The Most Beautiful County in England, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the county you think is the most beautiful!

Updated on Apr 28, 2024 06:18

In a land famed for its picturesque villages, lush green landscapes, and historic sites, pinpointing the most stunning county can spark engaging discussions and friendly debates. By ranking each county based on public opinion, we can collectively identify which spots truly capture the hearts of locals and visitors alike. This offers a unique opportunity to shine a spotlight on areas that might not always get the recognition they deserve. Voting in this list allows you to have your say in championing your favorite county's beauty, contributing to a dynamic crowd-sourced guide that helps others know where to find the most breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. As votes pour in and rankings shift, it also provides a fresh perspective on well-known and lesser-known regions, encouraging exploration and appreciation of England's diverse landscapes.

What Is the Most Beautiful County in England?

1

29
votes
Cumbria

Known for its stunning Lake District National Park, Cumbria boasts breathtaking landscapes, picturesque towns, and charming villages.
Cumbria is a stunning county located in the North West of England, known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse natural beauty. Renowned for the Lake District National Park, Cumbria offers picturesque lakes, towering mountains, and charming villages rich in history and culture.

Lake District National Park: Covering 2,362 square kilometers, it is one of the most famous national parks in the UK, offering stunning lakes, fells, and valleys.

Scafell Pike: The highest peak in England, standing at 978 meters, attracting hikers and climbers from around the world.

Hadrian's Wall: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches 73 miles across Cumbria, showcasing ancient Roman history and stunning views.

Windermere: The largest lake in England, spanning over 18 square kilometers, providing opportunities for boating, water sports, and scenic walks.

Carlisle Castle: A medieval fortress with a rich history, serving as a strategic stronghold for centuries.
2

19
votes
Devon

From its rugged coastline to its rolling hills, Devon is a county of contrasting landscapes. It's home to some of England's most stunning beaches, quaint fishing villages, and historic towns.
Devon is a stunning county located in South West England. With its lush countryside, breathtaking coastline, and charming towns and villages, Devon offers a diverse and picturesque landscape that captivates visitors. The county is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Dartmoor National Park: Devon is home to Dartmoor National Park, a vast moorland known for its rugged beauty, ancient ruins, and dramatic landscapes.

Exmoor National Park: Exmoor National Park, located in North Devon and Somerset, offers a diverse range of landscapes, including towering cliffs, sandy beaches, and rolling hills.

Jurassic Coast: Devon's coastline includes a significant section of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geological significance and stunning rock formations.

Picture-perfect villages: Devon is dotted with picturesque villages, such as Clovelly, Dartmouth, and Lynton, where charming cobblestone streets, thatched cottages, and scenic harbors create a quintessentially English atmosphere.

Beaches and seaside resorts: Devon boasts a plethora of beautiful sandy beaches and popular seaside resorts, including Torquay, Paignton, and Sidmouth, where visitors can enjoy sunbathing, water sports, and coastal walks.
3

14
votes
Cornwall

With its rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and wild moorlands, Cornwall is a county of outstanding natural beauty. Its picturesque fishing villages and historic landmarks add to its charm.
Cornwall is a picturesque region located in the southwestern part of England. It is known for its stunning coastline, charming fishing villages, and rich cultural heritage. The landscape of Cornwall is diverse, ranging from rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to rolling hills and picturesque countryside. Its natural beauty has inspired artists, writers, and filmmakers for centuries. Cornwall offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and relaxation, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

Geography: Located in southwestern England

Coastline: Stunning and rugged

Fishing Villages: Charming and picturesque

Cultural Heritage: Rich and diverse

Landscape: Varied and beautiful
4

19
votes
Yorkshire

With its vast countryside, rugged coastline, and historic cities, Yorkshire is a county that has it all. From the wilds of the North York Moors to the cosmopolitan cities of Leeds and Sheffield, there's something for everyone.
Yorkshire is a stunning county located in the northern part of England. It is known for its breathtaking landscapes, charming countryside, and vibrant cities. From rolling hills to rugged coastlines, Yorkshire offers a diverse and captivating natural beauty. The county encompasses historical sites, picturesque villages, and world-renowned cultural attractions. Yorkshire is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, literature lovers, and history buffs alike.

