England's best places to visit in 2023

Make 2023 the year to explore our beautiful country of England. Here are 15 of our favourite places to visit this year.


Polperro

Polperro is a small fishing village located on the south coast of Cornwall, England. It is famous for its narrow, winding streets, historic harbour, and traditional thatched cottages. The village has a rich maritime history and was once a thriving center for the pilchard fishing industry. Today, the harbour is home to a small fleet of fishing boats, as well as a number of pleasure boats. Polperro is surrounded by beautiful countryside and cliffs, making it a popular destination for walkers and nature lovers. The village is also home to several museums, including the Polperro Heritage Museum, which tells the story of the village's history and the local fishing industry.




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The Brisley Bell, Norfolk

In a rural village on the fringes of a conservation area, The Bell (affectionately known as The Brisley Bell) really hits the mark when it  comes to location, and its interiors are just as impressive. Quirky but not gaudy, stylish but not pretentious, the design plays to the  strengths of the beautiful 17th-century building.

Broadway

Broadway has one of the most elegant and historic high streets in the Cotswolds and is home to an array of art galleries, interiors shops and high-end boutiques. Victorian artists such as William Morris and John Singer Sargent were drawn to Broadway with its rose and wisteria-embellished honey-stoned houses and ancient inns.     "Some of the most coveted hotels in the region, including The Lygon Arms, Dormy House, and The Fish are located here. Nearby, Broadway Tower offers spectacular views from its elevated and inspiring position.

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Five Star Stays, Scarborough

Our luxury self-catering holiday cottages are nestled in the pretty villages of Seamer and Scalby, just outside Scarborough, on the North Yorkshire coast.

Staithes

Staithes has often been regarded simply as a traditional fishing village. However, the village is set in some spectacularly rugged coastlines, rich in marine life and boasting of a proud maritime history dating back millennia. Staithes can also fairly claim Captain Cook as one of its former residents.  Located on the “Dinosaur Coast”, Staithes is also a popular spot for fossil hunting which can be done independently or in well-organised local tours. Alternatively, wandering through the narrow alleys and cobbled streets of the Old Town offers a vivid glimpse of historic Staithes. Be aware though that parking is not allowed anywhere in the Old Town.

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Middletons, York

Tucked beneath a leafy canopy that’s wrapped inside York’s medieval walls, Middletons is a collection of luxurious accommodation spread across six historical listed buildings, including Chaplin House, Cromwell House and Lady Anne House, which is a fine example of Georgian architecture.

Aldeburgh

Aldeburgh is a traditional seaside town with plenty to offer the visiting tourist. A pebble beach runs from the Martello Tower overlooking the harbour at the south of town to the controversial Scallop sculpture in the North. We recommend a visit to the Aldeburgh Market, an ice-cream from Munchies, a stroll along the beach past the Fishing Huts and then grabbing fish and chips from the renowned Aldeburgh Fish and Chips Shop.  Take a seat overlooking the sea whilst fighting off the seagulls. If you're interested in music then head to the Red House for an insight into Benjamin Britten's past.


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The Gunton Arms, Norfolk

Taking pride of place in a sprawling deer park that surrounds Gunton Hall, The Gunton Arms boasts an enviable setting and a fascinating past. Throughout the years the characterful pub has played host to many notable figures, such as Lillie Langtry.

Southwold

Southwold is regarded as the jewel in the crown of East Suffolk seaside resorts. Its famous pier makes it a popular destination for those wanting both invigorating sea air and a tranquil sunny haven. The beach has been recognised as a Blue Flag beach, meaning the clean water is great for swimming.    The pier is 620ft long and includes an eclectic collection of modern coin-operated novelty machines designed and constructed by the inventor Tim Hunkin. Dotted along the coastline are the colourful beach huts, iconic of any British seaside town.

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The Suffield Arms, Norfolk

Don’t be fooled by its rural setting and elegant demeanour, inside The Suffield Arms is a heady concoction of styles that commands your  attention. With its flamboyant artwork, old-school bar, Mediterranean tapas restaurant and sultry Saloon Bar, The Suffield has taken the village of Thorpe Market by storm.

Mousehole

Mousehole (pronounced Mowzal) is one of Cornwall's most picturesque and charming fishing villages. This harbourside location is foodie heaven and local dishes often take inspiration from the sea, with shellfish in abundance. Beautiful views over the Mousehole Harbour and the pretty fishing boats transport you back to a different, slower-paced time. Granite fishermen's cottages line the narrow roads and invigorating walks through the surrounding countryside take in the heavenly coastal views.

