Things To Do In England Outside Of London

I remember my first proper trip to England, and bless my naive heart, I thought London was it. The be all and end all. I’d devoured enough Dickens and watched enough Sherlock Holmes reruns to believe that the entire country pulsed with the same frenetic energy, the same iconic red buses, the same drizzle. Then, my Auntie Brenda, a woman whose accent could curdle milk and whose knowledge of herbaceous borders was unparalleled, insisted I join her for a weekend in the Cotswolds. "Darling," she'd said, flicking imaginary dust from her cardigan, "London's all well and good for a bit of a gawp, but the real England? You'll find that out here." And oh, was she right. I discovered a world of rolling hills, honey-coloured stone, and tea rooms that served scones so light they practically levitated. That weekend, my entire perception of England shifted. It was like opening a secret door I didn’t even know existed.

And that, my friends, is precisely why we need to talk about what lies beyond the M25. Because while London is undeniably magnificent, a glittering, sprawling metropolis that deserves every ounce of its fame, it’s only one slice of the English pie. And believe me, there are some very delicious other slices out there, just waiting to be devoured. So, if you've done your fair share of queuing for the Tower of London and battling the crowds on Oxford Street, it's time to pack your sensible shoes (because, let's be honest, they're always a good idea in England) and venture forth. Let's explore the real England, shall we?

Beyond the Big Smoke: A Whirlwind Tour of England's Delights

So, where do we begin this grand adventure? It's a big country, after all, and we can't possibly cover everything (wouldn't that be a book, not a blog post?), but we can certainly hit some highlights. Think of this as your personalised itinerary, curated by yours truly, with a dash of my Auntie Brenda’s wisdom thrown in. Ready?

The Enchanting Cotswolds: Pretty as a Postcard (Seriously)

Ah, the Cotswolds. My Auntie Brenda’s spiritual homeland. If you’ve ever seen a picture of quintessential English countryside – think thatched cottages, babbling brooks, and sheep looking vaguely judgmental – chances are, it was taken here. It’s a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and that’s not just a fancy government label. It’s the honest-to-goodness truth.

Villages like Bourton-on-the-Water are almost impossibly charming. They call it the "Venice of the Cotswolds" because of the River Windrush that flows right through its centre, crossed by picturesque stone bridges. It’s a bit touristy, yes, but there’s a reason for that. It’s just so pretty. Grab a cream tea at a riverside cafe and just… breathe. Don’t forget to visit the Model Village – it’s exactly what it sounds like, and surprisingly delightful.

Then there’s Bibury. William Morris himself described it as "the most beautiful village in England." High praise, indeed! Arlington Row, a street of 17th-century weavers' cottages, looks like it's been plucked straight from a fairy tale. Honestly, I half expected a hobbit to pop out from behind a flower pot. Just be prepared for crowds, especially on a sunny day. It's a popular spot for a reason, after all.

For something a little less crowded but equally stunning, consider Lower Slaughter. It's a village where time seems to have stood still. The Old Mill, complete with its working water wheel, is a beautiful focal point. And the walking paths here are simply divine. Imagine strolling through fields dotted with wildflowers, with nothing but the sound of birdsong and the distant bleating of sheep for company. Pure bliss.

Pro-tip: Renting a car is pretty much essential for exploring the Cotswolds properly. Public transport can be a bit… leisurely. And yes, pack those walking boots. You’ll want to explore every single winding lane and hidden footpath. You might even spot a celebrity or two; it’s a bit of a magnet for them.

The Historic Heart of England: Bath and Beyond

Heading southwest, we stumble upon Bath. If you're a fan of Georgian architecture, Roman history, or just generally looking at beautiful things, Bath is your place. It’s like stepping back in time, but with really good coffee shops.

The obvious must-do is the Roman Baths. It's an incredibly well-preserved site, and you can actually see the steaming waters that the Romans used nearly 2,000 years ago. It’s fascinating to think about the people who walked those very stones all those centuries ago. And yes, the museum is surprisingly engaging. You’ll learn more about Roman bathing habits than you ever thought you needed to know.

Then there's the architecture. The Royal Crescent and the Circus are simply breathtaking. The honey-coloured Bath stone glows in the sunlight, making it feel impossibly grand and elegant. Wander through the streets, admire the intricate facades, and maybe pretend you’re a character in a Jane Austen novel. I certainly did.

And speaking of Jane Austen, Bath was a significant place in her life. You can visit the Jane Austen Centre, a charming museum dedicated to her work and her time in the city. It’s a delightful escape for any literature buffs.

Don't miss the Pulteney Bridge, one of only a handful of historic bridges in the world with shops built into its sides. It’s a unique architectural marvel. And for a bit of a splurge, you could even try the thermal baths at the Thermae Bath Spa – a modern take on the ancient bathing tradition. It’s rather lovely, especially on a chilly evening.

Side note: If you're in Bath, make time for a proper afternoon tea. It's an institution, and the city does it with a flourish. Think delicate sandwiches, exquisite cakes, and, of course, scones with clotted cream and jam. Sighs happily.

The Rugged Beauty of the Lake District

Now, let’s head north to a landscape that’s a world away from the gentle rolling hills of the Cotswolds. The Lake District is all about dramatic mountains, shimmering lakes, and windswept moors. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel small and insignificant in the most wonderful way.

This is prime walking country. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just fancy a gentle stroll around a lake, there’s something for everyone. Scafell Pike is England’s highest mountain, a challenge for the adventurous. But for a more relaxed experience, consider a walk around Grasmere or Windermere, the largest natural lake in England. You can even take a boat trip on the lake – highly recommended for soaking in the views without getting your socks wet.

