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Lady’s 25 Best Cities in England

Today I want to share my guide to the best cities in England with you. From the capital to the smaller urban centers, they’re some of the top places to visit in the UK .

Best Cities in England

These English cities have all won my heart with their beauty, history, or unique charm. From stunning cathedrals to secret passageways, universities to beaches, every one of the places on this list has something special about it.

I’ve visited all of these cities, so can personally attest to how much they have going for them. If you get a chance to go, I hope you’ll agree.

I couldn’t write about the best cities in England without starting with London . The UK capital is one of the most exciting and diverse cities in the world.

With a great mix of historic and contemporary, big attractions and secret places , London has something for everyone. Add to that great restaurants, markets, and nightlife, and it’s hard to beat.

When it comes to history and aesthetics, Chester is one of the best cities in England. With Roman walls, medieval churches, and a half-timbered high street, every inch of Chester is picture pretty.

Add to that charming side streets, colorful doors, and an amazing cathedral, and Chester is one of the most beautiful places in England .

Next on my list of the best cities in England is Bath . With beautiful Georgian architecture and golden Cotswold stone buildings, it’s one of the prettiest places in the UK.

The city also has ancient Roman baths, Jane Austen sites , and great independent shops and restaurants. Bath is hard to beat when it comes to English cities.

4. Cambridge

As far as university cities go, Cambridge tops my list. The heritage buildings and bucolic river scenery make Cambridge one of the best cities in England.

I can’t get enough of the Gothic chapel interiors, riverside pubs, and colleges in Cambridge. Being here is like stepping into a painting.

Up north, Durham is another university city that deserves a place on my list of the best cities in England.

Durham is worth a trip for its cobblestone streets, impressive cathedral, and historic castle. Rich in history, the side streets around the university are great places to get a glimpse into Britain’s past.

Back down south, Oxford is another university city in England that deserves a place on my list. The colleges in Oxford have gorgeous heritage architecture and the city is rife with historic pubs, museums, and markets.

Oxford is famous for its Harry Potter and Alice in Wonderland connections, too. It’s fun to visit and discover the filming locations from the former and the places that inspired the latter.

7. Canterbury

When it comes to cathedral cities, Canterbury is hard to beat. It’s one of the best cities in England for its mix of religious importance and charming atmosphere.

Canterbury Cathedral is one of the oldest and most important Christian buildings in England, and has layers of history and beauty to discover.

Canterbury also has an abundance of historic streets with chocolate-box atmosphere. There are narrow lanes with shops dotted throughout the city center, and they’re worth taking the time to explore.

8. Winchester

Speaking of cathedral cities, Winchester is another of my favorites. Winchester Cathedral is not only stunning to see, but also the burial place of Jane Austen.

But it’s not just the cathedral in Winchester. This city in Hampshire is home to a peaceful river walk, secret gardens, and heritage architecture galore.

The Round Table of King Arthur fame is here, as are a stunning medieval almshouse and the haunting ruins of an old bishop’s palace.

Up north, York is another city with an important cathedral. But there’s a lot more this place than York Minster. It’s one of the best cities in England for its old-world charm.

From the medieval city walls to the passages and Snickelways, there’s something beautiful around every corner in York.

Add to that a river, a lot of great shops, and a castle, and York is a real treat. The annual York Christmas markets are worth a special trip, too.

10. Newcastle

Not far from York, Newcastle is another of the best cities in England. From Grey Street, which was once voted the finest street in Britain by BBC Radio 4 listeners, to contemporary art museums like BALTIC, Newcastle has a good mix of historic and contemporary.

And that’s to say nothing of the bridges, which span both the River Tyne and the centuries. Then come Newcastle’s pubs, many of which have stunning historic interiors and lively atmospheres. The nightlife is legendary, too.

11. Birmingham

In the Midlands, Birmingham has everything from centuries-old pubs to colorful creative districts.

Its contemporary library gets my inner architecture (and book) lover excited every time, and I love the pre-Raphaelite masterpieces in the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.

The city first won me over when I visited for the famous Birmingham Christmas markets . Since then, it’s lured me back to see its beautiful historic buildings, shopping arcades, canals, and streets.

12. Brighton

On the south coast in East Sussex, Brighton is one of the best cities in England when it comes to seaside appeal.

With its pebble shoreline and pleasure pier, it’s the quintessential British beach city. But there’s more than just sun and fun here (and this being England, “sun” can be a relative term).

The Royal Pavilion is a whimsical 18th-century pleasure palace with opulent interiors, and the shops in The Lanes and North Laine are great for retail therapy. Brighton’s nightlife scene is one of the best in the UK, too.

Out in Somerset, Wells often gets overlooked, but this tiny gem deserves a place on my list of the best cities in England. This is not least because Wells is home to a huge cathedral and lots of charming streets.

Wandering along the high street in Wells and taking in the little lanes is fun. Vicars’ Close is one of the most beautiful streets in England, what with its stunning rows of original 14th-century residential buildings.

Back up north in Yorkshire, Leeds is another of the most exciting cities in England. From Victorian shopping arcades like the County Arcade to art galleries and museums like the Henry Moore Institute, there’s a lot to see and do here.

I could spend ages exploring the streets, ducking down alleys, and taking in the cultural treasures at the Leeds Art Gallery. But this city is really known for its shopping, and institutions like Harvey Nichols attest to it.

15. Norwich

Over in Norfolk, Norwich is one of the best cities in England for its mix of cathedral, market square, hilltop castle, and pretty streets. They all combine to make it easy on the eyes and alluring to the camera.

Norwich Cathedral is the most complete Norman cathedral in England and one of the best examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe.

Elm Hill is replete with Tudor buildings, and Norwich Market is one of the oldest and largest outdoor markets in Britain. Add to that bright pink and orange houses, and there’s a lot to love about this city.

16. Nottingham

When it comes to legendary places, Nottingham is one of my favorite cities in Britain. From castles to pubs, old English streets to secret lanes, Nottingham has everything I look for in one urban center.

With the Robin Hood legend, great shopping, and one of the oldest pubs in England—you have to see the Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem— it’s hard to find a more exciting city to discover in England.

17. Leicester

Nobody ever believes me when I say Leicester is one of the best cities in England. But this is one of the most underrated cities in Britain , and my first visit impressed me so much that I went back for a second.

Leicester has ancient Roman ruins, a 900-year-old cathedral built on the site of a Roman temple, and a Richard III museum that follows the miraculous story of the discovery of the king’s remains.

As if that’s not enough, it has a museum with a world-class Arts and Crafts Movement collection and a city center bursting with beautiful historic buildings. It’s worth a visit.

18. Liverpool

Liverpool is another underrated city that deserves a special trip. A historic maritime center where the River Mersey meets the Irish Sea, Liverpool has reinvented itself in recent years.

The home of The Beatles, it’s one of the best cities in England for its cultural heritage and attractions. It has great museums like Tate Liverpool, which sits in the historic-meets-contemporary Albert Dock area.

Bars like The Cavern Club, the birthplace of The Beatles, are great for live music, too.

19. Manchester

Not far from Liverpool, Manchester is another of the best cities in England. There are great restaurants, shops, and nightlife venues in Manchester, and beautiful streets to explore.

The Castlefield neighborhood’s 18th-century canal system is a great place to take in Manchester’s textile history.

The Salford Quays dockyards are home to the Daniel Libeskind-designed Imperial War Museum North and The Lowry arts center, too.

20. Bristol

Back down south, Bristol is one of the best cities in England for its independent spirit and riverside attractions.

The Harbourside area is home to the contemporary M Shed museum, which explores the city’s social and industrial heritage.

Converted 19th-century waterfront warehouses shelter lively restaurants, shops, and art galleries, and Clifton is rife with Georgian townhouses, beautiful crescents, and the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Back to cathedral cities , under-the-radar Ely is one of my favorite cities in England for its magnificent cathedral, bucolic riverfront, and rich history.

Ely Cathedral traces its origins back to 672. Its historic interiors are stunning, and its exterior can be seen from all over the surrounding area in Cambridgeshire.

Outside the cathedral, Ely is brimming with pretty streets, great shops, and bustling markets.

Out in Devon, Exeter is another cathedral number that deserves a place on my list of the best cities in England. Exeter Cathedral dates back nearly 1,000 years and is one of the oldest and most beautiful of its kind in the UK.

Beyond the cathedral, Exeter is home to ancient Roman walls, pretty Georgian streets, a castle, and a system of vaulted medieval subterranean passageways visitors can explore.

23. St Albans

So close to London it’s practically in walking distance, St Albans is one of the best cities in England for its ancient Roman history and historic cathedral.

St Albans has an impressive array of Roman ruins, from a wall to a theater. The Verulamium Museum is a great place to explore the remains of the ancient Roman town in Verulamium Park, too.

There are a lot of other things to do in St Albans , too. The city has bustling street markets and farmers’ markets. Timing a day trip to coincide with them is a good way to take in the local scene.

24. Lincoln

Also home to a stunning cathedral, Lincoln is replete with chocolate-box streets, a Norman castle, and lots of shops and cafes.

This is one of the best cities in England for history lovers. From streets dripping with heritage details to a medieval cathedral and a castle with an original 1215 Magna Carta, Lincoln has a lot to take in.

25. City of London

I’ll end my list of the best cities in England where I started. I’ve always loved the UK capital’s history, and the fact that the historic heart of London is its own city has always fascinated me.

The City of London is not only home to big London landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral, but also little passageways and historic pubs with warrens of wood-paneled rooms. It offers a great mix of everything I love about the city I call home.

Cities in England

My list could go on, but I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about these cities and that you get a chance to visit them all someday. They’re really some of the best cities in England. And the world, for that matter.

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6 Comments on Lady’s 25 Best Cities in England

Hoping to visit England, Wales and Scotland in the next couple of years, so this information is excellent. Thank you.

You’re welcome!

Definitely some of the best cities of England to travel to. But Oxford is my favorite. Which of these cities is your favorite?

I couldn’t possibly choose! There are so many great cities in England.

I´m from Brazil, and i´m dreamming with the idea to finally know England. I hope use this post to guide me when it happens. Thank you for sharing all this experiences. 🙂

You’re welcome! I’m so glad to hear that.

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15 Absolute Best Cities to Visit in the UK (+Map & Travel Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

The United Kingdom’s rich and vibrant culture make its cities among the most fascinating to visit in the world. Whether you’re looking for stunning architecture, world-class museums, or the cool vibe of contemporary art and music, you’ll find it all in the best UK cities.

However, with so many great cities throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (the four countries of the UK) it can be difficult to decide which ones to visit in a limited amount of time.

So in this guide, we list the very best cities to visit in the UK that are worth your time the most . For each city, we include the main attractions that you simply must see. We also listed a few extras that are well worth visiting if you have enough time. For each town, we also indicate how much time you need for a visit.

Good to know: The great thing about visiting the UK is its small size and good transport links. This makes it quite easy to travel from one part of the country to another. Furthermore, quite a few of these cities can also be visited with organized tours from London (or other nearby towns). So if you plan well, you can visit several of these UK towns in one trip.

To help you plan your trip and see several of the nicest cities and towns in Great Britain, we asked our writer Christine, a UK local, to share the best places and tips for your visit. We also created a map indicating each town. That way, you have a better idea of where everything is and can plan your trip accordingly. Take a look!

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

These are the most beautiful cities in the UK that are worth a visit the most:

London really has to be number one on any list of the best places in the UK! And there are so many reasons to visit the nation’s capital. Located on the banks of the River Thames, London is the country’s financial center, the seat of the Government of the United Kingdom, and home to the Royal Family.

All of this is reflected in its magnificent and historic architecture and a huge variety of things to see and do.

The diversity of London’s population is evident in its wonderful food scene. From traditional British food in local pubs, the finest cuisine in world-famous restaurants, to the ethnic street food in its many markets, London has it all. London also offers some of the very best shopping in the world. You’ll find designer stores, vintage boutiques, eclectic craft fairs, and quirky markets all over the city.

If you want to escape the bustling streets, museums, and galleries, London has some very beautiful and tranquil green spaces too. Don’t miss the scenic Hyde Park! If you have more time, visit the lesser-known Kew Gardens, with its stunning collection of tropical flora and fauna. London is truly a city that offers something for everyone.

Must see: The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace (don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ), Westminster (including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament), Tower Bridge, the London Eye , the British Museum, St Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square (home to Nelson’s Column), and Piccadilly Circus. Thames Cruise is also a must.

Nice to see: Greenwich , Hyde Park, Covent Garden, Kew Gardens, Borough Market, Camden Town & Camden Lock Market , National Gallery, Harrods, and Oxford Street. If you are visiting London with kids , don’t miss Madame Tussauds , the Natural History Museum, Leicester Square stores, and the Royal Mews. Also, don’t miss at least some of the best views in London !

How much time do you need. You can quickly see the major sites with just one day in London . However, if you want to be able to visit a few places inside and get a good feeling of the city you really need two days in London . To fully appreciate all of London’s major sights, visit a few of them inside, and check out a few different neighborhoods, you will need at least 3 to 4 days.

If you want to experience the diversity of attractions across the city, discover some of London’s hidden gems , or take a day tour to Windsor Castle or a day trip to other popular places near London , you can easily spend a week or even more.

Where to stay: Best areas to stay in London for first time .

Travel tips: Please see London travel tips for more information for planning your trip.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in London (Must-See!)

2. Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh is truly a tale of two cities! It has a New Town – packed with modern shops and trendy eateries – on one side, and a historic Old Town on the other.

The imposing Edinburgh Castle – one of Europe’s oldest fortified places – overlooks the entire city. Surrounding it are rolling green hills which often draw a comparison with Rome. Indeed Italy’s capital, like Edinburgh, was said to have been built on seven hills. Its neoclassical architecture, along with its reputation for philosophy and learning, have earned Edinburgh the nickname of the ‘Athens of the North’.

Edinburgh has a rich history, awesome views, incredible green spaces, and several world-class museums and galleries. In contrast, it also has an intriguingly dark past that you can learn more about by exploring its creepy kirkyards (churchyards) and a fascinating underground street that shows you just what life used to be like in the city.

Scotland’s capital is also known for its many festivals, including the world-famous Hogmanay at New Year.

Must see: Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat (for the views), the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, National Museum of Scotland, and Royal Yacht Britannia.

Nice to see: Royal Botanic Gardens, St Giles’ Cathedral, Princes Street Gardens, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions (nice views of the city), Scottish National Gallery, The Real Mary King’s Close.

How much time do you need. Given the city’s relatively small size, it’s possible to see the main sights of Edinburgh in 1 day , but it would be quite a rush. We recommend 2-3 days to take in and fully appreciate everything the city has to offer.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

3. Cambridge

Cambridge is probably best known for its University (the world’s 4th oldest surviving university). Which is home to more winners of the Nobel prize than any other university in the UK.

Cambridge is also a beautiful town, with lots of well-preserved historic buildings that are mostly centered around its 31 (!) colleges. Cambridge has some world-famous Alumni too. 14 British Prime Ministers studied here, world-famous physicist Stephen Hawking, and many others who have made a real impact on the world.

A must-do in Cambridge is taking a punt tour along the beautiful River Cam. Punt is a traditional flat bottomed boat and a very typical thing to do here. The river runs through the heart of the city offering great views of the ancient architecture of the city.

Being a student town, this medieval city still has a very modern vibe too. So there’s plenty of music, festivals, and a strong performing arts scene. There are several art galleries exhibiting everything from the classics to contemporary works. And you’ll find some lovely, quirky shops to buy souvenirs.

Must see: King’s College Chapel, Queen’s College and the Mathematical Bridge (built without nails), Trinity College (and other collages if you have more time), Fitzwilliam Museum, Great St Mary’s Church (climb to the top of the tower for incredible city views), the River Cam and punting tours .

Nice to see: The Botanic Garden, Angelsey Abbey, Wren Library (the Trinity College Library where you can see Newton’s “Principia Mathematica”; it’s only open between noon and 2 pm on weekdays, and Saturday morning), the Round Church, the Bridge of Sighs, The Backs (behind the colleges).

How much time do you need. You can see much of Cambridge within one full day, and it’s also possible to visit with a tour from the capital . But to give yourself time to browse the main museum and to go punting along the River Cam, it’s worth planning two days for your visit.

Of all the cities in the UK, the wonderful, walled city of York boasts the most attractions per square mile. Although it has all the modern shops and amenities you’d expect from a major UK city, the main appeal of York is in fascinating history.

As you wander the cobbled, medieval streets – some with beautifully preserved buildings from the 14th and 15th centuries – you can also see hints of its Roman roots and signs of Viking influence.

Among its many attractions, York has 30 museums, the UK’s best racecourse, and festivals on an almost monthly basis.

The city’s Cathedral – York Minster – is one of the largest in Europe. You can enjoy some incredible views of the city from the top. You can also view the city from the water by taking a boat trip along River Ouse or on Foss River. Another fun thing to do is learn about the history of chocolate-making at the place where the famous UK confectioners Terry’s and Rowntree were founded.

Must see: York Minster (formally known as the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter in York), the 14th century City Walls (you can walk along the top), National Railway Museum, the Shambles (one of the world’s best-preserved medieval streets), views along the River Ouse and river cruises .

Nice to see: York Maze, York Castle Museum, Castle Howard, York’s Chocolate Story, Clifford’s Tower (great views), York Racecourse.

How much time do you need. You can see the highlights of York in a day, but we recommend 2 full days to see things at a more leisurely pace. If you want to also explore the Yorkshire region, plan a few days extra. See the best suggestions for places to see via the link below.

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from York

Whilst it may have an interesting history and plenty of period architecture to admire, Glasgow is hip and happening. So much so that it is sometimes referred to as ‘Scotland’s city of cool!’.

A mecca for creativity, Glasgow has a strong art scene. You’ll find unique and original products sold everywhere from the city center to its cobbled lanes. You’ll also see impressive murals on walls throughout the city, depicting various figures who have played a large part in Glasgow’s culture.

There are several excellent museums, an architecturally stunning Cathedral, and a full-size sailing ship to explore. Many of Glasgow’s attractions are free to visit, making a visit here much more affordable than in many other UK cities.

There are also some beautiful green spaces throughout Glasgow to sit and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find that locals are more than happy to share stories with you of their beloved home. In fact, Time Out magazine once named Glasgow as ‘first for friendliness’. The warmth it extends to its visitors is the reason that Glasgow remains one of the UK’s most popular destinations.

Must see: Glasgow Cathedral and the adjacent Necropolis, Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery, Riverside Museum, and The Tall Ship.

Nice to see: George Square, Gallery of Modern Art, Scotland Street School Museum, Botanic Gardens, Celtic Park Stadium , the Science Museum, University of Glasgow, Hunterian Art Gallery & Museum.

How much time do you need. Glasgow is relatively compact and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. So you can see the very best of Glasgow in a day (see below for more information). But because there is so much to see and do in the city, we recommend planning 2-3 days here. If you have a day to spare, you can also make some really nice day trips to Loch Ness and see some of the Scottish Highlands.

READ ALSO: How to See the Best of Glasgow in One Day

Located in the county of Somerset in south-west England, Bath is famous for its Roman ruins. The city is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bath grew around its ancient Roman baths. Nowadays, you can still experience bathing in Britain’s only natural thermal hot springs at the modern Thermae Bath Spa.

In addition to museums and galleries, there is a great deal of beautiful architecture to enjoy in the city. From the individual honey-colored Georgian buildings to the neo-Classical style of many of its public buildings, Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK!

Bath’s iconic sights, such as the Circus and the Royal Cresent, have become world-famous thanks to TV and film. Some of Jane Austen’s works discussing city life were based on the five years she spent here. Much of the architecture is still just as she described it. A visit to Bath truly feels like taking a step back into history.

Must see: The Roman Baths, Bath Abbey (take the Tower Tour and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city), Royal Crescent park, The Circus, Pulteney Bridge.

