12 Most Beautiful Places To Visit in England

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Wondering where to visit in England? Having lived in the country all my life, I’ve explored my fair share of the UK. There’s a lot to see and so much beauty – here are my favourite places and top tips!

If you are looking for a new adventure, there are so many beautiful places to visit in England – from the countryside to small towns. Places like the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and the Cotswolds are a must-see in England and can be much less crowded.

So, why not go north instead of south? England is full of beautiful sites and villages that will make your visit unforgettable.

So, if you’re looking for a change of scenery, why not try visiting these 13 beautiful places to visit in England?

12 Incredible places to visit in England

England is a country with so much to offer. From the bustling metropolis of London to the quaint seaside town of Brighton. The people are friendly, there are plenty of cultures to explore, and the countryside provides unparalleled beauty.

If you’re looking for some of the most beautiful places to visit in England, here are a few that might pique your interest.

1. The Jurassic Coast, Dorset

The Jurassic Coast is one of the most famous and easily accessible geological wonders in the world. It’s also one of the most spectacular coastlines in England. 

The World Heritage Site stretches for 143 miles from Exmouth to Studland Bay. It follows a line of chalk cliffs that are up to 200 meters high. The rocks here have been around since before dinosaurs roamed this earth. 

If you view them from out on the ocean, you can see the layers of stone that show how much time has passed. Naturally, they are home to an abundance of fossils. 

The Jurassic Coast is also home to some of Britain’s most iconic landmarks such as Golden Cap and Lulworth Cove, in Dorset. Lulworth is a fabulous circular bay with a little opening out to the ocean. It’s a great place to visit with the family. 

The Golden Cap is located between Bridport and Charmouth in Dorset. It’s the highest point on England’s southern coastline. The cliff rises to 191 meters and provides spectacular panoramas across the Isle of Portland and Dartmoor.

Of course, when talking about the Jurassic Coast, you can’t forget about Durdle Door. The magnificent limestone arch is located near Lulworth.

It’s arguably one of the most photographed spots in the area and one of the best places to visit in England. It’s a must-see when visiting the Jurassic Coast.

✅ Discover the best places to stay near Dorset

2. Robin Hood’s Bay, Yorkshire

Robin Hood’s Bay is a small fishing and smuggling village. It’s located on the coast of North Yorkshire – near the fantastic city of York and around 25 miles north of Whitby and 1 mile south of Staithes.

It has been inhabited for more than 1000 years. Its harbour still provides a haven for fishermen from all over the world. 

The bay itself is a perfect horseshoe with two sandy beaches. Its sheltered location means even when there are big waves out on the open ocean, the bay can still be calm. 

It was named after Robin Hood because of its shape – it resembles an archer’s bow. Also, legend has it, that the famous British outlaw battled pirates here, stole their treasure and redistributed it to the village poor.

Robin Hood’s Bay is a maze of traditional pubs, tiny, winding streets, cosy cottages with floral hedgerows and beautiful waterfront views.

It’s a must-see in England and just exploring this stunning treasure trove of old passageways could easily take hours. Plus, don’t forget to explore the surrounding hiking trails. 

You can walk to the nearby village of Ravenscar, trek through the smuggler’s cove of Boggle Hole, hike the 7 miles to Whitby (there are also several bus routes), or just explore the beautiful moorland and wander along the quiet beaches. It’s stunning scenery and some of the best hikes in the UK.

You can also explore the Robin Hood’s Bay Museum, Old St Stephen’s Church, and the Old Coastguard Station which explores what has been discovered beneath the waves.

✅ Discover the best place to stay near Robins Hoods Bay

Top Tip: There is no access by car down into the old village. There are car parks at the top of the bank, and you have to walk the steep path down… and back up again!

3. The Lake District, Cumbria

The Lake District is one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring natural landscapes. It’s one of the most serene places to visit in England.

If you’re looking for a great break away from the hustle and bustle of life, then this is your destination.

The National Park is located in Cumbria in the northwest of the country. It’s mostly known for its glacial ribbon lakes, rugged fell mountains, idyllic countryside villages, and historical importance, particularly with British literacy.

There are loads of things to do in the Lake District. It’s perfect for a couple of day’s worth of exploring. It’s also one of the best weekend getaways in the UK.

From walking through some of England’s most beautiful scenery to taking photos that will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into another world.

