13 beautiful places in South England you need to visit

Rolling green hills, charming villages filled with centuries-old cottages, vibrant historic cities and spectacular coastal landscapes that make you stop for a photo time and time again. South England was never particularly high on my bucket list, but this road trip completely exceeded my expectations. From the idyllic countryside of the Cotswolds and character-filled historic towns to dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches and cosy pubs where you could happily spend an entire afternoon, this region is far more diverse than I ever imagined. The more I explored, the more I fell in love with it. In this guide, I’ll take you to some of the most beautiful places in South England and share the destinations that made this road trip so memorable. One thing is certain: I’ll definitely be back someday.

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About South England

South England is a region full of contrasts, where historic cities, idyllic countryside and spectacular coastal scenery come together effortlessly. The region stretches from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and the inland national parks to the iconic white chalk cliffs along the southern coast. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming villages with thatched cottages, lively harbour towns and centuries-old castles.

History is never far away here. From the mysterious Stonehenge, which has overlooked the landscape for thousands of years, to Roman bathhouses, medieval castles and grand country estates, South England is steeped in history. The Romans, Saxons, Normans and Tudors have all left their mark, meaning you’ll find traces of the past almost everywhere you go. At the same time, the region feels surprisingly vibrant and modern, with welcoming market towns, traditional pubs and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages you to slow down.

What surprised me most about South England is just how diverse it is. One moment you’re wandering through rolling countryside and picturesque villages that look as though they’ve been lifted straight from a fairy tale, and the next you’re exploring a historic city or standing on top of a dramatic cliff overlooking the sea. It’s exactly this variety that makes a road trip through South England so special and ensures you’ll keep discovering places that stay with you long after your journey ends.

How to travel to South England

There are several ways to reach South England from Belgium. The fastest option is to fly, with direct flights to destinations such as London, Bristol and Southampton. The Eurostar is another comfortable choice: from Brussels, you can reach central London in around two hours, making it easy to continue your journey to other destinations across South England.

Prefer travelling with your own car? You can take the ferry from Dunkirk or Calais to Dover, or cross the Channel via the Eurotunnel between Calais and Folkestone. This is a particularly popular option for a road trip, as it gives you complete freedom to explore the region at your own pace.

A car is almost essential when travelling around South England. Many of the most beautiful villages, coastal towns and natural attractions are difficult to reach by public transport. If you’re arriving by plane or train, you can easily rent a car at the airport or in the city.

Before you go, I also recommend reading my guide featuring 10 England travel tips you should know before you go. It covers practical information about driving in England, booking accommodation, payment methods, tipping etiquette and other useful tips that will make your trip much smoother.

How much time do you need for a South England road trip?

That largely depends on how much you want to see and the pace at which you like to travel. We spent ten days exploring South England, but even that turned out to be too short. We love discovering as much as possible, while also taking the time to slow down and truly enjoy a destination. As a result, we had to remove several places from our itinerary and didn’t even make it all the way to the far south of England. A perfect excuse to come back one day.

If you only have a few days, I recommend focusing on a single region, such as the Cotswolds, Kent and East Sussex, or the Jurassic Coast. That way, you’ll spend less time driving and more time actually exploring.

If you have a week or longer, consider focusing on either East or West South England and combining several highlights. Try not to cram too much into one trip. South England is larger than it seems, and it would be a shame to spend more time on the road than enjoying the destinations themselves. For me, the charm of this region lies in travelling at a relaxed pace, stopping whenever something catches your eye and occasionally letting go of the plan altogether.

13 beautiful places in South England you can’t miss

South England is a surprisingly large and diverse region with an incredible number of places to visit. During our ten-day road trip, we quickly realised that our itinerary was far too ambitious. There is simply so much to see that it’s impossible to experience everything in a single trip. That’s why I consider this guide a growing collection of destinations that will continue to expand over the coming years. Every time I discover a new hidden gem in South England, it will definitely earn a place on this list.

To make planning your trip a little easier, I’ve also included a map featuring all the beautiful places in South England mentioned in this guide. This gives you a clear overview of the locations and makes it easier to decide which destinations you want to combine during your South England road trip.

1 – White Cliffs of Dover

There are few places as iconic to England as the White Cliffs of Dover. Rising more than 100 metres above the English Channel, these impressive chalk cliffs quite literally serve as England’s gateway. When we arrived on an early morning ferry from France, we decided to head straight to the cliffs for our first walk of the trip. Looking back, it was the perfect decision. After an early start and the crossing, there was no better way to wake up than with fresh sea air, spectacular views and that wonderful feeling of a new adventure beginning.

