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Ever find yourself aching for a change of scenery from Manchester’s seemingly never-ending concrete? Well, I’ve got you covered. These day trips from Manchester are just a short distance away from the city, but you’ll feel half a world away! 

Manchester’s surroundings are a gold mine of rugged countryside, historic towns, world-class cities, and even the seaside!

And it’s no problem if you don’t have a car. The majority of the day trips from Manchester on this list are accessible by train or bus, so you don’t even need to stress about getting behind the wheel.

Let’s get started.

Liverpool

The Many Sights of Liverpool

The Many Sights of Liverpool

At just a 45-minute train ride away from Manchester, Liverpool is the obvious choice for a day trip from Manchester. 

There’s so much to see and do here that you won’t know where to start! Obviously, Liverpool is the home of the Beatles, so exploring Liverpool’s Beatles sights on a Beatles tour is an unmissable experience. 

For first-timers and casual fans, hop aboard the bright yellow and blue Magical Mystery Tour bus for an unforgettable 2-hour Beatles crash course! You’ll get to check out all of the top sights like Penny Lane, John Lennon’s House and Strawberry Fields.

Another great thing to do in Liverpool is to wander around the Albert Dock, where the old warehouses now burst with a tonne of fascinating museums, bars and restaurants. It’s one of the most photogenic spots in the city.

Wandering further along the water, you’ll come across the Museum of Liverpool, which documents the city’s past from its origins to the present day (including all the music and football trivia you could ask for). What’s more, it’s free! 

Round off your day trip to Liverpool with a night out on Mathew Street. It’s the liveliest part of the city, where you can dance the night away to live music every night of the week.

London

London Skyline

London Skyline

Yes, you read that right. London is a day trip from Manchester. Who would’ve thought, right? With just a two-hour train journey, you can be in the beating heart of the capital. It’s true that things in London cost more than in Manchester, but if you’re only in the city for a day it won’t be a huge problem.

Standing regally at the city’s core is Buckingham Palace, the royal residence of the monarch. If you time it right, you can even catch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony. A short walk away, you’ll find the sprawling expanse of the Royal Parks – including St. James’s and Hyde Park. They’re some of the most stunning places in the city!

No visit to London is complete without capturing that postcard-perfect shot of Tower Bridge. With its iconic blue and white facade, this iconic landmark is a must-see whilst you’re in London, and you won’t be able to resist popping into the nearby Tower of London to get a taste of the oldest building in the city.

For foodies, Borough Market is pure heaven. You’ll find everything here – from fresh produce to home-baked goods, mouth-watering street food, and some of the best coffee ever!

Art enthusiasts can take a detour to the Tate Modern. This former power station, now a world-class art museum, houses masterpieces by artists like Picasso, Hockney, and Warhol. And the best part? Entry to the permanent collections is free!

Chester

The Mediaeval town of Chester, England

The Mediaeval town of Chester, England

Just an hour away by train from Manchester, the ancient city of Chester will transport you back in time. Its beautifully preserved Roman walls circle the city, and the best way to kick off your day trip is by walking along it, checking out the sheer beauty of the city and making you feel as though you’re retracing the steps of Roman centurions.

An iconic feature of Chester, The Rows, are a must-visit. These unique mediaeval two-tiered galleries are not just architectural wonders, but they also house quirky boutiques and cafes. This is the most fun and unique place to shop in the city.

On the hunt for designer deals? One of the top reasons people visit Chester on day trips from Manchester is for Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet. It’s easy to get to from the city centre, too – just a short, direct bus. This shopping centre boasts a whole host of luxury brands at discounted prices. It’s every bargain hunter’s dream.

If it’s a sunny day, there’s no lovelier way to pass an afternoon in Chester than on a sightseeing boat tour of the River Dee. You’ll drift past some of the city’s most historic landmarks, as well as its most beautiful spots.

Blackpool

Blackpool Tower and the coast

Blackpool Tower and the coast

Just a stone’s throw away from Manchester, Blackpool is jam-packed full of quintessential British seaside charm. It’s fun, it’s tacky, it’s cheap, and it’s by the sea. What more could you want? In a mere 75-minute train ride, you’ll be at the seaside – a far cry from Manchester!

