London itself is a city with countless attractions. But occasionally, after spending a lot of time in one place, you will want a change of scenery. Then you might want to try weekend trips from London. Whether you are looking to escape the city for the rustic countryside, or a charming seaside town, or want to travel to a different country, there is a wide variety of destinations to choose from.

For a weekend getaway, time may be a little tight. Cities within the UK are certainly preferred, but weekend trips from London to Europe are more convenient than you might think, thanks to good rail and flight connections. So if you’re wondering where to go on your next short trip, let’s take a look at some of the best weekend trips from London, both within the UK and to other countries. Get ready to explore the next weekend break!

Where To Go From London For a Weekend

Trying to plan a weekend getaway? To save you the time of searching for destinations near London, we’ve compiled a list of several locations both within the UK and overseas. Even without a car, all of these places are easy to get to.

Weekend Getaway from London in UK	Weekend Trips from London to Abroad
Bath	Lille, France
Cotswolds	Dublin, Ireland
Eastbourne	Rotterdam, Netherlands
Bournemouth	Antwerp, Belgium
Edinburgh	Luxembourg

What Is Best Weekend Getaways From London: UK

Let’s start by exploring some of the incredible gems in British. These destinations combine history, natural beauty, and unique experiences within easy reach of London.

Check out the map for a quick overview:

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Bath

Bath is a city rich in history, located in the county of Somerset, England. It is also the only city in the UK to be listed as a World Heritage Site and was once a Roman spa sanctuary. If you’re looking for a relaxing and fulfilling weekend trip from London, Bath is the place to be.

Way of Transportation: Getting to Bath is very easy. The fastest and easiest way is to take a train from London Paddington station, which takes one hour and 20 minutes to reach Bath Spa station. If you prefer to drive, the shortest distance is 115 miles, which takes about two hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Things to do

• The Roman Baths: This is a well-preserved complex of Roman baths with a history of 2,000 years. The museum contains thousands of valuable artifacts from pre-Roman times. After your visit, you will also be able to pick up many local products such as honey, botanical gin, and handmade soaps.
• Bath Abbey: A Gothic abbey right next to the Roman baths, converted from a monastery to a church in 1617. The interior has large glass with scenic drawings of the story of Jesus and is well worth a visit. An Austens exhibition is being held at the Abbey from April 5 to September 27 this year to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth.
• Thermae Bath Spa: This is a great way to relax and unwind, offering a modern spa experience with rooftop views. It’s also the only natural hot springs spa in the UK, and it’s important to note that the minimum age of entry here is 16.

Best time to visit: Bath is lovely all year round, but aim for May, early June, September, and early October for pleasant weather and fewer tourists. And of course, the Christmas markets in December are a huge attraction.

Recommended accommodation areas: For easy access to all the major attractions, staying in the city center is ideal, such as near the University of Bath.

Cotswolds

Cotswolds is the ‘heart of England’, with its medieval countryside, the famous Cotswolds stone, and the Harry Potter filming location.

Way of Transportation: You can take the train to some of the larger towns such as Stroud or Kemble (about 1.5 hours from London Paddington). You will then need to take a bus to the area. However, exploring the Cotswolds by car is highly recommended. If driving, expect the journey to take approximately 2 hours depending on your specific destination within the Cotswolds.

Things to do

• Explore the villages: Visit iconic villages such as Burton on the Water, Bybury and its famous Arlington Street, Broadway and its towers, and Cornish Castle.
• Visit Harry Potter filming locations: The main filming locations for the series are in the village of Lacock and Gloucester Cathedral. Ideal for fans to visit.
• Spend time in a pub: many villages have historic and traditional English pubs, perfect for a cozy afternoon or evening.

Best time to visit: April through May is when the gardens are in full bloom and well worth a visit, while September through October brings beautiful maple leaves that make for beautiful photos.

Recommended accommodation areas: You can stay in the nearby Cheltenham or Cirencester area, which has more hotel options and is easier to get around.

Eastbourne

If you are looking for a nearby seaside resort, Eastbourne offers a relaxed atmosphere. It is famous for its beautiful pier and stunning white cliffs. Eastbourne is one of the closest cities to London for these destinations. If you’re looking for a quick breath of fresh sea air and a different kind of nature, then Eastbourne is the perfect choice for a 2 day trips from London.

