England Travel Guide
Discover England
England is that rare type of destination of which one can never tire. From lively London, which while steeped in history still offers myriad cosmopolitan delights, to the countryside’s moors and lakes, to a mysterious stone circle, to more than 1,500 ancient castles, there are countless stories to be heard.
For those who yearn to learn the tales of the country’s yesteryear, to those who crave Michelin-starred dining and epic theater performances, there are palaces, ancient ruins, Shakespearean haunts, pubs, edgy boutiques, and quiet lanes lined with thatched cottages all awaiting discovery. With its countless antiquities and cultural compass pointing ever forward, England is a precious blend of old and new. Planning a trip to England? Read our England travel guide to find out when to visit, what to do, and much more to make your vacation unforgettable.
What is the best time to visit England?
The best time to visit England is between late March and early June, or between September and November. These off-peak times avoid the highest visitor numbers. The countryside is particularly beautiful at these times of year, either as the flowers and trees start to bloom or, in the fall, when the leaves start to change color.
What is the best way to get to England?
Flying is the best way to get to England. Flights from the United States to England range from 6-10 hours nonstop, depending on your departing airport. London Heathrow is the largest airport; the city also offers Gatwick, Stansted, and City airports. International flights also arrive into Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle, Birmingham, and Bristol. All airports in England are well connected to local public transportation, including the Heathrow Express direct train to London Paddington station.
How to get around England?
London is easily navigated by public transportation, including the London Underground, the London Overground, taxis, shared-ride services, buses, and bicycle.
To best experience local life, consider using public transportation to get around England’s other cities and towns. Most cities allow you to purchase bus tickets directly from the driver when you board the bus. Larger areas, such as Greater Manchester, offer regional travel cards that are valid for all forms of public transportation in that area. Most cities and towns also offer taxis, mini cabs, and shared-ride services.
Train travel is an economical and relaxing way to get around England. More than 2,000 stations serve not only England but Scotland and Wales as well. A BritRail pass is exclusive for tourists and offers unlimited rail rides and various discounts.
If you choose to drive a rental car in England, you will need a current valid driving license and be able to show proof of the rental agreement at any time.
Do I need a visa to visit England?
American citizens do not need a visa to enter England.
What are the top 5 places to visit in England?
1. Lake District
Days of exploration await active travelers at England’s largest national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Lake District is a veritable wonderland of mountains and hills, lakes, and picturesque villages open to hiking, canyoning, wild swimming, sailing, and some of Britain’s best hiking trails. From William Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage to the craggy Grisedale Valley to lush Ennerdale Forest, this staggeringly beautiful natural area is full of geological wonders and cultural treasures.
2. London
London is England’s epicenter of art, museums, and culture. From the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey to the British Museum, Tate Modern, and Natural History Museum, there are hours upon hours of discovery to be had. Beyond the antiquities, there are chic neighborhoods, hip food markets, West End theater, stately parks, and more to enjoy.
3. Stonehenge
History-minded travelers can’t miss the mysterious Stonehenge ring of boulders. Drawing curious folks for more than 5,000 years, the ever-compelling site is juxtaposed with a modern visitor center that allows for further discovery, while still protecting the ethereal nature of the place. Early-morning and evening tours that provide access to the inner ring of the approximately 25-ton stones can be arranged.
4. The Cotswolds
Heaths, hedgerows, and hamlets define the dreamy Cotswolds countryside. From the birthplace of Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon to Cleeve Hill, the highest point in the Cotswolds, this is a land of medieval history, meandering rivers, thatched cottages, and convivial pubs. Cotswold Way is ideal for walking, cycling, and horseback riding through 102 miles of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
5. York
The walled medieval town city of York is famous for its Gothic cathedral – the York Minster – interesting museums that cover everything from Viking to Victorian to railway history, and its enticing old town. It’s easy and fun to get lost, in the best possible way, along the narrow alleyways (called snickelways) because there’s always an atmospheric cafe or traditional pub to pop into.