Nice to see: River cruises , Thermae Bath Spa, the Jane Austen Centre , No. 1 Royal Crescent (museum), Fashion Museum, Royal Victoria Park, The Museum of Bath Architecture.

How much time do you need . It is possible to see all the main sights of Bath in half a day to a day. This makes Bath one of the most popular day trips from London , often in combination with Stonehenge and Windsor Castle . However, a lot of the city’s charm is to be found in the evening. So if you have the time, stay a little longer and include an overnight stay in your visit.

Belfast is Northern Ireland’s capital and largest city, but it is still relatively small compared to the other capitals. Nevertheless, there is a lot to see and do here. The close proximity of all its attractions makes it easy to see Belfast’s main sights in a short amount of time.

The city where the Titanic was built, Belfast has several excellent museums that look back over its shipbuilding past. You’ll also find museums celebrating its connection to the linen industry. And – more recently – Belfast’s time of political upheaval (known as The Troubles).

Alternatively, you can head to the lively Cathedral quarter with its lovely Victorian architecture and cobbled streets. It’s a popular place with an ever-developing pub and restaurant scene.

Belfast’s historic market gives you the opportunity to buy some authentic arts, crafts, and souvenirs whilst enjoying some stirring live music. Throughout the city, you can see some incredible street art, with hundreds of murals depicting all sorts of key moments in Belfast’s past.

Must see: Titanic Belfast , St George’s Market (every Friday/Saturday/Sunday), Belfast City Hall, Crumlin Road Gaol, Ulster Museum.

Nice to see: Stormont (the home of Northern Ireland’s Parliament), Queens University, Botanic Gardens, C.S Lewis Square, St. Anne’s Cathedral, Cave Hill Country Park (for the excellent views).

How much time do you need. We recommend planning 2 days in order to see all of Belfast’s main attractions. In addition, you can take a day tour to Giant’s Causeway , which is not to be missed when visiting here!

8. Liverpool

Liverpool’s main claim to fame is as the birthplace of the Beatles. If you’re a fan, it’s a great place to visit the city where the band started and drew their inspiration. But there’s so much more to this city that makes it a fantastic place for anyone!

Liverpool is located on the River Mersey. One of the nicest things to do is walk around the docks, which are teeming with cool boutiques, fantastic eateries, and lively bars. The streets of the modern city center are filled with shoppers and street entertainers. But there is lots of history and culture to explore too, with more museums and galleries than you’ll find anywhere else outside London.

Liverpool really comes alive at night! So make sure to stay the night. Dine at one of the many fine restaurants, ending the evening with live music at the iconic Cavern Club. This is the venue at which the Beatles performed nearly 300 times.

READ ALSO: The Beatles in Liverpool (Best Places to See)

Must see: The Cavern Club, the Beatles Story , the Royal Albert Dock, World Museum, Liverpool Cathedral, Mersey River Cruises .

Nice to see: Tate Liverpool, Anfield Stadium , Sefton Park, Western Approaches WWII Museum , Liverpool Library, British Music Experience , Museum of Liverpool, Strawberry Field , and the views from Royal Liver Building 360 .

How much time do you need. You will need 1-2 days to see Liverpool’s main sights. If you are a Beatles fan and want to be sure to see all the Beatles-related exhibitions and tours, then you may even need 3 days in the city.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & How to visit Liverpool from London (travel info & 1-day itinerary)

Oxford is best known for its university which was established in the 12th century. It’s one of the oldest and most famous universities in the world, and so many of the city’s attractions are related to it.

There are 38 separate college buildings and their architecture is incredible! You should definitely see the Christ Church with its impressive Hall (Harry Potter fans will instantly recognize it!) and Cathedral. The gardens of this cathedral are said to have inspired Lewis Carroll’s ‘Alice in Wonderland’.

This beautiful English city was also used as a filming location for some scenes in the Harry Potter movies. While you can probably spot a few of them on your own, fans should really consider a walking tour of the filming locations .

Oxford also has a few interesting museums, a nice riverside ( sightseeing cruises are available), and even its own ‘Bridge of Sighs’, Hertford Bridge. It connects two parts of Hertford College allowing students and professors to quicker travel between different parts of the university.

Must see: Oxford University with the Bodleian Library and some of the oldest colleges (Christ Church College, All Souls College, Magdalen College, Keble College), Radcliffe Camera, Ashmolean Museum, and Hertford Bridge.

Nice to see: Oxford University Museum of Natural History, University Church, Sheldonian Theater, Oxford Castle and Prison, The Pett Rivers Museum. Boat trips are also nice to do, especially in the warmest months.

How much time do you need. You can see many of the main landmarks in Oxford in half a day to a day. With two days, you should be able to cover most of the best attractions in Oxford.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Tips for Traveling to Europe

10. Cardiff

The Welsh capital, Cardiff is quite small in size. It only takes about 15 minutes to cycle from one side to the other. But it has a lot to offer its visitors! With a 2000-year-old castle and more green space per capita than any other UK city, it offers lots of opportunities for scenic strolls. Make sure to explore the banks of the River Taff which runs through its beautiful Bute Park.

Just outside the city center is Cardiff Bay. Here, you can visit the seat of the Welsh Government or enjoy everything from cultural attractions to boat trips. Cardiff is a quirky, vibrant, and creative city with numerous music and arts venues and an up and coming culinary scene.

Cardiff is also known to sports fans for its world-famous stadium, the home of Welsh rugby, and the venue for Britain’s Speedway Grand Prix. You can enjoy a meal and a drink at a sports bar and restaurant Elevens Bar And Grill, which is owned by professional footballer Gareth Bale.

Must see: Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Bay, Principality Stadium, St Fagans National Museum of History, National Museum, Wales Millenium Centre.

Nice to see: Bute Park, Roath Park, Castell Coch, Cardiff International White Water Centre, the Senedd (the main building for the National Assembly of Wales), Spillers Records (the oldest record shop in the world). Doctor Who tours (popular TV series filming locations) are also very popular.

How much time do you need. Because of Cardiff’s compact size, you can see the best of its attractions in 1-2 days. But there is much worth exploring on its outskirts. So you might want to give yourself an extra day to venture outside the city center.

11. Nottingham

Nottingham is another really nice city that’s worth your time when touring the UK! This city’s imposing, wide streets and scenic parks have earned it the nickname of the ‘Queen of the Midlands’. However, to most of us, Nottingham will always be the home of the legendary outlaw Robin Hood!

Boasting its own castle, a magnificent cathedral, a network of underground caves, and the vibrant Lace Market – teeming with independent cafes, restaurants, and bars – Nottingham is a city with something for everyone.

Yet just minutes away from its center you can enjoy the serenity and beauty of its green spaces. You can also venture a little further into the enormous Sherwood Forest, home to Robin Hood and his Merry Men.

Must see: Nottingham Castle , Wollaton Hall and Park, City of Caves, Old Market Square (Slab Square), Robin Hood Way & the Sherwood Forest.

Nice to see: National Justice Museum, the Arboretum, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem (believed to be England’s oldest pub), Nottingham Contemporary Art Gallery, Highfields Park, D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum.

How much time do you need. You can see most of Nottingham’s main sights in one full day. For a more relaxed experience (especially if you plan to include a trip out to Sherwood Forest), plan two days for your visit.

12. Manchester

Probably best known for its Premier League football teams, Manchester has a lot more going on than football! Located in the northwest of England, the city has a rich industrial past, but nowadays, you’ll find a vibrant place where history and modern-day life go hand in hand.

Manchester is a lively city with a warm atmosphere and plenty to see and do to suit all interests. You’ll find some world-class museums, beautiful architecture, great dining and shopping, and lots of fun activities for young and old. 

Be sure to explore the city center and visit some of its historic landmarks! Manchester Cathedral is an absolute must-see, just as John Rylands Library. For contemporary architecture, head to the Quays, where you’ll find the impressive Imperial War Museum North and The Lowry cultural center. River cruises are a great way to explore this part of town as well!

It would be unthinkable to visit Manchester and not check out at least one of its major football stadiums – Old Trafford, home to Manchester United F.C. or Etihad Stadium, home to Manchester City F.C. In addition, the city is also home to the National Football Museum, the largest football museum in the world.

Must see:  City center, Manchester Cathedral, one of the football stadiums , John Rylands Library, and Science and Industry Museum.

Nice to see:  National Football Museum , Imperial War Museum North, Salford Quays, river cruises , People’s History Museum, Manchester Art Gallery, and Castlefield conservation area.

How much time do you need.  It’s possible to see the main sights of Manchester in a day , but you won’t be able to explore much deeper. If you want to visit a few museums and do some shopping as well, you could easily spend 2-3 days here.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Manchester

13. Norwich

Norwich is a historic city in the heart of rural East Anglia. It was medieval England’s largest walled town. Because of its isolated location, Norwich was virtually bypassed by the Industrial Revolution. So the town has retained many of its medieval Churches and Tudor architecture. All this makes it a truly fascinating place to visit!

A UNESCO City of Literature, Norwich is also the only city in England to be located in a national park (the Norfolk Broads). It boasts a beautiful nature reserve with a river running through the city and an impressive Romanesque cathedral with scenic, peaceful grounds.

Thatched buildings and brightly colored merchant’s houses are just some of the historic sights that give the city its unique and ancient character. You’ll also find cozy pubs dotted everywhere, serving the finest craft beers and ales.

Must see: Norwich Cathedral, Norwich Castle, Norwich Market. Norwich Quayside. Outside the city – Blickling Estate.

Nice to see: The Forum, Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Plantation Garden, Strangers Hall, City of Norwich Aviation Museum, Norwich Guildhall.

How much time do you need. You can see the main sights of Norwich in one day.

14. Bristol

Bristol in the southwest of England is one of the country’s coolest cities. The home town of famed UK street artist Banksy has a strong reputation for creativity. Ultra-modern museums and trendy restaurants make it a fun and lively place to visit, particularly around the port and harbor area which is full of bars and cafes.

But the city has an interesting history, too, with stunning ancient churches, a cathedral, and galleries. Perhaps most fascinating of all is Bristol’s seafaring links. It was the birthplace of the notorious pirate Blackbeard and inspired parts of the famous maritime novels Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe.

There are some lovely green spaces to explore in the city. Or you can choose to get away from the crowds by taking a boat trip along the River Avon. from the water, you can admire the unusually brightly colored buildings and houses that overlook it.

Must see: Bristol Cathedral, Waterfront, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, Clifton Suspension Bridge (looks great at night too), SS Great Britain, Brandon Hill Park & Cabot Tower (great views from the top).

Nice to see: St Mary Redcliffe church, Bristol Zoo Gardens (the 5th oldest zoo in the world), At-Bristol Science Centre, Queen Square. Also, Avon Valley Railway and Blaise Castle Estate (outside the city).

How much time do you need. Bristol is a relatively small city but has lots to see and do. You can cover the highlights in a day, but you need at least 2 days to enjoy it properly.

15. Brighton

The coastal city of Brighton is one of the UK’s most diverse places to visit. It offers everything from vintage seaside attractions to Bohemian markets and Victorian architecture. The city has Britain’s biggest gay scene and some of the best independent shops and boutiques, largely concentrated around the iconic Lanes.

Its pier – packed with rides and entertainment – is one of the biggest attractions in the southeast of England. Brighton even has an exotic palace, Royal Pavilion, that would look more at home in India or China than on the UK’s south coast!

Brighton is also a great UK city for foodies. You’ll find everything from traditional British fish & chips to the finest cuisine at gourmet restaurants. There are lots of bars and eateries lining the pebbled beach, which immediately gives you a vacation feel.

You are never far away from the raw beauty of nature either. Brighton is perfectly positioned to enjoy stunning walks along the England Coast Path. Be sure to visit the white cliffs of Seven Sisters and South Downs nearby!

Must see: Brighton Palace Pier, Brighton Royal Pavilion and Gardens, Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, British Airways i360 Viewing Tower, The Lanes, North Laine.

Nice to see: Regency Square, Brighton Marina, Brighton Toy and Model Museum, Brighton Beach and Promenade, Old Steine Gardens, Brighton Festival (3 weeks every May).

How much time do you need. You will definitely need at least 3 days in Brighton. There is so much to do in Brighton that you could easily spend 5 days in the city, especially in summer.

So, this is our guide to the best, most beautiful cities in the UK.

As you can see, there’s so much more to the UK than just its cities! But even if you visit just a few of these, you’ll get to know a very different country than just by visiting London!

TIP: If you are looking for a more ‘local’ city/ beach holiday in the UK, check out Blackpool . It’s one of the most popular seaside resorts in the UK! Here you can learn all about what there is to see and do in Blackpool . Check it out!

More travel tips and inspiration for all over the UK:

• Must-see in London:  Top London Attractions
• Different London :  Hidden Gems of London  &  Best Views in London
• Good to know:  London Travel Tips & Best Areas to Stay in London
• With kids:  London with Kids  &  Family Afternoon Tea in London
• Greenwich:  Best Things to Do in Greenwich
• Cornwall: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Yorkshire:  Yorkshire Day Trips
• Blackpool: Best Things to Do in Blackpool & Tips for Visiting Blackpool & Best Day Trips from Blackpool
• Scotland:   Isle of Skye  &  Scotland Whisky Tour
• Edinburgh:  Top Edinburgh Attractions  &  One Day in Edinburgh
• Glasgow:  One Day in Glasgow

READ ALSO: Traditional British Food & Where to Try It in the UK

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Photos: Personal collection and Depositphotos.com. Additional credits: Featured image: TTstudio/Shutterstock.com// Cardiff Bay – photo by phil_bird/Depositphotos.com// Belfast Titanic – photo by zhuzhu/Depositphotos.com// Beatles – gianliguori/Depositphotos.com// Cambridge Bridge of Sighs – chrisdorney/Depositphotos.com// Cambridge University – Umdash9/Depositphotos.com// Manchester Castlefield – cowardlion /Depositphotos.com//.

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Thursday 21st of September 2023

Go to Southampton if you want to see nice cruiseships and the New Forest is very close too.

Tuesday 1st of August 2023

Thank you for sharing useful information ...

Saturday 5th of August 2023

Glad to help. Have a great trip!

Saturday 11th of February 2023

I can't believe Birmingham is not on the list, it's the most underrated city in the UK, perhaps it's because once the heart of the Indudtrial Revolution the slums of back to back houses were there until the 1970's, and its maze of run down underground canals. Most canals have now been restored with many nice bars and restaurants on the side of the canals, in and outside the City. It's a compact City Centre that is easy to walk around. The Art Gallery is one of the best I have ever been in, and each time I'm in the City I can't resist going in there, and it is free to go around, unlike in Venice where you have to pay and is nowhere near as interesting as Brums Art Gallery. For those who like to shop it is a City Centre renown for its Bull Ring Shopping Centre. Eating and enjoying Asian food, there is no-where better in Europe. But go and see the City for yourself. The only thing is traveling into the City by train looks awful, but don't judge the book by its cover. Brum has everything, and is a multi cultural City. I live in Spain these days but my heart is in Birmingham, and it's surroundings Remember Stratford upon Avon is only 20 miles away. 👍👍

Sunday 12th of February 2023

Thanks for your suggestions and tips. I'm sure it can be helpful for some of our readers who are looking for even more cities to explore in the UK. Happy travels!

Jessica Fletcher

Sunday 22nd of January 2023

London does not belong on any list of good cities, end of story. Miserable people, ugly buildings, expensive, nothing worthwhile to see except contrived tourist fodder and obscene wealth. One of the worst cities I've ever been to and I've been to most of the major towns and cities in the UK. Otherwise a great list! Glasgow is one that surprised me a lot, considering its bad reputation but it was surprisingly beautiful and the people were very friendly and down to Earth.

@Jessica Fletcher, Jessica you need to use the underground and look around different parts of the City. London is steeped in history and has something for all tastes..Dont be put off by being expensive. There are a lot of reasonably priced places just be adventurous and seek them out. Including places to stay.

Friday 10th of February 2023

@Jurga, now you know second person 😅 as I just hate London, anytime I have to go there it is a nightmare for me.

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Wow, that's a strong opinion about London, Jessica. You are literally the first person I ever 'met' who doesn't like London. I guess that just proves that everyone is different and likes different things. And that's ok. We all have our experiences and our opinions. For us, London is one of the most interesting cities in the world. No matter how many times we go back, there's always something new and exciting to discover, and so many amazing places everywhere you look. Perhaps you should give London a second chance and look beyond the main tourist attractions... We have a 'hidden gems' guide with some suggestions ;). Happy travels!

Friday 13th of January 2023

cardiff and Oxford do not deserve to be in that list, no where near as good as the others!

Sunday 15th of January 2023

Ha ha, we literally just added Oxford to this list because quite a few people thought it deserved a mention. :) And many of our American readers absolutely love it as a day trip from London too. I guess everybody has their own opinion and I'm sure our readers can make their own decisions on which places look the most interesting to them. Happy travels!

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We don’t do ‘sightseeing’. Yes, our cities are full of iconic attractions – but why simply admire them when you can jump right in? Maybe you’ll explore London on a moonlit kayaking tour, go gin tasting and ghost hunting in Cardiff, or discover Edinburgh’s secret underground streets? From river cruises in floating hot-tubs, to overnight stays in our zoos and museums. Whatever you find, you’ll find it with a warm British welcome.

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Lovers of The Crown can wrap themselves in royalty as this town is about as regal as it gets.

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Birthplace of the great bard, William Shakespeare, fall in love with this hopelessly romantic 16th century town.

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Pushing the boundaries of art and culture, with a heart that beats through its people.

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Just an hour by train from London and you’re in the city of dreaming spires.

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An industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart and a whole host of quirky adventures.

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Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

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World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

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Cambridge university botanic garden.

Over 8,000 species spread across 40 acres of beautiful gardens and glasshouses in the centre of Cambridge offer year-round interest and inspiration to visitors of all ages.

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As well as live concerts and spectacular Baroque architecture, Kelvingrove is home to 8,000 treasured exhibits too.

Coventry Transport Museum

See the largest publicly owned collection of British vehicles of anywhere, including the world’s two fastest cars.

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Even 100 years after this mighty ship sank, its story still captures our imagination – brought to life by Titanic Belfast.

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Visit this 19th-century seaside ‘pleasure palace’ in the heart of Brighton to discover its colourful history.

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You’ll find everything from dinosaur bones to contemporary art at this fantastic free museum.

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Spanning the beautiful Avon Gorge, this is one of the world’s most architecturally ambitious bridges – a true work of art.

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The Eagles – The Long Goodbye Final Tour

Don’t miss the UK-exclusive last ever shows from The Eagles at Manchester’s vibrant new venue, Co-op Live.

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Glasgow’s Mural Trail transforms the city’s streets.

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Get hands-on with history at this former palace and prison. It’s full of tales and treasures, including the Crown Jewels.

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Discover this dramatic fortress, perched on top of an extinct volcano at the top of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

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15 of the best things to do in England

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Experience the best of England with these top things to do © SolStock / Getty Images

With its wild coastline, ancient history and cultural contributions that have left a mark around the world, England is one of the world’s most alluring destinations.

And while the famous landmarks and 24/7 buzz of London will always seduce first-time visitors , there are a ton of unique attractions outside the capital that deserve your attention.

From almost-cinematic hikes in the Lake District to the jaunty street art of Bristol, amazing adventures can be had up and down this green and pleasant land. The weather is always changeable, but England’s status as a world-class destination is never in doubt. Here are the best things to do in England.

1. Walk the magnificent medieval walls of York

Many historic cities in Europe retain their original city walls, but few are in as good condition as the 4m (13ft) stone walls surrounding the English city of York . Though the first fortifications were built by the Romans, the current walls are around 700 years old and date back to the medieval period. Stroll atop the walls, and you'll get some stunning views of this city’s soaring spires and crooked rooftops, especially the section behind the grandiose York Minster .

