The Best English Countryside: 14 beautiful places

The countryside in Britain is ravishingly beautiful and, where ever you are on this small island, it’s always near at hand. Here are the best places to visit in the England countryside that will captivate you: whether you’re planning a day trip from London or a longer stay.

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While Big Ben and Buckingham Palace draw millions to London each year, England’s real magic lies in its vast stretches of countryside, where ancient landscapes tell stories that span millennia and each region paints its own distinct picture of rural life.

An astonishing 90% of England has not been built on. That’s a lot of countryside to visit! So here’s my pick of where to go, what to see and how to get there from London.

What to expect in the England countryside?

Thanks to variations in geology, climate and patterns of agriculture the countryside of Great Britain is a patchwork of remarkably different landscapes. And good public transport links mean you can get a taste of several different regions in just a few days.

One morning you could wake up to a view of softly folding hills, swathed in green, dotted with grazing sheep. The next you might be walking through a granite village, or admiring brightly-flowered gardens and chocolate box cottages. You could be roaming across broad, empty beaches or walking on the ramparts of a ruined castle.

From velvety parkland to craggy cliffs where seagulls swoop and waves crash, the countryside of England has something for everyone.

My Favourite Countryside in the UK

I was born in Yorkshire, close to the wild moors of Brontë country. But I’ve lived in London all my adult life. And over the years my family and I have explored the length and breadth of the English countryside. It’s impossible to choose just one favourite region.

So this post is about the unspoilt and unforgettable places in England’s countryside that I’d recommend to any visitor. I’ve picked them for their mix of beauty and things to do. They’re split into the areas you can reach on a day trip from London and those that warrant a longer stay.

How to get around the English Countryside

• By train It’s very easy to plan a getaway to the English countryside by train from London or any of our major cities. Rural Britain is always just on the doorstep! Britain’s railway system is excellent all things considered, and can whisk you up and down the country in just a few hours.
• However, the prettiest countryside locations aren’t close to major railway stations. You’ll need local trains, buses and taxis – which can all take time. There are other options:
• Look for local tour companies who will pick you up from a designated train station, like Moreton-in-the-Marsh in the Cotswolds or Oxenholme in the Lake District.
• Hire a car locally This removes the hassle of driving long distance. However you need to be confident of navigating and driving around narrow country lanes and parking in crowded villages, especially in peak season. If you do plan to hire a car it would make sense to stay over for a night or two.
• Take an organised tour from a major city Day trips allow you to see more sights with less hassle. You don’t need to plan an itinerary or navigate rural roads. As a bonus, from the elevated seats of a coach you’ll get better views of the landscapes than you would in a car. And you’ll benefit from the local knowledge of the guide too.
• Be aware The most well-known England countryside locations are super-popular. Be prepared for crowds during peak season, especially in hot spots like the Cotswolds and the Lake District.

Beautiful English Countryside within reach of London

The Cotswolds

• Driving time from London to Cotswolds approx 2 hrs
• London to Moreton in Marsh is 1 hr 25 mins by train

The Cotswolds is one of England’s most famous rural areas, with its picturesque villages of honey-coloured stone and green rolling hills, dotted with grazing sheep. This stunning region features views and villages that capture the essence of traditional British country life.

It’s all easily accessible from London making it ideal for a day trip. And perfect too for romantic getaways. Predictably this means the Cotswolds gets a lot of visitors year round.

Each season brings its own character to the Cotswolds. You can spot lambs in the fields in springtime, summer wild flowers, autumn colours in the woodlands, or winter frost highlighting the local golden stone. So it’s worth going out of peak season to enjoy a taste of village life with fewer other visitors.

Travelling along the country roads you’ll catch pretty views across green valleys and gentle hills. Follow footpaths winding through meadows and woodland and you’ll see rural landscapes that date back hundreds of years.

There’s rich history in the Cotswolds. The beautiful estate of Blenheim Palace where Sir Winston Churchill was born, lies to the east near Oxford. Whilst another UNESCO World Heritage site, the enigmatic standing stones of Stonehenge, is to the south in Wiltshire.

