England's Special Places
England benefits from a rich history and evidence of this wealth of history can be found in many English villages, towns and cities. If you are interested in visiting some truly special places, there are some truly inspirational and fascinating places in the UK. Of course different people find different things special. For some, certain areas of the English countryside are truly inspirational whereas others find the coastline simply sublime. Others still fall in love with historical places and for us it is these historical places that make up some of England's inspirational special places.
Our Selection of Special Places in England
Stonehenge
Stonehenge in Wiltshire is a UNESCO recognised site and this large stone circle has the ability to capture the imagination of visitors. Although visitors can't get up close and personal with the stone circle nowadays, it is still an inspiring place, set in unspoilt countryside close to Salisbury with a sense of magic about it.
May be it's the mystery that still surrounds the stones, no one knows for definite what their purpose was or just the sense of soulfulness it emits, but this ancient prehistoric stone circle is definitely one of England's special places. Some believe that the stone circle is where people were buried, others for sun worship, some say it was a place of sacrifice and worship whereas others speculate that it was a healing centre. Visit to find out which story you believe.
Perhaps the best time to visit if you are a spiritual person is at Summer Solstice where druids and other spiritual groups visit this sacred place to celebrate the arrival of summer.
Bath
Bath in Somerset is a city with that special something. Home to England's best preserved and most impressive Roman remains, the sense of history present in this small city helps make it a truly special place. What's more, we aren't the only ones who think so as the City of Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of the quality and importance of the historical buildings present in this city.
Reputed to be one of Europe's finest city there is a wealth of fantastic architecture and historical buildings in Bath including Palladian style buildings as best evidenced at Bath's Royal Crescent
Hadrian's Wall Northumbria
Those with a fascination for Roman history and a love of the English countryside should adore Northumbria. Officially a recognised UNESCO heritage site, Hadrian's Wall Country is a unique part of England. Visit National Trust and English Heritage protected sites and learn more about the Romans including how far they established their presence in the UK and be amazed at some sensational landscapes.
Learn why the Romans built this wall effectively separating England from Scotland and remember to pack your hiking boots as this is hilly country and you'll need sturdy shoes! There is much hill-walking to enjoy in Hadrian's Wall Country. Keen walkers will want to explore Hadrian's Wall National Trail, most of which runs alongside Hadrian's Wall.
Sunsets in this part of England can also be sensational, adding to the uniqueness of Northumbria, be sure to pack you camera and get some fantastic snapshots!
The above is our view of England's special places. If though for you, the countryside is special, see our resources on the best of England's countryside. Or alternatively if you simply adore the coastline see our best of England's coastline section for inspiration and information.
|