Honeymoon in England for a Vast Range of Wonders

If you want to cross the pond for your honeymoon, England should be a consideration at the top of your list. It’s not too far away from the United States and there’s so much more to do there than simply visiting London. (And it’s not just for royals either.) Explore England’s coasts, countryside and urban centers and your vacation will have a variety of scenery to keep you interested.

Understanding the United Kingdom vs Great Britain

England is a part of the United Kingdom, which also includes Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. While you could visit all of the countries in the UK, this article will focus your time and energy on discovering England during your post-wedding celebration.
England is also a part of “Great Britain,” or “Britain,” collectively with Scotland and Wales. Hence, the official name The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Why is it called Great Britain? Simply because there are thousands of islands in the British Isles, and Great Britain is the largest island. The North Sea, Celtic Sea and the English channel are its surrounding bodies of water.

England neighbors other European countries including France to the south, Belgium to the southeast and The Netherlands to the east.

England and Great Britain used to be a part of the European Union (EU) but recently left, if you recall news cycles surrounding “Brexit,” aka Britain’s exit from the EU.

Covid-19 Considerations for your England Honeymoon

If you arrive to England during COVID-19, expect restrictions. Though restrictions rapidly change, you have to self-isolate for 14 days. You’ll also have to provide a passenger locator form within 48 hours of arriving in the country, which you’re able to do online.

Airport officials may ask for proof of this form being filled out before you clear customs upon entering the country for your honeymoon.

Flying to the United Kingdom for your Honeymoon

Most people fly into the main international airports in the London area (the capital city) when arriving in England from the United States.

You can then connect to other cities on short domestic flights if traveling elsewhere in the country, or take a train to your destination, or rent a car to drive around England.

The two main airports are Gatwick (LGW) and Heathrow (LHR). Flights are plentiful year round.
Getting to Gatwick from three major urban areas are the United States during the 2nd week of June, for example, looks like this :

• Los Angeles: $600 to $840 with one to two stops
• NYC: $400 to $600 depending on which airline you choose and if you include luggage
• Houston: $1,600 with 2 stops

Arriving to Heathrow from the same three major urban areas of the United States during the second week of June:

• Los Angeles: $650, nonstop
• NYC: $650, nonstop
• Houston: $2,570, nonstop

Requirement for Traveling to England

England is a first-world country with all the luxuries and advancements you enjoy in America. You don’t need any special vaccines to travel there outside what you already have as a US citizen. You also don’t need a visa if you’re there for less than six months, however the UK has a handy visa checker for anyone to use.

All travelers will need a passport that is valid for the duration of your stay.

Peak and Non-Peak Times to Visit England

Summer is, without a doubt, the most desirable time to visit England. This is due to the increased amount of average sunshine during summer and the best chance for warmer temperatures if you make a choice to visit the coast. The ideal time to visit the coast is from June to September.

If you absolutely love the holidays in December, however, you may want to consider a winter wonderland trip to England — they do Christmas right! What they lack in warm temperatures and sunshine in December, they make up for in twinkling lights, Christmas markets, and holiday cheer.

Weather in England

There’s no doubt you’ll want to pack a raincoat for your England honeymoon, just in case. There’s always a chance it will rain in England since its temperate maritime climate can make rain a bit unpredictable.

The west is typically wetter than the east. They experience all four seasons the northern hemisphere receives during the year, with long winters and short summers. Temperatures in July and August usually reach between the 50s and 70s, and it drops to between the 30s and mid-40s from December to February.

It’s a good idea to pack with layers in mind for your honeymoon trip to the United Kingdom.

Official Language in England

The official language in England is, English, of course. They speak with British accents, however. It sounds different than American English, and just like in the United States, different areas have slightly different dialects that can make English easier to understand in some areas over others.

England’s Time Zone

England is in the Greenwich Mean Time zone, or GMT. It’s five hours ahead of New York’s time in EST, and eight hours ahead of time in Los Angeles in PST. They observe Daylight Savings time.

England’s Currency

England Currency known as pounds or pound sterling. While currency conversions vary on any given day, you can expect about $1.30 USD to get you £1 GBP (Great British Pound). The British pound has historically been worth more than the U.S. Dollar, adn therefore your money may not go as far as it would for a honeymoon in Mexico.

LGBTQ+ friendliness in your England Honeymoon Destination

England has a thriving LGBTQ+ community. They have several Pride events and parades each year, and there are plenty of gay bars and clubs to enjoy.

Driving during your England Honeymoon

It’s easy to drive this country during your honeymoon if you choose to rent a car because signage and roads are good. (They may be less so in remote countryside but generally speaking it will be fine.)

