places to visit while in england

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 25 Best Things to Do in England

25 Best Things to Do in England

The name “England” was first taken from Englaland, which is derived from “land of the Angles”. The Angles were a Germanic tribe that resided in England during the Early Middle Ages.

Currently, the population of England stands at just over 53 million, most of which is located around the London area, London being the largest city in Europe in terms of populace. England also hosts over 600 miles of fascinating coastline in addition to a number of the world’s top tourist attractions.

The country is divided into nine separate regions, each of which has its own unique culture, history, and personality – from the charming villages of Cornwall and beautiful rolling hills in the Cotswolds, to the striking coastline in the North East and the bustling city life in the capital.

It really does make the perfect destination for those who wish to pay a quick visit or for those who are intent on savoring the experience over the longer term.

But let’s get on with the best things to do in England !

1. London: Chinatown

At the East End of London, during the beginning of the 20th century, many Chinese immigrants flocked to London and set about creating businesses as a way to cater to the throngs of Chinese sailors who frequented the docklands area.

Nevertheless, due to the World War II Blitz, a large inflow of immigrants from Hong Kong, and a growth in popularity of Chinese cuisine, many Chinese restaurants opened elsewhere.

Today, the finest Chinese cuisines can be found just off Shaftesbury Avenue.

2. Cambridge: Cambridge University

Cambridge University, which was founded in 1209, represents the fourth-oldest surviving university in the world (the oldest being the University of Karueein, Fez, Morocco).

These days, it is a collegiate university and is comprised of 31 colleges together with some 18,000 students. The university was first established when a group of scholars left the University of Oxford after having been involved in a dispute with the local townspeople.

Of particular note is Trinity College, with its exquisitely carved chapel, a masterpiece of architecture in the English Baroque style.

3. Cornwall: The Eden Project

The Eden Project in Cornwall represents a number of environmental and social projects all under the auspices of sustainable growth.

Visitors can view a variety of beautiful landscapes in addition to numerous works of art. It also plays home to regular music events and hosts a botanical and conservation research division.

The Eden Project is far more than a sizable horticultural theme park. It is a cultural revelation whereby visitors can learn through interactive displays together with detailed information given throughout the 10 hectares of natural wonder.

4. Liverpool: Maritime Mercantile City

Visitors to Liverpool’s Maritime Mercantile City can venture throughout the docklands and historic center.

The area relates the story of UK development throughout the preceding centuries, including the mass movement of emigrants to the United States, immigrants from northern Europe, and of the slave trade. Maritime Mercantile City is also the home to significant civic, commercial, and public buildings such as St. George’s Plateau.

Based on the recent drive for modernization, however, the area has been bestowed with the accolade of an endangered World Heritage Site, being one of only two such sites within all of Europe.

5. Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and Gloucestershire: Malvern Hills and Commons

Located in the counties of Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and Gloucestershire, the Malvern Hills and Commons provide for 3,000 acres of spectacular natural beauty.

The igneous and metamorphic rocks are regarded as among the oldest within Great Britain, and are dated at 680 million years.

To gain the best vantage point, it’s prudent to climb the Worcester Beacon, the summit of which stands at 1,394 ft. (424 m).

6. Northern England: Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall was once a defensive fortification built by the Romans from AD 122 onwards under the advocacy of Emperor Hadrian.

The wall stretches from Ravenglass on the west coast to Wallsend on the east coast. The wall served not only as a military fortification but also as a point for levy taxation and a customs post.

Visitors to the area can still view a significant portion of the wall, given that much of it was reconstructed during the 19th century by John Clayton.

7. Durham: Durham Castle

Durham Castle, which was erected during the 11th century, was initially a strong-point for King Norman, and served as a way for him to display his power and prestige throughout the northern regions of the country.

The castle is now occupied by University College, Durham, but it still offers a fine example of an early bailey and motte style castle.

It is open to the general public, albeit through pre-booked guided tours. The castle sits atop a hill in the Durham Peninsula and affords beautiful views over the River Wear and across to Durham Cathedral.

8. York: York Minster

Considered as one of the finest cathedrals in all of Great Britain, York Minster is likewise the largest in Northern Europe.

Among the highlights are the chapter house and the Gothic nave, together with the beautiful stained glass windows which date back to medieval times.

The Five Sisters Window stands out, stretching to over 52 ft. (16 m) in height.

York Minster was originally constructed in the 14th century as a way to demonstrate a clear Christian presence within England and far beyond.

9. London: The British Museum

The British Museum, which was established in 1753, plays host to numerous permanent collections of artifacts which number over 8 million pieces in all.

It holds some of the most prestigious and comprehensive collections hailing from every continent around the globe.

Doors open daily from 10 a.m. and close at 5.30 p.m. and 8.30 p.m. on Fridays. Entry is free of charge.

10. London: Royal Observatory, Greenwich

The Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London, has played a global role in the history of astronomy and navigation.I

t was established in 1675 by King Charles II with the key function being to “rectify the motions of the heavens and the places of the fixed stars and in order to find the desired longitude of places in order to master the art of navigation.”

With its vantage point overlooking the River Thames in central London, it makes for an excellent tourist attraction on a year-round basis.

The observatory is one of the features of Maritime Greenwich and was bestowed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.

11. London: Soho

Soho is known for its live entertainment, opulent cuisines, and of course for the pulsating nightlife.

Arguably, Soho is London’s center for gallant celebrations, be that music, art, literature, theater, fashion, food, or film.

Furthermore, for those who enjoy meandering around little quirky shops and then relaxing in the most fashionable and luxurious of hotels, Soho is the place to be. It boasts the most “creative” square mile in all of London.

12. Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire: William Shakespeare’s Home

For all those with a passion for literature, there’s no doubt that a thrilling experience is to be had upon visiting the home of Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire.

The sizable living quarters have been surprisingly well-preserved over the centuries since his birth in 1564, and you can still witness various remnants pertaining to the life of this outstanding poet, whom many regard as the most celebrated writer in the world of English literature.

13. Warwick, Warwickshire: Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is a medieval castle which dates back to 1068, and was built by William the Conqueror not long after the Norman Conquest. Originally, it was created using wooden motte and bailey, though it was then rebuilt in the 12th century using stone.

Until the early 17th century, it was utilized as a stronghold, after which it was gifted by King James I to Sir Fulke Greville and converted into a country dwelling.

It remained under the Greville family name until The Tussaud Group purchased it in 1978, at which point it was developed into a tourist attraction.

The castle is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

14. Cumbria: Lake District National Park

The Lake District National Park is frequently referred to as The Lakes and is famed due to the beautiful lakes, mountains, and surrounding forests.

It is associated with great writers such as the 19th Century poet William Wordsworth who would often meander the foothills.

Aside from the amazing landscapes, The Lakes are also recognized on account of the fact that the area plays host to the longest and deepest lake in England. Wastwater is 3 miles (4.6 km) long and 258 feet (79 m) deep.

15. London: Madam Tussaud’s Wax Museum

Madam Tussaud’s is a famous waxworks museum created by the wax sculptress Marie Tussaud.

The first Madam Tussaud’s museum, which opened in 1884, is located on Allsop Street, Marleybone, London, though there are now a variety of other branches within different cities around the globe.

The museum hosts lifelike figures, including royal people, film stars, sports stars, models, and infamous murderers.

A large section of the basement, known as The Chamber of Horrors, features historical characters from the French Revolution such as Robespierre, Marat, King Louis XVI, and Marie Antoinette, all of whom were modeled by Ms. Tussaud herself upon their death or execution.

The museum’s opening times vary depending on the season but in general the doors are open between 9.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. Monday through Sunday.

16. Cornwall: Lizard Peninsula

Lizard Peninsula is a peninsula in the southern part of Cornwall.

It is recognized for its rare botanical specimens and geological formations and belongs to Cornwall’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. According to some researchers, the name “Lizard” is taken from the Cornish name “Lys Ardh”, which literally translates to “high court”.

In previous centuries, the peninsula was frequently referred to as “Graveyard of Ships” on account of the number of vessels that came to a devastating end upon the coastal rocks.

17. East Devon to Dorset: Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site

Covering a distance of 95 miles (153 km.) and stretching along the coastline of the English Channel between East Devon and Dorset, the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site offers a unique insight into the Earth’s geological foundation.

Take a walk through time and marvel at the variety of rock formations which span through three of Earth’s time zones: Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous, 185 million years in all.

18. Gloucestershire: The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds, which mainly reside in the county of Gloucestershire, are a range of rolling hills that are dotted with small attractive towns and villages.

The name “Cotswold” comes from the stone, which is Jurassic limestone.

The Cotswolds are approximately 25 miles (40 km) wide and 90 miles (145 km) long.

Throughout the Middle Ages, it became a lucrative route for wool traders, and in turn, the entire area prospered. The highest point in the area is Cleeve Hill which stands at 1,083 ft. (330 m), and is just north of the large spa town of Cheltenham.

19. Woodstock, Oxfordshire: Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace represents the principal residence for the dukes of Marlborough.

Built in the English Baroque style, it’s the only non-episcopal non-royal country home in England to have been bestowed with the title of palace.

The home, which is one of the largest in England, was constructed between 1705 and 1722, and in 1987 it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The palace was the birthplace and ancestral home of arguably the most famed of British Prime Ministers – Sir Winston Churchill. The landscaped gardens are also notable, having been redesigned by such dignified landscapers as Capability Brown.

The palace opened to the general public in 1950. It closes between mid-December and mid-February but otherwise is open every day from 10.30 a.m. until 5.30 p.m.

20. London: Natural History Museum

Until 1992, the Natural History Museum in London was known as the British Museum.

It plays host to over 70 million life and earth science specimens, and visitors can witness collections which are related to zoology, mineralogy, entomology, and paleontology.

It is one of three museums on South Kensington’s Exhibition Road, and a number of the collections possess great scientific value such as specimens that were collected by the preeminent English naturalist and geologist Charles Darwin.

Doors open between 10 a.m. and 5.50 p.m. Monday through Sunday and admission is free of charge.

21. Berkshire: Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle, one of the British royal family’s residences, is located in the county of Berkshire.

It was originally built during the 11th century, not long after the Norman invasion led by William the Conqueror. Ever since Henry I came to the thrown in 1100, the castle has been utilized by succeeding monarchs, and represents the longest-occupied palace in all of Europe.

Originally, the castle was built to ensure Norman dominance within and around the outskirts of London, as well as to oversee what was then a particularly strategically important part of the River Thames.

It is now the favored weekend residence of the current British regent, Queen Elizabeth II, and also serves as a venue for state visits and as popular tourist attraction.

22. Pilton, Somerset: Glastonbury Festival

The Glastonbury Festival is a five-day music festival which is centered around raising funds for good causes such as Greenpeace, Oxfam, and WaterAid.

It has taken place almost every year since 1981 and attracts approximately 175,000 people making it the largest greenfield festival in the world.

Over the years, the festival has witnessed such favorites as Oasis, Elvis Costello, The Cure, Radiohead, Sir Paul McCartney, Rod Steward, and David Bowie.

Tickets for Glastonbury Festival are generally on sale from October for the forth-coming year, and the festival takes place during the last week of June.

23. Salisbury, Wiltshire: Salisbury Cathedral

Salisbury Cathedral, otherwise known as the Cathedral Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, was constructed in the 13th century.

It is a leading example of early English architecture, and possesses the tallest church spire in the entire country which stands at 404 ft. (123 m).

The church tower is open to the public and visitors can view the rather spectacular wooden innards of the ancient spire.

The cathedral also plays home to the world’s oldest working clock which was crafted in 1386, and the best surviving copy of the Magna Carta (there are four original copies in all) is safely held within the cathedral walls.

24. Canterbury, Kent: Canterbury Cathedral

Arguably the most popular of Christian structures within England, Canterbury Cathedral is the home to the Archbishop of Canterbury, the principal leader and senior bishop of the Church of England as well as the symbolic head of the global Anglican Communion.

The cathedral was founded in 597 and reconstructed between 1070 and 1077. Further renovation occurred in 1174 when it was bestowed with a more Gothic style at which point it housed pilgrims as they ventured to worship at the shrine of Thomas Becket, who was the Archbishop of Canterbury until the year 1170 when he was unceremoniously murdered.

25. Wiltshire: Stonehenge

Stonehenge in Wiltshire is considered to be among the most remarkable sites within the entire modern world.

The prehistoric monument, which comprises stones that reach up to 30 ft. (9 m) in height and weigh up to 25 tons (22.6 metric tons), is thought to have been constructed around 3,000 to 2,000 BC, though the exact dates remain open to question.

The site was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1986, and although it is not entirely clear as to its true purpose, a number of studies have suggested that Stonehenge was utilized as a burial ground by Neolithic and Bronze Age peoples.

25 Best Things to Do in England:

• London: Chinatown
• Cambridge: Cambridge University
• Cornwall: The Eden Project
• Liverpool: Maritime Mercantile City
• Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and Gloucestershire: Malvern Hills and Commons
• Northern England: Hadrian’s Wall
• Durham: Durham Castle
• York: York Minster
• London: The British Museum
• London: Royal Observatory, Greenwich
• London: Soho
• Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire: William Shakespeare’s Home
• Warwick, Warwickshire: Warwick Castle
• Cumbria: Lake District National Park
• London: Madam Tussaud’s Wax Museum
• Cornwall: Lizard Peninsula
• East Devon to Dorset: Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site
• Gloucestershire: The Cotswolds
• Woodstock, Oxfordshire: Blenheim Palace
• London: Natural History Museum
• Berkshire: Windsor Castle
• Pilton, Somerset: Glastonbury Festival
• Salisbury, Wiltshire: Salisbury Cathedral
• Canterbury, Kent: Canterbury Cathedral
• Wiltshire: Stonehenge

Foods to Try

Top Road Trips

Best Beaches

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

England's Airports

Top Destinations

One Week in England

Top Things to Do

The Top 20 Things to Do in England

 Noam Galai/GC Images

While many travelers coming to England spent their time in London, the country has a lot to offer outside the capital, from mountainous hiking to seaside walks to famous theaters. Whether you want to experience history and culture or simply enjoy England's delicious food and drinks, there's something to do for every type of traveler. Here are the top 20 things to do around England.

Take a Walking Tour of London

John Keeble/Getty Images

The best way to see London is on foot. The British capital is very walkable, with many famous attractions within close proximity to the city center. Start in Parliament Square, where you can see Westminster Abbey , the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben . Visitors can also get a great photo of the Thames and the London Eye from Westminster Bridge. From there, it's a quick walk to Buckingham Palace or to Trafalgar Square, where you'll find the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery. Other nearby attractions include the Churchill War Rooms, Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus, and the Tate Modern , which can be found across the Thames on Southbank. If it's raining or if you have mobility issues, jump on one of the double-decker London buses or grab a ticket for the Hop On Hop Off London Bus Tours , which drive by many of the iconic sites.

Visit Stonehenge

Stonehenge is an iconic site for a reason, and its mysterious stones compel thousands of travelers every year. The Neolithic structure, a World Heritage Site, is easily accessible from London, either via car or day tour, and visitors will see the famous stone circle and ancient houses and a museum that details the area's history. It's impressive in itself, but history buffs should include stops at nearby Woodhenge, a historic burial ground, or Old Sarum, home to the ruins of a cathedral and castle, on their journey to Stonehenge. Book tickets for Stonehenge in advance online (look for an off-peak day to save money).

See a Play in Stratford-upon-Avon

Shakespeare's birthplace, Stratford-Upon-Avon, is filled with the legacy of the Bard, including his father's former home and Anne Hathaway's cottage. The Royal Shakespeare Company performs plays in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Swan Theatre, and it's a great treat to see one while in England. It's common for bigger-name actors, like Sir Ian McKellen, to appear in the plays, but you really can't go wrong with tickets to any local productions. The Royal Shakespeare Company also offers tours of the theaters, which take visitors behind the scenes. There is a special Family Fun Tour for kids to learn about putting on a Shakespeare play.

Stroll the Jurassic Coast

John Harper/Getty Images

While many visitors may be familiar with the iconic white cliffs of Dover, England's Jurassic Coast offers even more dramatic vistas. The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the English Channel from East Devon to Dorset , stretches 95 miles and reveals 185 million years of the Earth's history in its geology. It's well-known area for fossil hunting, and many of the rocks and fossils found along the coast date back to the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. Opt for a guided walk in Lyme Regis or Charmouth to scour for fossils yourself. The Museum of Jurassic Marine Life in Kimmeridge also hosts tours, which are a good way to learn about the region's history and experience the coastline firsthand. There are also several popular walking routes in Dorset, including Old Harry Rocks, which begins at Studland Bay, and a trek from Bowleaze Cove to Smuggler’s Inn.

Dance at Glastonbury

England is home to several famed music festivals, but its biggest—and most raucous —is Glastonbury . The five-day festival is held in Somerset on a private farm every June, featuring live music, theater, comedy, and more. Most festival-goers camp onsite, which can get pretty muddy. Tickets sell out very quickly, but Glastonbury is beloved for a reason. It attracts the biggest acts in music, from Paul McCartney to Beyonce to Coldplay, and it's the sort of thing you have to experience to believe. The festival welcomes all ages, although an adult must accompany those under 16.

Eat Seafood in Whitstable

Courtesy of Whitstable Oyster Co

The seaside town of Whitstable, located on the coast of Kent, hosts the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival each summer. Of course, you can chow down on delicious seafood there any time of year at one of its many restaurants. Look for The Lobster Shack, The Marine Hotel Restaurant, and Crab and Winkle to taste the local catches, or grab a table at The Whitstable Oyster Company , which serves up the best oysters in town. The restaurant has views of the beach and its own oyster beds, where the famous Whitstable oysters are harvested.

Watch Football in Manchester

Richard Heathcote/Getty Images

England's football (a.k.a. soccer) culture runs deep, but it's powerful in Manchester. The northern city is home to several teams , including Manchester United and Manchester City. While it can be challenging to get tickets to Premier League matches, it's a bucket list experience for many travelers, especially if you're a soccer fan. Snag tickets to one of the matches at Etihad Stadium or Old Trafford while in Manchester, or head into one of the city's boisterous sports bars to cheer alongside the locals. Some favorites include Tib Street Tavern Manchester and Cafe Football, which is located in Old Trafford.

Bathe in Thermal Waters in Bath

Bath was once home to the Roman Baths, which still exist in ruins, and today visitors can partake in the healing waters of the region. The Thermae Bath Spa , which has a rooftop pool with views of the cathedral, makes for a relaxing day out. There are two mineral baths, and each session lasts two hours. The pools are only for visitors 16 and over, so be sure to find a babysitter if you're traveling with kids. To take advantage of your trip to Bath, book into The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, which is located in the town's famed Royal Crescent, and tour the Roman Baths, which are part historic ruin and part museum.

Punt in Cambridge

If you've never been punting, Cambridge is a good place to learn. The River Cam stretches through the center of the university town, and there are various places to hire a boat along the river. Look for companies like Let's Go Punting , which takes visitors on 50-minute private or shared punting boat tours between Magdalene College and Silver Street Bridge. Scudamore's is another popular option for tours, and the company also offers champagne and afternoon tea tours, where you can drink while your guide steers you down the river. Prefer to do it yourself? Rent a boat for a few hours and learn the art of guiding a vessel with a pole.

Explore History in York

Hop on a train two hours north from London to discover York, a walled city that the Romans founded. It's home to a 13th-century Gothic cathedral called the York Minster (be sure to climb to the top of the tower for some serious views) and the Shambles, a very narrow medieval street with overhanging buildings. It's rumored that the Shambles inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter, although you won't find any wizarding shops in the area. York has some nice pubs and tea rooms, and its downtown has great shopping. Be sure to take a stroll around the city walls , which extend for two miles and are open daily to the public from 8 a.m. until dusk.

Tour Windsor Castle

 Scott E Barbour/Getty Images

Windsor Castle, home of Queen Elizabeth II, is one of Britain's most iconic landmarks and its proximity to London makes it a must-do on any itinerary. The castle welcomes visitors year-round for paid tours of the castle's rooms and grounds, including St. George's Chapel, where Harry and Meghan got married. Timed tickets can be booked online in advance. Check the opening times, which can vary throughout the year, and be sure to give yourself enough time in Windsor to tour the castle and explore the surrounding town. Tours of Windsor Castle are self-guided with a multimedia guide, and it's a great excursion for kids and adults. The castle is also fully accessible and offers discounts for guests with disabilities.

Drive Through the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds spans nearly 800 square miles, containing numerous quaint villages and expanses of rolling green hills. The area is one of England's most beautiful and it's best experienced with a car, which allows travelers to visit several towns in one swoop. Some of the favorite villages include Cheltenham, Stroud, Broadway, Burford, and Bourton on Water, which has been called the Venice of the Cotswolds. All of them are equally charming and filled with small shops, tea rooms, and cafes, as well as historic hotels and B&Bs. Stop by one of the National Trust properties, like Newark Park, Chedworth Roman Villa, or Buscot Park, and be sure to spend a few hours exploring Blenheim Palace.

Surf in Cornwall

Located on the southwestern tip of England, Cornwall draws surfers worldwide to its scenic beaches. The coast, dubbed the Cornish Riviera, has hundreds of beaches, several of which are famous for catching a wave. Head to Fistral Beach in Newquay or Gwithian Beach in Hayle to spot the experts, or rent a board to try your hand at the sport. If you want some lessons, there are numerous surf schools for beginners in Cornwall, including the Fistral Beach Surf School, which is open year-round. While in Cornwall , don't miss the Eden Project, the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, and Pendennis Castle.

Hike the Lake District

The Lake District, located in Cumbria, is one of England's most picturesque destinations, welcoming travelers to its mountains, lakes, and villages year-round. It's especially compelling for hikers, who will find many trails and routes through the national park and surrounding areas. Summit Scafell Pike or trek the Roman High Street Circuit, which extends along an old Roman road. Those who want a little help learning the routes can join a guided walk , which the Lake District offers from April through October. If you want a real challenge, go for the Three Peaks Challenge , which includes Scafell Pike along with Scotland's Ben Nevis and Wales' Snowdon.

Trail the Beatles in Liverpool

Getty Images

Liverpool, a city in northwest England, located at the meeting point between the River Mersey and the Irish Sea, is best known as the birthplace of the Beatles. And while the city has lots to see and do, it's the Fab Four who really draw visitors. Visit the Cavern Club, a venue that once saw the band onstage, or hop on their Magical Mystery Tour , which stops by the musicians' former homes, Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields. There's also the Liverpool Beatles Museum and the annual Liverpool Beatles Week, which takes place in August. The Hard Days Night Hotel is the world's only Beatles-inspired hotel, and guests can book themed suites or see live music in the lounge. If you have time between Beatles-inspired excursions, be sure to also stop by the Tate Liverpool, the Museum of Liverpool, Liverpool Cathedral, and the Merseyside Maritime Museum.

Dine in Bray

Dan Kitwood/Getty Images 

Bray, a small village located just outside London on the Thames, is home to several of England's best restaurants, including Heston Blumenthal's The Fat Duck , which has three Michelin stars. It can be tricky to get a reservation to the pricy Fat Duck (although it's worth it), but visitors have plenty of other options. The Waterside Inn, The Crown, and The Hind's Head, which Blumenthal also runs, are delicious and slightly easier to book. If you want to stay in town, The Waterside Inn has several rooms, or head to nearby Maidenhead, situated alongside the river. It's a must-visit for all foodies, but history buffs will also appreciate the old buildings and small-town charm in Bray.

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Cliveden House

Cliveden House

Afternoon tea is one of those British things you can't—and shouldn't—avoid while in England. Most hotels offer a version of afternoon tea, especially in London, and it's also traditional in various tea rooms around the country. But if you're going to partake in an afternoon of milky tea and scones, you should reserve a table at the best possible venue. The historic Cliveden House Hotel , found outside London on National Trust gardens, is just the spot. It's a luxury experience best enjoyed with added champagne (although kids are also welcome). It's held in the hotel's Great Hall on Sundays and in the Cliveden Dining Room Monday through Saturday, and it's best to make a reservation well in advance. Don't be afraid to ask for your leftovers. The hotel will be happy to box up any extra treats later, as is common with most high-end afternoon teas.

Visit the Real Downtown Abbey

While Downton Abbey isn't a real place, the castle in the beloved TV series (and movie) is. Highclere Castle, located in Winchester, was built in 1679 and is now home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon. Highclere, which has expansive, beautiful grounds and gardens, welcomes visitors at different points throughout the year. The visiting times can vary, so check the online calendar for the best time to explore the castle and look for upcoming special events held at Highclere throughout the year. The castle is best accessed by car (it has parking for visitors), but you can take a taxi from the nearby Newbury train station, which connects with London. Don't miss Highclere's tea rooms, which are great for a snack after your tour.

Tour Canterbury Cathedral

You could spend a lot of time touring historic cathedrals while in England, but the most famous is Canterbury Cathedral. Part of a World Heritage Site, the cathedral, located in Canterbury, was founded in 597 and rebuilt in the 11th century. It's the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury, who leads the Church of England, and offers services weekly. You don't have to be religious to appreciate the impressive structure's history and architecture, however. A million people per year visit the building to see everything from St. Gabriel’s Chapel to The Great Cloister.

Take a Ride on Brighton Pier

Brighton Pier first opened on the English seaside in 1899, spanning 1,722 feet over the water. It's hosted visitors and locals ever since, with a particular draw for families. Look for rides like the Turbo Coaster and the Booster, or head to the Palace of Fun to win a prize at one of the games. Brighton is only an hour from London by train, making a great day trip from the city, and the beaches are especially welcoming during the summer months. If you like music, head to Brighton in May when it puts on The Great Escape, a music festival that takes over all area venues.

The 16 Best Beaches in England

The 12 Best Things to Do in Colchester, England

The Top 10 Things to Do in Halifax, England

The Top 10 Things to Do in Birmingham, England

The Top 12 Things to Do in Winchester, England

Top 12 Things to Do in Suffolk, England

The Top 10 Things to Do in Dorset, England

Top 10 Things to Do in Blackpool, England

The Top 10 Things to Do in Chester, England

The Top 15 Things to Do in Norwich, England

The Top 7 Things to Do in England's Thames Valley

Top 18 Things to Do in the Midlands of England

The Top 10 Things to Do in Windsor, England

15 Top Things to Do in Cornwall

The Top 9 Things to Do in Salisbury, England

The Top 10 Things to Do in Bournemouth, England

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in England

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Feb 21, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

A former resident of the UK and now a frequent visitor, Author Bryan Dearsley spent eight weeks touring England in the summer of 2022 while on assignment for Planetware .

One of the most popular travel destinations in the world , England offers almost endless possibilities for vacationers seeking things to do and top attractions to visit.

