The Best Relaxing Weekend Breaks From London In The UK
There are so many fantastic short breaks in the UK that you could spend a lifetime exploring without ever leaving the United Kingdom.
From gorgeous historic towns to incredible experiences in the great outdoors, the UK truly has a weekend away from London to cater for every taste.
I’ve convinced a bunch of excellent travel bloggers to share their recommendations for the best short breaks in the UK to help inspire you for your next getaway.
Bath
The beautiful town of Bath is the only city in the UK to be wholly UNESCO World Heritage listed, making it one of the best short breaks in the UK from London.
The quintessential Bath weekend has to involve a visit to the stunning Roman Baths that have been a significant site in the town for centuries. Whilst you cannot bathe at the Roman Baths, you can also pop into a local spa in town to treat yourself to some holistic geothermal wellness.
Bath is a beautiful city to wander around in with many gorgeous Georgian-style buildings. The Royal Crescent is a favourite Instagram spot, with a curved crescent of identical houses that have been featured in many movies over the years. The Bath Abbey is similarly a must-visit and it’s spires are easily recognisable as soon as you enter the town.
Finally, explore the history of Jane Austen, whose time in Bath heavily influenced her writings. The Jane Austen centre is a great source of information on Austen’s time in the city as well as giving visitors the opportunity to dress up in some Pride & Prejudice-era clothes.
Bath is easily accessible by rail or car, and a trip there on the train will take around two hours making it one of the best short breaks in the UK.
Contributed by me – Emma Jane Explores
Brighton
Brighton is the perfect weekend trip from London and one of the best short breaks in the UK. After a short 90-minute train ride, you’re at England’s southern coast!
The change in atmosphere in Brighton compared to London is unbeatable. Brighton is far more laid back, so it is the perfect destination to relax and unwind for the weekend.
You can easily spend your entire weekend in Brighton soaking up the sun along the Brighton seafront or renting a bike and cycling around the coast.
You need to leave time for some sightseeing though.
The Royal Pavilion was George VI’s seaside home. It belongs to the City of Brighton now, and they’ve done an incredible job of refurbishing the palace to make restore it as close to its original state as possible.
The Lanes are the best place to grab a bite to eat and window shop. The area is full of alleyways lined with local shops and restaurants. It is an unmissable part of Brighton!
Contributed by Erica from Travels With Erica
Bristol
If you’re looking for a fantastic weekend break from London, you can’t go wrong with Bristol. Located in the west of England and easily reached by bus or train from the capital, you can visit Bristol as a day trip, however, it is infinitely better to give this cool and edgy city a couple of days to really do it justice.
Bristol is located roughly 120 miles from Central London and you can get there in about 2-3 hours by train, making it a very accessible city for a short break from London. Once you’re there, there are countless cool things to see and do in the city.
If you’re interested in art, Bristol is heaven for those who are fans of street art. Known to be the home of Banksy, there are countless beautiful murals and pieces throughout the city to view. If you’re interested in history, head to the Bristol Cathedral, the SS Great Britain or to the fantastic M Shed Museum.
Bristol also has a fantastic food and craft beer scene. Head to St Nicholas’ Market for some street eats or to Wapping Wharf for a trendy eatery of a craft brewery.
All in all, if you’re looking for one of the best short breaks in the UK , look no further than Bristol!
Contributed by Maggie from The World Was Here First
Camber Sands
Camber Sands is a beautiful beach located in East Sussex, on the South Coast of England. Famous for its seven glorious miles of soft golden sand, it’s the perfect destination for a seaside break outside of London. Camber can be reached from London by train in just over an hour from London St Pancras to the nearby town of Rye, making it one of the easiest short breaks in the UK to get to.
There are plenty of things to do in Camber Sands, whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or an adrenaline-fuelled adventure. For something active, try one of the many watersports on offer, including kitesurfing, sailing, and paddle boarding. Off the water, go beachcombing (popular with kids), cycling, or for a long sunset stroll along the beach.