What are the best adventure tours in England?
1. England Coast to Coast Hiking Tour
Traverse England by foot on this classic hiking adventure, including the most spectacular stages of Alfred Wainwright’s epic “Coast to Coast” trail. Journeying from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, you’ll cross three national parks: the Lake District, featuring England’s highest mountains; the rolling green hills and river valleys of the Yorkshire Dales; and the dramatic landscapes of the North Yorkshire Moors. Along the way, you’ll pass medieval castles, historic houses, and ancient standing stones — and enjoy beautiful, ever-changing scenery. End days on the trail at top-notch hotels in picturesque villages, where a warm English welcome awaits.
2. England Cotswolds Village to Village Walking Tour
On this delightful Cotswolds walking tour, discover dreamy English countryside – rolling hills, hedgerow-lined fields, and postcard-pretty hamlets. Follow paths from village to village, taking detours to visit iconic sites. Explore the birthplace of Shakespeare with a trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, take in England’s grand history at Sudeley Castle, and explore the beautiful town of Cirencester with its strong Roman influence. See story-book thatched cottages and Neolithic tombs, wander beside gently meandering rivers, and enjoy a scenic steam train ride. Welcome to the Cotswolds!
Where are the best places to stay in England?
From sophisticated, 5-star city hotels steps from Buckingham Palace to country house estates in the rolling green hills, England offers an array of accommodation options. City hotels in London, in particular, may offer upscale amenities, including a pool, spa, complimentary Wi-Fi, room service, and more.
More traditional accommodations are typically smaller and more intimate and combine modern niceties with a sense of place.
1. The Lamb Inn – Burford
The Lamb Inn is a quintessential English inn with modern-day comforts, located on a quiet street in the historic market town of Burford. The 17 en-suite bedrooms have individual decor, featuring a collection of stylish fabrics and antique furnishings, and welcome extras like Nespresso machines. Guests love the quirky style and warmth of this charming traditional hotel.
2. The Broadway – Broadway
Tucked away in the Worcestershire village of Broadway, the Broadway Hotel is housed inside timbered buildings dating from the 15th century. Its rooms are spacious and comfortable, and come with an en-suite bathroom, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and Wi-Fi. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, and it is a perfect place to unwind after rambling across the surrounding hills.
3. The Swan Hotel – Bibury
Located on the enchanting banks of the Coln River in the idyllic village of Bibury, this former coaching inn is the ultimate haven for a peaceful escape. The 22 spacious, country-style rooms feature antique furnishings and contemporary fabrics and wallpapers. It’s a delightful place to end a walk in the Cotswolds.
4. Kings Head Hotel – Ravenstonedale
The Kings Head, Ravenstonedale, Cumbria is located in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Ravenstonedale is an area of outstanding natural beauty at the foot of the Howgill Fells. Refined, individually decorated rooms come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, 24-hour room service, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. There’s no air-conditioning. Parking is complimentary. A traditional restaurant offers terrace dining, and there’s also a cozy bar.
5. The Inn on the Lake – Glenridding
The Inn on the Lake is an award-winning 4-star hotel, spectacularly situated on the shore of Ullswater. Its 48 en-suite rooms are beautifully appointed and come with modern amenities. Stroll through the hotel’s manicured grounds, enjoying sweeping views of the lake, then have a drink at the Rambler’s Bar or dinner at the onsite restaurant.
6. The Black Swan – Ravenstonedale
Experience the tranquility of the Eden Valley at the award-winning Black Swan, a traditional village hotel in the heart of Ravenstonedale. Its well-appointed rooms come with classic touches, comfortable beds, and en-suite baths. Enjoy the hotel’s riverside pub garden and restaurant, where dishes are freshly made from local produce.