Way of Transportation: Take a train from Victoria Station and travel directly to Eastbourne in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. If you want to travel by car, the shortest distance is 79 miles and takes 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Things to do

• Eastbourne Pier: Head to the pier for a walk along the coastline and ice cream. As night falls, the pier lights up to make the view even more beautiful.
• Beech Point and Seven Sisters Cliffs: These dramatic white chalk cliffs are simply breathtaking. When you reach the top of the cliffs, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the English Channel.
• Pevensey Castle: Built around 290 AD, Pevensey Castle has been in existence for more than ten centuries. Apart from the fortress, you can also visit the gardens, houses, and monasteries here.

Best time to visit: The weather is warmest in the summer months, July-August, which is perfect for beach vacations. Of course, May, June, and September are pleasant weather with fewer crowds.

Recommended accommodation areas: You can choose a hotel close to the coastline, with a great choice of hotels that also offer wonderful sea views every day and easy access to the promenade.

Bournemouth

Another fantastic coastal destination is Bournemouth, known for its 7 miles of golden sandy beaches and lively atmosphere. This represents more outdoor activities and relaxing moments.

Way of Transportation: Take a direct train from London Waterloo Station to Bournemouth in less than 2 hours. The driving distance is about 107 miles and the time will take around 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Things to do

• Bournemouth Beach: This beach has fine sand and clean water. You can swim in the sea or just lie back and relax and bathe in the sun. This is also a pet-friendly beach, so bring your furry friend on vacation with you.
• Bournemouth Pier: Similar to Eastbourne, this pier offers entertainment, stores, and a zip line from the pier to the beach for the adventurous!
• Old Harry Rocks: located on the famous Jurassic coastline, formed during the Cretaceous period. The paths here are mostly flat and suitable are friendly to people of all ages.

Best time to visit: The best time for a beach-focused trip is during the warmer months of July and August. Spring and fall are the off-season here, and there will be fewer tourists but the sea breeze will be stronger this time of year.

Recommended accommodation areas: With so many hotels in Bournemouth, staying near the city center or close to the beach is ideal.

Edinburgh

Although Edinburgh is a little further away than other destinations in the UK, it’s worth taking a truly enchanting weekend trip from London. Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is home to striking historic buildings, cultural institutions and trendy neighborhoods.

Way of Transportation: By train from London’s King’s Cross Station, the journey takes about 4.5-5 hours. Flights are one of the fastest ways and take about 1 hour and 20 minutes. If you want to take your time and enjoy the scenery on your own, the drive from London to Edinburgh is around 7 hours and 30 minutes.

Things to do

• Edinburgh Castle: A royal fortress from the 6th century. This fortress dominates the city skyline and is a must-see. While in the castle, be sure to check out the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.
• Arthur’s Seat: This is an extinct volcano in Holyrood Park and is a must-see for panoramic views of the city of Edinburgh.
• Royal Mile: Take a walk along the famous Royal Mile, which runs from the castle to Holyrood Palace. Along the way, you’ll find historic buildings, stores, and pubs.
• Whisky Tasting: Edinburgh is a great place to learn about and taste Scotland’s national drink. Consider visiting the Scotch Whisky Experience or a Whisky Tour.

Best time to visit: The summer months, June through August, when the weather is at its best and the days are longer, are perfect for sightseeing. August is also when the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes place, but accommodation prices will be at their highest and the city is very crowded. The spring months of April to May and the fall months of September to October have cooler temperatures and will have fewer visitors.

Recommended accommodation areas: Staying in the Old Town, you’ll be in the midst of historical attractions and busy streets. Look for hotels or guesthouses around the Royal Mile or Grassemarket. The New Town is right next to the Old Town and has a wider choice of hotels.

What Is The Best Country To Visit From London: Abroad

If you have a long weekend and want to cross the channel to experience the atmosphere of a different country. Thanks to fast Eurostar transfers and short flights, some European cities are perfect for making weekend trips from London to Europe.

Lille, France

Lille is not as world-famous as Paris, but it is also a major city in the north of France and a major transportation hub in Europe. It is full of monuments and sites, artistic sculptures, and galleries. For a destination that is close by and has many historical attractions, Lille would be your first choice.

Way of Transportation: The Eurostar train from London St. Pancras International to Lille Europa Station is very fast, taking only about 1 hour and 20 minutes. This is even less time than it takes to travel to many destinations within the UK.

