Things to do in England

The birthplace of Shakespeare, the setting for Harry Potter and the place that gave us the Beatles and Queen, England is a country brimming with culture and art that inspires the rest of the world. There is so much to see in England, its historical and scenic value is immense, and it is well worth exploring a little by little. Many people say that England is grey and sad, but the truth is that it is a country of great beauty, energy and, above all, music. It is world-renowned for its unique style and humour.

In this post we outline the most important and interesting cities to see in England, as well as the most special places to visit, full of magic and charm and true English style.

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Cities to see on your trip to England

London, the must-see city in England

The capital of the country and one of the must-see destinations in England. London is the city of culture, art and architecture. Located in the south of England, this multicultural city is also full of history that is well-preserved in its palaces and museums. Divided by the River Thames, London offers a long list of incredible squares such as Trafalgar Square, unique neighbourhoods such as Camden Town or Notting Hill, and amazing green spaces such as Hyde Park.

Big Ben is one of the most iconic images of the city, as well as one of the main landmarks to see in London. The tower of Big Ben was built in 1858 next to the Palace of Westminster. Tower Bridge is a striking drawbridge, built in the Victorian style, which is located next to the Tower of London and is another of the city’s landmarks.

London’s streets are alive with live music; strolling along its main avenues and markets you’ll find original artists providing the soundtrack to your visit to the city. London’s cultural offerings are wide-ranging and constantly evolving. Soho or Covent Garden are just some of the places that will fill you with the frenetic adrenaline of the English capital.

To find out more about this amazing city, take a look at our post: Things to do in London.

Cambridge, the university city to see in England

Located just an hour from London, and mainly known for its prestigious university, this city is one of the ideal destinations in England. Monuments such as the Church of Saint Mary the Great, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in Cambridge, are the stand-outs. It belongs to the University and has been a key point for the development of the university and the city itself.

Inside King’s College, the campus of one of Cambridge University’s most important colleges, is its impressive chapel. You should also take a stroll down Trinity Street, one of the most famous and busiest streets in Cambridge. Particularly acclaimed for its liveliness, and known by the locals as the High Street.

Find out what else to do in Cambridge: Things to do in Cambridge.

Oxford

This city is home to one of the oldest universities in the world, and for centuries has been a place where royalty and wisdom converge. Oxford’s streets have a distinctive style, steeped in history and modernity, offering visitors a mix of educational buildings and shopping venues.

The Bodleian Library is one of the must-see places in Oxford, as it is one of the oldest libraries on the entire European continent. It is also important because it is the main reference for scientific research in England, if not the world. It is also famous for having been the filming location for some of the scenes in Harry Potter, due to its impressive medieval architecture and decoration.

Christ Church College is also the most prestigious university college, having been the home of some of Britain’s leading political figures. It is also the inspiration for the Great Hall in Harry Potter, which gives it extra charm.

Birmingham

Known as the heart of the Midlands, Birmingham is a picturesque English city that is a must-see on your tour of England. Birmingham has many buildings from the Industrial Revolution that will take you back in time. It also boasts an extensive network of canals running from Sherborne Quay, surrounded by cafes where you can appreciate all the city’s charm. Victoria Square is a pedestrianised square and one of the key places to see in Birmingham. The square is a meeting place and landmark as it is home to some of the city’s most important buildings, such as the Town Hall.

The Jewellery Quarter is a centrally located neighbourhood that retains its industrial flair thanks to the old factories. Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter should be on any travel itinerary as it is home to a large group of jewellery businesses that are considered national treasures. Likewise, Digbeth is one of the most distinctive parts of the city, recently recognised as Britain’s coolest neighbourhood by the Sunday Times, praising it for its cafes, alternative shops, cinemas and arts venues.

Manchester

Manchester is one of the most important cities in England and the best known in the north of the country. It was the textile engine of the country and is recognised for its great industrial value. It also has multiple spaces, monuments and museums to see and appreciate. In addition, this city will take you back in time with its 18th century canal system that add to Manchester’s character.

The Northern Quarter is the urban and creative heart of Manchester and is home to countless independent fashion shops. Oldham Street, on the other hand, is the main street crossing this famous neighbourhood and one of the busiest. The Gay Village is a must-see for any visitor to Manchester. Located just south of Chinatown, along and around Canal Street, the Village is both the party district and a living piece of social history, proof that Manchester is one of the world’s leading gay-friendly cities.

If you want to know what else you can see in Manchester, don’t miss our post: Things to do in Manchester.

Liverpool

Also known as the city of The Beatles, this city has a great cultural and historical value around every corner, from iconic monuments to interesting museums. Located in the North West of England, Liverpool is one of the most visited cities in the country. Being on the coast, it is one of the most important ports in Europe.

