London, with its crowded streets, famous sites and buildings, and diverse population, is truly one of the most active cities in the world. The United Kingdom has several beautiful and calm places that can become great weekend escapes from London. 

Whether you are in the mood for the sea and beach, the countryside, or history, there is a place that can refresh you for a couple of days, and it is not very far away. 

This blog post is a small guide to some of the most recommended weekend escapes from London.

Best time to Visit the Weekend Escapes from London

Best Month to Visit	Best things to do in this weather
January- March (Winter)	Have fun at winter festivals, visit cool indoor places, relax in cozy cafes, and go for walks in pretty places.
April- June (Spring)	See beautiful spring gardens, have picnics outside, go for walks in nature, and enjoy festivals with music and food.
July- September (Summer)	Go to the beach, listen to music at outdoor concerts, eat yummy food at festivals, and try boating and water sports.
October- December (Autumn)	Have fun at winter festivals, visit cool indoor places, relax in cosy cafes, and go for walks in pretty places.

12 Best Weekend Escapes from London 

Here are the top Weekend escapes from London that you must- visit- 

#1 The Peak District

The Peak District is a good destination for weekend escapes from London or other areas. There are charming destinations like Bakewell, renowned for its world-famous tart, and historic sites such as Chatsworth House to explore. The Peak District National Park provides excellent options for hiking and biking, with Blackwell Mill Cycle Hire offering rentals for exploring the area.

For dining, consider enjoying local delicacies such as ale and venison pie at the Devonshire Arms at Beeley. It’s a great way to savor the region’s flavors during your visit. It is recommended that you have a whole day of exploration. Therefore, it is possible to spend the night at The Peacock in Rowsley, which is a rather small old house, but it has comfortable beds.

• Special Features: The first national park in Great Britain, interesting geological sites, long walks and bicycle routes, beautiful villages, limestone dales, and gritstone edges.
• Address: Peak District National Park, Bakewell, DE45 1AE, UK
• Distance from London: ~160 miles
• Official Website: https://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/
• Phone Number: +44 1629 816200
• Google Map Directions: Get Direction

#2 Bath, Somerset

It is a city with historic structures and therapeutic baths that attract visitors. It has a very pleasant temperature, approximately 75–80 km away from London. There are remains of Roman baths and very old and beautiful buildings, including inns, and you can enjoy the natural hot water.

A river where you may take a leisurely walk is also there, as is a museum for a popular writer and a lot of nice stores and eating places. It is always a good destination to visit if you want to have fun and spend a weekend away from London without having to spend a lot of money.

• Special Features: There are bath spas, Greek architecture, bath abbeys, P 77 Pulteney bridges, thermae bath spas, and the Jane Austen Centre.
• Address: Bath, Somerset, BA1, UK
• Distance from London: ~115 miles
• Official Website: https://visitbath.co.uk/
• Phone Number: +44 1225 614420
• Google Map Directions: Get Direction

#3 Brighton

Weekend escapes from London:

1. Go on a fun vacation to Brighton, a beach town in southern England.
2. Begin the insane journey by starting on the Nine Streets of North Laine, where you will be introduced to some creative boutiques and restaurants.
3. Visit the lovely and rather famous Brighton Pavilion in the city. 

Visit the Lanes of Brighton, which are rather narrow; that’s why there are many shops with non-standard concepts and jewellers. Families will enjoy visiting the Sea Life Aquarium and the fun-filled palace pier. Grab a quiet walk to the Promenade to Hove Lawns and the beautiful Bandstand café.

Living in Brighton could not be more exciting because there is something for everyone and there is a very strong cultural and historical side, and it is by the seaside.

• Special Features: Famous seaside resort, vibrant pier, nightlife, Brighton Pavilion, and extensive shopping in The Lanes.
• Address: Brighton, East Sussex, BN1, UK
• Distance from London: ~55 miles
• Official Website: https://www.visitbrighton.com/
• Phone Number: +44 1273 290337
• Google Map Directions: Get Direction

#4 Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland; therefore, it is an ideal destination for weekend escapes from London. It is the city of history and full of life. The Royal Mile, among others, includes the famous Edinburgh Castle, the main tourist attraction of the Scottish country, and the beautiful Palace of Holyhoodhouse, which is the Scottish residence of the Queen. Both these sites are connected by the Royal Mile, which is a famous street in the United Kingdom.

Some of the most famous festivals celebrated in Edinburgh include the official Edinburgh International Festival and the Fringe Festival. The University of Edinburgh is among the educational institutions situated in Edinburgh that contribute significantly to the city’s prestige.

