28 Top Best Things to Do in England, it is often associated with cliché-ridden ideas such as double-decker buses, thatched cottages, and cold, rainy weather. However, visitors will be pleasantly surprised to find that the rain is not as frequent as they may have heard, Indian restaurants are more abundant than fish-and-chip shops, and there are numerous tourist attractions packed into a relatively small area.
One cannot forget the quintessential British pub experience, where a pint of bitter is a must-have.
Having had the opportunity to explore England extensively, we would like to share our favorite activities in this article. We have curated a diverse list that caters to everyone’s interests, ensuring that you will find something enjoyable to do.
Tower Bridge [SEE MAP]
Tower Bridge is undeniably one of the most iconic landmarks that will continue to captivate you. We have strolled across this bridge numerous times and each time, we discover something new that amazes us.
This bridge stands as a remarkable testament to Victorian engineering and design, recognized worldwide. Surprisingly, it was constructed in just eight years and officially opened its doors in 1886.
While walking along the bridge, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Thames River and the magnificent London cityscape. However, if you truly wish to be awestruck by these sights, I highly recommend taking a tour of the bridge’s towers.
By doing so, you will have the opportunity to witness these views from the elevated walkways. Additionally, you will have the chance to explore the bridge’s engine rooms. And of course, the experience of observing the bridge being raised and lowered is sure to fill you with excitement!
Magical Mystery Tour, Liverpool
If you are a fan of The Beatles, then taking The Magical Mystery Tour is an absolute must for anyone who visits Liverpool. This guided tour is not only highly entertaining, but it also takes you to all the significant places that inspired the band and their iconic songs. From Penny Lane to Strawberry Fields and the childhood homes of John, Paul, George, and Ringo, you’ll get to experience the places that shaped their music.
Throughout the tour, you’ll be treated to fascinating stories about the band’s history and the cultural impact of their music. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to listen to plenty of their songs and even visit the legendary Cavern Club. This historic venue is where The Beatles performed some of their earliest gigs, adding to the tour’s allure.
While you won’t be able to embark on a ‘Yellow Submarine’, the tour will take you ‘Here, There and Everywhere’. Rest assured, you’re bound to have an incredible time throughout the journey.
Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle, located in Maidstone, Kent, is often mistaken for being in Leeds. However, this stunning castle has earned the title of the ‘loveliest castle in the world’, and it’s not hard to see why.
Situated on two small islands, the castle is surrounded by a charming moat and exquisite gardens. Despite being completed around 1119, it has managed to maintain its remarkable condition throughout the years.
Visitors have the opportunity to explore the castle’s numerous rooms, including the grand staterooms and the underground grotto. Additionally, from the higher levels of the castle, one can enjoy breathtaking views of the picturesque Kent countryside.
Depending on the time of your visit, you may even have the chance to attend outdoor concerts or witness jousting tournaments. The castle also hosts Christmas markets, adding to its allure.
Maritime Greenwich
If you find yourself with some free time, a fantastic activity to partake in while in London is a visit to Maritime Greenwich.
Situated in the southeastern part of the city, this location holds the prestigious title of being a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its picturesque parkland and remarkable architecture, it boasts a variety of captivating attractions.
Among these attractions are the Royal Observatory, the National Maritime Museum, and the Queen’s House. Each of these sites is truly worth exploring and discovering.
After immersing yourself in these fascinating places, take a leisurely stroll through Greenwich Park. This charming area is perfect for enjoying a picnic on a sunny day and offers breathtaking views of the Thames River and the city’s skyline.
What makes this experience even more special is the opportunity to stand on the Prime Meridian. This line signifies the division between the eastern and western hemispheres of the Earth, allowing you to have one foot in each hemisphere simultaneously!
Eden Project
If you have some extra time during your visit to Cornwall, we highly recommend checking out The Eden Project. While St Michael’s Mount is our top suggestion, The Eden Project offers a unique experience with its two impressive biomes that are often featured on TV shows about the natural world and sustainable living.
Inside these biomes, you will find a diverse range of plants from different parts of the globe, including tropical rainforests and Mediterranean landscapes. It is not only a great opportunity to admire these plants but also to learn about sustainable practices and eco-friendly living. The site itself generates renewable energy and recycles water, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.
Moreover, The Eden Project takes pride in serving local and organic food in its cafes and restaurants. Based on our own experience, the meals offered there are truly exceptional. So, if you have the chance, make sure to explore The Eden Project and enjoy its fascinating offerings.
