Clair from Missouri USA

Hi Clair,

My wife and I were in England in the summer of 2006.  It was a fantastic trip.  We visited a very quaint town called Rye, down near Hastings and not far from Bodium Castle and Battle Abby.  Check it out here on pictures of england to get an idea.  It is really quite neat and not really well known.  You also have to stay in York for a day or two and see the town.  It is the second most popular tourist destination in England after London, of course.  Popular for a good reason too.  It is really historic with its origins dating back before Roman times and York Minster, one of the biggest cathedrals in England is spectacular.  It has also been heavily influenced by Vikings, so pulling in the Norway connection as well.  It is a must see location.  It is also not really that far from the Cotswolds, which you mentioned you will be visiting.  For both locations, see what you can find here on pictures of england in the way of lodging, and if nothing jumps out at you, I can recommend a place in Rye.  I stayed in a hotel in York because all the B&Bs were booked for a horse derby weekend.

We also enjoyed Nottingham, visiting Nottingham Castle, which is no longer a castle, but has great views of the town and very well kept grounds and a neat little walking tour of the underground passage ways under what was the original castle, etc.  We stayed in the Best Western Bestwood Lodge Hotel.(http://www.picturesofengland.com/England/Nottinghamshire/Nottingham/Best_Western_Bestwood_Lodge_Hotel) It was really neat and had an excellent full hot/cold breakfast buffet! ;-)  It was a very reasonable cost as well.

Anyway, a few things to think about.  We saw so many cool places and buildings in England.  You'll enjoy the trip immensely.

Chris

Thanks Chris, 

there is so much to see.  Thankfully England is not as large as the US.  Your suggestions are really appreciated.  Is there anyone else out there that can help me?

Clair