The Cotswolds area in England is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty AONB with many Sites of Special Scientific Interest as well. 

The outstanding natural beauty is enhanced by the man-made beauty of the honey-coloured stone cottages and the vast amount of ancient history and heritage in the area.

Despite being a tourist hotspot, there are many, many opportunities for a romantic road trip within the Cotswolds and the area is awash with romantic cottages and hotels to stay in as well.

Here, we are going to take you on not one but two romantic days out in the Cotswolds starting from the Regency Town of Cheltenham.

Route 1: Romantic Road Cotswolds (with Off the Beaten Path Locations)

The getting away from it, the countryside meanders romantic road trip:

This road trip is mainly about getting away from the madding crowd but not missing out on some beautiful, but busy places.  Hopefully, the advice on where to stop for a stroll will work and these places will not be overrun with couples who have read this enjoying romantic breaks!

From Cheltenham

Head out to the B4632 via Prestbury and you can enjoy the slower pace of the B road and admire some lovely houses on the outskirts of Cheltenham before entering the countryside.

Just after a straight piece of road and the sign for Winchcombe and the 30 mile an hour sign turn right towards Belas Knap, right again into a narrow tree-lined lane Corndean Lane.

The trees open up to reveal the lovely view of Belas Knap Long Barrow as you drive along the side of the hill.  Stay on this road until you reach a crossroads where you can turn right for Charlton Abbots and Guiting Power, take this turn.  Follow on and go straight across the crossroads for Guiting Power.

Guiting Power is a nice, quiet village and an ideal place to park up and go for a walk to admire the many different building styles in the honey stone.

Leaving Guiting Power head for Bourton-on-the-Water via B4068 and then Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter.  This route takes you onto the high ground again and affords stunning countryside views. 

Once you get to Bourton-on-the-Water turn into Landsdowne which leads into the High Street and the prettiest part of the town.  You can decide if you want to stop here or drive through, if stopping there are parking spaces on the road that make a good place to walk along and back to.

Continue along Rissington Road to Little Rissington and immediately before the road sign for Upper Rissington turn left signposted for Stow-on-the-Wold. 

Turn left immediately after Phipp Feeds, you are going to Wyck Rissington, the smallest of the four Rissington’s and a place with a lovely 750-year-old church where Gustuv Holst was organist for a while.   

Wyck Rissington takes you on to the A462 where you need to turn left and then right to Lower and then Upper Slaughter.  It is definitely worth stopping in Lower Slaughter and having a lovely walk, it should be much quieter and is less commercial than Bourton-on-the-Water and is a very beautiful, romantic place for a stroll.

Onwards towards Batsford Arboretum and you have a choice once you get there depending on your preferences…  Batsford Arboretum is described as a lovely place for a romantic walk and it does look very beautiful.

However, you do have some more towns and villages to see and are on course for the National Trust’s very special, internationally renowned Hidcote Manor Gardens. 

On the way to Batsford, you will pass through lovely Lower Swell, turn right at the T junction and on to Upper Swell where you briefly go onto the B4077 by turning left and then right.  This brings you onto the A424 and turn right onto the A44 towards Batsford Arboretum, or left to go straight to Blockley via the B4479.

From Batsford Aboretum, it would be right from their entrance and then right onto the B4479 and through Blockley on towards Hidcote Manor Gardens.

If not going to Hidcote Manor Gardens then you would not need to turn off for Blockley, but go on to the Broadway Tower.

If going to Hidcote Manor Gardens pop it into the Sat Nav at Blockley, go on through Ebrington and you should soon pick up the brown signs for Hidcote Manor Gardens that will guide you in. 

When you leave Hidcote Manor Gardens head for Broadway Tower a folly designed to be seen from Lady Coventry’s house in Worcester.  It is on one of the highest hills in the area and the views are stunning.

Now, back to Cheltenham via the B4068 and A436.

This trip is largely about exploring the beautiful country lanes and getting off of the usual road routes to do so.  Therefore, I strongly urge you to use a sat nav with caution, mainly only put on if you think you may have taken a wrong turn in the many lanes and are near the next destination.  The Romantic Road depends on being off the main routes.

Approximately 4-5 hours drive time depending on traffic and approximately 75 miles.

Route 2: The Path Less Travelled Tour

This trip takes in some lovely ancient historical locations and landscapes as well as some achingly romantic settings for you to enjoy with your loved one.

Head out of Cheltenham on the A40.  This takes you past the Dowdeswell Reservoir before you turn off towards Withington, Chedworth and Bibury.

