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Explore Great Britain

Sample fresh seafood in Devon, stargaze in the Highlands of Scotland, or go coasteering round Wales’ rocky shoreline - wherever your travels take you, explore Great Britain and Northern Ireland for culture that is as compelling as it is unique.

Are you brave enough to hunt for Nessie in Loch Ness, or bring history to life at medieval castles? Take to the water with white water rafting in Cardiff, or tuck into the flavours of our bustling cultural hubs? Witness world-class football in Liverpool and Manchester, iconic skylines in London and step into a world of art and creativity across Britain’s immersive exhibitions and galleries.

From vibrant cities, to quaint villages and epic National Parks, there are so many things to do in Britain and Northern Ireland - the only question you need to ask is, where do I start?

Few places inspire quite like England. Home to iconic landmarks, and swathes of natural landscapes, from the Lake District to the Cornish coast.

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Scotland’s stunning landscapes, lochs, islands and mountains combine to form a country that’s as unique as it is beautiful.

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When we say that Wales has more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the world, you already start to picture the beauty of its landscape.

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Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has everything from World Heritage sites to Game of Thrones locations, plus scenery that will leave you in awe.

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Known as the City of Stories, create your own narrative as you explore Norwich’s huge array of historic and modern day attractions.

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From a Medieval monarch found under a car park to the city’s celebration of multicultural modern life, Leicester has it all. See the top things to do here.

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Leicester, England

Plymouth is Britain’s Ocean City with maritime charm, natural beauty and award-winning museums and waterfront attractions. See the best things to do here.

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Small but mighty, Exeter is a city with seriously cool credentials. Discover the top attractions and best things to do and see during your next visit here.

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Chester is captivating with unmissable attractions such as its historic Roman City Walls to Chester Zoo's animal kingdom. See the best things to do here.

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A storyteller of history, Lincoln is a city with thousands of tales to tell. Discover the city's best things to do and attractions in our official guide.

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From its beginnings as a Norman Fortress, Lancaster’s historic buildings and attractions tell epic tales and offer plenty of things to do.

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A place for roaming Romans, valiant Vikings and wise wizards, Durham is a city bursting with untold stories and magical moments.

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Sitting on the edge of the Peak District National Park, Sheffield is a place for outdoor lovers and creatives. Find the best things to do in our guide.

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A perfect blend of nature and urban living. Colchester, Essex, was made to be explored.

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The city of Cambridge is a hotbed of history, architecture and innovation.

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Cool creative Bristol is a must-see for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

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Packed with lively pubs, an eclectic food scene and a myriad of immersive experiences.

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An industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart and a whole host of quirky adventures.

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Stratford-upon-Avon

Birthplace of the great bard, William Shakespeare, fall in love with this hopelessly romantic 16th century town.

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Lovers of The Crown can wrap themselves in royalty as this town is about as regal as it gets.

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Small and mighty York is the medieval walled city that really packs a punch.

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Just an hour by train from London and you’re in the city of dreaming spires.

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The birthplace of 2-Tone music, and home to a bohemian village and a showy modern cathedral.

A hotbed for shopping and the arts, you’ll find lots to explore in Leeds.

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From The Beatles to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with seriously cool credentials.

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Pushing the boundaries of art and culture, with a heart that beats through its people.

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A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

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From palaces to cobbled alleys and even a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

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Step into a land of castles, world-renowned rugby and a whole host of myths and legends.

A wellness retreat for the Romans and Georgian architecture around every corner.

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

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World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

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Newcastle upon Tyne

Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

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Newcastle, England

Steeped in legends that surround Robin Hood to literary greats, discover what this city has to offer.

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Countryside

Peak district.

For hikers, cyclists, horse riders and thrill seekers, the Peak District offers adventures galore.

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Lake District

From the tip of England’s tallest peak to the nation’s deepest lake, this national park is stacked with super-sized scenery.

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Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog)

Looming peaks over thick forests, sheep-grazed valleys and open moors - adventure awaits in Wales.

The Broads is a breath of fresh air, beautifully webbed with lakes, fens and rivers.

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Lush rolling pastures, pretty stone villages and rambling rivers - the Cotswolds has it all.

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Yorkshire Dales

Proof that perfection can’t be rushed, the Yorkshire Dales was millions of years in-the-making.

