Cathedral Towns

Karen Byrom tours historical places of worship and follows in the footsteps of a saint

- KAREN BYROM

The length and breadth of Britain, cities and towns play host to cathedrals built centuries ago - some in ruins, others restored, many still standing proud in their original glory.

One of the oldest is in St Andrews on Scotland's east coast. The site has been used for worship since the 1100s, when the remains of the martyred St Andrew are reputed to have been brought here. The original cathedral was dedicated in 1318, but was allowed to fall into ruins following the Scottish Reformation. However, it is still a spectacular vision of walls, towers and arches.

The amazing views from the top of St Rule's Tower are worth the 156 narrow steps you have to take to get there!

The ruins of St Andrews Castle, which contains a bottle dungeon, are close by.

St Andrews is a historic university town - the Prince and Princess of Wales both studied here and retains all of its medieval charm.

Visitors are also offered a chance to play or watch some golf at the famous Old Course, shop in charming independent shops along Market Street and South Street, or stroll the golden West Sands beach.

St Davids, the smallest of the UK's cathedral cities, is little larger than a village in Pembrokeshire. Yet its cathedral, founded in medieval times, stands proud, welcoming worshippers and visitors alike.

It, too, has royal connections. Edmund Tudor, father of Henry VII, is buried there on the high altar.