Chester Rows
If you have the opportunity to visit Liverpool, I highly recommend taking a short trip to Chester. This charming city, located near the border with Wales, has a rich history dating back to Roman times. While there are still remnants of its Roman heritage, one of the main highlights of Chester is the magnificent Chester Rows. These unique medieval structures were constructed on top of ancient Roman ruins in the 13th century.
The Chester Rows are a remarkable architectural feature that consists of covered walkways. These walkways are situated on the first floor of medieval buildings, providing sheltered access to various shops and businesses.
While you will undoubtedly want to capture the beauty of the rows through photographs, I also suggest exploring Chester’s vibrant arts, culture, and food scene. There is much to discover and enjoy in this captivating city.
King’s College Chapel
Cambridge University boasts the awe-inspiring King’s College Chapel, a remarkable example of Gothic architecture that stands as the oldest surviving structure within the university grounds. Dating back to the 15th century, this magnificent building left us in awe during our visit to Cambridge. The intricate stained-glass windows, elaborate stone carvings, and breathtaking fan-vaulted ceiling all contributed to its impressive allure.
To delve deeper into its rich history and architectural marvels, we embarked on a guided tour that proved to be a fascinating experience. We highly recommend taking the same tour when you visit.
If time permits, we also suggest attending a performance by the renowned choir that graces this sacred space. Their talent is widely acclaimed and promises to be a sensational experience.
Durdle Door
Durdle Door, situated on the Jurassic Coast in South Dorset, is truly remarkable amidst a country filled with breathtaking natural landscapes. This awe-inspiring natural limestone arch has become one of the most captured landmarks in the nation. It evoked the spirit of Ansel Adams within me!
The sheer beauty of the arch and the picturesque coastline surrounding it can captivate us for hours. However, there is more to experience here than just admiring the scenery. For those brave enough, a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters is an option (although a bit too chilly for our liking!). Alternatively, one can embark on an exploration of the neighboring hills and cliffs.
Additionally, a visit to the nearby Lulworth Cove Visitor Centre is highly recommended. There, you will be enthralled by fascinating tales of its history and folklore, including stories of smugglers and shipwrecks.
Royal Shakespeare Theater
Beatles enthusiasts must make a journey to Liverpool, just as Shakespeare admirers are compelled to embark on a pilgrimage to The Royal Shakespeare Theater. In order to accomplish this, one must chart a course to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of the bard and the esteemed location of the world-renowned theater.
The theater serves as the residence for the Royal Shakespeare Company, which consistently showcases a multitude of his plays. On occasion, they also present works by other renowned playwrights. These performances encompass both traditional and contemporary interpretations, catering to both scholars of Shakespeare’s oeuvre and those who may not be acquainted with his archaic English writing style.
In addition to witnessing a captivating performance, visitors have the opportunity to partake in behind-the-scenes tours of the theater. Furthermore, they can engage in Shakespeare-related discussions and workshops, enriching their understanding of his works.
Surf in Cornwall
Were you aware that the Cornish coastline spans approximately 679 km? Neither were we.
However, this remarkable length positions Cornwall as one of the premier surfing destinations in the United Kingdom. Individuals of all skill levels, ranging from beginners to professionals, flock here to conquer the waves.
If you have a desire to ride a wave, there are numerous exceptional locations you can venture to. These include Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay in Newquay, Sennen Cove on the west coast, and Porthmeor Beach in St Ives. Polzeath on the north coast is also a renowned spot.
No matter where you choose to surf, these places offer untamed and rugged scenery, featuring towering cliffs and secluded beaches. Additionally, they are delightful towns to explore once you’ve had your fill of the waves.
Durham Cathedral
The North East of England is a truly captivating region that we highly recommend visiting, if your schedule allows. And if you do decide to go, make sure to include Durham Cathedral in your travel plans. This remarkable structure stands as a symbol of the area’s rich history and is considered one of the most significant landmarks in the region.
Renowned for its exceptional Norman architecture, the cathedral has garnered widespread acclaim throughout Europe. Our own experience left us thoroughly impressed by its Romanesque arches, vaulted ceilings, and intricate stone carvings. However, it is the awe-inspiring stained-glass Rose Window, one of the largest in the world, that truly steals the spotlight.