Albert Dock is arguably the most iconic sight to see in Liverpool. It is Liverpool’s most famous dock, and has some of the city’s most attractive sights. It is home to much of Liverpool’s industrial past. Whether you’re a big Beatles fan or not, you can’t miss a visit to the very interesting Beatles museum where you can learn about the history of one of the world’s most famous bands.

Bristol

Near the River Avon, you can find one of the most incredible treasures in the south of England. Bristol is a city you will love from the first moment you arrive. If you are interested in seeing Bristol’s oldest and most important religious temple, its Cathedral is surely the best choice, as it was built over 900 years ago, making it the oldest cathedral in England.

With a history dating back to 1622, Queen Square is one of Bristol’s oldest and most iconic landmarks. Located in the university area of Bristol, Brandon Hill is the oldest park in the city, and here you’ll find Cabot Tower, which you can enter for free and appreciate the wonderful views it offers.

Find out more about Bristol: Things to do in Bristol.

Brighton

Brighton, a beautiful seaside town, has become an ideal getaway for those who want to get leave the hustle and bustle of London life. Wander the streets, discover the alternative shops and businesses and enjoy the beach, the warm temperatures and the fantastic atmosphere.

Of all the places to see in Brighton, the most popular is probably The Palace Pier. This late 19th century marvel, measuring over 500 metres in length, is the third ‘recreational’ pier to be built in Brighton. it is practically a theme park full to the brim with a joyous atmosphere, restaurants and bars.

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Most charming places to see in England

Seven Sisters Cliffs

The southern coast of England has an adundance of spectacular cliffs, most notably the Seven Sisters near Seaford in East Sussex. The cliffs stretch for more than six kilometres, and the beauty of their white rock has filled poems and songs for centuries. The magnificent white Seven Sisters cliffs are a world-famous image of the English coastline. For the best views, head to Seaford Head looking east towards the River Cuckmere.

Stratford-upon-Avon

To be or not to be? Stratford-upon-Avon is the birthplace of Shakespeare, and it’s where you can discover the story of the world’s most famous playwright. You can also take the opportunity to immerse yourself in a picturesque market town, full of delights for the senses.

You must see the Royal Shakespeare Theatre when visiting the town. Walking through Stratford-upon-Avon is like walking through the pages of a history book, passing the houses associated with William Shakespeare and his family. At The Birthplace, New Place and the beautiful Hall’s Croft you can learn about Shakespeare’s humble beginnings, the home where he spent his childhood and the early years of his marriage to Anne.

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is the epitome of the English countryside, with its limestone hills and cottages, its beauty and its excellent preservation. Adjectives common to all the Cotswolds villages, which grew out of the boom in wool production and trade between the 13th and 15th centuries. Hence their names: cots (sheep) and wolds (hills). In all of them you will find natural landscapes typical of the countryside, coloured in the most intense green. This region stretches across six counties in England and the whole area is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Some of the most beautiful villages in the area include:

• Bibury
• Snowshill
• Broadway
• Castle Combe
• Chipping Campden
• Stow on the Wold
• Bourton-on-the-water
• Upper and Lower Slaughter

Canterbury, the most charming town in England

It is a picturesque little town, full of charming spots. Its main attraction is Canterbury Cathedral, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988, along with St. Augustine’s Abbey and St. Martin’s Church. In addition, its charming streets, with perfectly preserved English-style facades, make this town a special place. All in all, a must-see in England!

Isle of Wight

Of all the islands to see in England, the Isle of Wight is the largest. It is separated from the south of the island of Great Britain by the Solent Strait. About 140,000 inhabitants live on this island where they coexist with nature. There are miles of unspoilt coastline on this island and every summer one of the best music festivals in the UK takes place here: the Isle of Wight Festival.

What to see in England in 7 days?

England is a country with many interesting destinations to see and landscapes to enjoy, so it’s impossible to see them all in one trip. However, here is a 7-day itinerary for you to discover the true essence of this country and marvel at this selection of the most impressive places to see in England.

• 1 and 2: London
• 3: Cambridge
• 4: Oxford
• 5: Stratford-upon-Avon
• 6: Brighton
• 7: Seven Sisters y Canterbury

Tips for your trip to England

• England is known for its wet climate, so remember to pack warm clothes, whatever time of year you go.
• Don’t forget to bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella.
• Remember that in England, sockets are usually three-slot, so an adaptor will be your best ally during your trip to England.
• Although it is a safe country, be careful with your belongings in the more touristy places, especially in cities like London.
• Remember that the currency in England is pounds sterling. Don’t forget to change euros at your bank or at a bureau de change once you have arrived in England.

Frequently asked questions about travelling to England