Leeds Tourism Guide

By: Karri Madelline

Leeds is a lively city that is full of great cultural and heritage sites, which are great fun to explore. Over 100,000 people come to the city to work in the city centre every single day and 1000s more come to the city to shop, eat out or just to enjoy the variety of attractions Leeds has on offer.

Numerous industries have contributed to Leeds' wealth, but the city is particularly famed for its clothes trade. There are many famous names associated with the city, which include Thomas Chippendale who began making his renowned furniture there, and Michael Marks - of Marks and Spencer - who opened his first Penny Bazaar there in 1884.

As well as this, the city is also home to the historical Kirkgate Market. The market is Europe’s second biggest indoor market after Leicester and is open six days a week. There are more than 400 stalls inside the market and a further 200 outside. It attracts more than 100 thousand visitors per week.

Kirkgate Market first opened in 1822 as an open air market and the first indoor bits were constructed between 1850 and 1875. Unfortunately, most of the structure, except the Vicar Lane frontage, was destroyed in a 1975 fire. The Market was later refurbished in the early 1990s and after this, it was upgraded from a Grade II to a Grade I listed structure.

Frequently known as the ‘Knightsbridge of the North’, Leeds is a great place for shoppers! It has over 1,000 shops, including Harvey Nicholls, Louis Vuitton and many more designer names, scattered around its fashionable high streets, state-of-the-art malls, Victorian arcades, historical buildings and markets.

If you'd prefer to spend your time in Leeds doing more artistic pursuits, you'll be happy to know that the city has 9 wonderful museums & galleries. These include the Leeds City Museum & the fabulous Leeds City Art Gallery, so you are sure to find something to entertain you.

If fast-paced city life gets too much, you'll be happy to know that Leeds has some gorgeous green spaces & stunning parks, including the award winning Millennium Gardens. These gorgeous gardens were constructed at a cost of £12m in order to commemorate the millennium & were jointly funded by Leeds City Council & the Millennium Commission.

Lastly, any tourist passing through Leeds should make sure that they taste its nightlife. With wonderful restaurants, exclusive bars and amazing nightclubs, you will have an unforgettable night there. Needless to say Leeds boasts a major gay community, too. As a result, you will find some fabulous gay bars sprinkled around the Calls area, including the legendary New Penny pub.

After the nightclubs close, why not head to one of the city's deluxe hotels for a fabulous sleep? There's some fantastic hotels in the city, including the Leeds Novotel, so you will be spoilt for choice. If you pick a hotel with breakfast included, you will be able to eat away your hangover, too.

So, whether you are visiting Leeds for a fun night out, a glamorous shopping trip or even an artistic weekend away, you'll be spoilt for choice by the vast range of wonderful things to do. For more info on things to do in Leeds & the areas nearby, just ring the local tourism info board.

Getting to Leeds is simple via car, bus, coach & train. Trains regularly run from Leeds Railway Station, also known as Leeds City, to the middle of London, Southampton, Bournemouth, Plymouth, Birmingham, Leicester, Bristol, Manchester, Liverpool & many other destinations throughout the UK.

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Country thousand smiles !

By: alex smittson

We have a new, mysterious, previously inaccessible country - Cambodia.

After many years of political and social turmoil, the country gained its long-awaited stability and calm. And today - it is one of the most promising tourist regions of Southeast Asia, the attraction of tourists from all over the world. Coming here waiting for the excellent sandy beaches, virgin islands washed by crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand, modern hotels comfortable, friendly locals and, of course, the biggest temple complex in the world - Angkor Wat, the symbol of Cambodia's ancient grandeur.
Tens of thousands of tourists come to get acquainted with the unique monuments of history and culture of this ancient country at different times called Angkorskoy empire, kingdom of Cambodia and the People's Republic of Kampuchea.

The first mention of the Cambodian civilization on earth can be found in the Indian and Chinese chronicles, I related to the millennium of our era. Already I in. State Funan existed here, has experienced a marked cultural and religious influence of India. Its historical monuments preserved in Angkor Borei Pnomda and in the province of Takeo.
Angkor period, during which were built temples of Angkor and Angkor empire became one of the greatest states in Southeast Asia, covering more than 600 years - from 802 to 1432's. This is an entire historical era, unaware periods ups and downs, as well as wars with rivals States, Vietnam, Thailand and Myanmar (Burma).

She opened rule Dzhayavarmana II, which has declared itself "god-king" or "king of the universe, whose divine omnipotence personified Shiva. Place habitat Shiva - mythical Mount Meru, so Dzhayavarman built the "Temple Mount," in Phnom Kulene, simvolizirovavshy sacred peak at the center of the world.

Classic Angkor period - the time when the buildings built, which today pearl any tourist route, passing through the territory of Cambodia - Angkor Wat and the city Angkorthom. Epithet of thought leads to the classic golden age of abundance and unhurried building, but it was also година serious trouble, loud crushing victories and defeats.

One of the greatest monarchs Angkorskoy empire, Suryavarman II, different from predecessors-kings Hindu god Vishnu dedication, which devoted the biggest, and perhaps the most magnificent of all the Angkor temples - Angkor Wat - the eighth wonder of the world, a treasure of world architecture.

Board Suryavarmana II and the construction of Angkor Vata is one of the highest points of the development of the Khmer civilization.

Angkor - is more than a temple, but Cambodia - is more than Angkor. Amazing, unusual nature, mnogokilometrovye sandy beaches bordered shady palm trees, a chance to see with his own eyes listed in the "Red Book" of wild animals, walking freely in Bokorskom National Park, to penetrate the mystery of seven lianas, hidden behind a wall of the ancient jungle towns, enjoy magnificent natural landscapes - all this is only a small fraction of what can give you an ancient Khmer country.

And wherever you were, you will meet throughout belozuboy open smile. Go, and it yourself!

