From Brighton to Canterbury and Oxford, these dynamic destinations are great options for weekend breaks in England.
When you don’t have time for a long vacation, there is still plenty of ground to cover on a weekend break. While London is nice, sometimes it is good to venture out of the capital city. If you need a few ideas, these dynamic destinations make for great getaways in the UK.
Brighton. Only one hour from London by train, this resort area by the sea is a popular choice for day-trippers. Sun, surf, and sand are the main attractions, but other experiences await, including seeing legendary landmarks, such as The Royal Pavilion, once the former retreat of none other than King George IV. The distinctive 19th-century architecture catches the eye as do the striking interiors of the Banqueting Room, Great Kitchen, and other spaces that visitors can tour. When in the mood for amusement, Palace Pier is the place to go with thrilling rides, concession stands, and family fun. Another area to explore is The Lanes, the oldest part of the city, and a prime spot for shopping and unwinding with a delicious bite in one of the pubs or restaurants.
Canterbury. The early beginnings of this quaint town inspired many writers over the years, most notably, Geoffrey Chaucer. Ecclesiastical roots brought many pilgrims here over the years. Today, the destination still attracts curious travelers who marvel at such sites as the Canterbury Cathedral, which dates to Medieval Times. Meanwhile, culture lovers often spend a few hours at the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge to see its exquisite collection of antiquities, artifacts, and paintings. Those who prefer a tranquil stroll retreat to Westgate Gardens, along the banks of the Stour.
Oxford. Famous for its prestigious university bearing the same name, there is more to life than academics in this charmer of a city. History abounds, and Oxford Castle ; Prison has been around for over 1,000 years. Today, tours reveal the historic site’s fascinating past, and visitors can take in stunning views from atop Saxon St. George’s Tower. Architecture buffs will want to head over to Ashmolean, a museum of art and archeology at the University of Oxford that was founded in 1683 and features extraordinary collections from Egyptian mummies to paintings by masters such as De Goya and Pissarro. Over at the impressive Pitts River Museum, there are over half-a-million objects on display to discover.
If the occasion for planning a weekend getaway arises, now you know which cities to keep on the radar as great getaways in the UK.