Pretty villages in the Cotswolds

Burford A traditional market town that’s often called the gateway to the Cotswolds. It has a long tradition of wool production and some fine old merchants’ houses on the beautiful high street.

Bibury This small village is famous for Arlington Row, a series of 14th-century weavers’ cottages that are still lived in today.

Castle Combe Often called one of England’s prettiest villages thanks to its Instagram-famous little stone bridge, traditional streets and medieval market cross.

Bourton-on-the-Water Multiple low bridges cross the River Windrush that flows through the centre of the village, earning it the nickname ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’.

Lacock This medieval Wiltshire village and its Abbey has appeared in Harry Potter films and is a much-loved setting for British period TV shows.

Book this day tour to the Cotswolds

See the beautiful Cotswold countryside and its villages in a single day. I took this tour in November and thoroughly recommend it as a fun and comprehensive introduction to the Cotswolds. Book the Cotswolds Villages tour with lunch

Hampshire: the New Forest

• Driving time from London to Brockenhurst: approx 2 hrs
• London Waterloo to Brockenhurst is 1 hr 26 mins by train

Ancient woods, Forestry Commission plantations and open heathland make up the distinctive landscape of the New Forest, where ponies roam freely alongside cattle, deer and even pigs. Back in 1079 it was William the Conquer’s ‘new hunting forest’, nowadays this National Park is popular for more peaceful pastimes like walking, picnicking, camping, cycling and horse riding.

I’ve spent many weekends and holidays in the New Forest and recommend it for its mix of outdoor activities and country life that’s within easy reach of London.

Spend a day soaking up the unique New Forest way of life in Brockenhurst where cars give way to the semi-wild ponies that wander the streets and graze on the village green. You’ll find country inns, tea rooms and village shops to browse, or hire a bike and cycle the beautiful Rhinefield route.

South of the Forest, it’s just 10 minutes by car to seaside Lymington where you can explore the cobbled streets and discover clifftop walks and sandy beaches along the coast.

Surrey Hills

• Driving time from London to Box Hill approx 1 hr 15 mins
• London Waterloo to Box Hill is 45 mins by train

The Surrey Hills, southwest of London, is a designated area of outstanding natural beauty. Think chalk downs, dense woodland and open hilltops with sweeping views across the surrounding countryside.

Box Hill With steep chalk slopes and far-reaching vistas of the Weald, Box Hill is popular with cyclists, walkers and nature lovers alike.

Leith Hill The highest point in southeast England, topped by an 18th-century Gothic tower. On clear days, visitors can spot London’s skyline from the tower’s viewing platform. The surrounding woodland is a prime spot for wildlife watching.

Dorking is a Georgian market town in the heart of the Surrey Hills. Local vineyards dot the chalky slopes, producing English sparkling wines that rival their French counterparts.

Shere and Abinger Hammer are Surrey villages that date from medieval times. You’ll find timber-framed buildings and village greens that host summer Sunday cricket matches. Pubs are cosy and traditional, while footpaths ramble through fields and ancient woodlands. See if you can spot where Hollywood movie The Holiday was filmed!

South Downs

• Driving time from London to Lewes: approx 2 hrs
• London Clapham Junction to Lewes is 1 hour by train

Stretching across the coastal counties of south east England, the South Downs National Park showcases striking chalk hills, dramatic cliffs and traditional English villages.

Hikers can stride out across the rolling grasslands of the South Downs Way, with sweeping views of the countryside and coast. Or head to the south coast path from Seaford to Beachy Head for one of the most iconic views in southern England. Here are the chalk-white cliffs known as the Seven Sisters, overlooking the English Channel.

You can visit the mysterious Long Man of Wilmington, a giant figure cut into the chalky hillside near Alfriston in East Sussex. Then explore charming villages with their medieval character still intact, like Alfriston itself or Amberley in West Sussex which is renowned for its many thatched cottages.

