Destination Guide to the North of England
A region of contrasts, the North of England combines some of the nation’s most untamed landscapes and characterful urban centres.
Stretching from the cities of Chester, Liverpool and Manchester up to the Scottish border, the north of England encompasses some of England’s most traditional counties including Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cumbria. The area is renowned for its wild and untamed natural beauty home to no less than four of England’s ten national parks; possibly most renowned are the sweeping lakes, valleys and dales of the Lake District, whilst the windswept Hills of Northumberland and the brooding, barren landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors are not to be missed. These areas of protected beauty provide an ample stomping ground for hikers, climbers, hill-walkers and outdoor enthusiasts whilst in the past they have inspired artists, authors and poets including Turner, Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter, the Bronte Sisters and Herriot to name but a few.
Some of England’s richest history can be found in the northern territories which have been influenced by England’s inhabitants throughout the ages. The footprint of the Romans is evident with heritage sites dotted throughout the region, particularly around Chester and not least along the ancient Roman frontier at the border with Scotland on Hadrian’s Wall. Norman Castles are a feature of the landscapes and there are still reminders of Viking occupation, particularly at the archaeological digs in York. Amongst the north’s most impressive sites is the UNESCO World Heritage site at the 800 yr old Fountains Abbey and Georgian water gardens.
The people of the North of England are said to be down-to-earth and warmly welcoming to visitors but are also renowned for their quirky accents and character. This rich character is reflected in the region’s major cities which are vibrant and abundant in individual personality. Manchester and Liverpool are vibrant urban centres born of the industrial revolution but experiencing revivals in recent years to make them contemporary and en-vogue cities of 21st century England. Between them they have made disproportionate contributions to England’s popular culture whether in fashion, sport, commerce or music marked most notably in the international renown of the Beatles and Manchester United Football Club. Likewise Newcastle is an up-and-coming modern city. By contrast York and Durham offer highly traditional English experiences, each dappled with historic landmarks from the glorious gothic architecture of York Minster and the UNESCO world Heritage site at the Norman built Durham Cathedral.
The North of England is not to be missed on your vacation to England, home to world-renowned countryside, cityscapes old and new, and an utterly unique culture.
