Discover the 15 must-see places to visit in England
England, a land of age-old traditions and romantic landscapes, fascinates travellers from all over the world. With its medieval castles, prestigious university towns and bucolic countryside, this country is full of treasures to discover. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast or in search of unspoilt nature, visiting England is sure to be an unforgettable experience. From the bustling streets of London to the wild cliffs of Cornwall and the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds, each region has its own unique character. Discover our selection of the 15 must-do things to do to explore England and soak up its very special atmosphere.
Also read the London guide:
- Top 10 best hotels in London
- Top 10 things to do in London
- 8 must-see historic monuments in London
- Top 11 culinary specialities in London
- How do I get to England by ferry from France?
1. London, the fascinating capital
It’s impossible to visit London without being dazzled by the wealth of this global metropolis. The English capital has centuries of history around every corner. From the majestic Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the Royal Family, to the mythical Big Ben dominating the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, one iconic monument follows another. The imposing Tower of London, guardian of the Crown Jewels, plunges you into the kingdom’s medieval history.
But London is also a resolutely modern city. Climb aboard the London Eye, a Ferris wheel offering breathtaking panoramic views of the River Thames. Stroll through the trendy districts of Shoreditch and Camden Town, veritable temples of street art and alternative culture. Museum lovers will be delighted with the British Museum and its extraordinary collections, the National Gallery and the Tate Modern.
Download the audio tour to discover London on foot and on your own
For an in-depth discovery of the British capital, let yourself be guided by the Navaway itinerary dedicated to London. This audio tour takes you through the city’s most beautiful districts, from Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square, via Piccadilly Circus and Covent Garden. With 20 points of interest with commentary, you’ll discover the fascinating history of the English capital while enjoying interactive navigation that adapts to your pace.
2. Oxford, the city of dreaming steeples
Just an hour by train from London, a visit to Oxford transports you into a prestigious academic world. This iconic university town is home to Britain’s oldest university, founded in the 12th century. Stroll through the cobbled streets and admire the majestic Gothic architecture of the various colleges.
Christ Church College (1 St Aldate’s, Oxford OX1 1DP, rated 4.6/5 on Google for 12,000 reviews) is undoubtedly the most famous: its Great Hall was the inspiration for the Hogwarts Great Hall in the Harry Potter films. The Bodleian Library (Broad St, Oxford OX1 3BG, rated 4.7/5 on Google for 8,500 reviews), one of the oldest in Europe, boasts an impressive 13 million books. Don’t miss the Radcliffe Camera, the iconic circular building that has become the symbol of Oxford.
With the Navaway audio tour for Oxford, explore 26 places of interest on your own, from the century-old colleges to the covered market, the medieval castle and the charming bridges over the Thames.
3. Stonehenge, the megalithic mystery
Two hours south-west of London stands one of the world’s most enigmatic prehistoric sites. Stonehenge (Amesbury, Salisbury SP4 7DE, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 35,000 reviews) has fascinated visitors for thousands of years, with its circle of monumental stones erected over 4,500 years ago. How did our ancestors manage to transport and erect these blocks of stone weighing up to 25 tonnes? What was the function of this monument: astronomical observatory, religious temple or place of healing?
A visit to Stonehenge is particularly magical at the summer and winter solstices, when the sun is perfectly aligned with the stones. The site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also has a modern interpretation centre where you can learn about the latest archaeological discoveries. Remember to book your tickets in advance, especially in high season, as the number of daily visitors is limited to preserve this treasure of humanity.
4. Bath, Georgian elegance
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath is a spa town of exceptional beauty. Its harmonious Georgian architecture, built in honey-coloured Bath stone, creates a unique atmosphere. The Roman Baths (Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1 1LZ, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 28,000 reviews) are the historic heart of the city: these remarkably well-preserved Roman baths take you back 2,000 years.
Don’t miss the Royal Crescent, this majestic crescent of 30 perfectly aligned Georgian houses, considered to be one of the finest architectural ensembles in Europe.Bath Abbey Churchyard (Bath BA1 1LT, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 15,000 reviews) impresses with its Gothic stained glass windows and perpendicular architecture. You can also take advantage of the Thermae Bath Spa (Hot Bath St, Bath BA1 1SJ, rated 4.3/5 on Google for 6,200 reviews), where you can relax in natural thermal pools with panoramic views over the city.