Book this day tour to the South Downs and coast

This tour from London smoothes over transport logistics. Your first leg of the journey is by train to Brighton, followed by a minibus tour of the beautiful villages of Sussex. And your guide will take you to the best vantage points to see and photograph the iconic Seven Sisters white cliffs. Book the South Downs and Seven Sisters white cliff guided tour

Countryside on the edge of London

If you’re short of time you can get a taste of the English countryside within an hour of London.

Windsor The town of Windsor lies close to Heathrow airport and is home to Windsor castle and its Great Park. Visit the Long Walk to experience a traditional British country estate, complete with deer and ancient oak trees. Book a private transfer between London and Windsor.

Richmond Park and Wimbledon Common Richmond is one of London’s Royal Parks and nature reserves. You’ll see wild deer roaming here amongst the woods and grasslands. Wimbledon Common stretches over 1000 unfenced acres with woodland, ponds and heaths as well as golf courses.

Southern England Countryside

These counties have some of the most beautiful coastline and villages in England. You really need to stay for a few days to appreciate the treasures of the South of England countryside.

Dorset

• Driving time from London to Wareham: approx 3 hrs
• London Waterloo to Wareham by train: 2hrs 20 mins

The southern edge of the county of Dorset is famous for its dramatic Jurassic Coast where limestone cliffs tower over pebbled beaches and hidden coves. In the 1800s, these ancient rocks revealed important fossil finds that gave the coastline its name and shed new light on prehistoric life.

Inland, the beautiful Dorset countryside shifts between wide valleys and gentle hills, creating a patchwork of farmland, meadows, and woodland. Chalk downs are dotted with ancient hill forts and dramatic white horses carved into the hillsides.

Must-see sights in Dorset

Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door The perfect horseshoe-shaped bay and natural limestone arch are striking landmarks on the Dorset coastline.

Corfe Castle Romantic ruins rising above the Purbeck Hills, hint at tales of medieval power struggles. A traditional village clusters around the castle’s base, drawing visitors year-round. Steam trains run through the valley, offering scenic rides through the countryside.

Gold Hill This ancient, steeply-cobbled street in the little town of Shaftesbury is one of the most nostalgic of traditional English views. It was made famous by a 1970s TV ad for Hovis bread.

Historic market towns Soak up Dorset’s countryside and coastline and dip into its picturesque seaside towns. Bridport is a magnet for antique hunters and food lovers – try the famous Dorset Blue Vinney cheese. Nearby West Bay‘s golden cliffs provide a stunning backdrop for coastal walks whilst Lyme Regis has a pretty harbour, beaches and guided fossil hunting tours.

Swanage Visit for its traditional seaside style, nearby Brownsea Island nature reserve and Old Harry Rocks.

Devon

• Driving time from London to Totnes: approx 4 hrs
• London Paddington to Totnes is 2 hrs 34 mins by train

When my children were young Devon was our favourite family summer staycation. We headed here for quintessentially English sandy beaches, wild clifftop walks, unspoilt moorland and quaint villages. Not forgetting the clotted cream teas and harbour-fresh fish and chips!

North Devon vs South Devon

Although all in the same county, Devon’s landscape – and even to an extent its weather – varies from north to south. The north Devon coast features dramatic cliffs, wide beaches and big swells from the Atlantic that make it a surfers’ playground.

To the south the more sheltered coastline offers peaceful bays, seaside towns with sandy beaches and red sandstone clifftop walks. Sailors flock to the pretty harbour of Salcombe, while palm trees flourish in the gentle climate of Torquay.

Inland, narrow lanes wind between little market towns like Totnes and Tavistock. On Dartmoor national park its hardy ponies roam free on wild moorland studded with rocky tors. To the north, Exmoor’s heather-covered hills drop sharply to the sea. Devon is a wonderful county to enjoy traditional English countryside and lots of seaside fun.