Withington is a very pretty place to drive through and is a natural route to get the Chedworth, where a visit to the Chedworth Roman Villa is recommended along with a stroll around the village.  Depending on the time of day you set out, the Roman Villa is a romantic place for a picnic lunch.  Although, you may decide to enjoy a coffee at the onsite cafe at other times of day and have lunch elsewhere.

Before you go, have a look around Chedworth, there are some very pretty cottages.

Drive to Bilbury, you will travel a short way on the A429.  A must-stop location. Bilbury is beautiful, romantic and a perfect place to enjoy some relaxing time together, to allow the stresses of life to fade away as you walk arm in arm alongside the bubbling river and enjoy the peace and tranquillity that Bilbury offers. 

Ampney Crucis is the next drive-through location and when you get to the T junction, turn right and then follow the road through the village to the crossroads and turn right onto the A417, London Road towards Cirencester. 

Pop Cerney House Gardens in the sat nav and you will be guided through Cirencester, a place to visit on a less romantic day.

Cerney House Gardens is well known as a romantic beauty spot in the Cotswolds and is a must-visit location on this trip.  They have a cosy cafe, a shop and plant sales.

When you have enjoyed the gardens, take a drive through the village of North Cerney, it is another one of those pretty, unassuming Cotswolds villages that is peaceful and beautiful.

Driving back towards Cheltenham from North Cerney to enjoy some time at Crickley Hill, you are in an ancient, historical landscape: There is a great deal of Roman history in the area and Channel Four’s Time Team excavated near the route to find Roman ruins.  The area has many ancient burial mounds, barrows and hill forts.

The route along the A435 is largely tree-lined to start with making for a very pleasing dappled light as you motor along. 

After the turn off to Cockleford there is a small crossroads, with the left turn signposted for Cowley.  Turn off down here and into Cowley, a lovely off the beaten track place with some stunning architecture to see as you drive through.

On the other side, the lane once again takes you into the heart of the ancient landscape as you head towards Crickley Hill.  After about 2 miles turn left at the crossroads onto the A436.  Observe the brown sign and turn right to Crickley Hill.

Crickley Hill is jointly managed by the National Trust and Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and not only is it a lovely place for a walk, but it is of immense importance for wildlife.  It has evidence of human habitation right back to 4000 BC and the National Trust advise that it has magnificent views ‘magnificent views towards Robinswood Hill and May Hill, and the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountain beyond.’

Following a bracing and romantic walk at Crickley Hill taking in the stunning far-reaching views, it is time to head back to your accommodation in Cheltenham for a luxurious bath and well-deserved cocktails.

Approximately 2.5 – 3.5 hours drive depending on traffic and Approximately 56 miles.

Staying in a castle is a romantic, wonderful experience.

Whilst England has a selection of Castle Hotels offering indulgence and luxury, there are also a large number of wonderful, romantic, historic self catering options to stay in a castle.  Just imagine for a weekend or a week you are king or queen of all you survey?  Or, maybe you have always dreamt of being a princess or knight or your little darlings have?

Read on for 17 handpicked top options for a holiday in a castle:

All properties are unique and offer something different and special. They are not sorted in order of preference; they are sorted simply into alphabetical order.

Blencowe Hall

Penrith Cumbria – Sleeps 24

Seen from a distance Blencowe Hall looks like an impressive manor castle and indeed Blencowe Hall is a Grade I listed fortified manor house that has a rich history dating back to medieval times. 

As you approach the house you can see the towers, one of which has the extensive damage evident from an attack during the English Civil War. 

Blencowe has 12 bedrooms and 2 of these have huge glass windows that are an interesting contemporary repair that fills the gaps of the historic damage and leaves the history in place offering stunning views. 

The decor is a traditional and contemporary style that compliments the period features. The grounds are lovely with formal gardens that reach 30 acres of walled gardens are in keeping with the style and age of the house.

Blencowe is an extremely comfortable location for a family get together or offers various options for larger groups. The kitchen has a four oven Aga as well as an electric oven and gas hob. 

There are 2 American style fridge freezers and plenty of equipment for large groups. There is a breakfast room and formal dining room both that seating 24, a butler’s pantry, games room, 11 bathrooms, 2 cloakrooms and plenty of space and comfort.

USP:  The damaged tower with its modern repair.

Book your stay here.

Cotehele

Near Saltash, Cornwall – Sleeps various

Cotehele is a Medieval castle with Tudor additions and is a country estate in the care of the National Trust.  From the moment you arrive, you know you are caught up in the history of the place. 

