Best Places To Visit in England Other Than London

England

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Last updated:
14.06.2022

There are numerous things to do in London, but every traveler knows that England is much more than the capital. There are plenty of awe-inspiring places to visit in England from spectacular coastlines to historical old towns and local sights. Ready to look beyond the capital?

1. York

York is the city with Roman roots and Viking past, once called Jorvik, today it is one of the most picturesque towns in England. Like stepping back to the Middle Ages, the walled city has something impressive around every corner. If you get a chance to visit York, use it properly! Walk through the narrow alleys, shop at lovely boutiques, pop in cozy cafes for an afternoon tea, and witness many other attractions.

York Minister, England

Without a question, you should visit the must-see highlights of the city, including the 13th - century Gothic cathedral, York Minster, as well as the best-known National Railway Museum that boasts plenty of artifacts and authentic locomotives. Did you know that the city was voted the best place to live in the United Kingdom by the Sunday Times? Sounds like it is worth visiting, doesn’t it?

Top Attraction in York, England:

  • York Minster;
  • National Railway Museum;
  • Clifford's Tower;
  • Shambles Street.

2. Oxford

Worldwide known for its one of the oldest universities in Europe, Oxford is full of places waiting to be discovered. The city has grown up with plenty of well-known great people that shaped it into the town of art, science, history, and inspiration. Thanks to knowledgeable people, many museums were established in the city including the Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of the History of Science, and the must-see Ashmolean Museum. No need to mention, visiting the University of Oxford is the top thing to do in England. Explore the beating heart of the town and uncover exciting secrets.

Beautiful Oxford Town in England

The old city dates back to the 12th-century, and today is still full of vivid youth that keeps Oxford vibrant. Did you know that Oxford houses one of the oldest pubs in the entire United Kingdom? Some of these pubs date back to the 13th-century, imagine spending your evening there: authentic interior, the atmosphere that brings you many centuries back, and wide options of drinks. Undoubtedly, this experience is worth including to your list of England attractions.

What is more, taking a London to Oxford train is the best option if you want to get the most out of your trip to United Kindom.

Did you know?
Oxford is home to the oldest pub in England! It was established back in the 13th century.

3. Bath

If you are wondering what is the most beautiful city in England, we can’t give you one right answer, but we are sure that Bath would make it to the shortlist. Did you know that Bath is the only place in the United Kingdom to have the whole city included in the UNESCO Heritage Site? Indeed, it deserves that! The town was named after famous Roman baths that were discovered over 2,000 years ago. Numerous people worldwide come to experience relaxing thermal baths, so do not hesitate to treat yourself with one of those too, because that’s a must-do.

Beautiful Oxford Town in England

Bath is not only about relaxing activities but also about historical architecture. Well-known for its golden stone buildings, Bath nestles the extraordinary Royal Crescent - an impressive row of 30 terraced houses built in the 18th-century Georgian architecture style. That’s not everything! While in the town, pop into the historical Bath Abbey, which dates back to the 7th-century. Are you ready to fall in love with a spectacular culture and healing experiences there?

TIP: If you are interested in the famous Roman baths, you need to pre-book your tickets. To save money, consider planning your visit during a weekday.

4. The Cotswolds

For the English village fans, we suggest not to miss a chance to visit the Cotswolds. This area is spotted with plenty of authentic villages that perfectly reflect the old English village life and tranquility. Definitely, the top-visit town in this region is its capital, Cirencester pronounced as Siren-sester. Not the crowded city will make every visitor happy; the cozy colorful streets are full of charming boutiques and cafes, plus, there is the stunning Church of St John the Baptist. Another lovely town is Tetbury, with its royal backing; it is a place of the home base of Prince Charles! Why not go there and explore the streets lined with old houses and shops?

Beautiful Oxford Town in England

While making a list of must-see places in England, don't forget to add Chipping Campden. Indeed, this small town might look not worth visiting from the first sight, but those who adore well-preserved towns will appreciate this chance. It is notable for its 17th-century market hall and elegant High Street. And if you would like to make your travel list even more diverse, consider including one of the busiest villages in Cotswolds, called Broadway.

