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The Top 20 Things to Do in England

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While many travelers coming to England spent their time in London, the country has a lot to offer outside the capital, from mountainous hiking to seaside walks to famous theaters. Whether you want to experience history and culture or simply enjoy England's delicious food and drinks, there's something to do for every type of traveler. Here are the top 20 things to do around England.

Take a Walking Tour of London

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The best way to see London is on foot. The British capital is very walkable, with many famous attractions within close proximity to the city center. Start in Parliament Square, where you can see Westminster Abbey , the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben . Visitors can also get a great photo of the Thames and the London Eye from Westminster Bridge. From there, it's a quick walk to Buckingham Palace or to Trafalgar Square, where you'll find the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery. Other nearby attractions include the Churchill War Rooms, Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus, and the Tate Modern , which can be found across the Thames on Southbank. If it's raining or if you have mobility issues, jump on one of the double-decker London buses or grab a ticket for the Hop On Hop Off London Bus Tours , which drive by many of the iconic sites.

Visit Stonehenge

Stonehenge is an iconic site for a reason, and its mysterious stones compel thousands of travelers every year. The Neolithic structure, a World Heritage Site, is easily accessible from London, either via car or day tour, and visitors will see the famous stone circle and ancient houses and a museum that details the area's history. It's impressive in itself, but history buffs should include stops at nearby Woodhenge, a historic burial ground, or Old Sarum, home to the ruins of a cathedral and castle, on their journey to Stonehenge. Book tickets for Stonehenge in advance online (look for an off-peak day to save money).

See a Play in Stratford-upon-Avon

Shakespeare's birthplace, Stratford-Upon-Avon, is filled with the legacy of the Bard, including his father's former home and Anne Hathaway's cottage. The Royal Shakespeare Company performs plays in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Swan Theatre, and it's a great treat to see one while in England. It's common for bigger-name actors, like Sir Ian McKellen, to appear in the plays, but you really can't go wrong with tickets to any local productions. The Royal Shakespeare Company also offers tours of the theaters, which take visitors behind the scenes. There is a special Family Fun Tour for kids to learn about putting on a Shakespeare play.

Stroll the Jurassic Coast

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While many visitors may be familiar with the iconic white cliffs of Dover, England's Jurassic Coast offers even more dramatic vistas. The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the English Channel from East Devon to Dorset , stretches 95 miles and reveals 185 million years of the Earth's history in its geology. It's well-known area for fossil hunting, and many of the rocks and fossils found along the coast date back to the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. Opt for a guided walk in Lyme Regis or Charmouth to scour for fossils yourself. The Museum of Jurassic Marine Life in Kimmeridge also hosts tours, which are a good way to learn about the region's history and experience the coastline firsthand. There are also several popular walking routes in Dorset, including Old Harry Rocks, which begins at Studland Bay, and a trek from Bowleaze Cove to Smuggler’s Inn.

Dance at Glastonbury

England is home to several famed music festivals, but its biggest—and most raucous —is Glastonbury . The five-day festival is held in Somerset on a private farm every June, featuring live music, theater, comedy, and more. Most festival-goers camp onsite, which can get pretty muddy. Tickets sell out very quickly, but Glastonbury is beloved for a reason. It attracts the biggest acts in music, from Paul McCartney to Beyonce to Coldplay, and it's the sort of thing you have to experience to believe. The festival welcomes all ages, although an adult must accompany those under 16.

Eat Seafood in Whitstable

Courtesy of Whitstable Oyster Co

The seaside town of Whitstable, located on the coast of Kent, hosts the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival each summer. Of course, you can chow down on delicious seafood there any time of year at one of its many restaurants. Look for The Lobster Shack, The Marine Hotel Restaurant, and Crab and Winkle to taste the local catches, or grab a table at The Whitstable Oyster Company , which serves up the best oysters in town. The restaurant has views of the beach and its own oyster beds, where the famous Whitstable oysters are harvested.

Watch Football in Manchester

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England's football (a.k.a. soccer) culture runs deep, but it's powerful in Manchester. The northern city is home to several teams , including Manchester United and Manchester City. While it can be challenging to get tickets to Premier League matches, it's a bucket list experience for many travelers, especially if you're a soccer fan. Snag tickets to one of the matches at Etihad Stadium or Old Trafford while in Manchester, or head into one of the city's boisterous sports bars to cheer alongside the locals. Some favorites include Tib Street Tavern Manchester and Cafe Football, which is located in Old Trafford.

Bathe in Thermal Waters in Bath

Bath was once home to the Roman Baths, which still exist in ruins, and today visitors can partake in the healing waters of the region. The Thermae Bath Spa , which has a rooftop pool with views of the cathedral, makes for a relaxing day out. There are two mineral baths, and each session lasts two hours. The pools are only for visitors 16 and over, so be sure to find a babysitter if you're traveling with kids. To take advantage of your trip to Bath, book into The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, which is located in the town's famed Royal Crescent, and tour the Roman Baths, which are part historic ruin and part museum.

Punt in Cambridge

If you've never been punting, Cambridge is a good place to learn. The River Cam stretches through the center of the university town, and there are various places to hire a boat along the river. Look for companies like Let's Go Punting , which takes visitors on 50-minute private or shared punting boat tours between Magdalene College and Silver Street Bridge. Scudamore's is another popular option for tours, and the company also offers champagne and afternoon tea tours, where you can drink while your guide steers you down the river. Prefer to do it yourself? Rent a boat for a few hours and learn the art of guiding a vessel with a pole.

Explore History in York

Hop on a train two hours north from London to discover York, a walled city that the Romans founded. It's home to a 13th-century Gothic cathedral called the York Minster (be sure to climb to the top of the tower for some serious views) and the Shambles, a very narrow medieval street with overhanging buildings. It's rumored that the Shambles inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter, although you won't find any wizarding shops in the area. York has some nice pubs and tea rooms, and its downtown has great shopping. Be sure to take a stroll around the city walls , which extend for two miles and are open daily to the public from 8 a.m. until dusk.

Tour Windsor Castle

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Windsor Castle, home of Queen Elizabeth II, is one of Britain's most iconic landmarks and its proximity to London makes it a must-do on any itinerary. The castle welcomes visitors year-round for paid tours of the castle's rooms and grounds, including St. George's Chapel, where Harry and Meghan got married. Timed tickets can be booked online in advance. Check the opening times, which can vary throughout the year, and be sure to give yourself enough time in Windsor to tour the castle and explore the surrounding town. Tours of Windsor Castle are self-guided with a multimedia guide, and it's a great excursion for kids and adults. The castle is also fully accessible and offers discounts for guests with disabilities.

Drive Through the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds spans nearly 800 square miles, containing numerous quaint villages and expanses of rolling green hills. The area is one of England's most beautiful and it's best experienced with a car, which allows travelers to visit several towns in one swoop. Some of the favorite villages include Cheltenham, Stroud, Broadway, Burford, and Bourton on Water, which has been called the Venice of the Cotswolds. All of them are equally charming and filled with small shops, tea rooms, and cafes, as well as historic hotels and B&Bs. Stop by one of the National Trust properties, like Newark Park, Chedworth Roman Villa, or Buscot Park, and be sure to spend a few hours exploring Blenheim Palace.

Surf in Cornwall

Located on the southwestern tip of England, Cornwall draws surfers worldwide to its scenic beaches. The coast, dubbed the Cornish Riviera, has hundreds of beaches, several of which are famous for catching a wave. Head to Fistral Beach in Newquay or Gwithian Beach in Hayle to spot the experts, or rent a board to try your hand at the sport. If you want some lessons, there are numerous surf schools for beginners in Cornwall, including the Fistral Beach Surf School, which is open year-round. While in Cornwall , don't miss the Eden Project, the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, and Pendennis Castle.

Hike the Lake District

The Lake District, located in Cumbria, is one of England's most picturesque destinations, welcoming travelers to its mountains, lakes, and villages year-round. It's especially compelling for hikers, who will find many trails and routes through the national park and surrounding areas. Summit Scafell Pike or trek the Roman High Street Circuit, which extends along an old Roman road. Those who want a little help learning the routes can join a guided walk , which the Lake District offers from April through October. If you want a real challenge, go for the Three Peaks Challenge , which includes Scafell Pike along with Scotland's Ben Nevis and Wales' Snowdon.

Trail the Beatles in Liverpool

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Liverpool, a city in northwest England, located at the meeting point between the River Mersey and the Irish Sea, is best known as the birthplace of the Beatles. And while the city has lots to see and do, it's the Fab Four who really draw visitors. Visit the Cavern Club, a venue that once saw the band onstage, or hop on their Magical Mystery Tour , which stops by the musicians' former homes, Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields. There's also the Liverpool Beatles Museum and the annual Liverpool Beatles Week, which takes place in August. The Hard Days Night Hotel is the world's only Beatles-inspired hotel, and guests can book themed suites or see live music in the lounge. If you have time between Beatles-inspired excursions, be sure to also stop by the Tate Liverpool, the Museum of Liverpool, Liverpool Cathedral, and the Merseyside Maritime Museum.

Dine in Bray

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Bray, a small village located just outside London on the Thames, is home to several of England's best restaurants, including Heston Blumenthal's The Fat Duck , which has three Michelin stars. It can be tricky to get a reservation to the pricy Fat Duck (although it's worth it), but visitors have plenty of other options. The Waterside Inn, The Crown, and The Hind's Head, which Blumenthal also runs, are delicious and slightly easier to book. If you want to stay in town, The Waterside Inn has several rooms, or head to nearby Maidenhead, situated alongside the river. It's a must-visit for all foodies, but history buffs will also appreciate the old buildings and small-town charm in Bray.

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Cliveden House

Cliveden House

Afternoon tea is one of those British things you can't—and shouldn't—avoid while in England. Most hotels offer a version of afternoon tea, especially in London, and it's also traditional in various tea rooms around the country. But if you're going to partake in an afternoon of milky tea and scones, you should reserve a table at the best possible venue. The historic Cliveden House Hotel , found outside London on National Trust gardens, is just the spot. It's a luxury experience best enjoyed with added champagne (although kids are also welcome). It's held in the hotel's Great Hall on Sundays and in the Cliveden Dining Room Monday through Saturday, and it's best to make a reservation well in advance. Don't be afraid to ask for your leftovers. The hotel will be happy to box up any extra treats later, as is common with most high-end afternoon teas.

Visit the Real Downtown Abbey

While Downton Abbey isn't a real place, the castle in the beloved TV series (and movie) is. Highclere Castle, located in Winchester, was built in 1679 and is now home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon. Highclere, which has expansive, beautiful grounds and gardens, welcomes visitors at different points throughout the year. The visiting times can vary, so check the online calendar for the best time to explore the castle and look for upcoming special events held at Highclere throughout the year. The castle is best accessed by car (it has parking for visitors), but you can take a taxi from the nearby Newbury train station, which connects with London. Don't miss Highclere's tea rooms, which are great for a snack after your tour.

Tour Canterbury Cathedral

You could spend a lot of time touring historic cathedrals while in England, but the most famous is Canterbury Cathedral. Part of a World Heritage Site, the cathedral, located in Canterbury, was founded in 597 and rebuilt in the 11th century. It's the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury, who leads the Church of England, and offers services weekly. You don't have to be religious to appreciate the impressive structure's history and architecture, however. A million people per year visit the building to see everything from St. Gabriel’s Chapel to The Great Cloister.

Take a Ride on Brighton Pier

Brighton Pier first opened on the English seaside in 1899, spanning 1,722 feet over the water. It's hosted visitors and locals ever since, with a particular draw for families. Look for rides like the Turbo Coaster and the Booster, or head to the Palace of Fun to win a prize at one of the games. Brighton is only an hour from London by train, making a great day trip from the city, and the beaches are especially welcoming during the summer months. If you like music, head to Brighton in May when it puts on The Great Escape, a music festival that takes over all area venues.

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15 of the best things to do in England

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Experience the best of England with these top things to do © SolStock / Getty Images

With its wild coastline, ancient history and cultural contributions that have left a mark around the world, England is one of the world’s most alluring destinations.

And while the famous landmarks and 24/7 buzz of London will always seduce first-time visitors , there are a ton of unique attractions outside the capital that deserve your attention.

From almost-cinematic hikes in the Lake District to the jaunty street art of Bristol, amazing adventures can be had up and down this green and pleasant land. The weather is always changeable, but England’s status as a world-class destination is never in doubt. Here are the best things to do in England.

1. Walk the magnificent medieval walls of York

Many historic cities in Europe retain their original city walls, but few are in as good condition as the 4m (13ft) stone walls surrounding the English city of York . Though the first fortifications were built by the Romans, the current walls are around 700 years old and date back to the medieval period. Stroll atop the walls, and you'll get some stunning views of this city’s soaring spires and crooked rooftops, especially the section behind the grandiose York Minster .

2. Discover the street art of Banksy’s old neighborhood in Bristol

Take a walk through the colorful streets of Bristol’s Stokes Croft neighborhood to see the city’s creative spirit in full flow. The former hometown of enigmatic artist Banksy, Stokes Croft was also his original canvas, and many of his works can still be seen amid the area’s quirky pubs, cool cafes and vintage boutiques.

From classics such as Mild Mild West (with its Molotov-cocktail toting teddy bear) to lesser-known works such as The Rose Trap on Thomas Street North, Banksy’s influence is indelible.

Local tip: Explore more of Banksy's oeuvre on a superbly detailed tour by Where The Wall .

3. Make like a druid and catch the sunrise at Stonehenge

Bizarre and mysterious, the prehistoric stone circle at Stonehenge is one of England’s most evocative sights and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – befitting a site said to date back as far as 3000 BCE. Most visitors gaze at the 50-tonne stones from behind the perimeter fence, but with enough planning, you can arrange an early-morning or evening tour of Stonehenge and gain access to the inner ring itself. The site takes on an ethereal quality as the golden morning sunlight slants between the stones. 

Planning tip: You can enter the circle for a sunrise ceremony for the summer or winter solstice for free as part of the Managed Open Access days.

4. Hit the world’s greatest museums in London

Working out how to spend your time in London when you only have a few days is an almost impossible task as there’s so much to see and do , but it would be remiss to not visit some of its many remarkable museums. Best of all, the majority can be visited free of charge .

From big-hitters such as the British Museum and Kensington greats including the Natural History Museum  and Science Museum to uniquely London-centric spaces such as Covent Garden ’s London Transport Museum , you’ll never be bored on a rainy afternoon in the English capital.

5. Cycle through the heart of England 

The Cotswolds are lush Olde England at its quaint best, and there are few better ways to explore this patchwork of chocolate-box villages than on two wheels on a warm summer’s day. Spread out over six English counties, this expanse of rolling hills features meandering roads, bucolic landscapes and hundreds of cozy country pubs where you can relax with a pint of real ale at the end of a long ride. For a deep dive into this quintessentially English corner of Britain, hire a bike and tackle the 102-mile Cotswold Way from Chipping Campden to Bath.

6. Catch a play in Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare's hometown

The famous-name theaters of London’s West End are the place to catch all the latest shows, but for a true taste of English drama, head up to Stratford-upon-Avon , the one-time home of William Shakespeare himself. Not only is this quaint riverside town a lovely place to explore, but it’s also the official home of the Royal Shakespeare Company , which stages consistently excellent interpretations of The Bard’s most well-known and not-so-well-known works.

7. Surf the waves of Cornwall's wild coastline

While it might not have the sun-kissed tropical scenes of the Gold Coast or Hawaii , Cornwall’s ragged coastline attracts thousands of surfers every summer, drawn by England’s biggest waves. Fistral Beach in Newquay is the epicenter of English surfing life, and its beach breaks produce powerful, hollow waves under a wide range of conditions. Newquay is also Cornwall’s biggest party town, so after a day of surfing, you can let your hair down in one of its many thumping pubs, clubs and bars. 

Detour:  If time and budget allow, consider exploring further with a visit to the Isles of Scilly . St Mary’s (the biggest of the 140 tiny islands) is accessible by ferry (or helicopter) on a day trip.

8. Take a sea-sprayed train ride in Devon

England was the birthplace of rail travel, and its historic rail lines provide some spectacular opportunities to see the country at its best. For a quick taste, take the Riviera Line from Exeter to Teignmouth, a journey of just over an hour that passes by some of Devon’s most beautiful coastal scenery.

The highlight is the stretch by the Regency resort town of Dawlish, where the train hugs the seafront so closely you can almost taste the spray of the waves as they roll back and forth against the shore. Afterward, settle in on the beach in Teignmouth and dip your toes in the English Channel.

9. See Nelson’s famous flagship up close in Portsmouth

England is home to some of the world’s most famous cathedrals, castles and mansions, but one of its most breathtaking artificial sites is a ship that’s been sitting in dry dock for over 100 years. HMS Victory was Lord Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar – arguably the Royal Navy’s greatest-ever maritime victory – and you can explore its enormous wooden frame at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard . The Victory first launched in 1765, and it’s amazing that this 250-year-old ship still exists.

Planning tip:  The engaging audio guide telling the story of Nelson’s final moments is highly recommended.

10. Get lost in the lanes of Brighton

Brighton is unashamedly alternative, and it’s hard not to fall in love with the place when you enter the quirky warren of roads known as the Lanes. Nearby, the North Laine district is the bohemian heart of Brighton, and its vibrant streets are packed with vegan cafes, espresso bars, chaotic pubs, record stores, bric-a-brac shops and vintage clothing boutiques. Spend an afternoon perusing the dusty shelves of Snoopers Paradise before ordering a local cask ale from the Great Eastern’s narrow and always-lively bar.

11. See a gig in Manchester, England's indie music capital

From Oasis to Joy Division and The Smiths, Manchester  has produced some of the UK’s most iconic bands, and the city's musical heritage is still very much alive today. You'll find a plethora of fabulous venues for live music dotted around the city, so be sure to catch a show when evening comes. From the sweat-soaked backrooms of the Eagle Inn to the ornate Albert Hall , you're guaranteed to find a spot to tune into your fave musical genre.

Local tip: Manchester's latest cultural center, Aviva Studios, is the home of Factory International , which opened in mid-2023 with a vision for reinvigorating the city's creative energy.

12. Hike England’s biggest mountain in the Lake District

William Wordsworth wrote many wonderful words about the Lake District , but it’s unlikely that he ever scaled Scafell Pike (unlike his sister, Dorothy). Rising to 978m (3209ft) above sea level, this is England’s highest mountain, and it offers panoramic views from its craggy summit. You can see the peaks of Yr Wyddfa (Mt Snowdon) in Wales and the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland on a clear day. The rocky Wasdale path is the most popular route to the top, and the 4.2km (2.6-mile) journey should take around three hours to complete.

Planning tip: Hikers and peak baggers should plan on sticking around for a bit – the Lake District has some of the best hikes in the UK .

13. Go for a pint in England’s most remote pub in the Yorkshire Dales

England is one of Europe’s most densely packed countries, and locals place a lot of value on unwinding with a quiet pint. Few places are better for that than the Tan Hill Inn on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park . At 1732ft (528m) above sea level, it’s the highest pub in the British Isles and has been known to be completely snowed in during winter blizzards. Still, the surrounding North Yorkshire landscape has a bleak beauty about it, and this remote spot is a perfect place to get away from it all. 

14. Eat fish and chips on the harbor at Whitby

There are few more English experiences than eating fish and chips in a seaside town. And while the northern fishing village of Whitby is more famous for its connections to Bram Stoker and Dracula , it’s also home to some of the finest and freshest fish and chips in the country.

Order a fresh haddock and chips from Quayside or the Magpie Cafe and sit back and admire Whitby’s famous harbor, which sweeps from a cluster of 18th-century fishing cottages along the East Cliff up to the town's famous ruined hilltop Abbey . Just watch out for mischievous seagulls who'll always have an eye on your food.

Planning tip:  Buying an on-the-spot membership to a heritage organization like English Heritage or the National Trust is good value if you plan to visit lots of historic sites. It includes free admission, as well as information handbooks and car parking.

15. Embrace Beatlemania in Liverpool

Yes, there’s a whole lot more to Liverpool than the Fab Four, but the city is stuffed with myriad museums, pop culture landmarks and subtle references to what was arguably the world’s greatest ever band. Start with the Beatles Story followed by a night at the legendary Cavern Club to get your Fab on. Don’t forget that some of the most unique Beatles sites are out of the city center.

Detour: Check out the real-life Penny Lane on the Magical Mystery Tour or, even better, take a tour of the basement of the Casbah Coffee Club to see where the Beatles played their very first gig in 1959.

This article was first published June 2022 and updated March 2024

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The 15 best places to visit in the UK in 2024

From charming seaside spots to bustling cities, we’ve got all the staycation inspo you need right here

For all the bucket list places around the world, it can be easy to forget that we actually have some pretty amazing places to explore right here on our doorstep. Sure, the British weather can have a mind of its own and train travel can leave a lot to be desired, but if you’re willing to put up with all of that, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what there is to discover. 

From quaint coastal towns with trailblazing restaurants and bustling cities with an edge of their own, to gorgeous islands that feel nothing like the UK , these are the parts of the country that should hands-down be on your staycation wishlist for next year. These places have thriving food, drink and arts scenes, they’re home to exciting new openings and they have plenty of big events for you to scribble into your calendar, pronto. 

Thinking of planning a holiday a little closer to home next year? By sifting through all of the hottest launches for next year and using our expert knowledge of cultural scenes around the country,  Time Out’s UK team has curated the very best British destinations for you to plan a trip to in 2024. And the best part? Y ou can visit most of them easily, cheaply and without having to catch a flight. Time to get booking!

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best  things to do in the UK 🏖️ The best  seaside towns in the UK 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs in the UK

An email you’ll actually love

Where to visit in the UK in 2024

1.  Bristol

Should we really be surprised that (apparently) everyone is moving to Bristol ? Its cultural scene is just as exciting as London ’s, but it’s still only a short coach journey away; it has picture-perfect streets and bustling, diverse nightlife. And i n 2024, its arts offering is only getting better. A musical adaptation of the 2006 film ‘ Starter for Ten ’ is coming to the renowned Old Vic theatre from February 29 to March 30, while   DIASPORA! , a brand new festival showcasing BIPOC global ethnic majority artists – across theatre, dance, music, visual and digital arts, as well as poetry and spoken word – is launching in May.   Undershed , a new immersive gallery, is on track to launch in Spring, and   Boxhall   – a street food, beer and events space by the same people who behind London’s   Boxpark   – will also open its doors.   

The perfect day Start with grabbing a coffee from Clifton Coffee Roasters  before pottering around Gloucester Road and perusing the many shops (it’s the largest strip of independent retailers in Europe). Then, hop on a Bristol Ferry water bus tour  to see the city from the water . Finally, feast on a dinner of Spanish small plates at Bravas (or check out one of the city’s other excellent restaurants ), before heading out to rave the night away at one of the many DIY-style clubs . 

Plan your trip The 2024 edition of Bristol’s newest music festival, Forwards , takes place on August 31 and September 1. 2023 headliners included Aphex Twin, Erykah Badu and Raye .

