England, a land of rolling hills, quaint villages, and vibrant cities, is overflowing with incredible destinations that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you seek cobblestone streets echoing with history or the thrill of outdoor adventure, England’s towns offer an unforgettable escape. From dramatic coastal hideaways to hidden gems, I’ve fallen in love with countless destinations. In this article, I’m sharing my favourites – the best towns to visit in England that will capture your heart too!
Towns for History Buffs: Step Back in Time in England’s Most Storied Spots
If you’re a history nerd like me, England is a dream destination. Every cobblestone, every wonky half-timbered house seems to whisper tales of bygone eras. Here are some of the best towns to visit in England if you love getting lost in the past:
York: Vikings, Romans, and Chocolate
York is a time-traveller’s paradise. I spent hours wandering the Shambles, a medieval street so narrow you could almost touch both sides at once. The colossal York Minster cathedral blew me away with its intricate stained glass and sheer size. The JORVIK Viking Centre was a highlight – you literally ride through a reconstruction of a Viking village! And hey, history buffs need fuel too – York’s got a surprisingly strong chocolate scene.
Bath: Georgian Elegance Meets Ancient Springs
Bath lives up to its name! Exploring this ancient complex built around the natural hot springs was incredible. Imagining those who came centuries ago for the water’s supposed healing properties was fascinating. But Bath isn’t just about the Romans. Strolling through the grand boulevards lined with Georgian architecture was like stepping into a Jane Austen novel – truly elegant!
Rye: Smugglers’ Haunts and Cobbled Charm
Rye was my picture-postcard English town dream come true! I felt like I’d tumbled into a storybook. Cobbled lanes wind past ancient inns and crooked houses. There’s a whiff of adventure in the air – Rye was once a hotbed of smuggling activity. Climb the tower of St. Mary’s Church for sweeping views and a feel for Rye’s strategic position near the coast.
Spa Lovers: Unwind and Rejuvenate in England’s Finest Spa Towns
Sometimes a staycation needs a little bit of pampering, and England is home to truly special destinations for those seeking luxurious relaxation. Here are my top picks for the most beautiful towns in England with a focus on wellness:
Buxton: Peak District Pampering
The elegant spa town of Buxton nestled in the Peak District was a delightful surprise. The centrepiece is the Buxton Crescent Spa Hotel (check out my review!) with its restored thermal baths and modern spa facilities. I loved wandering through the Victorian Pavilion Gardens and sampling the town’s famous spring water. Need more adventure? My “10 Unmissable Things to Do in Buxton in a Day” blog has ideas for exploring the stunning surrounding countryside.
Harrogate: Yorkshire Elegance
Harrogate exudes Victorian charm. My favourite experience was a traditional Turkish bath at the town’s opulent spa – a scrub-down and massage left me feeling brand new. Afterward, nothing beats an afternoon tea at the iconic Betty’s Tea Rooms. It felt truly decadent! Harrogate’s manicured gardens, like the Valley Gardens, and independent boutiques make it the perfect strolling town.
Seaside Charm: Experience the Best of England’s Coastal Towns
There’s something magical about the English seaside – the salty air, the cries of seagulls, and the timeless fun of fish and chips on the harbor wall. Here are a few of the prettiest towns in England that will capture your heart with their unique coastal charm:
Whitby: Gothic Atmosphere and Seaside Treats
Whitby is the perfect mix of spooky and charming. The dramatic ruins of Whitby Abbey, perched on the clifftops, inspired scenes in Dracula – you can definitely feel that gothic vibe! But Whitby is also all about classic seaside treats. I had the freshest fish and chips ever, followed by an exhilarating walk up the 199 steps for incredible coastal views.
St Ives: Artists’ Retreat and Turquoise Waters
It’s no wonder artists flock to St Ives in Cornwall. The light there is incredible, and the beaches are picture-perfect stretches of golden sand with unbelievably clear turquoise water. While a bit more developed than some other towns, it retains its charm. I loved browsing the galleries and shops in the maze-like streets and exploring the Tate St Ives perched right on the waterfront.
Robin Hood’s Bay: Smugglers and Seafaring Heritage
Clinging to a steep cliff on the rugged North Yorkshire coast, Robin Hood’s Bay is a labyrinth of narrow alleys and quaint cottages. You can almost hear the whisper of its smuggling past! Exploring the rock pools when the tide is out is a must. Sitting with a pint at a seafront pub, watching the fishing boats bobbing in the harbour, felt like quintessential England.
Southwold: Lighthouses and Beach Huts
Southwold has a timeless seaside appeal. The iconic lighthouse and colourful beach huts lining the shore are postcard material. It has a relaxed vibe perfect for lazy beach days. After strolling the pier, treat yourself to the freshest seafood or grab an ice cream and soak up the sun.
For the Outdoorsy Types: Discover England’s Most Adventurous Towns
If your happy place involves hiking boots, stunning views, and a touch of adrenaline, England has some incredible places to fuel your adventurous spirit. Here are a few of the best towns to visit in England that are perfect basecamps for outdoor explorers:
Keswick (Lake District): Mountain Highs and Lakeside Charm
Keswick stole my heart! It’s the ideal Lake District town – charming streets, outdoor gear shops, and pubs aplenty for post-adventure refuelling. Hiking options abound: tackle the heights of Skiddaw, follow lakeshore paths, or venture into dramatic valleys. If water is your thing, kayaking or canoeing on Derwentwater surrounded by stunning scenery is unforgettable.
