Lecture 11. Districts and cities in the UK

Birmingham is one of Britain's most exciting modern cities. Described as "a butterfly emerging from a concrete chrysalis " it has been given a thorough make­over by a team of award-winning architects. Gone is the dreary urban landscape and concrete carbuncles, in their place are futuristic shopping centres, leafy open spaces and fashionable canal side developments. Britain's most maligned city is sexing itself up!

World War II left Birmingham devastated and destroyed much of its historic centre. For years the city's biggest claim to fame was the invention of the 'balti an exceedingly spicy faux Indian dish. Now a massive regeneration project has exposed the diverse and dynamic character of the city, the former US President Bill Clintonto label it "an extraordinary jewel of a city. "

Birmingham bustles with cosmopolitan energy and has a long history of invention and integration. One of the few buildings spared by WW IIis the Italiante Council House, which boasts a domed facade and an intricate doortop mosaic depicting industry and municipality. Enjoy the view over the city's most attractive areas including the newly-modelled and pedestrianised Victoria Square.

Once you've got your bearings take a cultural stroll around some of the city's

glittering art galleries. The Museums and Art Galleryhouses the world's finest collection of pre-Raphaelite art, while the Ikon Gallery'soutstanding modern art works will thrill and enthrall. Another up and coming artistic attraction is the Barber Institute of Fine Arts. While away an afternoon exploring their diverse mixture of drawings, paintings and sculpture from the 13th to the 20th centuriesincluding pieces by Rubens, Turner, Gainsborough, Monet and Van Gogh.

Birmingham is also a Mecca for chocoholics and no visit to the city would be complete without a stop-off at Cadbury World. Stuff yourself with samples as they come fresh off the conveyor belt, learn the history of chocolate and visit nearby Bourneville village, one of the world's first garden suburbs.

Other major attractions range from the IMAX to the country's largest inland aquarium, the National Sea Life Centre, to the city's latest innovation, Think-tank - Birmingham's Museum of Science and Discovery. If the weather is fine then a visit to the lush botanical gardens is a must and the perfect place to escape the city buzz.

At night the city comes alive as crowds fill the plethora of bars, restaurants, nightclubs and canal side cafes. Birmingham boasts an exciting programme of events and summer is a particularly busy time with celebrations ranging from the Lord Mayor's Paradeto a firework extravaganza that lights up the entire city and is a true wonder to behold.

A visit to Birminghamis not complete without a

day trip to nearby Stratford—upon-Avon, Shakespearecountry and one of the

most picturesque parts of the English countryside. Birminghamin the twenty-first century is a cosmopolitan city brimming with life and cultural energy. Further developments are planned and it is determined to compete with Northern giants such as Manchesterand of course the capital for the title of best British city.

Brighton

Brighton is possibly Britain's trendiest town. From the exotic Royal Pavilionto the fashionable clubs, stylish clothes shops, bohemian coffee shops, historic piers and thriving markets and a vibrant gay scene - Brighton has it all. This is tourism at its most serious and fun. Brighton and its western extension Hove offer a twin-bill of holiday pleasures, making a lively and cosmopolitan resort, the place is constantly changing.

The city's eccentric character is reflected most prominently in the Royal Pavilion. Built in the early 1800' s as a seaside residence for George, Prince of Wales, the Prince Regent. He employed his favourite architect John Nashto take an old farmhouse and turn it into a feast of Indian, Chinese and Gothic forms. Drawing on the Taj Mahalas inspiration, Nash created a wonderful Pavilion of endless pagodas, balconies and decorative figures.

The dramatic Banqueting Roomcaptures the spirit of the royals at play, while the more restrained private rooms shows the splendour in which they reclined and rested. Queen Victoriawas overwhelmed by the richness of the place, preferring the more modest surroundings of Osbornein the Isle of Wight and gifted it to the people of Brighton.

Delve deeper into the city's past with by exploring the maze of narrow streets behind the Pavillion. Christened the Laines, these cobbled alleyways are lined with a mix of jewellery, antique and vintage fashion shops filled with hidden treasures. Stop off at the famous fudge shop which features a dazzling array of classic and exotic flavours and indulge your tastebuds.

The North Laines have a livelier atmosphere and are heaving with off-beat clothes and furniture shops interspersed with stylish bars and pubs which are

regularly overflowing with arty students and creative townsfolk. Popular hotspots include The Squid and Starfish i n Middle Street.

