places to visit in south england uk

The Best 20 Towns & Cities In Southern England

We’ve put together some of the best towns and cities in south England for a day trip, holiday, or vacation.  

From epic coastline to quaint villages and ancient cities, there’s just a lot to explore in Southern England. 

Here are our picks…

Table of Contents

We start with the biggest place in the South of England, and the UK: London .

With about 20 million people in Greater London there’s bound to be something for everyone. Whether it’s the history and spectacle of central London, or areas like Greenwich, Camden, Covent Garden, and Chiswick are all great.

London’s also a melting pot of different cultures and people, best scene via the vibrant food scene.

If you want to know more about this great global city, visit here for all our London articles. In the meantime, here are a selection of posts:

Full English Breakfast In London: 19 Great Places To Eat

5 castles that make a great day trip from london, 11 historic london churches to visit, 3 days in london: 72-hour itinerary for the perfect london getaway, 9 great places to visit near london.

Bath is one of the unique and most beautiful cities in South England. It is a historic town with an ancient history of Roman baths.

The city is full of fantastic Georgian buildings built from bath stone. 

It’s also got a close connection with Jane Austen, who lived in the town, and fans of the author can visit the excellent Jane Austen museum.

3. Cotswolds

Home to some of England’s most popular villages, the Cotswolds is a place worth visiting. This town is known for its cosy cottages and honey-coloured stone. Visit Broadway, Bibury, Castle Combe, and Burford – which are beautiful, charming, and historical.  

If you’re adventurous, you can go hiking on the Cotswolds way, about 100 miles to Bath or participate in the water sports at the Cotswolds water park. 

Newquay is a famous beach town in Cornwall . The town is a great vacation destination for families, especially for its bounty of blue flag beaches, bars, and clubs. However, that’s not all. 

Newquay is home to unique villages such as Holywell, Perranporth, and St Agnes. 

You can visit Rick Stein’s restaurant in  Padstow for some special breakfast treat. Then hit the Watergate beach, home to some of the best family hotels in Cornwall. 

The county town of Cornwall is a lovely market town on a river of the same name.

It’s notable for its cathedral which, despite its ancient looks, is actually only about 100 years old (a youngster for a English cathedral).

6. Salisbury 

Salisbury boasts a beautiful, ancient high street and a cathedral. There are several boutique shops, independent bars, and eateries to explore. 

But the main attraction is Stonehenge. The giant stone circle in Stonehenge remains one of the historical mysteries in the country. Built 5,000 years ago, no one knows why or how the stone was built. This mystery is a source of attraction for visitors from across the world. 

7. Arundel 

Sitting right in the hills of West Sussex, Arundel is one of the most stunning places to visit in the South Of England, especially if you love history. 

When you get there, visit the Arundel castle and cathedral and explore the numerous antique stores on the main street. Also see the Parsons table restaurant to taste some of the native Arundel foods. Their meals are incredible. 

8. Bournemouth 

Located around the seaside, Bournemouth is an exciting city to visit in the south of England, especially for its excellent sandy beaches. 

The city comprises over 7 miles of beaches, making it a popular destination for beach lovers. The good part is that the beaches offer some of the warmest waters in south England.  

In addition, head over Freida’s Tabus to visit the harbour area for afternoon tea. To fully enjoy your outdoors, visit the Bournemouth Pier for some rock climbing and zip lining. 

9. Brighton 

 Located a few miles from London’s best areas, Brighton and Hove is a famous city in England. Plus, it is one of the best places to enjoy a mix of food, seaside, and culture.

Visit the Brighton Palace pier to grab some fish, and take a walk around the wooden walkways at noon. For the best food, hop over to Halisco which prepares some of the most delicious Latin food. 

10. Canterbury 

Canterbury’s history in England is phenomenal as it was formerly a spiritual pilgrimage site. 

In fact, it remains an epic location for visitors who love history. 

Visit the Roman museum if you love to go a bit further back in time. When you’re hungry, quickly stop by Pinocchio’s Restaurant to enjoy some of the delicious moat pasta.

But it’s key draw is Canterbury Cathedral which looms over the city.

11. Exeter 

Located on River Exe’s bankside, the history of Exeter dates back to the Roman days.  The town offers a lot of exciting sights to see and things to do. The original city walls are located in the town’s central location next to the gigantic Exeter Cathedral.

Be sure to wander around to explore the history of this city. Then head to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum to explore all kinds of nature’s art and history. Hop over to Harry’s Restaurant to satisfy your craving for yummy steaks in Exeter. 

11. Windsor 

Located a few miles from Central London, Windsor is a beautiful place in southern England, especially for people who love castles . 

Today, it’s easier to reach Windsor from London by train, and it takes about 30 minutes. When you get there, hop over to Windsor Castle to explore the ancient history of the city. 

12. Lyme Regis 

Lyme Regis – often called the Pearl of Dorset – is a fine traditional English seaside town on the south coast of England.

But it’s also in the middle of the Jurassic coast, known for its ancient background such as the fossils and rock formations which have been around for 185 million years.

The coast offers plenty of activities to explore. You can go hiking on the cliffs or visit unique seaside towns like Weymouth and Lyme Regis. 

With over 95 miles of incredible coastlines to explore, Dorset Jurassic Coast delivers a memorable adventure experience. 

13.  Hastings

Hastings is a reasonably non descript town in East Sussex .

However it was also the site of one of the most consequential battles in British history: the Battle of Hastings.

The actual site of the battle is the village of, well, Battle, just outside the town and is definitely worth the visit.

14. Penzance

Penzance is located in Mound’s Bay in Cornwall, and it’s a beautiful place to visit.

When you get there, head to the historic Walk down chapel street with old buildings from the 18th century. It has that warm and exciting Cornwall charm that attracts visitors from everywhere. 

Visit the Morrab Gardens and Jubilee pool for a natural view,  and head to Trengwainton restaurant to satisfy your craving for delicious food. 

15. Plymouth 

Plymouth is popular for its historical naval background. It is where the Pilgrims departed for the new world in 1620. When you get there, visit the Plymouth Hoe, Plymouth sound, and the Mansion of Saltram. 

Head over to the Tudor Rose Tea Rooms and Garden for a lovely afternoon tea. For dinner time, visit the Artillery Tower for delicious fresh fish. 

16. Portsmouth 

Another town with a strong naval history, Portsmouth is popular as a port and naval city and essential visit for tourists looking to know about naval and British maritime history. But that’s not all! Also called Pompey by locals, Portsmouth is a crucial base for the British Royal Navy.

Explore the beautiful museums and historic dockyards, and enter the town to grab some traditional chips and fish with great beers to wash them down. 

17. Southampton

Situated on the southern coast,  Southampton city is easy to reach. 

When you get there, head to the SeaCity Museum, explore the Tudor house, and hop over to the Southampton Town walls. 

You can visit the Uptons of Bassett for the best chop experience. 

But if you want a sweet fix, hop over to Stacks Pancake House for some tasty dessert and brunch. 

18. Torquay

Also called England’s Riviera, Torquay is known for amazing beaches and Babbacombe. 

When you get here, visit the Babbacombe Model Village. Then head over to the Kents Cavern, an iconic historical monument in Torquay. Finally, explore Cockington Country Park with lots of fun activities. 

If you love birds, hop over to Living Coasts, a place that showcases the local seabirds and emphasis on conservation. 

Then head over to Small World Tapas for dinner. They’ve got great selections of delicious tapas. 

19. Weymouth

Weymouth is one of the best places to visit in the South of England, especially for its beautiful promenade of Georgian-style townhouses.  

Weymouth has a fantastic beach, an old town to explore, and a completely kitsch harborfront suitable for a walk. 

The beautiful Yeovil town is home to the Fleet Air Museum with gardens and parks. This means if you love parks and planes, you’ll enjoy Yeovil. After a visit to the museum, head to Ninesprings Park, a popular and beautiful spot with lush scenery and impressive waterfalls. 

Then you can take a 25-minute drive out of Yeovil to visit the Cerne Abbas Giant, a huge nude figure of a male. This image has been used in historical practice for hundreds of years, where couples dance around the image and pray for fertility. 

Remember To Check Out Our Most Popular Posts:

The Cotswolds: The 20 Best Places To Visit

English Villages | What Makes The Perfect Village In England (With Examples)

Visit Yorkshire, England: York, The Dales & More

English Cathedrals: The 20 Best Cathedrals In England

The Best 20 Castles To Visit In England

London Travel: The Ultimate Guide. Tips, Attraction Reviews & More

The Kings And Queens of England: From William the Conqueror To Charles III

British Insults, Slang & Phrases: The Ultimate Guide

10 Fun Facts About England: Weird English Traditions

The Yorkshire Dales | The Best Places To Visit

Gorgeous Images Of The English Countryside

Visit Somerset, England: Cider, Bath, Glastonbury & More

20 Gorgeous English Thatched Cottages

Take our London Quiz: How Well Do You Really Know London?

Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy

28 Beautiful Places To Visit In South England

Scott and I are both completely in love with the south of England. We’ve called it home for pretty much our entire lives and we’ve found so many beautiful places to visit in south England to keep us hooked for many more years to come.

So if you’re looking for the best places to go in south England for a day trip, weekend getaway or to add to your longer UK itinerary , then we’ve got you covered with these 27 unmissable places to visit south of the Midlands.

Are you ready for your UK bucket list to get a whole longer? Great, let’s go!

The Most Beautiful Places To Visit In South England

Jurassic coast.

The infamous World Heritage-status Jurassic Coast runs for 96 miles from Exmouth in East Devon and through Dorset before finishing at Studland Bay. 

It’s most famous for its 185 million years worth of geological history and is the perfect place to find fossils and other treasures from the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.

But there are also some stunning places to visit all along the Jurassic Coast where you can find incredible sea views, wildflower meadows, pristine beaches and more!

Here are our favourite places to visit along the Jurassic Coast that we recommend you add to your South England bucket list straightaway!

Thanks to authors like Jane Austen and Beatrix Potter, Lyme Regis is one of the Jurassic Coast’s most famous towns.

And as it’s a popular Victorian seaside town, it has also got lots of pretty areas to admire. 

From seeing pretty little boats moored in the harbour and wandering around pretty parks to finding old Victorian lamp posts and mooching inside bustling boutiques, you’ll never run out of things to do and see in Lyme Regis.

READ MORE: 12 BEAUTIFUL & HISTORIC LITERARY PLACES TO VISIT IN ENGLAND

Salcombe Hill

Salcombe Hill is along the coastal walk that you can follow from Sidmouth in East Devon and it’s so pretty!

Not only can you gaze at stunning ocean views but you’ll also see these same views framed by the rust-coloured Triassic cliffs that Sidmouth is known for.

Plus in the summer months, you can also find a beautiful wildflower meadow up here too!

Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door

Another of the Jurassic Coast’s most famous spots, Lulworth Cove is home to a pretty little bay, sandy beaches and fantastic sea views.

Durdle Door is also just over a mile away from Lulworth Cove and many visitors follow the coastal walks between the two.

Swanage is home to sandy beaches, charming tea shops, quaint houses – and perhaps its most famous landmark of all – Corfe Castle.

Most visitors just come to see Corfe Castle but you could easily spend a full weekend exploring all the pretty little nooks and crannies of this charming seaside town.

Bonus: Burrow Farm Gardens

While you’re in the Jurassic Coast area, be sure to stop off at Burrow Farm Gardens , which is roughly 20 minutes north east of Lyme Regis.

It’s nicknamed East Devon’s Secret Garden and is home to 13 acres worth of stunning gardens complete with ponds, gorgeous viewpoints – and perhaps our most favourite feature of all – a Secret Garden gate.

It’s also dog friendly – such a great bonus!

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the ancient Roman city of Bath is as beautiful as it is historic. 

From the incredible architecture of Bath Abbey and the Baths that helped to put this city on the map to the pretty botanical gardens and charming Regency houses you’ve seen slapped all over period dramas on the TV, there’s so much to love about this city.

You could easily spend a full weekend exploring Bath but you can still see so much even if you’ve got just one day to spare .

READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND THE PERFECT ONE DAY IN BATH

Bonus: Bowood House & Gardens

It’s not every day that you visit somewhere that truly takes your breath away and has you wishing to come back again before you’ve even left.

For us this autumn , that place was Bowood House and Gardens in Wiltshire (roughly an hour’s drive from Bath).

We discovered this place by chance while researching Poldark filming locations and we knew we just had to visit.

Not only is there a stunning Georgian property to see here, but the grounds are nothing short of magical. You’ll find grottoes, temples, a waterfall and even an arboretum (or pinetum) here.

You may even be lucky enough – like we were! – to see hundreds of geese basking in the sunshine and even glimpse some deer through the trees. Incredible!

Oxford is a truly iconic English city and is full of beautiful architecture you can’t help but stare at!

Some of the city’s highlights include the Radcliffe Camera, Oxford Castle and the Bridge of Sighs. 

But while you’re here, you should also make it your mission to enjoy afternoon tea in one of the city’s many charming tea shops.

You can also follow a path along the canal, which finishes near Port Meadow – a large open green space full of wildflowers during the spring and summer months.

Bonus: Blenheim Palace

If you’re visiting Oxford, then you should also try to get tickets for Blenheim Palace , which is roughly 20 minutes north of the city.

Although the palace and grounds are magnificent on any given day, this palace is truly INCREDIBLE to visit at Christmastime .

Each year, the palace puts on the most incredible sound and light shows throughout its gardens and the palace truly comes alive with spectacular themed decorations.

Last year, Alice in Wonderland took over the castle but other years have included Cinderella and other popular fairy tales.

Tickets don’t come cheap – but it’s seriously worth it!

READ MORE: CHRISTMAS AT BLENHEIM PALACE REVIEW & TIPS FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

Having lived in Bristol for close to a decade now, we might be a little biased to include it on this list of beautiful places to visit in south England.

But there are definitely so many things that make this city such a charming place to go!

From historic buildings in the old part of the city and magnificent ships moored in the harbour to various spectacular city viewpoints and even Banksy murals dotted throughout the city, there are so many reasons why you should visit Bristol .

Once again, you could easily spend a full weekend here, but if you’ve only got one day, then here’s how to make the most of it .

READ MORE: EPIC ONE DAY IN BRISTOL ITINERARY 

Exmoor National Park

Exmoor National Park in Devon is one of our favourite places to go in south England as there’s so much to do out in nature here.

If we could name drop just a couple of unmissable places to visit in Exmoor, they would be Heddon Valley (for the views, coastal walks and secluded cove) and Watersmeet (for the riverside strolls, woodland walks and foxglove fields).

Dartmoor National Park

Also in Devon, Dartmoor National Park is another beautiful place to explore.

Once again, you can’t really go wrong wherever you go.

But some of our favourite places in Dartmoor are Lydford Gorge (for the 100 foot high waterfall, riverside strolls and interesting legends), Hay Tor (for stunning views and rocks shaped like a giant’s foot) and Becky Falls (for yet more waterfalls and an ancient woodland).

We couldn’t possibly write about the most beautiful places to visit in south England without mentioning the country’s capital city could we?

There is a lot of beauty to find in London – especially if you know where to go.

While all the usual tourist sights are incredible to see firsthand, you should also make it your mission to see the various parks and green spaces throughout the city including Holland Park, Hyde Park, Kew Gardens and WWT London Wetland Centre.

The mews are also well worth finding, which are little cobblestoned streets free from cars and home to incredible wisteria-strewn houses.

Not to mention there are also lots of pretty little boutiques to discover in boroughs like Mayfair, Chelsea, Notting Hill, Covent Garden and Kensington.

READ MORE: 10 BEAUTIFUL LONDON MEWS – THE PRETTIEST STREETS IN LONDON

If you think historic cities are beautiful then you’ll LOVE Salisbury!

It’s home to 700 year old pubs, Tudor houses, a magnificent cathedral and even an original Magna Carta you can see up close.

How incredible is that? You can easily see the highlights of Salisbury in just one day – and you’ll love every minute!

READ MORE: ONE DAY IN SALISBURY – 15 BEST THINGS TO DO

Bonus: Stonehenge

While you’re in this area, you should also take a day trip from Salisbury to Stonehenge , which is easily one of the UK’s most iconic sights and is just 10 miles north of the city.

Bonus: Highclere Castle

Also, if you’re a fan of Downton Abbey then you’ll also love a trip out to Highclere Castle , which is less than an hour away from Salisbury.

It was the principal filming location for Downton Abbey and is even home to an Egyptian exhibit in the basement. 

Well worth visiting if you can get tickets – but you will need to plan months ahead.

READ MORE: VISITING DOWNTON ABBEY IN REAL LIFE – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The south of England is home to so many towns and cities that are well known for their Regency buildings and Georgian architecture. 

But Cheltenham is the most complete Regency town in the whole of the UK!

If you love houses and buildings akin to what you’d read about in a Jane Austen novel or see in a period drama, then you’ll love Cheltenham as you’ll find streets full of these houses everywhere you look.

READ MORE: 7 TOTALLY FUN THINGS TO DO IN CHELTENHAM

Bonus: Puzzlewood

While you’re in this area, you might also want to think about a day trip to Puzzlewood, which is roughly an hour south west of Cheltenham.

It’s an incredible wood to wander around and was also used prominently in Star Wars and other hit TV shows and movies!

READ MORE: SECRETS OF ENGLAND – PUZZLEWOOD STAR WARS FILMING LOCATION

We know. We know. Cornwall is an entire county in south west England, so what’s it doing among all these cities and towns?

Simply put, you just can’t go wrong wherever you end up in Cornwall. 

In our opinion, it’s one of the best places to visit in south west England and is usually the first place we recommend to anyone who wants to see the country outside of London.

And to be fair, there are so many beautiful places to visit in Cornwall that we thought it could do with its very own blog post .

For now, here’s what we recommend you start with…

Known as King Arthur’s birthplace, Tintagel is home to an ancient castle and a charming little village in north Cornwall. 

Plus the sea views from the top of the cliffs near the castle are incredible to see first hand!

READ MORE: TINTAGEL – THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VILLAGE IN NORTH CORNWALL

Porthcurno is home to a pristine sandy beach overlooking a calm bay. But it also has another incredible and very beautiful feature!

It’s home to the Minack Theatre, which is an open air theatre carved into the side of the cliffs and overlooking the sea. 

Coming here makes for a truly magical evening but you will need to book months ahead!

St Ives along the north coast is one of Cornwall’s most popular seaside towns – and it’s easy to see why!

It’s home to several clean sandy beaches, amazing coastal walks, calm bays and lots of charming seaside boutiques to have a mooch about in.

You should definitely make it your mission to spend a full weekend in St Ives – if not longer!

READ MORE: WHERE TO STAY IN CORNWALL – BEST TOWNS, HOTELS + B&BS

Lost Gardens of Heligan

The Lost Gardens of Heligan near Mevagissey is such a pretty place to wander around, but it also has a really interesting history.

The gardens date back to 1766 but they became neglected and completely overgrown during WWI. 

It wasn’t until 1990 when the gardens were discovered again, renovated and later opened to the public.

And thank god they were too!

Eden Project

The Eden Project near St Austell is another charming place to discover in Cornwall with its dome-shaped biomes home to tropical rainforests and thousands upon thousands of different plants, flowers and foliage.

READ MORE: THE BEST OF CORNWALL 3 DAY ITINERARY

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds stretch for a whopping 800 square miles – and there are so many beautiful towns and villages worth exploring here.

This is where you come in England to see quintessential chocolate box villages complete with thatched roofs, honey-coloured houses and colourful bunting in the spring and summer months.

Just like Cornwall, the Cotswolds deserves its very own blog post, which we’ve already written for you – check it out here !

READ MORE: THE PRETTIEST TOWNS & VILLAGES IN THE COTSWOLDS

Brownsea Island

Found just across the bay from Poole in Dorset, Brownsea Island is well worth making the trip.

The views across the bay are incredible and you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve been whisked away abroad somewhere. 

Not to mention you might spot some pheasants, peacocks and red squirrels, which all roam free around the island.

Exeter doesn’t usually make it onto lists of the most beautiful places to visit in south England, but we think that’s a total shame. 

Full of Tudor buildings and timber-framed houses, the city is so historic and is full of interesting stories and legends like ‘The House That Moved’.

Plus Exeter Quay is also a charming place for a wander where you’ll be met with views across the river and charming tea rooms, antique shops and other artisan boutiques!

You should definitely spend at least a day exploring Exeter. But if you can also stay overnight, then we’d definitely recommend it!

Ilfracombe in north Devon is another one to add to your list!

It’s home to incredible coastal walks, which overlook both the ocean and bustling harbour, as well as seaside boutiques, quaint tea shops and even a towering 66 foot tall statue made by Damien Hirst.

Bonus: Beautiful National Trust Places Worth Visiting

Although we’ve included 27 different places on this list, we’d be kidding if we told you we were finished. 

But at the risk of this blog post becoming mammoth sized like our UK bucket list did, we will stop there for now.

If you do want to find lots more beautiful places to visit in south England, then you should check out our post all about National Trust places in the UK .

There are lots more beautiful places included in that list that we’ll think you’ll love. Enjoy!

READ MORE: 33 OF THE BEST NATIONAL TRUST PLACES IN THE UK

We hope this blog post serves as some fantastic inspiration for beautiful places to visit in south England! 

Which places have caught your eye? And can you think of anywhere we’ve missed out? Let us know in the comments section below…

Did you like this? Pin this list of beautiful places to visit in south England now, visit them later!

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

Leave a reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

17 comments

You are right, I can see why you love this area. It is absolutely so picturesque and have long been on my travel list. There are too many to choose a favourite, but puzzlewood looks like such a gem with those trees! I have longed to do a tour of all the wonderful locations I have read about in Jane Austen’s books and this seems like you are a great resource.

A Jane Austen tour of England would be AH-MAZ-ING! This blog post here might help you out with that 😉

Or this one … I’m a big Austen fan myself 😉

So many beautiful places. I grew up in the UK and family holidays were always to Devon and Cornwall so I’ve been to many of those places on this list. However, still a few I need to try and a lot of places I’d never heard of. I think I need to visit some of those places around the Jurassic coast soon or they might revoke my citizenship for not having seen some of the best of my own country. It looks gorgeous!

We’ve spent a lot of time in Devon and Cornwall too; easily two of the best counties in England (at least in our opinion!) 😉

What an awesome list! Sadly, I’ve only been to London but there is so much more in South England to discover. Oxford, Bath and the Cotswolds have been on my list for a while but places like Salcombe Hill are new to me and look so beautiful. Love the coast!

You’ll just have to come back… you’ve got the perfect excuse now 😉

What a great list with some really awesome destinations! This whole situation has made me even more determined to explore more of the UK instead of always jetting off somewhere more exotic.

Bath is top of my travel wishlist at the moment, I can’t believe that despite living in London for 15 years I haven’t visited yet! Lyme Regis looks like totally my kind of place too, it’s so pretty and I love the idea of checking out little boutiques, cafes, etc. I’ll be adding it to my never-ending list too!

Definitely! Us too! Although we’ve seen so many beautiful places down south, our mission is to head north more. Although given we live in Bristol, it’s a little harder for us without spending the night. York is so high up our bucket list though 😀 I hope you’ll get to see Lyme Regis; it is so pretty – especially in the summer 🙂

I know shockingly little about the south of England and this is definitely making me want to visit! Puzzlewood looks incredible and so does Heligan.

Will definitely need to go visit there once things ease up!

Puzzlewood and the Lost Gardens of Heligan are definitely incredible! I hope you might be able to visit one day 🙂

Honestly had no idea how much you could do in southern England! Have been planning a trip there eventually but besides London and a few sights outside of the city I had no idea what to do. Great recommendations and excited to have a base to plan my trip futher!

Excellent! London is incredible (of course!) but there’s definitely so much more to see besides the capital. I hope you’ve got plenty of ideas from this blog post for your visit 😀

I am in love with England. My husband and I visited for the first time in October. We only stayed for 3 and a half days though. We stayed in London and spent a day in Stonehenge and Bath. I LOVED Bath. I love England so much that I contemplate us moving there.

Hannah | http://hannahonhorizon.com

Bath is one of our favourites too! I hope you’ll be able to come visit again soon but you’ll definitely have to make your trip longer next time 😉 So many incredible places to discover!

England looks like such a beautiful country, and I had no idea how insanely pretty the south is! I’ve always wanted to go to the Jurassic coast (and England in general) but now I’m lusting after those cute burrows! Gorgeous photos

Thanks Brooklyn! I’m glad this post has given you all sorts of travel inspo for England 😉 I hope you get to see the Jurassic Coast soon xoxo

• Travel Journal
• Travel Advice
• Travel Inspiration
• Photo Diary
• Photography Tips
• Photography Inspiration
• Destinations
• Home Inspiration
• Blogging Tips
• Work With Us

17 Beautiful Places In The South Of England To Visit

Look, it can be tough when trying to whittle down a firm plan of spots to explore on your next trip around England, especially if you’re short on time.

This is why I wanted to share some of the best places in the south of England to visit on your next trip. Some the cities, others are tiny little hamlets, but what they all have in common are being places you should definitely think of exploring. 

Now, there’s no firm or set rule in what’s considered to be the south of England, but, to keep things simple, I’m not going any further north than the Cotswolds .

This way, If you’re staying near the southern coastline you can almost be guaranteed a cluster of little stops along your trip.

With that in mind, I’ve popped a list of some cool places in the south of England to visit whilst you’re here. Oh yeah, and like all our posts, just shoot us a message if you need any other tips or advice. We’re always happy to help. 

Take a look, below, at the best places in the south of England to visit. Have the best time!

1.) Arundel 

Perched in the rolling hills of West Sussex, Arundel is totally stunning and one of the best places in the south of England to visit if you love history. 

Once you’re here, make sure to wander around Arundel Castle (which is still a family home), see Arundel Cathedral and explore the little craft and antique stores that line the main street. Honestly, I wanted to buy everything when I was there! 

Afterwards, pop over the Parsons Table where they have the best food in the whole region. It’s the kinda place where you want to lick the plate clean. The food is so good! 

Oh, and if you’re fond of a little tipple, head over to one of England’s finest vineyards , they make a delicious sparkling English wine that’s so good. Thankfully, it’s not too far of a drive and easy to visit for a short afternoon trip. 

Read more: The best way to visit Arundel

2.) Bournemouth

Perched right at the seaside, Bournemouth is one of the best places in the south of England to visit for the beach. In fact, it’s got around seven miles of sandy beaches which make it a pretty popular spot when we get some of that English sunshine. 

Now, you might be wondering if it’s too cold to swim in the sea around Bournemouth? Well, it’s a little chillier than the Maldives but it’s still some of the warmest waters you’ll find in England. Just make sure to slap on some sunblock, that wind can fool you into not getting burnt.

Once here, pop over to explore the harbour area and grab an afternoon tea by hopping above Freida’s TeaBus. If you want a stronger tipple, pop into the Library of Liquor at Larder House too. It’s a hidden speakeasy with some yummy concoctions.

That being said, if you want to make the most of the outside, hop over to Bournemouth Pier. Here, you can zip lining, rock climbing or even buy a few sticks of rock (candy) close by.

Also, if you fancy escaping the crowds, take a little drive to the Purbeck Heritage Coast that’s totally pristine and feels like a million miles away from the coastal town itself. 

Read more: Best hikes in England

3.) Brighton

Located a mere hour’s train ride away from best areas of London , Brighton is a pretty well-known city (Brighton and Hove) in England. Better still, it’s easily up there as one best places in the south of England to visit if you love a spot of culture, food and the seaside. 