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Dartmoor and Exmoor

With tangled oak forests and looming peaks, it can feel like the edge of the world.

Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms is a playground for wildlife lovers, hill climbers, thrill seekers and more.

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Pembrokeshire

For a real adventure, head to Wales westernmost tip. A paradise for hikers, swimmers, thrill-seekers and birdwatchers.

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The Scottish Highlands

Located in the northern reaches of Scotland, the Highlands are about beauty and adventure.

Hugging the south-west, Devon is a playground for adventurers, explorers and foodies.

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Northumberland

Historical hot property – evident in its castles, citadels and 2,000-year-old Hadrian’s Wall.

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Snowdonia (Eryri)

Full of adventure, from its sky-scraping peaks to plunging glacial valleys, Snowdonia's scenery is guaranteed to blow your mind.

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North York Moors

Rugged yet beautiful, wild yet welcoming – the North York Moors National Park is full of surprises.

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Explore pristine woods, climb mountains and paddle the waters of Scotland's wild landscape.

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Borders and Lowlands

The gateway into Scotland, the Borders and Lowlands pack a punch.

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South Downs

Discover epic trails, rivers to kayak, castles to conquer and wild woods to explore.

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Step into nature with tufty-haired ponies, wild countryside and a labyrinth of bike trails.

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From ice-cream parlours to sea food festivals, the ‘Garden of England’ is meant for discovery.

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Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly

Renowned for its glorious countryside, striking coastline and unique attractions.

North Wales

From lush valleys to epic shorelines and charming towns, find North Wales packed with adventure.

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King Charles III England Coast Path

A masterpiece in the making, filled with beaches, clifftops, cities and nature.

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North Coast 500

One epic road trip with hefty mountains, dazzling beaches and tranquil lochs.

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Wales Coast Path

A route to adventure, culture and wildlife hugging the shorelines of Wales.

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Scottish Islands

Jaw-dropping landscapes wrapped in tales and legends, the Isles' wild nature will stay with you forever.

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Causeway Coast

A land of mighty scenery and epic stories, this wild corner of Northern Ireland will steal your heart.

Jurassic Coast

Welcome to dinosaur territory, with beaches and rocks strewn with ancient fossils and footprints.

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15 of the best things to do in England

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Experience the best of England with these top things to do © SolStock / Getty Images

With its wild coastline, ancient history and cultural contributions that have left a mark around the world, England is one of the world’s most alluring destinations.

And while the famous landmarks and 24/7 buzz of London will always seduce first-time visitors , there are a ton of unique attractions outside the capital that deserve your attention.

From almost-cinematic hikes in the Lake District to the jaunty street art of Bristol, amazing adventures can be had up and down this green and pleasant land. The weather is always changeable, but England’s status as a world-class destination is never in doubt. Here are the best things to do in England.

1. Walk the magnificent medieval walls of York

Many historic cities in Europe retain their original city walls, but few are in as good condition as the 4m (13ft) stone walls surrounding the English city of York . Though the first fortifications were built by the Romans, the current walls are around 700 years old and date back to the medieval period. Stroll atop the walls, and you'll get some stunning views of this city’s soaring spires and crooked rooftops, especially the section behind the grandiose York Minster .

2. Discover the street art of Banksy’s old neighborhood in Bristol

Take a walk through the colorful streets of Bristol’s Stokes Croft neighborhood to see the city’s creative spirit in full flow. The former hometown of enigmatic artist Banksy, Stokes Croft was also his original canvas, and many of his works can still be seen amid the area’s quirky pubs, cool cafes and vintage boutiques.

From classics such as Mild Mild West (with its Molotov-cocktail toting teddy bear) to lesser-known works such as The Rose Trap on Thomas Street North, Banksy’s influence is indelible.

Local tip: Explore more of Banksy's oeuvre on a superbly detailed tour by Where The Wall .

3. Make like a druid and catch the sunrise at Stonehenge

Bizarre and mysterious, the prehistoric stone circle at Stonehenge is one of England’s most evocative sights and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – befitting a site said to date back as far as 3000 BCE. Most visitors gaze at the 50-tonne stones from behind the perimeter fence, but with enough planning, you can arrange an early-morning or evening tour of Stonehenge and gain access to the inner ring itself. The site takes on an ethereal quality as the golden morning sunlight slants between the stones. 