Cotehele is open to the public and has a range of activities, interests and shops to suit most people.  Few visitors though realise that one of the doors marked private leads to a holiday apartment or that the cottages near the sawpit are available to rent for holidays, or even that there are 2 other castle-like holiday cottages in the grounds.

Hall Court

The most special is Hall Court the apartment in the oldest part of the castle. Wow!  The apartment is accessed from the ground floor and sleeps 2.  Upstairs is a comfortable sitting room that oozes castle charm, a well-appointed kitchen/diner, a bathroom and a double bedroom. 

For those going away with family as well as the romantic castle apartment, there are 8-holiday lets in all, with 7 cottages to choose from at Cotehele as well.

Retainers Court

Overlooking the ancient chapel, Retainers Court is a lovely 15^th Century 2 story house, with thick walls and castle mullioned windows. 

Retainers Court sleeps 3, having a sitting room, kitchen, dining area, bathroom, double and single bedrooms. Not accessible due to location and very steep stairs.  Under 12’s are not allowed to stay at Retainers Court.

Malt House

Malt House is situated on the private Cotehele Quay and overlooks the river Tamar, from the outside it looks like a mini castle due to its tower.  Sleeps 6 in king-size, twin and a room that can be either, en-suite to master and 2^nd bathroom, kitchen, sitting room, utility and a tower room.

All Cotehele Accommodation

You come and go as you please and a later checkout is available on Sunday’s.  Guests have free access to the grounds out of hours, so can really enjoy the place once the visitors and staff have left or finished for the day.

USP:  A true taste of an ancient working estate on the banks of a river.

Deer Park

Near Malton, Yorkshire – Sleeps 10

A folly built by the gentry to look like a castle that is now available for self-catering holidays.  Described as a ‘crenellated, gothic miniature castle with a long and fascinating history’, the folly is Grade II listed and surrounded by an enclosed garden with views over 20 acres of parkland to Scampston Hall a stately home. 

With 6 bedrooms, including some on the ground floor the folly sleeps 10 and has a ramp for accessibility and they accept dogs.  On the ground floor there is a large kitchen including an Aga, utility room, dining room, breakfast room, drawing room, morning room and hall.

USP:  A listed Folly making a mini castle that is accessible for all.

Book your stay here.

The Mediaeval South East Tower of Great Yarmouth

Great Yarmouth, Norfolk – Sleeps 4 – 12

The Mediaeval castle that forms part of Great Yarmouth’s ancient wall is spread over 5 floors and has a kitchen diner, sitting room, two bedrooms, 1 double and twin and space for up to 4 double airbeds for larger groups,  there is 1 bathroom, a car parking space, with free on-street parking close by near the medieval wall. 

The thick castle walls feature original + shaped windows and the interior stonework is mostly painted white below the beamed ceilings.  There are modern touches, there is Wifi and a dishwasher as well as everything you’d expect.  The decor is an eclectic mix of 19th and 20th Centuries and adds to the charm of the place.

USP:  An historical building with accommodation over 5 floors.

Book your stay on Airbnb here.

The Old Folly

Hunmanby near Filey, Yorkshire – Sleeps 2

Stay in your own castle ruin for a week or weekend.  With gothic arched windows and vaulted ceilings, this folly has the feel of a castle and the outside appearance of a castle ruin.

Near the Yorkshire coast, the comfortable accommodation comprises of a kitchen, comfortable sitting room, minstrels gallery and bedroom with modern bathroom.  Book a stay and dogs go free, the garden is accessed via a big archway and is shared, there is also shared freezer space.

USP:  Stay in a very comfortable castle ruin.

Book your accommodation here.

Orchardleigh Castle

Frome, Somerset – Sleeps 12

Ten miles from Bath the Castle is set in a 500-acre estate and sleeps 24.  The 2 battlements can be rented separately and each sleeps 12.  Each battlement has a garden with hot tub and BBQ and inside the stone floors, wood panelling and exposed stone walls act as a reminder that this is a very old building. 

USP:  2 battlements that can be booked together or separately.

Book your stay here.

Pottergate Tower

Alnwick, Northumberland – Sleeps 2

Pottergate Tower sleeps 2 and was built as part of the town of Alnwick’s defences.  The contemporary furnishings are very tastefully done to enhance the ancient surroundings and the tower simply oozes tasteful, romantic charm.

The views across the rooftops of Alnwick and beyond are stunning and include the castle itself and the surrounding countryside. 

