Top 10 places to visit in England

England, the birthplace of Shakespeare and The Beatles, is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the old continent. While many people flock to London, the country's capital and the residence of the British monarchy, there is so much more to discover in this land of Fish and Chips, cozy pubs, and picturesque countryside. With a population of over 50 million, England is the largest region of the United Kingdom. Curious to learn more about this enchanting and culturally rich country? Take a peek at the top 10 must-see destinations in England.

London

London is a must-visit destination in England, and for good reason. It's a city like no other, with a vibrant mix of cultures and countless attractions to explore. From its rich history spanning over 2000 years to its famous tea rooms and taverns, London has something for everyone. So, if you're looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, London should definitely be on your list! But let's not forget that this city is truly modern, with its futuristic buildings.

You should definitely check out the vibrant street markets like Camden or Brick Lane, and don't miss the opportunity to climb up to the viewpoints like The Shard for breathtaking views. And of course, don't forget to explore the stunning parks such as Hyde Park or St James's Park. If you're up for it, take a stroll through the charming neighborhood of Notting Hill or pay a visit to the fascinating free museums. And let's not overlook the iconic tourist attractions like Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and London Cathedral, just to name a few!

Stonehenge

Stonehenge, standing tall for approximately 5000 years, is an iconic monument that has captured the world's attention. Constructed during the late Neolithic and early Bronze Age, this remarkable site has earned its reputation as a must-visit destination in England. Renowned experts suggest that Stonehenge functioned as both an astronomical observatory and a burial ground.

Comprised of massive stone blocks arranged in four circular formations, it continues to intrigue visitors from all over the globe. If you're planning to explore this historic marvel, it's advisable to secure your tour in advance due to its immense popularity among tourists. Whether you're in London or exploring the southern regions of England, a visit to Stonehenge is an experience not to be missed.

Liverpool

Liverpool, the birthplace of The Beatles, is a city that you simply can't miss when visiting England. You can explore the spots that inspired their music and even check out their museum. Don't forget to catch some live music at The Cavern, the pub where they first played. This lively city is also home to a famous soccer team and boasts a bustling nightlife with hundreds of pubs, taverns, museums, and shopping streets.

When in Liverpool, make sure to visit the old Albert Dock shipyard, Crosby Beach, and the rooftop terrace of the Radio City Tower. You can also check out the St. Luke's church, the cathedral, and the World Heritage buildings, including the Royal Liver Building, the Cunard Building, and the Port of Liverpool Building.

Oxford

This city is renowned for its universities! It's home to some of the oldest and most prestigious colleges in the world. For instance, there's Christ Church College, which inspired J.K. Rowling to create a part of the Harry Potter universe, and Merton College, where the famous J.R.R. Tolkien once taught. In addition to exploring these esteemed universities, we suggest taking a leisurely walk through the charming old town, with its beautiful stone buildings. Don't forget to stop by one of the cozy pubs, like the Turf Tavern or The Bear Inn, for a delightful meal or a refreshing drink!

York

York, a city with a rich history, was established by the Romans in 71 AD and later occupied by the Vikings in the ninth century. Despite its Roman and Viking past, the surviving monuments mainly date back to medieval times. This is largely due to the influence of The Church and the renowned house of York. One of the must-see attractions is the impressive Gothic cathedral, which happens to be the largest in Northern Europe.

Additionally, taking a stroll along the medieval wall is highly recommended. Alternatively, you can explore the charming old town by wandering through its cobblestone streets. Lastly, don't forget to visit The Shambles, a fascinating alley lined with half-timbered buildings from the fourteenth century.

Bath

This city, despite being small, is a World Heritage Site and was established by King Bladud over 2800 years ago. A must-do in Bath is taking a leisurely stroll through its historic center, where you'll be captivated by the stunning Georgian architecture. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to explore ancient Roman sites, including the incredible baths and the remarkable Pulteney Bridge, one of the few inhabited bridges remaining worldwide. Following this tour, we suggest visiting one of the city's traditional taverns or enjoying a picnic in the park. It's undoubtedly a delightful walk.

The Cotswolds

It's like stepping into the English countryside, one of the most stunning spots to explore in England. Nestled in the western part of the country, just a couple of hours away from London, this place will capture your heart. With its charming honey-colored stone villages, lush green meadows dotted with sheep, quintessential English customs, and a serene and laid-back vibe, you'll instantly be smitten.

Explore the charming villages and breathtaking landscapes of the Cotswolds with ease by renting a car. This way, you can stop and admire the scenery whenever and wherever you please. Don't miss out on the must-see villages of Castle Combe, Chipping Campden, Bourton on the Water, Broadway, Stow-on-the-Wold, Tetbury, and of course, Bibury. Many consider Bibury to be the most picturesque village in all of England, thanks to its iconic row of houses on Arlington Row.

Hadrian's Wall

Emperor Hadrian had a brilliant idea back in 122 to 132. He wanted to safeguard the Roman province of Britannia from the troublesome tribes in Scotland. So, he decided to construct an enormous wall stretching over a hundred kilometers from east to west across the island. This incredible structure, known as Hadrian's Wall, has been a World Heritage Site since 1987 and is truly a sight to behold in England. Even today, you can still find well-preserved sections of this wall, left abandoned since the ninth century.

Cliffs of Dover

Looking for a stunning view of the Cliffs of Dover? These white walls, stretching over 100 meters high and almost 12 kilometers across Kent, are composed of chalk and Calcium carbonate mixed with black flint veins, giving them their unique white color. Paired with the blue sea and green grass, they offer a colorful welcome to ships arriving through the English Channel. For the best views, take a drive to Samphire Hoe, St. Margaret's Bay, or East Cliff Park in Folkestone.

Brighton

Explore the vibrant beaches of Brighton, a popular vacation spot for Londoners since the mid-19th century. With over 9 kilometers of sandy shores and a lively music scene, it's no wonder why Brighton is one of the top three LGBT-friendly cities in the world. Don't miss out on the Royal Pavilion, a stunning palace with Indian-inspired architecture, or the iconic Brighton Pier with its amusement park. And be sure to wander through The Lanes, a charming network of narrow streets filled with unique shops and bustling crowds.

Conclusion

England is brimming with culture, tradition, and stunning landscapes. You'll discover iconic landmarks, awe-inspiring coastal views, top-notch restaurants, and international music festivals. Get ready to pack your bags for your next adventure in England!