2. Discover the street art of Banksy’s old neighborhood in Bristol

Take a walk through the colorful streets of Bristol’s Stokes Croft neighborhood to see the city’s creative spirit in full flow. The former hometown of enigmatic artist Banksy, Stokes Croft was also his original canvas, and many of his works can still be seen amid the area’s quirky pubs, cool cafes and vintage boutiques.

From classics such as Mild Mild West (with its Molotov-cocktail toting teddy bear) to lesser-known works such as The Rose Trap on Thomas Street North, Banksy’s influence is indelible.

Local tip: Explore more of Banksy's oeuvre on a superbly detailed tour by Where The Wall .

3. Make like a druid and catch the sunrise at Stonehenge

Bizarre and mysterious, the prehistoric stone circle at Stonehenge is one of England’s most evocative sights and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – befitting a site said to date back as far as 3000 BCE. Most visitors gaze at the 50-tonne stones from behind the perimeter fence, but with enough planning, you can arrange an early-morning or evening tour of Stonehenge and gain access to the inner ring itself. The site takes on an ethereal quality as the golden morning sunlight slants between the stones. 

Planning tip: You can enter the circle for a sunrise ceremony for the summer or winter solstice for free as part of the Managed Open Access days.

4. Hit the world’s greatest museums in London

Working out how to spend your time in London when you only have a few days is an almost impossible task as there’s so much to see and do , but it would be remiss to not visit some of its many remarkable museums. Best of all, the majority can be visited free of charge .

From big-hitters such as the British Museum and Kensington greats including the Natural History Museum  and Science Museum to uniquely London-centric spaces such as Covent Garden ’s London Transport Museum , you’ll never be bored on a rainy afternoon in the English capital.

5. Cycle through the heart of England 

The Cotswolds are lush Olde England at its quaint best, and there are few better ways to explore this patchwork of chocolate-box villages than on two wheels on a warm summer’s day. Spread out over six English counties, this expanse of rolling hills features meandering roads, bucolic landscapes and hundreds of cozy country pubs where you can relax with a pint of real ale at the end of a long ride. For a deep dive into this quintessentially English corner of Britain, hire a bike and tackle the 102-mile Cotswold Way from Chipping Campden to Bath.

6. Catch a play in Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare's hometown

The famous-name theaters of London’s West End are the place to catch all the latest shows, but for a true taste of English drama, head up to Stratford-upon-Avon , the one-time home of William Shakespeare himself. Not only is this quaint riverside town a lovely place to explore, but it’s also the official home of the Royal Shakespeare Company , which stages consistently excellent interpretations of The Bard’s most well-known and not-so-well-known works.

7. Surf the waves of Cornwall's wild coastline

While it might not have the sun-kissed tropical scenes of the Gold Coast or Hawaii , Cornwall’s ragged coastline attracts thousands of surfers every summer, drawn by England’s biggest waves. Fistral Beach in Newquay is the epicenter of English surfing life, and its beach breaks produce powerful, hollow waves under a wide range of conditions. Newquay is also Cornwall’s biggest party town, so after a day of surfing, you can let your hair down in one of its many thumping pubs, clubs and bars. 

Detour:  If time and budget allow, consider exploring further with a visit to the Isles of Scilly . St Mary’s (the biggest of the 140 tiny islands) is accessible by ferry (or helicopter) on a day trip.

8. Take a sea-sprayed train ride in Devon

England was the birthplace of rail travel, and its historic rail lines provide some spectacular opportunities to see the country at its best. For a quick taste, take the Riviera Line from Exeter to Teignmouth, a journey of just over an hour that passes by some of Devon’s most beautiful coastal scenery.

The highlight is the stretch by the Regency resort town of Dawlish, where the train hugs the seafront so closely you can almost taste the spray of the waves as they roll back and forth against the shore. Afterward, settle in on the beach in Teignmouth and dip your toes in the English Channel.

9. See Nelson’s famous flagship up close in Portsmouth

England is home to some of the world’s most famous cathedrals, castles and mansions, but one of its most breathtaking artificial sites is a ship that’s been sitting in dry dock for over 100 years. HMS Victory was Lord Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar – arguably the Royal Navy’s greatest-ever maritime victory – and you can explore its enormous wooden frame at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard . The Victory first launched in 1765, and it’s amazing that this 250-year-old ship still exists.

Planning tip:  The engaging audio guide telling the story of Nelson’s final moments is highly recommended.

10. Get lost in the lanes of Brighton

Brighton is unashamedly alternative, and it’s hard not to fall in love with the place when you enter the quirky warren of roads known as the Lanes. Nearby, the North Laine district is the bohemian heart of Brighton, and its vibrant streets are packed with vegan cafes, espresso bars, chaotic pubs, record stores, bric-a-brac shops and vintage clothing boutiques. Spend an afternoon perusing the dusty shelves of Snoopers Paradise before ordering a local cask ale from the Great Eastern’s narrow and always-lively bar.

11. See a gig in Manchester, England's indie music capital

From Oasis to Joy Division and The Smiths, Manchester  has produced some of the UK’s most iconic bands, and the city's musical heritage is still very much alive today. You'll find a plethora of fabulous venues for live music dotted around the city, so be sure to catch a show when evening comes. From the sweat-soaked backrooms of the Eagle Inn to the ornate Albert Hall , you're guaranteed to find a spot to tune into your fave musical genre.

Local tip: Manchester's latest cultural center, Aviva Studios, is the home of Factory International , which opened in mid-2023 with a vision for reinvigorating the city's creative energy.

12. Hike England’s biggest mountain in the Lake District

William Wordsworth wrote many wonderful words about the Lake District , but it’s unlikely that he ever scaled Scafell Pike (unlike his sister, Dorothy). Rising to 978m (3209ft) above sea level, this is England’s highest mountain, and it offers panoramic views from its craggy summit. You can see the peaks of Yr Wyddfa (Mt Snowdon) in Wales and the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland on a clear day. The rocky Wasdale path is the most popular route to the top, and the 4.2km (2.6-mile) journey should take around three hours to complete.

Planning tip: Hikers and peak baggers should plan on sticking around for a bit – the Lake District has some of the best hikes in the UK .

13. Go for a pint in England’s most remote pub in the Yorkshire Dales

England is one of Europe’s most densely packed countries, and locals place a lot of value on unwinding with a quiet pint. Few places are better for that than the Tan Hill Inn on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park . At 1732ft (528m) above sea level, it’s the highest pub in the British Isles and has been known to be completely snowed in during winter blizzards. Still, the surrounding North Yorkshire landscape has a bleak beauty about it, and this remote spot is a perfect place to get away from it all. 

14. Eat fish and chips on the harbor at Whitby

There are few more English experiences than eating fish and chips in a seaside town. And while the northern fishing village of Whitby is more famous for its connections to Bram Stoker and Dracula , it’s also home to some of the finest and freshest fish and chips in the country.

Order a fresh haddock and chips from Quayside or the Magpie Cafe and sit back and admire Whitby’s famous harbor, which sweeps from a cluster of 18th-century fishing cottages along the East Cliff up to the town's famous ruined hilltop Abbey . Just watch out for mischievous seagulls who'll always have an eye on your food.

Planning tip:  Buying an on-the-spot membership to a heritage organization like English Heritage or the National Trust is good value if you plan to visit lots of historic sites. It includes free admission, as well as information handbooks and car parking.

15. Embrace Beatlemania in Liverpool

Yes, there’s a whole lot more to Liverpool than the Fab Four, but the city is stuffed with myriad museums, pop culture landmarks and subtle references to what was arguably the world’s greatest ever band. Start with the Beatles Story followed by a night at the legendary Cavern Club to get your Fab on. Don’t forget that some of the most unique Beatles sites are out of the city center.

Detour: Check out the real-life Penny Lane on the Magical Mystery Tour or, even better, take a tour of the basement of the Casbah Coffee Club to see where the Beatles played their very first gig in 1959.

This article was first published Jun 27, 2022 and updated Mar 22, 2024.

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• Beautiful Towns And Villages You...

10 Beautiful Towns and Villages You Must Visit in Britain

Senior Commercial Content Editor

Away from the main tourist trails, Britain’s picturesque towns and villages offer a unique insight into its astonishing history, culture and landscapes.

Britain’s most charming spots are within easy reach of major cities, but provide an escape from the hustle and bustle. Many remain relatively untouched, and as such offer up stories of the past in their perfectly preserved castles, ancient monuments and dramatic ruins. Here are some of the most stunning hidden gems in Britain.

Broadway, Worcestershire

Not too far from Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon , Broadway is the ultimate chocolate-box Cotswolds village, packed with traditional pubs and tearooms. King Charles I fought the English Civil War from here – you can still sleep in his room in the Lygon Arms – while Oliver Cromwell later stayed at the hotel before the Battle of Worcester. Climb Broadway Tower to try and glimpse 16 counties from the top.

Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Upmarket spa town Harrogate has attracted visitors since Georgian times, when well-heeled types flocked to try its health-giving natural mineral water. Now its chic boutiques, Turkish baths, pristine parkland and the famous Bettys tearoom make it a great base from which to explore the hidden waterfalls, windswept hills and ancient castles of the Yorkshire Dales.

Woodbridge, Suffolk

Nine miles from bustling Ipswich, picture-perfect Woodbridge is a paradise for devoted shoppers and foodies thanks to its independent boutiques, thriving markets and charming riverside cafés. Try a cruise down the River Deben (watch for passing seals), step back in time at the Tide Mill Living Museum or visit the extraordinary Anglo-Saxon burial site at Sutton Hoo.

Hambledon, Hampshire

Cricket fans, wine lovers and history buffs should make a beeline for Hambledon, home to both the UK’s oldest commercial vineyard and one of the world’s oldest cricket clubs. Easily reached from Portsmouth, the idyllic countryside village in the heart of the South Downs dates back 3,000 years and still features Roman remains, a Saxon church and Norman buildings.

Inveraray, Argyll

Renowned for its handsome Georgian streets, world-class seafood and romantic loch-side views, Inveraray is the gateway to the Highlands near Argyll on the shores of Loch Fyne. Tour the magnificent Inveraray Castle, the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, then follow the steep trail up Dun na Cuaiche watchtower for breathtaking views back over the town and the loch beyond.

Wycoller, Lancashire

With its rushing river, stone bridges and car-free streets, Wycoller is a tranquil hamlet where it is believed people have settled since the Stone Age. One 1,000-year old bridge is even officially listed as an Ancient Monument. Often visited by the Brontës, Wycoller Hall – now an eerie ruin – is considered to have been the inspiration for the manor house in Jane Eyre.

Beddgelert, Snowdonia

Outdoor types heading to the towering mountains of Snowdonia should not miss pretty Beddgelert, a tiny stone village dating back to the 12th century. Visit the Victorian copper mine and superb ice-cream parlour, then walk the easy riverside path to the rumoured grave of Gelert, the faithful dog of medieval Welsh prince Llywelyn the Great.

Melrose, Scottish Borders

Surrounded by ruggedly beautiful hills, Melrose is famous for its walled gardens, Abbotsford – the art-filled home of writer Sir Walter Scott – and its imposing Gothic abbey ruins where Scottish national hero Robert the Bruce’s heart is buried. Once the site of a Roman fort called Trimontium, this tiny town later became the birthplace of rugby sevens when a local butcher invented the game in 1883.

Lacock, Wiltshire

Travel back in time in this unspoilt Wiltshire village, which is owned by the National Trust. The village’s narrow streets and traditional stone cottages look exactly as they would have 200 years ago when the town thrived in the wool trade, while the abbey dates back to the 13th century. Eagle-eyed Harry Potter and Downton Abbey fans may also recognise it as a filming location.

Higher Bockhampton, Dorset

Literary lovers will be enchanted by this blissful rural hamlet in Dorset where author Thomas Hardy was born and raised. Visit the thatched cottage where Hardy lived then wander through the ancient Thorncombe Woods that inspired several of his novels. Pass an original Roman road, wild heathlands and the serene Rushy Pond, where you might spot resident Dartmoor ponies grazing.

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8 Picturesque Small Towns in England

These delightful small towns in England offer everything from craggy coves and cream teas to hillside picnics and frothing pints.

Mandy Haakenson/Travel + Leisure

Nowhere else in the world does "quaint" quite like England. Go beyond the main urban hubs like London , Birmingham, and Manchester, and you'll discover hundreds of picturesque smaller towns that have inspired poets, painters, and playwrights with their beauty.

From historic fishing hamlets to idyllic country villages, England's green and pleasant land is teeming with charm. Even better, it's all incredibly well connected via national rail links. If you're planning a trip across the pond, read on for the rural change of pace your itinerary needs. These are eight of the best small towns in England, all packed with delightful scenery, fascinating history, delicious food, and more.

Avebury, Wiltshire

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Many people have likely heard of Stonehenge, but few know of Avebury, a delightful village under an hour from the mighty monoliths. While nowhere near as old as its Neolithic neighbor, Avebury still has plenty of its own history to show off, as the town dates back more than 1,000 years. Much of the village is surrounded by another ancient stone circle, while more modern highlights include the grand 16th-century Avebury Manor and Garden and glorious village pub, Red Lion , which is famed for its roaring fire and warming comfort food.

Tintagel, Cornwall

Situated on Cornwall's dramatic Atlantic coast, Tintagel is heavily entwined with the legend of King Arthur, who supposedly ruled from his stronghold here. As a result, the craggy cliffside castle ruins are a popular tourist attraction, as is Merlin's Cave, a natural cavern at the base of the cliffs, where the wizard allegedly lived. In town, grab a steaming hot Cornish pasty from the appropriately named Cornish Bakery and a cream tea from King Arthur's Café before sourcing dessert from the town's famous fudge shop, Roly's Fudge Pantry . If you're up for a short hike, St. Nectan's Glen is a magnificent spot just outside of town, with its own deep legends and a dramatic 60-foot waterfall at its heart.

Bakewell, Derbyshire

Anooj Vedd/Travel + Leisure

This pretty northern town with its stone houses straight out of a storybook is synonymous with the Bakewell tart, a delicious jam pudding invented here about 200 years ago. Aside from sampling the best tarts the local bakeries have to offer, visitors can check out several fantastic pubs, including The Manners and The Red Lion . It's easy to walk off the pudding and pints afterward, too, as Bakewell sits in the heart of England's spectacular Peak District National Park , stuffed with excellent hiking trails. Just save enough time to visit the iconic Chatsworth House while you're in town — it's one of the finest country estates in Europe.

Lavenham, Suffolk

RORY FULLER/TRAVEL + LEISURE

During the 15th century, Lavenham was one of the wealthiest towns in England, thanks to a roaring wool trade. But cheaper imports from Europe saw workers leave in droves, and the town lay frozen in time. Today, it looks very much as it did then: quaint medieval buildings leaning haphazardly into one another in a riot of drunken pastels and timbers. As a result, strolling down the high street feels like walking through a fairy tale — or a Hollywood movie, as Lavenham has appeared in plenty of the latter, most famously doubling as Harry Potter's birthplace in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One." Behind the higgledy-piggledy facades are several excellent eateries, but first-time visitors should make a beeline for the extraordinary Lavenham Guildhall , where you can sip tea in a remarkably well-preserved Tudor room.

Shaftesbury, Dorset

Home to Gold Hill, the steep, cobblestone street dubbed "one of the most romantic sights in England," Shaftesbury is a major charmer. The tiny Dorset town is also home to the ruins of Shaftesbury Abbey , built in 888 AD by King Alfred, the man credited with creating England. Shaftesbury is also surrounded by a wealth of incredible countryside rich in picnicking potential, including Fontmell Down , Duncliffe Wood , and Melbury Beacon — a hilltop that was part of the chain of beacons linking London to Plymouth in 1588 to warn of the approach of the Spanish Armada.

Rye, East Sussex

Mandy Haakenson/Travel + Leisure

Perched two miles from the sea at the confluence of three rivers, ancient Rye has deep maritime roots dating back to the Roman era, but its center is very much medieval, with twisting cobblestone streets and charmingly crooked houses. The most famous of these is The Mermaid Inn , established in 1156. A notorious smuggling den in the 18th century, this spot is now one of the most charming pubs in southern England. (Tip: Don't miss the superb Sunday roast dinner.)

Rye is riddled with secret passages and ancient alleyways that are a pleasure to explore, but you can gain a bird's-eye view over the warren from the climbable 12th-century bell tower of St. Mary's Church . After hiking and climbing above this picturesque destination, seek out Simon the Pieman on Lion Street for delicious scones served with strawberry jam and clotted cream.

St. Ives, Cornwall

Tucked on the rugged coast of the Celtic Sea, St. Ives used to be little more than a traditional fishing village, but this gorgeous coastal town has evolved into one of Britain's most popular seaside destinations. Its soft, sandy beaches regularly win awards, and there's also a decent surf and plenty of excellent seafood dining options. The town has even forged a reputation as a serious arts hub, with a cluster of outstanding galleries led by the seafront Tate St. Ives , which features rotating modern art exhibitions focusing on British artists.

Castle Combe, Wiltshire

Garnering the nickname of " prettiest village in England " is a tricky feat, particularly when the competition is so ferocious, but Castle Combe, a beautiful spot in the impossibly photogenic Cotswolds region, has managed it, and few would argue. Its handsome honey-hued stone houses and flower-lined lanes have graced countless postcards and magazine covers over the years, not to mention TV series like Downton Abbey and Hollywood movies such as "Stardust" and Steven Spielberg's "War Horse." If you're planning to head out on one of the many footpaths spiraling into the spectacular surrounding countryside, grab some fresh produce from the many honesty boxes placed outside local homes for a picnic. This is a town as generous and welcoming as it is picturesque.

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The best seaside towns in England

By Harriet O'Brien and Madeleine Bunting

In the early 18th century, the English regarded their shoreline with distaste. The seaside towns in England were exposed to the tides and prone to landslides and gales, it was the domain of fishermen, smugglers and those relegated to society’s margins. In the decades that followed, a dramatic reimagining recast the English seaside as a place for health, pleasure and rest. A triumphant rebranding job, the seaside resort has proved one of England’s most successful and widely exported inventions.

Spurred on by the rise of rail travel in the Victorian era, by the 20th century, millions were visiting seaside towns in England. Resorts proliferated along every English coastline, offering a cornucopia of architectural highlights – from the fantasy of Brighton ’s Pavilion to the spectacular Blackpool Tower, built to rival the Eiffel Tower and the magnificent modernism of Morecambe’s Midland Hotel in the 1930s. Piers, promenades, arcades, pleasure parks, beach huts and elaborate shelters were designed to delight and entertain. The seaside exerted a gravitational pull on the English imagination, inspiring painters, writers and filmmakers. Sand, ice creams, chilly seas, wind breaks and donkey rides became part of the cultural imagination – even after cheap flights brought the Mediterranean Sea within reach, which meant neglected late-20th-century seaside towns. Today, nostalgia and the depth of affection are powering a new wave of reinvention. Prime examples include Margate ’s Turner Contemporary, Folkestone’s beautiful redevelopment and unparalleled collection of public art, Lowestoft’s South Beach, and the recently agreed £100 million outpost of the Eden Project on Morecambe’s seafront.

Sam Mendes’ beautiful Margate-set film, Empire of Light , reminds us that the seaside resort taps into England’s most tender dreams of redemption and hope. This is the place for second chances and last chances. I lost count of the number of piers whose elaborate Victorian ironwork was festooned with padlocks, mementos, artificial flowers and framed photos, marking rites of passage of love, death and birth. The seaside is a place designed to allow and forgive the sentimental. It is quintessentially part of being English. Madeleine Bunting

The Seaside: England’s Love Affair , by Madeleine Bunting, is out now.