📍 The best things to do in Bristol 🍴 The   best  restaurants in Bristol

2.  Hull

Hull became a surprising capital for the UK’s LGBTQ+ community in 2023. From  Monroe’s   to Unit 49 and Cherry’s – named after the late ‘Ru Paul’s Drag Race’ star Cherry Valentine – an influx of new gay bars and clubs means Hull’s new Freedom Quarter is slowly growing its ecosystem of queer-friendly spaces. As well as its thriving LGBTQ+ scene, in 2017 the East Yorkshire city was also named the city of culture. It’s got The Deep , an enormous aquarium with 3000 species, a picturesque old town which survived the city’s relentless WWII bombings, and lots of up and coming indie art galleries like Ground and Artlink . Don’t sleep on Hull.

The perfect day  Get your caffeine fix at Still. by Two Gingers Coffee before having a wonder around Hull’s charming old town or pottering in the shops at Hepworth’s Arcade . After that, head to indie events space Ground to check out whatever arty happenings they have on. Finally, stop for a pint at Ye Olde White Hart before heading to one of the infamous 13-hour parties (yes, really) at Gate No. 5 .

Plan your visit Pride in Hull will take place on July 29, 2024. 

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3.  Isles of Scilly

A lot of people say that the Isles of Scilly are the British version of the Caribbean – and you know what? We’d totally agree. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Cornwall is largely unspoilt, with white stretches of sandy beaches, turquoise waters and plenty of opportunities to go island hopping and dolphin spotting. But there’s more, too: head to the local museum to immerse yourself in the islanders’ deep sense of culture and tradition, sink yourself silly on local ales at seaside pubs or indulge your sense of adventure by snorkelling over the many under-the-sea shipwrecks. Bliss. 

The perfect day Travel to the islands by Skybus from Land’s End – it only takes 20 minutes, and there’s a gorgeous view. Once you arrive, make your way over to St Mary’s Riding Centre to take in the stunning scenery on horse-back. If that’s not your thing, hire bikes and explore the coastal trails of St. Mary’s islands before taking a transfer boat to St. Agnes to visit the Turks Head for a hearty pub lunch made using local ingredients. Once your food goes down? It has to be time for a swim.

Plan your trip The Isle of Scilly food festival is a ten-day celebration of local provenance taking place in September, with mouth-watering events like beach BBQs and vineyard tours.

📍 The best places to visit in Cornwall

4.  London

Ah, good old London . No matter how many times you’ve visited or how long you’ve lived there, you’ll always find new things to discover in the capital. There are a tonne of new restaurants to feast at, all sorts of gorgeous hotel openings and plenty of fresh cultural things to do. Most notably, in 2024, you can dance at Drumsheds , the mammoth warehouse club housed in a former IKEA, catch a blockbuster exhibition – like Yoko Ono at the Tate Modern or The World of Tim Burton at the Design Museum – and see epic new West End performances ( Mean Girls , anyone?).

The perfect day  For lunch, grab a delicious loaded sandwich at Dom’s Subs on Hackney Road for (or treat yourself to a boujee meal out at Morito ), before perusing the cute independent shops on Columbia Road and gawking over the even cuter animals at Hackney City Farm . Head over to Soho for a late-afternoon pint at the iconic French House , then round off your day with a delicious pre-theatre dinner at the newly opened Forza Wine at the National Theatre , before catching a play. 

Plan your trip Book tickets to see the stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s ‘ Spirited Away ’, taking place at the London Coliseum from April 30 until August 24.

📍 The best things to do in London 🍴 The best restaurants in London

5.  Belfast

The Norn Iron capital is criminally underrated. If you’re yet to discover its welcoming warmth and cultural vibrance, 2024 is the year to change that. Over the next twelve months Belfast has mega ambitions to deliver its biggest ever cultural celebration via a project dubbed ‘ Belfast 2024 ’. Set around the theme of ‘People, Place and Planet’, the whopping programme of 24 large-scale commissions and over 200 events, workshops and activities includes a collaboration with the Eden Project, a guerilla gardening scheme aimed at rewilding the peace walls in the west of the city and an immersive music showcase celebrating Belfast’s contemporary Black culture.

The perfect day Begin with a wholesome morning stroll through the Botanic Gardens , followed by a hefty brunch at Output . Then wander through the parliament buildings at Stormont and the monumental Titanic Belfast museum. In the evening, find your way to The Muddlers Club hidden within the historic back streets of the Cathedral Quarter, or if you’d rather eat in, order from cult favourite Mexican place Boojums . Round off the evening by grabbing a pint accompanied by some banging live music at the Dirty Onion .

Plan your trip  The cultural celebrations kick off from March and will run through to November. Make sure to be in the city on March 17 for an ‘enhanced’ edition of St Patrick’s Day shindigs.

📍 The best things to do in Belfast

6.  St Andrews

Forgive us for including two Scottish seaside towns in this list (see: number 14), but it’s a good excuse to plan a road trip, right? A coastal gem in the Kingdom of Fife, St Andrews is home to an ancient university, three stunning beaches, botanic gardens, multiple pubs, a famous golf course and not much else. But it’s also beautiful, extremely walkable and very peaceful, and if you’re after a bit more action, it’s also close enough to Dundee to plan a day trip to the renowned V&A museum . St Andrews has also been tipped to be a hit set-jetting destination for 2024 with the town featuring heavily in the final season of ‘ The Crown ’, thanks to it to being where Prince William met Kate Middleton while at university. Fans, come this way.

The perfect day Line your stomach with a delicious fry up from Northpoint (which claims, like many places in town, to be where ‘Will met Kate’). Then, you’ll probably want to go for a lofty beach walk on West Sands, where ‘Chariots of Fire’ was filmed, before returning to town for some fresh fish and chips from Cromar’s (if the weather allows, eat them on another nearby beach: Castle Sands). In the evening, catch a local show at The Byre Theatre  or sink some pints at one of the town’s many pubs: Aikman’s and Brew Co. are very good choices.

Plan your trip  V isit in July: most of the students will have left for the summer and you might actually get to enjoy the beach with some sun.

📍 The essential guide to Scotland

7.  Lewes

‘Like a box of toys under a great amphitheatre of chalk hills... on the whole it is set down better than any town I have seen in England’: so said William Morris about Lewes in the 1800s. The sloping Sussex town has been a favoured haunt of artsy progressives, not least Virginia Woolf, Vanessa Bell and the rest of the bohemian Bloomsbury set. In 2023, it gained a brand new cultural space in the form of Charleston in Lewes (head here in the new year to catch the ‘Bring No Clothes: Bloomsbury and Fashion’ exhibition, closing March 3). There’s more, too: as you wonder Lewes’ charming wonky streets you’ll stumble past the former home of Anne of Cleves, Lewes Castle , a hodgepodge of artisan stores and delicious foodie spots – as well as the most bonkers pub in the UK, the Lewes Arms.

The perfect day  Take the brand new Sussex Art Shuttle and travel a short distance outside of town to see Charleston Farmhouse , before heading back for a veggie burger at Bun and Bean and a pastry dessert from Flint Owl Bakery . Spend the afternoon learning about the history of the castle and Lewes Priory , then browse the independent shops in The Needlemakers . Finish with a meal and a movie at Depot .

Plan your trip  The stunning Glyndebourne Opera House is hosting a festival of world class opera from May 16 to August 25, while the incredible extravaganza that is Lewes Bonfire Night is taking place around November 5.

📍 The best things to do in Lewes

8.  Newcastle

There’s plenty to shout about in Newcastle (and not just the nightlife, though we love that too). The city’s food scene already had a pretty good reputation, but new openings in 2023 have really seen it thrive, like natural wine and pizza spot Bawn  and new brunch spot Cafeteria :  a sort of posh style greasy spoon, which seem to be all the range now. Pair this with a load of great galleries and pubs, the legendary Wylam Brewery and Tyneside Cinema and seriously reasonable prices and you’ve got a cracking weekend away. Or you might just want to pack up and move there. It happens. 

The perfect day  Grab a coffee (with a view) at La Verne Vintage , before walking waterside and over the Quayside bridge. Head to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art and wander through whatever exhibition is on, before heading to the very top floor for fantastic views over the city. Then head to Ouseburn, Newcastle’s coolest neighbourhood, and grab a pint and a banging vegan lunch at The Ship Inn . If you’ve got an itching for more art, check out the Biscuit Factory next door. After a few more pints, hit up World Headquarters for a night on the Toon. 

Plan your trip  The Newcastle Fringe 2024 will run from July 18 to  29. Catch shows at the very cool Northern Stage as well as a number of pubs. 

📍 The best things to do in Newcastle

9.  Falmouth

Falmouth has always been Cornwall’s cooler town. Home to Exeter and Falmouth university campuses, student life here has brought a bit of vibrancy and edge to the quiet cobbled streets – but there’s always been a glaring gap when it came to the question of nightlife. Recently, though – thanks to new music venue  The Cornish Bank  –  its late night credentials have shot up. From Klub Nos Lowen, a cult folk music night, to up and coming indie bands, this spot is the ideal place to absorb some of the county’s best culture.

The perfect day  Start with a paddle at Gyllyngvase Beach, then warm yourself up with a coffee at Gylly beach cafe . Then check out the independent boutiques and galleries on the high street. (Shout out to Mirri Damer jewellery and Wild Pony vintage.) After grabbing some grub from Harbour Lights fish and chips, head to Chain Locker for a harbourside pint before moseying on to a gig at The Cornish Bank. If you have time, pop in to Beerwolf too, a charming pub/bookshop.

Plan your visit  T he annual worm charming championship  (you read that right)  takes place in late May every year. The Sea Shanty Festival  takes place on June  14 to 16  2024, and Falmouth Week , an extravaganza of music, sailing and local culture, takes place on August  9 to 18 .

📍 The best things to do in Falmouth

10.  Manchester

Manchester never fails to serve up a cultural banquet. After a huge year that saw the launch of Factory International at Aviva Studios, the rescue of grassroots gig venue, The Snug , and the long-awaited reopening of Manchester Museum , 2024 is set to be another big one. The star of the show will be the huge, innovative Co-op Live  which is opening in April, backed by Bruce Springsteen and Harry Styles and already has the likes of Liam Gallagher and Oilvia Rodrigo lined up to perform. And in much-anticipated news for its food scene, L’Enclume chef Tom Barnes is opening his first solo restaurant, Skof , in the Noma district in spring.

The perfect day  Swing by Idle Hands to fuel up on carbs and caffeine before perusing around the Northern Quarter’s indie shops (don’t miss Queer Lit or the Craft and Design Centre). Pick from a huge range of edible options at Mackie Mayor for lunch (or head to the Michelin-starred Where The Light Gets In , for something special) then use the new Visit Manchester Pass to check out the National Football Museum and take a craft beer tour of the city. End with a tipple and live music at YES .

Plan your trip  Head up some time between October 23 and 27 to catch the Worldwide Music Expo , which is set to attract over 2,600 big guns from the global music industry.

📍 The best things to do in Manchester 🍴 The best  restaurants in Manchester

11.  Ramsgate

Last year it was all about Margate , but now, another neighbour has joined Kent’s roster of cosy, culture-filled seaside towns that everyone’s getting obsessed with. Enter: Ramsgate , a walkable gem with a hell of a lot of character. Check out one of its locally-run galleries and studios (including Level 11 , specialising in dog pics), and don’t miss filling up at one of its new food offerings: this year, bar/restaurant Seabird  arrived on the scene , as well as new monthly pop-up Catch at the Camden Arms , serving up a delightful seafood set menu. Oh, and the world’s biggest Wetherspoons is here. You heard us. 

The perfect day  Pull up at Ramsgate Station and stroll towards the seafront, stopping at The Modern Boulangerie on Harbour Street for brunch and a ridiculously good cinnamon roll. Take a coffee to go and spend time checking out Ramsgate’s indie shops, from the records at Vinyl Head to the pottery, books and glass at Island Vintage . Head to the harbour and head out on a seal-spotting boat trip , before grabbing a sunset pint at the Royal Harbour Brasserie . Finally, warm up with pub grub at The Bedford Inn  (top tip: you can rent a room at their brand-new hotel too). 

Plan your trip  Go when it’s sunny and try to catch the town’s  International Film Festival in June or the Festival of Sound in August. 

📍 The best things to do in Ramsgate

12.  Norwich

Hugged by the marshes and woodlands of Broads National Park, Norwich brings the ancient to the contemporary — from its cobbled alleyways and two dazzling cathedrals to the modern exhibitions at the Sainsbury Centre and its Michelin-star prowess. In summer 2024,  Norwich Castle (which was apparently one of Europe’s most important mediaeval fortresses) is set to reveal the results of a mighty £15m revamp, due to include redecorated rooms and the restoration of its 12th century Norman keep. As the self-proclaimed ‘City of Stories’ and England’s first UNESCO City of LIterature, you’ll be enchanted by Norwich’s tale.

The perfect day  Order your morning drink of choice at Strangers Coffee then stop by the city’s 900-year old market on Gentleman’s Walk to check out the organic produce and food stalls. Save room for dessert so that you can enjoy elevenses at Figbar then take in the magnificent architecture of Norwich Cathedral and check out the curiosities hiding within the antique shops on Elm Hill. Round it all off with dinner from Grosvenor Fish Bar .

Plan your trip A c elebration of queer art and ideas, Queerfest Norwich is happening February 8 to 24.

📍 The best things to do in Norwich

13.  Alnmouth

For a tranquil seaside break in 2024, the tiny fishing village of Alnmouth on the border between Scotland and England is a solid bet. Think: wild, windswept walks, pastel-coloured fisherman’s cottages, freshly-caught fish and blissful peace and quiet. Three surrounding beaches make up part of Northumberland’s 40-mile long coastal path — which happens to be a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, recently renamed ‘National Landscapes’ – and as such, there’s a delightful cluster of wildlife to look out for, including adorable puffins and grey seals.

The perfect day Sit down for an A.M. coffee and fresh kippers on toast at Bistro23 before checking out Almouth’s cluster of independent stores like Scots of Alnmouth and Jane and Harry’s. Then stop by the Ferry Hut , a bitesize museum dedicated to the ferrymen of yesteryear. Spend the afternoon adventuring along the coastal path before indulging in a well-earned dinner at The Whittling House .

Plan your trip Alnmouth Arts Festival  is happening on June 15 and 16, with more than 50 designers and craftspeople exhibiting their work in venues throughout the village.

14.  Ullapool

A tiny village and port around 45 miles from Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, Ullapool is well situated for walkers and cyclists to get their dose of the great outdoors: explore the nearby Corrieshalloch Falls, scramble up Stac Pollaidh mountain or to hop on a ferry to the Outer Hebrides. But there’s more to this place than just hiking boots and anoraks. Ullapool also going under something of a cultural renaissance, with Scotland’s most remote club night bringing of-the-moment electronic DJs to the area and The Seafood Shack and new 3AA Rosette restaurant  The Dipping Lugger  attracting foodies from far and near. The town was recently chosen as one of Time Out’s most underrated travel destinations in Europe, so get down soon.

The perfect day Wrap up warm and drive over to the foot of Stac Pollaidh mountain, with its spectacular peak of Torridonian sandstone. Reward yourself with a packed lunch on the top after a two-hour climb, before heading home and warming up in The Ferry Boat Inn  where you can enjoy a slap-up dinner with some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat.

Plan your trip The next Baile/Baile club nights take place on February 3 and March 2, showcasing some of Scotland’s most exciting DJ talent.

15.  Wrexham

Who’d have thought a small Welsh city would have been taken over by Hollywood celebs and become the subject of an extremely popular Disney+ documentary? Wrexham, home to the formerly flailing football club Wrexham AFC, became one of the UK’s hottest tourist destinations after A-listers Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought the club in 2020. The city is also home to St Giles’s, one of the most stunning churches in Wales. Then there’s the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – a huge 18-arched stone and cast iron structure carrying the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee – and two National Trust properties, Erddig Parkland and Chirk Castle . In 2024, the national Football Museum for Wales is also expected to open, with exhibitions on Welsh language communities, fan culture and LGBTQ+ experiences.

The perfect day Start the day at Aussi brunch spot Lot 11 . After fueling yourself, you’re obviously going to want to check out The Racecourse, the stadium that’s home to Wrexham AFC. Then you’ll need to grab a pint at The Turf , the football team’s pub of choice. For the afternoon, hop in the car for a 20 minute drive to check out the gorgeous views from the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and surrounding World Heritage Site.

Plan your trip Wrexham Feast , an annual food and drink festival, takes place in late September.

📍 The best things to do in Wrexham

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15 most beautiful places in England for your next staycation

From meandering rivers and canals with motionless herons and barely moving barges to cathedral cities with ancient colleges and professors on bicycles, england is a country that delights at every turn.

T he quintessential English landscape comes in many different forms. Inland, it’s a confection of church spires and misty meadows, of crenellated manor houses with gorgeous gardens, and handsome Georgian villages trellised with roses. This is a landscape threaded by bucolic rivers lined with oak and willow, where rollercoaster dales are stitched with drystone walls. Along the coast, it’s lined by a mix of snaggle-toothed headlands and golden beaches, with creeks and estuaries that harbour old-fashioned resorts and fishing villages. And sitting offshore is a selection of islands, each of them distinctively different. Yet all of this is England — a place that has something for everyone. So here is our selection of the country’s most beautiful places to visit.

Main photo: Romney Marsh (Alamy)

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This ancient Roman city, encircled by its original walls, has a history that stretches back nearly 2,000 years. Its magnificent cathedral (aka “Minster”) has a fascinating story of restoration from a huge fire way back in 1984. Downtown, the city’s almost traffic-free centre is a lacework of cobbled medieval alleyways — the Shambles — where overhanging ancient mansions seem to whisper sweet nothings to each other. Wonky beams and sloping floors characterise most interiors, with tea and cake around every corner, particularly at the much-loved Bettys Café Tea Rooms. York is the home of Rowntree’s, the chocolate manufacturer, so there’s a chocolate museum and independent chocolatiers all over town.

• Best hotels in York • Best boutique hotels in York • Bets things to do in York

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2. holy island, northumberland.

The Northumberland coastline is a string of blemish-free sandy beaches interrupted by dramatic castles and old fishing villages. Sitting just offshore is the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, a mystical place reachable by a causeway that is only driveable (or walkable) at certain stages of the tide. On the island there’s a ruined priory, a 16th-century castle on a rock, and a real sense of peace among birdsong and woodsmoke. The island’s name dates back to the time when this was an early outpost of Christianity, and whether you’re a believer or not, it remains a place of serenity and contemplation, which puts daily life into perspective.

3. South Downs and the Seven Sisters

The grass-topped wave of hills of the Sussex Weald form the backbone of the South Downs, Britain’s newest national park. Up here are rollercoaster, sheep-grazed grasslands mixed with oak coppice and wildlife-rich heathland. These are chalk hills, although they only really show their colours where the downlands meet the sea, at the searingly white Seven Sisters cliffs. Striding along the cliff edge here, from Eastbourne to Seaford via Beachy Head and the beach at Cuckmere Haven, is one of England’s favourite coastal walks.

• The White Horse, Graffam, hotel review • The Pig in the South Downs hotel review

4. The North York Moors, Yorkshire

This national park with a coastline comes with all the credentials: Yorkshire ’s wild and wonderful rolling hills, infiltrated by pastoral valleys such as that at Rosedale, complete with old mine workings on the valley sides. A heritage steam railway clambers over the hills from Pickering to Grosmont, wheezing and blowing as it goes. Whitby is a lively coastal resort, renowned for its fish and chips, Dracula connections and ruined abbey. And then there’s the coastal path that struggles from sheltered bays to wild headlands, with spectacular views.

• Best hotels in Yorkshire

5. Grasmere and Ambleside, Cumbria

These two towns encapsulate so much that is great about the Lake District . Grasmere, with its bijou spangle of water, is all genteel sumptuousness, with boutique shopping, elegant eating and literary visits to Wordsworth’s cottage. More businesslike Ambleside, with its adventure outfitters, sits at the north end of boat-rich Windermere, the busiest and biggest of the English lakes. A short, steep climb up from here through rocky knolls to Loughrigg Fell grants an eyeful of everything, with stunning views of the serpentine length of Windermere and the Langdale Pikes.

• Best spa hotels in the Lake District • Best dog-friendly hotels in the Lake District • Best things to do in the Lake District • Best hotels in the Lake District

6. Chatsworth and Haddon, Derbyshire

England’s aristocratic country houses range across a kaleidoscope of styles and periods. The Duke of Devonshire’s Chatsworth House, for example, dominating its own river valley within the Peak District , is a sumptuous, family-owned property making the most of its mainly 18th-century assets with tours, trails and events. Meanwhile, a couple of valleys away, you can step back a few centuries into 13th-century Haddon Hall, one of the most perfectly preserved medieval properties in the UK, with its banqueting hall, Tudor painted ceilings and Elizabethan walled gardens.

• Best hotels in the Peak District

7. Bath, Somerset

A place of Roman baths and Georgian crescents, Bath sits cupped in hills in its own little world, one redolent of ball gowns and gossiping aristocracy, as observed by Jane Austen. The creamy-gold Bath stone and honeycomb of Palladian-influenced terracing, rising in curving ripples up the hillsides, are what makes the city so visually appealing. Somehow a river and a canal thread through, and at the heart of the city is the original thermal bath built by the Romans around AD75, with steam still rising from the hot spring.

• Best things to do in Bath • Best hotels in Bath

8. Cotswold villages, Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire

Manor houses, babbling brooks and hamlets of honey-coloured stone. Tea-rooms galore, artisan delicatessens, ancient churches and Bibury, the village that the artist William Morris described as “the most beautiful in England”. This is the Cotswolds . Mind you, Bourton-on-the-Water must be a challenger for the “most beautiful” title, too. Here the River Windrush flows across a generous green, spanned by footbridges and surrounded by handsome inns. Weeping willows trail their tresses in the water, ducks wait for chips and there’s a toasted teacake around every corner.

• Best hotels in the Cotswolds • Best spa hotels in the Cotswolds • Best dog-friendly hotels in the Cotswolds

9. Jurassic Coast, Dorset and Devon

This Unesco-recognised stretch of southern coastline starts at the eastern end, at the quirky resort of Swanage in Dorset , where the pillars of Old Harry Rocks overlook Poole Harbour. From here it reaches westwards, rounding wild St Aldhelms Head, stomping through fossil-rich Kimmeridge, to the almost perfect circle that is Lulworth Cove and the arch of Durdle Door. Then, from Weymouth , the Chesil shingle scythes westwards towards the cliffs of Charmouth and West Bay, so famous for their crumbliness and their fossil dinosaurs. The Regency resort of Lyme Regis, beyond, is where The French Lieutenant’s Woman was filmed.

• Best hotels in Dorset • Best beach hotels in the UK • Best hotels in Devon

10. Helford and Roseland, Cornwall

You don’t travel to Cornwall for the towns — unless they’re wedged up a creek or spilling into a bay. It’s the coast that counts, either the north for the wild and dramatic, or the south for the creeks and headlands. Both sides have beaches to be proud of, but for shelter and history seek out the south’s Helford River, the setting for Daphne du Maurier’s Frenchman’s Creek . East of Helford, the Roseland Peninsula begins at the posh fishing village of St Mawes. In this part of Cornwall, the spring gardens of Trelissick and Caerhays are ablaze with magnolias and camellias well before the rest of the country.

