places to visit uk countryside

• Work with Me

12 Beautiful English Countryside Getaways to Enjoy in 2024

Sometime’s I become so preoccupied with exploring the world that I forget about all the beautiful English Countryside getaway locations right on my doorstep.

The English countryside is often, sadly, overlooked. Visitors from abroad flock to London , stay a few days before moving onto the rest of Europe. But they are missing the best bit!

Whilst England is famed for its pretty countryside with rolling hills, forests and rivers, the charming villages themselves are well worth a visit. There is so much history in England and old buildings, castles and churches galore to reflect this.

The English are notoriously a friendly bunch with a cracking dry sense of humour (if a little eccentric at times…)

Ok, full disclosure; I am English though living in Wales so I may be a tad biased when I tell you the English are the most friendly people worldwide. I’m sure there are some facts out there somewhere to back me up..?!

My favourite thing about an English countryside getaway is the multitude of cafes for afternoon tea, the beautiful walks and spending evenings in a cosy old pub, warming myself by a roaring fire and tucking into some hearty pub food.

So if I’ve convinced you to explore beyond London next time, here are 12 beautiful English Countryside getaways suggested by travel bloggers to inspire your trip to rural England!

But first one of my own favourite places…

** Pssst, this article may contain affiliate links. If you have no idea what this means, click here and everything will be explained!**

What you can expect from this article...

• 1 English Countryside Getaway to Monmouth
• 2 English Countryside Getaway to The Lake District
• 3 English Countryside Getaway to Exmoor
• 4 English Countryside Getaways in The New Forest
• 5 English Countryside Getaway to Hambledon in Hampshire
• 6 English Countryside Getaway to Wensleydale in The Yorkshire Dales
• 7 English Countryside Getaway to Lacock, Wiltshire
• 8 English Countryside Getaways in Northumberland, North England
• 9 English Countryside Getaways to The South Downs
• 10 English Countryside Getaways to Teesdale, The North Pennines
• 11 English Countryside Getaways to The Cotswolds
• 12 English Countryside Getaways to The Peak District

English Countryside Getaway to Monmouth

Well, you could argue that this is a Welsh countryside getaway as in truth, Monmouth borders both England and Wales. It’s the town where I grew up and recently I heard it was Britains happiest town according to Capitol radio!

It’s no wonder why really. Monmouth is one of those places where community spirit is really strong. There’s always so much going on whether that be a free music festival or a country fair. The pubs are always bustling and lively and there are plenty of cafes for a cream tea or two.

Monmouth is also home to the only remaining fortified medieval bridge in the UK making it a popular place for history buffs to visit. Read more about Monmouth in my  Monmouth Visitors Guide .

• Bristol City Guide by a Local
• Cambridge City Guide by a Local
• Monmouth Visitors Guide
• A Weekend in Stroud
• Brighton weekend guide
• The Ultimate Europe Bucket List – 30 reasons to visit Europe
• Get a free £25 Airbnb coupon

Over to the other bloggers…

English Countryside Getaway to The Lake District

By Kathi Kamleitner

English Countryside Getaway to Exmoor

By Suzanne Easton

Exmoor is located on the border of Somerset and Devon and is one of the smaller National Parks in England.

It is a beautiful area to explore with deep wooded valleys, streams and high moorland.  It was used as the inspiration for the Lorna Doone book by RD Blackmoore and still has a romantic wilderness feel.

Exmoor reaches the coast with the seaside town of Minehead being on the boundary of the national park, perfect for a beach walk or supplies before heading away from the town.

One of our favourite places is Tarr Steps.  An ancient clapper bridge with beautiful walks and wild swimming in the river during the summer months.  Nearby is Liscombe Farm with gorgeous dairy ice cream from the cows that you see grazing near the river.

Exmoor is also known for its deer rut.  High on the moorland in the autumn months, the stags collect their hinds and congregate showing great displays of their strength, fighting other stags and generally being aggressive and loud.

Staying on Exmoor is really special as it has Dark Skies status and the stars really do shine on the moors at night.  We love the Dunkery Beacon Hotel , indulgence but worth every penny.

English Countryside Getaways in The New Forest

English countryside getaway to hambledon in hampshire.

By Kelly Mongan

With its stunning vineyard and charming village pub, there’s no better place for a weekend away than Hambledon.

Located in Hampshire, this town is often referred to as “the cradle of cricket”, since it is where the modern cricket rules were first played (head to the Bat & Ball pub if you’re a cricket fan!).

Hambledon is located in South Downs National Park and therefore offers stunning countryside walks, through the vineyard and cabbage fields, or even up Butser Hill.

It’s also a Dark Sky zone, meaning you’ll be treated to the most wonderful view of the stars at night.

If you want to truly experience the English countryside, there is no better place to stay than Wriggly Tin Shepherds Huts . Wriggly Tin offers glamping in its finest form and is just a ten-minute walk from Hambledon Vineyard.

At the vineyard, it’s possible to do a tour and taste their award-winning sparkling wine.

If you’re looking to explore more of the area, Winchester is an easy day trip, as is Arundel Castle. Or, for walking/cycling trips, you have the whole of South Downs National Park at your disposal!

English Countryside Getaway to Wensleydale in The Yorkshire Dales

By Sarah Poitras

This summer, we spent four days in the Yorkshire Dales for our first English countryside getaway. We based ourselves in Wensleydale for our Yorkshire Dales holiday .

If you like walking, Wensleydale is a great place to visit in the English countryside. You’ll be treated to rolling green hills, picturesque stone fences, and of course tons of sheep. And it’s a great place for people of all abilities as there are many different walks of varying difficulty levels.

There are also castles! We particularly enjoyed our visit to Bolton Castle, which is quite well preserved and has beautiful grounds to explore. It would also make for a good family outing (we saw a lot of kids enjoying themselves).

We based ourselves in two towns, Hawes and Masham, for their locations and for their local culinary delights. Hawes is home to Wensleydale Creamery which makes truly delicious cheese. And Masham has not one but two local breweries: Theakston Brewery and Black Sheep Brewery.

In Hawes, we stayed at Spring Bank House , a traditional B&B, and in Masham, we stayed at The Bay Horse , a traditional pub. Both served tasty and hearty breakfasts and had friendly and helpful owners. We would highly recommend both if you’re looking for places to stay in Wensleydale.

Read More | The ultimate Yorkshire bucket list

English Countryside Getaway to Lacock, Wiltshire

By Chandrima Chakraborty

If you’re looking for some beautiful English countryside getaways, the village of Lacock definitely needs to be on your list.

Located in the English county of Wiltshire (around 30 minutes from the city of Bath by car), this little village will transport you back in time, to almost 200 years ago. It’s maintained entirely by the National Trust. And mind you, it’s not a museum. It’s very much a functioning village.

Take a stroll down its many alleys and admire the cute traditional cottages in the village. There’s also an old tithe barn, church, and workhouse.

Here you can see the honour system still in use. Residents lay out their homemade jams, marmalades, buns, and scones outside their homes – unguarded and unsupervised. You’re expected to take what you want and leave the payment right there.

If you feel hungry, stop for a bite at one of its cute little bakeries or cafes. Also, don’t forget to check out the Fox Talbot Museum and the Lacock Abbey (especially if you’re a Harry Potter fan).

The village has also been a filming location for many popular movies and TV shows including Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, and BBC’s Pride and Prejudice.

Lacock can easily be covered on a day trip from London . You might even want to combine it with a visit to Bath and Stonehenge like we did.

English Countryside Getaways in Northumberland, North England

English countryside getaways to the south downs.

Picture proper English countryside and there’s a good chance you think of bright yellow flowering fields, rolling green hills and winding tracks. That’s the South Downs.

This enormous Sussex and Hampshire national park is a prime picnicking spot, with great cycling and walking – and all just 20 minutes from the bustle of Brighton and Hove.

Come for the next eclipse or to stargaze (it’s a Dark Sky Park) or pop over on a sunny day to soak up the country air and get away from it all. Spotting wildlife will have you keen to stay and there’s a cracking pub, The Devils Dyke, where you can refuel with good food and drink.

For day trips, you shouldn’t miss exploring colourful spots on the South Coast like Brighton , Eastbourne and Worthing, which will also offer great hotels. The Courtlands Hotel in Hove is a great option for those looking to splash out, while The Brighton Breeze Hotel is somewhere budget that I have stayed and can recommend.

English Countryside Getaways to Teesdale, The North Pennines

By Sarah Carter

Getaway to the little known Teesdale – part of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The River Tees flows down through the dale, providing stunning waterfalls at Cauldron Snout, High Force and Low Force, with spectacular and easy walks along her banks.

The gateway to this glorious dale is the market town of Barnard Castle, named after the castle of the same name which was built in the 12 th century. Famous visitors to the town have included author Charles Dickens and landscape painter JMW Turner.

Here you’ll find great places to stay, including the friendly and welcoming 17 th century Old Well Inn , which backs onto the castle walls.

There are other fabulous cosy pubs and the magnificent Bowes Museum which boasts links to the Queen Mother. Explore the famous Butter Market or Market Cross, now serving as a beleaguered traffic island, but which was once the town jail!

There are great walks – a short 6km round trip takes you between the two main waterfalls further up the dale from Low Force to High Force and back. This is a stunning area of England in which to take a break, no matter what the time of year!

English Countryside Getaways to The Cotswolds

By Emily Cole

The Cotswolds is full of fantastic countryside; think thatched, honey coloured cottages nestling in the hollows of gently rolling hills, perfect for country walks.

There’s something for everyone in the Cotswolds. The most famous villages are Castle Combe, Bibury and Bourton on the Water, which are usually voted among the prettiest villages in the UK.

The Cotswold Way runs for 100 miles along the top of the hills linking Chipping Campden in the north of the region to Bath in the south.  Any section of this walk gives fantastic views and access to quaint towns.  Broadway Tower is a highlight along the route.

You can also discover a wealth of history in the region.  Sudeley Castle is a former royal palace and lies half in ruins, half still lived-in stately home.  Blenheim Palace is on the edge of the Cotswolds and is one of the most fantastic buildings in the UK. Cogges Manor Farm is a historic farm which was used in the filming of Downton Abbey.

There are numerous places to stay in the Cotswolds, although choosing a central location such as Barnsley House near Cirencester will allow you to get to both the north and south of the Cotswolds in less than an hour.

The Cotswolds are only a couple of hours away from London, making the region a perfect weekend getaway.

English Countryside Getaways to The Peak District

Just about an hour outside of Manchester lies the Peak District, a landscape like no other in Britain.

You will find rolling hills, moorland plateaus, and steep-sided deep dales. When you pair the amazing landscape with quaint villages housing amazing places to eat and drink, market towns, and historic houses, you are bound to have a vacation like no other.

Many people visiting the Peak District enjoy going out for a day hike that ends with a proper meal and ale at one of the many historic pubs you will find along the way.

Besides just hiking, you can go spelunking in a cavern, cycle the windy roads or even take a cable car up the famous Heights of Abraham.

If you don’t quite fancy the outdoor activities, there are plenty of villages to stop over and shop till you drop.

There are also plenty of charming bed and breakfasts to choose from if you would like to stay the night. While we were visiting we found a quaint little Airbnb to stay at where we were able to cook a full English fry up in the morning!

With everything the Peak District has to offer, it is definitely a must for anyone looking to visit a charming English countryside!

• City breaks for couples in Europe
• 80 things to do in England.
• 25 worldwide adventure bucket list experiences
• Things to do in Stroud

Get my FREE ‘Travel More’ Crash Course

Get my 19-page guide packed with my best resources and travel hacks to help you travel more for less…

Learn how to double your leave.

Learn how to save money on flights, car hire, food & drink, currency and get FREE accommodation.

Learn how to travel even if you have commitments like mortgages, pets and a family.

Learn how to meet other people to travel with if you are a solo traveller.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Please Share This Share this content

• Opens in a new window

You Might Also Like

Visiting london in winter – travel tips from a local, visit monmouth – your guide to this charming welsh market town, the ultimate europe bucket list – 30 reasons to visit europe, leave a reply cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Adventures of Alice

English Countryside: The 10 Most Beautiful Destinations

Sharing is caring!

England is a wonderful country with so many different landscapes to explore. But you won’t just find the most beautiful English countryside in obvious places (like the Lake District), but rather all over the island. England has a lot to offer. It’s a great place to explore if you’re looking for some peace, tranquillity, and beautiful nature.

But it’s not just walking in the woodland that you can do in the English countryside. There are also historic sites, scenic cliff trails, delicious food at country pubs, and quaint villages brimming with charm.

If you are looking for an escape from city life or just want to experience something new, then this article will give you all the information you need to know about what makes the beautiful British countryside so wonderful.

🡲 Book cheap airline tickets and accommodations with Booking.com to save SO much money on travel. And, don’t forget your eSim and travel insurance !

Where is The Most Beautiful Countryside in England?

It’s all around the country. You can find beautiful countryside in England everywhere. From Cornwall to Cambridgeshire , there is stunning scenery across all four of England’s corners .

How To Get to The English Countryside

You also don’t have to travel far from the large cities to reach some greenery. In most cases, you can get to the English countryside within a couple of hours, and there are great public transport links too .

The train travels from London to Edinburgh , branches out to all major cities, and stops at plenty of other towns and villages in between. The bus links are pretty good too, although they’re slightly slower. They’ll also likely drop you off at a more central location and you’ll be able to reach more remote destinations than the trains.

The Most Beautiful Countryside Getaways in England

So, what is the most beautiful English countryside? These are a few top picks for a little slice of remote, beautiful England.

1. The Lake District

If you’re looking for mountains, lakes, and beautiful scenery all in one place then this is the ideal destination. The most popular part of the Lake District includes places like Keswick, Windermere, Ambleside, and Grasmere.

The whole of the Lake District was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. After visiting this natural beauty, you really won’t be surprised that it’s considered one of England’s greatest treasures. 

You’ll find rolling landscapes, sweeping lakes, and picturesque villages. It’s the perfect place to get away and surround yourself with breathtaking scenery instead of a busy office building!

What to do there:

The Lake District is most famous for its breathtaking hikes , cycling trails, and a plethora of outdoor activities. If you love to keep active, then you’ll have no shortage of things to do. You can go for a leisurely stroll or walk around one of the District’s beautiful lakes.

Also, take in the views and explore nearby villages, hike up mountainsides, or cycle through valleys with hills on either side. There is so much to do that it’s easy to spend most days exploring natural beauty.

Where to stay:

If you want to stay overnight, there are plenty of hotels and B&Bs in the Lake District. You’ll find most bookings have been made months in advance, so be sure to book early. A few top hotels are the Beech Hill Hotel and Spa and The Wild Boar.

🡺 Discover the best places to stay in the Lake District! 🡸

2. Cornwall

Of course, Cornwall deserves a spot on this list. It is well known for being one of the most beautiful countryside in England. The coastal area is blessed with sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs overlooking crashing waves below.

There’s no shortage of wildlife either including seals lounging on the shore and oystercatchers wading in the water. The most popular part of Cornwall is around Penzance, with St Ives not far behind. But you’ll find beautiful stretches of coastline all over this county.

What to do:

Cornwall is a paradise for walkers who want to explore dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views. Most of the coastline is easily accessible with well-maintained paths. There are also plenty of options for boat trips along its coast.

It’s a fantastic place to explore by bike as many off-road trails provide access to beautiful villages in the area. But you’ll need some stamina if climbing hills or going over mountains is more your thing. 

For history buffs, Cornwall is steeped in myth. You’ll find castle ruins where King Authur was said to have lived and many ancient stones and megalithic sites to explore.

St Ives and Penzance are the most popular for accommodation in Cornwall, so naturally, they’ll also be the busiest and the most expensive. For a few affordable options, The Land’s End Hotel and Hotel Penzance are great choices. But there’s no shortage of choices depending on what you’re looking for. Be sure to book in advance as this area gets very busy during holiday periods.

🡺 Discover the best places to stay in Cornwall! 🡸

3. Peak District

If you’re looking for a spot with beautiful hills and green pastures, the Peak District will be right up your street. Most famous for its rolling landscapes, it’s home to many of England’s most historic manor houses too, so it’s perfect if you want to take in some rural English charm. 

There are also plenty of opportunities for exploring this area by bike or on foot. You can hike popular trails like Mam Tor or Kinder Scout or cycle to pretty villages along historic routes. With a wide range of activities, you won’t run out of things to explore in the Peak District.

One great thing about exploring this area is that there’s lots of wildlife. You’ll be able to spot animals like red kites soaring high overhead with their large wingspans and forked tails or deer grazing on green hillsides.

The most popular areas for walking include Edale Valley, Mam Tor Ridge, and Kinder Scout (where you can admire iconic views).

Dark Peak Forest is also lovely, and ancient woodland trees stand tall beside flowing waters from nearby rivers. The surprisingly remote Dovedale has some interesting rock formations carved into its valley walls by years of water erosion.

If walking is more your thing then head towards one of its picturesque villages. Monsal Dale (a National Trust property), Edale, or Castleton offer idyllic walks through scenic countryside as well as lovely small towns.

There are plenty of hotels and B&Bs dotted all over the Peak District, so you won’t have any trouble finding accommodation. The most popular villages to stay in in the Peak District are Edale, Castleton, and Buxton. Robin Hood Farm B&B is a great place to stay.

🡺 Discover the best places to stay in the Peak District! 🡸

4. Cotswolds

Famous for some of the most beautiful villages in England , the Cotswolds has some of the most beautiful UK countryside. The Cotswolds is also a pretty large area – it covers the counties of Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, and Worcestershire.

It’s most famous for its rolling green hills, and traditional thatched cottages in idyllic villages like Bibury, Stow on the Wold, and Castle Combe. There are also plenty of historic market towns including Chipping Campden and Cirencester.

One of the most popular things to do here is to simply explore these beautiful old English towns on foot. You’ll pass chocolate box cottages, tiny market towns, cobbled streets, and old stone bridges crossing little streams. The entire area looks like it’s been plucked out of a fairytale.

In summer, you’ll be able to see the Insta-famous lavender fields in bloom. In autumn you’ll see trees turning leaves to golds, reds, and oranges.

There are also plenty of tours around this area like the Stonehenge tour which will allow you to marvel at England’s curious stone circle. You can even explore Harry Potter film sets like Lalock National Trust.

Cotswolds has a range of accommodation options – from quaint little country cottages and hotels with views along the River Wye or through green fields in Elton, Bibury ( the Bull Hotel is a great choice here), and Chipping Campden. The Courtyard Cirencester is a great self-catering option.

🡺 Discover the best places to stay in the Cotswolds! 🡸

5. Yorkshire Dales

This region has some pretty spectacular English countryside with rolling hillsides covered in heathers or lush pastures capped by snowy peaks. It’s also home to plenty of small towns that are great for exploring too.

Spend your days wandering beautiful valleys and walking along babbling brooks. Yorkshire’s beautiful and sometimes dreamy landscape makes it some of the most beautiful countryside in England. With several distinct personalities, the Yorkshire Dales can be anything from wild and carefree to calm and serene.

With challenging multi-day hikes like the popular 268-mile Pennine Way , you’ll certainly be able to wander through a lot of England’s beautiful countryside in the Yorkshire Dales. You can also hike along heather-capped hillsides or climb mountains like Whernside, Ingleborough, or the Great Shunner Fell – perfect for a day outdoors. 

There are plenty of towns dotted around the area like Alston and the picturesque village of Aysgarth, which have fascinating museums and interesting places to explore too. There are loads of historic sights worth seeing too, like Wilton Castle or Dacre Cellar. 

But it’s also a popular destination for simply walking through beautiful countryside, going on scenic routes by bike (or horseback), or simply exploring these small towns.

There are plenty of accommodation options in the Yorkshire Dales so you’ll be able to find something suitable. The most popular villages are Hawes (stay at The World Famous Tan Hill Inn ), Grassington (stay at the gorgeous Grassington Lodge ), and Burnsall – but most have a range of options to choose from.

🡺 Discover the best places to stay in the Yorkshire Dales! 🡸

There are plenty of beautiful valleys and rolling hillsides in Devon . It’s most famous for Dartmoor National Park. It’s a stunning spot that’ll take your breath away with its rugged beauty and moorland views. It has a stark contrast between sprawling valleys to green pastures and beautiful cliffs fringed by the azure ocean.

Devon’s countryside is diverse: lush fields of patchwork meet rocky coastlines and fossil-filled cliffs. You’ll find steep and wild moorland, rolling hillsides, and beautiful rivers flowing through lush valleys. Devon’s most breathtaking natural features make it one of the most beautiful countryside getaways in England.

The county features intriguing beauties like Lydford Gorge, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in England, featuring an impressive whirlpool known as the Devil’s Cauldron. Then don’t forget about Burrator Reservoir, which has plenty of hiking trails around it, popular for runners or dog walkers.

Devon is a great destination for outdoor activities. For instance, walking in Dartmoor National Park or exploring these lovely villages dotted around this region with their cobbled streets and historic buildings. There are also plenty of castles worth visiting as well – places like Tiverton Castle, Berry Pomeroy Castle, and Powderham Castle. 

You can explore the coastline too, or hire a bike from one of the many local rentals to get out into some of these gorgeous landscapes more easily. For those who love the arts, you’ll find plenty of galleries and museums to visit too.

There are lots of accommodation options in Devon so you’ll be able to find a place that suits your budget. Some of the most popular places are Appledoor, Biddeford, Torquay, and Dartmoor. Most of them have a range of options to choose from, like the Dartmoor Inn or Osborne Hotel . The Osborne Apartments are also great if you’d prefer a self-catering option.

🡺 Discover the best places to stay in Devon! 🡸

7. Cambridgeshire

Cambridgeshire is most famous for its many beautiful villages, including Fen Drayton, St Ives (not to be confused with the one in Cornwall), and the charming village of Grantchester. You’ll find pretty wildflowers, narrow, winding streets, and beautifully preserved Tudor homes.

This is a great destination for outdoorsy types. With picturesque woodland, marshy fenland, and the beautiful, green English countryside, most visitors to Cambridgeshire are drawn to the scenic walking routes of this area .

Decorated with dainty cottages, tiny churches, and market towns, this is definitely some of the most beautiful English countryside. You can explore bluebell forests, wander along the famous River Cam, or rent a boat and explore the area from the water.

Cambridgeshire is most famous for its historic buildings, ancient literature, and beautiful countryside. You can spend some time wandering around the quaint villages and eating delicious brunch , but Cambridge is also famous for its water activities.

Punting, canoeing and kayaking are all popular pastimes here. A lot of visitors enjoy taking in the beautiful scenery and historic buildings from the water. You can also visit the city of Cambridge for a day; wandering its historic streets and visiting museums can be just as fascinating as exploring the country.

There are plenty of places to stay in Cambridgeshire so you’ll be able to find a place that suits your budget. Popular villages include Chesterton, Barton, and St Neots – most of them have a range of options to choose from. The Waterfront Hotel Spa & Golf , or Rectory Farm are great options. If you’d rather stay in Cambridge city centre , the Gonville Hotel is a wonderful treat.

🡺 Discover the best places to stay in Cambridgeshire! 🡸

Dorset’s beauty comes from its coastline, which is not only gorgeous but also diverse. There are high cliffs with dramatic rock formations and everything from pebbly, fossil-filled beaches to soft sandy dunes.

The area’s most famous attraction is the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. It stretches for 95 miles (153 km), and you’ll find some fascinating and beautiful sights along its dinosaur-fossil-infested rocks. This includes the beautiful Lulworth Cove , Portland Bill, Studland Bay, and the infamous Durdle Door , which might be considered one of England’s most iconic views.

Many visitors come here for the coastal walks and natural beauty of England’s southern county. Rocks are popular with climbers, while those who enjoy walking will love exploring this wild coastline. You can also visit Portland Bill Lighthouse or take a boat trip from Swanage Pier. And don’t forget to see the gorgeous Durdle Door.

There is accommodation in most towns and villages throughout Dorset so you’ll be able to find somewhere that suits your budget. Popular destinations include Lyme Regis, Poole, Weymouth , and Bridport. They all have plenty of options available including hotels, B&Bs, cottages, and hostels, like Lulworth Lodge and the Weymouth Beach B&B . There are also camping sites dotted along the coast.

