The beautiful and imposing capital capital of Scotland has been the site of a settlement since at least the Bronze Age as archaealogical remains found on Castle Rock prove.
Edinburgh castle, situated on a volcanic plug of rock, dominates the city that grew up around it from the 11th century. Here Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to James VI of Scotland who also became James I of England.

Swansea Castle – Image by Juan Seguí Moreno via Flickr

Swansea is second largest city in Wales. Although the city name appears to be of Viking origin, no evidence exists of any settlement until the 11th century when the Normans built a castle later destroyed by Owen Glendower. The major attraction is the beautiful Gower Peninsula just to the west of the city centre.