You know, one of the things I love about England is the diversity that we have. From the little coves on the Dorset Coast, gorgeous little hamlets and enough history to throw a stick at. All across the country, it’s filled to the brim with some of the best places to visit in England.
Okay, but let’s start with the glaringly obvious: I’m biased and pretty proud of the beauty of England. I really do think that England is totally unique and much more than just cities like London. Yes, these are amazing (and I love London more than any other city in the world), but it’s just one small area of our amazing country, and there really is so much to see.
Over the last few years, I’ve made it my priority to explore so much more of England and to see the places that are right on my doorstep (it’s something that I regretted for the longest time… thinking that I needed to leave the UK to feel like I’d travelled. How wrong I was.
Anyway, better late than never, right? Whatever the case, If it’s your first trip around England or you’re a dab hand at exploring our gorgeous country, I know you’ll find some of the best places to visit in England that you’ll just love. Take a look at some of the very best places to visit in England. You’re going to have an amazing trip.
1.) Lake District
The Lake District is the UK’s newest UNESCO-protected site, and rightly so; it’s beautiful. As you can probably tell from the name, the Lake District is filled with tranquil lakes, beautiful mountain ranges and a whole heap of tiny villages to explore.
Best of all, each lake has a slightly different character that’s unique. The most well-known is Windermere Lake, which is stunning and one of the largest lakes in all of the Lake District. Though the whole area of the Lake District is so pretty, Windermere easily stands out as one of the region’s best places to visit. Not only that, it’s got heaps of stunning manor hotels and stately homes that line the shores and are perfect to stay at.
Staying overnight in the Lake District? The best hotel in all of the Lake District has to be the Langdale Chase Hotel. We loved our time staying in this period, manor hotel and it’s got all the vibes and heritage you’d expect from a countryside manor on the shores of Lake Windermere. Not only that, the team arrange sailing trips right from the hotel, which is so lovely at sunset. Oh, and don’t forget about their yummy afternoon tea on the stone terrace. Lashings of clotted cream, homemade jam and freshly baked scones. They’re divine.
If you want to avoid the larger crowds, pop over to Ullswater Lake and check into Another Place, The Lake. Whilst here, head out onto the Ullswater steamer, try your hand at paddleboarding and hike to the top of Harter Fell for some of the best views across the Lake District.
It really is one of the best places to visit in England, especially if you can fit in a tour that takes in ten of the lakes. We loved this tour of the Lake District, especially as it’s a 1-day trip and perfect if you’re only staying for a long weekend.
Read more: Ultimate guide to visiting the Lake District
2.) Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle is one of the oldest settlements, I think I’ve visited in England… people have lived here for over 8,000 years. It’s a total throwback, and it’ll feel like you’ve stepped back 1,000 years to an Olde English world. It really does feel like that.
Once here, take a stroll through the castle of Corfe, wander all the little boutiques and grab a yummy Sunday roast at Mortons House Restaurant.
If trains are your thing, you can even take a historic train from Corfe Castle Station to Swanage.
For a great place to stay around Corfe Castle, check into Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa. Yes, it’s about 30 miles east of Corfe Castle itself, but it’s so worth the drive. This place is idyllic and one of the best hotels on the south coast of England to stay at! We stayed at their Treehouse Loft Suite, and it’s so gorgeous. Plus, they have one of the best hotel spas in England to relax after a day of exploring.
Read more: Our visit and guide to exploring Corfe Castle
3.) The Cotswolds
Yeah, the Cotswolds are a recurring theme for me! About 2 hours or so from London, the Cotswolds is an area of outstanding natural beauty that you’ll love (and easily one of the best places to visit in England).
Once you’re there, make sure to visit Bibury to see the gorgeous Arlington Row, pop into the Upper and Lower Slaughters (they’re far less gruesome than they sound), and head over to other spots like the Chipping Steps in Tetbury and Bourton-on-the-Water, too.
To be honest, I always find it easiest to get around the Cotswolds by car (although some bus routes and trains do run), you’ll have much more freedom to explore the tiny hamlets, towns and rolling hills.
That being said, if you don’t drive, you can book an incredible Cotswolds tour. This is especially good if you don’t drive. Plus, it takes all the stress out of planning your destinations in the Cotswolds, and it’s all so easy.