🡺 Discover the best places to stay in Dorset! 🡸

9. South Downs

South Downs is most famous for its breathtaking views and sprawling countryside. The South Downs National Park boasts more than a million acres of downland. It’s the perfect spot if you love open spaces, fresh air, wildflower meadows, and dramatic hillsides. It’s also home to the tallest chalk sea cliff in the UK – 531ft above sea level.

The area has plenty of outdoor activities. The South Downs National Park welcomes many visitors coming here to enjoy walking, cycling, or horse riding on one of the many bridleways through this area. There are also some great wildlife attractions including Lancing College Deerpark where you can see free-roaming fallow deer along with other rare breeds like Highland cattle and Scottish highlanders.

The most popular things visitors enjoy doing here are exploring and enjoying some of the country’s most beautiful scenery. You’ll find plenty of walks from gentle strolls in open fields to woodland trails with wildlife spotting opportunities.

Or for a more challenging route, head up Beachy Head for panoramic views over the National Park and the famous Seven Sisters . It will be tiring, but worth every step!

Most people choose to stay in the South Downs during summer when most villages offer campsites as well as B&Bs. Popular towns include Brighton, Portsmouth, Chichester, and Eastbourne which all have various options available including hotels and cottages, like the stylish Tides Apartment or Chichester Harbour Hotel and Spa .

🡺 Discover the best places to stay in the South Downs! 🡸

10. High Weald

For one of the best countryside getaways in England that’s not too far from London, head to High Weald. It’s ideal if you need to escape from city life but don’t want to travel too far.

This area has a lot to offer – most of it is made up of rolling hills and lush meadows with villages dotted across the landscape. You’ll find plenty of farms, country pubs, and historic buildings to explore.

High Weald has a few popular visitor attractions. A few include Mayfield Lavender Fields which offers you one of the most fragrant places in England. With over 40 acres (162,000 sq m) of fields filled with rows upon rows of lavenders, it’s a pretty amazing sight! 

The most famous village here is Dormansland which has some lovely historic buildings, including St Mary’s Church and The Priory pub. If you’re looking for something more modern then why not try Beckenham? There are plenty of shops along Regents Road as well as delightful cafes along the High Street.

There are more than enough things to see and do in High Weald such as exploring one of the many country trails on foot or by bike. Places like Ashdown Forest are great spots for wildlife sightings. There are also lots of outdoor activities you can partake in. For instance, rock climbing at Copehill Down to horse riding along bridleways through farmland. 

If you prefer something less strenuous then enjoy some time on the Kent and East Sussex Railway which runs through the area. You can hop on a steam train and experience England’s countryside by rail.

The cutest English countryside towns here are East Grinstead, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, and Brenchley. All offer plenty of attractions as well as accommodation options including bed & breakfasts (B&Bs), cottages, or hotels like the Hotel du Vin and Bistro .

🡺 Discover the best places to stay in High Weald! 🡸

How to Get To the English Countryside

Does london have countryside.

London has plenty of beautiful parks and gardens to explore, most of which are within walking distance of the city centre. The most popular ones include Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, and Holland Park.

But, to physically get lost in the countryside, you will have to travel outside the city centre. Although the good news is, you won’t have to travel too far – most of the countryside is just a stone’s throw away from London!

Where is The Closest Countryside to London?

If you are looking for a quick escape from the bustle of city life or only have one day in London , then head to Hampstead Heath. This hilly area is just northwest of central London. Most people can reach it on foot or by bike in about an hour.

If you have slightly longer in the city, you can also visit places like Kentish Town and Stepney Green for a small sliver of the countryside near the busy capital.

When Should You Visit the British Countryside?

You can have one of the best countryside getaways in England pretty much all year round, but for the most enjoyable experience, I suggest visiting between the late spring and autumn. During these times, the weather is best, ideal for outdoor activities, and the scenery is gorgeous.

These are a few of the top times to visit:

• Late Spring – This is when most of its flowers are in bloom. There is plenty of green space for outdoor activities like cycling or walking around lakes. You’ll find pleasant temperatures and most of the tourists have left.
• July – August – This is the most popular time to visit, but also one of the busiest periods. It’s peak tourist season and the school summer holidays . Most people will be making the most of England’s good weather and going on their summer breaks. However, you may still be able to find some remote spots that stray from the typical tourist trail. The weather should be warm, ideal for a picnic with a gorgeous view.
• September – This is a good time to visit if you want some fresh air, but don’t like crowds or too much heat. It’s also an opportunity to see beautiful leaves changing colour. Enjoy late summer fruits such as grapes, apples, and pears.
• Late Autumn – If you arrive in October , most leaves have fallen but before most snow has arrived, then this season will give you some stunning views of almost leafless trees against blue skies with grazing sheep nearby. It’s also another great time for apple picking. But beware, you will probably have to bring a raincoat and waterproof shoes!

Worst times to visit:   The English countryside can be enjoyed year-round, however, it does get very cold, wet, and dreary during winter so visits will need to be planned and packed carefully . Depending on what you want to do, trips can be ruined by snow and the near-constant rain that England is known for. The same can be said for early spring . You’ll likely experience lots of chilly weather and frequent showers.

Final Thoughts on Visiting the English Countryside

Overall, the English countryside is vast, varied, and beautiful. A trip to the countryside is one of my favourite things to do in the UK and there are some stunning spots in England that are just waiting to be explored. If you love hiking and exploring the great outdoors, I can almost guarantee that you’ll fall in love with the countryside in England.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Similar Posts

1 Day in London: The Perfect One Day London Itinerary

From Big Ben to the London Eye, if you only have 1 day in London, here are the best things to add to your London itinerary.

The Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour of Edinburgh

If you love guided tours but would rather do them at your own pace, here’s how to have the perfect self guided walking tour of Edinburgh.

14 Incredible Beaches in The UK

Many of the best beaches in the UK are places that people haven’t even heard of. Here are the 14 best seaside destinations that you’ll love!

Top 10 Things to Do in London: The Ultimate Guide

The glorious English capital is full of wonderful attractions. From Big Ben to the London Eye, these are the top 10 things to do in London.

23 Prettiest Towns and Most Beautiful Villages in England

There’s so much more to England than London! For the perfect British getaway, here are the 23 most beautiful villages in England!

15 Free Things to Do in Oxford: Budget-Friendly Options

Discover the best free things to do in Oxford, a city known for being expensive. However, these 15 things are suitable for budget travellers.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

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

Select language

What are you looking for.

VisitBritain/John Finney

Countryside

Even our quietest corners are full of surprises. Yes, rural Britain is famous for its flower-filled meadows and charming thatched villages – but what about our mountain-top ski resorts, world-class vineyards and dazzlingly diverse national parks? Whether you’re craving a sumptuous break in a former royal castle, or an invigorating hike up our wildest peaks – adventure is calling!

Top countryside destinations to visit

Lake district.

From the tip of England’s tallest peak to the nation’s deepest lake, this national park is stacked with super-sized scenery.

VisitBritain/Ryan Lomas

Lake District, England

Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly

Renowned for its glorious countryside, striking coastline and unique attractions.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Peak District

For hikers, cyclists, horse riders and thrill seekers, the Peak District offers adventures galore.

VisitBritain/Becky Stacey

The Scottish Highlands

Located in the northern reaches of Scotland, the Highlands are about beauty and adventure.

VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

All countryside destinations

From a Medieval monarch found under a car park to the city’s celebration of multicultural modern life, Leicester has got it all.

Visit Leicester

Leicester, England

Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog)

Looming peaks over thick forests, sheep-grazed valleys and open moors - adventure awaits in Wales.

South Downs

Discover epic trails, rivers to kayak, castles to conquer and wild woods to explore.

VisitBritain/Nadir Khan

Borders and Lowlands

The gateway into Scotland, the Borders and Lowlands pack the punch,

VisitBritain/Simon Jarratt

North York Moors

Rugged yet beautiful, wild yet welcoming – the North York Moors National Park is full of surprises.

VisitBritain/Sam Barker

Snowdonia (Eryri)

Full of adventure from its sky-scraping peaks to plunging glacial valleys - it’s bursting with bombastic scenery.

VisitBritain/Daniel Struthers

Northumberland

Historical hot property – evident in its castles, citadels and 2,000-year-old Hadrian’s Wall.

VisitBritain/Chris Ceasar

Pembrokeshire

For a real adventure, head to Wales’s westernmost tip. A paradise for hikers, swimmers, thrill-seekers and birdwatchers.

National Trust/Greentraveller

Pembrokeshire, Wales

Step into nature with tufty-haired ponies, wild countryside and a labyrinth of bike trails.

VisitBritain/Raul Alex Caramizaru

Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms is a playground for wildlife lovers, hill climbers, thrill seekers and more.

VisitBritain/Graham Niven

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Explore pristine woods, climb mountains and paddle the waters of Scotland's wild landscape.

VisitScotland

Yorkshire Dales

Proof that perfection can’t be rushed, the Yorkshire Dales was millions of years in-the-making.

VisitBritain/MattCant

Hugging the south-west, Devon is a playground for adventurers, explorers and foodie lovers.

Shutterstock / Hugh O'Connor

Devon, England

Dartmoor and Exmoor

With tangled oak forests and looming peaks, it can feel like the edge of the world.

From ice-cream parlours to sea food festivals, the ‘Garden of England’ is meant for discovery.

VisitBritain/Dipyourtoesin

The Broads is a breath of fresh air, beautifully webbed with lakes, fens and rivers.

Norfolk Broads Direct

Lush rolling pastures, pretty stone villages and rambling rivers - the Cotswolds has it all.

VisitBritain

Cotswolds, England

North Wales

From valleys, shorelines to towns, find North Wales packed with adventure.

VisitBritain/Lee Beel

Things to do in the countryside

Boat hire in the broads.

Take to the helm of your very own boat to explore this glorious waterway.

Cairngorm Mountain

This action-packed mountain offers skiing in the winter and epic hiking in the summer – with a thrilling ‘tubing park’ too.

The Cairngorms National Park

Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre

See owls, eagles, hawks and falcons in flight, and get hands-on with conservation at this wildlife-focused attraction.

On the foothills of The Malverns, discover the waters of this quaint town.

Michael Whitefoot

Yorkshire Three Peaks

Conquer the three hills of Pen-y-ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside - a 24-mile circular challenge for walkers.

Welcome to Yorkshire

Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park

Experience the thrill of the world’s fastest zip wire, try out surfing or steer a canoe through the crashing rapids at one of Britain’s adventure capitals.

Langdale Valley

For invigorating mountain hikes, you’ve come to the right place: Langdale is famous for its lofty peaks, with cosy pubs and guesthouses too.

VisitBritain/Jack Anstey

South Downs Way

Meander the ancient trackways and spy dazzling chalklands along the South Downs Way National Trail.

Pembroke Castle

The only castle in Britain to be built over a natural cavern.

Peter Morgan

National Park Visitor Centre, Haytor

Take in the sweeping views across Dartmoor and the south Devon coast at these majestic granite rocks dating back 280 million years.

Dartmoor National Park Authority

Follow us on Instagram

Still not sure where to go.

Our cities are full of innovative ways to explore: from London’s secret supper clubs and Edinburgh’sunderground ghost hunts to star-studded music gigs at Cardiff Castle…

• Things To Do
• Countryside & rural

Countryside and rural

Explore the wilderness and take in the natural beauty of the British countryside. Our ancient woodlands and rural trails are some of the most iconic in Europe with sprawling hills, misty moors and winding country roads as far as the eye can see, just waiting to be discovered. 

Ideal for a family day out or an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, you can enjoy the quiet, tranquillity of rural England whatever the weather. Our luscious green fields and forests are home to countless species of plants and wildlife which makes our backyard so unique. If hiking through country trails or climbing mountains and dales isn’t for you, our historic sites, sleepy country villages and gardens are a perfect way to spend an afternoon getting to know our heritage.

In this section

From ancient stone circles and castles to manicured stately homes, there’s plenty to do and see including trying out our home-grown produce such as fresh fruit and veg, farmhouse cheeses, real ales and free range meats for a true taste of the countryside.

Forests and woodlands

The forests of England are thousands of years old. Walk through their history, taking in wild birds and animals, or picking berries along the way. There are all sorts of adventures awaiting you in the English woods.

Gardens and parks

Lovingly tended and designed with beauty in mind, the green spaces available to you are pockets of serenity in cities and towns. See a wide range of hand-picked blooms and enjoy the fresh scents on the air.

National Parks

With multiple Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and places that have influenced artists and writers across the ages, the UK’s National Parks are full of treasures to uncover. You’ll never run out of new things to see as you explore moors and forests.

Lakes and waterways

England loves the water. From canals running networks through cities, to the tranquil surfaces of lakes and reservoirs, boats and sports of all kinds have grown around the waterways of the country. Pick your mode of transport and have fun on the waves.

Wildlife and nature reserves

Get up close and personal to England’s wildlife in all their glory on a visit to England’s preserved and pristine natural environments, from puffin spotting on the northern coastline to spotting rare birds whilst cycling through woodlands.

Areas of outstanding natural beauty

From stunning landscapes boasting miles of rolling hills to picturesque beaches with crystal clear waters; England has over 30 landscapes which have been officially designated as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, all of which will take your breath away.

We've something we want to share

Want to receive travel tips and ideas by email?

VisitEngland would like to invite you to take part in a short survey about our website, it should take no more than a couple of minutes.

Go to the survey

To add items to favourites …

… you need to be logged in.

If you already have an account, log in.

Or register a new account

Access your account

35 Most beautiful Villages in England – Top British countryside!

Probably* the best list of the most charming & beautiful English villages! From small villages in England to stunning UK countryside areas.

Looking for top villages in the UK and the most beautiful English countryside? With cute historic pubs, rolling green hills and charming stone cottages, the most beautiful villages in England have all that you need to spend a wonderful time during a getaway in the UK !

From stunning Cornwall , fairy-tale-like Cotswold villages to the amazing countryside in Yorkshire. Many villages from our list could be easily named “the prettiest village in England”.

All tourists should remember that England is not only about visiting London! The real England is further away from the capital city. It’s full of historic sites and most importantly beautiful English villages.

Yes, there are many pretty villages in Europe but why would you go that far if you have amazing English countryside on your doorstep? Maybe it’s only us, but there is really something special about the rural areas of England and its charming villages – the picturesque beauty hidden away in countryside areas across England.

If you only have a chance, make sure you visit the most beautiful villages in England – you will love all of them!

Where is the most beautiful village in England?

There are so many beautiful villages in England, and it can be hard to choose the most beautiful. Listed below are the top picks for English villages that are gorgeous and scenic, as well as a little look at what makes them so spectacular. Ready to explore the best of the English countryside? 🙂

Explore the most beautiful countryside in England and top prettiest villages in England:

35 Most Beautiful Villages in England

1. castle combe, wiltshire.

Looking for top UK countryside? Quintessentially English, it is no wonder Castle Combe village has been named as the prettiest in England. Found in Wiltshire, it is another Cotswold location that really captures the charm of the area’s aesthetics. This probably is one of the best villages near me!

Striking stone cottages and bridges of the same hue combine to create a picturesque location that you will never want to leave. The river is peaceful to watch, and there are plenty of locations where you can grab a bite to eat and watch the water.

With all that in mind, you can consider Castle Combe as one of the best places to visit near London .

2. Fingest, Buckinghamshire

Best best countryside in UK? Buckinghamshire is home to many beautiful places. Due to its location many of them you can visit on a day trip from London . When it comes to most beautiful villages in England, Fingest has to be very top on the list!

The village is often described as a great example of an unspoilt British village. A combination of Georgian and medieval cottages, beautiful countryside and a top call English village pub called The Chequers attract many tourists to visit this village every weekend.

Fingest definitely is a must-visit village in the Chilterns !

3. Shere, Surrey

Most beautiful village in UK? If you are after popular UK villages then Shere is Surrey is a great option for you!

Nestled in the Tillingbourne valley, the village of Shere is located between beautiful towns of Guildford and Dorking, making it a perfect place to live near London!

The village offers visitors a stream with ducks, many charming buildings, two pubs (The White Horse & The William Bray) a tearoom, as well as a 12th-century church. You may recognise the village from the 2006 rom-com The Holiday starring Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz.

You can be sure that you will fall in love with the village of Shere near Guildford.

4. Goring on Thames, Oxfordshire

Yes, Oxfordshire is home to England’s most beautiful villages and Goring on Thames really has to be very top on the list of cute villages in England!

From an old mill, which is no longer in use to many traditional British pubs, there is much to see and visit in the village of Goring .

Goring is located on the River Thames in the southern part of Oxfordshire and features the Goring Gap. This area really is spectacular for hiking so if you are looking for the best places to walk near London , you need to visit this cute English village.

All you have to do is book a hotel in Goring so you can explore the unspoilt natural beauty around this historic English village.

5. Polperro, Cornwall

Recommended by Sophie from thewanderfulme.com

Where to find the most beautiful countryside in England? Who else loves little seaside villages featuring quaint little pubs bustling with locals having a pint, fishing boats bobbing up and down in the harbour, the sounds of seagulls floating along in the salty breeze, and the crash of waves along the rocky coast?

The tiny little Cornwall village of Polperro delivers all that and more. It really is one of the most beautiful villages in the UK.

You’ll find it hard to not go absolutely crazy for the colourful cottages clinging to the jagged hillsides, charming local shops selling everything from handmade pottery to homemade candy, picturesque ocean views, timeworn pubs with their stooped ceilings serving up crisp Cornwall cider, and teeny cobblestone pathways leading to nowhere.

What makes Polperro unique though is its history. Once a thriving centre for the area’s smuggling days, under the cover of night smugglers used to weave their way through the winding streets, carting off barrows of fish, tobacco bales, and casks of brandy to places like London.

Without a doubt, this is one of the cutest and most unique fishing villages in southern England and is a must if you’re ever in the area.

6. Sonning on Thames, Berkshire

Looking for the most beautiful villages England? Without a doubt, Sonning on Thames has to be very top on any list of the prettiest English villages!

There are many places to have to explore while visiting this pretty English village.

Start with Sonning Lock – colourful gardens perfect for a stroll along the towpath. You will definitely enjoy the magical scenery surrounding this village as it’s pure joy for cyclists and walkers. In fact, this is one of the best places for nice walks near London .

Anyone visiting Sonning on Thames has also go to The Mill at Sonning. This 18th-century Flour Mill has been converted into a beautiful Dinner Theatre, which really is one of the most famous places to visit in Berkshire!

7. Turville, Buckinghamshire

Nicest villages in England and top countryside areas in the UK? Known for numerous appearances in televisions shows (e.g. The Vicar), Turville is a stunning example of a quintessentially British village. Located in the beautiful Chilterns Area of Outstanding Beauty , just 5 miles of High Wycombe is a famous spot for hiking near London and one of the best forests near me !

The Bull and Butcher, as it’s called the only village pub, is a perfect place to relax after exploring the surrounding area. Or, you can just get the for a pint after visiting nearby Henley-on-Thames .

Don’t forget to walk up the hill to see the Cobstone Windmill and take an amazing picture of Hambleden Valley and the village. Without a doubt, Turville is one of the best places to visit in Buckinghamshire !

8. Long Crendon, Buckinghamshire

Most beautiful villages near London? Anyone looking for picture-postcard villages in England has to visit Long Crendon! If you are planning a weekend getaway in England and Buckinghamshire is your location of choice, then you have to stay at Long Crendon Manor . This unique and historic country house provides luxury bed and breakfast , which will definitely make your visit special.

The rural stunning landscape is watered by the River Thame on which the Long Crendon village stands. Apart of spending time in the village, you should also visit the nearby Thame and Brill, both are within easy driving distance.

We really liked this village as it’s a delightful one to stroll around – it really is one of the best places to visit in Buckinghamshire and a top British village!

9. Ickleford, Hertfordshire

Where to go for best English countryside? Hertfordshire is home to many quaint English villages you just have to visit. If you are big fan of lavender fields and sunflower fields, the head out to Ickleford – it’s located just stone throw away from Hitchin and it’s known as one of the most beautiful village in UK!

The village of Ickleford is as popular with visitors as it is with its friendly local community so if you are planning to visit Hertfordshire , make sure to have Ickleford on your list!

10. Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire

Best old villages in England to visit? Head out to Buckinghamshire and visit Milton’s Cottage museum located in a Chalfont St Giles . It really is one of England’s prettiest villages!

John Milton, who completed his epic poem Paradise Lost was one of the most known residents of this pretty village. You may also recognise the village from the 1971 film version of Dad’s Army or an episode of the BBC Television sitcom As Time Goes By.

If you are looking for ideas where to go for a day trip from London , Chalfont St Giles in Buckinghamshire is a great option. It really is one of the most beautiful villages UK.

11. Bakewell, Derbyshire

Recommended by Jenny from peakdistrictkids.co.uk

Where is the top England countryside? Anyone visiting the Peak District finds themselves in Bakewell at some point, whether it to taste a traditional Bakewell pudding, to add a love-lock to the bridge, or to start a hike along the Monsal Trail.

Idyllically situated on the banks of the River Wye, it’s a lovely town for an afternoon stroll past mellow stone buildings to quaint courtyards showcasing local artwork, before popping into a cosy cafe for a pot of tea and slice of Bakewell pudding. The medieval five-arched stone bridge is also a picturesque spot and you can continue your walk along the river.

Bakewell really is one of the best villages in the UK.

Bargains galore are on offer every Monday at the bustling outdoor market, and for an extra buzz, head for the livestock market to experience the action in the theatre-like auction ring!

Bakewell also marks the start of the Monsal Trail, which runs along the former Midland Railway line for 8.5 miles to Chee Dale. This traffic-free gravel path is a popular cycle and walking track.

A top local tip: don’t try and park in the town centre, especially on a weekend or during the school holidays. Instead, head to the car park next to the Agricultural Business Centre. There’s then a footpath that leads you in to town.

12. Cuddington, Buckinghamshire

Looking for beautiful countryside UK? This small village with a population of around 550 residents is mostly popular due to being the location of several Midsomer Murders episodes .

There are a few facilities, a proper British village has to have – those include shop a post office and even 2 churches, but only one is really in use.

It is also worth mentioning that for many years Cuddington won the regional competition of Britain’s best kept villages, so it has to be very top on the list of most beautiful villages in England!

13. Little Missenden, Buckinghamshire

There are many rural village UK and beautiful countryside near me. Without a doubt, Little Missenden can be named as one of the pretty villages in England! Located just of the A413 between Amersham and Wendover , this English village is perfect to visit on a day trip from London while exploring the surrounding British countryside.

Little Missenden village lies on the River Misbourne in the Misbourne valley, which really makes it one of the most picturesque villages in England.

This village with less than 2,500 inhabitants is very often visited by tourists. Mainly because of the beautiful buildings, but also its location in the Chilterns , which makes it a perfect location for hiking near London .

14. Dorchester-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

There are many English villages to visit but many say that Dorchester-on-Thames is the best village in England! Whether it’s true or not, we leave this for you to decide. To us, Dorchester on Thames is for sure one of the best places to visit in Oxfordshire . A perfect place as a base for UK getaway trip !

Anyone looking for a pretty village with a high street full of timber-framed houses has to visit Dorchester-on-Thames . From beautiful Dorchester Abbey and nice landscape of water meadows to Thames Path walks – there is a little bit of everything in and around this irresistible British village.

15. Cheddar, Somerset

Ideas for best villages in UK? This Somerset village is known for two things. The first is an array of cheddar cheeses that are made using traditional methods, and taste unlike anything you have had before.

The other is the mysterious and alluring Cheddar Gorge . This limestone canyon leads to gorgeous caves filled with dazzling geology and stalactites (and mites) that leave you wondering how nature manages to be so artistic in everything it does. To top it all off, they have some of the best afternoon tea you’ll find. 

16. Hambleden, Buckinghamshire

Yes, there are many pretty villages in England. If you are looking for the most beautiful countryside in England, you need to visit Hambleden village !

Located around 3 miles north-east of Henley-on-Thames in Oxfordshire and 4 miles west of Marlow , this village is a must-visit place in Buckinghamshire .

As one of the quaint villages in England, Hambleden is just a gorgeous little village you will love. With a great pub, local shop and a village church it is one of the cutest villages in England we have ever visited.

17. Grassington, North Yorkshire

Recommended by Cora from insideoursuitcase.com

Most charming villages in England? Grassington is located within North Yorkshire and is has been a place I have visited since I was young. With the area being a great hub to start and end walks within the area and neighbouring villages, it is a perfect spot to head to when looking to further explore the Yorkshire Dales.

