The most beautiful places in England, from Cornwall to Yorkshire

Famous for historical landmarks like Stonehenge, stunning Victorian architecture like the Tower Bridge, and diverse natural landscapes ranging from alluring coastlines to serene hillsides, England has no shortage of sights to see. Some of these scenic places are well-kept secrets among locals, making them true hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Here are some of the most beautiful places in England that you’ll want to add to your next itinerary.

Out of all the beautiful places in England, the Lake District is arguably the most famous. As you might guess from the name, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with tranquil lakes nestled amidst majestic mountains. The most famous spot here is Windermere Lake, the largest lake in all of England. Imagine rocky inlets, grassy banks, and a picturesque skyline dotted with volcanic peaks. This is the scenery that awaits you. The best way to fully explore the Lake District is by signing up for driving tours which take you to the must-visit spots in the area.

St. Michael’s Mount is one of the most iconic spots in Cornwall and a true sight to behold. It’s a small tidal island located off the coast of Marazion Beach and features a majestic abbey, built way back in the 12th century. Make sure to snap a picture of the abbey against the backdrop of the turquoise bay. Cornwall has plenty of other scenic locations to visit. We recommend joining this free-and-easy tour so you don’t miss out on any of the best sights in this historic county.

The Cotswolds is a beautiful region that offers you a glimpse of the English countryside. As you wander around the area, you’ll discover rustic meadows, charming cottages, and more. The village of Bibury, one of the most beautiful villages in England, is a popular place to add to your England itinerary. Here, you can visit the iconic Arlington Row, a serene riverside path lined with weavers’ cottages. Since The Cotswolds is only two hours away from London, you can sign up for a day tour to get there and start falling in love with the English countryside.

Named after the ancient Roman baths that the city is famous for, Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts mesmerizing Georgian architecture, rich history, and natural thermal springs. Take some time to explore the city on foot. You’ll come across plenty of hole-in-the-wall eateries as well as unique attractions, such as the Royal Crescent and Jane Austen Centre. We recommend combining your trip to Bath with a visit to Stonehenge to maximize your time in the area.

Jurassic Coast is a 96-mile coastline bordering the English Channel in southern England. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains rocks and fossils from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods. Apart from the historical significance, Jurassic Coast is also home to alluring coastal views and natural landmarks like Durdle Door and Old Harry Rocks. Given how far the coastline stretches, it’s best to sign up for a guided day-long excursion so you can make sure you get to see the best sights along the Jurassic Coast.

In the southeastern county of East Sussex, by the rustic coast of the English Channel, you’ll find the Seven Sisters cliffs. A series of sea-eroded chalk cliffs separated by dips or swales, the Seven Sisters are one of the most beautiful coastal attractions in England. Most people admire the cliffs from Beachy Head outside Eastbourne. However, this guided boat tour offers a more unique experience, allowing you to fall in love with the breathtaking scenery whilst discovering caves that detail the cliffs’ geological history.

At first glance, the Royal Pavilion might seem a little out of place in the bustling coastal town of Brighton. After all, this majestic palace boasts an exterior that’s heavily influenced by Indian architectural style. From afar, it looks more like the Taj Mahal than a conventional Victorian palace. It also houses a beautiful garden that locals frequent to pass the time. Thanks to its convenient location near the city center, we recommend signing up for a walking tour to best experience the Royal Pavilion. Along the way, you’ll also be able to check out other sights like the Palace Pier.

The town of Whitby is one of the most beautiful towns in England, especially for history buffs. Once home to the famous explorer Captain Cook, Whitby is known for its charming towns, alluring coastline, and the Whitby Abbey. The hauntingly beautiful Gothic ruins tower above the port town, offering mesmerizing views of the sea that are even more memorable during sunset. Most people visit Whitby as a day trip from York. For the best experience, consider guided tours that allow you to see the best of both Whitby and North York Moors.

Located in the government district of Kent, Canterbury is a quaint cathedral city that boasts plenty of history dating back to the Middle Ages. Here, you’ll find timber-framed houses that were originally built by the Romans, cobbled streets, and the beautiful Gothic Canterbury Cathedral. There are also serene walking trails and gardens scattered throughout the area, making it one of the lesser-known beautiful places in England to add to your itinerary. Because it’s close to Dover, it’s best to combine your tour of Canterbury with a trip to Dover to see its famous White Cliffs.

Lying off the coast of Northumberland, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne is a tidal island that’s only accessible during low tide. Here, you’ll find enigmatic castle ruins, a diverse landscape of salt marshes and dunes, and an ancient priory. Perched atop a rocky plateau, Lindisfarne Castle is the most iconic landmark on the island, famous for its rich history and awe-inspiring ocean views. If you’re lucky, you might even spot gray seals frolicking in the waters. While the island is located in England, it’s actually easier to get there on a day trip from Edinburgh.

While London might not immediately strike you as one of the most beautiful places in England, the bustling city certainly has its own charms. From majestic Victorian architecture and iconic landmarks to verdant gardens and pretty neighborhoods, there’s plenty to discover in England’s famous capital. Some of the best places to add to your London itinerary include King’s Cross, Notting Hill, Camden Town, and St. Dunstan in the East, one of London’s hidden gems. With so much to see and do, we recommend taking your time and picking the right guided tours to fully appreciate the beauty of this iconic city.

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