Part of the beautiful British Isles, this small but influential country bursts with fascinating history, exciting cities, and rich cultural traditions. Historic sites are at every turn, from prehistoric megaliths and ancient Roman sites to centuries-old castles and town centers dating back to the Middle Ages .

England is also extremely easy to get around, with its most popular tourist destinations well connected by trains and buses. Alternatively, you can drive between points of interest on a well-planned system of motorways. Whether you choose to tour the country by car or public transport, you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

To help you get the most out of your travel itinerary, be sure to use our list of the best places to visit in England.

1. Stonehenge, Wiltshire

2. tower of london, city of london, 3. the roman baths and georgian city of bath, somerset, 4. the british museum, bloomsbury, london, 5. york minster and historic yorkshire, 6. windsor castle, berkshire, 7. chester zoo, cheshire, 8. lake district national park, cumbria, 9. canterbury cathedral, kent, 10. liverpool & the beatles, merseyside, 11. eden project, cornwall, 12. the cotswolds, 13. the national gallery, city of westminster, london, 14. warwick castle, warwickshire, 15. tate modern, southwark, london, 16. royal museums greenwich, london.

Stonehenge , 10 miles north of the historic city of Salisbury on Salisbury Plain, is Europe's best-known prehistoric monument. It's so popular that visitors need to purchase a timed ticket in advance to guarantee entry.

Exhibitions at the excellent Stonehenge Visitor Centre set the stage for a visit. Here, you'll find displays explaining through audio-visual experiences and more than 250 ancient objects how the megaliths were erected between 3000 and 1500 BCE. They also offer fascinating insights and information about life during this time.

After walking around the various viewing points adjacent to these enormous stones, visit the authentic replicas of Neolithic Houses to see the tools and implements of everyday Neolithic life. A highlight is watching staff, and volunteers provide demonstrations of traditional skills from 4,500 years ago.

Although you can no longer go inside the circle to wander among the stones during normal opening hours, you can reserve special early morning or late evening access into the circle through English Heritage, which manages the site.

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

Prison, palace, treasure vault, observatory, and menagerie: the Tower of London has done it all and it's one of the top attractions in London . Widely considered the most important building in England, there's enough to see and do at this World Heritage Site to keep visitors busy for hours.

The centerpiece of this Thames-side fortress is the White Tower . Built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, it's home to amazing exhibits, such as Line of Kings. The world's oldest visitor attraction , the collection was established in 1652 with a remarkable display of royal armor.

Other highlights include the impressive Crown Jewels exhibition, classic Yeoman Warder Tours, the Royal Mint, and exhibits and displays regarding prisoners and executions. All told, the Tower of London covers some 18 acres, so there's a great deal of exploring to do.

If you're traveling with children, be sure to check for special events for kids. These include a fun "Knights School" and other immersive programs that provide a fun insight into the castle's history.

• Read More: Visiting the Tower of London: Top Attractions, Tips & Tours

If you only have time to visit one of the nicest small cities in England , you couldn't do much better than Bath. This remarkably beautiful city in Somerset boasts more fantastic tourist attractions than you could hope to visit in a day.

While most famous for the magnificent 2,000-year-old Roman Baths built around the city's rejuvenating hot springs, it's equally well known for its honey-colored Georgian Townhouses , such as those located on Royal Crescent. One of them, #1 Royal Crescent, is open to the public and offers a fascinating look at life in Bath during the Georgian period. Some 500 of the city's buildings are considered of historical or architectural importance, a fact that has resulted in the entire city being granted World Heritage status.

Among the most interesting to visit today are the Holborne Museum with its large collections of artworks, silver, and period furniture; the famous Assembly Rooms, star of countless period dramas on TV and home to the interesting Fashion Museum ; and the Jane Austen Centre and its neighbor Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein, which tell the stories of two of Bath's most famous residents.

Bath also makes an ideal location from which to explore some of England's most stunning countryside, including the Avon Valley, the Mendip Hills, the Cotswolds, and countless other fantastic Somerset landmarks.

With collections of antiquities that are among the world's finest, a visit to the British Museum is undoubtedly one of the top free things to do in London . This superb museum holds more than 13 million artifacts from Assyria, Babylonia, Egypt, Greece, the Roman Empire, China, and Europe. The most famous ancient artifacts are the Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon in Athens, as well as the famous Rosetta Stone .

But there are many other outstanding pieces on show here that help make this one of the best places to visit in London. The Ancient Egyptian collection is the largest outside of Cairo, and the hoard of Roman silver dating from the fourth century known as the Mildenhall Treasure, unearthed in Suffolk in 1942, is nothing short of spectacular.

If you've got time, be sure to look into joining a guided tour or participate in a workshop or lecture. Fun private after-hour tours are also available. Dining and shopping opportunities are also located on-site.

Address: Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London, England

Official site: www.britishmuseum.org

Magnificent York Minster is second in importance in the Church of England only to the cathedral at Canterbury. It stands in the center of the historic city of York, surrounded by half-timbered homes and shops, medieval guildhalls, and churches.

In turn, York's romantic streets are surrounded by three miles of magnificent town walls that you can walk atop for spectacular views over the city and its surroundings. While here, visit the National Railway Museum , one of England's most visited tourist attractions.

York is also a good base from which to explore northeast England, in particular the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. Elsewhere in this corner of the country, you'll find some of England's most beautiful historic towns and cities, including Durham , famous for its castle and cathedral, and Beverley , which also boasts an attractive minster.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England

England is a country that's deeply rooted in tradition, history, pageantry, and pomp. Little surprise, then, that some of the biggest draws for tourists here revolve around the Royal Family, who have played an important role in shaping the country, along with many other parts of the world, for centuries.

If you've only got time to squeeze in one royal attraction, make it Windsor Castle. An easy 40-minute train ride from Central London, Windsor Castle is famous as one of the Royal Family's official residences, and throws its doors open to visitors regularly when the King is away.

And it's rich in history, able to trace its roots all the way back to the 11th century, when a triumphant William the Conqueror had a fortress erected on this very spot. Highlights of a visit to Windsor Castle include the castle's chapel, the State Apartments, as well as the magnificent Queen's Gallery.

And bring your walking shoes. The grounds are huge, stretching for some six miles around the castle and providing some of the best selfie opportunities anywhere with this historic building as a backdrop.

Address: Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire, England

Located in Upton in Cheshire, just over a mile north of Chester city center, Chester Zoo is England's most visited attraction outside of London and is one of the best places to visit in England for families.

The more than 11,000 animals living in this 125-acre site represent about 400 different species. But the zoo's appeal reaches beyond just animal lovers, with prizewinning landscaped gardens also available for visitors to enjoy.

You can tour these extensive grounds on the zoo's monorail system to reach highlights that include Chimpanzee Island, a penguin pool, and Europe's largest tropical house. There's plenty of other fun things to do at Chester Zoo, too, so expect to easily spend a day enjoying this top-rated tourist attraction.

While in Chester, take time to walk its old city walls , the best preserved of their kind in Britain. You should also spend time exploring Chester's other distinctive feature: its galleried walkways . Known as the "Chester' Rows," these impressive medieval architectural gems run the full length of stone and half-timbered buildings dating from the 14th century, and make for a unique and picturesque setting.

Chester Cathedral is also worth exploring if you can squeeze it into your travel itinerary. So, too, are Lower Bridge Street and Watergate Street, both of them home to numerous picturesque old buildings.

Address: Cedar House, Caughall Road, Chester, Cheshire, England

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chester

Covering some 900 square miles, Lake District National Park is a must-visit destination for travelers to England. With 12 of the country's largest lakes and more than 2,000 miles of rights of way waiting to be explored, there's little wonder the region continues to inspire, with its magnificent views and scenery straight out of a painting.

Other things to do include visiting the park's many fells, including Scafell Pike which at 3,210 feet is the highest mountain in England. Be sure to also spend time exploring some of the lovely little towns and villages dotted throughout the region, such as Grasmere.

Better still, hop aboard a tour boat excursion across Lake Windermere and Ullswater, and you'll be rewarded with some of the best scenery anywhere in the country.

Address: Murley Moss, Oxenholme Road, Kendal, Cumbria, England

Located in the heart of the historic city that bears its name, Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is home to the Archbishop of Canterbury and is the cradle of English Christianity.

It all started when St. Augustine converted the pagan Anglo Saxons here in 597 when he became the first bishop. Excellent guided tours of the cathedral are available, and for a truly memorable experience, consider booking an overnight stay in the grounds at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge .

But there's much more to this beautiful medieval city than just its cathedral. Canterbury is also a popular cultural and entertainment destination with great shopping, galleries, and cafés, as well as attractions such as those focused on Chaucer's medieval England and the city's Roman past.

Some of the other best places to visit in Canterbury include the Old City, the ruins of St. Augustine's Abbey, and medieval Beaney House.

Address: 11 The Precincts, Canterbury, Kent, England

• Read More: Murder & Majesty: Top Highlights of Canterbury Cathedral

As English as an afternoon tea, references to The Beatles are everywhere in Liverpool. Located in the northwest of the country, Liverpool is around three hours from London by rail and offers music fans plenty of opportunities to soak up some city sites , along with Fab-Four-related attractions.

Topping your list should be The Beatles Story. Located in the revitalized Albert Dock area of the city, this fun museum features enough facts and exhibits to keep the biggest fans busy for hours. Other related points of interest in Liverpool include visiting the famous Cavern Club, along with the real places about which they sang, including Strawberry Fields and Penny Lane.

Other must-dos include themed walks and guided tours, visiting the former homes of Paul McCartney and John Lennon, and getting in some souvenir shopping at The Beatles Shop, located just steps away from the Cavern Club.

The incredible Eden Project is a collection of unique artificial biomes containing an amazing collection of plants from around the world.

Located in a reclaimed quarry in Cornwall, this spectacular botanical gardens complex consists of huge domes that look rather like massive igloo-shaped greenhouses. Each of these impressive (and futuristic-looking) buildings houses thousands of different plant species in tropical and Mediterranean environments.

As well as these stunning displays of plant life, the Eden Project hosts numerous arts and music events year-round. If you're able to extend your visit, consider booking a stay at the on-site hostel, or enjoy a meal in one of its restaurants. Adventure activities such as ziplining and giant swings are also available.

Address: Bodelva, Par, Cornwall, England

The Cotswolds cover some 787 square miles and encompass parts of some of England's prettiest counties: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Somerset, Worcestershire, and Warwickshire. And all of it begs to be explored.

Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty due to its rare limestone grassland habitats and old-growth beech woodlands, the beauty of the Cotswolds has much to do with its quaint villages and towns , such as Castle Combe, Chipping Norton, and Tetbury.

Like so much of England, the Cotswolds is perfect to discover on foot. One of the best routes is along the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile footpath with spectacular views of the Severn Valley and the Vale of Evesham. This route runs the length of the Cotswolds, and can be picked up pretty much anywhere you visit.

Displaying one of the most comprehensive collections of paintings in the world, the National Gallery is London's second-most visited museum. The collections, which present an almost complete cross-section of European painting from 1260 until 1920 , are especially strong in the Dutch Masters and the Italian Schools of the 15th and 16th centuries.

In the Italian galleries, look for works by Fra Angelico, Giotto, Bellini, Botticelli, Correggio, Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese. It's also where you'll find Leonardo da Vinci's Madonna and Child with St. Anne and John the Baptist , Raphael's The Crucifixion , and The Entombment by Michelangelo.

In the German and Dutch galleries are works by Dürer, van Dyck, Frans Hals, Vermeer, and Rembrandt. Among artists from the 18th century through 1920, standout works are by Hogarth, Reynolds, Sargent, Gainsborough, Constable, and Turner. French works include those by Ingres, Delacroix, Daumier, Monet (including The Water-Lily Pond ), Manet, Degas, Renoir, and Cezanne.

With no-cost admission, a visit to the National Gallery is one of the top things to do in London for free. Guided tours and lunchtime lectures are also available for free and are highly recommended.

Address: Trafalgar Square, City of Westminster, London, England

If you're looking for a truly memorable English excursion for the whole family, and one that offers a fascinating insight into life in medieval times, you couldn't do much better than visit Warwick Castle.

Located in the beautiful city of Warwick on the River Avon, this impressive fortress has dominated the landscape and history of the region for more than 900 years. Today, it serves as a backdrop to medieval-themed events and reenactments, from jousting festivals to fairs and concerts.

Warwick is also great base from which to explore the Cotswolds, as well as nearby towns such as Stratford-upon-Avon , famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Bigger city destinations, including Liverpool , hometown of The Beatles, as well as Birmingham and Coventry , are an easy drive away.

Address: Stratford Road / West Street, Warwick, Warwickshire, England

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Warwick, England

When the Tate Modern opened its new 10-storey extension in June 2016, adding 60 percent more gallery space, visitor numbers jumped by almost one-fourth, making it one of England's most visited attractions.

Now regarded as among the world's best and certainly one of the largest, museums of modern and contemporary art, the Tate Modern shows a wide range of artistic expression, including paintings, works on paper, sculpture, films, performances, installations, and other forms of artistic expression.

Among the well-known artists represented here are Picasso, Rothko, Dali, Matisse, and Modigliani. Be sure to go to the viewing level for 360-degree views of the London skyline and the River Thames far below.

Other galleries under the Tate umbrella that you should consider visiting in England include Tate Britain (also in London), Tate Liverpool , and Tate St. Ives in Cornwall.

Address: Bankside, Southwark, London

Official site: www.tate.org.uk

Downstream from Tower Bridge, Greenwich is the London base of the Royal Navy and holds England's largest expanses of preserved historic architecture and parks. And although lovers of things maritime will certainly gravitate to Greenwich, there's a lot more there than just ships and boats here.

The highlight for most visitors is the Cutty Sark , the last surviving of the 19th-century clippers from the lucrative tea trade between Britain and China. Built in 1869, the Cutty Sark was one of the finest and fastest ships of its day, and you can board it to explore the clipper, from its figure head to the sailors' quarters below decks. For a special treat, book an afternoon tea overlooking the ship.

At the Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre , exhibits showcase more than 500 years of maritime history. In Queen's House , the National Maritime Museum is the largest of its kind in the world, featuring the Royal Navy from Tudor times to the Napoleonic Wars.

Greenwich Park , dating from the 15th century and the oldest of London's eight Royal Parks, is filled with beautiful gardens and walking paths, and here you'll find the Old Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian Line , marked by a steel rod in the floor of the Meridian Building. This is the zero meridian of longitude, dividing the world into eastern and western halves; you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere.

If you're hungry, add a great English breakfast from Heap's Sausage Cafe to your list of things to do in Greenwich.

Address: King William Walk, Greenwich, London, England

Official site: www.rmg.co.uk

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in London's Greenwich & Docklands Districts

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Plan a City Fix: After touring the best places to visit in London, you may want to see more of England's great cities. The largest of these, including Manchester , Liverpool , Birmingham , and Bristol , are all easy to reach by train. From the latter, you can easily nip over into wonderful Wales to visit its lively capital of Cardiff .

Beyond Borders: If you're visiting the popular attractions in Chester , cross into North Wales and perhaps on to Snowdonia National Park . North of England is Bonnie Scotland, with its glorious highlands and art-rich cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh . With the "Chunnel" speeding up crossing the English Channel by the EuroStar, you can be in the French capital of Paris in only 2.5 hours.

More on England

Best things to do in England

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• best-things-to-do-in-england

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 23.05.2024

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to England , your essential guide for visiting England .

1. Discover the Lake District National Park, Cumbria

2. experience the wilderness of dartmoor, southern england, 3. visiting the houses of parliament - one of the best things to do in england, 4. relax in the serenity of the cotswolds, 5. enjoy the views of the medieval northumbrian castles, the northumberland coast, 6. take a walk through the streets of oxford, 7. explore the ancient avebury stone circle, 8. take a long walk around the hadrian’s wall path, 9. have a blast at the glastonbury music festival, 10. go surfing in newquay, 11. dip into a hot spring roman bath at bath, 12. tasting the original fish and chips - sure thing to do in england for foodies, 13. visit the eden project, cornwall, 14. stroll the new forest, south england, 15. shop local produce at one of the many farmers’ markets, 16. feel the reverence in the windsor castle, 17. combine a beach holiday with an artistic experience at st ives, cornwall, 18. punting on the cam in cambridge - fun thing to do in england, 19. take a look at the dinosaurs in the natural history museum, london, 20. experience the gothic atmosphere at york minster, york, 21. visit one of the many stately homes, oxford, 22. enter the mysterious canterbury cathedral, 23. relax on the seaside of southwold, 24. dive into the nightlife in newcastle, 25. marvel at the luxury of the royal pavilion, brighton, 26. get your art fix at tate modern, london.

• 27. Visit Shakespeare's birthplace - Stratford-upon-Avon

28. Treat yourself to the afternoon tea

29. enjoy the scenery of the durdle door, lulworth cove, 30. visit the great medieval warwick castle, warwick, travel ideas for england, created by local experts.

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

Walking around vintage England and picturesque Scotland

Visit two traditional capitals, London and Edinburgh, and enjoy a trek through the Loch Lomond national park. This trip will let you discover peaceful Scottish islands by foot, with several days of detailed walking tours included in the trip.

Hiking in out-of-the way Northern Cornwall

Northern Cornwall is a hiker's paradise and this itinerary includes the most scenic parts. You will start your journey in London with some unique activities to get to know the city, before setting off on a 5-day walk across Cornwall. End your trip in Bath and explore the backdrop of Bridgerton.

A walking holiday on the Jurassic Coast

Walking the Jurassic Coast is one of the best ways to truly appreciate the spectacular scenery. Walks range from easy to challenging. 6 days walking are included in this itinerary, as is an extensive pre-program in London and a last night back in the capital.

One of the best things to do in England is undoubtedly to visit Lake District National Park .

The largest national park in England is also many peoples’ favourite place to visit in summer , boasting sixteen major lakes, including Ullswater and Windermere and scores of mountains, not least the country’s highest peak, Scafell Pike.

Given a week you could easily see most of the famous settlements and lakes – a circuit taking in Windermere, with the towns of Ambleside, Windermere and Bowness dotted around it. Coniston, with its lake and famous peak, the Wordsworth houses in Grasmere, the picture-postcard village of Hawkshead, and the more dramatic northern scenery near Keswick and Ullswater would give you a fair sample of the whole.

Check out our guide about the best places in the Lake District in Cumbria to plan your trip.

Ullswater Lake curves through the mountains of the English Lake District at Glenridding © Joe Dunckley/Shutterstock

Where to stay in the Lake District:

• Briery Wood Hotel

Set close to Lake Windermere, just a 5-minute walk from Long Wood Bay Watersports Centre and a 2-minute drive from Ambleside, Briery Wood Hotel is surrounded by peaceful fields and woodland. The traditional property has its restaurant looking out onto landscaped gardens.

• Walkers Rest

Walkers Rest is located in Windermere, 7 km from Lake Windermere and 38 km from Derwentwater, in an area where cycling can be enjoyed. Set 1.9 km from World of Beatrix Potter, the property offers a garden and free private parking.

Visiting Dartmoor , the greatest expanse of wilderness in Southern England is a perfect thing to do in England for hikers and riders alike. It was not always so desolate, as testified by the remnants of scattered Stone Age settlements and the ruined relics of the area’s nineteenth-century tin-mining industry.

The core of Dartmoor, characterized by tumbling streams and high tors chiselled by the elements, has belonged to the Duchy of Cornwall since 1307, though there is almost unlimited public access today. However, note that camping should be out of sight of houses and roads, fires are strictly forbidden, no vehicles are permitted beyond fifteen yards from the road and overnight parking is only allowed in authorized places.

Dartmoors landscape at sunset © EvolvePhoto/Shutterstock

Where to stay near Dartmoor:

• Duchy House Bed and Breakfast

Located in the heart of Dartmoor National Park, Duchy House Bed and Breakfast is nestled in the village of Princetown. Surrounded by hiking trails, the property offers free WiFi access and free on-site parking.

• Dartmoor Inn

Boasting a restaurant, bar and views of the garden, Dartmoor Inn is situated in Princetown, 30 km from Plymouth Pavilions. The property is set 30 km from Plymouth Hoe, 41 km from Newton Abbot Racecourse and 15 km from Morwellham Quay. Marsh Mills is 28 km from the inn and Cathedral Church of St Mary and St Boniface is 30 km away.

One of the most majestic buildings in London is the Houses of Parliament , where you can see the “Mother of all Parliaments” at work from the public gallery or take a summertime tour.

Perhaps it is London’s best-known monument thanks to its instantly recognizable, ornate, gilded clocktower popularly known as Big Ben, after the thirteen-tonne main bell that strikes the hour. After four years of silence, as the tower underwent essential repairs, the bongs began ringing out once again in 2022.

The original medieval palace burned down in 1834. Everything you see now – save for Westminster Hall – is the work of Charles Barry, who created an orgy of honey-coloured pinnacles, turrets and tracery that attempts to express national greatness through the use of Gothic and Elizabethan styles.

If you're a fan of walking, London has a variety of walking routes to suit all tastes. Read our guide to the best walks in London and choose one of the attractive routes to explore the beauty of the city.

River view of Big Ben and Houses of Parliament © S.Borisov/Shutterstock

Where to stay near the Houses of Parliament:

• Artist Residence London

A 10-bedroom award-winning hotel just 10 minutes' walk from Victoria and its rail and tube station. This stylish property offers individually designed rooms and an all-day restaurant.

Take time out and relax in the Cotswolds , the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England, poised between Oxford and Gloucester . Among the main attractions are rolling hills, honey-stone villages and great walking.

Here in the Cotswolds , the hills are high and wild, but rarely bleak, and simple stone cottages combine with church, manor house and tithe barn to create a picture of timeless beauty . The stone here is plentiful and it is this stone that gives the region its character. It creates a harmonious landscape of fields bounded by drystone walls, churches with majestic towers, opulent townhouses, stately homes and humble cottages.

Peaceful Cotswolds scenery makes travelling here one of the best things to do in England © iPics/Shutterstock

Where to stay in the Cotswolds:

• Cornerstone Cottage

Cornerstone Cottage is located in Chipping Campden, 19 km from Royal Shakespeare Theatre and 19 km from the Royal Shakespeare Company, in an area where hiking can be enjoyed. Set 3.7 km from Weston Park, the property offers a garden and free private parking.

Related articles from the blog

Symbols of a turbulent past, Northumberland’s many fortresses are worth a visit, especially mighty Alnwick Castle with its stunning medieval gardens.

Other Northumbrian castles worth mentioning are the Bamburgh Castle and the Chillingham Castle .

Solid and chunky, Bamburgh Castle is a spectacular sight, its elongated battlements crowning a formidable basalt crag high above the beach. Its origins lie in Anglo-Saxon times, but it suffered a centuries-long decline – rotted by sea spray and buffeted by winter storms.

Chillingham Castle started life as an eleventh-century tower. The castle was augmented at regular intervals until the nineteenth century, but from 1933 was largely left to the elements for fifty years, until the present owner set about restoring it in his own individualistic way. It describes itself as Britain’s most haunted castle; you can spend the night here if you dare .

Visiting Alnwick castle is surely the adventurous thing to do in England © Gail Johnson/Shutterstock

If you are looking for more castles to visit in England check our list of the most impressive castles in England

Where to stay near Northumbrian castles:

Situated within the centre of the historic town of Alnwick, Tate House offers room-only accommodation with en-suite facilities. Tate House is opposite the famous Alnwick Gardens and Treehouse. The property offers a large lounge for guests' comfort.

The Radcliffe Camera stands at the centre of the old university town of Oxford, famed for its sublime architecture and lively restaurants.

When visitors think of Oxford, they almost always imagine its university , revered as one of the world’s great academic institutions, inhabiting honey-coloured stone buildings set around ivy-clad quadrangles. The image is accurate enough, but although the university dominates central Oxford both physically and spiritually, the wider city has an entirely different character, its economy built chiefly on the factories of Cowley, south of the centre.

It was here that Britain’s first mass-produced cars were made in the 1920s and, although there have been more downs than ups in recent years, the plants are still vitally important to the area.

Oxford should be high on anyone’s itinerary, and can keep you occupied for several days. The colleges include some of England’s finest architecture, and the city also has some excellent museums and a good range of bars and restaurants.

The Radcliffe Camera© Pajor Pawel/Shutterstock

Discover the highlands of England from busy London over historical Oxford to the mysterious Stonehenge with our tailor-made 11-day tour of England's historical highlights .

Where to stay in Oxford:

• Old Parsonage Hotel

The Old Parsonage Hotel is a boutique hotel set in a building dating back to 1660. It has 2 terraces, a new residents garden library, a restaurant, and a bar, and is a 5-minute walk from Oxford city centre.

The village of Avebury stands in the midst of a stone circle that rivals Stonehenge – the individual stones are generally smaller, but the circle itself is much wider and more complex. A massive earthwork 20ft high and 1400ft across encloses the main circle, which is approached by four causeways across the inner ditch, two of them leading into wide avenues stretching over a mile beyond the circle.

It was probably built soon after 2500 BC and presumably had a similar ritual or religious function to Stonehenge .

The Rough Guides to England and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Stones in Avebury © Marc Cid/Shutterstock

Where to stay in Avebury:

• Elderbrook House

Set in Avebury, 16 km from Lydiard Park, Elderbrook House offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a shared lounge. 26 km from Lacock Abbey and 32 km from Cotswold Water Park, the property features a garden and a terrace.

Walk or cycle the length of this atmospheric Roman monument, which snakes its way for 84 miles over the rough, sheep-strewn countryside.

Hadrian’s Wall Path takes on average seven days to complete and there’s an optional Passport system (May–Oct) involving collecting a series of stamps to prove you’ve done it. If you want to walk only short routes, you can link up with the bus that runs along Hadrian’s Wall between mid-April and October.

For more hiking destinations read our guide to the top ten best hikes in the UK .

Hadrian’s Wall Path © Dave Head/Shutterstock

Where to stay near Hadrian’s Wall Path:

• Hadrian's Wall

Hadrian's Wall is located in Bardon Mill. This holiday home features a garden and free private parking.

Mud, mud, glorious mud... Glastonbury may be the biggest and best-known music and arts fest, but every summer weekend sees celebrations of anything from folk to trance on greenfield sites nationwide in England.

Having started as a small hippy affair in the 1970s, “Glasto” has become the biggest and best-organised festival in the country, without shedding too much of its alternative feel. Much more than just a music festival, large parts of the sprawling site are given over to themed “lifestyle” areas, from the meditation marquees of Green Fields to campfire-filled Strummerville and futuristic Arcadia.

Bands cover all musical spectrums, from up-and-coming indie groups to international superstars – recent headliners have included Foo Fighters, Radiohead and Ed Sheeran. Despite the steep price, tickets are invariably snapped up within hours of going on sale around October of the previous year.

