London is known as one of the best cities in the world, with a constant hustle and bustle of workers, families, couples and tourists. Yet sometimes, it is inevitable that everyone needs an escape from the busy lifestyle lived in the capital. Luckily, the UK is full of stunning countryside havens around every corner, with quiet pockets of green and lovely places to stay all around.
A rural retreat has so many benefits for you and your family or partner, and the countryside provides a great escape for just that. The benefits of a small weekend away are invaluable for maintaining well-being and a relaxed head space. Even better, many of the best country breaks are based just outside of London, so the hassle of travelling long journeys is no bother, and the choice of where to go is yours. A weekend break makes it easier to switch off and relax, but it may be difficult when choosing where to go.
To make a stress-free weekend even more relaxing, we have created a list of the best country weekend breaks near London, to guide you to blissful paradise with your family, friends or partner.
The Cotswolds
A natural paradise which echoes pure beauty and perfectionism, the picturesque corner of England is a 2-hour drive from London. The Cotswolds is a hotspot for weekend retreats for many, including the likes of superstars and A-list celebrities. It is the epitome of English countryside and encompasses relaxation, peace and glory in one place. With many delightful cottages and houses to stay in, the Cotswolds offers plenty to do. Visit some of the National Trust properties for a seasonal walk with the family, explore the winding canals set in idyllic settings or simply enjoy the characterful countryside however you wish. There are also many activities if you fancy more of an adventure, with the likes of the Sudeley Castle which has endless amounts of fun for the kids, whilst you soak up over 1,000 years of incredible history. Or maybe to destress a shopping spree is on the cards, perfect in places like Cirencester which is a vibrant market town selling unique goods along charming mediaeval streets. The Cotswolds is a wonderful place for one of your weekends away.
West Sussex
West Sussex is a beautiful county in Southern England and a very easy trip from the city, making it an ideal place to escape and venture out to a new place. For either a relaxation or an activity-filled getaway, there are plenty of options for entertainment on your weekend. South Downs National Park is a must visit whilst you are here. It is also a spiritual haven, where many have come to worship over many centuries. The vineyards here offer tours and numerous tasting sessions for you and your partner or family to try. Stay in a spectacular country house hotel or bed and breakfast to mould your weekend into an escape like no other.
Devon
Devon is a thrilling county in southwest England that encompasses huge fossil cliffs, sandy beaches and mediaeval towns. The coastal path follows all the way round taking in the northern exmoor coast with its fossilised coastline. There is really no countryside as lush as Devon’s. Dartmoor National Park is a beautiful wooded valley with wild, open moorlands and deep river valleys with rare wildlife and an immense amount of history. It is truly a unique place. On the edge of the woodland you will find StarBed Hideaways. Visit some of North Devon’s multitude of hidden beaches and coves dotted along the incredible shoreline, specifically in Woolacombe and Croyde. With a plethora of attractions for the children, you may want the weekend to last a fortnight.
Hampshire
A county brimming with idyllic villages, peaceful woodland areas and much more, Hampshire is one of the top weekend breaks on the list. This is the home of Downton Abbey at Highclere castle, and birthplace of the greatJane Austen. With a diverse coastline with dramatic views and great walks, as well as vibrant cities and towns to visit, there is a lot to do whilst you stay here. Stay in a traditional thatched cottage and take a peaceful walk to one of Hampshire’s cosy pubs for some food and a pint of the region’s famous ales. It is also an ideal location as many of the attractions in Hampshire are open all year round. As a family you can explore the Marwell Zoo,take a stroll around one of the many museums in or visit Portsmouth’s famous Spinnaker Tower.
Rye
Around an hour's train ride away from London, Rye is located in East Sussex. It is a pretty and well-preserved mediaeval town of cobbled streets and half-timbered houses all perched on top of a hill. Rye Castle remains an essential sight to see, and is now also home to a museum where one can understand more about the town’s fantastic history of smuggling, invasion and intrigue. Be sure to make a stop on Mermaid Street too. As one of the most photographed streets in the whole country, it’s a perfect example of how 15th century architecture can survive and be celebrated in modern times.
Having some of the most beautiful, peaceful and relaxing areas just around the corner from the capital is a great benefit of living in London. When you need to take the occasional break from the routines of city life, the five places listed would make the perfect location for a rural retreat ro rejuvenate and revitalise your minds. Whilst doing so, you can explore the incredible counties and what they have to offer. From picturesque paradises to unique shopping sprees, to sandy coastlines that you will be in awe of, a weekend away is definitely on the agenda for 2024.
