Weekend getaways from London: Stuck in your studies? Then this blog is for your escape. We’ve got five amazing weekend getaways, all reachable from London by train or car. Whether you’re craving Roman baths or calm nature, there’s a perfect place waiting for you in London. Each spot has many amazing things to see and do, so you can have fun to the fullest. Pack your bags and get ready to discover the weekend gateways from London.
Table of contents
Bath
Bath is one of the best weekend getaways from London if you want some fun and amazing things to explore. This beautiful city is 1.5 hours by train from London and offers amazing things to see and do. The city is also famous for its Roman Baths, where you can even take a dip in the natural hot springs. Bath also has gorgeous Georgian architecture, with honey-coloured buildings lining its streets.
You can find many restaurants, cafes, and markets in Bath to have a yummy treat after exploring and doing some shopping in Bath. Check out some of the key attractions in Bath.
| Attraction | Google Rating |
| Roman Baths | 4.6 |
| Bath Abbey | 4.6 |
| Pulteney Bridge | 4.6 |
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is a beautiful village and is a little further than Bath, about 2 hours by train, but definitely worth the trip if you’re looking for a relaxing and calm getaway from London. Here you can find amazing little towns to explore.
One of the best things to see in the Cotswolds is Bourton-on-the-Water, also known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds.” Here, the River Windrush winds through the town centre, with small, beautiful bridges adding to the movie feel. Some of the key attractions are
| Attraction | Google Rating |
| Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens | 4.7 |
| Blenheim Palace | 4.7 |
| Gloucester Cathedral | 4.8 |
Also Read: Not sure which are the safest places to live in the UK? No issues, our blog will help you greatly – Safest Cities to Live in the UK for International Students!
The Peak District
The Peak District has tons to offer. It’s about a 2.5-hour train ride from London or a 3-hour car trip. The district is full of charming market towns like Bakewell, which is famous for its delicious Bakewell tarts. Here you can also find stately homes like Chatsworth House, where the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire live.
If the weather is nice, you can explore the Peak District National Park on foot or by bike (you can even rent bikes at Blackwell Mill Cycle Hire). After all that, you might love exploring the nearby cosy pubs like the Devonshire Arms at Beeley for amazing food. Check out some of the amazing places below.
| Attraction | Google Rating |
| Chatsworth House | 4.7 |
| Peak Cavern | 4.5 |
| Treak Cliff Cavern | 4.6 |
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is full of life all year round. You will find many things to do and see in Edinburgh. It’s a quick 1.2-hour flight from London, or a 4.5-hour train journey, or an 8-hour drive. One of the must-do things to do in Edinburgh is to climb Arthur’s Seat, a giant hill with epic views of the city. Then, explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Afterwards, you can have a picnic and relax in the Meadows.
There are many restaurants and cafes in Edinburgh. Therefore, you should definitely visit one of Edinburgh’s cafes or restaurants if you’re hungry or just want to enjoy the ambience.
| Attraction | Google Rating |
| Edinburgh Castle | 4.6 |
| National Museum of Scotland | 4.8 |
| Palace of Holyroodhouse | 4.6 |
Also Read: Wondering about the student accommodation cost? Check out our blog – Average Cost of Student Accommodation!
Oxford
As one of the weekend getaways from London, Oxford is much more than just those famous university buildings. This historic city is full of places to eat, drink, and explore, and it’s an easy 1-hour train ride from London or a 1.5-hour car trip.
You will love to explore Oxford’s history at museums like the Ashmolean and the Pitt Rivers Museum. Then, take a break in the beautiful University Parks or Port Meadow for relaxation and refreshment. You can also check out The Varsity Club, a rooftop bar with a trendy atmosphere. Oxford has markets as well, so you can shop. You can also try some outdoor adventures in Oxford, like hiking, biking, kayaking, and more, with your friends for fun.
| Attraction | Google Rating |
| Ashmolean Museum | 4.7 |
| Oxford University Museum of Natural History | 4.8 |
| Oxford Botanic Garden | 4.5 |
Transport Tips for Weekend Travellers
Getting around for your weekend getaways from London doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning, you can save big on travel and make your trips smooth and budget-friendly. Here are some student-savvy transport tips to keep in mind:
1. Use Railcards to Slash Train Fares: If you’re between 16–25 or 26–30, grab a Railcard—you’ll get 1/3 off most train tickets across the UK. It pays for itself in just a couple of trips!