The vivid hub is a famous getaway destination because it provides everything you need for a beautiful holiday: scenic street, charming antique shops, and welcoming restaurants. We won't lie, choosing charming villages to visit in the Cotswolds can be a real challenge. Because there are so many and all of them are unique! Hence, start exploring the four majestic ones and you won’t be disappointed.

Top Villages in the Cotswolds, England:

  • Blockley;
  • Lower Slaughter;
  • Kingham;
  • Mickleton;
  • Bibury;
  • Bourton-on-the-Water;
  • Bredon;
  • Ashton-under-Hill;
  • Naunton;
  • Castle Combe.

5. Lake District

The second England destination for village enthusiasts is the Lake District region known for its picturesque landscapes. Eager explorers will be pleasantly surprised to discover lakes and green valleys spotted with the charming towns. These towns boast ancient cobblestone streets, astonishing medieval churches, and magnificent marketplaces waiting to be uncovered. Get lost in the narrow streets of Ambleside village, lined with old farm buildings, Victorian stone houses, pubs, and tea rooms. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit the St. Mary’s church, built in the Gothic Revival style. In addition to this lovely town, take a look at Hawkshead village that houses dozens of historical buildings. Find out what’s unique about the grammar school of poet William Wordsworth and impressive works in the Beatrix Potter Gallery.

Beautiful Oxford Town in England

Unquestionably, visiting two towns is not enough to feel the real atmosphere of the Lake District. Immerse yourself to the beauty of Keswick, the inspiration source for numerous artists. Like an excellent location of a picturesque lakeside wouldn’t be enough, this town is also situated between Skiddaw and Derwentwater mountains. Why not explore museums, galleries, and pubs surrounded by romantic views? If you still feel thirsty for more adventure, continue your journey to Grasmere, as the poet Wordsworth described “the loveliest spot that man had ever found.” Indeed, the beautiful village is one of the most-visited in the region. With its magnificent scenery and meticulously preserved cottages, it attracts travelers from around the world.

Did you know?
The popular Sticky Toffee Pudding dessert was invented in this region. Make sure to try it once you're here!

Stonehenge & Avebury

The majestic Stonehenge is the most famous cromlech in the world, located near the city of Amesbury in England. There are many mysteries around the ancient structure, particularly about who, when, and for what it was created. The name of Stonehenge is another mystery that has not been fully solved, over which disputes are being conducted to this day. The modern name in English "Stonehenge" means "stone circle," but the exact translation of the Old English word "Stanhengues" is in doubt, previously – "hanging stones".

Stonehenge

The mysterious past of Stonehenge has given rise to various hypotheses about the purpose of this ancient megalith. The opinions of scientists differ, and today there are three main versions of the appointment: a burial mound, an ancient primitive temple, and even an astronomical observatory – Stonehenge is oriented with minor errors according to the various stages of the movement of the Sun and Moon. And legends say that Stonehenge, the world's eighth wonder, was created by the magic of the famous wizard Merlin.

The Avebury megalithic complex is the elder, though less well—known brother of the famous Stonehenge: it is more than 5,000 years old. It surpasses Stonehenge in size: inside a huge stone ring with a diameter of 350 m, the village of the same name fits. Scientists associate Avebury buildings with the culture of bell-shaped cups. For a long time, they were not as famous as Stonehenge. But after Tolkien's admirers saw in them the prototype described in The Lord of the Rings, a small village in Wiltshire, in the UK, had no end of tourists.

Avebury

A mysterious circle of stones, a vast prehistoric mound, and burials that date back to the 4th century BC – attract the attention of many of them. In addition to the complex, Avebury is interesting with a church of the X century and an old estate, where interiors of different eras have been preserved. Are you ready to reveal the mystery of both these monuments? Then choose tours to Stonehenge & Avebury!

Party on, dudes!
Every year on the summer solstice, a festival is held near Stonehenge, in which pagans and descendants of druids (as they call themselves) take part.

St. Ives

The city of St. Ives is located in the southwest of England in the county of Cornwall. It is located on the shore of St. Ives Bay, part of the northern coast of the Cornish Peninsula. St. Ives is a seaside resort, one of the best in the country. The time of the settlement is unknown. However, according to legend, it is named after the Christian Saint Eve of Korneville. In the 5th century, she arrived in these parts from Ireland to carry the light of faith but was martyred. She is the patron saint of St. Ives, the city that bears her name. It is also known that the Irish preachers Saint Hermok and Saint Breaga, also revered in Cornwall, landed here in the 6th century.

