12 Most Beautiful Places in England to Visit (Must See in 2025)

England never fails to amaze me. Beyond London’s iconic skyline lies a country packed with rolling hills, dramatic coastlines, and villages that look straight out of a storybook. Every time I explore, I find another place that makes me fall in love with this country all over again!

From the wild beauty of the Lake District to the stunning cliffs of Cornwall, these are the most beautiful places to visit in England that capture its magic. Let me share my 12 favorite spots that prove there’s so much more to discover beyond the capital!

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to England

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your English adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to London for just $320 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save by buying meals or ingredients from supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Aldi. The meal deal options are fantastic – you can get a sandwich, snack, and drink for around £3-4. At supermarkets, you’ll find ready-to-eat meals, sandwiches, and salads for under £5.
• Transport: I recommend getting a BritRail Pass if you’re planning to explore multiple cities – it’s saved me hundreds on train travel. In London, grab an Oyster card and load a 7-day pass for unlimited travel. Outside London, most cities have day passes for their local buses that offer great value.

England may have a reputation for being one of Europe’s pricier destinations. With these money-saving strategies, you can explore this fascinating country at a much lower cost. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in England:

1. The Cotswolds

• 📍 Location: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire
• 🏆 Best For: Cottagecore vibes 🏡, scenic drives 🚗, countryside lovers 🌾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling through Bibury, visiting Sudeley Castle, shopping in Broadway
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for sunny walks and garden blooms 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Lygon Arms – Elegant coaching inn with a spa and historic charm

The Cotswolds is as close to a real-life fairy tale as you can get in England. Think rolling hills, old stone cottages, and villages that feel untouched by time. The landscapes are peaceful, and the air smells like fresh grass and warm bread from local bakeries.

One of the best ways to experience it is on foot, exploring through trails that pass ancient churches, wildflower fields, and the occasional herd of sheep. Bibury and Castle Combe are worth a stop, especially if you’re into picture-perfect views and cozy tea shops.

But it’s not just about the scenery. You’ll find award-winning pubs, local cheeses, and family-run boutiques that give the region its soul. Whether you’re exploring manor gardens or relaxing in a historic inn, the Cotswolds gives you a quiet, beautiful break from the world.

2. Lake District National Park

• 📍 Location: Cumbria, Northwest England
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🏞️, hikers 🥾, literary fans 📚
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Scafell Pike, cruising Lake Windermere, visiting Dove Cottage
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for warm hikes and boat rides 🚤
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Samling Hotel – Luxury lakeside retreat with panoramic views

The Lake District is where England’s landscapes go full cinematic. Towering mountains, quiet forests, and glassy lakes create a backdrop that feels almost unreal. It’s a place where you can lace up your boots for a proper hike or find a grassy spot to read beside the water.

Villages like Grasmere, Ambleside, and Keswick bring character to the region. You can visit Beatrix Potter’s former home, browse bookstores, or explore spots that inspired Wordsworth. The combination of nature and literature adds something timeless to the area.

Even if hiking isn’t your thing, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy it. Go for a boat ride, sip tea at a lakeside café, or explore gardens tucked between the hills. It’s a place that slows you down and pulls you in with every turn.

3. Cornwall

• 📍 Location: Southwestern England
• 🏆 Best For: Beachgoers 🏖️, surfers 🌊, history lovers 🏰
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting St. Ives, exploring St. Michael’s Mount, surfing in Newquay
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for the best beach weather ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Artist Residence Cornwall – Eclectic boutique hotel in Penzance

Cornwall delivers coastlines that feel both wild and peaceful at once. You’ll find dramatic cliffs, surf-friendly beaches, and quiet coves that reward those who wander off the beaten path. It’s where ancient myths meet ocean breezes and the air smells faintly of sea salt and wildflowers.

Beyond the beaches, there’s a strong creative energy in towns like St. Ives. Art galleries, local markets, and harbor cafés keep things lively, while spots like Tintagel Castle add a deeper historic touch. You can also visit the Minack Theatre, a cliffside amphitheater with ocean views.

Nature here is no afterthought. You can walk coastal trails, explore the Eden Project’s futuristic domes, or head inland to see windswept moors and gardens. Cornwall is where you can feel both relaxed and wide awake at the same time.

