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English Countryside: The 10 Most Beautiful Destinations

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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.

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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.

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Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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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
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• Monmouth Visitors Guide
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• Brighton weekend guide
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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!

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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 it all. See the top things to do here.

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.

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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.

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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

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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…

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The 20 most beautiful villages in the UK and Ireland

By Madeleine Silver

The UK is known for its lush countryside with endless rolling hills, misty mornings and picturesque villages. Criss-cross your way around the UK and you will stumble upon the most coveted of villages - those places that strike the perfect balance between impossibly pretty yet somehow not-too-chocolate-boxy. Among them are hidden jewels that each offer up something unique, setting them apart from the next village .

These slices of heaven are perfect for hunkering down for a day or even a weekend - with a pint of prawns of local brew in hand. From wandering the streets of Southrop’s quintessential yellow stone homes to watching the sun go down with a takeaway fish platter in Solva, these are the 20 most beautiful villages in the UK and Ireland .

1. South Pool, Devon

Salcombe’s streets, teeming with the sailing brigade, smart shops and ice-cream parlours, seem another world on the other side of the Kingsbridge Estuary in South Pool, where the changing tides of the creek are the most noteworthy activity. Savvy canoeists who’ve checked the tide charts arrive by boat and tie up to the pontoon. But others on foot can just as happily wander the water’s edge before climbing the steep steps to the pretty 14th-century St Nicholas and St Cyriac Church with its views out across the patchwork fields.

Where to stay nearby: One of the  best hotels in Devon ,  Gara Rock , is a 15-minute drive away. Perched high on a jagged peninsula along Devon’s historic South West Coast Path, the hotel-meets-private-hamlet is home to spectacular seaside views, an outdoor pool and an al fresco restaurant.

2. Cartmel, Cumbria

The village shop ’s sticky toffee pudding alone would be a good enough reason to mark this medieval village on your map. But there are also the narrow, winding streets to explore, and the 12th-century Cartmel Priory with its ancient choir stalls, as well as the Lake District ’s foodie stalwart L’Enclume , where chef Simon Rogan’s tasting menu throws the spotlight on the Cumbrian countryside. For an adrenalin kick, try horse racing at Cartmel Racecourse against a backdrop of the Lakeland fells, a tradition started by the monks from Cartmel Priory in the 15th century.

Where to stay nearby: One of our favourite Airbnbs in the Lake District , The Nest , is in Cartmel. Found in the quaint and cosy Maggie Puddle Cottage, the Airbnb stay is dotted with smart details such as retro club chairs, iron bed frames, and antique apothecary bottles, plus there are piles of logs for the fires. Families are well catered for too with baskets of toys, highchairs and travel cots.

3. Portloe, Cornwall

Clustered on the slopes of a steep-sided valley, with a piercingly turquoise sea below, Portloe is considered the jewel of the Roseland Peninsula. Only a handful of fishing boats now work from the cove, delivering lobster and crab, but it’s easy to imagine a time at the beginning of the 20th century when it was a heaving port. Pick up supplies from the Veryan and Portloe village store a five-minute drive inland, and set off down the coast to find a spot on a sandy stretch, making a beeline for The Hidden Hut on Porthcurnick Beach where the menu of hearty stews, chowder and flatbread is scribbled on a chalkboard.

Where to stay nearby: Sitting above the waves of Portloe, Hillside Stone Cottage has great views of the water and rolling hills. Inside, there’s a big dining table for group suppers and a cute breakfast room overlooking the slate roofs of neighbouring houses. 

4. Nether Compton, Dorset

It may be the gentle expanse of the village green, the way the sun turns the stone deliciously yellow or the fact it’s hidden down a lane that doesn’t take you anywhere else – something gives Nether Compton an air of immense calm. Sherborne, with its imposing abbey and tempting shops (dive into The Circus for cashmere, silk dresses and presents you won’t want to give away) is just three miles from here. But you could just as easily while away the afternoon nursing a pint in the village’s 16th-century Griffin’s Head Inn, while you muster the energy to put on your walking boots.

Where to stay nearby: One of our favourite  Airbnbs in Dorset  is located a 14-minute drive from the town. The  cute and cosy bothy cottage  is set among winding pathways that date back to the 1700s. Inside there are exposed-brick walls and furniture made from reclaimed wood, plus a wood-burning stove that keeps the stone cottage snug.

5. Beaulieu, Hampshire

Forget getting anywhere in a hurry in this Hampshire village at the head of the Beaulieu River, where New Forest ponies and donkeys amble down the high street on the hunt for open heathland. Petrolheads can get their fix at the National Motor Museum and the history of the Beaulieu estate can be found at Palace House, the home of the Montagu family since 1538. Set off on the two-mile riverside walk to neighbouring Buckler’s Hard, scanning for kingfishers along the way.

Where to stay nearby: The Pig Hotel’s original Brockenhurst outpost is a 10-minute drive from Beaulieu.

6. Ullapool, Ross and Cromarty

With its jangling fishing boats and the imposing Caledonian MacBrayne ferry waiting to take passengers to the Outer Hebrides , there’s an air of activity in Ullapool. But allow yourself to stay put for a while, sitting on the wall in front of the white seafront cottages, and soak up the Highland buzz. Make a beeline for The Seafood Shack for lunch (try the crispy lobster burger with guacamole and lemon sour cream), before stopping by The Ceilidh Place opposite to check out its upcoming line-up of local musicians.

Where to stay nearby: The Summer Isles Hotel occupies a wonderful position just above a sandy beach and offers a friendly atmosphere.

7. Mells, Somerset

Meander through this sleepy Somerset village and marvel at the 15th-century New Street, which runs to St Andrew’s Church, where the great war poet Siegfried Sassoon is buried. Set off with a map in hand to explore the surrounding rolling hills and build up an appetite for a wood-fired pizza at the Walled Garden .

Where to stay nearby: There are plenty of options nearby including The Talbot Inn , with its roll-top baths and vintage Welsh rugs, or Soho House ’s original rural outpost at Babington House , which is a five-minute drive away.

8. Powerstock, Dorset

Encased by a maze of lanes in a steep valley on the edge of the Dorset Downs is Powerstock, a place to get your fix of honey-coloured holiday cottages without the risk of feeling as if you’ve stepped onto a period-drama film set. Bridport, with its artisan coffee shops and sprawling Saturday bric-a-brac market, is less than five miles away, and beyond are the Jurassic Coast ’s long, sandy beaches. Recharge post-swim at the Watch House Café at West Bay, with a crab sandwich or a steaming bowl of fish soup topped with saffron aïoli.

Where to stay nearby: If you’re just looking for somewhere to rest your head,  The Warren  is a quaint log cabin with a hot tub.

9. Lurgashall, Sussex

When cricket is in full flow on the green, right in the shadow of Black Down – Sussex’s highest hill – Lurgashall could be the setting of a Twenties novel. Stock up on supplies at the tempting village shop, where gin from the local Blackdown Distillery lines the shelves, alongside handcrafted truffles from nearby chocolatiers Noble and Stace. For those lacking the energy to navigate the South Downs ’ footpaths, head to nearby Petworth for its antique shops, winding up at The Hungry Guest for coffee and a golden pastry.

Where to stay nearby: The Star , in nearby Alfriston, is a recently revamped 15th-century inn where old meets new, and old exposed beams hang above vibrant textiles from East Sussex designer Richard Smith.

10. Solva, Pembrokeshire

Even on the greyest day Solva adds a flash of colour to the Pembrokeshire coast, with its brightly painted cottages. Take the plunge off the harbour wall at high tide and scale The Gribin – a rocky headland at the entrance to the harbour – for views along the coast and across to St Brides Bay. When the sun does shine, arm yourself with an ice cream from Pointz Castle before grabbing a spot on the beach to watch the sun go down with a takeaway fish platter (go for the dressed crab and lobster) from Mrs Will the Fish .

