Whether you’re considering a change of scenery, or planning a big move, there’s lots to think about with a relocation. Your chosen destination will, no doubt, be influenced by proximity to work or new opportunities, good education, transport links, and friends and family. For many, the natural beauty of the area is also an important consideration when choosing where to settle, with health and wellbeing benefits and access to outdoor activities being desirable factors. England has a diverse landscape, with vast mountain ranges and rolling hills to stunning valleys and rugged coastlines. Under the Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) scheme, 34 areas throughout the country are protected to conserve and enhance their natural beauty. And, with so many people seeking scenic landscapes, wildlife, and natural heritage on their doorstep, it’s unsurprising that these areas are highly sought-after.
For all its beautiful countryside, quaint villages, characterful market towns, and bustling cities, England has a huge number of incredible places to call home, making choosing the ideal destination a difficult task. Read on to uncover ten of the most beautiful places to live throughout the country.
Burnham Market, North Norfolk
The North of Norfolk has no shortage of open green space to enjoy, with Bacton Wood, Holt Country Park, and Houghton Hall and Gardens just a handful of the beautiful sites to its name. Picturesque seaside towns and villages nestle along the sprawling coastline, including the beautiful 17th-century village, Burnham Market. Not only does its proximity to beaches and parks make it a desirable location, but the village itself is charming, with period homes and architecture and a whole host of independent shops, cafes, restaurants, galleries, and antique shops to explore.
Ambleside, The Lake District
Overlooking Lake Windermere is the picturesque market town of Ambleside. With Grasmere and Keswick also close by, its central location offers endless opportunities for walking, climbing, and exploring. Widely known as ‘the jewel in Lakeland’s crown’, Ambleside offers stunning scenery of majestic fells, mountains, and lakes, and a sense of great character and community.
York, Yorkshire
York offers the perfect blend of city living and natural beauty. With lots of open green space and beautiful parks, excellent transport links, a huge selection of boutique stores and high street staples, and a vibrant culinary and nightlife scene – it offers everything residents could want by way of amenities. Steeped in Roman and Viking history, the city is set apart by its magnificent architecture and monuments, including the iconic 13th-century York Minster.
Salcombe, Devon
Listed within the South Devon AONB is Salcombe, a stunning seaside town and Devon’s sailing capital. During the warmer months, the turquoise sea and sandy beaches rival the beauty of more tropical holiday destinations, and the water is often warm enough to enjoy a dip, too. Salcombe offers the best of both worlds with its coastline and rolling countryside, providing plenty of opportunities for adventure. The iconic town is also home to Overbeck’s House and Gardens, which offers incredible panoramic views from its cliffside perch.
Port Isaac, Cornwall
A traditional fishing village on the north coast of Cornwall, Port Isaac is known for its beautiful coastal scenery and whitewashed cottages overlooking the harbour from the rolling green hillsides. Its popularity today is, in part, due to the success of the famous TV series, Doc Martin, that was filmed in and around the charming village. With Port Gaverne to its east and Port Quin to its west, residents and visitors can take their pick of coastline walks to take in the stunning views.
Aysgarth, North Yorkshire
Located in Upper Wensleydale in North Yorkshire, Aysgarth is perhaps best known for its incredible three-step waterfalls on the River Ure, the most famous of which is The Aysgarth Falls. With rolling green hills and beautiful historic buildings to boot, the stunning scenery is among some of the best in the Yorkshire Dales.
Edale, The Peak District
Set in the heart of the Peak District National Park in Derbyshire, Edale is a fantastic location for those who want to enjoy a quieter way of life, immersed in nature. The charming village is home to the start and the end points of the Pennine Way, the most famous long-distance walking path in the UK, and with Kinder Scout to the North and Mam Torr to the South, Edale has a huge amount to offer by way of challenging walks and breathtaking landscapes.
Morpeth, Northumberland
The historic town of Morpeth in Northumberland offers the perfect mixture of classic and contemporary, history and modern culture. Its idyllic cobbled streets are lined with an eclectic range of bars and eateries, including fine dining restaurants, global cuisine, and a whole host of independent bars and cosy cafes. Its monthly Farmer’s Market is popular among both residents and visitors looking to sample fresh local produce. Outside of the bustling centre, there are plenty of picturesque parks and countryside to explore, including Carlisle Park, which is home to a statue commemorating suffragette Emily Davison, and offers beautiful woodland walks and boating on the River Wansbeck.
Sevenoaks, Kent
Sitting Southeast of London, Sevenoaks is a picturesque town surrounded by green countryside and studded with resplendent gardens, country estates, wildlife reserves, and nature trails. Well-connected and a commutable distance from London, the town affords residents the luxury of a career in the capital while living away from the city-centre hustle and bustle. Sevenoaks also has a vibrant dining scene, with the Mount Vineyard, award-winning Dulce’s Patisserie, and authentic Italian restaurant, Giacomo’s, showcasing some of the best the town has to offer.
Cheddar, Somerset
Cheddar in Somerset has so much more to its name than the famous cheese. The magnificent Cheddar Gorge takes the title of the country’s highest inland cliffs and remains a hugely popular destination for caving, climbing, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the Mendip Hills. Its ancient architecture, fascinating history, and famous produce all add to its impressive portfolio and unique character.
There’s much to discover when searching for a beautiful new place to call home in England, whether you’re looking for a picturesque location that doesn’t compromise your access to amenities, or you’re considering a more remote and quieter way of life.
