best cities to visit in england besides london

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8 stunning places to visit in England besides London

England's diversity is what makes it such a great country, so here are some fantastic places to visit in England outside of London.

Lauren Worldpackers Community

Jul 30, 2023

What's the one thing you think about when you hear the words " United Kingdom "? You probably think of London, right? Well, I'm here to show you that there's much more to the U.K., more specifically England, than you may think.

England's diversity is what makes it such a great place to visit, from quaint villages to big bustling cities, there are so many  places to visit in England .

Not to mention, every place has a different accent, so forget the umbrella term 'British accent' because that doesn't exist. Head to the likes of Cambridge to hear a proper posh accent, or go all the way to Devon to surround yourself with the farmer types.

Places to visit in England

Don't believe all the stereotypes, England is not all just fields and sheep (though you will see a lot of that), and not everyone walks and talks all fancy, it's actually quite the opposite. Nonetheless, it's a fantastic place to visit.

All in all, England is full of things to see and do, so get out your travel bucket list, because here's some of the best places to visit in England that aren't just London. 

1. What to do in Liverpool

If you're looking for a city break and like to have a good time then Liverpool is the one for you. With its friendly faces, great nightlife and rich culture, you'll never be bored.

People from Liverpool, better known as Liverpudlians, are the best kind of people - great banter, always there to help and know how to have a good time.

Sing along to some of the classics as you visit the very popular Beatles Story museum . Or if music isn't your thing, there are plenty of other museums to go to such as the Merseyside Maritime or Museum of Liverpool. 

If you're a fan of the water you can take a stroll along the Royal Albert Dock or even better, go on a boat tour. 

As you wander around the city you may notice some strange statues, they're called Lambananas (a hybrid banana lamb - strange, but very cool) and they are everywhere. If that isn't enough to make you want to go, I don't know what is. 

As you are in Liverpool, you can cross the border and explore the best things to do in Wales .

2. Things to do in Cornwall 

Cornwall is well known for its sandy beaches and enticing waters, it's no wonder so many people go there for water sports such as surfing.

Being coastal, it is a windy and colder climate but perfect for getting out during the day, and getting cosy during the evenings.

Visit the stunning visuals of the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, see a show at the Minack Theatre, or take a walk along the Padstow Harbour.

One of the best places you can visit is Trebah Gardens - it has luscious greenery, a beach, shops and sometimes performances too, making it a definite for the to-do list.

With beautiful sights, welcoming people, and plenty to do - Cornwall is the perfect place for a relaxing getaway.

3. What to do in Cambridge, England

Spectacular colleges, cute cafes, and the rival of Oxford - that's right, it's Cambridge. It's a beautiful old-style city with cobblestones, thatched roofs, and lots of smart cookies. 

The city is actually a lot smaller than some may think, but there is still plenty to do.

Famously known for its punting - Cambridge tends to be on the fancier side. You can book a punting tour and get to know the city's history, or you can book to punt yourself - perhaps more fun, probably less graceful.

Discovering the city by walking around is enough to keep you entertained - its colleges are so detailed and mesmerizing to look at, and there are SO many of them! They're so posh that you can't even go into some of the grounds unless you study there. 

But aside from that, it also has many great cafes for those foodies out there. From small boutique places to the market in the square, you won't have any difficulty finding a bite to eat. It's full of little wonders, like the Corpus clock outside of the Taylor Library - capturing the passing of time in a uniquely hypnotic, yet disturbing way.

Cambridge is one of those places that despite small, will certainly leave a lasting impression.

4. Brighton beach, England

Brighton will leave with the best kind of memories. It's famously known for its fun-filled pier but that isn't all it has to offer.

Here are some of the best things to do in Brighton : 

• British Airways i360 - panoramic views, coastal breeze, and great food. One of the best ways to view the city!
• The Lanes - if you're a lover of unique shops and cafes, then this is like heaven for you.
• Brighton Beach - with fun colourful shops and cafes and great views, you'll get that proper holiday feeling. 
• Undercliff Walk - great for a stroll or bike ride, morning or evening. 

Whether you're more of an easy-going person or like to live life on the wilder side - Brighton has something for everyone.

5. What to do in Newcastle

The place to party. If you've ever heard of Geordie Shore then you're probably no stranger to knowing how good a night out in the city can be. 

But Newcastle isn't all parties and late nights, it offers plenty more wonderful sights to see and things to do such as:

• Victoria Tunnel - a 19th-century coal waggonway and WW2 air-raid shelter. You have to book tickets for the tour, but it's very worth it!
• The Quayside - amazing views, markets, and places to eat and drink.
• Jesmond Dene - an absolute gem full of historic and natural features, lovely greenery, and wonderful wildlife. A nice break away from the city. 
• The Discovery Museum - firstly, it's free! Secondly, there's something for everyone, making it the perfect place to visit, no matter who you're with.
• The Biscuit Factory - Sadly, not an actual biscuit factory, but a stunning commercial art, craft, and design gallery! 

There is even more than that, believe it or not, but you'll have to go discover the city for yourself to see what else they have to do!

6. What to see in the Lake District, England

If you're looking for peace - this is it. Small, windy roads leading to the most stunning views that take your breath away, and not just because of the hill climb. 

Recharging, refreshing and rural, the Lake District is great for those who want to get out of the city and into the hills. 

With a mass of hills to climb, waterfalls to swim in and nature to see, its no wonder it has become such a popular place. 

Great for camping, but if that doesn't take your fancy, then a local hotel or B&B will do the trick. Despite it's luscious land, it isn't too far away from the centre of Whitehaven - if you do need any shops, or more choice of restaurants.

7. Yorkshire and surroundings

With one of the best accents going and the kindest people, you have to visit the wonders of Yorkshire . It's made up of a few different places such as York itself, Leeds , Sheffield, and Scarborough but here is just a couple.

Starting with York:

• Walk along the City Walls - they are Roman fortifications that once were there to protect the city! Now it's a beautiful walk to do, it can take a few hours though so be prepared.
• Taste the chocolatey wonders by taking a tour at York's Chocolate Story (yum!)
• Skip down the Shambles - potentially one of York's most famous streets filled with cute shops, old pubs and Harry Potter themed stores !
• Smell the fresh delights at the Breezy Knees Garden - award winning garden with over 20 acres of gorgeous colourful plants!
• Take a cruise along the river Ouse - for the perfect evening sunset excursion

Moving onto Leeds:

Royal Armouries Museum - check out the national collection of armour (featuring five themed galleries)

Roundhay Park - perfect for a day stroll and a coffee at the lakeside café

Harewood House - if you're into art, culture and heritage then this is the place for you. It even looks a little like something from Alice in Wonderland!

Kirkgate Market - oozing with character, this market is a great place to pick up some good quality grub, clothing, or just to have a browse.

Yorkshire is the ideal place for those looking for somewhere a little more laid-back but still fun and full of character.

8. Best things to do in Devon, England

Largely rural and utterly breath-taking, Devon is the ultimate relaxation spot. Good food, good people, and good walks - need I say more?

Here's a few wonders of Devon:

• Babbacombe Model Village - Torquay's most popular visitor attraction, showcasing a miniature version of British life and culture over the last five decades. How cool!
• Plymouth Gin Distillery - for all my gin lovers out there who want to know more about how gin is made, and enjoy a drink whilst doing so.
• Tunnels Beaches - a different way to experience a walk on the beach!

That is only a few options, but there is more than enough to do. I would truly recommend visiting if you're looking for something on the quieter side or just need to slow down a bit. 

and lastly...

Bonus destination: London on a budget

Technically cheating, but let's be honest, if you're travelling to the U.K. for the first time, you probably will go to London .

After all, it is a fantastic city and being so big, there is plenty to do. Like, a lot. To narrow it down a bit, I'm going to tell you about some of my favourite places.

I'm going to start with an unexpected one - the Hampstead Heath Bathing Ponds. For just a few pounds you can have 40 minutes of pond filled fun. The best part, before you take a dip, you can wander around the grounds and see one of the best views of the city from upon the hill. 

My absolute favourite place in London has to be Shoreditch - it is hippy central. From edgy bakeries to funky bars and plenty of vintage shops - it has to be the coolest place in London. The people that are in Shoreditch just ooze hipster, and to be honest, I love it. 

However, one of Shoreditch's best gems is a 24/7 Jewish bakery situated on Brick Lane. London is known for its overpriced goods but this place goes against everything you've been told about the city - you can find there half a dozen bagels and some cakes for less than £5. 

Here you can see more tips to travel around London on a budget .

The U.K. is full of absolute wonders , from cold coasts to slightly warmer cities. Though many think it's all the same, I can guarantee it's not. 

A great way to travel around England and the U.K ., in general, is by train or bus (and you can get the mega bus - not the most luxurious, but will save you a ton). 

Knowing all these awesome places to visit in England , here are some tips: 

• Bring a raincoat or umbrella in case
• British people are typically very polite, so people will queue and that's just how it's done. Also, manners are a big thing.
• The food can have off-putting names (think Toad in the Hole) but just ask your waiter - it's not all as bad as it sounds. 

If you want to discover more of the U.K. then see the 10 best places to visit in Scotland  and the guide for bikepacking through the Chiltern Hills .

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Lauren Mclachlan

Worldpackers Community

Hey I’m Lauren! I’m from a small town in sunny (I wish) Scotland and took on my first solo travelling trip after graduating in 2019 My experience was way better than I could’ve imagined – meeting wonderful people, seeing amazing things, great experiences and even teaching weekly yoga! I couldn’t have done all this without Worldpackers, I’m so grateful I came across the website. I think everyone should get to experience travelling at some point in their lives – wherever and whatever it may be! My advice if you’re thinking about it is – don’t think too much! Just do, you won’t regret it. Also, if you want 10% off your Worldpackers memberships you can use the code LAUREN10

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Wooooow it's beautiful and wonderful of pictures and travel places of London city's cultural heritage different places of nature .dear we indian loves to explore new opportunities of business . Events films fashion in UK thanks once we can visit England and still welcome to India we have alot of beautiful cultural heritage and wonderful places .

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Thank you, glad you enjoyed the article! There are some great places to visit :)

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14 Cities Outside of London To Visit In The UK

There’s so much more to the UK than London. Yes, London is an amazing city and all that but the UK has so many different beautiful and exciting cities that most people miss out on thanks to buzzing bright lights of London.

I have lived all across the UK and experienced life in different parts of the country and even though I currently call London home, it seems right and quite apt to put together a list of some of the UK’s amazing cities (asides London) that you definitely need to visit.

1.) Edinburgh

This is the second most visited city outside of London already and is a city that is truly defined by its beautifully preserved historic buildings, strong and rich culture, food and people.

Edinburgh has been home to me for many years in the past and is the perfect city in that there is so much to see and do here and yet it still manages to be intimate enough (definitely more so than London) that you can actually get to know your neighbours and truly call this amazing city home.

You’ll love the city.

Visiting Edinburgh? See the best bars , best things to do and secret spots

2.) Glasgow

This might sound slightly controversial to some but Glasgow is perhaps best defined as Edinburgh’s grittier, savvier and perhaps edgier sister.

Glasgow is the biggest city in Scotland by population and is a truly vibrant city.

It arguably has better shopping and nightlife than Edinburgh although Edinburgh might boast historical architectural treasures.

Glasgow is louder, wilder and fiercer than it’s sister city while still packing in lots of sights guaranteed to keep you entertained and is definitely worth visiting when you’re in the UK.

Oh, I almost forgot, they also have a whole heap of Scottish foods and meals you have to try.

Visiting Glasgow? Here are the top places you have to explore

3.) Newcastle

Newcastle is one of those cities that always surprises people.

Everyone comes back from the city impressed when they realise it’s so much more than what MTV and tabloid magazines would like to portray it as.

The people are so down to earth and the city is actually quite charming.

The nightlife here is pretty fantastic too and seeing as it’s partway between London and Edinburgh, a trip to Edinburgh definitely requires a stopover in Newcastle. Keep your eyes peeled for the Angel of the North, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Newcastle

4.) Cardiff

The Welsh capital city is one of those cities you would expect to be quiet and a bit more laid-back but it is actually one of the busiest cities to visit (especially on a Saturday night out).

Cardiff is a good starting point for anyone who’s never experienced Welsh life and Welsh hospitality and is easily one of my favourite cities in the UK (I kid you not, I planned on moving here at one point).

It may not have as many sights to see as say London (but let’s face it, no other city has as many sights to see as London really) but what will keep you in Cardiff long after you’ve arrived is the sheer openness, fun attitude and warmth of its people!

Read more: Best things to do in Cardiff

Famed for it’s Roman Baths (hence the name) Bath is one city everyone needs to visit in the UK at least once.

The city has such an amazing history – along with some of the UK’s more exclusive postcodes outside of London.

Visitors all over the world flock to Bath each year and it’s one of the most popular cities to visit so if you’ve never considered it before, you probably should now.

Make sure to grab a freshly-baked bun at Sally Lunn’s. They’re delicious.

Read more: Best things to do in Bath

The ancient seat of academic learning (i.e. Oxford University) pretty much defines this city but that’s not a bad thing.

On the contrary, it lends itself to some amazing architecture, a ridiculously detailed and documented history and a good balance of activities to get involved with even outside of sightseeing.

Oxford is also ridiculously close to London (just over 1 hour on the train from London Paddington station) so you have no excuse for not visiting if you ever find yourself in London.

Read more: Best things to do in Oxford

7.) Cambridge

Cambridge is, without a doubt, one of the prettiest places to visit in the UK.

Like Oxford, the University defines quite a lot of the look and feel of the town but unlike Oxford, it’s spread out over a smaller space. Making it so much easier to see all the sights in Cambridge on foot or via bicycle.

Also, and maybe this is just the Cambridge man in me speaking but the buildings have so much more character than Oxford as Cambridge.

This is mainly due to the fact that the city didn’t have any local stone during the early days of the University. This meant the stones used to make the buildings were all different.

Hence, why you’ll find the different colleges and buildings all have different colours. Make sure to go into King’s College Chapel, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Cambridge

8.) Liverpool

Another city that people are constantly surprised by is Liverpool .

Again, everyone I know who’s visited has been surprised by the startling amount of sights to see in the city, the activities to get up to and the nightlife on offer.

It’s a truly vibrant city also characterised by the down-to-earth honesty that one can expect from a Northern city.

Read more: Best things to do in Liverpool

9.) Inverness

The appeal of this city is not so much the city itself (there’s that too) but instead, its proximity to amazing natural sights!

Inverness is one of those cities that’s fantastic to visit and ‘set your base’ while exploring more of the beautiful spots in the Highlands .

It is by no means as large (or as busy) as some of Scotland’s larger cities but that in itself has its charm that you’ll love.

Read more: Best things to do in Inverness

10.) Bristol

Bristol is a charming city not too far west of London and is another one of the UK’s more vibrant cities.

It’s famed for the artist Banksy (you can still see his murals on the walls of the city) and with Bath really close to Bristol, a trip to one should really go hand in hand with a trip to the city.

Read more: Best things to do in Bristol

11.) Belfast

The Northern Irish city of Belfast is the UK’s pocket full of Irish charm, wit and culture!

It’s one of the trickier cities to visit as it’s not on the UK mainland but it’s a fairly easy city to get to.

It’s definitely worth spending some time in Belfast to get to see another side of the UK you would otherwise miss on the mainland.

Read more: Best things to do in Belfast

12.) Brighton

The UK’s famed beach town. You know a place is worth visiting when even people from the UK recommend going there.

Brighton is known for being a fun place to visit and a quick respite from crazy city life in London.

It’s also quite easy to get to from London, so if you fancy sometimes by the seaside, head over to Brighton for a day or two (or maybe even more).

Make sure to grab a fish and chips on the beach, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Brighton

13.) Manchester

This is another one of my favourite cities and I’d long been plotting ways to move to Manchester .

It’s a city with a surprisingly different mix of the old and new with new buildings merging and weaving into old ones and the city is truly filled with its own unique character and sense of fun.

This probably explains why Manchester is (and has been for a while) the 3rd most visited city in the UK.

Read more: Best things to do in Manchester

York is probably best described as one of the UK’s most charming cities.

It’s not the biggest, or the loudest or even the one with the most sights outside of London but what it does have are charming old British buildings, and oodles of homely Yorkshire hospitality.

You’ll gorge on some amazing local food famed across the UK (along with other amazing food) and some of the funniest people you’ll ever meet (and I mean this in a very good way).

Make sure you head to the smaller market town of Malton that’s just outside the city. It’s a food lover’s dream.

Read more: Best things to do in York

16 Best Things To Do In York

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The Best Places To Visit In England (Besides London)

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While London might be the seat of royalty and the crown jewel of the United Kingdom, there are plenty of other places to visit that are just as worth your time.

Here are some places where you can get the best of what England has to offer while avoiding the sky-high hotel rates and throngs of tourists. Brighton, Bath, and these other delightful destinations will show you that England is much more than Big Ben and Buckingham Palace.

Alexey Fedorenko / Shutterstock

From its creamy-complexioned Royal Crescent townhouses to the famed Roman baths from which it takes its name, Bath is a blockbuster of a stop. About 100 miles west of London and easily accessible by coach or train, the entire city is designated a UNESCO World Heritage site . Bath was built to be beautiful by Georgian-era architects and planners in order to attract spa-goers from all over Europe seeking restorative thermal waters. While no longer in use, the baths are a top tourist spot, with Roman ruins and artifacts on display. The nearby Bath Abbey is absolutely stunning and worth a visit, as is the Pulteney Bridge across the River Avon. Our best advice: Grab a scone or a pastry to go, and simply wander this walkable town, enjoying its many wonders.

S-F / Shutterstock

Oxford has been England’s center of learning since the University of Oxford was founded in the 12th century. It is a city full of history and beauty, and you’ll find something amazing around every corner. On campus, look out for the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera , the Bridge of Sighs , and the Oxford Botanic Garden & Arboretum on the River Cherwell. Pack a picnic and rent a punt (a flat-bottomed boat) for a Cherwell cruise. When you’ve wrapped that up, stop into The Eagle and Child — the watering hole where J. R. R. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis once traded stories — and grab a pint to top off the quintessential Oxford day.

chrisdorney / Shutterstock

England’s other famous university town, Cambridge, is a terrific city to add to your England itinerary. Stroll campus and stop into King’s College Chapel , a 16th-century Gothic gem with stunning stained glass windows. Be sure to walk through The Backs , the gardens and parks behind Cambridge’s colleges along the River Cam. A newer addition worth a peek is the hauntingly beautiful Corpus Clock , installed on campus in 2008. Of course, you’ll want to grab a pint, too. Consider a pub stop at the Eagle , the spot where Nobel Prize winners Francis Crick and James Watson discussed their research on DNA.

SAKhanPhotography / Shutterstock

Located in North West England, Manchester has a lot of offer. The city is known for its industrial past, its lively music scene, and its rabid football (soccer) fans. Of course, rooting for Man City or Man U — the two big teams in town — is a great way to spend a few hours if you’re into sports.

Manchester is also home to a variety of free museums, including the Imperial War Museum North , which traces the UK’s involvement in conflicts from World War I through the present day; the Science and Industry Museum ; and the Manchester Art Gallery . Bibliophiles must not miss the John Rylands Library on the campus of the University of Manchester — it houses a collection of rare books and papers, and the Gothic structure is simply gorgeous.

Alastair Wallace / Shutterstock

Fans of the HBO series Gentleman Jack might consider visiting Halifax while they are in England. Located about 20 miles from Manchester, Halifax is the town where the show’s real-life heroine, Anne Lister, lived in the early 1800s. You can still see her family’s ancestral home, Shibden Hall , which is located in a public park, and even tour the inside. Admission costs £5 for adults, and the site is easily accessible via public transportation.

The wool trade and clothmaking were once top industries in Halifax; The Piece Hall was constructed in 1779 and served as a place where weavers could sell their goods. Now it plays host to an array of special events, including festivals and concerts. It also features a mix of independent resident shops, cafés, restaurants, and bars.

For the best view of the city and surrounding area, head to the Wainhouse Tower and get ready to climb. It was originally built as a chimney for a dyeworks factory, but it was never actually used for that purpose. During World War II, the 253-foot tower was used as an observation post. Today, you can take the 403 steps all the way to the top for some stunning views!

Milan Gonda / Shutterstock

Jurassic Coast

Fancy yourself an Indiana Jones type? Channel your inner archeologist and head south to the Jurassic Coast . This UNESCO World Heritage site stretches nearly 100 miles from Dorset to Devon, and thanks to its geology and constant erosion, it has become one of the best places in the world to find fossils of all sorts. It’s a gorgeous, rugged coast, dotted with rock arches and pinnacles.

Museums and visitor centers are located across the coast and provide fascinating and educational ways to break up your drive. Small towns along the Jurassic Coast, including Lyme Regis, Weymouth, and West Lulworth, offer holiday homes, cottages, and inns, all with breathtaking views.

This is a road trip most people haven’t heard of, but it is absolutely worth taking.

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The Cotswolds

If, when you think of England, you picture a charming village with stone cottages, traditional gardens, and a small river running through it all, you’ll love the Cotswolds . The region, a popular weekend getaway located west of London, emcompasses several counties and rolling, gorgeous farmland. The tiny towns there are ideal places to escape the city and enjoy the quiet.

Tourists flock to Bourton on the Water , with the idyllic River Windrush cutting through it. It is well known for its green spaces, cafés, and ancient pubs. The Slaughters (Upper and Lower) are both ancient mill towns and also lovely. Accommodations include bed and breakfasts and self-catering cottages; even glamping options abound here.

Spend a day or two — or your entire holiday — in the Cotswolds to really get away from it all.