Glastonbury music festival © benny hawes/Shutterstock

Where to stay in Glastonbury:

• George & Pilgrims Hotel

Built in the 1400s, The George & Pilgrim is the oldest purpose-built pub in the South West of England. Situated in Glastonbury, it is steeped in history and old tales.

The beaches strung along the northern coast of Devon and Cornwall offer some great breaks, with Newquay the place to see and be seen.

In a superb position on a knuckle of cliffs overlooking fine golden sands and Atlantic rollers, its glorious natural advantages have made Newquay the premier resort of north Cornwall . The “new quay” in question was built in the fifteenth century in what was already a long-established fishing port, up to then more colourfully known as Towan Blistra.

Newquay is England’s undisputed surfing centre, whose main break, Fistral, regularly hosts international contests. Boardmasters Festival - Newquay increasingly popular beach festival that takes place annually in early August, combining big-name rock acts with surf and skate competitions.

Surfers on the beach at Newquay © Mick Blakey/Shutterstock

Where to stay in Newquay:

• Sands Resort Hotel

Situated along Cornwall’s picturesque north coast, Sands Resort Hotel & Spa overlooks golden beaches and offers 2 swimming pools and free activities such as mini golf and tennis.

Admire England’s most elegant Georgian terrace, visit the Roman baths or do some serious shopping in Bath , one of the most beautiful cities in England.

Water, stone and wool are the elements that have shaped the history and appearance of the city of Bath: the thermal waters that underpinned the city’s growth. Bath’s hot springs alone set the city apart from anywhere else in the UK.

Head to Thermae Bath Spa which allows you to take the local waters in much the same way that visitors to Bath have done since Roman times, but with state-of-the-art spa facilities. The complex is heated by the city’s thermal waters and offers both pool and shower sessions and a variety of treatments from massages to dry flotation.

Roman baths in Bath © RnDmS/Shutterstock

Where to stay in Bath:

Set in Bath and with Bath Abbey reachable within 700 metres, Dukes Bath offers concierge services, non-smoking rooms, a bar, free WiFi throughout the property and a garden. The property is around 1.4 km from Royal Crescent, 2.9 km from the University of Bath and 3.7 km from Oldfield Park Train Station. The property is 21 km from Bristol Temple Meads Station and 22 km from Cabot Circus.

There’s nothing better than fish and chips, nor any better way to eat them than wrapped in paper and eaten on the beach.

For some visitors, the quintessential English meal is fish and chips, a dish that can vary from the succulently fresh to the indigestibly greasy. Local knowledge is the key, as most towns, cities and resorts have at least one first-rate fish-and-chip shop (“chippie”) or restaurant.

Fish and chips - quintessential English meal © Andreea Tudor/Shutterstock

With its strong ecological thrust, the Eden Project as the West Country’s most spectacular attraction presents a refreshing alternative to the hard sell of most of the region’s crowd-pullers.

Occupying a 160-foot-deep crater whose awesome scale only reveals itself once you have passed the entrance at its lip, the Eden Project showcases the diversity of the planet’s plant life in an imaginative way. Centre-stage are the geodesic “biomes” – vast conservatories made up of eco-friendly Teflon-coated, hexagonal panels.

Equally impressive are the neatly manicured grounds, where plantations of bamboo, tea, hops, hemp and tobacco are interspersed with brilliant displays of colourful flowers. In the summer, the grassy arena sees performances of a range of music – from Van Morrison to Foals – and in winter they set up a skating rink.

The Eden Project © Shutterstock

Where to stay in Cornwall:

Within 1.2 km of Readymoney Cove Beach and 2 km of Coombe Haven Beach, Lower Deck offers free WiFi and a garden. The property is 1.7 km from St Catherines Castle and 14 km from Restormel Castle.

Famed for its ponies, the New Forest , an ancient hunting ground is a magnet for cyclists and walkers.

Covering about 220 square miles, the New Forest is one of southern England’s favourite rural playgrounds, attracting some 13.5 million day visits annually. The trees here are now much more varied than they were in pre-Norman times, with birch, holly, yew, Scots pine and other conifers interspersed with the ancient oaks and beeches.

One of the most venerable trees is the much-visited Knightwood Oak which measures about 22ft in circumference at shoulder height. The most conspicuous species of fauna is the New Forest pony – you’ll see them grazing nonchalantly by the roadsides and ambling through some villages.

There are ten campsites throughout the forest run by Camping in the Forest . Most are open from Easter to late Sept, though some are open year-round. Some are very simple, with few or no facilities, others have electricity and hot shower blocks, but they all have open access to the forest. Many even have streams and fords running through them, with ponies and donkeys wandering freely.

New Forest ponies © Shutterstock

Plug into England’s sense of rural community at the growing network of markets where farmers and producers sell direct – not just fruit and veg but local cheeses, bread, pies, deli items, ales and more.

The wealth of fresh produce varies regionally, from hedgerow herbs to fish landed from local boats, and, of course, seasonally. In rural areas many farms offer “Pick Your Own” sessions when you can come away with armfuls of delicious berries, orchard fruits, beetroot and the like. Year-round you’ll find superlative seafood – from crabs to cockles, oysters to lobster – fine cheeses and delicious free-range meat.

Check out the growing profusion of farmers’ markets and farm shops, usually signposted by the side of the road in rural areas, to enjoy the best local goodies and artisan products.

Broadway Market, London © Shutterstock

Towering above the town on a steep chalk bluff, Windsor Castle is an undeniably imposing sight. Its chilly grey walls, punctuated by mighty medieval bastions, continue as far as the eye can see. Inside, most visitors just gape in awe at the monotonous, gilded grandeur of the State Apartments, while the real highlights – the paintings from the Royal Collection that line the walls – are rarely given a second glance.

More impressive is St George’s Chapel, a glorious Perpendicular structure ranking with Henry VII’s chapel in Westminster Abbey, and the second most important resting place for royal corpses after the Abbey. On a fine day, put aside some time for exploring Windsor Great Park, which stretches for several miles south of the castle.

Where to stay in Windsor:

• Goswell House

200 m from Windsor Castle, Goswell House is located in Windsor and provides free WiFi and express check-in and check-out. The property is set 4.1 km from Legoland Windsor, 12 km from LaplandUK and 12 km from Dorney Lake. The hotel features family rooms.

Windsor Castle © Shutterstock

A bustling seaside resort with great beaches and the southwest’s best art collection located in Cornwall .

The road runs four hilly miles onto the steeply built town of St Ives. By the time the pilchard reserves dried up around the early 1900s, the town was beginning to attract a vibrant artists’ colony. Precursors of the wave were later headed by Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth, Naum Gabo and the potter Bernard Leach, who in the 1960s were followed by a third wave including Peter Lanyon and Patrick Heron.

Not far from the Tate, the Barbara Hepworth Museum provides further insight into the local arts scene. One of the foremost nonfigurative sculptors of her time, Hepworth lived in the building from 1949 until her death in a studio fire in 1975.

Porthmeor Beach dominates the northern side of St Ives, it's excellent water quality and surfer-friendly rollers drawing a regular crowd, while the broader Porthminster Beach is usually less busy. A third town beach, the small and sheltered Porthgwidden, lies in the lee of the prong of land separating Porthmeor and Porthminster.

Porthmeor Beach, St Ives © ian woolcock/Shutterstock

Where to stay in St Ives:

• Cornerways Guest House

Set in St Ives, within 100 m of Bamaluz Beach and 200 m of Porthmeor Beach, Cornerways Guest House offers accommodation with free WiFi throughout the property. The property is around 200 m from Porthgwidden Beach, 16 km from St Michael's Mount and 29 km from Minack Theatre. The guest house features family rooms.

A flat-bottomed boat that’s easy to fall out of, with no paddles but a pole… Unnecessarily complicated it may be, but punting on the River Cam is the best way to see some of Cambridge ’s beautiful university buildings.

Punting is the quintessential Cambridge activity, though it is, in fact, a good deal harder than it looks. First-timers find themselves zigzagging across the water and in summer “punt jams” are very common on the stretch of the River Cam beside The Backs. Punt rental is available at several points, including the boatyard at Mill Lane (beside the Silver Street bridge), at Magdalene Bridge, and at the Garret Hostel Lane bridge at the back of Trinity College

On the whole, Cambridge is a much quieter and more secluded place than Oxford. For the visitor what really sets it apart from its scholarly rival is “The Backs” – the green sward of land that straddles the languid River Cam, providing exquisite views over the backs of the old colleges. At the front, the handsome facades of the colleges dominate the layout of the town centre, lining up along the main streets.

Find more interesting ideas for visiting Cambridge with our guide to the best things to do in Cambridge .

Cambridge University © Shutterstock

Where to stay in Cambridge:

• Gonville Hotel

Overlooking the famous Parker's Piece, this 4-star Gonville Hotel is a 5-minute walk from the historic centre of Cambridge. Refurbished to a high standard, the hotel offers free high-speed WiFi and on site parking at an additional fee. Free bike hire is available at this property.

Alfred Waterhouse’s purpose-built mock-Romanesque colossus ensures the status of the Natural History Museum as London’s most handsome museum, both an important resource for serious zoologists and a major tourist attraction.

The central Hintze Hall is dominated by a full-size, 25m blue-whale skeleton, dramatically suspended from the ceiling. The rest of the museum is divided into four colour-coded zones. The Blue Zone includes the ever-popular Dinosaur gallery, with its fossils and grisly life-sized animatronic dinosaurs.

If you are travelling with kids note that visiting Natural History Museum is definitely the thing to do in England. Popular sections over in the Green Zone include the Creepy-Crawlies, and the excellent Investigate Centre, where children aged 7 to 14 get to play at being scientists.

Read our guide about the best places to stay in London to find your perfect accommodation option

Statue of Charles Robert Darwin in Natural History Museum, London © Shutterstock

Soaring above the medieval streets of York , Britain’s biggest Gothic church has a thousand-year history and treasures to match.

York Minster ranks as one of the country’s most important sights. The seat of the Archbishop of York is Britain’s largest Gothic building and home to countless treasures. Not least of which is an estimated half of all the medieval stained glass in England. The first significant foundations were laid around 1080 by the first Norman archbishop, Thomas of Bayeux, and it was from the germ of this Norman church that the present structure emerged.

York Minster © Jez Campbell/Shutterstock

While in Yorkshire - visit the famous curry trail in Bradford .

Where to stay in York:

• The Churchill Hotel

This Georgian mansion is in York city centre. It mixes original features with modern style and facilities, including car parking and free Wi-Fi. The house was originally built around 1827, and it mixes original character and high ceilings with modern luxury. It has many historical artefacts associated with Winston Churchill, and each room has a flat-screen TV and a modern bathroom.

Blenheim Palace near Oxford is one of England’s most majestic stately homes, but dozens more up and down the country offer cultured days out.

The interior of the Palace is stuffed with paintings and tapestries, plus all manner of objets d’art, including furniture from Versailles and carvings by Grinling Gibbons. The Churchill Exhibition on the ground floor provides a fascinating introduction to Winston.

Blenheim Palace offers free guided tours inside the palace which depart about every quarter-hour, though you’re free to opt-out and stroll at your own pace. On Sunday or when the palace is very busy, tours are replaced by guides stationed in every room, who give details as you move through.

Where to stay in Oxford

Blenheim Palace © ChristianZscheile/Shutterstock

Mother Church of the Church of England, Canterbury Cathedral is famous for its shrine to the murdered Archbishop, Thomas à Becket, and the tales that Chaucer weaved around a fictitious pilgrimage to the martyr’s tomb.

The spot where Thomas Becket was murdered, known as the Martyrdom, is just off the nave in the northwest transept, marked by a modern-day flagstone etched with the name “Thomas”. Next to it, the Altar of the Sword’s Point – where, in medieval times, the shattered tip of the sword that hacked Becket’s scalp was displayed as a relic – is marked by a modern sculpture of the assassins’ weapons.

Shrine in the Canterbury Cathedral © Ritu Manoj Jethani/Shutterstock

Where to stay in Canterbury:

• Cathedral Gate

Dating back to 1438, the historic Cathedral Gate is in the heart of Canterbury. Once slept in by pilgrims, the hotel predates the adjoining gateway to Canterbury Cathedral and features wooden beams and sloping floors.

George Orwell didn’t like the place, but everyone else does: with its wide sandy beach and brightly painted beach huts, Southwold is the most beguiling of seaside towns.

Perched on robust cliffs just to the north of the River Blyth, Southwold is one of the region’s most charming towns, its genteel delights attracting the well-heeled and well-spoken. It was not always so: by the sixteenth century Southwold had become Suffolk’s busiest fishing port, but thereafter it lost most of its fishery to neighbouring Lowestoft.

Today, although a small fleet still brings in herrings, sprats and cod, the town is primarily a seaside resort – and one with none of the crassness of many of its competitors. All of this together makes visiting Southwold one of the best things to do in England.

Getting out for a relaxed day at one of the many seaside towns is a top thing to do in England © Shutterstock

If you love a good day out at the sea, check out our list of the best seaside towns in Britain .

Where to stay in Southwold:

• Sutherland House

With historical features dating back to 1455, Sutherland House is believed to be one of the oldest buildings in Southwold. Decorated with a delicate blend of Victorian and Georgian furnishings, it has free Wi-Fi and a restaurant.

From chic wine bars to first-rate theatres, the nightlife in Newcastle is growing in sophistication – though there are still plenty of places for a traditionally raucous night out on the Toon.

There are a number of attractions near Newcastle, all accessible by Metro. The train runs east towards Wallsend, where Segedunum fort marks the beginning of Hadrian’s Wall, while out at Jarrow, Bede’s Museum pays homage to Christianity’s most important historian.

Further out again is the splendid Washington Wildfowl Centre near Sunderland, while the Angel and the Goddess of the North are two striking pieces of public art south and north of Newcastle respectively.

The view of the night Newcastle from water © Michael Conrad/Shutterstock

Where to stay in Newcastle:

Featuring free WiFi throughout the property, Motel One Newcastle boasts modern features and is centrally located just a 2-minute walk to the historic city centre. Newcastle’s Central Station is just a 6-minute walk from the hotel.

George IV’s pleasure dome The Royal Pavilion in Brighton , designed by Nash, is a supreme example of Oriental-Gothic architecture.

In any survey to find England’s most loved building, there’s always a bucketful of votes for Brighton’s exotic extravaganza, the Royal Pavilion. The building was the south-coast pied-à-terre of the fun-loving Prince Regent (the future George IV), who first visited the seaside resort in 1783.

The building you see today is the work of John Nash, the architect of London’s Regent Street. In 1815 he redesigned the Prince’s original modest dwelling into an extraordinary confection of slender minarets, twirling domes, pagodas, balconies and miscellaneous motifs imported from India and China. The result defined a genre of its own – Oriental Gothic.

Royal Pavilion, Brighton © Alexey Fedorenko/Shutterstock

• Drakes Hotel

If you are into art - visiting Tate Modern in London should be on your list of things to do in England.

Housed in a spectacular former power station in London, Tate Modern is the largest modern art gallery in the world and is simply awesome. Designed as an oil-fired power station by Giles Gilbert Scott, this austere, brick-built “cathedral of power” was converted into a splendid modern art gallery in 2000.

Such was its phenomenal success that in 2016 Tate opened a vast new extension, the Blavatnik Building, a distorted prism of latticed bricks that rises to 215ft, above the power station’s three original circular tanks. This extension is topped by a superb, open-air, tenth-floor viewing level. At the centre of this huge art complex is the original, stupendously large Turbine Hall, used for large installations.

The original building, the riverside Boiler House, and the extension are connected to the Turbine.

Planning a trip to London? Don't miss our experts' pick of the best luxury hotels in the city .

Tate modern London © cristapper/Shutterstock

Where to stay in London

27. Visit Shakespeare's birthplace - Stratford-upon-Avon

Despite its worldwide fame, Stratford-upon-Avon, some thirty miles south of Birmingham, is at heart an unassuming market town with an unexceptional pedigree. A charter for Stratford’s weekly market was granted in the twelfth century and the town later became an important stopping-off point for stagecoaches between London, Oxford and the north.

Like all such places, Stratford had its clearly defined class system and within this typical milieu John and Mary Shakespeare occupied the middle rank. They would have been forgotten long ago had their first son, William, not turned out to be the greatest writer ever to use the English language.

A consequence of their good fortune is that, in summer at least, this pleasant little town can seem overwhelmed by the number of visitors, but don’t be deterred. The Royal Shakespeare Company offers superb theatre and if you are willing to forgo the busiest attraction – Shakespeare’s Birthplace – you can largely avoid the crush.

Stratford’s key attractions are dotted around the centre, and three of them – as well as two more on the edge of town – are owned and operated by the excellent Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.

Where to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon:

• Hotel Indigo

The central 4-star Hotel Indigo - Stratford Upon Avon is a 5-minute walk from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-Upon-Avon. The hotel offers free WiFi throughout all areas of the hotel.

William Shakespeare's Birthplace at Henley Street, in Stratford upon Avon © Alicia G. Monedero/Shutterstock

London’s top hotels are the most wickedly indulgent places for a calorific afternoon tea of sandwiches, scones and cakes – though a Devonshire cream tea can give the capital a run for its money.

England’s most popular venues for a classic afternoon tea – sandwiches, scones and cream, cakes and tarts, and, of course, pots of leaf tea – are the top hotels and swanky department stores, though many restaurants offer their own version. Wherever you go, you should book well in advance.

Most hotels will expect at least “smart casual attire”; only The Ritz insists on a jacket and tie. Prices quoted here are for the standard teas; champagne teas, or more substantial high teas, are more expensive.

Getting a proper afternoon tea is a great thing to do in England © Shutterstock

This distinctive limestone arch of the Durdle Door is the highlight of Dorset ’s Jurassic Coast and sits on one of the loveliest stretches of the South West Coast Path, close to some fine beaches.

A mile west of Lulworth Cove, the iconic limestone arch of Durdle Door can be reached via the steep uphill path that starts from Lulworth Cove’s car park. The arch itself sits at the end of a long shingle beach (which can be accessed via steep steps), a lovely place for catching the sun and swimming in fresh, clear water.

There are further steps to a bay just east of Durdle Door, St Oswald’s Bay, with another shingle beach and offshore rocks that you can swim out to.

Durdle Door at the beach on the Jurassic Coast of Dorset, UK © Patryk Kosmider/Shutterstock

Our tailor-made 12-day tour to Jurassic Coast will help you to explore its magnificent scenery to the full

Where to stay near Durdle Door:

• Lulworth Cove Inn

On the doorstep of Lulworth Cove, with coastal views and scenic Jurassic footpaths, the Lulworth Cove Inn features a pub/restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and rooms with stunning sea views.

Towering above the River Avon at the foot of the town centre, Warwick Castle is often proclaimed the “greatest medieval castle in Britain”. This claim is valid enough if bulk equals greatness, but actually, much of the existing structure is the result of extensive nineteenth-century tinkering.

It’s likely that the Saxons raised the first fortress on this site, though things really took off with the Normans, who built a large motte and bailey here towards the end of the eleventh century. Almost three hundred years later, the eleventh Earl of Warwick turned the stronghold into a formidable stone castle, complete with elaborate gatehouses, multiple turrets and a keep.

Where to stay near Warwick Castle:

• The Rose and Crown

Ideally located in the heart of Warwick city centre, The Rose and Crown is a former coaching inn, providing comfortable accommodation and excellent food in a vibrant atmosphere.

Warwick Castle © northallertonman/Shutterstock

Ready for a trip to England ? Check out the snapshot of The Rough Guide to England or The Rough Guide to Great Britain . If you travel further in England , read more about the best time to go , the best places to visit and the best things to do in England. For inspiration use the England itineraries from The Rough Guide to England and our local travel experts . A bit more hands-on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to England without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

• History Culture Heritage
• United Kingdom
• Inspiration
• See & Do

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for England

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to England

• Eating and drinking in England
• Sports and Outdoor activities in England
• Travel Tips England for planning and on the go
• Getting around England: Transportation Tips
• How to get to England
• Shopping tips for England
• Best time to visit England

Find even more inspiration for 57 here

Ready to travel and discover england, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Travel advice
• Where to stay

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

30 Best & Prettiest Places to Visit in The UK

14 June 2023 · In: England , Scotland , UK , Wales

Are you looking for the best places and coolest cities to visit in the UK ? You have come to the right place! This article walks you through 30 locations to add to your bucket list for an unforgettable adventure, whether you are going for a day trip, a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation.

The UK is a beautiful country which has much to offer! From quaint villages and stunning National Parks to iconic historical sites and ancient woodlands, you will find plenty of things to do for a holiday full of diversity and surprises.

I arrived in the UK in 2016 and am constantly amazed at how much I still have to discover. It is always a pleasure to explore the country, from Cornwall to the Scottish Highlands passing through the Lake District – I love learning about British culture and heritage.

So, are you ready to discover the top 30 places in the UK that you must visit ? Let’s get started! And, of course, let me know in the comments below if you have any suggestions 🙂

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information,  read our full affiliate disclosure .

30- Trossachs National Park, Scotland

Overview: top places to visit in the uk.

1- The Lake District, England 2- Scottish Highlands 3- York, England 4- The Cotswolds, England 5- Jurassic Coast, England 6- Snowdonia, Wales 7- Stonehenge, England 8- Cambridge, England 9- Peak District, England 10- Cornwall, England

11- Edinburgh, Scotland 12- South Downs, England 13- Bath, England 14- Yorkshire Dales, England 15- Oxford, England 16- Giant’s Causeway, Ireland 17- London, England 18- Liverpool, England 19- Glasgow, Scotland 20- Windsor Castle, England

21- Manchester, England 22- Brighton, England 23- Isle of Wight, England 24- Bristol, England 25- Pembrokeshire, Wales 26- Cheddar Gorge, England 27- Belfast, Ireland 28- St Michael’s Mount, England 29- Chester, England 30- Trossachs, Scotland

READ MORE: London to Edinburgh Drive: 20+ Best Stops

Cool places to visit in the UK – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

30 must-visit places in the UK

1- the lake district, england.

One of the best places to visit in the UK is, without a doubt, the incredible Lake District, the  largest National Park in England and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It is home to Scafell Pike, its highest mountain, and Wastwater, its deepest lake.

Located in northwest England, this  mountainous area  is the ideal relaxing place to reconnect with nature and take time for yourself. Hike through stunning landscapes, admire the views, explore picturesque villages and learn about its rich cultural heritage.

Whether you are an adventure addict or in search of tranquillity, there is something for everyone, whatever the season! Especially if you love spending time in nature and camping ( 10 Best Campsites in the Lake District, UK ).

The National Park is also perfect for families with children as it provides plenty of opportunities for  outdoor activities  such as cycling, kayaking, paddle boarding and more.

My experience – the Lake District is my favourite place to visit in the UK! I discovered it a few years ago when my partner Matt took me camping and fell in love with it. I live only 1h30 away, so I have the chance to explore it often and on weekends, and it always feels like a bowl of fresh air, a place where I can disconnect and enjoy the outdoors. My favourite town is Ambleside, and one of my favourite campsites is The Great Landgale 🙂 

READ MORE: 10 Best Easy Walks & Hikes in The Lake District

Things to do & see in the Lake District

• See Lake Windermere
• Take the Ullswater streamer
• Hike Scafell Pike
• Walk around Lake Buttermere
• Visit Ambleside
• Wander Whinlatter Forest Park
• Hike to Castlerigg Stone Circle
• Wild swim at Blea Tarn
• Kayak on Derwentwater
• Picnic at Tarn Hows

Unforgettable experiences & tours

2- scottish highlands, scotland.

The Scottish Highlands   are an  impressive mountainous area  encircling the northwest of Scotland. The region is the largest in the country and home to breathtaking scenery, including the   legendary Loch Ness  and its mythical monster Nessie. 

With picturesque landscapes, fascinating castles and rich culture, it is no wonder why it is one of the best places to visit in the UK. 

Discover the enigmatic Loch Ness, explore the Cairngorms National Park, admire iconic castles on the Isle of Skye, road trip through the  North Coast 500  or climb up the highest peak in Britain, Ben Nevis.

The Scottish Highlands is also an incredible place to  experience wildlife , from seeing dolphins swimming in the Moray Firth to witnessing red deer roaming the Glencoe Valley.

My experience – I love the Scottish Highlands! I discovered Scotland in 2016 and fell in love with the country. The landscapes are all incredible, and the locals are lovely. I particularly enjoyed exploring the area around Loch Ness – there are so many cool things to do and see. It is a great place to discover if you are a nature lover or photo enthusiast. One of my dreams is also to do the NC 500 – it is on my bucket list! 

READ MORE: Loch Ness Travel Guide: 10 Best Things to Do

Things to do & see in the Scottish Highlands

• Discover Loch Ness
• Climb up Ben Nevis
• Visit Urquhart Castle
• Explore Glen Coe Valley
• Stop by Fort William
• Take a photo of Glenfinnan Viaduct
• Admire Loch Shiel
• Tour a Scottish distillery
• Explore the Isle of Skye
• Marvel Eilean Donan Castle

3- York, England

York is a  vibrant city  in northeast England perfectly set within the Yorkshire Dales, founded by the ancient Romans and offering a perfect experience for everyone. 

It is a  walkable city   packed with plenty of things to do , from its impressive 13th-century Gothic cathedral, York Minster, to its Ancient Walls surrounding local shops, attractions, restaurants and bars, hosting lively events every day and festivals every month.

Watch a horse race at its renowned racecourse, visit its inspiring museums, taste local dishes and enjoy its thriving cultural scene – it is a fun place to explore in the UK on a  short city break and a week-long vacation . 

Things to do & see in York

• Wander the Shambles
• Marvel at York Minster
• Climb Clifford’s Tower
• Visit the many museums
• Walk the city walls
• Cruise down the river
• Stop by Jorvik Viking Centre
• Visit the National Railway Museum

4- The Cotswolds, England

The Cotswolds is a  beautiful region in Gloucestershire , filled with picturesque villages , miles of countryside walks and beautiful landscapes which are easy to explore by car or bike.

Love the outdoors? Check out this article: 10 Best Campsites in The Cotswolds, England .

The area is perfect for  immersing yourself in British country life  and escaping the busy cities. Here are a few lovely places you should add to your itinerary whilst visiting the Cotswolds:

• Castle Combe : a beautiful village rich in history with its Market Cross and St Andrew’s Church.
• Bilbury : a charming village with quaint streets and brick cottages, famous for its Arlington Row street.
• Burford : a small medieval village with its famous High Street rising from the church and river.
• Bourton-on-the-Water : an old town on River Windrush known for its low bridges and traditional stone houses.
• The Slaughters : two twin picturesque villages boasting traditional limestone cottages.
• Stow-on-the-Wold : a delightful market town perched at the top of a hill at nearly 800 feet. 

