South East England Tourism

South East England is the most populous region in the country, and home to many of its most notable natural and cultural attractions. Exploring cities such as Oxford and Brighton, landmarks including Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral, national parks from the New Forest to the South Downs, and the landscapes of both the Cotswolds and the White Cliffs of Dover are among the top things to do in South East England.

Attraction Tours in South East England

Welcome to the south east england attraction tours, days out and city tours.

Bibury Tours and Tickets

One of the most charming villages in the Cotswolds, quaint Bibury offers respite from the bustle of London and Oxford. Stroll along the banks of River Coln, explore the historic buildings—including the 14th-century weavers cottages of Arlington Row—and visit natural attractions such as Rack Isle, a water meadow filled with plants.

Jane Austen Centre Tours and Tickets

A museum dedicated to one of Britain’s best-loved authors, the Jane Austen Centre in Bath is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the life and work of the 18th-century writer. Housed in an authentic period property, with actors in costume bringing the museum to life, the center immerses visitors in the days of the Regency era.

Built in 1066 by William the Conqueror above the striking White Cliffs of Dover, the 11th century Dover Castle is the largest castle in England. Climb the Great Tower, marvel at the oldest surviving Roman lighthouse in the country, and stop by Saint Mary in Castro church, then tour the castle’s hidden wartime tunnels.

Bicester Village

A luxury shopping destination located just outside the city of Oxford, between London and Birmingham, Bicester Village tempts shoppers with more than 160 stores—from high-end, designer outlets to mainstream brands. Bicester Village is one of the most popular shopping destinations in England, with more than 7 million visitors each year.

Eton College

Founded by Henry VI and boasting a history dating back almost six centuries, Eton College is one of England’s oldest and most prestigious boarding schools. One of only four remaining boys’ boarding schools in the UK, the exclusive college has been attended by politicians, actors, literary icons, and royalty.

Hever Castle

The childhood home of Henry VIII’s ill-fated second wife, Anne Boleyn, this restored 13th-century castle is now open to the visiting public. Discover grand paneled rooms, Tudor portraits, tapestries, and antiques, and wander the grounds, which encompass formal gardens, two outdoor mazes, and a boating lake.

Burford

Perched on the banks of the Windrush River, Burford is a small English town that’s often referred to as the gateway to the Cotswolds. Highlights of the town include a medieval bridge and an abundance of Tudor and Georgian buildings that have remained unchanged over centuries.

Rochester

Located on the River Medway in Kent, the town of Rochester is located just a quick commute from London. Celebrated for the 12th-century Rochester Castle and Rochester Cathedral (whose history dates to the year 604, Rochester was also frequented by writer Charles Dickens, and various festivals and events are held in his honor.

Cogges

Located just a quick trip from Oxford, Cogges is one of the prettiest corners of the Cotswolds (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. A Scheduled Ancient Monument, Cogges has over 1,000 years of history. Today, the area is a popular tourist attraction, thanks in part to its Grade II listed Cogges Manor Farm.

Windsor

Located on the River Thames just west of London, Windsor is an ancient town with a unique royal pedigree. Best known for the eponymous Windsor Castle—the oldest and largest continually occupied castle in the world—the area was formally settled by William the Conqueror. Today, it is regularly frequented by members of the royal family.

Thorpe Park Resort

Home to more than 30 rides and family-friendly attractions, Thorpe Park Resort is one of the UK’s major theme parks. Situated 20 miles (32 kilometers southwest of London, its draws include fast-rolling coasters; high-speed water aerial and water rides, and gentler amusements ideal for the younger ones.

Isle of Wight

Sandy shorelines, white cliffs, and lush countryside come together on the Isle of Wight, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of England’s largest islands. Once the preferred holiday destination of Queen Victoria, the Isle of Wight is now popular for its annual music festivals, impressive dinosaur fossil quarries, and scenic walking trails.

What is the South East of England famous for?

Rolling countryside, coastal cliffs, national parks, castles, seaside towns, and great cathedrals characterize England’s South East, which comprises nine counties, from Kent to the east to Oxfordshire in the north. Highlights include Oxford’s medieval spires, Dover’s White Cliffs, Windsor Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, fun-loving Brighton, and the charming Isle of Wight.

Q:What cities are in South East England?

South East England boasts seven cities, each with a rich history and distinct personality. Oxford revolves around its medieval university, while Winchester centers on Regency architecture and its cathedral. Further east are the historical maritime port cities of Portsmouth and Southampton, hip-and-happening Brighton, and Canterbury, home to 11th-century Canterbury Cathedral.

Q:What are the popular things to do in South East England?

Among South East England’s top attractions are Oxford’s stone architecture, Canterbury Cathedral, and Windsor Castle. It’s popular to visit Portsmouth Historic Dockyard to see the Tudor-built Mary Rose battleship and HMS Victory. Tours of Brighton Royal Pavilion and hiking in New Forest and South Downs National Parks are also pastimes.

Q:How long should I spend in South East England?

Allow seven to 10 days for a grand tour of highlights including Oxford, Canterbury, Windsor, and Portsmouth. Alternatively, take about four days to explore a destination such as Winchester or Kent, the latter home to Dover’s White Cliffs and dubbed the garden of England for its orchards and hop farms.

Q:What shouldn’t I miss in South East England?

Don’t miss Windsor Castle, the burial place of a dozen English and British monarchs. History buffs should see Oxford’s butter-colored buildings, including Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera. Canterbury Cathedral, the Mary Rose (a Tudor warship at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard), and Dover’s castle atop its White Cliffs are other musts.

Q:What’s the best way to get around South East England?

A car is best for navigating South East England. Motorways link London to cities such as Canterbury and Oxford. And connecting rural and coastal roads weave through history-steeped countryside, villages, and towns. If you’re based in one place, traveling by train and using rail and buses to explore works, too.

When to visit

There’s never a bad time of year to visit South East England, a region comprising nine different counties. However, it is at its busiest and most popular during the summer high season since the area boasts some of the country’s most popular seaside towns, including Brighton, Margate, Bournemouth, Poole, and Whitstable. Autumn, however, is also an atmospheric time to visit—time your trip with Bonfire Night in November, and head to Lewes in Sussex to witness the traditional celebrations.

Getting around

The South East England region includes a number of major urban centers and towns. mainline trains make cities including Brighton, Bournemouth, Poole, and Canterbury easily accessible, as do National Express and Megabus bus lines. London’s two major airports, Gatwick and Heathrow, are located on the edge of the region’s borders, while international Eurostar trains stop in Ashford International and Ebbsfleet International. Ferry services from multiple ports also connect the UK to France.

Traveler tips

While few think of England as having a comparable wine scene to France, the South East has seen an explosion in the number of high-caliber wineries in recent years. It helps that its chalky terroir is very similar to what’s found in the Champagne region, and warming temperatures make it easier for grapes to ripen. Visitors should seek out the region’s top-drawer wineries such as Chapel Down, Gusbourne, and Tillingham, and enjoy the rather exceptional English sparkling wines.

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