The majestic Blackpool Tower is an icon on the Lancashire skyline and an absolutely beloved symbol of Blackpool’s history. You’re able to visit the top and stand on a glass platform (if you’re brave!) for a panoramic view that stretches as far as the eye can see. It’s a must-do whilst you’re in Blackpool.

For adrenaline junkies, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is one of the best theme parks near Manchester and promises a day of heart-pounding excitement. The star attraction, the Big One rollercoaster, towers 235 feet over the park and offers a thrill ride that’ll have you gripping the edges of your seat.

Stroll down to Blackpool’s iconic piers for a solid dose of history and entertainment. These structures harmoniously blend old-world charm with modern-day attractions. From vintage carousels to modern rides, and plenty of old and new arcade games, there’s fun to be had by everyone here.

But what’s a visit to the seaside without ice cream? Head over to Notarianni’s for some of the best ice cream in Blackpool. This traditional ice cream shop has been passed down through the family, so you’re guaranteed fabulous ice cream made with the family recipe.

York

York Minster from the Lendal Bridge

York Minster from the Lendal Bridge

York, a city that feels like time forgot, is just a two-hour direct train ride from Manchester, making it perfect for a day trip. Stepping off the train, you’ll instantly be transported to a place where the mediaeval and the modern coexist harmoniously.

The imposing York Minster, with its intricate Gothic architecture, dominates the city’s skyline. You’ll want to step inside to witness the sunlight as it streams through the stunning stained-glass windows.

For a deep dive into the city’s Viking past, the Jorvik Viking Centre is a treasure trove – and well worth the fairly hefty price tag. Interactive displays and immersive experiences transport you to a time when Norse settlers walked these very streets.

Speaking of streets, no visit to York is complete without wandering through The Shambles. With its overhanging timber-framed buildings and cobbled pathways, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped onto the set of a Harry Potter film. It’s even rumoured that this street was the influence behind Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.

Wind down your historical day out with a leisurely stroll along the River Ouse, watching rowers race one another along the water. It’s one of the most peaceful places in York, and on a sunny day, there’s no better place to be.

Leeds

Leeds Market

Leeds Market

A swift hour-long train journey from Manchester will bring you to Leeds, a city not too dissimilar from Manchester but that still offers a whole lot of fun.

Leeds Kirkgate Market is one of the top places to devour epic food in the city and stands as a testament to the city’s history. Pushing your way through its busy aisles, the chatter of traders and the aroma of fresh produce will take you back in time. This is far more exciting than modern-day grocery shops! 

The city’s Victorian grandeur is evident in every brick and beam, but it’s arguably most apparent at its many shopping arcades. Just look up and let the intricate facades and ornate detailing and you’ll feel like a very sophisticated shopper indeed.

For art aficionados, Leeds has plenty of galleries, but the best is Leeds Art Gallery, where you’ll find all sorts of art, from huge paintings completed hundreds of years ago to modern sculptures completed just a few months ago.

If you’re a student, or fancy heading to Leeds on a day trip to party, you really can’t miss the Otley Run. This epic pub crawl is a rite of passage for students in Leeds, and a whole load of fun to participate in, or just to spectate. Costumes are pretty common, so it’s entertaining to just sit back and watch the craziness unfold.

Hebden Bridge

Just a 45-minute train hop from Manchester, Hebden Bridge is the perfect escape from the city if you’re looking for countryside and hiking. This quaint town, nestled within the Calder Valley, is a bohemian wonderland where everybody is welcome to be themselves and express their creativity.

Begin your day out in Hebden Bridge by exploring its many independent shops, each brimming with arty finds, from handcrafted jewellery to one-of-a-kind antiques.

For those with a penchant for nature, the town is crisscrossed with scenic trails. An easy walk is to simply follow the path of the Rochdale Canal, watching narrowboats drift lazily by. For a more invigorating hike, trek up to Heptonstall. This picturesque village, perched above Hebden Bridge, is where famous author Sylvia Plath is buried, and it’s really old-fashioned.

