The 16 Best UK Weekend Breaks
Looking for the best London breaks by train? You’re in the right place. I lived in London for 4 years, and spent many weekends travelling around the UK and further afield by train. It’s one of my favourite ways to travel – no fussing at security, just sit back, relax, and drink a few wines.
In this article, I’ll cover 16 of my favourite destinations just a train ride away from London, from coastal retreats to bustling cities. You’ll also learn about the best things and do whilst you’re there, and my recommendations on where to stay.
Ready to learn about the best London breaks by train? Let’s go.
London breaks by train: FAQs
Where is 2 hours by train from London?
There’s lots of places you can reach on the train within 2 hours of London. If you fancy a beach break, you can visit Brighton, Rye, Margate, Whitstable or Deal. If you prefer the city, try Bristol or Bath. And if you’re a history fan, Oxford and Cambridge are perfect.
Is there a nonstop train from London to Edinburgh?
Yes, you can get a nonstop (direct) train from London to Edinburgh with LNER and Avanti West Coast, although the LNER trains are much more frequent, and faster. The LNER trains depart from Kings Cross. and the Avanti trains depart from London Euston.
What are the shortest train rides from London to other countries?
The Eurostar has some of the shortest train rides from London to other countries. Trains from London to Paris take 2 and a half hours, trains to Brussels take 1 hour 55, Amsterdam takes 4 hours and Rotterdam takes 3 and a half.
Can I take a train from London to Ireland?
No, you can’t take a train from London to Ireland. You have to cross water and there’s no link between the two like there is with the Eurostar. You’d need to get a train to Liverpool, and then a ferry to Dublin.
London breaks by train: less than 2 hours
The beauty of London is that you can get a direct train to so many beautiful destinations in just a couple of hours. There’s no need to even take the day off work, hop on the train on Friday night and spend the weekend exploring somewhere new.
1. Whitstable
Distance from London: 1 hour 19 minutes
Direct train: Yes
Journey: London Victoria to Whitstable
The picturesque seaside destination of Whitstable is the perfect choice for a weekend getaway from London. Whitstable has a unique charm that’s hard to find in British seaside towns – packed full of character, with plenty of independent shops and restaurants. It’s famed for its Oysters, so it’d be rude not to try one, and Wheeler’s Oyster Bar is the most popular spot for them. The pink building on the high street is hard to miss – just make sure you book in advance.
Where to stay in Whitstable
In my eyes, there’s only one place to stay in Whitstable, and that’s the Fisherman Huts. Once used as fisherman stores, they’re basic, but you can step out your door and be on the beach. We stayed here a few years ago and took the deckchairs out onto the beach to watch the sunset with fish and chips. It’s one of my favourite memories.
2. Deal
Distance from London: 1 hour 44 minutes
Direct train: Yes
Journey: London Victoria to Deal
A small town on the Kent coast, Deal is often overlooked for nearby Whitstable, but I think it’s even better. Thanks to the thriving creative community, there’s brilliant independent shops, great restaurants and some pretty lively pubs. Check out No Name Shop, Dunlin & Diver, Smoke on the Water and my favourite, Mileage – a vintage and interiors home store.
After, grab a coffee and cake from Popup Cafe, or fish and chips on the beach. In the evening, there’s nowhere better for dinner than The Dining Club – a private dining club serving locally sourced ingredients. Afterwards, pop in to Le Pinardier, a wine bar with regular live music.
Where to stay in Deal
The Rose Deal is the coolest spot in town, with fun interiors, great food and a small courtyard, just 2 minutes from the beach. The Rose does details well; expect toiletries from Norfolk-based brand Austin Austin, record players in the bedrooms, and whisky nightcaps alongside the tea and coffee stations.
3. Margate
Distance from London: 1 hour 42 minutes
Direct train: Yes
Journey: London Victoria to Margate
Also along the Kent coastline, Margate’s abundance of boutique shops, buzzy cafe’s and arty residents has earned it the nickname “Shoreditch on Sea”. It’s still a little rough around the edges, but the charm of this place is magnetic. Book a table at Sargasso, a small wine bar run by the duo behind London’s Brawn. Unlike Deal and Whitstable, Margate has a sandy beach, and a huge one at that. So if the weather forecast says sunshine, pack your bags and get on a train to Margate!