What makes this place even more special is its rich history. The cliffs held strategic importance for centuries and played a crucial role during the Second World War. Along the walking trails, you’ll still come across remnants of bunkers, observation posts and military installations. If you’d like to learn more about the area’s wartime past, you can also visit the underground Fan Bay Deep Shelter, where soldiers were stationed during the war.

The most popular walk runs from the visitor centre to South Foreland Lighthouse. Along the way, you’ll follow the cliff edge with ever-changing views of the sea, the dramatic white cliffs and, on clear days, even the French coastline. The round-trip walk is approximately 6 kilometres and is suitable for most visitors.

Be sure to continue all the way to South Foreland Lighthouse. Not only for the views, but also for the charming Mrs Knott’s Tea Room located beside the lighthouse. We stopped here for coffee and cake and, honestly, it was exactly the kind of quintessential English experience I had secretly hoped for. A cosy tearoom, vintage china, freshly baked scones and sea views. What more could you ask for?

Practical information

• Location: Between Dover and St Margaret’s Bay
• Parking: At the White Cliffs of Dover Visitor Centre
• Parking fee: Paid parking (free for National Trust members)
• Entrance: Walking on the cliffs is free
• Walk: Visitor Centre → South Foreland Lighthouse (approximately 6 km return)
• Facilities: Visitor centre, toilets, café and shop
• Nearby accommodation: Royal Oak, The Lydden Bell and St Martins Guest House 

If you’re entering South England via Dover, I would absolutely recommend making this your first stop. For us, it was the perfect start to our road trip and one of the most memorable first impressions of the entire journey. The combination of spectacular scenery, fascinating history and classic English charm makes this one of the absolute highlights of South England.

2 – Canterbury

Canterbury was one of those cities that immediately won me over. With its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, charming shopping lanes and centuries-old buildings, it feels as though you’ve stepped back in time. At the same time, the city has a lively atmosphere thanks to its many cafés, restaurants and student population, which give it a youthful energy. It’s exactly this combination of history and vibrancy that makes Canterbury so special.

The city is best known for the impressive Canterbury Cathedral, one of England’s most important religious buildings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pilgrims have travelled here from around the world since the Middle Ages, making it one of the country’s most iconic landmarks. Even if you’re not particularly interested in religion, the cathedral is absolutely worth a visit.

But Canterbury offers far more than just its cathedral. The best way to explore the city is simply to wander through its historic centre. Stroll along the River Stour, get lost in charming alleyways and admire the many historic buildings that seem to appear around every corner.

Be sure not to miss The King’s Mile, a picturesque street lined with independent boutiques and cosy cafés. Other highlights include the medieval Westgate Towers, the ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey, and a boat trip along the River Stour, which offers a completely different perspective of the city.

What I personally loved about Canterbury is that you can easily spend an entire day there without it ever feeling overwhelming. It’s the kind of place where you can wander without a plan and constantly discover new photogenic corners.

Practical information:

• Location: Kent, approximately 30 minutes from Dover
• Recommended visit: At least half a day, ideally a full day
• Parking: Several paid car parks around the city centre
• Canterbury Cathedral: Paid admission; booking tickets in advance is recommended during busy periods
• River Stour boat tours: Depart from various locations in the city centre
• Getting around: The historic centre is largely pedestrianised and best explored on foot
• Nearby accommodation: Canterbury Cathedral Lodge, The Falstaff in Canterbury and Broome Park Hotel 

Canterbury makes a perfect first or last stop on a South England road trip. Thanks to its location close to Dover, it’s often overlooked, but that’s a real shame. The combination of history, charm and a welcoming atmosphere makes Canterbury one of my favourite cities in South England.

3 – Bodiam Castle

Of all the castles we visited during our South England road trip, Bodiam Castle was undoubtedly one of the most photogenic. The moment you see it appear on the horizon, surrounded by a wide moat and with its imposing towers reflected in the water, it feels as though you’ve stepped straight into a fairy tale. This is exactly the kind of castle you would expect to find in a historical novel or a movie.

Bodiam Castle was built in the 14th century to defend the region against a potential French invasion during the Hundred Years’ War. Although the castle is no longer completely intact, its impressive outer walls, towers and battlements still provide a fascinating glimpse into how magnificent it once was.

