Place to see: Albert Docks, Liverpool, United Kingdom

About this place:

Opened in 1846 by Prince Albert, Albert Dock was the first enclosed, non-combustible dock warehouse system in the world and the first structure in Britain to be built entirely of cast iron, brick and stone. It finally closed in 1972, due to the decline of the sailing ships it was built to accomodate, and has since been restored as a heritage site.

Now it's a waterfront hub, home to history, art and culture, and social life. The Liverpool Maritime Museum and History of Slavery are here, as is the Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Experience, as well as a wide array of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. More than anything else, however, its a beautifully looked after slice of Britain's past.