• Best beaches in Cornwall • Cornwall versus Devon: which is better? • Best hotels in Cornwall

11. Norfolk coast, Norfolk

North Norfolk is like a watercolour painting, where land, sea and sky seem to merge seamlessly into one another. Migrating wildfowl add their stitch to the skies overhead and seal colonies loll around on sandbanks like rolls of discarded carpet. Towns such as Burnham Market, with its art galleries and fine dining, are surprisingly posh — but then maybe that shouldn’t be a surprise, given that Holkham Hall, the residence of the Earl of Leicester, and Sandringham, the royal country retreat, are just inland.

• Best dog-friendly hotels in Norfolk • The Manor Coastal Hotel & Inn, Norfolk, review

12. Wye Valley, Herefordshire

Some say British tourism started back in 1745 on the languid, calm river at Ross-on-Wye, when the local rector took paying guests out for boat trips. Today a lot of the waterborne activity has dropped southwards to Symonds Yat, a mecca for kayakers and for walking its steep forested banks. Meanwhile in Ross, the venerable half-timbered frontages of the town stand back slightly uphill of the river, and it is mostly cyclists who follow the water, particularly its loveliest stretch up past Hole-in-the-Wall, burrowing through back roads towards Hereford.

• Best luxury places to stay in Herefordshire • Best Airbnbs in the UK

13. Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

The flat fens of Cambridgeshire seem an unlikely setting for a seat of learning, but the colleges and chapels of Cambridge inhabit their own mystical world, clustered along the banks of the somnolent River Cam. Unlike Oxford, which can be brash and busy, Cambridge is a place of robed figures emerging from ancient doorways and bumping away over cobbles on bicycles. To hire a punt and to float gently down the so-called Backs (the backs of many colleges) is to get a glimpse into a refined, timeless world.

• Best hotels in Cambridge • Best things to do in Cambridge

14. Rye and Romney Marshes, Kent and East Sussex

The medieval town of Rye was once one of the Cinque Ports — five defensive ports in Kent , Sussex and Essex mentioned in Magna Carta — and it seems to have barely changed, although the sea has since retreated. The town is a lacework of galleries, patisseries, wisteria and leaded windows. It stands proud above Romney’s former marshlands, now drained and striped with wheatfields. Beyond are the glorious beaches of Camber Sands and the surreal shingle shore of Dungeness, with its unique fishing fleet.

• Best spa hotels in Sussex • Best hotels in Sussex • Best luxury hotels in Sussex

15. Test Valley, Hampshire

A maze of intersecting country lanes and the gurgling gin-clear waters of some of the most expensive fishing river in England makes this an intoxicating slice of English countryside. Stretching roughly from the village of Hurstbourne Priors down to Romsey, this is a place to spot lazy trout and idyllic waterside mansions. A place to fossick out iconic pubs like the Mayfly or the Peat Spade, and historical buildings such as the National Trust’s Mottisfont Abbey, with its celebrated rose garden. Even Waitrose is here with its Leckford Estate, with 4,000 acres of farming, fishing and water gardens.

• Best hotels in Hampshire • Best UK destinations to visit • Best beaches in England • Places in the UK that look just like France

Take me there

Inspired to visit England but yet to book your trip? Here are the best places to stay from Cottages.com and Mr and Mrs Smith .

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17 Best Places to Visit in England

England is a great place to visit, whether travelers are making their first or umpteenth trip abroad. That’s partly because the language barrier isn’t there for English speakers, though one can hear languages from throughout the world spoken here.

First-time visitors may just want to hit the highlights in England, such as Westminster Abbey or shopping at Knightsbridge in London and perhaps visit a university town or a day trip to Stonehenge.

Return visitors might opt to explore some of the other great places to visit in England which are further from London. Travelers can head south into the Cotswolds where 14th century villages will have you saying goodbye to modern conveniences. Continue to the coast to discover charming harbor towns and begin your journey down the Jurassic Coast.

Map of England

You could go north to discover the stunning valleys and rolling peaks of the Lake District. Or the city of Liverpool whose renewed waterfront and the tunes of the Beatles will take center stage in your time there.

17. Norwich

One renowned saying about Norwich still rings true; that there must be a church for every week of the year, but a pub for every day. Beer and churches go hand in hand in Norwich. You’ll see plenty of both as you explore one of England’s most intact medieval cities.

Old time streets take you by dozens of churches from over 500 years ago. Many are now museums or galleries, such as the Norwich Arts Centre. The most striking though is the Norwich Cathedral. A booming organ often rings within, but the facade and beauty of its windows will have you hooked long before.

To fuel up, head to the Norwich Market for a mix of artisanal baked goods and monstrously delicious meat sandwiches. You can burn it all off on a ride down to the coast to see the Broads, one of England’s best coastlines.

16. Dartmoor National Park

Myths and legends shroud Dartmoor National Park, making it far more than simply protected lands. In England’s southwest, Dartmoor is a captivating landscape set on the brim of ancient volcanic action.

Trails spread like roots throughout the park. These are accessible also by bicycle and horseback. Throughout you’ll stumble across centuries-old ruins, historic castles and some head-scratching stone circles.

One of the best hikes here is the Hound Tor Circular. This easy loop guides you by rugged free-standing outcrops, which have become the stuff of legend and wild ponies, before wandering through the Hound Tor medieval village.

There are ample wild camping spots in the national park. However, so much human history is here, including 20 castles. So you can expect charming towns nearby, such as Chagford.

15. Canterbury

In southern England, Canterbury is laden with sightly cathedrals, medieval alleys, lush waterfront gardens and historic walls. This is all matched by the serene riverfront, great food and even a beautiful beach.

But it’s the cathedrals that’ll take up the bulk of your exploring. It begins at the heart of the city at Canterbury Cathedral. One of the oldest in the country, it was here that the subject of King Henry II murdered Archbishop Becket in 1170. The stained windows and gothic spires still stop you in your tracks 850 years later.

With the cathedrals done, you can explore the Westgate Gardens. One of the nation’s oldest parks, it’s soaked with grandeur, with colorful flowers, the Victorian Tower House and the meandering River Stour. The latter is best explored on a punting boat.

14. St Michael’s Mount

Like a scene out of a fairy tale, St Michael’s Mount stands across the water waiting for a hero. The last bit of that sentence isn’t accurate, but you get the picture.

Crowned by a medieval castle and church, you can arrive at St Michael’s Mount via a short boat ride. At low tide, you may even be able to walk across. On the island lies the Aubyn family and a small community that keeps alive centuries of history.

Some buildings date back to the 11th century and tales of the past lie around every corner. That includes the legend of Jack the Giant Killer. Exploring the streets is riveting, as are the sub-tropical gardens that offer views back to Cornwall.

13. Liverpool

The city of Liverpool lived through the rise and fall of the 20th century. It’s come out the other side rich with the memories of the Beatles and that same cheeky character that has always made Liverpool fun.

The Liverpool skyline has been immortalized in song. But you must see it for yourself while you’re here. There are several ways to do it. One, by journeying down the Mersey, spotting its best sights along the way, including Wallasey Town Hall and the Victoria Tower.

The other is from the Royal Liver Building. In the atmospheric Pier Head, the tower has clock faces bigger than Big Ben. From the top, you can see forever.

Now that you have your bearings, go on a Beatles tour or take in one of the many great museums, from the Merseyside Maritime Museum to the International Slavery Museum. The latter diving into Liverpool’s role as a bustling port.

12. Lake District

Home to England’s largest national park, the Lake District in Cumbria has always struck visitors as hauntingly beautiful. It inspired dozens of novels in the era of Romanticism, with its rolling hills and fields being both captivating and eerie.

In the heart of the region lies the Lake District National Park. Here, depending on the time of year, you’ll find triangular ridges draped in green and granite. They fall to fields bright with wildflowers. From a viewpoint, you’ll see shimmering lakes in great numbers.

Down in the valley, Windermere sits on miles of lakefront while nearby Hawkshead is another gateway to nature but also the home of Beatrix Potter.

11. Chester

The heart of Chester can rightfully lay claim to being one of the best-looking town centers in England. Black and white timbered townhouses flank cobbled streets, dancing in between dark sandstone buildings. Then there’s the encasing of Roman walls to top it all off.

Travel here starts at the Rows, where you can find the aforementioned arcade of Victorian and Tudor buildings. This stretch showcases Chester at its height in the Middle Ages when it was one of the northwest’s most prominent port towns.

But it only gets better. The Chester Cathedral dates back to the 1100s and has maintained much of its original appeal. Then there’s the Roman Amphitheater, which is argued to be the site of Camelot and the knight’s round table.

10. Bristol

The city of Bristol, filled to the brim with creativity, is the birthplace of one of the world’s most famous modern day artists. Banksy grew up on the streets of Bristol. You can see some of his works here, as he was no doubt inspired by Bristol’s burgeoning street scene.

The colorful streets of Bristol welcome you with open arms. Nowhere is this more obvious than Stokes Croft. Artist cafes, eccentric pubs and vintage shops line the streets splashed with murals and personality.

But beyond the counter-culture is a historic harbor home to the SS Great Britain. The ship is wide open to visitors to explore much of the original design from 1856.

Bristol is set along the Avon River. This is where you can find another piece of memorable engineering, the Clifton Suspension Bridge. The design of this bridge is matched only by the stunning sight.

One of England’s most picturesque port towns, St Ives in Cornwall, is the country’s great beachfront escape. On a sunny English day (yes, they happen), the baby blue waters of St Ives glisten. The white sand leads your eyes towards the banks and the 18th century homes topped by orange roofs. It’s a place you immediately want to explore.

Kick it off with a wander of St Ives’ harbor. Brightly colored fishing boats are already back from the morning trek and now dot the shoreline. Continue past the golden sands of Porthgwidden Beach towards the Chapel of St Nicholas. The latter’s historic confines link to the smuggling of the Napoleonic Wars.

Yes, the sun’s shining. But the Atlantic Coast winds can still be bristling. Grab a traditional Cornish pasty to balance it out. Now full of energy, check out the town’s arts and culture scene at Tate and the Barbara Hepworth Museum. Finish the day off with a dip and a dinner by the sea.

8. The Cotswolds

The epitome of the English countryside, the Cotswolds are the height of romanticism. From Bath to Stratford-upon-Avon, this region is punctuated with lush landscapes, honey-colored villages and mouth-watering cuisine.

Historic cottages, a scene out of a Renaissance painting, welcome you at every turn. In front of them, landscaped gardens roll forward and are cut off only for equally pleasant canals.

You could spend a week exploring each area in great detail. But the highlights of the Cotswolds are Bibury and Stow-on-the-Wold. Charm seeps from every crevice in both these towns. They’re a treasure trove of history and evoke the mystical.

That’s never more clear than along Arlington Row in Bibury. Forget the white-picket fence. These limestone buildings from the 1300s are the stuff of societal dreams.

Beyond, let your car and the open road guide you to the best of Bath, the Westonbirt Arboretum, Blenheim Palace and the Abbey House Gardens.

Bath got its name because that’s what it was when it was founded by the Romans in 60 AD. Today it is a culturally rich city, home to Bridgerton and, of course, the famous Roman Baths. But when you look beneath the surface, you’ll discover just how much depth Bath has.

Geothermic springs spring from the underground here in Bath . The Romans were the first to tap into this natural phenomenon. It marks the start of the Bath you see today. You can discover the Roman Baths, its history and sumptuous courtyards. Balance this with a modern experience with a rooftop dip at Thermae Bath Spa.

Aside from plenty of Roman touches, you can discover eye-catching Georgian architecture in Bath. The British version of the Italian Renaissance style, you can discover the height of this at the Royal Crescent. A prominent backdrop in Bridgerton, the Crescent arches around a sprawling terrace and sightly lawn. Go further by visiting the No. 1 Royal Crescent museum.

6. Cambridge

Like Oxford below, Cambridge is a delightful mix of historic educational institutions, a rhythmic waterfront and ample medieval architecture.

Although famous for King’s and Trinity Colleges, these institutions share a slightly lower profile among travelers. Those interested will do well to take advantage of the lower crowds to explore magnificent campuses. That includes the enormous quadrangle that envelopes Trinity College and the marvelous King’s College Chapel.

The chapel is embellished with a Gothic touch and strikes a presence in Cambridge’s skyline. From the 1500s, it features some elaborate wood carvings, captivating stained glass and the world’s largest fan-vaulted ceiling.

Arguably the best way to see Cambridge, however, is to punt your way down the Cam. The water guides you by the best of medieval Cambridge and under some sightly college bridges.

You’ll have to get back on land to see some great museums, though. Be sure to add Kettle’s Yard and the Fitzwilliam Museum to the itinerary. Top it all off with a pub crawl along Mill Road for a quintessential Cambridge experience.

5. Jurassic Coast

England has no shortage of human history. But its Jurassic Coast offers a different take – one of the natural variety. A journey to discover this stunning coastline and her magical rock formations is really a journey back 185 million years.

The Jurassic Coast is England’s solitary Natural World Heritage Site. It spans 95 miles from Exmouth to Studland Bay. The ragged, rolling cliffs grow ever larger as the crashing waters, wind and rain sculpt the mix of clay and limestone. Within these sedimentary cliffs lie the fossils of dinosaurs preserved in ever-changing geologic phenomena. Charmouth is the best place to find fossil.

Beyond the cliffs, there are several spots to take a refreshing dip. You’ll get great views of the wild coast from Worbarrow Bay, Chapman’s Pool and the thrilling Dancing Ledge.

As it’s still England, there’s plenty of charm and human history. You can jump aboard the historic Seaton Tramway. Or settle in for a cozy night in the small, idyllic town of Branscombe.

Modern charm, historic universities and a tipple of medieval fun can be found in Oxford . The River Thames flows through the town, creating an abundance of waterfront splendor. This is exacerbated by canals which run busy with relaxing sunset cruises.

The University of Oxford, however, deserves to be front and center of your experience here. One of the world’s most celebrated universities, it’s a marvel to explore. Tours take you through the leafy quads on your way into iconic halls, and chapels that have welcomed students for almost 1,000 years.

Naturally, you’ll also discover world-class museums, such as the Ashmolean. Beyond the neo-classical facade is the country’s oldest public museum.

More Harry Potter fun can be had at King’s Cross Station, Divinity School and Knockturn Alley. You’ll also have the chance to explore Churchill’s birthplace at the remarkable Blenheim Palace before seeing the city from a different angle along its glistening river.

For several years in the 3rd century, the otherwise unassuming city of York was the capital of the Roman Empire. But utterly captivating neighborhoods mix with famous landmarks and a dash of Harry Potter to create one of England’s must-see cities.

Rewards lie around every corner in York, for those travelers that simply like to wander and discover. From the Romans and Vikings to the Industrial Revolution, every significant era left a piece of themselves in York. It’s as if the city was an open canvas and they filled it in.

Cobbled streets guide you by the York Minster. Here, you can walk up 275 steps by stained glass from the Medieval era to the best view in town. From the top, you’ll admire the kaleidoscope array of rooftops.

There’s no better spot to wander through than the Shambles, the inspiration for Diagon Alley. Afterwards, walk the City Walls that lead to genuine medieval bars for a well-earned pint.

2. Stonehenge & Avebury

Taking you back 5,000 years to the Neolithic period, both Stonehenge & Avebury are unforgettable sights. Both represent a deep dive into early cultures and showcase just how much time has passed. After all, we are much closer to the height of the Roman Empire than they were to the construction of the mesmerizing stone circles.

Both of these sites are under separate management. However, they’re close enough that you can explore both in a single day. Time spent here is time out in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside, shaped by thousands of years of human history. But with no written remarks, both circles lay shrouded in mystery.

It’s certainly part of the appeal. The number of annual Stonehenge visitors averages one million per year. It’s well worth braving the crowds, however, to see these crafted stones up close.

The pros of Avebury lie in just how close you can get to the stones. Aside from it being free to visit, the space lies open to visitors, allowing you to explore, touch and get as many angles for the best photos.

Exciting, historic and inspiring, London is an international city that is still oh so very British. A bustling downtown quickly spreads into adorable and colorful neighborhoods.

Both are well connected by the city’s famed Tube, an expansive subway system. This allows you to get around with ease before you consider the iconic black taxis or double-decker buses.

There’s an endless list of things to do in London . One can find themselves on the South Bank crossing a myriad of historic and modern bridges. Both lead to celebrated sites like the Big Ben, the Tower of London and even Shakespeare’s Globe. Popular markets are littered in between, providing an insightful crossroads between travelers and locals.

As the sun falls, the city lights shine on the River Thames and the bright, spinning wheel of the Eye captures your attention. But believe us, there’s much more to do. A night out on the town in Soho leads to a slow morning in Hyde Park. The nearby Buckingham Palace changes its guards to great fanfare before you choose between a litany of great shopping streets and even better museums .

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November 3, 2014 at 5:51 am

The Lake District and Stonehenge are spectacular parts of England. The English countryside is as beautiful as the cities are interesting, which makes it a great country to visit!

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28 places you should visit in England

Updated On 28th February, 2024

Planning a UK adventure and researching the best places to visit in England? Wondering where to find the most beautiful places in England?

If you’re planning on visiting England, but you aren’t sure where to go and what to add to your England bucket list, this post will take you through all the best and most beautiful places to visit in England. There are lots of  places to visit in the UK  in general, and many of these are in England.

Travellers tend to give England a hard time for its rainfall but where there’s rain, there are lush greens. The beautiful English countryside, such as that in  Yorkshire ,  the Lake District ,  Devon  and the  South Downs  will be, without a doubt, one of the highlights of your English adventure and trust me, you’ll be missing the cosy English pub scene within days of departure. The most beautiful places in England are going to blow your mind.

From the bustling cities such as  London  and  Leeds , beachside towns in  Cornwall  and  Dorset , to the many Areas of Outstanding Beauty and  national parks , England really holds its own when it comes to choosing a European holiday. England has something to offer everyone and in this post, I’m going to do my very best to tempt you into choosing it as your next destination.

Other posts you may be interested in…

• The best things to do in England
• 18 unique things to do in England
• The best places to visit in Surrey, England
• The best things to do in Cornwall, England
• The best things to do in Bournemouth, England
• The 15 UK National Parks on a map: Which should you visit?

EXPLORE ENGLAND ON MY BLOG HERE

Here are the 28 best and most beautiful places to visit in England…

1. brighton.

Wander through the lanes, take a walk along the lively seafront, enjoy some fish and chips, and then play a few games on the pier. It makes a good day trip in England because it’s just over an hour away from London, but it’s well worth spending a weekend there.

The lanes are my personal favourite. An afternoon spent meandering through the gorgeous shops and cafes is definitely worthy of a place on the best and most beautiful places in England.

See my weekend guide to Brighton here.

2. The New Forest

The Hampshire forest became a national park in 2005. Among the nature, fields, hills and valleys you will see ponies, cattle and deer. It’s one of the most beautiful places in England, especially if you like hiking and walking!

3. Cambridge

This world-famous English city is beautiful! The dazzling architecture (and there’s more than the university!) and the beautiful river give you the perfect balance of city and greenery.

See my 16 hikes in the UK that you cannot miss  here.

Cambridge’s rival, but beautiful in its own right. The university and the architecture are also stunning here, and you can also punt on the river here. Visit both and decide which you prefer for yourself!

See the best walks and hikes to go on in England  here.

Dorset is a beautiful area on the south coast of England. It’s a beautiful area to walk around, looking at wonders such as  Corfe Castle, Durdle Door  and  Hengistbury Head.  You can also hike the whole of the  Jurassic Coast  and search for fossils!  Bournemouth  is a great city for a beachy day trip, and staying in the famous beach huts should be on everyone’s England bucket list!

For  12 cool things to do in Bournemouth, read this !

For  12 day trips in Dorset, check out this post.

One of England’s most creative cities, Bristol should definitely be on your England bucket list. The birthplace of Banksy and home to the  International Balloon Fiesta , Bristol is definitely one of the coolest places to visit in England.

Another area that I love in England is Norfolk. From the historical city of  Norwich  to the beauty of the  lavender fields  and the  Norfolk Coast, The Wash  and  The Broads , Norfolk is a beautiful place to visit in the UK if you’re looking to get back to nature.

Check out my guide to Norfolk here.

8. Somerset and Wiltshire

Somerset is another region in the south of England worth visiting. I’d love to bring my van here and explore  Cheddar Gorge ,  Stonehenge and Avebury , the  dark sky reserve in Exmoor National Park,  as well as spending some time exploring the city of  Bath. 

Somerset is also home to the UK’s most famous festival,  Glastonbury,  which I’d love to attend one day!

For the ultimate  bucket list of festivals to go to, check out this post. 

Not sure what to pack for a festival? Here’s my  festival packing list!

9. Manchester

Famous for it’s football team, Manchester is definitely one of the best places to visit in England. From its music scene and nightlife to its food scene and culture, you definitely don’t want to miss out.

10. Cornwall

I actually think Cornwall might be one of my favourite areas in the UK. Scrap that, it’s my favourite. It’s the most beautiful place in England for a holiday in my eyes.

The stretches of beautiful coastline make for an amazing road trip:  check mine out here.  Highlights to build into your Cornwall road trip include  Watergate Bay, St Michael’s Mount, St Ives, Tintagel Castle  and the  Isles of Scilly.

• 10 beautiful little villages you must visit in Cornwall
• The best and most beautiful beaches to visit in Cornwall

Cornwall Google Map Legend

Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all my pins are at the touch of your fingertips.

11. Canterbury

Canterbury is another stunning area of the UK, and it’s where I held the Global Travellers’ Christmas 2019 getaway!

With a beautiful city centre, featuring an amazing cathedral and other beautiful architecture, it’s a great place for a day trip. It’s also got a beautiful river, and is full of and surrounded by green spaces and nature, so it’s a great place to head for a weekend in England and really sock up that countryside air!

12. Winchester

Did you know that Winchester used to be the capital of England? Another city famous for its history, Winchester is perfect for a day trip. It’s really easy to see most of the city in a day, and it’s easily accessible from most main towns in the south of England.

Speaking of capitals, it would just be rude to leave London off this list of places to visit in England! There’s so much to do in London. There’s the hustle and bustle of the  markets ,  walks to go on , the fantastic  brunch culture , unique  afternoon tea experiences , amazing places to go for  cocktails in the evenings … and that barely scratches the surface! You could visit London again and again and still find new things to see and do; it really is the city that keeps on giving.

See  13 reasons why you’ll fall in love with London here.

EXPLORE LONDON ON MY BLOG HERE

14. Isle of Wight

Come rain or shine, this small island just off England’s south coast is well worth visiting. The views of The Needles and the jaw-dropping Bembridge and Culver Downs are incredible, and the sandy and shingle beaches are perfect for a little lie down after a day’s exploring!

15. The Lake District

The Lake District is a must-see in England, and for good reason. Words cannot describe how beautiful this area of England is! From the serenity of  Lake Windermere  to the challenge of climbing  Scafell Pike , I think the Lake District is perhaps the best place to visit in England, if not the UK.

UK National Parks Google Map Legend

Looking for more UK inspiration?  Here are my favourite places to visit in the UK!

EXPLORE THE UK ON MY BLOG HERE

16. Northumberland

The beautiful coastline in this county stretches from the Scottish border all the way down to  Whitley Bay , a beautiful beach.  Hadrian’s Wall  is also part of Northumberland, and you can walk the Hadrian’s Wall national path which stretches from east to west, coast to coast. Other areas I’d love to explore in Northumberland are  Alnwick Castle  and  Holy Island .