Mr Nai / Shutterstock

The Lake District

Tucked away in the far northwestern corner of England is one of the country’s most scenic and rugged regions. The Lake District refers to both the national park and the UNESCO World Heritage site , where you’ll find England’s tallest peak, the often-hiked Scafell Pike (3,209 feet), and the country’s deepest lake, Wastwater (243 feet). The Lake District National Park consists of more than a dozen lakes and is the perfect place to hike, kayak, and bike. There are plenty of accommodations available inside the park.

Coniston is one of the more popular villages within the district and is a great place to set up camp during your trip. The town was built around Coniston Hall, a 16th-century farmhouse, and today, you can grab a cocktail at the Black Bull Inn , a 400-year-old coaching inn.

The entire area is steeped in history and offers unmatched natural beauty: It’s a win-win!

David Ionut / Shutterstock

This walled city in North East England has ancient roots. The Romans who founded it called it Eboracum; Saxons and Vikings eventually passed through, and all left their distinct imprints behind. The city’s medieval streets and buildings are well preserved and marvelous. First constructed in the 7th century, the York Minster is one of the globe’s most magnificent cathedrals. The current edifice was completed in 1472, and it contains one of the largest collections of medieval stained glass in the world, including a breathtaking rose window. Built by William the Conqueror, Clifford’s Tower provides a spectacular view of the city. And the National Railway Museum gives visitors a chance to see how the royal family once traveled the rails.

If you’ll be staying a few days, consider a York Pass , which allows entrance into nearly 50 of the city’s top sights for a fixed price (starting at £60 for adults).

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For a beachy English excursion, head to the southern coastal city of Brighton . This delightful seaside spot has been a favorite of royals; stop by the Royal Pavilion to get your history in and see why King George IV loved this spot so much. Then head to the Brighton Palace Pier for a bit of boardwalk fun before rolling up your cuffs and heading to the pebbly beaches that surround the city. Be sure to keep your sandals on, and check the temperature before you go. The Channel waters might be too chilly to swim in, but Brighton is the perfect place for an oceanfront stroll.

Planning a trip to London, but want to see what else England has to offer? Take one of these eight amazing day trips from the capital city , and be sure to check out our tips for renting a car in England .

Communication done well has always been Erika’s career focus. She’s served as a publicist and PR expert for several non-profit organizations based in St. Louis. Prior to that, she was an Emmy Award–winning television newscast producer.

When she’s not training for her next race or packing for another trip, you’ll find Erika hanging out with her husband, son, and personal zoo, which includes a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, two cats, and a grumpy pygmy hedgehog.

10 Amazing Places to Visit in England Outside of London

England has a fascinating culture and history, a varied landscape and a lot of unique places both natural and manmade. While London is one of my favourite places in the world there are places to visit in England outside of London.

There are so many reasons why you should get outside of London, for example:

• Historical interest, in particular, it is all around and easy to see and with a little imagination also experience. 
• Nature is an important part of English heritage and some of these get out of the cities to experience the natural phenomenon of the countryside.

If you’re searching for ideas of where you can go in England other than London? Here are 10 incredible ideas for new adventures and places to visit in England.

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Beatles Trail

Most people will know that the iconic pop group of the ‘60’s The Beatles come from Liverpool and unsurprisingly there is a Beatles Trail:

It is possible to buy a map and plan your own trail around the city, but there are also several guided tours to take you around the Beatles home city and check out the Beatles hotspots.

Start with the museum in the Albert Dock all about the Beatles called The Beatles Story, the museum is the authority on all things Beatles and even has replicas of some of the famous places, such as The Cavern and Matthew Street.  You are whisked back to the 1960’s for a fact filled Beatles experience.

Visit Penny Lane and Strawberry Field, Paul McCartney’s childhood home, which is now also a museum and John Lennon’s childhood home.  See the murals drawn by Cynthia Lennon and the fabulous Beatles statue.

The Lake District National Park

England’s first national park, The Lake District in Cumbria is unique with its rolling hills, rugged areas and sweeping lakes all interspersed with cute villages, Scafell Pike, England’s tallest mountain is also in the Lake District.  

Whilst Scafell Pike is a must do for serious hill walkers, there are several routes up the mountain to suit different people and stunning far reaching views from the top. 

It is not just the hill walkers who gain from visiting the Lake District though, there is such a lot that is special about the area.  There are lots of other easier trails suitable for the less experienced or pleasure walkers, gentle rambles and family friendly explorations and even guided walks. 

It is also not only walking that the Lake District offers either, there are cycling friendly trails, boat hire and of course the chance to just sit and look out over a lake and watch the world go by. 

Lake Windermere is the largest and probably the best known of the lakes and it is possible to take boats from village to village around the lake. 

Watch the various water vessels or hire a boat, kayak or paddle board and get out on the water that way. 

There is a visitor centre near Windermere which includes children’s play area and treetop nets, fully enclosed nets like trampolines nine metres off the ground. 

One of the smaller lakes Coniston is a great place to stay with plenty of little shops, pubs and B&B’s nearby. 

Visit the pretty village of Hawkshead with its cobbled lanes, Beatrix Potter gallery and Wordsworth connection, there are pubs and cafes to enjoy as well.

An example of a different attraction is the Haverthwaite Steam Railway which is a great way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Leven valley.

Covering nine hundred square miles there are plenty of choices of where to go and things to find to explore.

Cotswolds Towns and Villages

England has many pretty villages and towns; one of the best places to see several in one day or over a few days is to visit the Cotswolds . 

An area of outstanding natural beauty AONB, the natural beauty is enhanced by the honey-coloured natural stone that many of the houses are built from. 

The Cotswolds is an area which is in parts of five counties in south-west England; Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and North East Somerset including the famous town of Bath.

Many of the listed places will offer B&B and it is possible for the independent traveller to find a hidden gem off the beaten track.  Here though to start with are two stunningly beautiful places to visit:

Castle Combe Wiltshire

The houses are built from the lovely honey hued Cotswold stone topped with rustic ancient tiles and the locals ensure it is kept pretty with lovely hanging baskets and well kept gardens. 

Castle Combe was featured in the film War Horse and if you decide to stay there, be sure to leave the car and go for a stroll to best appreciate the beauty of the little town.

Bourton-on-the-Water Gloucestershire

Picture postcard perfect and the quintessential Cotswold village, there is no wonder it is called the Venice of the Cotswolds. 

The main street has the river Windrush running alongside it, crossed at regular intervals by low Cotswold stone bridges, the backdrop if the tickle of water lends a romantic feel to this beautiful place. 

There is plenty to do in Bourton-on-the-Water, there is a world famous motor museum, a model village that beautifully captures the village in an easy to explore miniature version, a model railway, a nature reserve, a brewery and and  of course some lovely little shops, cafes and pubs.

Other places recommended to visit are Burford, Fairford or Woodstock and if grand houses interest you then visit Blenheim Palace the birth place of Sir Winston Churchill which is in Woodstock. 

Rye in East Sussex, lying serenely between rolling hills and the English Channel just along the coast from Hastings, it is a must visit location teeming with history through the ages and giving a fascinating glimpse into medieval England together with the nearby Harbour, Rye offers a unique experience. 

With its cobbled lanes and crooked half timbered houses, Rye retains much of its medieval character and it is easy to imagine being back in history, was that a smuggler skulking in a doorway or just a shadow? Is that secret passage safe…? 

Mermaid Street is a good place to start with its timber framed houses, many with unusual names giving a taste of the history of the place, these days the town is peaceful and gentle, picturesque and a great place for taking photos. 

The town has far reaching views over the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, but whilst there take a trip down to the Harbour to see the little boats and enjoy a bracing walk along the coast to Camber Sands, a large expanse of sand dunes, gently lapped by the English Channel most of the time, but occasionally stormily moody. 

The great thing is you can enjoy a walk along and get a bus back to Rye. 

Stay at the Hope Anchor Hotel for far reaching views or the eleventh century Mermaid Inn, which is also a great place to stop for a drink and it is definitely a must to go in and explore the inside of this ancient Inn. 

Rye has long been a draw for literary people and a visit to Lamb House where the American author Henry James wrote three of his novels and the house has also been used a few times as a film location. Rye has a railway station, making it ideal for non-driving visitors and has some wonderful little independent shops.

Rye and Rye harbour offer a unique and diverse experience, there are the ancient cobbles and pretty houses of medieval Rye and there is also architecture and preserved history throughout the ages to the present day and it is very easy to spend a lot of time walking along the ancient cobbles before exploring the harbour and other architecture.

The West Country Coast of England has many picturesque towns and villages and pretty harbours nestled into the hillside, none though catch the imagination quite like Clovelly on the North Devon Coast.

Nestled in steep tree lined cliffs, Stunningly pretty Clovelly’s cobbled, steep, main street barely more than a path in places is flanked by pretty mostly terraced cottages, some with little shops and galleries and of course cafes. 

The walk down is steep and tricky, unfortunately, this is not for the faint hearted or less able, but for anyone who can this is a must visit destination, the memory will stay with you for a lifetime. 

Once at the bottom, the last few steps open up to a viewing point over the pretty little harbour and right at the bottom of the town is the Red Lion Hotel.  Clovelly’s charm is increased by the donkeys being pretty much the only mode of transport to carry things up the hill, including tired children. 

The path can be so treacherous that delivery men and locals use sledges to drag things up and down. 

Lindisfarne – Holy Island

St Aiden arrived at Lindesfarne in 635 AD and decided to open a monastery, thus as legend has it changing the island forever. 

Lindisfarne is now often known as Holy Island and is an island attached to the mainland off of the Northumbria coast by a causeway, adding to the mysticism of the place. 

The island is cut off from the mainland twice a day and any visit needs to be preceded by checking the tide times when the causeway will be closed. 

Living on the island is a small community of less than two hundred people and many of these are involved with the tourism of the island.

Lindisfarne Castle built in the 1500’s is what dominates the island from a mainland viewpoint and is now in the care of the National Trust. 

The Priory Ruins where there is also a museum is the other main attraction once on the island. 

Still a location for Pilgrims, who walk an alternative route to the island than the causeway, you don’t need to be religious or a pilgrim though to appreciate and enjoy the unique island. There is also lots of wildlife and history to add interest. 

Lindesfarne has a new car park where all but disabled visitors must leave their cars, or for those without a car who don’t wish to walk, it is possible to access the island from the mainland via a boat trip.

Birmingham Back to Backs

Within easy reach of the city centre are the Birmingham Back to Backs, are a step back in time.  The little houses offer an interesting insight into the lives of the Birmingham working classes between the 1840’s and 1970’s. 

These historically important and fascinating houses are just a few minutes’ walk from the Bullring and the picturesque area of the canal. 

There is a lovely 1930’s sweetshop and interesting displays, a souvenir shop and various craft workshops. It is even possible to stay in a Back to Back Cottage managed by the National Trust, in fact they have two: 52 Inge Street in a Victorian style and 1930’s style 54 Inge Street. 

Jurassic Coast

England’s Jurassic coast is a World Heritage Site (UNESCO) and of tremendous historical interest and importance due to the access it gives scientists to the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. 

There is literally millions of years worth of history available to see there.  If this is of little interest to you, don’t worry, there is more to the area than the fantastic and unique geology, although it is still this unique geology that creates the beauty. 

The Jurassic coastline is a ninety five mile stretch of Dorset and Devon coastline and has created a stunning and varied landscape. Known for fossils, this is the place to do some serious fossil hunting or the casual searcher can also turn up some interesting fossils on a stroll combing the beaches.

Staggeringly beautiful cliff tops, give way to sweeping slopes and hidden valleys, the landscape inland is no less outstanding and plays home to some lovely pretty Dorset and Devon villages that are well worth exploring.

Although, probably the best way to enjoy the coastline is to walk all or part of the Jurassic Coast South West Coast Path, part of a much longer footpath that incorporates these ninety five miles. 

There are plenty of places to join and for a shorter taste of the walk and to enjoy probably the most famous landmark Durdle Door, a simply magnificent natural limestone arch that juts out to sea next to a sheltered beach cove.  Durdle Door was created by the power of waves eroding the rock causing a hole through the rock that looks like a doorway.

There is a handy car park near Durdle Door and access is by going through camp site to access the South Coast Path and the phenomenon is visible from the cliff top, there is an handy path that goes down to the sheltered shingle beach below, where it is possible to get much closer to Durdle Door and also to see some of the layers in the rock of the cliff. 

Nearby is Lulworth Cove, a beautiful curved almost fully enclosed large natural cove, offering beauty, tranquillity and a sheltered place for sea bathing.  

It is possible to walk along the cliff tops to the Cove and that is a fantastic way to view its breathtaking beauty. 

If going by car, follow signs for West Lulworth, the village at Lulworth Cove that has a pub, toilets and take-a-way.

Harry Potter Oxford Tour

Whilst it is possible to tour the Warner Brothers Studios in London to see the sets where a lot of the films were made, another interesting aspect of the films is that a lot of it was also filmed at Oxford or inspired by Oxford. 

Fortunately, it is possible to visit this historical learning city and see where many of the scenes were filmed and the sites that inspired the film makers to bring Hogwarts to life.

Go to Oxford and search on your own or book a tour ; either way let your imagination run away with you as you walk the corridors walked by Harry, Hermione and Ron. 

Duke Humfrey’s Library which is only accessible by a private tour is where the invisibility cloak library scene was filmed and Divinity School’s Bodleian Library was used as Hogwarts Infirmary, both in The Philosopher’s Stone .

The wonderful gothic Christ Church College was used a lot and can be spotted in a lot of scenes, the staircase in the scene where Professor McGonagall met Harry, Hermione and Ron and the scene where Hermione shows Harry the Quidditch trophy was filmed here. 

The New College Cloisters feature in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire when Harry saw Malfoy sitting on a giant oak tree and Mad Eye Moody turned him into a ferret.  The real tree used in the film is right there in the cloisters.

A lot of the impressive architecture of Oxford was used to create the sets at the studios drawing inspiration and direct copies from Oxford an example being the Tudor Great Dining Hall of Christ Church College inspired the set of Hogwarts Great Dining Hall and it is easy to see the similarities.

An absolute must for Harry Potter fans.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard offers a varied and interesting day out and a peak in to England’s maritime history. The attractions include:

Henry VIII’s flagship the Mary Rose, the genuine remains are in Portsmouth an almost perfect half, giving an interesting insight of a 500 year old English ship.  As well as the actual Mary Rose the museum also has a lot of Tudor artefacts on show.

Lord Nelson’s famous HMS Victory is also at Portsmouth and undergoing restoration, the tours of Nelson’s ship are highly informative and interesting. Another attraction is the Dockyards Apprentice, an historical recreation of 200 years of dockyard history exploring the ingenuity behind traditional boatbuilding techniques and imagined through the eyes of the dock workers.

For younger visitors there is also a Horrible Histories section.

The Dockyard is right next to the Royal Navy base and it is possible to see some of the modern fleet. This is just a snapshot of what is available at the Dockyard and a visit is a fascinating day.

The above ten ideas are a snapshot of some of the must visit places in England, some are a little off the usual tourist routes and less busy, being wonderful to do at any time.  The following are best done out of the main summer season to gain the best possible experience:

The Cotswolds can get very busy in the summer and the lovely towns and villages can be enjoyed at any time.  Probably best appreciated when less busy, but Castle Combe is at its best when the hanging baskets are in bloom when it is absolutely stunning. 

Clovelly really is a must visit location, go in the spring, avoiding school holidays if you can when it is less busy, alternatively, arrive early and you’ll be climbing up when the bulk of visitors are going down.

The Jurassic Coastline is stunning at any time, if you are not bothered about sea bathing or paddling the beautiful coastline can be appreciated at any time and is quieter in the winter and autumn months, when a crackling log fire at the pub at Lulworth Cove is incredibly welcoming after a walk along the South West Coat Path from Durdle Door.

The Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is always very busy at bank holidays and when special exhibitions are on.  Best visited in the spring or summer or as a winter break outing.

Whilst the other places are also busy, The Lake District’s main tourist traps can be very busy, but avoid them and there are miles and miles of countryside to explore. 

Birmingham is always a busy place, but the Back to Backs give you an hour or so to catch your breath and step back in time. 

The holiday lets there are an ideal base to explore the area or when visiting the theatre. 

Liverpool is also always busy, but go on a Beatles tour and it is as though time does not matter as you walk where the Fab Four walked and see where they played and grew up.

Kat Hi, I'm Kat, an Australian that moved to London in 2013 to start a  new adventure.  What a roller-coaster that was! I love helping others move to the UK  and people  explore the world ! I’d be honoured if you’d say, “Thanks!” with a £3 coffee on Ko-fi.

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10 Best Places To Visit In England (Besides London)

England may be part of the United Kingdom, but it still deserves an article in my series “10 Best Places To Visit In …” . After all, this set of posts about the best European cities and villages has already covered countries like France , Italy , and  Spain .

So, I leave you the ten best places in England, that are completely different from each other. In England, there are destinations for all tastes, from those who prefer large cosmopolitan centers to those who can’t dismiss landscapes by the sea. Or maybe you prefer medieval cities? Let’s find out!

So, do you want to know more about the 10 Best Places To Visit In England (Besides London)? Keep reading!

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10. Manchester

Best places to visit in england.

The capital of England (and the United Kingdom) is naturally at the top of this list of the best places to visit in England. After all, London is one of the most important cities in Europe, as well as one of the most popular among tourists and travelers.

From Buckingham Palace to St. Paul’s Cathedral, passing through the British Museum and Tower Bridge, there are plenty of places to visit in London. For example, close to the royal palace, you’ll find Hyde Park and St. James’ Park, as well as other iconic monuments in England: Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the London Eye. Next to Tower Bridge is the Tower of London, a former castle that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988.

However, my favorite activity to do in London is to watch musicals in the West End. This entertainment district is unique in England and can only be compared in the world with Broadway in New York. Among the countless theaters and venues of this artistic center, the most important ones are the Covent Garden and the Royal Opera House.

I’ve already had the opportunity to watch “The Phantom of the Opera”  and “Les Misérables” , on stage at Her Majesty’s Theatre and Queen’s Theatre, respectively. Not only are they both fantastic, but I hope to be able to return to England’s capital to see other musicals!

Bath is, as the name implies, a city dedicated to “bathing” and one of the most popular destinations in England. Located in the county of Somerset (in southwest England), it’s mainly known for its Roman Baths.

Legend has it that the Romans believed the water flowing here had healing properties, so they built a spa on the site. Since then, many people have come to Bath in search of small miracles, although the resort was first intended for the wealthy in England.

The city became particularly popular during the Georgian era (1714-1830), giving rise to numerous buildings of the so-called “Georgian architecture”. Among them, The Circus (1754-1768) and Royal Crescent (1767 and 1774) complexes stand out. Consisting of semi-detached houses, they are arranged in a ring and a half-moon, respectively.

Finally, it’s important to note that the city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, due to its historical and architectural importance. The picturesque Pulteney Bridge, the Abbey in Gothic style, and the various parks, museums, and galleries are other places that you can include in your visit to Bath!

Bristol is located about half an hour from Bath, so it’s recommended to visit these two places on the same trip through England. A port center since its foundation, Bristol was one of the most important English cities for several centuries.

Despite that, with the Industrial Revolution, places like Manchester, Liverpool, and Birmingham benefited from rapid growth, replacing Bristol‘s relevance on the map of England. Still, there are several tourist spots you can visit on a day trip.

Firstly, the Clifton Suspension Bridge (in Victorian style) is the symbol of the city. In the same way, the iconic Bristol Port is also a must-see. It’s often called Floating Harbor because the water level remains constant and is not affected by river currents.

In this same port, you find the SS Great Britain, a transatlantic ship that when it was opened in 1843, was the largest in the world! In the historic center, you can explore the Cathedral, the St Mary Redcliffe Church, the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, and the Cabot Tower.

4. Cambridge

The city of Cambridge has become one of the most eclectic places in England, thanks to its University, founded in 1209. It’s the second oldest university in England (and in the United Kingdom), right after Oxford. Among the most important figures who studied at Cambridge are physicists Isaac Newton and Stephen Hawking, naturalist Charles Darwin and philosopher and mathematician Bertrand Russell.

There has been a rivalry between these two English universities since the Middle Ages, but Cambridge can be proud to have originated more Nobel Prize winners, among scientists, writers, and politicians. In addition, its colleges are truly impressive monuments.

Of the 31 current colleges, the best known is certainly King’s College, whose chapel is one of the greatest examples of Gothic architecture in England. But there are others with a worldwide reputation in academic terms, such as Trinity College, Trinity Hall, Jesus College, Clare College, and Christ’s College.

In the historic center, there are several museums, parks, and squares that you can visit, even though the University is the highlight of the city. Due to its proximity to London (about 80 km), many tourists choose to visit Cambridge on a day trip from the capital of England.

Halfway through this list of best places to visit in England, I decided to include York, as it’s a unique walled city in the country. Located in northern England, it is, for example, a perfect place to stop on a road trip between London and Edinburgh (in Scotland)!

The York Cathedral – better known as York Minster – is the largest Gothic cathedral not only in England but also in northern Europe! Besides, it has the best views over the city. As for the Walls and York Castle (which once served as a prison), they are ideal places to understand the city’s history.

York also gives great importance to art and culture, with numerous museums and galleries scattered throughout the city. This is the case of the National Railway Museum, JORKIV Viking Center, Yorkshire Museum, and York Art Gallery, just to exemplify.

If you’re looking for an authentic English experience, then head to The Shambles, one of the best-preserved medieval streets in the world! With historic houses converted into shops, coffee shops, and pubs, The Shambles is part of a labyrinthic network of narrow streets in York.

6. Liverpool

Liverpool is a city in the northwest of England and one of the best-known in the country. Its fame reached worldwide proportions in the second half of the 20th century, due to the iconic pop-rock band that was formed here: The Beatles.