For some award-winning cuisine, try the modern British menu at The Gallivant. Located next to the sand dunes, it is in a fantastic location. The nearby town of Rye offers a whole variety of accommodation, from medieval hotels to cosy Airbnbs. Or if you prefer to be closer to the ocean, then there are a number of self-catering options in Camber Sands itself.
Contributed by Jessie from Pocket Wanderings
Cambridge
Cambridge is one of the most beautiful cities in England and one of the best short breaks in the UK. You can visit some of the world’s most famous universities, marvel at historic architecture and get lost in narrow cobblestone streets.
If you’re looking for a day trip from London to relax and explore, Cambridge is the perfect destination. Home to prestigious universities such as King’s College and Trinity Hall, Cambridge is an intellectual hub with beautiful architecture that will make anyone feel like they’ve stepped back in time. It’s also been at the forefront of scientific discovery for centuries.
There are plenty of things to do during your stay but make sure to see King’s College Chapel and The Backs. King’s College Chapel was built between 1446 and 1515 and founded by King Henry VI who wanted to create an imitation of St Peter’s Basilica from Rome. The stained glass windows were designed by John Hayward (1693 – 1766) and depict scenes from Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus and Numbers.
For the more adventurous traveller there are plenty of museums and galleries to explore (most of which are some of the best free things to do in Cambridge). This includes the Fitzwilliam Museum which has an Egyptian section or Darwin Centre where you can learn all about evolution.
For food lovers, be sure to check out Fitzbillies for a fabulous brunch and for nature lovers, head to Paradise Nature reserve or Coe Fen. Either way, from the iconic university to its quaint little pubs, Cambridge is one of the best short breaks in the UK from London.
Contributed by Alice from Adventures of Alice
The Cotswolds
If you thought Cornwall was outstanding for a weekend getaway, The Cotswolds, an AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), that is located about 100 miles from London gives it tough competition and may just be one of the best short breaks in the UK!
The city of Bath is located just on its outskirts; however, the town of Castle Combe in Chippenham is the most popular and closest to London.
The Cotswolds is famous for its old towns and stone-built villages, making for fascinating and picturesque walks, no matter which town you choose to stay in or explore.
Broadway Tower, The Cotswolds Distillery, the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway are some attractions in the area, in addition to numerous historical Churches and gardens that you can visit.
There are numerous restaurants in the Cotswolds, but the area is more famous for its tea rooms. The Riverside cafe at Burton on the water and Rococo garden cafe at Painswick are popular.
You can choose to spend a day here or even stay overnight over the weekend, in which case, pick any of the villages in the area as each is stunning! Some options are the villages of Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, Cirencester, Stow-on-the-Wold and Painswick.
Contributed by Lavina from Continent Hop
Durdle Door & Dorset
One of the best short breaks in the UK that you can take from London is to Durdle Door, a stunning beach located on the Jurassic coastline in Dorset. Durdle Door is around 130 miles from London, and it’d take around 2 hours and 45 minutes to reach there by car.
Durdle Door is known for its beautiful stone arch standing in the water right in front of the beach. This ancient stone arch makes the beach incredibly picturesque and is bound to take your breath away. Be sure to bring good camera gear, such as some wide-angle lenses for Sony a7III, to capture this postcard-worthy landscape.
Aside from admiring the beautiful views and relaxing at the beach, you can also go hiking, coasteering and rock-pooling at Durdle Door. If you have extra time, be sure to stop by some other nearby attractions on the Jurassic Coast, such as Corfe Castle, Lulworth Cove, and the secluded Mupe Bay.
There’s a large variety of amazing accommodation options at Durdle Door. The Premium Sea View Holiday Home offers stunning views of the sea, as does the Horizon Heights Villa. For a different kind of experience, you can even glamp in the Skylight Cabins or stay in the Durdle Door Camping Pods surrounded by nature.
Contributed by Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad
Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park sprawls across West Somerset and much of East Devon, its coastline bordering on the Bristol Channel. It’s one of the best national parks in the country because it has a wonderful mix of both moorland and coastline.