Now, it’s pretty obligatory to pay a visit to the Brighton Palace Pier, which has stood as a sentinel over the harbour for more than a century. Once here, you can ride a few of the rides – grab some fish and chips and stroll along the wooden walkways all afternoon.

If you love pretty buildings, head straight over to the former royal residence of Brighton Pavilion (or, Royal Pavillion), which is a short walk from the pier itself.  Dating back from the 18th Century, it’s an iconic part of the city to see and totally lovely to stroll around. 

Afterwards, make sure to make some time to explore the lanes, pop in the little independent stores and grab yourself a few keepsakes from your trip. Now, If it’s the food you’re after, head straight across to Petit Pois Restaurant for a yummy dinner. 

That being said, if you want to have a yummy chai latte and fresh lunch, head into down to Wheat & Beans . Alternatively, if you’re really hungry, head over to Halisco who conjure up the tastiest Latin food around. 

Read more: Best things to do in Brighton

4.) Cotswolds

So, the Cotswolds is a quintessential and charming region of England that looks like it has fallen out of a storybook! It’s the kind of place of thatched cottages, little streams and higgledy-piggledy houses. It’s totally quaint and easily one of the best places in the south of England to visit.

Now, one of the easiest ways to get around the Cotswolds is by car, especially if you want to visit some of the pretty villages and towns. Places like Tetbury , Bibury , Stow-on-the-Wold, The Slaughters and Burton-on-the-Water area must see when exploring. 

Take a look at our Costwolds specific post for much more detailed info on the Cotswolds, where to stay and what to eat. It really is a beautiful area.

Read more: Best places to visit in the Cotswolds

3.) Canterbury

Now, Canterbury has a very long history in England and was once a site of spiritual pilgrimage way back in the Middle Ages.

Still, to this day, Canterbury is easily one of the best places in the south of England to visit if you love a bit of history.  The old city centre still bears its Medieval walls, while the iconic cathedral (which was erected in 597), is totally breathtaking.

Honestly, it’s a pretty epic place for anyone interested in history, as you can also explore the ruins of Saint Augustine, an abbey built in the 6 th century.

If you fancy going a bit further back in time, head across to the Roman museum, too. Finally, after a day spent exploring, be sure to stop by Pinocchio’s Restaurant for some of the best pasta… al dente, of course! 

Oh yeah, if you fancy a little jaunt from Canterbury itself, pop over to Leeds Castle which is huge and so beautiful to see. 

Read more: Pretty places in the UK to visit

Located on the banks of the River Exe, Exeter has a pretty long history that goes back to Roman times! Better still, it’s really easy to visit Exeter on your trip further west (to Cornwall) and is a perfect stopping point along the way. 

Plus, once you’re here, there are lots of things to see and do once you arrive. The original city walls can still be seen in the centre of town alongside the totally gorgeous Exeter Cathedral. Make sure to spend a little time wandering around to explore all the city’s history, honestly, you won’t be disappointed. 

Afterwards, head to The Royal Albert Memorial Museum was originally opened way back in 1868. Here you can find all sorts of things from art, history and nature.

Oh yeah, and interestingly enough, the city has its very own underground passage, too. Originally constructed back in the Middle Ages as a means of transporting water, today you can take a guided tour through these tunnels, which are as fascinating as they are a little spooky.

For a tasty bite to eat, pop over to Harry’s Restaurant on Longbrook Street. They have the tastiest steaks in all of Exeter.  

Also, if you fancy a totally different type of trip, you can fly from Exeter to the Scilly Isles which are about 30-miles from the shore. They are almost tropical and are totally picturesque. 

Read more: How to visit the Scilly Isles

6.) Windsor

Not too far from Central London, Windsor is a beautiful and one of the best places in the south of England, especially if you love castles! Now, it’s pretty easy to arrive in Windsor by train from London, especially with it taking only about 30-minutes. Once here, make sure to head to Windsor Castle and explore the rooms, grounds and all the history inside. 

Just to be on the safe side, I’d always recommend getting tickets before you arrive. Just in case the daily numbers are capped when you want to visit. 

Afterwards, pop over to Eton (just across the river) and explore some of the old buildings and colleges before heading to A la Russe for a yummy dinner. 

Read more: Best things to do in Windsor

For me, London is easily one of the best places in the south of England to visit, especially if you want a fun city break. 

Now, one of the best things about the city is how diverse the different areas of London actually are.

Places like Camden , the markets of London , Covent Garden and Greenwich are totally amazing. That being said, you’ve also got some other non-touristy areas such as Peckham that has some pretty cool nightlife and tasty restaurants, especially at the Peckham Levels. 

Once you’re here, make sure to also check out the amazing palaces dotted across London, find the best coffee shops and explore all the city has to offer. 

Also, Borough Market is one of the oldest food markets in the entire city, dating back to the thirteenth century. Just make sure to get a Gelato from the nearby 3Bis, too. 

Oh, and don’t forget to check out some of London’s secret spots , too.

Read more: Best things to do in London

8.) Watergate Bay 

Nestled on the north Cornwall coastline , Watergate Bay is a mere stone’s throw from Newquay and one of the largest surfing hubs in the UK. That being said, that’s not the only reason to go to Watergate Bay. 

Once here, make sure to explore the stunning coastline and coastal paths that head across the Cornwall Coastline.

Afterwards, check into the Watergate Bay Hotel – it’s totally gorgeous and the perfect place for a seaside break in England. 

Read more: Best places to explore in Cornwall

9.) Penzance

Nestled cosily into Mound’s Bay in Cornwall , Penzance is a beautiful coastal town that’s one of the best places in the south of England to visit. IT’s got that warm and lovely Cornwall charm that makes this area of England so inviting! 

Once here, take a walk down Chapel Street, which is the most historic avenue in the town. It has a heap of buildings that date back to the 18 th The most famous dwelling on Chapel Street is the Egyptian House.

Afterwards, pop on over to the Morrab Gardens offer over three acres of subtropical plants to take in, including palm trees and banana plants, which are quite the rarity in England. 

Penzance is also home to the infamous Jubilee Pool, which is set between the harbour and promenade. This is the largest art deco lido of this kind in the entire country, and makes a great spot for swimming, sunbathing or picnicking during the warmer months.

Afterwards, pop into the Trengwainton Tearooms that has the freshest scones, Cornish clotted cream and lashings of jam. All washed down with some hot tea. It’s so yummy. 

Read more: Best things to do in Cornwall

10.) Plymouth

In England, Plymouth is famous for its history with the sea. After all, it’s this the place that the Pilgrims originally departed from back in 1620 for the New World.

Today, you can visit the Mayflower Steps, a memorial marking the event and a historic spot in the city.

Once here, explore Plymouth Hoe, see the Georgian mansion of Saltram and explore Plymouth Sound itself.

For a tasty afternoon tea, head to the Tudor Rose Tea Rooms & Garden which will have you stuffed in no time. If it’s dinner you’re after, pop into the Artillery Tower that has some yummy fresh fish to gorge on. 

If you fancy a trip from the city, head over to Dartmoor National Park, head to the north of Devon or head towards Salcombe for a quaint little seaside town. 

Read more: Best things to do in Plymouth

11.) Portsmouth

Portsmouth has often been known as a port and naval city, and it is an absolute must-visit for anyone interested in British maritime and/or naval history. 

That being said, it’s not the only reason why you should visit, it’s easily up there as one of the best places in the south of England to visit whilst in the area. 

Known as Pompey to the locals, Portsmouth currently functions as the most significant base for Britain’s Royal Navy (even more so historically).

Today, you can explore the historic dockyard, complete with four different historical ships that call this place home. There are a number of wonderful museums to lose yourself in as well, with one of the most moving being a museum dedicated to the Allied soldier’s D-Day invasion in 1944 during World War Two.

While you are in town, be sure to make time to grab a traditional meal of fish and chips at the infamous Still and West, which also has an incredible beer selection to wash it all down.

Read more: Best things to do in Portsmouth

12.) Bath 

Okay, so for me, Bath  is one of the best places in the south of England to visit… or across England full stop! It really is a stunning town and really easy to visit for a day trip (by train) from London. 

Perched relatively close to the picturesque Cotswolds , it’s a totally stunning place with so much to do.

Once you arrive, make sure to visit the Roman Baths (still perched in the centre of Bath itself), head over to the Bath Abbey and explore the Royal Cresent. Now, Bath has been built using a particular type of local stone, which means all the buildings look very sandy and gorgeous. 

Afterwards, pop over to try some of Sally Lunn’s buns (they’re yummy) and gorge at Sotto Sotto (on North Parade). They make delicious pasta that’s too good to miss. 

Read more: Best things to do in Bath

13.) Salisbury

The stunning city of Salisbury is totally gorgeous and one of the best places in the south of England to visit, especially if you’re already visiting Stonehenge (that’s relatively nearby). 

Housing historic buildings and imposing medieval cathedrals, it’s well worth spending a long afternoon or day exploring the cobbled streets. Now, easily the most famous resident of Salisbury has to be the cathedral.

It’s huge and totally awe-inspiring.

Better yet, this ornate cathedral dates back to the 13 th century and is the home of the Magna Carta, which was one of the first documents to advocate for citizen’s rights in the Western world.

For a tasty treat, head over to The Chapter House. That being said, if you plan to visit on the weekend, make sure to book in advance. This spot can get busy. 

As I mentioned, whilst you’re in the area, be sure to visit the prehistoric wonder that is Stonehenge . It’s only about nine miles (13 km) south of the Salisbury Plain and pretty easy to visit. It really is one of the best places in the south of England to visit.

Read more: Exploring Stonehenge and Salisbury

14.) Southampton

Located on the southern coast, Southampton is a city that’s pretty easy to get to when in the south of England. 

Once you’re here, make sure to explore the SeaCity Museum, visit the Tudor House and Garden and pop around the Southampton Town Walls.

After all, they’re all an easy way to dip into the history of the city.

That being said, if history isn’t your thing, head on over to the Uptons of Bassett which is one of the best chop houses around.

Oh, and if you’re looking for a sweet fix, pop into Stakks Pancake House – it’s one of the best places to go for brunch or a tasty dessert. 

Read more: Best things to do in Southampton

15.) Torquay

Fondly known as England’s Riviera, Torquay is well-known for its rugged cliffs pretty beaches and, of course, Babbacombe.

Once you’re here, make sure to explore the cutest model village called, Babbacombe Model Village. It’s almost an institution in Torquay and pretty cute. Afterwards, head to the Kents Cavern which has been one of the most iconic ancient monuments in the area. Finally, pop over to Cockington Country Park that’s totally quaint on a sunny day. 

Now, If you’re a bird lover, visit Living Coasts, a place that speaks about the local seabirds while also raising awareness about the importance of conservation. That being said, if you’re not much of a bird watcher, you might wanna give this spot a miss.

After all that exploring, head for dinner at Small World Tapas. They’ve got a massive selection of yummy tapas. I swear, it’s gorge-worthy and easily one of the best places in the south of England to visit. 

16.) Weymouth

Weymouth and its surroundings are easily one of the best places in the south of England to visit. Not just because it’s a classic seaside town in England, but because of how many varied things you can do around the area. 

Known for its gorgeous promenade of Georgian-style townhouses, Weymouth has a pretty gorgeous beach (with Punch and Judy shows) and an old town for exploring. It’s also got a totally kitsch harbourfront that’s perfect for a stroll.

Now, in my opinion, Weymouth is one of the best places in the south of England to visit if you want to explore the Dorset Area of Natural Beauty.

After leaving the city, head east towards Durdle Door , visit the thousands of years old village of Corfe Castle and go fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast . 

Finally, before leaving the area, make a final pit stop at Old Harry Rocks . It’s a totally gorgeous place for a stroll… just don’t walk too close to the cliff edges.

Read more: Visiting Durdle Door and Corfe Castle

17.) Yeovil

The gorgeous town of Yeovil (in Somerset) is not only home to the Fleet Air Museum, which is the largest naval aviation display in all of Europe, it is also chock-full of picturesque parks and gardens to enjoy. This all means that if you’re really into planes and parks, you’re gonna love Yeovil. 

Though don’t worry, that’s not all there is to do in Yeovil. After a little jaunt to the museum, head across to Ninesprings Park which is, perhaps, one of the most famous and beautiful spots here. Plus, it’s all complete with stunning waterfalls and lush scenery.

Afterwards, take a drive out of Yeovil to see the Cerne Abbas Giant, which’s about a 25-minute drive from the town itself. Thought to date back older than the 17th Century, the Cerne Abbas Giant is a huge 55-metre high nude male figure that stands ‘proudly’. Oh, and by proudly, I mean with an erection!

During Victorian times, couples would dance around the earthwork (with a maypole) and hope for fertility. Make of it what you will but it’s many hundreds of years old and easily one of the best places in the south of England to visit. 

Read more: Best places in England to explore

The 19 Prettiest And Best Places To Visit In England

Check Out The Very Best Of Great Britain!

Pop Over To Our YouTube Channel For Travel Videos!

Puppy Defender. Foodie. Chocolate Fiend and Custard Lover. Dip, Cover or Wrap anything in sugar and I'm Yours!

11 Countries You Need To Visit In Africa

13 Very Best Things To Do In Fuerteventura

You may also like.

Visiting The Beautiful City Of Quebec, Canada

10 Very Best Places To Visit In Budapest, Hungary

A Day Of Sailing And Exploring Valencia, Spain

Looking for something, fellow connected travellers.

• 558k Facebook
• 0 Pinterest
• 1,202,450 TikTok
• 340,142 Instagram
• 23,800 X (Twitter)
• 33,252 Email Subscribers

Adventure Awaits!

Have You Seen These Yet?

7 Tips And Tricks For Wildlife Travel Photography!

Hiking Maligne Canyon In Alberta

12 Very Best Things To Do In Merida, Mexico

17 Very Best Things To Do In Paris, France

15 Best Places In The North Of Spain To Visit

• Privacy Policy

Email address:

10 Incredible Things to do in Southern England

Southern England is filled with incredible historical sites as well as gorgeous natural landscapes. From quaint villages and bustling university towns to natural parks, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to places to visit.

The great thing about this region is that you can also see most of the top attractions on epic weekend trips from London , as most of them are within a 2-3 hour drive from the capital. 

Here are 10 unmissable things to do in Southern England, from the must-see bucket list sights to the lesser-known hidden gems of the area. 

This is a guest post by Jiayi Wang of The Diary of a Nomad.

Table of Contents

10 Things To Do in Southern England

1. hop around the picturesque villages of the cotswolds .

The Cotswolds is home to some truly stunning countryside landscapes as well as countless quintessential English villages. It’s worth spending at least a weekend, if not a whole week, there exploring this marvelous region. 

One of the best Cotswolds villages to see is Bourton-on-the-Water. This picturesque village offers tons of fun and quirky attractions, such as a miniature model village that’ll make you feel like a giant, and the Birdland Park & Gardens, where you can spot flamingos, parrots, penguins, and 500+ other kinds of birds! 

Of course, no trip to the Cotswolds would be complete without a visit to the famous Water Lane in Castle Combe. This row of stone cottages is truly postcard-worthy. Be sure to get there early to avoid the crowds!

2. Take Some Relaxing Walks in the Malvern Hills 

The Malvern Hills is an amazing hidden gem that most tourists don’t venture to. For this reason, it’s truly a great place to escape the crowds of the city and go for a quiet retreat in nature.

In fact, there are tons of stunning walks in the Malvern Hills that’ll keep you busy for at least a day or two. Be sure to walk up to and around Worcestershire Beacon, the highest point of all the hills. This walk is very easy and suitable for walkers of all experience levels.

Not far from there is Great Malvern, a quiet spa town with a lovely park and cathedral worthy of seeing as well. It’s a wonderful place to grab a pint after a long day of walking.

Don’t leave the Malvern Hills without walking up Herefordshire Beacon, which offers the best views of the whole region. While many parts of the walking trails are pretty secluded, you can also find a few cafes scattered around the woods for those necessary breaks.

3. Take in the History, Food, and Art in London

London is the beating heart of England, and it goes without saying that there are endless things to do there, whether you’re into history, culture, nature, or food. If you enjoy photography, you’re also in luck because there are plenty of famous Instagram places in London to explore as well.

One of the most photogenic spots in town is the iconic Tower Bridge, which stands proudly over the Thames River. Take a stroll on the bridge before exploring the Tower of London, which is home to the royal Crown Jewels. Not far from there is Millennium Bridge, which offers stunning views of St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Don’t leave London without exploring Westminster Abbey or the famous Buckingham Palace, where the UK’s monarchs reside. For a unique experience, head over to Sky Garden, a rooftop terrace that offers an incredible view of the whole city. Get there in time for sunset for an extra magical panorama!

4. Treat Yourself to a Relaxing Spa at Bath

Bath is hands down one of the most historical cities in England, and it’s definitely worth spending at least a day here learning about Britain’s Roman past. That’s right, the main attraction in town is the Roman Baths, which will basically make you feel as though you’re in Italy. 

At the Roman Baths, you can learn a lot about the way Bath’s locals used to live during the Ancient Roman Empire. Afterwards, you can take a dip in Thermae Bath Spa, which is fed by the same natural spring waters that supplied the Roman Baths back in the day!

There are tons of pools and spa rooms in Thermae Bath Spa, so it’s worth spending at least two hours relaxing there. The highlight of this place is the heated rooftop pool, which offers stunning views of the city. 

5. Go on a Self-Guided Harry Potter Tour in Oxford

Oxford is a world-famous university town with absolutely stunning architecture and buzzing nightlife too. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll enjoy walking around the university campus even more — there are several Harry Potter filming locations there, including the Christ Church College, New College, and Bodleian Library.

Another unmissable thing to do in Oxford is to go punting, which has been an Oxford tradition for centuries now. You find several tour companies to go with, or, if you have a friend at the university, you can go with them for free.

Oxford is also home to tons of cool museums, such as the Ashmolean Museum and the Museum of Natural History, where you can learn about everything from sharks to minerals!

6. Take in the Magnificent Landscapes of the Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast is hands down one of the most breathtaking places in all of England. The perfect way to see it is to do a road trip and explore the whole coast at a leisurely pace. You can easily spend 3 whole days there in order to cover all the best sights.

The highlight of the Jurassic Coast is without a doubt Durdle Door, a unique rock formation lying in the water, in front of a picturesque beach. During sunset, the scenery there is especially gorgeous, so be sure to have your camera handy!

Next to Durdle Door are the stunning cliffs of Lulworth Cove, which offers even more incredible vistas. During your time there, be sure to go for a swim in Mupe Bay and also see the historic Lulworth Castle, which used to be a hunting lodge in the 17th century.

For an unforgettable experience, head over to Cranbourne Chase AONB, one of the best places to go stargazing in Southern England. There’s very little light pollution there, so be sure to bring a blanket and a late-night picnic.

7. Admire the Cliffside Views of Dover

One of the most unique places in Southern England is Dover, a historical seaside town that played a big role during WWII. One of the main sights to see here is Dover Castle and its Secret Wartime Tunnels. In medieval times, British soldiers used to hide there as they protected the region from German invaders.

After getting a bit of a history lesson, be sure to take a walk at the White Cliffs of Dover, which are absolutely breathtaking. You can spend most of the day strolling along the cliffs and enjoying the seaside landscapes.

During your walk, don’t miss the pretty South Foreland Lighthouse, which used to guide sailors through the Strait of Dover in the 1800s!

8. Enjoy a Relaxing Getaway at Canterbury

Canterbury is a vibrant UNESCO city with cute cobblestone streets and a gorgeous countryside vibe. It’s totally worth spending a day relaxing in this town and exploring some of its historical monuments. 

Take a stroll at the Westgate Gardens, which offers stunning views of River Stour. You can even relax with a picnic there! The town itself also offers beautiful vistas of the river, and the sight of the townhouses next to the water is especially picturesque.

Not to be missed is the Canterbury Cathedral, one of the oldest Christian institutions in the UK. The architecture there is quite spectacular, and the cathedral has over 1,000 years of history worth learning about.

9. Experience the Punting Tradition in Cambridge

Cambridge has something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a culture lover. This university town straddles the River Cam, which means punting is a very popular and a must-do activity during your time there. You can even book a guided punting tour to get to know the local culture more!

Cambridge University itself is very much worth exploring too, especially its majestic King’s College Chapel, which stands right in front of River Cam. There’s also a lush Botanic Gardens in town, which contains over 40 acres of beautiful woodland.

Be sure to stop by The Eagle for a pint. This is one of the oldest pubs in Cambridge, and interestingly, it’s also where Watson and Crick first publicly announced that they’d discovered DNA!

10. Get Lost in the Arcades of Brighton Beach

No trip to Southern England would be complete without a stop in Brighton, one of the most vibrant cities in the UK. Home to the biggest Pride Festival in England every August, this town is complete with a beach and has a very lively atmosphere — perfect for a family trip, a fun friends trip, or a romantic getaway!

Head over to Brighton Pier for lots of fun arcade games. Next to it lies the pebbly Brighton Beach, where you can sit down for a picnic or go for a swim if the weather isn’t too cold. There are also lots of seafood restaurants by the beach, such as Riddle And Finns.

Don’t leave Brighton without visiting the historic Brighton Lanes, which is filled with boutique shops and cute cafes, or climbing up the British Airways i360 Viewing Tower for a panoramic view of the whole town.

Author Bio : Jiayi Wang is the writer and photographer behind The Diary of a Nomad, a travel and photography blog with a special love for less-visited destinations. While she was raised in Rome, she has been living in London for over 5 years now.

Sharing is caring!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Work With Us
• Blogging Resources
• Trip Planning

• Destinations
• Solo Travel
• Couples Travel
• Family Travel
• Expat Tips + Stories
• Expat Interview Series
• Inspiration + Musings

30 Best Places to Visit in South England

Deciding on the best places to visit in Southern England is no easy task! First of all, what exactly is “Southern England”?

For simplicity, we decided to count everything south of the Midlands, besides the East of England. We already covered the best places to visit across England here , so this time we just wanted to focus on one area.

We asked our fellow travel bloggers to help us out with their favourite South England spots, and as a result, we have the 30 amazing places to add to your South England bucket list.

No list of places to visit in South England would be complete without including the vibrant city of London. Need we say any more?

Full of iconic sites like Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Trafalgar Square, and the British Museum, just to name a few, you won’t run short of things to do in London .

We recommend jumping on a ferry to Greenwich to see as much as possible from the Thames and make sure you visit at least one of London’s many markets, like Greenwich Market, Old Spitalfields, Covent Garden, Portobello, Camden, and Brick Lane.

Check out our four-day itinerary for first-timers here .

Bath is a paradise for those that love Jane Austen, but it’s also a wonderful place for anyone to visit really! It’s a city rich with history, including the iconic Roman-built baths, the beautiful Pulteney Bridge, and the iconic Royal Terrace with its crescent of terrace houses.

We loved having brunch in the Pump Room next to the baths, visiting the Jane Austen Centre, and enjoying a famous Sally Lunn Bun from Bath’s oldest house, built around 1483.

Check out top things to do in Bath here (especially if you like Jane Austen!).

Bristol stands on either side of the Avon River and is known for its maritime history, and as the home of graffiti artist Banksy.

You can take street art tours, explore the older part of the city, visit Clifton Suspension Bridge, and learn more about the city’s past at M-Shed, the Bristol Museum.

Check out our Bristol weekend itinerary here .

The Cotswolds covers a huge area of 800 square miles, and has been declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Most people who visit the Cotswolds want to take in the charming villages with historic architecture made from the honey-coloured Cotswold stone.

Some of our favourites include Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, Castle Combe, Stow-on-the-Wold, and the twin villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter. Other things to do in the Cotswolds include visiting Warwick Castle and Blenheim Palace or walk the Cotswold Way.

Lizard Peninsula

The Lizard peninsula in Cornwall is one of the most stunning landscapes in all of England.

Colourful fishing ports are scattered around, and the smell of delicious and fresh fish and chips, scones and Cornish pasties will make your tummy rumble!

The plants and flowers here are some of the most unique, and you will even find rock formations that you may rarely see elsewhere.

Some of the top places you should visit here are Kynance Cove, Kennack sands, Coverach beach, Poldhu cove beach and the village of Cadgwith.

Mullion Cove is where you’ll find thick harbour walls surrounded by black volcanic rock. Roskilly’s farm is where you can see and enjoy fresh ice cream being made.

You can learn more about the maritime history at Lizard lighthouse and enjoy spectacular views too.

Anne’s pasties are the most famous here and the shop is located at England’s southernmost mainland point!

You can also go diving and kayaking in this Area of Outstanding Beauty (AONB).

Rye & Camber Sands

By Bridget at The Flashpacker

For two idyllic destinations in southern England for the price of one, visit Rye & Camber Sands in East Sussex.

The medieval town of Rye is laced with cobblestoned streets, flanked by Georgian townhouses and wonky timber-framed Tudor houses, and is home to a 12th-century church and a castle. Reputedly, there’s even a haunted inn.

As a source of inspiration for artists, Rye has a fine selection of galleries as well as a number of small independent shops. And if you’re in the mood for coffee and cake, you’ll be well served by Rye’s excellent cafes.

Camber Sands, an easy three-mile walk from Rye and home to one of the longest dune systems on the South Coast, has a beach to rival many of those in more exotic corners of the world.

Collect seashells and paddle in the rock pools along its seven miles of golden sand, or embrace your inner child by building sandcastles.

If you are feeling more adventurous, why not try your hand at kitesurfing?

Although an overnight stay is recommended, thanks to good train links, Rye and Camber Sands is an easy day trip from London, just one hour from London St Pancras International with a change of train at Ashford International.

The Jurassic Coast

By Theo from Waffles and Lamingtons

From dramatic cliff lines that look more like the Mediterranean to eye-catching country towns, the Jurassic Coast has so much beauty and history to offer and you will absolutely fall in love.

There is so much to see along the Jurassic Coast that you need a few trips to really see it all. To focus on a few of the highlights and must-sees, then you can’t miss Durdle Door & Lulworth Cove — two gems for the price of one location.

The iconic arched rock is likely what has drawn you to this part of the country, and you won’t be disappointed.

Now that you have had a bit of beach time, it’s time to find the cute towns, and Corfe Castle certainly does the trick. If the fascinating ancient town isn’t enough for you, then then the 12th-century castle that sits in the backdrop over the town should be.

An insider’s tip to truly wrap up the perfect trip to the Jurassic Coast is to visit Chapmans Pool. At low tide, you can rummage the cliffside and find real fossils! It’s also worth staying for sunset as it truly is an amazing place for it.

By Joanna from The World in My Pocket

Whitstable is one of the most beautiful seaside towns easily accessible from London, by both self-driving and public transport. The town is a very popular place for day-trippers but also for people who want to spend a longer time at the seaside.

The beach in Whitstable is covered with pebbles and divided by groynes, which make it less windy when sunbathing.

Whitstable has one of the loveliest harbours in England. It is colourful and vibrant, with both a local market and plenty of restaurants selling oysters and fresh fish. Keep in mind that most of the cafes in the harbour close in the afternoon.

If you want to taste the famous Whitstable native oysters, make sure you are picking a sustainable restaurant such as Wheeler’s Oyster Bar, The Crab and Winkle or The Forge.

The town is famous for its oysters, which are in season from autumn until spring. Centuries ago, the town’s bay was filled with yawls harvesting oysters. The last remaining yawl in Whitstable is displayed as a museum piece, just off the promenade.

Being a popular summer destination, make sure to visit Whitstable responsibly .