5. The Cotswolds, postcard-perfect English countryside
Spread over six counties, the Cotswolds region embodies the ideal of the English countryside. Its gentle hills dotted with villages of pale stone cottages seem frozen in time. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this region offers bucolic landscapes as far as the eye can see.
Among the must-see villages, Bibury is often described as the most beautiful village in England, with its Arlington Row, a row of 17th-century weavers’ cottages. Bourton-on-the-Water, nicknamed the “Venice of the Cotswolds”, charms with its stone bridges spanning the River Windrush. Castle Combe (Wiltshire SN14, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 9,000 reviews) seduces with its unspoilt authenticity, while Stow-on-the-Wold welcomes you with its medieval market square surrounded by antique shops.
The Cotswolds are best explored on foot, on the many footpaths that criss-cross the region, or by car for an enchanting road trip through quintessential rural England.
6. Cambridge, the other university jewel
Oxford’s eternal rival, Cambridge has a romantic atmosphere and spectacular Gothic architecture. The University of Cambridge, founded in 1209, has been home to such geniuses as Isaac Newton, Stephen Hawking and Charles Darwin. King’s College (King’s Parade, Cambridge CB2 1ST, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 18,000 reviews) impresses with its perpendicular Gothic chapel, considered to be one of the most beautiful medieval buildings in England.
The must-do experience in Cambridge is punting on the River Cam: these flat-bottomed, pole-propelled boats allow you to admire the ‘backs’, the lush gardens that line the rear of the colleges. Trinity College (Trinity St, Cambridge CB2 1TQ, rated 4.6/5 on Google for 7,500 reviews), the largest and richest of the colleges, is also worth a visit for its Great Court, the largest university courtyard in the world.
7. The Lake District, a walker’s paradise
Located in the north-west of England, the Lake District National Park (Windermere, Cumbria, rated 4.8/5 on Google out of 25,000 reviews) is the country’s largest national park. Its spectacular scenery has inspired romantic poets such as William Wordsworth. Sixteen sparkling lakes stretch between lush green mountains, creating breathtaking panoramas.
Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, offers a wide range of water sports and scenic cruises. For walkers, climbing Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak (978 metres), is a rewarding challenge with stunning views from the summit. Charming villages such as Ambleside, Grasmere and Keswick are excellent bases from which to explore the region. Don’t forget to try the famous Grasmere Gingerbread, a local speciality since 1854, and visit Dove Cottage, Wordsworth’s former home now a museum.
8. Brighton, the trendy seaside resort
Just an hour’s train journey south of London, Brighton embodies the joie de vivre and bohemian spirit of the English seaside. Brighton Pier (Madeira Dr, Brighton BN2 1TW, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 42,000 reviews), with its vintage rides and fairground attractions, takes you back to the atmosphere of English holidays of yesteryear. The pebble beach welcomes bathers and strollers, while the colourful beach huts add a picturesque touch.
The Royal Pavilion (4/5 Pavilion Buildings, Brighton BN1 1EE, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 16,000 reviews) is the city’s star attraction: this former royal palace in exuberant Indo-Moorish style looks like something out of the Arabian Nights. Stroll through the Lanes, a maze of cobbled streets filled with independent boutiques, trendy cafés and restaurants. The even more alternative North Laine district is packed with vintage thrift shops, art galleries and lively pubs. Brighton is also renowned for its vibrant LGBT+ scene and lively nightlife.
9. York, the fortified medieval city
Surrounded by perfectly preserved medieval ramparts, York transports you 2,000 years back in time. York Minster (Deangate, York YO1 7HH, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 32,000 reviews) is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. Its outstanding medieval stained glass windows, including the Great East Window, are the largest surviving set of medieval stained glass windows in the world.
Lose yourself in The Shambles (Market St, York YO1, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 18,000 reviews), a medieval cobbled street with half-timbered houses so close together that the upper floors almost touch. This picturesque street, which is said to have inspired Harry Potter’s Chemin de Traverse, is now home to craft shops and tearooms. The Jorvik Viking Centre (19 Coppergate, York YO1 9WT, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 8,500 reviews) immerses you in the daily life of the Vikings who settled York in the ninth century. Don’t forget to take a full tour of the medieval city walls (approx. 4 km) for a breathtaking view of the city.