17. Suffolk

Full of quaint villages, medieval towns and buckets full of countryside, Suffolk is the perfect area for an England road trip!  Check out my  road trip to Suffolk here.

EXPLORE ROAD TRIPS ON MY BLOG HERE

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

Don’t forget anything:  here’s my UK road trip checklist.

18. The Cotswolds

If the picture-perfect villages aren’t reason enough to visit in themselves, what about the cheese, cider and delicious local food? Stretching over five counties, the Cotswolds is huge (the biggest AONB) and home to loads of adventure. It’s a great place to visit in England for everyone, whether you want to snuggle up in a cottage, try mountain biking, go cheese rolling, or enjoy a leisurely countryside hike.

Here’s my complete guide to planning a UK road trip!

19. South Downs

Rolling hills that go beyond the horizon, picking your own veg for dinner and hanging out with alpacas… why wouldn’t you want to visit the South Downs?!

Check out my trip to the South Downs here.

20. Liverpool

I haven’t been to Liverpool (yet), but I’ve heard it’s amazing. With some of the most friendly people in the UK and great nightlife, you’re guaranteed to have a lot of fun! Liverpool also has a great music and culture scene that is well worth diving into.

21. Birmingham

Another big city, but another great place to visit in England! With great food, music, and architecture, as well as friendly locals, you won’t run out of things to do in Birmingham. It’s also great for shopping, and the village of Bourneville (home to  Cadbury World !) isn’t too far out the city centre either.

Devon is a really popular place to visit in the UK, but it’s easy to see why. Beautiful beaches and charming villages, and wonderful countryside to walk through. Pure bliss.

Some of the most beautiful places in England are down in Devon, including Woolacombe, Croyde (make sure you surf there), Dartmoor National Park and Salcome.

• Check out my birthday weekend in Devon here.
• A guide to exploring Dartmoor National Park, Devon
• The best things to see and do in Devon, England

Devon Google Map Legend

Durham is one of the only cities in the UK with its own coastline. There’s also the beautiful River Wear running through the city, so perfect for anyone who enjoys being near the water. There are also countless beautiful buildings in Durham, as well as lots of independent shops, historical castles and the famous Beamish Museum.

Visiting the UK in the winter? Here are  12 tips for adding adventure into your UK winter trip.

25. Newcastle upon Tyne

Friendly locals, a bustling Quayside and fantastic history and culture are just a few of the things on offer in Newcastle. I’d love to go and see the puffins on the nearby Farne Islands!

26. The Peak District

The Peak District is in central England, not far from  Leeds , Liverpool or Nottingham. With beautiful hiking trails, quaint villages, stunning canals and rolling hills… the Peak District is yet another place to visit in England that really has it all! The highlight of my trip was rock climbing at Lawrence Field.

Check out my weekend in the Peak District here.

27. Yorkshire

Yorkshire is a great place to visit in England because of the sheer variety of things to do in the area! You could go on a night out in  Leeds  (check out  the best things to do in Leeds here ) , enjoy a Turkish bath in  Harrogate , watch a gig in  Sheffield , marvel at  York  cathedral, or even head to the  Yorkshire Dales  and take on the  Three Peaks challenge !

I’d also love to explore  Robin Hood’s Bay ,  Castle Howard  and  Whitby .

The Yorkshire Dales are just gorgeous. Up there at the top of the most beautiful places in England.

28. Warwick

This medieval town is famous for its castle, but when you visit, don’t forget to explore the markets, tea rooms and parks too! If you’re lucky, you might time your visit with one of the many local events that happen regularly in Warwick, such as the  Folk festival  or  Literary festival.

Join 7,000+ other like-minded Global Travellers in the Facebook family  here  today!

See my top tips for planning and researching your next adventure  here.

Where are your favourite places to visit in England?

In your opinion where are the most beautiful places in England? I’d love to know!

Love as always and happy adventuring,

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in England

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Feb 21, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

A former resident of the UK and now a frequent visitor, Author Bryan Dearsley spent eight weeks touring England in the summer of 2022 while on assignment for Planetware .

One of the most popular travel destinations in the world , England offers almost endless possibilities for vacationers seeking things to do and top attractions to visit.

Part of the beautiful British Isles, this small but influential country bursts with fascinating history, exciting cities, and rich cultural traditions. Historic sites are at every turn, from prehistoric megaliths and ancient Roman sites to centuries-old castles and town centers dating back to the Middle Ages .

England is also extremely easy to get around, with its most popular tourist destinations well connected by trains and buses. Alternatively, you can drive between points of interest on a well-planned system of motorways. Whether you choose to tour the country by car or public transport, you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

To help you get the most out of your travel itinerary, be sure to use our list of the best places to visit in England.

1. Stonehenge, Wiltshire

2. tower of london, city of london, 3. the roman baths and georgian city of bath, somerset, 4. the british museum, bloomsbury, london, 5. york minster and historic yorkshire, 6. windsor castle, berkshire, 7. chester zoo, cheshire, 8. lake district national park, cumbria, 9. canterbury cathedral, kent, 10. liverpool & the beatles, merseyside, 11. eden project, cornwall, 12. the cotswolds, 13. the national gallery, city of westminster, london, 14. warwick castle, warwickshire, 15. tate modern, southwark, london, 16. royal museums greenwich, london.

Stonehenge , 10 miles north of the historic city of Salisbury on Salisbury Plain, is Europe's best-known prehistoric monument. It's so popular that visitors need to purchase a timed ticket in advance to guarantee entry.

Exhibitions at the excellent Stonehenge Visitor Centre set the stage for a visit. Here, you'll find displays explaining through audio-visual experiences and more than 250 ancient objects how the megaliths were erected between 3000 and 1500 BCE. They also offer fascinating insights and information about life during this time.

After walking around the various viewing points adjacent to these enormous stones, visit the authentic replicas of Neolithic Houses to see the tools and implements of everyday Neolithic life. A highlight is watching staff, and volunteers provide demonstrations of traditional skills from 4,500 years ago.

Although you can no longer go inside the circle to wander among the stones during normal opening hours, you can reserve special early morning or late evening access into the circle through English Heritage, which manages the site.

• Read More: From London to Stonehenge: Best Ways to Get There

Prison, palace, treasure vault, observatory, and menagerie: the Tower of London has done it all and it's one of the top attractions in London . Widely considered the most important building in England, there's enough to see and do at this World Heritage Site to keep visitors busy for hours.

The centerpiece of this Thames-side fortress is the White Tower . Built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, it's home to amazing exhibits, such as Line of Kings. The world's oldest visitor attraction , the collection was established in 1652 with a remarkable display of royal armor.

Other highlights include the impressive Crown Jewels exhibition, classic Yeoman Warder Tours, the Royal Mint, and exhibits and displays regarding prisoners and executions. All told, the Tower of London covers some 18 acres, so there's a great deal of exploring to do.

If you're traveling with children, be sure to check for special events for kids. These include a fun "Knights School" and other immersive programs that provide a fun insight into the castle's history.

• Read More: Visiting the Tower of London: Top Attractions, Tips & Tours

If you only have time to visit one of the nicest small cities in England , you couldn't do much better than Bath. This remarkably beautiful city in Somerset boasts more fantastic tourist attractions than you could hope to visit in a day.

While most famous for the magnificent 2,000-year-old Roman Baths built around the city's rejuvenating hot springs, it's equally well known for its honey-colored Georgian Townhouses , such as those located on Royal Crescent. One of them, #1 Royal Crescent, is open to the public and offers a fascinating look at life in Bath during the Georgian period. Some 500 of the city's buildings are considered of historical or architectural importance, a fact that has resulted in the entire city being granted World Heritage status.

Among the most interesting to visit today are the Holborne Museum with its large collections of artworks, silver, and period furniture; the famous Assembly Rooms, star of countless period dramas on TV and home to the interesting Fashion Museum ; and the Jane Austen Centre and its neighbor Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein, which tell the stories of two of Bath's most famous residents.

Bath also makes an ideal location from which to explore some of England's most stunning countryside, including the Avon Valley, the Mendip Hills, the Cotswolds, and countless other fantastic Somerset landmarks.

With collections of antiquities that are among the world's finest, a visit to the British Museum is undoubtedly one of the top free things to do in London . This superb museum holds more than 13 million artifacts from Assyria, Babylonia, Egypt, Greece, the Roman Empire, China, and Europe. The most famous ancient artifacts are the Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon in Athens, as well as the famous Rosetta Stone .

But there are many other outstanding pieces on show here that help make this one of the best places to visit in London. The Ancient Egyptian collection is the largest outside of Cairo, and the hoard of Roman silver dating from the fourth century known as the Mildenhall Treasure, unearthed in Suffolk in 1942, is nothing short of spectacular.

If you've got time, be sure to look into joining a guided tour or participate in a workshop or lecture. Fun private after-hour tours are also available. Dining and shopping opportunities are also located on-site.

Address: Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London, England

Official site: www.britishmuseum.org

Magnificent York Minster is second in importance in the Church of England only to the cathedral at Canterbury. It stands in the center of the historic city of York, surrounded by half-timbered homes and shops, medieval guildhalls, and churches.

In turn, York's romantic streets are surrounded by three miles of magnificent town walls that you can walk atop for spectacular views over the city and its surroundings. While here, visit the National Railway Museum , one of England's most visited tourist attractions.

York is also a good base from which to explore northeast England, in particular the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. Elsewhere in this corner of the country, you'll find some of England's most beautiful historic towns and cities, including Durham , famous for its castle and cathedral, and Beverley , which also boasts an attractive minster.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England

England is a country that's deeply rooted in tradition, history, pageantry, and pomp. Little surprise, then, that some of the biggest draws for tourists here revolve around the Royal Family, who have played an important role in shaping the country, along with many other parts of the world, for centuries.

If you've only got time to squeeze in one royal attraction, make it Windsor Castle. An easy 40-minute train ride from Central London, Windsor Castle is famous as one of the Royal Family's official residences, and throws its doors open to visitors regularly when the King is away.

And it's rich in history, able to trace its roots all the way back to the 11th century, when a triumphant William the Conqueror had a fortress erected on this very spot. Highlights of a visit to Windsor Castle include the castle's chapel, the State Apartments, as well as the magnificent Queen's Gallery.

And bring your walking shoes. The grounds are huge, stretching for some six miles around the castle and providing some of the best selfie opportunities anywhere with this historic building as a backdrop.

Address: Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire, England

Located in Upton in Cheshire, just over a mile north of Chester city center, Chester Zoo is England's most visited attraction outside of London and is one of the best places to visit in England for families.

The more than 11,000 animals living in this 125-acre site represent about 400 different species. But the zoo's appeal reaches beyond just animal lovers, with prizewinning landscaped gardens also available for visitors to enjoy.

You can tour these extensive grounds on the zoo's monorail system to reach highlights that include Chimpanzee Island, a penguin pool, and Europe's largest tropical house. There's plenty of other fun things to do at Chester Zoo, too, so expect to easily spend a day enjoying this top-rated tourist attraction.

While in Chester, take time to walk its old city walls , the best preserved of their kind in Britain. You should also spend time exploring Chester's other distinctive feature: its galleried walkways . Known as the "Chester' Rows," these impressive medieval architectural gems run the full length of stone and half-timbered buildings dating from the 14th century, and make for a unique and picturesque setting.

Chester Cathedral is also worth exploring if you can squeeze it into your travel itinerary. So, too, are Lower Bridge Street and Watergate Street, both of them home to numerous picturesque old buildings.

Address: Cedar House, Caughall Road, Chester, Cheshire, England

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chester

Covering some 900 square miles, Lake District National Park is a must-visit destination for travelers to England. With 12 of the country's largest lakes and more than 2,000 miles of rights of way waiting to be explored, there's little wonder the region continues to inspire, with its magnificent views and scenery straight out of a painting.

Other things to do include visiting the park's many fells, including Scafell Pike which at 3,210 feet is the highest mountain in England. Be sure to also spend time exploring some of the lovely little towns and villages dotted throughout the region, such as Grasmere.

Better still, hop aboard a tour boat excursion across Lake Windermere and Ullswater, and you'll be rewarded with some of the best scenery anywhere in the country.

Address: Murley Moss, Oxenholme Road, Kendal, Cumbria, England

Located in the heart of the historic city that bears its name, Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is home to the Archbishop of Canterbury and is the cradle of English Christianity.

It all started when St. Augustine converted the pagan Anglo Saxons here in 597 when he became the first bishop. Excellent guided tours of the cathedral are available, and for a truly memorable experience, consider booking an overnight stay in the grounds at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge .

But there's much more to this beautiful medieval city than just its cathedral. Canterbury is also a popular cultural and entertainment destination with great shopping, galleries, and cafés, as well as attractions such as those focused on Chaucer's medieval England and the city's Roman past.

Some of the other best places to visit in Canterbury include the Old City, the ruins of St. Augustine's Abbey, and medieval Beaney House.

Address: 11 The Precincts, Canterbury, Kent, England

• Read More: Murder & Majesty: Top Highlights of Canterbury Cathedral

As English as an afternoon tea, references to The Beatles are everywhere in Liverpool. Located in the northwest of the country, Liverpool is around three hours from London by rail and offers music fans plenty of opportunities to soak up some city sites , along with Fab-Four-related attractions.

Topping your list should be The Beatles Story. Located in the revitalized Albert Dock area of the city, this fun museum features enough facts and exhibits to keep the biggest fans busy for hours. Other related points of interest in Liverpool include visiting the famous Cavern Club, along with the real places about which they sang, including Strawberry Fields and Penny Lane.

Other must-dos include themed walks and guided tours, visiting the former homes of Paul McCartney and John Lennon, and getting in some souvenir shopping at The Beatles Shop, located just steps away from the Cavern Club.

The incredible Eden Project is a collection of unique artificial biomes containing an amazing collection of plants from around the world.

Located in a reclaimed quarry in Cornwall, this spectacular botanical gardens complex consists of huge domes that look rather like massive igloo-shaped greenhouses. Each of these impressive (and futuristic-looking) buildings houses thousands of different plant species in tropical and Mediterranean environments.

As well as these stunning displays of plant life, the Eden Project hosts numerous arts and music events year-round. If you're able to extend your visit, consider booking a stay at the on-site hostel, or enjoy a meal in one of its restaurants. Adventure activities such as ziplining and giant swings are also available.

Address: Bodelva, Par, Cornwall, England

The Cotswolds cover some 787 square miles and encompass parts of some of England's prettiest counties: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Somerset, Worcestershire, and Warwickshire. And all of it begs to be explored.

Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty due to its rare limestone grassland habitats and old-growth beech woodlands, the beauty of the Cotswolds has much to do with its quaint villages and towns , such as Castle Combe, Chipping Norton, and Tetbury.

Like so much of England, the Cotswolds is perfect to discover on foot. One of the best routes is along the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile footpath with spectacular views of the Severn Valley and the Vale of Evesham. This route runs the length of the Cotswolds, and can be picked up pretty much anywhere you visit.

Displaying one of the most comprehensive collections of paintings in the world, the National Gallery is London's second-most visited museum. The collections, which present an almost complete cross-section of European painting from 1260 until 1920 , are especially strong in the Dutch Masters and the Italian Schools of the 15th and 16th centuries.

In the Italian galleries, look for works by Fra Angelico, Giotto, Bellini, Botticelli, Correggio, Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese. It's also where you'll find Leonardo da Vinci's Madonna and Child with St. Anne and John the Baptist , Raphael's The Crucifixion , and The Entombment by Michelangelo.

In the German and Dutch galleries are works by Dürer, van Dyck, Frans Hals, Vermeer, and Rembrandt. Among artists from the 18th century through 1920, standout works are by Hogarth, Reynolds, Sargent, Gainsborough, Constable, and Turner. French works include those by Ingres, Delacroix, Daumier, Monet (including The Water-Lily Pond ), Manet, Degas, Renoir, and Cezanne.

With no-cost admission, a visit to the National Gallery is one of the top things to do in London for free. Guided tours and lunchtime lectures are also available for free and are highly recommended.

Address: Trafalgar Square, City of Westminster, London, England

If you're looking for a truly memorable English excursion for the whole family, and one that offers a fascinating insight into life in medieval times, you couldn't do much better than visit Warwick Castle.

Located in the beautiful city of Warwick on the River Avon, this impressive fortress has dominated the landscape and history of the region for more than 900 years. Today, it serves as a backdrop to medieval-themed events and reenactments, from jousting festivals to fairs and concerts.

Warwick is also great base from which to explore the Cotswolds, as well as nearby towns such as Stratford-upon-Avon , famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Bigger city destinations, including Liverpool , hometown of The Beatles, as well as Birmingham and Coventry , are an easy drive away.

Address: Stratford Road / West Street, Warwick, Warwickshire, England

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Warwick, England

When the Tate Modern opened its new 10-storey extension in June 2016, adding 60 percent more gallery space, visitor numbers jumped by almost one-fourth, making it one of England's most visited attractions.

Now regarded as among the world's best and certainly one of the largest, museums of modern and contemporary art, the Tate Modern shows a wide range of artistic expression, including paintings, works on paper, sculpture, films, performances, installations, and other forms of artistic expression.

Among the well-known artists represented here are Picasso, Rothko, Dali, Matisse, and Modigliani. Be sure to go to the viewing level for 360-degree views of the London skyline and the River Thames far below.

Other galleries under the Tate umbrella that you should consider visiting in England include Tate Britain (also in London), Tate Liverpool , and Tate St. Ives in Cornwall.

Address: Bankside, Southwark, London

Official site: www.tate.org.uk

Downstream from Tower Bridge, Greenwich is the London base of the Royal Navy and holds England's largest expanses of preserved historic architecture and parks. And although lovers of things maritime will certainly gravitate to Greenwich, there's a lot more there than just ships and boats here.

The highlight for most visitors is the Cutty Sark , the last surviving of the 19th-century clippers from the lucrative tea trade between Britain and China. Built in 1869, the Cutty Sark was one of the finest and fastest ships of its day, and you can board it to explore the clipper, from its figure head to the sailors' quarters below decks. For a special treat, book an afternoon tea overlooking the ship.

At the Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre , exhibits showcase more than 500 years of maritime history. In Queen's House , the National Maritime Museum is the largest of its kind in the world, featuring the Royal Navy from Tudor times to the Napoleonic Wars.

Greenwich Park , dating from the 15th century and the oldest of London's eight Royal Parks, is filled with beautiful gardens and walking paths, and here you'll find the Old Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian Line , marked by a steel rod in the floor of the Meridian Building. This is the zero meridian of longitude, dividing the world into eastern and western halves; you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere.

If you're hungry, add a great English breakfast from Heap's Sausage Cafe to your list of things to do in Greenwich.

Address: King William Walk, Greenwich, London, England

Official site: www.rmg.co.uk

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in London's Greenwich & Docklands Districts

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Plan a City Fix: After touring the best places to visit in London, you may want to see more of England's great cities. The largest of these, including Manchester , Liverpool , Birmingham , and Bristol , are all easy to reach by train. From the latter, you can easily nip over into wonderful Wales to visit its lively capital of Cardiff .

Beyond Borders: If you're visiting the popular attractions in Chester , cross into North Wales and perhaps on to Snowdonia National Park . North of England is Bonnie Scotland, with its glorious highlands and art-rich cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh . With the "Chunnel" speeding up crossing the English Channel by the EuroStar, you can be in the French capital of Paris in only 2.5 hours.

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48 Best Places to Visit in the UK

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Rich in heritage and history, the United Kingdom has many bustling modern cities and ancient sleepy villages to visit — but where to begin?

Discover many urban destinations in the country which all have their own unique identities and charm.

Whether you visit cosmopolitan London , historic Edinburgh, industrial Birmingham or cultural Stratford-upon-Avon, you can find plenty of authentic and fascinating things to see and do.

Ancient places such as Stonehenge, York and Bath are some of the best places to visit in the UK for history lovers and will not disappoint. The famous college towns of Oxford and Cambridge are rich in history and elegant architecture.

There are also plenty of awe-inspiring natural spaces such as the Cotswolds, Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, as well as the wild coasts of Cornwall and the Shetland Islands.

The UK boasts a number of family-friendly attractions and theme parks , including Alton towers and LEGOLAND Windsor, as well as the Harry Potter Studios at Warner Bros London and Warwick Castle.

Here are some destinations to get you excited for your next UK trip!

1 – Liverpool

One of the UK’s largest cities and a hub of arts and culture , Liverpool is known the world over as the hometown of The Beatles.

It wouldn’t be a complete visit to the city without seeing The Beatles Story Museum or the legendary Cavern Club where the band played its earliest concerts. There is also the famous statue of the Fab Four at Pier Head and many more Beatles landmarks dotted around the city.

Visitors can also see an art exhibition at the world-class Tate Liverpool museum or enjoy a shopping trip in the independent stores of Bold Street .

Ride the famous “Ferry cross the Mersey” or check out a Liverpool F.C. football game at Anfield Stadium. Liverpool might just be your new favorite city!

See also: Fun Things to Do in Liverpool

2 – Edinburgh

The historic capital of Scotland , Edinburgh is an atmospheric city with a medieval core and dramatic scenery.

Tour the impressive Edinburgh Castle which looms high over the city or explore the Royal Mile through the heart of the city’s Old Town.

Climb up through Holyrood Park to visit the ancient volcano known as Arthur’s Seat or explore the centuries-old Botanical Gardens and their Victorian glasshouses.

Witnessing the Military Tattoo marching band show is a popular thing to do in the city as is taking a guided tour of the underground vaults and passageways that spread beneath the streets.

There’s a lot to see and do in Edinburgh, one of the UK’s most enchanting cities.

See also: Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh

3 – London

The United Kingdom’s capital city and seat of the country’s parliament and monarchy for over 800 years, London is one of the world’s top tourist destinations.

The long list of must-see sights and best tourist attractions in London include Buckingham Palace — home to Queen Elizabeth II , The London Eye observation wheel and Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.

Check out some of the amazing free and best museums in London such as The British Museum, Tate Britain and Tate Modern and the Royal Observatory.

Explore the many royal parks and gardens such as Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park and see the famous castle prison, the Tower of London .

Visitors can find some of the world’s best museums, galleries and historic palaces right here in the city of London.

See also: Fun Things to Do in London

4 – Oxford

World-famous for its illustrious university, Oxford has charm by the barrel and features leafy avenues, a bustling city center and tons of history to discover.

The first stop on a visit to the city should be Oxford University — which is often ranked as the top university in the world . Tour the hallowed halls of this renowned institution which was established in 1096 — making it the world’s second-oldest still operating university .

Explore the UK’s oldest Botanical Garden and its surrounding woodland of 130 acres or visit The Ashmolean, the country’s first public museum to see its collection of esteemed artworks.

Take a ride down the city’s famous canals on a punt or discover the treasures of the Pitt Rivers Museum. Oxford is overflowing with captivating attractions.

See also: Fun Things to Do in Oxford

5 – Harry Potter Studio

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London takes visitors inside the magic of the Harry Potter movies .

Visit famous locations and sets from the movies, including the Great Hall of Hogwart’s, Diagon Alley and the Forbidden Forest. Visit Platform 9 3/4 and see the famous Hogwart’s Express.

Glimpse the detailed model of Hogwarts School — which was used for exterior shots of the building, and see artifacts, props and clothing worn in the making of the movies.

Go behind the scenes to the studio’s Special FX and Art departments to see how the amazing creatures and action sequences were brought to life. This is a must-see for Harry Potter fans.