If you’re looking for the best hotels to stay at in the Cotswolds, make sure to first book Buckland Manor Hotel. It’s a historic manor in the heart of the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and is as picture-perfect as you can imagine. Make sure to book one of their four-poster bed suites within the manor house itself. They are incredible, and we loved our stay in these.
Another gem of a hotel to book in the Cotswolds is Cowley Manor Experimental Hotel. This is as palatial as they come when thinking of countryside hotels. We stayed in their iconic St Mary’s Suite and totally loved it. Trust me, this is the kind of hotel you won’t want to check out of! It’s absolutely divine and well worth booking this hotel if you’re visiting the Cotswolds.
Read more: Best things to do in the Cotswolds
4.) Cambridge
Cambridge is one of the prettiest cities in England and has heaps of places to see and do for a city break trip! Now, if I’m honest, Cambridge always holds a soft spot with me (after living there for quite a few yearss). It’s a relatively small city that is perfect to explore over a few days. There is heaps to see and do in Cambridge, and it’s the perfect place to visit for a day trip or weekend trip. Once here, make sure to head up to the Church of St Mary the Great, where you can climb the tower and get some incredible vistas over the city (just watch out for the bells ringing, which makes the tower shake).
Also, don’t forget to pop inside King’s College and the incredible chapel that’s just so awe-inspiring to see. Inside the chapel, you can still faintly see the ‘graffiti’ from Oliver Cromwell’s army that still stands to this day. Oh yeah, keep your eyes peeled for the huge wooden rood screen inside the chapel – it was gifted by Henry VIII (the one that had six wives) to Anne Boleyn and is one of the most striking features in the centre of the chapel.
For a great place to stay in Cambridge, book the University Arms Hotel. It’s right in the centre of historic Cambridge and has been lovingly restored. It’s perfect to explore the town on foot, and the rooms are gorgeous. Plus, it’s right next to the world-renowned Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.
Read more: Best things to do in Cambridge
5.) Bath
There’s just something about Bath, and you’ll totally know what I mean once you arrive. This ancient Roman Spa settlement still has some of the incredible features from the Roman Times. Make sure to pop into the Roman Baths themselves and learn more about the incredible history of this place. In fact, these baths are some of Western Europe’s most famous and a place you need to visit whilst exploring Bath. Just be sure to grab these Roman Baths tickets before arriving, as it’ll cut down your queueing times, which can be quite long at peak times. It really is one of the best places to visit in England.
For a tasty treat, take a stroll over to Sally Lunn’s; she is the most famous and one of the oldest bun makers in the city. It’s been going on since 1680, and they taste so good! Opt for one of their buns, with toppings if you like, and sit within the centuries-old baking house. It’s incredible.
Also, if you want to make things easier to get around Bath, book this hop-on, hop-off bus ticket. This way, it takes all the stress out of trying to find all of Bath’s best spots.
For one of Bath’s best hotels, make sure to book The Bath Priory. It’s an iconic Relais & Châteaux hotel and is situated within one of the region’s most historic buildings. Think, English country house feels and all the luxe you’d expect from the region.
Read more: Best things to do in Bath
6.) Bristol
So Bristol is one of those cities that totally surprised me. My first-ever visit to Bristol was a little disappointing (I have to be honest). I just think I hadn’t really found my vibe for things I’d like on my first visit. All my fault, of course. I just hadn’t researched all the best places to see in Bristol before turning up.
Thankfully, I was determined to give Bristol another shot! Armed with much more research on Bristol’s best places to visit. This just did it for me – I fell in love with the city straight away, and it’s really up there with the best places to visit in England.
Once there, head on a trail to see some of Bristol’s most iconic contemporary artists, including Banksy (which you can freely spot around the city). There’s a whole heap across his home city.
Afterwards, head over to Whapping Wharf and Spike Island to spend the afternoon on the seafront with all the art spaces, restaurants and boutique little shops or pop over to the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, which is the world’s first ever suspension bridge.
Looking for the best hotel in Bristol? Book The Royal Crescent Hotel, which is so stunning and right in the heart of historic Bristol. Not only are the rooms totally pretty and chic, but the Royal Crescent Hotel is based within the iconic Royal Crescent area of the city. For one of the prettiest rooms, book this Master Suite, which is their flagship room and is beautiful. We loved it.