StIves

The city is suitable for a respectable seaside holiday. Tourist fishing and yachting are well developed. St Ives has several sandy beaches surrounded by rocky shores. Not only the city's name reminds of the patron saint, but also the parish church of St. Eve (15th century). It is built in the Devonian style, and has a 24-meter tower and an organ from 1831. There are other churches in St. Ives: the chapels of St. Leonard and Nicholas, the Catholic Church of the Sacred Heart (1909), and two Methodist churches of the 19th century.

The city of art
People of art have chosen the town since the 1920s. The beginning was laid by Bernard Leach, who founded a ceramic workshop in St. Ives. Subsequently, many sculptors and artists settled here, creating the "St. Ives school."

Brighton

Brighton is the busiest seaside resort in England, located on the English Channel coast. This is a city where provincial simplicity harmoniously combines with the developed infrastructure of a respectable European resort. Wide pebble beaches, fresh sea breeze, and lush greenery attract lovers of family holidays and sea entertainment to Brighton. Here it is easy to combine a beach holiday and acquaintance with local attractions, night discos on the shores of the English Channel, and quiet walks in beautiful parks. I want to come to Brighton again and again, each time discovering new unique places in this charming resort.

StIves

Central parts of the city are home to the city's cultural life. The area is home to many museums, galleries, hotels, nightclubs, shops, and restaurants.

Popular tourist spots include the following:

  • Brunswick. A part of the city that will interest connoisseurs of history. Here you can see magnificent mansions.
  • Queen's Park. The most suitable area for a relaxing holiday. It is located near a beautiful park – a favorite place for walking citizens.
  • West Hill. In this part of the city, you can see old England with its cute houses and picturesque gardens.

Today, Brighton is the most popular seaside resort of Londoners. In this city, tourists from all over the world come to plunge into the atmosphere of relaxation and get acquainted with local attractions.

Gastronomic delight
Experience the cuisine of the city. Simple yet delicious dishes are prepared using quality ingredients. Among the menu items are Fish and Chips or Shepherd's pie. Desserts like Sherry Trifle and Chocolate Fudge Cake will tempt those with a sweet tooth.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford emerged at the end of the 12th century as a small settlement on the lands of the Bishop of Worcester. It got its name from a combination of two Old English words, "strǣt" ("street") and "ford" ("ford"). In 1196, King Richard I granted the townspeople the right to hold weekly fairs. Since the middle of the 19th century, and for almost a century, the Flower dynasty dominated the city. She achieved her prosperity and power with the help of a brewery. Its founder was one of the representatives of a noble family - Edward Fordham Flower. In 1832, he opened his own, then still modest, production of foam drink.

For a long period, the Flowers led the city. Representatives of 4 generations of a noble family gradually held the post of mayor of Stratford. At that time, their brewery was considered one of the largest in the country. When Charles Edward Flower held the post of mayor, the Royal Shakespeare Theater was built. Subsequently, his descendant Archibald also contributed to the development and prosperity of the city when he took the post of mayor. On his initiative, a large-scale theater reconstruction was carried out after the fire of 1926.

The English writer Maria Corelli spent a lot of effort and money on improving the city. She spent her last years in Stratford. Her efforts restored the historical appearance of the town of Shakespeare's time. The Corelli House now houses the Shakespeare Institute. Today, Stratford is a cultural city with a great history, attracting figure skaters, artists, and festival organizers.

StIves

What happened in 1769?
In 1769, actor David Garrick planned to hold a festival in the city dedicated to the famous playwright. He even built a wooden building. But the structure stood only for a while, because during a prolonged rain, the structure was washed away by a downpour. At the beginning of the 19th century, a modest-sized theater was built near Shakespeare's mansion. It was briefly used for its intended purpose and was abandoned in 1860.

All in all, choosing the places to visit besides London can be challenging, but it’s definitely a good idea that lets you explore the most beautiful cities in England. Other historical ancient towns and villages give you a taste of the real country life and its customs. But if you wish to add more destinations or have questions do not hesitate to contact our travel experts who will be delighted to help create your itinerary!