If you’re wondering what the best time of year to visit the English countryside is, you’ll be happy to know that autumn and winter are equally beautiful. Autumn is the perfect time to explore the countryside’s colorful leaf-peeping scenes, and the uncrowded winter months are perfect for cozy fireside pub sessions. The countryside is dotted with quaint towns and cities, including Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth, Hull, and Durham.
Exeter
Exeter is the county capital of Devon and is one of the most picturesque cities in the United Kingdom. It is also home to University of Exeter, where JK Rowling studied. As a result, many scenes from her novels and movies were based on Exeter. For instance, Gandy Street looks just like Diagon Alley, and the Vaults nightclub is reminiscent of the famous bank.
The city is home to a number of attractions. The Cathedral, which was built in the fifteenth century, is one of the most popular landmarks. It contains the world’s longest medieval vaulted ceiling. The vaults depict scenes from history, including the murder of Thomas Becket. The cathedral also features two Norman towers and the 15th-century Astronomical Clock. While in Exeter, make time to explore the cathedral’s interior. It is free to enter and visitors can listen to the Cathedral Choir’s beautiful music.
If you’re looking for a city break, Exeter is a fantastic choice. It offers plenty to see and do, and is a perfect place to mix sightseeing with relaxation. Exeter Cathedral is a striking and impressive Gothic building that’s worth seeing, and its row of medieval terraced houses is a cultural treasure trove.
Bristol
Bristol is the sixth largest city in England and home to nearly 450,000 people. Historically a port city, Bristol has flourished over the centuries. The city is a cultural hub and a popular destination for tourists. You can experience canal boat rides, quirky music venues, fun festivals, and a variety of art and architecture. You can also discover the unique history of this city while enjoying its natural beauty.
Bristol is home to the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, which is one of the best things to do while you are here. The historic centre also boasts the Bristol Aquarium and the UK’s only 3D planetarium. There are also several maritime attractions in the city, which was once a thriving trading port. For instance, you can visit the Matthew, a replica of John Cabot’s boat that he used to discover Newfoundland. You can also see the SS Great Britain, Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s engineering masterpiece, and the Cabot Tower.
If you like theatre, you’ll love the Bristol Hippodrome, a modern theater that has won awards for its stage productions. Its stage has been home to many top Broadway and West End shows and caters to all tastes. Bristol is also home to the mysterious graffiti artist Banksy, who is known for his unique style of graffiti art.
Plymouth
There are many places to see and things to do in Plymouth. It is a popular tourist destination that offers a coastal setting with beautiful green and rugged landscapes. The town is also home to Dartmoor National Park, which was designated as a National Park in 1951. Some popular sites to visit in Plymouth include Smeaton’s Tower, Mount Batten Peninsula, the National Marine Aquarium, and Buckland Abbey, the home of Sir Francis Drake. The city’s economy is largely based on tourism, and almost 12 million people visit Plymouth each year.
While in Plymouth, you can visit the University of Plymouth, which is home to over 30,000 students. Its campus is located in the city centre and hosts events. You can also stay in one of the city’s many hotels and guest houses. The Plymouth Tourist Information Centre has a full listing of places to stay in the city.
If you’re looking for outdoor activities, consider a day trip to the nearby town of Totnes, which is conveniently located near Plymouth. It’s a 25-minute train ride away or a half-hour drive, and you can park for free near the town’s castle. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to hike, consider a day trip to Dartmoor. The town is home to a 12th-century castle and is managed by English Heritage.
Hull
Hull, also known as Kingston upon Hull, is a port city in East Yorkshire. There are many reasons to visit this city, including the awe-inspiring aquarium that sits at the point where the River Hull and the Humber Estuary meet. The aquarium also features hands-on displays and an underwater viewing tunnel. Other places to see in Hull include the Streetlife Museum, which focuses on modes of transportation. Another historical attraction is the William Wilberforce House, which documents the abolition of slavery in England.
Whether you’re into history or science, Hull has something for everyone. The Hull Museum of Science and Industry exhibits artifacts from 235 million years ago, including 2,000 year old boats. Children and adults alike will have a blast exploring the exhibits, and you won’t want to miss the chance to see dinosaur bones and a real Iron Age sword. Admission to the museum is free.
