LONDON: The Old Bailey

Watch any British crime drama on TV, theatre or movie and you're bound to have heard mention of "The Old Bailey".

The "Old Bailey" is only a nickname for what's really called the "Central Criminal Court of England and Wales." 

You might ask why is it called the "Old Bailey"? The name comes from the street the court is located on, which marks the route of the City's original fortified wall (or 'bailey'). 

The Criminal Court hears criminal cases which must be tried by a judge sitting with a jury. These are the most serious offences. 

Trials at the Old Bailey are open to the public.

UK: Medieval York

York is about a 2 1/2 hour train ride north of London and lies midway between London and Edinburgh. 

York is a medieval walled city and holds almost 2,000 years of history within its walls. 

The Romans built the city in 71 AD.

After about 800 years the Vikings captured York in 866 AD. Contrary to the popular belief of Vikings, the ones that settled in York were mainly a peaceful bunch. They farmed the land and were great craftsmen, traders, artists, engineers and shipbuilders. Over the one hundred years that York was under Viking rule the city prospered. 

The city was incorporated in the 12th century and for a while was only second in size and importance to London. 

York also boasts that it is the cathedral city of the archbishop of York and has historically been the ecclesiastical capital of northern England. 

LONDON: Impressive Architecture

London has some dramatic buildings.

Ever popular is the iconic Elizabeth Tower, better known by the nickname, "Big Ben".

Technically, Big Ben is the name given to the massive bell inside the clock tower, but the name is commonly associated with the whole tower.

The Borough of Westminster, where Big Ben is located, proudly boasts that the iconic silhouette is instantly recognisable and is one of the most Instagrammed landmarks on the planet. 

I can imagine that includes a lot of "selfie" photos.

Since Big Ben first rang in 1859, six monarchs and 41 prime ministers have come and gone.