The charming towns and villages are just as appealing. Bowness-on-Windermere is a bustling hub with plenty of shops and cafes. Ambleside is a great base for exploring the surrounding fells. And Grasmere is famous for its gingerbread, a unique and surprisingly addictive treat. Seriously, you won't be able to stop at one.

For literature lovers, this is Wordsworth country. You can visit Dove Cottage, his former home, and walk the landscapes that inspired some of his most famous poetry. It’s incredibly atmospheric. And Beatrix Potter also spent a lot of time here, so there’s a certain charm for fans of Peter Rabbit and his friends.

Quick thought: The weather in the Lake District can be famously unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproofs, and be prepared for sunshine, rain, and maybe even a bit of mist, all within the same hour. It’s all part of the charm, really!

The Yorkshire Dales: Dramatic Vistas and Friendly Pubs

Speaking of dramatic landscapes, let’s talk about the Yorkshire Dales. If you've ever seen the TV show All Creatures Great and Small, you'll have a pretty good idea of the kind of scenery we're talking about: rolling green hills, dry-stone walls stretching as far as the eye can see, and stone-built villages that look like they’ve been there forever.

This is another fantastic area for walking and exploring. The Malham Cove is a must-see – a huge natural amphitheatre of limestone, with a fascinating pavement-like rock formation at the top. It’s a bit of a trek to get there, but utterly worth it. You might even recognise it from Harry Potter!

Then there are the waterfalls. Aysgarth Falls are a series of cascades that are particularly spectacular after rain. The sheer power of the water is mesmerizing. And for something a bit more hidden, try the smaller falls around Hardraw Force.

The villages are gems too. Grassington is a delightful market town with cobbled streets and independent shops. Hawes, in Wensleydale, is famous for its cheese (obviously) and is a great place to stop for a hearty lunch. And Malham itself is a charming village nestled beneath the impressive cove.

Don't forget: A visit to the Dales wouldn't be complete without a stop at a traditional Yorkshire pub. Think roaring fires, locally brewed ale, and generous portions of hearty food. It's the perfect place to refuel after a day of exploring. And if you’re lucky, you might even hear some proper Yorkshire dialect!

The Historic Coastline: Cornwall and the Jurassic Coast

England isn't just about rolling hills and mountains; it has a spectacular coastline too! Let's start with the southwestern tip: Cornwall. Think golden sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque fishing villages. It's a popular holiday destination for a reason, and it’s easy to see why.

St Ives is a particular favourite. It's a vibrant harbour town with a thriving arts scene, beautiful beaches, and fantastic seafood restaurants. The Tate St Ives is a must for art lovers, and just wandering the cobbled streets is a joy.

Further along, you have places like Padstow, often called "Padstein" thanks to celebrity chef Rick Stein, who has put it firmly on the culinary map. Even if you're not a foodie, the harbour and surrounding coastal paths are stunning.

For a truly wild and dramatic experience, head to the Jurassic Coast in Dorset. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stretches for 95 miles and is famous for its geological significance. You can find dinosaur fossils here! How cool is that?

Key spots include the iconic Dur dle Door, a natural limestone arch that’s instantly recognisable. Then there’s Lulworth Cove, a perfectly formed shell-shaped bay. And for fossil hunters, Charmouth is a prime location.

My advice: If you're visiting the coast, especially in summer, book accommodation and any popular attractions well in advance. Cornwall, in particular, gets very busy. And pack your swimwear, even if you're not brave enough for a dip in the bracing Atlantic!

The City Breaks (Not London, I Promise!)

While London gets all the attention, England has a wealth of other incredible cities, each with its own unique character and history.

Oxford and Cambridge. The "Cities of Dreaming Spires." Home to world-renowned universities, these cities are steeped in history and architectural beauty. Wander through the colleges, visit the Bodleian Library (yes, it’s as grand as it looks), and maybe even try your hand at punting on the River Cam. It’s a truly magical experience, especially on a sunny afternoon.

York. A city with Viking roots, Roman walls, and a magnificent Minster. York is a history buff's paradise. Walk along the ancient city walls, explore the narrow, medieval streets of The Shambles (so narrow, you can almost touch both sides!), and marvel at the sheer scale of York Minster. It's an awe-inspiring cathedral.

Manchester. A vibrant, modern city with a rich industrial heritage and a thriving music and arts scene. Manchester has undergone a massive transformation and is now a powerhouse of culture. Visit the Northern Quarter for independent shops and cafes, explore the museums (the Science and Industry Museum is fascinating), and catch some live music.

Liverpool. Famous for The Beatles, but so much more. Liverpool is a city with a proud maritime history and a friendly, welcoming spirit. Visit The Beatles Story, explore the Albert Dock, and soak up the maritime heritage at the Merseyside Maritime Museum. The architecture here is also stunning.

A little secret: Don’t underestimate the smaller cities either! Places like Bristol (with its creative vibe and street art), Newcastle (friendly locals and a lively nightlife), or even the historic cathedral city of Salisbury (gateway to Stonehenge, which is technically outside the city but worth the detour!) offer fantastic experiences.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

See? England is so much more than just London. It’s a tapestry of diverse landscapes, rich histories, charming villages, and vibrant cities. Whether you’re craving rugged nature, ancient ruins, literary haunts, or just a really good scone, there’s an adventure waiting for you just outside the capital.

So, next time you're planning a trip to England, think beyond the iconic skyline of London. Embrace the unexpected, venture off the beaten path, and discover the many, many wonders that lie waiting. Your Auntie Brenda would be so proud.