Bakewell (Peak District): Rolling Hills and Sweet Treats
Bakewell is a classic Peak District gem. It’s most famous for the Bakewell Pudding (which you absolutely have to try!), but the real draw for me was its location. Rolling hills and dales begging to be explored start right at its doorstep. The Monsal Trail, a disused railway track turned walking and cycling path, is perfect for a scenic, traffic-free adventure.
The Cotswolds: Villages Straight out of a Postcard
Okay, technically this is a whole region, but it’s a must! Each Cotswold village (think Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Castle Combe) is impossibly idyllic with honey-coloured stone houses and babbling brooks. Hiking trails weave between them, through meadows and woodland. Get those walking boots ready, and treat yourself to a cosy pub meal at the end of a satisfying day.
Lyme Regis (Jurassic Coast): Fossils, Beaches, and Breath-taking Walks
The Jurassic Coast is a dramatic stretch of shoreline famous for its fossil finds. Lyme Regis is the perfect base for exploring it. Hunt for ancient treasures on the beach! Then, take on the challenging but rewarding coastal paths for stunning views over the cliffs and sea. Plus, the town itself is delightful, with winding streets and a bustling harbour.
Best for Bookworms: Literary Adventures in England’s Most Charming Towns
If your idea of a perfect getaway involves browsing overflowing bookshelves, cosy cafes, and a touch of literary history, here are some of the best towns to visit in England for book lovers:
Hay-on-Wye: The Town Built on Books
Hay-on-Wye is a small town with a big personality, known globally for its abundance of bookstores. Every nook and cranny seems to house another shop bursting with second-hand treasures. The Hay Festival, a major literary event, adds to the buzz. It’s a paradise for bibliophiles – get ready to get lost in time (and stacks of books!).
Oxford: The City of Dreaming Spires
Oxford is synonymous with literary greatness and academic prestige. Walking amongst its hallowed university halls, you can almost feel the presence of Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and countless other literary figures. Don’t miss the Bodleian Library, one of the world’s oldest. Pop into historic pubs where famous authors once debated ideas over pints. It’s the ultimate setting for a bookish escape.
Alnwick (Bonus: Harry Potter fans): Where Magic Awaits
Alnwick is home to the enchanting Alnwick Castle, which doubled as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films – a major draw for Potterheads! But its charm extends beyond wizardry. Barter Books, housed in a former train station, is one of the UK’s largest second-hand bookstores. You’ll easily lose hours browsing its quirky rooms and vast collection.
Sedbergh (England’s Official Book Town): Hidden Gem Alert
Sedbergh boasts the title of England’s only official Book Town. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales, it might be smaller than Hay-on-Wye, but it packs a similar punch. Independent bookshops line its charming streets, offering curated collections and a warm welcome. It’s perfect for those who love the thrill of discovering unique finds and a less crowded literary experience.
Towns in England for Foodies
If you think English food is all about fish and chips (though done right, that’s delicious too!), you’re in for a tasty surprise. Here are a few of the best towns in England for food lovers seeking out fresh flavours, local producers, and culinary stars:
Ludlow (Shropshire): Michelin Stars and Market Town Charm
Ludlow is a foodie’s dream! Not only does it have a surprising number of Michelin-starred restaurants for a small town, but its medieval streets also hold fantastic delis and food shops. I loved exploring the bustling market, sampling local cheeses, cured meats, and handcrafted treats. Add in the imposing castle backdrop, and it’s both a delicious and picturesque destination.
Padstow (Cornwall): Seafood Heaven
It’s no secret celebrity chef Rick Stein put Padstow on the foodie map. Expect the freshest of seafood, prepared with respect and flair. There’s a great mix of high-end restaurants overlooking the harbour and casual spots perfect for classic fish and chips. For the full experience, try foraging for your own ingredients on the stunning Cornish coastline!
Melton Mowbray (Leicestershire): Home of Pork Pie Perfection
Melton Mowbray is a must-visit for lovers of savoury treats. This is the birthplace of the famous Melton Mowbray pork pie – a hand-raised, crusty pastry filled with deliciousness! But there’s more to discover: visit the historic Stilton cheesemakers in the area, explore the town’s farmers’ market, and indulge in cosy pubs serving up hearty local fare.
Hidden Gems: England’s Off-the-Beaten-Path Towns
England is full of delightful towns waiting to be discovered beyond the usual tourist hotspots. Here are some of my favourite hidden gem destinations that pack a punch of unexpected charm:
Knaresborough (North Yorkshire): Storybook Scenery and Quirky Traditions
This riverside town with its castle ruins perched on a clifftop felt straight out of a fairy tale. Exploring Mother Shipton’s Cave, where water has the magical properties to turn objects to stone, was fascinating! Don’t miss the annual Bed Race – decorated beds race through the streets and across the river, a testament to the town’s wonderfully quirky spirit.
Ironbridge (Shropshire): Where the Industrial Revolution Began
Nestled in a scenic gorge, Ironbridge is more than just its iconic bridge (the world’s first made of iron!). It’s a fascinating exploration of industrial heritage. Museums bring to life what it was like at the forefront of the Industrial Revolution. Walking its historic streets feels like stepping back in time, but with its independent shops and cafes, it also retains a vibrant energy.
Stamford (Lincolnshire): Architectural Masterpiece
Stamford boasts some of the finest stone architecture in England – it’s been used as a filming location for countless period dramas! Wandering its cobbled streets, lined with honey-colored houses and independent shops felt incredibly charming. For a dose of grandeur, nearby Burghley House, one of England’s grandest stately homes, is a must-visit.
I’m already daydreaming about the next Town to explore – maybe I’ll try another hiking town the Lake District or get lost in the maze of bookstores in Hay-on-Wye. What about you? Which of these charming towns has captured your imagination? Let me know in the comments.
