Guide to weekend trips from London

Painshill is a fab day trip from London or a good place to visit if you're staying in nearby Cobham. Created between 1738 and 1773, this is a glorious landscaped garden full of intriguing follies like a crystal grotto and gothic tower. It has its own vineyard and makes sparkling wine too.

Known for its world-famous university, Oxford is a bustling city with distinctive medieval architecture and an idyllic look. The city centre has plenty to explore if you’re staying for a couple of days, from restaurants, pubs, and nightlife to museums and art galleries, independent art centres, the historic covered market, and theatres.

With its art galleries, historic music scene, and beautiful industrial architecture, Manchester makes for a great weekend getaway – a London away from London, if you will. Spend a few days wandering around trendy areas like the Northern Quarter, enjoying the fruits of an exciting culinary scene, taking advantage of the lower prices, and more - why not check out Thatsup Manchester to get some inspiration?

Margate may be a small town but art lovers won’t want to miss it. This coastal destination has a glorious beach and Turner Contemporary, a leading contemporary art gallery, is just next to it. The town is home to numerous artists’ studios and creative initiatives, a shell grotto, and the vintage-style Dreamland amusement park.

Visit Canterbury and see the grand architecture of Canterbury Cathedral. One of the oldest cathedrals in the country, it was established in 597 AD. There are religious services every day but you can also visit just to tour the striking building and discover its history. There are events and exhibitions too.

If you love thrills and spills head to Alton Towers. Set across 500 acres in Staffordshire, there are over 40 rollercoasters and rides to try, plus shows, a waterpark, fun for the youngest children, and a spa. You can buy day tickets or stay at one of the resort's hotels.

When London gets a bit much, head to Champneys Henlow in Bedfordshire for a rejuvenating spa break. This hotel has luxurious facilities, relaxing rooms and suites, and lots of refreshing activities and treatments on offer. There are pools, a gym, a steam room and sauna, plus a big choice of classes and services.

Head to Essex for a weekend in a proper British seaside resort – Southend-on-Sea. Visit the famous Southend Pier, which is so long it has its own train service, plus a museum at the end. The Adventure Island theme park is nearby, plus in Southend itself there’s a beach and gorgeous coastal views.

In Kent you'll fine Knole, a National Trust property with more than 600 years of history behind it. It's one of England's largest stately homes and is set in 1,000 acres of parkland. Take in the architecture, view historic textiles, furniture, and art, and see deer and other wildlife in the grounds.

If you love history visit the Verulamium Museum in St Albans, ideal for a day trip or weekend break from London. Built on the site of one of Britain's largest Roman cities, you can see archaelogical discoveries and learn about ancient life. There's something for all ages, including hands-on activities for kids.

Famed for its world-class university and dreaming spires, Cambridge is a popular destination for a short break. Punting down the River Cam is a famous activity here but there's more to discover, like museums, art galleries, and walking tours. There are great dining destinations too, from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants.

A trip to Legoland Windsor is a fun family break. This theme park is popular with kids and there are hotels and other accommodation on-site. The varied attractions include exciting rides, Lego building areas, live shows, and shopping and dining. The UK's biggest Lego store is here too so you can stock up on new toys.

The Surrey Hills has been a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty since 1958. Covering 422km, it's popular with hikers and there are numerous trails you can follow, with some stretching for more than 150 miles. You'll see stunning vistas, ancient woodland, and charming market towns. There are campsites dotted around too.

If you're having a short break in St Albans, Hertfordshire Zoo is a top attraction to check out. Based in Broxbourne, you can encounter animals from lions and crocodiles to owls and lemurs. There are also 30 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs to meet. The attraction has crazy golf, play areas, and a summertime splash pool too.

Visit Hertfordshire and discover the ruins of an ancient castle at Berkhamsted Castle. It's easily accessible as it's only a short distance from the centre of Berkhamsted. The castle was built in the 11th century. Immerse yourself in history amongst the ruins and the moat, which still contains water most of the year.

Head to the South West and you get to Bristol, a thriving city with a buzzing art and music scene in addition to lots of options for food and nightlife. This lively place is the home of mysterious artist Banksy. See sights like the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the harbour area or explore nature trails on the city's outskirts.