Hull is also home to several museums, including the famous Wilberforce House. Wilberforce was a fierce opponent of the slave trade and his work eventually resulted in the Slave Trade Act of 1807, ending the exploitation of Africans in the UK. You can also enjoy free entertainment in East Park, Hull’s largest open space. You can even see deer, wallabies, rheas, and other native Australian animals. East Park is also home to regular concerts and events like the Hull Show.
York
If you’re looking for a city break in the UK, York is a great choice. The city is easily accessible by train from Liverpool, Newcastle, Leeds and Hull. It’s also a good option if you want to explore the countryside. There are many attractions within walking distance of each other, and the city is also bike-friendly. Bike hire is available at the railway station, making exploring the area easy.
If you’re looking for something a little different, consider a guided walking tour. A walking tour will give you a close-up view of the cathedral’s impressive features. You’ll also have a great view of the city center. While exploring York, be sure to check out the York Castle Museum. It has an impressive collection of biological and archaeological specimens, including a meteorite behind glass. The exhibits are curated to appeal to both children and adults.
The city also has plenty of cultural attractions to explore. The York Minster is an important building in the city, and it is the largest gothic cathedral in northern Europe. You can take the 275 steps to the tower’s central tower on Saturdays for an engaging tour. You can also stroll along the city walls for a scenic riverside stroll.
Cotswolds
One of the prettiest places in England is the Cotswolds. Here, you’ll find charming towns and villages with picturesque landscapes. If you love antiques, try visiting Snowshill Manor, a 16th-century manor house with a wonderful collection of artifacts from all over the world. Another historic hotel you can visit is the Abbots Grange Hotel.
Stowmarket: This picturesque market town is full of medieval vibes, and you can take in the architecture of Stowmarket Castle, a 14th-century building featuring a tree-framed doorway. Nearby attractions include the Cotswold Cheese Company and the Fosse Gallery, an art gallery featuring contemporary British art. You can also visit Lucy’s Tearoom for a traditional English afternoon tea, and The Porch House, Britain’s oldest pub.
Stanton: A sleepy village in the Cotswolds, Stanton is a quaint town surrounded by picturesque stone cottages. Visitors can sample local brews at the 17th-century pub, Stanton Mount Inn. Another interesting place to visit is the Stanton Guildhouse, which hosts summer art schools. There are classes in watercolour painting, stained glass, and pottery.
Lake District National Park
If you’re looking for a spectacular place to visit in England, the Lake District National Park should be on your list. This beautiful park is just over ninety square miles (2362 square kilometers) and contains many lakes and mountains. The highest peak in the park, Scafell Pike, is almost three thousand feet above sea level. The area is also known for its tranquility, and you’ll likely see plenty of wildlife.
The area is accessible by plane, car, or train. The nearest airport is Manchester, which has a train connection to Windermere. Other nearby airports include Glasgow Prestwick, Liverpool, Newcastle, and Edinburgh. From the airports, buses can be used to reach the main towns. While not the fastest mode of transportation, they are also less expensive. The best time to visit the Lake District is in the spring or summer. It is also the best time to go if you want to enjoy outdoor activities.
The Lake District is a beautiful area that has inspired many famous writers and artists. It is England’s largest national park and features England’s highest mountain and largest lake. Famous authors William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter lived and wrote in the region.
Norwich
Norwich is a small, historic city in the English countryside. It was once the largest city in England, but is now small enough to walk around in an hour. The city centre is easy to navigate, and the main attractions are located close together. Norwich has plenty to do for visitors of all ages.
The city is home to many parks and green spaces, making it a wonderful place to stroll in nature. You can also enjoy activities for the whole family in Eaton Park, which features a large sports complex, tennis courts, and a pitch-and-putt course.
If you’re interested in history, Norwich’s city museum is worth visiting. The East Gallery at the Norwich University of the Arts offers free exhibitions throughout the year. You’ll also find the Museum of Norwich, housed in a former house of correction. There’s also a Tudor merchant’s house called Strangers’ Hall, which is themed as a living doll’s house.