Planning tip: You can enter the circle for a sunrise ceremony for the summer or winter solstice for free as part of the Managed Open Access days.

4. Hit the world’s greatest museums in London

Working out how to spend your time in London when you only have a few days is an almost impossible task as there’s so much to see and do , but it would be remiss to not visit some of its many remarkable museums. Best of all, the majority can be visited free of charge .

From big-hitters such as the British Museum and Kensington greats including the Natural History Museum  and Science Museum to uniquely London-centric spaces such as Covent Garden ’s London Transport Museum , you’ll never be bored on a rainy afternoon in the English capital.

5. Cycle through the heart of England 

The Cotswolds are lush Olde England at its quaint best, and there are few better ways to explore this patchwork of chocolate-box villages than on two wheels on a warm summer’s day. Spread out over six English counties, this expanse of rolling hills features meandering roads, bucolic landscapes and hundreds of cozy country pubs where you can relax with a pint of real ale at the end of a long ride. For a deep dive into this quintessentially English corner of Britain, hire a bike and tackle the 102-mile Cotswold Way from Chipping Campden to Bath.

6. Catch a play in Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare's hometown

The famous-name theaters of London’s West End are the place to catch all the latest shows, but for a true taste of English drama, head up to Stratford-upon-Avon , the one-time home of William Shakespeare himself. Not only is this quaint riverside town a lovely place to explore, but it’s also the official home of the Royal Shakespeare Company , which stages consistently excellent interpretations of The Bard’s most well-known and not-so-well-known works.

7. Surf the waves of Cornwall's wild coastline

While it might not have the sun-kissed tropical scenes of the Gold Coast or Hawaii , Cornwall’s ragged coastline attracts thousands of surfers every summer, drawn by England’s biggest waves. Fistral Beach in Newquay is the epicenter of English surfing life, and its beach breaks produce powerful, hollow waves under a wide range of conditions. Newquay is also Cornwall’s biggest party town, so after a day of surfing, you can let your hair down in one of its many thumping pubs, clubs and bars. 

Detour:  If time and budget allow, consider exploring further with a visit to the Isles of Scilly . St Mary’s (the biggest of the 140 tiny islands) is accessible by ferry (or helicopter) on a day trip.

8. Take a sea-sprayed train ride in Devon

England was the birthplace of rail travel, and its historic rail lines provide some spectacular opportunities to see the country at its best. For a quick taste, take the Riviera Line from Exeter to Teignmouth, a journey of just over an hour that passes by some of Devon’s most beautiful coastal scenery.

The highlight is the stretch by the Regency resort town of Dawlish, where the train hugs the seafront so closely you can almost taste the spray of the waves as they roll back and forth against the shore. Afterward, settle in on the beach in Teignmouth and dip your toes in the English Channel.

9. See Nelson’s famous flagship up close in Portsmouth

England is home to some of the world’s most famous cathedrals, castles and mansions, but one of its most breathtaking artificial sites is a ship that’s been sitting in dry dock for over 100 years. HMS Victory was Lord Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar – arguably the Royal Navy’s greatest-ever maritime victory – and you can explore its enormous wooden frame at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard . The Victory first launched in 1765, and it’s amazing that this 250-year-old ship still exists.

Planning tip:  The engaging audio guide telling the story of Nelson’s final moments is highly recommended.

10. Get lost in the lanes of Brighton

Brighton is unashamedly alternative, and it’s hard not to fall in love with the place when you enter the quirky warren of roads known as the Lanes. Nearby, the North Laine district is the bohemian heart of Brighton, and its vibrant streets are packed with vegan cafes, espresso bars, chaotic pubs, record stores, bric-a-brac shops and vintage clothing boutiques. Spend an afternoon perusing the dusty shelves of Snoopers Paradise before ordering a local cask ale from the Great Eastern’s narrow and always-lively bar.

11. See a gig in Manchester, England's indie music capital

From Oasis to Joy Division and The Smiths, Manchester  has produced some of the UK’s most iconic bands, and the city's musical heritage is still very much alive today. You'll find a plethora of fabulous venues for live music dotted around the city, so be sure to catch a show when evening comes. From the sweat-soaked backrooms of the Eagle Inn to the ornate Albert Hall , you're guaranteed to find a spot to tune into your fave musical genre.

