Rick Steves Best of England

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By Rick Steves

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Hit England's can't-miss art, sights, and bites in two weeks or less with Rick Steves Best of England!
  • Strategic advice from Rick Steves on what's worth your time and money
  • Short itineraries covering the best of London, Bath, the Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon, Liverpool, the Lake District, and York, including Windsor Castle, Cambridge, Oxford, Stonehenge, and more
  • Rick's tips for beating the crowds, skipping lines, and avoiding tourist traps
  • The best local culture, flavors, and more, including insightful walks through museums, historic sights, and atmospheric neighborhoods
  • Trip planning strategies like how to link destinations and design your itinerary, what to pack, where to stay, and how to get around
  • Over 400 full-color pages with detailed maps and vibrant photos throughout
  • Suggestions for day trips and excursions
Experience England's Old World sophistication and modern-day excitement for yourself with Rick Steves Best of England!

Planning a longer trip? Pick up Rick Steves England, an in-depth guide perfect for spending more than two weeks exploring England.

Excerpt

THE BEST OF ENGLAND

Map: Top Destinations in England

THE BEST OF LONDON

THE BEST OF BATH

THE BEST OF THE COTSWOLDS

THE BEST OF THE LAKE DISTRICT

THE BEST OF YORK

THE BEST OF EDINBURGH

THE BEST OF THE REST

TRAVEL SMART

Designing Your Itinerary

Trip Costs

Map: Best of England in 2 Weeks

Before You Go

Travel Strategies on the Road

Climb the dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral and marvel at the pageantry of the guards at Buckingham Palace. Strike up a conversation just to hear the Queen’s English. Ponder an ancient stone circle and wander the windswept hills that inspired Wordsworth. See a Shakespeare play or the latest splashy West End musical. Bite into a scone smothered with clotted cream, sip a cup of tea, and wave your pinky as if it’s a Union Jack. From appealing towns to the grandeur of London, England delights.

England is the center of the United Kingdom in every way: home to four out of five UK citizens, the seat of government, the economic powerhouse, and the cultural heart. Regardless of the revolution we had centuries ago, many American travelers feel that they “go home” when they visit England.

The English people have a worldwide reputation for being cheery, courteous, and well-mannered. And like in days past, Brits flock to the pub to be social. No matter what time of day, a visit to a historic pub is an enriching experience—and you’ll likely make a new friend or two.

Even as England races forward as a leading global player, it preserves its rich history. This means stone circles, ruined abbeys, cathedrals, castles, and palaces are still yours to explore.

Britannia rules—enjoy it royally.

THE BEST OF ENGLAND

This book focuses on England’s top destinations, offering a mix of exciting cities and irresistible villages.

London is one of the grandest cities in the world. The town of Bath has attracted visitors since the time of ancient Rome. Quaint Cotswolds towns offer an endearing contrast to the modern-day world. The serene Lake District—crisscrossed with trails, ridges, and lakes—has enough pubs to keep hikers watered and fed. York, with its colorful old town and ghost walks, is a popular haunt for travelers. Across the northern border, Edinburgh is too convenient to pass up—adding a wee bit of Scotland to your trip.

When there are interesting sights or towns near my top destinations, I cover these briefly (as “Near” sights), to help you fill out a free day or a longer stay.

Beyond the major destinations, I’ll cover the Best of the Rest—great destinations that don’t quite make my top cut, but are worth seeing if you have more time or specific interests: the historic college town of Oxford, majestic Blenheim Palace, Shakespeare’s hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon, rejuvenated Liverpool, small Durham with its big cathedral, and ancient Hadrian’s Wall.

To help you link the top sights, I’ve designed a two-week itinerary (on here), with tips for tailoring it to your interests.

THE BEST OF LONDON

This thriving, teeming metropolis packs in all things British with a cosmopolitan flair: royal palaces, soaring churches, world-class museums, captivating theater, and people-friendly parks. Come prepared to celebrate the tradition and fanfare of yesterday while catching the buzz of a trendsetting city forging its future.

THE BEST OF LONDON

London’s many grand parks provide a peaceful respite from the big city.

THE BEST OF LONDON

Plays at Shakespeare’s Globe attract modern-day Juliets and Romeos.

THE BEST OF LONDON

Spanning the Thames, the pedestrian-only Millennium Bridge connects St. Paul’s Cathedral and Tate Modern.