• Harry Potter Studio tickets

Sold out? Read about Harry Potter Studio last-minute tickets .

6 – Stonehenge

The mysterious history of Stonehenge is only part of what makes it so fascinating.

The famous stone circle was constructed around 2,500 B.C. and its surroundings are particularly rich in archaeological history and sites , some of which may date back as far as 8,000 B.C .

The smaller bluestones, which weigh between two to five tons each, were transported over 180 miles from quarries in Wales using prehistoric technology.

There are many legends that surround the site and its use. Many historians believe it functioned as an ancient form of the calendar , as well as a meeting place for religious ceremonies.

Discover the ancient secrets of Stonehenge for yourself — one of the most famous prehistoric monuments in the world and one of the best places to visit in the UK for history lovers.

• Stonehenge tours from London

7 – Windsor

The Borough of Windsor is most famous for Windsor Castle , the preferred weekend residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

The castle is the world’s largest and oldest inhabited castle and has been home to the country’s royalty for 1,000 years. Visitors can take a tour of the castle to see its staterooms and the fabulous St. George’s Chapel which is over 500 years old.

Other popular attractions in and around Windsor include The town of Eton , famous for its prestigious college, The Windsor Guildhall which was designed by Christopher Wren, and the historic Windsor Great Park which covers nearly 5,000 acres.

The very royal borough of Windsor offers tranquil towns and villages just a short step from the bustling center of London.

• Windsor Castle day trips from London

8 – Brighton

The seaside resort of Brighton has long been a weekend getaway for Londoners in search of fresh air and sea breeze.

The Royal Pavillion is one of the most mesmerizing Brighton attractions. This luxurious royal palace with eastern-influenced architecture was built in the 1820s as a coastal getaway for King George IV. Visitors can tour the palace as well as the museum and grounds.

There is a lot to see in this attraction-packed city too. Take a stroll along Brighton Pier for classic rides and amusements, or browse the hip independent shops and cafes of The Lanes.

Grab fantastic vies from the British Airways i360 observation tower or take a seafront trip on The Volk’s Electric Railway for a vintage British seaside experience. Brighton is a whole lot of fun!

See also: Fun Things to do in Brighton

9 – Yorkshire Dales

The green and unspoiled hills of the Yorkshire Dales hold many hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered.

The spectacular waterfalls of Aysgarth, Hardraw Force and Linton draw visitors from miles around. The rocky scenery of Malham Cove is popular with walkers and the dramatic ravine of Gordale Scar apparently was an inspiration for J.R.R Tolkien when writing “The Lord of the Rings.”

There are lots of great towns and villages to explore in the Dales, including Richmond, Hawes and Malham, and many great country pubs to grab lunch and a drink in.

Explore the underground cave systems that run throughout the park and see the miles of drystone walls that give the region its iconic look. The impressive Ribblehead Viaduct has appeared in many movies and television series , most famously in the “Harry Potter” movies.

10 – Bath

Steeped in ancient history, the Roman town of Bath is brimming with great cultural institutions , shopping opportunities and Classically-inspired architecture .

The famous Roman Baths , from which the city gets its name, are one of the highlights. Visitors can learn more about them through engaging exhibits and CGI reconstructions .

Why not take advantage of the city’s mineral-rich spring water with a soak at Thermae Bath Spa ?

Visit The Jane Austen Center to discover more about the popular writer or step back in time as you stroll along the 18th century Pulteney Bridge with its varied shops and boutiques.

There is a diverse selection of museums to explore in the city too. Art lovers should check out the Holburne Museum and Victoria Art Gallery and history fans can discover Georgian-era life at No.1 Royal Crescent . The Fashion Museum displays stylish clothing items from the 17th-century to the present day.

11 – Dartmoor

Devon’s green and unspoiled national park , Dartmoor is one of the best places to visit in the UK for nature lovers.

Keep your eyes peeled for the wild Dartmoor ponies which are an attractive sight to see on your exploration of the park. Meet the animals at Dartmoor Zoo or explore the Iron Age site at Grimspound .

Discover the historic ruins of Okehampton Castle or climb the high rope courses at the gorgeous River Dart Country Park.

The Buckfast Butterfly Farm and Otter Sanctuary is a great place to visit with kids and the impressive gothic architecture of Buckfast Abbey is a must-see when visiting the area.

12 – Cotswolds

The picturesque limestone villages of the Cotswolds are an idyllic place to explore and a quintessentially English experience.

One of the most popular things to do in the Cotswolds is to take a guided tour or to explore the area by car to see all the charming villages.

Adventurous visitors can hike the Cotswold Way, a nearly 100-mile path through some of the country’s most attractive villages.

Gloucester and Cirencester are some of the larger places to visit with attractions such as Gloucester Cathedral and the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Steam Railway .

There are a number of stunning gardens to visit such as the Batsford and Westonbirt Arboretums, and the grounds of Highgrove House, which is home to Prince Charles .

13 – York

The ancient walled city of York is one of the UK’s most popular northern destinations. It was founded by the Romans in the year 71 A.D. and has some fine historical attractions.

Visitors can brush up on the city’s Viking history at the Jorvik Centre or explore the Medieval lanes of The Shambles — allegedly the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter movies.

Discover the impressive and historic York Minster which dates back to the 13th century and the city’s more recent history at York Castle Museum.

Delve into the city’s grisly past at The York Dungeon or take a spooky guided tour of the city to unearth the shadowy characters that have called York home.

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in York

14 – Cardiff

The Welsh Capital is famous for its attractive surrounding landscapes and its plentiful historic castles and houses .

St Fagan’s National Museum of History takes us back in time to the Celtic era . Discover old-fashioned roundhouses , ancient skills and how the people of the region lived in years gone by.

Cardiff Castle is a must-see on a trip to the city along with almost fairytale Castle Coch. Explore the National Museum of Cardiff to discover its collection of artworks, decorative arts and natural history — and grab some fresh air on a visit to the delightful Roath and Bute parks .

Sports fans should check out the Principality Stadium for the best in Welsh Rugby action or check out a show at the Wales Millenium Center.

15 – Lake District

The Lake District is considered to be one of the UK’s most picturesque landscapes and has been inspiring artists and writers for centuries.

If your time is limited, take a private tour of the countryside to see a lot of the Lakes’ highlights in a short time. Outdoors people can explore the many pathways and hills or take an adventure tour through the hills and valleys.

Popular hiking locations include the Old Man of Coniston, Helvellyn and Loughrigg Fell which are achievable for most people.

Visit the popular towns of Windermere, Keswick and Penrith and tour the sites that enchanted Beatrix Potter while writing her famous children’s books .

You are sure to want to return to the Lake District again and again.

16 – Manchester

Bustling Manchester is a hive of activity and there’s a lot to see and do. It is North England’s largest city and is packed with busy shopping streets, markets, museums and galleries.

Visiting the famous Etihad and Old Trafford Stadiums — the respective homes of football teams Manchester City and Manchester United , are always popular with sports fans.

Explore the Science and Industry Museum to discover why Manchester is known as the “first industrial City” and visit the magnificent Neo-Gothic John Rylands Library .

See natural history exhibits at the Manchester Museum or glimpse stunning artworks at the Manchester Art Gallery.

Manchester is world-renowned for its musical legacy. Join a tour of the city to learn about some of its most legendary acts , including Joy Division, The Smiths and Oasis.

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Manchester

17 – Glasgow

Lying along the banks of the River Clyde, Glasgow has a lot of cultural and architectural delights to explore.

Discover the attractive Victorian-era platforms of Glasgow Central Station or check out the Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel to discover the past and future of vehicles in the city.

Take a tour of Glasgow Cathedral and its centuries-old Necropolis and check out the beautiful architecture of George Square, which has statues of the poets Robert Burns and Thomas Campbell.

On an evening, explore the lively West End with its bars, restaurants and live music venues or catch a performance at The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.

Historic Glasgow is just waiting to be explored!

See also: Fun Things to Do in Glasgow

18 – Belfast

Northern Ireland’s capital and its largest city, Belfast is a historic east coast port and industrial center.

The infamous Titanic was constructed in Belfast in 1909 and the city has a museum to the ill-fated ship. Titanic Belfast allows visitors to explore the ship with innovative exhibits such as rides, special FX and immersive reconstructions.

There are more historic ships to visit in the city too, including HMS Caroline and the SS Nomadic .

Discover the artworks of the Peace Wall which documents “The Troubles” in Northern Ireland or visit the notorious Crumlin Road Gaol which housed political prisoners.

Take a shopping spree at the Victorian-era St George’s Market or explore the city’s creative hub, the Cathedral Quarter . The old-fashioned Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful respite from the bustling city center.

See also: Fun Things to Do in Belfast

19 – Cambridge

The historic university town of Cambridge has been home to many of the country’s greatest scholars. It has a wealth of Classical architecture and charm and is one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations.

The University of Cambridge is one of the must-see places on a trip to the city. Grab a guided tour of one of its famous colleges such as King’s College or St. John’s to discover the 800-year history of the University .

Take a journey down the river in one of the town’s famous gondola-style “punts” and pick up some history on the way.

Explore the historic town center, including Market Square and discover fascinating world history and artifacts at the Fitzwilliam Museum .

There are many architectural wonders to discover in Cambridge, making it a stunning place to visit at any time of the year.

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Cambridge

20 – Isle of Wight

For adventure lovers and those who love to be in the great outdoors, the Isle of Wight is a fantastic destination.

The famous Needles rock formations are explorable by boat tour or kayak and the miles of coastline offer everything from fossil hunting at Compton Bay to surf spots at Freshwater Bay.

Explore Osborne House, the favorite home of Queen Victoria and walk the picturesque Coastal Footpath between the towns of Sandown and Shanklin .

There are plenty of family-friendly attractions to enjoy too such as Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Monkey Haven and the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary and the spectacular Shanklin Chine gorge and gardens.

21 – Alton Towers

One of the UK’s most thrilling and adventure-packed theme park resorts, Alton Towers offers tons of fun for the whole family.

The largest theme park in England , Alton Towers covers 500 acres in the Staffordshire countryside and is home to some of the world’s most extreme roller coasters .

Some of the park’s most exhilarating rides include Nemesis, Wicker Man and The Smiler — the first 14-loop roller coaster in the world .

Little ones need not miss out either as the park’s CBeebies Land is designed specifically with them in mind, and features gentle rides and play areas for them to discover.

The resort also has some excellent accommodation options , including Alton Towers Hotel, Luxury Treehouses and Stargazing Pods that are sure to make your stay in the park a memorable and happy one.

22 – Birmingham

The UK’s second-largest city after London, Birmingham is packed full of cultural venues, museums and historic locations to check out.

During the industrial era, the city was one of the most prosperous in the country. Take a trip back in time to some of its best historic locations, including the infamous Back to Back housing, Coffin Works and the Museum of the Jewelry Quarter to discover its most lucrative trades .

See an impressive collection of world history artifacts at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery or visit the National Motorcycle Museum to learn how British bikes — many of which were built here in Birmingham — conquered the world.

Visit the Birmingham Symphony Hall and Hippodrome to witness world-class theatrical and musical performances or check out the Library of Birmingham’s impressive collection of Shakespearean artifacts.

See also: Fun Things to Do in Birmingham, UK

23 – Scottish Highlands

For adventure lovers in search of the wildest reaches of the UK, The Scottish Highlands does not disappoint.

The area begins north of the city of Glasgow and includes almost 10,000 square miles of moody mountains, deep lochs and heather-strewn glens, as well as the occasional town or village.

One of the most thrilling ways to explore the Highlands is via the West Coast Railways Jacobite Steam Train, but it is equally stunning by bus or private car.

Some of its most popular locations are Ben Nevis, the UK’s largest mountain and the famous Loch Ness . The landscape here is popular with adventure sports lovers, especially the secluded town of Fort William.

Other popular towns to visit include the ancient city of Inverness , wild and picturesque Aviemore and the Glencoe Mountain Resort near the village of Ballachulish.

See also: Fun things to do in Inverness, Scotland

24 – Norwich

The attractive and leafy city of Norwich is a popular destination for travelers and boasts lively art and cultural scene .

Most famous for the Romanesque Norwich Cathedral which dates back to 1096 , Norwich has many other historic buildings and locations to explore.

The attractive Fenbrigg Hall is well worth visiting and Norwich Castle hosts a collection of artistic and antique treasures. The Elm Hill area of the city has some wonderful surviving examples of Tudor houses and quaint alleys to discover.

Norwich is a short journey to the picturesque Norfolk Broads, but also has many fine parks inside the city such as Plantation Garden, East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden and Eaton Park.

25 – Giant’s Causeway

The unique rock formations of Northern Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway have been the source of numerous legends over the centuries.

The most popular one tells of the giant, Finn McCool who threw the rocks into the sea to make a crossing to Scotland.

The unusual rock formations, which include almost 40,000 narrow columns look so neat as to appear man-made.

The Giant’s Causeway has appeared in a number of movies and television series, including Dracula Untold and Hellboy II: The Golden Army and as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

This unique geological feature is one of Northern Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions.

• Giant’s Causeway day trips from Dublin

Read more: Most Beautiful Places in Europe , Game of Thrones Tours from Dublin

26 – Chessington World of Adventures Resort

One of the best places to visit in the UK for families with older kids, Chessington World of Adventure has over 40 rides and attractions .

The park also has the Zoo and Sea Life center which is home to over 1,000 creatures, such as lions, penguins and gorillas. Visitors can come face-to-face with penguins , capybaras, giraffes and a whole host of exotic creatures.

The park also has thrilling rides and almost a dozen exotic-themed lands to discover. Take on the dizzying heights of the Croc Drop or face the wrath of the Dragon’s Fury .

Chessington also has a lot of great shows and entertainment, and seasonal events to enjoy.

27 – Hadrian’s Wall

During the Roman occupation of Britain, Emperor Hadrian ordered a defensive wall to keep the problematic northern tribes out of Roman Britain.

The remains of the wall, which spanned the whole width of the country — almost 73 miles, are still visible in places. Visit sites of numerous Roman fortifications , including Housesteads, Chesters and Birdsowald.

The Roman Army Museum in Hexham gives an interesting depiction of life in Roman Britain for the empire’s soldiers as well as artifacts excavated along the length of the wall.

Explore many sections of the wall and other bits of ancient fortifications across the country such as Walltown Crags, Vindolanda, Milecast 48 and Cawfield’s Roman Wall .

28 – Cornwall

One of the UK’s favorite holiday destinations, Cornwall is rich in Celtic history and has a stunning landscape of rugged cliffs, beautiful fishing villages and wide open moorlands.

A popular UK surf destination , Cornwall takes pride in its beaches like Fistral, Gwithian and Praa Sands, creating over 6-foot waves on a good day.

Visitors return to this area for its many postcard-worthy towns and fishing ports to name, but Falmouth, St Ives, St Austell, Bude and Fowey are all must-see destinations.

Some stunning historical ruins and castles to visit include Pendennis Castle, Tintagel Castle, the supposed home of King Arthur , and the beautiful Minack Theatre which is one of the UK’s most stunning outdoor concert venues.

Cornwall is definitely one of the most enchanting places in the whole of Britain for explorers and nature lovers.

29 – Bristol

The fun and occasionally unconventional city of Bristol is packed with cultural gems, grand architecture and great museums .

The historic port city has a number of maritime landmarks to discover such as the SS Great Britain , designed in the mid-19th century by the engineering mastermind, Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Another of Brunel’s masterpieces the Clifton Suspension Bridge has graced the city skyline since 1836. Visitors can take a walking tour of the bridge to discover what makes it so unique.

Those with a particular interest in architecture and history can also explore Cabot Tower, Wills Memorial Building and the historic Bristol City Docks .

The city also has a number of world-class museums to explore such as the We the Curious Science Museum and the expansive Bristol Museum and Art Gallery.

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Bristol

30 – Swansea

The second-largest city in Wales, Swansea has a stunning coastline that offers many opportunities for those who prefer to explore on foot.

Some of the finest walking locations in the area include the Gower Peninsula which boasts impressive rock formations and turquoise water . There are many attractive and wide-open beaches here also such as Three Cliffs Bay, Oxwich Bay and the popular Caswell Bay.

The nearby village of Mumbles is a small but bustling fishing village. There are a number of great gardens and parks to explore around the city such as Clyne Gardens and Pennllergare Valley Woods.

The Dylan Thomas Centre — dedicated to the celebrated local poet, is a must-visit for arts and literature fans.

31 – Winchester

The historic city of Winchester has been home to some of the country’s most illustrious figures.

The city dates back to Roman times and was England’s very first capital city . Visitors can explore its narrow and quaint streets which feature very old timber-frame and brick buildings.

Winchester Cathedral is over 900 years old and is packed with historic treasures, including a Winchester Bible and a Tournai Font which date from 1150. The Cathedral has stunning gothic architecture and is the final resting place of the famed author Jane Austen.

The Great Hall dates back to the 13th century and was once part of Winchester Castle. It houses the famous round table of King Arthur .

There are many other attractive areas of the city to visit, including the Hospital of St Cross, Winchester City Mill and the South Downs Way , which extends all the way to Eastbourne on the South Coast.

32 – Peak District

Covering over 500 square miles, the gently rolling hills of the peak district are a popular destination for hikers and outdoor adventurers .

Some of the best walks in the region include the Monsal Trail — which runs along a former railway line, Tissington Trail and Kinder Scout .

Check out some beautiful reservoirs in the area, including the Derwent Dam and Ladybower Reservoir, and the wildlife conservation area of Longshaw Estate .

There are plenty of attractions for those who aren’t into walking, such as the caves and rock formations of Speedwell Caverns and Treak Cliff Cavern .

The stunning country manor of Chatsworth House , home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, has lots to see including a renowned art collection and fantastic gardens.

33 – Bamburgh Castle

The epic Bamburgh Castle might be one of the most photogenic castles in the whole world.

The castle is still the home of the Armstrong family , who have resided there since the mid-1800s but its roots extend back over 1,000 years.

The site has been excavated by archeologists who have uncovered a number of artifacts including an Anglo-Saxon sword and gold decorations .

The castle was restyled by William Armstrong in the Victorian era who gave it its current interior look. Visitors can explore the Armory — which has an impressive collection of suits of armor, beautiful staterooms and the medieval-style King’s Hall.

Bamburgh Castle is sure to impress.

34 – Shetland Islands

Lying just off of Scotland, the Shetland Islands are home to some fascinating historic sites and ancient ruins.

The Viking and Nordic heritage of the island is well represented at the Viking Longhouse and the Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement.

The Shetland Museum and Archives has some interesting exhibits about the history of the area, and Mousa Iron Age Broch is one of the best-surviving forts from the era.

Discover the windswept Banna Minn Beach, Hermaness Nature Reserve and the towering Sumburgh Head Lighthouse on the southern tip of the mainland.

Visitors can check out the unique Bobby’s Bus Shelter on a tour of Unst isle for some lighthearted installation art.

35 – Canterbury

The ancient walled city of Canterbury dates back to Roman-era Britain and is rich in historic architecture.

Parts of Canterbury Cathedral date back to the year 597 AD when it was founded. The impressive structure is home to the Thomas Beckett Shrine .

The award-winning Beaney House of Art and Knowledge is a must-see museum when visiting the city. It hosts state-of-the-art exhibitions, as well as an art gallery and library all housed in a Tudor revival building.

Some of the city’s other important landmarks include Christ Church Gate , the attractive Westgate Gardens and Franciscan Gardens, and St. Augustine’s Abbey. The Canterbury  Roman Museum offers interesting insights into the city’s past .

36 – White Cliffs of Dover

For millennia, the iconic White Cliffs of Dover have been a symbolic sight for travelers returning and departing the continent.

The shining chalk limestone cliffs tower above the Straight of Dover — which is the shortest distance between the UK and Mainland Europe, and on a clear day, visitors can see the coast of France .

See and hike a number of trails with spectacular views of the coastline, or explore the World War II tunnel complex of Fan Bay Deep Shelter.

The area is also a terrific place to spot wildlife such as ravens, kittiwakes, falcons and gulls.

37 – Thorpe Park Resort

One of the UK’s most popular theme park resorts, Thorpe Park has an abundance of thrilling roller coasters, chilling rides and fun attractions.

Ride the Nemesis Inferno or the horror-themed Saw: The Ride . Take a spin on the towering Colossus — the world’s first 10-loop roller coaster or experience super-fast acceleration on Stealth.

The park has plenty of scary attractions too, including Derren Brown’s Ghost Train and the Walking Dead Ride , both of which combine live-action horror and spooky effects.

Black Mirror Labyrinth based on the popular TV show is one of the park’s newest attractions.

There are also plenty of family-friendly rides and amusements for younger kids to enjoy. Thorpe Park is fun for the whole family.

38 – Snowdonia

The stunning mountainous region of Wales, Snowdonia, attracts many thousands of visitors annually to explore its rugged landscap e.

The area is a popular spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, and there are hundreds of trails to explore in the area which offer incredible views throughout.

The town of Betws-y-Coed is considered the gateway to the Snowdonia National Park and is a jumping-off point for many explorers.

Mount Snowdon or Yr Wyddfa in Welsh is the focal point of the park and the tallest mountain in Wales . It is a fairly easy hike and achievable for most people. The largest Welsh lake , Llyn Tegid, can also be found in the Snowdon National Park.

One of the most fun attractions in the region is Zip World Fforest which has treetop rope courses to explore and a forest toboggan ride.

39 – Stratford-upon-Avon

Most famous for its association with William Shakespeare, the picturesque riverside town of Stratford-upon-Avon has lots to discover for history and literature fans.

Visitors can see the birthplace of Shakespeare and the cottage where Anne Hathaway — Shakespeare’s wife not the actor, lived before they were married.

You can also see the church where the couple is buried and other important landmarks such as the Schoolrooms and Guildhall where “The Bard” studied, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre which performs some of the writer’s most famous works.

Even if you are not a Shakespeare enthusiast, Stratford has plenty to see and do. Walk the attractive streets and leafy parks and gardens of the town. Soak up its historical ambiance or visit the Stratford Butterfly Farm which is supposedly the largest in Europe .

40 – Blackpool

The glitzy seaside attractions of Blackpool have been drawing visitors and holidaymakers to the town for decades.

The famous Blackpool Pleasure Beach features classic roller coaster rides and amusements that are fun for the whole family.

The famous Blackpool Tower is the town’s most iconic landmark and visitors can explore its glass-floored observation deck for the best views over the coastline.

Visit the fun Madame Tussauds wax museum and see amazing exotic creatures at the British seaside at Blackpool Zoo and SEA LIFE Blackpool.

Catch a show at the fantastic Blackpool Tower Ballroom or enjoy an evening of cabaret at Viva Blackpool.

Don’t miss the magnificent Victorian architecture of the Winter Gardens , one of the city’s most popular entertainment venues.

41 – Dunluce Castle

There has been a settlement at Dunluce Castle for almost 2,000 years and the current ruins date to the 17th and 18th centuries.

The ruined structure which overlooks the sea has inspired artists, writers and filmmakers with its romantic appearance. It has appeared in a number of movies and television series, including “Game of Thrones” where it doubled as the Iron Islands.

It was the seat of the battling McQuiland and MacDonell Clans from the 1600s who waged constant war with each other.

Dunluce Castle is thought to have been the inspiration for the hit C.S Lewis stories in “The Chronicles of Narnia.”