7. The Mallyan Spout Hotel – Goathland
The Mallyan Spout Hotel is a charming 3-star country hotel, located in the village of Goathland near Whitby. Each of its rooms has a unique feel, but all come with cozy beds, comfortable seating areas, and modern amenities. Grab a drink at the splendid Spout Bar or enjoy a hearty meal at the hotel’s Valley View Restaurant.
8. The Victoria Hotel – Robin Hood, England
The landmark Victoria Hotel is exquisitely perched at the top of Robin Hood’s Bay on the North Yorkshire Heritage Coast. With panoramic sea views, comfortable rooms, and an excellent restaurant serving meals made fresh local fare, this is the perfect end point to your adventure.
9. Moresby – Whitehaven
Experience 5-star grandeur at magnificent Moresby Hall, a 16th-century historical building and award-winning country guesthouse. Its sumptuous rooms come with modern amenities and a regal flair. Enjoy traditional English and Cumbrian fare at the hotel’s onsite restaurant and delight in a truly warm welcome from friendly staff.
10. The Ullswater Inn – Glenridding
In a traditional stone building overlooking Ullswater Lake, this relaxed hotel is a 3.6-mile walk from Helvellyn (a mountain peak) and 13.7 miles from central Penrith. Elegant rooms offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Dining options include an upmarket restaurant, a casual bistro, and a cozy bar serving classic pub food, plus a cafe offering afternoon tea. Other features include an indoor pool, a sauna, and a library with a snooker table.
Things to know about England
In the modestly sized country of England, it’s easy enough to experience both the pastoral Cotswolds, the buzzy city of York, and the lively yet historic capital city of London all in one visit. This is a place where one can move from medieval villages to avant-garde art galleries, from mysterious Stonehenge to one of York’s 365 pubs, to soak up the charm, history, and hospitality of the country.
As enticing as its cities and storybook villages, England also shines in its quiet rural areas, including the North Yorkshire Moors, the Peaks District, and several national parks. From castles and cathedrals, to Shakespeare and seaside resorts, England packs a punch.
What is the language in England?
English is the main language spoken in England.
What to eat in England?
Some British cuisine may at first seem puzzling to even the most seasoned foodie. It’s not that the recipes are offputting; instead it’s that the names given to certain culinary items are unexpected. For example, in England, you’re not actually eating “toads” if you see it on the menu – that’s actually a sausage. And pudding? It’s any sweet course served after a savory main and not necessarily one’s standard, soft pudding.
Among the most iconic dishes to try are the full English breakfast, Yorkshire pudding, toad in the hole, black pudding, spotted dick, jellied eels, pie and mash, shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, Scotch egg, steak and kidney pudding (which actually isn’t sweet at all!), trifle, and the delectable Eton mess.
What is the currency in England?
The local currency in England is the British pound sterling (GBP). It is symbolized by the pound sign (£) and referred to as sterling. One might also hear it called by its nickname, “quid.” One pound sterling equals 100 pence.
Money can be exchanged at the airport upon arrival (be sure to keep your receipts in case you need to exchange back on departure) or is widely available to withdraw from ATMs. Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted throughout the country.
What is the electricity in England?
Electricity in England, and throughout the UK, is 50 hz/220-240 volts. Wall outlets take three-pin plugs. “Shaver” sockets take two round, oversized prongs. Converters may be required for small, high-wattage electrical appliances from the US, Canada, and other non-European countries. Check the voltage on your personal electronics chargers to determine if you need a voltage converter. A good resource to see images of plug types is www.power-plugs-sockets.com.
What is the time zone in England?
England, like the UK, is on the GMT/UTC time zone. Daylight Savings Time (DST) is observed.
What to wear in England?
Dressing in layers is the key to staying comfortable in England. The weather can change drastically any time of year, even within one day. Pack an umbrella, a warm sweater or light fleece, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes.
For winter travel, bring an insulated coat, scarf, gloves, hat, woolen socks, and warm shoes or insulated boots.