Complete Guide to South East England (2025)

Situated at the western edge of the South Downs National Park, Winchester beckons with its rich history, remarkable heritage, and captivating medieval architecture. The city boasts a vibrant atmosphere, with bustling market stalls and a wide array of award-winning eateries, making it an ideal destination for a memorable short break.

As England’s ancient capital and the historic seat of Alfred the Great, Winchester holds a special place in the country’s heritage. The city’s crowning jewel is the renowned Winchester Cathedral, known for its magnificent medieval nave, which holds the distinction of being the longest in Europe. However, Winchester has much more to offer beyond its iconic cathedral. During our recent visit to this enchanting city, we discovered a wealth of attractions and experiences that added to the charm of our stay. From delving into the city’s captivating history to indulging in its culinary delights, Winchester provides a multifaceted and unforgettable experience for its visitors.

Chichester, a cathedral city in West Sussex, holds significant historical importance with traces of Roman settlement evident throughout the city. Roman baths, a city wall (later replaced by a Georgian wall), an amphitheatre (now transformed into a park), and the ancient Roman road known as State Street connecting Chichester to London all stand as reminders of its Roman past.

The city boasts numerous grade II listed buildings, adding to its architectural charm. Among its notable landmarks is the Chichester City Cross, a unique butter market located at the intersection of North, East, South, and West streets. Constructed in 1500 by Bishop Edward Storey, the City Cross served as a shelter for merchants selling their goods during market days.

Visiting Oxford offers a unique blend of rich academic tradition and vibrant modern culture, all set within the picturesque landscape of South East England. The city is renowned for its stunning architecture, beautiful college gardens, and charming cobbled streets that invite exploration. Whether wandering through the historic university buildings or enjoying a leisurely punt along the River Cherwell, Oxford presents a captivating atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

Oxford’s compact city centre makes it easy to explore on foot, with many attractions located close together. You can visit famous colleges such as Christ Church and Magdalen, stroll through the covered market, or relax in one of the many cafes and pubs that line the streets. The city also boasts a lively arts scene, including theatres, galleries, and live music venues, providing plenty of options for entertainment beyond sightseeing.

Beyond the city centre, Oxford is surrounded by beautiful countryside and quaint villages, perfect for day trips or scenic walks. The nearby Oxford University Botanic Garden offers a peaceful retreat with diverse plant collections, while the rolling hills of the Cotswolds are just a short drive away. This combination of cultural heritage and natural beauty makes Oxford a rewarding destination throughout the year.

Southampton, located on England’s south coast in Hampshire, is a vibrant port city that offers a well-balanced mix of maritime heritage, green open spaces, and modern urban living. Visitors often start their exploration around the bustling waterfront, where cruise ships dock and leisure boats sail by. The area around Ocean Village Marina is especially appealing, filled with restaurants, cafés, and scenic views that make it a great place to relax and watch the world go by.

The city is also known for its cultural attractions and retail therapy. Westquay Shopping Centre offers a wide range of high-street brands and eateries, making it a popular stop for those wanting to combine sightseeing with shopping. Art lovers can explore the Southampton City Art Gallery, which has a fine collection of works spanning centuries, while the SeaCity Museum tells stories of Southampton’s connection to the sea, including its link to the Titanic.

Green spaces in Southampton add another layer to the visitor experience. The Common is a large park just north of the city centre, ideal for a peaceful stroll, a picnic, or attending open-air events and festivals in warmer months. For families, the nearby New Forest National Park provides an easy escape into nature and wildlife within a short drive. With a mix of maritime flair, contemporary attractions, and natural charm, Southampton is a rewarding city to spend time in.

Visiting Brighton, nestled on the coast of East Sussex in South East England, is a refreshing blend of seaside charm and lively urban culture. The city’s pebbled beach and iconic pier are classic attractions, offering fairground rides, arcade games, and sweeping sea views. A stroll along the promenade, especially at sunset, is a quintessential Brighton experience, with the sound of gulls overhead and a breeze from the English Channel.

Brighton’s central lanes are a magnet for visitors seeking independent shops, quirky boutiques, and bohemian cafes. Known as “The Lanes,” this maze of narrow alleyways is perfect for discovering vintage clothes, artisan jewellery, and gourmet treats. North Laine, just nearby, is equally vibrant, filled with street art, record shops, and lively pubs. It’s an area that celebrates creativity and inclusivity, reflected in Brighton’s dynamic atmosphere.

Beyond shopping and seaside fun, Brighton also has a strong cultural pull. The Brighton Dome hosts music, theatre, and comedy, while the Royal Pavilion adds an exotic architectural flair. The city also serves as a base for exploring the South Downs, with scenic walking and cycling routes just beyond its northern edge. Whether you’re after beach time, nightlife, or artistic flair, Brighton offers a laid-back yet energising escape.

Visiting Dover, located in the county of Kent in South East England, offers a memorable experience shaped by dramatic coastal scenery and a strong sense of place. One of the town’s most famous features is its breathtaking cliffs. A walk along the White Cliffs of Dover provides panoramic views over the English Channel and, on clear days, even to France. The cliff-top paths managed by the National Trust are ideal for walkers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking fresh sea air and open skies.

Dover’s harbour area is a bustling hub, balancing its role as a major ferry port with an emerging waterfront charm. Along the promenade, you’ll find seafood stalls, cafés, and places to sit and watch the ferries glide in and out. The Dover Marina has been revitalised with new restaurants and views across the water, offering a modern contrast to the town’s historical backdrop. It’s a pleasant place to pause and absorb the maritime atmosphere.

Inland, Dover presents a quieter pace, with green countryside surrounding the town and easy access to heritage trails and nearby villages. The area around Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens offers a peaceful escape with landscaped grounds and winding streams, popular for picnics and gentle walks. Dover also makes a good base for exploring the wider Kent coast, with nearby destinations like Deal, Sandwich, and Folkestone all within easy reach.

Visiting Canterbury offers a charming blend of culture, architecture, and vibrant city life nestled in the heart of Kent. The city’s compact centre makes it perfect for exploring on foot, with plenty of quaint streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Whether you’re interested in browsing artisan markets or enjoying traditional English pubs, Canterbury provides a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to both day-trippers and longer stays.

The city is set within a picturesque area rich in countryside and river views, ideal for combining urban exploration with outdoor activities. Walking along the River Stour or visiting nearby parks provides a peaceful contrast to the bustling city centre. Canterbury also acts as a great base for discovering the wider Kent region, with easy access to coastal towns and scenic villages.

Canterbury’s lively cultural scene includes regular events, theatre performances, and art exhibitions, which add to the city’s dynamic character. Its accessibility by train and road from London and surrounding areas makes it a convenient destination for visitors looking to immerse themselves in an engaging mix of modern amenities and traditional charm.