I

nvasions, wars and murderous monarchs may not have been much fun at the time, but they certainly provide all the right ingredients for a fascinating history.

England’s turbulent past is still in evidence in the remains of majestic castles and its scarred landscapes. It’s not all doom and gloom; the country houses, churches and cathedrals are among the world’s most beautiful.

Long before there were humans leaving their mark in England, prehistoric sea creatures were happily swimming over various parts of the country. In particular along Dorset’s Jurassic Coast you can now explore a whopping 185 million years of history for yourself with a spot of fossil-hunting in Lyme Regis.

From Dorset head up to Wiltshire and the Neolithic monuments of Stonehenge and Avebury - just how did those druids move those giant stones?

Then head to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath where the Romans constructed the beautiful baths or visit London and admire Sir Christopher Wren’s handiwork.

As you head further north, you’ll see evidence of the Industrial Revolution, more castles, and ancient forests.

When you hit York explore the influence of the Vikings at the Jorvik Viking Centre before hitting Hadrian’s Wall . Walk along and learn about Roman life nearly 2000 years ago at the forts at Vindolanda in Northumberland.

It’s mind-blowing just how much history there is to explore and that’s ignoring the myths and legends that breathe new life into each county.

Even as you stop for a moment to reflect in an oak-beamed pub, you could find yourself inadvertently soaking up 500 years of history.