Dungeness, Kent

“Dungeness is not ‘bleak’,” reads the canvas at the open studios towards the tip of this windswept, wonderfully peculiar peninsula – a testament to its contested charm. Over the steam railway tracks from Romney Marsh, this untamed expanse, sitting in the lee of a nuclear power station and with its skyline marked by a succession of lighthouses , may not emit traditional postcard beauty, but Europe’s largest shingle beach has poetic value, historic intrigue and hard-to-beat sunsets. Its desolate mass is scattered with skeletons of boats, weather-boarded cottages and the spoils of high tide, while rare flora battles to colonise the shingle – a unique view that late artist Derek Jarman called “modern nature”. His tar-black Prospect Cottage makes Dungeness a pilgrimage for aesthetes, while abundant birdlife on the RSPB’s first-ever reserve draws bird-watchers to the community’s eclectic mix.

Where to stay

A low-slung scattering of rustic fisherman huts and right-angled architectural passion projects across the shingle offer an insight into this coastal community. Popular rental options include the Shingle House and Wi Wurri . Down the road, behind the dunes at Camber Sands, The Gallivant has seaside-smart rooms with roll-top baths, a Bamford spa cabin and an excellent locavore restaurant; The Gallivant Littlestone Beach opens nearby this summer with 12 bedrooms and a design that references the breezy beachiness of East Coast America in the late 1920s.

Where to eat

With two boats working daily, seafood doesn’t get fresher than at the Dungeness Snack Shack , a matt-black cabin that, depending on the season, serves scallop baps, lobster, crab, sole and plaice with fried potatoes and homemade tartare and chilli jam. Some of Britain’s best wineries – Tillingham, Gusbourne and Charles Palmer – are a 20-minute drive away. Ben Olsen

Margate, Kent

It’s hard to talk about Margate without descending into cliche: about Shoreditch-on-Sea, Dreamland et al, or the existential whiff of T.S. Eliot’s Waste Land captured by Sam Mendes’s Empire Of Light . But what I love is its diversity: that the LGBTQ+ crowd, the Gormley-watchers, the Medway teenagers, the three-legged greyhounds and the ageing ravers on the Harbour Arm all have a space. I also love that, while the Margate Main Sands looks like a Where’s Wally? illustration on a warm summer’s day, there are quieter bays in either direction, with rare chalk reefs and stacks at Botany Bay and Kingsgate, and jolly seafront cycle cruises to Whitstable or Ramsgate.

Margate is upping its game: graduating from pubs and restaurants with rooms ( Angela’s , The George and Heart ) and impressive B&Bs ( The Reading Rooms , Libertines-owned The Albion Rooms ) to fully-fledged hotels. The Fort Road Hotel , a local icon elegantly reworked by a creative trio including Frieze magazine founder Matthew Slotover, has been a local hit, especially with the Tracey Emin-led art crowd – for overnights with views over the Turner Contemporary, or Montgomery cheddar souffles by ex-River Cafe chef Daisy Cecil in the ground floor bistro. Now, it's joined by No.42 Margate , a revamp of the tired Sands Hotel, by the GuestHouse Hotels group behind smart boutiques in Bath and York.

If there’s not a seafront table at Dory’s , the small-plates offshoot of local seafood pioneer Angela’s, locals tend to head for the unbookable outside tables at Bottega Caruso , where even the Cantabrian greens and beans are sublime. Sargasso, on the Harbour Arm, has a whiff of Hackney , but there’s no arguing with airy parmesan fritters and Sbagliatos as the tide shifts over the rippled Main Sands. Up the hill, Cliftonville is having a moment in the sun with smart wine bar Sete and Indian street food spot Streets new on the same block on Northdown Road. Toby Skinner

Falmouth, Cornwall

Neither in thrall to celebrity chefs, nor reliant on pastel pink-clad summer crowds, this charismatic harbour town has sparkling beaches right in town and a subtropical climate – not to mention a year-round buzz. Paddleboarders setting off at dawn from Gyllyngvase Beach mingle with workers knocking off from shifts at the dock. For itinerant hipsters, there are single-origin roasts at Beacon Coffee or craft beers from the Verdant Brewing Co. The quantity of art students in Penryn means that this is a town where people make art: see it at the new grass-roots space, The Cornish Bank. Falmouth has a railway station, so there is no need to drive – with a short ferry to St Mawes and wildflower-lined paths to Pendennis Castle or the Helford River.

There is a cluster of smart hotels between Gylly Beach and the centre of town. The reimagined 84-room St Michaels Resort now has an expansive spa and hydrotherapy centre. Nearby, the cosier Merchants Manor has added hot tubs to its sub-tropical gardens. In town, gastropub The Star & Garter has three smart suites overlooking the harbour.

While Falmouth swerves the foodie hype associated with Newlyn, Padstow or Porthleven, its stock is rising. Spilling out onto the cobbles on The Old Brewery Yard, Mine serves a clever, concise menu informed by local ingredients – Cornish sole, crab fritters and baked celeriac. Having added three AA Rosettes to Merchant Manor’s Rastella , South African chef Hylton Espey branched out last summer to launch Culture at Custom House Quay. In a Nordic-inspired setting, seven-course tasting menus make a meal of foraged, preserved and fermented ingredients alongside braai-grilled local lamb and venison. Ben Olsen

Suffolk Heritage Coast

The Suffolk coast in the summer isn’t just about Aldeburgh or Southwold. And despite its soulful villages, heathland-edged coast and bounteous foodie scene, there are still parts of the coastline that remain happily under the radar – deserted rivers, forests and even beaches, including Covehithe, with its powder sand shoreline stretching as far as the eye can see, and the rugged shingle stretches of Dunwich and Thorpeness.

The latest luxe bolthole at The Wilderness Reserve is the cute-as-a-button Stump cottage with a private spa, sauna and lake. Just down the coast, the newly opened The Suffolk has six soothing rooms, some with sea views, along with a buzzy bar and restaurant. Room five at the dog-friendly Five Acre Barn – a cedar-clad, RIBA award-winning B&B just outside Aldeburgh – has triple-aspect views out onto stunning gardens packed with ornamental grasses.

Pump Street Bakery in Orford serves the county’s best breakfast pastries, and great sourdough and sea salt bars at their sister chocolate shop across the square. After a soothing walk around the quay and along the River Ore, the Butley Orford Oysterage is a no-fuss lunch spot for a dozen of the outstanding Butley Creek bivalves. Just outside Saxmundham at Maple Farm , Alice Norman’s cooling St Jude & blackcurrant ripple gelato is served with homemade cones using the farm’s own grains. A front-row table at the Ramsholt Arm overlooks the best sunsets over the River Deben. At the Greyhound Inn in Pettistree, River Café alumnus Harry McKenzie is wowing locals with cow’s curd ravioli or lamb sweetbreads, broad beans, crème fraîche and sorrel. Clare Coulson

Scarborough, Yorkshire

Scarborough has a good claim to being the most beautiful seaside resort in England – although I may be biased, given that I grew up in North Yorkshire and often visited as a child. The dramatic castle occupies the headland which separates the two main bays – steep cliffs stretching away in both directions. The old town ascends the slope to the castle in a maze of crooked streets, with buildings dating back to Tudor times. The town is a showcase of every stage of seaside architecture over the last two centuries – from Georgian crescents to Victorian hotels, with an Art Nouveau spa and an Art Deco theatre. Scarborough was built to entertain the wealth of West Yorkshire textile owners with museums, galleries and theatres, and everywhere their ambition and flamboyance is evident. Meanwhile, still hovering over the town is the glamour and eccentricity of the Sitwell family and the sibling writers, Edith, Osbert and Sacheverell, who spent summers there in its Edwardian heyday.

Foremost among the new breed of local hotels is the au courant Bike and Boot Hotel , housed in a handsome Victorian terrace in the centre of town, with dog grooming and an onsite film club.

Scarborough still isn’t a culinary hotspot to rival Margate or Whitstable, but Cafe Fish is a must-visit for local crab and lobster, and serious Yorkshire steak among the seafood. The Love Brew Café is a beloved local institution for great coffee and hearty vegan food, while the Steampuss Cat Lounge has become a cult local attraction with its 15 in-house felines. Madeleine Bunting

Salcombe, Devon

The narrow A-road winding towards the southern edge of Devon promises access to an enchanted world. Wild fuchsias grow in the hedgerows; seagulls strike picturesque poses; dolphins frequent the sheltered bays. Salcombe is a pretty cluster of stone and pastel-coloured houses built along terraces on a steep slope. They overlook wonderfully blue waters that are studded with white boats. Most of the sheltered, golden beaches of the estuary can be reached by car, but it is quicker and more fun to take a ferry from the centre of Salcombe. The South Sands Ferry serves the western shore; beaches on the eastern shore are reached from the village of East Portlemouth, a ferry ride across the estuary from Salcombe. Head to Whitestrand Quay and catch the foot ferry to South Sands, a journey of 10 minutes on a tubby, blue-and-yellow vessel that looks as though it could have sailed out of a children's picture book. Take a cruise around the estuary with Whitestrand Boat Hire at Strand Court, where you can also rent rods and self-drive boats.

A minor revolution has been taking place in Salcombe's hotels. South Sands is a boutique property with a New England look. Set on a glorious sweep of sandy beach about a mile from Salcombe, it has 22 spacious bedrooms reached via a spiral staircase and 5 beach suites. In town, the Salcombe Harbour Hotel on Cliff Road has a spa, pool and extensive terrace.

In town, Dickandwills on Fore Street is a sleek brasserie with a stunning waterside terrace. It serves dishes including carpaccio of Devon beef and slow-cooked, spiced local lamb, and has a loyal following thanks to its reasonable prices, cheerful ambience and excellent seafood. Slightly further afield is Sea View Restaurant at South Sands Hotel, which has fabulous views from its terrace and through a curving wall of windows. The menu has seasonal dishes such as chilli crab linguine and Salcombe Gin salmon gravlax. For relaxed family dining, go to The Winking Prawn on North Sands, less than a mile from the heart of Salcombe: an extended beach café, it serves crab-mayonnaise lunches and a bistro-style dinner menu which includes monkfish wrapped in bacon.

Eastbourne and beyond

Its pier presents a chimerical silhouette above the water; its seafront promenade is punctuated by a much-loved bandstand; its streets are lined with grand, Victorian buildings. Eastbourne in East Sussex is the quintessential, old-fashioned seaside resort. But it provides easy access to the glorious new South Downs National Park, and to intriguing and little-known art trails. Eastbourne is fronted by three miles of shingle, plus sand at low tide. There are deckchairs and cafés in the Grand Parade section. Beyond the town are stunning and relatively secluded beaches beneath the cliffs of the South Downs . Falling Sands Beach, accessed from a footpath and via steep steps, is an attractive (and sandy) stretch. Stroll the seafront promenade, which is lined with beds of bright flowers. For great views back over the town's Italianate architecture, walk the 1,000-foot-long pier. Visit Towner Gallery for its contemporary art exhibitions. Eastbourne's hinterland has informal art routes that are also well worth following. About 10 miles away is Charleston, which was the home of Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant and retains their murals and art collection (including works by Picasso and Renoir).

The recently opened Port Hotel is the smartest stay in Eastbourne – a gamechanger, set right on the seafront. Well-positioned on the seafront, on King Edward's Parade, the boldly decorated Citrus Eastbourne is furnished with faux-fur curtains and Seventies-style designer wallpaper. The 50 bedrooms are spacious and keenly priced, and most offer good views.

On the steep, white cliffs of nearby Beachy Head is the Belle Tout Lighthouse , now a quirky and stylish B&B. Built in 1832 and a working lighthouse until 1902, it was picked up and moved away from the eroding cliff edge in 1999. The refurbished property has six bedrooms and offers gourmet breakfasts and complimentary evening drinks in the lounge.

Where to eat and drink

Go to breezy Company for brunch or Skylark for candle-lit suppers. For something a little edgier, Cru is a subterranean restaurant and wine bar.

Blakeney and the north Norfolk coast

Between Blakeney and its neighbour Cley, the north Norfolk coast is a 'seaside' only in the broadest sense; although the latter's full name is Cley Next The Sea, both it and Blakeney now have marshland where the sea used to be. But Holkham, to the west, has a superb beach, and Wells (also Next-The-Sea) has a bucket and-spade strip selling shrimp nets and 'kiss me quick' hats. The main appeal of the coast, however, is that it fell asleep a couple of centuries ago and is just beginning to wake up. As for beaches, Cley and Salthouse have gaunt, pebble 'dunes' stretching miles in each direction. But the crescent of sand at Wells, with its long line of beach huts, joins the vast strand of Holkham to create one of the UK's finest beaches. If you get there at low tide, be patient; the sea will be with you eventually. Go on one of Beans Boat Trips from Morston Quay through the marshes to see the seals at Blakeney Point. Call into the Cley Marshes Visitor Centre, a wing-like building where you can learn about the nature reserve and admire it through the wide-screen viewing window. Eagle-eyed visitors will spot a crooked wooden ladder sticking out of the marsh across the coast road: this is part of an otherwise elusive sculpture trail.

The flintwork front wall of the Blakeney Hotel lies directly opposite the village's little quay. It's a placid location: unlike a sandy beach, a narrow creek doesn't tend to draw a crowd. The family-owned hotel, opened in 1923, is a traditional place where the style stays within the comfort zone of Farrow & Ball colours and floral fabrics. But the 60 bedrooms are well fitted and furnished, there's a 15-metre indoor pool, and the tasty restaurant food is served by staff who dress formally but behave informally - a winning combination. The smart place to stay is Morston Hall , just two miles west of Blakeney: it's a 13-room, country-house hotel whose focus is its Michelin-starred restaurant. About the same distance in the other direction is Cley Windmill , an 18th-century structure which - sails still intact - is a delightful eight-room guest house with a holiday cottage attached. Couples looking for somewhere to cosy up should consider The Wiveton Bell , a Fulham-style pub just inland, which has six well-designed rooms and one cottage.

The Holkham Estate has played a big part in the gentrification of the north Norfolk coast as a place to stay and eat. The food and wines are certainly good at the well-regarded Victoria at Holkham, but the prices are up at London levels, and the place feels as if it might be rolled out as a 'Café Norfolk' chain. There is no fear of that happening with the splendid Wiveton Farm Café, although Britain would be a happier and more rosy-cheeked place if it did. The premises are a cabin in the middle of a fruit farm, with a pine-shaded terrace on three sides; inside, it's all pastel colours, printed oilcloths and charming staff. There are home-baked goods in the morning and afternoon, hearty dishes at lunch and sell-out tapas evenings (Friday and Saturday, May-September). Fish and chips are a staple in these parts. French's Fish Shop in Wells has a loyal following, and there are good chippies in Holt and at Salthouse on the coast.

Charlotte Davey

Connor Sturges

Sarah James

Mawgan Porth, Cornwall

The natural drama is compelling. Atlantic waves pound the shores of a deep, sandy bay; steep cliffs on each side provide great vantage points for views over the strikingly azure sea. Mawgan Porth in Cornwall is a small village that has gained a big reputation for its surf scene and trailblazing, eco-friendly accommodation. It is becoming a gentler alternative to Watergate Bay, which is about three miles south. Both areas have big beaches – some of the best in Cornwall – and big tides, but which is better: Mawgan Porth or Watergate Bay? The former is generally less crowded; the latter has a longer stretch of golden sand. For a haven of quiet, head to Bedruthan Steps Beach, just north of Mawgan Porth. The 'steps' are sea-stack rock formations along a sandy shore accessed via a vertiginous footpath. (The currents here make it dangerous to swim, and you should always make yourself aware of the tides: consult tidal times in the Newquay area at easytide.ukho.gov.uk ).

The Scarlet Hotel is a salty-aired, eco-friendly spa-slash-hotel – all seaweed-infused hot tubs, yoga sessions in the garden and swinging pods in the dark relaxation room. It earns its green credentials, using solar panels and biomass boilers, and harvests and recycles rainwater – plus has some of the best views on this rugged slice of coast.

Book The Living Space at the Watergate Bay Hotel for a cream tea, or Catch Seafood, Bar and Grill for brunch.

St Ives, Cornwall

The bustling fishing port of St Ives is classic Cornwall lined with fishermen's cottages and cobbled streets. Located in the west of the county, it has a splendid harbour that's full of life and a shoreline of sandy Blue Flag beaches , while it's also brimming with art and culture, and has a wonderful selection of local shops and cafés. This is a beautiful place to escape everyday life and immerse yourself in the holiday vibe, to surf the waves (or attempt to) and soak up some history. The beaches scattered along St Ives’ shoreline are all within walking distance of the town. Porthmeor, perhaps the most popular, is a great family spot for a picnic and midday swim or surf. For a quieter option with a sea breeze, Porthgwidden is a gorgeous stretch of white sand that's lined with beach huts. Porthminster Beach is also popular among sun-seekers, with clear blue waters and views of the Godrevy Lighthouse – inspiration for Virginia Woolf’s novel To The Lighthouse – three miles out to sea.

Overlooking Porthminster’s sandy beach, the modern-style St Ives Harbour Hotel & Spa has that true British seaside feel with a little extra luxury. Its spa is equipped with hydrotherapy and heated pools, plus a steam room and sauna, and the HarBar Kitchen, Bar and Terrace draws guests with its fresh seafood, charming alfresco setting and dreamy views. The small, privately run 15-room Boskerris Hotel offers a relaxed, Mediterranean-style experience with panoramic sea views. There are lovely walking paths into the centre of St Ives with its shops and restaurants, or it’s just a simple three-minute train journey into town. Pre-order flowers and Champagne to your room for special occasions.

Grab the very best Cornish pasty at Pengenna Pasties , freshly baked using the family’s original recipe since 1985. St Ives Bakery also sells a delicious array of warm pastries to munch on while ambling through town. For a seaside lunch, Porthmeor Beach Café opposite the Tate has a lively atmosphere and a great selection of creative small plates full of intricate flavours.

The Mermaid is one of the longest-standing restaurants in St Ives, situated in the old fishing quarter and serving amazing seafood in an authentic setting while also delving into the history of the town. Diners are immersed in the past via vintage photographs lining the walls and church pews used as booths. Go for the fish platter, then round things off with the Mermaid Mess (a twist on the Eton Mess). For a fun and quirky dining experience, head to The Rum and Crab Shack along the harbour. Tuck into Cornish crab or lobster (aprons provided) and order a zesty Dark ’n’ Stormy, made with one of the hundred spicy rums from all over the world collected by the owners. Cordelia Aspinall

Folkestone, Kent

As a 90s teenager growing up in Folkestone during its fallow years, I didn’t foresee it becoming one of the UK’s most vibrant seaside towns. It’s a continually surprising – and heartening – revelation that Folkestone’s become such a cultural hub, thanks in no small part to the presence of acclaimed art born of the town’s Triennial – works by Antony Gormley, Tracey Emin, Richard Woods and AK Dolven pepper an area now considered to be the UK’s largest urban outdoor exhibition of contemporary art. Of course, Folkestone always had good bones: the Leas clifftop promenade designed by Decimus Burton, and wide shingle beaches with views of the French coastline on clear days. But the transformation of places that, as teens, we wouldn’t have dreamed of venturing to – from Tontine Street, now awash with galleries and bars, to the Old High Street dotted with boutiques selling boujie pet accessories and vintage fashion – makes it a legitimate metamorphosis.

Despite its progressive cultural scene, Folkestone is still playing catch-up when it comes to places to stay. Rocksalt , an excellent seafood restaurant with rooms located on the edge of the pretty fishing harbour, has the nicest rooms – think antique cast iron bedsteads, open brickwork, and balconies overlooking the water. Up on the Leas, The Burlington is a Victorian redbrick mansion that’s pet-friendly and, while a little dated, makes a good base.

