You do not have to go at a greater distance of England’s borders to find some amazing places. From ancient buildings, stunning lakes, rugged mountains, and charming towns and villages to hidden beaches, England has plenty of destinations which look like they could be a plane ride away but are in your own backyard.
Provence or Gloucestershire? Cornwall or the Med? Here are England’s 10 most beautiful backdrops you can add to your bucket list.
1. The Scilly Isles
The Scilly Isles, also known as the Isles of Scilly, are an archipelago located off the southwestern tip of England, in the Atlantic Ocean. There are five inhabited islands and many smaller uninhabited islands. The largest island is St Mary's, which is home to the main population centre and the only airport in the Scilly Isles.
The Scilly Isles have a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Bronze Age. The islands have been occupied by various groups, including the Romans, Vikings, and Normans. In the 16th century, the Scilly Isles were an important base for pirates and privateers and were later used as a staging point for military operations during World War II.
Today, the Scilly Isles are a popular tourist destination, known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique wildlife. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and sailing, and can explore the islands' historic sites and charming villages. The Scilly Isles are also home to several art galleries and craft shops, showcasing the work of local artists and artisans.
Access to the Scilly Isles is primarily by ferry or small plane from the mainland, with regular services operating from Penzance and Newquay. The islands have their own distinct culture and community and are a fascinating and beautiful destination for anyone looking to explore a unique and remote corner of England.
2. The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is a beautiful area in south-central England, known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and picturesque countryside. It covers an area of about 800 square miles (2,100 square kilometres) and is located primarily in the counties of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, but also extends into parts of Wiltshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, and Somerset.
The Cotswolds is renowned for its distinctive architecture, which features honey-coloured limestone buildings and thatched roofs. It is also home to numerous historic sites, such as ancient stone circles, Roman villas, and medieval castles. The area is popular with tourists and locals alike, and offers a range of activities, including hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and golf. There are also many excellent restaurants, pubs, and tea rooms, serving up delicious local cuisine and traditional afternoon tea.
Overall, the Cotswolds is a wonderful place to visit for anyone who appreciates natural beauty, history, and traditional English charm.
3: The Lake District
The Lake District is a mountainous region located in the north-west of England, in the county of Cumbria. It is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers stunning scenery and a range of outdoor activities.
The region is dominated by a series of lakes, which were formed during the last ice age. The largest and most famous of these is Lake Windermere, which is over 11 miles long and is a popular spot for water sports such as sailing, kayaking, and swimming. Other notable lakes in the region include Ullswater, Derwentwater, and Coniston Water.
The Lake District is also home to England's highest mountain, Scafell Pike, which stands at 978 meters (3,209 feet) tall. The mountain is a popular destination for hikers, who can take on the challenging climb to the summit and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Lake District has a rich cultural heritage and has been home to many famous writers and artists over the years. The poet William Wordsworth was born in the region, and his works are closely associated with the landscape and scenery of the Lake District. Other notable literary figures who have been associated with the region include Beatrix Potter and Arthur Ransome.
Overall, the Lake District is a beautiful and unique part of England, offering stunning natural beauty, a range of outdoor activities, and a rich cultural heritage.
4. The Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast is a stunning 95-mile stretch of coastline in southern England, stretching from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique geology and fossils, which offer a glimpse into 185 million years of Earth's history.
The coastline is characterized by towering cliffs, secluded coves, and stunning beaches. The geology of the area is particularly interesting, as it is made up of layers of sedimentary rock that have been exposed by coastal erosion. This has resulted in a landscape of striking natural features, such as the distinctive arch of Durdle Door and the natural limestone arch of Old Harry Rocks.
The Jurassic Coast is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rare birds, butterflies, and plants. Visitors can explore the area through a variety of activities, such as hiking, rock climbing, and fossil hunting. There are also several museums and visitor centres along the coast, providing information on the area's history and geology.
Overall, the Jurassic Coast is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the natural history of our planet.
5. The Peak District
The Peak District is a beautiful upland area located in central and northern England, covering parts of the counties of Derbyshire, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, and South Yorkshire. It is the oldest national park in the UK, designated in 1951, and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, climbers, and cyclists.
The landscape of the Peak District is diverse and includes high moorland, deep valleys, rivers, waterfalls, and limestone caves. It is also home to a rich variety of wildlife, including birds of prey such as peregrine falcons and buzzards, as well as deer, foxes, and badgers.
