London is the most popular destination tourists head to when they’re visiting England. However, did you know there’s plenty of great places to visit just outside the capital too?
Here, we’ll look at some of the best places to visit just outside London you’ll definitely want to consider.
The Surrey Hills
Why not take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and travel to the nearby Surrey Hills. Listed as one of the top destinations to visit outside of London, here you’ll find a staggering 163 square miles of grassy slopes, peaks and pastures to be explored.
Since 1958, the area has been given the protected status of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can take a hike up to the bluff, which reaches 735 feet high. This is the best place to head to if you’re looking for peace and tranquillity.
Bletchley
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Another place you’ll want to consider heading to is Bletchley. Here you’ll get to visit the historic Bletchley Park, once home to British codebreakers. The Heritage attraction situated in Milton Keynes is open 362 days a year and it frequently hosts events and workshops you can partake in.
Take your time exploring the beautiful mansion, the codebreaker huts and the National Radio Centre. There is also a museum the whole family can enjoy. You can easily catch a train travelling to Bletchley from London.
Another part of Surrey worth heading to is East Moseley. Here, you’ll find one of the most impressive royal palaces, Hampton Court. This huge building is situated on the north bank of the Thames, taking just 45 minutes to get to from Victoria.
Parts of the palace date back to when Henry VIII ruled, and it was home to five of his six wives. Today, it is said to be haunted by two of his wives making it an ideal attraction for those who love haunted buildings.
Southend
If you’re looking to enjoy a traditional English seaside break, Southend is an ideal option. Situated near Essex, you can expect an old-fashioned seaside town experience here. The Southend Pier is known to be the longest in the world and there’s even an Adventure Island theme park which the whole family will enjoy.
It takes less than an hour to get here from Fenchurch Street in London. So, you won’t have to travel too far to enjoy a seaside escape.
As you can see, there are lots of great places just outside of London worth a visit. Whether you’re looking for a trip to the seaside, or you’d prefer to get away from it all in the tranquil countryside, you’ll find a destination above to match your preferences.
