Discover 7 peaceful and affordable weekend getaways from London for under £200.
Perfect for mindful travelers seeking serenity, nature, and budget-friendly escapes.
In a world of hustle and constant notifications, sometimes the best gift you can give yourself is a quiet escape. Whether you’re craving a digital detox, a breath of fresh countryside air, or a tranquil coastal walk, these 7 calm and scenic weekend getaways from London are perfect for recharging. Even better? Each one can be done for under £200, including travel and accommodation.
So pack light, breathe deeply, and let your next peaceful journey begin.
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1. The Cotswolds
Distance from London: ~2 hours by train or car
Ah, the Cotswolds! This area of outstanding natural beauty is perfect for a peaceful weekend away. I’ve spent many happy weekends here, wandering through picturesque villages and enjoying the rolling hills.
- Stay in a cozy B&B in Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’
- Take a stroll along the River Windrush
- Visit the Model Village, a miniature replica of Bourton-on-the-Water
- Must visit Birdland Park & Garden if you are travelling with Kids
- Car lover – visit Cotswold Motoring Museum
- Enjoy a traditional cream tea at a local café
“The Cotswolds are like stepping into a postcard of quintessential England.”
2. Whitstable, Kent
Distance: ~1.5 hours by train
This charming seaside town is famous for its oysters, but there’s so much more to discover. I love the laid-back vibe and the beautiful pebble beaches.
- Stroll along the colorful beach huts on Tankerton Beach
- Try some fresh oysters at the Whitstable Oyster Company
- Visit Whitstable Castle and Gardens
- Take a walk along the Saxon Shore Way coastal path
3. Cambridge
Distance: ~1 hour by train or 2 hours by car
Cambridge is a delightful mix of history, culture, and beautiful architecture. I always feel a bit smarter just walking around this university town!
- Go punting on the River Cam (it’s harder than it looks, trust me!)
- Visit King’s College Chapel and marvel at its stunning Gothic architecture
- Explore the many museums, including the Fitzwilliam Museum
- Relax in the beautiful Cambridge University Botanic Garden
🚆 “Skip the queues and book your train in advance — check schedules and book tickets here.”
4. New Forest, Hampshire
Distance: ~2 hours by train
The New Forest is a magical place where ponies roam free and ancient woodlands stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s my go-to place when I need to reconnect with nature.
- Rent bikes and explore the many cycling trails
- Look out for the famous New Forest ponies
- Visit the charming village of Beaulieu and its National Motor Museum
- Take a relaxing walk in the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary
5. Brighton
Distance: ~1.5 hours by train
Brighton is like London’s cool, quirky cousin by the sea. It’s vibrant, fun, and full of character. I always come back from Brighton feeling refreshed and inspired.
- Explore the narrow lanes of The Lanes shopping area
- Visit the iconic Brighton Pier and try your luck at the arcade
- Take in the views from the British Airways i360 observation tower
- Relax on the pebbly beach with some fish and chips
6. Rye, East Sussex
Distance: ~1.5 hours by train
Rye is a little gem of a town that seems frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and medieval buildings make me feel like I’ve stepped back into history.
- Climb the tower of St Mary’s Church for panoramic views
- Visit the enchanting Mermaid Street, one of the prettiest streets in England
- Explore Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
- Enjoy a pint at the Mermaid Inn, a former smugglers’ haunt
🚆 Embrace slow travel. Rent a car and take the scenic route through the countryside — click here to explore car options.
7. Bath
Distance: ~1.5 hours by train
Bath is a city that never fails to impress me with its Georgian architecture and Roman history. It’s the perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and beauty.
- Visit the Roman Baths and imagine life 2000 years ago
- Take a dip in the rooftop pool at Thermae Bath Spa
- Admire the sweeping Royal Crescent
- Enjoy a Sally Lunn bun at the historic Sally Lunn’s Eating House
“Bath is like a living museum, but with great restaurants and spas!”
Conclusion: You don’t have to travel far (or spend a fortune) to find stillness. Whether you’re meditating on a quiet hilltop in the Cotswolds or sipping tea by the sea in Whitstable, these weekend trips invite you to pause, reflect, and return refreshed.
So the next time your soul needs a little peace, consider one of these mindful getaways — and let your journey begin.
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