Weekend Getaways Breaks from London
If you are tired of London, you’re tired of life—but surely he’d agree there’s nothing wrong with a weekend getaway. And it helps that within just an hour or two of the city, it’s possible to visit the dreaming spires of Oxford, the beachfront promenade of Brighton, the quaint villages of the Cotswolds, and the ancient ruins—not to mention modern-day Bridgerton filming locations—of Bath.
So, for a change of pace (and an opportunity to explore some of England’s most picturesque corners), embark on one of these top weekend getaways from London.
Brighton
54 miles (87 kilometers) from London
One of southern England’s liveliest beachfront cities—as well as the unofficial LGBTQ capital of the UK—Brighton’s year-round festive feel makes it a natural fit for a weekend getaway. After exploring the vintage stores, arty boutiques, and cute cafés of the Lanes, enjoy an evening spent crawling among the city’s lively bars, pubs, and clubs. A rejuvenating walk along the nearby Seven Sisters—a series of iconic chalk cliffs—should be just the thing to puncture your hangover the day after.
Oxford
56 miles (90 kilometers) from London
Erudite Oxford, the City of the Dreaming Spires, is home to one of the world’s foremost universities—but you don’t need to be a student to appreciate its charms. Whatever your age and stage, it’s worth exploring Oxford University’s history-saturated grounds, including individual colleges and highlights such as the Bodleian Library and Ashmolean Museum, as well as Harry Potter-centric tours which reveal another side of the hallowed institution. And if the weather holds, a picnic followed by a punting excursion is a must.
Canterbury
61 miles (98 kilometers) from London
With its Roman-built city walls, its magnificent (and UNESCO-listed) cathedral, and its Chaucerian associations, Canterbury is suffused with historical and literary significance—but while it’s just a quick trip from London, it’s often unfairly overlooked by international travelers. So, make a note to seek out Canterbury’s charms—from its winding shopping streets to its cutesy tearooms—and consider venturing into the surrounding countryside on a ramble. (Kent is the “garden of England,” after all.)
The Cotswolds
76 miles (122 kilometers) from London
When you think “English countryside,” the image that springs to mind is probably one that’s exemplified by the Cotswolds—rolling green hills, ancient villages, thatched-roof cottages, and no shortage of sheep. The Cotswolds are an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for a reason, and the sizeable region’s many highlight hubs—including Cirencester, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Burford, and more—each offer their own charms.
Stratford-upon-Avon
104 miles (167 kilometers) from London
Stratford-upon-Avon is inextricable from its native son—William Shakespeare was a former resident, and you can spend a whole weekend visiting the local landmarks that relate to his life, from Shakespeare’s Birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s House to Shakespeare’s New Place and Hall’s Croft. Immerse yourself in the historical ambiance before seeing the Bard’s works performed live by the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Bath
121 miles (195 kilometers) from London
Just ask the folks who named the entire city a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1987: Bath’s charms are legion. Its highlights are both historical (such as its Roman baths, and the Georgian splendor of its Royal Crescent) and modern (Bridgerton is shot in the city, while the Thermae Bath Spa makes it possible to paddle in those storied thermal waters). This hilly, honey-colored city rewards wandering, in other words, and a walking tour offers an excellent introduction.