7 Best Family Weekend Breaks Near London

As travel restrictions ease, domestic travel is back on the cards. For those seeking a quick weekend getaway, here are 7 destinations close to London for you to shake off the cabin fever and stretch your legs this summer. From the sandy beaches of Bournemouth to the idyllic Cotswolds countryside, there’s bound to be something for the whole family.

This tranquil village offers some of the best views in the English countryside. Enjoy a scrumptious home-cooked breakfast at the Holly House B&B, before getting lost with the kids in the Dragonfly Maze. Drop by the Rose Tree Restaurant for an outdoor lunch by the river, before learning more about our feathered friends over at the Birdland. For the lager-loving dads, the Cotswold Brewing Company offers a good excuse to sample a quick pint while introducing the kids to the art of brewing. Fancy a lazier weekend? Escape the crowds and tuck into a quiche or two over at the Bakery on the Water.

Pack your beach towels and escape the hustle and bustle of London for sunny and cheerful Brighton. Book a stay at A Room With A View, which overlooks the ever-lively Brighton Beach. Get your tan on at Brighton Beach, or relive your childhood days with the kids at the penny arcades of Brighton Palace Pier. For those craving a little more exercise, the Cycling Tour of Brighton City is a great way to work your core muscles while expanding your knowledge on the iconic landmarks of Brighton. End your getaway on a high with sizzling steak and cocktails at the Baqueano, or head down to A Taste of Sahara to get your African/Middle Eastern fix of piping hot chicken tagine and shish kebab.

Beyond its architecturally exquisite set of 31 historic colleges, Cambridge boasts sparse and picturesque greens, making it the ultimate destination for nature and history lovers alike. Check in to the Worth House, which exudes a Victorian allure and offers a hearty breakfast spread to match, before spending a lazy afternoon punting along the River Cam. Entertain the kids while bringing out the ’80s kid in you at the Centre for Computing History, which offers an interactive display of home consoles dating back to the early ’60s. Alternatively, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden offers a lovely respite from the bustle of the city center. Afterwards, enjoy a virtuous meal at Doppleganger Burger, or sample one of the best coffees in the heart of the city center at Bould Brothers Coffee.

With its iconic Georgian architecture and cobblestone streets, it’s not hard to see why hordes of travellers continue to flock to Bath every summer. Begin your summer staycation at the cosy Bathen House Boutique Hotel, before soaking in the sunshine aboard the Avon River Cruise. Step back in time with a visit to the Roman Baths, one of the world’s best preserved Roman bathhouses, before popping by the Thoughtful Bakery, known for their delectable sourdough loaf and pastries. For a unique dining experience, head to the Menu Gordon Jones, which offers sublime dishes with clever wine pairings (and a lovely strawberries and cream dessert which the kids will love). For some much-needed laughs, the Krowd Keepers offers a fantastic mix of comedy, quips and magic tricks, which will be sure to tickle your funny bone.

Beach lovers will find Bournemouth to be a real treat with its collection of sprawling beaches and scenic coastal trails. Forget your troubles on the powdery soft sands of Bournemouth Beach, or treat yourself to a lovely view of the Isle of Wight and Christchurch over at Hengistbury Head Beach. Spend an afternoon channeling your inner archaeologist fossil hunting with the kids along the Jurassic Coast, or learn more about the rich diversity of marine life the underwater world has to offer at the Oceanarium. Tantalise your taste buds with the best burgers in Bournemouth at the Moose Kitchen, or tuck into a feast of oysters and scallops over at the Sobo Fish. For families looking to spend the night in Bournemouth, the Green House offers stylish and luxurious suites a short distance away from the seafront.

UK’s happiest city offers a relaxed and multicultural vibe for families seeking a brief respite from the fast-paced living in London. The Bristol offers a convenient base for exploring the city, sporting a relaxing view of the harbour, and a short walk away from We The Curious. History buffs will love the attention to detail on the world’s first great ocean liner at Brunel's SS Great Britain. Stop by at The Crepe and Coffee Cabin - those with a sweet tooth will definitely appreciate the variety of crepes on the menu. For a memorable evening, head to Mugshot Restaurants and try your hand at searing your own steak over a hot stone, before catching a magic show at the Smoke and Mirrors, which is bound to get the whole family rolling with laughter.

Tucked away in the agricultural capital of Kent, the vibrant town of Maidstone offers a taste of country life for city dwellers looking for a quick getaway. Families will appreciate a tranquil stay at The Black Horse Inn, which also serves hearty pub-style grub for hungry travellers. Plan a visit to Leeds Castle for a relaxing afternoon - its lush, green parkland is ideal for picnics. Otherwise, get up close and personal with a variety of beautiful owls at the Kent Owl Academy, where the kids can try their hand at flying a barn owl. Wind down with a gorgeous afternoon tea (and mini hot chocolate for the kids) at The Bow Window Café, or spend an evening feeding the ducks at the Mote Park.

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