Read more: Best things to do in Bristol
7.) Oxford
There’s a lot of friendly rivalry between Oxford and Cambridge as places to visit (and study). Some say Cambridge is the best… others say it’s Oxford. I’m gonna leave the final decision to you. Now, Oxford itself is easily one of the best places to visit in England, especially if you’re based in London or on a longer road trip or a day trip from London. It’s got heaps of places to see in the city and is the perfect city break to explore the long history of the area.
Whilst here, make sure to visit Christ Church College, head onto the river punting and wet your whistle at the Thirsty Meeples – a really quirky board game cafe in the city.
Finally, book a tour with an actual alumni guide to take you all around the best spots in Oxford. It’s a great way to explore the city and is so interesting.
If you’re looking for a great place to stay, make sure to book this room at the Old Bank Hotel. It’s right in the heart of the action in Oxford, and it makes the city centre so accessible. Not only that, the rooms are stunning and are easily Oxford’s best places to stay.
Read more: Ultimate city guide on what to see in Oxford
8.) Norwich
It took me far too long to make our first trip to Norwich (England’s first-ever medieval city), and I’m ashamed to say that my very first visit was this year. Well, better late than never, eh?
Perched about 2 hours north of London by train, it’s one of the best places to visit in England and a spot that I know you’ll love. Especially for the long history of the city. Whilst you’re in Norwich, make sure to explore the incredible cathedral, see the historic cobbled streets and wander to the central market that’s been held permanently in the town for over 1,000 years (when it was a Saxon market). Yeah, you read that right… an actual millennium!
If it’s food you’re after, for a tasty bite to eat, head outside Norwich to the Fur and Feathers, which makes a delicious feast from local ingredients. Oh, and finish your day with the best chippy in all of England at the Grosvenor Fish Bar; all served with lashings of vinegar, of course. We left both places stuffed.
Read more: Ultimate city guide to Norwich
9.) Stonehenge
Possibly one of the most famous ancient sites in England, Stonehenge is a spot you have to see. Perched west of London (about 80 minutes away by car), it really is one of the best places to visit in England – especially for us history buffs!
It’s been recorded that the stones of Stonehenge actually came from West Wales, a huge distance from where it was built. Still, to this day, there are no conclusive ideas of why this was built or what it represents, but there are theories around a place of worship, thanks, ceremony and community.
Just be aware that Stonehenge is a really popular spot, so if you don’t like crowds, it’s best to book your Stonehenge tickets for more ‘off-peak’ times. Either visit first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon (just before closing), this way you’ll have missed the bus tours and will only have a few eager beavers with you who have the same idea. Also, if you want to visit and you’re going to be based in London, book this amazing half-day Stonehenge tour that leaves from Central London for a day trip.
If you do plan on staying overnight, book this room at The Great Bustard. It has all the charm of a traditional English countryside inn and has such a tasty restaurant, too. Their sticky toffee pudding is so yummy! It’s the perfect hotel to stay at if you’re visiting nearby Stonehenge, and it’s so welcoming and typically British. We love it for a traditional English countryside inn.
Read more: Our visit to Stonehenge
10.) Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast always sounds so mysterious and prehistoric to me. I mean, the clue is in the name, really, but it always intrigued me right up until I visited this year. This intrigue quickly turned to excitement when I realised that you can go fossil hunting on the UNESCO-protected coastline.
The thing that makes this area so good for fossil hunting is that the eroding cliffs on this stretch of coast have actually been pushed way up out of the seabed to create a piece of land.
Nowadays, as the cliffs slowly erode, they scatter a whole range of fossils that are all along the beach for us all to find.
Keep your eyes peeled and be patient. On our last visit, Yaya and I collected about 10 different fossils! It’s just so crazy to think that you’re the first living being to lay eyes on these fossils for 92 million years.
Oh, also, I nearly forgot – don’t forget to pop across the Jurassic Coast to visit the famous Durdle Door, Old Harry Rocks.
Read more: How to go fossil hunting in England
11.) Watergate Bay
Watergate Bay is one of those places where you arrive and almost instantly fall into that relaxing beach vibe that makes Cornwall so great. Whilst here, make sure to hike across the gorgeous coast, pop over to nearby Newquay and stay at the idyllic Watergate Bay Hotel or the equally stunning and unique Bodmin Jail Hotel. Yes, you read that right, there’s a historic jail that has been transformed into this stunning and totally chic hotel, around 15 miles from Watergate Bay, and it is so unique and such an epic place to stay while exploring Cornwall.