Where to stay nearby: A short drive from the town is Twr y Felin , Wales’s first contemporary art hotel. A former windmill built in the early 19th century, the hotel features more than 100 pieces of specially commissioned modern art, as well as a lounge, a snug bar and the surprisingly formal restaurant Blas (Welsh for taste) on the ground floor.

11. Orford, Suffolk

There is something mesmerising about this coastal village, with its 10-mile-long shingle spit of Orford Ness – where a lighthouse sits – and its castle that’s worthy of a storybook. Tucked away on the Market Square is the no-frills Butley Orford Oysterage, where half a dozen plump oysters should kick-start any lunch and seasonal specials, such as potted brown shrimp or grilled lobster, are scribbled on a chalkboard. At the Pinney’s of Orford shop, down by the quay, stock up on its own smoked fish or that day’s catches.

Where to stay nearby: Located in the village,  The Crown & Castle  is an award-winning restaurant with 21 modern rooms.

12. Helford, Cornwall

Perhaps it’s the fact that Daphne du Maurier based her novel Frenchman’s Creek in the area – about a love affair between an English lady and a French pirate – or just the labyrinth of overhanging trees, bridges and hidden bays that make Helford village and river so romantic. Arrive by ferry from the Helford Passage (boats leave from the beach in front of the Ferry Boat Inn), grab a table outside The Shipwrights Arms (where you can take your pick from over 20 types of rum) and watch the boats coming and going from the pub’s own pontoon.

Where to stay nearby: Budock Vean Hotel  is one of the only places to stay nearby in Helford Passage. Covering 65 acres of sub-tropical gardens, the sprawling hotel has an indoor pool, spa and 9-hole golf course.

13. Southrop, Gloucestershire

There’s always a risk that Cotswold villages can be a little too sickly sweet, a little too manicured, or rammed with busloads of tourists – but if there were anywhere to embrace that alluring yellow stone and idealised version of rural England, it might just be Southrop. 

Where to stay nearby: Book a room in the Thyme hotel (the Hollywood-style room comes with a home cinema), sign up for a class at the cookery school or tuck into a feasting menu to share (perhaps pumpkin and ricotta salad followed by a leg of lamb) at the estate’s pub, The Swan.

14. Iford, Wiltshire

Hidden in a valley outside Bradford on Avon is this tiny hamlet, so lovely you’ll be glad you made the detour from nearby Bath ’s big-hitting sights. Iford Manor takes centre stage (with its Grade 1-listed Peto garden), the River Frome flows in front of it and Britannia stands proudly on top of the medieval bridge. Walk through the valley to The Inn at Freshford to cool off with a drink in the beer garden, or join the queue for the mobile artisan pizzeria at The Freshford Village Memorial Hall on Friday nights.

Where to stay nearby: The Pig near Bath is a 30-minute drive away, and well worth it too. It’s a joy to sleep here, in the 29 pretty bedrooms that have turned a former family country house into a boutique hotel. It also has the largest kitchen garden of all The Pigs, making dining here a lure for Bath locals as well as the hotel’s guests.

15. Burnham Market, Norfolk

Walk the length of Burnham Market’s smart high street, with its redbrick houses and colourful windows, for an exercise in old-fashioned shopping: there’s a post office, butcher, hardware shop and fishmongers. But it’s not all essentials. Among the assortment of independent shops is The Hat Shop , an emporium of thousands of flamboyant bits of headwear to marvel at. For lunch, join the queue at The Crab Hut three miles away on Brancaster Staithe harbour, where baguettes are stuffed with crab, prawns and lobster, before heading on for a bracing walk on Brancaster beach.

Where to stay nearby: The Hoste Arms is a 35-room restaurant inn, with retro decor and modern bathrooms. The restaurant is serviced by the biggest Aga in the world, and the spa offers surprisingly inexpensive holistic treatments for both men and women.

16. Hambleton, Rutland

Sitting on the sun-drenched terrace at the 18th-century Finch’s Arms , surrounded by boats bobbing happily on Rutland Water, it’s easy to forget that you’re in landlocked Rutland. The Hambleton Peninsula is fast garnering a reputation as a millionaires’ playground, with lavish waterfront properties appearing among the pretty village houses. But that doesn’t taint the draw of sunsets over the water that rival any coastal equivalent, the annual arrival of migrating ospreys and easy ambles around the peninsula.

Where to stay nearby: Overlooking the navy expanse of Rutland Water, Hambleton Hall is a vast country pile that has been welcoming guests since 1980, with an in-house restaurant that has held a Michelin star since 1982 (nowhere in the UK has retained one for this long).

17. Kinsale, County Cork

Pick up a coffee through the hatch at O’Herlihys café before weaving through Kinsale’s electrifyingly bright streets, plotting your next food stop in Ireland ’s foodie capital. Once a medieval fishing port, it’s enviably sheltered, with two forts guarding the narrow entrance from the sea. For big Atlantic views head to Old Head and stretch your legs on the four-mile loop around the peninsula, before returning to Kinsale and bagging a spot under a blanket in The Black Pig ’s garden for a glass of wine and half a dozen oysters.

Where to stay nearby: Just near the harbour, Lemon Leaf Café & Townhouse is a charming cafe and bar with smart rooms to book.

18. Portree, Isle of Skye

The fairy-tale palette of Portree’s seafront is a welcome splash of colour when the inevitable Highlands drizzle descends. Developed in the 19th century by the local chieftain Lord MacDonald as a fishing village, it sits in the shadow of the towering Ben Tianavaig to the south, Fingal’s Seat to the west and Ben Chrachaig to the north. For a spectacle of bagpipes and highland flings, time your visit to coincide with the Isle of Skye Highland Games , which take place on ‘The Lump’, a hill that rises above the old quay and juts into Loch Portree.

Where to stay nearby: The grand Cuillin Hills Hotel is beautifully positioned overlooking Portree Bay. After exploring the extensive grounds, cosy up for a nightcap at the hotel’s dedicated Malt Whisky Embassy.

These are the best things to do on the Isle of Skye

19. Alnmouth, Northumberland

A violent storm on Christmas Day in 1806 changed the course of the River Aln and marked the decline of Alnmouth as a busy port. Today, the estuary weaves around the quiet village on the edge of the North Sea. And striding out across the vast expanse of golden sand that surrounds it when the tide is out, with kite surfers dotted in the distance, you’ll wonder if you’ve landed it all to yourself. Head west to Alnwick on the 1.5-mile Aln Valley Cycle Path and join the Harry Potter fans on their pilgrimage to Alnwick Castle , where the first two of JK Rowling’s books were filmed .

Where to stay nearby : Blow away the cobwebs at Limpet Cottage in nearby Boulmer. Set in a quiet remote cove, the tiny cottage has floor-to-ceiling windows that open straight onto the beach.

20. Hutton le Hole, North Yorkshire

On the edge of the North York Moors National Park, with a stream trickling through it and sheep roaming freely is Hutton le Hole. In the summer, plant yourself on the grass in the centre of the village with a picnic and paddle in the stream, and when the heavens open, hibernate in one of its tea shops for a hearty slice of cake. Don’t leave without filling up at The Chocolate Factory , set up in the village by chocoholic brothers Gareth and Chris East nearly 20 years ago.

Where to stay nearby: The Feversham Arms in nearby Helmsley wouldn't look out of place in Burford or on Broadway. The bedrooms are large with painted wood panelling and simple, elegant furniture, plus there's an outdoor swimming pool and a spa.

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.

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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.

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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.

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The Ultimate Guide to the British Countryside

England may not boast the best beaches or reliable weather, but it does possess a pretty exquisite countryside. From endless rolling hills to cobblestone streets, there is so much of the country's landscape to explore. Here, BAZAAR.com's ultimate guide to the British Countryside.

