29 Places to Visit in England You Won't Want to Miss

Looking for the best places to visit in England? We’ve visited every destination in this guide to help you decide where to go, whether you’re planning your first trip to England or looking for somewhere new to explore.

England packs an extraordinary variety of landscapes into a relatively small country.

You can wander through medieval cities, hike across rugged national parks, explore dramatic coastlines or spend the weekend in a picture-postcard market town.

Rather than simply ranking our favourites, we’ve brought together the places we think offer the best experiences in England.

Each destination includes why it’s worth visiting, the highlights you shouldn’t miss and who it’s best suited to.

This guide should help you if you’re an international visitor looking for the best destinations, or a local looking for new ideas.

If you’re planning a wider trip, our separate guide to the best places to visit in the UK includes many of these English destinations, plus more places to explore across Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Map: Places to Visit in England

England is compact enough that many of these destinations can be combined into a single trip. Use the map below to get your bearings, see how the places fit together and identify which ones are within easy reach of each other.

Click on the top right corner to open our map in your Google Maps app. Click the star next to the title to save it to your Google account.  

Best Cities in England

1. London

London is one of the great cities of the world, combining some of the country’s most iconic landmarks with charming neighbourhoods. You could spend weeks in London exploring museums, markets, and palaces and still only scratch the surface.

• Why visit – World-famous attractions, free museums, diverse neighbourhoods, theatre and one of Europe’s best food scenes.
• Don’t miss – Westminster Abbey, Borough Market, Notting Hill, Southbank.
• Perfect for – City break, culture, museums, food, shopping.
• Read more – Our London Guides.

2. Oxford

Oxford blends history with beautiful architecture, riverside walks and excellent museums. Beyond the colleges, Oxford is a relaxed city with green spaces and independent cafés with a thriving coffee scene. The thing we love most about Oxford is the historic pubs.

• Why visit – Historic university buildings, museums, traditional pubs.
• Don’t miss – Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, Christ Church, Magdalen College and punting on the Cherwell.
• Perfect for – History, architecture, weekend breaks.
• Read more – Our guide to Oxford.

3. Cambridge

Cambridge rivals Oxford for architecture, but it has a quieter, more intimate feel, and we would say it’s prettier. Punting on the River Cam, with the colleges overlooking it, is one of the classic English experiences.

• Why visit – Historic colleges, riverside scenery, beautiful green spaces.
• Don’t miss – King’s College Chapel, Trinity College, the Backs, Fitzwilliam Museum, punting.
• Perfect for – Couples, history break, day trip from London.
• Read more – Our guide to Cambridge.

4. Bath

Bath is one of England’s most elegant cities, famous for its honey-coloured Georgian streets, Roman heritage and preserved architecture. It’s compact enough to explore on foot for a relaxed weekend filled with history, museums and the Roman Baths. Our favourite thing about Bath is that you’ll hardly find any chain stores.

• Why visit – Georgian architecture, Roman history, independent cafés, walkable city centre.
• Don’t miss – The Roman Baths, Royal Crescent, Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge.
• Perfect for – Historic architecture, couples and weekend city breaks.
• Read more – Our Bath guide.

5. Brighton

Brighton is England’s liveliest seaside city, combining a traditional Victorian seafront with independent shopping, excellent coffee and a creative atmosphere. It’s just an hour from London, so it’s our first choice when it comes to hitting the beach from London.

• Why visit – Vibrant seafront, independent shops, excellent food scene, nightlife and easy access from London.
• Don’t miss – Brighton Palace Pier, The Lanes, Royal Pavilion, Brighton Beach.
• Perfect for – Couples, food lovers, LGBT travellers, nightlife and weekend city breaks.
• Read more – Our Brighton guide.

6. York

York is one of England’s best-preserved medieval cities, with ancient walls, timber-framed streets and a magnificent Gothic cathedral. Despite its history, it also has a thriving food scene and plenty of independent shops and plenty of Harry Potter nostalgia.

• Why visit – Medieval streets, rich history, excellent museums and a compact city centre.
• Don’t miss – York Minster, The Shambles, York City Walls, National Railway Museum.
• Perfect for – History, weekend breaks and families.
• Read more – Our guide to York.

7. Manchester

Manchester is one of England’s most creative cities, where industrial heritage underscores a thriving music scene, long, lazy brunches and inspiring street food. It’s an ideal destination for a lively city break, and I love it for the cool vibe more than the tourist attractions.

• Why visit – Culture, music, football, a great night out.
• Highlights – Northern Quarter, John Rylands Library, Science and Industry Museum, Mackie Mayor and Canal Street.
• Perfect for – Food lovers, football fans, coffee snobs, social weekends and LGBT travellers.
• Read more – Our guide to Manchester.

