England offers a variety of travel experiences, from iconic double-decker buses to charming thatched cottages and stately country houses. Indulge in a traditional cream tea or encounter quirky aristocrats. While the weather may be cool and rainy, it adds to the country’s unique charm.
Travelers, on the other hand, will discover that the rainfall is not as frequent as rumored, that there are more Indian restaurants than fish-and-chip shops, and that England boasts an impressive array of tourist destinations within a compact region.
And then, of course, there is the classic British pub to explore while traveling. There’s nothing quite like traveling and experiencing the local brews, especially a classic pint of bitter.
Over the years, we have been fortunate to have traveled quite extensively throughout the United Kingdom. In this travel article, we aim to share our top recommended activities to do in the destination.
In this itinerary, we have curated a variety of activities that cater to different interests, ensuring that you will have an enjoyable time.
1. Stonehenge
Stonehenge is one of the most amazing structures we have ever seen. Even today, we can’t get our heads around how they were built with such primitive technology. Or how it came to be in the first place.
These unusual stones, discovered on Salisbury Plain, are thought to have been built some 4,500 years ago. However, no one knows why.
Some say they were used for religious events, while others say they were utilized for astronomical studies.
One thing is certain: those stones are hefty, weighing up to 25 tons. Of course, this raises the issue of how they were built.
Stonehenge has mystical significance for many individuals. For others, it is just a land of mystery. It is also surrounded by beautiful landscape. It is thus worthwhile to devote sufficient time to fully immerse yourself in this interesting attraction.
Accommodation: Where to Stay near Stonehenge: Best Areas & Hotels
2. Tower of London, London
Not far from Tower Bridge, the Tower of London is a must-visit destination for travelers. Explore the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site with its remarkable architecture. One of the must-see attractions is the White Tower, a historical monument that originated in the 11th century.
Over the years, it has been a popular travel destination, serving as a royal palace, a prison, and a place of execution. We highly recommend taking a tour inside to learn more about its fascinating and colorful history.
During your travels, you will have the opportunity to explore the towers, battlements, and ramparts, and even catch a glimpse of the Crown Jewels. The main attraction is the renowned Imperial State Crown, which is a must-see for travelers. This travel destination boasts an impressive collection of 2,800 diamonds, pearls, and other precious stones.
One of the must-do activities is to get your photo taken with a Beefeater while traveling. The Yeoman Warders, who are an iconic symbol of the Tower of London, are worth visiting during your travels. The site has been preserved since the 14th century and is now a popular travel destination.
Accommodation: Where to Stay near London: Best Areas & Hotels
3. Brighton, East Sussex
Brighton is a great travel destination with its iconic pier, charming shopping district called The Lanes, diverse culinary scene, and beautiful shingle beach. The train connections offer an excellent opportunity for a day trip to London and its nearby regions.
Explore the historic pier situated on the scenic south coast of England, which was built back in 1899. In the past, this place was a popular coastal destination that attracted affluent Londoners for vacation.
The pier is a significant representation of Brighton’s coastal history and culture. You can enjoy traditional arcade games, fairground rides, and booths selling classic seaside treats during your travels. When you travel to Brighton, make sure to taste the fish and chips, Brighton rock, and ice cream.
On a clear day, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the English Channel and the Brighton coastline during your travels. Make sure to capture plenty of photos of yourself at both locations for your travel Instagram.
4. Windsor Castle, Berkshire
Windsor Castle is the most well-known castle in England. So no trip is complete without a visit to this iconic royal residence.
The castle, which dates back to around 953, is a must-see architectural masterpiece for travelers. The destination offers a variety of impressive architectural structures and attractions that display diverse designs and historical periods. Notably, travel to Gothic, Tudor, and Baroque destinations.
Windsor, one of the oldest and largest occupied castles in the world, is situated near London. This destination has been a residence for numerous monarchs throughout history. It is also one of the most popular travel destinations. So expect a long if you plan to go inside.
Visiting the castle is a must-do for travelers, as it houses a vast array of art and artifacts. These include works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto that can be found during your travels. You can also explore priceless objects like royal crowns and ceremonial regalia. (Unfortunately, you can’t try them on!)
5. British Museum
When traveling to England, be sure to visit the British Museum in London, especially if you only have time for one museum. Located on Great Russell Street, this destination offers a journey through two million years of human history and culture with its captivating exhibits.
Ideally, you should plan a trip of two or three days to this place to explore everything, as the location has some amazing sights to offer. This involves visiting famous artifacts such as the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the Parthenon Sculptures. It also includes visiting Hoa Hakananai’a and exploring the ancient Egyptian mummies. If you’re short on time, there are some quick tours available for you to explore. In just a few hours, you can explore the main highlights of this destination.
Best of all, the museum is that there is no admission fee. This is a fantastic destination for traveling with children or a big group of friends.
6. Westminster Abbey
It’s difficult to choose the top tourist attraction in London since there are so many. Westminster Abbey is a must-visit destination for most travelers.