The harbour arm is, naturally, the prettiest location and has a growing selection of options, from locally-landed seafood at Little Rock to She Sells Seashells , which occupies old clapboard railway carriages and serves hearty bowlfuls of mussels and occasional Southern-style seafood boils. In town, near the top of the Old High Street, The Folkestone Wine Company sees chef David Hart – formerly of the Sportsman at Seasalter – serve French-inspired dishes like halibut in lobster bisque and breaded belly of lamb with boulangère potatoes. It’s tiny, so worth booking. Imogen Rowland

Mersea Island, Essex

I still have the postcards my gran sent from Clacton, Eighties bucket-and-spade seaside snaps in over-saturated colours. Mersea Island lies just around the coast, but I think of it in terms of a woodcut, of black mooring posts stark against a herringbone sky, or the arrowhead tracks of curlew and golden plover on mudflats. There are sands to stretch out on in summer, but this is a shore better for foraging and scrunching across, past marsh grass and drifts of sea lavender. The water here is reluctant to relinquish the land, flooding the causeway at high tide, forming maze patterns of creeks. Time shifts on Mersea, too. Fossils of hippopotamus bones emerge from the rock; out on the estuary, the lantern-red sails of a Thames barge ease by, straight out of a Dickens novel. I love the sense of Victorian Gothic – it’s the English coast at its earthiest and most beguiling.

I really want to stay in one of the private houseboats, beached like whales on the creeks of West Mersea, but in lieu of those, there’s the White Hart Inn , which reopened on the high street in 2022 with six bedrooms in bright greens and blues, and a menu that plates up salt-baked celeriac and confit chicken wing alongside oysters from Richard Haward, whose family have farmed the bivalves since the 18th century. For a cosy daytime base, the Little Beach Hut Company has four retro-styled huts on the sands. Haward’s rock oysters can also be shucked at The Company Shed , along with crab sandwiches and grilled mussels.

Things to do

The White Hart is also a gallery space for the island’s creative community, which includes abstract painter Beth Holmes and ceramicist Nicola Contreras, who break away from the usual ‘sea and boats’ depictions – their work can also be found at The Oyster Gallery and at their homes during the Mersea Open Studios (26-28 May and 1-3 September). Pick up a bottle of Island Yo Boy session ale at the Mersea Island Brewery – more can be had at this summer’s debut West Mersea Food and Drink Festival in August. Rick Jordan

Portscatho, Cornwall

So much of the Cornish buzz happens west of Falmouth, and the Roseland Peninsula isn’t as well known as the Lizard Peninsula. But Portscatho, a one-time pilchard port on the peninsula’s eastern edge, is as lovely as anywhere in the county on a summer’s day. Along with Gerrans, the adjoining village up the hill, it’s become a place of salty sea air, boutique galleries and local ice cream, with two gorgeous beaches – Tatum and Porthcurnick – that are sheltered from prevailing winds and join at low tide.

The 18th-century Plume of Feathers is a well-loved local pub, with a solid pub menu including a great day boat chowder and serious Sunday roasts, and has five crisp bedrooms upstairs. Just north of town along a coastal path, the Driftwood Hotel is a clapboard boutique with faint echoes of New England, and gorgeous views from the terrace, with a menu geared towards local fish and fowl.

Up in Gerrans, the Standard Inn is a serious locavore gastropub in a restored 18th-century fisherman’s pub, which was reopened in middle of last summer’s heatwave by Simon Stallard and Jemma Glass, the husband and wife team behind the cult Hidden Hut beach shack just up the coast. Come summer, expect Stallard to cook local hake, cull yaw mutton, and Creedy Carver duck on a wood-fired outdoor grill. Down by the seaside, Tatams is a picture-perfect coffee house in a waterfront shack, with serious breakfast baps with local back bacon or St Ewe egg and Portobello mushrooms. Just behind it, Tavola does proper stone-baked Romana pizzas and a simple, aperitivo-focused drinks menu, with consumption on the beach – possibly after a salty swim – encouraged. Emily Barr

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in England

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Feb 21, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

A former resident of the UK and now a frequent visitor, Author Bryan Dearsley spent eight weeks touring England in the summer of 2022 while on assignment for Planetware .

One of the most popular travel destinations in the world , England offers almost endless possibilities for vacationers seeking things to do and top attractions to visit.

Part of the beautiful British Isles, this small but influential country bursts with fascinating history, exciting cities, and rich cultural traditions. Historic sites are at every turn, from prehistoric megaliths and ancient Roman sites to centuries-old castles and town centers dating back to the Middle Ages .

England is also extremely easy to get around, with its most popular tourist destinations well connected by trains and buses. Alternatively, you can drive between points of interest on a well-planned system of motorways. Whether you choose to tour the country by car or public transport, you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

To help you get the most out of your travel itinerary, be sure to use our list of the best places to visit in England.

1. Stonehenge, Wiltshire

2. tower of london, city of london, 3. the roman baths and georgian city of bath, somerset, 4. the british museum, bloomsbury, london, 5. york minster and historic yorkshire, 6. windsor castle, berkshire, 7. chester zoo, cheshire, 8. lake district national park, cumbria, 9. canterbury cathedral, kent, 10. liverpool & the beatles, merseyside, 11. eden project, cornwall, 12. the cotswolds, 13. the national gallery, city of westminster, london, 14. warwick castle, warwickshire, 15. tate modern, southwark, london, 16. royal museums greenwich, london.

Stonehenge , 10 miles north of the historic city of Salisbury on Salisbury Plain, is Europe's best-known prehistoric monument. It's so popular that visitors need to purchase a timed ticket in advance to guarantee entry.

Exhibitions at the excellent Stonehenge Visitor Centre set the stage for a visit. Here, you'll find displays explaining through audio-visual experiences and more than 250 ancient objects how the megaliths were erected between 3000 and 1500 BCE. They also offer fascinating insights and information about life during this time.

After walking around the various viewing points adjacent to these enormous stones, visit the authentic replicas of Neolithic Houses to see the tools and implements of everyday Neolithic life. A highlight is watching staff, and volunteers provide demonstrations of traditional skills from 4,500 years ago.

Although you can no longer go inside the circle to wander among the stones during normal opening hours, you can reserve special early morning or late evening access into the circle through English Heritage, which manages the site.

• Read More: From London to Stonehenge: Best Ways to Get There

Prison, palace, treasure vault, observatory, and menagerie: the Tower of London has done it all and it's one of the top attractions in London . Widely considered the most important building in England, there's enough to see and do at this World Heritage Site to keep visitors busy for hours.

The centerpiece of this Thames-side fortress is the White Tower . Built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, it's home to amazing exhibits, such as Line of Kings. The world's oldest visitor attraction , the collection was established in 1652 with a remarkable display of royal armor.

Other highlights include the impressive Crown Jewels exhibition, classic Yeoman Warder Tours, the Royal Mint, and exhibits and displays regarding prisoners and executions. All told, the Tower of London covers some 18 acres, so there's a great deal of exploring to do.

If you're traveling with children, be sure to check for special events for kids. These include a fun "Knights School" and other immersive programs that provide a fun insight into the castle's history.

• Read More: Visiting the Tower of London: Top Attractions, Tips & Tours

If you only have time to visit one of the nicest small cities in England , you couldn't do much better than Bath. This remarkably beautiful city in Somerset boasts more fantastic tourist attractions than you could hope to visit in a day.

While most famous for the magnificent 2,000-year-old Roman Baths built around the city's rejuvenating hot springs, it's equally well known for its honey-colored Georgian Townhouses , such as those located on Royal Crescent. One of them, #1 Royal Crescent, is open to the public and offers a fascinating look at life in Bath during the Georgian period. Some 500 of the city's buildings are considered of historical or architectural importance, a fact that has resulted in the entire city being granted World Heritage status.

Among the most interesting to visit today are the Holborne Museum with its large collections of artworks, silver, and period furniture; the famous Assembly Rooms, star of countless period dramas on TV and home to the interesting Fashion Museum ; and the Jane Austen Centre and its neighbor Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein, which tell the stories of two of Bath's most famous residents.

Bath also makes an ideal location from which to explore some of England's most stunning countryside, including the Avon Valley, the Mendip Hills, the Cotswolds, and countless other fantastic Somerset landmarks.

With collections of antiquities that are among the world's finest, a visit to the British Museum is undoubtedly one of the top free things to do in London . This superb museum holds more than 13 million artifacts from Assyria, Babylonia, Egypt, Greece, the Roman Empire, China, and Europe. The most famous ancient artifacts are the Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon in Athens, as well as the famous Rosetta Stone .

But there are many other outstanding pieces on show here that help make this one of the best places to visit in London. The Ancient Egyptian collection is the largest outside of Cairo, and the hoard of Roman silver dating from the fourth century known as the Mildenhall Treasure, unearthed in Suffolk in 1942, is nothing short of spectacular.

If you've got time, be sure to look into joining a guided tour or participate in a workshop or lecture. Fun private after-hour tours are also available. Dining and shopping opportunities are also located on-site.

Address: Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London, England

Official site: www.britishmuseum.org

Magnificent York Minster is second in importance in the Church of England only to the cathedral at Canterbury. It stands in the center of the historic city of York, surrounded by half-timbered homes and shops, medieval guildhalls, and churches.

In turn, York's romantic streets are surrounded by three miles of magnificent town walls that you can walk atop for spectacular views over the city and its surroundings. While here, visit the National Railway Museum , one of England's most visited tourist attractions.

York is also a good base from which to explore northeast England, in particular the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. Elsewhere in this corner of the country, you'll find some of England's most beautiful historic towns and cities, including Durham , famous for its castle and cathedral, and Beverley , which also boasts an attractive minster.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England

England is a country that's deeply rooted in tradition, history, pageantry, and pomp. Little surprise, then, that some of the biggest draws for tourists here revolve around the Royal Family, who have played an important role in shaping the country, along with many other parts of the world, for centuries.

If you've only got time to squeeze in one royal attraction, make it Windsor Castle. An easy 40-minute train ride from Central London, Windsor Castle is famous as one of the Royal Family's official residences, and throws its doors open to visitors regularly when the King is away.

And it's rich in history, able to trace its roots all the way back to the 11th century, when a triumphant William the Conqueror had a fortress erected on this very spot. Highlights of a visit to Windsor Castle include the castle's chapel, the State Apartments, as well as the magnificent Queen's Gallery.

And bring your walking shoes. The grounds are huge, stretching for some six miles around the castle and providing some of the best selfie opportunities anywhere with this historic building as a backdrop.

Address: Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire, England

Located in Upton in Cheshire, just over a mile north of Chester city center, Chester Zoo is England's most visited attraction outside of London and is one of the best places to visit in England for families.

The more than 11,000 animals living in this 125-acre site represent about 400 different species. But the zoo's appeal reaches beyond just animal lovers, with prizewinning landscaped gardens also available for visitors to enjoy.

You can tour these extensive grounds on the zoo's monorail system to reach highlights that include Chimpanzee Island, a penguin pool, and Europe's largest tropical house. There's plenty of other fun things to do at Chester Zoo, too, so expect to easily spend a day enjoying this top-rated tourist attraction.

While in Chester, take time to walk its old city walls , the best preserved of their kind in Britain. You should also spend time exploring Chester's other distinctive feature: its galleried walkways . Known as the "Chester' Rows," these impressive medieval architectural gems run the full length of stone and half-timbered buildings dating from the 14th century, and make for a unique and picturesque setting.

Chester Cathedral is also worth exploring if you can squeeze it into your travel itinerary. So, too, are Lower Bridge Street and Watergate Street, both of them home to numerous picturesque old buildings.

Address: Cedar House, Caughall Road, Chester, Cheshire, England

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chester

Covering some 900 square miles, Lake District National Park is a must-visit destination for travelers to England. With 12 of the country's largest lakes and more than 2,000 miles of rights of way waiting to be explored, there's little wonder the region continues to inspire, with its magnificent views and scenery straight out of a painting.

Other things to do include visiting the park's many fells, including Scafell Pike which at 3,210 feet is the highest mountain in England. Be sure to also spend time exploring some of the lovely little towns and villages dotted throughout the region, such as Grasmere.

Better still, hop aboard a tour boat excursion across Lake Windermere and Ullswater, and you'll be rewarded with some of the best scenery anywhere in the country.

Address: Murley Moss, Oxenholme Road, Kendal, Cumbria, England

Located in the heart of the historic city that bears its name, Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is home to the Archbishop of Canterbury and is the cradle of English Christianity.

It all started when St. Augustine converted the pagan Anglo Saxons here in 597 when he became the first bishop. Excellent guided tours of the cathedral are available, and for a truly memorable experience, consider booking an overnight stay in the grounds at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge .

But there's much more to this beautiful medieval city than just its cathedral. Canterbury is also a popular cultural and entertainment destination with great shopping, galleries, and cafés, as well as attractions such as those focused on Chaucer's medieval England and the city's Roman past.

Some of the other best places to visit in Canterbury include the Old City, the ruins of St. Augustine's Abbey, and medieval Beaney House.

Address: 11 The Precincts, Canterbury, Kent, England

• Read More: Murder & Majesty: Top Highlights of Canterbury Cathedral

As English as an afternoon tea, references to The Beatles are everywhere in Liverpool. Located in the northwest of the country, Liverpool is around three hours from London by rail and offers music fans plenty of opportunities to soak up some city sites , along with Fab-Four-related attractions.

Topping your list should be The Beatles Story. Located in the revitalized Albert Dock area of the city, this fun museum features enough facts and exhibits to keep the biggest fans busy for hours. Other related points of interest in Liverpool include visiting the famous Cavern Club, along with the real places about which they sang, including Strawberry Fields and Penny Lane.

Other must-dos include themed walks and guided tours, visiting the former homes of Paul McCartney and John Lennon, and getting in some souvenir shopping at The Beatles Shop, located just steps away from the Cavern Club.

The incredible Eden Project is a collection of unique artificial biomes containing an amazing collection of plants from around the world.

Located in a reclaimed quarry in Cornwall, this spectacular botanical gardens complex consists of huge domes that look rather like massive igloo-shaped greenhouses. Each of these impressive (and futuristic-looking) buildings houses thousands of different plant species in tropical and Mediterranean environments.

As well as these stunning displays of plant life, the Eden Project hosts numerous arts and music events year-round. If you're able to extend your visit, consider booking a stay at the on-site hostel, or enjoy a meal in one of its restaurants. Adventure activities such as ziplining and giant swings are also available.

Address: Bodelva, Par, Cornwall, England

The Cotswolds cover some 787 square miles and encompass parts of some of England's prettiest counties: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Somerset, Worcestershire, and Warwickshire. And all of it begs to be explored.

Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty due to its rare limestone grassland habitats and old-growth beech woodlands, the beauty of the Cotswolds has much to do with its quaint villages and towns , such as Castle Combe, Chipping Norton, and Tetbury.

Like so much of England, the Cotswolds is perfect to discover on foot. One of the best routes is along the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile footpath with spectacular views of the Severn Valley and the Vale of Evesham. This route runs the length of the Cotswolds, and can be picked up pretty much anywhere you visit.

Displaying one of the most comprehensive collections of paintings in the world, the National Gallery is London's second-most visited museum. The collections, which present an almost complete cross-section of European painting from 1260 until 1920 , are especially strong in the Dutch Masters and the Italian Schools of the 15th and 16th centuries.

In the Italian galleries, look for works by Fra Angelico, Giotto, Bellini, Botticelli, Correggio, Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese. It's also where you'll find Leonardo da Vinci's Madonna and Child with St. Anne and John the Baptist , Raphael's The Crucifixion , and The Entombment by Michelangelo.

In the German and Dutch galleries are works by Dürer, van Dyck, Frans Hals, Vermeer, and Rembrandt. Among artists from the 18th century through 1920, standout works are by Hogarth, Reynolds, Sargent, Gainsborough, Constable, and Turner. French works include those by Ingres, Delacroix, Daumier, Monet (including The Water-Lily Pond ), Manet, Degas, Renoir, and Cezanne.

With no-cost admission, a visit to the National Gallery is one of the top things to do in London for free. Guided tours and lunchtime lectures are also available for free and are highly recommended.

Address: Trafalgar Square, City of Westminster, London, England

If you're looking for a truly memorable English excursion for the whole family, and one that offers a fascinating insight into life in medieval times, you couldn't do much better than visit Warwick Castle.

Located in the beautiful city of Warwick on the River Avon, this impressive fortress has dominated the landscape and history of the region for more than 900 years. Today, it serves as a backdrop to medieval-themed events and reenactments, from jousting festivals to fairs and concerts.

Warwick is also great base from which to explore the Cotswolds, as well as nearby towns such as Stratford-upon-Avon , famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Bigger city destinations, including Liverpool , hometown of The Beatles, as well as Birmingham and Coventry , are an easy drive away.

Address: Stratford Road / West Street, Warwick, Warwickshire, England

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Warwick, England

When the Tate Modern opened its new 10-storey extension in June 2016, adding 60 percent more gallery space, visitor numbers jumped by almost one-fourth, making it one of England's most visited attractions.

Now regarded as among the world's best and certainly one of the largest, museums of modern and contemporary art, the Tate Modern shows a wide range of artistic expression, including paintings, works on paper, sculpture, films, performances, installations, and other forms of artistic expression.

Among the well-known artists represented here are Picasso, Rothko, Dali, Matisse, and Modigliani. Be sure to go to the viewing level for 360-degree views of the London skyline and the River Thames far below.

Other galleries under the Tate umbrella that you should consider visiting in England include Tate Britain (also in London), Tate Liverpool , and Tate St. Ives in Cornwall.

Address: Bankside, Southwark, London

Official site: www.tate.org.uk

Downstream from Tower Bridge, Greenwich is the London base of the Royal Navy and holds England's largest expanses of preserved historic architecture and parks. And although lovers of things maritime will certainly gravitate to Greenwich, there's a lot more there than just ships and boats here.

The highlight for most visitors is the Cutty Sark , the last surviving of the 19th-century clippers from the lucrative tea trade between Britain and China. Built in 1869, the Cutty Sark was one of the finest and fastest ships of its day, and you can board it to explore the clipper, from its figure head to the sailors' quarters below decks. For a special treat, book an afternoon tea overlooking the ship.

At the Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre , exhibits showcase more than 500 years of maritime history. In Queen's House , the National Maritime Museum is the largest of its kind in the world, featuring the Royal Navy from Tudor times to the Napoleonic Wars.

Greenwich Park , dating from the 15th century and the oldest of London's eight Royal Parks, is filled with beautiful gardens and walking paths, and here you'll find the Old Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian Line , marked by a steel rod in the floor of the Meridian Building. This is the zero meridian of longitude, dividing the world into eastern and western halves; you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere.

If you're hungry, add a great English breakfast from Heap's Sausage Cafe to your list of things to do in Greenwich.

Address: King William Walk, Greenwich, London, England

Official site: www.rmg.co.uk

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in London's Greenwich & Docklands Districts

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Plan a City Fix: After touring the best places to visit in London, you may want to see more of England's great cities. The largest of these, including Manchester , Liverpool , Birmingham , and Bristol , are all easy to reach by train. From the latter, you can easily nip over into wonderful Wales to visit its lively capital of Cardiff .

Beyond Borders: If you're visiting the popular attractions in Chester , cross into North Wales and perhaps on to Snowdonia National Park . North of England is Bonnie Scotland, with its glorious highlands and art-rich cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh . With the "Chunnel" speeding up crossing the English Channel by the EuroStar, you can be in the French capital of Paris in only 2.5 hours.

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15 most beautiful places in England for your next staycation

From meandering rivers and canals with motionless herons and barely moving barges to cathedral cities with ancient colleges and professors on bicycles, england is a country that delights at every turn.

T he quintessential English landscape comes in many different forms. Inland, it’s a confection of church spires and misty meadows, of crenellated manor houses with gorgeous gardens, and handsome Georgian villages trellised with roses. This is a landscape threaded by bucolic rivers lined with oak and willow, where rollercoaster dales are stitched with drystone walls. Along the coast, it’s lined by a mix of snaggle-toothed headlands and golden beaches, with creeks and estuaries that harbour old-fashioned resorts and fishing villages. And sitting offshore is a selection of islands, each of them distinctively different. Yet all of this is England — a place that has something for everyone. So here is our selection of the country’s most beautiful places to visit.