But centuries before the Beatles‘ phenomenon, the city of Liverpool was already becoming an important port center in England. In fact, with the discovery of America, the Port of Liverpool started to serve as a starting point or stop for very important transatlantic ships, such as the RMS Titanic.

Currently, Liverpool is one of the best places to visit in England because of its entertainment tourism. The Albert Dock is a large leisure complex set in the old Victorian docks, but there is also Saint George’s Hall for concerts and events.

As far as museums are concerned, the most popular ones are The Beatles Story, the Museum of Liverpool, and the Tate Liverpool, a modern art gallery. If you’re a fan of this pop-rock band from England, you should visit the Cavern Club, the first pub where the Fab Four performed.

7. Brighton

Brighton is, in fact, the most important part of the city of Brighton and Hove, which was created from several cities and villages in 2000. It’s included in this list of “10 Best Places To Visit In England” as an important tourist center by the sea.

Since it lives a lot on beach tourism, it’s advisable to visit Brighton during the hottest season – even with the crowds coming from all over England and abroad. After all, its pebble beach is one of the most popular in southern England, welcoming millions of Londoners in the summer.

The Brighton Pier (or Brighton Palace Pier since 2016) is a landmark in England and a postcard of the city, with numerous options for entertainment and leisure. It’s over 500 meters long and includes arcade games, roller coasters, merry-go-rounds, and other fairground attractions.

The place is also featured in many films and television series, such as Tim Burton‘s “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”. Along the beach, there are also several bars, restaurants, Sea Life, and the Brighton Wheel, which operated between 2011 and 2016.

The small town of Durham is the most northerly place on this list of best places to visit in England, so it deserves an independent visit day. And if you’re a fan of the Harry Potter series, then you’re in the right place! That’s because the Durham Cathedral was used as a set for not one, not two, but three Harry Potter movies.

This iconic Romanesque monument, along with the Durham Castle, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. Between the two buildings, there is the so-called Palace Green, a large lawn that was added to the English UNESCO list in 2008.

Also worth visiting are the Crook Hall gardens, although they’re very popular among tourists. This medieval hall is one of about 600 protected buildings in Durham and one of the main spaces chosen for wedding receptions and other events and ceremonies.

Take the opportunity to stroll through the historic streets and squares of Durham, as this is one of the most picturesque cities in England. On either side of the Wear River, there are traditional shops and pubs, as well as the Durham Museum and Heritage Centre.

9. Nottingham

Nottingham is mostly known for being the birthplace of Robin Hood. This outlaw, who lived during the 12th century, ended up becoming a mythical hero of England. This is because, according to legend, Robin stole from the rich to give to the poor.

If you visit Nottingham in this context, then you should visit Sherwood Forest, less than 40km away. This is where the so-called “Prince of the Poor” and his gang lived in hiding.

As for the city itself, Nottingham is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in England. In summary, Nottingham Castle is the main attraction of this city in the center of the country. Also, you can’t miss one of the city’s most famous neighborhoods: The Lace Market.

In the past, this area was the center of the lace industry of the British Empire – hence the name. Today, the Victorian brick warehouses survive, converted into fashion stores, restaurants and pubs. Take the opportunity to visit the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Contemporary (art gallery), and the City of Caves, in the same neighborhood.

Despite being the last on my list of “10 Best Places To Visit In England”, Manchester is known worldwide. Located in the northwest of England, about an hour from Liverpool, this city is an important industrial and economic center.

Manchester is also very popular due to football, as it’s home to two of England’s high-competition teams: Manchester United and Manchester City. Both the Old Trafford Stadium and the National Football Museum are among the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Other than that, Manchester stands out from the other destinations in England for the importance given to art and culture, with numerous museums and art galleries. Just to illustrate, you can choose between the Manchester Art Gallery, The Lowry (cultural center), or The Whitworth (art gallery).

And you also have other museums like the Museum of Science and Industry, the Manchester Museum, and the Imperial War Museum, more focused on the city’s history and legacy. Finally, you’ll find the Manchester Cathedral on the banks of the Irwell River.

Map of the Best Places to Visit in England

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10 Underrated Cities Besides London To Visit In England

Discover the breathtaking charm and unmatched beauty of the 10 most underrated cities to visit in England besides London (and what to do there).

• Canterbury: A medieval city with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cobblestone streets, and charming country life. Must-sees include Canterbury Cathedral and St. Martin's Church.
• Leicester: A vibrant city with cultural attractions, such as The National Space Center, Jewry Wall Museum, and Leicester Cathedral. Don't miss the King Richard III Visitors Center.
• Newbury: A getaway to the English countryside with markets, delicious food, and Highclere Castle. Explore the vibrant nightlife and catch a show at The Watermill Theater or a race at Newbury Racecourse.

England is a spectacular treasure box that's filled with incredible landmarks, iconic food and drinks, and the lush countryside that everyone dreams of renting a little cottage on. The country and its culture are constantly put on display with movies, TV shows, and all across the media, leading many to believe that London is the be-all and end-all of the United Kingdom. While London is certainly a great place to visit, there are so many extraordinary destinations throughout England for visitors to explore that will give them a more intimate window into Britain's history and way of life.

From the southern coast of the English Channel to the castles of Northumberland are breathtaking and bustling cities that often get overlooked. If travelers are planning an excursion around England soon, these 10 beautiful, most underrated cities should definitely be added to the bucket list.

10 Best Places To Visit In England This Fall (That Aren't London)

10 canterbury.

Just an hour's train ride away and the perfect day trip from London near the coast is the city of Canterbury. This medieval city is brimming with historic sites, picturesque cafés and cobblestone streets, and bustling nightlife. It's the perfect blend of city and charming country life.

Canterbury is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites : Canterbury Cathedral, St. Martin's Church, and St. Augustine's Abbey, which are absolute must-sees. Travelers can spend the day walking around the city, learning about its incredible Roman history, gazing at the half-timbered style building along the Stour River, and checking out the local restaurants and breweries.

• Best time of year to visit: Autumn
• Things to do: Canterbury Cathedral , Stour River Cruise, St. Martin's Church- the oldest church in England, food tour

9 Leicester

Leicester is a vibrant and diverse city that, sadly, doesn't get enough attention from tourists. It's actually one of the oldest cities in England and has so much history tied to it. The city proudly boasts of its many cultural attractions and museums , such as The National Space Center, Jewry Wall Museum, and Leicester Cathedral.

History buffs can visit the King Richard III Visitors Center to learn about King Richard III's life and death and the fascinating discovery of his remains underneath a parking lot in Leicester in 2012.

While exploring Leicester, travelers will have a wide variety of unique restaurants and local street food vendors to choose from to make their stay even more memorable!

• Best time of year to visit: May-September
• Things to do: Leicester Cathedral, King Richard III Visitors Center, The Curve Theater, Food Park, Abbey Park

Downton Abbey fans will get a thrill from this underrated location in Berkshire, England. Newbury is the ideal getaway into the gorgeous hillsides of England. There are tons of cozy markets to enjoy, delicious food to eat, and leisurely activities to participate in to get the full effect of English countryside living.

Of course, the best and most popular attraction to visit in Newbury is Highclere Castle, the real Downton Abbey filming location . Visitors can get a full guided tour of the castle and learn about its history and the real Earl and Countess who live there today.

After a day trip to Highclere Castle, visitors can check out the vibrant nightlife of Newbury and catch a show at The Watermill Theater or an exciting race at the Newbury Racecourse.

• Best time of year to visit: May-October
• Things to do: Highclere Castle, Great West Way, Corn Exchange, Farmers Market

10 Real-Life Downton Abbey Filming Locations You Can Visit

7 newcastle.

Located in Northeast England, Newcastle is a beautiful city on the River Tyne that offers incredible history, unbeatable nightlife, and the fourth-largest football (soccer in America) stadium in England. Newcastle is a great destination to visit during the popular vacation months since travelers don't often visit northern England as much as they do the south.

Newcastle is truly a hub of hidden gems and underrated attractions such as the Tyne Bridge, the Theater Royal Opera House, and the not-so-well-known Gray Street and Gray Monument in honor of the former British Prime Minister and 2nd Earl Gray (which is where Earl Grey tea comes from!).

• Best time of year to visit: April-June
• Things to do: Newcastle Castle , St. James' Park football stadium, Great North Museum

6 Manchester

Another underrated city in England that is jam-packed with nightlife, exhibitions, and artistic experiences is Manchester. Manchester is just two hours north of London and the perfect stopping point between London and Edinburgh to check out some local music, shopping, and galleries!

The arts really take a shine in Manchester. Home to popular bands like The Smiths, Oasis, and The Stone Roses, Manchester proudly showcases its music history and offers incredible live music shows and theatrical performances. There is always some type of festival going on in Manchester all year round, so visitors can plan when to visit.

• Best time of year to visit: May-August
• Things to do: Manchester Cathedral, Science and Industry Museum, Manchester Art Gallery, Food Tour

If travelers are looking to escape modern city life, Chester, England, is a great place to find relaxation and old-city charm. Chester is a walled city that is steeped in ancient Roman history and architecture. Guests can wander through Britain's largest Roman Amphitheater, the 1000-year-old Chester Cathedral , and walk along the cobblestone streets. Travelers will instantly feel as though they've been transported through time to Victorian England.

• Best time of year to visit: June-August
• Things to do: Chester Castle, Chester Cathedral, River Dee, The Rows shopping center, Chester Zoo

4 Nottingham

Those who are familiar with the tales of Robin Hood will instantly recognize the name "Nottingham" because of the Sheriff of Nottingham. It is indeed a real place in England, and it is commonly overlooked! Nottingham is truly a hidden gem and not only has some popular locations to visit, but it's also known to have the largest network of caves in Britain .

If travelers were to choose one activity to do in Nottingham, it's highly recommended to visit Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem Pub , England's oldest inn. Built in 1189, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is an aesthetic and charming pub with premium beer, cocktails, and fresh-cooked meals. It's a can't-miss in this area.

• Best time of year to visit: May-June and September-October
• Things to do: Nottingham Walking Tour, Wollaton Hall and Park, The City of Caves, Nottingham Castle

15 Coolest Neighborhoods In London That Will Keep You Coming Back

Located in southwestern England, the city of Wells often gets overlooked because most tourists go to Bath instead, which is only 40 minutes away. But Wells is filled with incredible historical landmarks , stunning street views, and lush countryside that provides the perfect escape from city life.

Visitors can take a tour through the City Museum to learn about the history of Wells and get an up-close look inside the walls of the incredible Wells Cathedral. Afterward, taking a walk down High Street and Vicars' Close to look at the antique shops and cafés is a must to wrap up one's time in this 700-year-old city.

• Best time of year to visit: May to August
• Things to do: Wells Cathedral, The Bishop's Palace , Vicars' Close, Wells Market Place

Hereford is a fascinating city in England that no one seems to know about. From this city's incredible architecture to its picture-perfect parks and gardens, Hereford has fun activities that every traveler will enjoy.

One of Hereford's standout attractions is the Museum of Cider . Guests get an inside look at how the harvested apples are fermented and transformed into cider. Another fun activity that's encouraged in Hereford is taking a scenic cruise down the Wye River and exploring the local pubs around the city!

• Best time of year to visit: July-September
• Things to do: Hereford Cathedral , The Black and White House Museum, The Weir Garden, Berrington Hall

1 Birmingham

Often referred to as the UK's most underrated city , Birmingham is both an electric concrete jungle and a cultural, nature-filled haven. From music festivals to peaceful gardens, Birmingham has it all!

Travelers can take a stroll down the colorful streets, admiring the cultural blend around every corner, and try the unique flavors of Birmingham's best restaurants. Afterward, travelers can experience the city's biggest park, Cannon Hill Park .

• Best time of year to visit: April-June and September-October
• Things to do: Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Cadbury World, Stirchley Beer Mile

The Most Beautiful Places in England for Your Bucket List (Besides London)

Last Updated: February 3, 2021

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I think it’s time to admit the truth, guys… I’m beyond obsessed with England.

After all, as a little girl growing up in Canada, my daily routine consisted of practicing Harry Potter spells, jamming out to the Beatles and dreaming of (one day) marrying into the royal family…

And while I’ve grown older and wiser, (with more realistic goals), my fascination with England has never really ceased. From admiring the country in books and film to exploring its beauty for myself, I’m officially more England-obsessed than ever.

Especially when last month, I had the freedom to explore England by train with BritRail , I realized just how many overlooked destinations there are in this amazing country. Most visitors will flock to London, but today we’re going to dig beyond the capital, from dramatically rugged coastlines to Hogwarts- esque architectural magic. So, if you’re seeking inspiration for your next trip, here are some of the most beautiful places in England I’ve visited so far, plus a few that I have eagerly on my list.

PS: I know I’m still missing plenty of amazing destinations! Let me know in the comments what spots in England I should check out on my next trip.

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BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN ENGLAND MAP

Stunningly beautiful places to visit in england (besides london).

England is filled top to bottom with amazing places to explore. Here are a few of my favourites…

1. The Cotswolds

With rolling green hills and charmingly sleepy villages, the Cotswolds are often thought to represent English quaintness at its best. And yes, having road tripped around this area twice now, I can confirm that it is every bit as lovely and wonderful as the photos suggest.

There’s so much the Cotswolds have to offer, whether it’s village hopping, antique shopping or nursing a pint or ten in some mega-cozy pubs, so if it’s loveliness on steroids you’re after, be sure to visit the Cotswolds! For extra inspo, click here for my roundup of the best Cotswold villages and towns to visit.

Ask anyone about the most beautiful cities in England, and odds are, you’ll be hearing Bath again and again. Combining a postcard-perfect appeal with unique attractions like a stunning Abbey and historic Roman Baths, this Somerset gem is bar none one of the most beautiful places in the UK.

And whether it’s indulging in a world-famous Sally Lunn bun, or soaking in a day of pampering at Thermae Bath Spa, one thing’s for sure: Bath is a city you need on your bucket list. Click here for my Bath itinerary for a taste of what this city has to offer!

3. Cornwall

Venture to the Westernmost point of the country and you’ll be questioning whether or not you’re still in England. The turquoise blue waters of this unique peninsula make it an easy doppleganger for paradise destinations like Southern France or Italy.

In Cornwall, you’ll find a bit of everything, from white sand beaches and rugged cliffs to quaint fishing villages and historic ruins. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at surfing (and fail miserably like I did) or as a safer bet, tuck into some of the freshest seafood the UK has to offer.

PS: You have not lived life until you’ve tasted the glory of a fresh Cornish pasty. Packing tip – don’t forget your stretchy pants.

4. The Jurassic Coast

This 95 mile stretch along Southern England (from East Devon to Dorset) is considered one of the most picturesque places in the UK… a fact that’s impossible to argue once you’ve seen it.

With dozens of beautiful towns and villages to explore (including one actually  named ‘Beer’), Jurassic Coast visitors are spoiled silly for choice. Unique rock formations and clear blue waters can be found all along this stunning coastline, but if you’re truly crunched for time, don’t miss the iconic Durdle Door in Dorset, a natural limestone arch that is just begging to be photographed.

5. Liverpool

Contrary to popular belief, there is way more to this maritime marvel than its most famous export – the Beatles.

After visiting last month, Liverpool has quickly become one of my favourite cities in England. Besides plenty of world class museums and a vibrant international food scene, Liverpool is full of cool surprises at every turn, from the quirky Superlambanana mascot (yes, literally a lamb/banana hybrid) to architectural gems like this UFO-esque cathedral that (somehow) is even cooler on the inside!

And for Fab Four fanatics, there are plenty of opportunities to run wild, from rocking out at the Cavern Club (where the Beatles played countless gigs) to retracing history at the Beatles Story Museum and Magical Mystery Tour. My fellow fangirls, this city will complete you.

Now, Oxford is likely a city that needs no introduction. Its reputable university makes it one of the most famous places in England, but besides an array of architecturally stunning colleges and buildings, this city is renowned for epic shopping opportunities (#RIPwallet), stunning green spaces and surprising little spots like Holywell Street, packed with pretty, cotton candy houses.

Don’t miss famous sights like the Radcliffe Camera (FYI, NOT named after Daniel Radcliffe, as a fellow tourist assumed) and of course, take some time to lurk the grounds of famous Oxford colleges like Christ Church, which boasts a Great Hall ripped straight from the pages of Harry Potter. On that note, you can click here for a full list of Harry Potter filming locations around the UK if you’re interested 😉

7. Brighton

Busy, buzzing and vibrant, Brighton is a seaside city packed with fun surprises. A visit to the pier is a touristy must, all the better if you combine it with shameless fair eats and some throwback arcade time.

As for activities, when the temperamental weather allows, you can join the hordes of beachgoers in sunbathing bliss. Otherwise, spend your day hopping around quirky boutiques or the “wow worthy” Royal Pavilion, whose Indian-style architecture is an awesome, photogenic surprise.

Places Still on my England Bucket List

Of course, there’s always more to see and my list is growing longer every second. If the English eye candy above wasn’t sufficient, here are a few of the most beautiful places in England that I still have yet to visit.

I’ve been told repeatedly that this little city is a must see in England, not just for its epic Medieval charm but also its picturesque tangle of narrow streets, packed brick by brick with heritage and history. There’s plenty of things to do in York for a first timer  – it’s where you’ll find the largest medieval cathedral in Northern Europe (the York Minster), alongside a slew of interesting museums and of course, the picture perfect street known as “The Shambles”, one of the country’s most photographed.

9. Cambridge

Having fallen in love with Oxford, it’s only fair that I set my sights on its not-so-secret rival – Cambridge. Besides gorgeous churches and chapels, lush green spaces and impressive university grounds to lurk through, Cambridge is also home to a variety of cool museums and food.

Of course, while here, I would try my hand at punting… or more realistically, I’d sit elegantly in a boat as someone handsome did the work 😉

10. The Lake District

As a raging fangirl of dramatic landscapes and swoonworthy nature, it’s no wonder that the Lake District is near the top of my England bucket list.

Often described as an epic playground for the adventurous, I would love to spend my days here hiking, kayaking and channeling my inner zen. Not a bad place to do it, wouldn’t you say?

11. Norfolk

Norfolk, found on England’s east coast, is one of those counties that seems to have a bit of everything. From picturesque coastlines and nature reserves to countryside cuteness and bustling city charm, it really is the diversity of this vibrant county that accounts for its magnetic appeal. So whether you’re keen to spy on wildlife, explore historic sites, or enjoy miles of unspoilt beaches, Norfolk is one place that has you covered.

Also, it looks like this… can you blame me for drooling?

12. Manchester

Despite its crucial role in the industrial revolution, Manchester has come far in pivoting its image from industrial and bleak to effortlessly cool and youthful. This vibrant city is now a go-to destination for fun, food and drinks, and a hotspot for cultural events and concerts. Plus, with the oldest public library in the UK, and an entire mile devoted to curry – you best believe this city is filled with cool surprises too.

13. Nottingham

Nottingham is probably best known for everyone’s favourite outlaw, Robin Hood, but there’s far more to this piece of England than green tights and heroic thievery. Besides Nottingham Castle and Sherwood Forest (key hotspots for fans of Robin Hood), Nottingham has plenty of cool attractions to offer, including the National Video Game Arcade, which sounds like the greatest museum of all time.

PS, Batman fans: It’s also here that you’ll find Wollaton Hall, AKA Wayne Manor in the Dark Knight Rises. Na na na na na na na na aweeeesome.

14. The Peak District

Last but not least, with endless natural beauty, droves of cute villages and surprising attractions like the UK’s largest amusement park… it’s honestly perplexing  that I haven’t yet made my way to the Peak District.

This national park is one of UK’s first, and is often considered to be one of the most beautiful places in England. And in a spot where you can go abseiling, museum hopping and Mr. Darcy hunting all in one day (FYI, Chatsworth House was the location for Darcy’s home in the 2005 Pride and Prejudice film!!)… it’s really no wonder why this area is among the most visited destinations in England.

So, tell me: where are some of your favourite spots in England? The more underrated and undiscovered the better. Let me know in the comments!

22 Best Places To Visit Outside London For Day Trips

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The best places to visit outside London are perfect if you’re looking for a break from the UK capital’s hustle and bustle or want to experience more of what England offers.

From magnificent castles and charming historic cities to picturesque beaches, there’s something for everyone just a short distance from the capital.

Whether you’re interested in soaking up some culture or want to relax in beautiful surroundings, the best places to visit outside London will not disappoint.

Best Places to Visit Outside London on a Day Trip

While I’m a Brit, and I’ve explored England extensively, for this article, I’ve asked travel blogging friends to share their personal recommendations for the best places to visit outside London, the top things to see and exactly how to get to each location to make the most of your time.

Are you ready to get started?

1. The Cotswolds

Submitted by Ingrid from Ingrid Zen Moments

The Cotswolds  is an area of outstanding natural beauty located in southwest England. It stretches across five counties, including Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and Wiltshire and is one of the best places to visit outside London.

With its rolling hills, honey-coloured villages, and lush green countryside, it’s easy to see why this region has become so popular with tourists worldwide.

From quaint stone cottages to elegant manor houses, there are plenty of things to explore in the Cotswolds – not least its charming towns and villages like Chipping Campden, Stow on the Wold, and Bourton on the Water.

Depending on which villages you choose to visit, you can easily create a lovely itinerary that will take you through some of the most picturesque places in the UK. 

Admire Arlington Row in Bibury , stop by Cirencester, the largest town in the Cotswolds that was once an important Roman settlement, take a picture with the church door that inspired Tolkien’s “Doors of Durin” in Stow-on-the-Wold, or search for the filming locations of the famous Downton Abbey TV series. 

How to get to the Cotswolds

While few great train or public transportation connections exist, the Cotswolds are easily reached from London by car in less than 2 hours each way. ➡️ Check the best car rental rates here.

2. Coventry, West Midlands

Submitted by Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Coventry is a fun, convenient and unique day trip from London, where you can see a lot in one day. It’s a charming city often overlooked by its neighbours of Birmingham and Stratford-Upon-Avon.

