And just like that, my study abroad experience in England is over. What a crazy fourth months it has been. If you asked me back in August what I thought studying in England would be like I would not really have been able to give you an answer. Now, I can give you a million reasons why England is the most beautiful and quaint place I have ever been. Here are 13 reasons why I loved England and why I will be back the next chance I get.
Tea
I never thought I would like tea (I was a die hard coffee fan) but now I can't stop drinking it. Something about having afternoon tea just really gets me. If you want to be very English add some milk and sugar.
(Aunty's Kitchen, Windermere)
Bookstores
When I have the time, I love to sit down with a good book. The cutest and coziest bookstore are in England. If you love to read, I'd suggest take a trip here.
(Harrods Bookstore, London)
The Lake District
Probably one of my favorite places in England. The landscapes are so beautiful and the tiny little towns are so quiet. It is the perfect getaway and definitely something you have to experience on your own. I can't even put into words my love for this area.
(Cumbria, The Lake District)
Farmers Markets
In Lancaster, where I studied for the semester, they had Farmer's Markets every Wednesday and Saturday. They had the perfect array of food and tiny little trinkets. It was the best place to get fresh produce, and some delicious crepes.
(Farmer's Market, Lancaster)
London
You have probably heard this a million times, but London is one of the greatest cities I have ever been to. So much history and beautiful things to explore. There are also countless things to do, you will never be bored.
(Tower Bridge, London)
Strong Coffee
I never understood why they gave you such small serves of coffee until I had a sip. No wonder everyone drinks tea. It was impossible for me to finish a cup if I wanted to sleep that night.
(Atkinson's Coffee Shop, Lancaster)
Chocolate
Cadbury and Kinder Eggs. Try them, you won't be disappointed.
(Fudge Chocolate Shop, Windermere)
Hard Cider
An English staple. They have millions of different ciders on tap, and the best part is that it actually tastes good. Not like the brands in the States, ten times better than that.
(Manchester)
Nature
With so much land, there are so many cool things to explore. My friends and I had fun walking the nature trail and feeding the ducks every week.
(Lancaster University, Lancaster)
Close to Scotland
One of my favorite things about England was how close it was to Scotland. If you haven't been to Edinburgh it is a must see. Just look at how amazing this view is.
(Edinburgh, Scotland)
Castles
Quintessential England. Old stone castles that date back who knows how many years. Amazing to look at and even cooler on the inside.
(Lancaster Castle, Lancaster)
Pubs
Beer, a burger, and the locals. Don't know what could be better than that. Oh, and the outside of the building is normally so English.
(The Ship, Manchester)
Rain
As much as it sucked sometimes, the way it left a glow off the pavement was something else. I definitely won't miss all the rain, but I'm sure there will be times I do.
(The Penny Bank, Lancaster)
My experience in England was like nothing I could have ever imagined. I could not have had this amazing opportunity without my parents. I can not thank them enough for a chance to explore all England had to offer.
Don't worry England, I shall return soon.
(All of the photos I took myself during my study abroad experience)