England is an endless pageant of stunning landscapes, quaint villages, and vibrant cities teeming with fascinating historical and cultural sites. Even in as few as four or five days, you can see many of its most famous sights. However, plan for a two-week or more extended visit, and you can take in several of the country's distinct regions and cultural activities.
With a warm coat and umbrella, January is an excellent time to take advantage of England's low-season prices and crowds. You'll have more options than you might think, whether you seek an escape in the quaint countryside, winter surfing on the Cornish coast, or more elbow room at famous cultural sites from York to Bath. Of course, you can always find something buzz-worthy in London, starting with a street parade marking the first day of the year.
Despite an increase in rain, October is a lovely time to experience autumn colors around the English countryside—perhaps with a self-guided road trip in the Cotswolds or a river tour in a medieval university town. If big city life is more your speed, London has plenty of action this month with a marathon (and half-marathon), a star-studded film festival, and Halloween-related events.
July is prime summertime in England, with the best weather of the year and long daylight hours to enjoy activities like hiking, swimming, and surfing. You can also kick back on a leisurely road trip through the stunning countryside and stop at historical attractions. Of course, England's cities beckon in July with music festivals and an enormous Pride parade in London.
Each season uniquely showcases England's sublime beauty. Spring is bloomin' lovely as apple blossoms, bluebells, and tulips burst forth, and the grass is impossibly green after winter snow and rains. Long summer days can be gloriously sunny—perfect for a beach holiday or a vacation spent rambling (hiking). Autumn is a blaze of color as leaves turn red, orange, and yellow, while no country feels quite so festive during Christmas, with occasional wintry snows lending a special romance.
February is a great time to take advantage of low rates and fewer crowds in England. Though it's winter, there are many options to choose from, with lesser-known cities, romantic drives in the countryside, and outdoor adventures on the southern coast (like cliff walking and surfing). Or, stick around London and see the famous sites—plus, there's a month-long orchid show at the Royal Botanic Gardens.
June is a beautiful month to visit England as spring turns to summer. Take advantage of the prime weather with a self-guided road trip, perhaps through the Cotswolds or Lake District—or head south for beaches, seafood, and coastal hikes. Make sure to tack on a few days in London with events like the Queen's birthday and Wimbledon, which kick off at the month's end.
September is one of the best (and driest) months to travel in England. Summer is still in session, yet the peak crowds are starting to dissipate for more peace and quiet. Meanwhile, those who like to nosh can flock to several foodie events around the country—like a seafood fest in Dorset, which pairs nicely with the area's stunning coastal trails.
In Augus, England is abuzz with summer vibes when crowds—especially families—head for the beaches and parks to soak up as much outdoor fun as possible. It's easy to find peace and quiet with a self-guided road trip in the countryside, while travelers seeking action can travel (perhaps by train) to bigger resort towns and cities where events and festivals are in full swing.
May in England is awash in fresh greenery and color, from stately manicured gardens to the rugged woodlands where bluebells bloom. It's also a great month to catch off-peak prices before the summer season (and crowds) arrive. However, plenty is going on this month with festivals celebrating Vikings, seafood, and opera—and, of course, gardening at London's famous Chelsea Flower Show.