What makes Bodiam Castle so special is that you don’t just admire it from the outside. Visitors can wander through the ruins, climb the ancient staircases and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Be sure to take the time to walk all the way around the moat first. From every angle, you’ll get a different perspective of the castle and quickly understand why it is one of the most photographed castles in England.

What surprised me most was how peaceful and rural the setting feels. Nestled in the green countryside of East Sussex, the castle makes a perfect stop on a South England road trip. Even if castles aren’t usually your thing, Bodiam Castle is worth visiting for the atmosphere alone.

Practical information:

• Location: East Sussex, approximately 1 hour from Canterbury
• Admission: Paid entry, managed by the National Trust
• Parking: Large car park available at the visitor centre
• Recommended visit: 1 to 2 hours
• Facilities: Visitor centre, shop, toilets and café
• Tip: Walk all the way around the moat for the best views and photos of the castle
• Nearby accommodation: See the accommodation options in Rye below

Bodiam Castle may not be the largest or most famous castle in England, but for me it was certainly one of the most atmospheric. The combination of the moat, the towers and the surrounding countryside creates a setting that stays with you long after your visit.

4 – Rye

If there’s one village you shouldn’t miss during a South England road trip, it’s Rye. This charming historic town in East Sussex feels as though time has stood still. With its cobbled streets, crooked half-timbered houses, cosy tearooms and colourful façades, Rye was without a doubt one of the most photogenic places we visited during our journey.

Rye was once located directly on the coast and served as an important harbour town. Due to changes in the coastline, the sea now lies further away, but the town’s rich maritime history is still visible everywhere. Wander through its narrow streets and you’ll discover historic buildings, centuries-old inns and hidden corners that seem to have been lifted straight from a storybook.

The most famous street in Rye is undoubtedly Mermaid Street. With its cobblestones, centuries-old houses and timeless character, it is probably one of the most photographed streets in all of England. Be sure to take your time here, as every corner seems to reveal yet another picture-perfect view.

Beyond Mermaid Street, St Mary’s Church, the historic Ypres Tower, and the many independent boutiques, art galleries and cafés are all worth exploring. If you enjoy panoramic views, climb the church tower for a stunning perspective over Rye’s red rooftops and the surrounding countryside.

What I loved most about Rye is that it doesn’t feel like a town created solely for tourists. Despite its popularity, it has managed to retain its authentic character. It’s the kind of place where you can wander aimlessly, pop into a few shops and settle down somewhere for a cup of tea and a slice of cake.

Practical information

• Location: East Sussex, approximately 20 minutes from Bodiam Castle
• Recommended visit: Half a day, although it’s easy to stay much longer
• Parking: Several paid car parks just outside the historic centre
• Don’t miss: Mermaid Street, St Mary’s Church, Ypres Tower and the charming shopping streets
• Tip: Visit Rye early in the morning or later in the evening if you want to photograph Mermaid Street without the crowds
• Nearby accommodation: Jeakes House, The House with Two Front Doors and Mermaid Inn 

Rye was one of the biggest surprises of our South England road trip. It’s exactly the kind of place road trips are made for: charming, authentic and full of character. The sort of town where you end up staying much longer than originally planned.

5 – Seven Sisters

The Seven Sisters are without a doubt one of the most impressive natural attractions in South England. This series of seven rolling chalk cliffs along the coast of East Sussex forms one of the most spectacular landscapes in the country. Unlike the White Cliffs of Dover, the Seven Sisters remain completely unspoilt, giving them a much wilder and more natural feel.

What makes this place so special is the combination of sweeping green hills, dramatic cliffs and endless sea views. It’s one of those destinations where photos never quite capture how breathtaking the scenery really is. The further you walk, the more spectacular the views seem to become.

One of the most popular starting points is Birling Gap, where several coastal walking trails begin. You can opt for a short walk to a few viewpoints or tackle a longer hike along the cliffs towards Beachy Head. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the coastline at every turn.

What made this visit even more memorable for us was an unexpected surprise. We were lucky enough to find that several of the historic cottages at Birling Gap were exceptionally open to the public. Inside, there was a small art exhibition, and visitors could enjoy tea, coffee and homemade cakes. It felt like one of those wonderfully British experiences you never plan for, yet somehow becomes one of the highlights of the day. Sitting down after a walk with a slice of cake and a cup of tea while overlooking one of England’s most beautiful coastal landscapes? It doesn’t get much better than that.