White Cliffs of Dover

By Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple

The White Cliffs of Dover are naturally formed high chalk cliffs located near the town Dover, in the southeast of England. The cliffs are 8 miles long and stretch along the Kent coast offering lovely views of the English Channel.

They’re part of Kent Downs, which is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the cliffs are managed by National Trust in England.

The White Cliffs of Dover is an amazing outdoor attraction with endless walking opportunities that suits all fitness levels. It is also said that on a clear day, you can see the views of the French coastline.

The cliffs white colour comes from the sediments of calcium carbonate and they were formed millions of years ago. The cliffs have held significant history since then.

They have acted as a natural defence for the country for centuries since Roman times, and a labyrinth of tunnels were built beneath the cliffs during the second world war, but they were abandoned after the war. Today, the tunnels are accessible to visitors.

The White Cliffs and grasslands are also rich in their flora and fauna and attract many butterflies and birds. You also can’t miss the Exmoor ponies grazing!

The English Riveria

By Steph & Lewis from Book It Let’s Go!

The English Riviera is an area on the south coast of Devon which includes the seaside resorts of Torquay, Brixham, Paignton and the smaller village of Babbacombe.

The whole area has a continental feel about it with pristine golden sandy beaches, beautiful clear water and even palm tree-lined streets. Sometimes referred to as the Torbay area, The English Riviera holds UNESCO Global Geopark status, one of only 7 in the UK and 140 in the world.

Accommodation options are vast ranging from budget camping in the Devonshire countryside to Luxury boutique hotels along the seafront. The English Riviera offers plenty of things to do from exploring the historic Jurassic coastline to visiting the many quaint museums.

Must-see attractions include Britain’s largest model village in Babbacombe and the prehistoric caves at Kent’s Cavern.

Whilst in Devon you must try the amazing award-winning local seafood platters, and no trip to the seaside would be complete without some famous British fish and chips which can be found at the locally owned Rockfish restaurants.

Also, don’t forget to indulge in a Devonshire cream tea, this delicious afternoon treat can be found all across Devon.

Bournemouth

By Izzy from The Gap Decaders

Arguably the most popular seaside destination in England, Bournemouth is a fabulous place to stop on a UK south coast road trip .

With its own warm microclimate and over seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, nine of them with Blue Flags, this is an ideal place to come for a spot of summer sun and fun!

Lively Bournemouth has something for everyone – if you’re visiting with family, the beaches are safe, there are amusements, fun-fairs, aquariums and so many other attractions both in and close to the town to keep people of all ages entertained!

If you’re coming as a couple, then the nightlife is legendary! There are also several really good restaurants, a couple of fantastic galleries and a pedestrianised shopping street to keep you busy.

Everyone will love Bournemouth’s famous Victorian pier, with its zip line, rock climbing wall and lots of places to stop for the obligatory ice cream. If the weather isn’t kind, the indoor activity centre on the pier is also a great place for entertaining little ones!

If you’re planning to stay in Bournemouth for more than a few days, you should also explore the nearby towns of Poole and Swanage, head into the peaceful New Forest or visit the incredible Jurassic coast, all within easy driving of Bournemouth.

By Helen from Helen in Wonderlust

On the North Devon coast lies the small village of Croyde, overlooking beautiful Croyde Bay.

Croyde is a mecca for British holidaymakers and surfers alike, who flock here every year to lie on the beach, catch the waves and experience the laid-back vibe of the area.

Whilst it’s a small place, there are plenty of great things to do in Croyde , such as a hike to Baggy Point, a National Trust landmark, which is part of the South West Coast Path. And you must visit Croyde’s most famous pub, The Thatch for a pint of cider.

From Croyde, you can take the Four Beaches Walk which takes you over to Saunton Sands and offers you one of the best views of the area. Or if you’re feeling less energetic you can take a walk down to the village to get ice cream, a pasty or to browse the shops.

If you want to venture further afield, Croyde is excellently positioned between all North Devon’s major towns, villages, and attractions including Woolacombe, Appledore, Ilfracombe, Bideford, and Westward Ho!

By Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Brighton is the perfect little beach town for a weekend away. This is a popular little town especially for day trips from London.

Brighton is known for its little cafes and shops that attract thousands of visitors every year.

Definitely spend an afternoon by the pier which has a lot of fun activities such as a decently sized amusement park and of course some of the best ocean views around. Have lunch at the Palm Court Restaurant which sits directly on the pier.

Brighton is also perfect for a long walk on the beach especially in the late afternoons when the weather is nice.

Afterwards, head to the Lanes which is Brighton’s Art neighbourhood. Come here for unique shops and little galleries and of course fantastic restaurants and cafes. You’ll find all the best shopping opportunities here.

Then there is the Royal Pavilion which sits in the heart of town. This impressive palace is the perfect photo spot and a beautiful architectural masterpiece.

Isles of Scilly

By Annabel from Smudged Postcard

The Isles of Scilly are a real hidden gem in southern England. Located some 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall, the Scilly Isles are perfect for anyone looking to get away from the hustle of modern life and experience a holiday of yesteryear.

There are five inhabited isles to choose from depending on how remote you’d like to feel. St Mary’s is the main island with a great range of beaches, restaurants and places to stay.

If you’re after luxury, Tresco is the island to head for while St Martin’s offers some of the best beaches in Europe – ones you’re likely to have all to yourself.

The other two islands – Bryher and St Agnes – offer a peaceful retreat, there’s only a handful of places to stay at on each isle.

Visitors cannot bring cars to the Scilly Isles – most people get around on foot, by bike or by boat. There are plenty of water sports on offer from stand up paddleboarding to snorkelling with seals.

There’s also lots of history to explore on the islands with old castles, ancient settlements and tales of shipwrecks in the lovely local museum.

Hastings Old Town

From Suzanne at Sussex Bloggers

If you love quirky, seaside towns then you’ll want to pay a visit to Hastings Old Town. The old fishing town nestles between two steep cliffs overlooking the sea and it’s perfect for a weekend break.

There are loads of cool things to do in Hastings Old Town and the seafront is where it’s all at. Head to the Stade where you’ll notice the towering black net huts. Nearby you’ll find the Fishermen’s Museum, Sea Life Centre and lots of seafood stalls selling prawns, cockles, whelks and the day’s catch.

There’re a host of fish and chip shops, Webbe’s Rock-a-Nore fish restaurant and some good pubs nearby. Hastings Contemporary, a modern gallery, also sits on the Stade and it’s worth paying a visit to Café Boatyard. There’s crazy golf, a pier, and amusement arcades too.

Take the funicular up to the East Hill and visit Hastings Castle for views over the town and out to sea. For kids, the spooky Smuggler’s Caves will give an insight into the history of smuggling in the town.

Explore the Twittens. These little lanes are full of crooked, half-timbered cottages and medieval buildings. George Street and the High Street are lined with cafes, coffee shops and restaurants.

There’s a raft of cool home stores, crafts, antiques and vintage shops too.

The best thing about Hasting Old Town is the vibe but you’ll have to visit to find out about that.

By Suzanne Jones from The Travelbunny

Eastbourne, just along the coast from Brighton, is a fabulous beach town on England’s south coast. Unlike its coastal neighbour, Eastbourne has a relaxed vibe and chilled atmosphere.

There are loads of things to do in Eastbourne . First head to the promenade and pay a visit to the pier for fish and chips and the Art Deco bandstand nearby. If you’re lucky there’ll be a tribute band playing.

If you’re looking for a beach then Eastbourne has four gorgeous miles of it with a stretch of sand at the Holywell end. There are also beach huts, cafes and Italian Gardens along the promenade.

For art lovers, the Towner Art Gallery with its brightly painted exterior usually has a free exhibition. History lovers will get excited about Redoubt Fort, a perfectly preserved Napoleonic Fort and hikers will love that the rolling hills of the South Downs and the Seven Sisters cliffs are right on the doorstep.

Eastbourne hosts some top events including the Eastbourne International Tennis Tournament, and Airbourne, the International Air Show so time your visit right and you can enjoy these top events too.

By Rich from RJ on Tour

The town of St Ives is towards the Western End of Cornwall and is absolutely stunning. St Ives is a seaside town that has become a haven for all things art, and a great destination for foodies.

There are many nice places to dine out, including the oldest pub in town, The Sloop Inn. The Sloop serves fresh local seafood daily from their specials-board.

The town has options for beaches, all of which are sandy and well maintained, they also all have fantastic views across the bay. There are many art galleries in the town including the Tate St Ives, smaller independent galleries and also many artists painting throughout the town.

The whole sea wall is a great place for views, as is the coastal path towards St Ives Head. St Ives harbour has a resident seal, which is great for nature lovers. Visitors can also go on a boat trip to seal island to see a seal colony and enjoy the local coastline.

To summarise there are lots of things to see and do in St Ives , the town is rather beautiful, hence the reason it attracts so many artists.

South Downs National Park

By Claire from Stoked to Travel

The beautiful South Downs National Park stretches across the whole of the south of England from Winchester in the West, to Eastbourne in the East.

The entire South Downs National Park has plenty to offer, including dozens of beautiful walking routes, ranging from easy to strenuous. You can even walk (or cycle) the entire length of the national park, along the 100-mile long South Downs Way National Trail, or just opt to do a section of the route.

Make sure to look out for some rare species too, including the Adonis blue butterfly, and all 12 of the amphibian and reptile species native to the UK.

The section from Lewes to Alfriston is particularly lovely, and this market town and quaint village are without doubt two of the best places to visit in Sussex .

You could enjoy a relaxing breakfast and a slow explore of Lewes, before heading into the stunning British countryside to wander the South Downs Way towards Alfriston. Here you can enjoy a delicious afternoon tea at one of the charming local tea houses.

From Alfriston, you can walk a few more miles to Cuckmere Haven to enjoy its coastal scenery.

The South Downs National Park is also just one of 16 ‘International Dark Sky Reserves’, meaning it’s one of the best places in the world to take in the night sky on a clear evening.

By Suzanne from Meandering Wild

Wells is located in the heart of Somerset and is the smallest city in England. Despite its small size, it has more than enough to explore. The size makes it perfect for exploring on foot and while there is lots to see and do it is not an overwhelming choice.

At the top of the busy high street is the cathedral with its ornate ceiling and medieval clock. Tucked around the back of the cathedral is Vicar’s close one of the longest inhabited streets in Europe.

As if this isn’t enough through a large gated arch in the Market Place is the Bishop’s Palace. This has been home to the Bishop of Bath and Wells through the centuries and today is partially ruined. It is fortified with thick walls and a large moat that is home to resident swans. These swans had learnt to ring a bell when they wanted feeding although the current generation are less willing to participate.

Wells sits on the edge of the Mendip Hills which are home to Cheddar Gorge and the extensive limestone caves which run under the hills. This is a great escape from the city if needed.

Isle of Wight

By Nichola from Globalmouse Travels

The Isle of Wight is one of those often overlooked destinations that is perfect for a getaway in southern England. It feels a little like going back in time, but in a good way.

There’s a calmness here, a friendliness, a warmth that holidays of the past convey. Don’t be fooled into thinking there isn’t anything to do here though, it may have a slightly slower pace but it’s still packed full of great activities and days out.

There’s history in the bucket load from the historic Carisbrook Castle which is wonderful to wind your way through, to Queen Victoria’s seaside retreat at Osborne House.

The beaches of the Isle of Wight are legendary too, Ventnor with its ice cream coloured beach huts is adorable and Sandown Beach is great for coming to do a bit of fossil hunting.

If you’re planning a family holiday to the Isle of Wight then kids (and adults!) of all ages will love Blackgang Chine, the fun theme park on the island. Come here for as long as you can as there’s plenty to do whatever you’re looking to get out of a holiday in the south.

New Forest National Park

By Mal from Raw Mal Roams

Situated mainly in Hampshire, the New Forest National Park is often an overlooked holiday destination, yet an excellent place to spend a weekend in Southern England. Whether you’re into hiking, cycling or fine dining, the new Forest has something for everyone.

The New Forest is also one of the most favourite things to do near Southampton .

The park boasts rich wildlife with fluffy donkeys and wild bores roaming freely. But the main attraction and often the reason people visit the place is the New Forest ponies living within the park.

Lyndhurst is the unofficial capital of the park and an excellent place to base yourself to explore the surrounding areas.

Have a cream tea in one of the towns traditional tea rooms or head to La Pergola for quality Italian dining al fresco. If you prefer to be closer to nature, stay in one of the New Forest’s campsites, such as Ashurst Campsite and spend the night under the stars.

If you’re an adventurer, try New Forest Water Park, where the whole family can spend a great time doing various water activities such as Kayaking, SUPing, wakeboarding and conquering an obstacle course.

And for a more sophisticated getaway, book yourself into a hotel stay with a spa and fine dining such as Careys Manor in Brockenhurst.

By Mark from Wyld Family Travel

Canterbury is located near the southeast coastline of England. Canterbury is a popular stopping point for those on their way to crossing the English Channel to France by ferry.

Canterbury’s most popular attraction is the historic Canterbury Cathedral first built in the 5th century when Christianity made its way to the English shores.

The surrounding old town area is filled with medieval buildings and cobblestone streets. You can explore the ruins of Canterbury Castle, or learn the history of the town on one of many local tours.

For Sports lovers the Kent cricket club play their matches out of Canterbury. The club has produced many international players for England.

A short drive from Canterbury will find you standing on the White Cliffs of Dover or you could go and have a sandwich in the town of Sandwich.

By Jumana from Planet Hopper Girl

Penzance is a popular market town of Cornwall, which is historically known for being the last stop for the railway to Cornwall. Accessibility from the rest of England via railway makes it a very popular vacation destination, amongst those who seek to enjoy the Cornish coast.

Penzance is a great spot to book accommodation for your Cornwall Road Trip , as well as it is almost equal distance from most of the popular landmarks to see in Cornwall.

Penzance harbour is charming with some nice eateries and hotels around. Chapel street here is worth a stroll to experience the old town here which carries eighteenth-century charm with hotels, pubs and shops and a chapel of course.

The Penlee House Gallery and museum is a Victorian house turned into a gallery where you can see art exhibitions.

Penzance is also home to the Morrab Gardens where you can see diverse plants that are even tropical like the palm trees and banana plants for that ultimate holiday vibe.

The quaint town of Mousehole is closer to Penzance for a visit from here, which is very popular among tourists as well as locals.

Apart from the top attractions in Penzance, do enjoy a Cornish cream tea and coastal walk here when you visit Cornwall.

Leeds Castle

By Jacs from Flashpacking Family

Leeds Castle is situated in Leeds in the southeast of England and is easy to reach by car or by train from London.

This stunning moated castle is one of the most impressive castles in Kent and is nicknamed the loveliest castle in the world.

It dates back to 1119, however, there is not much left of the original castle. The main structure that you see today is thanks to significant modifications made by owners such as King Henry VIII who lived here with his first wife, Catherine of Aragon and more recently by Sir Richard Smythe.

Being one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country, there is lots to see and do at Leeds Castle, particularly during the school holidays when they run special events.

Start by taking a guided or a self-guided tour of the castle to learn more about its history and its famous inhabitants.

After a castle tour, head outside to explore the extensive and magnificent gardens where you will find an intricate maze, falconry displays and archery lessons.

If you are visiting Leeds Castle with kids, there are also two fabulous playgrounds which are both themed around the castle.

If you have ever wanted to stay in a castle, they offer B&B accommodation in the castle as well as cottages in the grounds and in the summer months there are knight’s glamping tents.

Charlestown

By Heather from Conversant Traveller

The small port village of Charlestown is a true hidden gem tucked away on the southern coast near St Austell. Visiting this historic sea-faring settlement is one of the most unique things to do in Cornwall , because it’s here that you’ll find pirate ships!

The harbour is home to the Shipwreck Centre, which includes a museum full of artefacts and legendary tales of adventures on the high seas. There are usually a couple of tall ships docked here too, which are sometimes open to visitors if you fancy walking around on deck like the pirates of old.

Charlestown has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV series, most notably for Poldark, so you may recognise the harbour from the screen.

Charlestown is famed for its fresh seafood, and there are plenty of pubs and restaurants where you can try local Cornish delicacies, straight from the sea.

There are superb coastal walks along the cliffs too, leading to secluded beaches with crystal-clear water that’s great for swimming and snorkelling on warm days.

By Jackie from Jou Jou Travels

Winchester is part of Hampshire county and is located an hour and a half away from London by train.

People love Winchester for its history, village-like feel but still in close proximity to London, culture, and highly rated schools. In fact, it was named the best and happiest place to live in the UK.

It is famous for its medieval church, the Winchester Cathedral. This church is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe and it’s stunning inside.

The Great Hall is another noteworthy spot – it’s the last surviving part of Winchester Cathedral. A great and calm place to relax is directly in front of the cathedral, where there is a large park.

Also, stop by Winchester College, a prestigious college located just behind Winchester Cathedral.

A trip to Winchester wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Wolvesey Castle, a ruined bishop’s palace. It’s a very unique place and the walk up to it is very nice with lots of scenic landscapes on the way.

By Unman from Brown Boy Travels

Salisbury is a quintessentially English city that offers a lot to see and do in such a small time. It has sites like Salisbury Cathedral, the Magna Carta, Stonehenge and Langdon castle and tons of beautiful Tudor houses and ghost stories.

Getting to Salisbury takes just a 2-hour train ride from London Waterloo or Clapham Junction stations (South Western Railways) and is very easy.

Salisbury is fairly small and it is quite easy to explore it on foot. In fact, that’s the best way to enjoy the facades of so many Tudor houses and building in the city centre.

Taking a free walking tour will also get you some interesting stories about haunted houses and buildings. Some of these are as mundane as libraries or departmental stores.

Visiting the Salisbury cathedral is another must-do. Not only because it is grand but it hosts the only document of the Magna Carta in the world.

Perhaps the most important reason to visit Salisbury is to visit the world-famous Stonehenge, it is quite easy to get there through shuttles that run from the city throughout the day.

Last but not the least, if you get time do visit the beautiful Langdon castle and its estate. It is open only 28 days a year which you can check on their website but the castle and its grounds are Spector summer picnic.

Salisbury makes a great place to see in Southern England whether you love ghost stories or a nice English pub in the evening, this is a city that won’t let you get bored.

By Paul from Anywhere We Roam

Built on history and bursting with tradition, Oxford is one of the top places to see in Southern England. Inside the grandeur of golden-hued architecture, English tradition is found in imposing gothic chapels, exquisitely decorated libraries and most importantly, atmospheric pubs.

Many of the colleges are open to the public and visiting them is one of the unmissable things to do in Oxford . Christ Church College is the wealthiest and most impressive to see with the dining room used as inspiration for the Harry Potter movies.

Exeter College is much less grand but free to enter and it offers the best views over the Radcliff Camera – the dome-shaped building in the centre of town.

Oxford also has world-class museums. The Ashmolean has paintings by Rubens and Picasso, while the Pitt River’s Museum is a quirky collection of strange treasures from all over the world.

A visit to Oxford is not complete without a pint in a local pub. One of the best is the Turf Tavern which dates back to the 14th century. The warren of rooms and hidden nooks is the ideal place to fit in with the locals and enjoy a classic English tradition.

By Lavinia from Continent Hop

The Lizard peninsula in Cornwall is one of the most stunning landscapes in all of England. Colourful fishing ports are scattered around, and the smell of delicious and fresh fish and chips, scones and Cornish pasties will make your tummy rumble!

Mullion Cove is where you’ll find thick harbour walls surrounded by black volcanic rock. Roskilly’s farm is where you can see and enjoy fresh ice cream being made. You can learn more about the maritime history at Lizard lighthouse and enjoy spectacular views too.

You can also go diving and kayaking in this Area of Outstanding Beauty (AONB)

By Angela from Exploring Dorset

Poole is a beautiful coastal town in Dorset dating back to the Iron Age. Home to Poole Harbour, the largest natural harbour in Europe.

A popular attraction in Poole is Brownsea Island. Accessible by ferry and managed by the National Trust, the island attracts thousands of visitors every year. It’s a great place to spot the near-extinct red squirrel.

Ferries to the island run from Poole Quay, which is almost a day out in itself. With a huge variety of pubs, restaurants and shops to discover. You can also take a boat trip around the harbour and see the sights of the Jurassic Coast.

If beaches are a priority for you, you won’t be disappointed with the award-winning sandy beaches such as Sandbanks. Home to the rich and famous, the beach is a great family attraction all year round.

More inland, the town has lots of green space to explore with water sports and a large shopping complex in the heart of the town. You won’t be short of things to do in Poole if you decide to visit.

And that’s our top places to visit in South England! How many have you been to?

If you liked it, pin it!

Sonja - Migrating Miss

Sonja is from New Zealand but now lives in Scotland with her husband and two little boys, after having lived in 5 other countries along the way including the USA, Australia, Canada, and Spain. Travelling has always been her passion and she has now made it her full-time job and worked in the industry for the last 8 years. She shares her living abroad experiences and best tips to make your travel experiences the best they can be!

2 thoughts on “ 30 Best Places to Visit in South England ”

This is a a great list I am planning my trip to England and you gave me some great ideas to put on my itinerary.

I loved reading your blog, it is so well written, would love to see more like this in future as well.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Sign up for tips, info, and travel antics delivered once a month to your inbox. Go on.

35 best places to visit on the South Coast of England!

Welcome to the enchanting South of England! Whether you’re yearning for a taste of the salty sea air along the South Coast UK or keen to meander through quaint countryside villages, there’s an adventure waiting for you here in southern England.

From Brighton’s bustling pier to the peaceful New Forest National Park , there’s an incredible variety of places to explore. Picture yourself sailing on Bournemouth’s sparkling waters or wandering through the charming Cotswolds , each place offers its own unique charm.

Navigating through this region is a breeze! With well-connected rail networks, hopping from one exciting place to another has never been easier. Driving through the rolling hills is also an option, but be sure to plan for parking if you’re exploring smaller destinations. Cornwall , with its winding country roads, can be a bit tricky, so don’t shy away from trains and buses for these routes.

Now, you’re probably wondering about the must-visit places in the south of England, right? Well, you’re in luck! Our guide will take you through some of the most breathtaking spots, from hidden gems to popular favourites, each with their own stories to tell and experiences to offer. Whether you’re planning a seaside day out or hunting for the most beautiful places in South East England, we’ve got you covered.

Get ready to dive into the charm of the south coast of England, find the best spots for your perfect day out in the South East, and unearth some of the unusual places to visit in South East England. So buckle up for the ride and let’s start exploring the South England highlights! Happy adventuring!

What areas are in the south of England?

The south of England typically includes the regions of Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, Berkshire, Oxfordshire , Wiltshire, Bristol, Dorset , Devon , and Cornwall . It may also include the counties of Surrey and Gloucestershire. Additionally, the Greater London area is also often considered to be part of southern England.

South England – car hire

Check out our guide to the  best car hire company in the UK  or simply explore the options directly on  discovercars.com  if you need a car to visit the best places on the South Coast of England.

Is Southern England a good option for a UK weekend trip or a staycation?

Yes, Southern England is an excellent option for a UK weekend trip or a staycation . The region offers a wide range of attractions and experiences that are sure to appeal to visitors of all ages and interests.

For a weekend trip , you could explore one of Southern England’s vibrant cities, such as London, Bath, or Oxford. These cities are packed with historic landmarks, museums, galleries, and cultural attractions, as well as great restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing break, you could head to the countryside, where you’ll find picturesque villages, scenic walks, and cozy pubs. The Cotswolds , the New Forest , and the South Downs are all popular destinations for a weekend getaway.

For a longer staycation , you could explore more of Southern England’s attractions, such as Stonehenge , Windsor Castle , or the Jurassic Coast . You could also combine a city break with some time in the countryside, or take a road trip along the scenic coastal roads.

Whatever your interests and preferences, Southern England offers plenty of options for a memorable and enjoyable weekend trip or staycation in the UK .

Holiday destinations south of England

The south of England is home to many popular holiday destinations, here are a few examples:

• The Isle of Wight : An island located off the south coast of England, known for its picturesque beaches, historic sites, and outdoor activities.
• Devon : A county in the south west of England known for its beautiful coastline, picturesque countryside and historic towns like Exeter, Plymouth and Torquay.
• Cornwall : A county in the south west of England known for its stunning coastal landscapes, picturesque fishing villages, and popular resorts like St Ives and Newquay.
• Dorset : A county in the south west of England known for its beautiful coastline, picturesque countryside and historic towns like Sherborne and Dorchester.
• Sussex: A county in the south east of England known for its beautiful coastline, picturesque countryside and historic towns like Chichester and Brighton.
• Kent: A county in the south east of England known for its beautiful coastline, picturesque countryside and historic towns like Canterbury and Royal Tunbridge Wells.
• Hampshire: A county in the south east of England known for its beautiful coastline, picturesque countryside and historic towns like Portsmouth and Southampton.
• The Cotswolds : An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and charming stone cottages.

Quirky places to stay in South England

The south of England is home to many unique and quirky places to stay, here are a few examples:

• The Treehouse, East Sussex: A secluded treehouse that is nestled in the woods and offers a secluded and peaceful getaway.
• The Tipi, Hampshire: A secluded tipi that is set in the heart of the New Forest , surrounded by nature and offering a truly unique camping experience.
• The Yurt, Dorset: A traditional yurt that is set in the beautiful Dorset countryside, offering a unique and comfortable glamping experience.
• The Houseboat, London: A houseboat that is moored on the River Thames in London, offering a unique and peaceful place to stay in the heart of the city.
• The Shepherd’s Hut, Wiltshire: A traditional shepherd’s hut that is set in the rolling countryside of Wiltshire, offering a unique and rustic stay.
• The Lighthouse, Sussex: A converted lighthouse that offers spectacular views of the coast and the sea, and a unique and historic place to stay.
• The Gypsy Caravan, Kent: A traditional gypsy caravan that is set in a secluded spot in Kent, offering a unique and authentic experience.
• The Hobbit House, Devon: A unique and cozy hobbit-inspired house that is set in the beautiful Devon countryside , offering a truly unique and magical stay.
• The Converted Windmill, Berkshire: A converted windmill that offers a unique and historic place to stay, complete with modern amenities and spectacular views.

South of England’s top places:

Explore the best places to visit on South coast of England and top ideas for things to do in South England:

Top 35 places to visit in South England:

Best places to go in South England? London is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in the world. There are so many things to see and do that you will struggle to fit them into a single visit.

Yes, you can visit London in one day , at least the central part of the city. But you might be best served by making a list of the top few you want to see and enjoying those rather than rushing from place to place. Some of the top landmarks in London to choose from include Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, The London Eye, the Science and Natural History Museum. Of course, there are many more to see too including the top romantic places to visit in London .

There is a lot more to London than the landmarks. There are wonderful restaurants, exciting shows and performances, parks and of course, shopping.

Without a doubt, London is one of the best places to visit in southern England!

2. Burnham Beeches

Best things to do South England? Part of Buckinghamshire, just to the West of London, Burnham Beeches is another fantastic location in the South of England. It has a bit of a reputation in the film and television world, considering that several big titles have had scenes shot in this very area.

These are not limited to the following: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Robin Hood Prince of Thieves, The Princess Bride, and First Knight. Suffice to say, it’s an atmospheric place to visit.

So, is Burnham Beeches on your list of beautiful places to visit south England?

3. Castle Combe

Looking for top South England countryside and villages? England has long been known for its myths, its legends, and its fairy tales. Castle Combe is a village in Southern England that has been called one of the prettiest villages that England has to offer.

This civil parish lies within the Cotswolds , and its Area of Natural Beauty in Wiltshire, England. It’s fairly close to the city of London and could be your next day trip destination that takes you out of London’s hustle and bustle for a few hours.

