England
England is a country with a long and historic past. History can be found at every turn, with old castles in the country side, universities dating back to the Middle Ages, ancient Roman sites, and old Royal Palaces which are still in use today. England is more than just its history, with bustling cities, great cultural heritage, and fun things to do.
England is part of the United Kingdom, which includes Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. England’s capital, London, which is home to historic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, The Tower of London and Westminster Abbey.
There are fantastic sites all over England, including Stonehenge, Oxford, Caves of Yorkshire, York Viking Centre, Manchester Science & Industry Museum, and the hot springs of Bath. Or go to Liverpool to see the birthplace of The Beatles.
Best Time To Visit
England has a reputation of being wet and unfortunately that reputation is completely true for the majority of the year. Summers can be mild and wet but can also be very hot and sunny if you time it just right. Winters are cold and wet. The weather can vary greatly from day to day and just because it is summer doesn’t mean it will be warm.
Having all weather clothing and clothing suitable for hot and cold temperatures with you at all times is advisable as conditions change quickly.
From December, the country turns into a winter wonderland, and you’ll find streets lined with decorations and plenty of German Christmas Markets.
If you’re not a fan of cold weather, May to August is the best time to visit England. The sun finally comes out, outdoor bars, open-air theatres open up, and festivals are a plenty.
For a month by month look click here
What To Expect
Capital: London
Language: The official language of England is unsurprisingly, English.
Currency: The currency in England is the British Pound. $1 USD is equivalent to about £0.75 GBP and €1 EUR is £0.87 GBP. Check current exchange rate here
Cash Machines & ATMs: There are plenty of ATMs around England’s big and small cities. Most machines will accept all cards. Credit cards and debit cards are used everywhere in Britain and are the best way to pay for purchases (cash is also fine). Contactless payments can also be used in most places, including Apple Pay & Google Pay.
Plugs: The plugs in England are type G with 3 rectangular pins. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a Universal Power Adapter
Safety: The UK is generally a safe place to live with low crime rates and trusted police forces. They are ranked the 33rd safest country in the world. Always take precautions and be aware of your surroundings to avoid anyone who might try to take advantage of you being in an unfamiliar place
Never ever: If you go to the Tower of London or Buckingham Palace do not touch the guards! These have real guns and are not there for the fun of it. By all means have a picture next to them but don’t expect them to talk.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in England, reasons to visit England, and how to travel England on a budget.
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in England
Steeped in nearly a millennium of history, the Tower of London stands as a testament to England’s rich past. Originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, this iconic fortress has served variously as a royal residence, prison, and mint. Today, visitors can marvel at the Crown Jewels, learn about the many intriguing figures once imprisoned here, and hear tales of mystery and intrigue from the Beefeaters who guard it. The tower’s ravens, each with its own name, add an air of legend, as folklore suggests the monarchy will fall if they ever leave.
2. Punting on the River Cam in Cambridge
Cambridge, with its historic university and stunning architecture, is best experienced from the tranquil waters of the River Cam. Punting, a traditional pastime, involves gliding along the river in a flat-bottomed boat while propelling it with a long pole. As you meander past the beautiful college ‘Backs’, ancient bridges, and pristine gardens, it’s easy to imagine the many scholars and poets who once strolled the riverbanks. Whether you choose to punt yourself or hire a guide, this leisurely activity offers a unique perspective on one of England’s most storied cities.
The Lake District National Park, located in Cumbria, is a realm of poetic beauty. With its shimmering lakes, rolling fells, and quaint villages, it has inspired countless artists, including the famed poet William Wordsworth. Whether you’re hiking up Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, boating on Lake Windermere, or simply savouring a traditional cream tea in a cosy cafe, the Lake District offers both adventure and relaxation. Every turn reveals a new vista, a patchwork of green meadows, ancient stone walls, and serene waters.
Situated on Salisbury Plain, Stonehenge is one of the world’s most enigmatic prehistoric monuments. This ancient circle of standing stones, erected some 5,000 years ago, has baffled archaeologists and historians alike. Was it a temple, an astronomical calendar, or a burial site? While its true purpose remains shrouded in mystery, visiting during the summer or winter solstice offers a magical experience as the sun aligns perfectly with the stones. The visitor centre provides fascinating insights, but standing amidst the ancient stones, one can’t help but ponder the secrets of the past.
The West End, often termed the ‘Broadway of London’, is a theatre aficionado’s dream. This vibrant district boasts some of the world’s most iconic venues, staging a plethora of shows from timeless classics to modern hits. Whether you’re in the mood for the haunting melodies of “Phantom of the Opera”, the uproarious laughter of a comedy, or the captivating drama of Shakespearean plays, there’s something for every taste. Pre-show, the bustling streets of Covent Garden, with their street performers, cafes, and boutiques, perfectly set the stage for an unforgettable evening.
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