Practical information:

• Location: East Sussex, between Eastbourne and Seaford
• Best starting point: Birling Gap
• Admission: Free
• Parking: Paid car park available at Birling Gap
• Walking routes: From short walks to full-day coastal hikes
• Don’t miss: The viewpoints at Birling Gap, the cliffs themselves and Beachy Head
• Tip: Wear sturdy walking shoes and always keep a safe distance from the cliff edge, as the chalk cliffs are constantly eroding
• Nearby accommodation: Tiger Inn _ Minnie, Saltmarsh Farmhouse and Wingrove House 

For me, the Seven Sisters were one of the absolute highlights of this road trip. The landscape is vast, unspoilt and incredibly photogenic from every angle. If I could recommend just one natural area to visit in South England, this would be right at the top of my list.

6 – Arundel Castle

Of all the castles we visited during our South England road trip, Arundel Castle felt the most like a true royal castle. Towering above the charming market town of Arundel, this impressive landmark dominates the surrounding landscape. With its imposing towers, beautifully maintained gardens and rich history, it looks as though it has been lifted straight from a movie set.

Arundel Castle was built by the Normans in the late 11th century and has been home to the Dukes of Norfolk for almost a thousand years. What makes the castle particularly special is that it is not only a historic attraction but also remains a private residence to this day. As a result, it feels surprisingly alive and well-preserved.

During your visit, you can explore a number of beautifully furnished rooms, including impressive libraries, grand reception rooms and historic halls filled with artwork, antique furniture and portraits. The gardens are equally worth exploring. Particularly in spring and summer, when everything is in bloom, they are considered among the most beautiful castle gardens in England.

What I personally loved most was the combination of the castle and the town of Arundel itself. After your visit, you can stroll straight into the charming town centre, where you’ll find picturesque streets, independent boutiques, traditional pubs and cosy tearooms. It’s the kind of destination where you can easily spend half a day or even a full day.

Be sure to make your way up to the top of the Norman Keep. From here, you’ll enjoy stunning views over the castle grounds, the surrounding countryside and the River Arun winding through the landscape.

Practical information:

• Location: Arundel, West Sussex
• Admission: Paid entry. Various ticket options are available for the castle, gardens or a combination of both
• Recommended visit: At least 3 to 4 hours if you want to explore both the castle and gardens
• Parking: Several paid car parks within walking distance of the town centre
• Don’t miss: The State Rooms, the Norman Keep, the gardens and Arundel’s historic centre
• Tip: Combine your castle visit with a walk through the town. For us, it completed the experience perfectly
• Nearby accommodation: The Swan, St Marys Gate Inn and House Arundel 

For me, Arundel Castle was one of the most beautiful castles in South England. Not only because of the impressive building itself, but also thanks to its stunning gardens and the welcoming atmosphere of the town surrounding it. It’s a place where history, architecture and classic English charm come together perfectly.

7 – Durdle Door

Some places appear on your feed for years, and you start to wonder whether they can possibly be as impressive in real life as they look in photos. Durdle Door was one of those places for me. And believe me: it absolutely lives up to the hype. This iconic natural limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast is one of England’s most famous landmarks and without a doubt one of the most beautiful natural wonders in South England.

Durdle Door was formed millions of years ago through erosion, as the sea gradually carved an opening through the limestone cliffs. The result is a spectacular stone arch overlooking the turquoise waters below. On a sunny day, the scenery feels almost un-English and is more reminiscent of a Mediterranean coastline.

What makes Durdle Door even more special is that it forms part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique geology and fossils. This coastline tells a story spanning millions of years of Earth’s history and is considered one of the most remarkable coastal landscapes in Europe.

From the car park, you’ll first walk to a viewpoint above the cliffs. The view alone is worth the visit. From there, a steep path leads down to the beach at the foot of Durdle Door. We chose to explore both the clifftop trail and the beach below, as each offers a completely different perspective. From above, you get the iconic postcard view, while from the beach you truly appreciate the scale of the rock formation.

Be sure to combine your visit with a walk to nearby Lulworth Cove, an almost perfectly circular bay that is also considered one of the highlights of the Jurassic Coast. The walk between the two offers breathtaking views throughout.