Where to stay in Margate
Book a room at the recently refurbished Fort Road Hotel. It’s just moments from the seafront, and most of the 14 bedrooms have views over the ocean. The mid-century design perfectly compliments its location, and there’s a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.
4. Bristol
Distance from London: 1 hour 37 minutes
Direct train: Yes
Journey: London Paddington to Bristol
Bristol is a bustling city and one of my favourite places to visit from London. Wander into town and you’ll find Wapping Wharf, a series of shipping containers perfect for grabbing lunch. Grab taco’s at Cargo Cantina or pies from Buxton and Birdpies.
You can’t visit Bristol without walking to Clifton and seeing the Clifton Suspension Bridge. It sits on the cliffs of the Avon Gorge and you can walk across it for free. Banksy hails from Bristol too, so make sure you look out for his graffiti scattered across the city.
Where to stay in Bristol
Bristol had long been in need of a great place to spend the night. So when one of my favourite UK hotels, Artist Residence, arrived in the city last year, it was a welcome revelation. Just 5 minutes from Cabot Circus shopping centre and arty Stokes Croft, it’s a great base for exploring.
If you don’t mind being further out of town, snap up a bargain at Mollie’s Motel. From the people behind Soho House, it’s well designed, with thoughtful touches such as Cowshed toiletries and Dyson hairdryers in the bedrooms. And best of all, rooms here start at £60pn.
5. Rye
Distance from London: 1 hour 38 minutes
Direct train: No
Journey: London Bridge > Ashford > Rye
The sleepy coastal town of Rye is the perfect escape from busy London life. The cobbled streets and crooked cottages give it a fairytale feel, and although there’s not loads to see, it’s a great spot for switching off and slowing down. Whilst Rye itself doesn’t have a beach, it’s just down the road from Camber Sands – the only beach in East Sussex with sand rather than pebbles.
Where to stay in Rye
Wave goodbye to any expectations you may have of a British seaside hotel, The Gallivant takes design inspirations from The Hamptons, so airy spaces, classic design and fresh food come as standard.
On Rye high street, Whitehouse Rye is a cafe and bakery with 6 bedrooms above. The heritage-listed building combines original features with modern touches.
6. Oxford
Distance from London: 53 minutes
Direct train: Yes
Journey: London Paddington to Oxford
The university town has bags of character, and plenty of history. From the University colleges to The Radcliffe camera, there’s a lot to be discovered. If you’re a fan of shopping, you’ll feel at home in Oxford, with a bustling high street full of big brands.
The main reason I’d recommend Oxford is because it’s a gateway to The Cotswolds, my favourite part of the UK. I’m cheating a little bit here, as ideally you’d pick up a car to make it easier to get around the villages. But, there’s public transport too if you can’t (or simply don’t want to) drive.
I use Discover Car whenever I’m hiring a car. They compare lots of different providers and find you the best price. Plus, I’ve never had any bad experiences where they won’t give you your money back at the end like you sometimes hear about with dodgy car hire companies. The process is always really simple and stress-free. Which is exactly what I want when I’m on holiday, thank you.
Head to the charming towns of Bibury, Lower Slaughter and Stow-on-the-Wold, before stopping for lunch at The Bell Inn Langford, a cosy country pub with excellent fried chicken.
Where to stay in Oxford
Taking inspiration from the University, The Randolph Hotel is just a short stroll from the main sights. The design won’t be to everyone’s taste, but I’m a fan of the clashing prints. Plus, they offer free bikes which are perfect for getting around the city.
7. Cambridge
Distance from London: 55 minutes
Direct train: Yes
Journey: Kings Cross to Cambridge
Cambridge might be famed for its university, but there’s much more to it than that. It’s one of my favourite cities in the UK, with plenty to keep you entertained. Take a punt down the River Cam, a stroll through the Botanic Gardens, grab a pastry at Fitzbillies and a rooftop dinner at Six.
Don’t leave without visiting the Mathematical Bridge – one of the most recognisable places in Cambridge, built in the 18th-century. Although it appears to be arched, it’s built using entirely straight timbers, a highly sophisticated design, especially for 300 years ago!
Where to stay in Cambridge
Check in to Turing Locke – an aparthotel with plenty more space than a typical hotel room.
If you’re looking to treat yourself, you can’t beat University Arms. The hotel overlooks Parkers Piece, a huge green space in the heart of the city.