42 – Cairngorms

The wild and picturesque Cairngorms in the Eastern Highlands of Scotland are strewn with lush green valleys and picturesque lochs to discover.

This national park is home to some of the highest mountains and plateaus in Scotland and the British isles.

It’s not without its famous residents too. Balmoral Castle is the famous holiday residence of Queen Elizabeth II and is open to the public through the summer months.

Some of the most impressive sites in the area include attractive lakes like Loch Morlich, An Lochan Auaine — also known as the Green Loch and Loch an Eilein.

The Cairngorm Mountain Resort is a popular spot for winter sports adventures in the area.

43 – Jurassic Coast

Spanning from Exmouth in Devon to Old Harry Rocks in Dorset, the Jurassic Coast is one of the UK’s longest coastal trails .

The name comes from the many fossils from the Jurassic Period that have been found on the cliffs of the region — although there have also been plenty of Triassic and Cretaceous objects discovered too.

Visitors can walk in the actual footsteps of Dinosaurs at Keates Quarry , Spyway , or hunt for fossils along almost a hundred miles of coastline.

Take a guided tour of the best fossils and fossil hunting grounds along the Dorset coast, or kayak around the famous Durdle Door rock formation.

44 – LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort

One of the best places to visit in the UK for children aged up to 12, Legoland Windsor Resort is jam-packed with rides , attractions and opportunities to build and create .

The park has 12 different lands to discover and fantastic rides for kids of all ages such as the exhilarating and theatrical Flight of the Sky Lion, the interactive and watery Hydra’s Challenge and the magical flying roller coaster, The Dragon .

Explore the underwater world of the City Deep Sea Adventure or get goosebumps as you brave the Haunted House Monster Party.

There are lots of opportunities to get creative too at the Creature Creation, LEGO Education Center and Model Making Studios . A trip to Legoland is sure to be a trip to remember.

45 – Loch Ness

On the hunt for Nessie or just taking in the Highland scenery? Loch Ness is an awe-inspiring sight.

Reportedly the loch contains more water than all of the lakes in England and Wales Combined. It is the second-largest in Scotland and extends for over 22 miles. At its deepest point, it reaches 225 meters, making it the second deepest Scottish loch after Loch Morar .

Some stunning attractions in the area include the ruins of Urquhart Castle which juts out dramatically into the loch and the historic Fort Augustus .

The waterfalls of Foyers , on the loch’s south bank, are situated in dense woodland and the area is a particularly beautiful place to walk. From nearby, visitors can rent kayaks to explore Loch Ness in all its glory.

Alternatively, try one of the many bus and boat tours offered in the area.

46 – Brecon Beacons

The Brecon Beacons mountain range in South Wales is an outdoor adventure paradise at any time of the year.

Located in the heart of nature, the area has many excellent walking and cycling trails to discover. Some of the most picturesque hikes are the Four Waterfalls trail near the village of Ystradfellte, The Brecon Horseshoe circular route and the Pen y Fan trail.

There is an excellent system of waterways and canals that are perfect for exploring by kayak or paddleboard. Many kayakers launch from Brecon Promenade on the River Usk although the Brecon Basins Canal is also excellent.

Take a guided tour or adventure tour to discover the best natural landmarks and most stunning scenic areas in this awesome part of the Welsh countryside.

47 – Warwick Castle

One of the best places to visit in the Uk for history lovers, Warwick Castle brings medieval history to life .

The thousand-year-old castle is one of the best-preserved in the country and presents a whole program of action-packed themed events and attractions for visitors to see.

Younger kids especially will be enthralled by the historic fun on display, including battle reenactments, falconry displays, tours of the castle’s infamous dungeons and much more.

The live-action displays and knowledgeable staff will ignite your family’s curiosity.

Explore the castle’s stunning grounds, including its Great Hall and State Rooms, see full-size medieval weapons, and explore the interactive Maze based on the “Horrible Histories” TV Series. Warwick Castle is lots of fun!

48 – Norfolk Broads

A popular area for boating and beloved by anglers , the Norfolk Broads offers a peaceful place to escape from it all in the heart of nature.

While it’s best to explore the region by foot or by bike, many hire a boat and travel at their own pace through the Broads.

There is a diverse amount of wildlife to see in the woodlands and wetland areas, including otters, eels and water voles, as well as many types of wading birds like bitterns, cranes and herons.

The village of Wroxham , known as the “capital of the broads” is a nice place to explore and offers a number of boat hire options.

A trip on the Bure Valley miniature railway between Wroxham and Aylsham is a fun way to see the sights.

We hope you enjoyed this list of the best places to visit in the UK to help you plan your next vacation.

Let us know in the comments below which place is your favorite one.

As always, happy travels!

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20 Prettiest And Best Places To Visit In England

You know, one of the things I love about England is the diversity that we have. From the little coves on the Dorset Coast , gorgeous little hamlets and enough history to throw a stick at. All across the country, it’s filled to the brim with some of the best places to visit in England.

Okay but let’s start with the glaringly obvious, I’m biased and pretty proud of the beauty of England. I really do think that England is totally unique and much more than just cities like London .

Yes, these are amazing (and I love London more than any other city in the world) but it’s just one small area of our amazing country and there really is so much to see.

Over the last few years, I’ve made it my priority to explore so much more of England and to see the places that are right on my doorstep (it’s something that I regretted for the longest time… thinking that I needed to leave the UK to feel like I’d travelled. How wrong I was.

Anyway, better late than never, right? Whatever the case, If it’s your first trip around England or you’ll a dab hand at exploring our gorgeous country, I know you’ll find some of the best places to visit in England that you’ll just love.

Take a look at some of the very best places to visit in England. You’re going to have an amazing trip.

1.) Lake District

The Lake District is the UK’s newest UNESCO-protected site; and rightly so, it’s beautiful.

As you can probably tell from the name, the Lake District is filled with tranquil lakes, beautiful mountain ranges and a whole heap of tiny villages to explore.

Best of all, each lake has a slightly different character that’s unique.

The most well-known is Windermere Lake, but if you want to avoid the crowds, pop over to Ullswater Lake and check into Another Place, The Lake (which is the sister hotel of the Watergate Bay I mention in Cornwall).

Whilst here, head out onto the Ullswater steamer, try your hand at paddleboarding and hike to the top of Harter Fell for some of the best views across the Lake District.

It really is one of the best places to visit in England, especially if you can fit in a tour that takes in ten of the lakes.

We loved this tour of the Lake District , especially as it’s a 1-day trip and perfect if you’re only staying for a long weekend.

Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District

2.) Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle is one of the oldest settlements I think I’ve visited in England… people have lived here for over 8,000 years.

It’s a total throwback and it’ll feel like you’ve stepped back 1,000 years to an Olde English world. It really does feel like that.

Once here, take a stroll through the castle of Corfe, wander all the little boutiques and grab a yummy Sunday roast at Mortons House Restaurant.

If trains are your thing, you can even take a historic train from Corfe Castle Station to Swanage.

Read more: Our visit to Corfe Castle

3.) The Cotswolds

Yeah, the Cotswolds are a recurring theme for me! About 2 hours or so from London, the Cotswolds is an area of outstanding natural beauty that you’ll love (and easily one of the best places to visit in England).

Once you’re there, make sure to visit Bibury to see the gorgeous Arlington Row , pop into the Upper and Lower Slaughters (they’re far less gruesome than they sound), and head over to other spots like the Chipping Steps in Tetbury and Bourton-on-the-Water , too.

To be honest, I always find it easiest to get around the Cotswolds by car (although some bus routes and trains do run) you’ll have much more freedom to explore the tiny hamlets, towns and rolling hills.

That being said, if you don’t drive, you can book an incredible Cotswolds tour . This is especially good if you don’t drive. Plus it takes all the stress out of planning your destinations in the Cotswolds and it’s all so easy.

For a great place to stay, head to The Royal Oak in Tetbury or the Wood Norton which are both so lovely and quaint.

Read more: Best things to do in the Cotswolds

4.) Cambridge

Okay, Cambridge always holds a soft spot with me. It’s a relatively small city that is perfect to explore over a few days.

Once here, make sure to head up to the Church of St Mary the Great where you can climb the tower and get some incredible vistas over the city (just watch out for the bells ringing, it makes the tower shake).

Also, don’t forget to pop inside Kings College and the incredible chapel that’s just so awe-inspiring to see. Inside the chapel, you can still faintly see the ‘graffiti’ from Oliver Cromwell’s army that still stands to this day.

Oh yeah, keep your eyes peeled for the huge wooden rood screen inside the chapel – it was gifted by Henry VIII (the one that had six wives) to Anne Boylen and is one of the most striking features in the centre of the chapel.

In fact, you can book your very own guided tour of Cambridge on a punt (on the river)! This is such a great way to explore the city and totally unique. You’ll love Cambridge.

Read more: Best things to do in Cambridge

There’s just something about Bath , and you’ll totally know what I mean once you arrive. This ancient Roman Spa settlement still has some of the incredible features from the Roman Times.

Make sure to pop into the Roman Baths themselves and learn more about the incredible history of this place. It really is one of the best places to visit in England.

For a tasty treat, take a stroll over to Sally Lunn’s; she is the most famous and one of the oldest bun makers in the city. They taste so good!

Also, if you want to make things easier to get around Bath, book this hop-on, hop-off bus ticket . This way, it takes all the stress out of trying to find all of Bath’s best spots.

Read more: Best things to do in Bath

6.) Bristol

So Bristol is one of those cities that totally surprised me. My first-ever visit to Bristol was a little disappointing (I have to be honest).

I just think I hadn’t really found my ‘tribe’ of things I’d like on my first visit… all my fault, of course!

Thankfully, I was determined to give Bristol another shot, armed with much more info on the kind of spots I’d love .

This just did it for me – I fell in love with the city straight away and it’s really up there with the best places to visit in England.

Once there, head on a trail to see some of Bristol’s most iconic contemporary artists, including Banksy.

There’s a whole heap across his home city. Afterwards, head over to Whapping Wharf and Spike Island to whisk away the afternoon on the seafront with all the art spaces, restaurants and boutique little shops or pop over to the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Read more: Best things to do in Bristol

There’s a lot of friendly rivalry between Oxford and Cambridge as places to visit (and study). Some say Cambridge is the best… others say it’s Oxford. I’m gonna leave the final decision to you.

Now, Oxford itself is easily one of the best places to visit in England, especially if you’re based in London or on a longer road trip.

Whilst here, make sure to visit Christ Church College , head onto the river punting and wet your whistler at the Thirsty Meeples – a really quirky board game cafe in the city.

Finally, book a tour, with an actual alumni guide to take you all around the best spots in Oxford. It’s a great way to explore the city and is so interesting.

Read more: Best things to do in Oxford

8.) Norwich

It took me far too long to make our first trip to Norwich (England’s first-ever medieval city) and I’m ashamed to say that my very first visit was this year. well, better late than never, eh?

Perched about 2 hours north of London by train, it’s one of the best places to visit in England and a spot that I know you’ll love.

Whilst you’re here, make sure to explore the incredible cathedral, see the historic cobbled streets and wander to the central market that’s been held permanently in the town for over 1,000 years (when it was a Saxon market).

For a tasty bite to eat, head outside Norwich to the Fur and Feathers who make one delicious feat from local ingredients.

Oh, and finish your day with the best chippy in all of England at the Grosvenor Fish Bar ; all served with lashings of vinegar, of course.

Read more: Best things to do in Norwich

9.) Stonehenge

Possibly one of the most famous ancient sites in England, Stonehenge is a spot you have to see. Perched west of London (about 80 minutes away by car), it really is one of the best places to visit in England – especially for us history buffs!

It’s been recorded that the stones of Stonehenge actually came from west Wales a huge distance from when it was built.

Still, to this day, there are no conclusive ideas of why this was built or what it represents but there are theories around a place of worship, thanks, ceremony and community.

Just be aware that Stonehenge is a really popular spot, so if you don’t like crowds it’s best to book your Stonehenge tickets for more ‘off-peak’ times.

Either visit first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon (just before closing), this way you’ll have missed the bus tours and will only have a few eager beavers with you who have the same idea.

Also, if you want to visit and you’re going to be based in London, book this amazing half-day Stonehenge tour that leaves from Central London for a day trip.

Read more: Our visit to Stonehenge

10.) Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast always sounds so mysterious and pre-historic to me. I mean, the clue is in the name really but it always intrigued me right up until I visited this year.

This intrigue quickly turned to excitement when I realised that you can actually go fossil hunting on the UNESCO-protected coastline .

The thing that makes this area so good for fossil hunting is that the eroding cliffs on this stretch of coast have actually been pushed way up out of the seabed to create a piece of land.

Nowadays, as the cliffs slowly erode, they scatter a whole range of fossils that are all along the beach for us all to find.

Keep your eyes peeled and be patient. On our last visit, Yaya and I collected about 10 different fossils! It’s just so crazy to think that you’re the first living being to lay eyes on these fossils for 92 million years.

Oh, also, I nearly forgot – don’t forget to pop across the Jurassic Coast to visit the famous Durdle Door , Old Harry Rock’s and grab a bite to eat (and/or stay) at the Pig on the Beach . It’s so gorgeous.

Read more: How to go fossil hunting in England

11.) Watergate Bay

Watergate Bay is one of those places where you arrive and almost instantly fall into that relaxing beach vibe that makes Cornwall so great.

Whilst here, make sure to hike across the gorgeous coast, pop over to nearby Newquay and stay at the idyllic Watergate Bay Hotel.

Best of all, in Cornwall, you can book a fun surfing lesson in one of the best regions in England to surf.

Oh yeah, and if surfing is your thing then I’m positive you’ll love this spot. It really is one of the best places to visit in England… especially for sea lovers.

Read more: Visiting the Watergate Bay

12.) St Michael’s Mount

St Michael’s (not to be confused with Mount Saint Michel in France ) is another of Cornwall’s gems that you should see. Perched on a tidal island, it’s possibly one of the prettiest and best places to visit in England.

Legend has it that a giant still inhabits the cave on the island. Folklore or not, it’s enough to put the heeby-jeebies in you when the sun begins to set.

Read more: Top spots to visit in Cornwall

13.) Robin Hood’s Bay

Perched just south of Whitby in Yorkshire, Robin Hood’s Bay is one stunning and totally historic seaside village you have to visit.

Once a key smugglers’ village to bring in contraband items like alcohol, Robin Hood’s Bay still has a network of smuggler tunnels underneath the town itself.

Now, you can’t go in them today but it’s an incredible spot to visit and to learn more about the history of this age-old fisherman town. It really is one of the best places to visit in England.

Whilst in the area, make sure to visit Tea, Toast & Post for some tasty grub (their lunches are so good). Plus, they brew some of the best tea on the Yorkshire coast.

Read our full post on visiting Robin Hood’s Bay

14.) Castle Howard

Just a little shy of York , Castle Howard is truly a stunning castle to explore. You’ll honestly be blown away by how beautiful this place is and really is one of the best places to visit in England.

Once inside, head to some of the incredible rooms and experience a little slice of this stunning home.

During certain times of the year, Castle Howard hosts afternoon teas that are properly tasty and a real treat. Served with some piping hot Yorkshire tea, sweet treats and sandwiches it’s a lovely experience.

Although you might not be able to stay in Castle Howard , you can check into the beautiful Judges Court (In York ) that’s about 12 miles away.

Read more: Visiting Castle Howard

15.) London

I couldn’t forget to shout out London as one of the best places to visit in England, could I? I mean, it’s one of my favourite cities in the world and there’s so much to do that you’ll love.

If it’s your first time in London, make sure to check out some of the amazing neighbourhoods of; Covent Garden , King’s Cross , Notting Hill , Camden Town , Shoreditch , Peckham and Whitechapel .

Each of these neighbourhoods is totally unique and a great way to see the diversity that is London.

If you’re looking for some unique places, make sure to see some of London’s secret spots , its incredible markets , best bars and restaurants with a view . You’ll gorge on everything in sight!

Also, you can book yourself this gorgeous London cruise for a trip up the Thames. It’s a great way to see the city, especially at sunset.

Read more: Best things to do in London

16.) Holy Island

This has to be one of my favourite castles (and islands) in all of England. Perched on Holy Island, Lindisfarne Castle is properly stunning to see in person.

There’s just something so magical about it (and yes, that’s really cheesy to say, but it does feel like that).

Once here, head for a hike across the incredible shoreline, pop over to Holy Island and explore the castle and finish your day off in Berwick Upon Tweed where you can grab a yummy bite at the Maltings Kitchen .

Read more: Best islands to explore in England

17.) Birmingham

Birmingham often gets missed by lots of people’s travel plans in favour of some of the other big-hitting spots like London (or Edinburgh , across the border in Scotland). With that being said, it’s only about 80 minutes from London by train and there are so many cool spots to see.

Whilst you’re there, make sure to explore the Coffin Works see Winterbourne House and Garden and gorge on all the food at Carters of Moseley – they make an epic Orkney scallops dish, the tastiest mousse pudding made out of Douglas Fir and some yummy cakes.

It really is a contender for the best places to visit in England.

Read more: Best things to do in Birmingham

18.) Cirencester

Cirencester is a historic market town that’s easily reached by car or by train from most places in England. It’s the kind of town you visit and somehow wonder have you’ve spent all day exploring. It’s one of my favourite market towns and possibly one of the best places to visit in England.

Once you’ve arrived, make sure to explore the Parish Church of St John Baptist, visit the Elemental Sculpture Park and pop into The Fleece for some of the tastiest grub.

For a beautiful place to rest your head, check into the historic Royal Oak which is in Tetbury (about 25 minutes away)

Read more: What to see in Cirencester

If you fancy a little galivant away from the hustle and bustle of London, rent a car or take the train to the gorgeous and totally historic town of Rye. In fact, even if you’re travelling around the south-east of England, I’d suggest a trip to Rye.

It’s one of the best places to visit in England if you love quaint towns and a history that dates back centuries. Just be sure to check out Mermaid Street with its gorgeous cobbled road, visit the antique shops all around the town and visit the Rye Castle Museum.

Afterwards, you can easily partner a trip to Rye with the likes of Camber Sands for a beach day; or even Bodian Castle for a little more history. Just be sure to plan your day well, it’ll be filled up in no time!

Read more: Best day trips from London

20.) Manchester

Manchester always feels like that cool cousin you see at family parties and always wanna hang around with. Always hip, trendy and totally cool.

The city has such a cool vibe and really is one of the best places to visit in England if you want to experience a vibrant city (outside of London, of course).

For a tasty bite to eat, pop into Umezushi which makes the best sushi in the north and gorge at Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill which really will give you a good taste of Mancunian life.

If it’s football you’re into, book an Old Trafford Stadium tour that’ll take you around one of the world’s most famous clubs.

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34 Best Things to Do in London, England

Whether you're keen to brush up on your history knowledge at the Tower of London , tour the home of the monarchy at Buckingham Palace or check out one of the city's many art galleries, London isn't short on things to do. Thespians will

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Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, King Charles III's London home, is open for touring (except for the king's private quarters, of course) from July to October. On the tour, you'll have access to the 19 State Rooms where the king and members of the royal family host guests for state, ceremonial and official affairs. Opulently accented with chandeliers, candelabras, paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto, and exquisite English and French furniture, these rooms display some of the most magnificent pieces from the Royal Collection. Along with the grand interiors, the State Rooms, where kings and queens have entertained guests on both official and ceremonial occasions, are also a witness to history. Those who followed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton closely will recognize the Throne Room, which served as the backdrop for the pair's official wedding photographs.

For tours in the summer, recent travelers suggested taking advantage of the multimedia guide (included with admission and available in multiple languages), so that you hear a detailed history of each room at your own pace. The palace advises you set aside at least two hours to see the State Rooms (and that you wear comfortable shoes), while recent travelers advised that you use the facilities prior to the start of the tour; there are no public restrooms available until you reach the garden. Except in the Garden Café, no food or drinks (except bottled water) are permitted in the palace.

Tower of London Tower of London

Although its exterior might be grim and even unimpressive (especially when compared to stately  Buckingham Palace ), the Tower of London's interior is always bustling with activity. Despite its name, the large complex has a long history as a palace, a fortress and a prison. Each exhibition and activity here explores this history.

If you're enchanted with the monarchy, don't miss the famous crown jewels exhibition. Among the items you'll see is the Imperial State Crown – which is still worn by the queen for each State Opening of Parliament – and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. In 2020, Prince of Wales' Investiture Coronet joined the display in the Jewel House. For an oral history, take an entertaining tour led by the Yeoman Warders (tower guards). During the hourlong excursion (included in your admission ticket), the guards will regale you with tales of the tower's bloody past. The White Tower is one of the world's most famous castles and a recognizable London landmark. Inside, you'll find the 350-year-old exhibition, "Line of Kings," which includes suits of armor worn by Henry VIII, Charles I, and James II. Keep an eye out for the Tower's famous ravens, who are said to guard the structure.

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

Step through halls where history was made time and again by visiting the British Parliament. Guided and self-guided tours (which come highly recommended by recent travelers) take visitors through multiple areas of the building, including Westminster Hall (the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate, which is more than 900 years old), the House of Commons Chamber and the House of Lords. If you're not interested in perusing the corridors that make up the U.K.'s governing body, many travelers say that simply admiring the iconic structure's impressive exterior is enough, and an absolute must-do for anyone visiting London. 

If you're one of many looking to snap your own photo of one of the most photographed buildings in the world, the best vantage point is from Westminster Bridge. But if you want a truly smashing shot, head on over to Lambeth Bridge or the Golden Jubilee Bridges on the South Bank for a view of Parliament and the London Eye together. Keep in mind that Westminster Bridge connects two of the city's most popular attractions ( London Eye  and Parliament), and as a result is almost always very crowded.

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Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

This medieval church, graced by many royal weddings and coronations, offers a magnificent peek at London's far-reaching history. Westminster Abbey is generally busy – and the staff keeps you moving at a pretty swift pace – so do a little research ahead of time to avoid missing your personal must-sees. For instance, if you're a bibliophile, consider a visit to the Poets' Corner. This is the final resting place of famed authors Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens and Rudyard Kipling, among others. If you're fascinated by all the intrigue surrounding the British royalty, you might like to visit the shared tomb of enemies and half sisters Elizabeth I and Mary Tudor.

If you prefer to see the abbey at your own pace, but still want a little guidance on the history you're encountering, take advantage of the multimedia guides, which are included in the price of admission and available in 14 languages. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour (led by the abbey's vergers) and see special places inaccessible to the public, including the tomb containing Saint Edward the Confessor. If you decide to take this tour, you'll pay 10 pounds (around $14) on top of the general admission price.

British Museum British Museum free

The British Museum is both an architectural beauty and a trove of some of the world's most noted antiquities. In fact, many travelers say it's the best museum in all of London. What's more, it's free to visit. From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon Sculptures to Mesopotamian objects, the British Museum is a history buff's dream containing artifacts in the millions. The immense collection can make an initial museum visit seem overwhelming: Pick the exhibits that most interest you, and plan return trips if you feel so inclined.

If you want a little help navigating the museum's exhibits – the approximately 80,000 objects on display out of its collection totaling 8 million items – consider tagging along on a guided tour. Several, including the daily eye-opener tours and the LBGTQ-themed "Desire, Love, Identity" tour and Friday evening spotlight tours are free. You can also book an "Around the World in 60 Minutes" tour for 14 pounds (around $20). Audio guides, which cost 7 pounds (about $10), are also available to rent daily.