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The Ireland Temptations Revealed

By: Monica Lorica

Ireland is a popular tourist destination. This country offers unrivalled tourist attractions. This is what makes people come back time and again to Ireland. What makes Ireland as popular as it is now among tourists? What is its charisma that makes people want to go back?

Ireland is an 84,412 km land area with a total coastline distance of 3,172. It is considered as the "emerald isle" because of its prominent greens. Its capital city is Dublin, known for its cosmopolitan and chic mood.

Ireland's Tourist Attractions

Ireland is the home of the Irish race. The Irish contributes to the appeal of this country. They are the people who will welcome anyone with a smile. Hospitality and amiability are traits common to the Irish. These people are nurtured by culture and strengthened by history. Their ways are guided by Irish principles that have guided their ancestors.

Ireland offers an exquisite view and experience of nature at its best. There are several gardens to explore. The St. Stephen's Green is one of the most visited garden attractions in Ireland. There are several more nature attractions in Ireland. It is in Ireland where you can take a walk surrounded by the unspoiled beauty of nature.

Ireland is a land of culture and history. This is evident in the many festivals celebrated in this country. Tourists can join in the fun and festive spirit of this country. There are festivals commemorating music and arts, films, children, literature, nature, youth and history. These fares and festivals are proofs to how the Irish revere their rich culture.

There are also several historical sites and heritage castles to visit in Ireland. Tourists can relive the earliest years of this country with the several museums. The national museum of Ireland can be visited in Dublin. There are museums celebrating literature, arts, and even transportation. The old castles, which used to serve as residences or fortresses, now serve as historical tourist attractions.

Staying In Ireland Made Easy

Getting to Ireland is easy with all the transportation modes in this country. There are land, water and air transportations operating in Ireland. Staying in Ireland is also a burden off the shoulders of tourists. There is a wide array of hotels and accommodations in Ireland. These hotels suit any type of budget and needs. They range from economy to luxury.

Indeed, there are countless reasons why tourists simply love Ireland. With all the attractions and complete comfort, there is no better "home away from home" destination than Ireland.


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City tourist information to York

By: Ms Leisha Greenfield

York was once the capital of the country, and boasts a breathtaking history and wealth of restored medieval buildings and streets. The city gave its name to the county in which it resides, and is home to 13,000 people.

But York is much more than a beautiful, ancient city, and is home to a vibrant cafe culture and array of fine dining restaurants. The shopping facilities are plentiful, and there are more independent retailers represented here than in any other modern city in the country. The city even boasts a busy nightlife, with a wide selection of pubs, clubs and live music venues.

York's creative spaces and venues are another good reason to visit, and the art installations housed in St Mary's Church are a unique tourist attraction in themselves.

With dozens of museums, sporting venues and restaurants, hundreds of shops, and quality hotels and B'n'Bs on every street, York attracts thousands of tourists every year and rewards every one of them!

History

The ancient city of York has a more exciting history than any other area of the UK. The city was founded in AD71, and was the site of Constantine the Great's coronation as Roman Emperor. The city's decline in importance during the Industrial Revolution meant that ancient buildings were not raised to make room for factories and mills, and an abundance of medieval structures still exist today.

The Jorvik Museum is one of fifty museums and heritage centres in the city, and explores the Viking history of the area. Viking streets have been reconstructed for an underground tour, and there are masses of archaeological finds and exhibits.

The National Railway Museum, The Castle Museum, The York Dungeon and The Richard III Museum are just some of the others.

The city is also home to the largest Gothic church in the country, a thirteenth century church and numerous other medieval ruins.

Art Galleries

York Art Gallery is home to oil and canvas artwork, watercolours and ceramics from the fourteenth century to the present day. The collection is separated into six themed areas: Morality, Devotion, Places, People, Stories and Modern Aproaches; and there are regular temporary exhibitions.

York St Mary's is a desanctified medieval church that is used to house a different art installation each year. The installations are inspired by the building, and each adds something different to its ambience. The installation for 2007 will explore the relationship between the viewer, the artist and the natural world, and is being developed by Keiko Mukaide.

The Artspace is a studio and art gallery, with new exhibitions every six weeks.

Theatres

The Grand Opera House is an elegant, restored, nineteenth century building, hosting performances of drama, dance, comedy and music. The theatre is said to be the largest in Yorkshire.

The York Theatre Royal seats almost 1000 people and presents a programme of drama, comedy, musicals, live music and stand-up comedy. The theatre is currently being renovated but is still open for business.

Friargate Theatre is home to a Christian theatre company, and regularly showcases small-scale touring productions.

Restaurants

The Biltmore Bar and Grill is located in a desanctified church, serves grills and drinks in its bistro, and traditional dishes on its mezzanine. The interior is modern and chic, and prices are a little above the average.

Rarity offers meat and fish dishes, and a wide selection of red, white and rose wines, champagnes and vintage ports.

The Mogul has received glowing reviews from customers and critics for its Bengali cuisine and warm atmosphere. The restaurant has been trading for fourteen years, and offers a catering service.

For high quality Italian food in traditional, upmarket surroundings, and with a view of York Minster, La Vecchia Scuola is the ideal choice.

Pubs/Bars

York is known for an abundance of pubs, and many are interesting historical buildings. Ye Old Starre Inn has a tenth century cellar and numerous ghost stories. The pub trades in a range of beers and ales, with regularly alternating guest beers.

The Lighthorseman is a bar and 4* B'n'B, which is apparently the single remaining Victorian bar in the city. Real ale, food and bar snacks are available.

CAMRA awarded the eighteenth century, The Blue Bell Inn, an award for its 'outstanding pub interior', including restored nineteenth century fixtures and fittings.

Montey's Rock Café is a rock-themed bar; and Harkers is a nineteenth century ex-bank, popular with young and old professionals.

Nightclubs

The Gallery presents pop and party anthems, hip-hop and r'n'b, soul, funk, indie and rock'n'roll seven nights a week. The club comprises four areas and a food stand.