The fantasy vibe of the village is enticing, to say the least.

4. Richmond Park

Where to go South of England? Richmond Park is located just outside of London. It provides a beautiful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is owned by The Crown but is open to the public and also operates as a nature reserve. On holidays and warm days, you will find the park filled with families enjoying a day out. You can enjoy the excited energy of the crowds, or if you are looking for a bit of tranquillity, it’s easy to find a quiet spot with all the open space available.

With so many things to do in southern England, Richmond Park is one of our favourite places to visit in the south UK and top woods near London !

There are a few activities that you should tick off the list while in the park. The first is to take afternoon tea at Pembrooke Lodge. Once used by prime ministers to conduct business, it is now a popular wedding venue.

Next up is climbing King Henry’s Mound. To the west, you get panoramic views of Thames Valley. To the east lies the City. With a telescope, you see St Pauls Cathedral through the carefully maintained keyhole in the hedge.

Finally, take the time to enjoy the natural life in the garden. Smell the flowers. Watch the deer. Let the natural beauty refresh you in one of the best parks in London .

Where to find the best UK South Coast attractions? A surfer town in the south of England, Newquay has long stretches of sand and plenty of places to relax. Known for Fistral Beach and the Boardmasters Surfing Championships that are held there, this Cornish town is a great seafront getaway with plenty of water-based activities.

For a wonderful afternoon, visit the Blue Reef Aquarium. This establishment has its own underwater tunnel; a feature that is always a hit with young guests.

6. Seven Sisters

Top South England places to visit? Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a week or a bit longer, there are many great places to visit in southern England. And Seven Sisters is one of them!

Seven Sisters is the name for a stretch of cliffs that runs from Seaford to Eastbourne. The cliffs as the iconic white chalk cliffs that line the English Channel. There is a footpath that runs between the two towns. It’s about a 20km walk, so make sure you go prepared and with sturdy footwear.

Seven Sisters cliff really is one of the nice places to visit south east England and home to some of the best beaches near me from London !

If you want to see the cliffs but are worried about the walk or the weather, there are other options. There are plenty of bus tours that will take you around the area, giving you the chance to see the cliffs without risking the British weather. Taking a tour will also give you the opportunity to learn more about the fascinating history of the area.

Getting to the Seven Sisters cliffs is relatively easy. There are trains to both Seaford and Eastbourne, as well as bus service. There are also plenty of parking spots along the coast if you have your own car.

Amazing things to do in the South of England? Part of Berkshire, Windsor is a historical town found along the River Thames. Located just west of London, in the southeast of England, Windsor is home to one of the British Royal Family’s residences.

Windsor Castle is certainly a highlight of the town of Windsor , but it is not the only sight worth seeing if one were to visit. However, if the castle is what brings you to southern England, know that you can take a public tour of some of the 11 th century castle.

8. Shere Village

Planning days out South East England? A village so quintessentially English that it charms all of its guests with its traditional features and postcard-like looks. Shere is located in the Surrey Hills, which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and can be found in Tillingbourne Valley (between Guildford and Dorking).

But it’s more than the beauty of Shere that keeps its villagers happy. There’s a real sense of community that has been around for hundreds of years, which may have started with William Bray, who did so very much for the village, and whose family are still involved today.

Looking for great places to visit in south-east England? Head out to Kent!

Margate is a seaside town about 90 minutes outside of London. It has a place in pop culture for its appearance in ‘Only Fools and Horses’. While it is a relatively small town, there is a surprisingly large number of things to see and do.

There are many great things to do in south east England, and spending a weekend UK getaway in Margate is one of them!

Dreamland is the amusement park in Margate. It is filled with some amazing vintage rides and activities, including, a roller disco. Entry to the park is free, once inside you can pay for unlimited rides, or just pay as you go. As well as the vintage rides there are plenty of great modern thrill rides too.

If you want to get in a little bit of culture on your trip to the seaside, then a visit to the Turner Contemporary should hit the spot. The gallery has rolling shows featuring exciting and creative exhibits.

What trip to the seaside would be complete without a stop at the beach? There are several to choose from. Most tourist head to Margate Sands, but if you want something a little quieter then head for Botany Bay. Don’t forget your bucket and spade because these are some wonderful sandy beaches.

10. St Ives

Top things to do on the South Coast UK? One of Cornwall’s seaside towns , St Ives has been named one of the best family holiday destinations by Coast magazine, as well as being noted as one of Europe’s best beach locations. St Ives is located just north of Penzance and has its own train station conveniently placed near the coastline.

St Ives doesn’t only focus on its seaside links, though. The town is known for its art and museums, with the Tate gallery focusing on British artists above any others.

What to visit South England? Rye is a quaint historic town in East Sussex. Often overlooked by tourists, this town has a lot to offer. There is an abundance of quirky shops and characterful pubs all surrounded by a town with a lot of history. 

Some of the locals call it one of the best places to visit on south coast of England and is hard to disagree with them!

It’s hard to wander far in Rye without running into a historic landmark . There is the Ypres Tower, the monastery, the Land Gate and of course Rye Castle . There is one house in West Street, which you can explore which was home, at one time, to both Henry James and E F Benson.

If you have the chance, it is worth taking a tour of the town. The guides are sure to tell you, very proudly that, at one point, Rye was the smuggling capital of England. This has left its mark on the architecture and character of the town.

Without a doubt, you can call Rye one of the best places to visit near London .

12. Goring on Thames

Things to do in South of England? Goring-on-Thames is a village that is situated on the River Thames in Southern England. It’s approximately 5.5 miles south of Wallingford , and its location makes tourism in the area quite ideal. This is because there are several different villages and small towns along the River Thames, so a day trip to Goring-on-Thames could turn into a tour of the river’s small locales.

Goring , itself, is a lovely civil parish that local residents have agreed is perfect for young families with children.

13. Brighton

Looking for the best places to visit in England? Brighton is one of the prettiest cities in the south of England and it’s visited by many Brits and tourists from around the world.

The city located in the south of England really is famous internationally – you will see many tourists there and if you hear Südengland, Sud de l’Angleterre or Sydengland you know there are many German, French or Danish tourists too.

Brighton is a vibrant, bustling city, just an hour’s train ride outside of London. It’s small enough that it is easy to get around but big enough that you won’t get bored. One of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive is the smell of the sea. Brighton is, after all, a quintessential British seaside town.

Brighton has lots to offer in terms of shops and restaurants. You can’t go wrong with fish ‘n’ chips near the seafront. If you fancy something a little different, then try one of the many vegan and vegetarian restaurants or seek out the zero-waste restaurant.

While you are down at the seafront, don’t forget to visit Brighton Pier Palace, which has plenty of rides and fun for the whole family. The Royal Pavilion is not to be missed, with its mix of Indian and Chinese styling. Then, why not get a taste of the deep at Sea Life Brighton?

Where to find beautiful places South England? One of the many market towns of England, you can find Marlow in the South of England, just a few miles from Cookham. The walk between Marlow and Cookham is 5.5 miles of wonderful scenery, and you can take part in the Cookham River Circular Walk to see more of the River Thames.

There’s also Bisham Woods right by Marlow , which has even more walking trails for visitors to enjoy. Essentially, Marlow is a bit of a walking village which leads to more walking routes. It’s great for spending a week exploring the country!

15. New Forest

Planning a South England trip? From all the places to go in south-east England, the New Forest probably is the most magical one!

The New Forest has long been a holiday destination. It’s around 90 minutes outside of London. The national park is filled with a wide range of natural life. You can fall in love with the peace and quiet of the ancient woods and the lush glades, then take in the majestic and lonely moors and heathlands. Among all these varied landscapes you will find wildlife roaming free. You never know when you might spot ponies, deer or even donkeys roaming the wilds.

There are many things to see and do in the New Forest . There are plenty of walking and cycling routes, with more than you’ll be able to explore in one trip. There are also plenty of attractions as well, such as Peppa Pig World, Paulton’s Park and the National Motor Museum, to name just a few. The New Forest is just waiting for you to explore and find its abundant trove of treasures.

16. Canterbury

Top places in South England to visit? A World Heritage Site that is protected by UNESCO, Canterbury has plenty to offer to historians and lovers of history, alike. There’s Westgate Towers, England’s biggest medieval gateway; Canterbury Cathedral, St Martin’s Church, and St. Augustine’s Abbey, which are all protected locations; and the unique Crooked House of Canterbury.

This list highlights just a few of Canterbury’s amazing attractions, for this South East city of England has plenty more to offer than an introduction can fit to tell you about.

17. Isle of Portland

Stunning places to see South England? One of the many islands around the UK, The Isle of Portland is a small, tied island that is 4 miles long by 1.7 miles wide. You can walk around the whole island in around four hours without any issues, setting your own leisurely pace to take in the views of the area.

Interestingly enough, this little island in the South of England is the core of the World Heritage Jurassic Coast ! It’s certainly a day trip destination, with a beach and road that joins it to the mainland of England. No boat is needed!

18. Isle of Wight

Looking for things to do in south England? As one of the most beautiful places in south England, the Isle of Wight really has to be top on the southern UK list!

It’s really easy to get to the Isle of Wight . You can cross the channel by plane, ferry or even hovercraft, and there are plenty of trains and coaches that will take you to the port. Once on the island, you will be bowled over by just how much there is to do on this picturesque island.

Looking for interesting things to do on the Isle of Wight ? Great news! The island is a great spot for walking and cycling. Its varied landscape will keep you enthralled as you explore. It’s so good that there is an annual walking festival. When you are done walking, there are beaches to explore and great food and drink to enjoy. There is always something going on, on the Isle of Wight.

Would you visit this great European island ?

19. Old Amersham

Best places to visit in South East England? Founded in the beginning of the 13 th century, Old Amersham and, consequently, Amersham are recognised as two of the best places to live in the Chiltern Hills area . You can find “new” Amersham above Old Amersham , with the latter sitting down in the Misbourne Valley.

The town is a market town with a long history. Some of the oldest buildings in the area are around 700 years old and are still standing thanks to the dedication of the town’s inhabitants.

20. Dorset Jurassic Coast

Best south coast holiday destinations? South East England is one of the most visited regions of the United Kingdom – and there is a reason. This southern region is simply stunning!

Dorset is one of the most beautiful counties in England . Located along the southern coast of England it has miles of beaches to explore. If you head a little inland from the coast, you will find acres of unspoilt countryside.

Dorset has a lot to offer any visitors. There are exciting and exhilarating family attractions like Monkey World, Adventure Wonderland, Lemur Landing and many amazing Dorset festivals .

If you are looking for a slower pace, then you could explore the castles and stately homes and gardens that litter the county instead. If you want something a little more mentally engaging, then you can try one of the many museums where you can get your chance to board the Concorde or even see Tutankhamun’s tomb.

One of the best places to visit in South-East England – a must-have on any UK bucket list !

21. Lizard Peninsula

Planning South England vacations? Found in West Cornwall in Southern England, Lizard isn’t an extremely well-known part of the country, but it has several elements that make the area worth visiting.

A peninsula is a section of land that is surrounded by a body of water, with just one connection to the mainland. Lizard Point is protected by the National Trust, and is located near Lizard village (or, “The Lizard”). The peninsula’s name comes from an old Cornish word meaning “fortress”.

22. Exmoor National Park

Need ideas for beautiful places to visit south west England? This is one of the best places to visit on the South coast of England!

Exmoor is 267 square miles of wild countryside. It is located in the south-west of England in the counties of Devon and Somerset. The landscape is varied and interesting as it could be described as being in a semi-natural state. Over the years, human agriculture has had some impact on the landscape but has not taken it over. The result is a unique landscape , unlike anywhere else in the world.

There are plenty of ways to get out and enjoy the beauty of the area. Walking, cycling and horse riding are all great ways to go out and see the wildlife that roams the area. If you are lucky, you might get to see the famous wild Exmoor Ponies or the wild red deer.

23. Bibury village

Top South England things to do? Bibury Village is part of the Cotswolds . At first, it may seem like every other Cotswolds village that exists in the area, but Bibury Village is recognised as the most beautiful of all of these. You may recognise the village from films such as Stardust and Bridget Jones’ Diary.

An interesting fact revolves around the many tourists that the village hosts from Japan. The reason that Japanese guests come to stay in Bibury Village is because Emperor Hirohito once stayed there during his tour of Europe.

24. Dartmoor National Park

Best places on the south coast of England? Dartmoor National Park is found in the heart of Devon . It is filled with rugged woodland and wide-open spaces, deep valley lined with trees and breathtaking granite tors. The landscape is extreme and yet beautiful.

The Dartmoor ponies are an iconic feature of the area. These ponies are semi-wild and roam all across the moor. There is nothing more joyful than watching the ponies playing and frisking across the hills.

Dartmoor is a very welcoming place. There are lots of places to explore with the whole family, including the dogs. In fact, this is one of the most dog-friendly places in Devon .

As well as the wild open spaces which you can enjoy at your own pace, there are plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy.

25. Turville Village

Where to find top South East England attractions? Within Southern England’s own Buckinghamshire , Turville Village sits within Chiltern Hills , just a handful of miles away from High Wycombe.

The most famous part of Turville Village is perhaps the Cobstone Windmill, which was featured in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and is still a huge source of tourism today. It’s a bit of a steep climb from the church to the windmill, but the views that show Turville Village and the greenery of Chiltern Hills on the horizon are more than worth it.

26. Bristol

Looking for top south England attractions? If south England cities are on your travel bucket list , then Bristol should be there as it’s one of the most popular cities in the southern region of the country.

Bristol is a bustling city that celebrates its historical roots in quirky and unexpected ways. There are not many cities where one of the most popular tours are given from hot air balloons. When your feet are on the ground, you can explore the cobbled streets finding performances around unexpected corners and art everywhere you look.

As a shopping destination, the city has a lot to offer. There are plenty of High Street fashion and big-name stores. But, there is also a healthy mix of unique and boutique stores to pick up some keepsakes as you explore the city.

As you might expect from a multicultural city, there are loads of great places to eat. Whether you are into street food or superstar chefs, you’ll find something to whet your appetite.

So, is Bristol on your list of the best places to visit in south England?

27. Cheddar Gorge

Best things to do in south west England? Hire a car in the UK and hit the road in south England! Thre are many great roads to drive on in southern England. One of our favourite ones is located in Somerset. Although the might suggest it, it is NOT made from cheese 😉

Cheddar Gorge is a stunning natural landmark, located between Bath and Bristol. The gorge and cave complex is filled with prehistory and amazing rock formations. You can easily spend a full day here and not see everything.

There are several show caves to explore. There are audio tours available so that you don’t miss any of the unique features that are hidden away. In one of the caves, there are multimedia displays and presentations that tell the story of early man and the area.

We have to be honest – we LOVE Cheddar Gorge and it really is one of the best places to visit south England! 🙂

There are cliffs to climb and caves to explore, all of which you can do with a guide and proper safety equipment. If you fancy something a little less adrenaline-fueled, then you could visit the museum of prehistory to learn about how early man survived the ravages of the ice age and how it created the landscape you see today.

28. Winchester

Looking for the best Southern England cities to visit? Home to a Cathedral that is famous all over the world, Winchester is situated in the south of England. If you seek medieval history and have a penchant for learning about ancient monarchs, then this is the perfect locale for your next tourism day trip.

Interestingly enough, Winchester was once the capital of England and remained as such for a number of years – until the 11 th century when William the Conqueror arrived.

29. Cornwall

Best places to visit in south west England? Alongside being the region with the warmest average temperature in the country, Cornwall is filled with the most beautiful places to visit in England. Millions of people visiting this souther region can’t be wrong! 🙂

It really is one of the top south England holiday destinations!

Cornwall thrives on its tourist trade. This means that wherever you go you will receive a friendly welcome and you will find things to do. The landscape is beautiful, and there is no lack of beaches. 

Cornwall has a lot of shorelines, so it really is easy to find a great beach. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy when you get there, such as surfing, sailing, and paddleboarding. You can also find plenty of family-friendly beaches, where you can set up your towels, and enjoy a day of sunbathing, paddling and exploring the tide pools.

There are plenty of attractions to explore, like animal sanctuaries, tin mines and museums. There is also an abundance of small villages to find and explore all with their own quaint charm.

30. Cotswolds

Looking for places to visit in South England? Why not try the Cotswolds ? This area is one of the top south places to visit!

The Cotswolds refers to an area of around 800 square miles. While each of the Cotswolds villages has its own personality, they are all brought together by their uniting features. You will find honey gold stones and rolling hills in every corner of the Cotswolds. From Castle Combe village to Broadway Tower – there are many great things to see in the Cotswolds !

The villages that dot the Cotswolds all feature the local stone, making them delightful to see, as are the castles, palaces, and country homes that are sprinkled throughout the area. Looking for something special in Southern England? Visit Bourton on the Water Model Village – it’s one of the most popular places to visit!

As well as the bustling market towns and quaint villages, there are nature reserves and arboreta that are known worldwide.

We have been to many of the Cotswolds villages as this region in southern England really a few nice places to visit 😉

31. The Minack Theatre

South England areas worth to visit? Raised above the Atlantic Ocean by one of the many naturally-occurring clifftops, the Minack Theatre is a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed by any individual with a love for architecture.

As an outdoor theatre that echoes the great and ancient stadiums of Rome, there’s something very extraordinary about this South England theatre. The Minack Theatre was originally built by just one woman and was originally the scene of the local village’s production of The Tempest. What became an open-air theatre was once the garden of Rowena Cade’s home.

If you think to visit south England, then Oxford will be very high of your list of places to visit in south England!

Oxford is one of the best cities to visit in England besides London. It is very popular amongst students but also families.

Oxford is a city steeped in history. Most famous for the university, it is also a place filled with fascinating architecture and plenty of photo spots. Culture is definitely waiting for you around every corner. The city is bursting with museums and galleries. Due to its location, Oxford is a great idea for a day trip from London .

There is so much to see and experience in the city that a tour is a great option. There are loads of walking tours to choose from as well as bus tours of the city. This way, you can see and learn everything there is to know and avoid missing the hidden gems of this ancient city.

Once the sun goes down, you will find that as Oxford is a university town, it also has a bustling nightlife. There are plenty of pubs, bars and clubs to visit or even just some fantastic restaurants. You should make sure to indulge in this aspect of the city as well during your visit.

33. Chiltern Hills

Best places to visit in south England? We absolutely love this region in southern England! From visiting stunning towns like Old Amserham or Marlow to spending a day in Wendover Woods – there are some many great places to explore and some of them are the top commuter towns near London !

If you picture the English countryside , you probably think of rolling green hills, dotted with country estates and small villages. What you are probably picturing is the Chilterns . It is an area of outstanding natural beauty. And, in the true British style, you can be safe in the knowledge that as you explore, you are never going to be far from a classic British pub or restaurant.

The Chilterns is a mecca for walkers. There are so many beautiful routes to explore. No matter your walking experience or fitness level, you will find a walk to suit you here. It is such a great place for walking near London that there is a walking festival held here every year.

34. St Michael’s Mount

Best places to visit South Coast England? It takes around 45 minutes to cross the causeway that would take you across the castle route and into the heart of St Michael’s. It’s a wonderful place that doesn’t take up much time for a visit and is definitely worth the trip.

It is, however, usually closed during the winter. So, be sure to check that they’re open before you decide to travel towards St Michael’s. Though, even if the Mount is closed, it’s still wonderfully picturesque!

35. Stonehenge

Top things to do in the south? When creating the list of top places to visit in the south of England, we couldn’t forget about Stonehenge . Could we?! 🙂

Getting to Stonehenge is easy from most major cities in the South of England. This popular destination is accessible by train, bus, car, bike and foot.

While the stone circle is probably one of the most iconic sites in England, it is not all that the site has to offer. After you have marvelled at the feat of engineering that allowed this monument to be created and to survive all this time, you can then marvel at the neolithic houses. These recreations have been built using techniques and materials that would have been used by the people who lived here over 4,500 years ago. 

As well as the stones there is a great visitor centre and museum, a lovely cafe. Oh, and of course the area is just beautiful. Make time in your trip to wander in the countryside. There are several walks that allow you to get a feel for the ancient landscape and natural beauty of the area.

So, is Stonehenge on your list of top places to visit in the south of England?

What attracts visitors to South England?

There are many reasons why visitors are attracted to southern England. Here are some of the top attractions and experiences:

• Historic landmarks: Southern England is home to many iconic landmarks, such as Stonehenge , Windsor Castle , the Tower of London, and the Roman Baths. These sites offer visitors the chance to explore thousands of years of history and culture.
• Picturesque towns and villages: Southern England is known for its charming towns and villages, such as Bath, Oxford, Brighton, and the Cotswolds . These places are characterized by their historic architecture, quaint streets, and picturesque countryside.
• Cultural events: Southern England hosts many cultural events throughout the year, such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the Hay Festival of Literature, the Glastonbury Festival, and the Notting Hill Carnival. These events offer visitors the chance to experience music, theater, literature, and art in unique and vibrant settings.
• Natural beauty: Southern England is home to many areas of outstanding natural beauty, such as the Jurassic Coast and the South Downs National Park. These places offer visitors the chance to explore rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and tranquil lakes and rivers.
• Food and drink: Southern England is known for its traditional cuisine, such as fish and chips, cream teas, and afternoon tea. The region also has a thriving food and drink scene, with many Michelin-starred restaurants, gastropubs, and craft breweries.
• Outdoor activities: Southern England offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, water sports, and golf. Visitors can also explore the region’s many gardens, parks, and nature reserves.

South England FAQ

Kent, Surrey, Sussex, Devon, Cornwall are the most famous areas in southern England.

Most people would say that the south of England is posh but this is mainly due to higher prices and expensive houses.

South of England really has to be visited! Go to Seven Sisters, Cheddar Gorge or New Forest for a great day out!

Holidays in south England really can be amazing. Visit Cornwall, Devon or the Isle of Wight for a great British holiday!

If you liked our article, then please check out the below posts too:

• Chiltern Hills England
• Midsomer Murders pub locations
• Tourist attraction in Oxfordshire
• Things to do in the Cotswolds this weekend
• Places to go in Buckinghamshire
• Most beautiful village in England
• What to do in Hertfordshire?
• Nice country pubs near me

3 days South England itinerary

Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary for exploring the southern part of England:

• Start your day in Brighton, a lively seaside town famous for its pebble beach and colorful beach huts. Take a stroll along the pier, explore the quirky shops in the Lanes, and visit the Royal Pavilion.
• In the afternoon, head to the Seven Sisters Cliffs, a stunning stretch of coastline just east of Brighton. Take a walk along the cliff tops for panoramic views of the English Channel.
• Drive to the historic city of Winchester, located in the picturesque county of Hampshire. Visit the magnificent Winchester Cathedral, explore the city’s medieval streets, and learn about King Arthur at the Great Hall.
• In the afternoon, head to the New Forest National Park , where you can see free-roaming ponies and deer, and enjoy a walk or bike ride in the beautiful woodland.
• Start the day in the charming city of Bath, famous for its Georgian architecture and Roman Baths. Visit the Roman Baths Museum, take a walking tour of the city, and enjoy the views from the Royal Crescent.
• In the afternoon, drive to the nearby village of Lacock, a picturesque village that has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.
• Finally, visit Stonehenge , one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments, and marvel at the giant standing stones that have stood on this site for over 4,000 years.

Of course, this is just one possible itinerary, and there are many other wonderful places to explore in southern England, depending on your interests and preferences.

7 day South England itinerary

Here’s a suggested 7-day itinerary for exploring the southern part of England:

• Start your trip in London and spend the day exploring some of the city’s top attractions, such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, or the British Museum.
• Take a day trip to the university town of Oxford, known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history. Visit the famous Oxford colleges, the Bodleian Library, and the Ashmolean Museum.
• Drive to the picturesque town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, the Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and other important landmarks related to the famous playwright.
• Spend the day exploring the beautiful Cotswolds region , known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and quaint tea rooms. Visit some of the picturesque towns and villages, such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, or Broadway.
• Head to the historic city of Bath, famous for its Georgian architecture, Roman Baths, and beautiful gardens. Take a walking tour of the city, visit the Royal Crescent, and relax in the Thermae Bath Spa.
• Drive to the stunning Jurassic Coast , a World Heritage Site that stretches along the coast of Dorset and East Devon. Visit places like Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, and Chesil Beach, and go for a walk along the South West Coast Path.
• Spend the day in the charming seaside town of Brighton, known for its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful pebble beach, and iconic pier. Take a walk along the seafront, explore the quirky shops in the Lanes, and visit the Royal Pavilion.

South England tourist information

Southern England is a popular destination for tourists, offering a wide variety of attractions and experiences. Here’s some general tourist information to help you plan your trip:

• Climate: Southern England has a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers. The weather can be changeable, so it’s a good idea to bring layers and a waterproof jacket.
• Transportation: Southern England has a good transportation network, with train and bus services connecting many of the region’s towns and cities. You can also rent a car to explore the area at your own pace.
• Accommodation: Southern England has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels and B&Bs to luxury hotels and holiday cottages. Popular areas to stay include London, Bath, Brighton, and the Cotswolds .
• Attractions: Southern England has many attractions to suit different interests and preferences, including historic landmarks, museums, galleries, gardens, beaches, and outdoor activities. Popular attractions include Stonehenge , the Roman Baths, the Tower of London, Windsor Castle , the Jurassic Coast , and the Eden Project.
• Food and drink: Southern England is known for its traditional cuisine, including fish and chips, afternoon tea, and cream teas. The region also has a thriving food and drink scene, with many Michelin-starred restaurants, gastropubs, and craft breweries.
• Events and festivals: Southern England hosts many events and festivals throughout the year, including the Chelsea Flower Show, the Henley Royal Regatta, the Glastonbury Festival, and the Notting Hill Carnival.

South England history

Southern England has a rich and diverse history, dating back to prehistoric times. Here are some of the key historical periods and events that have shaped the region:

• Prehistory: Southern England is home to many important prehistoric sites, including Stonehenge and Avebury, which were constructed around 5000 years ago.
• Roman period: The Romans occupied southern England from AD 43 to AD 410, leaving behind many important landmarks and buildings, such as the Roman Baths in Bath and the amphitheater in Winchester.
• Anglo-Saxon period: In the 5th and 6th centuries, southern England was inhabited by various Germanic tribes, including the Saxons, Jutes, and Angles. This period saw the emergence of important kingdoms such as Wessex and Kent.
• Norman Conquest: In 1066, William the Conqueror invaded England from Normandy, France, and defeated the Anglo-Saxon king Harold Godwinson. This led to the Norman Conquest of England and the construction of many important landmarks, such as the Tower of London and Windsor Castle .
• Tudor period: In the 16th century, southern England was the center of the Tudor dynasty, which included monarchs such as Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and Mary I. This period saw the construction of many important buildings, such as Hampton Court Palace and the Mary Rose.
• Industrial Revolution: In the 18th and 19th centuries, southern England played a key role in the Industrial Revolution, with cities such as Bristol, Birmingham, and Manchester becoming centers of manufacturing and trade.

Today, visitors to southern England can explore many landmarks and attractions related to these historical periods, including castles, museums, and ancient ruins, as well as cities and towns with rich architectural and cultural heritage.

