No one mocks England better than the English — but behind the dry humor and national self-deprecation lies a country packed with surprises. The best places to visit in England range from crumbling castles and storybook villages to edgy cities where street art and skyscrapers collide. This is a land of sharp contrasts: ancient woodlands rub shoulders with industrial skylines, and centuries-old pubs sit steps away from bold contemporary galleries.
History is everywhere — gritty, glorious, and never dull. You can trace it through the Tower of London, Roman ruins in Bath, or Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford. But England isn’t stuck in the past. You’ll find multicultural neighborhoods buzzing with energy, cutting-edge festivals, and boundary-pushing art scenes from Manchester to Bristol.
It’s this mix — old and new, quaint and gritty — that gives England its edge. And whether you're into hiking the moors, gallery-hopping in London, or just chasing the perfect Sunday roast, there’s always something worth the trip.
Questions about the best places to see in England
What is the best place to visit in England?−
London is usually the first stop – and with good reason. It's packed with history, food, galleries, and grit. From the Tower of London to Brixton’s street food stalls, there’s always something to explore. But the best place to visit depends on what you're into.
York mixes medieval charm with a lively pub scene, while Bath brings Roman ruins and Georgian architecture. Cornwall is a coastal escape, and the Lake District is the country’s best-known hiking region. England’s variety is what makes it special – compact, but never boring.