As Shakespeare wrote, “Britain is a world by itself,” and what a world it is - comprised of three marvelous countries and tourist destinations. England, Scotland and Wales each have their own unique charm, and vacationers to this region are sure to enjoy each of these three enchanting lands.
If you are planning a trip to England, Scotland and Wales, it is best to create a list of what you would like to do and see. Fitting in everything can be difficult, and it’s usually best to focus on your favorites and spend quality time exploring those areas rather than rush around from spot to spot. You might start in London and then explore nearby Kent and Sussex, enjoying all the attractions of the city, as well as castles and quaint villages. Another option is to spend your time exploring Wales, a country often passed by, yet full of promising possibilities. Or perhaps you want to explore Scotland with time to enjoy Edinburgh, “The Whisky Trail,” and hope for a glimpse of the famous Loch Ness.
Travel writer Karen Brown has explored the United Kingdom and created several interesting itineraries for travelers to this exciting region. Her detailed plans include places to visit, as well as maps and traveling tips. Her readers also have voted and chosen the following lodgings as the best in England, Scotland and Wales:
Romance abounds at Gilpin Lodge in England’s Lake District. This charming hotel, surrounded by 20 acres of gardens, woodlands and moors, won the Karen Brown Readers’ Choice Award for “Most Romantic” lodging in England, Wales and Scotland. The spacious rooms and suites are elegantly appointed and each is different, with charming views of the gardens and moors. Breakfasts and dinners can be enjoyed in one of the restaurant’s four dining rooms, and afternoon tea is served in the lounge. In-room spa treatments can be arranged, as well. You can wander to grounds on a grand country walk or visit the homes of Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.
With its excellent location, charming decor and hospitable innkeepers, it’s little wonder that Karen Brown readers have chosen Bolhays Bed and Breakfast as England, Wales and Scotland’s for lodging’s “Warmest Welcome.” The bed & breakfast’s delightful English guest rooms are located in a historic, 1899 Victorian townhouse that is just a 10-minute walk from Salisbury Cathedral, a 13th-century wonder that is a highlight of a visit to this wonderful English town. Stonehenge is just a short drive away, and there are plenty of nearby shops and pubs, including one that has been in operation since the 14th century. The innkeepers prepare a hearty, homemade English breakfast each morning for their guests. Their knowledge of the surrounding area makes them a valuable resource for those planning day trips in and around Salisbury.
Meadowland, a Bath bed and breakfast, was chosen by Karen Brown readers as England, Wales and Scotland’s “Greatest Value.” The three guest rooms are decorated in an English country style that is both comfortable and elegant. The home is distanced by about a 15-minute’s walk into the heart of Bath, but public transportation is just two minutes away. Explore the famous Roman Baths, linger in the Pump Rooms, and spend a day exploring the area around Pulteney Bridge with its museums, shops and galleries or head out of town for a visit to Blaise Castle or Salisbury Cathedral.
Pamper yourself at the spot named by Karen Brown readers as England, Wales and Scotland’s best “Splendid Splurge.” Chewton Glen, located on 130 acres in the heart of Hampshire, is an idyllic English country estate offering a mix of traditional and contemporary guest rooms and suites, all elegant and romantic in style. The hotel offers a long list of amenities and services, including a full-service spa, tennis courts, a swimming pool and nine-hole golf course. The hotel has a full-service, gourmet restaurant and afternoon tea is served on the terrace or in one of the finely appointed lounges. The surrounding area offers many fun attractions, such as historic home tours, garden tours, Stonehenge, and the National Motor Museum, which displays more than 250 different motor vehicles.
