England Things to Do

One of England’s most beloved childrens’ authors, Beatrix Potter has been enchanting readers with her animal storybooks since she published her first book in 1901 and those looking to uncover the landscapes that inspired her artistry will find plenty to marvel over in the idyllic Lake District. Potter and the Lake District remain inextricably linked – the landscape that inspired many of her drawings owes a great debt to Potter, who purchased vast amounts of land in order to preserve it and bequeathed fourteen farms and 4000 acres of land to the National Trust upon her death.

With miles of dramatic coastline and world-famous seaside resorts, what England lacks in tropical weather, it makes up for in rugged scenery and seafront entertainment. If you’re choosing to hit the beach in the UK, you’ll be in good company, as many cash-strapped Brits are choosing to holiday on home turf and coastal resorts will be putting on plenty of summertime entertainment to keep the masses happy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or dazzling party hub, these are some of England’s best seaside towns.

2008’s European Capital of Culture, Liverpool, still reigns strong as one of Northern England’s most visited cities. Whether you’re looking to discover the music scene that gave birth to The Beatles, walk along the famous Pier Head Waterfront or catch one of the city’s world famous football teams in action, there’s plenty to keep you busy in the legendary Liverpool. An extensive bus and train network serve the city, but for a more entertaining way to get around town, here are a few alternatives.

Since the country’s first steam railway opened up in 1825, England has become a champion of rail travel, with a vast network of tracks running the length and breadth of the country. Today, high speed, comfortable trains run from London to destinations in every corner of the UK, as well as the cross-channel Eurostar running to locations in France and Belgium.

An industrial city tracing the southernmost borders of Yorkshire, Sheffield is perhaps best known as the gateway to the Peak District, one of England’s most popular National Parks. While not technically part of Sheffield, the city makes a great starting point for hikers and campers, and with some 22 million annual visitors to the park, there’s a steady stream of visitors passing through.

Yes, the weather’s often not great in Manchester but don’t let that put you off, Manchester is a lively, historic northern city which has spawned some excellent music (Oasis, The Smiths, Manchester’s Factory music label). Once a great manufacturing power, the city still has the buildings to show its affluent past.