8. York
Distance from London: 1 hour 50 minutes
Direct train: Yes
Journey: London Kings Cross to York
The historic town of York doesn’t need a big pitch to convince you to visit, the beauty of the city does all the talking. It’s one of the best London breaks by train. Take a stroll down the shambles, which is actually anything but, the cobbled street is lined with timber-framed buildings, and it’s one of the most popular spots in York. Get up early to try and catch the street with no one on it.
Set aside a couple of hours to walk the city walls – built by the Romans around 71 AD. And it wouldn’t be a trip to York without visiting Betty’s – the popular cafe has been serving afternoon tea since the early 1900’s.
Where to stay in York
Check in to No.1 by GuestHouse, just a 10-minute walk from the centre of York. Located in a Grade II listed townhouse, this hotel is stunning inside and out. There’s 39 bedrooms, including 3 suites, complete with separate living spaces, balconies and four-posted beds.
9. Bath
Distance from London: 1 hour 22 minutes
Direct train: Yes
Journey: London Paddington to Bath
Bath is the only city in the UK named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s packed full of history. It was founded by the Romans in the 1st century AD who utilised its natural hot springs to build baths across the city. Despite falling into ruin, when spa’s became popular again during the early 18th century, architects redesigned the city, keeping the baths at the heart.
Whilst you can’t bathe in the water anymore, you can pay a visit to the nearby Thermae bath spa – it’s Britain’s only natural thermal spa and the rooftop pool offers amazing views over the city. If you’re a Bridgerton fan, join a walking tour that shows you all of the filming locations.
Beckford bottle shop is a must – a cosy wine bar serving small plates. And it’s only a short stroll from Pulteney Bridge, Bath’s most iconic viewpoint. But if you only do one thing, make it dinner at The Walcot. The former bakery has been renovated into a restaurant and underground cocktail bar – and the food was some of the best I’ve ever had.
Where to stay in Bath
Bath had been crying out for a beautiful boutique hotel for a while, and The Yard fits the bill perfectly. Once a coaching inn, it’s been revived into a boutique hotel in the heart of the city. There’s 14 king-sized bedrooms, each with REN toiletries, Netflix, a Roberts radio & Nespresso machines.
London breaks by train: 2 – 5 hours
If you don’t mind staying on the train for a little while longer, there’s lots of great UK destinations you can reach within 5 hours. And if you think about the fact you’d have to get to the airport 2 hours before your flight anyway, it’s probably quicker!
1. Manchester
Distance from London: 2 hours 15 minutes
Direct train: Yes
Journey: London Euston to Manchester
Manchester’s one of my favourite cities in the UK. So much so, I actually lived there for a couple of years when I first graduated. It’s full of brilliant bars, incredible restaurants & endless things to do, it’s basically a mini-London (but cheaper).
If you’re a fan of science and history, you’ll love the Manchester Museum or the Science and Industry Museum. Looking for something a bit different to do? Try your hand at an escape room or even the crystal maze. In the evening, head to Albert’s Schloss for drinks, there’s always a brilliant atmosphere, live music, and dancing on tables.
Where to stay in Manchester
King Street Townhouse is hard to beat. There’s 40 bedrooms, a restaurant, a cinema and a world-class spa. Relax in the salt cave, grab a massage, or head to the infinity pool overlooking Manchester city centre.
2. Lake District
Distance from London: 3 hours
Direct train: Yes
Journey: Euston to Penrith or Oxenholme
The Lake District is a place that feels out of this world, and one of the best London breaks by train. From quaint towns to rolling hills, there’s something for everyone. In fact, there’s so much to see, you’d never fit it into a weekend. Nature lovers will be right at home here, with some of the most beautiful walks in the country.
But if you prefer a good meal and a drink, that’s fine too. There’s plenty of towns full of character and a great atmosphere. Pay a visit to the Great North Pie Company in Ambleside, they’re some of the best pies I’ve ever had. And try to get a table at L’Enclume, the restaurant delivers a tasting menu focused on locally sourced ingredients, and gets booked up well in advance.
Where to stay in The Lake District
Nestled on the outskirts of Ambleside, hotel locations don’t get much better than Rothay Manor. You’ve got the best of both worlds here – with incredible countryside views over the fells, but being walking distance from the fantastic pubs, restaurants and sights in town.
Their restaurant has been awarded 3 AA rosette’s and the food is exceptional. I stayed at the hotel last December and it was some of the best food I’ve ever had. Even the breakfast was impeccable.
