If you’re looking to plan a staycation or you’re visiting the UK from another country, it’s important to note that there are plenty of things to do! What is beyond the city limits? Just a short drive out of London you will find a beautiful country. The history is more fascinating than ever, the pubs are amazingly ancient, and the castles are impressive. You’ll find an abundance of restaurants, old historical sites of the National Trust and museums. You can also find the ultimate list of Open Air Museums. Here are some places to put on your UK travel list.
Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle is spread over two small islands and is located in the heart of a pastoral lake. There you will find waterfalls overflowing and swans sailing peacefully. Although the castle’s past is not particularly magnificent the castle is considered one of the most visited sites in the London area. It is also a particularly fascinating point of interest for young and old alike. Henry VIII, King of England, immediately fell in love with the place and decided to turn it into a magnificent castle. Today you can take a tour of the magnificent rooms and halls, as well as visit the magnificent gardens that surround the castle and the fascinating maze of shrubs originally created to entertain the palace guests.
Windsor
One of the most famous castles in the world is Windsor Castle, located in the town of Windsor near London. The magnificent and ancient castle began as a fortress and over the years was also used as a palace and prison. Today it is the official residence of the Queen of England. The 900-year-old castle includes: 1,000 rooms, some of which you can tour during a visit to the castle and observe their special art treasures – Queen Mary’s Dollhouse, St. George’s Chapel decorated in the best Gothic architecture and the Queen’s Exchange ceremony.
But apart from visiting the castle, the town of Windsor has a lot more to offer. Take a stroll along the Thames, visit the large park with hiking trails, a lake and beautiful gardens or just wander the ancient streets of the town.
Oxford
The beautiful city of Oxford is one of the most popular attractions for day trips from London. Mainly thanks to the old university located in the oldest city in the English-speaking world. Oxford University has maintained its prestigious status for centuries, beginning in the 11th century (when it was founded) and within its walls many kings and prime ministers acquired their education.
Henley on Thames
The quaint little town is forty minutes drive from central London and is the perfect destination for a day trip out of town. Henley-on-Thames is characterised by a quiet and relaxed atmosphere and its highlight undoubtedly lies in its impressive architectural structures. Throughout the town you will be impressed by over 300 preserved historic houses, as well as tea houses, cafes, small boutique shops and second-hand shops with ancient history.