Ziggy's is the city's main alternative club, and popular with students. Drinks are cheap and the dress code is smart-casual. Music is largely nu-metal, indie and rock, and there are 70s and 80s nights.

Toffs comprises a large, open dancefloor in one room, and a cafe-bar in the other, with York's largest VIP lounge upstairs. Music is mostly chart, party and drum'n'bass.

Fibbers is a cafe, restaurant, bar, nightclub and music shop, with live music every night.

Shopping

York city centre is a pedestrianised network of backstreets, cobbled walkways and medieval streets, lined with curiosity shops and unique stores. Coppergate is the place to find the major high street chains, and Swinegate is home to designer boutiques and restaurants.

Monk's Cross is the city's newest shopping centre, and comprises all the leading retailers, an interactive play feature for children and 1000 free parking spaces. Clifton Moor Shopping Centre is home to 34 stores and 3000 parking spaces.

The McArthur Glen Designer Outlet trades in surplus stock, and designer goods retail at 50-75% of the RRP. Current retailers include Dolce and Gabbana, Paul Smith and Armani.

Sports

Emperors Gym boasts state of the art cardio-vascular equipment and fitness facilities, athletics classes, a large pool and private parking. Thirsk Squash Club and Abbey Leisure Centre are just two more of the city's many sports and leisure centres.

There are three go-karting tracks in the city, but F1 Racing is the only one with indoor facilities. The venue has a capacity of 200 people, a licensed bar and lounge, and TV, pool table and amusements.

Fulford Golf Club is one of nine courses in the city, and has hosted tournaments such as The Benson and Hedges International and the Murphys Cup. The club asks that players are members of clubs affiliated to the Golfers' Union.

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Tourist information on Wakefield

By: Ms Leisha Greenfield

The Wakefield borough comprises more than forty towns and villages, including woodlands and countryside, and the principle city has a population of almost 80,000 people.

The history of the city dates back to the Middle Ages, and much time and care has been devoted to preserving and excavating the city's archaeological treasures. But the numerous museums, heritage centres and historical sites do not detract from the city's vibrant, modern atmosphere.

The thriving nightlife, cultural facilities and top quality restaurants make the city a popular place to visit, and the £100million regeneration plans are sure to further increase tourism to the area.

History

Wakefield has existed since the medieval era, and gained industrial importance from its cloth-dealing industry. Coal mining provided much employment in the area, and Wakefield was hit hard by the closure of the pits during the mid- to late twentieth century.

Caphouse Colliery, the oldest working mine in the country, has since been converted into the National Coal Mining Museum, providing tours several times a day, exhibitions and educational events.

Sandal Castle, immortalised by the rhyme 'The Grand Old Duke of York', is the ruin of the castle at which the Duke of York was defeated during The War of the Roses, and is open to the public today.

Art Galleries

The Wakefield Art Gallery is home to a vast collection of paintings and sculptures, dating from the sixteenth to the twentieth century. Local sculptors, Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth, are well reflected in the gallery's collections. The gallery is close to the city centre and located in a nineteenth century town house.

The Hepworth will replace this gallery in 2008, as it is believed The Wakefield Art Gallery is not able to display the works to their best advantage.

The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is based in 200-year old landscaped gardens, and comprises four exhibition areas, showcasing a variety of sculptures and art installations.

Theatres

The Wakefield Theatre Royal and Opera House comprises three levels and seating for 500 people. The building is Grade II listed Victorian, and retains much of its original dramatic ambience and acoustics. The theatre is incredibly successful, with an annual turnover of £1million, and presents a busy programme of drama, comedy, musicals and lectures. As with many theatres, its most popular production is that of the annual Christmas pantomime.

The Wakefield Cycle is the performance of 32 plays, based on Bible and folk stories, in various locations around the city over 32 days. The 'cycle' is an ancient British tradition, but Wakefield’s is one of only four remaining. No dates have yet been set for 2007.

The Stagecoach Theatre Arts School stage performances twice a year.

Restaurants

The Cow Shed is the sixteenth century, Grade II listed building that inspired Joanne Harris's novel, 'Chocolat'. The restaurant serves contemporary grilled food and offers a choice of indoor and outdoor seating. Catering for up to 60 people is available.

The Kaye Arms serves contemporary British cuisine and snacks, with an extensive, international wine list. The restaurant is family-run and has been trading for forty years.

Rinaldi Ristorante Italiano is an Italian fine dining restaurant, serving traditional Italian cuisine and an extensive choice of specials. Other Italian fine dining restaurants include Valentinos and Bella Roma.

Spice Cottage and Aggrah are popular Indian restaurants that serve quality food at reasonable rates. Thai Kitchen's prices are higher, but its dishes are authentic Thai that have been praised by critics and customers.

Pubs/Bars

The Westgate Run is a 500-yard stretch, that forms a popular (and notorious) pub-crawl.

Harry's Bar is one of twenty on The Westgate Run, voted 'Pub of the Season' in Spring 2006 by CAMRA, and listed in Good Beer Guide.

The Redoubt is another real ale bar, and regarded as the start of 'The Run'. The pub is separated into snugs, lounges and games room, and staff are said to be friendly and welcoming. The Union is another place to start, and serves a wide selection of beers, wines and cocktails.

Escobar is a more upmarket establishment, with higher prices and playing host to live music events and DJs in the evenings. Mex is a reasonably priced cocktail bar, and Pink Lizard is an upmarket cafe-bar.

Nightclubs

Club Ikon is one of the most popular clubs in the city, and offers trance and hard house, including a Ministry of Sound night. There are separate nights for under-18s and over-21s, but the majority of nights are for the 18+ crowd.

Mustang Sally's is a popular student club, presenting cheesy pop and commercial dance. ICE nightclub is also loved by students, and offers techno, tech-trance, hardstyle and house music most nights, and r'n'b, hip-hop and funk on others.