THE BEST OF LONDON

The pomp and pageantry of the Changing of the Guard entertains onlookers.

THE BEST OF LONDON

It’s easy to eat well and affordably in cosmopolitan London.

THE BEST OF LONDON

A statue of Churchill overlooks historic Parliament Square.

THE BEST OF LONDON

The London Eye Ferris wheel, a fun addition to the cityscape, offers stunning views to riders.

THE BEST OF LONDON

Street performers give London a lively vibe.

THE BEST OF BATH

This genteel Georgian showcase city, built around the remains of an ancient Roman bath, hosts an abbey, museums, a spa, walking tours, and graceful architecture that was part of Jane Austen’s world. Proud locals remind visitors that the town is routinely banned from the “Britain in Bloom” contest to give other towns a chance to win.

THE BEST OF BATH

Bath’s glorious abbey takes center stage in town.

THE BEST OF BATH

Jane Austen lived—and set two of her novels—in Bath.

THE BEST OF BATH

The baths that gave the town its unusual name date to Roman times.

THE BEST OF BATH

The Pump Room has tea, goodies, and samples of “curative” spa water to drink.

THE BEST OF BATH

The fanciful Parade Gardens, worth a stroll, are near the shop-lined Pulteney Bridge.

THE BEST OF BATH

The Bizarre Bath walking tour makes any evening enjoyable.

THE BEST OF BATH

The Thermae Bath Spa taps the thermal springs burbling under Bath.

THE BEST OF BATH

The lawn in front of the Royal Crescent offers a royal place to relax.

THE BEST OF THE COTSWOLDS

Scattered over this hilly countryside are fragrant fields, peaceful sheep, and dear villages. My favorites are cozy Chipping Campden and popular Stow-on-the-Wold—each with pubs, hikes, and charm to spare. All the Cotswold towns run on slow clocks and yellowed calendars. If the 21st century has come, they don’t care.

THE BEST OF THE COTSWOLDS

Lovely little Chipping Campden invites and rewards exploration.

THE BEST OF THE COTSWOLDS

Sheep are as much a part of the Cotswolds as the people.

THE BEST OF THE COTSWOLDS

Visitors cool off at Bourton-on-the-Water.

THE BEST OF THE COTSWOLDS

The lodgings in Stow-on-the-Wold can be as quaint as the village itself.

THE BEST OF THE COTSWOLDS

In Broadway, the buildings—made of local limestone—give off a warm glow.

THE BEST OF THE COTSWOLDS

At Cotswold Farm Park, it’s easy to make new friends.

THE BEST OF THE COTSWOLDS

Pubs throughout the Cotswolds provide an atmospheric destination for hikers, bikers, and drivers.

THE BEST OF THE LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District, about 30 miles long and 30 miles wide, is nature’s lush, green playground. This idyllic region of rugged ridges and tranquil lakes offers scenic hikes, cruises, joyrides, timeless vistas, and William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter sights, plus an ancient stone circle perfect for pondering it all.

THE BEST OF THE LAKE DISTRICT

Keswick, the best home base, has an appealing main square, fine eateries, and a lovely lake.

THE BEST OF THE LAKE DISTRICT

Ullswater is one of the many lakes that give the district its name.

THE BEST OF THE LAKE DISTRICT

At Dove Cottage, William Wordsworth wrote his finest poetry, inspired by the wonders of nature.

THE BEST OF THE LAKE DISTRICT

Old-time signs mark old-time pubs.

THE BEST OF THE LAKE DISTRICT

Castlerigg Stone Circle, just outside Keswick, is 5,000 years old—as old as Stonehenge.

THE BEST OF THE LAKE DISTRICT

B&Bs provide a welcome home away from home.

THE BEST OF THE LAKE DISTRICT

An easy loop trail around Buttermere Lake rewards hikers with serene views.

THE BEST OF YORK

Encircled by medieval walls, compact York has a glorious Gothic cathedral, a ruined abbey, and modern museums (on Vikings and more). Classy restaurants hide out in the atmospheric old center, with its “snickelway” passages and colorful Shambles shopping lane.

THE BEST OF YORK

York’s massive Minster offers up a divine evensong and magnificent, medieval stained glass.

THE BEST OF YORK

The National Railway Museum’s models range from early “stagecoaches on rails” to the sleek Eurostar.

THE BEST OF YORK

Gurkha soldiers in the British Army march past the Minster.