The first floor kitchen and dining area are reached via a spiral staircase and another staircase takes you up to the living area and luxurious modern bathroom. 

The mezzanine bedroom at the top has a lovely beamed ceiling and stone walls; it feels like a true castle bedroom.  Pottergate has thick stone walls, arched windows and it is impossible to forget that this really is a Grade 2 listed medieval castle-like tower. 

The tower is a historical landmark that was listed in 1952 and is an easy walk to Alnwick Castle, which is instantly recognisable as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.

USP:  Unique contemporary style, tastefully done to compliment the medieval.  Overlooks “Hogwarts”, but had the name Potter already.

Book the Pottergrate Tower here.

Quartermasters Apartment Brancepeth Castle

Brancepeth near Durham County Durham – Sleeps 3

Quartermasters Apartment is a ground floor south facing apartment in the castle, one of the oldest castles in the north of England, Brancepeth Castle and is close to Durham, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The apartment sleeps 3 and features charming cosy accommodation that includes bare stone walls. The living space is open plan and there is a double bedroom and single bedroom, 2 shower rooms. 

Guests have free access to some of the castle grounds and there is parking for 2 cars. The castle has a fascinating history and once belonged to the famous Neville family.

USP:  Ground floor, wheelchair friendly.

Book your stay at Brancepth Castle here.

Scargill Castle

County Durham – Sleeps 2

Scargill Castle was built in 1550 on the site of an even earlier medieval castle. Recently it has been lovingly and carefully restored into a delightful retreat for two from a crumbling ruin. 

21^st Century comfort sits alongside the historic character with ease. When you arrive you pull into your own private parking space and go through a gate into your private sheltered courtyard gardens, go into the sunny entrance hall and marvel at the internal stone doorway leading to the stone staircase to the upstairs, the castle has a kitchen, banqueting dining hall, living room, bedroom and bathroom. 

A hamper of food and wine is left for guests and treats for visiting dogs along with a tea tray set for when you arrive.

USP:  See the restoration photos and those from the television programme Time Team.

Book your stay at with Booking here.

Shute Barton

Axminster, Devon – Sleeps 10

Shute Barton is described as an exclusive holiday home and as one of Devon’s most important manors.  Arriving at Shute Barton to start your holiday, you cannot help but be impressed by the battlements and tower. 

There are many original features including one of the largest fireplaces in England in the Great Kitchen.  The house has 5 bedrooms and sleeps 10. The ground floor has a kitchen, laundry room, dining room, sitting room and games room as well as the Great Kitchen with that fireplace. 

There are 2 steep spiral staircases to the bedrooms on the 1^st floor.  The rooms are 3 doubles, a twin and a room that can be twin or double. 

There is a staircase to a medieval hall on the top floor with an original ceiling that is unheated but available to guests.  There is a private garden exclusive to the castle on 2 sides and larger gardens to explore. 

Shute Barton welcomes up to 2 dogs and late checkout is available on Sundays.

USP:  Great Kitchen with its fireplace and the top floor medieval hall.

Book your stay with the National Trust here.

Tawstock Castle

Barnstaple, Devon – Sleeps 8

Tawstock is a Grade II listed 18^th Century Bailey Castle situated on a rounded hilltop in open countryside that gives stunning 360 degree views of Devon countryside. 

The wood-panelled ceilings top the mixture of original features and modern tech. The kitchen is modern, slick and partly circular, there is a living/dining area, a ground floor shower room, 4 bedrooms including 2 rounded ones, 2 doubles and 2 twins, and one of the twins has twin four poster beds which is a nice taste of history. There are 2 bathrooms. 

Tawstock Castle has a roof terrace, an acre of fenced lawn and is set in 8 acres of parkland. There is ample parking and a helipad.

USP:  A Hilltop standalone fortress.

Book your stay with Booking here.

The Tower

Blickling, Norfolk – Sleeps 4

The Tower is a romantic compact tower that looks like a castle and stands alone surrounded by its own garden and then countryside.  There is a fantastic roof terrace giving the added charm to the elegantly appointed little castle.

The Tower sleeps 4 people but is not suitable for children under 6 due to the bedrooms being on different floors and separated by a steep spiral staircase. There is parking for 2 cars.    

The accommodation comprises of a kitchen and a sitting/dining room and bathroom on the ground floor, with a twin that can be made into a double on the first floor and a further double bedroom with en-suite on the second floor.  The Tower roof terrace leads to the round tower.

USP:  A castle in miniature that has a square and a round tower.