Best of all, in Cornwall, you can book a fun surfing lesson in one of the best regions in England to surf. Oh yeah, and if surfing is your thing, then I’m positive you’ll love the Cornish Coastline is for you. It really is one of the best places to visit in England… especially for sea lovers.
Read more: Pretty places to visit in Cornwall
12.) St Michael’s Mount
St Michael’s (not to be confused with Mount Saint Michel in France) is another of Cornwall’s gems that you should see. Perched on a tidal island, it’s possibly one of the prettiest and best places to visit in England.
Legend has it that a giant still inhabits the cave on the island. Folklore or not, it’s enough to put the heebie-jeebies in you when the sun begins to set.
Read more: Top spots to visit in Cornwall
13.) Robin Hood’s Bay
Perched just south of Whitby in Yorkshire, Robin Hood’s Bay is one stunning and historic seaside village you have to visit.
Once a key smugglers’ village to bring in contraband items like alcohol, Robin Hood’s Bay still has a network of smuggler tunnels underneath the town itself.
Now, you can’t go in them today, but it’s an incredible spot to visit and to learn more about the history of this age-old fishing town. It really is one of the best places to visit in England.
Whilst in the area, make sure to visit Tea, Toast & Post for some tasty grub (their lunches are so good). Plus, they brew some of the best tea on the Yorkshire coast.
Read our full post on visiting Robin Hood’s Bay
14.) Castle Howard
Just a little shy of York, Castle Howard is truly a stunning castle to explore. You’ll honestly be blown away by how beautiful this place is, and it really is one of the best places to visit in England.
Once inside, head to some of the incredible rooms and experience a little slice of this stunning home.
During certain times of the year, Castle Howard hosts afternoon teas that are properly tasty and a real treat. Served with some piping hot Yorkshire tea, sweet treats and sandwiches, it’s a lovely experience.
Although you might not be able to stay in Castle Howard, it’s still a private household; you can stay in the wider area at another iconic countryside mansion. If that sounds like fun, book this room at Grantley Hall Hotel. This place is continuously ranked as Yorkshire’s best hotel and is stunning. For a really special stay, book this Royal Suite, which, as you can imagine, is as regal as they come.
Read more: Ultimate city guide to York
15.) London
I couldn’t forget to shout out London as one of the best places to visit in England, could I? I mean, it’s one of my favourite cities in the world, and there’s so much to do in London that you really can’t miss it!
There are so many amazing places to visit in London! If it’s your first time in London, make sure to check out some of the amazing neighbourhoods of Covent Garden, King’s Cross, Notting Hill, Camden Town, Shoreditch, Peckham and the Royal Borough of Greenwich. Each of these London neighbourhoods is totally unique and a great way to see the diversity that is London.
If you’re looking for some unique places, make sure to see some of London’s secret spots, its incredible markets, best bars and restaurants with a view. You’ll gorge on everything in sight!
Also, you can book yourself on this gorgeous London cruise for a trip up the Thames. It’s a great way to see the city, especially at sunset.
Finally, for one of the best stays in London, book this room at The Londoner. It’s right in the heart of the action in Central London and within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, Leicester Square and prestigious neighbourhoods like Mayfair. It’s one of the city’s most iconic properties, with all the charm, luxe and chicness you come to expect from a world-class hotel.
Read more: Ultimate city guide for visiting London
16.) Holy Island of Lindisfarne
This has to be one of my favourite castles (and islands) in all of England. Perched on Holy Island, Lindisfarne Castle is properly stunning to see in person. There’s just something so magical about it (and yes, that’s really cheesy to say, but it does feel like that).
Not only is the island stunning, but you don’t need to head on a boat to visit the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. You see, it’s a tidal island that gets cut off by the North Sea twice a day.
Thankfully, there are easy times to drive across to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne across the seabed road that takes you right over to the island. Though one word of caution, there are warning signs before you start driving onto the seabed road. If it says not to drive. Do not drive! This means it’s unsafe, and the road is about to be submerged by the tides and seawater. Always be vigilant and listen to local advice.
Once here, head for a hike across the incredible shoreline, pop over to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne and explore the castle and surrounding historic buildings. This place holds heaps of historical notes, too. It’s said to be the place where the start of the Viking Age took off. You see, it’s the first place the Vikings landed after leaving the Nordic countries to invade areas which is now modern-day England.