Grassington is one of the prettiest villages in England because it is old, has wonderful countryside charm and a wonderful village of unique shops, great places to eat and even more wonderful places to stay.

It is definitely one of England’s prettiest villages!

Grassington has some great festivals that occur throughout the year though the better months to visit are Spring and Summer when you can see the lambs within the fields.

My favourite thing to do within the area of Grassington is going on a walk. Whether this is around the village, down by the River Wharfe or up into the hills to see the spectacular views over the fields.

If you aren’t much of a walker, Grassington makes for a great base while exploring some of the small neighbouring villages such as Burnsall, Kettlewell and even down to Bolton Abbey.

18. Pangbourne, Berkshire

What to add to your list of best English villages? There are many nice villages in England you can visit on a day trip from London. And Pangbourne in Berkshire is definitely one of the must-visit charming English villages!

This charming village, nestling along the River Thames is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Berkshire.

Full of individual shops, places to potter and pubs, Pangbourne village is an ideal location attracting many tourists. The surrounding picturesque countryside is also perfect for everyone looking for the best walks near London .

Yes, Pangbourne really is one of the most beautiful villages in the UK!

19. West Wycombe, Buckinghamshire

This really is one of the top 10 best villages in England! Located in Buckinghamshire , the charming village of West Wycombe is situated along the A40 road. There is ample parking in and around West Wycombe so you can easily visit this beautiful village by car.

This one-street village lined with stunning Tudor houses is must-see in this part of southern England !

Without a doubt, West Wycombe village is one of the most beautiful villages in England. It is also a perfect place to visit on a day trip from London – you not only get to admire stunning old building in the village, but you can also explore the National Trust’s West Wycombe Park and hike the hills. This area is known for being the best countryside in UK!

20. Framlingham, Suffolk

Recommended by Jacquie from flashpackingfamily.com

Top countryside places in England? Framlingham is located in the heart of Suffolk, one of the most rural parts of the UK. It is quintessentially English with its small independent shops, colourful houses and resident ducks taking right of way over the traffic. So idyllic is it that it has previously been voted the best place to live in England by Country Life magazine.

The pace of life in Framlingham is slow but really comes alive in the summer when visitors come from all around to visit Framlingham Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England. It sits on a bluff with commanding views over the Suffolk countryside and is a great place to explore if you’re visiting Suffolk with kids .

If you are looking for picturesque villages in England, Framlingham is one of them!

After visiting the castle, you can take a walk around the narrow streets lined with colourful houses and adorned with equally colourful flowers. There are a couple of small tearooms where you can enjoy a traditional high tea and a handful of pubs, one of which is Ed Sheeran’s local which he pops into from time to time.

If you’re visiting Framlingham on a Saturday, make sure to check out the small market with produce from the local area. Framlingham is the perfect place to visit if you want to feel like you’re stepping back in time.

21. Bibury, Gloucestershire

Top village England? This serene Cotswold village is famed for the honey-stone walls that make up most of the homes there. It’s surrounded by stunning rural scenery, as well as friendly locals that will make your stay a welcome one.

The famed Arlington Row is where the movie Stardust was filmed, as well as Bridget Jones’ Diary. Despite this, it remains undisturbed and perfectly peaceful.

Would you add Bibury to the list of the most beautiful villages in England? 🙂

22. Cookham, Berkshire

Where to go to see the best village in UK? Berkshire is definitely home to some of the most famous villages in England and Cookham just has to be added to the list of best villages to visit in England!

This pretty village located between Marlow and Maidenhead is just another well-heeled Thames-side village you just have to see. Cookham is a very popular tourist destination in Berkshire, as well as a great place to live near London.

The village used to be home of the 20th-century artist Sir Stanley Spencer, who once called Cookham “a village in heaven”. Was he right? Just visit this charming British village and see it yourself.

23. Ashburton, Devon

Recommended by Annemarie from travelonthebrain.net

Where to go for the most beautiful villages in UK? When I explored Devon in Southwest England I decided to base myself in Ashburton. It’s well connected to the bus lines across the county, right at the fringe of the gorgeous Dartmoor National Park and busy enough to dine out and get some shopping done as well.

While not particularly big, I found plenty of things to do in Ashburton . I absolutely adored the many opportunities to amble around the countryside with shady walks through bluebell woods, over open pastures and up to Hound Tor and other natural landmarks of the national park.

Moreover, Ashburton has a few restaurants, pubs and cafes to please the foodie in you. I can recommend The Old Library Restaurant for an amazing avocado toast, Rust and the Wolf for a nightly drink out and Taylors for tea time.

This picturesque village in England really is worth visiting!

When you’re done filling your stomach, check out the many different antiquity stores all over Ashburton. There sure is something to intrigue, maybe vintage brooches, period furniture or shiny frames, to name just a few.

Having said all that, what Ashburton is most known for is its renowned cooking school, where beginners and professional chefs alike can perfect the art of cooking that is both delicious and pleasing to the eye.

24. Bradenham, Buckinghamshire

Looking for chocolate box village in England? Set in the Chiltern Hills , Bradenham village is definitely one of the most charming British villages. Blessed with a network of footpaths, it’s an ideal place for anyone looking great hiking spots near London .

Bradenham is a very small village located just 3 north of West Wycombe village . It is one of the best places to visit in Buckinghamshire !

If you are visiting by car then you should know that free parking is available in the village. It’s located just opposite the cricket pavilion.

The two most prominent historic buildings are Bradenham Manor, which is currently in use by a commercial company and is not open to the public, and the medieval parish church.

There is also a cricket pitch in the village – a perfect place for a quick game on a weekend!

25. Cadgwith Cove, Cornwall

Recommended by Annabel from smudgedpostcard.com

Is this the most beautiful countryside UK? Cadgwith Cove is a Cornish working fishing village on the east coast of the Lizard Peninsula in southern Cornwall, England . Visit the village during summertime to see it at its best. The pretty thatched cottages have flower-filled gardens and the narrow lanes wend their way down to the harbour where at low tide colourful boats sit on the pebbly beach.

The locals of Cadgwith hold a charity BBQ party on certain evenings in the summertime, visitors and residents enjoy freshly caught seafood and children are entertained with a puppet theatre on the beach. There’s an excellent local pub, the Cadgwith Cove Inn, which hosts live Cornish folk music each week.

The village is close to some great coastal walks, there’s a path from the village to the Devil’s Frying Pan, a collapsed sea cave. There’s also a host of lovely beaches nearby which remain relatively quiet even in the high season compared to those found in other parts of Cornwall .

Would you add Cadwigh Cove to the list of England’s most beautiful villages?

26. Castleton, Derbyshire

Recommended by Roshni from thewanderlustwithin.com

Top UK countryside destinations? One of the prettiest villages in the Peak District is Castleton in Hope Valley. Castleton has long been a hotspot for hikers, outdoor lovers and history buffs. Castleton village is situated in Derbyshire and can be reached in only half an hour from Sheffield by train.

The charming village of Castleton is home to Mam Tor, also known as Shivering Mountain. It is the top attraction in Hope Valley and provides dramatic views of the Peak District from above. The hike to Mam Tor only takes two hours from the village centre, making it popular amongst families as well as seasoned trekkers.

Also overlooking this quaint village is also the 11th-century ruins of Peveril Castle, one of England’s earliest Norman fortresses. The castle makes for another great hike in the area as it is perched well above Hope Valley, and is opposite Mam Tor.

Surrounded by the most beautiful countrysides in England, Castleton really is one of the most beautiful English villages!

For those who want to soak up history, Castleton is home to some of the best show caves and caverns in the country, such as Speedwell Cavern, Peak Cavern and Treak Cliff Cavern. Once you’ve enjoyed the hikes and caves, tuck into a traditional afternoon tea or a delicious pub lunch in one of the many eateries in the village.

27. Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire

There are many nice villages near me! Known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, Bourton on the Water really is a unique place to visit in England. Straddling the River Windrush, it is famed for its low bridges and stone houses.

Home to Birdland, incredible species of birds are available for you to see and learn about on your trip. Combined with some of the best little tea rooms and cafes in the area, it is the ideal getaway.

Bourton on the Water Model Village is also one of the most popular attractions in this stunning English village.

28. Boscastle, Cornwall

Recommended by Kat from wandering-bird.com

Best villages to live in UK? If you’re looking for a beautiful English village, look no further than Boscastle, Cornwall . This pretty village has several reasons to visit – some more macabre than others!

To start, it’s a typical Cornish village – beautiful slate and stone houses set around a cute little harbour full of local fishing boats. It also has world-famous local pottery and one of the best ice cream shops in the area!

It’s also home to one of the most famous witchcraft museums in the world. Yep, this tiny cute village houses an entire building filled with myth, magical and gore. It’s a fascinating place to visit – learn the history of witchcraft in the area, devices used to torture and condemn witches and even discover your fortune!

We visited Boscastle after our trip to the incredible Tintagel Castle (supposed home of King Arthur and also worth a visit.) Boscastle is a short drive away from the Castle and there are plenty of hotels/B & Bs in the area if you need them.

In short, if you’re looking for a cute village in one of the prettiest parts of the country, Boscastle is it!

29. Ripley, Surrey

Looking for little villages in England to visit on a day trip from London ? Ripley in Surrey is just a perfect option. It really is an example of stunning picturesque English villages!

If you wish to explore Ripley for yourself, just go for a day trip from London. The picturesque Surrey village of Ripley is also a perfect base for everyone willing to explore Surry Hills or planning a weekend getaway in England .

Many coffee shops, restaurants and independent boutiques make Ripley village also a perfect place to live near London.

So, is Ripley on your list of UK’s most picturesque villages?

30. Alfriston, East Sussex

Recommended by Enikő from travelhackergirl.com

Looking for the best villages in England to live? Alfriston is a real hidden gem in the South Downs National Park. It was even named as one of “ England’s 27 most beautiful villages ” by the Telegraph. You can reach the village by public transport if you take the train to Polegate and then change to the local bus.

Alfriston lies in the valley of the River Cuckmere, which is a lovely place for recreational sports like kayaking or paddleboarding. If you go for a stroll, you can explore the historic heritage of the village and visit one of the cute cafes, pubs, shops or galleries. Don’t miss St Andrew’s church (the “ Cathedral of the South Downs “) and the clergy house (the National Trust’s first property).

The village also hosts many events throughout the year including music festivals, summer fairs, book launches. Alfriston is also surrounded by beautiful countryside. From the village, you get great views of the Litlington Horse, which is a popular place to go hiking near London . As one of the best countryside villages in England, Alfriston is a must-visit.

31. Romsey, Hampshire

Recommended by Mal from rawmalroams.com

Romsey is a charming market town dating from Medieval times. It’s a quiet and traditional place where people smile at each other and where you can have a chat in a grocery store because the owner recognises you.

In the heart of this small town, there is an expansive Norman Abbey built in 907 AD which is the largest Parish church in Hampshire that houses many notable musical events. Sometimes you can hear Abbey’s bells kilometres away from town.

There is a king John’s House heritage centre where you can have tea and a cake, and a stunning period garden bustling with colours and scents of flowers and plants in the Springtime. Romsey was home to the 19th-century British prime minister William Petty. Today, his statue takes a central place in Romsey and his former residence – the Broadlands, hosts many craft events and charity races throughout the year. 

A great time to visit Romsey is during its summer festival – Beggars Fair that includes over 90 acts in various venues and most importantly it’s free. 

Without a doubt, a list of the most charming villages in England wouldn’t be complete without Romsey village.

32. Lindisfarne, Northumberland

Recommended by Tracy from uktravelplanning.com

Best countryside village? The beautiful village of Lindisfarne can be found on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne located off the coast of Northumberland. The village and island of Lindisfarne are popular destinations in the northeast of England . This tiny island only 3 miles long and half a mile wide welcomes over half a million visitors a year.

The village (and island) are incredibly pretty with stunning views towards Bamburgh Castle and the Farne Islands. Cross over to the island via a tidal causeway (be sure to check the tides before you drive over) and park in the island car park before walking up to the village.

Once in the village enjoy a stroll around the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory. The Priory was home to St Cuthbert and was one of the centres of early Christianity. The famous Lindisfarne Gospels were also written at the Priory. After learning about the history of the Priory at the museum walk a little further through the village to Lindisfarne Castle which was built in 1550.

With so many beautiful villages in England, Lindisfarne really is up there!

There are a number of cafes, restaurants and pubs in the village and I recommend the Ship Inn during the summer months. Its large beer garden is a great place to relax during a day of sightseeing.

33. Stow on the Wold, Gloucestershire

Looking for medieval villages in England? Found in jolly Gloucestershire, this village stems back to the Norman period and is rich with tradition. It’s located at the top of an 800-foot hill and is defined as the junction of the Cotswolds and the Roman Road, Fosse Way.

The town itself was founded by Norman Lords, and it has since been a central point for trade due to its ideal location on so many key roads for the area. The markets held in the village uphold that trading tradition. 

Stow on the Wold really is one of the prettiest villages in England!

34. Hartley Wintney, Hampshire

Recommended by Danni from livein10countries.com

This really is one of the best villages to live in. Set in the very popular Hart District of Hampshire, Hartley Wintney is an immensely popular place to live. You’re on a direct train line from Waterloo, with lots of towns and attractions in an easy drive, but your immediate surroundings are a sweet village with charming cottages, a luscious cricket green (and highly competitive cricket team), quirky boutiques and welcoming local pubs.

For a day trip, you can whip down the A30 easily to Hartley Wintney and soak up the quaint atmosphere. There’s a small selection of boutique shops on the High Street that you won’t find elsewhere and afterwards a bite from the bakery is great for refuelling.

Kids will love feeding the ducks in the duck pond or watching a summer cricket match with the rest of the village and Hartley Wintney’s houses also back onto a wide heath which is popular with horse riders and wildlife fans. Don’t miss the hearty pub lunches and friendly country folk you’ll find in the Waggon and Horses Pub.

Would you add Hartley Wintney as one of the most beautiful villages in England?

35. Hawkshead, Cumbria

Recommended by Elizabeth from thefearlessforeigner.com

Hawkshead is one of the most charming villages in the Lake District of England. If you are a fan of the beloved children’s book author, Beatrix Potter, you will definitely want to visit. The author’s gallery, full of her artwork and books is located in the centre of the village. You can also learn more about where she received the inspiration for her books and then go out the door of the gallery and walk around the surrounding area to see for yourself!

Within Hawkshead, the Grammar School is another interesting place to visit. The school, known as the best boy’s school in the country was founded in 1585. When visiting you will get a tour of the school and learn about history.

The main street of Hawkshead is lined with quaint shops and cafes. Poppi Red, a combined gift shop and cafe was one of my favourite places. You can find some unique gift items there and choose from a wide selection of fresh baked goods. Not only is Hawkshead a beautiful village to walk around in the surrounding countryside is also worth the walk or drive to the village. The quaintness of the village combined with the idyllic countryside make it one of the best villages to visit.

Most beautiful villages in England FAQ:

Castle Combe is the most beautiful village you can visit in the Cotswolds.

Bibury was described by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England” – explore Cotswold villages to see if that’s true!

The South of England is full of beautiful places to visit and home to some of the best countrysides in the country.

Facts about villages in England:

Where is the best countryside in england.

There is so much glorious countryside in England, that it can be hard to choose just one location. The Cotswolds are hailed as some of the best areas in the country, and they have such a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel as though it was always your home. Additionally, they serve delicious treats and local foods that make the trip even more wonderful. 

However, Cambridgeshire and Hampshire also have their fair share of gorgeous countryside retreats. Manor houses and large gardens make some of the most inviting and relaxing places to spend a day and maybe learn a little history. The Devonshire countryside is vast and rural, and you often have the benefit of rolling fields turning into sand and sea in the blink of an eye. 

Best countryside near London

Ashwell in Hertfordshire is certainly one of the best countryside locations near London. It is quaint and quiet, but not so much so that it leaves you wanting something to do. It’s a civil parish laced with history and some truly beautiful buildings, including the church which acts as the perfect centrepiece. 

Lined with shops and local businesses that sell unique items, it brings you back to a time where everything was less mainstream and more personalised. Sampling local baked goods and meals at cafes and restaurants that are family owned make this the perfect place to escape to if you want to escape the manufactured feel of the city and would rather try something that is a little more down to earth.

How many villages are there in England?

An interesting way to start this is with the number of abandoned villages in England. This number is estimated to be a staggering 3000. The reasons for this vary from the Black Death and social reorganisation (each of which caused depopulation), as well as changes to both the monastic and manorial system during the Medieval period.

However, these numbers might not be entirely accurate – we could be looking at a lot more abandoned villages. This is because a regular census has not been carried out prior to the Doomsday Book, and even after its creation, the census was massively lacking. Therefore, we find ourselves uncovering even more abandoned ancient villages.

Currently, in Modern England, it is a little difficult to determine the exact number of villages. This is because there is no clear definition, and some fall under the small town category and hamlets do not have their own section in the government charter. Put simply, there are thousands of villages in England and the UK. As an interesting side fact, there are 56 cities in England and 74 in the UK – with more pending in their application for becoming one.

What makes a village a village?

A village is classically defined as a small settlement in a rural location. They are larger than a hamlet, which has very small populations. It is generally agreed by geographers that the population of a village is usually between 500 people and 2500 people. One of the defining features of a village is that they are usually clustered around a single point.

In the UK, this point is commonly a church. This is because many of the villages that stand today grew around the church that was built in them, or were newly formed when Christianity became the prevalent religion. Some are centred around green areas or homes – such as Old Basing which has the magnificent Basing House (now in ruins) as one of the central features.

The small population of a village often means that the communities are very close, and there are usually limited places to buy food and supplies. Usually, there is one local shop and a pub where the residents can buy essentials as well as socialise. Their rural location also tends to mean that they are a popular place for walking dogs as well as taking long strolls with family.

Where is the oldest village in England?

There are conflicting ideas on this, and while both are technically classed as towns they are also very small. Colchester is the oldest recorded town. This is significant because it was referenced by Pliny the Elder, a Roman writer, in AD 77. This far predates the Doomsday Book where we find many of the villages, towns, and cities that we know today.

On the other hand, archaeologists claim that Amesbury in Wiltshire is the oldest village. This is not because of any written record, but simply through proof of habitation. It is the oldest continuously habited village in England. This is quite incredible because of the way settlements move so much throughout history.

To have evidence of a settlement that has not ceased since 8820 BC. A little fun fact is that the consumption of frogs’ legs was recorded here 8000 years before the French even thought of the notion. The reason this site is so interesting is because the Neolithic period is so known for its nomadic people. To find a solid settlement that has been inhabited for so long is astounding.

What’s the difference between a town and a village UK?

The very basics of this are that a village is a small community in a rural setting, and a town is a populated area with fixed boundaries and a local government. But the question on the tip of the tongue is how exactly a village becomes a town. The answer is through an increased population, which also leads to the construction and expansion of the village boundaries.

Where a village tends to be classed as having up to 2500 people, a standard town will often contain at least 10000 people. This does leave a notable gap between the two population levels, and this is a sort of limbo that villages are left in while they are transitioning to towns. At this point, they are often classed as small towns as opposed to villages.

Love England and the rest of the UK?

Read our other articles related to this stunning country:

Weekend trips UK

Best Cotswold villages

Places to visit in South England

Things to do in St. Albans

Broadway Tower

Articles you may like:

• Best weekend getaways in the UK – TOP 20 weekend trips UK!
• Best beaches in Algarve Portugal – Algarve’s TOP 13 beaches!
• Visiting Verdon Gorge France – Top tips to French Grand Canyon!
• How to get to Schafberg mountain Austria?

Further reading

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

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

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

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

Our Guide to the Best English Countryside

Home > Blog > Our Guide to the Best English Countryside

Where is the best English countryside? A tough question – but we’ll try to answer!

At Absolute Escapes, we’re always discussing our favourite spots to visit in the UK. As someone who grew up in Scotland, I fondly remember crossing the border to England and observing the changing landscape from the backseat of my parents’ car during the summer holidays.

With recommendations from the team, I’ve put together a list of a few of our all-time favourite spots in the English countryside. Despite being a relatively small country, England ’s countryside is very varied and diverse. From steep grassy hills and rugged moors to tranquil lakes and gently flowing rivers, the English countryside has so much to offer.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by North York Moors National Park (@northyorkmoors)

These classic landscapes are not the only reason why countryside retreats are loved by so many. There’s something particularly idyllic about village life in the English countryside. Many pubs and restaurants are proud to serve local produce and there is something to be said for enjoying a fresh meal when you know the ingredients were grown just a few miles down the road.

For history lovers, the countryside can also be a real treasure trove. While large cities can offer multiple museums and endless visitor attractions, the countryside is also full of history and unmissable sightseeing opportunities.

The Yorkshire Dales: Cherish A Classic Favourite

The Yorkshire Dales National Park is an area which never fails to amaze its visitors. Situated in the North of England, the Yorkshire Dales are an ideal location for those looking to escape the crowds and relax in the beautiful countryside. Rolling hills dotted with sheep, charming villages and endless walking opportunities make the Yorkshire Dales a real sanctuary for nature enthusiasts. The quintessential dry stone walls of Yorkshire stretch as far as the eye can see and are an integral piece of the landscape.

Some of our favourite spots in the Yorkshire Dales include Malham, Keld and Hawes.

Malham is famed for its impressive limestone rock formations (which even featured in the Harry Potter films!) Malham Cove can be easily accessed from the village of Malham and makes an excellent spot to take in the views.

Gordale Scar is another popular attraction. The gorge is extremely impressive and the true size of this natural phenomenon can only be appreciated in real life.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Discovering Yorkshire (@discovering_yorkshire)

Situated in North Yorkshire, the pretty village of Keld is perhaps one of the most tranquil spots in the Dales. Lying in Swaledale, this village is relatively secluded and makes the perfect spot to enjoy the surrounding countryside and nearby walks.

Keld has become a popular spot for walkers, with the Pennine Way , the Coast to Coast and the Herriot Way all crossing through this village. Kisdon Force Falls are a short walk from the village and the surrounding woodland has been named a ‘Site of Special Scientific Interest’ due to its abundance and variety of flora and fauna.

The pretty market town of Hawes in Upper Wensleydale is a great location to explore the Yorkshire Dales from, with fantastic walking opportunities in the surrounding area.

The circular route which includes a visit to the famous Hardraw Force Falls – the highest single-drop waterfall in England – is a must if you are in the area.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Yorkshire Dales National Park (@yorkshiredales)

The North York Moors: Explore the Rugged Moorlands

Perhaps less famous than the neighbouring Yorkshire Dales, the North York Moors National Park offers some of the most remarkable scenery in England. The beautiful heather-clad hills and extensive woodlands offer fantastic walking opportunities.

For nature lovers, the moorland is a great place to discover different species of wildlife, such as the Merlin, the UK’s smallest bird of prey.

A Place to Stargaze

The North York Moors National Park became an International Dark Sky Reserve in 2020, and the countryside is one of the best places to stargaze in the UK due to the clear skies and low light pollution. The more remote the better and in some spots up to two thousand stars can be visible in the night sky.

If you’re looking for a change of pace and a breath of fresh air, you’ll love Yorkshire.

Interested in visiting the Yorkshire countryside? Take a look at our itinerary Classic Yorkshire: Whitby, York & The Dales which encompasses the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and the historic city of York.

For a self-drive holiday which is more focused on walking opportunities, we’d recommend looking at our Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks multi-centre walking holiday which allows you to explore these two fantastic national parks.

Kent: Discover The Garden of England 

Situated in the southeast of England, the countryside of Kent cannot go unmentioned and is another popular destination for the Absolute Escapes team.

With miles of beautiful pastures and landscapes dotted with enchanting cottages, the historic county of Kent is a wonderful destination frequently referred to as the ‘Garden of England’. The region is also famed for its hop production and abundance of National Trust attractions.

The Perfect Retreat

The Kent Downs AONB is a protected landscape which encompasses the vibrant, bluebell-studded woodlands and pastoral villages from the white cliffs of Dover to the London border. It’s hard to believe that these beautiful gardens and stunning countryside views are less than an hour away from bustling London.