Best National Parks & Landscapes

8. The Lake District

England’s largest national park is home to its highest mountains, deepest lakes and some of the country’s finest walking. We go every year to hike, and in our opinion, this is England’s greatest outdoor destination.

• Why visit – Spectacular mountain scenery, classic English hikes, lakeside scenery and charming villages.
• Highlights – Catbells, Buttermere, Windermere, Scafell Pike, Borrowdale and Ambleside.
• Perfect for – Hiking, photography, road trips and outdoor activities.
• Read more – We have many, but start with our best walks in the Lake District guide.

9. The Peak District

The Peak District was England’s first national park, and being centrally located, it’s one of the busiest. Expect gritstone edges, limestone valleys, old-school villages and countless walking trails within easy reach of Manchester and Sheffield. If we had to choose, we’d pick the Lake District over the Peak District, but if you have time, do both.

• Why visit – Excellent hiking, dramatic landscapes and Bakewell tarts.
• Highlights – Mam Tor, Stanage Edge, Dovedale, Castleton and Monsal Trail.
• Perfect for – Hiking, climbing and weekend escapes, eating Bakewell tarts.
• Read more – Our Peak District guide.

10. Dartmoor

Dartmoor is one of England’s wildest landscapes, where granite tors rise above open moorland dotted with ancient stone circles, grazing ponies and winding rivers. With hundreds of miles of walking trails and a feeling of real remoteness, we love going to Dartmoor to feel like we’re getting away from everything.

• Why visit – Wild moorland, dramatic granite tors, excellent hiking and rich prehistoric history.
• Highlights – Haytor, Hound Tor, Lydford Gorge, Wistman’s Wood, Bellever Forest and the ancient stone circles.
• Perfect for – Hiking, wild landscapes, photography, road trips and classic country pubs.
• Read more – Our guide to Dartmoor.

11. Northumberland

Northumberland is one of England’s most underrated destinations, combining vast beaches, rugged castles, rolling hills and some of the darkest skies in Europe. With fewer visitors than many of England’s better-known regions, we go here to enjoy wild, spectacular scenery while escaping the crowds.

• Why visit – Dramatic coastline, crumbling castles, excellent walking, dark skies and uncrowded landscapes.
• Don’t miss – Bamburgh Castle,  Dunstanburgh Castle, Holy Island (Lindisfarne), Northumberland National Park, Sycamore Gap.
• Perfect for – Road trips, hiking, history, photography and escaping the crowds.
• Read more – Our guide to Northumberland.

12. Yorkshire Dales

We have a soft spot for the Yorkshire Dales, which is possibly England’s wildest national park. There are rolling green valleys, limestone cliffs and traditional stone villages linked by some of the country’s best walking trails. It’s been farming land for centuries, which shows in the down-to-earth nature of the people.

• Why visit – Beautiful limestone scenery, excellent hiking, charming villages, waterfalls and quiet country roads.
• Don’t miss – Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, Aysgarth Falls, Ribblehead Viaduct, Ingleborough and the charming villages of Grassington and Kettlewell.
• Perfect for – Hiking, road trips, photography and escaping into the countryside.
• Read more – Our guide to the Yorkshire Dales.

Best Coastal Destinations

13. Cornwall

Cornwall combines dramatic cliffs, turquoise coves and charming fishing villages with some of England’s best beaches. You can hike part of the South West Coast Path, surf, or simply enjoy fresh seafood overlooking the sea. It can be busy, so we always try to visit off-season as much as possible.

• Why visit – Stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, coastal walks and picturesque villages.
• Don’t miss – St Michael’s Mount, Minack Theatre, Kynance Cove, St Ives and Tintagel Castle.
• Perfect for – Beaches, surfing, coastal walks and summer holidays.
• Read more – Our Cornwall guide.

14. The Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast is England’s most spectacular stretch of coastline, with dramatic cliffs stretching across Dorset and Devon. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find fossil-rich beaches, natural arches and wonderful coastal walks. But the highlight for us is the thriving craft beer scene.

• Why visit – Dramatic coastal scenery, fascinating geology, beautiful beaches and wonderful coastal walks.
• Don’t miss – Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, Old Harry Rocks, Lyme Regis, West Bay and the South West Coast Path.
• Perfect for – Coastal walks, photography, geology, beaches, craft beer and road trips.
• Read more – Our guide to the Jurassic Coast.

15. The Seven Sisters

The Seven Sisters is our go-to when we’re looking for dramatic coastal scenery, close to London. The views are spectacular, with a series of bright white chalk cliffs rising above the English Channel on the edge of the South Downs. The coastal path from Seaford to Eastbourne links beaches, viewpoints and peaceful countryside.