Covent Garden Covent Garden free

Though called a garden, Covent Garden isn't all about plants and flowers. Rather, it's a piazza and a collection of urban streets boasting numerous upscale stores as well as bars, restaurants, art installations and more. In other words, it's a bustling neighborhood within London's West End. Shops range from famous trademarks like Ralph Lauren and Mulberry to independent brands. In addition to conventional shops and boutiques, Covent Garden has a covered market area where vendors sell everything from antiques to crafts. Similarly, dining options range from foodie destinations like Sushi Samba and Balthazar to casual pubs. Given Covent Garden's open-air orientation, there are appropriately more than 1,000 seats for al fresco dining.

Covent Garden is also home to the Royal Opera House. Even if you're unable (or disinclined) to see an opera, you can tour the lavishly appointed Royal Opera House. Architecture-enthusiasts find the building, especially its glass atrium, stunning and the tours informative. General admission tickets are 19 pounds (about $24) for adults and 16.75 pounds (about $21) for anyone younger than 16. (Check the opera house’s website for dates and times.)

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Wander over to nearby Chinatown to sample its slew of Asian restaurants and bubble tea shops, and continue on into Soho for some of the city's best LGBT-friendly bars. – Laura French

Regularly compared to  New York 's  Times Square , Piccadilly Circus is the meeting place of five busy roads and is the center of London's hustle and bustle. Whether it's people on their way to work in the morning, shoppers en route to the chain store-lined Oxford Street (just a few blocks north) or lively club and bar hoppers passing through at night, Piccadilly is always thrumming with activity. 

West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a fun night out, buy tickets for a showing of Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap," which is the longest-running play in history. – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Catching a show in London's West End theater district is just as necessary as watching a play on  Broadway  during a trip to  New York City . The quality is some of the best in the U.K., and the constant mix of new and classic productions with local and world-renowned talent (think: Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Angela Lansbury, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Benedict Cumberbatch) excites both visitors and locals alike. Even if you don't consider yourself much of a theater devotee, recent travelers said the atmosphere, specifically near the lively Leicester Square, where many of the theaters are concentrated, is worth a late-night wander.

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Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A short stroll from Hyde Park Corner will take you to The Grenadier – a tiny pub hidden down a cobbled alley. It opened in 1818 as an officers' mess and now serves beers and classic pub fare in atmospheric, wood-strewn surroundings. – Laura French

Just north of the Royal Albert Hall and northwest of Buckingham Palace  sit Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens: a stretch of green bisected by West Carriage Drive. Hyde Park was once the recreational stomping grounds for King Henry VIII, but now this 350-acre swath of land is open to the public and a must-visit for travelers looking for a relaxing moment away from the city's hustle and bustle. Among Hyde Park's meandering foot and bike paths and flourishing flora and fauna, you'll find a few standout attractions that are worth exploring. Watch the swans and boats glide over the serene Serpentine Lake (or rent a vessel yourself), visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or stop by the Speakers' Corner, a site for public speeches and debates since the 19th century (previously used by George Orwell and Vladimir Lenin, among others). For the sporting set, Hyde Park has tennis courts, football pitches (remember: football means soccer here) and a horse-riding arena.  

The London Eye The London Eye

The London Eye (the giant Ferris wheel found in many London panoramas) is on the River Thames and meant to deliver great views – not a thrilling ride. It circles around slowly, offering an unbeatable bird's-eye perspective of London's South Bank. However, those with a fear of heights should beware: When you're more than 400 feet high, the 360-degree views can be a bit disconcerting.

While some travelers say the London Eye is an absolute must-do, others found the experience to be overrated. Some recent travelers said the lines were too long (upward of a couple hours) and the ticket prices too high. However, many others were amazed by the views, especially  Parliament  and  Buckingham Palace . Visitors were keen to note that this ride is not a fast one, with the average rotation of the wheel at least 30 minutes long. You can also combine a ride on the London Eye with a guided boat tour.

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

For nearly 200 years, Trafalgar square has been a London institution. Flanked by the National Gallery , the square features two fountains, several busts and bronze lions at the base of Nelson's Column. The column, which honors Admiral Horatio Nelson for his success at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, stands 16 feet tall. At its base, bronze panels detail some of Nelson's battles and the two lions are there to protect the monument.

Recent travelers appreciated this famous London locale, noting that it's a great spot for photos and people-watching. However, know that aside from the National Gallery and surrounding shops and restaurants, there isn't much to do at the square itself.

St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is arguably the second must-see church in London (the first, of course, being Westminster Abbey ). With its imposing dome – one of the largest in the world – St. Paul's forms a predominant spot along London's skyline. It's also a survivor: Although an older incarnation burnt during the Great Fire of London in 1666, the current dome (designed by Sir Christopher Wren and officially completed in 1711) survived numerous World War II bombings.

To make the most of your visit, reviewers highly recommended climbing to the top of the dome to the Golden Gallery. You'll have to hike up 528 steps, but after catching your breath you'll enjoy far-reaching views of the River Thames, the  Tate Modern , and Shakespeare's Globe . And once you've seen the top, head below ground to the crypt (the largest in Europe), where the tombs of notable figures such as Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington as well as Wren are housed. Though some reviewers are put off by the pricey admission, most agree that a peek inside is well worth the extra coin.

Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Before or after your visit, head next door to the Science Museum to browse interactive exhibits and live science shows, and catch a film at the IMAX, one of the UK's biggest screens (entry to the museum itself is free, though some exhibitions are extra). – Laura French

Located in South Kensington, this museum brims with data from 70,000 different species (from animals to tiny protozoa) and exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaur bones to simulated earthquakes. The Natural History Museum is also a favorite among families, so you'll find it crawling with kids.

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St. James's Park St. James's Park free

One of London's eight Royal Parks, St. James's Park is nearly 57 acres. It's surrounded by three palaces: its namesake St. James’s Palace, Westminster (now the Houses of Parliament ) and Buckingham Palace . The park's semi-circular flower beds – the Memorial Gardens – which sit beside Buckingham are one of its major attractions. The park is flanked one side by the Mall, a route for royal processions that bisects the gardens and on another by the Horse Guards Parade, a parade ground where the annual Trooping the Colour is held. Other notable buildings nearby include No. 10 Downing Street (the Prime Minister's residence) and the Churchill War Rooms . The park also features a portion of the 7-mile Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk and provides habitat for various animal species, including foxes and ducks as well as its famed pelicans. Additionally, runners race through St. James's park as the final leg of the annual London Marathon.

Visitors invariably find the park to be quite stunning and well-maintained. It’s deemed an excellent place for walking while admiring the many historical structures nearby.

National Gallery National Gallery free

Sitting in Trafalgar Square, London's National Gallery features a labyrinth interior so large that it requires a color-coded map to navigate. The museum features paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to early 20th centuries, including Italian Renaissance masterpieces and French Impressionist works. Among its 2,300 in-house pieces, visitors will find famed paintings, such as Botticelli's "Venus and Mars," Rembrandt’s “Self Portrait at the Age of 34” and Van Gogh's "Sunflowers." 

Recent visitors loved the variety of paintings at the National Gallery, saying that travelers may need more than a day to get a glimpse at all the masterpieces that grace its never-ending halls. They also commend the gallery's cafe.

Borough Market Borough Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Across from Borough Market sits the Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garrett: a tiny museum housed in an 18th-century attic of that's the oldest surviving operating theatre (think: operating room) in Europe. It displays intriguing artifacts about the gruesome medical practices of the past. – Laura French

The food-focused Borough Market is effectively three markets in one (with restaurants, bars and shops interspersed throughout). Three Crown Square features large producers and merchants while Green Market has smaller, specialty ones. You'll find everything from cheese to wine to pastries to produce. Borough Market Kitchen provides a platform for street-food vendors. The roughly 1,000-year-old market regularly hosts cooking demonstrations and classes.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick an early tour time and explore slowly. There is so much to see that you may miss small details if you go too quickly. And don't worry about time. Once you're inside, you can stay as long as you like (well, until closing). – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Located at the studios where all eight of the "Harry Potter" films were produced, this is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the Wizarding World. Visitors can view original film sets – from the Great Hall to Gringotts, Diagon Alley to the Gryffindor Common Room – with hundreds of original props and costumes to browse. Glimpse the model used for Hogwarts Castle, learn about Hagrid's animatronic head, visit Platform 9 ¾ and board the Hogwarts Express; this is a comprehensive, interactive tour for the whole family that's well worth adding to your London bucket list.

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

Home to more than 40 British monarchs and in use since the 11th century, Windsor Castle is a spectacular daytrip from London. Visitors can wander the elaborate state rooms, observe the famous Changing the Guard and admire the many artworks and collectibles on display. Should time allow, take a stroll along the Long Walk: a nearly 3-mile-long tree-lined road that is part of the castle's park. Though you'll find a cafe and souvenir shop on-site, Windsor (the town) offers a bevy of dining and shopping options.

Though always crowded, a visit to Windsor should not be missed. Time and again, travelers say that it is a wonderful place to see while in London, and many were repeat visitors. Additionally, travelers with mobility issues said they had little trouble exploring the castle.

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Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're able, opt for a standing ticket at the performance. You'll get a more authentic experience, plus your proximity to the actors lets you admire their facial expressions and costumes. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

This is not the Globe Theatre of Shakespeare's time. The original Globe Theatre – which staged Shakespeare's plays and where the Bard wrote "Twelfth Night," "King Lear," and several others – opened in 1599 and burned down in 1613. The second Globe was erected in 1614 but was then torn down in 1644, after all theaters where shuttered by Parliament. The current incarnation – referred to as the Globe Theatre by its staff – has been in operation since 1997 and it is a celebrated performing arts venue dedicated to staging the Bard's plays. In a nod to its much older namesake, today's open-air theater has a thatched roof – the only one in the city – that does not cover the central yard. Seating is in the round. Or, for a truly memorable experience, you can choose to stand in the yard just below the stage to watch a performance (as many did in Shakespeare's time).  

Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in December to see Carols at the Royal Albert Hall; it's a spectacular, sing-along show guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. – Laura French

Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall where musicians of all genres perform. It also hosts special non-concert events, including sporting events and dance performances. The building's famed 20,000-square-foot iron roof was the largest unsupported dome in the world when it was installed in 1869 (two years before the hall officially opened). An 800-foot long, 5,200-square-foot mosaic frieze dubbed "The Triumph of Arts and Letters" encircles the structure's exterior. The hall can accommodate 5,900 people.

Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

The palatial Victoria & Albert Museum, named in honor of the 19th-century royal couple, is known more commonly in its shortened form – the V&A. Located in South Kensington, this free museum is a compendium of applied art across a number of genres, disciplines and time periods. The collections are arranged by categories, such as sculptures, Chinese artifacts, and so on, making it slightly easier to navigate this mammoth museum. Among the permanent collections, the V&A also offers diverse temporary exhibitions and free weekly public lectures.

Recent travelers praised the variety and sheer enormity of the art offered here. Many described its permanent collection as surprise around every corner. If you've only set aside a few hours to tour the museum, consult the building's map before you go; a map will help you plan a route of the collections you'd like to see and maximize your visit.

Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

Along with Parliament and Big Ben, Tower Bridge is London's next must-see architectural marvel, not to mention the most famous bridge that crosses the Thames. Construction on the bridge started in 1886, which means it's practically modern by London standards, but Tower Bridge stands out for its stunning detail and moveable roadways that lift up when large ships need to pass through. The views from the bridge are an added bonus. From the elevated sidewalks visitors get a prime view of the  Tower of London ,  St. Paul's Cathedral's iconic dome, the London Eye and The Monument.

If you're interested in viewing the city from a higher vantage point (about 137 feet above the Thames), consider a visit inside Tower Bridge, during which you go to the top of the bridge – equipped with a glass floor – as well as to the bottom to the engine rooms. However, recent visitors say that those who are afraid of heights might want to forgo walking across the glass floor.

Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, which Henry VIII acquired in the 1520s and subsequently expanded, features the Grand Hall (with Anne Boleyn's coat of arms carved in the ceiling and antique tapestries on the walls) and the largest kitchens in Tudor England (capable of producing 800 meals a day). Its grounds include 60 acres of formal gardens complete with the oldest surviving hedge maze in the country as well as the largest grape vine in the world.

Past visitors observe that there’s a lot to see and that the huge palace necessitates a lot of walking. They also recommend the audio tour, which is included in the ticket price. The gardens are frequently singled out as worthy of attention.

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Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

Meandering just shy of 9 miles from Paddington in the west to the Limehouse Basin in the east, this charming river walk offers an idyllic escape from the bustle of the city. It passes several postcard-pretty spots, including Little Venice, where quaint cafes, pubs and restaurants sit on the waterfront; Regent's Park, one of London's most popular green spaces and the home of London Zoo; and Camden Lock, famous for its markets, street food stalls and antique shops. You'll also get to see the East End, including trendy Dalston, Victoria Park (home to a farmers market every Sunday) and Mile End.

There's history behind it, too; the canal opened in the early 19th century to transport coal, building materials and other goods from northern industrial cities to King's Cross – a long-standing center for trade – and operated for more than 140 years.

Camden Market Camden Market free

Londoners and out-of-towners alike enjoy spending a morning (or afternoon) at the Camden Market. Camden Market is actually multiple markets spread out in the neighborhood of Camden. It sprawls with more than 1,000 stalls, shops, bars and cafes carrying close to everything, from furniture to food and lots of fashion. Looking for cheap graphic T-shirts and dresses? Head over to the first set of Camden Market stalls located closest to the Tube station. If you're looking for more of a mix of items, walk over the bridge to the lock market, situated on the peaceful Camden Lock. You'll find stalls filled with antiques, clothing, souvenirs and a variety of food stalls. Food on offer ranges from traditional fish and chips to Middle Eastern fare, hot dogs and Portuguese tarts. This area gives way to the long and winding stables market, consisting of vendors selling vintage home decor, leather goods and clothing.

It's easy to get lost in this market, but with all it has to offer, including cool restaurants and bars tucked between nooks and crannies, visitors agree it's also very fun. The only grievance travelers had concerned the massive crowds that form during the weekend. If you don't want to be shopping amidst wall-to-wall people, consider visiting during the week. Even if you're not intent on shopping, many visitors recommend the market for its diverse food stalls. You can find the Camden Market off of the Camden Town, or Chalk Farm Tube stops, as well as the Camden Road Overground stop. Bus routes nos. 24, 214, 274 and 393 also stop in the area. The market is open daily from 10 a.m. until roughly 6 p.m. (though different businesses may open and close at different times). For more information about the vendors at the market, visit its official website .

Tate Modern Tate Modern free

Located on the South Bank along the Thames, the Tate Modern is part of a group of four museums (all named Tate) which house the 70,000 artworks that comprise the national collection of British art. As its name suggest, this Tate holds the more contemporary-style pieces than its three other counterparts, making it more of a hit or miss among travelers. Dalí and Picasso, as well as many British artists, are represented inside this repurposed power plant – but you'll find the works are scattered. Art is grouped by theme rather than by artist.

Recent visitors said if you're a fan of contemporary and modern art, you'll enjoy the Tate Modern. If you're partial to antiquities or the more traditional works of art, you'll probably be better served at the  British Museum  or the  National Gallery . Art aside, the eateries located within the museum may be enough of a reason for travelers to visit. Both the Espresso Bar and Kitchen and Bar at Tate Modern afford stunning views of  St. Paul's Cathedral , which is situated on the other side of the river. At the very least, take a stroll along the Thames to view the museum's impressive exterior.

Greenwich Greenwich free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Skip the tube and hop on an Uber Boat to arrive in Greenwich by water – they depart from various stops along the Thames, including Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Westminster and the London Eye, with single fares from £5.20. – Laura French

Sitting southeast of central London, Greenwich is a great daytrip within city limits and well worth the trek. Greenwich's claim to fame is undoubtedly the Royal Observatory, where the prime meridian bisects the institution and travelers can stand on both the eastern and western hemispheres. Other favorite museums and attractions include the Greenwich Market, the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Greenwich Market. 

Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

Famous for its waxworks, this was the first Madame Tussauds museum in the world, established in 1884 on Marylebone Road to display works by French sculptor Marie Tussaud. During the French Revolution, Tussaud was forced craft works of executed nobles – including King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette – to prove she was loyal to the crown. Following the end of the revolution, she left France and traveled to Britain, bringing the waxworks with her, in the early 1800s. Today, the museum upholds the waxwork tradition, with more than 150 realistic-looking figures displayed across 11 zones – from Leonardo DiCaprio to Lady Gaga, Brad Pitt to Harry Styles and Barack Obama to King Charles III.

Recent visitors were impressed and said they enjoyed exploring the different themed areas – from "Star Wars" to "Marvel" – as well as the new Chamber of Horrors room, which explores London's historic criminals. The taxi-themed ride and Marvel 4D show were also a hit, and many recommended it for families, especially those with teenagers. Several commented that lines can be long, even with pre-booked tickets, and it can get crowded inside.

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Up at The O2 Up at The O2

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go early in the morning for crisp air and fewer crowds. Afterwards, head southwest to Greenwich for some food and shopping at Greenwich Market. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Climb over the roof of The O2 – London's arena for major musical and sporting events – for unparalleled views of the city. The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf are among the sights observable from the 170-foot apex. Excursions generally take about 90 minutes, with an hour of walking that travelers typically find rewarding.

Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

Locals and tourists alike tend to adore Portobello Road Market. Located in the posh Notting Hill neighborhood (made famous by the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts movie of the same name), the market stretches down the long Portobello Road, which is considered to be the area's high street (or main street). The market is filled with hundreds of merchants of all kinds selling a variety of common flea market items including antiques, art, jewelry, clothing and food. But what stands out about Portobello Market (aside from its adorably colorful location) is its collection of antiques and quintessentially English items. In just a few blocks, visitors can find a wellie shop, scores of vintage tea sets, quality London souvenirs and Banksy recreations. The market is also billed as being the largest antiques market in the world. If you have a penchant for fashion, the best sampling is found at the end of the market near the Ladbroke Grove Tube stop. There, visitors will not only find the greatest concentration of locals but a great selection of vintage attire as well.

Recent visitors loved Portobello Market for its lively atmosphere, wide selection of items and cheap food stalls. Although many lauded the quality found at the food stalls, some urged visitors to check out nearby restaurants, as many serve exceptional British and international fare. Others also advised visitors to pay close attention to their belongings. Portobello Market is not only very crowded, but concentrated on a narrow street, creating an easy opportunity for pickpockets to strike. 

The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

Delve into London's macabre past at this interactive attraction, which explores the history of Jack the Ripper, Guy Fawkes, Sweeney Todd and other criminals through live actors, exhibits and rides. Smell, see and hear the city of yesteryear as you wander through the underground vaults of County Hall on the South Bank, exploring a darker side to this bustling city.

Travelers said the London Dungeon was a great way to get a glimpse into the history of the city and were impressed with the quality of acting and special effects. Many enjoyed the rides and other surprises, although some noted it can be frightening for younger children (a minimum age of 12 is recommended). Some also said it was expensive, but discounts are available when tickets are combined with entry to nearby attractions, including Madame Tussauds and the London Eye.

London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

Step inside the London Transport Museum to explore the history of getting around London. Exhibits detail the first London Underground, how the city expanded, Victorian-era transport and much more. Plus, there are multiple hands-on exhibits to keep young ones entertained.

Overall, travelers were pleased with their visits to the museum and found the history fascinating. Others note it's very family-friendly, so you should expect tons of kids during a visit (unless you visit in the late afternoon, when the museum says it's a bit quieter). 

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

The collection here includes works by renowned artists such as Titian, Velazquez and Van Dyck as well as various medieval and Renaissance objects. The collection was assembled in the 18th and 19th centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace and then donated to Great Britain. The permanent collection centers on European paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries and includes notable French paintings and decorative arts from the 18th century. Special exhibits tend to focus on individual artists, such as Frans Hals and Peter Paul Rubens. Before going to see the fine and decorative arts on display in person, you can explore more than 400 items using a free digital guide available from the museum's website .

Art lovers generally find much to enjoy here, and many suggest it merits repeat visits. Some opine that the signs could provide more information about the items on view.

Inner Circle Access of Stonehenge including Bath and Lacock Day Tour from London

(1438 reviews)

from $ 196.44

Tour of London: Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace

(56 reviews)

from $ 88.59

Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London

(1842 reviews)

from $ 19.13

Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms are the underground bunker that Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his war cabinet used to shelter from bomb raids and plot their steps during World War II. The maze-like corridors tell the story of this volatile time period, centering on the larger-than-life leader that Churchill was.

Travelers describe the Churchill War Rooms as fascinating, and more than one traveler calls it a favorite London attraction. Some say that the rooms are much bigger than they had imagined and that people tend to spend a lot of time soaking in the exhibits and information. Others say that the exhibits have a strange layout, which can lead to confusion when trying to follow the sequence of events. Additionally, this popular spot gets crowded, so most museumgoers recommend that visitors get to the Churchill War Rooms early to avoid a long wait.

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10 Best Places To Go in England—And Where to Stay

Stone circles, buzzing cities, and the castle from bridgerton all feature in our list of favorite spots..

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The Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall is Britain’s most southerly point.

Photo by Matt Jessop

From the southern reaches of Cornwall’s craggy coastline to the fells of the Lake District, the variety in England—one of the four nations that make up the United KIngdom—is enchanting. There’s astonishing history in its stone circles and ancient earthworks, some of the world’s most impressive castles and palaces built for kings and queens over the centuries, and plenty of modern culture. These are the best places to go in England to experience it all.

1. Liverpool & Manchester

Manchester and Liverpool are just 35 minutes apart on a train line, making this pair of dynamic northern cities a brilliant twin-center urban break in England. Manchester is all about the people; the residents are proud and the sense of community here is strong—and you only have to look up its mayor, Andy Burnham, to understand why. You can get a feel for the city’s steadfast identity—and its role in democracy and workers’ rights—in the People’s History Museum . Stop for lunch in the trendy Ancoats neighborhood; Rudy’s has the best pizza, while the handsome Edinburgh Castle pub is a great British “boozer.” In Liverpool, music both old and new is the main attraction. Head to the Albert Dock to delve into the world of the Fab Four at The Beatles Story exhibition before taking in a gig in one of the city’s thriving bars. The Dovetale Towers is a favorite among locals.

Where to stay

Book now: The Alan

One of Manchester’s hottest hotels, the Alan is all pared back neutrals and industrial style with a few splashes of clever design. We especially like the terrazzo details in the flooring and bedroom desks.

2. Brighton

Days in Brighton should largely be spent in two places: on the large pebbly beach and Victorian pier where you can play traditional arcade games, ride a merry-go-round, and scoff fish and chips; or in the tangle of pedestrian streets known as the Lanes, with vintage clothing and antiques shops and a smattering of excellent eateries, serving everything from vegan tapas to local oysters and scallops. Don’t miss a mosey around Snoopers Paradise —a fantastic cooperative with 90 different traders inside—before a bite and glass of natural wine at Plateau .

Book now: Drakes Hotel

With seaview suites and some retro decor, Drakes Hotel is a favorite. It’s popular with A-listers, too, from Woody Allen to Cate Blanchett.