A couple of days in the Kent countryside would make a wonderful addition to a trip to London and would be a great way to combine rural and urban England.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kent Downs AONB (@kent_downs_aonb)

The enchanting Scotney Castle is well worth a visit and the mansion on the estate is a fine example of classic Victorian architecture. Oldbury Hill is another excellent place to visit and combines a fantastic woodland walk with a visit to one of the largest remains of an Iron Age hill fort in the country.

Take a look at our South of England Road Trip itinerary which passes through some of this incredible countryside as well as the beautiful Kent coast. You can also speak to one of our Travel Specialists about adding additional days to this itinerary if you would like to explore the region in even more detail.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Absolute Escapes (@absoluteescapes)

The Cotswolds: Enjoy A Timeless Haven

The Cotswolds AONB stretches through five counties in England and is the perfect place to explore those charmingly classic English villages. Explore quaint villages where gentle rivers are lined by honey-coloured cottages, traditional tea rooms and atmospheric pubs.

Bourton-on-the-Water

Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds , Bourton-on-the-Water is the perfect place to soak up the timeless charm of southern central England and is often referred to as ‘the Venice of England’ due to its impressive stone bridges.

The famous Model Village of Bourton-on-the-Water has been delighting visitors since 1937, when it was officially opened to commemorate the Coronation of King George VI.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Cotswolds accommodation in Bourton-on-the-Water (@lansdowne_bourton_on_the_water)

Castle Combe

Many consider Castle Combe to be one of the prettiest villages in England. Castle Combe has been a popular filming location for several years and has featured in various acclaimed pictures such as War Horse.

Glorious Walks

The Cotswolds offer both excellent sightseeing opportunities and fantastic walks. From long and challenging walks to more relaxed rambles, there are many well-loved walking routes which will allow you to explore the area at an easygoing pace.

Our Cotswolds and Jurassic Coast multi-centre walking holiday enables you to explore the delightful areas with a focus on exploring the wonderful countryside on foot.

Discover the English countryside

If you’d like to experience classic England for yourself, why not have a look at our Classic England: Oxford & The Cotswolds self-drive itinerary?

The English countryside offers a unique blend of majestic landscapes, delightful villages and world-class heritage sites. For me, England’s most impressive feature is its sheer variety of landscapes, each with its own rich history and extraordinary character for you to discover.

While the areas I have mentioned are particular favourites of mine, it’s important to note that there are still so many more spots waiting to be explored! If you’re looking to plan the perfect holiday to the English countryside, please get in touch and our Travel Specialists will be delighted to assist you.

A journey of discovery

Uncover hidden gems and holiday inspiration from our team of travel specialists. Sign up today and start discovering.

" (Required) " indicates required fields

Expand your horizons

Sign up for our newsletter and unlock exclusive tips and inspiration from our team of travel specialists.

8 scenic English countryside escapes, from dramatic cliffs to charming villages

Looking to get out of the city? A weekend vacation in England 's countryside will recharge you with its fresh air, sprawling landscapes, and historic sites. As you stroll along cobbled streets and wander around lush greenery, you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled back in time. From rolling moors to rugged coastlines, there are a variety of English countryside getaways you can choose from. Here are 8 of the best spots in the English countryside to add to your itinerary.

1. The Cotswolds

Best for: Stunning scenery

Getting there: 2-hour drive from London

Stretching over 787 square miles, the Cotswolds offers the quintessential English experience. Rolling hills, honey-colored houses, and lowland slopes characterize this region that was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1966.

If you’re short of time, you can visit the Cotswolds on a day trip from London , but we recommend spending a few days exploring the quaint villages scattered around the area. Watch rhinos graze in front of a Gothic manor at the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens , wander through Hidcote Manor Garden in Chipping Campden , and enjoy a day out at the WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre . Fans of Harry Potter mustn’t miss Gloucester Cathedral , where some scenes from the films were shot.

Where to stay:

• Whatley Manor , an eco-friendly hotel with its own bee colony and a restaurant with a Michelin star
• White Hart Royal Hotel , conveniently located in the market town of Moreton-in-Marsh

2. Southend-on-Sea

Best for: Beach getaways

Getting there: 1-hour train ride from London

Fancy an English countryside escape near London? Southend-on-Sea is a coastal city in southeastern Essex . Home to the longest pier in the world , Southend is full of entertainment venues, from Sea Life Adventure to Adventure Island , a theme park with free admission. Hoping to get away from the crowds? Head to Shoebury East Beach or stroll along the sea walls at Wallasea Island , a wetland bird reserve. Old Leigh , a historic enclave by the water, is full of pubs and cafes selling fresh seafood.

• Roslin Beach Hotel , just a mile from Southend Pier
• Family-owned boutique property, Camelia Hotel

3. Cheshire

Best for: Fun-filled family trips

Getting there: 30-minute train ride from Manchester

Not just the name of Alice in Wonderland ’s grinning feline, Cheshire is a rural county known for its architecture, cheese, and gardens. Lewis Caroll was born here in Daresbury and named the Cheshire Cat after his hometown. Explore Chester with a gladiator, once the largest Roman fortification in Britain, and make a new furry friend at Chester Zoo . Walk right into a fairytale at Little Moreton Hall , a Tudor gem in the Cheshire countryside, or enjoy some retail therapy at Cheshire Oaks , the largest designer outlet in the United Kingdom . The sweeping Walton Hall and Gardens offers fun for the whole family, with a small petting zoo, meticulously-kept gardens, and a golf course.

• The Alexandra Court Hotel , a cozy guesthouse with 14 individually-designed rooms
• The Royal Oak Hotel , a boutique hotel set in a Tudor home

4. Hampshire

Best for: Animal lovers

Getting there: 30-minute drive from Southampton

Boasting meandering trout rivers and two national parks, Hampshire is a tranquil county on the coast of the English Channel. Spot abundant wildlife in the New Forest National Park , which is known for its ponies and deer, journey through Winchester’s prosperous past , or take a walk in Jane Austen’s footstep s and see the house where Pride and Prejudice was written. Your little ones will love feeding the baby animals at Longdown Activity Farm and marveling at the spectacular flying demonstrations at the Hawk Conservancy Trust .

• Cottage Lodge Hotel , an eco-conscious hotel in the heart of the New Forest National Park
• South Lawn Hotel , a charming English cottage

5. North York Moors

Best for: Expansive greenery

Getting there: 2-hour train ride from London

Covering 554 square miles, North York Moors National Park is one of England’s most breathtaking landscapes. In fact, the 840 bus route that runs through the North York Moors was voted Britain’s most scenic bus route. There are plenty of hiking trails in the area, but you can always channel your inner Catherine or Heathcliff and wander around the wild moors in search of gems like Mallyan Spout and Boggle Hole . This full-day tour will take you from York to the countryside and coast, including a steam train ride across the moors.

• The Mallyan Spout Hotel , a family-friendly property surrounded by nature
• Victoria Hotel , a 100-year-old hotel overlooking Robin Hoods Bay

Best for: Historic atmosphere

Getting there: 1.5-hour train ride from London

Since Roman times, Bath has welcomed travelers looking to rejuvenate their body and soul. The Romans built baths surrounding a natural hot spring, and the Georgian Era sealed Bath’s reputation as a spa town. Today, Bath is a day trip away from London and is home to numerous museums, theaters, and tea houses. Stroll along an 18th-century bridge lined with shops , enjoy the fresh air at Royal Victoria Park , or admire the stained glass windows at Bath Abbey. Budding writers must pay a visit to the Jane Austen Centre , which celebrates Bath’s most famous resident. Don’t miss out on a mineral-rich soak in the Thermae Bath Spa —after all, you can’t leave Bath without taking a…bath.

• The Roseate Villa , a Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best hotel overlooking Henrietta Park
• Dukes Bath , a Georgian building situated on a famously handsome street

Best for: Dramatic landscapes

Getting there: 3-hour drive or train ride from London

From steep limestone ridges to rugged coastside cliffs, Dorset offers a variety of stunning landscapes fit for any countryside escape. With over half the county designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s best to spend a few days exploring Dorset. Lounge on clean golden sand at Bournemouth Beach or Weymouth Beach , admire the stunning Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door and go hunting for fossils along Jurassic Coast . Whatever you do in Dorset, you’ll feel like the main character of a Thomas Hardy novel .

• Summer Lodge , a luxurious countryside hotel boasting an indoor pool and tennis court
• The Kings Arms Hotel , housed in a restored Georgian building with a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant

8. Lake District

Best for: Quaint villages

Getting there: 1.5-hour drive from Manchester. Read our guide for the best ways to get from London to Lake District .

Most Britons looking for a countryside escape make a beeline for the Lake District . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to idyllic villages, majestic fells, and, of course, tranquil lakes. You can do a quick tour of all ten lakes on a full-day trip , but we recommend spending more time immersing yourself in the Lake District’s peaceful atmosphere. Windermere , home to England’s largest lake , is one of the district’s most popular towns, with a bustling High Street . Take a boat over to Ambleside and visit Beatrix Potter’s House , which looks like something out of the Peter Rabbit stories, or head over to Grange-over-Sands , a charming seaside town famous for its sea breeze and local spring water.

• Cedar Manor , a luxurious country house that offers a generous afternoon tea spread
• Grasmere Hotel , an elegant Victorian property overlooking a verdant garden

Recommended tours and activities

More like this:

• The best time to visit England: few crowds, great deals, and blissed-out weather
• 11 most beautiful places in England
• 8 best cities to visit in England and what you can do in each

19 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jun 8, 2023

Consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom (UK) has long been one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. For most travelers, like me, the country's appeal has as much to do with its diverse scenery as it does its rich cultural heritage. In fact, the best places to visit in the UK include everything from beautifully preserved country estates and picturesque castles to its many big city art galleries and museums.

You'll find one of the greatest pleasures of a UK vacation, however, is just how easy it is for you to explore this fascinating, diverse, and relatively small country. The UK could easily fit into the state of Texas with room to spare, so you can base yourself in a couple of cities and simply take a train, bus, or ferry to explore other areas.

One of my favorite day trips from London , for example, is to take the 90-minute train ride to beautiful Salisbury . Once there, you're only a short bus ride or tour away from one of the country's most recognizable attractions, Stonehenge. Want to hop between the Scottish cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow ? A one-hour train ride will deposit you in the heart of either city.

Sure, the UK can seem like a very busy travel destination. But plan your sightseeing adventures carefully with my list of the best places to visit in the UK and you'll have no problem making the most of your time.

1. London: The UK's All-in-One Destination

2. edinburgh: scotland's capital, 3. roman-era bath, 4. ancient stonehenge and medieval salisbury, 5. royal windsor, 6. idyllic england: the cotswolds, 7. the magical lake district, 8. medieval york and its minster, 9. the university towns of cambridge & oxford, 10. england's pilgrimage city: canterbury, 11. loch ness and inverness, 12. northern ireland's giant's causeway, 13. liverpool: home of the beatles, 14. manchester: england's football mad city, 15. cardiff: the capital of wales, 16. the channel islands, 17. glasgow & loch lomond, 18. snowdonia: wales' biggest mountains, 19. belfast.

While it's possible to plan a trip to the UK without actually visiting London, it's certainly not a recommendation I'd make. I typically begin my UK visits by spending a few days in the nation's sprawling capital while getting over my jet lag before venturing out to my planned final destination (or destinations).

There are plenty of attractions to keep you busy. Want to learn more about the UK's rich history? You're literally spoiled for choice here as London boasts more than 200 world-class museums and art galleries to explore.

In the City of London, the heart of the old Roman city, you'll find evidence of pretty much every period in history ever since. Some of the top attractions in London are located here, including the Tower of London .

Located beside the spectacular Tower Bridge on the banks of the River Thames , this former palace and prison includes highlights such as the iconic 1,000-year-old White Tower, with its fascinating displays of armor and weaponry, and the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels. I always make a return visit at sunrise or sunset to grab an iconic photo of the Tower of London framed by Tower Bridge.

If you're a fan of Britain's Royal Family, you'll want to head to Buckingham Palace , London's Royal home since Queen Victoria's reign. Here, you can enjoy the colorful pomp of the Changing of the Guard or even take a tour of the Palace's State Rooms. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book in advance as they're only open for a few weeks each year.

From here you can wander along the Thames to the city's Whitehall Road area. Here you'll find Big Ben and the Parliament Buildings , as well as Westminster Abbey, the scene of many a royal wedding.

Another area to visit in London is South Kensington, home to the city's best museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum , as well as the famous Harrods department store. Also check out Trafalgar Square , home to the iconic Nelson's Column and the National Portrait Gallery.

And be sure to make the most of London's excellent transport system. Whether you go by bus or by underground, the system's now so good that you can simply use a debit or credit card to tap in and out as you go. It really is very easy, and once you've mastered that famous map of the city's "Tube" network you'll be traveling like a Londoner.

One of the UK's most attractive cities, the capital city of Edinburgh is also one of the UK's most visited destinations. Popular for its many well-preserved historic buildings, Edinburgh is perhaps best known as the home of the majestic Edinburgh Castle .

Perched high above the old city on a rocky promontory, this 13th-century royal fortress includes highlights such as the famous One O'Clock Salute, held daily at Half Moon Battery, as well as the Scottish Crown Jewels in the Royal Palace . Also worth seeing are the Scottish National War Memorial and the famous Stone of Destiny , the Stone of Scone, which only returned to Scotland after being held for 700 years in London.

From the castle, I always find it easy to explore the other most important historic sites in the city. Follow your nose downhill from the castle to the Old Town via the famous Royal Mile , a delightful medieval cobbled street that's immensely fun to walk. Sure, there are plenty of the usual tacky tourist and souvenir shops, but skip these and look out for the area's fine old architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants, as well as trendy art galleries and studios.

Edinburgh Old Town is also where you'll find the splendid old Palace of Holyroodhouse . From here, I usually make my way to Princes Street and New Town before looping back around to the castle. This broad, more modern avenue was planned in the late 18th century and is extremely popular for its shopping and dining opportunities. It's also where you'll find attractions such as the Royal Botanical Garden and the National Gallery of Scotland.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Edinburgh

Although one of the UK's smaller cities, Bath more than makes up for its diminutive size with a multitude of things to see and do . Named after its famous Roman Baths, this beautiful city has been luring visitors like you and me to its healing waters for more than 2,000 years.

Gushing from three hot springs, the water-known to consist of 43 different minerals, hence its curative properties-travels upwards some 3,048 meters at a rate of 275,000 gallons per day, before spilling out at a consistent 46.5 degrees Celsius. It's a truly awesome sight, and also a little eerie to think that you're standing just feet away from the very hot springs that Romans and early Britons enjoyed some 2,000 years before you got here.

While it's not possible to bathe in the original Roman Baths (try it and you'll be arrested!), a number of nearby spas, most notably the modern Thermae Bath Spa , offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the city's famous waters. This must-do experience features a stunning rooftop pool using the same waters as the Roman Baths, and all with incredible views of city landmarks such as Bath Abbey .

In addition to its ancient history, Bath is also famous for its lovely Georgian architecture. The best examples can be seen along the magnificent, curved Royal Crescent, with its palatial townhomes. One of them, No.1 Royal Crescent , is now a museum that offers a fascinating peek into life during Georgian times.

While Bath is served by the same London rail service as the neighboring port city of Bristol , it's one of those increasingly forward-thinking cities that makes it easy for car drivers, too. My most recent visit in the summer of 2022 was via car, and I avoided traffic and hassle by parking at the extremely affordable Landsdowne Park and Ride facility on the outskirts of the city. Not only is it inexpensive with plenty of availability, but regular bus services will also whisk you away to the heart of the city in just 10 minutes.

Read More: From London to Bath: Best Ways to Get There

One of the planet's oldest World Heritage Sites , Stonehenge has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 4,500 years. It was believed to have been erected as a place of worship, but these days, the crowds consist of tourists drawn by the sheer scale of this magnificent monument to mankind's ingenuity.

It's a sprawling site, covering an area of more than 20 square kilometers and boasting a state-of-the-art visitor center. Here, you can catch a fascinating glimpse not only into the construction of Stonehenge but also its history since then.

But it does get busy, so be sure to plan well ahead and purchase a timed ticket for the day of your visit. Better still, splurge a little on one of the attraction's new VIP admission packages . This unforgettable experience guarantees your spot on a fun "Stone Circle Experience" that includes free time to wander the site on your own. The verdict? It's a must-do.

Be sure to also spend time exploring the nearby medieval city of Salisbury , located just 16 kilometers south of Stonehenge. You'll be rewarded with a chance to visit one of the country's most famous cathedrals, dating back to 1220 and home to an original Magna Carta .

Afterward, spend time wandering the old city center with its many fine churches and historic medieval architecture. Not only are there a number of first-rate places to stay here (I'm partial to the Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel for its central location and 4-star quality and cleanliness), but great little intimate eateries like the Cosy Club on Crane Street. The food here is home-cooked, locally sourced, tasty... and served in an extremely patriotic British setting.

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

The historic town of Windsor, conveniently located a short train ride west of Central London, offers plenty of fun attractions for tourists . In addition to its lovely Thames-side setting and the many medieval half-timbered buildings along its quaint old cobblestone laneways, it's also home to spectacular Windsor Castle , the most famous of the UK's royal castles.

This grand old castle has served as the summer residence of British royalty for more than a millennium. It was started by William the Conqueror in 1078 and is the world's largest inhabited castle. Highlights include the splendid State Apartments containing the Queen's Gallery and dining hall, each with magnificently painted ceilings and woodcarvings, and St. George's Chapel, famous as the home of the Knights and Ladies of the ancient Order of the Garter.

When you've had your fill of these historic buildings, be sure to also spend time exploring the castle's large and beautiful grounds, almost 10 kilometers long. You'll enjoy some truly memorable panoramic views over Windsor and its castle, and a number of picnic areas, some with barbecue grills, are available if you want to stop awhile.

Traveling with kids? Another area attraction worth visiting is Legoland Windsor . This fun family resort, set on 150 acres of parkland and just a short bus ride from Windsor town center, even boats a modern Lego-themed hotel if you're looking to make a weekend of it.

Also worth seeing is Royal Ascot , the UK's most famous horse-racing venue. While you might want to try to time your trip to coincide with the Royal Meeting held each June, you'll find yourself fighting often huge crowds, all dressed to the nines, here for what is after all one of the most important events on the country's social calendar.

Read More: From London to Windsor: Best Ways to Get There

Covering almost 1,287 square kilometers of charming countryside, the beautiful Cotswolds is undoubtedly one of the most photographed corners of England. Its unrivaled pastoral scenery has earned it a reputation as one of the most beautiful places in the UK, ranking highly on many a traveler's bucket list.

Easy to get to from London and close to the popular tourist attractions of Bath and Bristol , the Cotswolds includes some of the best parts of the counties of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire.

Why visit? Well, if you're anything like me, you're here to experience a true taste of rural English life and explore its many quaint villages . You'll want to include the idyllic village of Bourton-on-the-Water on your Cotswolds itinerary. Nicknamed the "Venice of the Cotswolds," this popular vacation spot boasts a charming river setting and countless well-preserved cottages, some dating back to the 15th century, and all just begging to be photographed.

One of the most popular ways to do this is via the area's extensive trail network, including the excellent 164-kilometer-long Cotswold Way. Other fun things to do include horseback riding and biking, or simply soaking up the history of popular market towns such as Castle Combe or Tetbury.

Located in the northeast of England not far from the border with Scotland , the spectacular Lake District in Cumbria covers an area of 1,448 square kilometers. Not only is it considered one of the most magical places to visit in the UK for its beautiful scenery, its reputation as a place of romance and great culture will forever be associated with its most famous former resident, Beatrix Potter.

It was Potter who in fact led the way with the conservation efforts that have preserved so much of the Lake District when she bequeathed her estate to the National Trust. Her one-time home near Sawrey, Hill Top , can and should be visited for its exhibits and artifacts.

Her legacy also set the stage for the establishment of Lake District National Park . Encompassing 12 of the country's largest lakes including Windermere and Ullswater, the two biggest and best known, this beautiful region is another famous place in the UK that's great to explore on foot. All told the park boasts more than 3,218 kilometers of hiking and walking trails, so be sure to pack your hiking boots.

Other things to do in the Lake District include visiting Scafell Pike , at 978 meters the highest mountain in England. And, of course, there is no end of picturesque towns and villages to explore, including Grasmere .

Read More: From London to the Lake District: Best Ways to Get There

One of northern England's most popular tourist destinations, the medieval city of York, long the ecclesiastical capital of the Church of England, boasts one of the country's most magnificent cathedrals. The country's largest medieval church, York Minster can trace its roots back to the spread of Christianity in the 3rd century, although the splendid present Gothic structure was built almost 1,000 years later.

One of the best ways to get to see this historic landmark is via an official guided tour . I recommend you book in advance, and spend a little time reviewing the available choices to find one best suited to your interests. I opted for the fascinating "Tower Trip" option, a little more expensive but well worth the cost for the magnificent city views.

Other highlights of a visit to York Minster include seeing its spectacular 14th-century stained glass windows, plus the richly decorated interiors of the choir and north transept. You'll also want to visit the crypt, which contains parts of the original 11th-century church the cathedral now stands on.

Another York landmark worth exploring is the historic City Walls . I make a point of strolling this nearly five-kilometer-long structure each and every time I visit the city. Not only is it good exercise, but it's also a fun way to circle around the old medieval city center without the crowds.

Along the way, you'll enjoy excellent views over The Shambles , a narrow 14th-century roadway that's famous for its fine old timber-framed buildings, many of which hang over the street below. It's also an area known for its many restaurants and tearooms, as well as its many boutique shops and galleries.

York also boasts a number of major museums, the most popular being the National Railway Museum . Highlights of this museum's vast collection include many fine old steam engines dating as far back as 1820, plus a unique collection of Royal Trains. The museum also offers an excellent afternoon tea experience in the historic Countess of York railway carriage, bookable in advance.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England
• From London to York: Best Ways to Get There

The UK has long been a center of learning, with two of its most famous university towns also ranking highly as tourist destinations. An easy commute north of London and just 128 kilometers apart, Cambridge and Oxford have for centuries been rivals for the title of the country's top academic establishment, a rivalry celebrated during the famous rowing event, The Boat Race , which takes place each spring on the River Thames .

Despite this generally good-spirited rivalry, each location offers plenty of attractions to make them worthwhile additions to your UK travel itinerary. Highlights of a visit to Cambridge include the chance to wander the UK's largest collection of preserved historic buildings, many of them located within an easy walk of Cambridge University ' s 31 colleges, the oldest of which was founded in 1284.

In addition to touring the stunning college grounds (only a handful of the university's buildings offer tours), you should also take a punt along the River Cam. This must-do activity is something of a Cambridge ritual, and chances are you'll even be "punted" along by a university student willing to share a little of their college experiences.

As with most popular tourist destinations, however, a little advance planning will ensure you find a reputable company for your punting tour. Licensed operators to consider include Cambridge Punt Company , which also offers a private romantic evening tour; and Scholars Punting , which features a fun picnic hamper package worth considering. In both cases, you can keep the cost down by joining a shared tour.

Oxford University's 38 colleges are equally fun to explore. These historic old places of learning are each set around a quadrangle and several inner courtyards along with chapels, dining halls, libraries, and student residences, some of which offer unique tourist accommodation packages, too. Like most UK tourist sites, they do get extremely busy in summer so be sure to book your visit in advance if you can to avoid disappointment.

Other Oxford highlights include the Carfax Tower, with its fine views over the city center, and the many fine old buildings of the town's High Street .

Pay a visit to historic Canterbury in Kent, and you'll soon discover why this beautiful city continues to be such a draw for visitors to the UK.

An easy hour's train ride from central London, Canterbury has been a draw for visitors for centuries. The first visitors were religious pilgrims who have in fact been visiting for more than 1,500 years, ever since St. Augustine first started converting pagan Anglo-Saxons to Christianity here in AD 597.

The city's most famous attraction is Canterbury Cathedral , the home church of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning cathedral offers plenty to see, from the intricately carved masonry of its exterior to its magnificent interior, a highlight of which is the beautiful choir with its statues of six English kings. Also of note are the exquisite Miracle Windows, dating from the 12th century and depicting scenes from the life of murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket .

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the pedestrianized area of Old City Canterbury with its many preserved, historic timber-framed buildings, particularly along Mercery Lane. Be sure to include the excellent Canterbury Roman Museum on your itinerary. It was built around the remains of an original Roman townhouse and its unique mosaic.

