Southern England, affectionately known as "The Garden of England," is a region brimming with lush landscapes, historic sites, charming villages, and vibrant seaside towns. This guide will take you through the must-visit places and the best things to do in this picturesque part of the UK.

Kent: The Heart of the Garden

Canterbury

• Canterbury Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this magnificent cathedral is one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England. Take a guided tour to explore its rich history and stunning Gothic architecture.
• St. Augustine's Abbey: Another UNESCO site, this abbey's ruins offer a glimpse into the early days of Christianity in England.
• Canterbury Historic River Tours: Enjoy a relaxing punt along the River Stour, where you can soak in the medieval charm of the city from the water.

Leeds Castle

• Often dubbed "the loveliest castle in the world," Leeds Castle is surrounded by a scenic moat and expansive gardens. The castle’s rich history and breathtaking grounds make it a must-visit.
• Go Ape at Leeds Castle: For the adventurous, try the tree-top adventures with zip lines and rope bridges in the castle’s forest.

Dover

• Dover Castle: Known as the "Key to England," this fortress has protected the country for over 9 centuries. Explore the wartime tunnels, medieval keep, and stunning views over the White Cliffs.
• White Cliffs of Dover: A symbol of Britain, these iconic chalk cliffs offer breathtaking walks with views over the English Channel. The walk from Dover to South Foreland Lighthouse is particularly stunning.

East Sussex: History and Coastal Charm

Battle

• Battle Abbey and Battlefield: The site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings, where William the Conqueror defeated King Harold. The visitor center provides an in-depth look at this pivotal moment in English history.
• Bodiam Castle: A fairytale castle with a moat, Bodiam Castle is one of the most picturesque medieval sites in England.

Rye

• Rye’s Medieval Streets: Wander through the cobbled streets of this charming town, lined with half-timbered houses and historic inns. Mermaid Street is particularly famous for its picture-postcard views.
• Camber Sands: Just outside Rye, this sandy beach with its extensive dunes is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Sussex: A Mix of Countryside and Coastline

Brighton

• Brighton Pier: A classic British seaside experience, with arcades, fairground rides, and great food. Perfect for a family day out.
• Royal Pavilion: This exotic palace, with its Indian-style domes and Oriental interiors, was the former seaside residence of King George IV. The gardens around the Pavilion are also lovely for a stroll.
• The Lanes: Get lost in the narrow, winding streets filled with quirky shops, cafes, and antique stores.

Seven Sisters Country Park

• Seven Sisters Cliffs: This series of chalk cliffs is one of the most stunning coastal walks in the UK. The undulating path offers panoramic views of the English Channel and the South Downs National Park.

Arundel

• Arundel Castle: A majestic medieval castle and stately home that’s been the seat of the Dukes of Norfolk for over 850 years. The gardens, particularly the Collector Earl’s Garden, are exquisite.
• Arundel Wetland Centre: A haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, this reserve offers peaceful boat safaris and the chance to see a wide variety of waterfowl.

Isle of Wight: A Seaside Escape

• Osborne House: The former summer home of Queen Victoria, this Italianate palace offers a fascinating insight into royal life, along with beautifully landscaped gardens and private beaches.
• The Needles: These iconic chalk stacks rising from the sea are best viewed from the Alum Bay chairlift or on a boat trip. The views from the cliff tops are also spectacular.
• Ventnor Botanic Garden: Located in the microclimate of the south coast of the Isle of Wight, this garden features exotic plants from around the world.

Hampshire: Maritime Heritage and Natural Beauty

The New Forest

• New Forest National Park: A beautiful blend of ancient woodlands, heathlands, and picturesque villages. It’s perfect for walking, cycling, and spotting the famous New Forest ponies.
• Beaulieu: Visit the Beaulieu Palace House, home to the Montagu family since 1538, and the National Motor Museum, which has a world-class collection of classic cars.

Winchester

• Winchester Cathedral: One of the largest cathedrals in Europe, it has stunning architecture and a fascinating history, including the final resting place of Jane Austen.
• The Great Hall and King Arthur's Round Table: Explore this medieval hall, which houses a legendary replica of King Arthur’s Round Table.

Portsmouth

• Historic Dockyard: Home to the HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose Museum, Portsmouth’s dockyard is a treasure trove of naval history.
• Spinnaker Tower: Offering panoramic views of the South Coast, this 170-meter tower is an iconic part of the Portsmouth skyline.

Surrey: Rolling Hills and Royal Heritage

Surrey Hills

• Box Hill: Famous for its role in the 2012 Olympics, Box Hill offers splendid walking routes with views over the Weald and the North Downs. It’s also a great spot for a picnic.
• Polesden Lacey: This elegant Edwardian estate, once the home of the society hostess Mrs. Greville, offers beautifully landscaped gardens and a glimpse into aristocratic life.

Hampton Court Palace

• Hampton Court Palace: Once home to Henry VIII, this Tudor palace boasts stunning gardens, a famous hedge maze, and the largest grapevine in the world. The Tudor kitchens and the Great Hall are highlights.

Wisley Gardens

• RHS Garden Wisley: As the flagship garden of the Royal Horticultural Society, Wisley is a horticultural masterpiece with diverse plant collections, picturesque landscapes, and a serene atmosphere.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer (April to September) offer the best weather and blooming gardens. Autumn is also lovely, with vibrant foliage in the countryside.
• Getting Around: Renting a car is recommended for exploring the countryside, but trains are convenient for traveling between major towns and cities.
• Local Delicacies: Try Kentish cider, Sussex sparkling wine, Hampshire trout, and Isle of Wight garlic.

Southern England’s “Garden of England” is a region where history, nature, and culture combine to create an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re exploring medieval castles, walking along dramatic coastlines, or savoring local produce in a quaint village pub, this region offers something for every traveler.Simply import this Lambus Discover Trip and you can start editing all these waypoints and start planning your trip to southern England.