England is a fascinating and historic country that played a big role in the history of the world. There are plenty of places for travelers to visit when they come to this country. Here are some of the best options.
17 of the Best Places to Visit in England
When you think of England, you probably think of the historical and metropolitan city of London. However, this country has a lot more to see. The other cities within England have unique offerings, while the countryside offers gorgeous natural vistas.
Since England is such a small country, it is easy to see a lot in a short time period. You can stay in London for a few days and then see the countryside. You may also want to stay in one city and take day trips throughout the rest of the country.
When choosing the best places to visit in England, it is essential to consider history, visual appeal, and unique qualities. Read on to discover the best places to visit in England.
1. Corfe Castle
Kevin Standage/Shutterstock
The historic Corfe Castle has been inhabited for at least 8,000 years. Today it is a village on the site of castle ruins. You can feel the history just by walking around the castle.
Boutiques and restaurants give you a taste of the modern world while honoring the past. You can also enjoy museums, adventure parks, and galleries.
2. Lake District
Daniel_Kay/Shutterstock
A UNESCO-protected site, the Lake District is a part of England filled with beautiful lakes, charming villages, and mountains. You could spend a whole trip to England just exploring this area. Besides just wandering the area, you can try paddleboarding, boats, or a tour.
3. London
Sergii Figurnyi/Shutterstock
London is one of the most beloved places to visit in England. While this list aims to highlight lesser-known areas of interest, there is no denying that London is one of the best places to visit in England.
Many of the biggest attractions in England are in London, including the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. The city also has great shopping, delicious restaurants, and activities for the whole family.
4. Bath
Valdis Skudre/Shutterstock
Steeped in its Roman roots, Bath feels different than other parts of England. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, Roman baths, and outstanding culinary options.
This spot also has numerous educational opportunities, including museums and The Jane Austen Centre. If you need to get around the city, there is an easy-to-use bus.
5. The Cotswolds
Andrew Roland/Shutterstock
If you stay in London, The Cotswolds can make a delightful day trip. This region is a large area consisting of many small villages and lovely landscapes.
While there, check out Arlington Row, Bourton-on-the-water, the Chipping Steps, and the Slaughters. Since this area is so vast, it is ideal to have a car to get around in or a tour that will guide you through.
6. St. Michaels Mount
Penzance, Cornwall, United Kingdom – August 9, 2016: View of St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall at sunset/Valerie2000/Shutterstock
St. Michael’s Mount in Cornwall is a beautiful place to visit in England. It is an island with a castle on top with elements from the 12th century. There is evidence people lived on the island as far back as the Mesolithic period.
While you can view the island from afar, you can also visit it if you have a ticket. Besides enjoying the castle itself, you can also visit the sculpture gardens, galleries, museums, and beaches.
7. Cambridge
Pajor Pawel/Shutterstock
The city of Cambridge is largely known for its University of the same name. Other features include Kings College, a gin laboratory, museums, the university botanic garden, the market square, and the Church of St. Mary the Great. Cambridge also has boat tours on the river that let you see the city in a new way.
8. Oxford
Pajor Pawel/Shutterstock
Oxford is another town known for its University. This city makes another excellent day trip from London if you are okay with a more extended trip.
Besides the university, you may enjoy Christ Church College, Oxford Botanic Garden, the Sheldonian Theatre, and the Ashmolean Museum. It is also essential to pay a visit to the local pubs.
9. Bristol
Sion Hannuna/Shutterstock
Bristol is a truly modern city that offers contemporary art, restaurants, boutiques, and other fun finds. The city is full of art from Banksy, and you can visit it on an art tour.
You can also witness the beauty of the Clifton Suspension Bridge. This compact city is great if you want to walk everywhere.
10. Watergate Bay
David W Bird/Shutterstock
Watergate Bay in Cornwall is a delightful beach area of particular interest to surfers. It is one of the most popular areas in the UK for surfing.
There are some beautiful areas you can hike around, and the town of Newquay is a short distance away. There are also plenty of delicious restaurants to visit when you tire out from surfing.
11. Norwich
Helen Hotson/Shutterstock
As England’s first medieval city, Norwich is dripping with history. When visiting Norwich, it is essential to visit the 1,000-year-old market. Other beloved attractions include cathedrals, gardens, national parks, museums, and restaurants.
Norwich is easy to walk around. However, there is also an easy-to-access bus around the area and a train to London.
12. Stonehenge
Mr. Nai/Shutterstock
Stonehenge is one of the most well-known places to visit in England. Located a short drive from London, Stonehenge is the site of several large stones that served an unknown purpose.