See the famous Lady Godiva Statue , as well as one of England’s most famous Cathedrals, and visit the Transport Museum – a significant museum, seeing as Coventry was one of the car manufacturing capitals of the world until not long ago!

Coventry is full of history and unique hidden gems and was also named the UK City of Culture in 2021 . Around 900 years ago, Lady Godiva rode naked on a horse through the streets of Coventry to protest a tax her husband had imposed.

You’ll find the statue of her riding the horse in the town centre and the bust of ‘Peeping Tom’ who was caught looking at her! During World War II, Coventry was one of the most bombed places in the UK (yes – even more so than London !). In the Blitz, medieval Coventry Cathedral was completely destroyed. You can visit this Old Cathedral: the ruins still remain today, so you can walk around them and visit the New Cathedral adjacent to it. Both look fantastic during the day and when lit up in the evening.

How to get to Coventry

The best way to travel to Coventry from London is by train. The journey takes just over an hour on the fast service. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

3. Paris, France

Submitted by Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast

No list of the best places to visit outside London would be complete without mentioning Paris – it’s a very easy train ride from London to tick this incredible French city off your bucket list.

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a must-do for most visitors (I highly recommend climbing the stairs to the second floor – it’s very fun being on the staircase inside the legs of the tower). 

Beyond that, it really depends on your interests. The Louvre is a great choice if you’re into world-class museums. You really want 2-3 hours in the Louvre to see some highlights.

Otherwise, you could stop by the Rodin Museum for sculptures, the L’Orangerie for Monet’s Water Lilies, or the Musée d’Orsay for impressionist art. 

If you prefer exploring the parks and gardens of Paris , then stop by the Jardin de Tuileries and Jardin de Luxembourg. These are two of the city’s most famous and popular gardens, and have greenspace, plenty of park chairs, stunning flower displays, basins and fountains, and sculptures galore. 

Or perhaps visiting Montmartre is more your vibe, with the gleaming white Sacre Coeur basilica and the artsy, bohemian neighbourhood around it. 

If you prefer a little bit of everything, I’d start with the Eiffel Tower, then visit the Louvre, the Jardin de Tuileries, walk part of the Champs Elysees, and end at the Arc de Triomphe. Most of these sites are in a straight line and make for a good sampling of Paris’ top attractions.

How to get to Paris

The fastest and easiest way to travel to Paris from London is by train. The journey takes 2 hours and 15 minutes on the Eurostar train via the Channel Tunnel. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

Alternatively, this guided tour of Paris , includes the Opera House, Champs-Elysees , and the Arc de Triomphe , with a 1-hour river cruise on the Seine for memorable views of Notre Dame Cathedral . There’s also free time for you to shop or stop for a delicious meal.

4. Winchester, Hampshire

Submitted by Kristin from Scotland Explored

Winchester is best known for its Gothic cathedral and Jane Austin connections. Frequent direct trains make this cathedral city one of the easiest and best day trips from London without a car.

Walking from the train station into the city centre, you pass one of the impressive gates remaining from the wall that once surrounded Winchester. The city wall was built during the Roman settlement of southern Britain. Large parts of the wall remain, and the best place to see it is on the southern side of the cathedral, close to King’s Gate.

After exploring the narrow streets around King’s Gate, stroll along the river past Winchester City Mill back to High Street.

Save a visit to the cathedral for last. It is 900 years old and has long been associated with the British Royal family. It was where ‘Bloody’ Queen Mary got married, and more recently, it was featured in the Netflix show The Crown .

It is also where Jane Austin is buried. While she lived most of her life in the small village of Chewton, she died in Winchester. The house where she lived most of her life is now a museum.

Winchester is also great for shopping, and the side streets off High Street are full of cosy cafes and restaurants. For coffee, cake, or a light lunch, go to the Project Store & Kitchen . 

Top Tip : The best place to eat in Winchester is the Black Rat. Make sure you book a table well in advance.

How to get to Winchester

The best way to travel to Winchester from London is by train from Paddington station. The journey takes just over an hour on the fast service. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

Discover 12 wonderful things to do in Winchester , plus where to eat and stay in this charming city.

5. Brighton, East Sussex

Submitted by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Brighton is a seaside town that is one of the most popular day trips from London by train. This vibrant and colourful town offers a range of activities and attractions that make it one of the best places to visit outside London on an easy day trip.

One of the main draws of Brighton is its famous pebble beach, which is perfect for strolling, sunbathing, or enjoying a refreshing dip in the sea. The iconic Brighton Pier offers a range of fun activities like arcade games, amusement park rides, and classic seaside treats like fish and chips and ice cream.

Beyond the beach, Brighton also offers a range of cultural and historical attractions. The Royal Pavilion is a stunning palace that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of British royalty in the 19th century. The .ígvbf offers a range of exhibits that highlight the town’s rich history and cultural diversity.

A boat trip from London to Brighton is also available for those looking for a more unique and scenic route. This leisurely journey takes a little longer but offers incredible views of the South Downs and the English Channel.

How to get to Brighton

Getting to Brighton is easy and convenient. Trains depart from London’s Victoria Station and London Bridge Station throughout the day. The comfortable journey offers stunning countryside views. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

6. Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

Submitted by Tina from Veganderlust

Cambridge makes for a great day trip when you’re in London in summer , as it’s the best season to visit this historic university city.

Going for a boat ride in the sun and admiring the beautiful architecture is one of the best things to do in Cambridge.

But, boat tours in Cambridge are not on just any boat but on a Punt – a long, flat-bottomed boat propelled with a long pole. You get some amazing views while going down the river!

A walking tour is the best way to learn about the world-famous University of Cambridge and its many colleges.

Top Tip: The best view of the stunning Gothic university buildings is from the tower of Great St. Mary’s church.

How to get to Cambridge

Getting to Cambridge is quick and convenient, with a journey time of just over one hour. Trains depart from London’s Kings Cross Station or Liverpool Street regularly throughout the day. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

7. Leeds Castle, Kent

Submitted by Karen from Forever Karen

Nestled in the picturesque county of Kent, Leeds Castle is a stunning example of a fairy-tale castle. Dubbed the “ loveliest castle in the world ,” it is a popular destination for visitors looking for a romantic day trip from London.

Whether you travel by car or train, expect to spend most of the day touring the estate. If your budget allows, you can extend your visit by staying in one of the Courthouse Stable bedrooms .

The castle dates back 900 years and was once a royal residence, home to six queens and King Henry VIII himself. During World War II, the castle served as a military hospital. After the war, Lady Baillie, the last owner, spent much of her fortune restoring the residence to its former glory.

Upon her death, Lady Baillie bequeathed the estate to a trust, and the Leeds Castle Foundation maintains the estate. Today, visitors can explore Lady Braille’s renovated rooms, including her bedroom, seminar room, and library, while other parts of the castle remain untouched.

Beyond the castle walls, the 500 acres of grounds include breathtaking landscapes, a serene lake, and a thrilling hedge maze made of over 2,000 yew trees.

Consider a Segway tour if you’re seeking a unique way to explore the grounds.

How to Visit Leeds Castle

The easiest way to visit Leeds Castle is on a guided tour direct from London.

• This tour includes visits to Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Dover
• This tour will take you to Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover, and Greenwich .

If you prefer to travel independently, hourly trains depart from London’s Victoria Station to Bearsted for Leeds Castle, with a journey time of just over one hour.

Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio , and pre-book your entrance tickets for the castle here to save time when you arrive 🙂

8. Leeds, West Yorkshire

If you’re looking for a day trip outside London, Leeds is the perfect destination . The rich history and culture in this vibrant West Yorkshire city attracts visitors from all over the world.

To start your day right, head straight to one of Europe’s largest indoor markets-  Kirkgate Market – for   everything from fresh produce to vintage clothing and unique souvenirs.. Wander through the stalls and soak up the atmosphere of this bustling marketplace.

Next, make your way over to Leeds Art Gallery , where you’ll find an impressive collection of British art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so check their website ahead of time to see what’s on display.

After immersing yourself in art, grab a water taxi from Leeds station and check out the Royal Armoury Museum , which houses the National Collection of Arms and Armoury. Don’t miss the incredible “ Hall of Steel ” display!

For lunch, head back into town for some delicious street food at Trinity Kitchen . This trendy food hall features rotating vendors, so there’s always something new and exciting to try. Grab a bite to eat before heading off again on your adventure!

One must-visit attraction in Leeds is undoubtedly Kirkstall Abbey – an impressive ruined Cistercian monastery dating back almost 900 years! Explore its beautiful grounds before heading back into town for drinks at one of Leeds’ many bars, such as North Bar or The Maven Cocktail Bar.

How to get to Leeds

Leeds is one of the best places to visit outside London, with a journey time of just over two hours from London Kings Cross Station. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

9. Bletchley Park, Buckinghamshire

Submitted by Sharon Oldegaard of Exploring Our World

At Bletchley Park , home of the WWII Codebreakers, you can immerse yourself in the world where the Allies intercepted and decoded German messages.

This is where about 10,000 people carried on their vital work. Though shrouded in secrecy for decades after the war, Bletchley Park is now partially restored and open to the public.

At this heritage attraction, you can enjoy films, interactive displays, museum collections, recreated working huts, and the main mansion used for administration.

Learn about the brilliant thinkers who figured out how to decode the complicated German Enigma machines.

An early computer developed here called a “bombe” runs so you can see how it worked. Even though these bombes were destroyed after the war, this one was rebuilt from existing plans. It was used in the movie “The Imitation Game,” set at Bletchley Park.  

A highlight of your tour will be the recently restored Teleprinter Building. The exhibition is called “D-Day: Interception, Intelligence, Invasion.” This will give you a more filled-out view of the codebreakers’ role during this Day of Days.

A visit to Bletchley Park will open your eyes not only to the vital work performed here but also to the global impact the codebreakers had on the outcome of WWII.

How to visit Bletchley Park

Bletchley Park is easily accessible from London, with a journey time of around one hour from London’s Euston Station. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

10. Brussels, Belgium

By Annelies from Travelers & Dreamers

The capital of Belgium is perfect for day trips from London. This city is famous for its beautiful Art Deco buildings at La Grand Place , the Atomium , and the peculiar statues of Jeanneke and Manneke Pis .

The best way to explore Brussels is by visiting the above-mentioned highlights on arrival and picking one of Brussels’s cool neighbourhoods to explore in the afternoon.

Antique lovers can indulge in vintage shopping in the Marollen, known for its plethora of antique shops and the famous daily flea market at het Vossenplein .

The best area to visit in Brussels for a bit of luxury is Louiza. You can window-shop at high-end boutique stores and enjoy gastronomic diners at restaurants housed in marvellous Belle Epoque buildings.

If you’re a plant-based foodie, one of the best vegan restaurants in Brussels , Humus x Hortense, is in this area and recently received a Michelin Star. 

One of the best neighbourhoods in Brussels for a quick day trip is Dansaert and St. Catherine. With its avant-garde vibe, you’ll experience a great mix of old and new, traditional yet experimental.

Discover trendy stores from local designers, hip coffee shops, and typical Belgian brown pubs and vintage stores. Brussels Beer Project is a Belgian Brewery located in this part of the city that you can visit from Thursday to Sunday.

On top of that, don’t forget to try other typical Belgium delicacies like chocolate and Belgian waffles!

How to get to Brussels

The fastest and easiest way to travel to Brussels from London is by train. The journey takes just 2 hours on the Eurostar train from London’s St Pancras Station. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

11. Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

Submitted by Brittney from A Mom Well Traveled

Warwick Castle has plenty of things to do for kids , making it one of the best places to visit outside London for families. You can expect to spend several hours exploring, including getting lost in a maze, strolling the courtyard, or taking a history tour. 

There are shows and a themed kids’ area featuring Zog the Dragon to keep little people entertained at Warwick Castle!

Warwick is a medieval castle extended from the original Norman fort, built by William the Conqueror in 1068.

The facade opposite the town was refortified during the Hundred Years War, to create one of the most recognisable examples of 14th-century military architecture.

The castle remained in use as a stronghold until early in the 17th century when it was granted by James I to Sir Fulke Greville whose family converted it to a country house and lived in the castle until 1978 when it was sold to the Tussauds Group.

How to Get To Warwick Castle

A guided tour is undoubtedly the most relaxing way to visit Warwick Castle on a day trip from London, as there are no trains direct to the castle. This popular day trip from London includes visits to Oxford, Stratford, the Cotswolds, and Warwick Castle .

If you prefer to travel by train, the total journey time is just over 2 hours; however, you will need to transfer to a bus from Coventry, and there’s a decent walk to the castle from the bus stop.

You can c ompare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio , and pre-book your entrance tickets for the castle here to save time when you arrive 🙂

12. Dover, Kent

Submitted by Paulina from UK Everyday

London to Dover is one of the most popular day trips from London, and it’s no wonder why. With its stunning views of the English Channel, historical sites such as Dover Castle, and various activities to do in the area, it’s a great destination for anyone looking for an exciting day out in England.

Whether you’re looking to explore the countryside and  hike the White Cliffs of Dover  or relax on a beach, there are plenty of amazing things to do.

Dover Castle , located in the county of Kent, is one of England’s most iconic and historically significant 12th-century castles. It has been a key defensive fortification throughout its long history, playing an important role in defending Britain against foreign invasions.

Today, visitors can explore the castle’s many features and learn more about its fascinating past.

A day trip from London to Dover is a great way to experience the beauty of England’s countryside and a historic World War II site. 

How to Get To Dover

Dover is a charming English coastal town; getting there from London is easy. From direct trains to coach tours, there are many ways to make the journey comfortable and enjoyable.

➡️ This highly-rated tour from London to Dover includes a visit to Canterbury Cathedral as well as the White Cliffs of Dover .

If you prefer to travel by train, the journey takes from 1 hour 30 minutes. You can c ompare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio , and pre-book your entrance tickets for Dover castle here to save time when you arrive 🙂

13. Cardiff, Wales

Recommended by Steph from Book It Let’s Go!

Cardiff, the Welsh capital, is a great city to explore on an easy  day trip from London to Cardiff .

Cardiff Castle is one of the best attractions to visit. Take a few hours to explore the castle rooms, grounds, walls and museum and learn about the uses of the castle over the years.

While the weather in Cardiff can be rainy, you can make the best of the city by exploring the small covered arcades (shopping areas) featuring boutique shops and independent restaurants.

Top Tip : Visit Coffee Barker for delicious homemade cakes and luxury hot chocolate.

In Cardiff market, you’ll discover lovely local businesses, crafts and food to try, including traditional Welsh cakes from Bakestones. Welsh cakes are a sweet local treat similar to a scone, with many different flavours.

If the weather is nice, head to Bute Park in the heart of the city and enjoy the beautiful gardens and champion trees in the park.

How to Visit Cardiff

Multiple trains operate from London to Cardiff daily, as well as coach tours . If you prefer to travel by train, the journey takes from 2 hours from London’s Paddington Station. Check train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

14. Lincoln, Lincolnshire

Submitted by Abigail from The Novelsphere

Lincoln is one of the most underrated gems in the UK and the perfect day trip from London if you love the Gothic style and history. Best of all, it’s only a direct LNER train from King’s Cross! 

Lincoln Cathedral is the most famous landmark in this historic city. Its Gothic design, stunning interior and colourful stained glass windows make it a must-see when visiting! 

Fun Fact: Lincoln Cathedral was the filming location for Westminster Abbey in The Da Vinci Code, Young Victoria and The King!

Take the Medieval Wall Walk along the castle’s walls for the best views of Lincoln Cathedral and the city. The one-hour walk has information points about the city’s history and views of landmarks such as the Wastegate Water Tower , which still supplies water to the people of Lincoln to this day. 

Just across from the Cathedral, you’ll find Lincoln Castle . For a real sneak peek of what 19th century Lincoln was like, head over to the Castle’s Victorian Prison and discover the history and lives of prisoners, guards, governors, matrons and priests.

And if you’re really interested in the history of UK politics, you can see one of the four remaining original copies of the Magna Carta in the castle too!  

To end your day trip to Lincoln on a spooky note, head to the Lincoln Ghost Walk , where you’ll find out about Lincoln’s ghost hauntings and supernatural history!  

How to Visit Lincoln

Trains from London to Lincoln take 2 and a half hours from London’s Kings Cross station. Check train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

15. Salisbury & Stonehenge, Wiltshire

Submitted by Sarah from Slow Travel UK

Salisbury and Stonehenge are the perfect places for a day trip from London – a quick journey on a direct train from Waterloo takes you straight to the heart of the medieval city of Salisbury.

Take the Stonehenge Tour bus from outside the train station and enjoy a morning at the prehistoric stones. You can walk around them and visit the exhibition gallery with a fantastic 360-degree surround of the stones through the centuries.

Walk around the chalk landscape of Salisbury Plain , visiting neolithic barrows, the ancient Cursus and Woodhenge, which was built around the same time as Stonehenge.

The bus back to Salisbury takes you via Old Sarum , the ancient Roman fort with fantastic views over the countryside.

Salisbury city centre is filled with medieval timber buildings, museums, fantastic shops and restaurants and, of course, the famous  Salisbury Cathedral , which has the largest spire in the UK.

Top Tip: To see something special and off the usual tourist trail, visit St Thomas’ Church for the country’s largest and best-preserved Doom Painting.

Why not finish off your day in Salisbury at the 1920s bar Caboose for a fancy afternoon tea or some cocktails; it is only a two-minute walk from there back to the train station and your return journey back to the capital. 

Discover Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral the easy way on this highly-rated tour direct from central London . Visits to the historic city of Bath and Windsor Castle are included!

16. Arundel, West Sussex

Submitted by Milijana of World Travel Connector 

Arundel on the River Arun in West Sussex is one of the most picturesque towns in England and one of the top easy day trips from London.

The town is best known for Arundel Castle , the home of the Duke of Norfolk. Part of the castle is open to the public, and it’s one of the most visited castles in England. 

But Arundel is not only about the Castle. The Victorian and Georgian architecture , charming streets filled with pubs, restaurants, and galleries, and location on the lovely Arun River make Arundel one of the most beautiful places in England.

For lunch, head to one of Arundel’s many cosy restaurants. The Parsons Table is known for serving the best British food (which is among the  most popular food in the world !) Its relaxing atmosphere makes the entire dining experience even more enjoyable.

After lunch, consider exploring this historic town on a guided walking tour . If you are a fan of museums, you will love visiting Arundel Museum .

However, if you are a nature enthusiast, the green paths along River Arun are perfect for exploring.

But that’s not all!

Many day trippers to Arundel choose kayaking or hiring a motorboat for cruising the River Arun.

Top Tip : Head to one of the many lively pubs for the end of your day in Arundel. The famous and historic Black Rabbit pub is fabulous!

How to Get to Arundel

The fastest way to reach Arundel is by train; however, driving to Arundel from London does not take much longer than a train ride. Trains from London’s Victoria station take 90 minutes to reach Arundel. Check train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

17. Bath, Somerset

Submitted by Raksha of Solopassport

Famous for its Roman-built baths, the city of Bath was founded in the 7th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site . While it’s a compact city, Bath has plenty of things to see and do and is rated as one of the best places to visit outside London.

Notable landmarks include the two universities, 250-year-old Pulteney Bridge , spas, canals, and the 7th-century church known as Bath Abbey . These old structures and buildings are fine examples of Roman and Georgian architecture.

Top Tip: Visit the spa and baths in the morning, when they are less crowded, so you can avoid long queues 🙂

Summer (June and September) is the best season to visit Bath, although it’s well worth visiting the city during the off-season (from November to February), as you will find fewer crowds.

Bath is easy to explore on foot on a walking tour – just remember to wear comfortable walking shoes!

Best Walking Tour of Bath ( Rating 4.9/5 )

👣 This top-rated guided walking tour includes skip-the-line entry to the Roman Baths. You’ll also discover Jane Austin’s role in the city, Bridgerton filming locations, Bath Abbey and the Pump Room!

➡️ Check price and availability here.

How to get to Bath

Bath is perfect for a day trip from London, with easy access by public transport and a journey time of around 1 hour and 45 minutes by train. Trains for Bath Spa station depart from London’s Paddington station.

➡️ Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

18. Hampton Court, Greater London (Richmond upon Thames)

Submitted by Audra from The Nerd Traveler

Hampton Court is a 16th-century River Thames palace with vast halls, enormous kitchens, and impressive gardens. 

Located less than 15 miles southwest of Central London, visiting Hampton Court is like stepping back into the turbulent reign of King Henry VIII.

Henry VIII moved into the palace with Anne Boleyn (the second of his six wives and mother to the future Queen Elizabeth I). During his time at the palace, the vast halls hosted up to 800 courtiers, and up to 1600 meals per day could be prepared in the Great Kitchen.  

After the deaths of Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I, King James I took up residence at Hampton Court.  Under his reign, the palace hosted performances of William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and “Macbeth” and a conference that produced the King James Bible in 1611.

Sir Christopher Wren (famed English architect of St. Paul’s Cathedral) completed more renovations during the rule of King William III and Queen Mary, including the Garden Maze and the Chocolate Kitchens . Chocolate was a luxury at the time and demonstrated the opulence and novelty of their reign.  

Each summer, two festivals showcase the history and art of Hampton Court. There is a Music Festival in June and a Garden Festival in July.

Hampton Court is one of the best places to visit outside London if you appreciate British history and culture.

How to get to Hampton Court

Visiting Hampton Court Palace is quick and easy, with a journey time of less than an hour from London’s Victoria Station. ➡️ Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

19. Windsor (+ Windsor Castle), Berkshire

Submitted by Joanne from The World In My Pocket

Windsor Castle is the main attraction when you visit Windsor for the day . This Royal Residence has over 900 years of history and makes a fascinating visit.