Palace Pieris Brighton's most famous landmark and is visited by 3.5 millionpeople each

year. This cast-iron seaside favourite juts imposingly |out into the sea, offering traditional saucy seaside entertainment in the shape of funfairs, fish and chips, candyfloss and casinos. Facing it is the historic West Pier. Built in 1866it is the UK's finest seaside pier and the only one to be Grade 1 listed. Closed since 1975,it has survived the ravages of the elements and a recent destructive fire and is on the brink of a major redevelopment and will remain an essential part of the city's famous seafront.

Between the two piers runs the new Riviera style beachfront area. Nestling under small Victorian arches lies the Artists' Quarterwhich houses twenty studio spaces. Further down fishermen bustle about mending nets and selling fresh fish in their own quarter, which also boasts an award-winning Fishing Museum. The new performance arena, the Ellipse,is the place to watch free theatre, music and dance events. Behind the area, elegant Regency squares and terraces look out over the picturesque promenade.

Brighton and Hove is one of Britain's creative centres and is bursting with a vast selection of galleries, theaters and art centres celebrating different aspects of high and contemporary culture. Visit the Gardener Arts Centrelocated on the leafy Sussex Universitycampus which hosts an eclectic programme of visual arts, films, comedy, music and workshops. The Komedia Theatreand cafe is a great place to catch some comedy, take in a show or just drink people and soak up the sights and sounds of this remarkable city.

A vibrant clubbing and music scene draws in clubbers from London and from the Continent. By night the seafront transforms from a family-friendly arena into a seething mass of trendy young things intent on a night of abandon in local hotspots such as the legendary Beachand Zapclubs.

Brighton and Hove is one of the most vibrant and visitor-friendly seaside resorts in Britain. It combines a strong historical tradition with strong artistic energy and a pulsating party vibe. It's fun for the whole family, but it may be worth noting that three quarters of the visitors staying overnight come without children.

Cardiff

Cardiff is the jewel in the Welsh crown. Known as Europe's youngest capital it buzzes with youthful energy and is one of Britain's most cosmopolitan cities. With massive redevelopment projects dominating the skyline and the city established as the seat of the new Welsh National Assembly,Cardiff is on an upwards curve and now is the time to visit.

Set against a seaside backdrop, Cardiff was once an industrial powerhouse, exporting vast amounts of coal and steel from the huge plants in South Wales. When these industries waned towards the end of the twentieth century the city's economic

prospects seemed bleak. But a winning combination of government intervention and European Union encouragement has wooed employers to the city and successfully filled the economic void. A statistic that illustrates this massive growth rate is that available hotel bed spaces have increased by over 40% in the past five years.

Only named the capital in 1955Cardiff benefits from a friendly, small town vibe which makes it a very pleasant and relaxing place to visit. The historic castle forms the city's centrepiece and is surrounded by seven charming Victorian shopping arcades filled with a mixture of high street stores and local gems. Castle Welsh Crafts lies directly opposite the Castle and is the ideal place to pick up some jewellery crafted from famous Welsh gold.

Unlock the history of the city and its people at the National Museum and Gallerywhich features ancient Celtic artifacts and important art and silver collections focusing strongly on the works of Welsh artists. Your next stop off has to be the incredible open-air Museum of Welsh Life at St Fagans. Set amid lush parkland that opens onto a 16 century mansion it was recently voted one of the best museums in Europe.

Cardiff Bay is fast gaining a reputation as the city's glamour hotspot with a wealth of restaurants, bars, nightclubs and swanky accommodation developments springing up everywhere. Celebrities such as Charlotte Churchhave made their homes there and the area buzzes at all hours of the night and day. The lack of integration between the Bay and the centre creates a separate town feel and boosts the exclusive vibe of the area.

Add a cultural edge to your visit at the city's prime concert venue, St David's Hall. Home to the BBC National Orchestra of Walesit offers a superb programme of classical and contemporary concerts and is wonderfully festive at Christmas. The Welsh National Operais on the brink of being re-housed at the shiny new Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay when it opens in November 2004.

After a hard day's sightseeing change into your glad-rags for a night exploring Cardiff s lively nightlife, with over 300 pubs to choose from there is something to

suit all tastes. Line your stomach with a fantastic meal at one of the city's many fine restaurants and then dance it all off on the dancefloor of such notable clubs as Clwb Ifor Bach which is famed for its Friday drum and bass nights. A trip to Cardiff is guaranteed to be diwrnodl'r Brenin (truly memorable).

