When you think of England as a travel destination, chances are that history is one of the first things that spring to mind. Towering medieval castles atop coastal cliffs, centuries-old churches with ornate architecture, and spectacular palaces that have housed monarchs for hundreds of years are commonplace in the historic English cities around the country.
Even older is the prehistoric monument Stonehenge, the purpose of which baffles historians to this day. From the country’s capital, London, to the Viking stronghold York, discover 5 amazing historic English cities that are a must-visit in 2023.
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London has been the capital for centuries
The official capital of England for almost 1,000 years, it is unsurprising that London scoops the top spot for the country’s most important historic city. Head to Westminster to see the most majestic buildings, including the riverside Houses of Parliament and awe-inspiring Westminster Abbey where royals and other notable English figures are entombed. Buckingham Palace, the official royal residence, is close by, while the crown jewels can be viewed at the Tower of London which stands as a reminder of some of the city’s most gruesome heritage. Those with time to spare can catch a train to the outskirts of London to explore Hampton Court, the expansive home of Tudor ruler Henry VIII.
One of the most historic English cities is Canterbury
Canterbury has a long history stretching back to the Roman era and was a very important city during the medieval period. Since its inception in 597 AD, Canterbury Cathedral has been a key pilgrimage site for Christians from around the world. To this day, visitors arrive from around the globe, drawn not only by the elaborate Gothic and Romanesque architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows but also by its rich history.
It was on this site that the Magna Carta was planned, and where Archbishop Thomas Becket was famously murdered in the 12th century. Protected by medieval walls and covered in cobblestones, Canterbury itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a joy to explore.
Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage site
Located on the other side of the country, close to Bristol in the West Country, Bath is another UNESCO World Heritage Site that is unmissable for history lovers visiting England. Of most importance is its ancient Roman bath complex which is 2,000 years old and where you can still bathe in natural hot springs that are thought to have healing and well-being properties.
Further exploration of the city will transport you into the world of Jane Austen as the buildings around you have barely changed since the Georgian era. Particularly striking are the vast semi-circular Royal Crescent and the 360-degree Circle, and the opulent Assembly Rooms. Bath also boasts a medieval abbey where the first king of a united England, King Edgar, was crowned in the mid-10th century.
York is steeped in ancient history
Head further north into the centre of Yorkshire and you will discover York, a compact city that is bursting with heritage. From its Roman roots, it became the capital of the Kingdom of Northumbria in the early medieval period before being captured by Norsemen in the 9th century. Following this, York was a Viking stronghold for a century, and a community of Norse people lived peacefully alongside Anglo-Saxons under a protected area called Danelaw. Tourists can discover all the details of Vikings in York at the incredible interactive museum Jorvik Viking Centre.
Also of note here is the majestic 13th-century cathedral, York Minster, which is as spectacular on the inside as on the outside, and the medieval walls which encircle the city. Visitors will also love a stroll down The Shambles, a winding cobblestone street lined by Tudor buildings which is so unique and characterful that it inspired the film set for Diagon Alley in the world-renowned Harry Potter films. For those who are not afraid of fright, York Dungeon tells the history of the city in 10 immersive live-action performances complete with costumes and special effects.
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Oxford is the birthplace of English literary greats
This striking and restful city in central southern England is known all over the world for its highly prestigious university that was established in the 1300s. Comprised of 38 colleges, the university campus makes up the bulk of the city’s medieval quarter, and the sensational design of these buildings gave Oxford the poetic name ‘City of Dreaming Spires’. This nickname is fitting for a place that has inspired some of the greatest minds in English history, from writers J. R. R. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis to the ground-breaking theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking. Visitors to the city can explore the university campus – you are guaranteed to be blown away by its beauty and magnificence.
Did we miss out on any historic English cities?
We’d love to hear from you if we missed out on your favourite or if we didn’t include any English cities that have strong historical significance. Drop us an email or leave a comment to let us know.
