Top 10 Must-Visit Places in England 🇬🇧

England is a richly historic country, and one that is packed with fascinating destinations. It’s a great place to explore, and whether you’re a resident or tourist, the country retains a boundless capacity to surprise, charm, and excite. From the mystery of ancient Stonehenge to the modern architecture along the Thames River, England has a wide range of appeal to visitors from around the world. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in England:

10. Chester 🏛️

Located in Northwest England just on the Welsh border, Chester is a charming city with Roman origins. Its biggest attraction might just be the Chester Cathedral, a stunning structure that was one of the few to survive under Henry VIII because it was simply too beautiful to tear down.

• Roman landmarks: Explore ancient walls and the ruins of an enormous amphitheater.
• Victorian garden: Perfect for picnics, just across the street from the Roman amphitheater.

9. Brighton 🌊

Brighton, on the Sussex coast, has been a popular beach resort since the mid-19th century. Much of its popularity is due to its proximity to London, making it popular with day-trippers. The beachfront is lined with graceful old Victorian homes that today provide tourist accommodations.

• Palace Pier: Famous pier with rides, attractions, and vendors selling everything from ice cream cones to fish and chips.
• Traditional English gardens: A must-see for those who appreciate floral beauty.

8. Lake District 🏞️

Located in northwest England in the county of Cumbria, the Lake District is the largest National Park in the country. The main attraction is the lakes and mountains carved by glacial erosion, providing dramatic and inspiring scenery. It is England’s premier destination for hiking and climbing.

• William Wordsworth: Contemplate the works of this famous 19th-century poet.
• Steam train: Enjoy a scenic ride through captivating landscapes.

7. Cambridge 🎓

The main attraction in the city of Cambridge is undoubtedly the University of Cambridge, a campus with hundreds of years of history. The university is made up of several colleges, some of the most famous of which include King’s College, Queen’s College, and Trinity College.

• The Backs: A beautiful park located on the banks of the river, perfect for strolling.
• Campus architecture: Awe-inspiring buildings and historic halls.

6. Jurassic Coast 🦖

Fossil hunters may want to make a beeline for the Jurassic Coast, a section in southern England that runs roughly from Bournemouth to Exmouth. The rocks date back 185 million years, a relic of when the continents were crunching up against each other and then drifting apart.

• Museums: Explain regional history and significance.
• Charming towns: Quaint towns along the way offer delightful stops.

5. Oxford 📚

Just like Cambridge, Oxford is renowned for its university. Established in the 12th century, Oxford University is the oldest English-speaking campus in the world. If you only get the chance to see one building in Oxford, make it the breathtaking Bodleian Library, established in 1601 and home to over 11 million volumes.

• Film buffs: The library has served as the backdrop for countless movies, including several from the Harry Potter series.

4. Stonehenge 🪨

Set along the Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England, Stonehenge is easily one of the most recognized ancient ruins in the world. Dating back over 5,000 years, these curious stone rings are some of the oldest stone structures on the planet.

• Religious rituals: One theory suggests Stonehenge was used for religious practices.
• Celestial monitoring: Another theory suggests it was used to monitor the movements of the sun and moon.

3. Bath 🛁

Bath was founded by the Romans in 60 AD, who built baths here because of the hot springs. The city reached its popularity peak in the Georgian years when the wealthy flocked here for the spas. Besides being famous for its waters, Bath is also an excellent example of Georgian architecture.

• Cultural scene: The city offers live theater and fine dining.
• Proximity to Stonehenge: Makes a good base for visiting the monolithic Stonehenge.

2. York 🏰

The city of York is a truly ancient destination, boasting an impressive collection of architectural remains from Roman, medieval, and even Viking times. Plenty of exciting sights compete for visitors’ attention as they stroll along the city’s cobblestone streets.

• York Minster: A commanding stone cathedral filled with remarkable works of art.
• Clifford’s Tower: Built by William the Conqueror and rebuilt by Henry III, it offers panoramic views around the city.

1. London 🇬🇧

English history buffs will have a field day in London. This city on the Thames is chock full of palaces, from Buckingham Palace to Hampton Court Palace. More a prison than a palace, the Tower of London is home to the crown jewels.

• Shopping: From Knightsbridge’s magnificent food halls at Harrods to Carnaby Street’s unique shops.
• The Tube: Get around London quickly and efficiently by riding the famous Tube.