Soho Farmhouse

Astley Castle

An ancient Medieval moated castle is definitely not your average Airbnb find, but thanks to Britain's Landmark Trust, you can rent Astley Castle —winner of the Stirling Prize, Britain's most prestigious architectural award—for your next vacation. (Murder Mystery dinner party, anyone?) From the exterior you might expect a complete ruin, but behind these crumbled walls lays a fully operational contemporary house—a delightful and unexpected twist. The property comfortably sleeps eight with four double bedrooms, three bathrooms and a large open-plan living area. The dining table is fittingly suitable for a king and queen. A three-night stay is roughly £700.

Shingle House, Dungeness

Dungeness is not your classic fisherman's village. This seaside country resembles a desert with vast, flat land extending to low-lying marshes. Completely desolate, Scottish architects NORD thought it would be the perfect setting for the sleek design of Shingle House . The accommodation comfortably fits eight people with enough surrounding space to maximize alone time. The kitchen comes equipped with tea bags, fresh bread, butter and milk to get you started on your minimalist stay. Bathrooms are lined with REN products, including shampoo and conditioner. There is also underfloor heating and a fire—be warned, Dungeness' large unsheltered landscape means the winters are exceptionally frosty. The Shingle House, however, is by no means the only interesting house on this patch of coast. Dungeness has become a haven for artists and architects alike, with chic holiday homes scattered across the beach. This place is an Instagrammers dream; one can while away their days exploring the pebbled shores, taking in the eerie remains of buildings and boats, the crisp new homes and the abundance of wildlife in what seems like no place you have ever been before.

Ocea Island

A secluded island only accessible by low tide causeway, boat or helicopter? Sign us up. Semi-deserted, the privately-owned Ocea Island is a unique part of England's nature, untouched by inhabitancy for hundreds of years, and only recently opened to the public. Getting to the island itself is a surreal experience; driving through Essex, most locals may not have even heard of Ocea. Only accessible with car via a 4,000-year-old causeway built by the Romans, which rises from the estuary at low tide, it can be difficult to get the timing right. But you can also fly via helicopter from London's Battersea. In recent years, the island has become a haunt for London's young A-listers—and summer celebrity parties are a regular occurrence. Famous guests include Poppy Delevingne and Sienna Miller.

Stay in Manor House , a Great Gatsby-esque mansion complete with four-poster beds and its own private pool. Or for a slightly more romantic stay, retire in one of the charming 17 th century cottages. Bikes are provided to explore the island–no shops, no pubs, just 380 acres of uninterrupted countryside. If you miss the tide and get stuck for another night, things could be worse.

The Wild Rabbit

A former pub transformed into another Cotswolds gem, The Wild Rabbit is an atmospheric restaurant and hotel, all housed in a very pretty stone building. Although rustic in feel, the dining area is bright and beautifully laid with artisan tableware and seasonal herbs. Food is largely organic with many ingredients grown in their own garden. Rabbit is, of course, a regular on the menu along with plenty of tempting modern British flavors. Leave room for pudding.

Daylesford, Kingham

Daylesford is known nationwide as the best supplier of organic produce. Its farm, located in the upmarket area of Kingham in The Cotswolds, is set in the middle of unspoiled countryside. Daylesford's farm house is always buzzing with locals exploring the abundance of organic treats from the farm shop—fresh meat and vegetables as well as pre-prepared salads and baked goods are all available to take away. For those with more time, reserve a table (Daylesford can get busy, especially on weekends) and dine in for lunch. The menu is filled with Daylesford classics like the standout cottage pie as well as fresh "super green" salads. In summer, the outdoor pizza ovens are fired up–we recommend dining al fresco in the fresh country air.

Bamford Haybarn Spa

The luxury Bamford Haybarn Spa is just another reason to visit Daylesford Farm. Step into the white-washed spa cottage and feel automatically at ease, with sun loungers lining the windows overlooking expansive views of endless green acreage. Guests are invited to relax on the loungers before or after treatments while enjoying the spa's signature herbal tea. A variety of sensual treatments are available to book, on top of gentle yoga and pilates classes. In keeping with the farm's ethos, treatments use botanic Bamford products made organically in England. For the ultimate package, book in for the "Perfect Haybarn Day," beginning with a 60-minute yoga class to unblock and clear the mind, followed by a Bamford Bespoke Facial and Bamford Body Signature—a full body indulgence involving a footbath, Shiatzu massage and (to end) an Indian head massage.

Danesfield House Hotel and Spa

The setting is utterly romantic in this 1901 Renaissance Manor overlooking the River Thames. As well as offering a range of luxurious treatments, Danesfield House is known for its state-of-the-art gymnasium featuring bespoke fitness classes as well as a complimentary osteopathy consultations (available on request). Robes are donned on arrival and are encouraged to be worn throughout your stay. Packages cater to couples, brides-to-be as well as singles simply in need of a time out. All hotel guests are entitled to full use of the Spa facilities, including the pool and jacuzzi, so best to make this visit an overnight stay.

The Herb House

The Herb House Spa , located in New Forest National Park, is an idyllic setting for a weekend of relaxation and rejuvenation. Let go of any city or travel tensions in the heated outdoor pool, steam room and sauna surrounded by forest views. Choose from an expansive list of treatments including reflexology, anti-aging facials, hot stone massages and a Mud House wrap for full body purification. For those wanting more of a health kick, try one of the intensive fitness packages curated by Britain's leading personal trainer Matt Roberts. Restorative yoga and meditation classes are also available on the Herb House roof garden. A variety of day spa packages include access to Raw and Cured , the spa's own raw food cafe offering fresh juices and lunches focused on natural ingredients. To top off your visit, stay overnight in the Lime Wood boutique country house. The only danger is you may never want to check out.

Blenheim Palace

The Versailles of England, this grand estate was once home to Sir Winston Churchill. Now a World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace is one for your bucket lists. Set aside a full day to discover its extensive grounds and historical State Rooms and save some energy and catch a miniature train to the Pleasure Gardens. Once you finally tire, stop by Blenheim's local town of Woodstock for a well deserved afternoon tea–scones, jam and clotted cream is our choice. It doesn't get more British than this–it's no wonder Dior is so fond of showing their Couture presentations here.

Rye, East Sussex

Just under just two hours by car from London, this charming village makes for the perfect day trip. Perched on a hilltop, Rye stands proud from the surrounding marshlands. Wander through the narrow, cobbled twists and turns of the town's famously beautiful Mermaid Street, past delightful teashops, family-run pubs and crumbling Tudor houses and you will think time has stopped. Venture further uphill to the church tower and take in expansive sea views stretching to France. Stop for lunch and a pint of ale at The Mermaid Inn , an antique Medieval dining house serving British pub classics like fish and chips with mushy peas. The cellars here date back to 1156 so it's doing well to remain (relatively) in tact.

Little Solsbury Hill

Little Solsbury Hill , a landmark treasure protected by England's National Trust, is located close to the picturesque city of Bath. At 625 feet, its height allows for immense views—perfect to watch the world unfold below. Conditions are often muddy, so it's best to do as the Brits do and don rubber "wellies" on the walk. The National Trust has excellent guides available to plan the best route; it takes roughly an hour to reach the top.

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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

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Countryside breaks

See the famous moors and National Parks that have inspired writers such as Michael Morpurgo, Ted Hughes, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Walk through the hills of England’s countryside, and see it teeming with wildlife, or explore the strangely temperate microclimates of Scilly where you can find birds and plants that can’t be found elsewhere in the UK. An active holiday in the English countryside is perfect for tuckering out the kids or blowing away the cobwebs of everyday living – so grab a bike and ride some of the trails and villages of the outdoors. The beautiful Cotswolds provide the perfect picnicking spot. Or you could wander Wiltshire with its heritage sights like Stonehenge, and take in some of the country’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty; we have thirty-three!

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7 walks perfect for autumn

Where to go fruit picking in autumn

10 amazing views in the Lake District

Explore Nene Park in the River Nene Valley

Imagine somewhere beautiful, safe and unspoilt where you can explore endless meadows, lakes and woodland, and the River Nene.

Location: Peterborough, Cambridgeshire

Escape to Surrey’s hills and English gardens

With wonderful English gardens like RHS Wisley, the hills of Box Hill and Leith Hill and access to the North Downs Way, Surrey is a real rural treat.