Main photo: Romney Marsh (Alamy)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

This ancient Roman city, encircled by its original walls, has a history that stretches back nearly 2,000 years. Its magnificent cathedral (aka “Minster”) has a fascinating story of restoration from a huge fire way back in 1984. Downtown, the city’s almost traffic-free centre is a lacework of cobbled medieval alleyways — the Shambles — where overhanging ancient mansions seem to whisper sweet nothings to each other. Wonky beams and sloping floors characterise most interiors, with tea and cake around every corner, particularly at the much-loved Bettys Café Tea Rooms. York is the home of Rowntree’s, the chocolate manufacturer, so there’s a chocolate museum and independent chocolatiers all over town.

• Best hotels in York • Best boutique hotels in York • Bets things to do in York

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2. holy island, northumberland.

The Northumberland coastline is a string of blemish-free sandy beaches interrupted by dramatic castles and old fishing villages. Sitting just offshore is the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, a mystical place reachable by a causeway that is only driveable (or walkable) at certain stages of the tide. On the island there’s a ruined priory, a 16th-century castle on a rock, and a real sense of peace among birdsong and woodsmoke. The island’s name dates back to the time when this was an early outpost of Christianity, and whether you’re a believer or not, it remains a place of serenity and contemplation, which puts daily life into perspective.

3. South Downs and the Seven Sisters

The grass-topped wave of hills of the Sussex Weald form the backbone of the South Downs, Britain’s newest national park. Up here are rollercoaster, sheep-grazed grasslands mixed with oak coppice and wildlife-rich heathland. These are chalk hills, although they only really show their colours where the downlands meet the sea, at the searingly white Seven Sisters cliffs. Striding along the cliff edge here, from Eastbourne to Seaford via Beachy Head and the beach at Cuckmere Haven, is one of England’s favourite coastal walks.

• The White Horse, Graffam, hotel review • The Pig in the South Downs hotel review

4. The North York Moors, Yorkshire

This national park with a coastline comes with all the credentials: Yorkshire ’s wild and wonderful rolling hills, infiltrated by pastoral valleys such as that at Rosedale, complete with old mine workings on the valley sides. A heritage steam railway clambers over the hills from Pickering to Grosmont, wheezing and blowing as it goes. Whitby is a lively coastal resort, renowned for its fish and chips, Dracula connections and ruined abbey. And then there’s the coastal path that struggles from sheltered bays to wild headlands, with spectacular views.

• Best hotels in Yorkshire

5. Grasmere and Ambleside, Cumbria

These two towns encapsulate so much that is great about the Lake District . Grasmere, with its bijou spangle of water, is all genteel sumptuousness, with boutique shopping, elegant eating and literary visits to Wordsworth’s cottage. More businesslike Ambleside, with its adventure outfitters, sits at the north end of boat-rich Windermere, the busiest and biggest of the English lakes. A short, steep climb up from here through rocky knolls to Loughrigg Fell grants an eyeful of everything, with stunning views of the serpentine length of Windermere and the Langdale Pikes.

• Best spa hotels in the Lake District • Best dog-friendly hotels in the Lake District • Best things to do in the Lake District • Best hotels in the Lake District

6. Chatsworth and Haddon, Derbyshire

England’s aristocratic country houses range across a kaleidoscope of styles and periods. The Duke of Devonshire’s Chatsworth House, for example, dominating its own river valley within the Peak District , is a sumptuous, family-owned property making the most of its mainly 18th-century assets with tours, trails and events. Meanwhile, a couple of valleys away, you can step back a few centuries into 13th-century Haddon Hall, one of the most perfectly preserved medieval properties in the UK, with its banqueting hall, Tudor painted ceilings and Elizabethan walled gardens.

• Best hotels in the Peak District

7. Bath, Somerset

A place of Roman baths and Georgian crescents, Bath sits cupped in hills in its own little world, one redolent of ball gowns and gossiping aristocracy, as observed by Jane Austen. The creamy-gold Bath stone and honeycomb of Palladian-influenced terracing, rising in curving ripples up the hillsides, are what makes the city so visually appealing. Somehow a river and a canal thread through, and at the heart of the city is the original thermal bath built by the Romans around AD75, with steam still rising from the hot spring.

• Best things to do in Bath • Best hotels in Bath

8. Cotswold villages, Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire

Manor houses, babbling brooks and hamlets of honey-coloured stone. Tea-rooms galore, artisan delicatessens, ancient churches and Bibury, the village that the artist William Morris described as “the most beautiful in England”. This is the Cotswolds . Mind you, Bourton-on-the-Water must be a challenger for the “most beautiful” title, too. Here the River Windrush flows across a generous green, spanned by footbridges and surrounded by handsome inns. Weeping willows trail their tresses in the water, ducks wait for chips and there’s a toasted teacake around every corner.

• Best hotels in the Cotswolds • Best spa hotels in the Cotswolds • Best dog-friendly hotels in the Cotswolds

9. Jurassic Coast, Dorset and Devon

This Unesco-recognised stretch of southern coastline starts at the eastern end, at the quirky resort of Swanage in Dorset , where the pillars of Old Harry Rocks overlook Poole Harbour. From here it reaches westwards, rounding wild St Aldhelms Head, stomping through fossil-rich Kimmeridge, to the almost perfect circle that is Lulworth Cove and the arch of Durdle Door. Then, from Weymouth , the Chesil shingle scythes westwards towards the cliffs of Charmouth and West Bay, so famous for their crumbliness and their fossil dinosaurs. The Regency resort of Lyme Regis, beyond, is where The French Lieutenant’s Woman was filmed.

• Best hotels in Dorset • Best beach hotels in the UK • Best hotels in Devon

10. Helford and Roseland, Cornwall

You don’t travel to Cornwall for the towns — unless they’re wedged up a creek or spilling into a bay. It’s the coast that counts, either the north for the wild and dramatic, or the south for the creeks and headlands. Both sides have beaches to be proud of, but for shelter and history seek out the south’s Helford River, the setting for Daphne du Maurier’s Frenchman’s Creek . East of Helford, the Roseland Peninsula begins at the posh fishing village of St Mawes. In this part of Cornwall, the spring gardens of Trelissick and Caerhays are ablaze with magnolias and camellias well before the rest of the country.

• Best beaches in Cornwall • Cornwall versus Devon: which is better? • Best hotels in Cornwall

11. Norfolk coast, Norfolk

North Norfolk is like a watercolour painting, where land, sea and sky seem to merge seamlessly into one another. Migrating wildfowl add their stitch to the skies overhead and seal colonies loll around on sandbanks like rolls of discarded carpet. Towns such as Burnham Market, with its art galleries and fine dining, are surprisingly posh — but then maybe that shouldn’t be a surprise, given that Holkham Hall, the residence of the Earl of Leicester, and Sandringham, the royal country retreat, are just inland.

• Best dog-friendly hotels in Norfolk • The Manor Coastal Hotel & Inn, Norfolk, review

12. Wye Valley, Herefordshire

Some say British tourism started back in 1745 on the languid, calm river at Ross-on-Wye, when the local rector took paying guests out for boat trips. Today a lot of the waterborne activity has dropped southwards to Symonds Yat, a mecca for kayakers and for walking its steep forested banks. Meanwhile in Ross, the venerable half-timbered frontages of the town stand back slightly uphill of the river, and it is mostly cyclists who follow the water, particularly its loveliest stretch up past Hole-in-the-Wall, burrowing through back roads towards Hereford.

• Best luxury places to stay in Herefordshire • Best Airbnbs in the UK

13. Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

The flat fens of Cambridgeshire seem an unlikely setting for a seat of learning, but the colleges and chapels of Cambridge inhabit their own mystical world, clustered along the banks of the somnolent River Cam. Unlike Oxford, which can be brash and busy, Cambridge is a place of robed figures emerging from ancient doorways and bumping away over cobbles on bicycles. To hire a punt and to float gently down the so-called Backs (the backs of many colleges) is to get a glimpse into a refined, timeless world.

• Best hotels in Cambridge • Best things to do in Cambridge

14. Rye and Romney Marshes, Kent and East Sussex

The medieval town of Rye was once one of the Cinque Ports — five defensive ports in Kent , Sussex and Essex mentioned in Magna Carta — and it seems to have barely changed, although the sea has since retreated. The town is a lacework of galleries, patisseries, wisteria and leaded windows. It stands proud above Romney’s former marshlands, now drained and striped with wheatfields. Beyond are the glorious beaches of Camber Sands and the surreal shingle shore of Dungeness, with its unique fishing fleet.

• Best spa hotels in Sussex • Best hotels in Sussex • Best luxury hotels in Sussex

15. Test Valley, Hampshire

A maze of intersecting country lanes and the gurgling gin-clear waters of some of the most expensive fishing river in England makes this an intoxicating slice of English countryside. Stretching roughly from the village of Hurstbourne Priors down to Romsey, this is a place to spot lazy trout and idyllic waterside mansions. A place to fossick out iconic pubs like the Mayfly or the Peat Spade, and historical buildings such as the National Trust’s Mottisfont Abbey, with its celebrated rose garden. Even Waitrose is here with its Leckford Estate, with 4,000 acres of farming, fishing and water gardens.

• Best hotels in Hampshire • Best UK destinations to visit • Best beaches in England • Places in the UK that look just like France

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Inspired to visit England but yet to book your trip? Here are the best places to stay from Cottages.com and Mr and Mrs Smith .

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15 Most Charming Small Towns In England

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on February 5, 2024

England is known the world over for looking like a Christmas card or something from The Hobbit. And it’s not a false image: you just have to look past the large towns and cities of the country to discover it. These are England’s small towns and villages.

You’ll find them neatly tucked away, on rugged cliffs, in rolling green hills, near forests, on moorland, with beaches, by rivers, and despite the weather you’ll find warmth – even if there’s no one around there is something about the quintessential English town that is friendly and homely.

Seeing a picturesque row of cottages is like getting a cosy hug from the countryside. Steeped in sometimes ancient history, and packed with sometimes ancient pubs, here is a rundown of the most charming small towns in England.

15. Southwold

Situated within Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Southwold is a lovely English seaside town comprising village greens, pebble-clad cottages and sandy beaches. Its 190-meter (620-foot) pier (built 1900) is a fantastic example of what the heyday of English seaside entertainment looked like; unlike others, thanks to the introduction of retro-style coin machine games, the English seaside holiday of yesteryear is alive and well on Southwold Pier.

Like most English towns it’s not without history: 6 18-pound cannons line the cliff, used during a battle against the Dutch in 1672. And George Orwell lived here during his thirties, when he wrote Burmese Days.

14. Bakewell

Stone buildings straight out of a storybook populate this northern town with a name that’s known by most in association with its most famous product: Bakewell pudding, a pastry casing with a bottom layer of jam and a frangipane filling.

Aside from food, and like many in England, the town is very old, dating from Anglo-Saxon times – the Grade I listed Bakewell Parish Church was founded in 920 AD. Located in the heart of the Derbyshire Dales, the surrounding area is filled with well-trod hiking trails.

13. Berwick-upon-Tweed

The most fought-over town in European history: it changed hands 14 times from England to Scotland between 1174 and 1482. Eventually England prevailed – though interestingly the local dialect shares similarities with Scots, and its football team is the only English side to play in the Scottish League.

Nowadays Berwick-upon-Tweed is much-visited for its highly visible history: medieval town walls, Elizabethan ramparts, 13th century castle ruins, its 17th century ‘Old Bridge’, town hall, Britain’s earliest army barracks, England’s northernmost hotel, among others. Now that’s a lot of history.

The earliest recorded permanent settlement dates back to 656 when a monastery was founded by King Oswy of Northumbria. The iconic ruins of the 14th century Whitby Abbey now stand in its place. It majorly inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula, partly set here, drawing tourists and goths alike – the Whitby Goth Festival is held in the town twice-yearly.

And as you look out to sea from these gothic stones of East Cliff you can think about fellow travellers like Captain James Cook and arctic explorer William Scoresby, who once called this historic fishing port home.

Ancient Rye is all cobbled streets and tumbledown rows of houses by the sea. Originally part of the Cinque Ports Confederation, five strategic towns important for trade and military purposes in medieval times, today Rye is practically a living museum.

Rye Castle, popularly known as Ypres Tower, was built in 1249 by Henry III to protect against frequent raids by the French; even older, the Norman-era St. Mary’s Church looks over the town. Rye is also just a few minutes away from one of England’s most famous beaches, Camber Sands, a two-mile-long playground for kitesurfers and beachlovers.

10. Tintagel

This Cornish town is world renowned for being the (alleged) location of King Arthur’s stronghold: Tintagel Castle. The castle ruins are a destination in themselves, set just outside town on a craggy collection of typically Cornish cliffs; wandering around this cinematic landscape with the legend – or history? – of King Arthur in mind is simply dreamy.

Back up the hill in town is a famous fudge shop, the Old Post Office – an exquisite 14th century building, and more Cornish pasties, fish & chips shops and pubs than you would think necessary in such a tiny town.

9. Lynton and Lynmouth

It’s two-for-one here with Lynton looking down on the harbour village of Lynmouth. Set in dramatic Exmoor, nearby is the Valley of the Rocks, a twisting landscape of ancient geology, and Glen Lyn Gorge, a magical slice of nature which is like walking through a fantasy novel. The two are linked by Lynmouth Cliff Railway, a water-powered funicular opened in 1890, which is a fun way to get your fill of the rugged North Devon coastline below.

8. Shaftesbury

This Dorset town is a definite charmer. One of its streets, Gold Hill, was featured in the iconic “Boy on Bike” TV advert directed by Ridley Scott for Hovis (a brand of bread in the UK) and you can see why: the steep, cobbled street is lined with rustic cottages on a backdrop of lush English countryside.

It has been dubbed “one of the most romantic sights in England.” Adjacent to this picturesque street are the ruins of Shaftesbury Abbey, built in 888 AD by King Alfred.

7. Upper and Lower Slaughter

The name has nothing to do with killing! Slohtre is Old English for “muddy place” – though nothing is further from the truth today. These tiny twin towns are the epitome of pastoral, chocolate-box Cotswolds beauty. A walk along the River Eye that links the two is a stroll through idyllic riverside scenes, and goes past a 14th century building aptly named The Old Mill.

Narrow lanes, fresh seafood, pubs galore, Cornish pasties and cream tea all add up to make this town on the north Cornwall coast a must-visit destination. When you’re not wandering around with an ice cream or sitting on one of the town’s two beaches, you might want to check out the Tate St Ives, a comprehensive art gallery.

Art plays a huge part in St Ives, and everyone from casual visitor to art buff will take an interest in the selection of art on sale in the town’s varied art galleries, ranging from the whole interiors of old churches to rooms in centuries-old, wood-beam houses.

5. Castle Combe

The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has a lot to answer for when it comes to beautiful English towns to match. Castle Combe is one of them. Claiming to be “the prettiest English town,” the rest of the world has listened: various movies and TV series have been filmed here, including Steven Spielberg’s War Horse and Downton Abbey.

Historical as ever, the imposing 15th century St Andrew’s Church reflects the former prosperity of the Cotswolds’ textile industry. There’s even some historical five-star accommodation: the 14th century Manor House Hotel.

4. Lavenham

Medieval buildings lean higgledy-piggledy in Lavenham like something from another time. In the 15th and 16th centuries the town was famous for its wool, and one of the richest settlements in Britain because of it, but fell into decline with cheaper exports from Europe.

Now it’s like walking through a fairytale: hundreds of half-timbered buildings spell out the past, with a contemporary infusion of eateries and places to stay. You can even sip tea in the Tudor tea-room at the Lavenham Guildhall, one of the finest examples of Lavenham’s heyday.

Yes, in Devon there is a town called Beer – unfortunately it’s named after Old English word bearu, meaning grove. Nevertheless there’s a disproportionate amount of pubs in this seaside town, all serving excellent local ales as well as the local speciality of crab. Steeped in tales of smuggling, the meandering hike down Hooken Cliffs to the west of town is great for imagining yourself as a smuggler of old.

Just out of town are the 2,000-year-old Beer Quarry Caves, famous for its ‘beer stone’ – fine-textured limestone that was used in Westminster Abbey, among other places. Sitting on Beer’s pebble beach looking out to sea with an ice cream after a pub lunch is a fine example of English summer holidays.

2. Hawkshead

Carefully preserved Hawkshead was once home to William Wordsworth, who described it in his poem The Prelude. Beatrix Potter also lived here. Her former residence now open to the public – a great opportunity to feel snug inside a real English cottage.

Hawkshead is a tourist mecca not only for its whitewashed cottages, old pubs and cobbled streets, but also for its location: the Lake District. A beautiful English town famous for its lakes, fells and forests, hiking in English countryside is supremely idyllic here.

Quintessential English towns means bucolic scenes of tiny cottages in rolling green hills. That is the essence of Bibury. Arlington Row, a particularly picturesque section of protected houses in the town, features on the inside cover of all UK passports.

Strolling around Bibury and falling in love with the place is the main past-time here, a center for countryside walks and tearooms. Located in the Cotswolds, a region renowned for quaint towns and lovely countryside, it doesn’t get more charming than this quiet slice of pastoral England.

Map of Small Towns in England

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October 29, 2018 at 11:36 am

I was born and raised in Fairford one of the Cotswold villages, still miss it, the area is beyond beautiful

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17 Beautiful Towns In The UK To Visit

Okay, just putting it out there, us Brits have some great totally epic places to visit; with some of the most beautiful towns in the UK dotted all across the country. 

You see, what’s best about the UK is that we have a whole heap of diverse little towns and pretty villages spread across the country; each with their own charm.

I mean, where else can you explore bits of Scotland , England , Wales and Northern Ireland on one epic trip.

With any trip to the UK, I always say it best to explore the big-hitting places such as; London , Edinburgh or York . Then, afterwards, take a trip to some of the more regional and totally beautiful towns in the UK, too.

Take a look at these beautiful towns in the UK to visit this year. Have the best trip. 

1.) Portmeirion

I know I bang on about Portmeirion lots, but honestly, it’s a really special place.

Perched on the Welsh coastline, this gorgeous Italian-esque place is easily one of the most beautiful towns in the UK.

I promise you’ll literally feel like you’ve found a slice of Italy nestled within the hills of Wales.

It really is a special place.

Visiting Wales? Check out the top places to see

Resting within the beautiful Cotswolds , Bibury is a lovely little town that’s possibly home to (arguably) the most quaint street in the UK, Arlington Row .

Think, crooked little cottages, smoking chimneys and cosy little pubs.

Pop over to the nearby town of Cirencester for a tasty bite at The Falcon. The prices are pretty good and the food is one of the best in the region.

Read more: How to visit Bibury, Cotswold

3.) Aberaeron

Aberaeron is one little town that sits on the ancient West Wales coastline.

This historic, Welsh, fishing town is a great little spot and sees all the colourful seaside houses, gorge on some good-old fish and chips or head to the award-winning Harbourmaster.

They serve some of the tastiest locally-sourced food in West Wales .

It really is one of the beautiful towns in the UK to explore. Just make sure to explore some of that gorgeous Cambrian coastline, too. 

Read more: Best places in Wales to visit

4.) Applecross

Applecross is a tiny little place that is so gorgeous. We spent a whole day exploring the area and I just know you’ll love it.

The best thing about this Scottish Highlands fishing town is it’s great food and amazing views, especially on the drive where you’ll get to see Bealach na Ba Viewpoint and some of the prettiest, white-sandy beaches in Scotland.

Read more on visiting Applecross

5.) Knaresborough

Not too far from Harrogate is the gorgeous Yorkshire town of Knaresborough.

Every Wednesday, the town is crammed with lots of little stalls and vendors that sell the tastiest local treats.

Don’t forget to visit Knaresborough Castle, too. It really is one of the beautiful towns in the UK to explore when in the north of England .

Read more: Best places in the north of England

Situated in Wiltshire , Lacock is a village that’s a total throwback to times gone by.

