I recently traveled to London and the English countryside with two of my fellow Avenue Two Travel advisors, and I was impressed by how much England offers in a single itinerary.

It’s so easy to pair the energy of London with the peaceful charm of the countryside. Within two hours, you can step out of the fast-paced rhythm of the city and into storybook villages, rolling green hills, and historic estates.

We visited in late winter, just as England was beginning to wake up for spring. Crocuses, snowdrops, and daffodils were popping up across fields and gardens. England is known for its stunning gardens, and while spring is when they truly shine, even February offered a glimpse at the blooms to come.

Here are a few highlights of my iconic London experiences paired with slower moments in the countryside.

*The start of our London itinerary began with views of Big Ben*

London Recap: A City With So Much To See

London is loved by many, and for good reason! The sprawling city is made up of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality, history, and charm.

What makes London so special is its balance. It blends traditional “old England” with an ever-evolving, modern edge. You’ll find classic architecture alongside contemporary design, vintage shops next to the latest fashion trends, and world-renowned art near modern galleries. You can spend an evening in the West End enjoying a classic theatre production and then dive into newly created fringe performances. Step into historic pubs once frequented by writers and changemakers, then contrast that with London’s dynamic culinary scene. London is a city with so much culture and creativity.

This variety makes London a great city for repeat travelers. You could visit over and over and have a completely different experience each time.

London Is A Great Location For Multi-Generational Travel

While rooted in British tradition, London is one of the most diverse and international cities in the world. It’s a cultural melting pot, where you can experience global food, art, and heritage all in one place.

For families traveling abroad for the first time, London is a great introduction. There’s no language barrier, it’s easy to navigate, and there are plenty of direct flights. You can introduce children to that exciting international feel while still being approachable and familiar.

*When the Union Jack (GB flag) is flying at Buckingham Palace, the King is not in residence.*

Iconic London Experiences You Can’t Miss

London offers something for everyone, and together we can build an itinerary tailored to your specific interests, but there are a few iconic highlights always worth including.

Buckingham Palace & St. James’s Park

We stopped by Buckingham Palace to see if the King was in. Fun fact: you can tell if the monarch is in residence by looking at the flag above the palace. If it’s a standard Union Jack instead of the Royal Standard flag, that means the king is away.

While we didn’t see Charles, we lucked out and caught the Changing of the Guard. It’s fun to watch the soldiers and horses march past in full regalia. If this interests you, we’ll get you access to watch from behind the gates so you don’t have to jockey for the best position in the crowd. You’ll have front row seats to the action.

From there, we wandered through St. James’s Park, a beautiful green space in the city. Another beloved outdoor space is the nearby Hyde Park, home to Kensington Palace, the Princess Diana Memorial, and, during the winter months, the famous Winter Wonderland Christmas market.

Westminster & Big Ben

Situated along the north bank of the River Thames, Westminster is home to many recognizable landmarks, including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. There are also a few classic red phone booths in this area that make for great photo opportunities.

Tower Of London

One of my personal highlights was visiting the Tower of London. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a fascinating glimpse into England’s royal history. You can see the Crown Jewels, explore the armory, and meet the massive ravens that are said to guard the Tower.

If you’re visiting during the off-season, the included audio tour is a great way to explore at your own pace. But for a truly immersive experience, I always recommend arranging a private guided tour with a Beefeater before opening or after closing. There’s so much history here, and having it brought to life through storytelling makes all the difference, for both kids and adults.

London Food Experiences

London has a growing food scene, and one of the best places to experience it all is at Borough Market.

It’s truly an assault on the senses in the best possible way. Everywhere you look, there’s something delicious: freshly fried fish and chips, artisanal pastries experimenting with bold flavors, sizzling lobsters, local meats and cheeses, cocktails to-go, the viral chocolate-covered strawberries, and so much more. There is no shortage of things to try. You could easily build an incredible charcuterie board and take it up to Primrose Hill for a sunset overlooking the city.

Other markets, like Camden and Portobello, are equally fun to explore, each offering its own distinct atmosphere and variety of food.

If you’re feeling spoiled with choice just from reading this, we can always arrange a guided food tour to make sure you sample the best things. These are especially great for solo travelers, as you’ll not only enjoy amazing food, but also often meet others along the way.

For an evening out, the Covent Garden area is ideal for a make-your-own pub crawl with a mix of cocktail bars and traditional pubs. One standout experience we had was visiting Mr. Fogg’s Society of Exploration. It’s a whimsical cocktail bar that’s just as popular with locals as it is with visitors.

*The Corinthia - one of our luxury hotel partners in London*

Where To Stay In London

London offers an incredible range of accommodations, from historic luxury hotels to boutique stays. Choosing the right location and style of hotel ensures you’re well-positioned to explore while also having a space that feels like a retreat at the end of a busy day.

Corinthia London

One of London’s most elegant, grand hotels in the heart of the city, the Corinthia London combines heritage with a modern touch. The hotel's location is ideal. You’re within walking distance of tons of tourist attractions, and you have access to many Tube lines to get all over London easily.