For those who appreciate nature, attractions such as Arthur’s Seat and Princes Street Gardens are highly favoured. Additional notable sites include The National Museum of Scotland, St Giles’ Cathedral, and Calton Hill. Culturally and historically, the city is very developed, nature is also depicted well in the town, and it is more recommended for weekend trips from London.

• Special Features: Historic and cultural capital of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat, and the Edinburgh Festival.
• Address: Edinburgh, EH1, UK
• Distance from London: ~400 miles
• Official Website: https://www.edinburgh.org/
• Phone Number: +44 131 473 3868
• Google Map Directions: Get Direction

#5 Oxford

Oxford provides far more than its renowned university buildings, making it an enticing weekend getaway from London. This historical city is replete with excellent restaurants and bars and lots of places to wander around. It is only an hour by train or one hour by car from the city of Nyon or about a two-hour drive from Geneva airport, a 1.5-hour drive from London.

It will be fun to take time and learn about the historical background of Oxford City through the Ashmolean Museum and the Pitt Rivers Museum. University Parks or Port Meadow are great places to rest after a long day of sightseeing. If you’re looking for a stylish bar, consider The Varsity Club, a rooftop bar offering trendy vibes. Oxford also has markets where one can shop for items. For outdoor activities, you could go for a trek, a bike ride, kayaking, and many more with your friends.

• Special Features: Home to the world-renowned University of Oxford, historic buildings, the Bodleian Library, and the Ashmolean Museum.
• Address: Oxford, OX1, UK
• Distance from London: 60 miles
• Official Website: https://www.experienceoxfordshire.org/
• Phone Number: +44 1865 686430
• Google Map Directions: Get Direction

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#6 Bristol

One of the greatest weekend escapes from London is Bristol, especially for an amazing break. It is in the West Country, and it is just famous for its delicious food and some incredible attractions. They are relatively easy to access if you want to go from London because there are train and coach services that will take you directly there. 

There is a wide array of activities to enjoy in Bristol. You can taste good food in places such as Hart’s or take a bite of Box-E. Some of the special recommendations are the toasties at Bar Buvette or the tapas at Poco Place. But there are entertaining things to watch as well! Visit Clifton Suspension Bridge or look at some graffiti in Stokes Croft. If you dare, you can also sunbathe there and even swim in the restored open-air pool, Lido. 

Whenever you visit, you will find that there is always something happening in Bristol that you can look forward to. Thus, why grab a weekend escape from London and visit this beautiful place to come to conclusions?

• Special Features: Maritime history, vibrant cultural scene, Clifton Suspension Bridge, and the SS Great Britain.
• Address: Bristol, BS1, UK
• Distance from London: ~120 miles
• Official Website: https://visitbristol.co.uk/
• Phone Number: +44 117 946 2200
• Google Map Directions: Get Direction

#7 The Yorkshire Dales

In terms of weekend escapes from London, one of the top destinations to visit is the Dales, which is arguably the United Kingdom’s most recognised national park. It is famous because it is tremendously beautiful and interesting as a drama.

During your weekend there, you can explore the huge Bolton Abbey Estate near Skipton. Bird-watchers will also have something to observe, as both High Rise and Salmon Street station houses have peregrine falcons nesting nearby.

If you have a special affection for food, then this is good news for you, as the Dales are a food lovers’ haven. You should pay attention to the famous Wensleydale Creamery and the brewery in Theakston. To be specific, food pubs are highly recommended, particularly the Black Bull located in Sedbergh. But it is not only a pub; it is an inn as well, meaning that one may decide to spend the night at this place after eating their quality food and drinking their quality alcohol.

• Special Features: Scenic national park, rolling hills, valleys, historic castles, and picturesque villages.
• Address: Yorkshire Dales National Park, North Yorkshire, BD23 5LB, UK
• Distance from London: ~230 miles
• Official Website: https://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/
• Phone Number: +44 300 456 0030
• Google Map Directions: Get Direction

#8 Winchester

When you’re seeking respite from the bustling streets of London and wish to spend a weekend in a tranquil and picturesque setting, Winchester is the ideal destination. Just an hour away by train, Winchester offers a serene atmosphere with numerous historical landmarks and scenic countryside views.

You may visit its cathedral, take a walk through the city on the nicely flowing River Itchen, or explore the city’s past in its museums and monuments. Regardless of whether one is interested in the history of the place, if one loves the natural scenery, or if the person wants to take a vacation in a calm place, Winchester has it all. Then it is high time to pack a bag and head out for the weekend in this romantic city in England.