Location: Dorking, Surrey

Stay in a cottage built by an amazing Victorian inventor

Experience Cragside in Northumberland as many have never seen it before – by staying in the spectacular and dramatic grounds of the Cragside Estate.

Location: Rothbury, Northumberland

Visit the home of the Dymock Poets in the Forest of Dean

In the quiet village of Dymock, literacy history was being made by six of the finest poets of the early 20th century.

Location: Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire

Stay at All Stretton Bunkhouse in the Shropshire Hills

Experience the great outdoors with a stay at All Stretton Bunkhouse, nestled deep in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Location: Church Stretton, Shropshire

Explore The Lake District's Secret Valley

Rannerdale lies between the smaller lakes of Buttermere and Loweswater, a true hidden gem in a place brimming with atmosphere and local legend.

Location: Buttermere, Cumbria

Join the A-List on a narrow boat holiday

You just can’t beat messing about in boats and travelling at just 4 miles an hour you are sure to unwind.

Location: Chirk, Shropshire

Cycle along a disused railway line in Stratford-upon-Avon

Explore the English countryside saddle side whilst cycling the 5-mile long Stratford Greenway.

Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire

Stay at stylish Middlethorpe Hall and Spa

Treat yourself to good food and plenty of relaxation at Middlethorpe Hall.

Location: York, North Yorkshire

Enjoy a rural escape at Kitley House Hotel

This 500 year old country house is set in the heart of the South Devon countryside making it the perfect destination for a relaxing and enjoyable break.

Location: Plymouth, Devon

Discover Yorkshire fayre and hospitality at the Shibden Mill Inn

Nestling in the fold of the picturesque Shibden Valley is fantastic food, drink and sumptuous accommodation at the 17th century Shibden Mill Inn.

Location: Halifax, Yorkshire

Enjoy an award-winning rural retreat

This 16th century manor house near Clitheroe, in the heart of Lancashire's Ribble Valley, is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing break.

Location: Clitheroe, Lancashire

Enjoy a luxurious family getaway at the Manor Farmhouse

With a heated pool, sauna, cinema and billiard room on site, your family will never want to leave the Manor Farmhouse.

Location: Milstead, Kent

Go on a ‘legless ramble’ through East Sussex’s countryside

Escape to the English countryside and explore Beachy Head in East Sussex, first on a brewery tour and then on foot.

Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex

Lounge and dine in a Georgian Country House

Stay in an early Georgian country house set in three acres of mature English gardens and woodland, just a short journey from historic Lincoln.

Location: Lincoln, Lincolnshire

Cycle, sail or swim in the Norfolk Broads

Sense the sounds, smells and colours of spring at Waveney River Centre in Norfolk, a serene countryside retreat with plenty of outdoor activities.

Location: Norwich, Norfolk

Escape to Winchcombe, the walking capital of the Cotswolds

Explore an undiscovered side to the north Cotswolds by combining a tranquil stay in the ancient town of Winchcombe with some fantastic walking routes.

Location: Winchcombe, Gloucestershire

Castles, keeps and country retreats

Explore the keep and ramparts of a 12th century castle, and the ornate interiors and gardens of Houghton Hall and Sandringham House.

Location: King's Lynn, Norfolk

Enjoy tiger walks and water sports in Norfolk

Try out a variety of family-friendly watersports on the broads. Discover rare animals from Asia on a tiger walk, all close to Great Yarmouth.

Location: Great Yarmouth, Norfolk

Wonder at windmills and wander the Weavers Way

Take a hike on the network of pathways under the vast Norfolk skies to the Berney Arms windmill and the remotest railway station in England.

Location: Berney Arms and the Halvergate Marshes, near Great Yarmouth, Norfolk

Get back to nature at Wootton Park

Escape to the countryside and experience the magic of Wootton Park in Warwickshire.

Location: Henley-in-Arden, Warwickshire

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The Cotswolds: The 20 Best Places To Visit

The Cotswolds epitomise the very best of the English countryside: gorgeous villages of honey-coloured stone nestling in the hills, surrounded by green fields that have been farmed for centuries.

Covering over 2,000 square kilometres and the second largest protected landscape in England, visitors to the Cotswolds will be spoilt for choice with things to see and do.

Here’s our list of twenty of the best places to enjoy if you’re lucky enough to find yourself in this beautiful part of the country.

Table of Contents

One of the principal towns in the Cotswolds, Burford sits on the River Windrush eighteen miles to the west of Oxford.

Its high street of golden stone buildings is typical of the area. Notable landmarks include the Grade I listed parish church of St John the Baptist, the beautiful Burford Priory and the 16th century Tolsey building, once a meeting place for medieval merchants and now home to a museum charting the town’s history.

Burford is a great location for shoppers, with a treasure trove of antiques shops and up-market boutiques. After flexing your credit card, why not take a break in one of its excellent restaurants and spend the night at a historic inn.

2. Castle Coombe

Not one of the more famous Cotswolds villages – which reduces the number of tourists – but one of the prettiest.

Castle Coombe is one of several Wiltshire villages in this list. It is divided into two main areas: the By Brook next to the river, and Upper Castle Coombe, on higher ground to the east.

The village has a collection of picturesque landmarks including a market cross, two water pumps and a parish church with what is reputed to be one of the oldest working clocks in England. There is also a luxury hotel and a golf course, and on the edge of the village something a little different – the Castle Combe racing circuit, where you can try out different vehicles or test the limits of your own.

3. Cirencester

Lying on the lower slopes of the Cotswold Hills, Cirencester is sometimes referred to as the “Capital of the Cotswolds”.  It has been an important town for centuries and the local Corinium museum traces its long history through artefacts including Anglo-Saxon gold, Roman mosaics and medieval sculptures.

Visitors with some time to spare should head west to Cirencester Park, the country house of Earl Bathurst, to view its collections of art and spectacular gardens. As well as the pleasant walks and grottoes, the park contains the tallest yew hedge in England. The million tons of clippings produced by its annual pruning are used in the manufacture of drugs to treat cancer.

4. Upper and Lower Slaughter

As well as having the most interesting names in the Cotswolds (Slaughter is actually derived from the ancient English word for muddy), Upper and Lower Slaughter are amongst the area’s most beautiful villages. They are also extremely old: they were mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086.

Both Slaughters lie on the banks of the tiny river Eye, a tributary of the Windrush. A ford crosses the water at its widest point and several stone footbridges connect the two sides of the communities. Amongst the historic buildings are the Old Mill at Lower Slaughter, now open to the public and housing a museum, tea room and gift shop. There is limited parking  in the villages, but they are easily reached on foot via a pleasant stroll from Bourton-on-the-Water.

5. Bourton-On-The-Water

As its name suggests, Bourton lies on a river, the Windrush, which meanders its way through the heart of the village flanked by long, wide greens. The several bridges which arch across the water have given Bourton its nickname of “The Venice of the Cotswolds”.

The river is at the heart of village life and provides the unlikely venue for an annual game of medieval football. Both the goals are placed in the river itself, making this the wettest  football match you’re ever likely to see. Year-round attractions include a one-ninth scale model of the village (complete with its own model village), the Cotswold Motoring Museum, and Birdland Park and Gardens, home to avian life from penguins through to parrots.

6. Chipping Norton

Fondly known as “Chippy” to the locals, Chipping Norton still runs much as it has since the 13th century. Unlike some of its neighbours it remains a ‘real’ town, not yet overshadowed by the demands of tourism.

There has been a market here since the 13th century, while the 15th century saw the town thrive with the profits of the wool trade. The great church of St Mary, with its richly decorated interiors, provides evidence of its former wealth and status.

Even older than the church and market are the Rollright Stones, an ancient megalithic stone circle just to the north of the village. The circle is comprised of three monuments known as the King’s Stone, the King’s Men and the Whispering Knights. Legend has it that a local witch petrified the king and his men when the king failed a challenge, and that the King’s Stone comes to life when the church clock strikes midnight.

