Rome, Athens, Paris and London – these are all capitals which have become bigger, at least in our collective consciousness, than the countries they represent. London, especially, is as multi-layered as the world itself. From theatre or a musical at the West End to a mean curry in Brick Lane, cafe life in Soho and a spot of hectic shopping in Westfield, this city has it all, and then some.

But outside London is a green, sometimes postcard-pretty country that is just waiting to be discovered.

Liverpool

Liverpool’s musical heritage is second to none and the city’s artists have produced more number one singles than any other city. Yet Liverpool is more than just The Beatles – following its status as European Capital of Culture in 2008, the city has been transformed into a cultural, happening hub.

Liverpool’s architecture alone makes it worth visiting – Pier Head, Albert Dock and the Anglican cathedral will make you wish your camera’s memory card had more space. The cathedral itself is staggeringly beautiful – overlooking the Mersey, it’s Britain’s biggest church and the fifth largest in the world.

Once you’ve had your fill of sightseeing, go burn some plastic at Liverpool One or enjoy a Liverpool or Everton game.

Lake District

Samuel Taylor Coleridge, William Wordsworth and all the other Romantic poets celebrated the natural beauty of the Lake District. Here, you’ll certainly be inspired to write a couple of lines because this mountainous region in northwest England is truly enchanting.

Arrive by train to experience the most scenic rail journeys in the country. Then hop on a bike to explore the countryside – British Cycling guides organise tours for travellers of different abilities. You can also go solo and explore on your own. However, given that this is England’s largest national park, you will not see everything on one visit. It’s best to stick to one area and enjoy the little details. The village of Bowness-on-Windermere is especially beautiful – apart from sightseeing, you can also enjoy sailing and watersports.

Cornwall

Chef Rick Stein has turned the pretty Cornish harbour of Padstow into a popular landmark. Yet Cornwall, thanks to its pretty villages, cute little cafes and gorgeous sea was already beautiful well before Stein’s time.

Not only that, but Cornwall has always enjoyed a rich culinary tradition. Make sure you’re hungry when you visit because this foodie peninsula is famous for its meat, fresh fish and seafood. Moreover, Cornish fruits and berries make exceptionally good pastries.

Dorset

This county in southwest England has a lot working in its favour, especially its vicinity to the English Channel coast and its beautiful views.

The proverbial cherry on the cake is the famous Dorset cider. In recent years, various local producers and brewers have rediscovered the county’s taste for artisan cider and are serving it to the eager visitors. It’s best to sample your way through the offerings as Dorset produces tens of cider varieties, from dry and clean to medium-sweet and full bodied. It’s good, and tasty, to keep local traditions alive.