Reasons to Visit England
Why visit England? It is a country where history meets modernity. It offers travelers virtually something for everyone. From the historic streets of bustling London to the serene countryside and rugged coastlines, every corner of England is steeped in story and culture. Whether you’re exploring royal heritage, meandering through cozy towns, or enjoying the stunning coastal views, England provides a diverse and enriching travel experience.
London Points of Interest
London is filled with iconic landmarks and cultural riches. A visit to Buckingham Palace offers a glimpse into royal life, while the Tower of London brings you face-to-face with centuries-old history. The British Museum and the Tate Modern display world-class collections, and the bustling markets of Camden and Borough offer a taste of contemporary London flair. The Churchill War Rooms give you a sense of the heroic efforts taken by the British Government to save the country in World War II, and the Globe Theater gives insight into the life and works of Shakespeare.
British Royalty
The British monarchy has always been an essential element of British culture. With its rich traditions and modern influences, is an integral part of England’s identity. Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, is a must-see for royal enthusiasts. Additionally, visitors can explore the beautiful grounds of Kensington Palace or view the opulence of the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London, linking past and present royal stories.
Insider’s Tip for visiting Windsor. Skip the group tour and go on your own. There is a train from Waterloo Station that will take you to the town of Slough. From here, there is a short shuttle train that takes you to Windsor, just a 5-minute walk from the train station. Be sure to get your admission tickets in advance, and get the audio guide when you get to Windsor.
The English Countryside
England’s countryside is synonymous with tranquility and natural beauty. The Yorkshire Dales beckon with rolling hills and charming villages, while the Lake District captivates with its stunning lakes and mountain landscapes. The Cotswolds, with its idyllic villages and stone cottages, offers quintessential English charm, perfect for a serene escape into the rural heart of England.
Historic Towns
England boasts charming towns that echo with historic tales. York, with its medieval charm and the stunning York Minster, transports visitors back in time. Cambridge and Oxford offer world-renowned educational prestige with historic universities. Shakespeare’s life comes alive in Stratford-upon-Avon. Bath enchants with its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture and the life and works of Jane Austen. Canterbury is renowned for its role in English political/religious struggles and Durham has the last remaining original copy of the Magna Carta.
Coastal Gems
England’s coastline boasts diverse and captivating spots. Cornwall offers dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches, perfect for seaside adventures. Brighton combines lively entertainment with classic English seaside charm. Newcastle upon Tyne connects historic maritime heritage with vibrant cultural scenes. Dover has Dover Castle, whose strategic location assisted forces from the Romans to the British Navy in World War II. These coastal locales offer unique experiences that highlight England’s maritime legacy.
Major Annual Events and Holidays
England hosts a wealth of annual events that celebrate its culture and history. The Chelsea Flower Show in May highlights horticultural excellence, while the Glastonbury Festival in June is the pinnacle of musical events. Bonfire Night on November 5th commemorates the Gunpowder Plot, capturing a moment in history with fireworks and festivities across the country.
Key Seasonal Temperatures
- Summer (June-August): Average highs of 18-23°C (64-73°F)
- Autumn (September-November): Average highs of 10-15°C (50-59°F)
- Winter (December-February): Average highs of 5-8°C (41-46°F)
- Spring (March-May): Average highs of 11-15°C (52-59°F)
More Information on Things to do in England
One way I recommend to get more inspiration for visiting a country is to go to their Tourism Board website. The VisitBritain website is an excellent source of information. Here is a link to their site: More on England
How to Visit England
There are numerous ways to explore England. The port of Southampton is the embarkation and debarkation point for many European Cruises. You can take a self-guided driving tour, a chauffeured tour or an escorted tour, although I do not recommend driving in London. The city is extremely congested and many parts of the city require a special permit to drive there. Escorted tours offer insights from local experts, a pre-planned itinerary complete with a full-time tour director, hotel reservations, and restaurant recommendations. And taking an escorted tour eliminates the stress of trying to navigate congested roads and left-handed driving. I represent several tour operators who have excellent itineraries.
If you are used to international travel or want to focus on a few specific areas, we can set up a customized travel itinerary for you. We would set you up with hotels, transportation, and guided day trips to the places you want to visit.