7. Winchcombe

A haven for walkers, Winchcombe sits on no fewer than seven different long-distance footpaths: the Cotswold Way, Gloucestershire Way, Wychavon Way, Windrush Way, Warden’s Way, St Kenelm’s Way and St Kenelm’s Trail. Keen ramblers should visit in May when the town holds its annual walking festival.

For lovers of locomotives, Winchcombe also has a station on the restored heritage Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway. Nearby Sudeley Castle (shown above) with its nine beautiful gardens is well worth a visit, but check the website before you go: it remains a private residence and is only open to visitors at particular times of the year.

8. Broadway

Sometimes referred to as the “Jewel of the Cotswolds”, Broadway’s pretty high street is lined with a variety of shops and cafés and is known as a centre for arts and antiques. Visitors planning to stay in the town will find a variety of accommodation, including the grand Lygon Arms, a historic inn dating back to the 17th century.

As well as plenty of places to eat and shop, Broadway offers two museums, the Ashmoleon and the Gordon Russell Museum, dedicated to the twentieth century furniture maker. Just outside the village the imposing Broadway Tower has a long and fascinating history. Used in its time as a beacon, a residence for famous artists, and a wartime look-out point, it is today open to visitors. Climb to the top to enjoy stunning views of the Cotswold scenery.

9. Moreton-in-Marsh

One of the Cotswold towns to be served by its own railway station, pretty Moreton-in-Marsh has a small high street lined with golden-coloured buildings. A handful of antiques, craft and gift shops are supplemented by several good cafés and hotels.

The nearby Batsford Arboretum houses England’s largest private collection of trees and shrubs, as well as glass and woodturning studios where visitors can observe the craftspeople at work. The venue hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including photography workshops and treasure hunts.

10. Stow-on-the-Wold

The small market town of Stow-on-the-Wold is thought to have originated as an Iron Age fort. In later centuries several fairs were established there and the large market square that still stands at its centre testifies to its former importance to regional trading.

Today, Stow has many fine antique shops, art galleries and crafts shops. A farmer’s market is held in the town square on the second Thursday of every month, and May and October see hundreds of visitors arrive for the Gypsy Horse Fair, held in open fields just ten minutes’ walk from the town centre.

The picture postcard village of Bibury lies on the banks of the river Coln in Gloucestershire. Named “the most beautiful village in England” by the famous designer and artist William Morris, perhaps Bibury’s most photographed cottages are those found at Arlington Row.  These were once the homes of weavers and wool was washed there before being taken to nearby Arlington Mill. In recent times they have been used as locations for television series and films including  Stardust and  Bridget Jones’s Diary.

This is a village to look at and enjoy. There is little in the way of amenities, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a prettier spot to while away a quiet afternoon.

12. Cricklade

Everything you need to know about Cricklade can be summed up by the town’s Latin motto, i n loco delicioso -“in a pleasant place”.

Founded in the ninth century, today its main claim to fame is its large nature reserve, North Meadow. Here, the unique habitat formed by the regular winter flooding of the rivers Thames and Churn provides a home for eighty per cent of England’s snake’s head fritillaries – a pretty, purple flower which blooms in late April to early May.

In June, the annual Cricklade Festival welcomes thousands of visitors from across the region to enjoy a day of free entertainment including live music, dancers, magicians and puppet shows.

13. Tetbury

Tetbury’s history as an important market for the Cotswold wool and yarn trade has shaped one of those eccentric traditions beloved of English provincial life – the annual Tetbury Woolsack Races. Participants carry a 60 pound sack of wool up and down the steeply sloping Gumstool Hill to raise money for good causes. Visit on the last Monday of May to join the thousands of spectators cheering them on.

Both Charles, the Prince of Wales and Anne, the Princess Royal have estates near Tetbury. You can sample some of the produce from the former in the town’s own Highgrove Shop. Whilst in the town centre be sure to check out the historic market hall and the “Chipping Steps”, once home to a medieval jobs fair.

14. Malmesbury

The market of Malmesbury in Wiltshire lies in the southern reaches of the Cotswolds. It is perhaps best known for its ancient abbey which provides the resting place for Athelstan, grandson of Alfred the Great and the first king to rule the whole of England. The abbey guest house was constructed in 1220 and now houses The Old Bell, which claims to be the oldest hotel in the country.

The last two weeks of August see the Malmesbury carnival come to town, with the finale procession held on the first Saturday in September. Over thirty events take part around the carnival itself, including a recent attempt to break the world record for the largest pillow fight.

15. Stanton

Built almost completely of golden Cotswold stone, Stanton is considered to have some of the most distinguished architecture of any of the Cotswold villages. Its parish church, St Michael’s and All Angels, is a Grade I listed building with the oldest parts dating back to 1200. Other notable buildings include the Elizabethan Old Manor Farmhouse and Stanton Court, a manor house built early in the seventeenth century.

The 102 mile footpath, the Cotswold Way, runs through Stanton. Visitors climbing the steep hill from the village to the Mount Inn will be rewarded with a real fire in winter and spectacular views from the terrace in summer.

16. Cheltenham

Located on the edge of the Cotswolds, the elegant Regency town of Cheltenham has been a spa resort ever since its mineral springs were discovered in 1716.

The town is a great destination for culture vultures. Its main museum and art gallery, the Wilson, hosts regular exhibitions and events throughout the year, while music lovers can sample from three regular festivals – the Cheltenham Music Festival, Jazz Festival and the somewhat more niche Ukelele Festival of Great Britain.

For sports lovers, the Cheltenham Cricket Festival features Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, whilst March sees Cheltenham Racecourse host yet another Cheltenham Festival, the National Hunt horseracing meeting.

17. Chipping Campden

Another of the Cotswold towns to have a rich history in the wool trade, today Chipping Campden is a popular destination for tourists looking to sample its independent shops, cafés and restaurants. Cultural attractions include a literary and music festival, while there are many pleasant walks through the town and surrounding countryside.

Chipping Campden has hosted the annual Olimpick Games since 1612, with sports including the painful skin-kicking, the destructive piano smashing, and the inexplicable “dwile flonking”, involving two teams of dancers and a wet rag. Fireworks, a torch-lit procession and dancing mark the end of the festivities, which take place on the Friday after the Spring Bank Holiday.

18. Northleach

Founded in the eighth century, the small market town of Northleach near Cheltenham has  a population of fewer than 2,000 people. The compact town centre has changed little in over 500 years: small alleys lined with half-timbered houses lead off the marketplace, and it is rumoured that a maze of tunnels and vaults lie beneath the streets.

Most of the shops in Northleach are independently owned and offer everything from bread and cakes to dolls houses and music boxes. Visitors looking to extend their stay will find a good selection of accommodation, pubs and restaurants.

19. Snowshill

The tiny village of Snowshill, with its fewer than 200 inhabitants, makes up for in beauty what it lacks in size. It is also one of the most fragrant of the Cotswold villages, home to 35 acres of lavender fields at Snowshill Lavender. Visitors to the farm can purchase lavender products, plants and local crafts.

Just outside the village lies Snowshill Manor, built in the 16th century and now owned by the National Trust. Built in Cotswold stone, it is notable for housing the collection of one of  its former owners, Charles Paget Wade. Wade’s tastes were nothing if not eclectic, and visitors can view objects including alarm clocks, toys, musical instruments and 26 sets of Japanese samurai armour.

Our list closes with something a little different…

The otherwise unassuming town of Bladon is notable for one reason: it is the resting place of probably the most famous Englishman of the past 100 years, wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

Generations of Churchills lie in the small churchyard of St Martin’s. Winston’s wife, Clementine, who died twelve years after her husband is buried in the same grave.

Now that we’ve whet your appetite for the Cotswolds, why not take a look at our gallery of ten stunning Cotswolds cottages.

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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

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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

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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...

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.

