In need of a break far from the city? The good thing about Britain is that there are plenty of places to escape from your busy routine and privilege birdsong over the endless traffic. And they’re sometimes nearer than you think! If you’re visiting the UK for the first time, a day tour from London in the British countryside can be the perfect addition after touring the capital.
From Wales to Scotland to the Lake District, we handpicked a selection of calm and quiet places that should help recharge your batteries over a weekend – so grab your best travel outfits and get away from the big city life!
Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is the most unspoiled region of the UK and looks like a postcard. Boasting natural beauty with its charming limestone villages, it has plenty of flourishing gardens and historic castles. Many relaxing activities are available there such as cycling, hiking or golfing, or you can solely take your time and enjoy the gorgeous surroundings. Take a look at the villages you can visit on our day tour – like Castle Combe, Stanton or Blockley.
Devon
With its shiny coast and lush countryside, the region of Devon is probably one of the most relaxing places to visit in the UK. Many resorts are available for you to enjoy a well-being retreat and Devon has the perfect background to immerse yourself in, whatever you find relaxing. Choose either Dartmoor National Park, a place to recharge and meditate, or Soar Mill Cove to get some refreshing sea breeze, amongst other outstanding sites.
Lake District, Cumbria
Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, many villages there will help you unwind, like Watermillock, with its breathtaking scenery, or Bowness-on-Windermere, a very quiet spot for those looking to cut from noisy city backgrounds. A great walk to try is in Haweswater, an Easter Lake District reservoir where you’ll only find one hotel and car park.
Isle of Iona, Scotland
Counting 177 habitants, Iona is a ferry away from the village of Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull in Scotland and has been a pilgrimage centre throughout history. Made of charming stone-built cottages, it attracts visitors from around the world every year with its few historical sites and buildings, such as Columba’s Monastery or The Benedictine Abbey. This tiny island is perfect for a quiet getaway because it is remote, and there are only a few essential shops to enjoy there amongst some cute craft shops and delicious eateries.
Pembrokeshire, Wales
This region of Wales is stunning and there are various places to choose from for a relaxing getaway. Twenty-five minutes from Pembroke, Green Bridge is a hidden natural gem not to miss, especially to watch the sunset. Another one to possibly visit is Broadheaven Beach, if the weather permits, where you can lie down and reflect upon the calming wave sounds.
Peak District
If you’re up for some hiking adventure in green valleys and landscapes, you should try Peak District. A treasure for wildlife, Shipley Country Park can be a good start as it offers plenty of trails for hike lovers and cute lakes – the Shipley Estate used to be a manor that belonged to the nephew of William the Conqueror. With some of the most beautiful waterways, Peak Forest Canal runs alongside River Goyt and at its end, you can admire Whaley Bridge.
The Highlands, Scotland
The Highlands’ dramatic landscapes, cliffs and wilderness will satisfy anyone looking for a real change. Fort William is the place for outdoors lovers, mountain bikers and hikers who want to enjoy beautiful surroundings and wild nature. And you can visit it on our three-day tour from London!
Isle of Skye
Known as the “land of the fairies”, the Isle of Skye is internationally known for its rock formations, mysterious beaches and hills and is a fascinating place to explore. Probably one of the most magical places on earth, Fairy Pools is located five and a half miles from the village of Carbost, where you can admire waterfalls and aqua-blue pools along the river Brittle.
There’s always a way to flee the busy London life, whether you’re keen to chill in the middle of the countryside or hike the British nature landscapes. Have a look at our private chauffeured tours from London to find what suits you the most to find your perfect relaxing getaway.
