R. Crusoe Travel Assistant, Rebecca, recently spent a week traveling through England with her husband. While putting together their itinerary, they decided to focus on places that combine history, natural beauty, and thoughtful cultural experiences. They visited York, explored the Yorkshire Dales, and ended their UK adventure in London. Each stop offered something different, and the itinerary felt well-paced and fulfilling without being rushed.

First to York, one of England’s oldest cities. Its medieval streets and preserved city walls give it a distinct sense of place. Their Sunday was spent doing what the British do best: a classic Sunday Roast, followed by a private tour of York Minster with a local historian. Her knowledge and storytelling helped put the building’s stained glass, architecture, and long religious history into context. It was informative without being overwhelming. That evening, they joined a campy ghost walk, which was light-hearted, a bit theatrical, and a fun way to hear local folklore.

From York, they rented a car and headed into Yorkshire Dales National Park, an area they’d wanted to visit for years. As longtime fans of James Herriot’s books, seeing the landscapes that inspired All Creatures Great and Small felt especially meaningful.

Their first hike was to Malham Cove and Gordale Scar, a scenic loop through limestone cliffs, streams, and countryside. It was lambing season, so the fields were full of baby sheep, adding extra charm. For those less inclined to hike, nearby viewpoints and shorter walks offer similarly breathtaking vistas.

Then to Grassington, a charming market town that serves as “Darrowby” in the new All Creatures TV series. It’s a good place to stop for a cup of tea or browse small shops.

While in town, they made a stop at a traditional pub, which felt like a rite of passage. There’s something about enjoying a crispy plate of cod and a cold ale in a cozy pub that makes you feel instantly part of the local rhythm!

The next day, they drove to Hawes, home of the Wensleydale Creamery. The creamery’s guided tour walks visitors through the cheesemaking process (and includes plenty of samples). Hawes also has a large open-air market that’s one of the most popular in the region, full of local crafts and food vendors.
From there, Aysgarth Falls for a short, easy walk and then through Swaledale, one of the more remote and beautiful valleys in the Dales, with stone barns, green hills, and peaceful country roads.

The couple returned to London by train and spent the last few days taking in the city’s highlights, including the incomparable Tower of London. Seeing the Crown Jewels and learning about the history of the fortress made for a memorable morning.

Another must? The Churchill War Rooms, an immersive look at wartime Britain that’s not to be missed by lovers of history. Also recommended – a visit to Borough Market—a great place to try artisanal cheeses, pastries, and coffee. Wandering among food stalls and chatting with local vendors added a lively, authentic dimension to the visit.

During their stay, they also enjoyed afternoon tea, a bike ride through Hyde Park, and time spent at the British Museum, admiring its global collection. For lovers of antiques and unique finds, she highly recommends a stroll through the famous Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill — a treasure trove of character-rich pieces and vintage flair.

Finally, a show in the West End—The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, which was beautifully staged and a great way to wrap up the week.

This itinerary struck a balance between town, country, and city—rich in history and culture, but never overly demanding. For travelers looking to connect meaningfully with England’s traditions while enjoying accessible adventures, it’s a route that offers both beauty and depth. The trip reaffirmed why England remains a rewarding destination—timeless yet continually evolving, always offering something new for those willing to explore.