With a capacity of 1400, Club Havana is the largest of the club, bar and lounge complexes in the city. The club is open every night, and presents 70s and 80s retro, soul and funk.

Zeus is the city's most popular gay club, offering chart music and sing-along classics.

Shopping

Wakefield’s markets have been in existence since 1204, and there are currently eight of them. Regular markets trade in food, electricals, new and second-hand clothing, and much more. Specialist markets held at various times throughout the year include a Farmers Market and a Victorian Market. There is a second-hand market on Tuesdays and a Car Boot Sale on Sundays.

The Ridings Shopping Centre comprises 90 stores, including major retailers such as Miss Selfridge and Marks and Spencer. There is a multi-kiosk food court with family entertainment and seating for 300 people, secure parking, and a car hand wash and valet service.

Carlton Lanes Shopping Centre includes 50 stores, a multi-kiosk food court and secure parking.

Sports

The Wakefield Superbowl comprises 28 ten-pin bowling lanes, an amusements area, a cafe and licensed bar; and provides different special offers every day. F1 Indoor Karting is another choice for a family day out, and is open seven days a week.

Knottingley Sports Centre is one of five leisure centres in the city, and comprises a large pool and licensed snack bar. There are athletics and martial arts classes, and fitness facilities. Lightwaves Leisure Centre is larger, and comprises a leisure pool with wave machine and slides, and facilities for badminton, squash and five-a-side football.

Pontefract Golf Centre is an ideal course for beginners and those seeking a more relaxed game. Spring Mill Golf Course offers tuition for children and the more experienced.

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Rotherham tourist guide

By: Ms Leisha Greenfield

Rotherham is a South Yorkshire town with a population of almost 250,000; and it is the principle town in a borough that is 70% rural.

Surrounded by historical villages and woodlands, numerous historical sites and ancient monuments, the town centre is a bustling shopping district, with three recommended restaurants and a superclub. There is an impressive range of sporting and leisure facilities, with exciting days out for the family only a short distance from the interchange.

A significant amount of funding is coming in to Rotherham, and plans to renovate the main market and shopping streets are currently being drawn up. The town is well connected by transport links, and within easy reach of Meadowhall, Sheffield and Doncaster.

History

Rotherham began its transition to a busy market town during the Saxon era; and earned a reputation as a modern and fashionable town with the creation of a college to rival those of Oxbridge. The town's fortunes dipped during the sixteenth century, until coal seams were discovered in the area that provided employment for thousands of men. Steel and iron also provided work, and Templeborough steelworks alone employed 10,000 men.

Clifton Park Museum has been nominated for 'Museum of the Year' on two occasions, and documents the social history of the area. The York and Lancaster Regimental Museum has exhibits from the last 200 years of military history. The Magna Science Adventure Centre is housed in the old Templeborough steelworks, and explores industrial history in the area.

Art Galleries

Rotherham Art Gallery is located in Rotherham Arts Centre and comprises three exhibition spaces. The gallery showcases large and small collections, with space available to hire by local artists and a regularly alternating programme of temporary exhibitions. Included in the permanent collection are Victorian paintings, photographs and Modern Art.

Rotherham College of Art frequently hosts exhibitions of its students' work, and there are numerous art competitions aimed at artists (including young people) who live in and around the area.

Theatres

Rotherham Arts Centre comprises a small, 200-seater theatre that regularly hosts small-scale drama productions of touring shows. Large-scale productions are rarely shown, but previous shows have received critical acclaim and proved popular with theatregoers.

Rotherham Civic Theatre is based in a desanctified church, and has been open since 1960. The theatre stages a programme of professional and amateur shows, with an ever-popular annual Christmas pantomime.

There are a variety of dance and drama schools in the area, and Rotherham Youth Theatre stages regular performances at Rotherham Arts Centre. There is an annual production by Rotherham College of Arts and Technology.

Restaurants

The Crown Restaurant is located inside The Consort Hotel, and serves British and international cuisine; the restaurant is one of three recommended by Good Restaurant Guide. The Regency Restaurant is another; serving modern European dishes, and based in The Carlton Park Hotel. The third is The Swallow Hotel, serving English cuisine at reasonable rates.

Cafe Thai serves authentic Thai dishes and offers a takeaway service. China Town is a restaurant, with takeaway and delivery service.

Cafe Noor is a popular Halal sandwich shop, offering a catering service and takeaway.

Pubs/Bars

Rotherham CAMRA voted The Bluecoat its 'Pub of the Year' in 2006. The bar's prices are low, and a wide selection of drinks offered, with a resident jazz band performing on Monday evenings and other live music throughout the week. Other recommended pubs include Hare and Hounds, Masons Arms and Effingham Arms.

Fubar-Snafu is a pub and live music venue, serving beer, wine and a range of cocktails. The bar hosts live bands, and an annual Battle of the Bands competition. A catering and buffet service is available.

The Sitwell Arms comprises a large restaurant and carvery, comfortable beer garden and children’s play area. The bar is located in a semi-rural area, just outside of the town centre.

Nightclubs

Liquid and Diva is open four nights a week, and presents the latest chart, dance and r'n'b from resident and visiting DJs. The club has been recently refurbished and boasts unique and stylish décor. Clubbers must be over 25 to be admitted into Diva.

Escape Bar and Nightclub comprises three rooms, and presents commercial dance and pop. The club is currently open four nights a week, with plans in the pipeline to make it five. Drinks are cheap and special offers are plentiful.

The Underground Nightclub offers speed garage and funky house four nights a week from four resident DJs and one guest. Entry is free on Friday and Saturday nights.

Club Envy is open four nights a week, and presents pop, dance, retro and r'n'b.

Shopping

Rotherham town centre is home to all the main high street stores, and All Saints Square – a town square surrounded by shops and cafes, with a large BBC screen in the centre. Most of the shopping streets are pedestrianised, and the development of more units for large retailers is planned.