A few of the Lake District’s top attractions include the spectacular Lake Buttermere, William Wordsworth’s former home Dove Cottage, Whinlatter Forest Park – the UK’s only mountain forest -, and the Castlerigg stone circle which is like a miniature Stonehenge.

You can also see the UK’s most haunted castle, ride a traditional steam train, and sample the most incredible gingerbread.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Lake District

4. Norfolk

I have so many memories of Norfolk as a child and I went there on countless school trips. I’ll always remember the beautiful coastline and taking a boat out to Blakeney Point to see the seals. 

Located in East Anglia, Norfolk borders Lincolnshire, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, my home county.

It’s honestly one of the most beautiful places to visit in England, whether you want to explore, take in some culture or just relax. From sandy beaches to rolling hills, Norfolk has something for everyone.

I recommend visiting some of these places::

• A trip to Blakeney Point – Hop on a boat at Morston Quay and visit England’s largest grey seal colony. You can also find plenty of other wildlife at Blakeney such as nesting avocets, lapwings and water voles.
• Wells Next the Sea Beach – A must-see if you are visiting this area. This beach is known for its colourful beach huts overlooking the water.
• Burnham Market – This beautiful village has been referred to as ‘Chelsea-on-Sea’. With its gorgeous selection of boutique shops and tiny cottages, it’s easy to see why.
• Holkham Beach – Featured in the film Shakespeare in Love, this is one of the most popular beaches in the area. A sea (literally) of golden sand, rolling waves and dunes fringed with historic buildings (like the must-see Holkham Hall) and fish and chip shops, Holkham is a perfect beach day. It’s also dog-friendly.
• Rose and Crown, Snettisham – This historic coaching pub serves delicious food with a local twist. With a children’s play area and daily specials list, it’s no wonder it was awarded the Good Pub Guide “UK Pub of the Year 2016.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Norfolk

5. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is a beautiful region and a must-see in England. Located just an hour and a half outside of London, this area has been popular with tourists for centuries. 

Offering picturesque villages, rolling hills, and gorgeous green fields, the Cotswolds have a rich heritage and culture. The name, “Cotswold” has debated origins. However, many believe it comes from the word ‘cot’, meaning ‘sheep enclosure’ and ‘wold’ meaning ‘hills’.

When you look at the rolling green hills that stretch as far as your eye can see and baby lambs in the springtime, it’s easy to see why. 

Just as London is characterised by red double-decker buses, the Cotswolds has almost become its own brand. The area is recognised by its comfortable cottages and quaint, old-English cosiness where nothing has changed since the 50s.

They are the perfect symbol of rural England and are home to some of the prettiest villages in the country.

These include Bibury (labelled the most beautiful village in England), Burford (which Forbes once rated as one of the prettiest places in Europe) and Cirencester (known as the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’).

Also visit Castle Combe (its beauty featured in films such as War Horse and Dr Doolittle), Stanton (famous for its honey-colours buildings) and Stow-on-the-Wold (a trove of antique shop treasures).

Besides exploring the gorgeous villages, another great thing to do in the Cotswolds is to walk the Cotswolds Trail. The 102-mile trail is one of the best hikes in Europe. It runs from the historic city of Bath to Chipping Campden in Gloucestershire.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Cotswolds

6. Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly are an archipelago off the south coast of England, near (but not part of) Cornwall. They consist of over 100 islands and islets.

With their sparkling turquoise waters and spectacular seascapes, they’re a dream destination for any traveller. In summer, they almost resemble the UK’s very own Caribbean islands.

The islands are one of the best places to visit in England; known for their incredible scenery, rich history and wildlife. They’re the smallest AONB designation in the UK and are definitely an English hidden gem.

Here are a few top things to do on the Isles of Scilly:

• Visit Tresco Abbey Gardens – explore this beautiful landscape with ornamental lakes, orchards and woodland walks.
• Take a boat trip around the islands – Island hopping is not just reserved for the likes of Greece and Thailand. Enjoy some stunning views whilst exploring these hidden gems.
• See the beauty of Hugh Town – Located on the largest of the Scilly Isles (but still only has a population of 1800 people) Hugh Town is home to 3 lovely beaches, a Sailing Club, and a Quay and is the gateway to the rest of the islands.
• Visit Bryher Island – Explore Bennet’s Boatyard, hire your own kayak for the day and see some of the UK’s very own tropical beaches. 