4. Bath

• 📍 Location: Somerset, Southwest England
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏛️, spa seekers 💦, architecture fans 🏗️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Roman Baths, soaking in Thermae Spa, walking the Royal Crescent
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for mild weather and fewer crowds 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Indigo Bath – Stylish rooms near major attractions

Bath blends ancient Roman ruins with Georgian elegance in a way few cities can match. Its honey-colored stone buildings, curved terraces, and historic charm make walking around feel like stepping into a classic period film. Even the streets look like they’ve been curated.

The Roman Baths are the star, but there’s more under the surface. Soak in rooftop pools at Thermae Bath Spa or browse indie shops and cafes tucked into winding lanes. Bath Abbey and the Pulteney Bridge are perfect for your photo roll, but it’s the atmosphere that really sticks.

Whether you’re here for a spa weekend, a history dive, or a scenic stop on your UK trip, Bath delivers a little luxury with a lot of character. It’s easy to slow down here and just enjoy the view around every corner.

• Read next: Unique Restaurants in Bath

5. Cambridge

• 📍 Location: Cambridgeshire, East England
• 🏆 Best For: 🎓 Scholars, 📷 photographers, 🛶 river cruisers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Punting on the River Cam, touring King’s College Chapel, strolling The Backs
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for warm weather and college gardens in bloom 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: University Arms Hotel – Elegant stay overlooking Parker’s Piece

Cambridge feels like a place where the past and present actually hang out together. You’ve got ivy-covered colleges, quiet courtyards, and some of the prettiest architecture in the country. The vibe is intellectual but not intimidating, and the whole city seems built for wandering.

Punting on the River Cam is the classic experience. Whether you try rowing yourself or let a guide do the work, it’s the best way to glide past the famous colleges and under beautiful bridges. On a sunny afternoon, this is where Cambridge really comes alive.

Off the water, the Botanic Garden is a chill spot for a nature break, while places like Fitzbillies offer sweet treats and a true local feel. Whether you’re visiting for the history or just want a break from faster-paced cities, Cambridge makes it easy to slow down and take it all in.

6. York

• 📍 Location: North Yorkshire, Northern England
• 🏆 Best For: History fans 🏰, medieval lovers 🧙, cultural explorers 🗺️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring York Minster, walking the city walls, browsing The Shambles
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for mild weather and fewer crowds 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Dean Court Hotel – Cozy hotel right next to York Minster with historic views

York is the kind of place where you can walk through centuries in a single afternoon. Cobbled streets, timber-framed buildings, and ancient walls give the whole city a storybook feel. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, it’s easy to get pulled into its atmosphere.

Start with a walk along the medieval city walls, which wrap around the center and give great views of rooftops and towers. Then head to York Minster, one of Europe’s most beautiful cathedrals, filled with stained glass and gothic architecture that takes your breath away.

Don’t skip The Shambles, a narrow street that feels straight out of a fantasy novel. From ghost tours to tea rooms to museums full of Viking history, York packs a lot into its small footprint. It’s one of those cities that stays with you long after you leave.

7. The Peak District

• 📍 Location: Central England, mainly in Derbyshire
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, outdoor lovers 🌄, weekend adventurers 🧭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Mam Tor, visiting Chatsworth House, exploring Bakewell
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for great trail conditions and blooming scenery 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Cavendish Hotel, Baslow – Elegant countryside hotel near Chatsworth with garden views

The Peak District feels like it was made for getting outside and clearing your head. With wide-open hills, craggy ridgelines, and valleys full of sheep and stone walls, it’s a favorite for hikers and road trippers looking to unplug.

Mam Tor is one of the most iconic hikes and gives sweeping views after a relatively short climb. If you’re into architecture, Chatsworth House is a must-see with its grand gardens and stately rooms. Bakewell, the nearby market town, is famous for its pudding and small-town charm.

Whether you’re after a day of climbing or a picnic by a river, this national park delivers peace and adventure in equal measure. The vibe is laid-back but full of opportunity, and there’s always a pub waiting at the end of a long trail.

8. Brighton

• 📍 Location: East Sussex, South Coast of England
• 🏆 Best For: Seaside escapes 🏖️, creatives 🎨, weekend trips 🎡
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the Brighton Palace Pier, touring the Royal Pavilion, shopping in North Laine
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for beach weather and festivals 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Artist Residence Brighton – Trendy boutique hotel with sea views and quirky design

Brighton is the kind of city that feels alive the moment you arrive. With pebble beaches, indie cafés, and a pier packed with vintage fun, it’s a classic British seaside town with a cool, artsy twist. The ocean breeze and open boardwalks make it easy to relax and explore.