There’s 23 rooms to choose from, spread across the manor and the new Pavillion building. I’d recommend booking one of the new Pavillion suites, the design is beautiful. We checked into Buttermere, and my boyfriend and I agreed it was probably the nicest hotel room we’ve ever stayed in (and we’ve stayed in a lot!).
3. Edinburgh
Distance from London: 4 hours 25 minutes
Direct train: Yes
Journey: London Kings Cross to Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city that has you under its spell the minute you arrive. It’s full of history, culture and considered architecture, so you don’t have to look far to find a pretty street or building. There’s always something new to discover – a cosy cafe, a new restaurant opening, or a cool new event.
If you’re visiting at Christmas, there’s few places quite like Edinburgh. The Christmas markets open in Princes Street Gardens, and buildings across the city are decorated to celebrate the occasion.
One of my favourite times to visit Edinburgh though is in August, when the Fringe festival is on. It’s a month-long festival of performing arts. Pubs, shops, and bars across the city turn into venues, and if you’re lucky, you might discover the next up and coming act. Six the Musical started as a Fringe show in 2017 and is now a worldwide theatre production.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
For a budget stay with no sacrifice on design, Eden Locke is perfect. Just a few minutes walk from Princes Street, you’ll be in the heart of the action in no time. If you looking for luxury, you can’t beat Gleneagles Townhouse. It’s the sister location to the iconic Gleneagles hotel in the Scottish countryside, and it’s adopted the same stunning interiors, brilliant food, and impeccable service.
London breaks by train: Outside the UK
Why limit yourself to a break in the UK? With the Eurostar now offer routes to Amsterdam, Paris, Brussels and Rotterdam, so you can be exploring a whole new country in just a few hours.
1. Amsterdam
Distance from London: 4 hours 9 minutes
Direct train: Yes
Journey: St Pancras to Amsterdam
Amsterdam is my favourite city in all of Europe, and it’s one of the best London breaks by train. Whilst its red-light district reputation perhaps once preceded it, these days, the city’s known for so much more. Uber-cool coffee shops, lively bars, and the greenery of Vondelpark, there’s something for everyone here. Amsterdam’s the kind of place you visit and immediately start planning how you’re going to uproot your life and move there.
Amsterdam’s a city where I’d advocate for ticking off the tourist spots. A visit to the Anne Frank Museum is a must, and make sure you get the ferry across to Amsterdam-Noord,where you’ll find the A-dam lookout, where you’ll even have a chance to swing over the building. Make sure you explore Jordaan – a trendy neighbourhood famed for its indie shops and hipster hangouts
Where to stay in Amsterdam
It has to be The Hoxton. Located on the canal, with some of the best bars and restaurants just a short stroll away. Most of the rooms have canal views, and if you book directly, you can choose your check in and check out time, which is ideal if you’re on an early train.
2. Paris
Distance from London: 2 hours 22 minutes
Direct train: Yes
Journey: St Pancras to Paris
I put off going to Paris for years because I wanted to go with a boyfriend. Luckily I realised how pathetic that was and took the Eurostar to Paris with my friend about 5 years ago. It’s a magical place, no matter who you’re visiting with. Stop for chocolate mousse at Chez Janou, steak at l’Entrecôte and a walk along the Seine. If you can, squeeze in a trip to Disneyland Paris. It’s not as good as the one in America but it’s still worth a visit.
Make sure you take a stroll around Montmartre, a former artists village where Picasso used to live. The streets are straight out of a fairtytale – lined with charming buildings, and its hilltop location offers amazing views over the city.
Where to stay in Paris
Paris is packed full of beautiful hotels. I’d recommend sacking off the Eiffel tower view (it’s going to cost you a fortune and probably be quite stuffy), and going for good design instead. Some of my favourites are Hotel des Grands Boulevards, Hotel Les Deux Gares, Hotel Rochechouart, Hôtel Saint-André des Arts and The Hoxton.
London breaks by train: Planning the perfect trip
TRAINS: Find the cheapest journeys using the Trainline
CAR HIRE: I use Discover Cars whenever I’m hiring a car. They compare lots of different providers and find you the best price.
ACCOMMODATION: Find the most affordable (+ beautiful) hotels on Booking.com.
ACTIVITIES & DAY TRIPS: Book skip-the-line tickets to the best activities Viator
Hopefully you found this guide to the perfect London breaks by train helpful. Let me know your favourite place in the comments.
