England Travel Guide

From the rolling hills and castles of the countryside to the vibrant cities of London and Manchester, England strikes a perfect balance between history and modern life. Pubs steeped in tradition, world-class museums, football culture, a legendary music scene, and royal heritage come together to create an experience rich in character and British charm.

Top cities to visit

  • Nighttime view of Westminster Palace and Big Ben in London, glowing along the River Thames.

    London

    London is a captivating world city where British tradition meets global influences. From iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster, and Tower Bridge on the Thames to the vibrant districts of Soho and Shoreditch, the United Kingdom’s capital shines with cosmopolitan flair and royal elegance.
  • View of Chamberlain Square in Birmingham, featuring its memorial fountain and Birmingham Town Hall at sunset.

    Birmingham

    In the heart of the Midlands, Birmingham combines industrial heritage with modern flair. Along the revitalized canals, former red-brick warehouses now house coffee shops and galleries. Chamberlain Square reflects its Victorian charm, whereas the Central Library symbolizes the city’s urban renewal.
  • Neo-Gothic Manchester Town Hall in England, dominated by its clock tower and surrounded by greenery.

    Manchester

    With its cobblestone streets, canals, and repurposed red-brick warehouses, Manchester still bears the marks of its industrial past. Home to legendary football club Manchester United and an iconic music scene, this laid-back city stands out as a must-see destination in northern England.
  • Ruins of the medieval Kirkstall Abbey in Leeds, England, surrounded by greenery at sunset.

    Leeds

    A lively city in Yorkshire, Leeds invites visitors to explore the gardens of its historic estates and Kirkgate Market, the largest covered market in Europe. Between Briggate’s shopping streets, Headingley’s lively pubs, Roundhay Park, and the iconic Elland Road stadium, there is something for everyone.
  • Life-size statues of The Beatles at Pier Head in Liverpool with the Royal Liver Building in the background.

    Liverpool

    Birthplace of The Beatles and a UNESCO City of Music, Liverpool charms visitors with its maritime heritage, street art, and vibrant energy. Explore the waterfront and the Royal Albert Dock, attend a football match at the Anfield Stadium, and enjoy an evening in a lively pub.
  • Nighttime view of Westminster Palace and Big Ben in London, glowing along the River Thames.

    London

    London is a captivating world city where British tradition meets global influences. From iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster, and Tower Bridge on the Thames to the vibrant districts of Soho and Shoreditch, the United Kingdom’s capital shines with cosmopolitan flair and royal elegance.
  • View of Chamberlain Square in Birmingham, featuring its memorial fountain and Birmingham Town Hall at sunset.

    Birmingham

    In the heart of the Midlands, Birmingham combines industrial heritage with modern flair. Along the revitalized canals, former red-brick warehouses now house coffee shops and galleries. Chamberlain Square reflects its Victorian charm, whereas the Central Library symbolizes the city’s urban renewal.
  • Neo-Gothic Manchester Town Hall in England, dominated by its clock tower and surrounded by greenery.

    Manchester

    With its cobblestone streets, canals, and repurposed red-brick warehouses, Manchester still bears the marks of its industrial past. Home to legendary football club Manchester United and an iconic music scene, this laid-back city stands out as a must-see destination in northern England.
  • Ruins of the medieval Kirkstall Abbey in Leeds, England, surrounded by greenery at sunset.

    Leeds

    A lively city in Yorkshire, Leeds invites visitors to explore the gardens of its historic estates and Kirkgate Market, the largest covered market in Europe. Between Briggate’s shopping streets, Headingley’s lively pubs, Roundhay Park, and the iconic Elland Road stadium, there is something for everyone.
  • Life-size statues of The Beatles at Pier Head in Liverpool with the Royal Liver Building in the background.

    Liverpool

    Birthplace of The Beatles and a UNESCO City of Music, Liverpool charms visitors with its maritime heritage, street art, and vibrant energy. Explore the waterfront and the Royal Albert Dock, attend a football match at the Anfield Stadium, and enjoy an evening in a lively pub.

Useful information

Official language(s)

English is the official language of the country. 

The British accent and vocabulary differ from North American English. For example, you order “chips” instead of “fries”—a small linguistic nuance that often brings a smile to locals. 