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With over 3 million acres of countryside to explore in South East England, it's the perfect place to escape the four walls and enjoy some great open spaces, fresh air and exercise. Discover the National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, country parks, nature reserves, glorious gardens, waymarked walks of the South East.... there's no better place to fall in love with the great outdoors.

South East England is home to two National Parks covering over 2,193km2 between them. New Forest National Park in Hampshire, famous for its colourful heather, and ponies that wander through the villages and across its large open expanses and forest trails, and South Downs National Park which stretches from Winchester to Eastbourne, through the counties of Hampshire, West Sussex and East Sussex, and is the newest National Park in the UK. One of the many iconic images of the South, is the white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head which is part of the South Downs, along with the famous Devils Dyke, Blackdown and ancient forests of Kingsley Vale, all providing some of the best countryside in the UK. Don't miss the chance to visit both parks when you are here in South East England, they have very different landscapes and experiences to enjoy.

We encourage you to explore the countryside at every opportunity, it is so good for your well-being and mental health. However, whilst you are out and about remember to follow the Countryside Code - RESPECT - PROTECT - ENJOY . This countryside code contains advice for the public and landowners, making it easier for visitors to help respect, protect and enjoy the outdoors

Beautiful Places Near Me

There are an amazing nine Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in South East England. These have been recognised for their exceptional landscape, character, and natural beauty, and are prized enough to be protected for all to enjoy. Whether you choose to hunt for dinosaur footprints on the Isle of Wight, follow in the path of Olympians in the Surrey Hills or be charmed by the space and beauty of Chichester Harbour, these areas offer the chance to explore the beautiful English countryside easily. Reaching into every county in the South East it doesn't matter where you stay or visit, it is easy to head out and explore these stunning rural areas with the Kent Downs, Surrey Hills, North Wessex Downs and Chiltern Hills providing the easiest access to countryside near London.

• The Cotswolds, Oxfordshire
• North Wessex Downs AONB, Berkshire
• Chiltern Hills AONB, Buckinghamshire
• High Weald AONB, Sussex
• Kent Downs AONB
• Surrey Hills AONB
• Chichester Harbour AONB, Sussex
• Dorset AONB
• Isle of Wight AONB

Half the Isle of Wight is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making it an ideal escape to the country.  A varied terrain includes dramatic coastlines with heritage status, nature reserves, woodlands, chalk hills and stunning views that'll test the memory of any smartphone camera.

There are approximately 50 chalk carved figures in the UK countryside, the most famous is the Uffington White Horse in Oxfordshire, which is located 25 miles outside of Oxford and is believed to date back to the bronze age. It can be found in the aptly named Vale of the White Horse and can be seen for miles dancing over the Ridgeway hills. Head to Eastbourne and walk to the bottom or top of the Long Man of Wilmington , a giant etched out in slopes of Windover Hill.

Don't miss the ever changing seasons that bring yearly change to the countryside, from carpets of white snowdrops in winter (January - February) the stunning bluebells walks  that follow (April - May) or the rich colours of Autumm that signal the end of summer.

Best Views Near Me

• Don't miss the chance to take in the stunning views of Newlands Corner, Box Hill, Devils Punchbowl  and Leith Hill in the Surrey Hills.
• Take a wander up  St Catherines Hill , on the outskirts of Winchester for breath-taking views over the city. 
• Make some time when visiting Brighton to head out to  Devils Dyke , just 5 miles north-west of of the city, with its deep V-shaped valley and selection of walking trails on offer. 
• Head to  Cissbury Ring , near Worthing, the largest hill fort in Sussex dating back some 5,000 years and offering stunning views over Brighton and beyond from its ramparts. 
• Explore  Beachy Head  and some of the best views of the Seven Sisters  near Eastbourne, with its dramatic scenery and amazing views, the highest chalk cliff in the South East. 
• Head to Butser Hill the highest point in Hampshire, part of the world's newest International Dark Sky Reserve - a stargazing delight.  Dont miss the chance to visit Butser Ancient Farm whilst you are here, an archaeology site where you can step back in time. 
• Wander through the beautiful archway of trees and head up to the Halnakar Windmill to enjoy views over Sussex, Goodwood and the South Coast beyond.
• Explore the ancient forest of Kingley Vale, full of twisted branches and an air of mystery. Head to the top and enjoy stunning views over West Sussex countryside.
• Visit Hengistbury Head to the south of Christchurch Harbour, a wind sweep headland offering beautiful views over Isle of Wight, New Forest and Purbecks.

The Test Valley runs from the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty right down to the New Forest National Park in the south, with walkers and cyclists being able to enjoy parts of the 44 mile Test Way, nestling between   Winchester, Salisbury and the  New Forest .  

Most of the world's chalk streams are found here in the southeast of England. The crystal-clear water provides a unique habit for wildlife, and is one of most biodiverse types of rivers in the UK, they provide a beautiful place to walk and lookout for wildlife. The rivers wander through some of the most beautiful British countryside with tranquil water meadows and rolling chalk hills. The River Test, Itchen and Meon are the three main chalk rivers in Hampshire.

You may not know that the South East is also home to two UNESCO Biosphere Reserves  at Brighton and the Isle of Wight - there are only 7 sites in the UK. These Biospheres bring together rural, marine and urban environments, to take care of these special places for both nature and people. 

Our extensive list below will help you find a host of ideas and countryside near me to visit when next in South East England. 

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Visit Arundel

Countryside, Parks & Gardens

Arundel captures the essence of heritage, urban chic and country pursuits, all within a stone’s throw of London. Experience our market town and you will discover more than you’d expect.

Manor Steps Beach

Manor Steps Beach recently received a Blue Flag Award. Manor Steps is a delightful location on Bournemouth's seafront. An ideal family choice for a day or a stay at the beach, Manor Steps is close to amenities and restaurants. 

Hove Lawns Beach

Hove seafront begins at Hove Lawns and stretches right along to Hove Lagoon, near Portslade. There is a stunning walk along the seafront, especially just as the sun rises or sets, from the West Pier onwards.

Itchen Valley Country Park

Country / Royal Park

Itchen Valley Country Park is set in 440 acres of beautiful water meadows, woodland and meadows situated beside the River Itchen and has been recognised with ten Green Flag Awards®

Brogdale Collections

The National Fruit Collection has over 3000 varieties of fruit trees including apples, pears, quince, plums and cherries. The orchards are a living history and heritage of fruit waiting to be discovered.

Brogdale Collections hosts a wide selection…

Dymchurch Beach

Romney Marsh

The flat, mainly sandy beach at Dymchurch stretches for approximately 3 miles along the Kent coast.  This award-winning blue flag stretches from Dungeness to Hythe and is ideal for families. 

Jane Austen Circular Walk

Come and discover the beautiful countryside that inspired Jane Austen and take a peek inside her house where she lived and worked for 8 years.

Kingsgate Bay

Some of the best examples of sea caves in the country can be found here.

Alice Holt Forest

Once famous for its oak trees which supplied timber for navy ships, Alice Holt is managed by the Forestry Commission and is a centre for a host of exciting outdoor activities in a beautiful woodland setting.

River Adur - Coastal Link & Sculpture Trail

Natural Feature

Shoreham-by-Sea

The River Adur, an important trade route since Roman times, derives its name from the Celtic word 'Dwyr', meaning 'water'. It gives its name to the Adur District dividing it roughly in half.

Edward Thomas circular walk

Walking Tour

Steep near Petersfield

A 4 mile circular walk with stunning views of the South Downs

Watlington Hill

Nature Trail / Watching

Discover an Oxfordshire dreamscape as you walk to the top of Watlington Hill, where you will find breathtaking views and fine wildlife all year round.

Springvale Beach

Springvale Beach stretches from Puckpool to Seaview on the north coast of the Isle of Wight and is made up of a mixture of shingle and sand.

River Hamble Country Park

River Hamble Country Park is a place to play, picnic, relax and explore. Have a ramble around our ancient woodland and enjoy seasonal changes - from bluebells in spring to fantastic autumn colours.

