It’s no secret I love Southern England, I just find this part of the U.K. magical. This list will include some of my favorite things to do including Bath, Durdle Door, and Arundel.
There are so many things to do in southern England. From exploring diverse landscapes, quaint towns, and historical landmarks, It’s just bursting with personality and charm. From the charming Cotswolds villages to the dramatic Cornish coast, there is something for everyone.
My list of places to visit in southern England includes my highlights and the spots I love. So get your notebooks ready as I walk you through some of the beautiful places in southern England.
My favorite places to visit in the south of England are:
- Bath, Somerset
- Castle Combe, Wiltshire,
- Durdle Door, Dorset
- Windsor, Berkshire
- Isles of Scilly
- Old Harry Rocks, Dorset
- Arundel, West Sussex
- Coverack, Cornwall
- Seven Sisters, East Sussex
- Scotney Castle, Kent
- Canterbury, Kent
- Saint Michael’s Mount, Cornwall
10 Pretty Places in Southern England
Bath
I recently asked an English friend of mine what place she would take someone visiting from overseas. A place where someone would get a real feeling of England. Without hesitation she said Bath.
If you are thinking about what to do in the south of England Bath should undoubtedly top the list. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this charming city effortlessly combines historic elegance with modern luxury. There is something beautiful at every turn, be it the stunning architecture, the serene parks, or the lively street markets.
There is also loads to do from the famous Roman Baths to the beautiful Pulteney Bridge, the grandiose Bath Abbey, and the Georgian-era Royal Crescent. And, if you’re a literature enthusiast like me, you won’t want to miss out on the Jane Austen Centre!
Bath is also a foodie’s delight, offering an array of culinary experiences. A personal favorite of mine is the famous Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House and Museum. Do give their Bath buns (an oversized bun/bread roll) a try! I promise they’re a gastronomic wonder.
If you are wondering what to do in the south of England Bath is simply a must-visit.
You can stay right in the heart of Bath at The Gainsborough Bath Spa – the only UK hotel with access to naturally heated thermal waters. If you want to go swimming on holiday, this is the place for you!
Castle Combe
One of my absolute favorite holidays in the south of England included a trip to the charming village of Castle Combe in Wiltshire. With its stunning cottages made from honey-colored Cotswold stone stepping into Castle Combe is like stepping back in time.
I think it’s one of the best southern English villages and is crowned ‘the prettiest village in England’. Honestly, I’ve fallen in love with this tranquil place, in fact, the whole of the Cotswolds, it’s just so beautiful.
A prominent wool trade hub during the Middle Ages you find some really old stuff here, well old for Americans. St. Andrew’s Church houses one of the oldest working clocks in England for example.
When it comes to day trips in south England they don’t get much better than a trip here. I also recommend nearby Bibury which is also a gorgeous Cotswold village.
For the perfect Southern England itinerary combine this with a trip to Stonehenge and Highgrove Gardens which are both close by.
The White Hart pub has all the English charm and great rooms, it’s a perfect place to stay.
Durdle Door
If like me you are a fan of majestic locations you are going to love Durdle Door and the surrounding locations. It’s one of the most picturesque and iconic places to visit in the south of England.
On the Jurassic Coast Durdle Door is a large arched rock formation going out into the sea. In a picturesque cove by a beautiful beach, the photos you can get here or from the cliff top above are epic.
Spend a day at the beach, have a picnic on the cliff above, or do some stargazing. If you’re hunting for what to do on the south English coast, or planning holidays in the south of England, I highly recommend you visit here.
Enjoy the stunning sea views of the Lulworth Cove Inn for your stay, it’s just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Lulworth Cove.
Windsor
I don’t think I have ever seen a place more stereotypically British than Windsor, I mean there is a castle right in the middle of it. It is one of the best southern English towns if you are looking for something quintessential English
Best known for its royal connection, it’s home to the enchanting Windsor Castle – one of the official residences of the King. It is open to the public and you can tour it at certain times, just check it’s open before you go.
The castle dominates the town and the landscape I could see it for miles from the car before we got there there is so much more to this town. The River Thames runs through the heart of the town, pristine parks are dotted everywhere and the boutique shops are a shopper’s paradise.
It’s a bustling busy place so if like me crowds aren’t your thing get there early. It’s an easy day trip from London and coach loads of tourists arrive daily. However saying that for the culture, history and shopping it’s worth it.
The Castle Hotel Windsor is based opposite the castle and offers unrivaled views of the ‘Changing of the Guards’ procession.
Isles of Scilly
If your ideal places to visit on the south coast of England include somewhere off the beaten path, the Isles of Scilly should top your list. A group of islands off the Cornish Coast they are known for their pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and wonderfully mild climate.
If, like me, you prefer uncrowded places this is the spot for you. Just over 2000 people call this place home and there are five inhabited islands – St. Mary’s, Tresco, St. Martin’s, Bryher, and St. Agnes plus countless uninhabited ones to explore.
You can only arrive by boat, ferry helicopter, or plane. Seal spotting, hiking, island hopping, and seabird watching are among the you can indulge in here.
If the secluded beaches, rugged cliffs, and stunning sunsets aren’t enough to lure you here perhaps the fact that it is never really crowded will.
If you are wondering what to do on the south English coast then maybe give these islands a try.
Located in Hugh Town, St Mary’s Hall Hotel is just one of the many great places to stay when visiting the Isles of Scilly!