Practical information:

• Location: Dorset, along the Jurassic Coast
• Admission: Free
• Parking: Paid parking available at Durdle Door Holiday Park
• Recommended visit: 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much hiking you plan to do
• Don’t miss: The cliff-top viewpoint, Durdle Door beach and the walk to Lulworth Cove
• Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, as the path to the beach and coastal trails include some steep sections
• Nearby accommodation: Lulworth Lodge, Durdle Door Hotel and Limestone Hotel 

Durdle Door was one of the absolute highlights of our South England road trip. The combination of dramatic scenery, spectacular viewpoints and Dorset’s stunning coastline creates a place that stays with you long after your visit. Even if you’ve already seen hundreds of photos of Durdle Door, it’s still one of those destinations that simply has to be experienced in person.

8 – Exmoor National Park

Exmoor National Park was one of the places I was most excited to visit during our South England road trip. This vast natural area, located across the counties of Devon and Somerset, is known for its rugged moorlands, rolling hills, dramatic coastline and wild Exmoor ponies that roam freely throughout the park. It’s one of England’s lesser-known national parks, but that’s exactly what makes it so special.

Unfortunately, we weren’t particularly lucky with the weather. Rain, fog and strong winds meant that we couldn’t explore as much of the park as we had planned. A real shame, because Exmoor feels like the kind of destination where you could easily spend several days hiking, driving and discovering new places. Despite the challenging weather, we still caught a glimpse of the park’s beauty, and it’s already high on my list of places to revisit.

One of Exmoor’s highlights is its spectacular coastline, where towering cliffs overlook the Bristol Channel. The park is also home to countless walking trails, lush valleys and charming villages. The coastal village of Lynmouth was one of my favourite places we visited. Tucked away between steep cliffs, this picturesque village is often described as one of the most beautiful seaside villages in England. Together with Lynton, which sits higher up on the cliffs above, it creates a unique destination where nature, history and breathtaking views come together. I’d happily return to Exmoor for this area alone.

Practical information

• Location: Devon and Somerset, South West England
• Admission: Free
• Recommended visit: At least one day, ideally several days
• Don’t miss: Lynmouth, Lynton, the coastline around Porlock and the many walking trails throughout the park
• Tip: The weather can change quickly, so always bring a waterproof jacket and sturdy walking shoes
• Nearby accommodation: Luxury Bed And Breakfast at Bossington Hall in Exmoor , East Lyn House and The Porlock Weir Hotel 

Exmoor feels like one of those places you simply can’t fully appreciate in a few hours. Even with poor weather, it left a lasting impression on me. And that probably says everything you need to know.

9 – Cheddar Gorge

Of all the natural areas we visited during our South England road trip, Cheddar Gorge was perhaps one of the biggest surprises. This impressive limestone gorge is the largest in England and is surrounded by dramatic cliffs that rise more than 130 metres in places. The landscape feels completely different from many other parts of South England and at times even reminded me of mountainous regions elsewhere in Europe.

Cheddar Gorge was formed millions of years ago by underground rivers and meltwater from the Ice Age. Today, it is a paradise for hikers, nature lovers and photographers. One of the most popular activities is the Clifftop Walk, a scenic trail that follows the edge of the gorge and offers spectacular views over the rock formations, the surrounding countryside and the village of Cheddar below.

Besides its impressive scenery, Cheddar Gorge is also famous for its caves. The best-known are Gough’s Cave and Cox’s Cave, where visitors can admire stunning stalactite formations and vast underground chambers. The world-famous Cheddar cheese also originated here, and you’ll find several shops in the village where you can sample and purchase local varieties.

What I personally loved most about Cheddar Gorge is the combination of dramatic nature and village charm. You can enjoy a rewarding hike with incredible views and then relax in one of the cafés or tearooms in the village. It’s the kind of destination that offers far more than you might expect at first glance. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check out my detailed guide to the best things to do in Cheddar Gorge.

Practical information:

• Location: Somerset, approximately 45 minutes from Bristol
• Admission: The gorge and walking trails are free to access
• Parking: Several paid car parks in and around the village of Cheddar
• Don’t miss: The Clifftop Walk, Gough’s Cave, Cox’s Cave and the viewpoints along the cliff edge
• Recommended visit: 2 to 4 hours, depending on the walks and caves you choose to visit
• Tip: Wear sturdy footwear, as some trails are steep and uneven
• Nearby accommodation: Gordons Hotel, Gorge Nest,  Riverside Apartment and Pilgrims Rest with Annexe

Cheddar Gorge was one of those places I knew very little about before visiting, yet it ended up being one of the most enjoyable surprises of the entire road trip. The combination of spectacular scenery, beautiful walks and the welcoming atmosphere of the village makes it a stop that is absolutely worth your time.