THE BEST OF YORK

A Viking amusement ride or a museum? Jorvik Viking Centre is a bit of both.

THE BEST OF YORK

Breaking from the pope, Henry VIII closed all monasteries, leaving many—like St. Mary’s Abbey—in ruins.

THE BEST OF YORK

Along the Shambles street, shops hang old-fashioned signs from old, tilting buildings.

THE BEST OF YORK

At Bettys Café Tea Rooms, window seats offer the best people-watching.

THE BEST OF EDINBURGH

Just north of England’s border is Scotland’s showpiece city. Nestled by craggy bluffs, photogenic Edinburgh is studded with a prickly skyline of spires, towers, and domes. Its Royal Mile, lined with medieval buildings, connects the castle and palace in an attraction-studded stroll through Scottish history. Edinburgh’s proximity and exuberance (nonstop during August’s festivals) bring a Scottish flair to an England trip.

THE BEST OF EDINBURGH

Edinburgh’s famous street, the Royal Mile, offers a pleasing array of attractions, pubs, shops, and historic churches.

THE BEST OF EDINBURGH

Highland dancers stepping over crossed swords practice the Sword Dance.

THE BEST OF EDINBURGH

Some shops make custom kilts using woven (not cheaply printed) tartan material.

THE BEST OF EDINBURGH

A bagpiper in full regalia plays Scotland’s national instrument.

THE BEST OF EDINBURGH

Shops and pubs, fueled by Scotland’s many whisky distilleries, sell the national drink.

THE BEST OF EDINBURGH

Try a few drams of whisky at a tasting.

THE BEST OF EDINBURGH

Edinburgh’s formidable castle repelled foes long ago and attracts visitors today.

THE BEST OF THE REST

With extra time, splice any of these destinations into your trip. Oxford has revered colleges and illustrious alumni, and nearby Blenheim Palace is good enough for Churchill. All the world’s a stage, but if you want Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is the top venue. The lively port of Liverpool launched The Beatles. Durham, with a cavernous cathedral, makes a good stop before or after Hadrian’s Wall, near the Scottish border.

THE BEST OF THE REST

Durham’s cathedral has Europe’s tallest bell tower and memorials for saints, scholars, and coal miners.

THE BEST OF THE REST

In Oxford, rental punts await unsuspecting novices who think punting looks easy.

THE BEST OF THE REST

The dining hall at Oxford’s Christ Church College puts most college cafeterias to shame.

THE BEST OF THE REST

Near Oxford, Blenheim Palace attracts historians and garden lovers.

THE BEST OF THE REST

In Liverpool, John Lennon hangs out at the Cavern Club, named after the original club (now gone) where The Beatles played.

THE BEST OF THE REST

Through his work, Stratford-born Shakespeare explored the sweet sorrow of the human condition.

THE BEST OF THE REST

Built by Romans, the now-ruined Hadrian’s Wall blocked out invaders from what is Scotland today.

THE BEST OF THE REST

Liverpool’s Albert Dock is awash with attractions—museums, restaurants, and nighttime fun.

TRAVEL SMART

Approach England like a veteran traveler, even if it’s your first trip. Design your itinerary, get a handle on your budget, make advance arrangements, and follow my travel strategies on the road.

For my best advice on sightseeing, accommodations, restaurants, and transportation, see the Practicalities chapter.

Designing Your Itinerary

Decide when to go. July and August are peak season in England, with long days, the best weather, and a busy schedule of tourist fun. May and June can be lovely anywhere. Spring and fall offer decent weather and smaller crowds.

Winter travelers face few crowds and soft room prices (except in London), but sightseeing hours are shorter and the weather is reliably bad. In the countryside, some attractions open only on weekends or close entirely (Nov-Feb). While rural charm falls with the leaves, city sightseeing is fine in winter.

Choose your top destinations. My itinerary (on here) gives you an idea of how much you can reasonably see in 14 days, but it’s easy to adapt it to fit your interests and time frame.

London offers an amazing variety of sights, food, markets, and the most entertainment. Many travelers could spend a week here (and make easy day trips, if desired). Edinburgh offers similar big-city excitement, especially during its festivals in August. If you prefer midsize towns, Bath and York have much to offer.

Historians can choose among sights prehistoric (Stonehenge), Roman (Bath and Hadrian’s Wall), medieval (York and Warwick), royal (Tower of London, Windsor, and Blenheim), and many more.

