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Much more than just rain and men in pinstripe suits, England is home to some of the world’s most famous literary icons and their historical counterparts. Whether you’re after Sherlock or Shakespeare, English culture rarely disappoints.
England is the most populous country of the United Kingdom; the Greater London area has more inhabitants than Scotland and Wales combined. It has some of the most beautiful architecture in the world, from the “dreaming spires” of Oxford to the iconic 'Gherkin' at No.30 St Mary Axe in the City of London.
England’s national history is particularly rich, and has at times been bloody. Though the monarchy no longer plays a great role in the running of the state, England’s kings and queens have left an indelible mark on the history and culture of both their own country and the world at large.
With authors such as Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, England boasts an unparalleled canon of literary greats. Contemporary English fiction, whilst not as lauded as its forebear, has its own list of icons, such as Alan Bennett, Zadie Smith and Ian McEwan.
Many of the best-loved films of the last fifty years have been made or based in England, including Brief Encounter, Bend it Like Beckham and The History Boys. There is a rich musical culture, ranging from Benjamin Britten to Blur and ‘Brit-pop’.