England Travel Guide
From London’s world-class museums to the charming villages of the Cotswolds, England is a place where history and modern life overlap at every turn. Its regions offer something for every interest, whether it’s literary heritage, countryside walks, or vibrant city nightlife.
This travel guide highlights the best of England, from what to expect, how to get around, and the top experiences to include on your itinerary.
Destinations
London
What to Expect in England
Weather
England has a temperate climate with mild temperatures and consistent rainfall across the year. Coastal regions are windier, while London and the southeast tend to be slightly warmer.
Summers are moderate, averaging 65–75°F (18–24°C), with warmer days reaching the low 80s°F (27–28°C). Spring and autumn bring more variable weather, with sunshine, showers, and cooler breezes often within the same day.
Winters are cool and damp, with temperatures typically between 35–45°F (2–7°C) and occasional frost or light snow, mostly in northern and higher elevation areas.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September) are widely considered the best times to visit England, offering pleasant temperatures, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds compared to peak summer.
Summer is high season, especially in London and popular countryside destinations like the Cotswolds, the Lake District, and Cornwall. Winter is quieter and atmospheric, with festive markets, cozy pubs, and lower travel costs outside the holiday period.
Language
English is the official language of England.
Visitors will find it easy to navigate daily interactions, although regional accents vary across the country, from London and the southeast to northern cities like Manchester, Leeds, and Newcastle. Learning a few polite phrases or understanding common local expressions can enhance conversations, especially in smaller towns.
Currency
England uses the British pound sterling (GBP £). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are standard, particularly in cities and on public transport.
Cash is less necessary than in the past, though it can still be useful in small villages, markets, or independent shops. ATMs are easy to find throughout the country.
Getting There
England is well connected globally and regionally. London Heathrow and London Gatwick are the largest international airports, while Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, and Leeds Bradford offer additional European and long haul routes.
Travelers within Europe can arrive via high speed rail on the Eurostar, which connects Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam directly to London St Pancras.
Ferries also link England with France, the Netherlands, and Ireland. Well maintained motorways and extensive rail lines make travel throughout the country easy, though some may opt for a rental car for maximum flexibility.
How to Get Around England
Top Experiences in England
LATEST POSTS ABOUT ENGLAND
WHAT TO PACK FOR ENGLAND
England FAQ
-
Planning 7 to 10 days allows time for London and one additional destination such as Bath, Oxford, or the Cotswolds. With more time, you can add a second region, like the Lake District, without rushing.
-
London works well as a base for day trips to places like Windsor, Oxford, Cambridge, and Bath. If you want to explore farther regions such as the Cotswolds, Cornwall, or the Lake District, staying overnight is more practical and saves travel time.
-
Trains are the fastest way to move between major cities and popular day-trip destinations, while buses provide access to smaller towns in rural areas. A rental car is useful when exploring the countryside, where public transport is limited.
“I don’t desire to change anything in England except the weather.“
Oscar Wilde