For a more traditional hike, the walk to Hardcastle Crags is another must-do. It’s one of the best walks near Manchester! Visiting Hebden Bridge on a day trip from Manchester is the perfect escape from city living.

Edale

Edale Church

Edale Church

Just an hour away from Manchester by train lies Edale, a gem in the heart of the Peak District. This is another one of the many brilliant day trips from Manchester by train for hikers. As the gateway to the famed Pennine Way, this tranquil village serves as the perfect starting point for all sorts of adventures on foot.

Hikers flock to Edale for its unparalleled trails that weave through valleys and ascend rugged peaks. And when every step you take is accompanied by the soundtrack of chirping birds and the gentle rustle of leaves, you’ll understand why so many hikers head here on days out from Manchester.

If you’re up for a challenge, the Kinder Scout trail is perfect for you. As you make your way up this iconic peak, the terrain will vary, keeping even the most seasoned hikers on their toes. The climb is worth every bead of sweat, though. Standing at the top of Kinder Scout, the world stretches out beneath you in a panorama of rolling green and endless sky. This is worth leaving the city for!

But Edale is not just for the ambitious and energetic among us. Gentle walks alongside babbling brooks or through flower-laden meadows are also on offer, and you won’t have to look far to find them.

Lake District

The Lake District

The Lake District

Venture a little beyond Manchester’s borders, and you’ll be greeted by the wonderful Lake District. With a journey to Oxenholme taking just over an hour, followed by a quick hop to Windermere on a local service, the Lakes are surprisingly accessible by train.

This huge national park boasts shimmering lakes, rugged fells, and picturesque towns, each with its own charm. And while public transport will get you far enough for a day trip, to truly uncover the beauty of the Lakes, it really is best if you have a car.

Windermere, the largest natural lake in England, is the obvious starting point for your Lake District adventure. Hiring a rowboat here is the best way to fall in love with the lake and get away from the crowds during summer.

If you’re a book lover, you’re going to love the town of Grasmere. Here, you’ll get to wander in the footsteps of Wordsworth, checking out the same landscapes that inspired his verses.

Got your hiking boots ready? Then tackle the Helvellyn via Striding Edge Ridge hike, an 8-mile circular route offering some of the best views the Lakes has to offer.

Conwy

Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle

If you’re willing to venture slightly further afield, heading to Conwy in Wales is well worth the effort. Plus, with the direct train from Manchester taking just 2 hours, it’s really not all that much hassle.

Dominating the town’s skyline is Conwy Castle. With its imposing towers and battlements, this UNESCO World Heritage Site shows off centuries of Welsh history and is absolutely brilliant to visit. 

Adding to Conwy’s mediaeval charm is its well-preserved town wall. A stroll along these ancient fortifications is the best way to get a birds-eye view of the city and soak it all in.

Fancy checking out some quirky sights? Conwy won’t disappoint. The smallest house in Britain is a fun and kitschy find, with its bright red facade making it the perfect photo opportunity.

Are you planning your first European backpacking travel adventure? Packing for a trip can be exciting but stressful, especially if you don’t know what to bring. Whether you’re going for a week or for an entire summer, there are a few backpacking Europe essentials for your packing list. To help you get started, take a look at our backpacking Europe checklist, which will ensure you have everything you need for your trip. 

1. The Right Backpack

The right backpacking can make or break your trip. A backpack that’s too big can make traveling uncomfortable, while a backpack that’s too small won’t allow you to fit all your belongings in it. 

When backpacking Europe, you won’t want to bring a large, rolling suitcase. European cities were built before the age of elevators, which means that you’ll be walking lots of stairs. When navigating the metro, the old buildings, and the hotels, you’ll be happy to be able to take the stairs instead of lugging around an unwieldy backpack.

When it comes to essentials for your backpacking Europe packing list, it’s best to bring a carry-on sized backpack to avoid baggage fees on budget airlines. A carry-on sized backpack will also be small enough to keep nearby if you’re taking a bus or train tour in Europe.

