This article aims to uncover some of the less well known destinations that offer a more traditional and authentic taste of England.
Most tourists, of course, head to London, and then venture out to places such as Cambridge, Brighton, and Stratford Upon Avon, yet you can have a more rich and authentic experience by seeing the real England. If you’re planning a lot of travel be sure to stop off at one of the many Lush shops, lush.com in order to pick up some handmade organic bath bombs… this international brand originated in a small shop in Bournemouth, where it is still based, today.
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Here’s our list of places to visit outside of London that will uncover the “real England”.
YORK – Just two hours by train from London, you’ll be transported to a vibrant yet chocolate box city that could be likened to Bruges in Belgium. What’s more, you’ll have easy access to a rugged coastline and unspoilt moorland just a short drive or train ride from York itself.
CORNWALL – Cornwall, is located at the Southernmost tip of England and is a mecca for family camping holidays, surfers, and artists. In a couple of days, you can explore the picture postcard location of St Ives with a beautiful harbour and a number of art galleries including Tate St Ives. Then, you can sample some of the world’s leading fish and chips from celebrity chef, Rick Stein, based in Padstow and burn off the calories by taking a surf lesson on world famous Fistral Beach in Newquay.
LANCASTER – Lancaster is one of England’s most delightful Heritage Cities. The word city is somewhat of a misnomer, as in, you can walk through the town centre within about ten minutes, but this quaint set-up only adds to its charm. Lancaster is steeped in history, boasting one of the oldest and most haunted castles in England, which until recently, was a functioning prison.
NEWCASTLE – Newcastle is a modern vibrant city where everybody is warm, friendly and relatively cheerful – at least, until 2am when the nightclubs close. Newcastle is a great place to experience a vibrant nightlife scene that has a very down to earth and “say it as it is” feel to it.
HARROGATE – Harrogate is a charming Victorian spa town nestled in the heart of a medieval district known for its outstanding natural beauty. Just ten minutes on the train from Harrogate is Knaresborough which has a beautiful riverside walk.
BIRMINGHAM – Birmingham is a multicultural city that offers something for everyone. It’s home to Cadbury World, Edgbaston Cricket Ground, and the UK’s leading Indian restaurants. Indeed, the famous ‘balti’ dish was created in Birmingham.
THE LAKE DISTRICT – Unfortunately, it does get quite wet up there, but a few days spent nestled next to a log fire in a cosy pub after a hearty steak and ale pie, with fellow ramblers and their dogs is definitely worth the visit.
In summary, there are plenty of places to go beyond the well trodden tourist path. Hopefully, these seven ideas will encourage you to discover some lesser known places.