Essential English Cities
Start here: these five cities give a compact, usable overview of England. London is the transport hub and cultural pulse—museums, markets and direct rail links. For contemporary music, sport and industrial heritage, choose Manchester , where galleries sit beside vibrant venues. Visit Bath for Roman baths and Georgian streets; it’s an efficient day trip from many points. Step into layered history in York , with intact medieval walls and a strong Viking legacy. For maritime character and live music, head to Liverpool , whose waterfront museums tell a global story. Practical takeaway: base yourself in one city and rail-hop—most journeys are 1–3 hours—then allocate 1–3 nights per place depending on museums, nightlife and walking routes.

England has 10 National Parks that together protect 9.3% of the country. They span everything from the high fells of the Lake District to the chalk cliffs of the South Downs.