England is a country of contrasts ; from vibrant cities to peaceful villages, dramatic coastlines to rolling green hills. Whether you love history, nature, or a cozy pub lunch, here’s your guide to the best places to visit in England, plus how to stay connected with Orange Travel eSIM.
London: The Capital of Culture and Contrasts
No trip to England is complete without experiencing London, one of the world’s most dynamic and diverse capitals.
Highlights:
- Iconic landmarks: Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament
- World-class museums: The British Museum and National Gallery (both free!)
- Strolls along the Thames, from Tower Bridge to Southbank
- Shopping in Covent Garden and browsing Camden or Borough Market
You could spend days in London and still discover something new around every corner.
Bath: Roman Elegance and Georgian Charm
Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage city famous for its natural hot springs and stunning architecture.
Top things to do:
- Explore the ancient Roman Baths
- Admire Bath Abbey and the sweeping Royal Crescent
- Relax at Thermae Bath Spa with rooftop views
- Walk through the world of Jane Austen
Perfect for history lovers and spa seekers alike.
Oxford & Cambridge: Cities of Knowledge
These two university towns are among England’s most beautiful and intellectual destinations.
In Oxford:
- Visit the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College
- Punt along the River Thames
- Wander covered markets and charming bookshops
In Cambridge:
- Tour King’s College Chapel
- Go punting on the River Cam
- Enjoy the peaceful Botanic Garden
Both cities are full of tradition, beauty, and student energy.
The Lake District: A Paradise for Nature Lovers
Set in Cumbria, the Lake District National Park is ideal for hiking, boating, and breathtaking views.
Best experiences:
- Climb Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak
- Cruise across Lake Windermere
- Explore Keswick and Ambleside
- Discover landscapes that inspired Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter
Perfect for outdoor adventures and peaceful escapes.
Cornwall: Rugged Coastlines and Surf Spirit
Cornwall, in England’s far southwest, is known for its dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and charming villages.
Don’t miss:
- The artistic town of St Ives
- Mythical Tintagel Castle, linked to King Arthur
- Surfing at Newquay
- Scenic walks along the South West Coast Path
- Tasting Cornish pasties and clotted cream teas
York: Step Back in Time
York is one of England’s best-preserved medieval cities, packed with history.
Top attractions:
- The Gothic York Minster cathedral
- Walk the ancient city walls
- Wander The Shambles, said to inspire Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley
- Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre
A city rich with stories from Roman, Viking, and Victorian eras.
Brighton: Seaside Fun with Bohemian Flair
Just an hour from London, Brighton is a colorful, creative city by the sea.
What to do:
- Visit the exotic Royal Pavilion
- Enjoy arcades and views on Brighton Pier
- Explore vintage shops in The Lanes
- Relax on the pebble beach with classic fish & chips
A top pick for weekend escapes and lively seaside energy.
The Cotswolds: Quintessential English Countryside
For postcard-perfect villages and gentle hills, the Cotswolds are unbeatable.
Must-sees:
- Stone cottages in Bibury and Castle Combe
- Afternoon tea in Stow-on-the-Wold
- Walks along the Cotswold Way
- Local markets, antiques, and cozy pubs
A peaceful break in a timeless landscape.
The Peak District: Outdoor Adventure and Scenic Beauty
Located in central England, the Peak District National Park is a haven for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers.
What to do:
- Walk or cycle the Monsal Trail
- Explore charming villages like Bakewell
- Visit Chatsworth House, known as the “Palace of the Peak”
- Enjoy dramatic views from Stanage Edge
Stonehenge: Mysteries of the Ancient World
Set in Wiltshire, Stonehenge is one of the world’s most iconic prehistoric monuments.
Experience:
- Marvel at the ancient stone circle
- Visit the interactive visitor centre
- Join a guided tour to learn about its mysteries
Liverpool: Music, Maritime, and Cultural Heritage
Liverpool is famous for its waterfront, music scene, and vibrant culture.
Highlights:
- The Beatles Story museum
- Albert Dock and the Merseyside Maritime Museum
- Tate Liverpool for contemporary art
- Catch live music in the Cavern Quarter
Stratford-upon-Avon: The Home of Shakespeare
This picturesque town is the birthplace of William Shakespeare.
Things to do:
- Tour Shakespeare’s Birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
- See a play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre
- Walk along the River Avon
The Jurassic Coast: Fossil Hunting and Coastal Wonders
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast stretches along Dorset and East Devon.
Explore:
- Fossil hunting at Lyme Regis
- Marvel at Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove
- Walk the South West Coast Path for stunning sea views
Brighton’s Neighbours: The Seven Sisters and South Downs
Not far from Brighton, the chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters offer breathtaking coastal scenery.
Don’t miss:
- Hikes along the cliff-top trails
- Relax at Birling Gap beach
- Explore South Downs National Park
Special Experiences Across England
- Festivals: Attend the Jane Austen Festival in Bath or the Lake District Summer Music Festival
- Food & Drink: Try regional specialties like Bakewell pudding, Yorkshire tea, and Cornish ice cream
- Gardens: Visit the Eden Project in Cornwall or the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew
- Castles: Explore Alnwick Castle (as seen in Harry Potter) or Warwick Castle for interactive history
Travel Tips for Exploring England
- Getting Around: England’s extensive rail and bus network makes it easy to visit multiple regions
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and early autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds
- Local Etiquette: Try a Sunday roast at a country pub and don’t forget to say “cheers”
Stay Connected Across England with Orange Travel eSIM
Wherever your travels take you from London’s underground to the peaks of the Lake District staying online is easy with Orange Travel eSIM United Kingdom.
With Orange Travel eSIM, you can:
- Get data instantly upon arrival
- Use calls, SMS, and internet with no roaming fees
- Skip physical SIM cards and in-store visits
- Stay connected from city to countryside
Need help setting it up? Check out:
- How to set up eSIM on your phone: a quick guide
- How to stay connected while traveling
- What is dual eSIM? Benefits and how it works
England awaits; with history, scenery, and adventure at every turn. Happy travels!
