England
England, the largest country in the United Kingdom, is a land of rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the iconic landmarks of London to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and the dramatic cliffs of Cornwall, England offers a perfect blend of heritage and modern charm. Whether exploring medieval castles, indulging in traditional afternoon tea, or discovering lively cities and quaint villages, visitors are sure to be captivated by England’s timeless appeal.
Highlights
- Big Ben & The Houses of Parliament
Towering over the River Thames, Big Ben is one of London’s most iconic symbols, officially known as the Elizabeth Tower. The adjoining Houses of Parliament, with their striking Gothic architecture, have been the heart of British politics for centuries, housing both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Admire the grandeur of Westminster Palace from the outside or take guided tours to explore the historic chambers and learn about the UK’s political system. At night, the illuminated clock face of Big Ben creates a grand sight against the London skyline.
- Buckingham Palace
The official residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace stands as a symbol of royal heritage and grandeur. Its 775 rooms include lavish State Rooms, grand halls, and exquisite gardens. Visitors flock to its gates daily to witness the Changing of the Guard, a time-honored ceremony where the King’s Guard, dressed in traditional red tunics and bearskin hats, performs a meticulously choreographed handover. The Mall, the grand avenue leading up to the palace, is often the scene of royal celebrations and processions.
- The Tower of London & Tower Bridge
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Tower of London has a fascinating history as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. Over the centuries, it has housed famous prisoners, including Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes, and is now home to the dazzling Crown Jewels, guarded by the iconic Yeoman Warders, or Beefeaters. Walk through its ancient walls, hear chilling tales of its past, and even spot the legendary ravens, believed to protect the fortress. Just nearby, Tower Bridge impresses with its Victorian engineering and twin bascules that lift to allow ships to pass. The bridge’s glass-floored walkway offers panoramic views over the Thames and the city beyond.
- The British Museum
One of the world’s greatest museums, the British Museum boasts a vast collection of historical treasures from across the globe. Its highlights include the Rosetta Stone, which unlocked the secrets of Egyptian hieroglyphs; the Elgin Marbles, stunning sculptures from the Parthenon in Athens; and an impressive array of mummies from ancient Egypt. Spanning over two million years of history, the museum offers a journey through human civilization, from Mesopotamian artifacts to Japanese samurai armor.
- West End & Covent Garden
The beating heart of London’s entertainment district, the West End dazzles with world-class theater productions, from record-breaking musicals like Les Misérables and The Lion King to thought-provoking plays starring renowned actors. The district is also home to Leicester Square, where film premieres take place, and bustling Chinatown, filled with delicious eateries. Just a short stroll away, Covent Garden is a lively hub with a mix of boutique shops, charming cafés, and luxury brands. The historic market building is filled with artisan stalls, while the surrounding streets come alive with talented street performers, drawing crowds with their acrobatics, music, and magic acts.
Towering over the River Thames, Big Ben is one of London’s most iconic symbols, officially known as the Elizabeth Tower. The adjoining Houses of Parliament, with their striking Gothic architecture, have been the heart of British politics for centuries, housing both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Admire the grandeur of Westminster Palace from the outside or take guided tours to explore the historic chambers and learn about the UK’s political system. At night, the illuminated clock face of Big Ben creates a grand sight against the London skyline.
The official residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace stands as a symbol of royal heritage and grandeur. Its 775 rooms include lavish State Rooms, grand halls, and exquisite gardens. Visitors flock to its gates daily to witness the Changing of the Guard, a time-honored ceremony where the King’s Guard, dressed in traditional red tunics and bearskin hats, performs a meticulously choreographed handover. The Mall, the grand avenue leading up to the palace, is often the scene of royal celebrations and processions.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Tower of London has a fascinating history as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. Over the centuries, it has housed famous prisoners, including Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes, and is now home to the dazzling Crown Jewels, guarded by the iconic Yeoman Warders, or Beefeaters. Walk through its ancient walls, hear chilling tales of its past, and even spot the legendary ravens, believed to protect the fortress. Just nearby, Tower Bridge impresses with its Victorian engineering and twin bascules that lift to allow ships to pass. The bridge’s glass-floored walkway offers panoramic views over the Thames and the city beyond.
One of the world’s greatest museums, the British Museum boasts a vast collection of historical treasures from across the globe. Its highlights include the Rosetta Stone, which unlocked the secrets of Egyptian hieroglyphs; the Elgin Marbles, stunning sculptures from the Parthenon in Athens; and an impressive array of mummies from ancient Egypt. Spanning over two million years of history, the museum offers a journey through human civilization, from Mesopotamian artifacts to Japanese samurai armor.
The beating heart of London’s entertainment district, the West End dazzles with world-class theater productions, from record-breaking musicals like Les Misérables and The Lion King to thought-provoking plays starring renowned actors. The district is also home to Leicester Square, where film premieres take place, and bustling Chinatown, filled with delicious eateries. Just a short stroll away, Covent Garden is a lively hub with a mix of boutique shops, charming cafés, and luxury brands. The historic market building is filled with artisan stalls, while the surrounding streets come alive with talented street performers, drawing crowds with their acrobatics, music, and magic acts.Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to England? See everything you need to know before you go.
| Overview | Capital: London |
| Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
| Staying Healthy | There are no health precautions or requirements to enter England. Food and tap water are safe to consume. |
| Weather | Known for its frequent rainfall, London's climate ranges from average temperatures of 43° F in January to 72° F in July. Temperatures are cooler in May and October and warmer June-September. August can be very hot and humid. Take along an umbrella and sweater no matter when you go. |
| Tipping | In restaurants and taxis, tip anywhere from 10-15% (12.5% is the norm). Some establishments include a service charge on the bill, so be sure to check first. Tipping at counter-service establishments, such as pubs, is optional, but always appreciated. |
| Money & Credit Cards | ATMs can be found throughout the city and are generally accessible 24 hours a day. Travelers can typically get the best exchange rate by withdrawing pounds at ATMs. Contactless payment is widely accepted throughout England, including on the London Underground (Tube) and buses, where you can simply tap a contactless credit or debit card, or a mobile wallet such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, to pay your fare without purchasing a separate ticket. Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
| Shopping | London is world renowned for its shopping. From world-famous department stores such as Harrods to its lively street markets, there is something for everybody. Designer stores, national chaings, and specialized boutiques can be found along Bond Street, Oxford Street, and Kensington High Street. Booklovers and antique hounds will delight in the search for treasures in the shops that line Charing Cross Road. |
| Electricity & Power Adapters | 240 volts. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
| Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
| Did you know? |
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Tours & Packages
- Destinations: England
- including closed packages
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