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The Crescent

Taking centre stage in the heart of the spa town of Ilkley in the Yorkshire Dales, The Crescent is an iconic building dating back to 1860. The curved walls wrap around a more modern interior which mingles effortlessly with its rich heritage.

The Ribblehead Viaduct

Just beyond the Cumbrian border with Yorkshire and a short drive from Ingleton, Ribblehead Viaduct maintains an imposing presence over the surrounding moorlands. Comprising a massive sequence of 24 stone archways rising 100 ft above the ground, the Viaduct most resembles a Roman aqueduct. This impressive product of Victorian engineering, however, cost the lives of hundreds of navvies toiling on its completion. So great was the death toll that the Settle-Carlisle Railway actually paid for an extension to the local graveyard.

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The Farrier, Scarborough

Hugged by the North Yorkshire Coast between Scarborough and Filey in the  handsome village of Cayton, The Farrier is blessed with a dramatic  setting and more history than you can shake a stick at. Fusing the rich  equestrian heritage of the village with traditional hospitality, this  family-run inn sees no stone left unturned when it comes to luxury and  comfort.

Kynance Cove
Sparkling azure water and powdery sand greet you at Kynance Cove, one of the prettiest locations in Cornwall on the west side of the Lizard.  Owned by the National Trust, a steep walk takes you down to the beach below, and at low tide you can view the distinctive serpentine rock formations, caves and rock stacks.    This idyllic location makes it one of the most popular beaches in Cornwall and its beauty draws the crowds in the summer months. The more adventurous visitors leap from some of the rock pinnacles, but be aware that the currents are strong and there are no lifeguards. A popular beach café operates during the summer months.

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The Old Inn Mullion

At the heart of the idyllic coastal village of Mullion, The Old Inn is a traditional 16th-century pub that has retained its old-world Cornish charm. Think thatched roof, parquet flooring and cosy nooks and crannies with sash windows and exposed wooden beams.

Goathland
Goathland is a refreshing moorland village in the centre of the North York Moors National Park. The village has become increasingly popular as a tourist destination due to its role as Aidensfield in the TV series Heartbeat, and features lots of old cars and business names that are the the same as in the series.    More recently, Goathland Train Station was used as the station for Hogsmeade in the first Harry Potter films. You can arrive in the village in the same manner as the students via the steam train before taking in the sights.

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Judge’s Lodging, York

As grand and imposing as many of York’s iconic buildings, this Grade I listed Georgian townhouse blends in seamlessly with the city. Judge’s  Lodging not only boasts a beautiful façade, but its interior is equally as striking.

Corfe Castle
For more than 1,000 years, Corfe Castle and Castle Town have shared an eventful history. Overlooked by the castle’s dramatic silhouette, Castle Town seems cut from the same fabric of grey Purbeck limestone as the castle. And yet there is more to the town than just being a castle offspring - this once medieval village has been home to everything from a military garrison to a royal estate.    Today, visitors to the town can enjoy a scenic stroll along its waterline or sample fine food and drink at one of Corfe’s impressive pubs and restaurants. And, of course, there is always the castle.

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The Red Lion, Skipton

Flanking the River Wharfe and lying beneath the gaze of dramatic fells, Burnsall plays host to The Red Lion, a former 16th-century coaching inn. Blessed with the beautiful scenery of the Yorkshire Dales, this boutique inn with rooms makes a great base for exploring the great outdoors.

Dartmoor
Dartmoor National Park’s 386 square miles of vast wilderness gives you numerous opportunities to explore some of England’s most untamed countryside, with its streams and rivers, granite tors, wildflower meadows, ancient oak forests and fern-covered hillsides.    Whether you’re a land or water lover, this is the place to try wild swimming, hiking, cycling and kayaking. Its beauty is more brooding than dramatic, but Dartmoor provides a special habitat for the wildlife that thrives here. Salmon and sea trout migrate up the rivers to spawn and kingfishers and otters can be spotted within the protected and cherished landscape.

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The Golden Lion

Behind the unassuming façade of this 17th-century  coaching inn awaits a rustic interior that celebrates The Golden Lion’s Yorkshire heritage. Still retaining much of its original charm, you’ll  find beautiful oak flooring, inglenook fireplace and tweed fabrics.

Oxford

Oxford, the City of Dreaming Spires, offers a blend of rich history and modern innovation. Its globally renowned university, with colleges dating back to the 13th century, exudes an age-old charm and intellectual legacy. Each corner of Oxford teems with architectural marvels, from the Radcliffe Camera to the Bridge of Sighs. The city also boasts wonderful gardens, lively markets, and cultural festivals. Plus, you can enjoy punting on the River Cherwell, a quintessential Oxford experience. Oxford is not just a place, but a journey back in time with a lively cultural scene that makes it a must-visit destination.