Nature lovers linger in the Lake District (offering a range of easy-to-challenging hikes in a lakes-and-hills setting) and the Cotswolds (with easier hikes through villages, meadows, and rolling hills).

Literary fans make a pilgrimage to Stratford (Shakespeare), Oxford (Tolkien, Lewis, Woolf, Wilde, and more), Bath (Austen), the Lake District (Wordsworth and Potter), and Edinburgh (Burns, Stevenson, Scott, and more). Beatles fans from here, there, and everywhere head to Liverpool.

Draft a rough itinerary. Figure out how many destinations you can comfortably fit in the time you have. Don’t overdo it—few travelers wish they’d hurried more. Allow enough days per stop: Figure on at least two days for most destinations and four or more for London. Staying in a home base—like London or Bath—and making day trips can be more time-efficient than changing locations and hotels. Minimize one-night stands, especially consecutive ones; it can be worth taking a late-afternoon train ride or drive to get settled into a town for two nights.

Connect the dots. Link your destinations into a logical route. Determine which cities you’ll fly into and out of; begin your search for transatlantic flights at Kayak.com.

Instead of spending the first few days of your trip in busy London, I’d recommend a gentler small-town start in Bath and saving London for the grand finale. Going from Heathrow Airport to Bath takes just two hours by train. You’ll be more rested and ready to tackle England’s greatest city at the end of your trip.

Decide if you’ll travel by car, take public transportation, or use a combination. A car is particularly helpful for exploring the Cotswolds and the Lake District (where public transportation can be time-consuming), but is useless in big cities. Some travelers rent a car on site for a day or two, and use public transportation for the rest of their trip.

Shakespeare fans visit Stratford-upon-Avon.

If relying on public transportation, you’ll likely use a mix of trains and buses. Trains are faster and more expensive than buses (which don’t run as often on Sundays). Also, for efficient regional sightseeing, consider minibus tours (offered from London, Bath, the Lake District, York, and Edinburgh).

Allot sufficient time for transportation in your itinerary. Whether you travel by train, bus, or car, it’ll take a half-day to get between most destinations. To determine approximate transportation times between your destinations, study the driving chart on here or check Google Maps; visit NationalRail.co.uk for train schedules or Traveline.info (a route-planning site that includes train and bus options). If traveling beyond England, consider taking the Eurostar train (to the Continent) or a flight; check Skyscanner.com for intra-European flights.

Plan your days. Fine-tune your itinerary; write out a day-by-day plan of where you’ll be and what you want to see. To help you make the most of your time, I’ve suggested day plans for each major destination. But take sight closures into account: Avoid visiting a town on the one day a week that its must-see sights are closed. Check if any holidays or festivals fall during your trip—these attract crowds and can close sights (for the latest, visit England’s tourist website, www.visitbritain.com).

Give yourself some slack. Every trip, and every traveler, needs downtime for doing laundry, picnic shopping, relaxing, people-watching, and so on. Pace yourself. Assume you will return.

Ready, set. . . You’ve designed the perfect itinerary for the trip of a lifetime.

Trip Costs

Run a reality check on your dream trip. You’ll have major transportation costs in addition to daily expenses.

Flight: A round-trip flight from the US to London costs about $900-1,500, depending on where you fly from and when.

This unforgettable trip will show you the very best that England has to offer, with a little help from Scotland. You can use public transit, rent a car, or use a combination. Renting a car for just a day or two is most fun in the Cotswolds and the Lake District.

DAY PLAN SLEEP
 

Genre:

On Sale
Feb 27, 2024
Page Count
424 pages
Publisher
Rick Steves
ISBN-13
9781641715812

Rick Steves

About the Author

Since 1973, Rick Steves has spent about four months a year exploring Europe. His mission: to empower Americans to have European trips that are fun, affordable, and culturally broadening. Rick produces a best-selling guidebook series, a public television series, and a public radio show, and organizes small-group tours that take over 30,000 travelers to Europe annually.  He does all of this with the help of more than 100 well-traveled staff members at Rick Steves’ Europe in Edmonds, WA (near Seattle). When not on the road, Rick is active in his church and with advocacy groups focused on economic and social justice, drug policy reform, and ending hunger. To recharge, Rick plays piano, relaxes at his family cabin in the Cascade Mountains, and spends time with his son Andy and daughter Jackie. Find out more about Rick at http://www.ricksteves.com and on Facebook.

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