England has been named one of the world's top countries for travellers in 2020 by leading travel authority Lonely Planet. The country was named in the Best in Travel 2020 guide this year - the annual collection of the best travel destinations, trends, journeys and experiences to have in the year ahead - and was second only to Bhutan in South Asia. Renowned for its wonderful coastline and natural beauty spots, England has plenty to offer for a memorable holiday. Here are the top 20 unmissable experiences in England, as recommended by Lonely Planet.
1. Oxford
Oxford has plenty of attractive features, but the university is arguably the city's most defining feature, with visitors flocking to explore the medieval buildings and admire the history of the colleges | Other 3rd Party Photo: Shutterstock
2. The Lake District
Attracting around 15 million people every year, the Lake District is by far the UK's most popular natural park, boasting miles of stunning countryside, craggy hilltops and glittering lakes to explore | Other 3rd Party Photo: Shutterstock
3. York
The charming medieval city has a long history and its rich heritage is woven into virtually every brick and beam, with tourists attracted to its many museums, traditional pubs and cafes, and the stunning York Minster | Other 3rd Party Photo: Shutterstock
4. The Cotswolds
Stretching across six counties, the Cotswolds is glorious collection of picturesque walking and cycling trails, pretty villages and thatched cottages, and was awarded the status of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1966 | Other 3rd Party Photo: Shutterstock
5. Hadrian's Wall
Built between AD 122 and 128 on the orders of the emperor Hadrian, this impressive wall stretches across 73 miles from coast to coast and served to guard the wild north-west frontier of the Roman Empire | Other 3rd Party Photo: Shutterstock
6. Cambridge
Another popular university city, Cambridge's ancient colleges sit surrounded by green meadows, lending it a more tranquil appeal that its rival Oxford. Visitors can wander around the buildings and enjoy the charmed setting | Other 3rd Party Photo: Shutterstock