Book your stay with National Trust here.

The Turret

Charlecote Park, Warwick – Sleeps 6

With a view of the grounds and the entrance gatehouse and surrounding parkland, the Turret is another unique Castle style holiday home, this time in the Turret of a large country house.  Accessed by an ancient “secret” door the comfortable first floor self contained apartment sleeps 6 in 3 bedrooms has pretty latticed windows, period features and exposed beams.

USP:  A secret door leads up to a comfortable apartment.

Book your stay with Cottage World.

Walton Castle

Clevedon, Somerset – Sleeps 16

A fascinating castle with circular cobbles and lion statues, close to the sea and not far from Bristol this 17^th Century castle sleeps 16 in 8 bedrooms, 5 of which are actually some of the eight castellated turrets that surround the central octagonal castle. 

The main entrance opens into a large kitchen with an impressive circular granite dining table. On the first floor, there is a grand sitting room, library and reading room and on the top floor there is a lovely master bedroom with en-suite and a private terrace. 

Downstairs from the kitchen there are 2 double rooms with a Jack and Jill bathroom and the 5 outside rooms all have en-suite.

Outside there is a sunken patio that leads to the underground swimming pool, has a hot tub and BBQ area.

USP:  Impressive castle with an underground swimming pool.

Book your stay here.

The Water Tower

Trelissick Estate, Truro – Sleeps 2

This is a romantic getaway that will take your breath away!  The arched barn door entrance leads to the winding staircase and the 4 storey Victorian tower has a circular shaped room on each floor. 

It really does look like a fairytale princess tower and you could imagine Repunzel letting down her hair. The Water Tower sleeps 2 for a romantic getaway.

The bathroom is on the ground floor, a double bedroom on the first floor, with the sitting room next and the kitchen/diner at the top, so this is truly a quirky place to stay. The accommodation is pretty and there is a reserved parking space and a garden that is shared with another holiday cottage. 

USP:  Quirky fairytale princess tower.

Book your stay with National Trust here.

Watermouth Castle

Near Ilfracombe, Devon – Sleeps various

Situated at Watermouth Bay on the north coast of Devon and housing 7 self-contained apartments featuring a shared heated indoor swimming pool. 

This castle was built in the mid 19^th Century and has recently undergone extensive restoration.  2 of the apartments overlook the harbour, 3 overlook the south court of the castle towards the wooded hillside and 1 has sea views from the living room.

The apartments are in a separate part of the castle to that which is open to the public; however guests enjoy free passes to the castle attractions which include a museum, theme park style attractions, a large model railway, underground theatre and water spectacular.  The castle is only 500 metres from the beach.

USP:  An historic castle apartment stay on a mini theme park.

Book your stay here.

Whitehall Pele Tower

Mealsgate, Cumbria – Sleeps 8

A Grade 1 14^th Century tower the miniature castle-like house has been the same family for over 150 years and has an acre of grounds incorporating a fascinating Victorian manor house ruin. 

The first floor sitting room has a large Tudor fireplace and the tower sleeps 8 in 4 bedrooms, the large well-appointed kitchen/dining room incorporates 2 full-sized ovens and has a separate utility room.  Also, on the ground floor is a games room. 

The first floor has a large sitting room and 2 bedrooms with a bathroom and separate WC.  On the top floor is the master bedroom, another bedroom and a bathroom and the stairs to the roof terrace. The Tower has views over the ancient pastureland that is home to lovely wildlife and birds.

NB: The centrally heated house offers a unique and comfortable place to stay, but if the oil central heating is on for more than 8 hours there is an additional charge at £3.00 per extra hour per day.

USP:  A Victorian Manor House ruin in the grounds of this 14C Tower.

Book your stay with Cottages here.

What better backdrop for a romantic weekend, or big family event that a castle….  Above are 17 of the best options in England to suit a variety of needs and tastes. 

What they all have in common is their long history and sense of that history.  All have comfortable accommodation that is self-catering so you can come and go as you please, some offer catering options that you may wish to explore when you look into booking.

There are several factors to consider before you visit England, most importantly, the weather! The temperamental nature of the climate here means you need to come prepared for any eventuality! 

You need to allow for frequent changes in the weather when planning your packing list for England.

Whatever time of year you visit, layering is key for every season.  Centre your vacation wardrobe around items that mix and match. That way you ensure that you can add or remove clothing as things heat up or cool down.

It must have been a Brit who said:

There is no such thing as bad weather just inappropriate clothing.