Some of the notable attractions in the Peak District include the famous Chatsworth House, an impressive stately home and gardens, and the historic spa town of Buxton, known for its Georgian architecture and natural springs. Other popular activities in the Peak District include rock climbing, caving, cycling, and hiking along the many scenic trails, such as the Pennine Way and the Limestone Way.
Overall, the Peak District is a stunning area of natural beauty, offering visitors a chance to explore the great outdoors and experience the rich history and culture of the region.
6. The Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales is a beautiful area located in Northern England, renowned for its stunning scenery and idyllic countryside. The region covers a large area of the counties of North Yorkshire and Cumbria and is characterized by rolling hills, winding rivers, and picturesque stone villages.
The Yorkshire Dales is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with many opportunities for hiking, cycling, and rock climbing. Some of the most famous attractions in the region include Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, and the Three Peaks (Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough), which are popular with walkers.
The area is also known for its traditional farming practices, with sheep farming being a key industry in the region. Visitors can experience this rural way of life by visiting one of the many working farms in the area or attending a local agricultural show.
The Yorkshire Dales also has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historic sites and museums scattered throughout the region. Some notable attractions include Bolton Castle, Fountains Abbey, and the Wensleydale Creamery.
Overall, the Yorkshire Dales is a beautiful and diverse region that offers something for everyone, whether you are interested in outdoor activities, history, or simply enjoying the stunning scenery.
7. The Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is a small island located off the south coast of England. It is situated in the English Channel and is separated from the mainland by the Solent, a narrow stretch of water. The island has a population of around 140,000 people and is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful scenery, beaches, and historical sites.
The Isle of Wight has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to prehistoric times. It has been inhabited by various groups throughout history, including the Romans, Saxons, and Normans. During the 19th century, the island became a popular vacation spot for wealthy Victorians, who built grand houses and established resorts.
Today, the Isle of Wight is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, such as walking, cycling, and water sports. It is also home to several festivals, including the Isle of Wight Festival, which has featured performances by legendary musicians such as Jimi Hendrix and The Who.
8. The New Forest
The New Forest is a beautiful area in the southern part of England, located mainly in the county of Hampshire. It is a large natural park covering over 566 square kilometres, with a diverse landscape of ancient woodland, heathland, and wetlands.
The New Forest was originally created as a royal hunting ground by William the Conqueror over 900 years ago, and it has been protected ever since. Today, it is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, ponies, and rare birds. The ponies are one of the most iconic features of the New Forest, and they roam freely throughout the area.
Visitors to the New Forest can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and horse riding. There are also many picturesque villages and towns to explore, such as Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst, and Lymington, which offer a range of shops, restaurants, and pubs.
Overall, the New Forest is a wonderful place to visit for anyone who enjoys nature and the outdoors, with plenty of opportunities for relaxation, exploration, and adventure.
9. The Royal Pavilion
The Royal Pavilion is a former royal residence located in Brighton, a coastal town in the county of Sussex in southern England. It was built in the 18th and early 19th centuries as a seaside retreat for George, Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV.
The Royal Pavilion is a striking example of the Indo-Saracenic architectural style, which is a blend of Indian and Islamic architectural traditions with Western architectural elements. The building's exterior features onion domes, minarets, and a central dome that is reminiscent of the Taj Mahal in India. The interior of the Pavilion is equally elaborate, with richly decorated rooms and a magnificent Banqueting Room.
Today, the Royal Pavilion is open to the public as a museum and tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the building's opulent rooms and learn about its history, as well as view a collection of art and furniture from the Regency period. The Pavilion is also surrounded by beautiful gardens, which are open to the public and feature a variety of exotic plants and trees.
10. The City of Bath
The City of Bath is a historic city in southwest England, known for its Georgian architecture, natural hot springs, and Roman Baths. It is the largest city in the county of Somerset and has a population of approximately 90,000 people.
Bath was founded by the Romans as a spa town, and the Roman Baths, which are still in operation today, are one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. The baths were built around natural hot springs and were used by the Romans for relaxation and healing.
During the Georgian era, Bath became a fashionable place to visit and live, and many of the city's buildings were constructed in this style. The Royal Crescent, a row of 30 terraced houses, is one of Bath's most famous Georgian landmarks.
Bath is also home to several museums and galleries, including the Victoria Art Gallery, the Museum of Bath at Work, and the Fashion Museum. The city's architecture and history have also made it a popular location for film and television productions, including the adaptations of Jane Austen's novels.
In addition to its cultural offerings, Bath is also known for its parks and green spaces, including Royal Victoria Park and Sydney Gardens. The city is situated in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities.
Overall, the City of Bath is a unique and fascinating place, with a rich history and vibrant cultural scene.
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