There are so many things to do in Exmoor. You can hike the entire coast – it’s part of the South West Coastal Path. The coastline is beautiful and dramatic, terminating in the striking Valley of the Rocks.
There are also inland hikes, such as Dunkery Beacon which is the highest point in Somerset. From here you can see all over the national park and beyond!
Exmoor is also beloved for its charming villages. Porlock is located in Somerset and has a wonderful Weir, or you could go back in time at Dunster Castle. There are also loads of things to do in Lynton and Lynmouth, including the country’s only water-powered funicular railway.
There are plenty of guesthouses in Lynmouth and a few others dotted around the park, as well as some campsites and caravan sites; Porlock Holiday Park is a favourite.
Exmoor is about 180 miles or 290 kilometres from London. It takes about three hours to drive there, and you do need a car to explore the park. For nature lovers, this is one of the best short breaks in the UK.
Contributed by Claire from Go South West England
Glastonbury & Wells
Glastonbury and Wells in Somerset make the perfect short break from London. The area is located 2hours or 120 miles from London and is an easy drive down the M4 and M5.
Wells is the smallest city in England and has a beautiful cathedral and fortified Bishop’s Palace complete with moat and resident swans.
Within sight of Wells is Glastonbury. Best known for its summer musical festival this new age town has a unique feel as you wander down the high street. There is an ancient abbey which legend has it is the burial place of King Arthur and Guinevere. Overlooking the town is the imposing Glastonbury Tor with the ruined church tower at the top.
Not far from Glastonbury and Wells is Cheddar Gorge. This is the deepest gorge in England and has a scenic drive on the road that runs through it. At the bottom of the gorge is a small village and an extensive cave system that can be explored.
A weekend in Somerset would not be complete without trying out the Cheddar Cheese and cider, both of which can be found all over the area.
Contributed by Suzanne from Meandering Wild
Leeds
Leeds might not spring to mind as an obvious weekend trip from London but it can be reached in only 2 hours by train from Kings Cross making it one of the most accessible short breaks in the UK.
Leeds is known as a thriving northern city that is bubbling with activity. It is a popular destination thanks to the unique combination of exciting activities and cheap northern prices!
But it’s not just the cost of a pint you’ll get at a bargain. The top attractions in Leeds are completely free to enter!
Royal Armouries in Leeds Dock spans 5 floors and could easily fill an entire day of your visit. The highlight of the collection is the elephant armour – the only one in any public collection in the world!
At Leeds city museum, you can learn about the history of Leeds and right around the corner you will find Leeds Art Gallery, renowned for its collection of 20th-century British Art. Neither of these attractions will cost you a penny!
Leeds is also known for a great selection of places to dine. If you’re not sure what you fancy, check out the street food vans in Trinity Kitchen for an ever-changing selection of dishes from around the world!
Contributed by Hannah from Get Lost Travel Blog
Manchester
One of the best short breaks in the UK from London is the lively and friendly city of Manchester. You can reach Manchester by train from London Euston Station in only 2 hours 10-minutes or by car in 4 hours. Manchester is known for its iconic football teams, its trendy music scene, and many exciting attractions.
The best attractions include exploring the Northern Quarter’s street art, independent shops and fabulous brunch spots (try Evelyn’s), or learning at Manchester’s exciting and free museums. The best of these include the Science and Industry Museum, The Imperial War Museum North and Manchester Museum.
You can go on a football stadium tour to see the mighty Manchester United or Manchester City’s field of dreams. Alternatively you can shop, walk around Castlefield’s canals or admire the grand Manchester Cathedral.
Finally, some great places to eat in the city include Mackie Mayors, full of independent food stalls or Noi Quattro for the best pizza in the city. Stay at Kings Street Townhouse to enjoy their infinity pool looking over the city!
Contributed by Rachel from Average Lives
Newcastle upon Tyne
Newcastle upon Tyne, the jewel of the UK’s north east, makes a perfect, fun-packed weekend trip from London, 247 miles to the south.
Boasting a historic Georgian core, a thriving cultural agenda and an attractive quayside, the main challenge of spending a weekend in Newcastle is deciding what to do.
