Weekend getaways can be one of the best types of holidays because you don’t need to use any of your precious leave! You can easily escape the hustle and bustle of London in order to relax and explore some of the beautiful countryside, towns and cities that are within an arms reach of the city. If you’re wondering where your weekend away from London may take you, then here are five fantastic choices that are perfect for a weekend escape!
THE COTSWOLDS: A ROMANTIC WEEKEND AWAY
The Cotswolds would have to be one of the most charming places in England, so much so that it was declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and is only two hours by car from London! This rural region is home to rolling green hills, sweeping meadows, picture perfect villages, dreamy cottages, historical towns, bustling markets and some of the most quintessential British pubs around. The Cotswolds has some of the most unspoilt, historic towns and villages in England and they really are ridiculously charming no matter what time of the year you visit. There’s so many villages to chose from, each with their own unique charm and characteristics and no matter which one you choose, you’ll be planning a trip back as soon as you get home!
PEAK DISTRICT: A WEEKEND OF EXPLORING
The Peak District National Park in central England is approximately a three hour drive from London. It is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in England. It’s an area of contrasting natural beauty, with its moors and dales, rivers, springs and caverns, as well as steep limestone valleys and dramatic ridges. These beautiful natural landscapes make the Peak District one of the finest areas in England for walking. In addition to its natural beauty, the Peak District also has charming market towns and villages, historic houses and plenty of attractions to keep you busy on your weekend getaway!
BATH: A SPA BREAK
Bath is a true hot spot, literally everyone wants to visit and everyone who does visit absolutely loves it. You’ll find Bath just over two hours from London, set in the rolling countryside of southwest England. There’s so much on offer in Bath with beautiful architecture, amazing shopping, boutique hotels, fine dining and 2,000 year old original Roman Baths! In addition to the ancient baths, there’s also the modern, Thermae Bath Spa, which is the only place in the UK that you can bathe in natural, mineral-rich spring-waters, just as the Celts and Romans did over 2,000 years ago! Bath is so special that it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s the perfect weekend escape that will allow you to relax and unwind.
BRIGHTON: A SEASIDE ESCAPE
Brighton is an English seaside resort town that is located about an hour south of London by train. It’s a popular day-trip destination, particularly in Summer but is much better explored with a weekend getaway! Plus, who wouldn’t want to spend a weekend by the seaside? Brighton has a bohemian vibe, with its charming shopping and dining streets which are known as the Lanes. There are many iconic sites such as the Royal Pavillion and of course, the Brighton Pier which was opened in 1899 and is jam-packed with rides, food kiosks and arcades. It’s famous for its nightlife and you can’t leave without having fish & chips on the beach!
OXFORD: A HISTORY WEEKEND
Oxford is a city located in central southern England, about an hour from London that revolves around its prestigious, world-famous university. The city has been nicknamed the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ thanks to the architecture of its 38 colleges in the city’s centre! The city has been home to royalty and scholars for over 800 years and is a wonderful city for a weekend getaway. There’s a fantastic mix of ancient and modern and you’ll love exploring the historic buildings, museums and colleges, checking out the thriving restaurant and bar scene or shopping til you drop! There’s something for everyone in Oxford.
Or maybe you’re from one of these beautiful destinations and are planning a weekend trip to London? If that is the case then why not book a weekend getaway at the sleek and stylish M by Montcalm London, which is located in Shoreditch. We love staying in Montcalm hotels when we visit London and have always been impressed by their style, service and location.
Our opinions are as always, our own.