Make sure to visit Lacock Abbey, pop into St Cyriac’s Church and shop for antiques in one of the many cute stores.

Best of all, stop at one of the tea rooms for some freshly baked scones, lashings of butter, jam and clotted cream. They’re so dreamy and these alone make it one of the most beautiful towns in the UK for an old-English town. 

Read more on visiting Lacock

7.) Cullen Bay

On the banks of Moray Firth, Cullen is a sleepy little place with a stunning beach. Findlater Castle is one highlight to see when you’re here.

Make sure to try Cullen Skink (a potato and salmon soup). It’s delicious.

Read more: Best day trips in England

8.) Robin Hood’s Bay

Possibly one of the prettiest little villages in all of Yorkshire, Robin Hood’s Bay is an old, smugglers town where time seems to have stood still.

Wander through the tiny cobbled streets, stop off at the Old Post Office for some grub and learn more about the tunnels that are hidden under the villages.

The townsfolk used to smuggle in all their brandy, whisky and contraband through these.

Read more: Visiting Robin Hood’s Bay, here

9.) Shaftesbury

Nestled within the Dorset countryside, Shaftesbury is s tannin place to visit.

About 30 Km (22 miles) from Salisbury, this market-town is perfect for a day trip in England to see one of the most beautiful towns in the UK. 

Make sure to visit the Gold Hill Museum, go up to Castle Hill and head for food at The Salt Cellar.

They serve some proper meaty pies and homemade soups. Perfect for a chilly day.

10.) Malton

Another Yorkshire gem is the market town of Malton .

If you’ve ever been to Yorkshire, you’ll know there’s a real emphasis on good, local food… and we’re not just talking pork pies of Yorkshire puds.

Over the last 10 years, or so, Malton has become a proper foody capital of Yorkshire.

After you arrive, make sure to wander the many market stalls and local traders that have everything from homemade gelato, pastries, micro-breweries and cakes galore.

It’s only about 30 minutes from the city of York and a must-visit if you’re a total foodie.

Read more on visiting Malton

11.) Portree Isle of Skye

Technically, the largest of the towns on the Isle of Skye – this Scottish gem is a lovely find. It’s the perfect place to base yourself for a bigger exploration of Skye.

Make sure you see the Old Man of Storr, the stunning beauty of Quaraing and Kilt Rock – all of which are located on the island.

For some tasty Scottish grub, head over to Sea Breezes who serve hand-picked scallops right from the shore.

Read more: Best things to do on the Isle of Skye

Imagine such a small town having such a grand castle, possibly one of the Grandest castles in Wales .

Well, Conwy has just that. Make sure to head inside Conwy Castle for a little (or big) slice of history, visit Plas Mawr and gorge on the best brunch at Amelies Restaurant.

It’s one of the beautiful towns in the UK, especially for its history.

Read more: Best castles in Wales

13.) Hathersage

Deep within the Peak District is the gorgeous little village of Hathersage. Around a 25 minute drive from Sheffield, it’s a great little spot to see.

Make sure to hop over to the nearby Stanage Edge, see Little John’s Grave and grab a local brew at The Scotsman’s Pack Bar.

14.) Brixham

A little gem of a village, Brixham is becoming even more popular in recent years. 

Head for a stroll around the historic harbour, on the English Rivera,   pop over to Berry Head and drink up at The Lusty Wench who sources seafood right from the harbour.

15.) Mevagissey

The Cornish beauty of Mevagissey was once a thriving fishing village. Nowadays, fishing still happens, just on a smaller scale.   The town itself has a huge seafaring history and they still make smaller boats in the town today.

Pop on the Fowey to Mevagissey Ferry, too. You might even spot the local pods of dolphins. It’s one of the beautiful towns in the UK you cant miss when in the region.

Read more: Best things to do in Cornwall

16.) Rathlin Island

Rathlin Island is one of Northern Ireland’s gorgeous places to visit. It’s around 5-6 miles off the coastline of Ireland and a stunning spot to visit.

Make sure to visit between April-July, when the puffins come here. The ferry runs from Ballycastle and is perfect on a summers day.

Read more: Best things to see in Northern Ireland

17.) Glenarm Village

Perched in County Antrim, Glenarm is a lovely spot to visit in Northern Ireland .

You’ve got to head into Glenarm Castle which dates back centuries. Also, make sure to wander the hiking and walking routes that surround the area. You’ll love it.

It’s one of the most beautiful towns in the UK to explore.

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The 20 coolest, prettiest and quirkiest seaside towns in the UK

After a good dose of sun, sand and sea air? Here’s our pick of the best seaside towns in the UK right now

The UK really does boast quite a lot of coastline – we’re an island, after all – and seeing every little lighthouse, cliff collection, sweeping bay and dramatic headland would be no walk on the beach . That’s not even all our coasts have to offer. 

Our shores are decorated with a vast number of marvellous coastal settlements, from the characterful fishing villages of Wales  and the upmarket enclaves of Cornwall to the pulsing party towns of the Sussex coast. Leave those clichés of soggy chips, rainy weather and nasty seagulls at home – our handpicked roundup of the country’s coolest and prettiest seaside towns includes knock-out restaurants and cutting-edge museums, as well as plenty of sandy walks for the sunniest days of the year. Without further ado, here are the UK’s very best seaside towns.

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Best seaside towns in the UK

1.  Brighton, East Sussex

What’s the vibe?  It’s does camp, it does quaint, it does everything in between

Why go?   Brighton’s rep as a bit of a party down is by no means unfounded. The city is a pulsing magnet for hen and stag weekends, students and old hippy rockers thanks to its packed roster of parties throughout this summer months, and its  pubs  are packed all year round, too. However, nightlife is far from the only thing this place has to offer. Yes, the beach is pebbly, and while that might be off-putting for the dainty-footed among us, I  promise  it grows on you – you can go for a dip and then move on with your day, no endless sand removal needed.

Don’t miss   the North Laine . Brighton’s artsiest patch comprises a smattering of coffee shops, pubs, actually good vintage shopping and locally-owned boutiques, enough to keep you occupied all afternoon.

2.  North Berwick

What’s the vibe?  Windswept indie shops and an up-and-coming arts scene

Why go?  A swift 30 minutes train journey from Edinburgh city centre, it's easy to see why North Berwick was recently crowned one of the best places to live in the country by the Sunday Times. But it's not too shabby a place to visit, either – as a day trip from the Scottish capital or for a longer, slower break. Not only are the beaches bliss – vast stretches of sand are dotted with glistening rock pools and happy dogs let off the lead – the high street boasts a number of charming cafés, gift shops, art galleries and eateries.  Don't miss Orange Moon , a record store in the upstairs of Steampunk Coffee , and the Scottish Seabird Centre, where you can hop on a tour to Bass Rock to visit a thriving gannet colony.

Don’t miss   The Fringe by the Sea – a selection of top-class theatre, music and comedy shows in the first week of August as part of the annual Edinburgh festival.

3.  Deal, Kent

What’s the vibe? Proper seaside town with a creative community and really great food. 

Why go? It’s smaller and less well known than its ever-popular Kentish neighbours Margate and Whitstable , but overlooking little Deal would be a mistake. Stretching along the seafront and an enormous pebble beach, Deal is a gem. It’s dotted with delicious places to eat, buzzy places to drink and gorgeous places to look at or buy beautiful things. Try 81 Beach Street , wine bar Le Pinardier and Smugglers Records for starters. 

Don’t miss A slap-up Sunday lunch in The Rose ’s seriously stylish dining room. 

4.  Hunstanton, Norfolk

What’s the vibe? Striped cliffs and stonking sunsets.  

Why go? With the unusual stripy cliffs behind and The Wash in front, visitors to Hunstanton are in the unique position of being in the only spot in east England from where you can see the sun both rise and set. While away the hours in between by admiring Hunstanton’s Heritage Gardens – in the summer months you can follow a self-guided Horticultural Trail, look out for markets and events on the green, pick up a souvenir from Britain’s largest joke shop, explore Old Hunstanton’s stone cottages and refuel at The Neptune , a brilliant local pub.

Don’t miss Follow the Norfolk Coast Path, a trail from Hunstanton to Sea Palling that hugs the shoreline, to take in the dramatic beauty of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

5.  St Ives, Cornwall

What's the vibe? A fishing town with serious artistic clout.

Why go? Three reasons: seafood, art and surfing. St Ives was and is a working fishing village, and even though most of its whitewashed cottages are now holiday rentals, the seafood here is still the good stuff – especially when served about as close to the sea as you can get while staying dry, at the swish cafés on Porthminster and Porthmeor beaches. In the ’20s and ’30s, the fishermen were joined by artists and potters like Barbara Hepworth, Bernard Leach and even colourful-squares guy Piet Mondrian. There are still plenty of artists here, and loads of places to chin-stroke, including Tate St Ives , Hepworth’s house and sculpture garden and tucked-away gallery-shop St Ives Ceramics . And more recently, St Ives has become a surf town, with rad dudes of all genders getting salty all year round in its many piratical-looking coves.

Don't miss The atmospheric fishermen’s graveyard on Barnoon Hill, including the tomb of salty sea dog and self-taught artist Alfred Wallis.

6.  Nefyn, Gwynedd

What’s the vibe?  Extreme isolation. Surprisingly blue waters.

Why go?   The Llŷn Peninsula is where you go in Wales if you really want to get away from it all. But if you don’t want to do away with human company altogether, we’d suggest staying in Nefyn: a small town and community that stretches out to nearby Edern and Morfa Nefyn. The main draw here is the Morfa beach – a sandy stretch complete with pretty pub and whitewashed cottages. The town itself is a brilliant base for hikers with their sights set on nearby Snowdonia.

Don’t miss   A trek up to the Tre’r Ceiri hillfort, which looms 450 metres above sea level on the Yr Eifl hills. It’s one of the best-preserved Iron Age settlements in the UK.

7.  Dartmouth, Devon

What’s the vibe?  Exquisite seafood and excellent walking opps.

Why go?   Okay, so it’s technically not actually a seaside town – rather a town on the banks of the River Dart, a couple of miles from the sea. But Dartmouth comes with everything you could want in a trip to the coast. There are historic pubs, and there are walking trails straight out to the sea. There are boat trips galore, and there are crabbers crabbing away in the harbour daily. In Mitch Tonks, the town also has a veritable super-chef whose restaurants here serve some of the country’s finest seafood. It’s a taste of the Med, in a thoroughly British setting.   Don’t miss The Seahorse , Tonks’s snazziest restaurant, right on the waterfront. One day you might get cuttlefish risotto, another fritto misto with aioli. It’s all ridiculously delicious.

8.  Whitby, Yorkshire

What’s the vibe? A trad Yorkshire fishing town that exudes more gothic splendour than David Bowie in The Hunger .

Why go? Whitby  is not your average seaside spot. While it has a dramatic coastline, soft stretches of caramel sand, top-notch fish and chips and a quaint harbour, it’s all overlooked by a cliff-top graveyard and Whitby Abbey , a 1,360-year-old ruin that inspired Bram Stoker’s vampire-filled novel ‘ Dracula’ . It has even more goth credentials as the site of the bi-annual Whitby Goth Weekend festival , when the place is descended on by black-clad music fans, and as the home of Whitby Jet: a gemstone made from fossilised wood known for the intensity of its blackness. If you’re after an eccentric day out, there’s plenty to sink your teeth into here. Don’t miss Ask any local where you’ll find the best fish and chips and they’ll say Magpie Café : queues snake down the pavement.

9.  Lymington, Hampshire

What’s the vibe? A Georgian sailing town with proper salty pubs.

Why go? Lymington’s a refined seaside town with postcard-perfect high streets – but the boat-filled harbour is the main attraction. Get out on the water with one of the town’s sailing experiences, join a chartered fishing excursion or just watch the world go by with a pint from one of the wonky-fronted old pubs. 

Don’t miss The annual Lymington Seafood Festival in August, when jazz and blues meet fresh seafood cooked up by top chefs.

10.  Dungeness, Kent

What’s the vibe? Shingle strolls, bird-watching and otherworldly desert surroundings.

Why go? There’s a vague apocalyptic feel about Dungeness, a little fishing town at the southernmost point of Kent . Its wild landscape of stark, shingle desert headland is overlooked by the imposing Dungeness Nuclear Power Station. But, thanks to this, there is something uniquely beautiful about the place, with its lighthouses, abandoned fishing boats, wooden cabins and thriving wildlife. Follow the two-mile trail around RSPB Dungeness to spot rare seabirds. Refuel at the famous Snack Shack : they’ll serve you their catch of the day in a warm bun. 

Don’t miss Get a look at the iconic coal-black Prospect Cottage , former home to film director Derek Jarman, and its magical shingle garden.

11.  Lyme Regis, Dorset

What’s the vibe?  Old stuff and  really  old stuff.

Why go?  Lyme has all the cute fisherman’s cottages, sandy beaches, antiques emporiums and pasty shops that you could want in a West Country seaside escape. But it’s also got something a little more unusual: gajillions of years’ worth of fossil history. If you’ve seen the movie Ammonite , you’ll know that this was once the hunting ground of teenage Regency fossil-finder extraordinaire, Mary Anning. Accordingly, there’s not just history but  pre history on display around town, extending from the abundant fossil shops to the nifty ammonite-shaped street lamps along the seafront. Fossils still turn up here on the beaches every day, and although you probably won’t find a whole ichthyosaur skeleton while out for a paddle, there’s no harm in trying.

Don’t miss  A stroll along The Cobb, Lyme’s historic harbour wall – it had a starring role in novels by Jane Austen and John Fowles, and there’s even a little aquarium at the end. 

12.  Tobermory, Isle of Mull

What’s the vibe? A Hebridean fishing village in Farrow & Ball colours.

Why go? Anyone who happened to watch a lot of British kids’ TV in the early noughties will recognise Tobermory’s harbourfront as the setting of CBeebies hit ‘Balamory’. Aside from its pre-school legacy, this tiny town has huge charm, a local puffin population and a rich history of producing magical malt whiskies. Once you’ve got an eyeful of the famous rainbow cottages by the harbour, stroll out to the pretty lighthouse at Rubha nan Gall, the megalithic Standing Stones at Baliscate or head out on a boat trip from the harbour to spot minke whales and basking sharks. When it comes to trad Scottish music, Tobar – Mull’s art centre – puts on good knees-up. Be sure to pick up a fish supper beforehand from the famous van on the pier.

Don’t miss A chance to sip the proper stuff on a tour of the Tobermory Distillery .

13.  Tynemouth, Tyne & Wear

What’s the vibe? Britain’s coolest seaside town? Could be.

Why go? Eight miles outside of Newcastle , Tynemouth manages to perfectly merge artisan city cool and wholesome coastal pursuits into the perfect salty, seaside package. Its three white sandy beaches are overlooked by a ruined priory and castle; a working lighthouse stands at the tip of its craggy headland; and it has a period high street crammed with traditional pubs and fish and chip shops. Alongside all this, however, you’ll find tooth-achingly cool small-batch artisan roasteries like Tynemouth Coffee Company , forward-thinking restaurants, quirky bars and craft beer spots, a thriving surfing community and designer-maker emporiums.  

Don’t miss Riley’s Fish Shack : a shipping container restaurant that cooks up Michelin star-worthy seafood right next to the beach.

14.  Crosby, Merseyside

What’s the vibe? Vast sands and sculptural surprises. 

Why go? Near   Liverpool in the suburbs of Merseyside, Crosby might look like just another English market town – apart from the fact it’s bordered by rolling sand dunes and fast-changing tides that draw out to reveal a boundless stretch of sandy beach. Carry on up the coast to find Hightown and its prehistoric submerged forest, and Formby National Trust coastal reserve , home to red squirrels and preserved neolithic footprints. 

Don’t miss The main draw here is ‘Another Place’:  artist Antony Gormley’s ambitious sculpture project of 100 lifesize cast-iron figures dotted over a two-mile stretch of the beach. Grab a sandwich and watch the figures as they’re revealed and submerged by the tides.

15.  Falmouth, Cornwall

What’s the vibe? A cosmopolitan university town with Blue Flag beaches and plenty of Cornish charm.

Why go? While Cornish seaside towns usually tend towards old-fashioned bucket-and-spade charm or cutesy  chic, Falmouth has a more youthful, cosmopolitan air, partly thanks to University College Falmouth, which specialises in arts, design and media. The hip bars and cafés, independent shops along the charismatic old high street, charming restaurants and award-winning Falmouth Art Gallery are dotted around the picture-postcard harbour beside ancient castles and sandy beaches. 

Don’t miss Get out on the water and take the ferry from Falmouth to Truro. The journey takes in all the best bits of the Fal River, including waterside villages like Malpas and the Tudor castles of Pendennis and St Mawes.

16.  Aberaeron, Ceredigion

What’s the vibe?   Foodie central, with a weird thing for honey.

Why go?   Three reasons: the buildings, the ice cream and the dolphins. Roughly halfway between Aberystwyth and Cardigan, on Wales’s west coast, Aberaeron’s harbourside is ringed with beautiful Georgian houses – like especially radiant gems on a fairly everyday necklace. The town is perhaps best known for its honey ice cream, the most delicious of which you’ll find at restaurant The Hive , but it’s also a prime spot for seafood and afternoon tea and cake – making it the ideal pitstop on your way up the Wales Coast Path.

Don’t miss   Cardigan Bay is one of the best places in Europe to spot dolphins. Head out on a boat trip from nearby New Quay and look out for the bottlenose pods that like to linger off the coast.

17.  Cromarty, Highlands

What’s the vibe? A Highland f ishing village with a fairytale feel. 

Why go? Sticking out like a witch’s hat into Cromarty Firth, this tiny, old-time fishing town is straight out of a fairy tale. Perched on the tip of the Black Isle – a sea-scuffed Highland peninsula – it’s surrounded by pink-tinged beaches, waterfalls with names like Fairy Glen and mysterious Clootie Wells, where people hang up rags as part of an ancient Celtic tradition. Cromarty’s section of the bay is lined with eighteenth-century fisherman’s cottages and clusters of historic buildings in the traditional Highland vernacular, all  whitewashed walls and black window frames. Look out for East Church, with its elegant clear-glazed windows, and Hugh Miller’s Cottage , a quaint thatched museum dedicated to a local geologist. Then head to Burnside Place ’s converted eighteenth-century brewery, where the Cromarty Brewing Company serves up suds and Cromarty Arts Trust holds spoken-word nights.

Don’t miss Hop on a boat tour from the harbour to see if you can spot the world’s most northerly pod of bottlenose dolphins. 

18.  Bardsea, Cumbria

What’s the vibe? Quiet, moody and utterly atmospheric.

Why go? While hordes of holidaymakers descend on the nearby  Lake District , Bardsea village and its vast expanse of marshy sand remains totally serene. This is retreat country: marshy grasses lead out into Morecambe Bay, which is overlooked by  Conishead Priory, a former abbey that’s now a Buddhist Centre with eye-popping Tibetan  architecture. The centre couldn’t have found a more beautiful location: this is the perfect spot for doing a bit of soul-searching.

Don’t miss Venture out to Chapel Island, a small outcrop off the coast, which was once the site of an ancient chapel built by the monks of Conishead. You can only visit when the tide is out and you’ll need to go with an experienced guide who’ll help you avoid the quicksand.

19.  Saltburn-by-the-Sea, Yorkshire

What’s the vibe? A Victorian seaside town that remains charmingly untouched. 

Why go? The North Yorkshire coast has its fair share of picturesque seaside towns, but Saltburn-by-the-Sea really is a looker. It’s all thanks to Henry Pease, a Victorian industrialist who created Saltburn in 1858 after having a celestial vision of a pleasure grounds on a cliff edge. It still has its original funicular, the Saltburn Cliff Lift, which takes visitors down to a huge sandy beach, and its original Victorian pier, which (unlike neighbouring Scarborough) has avoided the usual gaudy amusements. Despite the antiquated surroundings, there’s an arty, contemporary undercurrent running through the place. Look out for its vibrant independent businesses, burgeoning surfing scene, crafty farmer markets, and jazz nights.

