Cityscape

No jaunt to England is complete without visiting the vibrant melting pot of London, but there are plenty of other cities worthy of your attention, and your purse. Take a train north to Manchester, the music scene and shopping opportunities are well documented. Or visit Liverpool, the rich cultural history is ingrained in everything you do and see.

Landscape

Green sprawling fields and striking mountain panorama is universal in England. Hop on a train and visit the Lake District for long walks, traditional hotels and water sports, or the Peak District for climbing, caving and cycling. Try Cornwall and Devon for cliff views over the beautiful beaches and the English Channel.

Take Home

Blackpool, the home of the ‘kiss-me-quick’ hat is a must visit for souvenirs. And Brighton is spot-on for artwork and traditional English fudge and toffee, the folk back home will love you for it! If you’re looking for something with a bit more endurance try the Denby Pottery Factory in Derbyshire for all your kitchen-related cravings.

Eat & Drink

Indian, Chinese and Thai restaurants figure heavily in multicultural Birmingham, so you can count on the area for some delicious Asian offerings. If you fancy something a little more upmarket, there are also three Michelin-starred eateries in the Midlands city. England has some fantastic celebrity-chef run restaurants up and down the country, but book well in advance. Enjoy Jamie Oliver’s restaurant Jamie’s Italian in Oxford and Guildford ”.

New Perspective

Check out the impressive new Arsenal Emirates Stadium in London, it’s the second largest club stadium in England with a capacity of 60,355. Book a tour and you’ll see the dressing rooms, run out the players’ tunnel and touch the pitch where it all happens. Travel by train to West London and see the work in progress for 2012!

• Ashford
• Liverpool
• London

• Oxford