It’s worth noting, however, they drive on the opposite side of the road in England, and the driver’s seat and passenger seats in a vehicle are swapped. Driving on the left side of a road is tricky when you’re used to driving on the right.

Take this into consideration if you’re discussing driving from the city to the seaside or towns in the countryside, and various other places around England. If this isn’t for you, keep the train system in mind, which is efficient in England. Alternatively, if you don’t want to rent a car and drive on the left side of the road, consider signing up for a tour with a tour company — they will provide transportation.

What type of honeymoon can you have in England?

There’s a ton of natural beauty in England as well as manmade, in historic castles, cities and communities. And thousands of years of history. You can relax on the beaches or learn about the history of its monarchy, and dine at Michelin rated restaurants all in one day.

Food in England

There are some very British foods you should try on your honeymoon in the UK. This includes things like:

• Fish and Chips (chips = British word for French fries)
• Bangers and Mash (bangers = sausages)
• Black Pudding, which is a type of sausage including pork fat and blood, which contributes to its dark color
• Mushy Peas
• Yorkshire Pudding, made from eggs, flour, and milk or water. It’s more like a pastry than pudding consistency, like what may think of when you think about chocolate pudding
• Full English breakfast, which will likely be on the menu at your hotel. It consists of eggs, beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and sausage

The British love their tea so look into afternoon tea wherever you visit for a little pick-me-up during the day. It’ll be a memorable, very English honeymoon memory for you and your love.

There’s also a very large influence of Indian cuisine in England, due to the historic immigration of people from India to England dating back to the 18th century. In fact, the official national dish of England is Chicken Tikka Masala, which is considered a symbol of modern day multiculturalism in the country.

Areas of England to Visit and Things to Do in Each Location

We’ve listed six different areas of England to consider for your honeymoon locations, including an overview of not-to-miss attractions and popular cities in each.
The regions include:

• Southeast England
• Southwest England
• Northwest England
• Northeast England
• East of England
• Central England and the Midlands

We go into detail about each below.

Southeast England

This area of England borders the English Channel and the North Sea. The most popular city in England, and its capital, is in this region: London. It’s also an area known for medieval towns and fun beach destinations.

Tour London

It’s likely you’ll fly in and out of London for your honeymoon. And it’s worth an overnight or two, at the very least. As we mentioned, it’s the capital city of England but also the capital of the entire United Kingdom. London can be broken down into neighborhoods, much like NYC, San Francisco, or Los Angeles.

For instance, if you want a cool neighborhood vibe worthy of celebrities, stay in Soho. You can even book at stay at the Posh boutique hotel, The Soho Hotel. (If it’s a little out of your price range consider having tea there for a treat.)

If you want a more historic district, stay in the St. James area at St. Ermin’s Hotel, which neighbors the Queen’s residence, Buckingham Palace, and Hyde Park. (It’s part of Marriott’s Autograph Hotels collection.)

Looking to treat yourselves? Try a couples treatment at the Cowshed Spa at The Ned in London, near St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Be sure to check out these famous United Kingdom landmarks while you’re in London:

• Westminster Abbey
• Buckingham Palace
• Kensington Palace
• Portobello Market
• Parliament and Big Ben
• London Tower
• Globe Theatre
• Victoria and Albert Museum
• Walk along the Thames river and cross the Millennium Bridge

Take a Trip to Southampton, in Southeast England

Southampton is a port city on the south coast of England. It’s perhaps best known as where the Titanic departed in 1912, with its course set for America. You can learn about the city’s seafaring ties at the SeaCity museum, whose history dates back 200,000 years. Nowadays, it’s a popular cruise port.

They also have the Tudor House and Garden, where you can step back in time to the 15th century and see how people lived back then and how the city has transformed since.

We recommend staying on the water in Southampton during your honeymoon at the Harbour Southampton.

If you’ll be in Southhampton, be sure to explore New Forest National Park. The largest remaining heathland in Europe is here, which highlights the beauty of the countryside in expanses of low-lying vegetation. It could provide for incredible honeymoon photo opportunities.

Other Popular Destinations in Southeast England

Isle of Wight, Kent, Oxford, Surrey and Sussex are popular destinations in Southeast England.

Couples may enjoy the chocolate box villages in Surrey (which are charming picture-perfect towns), or visit Queen Victoria’s holiday home, called the Osborne House, on the Isle of Wight. Or take a trip to visit Canterbury, whose historic cathedral dates back to the 6th century and medieval villages are packed with history.

