In all of England’s 48 counties, you’re sure to find things that make each of them unique. But which one is the best of them all?
The counties have been measured against 41 indicators, from the number of golf courses to the crime rate, and these tough criteria have revealed England’s best county.
At number one, named England’s best county by the Telegraph, is the gorgeous county of Devon in the south west of England – apparently home to Britain’s “best” natural wonders, rivalling the very best in the world.
Suzy Bennett, destination expert, said: “Holidays in Devon are simple, wholesome, and old-fashioned. A trip here mixes two of life’s loveliest pleasures: delicious food and the great outdoors.”
Devon swooped first place, creating a huge 61-pointer gap between the second-place county, Cumbria. But what is it that earned Devon’s spot of first place?
Most of it has to do with the fact that the county is an all-rounder – the place has everything. From great restaurants to beautiful landscapes, you won’t be disappointed.
In the county, you’ll find two national parks and five national landscapes, which bagged it a huge 110 points. Dartmoor National Park was named a “holiday highlight” for Devon, which is 9.9% tree-covered, according to the Ordnance Survey.
With its 14 beaches along a 495km coastline, Nine RSPB reserves, an RHS garden and a variety of woodland, it’s no surprise that Devon smashed it in in the natural wonders category.
The county also has 177 museums and galleries to explore and 13 English Heritage properties making Devon a county rich in history and culture.
To top things off, it is also home to five Michelin-starred restaurants and Hotel Endsleigh in Tavistock, which is one of the 50 best hotels in the world, according to Telegraph Travel. What beats nice food and a good place to sleep?