✅ Discover the best places to stay on the Isle of Scilly

7. Devon (and Dartmoor National Park)

Devon is a picturesque county located on England’s southwest coast. It’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in England; the cliffs are lined with sheltered coves and sandy beaches.

It has rolling hills dotted with sheep, cosy villages with cobbled streets, and tiny towns like Totnes where time seems to have stopped centuries ago.

People come from around the world to visit this part of England. Mainly for its natural beauty and quaintness—it’s certainly not for the weather (although summer is pleasant).

Devon is an affordable location for any traveller looking to experience some of the most beautiful beaches and countryside in England.

Make sure to visit Dartmoor National Park. This beautiful landscape is home to over 2,000 species of wildlife that live within its borders. You can explore this national park on foot or by bike, but be sure not to miss the iconic tors that dot the horizon.

A few other worthwhile places to visit in Devon are Ilfracombe and Watermouth Castle, Bideford and its historic Pannier Market, the Lynmouth Cliff Railway and the beaches of Westward Ho!, the only place in England with an exclamation mark in its name.

Plus, if you have children, they’ll love the Big Sheep near Westward Ho! – I have so many great memories there from when I was little.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Devon

8. Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

Cambridge is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. Known for its prestigious universities and beautiful architecture, it’s also a great place to visit all year round if you’re looking for fun things to do.

The university city is home to lots of cute shops and cafes. I recommend brunch at Fitzbillies and try out my other favourite places to eat in Cambridge. There’s also scenic architecture, and plenty of interesting people and events, such as the Cambridge Beer Festival on Jesus Green.

You can go punting on the River Cam – an activity that was once used by students as a means of transport – or explore the historic buildings in King’s College Garden.

There are plenty more tourist hotspots too. Don’t miss King’s College Chapel or The Fitzwilliam Museum when you’re there. Trinity College, Wren Library, the Museum of Archeology and Anthropology and the curious Kettle’s Yard are also must-sees. 

If you enjoy nature, the city is surrounded by beautiful green spaces, such as Paradise Nature Reserve or Coe Fen. Check out these other wonderful walks in Cambridgeshire too.

And for lovers of village life, Cambridge is also surrounded by beautiful market towns that are also worth a visit.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Cambridge

9. The Isle of Wight

Another of my favourite childhood destinations, the Isle of Wight brings back so many memories.

Walking the cliff path overlooking the famous Needles; playing crazy golf with my family at Needles Park; strolling along Alum Bay past the colourful cliff faces, and playing Knights in Carisbrooke Castle. I also remember loving the Blackgang Chine Adventure Park.

Located just a short 30-minute ferry ride from Portsmouth, the Isle of Wight is a picturesque place to visit with plenty of things to see and do.

Another of the best places to visit in England, it has beautiful beaches, lush green hillsides, and spectacular castles.

Whether it’s history, culture or nature, there are plenty of attractions to keep you busy and entertained. Make sure not to miss out on visiting Cowes Museum,

Shanklin Old Village (which rivals the beauty of the Cotswolds), the beautiful Shanklin Chine or Ventnor Botanic Gardens while exploring this beautiful island.

Of course, the most famous image of the island is the iconic white chalk stacks of the Needles with the traditional red and white lighthouse at the end. To visit them, you can take a boat trip out to the bay.

You can also see a panoramic view from the cliff walk called the Needles Old Battery. From there, you’ll see stunning views of the white Needles against the deep blue ocean. 

There’s also a chairlift down to Alum Bay and a park at the top of the cliff featuring amusements, fairground rides and a sweet-making factory.

✅ Discover the best places to stay on the Isle of Wight

10. Bath, Somerset

Bath is a small yet historic city in Somerset and the perfect destination for a weekend away. It’s been recognized as one of the best places in England to visit.

It’s compact, with beautiful buildings, unique shops, and everything you need within walking distance of each other.

Bath is known for its Roman history, beautiful churches and Georgian architecture. It’s also home to the only natural hot springs in Britain and many historic buildings, including one of the most beautiful churches in the world – Bath Abbey. 

The former Benedictine monastery was founded in the 7th century. It’s one of the best places to see in England and one of the country’s most historic buildings. The inside is spectacular – make sure to check out the stunning stained-glass windows.

Bath has plenty of attractions for those who want to take it easy and soak up culture and history. For more adventurous travellers, there are also outdoor activities to explore like kayaking on the rivers.

