The thought of leaving London for a weekend might feel daunting, but escaping the city doesn’t have to mean long, stressful journeys. From quaint seaside towns and rolling countryside to vibrant European cities, London is perfectly positioned for a quick, restorative getaway. Whether you’re looking for a staycation near London with friends or planning a romantic trip, we’ve compiled a guide to the best weekend trips from London, both near and far, that prove two days can feel like a lifetime.
Weekend Trips from London
You don’t have to venture far for a weekend trip outside of London; England is teeming with vibrant cities and nature retreats to spend a few days in. If you’re looking for a last-minute weekend break, hop on a train and discover a different side of the country within a few hours.
The Lake District
Nestled in Cumbria lies the Lake District, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site and the UK’s largest national park. It’s the perfect retreat for nature lovers and hikers seeking a blend of spectacular scenery, exquisite hiking trails, verdant woodlands, and charming town life. The Lake District is home to Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, and Lake Windermere, on which you can take boat trips and enjoy water activities. Stay in one of the area’s picturesque towns, Bowness-on-Windermere, Ambleside, or Keswick, and enjoy a serene break away from bustling city life.
Journey from London: Five-hour drive from London to Bowness or a 2h30 – 4h train journey from London Euston to Oxenholme (depending on the time and service).
The North West
If you want to experience city life up north, the North West is home to Manchester and Liverpool, two vibrant, diverse, and lively cities. Manchester is the biggest of the two, known for its rich culture and world-renowned football teams. You’ll always find something to do, whether it’s catching a theatre show at the Royal Exchange, the Lowry, or the Palace Theatre; watching a football match at the Etihad or Old Trafford stadiums; going shopping in the Trafford Centre; bar- or café hopping around the Northern Quarter; or going for a stroll through one of the city’s many country parks.
An hour’s train ride away from Manchester is Liverpool, home of the Beatles and a hotspot for history and music. From world-class museums and art galleries to UNESCO sites, eclectic shopping districts and hidden speakeasies, Liverpool is an amazing short break destination from London. Read our Liverpool Travel Guide and explore the gems this city has to offer.
Journey from London: Approx. a four-hour drive from London to Liverpool and Manchester city centre, or a ~2h10 train ride from London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly and Liverpool Lime Street.
What Are the Most Romantic Weekend Trips Near London?
For couples wanting a romantic retreat without travelling too far, some of the UK’s hidden gems and stunning locations lie just outside of London. From coastal retreats to spa getaways and countryside escapes, you’ll find the romantic weekend break of your dreams.
Cornwall
Would you believe that England boasts its own coastal paradise? A three-hour train ride or 4.5-hour drive from London will take you to Cornwall, a breathtaking peninsula with a spectacular coastline, quaint towns and over 300 beaches and coves! It’s the perfect backdrop for romantic beach strolls and dinner dates with unbelievable views. If you want to indulge in a Cornish retreat, read our blog on Where to Stay in Cornwall.
The Cotswolds
Less than a two-hour drive and 50- minute train ride away from London lies the magical Cotswolds, classed as an Area of Outstanding Beauty. It’s the epitome of the English countryside, with its rolling hills, thatched cottages, stone villages, and picturesque pubs and local shops; everywhere feels like stepping inside a storybook. For the ultimate romantic retreat, stay in Bibury or Castle Combe – the prettiest villages in the area – or Bourton-on-the-Water, hailed as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’.
Although the UK offers a wealth of beautiful destinations for a couple’s weekend away, if you’d like to travel further afield, explore our Romantic City Breaks for Couples.
Weekend City Breaks in Europe
For a slightly longer journey that feels like a complete change of pace, London’s excellent transport links open up the entire continent for a short, sharp dose of European culture. The Eurostar connects directly to major cities, while London’s multiple airports offer quick flights to vibrant capitals, making a European city break surprisingly easy and often comparable in travel time to a long drive within the UK.
Paris
The ‘City of Love’ is arguably the ultimate weekend city break from London. The beauty of this trip is the simplicity of the journey; a two-hour train ride lands you directly in the heart of the French capital. Once there, you’re spoilt for choice. From visiting iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre to strolling along the Seine, indulging in world-class cuisine, and simply soaking up the Parisian atmosphere, Paris offers an endless array of romantic and cultural experiences. Find the perfect area to stay in with our guide to Paris’ top arrondissements.
Journey from London: Approx. a one-hour flight from any London airport to Paris CDG or Orly, or a 2h16 train ride via Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord.
Iceland
If you’re seeking a truly unique and dramatic weekend escape, look no further than Iceland. Here, you’ll spend your weekend soaking in the Blue Lagoon, chasing the Northern Lights (in season), or exploring the stunning Golden Circle route. The capital, Reykjavík, is a cosmopolitan hub with colourful buildings, fantastic restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife scene, making it a perfect base for your Icelandic adventure. For everything you need to know about planning your trip, read our Ultimate Guide to Iceland.
Journey from London: Approx. a three-hour flight from London Gatwick or Stansted to Keflavík International Airport (KEF).
Amsterdam
The capital of the Netherlands is an ideal short break destination, offering a mix of culture, history, and vibrant nightlife, all easily explored in a weekend. Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals, charming gabled houses, and world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. You can spend your time cycling along the waterways, visiting the historic Anne Frank House, or simply enjoying the relaxed, liberal atmosphere in one of the city’s many ‘brown cafes’.
Journey from London: Approx. a one-hour and 15-minute flight from most London airports to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) or a 3h55 train ride via Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Amsterdam Centraal.
Discover the Best Weekend Breaks from London with Secret Escapes
With Secret Escapes’ incredible deals on hotels and city break packages, you can enjoy a weekend away from London without worrying about breaking the bank. Whether you’re after a staycation near London or a European city break, browse our offers and save now!
For more travel advice and inspiration, deep dive further into the Escapist magazine or get in touch for more information.