Don’t miss A pint in the Ship Inn , a legit sixteenth-century smugglers’ tavern.

20.  Salcombe, Devon

What’s the vibe? Secluded Devon splendour meets extreme toffness.

Why go? It’s legit beautiful, surrounded by majestic hills and quiet tidal beaches. It might be on the glitzier, pricer side – come summer it caters to the upmarket tourism market with its clusters of posh boutiques and chic restaurants – but, you’ll also find plenty of natural splendour here too. East Portlemouth Beach’s secluded sandy coves are perfect wild-swimming spots and coastal trail the South West Coast Path takes you past hidden beaches, rugged pinnacles and undulating sea views. 

Don’t miss The stunning National Trust garden (and view) at Overbeck House , followed by a seafood platter at beach-side restaurant The Winking Prawn . 

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7 Friendliest Towns For Seniors In New England

From Stowe to Rowley, these are some of the coziest and friendliest New England towns for seniors, ranked from most to least populated.

• Vermont's Stowe offers a blend of urban comfort and outdoor activities, making it a great spot for seniors.
• Mystic, Connecticut, with its maritime history and seafood, is ideal for a tranquil retirement option.
• Rowley, Massachusetts, is a charming and underrated town with cozy eateries and independent shops.

Covering an area of 71,988 mi², the northeastern US region of New England encompasses the states of Rhode Island, Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.

It boasts a plethora of attractions and activities to suit all ages and types of travelers, from Connecticut’s waterfalls and their accompanying trails to Rhode Island’s uncrowded yet scenic towns and charming coastal villages, and underrated gems like Worcester, which retains the urban flare and historical value of Boston .

Senior visitors and retirees are also presented with a wide array of suitable choices for a friendly and interesting short, long-term, or permanent stay. From Stowe, Vermont, to Rowley, Massachusetts, these are some of the coziest and friendliest small communities in New England for seniors, whether for a vacation or for retirement, ranked from most to least populated.

These Are The Three Best Cities For Retirement Right Now

7 stowe, vermont, population: 5,273.

With its welcoming community and perfect blend of urban comfort and pastoral landscapes, Stowe is a great choice for seniors. It is considered one of the most beautiful places to live in New England , and it caters to different types of travelers and retirees, especially when it comes to outdoor activities like skiing, snowshoeing, kayaking, and hiking.

Seniors will particularly enjoy the town’s top yoga, spa, golf, and fishing facilities, pottery classes and galleries, performing arts venues, craft brewery tours , maple sugarhouses, and antique boutiques.

They’d also be tempted to visit free attractions like the Vermont Ski & Snowboard Museum (Thursday to Sunday; 12 to 5 pm) and the Stowe Historical Society Museum (Wednesday to Saturday, 1 to 4 pm); the Farmer’s Market on Sunday mornings; and paddling on the gentle waterways in the vicinity.

6 Mystic, Connecticut

Population: 4,543.

Golden-aged roadtrippers exploring picturesque havens along New England’s coastal highways would do well to make a detour at Mystic, a town with outgoing locals and a rich maritime history depicted in the Mystic Seaport Museum .

Taking a stroll along the harbor and parks, boating, and sampling the excellent seafood and homemade fudge are some of the most popular activities. Not to mention that the area’s tranquil lifestyle and reliable healthcare facilities also make it an ideal retirement option.

5 Provincetown, Massachusetts

Population: 3,753.

Located at the northern tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown is among the most charming New England towns for a cozy retirement with welcoming shop and restaurant owners, thus making it suitable for seniors, particularly those belonging to the LGBTQ+ community .

It’s a renowned beach and foodie haven, with year-round entertainment and events, quirky boutiques, and historical inns and guesthouses. Top attractions include the sandy dunes of Race Point Beach , Commercial Street, Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum , and Provincetown Library .

The Provincetown Pride Parade takes place towards the end of May and the beginning of June.

7 Small Towns To See In Vermont When It Finally Stops Snowing

4 camden, maine, population: 3,745.

Set on Penobscot Bay in the MidCoast region, Camden is a must-visit seaside town for fans of historical buildings and both ocean and mountain views. This close-knit community takes great pride in its excellent lobster rolls and clam chowder and hospitable lodgings.

Seniors make up 29% of its population , and it’s particularly suitable for elderly visitors with pets, offering activities like swimming, kayaking, gentle hiking, bird watching, picnicking, lobster cruises , boating, antique and book shopping, and miniature golfing.

3 Bar Harbor, Maine

Population: 2,145.

Maine’s coastal allure, strong sense of community, and reasonable cost of living make it an excellent place for retirement, and Bar Harbor is perfectly suitable for elderly travelers and those looking to settle down. It’s compact, walkable, and offers stunning vistas and locally sourced seafood.

Best of all, it’s the gateway to the perpetually open Acadia National Park , making it one of the best places to retire in Maine for outdoorsy seniors. The latter boasts 27 miles of historic motor roads, 158 miles of hiking trails, and senior-friendly transportation like shuttle buses and horse-led carriages.

2 Meredith, New Hampshire

Population: 2,865.

Nestled in Belknap County, in the Lakes Region, Meredith is one of those small towns in New Hampshire that look like a Norman Rockwell painting , with welcoming, helpful, and generous locals, family-run businesses, and a lively arts and crafts community .

Activities, events, and attractions suitable for seniors include the Winnipesaukee Playhouse , the Meredith Sculpture Walk in July and September, Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery , and Moulton Farm .

10 Scenic Vacations In The Heart Of New Hampshire's White Mountains

1 rowley, massachusetts, population: 1,481.

Rowley is considered one of the most underrated but scenic towns in New England that are great lternatives to New Haven , with small, independent businesses and outgoing residents. Its profusion of farmland, historical homes, family-owned shops, and cozy eateries make it a relaxing and charming destination for elderly visitors or retirees.

Popular attractions include the Mill River Winery , the Todd Farm Flea Market, held every Sunday on Main Street, and the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge , which is great for birding, fishing, beaching, scenic driving, swimming, and photography.

New England Ski Towns to Visit in Summer

May 01, 2024 | Samantha Barry

While ski resorts wind down their winter operations in spring, the fun continues after the lifts stop spinning for the winter ski season. Many New England ski towns have just as much to offer, if not more, during the summer. You’ll find cool music festivals, interesting museums, tons of outdoor activities, and more in some of New England’s top ski towns. These are some of the best New England ski towns to visit during the summer. 

The Best New England Ski Towns In Summer

Stowe, vermont .

Fittingly, we kick things off in Stowe, the quintessential ski town of New England. Stowe Resort , located on Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest peak, is bustling with fun summer activities. Take a hike up one of the scenic trails or ride the gondola to the top to enjoy the views. The Cliff House, which we named one of the best ski resort restaurants with a view, is open during the summer for lunch. For a different way to see Mt. Mansfield, meander your way up the historic Toll Road, featuring incredible views of Stowe, Lake Champlain, and the Adirondacks.

Fun summer activities abound in Stowe. The area has an extensive network of trails, including 50 miles of well-maintained single track. The Boston Globe called Stowe a “mountain biking mecca.” Those faster pace adventurers can enjoy ziplining nearby at ArbortTrek Canopy Adventures, while there are plenty of slow-paced adventures to experience like paddleboarding, fishing, and golfing. The town of Stowe is full of great restaurants, shops, and breweries.

Stowe is also home to some iconic landmarks, including the famous Trapp Family Lodge and the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum.  Just a short drive away, in Waterbury, is Ben and Jerry’s world-famous ice cream factory, which guests can actually tour. 

» View Stowe Lodging Options

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock is a gateway to some of New England’s most famous ski resorts, including Killington Resort , the Beast of the East, and Saskadena Six , which is located just outside of town. Both Killington and Saskadena Six have a lot going on in the summer. Ski operations continue at Killington late into spring, while it overflows with fun summer activities, headlined by the Killington Bike Park, featuring 3 high-speed lifts serving more than 30 miles of trails. Saskadena Six has a number of trails, and a skills park, all of which are free to use. 

The town of Woodstock itself exudes Vermont charm, filled with local shops, restaurants, picturesque brick buildings, and covered bridges.  Pick up a coffee from Mon Vert Cafe and stroll around town to take in all that Woodstock has to offer. Go on a self-guided tour of its historic covered bridges, stop by the Woodstock Farmers’ Market, go horseback riding, or enjoy a meal from any number of Woodstock’s great restaurants. While you’re in Woodstock, check out Vermont’s only national park, Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. Cap off your day with a stay at the award-winning Woodstocker B&B in the heart of the village.

» View Woodstock Lodging Options

Manchester, Vermont 

Manchester, located just down the road from Bromley Mountain , offers a great a taste of the New England experience. Explore the American Museum of Fly Fishing, take a walk in the sculpture gardens of the Southern Vermont Arts Center, or experience the beauty of summer along the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive. Make sure to pack your hiking books, so you can enjoy a hike on The Equinox Preserve’s acres of preserved land on the slopes of Mt. Equinox.

Manchester is full of fun local experiences and events, from farmers’ markets to the Taconic Music Festival to Manchester Hot Glass to the Sugar Shack, where you can pick up some Vermont maple syrup to take home. Bromley, located 15 minutes away, is a great family destination. Bromley’s summer activities include an alpine slide, giant swing, mini golf, and more family-oriented activities. 

» View Bromley Mtn. Lodging Options

Lincoln, New Hampshire 

Lincoln, New Hampshire, home to Loon Mountain , is an easy drive from some of New England’s major metropolitan areas, making it a great summer weekend getaway for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a prefect base to experience some of New Hampshire’s best hiking destinations, like Franconia Notch State Park, and the White Mountains. Hikes range from the quick 1.5-mile loop up Artists Bluff for incredible views to more strenuous hikes up some of the White’s most notable summits. Bag two peaks and hike Franconia Ridge to see the summits of Mt. Lincoln and Mt. Lafayette, or explore the wondrous waterways of Flume Gorge. For a unique ski resort adventure, hike up Cannon Mountain Resort and take the tram down for a one-of-a-kind view.

There’s a lot to love around Lincoln for those who prefer two wheels. Loon has several trails on the mountain for a wide-range of riders, while there are tons of biking trails throughout Franconia Notch State Park and the White Mountains. Franconia Notch Bike Path is a fun 20-mile round-trip path that parallels the Franconia Notch Parkway, bringing riders near attractions like the Flume Gorge, Echo Lake, and Cannon Mountain. 

Lincoln has a ton of great activities for families, including Whale’s Tale Waterpark, and Granite State Scenic Railway, which provides a number of different train excursions, plus offers the unique experience of a rail bike ride along the shores of Lake Winnisquam.

North Conway, New Hampshire 

North Conway is repeatedly ranked as one of the “Best Ski Towns” by USA Today’s readers. It’s home to Cranmore Mountain Resort , while Attitash is less than 10 miles away. Cranmore Resort’s Mountain Adventure Park is where it’s at during the warmer months, featuring a mountain coaster, lift-accessed mountain biking, summer tubing, climbing wall, scenic chairlift, and a lot more. Outdoor adventures abound in the region. Avid climbers flock to Cathedral and Whitehorse Ledges, while more low-key adventurers can head to the Saco River for some of the region’s best tubing for views of covered bridges and access to small swimming holes. 

The North Conway area is teeming with activities for families. The Mount Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center is the perfect place for kids to explore on a rainy day and learn about the historic weather patterns on the famed East Coast summit. Just a little bit outside of town is Storyland, affectionately known as the Disneyland of New Hampshire. This fairytale-themed amusement park is great for little ones with rides suitable for ages three and up. Take one of Conway Scenic Railroad’s train excursions for one of the most unique ways to see the region.

If shopping is more your speed, Settlers Green has more than 100 outlet stores and smaller local shops to explore. International Mountain Equipment is a great place to find new outdoor gear at consignment prices. Lastly, North Conway is home to the New England Ski Museum, which is a great spot to learn about the rich history of the sport in the area. 

Bethel, Maine

Home to Sunday River , Bethel is another New England town that’s repeatedly near the top of lists, like USA Today , of the best ski towns. Bethel is near some incredible outdoor destinations, like Grafton Notch State Park, where you’ll find a range of moderate to strenuous hikes, plus a stretch of the Appalachian Trail. There are also plenty of hikes that are on the lighter side, like the aptly-named Blueberry Mountain, where if you hit it during the right season, you’ll find the trail lined with blueberries. If you prefer to hit the water, Bethel Outdoor Adventure rents out canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards for use in the nearby rivers, while Frenchmens is a popular scenic waterfall and swimming hole. Cool off with a cold one at Sunday River Brewing Company. 

Sunday River Resort has a ton of fun summer activities, like golfing at the Sunday River Golf Club, scenic chairlift rides, and one of its most unique experiences, axe throwing at its axe throwing range. If you prefer adventures on two wheels, check out Mt. Abram Bike Park, which has a number of green, blue, and black trails. When you want a break from outdoor adventures, visit the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum, the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society, and the Lovejoy covered bridge on Route 5 coming into town.

» View Bethel Lodging Options

Berkshires, Massachusetts

While it’s not a town per se, we’d be remiss to talk about the best New England summer destinations without mentioning The Berkshires. The Berkshires, a region of western Massachusetts, is a popular destination for New England vacationers year-round. From skiing at Berkshire East in the winter to hiking Mount Greylock in the summer to leaf peeping the rolling hills in the fall, the Berkshires is rich with New England culture. As such, the Berkshires are best explored by car, since there are several great towns and areas to visit. 

Stroll through the quaint downtowns of Stockbridge and Lenox, filled with local shops and tons of dining. Stockbridge is also home to the Norman Rockwell Museum. Explore the grounds of his original studio and see the display of his work at the gallery. Elsewhere, see a show at Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington, a hub for performing arts in the Berkshires. Tanglewood is a popular music venue in Lenox, with the Boston Symphony Orchestra taking up residence there in the summer. 

» View Berkshires Lodging Options

Looking to travel outside New England this summer? Check out our highlights of the best ski towns across the U.S.

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• 7 Coolest Towns in Mid-South for a Summer Vacation in 2024

Summer 2024 is upon us, and with the change of seasons comes vacation planning. One of the most popular spots to visit in the summer is the deep south, especially Georgia and Florida's beaches and amusement parks. However, there are other places in the south that make for a great summer vacation. In the Mid-southern region of the U.S., you will find mountains, river towns, quaint communities, and beautiful forests. Not to mention, many of these towns also hold festivals and fun events during the summer. Here are 7 small towns in the Mid-South to consider for your summer 2024 vacation.

Bardstown, Kentucky

This inviting small town in the Mid-South of just over 13,600 people is famous for being the Bourbon Capital of the world. In 1789, Elijah Craig first aged bourbon in oak barrels in Bardstown , and the town has continued to keep this tradition alive. Today, you can tour many of these classic distilleries, including Lux Row Distillers, Log Still Distillery, and James B. Beam Distilling Co. Learn about the history of bourbon at the Oscar Getz Museum of Bourbon History or go for a walk at nearby Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest. Summer is a perfect time to visit, as June 11-16 is Bourbon Week, which features special bourbon releases, a city street concert, and various events celebrating Bardstown’s rich bourbon heritage. There are plenty of hotels in town to stay at, as well as the Poplar Cottage Retreat bed and breakfast.

Mountain View, Arkansas

Located within the Ozark Mountains , Mountain View is a truly picturesque small town with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and breathing in the fresh air. The top-rated trails include the White River Bluff Loop, which runs for 4 miles through the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest and the Steele Falls Trail. For bikers, the Syllamo Trail Mountain Biking offers 50 miles of single-track trail with many scenic views. There are plenty of opportunities for fishing as well at the Anglers White River Resort or Mirror Lake. You can also swim in the natural waters of the Gunner Pool Recreation Area. The town has many quaint stores and art galleries to visit, including Arkansas Craft Guild & Gallery and Mellon's Country Store. If you're a fan of motorcycles, then the 20 th Annual Mountains, Music & Motorcycles event held on August 16 to 18 will be an excellent time for you.

Hannibal, Missouri

This small town was home to a great American author, Mark Twain, who penned the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, and other American classics. Hannibal keeps the spirit of Mrk Twain alive with tours, museums, and more. The Mark Twain Riverboat provides a tour of the Mississippi River, along with dinner or lunch. The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum offers information on the famous author and his formative years in Hannibal. You can also tap into the adventurous spirit of Mark Twain by visiting the Mark Twain Cave Complex or going for a hike at the Sodalis Nature Preserve. For summertime events, consider checking out their Music Under the Stars concert series starting on June 20, featuring live music performances under the night sky, or attend Hannibal's 27th annual Juneteenth celebration on June 15, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans with various cultural activities and performances.

Tupelo, Mississippi

Hannibal isn't the only town in the Mid-South to be the home of a famous American. The inviting Mid-South town of Tupelo, Mississippi , was the home of the King of Rock, Elvis Presley. He got his first guitar in town as a birthday present for his 11th birthday, and today, you can learn all about his life at the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum or the Tupelo Hardware Company, where he received his guitar. There are plenty of other unique experiences in Tupelo as well, including the Buffalo Park and Zoo, where you can see these wild creatures of the Great Plains up close and personal. The town also hosts the Natchez Trace Parkway, a national park based on an 8,000-year trail used by Native Americans. For events in Tupelo, check out the Tupelo Elvis Festival from June 5 to 9, or participate in the Glow 5K on July 13 at Tupelo's Ballard Park, a nighttime race featuring glow-in-the-dark gear and entertainment.

Burnsville, North Carolina

Burnsville, North Carolina , is a fantastic spot for mountain lovers as it is home to Mt. Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. You can see this 6,684-foot mountain for yourself at Mount Mitchell State Park, which offers 40 miles of trails around the Fraser Fir forest. For other outdoor adventures, Loafers Glory Rafting and Tubing provides rafts for the North Toe River, while Bucktown Stables offers horse riding. Burnsville is also a great place to look at the stars, which you can see in their full glory at the Bare Dark Sky Observatory. As a mountain town, Burnsville also has a rich arts and crafts community, which you can see at its many boutique stores such as Page Pottery or Toe River Arts Gallery or during the Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair held from August 2 to 3.

Slade, Kentucky

Slade, Kentucky , is a hidden gem in the Bluegrass state, as it is located within the gorgeous Red River Gorge Geological Area. Within Slade itself lies the Natural Bridge State Resort Park, which features a beautiful natural sandstone arch that is 65 feet high and 78 feet long that you can stand atop and see scenic views of the entire gorge. If you're not up to walking the trails, you can take a Sky Lift up to the bridge. The park has many other trails and activities, including Thrills Ville, which provides ariel rope courses 50 feet off the ground. For other spots in town, see captive reptiles at the Kentucky Reptile Zoo & Captive Born Venom Lab, or grab a bite to eat at Miguel's Pizza. For quilt lovers, the Natural Bridge Artisan Festival & Quilt Show, held from August 17 to 18, is a great event to attend.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , this small town is a beautiful place to relax, party, explore and have a great time. The park itself has many trails running through the Appalachian Mountains, including Clingmans Dome, Alum Cave, Chimney Tops, and much more. The downtown area features a number of great stores and attractions, including Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Ole Smokey Moonshine, The Village Shops, and more. The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community includes more than 80 artists and craftsmen in an 8-mile loop in town. For summertime events, consider visiting Gatlinburg's Annual 4 th of July Fireworks Show and Midnight Parade.

Explore the Mid-South's Hidden Highlights

Whether you are looking for a relaxing day at the lake, a strenuous hike through the mountains, a riverboat tour, or to walk in the footsteps of famous Americans, the Mid-South has all you need for a great summer vacation. From the heights of the Appalachian Mountains to the caves of Mark Twain, you will always find something new to explore in the Mid-South. Consider adding these small towns to your summer 2024 vacation plans.

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