Glasgow

Edinburgh may be the capital but Glasgow is the most Scottish of cities. One of Europe's most vital cultural centres, it combines a Celtic friendliness with amazing museums, stylish shops, concert halls and a vibrant nightlife. The cityscape is defined by a chaotic mix of art nouveau masterpieces by design guru Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Victorian edifices and many stunning contemporary buildings.

Glasgow, meaning 'dear green place'is actually Scotland's biggest city, with a population of almost 612,000. The city has garnered many accolades including the prestigious titles of European City of Culture 1990, UK City of Architecture and Design 1999 and the European Capital of Sport 2003. Once the Empire's second city and an industrial powerhouse it has carved out a new cultural identity within Europe.

Attractions are spread out over the city which follows a grid plan on the northbank of the River Clyde. The city's art collections are among the best in Europe and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is the most visited museum in the UK outside London and Glasgow's most loved building. It will reopen after a massive refurbishment programme in December 2005 and houses a collection of international significance.

The Burrell Collection was presented to the city in 1944 by millionaire ship owner Sir William Burrell who amassed this eclectic mix of prints, artifacts and objets d'art over the course of his life. Some exhibits are even built into the fabric of the gallery helping to display ancient stonework and stained glass windows in their full splendour.

Immerse yourself in Glasgow's historic past with a visit to the Tenement House. Scotland's National Trust have lovingly preserved this tiny apartment which gives an insight into middle class city life in the late 19th/ early 20th centuries, recreating the life of a family who lived here for over 50 years.

Delve further into the fascinating history of this diverse city at the People's Palace which relates the story of Glasgow from 1175 to the present day. The rise of the tobacco lords, the plight of the poor, temperance and women's suffragette movements are all vividly re-told through photographs, drawings and film. On sunny days visitors can also enjoy a stroll through lush tropical vegetation in the elegant Winter Gardens.

Another symbol of Glasgow's past is the Tall Ship at Glasgow Harbour.

The on-board display tells the tale of this mighty vessel's past voyages-and evokes the flavour of the industry that once brought the city so much wealth and prosperity.

Glasgow is a shopaholic's dream with stylish shops to satisfy even the most discerning of tastes. As Britain's second largest retail centre after London it is bursting with exclusive boutiques, designer names and up-market shopping malls. Bargain hunters can happily while away an afternoon at the colourful Barras Street Market in the East End of the city centre. The name derives from bygone days when goods were sold out of barrows. The whole area buzzes with energy and stalls offer a dazzling array of goods from cheap clothes, CD's, to second­hand junk. Antique-hunters should head for the mews and lanes of the city's bohemian west end which are a treasure trove of rare books, jewellery and crafts.

Eating out in Glasgow is a special experience. Feast on delicacies from all corners of the globe and catch up on the latest culinary trends with a meal in one of the West End's uber-cool restaurants and brasseries such as the newly opened Otagoin Kelvinbridge. Those seeking traditional Scottish fare will enjoy the respected Sutherlands restaurant on Sauchiehall Street. For a slice of succulent Scottish sirloin and the freshest local seafood try Bouzy Rouge’s 71 Renfield Street.

The city seethes with energy at night and the countless nightclubs, bars and restaurants are habitually rammed

with trendy young Glaswegians. The only problem is choosing where to go! The scene is constantly changing but nightspots worth checking out are the Sub Club on Jamaica Street or the massive Shed club in the city's southside. The Merchant City area is also seething with stylish bars, cafes and clubs where locals come to see and be seen.

Glasgow is one of Britain's biggest party cities and hosts a variety of exciting arts festivals including Glasgay in November which is the UK's largest gay arts festival and Celtic Connections which celebrates Scottishness in all forms from choral performances to Celtic rock, traditional pipe bands and ceillidhs (traditional music and dance parties).

For years Glasgow was only famous for its thick brogue, unhealthy diet and rivalry with Edinburgh which has a far more middle class ethos. In the new millennium it is setting the pace as one of Britain's most hip and vibrant cities with a distinctly Celtic feel that pervade all aspects of life.

London

There were people living on the banks of the Thameslong before the Roman invasion of 43 AD, but it was their arrival which transformed Londoninto a majortrading centre. Since then, despite disasters such as the Plague ,- the Great Fireand the Blitz,subsequent i nvasionsand conquestsby the Saxons, Vikingsand Normans, London has continued to expandat an exponential rate in-terms of population, economics, diversity and culture.