Local tip: Manchester's latest cultural center, Aviva Studios, is the home of Factory International , which opened in mid-2023 with a vision for reinvigorating the city's creative energy.

12. Hike England’s biggest mountain in the Lake District

William Wordsworth wrote many wonderful words about the Lake District , but it’s unlikely that he ever scaled Scafell Pike (unlike his sister, Dorothy). Rising to 978m (3209ft) above sea level, this is England’s highest mountain, and it offers panoramic views from its craggy summit. You can see the peaks of Yr Wyddfa (Mt Snowdon) in Wales and the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland on a clear day. The rocky Wasdale path is the most popular route to the top, and the 4.2km (2.6-mile) journey should take around three hours to complete.

Planning tip: Hikers and peak baggers should plan on sticking around for a bit – the Lake District has some of the best hikes in the UK .

13. Go for a pint in England’s most remote pub in the Yorkshire Dales

England is one of Europe’s most densely packed countries, and locals place a lot of value on unwinding with a quiet pint. Few places are better for that than the Tan Hill Inn on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park . At 1732ft (528m) above sea level, it’s the highest pub in the British Isles and has been known to be completely snowed in during winter blizzards. Still, the surrounding North Yorkshire landscape has a bleak beauty about it, and this remote spot is a perfect place to get away from it all. 

14. Eat fish and chips on the harbor at Whitby

There are few more English experiences than eating fish and chips in a seaside town. And while the northern fishing village of Whitby is more famous for its connections to Bram Stoker and Dracula , it’s also home to some of the finest and freshest fish and chips in the country.

Order a fresh haddock and chips from Quayside or the Magpie Cafe and sit back and admire Whitby’s famous harbor, which sweeps from a cluster of 18th-century fishing cottages along the East Cliff up to the town's famous ruined hilltop Abbey . Just watch out for mischievous seagulls who'll always have an eye on your food.

Planning tip:  Buying an on-the-spot membership to a heritage organization like English Heritage or the National Trust is good value if you plan to visit lots of historic sites. It includes free admission, as well as information handbooks and car parking.

15. Embrace Beatlemania in Liverpool

Yes, there’s a whole lot more to Liverpool than the Fab Four, but the city is stuffed with myriad museums, pop culture landmarks and subtle references to what was arguably the world’s greatest ever band. Start with the Beatles Story followed by a night at the legendary Cavern Club to get your Fab on. Don’t forget that some of the most unique Beatles sites are out of the city center.

Detour: Check out the real-life Penny Lane on the Magical Mystery Tour or, even better, take a tour of the basement of the Casbah Coffee Club to see where the Beatles played their very first gig in 1959.

This article was first published Jun 27, 2022 and updated Mar 22, 2024.

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What is an Admiral Nurse and how can they help?

Admiral Nurses are specialist dementia nurses. Continually supported and developed by Dementia UK, they provide life-changing support for families affected by all forms of dementia – including Alzheimer’s disease.

Our nurses are here when people need help. They have the time to listen and the knowledge to solve problems.

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Admiral Nurses help people living with dementia stay independent for longer – and support the people caring for them so that they will have the strength to cope with the bad days, and the energy to enjoy the good days.

Admiral Nurses work in local community services, GP practices and NHS hospitals, care homes, and hospices. They also run our  Dementia Helpline  and  Clinic appointments .

In our short film below, Penny, Aqib and Shahbanu talk about the life-changing support of an Admiral Nurse.

Why Admiral Nurses?

Admiral Nurses were named by the family of Joseph Levy CBE BEM, who founded the charity. Joseph had vascular dementia and was known affectionately as “Admiral Joe” because of his love of sailing.

How can an Admiral Nurse help me?

• If communication gets hard, we’re on hand with skills and techniques to help you stay connected to the person you love
• If someone with dementia is showing signs of fear or distress, we’ll work with you to find the best ways of preventing or managing this
• If you want some advice on the financial benefits that you may be able to claim, we can talk this through with you and provide details of services and organisations that can support you
• If your family is struggling to cope, we’ll be there to help you get your loved one the best possible additional care and support
• If you have questions you can’t get answered we’ll take the time to really understand the problem, and give you the expert support you need to tackle it

Admiral Nurses: a lifeline for families

Dementia can be devastating for the whole family. Too often, people are left to cope alone with ever-changing and relentless challenges. Families often have to take on caring responsibilities that push them to their physical, emotional and financial limits. Our nurses are there to help when people need them most.