With origins dating back to 1072, the cathedral holds a profound sense of history and spirituality. If you have an inclination towards such matters, we highly recommend attending a service or embarking on a guided tour to fully immerse yourself in the cathedral’s captivating ambiance.
British Museum
If you have the opportunity to visit only one museum during your trip to England, the British Museum in London should be your top choice. Located on Great Russell Street, this museum offers a captivating display of human history and culture spanning over two million years.
To fully appreciate the vast collection of exhibits, it is recommended to allocate two or three days for your visit. The museum boasts an impressive array of artifacts, including renowned pieces such as the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the Parthenon Sculptures. Additionally, you can explore treasures like Hoa Hakananai’a and ancient Egyptian mummies. However, if time is limited, there are also condensed tours available that provide a glimpse of the main highlights within a couple of hours.
One of the greatest advantages of the British Museum is that admission is completely free. This makes it an excellent choice for families with children or large groups of friends to enjoy a memorable and educational experience.
Whitby Abbey
Whitby Abbey possesses an air of mystique that captivates us. Perhaps it is the awe-inspiring location atop East Cliff, overlooking the charming seaside town of Whitby. Alternatively, it could be the remarkable Gothic arches and intricate stonework that leave us spellbound. Another possibility is that the Abbey served as an inspiration for Bram Stoker’s renowned novel ‘Dracula’.
Regardless of the reason, we wholeheartedly recommend visiting this remarkable site. Founded by Saint Hilda in the 7th century, the Abbey holds immense historical significance.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that Whitby is reputed to offer the finest fish and chips in all of England. We personally found them to be exceptional!
Canterbury Cathedral
If you haven’t exhausted your interest in cathedrals, it is worth considering a visit to Canterbury Cathedral as well.
For those who were brought up as Anglicans, a visit to Canterbury Cathedral is a must, as it serves as the mother church of the worldwide Anglican Communion. Additionally, it is the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury, who holds the esteemed position of spiritual leader within the Church of England.
Impressively, the cathedral has a history that spans over 1400 years and showcases remarkable examples of Romanesque, Gothic, and Perpendicular architecture.
Within the cathedral, you will find a remarkable collection of art and artifacts. These treasures include exquisite stained glass windows, ancient manuscripts, and historically significant vestments. The cathedral also offers captivating guided tours and audio tours, as well as hosting a variety of special events.
If you have the opportunity, I highly recommend exploring the cathedral’s beautiful gardens and grounds. Additionally, the city of Canterbury itself is a delightful place to visit.
White Cliffs of Dover
Dame Vera Lynn expressed her admiration for The White Cliffs of Dover for good reason. These cliffs are undeniably one of the most remarkable and exquisite sights we have ever encountered.
Standing tall at a height of 350 feet above sea level, these cliffs create a magnificent backdrop against the English Channel and the picturesque countryside that surrounds them. As a natural landmark, they hold immense value as a national treasure. Throughout history, these cliffs have played a crucial role in defending England, boasting fortifications that date back to both the Roman era and World War II.
Should you choose to visit this awe-inspiring landmark, there are various guided tours available for you to embark on. Additionally, you can explore interactive exhibits and visit historic sites, such as the grand South Foreland Lighthouse.
Warwick Castle
Warwick Castle, located just a short 15-minute drive from Stratford-upon-Avon, offers a captivating glimpse into medieval architecture. With its remarkable ramparts, towers, and battlements, this more than 1,100-year-old castle is a true masterpiece. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by exquisitely decorated interiors adorned with period furnishings and artwork.
While guided castle tours are a must, there are plenty of other exciting activities to partake in. Witnessing jousting tournaments is an absolute highlight, along with the opportunity to marvel at falconry displays and immerse yourself in historical reenactments.
The castle’s extensive gardens and meticulously landscaped grounds are a sight to behold. We thoroughly enjoyed strolling through them, and next time, we plan to bring a picnic and perhaps even try our hand at boating.
Lake District
The beauty of the Lake District in northwestern England is truly remarkable. With its picturesque landscape of rolling hills, serene lakes, and majestic mountains, it resembles a scene straight out of a Gainsborough painting. Moreover, this region offers a tranquil and idyllic atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and unwinding, especially after a busy period of sightseeing.
In addition to its breathtaking natural beauty, the Lake District boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage. Visitors can explore ancient stone circles, Roman ruins, and remarkable structures such as the awe-inspiring Castlerigg stone circle and the former residence of Beatrix Potter.