Visitors will be immediately struck by the sheer enormityof the city. Only from the dramatic peakof Hampstead's Parliament Hillor from one of the London Eye's transparent podsis it possible to grasp quite how far and wide the city stretches. Eight million peoplenow live in what is - by a long way -Europe'slargest metropolis. Because of this, visitors can't expect to get to know the city well - those of us who live here are still lost, when lured away from our usual stomping grounds - but they can expect to feel at homein the city, thanks to the sheer diversityand wealthof opportunitiesand attractions.From the City ofLondon- the original Roman settlementand now one of the world's foremost financial centres— the capital has expandedrampantly, swallowing up countless smaller towns on its endless journeyoutwards. Many of these towns still retain a distinct identity, which is what gives London so many unique facets. From the bustlingstreets of the West End, through the subversive sensationalismof Soho, down to the Afro-Caribbeanflavours of Brixton, up the river to the ancient alleywaysof the Square Mile, east to the lively, colourful marketsaround Liverpool Street, through the chicheartland of Islingtonand up to the picturesque ' villages ' of Hampsteadand Highgate- London is anything and everything.

Boasting communities from all over the world, some who've been here five hundred years, others five minutes, London's ever-changing landscapeis balanced by its firm historyand strong traditions. A trip to some of the outlying areas can be a great way of better understanding the space as a whole. From the stately elegance of Buckingham Palaceto the foreboding turrets of the Tower of London, the Gothic facades of the Houses of Parliamentto the simple upward sweep of Nelson's Column, the smooth, graceful dome of St Paul's Cathedralto the burnished copper brickwork of Westminster Cathedral, London is bursting with instantly recognisable historical, architecturaland institutional landmarksall of which you can experience first-hand.

Still the epicentre of British politics, despite devolution of power in recent years, London has also long been a centre of excellencefor education, artsand culture. It is now home to some fascinating, truly impressive public museumsand gallerieswhich, since 2001, have all been free to get in. Inspect the dinosaur skeletonsat the Natural History Museum, get to grips with conflicts of the 20thcenturyat the Imperial War Museum, or see some genuinely forward-thinking sculptureat the Tate Modern. London is also speckled with thousands of smaller

commercial cultural gemswhich take a bit more hunting out. The Photographers'Gallery near Leicester Square, Sir John Soane'smuseum in Holborn and the WhiteCubegallery in east London are just a few of the secret, smaller cultural treats on offer to those keen to seek them out.

A quick glance at any A to Z map will demonstrate that London is actually covered in swathes of green open spaces - parks, gardens, heaths, * commonsandwoods. Trot around Hyde Parkon horseback, (don't) feed the animals at Regent's Park zoo, swimin the ponds on Hampstead Heath, make friends with majestic deerin Richmond Parkand picnichigh up on Primrose Hill. Even in the middle of this vast metropolisyou're never far from the wonders of the natural world... Nor are you ever far from the meandering course of the River Thamesor one of the magnificent bridgeswhich span its north and south banks. Once one of the world's busiest waterwaysand ports,now the cleanest riverin the world that flows through a city, this great waterwaycurrently plays hostto a number of entertainmentsand attractionsand is best viewed while walking across Waterlooor Westminsterbridges. When it comes to entertainment, the city combines some of the oldest and most traditional establishmentsin the country with contemporary art complexesand ground-breaking performance spaces. From Shakespeare's Globetheatre to the Barbican,the BFI's London IMAXto Notting Hill's Electriccinema, there's both historyand innovation here. Eating and drinking in the capital is equally well catered for, with the sparkling elegance of Gordon Ramsey's restaurantat Claridge'sperched at one end of the spectrum and the homely, comforts of old English tavern, the George Inn, nestled cosily at the other.

Famous the world over for its retail opportunities, London's quaint markets, small boutiquesand bespoke couture shops, rest alongside huge department stores and familiar high street chains. Stock up on organic foodstuffsat BoroughMarketbefore heading to Fortnum& Mason'sfor a traditional hamperstuffed with rare delicacies.Stroll along exclusive Knightsbridge, popping into Harrodsand Harvey Nicholsbefore heading over to Oxford Streetfor a fashion-shopping frenzy. The future's bright for London. Since electing their first Mayorin 2000, the city has acquired an ever more potent focus and purpose; in 2005the bid to host the 2012 Olympicswas a success, beating off competition from Paris and New York. Over the next few years this will mean massive investment and development across the city.

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