiskey. As such, in Northern Ireland's Country Antrim, the Bushmills Distillery tour attracts more than 100,000 visitors annually, who come to savour the smooth whiskey and glimpse into the secrets of traditional distilling. The Old Bushmills Distillery was officially licensed by English King James I in 1608. Many believe, despite a lack of evidence, that the troops of King Henry II may have even enjoyed its flavours 400 years earlier. These very same soldiers may also be responsible for first pronouncing the word "whiskey." They struggled with the native Irish words of "uisce beatha," which means "water of life," and Anglicized it to the word of "whiskey." The "e" was added around 1870 by Irish and American distillers in an attempt to differentiate themselves from the Scottish, who were gaining a reputation for poor quality. The quality of Bushmills whiskey isn't one to question though. There are a few retired Bushmills whiskey brands, but five distinct whiskies are still being produced by the Distillery: The original whiskey, the Black Bush, and the 10, 16 and 21 year issues, all with varying tastes. The Bushmills Distillery tour details the difference in each of these whiskies and explains how they're matured and produced from the corn fields, through traditional still pots, to glass in hand. It's even possible to watch the whiskey being made. But, without a doubt, the best part of the Old Bushmills Distillery experience is the sampling at the end of the tour. A taste-testing opportunity is also possible if you're lucky enough to be selected, so make sure to pay attention during the tour and volunteer when the time is right. A stop in the gift shop after the tour is also a great part of the experience as special issue whiskey, which can only be purchased at the Distillery, is sometimes available (and possible to personalize with the visitor's name). In May of 2008, around the 400th anniversary of the licensing of the Distillery, the Bank of Ireland applauded the superior quality of the Bushmills Irish whiskey. The distilling process that was brought home from missionaries around the 6th Century, and was celebrated in an interesting way as the bank issued notes in Northern Ireland with the Old Bushmills Distillery on one side. The new image replaced the one of the Queen's University of Belfast, which was used since 1929. So while Irish whiskey isn't necessarily used as direct currency still today, it is now possible to purchase it with the new pounds sterling that are legal tender in the United Kingdom. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 14:39:47 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/bushmills-distillery http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/bushmills-distillery Cardiff Castle is part medieval castle, part Gothic mansion, and is a mixture of old and new, enchanting the eye and exciting the imagination. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Castle is the Norman Keep, a medieval dungeon or fortress structure dating back to the 12th century. The remains of a fireplace and a set of stairs are visible within the stone Keep, and if you ascend the stairs you will reach the top of the Keep, which offers a lovely view of the grounds. Norman Keep is encircled by a water-filled trench, and this miniature moat is often occupied by ducks. Standing atop the Keep and taking in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings, it is difficult to imagine that this was once the prison of Robert Duke of Normandy until his death in 1134. Prior to the Norman occupation, the Romans possessed what is now the site of Castle Cardiff. The Roman ruins were uncovered in the 1800s, and the remains of the Roman fort are visible at the base of the Norman walls. The separation between the Roman constructed walls and the Norman walls is demarcated by a thin layer of red sandstone. The Victoria era is also represented at Cardiff Castle. In 1863, the third Marquees of Bute commissioned English architect William Burges to rebuild his Victorian mansion, and the Castle underwent large-scale renovations. Examples of Burges’ Victorian gothic revival style can be seen in the Clock Tower, which is decorated with Medieval shields and majestic courtly figures. The interior of the mansion holds more of Burges’ unique designs. Some of the more noteworthy rooms are the entrance hall (with its beautiful stained glass windows), and the overwhelmingly ornate Arab Room. The Arab Room of Cardiff Castle features a resplendent gilded ceiling and a chimney made of white marble and lapis lazuli. The library is also impressive, containing old books, stained-glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible, and finely-crafted doors and shelves. After its long history of altering ownership, the Castle was finally turned over to the city of Cardiff in 1947. One might assume that the culmination of so many different time periods would create a disjointed design, but the blend of architectural styles results in Cardiff Castle having everything one would hope for in a castle. The Roman walls suggest an intriguing ancient history, the Norman Keep offers a romantic Medieval vision, and the Victorian mansion is the epitome of the Gothic revival style. Tue, 05 Jan 2010 18:42:48 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/cardiff-castle http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/cardiff-castle The city of Edinburgh features beautiful parks and gardens, remarkable buildings, and the marvellous Edinburgh Castle. It may seem surprising, but this charming city has a grisly past that sets a spine-chilling stage for the notorious Edinburgh ghost tours. Edinburgh has been called one of the most haunted cities in Europe, and there are several companies ready to prove its reputation. Mercat tours, Auld Reekie tours, and Black Hart Entertainment are some of the most popular Edinburgh ghost tour companies; and each of these companies offer a variety of tours to suit your individual ghost-hunting needs. Some Edinburgh ghost tours take place during the day and are aimed at younger children. Other ghost tours take place late at night in order to make use of city's chilling vibe. It’s easy to be skeptical about an Edinburgh ghost tour; I myself was anticipating cheap thrills similar to a haunted house. Instead of corny and clichéd, it was simple and effective. A single cloaked guide met us at the Mercat Cross and led us through Old Town Edinburgh. The atmosphere of the ghost tour was entirely dependant on our excellent guide, who stopped at various points during the tour to tell us ghost stories. If this doesn’t sound creepy, imagine being underground in the dark Edinburgh Vaults, lit only by flickering candles, listening to an intensely-quiet voice, narrating tales of murder. Most of the ghost tours include a trip to the Edinburgh Vaults, which are undoubtedly creepy, as well as historically interesting. The Edinburgh Vaults are series of small chambers and tunnels that were built beneath one of the arches of the South Bridge in the 18th century. The Edinburgh Vaults were originally intended to be used as storage facilities for the merchants who worked on the South Bridge, but following flooding, they were abandoned and eventually inhabited by Edinburgh’s poor. The conditions in the Edinburgh Vaults were dismal—no light or ventilation and poor sanitation—leading to a breeding ground for illicit activity and criminals. The infamous serial killers Burke and Hare supposedly brought their victims underground before selling them to an anatomy professor. The Edinburgh Vaults have even been featured on Most Haunted, a UK paranormal investigation program. The highlight of the Edinburgh ghost tour came at the end when our guide brought us to a small old mausoleum in Greyfriar's Cemetery. While we huddled together in the darkness, she told us the tale of the famous cannibal James Douglas, Earl of Drumlanrig. One night in 1707, the mentally disturbed Duke escaped his room in his Edinburgh home while the other inhabitants were out. Finding no food in the kitchen, he roasted a kitchen boy on the spit and proceeded to eat him. The story was unsettling, creepy and completely true. With such a scary legacy, it is no wonder Edinburgh is considered one of Europe’s most haunted cities. Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:37:40 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/edinburgh-vaults http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/edinburgh-vaults London is a long-standing magnet for talented artists from around Europe and further afield; and the city's Tate Modern is consistently voted among the continent's top modern art galleries. Innovatively housed in the former Bankside Power Station, located along the River Thames' South Bank district, the Tate Modern provides a cavernous, dynamic space for international modern and contemporary exhibitions. The Tate Modern is ideally placed for anyone staying in the old town district (known as the City of London area) where you'll find St Paul's Cathedral, the London Eye and London Bridge. Just take a stroll across the Millennium Bridge and see some great art. Aside from the art, the best draw of all to the Tate Modern is the free admission (apart from some major temporary exhibitions). From Bacon to Dali, Duchamps to Kandinsky, Matisse to Rothko, and Tanguy to Zalensky, the museum has works in its permanent collection from virtually all the greats of the last 100 years. In particular, the Tate Modern has several masterpieces by Picasso and Matisse, as well as one of the world's best collections of Surrealist art, including works by Dali and Magritte. Pollock and Rothko are represented in the gallery's collection of Abstract Expressionist art, while most of Pop Art's best creators (including Andy Warhol) are also well represented. The Tate Modern's permanent collection is displayed in four wings on levels three to five of the museum. Each wing has a central hub based around one of four major themes: Surrealism; Minimalism; Post-War Innovations; and the three linked movements of Cubism, Futurism and Vorticism. If this sounds like a mouthful, there are special audio guides available for both children and adults, with contributions from artists and critics. Furthermore, the gallery's entire collection is catalogued online, and there's also a special multimedia tour available at the Tate Modern website for you to preview your entire visit before you go. The best tactic for the Modern Art newbie is to approach each artwork with your own perspective while giving consideration to what the artist was trying to achieve. Each piece comes with its own description either on the wall or in a gallery handout. Moreover, given that there's so much on display, don't feel any pressure to see every single piece of artwork. Just wander around and see what catches your eye. Chances are you'll come across something interesting at the very least, and maybe you'll find something that will leave you thinking you've seen a truly remarkable creation. Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:01:04 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/tate-modern http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/tate-modern When I was 12-years old, I became fascinated by the Legend of King Arthur after watching Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. While touring Cornwall years later, I heard that Tintagel Castle, on the northwestern coast of the county, was believed to be the birthplace of the legendary King. It was my chance to finally discover the mythical site and live the Legend. Tintagel Castle can be reached by a Land Rover taxi service from the village of Tintagel; but I opted for the coastal footpath. Starting from the impressive thousand-year-old St Materiana’s Church, then passing the slanting Celtic and Christian crosses scattered in the graveyards, I then followed the trail snaking along the cliff. Tintagel Castle was built on Tintagel Head, a rocky headland in the Atlantic Ocean attached to the mainland by a narrow isthmus. The ancient causeway was destroyed by erosion and visitors used a series of steep stairs to access it. The first tourists had not yet arrived and all I could hear was the waves crashing against the cliff one hundred meters below, and the occasional seagull cry which enhanced the feeling of isolation. There is not much left of Tintagel Castle: a doorway opening on a striking ocean view, the crumbling remains of fortifications threatening to collapse onto the cove below, and a maze of knee-high lichen-covered foundation walls. The atmosphere contained something unique and spellbinding. As I walked around the ruins of Tintagel Castle, the morning fog still wrapping the island in its shroud, it was not hard to imagine a long-forgotten world where human beings mingled with fairies and magicians. I thought about young beautiful Igraine hidden in Tintagel fortress by her jealous husband when he realized that his king, Uther Pendragon, wanted her for himself. With Merlin’s help, Uther used a subterfuge to sneak into the castle and seduce the young woman. That night, as the story says, they conceived Arthur, the future king. Under Tintagel Castle at the bottom of the cliff a large opening in the rock marked the entrance to Merlin’s cave where the enchanter spent several years during Arthur’s childhood. I climbed down the rocks to reach the small beach and peeped in. The wind swirling into the open mouth of the cave and the cold gloomy tunnel added to the supernatural aura of the place. I half-expected the famous magician to come out, upset at being disturbed. But as a wave gently came and licked my shoe, I remembered that the cave filled completely with water at high tide and so nobody could possibly find shelter here. Was Arthur only a legend, or did he really exist? The lack of any convincing historical evidence leaves the debate open. But for the inhabitants of Tintagel and many others, there is no doubt that the place had been the setting of historical events at a time when magic was part of everyday life and it was sometimes used to alter destiny. Some villagers swear that the spirit of Merlin still haunts the cave where he used to live. A visit to the atmospheric Tintagel Castle might convince you of that too. Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:20:52 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/tintagel-castle http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/tintagel-castle On the last Tuesday of January, the tiny village of Lerwick bursts into a blazing effigy, filling the dark winter skies with fire and smoke. The event is Up Helly Aa, Europe's largest fire festival and the location is the Shetland Islands - an area considered very remote even by Scottish standards. The Up Helly Aa festival is not to simply provide heat on a cold night; it provides the citizens the opportunity to demonstrate their strong spirit and willingness to carry on tradition. Visitors bathed in light and heat so intense it's hard to believe they are in the wilds of the near-Arctic, appreciate the sense of history and understand the strong ties that the Shetlands have with Norse (Scandinavian) and Viking legends. The Up Helly Aa festival celebrates the arrival of the vikings in the Shetlands over a 1000 years ago, and it has been occurring for over 100 years. The events begin at 7:30 – well after dark in this part of the world come January – when the Guizer Jarl, who is the primary Viking figure in these proceeding, makes his appearance. He will have spent the day visiting schools and hospitals, singing songs and making speeches in preparation for the evenings events. The Guizer Jarl, with his typically long beard and imposing costume, is surrounded by hundreds of men, called guizers, also dressed in various distinct costumes, carrying burning torches. The scene is imposing, as if a land invasion has happened on the island and the players are about to be taken hostage. The squads gather around the Guizer Jarl as he makes one last speech to the huddled crowd. In the middle of them is the Galley, a full-size replica of a Viking warship. The mood intensifies as the squads and the Guizer Jarl begin to sing the traditional Up Hella Aa song. Then, as a single firework dots the sky, a roar fills the air as the torches being carried by the guizers are thrown into the Galley. In a matter of seconds, the entire wooden structure is engulfed into flames, to the amazement of the spectators. A sense of satisfaction fills the eyes of the Guizer Jarl while the guizers shout and jump with glee. However, the festivities are far from over. Following the burning of the Galley, the guizers sing another traditional Viking song, the “Norsemans Home”, before departing to visit the halls. The halls are simply large rooms where guests have gathered to dance and drink the night away. The festive and unique atmosphere of Up Helly is highlighted by visits from the guizer squads, who are required to visit every single hall and dance with the guests. This time-consuming task takes most of the night and continues in to the early hours of the morning of the next day. Thu, 15 Jan 2009 02:10:12 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/up-helly http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/up-helly Enjoy the quiet sounds of summer as you punt along the River Cam. This simple pleasure preserves an old English tradition initially used for cargo transport in Cambridge, it is now used purely for pleasure and the occasional race. This relaxing row will allow you to indulge in some beautiful views of weeping willows along the banks of some the most treasured archeological buildings in England such as the University of Oxford, the oldest english speaking University started in 1249. Punting the Cam River costs about £10, and you can hire this service at any of the following locations Jesus Green , Trinity College, Grantchester, Silver Street bridge, Mill Lane, and Magdalene Bridge. The first two weeks of June offer an even finer experience as exams are finishing warranting some good old fashion fun for all to enjoy such as boat races, balls, and open theater. Thu, 22 May 2008 17:52:10 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/river-cam http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/river-cam One of the dirtiest weekends in sports is held every August in the smallest town in Britain, Llanwrtyd Wells, population 606, and the cause is none other than the Bog Snorkeling World Championships. The racecourse is no more than a trench on the outskirts of Llanwrtyd, roughly 150 feet long and four 4 deep. Each year it draws over 100 participants from all over the world to compete for this coveted quirky championship title. To add to the hilarity, fancy dress and costumes are encouraged and rules govern against using conventional swimming strokes. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:18:09 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/bog-snorkeling http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/bog-snorkeling Erected by Neolithic peoples in Wiltshire, England, Stonehenge is believed to be built over the course 2300 years, and dates back to 2200BC. The entire area around Stonehenge is painstakingly stunning and contains many other sites from the Neolithic period and Bronze age, most notably Stonehenge Cursus, King Barrows Ridge, The Avenue, Woodhenge and Durrington Walls. In total this World Heritage Site is over 2000 hectares.Stonehenge is said to be one of the most impressive archeological sites in Britain, being just on the edge of the Salisbury plain it boasts expanses of beautiful rolling hills and soft valleys that make for excellent stress-free hikes. Stonehenge's original purpose when built was a calendar and center for religious rituals, to this day it is still visited by neo-pagans and druids on Summer and Winter Solstice, as well as Spring and Autumn Equinox. Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:08:17 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/stonehenge http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/stonehenge