Queen Elizabeth Country Park

With over 2,000 acres of downland and woodland, Queen Elizabeth Country Park is the ideal place to explore, keep fit and enjoy the great outdoors.

This magnificent horse shoe shaped bay is the main attraction in Broadstairs.

Snelsmore Common Country Park

Heathland, valley bog and woodland. Suitable for most quiet recreational activities such as walking and picnicking. Walking distance to Donnington Castle.

Arundel Wetland Centre

Nature Reserve

A stunning nature reserve with guided boat trips through reedbeds, secluded spots to watch wildlife and a collection wildfowl from around the world.

Waddesdon Manor

Historic House / Palace

Waddesdon, a French Renaissance-style château, is set in the heart of Buckinghamshire.  Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild built the Manor in the 1870s to entertain his guests and display his collection of art treasures. It houses one of the finest…

Bates Green Garden

This naturalistic garden in a rural setting provides a peaceful space to relax and appreciate the selection of unusual plants including mature trees and shrubs. The garden is divided into 3 distinct areas offering a sensory experience with plants…

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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!

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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.

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20 best countryside towns and villages to relocate to in the UK

Perfect if you're looking to escape to the country

The research, which was conducted by the team at Compare My Move , ranked over 70 popular rural towns and villages in England and Wales, based on factors including average house price, median salary, hours of sunlight, rainfall, download speed and number of restaurants.

While Surrey took the top spot, the beautiful cathedral city of St. Albans in Hertfordshire came second place — a place famed for its rich history.

The most affordable rural location is the northern market town of Barnard Castle, which has the lowest average house price of £188,327. Meanwhile, Chichester was found to be the city with the most amount of sunlight.

Planning to relocate? Take a look at the full list below...

20 best countryside towns and villages to move to in the UK

• Guildford, Surrey (87.45 score in the study)
• St. Albans, Hertfordshire (86.48)
• Shere, Surrey (85.52)
• Dorchester-on-Thames, Oxfordshire (81.43)
• Wallingford, Oxfordshire (77.83)
• Caversham, Berkshire (77.44)
• Leamington Spa, Leamington Spa (76.78)
• Alresford, Hampshire (76.44)
• Aylesford, Kent (75.51)
• Ingatestone, Essex (74.92)
• West Mersea, Essex (74.60)
• Cheltenham, Gloucestershire (74.13)
• Epping, Essex (74.13)
• Farnham, Surrey (73.79)
• Altrincham, Greater Manchester (72.28)
• Chichester, West Sussex (72.94)
• Deal, Kent (72.07)
• Bishop's Waltham, Hampshire (72.03)
• Sevenoaks, Kent (71.11)
• Uppingham, Rutland (70.18)

"The coronavirus pandemic has seen many people reconsidering their living situation, with a large number of city dwellers ditching urban living and relocating to rural areas for a slower-paced life in the beautiful English countryside ," Dave Sayce, Managing Director at Compare My Move, says.

"It's easy to see why people are choosing a quiet life in the country as the UK is home to some of the world's most beautiful rural towns and villages. It's not surprising to see the top rural destinations are near London, with the likes of Guildford and St Albans proving popular places for Londoners to escape to, whilst having the benefit of quick and easy transport links into the city."

Like this article? Sign up to our newsletter to get more articles like this delivered straight to your inbox.

18 beautiful Christmas ornaments to buy for the festive season

Christmas Cottage Felt Rudolph Tree Decoration

Bring the outdoors in with this charming felt reindeer tree decoration. Sporting a green scarf, he has a bright red nose and hangs from jute string.

Jan Constantine Alpine Skier Man Embroidered Wool Cushion

Jazz up your sofa or bed with this charming embroidered wool cushion. It features a man skiing down a snow-covered slope with mountains and trees as a backdrop.

Glass Bell Bauble – 5.5cm

Conjure a festive spirit around your tree with this beautiful glass bell bauble. Hung from velvet ribbon, it is crafted from swirled glass and will add an elegant feel to any branch.

Wedgwood Christmas Present Tree Decoration

How gorgeous is this white and baby blue present? In Wedgwood's signature blue colouring, it's made from white porcelain and can be reused every year.

Huxley Dachshund Hanging Decoration

Dachshund through the snow...This sweet hanging decoration from the Country Living Marketplace is what every dog owner needs.

Mabel Set of 4 Baubles in White

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Ceramic Doves – Set of 4

The dove is a traditional Christmas tree decoration that symbolises peace, purity and love. A truly beautiful tree ornament, these doves are made from porcelain and are presented in a stylish white gift box.

lakeland Large Ceramic House Lantern Ornament with LED Tealight

Place this large ceramic house on your windowsill for a decorative glow. Featuring one LED tealight, it casts a warm light through its star cut-outs.

Heaven Sends Set of 2 Snowflake Christmas Ornaments

This set of two snowflake Christmas ornaments has a rustic feel to it. Beautifully carved from wood, they have an intricate cut-out pattern and will spruce up any sideboard or bookshelf.

Golden Bell Christmas Garland String Lights

Nothing says Merry Christmas quite like a string of twinkling lights. Looking for something more unique? Oliver Bonas is here to make your days merry and bright with this unique bell garland, featuring delicate gold-toned bells and 80 warm LED lights.

Wooden Nutcracker Room Decoration

No Christmas is complete without a traditional nutcracker decoration. Crafted from pinewood, he has a traditional feel and is complete with shimmering detail.

50cm Blue Berry Christmas Wreath Micro Light Bundle

Spruce up your front door with this berry Christmas wreath . Measuring 50cm and crafted from realistic faux foliage, it has been finished with a pretty velvet bow.

Striped Christmas Sack

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3 Wooden Houses Scene Light

Create a cosy winter scene at home with these three LED Christmas houses. Operated by battery, they emit a soft glow that evokes the warmth of a snug holiday home.

Personalised Tartan Hessian Stocking

Fill this hessian stocking with treats for the family to open on Christmas morning.

John Lewis Cottage Snowman Snow Globe

Shake this snow globe to see the Christmas scene covered in white dusting. It features Christmas trees, a merry snowman and his animal friends.

Snowflake Doormat

Keep your hallway floor clean with this snowflake doormat. Made from coir, it has a black border around the outside.

Traditional Christmas Tree Wooden Advent Calendar - 38 x 32 cm

Reusable advent calendars are excellent ways to count down until Christmas Day. Shaped like a tree, this wooden style from Very features 24 removable drawers, each boasting its own hand-painted design.

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The most enticing British towns you have to visit

Posted: April 27, 2024 | Last updated: April 27, 2024

When you think of the UK, perhaps the words "wonderful holiday" do not spring to mind. However, the countryside and history of the UK are vastly underrated. There are countless numbers of charming towns that will transport you back to times gone by. There is such a wealth of activities to do, from trekking up tall mountain peaks to rowing in gently ebbing rivers.

On your exploration of the United Kingdom, it is important to find the right towns to stay in to make your trip as perfect as can be. Here are the towns that you won't be able to resist being charmed by.

From Portmerion to Cullen Bay, click through to discover more.

You may also like:

Castle Combe, England

Castle Combe in Wiltshire is repeatedly voted one of the best towns in the UK for both its looks and community. It is located in the Cotswolds and is known for its signature sandy brickwork and a working medieval clock.

Painswick, England

Painswick in Gloucestershire is a true fairy-tale town with a stunning graveyard and gardens. Here are the Roccoco gardens. The town used to produce wool, and so in many of the buildings you can see doors specially made for transport donkeys.

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Rye, England

Rye in East Sussex is a great little town with beautiful 15th-century buildings with special dark wood framing. On a quaint weekend away, you can go exploring its adorable alleyways and go shopping in its well-known vintage shops.

Windsor, England

Windsor in Berkshire is the home of Windsor Castle, the largest occupied castle in the world. You probably recognize it from Harry and Meghan's wedding photograph. Aside from the castle, there is a lot to see in this town, not least some beautiful gardens. You can also visit the Ascot racecourse nearby.

