England

England became a unified state in AD 927 and, since the 15th century, has had a significant impact on the wider world, developing the English language, the Anglican Church, and English law – the basis for the common law legal systems of many other countries around the world. Its beautiful and varied countryside is interspersed with quaint villages and cosmopolitan cities including the capital, London.
The water maze at Hever Castle in Kent

Get lost in Britain’s best mazes at stately homes

From mystical labyrinths to planted puzzles of twists, turns and dead ends in stately home gardens, Lawrence Alexander gets lost in Britain’s best mazes 

Mallards Pike in the Forest of Dean

Explore the Forest of Dean, the magical woods that inspired JRR Tolkien

This picturesque part of the Wye Valley offers woodland walks, steam trains and real-ale pubs, writes Karen Campbell

Your essential guide to Durham

The historic castle and cathedral are the undisputed stars, but this little city on the River Wear has plenty of surprises in store Getting there There are trains every half-hour from London King’s Cross to…

A Literary Land

Famous for the rural retreats of the influential Bloomsbury Group, idyllic East Sussex has inspired some of the country’s leading writers   With chalk cliffs and patchwork fields, medieval woodland and picturesque villages, East Sussex offers…

Hill Top, Cumbria, Beatrix Potter

In photos: Beatrix Potter’s Lake District

To mark the 150th anniversary of Beatrix Potter’s birth, we take a look at the lovely Lake District landscape she fell in love with and inspired her stories.

Lake District - Wasdale

The Lake District: an insider’s guide

Home to poet and artist John Ruskin and children’s author Beatrix Potter, the Lake District continues to charm visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, picturesque pubs and award-winning attractions

Hotel review: Hever Castle’s Luxury B&B

Ever dreamed of staying in a castle? Hever will exceed all expectations Set within the grounds of the historic Hever Castle estate near Edenbridge, Kent, are 28 beautifully presented B&B rooms. With plush fabrics, opulent…

Hotel review: the Hoste in Burnham Market

We take a trip to The Hoste, a regal inn where Admiral Lord Nelson would still feel at home If you’ve ever wondered what’s behind the front door of a lovely Georgian town house, try…

The London 2019 Guide is out now

Pick up your copy of the London 2019 Guide for everything you need to know about the city’s amazing array of attractions – from iconic monuments to tucked-away art collections

Ashdown Park Hotel and Country Club, Sussex.

Hotels in Sussex: Ashdown Park Hotel

Treat yourself to a luxury escape at one of the grandest hotels in Sussex, set amid the beautiful Ashdown Forest – home to AA Milne’s Winnie the Pooh