Rotherham is home to five markets; including The Centenary Market, with 88 units, and an outdoor market, with 115. The town centre market comprises 40 stalls. There are more markets in nearby Wath and Rawmarsh.

Parkgate Retail World contains 34 major chain stores and restaurants, and offers free parking. There are antiques and bric a brac retailers located on Parkgate High Street.

Sports

Brampton Leisure Centre is one of more than a dozen in the town, and offers sports and athletics facilities and a fitness studio. There are also a range of activities for families and children throughout the year.

Avago Indoor Carting Centre provides go-karting facilities every day of the week, and offers a licensed bar, family lounge and buffet. The Brampton Raceway is located just outside the town centre and offers motor racing.

Rotherham Superbowl has ten-pin bowling facilities and a fast food restaurant, and is open seven days a week.

Sitwell Park is regarded as one of the best golf courses in the Rotherham, and Lindrick Park is of an international standard. Membership is not required to play on either course.

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Tourist information guide to Manchester

By: Ms Leisha Greenfield

Manchester is world renowned as the first industrialised city in the world, but the city also boasts an important cultural and musical heritage. The city's role in showcasing innovative punk bands in the 70s, and underground music in the 80s, cemented Manchester's reputation as a modern and vibrant area.

The city's nightlife, restaurants and cultural facilities rival those of the capital city, and the shopping facilities are unparalleled. Millions of pounds of regeneration funding have flooded in since the IRA bomb of 1996, and the city developed world-class sporting facilities for the 2002 Commonwealth Games.

Manchester's continued rise in importance is evidenced by the new Beetham Tower, the tallest residential building in the UK, and 'B of the Bang', the tallest sculpture in Britain.

History

Manchester was the first industrialised city in the world. Friedrich Engels wrote his 1844 treaty 'The Condition of the Working Class in England' whilst living in the city; and Elizabeth Gaskell was just one of the enlightenment authors to set novels in Manchester.

The Manchester Museum explores local and national history, and boasts an incredible 6million exhibits. Displays are separated by theme, and these include anthropology, archaeology, botany and zoology.

Other museums include Greater Manchester Police Museum, Imperial War Museum and People's History Museum.

Art Galleries

Manchester Art Gallery is the largest of several galleries in the city, located in a nineteenth century, Grade I listed building and showcasing works by local, national and international artists.

The Whitworth Gallery is home to 31,000 watercolours, prints, drawings, modern art, sculpture and textiles. Displayed items from the permanent collection are regularly alternated, and temporary exhibitions are hosted frequently.

The Castlefield Gallery comprises numerous exhibition spaces, and changes displays regularly. Cornerhouse exhibits contemporary art works in its galleries, and The Centre for the Urban Built Environment explores innovative architectural design.

Theatres

The Manchester Opera House is one of three in the city's theatre complex, and has a capacity of just less than 2000 people. Productions hosted in the venue tend to be large-scale, touring shows, and have included West End shows.

The Palace Theatre is nineteenth century, Grade II listed, and comprises three levels, two balconies and stalls, with seating for 2000 people. The Royal Exchange is also Grade II listed, and specialises in classic theatre, contemporary drama and new writing. The Studio Theatre was opened in 1998 and has a capacity of 120.

The Library Theatre is an intimate venue, in the basement of the central library. Others include The Dancehouse, The Contact Theatre and The Greenroom.

Restaurants

110 Restaurant is a popular, fine dining establishment, located inside a casino and serving British and European cuisine until 1am. The bar and gaming areas are open until 6am and, for legal reasons, children are not permitted inside the building.

Manchester's 'Curry Mile' is known around the country, and is home to more than seventy restaurants and takeaways. Shaandaar, Hanaan and Lal Haweli are popular Indian restaurants on 'the mile', and Saki Turkish Bar and Grill is well loved by locals.

Wong Chu is a traditional Chinese restaurant; and Pan Asia a more upmarket establishment serving Chinese, Japanese, Malaysian, Thai and Vietnamese dishes. Chaophraya comprises a bar and gourmet Thai restaurant, with seating for 120 people.

Pubs/Bars

The Temple is one of 500 pubs in Manchester, but unique in its location inside a converted public toilet. There is a wide selection of real ales, a unisex toilet and a jukebox stocked with the works of Manchester bands.

Cocktail bars in the city include Panacea, with a restaurant and selective door policy that attracts celebrities; Pure Space, also serving tapas and situated above a Northern Soul and funk club; Opus One, inside the 5* Radisson Edwardian Hotel; and Mojo, presenting classic rock from the 50s to the 90s.

Canal Street is home to a variety of lively gay bars. Queer has a 'men only' area and its own in-toilet radio station; Tribeca & Bed is a 'New York Attic' style establishment, with luxurious seating – including full-sized beds; and Churchill's presents karaoke and talent contests in traditional pub surroundings.

Nightclubs

One Central Street is located in the basement of a Grade II listed building, and presents funky house and disco four nights a week. The door policy is selective, and the bar serves a variety of wines, beers and cocktails.

Sankeys is an award-winning deep house, funky house, tribal and break beats club, boasting stylish décor and top of the range sound system.

Essential is Manchester's top gay club, with a strict gay-only door policy and a fashionably kitsch décor that includes spiral staircases and neon lighting. The club is open four nights a week, with live music events on Mondays, and commercial pop and funky house the rest of the week.

5th Avenue is a popular indie club, open six nights a week until 3am. Jilly's Rockworld presents rock, metal and goth music four nights a week, with live music on Wednesdays, and came third in Kerrang!'s 100 top UK club nights.

Shopping

Most of Manchester's plentiful shopping streets are entirely pedestrianised, and some of the walkways are covered. The Shambles and King Street are the places to find designer clothes boutiques; St Ann's Arcade is home to a number of prestigious jewellery, clothes and shoe stores; and Barton Arcade is a shopping and office complex. The Arndale Centre comprises 200 high street shops and several restaurants, with parking for 2000 cars.