Love the beach? We recommended looking into a romantic weekend in Brighton Beach. Its excitement and wonder will capture your hearts as a coastal destination where you can stroll along the pier overlooking sea views.

Don’t miss the castle ruins at Walmer Castle, in Dover, Kent if you love architecture. Or Restoration House, a city mansion home from the 19th century in Rochester, next to Kent.

Southwest England

This area of the country is bordered by the English Channel and Bristol Channel. Wales is its northern neighbor. Many people visit this region for its beaches and rich history, so it could serve as a nice mix of both during your honeymoon.

Visit Bath, a Famous Roman-Founded City

The city of Bath is a bustling urban center but there is plenty to do and see there from a honeymoon standpoint, as a historic town known for its hot springs. There are dozens of spas to enjoy while you relax in Bath, one of the best destinations in England for your post-wedding trip.

Bath is only about an hour and a half from London by train, or just over two hours by car.

Visit the famous abbey in Bath, then head to Alexander Park. Here, picnic surrounded by the beauty of the English countryside at the highest point around, with a stunning aerial view of the city far below.

Famous author Jane Austen lived in Bath in the 19th century; if literary history is to you and your spouses’ liking, head out to tour the city tracing Jane Austin’s footsteps with one of the various tours offered in the area.

You can stay in a posh urban hotel in Bath, like the Abbey Hotel Bath, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott. Or book a luxurious hotel with an onsite spa, like The Bath Priory. It’s a large country house hotel with a cozy vibe, plenty of treatment rooms, an indoor pool, sauna and steam room.

Visit Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

If you’re heading to South West England, don’t miss a trip to one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world: Stonehenge.

It’s in the eastern part of Southwest England, just 50 minutes north of Southampton. It’s history dates back to 3,000 BC.

Hike the National Parks of Southwest England

Many couples will enjoy a trip to Southwest England for its natural beauty in these specific destinations: Exmoor and Dartmoor.

Exmoor National Park, on the northern coast of the region by Bristol Channel, is located in west Somerset and north Devon. It is 267 square miles of countryside, filled with hillside scenery, sea views, and a great place to see the varied history of England, including Roman forts and stone building settlements.

The second popular National Park in the region is Dartmoor National Park. You can see a mix of coastline and hilly landscapes here. (Try going during summer to catch a sea of yellow and purple flowers in bloom.)

Fall Head Over Heels for England at Coastal Cornwall

Cornwall is a gorgeous destination on the southwest tip of the region; it’s only four hours away from London by car. Explore Cornwall’s Lizard Point and enjoy the natural beauty of the aqua water and a chance to spot dolphins swimming in the sea. You can kayak and surf in Cornwall or relax on one of the dozens of beaches and beautiful bays there during summer.

Stay in a castle with a vineyard and have afternoon tea at the Star Castle Hotel. Or rest at a modern boutique hotel that’s family owned and operated at the Highcliffe Bed & Breakfast. If you want a smaller accommodation with 19th century Victorian history, book a honeymoon stay at Coswarth House.

The Cotswolds, a Fairy Tale Destination

If you’re dreamed of an idyllic fairy tale honeymoon, the Cotswolds may be what you and your spouse are envisioning. It’s an area that encompasses 800 square miles and five counties. Take in quaint villages and town markets, beautiful stone homes and all the charm a honeymoon in the countryside has to offer.

The best way to get to Cotswolds from London is to drive, as it’s only about two hours away and the train takes much longer.

Don’t miss the famous Blenheim Palace, a World Heritage Site that is over 300 years old and was technically not a royal residence but the largest country home in England. Take a Harry Potter-esque 28-mile train trip through the countryside for a honeymoon activity to remember aboard the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway.

Consider staying at one of the country houses in the area. Try the Lords of the Manor Hotel for understated elegance and its award winning restaurant that accommodates just 14 diners, or Burleigh Court Restaurant & Hotel, a countryside hideaway with stunning views.

East and Central England and the Midlands

Central England was home to one of Britain’s most famous citizens: William Shakespeare. There’s a lot to enjoy in this area just about two hours north of London by car or a train ride away by several routes.

Retrace the Footsteps of Robin Hood near Nottingham

The folklore of Robin Hood takes place at Sherwood Pines just 20 miles north of Nottingham. You can camp in the pines if you and your partner prefer to sleep amongst the natural beauty of the forest on your honeymoon, and zip line or take a Segway tour in the woods with Go Ape.

If a luxury cabin in the woods is more your speed as newlyweds, check out Sherwood Hideaway.
Prefer the city? Stay at the St. James Hotel, steps away from Nottingham Castle.

