Desperate to flee the city for some well-needed rest and relaxation? Or just simply wanting to explore somewhere new? Fortunately, the Capital serves as the perfect platform for exploring a wide variety of destinations across the UK.
It’s to no surprise that London provides residents and tourists with an endless list of activities to do and landmarks to see, but escaping the London bubble will provide you with new experiences otherwise ignored.
With trains to London running around the clock, it’s never been easier to getaway for the day. To inspire you to breakaway from the routine of the city, here are four UK destinations easily reachable from London.
Bath and the Cotswolds
The glorious city of Bath and the surrounding rural area of the Cotswolds is the epitome of escaping to the country. Transformed by the Romans into England’s first spa resort, the entirety of Bath is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city’s unique golden-stone architecture, including an astonishing 5000 listed buildings such as the Royal Crescent, sets it apart from other UK locations.
Take the opportunity to unwind in the Roman Baths, or venture into the perfect representation of the English countryside, the Cotswolds. Here, you will be met with lush rolling pastures and countless country pubs. If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, the Cotswolds are said to be reimagined in JRR Tolkien’s ‘The Shire’.
Brighton
Journey south to the coast to reach Brighton, the cosmopolitan city where a traditional seaside resort meets a modern cultural hub. Wander down Brighton’s pier towards a myriad of arcade games, classic fairground rides, and of course… the age-old favourite fish and chip shops.
Spend an afternoon strolling through The Lanes, the city’s art district, where the narrow cobbled streets overflow with independent coffee shops and boutiques. Brighton is also renowned for its incredible selection of bookshops and vintage stores, so be prepared for some serious window shopping!
Cambridge
A renowned centre of academic excellence and home to a world-class university, Cambridge is an architectural spectacle, with stunning patterned brickwork colleges dotted around the city. However, the city’s global reputation for its beauty and brains surpasses just the University.
Relax on a Punt Tour along the River Cam to truly appreciate the beauty of the city from the riverside, and once you’ve finished exploring the history of the university town, enjoy a famous Chelsea bun from a Cambridge staple, Fitzbillies.
Canterbury
Less than an hour from London by train is the historic city of Canterbury. At the heart of the medieval settlement sits the awe-inspiring Cathedral, dating back to the 11th century. Visitors are welcome all year round, and it continues to serve as a popular pilgrimage site.
Canterbury’s deep-rooted history lends itself to being a site for literary influence too, with Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and Dickens’ David Copperfield both taking inspiration from the walled city.
So, if you are keen to spend a day away from the hustle and bustle of London, rest assured there are plenty of day trips for you to make the most of.