10. Cornwall, between sea and legend
At the south-western tip of England, Cornwall offers spectacular coastal scenery and a unique cultural identity. St Michael’s Mount (Marazion, Cornwall TR17 0HS, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 14,000 reviews), a medieval castle perched on a rocky islet accessible at low tide, is reminiscent of the French Mont-Saint-Michel.
Surf enthusiasts should head to Newquay, the surfing capital of the UK, with legendary beaches such as Fistral Beach. The fishing village of St Ives (rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 8,000 reviews) boasts narrow streets, art galleries and an exceptional light that has attracted many artists. The subtropical gardens of the Lost Gardens of Heligan (Pentewan, Cornwall PL26 6EN, rated 4.7/5 on Google for 15,000 reviews) and the futuristicEden Project (Bodelva, Cornwall PL24 2SG, rated 4.6/5 on Google for 35,000 reviews) with its huge bubbles housing different ecosystems are also worth a visit.
For an authentic experience, explore the South West Coast Path, a spectacular coastal path that winds past towering cliffs and wild coves.
11. Windsor Castle, the royal residence
Just 40 minutes by train from London, Windsor Castle (Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1NJ, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 45,000 reviews) is the largest inhabited castle in the world and the favourite residence of the British royal family. Built almost 1,000 years ago by William the Conqueror, this majestic castle has survived the centuries as the official royal residence.
The tour takes you through the sumptuous State Apartments, richly decorated with master paintings, period furniture and royal treasures. St George’s Chapel, a masterpiece of Perpendicular Gothic architecture, is the burial place of many British monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II. If you’re lucky, you may be able to see the Changing of the Guard, a traditional military ceremony that takes place several times a week. The castle gardens also offer a pleasant stroll with magnificent views over the Thames. Combine your visit with a tour of the charming town of Windsor and its traditional shops.
12. Liverpool, birthplace of the Beatles
A vibrant port city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, a visit to Liverpool immerses you in British maritime and musical history. The Royal Albert Dock, a complex of restored docks, is home to fascinating museums, restaurants and shops in an exceptional Victorian architectural setting.
For fans of the Fab Four, Liverpool is a must-see. The Beatles Story (Britannia Vaults, Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD, rated 4.5/5 on Google for 12,000 reviews) traces the history of the world’s most famous band. Don’t miss the legendary Cavern Club (10 Mathew St, Liverpool L2 6RE, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 8,500 reviews), where the Beatles played nearly 300 concerts. The Navaway tour for Liverpool guides you through 25 iconic landmarks of this vibrant city, from the Anglican cathedral to the historic docks.
Liverpool’s two cathedrals are well worth a visit: the Anglican Cathedral (St James’ Mount, Liverpool L1 7AZ, rated 4.7/5 on Google for 12,000 reviews), Britain’s largest cathedral, and the modern Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral (Mount Pleasant, Liverpool L3 5TQ, rated 4.6/5 on Google for 6,500 reviews) with its bold circular design.
13. The Seven Sisters, majestic cliffs
On the south coast of England, between Brighton and Eastbourne, the Seven Sisters (Seaford, East Sussex BN25, rated 4.8/5 on Google out of 22,000 reviews) offer a breathtaking natural spectacle. These seven white chalk cliffs plunge steeply into the English Channel, creating a landscape of wild, unspoilt beauty.
The South Downs Way coastal path follows these cliffs, offering breathtaking views. The walk from Seaford to Birling Gap (approx. 13 km round trip) is accessible and rewards walkers with spectacular views. Beachy Head, the highest point of the cliffs at 162 metres, is the highest chalk cliff in Britain and offers breathtaking views across the English Channel. On a clear day, you can even see the French coastline. The Beachy Head pub (Beachy Head Rd, Eastbourne BN20 7YA, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 3,500 reviews) is a great place to stop for a bite to eat overlooking the ocean.
14. The Peak District, the first national park
Created in 1951, the Peak District National Park (Bakewell, Derbyshire, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 18,000 reviews) was Britain’s very first national park. Located in the heart of England, between Manchester and Sheffield, it offers contrasting landscapes between the wild heights of the Dark Peak to the north and the gentle limestone hills of the White Peak to the south.