With a history spanning more than 1,000 years, Westminster Abbey is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in British history. It has played host to numerous significant events throughout the country’s past. This is the place where the Queen’s coronation was held in 1953. Additionally, there have been 17 royal weddings, with the latest being the marriage of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011. Many notable figures have been laid to rest at the abbey. Some of the notable figures who have made significant contributions to history are Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and William Shakespeare.
Visiting Westminster Abbey is a great opportunity to admire the beauty of Gothic architecture. The destination boasts high ceilings, detailed arches, and beautiful stained glass windows. Exploring this attraction with a guide is the ultimate way to travel. Traveling to that place will allow you to discover a lot about its history and importance.
7. Lake District
As you travel further north in England, the scenery becomes increasingly stunning, as someone once told us. It’s uncertain whether that statement is accurate. The Lake District in northwestern England offers pristine natural beauty for travelers to explore.
The region boasts a picturesque scenery of undulating hills, serene lakes, and jagged peaks. In fact, it resembles a scene from a Gainsborough painting! The location is an ideal spot for unwinding and enjoying a serene atmosphere. Especially after a busy period of traveling.
The Lake District offers a fascinating cultural and historical experience in addition to its breathtaking scenery. Travelers can explore various historical sites such as ancient stone circles, Roman ruins, and remarkable buildings like the Castlerigg stone circle and Beatrix Potter’s house.
It’s a perfect destination for travelers who love to explore nature through hiking, biking, climbing, kayaking, sailing, and other outdoor activities.
8. Chester Zoo, Cheshire
Our travel trends survey revealed that Chester Zoo was voted as the best zoo in England, with a significant lead in nominations compared to other contenders.
This attraction has been around for quite some time, as it was established in 1934, making it one of the oldest zoos in the United Kingdom. Even after all these years, it remains a top travel destination with more than 35,000 animals to discover. Visitors particularly enjoy seeing the orangutans, lemurs, and lions, and exploring the 128 acres of zoological gardens.
Situated on the outskirts of Chester, you can purchase tickets for £20 to £25 depending on the day of your travel. Additionally, you can enjoy a satisfying lunch at the memory cafe.
9. Warwick Castle
Warwick Castle is just a 15-minute drive from Stratford-upon-Avon. It’s worth incorporating a journey there if you decide to watch a Shakespearean play.
The castle, which is almost 1,100 years old, is a breathtaking representation of medieval design. The destination boasts remarkable ramparts, towers, and battlements. The interiors are adorned with period furnishings and artwork, creating a beautiful ambiance.
One of the top travel experiences here is to witness jousting tournaments, in addition to guided castle tours. Moreover, there are frequent opportunities for travel enthusiasts to witness falconry shows and historical reenactments.
The castle’s gardens and grounds are a must-see attraction, featuring stunning landscaping. We had a great time exploring the surroundings on foot. Next time, we’ll plan a trip and consider bringing a picnic basket. We might even try boating.
10. Eden Project, Cornwall
If you have some extra time during your trip to Cornwall, consider visiting The Eden Project. Although St Michael’s Mount is a great recommendation, The Eden Project is also worth checking out.
You may recognize it as the two massive biomes frequently featured on TV programs about sustainable living and the natural world.
While traveling, you can explore different biomes and witness a diverse range of plants from across the globe. These destinations feature tropical rainforests and Mediterranean landscapes for travelers to explore. It is also an amazing destination to explore sustainable practices and eco-friendly lifestyle. Especially as the destination generates its own renewable energy and practices water recycling.
The cafes and restaurants in the area serve local and organic food, which is grown on site. During our travels, we have had the pleasure of enjoying some fabulous meals.
11. Canterbury Cathedral
If you’re looking for more travel options, it’s worth considering a visit to Canterbury Cathedral.
Anglicans who were raised in the faith may wish to visit the mother church of the worldwide Anglican Communion. It is also a popular travel destination and the location of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the spiritual leader of the Church of England.
The cathedral is a must-see for travelers, as it has a rich history dating back over 1400 years and showcases impressive examples of Romanesque, Gothic, and Perpendicular architecture.
The cathedral is home to an impressive assortment of artwork and objects. You can explore stunning stained glass windows, ancient manuscripts, and historic vestments during your travels. The travel destination also offers captivating guided tours and audio tours, and frequently hosts unique events.
If you have the opportunity to travel, the gardens and grounds of this place are truly stunning and worth exploring. Exploring Canterbury could be a delightful travel experience.
12. Roman Baths
These ancient structures were constructed almost 2,000 years ago and are conveniently situated in Bath. This makes it one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world, worth visiting for travelers interested in history and ancient architecture.
When you travel there, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the ancient ruins and learn about the Roman way of life, including their social customs and beliefs.
The Roman Baths offer a unique travel experience as they are supplied by natural hot springs that were revered by the Romans for their therapeutic qualities. Even today, you can still see the steam rising from the waters.
Until recently, visitors were able to enjoy swimming in the baths. However, due to the detection of a dangerous amoeba that can cause meningitis, swimming is no longer permitted. Nonetheless, it remains a destination of immense cultural importance that is worth exploring.