England is a country that is known for its diverse nature. It is located in the British Isles, which are surrounded by water. England has an estimated population of approximately 65 million people and is one of the largest countries in the world.
England has some of the most beautiful areas in Europe and is home to many historical sites such as Stonehenge, Canterbury Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. Here are some of the top places to visit in England:
1. Stonehenge
Stonehenge in Wiltshire is considered to be among the most remarkable sites within the entire modern world.
The prehistoric monument, which comprises stones that reach up to 30 ft. (9 m) in height and weigh up to 25 tons (22.6 metric tons), is thought to have been constructed around 3,000 to 2,000 BC, though the exact dates remain open to question.
The site was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1986, and although it is not entirely clear as to its true purpose, a number of studies have suggested that Stonehenge was utilized as a burial ground by Neolithic and Bronze Age peoples.
2. York: York Minster
Considered as one of the finest cathedrals in all of Great Britain, York Minster is likewise the largest in Northern Europe.
Among the highlights are the chapter house and the Gothic nave, together with the beautiful stained glass windows which date back to medieval times.
The Five Sisters Window stands out, stretching to over 52 ft. (16 m) in height.
York Minster was originally constructed in the 14th century as a way to demonstrate a clear Christian presence within England and far beyond.
William Shakespeare Birthplace In Stratford Upon Avon
For all those with a passion for literature, there’s no doubt that a thrilling experience is to be had upon visiting the home of Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire.
The sizable living quarters have been surprisingly well-preserved over the centuries since his birth in 1564, and you can still witness various remnants pertaining to the life of this outstanding poet, whom many regard as the most celebrated writer in the world of English literature.
3. Warwick, Warwickshire: Warwick Castle
Warwick Castle is a medieval castle which dates back to 1068, and was built by William the Conqueror not long after the Norman Conquest. Originally, it was created using wooden motte and bailey, though it was then rebuilt in the 12th century using stone.
Until the early 17th century, it was utilized as a stronghold, after which it was gifted by King James I to Sir Fulke Greville and converted into a country dwelling.
It remained under the Greville family name until The Tussaud Group purchased it in 1978, at which point it was developed into a tourist attraction.
The castle is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
4. Cumbria: Lake District National Park
The Lake District National Park is frequently referred to as The Lakes and is famed due to the beautiful lakes, mountains, and surrounding forests.
It is associated with great writers such as the 19th Century poet William Wordsworth who would often meander the foothills.
Aside from the amazing landscapes, The Lakes are also recognized on account of the fact that the area plays host to the longest and deepest lake in England. Wastwater is 3 miles (4.6 km) long and 258 feet (79 m) deep.
5. London: Madam Tussaud’s Wax Museum
The British Museum, which was established in 1753, plays host to numerous permanent collections of artifacts which number over 8 million pieces in all.
It holds some of the most prestigious and comprehensive collections hailing from every continent around the globe.Doors open daily from 10 a.m. and close at 5.30 p.m. and 8.30 p.m. on Fridays. Entry is free of charge.
6. Jurassic Coast
Covering a distance of 95 miles (153 km.) and stretching along the coastline of the English Channel between East Devon and Dorset, the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site offers a unique insight into the Earth’s geological foundation.
Take a walk through time and marvel at the variety of rock formations which span through three of Earth’s time zones: Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous, 185 million years in all.
7. London: Soho
Soho is known for its live entertainment, opulent cuisines, and of course for the pulsating nightlife.
Arguably, Soho is London’s center for gallant celebrations, be that music, art, literature, theater, fashion, food, or film.
Furthermore, for those who enjoy meandering around little quirky shops and then relaxing in the most fashionable and luxurious of hotels, Soho is the place to be. It boasts the most “creative” square mile in all of London.
8. Canterbury, Kent: Canterbury Cathedral
Arguably the most popular of Christian structures within England, Canterbury Cathedral is the home to the Archbishop of Canterbury, the principal leader and senior bishop of the Church of England as well as the symbolic head of the global Anglican Communion.
The cathedral was founded in 597 and reconstructed between 1070 and 1077. Further renovation occurred in 1174 when it was bestowed with a more Gothic style at which point it housed pilgrims as they ventured to worship at the shrine of Thomas Becket, who was the Archbishop of Canterbury until the year 1170 when he was unceremoniously murdered.
9. Salisbury, Wiltshire: Salisbury Cathedral
Salisbury Cathedral, otherwise known as the Cathedral Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, was constructed in the 13th century.
It is a leading example of early English architecture, and possesses the tallest church spire in the entire country which stands at 404 ft. (123 m).
The church tower is open to the public and visitors can view the rather spectacular wooden innards of the ancient spire.
The cathedral also plays home to the world’s oldest working clock which was crafted in 1386, and the best surviving copy of the Magna Carta (there are four original copies in all) is safely held within the cathedral walls.
10. Berkshire: Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle, one of the British royal family’s residences, is located in the county of Berkshire.
It was originally built during the 11th century, not long after the Norman invasion led by William the Conqueror. Ever since Henry I came to the thrown in 1100, the castle has been utilized by succeeding monarchs, and represents the longest-occupied palace in all of Europe.
Originally, the castle was built to ensure Norman dominance within and around the outskirts of London, as well as to oversee what was then a particularly strategically important part of the River Thames.
It is now the favored weekend residence of the current British regent, Queen Elizabeth II, and also serves as a venue for state visits and as popular tourist attraction.
