ENGLAND
One of the most popular travel destinations in the world, England offers almost endless possibilities for vacationers seeking fun things to do and top attractions to visit.Part of the beautiful British Isles, this small but influential country bursts with fascinating history, exciting cities, and rich cultural traditions. Historic sites are at every turn, from prehistoric megaliths and ancient Roman sites to centuries-old castles and town centers dating back to the Middle Ages.
To help you get the most out of your travel itinerary, be sure to use our list of the best places to visit in England.
1. Stonehenge
Stonehenge, 10 miles north of the historic city of Salisbury on Salisbury Plain, is Europe’s best-known prehistoric monument. It’s so popular that visitors need to purchase a timed ticket in advance to guarantee entry.
2. Tower of London
Prison, palace, treasure vault, observatory, and menagerie: the Tower of London has done it all and it’s one of the top attractions in London. Widely considered the most important building in England, there’s enough to see and do at this World Heritage Site to keep visitors busy for hours.
3. The Roman Baths and Georgian City of Bath
If you only have time to visit one smaller city in England, you couldn’t do much better than Bath. This remarkably beautiful city in Somerset boasts more fantastic tourist attractions than you could hope to visit in a day.
4. The British Museum
With collections of antiquities that are among the world’s finest, the British Museum holds more than 13 million artifacts from Assyria, Babylonia, Egypt, Greece, the Roman Empire, China, and Europe. The most famous ancient artifacts are the Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon in Athens, as well as the famous Rosetta Stone.
5. York Minster and Historic Yorkshire
The magnificent York Minster is second in importance in the Church of England only to the cathedral at Canterbury. It stands in the center of historic York, surrounded by half-timbered homes and shops, medieval guildhalls, and churches.In turn, York’s romantic streets are surrounded by three miles of magnificent town walls that you can walk atop for spectacular views over the city and its surroundings. While here, visit the National Railway Museum, one of England’s most visited tourist attractions.
6. Windsor Castle
England is a country that’s deeply rooted in tradition, history, pageantry, and pomp. Little surprise, then, that some of the biggest draws for tourists here revolve around the Royal Family, who have played an important role in shaping the country – along with many other parts of the world – for centuries. Windsor Castle is famous as one of the Royal Family’s official residences, and throws its doors open to visitors regularly when the Queen is away. And it’s rich in history, able to trace its roots all the way back to the 11th century, when a triumphant William the Conqueror had a fortress erected on this very spot.
7. Chester Zoo
Located in Upton, just over a mile north of Chester city center, Chester Zoo is England’s most visited attraction outside of London and is one of the best places to visit in England for families. The more than 11,000 animals living in this 125-acre site represent about 400 different species. But the zoo’s appeal reaches beyond just animal lovers, with prizewinning landscaped gardens also available for visitors to enjoy.
8. Lake District National Park
Covering some 900 square miles, Lake District National Park is a must-visit destination for travelers to England. With 12 of the country’s largest lakes and more than 2,000 miles of rights of way waiting to be explored, there’s little wonder the region continues to inspire, with its magnificent views and scenery straight out of a painting.
9. Canterbury Cathedral
Located in the heart of the historic city that bears its name, Canterbury Cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is home to the Archbishop of Canterbury and is the cradle of English Christianity. It all started when St. Augustine converted the pagan Anglo Saxons here in 597 when he became the first bishop. Excellent guided tours of the cathedral are available, and for a truly memorable experience, consider booking an overnight stay in the grounds at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge.
10. Liverpool & The Beatles
As English as an afternoon tea, references to The Beatles are everywhere in Liverpool. Located in the northwest of the country, Liverpool is around three hours from London by rail, and offers music fans plenty of opportunities to soak up some city sites, along with Fab-Four-related attractions. Topping your list should be The Beatles Story. Located in the revitalized Albert Dock area of the city, this fun museum features enough facts and exhibits to keep the biggest fans busy for hours.