England is a country of historical wonders, from north to south. And it’s not just about London—here are eight of the most famous attractions you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
From ancient monuments and royal landmarks to wild coastal paths and romantic market towns with vintage shops, England offers far more than just London. With excellent public transport and countless walking trails, it’s easy to explore even without a car, whether you’re heading for the lush valleys of the north or the sandy beaches of the South West.
Whether you’re into guided walking tours, hidden gems off the beaten track, or soaking up views from a rooftop bar in central London, these eight highlights showcase the very best of what England has to offer.
1 – Stonehenge
Sixteen kilometres north of Salisbury lies one of the world’s most enigmatic sites: Stonehenge. Surrounded by lush meadows and easily reached via a well-signposted car park, this mysterious place continues to inspire theories about its origins and purpose.
Dating back at least 5,000 years, it offers a window into a distant past.
Today, visitors can explore reconstructed Neolithic homes, artefacts, and guided tours that delve into the lives of early settlers. The landscape around the site also connects to the Stonehenge Landscape Trail, ideal for a walk through one of England’s most historic sites.
2 – Tower of London
Overlooking the River Thames in central London, the Tower of London has taken centre stage in English history for nearly 1,000 years. Built by William the Conqueror, this formidable fortress has served as a royal palace, prison, treasury, and even a zoo.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it hosts the Crown Jewels, the Royal Mint, and the Yeoman Warder tours that bring its stories to life. It’s a favourite among both history lovers and thrill seekers, and within walking distance of Regent’s Canal, offering a semblance of peace after a day of exploration.
3 – Roman Baths
Set in the South West, Bath has a fascinating history. Almost the entire city offers a striking blend of Roman heritage and Georgian elegance, and is best known for its ancient thermal baths. But its honey-coloured stone terraces and dramatic architecture, like the Royal Crescent, add to its charm.
Bath is also a hub of boutique cafés and vintage shops, with easy access to countryside escapes like the Cotswolds. It’s an excellent place for those seeking cultural depth, stylish shopping, and nearby walking trails. The city is also within reach of the Glastonbury Festival, and is ideal during the summer months.
4 – The Lake District
The Lake District is one of England’s most iconic national parks, offering a rich blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural heritage. Its deep lakes, wooded valleys, and rolling hills create a landscape that feels timeless. This region has inspired writers, artists, and travellers for centuries.
There are walking trails for all levels, from gentle circular routes around the lakes to more rugged hikes up the fells, where the reward is a wide expanse of spectacular views. Wild swimming is popular in summer, especially in places like Buttermere and Ullswater.
Charming market towns like Keswick and Ambleside are perfect bases for exploring. Here, you’ll find vintage shops, independent bookshops, and traditional pubs tucked away in cobbled lanes.
If you’re in the Lake District and are willing to go a little off the beaten track, you can stumble upon tarns hidden in plain sight, peaceful woodlands, and trails where you might even spot wild deer grazing on the hillsides.
If you’re up for a longer trip from the Lake District, why not drive 2-3 hours to the north-east coast to visit Bamburgh Castle? Set near a lovely seaside town upon a golden beach, we couldn’t recommend this visit more! This part of England is also home to the Farne Islands, where nature lovers can spot seabirds in their tens of thousands.
5 – York Minster, The Yorkshire Dales, and the Peak District
The magnificent York Minster is the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe and a spiritual beacon in North York. Surrounding the cathedral, the city’s cobbled lanes and timber-framed buildings echo with ancient history. The old walled garden and medieval guild halls are ideal for leisurely walking tours.
Beyond York lies the Yorkshire Dales National Park, a region of rolling hills, wooded valleys, and wild swimming spots. The Dales offer endless circular routes and hidden paths for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
It is also an excellent starting point to explore the Peak District, a national park and a popular destination for hiking, climbing, and other outdoor activities. So, if you’re a nature lover, we recommend you visit the Peak District to experience true British beauty!
6 – Windsor Castle
Just 40 minutes from London, Windsor Castle is one of the oldest and largest inhabited castles in the world. Still a royal residence, it’s often open to the public when not in use by the monarch.
The castle, built in the 11th century, includes the ornate State Apartments, the beautiful gardens, and the chapel where generations of the same family — the British monarchy — have worshipped. Views across the surrounding parkland and green spaces are especially lovely during the summer and the nearby town has the charm of a classic English market town.
7 – Canterbury Cathedral
Located in the heart of Canterbury, this iconic cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury and a cornerstone of English Christianity. It was here, in 597, that Saint Augustine began the conversion of the Anglo-Saxons.
The medieval streets around the cathedral are full of charm, featuring Roman ruins, Chaucer-themed attractions, and quaint cafés. Canterbury also serves as a good starting point for exploring nature reserves as it is only a short drive from ancient woodlands. For fans of heritage and literature, it’s a hidden gem well worth the detour.
8 – Buckingham Palace
A symbol of the monarchy and one of the capital’s most visited sites, Buckingham Palace needs little introduction. With 775 rooms and grand architecture, the palace opens parts of its interior to the public each summer, including the 19 State Rooms and the Royal Gallery, which features works by Rembrandt and Canaletto.
Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony in the forecourt, a spectacular show that draws crowds during the summer months. The surrounding area offers peaceful escapes too, with nearby green spaces like St James’s Park offering a peaceful atmosphere in the heart of London.
9 – Warwick Castle
Set above the River Avon in the town of Warwick, this fortress has stood for more than 900 years. Now carefully restored, it regularly hosts medieval festivals, guided walking tours, jousting events, and concerts. It’s a favourite for both children and grown-ups!
The castle grounds include a dramatic tower, a walled garden, and lush picnic areas. Warwick is also a gateway to the Cotswolds, where you’ll find small villages, beautiful landscapes, and towns like Stratford-upon-Avon — Shakespeare’s birthplace.
Nearby attractions include the quirky Hawkstone Park Follies. For a longer road trip, coastal gems like the Isle of Wight and the Jurassic Coast await on the south coast. Be warned: it’s a long drive, 3-4 hours, but it certainly is scenic!
Bonus Tip: Explore Beyond the Obvious
Other sites like Lundy Island, and Minack Theatre (carved into the cliffs of Cornwall) offer even more inspiration, with spectacular views, dramatic cliffs, and wild swimming spots galore. Many are filming locations, and during low tide, some coastal walks reveal paths and beaches hidden from view. And don’t forget, the UK is also home to some incredible theme parks if you’re looking for something more thrilling.
Whether you’re into history, nature, or just want to relax with a view, England’s layers of landscape and culture are as diverse as they are rewarding.