Backpacking backpacks come in sizes based on the liter volume that they can carry. A 30-40 liter bag is comparable to a carry-on size suitcase, while a bag that’s 50-65 liters will be too big to take with you as a carry on.

Make sure you choose a bag that fits comfortably on your body. If you’re visiting a store, the employees will be more than happy to help you select a few bags that are suited to your body size. 

If you’re looking for the best backpack for backpacking Europe, the Osprey brand has some great all-rounder backpacks. Osprey is the go-to essential Europe backpacking option and fits most people comfortably. 

2. Day bag

When you’re taking a day trip or going on a hike, you won’t want to bring your huge backpack with you. Leave most of your items locked safely at your accommodation and take along a day bag. Your best bet would be to purchase a foldable daypack that can fit into your bigger backpack.

It will need to fit essentials such as money, a snack, water, and maybe a change of clothes, so it shouldn’t be too big or bulky.

3. Padlocks

Padlocks are a quick, convenient, and inexpensive way to secure your bags and hostel lockers. When assembling your backpacking Europe essentials for your packing list, a small item like this can be a lifesaver! You can also use your luggage lock on your backpack during travel days, ensuring all your belongings are safe, including your passport.

4. Universal travel adapter

Your Europe backpacking packing list should include a universal travel adapter, which will work for your phone charger or any other electronic devices. 

The outlets in continental Europe use the same 2-pronged plug, but if you’re traveling in the UK and Ireland, you’ll need a different 3-pronged system. Rather than taking multiple chargers with you, a multifunctional adapter will do. 

5. Camera

The best travel camera for backpacking europe

Your phone camera is sufficient for everyday life, but backpacking around the world is an incredible experience that you will never want to forget!

Your travel photos will prove invaluable once you return from your epic journey, so be sure to capture all the incredible things you encounter along the way. Bring a camera that not only takes great pictures but also fits easily into your backpack.

These days, the majority of cameras are equipped with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities, so they can be transmitted easily to your laptop or phone to post them online.

You may wish to bring a high-tech DSLR camera to take stunning photographs.

If you want to take your backpacking adventures to the next level, then consider bringing along a waterproof GoPro, which will accompany you everywhere from underwater adventures to skydiving during your European backpacking adventures.

6. Travel towel

Your essential backpacking Europe packing list should include a quick-drying travel towel, since you will be moving from hostel to hostel as you backpack between cities. My favorite travel towel is a Turkish towel which is quick to dry and easy to fit in your backpack. You can also use the towel as a privacy screen if you secure a bottom bunk in a hostel.

7. Power Bank

A power bank is one of the essentials on my backpacking Europe packing list, for multiple reasons. While traveling, you’ll be using your phone much more than normal – for navigation, taking photos, videos, or researching travel tips. On days like this, you’ll want to have a backup battery for your phone. 

I’ve also relied on my power bank during long travel journeys when I use my phone and want to make sure I have enough juice to find my way to the next destination.

8. Change purse

Reliance on physical money is surprisingly still pretty high throughout Europe. Plus, having lots of €1 and €2 Euro coins is a good idea if you want to leave behind tips or donate to street musicians that you’ll see on your trip. 

9. The right shoes

For your backpacking Europe packing list, don’t forget to throw in a pair of rubber sandals for the hostel showers. You should also bring a pair of comfortable but stylish walking shoes. Some nightlife spots will require a certain dress code, but you can get away with leather-style sneakers. And women can get away with stylish-looking flats that are secretly super comfortable.

10. Hostel survival kit

If you’ll be staying in hostels, don’t forget these 4 backpacking Europe essentials. We call it the hostel survival kit:

11. The Best Apps for Backpacking Europe

The Best Apps for Backpacking Europe

And lastly, before heading off for your European backpacking adventure, you should load up your phone with a few essential apps that will make backpacking Europe a breeze.

Apps to book transportation from place to place

Given the relatively compact size of Europe, you can travel between major cities by train or bus. There are a few useful apps for European transportation that can help make sure you find the best deal while sticking to your schedule.