Some of the other best things to do in the city include strolling down the beautiful cobbled streets, such as Green Street, St John’s Place, and Royal Crescent (the most wonderful Georgian buildings in the city). Also, make sure to see Pulteney Bridge and explore the Bath markets.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Bath

11. Oxford, Oxfordshire

The Oxford English Dictionary defines “extraordinary” as something out of the ordinary, unusual and special. There is no place more extraordinary than Oxford.

The city has been home to some of the world’s most well-known scholars over centuries. This includes Sir Isaac Newton and Alfred Russel Wallace.

It’s also one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever visit. The city is best known for being the home of the University of Oxford. It was also the birthplace of Stephen Hawking.

But, Oxford is as culturally rich as it is studious, with beautiful architecture and breathtaking gardens littered throughout its historic centre. There are picturesque views and quaint town squares.

See the very same streets Harry Potter walked when he went to Hogwarts. Visit Pembroke College, where J.R. Tolkien wrote parts of The Lord of the Rings. Or take a stroll through the Botanic Garden with your friends and family.

Make sure to visit Christ Church College, which was founded in 1546. It’s famous for being one of the Harry Potter filming locations.

The UNESCO Site of Blenheim Palace is another must-see along with the Ashmolean Museum (one of Britain’s oldest public museums), the infamous Radcliffe Camera, and the wonderful Magdalene College (which inspired writers like CS Lewis and Oscar Wilde). 

History lovers will adore the Oxford Castle and the stunning Bridge of Sighs. The city is also home to one of the oldest libraries in Europe: Bodleian Library. One of the most wonderful places in England to visit, there’s something in Oxford for everyone.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Oxford

12. London

I just couldn’t write a list of the best places to visit in England and not include London. Although it’s undoubtedly touristy (unless you visit some of the city’s hidden gems), London is the iconic and historical capital of England.

It’s also one of the world’s most popular destinations. It has so much to offer all year round and it can be hard to know where to start. 

It has history, culture, great food, interesting architecture… There are things to do for families, history buffs, lovers of science or art, people who simply love beautiful views and exploring city streets.

London is a city of many, many sights. Some of the best (that you will most likely have already heard of) include the London Eye, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and St Paul’s Cathedral. Children will love the London Dungeons, the Sea Life Centre and Madame Tussauds.

History fans should head to the British Museum, the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey.

For gorgeous cityscapes head to the top of the Shard (where you’ll also find the highest bar in the city). For relaxing green spaces, head to Hampstead Heath, Kensington Gardens, or Hyde Park.

When it comes to great food, the city doesn’t hold back. London has many Michelin-star restaurants. It also has street food stalls for those who want to save their money (I recommend Camden Market).

You can also find traditional British dishes like fish and chips or bangers and mash. As for pubs, there are hundreds of them in London – each with its own personality.

With so much history and culture crammed into one place, like New York, London is a city that never sleeps. From iconic buildings to centuries-old pubs, there’s no shortage of things to see in this bustling metropolis.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in London

Where are the prettiest places to visit in England?

England is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. From rolling hills and green valleys to bustling towns and cities, many different places in England to visit make it a great destination for travellers. However, it can be difficult to know where to go for the best scenery. 

Take London for example. It’s the most famous and exciting city in England. It doesn’t matter what time of year you go, there is always something happening. From Christmas markets in winter to music festivals during the summertime.

There are also plenty of museums that will keep any history buff happy. Although it’s busy, London is beautiful in its own way.

So, think about what YOU think makes a place worth visiting.

Is it the scenery, the interesting culture, or just how much fun you can have there?

For example, there’s Stratford-upon-Avon which is home to Shakespeare’s birthplace and other literacy attractions such as Anne Hathaway’s cottage. Or gems like the Cotswolds that are the image of rustic, rural Britain.

These destinations are some of the best places to go in England. Each one is beautiful, yet what’s one of the most beautiful to one person, might not be to another.

What is the most beautiful countryside in England?

The most beautiful countryside in England is a hotly debated topic. Some people might say the Cotswolds are more beautiful. Others will argue that England’s Yorkshire Dales or Cornwall have the prettiest scenery. 

I’d personally say that the Jurassic Coast has to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in England. With its rocky beaches, a plethora of fossils, ancient submerged forest, and rolling hills it’s hard not to fall in love with this part of Britain.

Plus, it is England’s only Natural World Heritage Site.

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