Top Tip: Buy your ticket online and tick the “donation box”. The ticket will be valid for an entire year – a great budget saver if you plan to return to Windsor. ( Admission charges include a free audio guide covering the palace’s history and notable art pieces ).

The Long Walk extends from the gates of the palace for three kilometres to the Copper Horse Statue . Is a nice relaxing walk through the deer park where you can spot friendly red deer as well as ancient oak trees.

There are plenty of other things to do in Windsor besides visiting the castle. Find the crooked house and learn its naughty legends, and make sure to have a drink at the Prince Harry pub , which displays a photo of the Royal Couple on one of their upstairs windows.

How to get to Windsor

Windsor is easy to reach from London, with a direct train from Waterloo taking about an hour. Windsor has two train stations, and it’s good to know that Windsor and Eton Riverside is the most central.

➡️ If you want the simplicity of visiting Windsor Castle on a guided tour, with everything organised for you, this popular one-day tour from London includes Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath.

20. Harry Potter Studio Tour, Hertfordshire

Submitted by Chelsea from Adventures of Chels

For a great day trip from London, head to Leavesden for the  Harry Potter Studio Tour!

A great way to visit the studio is through a tour from London . This includes transportation to and from London on a cool Harry Potter-themed double-decker bus and a ticket to enter the studio. Once you’re inside the studio, it’s all self-guided. 

➡️ Booking this Harry Potter tour is also a great idea since tickets on the studio’s website can frequently sell out.  

The studio is a magical place. The costumes and sets from the movies are perfectly preserved and displayed in a way that every Harry Potter fan can enjoy and appreciate. 

Highlights of this tour include the Great Hall, Gryffindor Common Room, Mirror of Erised, Hagrid’s hut, and a scale model of Hogwarts. 

Best time to visit the Harry Potter Studios

Visiting the studios is a fun experience at any time of year; during Halloween and Christmas, the films’ holiday decorations are displayed. 

The Great Hall is an *especially* cool experience at Christmas

Note: It takes roughly 3.5 hours to see the entire studio. About halfway through the tour, food and butterbeer are available (which shouldn’t be missed)!  

Enjoy your visit to the Harry Potter Studio Tour !

21. York, North Yorkshire

If you love history, York is one of the best places to visit outside London by train, as London to York trains take just over 2 hours.

While in the ancient city of York , you’ll want to visit York Minster , the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe. Take the York Minster Tower challenge if you’re fit and healthy – it’s a 10-minute climb up 275 narrow, winding steps to the top, but the view is incredible!

Alternatively, wander through the Shambles – the most complete medieval street in Europe, walk the medieval Y ork city wall s, or step back to the days when York was a Viking settlement at Yorvik.

Some of the best ways to see York include guided walking tours, riverboat cruises , or (my favourite) spooky ghost tours .

How to get to York

The best way to travel to York from London is by train from London’s Kings Cross station. The journey takes just over two hours on the fast service. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

22. Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwickshire

Submitted by Anu from Country Hopping Couple

Stratford upon Avon  is located so centrally in England’s midlands, that it makes for a perfect day trip from any major city in the UK, including day trips from London. 

Known as Shakespeare Country, Stratford Upon Avon was the home of the famous playwright and poet. On a guided tour you can see as many as six of the houses connected to Shakespeare (also known as “The bard of Stratford”).

These include Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Gardens, Nash’s House and New Place, Mary Arden’s Farm and Hall’s Croft, or book your favourite play at Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre . 

But, there’s more to Stratford upon Avon than Shakespeare. The historic half-timbered houses and buzzing Bancroft Gardens are well worth visiting.

Alternatively, try to spot all of the sculptures around the city centre or rent a boat and potter about on the River Avon.  Whether you are a literary buff or not, a day trip to Stratford upon Avon is totally worth it.  

How to get to Stratford Upon Avon

The best way to travel to Stratford Upon Avon from London is by train from London’s Euston station. Compare train prices and availability on Trainline and Omio .

FAQs: The Best Places to Visit Outside London

What countries are a day trip from london.

Some of the easiest countries to visit on a day trip from London include France (for Paris), Belgium (for Brussels), and Jersey, although Ireland is also only a short flight from London

What locations are just outside of London?

London has many options for day trips beyond the city centre. The suggestions in this post are a good starting point when looking for the best places to visit outside London.

Conclusion: Best Places to Visit Outside London

In conclusion, there is no shortage of incredible places to visit outside London by car or by train. From the picturesque countryside of the Cotswolds to stunning coastal towns like Brighton and some of England’s most fascinating castles, each day trip from London offers its unique charm and appeal.

Whether you’re looking for historical landmarks, natural beauty, or vibrant city life, there is something for everyone just a short distance from London.

So why not take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and plan some day trips from London by car to explore everything these fantastic locations offer? You won’t be disappointed!

Thanks for stopping by!

I hope you found this post about the best day trips from London helpful.

You may want to check out more UK travel posts below:

• Is London Worth Visiting? 25 Top Things To Do in London 2024
• How To Get To Jersey From London: An Extensive Guide From a Local
• 19 Awesome Nerdy Things To Do In London
• 27 Interesting Facts About Leeds You Probably Didn’t Know!
• Visiting England for the First Time? 25 Best Tips From a Local

If you enjoyed this post on the best places to see outside London, please pin it to help it reach more readers!

These are the companies I use to book all of my trips. I only recommend companies I use and trust personally.

• ⭐️ Flight Deals : Wayaway or Expedia , or Skyscanner  
• ⭐️ Hotel Booking : Booking.com or Hotels.com
• ⭐️ Self-Catered Accommodation : VRBO
• ⭐️ Tours / Things To Do / Airport Transfers : Viator or Get Your Guide
• ⭐️ Travel Insurance : Travel Insurance Master  
• ⭐️ Car Rentals : Rentalcars.com
• ⭐️ Train Travel : Trainline and Omio

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe and bucketlist destinations with meticulously crafted guides and affordable luxury itineraries, Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems.

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12 Very Best Cities in England to visit

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 31, 2023

Do you enjoy culture, history, architecture, art, food and shopping? You will find all this and more on offer in England’s cities. This guide provides an introduction to 12 of the very best cities in England- an essential read when planning a visit.

While England’s pretty market towns and chocolate box villages may dominate bucket lists there are many cities also worth exploring.

If you are unsure which cities to include in your itinerary this article will help by introducing you to 12 of the very best English cities located across the 9 regions of the country. You will find information about some of the top things to see and do in each city as well as a brief overview of what each city is known for.

These English cities are all accessible by train from London so can be easily included in your UK travel plans if you are based in the capital. To help you plan your trip I have included the logistics of how to get to each city from London.

You will find a map showing the various locations of these best of English cities at the bottom of the post.

Which of these best cities in England will you visit next?

Cities to visit in North West England

Think of Liverpool and the Beatles or football will probably spring to mind.

With numerous restaurants, bars, and museums Liverpool is just one of many cities in England that is the perfect destination for a weekend trip. While it is possible to see the highlights of Liverpool in one day (if you plan well) I would recommend at least 2 days to really explore.

Liverpool is a walkable city and there are good public transport links to and from major destinations across the UK.

What to see and do in Liverpool

• Royal Albert Dock Liverpool

The docks and warehouses which were opened in 1846 now form part of the former UNESCO World Heritage-listed ‘Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City’

With numerous bars, restaurants, museums and shops the Albert Dock is one of the best places to visit in Liverpool.

• Tate Liverpool

Also situated at the Royal Albert Dock is the Tate Liverpool which houses a collection of modern art.

The museum is open Monday to Sunday between 10.00 and 17.50. Entry is free except for special exhibitions.

• Love the Beatles? 

It’s been a hard day’s night … head to the Cavern Club arguably (as it states on their website) the most famous club in the world.

The Royal Albert Dock is also home to the Beatles Story an exhibition all about Liverpool’s most famous sons. And while at the waterfront don’t forget to take a selfie of yourself posing with the statues of Ringo, John, Paul and George!

More ideas for your visit can be found in my complete Liverpool Itinerary for fans of the Beatles

Click to buy tickets for the Beatles story

• Another Place

If you are looking for something different to do in Liverpool why not head to nearby Crosby to see Anthony Gormley’s Another Place ? Consisting of 100 cast iron life size figures standing along a 3 km stretch of Crosby beach they are worth the short train journey from Liverpool.

Read more – Complete guide to visiting the city of Liverpool

How to travel to Liverpool from London by train

• Distance from London: 178 miles
• Time taken by train: 2 hours 30 mins
• Leave from: London Euston to Liverpool Lime Street (hourly direct service)

Where to stay in Liverpool

There are accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets in Liverpool. I recommend staying in the centre of the city within walking distance of Albert Docks and the main train station.

BEST – Hard Day’s Night Hotel

This Beatles themed hotel is round the corner from the Cavern Club and is our number one choice of accommodation in Liverpool. Close to all the main sights, this 5* hotel is decorated with Beatles memorabilia and decor.

MID-RANGE – The Liner Hotel

The Liner Hotel is a 3-star ocean liner themed hotel with modern rooms, an on-site brasserie and a cocktail lounge.

BUDGET – The Z Hotel

The Z Hotel in Liverpool is an excellent budget option. The rooms are compact but there is a cafe and free WiFi for guests.

Read more – My Liverpool Travel Guide contains everything you need to know to plan your visit to the city

⭐️ CLICK TO BUY

Manchester in the North West of England is often called the Capital of the North and is the 5th largest city in the UK.

It has an outstanding music legacy (it is the home of bands such as Oasis, the Stone Rose and the Smiths) and is world-famous for its football team.

Manchester offers culture, sporting venues, nightclubs, shopping districts and restaurants which make it the perfect weekend break destination.

What to see and do in Manchester

• Northern Quarter

Explore the Northern Quarter a trendy neighbourhood of Manchester with street art, bars and cafes. Pop into Federal for brunch and then Afflecks for cocktails and drinks.

• Salford Quays 

The Lowry is a theatre and gallery complex situated in the Salford Quays area of Manchester. Take in a show or browse the art.

The second largest Chinatown in the UK with lots of great restaurants and shops. Head there for Chinese New Year celebrations and the best bubble tea anywhere.

How to get to Manchester from London by train

• Distance from London: 163 miles
• Leave from: London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly 

Where to stay in Manchester

These are my recommended accommodation options for Manchester.

BEST – The Edwardian Manchester

MID-RANGE – The Midland

BUDGET – Ibis Styles Manchester Portland Hotel

Chester, like York is a walled Medieval city with its roots in Roman England. It is a pretty city with loads of character and boasts preserved historic buildings including the most complete city walls as well as the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain.

Don’t miss the beautiful half-timbered houses on Watergate Street and Lower Bridge Street during your visit.

What to see and do in Chester

The Rows are galleries that form the second row of shops above those at street level. They have to be reached by steps and are the only shops built like this in the world. They are found along the main city centre streets and contain shops, bars and restaurants.

• Chester’s city walls

Walk the 2-mile circuit around the city and spot many historically significant sites along the way including the four main gates into Chester.

• Chester Cathedral in particular the Cathedral Choir

Don’t miss the beautiful 14th-century stalls in the choir area of the Cathedral.

Read more about Chester in my complete Chester Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

How to travel to Chester from London

• Time taken by train: 2 hours 
• Leave from: London Euston to Chester

Where to stay in Chester

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Chester. These are my top selections:

BEST – The Chester Grosvenor

This 5* luxury hotel is located in the heart of Chester and offers visitors a luxury experience including a Michelin starred restaurant.

MID -RANGE – Mill Hotel and Spa

Enjoy views of the Shropshire Union Canal while you dine in one of the 4 hotel eateries. Alternatively, take a meal and a cruise on the hotel’s Restaurant Cruise or enjoy the hotel’s spa facilities after a day of sightseeing in Chester.

BUDGET – The Saddle Inn

Located in the city centre this hotel offers guests a comfortable stay with free WiFi. Pets are allowed at no extra cost.

Read more – What to do and see in North West England

Cities to visit in North East England

Situated in the ceremonial county of Tyne and Wear (and the historic county of Northumberland ) Newcastle with its industrial heritage, lively nightlife, great shopping, restaurants, bars and museums are the perfect starting point to explore the North East.

If you are not from the UK you may find the distinctive regional accent – Geordie – a little difficult to understand but the warmth and friendliness of the people will easily make up for any difficulties.

Spend a day or two exploring the city then embark on a road trip along the Northumberland Coast . With more castles than any other county and the remains of the Roman Wall stretching from Wallsend in the east to Cumbria in the west, it is easy to spend a week or more exploring the sights of Northumberland .

What to see and do in Newcastle

• Tyne Bridge

The iconic structure and symbol of Newcastle the Tyne Bridge was opened in 1928. It is strikingly similar to the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia although is 3 times shorter and half the height of its Aussie twin! The bridges were designed and built by the same company which goes a long way to explain their similarities.

• The Angel of the North

Although technically in Gateshead (a town located on the southern bank of the River Tyne) the Angel of the North cannot be missed when visiting Newcastle.

Created by the sculptor Anthony Gormley and standing on a hill overlooking the A1 motorway this beautiful landmark welcomes visitors to the region.

At 20 meters high and with a wingspan of 54 meters the Angel of the North is reputed to be the largest angel sculpture in the world. It is accessible by both car and public transport.

• The Quayside

With great restaurants and bars, The Quayside is the place to head for a night out in Newcastle. It is also home to the Gateshead Millennium Bridge (the world’s only tilting bridge and yes another iconic bridge spanning the Tyne river)

If you enjoy modern art the BALTIC art gallery can be found on the opposite bank or if markets are more your thing the Quayside market on a Sunday sells local produce and crafts.

• Segedunum Roman Fort and Museum

If you have an interest in Roman history a visit to Segedunum Roman Fort and Museum in Wallsend shouldn’t be missed. Here you will discover all about Roman Britain and many other places the Romans have left their mark in Northumberland.

How to get to Newcastle from London by train

Distance from London: 247 miles

Time taken by train: 3 hours 

Leave from: London Kings Cross to Newcastle Central Station

Where to stay in Newcastle

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Newcastle. These are my top selections:

BEST – The Vermont Hotel

Set in a fabulous location this hotel and former County Hall offers river views, bars, restaurants and is within walking distance of the Quayside.

MID -RANGE – Cairn Hotel

Enjoy a stay in one of Newcastle’s most hip and stylish establishments. The hotel’s Thai restaurant is not to be missed.

BUDGET – Motel One Newcastle

The centrally located chain hotel offers affordable luxury and a central location.

The university town of Durham with its historic centre, castle and cathedral (which are also jointly a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is one of England’s most beautiful cities.

An easy day trip from London, especially during the long sunny days of summer, Durham is an excellent destination for those travelling to Edinburgh from London.

Make sure to head up the hill to the cathedral and castle and enjoy beautiful views over the River Wear.

Good to know – If you are driving to Durham do not attempt to park in the city. There are three Park and Ride services on the key routes into Durham. Taking one of these options will avoid the stress of attempting to find a parking spot in the city. You can find out more about Durham’s Park and Ride scheme here.

What to see and do in Durham

• Durham Cathedral

Built in the Norman style with huge stone pillars supporting a stone ceiling construction of the cathedral started in 1093. Home of the Shrine of St Cuthbert the cathedral also contains the remains of two saints – St Cuthbert and St Bede.

Unfortunately, the stained glass which filled the cathedral was destroyed during the Reformation. All is not lost however as the cathedral boasts a stunning 18th century Rose window.

• Durham Castle

Durham Castle is located opposite the cathedral and has, since 1837, belonged to the city’s prestigious university.

The castle was built by the Normans to display the power of William the Conqueror over the rebellious natives who lived in the north of England.

If staying in an English castle is on your bucket list you may be interested to know that you can book a stay at Durham castle . Though not the luxury experience you may dream of the university-style student accommodation is great for the budget-conscious traveller.

• Beamish Museum

If you are spending a few days in Durham or road tripping around the north of England I would highly recommend a visit to Beamish Open Air Museum just outside Durham. The museum gives visitors a taste of life in the North East of England during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Read more about Durham in my complete Durham Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

How to get to Durham from London by train

Distance from London:  234 miles

Time taken by train: 2 hours 50 mins

Leave from: London Kings Cross to Durham

Where to stay in Durham

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Durham. These are my top selections:

BEST – The Kings Lodge Inn

Offering free car parking and located only a short walk from the centre the Kings Lodge Inn offers visitors a comfortable stay with free wi-fi, a cosy bar and a restaurant on site.

MID -RANGE – Radisson Blu Hotel

Centrally located near to the train station the Radisson Blu offers visitors fantastic views of Durham Cathedral.

BUDGET – Durham Castle

Perfect budget accommodation in the heart of the city – spend the night in a castle and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Read more – What to do and see in North East England

Cities to visit in Yorkshire

The beautiful walled city of York located in North Yorkshire is the perfect destination for a city break, weekend getaway or stop off if you are taking the train from London to Edinburgh in Scotland.

With its beautiful Minster, cobbled streets and links to Roman and Viking Britain York has something for all the family. Its medieval city walls offer great views over the city too.

Easily accessible by train it is a compact and walkable city with great restaurants, quirky shops and lots of museums.

What to see and do in York

• York Minster

The Minster which dates back to the 7th century dominates the York skyline. Climb the Central Tower for great views of the city or take a journey through its interactive underground chambers and find out more about the history of York and the Minster.

• National Railway Museum

If you are a fan of trains and train travel a visit to the railway museum in York is highly recommended. Entrance is free and there are some great trains to explore including the Mallard, a Japanese bullet train and Queen Victoria’s favourite saloon. The National Railway Museum in York is perfect to explore on a rainy day!

• The Shambles

Taking a stroll down the cobble-stoned Shambles is like stepping back in time. Dating back to Medieval England the street with its overhanging wooden buildings is filled with quirky and original shops.

• Take afternoon tea at Bettys Tea Rooms! 

You really can’t visit England (or York) without experiencing a traditional afternoon tea. Bettys Tea Rooms are the perfect destination for tea lovers but make sure you book well in advance as they are very popular. Open since 1936 enjoy tea and cakes in the beautiful art deco surroundings.

Read more about Oxford in my complete York Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

How to get to York from London by train

Distance from London: 174 miles

Leave from: London Kings Cross to York

Where to stay in York

There are lots of 11 Best places to stay in York (for all budgets & travel styles) accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets in York. These are my top selections:

BEST – Grays Court

Located between York Minster and the city walls this hotel offers guests the perfect luxury accommodation. Stroll the gardens, enjoy a drink at the bar or a traditional afternoon tea in the hotel’s award-wining restaurant.

MID -RANGE – Hotel Indigo York

Spacious and stylish rooms in the heart of York with excellent amenities including a rainfall shower, mini-fridge and 32-inch flat-screen TV.

BUDGET – The Bar Convent

Offering a historic and quirky stay in York this hotel is ideally located near the station and city centre. An excellent breakfast is included.

Read more – What to do and see in Yorkshire

Cities to visit in the East of England

The university city of Cambridge is located only 55 miles from London which makes it the perfect destination for a day trip.

Dating back to the 13th century the university is recognised as one of the and best in the world. There is a friendly rivalry with the equally famous (and slightly older) Oxford University. Don’t miss the Oxford and Cambridge boat race which has been held along a 4 mile stretch of the River Thames in London since 1829. Both these cities in England are worth a visit if you can fit them into your itinerary.

What to do and see in Cambridge

• Cambridge University

Among the most beautiful of the University’s 31 colleges are King’s College and King’s College Chapel, Queens College and the Mathematical Bridge, Trinity College, Corpus Christi College, St John’s College and Peterhouse College.

I recommend booking a walking tour to find out more about the history of the colleges (and to ensure you don’t miss anything)

• The Fitzwilliam Museum

A must-visit in Cambridge is the famous Fitzwilliam Museum. Containing antiquities from around the globe as well as numerous artworks by Turner, Gainsborough, Rubens, Picasso amongst others admission to the museum is free.

• Take a punt along the River Cam 

The perfect activity for an English summer’s day! A punt is a flat bottomed boat that is propelled by pushing a pole against the river bed. Book a tour and relax and enjoy the sights of Cambridge from the River Cam.

Read more about Oxford in my complete Cambridge Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

How to get to Cambridge from London

Distance from London: 55 miles

Time taken by train: 50 mins to 1 hour 50 depending on the route

Leave from: London St Pancras International to Cambridge is the quickest route

Where to stay in Cambridge

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Cambridge. These are my top selections:

BEST – University Arms

Situated in the heart of Cambridge the University Arms offers guests top-notch hospitality. Excellent food and drink are on offer and free WiFi is available for guests.

MID -RANGE – Gonville Hotel

Overlooking Parker’s Piece (famous as the birthplace of modern football) the Gonville Hotel is a 4* hotel with exceptional service and amenities. Enjoy the complimentary bike hire and take a cycle tour of the city.

BUDGET – Leverton House

Located just outside Cambridge Leverton House offers guests free parking, WiFi and an excellent breakfast.

Cities to visit in South West England

The beautiful city of Bath is one of the most popular tourist destinations and cities to visit in England and is worth visiting at any time of year.

With its stunning architecture, quintessentially English character and Roman legacy (don’t miss the Ancient Roman baths) plan a few days to fully explore this stunning city. It is also an excellent base for exploring one of England’s most beautiful areas – the Cotswolds.

What to see and do in Bath

There are lots of places to visit and things to do and see in Bath. Here are my top choices – for more itinerary suggestions read my guide to places to visit in Bath.

• The Roman Baths

Built over 2000 years ago the Roman Baths attract over 1.2 million visitors a year.

Plan at least 2 hours to explore the Roman Temple, Bath House, Sacred Spring and museum. Head to the Grand Pump Room for a refreshment break or afternoon tea.