  • Omio – compare trains, buses, and flight options in Europe and travel using mobile tickets
  • Trainline – a popular app in the UK to find train and bus tickets 
  • Flixbus – a long-distance bus company that is a favorite mode of travel for budget backpackers
  • Kiwi – a flight search comparison site that helps you find the lowest prices
  • Skyscanner – another classic flight search website that has powerful flexible search options
  • DiscoverCars – car rental search engine with direct booking to 500+ suppliers

Apps for Finding Accommodation in Europe

Apps to book discounted activities and Skip the Line tickets

Apps to stay in touch with friends and family back home

If you don’t want to change to an international mobile plan, you can use these apps over free public WiFi to stay in touch with people back home.

The number of free things to do in Wales is incredible. In fact, there are many scenic hikes, beautiful Welsh coast, and charming villages. Furthermore, your holiday in this amazing country can be really cheap if you love spending time with nature.

If you want to explore North Wales, the best airport to fly to is Liverpool. It is only 30 minutes drive from the Welsh border. However, Manchester airport is also a great choice with a 1-hour drive to Wales.

1. Climb the highest mountain in Wales

Climb Mount Snowdown - the highest mountain in Wales

Climb Mount Snowdown – the highest mountain in Wales

Snowdonia National Park is home to various landscapes and offers amazing outdoor activities. The highest mountain in Wales and its beautiful lakes make it one of the top destinations to visit in the UK. Each year more than 500,000 people reach the summit of Snowdon.

There are 7 different routes to the top of the mountain and all of them are free to explore. All you need is a bit of time (at least 6 hours) to climb Snowdon and go back. It is a perfect place for a day out with incredible views.

2. Visit amazing waterfalls

Aber Falls in Northern Wales

Aber Falls in Northern Wales

If you are looking for some of the best waterfalls in Wales, make sure to visit the northern part of the country. In North Wales, you will find incredible scenery and a lot of hidden gems. Aber Falls which is just off the A55 (North Wales Expressway) is an amazing place to explore.

There is a parking charge on most of the places in the UK, however, if you want to save some money park near Aber Falls Cafe & Butterfly Room. It takes only a 1-hour hike to get to the waterfall.

3. Relax at one of the Welsh beaches

Exploring the lighthouse near Talacre

Exploring the lighthouse near Talacre

Wales is a perfect summer destination due to the abundance of sandy beaches. Some of the best beaches in Wales include Colwyn Bay Beach or Talacre Beach. If you want to combine your visit with also exploring the lighthouse, make sure to visit Talacre.

The miles of sandy beach make it a perfect place for a picnic with the family. Your kids will love shallow waters and dog the space to run around the beach. If you stay there for a sunset, you can take some incredible photos of the lighthouse.

4. Explore Holy Island and the Isle of Anglesey

Visit historic South Stack perched atop dramatic cliffs

Visit historic South Stack perched atop dramatic cliffs

There is no better place to visit for those who want to see even more lighthouses in Wales. One of the best is located on beautiful Holy Island. South Stack is a historic building set on dramatic cliffs with views of the sea.

On the Welsh coast, you will also find a few other interesting lighthouses. Goleudy Twr Mawr and Goleudy Twr Mawr are set on a small tidal island – Ynys Llanddwyn. You can get there from Traeth Llanddwyn beach, which is also a great place to relax during summer.

5. Visit Conwy

Walk the Town Walls of Conwy

Walk the Town Walls of Conwy

One of the most charming villages in Wales is Conwy with an incredible medieval castle. You need to pay to enter the castle, however, exploring Conwy Town Walls is free. This walk around the town is one of the best free things to do in Wales.

You can also take incredible pictures of Conwy Castle from the street. The beautiful towers of the fortress from the XIII century cannot be missed when visiting Wales. There are plenty of amazing things to do in Conwy that also include relaxing at Conwy Morfa Beach.

6. Walk over the aqueduct

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct in Wales, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct in Wales, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct in Wales is an engineering masterpiece. A height of 38m and a total length of 307m offers incredible views of the country. This structure is the highest canal aqueduct in the world and is perfect to visit in the early morning when there are not many visitors. Who wouldn’t want to watch the sunrise with the views of the River view and the beautiful Welsh landscape?

Exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the best free things to do in Wales. You can walk there from Ty Mawr Country Park which takes approximately 30 minutes. In this area, you will also find another amazing tourist attraction which is Traphont Cefn Mawr Viaduct.

7. Visit one of the seven wonders of Wales

St Giles' Church in Wrexham

St Giles’ Church in Wrexham

St Giles’ Church in Wrexham is a beautiful 16th-century structure that can be seen from miles. This Grade I listed building is free to visit and its interior is very impressive. The medieval buildings in Wales are one of the greatest in Europe, so make sure to tick this off from your list.

Other seven wonders of Wales include Pistyll Rhaedr waterfall, Overton yew trees, St Winefride’s Well, Llangollen Bridge, Bells of All Saint’s Church, and Snowdon. Most of them are free to visit or with a small entry fee and parking.

8. Hike Little Orme

Little Orme with amazing views over the bays

Little Orme with amazing views over the bays

If you are looking for a place where you can spot seals, visit Little Orme. It offers amazing views of Penrhyn Bay, Porth Dyniewaid Angel Bay, and Llandudno Bay. The hike is very easy and very popular among the people that take their dogs for a walk there.

It is still an unknown tourist destination which is perfect to visit if you want to save some money on parking. You can leave your car on the street without paying any fees. After the hike, you can visit Llandudno Beach or Penhryn Bay Beach. 

Free things to do in North Wales – Insider Tips

When planning your trip to Wales, make sure to also check out some events that offer free entries to many amazing attractions. Sometimes you can visit castles for free, which usually cost at least £10.

Also, try to avoid popular destinations as there is more likely to be a fee for parking. However, you can always find a place to park a bit further and walk to the attractions. Make sure to bring with you good hiking shoes, waterproof clothes, and a good camera to take incredible photos of your journey.

If you live near Wales, you can also go on a road trip, which will offer you a scenic drive. The Welsh coast is incredible and there are many great places to stop. One of the best routes is A55 (North Wales Expressway) which will offer you an unforgettable day out in Wales.

Between travel bans, lockdown restrictions, and fears about the coronavirus, more and more travel enthusiasts have been embracing the classic staycation to soothe their wanderlust. Luckily for those living in the UK, there is so much natural beauty and historical locations for plenty of options for weekend trips from London.

Once the weather starts to warm up, avid travellers will be looking for city trips and weekend breaks around the English countryside. Recharge your batteries by visiting the old city centres, Roman-time ruins, or walking along extensive walking trails through the countryside and coastline.

1. Historical Bath – a Day Trip from London

As its name implies, a visit to Bath can be one of the most relaxing weekend trips from London – it’s only a 90-minute drive from Paddington Station. In fact, public transportation is even faster than driving, making Bath one of the best weekend trips from London by train.

Weekend Trips from London - Historic Bath

90 minutes from London, discover Historic Bath

The local hot springs that give Bath its name have fascinated the city’s people for centuries. From Roman times to the modern-day, people visit Bath for its healing powers and focus on relaxation.

There is still much evidence of Roman baths and great examples of ancient architecture. Don’t miss the Roman bath, Bath Abbey and Thermae Bath Spa.

Whether you want to spend a day in the thermal spa, or would rather explore the historic centre, Although its proximity to London makes it well-suited for a day trip, we can assure you that there is plenty to do in Bath to warrant a weekend-long city break.

2. The Lovely Lake District

The Lake District can be reached by train in just 3 hours from Euston Station in central London, making it a great choice for nature lovers who need a weekend break. You can search the Trainline to find tickets to any of the stations in the Lake District region such as Oxenholme, Windermere, or Grasmere.

UK Weekend Getaways - Lake District

Take a weekend trip in the Lake District in Northwest England

The Lake District National Park spans an area of 2,362 square kilometres and was even announced as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2017. It includes the tallest mountain in England, and the largest and deepest natural lakes in the whole country.