Covering an area the size of thirty football pitches, and comprising four separate shopping areas, the Trafford Centre has been dubbed 'a temple to consumerism'. There is parking for 10,000 cars, numerous leisure facilities and a children's play area. There is also a multi-kiosk food hall, including a mini-Chinatown.

Sports

Manchester Aquatics Centre is one of twenty leisure centres in the city, and contains two 50-metre pools, a fitness studio, a workout studio, a health suite and sun beds. There is a full programme of classes and groups, including 'women only' sessions.

The Ten Acres Astro Centre comprises an outdoor Astroturf pitch and sports hall.

The UK's main Olympic cycle track is the Manchester Velodrome, which also contains twelve netball courts, ten badminton courts and a basketball court. Cycling tuition is also available for adults and children.

Manchester Golf Club and The New North Manchester Golf Club are two of fifteen golf courses in the area, and both comprise eighteen holes.

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Tourist city guide to Harrogate

By: Ms Leisha Greenfield

Harrogate is a North Yorkshire town, with a population of 85,000 people. The town became a fashionable spa town in the sixteenth century, attracting masses of tourism and industry, and many still visit today for the spa baths and historical sights. Other than monuments and museums set up to explore and educate about the town's industrial history, there are numerous castles and historical battlegrounds that make interesting historical visits.

Harrogate is home to 33 restaurants recommended by The Good Restaurant Guide, and an array of bistros, wine bars and upmarket pubs. There are also a variety of nightclubs and club nights, making for a busy nightlife in the town centre. Shopping facilities are plentiful, with much of them inside the town and not located in out-of-the-way shopping malls. Much of the town centre is old and elegant, with much to see and do.

History

The history of Harrogate dates back to the Roman period, when farming hamlets were located on the site. A farming and textile industry was flourishing by the twelfth century, but the spring that was discovered in the sixteenth century triggered the area's development into a fashionable, thriving spa town. More wells were discovered later, and the original still stands in the town centre.

The Royal Pump Room Museum contains exhibits exploring the area's history as a spa town, and comprises a reproduced sixteenth century town for visitors to wander around. Knaresborough is home to a medieval castle museum, and the cave once lived in by a twelfth century hermit and 'holy man'.

Art Galleries

Mercer Art Gallery is home to more than 2000 nineteenth and twentieth century pieces of fine art, photography, sculpture and craft works, and comprises two separate galleries. The gallery regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and art events.

The Gasgoine Gallery is an impressive private collection, including works by Picasso and Salvador Dali, and a large selection of glass works. New exhibitions are displayed every three works and all items are for sale.

The SMART Gallery exhibits and sells original art, sculptures and ceramics; and McTague Gallery trades in watercolours, oil paintings, twentieth-century prints, and genre and decorative prints.

Theatres

Harrogate is home to a civic theatre, numerous performance spaces and the most successful youth theatre in the country.

The Harrogate Theatre is a Grade II listed building, opened in 1900, and comprising two auditoria. Performances include large-scale touring productions, one-night entertainments and 5 of its own in-house productions; and there are films shown on Monday evenings.

Harrogate International Centre is an office complex, conferencing facility, hotel, exhibition hall and theatre, hosting a range of events and entertainment, including concerts, drama and festivals, with seating for more than 2000 people.

Restaurants

The Courtyard Restaurant serves contemporary British cuisine, and holds an AA rosette. The restaurant is located in former livery stables, and offers a choice of indoor and outdoor seating. Sasso is a fine dining Italian restaurant, and another of the 33 restaurants currently recommended by Good Restaurant Guide.

Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and Restaurant serves classic and unique seafood dishes in lavish surroundings, with a wine list comprising wines and champagnes hand picked from French vineyards.

Harrogate’s branch of Wing Wah, serving traditional Far Eastern cuisine, has two themed levels; the bright and contemporary 'Modern Tranquil Room' on the ground, and the oriental-influenced 'Traditional Blossom Room' upstairs.

Pubs/Bars

The Lounge is the bar in the Carringtons bar, restaurant and nightclub complex, and is stylish and upmarket, but relaxed and comfortable. There is a wide drinks selection and live evening entertainment.

The William and Victoria Restaurant and Wine Bar has a bar downstairs, serving drinks from an extensive wine list, in traditional, wood fixtured surroundings.

Montpellier Parade is home to Blues Bar, a pub and live blues music venue, Hedley's Wine and Food Bar, Montpellier and The Slug and Lettuce.

Harrogate and Ripon CAMRA recommend numerous pubs in the area, and voted The Spite Inn 'Pub of the Season' in Winter 2006.

Nightclubs

The nightclub in Carringtons bar, restaurant and nightclub complex presents 70s and 80s chart music four nights a week, and attracts a young professional clientele. The club hosts the popular 'Heaven and Hell' on Wednesdays, and has a capacity of 600 people.

Club XS is an indie/alternative club, open three nights a week and offering indie rock, 'cheese', metal, punk and emo. The club has a capacity of 300 people.

Ministry of Sound Minibar is separated into four themed zones, with unusual and stylish décor and state of the art sound and lighting equipment. The club is open from Thursday to Saturday, and licensed until 4am.

Shopping

Harrogate town centre is home to more than 20 antiques retailers, and all the major high street and department stores located within a short walk of each other on Cambridge Street and Parliament Street.

Close by is The Victoria Gardens Shopping Centre, comprising 4 levels and more than 30 stores. Retailers currently based in the units include Bay Trading, La Senza and WHSmith; there are also a number of cafes and coffee bars.

Lightwater Valley Theme Park and Shopping Village is located in Ripon, and is home to eight stores and a restaurant.

Sports

The Hydro is one of four leisure centres, and comprises 3 pools, a fitness centre, a crèche and a café. There is also a gym with state of the art fitness equipment. Knaresborough Pool is a popular choice for families, with its hot water bubble pool, water flume and large shallow section.

