From the wind-swept moors to the Scottish highlands, the United Kingdom is a diverse land - both in culture and geography. You'll discover quaint villages, castles, museums, galleries and much more.



If you are planning a trip to England, Scotland and Wales, it is best to create a list of what you would like to do and see. Fitting in everything can be difficult, and it's usually best to focus on your favorites and spend quality time exploring those areas rather than rush around from spot to spot. You might start in London and then explore nearby Kent and Sussex, enjoying all the attractions of the city, as well as castles and quaint villages. Another option is to spend your time exploring Wales, a country often passed by, yet full of promising possibilities. Or perhaps you want to explore Scotland with time to enjoy Edinburgh, "The Whisky Trail," and hope for a glimpse of the famous Loch Ness.

Distinguished travel writer Karen Brown has spent a great deal of time exploring the United Kingdom, and has created a variety of travel itineraries for visitors to England, Scotland and Wales. These treks, detailed on her popular website - Karen Brown's World of Travel, include maps and both popular and unique attractions. Her readers also have voted and selected the following lodgings as the best in the region:

These three countries are a romantic land -- a land of inspiration for a myriad of famous poets and writers. If it is romance you want, try the Gilpin Lodge, which was chosen by Karen Brown readers as England, Wales and Scotland's "Most Romantic" lodging choice. Located in England's Lake District National Park, the inn rests on 20 acres of gardens, woods and moors. The rooms are elegant, and each has been decorated individually. Every room offers a charming view of the gardens or moors. Spa treatments, such as massage with aromatherapy oils, can be arranged in the privacy of your room. Guests also enjoy privileges at a local "leisure club," which has a pool, sauna, steam room and fully equipped gym. Four rooms comprise the award-winning restaurant's dining areas. There is also a bar and afternoon tea is served in the lounge.

Salisbury, where four river valleys convene, is a charming English town offering a spectacular cathedral that dates to 1220 and a 14th-century pub, and close access to Stonehenge. A stay at Bolhays is the jewel in the crown for visitors to this city. Voted as England, Wales and Scotland's inn that offers the "Warmest Welcome," by Karen Brown readers, the inn is located in an 1899 Victorian townhouse. The grand Salisbury Cathedral is a 10-minute walk from this English bed and breakfast. The guest rooms are decorated in perfect English country style. The innkeepers, a pair of warm and friendly sisters, are filled with knowledge about the area. You are sure to find them a useful resource.

Bath, a popular destination and the only city in England named a World Historic Site in its entirety, is home to Meadowland, an appealing bed and breakfast that was named by Karen Brown readers as offering the region's "Greatest Value." The three guest rooms of the bed and breakfast are elegant and inviting. Innkeeper, Catherine Andrew, prepares a wonderful homemade breakfast, sometimes including traditional specialties from her native Scotland. The center of Bath is a 15- to 20-minute walk away, and from Meadowland one can plan plenty of interesting day trips, such as visits to the cathedral cities of Wells and Salisbury or perhaps Blaise Castle.

Set on more than 100 acres in Hampshire, Chewton Glen offers all the amenities of a top resort with all the historic ambiance of a proper English country estate. Guest rooms and suites are individually decorated in a variety of styles from contemporary to romantic English country. The Marryat Suite is particularly captivating with its posh sitting area, fireplace and elegant furnishings. The Masterman Ready Suite is another opulent option featuring modern dcor and a clawfoot, soaking tub. Afternoon tea includes the hotel's own blend of tea, as well as a selection of fine sweets and savories. Dinner and lunch at the restaurant feature ever-changing seasonal menus with items such as fillet of Scottish beef or line-caught sea bass. This posh country inn was named as the region's top "Splendid Splurge" by Karen Brown readers.