Hi from Rick: England’s “Wow” Moments
On a recent visit to (old) York, I made my way to the town's grand, Gothic Minster as the bells chimed five o'clock. The cathedral had already closed to tourists for the day, but I was still ready and rarin' to experience it in action.
Walking around to the side door, I joined a small group — a mix of locals and travelers — waiting to be admitted for daily evensong. Just before 5:30, the doors opened, and we were led into the vast church and up to the choir — the beloved collection of ornate wooden stalls that creates an intimate gathering space at the core of that grand structure. After taking a seat and a breath, I settled in…gazing up at the vaulted ceiling and stained-glass windows high above me. As the red-and-white-robed choir members entered, one of England's most beautiful and accessible traditions began.
Evensong — that venerable pillow of musical praise — is one of my favorite British experiences. Meant to mark the transition from busy day into peaceful evening, this short service — where scripture is sung, not spoken — is an Anglican fixture that goes back hundreds of years, and is still offered daily by many churches. It's free, open to all (regardless of faith), and a great way for any traveler to take a break from the bustle of sightseeing, slow down, and connect with England.
It can be powerful, too. Sitting there in the great York Minster, as timeless harmonies filled the cathedral, I realized that I wasn't just hearing prayers, scripture, or the word of God. I was listening to music in situ: performed in the very place it was originally meant to be heard — and has been for centuries. Whether you're religious or not, that's enough to swizzle your soul.
England seems to specialize in such "wow" moments. From quirky-yet-unforgettable museums, cozy pubs, and storybook villages to stormable castles, mysterious megaliths, and friendly people who always seem up for a chat (and hey, you already speak their language), this country makes tour organizing a joy. If any of this sounds like your cup of tea, may I propose experiencing England on a Rick Steves tour. We offer three itineraries, including a week in bustling London, a two-week English mix of big-city thrills and small-town charms (with a bit of Wales), and 13 days spent mostly in seaside villages along England's south coast.
And now is a great time to book. Not only are many of us starting to dream up travel plans for 2026, but our annual Season's Givings campaign is about to begin. From November 24 through December 31, for every seat you book on any 2026 tour, we'll donate $100 to an important cause on your behalf. (You choose: the ACLU, Doctors Without Borders, the Rick Steves' Europe Climate Smart Fund, or a collection of nonprofits helping provide experiences abroad to students from underserved communities.) Just sign up, pick your organization, and enjoy the thought that you're giving our world a little "love thy neighbor" — global-style — for the holidays.
In this month's Tour News, you can learn more about England's magical moments directly from recent tour members, hop aboard our Best of London tour and our Best of England tour with colorful day-by-day slideshows, meet one of our Blue Badge guides Robert Halkett, and slow down to enjoy evensong at Wells Cathedral.
Whenever you're next heading to Europe, I hope you'll consider making us at Rick Steves' Europe part of your plans. Until then, I wish you a happy Thanksgiving, and a jolly good start to the holidays.
Cheerio,
Rick