– This post was written by Becky Wicks –
Whether you just watched The Holiday and want to pull a Cameron Diaz-inspired solo trip to England, or you’re looking for a getaway spot to visit with your loved ones, this blog has what you’re looking for.
From off-the-beaten-track islands and ancient castles to dolphin-filled oceans, here are some of the most beautiful places and things to do in England.
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1. Isles of Scilly
Imagine cobalt blue seas, sub-tropical gardens, and white sandy beaches – no, it’s not the Mediterranean – it’s the Isles of Scilly, just 15 minutes from Cornwall.
With 145 islands, Cornwell is a great place to do some outdoor activities in the summer or discover its art scene in the winter.
What to do
Island-hopping: There’s an army of boats waiting to take you on full-day and half-day trips to a number of the Scilly Islands. Some will even drop you off at the uninhabited islands. Don’t worry, they’ll pick you up, too.
Horseback riding: If the tides are on your side you can even ride your horse out into the sea. Regular evening fishing trips and wildlife tours leave from St Mary’s, the largest island.
Arts and crafts: The natural light and the jaw-dropping landscapes of the archipelago have long attracted all types of artists, such as the glass artist, Oriel Hicks, whose ocean-inspired work you can view at Phoenix Craft Studios. Take a look at the island’s public art, visit a local museum, or go for a painting workshop by the beach.
2. Cotswolds
Roughly two hours from London, the Cotswolds’ golden stone buildings and rolling green hills (the ‘Wolds’), make it one of the most beautiful places in England.
Whether you feel like cuddling up with a cardigan and some warm tea next to a cozy fireplace or running through an empty field, letting the breeze take away your everyday worries, the Cotswolds are here to sweep you off your feet.
What to do
Bibury: With its 17th-century stone buildings, it’s not hard to see why William Morris, a British textile designer, poet, novelist, and socialist activist, called Bibury “the most beautiful village in England.” If you are traveling from London and looking for things to do in England, this tour of Bibury’s markets and villages will take you through the best spots in the area.
Kelmscott Manor: Speaking of William Morris, you can add a visit to his former home to your list of beautiful places in England. Morris drew inspiration from the home and its barns, meadows, streams, and gardens for his writings and designs, some of which you’ll find on display there.
Upper and Lower Slaughters: Take photos at beautiful spots like the Chipping Steps in Tetbury and Bourton-on-the-Water. And if you’re looking for a good pub lunch, The Wild Rabbit in Chipping Norton serves up organic Daylesford-farmed produce.
3. Corfe and Corfe Castle
Corfe is famous for its 1,000-year-old castle but there’s more to it than that. These days, Corfe offers a special blend of British customs, including boutique shops, cozy pubs, restaurants, and teahouses. This makes Corfe a place where you can relax and explore at your own pace.
🎉 Fun Fact: The village of Corfe itself is a hive of history that dates from the Cretaceous and Jurassic periods when hungry dinosaurs roamed the Isle of Purbeck. There’s evidence that civilization existed on the southern edge of the village over 8,000 years ago!
What to do
Corfe Castle: Partially demolished in 1646 by the Parliamentarians, the castle is difficult to miss now. There are fallen walls, secret hideouts, and arrow loops – and if you visit in summer, you can even spot a falconry display, or learn the art of chivalry in knight school.
The Courtyard Cafe and Tea Room: Corfe Castle also has some splendid tea rooms and a 17th-century courtyard garden. There, you can enjoy a Dorset cream tea, a bite to eat, or a glass of chilled wine.
Swanage Steam Train: If you get bored easily on guided tours and feel like discovering the area on your own, consider riding the Swanage Steam Train, with stops at Corfe Castle and Harman’s Cross. You can also book a dining train and enjoy the view – a feast for your eyes (and your stomach!).
4. Lake District
All five of England’s tallest mountains rise from the lakes and meadows in Cumbria, peaking at over 3,000 feet high. That means trekking, hiking, cycling, and climbing can be found here in abundance.
What to do
Lake Windermere: Northern England’s longest lake has cute little villages dotted all along the shores. You can also stop by the Lakes Aquarium for a look at some local otters and stingrays. If you feel like getting the full picture of the Lake District, you can go on a day tour from Windermere to the Ten Lakes, with stops at all the landmark sites, a quick cruise, and lunch.
Ambleside: At the lake’s northern tip, it’s a busy hub of restaurants, cafes, and shops. It’s also the starting point for lots of scenic walks and tours. If it’s a little windy, opt for a train ride along the Cumbrian coast. A good place to start might be the Edwardian seaside town of Grange-over-Sands.
5. Watergate Bay
Watergate Bay itself comprises over two miles of glistening golden sand at the foot of towering cliffs, roughly three miles from Newquay. It’s the quintessential English seaside destination and a beautiful option if you’re looking for summer holiday ideas in England.
What to do
Surfing in the Celtic Sea: Everything at Watergate Bay is centered around surfing, and you’ll find a lot of schools that provide lessons. Just head to the beach and look for the signs. You can pack a picnic and enjoy a sunset drink on the beach, or from the cliffs that surround the bay.
The Eden Project: While you’re in Cornwall it would be a shame to miss this selection of flora and fauna. The world’s largest greenhouse can be found here. If you’re visiting with your family, or a group of friends and feel like spending the day there, there’s plenty to do, including zipline activities, exhibitions, and an onsite café!