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The Ironmongers, Norfolk

Overlooking the ancient Aylsham market square and drenched in history,  The Ironmongers offers unique boutique accommodation. As you step into  this old Elizabethan townhouse, there’s a real sense of history that  floats through the air.

The Lake District

The Lake District, a region in England's northwest corner, captivates with its mesmerizing landscape. Majestic fells rise into the sky, while serene lakes reflect the area's untouched beauty. It's a place where nature's poetry unfolds through shimmering waters, rolling hills, and verdant woodlands. Every season paints the district with unique colors, from spring's fresh blooms to autumn's russet tones. The area's quaint villages, rich history, and timeless charm add an extra allure. The Lake District’s enchanting allure isn't just in its visual beauty, but also in the serenity it brings to the soul.


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The Pheasant Hotel, Yorkshire

Exuding a timeless elegance that wouldn’t look out of place in a glossy  magazine, The Pheasant Hotel has all the hallmarks of a luxurious  country house. From its beautiful bucolic setting to the antique  furnishings and roaring log fires, this is exactly the kind of place you  dream of when planning an escape in the Yorkshire countryside.

The Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site stretching along 95 miles of England's southern coastline, is an unrivaled geological wonder. Its cliffs and beaches act as an open history book, revealing 185 million years of Earth's past across three geological periods. Fossil hunting here is an exciting journey back to the era of dinosaurs. Striking landmarks like Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, and Old Harry Rocks exemplify the coast's dramatic beauty. Whether you're interested in geology, enjoy coastal walks, or simply appreciate natural beauty, the Jurassic Coast is a fascinating destination that stirs the imagination and spirit.


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The Plough, Scarborough

The Plough, where boutique accommodation and award-winning dining blend  seamlessly with traditional Yorkshire hospitality. Nestled in the village of Scalby, a few miles from the beloved seaside town of Scarborough on the North Yorkshire coast. A charming gem with as much character and appeal as its residents.

Glastonbury

Glastonbury, a small town in Somerset, England, is steeped in history and legend. It's best known for the Glastonbury Tor, a hill featuring the remains of St. Michael's Tower, which offers panoramic views of the countryside. Associated with tales of King Arthur and rumored to be the mythical Isle of Avalon, the Tor is a magnet for history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers. The Glastonbury Abbey ruins, another historical treasure, are believed to be King Arthur’s burial place. The town is also globally recognized for the Glastonbury Festival, one of the world's most famous music and performing arts events.


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Boconnoc, Cornwall

Enveloped by ancient woodland and sprawling gardens, Boconnoc boasts a stunning setting on a Georgian country estate. Filled with grandeur and centuries-old history, the building was first recorded in the Domesday Book in 1086.

The Cheddar Gorge

Cheddar Gorge, located in Somerset, England, is a natural wonder renowned for its dramatic cliffs and stunning subterranean stalactite show caves. Carved into the Mendip Hills, it's Britain's largest gorge and reveals a fascinating geological history spanning millions of years. Visitors can enjoy walks along cliff-top paths offering spectacular views, or explore the Gough's Cave with its impressive formations. The gorge is also home to unique flora and fauna, including the Cheddar Pink flower and a variety of protected bat species. Cheddar Gorge, with its rich history and natural


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Cley Windmill, Norfolk

Boasting an intriguing history dating back to the early 19th century, Cley Windmill is a five-storey tower mill that has been sympathetically converted into a unique guesthouse.

Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh Castle, perched atop a rocky plateau in Northumberland, England, is one of the country's most iconic landmarks. Dominating the skyline with its formidable stone walls, the castle has watched over the North Sea for over a thousand years. The well-preserved interior showcases sumptuous state rooms, fascinating exhibits, and historical artefacts, providing a captivating window into the past. Outside, the castle's stunning location on Bamburgh Beach offers panoramic coastal views and opportunities for leisurely walks. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a nature admirer, Bamburgh Castle offers a captivating blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.



Our Travel Guides

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Available this Spring

Yorkshire's Most Beautiful Places to Visit

Yorkshire is ahistoric county in northern England, known for its rolling hills,stunning coastline, and charming towns and villages.

Cornwall's Most Beautiful Places to Visit

Cornwall is acounty located in the southwest of England, known for its stunningcoastline, picturesque villages, and unique cultural heritage.

Norfolk's Most Beautiful Places to Visit

Norfolk is a county in the East of England, known for its stunning coastline, charming towns and villages, and rich history.

Best of Britain

Yorkshire's Most Beautiful Places

Best of Britain

Cornwall's Most Beautiful Places

Best of Britain

Norfolk's Most Beautiful Places