Read More: From London to Canterbury: Best Ways to Get There

Despite the fact that the legends of mythical monsters have largely been debunked (just don't tell the locals), spectacular Loch Ness remains an extremely popular tourist attraction for travelers heading to Scotland. While it's unlikely you'll encounter any monsters, you will, however, be rewarded with seeing some of the UK's most beautiful scenery.

Highlights of Loch Ness include the ruins of Urquhart Castle . Set overlooking the loch, it's one of Scotland's largest fortifications, with the current structure dating from the 14th century. For those wanting to learn more about the area's many legends, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition recounts its history, along with that of its monster, including details of ongoing searches for the elusive creature.

A little farther north is Inverness. This lovely city boasts numerous excellent attractions, including Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and the late 19th-century St. Andrew's Cathedral.

History buffs should also check out the Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre . It was in Culloden in 1746 that the English and Scots fought their last battle and where the fate of Scotland as a British dominion was determined. Also of interest are the gravestones of warriors from the Scottish clans, as well as the six-meter-high Memorial Cairn erected in 1881 to commemorate the battle.

• From Glasgow to Loch Ness: Best Way to Get There
• From Edinburgh to Loch Ness: Best Ways to Get There

It's sometimes a little too easy to forget that the UK includes a tiny little piece of Ireland . Northern Ireland, consisting of the northeast corner of the "Emerald Isle," can easily be included on a trip to either country and is well worth taking the time to explore.

My favorite among the many Northern Ireland attractions worth visiting is the magnificent Giant's Causeway, a stunningly beautiful natural feature that looks anything but natural. Just a short drive from the capital of Belfast , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of unusual columns of layered basalt that jut upwards out of the sea and shoreline like some giant's staircase, hence their name.

All told, there are some 4,000 of these polygonal-shaped steps to see and clamber over. Formed over 60 million years ago during a period of intense volcanic activity, it's a truly impressive sight, and easy to see how local legends of giants could so easily have sprung up as a result.

A modern visitor center has been opened here and provides fascinating details about the reality and the myths behind this bucket-list attraction. Guided tours can be arranged, and be sure to make use of the audio guides that are provided with admission. Tickets can be booked online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Read More: From Dublin to Giant's Causeway: Best Ways to Get There

Liverpool , under three hours away from London by rail, offers plenty of cultural excitement for the curious traveler. It's also well-known for its role in giving rise to the English music legacy, not least because of its association with the Beatles .

Music fans are drawn here first and foremost for "Fab Four"-related attractions, such as The Beatles Story located in the renovated Albert Docks area. Also worth seeing are the famous Cavern Club, where the band made its debut in 1961, as well as the former homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Numerous walking tours and bus tours of Beatles sites are also readily available.

Other great reasons to visit Liverpool include its many historic buildings, lovely gardens, and parks, as well as great museums such as the Merseyside Maritime Museum , the Museum of Liverpool , and world-class art galleries like the Walker Art Gallery and the Tate Gallery . These are all located in the city's revitalized Royal Albert Dock area, an historic area enjoyed exploring on foot.

Thanks to its international airport, Manchester is often the first stop for many visitors from North America planning to explore northern England, Scotland, or Wales. It's especially popular for fans of the sport of football (that's soccer to those from the US, including Ted Lasso!).

Manchester is, in fact, home to two top football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. Both are well represented in the must-visit National Football Museum , as are other popular teams from around the UK. Along with displays of memorabilia, trophies, and clothing, fun short movies explain the history of the sport and capture many of its defining moments.

Be sure to also visit at least one Manchester club's stadium, too. The best known is Manchester United's Old Trafford grounds, though Manchester City's Etihad Stadium is also worth seeing. Both offer fascinating tours and behind-the-scenes access. Better still, try to visit when there's a game on!

Other notable places to visit in Manchester include Castlefield , popular for its well-preserved Victorian houses, canals, and Roman ruins. It's also popular to explore on foot for its many old warehouses now serving as trendy shops, hotels, and restaurants.

If you've got time left in your Manchester itinerary, be sure to include Manchester Cathedral and the historic Town Hall. There's also a rich cultural scene that includes museums (Museum of Science and Industry), galleries (Manchester Art Gallery), and entertainment (Chinatown).

Despite being much smaller than both Scotland and England, Wales is home to some of the UK's top attractions. Interesting things to do here range from exploring the breathtaking scenery and enjoying outdoor adventures in its national parks to visiting its historic castles.

One of the best places to sample a little of everything that Wales has to offer is the country's capital, Cardiff , with most travelers beginning their visit at Cardiff Castle . Located in the middle of the city and built on the ruins of an ancient Roman fort, parts of the current structure date as far back as 1090, with much of it restored in the 1800s. Highlights include the State Apartments, the Clock Tower, the Chapel, and a spectacular Banqueting Hall with its fine murals.

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the city's many old Victorian shopping arcades, the best of which can be found around The Hayes. You'll find everything from second-hand record stores to boutique clothing shops and custom jewelers to browse.

Also worth checking out is Cardiff Bay. One of the UK's largest redevelopment projects, this vast area is now home to numerous fine restaurants, theaters, galleries, and shopping opportunities, many of them housed in former warehouses on lovely Mermaid Quay.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

Although just 14 miles away from mainland France , the Channel Islands have been a British territory since 1066. One of the most picture-perfect destinations in the country, these attractive small islands not only boast a milder climate but offer great places to visit that don't get the large crowds like other parts of the country.

The Channel Islands comprise Jersey (the largest island), Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and Herm (the smallest), along with numerous even tinier islands. The intrepid traveler will also be rewarded with everything from quaint seaside towns and villages to explore, historic castles and ruins (sometimes one and the same), as well as outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting.

As for getting here, the Channel Islands are well served by ferries from mainland England, as well as short flights from most major British airports.

Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

The Scottish city of Glasgow is a great place to visit for those who enjoy a mix of cultural attractions and the great outdoors. Once you've had your fix of historic sites such as Glasgow Cathedral and the museums of the University of Glasgow, among others, head out to explore nearby Loch Lomond .

Loch Lomond was dubbed "The Queen of Scottish Lakes" by famed writer Walter Scott, and it's here you'll see Ben Lomond and the beautiful Trossachs countryside. Trossachs National Park now includes Loch Lomond itself and covers some 720 square miles of prime hiking and biking country.

It's also popular for its fishing and boating, including sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. For true outdoor enthusiasts, Loch Lomond is the perfect spot for a "wild camping" adventure. Not only is it safe, you're never too far away from people if you need them. And, of course, you'll agree that the scenery here is even more beautiful when you have it all to yourself.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Glasgow

Not only does the Snowdonia region of Wales boast some of the country's most remarkable scenery — and that's saying something, as it really is a beautiful country — it's also home to the UK's second largest national park: Snowdonia National Park. Spread across nearly 830 square miles, the park is as big a draw for adventurers as it is for those seeking a pleasant and not-too-exhausting day trip.

If you're a hiker you can choose from a variety of trails that wind their way up (and down) Mount Snowdon itself, spending a full day tackling as difficult a route to the top as you desire. And those like me who want to see the spectacular views from the top without all the hard work can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway .

Considered one of the world's top scenic railways, the journey starts in Llanberis before tackling steep inclines up to the "Eryri" visitor center at the top of Snowdon.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Snowdonia

Once omitted from the itineraries of most travelers to the UK, Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, has in recent years become something of a must-see destination. Not only are there numerous historic attractions and cultural experiences to enjoy, but the city's people have the same welcoming attitude that the European nation of Ireland to the south is known for.

One of the city's top claims to fame was its role in the building of the ill-fated ocean liner, RMS Titanic . This connection is celebrated and memorialized in the city's Titanic Quarter , home to the impressive Titanic Belfast attraction. Here, you can explore interactive exhibits that deal not only with the vessel, but the thousands of people involved in its construction and, ultimately, its sinking.

More on England

Planning an England trip in 2024? Consider these 16 top places to visit

Feb 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Gracious Bath is an excellent place to immerse yourself in England’s history and beauty © gowithstock / Shutterstock

The story of  England  stretches back more than 5000 years (and likely many more). Which means its impossible to escape the past here.

As you wander its historic urban centers, mysterious monoliths, misty landscapes and rugged  coastlines  and national parks , you’ll discover a country filled with unparalleled places to visit that are are the more compelling thanks to all those who have visited them before.

As you plan a trip to England this year, here’s our list of 16 historic, exciting and all-around fabulous highlights to consider.

1. The Seven Sisters 

While  Dover ’s iconic white cliffs grab the most attention, the colossal chalky walls of the Seven Sisters are a more spectacular affair, a four-mile roller-coaster of sheer white rock stretching along the Sussex shore and overlooking the waters of the English Channel. It forms an impressive southern border to the South Downs National Park , and is most dramatic at the towering headland of Beachy Head . Hikes through the grassy clifftop fields provide wide sea views, breathtaking in every sense.

Local tip:  Stop for a breather at the tiny seaside hamlet of Birling Gap, where the secluded beach is a sun trap popular with locals and walkers.

Oxford  lets visitors feel close to the brilliant minds and august institutions that have made this city famous across the globe. This rarefied world comes to life in the cobbled lanes and ancient quads where cycling students and eccentric academics roam. The beautiful college buildings and stunning architecture have changed little over the centuries, coexisting with a lively, modern, working city. As befits a city of students and professors, Oxford is one of the last bastions of the great British pub, with irresistible old watering holes dotted all over its central lanes and alleyways. 

3. Cambridge

In England’s other great historic university city, Cambridge , you can tour a  college , and spend time marveling at the intricate vaulting of King’s College Chapel . But no trip to Cambridge is complete without an attempt to take a punt (flat-bottomed boat) along the River Cam by the picturesque Backs , the leafy, green lawns behind the city's finest colleges – an experience that offers the best views of the exquisite architecture. Polish off the day with a pint at one of Cambridge’s many rustic pubs. 

In a nation packed with pretty cities, Bath  stands out as the belle of the ball. Founded by the Romans, who established the spa resort of Aquae Sulis to take advantage of the area’s hot springs , Bath hit its stride in the 18th century, when the rich industrialist Ralph Allen and architects John Wood the Elder and John Wood the Younger oversaw the city’s transformation into a model of Georgian architecture at its most refined . Bath is awash with golden stone townhouses, sweeping green crescents and Palladian mansions, along with appealing pubs and restaurants, and you’ll take great pleasure in plunging in. 

5. Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the country's most dramatic Roman ruins, a 2000-year-old procession of abandoned forts, garrisons, towers and milecastles marching across the wild and lonely landscape of northern England. While the Romans built the fortification to defend and control its territory, this edge-of-empire barrier also symbolized the boundary of civilized order in the ancient world: to the north of the Roman settlement lay the unruly land of the marauding Celts. Near Newcastle  you can visit Segedunum , the wall’s last stronghold, for an insight into life during Roman times.

Planning tip:  Hiking the full 84-mile distance coast to coast along the national trail takes around a week. If you have less time and your own car, you may want to select from a few of the wall's  highlights .

With its Roman and Viking heritage, ancient city walls and maze of cobbled streets, York is a living record of English history. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider’s web of “snickelways” (narrow alleys), each one the focus of a ghost story or historical character. At the city’s heart lies the immense, awe-inspiring York Minster , the biggest medieval cathedral in all of northern Europe, and one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world. Admire feats of engineering of a more recent vintage at the National Railway Museum , the world’s largest collection of historic locomotives.

York’s long history and rich heritage are woven into virtually every brick and beam, and the modern, tourist-oriented city – with its myriad museums, restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs – is a carefully maintained showcase of that heritage.

Local tip: You’ll find some of the finest views of York from its old city walls, particularly the bucolic section behind the Minster. 

7. The Peak District

Curiously, you won’t find many peaks in the Peak District . You will find blissful miles of tumbling moorland, plunging valleys, eroded gritstone crags, lush farmland and ancient pocket-sized villages. This beautiful landscape attracts a veritable army of outdoor enthusiasts – cyclists, hikers, cavers and rock climbers – on summer weekends, while those seeking more relaxing enjoyment can admire the rural market and famous puddings of Bakewell, the Victorian pavilions of spa-town Buxton, and the architectural drama of Chatsworth House – the “Palace of the Peak.”

8. Brighton

Barely an hour’s train ride from the capital, the seaside city of Brighton has a quirky character that’s completely its own. Overlooking the English Channel on England’s pebbly south coast, this is a city that's long been known for its oddball, alternative character. The warren of streets known as the Lanes is a good place to soak up the vibe, with vegan cafes, espresso bars, chaotic pubs, record stores and bric-a-brac shops. (Browsers will be in heaven at local institution Snooper’s Paradise .) You'll also find the UK ’s biggest queer scene here, and the region’s best small clubs. The highlight for the sightseeing visitor is the Royal Pavilion , a 19th-century party palace built by the Prince Regent, who kicked off Brighton’s love of the outlandish.

9. Stonehenge

Mysterious and compelling, Stonehenge is England’s most famous ancient site . Even though people have been drawn to this myth-laden ring of boulders for more than 5000 years, we still don’t know quite why it was built. An ultramodern makeover at the ancient site has brought an impressive visitor center and the closure of an intrusive road (now restored to grassland). The result is a strong sense of historical context, with dignity and mystery returned to an archaeological gem.

Most visitors gaze at the approximately 25-ton stones from behind the perimeter fence, yet with enough planning, you can arrange an early-morning or evening tour and gain access to the inner ring itself. In the slanting sunlight, away from the crowds, it’s an ethereal place. This is an experience that stays with you.

10. Stratford-upon-Avon

The pretty town of Stratford-upon-Avon is where William Shakespeare was born and later shuffled off this mortal coil. Today, its tight knot of Tudor streets form a living map of Shakespeare’s life. Huge crowds of thespians and theater lovers come to take in a play at the famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre . Bard fans will love visiting the five historic houses owned by Shakespeare and his relatives and  the schoolroom where he was educated, before taking a respectful detour to the old stone church where he was laid to rest.

11. Liverpool

It’s hard not to be infected by Liverpudlians’ love for their hometown. The love endured despite decades of decay and all manner of social ills – finding its expression in a renowned gallows humor and an obsession with football. With some of the most passionate crowds in the country, taking in a game at either Liverpool FC or Everton FC is a rite of passage here.

Outside of the stadium, the rejuvenated waterfront is once again the heart of Liverpool . The focal point is Albert Dock, an iconic docklands flanked by protected buildings, including a batch of top museums. The Merseyside Maritime Museum and the International Slavery Museum ensure the good and bad sides of Liverpool’s history are explored in equal measure, while the Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Story museum celebrate popular culture and the city’s most famous musical sons (still).

12. The Cotswolds

A tangle of impossibly quaint villages of rose-clad cottages and honey-colored stone, The Cotswolds  is a region that spreads over six English counties. It’s a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and its most wonderful quality is that no matter where you go or how lost you get, you’ll still end up in a spot with a charming village green, a pub with sloping floors and fine ales, and a view of the lush green hills. Crisscrossed by long-distance trails including the 102-mile Cotswold Way , these gentle yet dramatic hills are perfect for walking, cycling and horse-riding.

Local tip: It’s easy to leave the crowds behind and find your very own slice of medieval England here – and some of the best boutique hotels in the country.

A little weird, occasionally weather-beaten and all-around wonderful, the classic northern seaside town of Whitby has haunted lanes, fossil-hunting and arguably England’s finest fish-and-chips. The huddle of 18th-century fisher’s cottages along the East Cliff are testament to its longtime role as a busy commercial and fishing port: it was here that 18th-century explorer Captain James Cook earned his sea legs. Atop the West Cliff, a sandy beach, amusement arcades and promenading holidaymakers show Whitby’s beach-resort side.

Keeping a watchful eye over the town and the River Esk that divides it is an atmospheric ruined abbey , the inspiration and setting for part of Bram Stoker’s Gothic horror story Dracula . But tales of witchery and ghostly legends have haunted Whitby ever since Anglo-Saxon St Hilda landed here to found a monastic community in 657 CE.

Planning tip: The town embraces its pseudo-sinister reputation, which culminates in two hugely successful Goth Weekends each year.

14. The Lake District

William Wordsworth and his Romantic friends were the first to champion the charms of the Lake District  – and it's not hard to see what stirred them. Already the UK’s most popular national park, the Lake District also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, in recognition of its long history of hill-farming. But for most people it’s the chance to hike the humpbacked fells and drink in the gorgeous scenery that keeps them returning year after year.

The region is filled with outdoor pursuits, from lake cruises to mountain walks – excursions that help reveal why the region has such deep literary connections. In addition to Wordsworth, writers who found inspiration here include Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Arthur Ransome and Beatrix Potter.

15. The Eden Project

A cross between a lunar landing station and a James Bond villain’s lair, the gigantic hemispherical greenhouses of the Eden Project  have become a symbol of Cornwall ’s renaissance. Built in an abandoned clay pit near St Austell to mark the start of the new millennium, and now considered one of Britain’s modern architectural wonders, the Eden Project aims to explore issues of environment and conservation, and point the way to a cleaner, greener future for us all.

Exhibits cover everything from global warming to rubber production and chocolate-making. The glass-domed “biomes” recreate major world climate systems in microcosm, from the lush jungles of the Amazon rainforest (complete with treetop walkway winding through the canopy) to the olive trees, citrus groves and colorful flowers of the Mediterranean, South Africa and California. It’s incredibly impressive – not to mention educational, and inspiring, too.

Shoulder-deep in history, London ’s rich seams of eye-opening antiquity appear at every turn. The city’s architecture pens a beguiling biography, and a multitude of buildings – the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey , Big Ben – are internationally recognizable landmarks. It’s also a tireless innovator of art and culture, a city of ideas and imagination. This legacy is enshrined at world-class institutions such as the British Museum , Natural History Museum  and the Science Museum , as well as such world-leading art galleries as the  Tate Modern , Tate Britain , the National Gallery  and the recently reopened National Portrait Gallery , all of which are free to visit. 

Local tip:  However you budget your time and money in London, make sure you take in a show. Big names perform on  the West End (London’s equivalent of Broadway), and on the South Bank at the National Theatre  and  the Old Vic . Smaller theaters from the Almeida to the Lyric Hammersmith are places to discover up-an-coming talent.

This article was first published April 2021 and updated February 2024

Explore related stories

Jul 15, 2022 • 11 min read

Yorkshire is awash with scenic landscapes, historic architecture and agreeable country pubs. Here are the top things to do in God’s Own County.

Jun 26, 2020 • 6 min read

Apr 5, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Mar 14, 2024 • 16 min read

Mar 1, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 25, 2024 • 13 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 7 min read

Dec 27, 2023 • 8 min read

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Czech Republic
• Switzerland
• Philippines
• South Korea
• United States
• Australia and Oceania

No products in the cart.

• Destinations

Best Places To Visit In The Scenic English Countryside

England is a riveting country with fascinating cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Liverpool, but it’s also a fantastic place to escape the urban noise. The English countryside attracts all sorts of holidaymakers seeking sparkling lakes, sandy beaches, rolling hills, moorlands, limestone cliffs, and other unbelievable natural scenery.

Travelers in search of serenity will find some of the most peaceful surroundings just a short drive or train ride away. Far from the big city, you’ll waltz into quaint villages each with their own distinct character.

Exploring the different regions and various national parks let you discover a whole other side of this beautiful country. Kick start your vacation and check out six of the most breathtaking places to visit in the English countryside!

1. Peak District National Park

Hikers will be in heaven in this magnificent stretch of landscapes on the doorstep of Manchester. Dense forests, tranquil rivers, rocky limestone dales, and quaint villages make Peak District one of England’s most popular destinations for nature enthusiasts.

The central location of the park makes it easy to access from the majority of the country. Visitors can hike or cycle from the rugged limestone of White Peak to the brightly colored moorlands of Dark Peak.  

Best Villages to Visit in the Peak District

Ashford-in-the-water.

Highlighted by the beautiful Sheepwash Bridge, Ashford-in-the-Water is decorated with charming old stone houses, medieval churches, and located near the picturesque Monsal Dale.

Walkers and cyclists make a beeline for this High Peak district village that is situated adjacent to Hope Valley and engulfed by rolling hills and limestone gorges.

Situated in the valley of the River Sett, Hayfield is a delightful base to explore Kinder Scout, the highest point in the Peak District.

2. Lake District National Park

Nestled in the northwest corner of England, Lake District National Park is the premier destination in the country for climbing craggy cliffs and gazing at picturesque lakes. Scenic hiking trails and bridleways cross spectacular landscapes carved by millions of years of glacial erosion.  

Lake Windermere is one of dozens of ribbon lakes that has captivated visitors for decades. Summer days are spent enjoying calming boat rides or serene kayaking excursions along the shimmering waters.  

Best Villages to Visit in the Lake District

Just a short jaunt from the iconic Windermere Lake, this scenic tourist hub hosts a bevy of activities such as hiking, steamboat cruises, museums, ancient ruins, and Victorian architecture.

Poets and nature enthusiasts have been inspired for centuries by this market town’s heavenly location between Skiddaw mountain and Derwentwater, a wide range of artistic shops, and charming pubs.

This cozy village stands out with its Viking roots, and a stroll into the surrounding countryside takes you to storied Dales Way footpath and England’s highest railway station.  

3. The Cotswolds

Roughly two hours outside of London, the Cotswolds are home to some of England’s most delightful villages. The sweeping green hills and lovely gardens create a wonderful atmosphere to relax.

The Cotswolds are not short on history and outside of the fairy-tale like villages, you will find extravagant landmarks such as Sudeley Castle & Gardens and Blenheim Palace.  

If you are up for one of the most fulfilling hikes in England, the Cotswold Way stretches across the captivating countryside filled with beautiful valleys, temperate grasslands, and medieval market towns.

Best Villages to Visit in the Cotswolds

Bourton-on-the-water.

Often nicknamed the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds,’ the atmospheric village leaves visitors spellbound with its gorgeous bridges, medieval stone houses, delightful shops, and jovial tea rooms.

Chipping Campden

The market town was famous for being the epicenter of the country’s wool trade during the Middle Ages but is now home to numerous architectural landmarks that have been preserved for centuries.

Painswick Known as the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’ for its preserved mellow stone architecture and surrounding hills, Painswick is an ideal base for countryside walks and bird watching.

4. Cornwall

For beach lovers looking for the ultimate sandy escape in England, Cornwall is the place to be. The southwestern tip of the country is a haven for seaside activities including surfing, swimming, and sailing. On a sunny day, sprawl out underneath the English sun and relax on the white sand shores of the rugged coastline.

For more stunning views of the enchanting waters off the peninsula, hike to the top of the cliffs for mesmerizing imagery of the charming town and its harbour.

Best Villages to Visit in Cornwall

Situated at the mouth of the River Fowey, this seaside village is known for scenic boat trips, rugged coastline hiking trails, elegant shops, and its bustling harbor.

With its sandy shores, crystalline waters, vibrant arts scene, and lively harbor, St Ives has attracted beachgoers to its picturesque location for centuries.

Although lacking the amenities of other Cornish villages, Sennen makes up for it tenfold with its epic scenery of white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs.

5. Yorkshire Dales

Venturing back towards northern England, the Yorkshire Dales boast some of the country’s most diverse landscapes. Around its charming stone villages, the natural scenery enthralls hikers and cyclists with its scenic valleys and wide-stretching moors of every shade of green.

The endless paths will whisk you away to serene waterfalls, stone-laden walls, colorful flowers in bloom, and remarkable limestone. Malham cove and Aysgarth Falls are two of the most breathtaking natural landmarks of the region.

Visitors can witness the underground beauty of the Yorkshire Dales by exploring its extensive cave system.   

Best Villages to Visit in Yorkshire Dales

Kirkby lonsdale.

Adjacent to Yorkshire Dales National Park, this charming market town hosts an eclectic mix of shops, fabulous eateries, cozy cafés, and authentic stone cottages.

Surrounded by miles of greenery, Hawes attracts a bevy of nature lovers with a tranquil river flowing through town, close to England’s tallest one-drop waterfall, and being the country’s highest town.

Appletreewick

Medieval homes line the single thoroughfare of this tiny hamlet, and its scenic hills attract a bevy of trekkers and cyclists to take in the spectacular views.

6. Northumberland National Park

Stretching along the Scottish border, Northumberland is England’s northernmost national park and boasts miles of unspoiled wilderness. The area is one of England’s least populated and an adventure here lets you intimately connect with nature.

