Beyond London – Must-See Spots in England

If you’re planning to explore England, you’ll want to venture outside London and experience other parts of England. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, charming villages, and vibrant cultural scene, there’s something for everyone in this wonderful country. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, England’s diverse attractions promise a memorable experience that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Iconic Castles, Ancient Ruins, Historic Landmarks and Natural wanders

Visit the iconic Windsor Castle, the royal residence of the British monarch for over 900 years, and the romantic ruins of medieval Corfe Castle. 

Travel back in time and discover the mysterious monoliths of Stonehenge, an enigma of Neolithic engineering and design.

Explore the ancient Roman Baths in Bath, still in use since the 1st century AD, and contemplate the craftsmanship of the Gothic masterpiece of Westminster Abbey.

For historical landmarks:

• Wander through the charming streets of the old town of York where a great number of historical landmarks are located, such as the Viking Museum or York Castle Museum.
•  Do not miss out a visit to the 12th-century York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe, and discover the gruesome past of the infamous Tower of London.

England’s diverse landscape is home to an array of:

• Scenic landscapes,
• National parks
• Outdoor adventures

Some of the best places to go to if you are looking into enjoying the outdoors:

• The Lake District
• The Cotswolds
• Dartmoor National Park
• The Jurassic Coast

These places hold amazing activities such as:

• Hiking, boating, fishing, and wildlife spotting.
• Cycling, horse riding, hot air ballooning, and village tours.
• Climbing and letterboxing.
• The Jurassic Coast allows you to rockpooling, fossil hunting, kayaking, and coastal walks.

We know how overwhelming choosing the right experience can be so please take some time to think what activities suit you best and then see which of these four places can provide you the best experience.

Cultural Delights in England

England’s rich cultural scene offers a plethora of options for art enthusiasts and a lot of the art galleries and museums have free entrance. Some places you cannot miss visiting while in London are:

• Tate Modern Modern
• The National Gallery
• The V&A Museum

If you’re a fan of theater, don’t miss a trip to London’s West End to experience the thrill of a live performance in iconic venues like the Royal Shakespeare Company or the National Theatre. 

One of the best ways to het to know the West End and it’s history is to go on a walking tour.

For a more cultural experience, consider attending a traditional English tea ceremony. Enjoy scones, tea sandwiches, and delicious sweets while taking in the charming atmosphere. We recommend the following places:

• Fortnum & Mason, London
• Bettys, York
• The Ritz, London

The Charm of English Villages

England’s countryside has some of the most picturesque streets lined with thatched-roof cottages and traditional architecture, you can find in Europe, preserving a timeless allure that has spanned centuries.

The architecture of English villages is rooted in tradition, with old-world styles that evoke a sense of timeless charm. The buildings are often constructed from local materials like limestone, brick, and timber, with thatched or slate roofs that lend a rustic feel to the surroundings.

Some of the most beautiful villages are:

• Lavenham
• Bibury
• Colvelly
• Castle Combe
• Bourton-on-the-Water
• Staithes

These villages are nestled in beautiful natural surroundings, with rolling hills, forests, and rivers that provide a stunning backdrop for your exploration.

Traditional Cuisine and foodie destinations

Prepare your taste buds for a journey through England’s rich culinary scene. One of England’s most beloved dishes is fish and chips, crispy fish served with golden fries, often wrapped in newspaper.  Head to The Golden Hind in London or The Magpie Cafe in Whitby for a taste of this British classic.

Another must-try English dish is the full English breakfast, a hearty meal consisting of bacon, eggs, sausage, baked beans, grilled tomato, mushrooms, and black pudding. If you’re in London, visit The Breakfast Club for their famous take on this classic dish.

England is home to several foodie destinations, such as:

• Borough Market in London, where you can find a variety of artisanal and locally sourced produce. With over 100 vendors, this market is a food lover’s dream.
• The town of Bath offers a good food experience when it comes to sweets. Try the Bath bun, a sweet bread topped with sugar and dried fruit.
• Visit Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House for the original recipe.
• In Cornwall, try a pasty, a baked pastry filled with meat and vegetables.
• Visit The Cornish Bakery for a taste of this regional specialty.
• In the Lake District, try a Cumberland sausage, a long coiled sausage made with pork and herbs. 

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature-lover, or a foodie, England has something to offer everyone. Take the time to plan your trip, and don’t be afraid to step off the beaten path and discover your own hidden gems.

To learn more about what cities and places to travel in the UK have a look at these articles:

Can you travel to all UK cities in 24 Hours?

Top 10 Places To Visit In The UK