There are plenty of incredible things about London.
It has a stunning 2,000 year history, some wonderful culture, iconic landmarks and a list of attractions that would make any other city on earth pretty jealous.
But one thing that makes London so special, aside from the city itself, is the fact that getting pretty much anywhere in the country is very easy. This is in part thanks to London’s geographical location in the heart of the country, but it’s also down to the rail and road connections that the UK offers.
The expansive rail network lets you travel pretty much anywhere in the country with relative ease- so why limit yourself to the city?
Make the most of your time in The Piccadilly West End Hotel, one of the very best hotels in West End London, and explore the country beyond the city. Maximise on the amazing London West End hotel deals and experience everything that the UK has to offer.
Now let’s take a look at some of the best cities you can easily reach from London, for a day of adventure before returning to your hotel in the city and enjoying one of the best restaurants West End London has to offer.
Bath
Bath is a picturesque city located in the southwest of England, just 90 minutes from London by train.
The city is famous for its Roman baths, which date back to the 1st century AD, and its stunning Georgian architecture. Visitors can explore the 2,000 year old Roman baths, which are still fed by natural hot springs, as well as the city’s many other historic sites, such as Bath Abbey and the Royal Crescent.
Bath is also home to a range of museums, galleries, restaurants and shops, making it a great destination for culture and shopping and food.
Oxford
Oxford is a historic city located just one hour by train from the centre of London.
The city is famous for its world-renowned university, which dates back to the 12th century, and its stunning architecture.
Visitors can explore the many historic colleges of the university, such as Christ Church and Magdalen College, as well as the city’s many museums, galleries, and shops.
Oxford is also where you’ll the famous Bodleian Library, which is one of the oldest libraries in Europe, and offers some stunning history and culture.
Cambridge
Yet another world famous University is housed in Cambridge, putting the gorgeous town on the map.
The city is famous for its stunning architecture, including the world-renowned King’s College Chapel.
Exploring the wonderful colleges of the University, such as Trinity College and St John’s College, is a great way to spend the day- as well as the city’s many museums, galleries, and shops.
Cambridge is also home to the famous Cambridge University Botanic Garden, which is home to a wide range of plant species.
Enjoy the picturesque cobbled streets, boutique stores and beautiful river in this lovely town.
Brighton
Brighton has sort of become the place where Londoners head to the beach. It’s the quintessential example of a beautiful seaside town with a lot more to offer.
The city is famous for its pier, its beach, and its vibrant nightlife. The live music scene here is one of the best in the country, so head to a pub or bar to catch a great show.
Visitors can explore the many independent shops and cafes in the city’s Lanes area, as well as the Royal Pavilion, a stunning palace built for King George IV in the early 19th century.
Brighton is also home to a range of museums and galleries, as well as a thriving arts scene.
Canterbury
Canterbury is an extremely historic city with a lot of beautiful countryside and plenty of wonderful architecture.
The city is famous for its cathedral, which dates back to the 11th century, and its rich history.
You can explore the many historic sites in the city, such as the ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey and the mediaeval Westgate Towers.
Canterbury is also home to many museums, galleries, restaurants and cafes that help to curate the wonderful cultural scene.
Windsor
Windsor is the closest city to the centre of London on this list at a mere 30 minutes by train- but it has an awful lot to offer.
The town is famous for Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the British royal family, and the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Visitors can explore the castle’s many state rooms, as well as the beautiful gardens and grounds.
You can catch the Changing of Guard ceremony here for free, just like at Buckingham Palace, but it gets pretty busy so be sure to get there quickly!
Meanwhile, in Windsor itself you’ll find a large range of independent shops and cafes, as well as the Windsor Great Park, a large and very beautiful deer park.
Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming town located in the heart of the English country, just 2 hours from London by train.
The town is famous for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare, and visitors can explore the many historic sites associated with the playwright, such as his birthplace, his grave, and the Royal Shakespeare Company’s theatres.
You can also enjoy a wide range of boutique shops, some excellent cafes and tea rooms, and the wonderful architecture in the town.
Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a vibrant and large seaside city only an hour and a half from London.
The city is famous for its naval heritage, and stunning docklands. Exploring the historic naval sights is a real treat that should not be missed. Sights like the Mary Rose Museum that houses the remains of the Tudor warship that was sunk in 1545 are truly a marvel, and you can even explore the HMS Victory; Admiral Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar, where the war hero was killed.
Aside from the stunning naval history, Portsmouth is also home to some great seafront shopping and dining, an old fort and the wonderful Spinnaker Tower.
Exploring the UK From London
Using London as a base and exploring the UK is a great way to experience everything that this amazing country offers.
You’ll be able to enjoy the stunning city, the iconic English countryside and some of the best cities that the UK has to offer.
Even if you’re visiting the best corporate accommodation London West End has to offer for work, you can still make full use of the city’s connections, and explore brilliant Britain.