The absolute highlight of any visit to Wells is undoubtedly the magnificent Wells Cathedral. Often regarded as one of the most beautiful cathedrals in England, it is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Even if you’ve already visited your fair share of churches and cathedrals during your travels, Wells Cathedral remains impressive. The famous scissor arches, the distinctive cross-shaped supports inside the cathedral, are particularly unique.

But Wells has much more to offer than its cathedral alone. One of the city’s most photogenic spots is undoubtedly Vicars’ Close. This picturesque street lined with beautifully preserved medieval houses is often described as the oldest continuously inhabited street in Europe. Walking through it feels like stepping back several centuries in time.

Be sure to take some time to explore the historic centre as well. Around the cathedral, you’ll find charming squares, independent shops, traditional pubs and cosy cafés. Thanks to Wells’ compact size, the best way to experience the city is simply by wandering around without a fixed plan. For more inspiration, be sure to check out my guide to the best things to do in Wells.

Practical information:

• Location: Somerset, approximately 20 minutes from Cheddar Gorge
• Recommended visit: Half a day to a full day
• Parking: Several paid car parks around the city centre
• Don’t miss: Wells Cathedral, Vicars’ Close and the historic market square
• Cathedral admission: Paid entry
• Tip: Visit Vicars’ Close early in the day if you want to photograph this beautiful street without too many visitors
• Nearby accommodation: The Swan Hotel, The Crown at Wells and The Ancient Gatehouse & Rugantino Restaurant

Wells was one of the most charming cities we visited in South England. It’s not large or bustling, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. A place where history, architecture and classic English charm come together perfectly.

11 – Stonehenge

There are few places in England that capture the imagination quite like Stonehenge. This mysterious stone circle set within the rolling countryside of Wiltshire is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites and had been on my bucket list for years. And although you’ve probably seen hundreds of photos of Stonehenge before, there’s still something special about finally seeing these ancient stones with your own eyes.

Stonehenge was built more than 4,500 years ago, yet no one knows with certainty why it was constructed. Over the centuries, countless theories have emerged, ranging from a religious temple and astronomical calendar to a burial ground or ceremonial site. It’s precisely this mystery that makes Stonehenge so fascinating. The more you read about it, the more questions seem to arise.

While the stone circle is, of course, the main attraction, a visit is also about the surrounding landscape. Stonehenge sits in the heart of Salisbury Plain, a vast area that has been inhabited and used by people for thousands of years. The visitor centre tells the story of the site through exhibitions, archaeological discoveries and reconstructed prehistoric dwellings.

What surprised me most was how compact Stonehenge actually is. In photographs, the monument often appears much larger than it is in reality. Yet this doesn’t diminish its impact in any way. Simply knowing that these stones have stood here for thousands of years makes the experience feel truly remarkable.

Would you like to visit Stonehenge without purchasing an admission ticket? You can. I’ve written a detailed guide explaining how to visit Stonehenge for free, including the best walking route to follow.

Practical information

• Location: Wiltshire, between London and Bath
• Admission: Paid entry online or via the visitor centre
• Parking: Included with an admission ticket
• Recommended visit: 2 to 3 hours
• Don’t miss: The stone circle, the visitor centre and the surrounding walking trails
• Tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially during the summer months
• Nearby accommodation: Rollestone Manor B&B and Restaurant, Cricket Field House and Stonehenge Cottages  

Stonehenge may be one of England’s most famous landmarks, but it remains a place that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. If only for the mystery and history that continue to surround these ancient stones.

12 – The Cotswolds

If there is one region that perfectly captures the essence of the traditional English countryside, it is the Cotswolds. With its rolling hills, winding country lanes, honey-coloured cottages and charming villages, this area feels as though it has been lifted straight from a fairy tale. Stretching across much of south-central England, the Cotswolds are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions in the country.

What makes the Cotswolds so special is that it’s not about one particular attraction. Instead, it’s the countless picturesque villages, historic market towns and stunning landscapes that together create the region’s unique charm. As you drive through the area, you’ll find yourself moving from one photogenic village to the next, surrounded by quintessential English scenery at every turn.

