BRITISH SHIPS IN THE CANALS.; A FORMIDABLE FLEET THAT COULD BE MASSED ON THE LAKES. Share full article. Nov. 23, 1890. Credit... The New York Times Archives.

Manchester’s bold energy, industrial soul and creative edge make it one of the United Kingdom’s most surprising city breaks.

Birmingham (pictured) has 35 miles of canals, which Birmingham City Council says 'is said to be more than Venice', adding that the system is a 'reminder of a unique industrial history'.

Jim Mee is kayaking 1,000km laterally across Britain, from eastern English to western Ireland. He has just completed the crux -- 100km across the Irish Sea.

There has only been one mass-produced amphibious car that can tackle both land and sea. This vehicle was built in Germany, had a British Triumph Herald motor, and was aptly named the Amphicar.