History buffs can walk the boundaries of Hadrian’s Wall, the defense barrier dating back to the time of the ancient Romans. Gaze at the rolling Cheviots that separate England and Scotland, see some of England’s most beautiful waterfalls, or venture outdoors after dark for a magical night beneath the stars.

Best Villages to Visit in Northumberland

The peaceful village is surrounded by sand dunes and beautiful beaches, and the legendary Bamburgh Castle was the seat of the Kings of Northumbria.

The town echoes Roman history, and its streets host one of the region’s top assortments of independent shops.

Wander the harbor of this coastal village and check out a wide range of shops and restaurants before sailing to the Farne Islands, a bird watcher’s paradise. 

Long-Distance Walking Paths

England may not have towering snow-capped peaks dotting the landscape, but its countryside is filled with lengthy walking trails that let you explore every inch of the landscape.

Although there are dozens of trails across each region, here are three of the most storied long-distance routes.

Coast to Coast Walk – 182 miles (293 km)

This incredible voyage stretches from the Irish Sea to the North Sea across Northern England and explores the unspoiled landscape of three national parks: Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and North York Moors.

South West Coast Path – 630 miles (1,014 km)

England’s longest and most cherished walking trail takes you around the country’s South West Peninsula, showcases the awe-inspiring Cornish scenery, and wanders into lots of coastal towns.

Pennine Way – 268 miles (431 km)

Famed for being one of England’s most strenuous long-distance walking routes, this journey on the country’s backbone courses through Peak District National Park, the South Pennines, Yorkshire Dales National Park, the North Pennines, Northumberland National Park, and briefly across the Scottish border.

Featured Image by  MikesPhotos  from  Pixabay

Related Articles

Budva Montenegro – Your Balkan Beach Getaway

• Uncategorized

7 Best Places to Visit in Albania

7 Top Things to Do in North Macedonia

Leave your thought here cancel reply.

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

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

Uncover the world

• Work with us
• Privacy Policy
• Get in Touch
• Help center
• How it works

Email: [email protected]

Copyright Spottico Magazine @2023 · All rights reserved

Privacy Overview

Sending login info,please wait...

Sending info,please wait...

Sending register info,please wait...

• See & Do

Accessibility Links

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)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

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

Advertisement

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 .

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

Best Rural Places to Visit in the UK: 10 Beautiful British Countryside Spots

2020 has certainly been a tough one, and after this year, we are all in need of some serious R&R. Staycations are great of course, but if you’re dead-set on finding a relaxing place to detox and de-stress, it’s still possible close to home. The best rural places to visit in the UK offer both peace and (nature) adventures – plus points on being eco-friendly!

From idyllic country villages to beautiful coastal paths, check out our top picks for the most beautiful countryside in England, Wales and Scotland. We’ve chosen these stunning natural locations for two reasons. One, because they are IDEAL for getting away from the crowds. And two for their famous breath-taking scenery.  We’ve chosen a combination of coast and country Vs small cities, all perfect for anyone looking to get away from the masses.

Psst! If you’re looking for amazing countryside near London, then you’ll want to discover the best 20 weekend trips from London .

The Best Rural Places to Visit in the UK: Countryside & Counties

#1 barafundle bay, pembrokeshire.

Located amongst the delightful Pembrokeshire countryside, Barafundle Bay has frequently been voted the best beach in Britain. Moreover, it is often the only UK beach to reach the world’s top ten list. This stunning east-facing unspoiled location is truly spectacular, with golden sands and crystal clear water.

The area is beautifully isolated but only reachable after a half-mile trek over the cliffs. As a result, it’s unfortunately not wheelchair or pushchair accessible due to the number of steps leading down to the coast.

#2 Isle of Skye, Scotland

The largest of the Inner Hebrides, the Isle of Skye, is 50 miles long and home to dramatic scenery around every corner. The capital is Portree, and there are a number of quaint villages dotted across the island. As well as providing the opportunity to spot plenty of local wildlife, the Isle of Skye is a world-class destination for walkers and climbers. There’s something to suit every level and ability.

The Isle of Skye is currently open to visitors. However, strict restrictions are in place, and some businesses have remained closed. (October 2020)

#3 Cornwall

From Padstow to Newquay, the region of Cornwall is one of the most unspoiled areas in the UK. With iconic English seaside scenery and a wealth of hiking trails, this is easily one of the best rural places to visit in the UK.  If you enjoy hiking, stroll along the Cornwall Coast Path and check out the Camel Trail. Or have fun in and out of the water at the Fowey Estuary. There are miles upon miles of coastline, as well as gentle green hills, dense woodlands, and excellent country pubs.

If you’re in Cornwall than the view alone is worth the journey to Marazion. It’s a town with a miniature island called St Michael’s Mount, just off shore, ensuring a very picturesque view. If you do get a photo shot of a lifetime, try sending it as a printed postcard…

By the way, Cornwall also ranks at #37 on our 20+20 bucket list destinations to visit in 2020.

#4 Snowdonia, North Wales

Known as the outdoor adventure capital of North Wales, Snowdonia National Park is home to breath-taking rugged Welsh mountains. In fact, Snowdonia is home to the highest peak in Wales, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the Heritage Coast.

There is tons of accommodation to choose from amongst this spectacular setting, along with cute seaside towns and villages. Ride the train to the summit of the mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding Welsh countryside.

#5 The Lake District, Cumbria

One of the UK’s most famous rural getaways, the Lake District is not only one of the best rural places to visit in the UK, but it is also world-famous. This UNESCO world heritage site is home to England’s longest lake, Windermere, which is over ten miles long.

Cumbria is a predominantly rural county: It’s famous for containing some of England’s highest mountains and some of the biggest lakes. Situated in the far northwest corner of the country, the market town of Keswick is the most popular urban tourist destination.

#6 Brecon Beacons, South Wales

With miles upon miles of hills and rugged welsh landscapes, the Brecon Beacons consists of two national trails and a huge national park. It is one of the best rural places in the UK to get away from it all. People travel from all over the country and the world to climb to the top of Pen Y Fan for truly spectacular views. You may also want to check out the National Show Caves Centre for Wales; a huge cave complex, dinosaur park, and farm.

#7 The Peak District, Derbyshire

One of the UK’s most visited national parks, the Peak District spans 555 square miles amongst the Pennines’ southernmost hills and contains some of the most famous trails in the country.

The area is world-renowned for its beautiful landscapes and wide-open spaces. Visit the stately home Chatsworth House, stroll around the picturesque Ladybower Reservoir, or discover more about the history of the area at Haddon Hall; the former seat of the Dukes of Rutland.

The Best Rural Places to Visit in the UK: Cities and Towns

#8 chester, cheshire.

Picturesque gardens, stately homes, and traditional country pubs make Cheshire one of the best rural places to visit in the UK. Take a stroll in Tegg’s Nose Country Park, clamber up Runcorn Hill, and check out the faux castle ruins at Mow Cop.

As an added bonus, kids will love meeting the furry residents at the world-famous Chester Zoo! The zoo is currently open, with social distancing measures in place (October 2020).

#9 Pendle, Lancashire

Famous for the witch trials of the 16th Century, Pendle is a beautiful Lancashire town set amongst the wild countryside. This untamed rural area is steeped with history and legend. Spirits are believed to roam the area. For those looking to enjoy a long-distance trek, the circular 43-mile Pendle Way takes you through some of the most famous witch-related locations and up to the top of the hill.

There are also a number of country inns and local pubs along the way to provide respite.

#10 Bury St Edmonds, Suffolk

With a combination of seascapes and countryside, Suffolk has been a popular tourist destination for centuries. With a picturesque 50-mile coastline, beautiful quaint villages, and Ancient Ruins, this East Anglican County offers an idyllic location for your rural getaway.

Bury St Edmonds is a popular place to stay, with its beautiful Abbey Gardens, museums, pubs, and 9th-century Cathedral. Alternately, travel to Southwold for sandy beachside fun, Aldeburgh for food, art, and culture, or Dunwich for walking in the countryside.

Found the best rural places for you to visit in the UK?

Good! Enjoy your relaxing holiday and stay safe!

And if you’re still dreaming of far-flung destinations, then feed your wanderlust with these 10 travel movies . (Or for bookworms, these 10 adventure books .)

Searching for your next destination…?

Discover our ultimate country travel guides…

Hiya, I’m Maud. I’m an English girl who's moved to Berlin - because who wouldn’t fall in love with a country which has words like ‘Kummerspeck’ hidden around every corner... I love traveling and finding out the quirks of each country - and what better way to remember them than on a postcard?

Related Posts

Dresden and saxon switzerland – the perfect weekend trip, vacation in carinthia: experience the sunny side of the austrian alps, off to a texas adventure: our trip to san antonio, fredericksburg and bandera – part 2.

Amazing blog, has been really informative.

20 Enchanting Places to Discover in Yorkshire

One of the most popular places to visit “up North”, and with good reason, this fiercely proud and historic county is also known for its unspoiled, rugged beauty.

It’s an area filled with charm and bags of character, from flat caps and tea shops to feisty locals to pints of bitter, and I’m personally a huge fan. This place is seriously atmospheric! It’s a tough choice, but I’ve narrowed my favourite beauty spots…

This beautiful historic city is the jewel in the crown of this wonderful county. It’s known for its Roman and Viking roots, its impressive ancient walls, the dungeons, and numerous museums (the National Railway Museum , York Castle Museum, and York Art Gallery are just a few), fabulous independent shops, and the spectacular York Minster . This truly beautiful cathedral is one of the largest in Northern Europe.

It has a wonderful suspended-in-time atmosphere and many gorgeous places to explore. I suggest heading down the narrow, cobbled lanes and browsing the designer stores, independent shops, and boutiques galore.

Don’t miss the special Shambles district lined with timber-framed buildings, some dating back to the 14th century.

Don’t forget to stop at one of the many quaint tea or cake shops along the way! 

My must-do highlights…

• Walk along the medieval stone walls, a great way to view the city and Minister.
• Wander down the narrow cobble roads of The Shambles, well known for being the prettiest street in York.
• Hire a little red boat to cruise along the river and admire the cute buildings along the way.

2. North York Moors

This is an area of outstanding beauty, and I love this spot. The landscapes here comprise 1,400 miles of natural and unspoiled wilderness beauty and are breathtaking.

The region is a natural habitat for flora and fauna, comprising heather moorland, pine forests, rolling hills, and a shimmering coastline, as well as badgers, roe deer, and hawks. 

It’s unsurprisingly a haven for outdoor activity lovers. Here, you can go walking, hiking, cycling, or just taking a beautiful scenic drive. 

My must-do highlights

• With an array of trails across the area, going on a hike to explore the beautiful scenic landscape is a must.
• Ride on the 24-mile-long steam railway for picturesque views of the area.
• Visit Dalby Forest to enjoy mountain biking, a great activity to do with friends or family.

3. Yorkshire Dales National Park

One of the most famous attractions in Northern England, I think the scenery here is just incredible! It’s an unspoiled and perfectly preserved place filled with moors, green valleys, rolling hills, grand castles, abbeys, gorgeous stone-built villages, and plenty of nature and fresh country air. 

The Yorkshire Dales National Park highlights include Malham Cove, Bolton Priory, Aysgarth Falls, Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, the Ingleborough hiking trail for gorgeous views, and White Star Cave.

I would suggest not leaving without visiting one of the traditional cosy pubs or staying in a pretty riverside cottage. 

• Discover the spectacular Ingleton Waterfalls along a 4.5-mile trail through the ancient woodland.
• Hike to the stunning Malham Cove to see the dramatic cliff and gorge.
• Explore the ruins of a historic 12th-century Augustinian church, Bolton Priory.

4. Harrogate

Harrogate may be small when it comes to size, but it packs a huge cultural punch, and this affluent and pretty historic town is known for its lovely parks, great range of independent shops, and theatres.

Although it’s arguably best known as a spa town, some of the best places to visit include the lovely Montpellier Quarter with the Royal Pump Room Museum, where you can learn about the history of the local mineral springs.

Also, I recommend not missing the Grade II-listed restored Moorish-style Turkish Baths, which are now functioning as a luxury health spa.

Other reasons to visit this gem include the many beautiful historic buildings, castles, and Abbeys, afternoon tea at the famous Betty’s tearooms, and the Valley Gardens, complete with the pretty Art Deco Sun Pavilion! 

• Relax in the exquisite Turkish baths filled with steam rooms, heating chambers and a refreshingly cold plunge pool.
• Visit the vibrant and Insta-worthy RHS Garden Harlow Carr, after wandering around you can also pop into Betty’s Tea Room.
• Check out the grand rock formations of Brimham Rocks, where you can find some great viewpoints.

5. Scarborough

This is a very charming and picturesque seaside resort located on the North Sea coast, which has an elegant, timeless atmosphere.

Scarborough’s heyday was Victorian times, and there are still many attractions that have a Victorian feel but with a modern twist—think amusement arcades, fish and chips, and sticks of rock. 

It’s blessed with two gorgeous sandy bays divided by a headland where the striking 12th-century Scarborough Castle resides.

Other highlights of this popular seaside holiday spot include the Rotunda Museum, the Victorian Central Tramway funicular train, which links the town centre with South Bay and its harbour, the lovely Scarborough Spa, and The Grand Hotel, which is positioned dramatically on the cliff top.

• Spend some time at the Oriental-inspired Peasholm Park, featuring a lake, a small island and an interesting Chinese-style pagoda.
• For the best views overlooking the town, visit Scarborough Castle.
• On a sunny day, enjoy a day at the beach and along the promenade filled with entertainment, cafes and shops.

Whitby is a very popular seaside town! Located by the River Esk, it offers a heady mix of gorgeous coastal scenery, plenty of fresh salty air, old-fashioned seaside fun, and even an alternative subculture!

This is sometimes where goths gather, and the reason is that Whitby Abbey inspired Bram Stoker’s famous “Dracula” novel.

Other stand-out attractions include the Captain Cook Memorial Museum (where the legendary Captain Cook once lived) and the very easy-on-the-eye west part of town, where you can explore or relax on West Cliff Beach, lined with photogenic beach huts.

It’s also a fabulous place to base yourself if you want to go on scenic clifftop walks. 

• Climb the famous 199 steps to the unique St Mary’s Church while admiring picturesque views.
• Check out the impressive and historic Whitby Abbey, one of the most popular attractions.
• Enjoy a refreshing drink after sightseeing at the petite Whitby Brewery.

7. Robin Hood’s Bay

This is a gorgeous area to explore in Yorkshire. This wonderfully picturesque old fishing village is located on the beautiful Heritage Coast of the North York Moors. Built between two imposing cliffs, the village is home to quaint, charming cottages that spill right down to the edge of the sea.

It makes a charming and cosy coastal getaway where you can discover incredible coastal walks and the village’s unusual architecture and learn all about the smuggling history of the bay.

My favourite highlights include the historic Church of St Stephen, Robin Hood Bay Museum, the Old Coastguard Station , and the   Falling Foss Waterfall & Tea Garden .

• Learn about the history of the area at the museum and see a replica of a smuggler’s house.
• For a spooky experience, book a ghost tour to check out the town after it goes dark.
• Take a walk along the beach to discover the hidden Boggle Hole, where you can also explore the caves.

8. Flamborough Head coast and cliffs

This stunning and unspoilt 8-mile-long chalk headland, with its sheer white cliffs.

Located between the Filey and Bridlington bays of the North Sea, the ridges also provide nesting for thousands of seabirds, and it’s also home to two standing lighthouse towers, the oldest dates from 1669, and Flamborough Head Lighthouse was built in 1806. 

Take a walk and explore this gorgeous Yorkshire gem, and you’ll find all kinds of scenic delights, including striking chalk cliffs, magical coves complete with rock pools, sea caves, sea stacks, and magnificent archways.

• Visit the oldest lighthouse in England which was built in 1966 but never lit.
• Go for a walk along the coastal paths for breathtaking views overlooking the ocean and to spot naturally formed sea arches.
• Catch a sunset from Selwicks Bay, and find the perfect spot on the 400-foot high chalk cliffs to watch the sky turn into a golden glow.

9. Castle Howard

Beautiful Castle Howard is considered one of Britain’s finest historic houses, and I’m a big fan of this place. Located in the Howardian Hills (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) 15 miles north of York, it sits proudly in the centre of 1000 acres of pristinely kept formal gardens and parkland estate, which includes pretty lakes, fountains, lovely woodlands, temples, and statues. 

In the 18th-century walled garden, you can enjoy a stunning collection of heritage roses with a heady scent and vibrant colours. Within the ornamental vegetable garden, sweet pea wigwams mingle with the vegetable patches. 

The castle itself is simply spectacular and has been the private residence of the Howard family for more than 300 years. It was built in the 18th century and is fabulously gilded and ornate. The gardens and house are usually open daily for visitors to enjoy. 

• Admire the perfectly groomed gardens surrounding the house and the iconic Atlas Fountain.
• Discover the fascinating Aztec Pyramid covered in moss, a unique but unusual monument on the grounds.
• Take a guided tour around the house, featuring over 145 rooms this is one of the largest country houses in England.

10. Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

Ingleton Waterfalls is a beautiful circular trail in North Yorkshire that begins and ends in the village of Ingleton. The Ingleton Scenery Company maintains it, and it is 8 km long with a vertical rise of 169 m.

It has some of the most beautiful and scenic waterfalls and woodland scenery in the north of England. 

The highlight of the trail is the stunning waterfall, which plunges 14 metres over a limestone cliff formed over 330 million years ago. The walk is easy to follow and is open seven days a week throughout the year. 

• Get your camera ready to snap some Instagrammable shots of the scenery as you explore through the trail.
• Dip your feet in the waterfall base to cool down after hiking to find it.
• Take a picnic to enjoy whilst being amazed by one of the most stunning waterfalls in North England .

11. Saltburn-by-the-sea

This lovely coastal town is in Redcar and Cleveland, North Yorkshire. It’s a popular spot with plenty of Victorian charm, a clean Blue Flag status beach and family-friendly beachside amenities.

As well as being a great place for a staycation, surfers and paddleboarders also love this place. My favourite highlights include the spectacular Saltburn Cliff Tramway, the Victorian pier, Captain Cook’s Heritage Centre, and the beautiful sandy beach. 

• Ride up the Saltburn Cliff Lift which connects the seafront pier to the town.
• Before taking the lift, enjoy a portion of fish and chips on the Victorian Pier.
• For those who love to surf, catch some waves at the beach, well known for having some great breaks and high tides.

12. Wentworth Castle and Gardens

Imagine being surrounded by glorious gardens, woodland, and parkland. That is precisely what you can expect from Wentworth Castle and Gardens near Barnsley in South Yorkshire. 

Sadly, the Grade II-listed country house is closed to the public due to funding issues, but the beautiful gardens are open and maintained by the National Trust. 

The grand stately home is surrounded by 60 acres of gardens with trees, shrubs, hedges, and flowers in varied planting styles, a wider park, and surrounding woodlands. I suggest taking the time to explore one of the many walking trails on the estate. 

• Check out the gorgeous Victorian Flower Garden, where you can walk up to a viewpoint for a bird’s eye view.
• Visit the Sun Monument, one of the oldest in England, which is a tribute to the forward-thinking lady.
• Discover the second castle located on the estate’s highest point, Stainborough Castle.

13. Runswick Bay 

This stunning Yorkshire gem has a sweeping and sheltered bay, a cluster of pretty red-roofed cottages, and many delightful alleyways.

Located just a few miles north of Whitby, this is a gorgeous, clean, sandy beach sometimes filled with brightly coloured anchored boats. 

It’s often said to be one of the best beaches to visit in Yorkshire, and once you visit, you’ll see why—the scenery here is very charming and picturesque. Many walks follow along the cliff tops, so I would suggest taking your time to enjoy it! 

• Explore through the town’s pretty streets, featuring cute red-roofed cottages and several shops.
• Hire a paddleboard or kayak and spend some time out on the waters having fun.
• To help the environment, take part in beach cleaning. Find the #2minutebeachclean board and follow the instructions.

14. Marsden Moor

Yorkshire has pristine wilderness very well, and this is one of the many wonderful places to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature.

This sprawling expanse is owned by the National Trust and is located in the beautiful South Pennines between West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester.

There are more than 5,000 acres of landscapes to explore, ranging from deep peat moors to historic trans-Pennine transport routes. You’ll also find a variety of plants and wildlife and many cycling and walking trails. 

• Be amazed by the gorgeous scenery along an array of trails and walks throughout the area.
• For those who love to cycle, take your bike to cover more ground in a day and enjoy a beautiful ride.
• Discover the best viewpoints overlooking the landscape and capture some incredible shots.

15. Burton Agnes Hall and Gardens

Burton Agnes Hall is a spectacular Elizabethan manor house in the village of Burton Agnes in East Riding of Yorkshire.

It’s a much-loved place built by Sir Henry Griffith in 1601–10. The house and gardens are open to the public, and the interiors have a lived-in feel with plenty of charm and character.

The stunning gardens are award-winning and home to a walled garden with many different species of plants, herbaceous borders, a pretty jungle garden, a yew maze, and even some giant games which the kids and young-at-heart adults can enjoy.

The woodland is planted in a peaceful arboretum walk and is home to a fun adventure playground.

• Take a tour around the grand Elizabeth stately home owned by the same family for over 400 years.
• Wander through the perfectly prepared gardens filled with stunning plants, trees and bushes.
• Have some fun on the giant games and yew maze located across the estate.

16. Staithes

This is a wonderful hidden Yorkshire gem! It’s a pretty seaside village on a hillside in the Scarborough borough of North Yorkshire.

It was one of the largest fishing ports in the Northeast, with a thriving industry, but today, it offers visitors a chance to explore a typical Yorkshire seaside village complete with a cosy harbour, quaint houses, wonderful views, and locally built boats. 

It’s also a great place to explore Yorkshire’s cliff-top paths and for fossil hunting. It’s also the charming home to a community of well-known artists. In my opinion, this place is a must-see! 

• Discover the eight painted illusions created by local artist Paul Czainski dotted throughout the town.
• Go for a walk along the harbour, where you can also find several pubs, galleries and eating spots.
• Take a hike along the cliff tops for spectacular views across the landscape and try your luck at finding a fossil.

17. Knaresborough

Located next door to beautiful Harrogate, this wonderful spa and market town is smaller but just as pretty as its rival. It’s mostly known for its very striking viaduct, which towers over Nidd Gorge, and is home to the historically famous prophetess, Mother Shipton. 

It enjoys an elevated position high above the River Nidd and is filled with fine architecture, a great range of independent shops and a maze of medieval streets.

Head to the Royal Forest of Knaresborough to see Mother Shipton’s Cave , England’s oldest visitor attraction. This cave contains a petrifying well that turns everyday objects to stone.

• Visit the marketplace on Wednesday to stroll around the stalls selling local produce, flowers, whole foods, and more.
• Visit Knaresborough Castle, a town monument that stands tall on a high cliff with views overlooking the River Nidd.
• Walk along the waterside of the River Nidd where you can stop at a local café for coffee and cake.

18. Harewood House

West Yorkshire has many interesting attractions, including the locally famous Royal Armories Museum, the beautiful Roundhay Park, and the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. Still, in my opinion, Harewood House is one of the best!

The wider estate is most known for being a filming location for the popular TV series Emmerdale, but there are also many other great reasons to visit. 

Built in 1759, the fine country house was designed by architects John Carr and Robert Adam and is one of England’s treasure houses. The outside is very handsome, and the inside is history. Lovers will love the rare Chippendale furniture and jaw-dropping interior designs in the State Rooms.

• Take a guided tour of the historic house for a discovery talk, explore the different rooms, and see the treasures.
• Spend some time on the lake with a ferry or boat ride.
• With over 100 acres of gardens, a stroll around the magnificent surroundings of the house is a must-do activity.

19. Gordale Scar

This scenic limestone geological formation is complete with two wonderful waterfalls and a stream running through a deep-sided gorge. 

Located one mile northeast of Malham, North Yorkshire, it’s truly a beautiful place, and its vast size can only be appreciated when you stand right in the middle!

• Take a moment to soak up the spectacular landscape formed from limestone and featuring two waterfalls.
• Walk through the enchanting woodlands to reach the Janet’s Foss waterfall, where you can take a quick dip to cool down on a hot day.
• Spend some time exploring the cavern or chill out whilst being surrounded by magnificent scenery.

