“England’s green and pleasant land” offers a wealth of historical, cultural and fascinating attractions. With a rich history stretching over the centuries visitors are spoilt for choice in selecting interesting and beautiful places to visit. The land of Shakespeare, the Brontes, and Wordsworth is as timeless today as it was in their day and a visit to the places associated with such great literary names guarantees a wonderful trip.
Stratford-upon-Avon
Birthplace of the great bard and home of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon is a wonderful historic town on the banks of the River Avon. Visit Shakespeare’s home and wander through the streets steeped in history, before taking in a performance at the theatre.
Stratford offers a great selection of places for the whole family to enjoy, with the Butterfly Park and waxwork museum well worth a visit. Other attractions within the local environ, for those staying for more than a day, include Warwick Castle and Charlecote Manor.
Bronte Country
The wild and untamed land of Heathcliff can be discovered on the moors of Yorkshire. A visit to Haworth, home of the Bronte sisters, offers a trip with a difference and the opportunity to visit the place which inspired such literary masterpieces as Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre. The Bronte Parsonage Museum is open to visitors, whilst the steep cobbled streets of Haworth itself host unique and attractive shops. Another local attraction to enjoy is Pendle Witch Country.
The English Lake District
Renowned for its spectacular beauty the Lake District boasts lakes, tarns, fells and crags which appeal to walkers and dreamers. Small country towns and villages offer a traditional charm, whilst visitors can choose to enjoy the splendid isolation that it is still possible to find or enjoy the bustle of popular spors such as Windermere and Ambleside.
No visit to the Lakes would be complete without wandering in the footsteps of William Wordsworth. Historical Wordsworth homes at Rydal Mount and Grasmere are definitely worth a visit, with springtime offering the extra draw of Wordsworth’s daffodils.
York
The historical city of York is a must see place to visit. Steeped in history this lovely city is easy to traverse on foot with all the major attractions being in close proximity. The Shambles is a timeless cobbled street full of unusual shops and crammed with character, the city walls can be strolled along and evenings offer exciting ghost tours. Not to be missed is the York Castle Museum which houses the actual prison where the famous highwayman Dick Turpin spent his last days. The museum contains its very own Victorian street, well worth an amble.
London
No visit to England would be complete with a visit to the nation’s capital city, offering a plethora of attractions traversing the ages, right up to the modern draw of the London Eye. London offers the most traditional of attractions ranging from palaces, museums and art galleries, to such famous sights as the Changing of the Guard and the Crown Jewels.
England has so many great places to visit beyond those mentioned here, but to truly do justice to these great destinations a weekend break is recommended to enjoy the many attractions at leisure.