Outdoors and active enthusiasts will find a large network of beautiful trails and mountains. Anyone seeking to gain some elevation and stretch their hiking legs will find everything they need right here in the UK. A nice weekend break from London in the Lake District is sure to quench your thirst for more far-flung destinations like Iceland or Switzerland.

For something special, get a bird’s eye view over the region by taking a hot air balloon flight. Or, take a boat cruise on Lake Windermere. Some of the most famous British literary talents also lived in the Lakeland region, and to this day, you can still visit the homes of William Wordsworth or Beatrix Potter.

Because of its proximity to the sea, the weather in the Lake District is generally rainy. So, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the weather forecast while planning your weekend break.

3. Cotswolds: A Charming Weekend Trip from London

The Cotswolds is a large area known for its hills, medieval villages, and thatched-roof houses. The buildings in the Cotswolds are all made from local limestone, which gives them a warm honey colour.

Charming cottages in the Cotswolds

Take a relaxing weekend trip from London in the charming Cotswolds cottages

People love the Cotswolds for the abundance of walking and biking trails that pass through the quaint English villages. The best time to visit the Cotswolds is between June and August, when the lavender is in full bloom. Some say that the lavender fields in the Cotswolds can compete with the famous fields in Provence, France.

Antique shoppers love the Cotswolds for the famous Cirencester Antique and Collector’s market. Every Friday you can browse the markets and discover a large selection of antique treasures and street market stalls.

Regardless of how you spend your weekend, don’t leave Cotswold without trying the famous Cotswold cheese. It is a regional cow’s milk cheese that is flavoured with chives and onions and is made from cow’s milk.

To start your weekend trip, a take train from London’s Paddington Station. There are direct trains to various locations within the Cotswolds, such as Moretown-in-Marsh, Kemble, Stroud, or Stonehouse.



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4. Pembrokeshire – The Quintessential Seaside Weekend Break

A bit further afield, Pembrokeshire is popular among tourists from England and Wales since it has one of the most beautiful coastlines in the UK.  This region is best suited for a long weekend break from central London, as a train will take about 5 hours 30 minutes.

With historic architecture and spectacular coastline, Pembrokeshire really has something to offer everyone. This region offers excellent food and drink, beautiful beaches, and historic Victorian-era villages. One of the most popular activities in Pembrokeshire is to hike the National Park along the coast. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path makes it accessible for casual pedestrians and serious hikers alike. 

UK Weekend Trips from London - Pembrokeshire

Take in the sunset on The Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Pembrokeshire is also home to several historical architectural sites. Pembroke Castle, Carew Castle, and St. Cathedral David are the main highlights. In Pembrokeshire, there’s even “Stonehenge of Wales”, one of the best Neolithic dolmens that still exists today.

The best way to spend your weekend break in Pembrokeshire is to rent one of the available UK Holiday cottages on the weekends. These days, most cottage owners list their places on booking.com, so you can browse around to find a place that suits your needs.

5. Cornwall – Beautiful and Unique

This county in southwestern England is surrounded by water to the north, south, and east. Cornwall features a proud Celtic culture which makes it one of the best weekend trips from London. Since there is so much to do, we would recommend taking at least a whole weekend to explore all that Cornwall has to offer.

Take a stroll on Land’s End Trail, the most south-west point of England. Cornwall has more than 300 miles of walking trails along the coastline with spectacular cliffs, dunes, and medieval villages.

Cornwall England’s Land’s End Trail 

Cornwall England’s Land’s End Trail

Cornwall cannot be mentioned without thinking of specific food traditions. Maybe you just want to spend your weekend break as more of a culinary vacation, indulging in Cornwall’s gastronomic pleasures — we’re not judging! From Cornish meat pasties, Cornish Heavy Cake, saffron buns, Cornish ice cream, Cornish fudge, there is more than enough regional specialities to keep you busy! During your weekend break, you might even want to take a cooking class to learn all about how to make traditional Cornish Pasties.

One of the unique places in Cornwall is the Eden Project. This ecological park and educational project site holds the distinction of being the world’s largest indoor rainforest. The section is full of biomes that showcase a number of the most important plants in the world. At night, the biomes are illuminated with colourful light displays and the atmosphere is simply magical.

