Map Of Southern England Counties
Introduction
Southern England is a beautiful and diverse region that offers something for every type of traveler. From the bustling cities of London and Bristol to the picturesque countryside of the Cotswolds and the stunning coastline of Cornwall, there is no shortage of things to see and do. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports of the Map Of Southern England Counties.
Top Attractions
London
London is a must-see destination for any traveler to Southern England. Visit the iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace. Take a ride on the London Eye for panoramic views of the city. Explore the British Museum and the Tate Modern for world-class art and history. And don’t forget to experience the vibrant food and nightlife scene in neighborhoods like Soho and Camden.
Bath
Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture. Take a dip in the natural hot springs at the Thermae Bath Spa, visit the Jane Austen Centre, and explore the beautiful Royal Crescent and Circus.
Oxford
Oxford is a charming university town that boasts stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history. Take a tour of the world-famous Oxford University, visit the Ashmolean Museum, and take a stroll through the Botanic Garden.
Hidden Gems
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is a picturesque region of rolling hills, quaint villages, and stunning countryside. Visit the charming market town of Chipping Campden, explore the gardens at Hidcote Manor, and take a stroll through the beautiful village of Bourton-on-the-Water.
The Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches 95 miles along the southern coast of England. Explore the stunning cliffs and beaches, search for fossils, and visit historic towns like Lyme Regis and Weymouth.
The New Forest
The New Forest is a beautiful national park that is home to wild ponies, ancient forests, and stunning landscapes. Take a cycle ride through the forest, go horseback riding, or simply enjoy a picnic in the beautiful surroundings.
Food Scene
Southern England is home to some of the best food in the country, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional dishes. Try the famous Cornish pasty in Cornwall, indulge in afternoon tea in Bath, and sample the delicious seafood in Brighton.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget in Southern England is possible with a little planning. Stay in budget-friendly accommodation like hostels or Airbnb, take advantage of public transport options like buses and trains, and look for free activities like walking tours and museum visits.
Outdoor Adventures
Southern England is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, water sports, and more. Explore the beautiful trails in the South Downs National Park, go surfing in Newquay, or take a kayaking tour of the Jurassic Coast.
Family-Friendly Activities
Southern England is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Visit the interactive exhibitions at the Science Museum in London, explore the underwater world at the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth, or take a ride on the famous steam train at the West Somerset Railway.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. Visit the beautiful sandy beaches at Shanklin and Sandown, explore the historic Osborne House, and take a ride on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
Winchester
Winchester is a historic city that is often overshadowed by nearby Southampton. Visit the beautiful Winchester Cathedral, explore the medieval streets, and take a tour of the Winchester City Mill.
Natural Wonders
Durdle Door
Durdle Door is a natural limestone arch that is one of the most iconic landmarks on the Jurassic Coast. Take a hike along the beautiful coastal path for stunning views of the arch and the surrounding cliffs.
The Needles
The Needles is a stunning rock formation that is located on the western tip of the Isle of Wight. Take a boat tour to see the rocks up close, or explore the nearby Alum Bay with its colorful sands.
Vibrant Nightlife
Southern England has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a focus on live music, theater, and comedy. Catch a show in London’s West End, enjoy a drink in the trendy bars of Bristol’s Clifton neighborhood, or dance the night away in Brighton’s famous clubs.
Local Markets
Southern England is home to some of the best local markets in the country, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Visit the famous Borough Market in London, explore the vintage stalls at Bristol’s St Nicholas Market, or try the delicious street food at Plymouth’s Royal William Yard.
Beaches and Mountains
Cornwall
Cornwall is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, with stunning surf and dramatic cliffs. Visit the famous Fistral Beach in Newquay, explore the hidden coves of St Ives, or take a hike along the coastal path for breathtaking views.
The Brecon Beacons
The Brecon Beacons is a mountain range in South Wales that offers some of the best hiking and outdoor adventures in the country. Explore the beautiful waterfalls at Ystradfellte, take a horseback ride through the mountains, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery.
Cultural Immersion
Southern England is rich in culture and history, with plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in local traditions and customs. Visit the beautiful Bath Christmas Market, explore the historic streets of Canterbury, or take part in the traditional Morris dancing in Oxfordshire.
Art and Music Scene
Southern England has a thriving arts scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. Visit the famous Tate St Ives in Cornwall, explore the street art in Bristol’s Stokes Croft neighborhood, or catch a live performance at the Brighton Dome.
Walking Tours
Southern England is full of historic cities and beautiful countryside that are best explored on foot. Take a walking tour of the historic city of Bath, explore the beautiful villages of the Cotswolds, or hike along the stunning coastal path of the Jurassic Coast.
Architectural Marvels
Salisbury Cathedral
Salisbury Cathedral is a stunning example of medieval architecture, with the tallest spire in the country. Visit the cathedral to see the beautiful stained glass windows, explore the cloisters, and climb to the top of the spire for panoramic views of the city.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
The Clifton Suspension Bridge is a famous landmark in Bristol that spans the Avon Gorge. Take a walk across the bridge for stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Historical Sites
The Tower of London
The Tower of London is a historic castle that has served as a royal palace, a prison, and a fortress over the centuries. Visit the castle to see the Crown Jewels, explore the White Tower, and learn about the history of the Tower and its famous prisoners.
Stonehenge
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument that is shrouded in mystery and legend. Visit the site to see the iconic standing stones, explore the visitor center, and learn about the history and significance of this ancient site.
Biking Routes
Southern England is full of beautiful cycling routes that take you through stunning countryside and historic towns. Take a bike ride along the Kennet and Avon Canal, explore the Wiltshire Downs, or cycle along the beautiful Tarka Trail in Devon.
Wellness Retreats
Southern England is a great destination for wellness retreats, with plenty of options for yoga, meditation, and spa treatments. Visit the beautiful Golden Door Spa in Bath, join a yoga class in the New Forest, or take a wellness retreat at the stunning Champneys Tring in Hertfordshire.
Adventure Sports
Southern England is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts, with plenty of options for adrenaline-f