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Portmerion, Wales

This bizarre little town on the coast of Wales will make you feel like you're on the Amalfi coast. The buildings are of exceptional beauty and the views are outstanding.

Clovelly, England

Clovelly in Devon is a very special place to visit. It is extremely serene because no cars are allowed in the town. You can walk along the medieval port and also hike to the highest point on the hill for a spectacular view.

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St. Ives, England

You may think this is in the Bahamas, but it's actually St. Ives in Cornwall. This old fishing village is one of the best seaside towns in Britain owing to its wonderful shops and luxurious beaches.

Warwick, England

One of the best reasons to visit Warwick in Warwickshire is to see Warwick Castle. It is a magical place where there are lots of exciting exhibitions and interactive activities. You can also visit the Lord Leycester Hospital to learn about the area's history.

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Lyndhurst, England

Lyndhurst in Hampshire is burrowed right inside the beautiful New Forest. It is the best town to stay in if you would like to stay near nature, but not on a camping site. The town offers delicious pastry shops, cute inns, and fashionable boutiques.

Applecross, Scotland

Far up north in Scotland lies the Isle of Skye. It is situated in the Scottish Highlands and has some of the best beaches Scotland can offer. It may not be very sunny, but the incredible views make up for this.

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Henley-on-Thames, England

Henley in Oxfordshire is a wonderful town based on the River Thames . Here you can see one of the best-ranked museums in the world, the River & Rowing Museum. There is also a lovely walk called the Thames Path National Trail that will take you through some beautiful spots.

Bourton-on-the-Water, England

This Gloucestershire town is as quaint as it gets. It is built around the River Windrush and is even called the "Venice of the Costwolds." You can visit the amazing Motoring Museum as well as navigating the Dragonfly Maze.

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Avebury, England

These ominous-looking stones are called Avebury's henge. The stone circles surround part of this Wiltshire village. making it a very mystical place. It is a good quick stop on the way to Salisbury.

Dedham, England

John Constable, one of the best landscape artists in history, was inspired by this gorgeous town. Dedham in Essex is the quintessential countryside town. It has very unique water meadows and stunning Georgian-fronted houses.

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Aberaeron, Wales

Aberaeron is a historic Welsh fishing town where you will find charming multicolored houses and great sea views. It's a perfect place to get some high-quality fish and chips with mushy peas.

Alfriston, England

Alfriston in East Sussex is located in the gorgeous South Downs National Park. It's very near the coastline, where you can see the chalky white cliffs of the Seven Sisters.

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Whitstable, England

This lush seaside town is known for its very colorful buildings and sweeping seascape. All of the seafood is fresh off the boat, so be sure to settle down for a delicious fish dinner when you visit Whitstable, Kent.

Burford, England

The Cotswolds always delivers when it comes to charming towns. All of the buildings are from the Georgian era–some have tiled roofs and some are thatched. There are some great tea rooms in Burford, Oxfordshire for a delicious afternoon scone.

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Bilbury, England

Bilbury in Gloucestershire is another town known for its quaintness. When you are there, be sure to visit Arlington Row, one of the sweetest streets around. The town is also near Cirencester and so it makes a good pit stop on your way.

Cullen Bay, Scotland

Cullen Bay is a quiet place to relax if you have been out exploring around Scotland. It has great views, is very hospitable, and even has its own special soup–it's called Cullen Skink and is made from potatoes and salmon.

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Knaresborough, England

Near Harrogate lies the town of Knaresborough, Yorkshire. It's a gorgeous market town where you can still to this day pick up little souvenirs and treats at the weekly Wednesday market. It also has a brilliant castle that you can't miss.

Lacock, England

If you really want to discover old England, then Lacock, Wiltshire is the town for you. You will find traditional bakeries, wood-paneled pubs, and endearing cobbled streets in this beautiful place.

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Robin Hood's Bay, England

As the name would suggest, Robin Hood's Bay in Whitby is where smugglers used to come in from the sea. There are tunnels going underneath the town where the thieves used to transport brandy, whisky, and other contraband. It has a fantastic history and a very charming appearance to boot.

Shaftesbury, England

This little town lies in the beautiful area of Dorset. It is a great place for a day trip with sights to see such as the Gold Hill Museum. They serve incredible pies and soups at The Salt Cellar.

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Conwy, Wales

As you can see in the image, this town is exceptionally grand. The whole place is jam-packed with history and has some wonderful places to chow down.

Malton, England

Malton is the food capital of Yorkshire. Here you will find delicious sweet bites, as well as the traditional pies and pasties. It has an impressive food market and is a wonderful place for a walk around.

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Hathersage, England

If you are going around the Peak District in the UK, then you must stop at the adorable town of Hathersage, Derbyshire. Surrounding it are beautiful hiking trails and some great local pubs.

Brixham, England

Brixham in Devon is situated in what is now called the "English Riviera." It offers wonderful insight into what a true fishing town is like, as well as providing lovely hotels and restaurants.

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Portree, Scotland

Portree is one of the largest towns on the Isle of Skye and so makes a perfect base if you are going to explore the island further. It is a great town with wonderful fresh seafood and good views.

Sources: (PlanetWare) (Hand Luggage Only)

See also: Britain historic religious ruins

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'Spectacular' city with 'unspoilt countryside' is best UK spot for a relaxing walk - is your area on the list?

The Weir Garden was found to be the most relaxing park

By Sarra Gray

Published: 22/04/2024

Beautiful walks across the UK have made the list of best places for a relaxing walk

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As the days get longer, it is a great opportunity to get outside and explore some of the best walks the UK has to offer.

New data revealed the 20 cities that have the most relaxing areas to enjoy a stroll in the UK, with Hereford taking the crown.

The research analysed 200,000 Tripadvisor reviews of popular parks in UK cities and towns to find which had the most mentions of words such as "relaxing", "calm", "peaceful" and "tranquil".

While Hereford was in the number one spot, cities across, Scotland, England and Wales were included meaning many people will be near a relaxing walk.

Lincoln was in the top three

Most relaxing walks

1. Hereford

4. Milton Keynes

6. Gloucester

8. Carlisle

9. Warrington

10. Newcastle-upon-Tyne

11. Leamington Spa

12. Southport

14. Cardiff

15. Chichester

16. Aberdeen

17. Leicester

18. Mansfield

19. Edinburgh

The Weir Garden is the most popular park in Hereford, according to the research conducted by Injury Claims. The National Trust says visitors can "escape to this spectacular riverside garden and be absorbed by natural beauty".

​ It added: "Bordered by the River Wye, The Weir sits within unspoilt Herefordshire countryside and has many historical secrets to uncover.

"For centuries this site has been used as a pleasure ground for fishing, boating and swimming. It is managed in a natural way to create a varied habitat for wildlife.

" In spring, see carpets of bulbs littered between ancient trees, in summer enjoy a picnic by the river to watch the wildlife and in autumn visit the walled garden bursting with seasonal produce."

Other popular parks on the list included Hartsholme Park in Lincoln, Emberton Country Park in Milton Keynes and Christ Church Meadow in Oxford.

This comes as the most scenic spot for a staycation was revealed as an "idyllic" part of the UK that also boasts incredible walks .

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Bristol made the list

Durham Heritage Coast was number one on the list, followed by Snowdonia, Jurassic Coast and the Outer Hebrides.

The experts said: "Spanning the coastline from Sunderland to Hartlepool, the Durham Heritage Coast offers a unique 11-mile coastal walk that comes to life during the spring and makes for a great staycation.

"Those taking the walk, which starts by Seaham Harbour, will come across the spectacular grasslands and coastal denes, along the idyllic trail which is brimming over with flora and fauna throughout the year. But it really is during springtime when the area comes into its own, with its woodland providing a habitat fit for animals including deer, foxes, badgers, birds and bats, while the woodland plays host to a wide array of wildflowers.

"For sealife lovers, visiting in the spring means you might be lucky enough to spot a whole host of different kinds of sea creatures."

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