Day trip from London in early April- Hampton Palace Court or Oxford?
We’re planning a day trip from London in early April and need your input—should we visit Hampton Court Palace with a dinner stop in Richmond or Kingston, or head to Oxford instead? My husband and I will be in London during the first week of April and we’re eager to escape the city for a day. We both have a passion for history and often enjoy walking tours wherever we go.
Oxford is appealing for its literary history and beautiful architecture, so we’re considering a guided tour of the university and the town. On the other hand, I have a strong interest in Tudor history (recently finished “Wolf Hall,” haha), which makes Hampton Court Palace an enticing option.
Any advice to help us choose would be greatly appreciated! Also, if you have specific recommendations for activities or dining in either area, we’d love to hear them. Thanks!
Both Hampton Court Palace and Oxford offer unique experiences, especially given your interests in history and literature. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Hampton Court Palace:
– Historical Significance: This remarkable Tudor palace was famously home to King Henry VIII. It’s steeped in Tudor history, making it a fantastic option given your interest in that period. You can explore the stunning gardens, maze, and the extensive interiors that reflect the opulence of the Tudor court.
– Accessibility: It’s only about a 30-40 minute train ride from central London, making it a convenient option for a day trip.
– Dining Options: Richmond and Kingston both offer lovely dining options along the river, with Richmond known for its scenic parks and Kingston for its vibrant atmosphere. You might enjoy a riverside pub for dinner after your palace visit.
Oxford:
– Academic and Literary Heritage: Oxford is rich in literary history, being associated with authors like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. The architectural beauty of the university, combined with its libraries and museums, makes it a perfect spot for history buffs.
– Walking Tours: You mentioned you enjoy history walking tours, and Oxford has many excellent guided tours focusing on its history, famous alumni, and stunning architecture, including iconic colleges like Christ Church and Magdalen.
– Distance: Oxford is about an hour from London by train, which is still manageable for a day trip but will give you a bit more travel time compared to Hampton Court.
Conclusion:
– If Tudor history and the allure of a royal palace are what excites you most, Hampton Court Palace would be the ideal choice.
– However, if you’re interested in a mix of academic history, literature, and stunning architecture, then Oxford might be the better option.
Recommendations:
– If you choose Hampton Court, consider visiting the gardens and possibly trying to catch a guided tour of the palace. For dinner, both Richmond and Kingston have charming riverside restaurants; perhaps look for a traditional pub.
– If you opt for Oxford, be sure to book a walking tour in advance for a deeper dive into the university’s history. After your tour, take some time to stroll along the beautiful streets and maybe visit the Bodleian Library or the Ashmolean Museum.
Whichever you choose, I’m sure you’ll have a fantastic day out!