Visit Bournemouth in Dorset for a weekend exploring seven miles of golden sandy beaches. Frolic in the sea, catch some sun, or join one of the pop-up festivals and events that take place. You’ll see rows of cute beach huts and seaside amusements. The city centre has a varied selection of shops, bars, and restaurants.

Enjoy a shopping break at Bicester Village in Oxfordshire. This stylish shopping complex has boutiques from over 160 top designer brands, offering high-end products at discounted prices. Shop for fashion, cosmetics, accessories, and homewares. There are bars and eateries on-site too when you need a break from carrying shopping bags.

We all know the Natural History Museum in Kensington but you can visit its lesser-known sibling if you go to Tring in Hertfordshire. This place houses almost 5,000 animal specimens including polar bears and penguins. The museum is particularly famous for its fleas in costumes, acquired in Mexico in 1905.

Heading to Brighton is a classic day out for many Londoners. Easily accessible by train, it’s famed for its stoney beach, Palace Pier, the Pavilion, and the ruined West Pier. You’ll see Victorian architecture and will discover a thriving restaurant and bar scene. The city is also known as the gay capital of the UK.

Visit another capital city without your passport by taking a trip to Cardiff in Wales. This is the 11th largest city in the UK, with loads to explore including Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Bay, and the Senedd, the Welsh Parliament. You can take boat trips in the area and explore museums, attractions, shops, and eateries.

Bluebell Railway offers guests a unique travel experience. This heritage steam railway dates back to the 1880s. There's a museum with a model railway, you can get up close to steam engines, and take a ride on a steam train. There are eateries as well as dining trips on the train.

Built in the 1760s, Scott's Grotto in Hertfordshire is the country's most expansive shell grotto. This interesting structure is covered in fossils and shells. Set into the hillside, the deepest chamber is 10 metres below the hilltop. Explore the tunnels and chambers, discover the structure's history, and take part in seasonal events.

In Eastbourne you'll find Towner Eastbourne, a vibrant and colourful building housing an exciting collection of modern and contemporary art. The space has been exhibiting work for almost 100 years and there are over 5,000 pieces in the collection, plus a cinema. You can go behind the scenes with special tours too.

Visit a unique beach by going to Camber Sands, the only sand dune system in East Sussex. Take in the stunning coastal views, which get particularly interesting at low tide when you can see the remains of a shipwreck. The beach is also popular for sports like kite surfing.

Often associated with the British royal family, Windsor is a quintessential English town. Visit Windsor Castle, which is still occupied by the royal family, and watch the Changing of the Guard. When you’re here you’ll see the River Thames in a different light and can enjoy boat trips, farmers’ markets, and a historic shopping arcade.

Longleat has the distinction of being the world's first drive-through safari park outside Africa. Cruise along and see animals roaming freely like tigers, rhinos, wolves, and Anne, a rescued circus elephant. You can explore the stately house and the grounds too. Make it a weekend by booking a stay in a cottage on-site.

If you love cars and motor racing then Silverstone is for you. The home of the British Grand Prix, you can watch a race or event, have a go at driving a supercar, and visit the museum. There are glamping and camping sites, making it a great place for a weekend trip.

Bath is a city in Somerset named after its famous Roman baths. Since ancient times it has been a wellbeing destination. The city is known for its Georgian architecture, including the Royal Crescent, a row of houses in a dramatic curve. Visit museums, galleries, and ancient baths, and take a day trip to Stonehenge.

The coastal town of Deal in Kent is under two hours from London by train and has gained a reputation as a picturesque foodie paradise. Explore the town's sandy beach and check out the variety of upscale restaurants, bars, and delis in the area. You can also explore other parts of Kent during your weekend here.

Warwick Castle makes an exciting base for a weekend away from London. Built in 1608, it's now a thriving attraction that you can visit for the day or stay at overnight for a unique hotel experience. It's set amongst 64 acres of grounds but is located within easy reach of the rest of Warwick for more exploring.

Escape to the idyllic English countryside with a weekend trip to the Cotswolds. This romantic part of the country is full of rolling hills, meadows, and picturesque villages. It's an ideal destination if you love country walks in the fresh air and are longing for a peaceful escape from the busy pace of life in the capital.

The Scottish capital of Edinburgh is a lively and buzzing city that's fun to visit for a weekend. You'll find great nightlife and friendly locals here, as well as interesting sights and attractions like Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, the famous Royal Mile, and the imposing Scott Monument. The city is also home to plenty of options for shopping and dining.