The Royal Pavilion stands out with its bold, exotic design. It looks more like a palace from India than a building in coastal England. North Laine is another highlight, full of vintage stores, record shops, and colorful street art. It’s the perfect place to wander without a plan.

Brighton also has a fun, inclusive energy that draws creatives and weekend travelers alike. Whether you’re watching the sunset on the beach, digging into fish and chips, or dancing in a pop-up bar, the city always has something unexpected around the corner.

• Read next: Things to Do in Brighton

9. Oxford

• 📍 Location: Oxfordshire, South Central England
• 🏆 Best For: Academic vibes 📚, architecture lovers 🏛️, culture seekers 🖼️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the Bodleian Library, seeing the Radcliffe Camera, punting on the River Cherwell
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for warm weather and blooming college gardens 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Old Bank Hotel – Elegant hotel in the city center with views of historic landmarks

Oxford mixes deep academic tradition with a modern city feel. You’ll find gothic spires, cobbled lanes, and legendary libraries around every turn. The colleges are the main draw, each with their own stories, quadrangles, and centuries-old chapels that feel untouched by time.

A tour of the Bodleian Library is a must. It’s one of the oldest in Europe and full of charm for book lovers. The Radcliffe Camera and Christ Church College are also highlights for fans of architecture and film. You might recognize them from scenes in Harry Potter or The Golden Compass.

For a relaxing break, rent a punt and float down the River Cherwell past willows and meadows. Between the museums, pubs, and university culture, Oxford balances quiet beauty with endless things to explore. It’s a city where learning and leisure come together in the best way.

10. Stratford-upon-Avon

• 📍 Location: Warwickshire, West Midlands
• 🏆 Best For: Literature fans 📖, theatre lovers 🎭, history buffs 🏰
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Shakespeare’s Birthplace, catching a show at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, exploring Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to September for open gardens and outdoor performances 🌷
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel du Vin Stratford-upon-Avon – Stylish hotel in a former 18th-century building with cozy rooms

Stratford-upon-Avon is a place where literature and daily life blend together in a town full of character. Timber-framed buildings line the streets, and there’s a calm, walkable rhythm that makes it feel both historic and welcoming. It’s small enough to explore in a day, but packed with cultural depth.

Shakespeare’s presence is everywhere. You can explore his family home, see plays performed by the Royal Shakespeare Company, and stroll through gardens once tended by his relatives. Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and other historic houses offer an intimate look into life during his time.

Beyond its literary draw, the town has scenic riverside walks, cozy cafés, and traditional English pubs. It’s a great place for anyone who enjoys history without the crowds, and the kind of destination where slowing down feels like the right way to travel.

11. Lake Windermere

• 📍 Location: Cumbria, Lake District
• 🏆 Best For: Boating fans 🚤, romantic getaways 💕, nature escapes 🌿
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cruising the lake, visiting Bowness-on-Windermere, exploring The World of Beatrix Potter
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for warmer weather and lake activities 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lindeth Howe – Historic country house hotel once owned by Beatrix Potter with lake views

Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in England and one of the most scenic spots in the country. Surrounded by rolling hills and charming villages, it’s a peaceful base for exploring the Lake District at a slower pace. The lake itself is calm and perfect for boating or just sitting on the shore with a good book.

You can hop on a cruise that glides past tree-lined shores and old stone houses, or rent a kayak for a more active day on the water. In Bowness-on-Windermere, cafés and local shops create a warm welcome after time outdoors.

Families and fans of classic tales will love The World of Beatrix Potter, which brings her beloved characters to life. Whether you’re here for the scenery, the serenity, or just to breathe in fresh air, Lake Windermere delivers a calming experience that’s easy to return to.

12. Canterbury

• 📍 Location: Kent, Southeastern England
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏛️, cathedral seekers ⛪, literary fans 📚
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Canterbury Cathedral, punting along the River Stour, walking the medieval city walls
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for clear skies and open-air exploring ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Falstaff Hotel – Historic inn near the Westgate with timber beams and vintage charm

Canterbury is one of those cities where every street corner seems to hold a story. The medieval layout is still intact, with winding lanes, half-timbered buildings, and charming bridges that cross quiet streams. It’s easy to spend hours wandering without feeling rushed.