Oh, and be sure to grab a bottle of Holy Island Mead whilst you’re on the island. It’s an alcoholic drink, traditionally made by the monks on Holy Island and is honey-based. It’s so yummy.
Read more: Our guide to visiting Holy Island
17.) Northumberland
The region of Northumberland is one of England’s most iconic coastal areas for one particular reason. Castles. In fact, it’s regularly considered Castle County, due to the fact that it has the most castles of any region in all of England. This, traditionally, has been due to the warring factions with the nearby Scots. Thankfully, they’re no longer needed, but still stand proudly, watching over the stunning landscape of Northumberland itself.
As I mentioned previously, Holy Island is actually part of Northumberland, but it’s an island off the coast. If you’re already heading here, make sure to explore wider Northumberland.
Once here, make sure to visit the iconic Bamburgh Castle, take a boat over the the nearby Farne Islands (to spot the puffins) and visit Alnwick Castle, too. If you love history (and want to see the region’s 70 castles), you will easily see why Northumberland is one of the best places in England to visit.
Read more: Our guide to visiting Northumberland
18.) Cirencester
Cirencester is a historic market town that’s easily reached by car or by train from most places in England. It’s the kind of town you visit and somehow wonder have you’ve spent all day exploring. It’s one of my favourite market towns and possibly one of the best places to visit in England.
Once you’ve arrived, make sure to explore the Parish Church of St John Baptist, visit the Elemental Sculpture Park and pop into The Fleece for some of the tastiest grub.
For a beautiful place to rest your head, book this amazing countryside hotel and English Inn. It’s called the Royal Oak, which is in Tetbury (about 25 minutes away). The rooms are stunning, especially within the converted stables. Plus, the Inn has yummy food and local ales to try after a day of sightseeing, whilst you’re visiting Cirencester
Read more: Ultimate travel guide to visiting Cirencester
19) Rye
If you fancy a little gallop away from the hustle and bustle of London, rent a car or take the train to the gorgeous and totally historic town of Rye. In fact, even if you’re travelling around the south-east of England, I’d suggest a trip to Rye.
It’s one of the best places to visit in England if you love quaint towns and a history that dates back centuries. Just be sure to check out Mermaid Street (Google Maps pin) with its gorgeous cobbled road, visit the antique shops all around the town and visit the Rye Castle Museum.
Oh, and don’t forget, you can actually book to stay at the Mermaid Inn, which is right in the heart of the iconic Mermaid Street. It’s a centuries-old smugglers’ inn that’s so historic. Not only that, the Mermaid Inn is totally charming and makes for one of the most unique and historic stays in England. It’s perfect and so easy to stroll around the rest of Rye from here.
Afterwards, you can easily pair a trip to Rye with the likes of Camber Sands for a beach day, or even Bodiam Castle (Google Maps pin) for a little more history. Just be sure to plan your day well, it’ll be filled up in no time!
Read more: Best day trips from London
20.) Manchester
Manchester has so many cool places to visit! Not only that, Manchester always feels like that cool cousin you see at family parties and always wanna hang around with. Always hip, trendy and totally cool.
The city has such a cool vibe and really is one of the best places to visit in England if you want to experience a vibrant city (outside of London, of course). Love football, or soccer as it’s known in the United States? Well, you’ve come to the right English city. You see, Manchester is home to Manchester United, the most famous football team in the world. Once here, make sure to book this incredible Old Trafford Stadium tour that’ll take you around one of the world’s most famous stadiums. Not only that, you’ll get to head inside the museum and learn so much more about the history of this iconic club.
Though, don’t worry if you’re not a footy fan! Manchester has so much more to it than kicking a ball! Whilst here, be sure to visit the iconic Manchester Cathedral, that’s been so well preserved. If you love art, get yourself over to the Manchester Art Gallery. This place is perfect to explore the region’s famous artists and houses some of the best paintings and exhibits in the North of England.
Finally, head over to the newer, design-led area of Manchester to visit the Imperial War Museum North and The Lowry. The latter is an amazing venue for theatre, shows and live events. Make sure to check their schedule before arriving and book your seats in advance. Some shows sell out very quickly at The Lowry.
Read more: Best day trips from London
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Check Out The Very Best Of Great Britain!
