When someone says the word “England” the automatic thought for pretty much anyone would be “London” – that is fair enough. Big Ben, The London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Covent Garden – all of these well-known attractions are what make London, England as popular as it is. That’s all reasonable, London is an amazing city. However, with my family background, I travel to England every summer, so England is much more than just “London” to me. These are some of the places I adore most.

1. The Coast - Cornwall

It is true that England is known for its rainy, somewhat chilly weather year-round, however, if you’re craving a bit of a taste of the warm weather – this is the place to be. Especially in the summer, the southwest coast is a popular destination for families to go to get that beach getaway feeling. My family and I went when I was about 12 years old and the first thing we did was buy pails and shovels for the beach. Beaches were packed every single day and the weather was beautiful. Proof that England can have the perfect beach weather, the southwest coast is where to find just that!

2. Shakespeare's House - Stratford-Upon-Avon

The one and only. I went for the first time about two summers ago and needless to say, it was a really cool experience. The town itself is very cute, with a lot of cafes and boutiques, but a lot bigger than some of the small villages you come along. His house itself is tiny – the walls, the ceiling, the stairs – it truly feels like you’ve been warped into a gnome-sized house. Nonetheless, it’s a must see.

3. The Lake District

England has a lot of farmland. When I say a lot, I mean a lot. London shows the cosmopolitan side of England, however, when you drive even 20-30 minutes out of it all, you will come to what seems as never-ending farmland. For many drives to places around the country, you can expect to have the scent of cow manure 50-60% of the time, but don’t get me wrong, it’s absolutely beautiful. My family and I travel every year to the northwest region, a very mountainous region of England and it the location of the scenic Lake District. Also called “The Lakes”, it’s a very popular vacation destination for those who love the outdoors and allows for various outdoor activities. From climbing mountains to walks along numerous lakes to renting a rowboat in a lake, there is always so much to do. You must keep in mind, however, that this is a very rainy spot. Very, very rainy. So pack up your rain jacket and wellies because this is a spot that should not be missed.

4. Castles/Historic Houses

Warwick, Durham, Chatsworth – to just list a few. Although I normally am the one to complain when my parents voice that we are going to a historic house or castle, they’re so beautiful and provide such a rich sense of culture and history. There're endless numbers of historic houses and castles throughout England. No matter where you are, you will be able to find one to visit.

5. Cambridge and Oxford

Of course, the two most well-known, prestigious universities in England. They are both absolutely stunning and have perfect towns to compliment them. In Cambridge, you have the chance to ride on a gondola, which can be even more fun when you and your family decide to punt for yourselves. In Oxford, the little-hidden streets are home to some of the cutest stores. Both cities never disappoint with their charm.

6. Cute villages you stumble upon

Honestly, the cute, quaint villages that you’ll stumble upon throughout all of England is the epitome of what England is. Whether it’s a single street with one pub or shop, or even a larger village with a few cottages and boutiques and a possible small river, this is what makes England such a beautiful place to explore. Even with the small size of the country itself, there are endless little places to explore and discover.