Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to England (Plus, Itineraries)

Embarking on a Look-See trip is a crucial step before deciding to move to England. It allows you to experience the culture, explore different regions, and understand the cost of living. This firsthand experience is invaluable in helping you make an informed decision about where to settle.

Recommended Itineraries

For a 10-day trip, consider starting in London, then head to Oxford and the Cotswolds, followed by Bath and Bristol. For a 20-day trip, include the above plus York and the Yorkshire Dales, Manchester, and the coastal towns of Brighton and Cornwall. These itineraries blend vibrant cities with charming towns and scenic regions.

London

London, the capital city, is a bustling metropolis with a population of around 9 million. It offers a diverse range of cultures, a thriving job market, and numerous entertainment options. Despite the high cost of living, many expats and digital nomads appreciate the city's energy and opportunities. Life in London is fast-paced and always exciting.

Travel Tip: Visit the Borough Market for a taste of London's culinary scene, and don't miss the iconic British Museum.

Oxford and the Cotswolds

Oxford, known for its prestigious university, offers a blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. The Cotswolds region, including towns like Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Broadway, is famous for its picturesque villages and rolling hills. The is lower than London, and the quality of life is high. This region is perfect for those seeking a balance between city life and rural charm.

Travel Tip: Dine at The Eagle and Child pub in Oxford, where J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis frequently met, and visit the quaint village of Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds.

Bath and Bristol

Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture. Nearby Bristol is a vibrant city with a thriving arts and music scene. Both cities offer a lower cost of living compared to London. Bath is ideal for those who enjoy history and culture, while Bristol appeals to those seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle.

Travel Tip: Visit the Roman Baths in Bath and explore the street art in Bristol, including works by the famous artist Banksy.

York and the Yorkshire Dales

York, a historic city with a rich Viking heritage, offers a high quality of life and a reasonable cost of living. The Yorkshire Dales, including towns like Harrogate and Skipton, provide stunning landscapes and a peaceful rural lifestyle. This region is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a slower pace of life.

Travel Tip: Explore The Shambles, a well-preserved medieval street in York, and visit the Wensleydale Creamery in the Yorkshire Dales for a taste of local cheese.

Manchester

Manchester is a major city known for its industrial heritage, sports culture, and vibrant music scene. With a lower cost of living than London, it's an attractive option for expats and digital nomads. The city offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of entertainment options and a growing job market.

Travel Tip: Visit the National Football Museum and dine at one of the many trendy eateries in the Northern Quarter.

Brighton

Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its diverse community, arts scene, and beautiful beach. It's a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed seaside lifestyle while still having access to city amenities. The cost of living is lower than London, but the quality of life is high.

Travel Tip: Explore the Royal Pavilion, an exotic palace built as a seaside pleasure palace for King George IV, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.

Cornwall

Cornwall, a county on England’s rugged southwestern tip, is known for its stunning coastline, quaint fishing villages, and mild climate. Towns like St. Ives, Padstow, and Falmouth offer a relaxed pace of life and a lower cost of living. This region is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a scenic environment.

Travel Tip: Visit the Eden Project, a massive greenhouse complex housing plants from around the world, and enjoy a traditional Cornish pasty from one of the local bakeries.