To find out if there is an Admiral Nurse service in your area, contact our Helpline .

Book an appointment with an Admiral Nurse

Our virtual clinics give you the chance to discuss any questions or concerns with a dementia specialist Admiral Nurse by phone or video call, at a time that suits you.

Caring for your mental health when you’re a carer

Admiral Nurse Michelle, who works on our Helpline, shares the importance of looking after your mental health as a carer, and the support that's available to you. 

Moving for your mental health

Joe Costello, Consultant Admiral Nurse for Sport and Dementia, talks about the importance of exercise for people living with dementia and their carers.

Getting to know you: Angela Molineaux

Angela is a dementia specialist Admiral Nurse based in the London Borough of Sutton, supporting local families affected by dementia.

Summer Exhibition 2024

18 june - 18 august 2024.

Main Galleries | Burlington House

Tues–Sun: 10am–6pm Fri: 10am–9pm

Tickets £22-24.50 (including donation)

Friends of the RA go free

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Spend the day exploring over 1,200 fabulous works of art by famous artists and members of the public.

Celebrate creativity at the Summer Exhibition, the perfect day out for art lovers.

Art and architecture in every medium will fill our galleries, spill out into our courtyard and onto Piccadilly. There will be works which will inspire, delight, move and entertain, all coordinated by sculptor Ann Christopher RA and her committee of leading British artists and architects.

Most of the paintings, prints and sculptures will be available to buy, with a number of works available for less than £250, making this the perfect opportunity to start your art collection. Sales from the Summer Exhibition support the exhibiting artists and the RA's charitable work, including training the next generation of artists in the Royal Academy Schools.

Become a Friend , Bar & Garden Member or House Member to enjoy exclusive previews of the exhibition before it opens to the public and gain access to spaces in the Keeper’s House, the perfect spot for eating, drinking and socialising in Mayfair.

Our House Member preview morning takes place Saturday 15 June 10am–12pm. Friends previews take place Saturday 15 June 12pm–9pm, Sunday 16 June 10am–8pm and Monday 17 June 10am–6pm.

Seven works to know

Ahead of the opening of this year's Summer Exhibition, find out more about seven works which will be featured in the show.

Related events

Summer Exhibition Preview Party 2024

12 June 2024

Summer Exhibition architecture afternoon

21 June 2024

Family studio: summer celebration

23 June 2024

Are you 25 or under? Go halves with us

See great art for less with half-price tickets to all RA exhibitions. All you need to do is sign up online for free.

EU student advice

'We continue to be open to all international students, including those from the EU, and we value the important contribution they make to our universities.'

Michelle Donelan MP, Universities Minister

Here in the UK, a warm welcome is waiting for you

The UK is one of the most trusted and popular study destinations in the world. Every year, over 500,000 international students choose to study in the UK over other destinations, so as a student here, you will meet people from all over the world.

European students and staff are extremely welcome in the UK, and they make a significant contribution to the UK and to the success of its universities.

This page offers information and advice specific to European students about studying in the UK, following the UK’s exit from the European Union (EU).

What fees do European students pay to study in the UK?

Students from the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland pay the same fees as international students in the UK.

Visit our money and budgeting page to learn more about the cost of studying in the UK as an international student.

There are some exceptions to this, including:

• EU nationals who have settled status may still be eligible for ‘ home fee status ’ and pay the same as UK nationals.
• Irish nationals living in the UK or the Republic of Ireland are treated the same as UK students for fee and funding purposes, due to the UK-Ireland Common Travel Area agreement.
• UK nationals living in the EU, EEA and Switzerland may continue to be eligible for ‘home fee status’, subject to eligibility criteria.

Remember that universities can set their own fees for EU students, so always check individual universities’ funding pages to see how much you’ll pay as an EU student. Some universities offer discounts to students from the EU. If you’re unsure what fees you should pay, contact your university for advice.

EU students without settled status are no longer eligible for UK student loans.

Visit our scholarships page to find out more about the options available to you for funding your studies in the UK.

Do European students need a visa to study in the UK?

Unless you have settled status , it is most likely you will need a visa to study in the UK.

Visit our student visas page to learn everything you need to know about applying for a visa to study in the UK as a European student.