South England cities

Some major cities in the south of England include:

• London, the capital city of England and the United Kingdom
• Bristol, a city in the South West known for its maritime history and cultural scene
• Southampton, a port city in Hampshire and home of the Titanic
• Portsmouth, a coastal city in Hampshire known for its naval history and the HMS Victory
• Bournemouth, a coastal town in Dorset known for its beaches and Victorian architecture
• Brighton, a seaside town in East Sussex known for its vibrant arts and culture scene
• Oxford, a university city in Oxfordshire known for its historic and architectural heritage
• Reading, a town in Berkshire known for its links to the technology and business sectors
• Canterbury, a historic city in Kent and home of the Archbishop of Canterbury

These are just a few examples, there are many more cities, towns, and villages in the south of England that are worth visiting.

Family attractions South England

There are many family-friendly attractions in the south of England, here are a few examples:

• Legoland Windsor: A theme park in Windsor, Berkshire, featuring rides, attractions and Lego models.
• Harry Potter Studio Tour: A tour in Leavesden, Hertfordshire, where visitors can see authentic sets, costumes, and props from the Harry Potter films.
• Science Museum: A museum in London, featuring interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for children of all ages.
• Chessington World of Adventures: A theme park and zoo in Chessington, Surrey, featuring rides, animal encounters, and live shows.
• Stonehenge : A prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, that offers a glimpse into the history and mystery of ancient Britain.
• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard: A naval history museum in Portsmouth, Hampshire, featuring the HMS Victory and other historic ships.
• The Eden Project: A botanical garden in Cornwall , featuring indoor rainforests and outdoor gardens, with educational activities for children.
• Longleat: A safari park and stately home in Wiltshire, featuring animal encounters, adventure playgrounds and a maze.
• The Royal Windsor Castle : A royal residence in Windsor, Berkshire, featuring state apartments, exhibitions and guided tours.

Unusual places to visit in South East England

The south of England is home to many unique and interesting places to visit, here are a few examples of unusual places to visit in the South East of England:

• The Secret Nuclear Bunker, Kelvedon Hatch: An underground bunker built during the Cold War that has been converted into a museum.
• The Salisbury Museum, Salisbury: A museum that is home to the world’s oldest human DNA, the oldest human skeleton in Britain and the largest collection of Stonehenge artifacts.
• The Needles, Isle of Wight: A row of three distinctive stacks of chalk that rise out of the sea off the western extremity of the Isle of Wight.
• The Undercliff, Isle of Wight: A unique coastal landscape, formed by landslides, which has created a series of small beaches, coves and cliffs.
• The Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent: A historic spa town that features elegant Georgian architecture, scenic parks and gardens, and several interesting museums.
• The Kent and East Sussex Railway, Kent: A heritage railway that runs through the picturesque countryside of Kent and East Sussex, offering steam train rides and special events.
• The Chatham Historic Dockyard, Kent: A naval history museum that features historic ships, exhibitions, and interactive activities.
• The Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth: A 170-meter-tall tower that offers panoramic views of Portsmouth and the surrounding area.
• The Winchester Cathedral, Winchester: A beautiful cathedral that is one of the largest in Europe and features an impressive medieval architectural design, a beautiful garden and an underground crypt.

Places to visit on the South Coast

The south coast of England is home to many popular tourist destinations, here are a few examples of places to visit:

• The Jurassic Coast : A World Heritage Site that stretches from East Devon to Dorset and features a diverse range of geological formations, including cliffs, bays, and beaches.
• The Isle of Wight: An island located off the south coast of England, known for its picturesque beaches, historic sites, and outdoor activities.
• Brighton: A vibrant seaside town that is known for its lively arts and culture scene, historic pier, and charming architecture.
• Portsmouth: A coastal city that is known for its naval history and attractions such as the Historic Dockyard, home to the HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum.
• The New Forest : A picturesque national park that is known for its unspoiled wilderness, wildlife, and quaint villages.
• Bournemouth: A seaside resort town that is known for its long stretches of golden sand, Victorian architecture and a lively nightlife.
• The White Cliffs of Dover: A iconic natural landmark that offers spectacular views of the English Channel and the coast of France.
• Southampton: A major port city that is known for its maritime history and attractions such as the SeaCity Museum and the Mayflower Memorial.
• The South Downs: A beautiful and varied landscape of rolling hills, ancient woodland and picturesque villages.

Most beautiful places in South East England

The south east of England is home to many beautiful places, here are a few examples of some of the most beautiful places in the region:

• Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex: A beautiful stretch of coast that features seven white chalk cliffs and a wide range of wildlife.
• The Cotswolds , Gloucestershire: An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and charming stone cottages.
• The White Cliffs of Dover, Kent: A iconic natural landmark that offers spectacular views of the English Channel and the coast of France.
• The New Forest, Hampshire : A picturesque national park that is known for its unspoiled wilderness, wildlife, and quaint villages.
• The South Downs, Sussex: A beautiful and varied landscape of rolling hills, ancient woodland and picturesque villages.
• The Thames Path, London: A 184-mile-long footpath that follows the River Thames through some of the most beautiful and historic parts of the south east, including Oxford and Windsor .
• The Kent Downs, Kent: An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that features rolling hills, woodlands and ancient landscapes.
• The Chiltern Hills, Oxfordshire: An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is known for its gently rolling hills, beech woods, and picturesque villages.

What famous film was filmed in South England?

Southern England has been the setting for many famous films over the years. Here are a few examples:

• Harry Potter: Several of the Harry Potter films were filmed in Southern England, including Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry (which was filmed at Oxford University), and various other locations such as the Hogwarts Express, Godric’s Hollow and the Ministry of Magic (which were filmed at different locations in London).
• Bridget Jones’s Diary: The iconic British romantic comedy was primarily set in London but also features scenes filmed in the Cotswolds and Berkshire.
• The King’s Speech: This award-winning historical drama was filmed in various locations throughout Southern England, including Ely Cathedral, Greenwich, and Lancaster House in London.
• The Crown: This popular Netflix series, which chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, was filmed in numerous locations across Southern England, including Winchester Cathedral, Ely Cathedral, and various other locations in London.
• James Bond: Many James Bond films have been set and filmed in Southern England, including iconic locations such as the MI6 building, Buckingham Palace, and Stowe School.

These are just a few examples of the many films that have been set and filmed in Southern England. The region’s historic landmarks, picturesque towns and villages, and stunning natural beauty make it a popular choice for filmmakers.

Things to do in south west England

The south west of England is a popular tourist destination, here are a few examples of things to do in the region:

• Visit the historic city of Bath: Known for its Roman baths, Georgian architecture, and the Royal Crescent.
• Take a hike or bike ride on the South West Coast Path: This 630-mile trail offers some of the most spectacular coastal views in the country.
• Explore the Isles of Scilly: A group of beautiful islands located off the coast of Cornwall , known for its clear waters, white sandy beaches, and unique wildlife.
• Visit the Eden Project: A botanical garden in Cornwall, featuring indoor rainforests and outdoor gardens, with educational activities for children.
• Take a day trip to the historic town of Bristol: Known for its maritime history, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and the SS Great Britain.
• Explore the Dartmoor National Park: A beautiful and rugged landscape of moors, tors, and ancient settlements in Devon
• Visit the ancient stone circles at Stonehenge : A prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, that offers a glimpse into the history and mystery of ancient Britain.
• Go surfing at Newquay: a seaside town in Cornwall , known for its beautiful beaches and surf spots.
• Take a boat trip to see the seals at the Farne Islands: a group of islands located off the coast of Devon , known for its seal colonies and bird-watching opportunities.

Things to do with kids in south east England

The south east of England is home to many family-friendly activities and attractions, here are a few examples of things to do with kids in the region:

• Visit the Science Museum in London: A museum that features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for children of all ages.
• Take a trip to Legoland Windsor: A theme park in Windsor, Berkshire, that features rides, attractions, and Lego models.
• Explore the Natural History Museum in London: A museum that features a wide range of exhibits on natural history, including dinosaurs and fossils.
• Visit the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Leavesden, Hertfordshire: A tour where visitors can see authentic sets, costumes, and props from the Harry Potter films.
• Have a day out at Chessington World of Adventures: A theme park and zoo in Chessington, Surrey, that features rides, animal encounters, and live shows.
• Take a trip to the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard: A naval history museum in Portsmouth, Hampshire, that features the HMS Victory and other historic ships.
• Visit the Royal Windsor Castle : A royal residence in Windsor, Berkshire, that features state apartments, exhibitions and guided tours.
• Take a trip to the Sea Life Centre in Brighton: An aquarium that features a wide range of sea creatures, including sharks, rays and turtles.
• Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, London: A botanic garden that features a wide range of plants and gardens, including the famous Palm House and the Princess of Wales Conservatory.
• Visit the Beale Park, Reading: A wildlife park and garden that has a wide range of animals and a playground area for kids.

Is it worth visiting Southern England?

The South of England has a lot to offer. It is home to some of the prettiest villages in England . You can easily come to the south of the country and spend your whole visit in London. You would have a wonderful time, but you’d be missing out on all the rest that the area has to offer.

Whatever it is that you are looking for in a getaway from vibrant cities to relaxing nature, you can find something wonderful in the South of England.

Love England and the rest of the UK?

Read our other articles related to this stunning country:

Day trips from London

Weekend trips UK

Best Cotswold villages

Bourton on the Water Model Village

Things to do in St. Albans

Places to visit in the Cotswolds

So, there you have it! A taste of what the South of England has to offer, from the exciting buzz of its cities to the serene beauty of its countryside and coastlines. A place where adventure and relaxation meet, offering something for everyone.

Whether you’re planning a day out in the South East, seeking the thrill of the many things to do in South England, or just eager to discover the best places to visit in South England, this region is sure to captivate you.

Explore the charm of the South Coast UK as you hop from one picturesque seaside town to another, and indulge in the plethora of attractions that make this part of the country one of the places to visit in the UK. As you traverse the magnificent South Coast of England, you’ll stumble upon countless South England highlights and, if you’re adventurous enough, uncover some of the most unusual and captivating places.

Embrace the opportunity to encounter the region’s rich history, enjoy its diverse culture, and be mesmerised by some of the most beautiful places in South East England. And remember, there’s always something new and exciting to do, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, making southern England a destination that keeps on giving.

So pack your bags, set your GPS, and get ready to discover all the places to visit in the south of England that make this region so uniquely captivating and enjoyable. Happy exploring!

Articles you may like:

• How to visit Bourton on the Water Model Village in Cotswolds?
• Original things to do in Copenhagen Denmark: 7 Must-see places in CPH!
• 3 days Ring of Kerry itinerary – Is driving tour worth it?
• Eibsee Lake in Bavaria, Germany – the #1 lake in Bayern!

Further reading

27 Cotswolds Places So Ugly, Even the Birds Refuse to Sing

Dive into Darek and Gosia’s wickedly humorous guide to the Cotswolds’ most ‘ghastly’ places. Discover why the unbearable beauty of these top locations might just be too much for any sensible traveller to handle. Welcome to...

Looking for Magic? 30 Most Magical Places to Visit in the UK!

Discover the UK’s most “magical” destinations like you’ve never seen them before. We guide you through stunning places with a unique twist of British humour. Expect the unexpected! Welcome to the magical world of the UK...

The 10 Best Places to Visit In Southern England

Are you venturing to Southern England? Beyond London, there are many great things to see and do in the South of England. Here is our guide to help you plan your stay and make the most of your adventure!

The Best of Southern England: London

No visit to England would be complete without first starting your journey in the capital city. London consistently ranks as one of the most visited cities in the world. This is largely due to a worldwide obsession with English royalty and royal culture, an endless list of attractions to visit and endless entertainment. For your first visit to London be sure not to miss out on a chance to see world-class theatre on West End, as well as these top London attractions listed below.

Buckingham Palace

As the formal residence of the monarch, Buckingham Palace is a must visit for any first time visitor to London. Royal fans will be delighted to learn that you can book a tour and visit some of the state rooms during the summer months. Be sure to take a walk along the mall to see the palace from afar and then continue your journey toward the river thames.

Tower Bridge

The tower bridge is an icon of London and located next to the tower of London. Because the bridge is a little out of the way from other attractions in Mayfair and Westminster, a great way to visit is by joining a hop-on-hop-off tour.

One of the more modern additions to the city skyline, the London Eye is still one of the most popular ways to see the city from above. This is easily one of the most popular attractions in London. While it will offer you great views over the city, it is also one of the great London bucket list items. Be sure not to miss it!

With the unrivalled best view over the city, The Shard is your perfect opportunity to see the city from above. Visit at sunrise or sunset to see a soft glow rise above the skyline.

Big Ben & Houses of Parliament

As one of the most iconic symbols of London, Big Ben rising above the Houses of Parliament is a great photo opportunity at sunset. In fact, there is much to see here in Westminster. Start with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Be sure to also drop by Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate famously married. Nearby you will also find Downing Street and not too far away, Buckingham Palace.

The Best of Southern England: Bath

Reached in just 90-minutes by train from London, Bath has long been of historical culture importance to the British people. So much so that in 1987 Bath was dubbed a World Heritage site and to this day feels as if you are stepping back in time. Bath was founded by the Romans as a thermal health spa and to this day you can still visit the site. It was in the 18th century under George III that Bath developed into the elegant town it is today with neoclassical Palladian that made Bath one of the most desirable cities to live. Don’t miss these attractions:

The Roman baths

Once the site of public bathing, the Roman baths are still a highly visited attraction to this day. Although you cannot swim in the Roman baths nowadays, there are many public bathhouses nearby.

Undergoing many restorations over the years, Bath Abbey is one of the most beautifully upheld churches in all of England.

Pulteney Bridge

Crossing the River Avon is the extremely photogenic Pulteney Bridge which was completed by 1774 in Palladian style.

The Best of Southern England: Oxford

If you’re a history buff or perhaps a fan of the popular Harry Potter series then a visit to Oxford should certainly be on your itinerary. The university was established in the 12th century and is home to a number of beautiful colleges, many of which are open to the public.

Radcliffe Camera

Perhaps the most photogenic landmark in the city of Oxford, the Radcliffe Camera was designed by James Gibbs in neo-classical style and built in the mid 18th century.

Bodleian Library

As one of the oldest libraries in all of Europe, the Bodleian Library is one of the most fascinating buildings in Oxford. There are more than 12 million times in the book making this the second largest library in Britain after the British Library.

Oxford University Museum of Natural History

The Oxford Natural History Museum is full of fascinating objects and a great choice if you are travelling with kids or looking for something a little more engaging to pass the afternoon. The building itself is quite a the attraction in itself, displaying Gothic Revival architecture at its finest.

Brighton’s Palace Pier has become one of the most iconic photographs of England. Although the country is not known for its beaches, this unique pebble beach has really built a name for itself. The carnival rides and games at the end of the pier are a lovely way to spend a late afternoon but beware of the strong winds! As far as the best of southern England goes, you don’t get much better than Brighton and you certainly don’t go any further South!

Quintessentially British, the Cotswolds are the perfect summer escape from London. Although you can visit the Cotswolds in a short day trip from London the best way to see this area is by staying a few days. There are a handful of beautiful holiday homes in the Cotswolds to make for the perfect romantic getaway.

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is a popular day trip for travellers with a long layover at Heathrow Airport. The castle is a royal residence to this day and occupied by the British royal family. Originally the castle was built in the 11th century after the Norman invasion. It has since undergone a lot of work to maintain its distinct architecture, which attracts visitors from all over the world.

Another university town not to be missed is Cambridge, a short fifty-minute train journey from London. Because there are fewer hotels and tours on offer in Cambridge it is easy to visit in a day. The train journey is under an hour, making this a quick escape.

Isle of Wight

Located off the South coast of England is the glorious Isle of Wight. Known for its beaches and seafront promenades, the vintage looking beach huts that line the way have become iconic for the Isle of Wight.

Jurassic Coast

Perhaps the most underrated geographical area of England is the Jurassic Coast in the south of the country on the English Channel. In 2001 the 96-mile stretch of coast was given World Heritage status by UNESCO. The epic scenery and ruggedness of the coastline makes this one of the most unmissable locations in England.

If big cities interest you there is plenty to see and do in Bristol. This is a city in the southwest that has a strong maritime history. With approximately half a million people living in Bristol, it is a vibrant and charismatic city. Many of those are university students, making this a youthful stopover city with a lot of charm.

Getting there & Planning your Stay

Visiting the South of England is easy for travellers visiting from abroad. London will be your first port of call. From there, London serves as an international hub with connections to everywhere in the world.

The best way to explore the South of England is by renting a car. This gives you the freedom to see the countryside at leisure without restricting yourself to trains and buses. Although the public transport system is great if you would prefer not to drive!

Holiday homes are a great way to experience the English countryside in an authentic way and feel like a local. The Big Domain has a great selection of homes throughout the United Kingdom. Some of our favourite cottages can be found in the Cotswolds (seriously post-card worthy!)

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Amazing blogs, it is very interesting, it is also engaging, I love to read amazing blogs like this.

Los Angeles

Plan a trip

First trip solo

Packing guide

20 Best Places for Solo Female Travel

Travel after a break up

20 Places in your 20’s

WAYS TO TRAVEL

Solo travel

Adventure travel

Luxury travel

Learn a language

Become a blogger

• About Emily
• About This Blog
• Personal Posts
• My Travel Stories
• Central America
• North America
• South America
• Tours and Activities
• Transport and Travel
• Packing Tips
• Travel Gear
• Travel Fashion and Beauty
• Work with me

25 of the Best Places to Visit on the South Coast of England

• Last Updated 19 October 2023

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Take a look at my privacy policy for more information.

This post showcases some of the very best places to visit on the south coast of England – from Cornwall to Kent, and everywhere in between. 

Stretching some 300 miles, the south coast of England is officially the sunniest part of the UK. This means it’s the ideal place for a summer holiday!

Lined with dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches and hidden coves, and plenty of picture-perfect seaside towns… there’s a lot to discover!

I grew up in Weymouth , a seaside town on Dorset’s stunning Jurassic Coast, and have since lived in multiple spots around the south of England. So I’ve spent most of my life exploring the English coast!

In this post, I’ve rounded up a few of my favourite discoveries, including seaside towns and stunning stretches of coastline. I also asked a bunch of awesome local bloggers to share their own top recommendations from along the south coast of England. Enjoy…

Best Places to Visit on South Coast of England: Map

Find places to stay on the south coast of england.

Best Places to Visit on the South West Coast of England

Places in cornwall, 1. scilly isles.

One of my favourite discoveries on the south coast of England has to be the Scilly Isles. This is a small cluster of islands just off the coast of Cornwall, in the far southwest of the country.

Think empty beaches where long grasses wave from the tufts of white sand dunes and rugged cliffs topped with colourful wildflowers. The rocky coves are home to an abundance of sea life, including seals!

I spent a week exploring the islands of Tresco, Bryher, and St Martins and was absolutely spellbound. The islands can only be reached by ferry or in a tiny plane from Newquay airport.

There’s no way to take a vehicle with you, and cars are few and far between, so pollution is incredibly low. Which means the wildlife of these quiet little islands is stunning! 

READ MORE: 33 of the Best Places to Visit in the South of England

2. Minnack Theatre

Recommended by: Kat, Wandering Bird

If you’re looking for somewhere unique to visit by the coast, you need to add the Minack Theatre to your Cornwall itinerary. This incredible place is unlike anywhere else we’ve ever been: an open-air theatre carved into the cliff. 

Created on private land by a wealthy family, this theatre regularly puts on shows and plays, which are incredible to watch against the backdrop of the Cornish cliffs.  When shows aren’t scheduled, you can walk around the theatre and seating, have a picnic, take advantage of the cafe and enjoy the views. 

Word of warning – there is parking next to the theatre but it’s not large. Get there early unless you want a long walk up a very steep hill!

RECOMMENDED TOUR: Devon and Cornwall 5 Day Small Group Tour

Recommended by: Sylvie, Travels with Eden

St Ives is the jewel in the crown of Cornwall and one of the best places to visit on the whole south coast of England. The coastal town is a popular holiday destination famous for its beautiful beaches, awe-inspiring landscapes, delicious food and booming art scene. Make sure you try the local delicacies.

A day at the beach is a must-do. I recommend Porthminster Beach. With calm seas, white sand and a backdrop of palm trees, what more can you want?

If you’re feeling adventurous, Porthminster beach is the gateway to the South West Coast path , so you can walk to the neighbouring town of Carbis Bay for another beach day. 

READ MORE: See my guide to what to do in St Ives to get planning! You should also check out my post about nearby St Agnes to see more of the north Cornish coast.

4. Lizard Peninsula

Recommended by: Annabel, Smudged Postcard

The Lizard Peninsula is a peaceful area of dramatic coastline and pretty fishing villages in the southwest of Cornwall. Highlights include Lizard Point, the most southerly part of England where visitors can enjoy Cornish cream teas whilst admiring the rocky coastline.

Popular Kynance Cove, a beautiful beach of sand, rocks and caves, is located on the western side of the Lizard.

The Lizard is bordered in the north by the Helford River, a perfect spot for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. There are some excellent pubs in this part of Cornwall including the waterfront Shipwright’s Arms.

The Lizard is also perfect for hiking with the South West Coastal path running along its ever-changing coastline.

5. Charlestown

Recommended by: Heather, Conversant Traveller

For a dose of pirates, seafood and some of the clearest ocean in the UK, head to the 18th-century port village of Charlestown and see a different side of Cornwall .

Tucked away on the south coast just a mile from St Austell, this charming spot was once a thriving harbour for importing coal and exporting china clay.

Today it retains much of its Georgian character and is the perfect destination for filming locations – you may recognise it from Poldark and Hornblower!

Keep an eye out for the small fleet of square-rigger ships and don’t miss the Shipwreck, Rescue and Heritage Centre. There are also several exceptional restaurants serving some of the freshest seafood in the country.

Recommended by: Nicola, Global Mouse Travels

Fowey is the perfect seaside stop off and one of our favourite places in Cornwall. There’s something almost film-set-like about it, with fisherman’s cottages lining the narrow streets down to the harbour. At the quayside, where lobster posts jostle for position, it looks timeless.

There are plenty of places to pick up Cornish classics like fish and chips, pasties and fudge, but just taking a wander and breathing in that delicious salty sea air is invigorating. We have had so many trips to beautiful Cornwall , it is our happy place and Fowey typifies this picturesque part of the country.

7. Polperro

Recommended by: Sabrina, Moon & Honey Travel  

Polperro is an idyllic fishing village located along the South Cornwall Coast in England. Brimming with charming cottages and the most picture-perfect harbour in Cornwall, Polperro is a destination for romantics and history buffs. You can learn about the village’s smuggling history in the Polperro Smugglers Museum. After, you can follow the South West Coast Trail east in the direction of Looe or west in the direction of Polruan.

While Polperro can be visited in a day, I recommend spending at least one night here. Unless your accommodation offers on-site parking (rare), you’ll have to park in the large Polperro Car Park, located just off A387, and walk into the village. Read this Cornwall Road Trip Itinerary for trip planning help.

PLACES IN DEVON

Recommended by: Chris and Heather, A Brit & A Southerner 

If you are looking for one of the best days out in Devon , head over to the area recognized as the “English Riviera” by visiting the beautiful coastal town of Torquay. Renowned as one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations, Torquay offers a plethora of attractions, local restaurants and much more for all the family to enjoy.   Spend an afternoon walking along the seafront, before heading to the heartbeat of Torquay at the Harbour and Marina. Here, you will find a myriad of restaurants and cafes serving the fresh catch of the day.

With plenty of shops to satisfy those looking for a little retail therapy, Torquay is the perfect family holiday destination given its proximity to a variety of other local seaside towns such as Brixham, Paignton, Babbacombe and others.

Torquay is also famous as the birthplace of Agatha Christie – one of the world’s best-loved crime fiction writers! Take a guided tour like this one to discover the many locations that are featured in her novels and learn more about her life.

Recommended by: Claire, Go South West

Just half an hour away from the city of Exeter, Exmouth is a quaint seaside town, sitting at the meeting point of the River Ex’s estuary and the beginning of the Jurassic Coast, which stretches down into Dorset. From Exmouth, it is possible to hike along this coast, taking in some spectacular clifftop views on the way to neighbouring town Budleigh Salterton. 

There are also nearby moors and quaint surrounding countryside. Visit villages near Exmouth such as the medieval dwelling of East Budleigh with many historic thatched-roof buildings, and Otterton, a small village of 700 people which focuses around a mill. However, Exmouth is also perfect for a beach-focused holiday, with amusements, a sandy beach, and plenty of accommodation facilities!

10. Burgh Island

Recommended by: Fiona at London-Unattached 

Bigbury on Sea in Devon is a lovely, traditional seaside town with a fabulous child-friendly sandy beach. Walk across the sand or get the curious sea tractor to Burgh Island. The island is cut off at high tide and guests rely on the tractor. Burgh Island Hotel was the height of fashion in the 1930s and 40s, with many famous guests including Noel Coward, Agatha Christie and even Winston Churchill.

Whether or not you are staying at the hotel, is it worth a visit. Walk around the island or swim in the stunning mermaid pool – filled with seawater and surrounded by craggy rocks. It’s a great place to windsurf, kitesurf or to kayak around the island too.

READ MORE: Best Places to Visit in South Devon

PLACES IN DORSET

11. lyme regis.

Lyme Regis is easily one of the best places to visit on the south coast of England. It’s also one of the most popular. This colourful seaside town lies perched on the Dorset coast between golden cliffs famed for their abundance of prehistoric fossils! 

Although it’s always been a popular holiday spot, Lyme has had a resurgence in recent years. Especially as more and more trendy boutique hotels and hot new restaurants open their doors. Among them is the HIX Oyster & Fish House, run by celebrity chef Mark Hix.  

12. Durdle Door and the Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast is a 96-mile stretch of dramatic coastline running from East Devon and along almost all of the Dorset coast. It was the first-ever ‘natural’ World Heritage Site, because of its huge geological importance.

Rich in prehistoric fossils, with rugged cliffs and coastal structures shaped by millennia of sea movement, the coastline is said to offer an almost continuous “walk through time” spanning 185 million years of the Earth’s history! 

RECOMMENDED TOUR: Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door Bus Tour (from £35pp)

One of the star attractions on the section of the south coast of England is Durdle Door. A rocky limestone archway over the sea, the “door” juts out into the English Channel between two stunning bays. It’s an absolute must-visit in Dorset, and one of the most photographed sights in the area.

13. Sandbanks Beach

Sandbanks is one of the best beaches in Dorset , if not along the whole of the south coast of England! Running along a small peninsula between Poole and Bournemouth , Sandbanks is also home to the most expensive seaside properties in the world! On the other side of the peninsula lies Poole Harbour, the largest natural harbour in the world. Here you’ll find over a dozen yacht clubs and marinas, as well as some amazing seafood restaurants such as Rick Stein’s. 

The beach itself is incredible and has been awarded a Blue Flag 32 years in a row! With calm, safe waters and clean golden sands, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular beaches in the area. It can get busy on sunny days, but the beach is huge so there’s always plenty of room!

14. Isle of Purbeck

Although not quite an island, the Isle of Purbeck is a peninsula in Dorset bordered by water on three sides. It’s also one of the prettiest places in the whole county! 

This stunning peninsula is covered with wildflower-filled chalk grasslands, dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and charming villages. The southernmost tip ends in a series of white chalk stacks known as Old Harry Rocks, another must-see along the south coast of England.

Don’t miss a trip to the seaside village of Swanage, or the stunning hilltop ruin of Corfe Castle. You can even take a ride on a beautiful vintage steamtrain between the two!

RECOMMENDED TOUR: Isle of Purbeck Full Day Tour (from £60pp)

Best Places to Visit on the South East Coast of England

Places in hampshire, 15. lymington.

