Here is part two of my article about eleven quintessentially English towns perfect for a short visit. You can read part one here.

Cambridge is not only an ancient university town but also a centre of culture. Here you can walk around King's College, see the famous Chapel and take a boat trip along the River Cam. The best views of the university buildings are from the water. Combined Cambridge University Walking & Punting Tour

Art lovers should visit the Fitzwilliam Museum, which houses masterpieces of painting as well as ancient artefacts. Cambridge also has many parks and gardens where you can relax and enjoy a picnic. One of the most fascinating parts of Cambridge is The Backs, a wide strip of green surrounding the River Cam.

Travel time by train: 1 hour 10 minutes from London.
Travel time by car: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Practical tips: Enjoy a full-day tour to Oxford and Cambridge from London.

Stamford

Stamford is a charming town where history blends seamlessly with its picturesque streets. It boasts a unique mix of medieval and Georgian architecture, and with almost the whole town centre built from yellow Lincolnshire limestone, it has a completely unique feel. Over 600 listed buildings create an atmosphere of stepping back in time. As you walk through Stamford, you’ll come across countless stunning examples of these limestone buildings as well as many historic churches.

One of the town’s top attractions is Burghley House, a grand Elizabethan manor house located on the outskirts. The house and its surrounding parkland give an insight into the rich heritage of the area. And of course, the world-renowned Burghley Horse Trials are held here.

In the heart of Stamford, Stamford Meadows offers a tranquil riverside retreat, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Stamford’s cultural scene is also thriving, with the Stamford Arts Centre hosting theatre performances, film screenings and art exhibitions. The city's bustling market and many independent boutiques and cafes add to its quirky yet vibrant atmosphere.

Travel time by train: 1 hour 30 minutes from London.
Travel time by car: 2 hours.

Practical tips: Book a guided walking tour of Stamford.

Exeter

Exeter is a town where you can feel like a time traveller. Walking through underground tunnels built in the Middle Ages will be a unique experience. Take a scenic cruise along the Exeter Canal, kayak to the popular Double Locks pub by the locks, or hop on a bike and explore the picturesque surroundings along the Exe Estuary Trail. Don’t forget to walk along the bustling cobbled Gandy Street, along the Quayside canal, and take in the eclectic Exeter Cathedral, which combines Norman and Gothic styles and is famous for having the longest vaulted ceiling in the world.

Travel time by train: 2 hours from London.
Travel time by car: 3 hours 30 minutes.

Practical tips: Discover the city's highlights and hidden gems and learn some insider fun facts!

Norwich

Norwich is a city where every corner breathes history. Here you can find an incredible mix of Norman, Medieval, Georgian and Victorian architecture. The Gothic Norwich Cathedral has one of the tallest towers in England and makes an indelible impression. The ancient streets seem to take you back in time.

Thanks to its rich literary heritage and the large number of famous writers who graduated from the local University of East Anglia, Norwich has been included in the list of literary cities of Britain by UNESCO.

But Norwich is not only history. It has a rich cultural life: theaters, art galleries, cozy boutiques and cafes make the city a real discovery for lovers of creativity and art. And Norwich is not only one of the most beautiful cities in England, but the only city located in the heart of a national park.

Travel time by train: 1 hour 46 minutes from London.
Travel time by car: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Practical tips: Explore Norwich’s city centre by the water as you’ve never seen it before.

Worcester

Worcester is a city famous for its famed Worcester sauce, but its cultural heritage goes much deeper. Worcester Cathedral is impressive both for its architecture and its history – King John is buried here.

The city also has strong links with music, being the birthplace of the great composer Edward Elgar. There are plenty of interesting landmarks and historic buildings to explore, including several historic pubs such as the Cardinal’s Hat (order the shepherd’s pie, you won’t regret it!), the Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum, all housed in an elegant Victorian building, and numerous medieval and Tudor timber buildings such as the Commandery, Greyfriars and the Tudor House Museum.

Walks along the River Severn, local markets and historic streets all add to Worcester’s unique charm.

Travel time by train: 2 hours 5 minutes from London.
Travel time by car: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Practical tips: Experience the wild side of England with a full-day tour to West Midland Safari Park.

Here is the part one:

Oxford, Winchester, Chester, York, Canterbury and Bath

These charming English towns are perfect for day trips, each one full of history, culture and picturesque scenery. Whether you travel by train or by car, each visit will give you a unique experience and a chance to see the real England.

If you wish, I can help you plan an unforgettable trip to these towns or include them in one of my ready-made itineraries so that you can enjoy all the unique beauty and history they offer. Let me make your trip to England as comfortable and rich as possible!