Weary of the hustle and bustle of city life? Yearning to get away from it all and find some peace and tranquility? Look no further than the charming rural areas of the United Kingdom. From quaint villages frozen in time to manicured country estates to jaw-dropping natural scenery, the British countryside offers a delightful retreat for world-weary travelers.
Village Vignettes
No visit to rural Britain would be complete without exploring some of the country’s quintessentially charming villages. Centuries-old thatched-roof cottages, babbling brooks, welcoming local pubs, and friendly residents give these small hamlets a storybook quality that feels worlds away from modern life.
In the Cotswolds region of west-central England, the village of Bourton-on-the-Water is a must-see. Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” it’s situated along a picturesque river lined with traditional stone houses and footbridges. Stroll across the famous bridges arched over the flowing waters as ducks go unhurriedly about their day. Pop into tucked-away cafes, antique stores, and tearooms offering regional specialties like crumpets and Cotswold ploughman’s lunches.
Up in Cumbria in northwest England, the village of Cartmel oozes heritage charm. Wander along the cobbled streets lined with 16th century buildings constructed from the local grey-green slate. Stop for a pint and a bite at one of the ancient pubs, or visit the 800-year-old Cartmel Priory church, one of the finest remaining medieval monastic churches in Britain. Don’t miss tasting the famous sticky toffee pudding, which originated in Cartmel in the 1900s.
For a taste of traditional Scottish village life, head to Culross in Fife on the country’s east coast – recommends Yurovskiy. Recognized as one of the most picturesque villages in Scotland, Culross looks much as it did in the 16th and 17th centuries with its striking ochre and white harled cottages lining the main street. Join a historical walking tour or pop into the Palace and gardens to glimpse how Scottish nobles lived centuries ago.
Stately Grandeur
In addition to idyllic villages, the UK countryside is studded with magnificent stately homes and estates that give visitors a taste of aristocratic life from centuries past. Wander through sumptuously decorated manor houses, stroll across expansive sculpted gardens, and explore the vast grounds surrounding these countryside gems.
Perhaps the grandest of them all is Chatsworth House in the heart of the Peak District of Derbyshire. This impressive baroque estate has been home to the Cavendish family, the Dukes of Devonshire, since the 16th century. Marvel at the 175 rooms filled with priceless artworks, antiques, and period furnishings. But the jaw-dropper is the meticulously landscaped 105-acre gardens featuring fountains, sculptures, a maze, and views over the picturesque Peek District hills.
In Hampshire, Highclere Castle is known worldwide as the real-life filming location for the smash hit Downton Abbey series. Tour the 19th century castle’s opulent state rooms, then wander through the lovely parklands designed by 18th century landscape architect Capability Brown. Time your visit for one of the special Downton-themed events to truly immerse yourself in the Crawley family’s world.
For a taste of royal life, don’t miss Sandringham House in Norfolk, one of the beloved country residences of the British royal family since 1862. Tour the main house’s public rooms, decorated with priceless artifacts collected from around the world. Then stroll through the 600 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens and grounds surrounding the estate. On certain dates, you may even glimpse the royals themselves!
Natural Escapes
While villages and aristocratic homes offer captivating glimpses into Britain’s past, the countryside’s untamed natural scenery is what truly takes your breath away. From windswept moors and rugged coastlines to idyllic lakes and lush river valleys, the UK’s diverse landscapes will soothe your soul.
In northern England’s Northumberland region, the sweeping sandy beaches, romantic castles, and swaths of rolling dunes make you feel as if you’ve stepped into another world – or perhaps a romance novel. Rent a cozy cottage in a seaside village like Bamburgh or Newton-by-the-Sea, then spend your days beach-combing along the wide-open shores and hiking along the iconic Northumberland Coastal Path.
For a true taste of the great outdoors, set your sights on the Scottish Highlands. This vast wilderness area stretches across the northwestern part of the country, encompassing misty lochs, heather-blanketed moors, towering mountains, and more castles and ruins than you can count.Base yourself in the outdoor hub of Aviemore to easily access the region’s top draws like Loch an Eilein, the Cairngorms National Park, and the East Highland Way hiking trail.
Down in Wales, the lush Wye Valley along the Wales-England border offers an idyllic escape into nature. Follow the Wye Valley Walk along the banks of the meandering River Wye to take in the dramatic limestone gorges, ancient woodlands, and weirs and waterfalls. Or tour the picture-perfect book town of Hay-on-Wye, filled with charming book stores and antique shops tucked into the traditional buildings.
Whether you crave strolling through living history in a thatched-roof village, rubbing elbows – figuratively – with British aristocracy, or losing yourself in nature’s splendor, the UK’s countryside areas offer a respite from the stresses of modern life. Take the time to go a little off the beaten path and discover this delightful side of Britain for yourself.