When I studied in London, I took full advantage of traveling throughout the country and it did not take long to discover that England was a world of its own in many ways. As a self-described literary nerd, I was completely dazzled by cities and towns like Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon and Oxford. Not only were these villages visually stunning but they also hold so much literary significance.
Since I didn’t have the courage to drive while in London, I took the train whenever possible. For many of my daily excursions, however, I signed up for bus tours, where I could sit back, relax and marvel at the green grass outside my window. If you are thinking of renting a car and touring the country, London is a great starting point since most international flights connect there. Below are five destinations in England that I definitely recommend visiting.
Bath: Jane Austen
Even though the renowned British author only lived in Bath from 1801-1806 and never liked it much, she is often associated with the quaint city. Bath is located just under 100 miles away from London in South West England, making for a perfect day trip excursion. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site so even if you aren’t an Austen fan, there are plenty of cultural attractions to keep you entertained including the famous Roman Baths. The Jane Austin Centre (40 Gay Street) is a permanent exhibition paying homage to her life and writing. Two of her works: Northanger Abbey and Persuasion are mainly set in Bath.
Canterbury: The Canterbury Tales
If you have ever read The Canterbury Tales, then you will undoubtedly have a field day in Canterbury. Written by Geoffrey Chaucer near the end of the 14th Century, the collection of stories are filled with colorful and crazy characters that are hard to forget. The city of Canterbury lies in the district of Kent in South East England along River Stour. Besides the Canterbury Cathedral, you can also see the Ruis of St. Augustine’s Abbey and a city wall dating back to the Roman Times. There is also a Canterbury Tales attraction where each story is recreated in a hilarious, if not a little creepy manner. It’s a great refresher if you haven’t read the tales in a few years and also a good crash-course if you’ve never read them at all.
Oxford: Alice in Wonderland, Harry Potter & everything in between
If there was a Mecca of English literature, Oxford would be a fierce competitor. Harry Potter movie fans will likely recognize Christ Church because this is where the scenes in The Great Hall were shot. Lewis Carroll also found inspiration for Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland within the walls of Christ Church. It was here where Lewis met Harry, Alice, Lorina and Edith – one of which would become a fictional character in his novel. Both C.S. Lewis, author of the series, The Chronicles of Narnia and J.R.R. Tolkien of The Lord of the Rings trilogy served as Oxford faculty for several years. Clearly, if you are a fan of children’s books, Oxford is the city for you.
Stratford-upon-Avon: Shakespeare
Ah, Shakespeare, how I admire thee! I can honestly say that if I could meet anyone alive or dead it would be Skakespeare. Walt Disney ranks a close second. Some of my favorite literare classes in high school and college revolved around Shakespeare’s comedies and tragedies. His ability to create complex scenarios and even more complex characters never ceases to amaze me. If you have the slightest admiration for the famous playwright, then head straight to Stratford-upon-Avon. Located in rural Warwickshire, travelers can visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare. You can also stop by The Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Anne Hathaway’s cottage (no, not the actress).
London: J.M. Barrie & Keats
I couldn’t leave my beloved London out of this round-up. Although more of a cosmopolitan city than a quiet countryside escape, London is home to some of my favorite literary heroes. Peter Pan by Sir James M. Barrie is my absolute favorite book so naturally, any trip to London is not complete without my visiting the Peter Pan statue in Kensington Park. Barrie’s former home is located at 100 Bayswater Road, just opposite Kensington Gardens and closest to the Lancaster Gate Tube stop. Similarly, Keats’ house is located at 10 Keats Grove, Hampstead. Regardless if you are an avid fan of Keats’ poetry like I am, Hampstead is a beautiful place to walk and talk and even picnic if the weather behaves.
Megan Eileen McDonough is writer, blogger and social media specialist based in New York City. She also runs Bohemian Trails, a lifestyle blog designed for the savvy and stylish traveler. Bohemian Trails aims to feature must-see places around the world, covering everything from revamped neighborhoods and vibrant street art to innovative tech hubs and everything in between. Her cultural escapades have taken her to Latin America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Megan is also a freelance writer and social media specialist based in New York City. She contributes to various online and print publications in the travel and fashion industries and is an international correspondent for both Jetsetter and Northstar Travel Media.