Things to do

• Place du Général de Gaulle: In the center of the square is a statue worth a closer look. It is the Colonne de la Déesse, a goddess column commemorating the heroic acts of the people of Lille during the French Revolution. The buildings around the Grand Place are in the Flemish style, appreciate its differences.
• Old Lille: The cobblestone streets of the old town are filled with beautiful 17th-century buildings, charming boutiques, and delicious patisseries.
• Bourse La Vieille: This grand 17th-century building was once a stock exchange and is now home to a second-hand book market and frequent tango shows in the courtyard.
• Sample French cuisine: carbonnade flamande, moules frites, and, of course, tons of delicious French cheeses and pastries.

Best time to visit: April through June and September are great times to visit Lille when the weather is moderate and there is an annual flea market in September.

Recommended accommodation areas: The hotel is clustered in two areas, Vieux-Lille and the center of Lille, where you can stay near the Grand Place or in the old town of Lille. This puts you within easy walking distance of the main attractions, restaurants, and stores.

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is the capital and largest city of Ireland. It is a hospitable city, so for some crazy and buzzing pub culture, come to Dublin and find out what it’s like.

Way of Transportation: The fastest way to get to Dublin is by air, departing from London Stansted Airport. Flight times are usually around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. Trains and ferries take too long and are not suitable for weekend trips.

Things to do

• Dublin Castle: Built-in 1204, once a military base, now a major government building. There are different exhibits to visit inside at different times of the year.
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Ireland’s largest church offers a glimpse into centuries of Irish history and faith.
• Guinness Storehouse: Represents over two centuries of Irish brewing history. Taste the beer, tour the production, and you can even have your selfie headshot printed onto the beer foam for a one-of-a-kind moment.
• Trinity College and the Book of Kells: Visit Ireland’s oldest university and marvel at the Long Room Library. This is home to the manuscript, The Book of Kells, which is displayed two pages at a time, rotating every twelve weeks.

Best time to visit: During the summer months, from June to August, Dublin enjoys a warm climate with some rainfall. There is also a food festival in June.

Recommended accommodation areas: The city center is the best area to stay for easy access to attractions. Areas such as Temple Bar, Grafton Street, or around Stephen’s Green offer a range of hotels and guest houses.

Rotterdam, Netherlands

Rotterdam is known as a port city and the second-largest city in the Netherlands. It is famous for its strangely shaped buildings, riverside views, and famous markets. Compared to Amsterdam, it has a more active and modern feel.

Way of Transportation: Eurostar trains from London St. Pancras International offer a direct service to Rotterdam Central Station, taking approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Things to do

• Markthal: This building is a combination of a market hall, residential apartments, and a restaurant. It is the largest indoor market in the Netherlands, shaped by an arch design and a glass facade. In the center are various stalls for fresh and cooked food, plus a variety of stores and cafes. It’s worth spending half a day exploring.
• Kubuswoningen: These iconic tilted yellow houses designed by Piet Blom are a Rotterdam landmark. You can even visit the show house to see what it’s like inside.
• Euromast: This is the best viewpoint in Rotterdam, where you can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of the city through the glass in the ground.

Best time to visit: April to May and September to November are excellent times for sightseeing with moderate temperatures.

Recommended accommodation areas: Staying near Rotterdam Central Station or in the city center allows you to walk to most attractions. It is also possible to try a specialty accommodation like a boathouse on the river.

Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp is known as the fashion and cultural capital of Europe and is the centerpiece of European diamond processing. This, together with the world-renowned art of painting and numerous museums, makes it one of the most popular destinations.

Way of Transportation: You can take the Eurostar from London St. Pancras International to Brussels South Station (approx. 2 hours) and then take a short connecting train to Antwerp Central Station (approx. 40 minutes) to Antwerp. The total journey time is about 3 hours.

Things to do

• Antwerp Central Station: When you get off the train here, take some time to admire this train station, known as the Cathedral Station. The neo-baroque style and a golden old wall clock in the center of the station tell the history of the place.
• Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to several masterpieces by the Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens.
• MoMu: If you’re interested in fashion, Antwerp is a major fashion center with the world’s largest collection of contemporary Belgian fashion.
• Diamond District: Explore the world-famous diamond district near the train station, where most of the world’s diamonds are traded.