If you arrived in the UK before 31 December 2020, and you have settled status , you don’t need a visa to study in the UK.

Immigration Health Surcharge

If you are a student from the EU or Switzerland coming to study in the UK for longer than six months, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). However, you may be entitled to a full or partial reimbursement (refund) of the surcharge. Download this information pack to check if you are eligible.

Can European students still come to the UK on the Erasmus+ exchange programme?

The UK no longer participates in Erasmus+. Read more about the UK's withdrawal from Erasmus+ .

For the latest information on Erasmus+, visit the UK National Agency website .

Can European students stay in the UK after graduating?

There are lots of options available to you if you want to stay and work in the UK after you graduate.

The length of your student visa will depend on the duration of your course, but will usually end within a few months of finishing your course, so it is likely you will need to apply for a different visa to remain in the UK.

The Graduate Route welcomes international students to apply to stay in the UK and work, or look for work, upon graduation. International students who have successfully completed an undergraduate or master’s degree can apply to stay in the UK for up to two years after their studies. PhD graduates can apply to stay for up to three years.

Other types of visa may better suit your situation. Learn more on our after your studies pages .

If you arrived in the UK before 31 December 2020, and you have settled status , you have the right to live and work in the UK as part of your status.

Where can I find more information?

• Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates about studying in the UK.
• The UK government’s guidance for European students has the latest information and advice.
• Visit Universities UK’s guidance for EU students .
• Visit UKCISA’s guidance for EU students .

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EU students: you are still welcome in the UK

A UK education offers top-quality, prestige and global job prospects. Find out more than 120,000 EU students still choose to study in the UK each year.

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The Royal Parks Shop

Hello and welcome to our royal parks shop.

Our doors opened in 2023, offering you the chance to shop unique ranges of gifts, homewares, prints, books and garden accessories, as well as beautiful keepsakes to take home as a memento of your visit.

Feel-good shopping

With seasonal collections interspersed with year-round favourites, rest-assured that our team have curated ranges with sustainability front of mind. We ensure that products have been ethically sourced and sustainably produced by local artisans and UK businesses where possible.

Shopping with us is a great way to support The Royal Parks charity too. Every purchase contributes to the care of our parks, helping life flourish for everyone to enjoy not just today but for generations to come. You’ll see this reflected in our products which highlight the beauty, wildlife and history of our parks. 

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Visitengland announces tourism superstar 2024 finalists.

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VisitEngland has today 18 January revealed the 10 superstars to make the shortlist of its annual search to find the unsung hero of England’s tourism industry.

VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar competition, now in its 12 th  year, seeks out champions currently working in tourism who provide unforgettable visitor experiences, as well as showcasing the variety and quality of England’s tourism offer and destinations.

The 10 finalists were selected out of dozens of submissions from employers and destinations across England covering all areas of tourism. The finalists now go on to compete for the title of Tourism Superstar, decided by a public vote this year run on VisitEngland’s website.

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said:

“We have the most wonderful people working in our industry and Tourism Superstar is about recognising those individuals who go the extra mile to make visitor experiences truly special. Whether discovering a city from its waterways, exploring a destination led by volunteers, running a cycle hire non-profit or showcasing culinary delights with food tours, these individuals truly go above and beyond in their roles as tourism ambassadors. 

“I congratulate the 10 finalists and wish them every success in the competition, though of course they are all superstars already. I also encourage everyone to get involved and cast their votes once the competition opens.”

VistEngland’s Tourism Superstar 2024 finalists are:

• Emily Williamson, Pub Tours Ltd, Peak District 
• Field Sport UK, Leicestershire
• Sue & Ian Rainford, Brickhouse Farm Cottages, Lancashire
• Pete Chambers, The Coventry Music Museum
• Lily-Rose Sheppard, Paddlesport Guide, Roundhouse Birmingham
• Isle of Wight Ramblers: David Howarth, David Yates and Linda Jones
• Liam White, Animal Manager, Fairytale Farm, Chipping Norton
• Robert Dennis Brown, Dalby Forest Cycle Hub, North York Moors National Park
• Bury St Edmunds Tour Guides
• Amy Whitfield Triple A Food Tours, North East of England

The public will be able to vote for their favourite superstar on VisitEngland’s website from mid-February when the competition officially opens. Short films of all the finalists, carrying out their duties in their tourism roles, promoting their local destinations will, be shown on VisitEngland’s website to support with voting. Voting closes at the end of English Tourism Week (ETW). ETW takes place from 15-24 March 2024. 