They may have been a site of worship, burial site, or community gathering around 2500 BC when built. When visiting this site, it is best to aim for unpopular times of year since Stonehenge is very popular.
13. Castle Howard
Shanna Hyatt/Shutterstock
Located in York, Castle Howard is a beautiful castle with grounds worth exploring for visitors. While the castle is still a residence for the Howard family, as it has been for 300 years, parts of it are open to the public.
The house itself is lovely, while the grounds contain many intriguing sites, including temples, walled gardens, and an adventure area for children. During some points in the year, it hosts afternoon teas open to the public.
14. Jurassic Coast
Bewickswan/Shutterstock
You don’t have to worry about escaping reconstituted dinosaurs on the Jurassic Coast. However, you can go fossil hunting here. This UNESCO site’s cliffs erode in a way that regularly releases plenty of fossils.
Explore the beaches and coves on a hike along the coast of the English Channel. Besides finding fossils, you will also enjoy museums, restaurants, villages, and Monkey World.
15. Robin Hood’s Bay
Peteris Dancs/Shutterstock
Nestled in Yorkshire, Robin Hood’s Bay is an adorable and historic seaside village. Like many places on the water, this area has beautiful beaches and seaside views. You can also discover fossils, such as ammonites, on the beaches.
This area also has some fascinating museums, churches, boutiques, and restaurants. While Robin Hood’s Bay is not a bustling metropolis, it is the perfect place to stop and relax.
16. Birmingham
Trabantos/Shutterstock
Birmingham is one of the larger cities in England. Popular attractions include St. Philip’s Cathedral, museums, art galleries, Aston Hall, symphony hall, Gas Street Basin, the Shakespeare Express, the Great Western Arcade, and beautiful gardens.
This city is also famous for its music scene. It is a very walkable city with eclectic architecture. The unique canals of Birmingham are beautiful and fun to navigate.
17. Manchester
Madrugada Verde/Shutterstock
Manchester is a large English city with a history based on industry and canals. The city is known for its numerous museums, cathedrals, theatres, libraries, and botanical gardens.
If you have a group who can not decide on a single activity, Manchester is a great option since there are so many activities you can do here.
Things to Consider
Before visiting anywhere, it is essential to keep a few things in mind for your travels. First, the right clothing will depend on the weather and season. In general, you should stick to light layers that suit the season.
It does rain fairly frequently. So, you should pack a rain jacket with you. Waterproof shoes and sturdy warm socks will also come in handy. There is no dress code throughout England. So, you can wear what you want. Stick to smart casual clothing if possible.
Cities and towns within England and the whole United Kingdom are generally walkable. To get around the country and throughout the UK, you will need a train, bus, or car.\
Trains can take you throughout different parts of England and the UK and even over to mainland Europe. While England is known for its beautiful countryside, there are many specific attractions popular throughout England.
Some popular options include Stonehenge, the Roman baths in Bath, the British Museum, the Tower of London, the Canterbury cathedral, Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace, York Minster, the National Railway Museum, the Eden Project, and Penny Lane.
Frequently Asked Questions
SAKhanPhotography/Shutterstock
Here are a few common questions about visiting England to help you plan your trip:
What is the best month to visit England?
The best time to visit England primarily relates to the weather and amount of activities available. In general, you should visit during late spring or early fall. So, April through June or September and October. The weather will be pretty mild during those times, and there is plenty to do.
What is the most popular tourist attraction in England?
The most popular tourist attraction in England is the Tower of London. This attraction is a castle in central London. While it was originally a royal residence, it eventually became a prison. Now it is a World Heritage Site that primarily functions as a tourist attraction.
What foods is England known for?
England has a reputation for bland food. However, many English dishes are tasty and comforting with proper preparation.
Some well-known dishes include a full English breakfast, fish and chips, curries, shepherds pie, toad in the hole, mushy peas, Yorkshire pudding, trifle, bangers and mash, bubble and squeak, and Lancashire hot pot.
How long do I need to visit England?
You can accomplish a lot in England in any amount of time. However, try to get at least three days if possible. Pick a few key sights to see and leave some time for exploring at your leisure. If you want to explore the whole country with some depth, allow around two weeks.
How can I avoid looking like a tourist in England?
While there is nothing wrong with being a tourist, sometimes you just want to blend in. There are a few ways to avoid looking like a tourist in England.
Avoid touristy areas, such as museums and attractions, during the day. Instead, try visiting at night or during off hours. You should also use general public transit instead of tourist-focused buses.
So, What Are the Best Places to Visit in England?
England may be a small country, but it has plenty to offer. Whether you soak in some English culture at a London pub or revel in the beauty of the countryside, you will leave this country wanting to return. So, check out some of the places on this list and have a lovely visit!