Recommended by: Eniko, Travel Hacker Girl

Lymington is a pretty coastal town on the Solent. Sailing is very popular in the area, so there are many beautiful marinas in the town. Some of them also offer kayak rentals. Children love The Lymington Sea Water Swimming Baths in the town. The inflatable playground provides hours of entertainment for the whole family.

An easy walk from the town centre is the Lymington Nature Reserve. The old salt flats with tidal pools are a great environment for many birds. It is a real paradise for bird watchers. Lymington can be easily reached by train from London. The nearby New Forest , it is a popular place to go cycling, horse riding or hiking near London .

16. Isle of Wight

Recommended by: Darek, Darek and Gosia

Great Britain is full of stunning places and one of them is the  Isle of Wight . Located just a stone’s throw away from the southern coast, it is a perfect place to spend a weekend break with your family or friends.

There are a few ferry crossings offering access to the island, with Lymington to Yarmouth being the quickest. It only takes around 40 minutes to get there for passengers travelling in a car.

With amazing beaches, stunning landscapes like the Needles, and unique places like the Garlic Farm , the Isle of Wight has to be top of any list of the best places to visit on the south coast of England! You can take a guided day trip from London – or head there for a minibreak.

PLACES IN SUSSEX

17. thorney island.

Recommended by: Vicky, Day Out in England

Thorney Island is a small island off the south coast, in Chichester. It’s totally underrated but makes for a lovely 9-mile walk around the coast. Walkers might be put off by the barbed wire gates to enter – Thorney Island is MOD property – but once you’re through, you’ll love the easy walk. 

The path round is pretty straightforward, but the centre of the island is out of bounds so you can’t cut across. There are no facilities on the island for public use, which makes it all the more peaceful but you’ll have to take what you think you’ll need with you. 

The high point is the beautiful white sand beach, about three-quarters of the way around. Enjoy!

18. Brighton and Hove

Recommended by: Skye, Skye Travels

My favourite cities in England are Brighton and Hove. I love running along the beach, although the shore is covered in small pebbles instead of sand (except at low tide).

Brighton has two great shopping areas – The Lanes and North Laine. The former is the fancy shop district with high-end restaurants, jewellery shops and unique boutiques, the latter is a bohemian collection of hip cafes, independent shops and vintage stores.

Visiting the Royal Pavilion Museum is also a must, both inside and out. Finally, make sure to visit the pier, once the largest in the world, complete with arcades and carnival rides at the end. Short on time? Check out this guided day trip to Brighton and the Seven Sisters from London (from £89pp).

19. Eastbourne

Recommended by: Shobha, Just Go Places

Eastbourne is a charming Victorian seaside town which is the gateway to the South Downs National Park. This national park is the youngest of the UK national parks and covers three counties in the south of England. The South Downs National Park extends from Eastbourne to Winchester.

One of the most beautiful parts of the South Downs National Park is the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs . Thanks to erosion, the Seven Sisters are now technically 8 cliffs with one having been split in two. They are called the Seven Sisters because seafarers on the English Channel returning home to England thought the cliffs resembled nuns when the white of the cliffs contrasted with the dark green landscape. 

20. Rye and Camber Sands

Recommended by: Ann, The Road Is Life 

The  charming little town of Rye  near the coast of East Sussex is known for its beautiful medieval buildings. It’s easily one of the highlights of the historic region known as 1066 Country .

The cobbled streets of Rye are full of history and character, especially the famous Mermaid Street which is home to one of England’s oldest pubs. A trip to Rye simply isn’t complete without stopping at the iconic Mermaid Inn! 

A 10-minute drive from Rye will take you to a lovely golden beach that stretches out for 3 miles along the southern coast of England. Camber Sands is a popular spot for kite surfing, picnics and scenic coastal strolls. It’s also said to be one of England’s most beautiful beaches. Combining a visit to Rye and Camber Sands makes an excellent day trip from London. 

GLAMPING NEARBY: Check out my review of Swallowtail Hill glamping for the most gorgeous place to stay near Rye.

PLACES IN KENT

21. folkestone.

Recommended by: Caitlin, The Vegan Word

Folkestone may be best known as the Eurotunnel’s location, but there’s plenty to explore! If you enjoy nature walks, East Cliff and Warren Country Park has beautiful views of the white cliffs and the English Channel. You’ll find an easy (though steep!) access point from Sunny Sands beach.

Folkestone is also home to a sandy beach (Sunny Sands) located conveniently close to the town centre and the harbour. Speaking of the harbour, I had one of my favourite meals of the year at Dr. Legume’s , which is located in a former shipping container in the Harbour Arms. Their plant-based meals are innovative (and delicious!), as is what’s been done here to transform disused railroad tracks into a restaurant area.

22. White Cliffs of Dover

Recommended by: Nicole from Nicole LaBarge Travel Blog

The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic landmark in the south of England. You can walk along the sixteen-mile trail which runs eight miles either side of Dover and take in the stunning views and wildlife along the way.

You can also visit two historical places along the walk. The first is the Fan Bay Deep Shelter which is a tunnel system that was commissioned by Winston Churchill in 1940 and used during World War 2. The second is South Foreland Lighthouse which is a Victorian Lighthouse.

You can take in the chalky white cliffs along the coastline. This trail has been named one of Britain’s Best Coastal Walks and you will find some of the best beaches in Kent here. If you’re short on time you can take this guided day trip to Dover and Canterbury from London (from £79pp).

23. Kingsgate Bay

Recommended by: Hannah, Hannah’s Happy Adventures

Kingsgate Bay is a perfect hidden beach in Kent. Due to its location, the bay remains empty on a summer’s day and is a great place for some relaxation. Head down with a picnic and swimming gear for a day chilling in the sun.

On one side of the bay, you’ll see Kingsgate Bay Sea Arch, offering a superb photo opportunity. On the other side, you’ll see an old manor house, now used for functions and weddings. If you tire of Kingsgate Bay, at low tide, you can walk around to the bays on either side – Botany Bay and Joss Bay. However, they tend to be significantly busier. Kingsgate Bay is best visited by car and parking is available.

24. Margate

Recommended by: Angela, Where Angie Wanders

Margate on the South Coast has always been the epitome of an iconic English seaside town and its once-abandoned theme park, aptly known as Dreamland , has now been given a retro theme makeover with rides, shows, and even a roller rink.

Of course, it’s Margate’s sandy beach that pulls in the crowds. But head into town and discover the eclectic vintage shops, tea rooms and antique stores – a nod to a generation that is looking for something other than fish and chips.

A day in Margate is like a throwback to childhood when a trip to the beach was a grand occasion . The difference now is that you can finish your day at one of the chill-out bars that line the promenade and enjoy a cocktail or two!

RELATED POST: Things to do in Ramsgate (just up the road from Margate)

25. Whitstable

Recommended by: Laura of What’s Hot?  

Whitstable is a beautiful seaside town that’s less than an hour away from London by train. With rows of quaint shops leading all the way down to the beach, it’s hard to believe that this town is so close to busy London.

With a choice of excellent fish and chip shops, ice cream shops and more, a day trip to Whitstable is the perfect option on a sunny day. What’s more, t he beach is lined with colourful beach huts making it look like something straight off a postcard. Make sure to try some fresh oysters straight from Whitstable Bay too! 

Where would you add to this list of the best places to visit on the South Coast of England? Scroll down to leave a comment and share your favourite spots!

Pin this for later:

Related Posts

6 of the Best Beaches in Salcombe Devon

• Last Updated 21 March 2024

Golden sand, rolling hills, and a tranquil estuary… these are the best beaches in Salcombe, Devon for the perfect seaside holiday!

15 of the Best Things to Do in Salcombe Devon

• Last Updated 20 March 2024

An insider’s guide to the best things to see and do in Salcombe: seaside holiday heaven on the south coast of Devon, England.

How to Plan the Perfect City Break in Liverpool

• Last Updated 29 March 2024

An in-depth guide to help you plan a city break in Liverpool, England – and cram it with as much music, art, and culture as possible!

6 thoughts on “25 of the Best Places to Visit on the South Coast of England”

You’re so lucky to have grown up in Weymouth. I love visiting there! I grew up inland but moved to the seaside a few months ago and it makes me so happy. I live on the Somerset coast – not included in your article but equally beautiful in it’s own way!

It was a really special place to grow up – I took it for granted at the time but having the beach right there was amazing! We used to go down to the beach after school any time it was sunny, which is a pretty nice way to grow up :) I know I missed out Somerset – only because I was trying to stick to places that were actually on that bottom section of coastline, facing the Channel. We went to Butlins Minehead every year when we were kids so I know all about how nice that bit of coast is :D

I am planning a trip to England and Scotland for a month starting in mid-June and your information has been so helpful in my planning of the south coast and Cornwall. I made all kinds of notes on my map with your highlights. Thank you so much – I am very much looking forward to checking out your suggestions!

Oh that’s amazing news, glad to hear it helped!! Good luck with the planning, I hope you have an amazing time in the UK. Especially in south England – I’m biased but I really think this part is the best!!

Thank you so much for the whole write up. It’s very informative. I’ll like to be in Brighton &Hove, hope to get a reasonably priced accommodation there. Thanks again.

Thanks for commenting Vincent :) I hope you have a great trip!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Must-see attractions in Southeast England

Canterbury Cathedral

A rich repository of more than 1400 years of Christian history, Canterbury Cathedral is the Church of England’s mother ship, and a truly extraordinary…

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle, an immense moated pile just east of Maidstone,  is often considered the world’s most romantic castle. It's certainly one of the most visited…

The Chartwell Estate was home of Sir Winston Churchill from 1924 until his death in 1965. It offers a breathtakingly intimate insight into the life of…

Turner Contemporary

Turner Contemporary is a blockbuster art gallery, bolted together on the site of the seafront guesthouse where master painter JMW Turner used to stay…

Down House, on the edge of the quaint Kent village of Downe, was Charles Darwin's home from 1842 until his death in 1882. It was here that he developed…

Dover Castle

Occupying top spot, literally and figuratively, in Dover’s townscape, this most impressive of castles was built to bolster the country’s weakest point at…

Royal Pavilion

Brighton & Hove

The Royal Pavilion is the city’s must-see attraction. The glittering party pad and palace of Prince George, later Prince Regent and then King George IV,…

Banksy Brexit Mural - removed

Despite voting leave, the poor port town of Dover is possibly the Southeast community set to suffer most post-Brexit. It was perhaps for that reason that…

Beachy Head

East Sussex

The famous cliffs of Beachy Head are the highest point of the chalky rock faces that slice across the rugged coastline at the southern end of the South…

Brighton’s newest attraction opened in 2016, at the point the now defunct West Pier used to make landfall. The world’s most slender tower is a brutal,…

Secret Wartime Tunnels

The biggest draw at Dover Castle is the secret wartime tunnels. The claustrophobic chalk-hewn passageways were excavated during the Napoleonic Wars and…

Arundel Castle

Southeast England

Arundel Castle was first built in the 11th century but all that's left of the early structure are the modest remains of the keep. It was ransacked during…

Shell Grotto

Margate’s unique attraction is a mysterious subterranean grotto, discovered in 1835. It’s a claustrophobic collection of rooms and passageways embedded…

Battle Abbey

On this spot raged the pivotal battle in the last successful invasion of England in 1066: an event that had an unparalleled impact on the country’s…

Beaney House of Art & Knowledge

This mock-Tudor edifice is the grandest on the main shopping thoroughfare, if not the most authentic. Formerly called the Royal Museum & Art Gallery, it…

Brighton Pier

This grand old Edwardian pier is the place to experience Brighton’s tackier side. There are plenty of stomach-churning fairground rides and noisy…

SEA LIFE Brighton

Not just for children, this aquarium is an underground exhibition of nature's fascinating water creatures. Walking around the church-like interior,…

Lewes Castle & Barbican House Museum

Now little more than a set of ruins, this castle was built shortly after the 1066 Norman invasion. It never saw warfare, but there were riotous…

Arundel Cathedral

Arundel’s ostentatious 19th-century Catholic cathedral is one of the dominating features on the town’s impressive skyline. Commissioned by the 15th Duke…

Chichester Cathedral

This understated cathedral was begun in 1075 and largely rebuilt in the 13th century. The free-standing church tower went up in the 15th century; the…

Spitfire Memorial Museum

Around 4 miles northwest of Ramsgate’s town centre at Manston Airport, this purpose-built museum stores two WWII planes: one a Spitfire, the other a…

Museum of Farnham

This engaging little museum is located in the splendid Willmer House, a Georgian mansion built in 1718 for the wealthy hop merchant and maltster John…

Fishbourne Roman Palace

Fishbourne Palace is the largest-known Roman residence in Britain. The palace lies 1.5 miles west of Chichester, just off the A259 (take bus 700 from…

Given the kiss of life using lottery and council funds, Margate’s famous amusement park has come back to life after many years of lying derelict and stop…

Pevensey Castle

The ruins of William the Conqueror’s first stronghold sit 5 miles east of Eastbourne, just off the A259. Regular train services between London Victoria…

Roman Museum

This fascinating subterranean archaeological site gives an insight into Canterbury’s everyday life almost two millennia ago. Visitors can stroll a…

Hove Museum & Art Gallery

Hove can justifiably claim to be the birthplace of British cinema, with the first short film shot here in 1898. You can see it alongside other fascinating…

Chichester City Walls

Chichester’s almost complete ring of Roman defensive walls are around 1.5 miles in length, and provide a pleasant escape from the retail bustle they now…

Pallant House Gallery

A Queen Anne mansion built by a local wine merchant, handsome Pallant House and a 21st-century wing host this superb gallery. The focus is on mostly…

Novium Museum

Chichester’s purpose-built museum provides a home for the eclectic collections of the erstwhile District Museum, as well as some artefacts from Fishbourne…

Guildhall Museum

Sandwich’s small but thorough museum is a good place to start exploring the town. The exhibition space was fully renovated in 2017 to house a copy of the…

Salutation Gardens

Just along from Fishergate, this set of exquisite gardens was laid out behind a 1912 mansion by leading early 20th-century garden designers Gertrude…

The seafront area known as the Stade (below East Hill) is home to distinctive black clapboard structures known as Net Shops. These were built to store…

This Georgian town house is a favourite stomping ground for local apparitions, but its most famous resident was American writer Henry James, who lived…

Eastbourne Pier

Mercifully saved by some clever firefighting when a huge blaze broke out in the amusement arcade on 30 July 2014, it took just over a year for this…

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Set in the Royal Pavilion’s renovated stable block, this museum and art gallery has a glittering collection of 20th-century art and design, including a…

Ypres Tower

Just off Church Sq stands the sandcastle-esque Ypres Tower (pronounced ‘wipers’). You can scramble through the 13th-century building to learn about its…

Chatham Historic Dockyard

On the riverfront in Chatham, this historic dockyard, a candidate for Unesco heritage status, occupies a third of what was once the Royal Navy’s main dock…

Towner Art Gallery

One of the southeast’s most exciting exhibition spaces, this purpose-built structure has temporary shows of contemporary work on the ground and 2nd floors…

St Martin’s Church

This stumpy little building just off the road from Canterbury to Sandwich is thought to be England’s oldest parish church in continuous use. It’s also…

More destinations you need to see

• Visit 100 Countries
• Visit 500 UNESCO Sites
• Landmarks of the World

Welcome to the enchanting world of Southern England, where a tapestry of delights awaits to captivate all tastes. From vibrant centers of innovation to a world-famous university town, this region boasts unspoiled villages, rolling hills, and a rich tapestry of history that will leave you spellbound.

As you head to the south coast, immerse yourself in its long-standing maritime traditions, from the bustling ports that sent ships around the world to its storied history of defending the realm and dispatching forces in major conflicts.

Venturing inland, you’ll discover magnificent cathedral cities, vast rolling plains, and ancient monuments, including the iconic Stonehenge, standing as a testament to the passage of time. The charm of Southern England has inspired great authors and visionary engineers whose innovations have left a lasting impact on this captivating landscape.

Whether you’re drawn to picturesque villages, fascinated by history’s intriguing tales, or seeking solace in the embrace of rolling scenery, Southern England is sure to fulfill your desires.

So, whether you plan a weekend break , a week-long exploration, or an extended adventure, we’ve curated a list of eight exceptional places to visit in Southern England. Included are two of our all-time favorites, the iconic cities of Oxford and Bath . These recommendations stem from our own experiences and insights shared by fellow travel bloggers. Embrace the very best the region has to offer as we guide you through these unforgettable destinations and prepare to be enchanted by Southern England’s warmth, history, and natural splendor.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our   full disclosure policy here .

TABLE OF CONTENTS

8 great places to visit in southern england, isle of portland, southampton.

Bristol sits on the River Avon in the southwest of England. The location, just   two hours from London , and the easy-going vibe make it a perfect city break for both Brits and tourists alike.

Although, nowhere near as bustling and cosmopolitan as England’s capital it is far from sleepy. The popular university and the local’s love of music and the arts contribute to the colourful and lively atmosphere. While the rich maritime history, the pretty architecture and the scenic Avon   make Bristol a destination   with plenty of sights and activities to please everyone.

MUST DO IN BRISTOL:

• SS Great Britain : This historic ship was the masterpiece of famed Bristol native engineer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel. It is housed in the Dockland Museum and is open to the public to explore both above and below deck as well as below the ship itself. The setup is quite impressive as the hull sits in a dry dock but a layer of glass holds back the water above. There is also a fabulous exhibit showcasing the works of Brunel.
• Clifton Suspension Bridge : Another masterpiece of Brunel, this iconic bridge spans the River Avon connecting Bristol with North Somerset. Hike up the hill above for stunning views of the bridge and then cross the bridge itself for views of the river and city.
• Take a tour of Bristol’s streets in search of wall art by the famous street artist, Banksy : Bristol is Banksy’s home city and is where he began his work anonymously. Today you can pick up a map and do a self-guided tour or join an organized tour and see famous pieces like The Girl With the Pierced Eardrum , a parody of Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring .

Contribution from Sarah of Live Dream Discover

READ MORE: Complete Guide to Visiting Brunel’s SS Great Britain in Bristol

Oxford, also called the “city of dreaming spires”, is home to the world-famous University of Oxford which is the oldest university in the UK. Moreover, it’s a paradise for Harry Potter fans, since several colleges have been used as filming locations for the Harry Potter movies.

When you’re spending   one day in Oxford, visiting several colleges of the university is a must. I recommend visiting Christ Church College and Merton College, Magdalen College, or Balliol College. Make sure to visit the Bridge of Sighs as well, and see for yourself if it really looks like its namesake in Venice.

However, Oxford is more than just its university. It has a medieval castle of almost 1000 years old and the Covered Market, a historic market that first opened in the 18th-century, is worth a visit as well.

MUST DO IN OXFORD:

• Radcliffe Camera : One of the most iconic buildings in Oxford is the Radcliffe Camera. It was built between 1737 and 1749 and is the oldest round library of the UK. It is part of the Bodleian Library.
• Bodleian Library Tour : Visiting the Bodleian Library is a highlight of a visit to Oxford. The tour includes the Divinity School, which you might recognize as the Infirmary of Hogwarts, and the stunning Duke Humfrey’s library.
• Christ Church College : This is one of the largest colleges in Oxford and includes famous alumni such as Lewis Carroll, the author of   Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland . The Great Hall of Christ Church College is stunning and it formed the inspiration for the Great Hall of Hogwarts. The staircase leading up to the Great Hall has also figured in the Harry Potter movies.

Contribution from Sanne of Veni Vidi

Bath  is one of the most interesting cities in the UK. The whole city centre is one of  England’s UNESCO World Heritage sites  due to its beautiful Georgian architecture. Bath has been inhabited since Roman times but it was at its most important in the 19th century when London’s elite would head to Bath for several months at a time.

Bath is relatively compact which means that   its attractions   are easily reached on foot. The city has some fabulous parks and gardens, including botanical gardens and parks with canals running through them in the city centre. You should also go up to the Prior Park Gardens and the Bath Skyline for views over the city.

Bath is one of the better shopping destinations in the southwest. It has plenty of the usual chains but also has lots of independent shops and cafes tucked down little alleyways which are fun to explore.

You can use Bath as a base to see more of the surrounding countryside too. You’re right on the border of the Cotswolds and you can easily get to more of the south’s attractions including Stonehenge.

MUST DO IN BATH:

• The Roman Baths : The Roman Baths are the biggest tourist attraction in Bath. They’re brilliantly preserved and the main pool still works, supplied by one of England’s few thermal springs. Don’t forget to try the water – it’s a taste you won’t forget! To bathe in the springs you’ll have to head to the nearby Thermae Bath Spa.
• Georgian Architecture :  Take a walking tour   to see the best of Bath’s Georgian architecture. Free tours depart from outside Bath Cathedral with unmissable sights such as the Circus and the Royal Crescent, but you should also check out the   Assembly Rooms   where the 19th-century elite danced their nights away.
• Museums : Bath has some fantastic museums in addition to the one at the Roman Baths. Take a look at Jane Austen’s life in more detail at the Jane Austen Centre,   learn more about Regency life   at   No 1. Royal Crescent , or walk through one of Bath’s art galleries.

Contribution from Emily of Kids and Compass

READ MORE: Weekend Guide to Bath: 48-Hour Itinerary

The   story of Salisbury   starts with a Roman settlement, just outside the current city built on the top of a hill. Sarum flourished and by the Norman period, it was large enough to warrant the construction of one of   England’s castles   and a cathedral.

Just five days after the original cathedral was built, it was struck by lightning and suffered extensive damage. Rebuilt and extended, work even started on a Royal Palace during the 1130s. The site wasn’t popular though. Local people complained about the wind and cold which, together with the need to bring water, food, and building materials up the hill, was enough to persuade the powers that be to grant permission for the cathedral to be relocated to a nearby plain in 1218. The foundation of the new cathedral was begun on April 28th, 1220, and completed just 38 years later, in Gothic style.

Salisbury grew quickly to accommodate not just the clergy but wool merchants and traders who made it their home. It’s the oldest ‘New Town’ in England – most of the city is medieval, but instead of the rambling network of streets often associated with that period, Salisbury is a consciously planned city, with the central parts based on a grid pattern known locally as Chequers.

MUST DO IN SALISBURY:

• Salisbury Cathedral :   The Cathedral Tower Tour allows you to walk up the 332 steps inside the spire of the Cathedral to a viewing platform almost at the very top. The tour provides a fascinating insight into medieval construction techniques – and of course, the 360-degree views are amazing. The Cathedral is also home to the best-preserved Magna Carta and to the world’s oldest working modern clock in the world dating back to around 1386.
• The Medieval Town : Explore the Medieval town on foot – Look out for Poultry Cross the only remaining market cross in Salisbury built in 1307 then enjoy a beer in the oldest hostelry in Salisbury, the Haunch of Venison, which dates back to 1320 and was built to accommodate the Cathedral builders.
• Visit Arundells : Sir Edward Heath was not only the Prime Minister of the UK but an avid musician and competitive sailor. He bequeathed his former home to a trust set up to enable the public to share some of its treasures. You’ll find a collection of art, fine china, and sailing trophies all displayed just as they would have been during his life. Even the dinner table is set for   company!

Contribution from Fiona of London-Unattached

READ MORE: Looking for more great places to visit in England? Check them out here!

Winchester  is a small city located in Hampshire about 70 miles  southwest of London . The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times when, in 871, Alfred the Great established Winchester as the capital of  England . Winchester continued to be an important city throughout the early Middle Ages, but during the 12th and 13th centuries power gradually shifted to the new capital in London. During the English Civil War, the city changed hands several times and Oliver Cromwell’s forces destroyed Winchester Castle.

As you walk through picturesque Winchester today, there are still reminders of the ancient capital including ruins from castles and the magnificent cathedral. You can’t miss the huge statue of Alfred the Great in the city centre. Winchester is also known for its connection to Jane Austen because it is here where she died and is buried.

MUST DO IN WINCHESTER:

• Winchester Cathedral : Go inside this beautiful cathedral to see Jane Austen’s grave and the Winchester Bible, the largest 12th-century English bible. In the crypt, you will find an interesting modern sculpture from Antony Gormley.
• Great Hall : The Great Hall is the only building remaining of Winchester Castle. You can see the famous Round Table, gates commemorating the marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and a statue of Queen Victoria.
• Winchester College and Winchester College Treasury : Take a guided tour of what is believed to be the oldest continuously running school in England. Inside the college, visit the College Treasury, an art and archaeology museum inside recently converted Medieval stables.

Contribution from Anisa of 2 Traveling Texans

The Isle of Portland, a treasure trove of history and natural wonders, proudly showcases the renowned Portland Stone, adorning iconic monuments like London’s Cenotaph and Buckingham Palace, and gracing the UN Headquarters in New York. Its vast man-made harbor played pivotal roles in World Wars, the lead-up to D-Day, and hosted sailing events during the London 2012 Olympics.

Located at the heart of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for fossil discoveries, the island is intricately connected to the mainland by the mesmerizing Chesil Beach – a unique barrier beach surrounded by water on both sides. Prepare to be enchanted by the rich heritage and geological marvels of this captivating destination.

MUST DO IN ISLE OF PORTLAND:

• Portland Bill Lighthous e : Climb the famous Portland Bill Lighthouse for fantastic views across the Isle of Portland and along the Jurassic Coast. Built in 1906 to guide vessels along the English Channel, the lighthouse stands 41m tall and its beam can be seen for 25 nautical miles.  Automated in 1996, the former lighthouse keepers’ home is now a museum with exhibits about lighthouses and their keepers and Trinity House, the organization that operates lighthouses in the UK.
• Portland Museum : Located in one of the cottages that Thomas Hardy had the heroine in his novel “ The Well-Beloved ” live in, the Portland Museum showcases the story of the island’s history with the sea, from Viking times through to the sailing events at the London Olympics of 2012. The museum also has an extensive fossil collection taken from along the Jurassic Coast and tells the story of the world-famous Portland Stone that is quarried here.
• Castleton D-Day Centre : Recreating the Isle of Portland’s wartime dockyards that were used by the 5th US Corp and the US 1st infantry to embark on D-Day as they started the liberation of the continent from the Nazi’s. The museum encourages visitors to interact with the exhibits and you can even dress up in period costumes.

Southampton, the largest city on England’s south coast, boasts a captivating maritime heritage. It was the poignant starting point of the ill-fated Titanic’s maiden voyage and a cherished home to the luxurious QE2 for many years. Even today, the city maintains its strong ties to the sea, serving as the UK’s largest cruise port , bidding farewell to millions of cruise passengers annually.

Yet, Southampton’s history is not confined to the sea alone; the skies play a significant role too. Once hosting the world’s largest flying boat operation, the city witnessed the first flight of the iconic Spitfire from World War II. Additionally, Southampton played a crucial role in the embarkation of troops bound for Normandy on D-Day and beyond. This city’s story is woven with tales of both maritime and aerial prowess, creating a fascinating tapestry of history and innovation.

MUST DO IN SOUTHAMPTON:

• Check out the Centuries-Old Houses:   Two houses in the centre of Southampton are over a millennia-old between them. The   Tudor House & Garden   documents 800 years of history and is Southampton’s most important historic building. The   Medieval Merchant’s House   just a short distance away has been restored to its mid-14th-century splendour and shows how a merchant may have lived in the bustling port.
• Visit the Transport Museums : If transport is your thing, then Southampton’s association with the sea is showcased at   SeaCity   Museum . For enthusiasts of the air, the   Solent Sky Museum   traces the importance of aviation in Southampton, which is the birthplace of one of the most famous planes of all time, the Spitfire. And for those who like automobiles, just south of the city is the   National Motor Museum   which has over 280 vehicles on display. Exhibits include Formula 1 cars,  land speed record holders, and important cars from the history of motoring.
• Take a Walk : Whether it’s walking the   city walls , which are some of the best-preserved in the UK, to learn about the city’s history, or following the   Titanic Trail   which takes you to some of the places associated with the ill-fated ocean liner – there really is plenty of interest to see walking around Southampton.