Whatever else you neglect to take a thin waterproof coat or umbrella is essential. It’s very rare that you will get perfect weather here but sometimes England likes to surprise us like in Sept 2020 with 10 days of beautiful 25 C degrees. Here is a look at the other most important things to take with you on your exciting trip to England.

Essential Travel Item

Important travel documents are essential for any trip, some to consider when packing:

• Passport: The most important item on the list (unless you live in the UK).
• Driving License: Your driving license will be useful as well, even if you are not planning to hire a car as you can use it as an ID in most cases.
• Visa (if required): Make sure you read the entry requirements to the UK. Some countries need a visa and others will need 6-month validity in their passport.
• Tickets and documents: These are generally kept electronically but having a folder ready with everything handy will save you any stress. I always create Google maps with the places I’m staying and want to visit, an excel spreadsheet of all the places I’m staying and travel information. Keeping electronic versions of your passport and license will also help if anything happens to them. This will also be handy if you are flying into the UK as immigration may ask where you are staying.
• Money: Card payments are widely accepted in England. In some cases, places won’t accept cash or card so it’s good to have a mix of both. I keep most of my money on a card and have about £40 in cash for the odd thing that requires it. Wise offers multi-currency cards which are perfect for travelling and have been my go-to card company for my business.
• Credit Card (optional): Credit cards are great for backup or if you’re like me and like to gain points! MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in England. American Express is not as widely accepted but has been growing over the past few years.
• Travel Insurance: It’s not often something you have to use while travelling but if anything goes wrong on your travels you will be thankful you do. World Nomads offer travel insurance online and you can get a quote here.

Essential Travel Clothing

This list is created to be adjusted on whether you’re here for a weekend break to staying for a couple of weeks. And adjust to your style!

Tops

I would recommend 2-3 tops, that can be re-worn a few times.

• T-Shirts: Pack a couple of t-shirts that can be worn alone or when layering if the weather is changeable or turns cold. I go for more vest top style but whatever works great for layers and adding with bottom outfit.
• Collared Shirts: These can look great! I love pairing mine with a dress or use as a light jacket. For men, these are great for pairing with cinos and it will give you the flexibility to go out to nicer places or just look snazzy for photos.
• Long Sleeve Tops: These are great when you are layering your wardrobe to accommodate changing weather.

Trousers, Jeans, Shorts and Skirts

I would recommend 2 pairs of pants/bottom layers.

• Jeans: personally I like wearing jeans and these work in most weather conditions so pack at least one pair.
• Lightweight trousers: not only will they save weight in your luggage but if you do get wet they dry out quickly.
• Chinos (men): are a great choice for smart casual or daytime wearing.
• Skirts (women): are a good option for all weather types, in the summer it’s nice and cool, in the winter pair with some warm tights.
• Shorts: Warm weather is ideal for having a pair of shorts.
• Active Wear (if outdoor-based holiday): England has a lot of great walks and hikes available which a good pair of outdoor trousers will come in use.

Dress

I love taking dresses on trips, something that can be both casual and dressed up. Add some stockings just in case it gets cold.

Coat or Jacket

A good coat or jacket is a must for the trip. In the summer bring a lighter jacket and for the winter, a winter coat.

Jumper, Sweater or Cardigan

A jumper or sweater that will go with most of the clothes you have brought with you will hopefully be something you don’t need, but it doesn’t take up much room in your case if you do need one.

Cardigan is a surprisingly versatile item to take on vacation to England. Ideal when the English wheater is warm, but not quite warm enough, they work as a halfway house between nothing over your top and a jumper. 

Waterproof Jacket

A raincoat can be a better option than an umbrella depending on the weather and generally made of light material that it’s a nice addition to pack. Something like this Blacks Waterproof Jacket which comes in various colours!

Scarf

A scarf is a great item, it adds warmth when it’s cold or be an easy item to use over a jacket in the summer.

Consider bringing a pashmina scarf. “Pashmina” is a general term for a large scarf; it’s a style of scarf rather than a brand name or material type.  Modern Pashmina’s come in every possible colour and lots of different materials. If you don’t have one choose one bright and bold or to complement the capsule wardrobe you are taking on vacation.

Underwear

• Bra (women): Comfortable, sexy, sports bra or whatever type fits your style and holiday.
• Socks: Even if you are going in the height of the English summer take a pair of comfy socks, they’ll double up as slippers on cold mornings.
• Boxers (men): Add a pair for each day you’re travelling.
• Underwear (women): If you’re anything like me then you’ll have a pair for each day and a few just-in-case spares.

