We’re all aware of the UK’s big hitters when it comes to tourism: Stonehenge, Loch Ness, Hadrian’s Wall, The V&A, the list goes on and on. If you’re looking for a day out, none of those suggestions are going to be of much surprise to you.
There is however, a veritable raft of under-the-radar delights to be discovered for those who just want to geek out on their favourite TV or music. Trips to these places are perfect gifts to surprise a TV or music buff with. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of some lesser-known activities that revolve around hugely popular shows or bands. There’s bound to be something for everyone amongst these.
Game of Thrones Studio Tour – Banbridge
Who knew that the unforgiving lands of Winterfell were actually just on our doorstep?
With the majority of HBO’s ratings behemoth, Game of Thrones having been filmed in Northern Ireland, it was only a matter of time before a tour was created to give fans a full-on GoT experience. The fictional realms of Kings Landing, Dorne, and others are all available for tourists to visit, and reside between Belfast and Dublin.
Fans can visit the Night’s Watch headquarters at Castle Black, the main hall at Winterfell Castle, and check out Jon Snow’s furs and other props from the show. There’s also a stunning recreation of the hall of faces, as well as an interactive screen experience which allows budding Starks and Targaryens the chance to show off their acting skills in front of a green screen. Find out more here.
The Crystal Maze Experience – Manchester/London
I went to the Manchester venue as part of my stag do, and I don’t mind telling you, it was an absolute blast!
Anyone who’s ever groaned at the ineptitude of some hapless contestant swinging around helplessly and thought ‘I could do better than that’, will soon find out they can’t. From making your entrance to the Aztec Zone via a giant slide, shouting at your teammates as they fumble around in a futuristic ball pit, and frantically grabbing at tickets in the famous crystal dome, you’re guaranteed a great time.
Don your own famous bomber jacket, and tackle the maze here.
Beatles London Walking Tour – London
I’ve got some Beatles-loving friends who would go mad for this guided experience.
Stopping by some iconic music venues frequented by the fab four and other acts such as The Rolling Stones, this tour takes in the rooftop that they played their last live performance at, the studio that Hey Jude was recorded in, and even the art gallery in which John Lennon and Yoko Ono met.
An absolute must for anyone with a soft spot for the Merseyside musicians, check here for more info.
Emmerdale Village Tour – Leeds
NERRR NE NE NE NER NERRR! Yep, just the mention of ITV’s long-running soap opera brings the famous theme tune to mind.
If you know somebody who religiously watches every episode, then they’re bound to get a kick out of exploring the actual village. The great thing about an Emmerdale tour, is that as well as spotting all the sights that a fan’s accustomed to seeing on the telly, the place is beautifully picturesque by itself.
If you fancy a pint in The Woolpack, then check out more details here. Keep an eye out for any low-flying aircraft though!
Bowie Tour London – London
Visit the thin white duke’s old stomping grounds across three different London-based tours. Each tour features live music along the way as the tour guide treats you to several of Bowie’s hits.
Each of the Brixton, Soho, and Beckenham tours offers up a wealth of anecdotes and facts about Bowie, providing fans with a greater insight into the mercurial troubadour. More info can be found here.