Relive Shakespearean Times

There’s two places in particular to visit in the central region in regards to this famous poet and playwright.
Stamford Shakespeare Company: Indulge in some theater and perhaps even romance, as you snuggle up and watch a play together performed by this theater company.

Visit Stratford-Upon-Avon: Take a tour of Shakespeare’s birthplace and home from the 16th century.

Stay in Warwickshire

This city is perhaps best known for Kenilworth Castle and gardens. Walk the medieval fortress and tour its gorgeous restored Elizabethan gardens. Warwick Castle is only a 15-minute car ride away.

Retreat to your romantic hideaway at one of the couples suites at Coombe Abbey.

Elevate your Knowledge at Cambridge

East England’s most famous area Cambridge. It’s an international destination filled with plenty of things to do, shops to enjoy, great restaurants and markets.

Be sure to visit the university, of course, and consider visiting one of the museums in Cambridge. Or take a romantic boat ride down the River Cam.

Miss feeling like a college student or never had the experience of living in a dorm room? You can both stay in a furnished dorm room at Cambridge, which are actually quite nice!

Northwest and Northeast England

The upper northwest region of England is most well known for its Lake District and the city of Manchester. Liverpool is also found in the northwest area, famously known as the birthplace of The Beatles.

Manchester, for example, is only three hours and 45 minutes from London by car, or less than three hours by train.

The northeast area brings a beautiful coastline, Yorkshire areas and historic Durham, notably known for its castle and cathedral.
It also contains the northernmost cities before you reach Scotland.

Experience the Romance of Cheshire

The romantic areas of Cheshire beckon honeymooners. Stay at the Chester Grosvenor, with its white and brown timber facade and a history dating back to the 16th century. It has a Michelin rated restaurant on site too, the Simon Radley, named after the chef of the same name.

If you want a more modern house hotel in the countryside of Cheshire, try Carden Park. Its property contains a vineyard, gardens and spa.

Take a sightseeing boat ride on the River Dee, or visit medieval Beeston Castle and 40-acre Woodland Park.

Explore the Urban City of Manchester

Manchester was established as a Roman fort in the first century, but it didn’t experience exponential growth until the Industrial Revolution in the 1800’s. Today, it’s a metropolis filled with museums and great things to do and see and is considered the gateway to the north of the UK.

You can get to Manchester in less than three hours from London by train. Two other options are to drive, at just under four hours, or fly. Manchester has a major airport, code MAN, and a flight from London is only $100 or so and takes about an hour of flight time.

Take a walking tour of the city to get your bearings, tour the National Football Museum if you’re a soccer fan, or indulge in the cuisine the city has to offer.

If you choose to use Manchester as your base to tour the region, stay at one of these hotels:

• The Edwardian, a 5-star hotel under the Radisson brand
• Whitworth Locke apartment style hotel, in an old cotton factory building
• The Lowry Hotel, overlooking the River Irwell

Enjoy the Outdoors at the Lake District

If you love the outdoors and the vibe of a lake community, Lake District National Park is for you. Consider the season you visit this waterfront area, because a majority of the things to do here involve hiking or boating on the water.
Take a day trip to the area from Liverpool or Manchester to explore the Lake District if you only want to stay in the area for a day.

Discover Durham

Durham Cathedral and Castle are two sites that should be at the top of the list for anyone visiting the area for their honeymoon. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The cathedral is located on a hill overlooking the medieval city below and its Romanesque construction dates back to the 11th century. The Castle is now a college, but students give visitors guided tours explaining its 900 year old history.

If photos of the castle look familiar it may be because its cloisters were a film location for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

Stay in the Lumley Castle Hotel for the ultimate romantic honeymoon accommodation, offering afternoon tea, seasonal golf and history dating back to the 14th century.

Immerse Yourselves in all the Yorkshires

Northeast England is full of York! York, Yorkshire, Yorkshire Dales and East, South, North and West Yorkshire. Here’s a few key things to do in the area:

• Visit York Minster church, and kiss under the Heart of Yorkshire, which is a heart shape in the tracery. Legend has it that a kiss under this architectural detail will ensure you’ll stay together forever.
• Explore York Moors National Park with breathtaking views of the east coastline.
• Tour Castle Howard, a historic country home with over 1,000 acres of gardens. Stay at one of the charming cottages on their property for evenings to remember.
• Explore The Shambles, a quintessential British streetscape with medieval architecture. (It’s also believed to have been the inspiration for JK Rowling’s Diagon Alley.)

Register for your English Honeymoon on Honeyfund

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