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Best of South East England | Recommended Places to Stay & Visit

Why visit South East England? South East England is a region of stunning contrasts, offering a mix of historic cities, picturesque countryside, and charming coastal retreats. The region boasts some of the UK’s most iconic sights, including Windsor Castle, the South Downs, and Canterbury Cathedral. With its beautiful coastline, rolling hills, and charming towns, South East England is perfect for weekend getaways, family trips, and history-filled adventures.

Recommended South East England Accommodation: Hotels Bed & Breakfasts Pub Accommodation

Includes: Berkshire Buckinghamshire East Sussex Hampshire Isle of Wight Kent The New Forest Oxfordshire The South Downs Surrey West Sussex

Arundel

Arundel is a historic market town located in West Sussex. It is renowned for its stunning Arundel Castle, a medieval fortress that has been home to the Duke of Norfolk for over 1,000 years. The town boasts a charming atmosphere, with picturesque streets, independent shops, and a vibrant arts scene. Arundel is also located within the beautiful South Downs National Park.

Brighton & Hove

Brighton & Hove, often referred to simply as Brighton, is a vibrant coastal city located on the south coast of England. Renowned for its pebble beaches, lively nightlife, and cultural diversity, it's a popular tourist destination. The iconic Brighton Pier, Royal Pavilion, and the annual Brighton Festival are key attractions. The city also offers a thriving arts scene, numerous restaurants, and a dynamic LGBTQ+ community.

Burford

Burford, a charming town in the Cotswolds, is known for its picturesque beauty and historic significance. Its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the famous High Street, is a delight for visitors. The town is home to St. John the Baptist Church, with its magnificent spire. Burford's scenic location along the River Windrush and proximity to Cotswold attractions make it a popular visitor destination.

Canterbury

Canterbury, a historic city in Kent, is renowned for its rich cultural and religious heritage. It's most famous for Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. The city's medieval streets, museums, and the ruins of St. Augustine's Abbey offer a glimpse into its past. Canterbury's role in Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales" adds literary significance to this charming destination.

Chichester

Chichester is known for its Roman roots, architectural beauty, and its close proximity to Goodwood. The Chichester Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, is a prominent landmark. The city boasts a thriving arts scene, with the renowned Festival Theatre and Pallant House Gallery. Additionally, the nearby Goodwood Estate offers visitors opportunities for motorsport events and horse racing, adding to the city's appeal for both culture and sports enthusiasts.

Eastbourne

Eastbourne, a seaside town in East Sussex, is famous for its Victorian architecture and scenic coastline. The iconic Eastbourne Pier and Beachy Head, a stunning chalk cliff, are popular attractions. The town hosts various cultural events, including the Eastbourne International Tennis Tournament. Its lush parks and gardens offer tranquil escapes for visitors exploring the South Downs National Park.

Henley-on-Thames

Henley-on-Thames, a charming town in Oxfordshire, is famous for its annual Royal Regatta, a world-renowned rowing event on the River Thames. The town's picturesque riverside setting, historic bridge, and Georgian architecture make it a popular destination. Henley is also home to the River & Rowing Museum, celebrating the sport's heritage. Its lively town centre offers a range of boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants.

New Forest

The New Forest, a National Park, encompasses ancient woodlands, heathlands, and lush grasslands. It's renowned for its diverse wildlife, including ponies and deer. Within the park, Beaulieu is a charming village that houses the Beaulieu Palace House and the National Motor Museum, making it a popular attraction for history and automotive enthusiasts. Visitors can explore multiple walking and cycling trails through the New Forest.

Oxford

The historic city of Oxford is renowned for its prestigious University of Oxford, one of the oldest and most respected in the world. It features exquisite architecture, including the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College. The city's intellectual legacy and cultural richness extend to museums, theatres, and the Botanic Garden. Oxford's scenic waterways, parks, and vibrant student life add to its unique charm.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth, a coastal city in Hampshire, is steeped in maritime history. Home to the historic Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, it houses the iconic HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum, offering insight into British naval heritage. The city boasts a vibrant waterfront, with the Spinnaker Tower as a striking modern landmark. Portsmouth is also known for its lively arts scene, diverse restaurants, and ferry connections to the Isle of Wight.

Reading

Reading is a thriving commercial and cultural hub. It's famous for its annual Reading Festival, a major music event. The town's rich history is evident in its medieval abbey ruins and Victorian architecture. Reading's modern skyline reflects its economic significance, hosting numerous corporate headquarters. It also offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options along the River Thames.

Rye

Rye, a historic town in East Sussex, is a charming gem renowned for its preserved medieval architecture. Cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the 14th-century Mermaid Inn are among its notable features. Rye's strategic coastal location made it historically significant, and its heritage is celebrated in local museums.

Shanklin

Shanklin, a picturesque town on the Isle of Wight, is known for its beautiful sandy beach and stunning coastal scenery. The Old Village area features picturesque thatched-roof cottages, while the Shanklin Chine is a lush ravine with waterfalls and gardens. Visitors can explore the historic Shanklin Pier, relax on the beach, or enjoy various water sports. Shanklin offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and seaside charm.

South Downs

The South Downs is a picturesque national park in southern England, covering approximately 1,600 square kilometres. Known for its rolling chalk hills, scenic landscapes, and diverse wildlife, it offers numerous outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. The park also features historic villages, ancient woodlands, and the iconic Seven Sisters cliffs along the coast.

Southampton

Southampton boasts a rich maritime heritage. It's home to the historic docks, where you can visit the Titanic Engineers' Memorial and the SeaCity Museum. The city is also a gateway to popular cruise destinations. Southampton's cultural scene includes theaters, galleries, and music venues, while its shopping districts and waterfront dining options make it a vibrant and welcoming destination for visitors.

Winchester

Winchester, a historic city in Hampshire, holds a significant place in English history. The city is known for its magnificent Winchester Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It was once the capital of England under King Alfred the Great. Winchester offers a rich cultural experience with its museums, medieval streets, and the Great Hall, home to the Round Table of Arthurian legend.

Windsor

Windsor is renowned for its iconic Windsor Castle, a major royal residence. Additionally, the town is home to the popular Legoland Windsor Resort, a family-friendly theme park. Nearby, the prestigious Ascot Racecourse hosts renowned horse racing events. Windsor's historic charm, royal heritage, and attractions like Legoland and Ascot make it a diverse and captivating destination for visitors of all ages.

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