Britain is a rich country in many ways. Rich in culture, rich in proud patriotism, rich in impressive landscapes. But there are also charming little villages dotted around the country, full of life and bursting with culture. In short: Great Britain is incredible and definitely worth a trip. To make sure you don’t miss anything on your trip to this diverse country, we have put together a few tips in this article with a list of the 7 most extraordinary destinations in England. Adding to the excitement, the Stay Casino offers vibrant gaming options and enticing promotions like Stay casino 20 free spins, enhancing your summer experience. And here are my top ten reasons why Brighton is simply unbeatable in the warm summer months.
1. Brighton – the most fashionable seaside resort in England
Close to the sea and lively residents
One of the most dynamic cities in England is definitely Brighton. It is also one of the most popular seaside resorts due to its vibrant joie de vivre, which can be found everywhere in the city by the sea, and its progressive hippie lifestyle. The southern part of the city is known worldwide for the numerous rainbow flags that adorn the small streets and emphasise the openness of the British towards the LGBTQ+ community.
Brighton is located in the heart of the county of Sussex and is one of England’s centres of history and art. With the area being well connected by train and London only 1.5 hours away, tourists and locals alike regularly take the opportunity to take a break from the stressful metropolis in Brighton. Neighbourhoods such as North Lane are booming and allow you to relax in exotic cafés and small boutiques.
Brighton Pier – good humour and relaxation
When people talk about Brighton, Brighton Pier is usually the first thing that comes to mind. Its official name is Brighton Palace Pier, which already hints at its long history.
However, when you stand directly in front of the pier that leads into the English Channel, the first thing that comes to mind is the fun you’re about to have… Brighton Pier is home to the small Luna Park, which not only spreads a good mood with its music, but also promises a fun afternoon by the sea. So remember to pack everything you need in your suitcase!
In the evening, the colourful lights of the amusement park make the pier sparkle in all colours. This view combined with original fish and chips, which you can enjoy on the pebble beach next to Brighton Pier, guarantees a holiday atmosphere. With warm temperatures and sunny weather, which is rare in England, the coast is perfect for a quick dip before strolling back to the beautiful old town.
Lots of culture – between blue seascapes and world-famous artists
What awaits you in the old town will literally immerse you in another world: Brighton’s famous SEA-LIFE aquarium. More than 3000 species of fish and other sea creatures await you there. The oldest aquarium in the world is the perfect place for children and anyone who needs a break from everyday life.
But art enthusiasts won’t want to leave Brighton either… No matter which way you look, the British, world-famous artist Banksy seems to be looking back through his artworks everywhere. You can admire “Kissing Policemen” and “The Girl with the Red Balloon” in Brighton, for example. The fact that art such as Banksy’s street art deals primarily with social issues and the relationship with the police makes his artworks all the more poignant in this otherwise rather small, charming city.
Excursion outside the city – Isle of Wight
If you like the sea, don’t hesitate to take a trip to the Isle of Wight, one of England’s larger islands. Here you will find everything you could wish for on a successful holiday: interesting history, beautiful landscapes and above all – thanks to its proximity to the water – delicious fish chips.
2. Bath – the warmest thermal springs in England
Historic baths and an interesting world heritage site
Taking a hot bath in Bath is simply a must! The city in the south of England in the county of Somerset was founded by the Romans in 50 AD to utilise the hot healing springs and benefit from their positive effects.
During the Georgian era, the city of Bath became Britain’s flagship city thanks to its thermal springs. As a result, it has been further developed as one of the increasingly famous places to visit and today boasts much remarkable Georgian-style architecture that can be recognised throughout the city. Jane Austen also lived here for several years and in 1987 UNESCO declared the city a World Heritage Site.
Visit the Royal Crescent in Bath to admire the best example of this architectural style. As the city’s most prestigious address, it fascinates historians and tourists alike with its 30 terraced houses arranged in a semicircle.
Wellness and relaxation
Another important address for tourists in the small English town is the Bath Thermal Spa complex. The baths are divided into 4 areas: the sacred spring, the Roman temple, the thermal baths and the museum dedicated to the discoveries of the excavations on site. If you are looking for more peace and quiet, you can also leave Bath for a short time, take a trip to the sea and explore one of England’s many beaches.
3. Oxford – combining the Middle Ages and today’s elite universities
A lively student city
Oxford is a city in England that is known worldwide for its ancient streets full of historic buildings and monuments as well as its vibrant university culture.
Students recognise Oxford as one of the most famous university cities in England. Oxford University is one of the oldest universities in the world. It is part of the so-called Golden Triangle. This is a group of prestigious, traditional universities in England. These also include the University of Cambridge and University College London, the London School of Economics, Imperial College London and King’s College London.
