The Best Cities, Towns & Villages in South East England

Oxford captivates with its stunning university architecture, cobbled lanes, and riverside charm. Explore historic colleges, the Bodleian Library, and punting on the Cherwell for a timeless taste of academic elegance and English tradition.

Brighton blends quirky charm with seaside style. Explore the iconic Pier, wander The Lanes’ indie shops, and admire the exotic Royal Pavilion. With pebbled beaches, vibrant nightlife, and creative spirit, it’s the south coast’s coolest coastal escape.

Portsmouth is a vibrant waterfront city known for its naval history, historic dockyard and lively harbour. It offers museums, shopping, seaside attractions and views across the Solent, with strong links to Britain’s maritime past.

Home to the iconic Windsor Castle, Windsor combines royal heritage with riverside walks, historic streets and lively shops and cafés. Its location beside the Thames and close to London makes it a popular year-round destination.

Canterbury captivates with medieval charm and lively culture. Explore the stunning cathedral, wander cobbled streets of timber-framed houses, and enjoy riverside gardens. With history, shops and cosy pubs, this Kent city offers a timeless appeal.

Framed by the South Downs and the English Channel, Eastbourne is known for its Victorian seafront, pier and nearby chalk cliffs at Beachy Head. It offers beaches, gardens and coastal walks in a relaxed seaside setting.

With its cobbled lanes and medieval charm, Rye is known for historic inns, timber-framed buildings and views across the Romney Marsh. Its galleries, cafés and coastal setting make it one of Sussex’s most picturesque towns.

Known for its medieval streets and historic cathedral, Winchester combines rich heritage with independent shops, riverside walks and a lively cultural scene. Its compact centre and countryside setting make it a popular Hampshire destination.

Known for its historic high street and riverside setting, Guildford combines shopping, theatres and cafés with nearby countryside and the Surrey Hills. Its mix of heritage and modern amenities makes it one of Surrey’s most popular destinations.

Famous for the historic Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court combines riverside walks, green spaces and elegant architecture with easy access to London and the Thames Valley.

Located in the Thames Valley, Reading combines modern shopping, riverside parks and historic landmarks with excellent transport links to London and the South East. It offers a lively yet convenient base close to both countryside and city life.

Set beside the River Thames, Richmond upon Thames is known for its riverside walks, elegant streets and expansive green spaces including Richmond Park. Its blend of village charm and easy access to central London makes it a popular destination year-round.

Southampton is a major south coast city known for its maritime heritage, cruise port and medieval walls. It offers shopping, museums, waterfront parks and easy access to the New Forest and Solent coastline.

Dominated by its impressive castle and cathedral, Arundel is a historic market town known for its medieval streets, riverside walks and independent shops. Its blend of heritage and countryside charm makes it a popular South Downs destination.

Famous for the 1066 Battle of Hastings, Battle is a historic market town centred around Battle Abbey and its battlefield. Surrounded by rolling countryside, it combines medieval heritage with independent shops, cafés and walking trails.

Set on the Sussex coast, Bexhill-on-Sea is known for its seafront promenade, relaxed atmosphere and modernist De La Warr Pavilion. The town combines beaches, cultural events and coastal walks with traditional seaside charm.

Broadstairs charms with sandy bays, cliff-top walks and a picturesque old town. Known as “the Jewel in Thanet”, it’s steeped in Dickensian history, with a lively food scene, beach huts, and sweeping sea views perfect for a classic seaside escape.

Known for its Roman heritage and striking cathedral, Chichester combines historic streets, galleries and markets with easy access to the South Downs and nearby coast. Its blend of culture and countryside makes it a popular Sussex destination.

Known for its historic old town and creative seaside atmosphere, Hastings blends medieval streets, beaches and fishing heritage with galleries, cafés and coastal walks along the Sussex shore.

Known for its modern layout and green spaces, Milton Keynes combines shopping, entertainment and business districts with lakes, parks and cycle routes. Its central location and strong transport links make it a major regional hub.