Summer’s here – and it’s the perfect time to uncover the stories etched into the landscapes around us. Whether you're wandering through ancient ruins, admiring majestic castles, or stumbling upon hidden historical gems, let this season be your gateway to the past.

Looking for inspiration? Dive into our bite-sized reads from The Historian – ‘My Favourite History Place’ and ‘Out and About’ – packed with must-see spots, fascinating facts, and conversation starters to wow your travel companions.

Got a historic place you love? Share it with us!

From iconic landmarks to secret corners with a story, we want to know what makes your favourite history spot special. Snap a photo, tag us on social media, and use #OutandAboutHA to join the conversation. 

Weekly picks to spark your wanderlust this August

Week 1: w/c 4 August

 
At home: Tynemouth Priory, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne
Discover the windswept majesty of Tynemouth Priory, where centuries of spiritual devotion and military might collide on a dramatic cliffside overlooking the North Sea.

Abroad: Paestum, Italy
Step into the sun-drenched ruins of Paestum, where ancient Greek temples rival the Parthenon and Roman streets whisper stories of gladiators, philosophers, and everyday life – a vivid window into the soul of two great civilizations. 

Week 2: w/c 11 August

 
At home: Glasgow statues, Glasgow
Take a walk through Glasgow’s George Square and you’re stepping into a living gallery of Victorian ambition, imperial pride, and cultural identity - where every statue reflects a complex story of the people who shaped a city and a nation.

Abroad: Montreuil-sur-Mer, France
From medieval sieges and Napoleonic plots to World War headquarters and Victor Hugo’s literary legacy, this article brings Montreuil’s ramparts, citadel, and cobbled streets to life. 

Week 3: w/c 18 August

 
At home: Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland
Take a walk along Derry’s historic city walls, and learn how the city’s architecture, landmarks, and murals reflect centuries of conflict, colonisation, and community resilience from the Plantation of Ulster to the Troubles and beyond.

Abroad: Cairo
From the grandeur of the pyramids and the haunting beauty of Saqqara to the bustling alleys of the Old City and the poignant echoes of recent political upheaval, this article is a witty and personal journey through one of the world’s most fascinating cities. 

Week 4: w/c 25 August

 
At home: Swansea Castle, Wales
Explore the often-overlooked ruins of Swansea Castle – tracing its dramatic history from Norman stronghold to glassworks, prison, and drill hall, and celebrating its revival as a community heritage site thanks to the passionate efforts of local volunteers.

Abroad: Zanzibar
Step beyond the beaches and into the soul of Zanzibar – from the haunting legacy of the slave trade and the opulence of the Sultans to colonial intrigue, cultural icons like Freddie Mercury, and the enduring power of spice.