2. Book Cheap Buses (Megabus & National Express): Buses are your best friend if you’re on a tight budget. Megabus and National Express offer fares as low as GBP 5–GBP 10 for many routes. Travel might take longer than trains, but it’s super budget-friendly.
3. Book in Advance for the Best Prices: Whether you’re going by train or bus, early bookings = better deals. Try to book at least 1–2 weeks ahead, especially for popular spots like Brighton or Bath.
4. Use the Best Booking Apps: Apps like Trainline and Omio make it easy to compare prices, book on the go, and check live schedules. They also show platform numbers and offer mobile tickets—super convenient!
5. Know Your City Transport: Once you arrive, most UK towns have reliable local buses. In bigger cities like Oxford or Brighton, consider buying a day pass for unlimited travel. And don’t forget—Google Maps works great for public transit planning.
Budget Tips for Student Travellers
Planning weekend getaways from London on a student budget? No worries—there are plenty of ways to save while still having an amazing time. Here are some smart, student-approved tricks to make your trip both fun and affordable:
1. Pack Your Own Snacks: Train station food can be expensive. Pack homemade sandwiches, snacks, or a quick meal for the journey. Not only does it save money, but it also gives you more options if you’re vegan, vegetarian, or on a special diet.
2. Use Youth Discounts: If you’re under 30, invest in a 16-25 Railcard or 26-30 Railcard. They save you 1/3 off train fares and pay for themselves in just one or two trips. Also, look for youth discounts on buses and tourist attractions.
3. Free Walking Tours in Many Cities: Many cities like Oxford, Bath, and Cambridge offer free walking tours—you just tip what you can at the end. It’s a great way to explore with a local guide, hear fascinating stories, and make new travel buddies.
4. Book Student-Friendly Hostels: Look for hostels that offer student discounts or group booking rates. Websites like Fly Homes, Hostelworld, Booking.com, or Uniplaces often highlight affordable, clean, and safe places for students.
5. Carry a Student ID for Museum Discounts: Your student card is a money-saving gem. Most museums, historic sites, and even restaurants offer discounted entry for students. Always ask if there’s a concession rate, you’d be surprised how much you can save!
Weekend getaways from London are a fantastic way to explore new destinations without breaking the bank. Whether you’re into history, nature, or culture, there’s something for everyone just a short trip away. With the right planning, you can make your weekends both affordable and unforgettable.
FAQs on the Weekend getaways from London
Some popular weekend getaways from London include Bath, the Cotswolds, the Peak District, Edinburgh, and Oxford.
For a long weekend near London, you can consider destinations like Bath, the Cotswolds, the Peak District, Edinburgh, or Oxford, all of which offer diverse experiences within a few hours’ travel from London.
Several destinations, including Bath, Oxford, and the Cotswolds, are approximately 2 hours away from London by train. These places are full of exciting things to do.
There are numerous options for day trips near London. Some popular choices include Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, Cambridge, Brighton, and Stratford-upon-Avon.
Yes, it is possible to do a day trip to Paris from London, especially with the Eurostar train. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes each way, making exploring Paris in a day feasible.
Student hostels, Airbnb, and budget hotels like Premier Inn or Travelodge offer affordable stays.
Yes, places like the Cotswolds and the Lake District are easily accessible via train or bus, offering a quick countryside escape.
Day trips to locations like Windsor, Brighton, and Hampton Court Palace are popular choices and just a short train ride away.
Opt for train travel or buses, and avoid flying for short-distance trips. Always choose eco-friendly accommodation options and carry reusable bottles and bags.
It’s possible to visit multiple places in a weekend, especially in cities like Oxford or Cambridge, which are close to London.
Hope you liked reading our blog on the weekend getaways from London. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal accommodation abroad with ease.
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