The rooftop pool at Thermae Bath Spa offers memorable views of the city.

Courtesy of Visit Bath

Handsome Georgian architecture and Roman history make Bath one of England’s most charming city breaks. Travelers have flocked here for centuries since the Romans built the world-famous baths after discovering hot springs beneath the ground. Tour the baths and have a taste of the mineral-rich waters that still reach the surface here today, then enjoy your own bathing time at the Thermae Bath Spa , which uses the natural springs in its hydrotherapy pools.

Book now: The Roseate Villa Bath

Sitting opposite Henrietta Park, this elegant hotel is a 10-minute walk from the city center and has 21 regal rooms within its handsome stone walls.

4. Birmingham

Birmingham in the West Midlands was a manufacturing hub in the 18th century.

A much-overlooked city, Birmingham has long been one of the U.K.’s most important urban centers. It’s home to Cadbury’s , the British chocolate brand that’s beloved all over the world, and a neighborhood dubbed the Jewellery Quarter, where 40 percent of all British bling is made. (You could even commission your own piece at the likes of James Newman. ) This industrious city is a creative community of proud “Brummies” offering experiences that will help you get beneath the surface: Take a tour of weird and wonderful histories with Kevin Thomas , kayak on the canals , or head to the Custard Factory for delicious food and unique boutiques.

Book now: The Edgbaston

This 20-room hotel is a boujie bolthole with bathtubs in bedrooms and a cracking cocktail bar for predinner drinks. Based in leafy Edgbaston, it’s just a 10-minute cab ride from the city center.

Castle Howard was on film long before Bridgerton , as the setting for the adaptation of Evelyn Waugh’s Brideshead Revisited .

5. Castle Howard

You might recognize the opulent 18th-century Castle Howard from Netflix’s much-loved Bridgerton series; this ostentatious palace played a starring role as Clyvedon Castle. Do as they do in the show and promenade around its manicured gardens to enjoy the exterior of this baroque and Palladian palace before heading inside to explore its grand staterooms, bust-lined corridors, and pre-Raphaelite–style chapel.

Book now: The Hare

A 25-minute drive from the castle is this 12th-century pub with only two bedrooms. People flock here for the inventive tasting menus combining British produce with Asian ingredients like dashi and miso.

6. Avebury Stone Circle

Stonehenge is Britain’s most famous stone circle, but it’s also its busiest. Avoid the crowds and instead beeline for Avebury Henge. It’s hard to grasp the deep history that surrounds the landscape here, but as you place your hands on the enormous slabs of sarsen sandstone that were dug into the ground thousands of years ago, you can at least get a feel for it physically—something you can’t enjoy at nearby Stonehenge. The monument was used in burial ceremonies during the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods and is the largest in the U.K.—so large there are several homes including thatch cottages inside the circle. Walk around its ditches and banks before heading into the Alexander Keiller Museum to see archaeological finds from the region.

Book now: Hill House B&B

Perched atop a steep hill on the edge of the Cotswolds, a half-hour drive from Avebury, Hill House B&B has a pair of luxurious shepherd’s huts with bucolic views.

7. Calke Abbey

Britain’s historic elite might have been considered a better class, but they were not immune from hoarding tendencies, and Calke Abbey is proof. This 16th-century manor house is rather handsome from the outside, but inside it’s a more of an “unstately home,” as described by the National Trust, thanks to the sheer amount of stuff crammed within its walls. Wander its rooms—packed with curiosities from a vast shell collection or eerie children’s toys—before a ramble across the grounds to the nearby Milking Parlour , where Tollgate Brewery serves its best pints alongside excellent pizzas.

Book now: Breedon Hall

Stay in Georgian style in the 18th-century Breedon Hall, where its five bedrooms feature period dressers and four-poster beds.

8. Lake District National Park

If it’s walking and big views you’re after, you shouldn’t miss a visit to the Lake District on your trip to England. This is by far one of the U.K.’s most spectacular landscapes, where mountains (known locally as fells) rise up above a network of large lakes. On Ullswater, you can ride the Steamers across the water to break up hikes on the Ullswater Way (take a boat from Glenridding to Howtown, walk the lakeshore to Pooley Bridge, then return via boat to Glenridding), or head further into the national park to tackle peaks like Scafell Pike (978 meters/3,200 feet) and the Old Man of Coniston (802 meters/2,635 feet). The lovely town of Keswick has appealing pubs and restaurants serving British classics, like Cumbrian sausage and mash or roast dinners, and shops stocking locally made crafts, from candles to handmade ceramics.

Book now: Another Place

Right on the shores of Ullswater, Another Place has bright and bold bedrooms or cosy, country-style shepherd’s huts. The Rampsbeck restaurant serves excellent regional produce.

9. Northumberland’s coastal castles

The British have a history of building vast castles, and the Northumberland coast, in the northeast of England, has some of the most beguiling. Spend a day castle hopping by road, starting from Warkworth , where a 12th-century ruin stands above the River Coquet less than a mile from the coast, and finishing on Holy Island—only accessible at low tide —where Lindisfarne Castle towers above the ocean. In between, you can stop at Dunstanburgh’s ruins from the 14th century and head inside the still privately-owned Bamburgh Castle , the most enchanting of them all, especially when admiring its towering red sandstone ramparts on the vast beach below.

Book now: Beadnell Towers

Claw-foot and copper bathtubs in the bedrooms at the 18-bedroom Beadnell Towers will restore your weary legs after long walks on the beaches on the Northumberland coast.

10. The Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall

Tiny sandy coves, gnarly rock formations beneath the cliffs and, in summer, a host of wildflowers on the coastal path make the Lizard Peninsula one of England’s most spectacular coastal spots. Come to hike the coast path around Lizard Point—the most southerly part of mainland England—and take a dip in the emerald seas around Kynance Cove. Scones with jam and cream at Wavecrest Café on Lizard Point are essential consumption.

Book now: Polurrian on the Lizard

This storied hotel—with both World War and Hollywood history—is right on the beach and has bright, contemporary bedrooms with sea views.

23+ Ideas for New England Vacations With Kids

W e are so lucky to live in Massachusetts because there are so many fantastic places to visit in New England which are located just a short car ride away. We can drive in one direction to see some of the best sandy beaches in the United States, and we can drive in a different direction to see beautiful mountains. There are so many great places for New England vacations with kids – including cities and beach towns.

With so many vacation options, you could easily do something different each season. There are so many different options for family fun – outdoor activities, hiking trails, museums, beaches, and much more. This past winter break, we spent our break visiting Boston, Portland, and New Haven – all just a quick drive away from each other.

Whether you live in New England or are planning to visit a few different locations during your New England family vacation, here are some places to go in New England with kids, along with some ideas of attractions to visit.

If you are specifically looking for New England family resorts , check out this post. We have also reviewed some of the best places to visit in New England on this site individually.

Note: We experienced some of these New England vacations and attractions in New England during media trips or hosted stays/media rates and have also paid our own way many times. Affiliate links are included – if you click/purchase through an affiliate link, we may make a small commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own.

Places to Go in New England With Kids: New England Family Vacation Ideas

We don’t seem to go to Maine nearly enough, and it’s really just a quick drive from the Massachusetts border. Every time I visit, I just love it. Kittery, Maine , just over the New Hampshire border, offers lots of great outlets as well as delicious seafood restaurants.

Kittery is also right near Portsmouth, New Hampshire, which is another great waterfront destination. It’s easy to visit both on the same trip. It may seem surprising that the three states are all located just a few minutes from each other, but this is the case right at the coastline.

For one of the best summer Maine family vacations, visit the all-inclusive Migis Lodge , located on Sebago Lake. It’s a luxury family vacation spot that is rustic and fun. Families return year after year, and with good reason, because it’s a special place. We enjoyed a media stay there a while back and my kids still talk about it.

Of course, you can’t miss the original LL Bean store in Freeport, Maine . There are other outlet shops in Freeport as well, as well as a beautiful state park. It’s a great place to visit for back-to-school or holiday shopping.

For a fun vacation at any time of year, visit Portland, Maine with kids , where you’ll enjoy delicious food, great shopping beautiful views, and fun attractions. Although you may think of it as a summer vacation spot, we usually visit during the winter and still love it. You’ll want to have at least two nights there so that you can enjoy the restaurants and attractions.

Portland has some great museums, especially for families. While you’ll probably need to drive to those locations, the downtown Old Port area is extremely walkable. You can also take the Amtrak Downeaster train from Boston to Portland.

When visiting Portland, you can take a quick trip to the beautiful Portland Head Light , which is located in Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth. While you can’t go up in the lighthouse, it’s beautiful to see. A little bit further away is the Nubble Lighthouse in York, Maine.

Visiting during the summer? The quintessential beach town of Ogunquit offers fun shops, delicious restaurants, and a fantastic beach. Stay at one of the nearby hotels and walk everywhere for the best experience. There is quite a bit of traffic in the summer, so it’s best to walk when you can.

Acadia National Park and the nearby town of Bar Harbor are also popular Maine vacation spots – especially in the summer.

If you like to ski, there are some great options in Maine. Popular ski resorts in Maine include Sunday River, Sugarloaf, and Shawnee Peak.

Find hotels in Maine on TripAdvisor .

Vermont 

Even if you aren’t a skier, there are so many places to go with kids within Vermont and so many things to do in Vermont . We absolutely love visiting Smugglers’ Notch Resort . Although it’s a ski resort, it’s also one of the best places to visit in Vermont in the summer.

The kids really enjoy the day camp, and my husband and I spend the afternoons exploring the area (including the Boyden Valley Winery). It’s also a fantastic spot to visit in the winter – with lots of skiing for the whole family.

Down the road from Smugglers’ Notch is Stowe, Vermont, where we can recommend two family-friendly resorts – Stoweflake and the Lodge at Spruce Peak . It’s also a popular place to ski.

In Waterbury, on the way into Stow, you can stop at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory, as well as the Cold Hollow Cider Mill. Don’t miss the factory tour at Ben and Jerry’s, which is definitely worth visiting at least once.

We also really enjoyed our visit to the Montshire Museum of Science, located over the NH border in Norwich, Vermont. We visited there on our way to Smugglers’ Notch from Boston.

Other ski resorts in Vermont include Killington, Sugarbush, Jay Peak , and Okemo Mountain.

Find hotels in Vermont on TripAdvisor .

New Hampshire

I’ve enjoyed family vacations in New Hampshire since I was a child, visiting with my parents. It’s not a huge state, but there are so many things to do in New Hampshire with kids.

My family recently enjoyed our stay at the Mountain Club at Loon in Lincoln, NH. While on that side of the famous, scenic Kancamagus Highway , be sure to stop at Clark’s Trading Post – home to a fun, unique trained bear show. In the summer, you can also visit Whale’s Tale Water Park.

When visiting Lincoln, NH with kids , another popular spot in the area is Franconia Notch State Park.

On the other side of the highway, within the White Mountains, you’ll find North Conway, NH, home to lots of premium outlets (and NO sales tax). Enjoy the drive – it’s absolutely beautiful!

We’ve stayed at several hotels in North Conway New Hampshire and enjoyed our stays at the North Conway Grand , and the Residence Inn . If you have little kids, be sure to visit one of the best attractions for kids in New Hampshire – Story Land in Glen, NH . Santa’s Village in Jefferson, NH is also worth the trip.

In the winter, Attitash is a great family ski resort. There are so many things for kids to do in New Hampshire .

Another popular New England vacation spot with kids is Lake Winnipesaukee. There are various motels, inns, hotels, and home rentals on the lake.

If visiting New Hampshire without kids, you’ll find plenty of quaint bed and breakfasts. Some are kid-friendly, but you’d definitely want to check that before visiting.

Find hotels in New Hampshire on TripAdvisor .

Rhode Island

My home state of Rhode Island may be small, but it has a lot to offer. The capital city, Providence , is just an hour from Boston and has quite a few family-friendly attractions.

On weekend nights in the summer, you can enjoy WaterFire , a performance work of art. WaterFire is one of the more unique outdoor shows to experience. It takes place in Providence, the capital city of RI. Providence is a fun place to explore – while it’s a small city, it offers a lot of things to see.

Our top vacation choice in Rhode Island is Newport , which is just a quick ride from Providence. We recommend a stay at the Hotel Viking , which is located within walking distance of many Newport restaurants and shops.

Don’t miss the kids’ tour at the Breakers mansion , located along the famed Cliff Walk. There are also plenty of beaches in Newport and the surrounding area, as well as Fort Adams State Park. If you love tennis, be sure to stop in for a visit at the International Tennis Hall of Fame, located right in Newport.

For a nice day trip, consider taking the ferry over to Block Island, which is part of Rhode Island. It’s a great day trip, and a beautiful, unspoiled area of the state.

Find Rhode Island hotels on TripAdvisor .

Massachusetts

I’ve lived in Massachusetts for over 20 years now, and still find fun places to explore in the state. Of course, the capital city of Boston is a must-visit, especially in the warmer months. There’s so much to do right in the city, including the Boston Museum of Science, Fenway Park, and the New England Aquarium.

In the summer, don’t miss a trip to the Boston Harbor Islands , a quick ferry ride away from the Boston waterfront. Several different islands can be explored, so check out the list in advance. It’s a great option for a day trip.

Boston is a great destination to learn more about US history. Walking tours (or self-guided tours) are available on the Freedom Trail, and it is definitely worth doing. As you’d expect, these outdoor activities are best in the summer months. July and August are especially busy in the Boston area.

See more to do in Boston with kids here .

Cape Cod and the Islands , including the Cape Cod National Seashore, are another beautiful New England vacation spot. There are several hotels we recommend in Cape Cod Massachusetts – the Sea Crest Beach Hotel in Falmouth, Ocean Edge in Brewster, and the Harbor Hotel in Provincetown. Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are also absolutely beautiful in the summer.

While you could visit Cape Cod for the day, we recommend staying there for a longer trip. You’ll want to enjoy the beach, eat seafood outdoors, try some great ice cream, and just enjoy the relaxed vacation atmosphere.

On your way down to the Cape, you can also stop in Plymouth, MA to check out Plimoth Patuxet Museums, which is definitely a must-do for history buffs. This is an easy stop on your drive – you won’t have to stay in Plymouth overnight.

North of Boston is a different cape. Cape Ann is where you’ll find many family-friendly coastal towns , such as Rockport and Gloucester. Also on the North shore is Newburyport, MA, as well as Salem .

All four are great places to shop, eat, and explore the waterfront. You can also do whale-watching tours leaving Gloucester. There are some beautiful beaches in this area of the state. If you want to visit one of the Gloucester beaches in season, be sure to book your parking in advance.

Springfield, MA, located in the Western part of the state, is another spot that offers great attractions for families. Basketball lovers will want to visit the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. There’s also a new Dr. Seuss Museum, located in Springfield.

Find hotels in Massachusetts on TripAdvisor .

Connecticut

Last winter, we visited Mystic, Connecticut, which offers several great things to do with kids , including the Mystic Aquarium and Mystic Seaport. Stay overnight so you can spend much of the day at both attractions. During our trip, we stayed at the Hilton Mystic , which is right across the street from the aquarium.

This winter, we spent two nights in New Haven, which is about midway between Boston and NYC . We stayed at the Study at Yale , and enjoyed visiting the Yale Museum of Art and the Peabody Museum of Natural History . It’s a surprising city with loads of culture and delicious restaurants.

Find hotels in Connecticut on TripAdvisor .

What is your favorite destination for a New England vacation?

The post 23+ Ideas for New England Vacations With Kids appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

The best viewing conditions for the 2024 total solar eclipse will be in New England

Sky enthusiasts in northern vermont, new hampshire, and maine are in for a front-row seat to the total eclipse, by danielle noyes • published april 5, 2024 • updated on april 6, 2024 at 11:44 pm.

The buzz is deafening: a total solar eclipse will grace the continental US for the first time since 2017; this is a rare chance to witness a celestial marvel. Your plans are likely set, but fingers are crossed for great viewing conditions. And the fantastic news is that the forecast for New England’s clear skies is unchanged, putting us literally in the best spot for viewing across the country.

Sky enthusiasts in northern Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine are in for a front-row seat to the total eclipse. For a stunning two to three minutes, the moon will devour the sun, plunging the day into an eerie twilight. This brief moment of totality will reveal the sun's corona, its wispy outer layer, in all its glory.

In the path of totality:

• How dark is it going to be?  The sky will darken dramatically, similar to twilight. This can last several minutes, so get ready for an otherworldly experience!
• Will it get colder?  As the moon hides the sun, there might be a slight dip in temperature, by a few degrees. Pack a light jacket in case!
• Will I see stars?  For a brief moment, you might be able to! The darkness will be similar to dusk, allowing a peek at some brighter stars.
• What's up with my dog?  Animals may become confused by the sudden darkness and act strangely for a short time. Don't worry, it's usually temporary.

Get Boston local news, weather forecasts, lifestyle and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC Boston’s newsletters.

Safety first!

Never attempt to look directly at the sun. The sun's intense rays can permanently damage your eyesight. To safely observe the eclipse, use certified eclipse glasses specifically designed for this purpose. These glasses filter out harmful solar radiation.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience under the eclipsed sun & don’t forget to share your pictures & experiences with us here.

More on the total solar eclipse

NH officials urge patience, tell visitors to arrive early and stay late for Monday's eclipse

New England prepares for Monday's solar eclipse

Solar eclipse in New England: Traffic, lodging, events and what else to know

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​​10 Best Places To Visit In London​

Apr 11, 2024

​10 Best Places To Visit In London

​Reigning supreme as the most popular city in the UK, the capital of England is famous for its rich culture and heritage, if you’re planning to visit London, here’s a compilation of the 10 best things to see. Read to know more.​​​

Credit: IBM

Buckingham Palace

Crowned as the ‘home of the monarch’, Buckingham Palace is an epitome of regal grandeur and is marked as a place of royal celebrations. Take guided tours to explore the palace state rooms and gardens on a quick day trip.

Credit: royal-collection-trust

Tower Bridge

From the stunning panoramic views to iconic glass floors, Tower Bridge has got it all covered. You can discover one of London’s hidden gems, the magnificent Victorian engine rooms and the breathtaking views of hidden marvels.

Credit: GVA-lighting

London's Eye

With the title of the fourth-largest Ferris wheel in the world, London’s Eye draws millions of tourists. Its 32 climate-controlled passenger capsules will keep you cosy inside as you soar above the city’s skyline.

Credit: conde-nast-traveller

Madame Tussauds

Who doesn’t dream of getting a selfie with your favourite actors? Well, you can get up close with over 150 lifelike celebrity wax figures in Madame Tussauds. You can explore the famous royal palace, chamber of horrors, get clicked with eerie likeness of actors and much more.

Credit: Madame-Tussauds

Dubbed as ‘People’s Park’, you can explore spectacular views, lush greenery and wildlife, famous for hosting London’s biggest live events, Hyde Park is a perfect playground for adventurous minds. Whether you’re a youthful 12 or a high-spirited 50, Park ensures playgrounds for each age group.

Credit: Istock

Warner Bros

Explore the world of Harry Potter and the wonders of the wizarding world with the breathtaking sets, original costumes, authentic props, and the special effects that made Harry and his friends fly.

Credit: Bright-Lights-Big-Cities

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Kensington palace.

​From the birthplace of Queen Victoria to the abode of young royals, explore the king’s state apartments, the room of Princess Victoria, and the untold stories of the workers.​

Credit: House-and-Gardens

Westminster Abbey

Marvel of amazing architecture, Westminster Abbey is a magnificent place of worship, honoured as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The final resting place of 30 kings and queens, you can explore the poet's corner, the graceful lady chapel along with the memorials and royal tombs.

Credit: Trainline

London Dungeons

With the special effects, scenes, rides and amazing cast of theatrical actors, you can explore 19 interactive shows, 20 live actors, 360-degree sets with thrilling storytelling, 2 breathtaking underground grounds and much more in London Dungeon.

Credit: The-Dungeons

Tower Of London

The Tower of London, officially His Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, is a historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames in central London

Credit: World-Strides

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Often-ridiculed UK seaside city is one of Time Out’s best places to visit in 2024

• Hope Brotherton
• Published : 12:17, 7 Dec 2023
• Updated : 14:25, 7 Dec 2023
• Published : Invalid Date,

A SEASIDE city in the north of England has been named one of the best places to visit in the UK in 2024.

Time Out has named Hull in East Yorkshire as one of next year's best places to visit in 2024.

A team of UK travel experts from Time Out have picked the winning destination based on factors like accessibility and cost.

Included in the top 15 destinations are the Isles of Sicily, London , Belfast, Newcastle, and Lewes.

Bristol was named the best place to visit in the UK in 2024, with its bustling nightlife, cultural attractions, and picture-perfect streets to thank for its newly-appointed accolade.

Over the years, some tourists heading to the northern city have ridiculed Hull and its attractions

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Tiny UK village home to a famous Hollywood celeb often spotted down the pub

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According to the Hull Daily Mail , visitors to the city have left scathing reviews describing one attraction as a "tragic mess".

While Hull's stereotype hasn't always been glowing, it was named the UK City of Culture in 2017.

And the northern city nabbed the second spot in Time Out's list thanks to its "influx of new gay bars and clubs".

In their announcement, Time Out wrote: " Next on the Time Out list comes Hull, which has become a surprising capital for the UK’s LGBTQ+ community in 2023, with an influx of new gay bars and clubs including Monroe’s, Unit 49, and Cherry’s in the city’s 'Freedom Quarter'.

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"In addition, there is a picturesque old town plus lots of indie art galleries."

Earlier this year, Hull was also named as the UK city with the cheapest pints .

According to hotel company  Accor , pints can be purchased for as little as £3.33 in Hull.

Located in a dramatic building overlooking the Humber estuary, The Deep is one of the country's best aquariums .

The attraction is listed as the top thing to do on Hull's  TripAdvisor  list and has won plenty of awards over the last 15 years.

Inside the aquarium, visitors will be able to see sharks , turtles, penguins, and the UK's only Green sawfish.

But the Deep isn't the city's only famous landmark, there's also the Humber Bridge , which holds the record as the longest single-span suspension bridge that can be walked or cycled over in the world.

Other local attractions include the Streetlife Museum of  Transport , a free exhibit that transports visitors to the 1940s, and the East Riding Museum of  Archaeology .

There's also Hull Minster, which is the largest parish church in England by floor area.

There are also three beaches nearby, including Tunstall Beach , Mappleton Beach, and Hornsea Beach.

The latter is a blue flag beach near the  UK's best chippy , Whitehead's Fish & Chips.

Chiara Wilkinson, Features Editor at Time Out UK said: "We’re over the moon to share our Time Out list of the best places to visit in the UK in 2024.

"These destinations have buzzy new openings, excellent food and drink offerings, and pinch-me-moment landscapes.

"With its vibrant cultural scene set to get even bigger next year, Bristol was a deserving winner – but it was also great to see underrated destinations like Hull, Wrexham and Falmouth take their spots in the top 15."

Meanwhile, one German tourist loves Hull so much he’s visited 32 times.

Rainer Schmidt has been to the city more than 30 times, returning year after year to eat English breakfasts, meet friendly northerners, and take in the  Yorkshire  countryside.

Meanwhile, this city in the UK has the  most beautiful street in Europe  and Gordon Ramsay 's favourite curry house.

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Last year, Time Out named Eastbourne as the best place to visit in 2023 .

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