5- Jurassic Coast, England

The Jurassic Coast is a  95-mile-long strip of coastline  in southern England, from Exmouth in Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset, and a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  famous for its unique rocks, fossils and landforms.

It is one of the most  popular tourist destinations in Britain  and a fantastic place to explore for all ages. From pretty seaside towns and golden beaches to impressive cliffs and breathtaking views, the Jurassic Coast is undoubtedly a must-visit in the UK.

And if you like walking, why not venture on a part of  South West Coast Path ? It will take you through beautiful treasures, sceneries and villages.

My experience – Old Harry Rocks are some of the most impressive cliffs I have ever seen! It is so breathtaking that it gave me vertigo, which never happens. The white colour of the rock contrasting with the blue of the water and the green of the grass make a perfect scenery worth the visit.

Things to do & see on the Jurassic Coast

• Hike to Old Harry Rocks
• Visit Corfe Village & its castle
• Admire Lulworth Cove
• Take a photo of the Durdle Door 
• Enjoy the views from the Golden Cap 
• Explore Weymouth
• Stop by Abbotsbury
• Discover the West Bay
• Wander along Charmouth Beach
• Ramble through Lyme Regis

6- Snowdonia, Wales

Another incredible National Park in the UK is Snowdonia, a  mountainous region in North Wales  full of beauty and history. Whether you are into relaxation or adventure, it has much to offer! 

The area welcomes you amidst stunning landscapes, from rivers to hills and woodlands – a perfect place to reconnect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. It is also home to many  hiking trails, over 100 lakes and rugged peaks  to climb. 

READ MORE: 10 Best Easy Walks & Hikes in Snowdonia

Plus, it is impossible not to mention this National Park without its iconic  Mount Snowdon , the highest mountain in England and Wales, offering breathtaking views across the sea to Ireland. 

My experience – I was never thinking of Wales as a travel destination, yet, I was surprised on my first visit. It had such a beautiful atmosphere with its forests and green hills – I loved it! Since then, I have visited the country and National Park many times and have consistently had a great experience. I particularly love hopping on the Snowdon Mountain Railway to reach the top of Snowdon.

READ MORE: 10 Best Campsites in Snowdonia National Park

Things to do & see in Snowdonia

• Hike up Mount Snowdon
• Drive the Llanberis Pass
• Stroll through Dolgellau
• Stop by Portmeirion
• Discover the Llyn Ogwen area
• Climb up Tryfan
• Wild swim in its lakes
• Hope on the Ffestiniog Railway
• Explore Ceunant Cynfal

7- Stonehenge, England

Stonehenge is a  prehistoric monument  on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, consisting of an outer ring of vertical standing stones topped by joined horizontal stones.

Book your ticket online  and experience the unique atmosphere of the  Stone Circle  as you follow in the footsteps of the prehistoric people who lived here 4,000 years ago. You can also stop by the  exhibition  to learn more and explore the  Neolithic village  – a perfect day of adventure for all the family and history buffs.

So make sure to add this historical place to your UK bucket list and uncover one of the  most iconic sites of Britain  and its fascinating past.

8- Cambridge, England

A name you must have heard for its famous academic scene: the iconic Cambridge.  Compact and beautiful , the city is globally known for its top university but is also so much more.

Wander through its  picturesque streets , marvel at its architectural richness and delve into its fascinating history in  world-class museums . 

And for a fun and unusual perspective on the city, discover it from the water by  punting on the River Cam . You will come across significant landmarks like the King’s College Chapel and the Mathematical Bridge – all whilst enjoying the outdoors. 

Things to do & see in Cambridge

• Tour King’s College Chapel
• Visit the University buildings
• Go punting on River Cam
• Admire the Mathematical Bridge
• Marvel at St John’s College
• Enjoy the view from Great St Mary’s Church
• See the Bridge of Sighs
• Stroll around Corpus Christi College

9- Peak District, England

You will find the Peak District National Park in central England, a beautiful region famous for its  dramatic scenery and steep limestone valleys .

From  peaceful countryside walks  and scenic bike trails to exciting rock climbing adventures and quaint villages, there are endless things to do and see in this National Park. 

However long you stay, it is the perfect place for a family camping trip, a solo hiking venture or a romantic couple getaway under the stars. 

READ MORE: Best Hikes in the UK: 16 Scenic Walking Trails

Things to do & see in the Peak District

• Discover Edensor
• Wander around Bakewell
• Ramble along Mam Tor
• Climb up to Bamford Edge
• Explore Winnats Pass
• Stroll through Castleton
• Hike to Cave Dale
• Wild swim at Three Shires Head

10- Cornwall, England

Cornwall is a county and the  extreme southwestern peninsula of England,  surrounding wild moorland and numerous sandy beaches, culminating at Land’s End headland. It has the longest stretch of continuous coastline in Britain and is  one of the sunniest parts  of the country. 

With traditional fishing villages, golden beaches, clear blue waters, rugged cliffs and unique architecture, it is also  one of the most scenic areas  of England and a fun place to explore. 

Plus, Cornwall hosts many  events and festivals , making it a must-visit destination in the summer. And, of course, do not miss out on tasting one of its Cornish pasties on your stay! 

My experience – I visited Cornwall in the summer for a week and loved it! It was so relaxing. We spent our days exploring small villages, hiking along the coast, going to the beach or kayaking. You will find many nice things to do and see in the area, and I wish we stayed longer! 

READ MORE: Where to Stay in Cornwall: 10 Best Areas

Things to do & see in Cornwall

• Admire St Michael’s Mount
• Explore Watergate Bay
• Visit St Piran’s Oratory
• Ramble through Bodmin Moor
• Relax at Gwithian Beach
• Marvel at the Minack Theatre
• Discover Tintagel Castle
• Walk around the Lizard Peninsula
• Visit the Cornish Seal Sanctuary
• Spend time in St Ives

11- Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is the  magical hilly capital of Scotland  and one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. By wandering through its streets, you will come across a medieval Old Town and an elegant Georgian New Town with gardens and neoclassical buildings.

Perched on a rock above the city is the iconic  Edinburgh Castle , home to the crown jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny; a must-see on your city break! 

You can not also miss  Arthur’s Seat , the towering summit of Holyrood Park offering a network of trails and stunning views, and Calton Hill, a quiet place to watch the sunset, topped with monuments and memorials.

My experience – Edinburgh is my favourite city in the UK and where I would live if I did not live in Manchester. I have had the chance to visit the Scottish capital twice in different seasons, and each time was incredible. I fell in love with its atmosphere and architecture. A place I highly recommend you visit , especially in winter and around Christmas.

READ MORE: 3 Magical Days in Edinburgh: City Itinerary

Things to do & see in Edinburgh

• Visit Edinburgh Castle
• Walk the Royal Mile
• Hike up Arthur’s Seat
• Stop by The Elephant House
• Watch the sunset from Calton Hill
• Tour Holyrood Palace & Holyrood Abbey
• Stroll through Victoria Street
• Enjoy the view from the Scott Monument
• Explore the National Museum of Scotland
• Discover Dean Village

12- South Downs, England

Just a short journey from London, the South Downs is a National Park featuring  a range of chalk hills  in the southeastern coastal counties of England.

With scenic rolling green hills, spectacular hiking and cycling trails, quaint villages, ancient woodland, wildlife-rich moorland and towering cliffs, South Downs is an excellent place to  escape the buzz of the city and disconnect  in this peaceful part of Hampshire.

And if you love hiking, follow the  South Downs Way  or a part of it to enjoy some breathtaking views along the park. 

Things to do & see in the South Downs

• Visit Amberley
• Ramble through Petworth
• Hike the Seven Sisters 
• Explore Winchester
• Stop by Midhurst
• Visit Arundel Castle
• Walk to the Devil’s Dyke
• Enjoy the view from Butser Hill 
• Stroll through Brighton

13- Bath, England

As  one of the most beautiful cities  in England, I could not miss Bath and not add it to this bucket list as one of the best places to visit in the UK.

The city, the only one in the UK designated a  UNESCO World Heritage Site , is known for its Roman baths and incredible atmosphere. Setting foot in Bath is like stepping back in history, making it a place worth the visit. Plus, it is the  perfect holiday destination  for couples on a romantic getaway.

Take the time to  explore this city full of beauty and history . Visit the Roman Baths dating back to AD 43, stroll past architectural masterpieces like the Royal Crescent or enjoy a visit to the Jane Austen Centre. You will not get bored!

Things to do & see in Bath

• Discover the Roman Baths
• Admire Pulteney Bridge
• Relax at the Thermae Spa
• Explore Bath Abbey
• See the Royal Crescent
• Walk down Green Street
• Enjoy a boat cruise on the River Avon
• Stroll through its markets
• Stop by the Jane Austen Centre

14- Yorkshire Dales, England

The Yorkshire Dales is a  scenic National Park  in northern England, encompassing thousands of miles of moorland, valleys, hills and villages. 

It is home to unique landscapes,  impressive castles and abbeys , and a peaceful atmosphere – perfect for a weekend escape or a week-long trip with the family. 

From  spectacular waterfalls to ancient woodlands  and quaint villages, there are plenty of things to do and see in the area, so make sure to add it to your UK bucket list. 

Things to do & see in Yorkshire Dales

• Discover the geological Malham Cove
• Explore the Swaledale area
• Visit the Bolton Abbey Estate
• Explore the underground caves
• Hike the Yorkshire Three Peaks
• Take a photo of the Ribblehead Viaduct
• Drive the Buttertubs Pass
• Hire a bike & explore
• Admire the ruins of Fountains Abbey
• Climb up Brimham Rocks 

15- Oxford, England

Whilst you might have heard about this city through its  prestigious university  established in the 12th century (one of the best in the world), Oxford is more than that and an interesting place well worth visiting.

From inspiring museums to buzzing bars and hidden waterways, this city, located in central southern England, is  full of culture and history . 

Take the time to wander its streets, tour its renowned college and stroll along its river. And even if it is for a short stay, Oxford is a perfect place for a weekend getaway with friends or family.

Finally,  if you are a culture/art lover , Oxford was where parts of Harry Potter were filmed, J.R.R. Tolkien shared lectures, and Lewis Carrol wrote  Alice in Wonderland.

Things to do & see in Oxford

• Visit the Ashmolean Museum
• Join a University of Oxford tour
• Tour the Pitt Rivers Museum
• Go on a river cruise
• Try yourself at river punting
• Unwind in the Oxford Botanic Gardens
• Picnic on Port Meadow
• See Oxford Castle
• Step inside the Bodleian Library 

16- Giant’s Causeway, Ireland 

You will find Giant’s Causeway at the foot of the basalt cliffs along the sea coast on the edge of the Antrim plateau in Northern Ireland. It consists of  over 40,000 giant black basalt columns  in perfect horizontal sections, rising out of the sea and forming a pavement   – the result of an ancient volcanic eruption.

The Giant’s Causeway is a  breathtaking area of international geological significance . Over the past 300 years, studies of these formations have contributed to the development of earth science and demonstrated that this remarkable landscape was formed by volcanic activity approximately 50 to 60 million years ago.

Today, the site is open to everyone and is a  popular tourist attraction in the UK  to explore for stunning views – and fun photos! 

Note that pedestrian access to the site is free, but you can also book a guided tour to learn more about the area. A charge will also apply for using the facilities such as parking and the entrance to the visitor centre exhibition. 

17- London, England

Impossible not to have heard of the bustling capital of England and the United Kingdom! London is a 21st-century city with a history dating back to Roman times. It is today a  perfect representation of tradition and modernity .

At its centre, you will find the imposing Houses of Parliament, the iconic  Big Ben  clock tower and  Westminster Abbey , the site of British monarch coronations. 

On the other side of the Thames River is the  London Eye  observation wheel providing scenic views of the South Bank cultural complex and the entire city – an experience like no other! 

My experience – London is a city I love exploring as there is always so much to do and see. I would recommend staying for a few days or a long weekend to have time to see the main attractions. And do not forget to wear comfortable shoes as you might do a lot of walking! Alternatively, the city has a great subway network, or hop on the bus and enjoy the scenery. 

READ MORE: 3 Perfect Days in London: Complete Itinerary

Things to do & see in London

• Take in the view from the London Eye
• Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace 
• Admire Westminster Abbey
• Cross the Tower Bridge 
• Take a photo of Big Ben & Houses of Parliament
• Enjoy the buzz of Piccadilly Circus
• Marvel at St Paul’s Cathedral 
• Stroll through Covent Garden 
• Visit the Natural History Museum
• Go on top of the impressive Shard

18- Liverpool, England

Another city you must have heard of for its famous football team and music scene as the birthplace of the Beatles, Liverpool is a  maritime city in northwest England  – and an interesting place to visit in the UK!

Home to one of the most significant industrial heritages in Britain and considered the  capital of culture , Liverpool has something for everyone. 

Whether you are a history buff, a music enthusiast or an art lover, this creative city offers many attractions, whatever the season. 

Enjoy a stroll along its docks, tour  The Beatles Story , immerse yourself in its fascinating culture or stop by the  Cavern Club  for a night you will never forget – there are endless things you will love to do. 

My experience – Liverpool is a city I love visiting on a day trip. It is not far from Manchester and easily accessible from anywhere. Plus, if you love the Beatles like me, you will enjoy exploring the city and learning more about the band and iconic locations. 

Things to do & see in Liverpool

• Walk along the Royal Albert Dock
• Visit the British Music Experience
• Stop by the St George’s Hall
• Tour The Beatles Story 
• Enjoy live music at the Cavern Club
• Cruise across the River Mersey
• Stroll through the Georgian Quarter

19- Glasgow, Scotland

Glasgow is a port city on the River Clyde and the largest city in Scotland renowned for its  Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture , a rich legacy of its 18th and 20th-century prosperity from trade and shipbuilding. 

Today, the city is famous as a  national cultural hub , home to some of the  best artistic attractions in Scotland  and institutions, including the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet and National Theatre of Scotland, world-class museums and a thriving music scene.

Spend time exploring its fascinating free museums and galleries, enjoy the best place to shop in the UK outside of London and take advantage of over 130 weekly musical events for a memorable night out. In addition, Glasgow is the perfect base for  exploring the Scottish Highlands and the islands .

Things to do & see in Glasgow

• Tour Kelvingrove Museum
• Wander down Buchanan Street
• Relax at Glasgow Green
• Admire the Burrell collection
• Vist the Pollok House
• Explore George Square
• See the City Chambers
• Discover the Glasgow Cathedral

20- Windsor Castle, England

No UK bucket list would be complete without the famous Windsor Castle, the  oldest and largest occupied castle in the world  and the family home to British kings and queens for over 1,000 years set in the English county of Berkshire.

Today, it is  one of the official residences of His Majesty The King  and a unique site to explore and soak up the English culture, as it embodies almost a millennium of architectural history.

And with many areas to visit, Windsor Castle has something for everyone. Allow 2 to 3 hours to see it all, or dedicate a day and  enjoy an ultimate royal experience  – the perfect attraction for families with kids, open to the public all year round.

Things to do & see at Windsor Castle

• Tour the majestic State Apartments 
• Admire the most incredible collection of paintings 
• See the Grand Reception Room decorated with real gold
• Marvel at the grandeur of St George’s Chapel
• Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony

Top tips for visiting Windsor Castle

• Book your tickets  in advance to avoid the queues
• Always check the opening dates and provisional closure times
• Consider visiting the Castle in winter for a unique atmosphere
• Look out for special tours throughout the year 

21- Manchester, England

With a  thriving cultural scene and rich industrial heritage , Manchester is another city to add to your list of the best places to visit in the UK and an exciting place to discover for all ages.

Known as a textile powerhouse and home to the first inter-city passenger railway, the bustling city is packed with treasures and is an ideal way to  learn more about northwest England . 

Whether you are into culture, quirky pubs, history or entertainment, you will not run out of ideas for things to do in Manchester. From its renowned football clubs to its refined art exhibitions and live music theatres, it is one of the coolest cities in England – and  one of the best cities in the UK for nightlife ! 

My experience – Manchester is where I live and one of my favourite cities in the UK. I love its atmosphere, diverse restaurants and bars, and vibrant nightlife. I believe the city is more a place to live than visit, but there are still many things to discover. 

Things to do & see in Manchester

• Stroll through Ancoats & the Northern Quarters
• Visit the Manchester Museum
• Discover the John Rylands Library
• Stop by the Manchester Art Gallery
• Catch a show at one of its theatres
• Explore the Museum of Science and Industry
• Tour the Old Trafford 
• Admire the City Town Hall

22- Brighton, England

Welcome to Brighton, an  inclusive and eclectic seaside resort in East Sussex . The city is a perfect mix of modern culture and trendy architecture and a nice place to stay for a weekend or a few days, especially in the summer.

With a  thriving art and music scene , an abundance of independent shops, boutique hotels and outstanding restaurants, the city has much to offer! 

Plus, if you are into  nature and the outdoors , you have come to the right place. Brighton has miles of beaches and is at the heart of the UNESCO World Biosphere Region. In addition, it borders the beautiful South Downs National Park previously mentioned. 

Things to do & see in Brighton

• Discover Brighton Pier
• Visit the Royal Pavilion
• Stroll down The Lanes
• Experience Brighton Pride
• Tour Brighton Art Museum and Gallery
• Explore the Seven Sisters
• Relax at the beach
• Enjoy the view from the i360

23- Isle of Wight, England

The Isle of Wight is a  charming island off the south coast of England , known for its beaches and seafront promenades like Shanklin Beach and Ventnor Beach, which features vintage beach huts. 

Just over 2 hours from London by ferry, the island, recently crowned a UNESCO Biosphere, is easy to access and is an  ideal year-round holiday destination , offering a stunning collection of landscapes and a comprehensive list of things to do.

So hop on your bike and explore this wonderful island full of hidden gems! From dinosaur remains and fossils to impressive cliffs and a beautiful 19th-century lighthouse, you will have a fantastic experience.

Things to do & see on the Isle of Wight

• Discover the Osborne House
• See Carisbrooke Castle
• Admire The Needles
• Visit the Donkey Sanctuary
• Hike along the coastal path
• Explore Steephill Cove
• Hop on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway

24- Cheddar Gorge, England

Cheddar Gorge is a  spectacular limestone gorge in the Mendip Hills  in Somerset, featuring breathtaking cliffs and hidden caves. It is one of the most  spectacular natural landmarks  in Britain – and a must-visit.

The Gorge is also the site of the  Cheddar Show Caves , where the oldest complete human skeleton, Cheddar Man, was discovered in 1903, aged around 9,000 years.

Whether you love nature, wildlife, history or adventure, this is the place for you! Discover fascinating secrets about our prehistoric ancestors and try yourself at rock climbing. Cheddar Gorge is a  perfect all-season destination  for any traveller.

25- Bristol, England

Bristol is a  buzzing city straddling the River Avon  in southwest England with a thriving maritime history. Its former city-centre port is now a lively cultural hub, the Harbourside, where the  M Shed Museum  explores local social and industrial heritage. 

The 19th-century warehouses of the harbour also contain restaurants, shops and cultural institutions like  The Arnolfini , a contemporary art gallery.

Uncover historic landmarks, taste your vertigo on the  Clifton Suspension Bridge , seek out awe-inspiring street art and do not miss out on the  Bristol International Balloon Fiesta  in August.

Things to do & see in Bristol

• Cross the Clifton Suspension Bridge
• Wander through St Nicks Market 
• See inspiring street art
• Visit the SS Great Britain
• Tour the M Shed
• Stroll along Harbourside
• Head to the top of Cabot Tower
• Marvel at Bristol Cathedral 

26- Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales

Pembrokeshire Coast is a  National Park along the coast of West Wales . Founded in 1952, it offers today a variety of breathtaking landscapes, including hills, estuaries, valleys and woodlands.

It is one of the smallest National Parks but still has so much to offer! It provides  limitless possibilities to enjoy the outdoors , from intricate stripes of cliffs to stunning beaches and hidden coves.

National Geographic Traveler  magazine in the US even rated the Pembrokeshire Coast as one of the  top coastal destinations in the world . No wonder it is one of the best places to visit in the UK! 

Things to do & see in Pembrokeshire

• Test your surf at Freshwater West
• Walk the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
• Visit St Davids Cathedral
• Go birdwatching on Skomer Island
• Explore its many beaches
• Stop by the town of Tenby
• Go coasteering in the Blue Lagoon
• Explore Laugharne
• Admire Pembroke Castle 
• Marvel at Ancient Dolmens

27- Belfast, Ireland

Another great place to add to your UK bucket list is Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. It was the  birthplace of the RMS Titanic , which famously crashed into an iceberg and sank in 1912.

You will find the legacy of the Titan in the renovated Titanic Quarter dockyards, including the  Titanic Belfast , a museum covered in aluminium, reminiscent of the hull of a ship, and shipbuilder  Harland & Wolff’s Drawing Offices  and the  Titanic Slipways , which today host open-air concerts. 

But Belfast is also more than that! It is a  perfect city to explore for a short or long trip . Immerse yourself in art and culture, enjoy local food and have a nice night out – you will not regret it!

Things to do & see in Belfast

• Enjoy one of its many pubs
• Tour Belfast City Hall
• Wander around the Botanic Gardens
• Visit Titanic Belfast
• Discover the Ulster Museum
• Explore Belfast Castle
• Admire St. Anne’s Cathedral
• Head to Cave Hill Country Park
• See the impressive Stormont

28- St Michael’s Mount, England

St Michael’s Mount is a  tidal island with a majestic castle perched on top  in Mount’s Bay, off the coast of Cornwall. The island is a civil parish connected to the town of Marazion by a  hidden path passable only between low and mid-tide .

From an ancient castle fortress and subtropical gardens to perfect lawns and a harbour village, there are  plenty of things to discover on the island  – so plan your visit according to the tides to enjoy all it offers.

You can access St Michael’s Mount  on foot at low tide  by crossing the cobbled causeway. But if the tide is too high, you can  use boats  that run regularly from Marazion. 

My experience – I discovered this magical island when I stayed in Cornwall and loved it! It reminded me of Mont Saint-Michel in France. I saw the island at high tide, so I did not have the chance to visit it, but I experienced it at sunset, which was beautiful, especially if you love taking photos. 

Things to do & see on St Michael’s Mount 

• Visit the Castle
• Explore the Garden
• Step inside the Church
• Wander through the village
• Walk along the harbour
• Shop local souvenirs

29- Chester, England

Right on the border with Wales in northwest England, you will come across Chester, a  Roman fortress  founded in the 1st century AD, known for its  extensive walls constructed with local red sandstone .

Wandering through the  centre of the Ancient Town  is an experience like no other. From the impressive city walls to the oldest hippodrome and the  largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain , a visit to Chester will leave you with unforgettable memories – especially in winter when the atmosphere is incredible. 

And, if shopping is more your thing, check out the  700-year-old Rows , a medieval timber building with elevated galleries that you can not find anywhere else in the world.

Things to do & see in Chester

• Wander on Chester City Walls
• Marvel at Chester Cathedral
• Visit the Roman Amphitheatre
• Admire the Eastgate Clock
• Shop at the historic Rows galleries
• Walk through the Roman Gardens
• Stop by the Grosvenor Museum
• Stroll through The Groves

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is, as his name suggests, a  National Park in Scotland centred on Loch Lomond and the hills of the Trossachs . It is an iconic place to visit in the UK due to its outstanding scenery, varied wildlife and welcoming local communities. 

The National Park is packed with  fun things to do and natural gems  to explore. Enjoy a boat cruise on the Loch as you admire Ben Lomond, visit one of its 30 islands, hike one of the rocky peaks or plan a camping trip in the summer.

Whatever type of adventure  you want to experience, you will find it in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park!

READ MORE: The 15 UK National Parks: Complete Guide

Things to do & see in Trossachs National Park

• Go on a scenic hike
• Visit the village of Luss
• Try kayaking or paddleboarding
• Spot wallabies on Inchconnachan
• Discover the Falls of Dochart in Killin
• Explore Balloch Country Park
• Drive along the west side of Loch Lomond

Shop the printable travel planner

Create & plan your perfect vacation in the UK.

Sustainable travel in the UK

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Being a responsible traveller whilst exploring the UK is possible! Here are some  sustainable tips for reducing your carbon footprint :

• Use green methods of transport . Use public transport as much as possible to travel to and from your destination. Once there, prioritise walking or cycling. 
• Select an eco-friendly accommodation . It is not always easy to determine whether a hotel has eco-conscious practices, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use  Bookdifferent  or  Ecobnb  to help you decide. And if you like nature and the outdoors, why not organise a camping trip?
• Shop local & eat at local restaurants  that use produce from the region. It will contribute to the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint by supporting restaurants where food does not come from long distances.
• Treat the landscapes and wildlife with respect .   Do not come close to animals, do not feed them and respect their home. Always pay attention to where you drive, park your car and walk.
• Bring a reusable filtered water bottle with you . It will help avoid buying single-use plastic bottles that will be wasted. Instead, refill your water bottle whenever you can – at a rest stop or in a river! It will also help you save money and stay hydrated on the go.
• Do not leave a trace . Do not litter and pick up any trash you encounter. Leftover waste can be extremely harmful to the local ecosystem. So, once again, be zero waste and take your garbage with you. 
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful and smile!

WANT MORE INSPIRATION?

• The Complete Guide to Sustainable Travel
• 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure

UK travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to the UK? Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your vacation in the UK stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

💧 Can you drink the water in the UK? Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over the UK. However, I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in the UK? Yes, renting a car in the UK is easy and is a great way to explore the country freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

🏨 How to book accommodation in the UK? The best way to book your accommodation in the UK is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable hotels to luxury resorts.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to the UK? I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

And you, what is your favourite place to visit in the UK? Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

• Share on Twitter Share on Twitter
• Share on Facebook Share on Facebook
• Share on Pinterest Share on Pinterest

You will also love

STAY INSPIRED

Join our community today to receive exclusive travel tips & behind-the-scene stories that will inspire your next adventures, directly to your inbox. Can't wait to see you inside ♡

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

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

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

5 Days in Iceland: Epic Winter Itinerary

Follow the journey.

On the Blog

• Privacy Policy

Become an insider!

And receive exclusive travel tips & behind-the-scene stories ♡

Copyright Lucie Charpentier © 2024 · Theme by 17th Avenue

The 25 Best Things to do in England

• Pinterest 643

From the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to Stonehenge and Hadrian’s Wall, England is a destination that’s packed with iconic sights and bucket list activities that you’ll never forget! 

Stonehenge is thought to date back to 3000 BC, while in Bath and along Hadrian’s Wall, you can uncover 2,000-year-old Roman ruins. In York, you can learn about the Vikings, in Stratford-upon-Avon you can see the birthplace of Shakespeare, and across the country, you can visit medieval castles and country homes. 