Cornwall

• Driving time from London to Truro: approx 5 hrs
• London Paddington to Truro is 4 hrs 20 mins by train

The county of Cornwall lies at the south-westerly tip of England, stretching into the Atlantic. Its rugged coastline of hidden coves and wide sandy beaches is backed by high cliffs falling sharply to the sea, with fishing villages nestling into natural harbours.

The South West Coast Path runs around Cornwall’s entire coastline. As well as stunning ocean views you’ll see the traces of Cornwall’s tin mining past in the remains of old engine houses like Wheal Coates near St Agnes.

Inland, the beautiful scenery continues, with quintessential English countryside views. A patchwork of fields mark centuries of farming. Nearby, the austere moorland of Bodmin provides open spaces for walking and riding.

The mild Cornish climate supports subtropical plants, giving gardens like The Lost Gardens of Heligan their unique character. The Eden Project’s bubble-shaped biomes are here too, creating artificial climate zones in which plants thrive from around the world.

Pretty villages in Cornwall

Many Cornish villages have retained a very traditional feel. Narrow streets wind between granite walls down to little harbours where wooden boats bob at the quayside. Whitewashed fishermen’s cottages gaze out to sea, hydrangeas bloom by doorsteps and wild flowers flutter in the hedgerows. Low-beamed village pubs, of course, serve local ales.

St Ives attracts artists with its special quality of light and blue-green waters. Nowadays its streets house art galleries and craft shops, while the beaches draw surfers as well as sunbathers.

Port Isaac and Padstow These fishing villages on the north Cornwall coast are keeping traditions alive, with working harbours and seafood restaurants serving fresh catches. Take a boat trip to spot seals and dolphins.

Mousehole Like many Cornish villages Mousehole, pronounced Mowzul, was not built for cars. And when I last visited I was only partly relieved to park up on the edge of the quay. Because I still had to get our big car out again! But this village and its harbour are quite magical and worth a visit. Park outside and walk in!

Porthcurno and the Minack theatre Press on to the southern most edge of Cornwall to see truly one of England’s most spectacular beaches. Porthcurno matches golden sand with turquoise sea, and it’s best viewed from the unique clifftop open-air Minack theatre. Glorious all round – I love it!

Book this Devon and Cornwall 5 Day Tour from London

Northern England Countryside

Some of the most awe-inspiring England countryside and fascinating historic sites lie in the north of England. It may have a rather chillier and wetter climate than the southern counties. But it makes up for this with majestic landscapes and dramatic coastlines.

From London determined travellers could visit the Lake District or the city of York in a day trip. But the north of England countryside merit a longer stay.

The Lake District

• Driving time from London to Windermere approx 5 hrs
• London Euston to Oxenholme is 2 hrs 40 mins by train

The Lake District, in northwest England, captivates visitors with its mix of mountains, valleys and lakes. This carefully protected region, just 30 miles wide, is a wonderful place to experience traditional rural life and discover some of Britain’s most striking views. I was there again last summer and it really does feel a million miles from London.

The Lake District is all about the great outdoors. Walking and cycle routes wind through the fells, from gentle lakeside paths to challenging mountain trails. Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, draws hikers looking for a real mountain experience. While the paths around Lake Windermere and Derwentwater offer more relaxed options for taking in the scenery.

The weather changes quickly in the Lakes, creating dramatic light conditions that photographers love. Clear days reveal far-reaching views while cloudy skies turn the mountain scenery moody.

The many lakes add an extra dimension. You can enjoy the landscapes from water level on a kayaking or sailing trip. Or hop onto a traditional wooden launch for a guided tour across one of the larger stretches of water like Windermere.

Pretty villages in the Lake District

Small villages dot the valleys, each with its own character. While you’re here stop off at a tea room to sample Grasmere gingerbread or sticky toffee pudding.

Grasmere Once home to poet William Wordsworth you can still visit his Dove cottage here.

Ambleside Poised at the head of Lake Windermere, this lively village serves as a great base for walks into the surrounding hills.

