Regions of England
You needn’t travel far outside of London to be transported to the spectacular natural beauty and rich historical folklore that is England.
North West
From the solace of lakes to panoramic views along mountain peaks, it’s easy to see why the North West region is an outdoor-enthusiast’s Eden. Here’s where you’ll discover:
- The mountainous terrain (fells) of the Lake District National Park, or as the locals call it, Lakeland.
- A spiritual connection where writers such as William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, John Ruskin, and Beatrix Potter found their inspiration.
- The young, diverse, energetic Manchester, known as the birthplace of the industrial revolution, and home to the beloved Manchester United football club.
- The cool boutique shops of the bohemian Northern Quarter.
North East
Remote and breathtaking, delightfully quaint market towns, endless golden beaches, and a plethora of ancient Roman, Viking and Norman monuments. Sights to see include:
- Hadrian’s Wall which marked the northern limit of Roman Britain and was the empire’s most heavily fortified line. Today it offers a wide variety of easy loop walks.
- Barnard Castle, a market town brimming with antique shops and atmospheric old pubs that hosts the remains of Barnard Castle itself.
- Drive the Northumberland coast from Newbiggin-by-the-sea to Berwick-upon-Tweed.
- Farne Islands, a National Trust maintained nature reserve and summer home to hundreds of thousands of migrating seabirds and the only grey seal colony on the British Isles.
South West
Where the past blends effortlessly with the present: mythical, iconic stone circles, Iron Age hill forts, and Roman baths. Discover the Myths of King Arthur, Alfred the Great, and geography that embodies the writings of Thomas Hardy, Jane Austen, and Daphne du Maurier. The Southwest region includes:
- The best surfing spots, exquisite bays, sweeping sandy beaches, and imposing rock formations.
- The Eden Project displaying the diversity of the planet’s plant life in a highly unique way.
- Highclere Castle, home of Downton Abbey.
- Glastonbury, known for its muddy music festivals, lies in the heart of the Isle of Avalon - mystical associations, Glastonbury Abbey.
South East
Often referred to as the Garden of England, Southeast England offers country houses, fairytale castles, gentle sweeping hills, narrow country lanes, verdant meadows, and quaint low ceilinged pubs. Here’s where you’ll find:
- Sandwich; one of the best preserved medieval towns in the country.
- Countless castles including Leeds Castle, Bodiam Castle, and Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn.
- Lullingstone Roman Villa.
- Isle of Wight: favorite holiday location for Tennyson, Dickens, and Queen Victoria herself.
- Broadstairs, a charming Victorian fishing village, where Charles Dickens finished writing David Copperfield.
Yorkshire
Rolling hills, scenic valleys, high moors, and cliff lined coast. Many enjoy hiking, biking, surfing, and rock climbing.
- When visiting Leeds enjoy shopping, industrial archaeology, and stately homes.
- Hike Malhamdale – one of the National Park’s most popular areas and check out Malham Cove, Malham Tarn, and Gordale Scar.
- Visit Beverley Minster nestled in a tangle of old streets, cobbled lanes, and elegant Victorian terraces.
- Explore York Minster, Britain's largest Gothic building and home to a myriad of treasures. Walk the city’s Roman walls.
Birmingham and the Midlands
The very heart of the country featuring quaint cobbled villages, the legend of Robin Hood, and stately homes. Enjoy sights such as:
- Birmingham, Britain’s second city, featuring impressive architecture and bustling, exciting nightlife.
- Notable castles including Kenilworth Castle, Stoneleigh Abbey, and Warwick Castle.
- Nottingham, forever associated with Robin Hood and notably one of best looking squares in England.
- And with Birmingham being the curry capital of the country, don’t forget to enjoy some.
Cambridge and East Anglia
Wide skies and flat landscapes that inspired the artists like Constable and Gainsborough. Enjoy broad sandy beaches, tiny flintstones villages, and pretty fishing villages. Cambridge and East Anglia are known for:
- Canoeing, boating, cycling, and birdwatching in Norfolk and Suffolk.
- The Aldeburgh Festival featuring a classical music festival that takes place every summer.
- The Sandringham Estate – Queen Elizabeth’s Norfolk retreat.
- Cambridge University where you can join a guided tour.
Oxford and The Cotswolds
As close to “old world” England as you could hope for with rolling hills, rose clad cottages, graceful stone churches, and thatched roofs. Some famous sights include:
- Oxford University guided tours.
- Vale of White Horse, cloaked in ancient myths and mysteries.
- The picture book villages of The Cotswolds: Woolstone, Northleach, Winchcombe, Kingham, and Great Tew.
