Overview
England, a country with rich history, iconic landmarks, and a blend of ancient and modern culture, offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. From the vibrant streets of London to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and the dramatic coastlines of Cornwall, England has something for everyone. With its castles, museums, historic sites, and beautiful countryside, it’s a country that mixes tradition with modernity. Whether you’re visiting the University of Oxford or strolling through the gardens of Buckingham Palace, England is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Quick Facts
- Language: English (official)
- Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP)
- Climate: Temperate maritime climate, with cool winters and mild summers, and rainfall throughout the year
- Best Time to Travel: May to September (summer months) for pleasant weather and festivals
- Visa: EU nationals don’t need a visa. Other nationals may need a UK visa for stays longer than 6 months
- Power Plugs: Type G, 230V
- Time Zone: GMT (Greenwich Mean Time), UTC +0, BST (British Summer Time) during daylight savings time
Where to Fly Into
London Heathrow (LHR) is the busiest airport in the UK, with flights from major cities worldwide. Other airports include Gatwick (LGW), Manchester (MAN), and Birmingham (BHX).
Budget
- Accommodation: Budget hostels or guesthouses range from $40-80 per night, mid-range hotels range from $80-150, and luxury accommodations start at $150+ per night.
- Food: Casual meals at restaurants cost around $12-25, while fine dining can range from $40-80 per person.
- Transport: Public transportation in London is affordable, with a single journey on the Underground costing around $3-5. Intercity trains and buses can range from $20-50 depending on distance.
Climate
England has a temperate maritime climate, meaning mild winters and summers with occasional rain. Summers are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, while the winter months are cozy with festive celebrations and fewer crowds.
- Average Temperature (Celsius/Fahrenheit):
- Winter (December to February): 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F)
- Summer (June to August): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Spring/Autumn (March to May, September to November): 5°C to 18°C (41°F to 64°F)
Safety
England is considered a very safe country to visit, with low crime rates in most areas. However, it’s still important to be vigilant in busy areas, especially in cities like London, where pickpocketing can occur in crowded places.
Top 10 Things to Do in England
- Visit the Tower of London: Discover England’s royal history at this iconic fortress, home to the Crown Jewels and centuries of fascinating stories.
- Explore Buckingham Palace: Watch the Changing of the Guard at the Queen’s official residence, or tour the palace during the summer months when it’s open to the public.
- Stroll Through Hyde Park in London: This vast green space in central London is perfect for a relaxing walk, boating, or enjoying one of the many open-air events throughout the year.
- Tour the British Museum: Home to one of the world’s greatest collections of art and artifacts, this museum is a must-see for history buffs.
- Take a Trip to Stonehenge: Visit the mysterious prehistoric stone circle in Wiltshire, one of the most famous landmarks in the UK.
- Explore Oxford University: Wander through the historic and stunning colleges of one of the world’s oldest universities, including the Bodleian Library and the Radcliffe Camera.
- Visit the Lake District National Park: Known for its stunning lakes, rolling hills, and charming villages, the Lake District is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and boating.
- Tour the Roman Baths in Bath: Step back in time as you explore the well-preserved Roman Baths in the charming Georgian city of Bath.
- See the White Cliffs of Dover: Enjoy the breathtaking views of these iconic white chalk cliffs along the coast of Kent, with the English Channel stretching out before you.
- Explore Windsor Castle: The oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor Castle is a residence for the British Royal Family and offers fascinating tours through its state apartments.