There’s a little something for everyone in London, but sometimes it’s nice to get out of the city and find a change of scenery. Luckily with London’s extensive rail system and large motorways, it’s easy to get away for a fast trip. Here are four great options when you are looking for a road trip from London.
Brighton
Less than two hours drive from London, Brighton is a bustling seaside town with tons to do. Visitors won’t want to miss the iconic Brighton Pier, a classic Victorian pleasure pier. Have a fish and chips and then head to the British Airways i360, a new ride that soars 162 meters in the sky and offers 360 degree views over the city, coast, and countryside. Afterward, head over to the Royal Pavilion to experience the country’s most exotic palace.
If the weather is nice, walk across Brighton Beach and it’s famous pebbles. For more sea adventure, head over to the Sea Life Centre, Britain’s oldest aquarium. Finally, don’t miss the eclectic shopping of The Lanes and North Laine before heading back to London.
Bath
Hop on the motorway just over two hours to the Somerset retreat of Bath. The city was settled in the year 60 AD by Romans who built baths and temples over the city’s natural hot springs. You can still visit the Roman Baths to learn about the city’s ancient history. Nearby, take your own dip in the natural hot springs at the Thermae Bath Spa which is open to the public.
After you’ve finished relaxing, explore the city’s 7th-century abbey and take a climb to the top of the tower for expansive views of the city and countryside. Stroll the streets to see the iconic architecture, including the Royal Crescent, and you’ll quickly understand why Bath is the UK’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Before you head back to London, take a relaxing walk around the Bath Skyline Walk to see the city from another view and enjoy the country air.
Oxford
Oxford lies an easy hour and a half drive from London, making it perfect for a quick getaway. Perhaps best known for its university, there is no shortage of things to do in the ancient college town. Visit the many colleges that comprise Oxford University and you’ll recognize some film locations from your favorite movies, such as Harry Potter. Walk the same lanes and paths as notable literature greats and have a pint at The Eagle and Child where CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien used to meet.
When you’ve tired of walking, hop on a steamer or hire a punt for a relaxing ride down Oxford’s waterways. Oxford is also home to many museums you’ll want to explore, including the country’s oldest, the Ashmolean. There you can see ancient mummies and the robes of Laurence of Arabia or hop over to the Bodleian Library to see an original Magna Carta. Finish off your visit to Oxford with a trip to Oxford Castle, the city’s oldest building complete with 900-year-old underground crypts.
Windsor
Just a fast hop outside of London lies Windsor, less than an hour’s drive away. Best known as the Queen’s weekend getaway and site of the recent royal wedding of Prince Harry and Megan Markle, Windsor offers plenty of things to do. Visitors will, of course, want to explore Windsor Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in the world. You can also visit nearby Eton College where Prince William and Prince Harry attended school. Families escaping to Windsor won’t want to miss Legoland, complete with rides, shows, and plenty of LEGO displays of your favorite architectural buildings from around the world.
There is plenty to explore a road trip from London, but when you’re ready to head back to the city, you might enjoy A Night Out in London With Your Love.