The city’s main landmark is Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dominates the skyline with gothic detail and centuries of religious significance. You’ll also find connections to Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, adding another layer of cultural depth for literature lovers.

Punting along the River Stour gives a unique view of the city’s historic buildings from the water, while nearby gardens and museums round out the experience. Canterbury is walkable, peaceful, and full of personality, making it a perfect end to any trip through England’s most beautiful places.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in England

Are you aiming to broaden your knowledge about the most scenic places in England? Here are some frequently asked questions I receive about the top attractions and activities in England.

What are the most beautiful places to visit in England?

England is full of stunning locations, each with its own unique charm. Some of the most beautiful include the historic city of Bath, the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds, the academic haven of Cambridge, the ancient city of York, the scenic landscapes of the Peak District, the vibrant coastal city of Brighton, the scholarly city of Oxford, the cultural town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the serene Lake Windermere, and the historic city of Canterbury.

What are the best places to visit in England?

England offers a myriad of wonderful places to visit, depending on your interests. Some of the best include the buzzing city of London, the historic and elegant city of Bath, the university cities of Cambridge and Oxford, the charming town of Stratford-upon-Avon, and the picturesque landscapes of the Lake District and Peak District.

Where are the most scenic places in England?

Some of the most scenic places in England include the dramatic cliffs of the White Cliffs of Dover, the tranquil landscapes of the Lake District, the rolling hills of the Peak District, the historic city of Bath, and the charming villages of the Cotswolds.

What are some must-see places in England?

There are plenty of must-see places in England. Some highlights include the iconic city of London, the historic city of Bath, the university cities of Cambridge and Oxford, the picturesque Cotswolds, and the stunning landscapes of the Lake District and Peak District.

What are the most beautiful cities in England?

Some of the most beautiful cities in England include the historic city of Bath, the academic cities of Cambridge and Oxford, the ancient city of York, the vibrant coastal city of Brighton, and the cultural town of Stratford-upon-Avon.

Which part of England is most beautiful?

The beauty of England is spread across its length and breadth, making it difficult to single out one region. However, many travelers are drawn to the natural beauty of areas like the Lake District and the Peak District, as well as the historic cities of Bath, York, and Canterbury.

Where is the prettiest place in England?

England is home to a diverse range of beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and charming towns and cities. What might be considered the prettiest place in England depends on individual preferences. Here are some English locations with exceptional beauty:

1. The Lake District: Known for its stunning lakes, mountains, and picturesque villages, the Lake District National Park is a favorite among nature lovers.
2. Cotswolds: Characterized by rolling hills, thatched medieval villages, churches, and stately homes, the Cotswolds offers quintessential English countryside charm.
3. Cornwall: With its rugged coastline, beautiful beaches, and fishing villages, Cornwall is a popular destination for those seeking coastal beauty.
4. Bath: Famous for its Roman-built baths, Georgian architecture, and the stunning Bath Abbey, Bath is a city steeped in history and elegance.
5. York: With its medieval streets and well-preserved city walls, York offers a blend of history and beauty.
6. Cambridge: Known for its prestigious university and beautiful college buildings, Cambridge offers picturesque views along the River Cam.
7. Dorset’s Jurassic Coast: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this coastline offers dramatic cliffs, unique geological formations, and beautiful beaches.

What part of England should I visit?

The part of England you should visit really depends on your interests. History buffs might prefer cities with a rich past like Oxford, York, or Canterbury. If you love the countryside, the Cotswolds, Lake District, or the Peak District would be perfect. For a coastal retreat, consider places like Brighton or the White Cliffs of Dover.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in England

With its rich history, natural beauty, vibrant cities, and quaint villages, England is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. From the iconic landmarks of London to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, this guide has unveiled just a fraction of the beautiful places in England that deserve your attention.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, a city explorer, or a passionate foodie, there’s something for everyone in this diverse country. As you embark on your English adventure, you will find beauty, charm, and history at every turn. England’s variety of landscapes and experiences are as vast as they are enchanting, and each visit is sure to leave you wanting more.

Whether you choose to wander among ancient ruins, explore buzzing cities, relax in the picturesque countryside, or delve into the literary past, every experience in England is a chance to make unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, and let England surprise, inspire, and captivate you.