England has been named one of the world's top countries for travellers in 2020 by leading travel authority Lonely Planet. The country was named in the Best in Travel 2020 guide this year - the annual collection of the best travel destinations, trends, journeys and experiences to have in the year ahead - and was second only to Bhutan in South Asia. Renowned for its wonderful coastline and natural beauty spots, England has plenty to offer for a memorable holiday. Here are the top 20 unmissable experiences in England, as recommended by Lonely Planet.
9. Peak District
Founded in 1951, the Peak District was England's first national park and offers 555 sq miles of sprawling countryside to explore, with many idyllic villages in its midst Photo: Shutterstock
10. Harrogate Afternoon Tea
This traditional tearoom was established in 1919 and has been dishing up delicious speciality cakes, sweet treats and tea for more than 100 years, and never fails to have a line of eager visitors queuing outside its doors Photo: Shutterstock
11. Canterbury Cathedral
With more than 1400 years of Christian history, this stunning gothic cathedral is the highlight of Canterbury's World Heritage Sites and remains one of the top tourist haunts in the south east, as well as a place of worship Photo: Shutterstock
12. Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, Nottingham
Carved into the cliff beneath Nottingham's historic castle, this quirky alehouse claims to be the oldest pub in England. Founded in 1189, the pub boasts several bars and cosy nooks to enjoy a bite to eat or have a few drinks Photo: Shutterstock