If you fancy yourself as a culture vulture, head to the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art. For a bracing seaside walk, take the short train ride to Tynemouth and then walk to Whitley Bay, just a few of the sensational beaches along the Northumberland coast.
Newcastle is also the jumping off point for the wild Northumberland countryside and Hadrian’s Wall, and the historic city of Durham is a short train ride away. Finally, no visit to Newcastle itinerary would be complete without stopping by the iconic Angel of the North.
Book a room at the Staybridge Suites, an aparthotel one block from the quayside, which provides complimentary breakfast and tea and coffee served with a smile.
Contributed by Bridget from The Flashpacker
North Norfolk Coast
The North Norfolk Coast is a perfect weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of London. Of course, there are the pristine beaches, but the coast has much more to offer.
Base yourself about 140 miles from London in the Victorian seaside resort town of Cromer, famous for its pier and crabs. It’s one of Norfolk’s blue flag beaches. While you’re there, it’s also worth visiting the St. Peter and St. Paul Church and the Henry Blogg Museum.
Cromer is also on the Norfolk Coast Path, so it’s a lovely spot for walkers. You can walk along the scenic coast for about 5 miles to the town of Sheringham. From there you could catch the North Norfolk Railway’s historic steam train to the market town of Holt or take the Greater Anglia train back to Cromer. There are also several other circular routes in the area.
The North Norfolk Coast is also known for its seals. The best place to see them is at nearby Blakeney Point, but the only way to access the area is by boat. There are boat tours available from Morston Quay.
There are also several historic stately homes in Norfolk that you can visit. The most famous is probably Blickling Hall, the birthplace of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s second wife. Houghton Hall, Felbrigg Hall, and Holkham Hall are other popular options. Be sure to allow time to explore the grounds as well as the Halls.
Contributed by Anisa from Norfolk Local Guide
North Wales
There are so many amazing things to do in North Wales that making it a home base on a short break within the UK is perfect.
North Wales is a gorgeous place. It is a place of gorgeous scenery, quaint towns, epic history, rugged coastlines and one of the most unique glamping experiences.
Staying at the Llechwedd Mountain Slate Mines will give you an experience like no other. The luxury glamping tents are located on the edge of an old slate mine. While the mine is no longer in use it has found a new purpose in educating visitors on the importance and hardship of the mining industry. Here you can tour the underground mines, visit the mountain mines in a truck, you can zip line across the mine, you can mountain bike or hike some of the most beautiful trails or you can sit on the deck of your tent with a platter of local foods and watch the everchanging landscape that surrounds the mine.
If you would like to venture out there are so many places for you to visit. You can ride the Snowdon Mountain Railway or you can hike to the top. The seaside town of Llandudno is beautiful to wander or have some lunch on the wharf there.
The Welsh Mountain Zoo is a great activity if you are travelling in North Wales with kids. For something truly unique you can also visit the Ty Coch Inn. It was voted one of the best beach bars in the world and it is a great place for a beer after you wander through the golf course!
You can also spend an afternoon castle spotting as you drive through the countryside as you return to your glamping tent for a comfy night’s sleep.
Contributed by Bec from Wyld Family Travels
Nottingham
Nottingham is one of the best short breaks in the UK from London. There are lots of cool things to do in Nottingham so prepare for a jam-packed weekend.
Nottingham is easy to reach from London by car or train, it is 128 miles away and takes a little over 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive. By train the journey takes 1 hours 45 minutes and there are many trains departing daily from St Pancras station.
The main things to see in Nottingham on a weekend break to the city include the amazing Wollaton Hall and Deer Park located just a few minutes from the city centre. This Grade I listed Elizabethan mansion is home to the Nottingham Natural History Museum and Nottingham Industrial Museum and in the extensive grounds there are free roaming red and fallow deer.
Another awesome thing to do is take a tour of the hand carved caves that run under Nottingham city. The caves can be seen everywhere from Nottingham Castle to the supposedly haunted National Justice Museum and in some of the oldest pubs in England, 3 of which are in Nottingham.