Furthermore, the Lake District is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, climbing, kayaking, sailing, or simply immersing yourself in nature, this region provides endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.
Hadrian’s Wall
We were filled with anticipation as we embarked on our journey to Hadrian’s Wall, a remarkable structure that dates back to AD 122. The mere thought of its purpose, to separate Roman Britain from the untamed lands of Scotland, captivated our imaginations. With its enduring presence to this day, we eagerly awaited the opportunity to witness its grandeur firsthand.
Hadrian’s Wall has garnered acclaim as one of the most awe-inspiring Roman monuments worldwide. Spanning an impressive distance of over 73 miles, it traverses through England’s picturesque and dramatic landscapes. These encompass rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and untamed moorlands.
This remarkable site offers an excellent opportunity for hiking, with numerous intriguing structures to discover along the way. Additionally, there are local museums and visitor centers that provide a wealth of exhibits and presentations. Delving into these resources, you will uncover the fascinating history of the ancient Britons who once inhabited this region.
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle, renowned as the most renowned castle in England, is an essential destination for any traveler. Its origins date back to approximately 953, making it an architectural marvel that encompasses a variety of magnificent structures and elements representing different architectural styles and historical periods, including Gothic, Tudor, and Baroque.
Situated in close proximity to London, Windsor Castle holds the distinction of being one of the oldest and largest continuously inhabited castles worldwide. Throughout the centuries, it has served as the residence for numerous kings and queens, further enhancing its historical significance. Consequently, it has become a highly sought-after attraction, resulting in potentially lengthy queues for those wishing to explore its interior.
Nevertheless, the wait is undoubtedly worthwhile, as the castle houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts. Among its treasures are notable works by esteemed artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto. Additionally, visitors can marvel at priceless objects, including royal crowns and ceremonial regalia, although the opportunity to try them on, unfortunately, remains unavailable.
The Cotswolds
If you are unable to visit the northern part of England, it is highly recommended to venture out to The Cotswolds solely for its breathtaking natural beauty. Similar to the Lake District, this region boasts an incredibly picturesque landscape consisting of rolling hills, meandering streams, and verdant countryside. Moreover, The Cotswolds is rich in medieval castles, grand estates, and charming villages, along with delightful market towns that exude enchantment.
For those who enjoy walking or biking, this area is an ideal destination. Numerous roads and paths await exploration, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the region’s wonders. However, if such activities seem too strenuous, take solace in the fact that The Cotswolds is renowned for its delectable local produce, including cheeses, meats, and wines.
Furthermore, this region is celebrated as cider country, making it imperative for you to seek out a quaint local pub where you can savor this delightful beverage.
York Minister
It is evident that England is home to numerous cathedrals, and one more remarkable addition to the list of attractions in England is York Minster.
In contrast to Leeds Castle, this iconic structure is situated in the city of York itself! Its origins can be traced back to approximately 1386, and it is renowned for its captivating Gothic architecture. Additionally, it is celebrated for its exquisite carvings and magnificent stained glass windows.
Serving as the seat of the Archbishop of York, this cathedral holds great significance as a cultural landmark.
Visitors have the option to partake in a guided tour and attend a service. However, our highest recommendation would be to ascend the tower’s 275 steps.
Upon reaching the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the splendid city of York and the picturesque countryside that surrounds it. Both vistas are undoubtedly worth the effort.
Westminster Abbey
It is a challenging task to select the foremost attraction in London due to the abundance of options available. However, Westminster Abbey undeniably secures a spot on the majority of people’s lists.
With a rich history spanning over 1,000 years, Westminster Abbey has witnessed numerous significant events in British history. Notably, it served as the venue for the Queen’s coronation in 1953 and has hosted 17 royal weddings, including the recent nuptials of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011. Additionally, the abbey serves as the final resting place for esteemed individuals such as Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and William Shakespeare.
Westminster Abbey stands as a remarkable exemplar of Gothic architecture, characterized by its soaring ceilings, intricate arches, and breathtaking stained glass windows. To truly appreciate this attraction, a guided tour is highly recommended. Through such a tour, you will gain extensive knowledge about its historical significance and overall importance.
Roman Baths
The Roman Baths in England, located in Bath, are truly a remarkable site. Constructed almost 2,000 years ago, they are among the most well-preserved Roman sites worldwide.
A visit to the Roman Baths allows you to delve into the ancient remains and gain insights into the Roman way of life, encompassing their social customs and beliefs.