Best time to visit: The months of April through September are perfect for traveling to Antwerp, the weather is cool and the temperatures are not too high even in the summer. Theater, music, and dance events are held in July and August.

Recommended accommodation areas: It is possible to stay in the Zurenborg and Sint-Andries areas, with Zurenborg being more conveniently located in the city center. Staying in the Sint-Andries area offers a river view.

Luxembourg

Luxembourg is culturally diverse and has a highly developed economy. Although the country is small, it has well-preserved medieval architecture and natural landscapes. It’s a little far from London, but perfect for a long weekend trip.

Way of Transportation: The fastest way to get from London to Luxembourg is by air, with direct flights taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the Eurostar to Brussels, then take a transfer to Liege-Guillemins, and finally the FlixBus to Luxembourg, which takes around five hours in total.

Things to do

• Old Quarter: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, perched on a cliff with beautiful views. Here you can explore the Casemates du Bock, the Grand Ducal Palace, and the Cathedral Notre-Dame of Luxembourg nearby.
• Chemin de la Corniche: Often referred to as “Europe’s most beautiful balcony”, this promenade offers breathtaking views of the Grund and the Alzette Valley. Grund area and the Alzette Valley.
• Wine tasting in the Moselle: a 25-minute drive to Luxembourg’s wine region, famous for its sparkling wines and dry Rieslings.
• Adolphe Bridge: This is a stone viaduct and a landmark in Luxembourg. The arch bridge is symmetrical on both sides, left and right, making it a very good bridge construction.

Best time to visit: Luxembourg has warm days and cool nights from June to August, which makes it a perfect time for all kinds of sightseeing. The weather is even cooler from September to October, which is also ideal for wine lovers during the harvest season.

Recommended accommodation areas: The hotels are concentrated in the Ville Haute area, also in the heart of Luxembourg. Staying in the Gare area is also a good option.

FAQ

Where to go from London for 3 days?

For a fulfilling 3-day weekend trip from London, you have great options in the UK and Europe.

Within the UK:

• Portsmouth: Portsmouth is a port city with a rich maritime heritage. It is a 1 hour and 30-minute drive from London, but even if you don’t have a car, you can take the train, which takes the same amount of time.
• Cambridge: The famous university town with its historic buildings is a great place to visit for its academic atmosphere. Cambridge is easily accessible by train from London’s King’s Cross station. Direct services are frequent and take about 50 minutes to 1 hour.
• Glasgow: Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city, full of Victorian architecture and great museums. A direct train service from London Euston takes about 5 hours. Or opt for a faster flight and arrive in 1 hour and 20 minutes.

To Europe:

• Amsterdam, Netherlands: Enjoy iconic canals, brightly colored houses, and beautiful tulips. The train from London St. Pancras International to Amsterdam Central Station takes about 4 hours. By plane, it takes 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• Rouen, France: This city is famous for its magnificent cathedral, medieval half-timbered houses, and its association with Joan of Arc. The fastest way to get there is by airplane, which takes 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• Ghent, Belgium: It is a university town with Belgium’s top-ranked Ghent University and a medieval castle. Take the Eurostar from London’s St. Pancras International station to Brussels Midi train station, then take a short connecting train to Gent-Sint-Pieters station, for a total journey time of about 3 hours.

What countries are close to London by train?

France: Lille is very close, less than 1 hour and 20 minutes. Paris is also a very popular choice and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Belgium: Brussels is a 2-hour train ride from London. From Brussels you can travel to other Belgian cities such as Ghent and Bruges, just a short train ride away.

Netherlands: Rotterdam is about 3 hours 15 minutes direct by Eurostar and Amsterdam is about 4 hours direct.

What countries are 2 hours from London?

Many European cities are shorter by train or plane, making them ideal for weekend trips from London.

By train (less than 2 hours)

• France (Lille): As mentioned, Lille is the fastest international train trip, taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
• Belgium (Brussels): A quick trip across the English Channel, Brussels is less than 2 hours away by Eurostar.

By Plane (approx. 2 hours)

• France: Nice can be reached in approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours.
• Ireland: Dublin is always between 1 hour 15 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes by air.
• Italy: Milan can be reached by air in approximately 2 hours.
• Spain: Barcelona is usually 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours by air.
• Switzerland: Flights to Geneva and Zurich are usually between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours.
• Germany: Cities such as Frankfurt or Hamburg are usually about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours by air.