These crude contraptions were used to aid in the mining of lead, silver and gold.

Semi-precious Blue John stones have been mined in this cavern system for centuries.

Some of the most enduring novels in English literature were written within the walls of this Georgian-era building.

Harry Potter once visited this massive limestone cliff, which was carved by an ancient glacial river.

A tiny village in Wales claims the name of a noble medieval hound slain for a crime he didn't commit.

A miniature Italianate fantasy village on the coast of Wales and the set of ITC classic "The Prisoner."

The skull of the patron saint of lovers lies in the Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin—maybe.

There are plenty of wonderful panoramic vistas in Edinburgh, but not many are hidden smack in the middle of the Old Town.

An incredibly well-preserved piece of ninth-century Viking poop.

This obscure walkway links Edinburgh’s Old Town with one of the city's prime vantage points.

A book bound in the skin of an infamous criminal, along with countless other specimens.

A beautiful Greco-Roman structure houses a well once believed to have healing powers.

One of the oldest scientific gardens in Britain, containing more than 13,302 plant species in its core collection.

These steps offer a breathtaking view of one of Europe's most besieged fortresses.

A verdant 17th-century-style garden hidden along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

This alley off Edinburgh's Royal Mile contains remnants of the city's seedier history.

Protecting the dead from opportunistic body snatchers.

The fountain marks the area where hundreds of accused witches were burned at the stake.

The tomb of one of Scotland's bloody historic villains is a magnet for bumbling desecrators.

This extraordinary Viking artifact has traveled throughout the city.

This Roman relic was discovered in Scotland by a mudlarking ferryman.

This early version of the guillotine was used to execute the man responsible for its construction.

A moving memorial to the fallen and missing from WWI trenches.

A rare example of World War I trenches from the British front.