These baths are supplied by natural hot springs, which the Romans believed possessed healing properties. Remarkably, even today, you can witness the steam emanating from the waters.
In the past, visitors had the opportunity to swim in the baths. However, due to the detection of a dangerous amoeba that can cause a form of meningitis, swimming is no longer permitted. Nevertheless, the Roman Baths remain an immensely culturally significant destination that is certainly worth exploring.
Tower of London
Located in close proximity to Tower Bridge, the Tower of London is an absolute must-visit destination. Recognized as a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site, it showcases remarkable architectural marvels. Notably, the White Tower, which dates back to the 11th century, stands out as a prominent feature.
Throughout its rich history, the Tower of London has served various purposes, including being a royal palace, a prison, and a site for executions. We highly recommend taking a guided tour inside to delve deeper into its fascinating and vibrant past.
During your visit, you will have the opportunity to explore the towers, battlements, and ramparts, as well as witness the awe-inspiring Crown Jewels. Among these treasures, the renowned Imperial State Crown steals the spotlight, adorned with an astonishing 2,800 diamonds, pearls, and other precious gemstones.
Additionally, it is essential to capture a moment with one of the iconic Beefeaters. These Yeoman Warders have been safeguarding the Tower of London since the 14th century, symbolizing its enduring legacy.
Stonehenge
Stonehenge is an awe-inspiring sight that continues to baffle us with its construction methods, considering the limited technology available at the time. The exact purpose of these distinct stones, located on Salisbury Plain, remains uncertain.
Some speculate that Stonehenge served as a site for religious rituals, while others argue it was utilized for astronomical observations. Regardless, the sheer weight of these stones, reaching up to 25 tons, raises the question of how they were erected.
For many individuals, Stonehenge holds a deep spiritual significance, while others are captivated by its enigmatic nature. Additionally, the surrounding picturesque countryside adds to the allure of this captivating attraction. Taking the time to fully immerse oneself in the wonders of Stonehenge is truly worthwhile.
Bodleian Library
If you have a passion for books, then a trip to The Bodleian Library at Oxford University is a must. Despite its name, it is not just a single library, but rather a collection of 28 distinct libraries that hold a wealth of academic history spanning over 400 years.
Established in 1602 by Sir Thomas Bodley, this remarkable institution houses an astounding 13 million items in its vast collection. Among its treasures are the original manuscripts of the Codex Bodley, the Gutenberg Bible, and Shakespeare’s First Folio.
While in Oxford, we highly recommend taking a guided tour of the library and exploring its various buildings. The books found here are truly rare, and the architectural beauty of the library is simply breathtaking.
Additionally, if you happen to be a fan of the Harry Potter movies, you’ll be delighted to recognize some of the rooms within the library, as they were used as filming locations.
St Michael’s Mount
Cornwall offers an abundance of picturesque locations where you can have an incredible time. However, if you can only visit one place, we highly recommend St Michael’s Mount.
Situated on a small tidal island, this attraction is truly one of the county’s most breathtaking sights. During low tide, you can easily reach it on foot, while at high tide, a boat will take you there. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a magnificent castle and a medieval church, both of which leave a lasting impression.
Exploring the castle and its stunning gardens is a must-do when visiting St Michael’s Mount. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to wander through the charming village that resides on the island.
This village boasts enchanting narrow streets adorned with traditional cottages and cozy cafes. During our visit, we indulged in delightful Cornish Tea Scones (with jam first!) that were simply exquisite.
Brighton Pier is one of the 28 Top Best Things to Do in England
Although some individuals may consider Brighton Pier to be somewhat kitschy, we have a genuine fondness for it. The fact that this structure has withstood two world wars, numerous storms, and a devastating fire in 2003 is undeniably impressive to us.
Constructed in 1899, this pier is situated on the southern coast of England. In its heyday, it served as one of the nation’s premier seaside destinations, attracting affluent individuals from London who sought a holiday retreat.
Presently, the pier stands as an iconic symbol of Brighton’s coastal heritage. It boasts traditional arcade games, amusement park rides, and stalls offering classic seaside delicacies. Indulging in fish and chips, Brighton rock, and ice cream is an absolute must.
On a clear day, the pier also provides breathtaking vistas of the English Channel and the Brighton shoreline. You’ll undoubtedly want to capture numerous selfies at both locations for your Instagram feed.