The superstar with the highest number of votes is crowned winner at the end of the competition with the Tourism Superstar award handed out in spring at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence event. 

For more information on VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar 2024 finalists go to:  https://www.visitbritain.org/working-us/visitenglands-tourism-superstar…

Tourism is one of England’s largest and most valuable industries, supporting hundreds of thousands of small-to-medium sized businesses, employing 2.6 million people and, in 2022, generating £66 billion for the economy in domestic visitor spending.

Charlotte Sanders

Senior Press Officer, London, UK

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MPs who stood down at the 2024 general election

How many MPs stood down at the general election, and why?

How many MPs stood down at the election?

In total, 132 MPs chose not to stand again at the general election on 4 July.

A number of prominent MPs stood down, including 22 current and former secretaries of state. Former prime minister Theresa May, former deputy prime minister Dominic Raab and current levelling-up secretary Michael Gove all stood down, as did former Labour ministers Harriet Harman and Dame Margaret Hodge. They were joined by the former Westminster leader of the SNP, Ian Blackford, two current deputy speakers, Dame Rosie Winterton and Dame Eleanor Laing, and the chairs of 10 select committees.

Which parties did they belong to?

Most of the MPs who stood down are Conservatives – 75 of the total 132 MPs. In addition, four of the nine independent MPs who retired were first elected as Conservatives. This is unsurprising, as there were more Conservative MPs than MPs for any other party in the 2019–24 parliament.

Other parties also saw significant turnover. The nine SNP MPs who stood down equate to more than a fifth (21%) of the parliamentary party in the last parliament, only marginally behind the Conservatives’ 22%. The Green Party’s sole MP, Caroline Lucas, also announced she would not stand in the election, as did Hywel Williams, one of only three Plaid Cymru MPs.

How many MPs usually stand down at general elections?

The 2010 election saw almost 150 MPs stand down, mainly from the Labour Party, which had been in power since 1997. Some of these MPs had announced that they would stand down in response to the expenses scandal of that same year.

Similarly, 117 MPs stood down at the 1997 election, mainly from the Conservative Party – with the large Labour poll lead at the time a significant influence on these decisions.

If the election is unexpected, MPs have less time to consider whether to stand down – something that will have contributed to higher numbers of MPs standing down in 2010 and 2015 than at the snap elections of 2017 and 2019.

How long had the MPs who stood down been in the Commons?

Conservative MPs who stood down were most likely to be from the 2010 intake, as the party gained a lot of MPs at that election: almost 25% of Conservative MPs in the 2019–24 parliament were drawn from that cohort. Most SNP MPs who stood down were from the 2015 intake for similar reasons, with more than two-thirds of the party’s MPs elected in that year.

However, 17 MPs from the 2017 and 2019 intakes stood down too, despite a relatively short period in parliament. This included MPs who won seats in traditional Labour strongholds, like Dehenna Davison, the MP for Bishop Auckland, and Nicola Richards, the MP for West Bromwich East.

Why did MPs stand down from parliament?

Some MPs retired from politics after having had long careers in the Commons. Barry Sheerman, the oldest sitting Labour MP, retired after 45 years in parliament. Similarly, Harriet Harman, the longest serving female MP at the time of dissolution, left the Commons after four decades in office.

Many of those who stood down, however, are comparatively young. SNP MP Mhairi Black, once parliament’s youngest MP and still in her 20s, is not standing for election again. Other relatively young MPs stood down despite having become ministers, like Dehenna Davison, or select committee chairs, like Robin Walker, during the course of this parliament.