Pyjamas

No matter what you sleep in, a set of PJ’s will serve you well. Just get changed when chilling with a glass of wine after an exhausting day of sightseeing. Ahh, Bliss!

Swim Suite

Planning on visiting the English Seaside or enjoying a swim in your hotel pool then bringing a swim suite is worth it.  

Shoes

Comfortable footwear is a must, whatever you think you are going to be doing; you are bound to visit some historical sites, museums and the like.  For long walking days, I always pack trainers and then during the evening switch to comfy ballet flats or boots for the evening.

If you are planning on hiking or exploring any of the outdoor areas then either good waterproof walking shoes or rain boots (wellington boots as we like to say!) are a must. I wear Brashers Walking Boots for the days I go hiking.

There are lots of city and town areas in England that have cobbled streets which are not great for high heels or inappropriate shoes (at least in my opinion). Thicker heels like wedges or boots will be more appropriate.

I’d add some flip flops if visiting in the summer or staying in a hostel (makes me feel better about using shared bathrooms).

Electronics

This is where I tend to pack the most stuff! My camera bag is always extremely full and it’s a battle between clothes and this!

Phone

Most of us won’t forget our phone when travel but the plugs to charge our phones can often be forgotten. Make sure you add these to your list!

I suggest also downloading some apps to make your trip easier:

• Google Maps – offline maps so you will be able to find your way around England without the internet. I also create maps of all the places I want to travel so that I have it handy when I land and can easily see whats in the area.
• Trainline App – this will allow you to buy tickets for trains across Great Britain and it saves all your mobile tickets to the app when you register (great for not losing your tickets.
• City Mapper – this is great for telling you all the routes available from buses to trains. It will even do things like show you the best carriage on the tube for your exit!
• WhatsApp – I’d like to think most of us use WhatsApp these days but it’s the number one app people message each other in England on
• Get Your Guide – This is great for booking attractions and will save your tickets on your phone.
• Tiqets – Another great ticket company to use for booking attractions in England.
• The National Trust – You can either get a membership or pay for sites individually. Discover what Britians countryside has to offer with over 585 places you can see.
• Wise – I use this for checking the exchange rates but also it’s a great travel card. You can also download xe.com app if you prefer for exchange rates.

Portable Travel Charger

Running out of phone battery is frustrating when you’re out so having a portable charger will save you in those moments! I recommend the Anker range, they are always reliable. Check out the latest prices on Amazon here.

Travel Adapter

An absolute must is a travel charger for your phones, camera and any other electrical or chargeable items from home. I have a multi-country use one so that I’m not needing one for every country I visit.

I use this Worldwide Travel Adapter, you can find the latest prices on Amazon. The adapter covers most countries and has 3 USB ports that become so handy when you have loads of devices to charge.

Headphones

There are going to be times you want some peace and quiet or to listen to some music on your phone.  Don’t forget your headphones!

I recently bought the Sennheiser Wireless Headphones, not only do they have great sound but the noise cancelling is brilliant! The only negative is that my hair occasionally gets caught in the headphones.

Camera

Most of us have cameras on our phones, but for the best possible shots, you cannot beat your standalone purpose-made camera.  So, for the best possible photographs while in England take a camera and snap away.

Currently, I use a Sony to shoot all the videos and photos you find on my website. I have the crop framed mirrorless camera and I love it because it is compact. The only negative is you don’t get the full range on the lenses. Check out the latest prices for Sony A6600 on Amazon.

For longer trips, I do bring portable hard drives and my laptop to transfer all my photos across. If you are bringing just your phone then look at online storage to backup all the photos.

Toiletry Bag

Adjust to your preferences, I try and keep this as light as possible. It’s generally where all the additional weight is added in!

General Items

• Eye Mask & Ear Plugs – Depending on the time difference and the type of accommodation you have and maybe whilst getting about on public transport, these may prove invaluable items that don’t take up much room.
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Medication – Please don’t forget any prescribed medicines or meds that you use that may not be readily available. You will be able to get generic medication like panadol or ibuprofen over the counter here.

