More than a thousand years of inspiration and creativity have sculpted Britain's skyline, its society and, indeed, its very soul. Below are some destinations that are sure to interest the history enthusiast.

Bath

Whilst Bath's importance has varied enormously since the pre-Roman era, its beauty and allure have remained undisputed. Today, its reputation as a historical gem remains firmly in tact, and, with the recent restoration of its Roman Baths, it has reinstated its luxury spa town status.

A subtle blend of Roman and Victorian architecture, the Roman Baths are the architectural and historical focal point of Bath. And, whilst the tickets a bit pricey, the experience is absolutely priceless.

The city's other attractions, such as the Costume Museum, the Jane Austen Centre, and Number 1 Royal Crescent are also worth the extra pennies. Some of Britain's finest antiques, along with everything from high end to high street fashion can be found in Bath (most notably inside the famous Pulteney Bridge).

Luckily, you don't need to throw your budget plans out of the window to take advantage of Bath's gorgeous Georgian architecture. Every day, free 2-hour walking-tours leave from the main entrance of the Pump Room. (Sunday-Friday 10:30 & 14:00 and Saturday 10:30)

Additionally, there's free entry to the marvelous medieval Bath Abbey and its artifact-filled Heritage Vault Museum. What's more, as an official "Area of Outstanding Beauty" Bath's countryside is priceless.

Oxford

For hundreds of years, Oxford has been - and will continue to be - known as a renowned intellectual capital and one of the top destinations for history-hungry travelers. The city's main draw is, of course, its thirty-nine separate colleges radiating outwards from the city center.

Famous for the students it produces and the surroundings that inspired them, Christchurch College's chapel and quad are must-sees. If time permits, other Oxford colleges such as Trinity, Balliol, Magdalen, and New College also warrant a visit.

Among the many fine museums in Oxford, the astounding Ashmolean Museum is Britain's oldest. Along with the Pitt Rivers Museum, its collections of antiquities are well suited to their historical surroundings.

Oxford is simply heaven for the literature lover. However, you don't need to be a scholar to appreciate the grandeur of the Bodleian Library's Divinity School and Exhibition Room or the grandiose facade of Blackwell's Books.

The city runs excellent official walking tours daily. But, if you choose to tour the town in your own time, be sure to climb Carfax Tower, stop by the Sheldonian Theater, and bathe in the beauty of the Botanic Gardens.

York

Two thousand years of history emanate from York's narrow streets. It's entirely possible to lose yourself in this enchanting city without moving an inch. Window-shopping in the Shambles or strolling down Snickelways, you can take in York without taking out your wallet.

The Castle Museum and, of course, York Minster are worth every penny of their entrance fee as York's history is brought to life in the most exceptional ways. And if you're mesmerized by the medieval architecture of All Saint's or Holy Trinity Church you can make a donation.

Edinburgh

Great British destinations for a culturally-involved backpacker are by no means limited to south of the border. And budget travelers will feel particularly at home in Scotland's capital: In addition to a number of outstanding Edinburgh hostels, there's a wide variety of excellent cheap accommodation options.

Edinburgh blends medieval with modern as one of Europe's most stimulating cities. Walking through the Old Town and down the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace is a history lesson in itself. These royal residences attract travelers from around the world for their historical significance, collections, and stunning surrounding landscape.

Edinburgh is graced with an abundance of fantastic (and free!) artistic and historical museums, such as the Museum of Scotland, the National Library of Scotland, and the Museum of Edinburgh. Most impressive is the fabulous network of four National Galleries (National, Portrait, Modern, and Dean Gallery) and the free shuttle service between them!

No matter where you travel in Britain, its rich cultural past will be intertwined with its vibrant present. Whether it's a heavy dose of history you're after or you simply appreciate an attractive view, these cities will, by turns, amaze and inspire you.

About the author:
Before settling down and becoming a copywriter for HostelBookers.com, Ben Cooper traveled extensively and stayed in numerous hostels in England and Scotland.