Things to do in South East England

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Dover Castle featuring heritage architecture and chateau or palace
White Cliffs of Dover featuring rocky coastline, landscape views and a pebble beach
Dover Castle showing a castle and heritage architecture
Historic Dockyard Chatham featuring interior views
Walmer Castle and Gardens which includes chateau or palace and a bridge as well as a small group of people


South East England must see attractions

1. Southampton Cruise Terminal

Spend some time watching cruise liners and freight ships come and go from the Southampton Cruise Terminal. Afterwards, make the short walk into Southampton City Center to see historic landmarks and discover a lively bar and restaurant scene. Southampton Cruise Terminal is among the most important marinas in the United Kingdom and welcomes some 2 million passengers every year.
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HDEF21 Cunarder Queen Mary 2 berthed at Southampton cruise terminal

2. Windsor Castle

For about 1,000 years, the kings and queens of Britain have lodged in the 11th-century Windsor Castle. A flag hoisted from the central Round Tower informs visitors when the queen is in the building on one of her private weekend escapes. Borrow an audio guide for a detailed description of the castle’s history and context.
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Windsor Castle showing heritage architecture and a castle

3. New Forest National Park

Discover New Forest National Park, a green oasis on the shores of southern England featuring natural wonders, centuries of history and abundant wildlife. Spanning 220 square miles (570 square kilometers) across Hampshire and Wiltshire counties, it beckons nature lovers, history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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A beautiful river walk in The New Forest

4. Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is a grand country house with marvelous landscaped gardens, set amid gorgeous green parkland. Come here to admire its majestic fountains, picturesque grounds and the 18th-century palace building, which encompasses a range of architectural styles.
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Blenheim Palace showing heritage architecture and heritage elements

5. Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is a popular seaside escape that buzzes with activity during the summer. Go for a stroll along the promenade, ride fairground attractions on a Victorian pier and revel in the lively atmosphere of the beach’s busy cafés, restaurants and clubs.
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Brighton Beach which includes general coastal views

6. Gunwharf Quays

Beneath the shadow of the famous Spinnaker Tower is the stylish shopping and leisure center of Gunwharf Quays, where you can easily spend a day browsing the many shops and enjoying the entertainment. The site's history as an ordnance yard is marked only by the cannons that line the waterfront. Today, the area is a modern, buzzing destination, popular with both local residents and visitors. Spoil yourself with a day of shopping and eating here.
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Gunwharf Quays showing modern architecture and a river or creek

What to do in South East England


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in South East England

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in South East England

Oxford City Centre

Oxford City Centre

4.5/5(64 area reviews)

The center of this English town is known for its medieval architecture, much of which is part of a prestigious university that was used as a location for Harry Potter films.

Oxford City Centre
Medieval Merchant\'s House

Southampton City Centre

4.5/5(148 area reviews)

The area was rebuilt after being annihilated in World War II, but the city won’t soon forget its earlier role with the Titanic, seafaring voyages, Romans and Saxons.

Southampton City Centre
Brighton showing heritage architecture

Brighton City Centre

4.5/5(108 area reviews)

The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife are just a few highlights of Brighton City Centre. Make a stop by North Laine or Brighton Lanes while you're exploring the area.

Brighton City Centre
Kennet & Avon Canal showing a bridge and a river or creek

Reading City Centre

4.5/5(26 area reviews)

Home to the Reading Festival, this Berkshire town is famous for its picturesque river setting, medieval abbey ruins and exceptional shopping, all of which is located in a central area.

Reading City Centre
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Central Milton Keynes

3.5/5(9 area reviews)

Central Milton Keynes is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Central Milton Keynes Shopping Centre and Milton Keynes Theatre while you're in town.

Central Milton Keynes
Royal Marines Museum which includes heritage elements

Southsea

Plan a vacation in Portsmouth’s lively seaside neighborhood, which has an ancient castle, long beaches, sprawling gardens, museums, piers and entertainment centers.

Southsea

 

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Popular day trips from South East England

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