by Stephen H

Created on: June 21, 2008   Last Updated: August 16, 2011

Where would you find the most modern of cosmopolitan attitudes grounded in millennia of history. There can be nowhere as rich in culture and with such an illustrious history which is still a major force in the 21st century. Anyone visiting England will find attractions to suit every taste, something for families and young adventures alike. This whistle stop guide of some of England's most outstanding places to visit is for those of you a little less familiar with the jewel in the United Kingdom's crown.

For anyone remotely interested in history and ancient religions, Stonehenge, is required viewing. A circle of impossibly large stones which are aligned to the movement of the sun and moon and which to this day provide a focus for those practicising pagan and neo-pagan philosophies. When you arrive you will find that there is simply a car park from which you cross the road to a field containing the feature. It is roped off but you can get quite close and its sheer scale is awe inspiring. At solstice, druids, pagans and those of the new age movement congregate here to pay tribute and so if you want to avoid crowds its best to choose another time to visit.

Literally down the road from Stonehenge is the south west coast of England. It is impossible not find the most beautiful of landscapes and beaches all the way along this part of the country. Starting with the Jurassic coast line of Dorset with its excellent sandy retreats and stark back drop through Devon to Cornwall. The largest and busiest naturist beach is situated just outside Bournemouth in Studland National Trust Park. On a sunny day it is hard to imagine that this wasn't God's inspiration for the Garden of Eden. For those of you who are a little more traditional, there are several family seaside towns with the usual facilities. In particular there are the quaint fishing villages of Cornwall, such as St Ives and the more industrial towns which grew up around the ports. Plymouth is the most spectacular example. Cream teas and cornish pasties are favourite foods of the area, but visiting Grockles (the local term for tourists) can experience some great sea food restaurants, most notably Rick Stein's restaurant in Padstow. The most recent of additions to the South West is the Eden Project. This is two giant domes of exotic and more familiar fauna. You need to put aside a whole day to visit and you may still want to come back to see the parts you missed.

Travelling east along the south coast and you eventually

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