Many MPs cited personal reasons for standing down, like mental health struggles or a desire to spend more time with their families. Others have been critical of parliament itself. Black, for instance, described Westminster culture as “outdated, sexist and toxic”. 21 Cochrane A, ‘Mhairi Black to step down as SNP MP at next election’, BBC News, 4 July 2023, www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-66101123  Stuart Anderson said threats against his family had influenced his decision not to seek re-election in Wolverhampton South West 22 Collins R and Glinka E, ‘Two Conservative Black Country MPs to step down at election’, BBC News, 28 March 2023, www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-65097041 ,  although he was subsequently chosen as a candidate for South Shropshire instead. 23 Dawkins A, ‘MP Stuart Anderson selected as candidate in different area’, BBC News, 25 July 2023, www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-shropshire-66300464

Some MPs’ decisions may also have been prompted by the changes to constituency boundaries which will take place at the election, which have meant they may have faced a difficult reselection battle or needed to find a new constituency altogether. For instance, Jonathan Djanogly , MP for Huntingdon, announced he was standing down after he was unsuccessful in securing automatic re-adoption as a candidate in a new seat. 24 Atkinson W, ‘Djanogly de-selected in Huntingdon. Once again, boundary changes proved the crucial factor’, Conservative Home, 4 April 2023, https://conservativehome.com/2023/04/04/djangoly-de-selected-in-huntingdon-once-again-boundary-changes-proved-the-crucial-factor/  Likewise, Labour MP Mick Whitley stood down after losing a selection contest to shadow minister Alison McGovern.

Others may have been blocked from standing again by their party executives. The independent MP Geraint Davies announced he was unable to run as a Labour candidate as a hearing had not yet been held into anonymous allegations against him. Likewise, Labour MP Lloyd Russell-Moyle was blocked from standing following an unspecified allegation about his behaviour.

Finally, some MPs might simply have been sceptical of their chances of winning re-election. Many of the announcements from Conservative MPs came in the past year, during which time Labour has enjoyed a sustained poll lead. Departing SNP MPs may have been similarly influenced by the party’s decline in the polls throughout 2023.

Do MPs ever reverse their decision to stand down?

Occasionally MPs may reverse their decision. Suspended Conservative MP Julian Knight announced he would be standing down in April 2023 but reversed this decision on 31 May 2024, choosing to run as an independent candidate in Solihull West and Shirley. Andy Carter also reversed his decision to stand down from his seat of Warrington South after failing to be selected for a safer constituency. 29 Tomorrow’s MPs, tweet, 31 May 2024, https://twitter.com/tomorrowsmps/status/1796657590635581817

MPs may also seek selection in another seat despite having announced that they are standing down. Five Conservative MPs were selected for new seats despite having previously announced that they were standing down: Stuart Anderson, Stuart Andrew, Chris Clarkson, Kieran Mullan and Douglas Ross.

A handful of other MPs also sought selection in new seats in the weeks before the deadline for nominations. Jamie Wallis, 30 Tomorrow’s MPs, tweet, 17 May 2024, https://twitter.com/tomorrowsmps/status/1791603715754918051 ; Tomorrow's MPs, tweet, 23 May 2024, https://twitter.com/tomorrowsmps/status/1793715365316571295  Nicola Richards 31 Tomorrow’s MPs, tweet, 30 May 2024, https://twitter.com/tomorrowsmps/status/1796294714511294822  and Lisa Cameron 32 Tomorrow’s MPs, tweet, 31 May 2024, https://twitter.com/tomorrowsmps/status/1796611564700659826  (all Conservative MPs) all unsuccessfully attempted to gain selection in new seats in late May.

Do MPs get paid once they stand down?

All MPs continue to receive their salary up to and including polling day. The additional salary for chairs of select committees stop at the date parliament is dissolved. 

After an election, all those who cease to be an MP will receive a winding-up payment, equivalent to four months salary. Those who stand down are not eligible for an additional loss of office payments that MPs who lose their seat or stand unsuccessfully in a different seat receive.

How do MPs close down their offices?

Separate to the winding-up payment described above, departing MPs are entitled to claim for winding-up costs, to ensure that they can properly close down their offices. The winding up period covers the four months from the day after polling day. During this time MPs can continue to claim from their budgets for costs including staff salaries, travel costs, office lease costs, and data disposal costs. The pro-rated budgets are announced the day after polling day. MPs then need to provide an explanation of why the costs were incurred during the winding up period in order to claim.

The rules previously only applied to MPs who were not re-elected but after the repeal of the Fixed Term Parliament Act all MPs leaving parliament, from the 2024 election, are entitled to claim for winding up costs.

MPs will also need to issue redundancy notices to their staff. This is because MPs’ staff are employed by the individual MP, not by parliament, so when an MP stands down their staff are made redundant.

Which seats did MPs stand down from?

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