When thinking about mouthwatering dishes, top quality ingredients and rich culinary tradition, rarely anyone would ever think of England. In recent years, however, the country saw not only several of its best chefs rise to fame, but also noted a growing interest in the traditional produce and dishes that have been fashioning English tastes for centuries, before they were overpowered by foreign products and cuisines that have spread over England. Join us on a culinary tour of England – the feast has just begun!

Regional Specialties – Seafood

England boasts a large number of local products that fortunately include all kinds of seafood dishes prepared in coastal locations. For all enthusiasts of the classic English fish and chips – head straight to Aldeburgh in Suffolk, which will greet you with a gold-encrusted flaky white fish, topped with some fresh chips doused in salt and vinegar.

Seafood lovers will also find solace at the town of Scarborough, with its fresh fish and seafood brought straight from the market to our plate, or in the market of Portsmouth, where we can sample some delicious fresh oysters.

Regional Specialties – Dairy

Dairy products play many roles in English cuisine. For some freshly made ice-cream, it’s best to visit Southwell in Nottinghamshire. For something really special, however, head straight to Derby, where they serve fresh pyclets made from local milk. Travel to Cumbria’s Thornby Moore Cheese Dairy Company to sample some of England’s finest cheese, and visit Colston Basset Dairy in Nottinghamshire to understand what ‘smelly cheese’ really means. All cheese enthusiasts should also consider the Lancashire Cheese Trail, where you can get a glimpse into the cheese making procedure at Dewlay Cheese.

English Sweet-Tooth

All chocolate lovers will be delighted to know that England boasts a place much in the style of Charlie’s Chocolate Factory – the Cadbury World, literally a mecca for all chocoholics, counting half a million visitors each year. To continue the subject, if you’re a true chocolate fan, you simply must visit York, a city of long history with the delicious cocoa bean that dates back to the 18^th c. For something typically English, try the famous Bakewell Tart, sometimes called Bakewell Pudding, which consists of smooth almond and jam filling enveloped in a light puff pastry.  Delicious!

A Pint of Bliss

Historically, England might be associated with terrible culinary creations (nothing tops the Victorian Brussels sprouts pyramid), but when it comes to beers and ales it’s nothing but a history of success. There are dozens of independent breweries scattered around England, so take your pick: a picturesque glass of beer in the heart of Chilterns or a fresh cider from the Moorhampton Park Farm? Don’t forget about the traditional English pubs, stocked full with some exclusive beer brands. Those to consider are Nottingham’s Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, supposedly the oldest pub in Britain, and London’s The Royal Oak, situated nearby the fictional Tabard Inn of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales.

Markets & Festivals to Watch

Among some of the best shopping experiences in England are its vast and varied markets. Coastline areas are full of the freshest seafood possible, most famously at the Newquay or Portsmouth Fish Market. For some alternative markets, check Isle of Wight’s peculiar Garlic Festival or the exotic Thai Festival held in Bristol. Markets is where you get the most of England’s local produce, so don’t  miss out on shopping at the famous Greenwich or Borough Market, but, if you’re very hungry, head straight to Oxford’s Foodies Festival, a real treat for all foodies alike.

About author: Sophia is an experienced traveller and an expert on British history and customs. Currently, she writes articles for sevenspots.co.uk, a website gathering all the interesting places in England.

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The Beatles Story Liverpool

If you don’t mind walking, pack some comfortable shoes and head to The Beatles Story Liverpool. Perfect for new and old fans alike, this attraction takes you on a journey through the history of the most famous musical act in the world.

The Beatles Story will take you all the way past the time known as Beatlemania, starting in the 50’s when Paul McCartney first met John Lennon. Open 7 days a week, The Beatles Story was named the winner of the 2012 Liverpool Annual Tourism award.

Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum

2012 marked the 200th birthday of Charles Dickens, so it’s a great time to visit the Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum in Portsmouth. The museum is hosting a year-long series of exciting events, aside from the normal attractions. There are 3 recreated rooms in the museum – The dining room, parlour, and the bedroom where Dickens was born. There’s also an exhibition room that contains interesting and authentic memorabilia, including the couch where Charles Dickens died.

Spinnaker Tower

Elsewhere Portsmouth has seen some significant regeneration as of late and this has led to new attractions such as Spinnaker Tower. Spinnaker Tower is located on the harbour of Portsmouth and is over 170 metres high making it the tallest structure outside of London which can be accessed.

The tower is considered a design masterpiece and the observation platforms on the tower give you a panoramic view of the city with 23 miles of viewing distance available on a clear day! In addition to this the tower hosts an array of special events throughout the year such as craft fairs and comedy and music shows. If you want to access the viewing decks of Spinnaker Tower you will need to purchase a ticket which is currently £8.55, however you can print your voucher now whilst planning on your trip and get a 20% discount on the cost of the ticket, giving you more money to spend on afternoon tea in the Café in the Clouds!

The Victoria and Albert Museum

If you’re a museum fan one of the places you will consider a must visit is London, the museum capital of the United Kingdom with museums and art galleries covering a wide array of topics, from natural history to science, fashion and photography. The museums in London, such as The Victoria and Albert Museum not only have their permanent collections but they also host temporary exhibitions throughout the year and checking out the schedule of such events is recommended. These usually come with an additional entry fee and are always popular! Over the summer you will find a David Bowie exhibition which consists of thousands of David Bowie and music memorabilia, handwritten sheets of lyrics and instruments used by David Bowie! A must visit for all music fans heading to London between March and July 2013.

Isles of Scilly

If you’re looking for more of an outdoor adventure, look no further than the Isles of Scilly. There are awe-inspiring sights and activities on each one of the 5 islands that make up this marvellous place.

For a more relaxed time, there are beachfront cafes, arts & crafts, and one of the most gorgeous gardens in Europe – Tresco Abbey Garden. For a more active day, you’ll find plenty of fun sporting activities, such as horse riding, golf, and cycling. There truly is something for everyone on the Isles of Scilly. There are 3 beautiful beaches, Bar Point, Great Bay, and Pelistry that offer beautiful waters and soft white sand. Plenty of historical sights abound the Isles of Scilly, including St. Agnes Lighthouse, erected in 1860 by Trinity House. Aside from the aforementioned attractions, there are restaurants, museums, galleries, and animal park, and much, much more. A visit to the Isles of Scilly will guarantee a good time and great memories.

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