The hotel is home to Kerridge’s Bar & Grill, headed up by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge. There is also an Italian restaurant by Francesco Mazzei called Mezzogiorno. The food was delicious, and I really enjoyed that the dinnerware was modeled after Francesco’s grandmother’s plates. You could see all the family roots that inspired the meal. We ended the meal with the most beautiful tiramisu – the best way to end any Italian meal, really.

You can also find the Velvet Bar in the Corinthia London. This newly opened champagne and cocktail bar adds a theatrical element to cocktail making, with drinks inspired by modern art. One cocktail I ordered was a completely clear espresso martini (so cool!). Paired with live music and good company, it made for a perfect evening.

Breakfast here is also worth mentioning. It goes far beyond your typical breakfast buffet, instead serving fresh, high-quality options and an à la carte menu. Breakfast is served in Mezzogiorno, where you can watch the chefs prepare fresh pasta for later that day.

Finally, the Corinthia London has a large spa spanning four floors. ESPA Life Spa features an indoor swimming pool, an amphitheater sauna, ice fountain, marble heated loungers, private sleep pods, and an extensive service menu. All guests get day access to unwind at the end of the day.

Beyond guest passes to in-house spas, booking a hotel through Telos Travel grants you:

Daily breakfast for two
Priority room upgrades when available
$100 credit to in-house restaurants
Complimentary WiFi
Early check-in/late check-out when available

The Goring

The Goring is a true London institution. Open since 1910, it’s one of the city’s most iconic hotels. With its lush carpets, upholstered furnishings, hand-embroidered wallpaper, and intricate details, it feels both luxurious and deeply comforting. It has one of the few private courtyard gardens in London, adding to its charm.

We had a beautiful afternoon tea here overlooking the garden. Complete with scones, clotted cream, tea sandwiches, champagne, and a selection of cakes, having high tea is a very British experience and a fabulous way to kick off your trip. The whole experience really sets the mood and instantly immerses you in the destination.

Tucked away near Buckingham Palace, the Princess of Wales famously got ready for her wedding here. And that’s just one of the stories this hotel holds. Peter Sweeney, the doorman at The Goring for over 60 years, has many more. Read about his interesting encounters in his many years on the job.

Into The English Countryside: Slowing Things Down

After London, we hopped on a train and headed to Wiltshire to meet up with my good friend, Charlotte. Along with the two smallest Avenue Two team members, her miniature dachshunds, Sprout and Fig.

One thing I noticed during my time with Sprout and Fig is how dog-friendly the UK is. They were welcomed almost everywhere we went and made our daily walks much more lively.

The English countryside is everything you imagine: rolling hills, charming villages, historic estates, and beautifully kept gardens. It’s a place where you can spend your days stepping back in history and your evenings under star-filled skies.

Wiltshire also has a deep literary history. Jane Austen spent much of her life in Bath, and the landscapes here feel like they were pulled straight from her novels. More recently, series such as Bridgerton have drawn renewed attention to these romantic settings.

Famous Film & TV Locations Across The UK

Beyond Bridgerton, the UK has served as a backdrop for countless iconic films and TV shows, making it especially fun for fans to visit.

From The Crown, filmed across London and beyond, to Downton Abbey filmed at Highclere Castle, and Outlander filmed in the Scottish highlands, there’s no shortage of cinematic locations here. In Bath, we walked over Pulteney Bridge, which you might recognize as the place where Javert meets his end in the 2012 Les Mis film.

Other favorites include Pride & Prejudice, James Bond, Paddington, Bridget Jones’s Diary, Peaky Blinders, and Sherlock. For many travelers, visiting the filming locations can add an extra layer of magic to their trip.

What British TV show or film are you obsessed with?

*The Bath Circus with our fabulous partner In & Beyond Bath.*

Countryside Highlights: Places We Explored

We spent a few days bouncing around Wiltshire, home to the famous Stonehenge, and Somerset. These two regions capture the quintessential English charm.

Bath

Often considered one of the best day trips from London, Bath is a city layered with history that deserves more time. This region of the countryside is worth slowing down to see. We met up with In and Beyond Bath for a History & Highlights Walking Tour and explored everything from the remaining pieces of the medieval wall to the ancient Roman Baths. The tour was wonderful, and I enjoyed connecting with Jules and Rachel to learn more about their offerings. In addition to their small group tours, they can create fully customized private experiences tailored to each traveler. These are the kind of relationships that make working with a travel advisor so valuable.

We visited Bath Circus, a circular architectural stretch of townhouses inspired by the Colosseum. Architect John Wood was a fan of Stonehenge and designed the circle to match the rock structure's size. I’ll have to bring my tape measure on my next trip.

We also visited The Assembly Rooms, which were once the center of social life in Georgian England. The grand ballrooms were used to present young girls to society in the hopes of finding a husband (very Bridgerton-esque). Along with The Assembly Rooms, you can visit Abbey Deli, which serves as the Modiste and the Featherington house at No. 1 Royal Crescent.

