If you know me you will know that Bruce and I love to venture out at the weekends and explore local cities and towns, or sneak off for a weekend to explore further afield. With that in mind then here is my list of 27 places you have to visit this year.
England, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and charming cities, offers a plethora of destinations and as much as I adore foreign travel for the last few years I have loved learning more about England. From the historical beauty of Bath to the vibrant city of Exeter, England has much to offer this year. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through 27 places to visit in England, including lesser-known attractions and hotels with their own car parks which is my go to filter on search results because it matters more to me than anything else to be honest.
Bath
A UNESCO World Heritage city, is a must-visit for its Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, and the healing thermal waters of the Thermae Bath Spa. Don’t miss the hidden gem, Prior Park Landscape Garden, for a tranquil stroll. And if you are a Bridgerton fan then it’s a must visit
Exeter
Located in Devon, it offers a rich blend of history and culture. Explore Exeter Cathedral, the vibrant quayside, and delve into local history at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum.
Durham
Famous for its breathtaking cathedral and castle, both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city’s rich history and architecture are reasons enough to visit.
Lincoln
Boasts a stunning cathedral and castle with panoramic views of the city. The quaint cobbled streets of Steep Hill and the hidden gem of the Bishop’s Palace are worth exploring.
Rye
Nestled in East Sussex, transports visitors back in time with its cobbled streets and medieval architecture. Explore St Mary’s Church and the unique Mermaid Street, Rye really is Brighton’s sleepy cousin.
Bury St Edmunds
Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk boasts a magnificent cathedral and the historic Abbey Gardens. The medieval town center is charming, and don’t miss the Moyse’s Hall Museum.
Tavistock
Tavistock, on the edge of Dartmoor, is a market town with a rich history and natural beauty. Visit the Tavistock Canal and enjoy the Tamar Valley AONB.
Ludlow
Ludlow, a gem in Shropshire, features a medieval Ludlow Castle and picturesque town center. Explore Stokesay Castle and the Ludlow Food Centre. It’s foodie heaven.
Winchester
Winchester is famous for its cathedral and the Great Hall with King Arthur’s Round Table. Discover the medieval Wolvesey Castle and take a stroll along the River Itchen. Make sure you find the Antony Gormley statue in the crypt too!
Salisbury
Salisbury boasts the stunning Salisbury Cathedral and the world’s oldest working clock and another Gormley but this one is not so easy to find!. Explore Old Sarum and the Salisbury Museum for a deeper historical experience. I visit salisbury regularly and it never fails to make me smile at the history it offers.
Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, offers historic sites like Shakespeare’s Birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. Discover the tranquil Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm and see if you can get tickets for the RSC.
Lake District
The Lake District is a paradise for nature lovers. Explore Grasmere and take a scenic cruise on Lake Windermere. Don’t miss the lesser-known town of Hawkshead.
Peak District
The Peak District National Park offers stunning landscapes. Explore the charming villages of Bakewell and Matlock, and visit the lesser-known Tissington Hall.
Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast is famous for its unique geological formations. Explore Charmouth and the fascinating Durlston Country Park in Swanage and go fossil hunting!
Northumberland National Park
Northumberland boasts Hadrian’s Wall and the rugged beauty of the Northumberland National Park. Visit Kielder Water and Forest Park for stargazing opportunities.
Brighton
Brighton’s vibrant seaside atmosphere and the iconic Brighton Pier make it a popular destination. Explore the quirky Brighton Lanes and visit the Booth Museum.
Whitby
Whitby is known for its fishing town charm and the haunting Whitby Abbey. Discover the Captain Cook Memorial Museum and the hidden gem of Robin Hood’s Bay.
Cornwall’s Hidden Coves
Explore the picturesque coves and beaches of Cornwall, including Kynance Cove and the charming village of Mousehole.
Durham Dales
While visiting Durham, don’t miss the Durham Dales, a region of outstanding natural beauty. Explore High Force Waterfall and take a scenic walk in Teesdale. The Bowlees Visitor Centre is a lesser-known gem offering insights into the area’s geology and wildlife.
Ironbridge
Ironbridge in Shropshire is known for its industrial heritage. Visit the Iron Bridge itself, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the fascinating Blists Hill Victorian Town, a living museum where you can experience life in the 19th century.
Canterbury
Canterbury, in Kent, is famous for its historic cathedral. However, delve deeper into its history by visiting the Canterbury Roman Museum and the Canterbury Tales attraction. Stroll along the lesser-known Westgate Gardens for a peaceful escape.
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is dotted with picturesque villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury (which you might recognise as the row of cottages featured on UK passports. Be warned though it is ALWAYS busy and parking is a nightmare). Discover the lesser-known gem, Snowshill Manor, with its eclectic collection of treasures.
The Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight, just off the south coast of England, offers beautiful landscapes and coastal charm and I am almost ashamed to say I have never been. I know I know. While exploring the well-known Needles Landmark, consider visiting the lesser-known Brading Roman Villa for a glimpse into Roman history or Osborn House, once the home of Queen Victoria.
Norfolk Broads
Experience the tranquil beauty of the Norfolk Broads with a boat trip. Explore Wroxham and visit the lesser-known Ranworth Church and Nature Reserve.
Oxford
Oxford, famous for its university, offers stunning architecture and the Bodleian Library. Explore the Pitt Rivers Museum and the charming Botanic Garden. And just walk. Oxford is a fabulous city to wander around without any real agenda
Cambridge
Cambridge, another prestigious university city, boasts the historic King’s College and punting on the River Cam. Visit the lesser-known Anglesey Abbey and Gardens.
York
York’s medieval charm is epitomized by York Minster and The Shambles. Explore the Jorvik Viking Centre and the lesser-known York’s Chocolate Story.
Hopefully one or two of these will grab your imagination and offer you some inspiration of where to visit in England this year.