• Special Features: Historic city, medieval cathedral, Great Hall, and King Arthur’s Round Table.
• Address: Winchester, Hampshire, SO23, UK
• Distance from London: ~70 miles
• Official Website: https://www.visitwinchester.co.uk/
• Phone Number: +44 1962 840500
• Google Map Directions: Get Direction

#9 Cambridge

Are you looking for a perfect destination for a weekend escape from London? It makes Cambridge the best place for this retreat, considering its academic nature alongside the natural beauty it offers. Take a leisurely walk through the stunning college campuses, explore the rich history of King’s College Chapel, and enjoy punting along the serene waters of the River Cam.

Spend more time on the less tourist-popular sights of Cambridge; however, do not miss a trip to the truly marvellous Ely Cathedral in the adjacent town. It is accompanied by beautiful streets, a historical background, and a quiet atmosphere, making Cambridge one of the perfect places for a quiet and enjoyable weekend escape from London.

• Special Features: Prestigious university city, beautiful architecture, the River Cam, and the Fitzwilliam Museum.
• Address: Cambridge, CB2, UK
• Distance from London: ~60 miles
• Official Website: https://www.visitcambridge.org/
• Phone Number: +44 1223 791500
• Google Map Directions: Get Direction

#10 The Cotswolds

So, if you’re looking for a quiet countryside weekend away from the city of London, here are some tips. The Cotswolds is an absolutely beautiful region, just a little further from The Bath. It is about 2 hours by train, but it is worth the trip. Here, you’ll discover picturesque locations that appear on maps worldwide yet remain truly exceptional.

Another significant attraction in the Cotswolds is Bourton-on-the-Water, often dubbed the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds.’ This riverside town is nestled along the River Windrush, winding gracefully through the town with charming bridges that evoke a fairy-tale ambiance. Here are some recommendations containing the general viewpoint of numerous travellers to this remarkable country.

• Special Features: Quintessentially English villages, rolling countryside, historic manor houses, and traditional market towns.
• Address: The Cotswolds, GL54, UK
• Distance from London: ~90 miles
• Official Website: https://www.cotswolds.com/
• Phone Number: +44 1451 862000
• Google Map Directions: Get Direction

#11 North Norfolk

To grasp a good break from the frantic pace of life in the city of London, the county of Norfolk is a great weekend escape. Norfolk offers something for everyone: ideal for hiking, lounging on the beach, and delighting food enthusiasts alike. 

Sightseeing of the sea, small fishermen’s cottages, and birds and animals around this area make it more appropriate for those who need a break, possibly from their stressful working conditions. Hence, if you wish to step out of the city for two days, consider going to Norfolk for the best weekend. 

• Special Features: Sea cliffs, nature reserves, seaside towns, and the Norfolk Broads.
• Address: North Norfolk, NR27, UK
• Distance from London: ~130 miles
• Official Website: https://www.visitnorthnorfolk.com/
• Phone Number: +44 1263 513811
• Google Map Directions: Get Direction

#12 Margate

Are you planning for a short break from the busy schedule of the city of London? There could hardly be a better place to go for the weekends than Margate. Margate is another beautiful town located in Kent, and it is well known for its sandy beaches, beautiful streets, and activities to do. From a peaceful stroll on the Margate Main Sands to exploring the town’s old centre, Margate has something to offer everybody. 

Also, please visit the Turner Contemporary Gallery, where you can always see interesting contemporary art exhibitions. Take a bite of seafood and experience the cliched seaside food and the pampered leisure of this coastal town. Margate consistently captivates visitors with its stunning coastline and vibrant cultural offerings, making it an ideal choice for a weekend getaway from London.

• Special Features: Seaside town, sandy beaches, Turner Contemporary gallery, and Dreamland amusement park.
• Address: Margate, Kent, CT9, UK
• Distance from London: ~75 miles
• Official Website: https://www.visitthanet.co.uk/
• Phone Number: +44 1843 577577
• Google Map Directions: Get Direction

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Conclusion 

London is great, but as we know, sometimes we all need a rest. Luckily, numerous places are nearby to visit for the weekend if you’re seeking a break from your daily routine. Whether you are interested in history, the outdoors, or oceans, there is something to your taste.

The Bath has beautiful architecture and natural thermal water for a relaxing bath. As we are aware, the Cotswolds features some of the most charming villages and picturesque countryside. Cambridge and Oxford are renowned for their historical universities. Additionally, this location boasts a royal connection, as Windsor is the residence of a castle. This place, for instance, has some famous cathedrals referred to as Canterbury. Also, Margate is familiar with art lovers and lovers of the seacoast.

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