Contributed by Steph and Lewis from Book it Let’s Go!
Oxford
Oxford is located in central southern England and is the location of the University of Oxford and its prestigious colleges along with the city’s historic and medieval centre. If you love visiting historic English cities, then Oxford is a great place to explore and tour on a short break in the UK.
Oxford is known as the “City of Spires” because of all the beautiful gothic towers and church steeples around the city to explore. Most of the city’s historic buildings range in age from the 15th to 17th centuries and are outstanding architectural wonders with gorgeous details to admire and enjoy while you walk around the historic city centre and surrounding areas.
Top sites to visit in Oxford include: the University of Oxford with its 38 colleges, the world’s oldest public museum at the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford Botanical Garden, Blenheim Palace, Oxford Castle and prison, the Oxford Canal and other waterways, Cogges Manor Farm and so many more historic streets and landmarks around the city to mention.
The most recognized building in the city is the Radcliffe Camera Building at Oxford University. This is the science library and takes centre stage at the university grounds.
Other beautiful buildings of note include the Bridge of Sighs, the University Church of St. Mary, Tom Tower and the Divinity school. There are so many outstanding examples of magnificent and historic buildings to visit and capture in photographs here that you’ll love exploring.
Oxford makes a great short break in the UK and a nice getaway from London. Explore the medieval city centre and its colleges as well as other historic attractions to fill up your check list of places to visit in the city.
Contributed by Noel from Visit California and Beyond
Peak District
Nestled between the big cities of Manchester, Sheffield and Derby, The Peak District National Park is the oldest National Park in the UK. It’s only a three hour drive from London if you’re visiting the White Peak (southern half of the Peak District), or four hours for the Dark Peak (northern half).
The Peak District is the place to come to reconnect with nature and clear the mind through it’s open spaces. Standing on the craggy edge of one of the Peak District’s escarpments, overlooking the expansive landscape of green rolling hills and quaint villages below, you will feel a million miles away from life in the Capital.
Grab your Ordnance Survey map and hiking boots and head for a hike along Stanage Edge or Curbar Edge, or if you’re after a more sedate stroll enjoy the Ladybower Reservoir walk. Alternatively, bring your bike and cycle along the miles upon miles of disused railway tracks that criss-cross the National Park. These have been transformed into gravel paths that are entirely traffic free.
Reward your efforts with a pint of Peak Ale in a local pub and a homecooked roast in a characterful local pub to close out your visit to the Peak District – one of the best short breaks in the UK.
Contributed by Jenny from Peak District Kids
Ramsgate
A fun weekend getaway, Ramsgate is a charming seaside town and resort on the Kent coast boasting beautiful sandy beaches (complete with beach-huts and ice cream kiosks). Ramsgate is one of the easiest short breaks in the UK to get to as it can be easily reached from London in around an hour if you jump on the super fast train.
One of the best free things to do in Ramsgate is to stroll around the harbour and marina at any time of day, looking at all the yachts and vessels (and possibly guess how many millions some of them cost!). The harbour is also the location for most of the day trips and sea fishing excursions available in Ramsgate. There are a lot of nice places to eat, plus museums and artist studios in the arches along the marina.
Finally, Ramsgate Royal Parade (fancy name!) is one of the best cliff top walks and spots to hang out with nice views and several bars and restaurants all with their own alfresco dining areas with views overlooking the port.
Tip: If you are looking for a budget stay in a great location then the Travelodge is located next to the marina with many rooms overlooking it.
Contributed by Caroline from CK Travels
Salisbury
Salisbury is the best of English cities and makes for a perfect weekend trip from London. Getting here takes a 2 hour train ride from London Waterloo or Clapham Junction stations (South Western Railways) and is very easy.
It is a quintessentially English city with lots to see and do. It is fairly small and it is quite easy to explore it on foot. The station is close to the city centre which has some interesting buildings including a haunted pub.
Another thing Salisbury is famous for is the number of haunted buildings in the city. There are so many ghost stories about buildings all around city centre, pretty much every other building including department stores. It does feel a bit weird in the beginning when you walk around.