Flight duration

Direct flight: approximately 7h 
Connecting flight: 11h to 15h (depending on connections times) 

Time zone difference

England time zone: UTC+0 (winter) and UTC+1 (summer) 
5h ahead of Quebec (EST) 
4h ahead of Quebec (EDT) 

Currency

Pound sterling (£/GBP) 

Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) are widely accepted. It’s still useful to carry some cash for small purchases, tips, and pub visits. 

Tips

In England, tipping 10%–15% in restaurants is customary if service is not included. For taxis, fares are usually rounded up, or 10%–15% is added for particularly good service. In hotels, £2 is sufficient for porters. When in doubt, a 10% tip is always appreciated. 

Safety

In major cities, stay alert to avoid theft and scams. Driving is on the left and requires extra attention. Be sure to follow speed limits and look the right way before crossing the street. 

Before any foreign trip, visit the Government of Canada’s United Kingdom Travel Advice page to find out about the current situation in the country. 

Top things to do and see

  • Visit landmarks of the British monarchy in London.

  • Explore Stonehenge.

  • Hike in Lake District National Park.

  • Discover the university cities of Oxford and Cambridge.

  • Dive into The Beatles’ history in Liverpool.

Hidden gems to discover

  • Bourton-on-the-Water

    With its honey-coloured stone cottages and flower-lined bridges crossing the River Windrush, Bourton-on-the-Water looks like it is straight out of an English fairytale. Nicknamed the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” it is considered one of England’s most beautiful villages. 

  • Stratford-upon-Avon

    Shakespeare’s hometown, Stratford-upon-Avon lies along the River Avon. Its half-timbered homes, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, and English gardens combine medieval charm with a bustling cultural scene, making it a must-visit for British literature and history lovers. 

  • Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

    A UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the world’s largest collection of plant species, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew offer a fascinating journey into the heart of nature. Victorian glasshouses, centuries-old trees, and more than 50,000 plants create a breathtaking living landscape. 

  • The Jurassic Coast

    The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that ranks among England’s most beautiful coastlines. More than 155 km of striking landscapes unfold—white cliffs, natural stone arches, and golden beaches. Formed over 185 million years, this shoreline is home to natural wonders like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. 

  • Bourton-on-the-Water

    With its honey-coloured stone cottages and flower-lined bridges crossing the River Windrush, Bourton-on-the-Water looks like it is straight out of an English fairytale. Nicknamed the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” it is considered one of England’s most beautiful villages. 

  • Stratford-upon-Avon

    Shakespeare’s hometown, Stratford-upon-Avon lies along the River Avon. Its half-timbered homes, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, and English gardens combine medieval charm with a bustling cultural scene, making it a must-visit for British literature and history lovers. 

  • Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

    A UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the world’s largest collection of plant species, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew offer a fascinating journey into the heart of nature. Victorian glasshouses, centuries-old trees, and more than 50,000 plants create a breathtaking living landscape. 

  • The Jurassic Coast

    The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that ranks among England’s most beautiful coastlines. More than 155 km of striking landscapes unfold—white cliffs, natural stone arches, and golden beaches. Formed over 185 million years, this shoreline is home to natural wonders like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. 

Highlights

  • Exceptional historic and architectural heritage includes castles, palaces, and world-famous universities. 
  • London is home to some of the world’s best museums and theatres, many of them free. 
  • The English countryside is stunning: lush rolling hills, peaceful lakes, and spectacular cliffs. 

Keep in mind

  • Travel costs can be high in England, especially in London. Compare accommodations and use transport passes or combined attraction tickets to save money. 
  • The weather can change quickly throughout the day, so dress in layers and carry a compact umbrella. 
Top pick

“London was a true love at first sight, and I dream of going back! I loved everything—from the rich symbolism of the British monarchy and its traditions to the fascinating stories around every corner and the city’s unique atmosphere. Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London left a lasting impression, and the warmth of the Londoners made the experience even more special.”

Marylou ClavetTravel Counsellor, Québec Travel Centre (Sainte-Foy)

Local food and gastronomy

  • Fish and chips

    Golden and crispy on the outside, soft and flaky on the inside, fish and chips pair a lightly battered fish fillet with golden fries, mushy peas, and tartar sauce. Served in pubs or as a takeaway favourite, it is a true classic of English cuisine. 