The National Centre for Combat Martial Arts is a training gym and teaching centre, offering a choice of group and individual tuition. Martial arts range from Kung Fu, Kickboxing, Tai Chi, Chi Kung and Yoga.

Ripon Sailing Club offers racing, tuition and relaxing breaks on its 20-acre lake, and boats are available for private hire on weekends.

The Harrogate Golf Club was established in the nineteenth century and offers a challenging game of golf on its 6250-yard course. Oakdale is slightly larger, at 6456-yards.

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Tourist city guide to Birmingham

By: Ms Leisha Greenfield

Birmingham's history stretches back to the sixth century, but is currently Europe's newest city. The second largest city in England, Birmingham is home to more than a million people and continues to expand on its success.

The city has much to offer visitors seeking quiet evenings out, lively nightlife, breathtaking history and cultural entertainment, and is located close enough to picturesque countryside to offer the best of city and rural life.

Birmingham has been dubbed 'the shopping capital' of the country, and with over 1000 retailers in the city centre alone, this title is certainly deserved. There are more than a dozen shopping centres in the city, demonstrating the city's continued growth and power to attract visitors.

History

Birmingham's history is documented back to the sixth century, when a supply of water, coal and iron were discovered in the area. Birmingham developed rapidly, and was already regarded as one of the important manufacturing areas in England by the start of the Industrial Revolution.

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is home to an incredible collection of art works and artefacts, documenting 400,000 years of history. The city's other museums include Blakesley Hall, a converted sixteenth century manor house.

Other important historical buildings include Weoley Castle, a thirteenth century manor house; The Old Crown, a fifteenth century pub; the thirteenth century St Martin's Church; and the Grade I listed nineteenth century Town Hall.

Art Galleries

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is home to the largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite works in the world, as well as fine and applied art works by the Old Masters and Impressionists. A free bus links the gallery to the city centre.

Birmingham's arts and media quarter is named after the factories that once occupied the five-acre site: The Custard Factory. As well as numerous other media companies, creative enterprises and cafes, The Custard Factory is home to a number of small art galleries showcasing a variety of works.

The Ikon Gallery is a unique collection of multimedia art works, comprising sound, film, photography and art installations.

Theatres

Of Birmingham's twelve theatres, Birmingham Hippodrome is the largest and the theatre with the greatest regular attendance of any theatre outside of London. Large-scale productions, including drama, comedy and dance, are regularly staged here.

The Alexandra Theatre is based in an impressive Victorian building, and stages a variety of large-scale productions. The theatre has been particularly praised for its musicals and concerts.

The Old Rep Theatre is located on the same street, and presents small-scale performances. Other small venues include The Crescent Theatre, Birmingham Library Theatre, and Midlands Art Centre.

Restaurants

Brasserie Blanc is one of eleven restaurants recommended in Good Food Guide, and serves traditional French cuisine in stylish surroundings with seating for 160 people. Jessica's serves French-influenced modern British dishes, and has a Michelin star and AA recommendation.

Birmingham is famous for it's curry houses and has been dubbed 'the capital of balti', owing to its array of Balti houses and Indian restaurants, and one corner of the city centre is known as 'the Balti Triangle'. Al Faisals is a popular Kashmiri restaurant in the Balti Triangle, with seating for 600 people. The Diwan restaurant is another highly regarded establishment in the area.

Good Food Guide also recommends the Cantonese, AA rosette holding, Chung Ying Garden. The menu comprises 400 dishes, and there is seating for 400 people.

Pubs/Bars

Birmingham CAMRA recommends 16 pubs in the city, and voted The Wellington 'Pub of the Year' in 2005 and 2006 for its selection of 2500 different ales.

The Old Inn is a fourteenth century, Grade II listed pub, located in the city centre and reputed to have once been owned by King Henry VIII.

Popular cocktail bars include The Living Room, with a relaxed and yet prestigious ambience and live music, and Zinc Bar, with waitress service and a DJ area downstairs.

The S'oak is a pre-club bar; offering pub quizzes, live acoustic and jazz nights and all the pay-per-view football matches. Located close to the university campus, this bar is very popular with students.

Nightclubs

Subway City comprises 7 rooms, 5 bars, 3 dancefloors and a snack bar, and presents the best in underground dance music. The club is open seven days a week, and licensed until 8am on Saturdays.

Air nightclub is regarded as one of the most technologically advanced in the country, presents trance, techno, hard dance and house, and regularly hosts Godskitchen. The club comprises 3 rooms, with a total capacity of 1650.

Carling Academy is the city's most successful alternative club and music venue, presenting music from break beats and hip-hop to Northern Soul and indie. The club hosts Subculture on Saturdays, the rock night voted second best in the country by Kerrang! readers.

Birmingham has a vibrant gay party scene, and The Nightingale is one of the most popular venues. The club is open six nights a week, with a varied programme of music, comedy and karaoke.

Shopping

Europe's largest city centre shopping development is the Bullring in Birmingham. The centre comprises more than 150 shops and 25 restaurants over three floors. The Selfridges building that stands at the centre, beside the medieval St Martin's Church, has won an award for its impressive design.

The shopping development also comprises markets of 235 stalls and units. Other markets in the city include the Open Market, the Rag Market, the Indoor Market, the Antiques Market and the Farmers Market.

Star City is a shopping and entertainment development, comprising a 37-screen cinema, the UK's largest casino, a Megabowl, 3000 free parking spaces and hundreds of shops and retail outlets.

Sports

Of the city's forty leisure centres, Wyndley Leisure Centre is the largest. The centre comprises a 33-metre pool, a teaching pool and a range of diving boards, as well as a 400-metre athletics track, squash and badminton courts, and more. The centre is currently closed for refurbishment and will reopen in June 2007.