You can do a Salisbury Walking Tour to explore the history of the city and the buildings. Without spoiling their beauty, there are quite a few houses and buildings from Tudor period in the city centre and you can easily stay in one of them through rental websites like Airbnb.
The Salisbury cathedral is the crowning jewel of this city and an absolutely must visit place. It is grand in every sense of the word. You can take a tour to go to the top which has the really beautiful view of the entire area. Don’t forget to check out the original Magna Carta here as well.
The world famous Stonehenge and its museum are only a shuttle ride away from Salisbury and make a perfect half day trip. Salisbury makes a great weekend getaway from London for everyone without exceptions.
Contributed by Uchman from Brown Boy Travels
Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon is a stunning medieval market town located in the county of Warwickshire, along River Avon.
One of the best things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon is indulge in everything that is Shakespeare as the town was the birth place of the legend poet and playwright William Shakespeare and has attracted visitors for over 250 years.
There are five houses which are associated with Shakespeare and are managed by the Shakespeare Birth Trust – Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathway Cottage & Gardens, Nash’s House and New Place, Mary Arden’s Farm and Hall’s Croft.
If you don’t have time to visit all the houses, do make sure to visit Shakespeare’s birthplace and Anne Hathway Cottage. However, if you want to visit all five houses, it is best to choose a hop on hop off bus tour, since the houses are scattered in different corners.
You can also watch one of Shakespeare’s plays being performed in town or choose to explore the vibrant streets or hire a boat and row in the calm waters of River Avon.
Due to its proximity, Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular weekend getaway from London and one of the best short breaks in the UK. Stratford upon Avon is only 2 hours’ drive from London. There are also frequent trains from London’s Marylebone station, which takes a little over 2 hours.
Contributed by Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple
Whitstable
If you’re in need of break from the capital then Whitstable is a very easy weekend trip from London. This characterful seaside town is just 60 miles from London and is easily one of the best places to visit in Kent. Come here for the sea air, the quirky independent shops and the oodles of freshly caught seafood.
Begin your visit exploring Whitstable Harbour. Built in 1832 to serve the Canterbury and Whitstable Railway, the working harbour is a lively place to wander. It’s home to the Harbour Market, where local craftspeople sell paintings, drawings, jewellery, ceramics, textiles and more. The harbour is also a great place to pick up fish and chips.
Of course the beach is one of the main reasons that you come to Whitstable and there are several to choose from. That said, don’t expecting Caribbean-style sugar white sand, these are shingle beaches. Whitstable West Beach is good for a walk along the seafront and Tankerton Beach is perfect for rock pooling. Tankerton is also a popular with windsurfers.
Away from the beach there’s Whitstable Castle and Gardens, which are worth a visit. The Whitstable Museum and Gallery is home to the INVICTA engine, the first steam train to be used on the railway, transporting passengers from the seaside to nearby Canterbury.
The other reason you should spend a weekend in Whitstable is for the food. There are dozens of places serving fresh seafood but if it’s oysters you’re after then make a beeline for the Whitstable Oyster Company. The Hotel Continental is a classic British seaside hotel and is a good option for an overnight stay.
Contributed by Katja from Globetotting
Winchester
Winchester is an hour and a half from London by train making it a quick and easy day trip or perfect for an overnight short break in the UK. The town is full of beautiful architecture and cobblestone streets. It is known for the famous Winchester Cathedral and right behind it, you will find Winchester College.
You can sit in the park in front of the Cathedral and relax before taking a beautiful walk towards Wolvesey Castle. This hidden gem is a spectacular site that was once a bishop’s palace but is now ruined.
In the evening, you can dine at one of the best restaurants in town including the Chesil Rectory or the Black Rat. The Old Vine is a great bed and breakfast if you decide to stay overnight. It’s only a short walk from the Cathedral and has a pub with delicious Sunday Roast. If you feel like shopping after you can peruse the many independent shops on the main street (High Street) and there is also a weekly market on the weekends.
Contributed by Jackie from Jou Jou Travels
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