Loading...

The Southeast

TRAVEL GUIDE

The Southeast

TRAVEL GUIDE

Surrey, Kent, and Sussex form the breadbasket of England, where bucolic farmland stretches as far as the eye can see. Once a favorite destination of English nobility, this region is rich with history, visible in the great castles and stately homes that dot the countryside.

Its cities are similarly historic, especially ancient Canterbury, with its spectacular cathedral and medieval streets. Along the coast, funky seaside towns have a more relaxed attitude, especially artsy Brighton, where artists and musicians use the sea as inspiration for their work.

Although it's close to London (both Surrey and Kent reach all the way to London's suburbs) and is one of the most densely populated areas of Britain, the Southeast feels far away from the big city. In Kent, acres of orchards b... Read More

Surrey, Kent, and Sussex form the breadbasket of England, where bucolic farmland stretches as far as the eye can see. Once a favorite destination of English nobility, this region is rich with history, visible in the great castles and stately homes that dot the countryside.

Its cities are similarly historic, especially ancient Canterbury, with its spectacular cathedral and medieval streets. Along the coast, funky seaside towns have a more relaxed attitude, especially artsy Brighton, where artists and musicians use the sea as inspiration for their work.

Although it's close to London (both Surrey and Kent reach all the way to London's suburbs) and is one of the most densely populated areas of Britain, the Southeast feels far away from the big city. In Kent, acres of orchards burst into a mass of pink-and-white blossoms in spring, while Dover's white cliffs and brooding castle have become symbols of coastal Britain. Historic mansions, such as Petworth House and Knole, are major draws for travelers, and lush gardens—such as Vita Sackville-West's Sissinghurst and the Royal Horticultural Society's Wisley—attract thousands to their vivid floral displays.

Because the English Channel is at its narrowest here, a great deal of British history has been forged in the Southeast. The Romans landed in this area and stayed to rule Britain for four centuries. So did the Saxons—Sussex means "the land of the South Saxons." The biggest invasion of them all took place here when William ("the Conqueror") of Normandy defeated the Saxons at a battle near Hastings in 1066, changing the island forever.

Recommended Fodor’s Video

Hotels

Fodor's Choice
Fodor's Choice
Fodor's Choice
Fodor's Choice

Quickly find The Southeast Hotels and compare prices.

Powered by Clicktripz

Find the perfect tours and activities in The Southeast.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Find the best food tours and activities in The Southeast.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Language

English

Nearby Airports

LGW

Electrical Outlets

230v/50 cycles; plugs have three rectangular blades

Currency

Pound

Language

English

Electrical Outlets

230v/50 cycles; plugs have three rectangular blades

Currency

Pound

Nearby Airports

LGW

It's best to visit in spring, summer, or early fall. Many privately owned castles and mansions are open only between April and September or...Read More

Discover the best neighborhoods in The Southeast with curated recommendations from our editors.

Explore All

It's best to visit in spring, summer, or early fall. Many privately owned castles and mansions are open only between April and September or...Read More

Discover the best neighborhoods in The Southeast with curated recommendations from our editors.

Explore All

It's best to visit in spring, summer, or early fall. Many privately owned castles and mansions are open only between April and September or...Read More

Discover the best neighborhoods in The Southeast with curated recommendations from our editors.

Explore All

Our worldwide travel correspondents bring you the best and most up-to-date coverage of over 7,500 global destinations.

Shop Now

Fodor's Essential England
Whether you want to dine in London, marvel at Stonehenge, or explore the Cotswolds, the...

View Details

Fodor's Essential Great Britain: with the Best of England, Scotland & Wales
For over 80 years, Fodor's Travel has been a trusted resource offering expert travel...

View Details