The Cotswolds

The definition of a postcard-perfect English countryside. Honey-colored stone cottages, large fields, and charming village centers that feel frozen in time. It’s the kind of place where you can wander without a plan and still stumble upon something beautiful. Just make sure you have a good pair of wellies for trekking across the muddy fields.

My friends at In & Beyond Bath will take you to the highlights of this region that you read about online, but they will also take you off the beaten path. Working with locals who know the hidden towns and beautiful places that the typical tourist doesn’t see is another way I help my clients escape the crowds during peak season and have a more special experience.

Jurassic Coast & Beyond

We also explored areas like Castle Cary and Sherborne, along with parts of the Jurassic Coast. This area is known for its dramatic cliffs and fossil-rich beaches, which give it its name. Its rugged coastal beauty is a very different landscape from the rolling green hills of The Cotswolds.

*The Newt in Somerset - a beautiful English countryside escape*

Where To Stay In The Countryside

The English countryside is home to beautiful estates and manor houses where the property is just as much a part of the experience.

Lucknam Park Hotel

Situated on 500 acres of pristine parkland, Lucknam Park is a peaceful retreat just outside Bath. It’s the perfect place to stay if you want easy access to everything the city has to offer, while still having a quiet estate with space to unwind. It’s a great hideaway during peak season when you want to relax away from the crowds. With cottages available, it’s also ideal for families or groups traveling together.

The Pig Hotels

The Pig hotels are a little hidden gem, best known for their outstanding kitchen gardens. Their rooms are cozy and well-appointed, but the main focus here is on the food. The Pig at the Beach that we visited is known for their 25-mile-menu. Anything they can’t grow directly on the property is sourced within 25 miles of the hotel.

Heckfield Place

Heckfield Place offers a blend of luxury and nature. Their estate has tons of activities and a world-class spa. They even have a cinema in case you have a rainy day. In the summer, they harvest 5,000 fresh stems of florals a week to decorate the hotel and rooms, all grown on the property.

The Newt In Somerset

The Newt in Somerset is truly something special. We only spent one night here, and it was not nearly enough to really enjoy it. Everything here is deeply connected to the land. There’s an incredible farm store and beautiful gardens. You can even stay in a converted stagecoach room to really embrace the elevated farm stay.

The Botanical Rooms offer an elevated farm-to-table dining experience with ingredients picked fresh daily. The first course is a chef’s selection, where they don’t disclose the ingredients and instead encourage conversation about the flavors.

That connection to nature doesn’t have to end when you leave. Staying at The Newt grants you free year-long access to its 17 partner gardens, including Kew Gardens in London, Babylonstoren in South Africa, and Winterthur Gardens in the United States.

There is also a wonderful spa with a sauna, salt room, and steam room. I did a quick cold plunge in the outdoor, unheated pool before hopping into the hot tub.

The Newt’s Sister Property: Babylonstoren In South Africa

I also have to mention another favorite property of mine: Babylonstoren in South Africa’s Cape Winelands. The sister property to The Newt, it is also a unique, active farm hotel.Every aspect of Babylonstoren is led by the ever-changing botanical diversity of the garden. The onsite restaurants and stores have a farm-to-fork philosophy guaranteeing fresh, seasonal food. It’s a gorgeous property to relax, have a wine tasting, and enjoy South Africa’s natural beauty.

Why I Love Pairing London With The English Countryside

London has a kind of lovable chaos to it; there’s always something to see, do, or eat. The countryside invites you to slow down. Breathe in fresh air, wander through gardens, and enjoy a quieter life.

Together, they create the perfect balance.

*Holyrood House in Scotland - the local residence of the royals in Edinburgh*

Other Itinerary Pairings With London

While I paired London with Wiltshire and Somerset, there are other ways to extend your London itinerary.

London, Edinburgh & The Scottish Highlands

After a few days in London, head north to Edinburgh. The gothic city is filled with mystery and a touch of magic that’s sure to capture your heart. From there, venture into the stunning Scottish Highlands for dramatic landscapes.

Interested in Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands? Read about my journey through Scotland.

London & Central Europe

London is also a major gateway to Europe, making it easy to combine with destinations like Madrid, Paris, Berlin, and beyond.

After this trip, I continued to Madrid and experienced incredible food, art, and architecture. The highlight of my trip to Madrid was dinner and a flamenco show at the world-famous Corral de la Morería. This is the only Michelin-starred restaurant in the world that includes a show. It was incredible to be entertained by the prestigious flamenco dancers.

Your UK Adventure Awaits

This was a great trip with a blend of iconic city experiences and peaceful countryside charm.

If you’re feeling inspired to visit London and the English countryside, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Let me craft a personalized itinerary that fits your travel style, interests, and pace.

I’ll draw on my own experience, my trusted connections with local experts, and my personal network of elevated accommodations to create an unforgettable England trip for you.

London & The English Countryside: The Perfect UK Pairing