6. Isle of Wight
Just a short hop, skip, or preferably boat ride across the Solent and you’re on the legendary Isle of Wight. Picture forests and farms, quaint fishing villages, sandy beaches, crashing waves, and looming cliffs, and you’re halfway there. This makes the Isle of Wight the dream location for a solo trip in England or an outing with your outdoorsy friends.
🌟 Fun Fact: The Isle of Wight is so spectacular it’s said to have been the inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland.
What to do
The Needles Landmark: This attraction in West Wight is a beautiful way to soak up the English scenery. The memorable image of the world-famous chairlift has graced many postcards over the years, and it still takes visitors from the cliff above Alum Bay, down to the beach below.
Osborne House: Pay a visit to Queen Victoria’s family home for a glimpse of its extravagant interiors and beautiful gardens.
Ryde: If you’re after more nightlife than nobility, head to Ryde. the largest town on the Isle of Wight. There, you can go on a lovely promenade on the seafront, ogle the impressive Georgian and Victorian buildings, and then get tipsy in one of the numerous pubs and restaurants.
7. Northumberland
As a testament to the border wars of the 14th to 16th centuries, Northumberland boasts over 70 castle sites – more castles than any other county in England! This is the place for history buffs and wanna-be royalty.
What to do
Alnwick: As the second-biggest inhabited castle in England, Alnwick has starred in lots of TV shows and movies. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was filmed on-location at Alnwick Castle in 2000, followed by Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in 2001.
Hadrian’s Wall: Once the northern frontier of the Roman Empire, you can still find atmospheric temples, milecastles, and forts stretching 100 miles across Northern England. See the most beautiful parts in Northumberland at Segedunum, counted as the gateway to Hadrian’s Wall, and in the Roman town of Corbridge.
Northumberland National Park: Amongst all its historic attractions, Northumberland has some of the most beautiful countryside in England. Explore tiny coves and islands, and long sandy beaches, and don’t miss a hike or a bike ride inland in the Northumberland National Park.
8. Norwich
Norwich has some of the prettiest places in England, all within a 30-minute drive of the city center, although the city itself is a historic gem. History hounds will get a kick out of Norwich’s printing, leather, and railway history, dating back to the 1800s.
Other than the 12th-century cathedral, you can explore the site of the medieval canal responsible for bringing building materials to the cathedral site.
What to do
Bishop Bridge: Cross the centuries-old bridge on the River Wensum, built in 1340 for a snap on Elm Hill – one of the most picturesque streets from the Middle Ages in England.
Blickling Estate: If you want to get out of town and escape from the city, hop in the car and head to the birthplace of Anne Boleyn. If you can’t envision how it might have been in her time, the costumed performers in the secret garden will enlighten you.
Marriott Way: Explore the 26-mile footpath and cycle route that runs between Norwich and Aylsham. A half-day trip will show you some of Norfolk’s most beautiful countryside. Don’t miss a walk around 18th-century Aylsham, a great place for a cup of English tea and a cake.
Broads Wildlife Centre: For more gorgeous nature near Norwich, head to the grassland, woodland, and scrub of Ranworth Broad, famous for its cool floating Broads Wildlife Centre.
9. Oxford
The colleges look almost gold-plated, the libraries look inviting even to those who don’t like books, and the pretty cobbled alleyways lead you on a beautiful course to the tranquil River Cherwell that winds through the city.
There’s a large selection of Oxford city tours that will show you the most important landmarks, including a tour of Oxford Castle.
🌟 Fun Fact: Oxford University is the oldest university in the English-speaking world and should be added to any list of beautiful places in England.
What to do
Museums: Oxford boasts world-class museums, including the Ashmolean Museum and other university museums like Pitt Rivers and the unmissable Bodleian Libraries.
Botanic Gardens: If you want to get more familiar with Oxford’s natural surroundings, Oxford happens to have Britain’s oldest botanical garden, which would make an idyllic idea for a summer holiday in England.
Banbury: Check out the grand Elizabethan manor of Broughton Castle, watch history and heritage blend at Blenheim Palace – the birthplace of Winston Churchill – and seek out some impressive restored engines at the Didcot Railway Centre.
10. Brighton
Now one of England’s most popular seaside destinations, Brighton offers charming cobbled streets, tearooms, and miles of pebbled beaches. It’s come a long way from its medieval roots, which was once just a small town of only four streets.
What to do
East Sussex countryside: If you’re tired of pebbles and candy floss, get out and explore the East Sussex countryside – its scenery is considered one of the most beautiful places in England.
Kipling Gardens: The gardens were once the stomping ground of author Rudyard Kipling who had his country house in Rottingdean. You can’t get more British than a good old-fashioned game of croquet on the lawn.
Devil’s Dyke: This V-shaped valley is just as fun as it sounds. On the South Downs Way, Devil’s Dyke is famed for being the widest and deepest dry valley in Britain. Kids love picking berries here, and you’ll often find families picnicking with a view.
The South Downs National Park: This park is popular all year long and a berry nice place to take the kids – look out for the summer strawberry fairs. Explore the quaint market towns or saddle up and take a horse riding tour on the stunning National Trail.
