we have a few extra days after our Venice trip before we fly home.. We can either spend the time in Brussels/Brugge or SE England. We have never been to Belgium before. Love history and exploring.. Which should we choose and why?

thanks for any suggestions

Don't know Belgium, though I'd love to go to Brugge sometime. There's lots to see in S/SE England. If you like Roman history, there's Dover Castle and Fishbourne Roman Palace. Moving forward in time, there's Battle, as in Hastings, the Cinq ports (especially cute little Rye), Bodiam and Leeds Castles, the Historic Port at Portsmith with Nelson's ship, HMS victory. Brighton's supposed to be interesting to visit these days.

That's off the top of my head. But will you have a car? It's best to get around this area.

Wow. Those are two of my favorite places. Tough choice.

One thing to consider is Brugge is sometimes called the Venice of the north in that there are lovely canals. So if you think you will have had your fill of canals, go to SE England.

Also, in Sussex you can walk the Downs which might be nice after being in Venice. (Of course it depends on the time of year you are traveling.)

I agree Fishbourne is great and would also recommend Arundel Castle.

Having said all that, Brugge may be my favorite city in Europe.

I may not have been much help at all but you can't go wrong either place.

we will be renting a car in England. Our main trip is in Croatia with a stop off in Venice for a few days.

Middle of May is when we plan on being in Europe.

If the weather permits, the gardens of SE England would provide a nice counterpoint to castles and monuments. I understand there is marvelous hiking to be had along the south coast.
If you are into architecture, brussels and gent have much art nouveau material to be appreciated.
Just relax and wind down after a nice trip.

Brugge is a very beautiful city, and quite unique. Your post makes me think that you have previously visited England and if that is the case then definitely do Brugge. It really is a very different city.

the OP posted the question twice and there are several responses on the other thread as well . . . .