London dominates English tourism, but the rest of the country has so much to offer. From coastal villages to university cities to rolling countryside, here are the best places to explore beyond the capital.
England rewards the traveler who gets off the Heathrow-to-London conveyor belt — the country's best experiences are consistently outside the capital.
Updated in March of 2026
When I meet travellers while backpacking, I often hear they're heading to London. But England is so much more than the capital. This country may be small and compact, yet many visitors only explore London and miss out on the incredible destinations waiting beyond.
Friends often ask if I can meet them while they're in London. My response is usually 'I live in Manchester' - which is just a couple of hours away by train. England has some of the most spectacular countryside you'll find anywhere, which is why it's called the green and pleasant land. Here are the places beyond London that truly showcase what makes England special.
Devon and Cornwall
For quintessential English villages, cream teas, and country pubs, Devon and Cornwall deliver everything you'd imagine. The south coast of Devon, known as the English Riviera, features sailing towns like Salcombe and Dartmouth that offer charming harbours and excellent restaurants. Direct train from London Paddington takes about 2.5 hours to reach Exeter, making it easily accessible.
England's south coast boasts some of the world's best beaches. The north coast of Cornwall has become a major destination for surfing, with Polzeath and Newquay offering excellent waves year-round. Recent developments in 2025-2026 include new sustainable tourism initiatives and restored Victorian coastal paths. The region has invested heavily in green transport options, making it easier to explore without a car.
Port Isaac and Padstow have become food destinations with Michelin-starred restaurants and farm-to-table concepts. Rock remains the haunt of wealthy holidaymakers and celebrities. The Eden Project in Cornwall, recently expanded in 2024, offers one of the UK's top attractions for science and nature lovers.
>> Find accommodation in Cornwall
Cambridge
Cambridge is one of the world's most prestigious universities, with stunning medieval architecture throughout its colleges. The university includes famous graduates like Newton, Darwin, and Stephen Hawking. Located just 50 minutes from London King's Cross by train, Cambridge is perfect for a day trip or longer stay.
The city features exceptional medieval buildings, courtyards, beautiful gardens, and iconic bridges. The shop-lined streets, lively bars, and excellent restaurants complete the experience. In 2025, Cambridge completed a major renovation of the Fitzwilliam Museum, one of Europe's finest art collections, now with expanded gallery space and improved visitor facilities.
Punting on the River Cam is an unmissable experience. Take a picnic, relax with strawberries, and propel yourself downstream using a long pole. It's the English version of a gondola ride, though considerably drier if you avoid falling in. The King's College Chapel and the Backs area offer some of the most photographed views in England.
>> Find hotels in Cambridge
Brighton
Brighton leads fashion trends rather than following them. It's full of creative, colourful, eccentric people and emerging artists. This cool seaside town sits on England's south coast with excellent shopping, vibrant nightlife, and a laid-back beach atmosphere. Just 50 minutes from London Victoria by train, it's one of the most accessible coastal destinations.
The Royal Pavilion, home of King George IV, and the Victorian Brighton Pier are iconic landmarks. The seafront features surf shops, art galleries, fish and chip shops, and street performers. In 2025, Brighton completed a major pier renovation project, adding new attractions and improving structural integrity. The city hosts Britain's biggest arts festival plus comedy, music, and food festivals throughout the year.
Brighton is England's LGBTQ+ capital, making Brighton Summer Pride one of Europe's largest pride festivals. In December, the Burning of the Clocks celebrates the lengthening days with lantern processions and fireworks. The North Laines offer independent shops, vintage boutiques, and quirky cafes that define Brighton's character.
>> Find hotels in Brighton
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds, located in central-west England between Oxford, Bath, and Stratford-upon-Avon, covers 790 square miles of outstanding natural beauty. The region is defined by gentle rolling hills, dry-stone walls, and honey-coloured limestone villages that look like they've stepped out of a storybook. Train from London Paddington reaches Cheltenham or Oxford in about 1.5-2 hours.
Bath is a historic spa city with Georgian architecture, while Cheltenham hosts the famous Gold Cup horse racing festival each March - part of a weeklong celebration that attracts visitors worldwide. Villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Painswick showcase quintessential English charm. In 2025-2026, several villages have invested in sustainable tourism infrastructure while maintaining their character.