Walking enthusiasts will enjoy climbing Mam Tor, nicknamed the ‘Shaking Mountain’, which rises to 517 metres and offers spectacular panoramic views. The village of Castleton is an ideal base for exploring the area’s spectacular underground caves, including Peak Cavern (Peak Cavern Rd, Castleton S33 8WS, rated 4.6/5 on Google for 2,800 reviews), known as the ‘Devil’s Mouth’. The charming market town of Bakewell, famous for its almond pudding, is also well worth a visit. Don’t miss the majestic Chatsworth House (Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1PP, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 25,000 reviews), a sumptuous historic residence surrounded by exceptional landscaped gardens.
15. Canterbury, a city of pilgrimage
A medieval city with an exceptional heritage, Canterbury is dominated by its majestic cathedral, one of the oldest and most important Christian churches in England. Canterbury Cathedral (Cathedral House, 11 The Precincts, Canterbury CT1 2EH, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 16,000 reviews), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been the seat of the Archbishop Primate of England since 597. A pilgrimage site since the assassination of Thomas Becket in 1170, it inspired Geoffrey Chaucer’s famous Canterbury Tales.
Canterbury’s medieval centre is largely pedestrianised and can be explored on foot. The Roman and medieval city walls still encircle part of the old town. Stroll along the River Stour, crossed by charming stone bridges, and explore the cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses. Canterbury Tales (St Margaret’s St, Canterbury CT1 2TG, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 4,200 reviews) is an interactive attraction that recreates medieval England and the stories of Chaucer. The ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey (Longport, Canterbury CT1 1TF, rated 4.4/5 on Google for 1,800 reviews) bear witness to the beginnings of Christianity in England.
In conclusion, visiting England reveals a destination of unsuspected richness that goes far beyond clichés. From vibrant metropolises to bucolic villages, medieval castles to spectacular coastal landscapes, each region reveals its own unique character. London and Oxford remain must-sees for discovering British history and culture, while the Cotswolds and the Lake District offer unforgettable nature escapes. History buffs will be delighted by Stonehenge, Bath or Canterbury, and lovers of the sea will find what they’re looking for in Cornwall or Brighton. For the ultimate discovery experience, don’t hesitate to use the Navaway audio tours available for London, Oxford and Liverpool, which will allow you to explore these fascinating cities on your own. Whether you’re planning a weekend away or a longer stay, England has some memorable experiences in store for you.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit England?
The best time to visit England is from May to September, when the temperatures are mildest and the days longest. July and August are the hottest months, but also the most popular with tourists. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer an excellent compromise, with fewer crowds and magnificent scenery. Always pack a mackintosh and umbrella, as rain can come at any time of year.
How many days does it take to visit England?
To discover the essentials of England, allow at least a week. Allow 3-4 days for London, then a further 3-4 days to visit two or three other regions such as Oxford, Bath and the Cotswolds. For a more in-depth exploration, including the north of England (Lake District, York, Liverpool), two weeks are ideal. A 10-day stay provides a good balance between the must-sees and a few escapades in the English countryside.
Do I need to hire a car to visit England?
It all depends on your itinerary. If you only want to visit the major cities such as London, Oxford, Cambridge or Liverpool, public transport is excellent and sufficient. On the other hand, to explore rural areas such as the Cotswolds, the Lake District or Cornwall, a car is strongly recommended for greater freedom and autonomy. Be careful, you drive on the left in England! The roads are generally well maintained, but the small country roads can be narrow and winding.
What documents do I need to visit England?
Since Brexit, EU nationals must present a valid passport to enter the UK. An identity card is no longer sufficient. No visa is required for a tourist stay of less than 6 months. Check that your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. You should also take out travel insurance, as the European Health Insurance Card is no longer valid in the UK.
What currency is used in England?
England uses the pound sterling (£ or GBP). A word of advice: avoid changing your money at airports where the rates are unfavourable. Bank cards are widely accepted everywhere, but check the exchange charges applied by your bank for payments outside the euro zone. Some online banks offer free cards abroad. For small expenses, it may be useful to carry a little cash, particularly in rural villages or small shops.
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