Winding alleyways and historic sites
The city was founded in the 12th century and has a mediaeval city centre that is still in excellent condition today. You have the choice, the most important sights in Oxford are as follows:
- The Carfax Tower, a 23 metre high bell tower from the 12th century, which offers a breathtaking view over the whole city
- The Bodleian Library, the second largest library in England, built in 1602 – one of the places where you should definitely book your guided tour in advance
- The Radcliffe Camera, a neoclassical library of the University of Oxford in a circular building
- The Sheldonian Theatre, a 17th century theatre and one of the most famous buildings in Oxford, which is also one of the University’s iconic buildings
- Oxford Castle and Prison, a guided tour of this 1000 year old building is a must for history buffs
- St Mary’s Church, a 14th century Anglican church in the heart of the University
4. York – the pearl in the north of England
Roman founding fathers and mediaeval neighbourhoods
Founded by the Romans, York was once the capital of the north of the country and is situated on the beautiful River Ouse. York’s famous city walls are still a symbol of the city’s historical heritage and served to protect it from invaders.
There is also York Minster, a large and impressive Gothic cathedral, famous for its windows and imposing tower. It was built in the 7th century and was one of the most important places of Christianity in the north of England for centuries.
And to top off your stay in York, you should make a detour to Clifford’s Tower, an ancient castle on a hill. From here you can look out over the entire mediaeval city centre of York and the surrounding countryside.
Excursions into lovely landscapes
York is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the north and is also an inviting destination for tours of the east coast.
The River Ouse also offers several opportunities to take a closer look at nature in Yorkshire. It is formed from the River Ure and several other rivers: The perfect opportunity to explore the Yorkshire Dales National Park and maybe even – if you want to go further – the Lake District on a hike.
5. Salisbury – a charming little town with the opportunity for a short trip to Stonehenge
Archaeological sites close to the city
Salisbury is a charming little town known for its local archaeology. One of the main attractions is the Salisbury Museum, where the best collections on nearby Stonehenge are on display.
Stonehenge is one of the places that can be reached within 15 minutes either by the well-connected public bus system or by car. This historic site is not only famous in England, but worldwide and is definitely worth a short trip in the form of a day or afternoon excursion.
Unique cultural attractions in the centre of the city
Back in Salisbury, you could take a look inside the cathedral, which is also one of the oldest heritage sites in the UK and boasts the tallest spire in the country. You can learn a lot about the history of England during a visit. So this destination should not be missing from your list of top attractions.
6. St Ives – on a journey of discovery through Cornwall
Relaxation in the south-west of England
Cornwall is a county in the south-west of Great Britain and is known for its small, idyllic towns on unique coastlines. Its warm and welcoming people, picturesque villages and miles of tranquil beaches also characterise Cornwall. One of the most picture-perfect places in the region is the seaside town of St Ives, which really has something special to offer tourists…
Porthmeor Beach is the perfect place to spend an afternoon of pure relaxation. Just a few minutes from the town centre, families, tourists and sports enthusiasts alike love the white sandy beach. From a simple afternoon of swimming to surfing or kayaking sessions, there is so much to do here! St Ives is certainly one of the most interesting places in Cornwall and the whole of England.
Culture and delicacies
St Ives also has a lot to offer art lovers. It is home to the Tate St Ives Museum, a small museum that has recently been expanded and specialises in contemporary works by British artists.
Finally, you can take a stroll along the old harbour and let all the impressions sink in at one of the many bars and restaurants in the area. The fresh seafood platter that you can savour in one of the many seafood restaurants , such as the Sea Food Cafe or the Porthminster Kitchen, will have you dreaming for weeks to come.
Short trip to the Isles of Scilly
You might also enjoy a trip to the Isles of Scilly. Located off the south-west coast of England, these islands are one of those places where nature lovers feel at home.
7. Chester – the most fortified city in England
Romans and strong walls
If you are travelling to Liverpool on holiday, you should definitely visit the charming city of Chester with its interesting history! The fact that it was founded by Romans in the first century AD can still be recognised today by the striking, typically Roman city walls.
Despite the fires and wars of the past centuries, the walls have remained intact. Today, they still encircle almost the entire city over a distance of 3 kilometres.
There is no better place to visualise the cultural evolution of Britain through the ages. For anyone fascinated by the history of England: Be enchanted by the sight of Victorian architecture, the Roman amphitheatre and the mediaeval cathedral.
Not too far away: Liverpool and the Lake District
If you also want to explore a city in England that is a little larger and close by, don’t hesitate to travel to Liverpool. Liverpool not only has a lot to offer on the subject of football , but also invites you to discover the history of music (for example that of the Beatles), as well as many other sights.
The Lake District is also not far away and promises plenty of relaxation on holiday.