The Cotswolds attracts wealthy visitors and has become known for Michelin-starred restaurants, gastropubs, and farmers markets. The region features manor houses, National Trust properties, museums, and beautiful gardens. Walking trails connect villages, making it perfect for exploring by foot or by local bus networks that have been upgraded with electric vehicles.
>> Read more about visiting the Cotswolds
The Yorkshire Dales
Yorkshire folk are known for their no-nonsense attitude, great humour, and excellent hospitality. This northern region offers beautiful dales (valleys), heather moors, and dramatic landscapes perfect for walking, hiking, and mountain biking. Direct train from London King's Cross to Leeds takes about 2 hours, with connections to market towns throughout the region.
The Yorkshire Dales feature sweeping valleys, sleepy meadows, high fells, woodland, dramatic rocky crags, caves, historic buildings, and bustling market towns. Stone barns and houses scattered throughout the landscape create postcard-worthy views. An abundance of waterfalls and the famous Ribblehead Viaduct make this an Instagram hotspot. In 2025, the region launched a new walking app and improved trail signage throughout.
If hiking isn't your preference, the Settle-Carlisle Railway offers scenic steam train journeys through the Dales. The region has excellent local cheeses, ales, and restaurants. Places like Grassington, Settle, and Skipton are charming base towns with independent shops, cafes, and pubs serving proper Yorkshire puddings.
Manchester
Manchester is England's second city and the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. It's home to Manchester United, one of the world's most famous football clubs. Fans from every corner of the globe still ask Mancunians about supporting United. Visit Old Trafford stadium for a tour, match experience, or museum exploring the club's legendary history. Direct train from London Euston takes about 2 hours.
Manchester's musical heritage is legendary. Oasis, The Smiths, Joy Division, and contemporary bands have emerged from the city's vibrant scene. The O2 Apollo and O2 Victoria Hall host major international acts. In 2024-2025, Manchester expanded its music venues and cultural spaces, including renovations to historic theatres and new independent concert halls in the Northern Quarter.
This multicultural city excels in food, art, and entertainment. The Curry Mile offers authentic South Asian cuisine. The Lowry Centre and Art Gallery showcase contemporary art. URBIS museum explores urban culture and design. The Metrolink tram system makes getting around easy. Nightlife centres around the Northern Quarter, Deansgate, and Castlefield. Manchester has successfully blended its industrial heritage with modern development - a perfect example of urban revitalisation.
>> Book a flight to Manchester
The Lake District
The Lake District was home to Beatrix Potter, author of beloved children's books, and inspired poet William Wordsworth. Today it remains England's largest National Park, nurturing writers, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in England's northwest, it's accessible by train from London Euston to Kendal or Windermere in about 3-3.5 hours.
The stunning scenery includes dramatic peaks, fells, deep valleys, pristine lakes, charming towns, and villages. It's excellent for walking, climbing, and cycling. On the lakes themselves, you can sail, kite surf, and windsurf. In 2025, the Lake District National Park completed major path improvements and introduced a new sustainable transport shuttle service to reduce vehicle traffic while maintaining visitor access.
Must-do experiences include cruising Lake Windermere, exploring Beatrix Potter's home and gardens at Hill Top, and visiting Dove Cottage, William Wordsworth's residence. The region offers Michelin-starred restaurants alongside cosy mountain pubs. Towns like Ambleside and Keswick provide excellent bases. Browse independent shops for local crafts, art, and outdoor gear. In winter, the lakes create magical misty mornings perfect for photography.
Oxford
Oxford University is the oldest university in the English-speaking world, with colleges dating back to the 12th century. Just 1 hour from London Paddington by train, it's perfect for a day trip or overnight stay. The city inspired the Harry Potter films - many scenes were filmed in Oxford's ancient colleges and alleyways.
Walk through historic quads and courtyards dating back centuries. Climb the tower of the University Church for panoramic views. Browse the Bodleian Library, one of Britain's most important libraries. Punting on the River Cherwell is a quintessential Oxford experience. In 2025, Oxford completed renovation of several undergraduate colleges and opened a new contemporary art museum expanding the city's cultural offerings.
The city blends academic traditions with modern student culture. High Street offers shopping, while the Covered Market has sold everything from flowers to freshly cooked food since 1774. Excellent pubs and restaurants range from student hangouts to fine dining. The surrounding Cotswolds are within easy reach, making Oxford an ideal base for exploring central England.
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