Skin Care

• Face Wash: A must-have to wash off the dirt and days outing.
• Moisturiser: bring a good moisturiser as our skin does take a beating when travelling. I find the cold weather cracks my skin and then in the summer it gets the sun.
• Sunscreen: Much to everyone’s shock, England can get warm and you can get sunburnt. If you’re travelling here in the summer add this to your list.
• Travel-Friendly Makeup: I always bring foundation, mascara and a choice of my favourite lipsticks. As I travel with it in my hand luggage I make sure it’s travel-sized to go through security.
• Body Wash: Normally I leave this behind as accommodation comes with it or I can pick it up at the store but you may want to bring your favourite body wash.
• Chapstick – chapped lips is the worst! I recommend bringing some chapstick to avoid this. I love these handmade lip balm on Etsy, they are Organic Ingredients, Plastic-Free, Biodegradable, No Preservatives or Additives.

Hair Care

• Hairband: is handy to keep it back from your face if the wind gets up or when you don’t feel like washing your hair.
• Hair Product: I try and keep this as travel-sized as possible as it adds weight. If you are visiting for the weekend then try and wash your hair before you come so you don’t need to worry about it. Or consider buying products here to save on the weight.

Handy Items to Carry

• Umbrella – Whichever time of year you visit England you will be very lucky not to get some rain.  Often it is the soft, gentle type that soon gets you soaked and an Umbrella is ideal for this type of rain. It can get windy here so I would make sure that it is a windy proof umbrella and something that won’t break.
• Tote bag – in the UK we charge to add bags to your shopping, having a tote bag is great to save on buying bags or if you have additional things you need to carry around. Something like this London Skyline tote bag on Etsy.
• Pen – Having a pen randomly comes in handy so I always have one in my bag.
• Sunglasses – for when the sun occasionally comes out.
• Reusable Water Bottle – You can drink the water in England so to save on money I bring on a reusable bottle like this Stainless Steel Water Bottle found on Amazon.
• Hand Sanitiser – I feel like this is a must now! Add a small bottle in your bag.
• Dry Bag – Dyneema Cuben Fiber DCF Ultralight Waterproof Roll Top Dry Bag (mouth full!) is perfect for keeping whatever you need dry! The Dyneema material is lightweight, had high tear resistance and 15x stronger than steel. You won’t find anything else like it on the market.
• Travel Towel (optional) – Microfiber towels are brilliant for travelling, they are ultra-compact/lightweight, fast-drying and super absorbent. These towels not only have antibacterial ions but come in cute patterns and can be found on Etsy.
• Laundry Bag – One of the worst things about any kind of holiday is the amount of dirty laundry that gradually piles up. Avoid getting dirty laundry mixed up with clean clothes by storing it in a laundry bag, such as this one reusable mesh laundry bag on Etsy.
• Lightweight Combination Locks – If you’re leaving your luggage in places or staying in a hostel having a lock is important! TSA locks scarily easy to get keys for so I recommend a combination padlock like this one on Amazon.

Backpack

Chances are you’ll take a backpack on board as your hand luggage.  They really are the easiest bags to carry and tend to be a free part of your luggage.  Then, once you are in England they are a practical and easy bag to pack your daily needs into.

I personally rate Osprey bags, I’ve had mine for over five years and they are still going strong. They aren’t the trendiest items but they are extremely practical. Here’s their ultra-light backpack range on Amazon.

Things You Don’t Need to Take

Please don’t PACK anything that makes you look like a tourist! You will stick out and you want to blend in like a local.

Hair Dryer

Hairdryers are big bulky items to take in your luggage allowance but also they may not be compatible with the UK voltage. If your hairdryer isn’t compatible with 230 volts then it will risk causing a fire hazard and American hair dryers are a classic for not being compatible. Read the instruction manual first to ensure safety for us in the UK.

Generally, hotels and accommodation will have them.

Heavy Items

• Full sized shampoo and conditioner – these add additional weight and take up space.
• Books – if you must bring 1 book but if you plan on lots of reading opt for a kindle or digital books.
• Valuable jewellery or items – there is no need for valuable items to be brought on holiday with you. It just adds additional stress.

Are You Reading this as a Resident in England?

Well then, you will know most of this already!  Layers are key for clothes to take on vacation, pack light and dress for comfort and style.  The advantage of being a local is you are not restricted to what you can fly with. So, you lucky people can take more.

Overseas or Staycationers:

All have fun; England is a beautiful place with lots of things to see and do.

How many you take of each item, is down to personal choice and how long your trip is for.  Just to be sure though, for each day you will need a vest, top, jumper, trousers, skirt or shorts, shoes and underwear.  Plus, the Pashmina and one of the coats to wear on top as well.

Just remember, you’ll want to dress and pack for all types of weather in one day!  That’s easy enough – right!

Have an absolutely fabulous time in England and one more thing…

Don’t forget your travel insurance!