• Admire the Royal Crescent

The Royal Crescent is a row of 30 houses laid out in a crescent shape. Built between 1767 and 1774 they are a beautiful example of Georgian architecture.

Take a selfie at the crescent then head over to the park for ice cream and a stroll in the beautiful gardens.

• Pulteney Bridge

Dating back to 1774 the bridge spans the River Avon. The bridge is one of only 4 in the world with shops across both spans. As well as housing many independent shops there are also a variety of restaurants located on the bridge.

How to travel to Bath from London

Distance from London: 94 miles / 152 km

Time taken by train: 2 hours 28

Leave from:  London Paddington

Where to stay in Bath

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Bath . Bath is one of the most popular cities in England for visitors from overseas so make sure to book well in advance especially in the summer. These are my top selections:

BEST – The Gainsborough Bath Spa

Located only 100 meters from Bath Abbey and accessing heated thermal waters in its spa the Gainsborough is a fabulous luxury hotel offering visitors the perfect stay in Bath.

MID -RANGE – The Bird

Boutique hotel offering stylish and quirky accommodation in the centre of Bath.

BUDGET – Z Hotel Bath

Modern centrally located budget hotel with excellent facilities and stylish decor.

Read more about Bath in my complete Bath Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

A cultural hub offering visitors great shopping, live music, wining and dining opportunities Bristol is the largest city in South West England.

Bath is only 12 miles to the east of Bristol and 120 miles west of London. Street artist Banksy is from Bristol and works can be found around the city.

If you have an interest in history the name Isambard Kingdom Brunel may be familiar. The Clifton Suspension Bridge and Brunel’s SS Great Britain were both created by the genius Victorian engineer and are monuments to his talent.

What to see and do in Bristol

• Clifton Suspension Bridge

Designed by Brunel this 150-year-old suspension bridge is a toll bridge linking Clifton in Bristol with Leigh Woods in North Somerset.  There are free tours available at 3 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays between Easter and October for those of you with an interest in engineering!

• Bristol Shopping Quarter

For serious shoppers, the Bristol Shopping Quarte r is home to hundreds of shops, restaurants, cafes and attractions.

• Discover Bristol’s street art

Take a self-guided walking tour of Bristol and discover street artist Banksy’s most famous local works.

Read more about Bristol in my complete Bristol Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

How to travel to Bristol from London

Distance from London: 104 miles / 167 km

Time taken by train: 1 h 49

Leave from: London Paddington

Where to stay in Bristol

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Bristol. These are my top selections:

BEST – Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel

Located next to Bristol Cathedral and the historic waterfront the Royal Hotel offers guests a comfortable stay in a beautiful Victorian setting.

MID -RANGE – Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City

Perfectly located next to the main shopping area and Bristol Temple Meads train station the Hilton Garden Inn offers guests free WiFi, a cosy lounge bar and restaurant options.

BUDGET – Mercure Bristol Grand Hote l

Good location in the heart of Bristol with ensuite rooms, free WiFi and parking available (for a daily charge)

The compact and walkable city of Oxford is home to one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities.

The 38 colleges which comprise Oxford University offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into English traditions and a way of life dating back hundreds of years. Nicknamed the ‘City of Dreaming Spires” the city is the perfect day trip destination from London.

What to see and do in Oxford

• Explore Oxford University

Founded in the 13th century Oxford University’s alumni include international heads of state including numerous British Prime Ministers,  Nobel prize winners, famous authors, and many well-known actors.

Wander the colleges and soak in the scholarly atmosphere of this famous seat of learning. Don’t miss the Bodleian Library and Redcliffe Camera at the university.

• The Covered Market 

Opened in 1774 browse the market’s many shops and stalls before enjoying a refreshment break in one of the many eateries.

• Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is located only 20 minutes from the city of Oxford. The present home of the Duke of Marlborough Blenheim is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Read more about Oxford in my complete Oxford Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

How to travel to Oxford from London

Distance from London: 52 miles / 83 km

Time taken by train: 1 hour

Leave from: London Paddington/ London Marylebone

Where to stay in Oxford

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Oxford. These are my top selections:

BEST – Old Parsonage Hotel

Dating back to 1660 this boutique hotel in the centre of Oxford offers outstanding accommodation for guests.

MID -RANGE – Head of the River

Great views of the river and an excellent hearty breakfast make this the perfect choice for visitors looking for a more traditional stay in Oxford.

BUDGET – Heather House Bed and Breakfast

With off road parking, the choice of a continental or full English breakfast this cosy and friendly B&B is the perfect budget option.

Read more – What to do and see in South West England

Cities to visit in South East England

Located on the south coast of England is the charming seaside city of Brighton.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the city was a popular destination for wealthy Londoners (including King George IV during his time as Prince Regent)

Boasting stunning Regency architecture, beautiful parks and a laid-back atmosphere Brighton is the perfect weekend destination or day trip from London.

Read more about Brighton in my complete Brighton Travel Planning Guide which includes all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

What to see and do in Brighton

• The Brighton Pavilion

The opulently decorated Brighton Pavilion is a must-visit. Built by King George IV when he was Prince Regent (at enormous expense to the country) you will discover a home filled to the brim with exquisite furnishings.

• Brighton Palace Pier

Brighton’s famous pier was opened in 1899. It is a Grade II listed structure and an iconic symbol of the city.

Packed with restaurants, tea rooms, pubs and shops these narrow alleyways are a shopper’s paradise.

How to travel to Brighton from London

Distance from London: 47 miles (75 km)

Time taken by train: 1 hour 22

Leave from: London Blackfriars/ London Victoria

Where to stay in Brighton

There are lots of options to suit all tastes and budgets in Brighton. These are my top selections:

BEST – The Grand Brighton

Relax with views overlooking the sea at the sumptuous Renaissance style iconic Grand Hotel in Brighton. With high-quality furnishings, free WiFi and a stylish cocktail bar on offer this is the perfect accommodation for that special stay in Brighton.

MID -RANGE – The Charm Brighton Boutique Hotel and Spa

A luxury, grade II boutique hotel offering guests comfortable and elegantly furnished rooms.

BUDGET – Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront

An excellent budget option the Jurys Inn is well located and is near pubs, bars and restaurants and across the road from the beach.

Read more – What to do and see in South East England

No list of the best cities to visit in England would be complete without including the capital!

If London is your first UK destination you will find that a few days may not be enough to see and do everything you want. I recommend prioritising your must-sees and building your itinerary from there – you can find ideas to help you in my London Travel Planning Guide .

What to see and do in London

There is far too much to do and see in London to include in this short paragraph but here are a few ideas for your London bucket list:

• Love Botanical Gardens? Head to Kew Gardens
• Love history? Head to the Tower of London
• Love the Royal Family? Head to Buckingham Palace
• Love shopping? Head to Oxford Street, Covent Garden and Harrods
• Love museums? Head to some of the fabulous free museums such as the British Museum or the Natural History Museum
• Love art? Head to the Tate Modern
• Love markets? Head to Borough Market
• Love Harry Potter? Head to Leadenhall Market (Diagon Alley) and Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross Station. There are also lots of Harry Potter themed tours available or take a trip to Harry Potter Studios (an hour from London)

You can find more about planning your visit to London in my London Travel Planning Guide here

If you are planning to visit these cities in England by train don’t miss our comprehensive guid e to train travel or our pick of the top 10 rail journeys to take across the UK.

Other cities to visit which made the shortlist include

If you have questions why not join my free UK travel planning group on Facebook – it is a great place to chat and find out more about what there is to see and do in the UK as well as providing practical advice and tips to help you make the most of your trip.

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The best cities in the UK: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

By Condé Nast Traveller

The survey for the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards is open, vote now for your favourite places, hotels, airports, cruise lines, travel fixers and more.

What's your favourite city in the UK? In 2023, we asked our readers just that – and your responses rank the top 10 of the UK's 51 cities in some surprising ways. There are cities from all four devolved nations represented in this list, with a new city in the top spot and two new additions of Brighton and Dundee.

Our annual Reader's Choice Awards are the biggest and most influential in the business, shining a light on the best places around the world. In collaboration with our sister title in the USA, we can now reveal the urban destinations that scored the highest marks when it comes to nightlife, restaurants and friendliness. For more inspiration, see our pick of the best places to visit in the UK .

These are the best cities in the UK, according to the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards . The scores below are percentages representing overall average levels of satisfaction.

10. Brighton. Score 80.22

This bohemian beach city has it all: a wealth of enticing restaurants , one of the UK's best LGBTQ+ scenes and – most importantly for any seaside destination – truly excellent fish and chips .

Where to stay: Bed down in elegant Regency Square in rooms filled with beautiful artworks at Artist Residence . Or opt for this sweet Airbnb in the historic Lanes . See more hotels in Brighton .

9. Dundee. Score 81.11

With its large-scale waterfront regeneration, including the architecturally impressive V&A Museum, Dundee is a thriving cultural hotspot.

Where to stay: Set in a former textile mill, Hotel Indigo has industrial interiors, a buzzy bar and is well located for exploring.

8. Belfast. Score 83.07

The Northern Irish capital is famous for being birthplace to the RMS Titanic – but also for its vibrant culture and art scene and welcoming locals, set against a backdrop of handsome cobbled streets and dapper Edwardian buildings. Check out our local's guide to Belfast to find out more.

Where to stay: At The Harrison , set in Victorian merchants' residences, given a colourful, light-hearted makeover. The hotel is close to some of the city's best cultural highlights, too. For more ideas, read our guide to the best hotels in Belfast .

7. Glasgow. Score 83.27

This buzzy Scottish city has made the list for the sixth year in a row. Read our feature on the best things to do in Glasgow to find out why, or tap into the Glaswegian food scene .

Where to stay: See our round-up of the best Airbnbs in Glasgow from which to base yourself – including this handsome studio in a classic townhouse that sleeps two.

6. Liverpool. Score 83.29

Liverpool comes in sixth place on our list this year, up a spot from last year. The once-gritty city is now a capital of cool, where vintage shops, art galleries and art venues inject a creative atmosphere into the streets – see our guide to things to do in Liverpool for ideas on how to spend a visit here.

Where to stay:

Book a room at Titanic Hotel Liverpool , converted from a soaring, cavernous former warehouse.

5. Cambridge. Score 84.16

History is woven into the medieval lanes and cloistered colleges of this free-wheeling university town. But now a perky batch of new arrivals are adding cocktail and coffee culture to the equation. Before your visit, see our pick of the best things to do in Cambridge .

Where to stay: The smartest choice in town is The University Arms , a coaching inn that’s been artfully reimagined.

4. Manchester. Score 85.36

Vibrant Manchester is packed with excellent chefs, music and culture. Grand libraries, street art, record shops and galleries are among the best things to do in the city , while excellent restaurants in Manchester range from Korean cooking to donut shops via Spanish, Italian, Vietnamese and Indian cuisine. There's a thriving LGBTQ+ scene in Manchester , too.

Where to stay: Whitworth Locke comprises apartments painted in dreamy pastels in an old cotton mill. See more of the best hotels in Manchester .

3. Edinburgh. Score 86.38

Edinburgh, famed for its festival and varied architecture, has come third in our list of the best cities in the UK. For first-time visitors, see our Edinburgh travel guide and the best things to do in the Scottish capital . In the last few years the city has developed into a foodie hotspot – these are the best restaurants in Edinburgh .

Where to stay: Gleneagles Townhouse is the most exciting newcomer on the scene. For a private stay, this loft Airbnb overlooks the city's most famous street. For more options, see our pick of the best Edinburgh hotels and the best Airbnbs in Edinburgh .

Sophie Heawood

Arati Menon

Lauren Burvill

CNT Editors

2. London. Score 86.44

London is not just a major city but a thriving hub of 32 boroughs, each with their own, distinct character, from hip Dalston to colourful Notting Hill and buzzing Soho . Stay up to date with the latest happenings via our weekly roundup of the best  things to do in London this weekend , as well as our list of the best restaurants in London  (even better, sign up to our weekly newsletter on London's hottest restaurants right now too).

Where to stay: For something smart and classic, you can't get much better than Claridge's , in splashy Mayfair . For a cooler, more casual stay, look further East to One Hundred Shoreditch , which boasts a gorgeous rooftop bar. For more, see our edit of the best London hotels .

1. Cardiff. Score 86.84

The playful Welsh capital takes the top spot for 2023 with its exciting independent restaurants, buzzy bars and up-and-coming neighbourhoods. Take a bite into the cool food scene and discover the unmissable places to visit with our guide to the best things to do in Cardiff .

Where to stay: Take over an Airbnb in the city to live like a local and explore the Welsh capital at your own pace.

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• England , United Kingdom

If you’re planning a trip to England in the upcoming year or need some inspiration on what places and destinations to visit, I’ve got just the thing for you! This list of 10 outstanding places to visit in England (outside of London) will blow your mind and help you create the ultimate trip to this wondrous little country. Keep reading and make sure to add these England destinations to your UK Bucket List!

Psst, this post contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

Did you know the United Kingdom is ranked as the 10th most visited country in the world and the 6th most visited country in Europe? Or that 17 of the UK’s 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites fall within England?

How crazy is that?

With so many historic sites, as well as the plethora of tourists flocking here every year, you can bet that England has a whole lotta awesome sites, attractions, and destinations for travelers to add to their bucket list!

To help you get a just a teensy taste of what this country has to offer in terms of travel, take a look at these 10 cool places to visit in England outside of London that will surely blow you away.

Table of Contents

10 OUTSTANDING PLACES TO VISIT IN ENGLAND

White cliffs of dover.

The magnificent and gorgeous White Cliffs of Dover were one of the first England tourist attractions I visited when exploring the UK for the first time! And holy smokes, they are absolutely stunning.

One of the most iconic places to visit in England, the White Cliffs of Dover certainly live up to the name.

They are most definitely towering cliffs that will make your heart skip a beat and they are most definitely white — like sparkling, pristine white that’ll hurt your eyes in the bright sunlight!

Not to mention, the views from the White Cliffs of Dover are breathtaking. Endless views of the turquoise blue sea, gentle (or often turbulent) waves crashing on the beautiful rocky shores, and wonderful walks that hug the cliffside and offer a plethora of wildlife.

Sounds amazing, right? I sure think so!

Without a doubt, the White Cliffs of Dover are one of the most fun things to do in England and should be a must on any trip here! Plus, if you’re already in London, this England destination is an easy day trip.

Dartmoor National Park

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in England for nature-lovers, then make sure to add Dartmoor National Park to your UK must-visit list!

It’s stunning landscape features rolling moors, adorable ponies roaming the green grass, historic ruins of long-abandoned villages, rocky tors dotting the hills, and bubbling creeks weaving their way between the moors.

Without a doubt it my mind, Dartmoor National Park, which is located in the picturesque county of Devon, is one of my favorite England destinations to go to when in need of an relaxing, nature-filled getaway !

Not only is the hiking here phenomenal, especially for beginner hikers who aren’t in the best shape, Dartmoor National Park is also great for history-hunters, as Dartmoor houses the largest concentration of Bronze Age ruins in England. How freakin’ cool is that?!

The Historic City of Chester

Who else is fascinated by Roman history and how vast the Roman Empire was? Because if you find the romans as interesting as I do, then you will no doubt love Chester just as much as me!

Located in Northwest England, Chester is hands down one of the most interesting British cities because of its captivating history and unique attractions. (Not to mention, delicious vegan food !)

According to historians, Chester was founded by the Romans around 79 AD , which is why you’ll find the city has the most complete set of Roman walls and the largest Roman Amphitheater ever found in Britain! Okay, but seriously… how wild is that?

And let’s not forget the iconic Chester Rows! Which are medieval two-tier buildings with an open, yet covered walkway that have rows of shops and stores housing many local Chester businesses.

Sounds strange, right?

Well, in fact, the Rows are unique to Chester and you won’t find this type of building anywhere else in the world! To this day, historians aren’t sure why they were built this way.

The Rows, as well as the vast Roman Walls and Roman history, are why Chester is one of the most magical places to visit in England!

For more info on the best things to do in Chester (and why it should be on your England Bucket List!), check out this post .

Coastal Towns of Cornwall

Located in the South West of England, Cornwall is a small county that features everything from gorgeous views of the sparkling blue sea and beautiful beaches just begging to be sunbathed on to quaint seaside villages perfect for exploring and endless outdoor activities, such as surfing and hiking.

As one of the most beautiful places to visit in England, it’s no surprise that Cornwall is a favorite seaside destination for pretty much the whole of Britain.

Every summer, locals flock to this part of the country to take advantage of its sublime beaches, warm weather, and all-around fun summertime activities.

However, Cornwall is amazing to visit anytime of the year! I visited in March and while it was a bit chilly (not to mention many local shops were closed due to it being offseason), it was still fantastic.

I personally loved the picturesque coastal towns and breathtaking seaside views! Most memorable was the adorable little seaside village of Polperro , which you absolutely must check out when in Cornwall.

Loving this post so far on outstanding places to visit in England? Don’t forget to check out my other post on the 10 best places to visit in Wales, UK !

Yorkshire Dales National Park

Jaw-dropping views of lush green hills? Check . Never-ending hikes and walks? Check . Countless waterfalls cascading down towering cliffs? Check . Nights filled with crystal clear skies and stupendous stargazing? Check . And an abundance of totes adorable villages dotted throughout the national park? Double check!

The Yorkshire Dales is one of my favorite places to escape the hustle and bustle of English cities and blissfully reconnect with nature and the great outdoors!

In fact, the Yorkshire Dales National Park, as well as the North York Moors National Park, was recently named an international dark sky reserves! Combined these two national parks create the largest dark sky area in the UK and one of the biggest in Europe. How amazing is that?

So if you’re someone who absolutely adores counting shooting stars and laying under a luminous milky way, the Yorkshire Dales should absolutely be on your list of places to visit in England!

The Cotswolds

If picture-perfect villages with quaint cottages, friendly locals, cobblestone roads, delicious food, and even the occasional bubbling brook running through the village center isn’t enough to get you to visit the Cotswolds, then I don’t know what is!

Google any “best places to visit in England” list and you will no doubt find the Cotswolds hanging around somewhere near the top… and with good reason!

The Cotswolds is the largest AONB (Area of Outstanding Beauty) in the country and is quintessentially England with its unique beauty, idyllic natural landscapes, thatched homes, and breathtaking scenes.

One of the best tourist destinations in England, The Cotswolds is the perfect place for a slow-paced getaway surrounded by the rolling green hills of the UK!

Not to mention, the Cotswolds is an easy peasy day trip from London if you’re looking to get away from the city and experience a tranquil, relaxing environment!

Lake District National Park

If you’re an outdoor lover, nature enthusiast, or hiking fanatic, then the Lake District National Park should absolutely be on your list of places to go in England — especially during the summer when the sun is blazing or in the fall when the landscape lights up with autumn colors!

(Psst, if you try to avoid the crowds, the Lake District is also gorgeous in the winter! It’s looks pristine with a fresh blanket of snow and the mountains brilliantly reflecting the sunlight.)

This incredible England destination is packed with stunning views of endless mountains , phenomenal hikes that’ll make your heart skip a beat (like hiking Blencathra via sharp edge !), an abundance of glistening lakes, cozy hotels and B&Bs, and so much more.

Whether you want to paddleboard across Lake Windermere, climb up to the top of Scafell Pike (the tallest mountain in England!), discover the mysterious Castlerigg Stone Circle , or explore one of the many towns in this national park, the Lake District has what you’re looking for!

Roman City of Bath

“Oh! Who can ever be tired of Bath?”  asks  a young Catherine Morland the Jane Austen novel, Northanger Abbey , which was written in 1803 and mainly took place in the English city of Bath.

No doubt, I don’t think any visitor could tire of Bath.

This city is something else… with its stunning Georgian architecture, beautiful buildings made out of light golden stone, historic Roman Baths and hot springs that have been exceptionally preserved, wondrous Bath Abbey and its unique stories, cobblestoned roads that inspired Jane Austen, and Bath’s glorious homes that ooze lavishness and riches!

While I only had a few hours to see and explore the best of Bath , this city effortlessly stole my heart and demanded me to fall madly in love with it! To which, of course, I did not deny.

If you’re interested in both Roman and English history, gorgeous architecture, and some of the best things to do in England, I highly recommend stopping in Bath — even if only for a short day or two!

Interested in expanding your trip in England by jumping the border into Scotland? Take look at this post on the 15 crazy awesome places to visit in Scotland !

The Hills of Northumberland

Northumberland is a county in the very far north of the country and is no doubt one of the most underrated, lesser-known places to visit in England.

While tourists don’t necessary flock here every year like they do to Cornwall or London, Northumberland has so much to offer.

From ancient ruins and beautiful beaches to jaw-dropping castles (Alnwick Castle is a Harry Potter filming site in England!) and a coast dotted with islands, this area of England has a rich and captivating heritage that is well worth your time.

Personally, I loved visiting the beaches near Bamburgh Castle, which is a seriously impressing fortress perched up above the Northumberland Coast overlooking the North Sea and Farne Islands.

However, if you aren’t into castles or beaches, there is a plethora of other outdoor activities to do, as well as quaint seaside villages to visit!

If you’re itching to get away from the crowds (especially if you’re trip includes a stop to London) and experience one of the most relaxing places to visit in England, I suggest renting a car ( click here for my fav car rental site ) and getting yourself to Northumberland for a magical, crowd-free getaway!

Lively City of Liverpool

Liverpool is hands down one of the best cities in England to visit and explore! Heck, I’d go as far to say it’s one of the best cities in the UK. That’s right — I went there. Suck it, Manchester and London !

(Psst, cheeky side note — Edinburgh is one of the best cities and places to visit in Scotland !)

Not too far away from the ancient Roman city of Chester, Liverpool is known for its historic docks, rockin’ pubs and clubs where The Beatles used to play, dark past with slavery, loads of fantastic museums, charming mix of many different cultures, and endless food scenes!