• Why visit – Iconic white cliffs, spectacular coastal walks, beautiful viewpoints and easy access from London.
• Don’t miss – Beachy Head, Birling Gap, Cuckmere Haven, Seaford Head and the South Downs Way.
• Perfect for – Walking, photography, day trips and coastal escapes.
• Read more – Our guide to visiting the Seven Sisters.

16. Rye and Camber Sands

Rye and Camber Sands make one of England’s best coastal escapes, combining a medieval town with one of the country’s loveliest sandy beaches. Spend the morning wandering Rye’s cobbled lanes before heading to the dunes and wide-open shoreline at Camber Sands.

• Why visit – A charming medieval town, a beautiful sandy beach, excellent pubs and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
• Don’t miss – Mermaid Street, Rye Nature Reserve, Lamb House, Camber Sands, the dunes and sunset over the beach.
• Perfect for – Couples, photography, coastal walks and weekend escapes.
• Read more – Our guide to Rye and Camber Sands.

17. Whitstable

Whitstable is one of the coolest seaside towns in England, known for its colourful beach huts, working harbour and excellent seafood. It’s smaller and quieter than Brighton, so we love it for a relaxing day by the sea with some of the best seafood you’ll get in the country.

• Why visit – Fresh seafood, a traditional seaside atmosphere, independent shops and an attractive shingle beach.
• Don’t miss – Whitstable Harbour, the beach huts, Tankerton Slopes, Whitstable Castle, fresh oysters and a walk along the Saxon Shore Way.
• Perfect for – Food lovers, couples, coastal walks and relaxed weekend breaks.
• Read more – Our guide to Whitstable.

18. Pedn Vounder

If you think England doesn’t have great beaches, you should go to Pedn Vounder. Turquoise water, golden sand and towering granite cliffs create scenery that feels more Mediterranean than Cornish. It requires a short but steep walk, and there are no facilities, but it’s worth it for the secluded beach bliss.

• Why visit – Crystal-clear water, dramatic coastal scenery, and a secluded beach setting.
• Don’t miss – The viewpoint above Pedn Vounder, Porthcurno Beach, Logan Rock, the South West Coast Path and Minack Theatre, which are all nearby.
• Perfect for – Beach lovers, unplugged weekends, coastal walks and summer road trips.
• Read more – Our guide to Pedn Vounder.

Best Countryside & Villages

19. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is where we’d send anyone looking for picture-postcard England. Think Midsomer Murders, Inspector Morse and The Vicar of Dibley: honey-coloured stone villages, thatched cottages, rolling hills dotted with sheep and winding country lanes.

• Why visit – Beautiful villages, rolling countryside, scenic walks, historic market towns and traditional country pubs.
• Don’t miss – Castle Combe, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Broadway Tower, Painswick and the Cotswold Way.
• Perfect for – Couples, road trips, walking holidays, and English countryside escapes.
• Read more – Our guide to the Cotswolds.

20. The Chilterns

We go to the Chilterns a lot because it’s the easiest and closest country escape from London. It’s a peaceful landscape of rolling chalk hills, ancient beech woodlands and picturesque villages, criss-crossed by walking trails.

• Why visit – Beautiful walking, ancient woodlands, charming villages, and easy access from London.
• Don’t miss – The Ridgeway, Coombe Hill, the Ashridge Estate, Ivinghoe Beacon, the Hambleden Valley and the village of Turville.
• Perfect for – Walking, cycling, country pubs, and day trips from London.
• Read more – Our guide to the Chilterns.

21. The Malvern Hills

Ledbury and the Malvern Hills combine one of England’s prettiest market towns with a chain of grassy ridges offering some diverse panoramic views. We love it for the peaceful towns and timeless rural atmosphere.

• Why visit – Beautiful hill walks, sweeping views, a charming market town and a relaxed rural atmosphere.
• Don’t miss – Worcestershire Beacon, British Camp, Eastnor Castle, the ridge walk, Ledbury’s timber-framed Market House.
• Perfect for – Hiking, photography, countryside escapes and weekend breaks.
• Read more – Our guide to the Malvern Hills.

22. Cheddar Gorge and the Mendips

Cheddar Gorge and the Mendip Hills combine dramatic limestone scenery with rolling countryside, hidden caves and some of England’s best short walks. From towering cliffs to ancient woodlands and traditional villages, it’s a surprisingly varied landscape that’s perfect for a weekend escape.