  • Full English Breakfast

    A true British institution, the Full English Breakfast is a hearty plate that includes fried eggs, crispy bacon, sausages, baked beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast. Served with tea or coffee, it’s the perfect way to start the day like a local. 

  • Cheddar and Stilton cheeses

    These two cheeses perfectly showcase the richness of England’s culinary heritage. Firm in texture, cheddar offers a bold flavour with nutty notes that deepen with age. Stilton, crumbly and creamy, delights blue cheese lovers with its veined interior and refined, intense taste. 

  • Victoria Sponge Cake

    Victoria Sponge Cake is a beloved British classic known for its light texture and delicate sweetness. Filled with red fruit jam and whipped cream, it is typically dusted with icing sugar and served during afternoon tea. 

  • Afternoon tea

    Afternoon tea is a cherished British tradition, enjoyed between 3 and 5p.m. Served on a three-tier stand, it includes savoury sandwiches (bottom), scones (middle), and pastries (top), accompanied by tea—often Earl Grey or English Breakfast. 

  • Fish and chips

    Golden and crispy on the outside, soft and flaky on the inside, fish and chips pair a lightly battered fish fillet with golden fries, mushy peas, and tartar sauce. Served in pubs or as a takeaway favourite, it is a true classic of English cuisine. 

  • Full English Breakfast

    A true British institution, the Full English Breakfast is a hearty plate that includes fried eggs, crispy bacon, sausages, baked beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast. Served with tea or coffee, it’s the perfect way to start the day like a local. 

  • Cheddar and Stilton cheeses

    These two cheeses perfectly showcase the richness of England’s culinary heritage. Firm in texture, cheddar offers a bold flavour with nutty notes that deepen with age. Stilton, crumbly and creamy, delights blue cheese lovers with its veined interior and refined, intense taste. 

  • Victoria Sponge Cake

    Victoria Sponge Cake is a beloved British classic known for its light texture and delicate sweetness. Filled with red fruit jam and whipped cream, it is typically dusted with icing sugar and served during afternoon tea. 

  • Afternoon tea

    Afternoon tea is a cherished British tradition, enjoyed between 3 and 5p.m. Served on a three-tier stand, it includes savoury sandwiches (bottom), scones (middle), and pastries (top), accompanied by tea—often Earl Grey or English Breakfast. 

Good to know

  • Driving in England is on the left, and car steering wheels are on the right.
  • In pubs, ordering is usually done at the bar rather than at the table.
  • Brits strictly respect queues in shops, on buses, and in subway stations.

What to bring back?

  • A fine porcelain tea set

  • A Paddington Bear souvenir

  • A Beatles-themed souvenir

  • English marmalade

  • A fine porcelain tea set

  • A Paddington Bear souvenir

  • A Beatles-themed souvenir

  • English marmalade

  • A fine porcelain tea set

  • A Paddington Bear souvenir

  • A Beatles-themed souvenir

  • English marmalade

Frequently asked questions

The best time to visit England is from May to September. Temperatures are pleasant, landscapes are stunning, and cities come alive with festivals and outdoor activities.  

The rest of the year also has its charm, although weather is cooler and rain more frequent. 

In England, trains are the most efficient way to travel between cities. Public transportation such as buses and subways is reliable and affordable for urban travel. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the countryside, although drivers should remember that driving is on the left and ensure proper insurance coverage. 

10 to 12 days. 
This duration allows for an in-depth visit of London along with trips to England’s iconic destinations, like Stonehenge, Bath, Liverpool, York, the Cotswolds, and the Lake District. 

  • Glastonbury Festival, held in Pilton, Somerset, in late June, is one of the world’s largest music and arts festivals. Its atmosphere is truly unique, blending live music by international artists with art, performances, and temporary campsite installations. The festival draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, and tickets sell out quickly. 

  • Trooping the Colour, held in London in June, is one of the UK’s most iconic events. Celebrating the official birthday of the British monarch, it features a grand military parade with more than 1400 soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians marching through the streets. Arriving early is recommended to get a good spot. 

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Getting ready for your trip

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The world is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. After exploring the beauty of England, let yourself be captivated by new places that promise unforgettable experiences.