15 of England's best places to visit | Page 1 | Best of Britain Travel Guides

15 of England's best places to visit in 2023

Make 2023 the year to explore our beautiful country of England. Here are 15 of our favourite places to visit this year.

1. York

York is a historic city located in the north of England. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and cultural heritage, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK. Some of the most famous attractions in York include York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, the medieval city walls, which encircle the city center and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and the Jorvik Viking Centre, which offers a unique interactive experience exploring the history of the Vikings in York.

Photo by Karl Moran

2. Polperro

Polperro is a small fishing village located on the south coast of Cornwall, England. It is famous for its narrow, winding streets, historic harbour, and traditional thatched cottages. The village has a rich maritime history and was once a thriving center for the pilchard fishing industry. Today, the harbour is home to a small fleet of fishing boats, as well as a number of pleasure boats. Polperro is surrounded by beautiful countryside and cliffs, making it a popular destination for walkers and nature lovers. The village is also home to several museums, including the Polperro Heritage Museum, which tells the story of the village's history and the local fishing industry.

Photo by Einar H. Reynis

3. Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh Castle is a magnificent castle located on the coast of Northumberland, England. It was built in the 11th century and has been a symbol of the region's rich history for centuries. The castle has been beautifully restored and today visitors can explore its impressive towers, grand halls, and stunning views of the North Sea. Bamburgh Castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens, including the charming walled garden, which is filled with blooming flowers and herbs. In addition to its history and beauty, Bamburgh Castle is also known for its rich cultural heritage, and it hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including medieval reenactments, outdoor theatre performances, and festivals.

Photo by Jonny Glos

4. Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water is a charming village located in the heart of the Cotswolds region of England. It is often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” due to its series of bridges crossing the River Windrush. The village is known for its picturesque stone cottages, elegant boutiques, and traditional tea rooms. Visitors can explore the charming streets, take a relaxing walk along the river, or visit one of the many local attractions such as the Model Village, the Cotswold Motoring Museum, or the Perfumery. Bourton-on-the-Water is a popular destination for tourists and a perfect place to experience the natural beauty and traditional charm of the Cotswolds.

Photo by Neil Mark Thomas

5. Staithes

Staithes is a historic fishing village located on the coast of North Yorkshire, England. It is known for its charming cobbled streets, picturesque harbour, and stunning coastal scenery. The village has a rich history, dating back to the medieval period, and was once a busy port for smugglers. Today, Staithes is a popular destination for tourists who come to enjoy its breathtaking coastal walks, quaint street, and charming pubs. Visitors to the village can explore its narrow alleyways, which are lined with traditional fisherman's cottages, and admire its stunning views of the North Sea. Staithes is also known for its artistic heritage and was once home to the famous Staithes Group of artists, including the painter, James Clarke Hook.