Yorkshire Dales National Park: A vast and scenic national park characterized by iconic limestone landscapes, charming villages, and cascading waterfalls.

Yorkshire Moors: Majestic moorland stretching across acres of heather-covered hills and valleys, providing visitors with stunning panoramic vistas.

York Minster: A magnificent Gothic cathedral in the city of York, showcasing brilliant stained glass windows and intricate architectural details.

Whitby Abbey: A hauntingly beautiful ruined abbey situated on a cliff overlooking the charming town of Whitby and the North Sea.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park: An open-air museum displaying contemporary sculptures amidst a picturesque landscape of fields, lakes, and woodland.
5

15
votes
Somerset

Known for its rolling hills, historic landmarks, and quaint villages, Somerset is a county of idyllic countryside and stunning landscapes. It's also home to some of England's most famous landmarks, such as Glastonbury Tor and Cheddar Gorge.
Somerset is a picturesque county in England known for its stunning landscapes and rich history. It is located in the southwestern part of the country and is bordered by Bristol to the north, Dorset to the southeast, and Devon to the southwest. The county is known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and beautiful coastline.

Area: 4,167 square kilometers

Population: 559,000

Main Cities: Taunton, Bath, Yeovil, Bridgwater

Historical Sites: Glastonbury Abbey, Wells Cathedral, Dunster Castle

Natural Features: Exmoor National Park, Mendip Hills, Cheddar Gorge
6

11
votes
Norfolk

With its long stretches of sandy beaches, picturesque villages, and tranquil countryside, Norfolk is a county of outstanding natural beauty. It's also home to some of England's most important historic landmarks, such as Norwich Cathedral and Sandringham Estate.
Norfolk is a vibrant city located in the state of Virginia, offering a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Situated at the heart of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, Norfolk is known for its picturesque waterfront views, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic arts scene.

Population: Approximately 242,803 residents

Size: Approximately 66 square miles

Waterfront: Norfolk boasts an impressive waterfront along the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay

Historical Attractions: Home to historical sites such as the USS Wisconsin, Norfolk Naval Station, and the Hermitage Museum and Gardens

Culture and Arts: A thriving arts community with museums, theaters, and vibrant festivals
7

10
votes
Northumberland

With its rugged coastline, rolling hills, and historic landmarks, Northumberland is a county of breathtaking natural beauty. It's also home to some of England's most important historic sites, such as Hadrian's Wall and Bamburgh Castle.
Northumberland is a picturesque county located in the northeastern part of England. It is known for its stunning landscapes, ancient castles, and breathtaking coastlines. The region offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and tranquility, making it one of the most beautiful areas in England.

Kielder Water & Forest Park: Europe's largest man-made lake surrounded by picturesque forests.

Hadrian's Wall: An iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans 73 miles across the county.

Bamburgh Castle: A majestic castle perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Northumberland coastline.

Farne Islands: A group of stunning islands known for their rich wildlife, including thousands of puffins and seals.

Holy Island of Lindisfarne: A tidal island famous for its picturesque Abbey and historic ruins.
8

8
votes
Dorset

Known for its stunning Jurassic Coast, picturesque countryside, and charming towns and villages, Dorset is a county of outstanding natural beauty. It's also home to some of England's most historic landmarks, such as Corfe Castle and Lulworth Cove.
Dorset is a picturesque county located in Southwest England, known for its stunning coastline, rolling hills, and charming villages. It offers a diverse landscape with a mixture of natural beauty and historical landmarks. The county is famously associated with the Jurassic Coast, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans over 95 miles and showcases breathtaking cliffs, hidden coves, and ancient fossils.