Without a doubt, Liverpool is one of my absolute favorite cities for a day out in England! It’s not too big, which means you can see a lot of it in one day, but it’s not too small that it feels underwhelming or boring.

On the contrary, there is so many amazing things to do in Liverpool! Like exploring The Albert Dock, visiting the Liverpool Cathedral (aka the largest cathedral in Britain !), having a nice pint at Penny Lane in a Beatles-themed pub, visiting its bombed out church, and learning about Liverpool’s captivating history at one of its museums, such as the International Slavery Museum.

With these 10 outstanding places to visit in England (other than London, of course!), you surely won’t be bored on your future trip to the UK!

In my very biased opinion, I would highly recommend shuffling the glorious city of Chester to the top of your must-visit England list if you’re wanting to visit beautiful UK cities.

And for nature-lovers or those who want to experience the great outdoors?

Definitely check out either the Lake District or Yorkshire Dales National Parks! They’re not too far away from each other so if you rent a car (which I would recommend if possible) you can easily visit both if you only have a few days.

So tell me, which one of these best places to visit in England do you dream of checking out first?! Or have you visited any of these England points of interest before? Let me know in the comments below!

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

• Hiking Blencathra via Sharp Edge in the Lake District – England, UK
• 10 best places to visit in Wales, UK (#7 is a must!)
• 3 fantastic, lesser-known alternatives for popular UK destinations
• Magical must-see Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh (don’t miss #3!)
• Road tripping through southern England and the often forgotten country of Wales

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The ultimate 7-day itinerary for Wales, UK

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hello wanderful you, Exploring the White Cliffs of Dover on foot is an unforgettable experience. Thank you for suggesting it.

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Best Places to Visit in England (Besides London)

If you’re looking for a country that’s rich in both history and culture, than look no further than England. London is not the only place that can capture visitors’ interest, and this list of the places to visit in England will give you many ideas of where to go on your next trip! This is a country steeped in history and this is reflected in its various regions. From the white chalk cliffs in Dorset that go back to the Triassic period to the beautiful national parks for all types of adventurers, there is surely something for everyone. As you adventure to the west of the country, you will find the upmarket holiday destination Cornwall and Devon which attracts over 4 million visitors a year. Let’s start exploring some of best places to visit in England , and be sure to stick around to the end of the video, where we will mention the most beautiful destination that you must add to your itinerary!

If you are looking for a city that offers an authentic English experience, be sure to visit the UNESCO world heritage city of Canterbury. Located just an hour from London, this famous place should be at the top of your England itinerary. It’s an enchanting place and home of the grand Canterbury cathedral, built in 597 A.D. It’s cobblestone streets and timber framed houses will have you wanting to explore all day long. The Romanesque elements of the buildings and the stained glass church windows warp you back to a time reminiscent of the Romans and the Normans. It truly is a history lovers paradise.

If you are looking for restaurants and pubs to stop by while in the city, there are many to choose from and include a wide variety of cuisines to satisfy any appetite. For a classic English experience, be sure to head to Tiny Tim’s Tea Room where they offer high tea. This is an wonderful place for food lovers that offer you the chance to try local pastries. Don’t forget to try a famous English scone!

Cornwall and Devon

What makes England such a beautiful country is the diversity of attractions, from ancient cities and beautiful nature parks. It contains over 31 world heritage sites and 34 registered areas of natural beauty. To see this beauty in it’s entirety you must head to the country’s South West region where you will find Cornwall and Devon. Known for it’s dramatic white chalk cliffs and beautiful beaches, it’s a region that doesn’t disappoint. It has something for every type of traveler. Head to the southernmost point of England and you will find Lizards point, a place that looks out over the English channel. Take time to relax and take in the beautiful scenery.

On your way through this epic part of England you will find that you are spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do. Called the Cornish riviera, this area is the  gastronomic hub of England and home to many famous restaurants and bars. Sample the local cuisine and get your hands on a Cornish pasty and a good old fish and chips. The north coast is lined with some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Be sure to stop by Newquay, a surfers paradise. If fine dining is your thing, then head to Padstow, home to some elegant and famous restaurants providing the perfect grub for your time by the sea.

Deemed one of the most scenic places in England, the Cotswolds are a must-see to add to your travel itinerary. It’s rolling hills and picturesque villages, surrounded by areas of natural beauty and wooded forests, looks like something out of a fairytale. This region encompasses some famous cities, most notably, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and Wiltshire.

To see a particularly pretty village, head to Castle Combe. Visit the small, traditional pub and wander through the cobblestone streets. It’s long been used as a popular village for shooting movies such as Bridgerton and War Horse. If you’re a movie buff or simply would love to explore the many idyllic villages, then be sure to head to the Cotswolds.

Up next we have Cambridge, a legendary English institution known for the university and architecture. You can explore the university grounds and go punting through the winding rivers of the city. What is punting? Well, it’s a traditional English activity where you sit on a boat, the punt, and someone, the punter, uses a rather large pole that pushes against the river bed to take you on a relaxing journey down the river. This is one of the best ways to see this beautiful city. It’s also a unique experience you aren’t likely to get in other parts of the world. 

Which English location stands out to you the most so far? If you’ve seen something that you may want to add to your next trip, give this video a like. Don’t forget to subscribe to ViewCation for more travel content and tips for your next trip!

There are actually over 4000 islands in the British Isles, and 210 of them are inhabited. One of those beautiful islands is Guernsey. This is one of the channel islands near the French coast. It’s known for beach resorts like Cabo bay and has wonderful scenery made up of white chalk cliffs. This is an an ideal way to spend some time soaking up British culture when you’re tired on the big cities. You can explore the island by car or local bus where you can discover some of the many forts located on the island. Looking to step off the beaten path and see one of the treasures of England? Then be sure to head over to the island of Guernsey.

Next up, we have a city than can be compared to London in many ways. However, it has it’s own independent rich culture and history. This city was at the heart of the industrial revolution, and its canal systems date back to the 18 th century. You can learn more about this history by visiting some of the city’s many museums. It’s a charming city with historical pubs, theaters and parks.

If you like your coffee, be sure to go on a coffee crawl throughout the city. This would be a great way to have a sneak peak at all of the beautiful cafes and get a sense for the coffee scene here. Another great thing about Manchester is that it’s brimming with markets all year round, so be sure to be on the look out for the latest offerings.

Bath is place with fascinating history and something to do all year round. Stroll through the roman city and explore it’s roman built baths. It’s the largest city in the county of Somerset and is surrounded by beautiful nature reserves. It’s also the southern point of the the Cotswolds. Learn about Bath’s history in the museums and enjoy getting lost down the cobblestone streets. It’s elegant Georgian architecture and buzzing food scene will leave you wanting more time here. Explore by foot and find yourself passing the canals and quaint shops. Many of the houses in bath are shaped in a beautiful crescent. The most famous is the royal crescent, a row of 30 terraced houses.

Located in the south east of England, Brighton is a famous seaside city with a breathtaking coastline made up of pavilions and beaches. Head to the Lanes, which is specific area in the city known for it’s vintage shops and winding streets. Brighton is a trendy city oozing with culture and vibrancy. It is home to many festivals all year round, and rightly so, with it’s cool and relaxed atmosphere. The narrow streets are full of independent cafe’s and bars. The record stores, vintage clothing stores, bookshops and many other quirky shops make up the wonderful character of Brighton.

There’s no better way to soak up some British culture by spending time by the seaside. Grab a pint and fish n chips at one of the many places by the water. If you are looking to be adventurous, sign up for a walking tour and get to know the city from a locals perspective.  

The Lake District

Finally, it wouldn’t be right to have a list of the best things to do in England without including the most famous national park. Located in the region of Cumbria, this popular vacation destination is known for its many lakes and mountain landscapes. Here you can find the highest point in England, Scaffel Pike, standing tall at 978m (3208 feet). If you are hiker or love outdoor activities, then this is a nature lovers paradise. The terrain is the breathtaking home to all types of animals, so be sure to keep an eye out.

Lake Windermere is a prime example of the picturesque beauty of the lake district. You can climb, cycle and even Segway your way around. This area may be the best way to soak up all the natural beauty that England has to offer.

Where would you like to go on your next trip to England ? Would you rather explore England’s natural beauty in the Lakes District or walk down the cobblestone streets of Cambridge? Let us know in the comments below. And if you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like and subscribe for more ViewCation content and travel tips!

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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8 best cities to visit in England and what you can do in each

Planning a trip to England ? Don’t just dip your toes into London . While the English capital is certainly a treat to explore, England has so much more to offer. From wild moors to football stadiums, England’s cities boast a wide variety of landscapes, attractions, and cultural experiences. We’ve narrowed down a list of eight top cities in England that you should add to your itinerary.

1. Brighton

Described as the U.K.’s hippest city, Brighto n is a seaside resort on the south coast of England. The pebbled Brighton Beach may deter some sunbathers, but there’s plenty to do at Brighton Palace Pier , from amusement rides to restaurants. Join a walking tour to explore the rest of the city, from the quirky Royal Pavilion to the eclectic independent shops in The Lanes and North Laine . This food tour will introduce you to more hidden gems and local hotspots.

When to visit: May to September for warmer and drier weather. Avoid July and August, when it’s peak tourist season.

Getting here: Traveling by train is usually the fastest way to get to Brighton from London. If you’re flying, Gatwick Airport is a 20-minute train journey from Brighton Railway Station .

Where to stay:

• Beachside relaxation: A Room With A View
• City living: Ibis Brighton City Center

2. Manchester

Located in northwest England, Manchester is a city of many talents. Not only is it the world’s first industrial city , but Manchester is also home to a thriving arts and music scene as well as two major English football teams. Immerse yourself in Manchester’s culture on this walking tour , or learn more about the city’s long history through its food . Football fans, don’t miss out on the National Football Museum and the Manchester City Stadium Tour at Etihad Stadium . The John Rylands Library is also worth a visit—its stunning Gothic architecture will make you feel like you’re in Hogwarts.

When to visit: June to August for festivals and fine weather; September to December for football season.

Getting here: Land in Manchester International Airport , or take the train from London to Manchester Piccadilly or Victoria .

• Sophisticated boutique hotel: Dakota Manchester
• Fully-equipped apartments: Roomzzz Aparthotel Manchester Victoria

Bristol is a quirky port city situated on the River Avon with a hilly landscape. It was a key city during the Industrial Revolution when engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel built and designed the Great Western Railway, the world’s first great ocean liner , and the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol. Today, you can still visit many of these Victorian-era landmarks and learn more about the historical figures who put Bristol on the map. Sail around the Bristol Harbor on a ferry boat , enjoy a night of magic and comedy at Smoke & Mirrors , or soar over the countryside on a hot air balloon —you’ll quickly understand why Bristol has been named one of the best places to live in the U.K.

When to visit: Late spring and early fall for comfortable weather.

Getting here: Bristol Temple Meads is the largest rail hub in west England, and Bristol Airport welcomes flights across Europe.

• Quayside views: The Bristol
• Victorian glamor: Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel

History buffs might know York as the ancient Roman city of Eboracum. Today, York is one of the most popular cities in England, with people all over the world traveling here to admire its medieval buildings. Stroll through York’s historic streets with a guide or embark on a hop-on hop-off bus tour to conveniently explore sights like York Minster , Shambles , and the York City Walls . For an alternative history of York, this award-winning tou r will regale you with tales of witches, queens, and murderers.

When to visit: York sees maximum sunshine from May through July. If you can put up with random cold snaps, the city is also exceptionally stunning in spring.

Getting here: The closest international airport is Leeds Bradford International Airport, but it’s far more convenient to travel from Manchester Airport via the TransPennine Express.

• Five-star historic hotel: The Grand
• Affordable bed and breakfast: B+B York

Nestled on the River Wear , Durham is a charming small city in northeast England. Discover how Durham rose to spiritual prominence and visit Durham Cathedral , which has been a center of pilgrimage for close to a thousand years. This self-guided audio tour is also an easy and convenient way to explore Durham’s highlights and history. Durham Castle , built by William the Conqueror, served as a strategic stronghold to defend England from Scottish armies. Today, the castle is home to Durham University, the third-oldest university in England.

When to visit: Temperatures in Durham are cold for most of the year, so it’s best to visit between June and September when it’s comfortably warm.

Getting here: Durham station is situated on the East Coast Main Line, while Newcastle Airport is 30 minutes away from Durham.

• Romantic neighborhood: Hotel Indigo Durham
• Buzzing university town: Premier Inn Hotel Durham City Centre (Walkergate)

With natural landscapes and historic architecture, Dover is one of the most scenic cities in England. Known as the “key to England,” Dover Castle was founded in the 11th century and has stood tall through multiple wars. Explore the ferry port on a minibus tour , take a breezy walk along St Margaret’s Bay Beach , and hike the magnificent White Cliffs of Dover , where you can spot the iconic South Foreland Lighthouse and discover the cliffs’ hidden tunnels .

When to visit: Avoid autumn and winter, when rain and wind will prevent you from venturing outdoors.

Getting here: Direct trains lead from London to Dover in just 55 minutes, and cruise ships and ferries dock at the Port of Dover.

• Cozy bed and breakfast: Bleriot’s
• Sea views: Best Western Plus Dover Marina Hotel & Spa

7. Liverpool

“ Penny Lane is in my ears and in my eyes…” In the 1960s, the Beatles catapulted Liverpool into international fame. Today, visitors can walk in the Fab Four’s footsteps , pose for a picture by their iconic statue , and dive into the story of the band’s rise to fame . This award-winning hop-on hop-off bus tour will also take you to sights like Strawberry Field and John Lennon’s childhood home . But there’s more to Liverpool than just the Beatles. Learn about the city’s vast history on a guided tour around Royal Albert Dock , admire the grand Liverpool Cathedral , and join the LFC stadium tour of Anfield Stadium .

When to visit: January for snow; April to August for festivals and warm weather.

Getting here: Liverpool’s main station is Lime Street station . Cruises dock at the Port of Liverpool , and the Liverpool John Lennon Airport connects the city to the rest of Europe.

• By the docks: Staybridge Suites
• Surrounded by bars and restaurants: The Resident

Whether you’re on a solo trip or traveling with family , you’ll never feel bored in London. The biggest and most populous city in England, London is a diverse metropolis that celebrates its past while racing towards the future.

Where else can you explore a 1000-year fortress and climb a skyscraper all on the same day? And if you ever feel like getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city, there are plenty of other sights in the vicinity . You can even see Windsor Castle , Stonehenge , and Oxford in a single day on this guided tour .

When to visit: Check out our guide to the best times to visit London and plan your itinerary around these annual events .

Getting here: Most international flights land at Heathrow Airport or Gatwick Airport . London is also the center of the National Rail network, connecting to the rest of England via King’s Cross and Euston .

• Unparalleled luxury: Hotel 41
• Prime location: The Resident Covent Garden
• Discover the 6 best neighborhoods to stay in London

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7 Places to Visit in England Besides London

When I’m backpacking I always meet people who are travelling to London, but there is so much more to England than the nation’s capital. We may be a tiny and rather compact country but often travellers seem to think that England is London.

On several occasions friends of mine from other countries have said “I’m in London, fancy meeting up for a drink?” “Errr no I live in Manchester” is my response. Whilst the weather may not always be up to much, this country has some of the most spectacular countryside on offer- there’s a reason they call it the green and pleasant land. Here is my list of some of the most beautiful parts of England.

Devon & Cornwall

People often don’t realise that England has some spectacular coastline and the south coast of Devon has some of my most favourite beaches in the world. The north coast of Cornwall is home to the best surf in the UK with Polzeath and Newquay offering excellent waves.

The tiny fishing village of Port Isaac and Padstow have some of the finest restaurants in the country and if you want to mingle with the rich and famous and maybe spot a royal or meet your own Prince Harry, take a trip to Rock- Britain’s answer to St Tropez.

>> Book a hostel in Cornwall  

Cambridge itself has stunning medieval buildings, courtyards, gardens and bridges as well as number of shops, bars and restaurants. Situated in the East of England, Cambridge sits on the River Cam.

Take a picnic and some strawberries and go ‘punting’ on the river. ‘Punting’ involves moving a boat along the river with a giant stick, a bit like the English version of a gondola – just don’t fall in!

>> Find hotels in Cambridge

Just 50 minutes outside London, Brighton has famous landmarks including the Royal Pavilion, home of King George IV, and the Victorian promenade, Brighton Pier. The sea front is lined with surf shops, art galleries, fish and chip shops and buskers. This is a city of festivals too – not only is it home to Britain’s biggest arts festival, Brighton Festival, but there’s comedy, music and food festivals all year round.

Brighton happens to be the gay capital of England, so Brighton Summer pride is the biggest pride festival celebrating all things gay and lesbian. In December the Burning of The Clocks takes place to welcome the lengthening of the days, where people carry lanterns through the city, culminating in a huge pyrotechnic and firework display.

>> Find hotels in Brighton

The Cotswolds

It includes the famous spa city of Bath and the town of Cheltenham, home to horse racing. The Cheltenham Gold Cup horse race takes place every year in March and is part of a weeklong event, the Cheltenham Festival.

The Cotswolds is also rather a chic area with celebrity visitors and residents, critically acclaimed restaurants, gastro pubs and farmers’ markets. The area is truly beautiful, with manor houses, national trust properties, museums and gardens to visit.

>> Read more about visiting the Cotswolds

The Yorkshire Dales

They also have beautiful dales (valleys) and heather moors, which are excellent for walking, hiking and mountain biking. If you don’t want to walk you can always take a steam train instead.

The Dales has sweeping valleys, sleepy meadows, high fells, broad-leaved woodland, dramatic rocky crags, caves, historic buildings and bustling market towns. The landscape is scattered with stone barns and houses and an abundance of waterfalls.

Manchester’s other export is the band Oasis, and any karaoke night abroad wouldn’t be complete without a bad rendition of Wonderwall. The MEN arena is a great venue to go and see famous music acts, and Manchester has a lively and original music scene.

England’s second largest is an industrial city with a multicultural community; try a curry on the Curry Mile, visit the famous Lowry Centre and Art Gallery or learn about Manchester’s history at the URBIS museum.

Manchester has a tram system for getting around and a big wheel offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding areas. Nightlife centres around the Northern Quarter, Deansgate and Castlefield. With some parts rebuilt after the IRA bomb in 1996, Manchester is a perfect blend of old and new.

>> Book a flight to Manchester

The Lake District

Located in the North West of England the stunning scenery includes fells, valleys, peaks, towns and villages and of course lakes! It’s great for walking, climbing and cycling and you can also get on the water and do some sailing, kite surfing and windsurfing on the lakes and coastline.

So if you’re an outdoors-y type it is really worth going to this area of the North West. There are plenty of cafes, Michelin-starred restaurants and pubs for foodies and you can buy all sorts of individual arts and crafts.

Top things to do include taking a cruise on Lake Windermere, exploring the World of Beatrix Potter or visiting Wordsworth’s home, Dove Cottage.

Plan your trip:

• Book flights to London 
• Read our England travel guide 
• Check out day trips from London

Photo credits: Manchester by samdiablo666 on Flickr , Cambridge by Prisoner 5413 on Flickr , Lake District by 1UK3 on Flickr , Yorkshire Dales by bbodien on Flickr , Brighton by jvoronine on Flickr , Cotswolds by James-Hetherington (away in Italy for 2 weeks) on Flickr , Devon and Cornwall by R P Marks on Flickr

Our 16 Favorite International Cities To Visit

O f all of the cities in the world — and there are thousands to mention — these are our readers’ faves! Uncover a new favorite, rediscover an old classic, or perhaps adventure to the hidden gems of a metropolis. If this list only serves to whet your international city appetite, our readers also shared the most walkable cities and their favorite food cities from around the world!

1. London, England, UK (Winner)

“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.” 

As in A Bear Called Paddington , there are so many fun adventures to be had it’s no wonder that London was voted your favorite international city. From the Greenwich Meridian to Buckingham Palace , parks and free museums , walking tours and double-decker bus rides, London has something for tour groups, families, and even the solo tourist. 

Make sure to pack your comfy shoes and smart layers as weather can change on a dime.

2. Paris, France

Bienvenue à Paris — Welcome to Paris! Last year’s favorite international city drops to second place this year. The beautiful capital of France is divided into 20 arrondissements , or administrative districts, and each district has plenty to offer everyone, with museums, gardens, eateries, coffee shops, and architecture galore.

In 2024, Paris will play host to the 33rd Olympiad and the 17th Paralympic games. If visiting during the games, allow for plenty of travel and sightseeing time as the city and surrounding areas are bound to be extra crowded.

3. Florence, Italy

Monuments, cathedrals, and retail stores… Oh my! Tucked in the heart of the centrally located Tuscany region, Florence, or Comune di Firenze , attracts millions of visitors each year. While known for its Renaissance and Gothic architecture and monuments, the Complex of Santa Maria del Fiore tops them all. The city also boasts numerous art galleries and a high-end shopping district called Via Tornabuoni, where you can find Bulgari and Ferragamo .

4. Dublin, Ireland

What comes to mind when you think of Dublin, Ireland? For me, it’s a pint of Guinness and the pubs that serve it . One pub in particular is the historic Temple Bar, which just so happens to be in the Temple Bar District . You can also find many parks, museums, religious sites, and the River Liffey. Make sure to check out the beautiful Dublin Castle ; tours are offered daily for the State Apartments, the Viking Excavation, and the Chapel Royal.

5. Rome, Italy

When in Rome , do as the Romans do. While this phrase was originally spoken to Saint Augustine about fasting on Saturdays, this proverb has come to mean that one ought to follow the traditions of the place being visited. Every district of Rome hides a ruin, monument, or historical site. Our readers love Rome so much that a few made our list of Favorite Landmarks Around The World . According to Rome’s official tourism website , the top five most-visited sites in The Eternal City are the Colosseum , the Pantheon , the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the Trevi Fountain, and Navona Square. Enjoy all of these breathtaking sites in one tour to see the best that Rome has to offer.