READ MORE: Cruising from Southampton? Check out our  guide to the port of Southampton that includes information about parking, hotels, and other attractions to visit before or after your cruise.

Portsmouth, a naval stronghold for centuries, remains a proud home to approximately two-thirds of the Royal Navy’s surface fleet. Boasting the world’s oldest dry-dock, its strategic significance in defending England made it one of the most heavily fortified cities on the planet. The port played a vital role in historic events like the D-Day landings and the Falkland Islands’ liberation from the Argentine invasion in 1982.

This vibrant city holds historical significance beyond its naval prowess. It proudly claims Charles Dickens, the renowned author, and Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the visionary engineer, as its native sons. Brunel’s impressive constructions continue to operate across various parts of England, leaving a lasting impact. Additionally, Portsmouth witnessed the world’s first mass-production line, introduced by Marc Isambard Brunel, Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s father. This city’s heritage is an illustrious tapestry woven with maritime might and groundbreaking innovations.

MUST DO IN PORTSMOUTH:

• Historic Dockyard : Explore famous ships from the Royal Navy’s illustrious history such as the HMS Victory (possibly the Royal Navy’s most famous warship due to its role in the Battle of Trafalgar), the HMS Warrior, Britain’s first iron-hulled, armoured battleship and what’s left of Henry VIII’s flagship, the Mary Rose, are also now preserved here after being raised from the seabed.
• Charles Dickens Museum : The birthplace of the famous author was right here in Portsmouth, and you can visit his birthplace. The modest house has been restored to period splendour and has several Dicken’s artefacts, including, rather morbidly, the couch on which he died!
• Spinnaker Tower : Enjoy the view from 100m above Portsmouth as you stand on the glass floor if you dare! Or head up to the third level viewing platform where you are open to the elements, before enjoying afternoon tea on the second level, 105m above the ground. For the extra-daring, you can even abseil down the side of the tower.

As our journey through Southern England draws to a close, we hope you’ve been swept away by the region’s enchanting diversity and timeless charm. From vibrant centers of innovation to the tranquil beauty of unspoiled villages, and the grandeur of historic cities like Oxford and Bath – two of our very favourite cities in England that we could return to again and again.

We encourage you to explore this area’s rich history, from ancient monuments like Stonehenge to the legacies of inspiring authors and visionary engineers and then take in the beauty of the rolling hills, majestic cathedrals, and picturesque villages. We guarantee your travels will be filled with unforgettable experiences in this region of England!

Looking for more information to plan your visit to England? You may find these articles helpful.

• 8 Great Places to Visit in Central England
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites in England
• 101 Free Things to See and Do in London
• 25 Weekend Breaks in England

Map of Places to Visit in Southern England

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO ENGLAND

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

• For more great weekend ideas around England and the rest of Britain, check out one of my favourites –   52 Great British Weekends: A Seasonal Guide to Britain’s Best Breaks
• For weekend ideas in London –   The Weekend Starts Here: Fifty-Two Weekends of Things to See and Do   – will give you lots of ideas!
• For all things England, you can’t go wrong with Rick Steves! Check out his   England travel guide , full episodes of his   TV show , or download his app for excellent   audio tours .

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

RELATED POSTS

Guide to visiting bath’s roman baths, day trips from london, a historical walking tour of bath, england, things to do in bath, england, guide to visiting the london transport museum.

• Work with me
• Acolades + Awards
• Published Work
• Bucket List
• Privacy Policy
• Destinations List
• AUSTRALASIA
• WILD SWIMMING
• OUTDOOR ADVENTURE GIRLS
• Write for Me

12 Places to Visit in South England

You may have read some of my other posts recently ‘ 24 Places to visit in the UK ‘ but I’ve been doing even more staycation research and decided to pull together another blog post focused around the best places to visit in South England, as well as another on the best places to visit in North England too. 

One of my favourite things to do is to go for a staycation, as there are so many beautiful places to visit in the UK and I am always adding new destinations to my bucket list.

From charming cottages to lake-side cabins, and from exciting city breaks to hiking in the mountains, there’s an abundance of places to visit in Southern England. A week in Britain offers travellers some of the best scenery, from the far-flung reaches of Scotland to the coast of England and the cliffs of Wales. But this blog post on the best places to visit in South England focuses solely on the southern part of the country. 

The south of the UK is home to ancient towns, historic cities, beautiful beaches and stunning woodlands, and whether you are exploring London, Bournemouth , Bristol, Cornwall or The Cotswolds , there is something for everyone. There are so many things to do in south England…

To help you plan your UK adventure, I have pulled together this list of the best places to visit in South England.

In hope that this post inspires some of you to travel closer to home over the coming months, instead of flying elsewhere. Keep reading for the best places to visit on south coast of England.

Here are the places you MUST add to your trip around in South England..

Of course, you can’t visit the UK, without heading to England’s capital city London. Top of my list of places to visit in South England is London, one of the most prestigious cities in the world and it certainly has a lot to offer tourists, but what about those of us who live close by, and want to explore without the crowds and chaos? The best time of year to visit London is anytime!

I grew up about an hour outside of London, so it’s been a city which I would easily access and I would regularly come into the city for work, socialising or relaxation. But last year I got to the point where it got boring, so I started exploring lesser-known destination in London, including Hackney, St Katharine’s & Wapping, Hoxton, Shoreditch and Soho. This blog post of the places to visit in south England will help you plan your trip. 

Check out my blog post to spending a fun-filled 2 days in London .

Bournemouth

One of my favourite things to do as a kid was to go on a Bournemouth holiday. And now we’ve got our own family, I wanted to take her to see what all the fuss was about.

Bournemouth is located on Britain’s South Coast and offers visitors long sandy beaches, adorable beach huts, the Pier, art exhibitions, dramatic seascapes, tropical gardens, nightlife and traditional fish & chips. It’s easily one of the best places to visit in south England.

It’s the perfect place for a weekend break away with your partner, family or girlfriends. Whether you visit in the summer season or the Christmas period, things to do in south England, especially in Bournemouth which has so much to do, all year round.

With staycations becoming more popular in recent years and a stay on the coast, one of the UK’s favourite types of holidays, Bournemouth is setting the standard for that great British weekend away.

Check out my blog post on spending a weekend in Bournemouth .

Are you looking for a weekend staycation in the UK? Use this Cornwall itinerary! And make a weekend break in Cornwall top of your list. There are so many places to visit in Cornwall, so this guide will help you decide where to go in Cornwall, where to stay in Cornwall, where to eat in Cornwall and much more. Use this guide as a Cornwall itinerary for your weekend in Cornwall. 

Another one of the best places to visit in south England is Cornwall is the ultimate UK summer staycation with its mild climate, breathtaking scenery and long stretches of sandy beaches. Located on the southwestern tip of the United Kingdom, it offers tourists moorlands, beaches, cliff faces, great cuisine and much more.

The county of Cornwall culminates at the promontory Land’s End, with views out to the Atlantic Ocean. The south coast is often dubbed the Cornish Riviera, due to it’s temperate weather, longer summers and picturesque harbour villages. 

Check out my blog post on spending five days in Cornwall .

The Cotswolds

When looking for south-west England destinations, you’ve got to stop at the beautifully rural Cotswolds, with rolling hills, stone villages, winter walks and a beer by the roaring fire in a local pub, but with easy accessibility from London.

It is also becoming a foodie capital of the country with amazing pubs, restaurants and cafes popping up all over the region. Whether you fancy a good walk, pub lunch, or a pamper at a spa, there is no better place than The Cotswolds. It’s top of my list of things to do in south England.

The Cotswolds straddles five counties, and although the vast proportion of it is within Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire, it even goes as far north as south Warwickshire and touches the edges of Worcestershire and Wiltshire too. 

I have visited The Cotswolds so many times over the years and I always fall further in love with this beautiful region in the UK. Whether you fancy a good walk, pub lunch, or a pamper at a spa, there is no better place than The Cotswolds.

Check out my guide to spending the weekend in The Cotswolds .

Bristol 

Some towns in Britain have always been seen as a hipster or ‘up and coming’ in recent years, but Bristol really is a cool city, with a very interesting and exciting future ahead of it. 

Bristol is a city straddling the River Avon in the southwest of England with a prosperous maritime history. Its former city-centre port is now a cultural hub, the Harbourside, where the M Shed museum explores local social and industrial heritage. The harbour’s 19th-century warehouses now contain restaurants, shops and cultural institutions such as the contemporary art gallery The Arnolfini.

There is so much to see including, Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton Suspension Bridge, Brunel’s SS Great Britain, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Floating Harbour, Cabot Tower and Bristol Cathedral. Add Bristol to your list of the best places to visit in south England.

Another south-west England destination, is Oxford, a city of many attractions, and it’s near impossible to see all of this wonderful city in 48 hours, however, I am going to give it a go within this guide.

During the time I spent in Oxford, I did a walking tour of Oxford’s most famous tourist spots including the Thames, we visited the oldest pub in Oxford, Turf Tavern, we dined at The Handle Bar and explored The Covered Market.

I’ve actually only been to Oxford a handful of times before, despite it only being 45 minutes away from Milton Keynes, and my last trip to Oxford really reminded me why I need to spend more time here.

There is so much to do and see here, making it one of the best places to visit in south England – from the university to the river, and from all the amazing top-notch restaurants to the blinding nightlife. Another one of the best places to visit on South coast of England.

Check out my guide to 48 Hours in Oxford .

Photo by Laurentiu Robu from Pexels

Only a short train ride away from London, another amazing place to visit in south England, is Cambridge seems to be the city that has it all. The shops, the cafes, the architecture, the history, the museums and the river.

Cambridge is a city on the River Cam in eastern England, home to the prestigious University of Cambridge, dating to 1209. University colleges include King’s, famed for its choir and towering Gothic chapel, as well as Trinity, founded by Henry VIII, and St John’s, with its 16th-century Great Gate.

University museums have exhibits on archaeology and anthropology, polar exploration, the history of science and zoology.

There are lots of exciting things to do in Cambridge, UK, but what are the top 7 fun things to do in Cambridge? Read my blog post for the best places to visit on South coast of England.

Check out my guide to spending a weekend in Cambridge .

Last year I took a trip to Bath for my birthday and even though it was July it was pretty downcast. 

Did you know that Bath is the only place in the UK where you can bathe in warm, mineral-rich thermal waters, which come directly from the natural hot springs? Because of the cities Roman history, it has become a big tourist spot for millions across the world. The entire city is a World Heritage Site!

Behind the stoned buildings of Georgian Bath is a city that has plenty to see and do; a host of great eateries to visit and a vast array of accommodation to suit all budgets. Check out my favourite five fun things to do in Bath, to make sure that you make the most of your visit to this gem of a city that boasts a history sweeping back to the Roman times.

The springs are situated deep beneath the city and there is archaeological evidence that there were people hanging about the hot springs at least 8,000 years BC! 

Check out my blog post on 12 things to do in Bath .

Photo by Dominika Roseclay from Pexels

Last summer we drove down to Brighton for the weekend, and my we picked a corker of a weekend to visit. The sun was out, it was around 26 degrees and we even managed a quick dip in the sea! We arrived on Saturday, and after checking into our room at Ibis Brighton, we headed on down to the seafront, where we grabbed an ice cream, and a beer on the beach.

We started out to the sea, wondering why we don’t live anywhere near to the sea back at home, in awe of its beauty and calming atmosphere. And if you need ideas of things to do during a trip to Brighton I love this list of quirky things to do in Brighton.

Then we headed on down the beach, taking a stroll down the Brighton Pier. Arabella was in awe of all the slot machines, and we had a go on some of the slots before Theo attempted to win a minion toy on the pickup machines, like in Toy Story.

Brighton Pier is amazing, with lots of do, places to eat and such a wonderful British tradition. There were lots of tourists but you’ve got to expect that in mid-summer on a scorcher of a day. Add this place to your bucket list of places to visit in south England.

Check out my blog post on spending 48 Hours in Brighton .

I headed down to the coast for a weekend by the sea and a well-needed catch-up. For our holidays in Dorset, we stayed just outside the beautiful town of Bridport, in an adorable cottage on a working dairy farm. 

We spent the weekend driving around Dorset, up and down the coastal roads, spending the morning at Durdle Door, the afternoon at Lulworth Cove, and then sunbathing in the sunshine in the morning at Hive Beach Cafe just down the road. 

The cottage was perfect for our adventure in Dorset and provided us with a great base to explore both Dorset and beyond. For our weekend by the sea, we decided to take a relaxed approach to explore, heading out to the eastern tip of the county on Saturday.

And then heading back west, through Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, and then on Sunday we explored the villages around Bridport, before heading on to the west coast, and exploring the towns around Axminster. 

Dorset is a county with a long history and provides visitors with the best of both, the countryside and the ocean. You can venture to inland Dorset, with its hamlets of thatched cottages, wooden-beamed pubs and watermills and then within minutes, you can be looking out to sea, with the pebbled beaches and ice cream huts dotted along the beaches. Have you been to this iconic places to visit in south England?

Check out my blog post guide to a weekend in Dorset .

ISLE OF WIGHT

I visited the Isle of Wight last summer for the first time but within hours I had fallen in love with its relaxed atmosphere, the smell of sea air, and stunning views from every corner of the island.

We stayed at Darwin Escapes’ Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat, which was the perfect base for our long weekend away. Unlike the old-style holiday parks, Darwin Escapes offers 5* luxury cabins with incredible views, and cabins with everything you could need for a weekend retreat.

The cabin we had had two bedrooms, sleeping 4 people, an open plan kitchen lounge area, plus a decking area out the front for dining on those warm summer evenings.

We then spent four days exploring the island, from kayaking at Freshwater Bay with Adventure Activities and dining at The Cow Co, to zip-lining at Tapnell Farm and dressing up at cowboys at Blackgang Chine. We had so much fun over the weekend and I really fell in love with this wonderful little island. A dreamy south-west England destination!

Check out my guide to visiting the Isle of Wight .

Last year I flew to spend a weekend in Jersey! I spent 48 hours exploring this wonderful island, including three days and two nights. Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands, between England and France and even though it is a self-governing dependency, it still sits within the United Kingdom. It may not be on the island of the UK, but it is one of the best places to visit in south England.

The island is a real mix of British and French cultures, with streets signs in French and English, many towns named after French phrases and lots of French-inspired cuisines. The island is known for its beaches, cliffside walking trails and historic castles and there’s just so much to do on this tiny yet wonderful island.

The island is possibly most famous for the Jersey War Tunnels complex, in a former hospital excavated by slave labour, which documents the island’s 5-year German occupation during WWII. So what are you waiting for? There are so many things to do in south England, including in Jersey.

Check out my blog post on things to do in Jersey

OTHER BLOG POSTS

17 Destinations You Won’t Believe are in England

The best beaches in the UK

21 Unique Stays on Airbnb

15 of the Best Hikes in the UK

12 Weekend Breaks for a Staycation in the UK

My Travel Tips and Recommendations

To book flights, I always use flight search engine, Skyscanner, I regularly use the Everywhere tool to find the cheapest places to travel. It’s how I get to travel so much all around the world. I find it the easiest way to compare flight prices across airlines and get the best deals. 

Accommodation

For accommodation, I usually book most of my hotels or hostels through  Booking.com.  I love using this platform as it provides me with some amazing deals for accommodation all around the world. Or if you prefer, I also recommend using Airbnb. If you haven’t signed up with Airbnb already, you can use  this link  to get £25 off your first visit!

Photography and Technology

Here is a list of the technology I always travel with:

• Canon G7X Mark II
• Canon EOS M50 and lens
• GoPro Hero Black 7
• DJI Mavic Pro
• RØDE VideoMic GO On Microphone

Travel Insurance

Picking travel insurance that covers you in all eventualities is an essential part of planning a trip for every single person. If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. You never know what’s around the corner.  World Nomads  is an affordable option that I personally recommend.  BOOK HERE

You can also find me on social media:  Facebook ,  Twitter,   YouTube  and  Instagram .

Sign up to  AirBnB with this link  and receive a £23 off your first booking.

To receive my articles and reviews straight to your inbox  SUBSCRIBE HERE .

Did you know I also vlog my trips? Make sure you subscribe to my YouTube channel so you get alerted when all my travel videos goes live…  CHECK THEM OUT HERE

Thank you for reading and as always happy adventuring! If you have any questions about the destination please leave these in the comments below.

If you’ve enjoyed this post, please  share it for me with all your friends and family!

You Might Also Like

10 of the best pubs in The Cotswolds + map [2023]

10 Best Cities in Scotland (+ Scotland Tourist Attractions)

A Birthday Weekend in Yorkshire at Rudding Park Hotel & Spa

Affiliate links are used in my website. i receive a small commission from products you purchase at no extra cost from you..

15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Southampton, Hampshire

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley visited England in the spring of 2022 and spent eight weeks exploring its towns and cities, including Southampton.

The southern port city of Southampton in Hampshire boasts one of the world's largest natural harbors. Until the 1930s, it was England's busiest port for transatlantic passenger travel, and giant liners like the Queen Mary were built in local shipyards.

Hundreds of thousands of emigrants departed the country on ships sailing from here, including aboard the ill-fated Titanic . It's still a busy port and is a fun place to visit to watch large cruise and cargo ships come and go. The views are especially good from the excellent Hythe Ferry service that runs regularly across the Solent, the 20-mile-wide strait that separates the Isle of Wight from the mainland.

Excellent shopping facilities are located both in and around the city, one of the best being Westquay . The city also hosts many cultural attractions and events, such as the Southampton International Film Festival . Other popular things to do in Southampton include exploring the New Forest and the Isle of Wight .

Nature lovers will also appreciate the city's many green spaces and parks, including the 326-acre Southampton Common . Another area of countryside to visit is nearby Itchen Valley Country Park, a beautiful 440-acre property offering great hiking and biking.

For details of these and other great reasons why this vibrant city is one of the best places to visit in England, read our list of the top attractions and things to do in Southampton, Hampshire.

See also: Where to Stay in Southampton

1. Walk the Medieval City Walls

2. visit the tudor house and garden, 3. the medieval merchant's house, 4. see vintage vehicles at the national motor museum, beaulieu, 5. visit the seacity museum, 6. stroll the titanic trail, 7. board the steamship shieldhall, 8. see the planes at solent sky, 9. explore old town southampton and bargate, 10. enjoy a stroll around ocean village, 11. take in a show at the mayflower theatre, 12. explore the collections at southampton city art gallery, 13. take a hythe ferry, 14. take a walk in southampton's central parks, 15. drive to netley abbey, where to stay in southampton for sightseeing.

The best views of Southampton's 14th-century medieval walls, one of the longest unbroken stretches of medieval walls in Britain after the city of York , are obtained from the Western Esplanade, also the site of Wind Whistle Tower. The only remaining medieval church in Southampton is St. Michael's on Castle Way, built in the 11th century and containing Norman relics and a font made of Tournai marble.

Follow the walls south to Mayflower Park, which lies opposite the Mayflower Memorial to the Pilgrim Fathers, and Wool House, a 14th-century warehouse. Also nearby is the God's House Tower on Winkle Street, a 12th-century hospital dedicated to St. Julian.

A variety of fun guided walking tours of the old walls and medieval vaults are available. Try the easy-to-follow self-guided tour option, with maps available from the Tudor House shop.

The magnificent Tudor house in St. Michael's Square was built in the late 15th century for a wealthy merchant family. Now a museum, it displays exhibits from the Victorian and Edwardian eras, as well as periodic exhibitions encompassing more than 900 years of local history.

Visitors can use free audio guides while enjoying the reconstructed kitchens and numerous artifacts, including Georgian and Victorian jewelry and archaeological finds from the medieval and Tudor periods.

A shop and café are located on the premises, and regular events and learning opportunities are available for visitors to participate in (check the attraction's website for details).

Location: Bugle Street, St. Michael's Square, Southampton, Hampshire

Official site: www.tudorhouseandgarden.com

Another classic old home to visit is the Medieval Merchant's House in French Street, just a short stroll from the city center. Built in 1290, this historic townhouse has been fully restored and is one of the only surviving examples of its kind in England.

Highlights of a visit include seeing collections of period furniture and wall hangings, and unique architectural flourishes that offer a fascinating insight into the living conditions of a wealthy 13th-century family. A picnic area is available for visitor use in the property's attractive garden.

Address: 58 French Street, Southampton, Hampshire

Official site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/medieval-merchants-house

An easy 14-mile journey southwest of Southampton through parts of the New Forest , the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu is one of the world's largest museums dedicated to the automobile. Its many exhibits include the official collection of original James Bond vehicles , as well as other famous movie cars, including the flying Ford Anglia from Harry Potter , as well as some of the homemade cars constructed for the Top Gear TV series.

Also of note is the fantastic Palace House and Gardens . Formerly the 13th-century Great Gatehouse of Beaulieu Abbey, it's a delight to explore for its immaculate spreading lawns and walkways overlooking the Beaulieu River. There's also the opportunity to ride the attraction's monorail and vintage buses.

Address: John Montagu Building, Beaulieu, Brockenhurst, Hampshire

Official site: www.beaulieu.co.uk

The SeaCity Museum tells the story of the people of Southampton and their role in Britain's rich maritime history, including the stories of those who departed from (or arrived in) the port over the centuries.

A must-see here is the Titanic Story . This fascinating exhibit tells of Southampton's connection to the ill-fated vessel, which sailed from the port in 1912. The 1930s Art Deco Civic Centre that houses this fascinating museum is also home to the Southampton City Art Gallery .

Address: Havelock Road, Southampton, Hampshire

Official site: http://seacitymuseum.co.uk/

The Titanic departed Southampton on her doomed maiden voyage to New York, and as a result numerous sites around the city are associated with the vessel.

One of the best ways to learn about the city's connections to the ship is through the informative Titanic Trail. Maps are available from local tourism offices and many popular tourist attractions across the city, or on the SeaCityMuseum website .

Along the way, you'll visit the remarkable Titanic Engineers' Memorial in East Park, a beautiful bronze and granite monument unveiled in front of a crowd of 100,000 Southampton residents in April 1914 (none of the ship's 35 engineers survived). Nearby is the Titanic Musicians' Memorial, dedicated to the ship's musicians.

Another interesting stop along the way is Holyrood Church . Built in 1320, it was destroyed during WW2 but its ruins have been dedicated as a memorial to those who served in Britain's Merchant Navy. It also serves as home to the Titanic Crew Memorial .

Address: 3-5 Bernard St, Southampton, Hampshire

Part of Britain's National Historic Fleet, SS Shieldhall is the largest surviving working steamship of her type in Europe. Built in 1954 as one of the Clyde sludge boats, this impressive vessel has been fully restored and provides a working example of the machinery typical of the great ships that plied the world's oceans between the 1870s and 1960s.

In addition to educational and sightseeing outings, the ship regularly appears in the Southampton Mayflower Maritime Festival held each summer. Highlights of this three-day spectacle include a host of activities, displays, and attractions, including historic vessels, vehicles, and fly-overs by vintage aircraft.

Location: Berth 110, Southampton, Hampshire

Official site: www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk

Solent Sky uses a fantastic collection of models and photographs, as well as numerous magnificent flying machines, to tell the story of Southampton's aviation heritage. The region is famous for its experimental and development work between 1908 and the late 1960s, the most famous being the iconic Spitfire .

Showpieces of the museum are the huge Sandringham flying boat and the Supermarine racing seaplane, the predecessor of the Spitfire that won the Schneider Trophy in the early 1930s.

Address: Albert Road South, Royal Crescent, Southampton, Hampshire

Official site: www.solentskymuseum.org

Just to the south of the city center, Southampton's Old Town has many unique locations associated with famous residents and visitors. These include William the Conqueror, Henry V, William Shakespeare, the Pilgrim Fathers, Isaac Watts, and Jane Austen.

Originally built as the main gateway to the medieval city, 800-year-old Bargate marks the entrance to the Old Town and is used to host temporary art exhibits and events. Numerous plaques have been laid from Bargate down to the waterside to commemorate key events, from the early Roman settlement to the opening of the National Oceanography Centre .

Location: Bargate, Southampton, Hampshire

East of Southampton's old town, Princess Alexandra Dock has been transformed into a modern leisure and shopping center. You'll see plenty of luxury yachts moored in the harbor in front of Canute's Pavilion, with its designer boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and cinemas, including one for arthouse and foreign-language films.

It's a delightful and easy area to explore on foot, regardless of your pace. Other fun things to do in Ocean Village include boat trips, sailing facilities, and enjoying the great views of the cruise ships moored in the Eastern Docks.

Location: Ocean Village, Southampton, Hampshire

Built in 1928, the 2300-seat Mayflower Theatre offers a varied program of professional stage shows and music. In addition to the latest West End theater productions, rock and pop bands, and orchestras, comedians make this a regular stop on their touring schedule.

The theater also offers a number of fun dining experiences, including a high-end afternoon tea and show-time sweet treats (advance booking required). Fun behind-the-scenes tours are also available.

Address: 22-26 Commercial Rd, Southampton, Hampshire

Official site: www.mayflower.org.uk

Housed in the same building as the SeaCity Museum, a visit to Southampton City Art Gallery is one of the top free things to do in Hampshire. Here you'll see an interesting selection of some 3,500 works of art.

Opened in 1939, highlights include old masters and English artists from 1750 to the present, as well as a valuable collection of ceramics. Food and shopping facilities are available on-site and nearby.

Address: Civic Centre, Commercial Rd, Southampton, Hampshire

Official site: www.southamptoncityartgallery.com

Given its importance as one of the world's largest and busiest ports, it should come as little surprise to learn that Southampton also serves as an important ferry hub for local passenger traffic, too. And if there's time in your travel itinerary, a ride aboard a Southampton ferry can be a lot of fun, even if it's a short one.

A fun excursion can be enjoyed aboard the vessels of the Hythe Ferry. Sailing from the Town Quay (parking is free), this 15-minute, passengers-only journey to the town of Hythe offers superb views back over the city, as well as of the many large cruise ships that berth here. In fact, it was from these docks that the RMS Titanic departed on her fateful journey.

Part of the fun is the journey to the ferry departure point at the end of Hythe Pier. Used by tourists and commuters alike, the Hythe Pier Railway is the UK's oldest electric pier train, in operation continuously since 1909 to transport passengers along what is one of the longest piers in the country (it's 640 meters long).

Be sure to spend a little time exploring Hythe, too. In addition to the splendid views back over Southampton, it can also serve as a jumping-off point from which to explore the lovely New Forest area, or the popular National Motor Museum at Beaulieu; local bus services will get you there in minutes, as it's just five miles from Hythe.

Address: The Pier, Prospect Pl, Hythe, Southampton, Hampshire

Official site: https://hytheferry.co.uk

One of five lovely central parks to explore in Southampton, Houndwell Park is located just minutes from the city center and is a great place to spend time if you're in need of some green space. In addition to a medieval- and maritime-themed playground for the kids, the park features numerous benches along its tree-lined and shady pathways.

A notable landmark is the 50-foot-tall William Chamberlayne Gas Column , built in the early 1800s. From here you can also explore four other connected parks, including East Park , worth visiting for its memorial to the Titanic 's engineers.