Hawkshead Find cobbled streets, a handsome medieval church with square bell tower and William Wordsworth’s old grammar school. Nearby in Sawrey is Hill Top, the farmhouse once owned by Beatrix Potter where local Herdwick sheep still graze.

Book a tour to see the Lake District in a Day including cream tea and lake cruise.

Glimpse the wonders of the Lakes in a day. Hop on the train at Euston and a local guide will meet you at Oxenholme for a tour of the highlights. Book the Lake District Tour with Cream Tea and Cruise

Yorkshire

• Driving time from London to York approx 4 hrs 20 mins
• London to York is 2 hours by train

In the north of England, Yorkshire is the largest county of Britain and its vast landscapes are famed for their beauty. Not for nothing do the locals call it ‘God’s own country’.

Yorkshire has two national parks. The Yorkshire Dales features limestone valleys, majestic hills and waterfalls, whilst the North York Moors spread across acres of purple heather moorland. The Peak District also stretches into southern Yorkshire, adding rocky outcrops to the mix.

Walkers, hikers and climbers from around the world come to explore Yorkshire’s natural beauty. But there’s lots more for visitors too. History buffs will enjoy the quaint villages, ruined abbeys, vintage steam trains and stately homes, all telling stories of Yorkshire’s rich cultural heritage.

Must-sees in Yorkshire

The Yorkshire Dales national park Yorkshire’s valleys are called dales, the hills and mountains in between are ‘fells’. Together they form a glorious natural landscape where dry stone walls criss-cross green slopes that shelter villages weathered by time and elements.

Visit Ingleborough, one of the dramatic Three Peaks and see the awe-inspiring Ingleborough Cave. Head to the enchanting Janet’s Foss waterfall and walk to Malham Cove the distinctive limestone cliff that features in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

North York Moors national park A tranquil place where old trade routes cross heather-covered hills between villages. There’s a dramatic north Yorkshire heritage coastline too with fishing villages like Robin Hood’s Bay and Staithes.

West Yorkshire Don’t forget the west of Yorkshire, once the home of the Brontë sisters. Visit their parsonage in Haworth, see the moors which inspired Wuthering Heights and take a ride on a steam train on the Keighley and Worth Valley heritage railway.

York A wonderful historic city with a medieval heart. It’s easy to reach by train from London, a great place to stay for a night or two and a gateway for tours to Yorkshire’s national parks.

🔔 Check out these hotels for a great stay in the city of York. Top tip: book well in advance!

Book a tour of the countryside when you stay in York

Yorkshire Dales tour from York Travel through the beautiful Dales countryside seeing towns and villages, winding passes and medieval Bolton castle.

Book the North York Moors and Whitby tour from York See ancient moorland, English villages and spend some time at the seaside on this all-day tour.

Peak District

• Driving time from London to Derby approx 2 hrs 45 mins
• London St Pancras to Derby 2 hrs by train

The magnificent Peak District national park has a striking mix of moorland, valleys, and rugged peaks making it a top choice for outdoor activities.

The park’s rocky outcrops and steep cliffs attract rock climbers of all skill levels. Whilst trails across quiet valley floors and windswept hilltops offer routes for both casual walkers and serious hikers. And photographers are drawn here to capture the dramatic weather patterns over the moors, morning mist in the valleys and evening sun on the peaks.

But that’s not all the Peak District has to offer. From traditional stone villages to glorious stately homes, cosy inns and medieval manor houses, there’s plenty of English history to explore here. Not to mention the famous Bakewell pudding, named after the pretty market town!

Chatsworth House, deep in the Peak District, is a prime example of an England countryside estate. The impressive stately home has extensive grounds nestled in woodland and gardens designed by Capability Brown. It’s thought that Jane Austen used it as a model for Mr Darcy’s Pemberley in Pride and Prejudice.

Please note that all visitor information here is for guidance only. Please check the relevant websites for the most up to date information eg. accommodation details, tickets, entrance requirements, opening times etc.

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