Cornwall England’s Eden Project

Cornwall England’s Eden Project



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As you can see, there is no shortage of nice weekend trips from London to make you feel a world away. If you’re looking for more things to do in the UK check out our UK Travel and Backpacking guide, where you’ll also find budgeting tips and advice for how to travel around for cheap.

If you have hopes of travelling to the United Kingdom, but are worried about accommodation costs, you may want to consider applying for jobs that offer free accommodation in exchange for work in the UK. 

There are plenty of organisations which provide you with a steady job along with safe and clean digs in various parts of England, Wales and Ireland. To help you understand more about the process, here are examples of how to work in exchange for free accommodation in the UK. 

Become a Petsitter

Become a pet sitter and get free accommodation in the UK

Combine your love of animals with your love of travel and become a Trusted Housesitter

There are plenty of people in the UK who are looking for trusted housesitters to stay at their place for free in exchange for watching their pets. For animal lovers who are responsible, reliable, and looking for a great way to travel around the UK with free accommodation, you can get started with the petsitting network, Trusted Housesitters. It’s the #1 platform where you can find tons of different options, from a chic flat in London, to a seaside countryhouse in Cornwall. A basic membership starts at just €99 for unlimited housesits worldwide, which is well-worth the cost when you think about how much accommodation in the UK can be!

Volunteer with a charity

Volunteer with an organization that offers free accommodation in exchange for work

Volunteer with an organisation that offers free accommodation in exchange for work

One of the most rewarding ways to earn your stay is by volunteering with a charity. There are various programmes that offer charity fundraiser roles that involve door-to-door charity fundraising to help fund the chosen cause. 

Companies such as Wesser provide charity fundraisers work that helps them earn £10 an hour plus commission, along with free access to shared accommodation. This typically consists of a large four to five-bedroom property with various communal living areas which cater to the staff’s every need. 

Work in hospitality

Some hospitality sectors in the UK offer free accommodation in exchange for work

Some hospitality sectors in the UK offer free accommodation in exchange for work

Another great way to earn and live while travelling in the UK is by working in the hospitality sector. This could include working in a hotel as a live-in staff member who takes on the role of a receptionist or even a hotel manager. 

In the UK, there are a variety of seaside and lake and holiday camps that hire seasonal workers in the spring and summer months. These jobs typically offer fair pay along with free accommodation in a cosy cabin or even a quirky tepee. 

Become a live-in nanny 

Become an Au Pair and get free accommodation in exchange for work

Become an Au Pair and get free accommodation in exchange for work

If you enjoy travelling and love kids, why not become a live-in nanny in the UK? There are plenty of vacancies available in this field. This will provide you with work in exchange for free accommodation which will definitely be a lavish and unique experience in the UK, as the majority of employers will be extremely wealthy. 

There are also financial benefits of becoming a nanny, as on average, they earn upwards of £350 per week. This works out a lot cheaper than rent and can also fund your meals, as you will likely be given extra pocket money for food for you and the children. You can also use the remainder of your earnings to fund the rest of your travels.  

Work on an organic farm

Work on an organic farm in the UK in exchange for free accommodation

Work on an organic farm in the UK in exchange for free accommodation

If your dream is to travel and stay in picturesque locations, you should consider volunteering on an organic farm. This will involve living and working in the farm, where you will get involved in jobs such as picking grapes or even milking a cow or two. 

One of the most popular organisations is WWOOF – World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, which offers global opportunities for like-minded people looking to work, stay and learn all about farm life. Workaway is another great company which allows travellers to find free accommodation in exchange for farm work, while also offering the freedom of travelling like a local.


Now you have all the information you need regarding work in exchange for free accommodation in the UK, have you decided which route is right for you? Whatever you choose, it is important that you first check your visa eligibility to ensure you can legally work in the UK. 

It is also vital that you thoroughly research the company you are planning to work for by looking at reviews and asking around for personal recommendations. This will ensure that your experience will be completely legal, safe and enjoyable.