Location: Southwest England

Coastline: Stunning and diverse

Jurassic Coast: UNESCO World Heritage Site

Landscape: Rolling hills and picturesque villages

Natural Beauty: Breathtaking cliffs and hidden coves
9

10
votes
Suffolk

With its picturesque villages, rolling countryside, and stunning coastline, Suffolk is a county of rare beauty. It's also home to some of England's most important historic landmarks, such as Sutton Hoo and Framlingham Castle.
Suffolk is a picturesque county located in East Anglia, England. It is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, charming market towns, and rich history. The county offers a perfect blend of beautiful countryside, idyllic coastlines, and quaint villages, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Area: 3,801 square kilometers

Population: approximately 760,000

County town: Ipswich

Coastline length: 50 miles (80 kilometers)

Notable rivers: Stour, Orwell, Waveney
10

9
votes
Warwickshire

Home to some of England's most important historic landmarks, such as Warwick Castle and Shakespeare's Birthplace, Warwickshire is a county of great beauty and heritage. It's also home to picturesque towns, charming villages, and idyllic countryside.
Warwickshire, located in the West Midlands region of England, is often considered one of the most beautiful counties in the country. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and charming towns, Warwickshire offers a diverse range of attractions for locals and tourists alike.

Stratford-upon-Avon: Birthplace of William Shakespeare and home to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Warwick Castle: Medieval castle offering history, grand architecture, and beautiful gardens.

Coventry Cathedral: A striking example of modern architecture and a symbol of hope and reconciliation.

Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty: Spectacular rolling hills, picturesque villages, and breathtaking landscapes.

Rugby: The birthplace of Rugby football and home to the Rugby School.

Missing your favorite county?

Graphs

Discussion

Ranking factors for beautiful county

Natural beauty

The landscape and scenic views in the county, such as rolling hills, picturesque countryside, coastline, national parks, and areas of outstanding natural beauty.
Wildlife and biodiversity

The variety and abundance of plants, animals, and other organisms in the county, as well as the presence of nature reserves, protected areas, and conservation projects.
Historical and cultural landmarks

The presence of historical buildings, castles, heritage sites, and museums that showcase the county's history and culture.
Architecture and urban design

The aesthetic appeal and historic value of the county's towns, villages, and cities, including the layout of streets, building designs, and public spaces.
Accessibility and outdoor activities

The availability of outdoor activities and facilities such as hiking and biking trails, sports facilities, and water-based activities that help people enjoy and appreciate the county's natural beauty.
Climate

The overall weather patterns and climate suitability for outdoor activities, with consideration for comfortable temperatures, rainfall levels, and seasonal variations.
Sustainability and environmental friendliness

Conservation efforts, recycling initiatives, availability of renewable energy sources, and overall environmental attitude of the county's authorities and residents.
Local amenities and facilities

The availability and quality of pubs, restaurants, cafes, shops, and accommodations that serve both locals and tourists.
Transport and accessibility

The ease of reaching the county by various modes of transportation, such as roads, railways, and public transport, as well as the convenience of getting around within the county.
Safety and community

The overall feeling of safety, cleanliness, and community spirit in the county, as well as the friendliness of locals and the offering of community events and activities.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful county in England. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or county is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2855 views
127 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each county once every 24 hours. The rank of each county is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Trendings topics

Don't miss out on the currently trending topics of StrawPoll Rankings!

Travel

The Most Difficult Professional Examination: Ranking the Toughest Challenges

More information on most beautiful county in england

England is a country that boasts a diverse range of counties with their own unique beauty and charm. Each county has its own distinct characteristics, from rolling hills and valleys to rugged coastlines and quaint villages. With so many stunning counties to choose from, it's no wonder that people have different opinions on which one is the most beautiful. It's worth noting that beauty is subjective and can mean different things to different people. Some may find the architecture and history of a county to be the most beautiful aspect, while others may be drawn to its natural scenery and landscapes. Despite this, there are a few counties that consistently top the lists of the most beautiful in England. These include the likes of Cornwall, the Lake District, Devon, Yorkshire, and Sussex, amongst others. Each of these counties offers its own unique beauty, from the rugged coastline of Cornwall to the picturesque villages of the Lake District. Ultimately, the most beautiful county in England is a matter of personal preference. Whether you prefer the rolling hills of the countryside or the rugged coastline of the coast, there is a county in England that will capture your heart and leave you in awe of its beauty.