Of all the places we visited, Castle Combe and Bibury were my absolute favourites. Castle Combe is often described as one of the most beautiful villages in England, and the moment you arrive, it’s easy to understand why. With its old stone cottages, historic bridge and quiet, traffic-free streets, it feels as though time has stood still. Bibury, on the other hand, has a charm all its own. Its most famous landmark, Arlington Row, a row of historic weavers’ cottages beside the river, is one of the most iconic sights in the Cotswolds.

But villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter and Painswick are equally worth visiting. One of the best things about the Cotswolds is that you don’t need a strict itinerary. Simply drive around, stop wherever it looks beautiful and enjoy the atmosphere.

Because there is so much to see, I’ve also created a detailed 3-day Cotswolds itinerary as well as a guide to the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds. Perfect if you’re planning your own road trip through this stunning region.

Practical information:

• Location: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and surrounding areas
• Recommended visit: At least 2 to 3 days
• Best way to explore: By car
• Don’t miss: Castle Combe, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold and Lower Slaughter
• Tip: Visit some of the villages early in the morning or around sunset to avoid the busiest crowds
• Nearby accommodation: See my guide to 15 charming B&Bs in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds were one of the absolute highlights of my time in South England. It’s the kind of place where you constantly find yourself saying, “Just one more village,” only to realise hours later that you’re still happily exploring. A destination I will undoubtedly return to one day.

13 – Bath 

Of all the cities we visited during our South England road trip, Bath was without a doubt one of my favourites. This elegant city in Somerset is known for its beautiful Georgian architecture, rich history and relaxed atmosphere. The moment you start wandering through its streets, it becomes clear why Bath has earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Everywhere you look, you’ll find impressive honey-coloured buildings, grand squares and charming streets full of character.

Bath’s history stretches back more than 2,000 years. The city owes its name and fame to the natural hot springs that were already being used by the Romans centuries ago. The undisputed highlight of any visit is the remarkable Roman Baths. This exceptionally well-preserved Roman bathing complex offers a fascinating glimpse into life nearly two millennia ago.

But Bath has much more to offer than its Roman heritage alone. Be sure to stroll past the iconic Royal Crescent, a sweeping crescent of elegant townhouses that ranks among England’s most famous architectural landmarks. Other highlights include The Circus, Pulteney Bridge and the impressive Bath Abbey.

What I personally loved most about Bath is how compact the city feels. The main attractions are all within walking distance of one another, making it easy to explore at your own pace. Along the way, you’ll also discover plenty of cosy cafés, independent boutiques and excellent restaurants where you can take a break and soak up the atmosphere.

Because there is so much to see, I’ve also written a detailed guide to the perfect day trip to Bath, featuring my favourite walking route, top attractions and practical travel tips.

Practical information:

• Location: Somerset, approximately 45 minutes from Bristol
• Recommended visit: Perfect as a day trip
• Parking: Several paid car parks on the edge of the city centre
• Don’t miss: Roman Baths, Royal Crescent, The Circus, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey
• Admission: Several attractions require an entrance fee
• Tip: Explore Bath on foot as much as possible to discover its hidden streets and corners
• Nearby accommodation: Bathen House Boutique Hotel, Harington’s Boutique Hotel and The Bird

Bath completely won me over from the moment I arrived. Its combination of history, architecture and atmosphere makes it, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful cities in South England and a destination you absolutely shouldn’t miss on your road trip.

South England completely exceeded my expectations. From dramatic coastal landscapes and historic cities to charming villages and vast natural parks, this region has so much to offer. Even during our ten-day road trip, we barely scratched the surface of everything there is to see.

I hope this guide to the most beautiful places in South England helps you plan your own adventure. And trust me—once you’ve experienced this region for yourself, you’ll understand exactly why I’m already looking forward to returning. Happy exploring!

Want to read more about England?

• 10 England travel tips you need to know before you go
• How to visit Stonehenge for free?
• 15 charming Bed and breakfasts in the Cotswolds
• Top things to do in Wells, Somerset
• The ultimate Cotswolds itinerary: 3 days of charming villages & scenic views
• 15 best Cotswolds towns you must visit
• One day in Bath: The best things to see and do
• Top things to do Cheddar Gorge: Explore nature’s dramatic playground

Thanks for reading. 

Yours truly,  

Sarah 

Would you like to plan an unforgettable trip? Then be sure to check out useful websites.