Address: 563 Vincents Walk, Southampton, Hampshire

Official site: www.southamptonrocks.co.uk/listings/houndwell-park

The magnificent ruins of Netley Abbey, founded in 1239, have inspired many English writers, poets, and artists over the years, most notably the painter John Constable . The village of Netley is also worth visiting and is associated with famous people such as Queen Victoria, who laid the foundation stone of the Royal Victoria Military Hospital, which Florence Nightingale helped design.

It's also where Arthur Conan Doyle's fictional Dr. Watson was said to have trained. Nearby is the Royal Victoria Country Park, which covers some 200 acres of woods and parkland, as well as a small shingle beach.

Location: Abbey Hill, Netley, Hampshire

Official site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/netley-abbey/

In Southampton, most of the top attractions are scattered around the city, including the Tudor House and Garden, the old city walls, the SeaCity Museum, and the Titanic Trail. For easy access to all these attractions as well as the port, the center of town makes a great base, especially for first-time visitors.

Visitors traveling to the city to board a cruise ship often stay near the southern end of town for easy access to the terminals. Here are some highly rated hotels in these convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Sleek, bright, and modern, the pet-friendly Novotel Southampton has a fitness center and indoor swimming pool. It's also near the West Quay Shopping Centre and an easy five-minute drive from the cruise ship terminals.
• Also handy to the port and less than five minutes on foot to the Tudor House and Garden, Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour Hotel has a triangular-shaped glass facade and an inviting indoor pool. Some rooms have sea views.
• The Mercure Southampton Centre Dolphin , in a heritage-listed Georgian building, blends original architectural features with modern decor, steps away from the old city walls and the Tudor House and Garden.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Handy to the cruise ship terminals, Holiday Inn Southampton boasts a pool and sea views and is at the top end of the mid-range options, while The Blue Keys , north of the city center, is popular for its great-value rates and friendly staff.
• In the heart of the city, Premier Inn Southampton West Quay Hotel offers modern comforts near a popular shopping mall, a short hop from the Tudor House and Garden.

Budget Hotels:

• The pet-friendly Ibis Southampton Centre offers clean, basic rooms in a convenient location near the West Quay Shopping Centre and Southampton Central Station.
• Less than two kilometers from the city center, the homey Elizabeth House Hotel has free parking and a bistro-style restaurant, while The Regent Guest House , slightly farther from town, is a B&B with warm, welcoming staff.

More on England

Top 10 things to do in South East England (+ practical tips)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 8, 2024

In this article discover our selection of 10 of the VERY BEST things to do & places to visit in South East England plus practical tips and information to make the most of your visit.

The counties of South East England are easily accessible from London and provide a myriad of interesting things to do and places to visit. Whether you are looking for inspiration for day trips from London by train or for places to add to a UK road trip itinerary you will find lots of great suggestions and practical advice in this article about things to do in South East England.

South East England is the most populated area of England and includes the counties of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, Surrey, West Sussex, Kent and the Isle of Wight.

If you would like to engage the services of a private driver guide for tours of South East England (with tour options including Hever Castle, Leeds Castle, and Dover Castle) we recommend John England Tours . John is a professional tour guide who provides personalised private day tours and will ensure you have a memorable day experiencing an authentic England that many visitors miss. Click here for more information about John England Tours.

1. Visit the Brighton Pavilion

2. the mary rose and hms victory, 3. arundel castle, 4. chichester and fishbourne roman palace, 5. leeds castle, 6. canterbury cathedral, 7. highclere castle, 8. the university city of oxford, 9. winchester cathedral, 10. blenheim palace, (bonus #11) bletchley park, fast facts – south east england, where will you go in south east england, places to visit in south east england.

There are lots of great things about Brighton but my favourite place to visit in this coastal city is the famous Royal Pavilion.

Transformed in 1815 by the Prince Regent (known as King George IV when he ascended to the throne) its opulent Eastern and Indian influences and flamboyant design is something to behold!

The Royal Pavilion is open daily (except Christmas and Boxing Day) but check the website for times as they vary throughout the year.

Read more |  Brighton Travel Guide

The Mary Rose and the Victory are two famous and historically important ships.

The Mary Rose is the older of the two ships and was Henry VIII’s flagship between 1510 and 1545. It was involved in numerous battles against his enemies and was sunk in 1545 during a battle with France. The ship was raised from the seabed of the Solent in 1982.

The Victory was Admiral Horatio Nelson’s flagship and fought in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

These historic vessels are located in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

Read more | The Mary Rose | The Victory

Arundel Castle in West Sussex dates back nearly 1000 years. The former home of the Duke of Norfolk is one of a number of historic castles located close to London (all worth a visit if you have time)

The castle is open from May through to November (see the official website link below) with open-air shows and family-friendly events held throughout the year. 

At present (August 2020) there are two ticket options available – £10 for entry to the gardens and £15 for entry to the castle and gardens. All tickets must be purchased online with date and arrival slots available from Friday for the following week.

If you are visiting the castle by train (which I highly recommend as parking is not easy) it is only a 10-minute walk or short taxi ride from the train station.

Alternatively, if you prefer to take a tour and see some of the beautiful countryside along the way this private tour from London to Arundel fits the bill.

I grew up in the shadow of Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland and love anything to do with Roman Britain .

One of the best places in the UK to find out the lives of our Roman invaders in this rather chilly and damp part of the Roman Empire is just outside Chichester at Fishbourne Roman Palace.

This lavish Roman Palace with its beautiful mosaic floors is really worth a visit. Most of the palace has been excavated and the gardens reconstructed so you really get a feel for life in Roman England. The palace is the largest Roman residence in northern Europe and unbelievably was only discovered and excavated in the 1960s!

Read more | Fishbourne Roman Villa

Leeds Castle is famously the former royal residence of 6 of England’s medieval queens. During the reign of Henry VIII, it was transformed into a retreat for the rich and powerful.

Situated in Kent the castle recently celebrated its 900 year anniversary.

Leeds Castle also offers a range of accommodation options in the grounds including holiday cottages and medieval-inspired striped glamping pavilions! 

Read more 5 Historical Treasures in South East England

Read more | Leeds Castle

Featuring as the destination of the characters in Chaucer’s medieval collection of stories known as the Canterbury Tales, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the home of the Archbishop of Canterbury this cathedral city in South East England is a popular tourist destination for visitors to the UK.

In 1170 Thomas Becket the then Archbishop of Canterbury was murdered in the cathedral by followers of King Henry II. Following his recognition as a martyr and saint the shrine of St Becket became a destination for pilgrims during medieval times.

Canterbury is located only an hour away from London by train (no walking necessary) and is a great day trip from the capital. 

Read more | Canterbury Travel Guide

Instantly recognisable to fans of the period drama Downton Abbey Highclere Castle is the home of the 8th Earl and Countess of Carnarvon.

Highclere has an annual calendar of events with a selection of guided tours available. Opening days and hours are variable so do check the official website for more details.

As it is an extremely popular destination for both UK residents and visitors from abroad it is recommended to book as far ahead as possible.

Read more | Planning a visit to Highclere Castle

Another popular and easy day trip from London is to Oxford the ‘City of Dreaming Spires.”

If you are interested in learning more about the history of the university and exploring some of the famous colleges I recommend taking a walking tour.

There are lots of things to see and do in Oxford and it is an easy city to navigate on foot. Consider your footwear and prepare for lots of walking.

If you are a Harry Potter fan you will discover numerous locations in Oxford that feature in many of the films.

Read more: Oxford Travel Guide

Located in the city of Winchester in Hampshire this is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Built by William the Conqueror after his victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066 the cathedral contains the remains of numerous monarchs.

Within its walls you will also find the final resting place of English novelist Jane Austen.

Take a tour of the cathedral with one of their guides and learn about its 1000 year history.

In the crypt you will find one of sculptor Anthony Gormley’s creations Sound II.

Learn more | Winchester Travel Guide

The birthplace of Winston Churchill and ancestral home of the Dukes of Marlborough Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

Visitors can enjoy a tour of the palace and wander around the extensive grounds (designed by Capability Brown) Plan to spend a day if you can as there is a lot to see.

The butterfly house and famous maze are also worth a visit!

Read more | Guide to visiting Blenheim Palace

A bonus #11 addition to this list is Bletchley Park. During the World War 2 this was the top secret headquarters of some of the world’s best codebreakers.

This included mathematical genius Alan Turing who helped break the Enigma code.

Today you can visit Bletchley and learn more about the important work carried out here during the war. Bletchley Park is located 80 km north west of London and can be reached by train.

It is a few minutes walk from Bletchley railway station.

Learn more | Bletchley Park

WHAT TO READ – Best books to read before you visit South East England include The Wind in the Willows , Watership Down , and the Inspector Wexford novels .

WHAT TO WATCH – Best movies to watch before you visit South East England include Les Miserables (Portsmouth Historic Dockyard), Pride and Prejudice (Basildon Park in Berkshire) and The Imitation Game (Bletchley Park)

WHAT TO DO : Click here for recommended tours of the South East

WHERE TO STAY: Click here to find the best accommodation in the South East .

WHAT TO EAT – Whitstable oysters.

WHERE TO EAT – The Fat Duck in Bray (Heston Blumenthal’s Michelin starred restaurant)

PRINCIPLE TRAIN STATIONS – Outside of London these include Ashford International (for the Eurostar), Brighton and Southampton.

TIP: If you are staying in London these destinations are easily accessible on a day trip by train or car.

I hope that these 10 South East points of interest and places to visit will provide lots of ideas for your trip.

Want to explore some of England’s other regions ? Head over to my other area guides to England which include the North East , North West , East Midlands , West Midlands , Yorkshire , South West and East of England .

Heading to Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland? Take a look at my favourite 19 places to visit in Scotland and the top 10 choices for Wales and Northern Ireland

• UK Trip Planner
• Best UK Tours for 2022/3
• UK Staycation Guide

Find more inspiration for your travels in my England Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading, and more to make the most of your trip.

Places to visit in England

Find destinations, cities and places to visit across England and start planning for your 2024 breaks.

Popular Places To Visit

Pretty places to visit in spring

Add these beauties to your holiday list

Places to visit in Durham

Seek out stargazing hotspots

Unlock the best of Britain

Buy your VisitBritain Gift Card

Places to visit in Norwich

Spend a budget weekend in the city

Places to visit in Lindisfarne

Walk in the footsteps of medieval monks

Places to visit in Margate

Your guide to things to do in cool Margate

Places to visit in Eastbourne

Find cool things to do with The Frugality

Places to visit in Birmingham

Discover England's second city

Places to visit in Manchester

Explore this city of reinvention

Places to visit in The Cotswolds

How to visit this bucolic beauty spot on a budget

Places to visit in Lincoln

Plan a break to this East Midlands city

Places to visit in Newcastle

Take a tour of the toon

Places to visit in Herefordshire

Uncover one of England's best-kept secrets

Places to visit in Bristol

Discover the birthplace of Banksy

Places to visit in the Isle of Wight

Discover hidden bays and storybook villages

Places to visit in West Sussex

Get to know the south coast

Places to visit in Exeter

Explore Devon's coastal capital

Places to visit in Coventry

Discover the UK City of Culture

Places to visit in Brighton

Ride a rollercoaster on an age-old pier

Places to visit in Liverpool

Discover Merseyside's musical legends

Places to visit in Whitby

Unravel this intriguing coastal town

Peruse the City of Dreaming Spires

Places to visit in York

Walk in the footsteps of Vikings

Places to visit in the Lake District

Check out some amazing Cumbrian views

Places to visit in Dorset

Explore the Jurassic Coast

Places to visit in St Ives

Unearth this iconic Cornish seaside town

Explore our regions

• Herefordshire
• Leicestershire
• Lincolnshire
• Northamptonshire
• Nottinghamshire
• Peak District
• Staffordshire
• Warwickshire
• Stratford upon Avon
• West Midlands
• Worcestershire
• Cambridgeshire
• East Riding of Yorkshire
• North Yorkshire
• North York Moors
• Scarborough
• Yorkshire Dales and Harrogate
• Northumberland
• South Yorkshire
• Tyne and Wear
• NewcastleGateshead
• West Yorkshire
• Lake District
• Bedfordshire
• Buckinghamshire
• East Sussex
• Hertfordshire
• Isle of Wight
• Oxfordshire
• West Sussex
• Bournemouth
• Gloucestershire

We've something we want to share

Want to receive travel tips and ideas by email?

VisitEngland would like to invite you to take part in a short survey about our website, it should take no more than a couple of minutes.

Go to the survey

To add items to favourites …

… you need to be logged in.

If you already have an account, log in.

Or register a new account

Access your account

Skip To Main Content

Follow Us...

What's on in bournemouth, christchurch and poole.

• Map of Berkshire
• Bracknell Forest
• Map of Buckinghamshire
• Beaconsfield
• Great Missenden
• High Wycombe
• Milton Keynes
• Newport Pagnell
• Map of Hampshire
• Basingstoke
• East Hampshire
• Hayling Island
• South Downs
• Southampton
• Map of Isle of Wight
• Map of Kent
• Broadstairs
• Royal Tunbridge Wells
• Map of Oxfordshire
• Chipping Norton
• Henley-on-Thames
• Wallingford
• Map of Surrey
• Map of Sussex
• East Grinstead
• Littlehampton
• Around Gatwick
• Map of Dorset
• Bournemouth
• Christchurch
• City Breaks
• Tourist Information Centres
• Travel Information
• Weekend Breaks
• A - Z Towns, Cities and Villages
• Accessible Accommodation
• B&B & Guest Houses
• Campervan Hire
• Camping & Touring Caravan Parks
• Caravan and Holiday Parks
• Dog Friendly
• Pubs With Rooms
• Self Catering Holiday Cottages
• Buckinghamshire
• Isle of Wight
• Oxfordshire
• What's On in Berkshire
• What's On in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
• What's On in Buckinghamshire
• What's On in Hampshire
• What's On in Kent
• What's On in London
• What's On in Oxfordshire
• What's On in Surrey
• What's On in Sussex
• What's On Isle of Wight
• Music Festivals
• Food Festivals
• Experiences
• Free Things To Do
• Family Activities
• Breweries & Distilleries
• Churches & Cathedrals
• Historic Houses
• Racecourses
• Steam Railways
• Theme & Water Parks
• Zoos & Wildlife
• Blue Flag Beaches in Dorset
• Blue Flag Beaches in Hampshire, Sussex and IOW
• Blue Flag Beaches in Kent
• Seaside Award-Winning Beaches in Dorset
• Seaside Award-Winning Beaches in Kent
• Seaside Award-Winning Beaches in Sussex & IOW
• South East England Beaches
• Boat Trips & Water Sports
• Country Parks
• Countryside
• Guided Tours
• On the Water Adventures
• Outdoor Spaces
• Afternoon Tea
• Great Country Pubs
• Made in South East
• Outdoor Dining
• Restaurants
• Shopping Centres
• Accessible Attractions
• Royal Connections
• World Heritage Sites
• Film & TV Locations
• Literary Links

Towns & Villages

• Group Travel
• Arriving from North America
• Arriving from Scandinavia
• Arriving from Europe
• Conference and Weddings
• Sustainable Tourism
• It's Competition Time
• 3 million acres of natural beauty
• 400 miles of stunning coastline
• Autumn/Winter Staycations & Days Out
• Award Winning Destination
• Celebrating Events Throughout The South East
• Following in the Footsteps of Royalty
• South East Literary Links
• South East Destinations
• Wine Capital of the UK

Brighton Beach West Pier

Credit Visit Brighton, East Sussex

You are here: Places To Visit > Sussex

Things To Do in Sussex

Share this with

Towns & Villages Search

Towns & villages search.

With 140 miles of coastline and acres of countryside, there are thousands of things to do in a visit to Sussex, whether you're a thrill-seeker, a shopaholic, a nature lover or a foodie - and since you're never more than an hour from London, the capital's delights can play a part in your stay here.

Places to visit in Sussex

Sussex is filled with the beautiful South Downs National Park , the High Weald and Chichester Harbour, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB).  The whole of Sussex's countryside is a joy to behold, rich with elegant stately homes, fairy-tale castles, colourful gardens and cultural connections. The county links coast and countryside, East Sussex and West Sussex smoothly together.  

Get up close and personal with Hastings’ smugglers, Eastbourne's adrenaline junkies, Arundel's antiques, Worthing's natural playground, Chichester's Roman history and  Brighton's gastronomy. Discover more about the county's towns and villages using our interactive map of Sussex .

Top 10 things to do in Sussex

• Royal Pavilion , Brighton
• Drusillas Park , Wealden
• 1066 Battle Abbey and Battlefield , Battle 
• Kew's Wakehurst , Haywards Heath
• Fishers Adventure Farm Park , Billingshurst
• Arundel Castle , Arundel
• Pallant House Gallery , Chichester
• Petworth House & Park , West Sussex
• Chichester Cathedral , Chichester
• Brighton i360 , Brighton

Things to do in Sussex this weekend

Explore more than 200 of Sussex's tourist attractions - many of which are open all year round, so find something to do today with listings for attractions each showing a map and opening times for your convenience. Or why not browse our events guide to find out what's on in Sussex today or this week in the east and west of the county.

Drusillas Park in East Sussex is widely regarded as the best small zoo in Europe. However, animals are only half the fun; visitors can also explore the large adventure play areas and meet their TV heroes! 

The Sussex Guild Shop & Gallery, Lewes is great for those looking for a gift or chance to explore the work of local professional designers. Home to over 100 members, it is located in the imposing Elizabethan house, the Southover Grange.

Visit Arundel  with its thousands of years of history, independent shops, art galleries and restaurants. Wander the cobbled streets, explore the riverside or head off road to the South Downs for countryside walks and cycling. 

Accommodation

A day out in Sussex can easily be extended to two, three or more days, and luckily Sussex offers an array of hotels , inns, B&Bs and other accommodation that will not only help you extend your stay but enhance it.

List of things to do & places to visit for days out in Sussex

For more information about Sussex, including ideas for days out, attractions and events, view the list below for information on things to do and towns and villages within the county. Use the 'map view' button to find something near you.

Number of results:

Number of results: 254

, currently showing 1 to 20.

Drusillas Park

Animal Collection / Zoo

Make WILD memories and enjoy a great family day out at the award-winning Drusillas Park. Drusillas offers a loving home to over one hundred exotic animals, including sloths and penguins!

Rottingdean

Brighton & Hove

Rottingdean is an ideal place to spend an afternoon browsing the shops and galleries, relaxing in Rudyard Kipling's gardens or taking tea in a traditional English tearoom.

Twineham lies in the Adur valley with several attractive houses, including Twineham Place Farm dating from 1620. St Peter's Church is early Tudor, made of mellow red brick with a Horsham slate roof. There are covered pews, a gallery under the tower,

Ansty is a small settlement about four miles from Haywards Heath. Its village sign, situated at the Ansty Cross was painted by the renowned local artist James Forsyth.

Mucky Duck Inn

Rudgwick, Horsham

A traditional Sussex country pub /restaurant with superior en-suite accommodation in a separate building.Family garden with children's play area and adult beer garden with giant chess board.

The narrow streets of flint knapped cottages do not seem to have changed for centuries. There are lovely walks from the village to Charleston Farmhouse (home of Vanessa Bell and other members of the Bloomsbury Group) and up to Firle Beacon.

Battle is a town most famous for the 1066 Norman Conquest and Battle of Hastings. The Abbey commemorates this and there are plenty of things to do nearby.

1066 Battle Abbey and Battlefield

Abbey / Priory

An abbey founded by William the Conqueror on the site of the Battle of Hastings. Battlefield views and new visitor centre with film and interactive exhibition.

The award winning Nostos is a place where a nostalgic feeling of the past meets a delightful smell of the present and a grateful smile for the future.

Ferring, Worthing

A lively Sussex seafront village, between Worthing and Littlehampton.

Kent & East Sussex Railway

Steam Railway

Images of this picturesque line weaveing between Tenterden and Bodiam. England's finest rural light railway enables visitors to experience travel & service from a bygone age aboard beautifully restored Victorian coaches and locomotives.

The Safari Pizza Co

Haywards heath.

Wood fired pizzeria & wine bar based in Haywards Heath, Sussex. Along with fresh pizza, made using homemade, slow proved dough and local ingredients the wine bar also boasts a great selection of interesting and local wines, cocktails and craft beer.

Brighton Beach Bikes

Cycle/Vehicle Hire

Brighton & Hove bike hire allows you to ride a bike safely for 15 miles without crossing any busy roads as we’re the only cycle hire service right on the seafront cycle lane.

Parham House & Gardens

Historic House / Palace

Set in the heart of an ancient deer park, Parham House and Gardens is situated below the South Downs. The house and gardens have been lovingly restored by the Pearson family who bought Parham in 1922.

Pulborough is a rural village lying across the line of the Roman Stane Street (the A29) which historically connects London and the north to important south coast ports and towns.

Winter Gardens Theatre

The Winter Garden consists of the Floral Hall, Gold Room and Devonshire Halls, used for functions, music, shows, conferences, exhibitions and comedy clubs.

Renowned for its bracing and equable climate since Victorian times, there are plenty of things to do in the seaside town Bexhill & the surrounding area.

In the heart of mid Sussex is Haywards Heath, which owes much of its growth to the railway. The town has an impressive collection of Victorian and Edwardian houses, many situated in mature grounds surrounding the Conservation Area of Muster Green.

Petworth - a perfect blend of history, culture and shopping!

A charming stylish city, Chichester combines all the things to do of a thriving urban centre with the remains of Roman streets, walls and gateways and the rural delights of nearby towns & villages in West Sussex

• Berkshire ,
• Buckinghamshire ,
• Hampshire ,
• Isle of Wight ,
• Oxfordshire ,
• Around Gatwick ,
• Bournemouth ,
• City Breaks ,
• Tourist Information Centres ,
• Travel Information ,
• Weekend Breaks ,
• A - Z Towns, Cities and Villages ,
• Accessible Accommodation ,
• B&B & Guest Houses ,
• Campervan Hire ,
• Camping & Touring Caravan Parks ,
• Caravan and Holiday Parks ,
• Spa Hotels ,
• Pubs With Rooms ,
• Self Catering Holiday Cottages ,
• What's On in Berkshire ,
• What's On in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole ,
• What's On in Buckinghamshire ,
• What's On in Hampshire ,
• What's On Isle of Wight ,
• What's On in Kent ,
• What's On in London ,
• Music Festivals ,
• What's On in Oxfordshire ,
• What's On in Surrey ,
• What's On in Sussex ,
• Food Festivals ,
• Free Things To Do ,
• Family Activities ,
• Attractions ,
• Award-Winning Beaches ,
• Outdoor Activities ,
• Food & Drink ,
• Accessible Attractions ,
• Dog Friendly ,
• World Heritage Sites ,
• Countryside ,
• Film & TV Locations ,
• Literary Links ,
• Royal Connections ,
• Military Connections ,
• Travel Trade ,
• Coach & Tour Operators ,
• South East Destinations ,
• Award Winning Destination ,
• Wedding Venues ,
• Meet Beyond London ,
• Top 10 Campsites ,
• Top 10 History & Heritage ,
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Event Submission Form

© Visit South East England 2024. All Rights Reserved

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Taylor Swift fans flock to London pub apparently referenced on new album

Staff at the Black Dog in Vauxhall ‘100% certain’ theirs is the pub mentioned in song of the same name

Last Thursday was shaping up to be a normal day for the Black Dog pub in south London , until its social media traffic mysteriously started ramping up.

The reason was that Taylor Swift’s new album had leaked, featuring a song that shared its name. Within an hour of its release, the small venue was deluged with excited fans, while its staff scoured CCTV for a sighting of the world’s biggest pop star.

Over the course of the weekend, thousands of devoted Swifties, as Taylor’s fans call themselves, descended on Vauxhall to feel closer to their favourite artist. The Black Dog’s lyrics reference spotting that an ex-boyfriend was entering the pub – most likely the British actor Joe Alwyn, who lives in the area.

Lily Bottomley, an events and social manager for SC Soho, the small hospitality group that owns the Black Dog, said the mention had taken the neighbourhood pub by surprise.

“I was like, wow, what a coincidence, that’s crazy. Then traffic got bigger, and then just exploded when her album went live. We created a TikTok, started posting, interacting with fans. We’re completely booked out this week and we’re nearly full for her tour dates. It’s been amazing for the business, the fans have been overwhelmingly positive,” she said.

The atmosphere was one of “celebration, super jovial, really good vibes” at the weekend, Bottomley said, adding that the pub had hired last-minute security to deal with the surge.

Bottomley said fans were particularly interested to learn whether it was Alwyn or Swift’s other British ex-boyfriend, Matty Healy, referred to in the song. She has confirmed that the pub has had “a certain blond regular in a few times”, in a coy reference to Alwyn’s hair colour.

She is “100% certain” the pub is the one referenced in the song, since Swift has previously talked about nights out in neighbouring Brixton.

She said: “We’ve been looking at past security footage [for Swift]. We haven’t found anything but you never know. I’ve heard that whenever she visits places she puts a cap on, so we could have missed it. We’d love to have her back.”

When the Guardian visited at the pub’s opening at midday on Monday, a steady stream of Swifties were paying their respects.

Emilia Linton, 24, and Katie McGowan, 28, had rushed to the Black Dog before flying home to Vienna, and were keen to secure some content for their Instagram Stories.

“It makes you feel the song more, because you know what she’s referencing,” Linton said. “She’s a lyrical genius, she introduced me to country, and she makes it cool to be a girl again.”

While McGowan had expected a dingier locals’ pub, Linton argued that the upmarket gastropub’s “sweet, girlie” ambience was more fitting.

The pair’s friend, Liz, 23, from Leeds, said: “It feels very like, if you’re American, what you’d think a pub was. I just don’t see Taylor Swift in a ’Spoons.”

She had previously enjoyed visiting the Beechwood cafe in LA, mentioned in a Harry Styles song, and was keen to recreate the experience. “I just love getting recommendations, from friends and stuff – including my close personal friend Taylor,” Liz said.

The trio welcomed fellow Swift fan Tyler Ewings, 18, on to their table. He was visiting from Plymouth. “I thought I’d come see what it’s like, take in the vibe of it,” he said. “Swifties are a very tight-knit community and actually kind of loving. If you go to a concert you’ll talk to loads of people outside the venue.”

He said the specificity of the pub’s mention made him feel more connected to Swift. “With London Boy she referenced all kinds of places in London, but to target one place, it feels like she’s gone in deeper.”

Julien Dimitrov, 30, had dragged his reluctant boyfriend to the pub on the final day of their holiday before returning to the Czech Republic. When he realised the Black Dog was in London, he was thrilled by the coincidence. “I immediately thought I must visit it,” he said.

The pub’s mention reflects all that he cherishes in Swift: “She’s so open, so friendly, so human, down to earth, relatable – even though she’s famous.”

• Taylor Swift

More on this story

‘Like eating too much chocolate’: Guardian readers on Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department

Taylor Swift’s new album becomes Spotify’s most-streamed in a day

Taylor Swift fans given ‘urgent warning’ as £1m lost in ticket scams

Taylor Swift’s Super Tuesday message urging fans to vote gets mixed reaction

Taylor Swift can teach us all a lesson in how democracy works

Taylor Swift is related to Emily Dickinson, genealogy company reveals

Taylor Swift: Singapore prime minister defends deal to secure exclusive access to Eras tour

Singapore sought exclusivity deal over Taylor Swift concerts in south-east Asia, Thai PM alleges

Glitz and glamour at Super Bowl takes shine off New York fashion week

US rightwing conspiracy theory touts Taylor Swift as ‘Pentagon asset’

Most viewed.