• Why visit – Spectacular limestone scenery, scenic walks, fascinating caves, panoramic viewpoints and charming villages.
• Don’t miss – Cheddar Gorge, Jacob’s Ladder, Gough’s Cave, Ebbor Gorge, Crook Peak and the villages of Cheddar and Wells.
• Perfect for – Hiking, photography, families and road trips.

Best Historic Towns & Places

23. Arundel

Arundel is one of our favourite market towns in England, where a magnificent medieval castle overlooks cobbled streets lined with independent shops, galleries and traditional pubs. You can combine a visit with some lovely riverside walks.

• Why visit – A magnificent castle, historic streets, independent shops, and riverside walks.
• Don’t miss – Arundel Castle, Arundel Cathedral, Swanbourne Lake, the River Arun, Arundel Wetland Centre and the town’s antique shops and cafés.
• Perfect for – History, couples, photography and weekend escapes.
• Read more – Our guide to Arundel.

24. Lewes

Lewes is an attractive market town, with medieval streets, bookshops, historic pubs and a Norman castle. Surrounded by the South Downs and just a short distance from the Sussex coast, it’s an excellent base for combining English countryside with a trip to the coast.

• Why visit – Historic streets, independent shops, excellent pubs, rich history and easy access to the South Downs.
• Don’t miss – Lewes Castle, Anne of Cleves House, the High Street, Harvey’s Brewery,
• Perfect for – History, food and drink, walking and relaxed weekend breaks.

25. Ludlow

Ludlow is a market town with a beautifully preserved medieval centre, an impressive castle, and an outstanding food scene. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Welsh Marches, the location is stunning, and it has some of the best restaurants in the country.

• Why visit – A beautifully preserved medieval town, a foodie weekend, and easy access to the Shropshire Hills.
• Don’t miss – Ludlow Castle, the medieval streets, St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow Market, local food producers and nearby walks in the Shropshire Hills.
• Perfect for – Food lovers, history, couples and countryside escapes.

26. Stonehenge & Salisbury

Stonehenge and Salisbury combine one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments with one of England’s finest cathedral cities. Just a short drive apart, you can easily see them both in one day. Salisbury is one of our favourite of the bigger towns in England, with medieval streets and traditional pubs.

• Why visit – Iconic prehistoric history, magnificent medieval architecture, fascinating museums and a beautiful cathedral city.
• Don’t miss – Stonehenge, Salisbury Cathedral, the Magna Carta, Old Sarum, Mompesson House.
• Perfect for – History, archaeology, architecture.

27. Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is England’s most remarkable Roman monument, stretching 73 miles across the country’s wild northern landscapes. Built almost 2,000 years ago to mark the northern frontier of the Roman Empire, today it’s a wild location for some really interesting walks.

• Why visit – Remarkable Roman history, spectacular countryside, and well-preserved forts.
• Don’t miss – Housesteads Roman Fort, Sycamore Gap, Vindolanda, Steel Rigg, Birdoswald Roman Fort and a walk along Hadrian’s Wall Path.
• Perfect for – History, hiking, photography and road trips.
• Read more – Our guide to Hadrian’s Wall.

28. Windsor

Windsor Castle has been a royal residence for nearly 1,000 years and is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. A trip to Windsor combines royal heritage with attractive riverside walks, independent shops and traditional pubs.

• Why visit – Royal history, a spectacular castle, charming riverside setting and easy access from London.
• Don’t miss – Windsor Castle, St George’s Chapel, the Long Walk, Eton College, Windsor Great Park.
• Perfect for – History, royal landmarks, couples and day trips from London.

29. Canterbury

Although most famous for the cathedral, Canterbury is a wonderful historic city with beautiful medieval streets, timber-framed buildings, relaxing gardens and a wonderful food scene. There are multiple UNESCO-listed sites in the city, making it a great option for history buffs.

• Why visit – A UNESCO-listed cathedral, rich medieval history, charming streets and excellent independent cafés and shops.
• Don’t miss – Canterbury Cathedral, the Westgate Towers, St Augustine’s Abbey, a punt on the River Stour.
• Perfect for – History, architecture, culture and day trips from London.
• Read more – Our guide to Canterbury.

More Guides for Your UK Trip

• Put your trip together with our 2-week UK itinerary by train.
• Follow our 4-day London Itinerary for the best of the capital.
• Visit York on a day trip from London.
• Plan your stay in the capital with our area & hotel guide to London.
• All our top places to see in England are here.
• Feeling adventurous? Try these outdoor experiences in England & the UK.
• These wild swimming spots in the Lake District are perfect after a long hike.
• Find more great things to do in the Cotswolds here.
• Enjoy one of these country walks in the Cotswolds.
• Our guide to the top places to see in the UK might give you some ideas for your next trip.