But there’s more to England than history. You can find spectacular nature in the Lake District , you can walk along the White Cliffs of Dover, and you can hike multi-day national trails like the South West Coast Path. Then to top it all off, you can eat fish and chips by the beach or enjoy a traditional Sunday roast and a pint of ale at the local pub. 

With so many things to do and see, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve put together our list of the absolute best things to do in England for you. Try these fun and unique England bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this exciting part of the United Kingdom!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 25 Best Things to do in England

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

1. See the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

Watching the pomp and ceremony of the Changing of the Guard outside Buckingham Palace is one of the best things to do in England. This unique ceremony is one of London’s age-old traditions, and you’ll love the regalia, the magnificent uniforms, and the military marching bands!

Buckingham Palace is guarded at all times by a detachment of soldiers from the British Army, although you’ll see them wearing traditional red coats and bearskin hats rather than camouflage. On certain days of the week, starting at 10:30 am, the “Old Guard” parade in front of Buckingham Palace and prepare to hand over their duties to the “New Guard.”

The “New Guard” march to the gates of Buckingham Palace from nearby St James’ Palace, generally to the tune of military marching songs. Once at Buckingham Palace, an official Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place at 11 am.

The Changing of the Guard Ceremony is a great way to experience regal traditions in London , and you’ll be able to see Buckingham Palace at the same time, of course. If you see the Royal Standard flying above the palace, you’ll know the Queen herself is in residence. 

The Changing of the Guard doesn’t take place every day, but generally, every other day. This can vary, though, so check out the “ Household Divisions ” website for accurate timings. 

2. Delve into history at London’s best museums

Across London, you’ll find some of the world’s best museums, and you might be surprised to learn that many of these renowned institutions are completely free to enter.

You can start at the British Museum , which has free admission and where you can delve back millennia. The British Museum is home to iconic archaeological finds, including the fabled Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon Marbles. You’ll need hours to see everything, and there are exhibitions covering everything from the Assyrians to the Egyptians. 

Next, head over to the Natural History Museum , where you’ll be greeted at the grand entrance by the giant skeleton of a blue whale. Inside the Natural History Museum, you’ll discover dinosaur skeletons, the taxidermied remains of extinct animals like the dodo, and exhibitions covering geology, evolution, and more. 

The Natural History Museum is located on Exhibition Road, where you can then visit the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum . If you’ve still got time after that, there’s the Museum of London , the National Gallery , the Tate , the Imperial War Museum , and many more museums!

3. Be impressed by the Tower of London

If there’s one London landmark that stands out as a symbol of the nation, it’s the Tower of London . When the first tower was built in 1078, though, by William the Conqueror, the Tower of London was seen not as a national symbol but as a symbol of oppression.

William the Conqueror began building the fortress in order to control his newly conquered kingdom in the wake of his 1066 invasion, a date that every schoolchild in England learns. Successive monarchs added more towers and walls, built moats, and turned the area into an impregnable fortress.

Visit the Tower of London, and you can join a guided tour given by the “Beefeaters,” who are the ceremonial guards. You’ll learn about the treachery and deceit that occurred within its walls, where people vied for power and where traitors were tortured. You can see exhibitions on medieval warfare, visit the chambers where royalty slept, and see the “Crown Jewels.” 

The Tower of London overlooks Tower Bridge, one of the most important crossings of the River Thames. Here you can see the iconic drawbridge that opens and closes for tall ships passing along the river, and that has itself become another iconic landmark of London!

4. Go punting along the River Thames in Oxford

A punting trip along the River Thames in Oxford is one of the best things to do in England. Punting is a unique pastime that involves using a long pole to push a flat-bottomed boat along the river. It’s one of the quirkier activities that you can enjoy next to the colleges and campuses of Oxford University.

After a punt along the river, you can then take a walk through Christ Church Meadow, where you’ll spot free-roaming deer grazing on the grass. From here, tour the University’s many historic colleges, many of which you’ll recognize from period dramas and movies. 

If you only have time for one, make sure to take a tour of the Bodleian Library, where you’ll be mesmerized by the ancient books and mysterious bound manuscripts held within. 

There’s much else to do in Oxford, too, and you can follow in the footsteps of England’s greatest writers and scholars as you journey through the city. Visit the Pitt Rivers Museum to see shrunken heads and dodos, then head into the Ashmolean Museum to learn about ancient civilizations. If you’ve still got time, there’s Oxford Castle to visit, ghost tours to join after dark, and much, much more in one of England’s oldest cities.

5. Punt down the River Cam in Cambridge

Cambridge and Oxford are home to two of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, so there’s no doubt that there’s a fierce rivalry between the two cities. One of the best things you can do in both cities is punting, and you’ll enjoy taking a flat-bottomed barge along the River Cam as much as you will along the River Thames!

Those in Cambridge will tell you the punting is better there, but we think you need to decide for yourself! In Cambridge, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the colleges as you work your way along the river. However, be careful during term time when the punts and waterways are packed with students (who enjoy a drink or two on the punts). 

As with Oxford, there’s much more to do in Cambridge once you’ve finished punting. You can tour through the centuries-old university, explore the botanic gardens, and visit the Fitzwilliam Museum for a deep dive into the world of antiquities. 

Cambridge is made for cycling as much as it is for punting. We recommend hiring a bicycle to get around the main sights in the city, so you can speed off into the surrounding countryside!

6. Stroll along the White Cliffs of Dover

There’s no better symbol of England than the iconic White Cliffs of Dover. These famous chalk cliffs rise high above the beaches of southern England, and on a clear day, they can be seen from France.

Dover offers the shortest crossing between England and France, and so the White Cliffs have always been a “Welcome Home” landmark. The cliffs reach a maximum height of 110 meters (361 feet) in places, offering sweeping views over the English Channel from above.

The White Cliffs of Dover are protected by the National Trust, and there is a network of walking trails and viewpoints that can be explored during your visit. You can walk all the way to the cliffs from Dover’s town center, or you can drive up to the car park on top of the cliffs themselves.

Dover has a lot to offer visitors, too, although it’s often overlooked as a busy ferry port. Dover Castle is one of the most prominent medieval castles in England. While inside Dover Museum, you can see the preserved remains of a Bronze Age boat, which was possibly used to ferry people backward and forward over the English Channel many thousands of years ago.

7. Pretend you’re a druid at Stonehenge

It’s difficult pinning down exactly which England sightseeing attractions you should visit, but if there’s one place you can’t miss, it’s Stonehenge. This is the oldest manmade attraction on our England bucket list, and it’s thought that this epic stone circle may date back as far as 3000 BC!

Stonehenge is one of those few tourist sights that really is as impressive as you hope it will be. The standing stones, which are around 14 meters (13 feet) tall each, tower above the small hilltop where they were raised thousands of years ago. 

The exact manner in which the stones were erected (some were dragged here from Wales) remains a mystery. Although, it’s clear that they were placed here for some sort of religious or ceremonial reason.

The stones famously line up with the sun during the summer solstice, a time when modern-day pagans, druids, archeologists, and tourists all descend upon Stonehenge. It’s a unique experience, although you might prefer to visit on a dull weekday in autumn when the crowds aren’t quite so large. 

You’ll find Stonehenge is a two-hour drive from London, in the western county of Wiltshire. There’s a fantastic visitors center at the entrance, where you can learn about the local prehistory and how the stones have been preserved over time. 

8. Watch Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon

One of England’s most famous playwrights is William Shakespeare, and if you plan a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon, then you can watch Shakespearian plays in the Bard’s hometown!

Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming town on the banks of the River Avon, and it’s located in the countryside between The Cotswolds and Birmingham. This is where William Shakespeare was born in 1564, and you can visit the Tudor-era house (it’s still standing!), where he spent his early years and the school where he learned to read and write.

It was in Stratford-upon-Avon where Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway, and you can visit the cottage where she grew up, too. Shakespeare also died in Stratford-upon-Avon, possibly on his birthday in 1616. 

If you love Shakespeare, there’s no better place to visit than Stratford-upon-Avon. You can even watch a performance of a Shakespearian play at the dedicated Royal Shakespeare Theatre . This historic venue hosts an ever-changing cycle of plays – from Hamlet to Othello – and while some are staged traditionally, many are now performed as modern, updated versions of the original. 

9. Have a thermal bath in Bath

The city of Bath is one of the most famous England sightseeing attractions. Take a tour of the city, and you’ll discover that Bath has been attracting tourists for some 2,000 years since the Romans first established thermal baths here to take advantage of the natural mineral water below the ground.

You can visit the original Roman baths in the center of Bath, where they’ve been marvelously preserved. You’ll learn all about the Roman bathing culture, although, sadly, you can’t actually take a thermal bath here. Instead, you’ll have to head to the modern Thermae Bath Spa experience, where you’ll find saunas, steam rooms, and a thermal rooftop pool overlooking the city.

There’s much more to Bath than its baths, and you might recognize the city from a recent Netflix adaptation Bridgerton , which featured the magnificent Georgian architecture and grand townhouses. 

The architecture is the reason that Bath is England’s only UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, and you can see more by visiting the Pulteney Bridge and the Royal Crescent. Save time for a trip to the Jane Austen Centre , Bath Abbey , and for a quick stop for a sweet Bath bun at a local teashop. 

10. Go medieval at Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is one of England’s most impressive examples of a medieval castle. If you’d love to delve back in time a few centuries, a trip here is one of the best days out in England!

You’ll find Warwick Castle on the banks of the River Avon, in the historic town of Warwick. The imposing towers, high stone walls, and tall gatehouse can’t be missed, and as you walk under the portcullis, you’ll feel as if you’re back in the 14th century. 

The castle has changed much over time but can trace its origins back to a humble motte and bailey castle that was built by the Normans in 1086. Successive kings added towers and bastions to the castle. Then, in the 17th century, large sections were turned into a country home. 

Today, you can walk the walls and climb the towers. You can venture down into the medieval dungeons and learn about castle life from the informative and colorful exhibitions. Warwick Castle hosts many exciting yet educational events throughout the year, including jousting competitions and medieval reenactments, which all add flair to your day out. 

You can even spend the night in a knightly glamping tent on the grounds if you’re looking for a truly unique experience!

11. Hunt for fossils along the Jurassic Coast

A fossil hunt along the Jurassic Coast is one of the most fun things to do in England. Stretching for 154 kilometers (96 miles) along the southern shores, from Exmouth in Devon east to Studland Bay in Dorset, the Jurassic Coast is known for its unique rock formations, impressive geology, and the large number of fossils that have been found here. 

The tall cliffs of the Jurassic Coast are being constantly eroded by the elements. This oppressive erosion means that layer upon layer of geological history has been exposed in the past and continues to be exposed now. Many of the rock layers here date back 185 million years, and many fossils from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous eras of the earth’s history are waiting to be discovered.

Take a stroll along any beach on the Jurassic Coast, and there’s a high chance you’ll spot ammonites and fossilized shells. In the past, entire fossilized dinosaur skeletons have been revealed by cliff falls, and the area has contributed greatly to scientists’ understanding of prehistoric life. 

All of the Jurassic Coast is connected by the South West Coast Path, a long-distance walking trail that allows for easy access to the beaches and the cliffs. The Jurassic Coast is also home to some of England’s most famous coastal spots, including Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, and the Isle of Portland. 

12. Enjoy traditional fish and chips on the beach

The English aren’t exactly renowned for their food , at least not in the same way that French or Italian dishes are beloved across the world. But the English are proud of their culinary traditions, and while visiting, you should make every effort to try their prized specialty, fish and chips. Fish and chips is hardly a gourmet dish, but it is something that a large majority of English people continue to eat on a regular basis – even if it is completely unhealthy! 

Fish and chips is exactly what the name suggests. You take a large piece of fresh fish (traditionally cod, but these days you’ll get haddock, hake, or plaice, too), cover the fish in batter, and then deep-fry it until it’s golden brown. The fish is then served with crispy chips (large chunky fries), and can also be served with tartare sauce, gravy, or even curry sauce.

The best fish and chips are always to be found at the seaside, although every village, town, and city across the nation has plenty for you to choose from, no matter how far they might be from the sea. Order your fish and chips from the “chip shop,” then take a stroll down to the beach to enjoy the views. Just remember to keep your chips away from the seagulls! 

13. Go on a Beatles tour of Liverpool

Liverpool , the great mercantile city on the banks of the River Mersey, is famous for both its maritime and musical history. And while you’re in Liverpool, we suggest going on a Beatles tour to learn more about the city’s most famous musical songs. 

The Beatles made a name for themselves playing in Liverpool, and you can still visit The Cavern Club , where they played many of their earliest gigs. There’s a Beatles-themed hotel where you can spend the night, Beatles statues, and no less than two museums dedicated to telling the story of the Beatles. 

The best way to see all the sights and learn more about the city’s connection to the Beatles is to join a Magical Mystery Tour of Liverpool ! 

Check Prices on Booking.com

Check Prices on Hotels.com

14. Explore York’s Viking Heritage

York is one of England’s most historic cities, and we know you’re going to love strolling through medieval streets and exploring its intriguing Viking heritage. 

York was originally founded by the Romans, and as a walled city, it became a center of power in northern England before England even existed as a country. 

The Vikings called York “Jorvik,” and for many hundreds of years, they used the city as a base from which to control a part of the country that was then known as the Danelaw. Although, they were eventually conquered by the Anglo-Saxons from the south. 

You can find out more about this fascinating era of English history at the Jorvik Viking Centre, which is easily one of the best England attractions.  

York also has a set of marvelously well preserved medieval walls, a stunning cathedral, and an area known as The Shambles that has changed little since the Tudor era. If you’ve got time left after this, then why not climb Clifford’s Tower or take a boat cruise along the River Ouse to finish off the trip! 

15. Watch a game of football (soccer) in Manchester

England is the birthplace of football (or soccer, as they say in the USA), and sports fans won’t want to miss out on the chance to watch a game in some of the best stadiums in the world. 

Every town and city (and even the villages!) has its own local teams, but head to Manchester to explore a great northern city and see two of the greatest rival teams in the English Football League. 

Manchester needs little introduction for football fans because the city is home to the legendary Manchester United and Manchester City teams. 

You’ll be lucky to get tickets to a game at either, let alone when the two are playing each other, but you can sign up for stadium tours and visit their museums to satisfy your footballing lust! 

16. Be inspired in the Lake District National Park

The Lake District National Park is one of the most beautiful destinations in England. This vast protected area in the northwest has inspired generations of poets, writers, and romantics before. Plus, we know you’re going to fall in love with the lakes, mountains, and gorgeous scenery that’s found here. 

First-time visitors will want to start by exploring Lake Windermere, the largest lake in England. You can explore by ferry, bicycle, or by hiking, and you’ll enjoy staying in charming lakeside villages. Further afield, you can visit famous towns like Kendal (which is regarded for its mint cake) and Wastwater, where you’ll find the deepest body of water in England. 

The Lake District is best known for its lakes, but the national park is also home to all the peaks in England that are higher than 900 meters. This includes Scafell Pike, which is the highest point in England.  

17. Hike to the summit of Scafell Pike

Outdoor lovers won’t want to miss out on summiting Scafell Pike, a tall hill in the Lake District that has the distinction of being England’s highest peak. At 978 meters (3,208 feet) tall, this is hardly a mountain, but given how flat England is, Scafell Pike has always been a momentous natural landmark.

The most popular walking route starts from the car park at Wasdale, where you’ll also find a campsite. This path is known as the “Brown Tongue,” and it takes you up to the top using the most direct route possible. This route takes around 3 to 4 hours, there and back, depending on your fitness level. 

There are many more routes to choose from because Scafell Pike is a unique mountainous area that’s home to hidden peaks and valleys. There are five named routes in total, and once you’ve conquered the first (and easiest) way up, you might want to try the Corridor Route, which also leaves from Wasdale, or the wild, difficult, 10-mile long route from Hardknott Eskdale. 

Scafell Pike forms part of the Three Peaks Challenge. This is a difficult activity that sees hikers attempting all three of Britain’s tallest peaks within a 24-hour period. The challenge takes you to Scafell Pike in England, Snowdon in Wales, and Ben Nevis in Scotland. 

18. Hike the England Coast Path

If you’d love a serious, adventurous, and strenuous challenge, then you should consider hiking the England Coast Path. It’s no easy feat because this long-distance and waymarked trail takes you around the entirety of England’s coastline.

The England Coast Path is around 2,800 miles long, and it links up many existing coastal trails (such as the South West Coast Path, for example) to create a unified walking route and improve access to the sea. 

If you were to hike the entire route, it would take at least six months, possibly much longer, depending on your fitness and experience level. While we understand that’s a time frame beyond most people’s holiday allowance, you can hike smaller sections of the route instead.

If you’ve got time to spare, though, the England Coast Path can be extended when it joins up with the Wales Coast Path, or you can complete a loop by taking on the Hadrian’s Wall hike or the Coast to Coast Path across Northern England. 

19. Experience the real-life ‘Downton Abbey’ at Highclere Castle

Everyone loves the scandalous lives of the British nobility, which is why shows like Downton Abbey and Bridgerton have become worldwide favorites. These shows might be embellished, but they are based on real families, and you can experience the real-life Downton Abbey with a day out at Highclere Castle .

This grand country estate was the set for Downton Abbey , but its history is just as fascinating in reality. The lavish house, with its magnificent facade, was built in 1679 for the Earl of Carnarvon. The house and the earldom are still held by the same family to this day. 

Much of the house has been renovated over the years, with the gardens expertly landscaped by Capability Brown, a man who landscaped many of the richest estates in England throughout the 1700s. 

You can take a guided tour of the house to learn more, with a highlight being the Egyptian Exhibition. It was the 5th Earl of Carnarvon who discovered Tutankhamun, and you’ll learn how inside Highclere Castle. 

20. Enjoy a Sunday roast in a traditional English pub

There’s no better way to spend a Sunday in England than at your local pub, where you can enjoy the culinary delights of the Sunday roast!

The Sunday roast is a timeless English tradition that stretches back centuries. In its simplest form, the Sunday roast consists of your choice of roasted meat (or, these days, your meat substitute) and roasted vegetables.

You can usually choose from roast beef, pork, lamb, chicken, or a nut roast, for example, which will have a huge pile of roasted potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and more to accompany it. You’ll then have lashings of gravy, a Yorkshire pudding, and other sauces such as mint or horseradish to top it off.

The roast dinner should always be served on a Sunday. And, although traditionally it’s cooked at home, it’s also an excellent opportunity to visit your local pub with family and friends where there will be a special Sunday menu. Plus, while you enjoy your Sunday roast, you can try all of the pub’s local ales and beers!

21. Spot Banksy graffiti and street art in Bristol

Head over to southwest England, and one of the best cities to visit is Bristol. Located on the River Avon, Bristol is a trendsetting place that’s well-known for its liberal views and alternative scenes. 

For creatives, Bristol is fantastic, and you might already know that the city is the place where famous graffiti artist Banksy hails from. You can find many of Banksy’s original and most iconic works across Bristol, as well as countless other murals and art pieces from other artists. 

Join a street art tour of Bristol to see more before visiting Bristolian landmarks like the Clifton Suspension Bridge , M-Shed Museum , and the SS Brunel . 

22. Hike the epic South West Coast Path

At 1,014 kilometers (630 miles) in total length, the South West Coast Path is the longest long-distance hiking trail in England. This epic waymarked walking trail has spectacular scenery and an unusual history, and it’s a serious physical challenge.

The trail starts (or ends) in Minehead, Somerset, then heads west along the northern coast of Devon and Cornwall until it reaches Land’s End, the most southwesterly point in mainland Britain. From here, it turns east, heads along the southern coasts of Cornwall, back into Devon, and then into Dorset. The endpoint is in Poole, overlooking the English Channel.

It’s a long walk, to put it mildly. This is no jaunt along the beach either because much of the terrain here rises up and down like a rollercoaster. Complete the entire hike, and you’ll have climbed the equivalent altitude of Mount Everest multiple times!

Despite the overall difficulty of the trail, and the distance, the South West Coast Path is an excellent way to connect with nature. You’ll uncover hidden coves and beaches, stroll through rural coastal villages, and learn how the trail was first built to catch smugglers back in the 17th century. 

You can hike the entire trail in one go (the fastest time is 10 days, but most people take weeks or months to complete it). Alternately, you can hike short sections or even just enjoy a few day hikes.

23. Go surfing in Cornwall

England’s cold weather and cold oceans might not seem too appealing for surfers, but head to the beaches of northern Cornwall, and you’ll find one of Europe’s most exciting surf scenes. The action takes place in Newquay, where one of the best surf beaches in the country awaits you at Fistral Beach.

This long, sandy beach is just a short stroll away from the town, and you’ll find consistent waves and surf that can be tackled by beginners and experts alike. This is an excellent place to learn, and there are surf schools and instructors ready to show you the techniques. The beach hosts major international competitions, showing just how diverse a surfing destination this is. 

Yes, you will need to wear a wetsuit (even in summer!), but you do get used to the chilly water quite quickly. After spending the day surfing, you can then head into Newquay itself for a drink, which has a firm reputation as a summer holiday destination.

Other great surfing beaches in Cornwall include Perranporth Beach, Polzeath Beach, and Sennen Beach, while neighboring North Devon has also recently been declared a World Surfing Reserve. 

24. Take the ferry to the Isles of Scilly

England’s most remote destination is located far out in the Atlantic Ocean, and as the most southerly destination in the country, you’ll find this archipelago is surprisingly sunny and subtropical.

The Isles of Scilly can be reached by ferry from Cornwall. The crossing time from Penzance, in Cornwall, to St Mary’s in the Scilly Islands takes 2 hours and 45 minutes, but that depends on the weather conditions. If you don’t fancy the ferry, you can take a short flight or helicopter ride from Penzance, as well. 

When you arrive, though, you’ll find yourself in a world apart from the rest of England. You can hire a golf cart or bicycle on St Mary’s, the largest island, in order to explore, because no cars are allowed here. Or you can take the inter-island ferries to explore the surrounding islands of St Agnes, Bryher, St Martin’s, and Tresco. 

On Tresco, you can learn more about the unique subtropical climate and ecosystem by visiting the magnificent Tresco Abbey Gardens . Across the islands, you’ll find white sand beaches, excellent snorkeling, wildlife, shipwrecks, and smuggling history, all waiting to be uncovered. 

While you can just about make it to St Mary’s on a day trip from Cornwall, we recommend spending a few days on the islands to really experience them. You can camp out on farms, stay in old castles and rustic bed and breakfasts, and really enjoy everything the Scilly Islands has to offer!

25. Follow in the footsteps of the Romans at Hadrian’s Wall

Head to the far north of England, and you’ll find Hadrian’s Wall , one of the country’s most enduring symbols of the Roman occupation of Britain, which occurred some 2,000 years ago. 

The epic work of engineering saw a series of stone forts, connected by tall walls, built across the entirety of the northern frontier of Britain. The wall is 73 miles long, stretching from coast to coast and roughly following a route east to west from modern-day Newcastle to Carlisle. Contrary to popular belief, this is not the modern border between England and Scotland, as that’s found much further north.

There’s a long-distance hiking trail that follows the rough route of Hadrian’s Wall, and in many sections, follows the remnants of the wall itself. There are many museums and archeological sites along the way. Although, you don’t need to hike the trail to enjoy historical sites such as Vindolanda Roman Fort, Chesters Roman Fort, and Segedunum. 

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in England. What’s your favorite thing to do in England?

Share this on pinterest.

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

Related Posts

The 15 Best Places to Visit in Europe in June (2024)

10 Amazing Boutique Hotels in the Canary Islands (By a Local!)

The 15 Best Things to do in Athens, Greece

Leave a comment cancel reply.

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

London, England   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Doug Armand | Getty Images

34 Best Things to Do in London, England

Whether you're keen to brush up on your history knowledge at the Tower of London , tour the home of the monarchy at Buckingham Palace or check out one of the city's many art galleries, London isn't short on things to do. Thespians will

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, King Charles III's London home, is open for touring (except for the king's private quarters, of course) from July to October. On the tour, you'll have access to the 19 State Rooms where the king and members of the royal family host guests for state, ceremonial and official affairs. Opulently accented with chandeliers, candelabras, paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto, and exquisite English and French furniture, these rooms display some of the most magnificent pieces from the Royal Collection. Along with the grand interiors, the State Rooms, where kings and queens have entertained guests on both official and ceremonial occasions, are also a witness to history. Those who followed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton closely will recognize the Throne Room, which served as the backdrop for the pair's official wedding photographs.

For tours in the summer, recent travelers suggested taking advantage of the multimedia guide (included with admission and available in multiple languages), so that you hear a detailed history of each room at your own pace. The palace advises you set aside at least two hours to see the State Rooms (and that you wear comfortable shoes), while recent travelers advised that you use the facilities prior to the start of the tour; there are no public restrooms available until you reach the garden. Except in the Garden Café, no food or drinks (except bottled water) are permitted in the palace.

Tower of London Tower of London

Although its exterior might be grim and even unimpressive (especially when compared to stately  Buckingham Palace ), the Tower of London's interior is always bustling with activity. Despite its name, the large complex has a long history as a palace, a fortress and a prison. Each exhibition and activity here explores this history.

If you're enchanted with the monarchy, don't miss the famous crown jewels exhibition. Among the items you'll see is the Imperial State Crown – which is still worn by the queen for each State Opening of Parliament – and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. In 2020, Prince of Wales' Investiture Coronet joined the display in the Jewel House. For an oral history, take an entertaining tour led by the Yeoman Warders (tower guards). During the hourlong excursion (included in your admission ticket), the guards will regale you with tales of the tower's bloody past. The White Tower is one of the world's most famous castles and a recognizable London landmark. Inside, you'll find the 350-year-old exhibition, "Line of Kings," which includes suits of armor worn by Henry VIII, Charles I, and James II. Keep an eye out for the Tower's famous ravens, who are said to guard the structure.

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

Step through halls where history was made time and again by visiting the British Parliament. Guided and self-guided tours (which come highly recommended by recent travelers) take visitors through multiple areas of the building, including Westminster Hall (the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate, which is more than 900 years old), the House of Commons Chamber and the House of Lords. If you're not interested in perusing the corridors that make up the U.K.'s governing body, many travelers say that simply admiring the iconic structure's impressive exterior is enough, and an absolute must-do for anyone visiting London. 

If you're one of many looking to snap your own photo of one of the most photographed buildings in the world, the best vantage point is from Westminster Bridge. But if you want a truly smashing shot, head on over to Lambeth Bridge or the Golden Jubilee Bridges on the South Bank for a view of Parliament and the London Eye together. Keep in mind that Westminster Bridge connects two of the city's most popular attractions ( London Eye  and Parliament), and as a result is almost always very crowded.

Popular Tours

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London

(13304 reviews)

from $ 127.96

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath with Pub Lunch in Lacock

(5483 reviews)

Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & Changing of the Guard Tour

(944 reviews)

from $ 93.06

Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

This medieval church, graced by many royal weddings and coronations, offers a magnificent peek at London's far-reaching history. Westminster Abbey is generally busy – and the staff keeps you moving at a pretty swift pace – so do a little research ahead of time to avoid missing your personal must-sees. For instance, if you're a bibliophile, consider a visit to the Poets' Corner. This is the final resting place of famed authors Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens and Rudyard Kipling, among others. If you're fascinated by all the intrigue surrounding the British royalty, you might like to visit the shared tomb of enemies and half sisters Elizabeth I and Mary Tudor.

If you prefer to see the abbey at your own pace, but still want a little guidance on the history you're encountering, take advantage of the multimedia guides, which are included in the price of admission and available in 14 languages. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour (led by the abbey's vergers) and see special places inaccessible to the public, including the tomb containing Saint Edward the Confessor. If you decide to take this tour, you'll pay 10 pounds (around $14) on top of the general admission price.

British Museum British Museum free

The British Museum is both an architectural beauty and a trove of some of the world's most noted antiquities. In fact, many travelers say it's the best museum in all of London. What's more, it's free to visit. From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon Sculptures to Mesopotamian objects, the British Museum is a history buff's dream containing artifacts in the millions. The immense collection can make an initial museum visit seem overwhelming: Pick the exhibits that most interest you, and plan return trips if you feel so inclined.

If you want a little help navigating the museum's exhibits – the approximately 80,000 objects on display out of its collection totaling 8 million items – consider tagging along on a guided tour. Several, including the daily eye-opener tours and the LBGTQ-themed "Desire, Love, Identity" tour and Friday evening spotlight tours are free. You can also book an "Around the World in 60 Minutes" tour for 14 pounds (around $20). Audio guides, which cost 7 pounds (about $10), are also available to rent daily.

Covent Garden Covent Garden free

Though called a garden, Covent Garden isn't all about plants and flowers. Rather, it's a piazza and a collection of urban streets boasting numerous upscale stores as well as bars, restaurants, art installations and more. In other words, it's a bustling neighborhood within London's West End. Shops range from famous trademarks like Ralph Lauren and Mulberry to independent brands. In addition to conventional shops and boutiques, Covent Garden has a covered market area where vendors sell everything from antiques to crafts. Similarly, dining options range from foodie destinations like Sushi Samba and Balthazar to casual pubs. Given Covent Garden's open-air orientation, there are appropriately more than 1,000 seats for al fresco dining.

Covent Garden is also home to the Royal Opera House. Even if you're unable (or disinclined) to see an opera, you can tour the lavishly appointed Royal Opera House. Architecture-enthusiasts find the building, especially its glass atrium, stunning and the tours informative. General admission tickets are 19 pounds (about $24) for adults and 16.75 pounds (about $21) for anyone younger than 16. (Check the opera house’s website for dates and times.)

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Wander over to nearby Chinatown to sample its slew of Asian restaurants and bubble tea shops, and continue on into Soho for some of the city's best LGBT-friendly bars. – Laura French

Regularly compared to  New York 's  Times Square , Piccadilly Circus is the meeting place of five busy roads and is the center of London's hustle and bustle. Whether it's people on their way to work in the morning, shoppers en route to the chain store-lined Oxford Street (just a few blocks north) or lively club and bar hoppers passing through at night, Piccadilly is always thrumming with activity. 

West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a fun night out, buy tickets for a showing of Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap," which is the longest-running play in history. – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Catching a show in London's West End theater district is just as necessary as watching a play on  Broadway  during a trip to  New York City . The quality is some of the best in the U.K., and the constant mix of new and classic productions with local and world-renowned talent (think: Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Angela Lansbury, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Benedict Cumberbatch) excites both visitors and locals alike. Even if you don't consider yourself much of a theater devotee, recent travelers said the atmosphere, specifically near the lively Leicester Square, where many of the theaters are concentrated, is worth a late-night wander.

Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour & River Cruise - 50% off Kids

(9407 reviews)

from $ 56.87

Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour with Transport from London

(2915 reviews)

from $ 166.74

Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket

(4979 reviews)

from $ 44.98

Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A short stroll from Hyde Park Corner will take you to The Grenadier – a tiny pub hidden down a cobbled alley. It opened in 1818 as an officers' mess and now serves beers and classic pub fare in atmospheric, wood-strewn surroundings. – Laura French

Just north of the Royal Albert Hall and northwest of Buckingham Palace  sit Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens: a stretch of green bisected by West Carriage Drive. Hyde Park was once the recreational stomping grounds for King Henry VIII, but now this 350-acre swath of land is open to the public and a must-visit for travelers looking for a relaxing moment away from the city's hustle and bustle. Among Hyde Park's meandering foot and bike paths and flourishing flora and fauna, you'll find a few standout attractions that are worth exploring. Watch the swans and boats glide over the serene Serpentine Lake (or rent a vessel yourself), visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or stop by the Speakers' Corner, a site for public speeches and debates since the 19th century (previously used by George Orwell and Vladimir Lenin, among others). For the sporting set, Hyde Park has tennis courts, football pitches (remember: football means soccer here) and a horse-riding arena.  

The London Eye The London Eye

The London Eye (the giant Ferris wheel found in many London panoramas) is on the River Thames and meant to deliver great views – not a thrilling ride. It circles around slowly, offering an unbeatable bird's-eye perspective of London's South Bank. However, those with a fear of heights should beware: When you're more than 400 feet high, the 360-degree views can be a bit disconcerting.

While some travelers say the London Eye is an absolute must-do, others found the experience to be overrated. Some recent travelers said the lines were too long (upward of a couple hours) and the ticket prices too high. However, many others were amazed by the views, especially  Parliament  and  Buckingham Palace . Visitors were keen to note that this ride is not a fast one, with the average rotation of the wheel at least 30 minutes long. You can also combine a ride on the London Eye with a guided boat tour.

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

For nearly 200 years, Trafalgar square has been a London institution. Flanked by the National Gallery , the square features two fountains, several busts and bronze lions at the base of Nelson's Column. The column, which honors Admiral Horatio Nelson for his success at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, stands 16 feet tall. At its base, bronze panels detail some of Nelson's battles and the two lions are there to protect the monument.

Recent travelers appreciated this famous London locale, noting that it's a great spot for photos and people-watching. However, know that aside from the National Gallery and surrounding shops and restaurants, there isn't much to do at the square itself.

St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is arguably the second must-see church in London (the first, of course, being Westminster Abbey ). With its imposing dome – one of the largest in the world – St. Paul's forms a predominant spot along London's skyline. It's also a survivor: Although an older incarnation burnt during the Great Fire of London in 1666, the current dome (designed by Sir Christopher Wren and officially completed in 1711) survived numerous World War II bombings.

To make the most of your visit, reviewers highly recommended climbing to the top of the dome to the Golden Gallery. You'll have to hike up 528 steps, but after catching your breath you'll enjoy far-reaching views of the River Thames, the  Tate Modern , and Shakespeare's Globe . And once you've seen the top, head below ground to the crypt (the largest in Europe), where the tombs of notable figures such as Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington as well as Wren are housed. Though some reviewers are put off by the pricey admission, most agree that a peek inside is well worth the extra coin.

Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Before or after your visit, head next door to the Science Museum to browse interactive exhibits and live science shows, and catch a film at the IMAX, one of the UK's biggest screens (entry to the museum itself is free, though some exhibitions are extra). – Laura French

Located in South Kensington, this museum brims with data from 70,000 different species (from animals to tiny protozoa) and exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaur bones to simulated earthquakes. The Natural History Museum is also a favorite among families, so you'll find it crawling with kids.

Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

(2874 reviews)

from $ 109.87

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath Full Day Tour with Admissions

(3257 reviews)

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

(1620 reviews)

from $ 489.88

St. James's Park St. James's Park free

One of London's eight Royal Parks, St. James's Park is nearly 57 acres. It's surrounded by three palaces: its namesake St. James’s Palace, Westminster (now the Houses of Parliament ) and Buckingham Palace . The park's semi-circular flower beds – the Memorial Gardens – which sit beside Buckingham are one of its major attractions. The park is flanked one side by the Mall, a route for royal processions that bisects the gardens and on another by the Horse Guards Parade, a parade ground where the annual Trooping the Colour is held. Other notable buildings nearby include No. 10 Downing Street (the Prime Minister's residence) and the Churchill War Rooms . The park also features a portion of the 7-mile Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk and provides habitat for various animal species, including foxes and ducks as well as its famed pelicans. Additionally, runners race through St. James's park as the final leg of the annual London Marathon.

Visitors invariably find the park to be quite stunning and well-maintained. It’s deemed an excellent place for walking while admiring the many historical structures nearby.

National Gallery National Gallery free

Sitting in Trafalgar Square, London's National Gallery features a labyrinth interior so large that it requires a color-coded map to navigate. The museum features paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to early 20th centuries, including Italian Renaissance masterpieces and French Impressionist works. Among its 2,300 in-house pieces, visitors will find famed paintings, such as Botticelli's "Venus and Mars," Rembrandt’s “Self Portrait at the Age of 34” and Van Gogh's "Sunflowers." 

Recent visitors loved the variety of paintings at the National Gallery, saying that travelers may need more than a day to get a glimpse at all the masterpieces that grace its never-ending halls. They also commend the gallery's cafe.

Borough Market Borough Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Across from Borough Market sits the Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garrett: a tiny museum housed in an 18th-century attic of that's the oldest surviving operating theatre (think: operating room) in Europe. It displays intriguing artifacts about the gruesome medical practices of the past. – Laura French

The food-focused Borough Market is effectively three markets in one (with restaurants, bars and shops interspersed throughout). Three Crown Square features large producers and merchants while Green Market has smaller, specialty ones. You'll find everything from cheese to wine to pastries to produce. Borough Market Kitchen provides a platform for street-food vendors. The roughly 1,000-year-old market regularly hosts cooking demonstrations and classes.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick an early tour time and explore slowly. There is so much to see that you may miss small details if you go too quickly. And don't worry about time. Once you're inside, you can stay as long as you like (well, until closing). – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Located at the studios where all eight of the "Harry Potter" films were produced, this is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the Wizarding World. Visitors can view original film sets – from the Great Hall to Gringotts, Diagon Alley to the Gryffindor Common Room – with hundreds of original props and costumes to browse. Glimpse the model used for Hogwarts Castle, learn about Hagrid's animatronic head, visit Platform 9 ¾ and board the Hogwarts Express; this is a comprehensive, interactive tour for the whole family that's well worth adding to your London bucket list.

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

Home to more than 40 British monarchs and in use since the 11th century, Windsor Castle is a spectacular daytrip from London. Visitors can wander the elaborate state rooms, observe the famous Changing the Guard and admire the many artworks and collectibles on display. Should time allow, take a stroll along the Long Walk: a nearly 3-mile-long tree-lined road that is part of the castle's park. Though you'll find a cafe and souvenir shop on-site, Windsor (the town) offers a bevy of dining and shopping options.

Though always crowded, a visit to Windsor should not be missed. Time and again, travelers say that it is a wonderful place to see while in London, and many were repeat visitors. Additionally, travelers with mobility issues said they had little trouble exploring the castle.

Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London

(2142 reviews)

from $ 20.42

PRIVATE London Food Tours - Borough Market, Soho, East End

(222 reviews)

from $ 257.22

Best of London Tour inc Tower of London and Changing of the Guard

(2313 reviews)

from $ 146.06

Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're able, opt for a standing ticket at the performance. You'll get a more authentic experience, plus your proximity to the actors lets you admire their facial expressions and costumes. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

This is not the Globe Theatre of Shakespeare's time. The original Globe Theatre – which staged Shakespeare's plays and where the Bard wrote "Twelfth Night," "King Lear," and several others – opened in 1599 and burned down in 1613. The second Globe was erected in 1614 but was then torn down in 1644, after all theaters where shuttered by Parliament. The current incarnation – referred to as the Globe Theatre by its staff – has been in operation since 1997 and it is a celebrated performing arts venue dedicated to staging the Bard's plays. In a nod to its much older namesake, today's open-air theater has a thatched roof – the only one in the city – that does not cover the central yard. Seating is in the round. Or, for a truly memorable experience, you can choose to stand in the yard just below the stage to watch a performance (as many did in Shakespeare's time).  

Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in December to see Carols at the Royal Albert Hall; it's a spectacular, sing-along show guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. – Laura French

Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall where musicians of all genres perform. It also hosts special non-concert events, including sporting events and dance performances. The building's famed 20,000-square-foot iron roof was the largest unsupported dome in the world when it was installed in 1869 (two years before the hall officially opened). An 800-foot long, 5,200-square-foot mosaic frieze dubbed "The Triumph of Arts and Letters" encircles the structure's exterior. The hall can accommodate 5,900 people.

Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

The palatial Victoria & Albert Museum, named in honor of the 19th-century royal couple, is known more commonly in its shortened form – the V&A. Located in South Kensington, this free museum is a compendium of applied art across a number of genres, disciplines and time periods. The collections are arranged by categories, such as sculptures, Chinese artifacts, and so on, making it slightly easier to navigate this mammoth museum. Among the permanent collections, the V&A also offers diverse temporary exhibitions and free weekly public lectures.

Recent travelers praised the variety and sheer enormity of the art offered here. Many described its permanent collection as surprise around every corner. If you've only set aside a few hours to tour the museum, consult the building's map before you go; a map will help you plan a route of the collections you'd like to see and maximize your visit.

Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

Along with Parliament and Big Ben, Tower Bridge is London's next must-see architectural marvel, not to mention the most famous bridge that crosses the Thames. Construction on the bridge started in 1886, which means it's practically modern by London standards, but Tower Bridge stands out for its stunning detail and moveable roadways that lift up when large ships need to pass through. The views from the bridge are an added bonus. From the elevated sidewalks visitors get a prime view of the  Tower of London ,  St. Paul's Cathedral's iconic dome, the London Eye and The Monument.

If you're interested in viewing the city from a higher vantage point (about 137 feet above the Thames), consider a visit inside Tower Bridge, during which you go to the top of the bridge – equipped with a glass floor – as well as to the bottom to the engine rooms. However, recent visitors say that those who are afraid of heights might want to forgo walking across the glass floor.

Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, which Henry VIII acquired in the 1520s and subsequently expanded, features the Grand Hall (with Anne Boleyn's coat of arms carved in the ceiling and antique tapestries on the walls) and the largest kitchens in Tudor England (capable of producing 800 meals a day). Its grounds include 60 acres of formal gardens complete with the oldest surviving hedge maze in the country as well as the largest grape vine in the world.

Past visitors observe that there’s a lot to see and that the huge palace necessitates a lot of walking. They also recommend the audio tour, which is included in the ticket price. The gardens are frequently singled out as worthy of attention.

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Oxford Day Trip from London

(3271 reviews)

Stonehenge Half-Day Tour from London with Admission & Snack Pack

(782 reviews)

from $ 89.19

Guided Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham

(295 reviews)

Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

Meandering just shy of 9 miles from Paddington in the west to the Limehouse Basin in the east, this charming river walk offers an idyllic escape from the bustle of the city. It passes several postcard-pretty spots, including Little Venice, where quaint cafes, pubs and restaurants sit on the waterfront; Regent's Park, one of London's most popular green spaces and the home of London Zoo; and Camden Lock, famous for its markets, street food stalls and antique shops. You'll also get to see the East End, including trendy Dalston, Victoria Park (home to a farmers market every Sunday) and Mile End.

There's history behind it, too; the canal opened in the early 19th century to transport coal, building materials and other goods from northern industrial cities to King's Cross – a long-standing center for trade – and operated for more than 140 years.

Camden Market Camden Market free

Londoners and out-of-towners alike enjoy spending a morning (or afternoon) at the Camden Market. Camden Market is actually multiple markets spread out in the neighborhood of Camden. It sprawls with more than 1,000 stalls, shops, bars and cafes carrying close to everything, from furniture to food and lots of fashion. Looking for cheap graphic T-shirts and dresses? Head over to the first set of Camden Market stalls located closest to the Tube station. If you're looking for more of a mix of items, walk over the bridge to the lock market, situated on the peaceful Camden Lock. You'll find stalls filled with antiques, clothing, souvenirs and a variety of food stalls. Food on offer ranges from traditional fish and chips to Middle Eastern fare, hot dogs and Portuguese tarts. This area gives way to the long and winding stables market, consisting of vendors selling vintage home decor, leather goods and clothing.

It's easy to get lost in this market, but with all it has to offer, including cool restaurants and bars tucked between nooks and crannies, visitors agree it's also very fun. The only grievance travelers had concerned the massive crowds that form during the weekend. If you don't want to be shopping amidst wall-to-wall people, consider visiting during the week. Even if you're not intent on shopping, many visitors recommend the market for its diverse food stalls. You can find the Camden Market off of the Camden Town, or Chalk Farm Tube stops, as well as the Camden Road Overground stop. Bus routes nos. 24, 214, 274 and 393 also stop in the area.

Tate Modern Tate Modern free

Located on the South Bank along the Thames, the Tate Modern is part of a group of four museums (all named Tate) which house the 70,000 artworks that comprise the national collection of British art. As its name suggest, this Tate holds the more contemporary-style pieces than its three other counterparts, making it more of a hit or miss among travelers. Dalí and Picasso, as well as many British artists, are represented inside this repurposed power plant – but you'll find the works are scattered. Art is grouped by theme rather than by artist.

Recent visitors said if you're a fan of contemporary and modern art, you'll enjoy the Tate Modern. If you're partial to antiquities or the more traditional works of art, you'll probably be better served at the  British Museum  or the  National Gallery . Art aside, the eateries located within the museum may be enough of a reason for travelers to visit. Both the Espresso Bar and Kitchen and Bar at Tate Modern afford stunning views of  St. Paul's Cathedral , which is situated on the other side of the river. At the very least, take a stroll along the Thames to view the museum's impressive exterior.

Greenwich Greenwich free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Skip the tube and hop on an Uber Boat to arrive in Greenwich by water – they depart from various stops along the Thames, including Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Westminster and the London Eye, with single fares from £5.20. – Laura French

Sitting southeast of central London, Greenwich is a great daytrip within city limits and well worth the trek. Greenwich's claim to fame is undoubtedly the Royal Observatory, where the prime meridian bisects the institution and travelers can stand on both the eastern and western hemispheres. Other favorite museums and attractions include the Greenwich Market, the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Greenwich Market. 

Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

Famous for its waxworks, this was the first Madame Tussauds museum in the world, established in 1884 on Marylebone Road to display works by French sculptor Marie Tussaud. During the French Revolution, Tussaud was forced craft works of executed nobles – including King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette – to prove she was loyal to the crown. Following the end of the revolution, she left France and traveled to Britain, bringing the waxworks with her, in the early 1800s. Today, the museum upholds the waxwork tradition, with more than 150 realistic-looking figures displayed across 11 zones – from Leonardo DiCaprio to Lady Gaga, Brad Pitt to Harry Styles and Barack Obama to King Charles III.

Recent visitors were impressed and said they enjoyed exploring the different themed areas – from "Star Wars" to "Marvel" – as well as the new Chamber of Horrors room, which explores London's historic criminals. The taxi-themed ride and Marvel 4D show were also a hit, and many recommended it for families, especially those with teenagers. Several commented that lines can be long, even with pre-booked tickets, and it can get crowded inside.

London Dinner Cruise on the Thames River

(1200 reviews)

from $ 92.03

VIP Tower of London and Crown Jewels Tour with Private Beefeater Meet & Greet

(358 reviews)

from $ 144.77

Stonehenge and Windsor from London

(364 reviews)

from $ 129.26

Up at The O2 Up at The O2

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go early in the morning for crisp air and fewer crowds. Afterwards, head southwest to Greenwich for some food and shopping at Greenwich Market. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Climb over the roof of The O2 – London's arena for major musical and sporting events – for unparalleled views of the city. The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf are among the sights observable from the 170-foot apex. Excursions generally take about 90 minutes, with an hour of walking that travelers typically find rewarding.

Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

Locals and tourists alike tend to adore Portobello Road Market. Located in the posh Notting Hill neighborhood (made famous by the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts movie of the same name), the market stretches down the long Portobello Road, which is considered to be the area's high street (or main street). The market is filled with hundreds of merchants of all kinds selling a variety of common flea market items including antiques, art, jewelry, clothing and food. But what stands out about Portobello Market (aside from its adorably colorful location) is its collection of antiques and quintessentially English items. In just a few blocks, visitors can find a wellie shop, scores of vintage tea sets, quality London souvenirs and Banksy recreations. The market is also billed as being the largest antiques market in the world. If you have a penchant for fashion, the best sampling is found at the end of the market near the Ladbroke Grove Tube stop. There, visitors will not only find the greatest concentration of locals but a great selection of vintage attire as well.

Recent visitors loved Portobello Market for its lively atmosphere, wide selection of items and cheap food stalls. Although many lauded the quality found at the food stalls, some urged visitors to check out nearby restaurants, as many serve exceptional British and international fare. Others also advised visitors to pay close attention to their belongings. Portobello Market is not only very crowded, but concentrated on a narrow street, creating an easy opportunity for pickpockets to strike. 

The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

Delve into London's macabre past at this interactive attraction, which explores the history of Jack the Ripper, Guy Fawkes, Sweeney Todd and other criminals through live actors, exhibits and rides. Smell, see and hear the city of yesteryear as you wander through the underground vaults of County Hall on the South Bank, exploring a darker side to this bustling city.

Travelers said the London Dungeon was a great way to get a glimpse into the history of the city and were impressed with the quality of acting and special effects. Many enjoyed the rides and other surprises, although some noted it can be frightening for younger children (a minimum age of 12 is recommended). Some also said it was expensive, but discounts are available when tickets are combined with entry to nearby attractions, including Madame Tussauds and the London Eye.

London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

Step inside the London Transport Museum to explore the history of getting around London. Exhibits detail the first London Underground, how the city expanded, Victorian-era transport and much more. Plus, there are multiple hands-on exhibits to keep young ones entertained.

Overall, travelers were pleased with their visits to the museum and found the history fascinating. Others note it's very family-friendly, so you should expect tons of kids during a visit (unless you visit in the late afternoon, when the museum says it's a bit quieter). 

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

The collection here includes works by renowned artists such as Titian, Velazquez and Van Dyck as well as various medieval and Renaissance objects. The collection was assembled in the 18th and 19th centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace and then donated to Great Britain. The permanent collection centers on European paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries and includes notable French paintings and decorative arts from the 18th century. Special exhibits tend to focus on individual artists, such as Frans Hals and Peter Paul Rubens. Before going to see the fine and decorative arts on display in person, you can explore more than 400 items using a free digital guide available from the museum's website .

Art lovers generally find much to enjoy here, and many suggest it merits repeat visits. Some opine that the signs could provide more information about the items on view.

Oxford and Traditional Cotswolds Villages Small-Group Day Tour from London

(845 reviews)

from $ 127.91

Oxford, Stratford, Cotswolds and Warwick Castle Day Trip

(2194 reviews)

from $ 102.11

Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

(989 reviews)

from $ 112.45

Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms are the underground bunker that Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his war cabinet used to shelter from bomb raids and plot their steps during World War II. The maze-like corridors tell the story of this volatile time period, centering on the larger-than-life leader that Churchill was.

Travelers describe the Churchill War Rooms as fascinating, and more than one traveler calls it a favorite London attraction. Some say that the rooms are much bigger than they had imagined and that people tend to spend a lot of time soaking in the exhibits and information. Others say that the exhibits have a strange layout, which can lead to confusion when trying to follow the sequence of events. Additionally, this popular spot gets crowded, so most museumgoers recommend that visitors get to the Churchill War Rooms early to avoid a long wait.

Things to Do in London, England FAQs

Explore more of london, england.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Feeling Curious?
• Los Angeles

The 15 best places to visit in the UK in 2024

From charming seaside spots to bustling cities, we’ve got all the staycation inspo you need right here

For all the bucket list places around the world, it can be easy to forget that we actually have some pretty amazing places to explore right here on our doorstep. Sure, the British weather can have a mind of its own and train travel can leave a lot to be desired, but if you’re willing to put up with all of that, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what there is to discover. 

From quaint coastal towns with trailblazing restaurants and bustling cities with an edge of their own, to gorgeous islands that feel nothing like the UK , these are the parts of the country that should hands-down be on your staycation wishlist for next year. These places have thriving food, drink and arts scenes, they’re home to exciting new openings and they have plenty of big events for you to scribble into your calendar, pronto. 

Thinking of planning a holiday a little closer to home next year? By sifting through all of the hottest launches for next year and using our expert knowledge of cultural scenes around the country,  Time Out’s UK team has curated the very best British destinations for you to plan a trip to in 2024. And the best part? Y ou can visit most of them easily, cheaply and without having to catch a flight. Time to get booking!

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best  things to do in the UK 🏖️ The best  seaside towns in the UK 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs in the UK

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Where to visit in the UK in 2024

1.  bristol.

Should we really be surprised that (apparently) everyone is moving to Bristol ? Its cultural scene is just as exciting as London ’s, but it’s still only a short coach journey away; it has picture-perfect streets and bustling, diverse nightlife. And i n 2024, its arts offering is only getting better. A musical adaptation of the 2006 film ‘ Starter for Ten ’ is coming to the renowned Old Vic theatre from February 29 to March 30, while   DIASPORA! , a brand new festival showcasing BIPOC global ethnic majority artists – across theatre, dance, music, visual and digital arts, as well as poetry and spoken word – is launching in May.   Undershed , a new immersive gallery, is on track to launch in Spring, and   Boxhall   – a street food, beer and events space by the same people who behind London’s   Boxpark   – will also open its doors.   

The perfect day Start with grabbing a coffee from Clifton Coffee Roasters  before pottering around Gloucester Road and perusing the many shops (it’s the largest strip of independent retailers in Europe). Then, hop on a Bristol Ferry water bus tour  to see the city from the water . Finally, feast on a dinner of Spanish small plates at Bravas (or check out one of the city’s other excellent restaurants ), before heading out to rave the night away at one of the many DIY-style clubs . 

Plan your trip The 2024 edition of Bristol’s newest music festival, Forwards , takes place on August 31 and September 1. 2023 headliners included Aphex Twin, Erykah Badu and Raye .

📍 The best things to do in Bristol 🍴 The   best  restaurants in Bristol

2.  Hull

Hull became a surprising capital for the UK’s LGBTQ+ community in 2023. From  Monroe’s   to Unit 49 and Cherry’s – named after the late ‘Ru Paul’s Drag Race’ star Cherry Valentine – an influx of new gay bars and clubs means Hull’s new Freedom Quarter is slowly growing its ecosystem of queer-friendly spaces. As well as its thriving LGBTQ+ scene, in 2017 the East Yorkshire city was also named the city of culture. It’s got The Deep , an enormous aquarium with 3000 species, a picturesque old town which survived the city’s relentless WWII bombings, and lots of up and coming indie art galleries like Ground and Artlink . Don’t sleep on Hull.

The perfect day  Get your caffeine fix at Still. by Two Gingers Coffee before having a wonder around Hull’s charming old town or pottering in the shops at Hepworth’s Arcade . After that, head to indie events space Ground to check out whatever arty happenings they have on. Finally, stop for a pint at Ye Olde White Hart before heading to one of the infamous 13-hour parties (yes, really) at Gate No. 5 .

Plan your visit Pride in Hull will take place on July 29, 2024. 

📍 The best things to do in Hull

3.  Isles of Scilly

A lot of people say that the Isles of Scilly are the British version of the Caribbean – and you know what? We’d totally agree. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Cornwall is largely unspoilt, with white stretches of sandy beaches, turquoise waters and plenty of opportunities to go island hopping and dolphin spotting. But there’s more, too: head to the local museum to immerse yourself in the islanders’ deep sense of culture and tradition, sink yourself silly on local ales at seaside pubs or indulge your sense of adventure by snorkelling over the many under-the-sea shipwrecks. Bliss. 

The perfect day Travel to the islands by Skybus from Land’s End – it only takes 20 minutes, and there’s a gorgeous view. Once you arrive, make your way over to St Mary’s Riding Centre to take in the stunning scenery on horse-back. If that’s not your thing, hire bikes and explore the coastal trails of St. Mary’s islands before taking a transfer boat to St. Agnes to visit the Turks Head for a hearty pub lunch made using local ingredients. Once your food goes down? It has to be time for a swim.

Plan your trip The Isle of Scilly food festival is a ten-day celebration of local provenance taking place in September, with mouth-watering events like beach BBQs and vineyard tours.

📍 The best places to visit in Cornwall

4.  London

Ah, good old London . No matter how many times you’ve visited or how long you’ve lived there, you’ll always find new things to discover in the capital. There are a tonne of new restaurants to feast at, all sorts of gorgeous hotel openings and plenty of fresh cultural things to do. Most notably, in 2024, you can dance at Drumsheds , the mammoth warehouse club housed in a former IKEA, catch a blockbuster exhibition – like Yoko Ono at the Tate Modern or The World of Tim Burton at the Design Museum – and see epic new West End performances ( Mean Girls , anyone?).

The perfect day  For lunch, grab a delicious loaded sandwich at Dom’s Subs on Hackney Road for (or treat yourself to a boujee meal out at Morito ), before perusing the cute independent shops on Columbia Road and gawking over the even cuter animals at Hackney City Farm . Head over to Soho for a late-afternoon pint at the iconic French House , then round off your day with a delicious pre-theatre dinner at the newly opened Forza Wine at the National Theatre , before catching a play. 

Plan your trip Book tickets to see the stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s ‘ Spirited Away ’, taking place at the London Coliseum from April 30 until August 24.

📍 The best things to do in London 🍴 The best restaurants in London

5.  Belfast

The Norn Iron capital is criminally underrated. If you’re yet to discover its welcoming warmth and cultural vibrance, 2024 is the year to change that. Over the next twelve months Belfast has mega ambitions to deliver its biggest ever cultural celebration via a project dubbed ‘ Belfast 2024 ’. Set around the theme of ‘People, Place and Planet’, the whopping programme of 24 large-scale commissions and over 200 events, workshops and activities includes a collaboration with the Eden Project, a guerilla gardening scheme aimed at rewilding the peace walls in the west of the city and an immersive music showcase celebrating Belfast’s contemporary Black culture.

The perfect day Begin with a wholesome morning stroll through the Botanic Gardens , followed by a hefty brunch at Output . Then wander through the parliament buildings at Stormont and the monumental Titanic Belfast museum. In the evening, find your way to The Muddlers Club hidden within the historic back streets of the Cathedral Quarter, or if you’d rather eat in, order from cult favourite Mexican place Boojums . Round off the evening by grabbing a pint accompanied by some banging live music at the Dirty Onion .

Plan your trip  The cultural celebrations kick off from March and will run through to November. Make sure to be in the city on March 17 for an ‘enhanced’ edition of St Patrick’s Day shindigs.

📍 The best things to do in Belfast

6.  St Andrews

Forgive us for including two Scottish seaside towns in this list (see: number 14), but it’s a good excuse to plan a road trip, right? A coastal gem in the Kingdom of Fife, St Andrews is home to an ancient university, three stunning beaches, botanic gardens, multiple pubs, a famous golf course and not much else. But it’s also beautiful, extremely walkable and very peaceful, and if you’re after a bit more action, it’s also close enough to Dundee to plan a day trip to the renowned V&A museum . St Andrews has also been tipped to be a hit set-jetting destination for 2024 with the town featuring heavily in the final season of ‘ The Crown ’, thanks to it to being where Prince William met Kate Middleton while at university. Fans, come this way.

The perfect day Line your stomach with a delicious fry up from Northpoint (which claims, like many places in town, to be where ‘Will met Kate’). Then, you’ll probably want to go for a lofty beach walk on West Sands, where ‘Chariots of Fire’ was filmed, before returning to town for some fresh fish and chips from Cromar’s (if the weather allows, eat them on another nearby beach: Castle Sands). In the evening, catch a local show at The Byre Theatre  or sink some pints at one of the town’s many pubs: Aikman’s and Brew Co. are very good choices.

Plan your trip  V isit in July: most of the students will have left for the summer and you might actually get to enjoy the beach with some sun.

📍 The essential guide to Scotland

7.  Lewes

‘Like a box of toys under a great amphitheatre of chalk hills... on the whole it is set down better than any town I have seen in England’: so said William Morris about Lewes in the 1800s. The sloping Sussex town has been a favoured haunt of artsy progressives, not least Virginia Woolf, Vanessa Bell and the rest of the bohemian Bloomsbury set. In 2023, it gained a brand new cultural space in the form of Charleston in Lewes (head here in the new year to catch the ‘Bring No Clothes: Bloomsbury and Fashion’ exhibition, closing March 3). There’s more, too: as you wonder Lewes’ charming wonky streets you’ll stumble past the former home of Anne of Cleves, Lewes Castle , a hodgepodge of artisan stores and delicious foodie spots – as well as the most bonkers pub in the UK, the Lewes Arms.

The perfect day  Take the brand new Sussex Art Shuttle and travel a short distance outside of town to see Charleston Farmhouse , before heading back for a veggie burger at Bun and Bean and a pastry dessert from Flint Owl Bakery . Spend the afternoon learning about the history of the castle and Lewes Priory , then browse the independent shops in The Needlemakers . Finish with a meal and a movie at Depot .

Plan your trip  The stunning Glyndebourne Opera House is hosting a festival of world class opera from May 16 to August 25, while the incredible extravaganza that is Lewes Bonfire Night is taking place around November 5.

📍 The best things to do in Lewes

8.  Newcastle

There’s plenty to shout about in Newcastle (and not just the nightlife, though we love that too). The city’s food scene already had a pretty good reputation, but new openings in 2023 have really seen it thrive, like natural wine and pizza spot Bawn  and new brunch spot Cafeteria :  a sort of posh style greasy spoon, which seem to be all the range now. Pair this with a load of great galleries and pubs, the legendary Wylam Brewery and Tyneside Cinema and seriously reasonable prices and you’ve got a cracking weekend away. Or you might just want to pack up and move there. It happens. 

The perfect day  Grab a coffee (with a view) at La Verne Vintage , before walking waterside and over the Quayside bridge. Head to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art and wander through whatever exhibition is on, before heading to the very top floor for fantastic views over the city. Then head to Ouseburn, Newcastle’s coolest neighbourhood, and grab a pint and a banging vegan lunch at The Ship Inn . If you’ve got an itching for more art, check out the Biscuit Factory next door. After a few more pints, hit up World Headquarters for a night on the Toon. 

Plan your trip  The Newcastle Fringe 2024 will run from July 18 to  29. Catch shows at the very cool Northern Stage as well as a number of pubs. 

📍 The best things to do in Newcastle

9.  Falmouth

Falmouth has always been Cornwall’s cooler town. Home to Exeter and Falmouth university campuses, student life here has brought a bit of vibrancy and edge to the quiet cobbled streets – but there’s always been a glaring gap when it came to the question of nightlife. Recently, though – thanks to new music venue  The Cornish Bank  –  its late night credentials have shot up. From Klub Nos Lowen, a cult folk music night, to up and coming indie bands, this spot is the ideal place to absorb some of the county’s best culture.

The perfect day  Start with a paddle at Gyllyngvase Beach, then warm yourself up with a coffee at Gylly beach cafe . Then check out the independent boutiques and galleries on the high street. (Shout out to Mirri Damer jewellery and Wild Pony vintage.) After grabbing some grub from Harbour Lights fish and chips, head to Chain Locker for a harbourside pint before moseying on to a gig at The Cornish Bank. If you have time, pop in to Beerwolf too, a charming pub/bookshop.

Plan your visit  T he annual worm charming championship  (you read that right)  takes place in late May every year. The Sea Shanty Festival  takes place on June  14 to 16  2024, and Falmouth Week , an extravaganza of music, sailing and local culture, takes place on August  9 to 18 .

📍 The best things to do in Falmouth

10.  Manchester

Manchester never fails to serve up a cultural banquet. After a huge year that saw the launch of Factory International at Aviva Studios, the rescue of grassroots gig venue, The Snug , and the long-awaited reopening of Manchester Museum , 2024 is set to be another big one. The star of the show will be the huge, innovative Co-op Live  which is opening in April, backed by Bruce Springsteen and Harry Styles and already has the likes of Liam Gallagher and Oilvia Rodrigo lined up to perform. And in much-anticipated news for its food scene, L’Enclume chef Tom Barnes is opening his first solo restaurant, Skof , in the Noma district in spring.

The perfect day  Swing by Idle Hands to fuel up on carbs and caffeine before perusing around the Northern Quarter’s indie shops (don’t miss Queer Lit or the Craft and Design Centre). Pick from a huge range of edible options at Mackie Mayor for lunch (or head to the Michelin-starred Where The Light Gets In , for something special) then use the new Visit Manchester Pass to check out the National Football Museum and take a craft beer tour of the city. End with a tipple and live music at YES .

Plan your trip  Head up some time between October 23 and 27 to catch the Worldwide Music Expo , which is set to attract over 2,600 big guns from the global music industry.

📍 The best things to do in Manchester 🍴 The best  restaurants in Manchester

11.  Ramsgate

Last year it was all about Margate , but now, another neighbour has joined Kent’s roster of cosy, culture-filled seaside towns that everyone’s getting obsessed with. Enter: Ramsgate , a walkable gem with a hell of a lot of character. Check out one of its locally-run galleries and studios (including Level 11 , specialising in dog pics), and don’t miss filling up at one of its new food offerings: this year, bar/restaurant Seabird  arrived on the scene , as well as new monthly pop-up Catch at the Camden Arms , serving up a delightful seafood set menu. Oh, and the world’s biggest Wetherspoons is here. You heard us. 

The perfect day  Pull up at Ramsgate Station and stroll towards the seafront, stopping at The Modern Boulangerie on Harbour Street for brunch and a ridiculously good cinnamon roll. Take a coffee to go and spend time checking out Ramsgate’s indie shops, from the records at Vinyl Head to the pottery, books and glass at Island Vintage . Head to the harbour and head out on a seal-spotting boat trip , before grabbing a sunset pint at the Royal Harbour Brasserie . Finally, warm up with pub grub at The Bedford Inn  (top tip: you can rent a room at their brand-new hotel too). 

Plan your trip  Go when it’s sunny and try to catch the town’s  International Film Festival in June or the Festival of Sound in August. 

📍 The best things to do in Ramsgate

12.  Norwich

Hugged by the marshes and woodlands of Broads National Park, Norwich brings the ancient to the contemporary — from its cobbled alleyways and two dazzling cathedrals to the modern exhibitions at the Sainsbury Centre and its Michelin-star prowess. In summer 2024,  Norwich Castle (which was apparently one of Europe’s most important mediaeval fortresses) is set to reveal the results of a mighty £15m revamp, due to include redecorated rooms and the restoration of its 12th century Norman keep. As the self-proclaimed ‘City of Stories’ and England’s first UNESCO City of LIterature, you’ll be enchanted by Norwich’s tale.

The perfect day  Order your morning drink of choice at Strangers Coffee then stop by the city’s 900-year old market on Gentleman’s Walk to check out the organic produce and food stalls. Save room for dessert so that you can enjoy elevenses at Figbar then take in the magnificent architecture of Norwich Cathedral and check out the curiosities hiding within the antique shops on Elm Hill. Round it all off with dinner from Grosvenor Fish Bar .

Plan your trip A c elebration of queer art and ideas, Queerfest Norwich is happening February 8 to 24.

📍 The best things to do in Norwich

13.  Alnmouth

For a tranquil seaside break in 2024, the tiny fishing village of Alnmouth on the border between Scotland and England is a solid bet. Think: wild, windswept walks, pastel-coloured fisherman’s cottages, freshly-caught fish and blissful peace and quiet. Three surrounding beaches make up part of Northumberland’s 40-mile long coastal path — which happens to be a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, recently renamed ‘National Landscapes’ – and as such, there’s a delightful cluster of wildlife to look out for, including adorable puffins and grey seals.

The perfect day Sit down for an A.M. coffee and fresh kippers on toast at Bistro23 before checking out Almouth’s cluster of independent stores like Scots of Alnmouth and Jane and Harry’s. Then stop by the Ferry Hut , a bitesize museum dedicated to the ferrymen of yesteryear. Spend the afternoon adventuring along the coastal path before indulging in a well-earned dinner at The Whittling House .

Plan your trip Alnmouth Arts Festival  is happening on June 15 and 16, with more than 50 designers and craftspeople exhibiting their work in venues throughout the village.

14.  Ullapool

A tiny village and port around 45 miles from Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, Ullapool is well situated for walkers and cyclists to get their dose of the great outdoors: explore the nearby Corrieshalloch Falls, scramble up Stac Pollaidh mountain or to hop on a ferry to the Outer Hebrides. But there’s more to this place than just hiking boots and anoraks. Ullapool also going under something of a cultural renaissance, with Scotland’s most remote club night bringing of-the-moment electronic DJs to the area and The Seafood Shack and new 3AA Rosette restaurant  The Dipping Lugger  attracting foodies from far and near. The town was recently chosen as one of Time Out’s most underrated travel destinations in Europe, so get down soon.

The perfect day Wrap up warm and drive over to the foot of Stac Pollaidh mountain, with its spectacular peak of Torridonian sandstone. Reward yourself with a packed lunch on the top after a two-hour climb, before heading home and warming up in The Ferry Boat Inn  where you can enjoy a slap-up dinner with some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat.

Plan your trip The next Baile/Baile club nights take place on February 3 and March 2, showcasing some of Scotland’s most exciting DJ talent.

15.  Wrexham

Who’d have thought a small Welsh city would have been taken over by Hollywood celebs and become the subject of an extremely popular Disney+ documentary? Wrexham, home to the formerly flailing football club Wrexham AFC, became one of the UK’s hottest tourist destinations after A-listers Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought the club in 2020. The city is also home to St Giles’s, one of the most stunning churches in Wales. Then there’s the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – a huge 18-arched stone and cast iron structure carrying the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee – and two National Trust properties, Erddig Parkland and Chirk Castle . In 2024, the national Football Museum for Wales is also expected to open, with exhibitions on Welsh language communities, fan culture and LGBTQ+ experiences.

The perfect day Start the day at Aussi brunch spot Lot 11 . After fueling yourself, you’re obviously going to want to check out The Racecourse, the stadium that’s home to Wrexham AFC. Then you’ll need to grab a pint at The Turf , the football team’s pub of choice. For the afternoon, hop in the car for a 20 minute drive to check out the gorgeous views from the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and surrounding World Heritage Site.

Plan your trip Wrexham Feast , an annual food and drink festival, takes place in late September.

📍 The best things to do in Wrexham

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

While I'm Young

• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• New Zealand
• North America
• South America

The Ultimate Itinerary for 7 Days In England

Europe , Travel , UK | June 19, 2023

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission if you buy anything mentioned here. It doesn't cost you anything extra.

Historic villages, rolling green meadows and charismatic cities ; the best attractions in England are diverse. If you’re planning a trip to see more of the country, you might be wondering exactly how to put together a full itinerary for a week in England. 

In this article, guest blogger Claire will show you the highlights – the best places to visit if you have seven days in England!

Let’s hand over to Claire…

I’m an England local, and I’ve spent my life travelling up and down the country. So I know all of the best places to visit in England, and exactly what to do while you’re here!

One of my top tips is – don’t spend too long in London. It’s a great city, but there’s so much more to see in England!

If you only have one week in the country, you can see a lot of London in a jam-packed day, and then move on to some other British destinations. 

Here’s all you need to know about visiting England! 

7 days in England itinerary

What’s in this England travel guide?

When to visit England

Day one: london, day two: bath and bristol, day three: dartmoor and cornwall.

• Day Four: Cornwall
• Day Five: Cotswolds

Day Six: Manchester and Liverpool

Day seven: lake district, what to pack for your england trip, tips for visiting england.

The beauty of this England itinerary is that it works whatever the season!

England is at its best during the summer, but the weather is never really reliable here; even in the warmest months of July and August, you’ll still find rainy days and mild weather. 

That being said, in the summer we have long days and generally warmer weather – it can be as low as 15°C or as high as 35°C (it even got up to 40°C in London last summer!).

So usually it’s not too hot to explore, although we do have the odd day when you’ll just want to laze in the sun and do nothing.

Tip: if it’s forecasted to be this hot while you’re here, schedule some time to bask on the best beaches in Cornwall – although expect there to be crowds!

Another perk of visiting in the summer months is that you have much longer days, with the sun not setting until 9pm in June. 

In Spring, you’ll find lots of beautiful flowers and witness the days getting gradually longer, and in Autumn, there are incredible colours as the leaves turn orange, yellow and red. 

There are quite a few places to visit in England in winter; while the weather is colder and the days are shorter, England’s attractions are adapted to cooler, wetter weather anyway! 

Christmas is a particularly jolly time of year to visit the country and in January and February, rates for hotels are cheaper. 

How to get around England

This England itinerary is technically completely manageable by public transport, but I would recommend hiring a car via TravelSupermarket if possible. 

Having your own vehicle will make it easy to hop from location to location, and you can do stop-offs at smaller destinations that catch your eye (Cornwall is renowned for having so many amazing attractions that are just a little too far outside of public transport routes!). 

Plus, taking the trains around England can actually add up to be very expensive.

Generally, driving in England is safe (although remember we drive on the left here!); just be mindful about driving around 5:00pm each day, as rush hour traffic can be substantial. 

If you’re on a super tight budget, it’s worth looking into travelling via MegaBus . The journey times are typically long, but it’s probably the cheapest way to get around England if you don’t drive.

Being the capital of England, London is typically the place you’ll land if you fly into England to kick off your tour of the country.

I only recommend spending one day in London on this itinerary; it’s a fantastic city, and you could spend weeks exploring every corner – but if you only have one week in England, you need to remember that there’s so much more to see!

On your day in London, I’d recommend ticking off the following attractions: 

1. Westminster Abbey

2. Guard Change at Buckingham Palace

3. Lunch in Camden, Spitalfields or Leadenhall Market

4. Tower Bridge

5. The Tower of London

6. St Paul’s Cathedral

7. Dinner at Mildred’s (vegetarian food), Caphe House (an incredible Vietnamese restaurant) or The Sun Camberwell (a traditional British pub)

Alternatively, book a one-day DIY tour of London using the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus .

For the next day, head to Bath and Bristol ! Two vibrant cities in the South West, Bath and Bristol have culture, street art and delicious food on offer. 

Start your day in the city of Bath, where you can take in the Roman Baths ( this 90-minute walking tour will allow you to see the highlights and includes your entry ticket to the Baths), Bath Abbey and Georgian architecture like the Crescent and Circus. 

Then, either drive or hop on a quick (ten-minute) train to Bristol, where you can climb on board the SS Great Britain , cross the Clifton Suspension Bridge to take in views of Avon Gorge and check out the street art of places like Stokes Croft and Southville. 

For dinner in Bristol, head to Chilli Daddies for authentic Szechuan hotpot, Cargo Cantina for delicious Mexican cuisine or FISH restaurant for – you guessed it – seafood! 

Once you’ve enjoyed some of the South West’s best cities, it’s time to engage in its nature! Devon and Cornwall are known for having some of the wildest, most dramatic landscapes in England. 

Your first stop should be Dartmoor. This is England’s largest national park, and it’s famous for its jagged tors with epic views from the top, ancient sites like Grimspound, temperate rainforest and beautiful waterfalls, such as Becky Falls. 

It’s the perfect place for a hike and to break up a long drive down to Cornwall. My favourite places on Dartmoor are Wistman’s Wood and Lydford Gorge. 

Then, head down to Cornwall! This is the southwestern part of England; a peninsula that sticks out into the Atlantic Ocean.

Cornwall has a distinct culture and heritage, and even its own language, thanks to the fact that it was very isolated for centuries. 

There are so many incredible things to do in Cornwall , but I’d recommend sticking to the eastern part of the region for this trip (it can take a while to drive all the way down to the west!). 

Depending on your tastes, you might want to walk through a rainforest at the Eden Project , learn about ancient history at Tintagel Castle (allegedly where King Arthur was born!), go surfing in Bude or admire the quaint fishing village of Polperro.

I wouldn’t recommend driving any further than Newquay; in fact, the Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa is the perfect place to stay in! Alternatively, check out this list of the best areas to stay in Cornwall .

Day Four: Cornwall 

Spend the next day on your itinerary focused on exploring Cornwall!

If you’ve stayed in Newquay, you could spend some time exploring the town’s best beaches.

Enjoy the gorgeous Towan Beach, famous for its rocky outcrop that sits next to the cliffs, or take a walk on the South West Coast Path to see the bright blue waters of Watergate Bay, a hotspot for surfing.

Alternatively, if you want a surfing beach closer to town, Fistral Beach has extensive sands and huge waves! 

It’s a four-hour drive from Newquay to the Cotswolds, so you could visit some more spots in East Cornwall on the drive.

If you haven’t already seen them, head to Bodmin Jail, check out the moor for its hiking or head to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, fascinating gardens that were quite literally “lost” after World War One and then rediscovered in 1990. 

Drive up to Bibury, where I recommend staying at The Swan Hotel .  

Day Five: Cotswolds 

Begin your day in the Cotswolds in Bibury. Explore the 14th-century Arlington Row, the impressive Arlington Mill and take in picturesque vistas of the River Coln. 

Then, visit Bourton-on-the-Water, a picturesque village known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” because of its series of small bridges over the River Windrush. 

Next on your Cotswold road trip is Stow-on-the-Wold, a charming market town with a historic square and St. Edward’s Church, which is renowned for its fairytale-like look. 

Then, head to Upper and Lower Slaughter, where you can see more adorable houses and visit the Old Mill Museum.

The Slaughters Inn is the perfect place for dinner, with hearty meals made from local ingredients. 

You’ve spent a while in nature on this England itinerary, so now it’s time to see some of England’s best cities!

It’s well worth spending a day seeing the urban highlights of Manchester and Liverpool, two of the most exciting cities in the north of England .

Start your day in Manchester by visiting the trendy urban quarter. This part of the city is lined with independent shops, street art murals and boutique cafes. 

Depending on your interests, you could visit one of the Manchester stadiums (either Old Trafford or Etihad Stadium , where Manchester City play!), head to the North Imperial War Museum or see the People’s History Museum.

For lunch in Manchester, there’s nowhere better than the Curry Mile, particularly Mughli which dates back to 1940. 

Then, head to Liverpool – famous for being home of the Beatles! The Beatles Story and Beatles Museum both tell the tale of the iconic pop band.

Finish your day with a cruise on the River Mersey , where you can take in the skyline of Liverpool. 

There are plenty of excellent places to eat in Liverpool – to catch a view of the city, Panoramic 34 is a rooftop restaurant serving delicious dishes and plenty of drinks! 

One day isn’t enough to explore all of the best places to go in Lake District , but as long as you head here early, you can certainly pack in as much as possible!

Read next: Tips for visiting the Lake District

Once you arrive in the national park, visit Lake Windermere , which is the largest natural lake in England. You can do the four-mile West Shore Walk to take in its most beautiful scenery.

It’s also worth hiking up Orrest Head, which is 240 metres high and takes around an hour and 20 minutes to walk up and down. 

Afterwards, drive to Ambleside, a picturesque town located at the northern tip of Lake Windermere. Stroll through the streets lined with quaint shops and cafes, and enjoy a cup of tea with a view of the hills.

Next, head to Rydal Water, a serene lake that’s home to Rydal Cave, a manmade cavern that’s perfect for exploring. 

In the afternoon, visit Wordsworth Grasmere, the former home of the famous English poet William Wordsworth, now home to a museum, gardens and a tea room.

The Albert gastropub is worth visiting for dinner, and depending on when you need to leave the country, you could stay in the Lake District for a night. I recommend Linthwaite House Hotel in Bowness-on-Windemere. 

Along with the items that you’ll pack for any temperate-weather trip, here’s a list of specific things to remember for your trip: 

Adapter : England uses a different type of plug to the U.S, the E.U, Australia and most other countries – so pack a multi-country adapter!

Comfortable walking shoes: Hikes feature throughout this itinerary, so be sure to pack comfortable (and waterproof!) walking shoes.

Rain gear: You might have heard that England has a tendency to be a little rainy – so pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella!

Layers: It’s best to wear layers that you can add or remove, as our weather can be very unpredictable! 

Read next: What to pack for a UK road trip

As a local, here are my top tips for visiting England! 

Keep an eye on the weather

The weather can be vastly different; it can drop ten (or more) degrees in just 24 hours! So it’s best to keep an eye on the weather forecast before your trip there.

Depending on the season, you might want to pack shorts, t-shirts and rain jackets and longer trousers!

Also, make sure you’re never too far away from an umbrella – rain can come at any time! 

Check the opening times

Some attractions, especially in rural areas, have limited opening times, particularly in the winter months. So be sure to know exactly when the places that you want to visit open and close! 

Avoid driving during rush hour

As England is quite a densely populated country, traffic can be a problem! I’d recommend avoiding driving during rush hour; personally, I make my longer trips quite late at night to avoid getting caught in motorway traffic. 

Shop at the supermarkets (and eat meal deals)

If you want to save some money while you’re in England, go supermarket shopping! You can purchase items to make a sandwich here, or if you are staying somewhere with cooking facilities it’s easy to whip up a hot meal. Or, for lunch, you can purchase a meal deal, which includes sandwiches, a snack and a drink for around £3.50. Us Brits live on them! 

Are you ready to spend a week in England?

With gorgeous countryside, historical cities that pulsate with culture and one historic village after another, there’s so much to enjoy on this England itinerary. I hope that it’s encouraged you to get out of London and see some more of this beautiful, charismatic land on your next trip here!

Pin this for your England adventure

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Fitness & Wellbeing
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance Deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Climate 100
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Full list of countries issuing travel warnings to UK amid far-right riots

Nigeria, malaysia, kenya, australia, sweden, indonesia, the uae, india and hong kong have all sent out alerts, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts

Get simon calder’s travel email, thanks for signing up to the simon calder’s travel email.

Several countries have issued safety warnings to their citizens in the UK due to ongoing anti-immigration protests and riots .

Nigeria , Malaysia , Kenya , Australia , Sweden , Indonesia , the UAE , India and Hong Kong have all sent out alerts, advising their nationals living in or visiting the UK to stay away from demonstrations.

Hong Kong has become the latest of nine countries to issue a warning to citizens travelling to the UK following days of violent riots.

The HK government’s Security Bureau issued a warning saying: “Since late July 2024, protests and riots occurred across the United Kingdom, resulting in violent clashes.”

Hong Kong residents “who intend to visit the country or are already there should monitor the situation, exercise caution, attend to personal safety, avoid large gatherings of people and pay attention to local announcements,” the advice says.

Earlier, officials at the High Commission of India in London said they were “closely monitoring” the situation as they advised visitors from India to “stay vigilant and exercise due caution while travelling in the UK”.

Australia issued a similar warning and advised travellers to “avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the potential for disruption and violence” as it urged people to “monitor the media for information and updates”.

Follow our live coverage of riots across the UK.

A post on the Embassy of Sweden website on 6 August told Swedes in Great Britain: “Since the beginning of August, riots have taken place in several British cities, motivated by xenophobia. It is strongly recommended to avoid large crowds.”

The UAE embassy in the UK also urged citizens to “exercise the highest level of caution” and “take the necessary precautions” in light of the unstable security situation.

Elsewhere, Kenya’s High Commission in London warned Kenyans residing in the UK on Twitter/X to “stay away from the protest areas” and “remain vigilant”.

A travel alert by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, based in the capital Abuja, also stated that there is “an increased risk of violence and disorder occasioned by the recent riots in the UK”, noting that “the violence has assumed dangerous proportions”.

It went on: “Demonstrations by far right and other extra-parliamentary groups in parts of the UK in recent weeks have been large, and in some instances unruly.”

The High Commission of Malaysia in London posted a message online on Sunday which read: “Malaysians residing in or travelling to the United Kingdom are urged to stay away from protest areas, remain vigilant and follow the latest updates and guidance provided by local authorities.”

It also “strongly encouraged” people to register with it to “receive timely information and assistance”.

The Indonesian embassy in London also issued a warning, advising its citizens in the UK to avoid large crowds and increase their vigilance.

Violence has broken out in several towns and cities in England and Northern Ireland following the killing of three young girls at a dance class in Southport last week (29 July).

Almost 500 people have been arrested after far-right riots rocked Liverpool, Bristol, Manchester, Hull, Belfast, Stoke and other cities across the UK this week.

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calder’s podcast

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

Blog The Education Hub

https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2024/07/26/how-to-claim-15-hours-free-childcare-code/

How to apply for 15 hours free childcare for parents of 9-month- olds

Since April, eligible working parents of 2-year-olds have been able to access 15 hours of childcare support as part of the expansion of childcare in England.

This comes on top of the pre-existing offer for eligible working parents of 3- and 4-year-olds, who can access 30 hours of government-funded childcare by combining the universal 15 hours, which is available to all families, with a further 15-hour entitlement for working parents.

From  September 2024 , 15 hours of childcare support will be extended to eligible working parents with a child from age 9-months-old. Applications are now open – more on this below.

It's worth noting that some providers may charge for extra services, such as providing lunch and nappies in addition to the government funded childcare. Visit  childcarechoices.gov.uk  for further information.

We recommend that everyone who is seeking a childcare place for September 2024 and has not yet done so, speaks to their chosen provider and applies for a code as soon as possible.

It may be difficult at this stage to secure your first-place provider. If you are struggling to find a place you should contact your local authority, who will be able to help source a local provider offering the entitlements.

When can I apply and how do I get my code? 

Applications are open for eligible working parents whose children will be aged at least 9-months-old on or before 31 August, to receive 15 hours childcare starting from September.

This can be combined with the universal 15 hours to make 30 hours childcare when your child turns 3 or 4.

When you apply, you’ll receive a code to give to your childcare provider.

It’s important to remember that codes need to be renewed every three months . To do this, you’ll need to remember to login to your childcare account to check when your reconfirmation dates are, so that you can renew your code on time. If you don’t renew it on time, you will need to reapply.

You can claim your place the term after your child turns the relevant age. This gives local authorities and childcare providers enough time to prepare.

There is no limit on the number of codes available. However, if you’re applying for childcare to start in September 2024, we recommend that you reach out to your preferred provider now to check when they will need your code.

How do I apply?  

You apply online here on  gov.uk  once you have checked our  eligibility criteria .

You’ll need to make sure you have the following information to hand before starting the application:

• your national insurance number (or unique taxpayer reference if you are self-employed)
• the date you started or are due to start work
• details of any government support or benefits you receive
• the UK birth certificate reference number (if you have one) for your child.

You may find out if you’re eligible straight away, but it can take up to 7 days.

Once your application has been approved, you’ll get a code to give to your childcare provider.

Eligible parents are also able to access Tax-Free Childcare through the same application system. You can apply for Tax-Free Childcare at any time. However, you don't need to apply for Tax-Free Childcare to be eligible to apply for the 15 hours childcare scheme.

Can I apply for government-funded childcare if I’m on parental leave?

Yes, you can.

If you’re applying for childcare for an older child, who is not the reason for your parental leave, you can continue to apply in the usual way.

For parents applying for funded childcare for the child who is the reason for your parental leave, you can apply for a childcare code at the same time as everyone else as long as you plan to return to work from parental leave or start a new job by the end of September 2024.

Parents on parental leave will need to apply online. They may be told their application is ‘pending’ if it is more than 31 days before they return to work, but they will still receive a letter in the post within 1 to 2 weeks so they can access their childcare entitlement.

Parents starting new work before 30 September can call HMRC on 0300 123 4097 to receive a code.

What if I’m on parental leave and returning to work after 1 October 2024? 

Parents who plan to start or return to work between 1 October 2024 and 31 January 2025 will be able to apply for a code from 1 September 2024 to use from 1 January 2025.

After 1 October 2024, the following dates will apply:

It is important to remember that if you are applying for childcare for an older child, who is not the reason for your parental leave, you can apply regardless of your return-to-work date.

What happens once I receive my code? 

Once you receive your code, you’ll need to take it to your childcare provider, along with your National Insurance number and your child’s date of birth.

Your childcare provider will process the code to provide your place.

Your local authority can provide support for finding a government-funded place in your area. You can find out who your local authority is here .

If I receive a code in a letter from HMRC, does this make my code on my Childcare Account invalid? 

No. Both codes will be valid.

If you have two codes, one from your letter beginning with 11 and one from the website beginning with 50, please give your provider the code from the website, as this is the permanent digital code for your child.

If you only have one code (beginning with 11) then you can use this code to start using your government-funded hours.

Please remember that once your reconfirmation window opens, you will still need to reconfirm your eligibility through your Childcare Account and share the digital code you receive with your provider.

Do I need to wait for my reconfirmation window to add another child to my account? 

A parent who is already using the childcare service for another child can add a new child to their account at any time.

Your reconfirmation cycle for your current Tax-Free Childcare won’t affect this.

What happens if I’m using an entitlement for my 2-year-old when they become 3?

Parents are able to access the universal 15 hours childcare support from the term after the child’s third birthday through to when they start school.

If your child is accessing the 15 hours entitlement for 2-year-olds and you remain eligible, your child will automatically be moved onto 30 hours (universal 15 hours + 15 hours for working parents) from the term after your child turns 3.

You will just need to keep reconfirming your code as normal, and it will become usable to claim 30 hours.

You should also speak to your provider to let them know you intend to take up 30 hours.

If you are accessing disadvantaged entitlement childcare for, you will also able to access the universal entitlement from the term after your child turns 3.

You may also be interested in:

• Free Speech Act: what you need to know
• What is the national curriculum and why is it being reviewed?
• The King’s Speech 2024: What does it mean for education?

Tags: 15 hours free childcare , Applying for 15 hours free childcare , Childcare , Free childcare 2024 , Free childcare eligibility , tax-free childcare , When to apply for 15 hour free childcare

Sharing and comments

Share this page, related content and links, about the education hub.

The Education Hub is a site for parents, pupils, education professionals and the media that captures all you need to know about the education system. You’ll find accessible, straightforward information on popular topics, Q&As, interviews, case studies, and more.

Please note that for media enquiries, journalists should call our central Newsdesk on 020 7783 8300. This media-only line operates from Monday to Friday, 8am to 7pm. Outside of these hours the number will divert to the duty media officer.

Members of the public should call our general enquiries line on 0370 000 2288.

Sign up and manage updates

Follow us on social media, search by date, comments and moderation policy.

16 local tips to know before traveling to England

Jul 13, 2023 • 6 min read

These top tips will help you be prepared for anything on your trip to England © SolStock / Getty Images

Such is England’s reach on popular culture, you may think you already know the country before you visit.

Though if you’re expecting to be surrounded by a bunch of well-heeled James Bonds or a gaggle of eccentric Monty Python characters, then think again.

While the everyday English aren’t quite the same as how they’re portrayed in film, television and books, this is a country with a number of peculiarities that are good to know before visiting, especially when venturing outside of London . From practicalities like train prices to etiquette tips on how the English approach queueing, it’s always important to be ahead of the game when visiting this wonderful and varied country.

Here are a few key things to know before traveling to England.

1. You should pack a jacket, even in summer

Preparing for all types of weather is an essential part of the English experience. England’s maritime location in the wild North Atlantic means that even in summer , biting winds and untimely rain showers can unexpectedly scupper a balmy afternoon. 

That doesn’t mean you need to take an umbrella everywhere, but you do need to put a jacket in your suitcase and always check the conditions on your favorite weather app before venturing out. As a rule, London is usually a couple of degrees warmer than other parts of the country.

2. Be ready to discuss the weather 

Talking about the weather is in the English blood and a part of the national psyche. And the more lamentable the forecast, the more likely people are to talk about it. Come rain or shine, prepare to offer an opinion on the day’s weather, and express that it’ll hopefully brighten up/cool down as the week goes on. 

3. Train prices are steep

Unlike some other countries in western Europe , England’s train system was privatized many years ago, and this, along with other factors, has lead to some of Europe’s highest train prices.

Try to book ahead of time (around 12 weeks before travel for the best rates) and look out for cheap advance fares. While not as quick as train travel (and certainly not as romantic), coaches such as National Express and Megabus offer far cheaper prices when traveling across the country and are highly recommended for those on a budget. 

4. There’s a whole world outside of London

London’s big, bold, and full of iconic English landmarks and experiences . But it isn’t everything. If you have the time to explore beyond the capital, you’ll discover a variety of landscapes, people and cultures, and some wonderful things to do . 

From the wild coastlines of Cornwall to the soaring hills of the Lake District , there’s much to see in this ancient land. 

5. Crossing the English Channel means different plug sockets

Yes, England is in Europe, but it doesn’t always play by European rules (in more ways than one, with Brexit still something that people can't agree on seven years after the vote). If you’re backpacking around Europe, remember that the UK and Ireland use type G plug sockets (three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern), so make sure you have the right power adapter when arriving in England as it differs from the rest of the continent. 

6. Many museums are free

England is home to many of the world’s greatest museums , and you won’t need to pay a penny to enter some of them. Especially great for rainy days in London, you can peruse dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum or masterpieces by Turner at the National Gallery and spend the money saved at the pub later on.

7. Pronouncing place names will be a challenge

Alongside some truly bizarre place names, England also has several towns and counties that aren’t pronounced the way they are spelled. Names with a -ter suffix are particularly notorious for this.

Bicester is pronounced biss-ter rather than bi-ces-ter, Gloucester is pronounced gloss-ter rather than glou-ces-ter, Leominster is pronounced lem-ster rather than Leo-minster. You get the picture. 

8. Hit the beer garden when the sun comes out

The English need no excuse to go to the pub on a sunny summer afternoon, and sitting indoors is almost unthinkable. Find a table in the beer garden at the local boozer and order in a few cold pints. Job done.

9. Expect to hear a different accent in each region

Traveling just a few short miles in England can often mean a change in accent, so train your ears to prepare for this. Regional accents are hugely diverse, and while they’re still English, they can sometimes be difficult for even fellow England residents to understand. 

The accent you’ll hear in Birmingham ("Brummie") differs wildly to what you’ll hear when you arrive in Newcastle ("Geordie"). London is a separate case as it’s so cosmopolitan that you can expect to hear a variety of different accents and languages throughout the day.

10. Never jump a queue

Sometimes polite to a fault, the English are very orderly when queueing, and those who jump a line can expect stern looks and grumbling at the very least. So get in line and patiently wait your turn to avoid any awkward situations.

11. You’ll hear "sorry" a lot

Even in situations where the fault lies with you, you might receive an apology. Only Canadians say sorry more than the English, so get used to hearing it and, eventually, saying it.

12. English food does not deserve its negative reputation

Stereotypes about the English are often amusing and sometimes painfully true, though the one about the poor standard of English food can be comfortably consigned to history’s trashcan. 

Towns and cities across the country are now dotted with superb restaurants offering a strong emphasis on fresh and locally grown produce. Alongside traditional dishes , you’ll find cuisine here from all over the world amid an ever-growing list of Michelin-starred restaurants. 

13. Beer standards are high too

The pub is a rite of passage here, and the English love a pint of beer. But England has grown out of its cruel 1970s caricature of warm stale beer, and these days, there are myriad styles to sample, up and down the country. 

From real ales at historic Victorian pubs to craft beer at bright modern taprooms, choose from sours, stouts, saisons, New England IPAs and beyond. 

14. Summer is festival season

From Glastonbury in June to Reading and Leeds in August and everything in between, there are lively music festivals running throughout the summer in England. No matter what week you’re here, there’s bound to be a festival on somewhere. Getting tickets for the big events is a challenge, though – you'll need to look out for those around nine months in advance.

There are also a plethora of smaller festivals that are often great value and easier to navigate too, such as Birmingham’s superb Mostly Jazz, Funk & Soul Festival .

15. If you encounter any health issues, you’ll be in good hands

Visitors from EU countries will be covered for some treatment on the National Health Service (NHS) if they fall ill during a visit by using their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Visitors from non-EU countries with a reciprocal health care arrangement with the UK may also be covered for some treatment needs, particularly emergencies.

16. Measurements can be confusing

Don’t be surprised if you get into a metric muddle. For some things, the English use metric measurements, and for other things, they use imperial. Though metric measurements became legal in the UK back in 1875, Britain has never fully transitioned to using metrication in all situations. Roads are still measured in the imperial unit of miles, for example, and height is often discussed in feet and inches.

This article was first published Jun 26, 2022 and updated Jul 13, 2023.

Explore related stories

Aug 5, 2024 • 6 min read

The western half of the county isn’t all Cork has to offer. Head east for waterside cliff walks, luxurious meals, whiskey tastings and much more.

Aug 2, 2024 • 5 min read

Aug 1, 2024 • 5 min read

Jul 31, 2024 • 5 min read

Jul 18, 2024 • 6 min read

Jul 18, 2024 • 2 min read

Jul 17, 2024 • 3 min read

Jul 16, 2024 • 5 min read

Jun 17, 2024 • 6 min read

Jun 15, 2024 • 17 min read

Money blog: Teachers now qualify for Blue Light discount card - but not everyone is happy about it

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and tips. Leave a comment on any of the stories we're covering below.

Friday 9 August 2024 20:08, UK

• Teachers now qualify for Blue Light discount card - not everyone is happy about it
• Pound v dollar - what stock market chaos means for holiday money
• What people look at when they view your home
• Five budget ways to increase your house value
• Mortgage overview : Home buyers getting better rates than remortgagers - and buy-to-let purchases in decline
• The rise of 'doom spending' - what it is and how to stop
• Best of the Money blog - an archive of features

Ask a question or make a comment

ScotRail and Caledonian Sleeper staff have voted in favour of a walk-out in an ongoing dispute over pay, the RMT union has said.

Union members at the two publicly owned rail operators were separately balloted for strike action following a pay offer that was described by the union as "derisory".

Bexley has topped the list as London's cheapest area to rent .

The average rent in the southeast London region is £1,297 per month, a study by  BLG Development Finance and Online Marketing Surgery  found.

In second place is east London's Havering, with an average rent of £1,350 a month.

The most expensive average rent is in Kensington and Chelsea, with renters paying around £3,322 a month.

A secret advertising deal was struck between Google and Meta to boost Instagram's users, according to a Financial Times report . 

Google had worked on a marketing project for Meta aimed at targeting 13 to 17-year-old YouTube users with adverts promoting Instagram. 

That's despite Google's rules prohibiting personalising and targeting adverts to under-18s. 

Google has since cancelled the project after being contacted by the FT and investigating its claims.

The chocolate maker is giving customers the chance to star in one of its classic ads from the last 200 years with the use of AI.

As part of the AI-powered tool, users will be able to upload a selfie and select their era from one of seven Cadbury ads. 

Users can also select how they would like to be represented and the AI technology will then recreate their image.

Those who do give it a try will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win £200.

The My Cadbury Era campaign is being launched by the chocolate company's agency VCCP London to mark Cadbury's 200th anniversary this year. 

You can find out more here ...

Free Jude's ice cream is being offered for John Lewis reward members this summer.

Shoppers looking to indulge will be able to get one for free at The Place to Eat if they join the retailer's loyalty scheme .

The offer comes as a short-lived but intense spell of hot weather prepares to hit the UK this weekend, with temperatures expected to reach 33C in parts of the country.

The offer is valid until 27 September.

Eagle-eyed shoppers have noticed Heinz Ploughman's Pickle appears to have disappeared from supermarket shelves. 

The popular condiment might have been a favourite for your cheese sandwich, but there's bad news - Heinz has confirmed the product has, in fact, been discontinued. 

Concerned customer Sarah-Ann asked this on Twitter...

To Sarah-Ann's disappointment, Heinz replied: "Thanks for your message. Sorry to say but this product has now been discontinued."

So, is this one that should be brought back? 

We've been running a weekly series called Bring It Back where we look at the discontinued food items that you want back on our shelves. 

Here are the ones you've been calling for so far... 

Teachers and school support staff can now apply for a Blue Light discount card - but the sudden surge in demand has caused the official website to temporarily crash. 

The Blue Light card is a discount provided to emergency services, NHS workers, social care staff and members of the armed forces, and provides thousands of offers and discounts online and on the high street. It costs £4.99 to register for two-year access to more than 15,000 offers from large national retailers and local businesses. 

But it seems demand was so high, with teachers rushing to grab the card, that it promptly crashed the website.

"Due to the high demand we've seen over the last 24 hours we experienced some issues with our website and app," the organisation wrote on X. 

"Please accept our apologies for this error. We are in the process of refunding any duplicate payments and you should receive an email in the next 24 hours with more information." 

However, the move to accept teachers into the scheme has been met with some criticism. 

One A-level maths teacher wrote: "I'm not sure how I feel about this. Teaching can be hard, but we're not an emergency service, and our work isn't really in the same category as "blue light" jobs. If they're going to widen the eligibility criteria, it needs a name change, at the very least."

Another X user wrote: "This is precisely why fewer and fewer businesses accept the BLC. You really ought to rebrand to something like 'Key Worker Card'. The majority of jobs which meet your eligibility criteria are not 'blue light' roles -- the name 'BLC' is misleading now." 

But Blue Light Card hit back, saying: "Teachers are not just educators; they are mentors, guides and inspirations that are helping shape the future for our children. They are fully deserving members of our blue light community." 

What kind of offers can a Blue Light card get you? 

Among the offers is 12% off at Fenty Beauty and 15% off at Bose. 

Users can also get a £30 gift card if they spend more than £1,000 at British Airways or a £110 voucher if they sell their car via Carwow. 

Or if getting fit is more your thing, you can get 50% off an annual subscription to the Body Coach.  

The summer holidays are in full swing, with children facing an exciting six weeks off school in the sunshine (or the rain, it is the UK after all).

Many supermarkets and restaurants have deals available during the holidays to take some of the pressure off parents needing to feed their hungry youngsters.

Here are some of the supermarket offers out there:

Children can eat for £1 at Asda cafes all day, every day - not just during the summer holidays.

There's no minimum adult spend or purchase required with this one.

Options include penne pasta, fish fingers and chicken nuggets.

Children and adults can grab a free bowl of cereal every day at Morrisons cafes.

No minimum spend is required but the offer is limited to one bowl of cereal per customer, per day. The offer is only on until 4 August, so you'll need to get in there quick!

As well as this, Morrisons is also offering children a free kids meal when they're with an adult spending at least £4.50 on a meal.

Kids can eat for free at a Tesco cafe when an adult makes a purchase and scans their Clubcard.

The offer is available on weekdays until 30 August in England and Wales and until 16 August in Scotland.

There is no fixed minimum spend required.

Sainsbury's 

Children can grab a hot main meal or lunch bag for free when accompanied by an adult buying a hot meal from £5.50 in its cafes during the summer holidays.

The offer is valid until 3 September.

According to the supermarket, its kids meals are suitable for youngsters aged five to 10.

At Ikea, children can get a meal of pasta with tomato sauce, or mac and cheese, with a soft drink for 95p.

Other kids meals are priced at a reasonable £1.50.

This one's available every day from 11am, except for Fridays.

As well as supermarkets and stores, some restaurants are offering cheaper meals for children during the summer break.

Here are a few of the best offers we've found...

Bella Italia

Kids eat for free all day on Thursdays and for £1 between 4pm-6pm Sunday to Wednesday at Bella Italia restaurants.

The offer is available with the purchase of any adult main.

Beefeater and Brewers Fayre

Two children can get a free breakfast every day with one paying adult.

The Real Greek

Children can get a free meal on Sundays with an adult spending more than £10.

The offer is available to all children under 12, and is only valid for dine-in.

Kids can help themselves to a free kids buffet every day until 3pm when quoting the code SUMMERKEF.

They have to be with an adult spending at least £10 on other food to get the unlimited pizza, pasta and salad offer.

The buffet can be upgraded to include a bottomless soft drink and unlimited ice cream for an extra £2.

Children are offered a free kids' bento box all day at Yo! Sushi restaurants when dining with a full-paying adult spending at least £10.

The offer is available until 30 August. A maximum of three children per booking can eat for free.

Las Iguanas

Children can get a free meal from the kids' menu with an adult ordering a main course.

The offer, for children up to 12 years old, excludes the lunch menu and is only available for customers with the My Iguanas app.

TGI Fridays

Children eat free with every adult main meal purchased.

The offer is available all day every day for members of its Stripes Rewards scheme.

The coffee shop chain has revealed it is giving bodyworn cameras to staff following a spike in shoplifting and attacks on retail workers. 

It told The Telegraph it had launched a trial across six shops in London and had put up signs to let customers know. 

The cameras are only being worn be team leaders and managers and will only be turned on in specific circumstances, a Pret spokesperson said. 

The footage will only be accessible to Pret's security team. 

Companies have reported increasing cases of shoplifting and aggressive behaviour towards staff in the years following the pandemic. 

Record levels of shoplifting were reported in England and Wales last year, according to government figures.

Lidl recently spent £2m on body cameras for staff in all of its UK stores, while English Heritage - which manages historic sites across the country - has also deployed a similar tactic. 

Vinted has made a U-turn on its delivery changes after it was met with a backlash from sellers.

The mobile app, where users can buy or sell new or secondhand items, had this month trialled removing sellers' ability to pick and choose the couriers they could send parcels through. 

But the move caused confusion and anger among sellers, who argued that not being able to pick and choose shipping options would mean some people would have to cancel orders. 

Some shipping options require sellers to be able to print shipping labels, while others may have drop-off points far away from the seller's location. 

On X, one seller wrote: "This will ruin your platform if it doesn't get fixed quickly."

While another asked: "On what planet was that a good idea?" 

In response, Vinted has now reverted back to its previous setting. 

The company told the BBC that the change was made on Monday.

"We heard the feedback and can confirm the shipping options have returned to their previous settings. There are no further actions needed from the members," the company said.

The stock market slump at the start of this week, and fears of a US recession (as of yesterday, JP Morgan was putting the chances at 35%), prompted questions from readers on the important issue of what it all means for their holiday money ahead of US trips.

I am going to the USA in September for a holiday. Will the fear of a US recession mean that I will get more or less dollars for my British pound? James

If the USA enters recession does that mean you will get a better exchange rate from GBP? Sharon392

We asked business reporter Daniel Binns to take a look...

First, the current situation, and if you're heading to the US, unfortunately the pound has recently weakened against the dollar, so you will get less bucks for your bang, Binns writes .

The stock market turmoil has affected markets around the world, but it was the Bank of England's decision to cut interest rates last week that has had a big impact on the value of the pound.

Higher interest rates tend to attract foreign investors looking for a higher return on their money - and so lower rates are unappealing and can therefore decrease a currency's value.

At the start of the week, £1 could buy you $1.2811, but that slumped to as low as $1.2675 by Tuesday.

In the past few days the pound has recovered a little, and is back up to $1.2764 - but still down overall.

What will happen to the value of the pound if the US enters recession?

A recession in the world's largest economy will have a global impact – even fears about the possibility sent global markets from Tokyo to London into a mini-meltdown on Monday.

However, currency markets are influenced by a range of factors, including important domestic aspects such as interest rates.

It also depends on how a US recession affects the UK economy – it may not cause much damage here.

If America does experience a downturn, investors could flee the US dollar towards "safe" currencies such as the Swiss Franc or Euro. Whether they turn to the pound will depend on the amount of confidence they have in the UK economy.

The strength of the pound against the dollar is more likely to be affected by which out of the US Federal Reserve and the Bank of England makes quicker and deeper interest rate cuts.

There's a lot of unknown factors at play, so it's hard to make any firm predictions – a US recession, which is by no means a given, may not happen until much later next year, when the economic climate may have changed a lot.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free