20. Fountains Abbey 

The National Trust owns and operates this secluded valley monastery, one of England’s largest and best-preserved ruined Cistercian monasteries.

Founded in 1132, and with its historical importance—it was one of the wealthiest monasteries in England until it was dissolved by Henry VIII in 1539—it’s a captivating place, and I personally think it’s well worth a visit! Enjoy! 

• Wander through the serene and grand ruins of the Abbey.
• Check out the exhibition held at Fountains Hall.
• Take some great shots of the landmarks located throughout.

1 thought on “20 Enchanting Places to Discover in Yorkshire”

Hey Scott, Wow… what an amazing read. I am also planning for UK tour after covid and I got my guide post. Thank you so much for bringing this post. Best Regards 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 21 Beautiful Villages Near London You Have to See

Today I want to share my guide to the most beautiful villages near London. The English countryside is the stuff of dreams, and it’s worth a special trip to see the highlights. From Kent to Surrey, Sussex, and the Cotswolds, there are fairy-tale villages in easy driving, train, and tour distance of the UK capital. Read on for my top picks. I’ve included a map, too.

Villages Near London

It’s hard to make a list of the best villages near London because there are so many of them. In fact, the whole of the English countryside is pretty. Some of the best places to visit in the UK are here.

From rolling hills to fluffy sheep, this green and pleasant land feels like something straight out of a storybook. But since it’s real and since I’ve set myself the task of making a list of some of the prettiest villages in England , I’m going to do my best.

Whether you’re looking for places with idyllic thatched-roof cottages, destinations for country breaks near London , or fun ideas for day trips from London by train or car, there’s a village you’ll love.

1. Shere, Surrey

Down in Surrey , Shere is one of the most beautiful villages near London. With streets packed full of heritage buildings and a pretty pond full of ducks, this place has all the ingredients for a rural idyll.

Picture-pretty Shere is famous for being a filming location for The Holiday and the Bridget Jones movies. In fact, the church in the village was used in multiple Bridget Jones films.

The streets of Shere are everything one could dream of in an English country village, and pubs like the White Horse have historic interiors worthy of a leisurely Sunday lunch.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay near Shere here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including hotels and pubs with rooms.

2. Castle Combe, Wiltshire

Next on my list of the best villages near London is Castle Combe. With its chocolate-box high street, picturesque side streets, and shops with teapot signs overhead, it has everything one could want in one place.

Castle Combe is one of the best villages in Wiltshire to explore, not least because of its picture-pretty houses and bridge over the By Brook river.

This quintessential village in the Cotswolds will get you dreaming about England. It makes a great day trip from London by car or overnight trip to Bath and the Cotswolds . You can also take a day tour from London to see Castle Combe. You can book one here .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can reserve a place to stay in Castle Combe here . The most famous is The Manor House . It’s a real treat to call this hotel home-away-from-home. You can book your room here .

3. Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire

Great Missenden is next on my list of the most beautiful villages near London. This place is famous for its Roald Dahl connections.

The famous children’s book author lived in the village for 36 years, and today there’s a museum dedicated to him in the heart of town.

But there’s more to see in the village beyond the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre. The High Street and Church Street are both lined with historic facades and listed buildings.

Given the village is in the Chiltern Hills, there are lots of great walks and places to explore in nature around here, too. From Angling Spring Wood to Abbey Park, there’s no shortage of options.

This place is also accessible from London by direct train, so it’s an easy trip if you don’t have a car. I’ve done it before and I really enjoyed it.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Great Missenden here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels, cottages, and inns.

4. Bray, Berkshire

Next on my list of the best villages near London is Bray. This beautiful place in Berkshire is so close to London you can take the Elizabeth Line (plus a short taxi ride) to get here.

Once in town, there are some exciting things to do in Bray. The village streets are packed with picturesque cottages, and the riverfront scenery on the Thames is beautiful. There are great walks you can do here, too.

But let’s be honest. Most people come here for the food. Bray is known for its Michelin-starred restaurants and pubs. From The Fat Duck to the Waterside Inn, it has more stars than many major cities.

It’s easy to come here for a half-day trip from London to walk around the village and enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants or pubs.

But it’s worth staying a night to experience a couple of the famous places to eat here (and explore the streets). You can see why on my guide to spending 24 hours in Bray .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Bray here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels, cottages, and restaurants with rooms.

5. Painswick, Gloucestershire

Back in the Cotswolds, Painswick is another of the most beautiful villages in England. With its pretty stone buildings and larger-than-life topiary trees, this place is bursting with beauty.

There are fun things to do in Painswick , too. The streets are full of heritage details, and the Painswick Rococo Garden is a stunning 18th-century number in a hidden valley with views across the English countryside.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Painswick here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including hotels and B&Bs.

6. Old Amersham, Buckinghamshire

In Buckinghamshire, Amersham is another of the best villages near London. Just outside the UK capital, this place is so close to the city you can reach it on the tube.

Amersham is famous for the historic houses and buildings on the high street in Old Amersham. It’s also known for country walks, as it’s located in the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

This is a fun place to visit if you want an easy half day trip from London with as little time in transit as possible.

If you want to extend your stay and live like a local, you can book a place to stay in Amersham here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including historic hotels and inns.

7. Lacock, Wiltshire

Back in Wiltshire, Lacock is another of the most beautiful villages near London. Lacock is close to Castle Combe, and it’s famous for being a filming location for everything from the Harry Potter movies to Downton Abbey .

This beautiful village in the English countryside is brimming with yellow stone buildings and picturesque roadside stands with baked goods and bunting. Photogenic shopfronts with bicycles outside round out the scene.

This place is also home to the 13th-century Lacock Abbey. It has stunning medieval cloisters and a museum dedicated to the history of photography.

You can reach the village by car, or you can take a day tour from London to see Lacock and other famous places in the area. If the latter appeals, you can book the tour I recommend here .

If you want to stay a night, you can reserve a place to stay in Lacock here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including inns and B&Bs.

8. East Meon, Hampshire

Out in Hampshire , East Meon is another of the best country villages near London.

This idyllic spot has a river meandering through its heart. Thatched-roof cottages and pink facades make it a fairy tale lover’s dream.

Cheerful hollyhocks bloom on the waterfront in the warmer months, and red post boxes are set into by brick walls in true storybook fashion.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in East Meon here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including lodges and guesthouses.

9. Bibury, Gloucestershire

Home of the most photographed street in the Cotswolds (that’s Arlington Row if you don’t know), Bibury sits on the banks of the River Coln. William Morris once called it ‘the most beautiful village in England’, and he could be right.

Arlington Row features 17th-century weavers’ cottages that attract photographers from all over the world. A historic village pub called The Catherine Wheel is the perfect place for a drink, too.

This English village is also home to a water meadow called Rack Isle. It’s an important wildlife habitat in the Cotswolds.

Bibury features a trout farm, too. Established in the early 20th century by naturalist Arthur Severn, it stocks local rivers and streams with native brown trout.

You can get here by car, or you can easily visit Bibury on a guided Cotwolds day tour . You can book the one I recommend here .

If you want to stay a night, you can reserve a place to stay in Bibury here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels, houses, and B&Bs.

10. Burnham Market, Norfolk

Up in North Norfolk, Burnham Market deserves a place on my list of beautiful villages near London. Often referred to as Chelsea-on-Sea, the central green in this well-heeled place is surrounded by pretty buildings and cafes.

With great shopping, lively pubs and restaurants, and access to nearby coastal gems like Holkham Beach, Burnham Market is the perfect place to spend a weekend in Norfolk .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Burnham Market here . I’ve spent a weekend at The Hoste and I loved the rooms, pub, spa, and restaurant. You can book a room here .

11. Upper Slaughter, Gloucestershire

Back in the Cotswolds, Upper Slaughter is another of the best villages near London. This place wins hearts with its pretty stone cottages and idyllic surroundings.

The village lies on a slope above a stream, and it’s known for its 15th-century manor house, attractive medieval almshouses, and historic St Peter’s Church.

Upper Slaughter and its neighbor, Lower Slaughter, are some of the most beautiful places in England . They’re great to visit on a Cotswolds day trip .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Upper Slaughter here . The most exciting is Lords of the Manor . This famous country house hotel is straight out of a fairy tale. You can book your room here .

12. Bampton, Oxfordshire

Situated between Oxford and the Cotswolds, Bampton is another of the most beautiful villages near London. This place has thatched-roof cottages, a historic church, and charming local pubs.

Bampton’s pretty streets have great details to discover, and the Church of St Mary the Virgin was used as a filming location for many scenes from Downton Abbey .

It’s easy to discover Bampton on a day trip from London by car. You can also take a guided day tour of Oxford and the Cotswolds or a Downtown Abbey tour to see it. You can book one here .

If you want to stay longer, you can reserve a place to stay in Bampton here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels and inns.

13. Chilham, Kent

Next on my list of the prettiest villages near London is Chilham. Not far from Canterbury , this place is known for its chocolate-box streets and heritage buildings.

Chilham sits in the Kent Downs above the valley of the River Stour. It features steep, narrow lanes and a pretty square. There’s also a castle here.

You can visit Chilham independently by car or on a guided tour from London . You can book the tour I recommend here . It includes stops in famous places like Canterbury and Dover .

If you want to stay a night, you can reserve a place to stay in Chilham here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including B&Bs and inns.

14. Sapperton, Gloucestershire

Next on my list of the best villages near London is Sapperton. This is one of my favorite places in the Cotswolds for a number of reasons.

The village is full of pretty houses, many of which feature Arts and Crafts architecture. Some of the most famous architect-designers of the movement lived here and are buried in the churchyard.

Speaking of which, St Kenelm’s Church is worth popping into for its historic interiors. There’s also a village hall, which is across the street from The Bell at Sapperton pub. Speaking of the pub, it’s fun to have a drink in the atmospheric surroundings.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Sapperton here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including hotels and pubs with rooms.

15. Brockenhurst, Hampshire

Back in Hampshire, another of the prettiest villages near London is Brockenhurst. Located in the New Forest, it’s been called ‘Britain’s Most Beautiful Place to Live’.

Brockenhurst is home to a high street full of shops, pubs, cafes, and restaurants. It’s easy to stop here on a New Forest day trip , or make a longer journey of it.

There are famous restaurants nearby, too. And that’s to say nothing of surrounding villages like Beaulieu and Lyndhurst.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Brockenhurst here . There’s a wide variety of options to choose from, including hotels, inns, and apartments.

16. Aylesford, Kent

Next on my list of the most beautiful villages near London is Aylesford. Situated in the heart of the countryside, this is one of the best places to visit in Kent .

Aylesford sits on the River Medway not far from Maidstone. The heart of the village is home to beautiful historic houses, shops, and pubs. It’s a treat to wander around and take in the views here.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Aylesford here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including guesthouses and apartments.

17. Ashwell, Hertfordshire

Ashwell is another of the best villages near London. This picture-pretty place is known for its half-timbered facades, museum, pubs, and heritage buildings. It’s also right by the Icknield Way, so it’s a great place for country walks .

The 14th-century Church of St Mary the Virgin is renowned for its tower and the Medieval graffiti on its walls. There are also springs in the village that make up one of the sources of the River Cam (it’s the one that runs through Cambridge ).

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Ashwell here . There’s a variety of options to choose from, including hotels and B&Bs.

18. West Chiltington, West Sussex

Next on my list of the best villages near London is West Chiltington. With pretty houses and country pubs with sunny gardens, this place is a treat to visit.

The village is surrounded by fields full of cows and gentle hills with some of the best vineyards near London . Idyllic cottages round out the scene.

There are great walks you can do while you’re here, too. I’ve done a fun circular walk in West Sussex that started in West Chiltington and took me alongside ponds and through fairy-tale woods adorned with flowers.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in West Chiltington here . There’s a range of options to choose from, including lodges and homes.

19. Lavenham, Suffolk

Another of the best villages near London is Lavenham. This place was one of the wealthiest settlements in England in the Medieval period.

Today Lavenham numbers among the best-preserved Medieval villages in England. So much so that it was used as a filming location for one of the Harry Potter movies.

Lavenham is known for its eye-catching historic buildings. From the Guildhall to Little Hall, the 15th-century church, and the half-timbered medieval cottages, there’s a lot to love about this place. There are also great country walks you can take from here.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Lavenham here . There’s a wide variety of options to choose from, including hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs.

20. Kingham, Oxfordshire

Kingham is another of my favorite villages near London. From topiary hedges to Cotswold stone cottages, this prettiest of villages is picturesque in every way.

It’s fun to explore the village streets and take walks in the area to soak up the fields and flowers. You can even walk to Daylesford Organic Farm in Gloucestershire. It’s a luxurious complex with shops, restaurants, and a garden center.

Additionally, Kingham has a village shop to browse, the historic St Andrew’s Church to admire, and atmospheric pubs to eat and stay in.

Kingham is easily accessible by train from London, so it’s a great place to go if you want to visit the Cotswolds without a car . You can see more about the village in my itinerary for 3 days in the Cotswolds and my blog post about a Kingham circular walk .

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Kingham here . I’ve stayed at The Kingham Plough and I love it. This beautiful property is a historic pub with rooms. You can book your stay here .

21. Cookham, Berkshire

Cookham is another of the best villages near London. Right on the Thames, this pretty place is known for its connections to Sir Stanley Spencer, one of the great 20th-century British painters. Many visitors come here to visit the Stanley Spencer Gallery.

But there’s more to the village than that. Cookham is home to one of the oldest pubs in England, a church with Norman origins, and sweeping views from Winter Hill.

It’s also one of the sites where the UK’s annual Swan Upping Ceremony takes place each summer. If you’re interested in witnessing this historic tradition, you can time your visit to coincide with it.

If this sounds like your kind of village, you can book a place to stay in Cookham here . There’s a range of hotels to choose from.

Map of Villages in Near London

As promised, I created an interactive Google map of all the villages on my list. You can find it here . If you click on the pins, you can see my relevant blog posts about each one.

I’ve also published a Cotswolds map and a map of Cotswold villages . You might find them useful in your planning, too.

Beautiful Villages Near London

I hope you’ve enjoyed my list of beautiful villages near London and that you’ve found some inspiration for your future British travels.

If you want more ideas, you can take a look at my blog post about the prettiest towns and villages in Britain . It includes lovely places like Rye .

If you prefer to stay closer to the capital (or in it, rather), there are some great villages in London you can explore. From Hampstead Village to Dulwich Village , Highgate Village to Greenwich Village , they’ll let you get your fix without leaving the city. Happy travels!

Find this post helpful? Buy me a coffee!

New here? Join thousands of others and subscribe to the A Lady in London blog via email .

Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links. At no cost to you, I earn a small commission when you click on them and make a purchase. It doesn’t affect the way you shop, and it’s a great way to support the A Lady in London blog.

2 Comments on Lady’s 21 Beautiful Villages Near London You Have to See

I’ve only been to Lavenham. This is such an inspiring list. I’d love to visit some of these villages such as Shere or Lacock

Thanks, Tanja! I hope you can see them soon.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

© Copyright A Lady in London 2007 - 2024. Privacy Policy.

• Southeast Asia
• North America
• Central & South America
• Australia & South Pacific
• Middle-East
• Solo Travel
• Zodiac Travels
• Wellness & Spas
• Family Travel
• The Conscious Traveller
• Accessories
• Points and Miles
• Manushi Chhillar
• Quick Style
• Rajkummar Rao
• Chefs Himanshu Saini & Neha Mishra
• Poorna Jagannathan
• Guru Randhawa
• Edition 2023-24
• Edition 2022-23
• Edition 2021-22
• T+L Experiences
• Web Stories
• Destinations

Most Beautiful Places To Visit In The UK

From charming villages in the cotswolds to the fairytale hamlet of portmeirion in wales, these are among the most beautiful places in the uk..

By: Lakshmi Sharath Published: Apr 06, 2024 10:39 AM IST

Poets have long extolled the diverse mystical and romantic landscapes of the United Kingdom (UK), from verdant rolling hills and lake-studded meadows to rugged cliffs and sun-dappled woodlands. Comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the most beautiful places in the UK unravel a rich tapestry of history, traditions, and culture. Castles and fortresses dot the “sceptred isle”, while the countryside is adorned with lakes, rivers, treacherous mudflats, sea-sculpted cliffs, enchanting moors, meandering valleys, dramatic rock formations, and coastal marshlands.

Meet William Wordsworth in Grasmere and Jane Austen in Bath, explore the world of Downton Abbey in Yorkshire, experience regal splendour at Windsor Castle, and marvel at the legendary Giant’s Causeway. Wander through picturesque Cotswold villages or gaze upon the iconic White Cliffs of Dover. Be captivated by the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye and other stunning landscapes in Scotland and the Italian-inspired Portmeirion in Wales. Each scene is straight out of a storybook, inviting you on a remarkable journey through the most beautiful places in the UK, where natural wonders abound. As the poet John Keats aptly said, “A thing of beauty is a joy forever.”

Best time to visit scenic and beautiful places in the UK

The best time to explore the scenic and beautiful places in the UK is during spring, from March to June, and in autumn, from September to November. These periods are considered the shoulder seasons, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer, although popular, can become crowded, particularly in July and August, and may experience occasional thunderstorms. However, the weather across the various countries of the UK can be highly unpredictable, so it’s advisable to be prepared for rain at any time.

Explore our selection of the most beautiful castles in England .

Most beautiful places to visit in the UK

Cotswold, england.

The Cotswold emerges straight from the pages of fairy tale books, with picturesque hamlets dotted with verdant gardens, murmuring rivers, quaint cottages, honey-hued manor houses, ancient churches, charming pubs, taverns, and teahouses. The quintessential English countryside , Cotswold is one of the most beautiful places in the UK and rightfully holds the title of the “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty”.

Spanning across six counties, including Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, lose yourself in the fascinating villages and historic towns like Moreton-in-Marsh, the picturesque Arlington Row in Bibury, Asthall, Bourton-on-the-Water along the River Windrush, Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter, Broadway, Chipping Campden, Stanton, among others. If Castle Combe reminds you of Downton Abbey, then the mystical door of St. Edward’s Church in the magical Stow-on-the-Wold will transport you into a world reminiscent of Tolkien’s creations. Don’t miss the opportunity to have a drink at one of England’s oldest inns – The Porch House, founded in the 10th century. Stroll around Abbey House Gardens, explore Blenheim Palace, and soak in the historic ambience of the Roman Baths.

These beautiful small towns in England will inspire the artist in you.

Best time to explore: June to August

Best places to stay: Thyme in Southrop, Estelle Manor in Oxfordshire, Foxhill Manor in Broadway.

How to reach: Take the train from London Paddington, and in approximately 100 minutes, you’ll arrive at Moreton-in-Marsh, often referred to as the Gateway to the Cotswolds

Lake District, Cumbria, England

The poets discovered it first and then came the tourists. One of the most beautiful places in the UK, Lake District is also the birthplace of the literary giant William Wordsworth. Located in Cumbria, it boasts stunning landscapes of craggy mountains, lush meadows, and azure lakes dotted with pretty wildflowers glistening in the golden light. While Windermere is the crown jewel among the lakes, do not miss Ullswater, Coniston Water, Lake Buttermere, and Wast Water. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park, this hauntingly beautiful terrain with its dramatic cliffs and ridges is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Go for long walks through the wooded islands of Derwentwater and potter around the idyllic villages like Grasmere, Ambleside, Hawshead, Keswick, and Bowness-on-Windermere, among others. Cruise away on a boat in Windermere and if you are feeling a tad adventurous, scale the peak of Scafell Pike, standing tall at 3200 feet. There are several walking trails around lakes and fells, water sports such as kayaking and fishing, and extreme outdoor activities like gorge walking. For those with a literary bent, don’t miss Rydall Mount, Dove Cottage, and the Wordsworth Museum, along with Hilltop, the 17th-century cottage of Beatrix Potter.

Best Time to Explore : April to October

Best Place to Stay:  Gilpin Hotel and Lake House, The Forest Side, Rothay Manor.

How to Reach: The closest airport is in Manchester , approximately 90 miles (144 km) away. You can rent a car or take a train to the Lake District, which takes about two hours.

Book your stay at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House via Booking.com

Book your stay at Gilpin Hotel And Lake House via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Forest Side Hotel via Booking.com

Book your stay at Forest Side Hotel via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Rothay Manor Hotel via Booking.com

Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Isle of Skye in Scotland is a landscape of towering jagged cliffs, enchanting moors, incredible rock formations, azure lochs, and ancient castles, all contributing to its hauntingly beautiful and dramatic allure. Among its crown jewels are the iconic pinnacle known as the Old Man of Storr and the rugged basalt cliffs of Quiraing. Hike through the mist-wrapped Cuillin Hills, often referred to as the “cloud island”, which inspired the island’s name.

Mystical and magical, the views are Instagram-worthy, including the Neist Point Lighthouse, Fairy Glen, and Portree Harbour. Soak in the beauty of the Fairy Pools on the northern slopes of Black Cuillin, go to Mealt Falls, admire the views of Kilt Rock, explore Elgol and Spar Cave, and get a dose of history at the Armadale and Dunvegan Castles while cruising along the coast. And while you are here, get high on the local whisky at renowned distilleries like Talisker and Torabhaig.

Explore our selection of the best things to do in Scotland .

Best time to explore: April to September

Best places to stay: Marmalade Hotel, Lampay Chalets

How to reach: Inverness Airport is 85 miles (136 km) away, while Isle of Benbecula Airport is approximately 44 miles away. You can rent a car from both destinations or take a bus.

Book your stay at Marmalade via Booking.com

Book your stay at Marmalade via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Lampay Chalets via Booking.com

Book your stay at Lampay Chalets via Agoda.com

Loch Lomond, Scotland

While there may not be any mythical monsters lurking in the placid sapphire waters of Loch Lomond like the famous Loch Ness, this Queen of the Scottish Lakes, along with the forested depths of Trossachs National Park, is one of the most beautiful places in the UK. Kayak across the lake, embark on a cruise, hike through the forests, take a scenic drive, or visit atmospheric villages like Balloch and Luss around the lochs.

Here’s what makes Scotland the dog-friendliest luxury destination.

Trekkers can tackle the 96-mile (154 km) West Highland Way that passes through the Loch and National Park. Alternatively, opt for a shorter hike up Conic Hill via the Balmaha Circular Trail. Castle enthusiasts can explore medieval Balloch Castle, Stirling Castle, Linlithgow Palace, or Doune Castle, known for its appearance in Outlander. Easily accessible from Glasgow and Edinburgh, this largest freshwater loch in the UK should be on your itinerary.

Find out why you should visit Troon, a seaside town in Scotland, for a restorative vacation.

Best time to explore: March to May

Best places to stay: Loch Lomond Waterfront, Balmaha Lodges

How to reach: Rent a car from Glasgow Airport, just 26 miles (41 km) away, or from Edinburgh, which is 57 miles (91 km) away.

Book your stay Loch Lomond Waterfront Luxury Lodges via Booking.com

Book your stay at Loch Lomond Waterfront Luxury Lodges via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Balmaha Lodges via Booking.com

Book your stay at Balmaha Lodges via Agoda.com

Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

Legend has it that an Irish giant, Finn McCool, built the dramatic causeway over the sea, filled with 40,000 massive interlocked hexagonal-shaped basalt columns, to challenge his Scottish counterpart, Benandonner, who tripped over it. In reality, this UNESCO World Heritage Site in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, was likely formed by volcanic fissure eruptions. Marvel at fascinating formations like The Organ, resembling organ pipes, Chimney Stacks, and even a Giant’s Boot.

Don’t miss the exhibition at the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Experience, which provides insights into this natural wonder . Walk across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, barely a metre wide, connecting the tiny island of Carrick-a-Rede with rugged cliffs, dangling 30 metres above the ocean. Explore the ruins of medieval Dunluce Castle against the coastal backdrop. Giant’s Causeway is also near Bushmills Distillery, where you can enjoy a tour and a drink.

Explore our selection of the best places to visit in Ireland.

Best time to explore: April to October, though it gets very crowded in July and August

Best places to stay: Bushmills Inn, The Causeway Hotel, The Carrick.

How to reach: Rent a car from Londonderry Airport, which is 29 miles (46 km) away, or from Belfast Airport, which is 50 miles (80 km) away.