The Ackers is a 70-acre outdoor activities centre, offering snowboarding, climbing, canoeing and archery, alongside a variety of courses and special events for companies, individuals and families. Many use the centre for sponsored abseiling.

Birmingham is home to half a dozen golf courses, managed by Birmingham Golf Link Circuit.

Harborne Church Farm is the largest; a notoriously difficult 9-hole course, with a shop, cafe and parking for 50. Boldmere Golf Course comprises 18 holes, but makes for a much more relaxing game.

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Tourist information guide to Halifax

By: Ms Leisha Greenfield

Halifax is set into rich countryside and home to 82,000 people. With a history dating back to the twelfth century, the town is rich in history and offers one of the most unique and popular museums in the country.

With a vast selection of theatres, performance spaces and art galleries, the town forms a cultural centre of the north and offers much for a quiet weekend away. Its busy nightlife, and variety of bars, makes for a vibrant nightlife; and there are numerous recommended restaurants to choose from.

The town is well connected by transport links and offers plenty of reasons to visit!

History

Halifax is steeped in history and has been a unified parish since the twelfth century. The area became involved in woollen manufacture, and this increased the population by 25 times between the fifteenth and sixteenth century. By the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, manufacture in the area had branched out into other types of textile materials.

The Piece Hall was built in the eighteenth century as a market for trading textiles, and remains an important work of architecture in the region. Bankfield Museum and Art Gallery comprises 10 galleries and explores the region's manufacturing history.

Eureka! is Halifax's most famous museum, and an exploration of science and technology for children. The museum comprises 400 interactive displays and exhibits, documenting human biology, scientific development, ecology and the world of work.

Art Galleries

Halifax's main art collection is housed in the Visitors Centre and Art Gallery in the Piece Hall, and comprises works of art, craft, photography and design, with a new emphasis on crafts. The gallery covers a number of open-plan units, allowing browsers to savour the works individually.

Halifax's Bankfield Museum and Art Gallery comprises 10 galleries, and focuses on textiles and contemporary craft works that document the area's manufacturing history. Galleries include 'World of Textiles', 'Edith Durham Gallery' and 'The Toy Gallery'.

The Dean Clough Gallery is home to 600 art and design exhibits, and comprises The Viaduct Gallery, The Design House Gallery, the Crossley Gallery, the Link Gallery and a number of seminar galleries on the upper floor.

Theatres

The Victoria Theatre stages around 165 productions each year, and seats 3500 people. Previous and upcoming performances include comedies, musicals and dance productions. The theatre bar has seating for 120 people.

The Square Chapel Arts Centre is a painstakingly renovated eighteenth century building, staging drama, children’s theatre, dance, musicals, community drama and various lectures and talks throughout the year.

The Viaduct Theatre specialises is small-scale productions, and The Playhouse has seating for 260 people.

Restaurants

The Millbank is just one of Halifax's highly rated fine dining restaurants, and has been honoured with a Michelin star and recommendations by Good Food Guide, The Independent and The Times. The menu comprises contemporary European cuisine with 'a Yorkshire touch' and an extensive wine list.

The Bore is close by, serving classic British dishes, and is also highly rated.

Meena’s offers Balti, Tandoori and Bengali cuisine in a traditional setting, and is extremely popular with locals. Open late and situated in the town centre, the restaurant is also popular with post-party clubbers.

El Gato Negro Tapas Bar serves classic and contemporary tapas dishes and a variety of wines.

Pubs/Bars

Halifax and Calderdale CAMRA awarded The Fox and Goose 'Pub of the Year' in 2006, and also rates The Shears Inn, with has been recommended in 10 consecutive editions of Good Beer Guide.

Bar 15 is a bar and club, with seating for 200 and showcasing rock and alternative bands on Friday and Saturday nights. The bar is also known as 'The Rockshack' and has a resident classic rock DJ who plays regularly.

The Standard of Freedom and William IV are popular, traditional bars, with long histories and loved by locals.

Nightclubs

Although there aren't a huge number of nightclubs in Halifax, there are a few very popular venues and Coliseum and Maine Street is the most popular. The club presents dance, r'n'b and party tunes, and opens three nights a week.

The Tube is a house music venue, open Friday and Saturday nights. The décor is impressive, 70s-influenced designer kitsch, with state of the art lighting and sound technology, plush seating and a VIP lounge.

Acapulco presents mainstream dance and house music three nights a week, and is affectionately known as 'Acca'. The club is renowned for its exceptionally cheap drinks and special offers.

The Tramshed Zoo Bar is a rock club, currently closed for a license review.

Shopping

The Piece Hall is Halifax's most popular shopping area, comprising 50 independent retail units and a large market square. A fleamarket is held on Thursdays, and an open market on Saturdays. Specialist markets include a Christmas Market and continental markets.

Close by is The Woolshops Shopping Centre, home to more than 80 high street shops and 300 parking spaces. Units are currently occupied by River Island, HMV, Miss Selfridge, 2 coffee shops and a cafe.

The Halifax borough market is located in a Grade II listed, nineteenth century building, and comprises almost 200 stalls.

The main shopping street in the town is The Market Arcade; lined with charity shops, high street stores and cafes.

Sports

The North Bridge Leisure Centre is one of eight in the town, and offers an extensive programme of sports, athletics, aerobics and martial arts. There is a large sports hall and Projectile Gallery, a gym and Ofsted-registered creche.

Another popular leisure centre is Halifax Swimming Pool, comprising a 25-metre pool, fitness studio, dance studio, 2 squash courts and a multimedia multi-sensory room.

The Halifax Ski and Snowboarding Centre is based in the Sportsman Inn and Leisure Complex and offers a choice of slopes for beginners and the more experienced, with a range of tuition available to suit all abilities.

There are 10 golf courses in Halifax, including the notoriously difficult, 18-hole Halifax Golf Club that offers a challenge to the most experienced of players. The Halifax Bradley Hall Golf Club is also an 18-hole course, but is smaller and offers a more relaxing game.

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