April travel- Day trip recommendations
April Travel: Day Trip Suggestions Needed!
I’m heading to London with four friends in late April for the marathon. We’re a group of women in our late thirties and early forties (SINK) and are eager to explore some fantastic day trip options.
I’ve come across numerous recommendations in this group, but I’d love your input to help us narrow things down considering the time of year.
Here are some places we’ve been thinking about:
- Cambridge
- Oxford
- Brighton
- Bath
- Windsor
- Kent
- Stonehenge
- Paris
Thanks in advance for your help!
Edit: We’re traveling from NYC, so we’re seeking a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of London. Ideally, we’d like somewhere quiet and quaint, rich in interesting architecture and history. Our day trip will be on a Monday.
That sounds like an exciting trip! Given your preferences for something quiet and quaint with interesting architecture and history, here are some thoughts on your options:
Bath: This city is known for its Roman baths and stunning Georgian architecture. The thermal springs, the beautiful Bath Abbey, and the Pulteney Bridge make for a lovely day of exploring. The city has a relaxed vibe, and you can easily stroll around and enjoy the sights.
Cambridge: This city is picturesque and filled with stunning university buildings. You can go punting on the River Cam, visit the various colleges (like King’s College Chapel), and explore the lovely parks. It has a nice mix of history and a vibrant student atmosphere.
Oxford: Similar to Cambridge, Oxford is rich in history and has beautiful architecture. You can visit the Ashmolean Museum, take a walking tour of the university, and enjoy the many quaint cafes and shops. It’s a bit busier than Bath but still has plenty of charm.
Brighton: If you’re looking for something by the sea, Brighton offers a lively beachfront, the eccentric Royal Pavilion, and plenty of shops. While it might be more bustling than quaint, the artistic atmosphere and ocean view could be refreshing.
Windsor: If you’re interested in royal history, Windsor offers the stunning Windsor Castle and lovely parks. It’s a charming town with plenty of quaint shops and places to eat. It’s very accessible from London as well.
Kent: You could consider the charming towns of Canterbury or Whitstable. Canterbury has a fantastic cathedral and a rich history, while Whitstable offers a lovely coastal vibe and fresh seafood.
Stonehenge: While it’s iconic, the site is somewhat isolated, and you may find it less of a quaint experience. However, if you’re interested in prehistoric history, it could be fascinating, but don’t forget to check how much time you’ll need for transit and exploring.
Paris: While Paris is amazing, it may not provide the quiet, quaint experience you’re looking for in just a day trip from London. The travel time could cut into your day.
Based on your desire for a change of pace and the criteria you mentioned, I’d recommend Bath or Cambridge as your top choices for a lovely, history-filled day trip. Enjoy the marathon and your travels!