Book your stay at Bushmills Inn Hotel & Restaurant via Booking.com

Book your stay at Causeway Hotel via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Carrick via Booking.com

Portmerion, Gwynedd, Wales

Nestled in a quiet peninsula in Northern Wales, Portmeirion magically transforms into the Italian Riviera with its captivating colourful cottages and mansions, nestled amidst piazzas and pavilions, enveloped by woodlands and gardens offering breathtaking views of the estuary of River Dwyryd. This idyllic village exudes a Mediterranean vibe and was the visionary creation of Welsh architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, taking over 50 years to complete.

Explore the village and marvel at the architectural wonders of the Gothic Pavilion, Belvedere, Hercules Hall, Bristol Pavilion, and Battery Square during guided walking tours, or opt for forest and garden tours. Pamper yourself at the spa, peruse pottery shops, and visit filming locations of The Prisoner . While the village boasts cafes, restaurants, hotels, and boutique accommodations, you can also go on a vintage steam train journey from the nearby Minffordd Station to Eryri and explore Snowdonia National Park. Alternatively, venture to Porthmadog, a vibrant harbour town.

Find out why Wales is also known as the unexpected filming capital of the UK .

Best time to explore: March to August but spring is the best time

Best places to stay: The Hotel Portmeirion, Castell Deudraeth

How to reach: The nearest international airports are Liverpool, 60 miles (96 km) away, and Manchester, 82 miles (131 km) away, both approximately a little over two hours away by road.

Book your stay at Portmeirion Village & Castell Deudraeth via Booking.com

Book your stay at Portmeirion Village & Castell Deudraeth via Agoda.com

Durdle Door-Dorset, England

As the poster child of the Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door is the most famous landmark in Dorset, a natural limestone arch shaped by the relentless force of waves. Follow the cliff path to reach the beautiful pebble and shingle Durdle Door Beach. Climb the 140 steps to discover the adjacent shingle Man O’War Beach.

Marvel at naturally formed sea caves at the base of the cliffs, though entry is not advisable due to safety concerns. This spectacular arch is part of the UNESCO World Heritage coastline, and you can continue your exploration towards Lulworth Cove and Stair Hole, soaking in sweeping views. Further along, discover fascinating geological formations at Worbarrow Bay and lose yourself in the abandoned village of Tyneham.

Best time to explore: May to September

Best places to stay: Lulworth Lodge, Durdle Door Holiday Park

How to reach: The nearest airport to Dorset is Bournemouth Airport, 22 miles (35 km) away. London Heathrow is 96 miles (154 km) away, while London Gatwick is approximately 99 miles (159 km) away.

Book your stay at Lulworth Lodge via Booking.com

Book your stay at Lulworth Lodge via Agoda.com

Related Stories

This Buzzy London Neighbourhood Has Long Been A Favourite Among Locals & Travellers

Haute Couture To High Street: Best Places For Shopping In London

Kynance cove, cornwall, england.

Straight out of a painting, Kynance Cove boasts turquoise waters, emerald green and red serpentinite rocks, and pristine white sandy beaches, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in the UK. Patronised by the British royal family since the Victorian Era, this Cornwall gem is situated on the Lizard’s Peninsula on the eastern side of Mount’s Bay.

Discover caves, creeks, headlands, and islands during low tide, while towering rocks provide a stunning backdrop. Drive along the scenic coastline, meander along the tidal beach, explore hidden caves, or simply swim and sunbathe. The iconic South West Coast Path winds along the cliff above the cove, offering panoramic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Best places to stay: Mullion Cove, Hotel Cornwall, Polurrian on the Lizard

How to reach: The nearest airport is Cornwall Airport Newquay, 48 miles (77 km) away.

North York Moors National Park, England

Experience the allure of wilderness as you traverse the evocative, untamed landscapes of the windswept North York Moors National Park in England. Soak in the views of ancient woodlands and rugged coasts adorned with dramatic cliffs and heather moorlands, where timeless villages with centuries-old stone houses reside. Located in Yorkshire, this stunning national park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails through forests and along the coast, as well as guided walks through picturesque hamlets. However, it’s the magical moors that beckon you, dazzling in vibrant purple hues during summers and transforming into a golden tapestry in autumn.

Hike along Cleveland Way and Lyke Wake Walk, and explore the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey. Visit charming villages like Goathland, straight out of Harry Potter movies, while Thornton le Dale and Hutton le Hole are equally recommended. Listen to stories of old smugglers at Robin Hood’s Bay, or venture to the scenic shores of Runswick Bay for a beachside retreat.

Explore all the Harry Potter movie locations in the UK .

Best time to explore: June to October

Best places to stay: The Fox and Hounds Inn, Royal Oak Inn, York, Inn on the Moor Hotel

How to reach: The closest airport is in Durham, approximately 30 miles (48 km) away, while Manchester Airport is about 104 miles (167 km) away.

Book your stay at The Inn on the Moor Hotel via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Inn on the Moor Hotel via Agoda.com

Bath, Somerset, England

Step into a Roman-era time capsule and immerse yourself in a world of thermal baths, hot springs, and spas in the historic city of Bath in Somerset. As you wander through this city steeped in old-world charm, you’ll find yourself transported to the Victorian era, reminiscent of scenes from a Jane Austen novel, complete with aristocratic balls and romantic interludes. The city’s Georgian architecture, adorned with honey-hued monuments, is the main attraction here. Explore the iconic Royal Crescent, where you can experience life as a Georgian at the Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa, or marvel at the architectural marvel of the Circus. Gain insight into Bath’s literary legacy at the Jane Austen Centre.

Take a heritage walking tour or explore on your own as you wander around galleries, and museums, savour the culinary fares and pamper yourself in the spas. Visit Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein for a macabre experience, or venture to The Holburne Museum, once home to Lady Danbury in Bridgerton . Climb the Bath Abbey Tour for panoramic views, or go on the Bath Skyline Walk for a different perspective of the city. Venture into the countryside to explore the iconic Stonehenge or picturesque villages like Lacock and Castle Combe.

Explore our comprehensive guide to planning the perfect trip to Bath, England .

Best places to stay: The Ayrlington, The Gainsborough, The Royal Cresent Hotel and Spa

How to reach: Take a direct train from London Paddington Station, which takes approximately an hour and 20 minutes.

Book your stay at The Ayrlington Guesthouse via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Ayrlington House via Agoda.com

Book your stay at The Gainsborough Bath Spa via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel via Agoda.com

Book your stay at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa via Agoda.com

shop the best travel experiences here

(Feature Image Credit: TTstudio/Shutterstock)

Related: The Best Times To Visit London, According To Local Experts

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

-What are some of the most scenic natural attractions in the UK? Some of the most beautiful natural attractions in the UK include Lake District, Cotswold, North York Moors National Park, Jurassic Coast, Kynance Cove, Durdle Door in England, Loch Lomond, Loch Ness in Scotland, Snowdonia National Park in Wales, Giant Causeway in Northern Ireland.

-Are there any picturesque villages and coastal towns worth visiting? Villages like those in the Cotswolds and Lake District in England, and coastal towns such as Dover, Dorset, Cornwall, Newquay, Tenby, and Dartmouth, offer charming experiences and account for some of the most beautiful pl aces in the UK.

-What are the most scenic drives in the UK? St Ives to St Just in Cornwall, the Dorset Jurassic Coast Drive, Kendal to Keswick in the Lake District, Snake Pass in the Peak District, The Antrim Coast Drive, and the Giant’s Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland are among the most scenic drives in the UK.

-What are some of the iconic landmarks in the UK? Iconic landmarks in the UK include Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Big Ben, Windsor Palace, the Roman Baths at Bath, Stonehenge, Edinburgh Castle, Cardiff Castle, Stirling Castle, Giant’s Causeway, and the White Cliffs of Dover.

-Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known beautiful places in the UK? Hidden gems that are also some of the most beautiful places in the UK include Castle Combe in the Cotswolds, Cadgwith Cove in Cornwall, Torquay in Devon, Bournemouth in Dorset, Dunnottar Castle in Scotland, Fingal’s Cave in Scotland, Carrick Castle in Argyll and Bute, and Snowdonia in Wales, among others.

• beautiful places

Lakshmi Sharath

Lakshmi is passionate about everything that is local — from cultural traditions to art and architecture and believes that people make places. A slow and mindful traveller from India, you will often find her listening to stories of people or just sitting in a cafe and watching life pass by. Travelling is a way of life for this former media professional .. Read More who quit her desk and decade long corporate career to become a storyteller. Read Less

Sandy Beaches Or Snowy Christmas Markets? Finding The Best Time To Visit Europe

By Shubhanjana Das

Take Over The Wheels In Italy: Our Guide To The Best Car Rentals In The Country

By Yashita Vashishth

The 10 Most Beautiful Places In Ireland

By Lakshmi Sharath

This Farmhouse In The English Countryside Was The Inspiration For Winnie-The-Pooh

By Evie Carrick

This Storybook Village In Italy Cooks Fish For Thousands In The World's Largest Frying Pan

By Lauren Breedlove

How To Plan A Trip To Saint-Germain-des-Prés - The Quintessential Paris Neighbourhood

By Lane Nieset

By Esha Dasgupta

Damsel ">Experience Europe's Beauty Through Filming Locations Of Netflix's Damsel

By Priyaja Bakshi

The Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Norway

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest on travel, stay & dining.

You’re all set

Thank you for your subscription.

What a prickle…

We're sorry – it looks like something's gone wrong

The 10 Best Travel Destinations for Women Who Love the Countryside

Adventures in the countryside can be therapeutic and captivating for women who seek peace in little-known spots in rural settings.

Faith Katunga • Apr 4, 2024

Adventures in the countryside can be therapeutic for women who seek peace in rural settings. Discovering little-known spots off the typical tourist trail can be captivating, especially with their emerald fields, picturesque cottages , and the promise of peaceful nature strolls. If you are a woman who loves the soft embrace of nature, these are some of the top places to visit.

1. The Cotswolds, England

In England’s Cotswolds, you will find scenic routes winding past quaint villages, each more picturesque than the last. This region boasts honey-colored stone cottages, majestic manor houses, and gardens that display all kinds of colors come spring and summer. The Cotswolds is a dream for those who delight in the beauty of the English countryside and historical exploration. Take a walk through the streets of Chipping Campden or Bibury, and let the timeless beauty of the area sink in.

2. Tuscany, Italy

Expansive vineyards, old olive trees, and picture-perfect hilltop towns are the hallmarks of Tuscany. This Italian region offers a sublime countryside experience. It serves culinary masterpieces with unforgettable landscapes. Imagine starting your day with a walk through fields bathed in golden sunlight, followed by a wine-tasting session in a local vineyard. Cities like Florence and Siena are nearby, offering cultural excursions, but the true essence of Tuscany lies in its rural heartland. Montalcino and Cortona, with their ancient streets and rustic charm, are must-visits for any countryside lover.

3. The Cape Winelands, South Africa

South Africa’s Cape Winelands is an outstanding region known for its world-class wineries amid rocky mountains and green valleys. Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, for example, provide a distinctive mix of Dutch colonial architecture and welcoming African culture. They also offer numerous options for wine sampling, art appreciation, and nature exploration. Here, you will discover a one-of-a-kind rural adventure steeped in the region’s pristine natural beauty and storied past.

4. Kyoto Countryside, Japan

When one thinks of Japan, big cities like Tokyo and Osaka often come to mind. However, Japan’s countryside offers an entirely different palette of experiences. For example, the rural areas around Kyoto reflect Japan’s profound connection with nature. Places such as Arashiyama and its famous bamboo grove offer quiet walks, while the historic village of Miyama is home to thatched farmhouses and a slower pace of life. The cultural richness, peaceful surroundings, and the unique harmony between man and nature make Kyoto’s countryside a captivating destination.

5. The Loire Valley, France

Often referred to as the ‘Garden of France,’ the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vineyards, orchards, and historic villages. It’s also famed for its majestic châteaux, which provide insight into France’s royal history. A bicycle ride in the Loire Valley is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the region’s natural splendor at your leisure. Every corner presents a postcard-perfect setting, from the gorgeous Vouvray vineyards to the Tours alleys. 

6. The Lake District, England

Another gem in England, the Lake District National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and literature lovers. With its dramatic landscapes comprising towering mountains and calm lakes, it’s easy to see why this region has inspired poets and writers for centuries. Hiking, canoeing, and simply basking in the beauty of lakes like Windermere or Derwentwater can fill your days here. The Lake District also offers a wealth of charming bed and breakfasts, providing a cozy retreat after a day of exploration.

7. Patagonia, Argentina and Chile

Patagonia is unmatched for the adventurous woman who craves wide-open spaces and otherwordly natural areas. This vast region, shared by Argentina and Chile, has glaciers, rugged mountains, and pristine lakes. The countryside here is wild and untamed, offering opportunities for trekking in Torres del Paine National Park, whale watching off the coast of Peninsula Valdés, and marveling at the Perito Moreno Glacier. Patagonia’s remote beauty offers a profound sense of freedom and connection to the natural world.

8. The Scottish Highlands, Scotland

Wild and beautiful, the Scottish Highlands are home to mountains, lochs, and glens that will stir the soul. The Isle of Skye and the ancient Culloden Battlefield are just two examples of the beauty that makes the Highlands an ideal retreat for adventurers and peace seekers. In addition to fantastic scenery, this region has a long-lasting cultural heritage, with whisky distilleries, old castles, and Highland games that bring the past to life.

9. Munnar, India

Munnar, a picture of emerald serenity with its sprawling tea plantations and mist-covered hills, is located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. The region’s biodiversity, including exotic species of flora and fauna in the Eravikulam National Park, offers an outstanding countryside experience. The Neelakurinji blooms, which paint the hills blue every twelve years, are a spectacle not to be missed. Munnar’s peaceful environment and gentle climate make it an ideal retreat for reconnecting with nature.

10. Sonoma County, US

Tucked away from San Francisco’s congestion, Sonoma County is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With over 400 wineries and a tranquil setting ideal for wine tasting and gastronomic activities, this wine region is less busy than neighboring Napa Valley yet just as distinguished. Beyond the vineyards, the rugged Pacific coast, towering redwoods, and artisan markets make Sonoma a diverse countryside retreat with both luxury and nature.

Subscribe to travel noire

Get more travel content

Subscribe to Travel Noire, a free daily newsletter that features the best of travel, destinations, and guides to the cities you love from a new point of view — yours.

By subscribing to this newsletter, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Popular posts

Trending stories in world travel

Where to see giant redwood trees in the UK

They are currently 50 metres tall... and growing

A new study , conducted by UCL researchers, found that the giant trees (first imported 160 years ago) are now adapting well to the UK climate and, as such, are growing taller, and at a similar rate to their US counterparts.

The UK redwoods aren't quite as big yet though, hitting 55 metres tall. In California, they can reach 90 metres high. But with a lifespan of over 2,000 years, there's plenty of time for our giants to catch up.

Scientists selected a sample of nearly 5,000 giant redwood trees to study at Wakehurst, Benmore Botanic Garden in Scotland and Havering Country Park in Essex. Using laser scanners, they measured the heights and volumes of the trees (this weighs the trees without cutting them down).

The researchers found that the trees were growing just as fast as the giant redwoods in their native home – the mountains of Sierra Nevada, California. The trees are actually declining there, due to increasing temperatures. There are only 80,000 giant redwoods left in the state of California, compared to an estimated 500,000 trees in the UK.

"The growth here in the UK seems to be suited to our wetter climate, so there’s far less chance of water stress here than in the Sierras in California," lead author of the study and professor of geography, Mat Disney, told The Independent .

Professor Disney says they won't stay small for long: "They're very fast growing, and they grow large. Once they reach about 60 metres tall, they will be the tallest trees in Britain, and then they will keep on growing."

.css-1eiql25{text-align:center;margin:0rem;padding-top:0.9375rem;padding-bottom:0.9375rem;} .css-12hmvql{color:#5D654E;font-family:Kepler,Kepler-fallback,Kepler-roboto,Kepler-local,Helvetica,Arial,Serif;font-size:2.1875rem;line-height:1.2;margin:0rem;}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-12hmvql{font-size:2.5625rem;line-height:1.2;}}.css-12hmvql b,.css-12hmvql strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-12hmvql em,.css-12hmvql i{font-style:italic;font-family:inherit;} Where to see giant redwood trees in the UK .css-1w3y1tp:after{margin-top:0.625rem;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;-webkit-mask:var(--mask);mask:var(--mask);width:4.438rem;height:0.313rem;content:'';display:block;-webkit-transform:rotate(-180deg);-moz-transform:rotate(-180deg);-ms-transform:rotate(-180deg);transform:rotate(-180deg);background:radial-gradient(4px at 50% calc(100% + 1.8px),#0000 calc(99% - 1px),#B2CB7C calc(101% - 1px) 99%,#0000 101%) calc(50% - 6px) calc(50% - 2px + 0.5px)/12px 4px repeat-x,radial-gradient(4px at 50% -1.8px,#0000 calc(99% - 1px),#B2CB7C calc(101% - 1px) 99%,#0000 101%) 50% calc(50% + 2px)/12px 4px repeat-x;}

Forestry England has created a handy map of redwood locations in the UK, so you can head out and see the trees yourself. Whilst their map shows locations with all different varieties (and sizes) of redwoods, their top 10 places to see giant redwood trees are:

• Hamsterley Forest , County Durham
• Benmore Botanic Garden , Argyllshire
• Havering Country Park , Essex
• Wakehurst , West Sussex
• Stapleford Woods , Lincolnshire
• Lynford Hall , Norfolk
• Blackwater Arboretum , New Forest
• Ashton Hill , Bristol
• Bedgebury Pinetum , Kent
• Orelstone Forest , Kent

.css-1shyvki:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin-bottom:0;margin-right:-0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-1shyvki:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:none;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:inline-block;}} Nature & Wildlife .css-c08pe1:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-c08pe1:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-c08pe1:before{margin:0.7rem auto 0.9375rem;display:block;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-c08pe1:before{margin:0 -0.9375rem 0 0;display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scaleX(-1);-moz-transform:scaleX(-1);-ms-transform:scaleX(-1);transform:scaleX(-1);-webkit-background-position:75% 0;background-position:75% 0;}}

10 refreshing reads for spring 2024

How to create a DIY sweet pea den for your garden

Cheshire farm's fluffy chicks and pedigree hens

A new hedgehog conservation project needs you

European Tree of the Year has been named

Once-in-a-lifetime astronomical event in March

UK wildlife park welcomes rare otter cubs

Woodpeckers: 3 British species to know

14 best places to see blossom in the UK

What awe in nature does for us

Enchanting forests in the UK you can visit

The Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds with Kids

T he Cotswolds is undeniably one of the most beautiful places to visit in England. There are loads of options if you’re looking for great things to do in the Cotswolds with kids. We are sure that the adults will enjoy these places too. 

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

With a fantastic mix of sprawling countryside, cute villages, and picturesque towns to explore (plus you’re a stone’s throw from having a great day out in Oxford !), there’s tons to do on a visit to the Cotswolds. It’s designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), meaning the land is preserved and protected from development. So strap on your walking boots, pack some snacks, and get ready to explore this beautiful part of the country. 

Things to Do in the Cotswolds with Kids

1. cirencester.

First up, the lovely market town of Cirencester is a great place to visit with kids. If you’re looking for somewhere with familiar shops and plenty of cafes and restaurants, this is the place to go. It’s known as the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’ due to its population and variety of attractions. 

There are plenty of fun things to do in Cirencester. Start by exploring the Corinium Museum , where children can discover Roman history and artifacts while enjoying the interactive exhibits. For outdoor activities, head to Cirencester Park, a sprawling green space perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. 

You could also pop into the independent ones, and take in the lively Cirencester atmosphere. If you’re in the Cotswolds for Christmas , there are some cute festive markets in Cirencester you should definitely explore. 

Jack’s Tea Room and Kitchen is lovely if you’re looking for a great place to stop mid-morning for some breakfast or brunch. For dinner, The Fleece should be on the menu as it’s one of the highest rated places to eat in the area. 

2. Barnsley

Onto the small village of Barnsley, which could win awards for its prettiness. Barnsley is a great spot to visit as it’s right in the heart of the Cotswolds. It’s surrounded by beautiful walks in all directions. This is a great place for a short walk in the Cotswolds for little ones. There’s plenty of nature and buglife to keep them busy.

Visit for the cute village vibes; there’s a church, a pub, and a luxury hotel called Barnsley House . It was once the home of the gardener Rosemary Verey, and its beautiful gardens are still well maintained to this day. 

3. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens – Burford

You can’t beat a trip to a wildlife park to see some amazing animals, especially if you’re bringing little ones on your day out in the Cotswolds. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens is the perfect place to visit while you’re in the area since it’s one of the top zoos in England . 

The kids won’t be disappointed when they come across everything from bats to flamingos to giraffes to reptiles and much more. In fact, there are over 260 different animal species in the park.

Each day they offer zookeeper talks and feeding times so you can see the animals up close and personal! Don’t forget to hop on the little train that runs around the park. This is perfect for getting back to the exit when those little legs are tired after a fun day with the animals. 

4. Blenheim Palace – Woodstock 

Blenheim Palace is a must-visit while you’re in the Cotswolds, since it’s an absolutely stunning. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a fascinating history and beautiful architecture to discover. It was listed as a Heritage Site in 1987, and the team who runs the Palace spends a lot of time and effort into maintaining the property. 

This was the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, so you know there is plenty of history in these walls. You can walk around the house and gardens, attend one of their many events throughout the year, and make memories on your day out in the Cotswolds . 

Blenheim Palace offers a host of activities for kids to enjoy. Start by exploring the stunning grounds and gardens, where children can run and play in the wide open spaces.

Take a stroll through the Butterfly House to marvel at the colourful butterflies fluttering around. The Pleasure Gardens have a giant hedge maze, a miniature train ride, and an adventure playground. 

Inside the palace, kids can join a family-friendly tour to learn about its rich history and grandeur. Blenheim Palace often hosts seasonal events and activities specifically designed for children. There’s nothing quite like Blenheim Palace at Christmas , when it’s arguably at its most beautiful, but it really is a spectacular visit all year round. 

5. Cotswold Farm Park – Cheltenham

You can never get enough of cute animals, so if the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens wasn’t enough, Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park has even more fun in that department. They boast over 50 rare breed British animals on their farm, and you can meet them all. You might even have a chance to feed them! 

The farm park is surrounded by beautiful woodland with bubbling streams, so if you want to explore beyond the farm grounds, this is a lovely spot. 

There is a lot to learn here, but there is also lots of fun to be had. Dare to go on the zipline, try driving a tractor, and learn to handle delicate (and insanely cute!) chicks with care. They offer many events throughout the year, like spring lambing and their Autumnal Harvest. You will find there is plenty of entertainment at the farm park. 

This is definitely one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds for kids of all ages. 

6. Broadway Village 

Broadway Village in the Cotswolds has a little bit of everything. There are great cafes and restaurants, independent shops, a beautiful countryside, a children’s activity park, and much more. Broadway Village is known as the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’, and it’s a fantastic spot in the north of the area with plenty to do for the whole family. 

If a little retail therapy is in order, Broadway Village has unique shops offering fashion, handmade jewelery and homewares, flowers, and more. You’ll love picking up some gifts for loved ones that you won’t find anywhere else. Don’t miss the Broadway Deli , which has lots of delicious foods for a Cotswold picnic! 

Broadway Tower

We highly recommend a walk out to the iconic 200-year-old Broadway Tower. While you’re there, definitely visit the nuclear bunker which was built to record nuclear activity in the Cold War.

It was apparently a total secret until it was decommissioned in 1991, and today is a great way to travel back to the Cold War to learn about this fascinating time period. This is an interesting spot for adults, and also a great place for kids of all ages to run around. There’s also a picnic area if you want to enjoy an afternoon snack. 

Are you planning a trip to the Cotswolds with kids soon? A day out there is a terrific idea with so many lovely activities to try and villages to visit. Pack a bag with some snacks and water, bundle up the kids, put your hiking boots in the car in case you fancy a big walk in the Cotswolds, and drive to this beautiful area of the country to see where you end up!  

About the author : Headed up by top travel blogger, VickyFlipFlop, DayOutinEngland.com is filled with guides and itineraries to England’s best days out. It’s searchable by interests, counties, cities and areas – and definitely not just for the kids!

The post The Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds with Kids appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .