16 Locales in the United Kingdom That Are Calling Your Name
Cornwall, England
Located in England’s far southwest corner, Cornwall is defined by its breathtaking coastline that features 300 miles of cliffs, sandy dunes, ancient harbors and creeks winding through oak forests. It’s a wonderful place for relaxing and enjoying active pursuits, particularly walking, as much of it is accessible on foot.
Here you can climb down the natural stepping stones in the cliffs to search through tide pools and enjoy lounging on hidden beaches. Surfing, body boarding, and even swimming with basking sharks and seals are all possible here.
Not surprisingly, creatives of all types — particularly artists and photographers — are lured here by Cornwall’s vast skies and rugged beauty. Winter is a popular time for capturing photos thanks to the light that transforms the turquoise sea into an even more intense shade of blue. There are plenty of quaint fishing villages to explore as well, with Polperro widely known as the most picturesque of all.
Wiltshire: Salisbury to Stonehenge
Salisbury and nearby Stonehenge are considered must-experiences for anyone visiting England. An easy drive from London, Salisbury is one of the most historically important cities in Britain. It’s home to 13th-century Salisbury Cathedral, which boasts the tallest spire in England at over 400-feet-high and a beautiful mechanical clock that dates all the way back to 1386.
It also hosts the Magna Carta, which formed the basis of laws here for centuries.
Only minutes north, you can check off a travel bucket list destination at Stonehenge. The legendary ancient stone circle that features giant standing stones was built over several phases some time between 3,000 and 2,200 BC, though more recent radiocarbon dating has suggested that the first stones went up in 2,400 and 2,200 BC.
No matter the period, these 40-ton rocks that experts say were dragged through the desolate plain to reach Salisbury Plain are impressive and mysterious. No one has been able to prove just yet whether it was built as an astronomical clock, burial ground or religious temple.
This Cheese Journeys tour in England will give you the chance to meet world-famous cheesemakers with a stay in a charming English manor house.
London, England
If you have your eye on England, you’ll most likely fly into one of London’s airports. Spending at least some time in this cosmopolitan city can be a great way to begin or end your adventures. You’ll discover a practically endless list of famous sights, a rich dramatic history, countless shopping opportunities and a hopping nightlife.
It’s home to some of the world’s top museums and art galleries, many of which don’t charge an admission. Explore some of the most precious treasures on the planet at the British Museum, take in a bird’s eye view by riding the London Eye and do some celeb-spotting at Madame Tussauds.
You can shop to your heart’s delight on Oxford Street with its more than 300 shops, landmark stores and designer outlets, dine in high-end eateries, catch a theater performance or attend one of the many fun festivals held throughout the year. If you’re looking to skip the crowds, however, Kensington Street makes for a great alternative to the tourist trap that is Oxford Street.