6. Amsterdam, Netherlands

While tulips and the Netherlands are synonymous to most, did you know that they are not the national flower of the Netherlands? In June of 2023, the daisy was voted in as the national flower. At any rate, to enjoy the sights and smells of the tulip, take a bicycle tour that starts at the famous floating market — Bloemenmarkt. Amsterdam is known for its canals and bridges, multiple museums, and beautifully colorful tulips. The most lauded museum is the Rijksmuseum , which houses the largest collection of classical Dutch art in the world, including works from Rembrandt and Johannes Vermeer. And don’t forget about the Van Gogh Museum to see many of his works and to learn all about the person who made him famous. Pop over to the Anne Frank House , then grab a wheel of Dutch-made Gouda cheese to enjoy on a walk down one of the many canals.

7. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is located in the northeastern corner of España, overlooking the beautiful Mediterranean Sea, and is home to Antoni Gaudi’s unfinished Sagrada Familia Basilica . Football fans can cheer for FC Barcelona and everyone else can enjoy an immersive and innovative tour experience at the Espai Barça . If you have extra time to spend outside of the city, be sure to check out Mount Tibidabo. It’s the highest point in Barcelona — and offers hikes — Spain’s oldest amusement park, and the location of Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón.

8. Munich, Germany

While most know it as the home of Oktoberfest , Munich is also the birthplace of river surfing. Back in 1972, Dieter “The Eater” Deventer discovered the stationary wave after German authorities placed some concrete blocks in the Eisbach River to block the strong current. The wave is for experienced surfers only, as the current moves at 20 tons per second. Unlike ocean waves where you paddle to the waves, on the Eisbach, you simply jump onto it from the river bank. If surfing and beer aren’t enough to get you there, Christmas in Munich is unbeatable. Whether shopping at one of the 20 markets like Christkindlmarkt or taking in the lights inside and out all over the city, you can spend multiple days discovering all that Munich has to offer.

9. Athens, Greece

Athens , where the city is the museum, has so many things to offer its visitors. The Monastiraki neighborhood, aptly named for a “little monastery” that once operated there, is home to a massive flea market-style shopping center. From the center of Monastiraki, you can see the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum that opened in 2009. Dining in Athens is a fantastic experience, ranging from small, local tavernas to drink ouzo like a local to high-end Michelin-starred restaurants .

10. Montréal, Quebec, Canada

Montréal played host to the 1967 International and Universal Exposition, also called Expo 67. The United States Pavilion was housed in The Biosphère , which sits in one of the biggest parks in Montreal — Parc Jean-Drapeau . In this park alone, you can find sporting events such as the Grand Prix , an amusement park , concert and event venues, hiking, boating, and picnicking. And that’s just the beginning of what Montréal has to offer. As far as food goes, poutine, bagels, and smoked-meat sandwiches are favorites among Montréalers. Lastly, I’ll leave you with this little factoid: Municipal regulations forbid any building to exceed the height of Mount Royal.

11. Prague, Czechia

Prague , the City of a Hundred Spires, is home to a 600-year-old medieval astronomical clock; it is the last clock in the world to track Central European, Babylonian, and Sidereal times. Head to Quadrio Shopping Station to the Head of Franz Kafka and marvel at the 42-layer rotating metallic head of Franz Kafka. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path pub and unique spa experience all in one, look no further than The Original Beer Spa . Take a soak in a “hop sauna,” sip unlimited beer, cool off with an oak-bucket shower, and pamper yourself with beer cosmetics made with Czech beer.

12. Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Melbourne , the beautiful capital of Victoria, is home to some of the most vibrant street art in the world. Tucked into the art-covered lanes are some of the best laneway secrets . The Royal Botanic Gardens boasts 38 beautiful acres of diverse plant collections and offers numerous programs like Nature Therapy and Aboriginal Heritage Walks .

13. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is famous for its hospitality and welcoming spirit. It also has a unique winemaking tradition with many regions to boast. Declared a national monument in 1910, Belém Tower was built between 1515 and 1521; it was built as a fortress to help protect the Jeronimos Monastery and as a gateway to the city of Lisbon. “Leisure plus nature equals mathematics,” at Camp Grande , which houses a collection of games and monuments dedicated to mathematics.

14. Istanbul, Türkiye

Everyone knows that Constantinople is now called Istanbul . But did you know that from Istanbul, you can see one continent from another? Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus Strait which provides the only passage between the Black and the Mediterranean Seas. Aside from this exciting geographical phenomenon, TravelAwaits writer Teresa Otto shares why you will fall in love with Istanbul . No trip would be complete without a shopping trip at the Grand Bazaar , a Turkish delight, and a Turkish coffee.

15. Zagreb, Croatia

Croatia is located across the Adriatic Sea from Italy and it is the host country to many movies and shows because of its beautiful landscapes, cities, and countryside. One such place is Park Bundek . Sitting along the Sava River, it was formerly a neglected jungle. The Museum of Illusions and the Nikola Tesla Museum offer unique and fun learning environments for all ages. Satisfy any foodie craving with a guided truffle-hunting tour, or pick up a traditional licitar cookie while in town; though you may not actually want to eat them as they are considered more of a souvenir than a snack.

16. Singapore

Singapore is one of the most densely populated cities in the world and it also happens to be one of only a handful of city-states in the world. Our readers love having drinks alongside the world’s highest and longest infinity pool at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel . Before an elevated stay, hit up the Night Safari for a unique nocturnal zoo experience. Lastly, don’t forget to stop at the mouth of the Singapore River and take in the history and symbolism of Merlion Park .

Read more from our  2023 Best Of Travel Awards .

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 13 London Villages That Will Give You a Taste of the English Countryside in the City

Today I want to share my guide to the best London villages with you. People always ask me about the prettiest neighborhoods in London , and there are a lot of good ones. From north to south, east to west, I’ll show you urban villages that will make you feel like you’ve escaped to the English countryside without leaving the city. I’ve included a map, too.

London Villages

One of my favorite things about London is that the city feels like a collection of villages. Each neighborhood has its own personality and style, from fashionable Chelsea to hip Hackney and colorful Notting Hill .

In reality, some parts of London really were villages before the UK capital expanded to incorporate them. From leafy Hampstead to dreamy Dulwich, these places still retain their intimate feel and charm.

Whether you’re looking to explore a new-to-you part of the city, choose where to stay on an upcoming visit, or decide where to live in London , this post will give you an idea of what the best London villages have to offer.

1. Hampstead

Since it was the first place I lived in London and it’s still my favorite part of the city, I’ll start my list of London villages with Hampstead . This north London neighborhood is a true gem, and it’s often considered the most beautiful part of the UK capital.

Hampstead village is known for its historic streets, elegant houses, hidden pubs , and the sprawling expanse of Hampstead Heath . They make it one of the most charming places to see in London.

From Hampstead High Street to Heath Street, Flask Walk to Church Row, this part of London is full of picturesque shops, heritage houses, and great details.

Hidden spaces like the Hill Garden and Pergola add great greenery to the neighborhood, too. With its raised walkway and wisteria-laden pergola, this place feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale.

There are great small museums in Hampstead , too. From the National Trust’s Fenton House with its beautiful garden to Burgh House, Keats House, and 2 Willow Road, there are a lot of good ones to discover.

If you want to see the highlights of this part of north west London , my self-guided Hampstead walk and Hampstead Heath walks can help.

If you want to live like a local, you can stay in the area. There are lots of options in Hampstead. La Gaffe is conveniently located on Heath Street. It’s my favorite local hotel in the area. I love its cozy ambiance and delicious cappuccinos. You can book a room here .

If you prefer your own place, the Mirabilis Apartments in Wells Court on Oriel Place are perfect. These elegant flats are right in the heart of the village between Hampstead High Street and Heath Street. You can book one here .

You can see a range of other accommodation options and hotels in Hampstead here . You’re sure to find a place in the area that fits your style.

Next on my list of the best London villages is Dulwich . This leafy enclave in the south of the city is one of the prettiest London neighborhoods to live in, and there are a lot of great things to do in Dulwich .

With a world-class picture gallery, a famous boys’ school, pretty houses, a high street full of pubs and cafes, loads of parks, and unique wooden street signs with fingers pointing in every direction, there’s a lot to love about Dulwich.

East Dulwich is right next to Dulwich village, and it’s known for having one of the best high streets in London , the vibrant North Cross Road market , street art, and pretty parks and squares.

From the independent shops on Lordship Lane to the adorable dogs on Goose Green and abundance of local pubs, East Dulwich has a lot going for it as well.

If you want to see more of the area, you can follow the route of my free self-guided walk in Dulwich . It will show you everything from the high street to the parks and hidden lanes.

If this part of the city appeals, you can stay here. There are plenty of good places in Dulwich. My top pick is The Crown & Greyhound . A charming pub with rooms, it’s in a great location on the high street. You can book a room here .

If you’re looking for a different kind of place, you can see a range of other options and find accommodation that suits your preferences here . There are lots of good choices.

3. Marylebone

In the center of the city , Marylebone is another of my favorite London villages. The restaurants and shops here are some of the best in the UK capital.

Marylebone High Street alone could keep me busy all day. Not only is it beautiful, but it’s also packed with stylish boutiques and cafes. It’s one of the best shopping streets in London .

Elsewhere in the neighborhood, Chiltern Street is full of heritage buildings, and Marylebone Lane and St Christopher’s Place are packed with gems.

Add to that museums like the Wallace Collection, fun weekly markets, charming side streets, and the area’s proximity to Regent’s Park, and Marylebone is hard to beat.

If you want to see more of the neighborhood, you can follow the route of my free self-guided walk in Marylebone . It will show you everything from the high street to the gardens, markets, and hidden mews.

If this part of the city appeals, you can stay in it. There are plenty of good places in Marylebone. My top pick is The Langham . A landmark hotel in the heart of London, it’s a great place to call home-away-from-home. You can book a room here .

If you’re looking for something different, you can see a range of other options and find accommodation that fits your style here . There are lots of good choices.

4. Little Venice

Next on my guide to London villages is Little Venice . This area near Maida Vale and Paddington is famous for its canals, but there are pretty streets and houses galore, too.

Little Venice is great if you love Canal walks in London and being by the water. It’s a residential area, so it offers a nice break from the bustle of the city center without being too far from it.

If you want to see the best of the neighborhood, you can follow the route of my free self-guided Little Venice walk . It will show you everything from the canal to the gardens, local pubs, and side streets.

If this part of the city appeals, you can stay here. There are plenty of places to choose from in Little Venice. My top pick is Boutique Barges . A unique canal boat property, it’s a fun place to stay on the water. You can book it here .

5. Richmond

My guide to London villages continues with Richmond . Out in the south west, this affluent area is known for its scenic riverfront, huge park, buzzing high street, and pretty side streets.

Stately homes like Ham House add a nice cultural element to the area, and historic alleys like Brewers Lane are charming. That’s to say nothing of Petersham Nurseries, which is a destination in its own right.

Richmond Green has fun pubs, and it’s the perfect place catch a glimpse of a local cricket match. It’s also a filming location for Ted Lasso , so you can walk around and see if you can spot your favorite places from the TV show .

If you want to see the best of the area, you can follow the route of my free self-guided Richmond walk . It will show you everything from the river to the gardens, filming locations, parks, and side streets. It’s a great thing to do on a day out in Richmond .

If that all appeals, you can stay locally. There are plenty of places to choose from in Richmond. My top pick is The Petersham . A local hotel with a good afternoon tea , it’s in a great location near the Thames. You can book a room here .

If you’re looking for something a bit different, you can see a number of other options and find accommodation that suits your style here . There are lots of good choices.

6. Highgate

My guide to the best London villages continues with Highgate . Home of the famous Highgate Cemetery and lots of charming streets and squares, this is one of the most beautiful parts of north London.

There are loads of green spaces, including Highgate Wood, Waterlow Park, and Hampstead Heath. The shops around the high street have colorful facades, and Holly Village is a true London gem.

Highgate is blessed with beautiful houses and great views, too. The hilly side streets are atmospheric, and it’s worth getting off the beaten path and exploring the little lanes while you’re here.

If you want to explore the best of this part of London, my free self-guided Highgate walk will take you around and show you the highlights.

If this part of the city appeals, you can stay here. There are plenty of good places in Highgate. My top pick is The Bull & Last . A charming pub with rooms, it’s in a great location right by Hampstead Heath. You can book a room here .

7. Stoke Newington

Stoke Newington is next on my list of London villages. This area in east London has a great local feel.

Stoke Newington is famous for its high street. It features a variety of independent restaurants, cafes, and shops. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or some retail therapy, it has something for you.

The neighborhood is also home to two beautiful green spaces. Walking through them is one of the many exciting things to do in Stoke Newington .

Clissold Park is a classic green space packed with everything from expansive lawns to a small zoo with fallow deer, goats, and and birds. Between them lie flower beds, fountains, lakes, tennis courts, and views of the steeple of St Mary’s Church.

Abney Park dates back to the early 18th century. A former graveyard, it was one of the Magnificent Seven garden cemeteries in London. Today this place is a woodland memorial park and peaceful local nature reserve.

If this part of the city appeals, you can stay locally. There are plenty of good places in Stoke Newington. My top pick is The Brownswood . A beautiful pub with boutique rooms, it’s in a great location near Clissold Park. You can book a room here .

8. Primrose Hill

Next on my list of the best London villages is Primrose Hill . This is one of the sweetest neighborhoods in the city, not least because of its pastel houses and pretty shops.

Primrose Hill is known for its colorful Regency townhouses, local pubs, and famous green space with a view of Regent’s Park and the city skyline.

There are food markets and fun shops on Regent’s Park Road, the Victorian terraces are picture-pretty, and the stretch of Regent’s Canal that runs through the area is beautiful. Which is to say nothing of the view from the top of Primrose Hill itself.

Most people visit this part of London to take in the view from the top of Primrose Hill, but it’s worth spending time exploring side streets like Chalcot Crescent and Chalcot Square. Their pastel facades are stunning.

If you want to discover this part of London, my free self-guided Primrose Hill walk will take you around and show you the highlights.

If you’d like to live like a local, you can stay here. There are plenty of good options in Primrose Hill. My top pick is this studio apartment . Cozy and quiet, it’s in a great location right by the high street. You can book a stay here .

If you want something different, you can see a range of other options and find a place that fits your style here . There are plenty of choices.

9. Greenwich

Greenwich is another of the best London villages. This part of south east London is known for its historic architecture, world-class museums, park, observatory, and maritime history.

From the Queen’s House to the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich Park, and the Royal Observatory, Greenwich has heritage galore. Add to that pretty streets and a vibrant market, and there are lots of exciting things to do in Greenwich .

If you’re feeling adventurous, it’s fun to take a day trip to Greenwich on a boat from central London. You can book tickets here .

If you want to see the best of this part of the UK capital, my free self-guided walk in Greenwich will take you around and show you both the historic highlights and the local ones.

If you want to stay for more than just a day, there are plenty of good options for accommodation in Greenwich. My top pick is the Admiral Hardy . A stylish local pub, it’s in a great location right in the historic heart of the area. You can book a stay here .

If you’re after something a bit different, you can see a range of other options and find a place that fits your style here . There are lots of good choices.

10. Wimbledon

Wimbledon is next on my list of my favorite London villages. While it’s best known for the annual Wimbledon Tennis Championships , the village is worth visiting outside the sporting event.

Wimbledon village has a high street with pubs, independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a fun place to wander around, window shop, have tea, or enjoy lunch.

Wimbledon Common is a huge green space that’s great for getting into nature in the city, too. Whether you want to take a walk, play a round of golf, or ride a horse, there’s something for everyone here.

It’s fun to explore the side streets and gardens, too. From Cannizaro Park to the elegant homes leading to the famous All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC), there’s a lot to see in the area.

If you’d like to stay a night or two, there are plenty of good options in Wimbledon. My top pick is the Dog & Fox . A fun local pub, it’s in an ideal location right on the village high street. You can book a room here .

If you’re looking for something different, you can see a range of additional options and find a place that suits your preferences here . There are lots of good choices.

11. Clapham Old Town

Next on my guide to the best London villages is Clapham Old Town. With its pretty historic heart, expansive common, and independent shops, it’s no wonder so many people like to call this part of south London home.

Clapham Old Town is full of charming side streets and houses, and there are great restaurants and cafes in the area. The bars and pubs on and around the high street are lively every night, too.

If you want a leg stretch, Clapham Common is a great place to walk. This expansive green space is home to everything from a historic bandstand to sports fields and wooded areas.

Local markets like Venn Street Market round out the scene. Taking place every Saturday, it’s a great produce and artisan market with a variety of street food vendors. It’s one of my favorite south London markets .

There are places to call home-away-from home here, too. Clapham Old Town has a number of good options, and my top pick is the The Windmill on the Common . A local pub and hotel, it’s in an ideal location right on the park. You can book a room here .

If you’re after something different, you can take a look at a range of options and find a place that fits your preferences here . There are lots of good ones to choose from.

12. Chiswick

Chiswick is another London village that’s worthy of a spot on my list. This residential area on the Thames in west London is packed with beautiful streets and historic houses.

The high street in Chiswick has great restaurants and shops, and I love browsing the treasure troves full of antiques. There are fun bookshops and clothing stores along the road as well.

It’s fun to spend an afternoon taking in the stunning houses and gardens along the Thames Path between Hammersmith and Chiswick, too.

Add to that Chiswick House, Hogarth’s House, and the Fuller’s Brewery, and there are a lot of unique attractions in the area as well.

If that appeals, there are great places to stay for a night or two in Chiswick. My top pick is the room2 Chiswick Hometel . Located in the heart of the area, it has modern studios and a cafe cocktail bar. You can book one here .

Right on the Thames opposite Fulham and next to Putney, Barnes is another London village that’s worth a special trip. This local area fills a bend in the river, and it’s known for its pretty green spaces, elegant buildings, and good pubs.

The London Wetland Centre is here, too. Comprised of four disused Victorian reservoirs, this place focuses on the restoration and preservation of wetland nature areas. It’s a popular place with visitors, especially families with children.

Barnes is home to cultural attractions as well. Local galleries offer rotating displays of contemporary fine art, and The OSO Centre is the perfect place to check out exhibitions and plays.

There are great pubs here, too. The Sun Inn is a fun spot to have lunch or a drink. It’s right on Barnes Green, a pretty park with a pond.

If that sounds good, there are lots of places to stay in Barnes. My top pick is the The Bridge Pub & Rooms . Located near the Thames, this local pub has a handful of classically designed guest rooms. You can book one here .

If you’re looking for something a bit different, you can view a number of other options and find a place that fits your style here . There are plenty of good ones to choose from.

Map of Villages in London

As promised, I’ve created an interactive map of all the London villages on my list. You can see it here . If you click on the pins, you can find my blog posts about each one.

If you want to see everything in one place, my map of London neighborhoods can help.

Best London Villages

I hope you’ve enjoyed this overview of London villages and that it’s inspired you get out and discover more of the UK capital. Happy exploring!

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Brits’ favourite UK city has been revealed — and London no longer tops the list

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It’s official: London has lost its crown as the UK’s favourite city.

Despite the fact the capital has won a slew of awards and titles over the years – and in 2023 was named the best city in the world for the ninth year in a row – it seems that Brits aren’t so convinced.

According to a recent YouGov survey , only 63% of people held a positive opinion of the city, which ranks third in the list.

It was actively disliked by 17% of those asked, with a further 20% having no opinion of the city whatsoever.

The favourite, meanwhile, was the city of York, which scored an impressive 74% in the popularity contest. Trailing just behind was Edinburgh, which got a 71% approval rating.

You can view the full list here .

It should come as no shock that the northern city is so favourable – just last month York was dubbed the UK’s ‘friendliest’ place by travel site Restless.co.uk. In 2023, it was also named one of the most ‘welcoming’ cities in the world by Booking.com.

Given the city’s rich history, picturesque cobbled streets and vibrant culture, it’s not hard to see why York is so beloved. It’s also been the backdrop to many movies and TV shows over the years – the ancient Shambles street is even believed to be the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.

The most popular cities in the UK

• Edinburgh – 71%
• London – 60%
• Cambridge – 60%
• Oxford – 58%
• Durham – 57%
• Brighton – 57%
• Manchester – 57%
• Portsmouth – 55%
• Newcastle upon Tyne – 55%
• Liverpool – 54%
• Bristol – 54%
• Exeter – 54%
• Cardiff – 51%
• Plymouth – 51%
• Glasgow – 50%
• Norwich – 48%
• Belfast – 47%
• Poole – 46%
• Gloucester – 46%

In 2023, just under 3 million people visited York’s major attractions and, according to its tourism board, travel contributed a staggering £1.7 billion to the local economy.

The previous year, York welcomed a total of 8.9 million visitors – 1.2 million of which came from overseas.

Latest London news

• The mysterious blue doors in London which hide a former 1800s asylum
• Grandmother, 75, feels 'trapped' after new bus-stop installed outside
• There are some secret ancient ruins hiding in a London car park

To get the latest news from the capital visit Metro.co.uk's London news hub .

Speaking of the feat, Sarah Loftus, managing director of Make it York, said: ‘We’re extremely proud to see that the figures highlight the hard work coming from local businesses and organisations – tourism has a significant impact on York and our economy, not only be creating thousands of jobs for local people but also by fostering understanding and relationships amongst communities and propelling us towards a brighter, more connected future.

‘York is such a dynamic city, drawing people in from all walks of life, from all over the world, with its unparalleled charm. As visitor numbers continue to rise, so will the city’s reputation as a must-visit location for anyone seeking an unforgettable city break.’

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

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Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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