Old Harry Rocks
I’m not ashamed to say it, but Old Harry Rocks ranks as one of my absolute favorites. You all know I love a good backdrop and this one is pretty epic.
Part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site these chalk formations located at Handfast Point stand like sentinels guarding the southern English coast. They are best photographed at sunrise from the cliff or a boat or kayak at water level.
The name is believed to be in honor of a famous local pirate (Harry Paye) or the devil! Why the devil? Well, the top of a nearby cliff is known as Old Nick’s Ground which is another name for devil.
There are boat tours out to the rocks and you can hire kayaks. But the way most see it is by foot from the nearby Studland of Swanage.
For me, there is something quite special about this place and I hope you love it as much as I do.
The Grand Hotel Swanage is located just a couple of miles away from the Old Harry Rocks, and benefits from great train links.
Arundel
When I went here I was shocked at how underrated it is. Arundel is a real hidden treasure. Arguably one of my favorite spots for a day trip in south England, I’ve come back to Arundel time after time.
It will be of no surprise if you know me, that the reason love this place so much is the beautifully preserved medieval castle, Arundel Castle, which is open to the public and well worth a visit. The castle dates back to the 11th century and the town seems to unfold from it.
It also has a wonderful cathedral, some incredible boutique shops and eateries, and just such a pleasant and jovial vibe.
It’s one of my go-to places for a quaint English experience, and it could be yours too!
The Norfolk Arms Hotel is under the battlements of Arundel Castle and was built by the 10th Duke of Norfolk.
Coverack
Coverack is one of my favorite places in Cornwall and I’ve been to many. I don’t know what it is about the small fishing village that makes it so special but believe me it is special.
It’s just one of those picture-perfect locations, with white and stone houses, rugged cliffs weathered fishing boats, and flowers that are reminiscent of the Mediterranean. The fish and chip shop by the harbor also has the best chips around.
The cafe allows you to sit and just watch the harbor while drinking a coffee or indulging in an ice cream. I could have honestly sat there for hours. The pace of life is just different here.
There is plenty to do around this area but honestly, I think you will find it hard to leave. One of the prettiest places to visit on the south coast of England.
The Bay Hotel in Coverack has amazing views of the southern England coast and the Coverack harbor.
Seven Sisters
Yes, I am back to more cliffs, I am nothing if not consistent in my love for dramatic landscapes. As the name suggests these are seven white chalk cliffs along the English Channel in South Downs National Park.
If you love raw, untouched beauty that is slightly wild then this is somewhere I highly recommend. The pictures here are perfect, the views incredible and the habitat diverse.
What I enjoy the most about this area are the numerous paths that wind along the cliffs. Exploring these trails is easily one of the best Southern English activities. Each path brings you to a different viewpoint of the white peaks.
There are so many viewpoints but if you want the classic views with all seven cliffs head to the Seaford Head Viewpoint any of the views in the Seven Sisters Country Park are incredible.
Eastbourne is just a 15-minute drive from Seven Sisters and is a perfect seaside town to accompany your trip to see the Seven Sisters. The Grand Hotel offers two award-winning restaurants and sea views.
Scotney Castle
This is another place I find not a lot of people talk about. Perhaps because England has so many castles a lot get left out, but I don’t think you should miss this one out.
This enchanting place marries Gothic architecture with the romantic appeal of a landscaped garden, and for me, it’s beyond beautiful – it’s pure magic.
The castle, set amidst a wild, wooded landscape, has all the fairytale vibes you could wish for. Every time I visit here I love it a little bit more and find a part I had previously missed.
For me, it misses the perfect amount of history, charm, and whimsy to create something rather unique and extraordinary.
If you haven’t visited here before you are in for a real treat.
The Chequers is just under a mile away and is beautifully decorated.
Saint Michael’s Mount
Saint Michael’s Mount, what can I say this place just takes my breath away every time I see it. This beautiful island castle off the coast is one of the best things to do in southern England.
There’s a surreal, dreamlike quality to it, it gives me Arthurian legend vibes. Dating back to the 12th century there is so much history to explore here but make sure you put great footwear on as there are lots of steps, but the view from the top is worth it.
Saint Michael’s Mount is accessed via a causeway at low tide, or by a short boat trip when the tide’s in, which only adds to its magic. the island offers astonishing views of the bay and the mainland.
The closest you can get to stay at Saint Michael’s Mount is staying in Marazion, a sweet little bed and breakfast just thirty yards from the beach.
Canterbury
I wanted to include Canterbury in this list because it is unlike any of the other places I have included. It’s one of the best places to visit in southeast England.
As a lover of history and architecture, I simply couldn’t resist falling in love with this city. With its medieval streets, cobbled pavements, boutique shops, and of course the famous Canterbury Cathedral there is so much to do and see here.
But my personal favorite? The Canterbury Roman Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s Roman roots. A little-known secret, the museum is built around the remains of a Roman townhouse, now preserved in the basement. It gives you an authentic feel of what life might have been like thousands of years ago.
The Dane John Gardens and the Westgate Gardens are well worth a visit if you can pull yourself away from the town which is just so charming.
The Victoria Hotel is set in quaint gardens and is just a 15-minute walk from the center.
I hope you end up loving the south of England as much as I do. And this list is just a start. There are so many beautiful places in southern England to explore beyond this list.
Whether you’re taking a holiday in the south of England or looking for some intriguing day trips in south England, I hope I’ve helped you a little. I hope you have an amazing vacation and please come back and tell me all about it.
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